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VOL 22, No. 1144
September 2, 2016
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INDIA, U.S. TO SHARE MILITARY BASES Parrikar, Carter sign pact in Washington
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WASHINGTON: India and the US have signed an important agreement that will make the two nations logistical allies and enable both the militaries to use each other's assets and bases for repair and replenishment of supplies. Welcoming the signing of the bilateral 'Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement' (LEMOA), Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar and US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said the pact will facilitate opportunities for "practical engagement and exchange". LEMOA facilitates the provision of logistical support, supplies, and services between the US and Indian militaries on a reimbursable basis, and provides a framework to govern them.
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Mr Carter said the agreement would make joint operations between their militaries logistically easier and more efficient. Both he and Defense Minister Parrikar stressed that the new agreement does not allow for US bases to be set up on Indian soil nor for troops to be stationed there. "They agreed on the importance (that) this framework will provide to facilitate innovative and advanced opportunities in defense technology and trade cooperation. To this end, the US has agreed to elevate defense trade and technology sharing with India to a level commensurate with its closest allies and partners," said a joint statement after the pact was signed.
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t's a bit early, but here's wishing us all a very happy Diwali. What gives, you ask? Well, if you haven't already heard from the delirious Indian American Diwali stamp activists, 15 years of sustained advocacy, tens of thousands of letters, emails and phone calls to lawmakers and other concerned authorities later, the US Postal Service announced last week that it will be launching the commemorative Diwali stamp this October. As simple a recognition as it may seem, it is really big on symbolism, one that accords honor and acceptance to nearly three million Indian Americans and more so to Hinduism as one of the largest practiced religions in the world. What it also underscores is the considerable presence of Hindus in the United States, as also the strength of their collective activism. The issuance of these tiny goodwill ambassadors brings Diwali alongside Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Eid, Lunar New Year, and of course Christmas; and brings the US alongside countries like Canada, England, Israel, Singapore, South Africa, Malaysia, Indonesia and Trinidad which already have stamps to commemorate this joyous Hindu festival of lights. Like I said before, the process hasn't been easy for the Indian American community as well as for the postal department, which receives approximately 40,000 suggestions for stamp ideas each year from the general public. While lauding the efforts of Dr. Shailendra Kumar who started the whole movement for the issuance of the Diwali stamp, the scores of Indian American advocacy groups like the Hindu American Foundation, the US Senate and Congress, lawmakers Maloney, Meng and Gabbard among them, and every individual who wrote in or called in to push Diwali into the roster of American holidays, let's also give the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee its due for routinely reviewing the 40,000 stamp subjects and managing to select 25 of the best for the Postmaster General's approval each year. In 2009 Barack Obama became the first American President to light the festive diya to the chanting of Sanskrit prayers in the White House. And now again, the US has lit up its rich diversity with the issuance of this 'forever' stamp. God Bless America.
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Immigration: Trump softening? Presidential nominee Donald Trump with his ``fair, but firm'' new line on immigration seems to be softening his approach
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Scramjet test Joining a select club of nations, India has successfully test fired its futuristic Scramjet Rocket Engine
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India, US to share military bases Parrikar, Carter sign pact in Washington WASHINGTON: India and the US have signed an important agreement that will make the two nations logistical allies and enable both the militaries to use each other's assets and bases for repair and replenishment of supplies. Welcoming the signing of the bilateral 'Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement' (LEMOA), Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar and US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said the pact will facilitate opportunities for "practical engagement and exchange". LEMOA facilitates the provision of logistical support, supplies, and services between the US and Indian militaries on a reimbursable basis, and provides a framework to govern them. Mr Carter said the agreement would make joint operations between their militaries logistically easier and more efficient. Both he and Defense Minister Parrikar stressed that the new agreement does not allow for US bases to be set up on Indian soil nor for troops to be stationed there. "They agreed on the importance (that) this framework will provide to facilitate innovative and advanced opportunities in defense technology and trade cooperation. To this end, the US has agreed to elevate defense trade and technology sharing with India to a level commensurate with its closest allies and partners," said a joint statement after the pact was signed.
Defense Secretary Ash Carter, right, and Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar render honors after laying a wreath at the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, August 29
According to the statement, the defense ties between the two countries is based on their "shared values and interests," and their "abiding commitment to global peace and security." During their meeting, Parrikar and Carter discussed the "wealth of progress" in bilateral cooperation and deepening strategic partnership between the United States and India. The US has agreed to elevate defense trade and technology sharing with India to a level commensurate with its closest allies
and partners. The visit their sixth official interaction to date demonstrates the importance both sides place on strengthening defense ties across many areas: from strategic and regional cooperation, to deepened military-to-military exchanges, to expanded collaboration on defense technology and innovation, it said. Welcoming India's membership in the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), Carter reaffirmed US support for India's membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
Acknowledging India's positive contributions to regional security and stability, including in matters beyond the maritime space, Carter and Parrikar announced their agreement to further consultations in the area, including through the next Maritime Security Dialogue, scheduled later this year. Earlier, Parrikar was accorded an enhanced honor cordon by Carter after he arrived at the Pentagon here. The enhanced honor is reserved for valued guests. During
'Logistic pact no agreement to set up bases' WASHINGTON: The defense pact signed by India and the US facilitating logistical support between the two militaries is not an agreement to set up bases, Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar and his US counterpart Ashton Carter have said. Parrikar and Carter were referring to the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) that was signed by the two countries after more than a decade of discussion. "There is no provision for any base or any sort of activities to set up a base in India," Parrikar told reporters at a joint news conference with Carter after the two leaders held talks at the Pentagon. LEMOA facilitates the provision of logistical support, sup-
plies, and services between the US and Indian militaries on a reimbursable basis, and provides a framework to govern them. This may include food, water, billeting, transportation, petroleum, oils, lubricants, clothing, medical
port to each other's fleet, like supply of fuel, supply of many other things which are required for joint operations, humanitarian assistance and many other relief operations. "So, it basically will ensure that
It basically will ensure that both navies can be supportive of each other in the joint venture operations we do, exercises we do," Parrikar told reporters in response to a question services, spare parts and components, repair and maintenance services, training services, and other logistical items and services. "It (LEMOA) doesn't have anything to do with the setting up of base. It's basically logistics sup-
both navies can be supportive of each other in the joint venture operations we do, exercises we do," Parrikar told reporters in response to a question. LEMOA is a very substantial enabler of the two countries to
work together, the US Defense Secretary said. "What it does is make possible and make easier operating together when we choose to. It doesn't by itself - those agreements - those are the things that the two governments would have to agree on a case by case basis. But when they do agree, this is an agreement that makes it all go so much more smoothly and efficiently," Carter explained. "It is fully mutual. In other words, we grant one another completely equal access and ease under this agreement. It's not a basing agreement of any kind, but it does make the logistics of joint operations so much easier and so much more efficient," he said.-PTI
normal cordon, visitors are greeted at the Pentagon stairs and welcomed with handshakes, before proceeding inside. During the enhanced honor cordon, national anthems are played. Parrikar, accompanied by Carter, also laid a wreath at the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial. Carter and Parrikar noted the recent official exchanges, including the visit to New Delhi of General John Nicholson for consultations on Afghanistan, as well as by the Secretary of the US Navy and the Secretary of the US Air Force this month. They welcomed the progress achieved under the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) so far. In Delhi in July this year, India and the US decided to broaden its agenda by setting up five joint working groups on naval systems, air systems, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, chemical and biological protection, and other systems. The two leaders noted the signing of an information exchange annex under the framework of the Aircraft Carrier Joint Working Group. Carter and Parrikar agreed to continue their close consultation on 'Make in India' proposals and praised the discussions at the inaugural Maritime Security Dialogue held in May. They welcomed the conclusion of the bilateral 'White Shipping' technical arrangement for data sharing on commercial shipping traffic and also discussed cooperation on capabilities to augment India's capacity for maritime domain awareness (MDA). Welcoming the continued efforts by the militaries of the two countries to deepen bilateral cooperation and expand opportunities for greater collaboration, the two leaders commended the recent completion of the Malabar naval exercise with Japan and India's participation in the Rim-ofthe-Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in Hawaii, as well as the Red Flag Air Force Exercise in Alaska. They were encouraged by increased complexity in the 'Yudh Abhyas' Army exercise scheduled in September in India. The two leaders agreed to facilitate greater and regular interactions to deepen mutual understanding between military services and promote practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, special operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. -PTI
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Countering terrorism shared objective: Parrikar WASHINGTON: Countering terrorism is an important objective shared by India and the United States, Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar said here, while appreciating American support in India's efforts to eliminate extremism in its neighborhood. "We resolved to continue our cooperation on counter-terrorism. Our open and diverse societies are committed to peace. However, as the United States has shown, there can be no compromise when we are faced with terrorism," Parrikar said at a joint news conference with US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. "The forces that seek to undermine our progress and our ways of life require our comprehensive and robust response. We appreciate the support from United States in our efforts to eliminate terrorism in India's neighborhood," Parrikar said.
US Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter (L) and India's Minister of Defence Manohar Parrikar attend a press conference at the Pentagon on August 29 in Washington
"Secretary Carter and I agreed that countering terrorism is an important shared objective. The
partnership between India and the United States is driven by our shared values and interests.
China media says alliance irksome BEIJING: Attempts by India to join US' alliance could "irritate" China, Pakistan or even Russia and bring "strategic troubles" to New Delhi while making it a centre of geopolitical rivalries in Asia, China's state-run media has commented. In an editorial written ahead of Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar and US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter signing a logistics agreement, state-run Global Times said India may lose strategic independence if it leans towards the US. The Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) allows India and US
militaries to access each other's military facilities for refueling and replenishment. "This is undoubtedly a leap forward in US-India military cooperation. US media highly applauded this deal, with Forbes hailing it as a 'war pact' and believing that India is shifting away from Russia, its Cold War ally, toward a new alliance with the US," the editorial said. "If India hastily joins the US alliance system, it may irritate China, Pakistan or even Russia. It may not make India feel safer, but will bring strategic troubles to itself and make itself a centre of geopolitical rivalries in Asia," it
'India, US partners in promoting peace' WASHINGTON: Confident of further advancement of partnership between India and the US, a top official of the Obama administration has said every future US government should continue with the joint strategic vision of the two countries being "indispensable partners in promoting peace, prosperity and stability in the region". Jeff Zients, Director of the National Economic Council, said the US-India partnership has never
been stronger but the two countries still need to do much better given the size of their economies. "With President (Barack) Obama's visit to India during India s Republic Day celebration and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi's visit to the White House last June and historic address in Congress, it is easy to see the strong friendship between our two countries. Cont’d on page 9
said. "India holds dear its independence and sovereignty after squeezing out of the UK's colonialism. It views itself as a major power and is developing on the wave of the emerging countries," the editorial said. While India has adopted a prudent attitude so far refraining from joining US alliance, some defense analysts expressed worries that India may lose strategic independence and warned that the pact may render New Delhi a "follower" of Washington, it said. Observing that India attaches high importance to national security, the editorial said, "It feels it is an urgent task because its defense levels are a necessary condition of being a major power, rather than out of a sense of crisis that requires an intimacy to the US." Due to its non-alignment policy, India has been given attention from all the major powers such as the US, Japan, China and Russia in recent years, it noted. "However, in recent years, Washington has deliberately wooed New Delhi to become its quasi ally so as to impose geopolitical pressure on China. It is possible that the (Narendra) Modi administration is trying an unconventional way to lean toward the US with the logistics agreement," the editorial said. -PTI
This was underlined by the enthusiasm of the US Congress with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June this year," Parrikar said. Responding to a question, Carter said that not only Indian civilians but its military also has been a victim of terrorism, in an apparent reference to the terrorist attack on Pathankot military base, carried out by Pakistani intruders. "Terrorism is one of the many missions on which we cooperate...We oppose terrorism affecting anyone and us. That's certainly true with respect to terrorist acts perpetrated against the Indian people, and also I should mention the Indian military, which has happened as well. And this gives new scope for that, as well," Carter said. As per a joint statement issued after the meeting between
the two leaders, they agreed to facilitate greater and regular interactions to deepen mutual understanding between military services and promote practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, special operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. "We and India share the principled view that in matters of freedom of the seas and freedom of the commons and freedom of navigation, as in so many other matters, States need to take a principled view where abiding by the rule of law and pursuing disputes peacefully is fundamental. We are able to operate together," Carter said. During the meeting Carter and Parrikar praised the discussions at the inaugural Maritime Security Dialogue held in May. They welcomed the conclusion of the bilateral 'White Shipping' technical arrangement for data sharing on commercial shipping traffic. They also discussed cooperation on capabilities to augment India's capacity for maritime domain awareness (MDA). Acknowledging India's positive contributions to regional security and stability, including in matters beyond the maritime space, Carter and Parrikar announced their agreement to take forward consultations in this area, including through the next Maritime Security Dialogue, which will be held later this year. They noted recent high-level official exchanges, including the visit of Gen John Nicholson to New Delhi for consultations on Afghanistan, as well as by the secretary of the US Navy and the secretary of the US Air Force earlier this month, the joint statement said. -PTI
'In Kashmir, small group holding all to ransom' WASHINGTON: Alleging that forces across the border are fomenting trouble in violencehit Kashmir, Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar has said that "a small percentage" of people in the Valley are holding the majority to ransom. He said the government is working "proactively" in handling the violence in the state. "As far as Kashmir is concerned, the Indian Government has been very proactive in handling the violence which comes from across the border" Parrikar
told Pentagon reporters at a joint news conference with US Defense Secretary, Ashton Carter. "A few small percentage is holding the majority to ransom," he added. Asked about the current situation in Kashmir, he said curfew has already been lifted and an all-party delegation is also heading to the Valley. "Kashmir is actually having a government which is a democratically elected. And the chief minister belongs to the Valley," he said. -PTI
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US announces issuance of Diwali stamp SURENDRA ULLAL
It was a singular honor for Indian Americans at large in this country when the United States Postal Service(USPS) announcedthat it would issue a Diwali stamp for 2016. The Forever stamp will be released on October 5, twenty five days ahead of the Hindu holiday. The stamp displays a single lit clay lamp, or diya, against a colorful backdrop showcasing the most iconic symbol of the holiday. The USPS decision follows a petition from more than 100 community organizations urging the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee. The move was initiated by a letter co-led by Hindu American Foundation and Indian Diaspora, This was followed by an advocacy day organized by HAF and a Congressional Diwali celebration at the Library of Congress. In turn, this galvanized support from members of the House and Senate for bipartisan resolutions in their respective chambers in honor of a long standing community request for an official Diwali stamp. Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), in particular, championed this cause for many years. Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and John Cornyn (R-TX) and House members Joe Crowley (D-NY), Ed Royce (R-CA) Ami Bera (D-
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard congratulates everyone
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ongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), the only Hindu member of Congress, has congratulated everyone on the occasion of Diwali stamp issuance. In a message, she said, "Congratulations and thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to get the Diwali stamp approved in the U.S.! The U.S. Postal Service will commemorate the joyous Hindu festival of Diwali with a Forever stamp on Wednesday, October 5th, at a dedication ceremony which will take place at the Indian Embassy in New York City. This has been a long and arduous process but this act by the U.S. Postal Service to recognize Congresswoman Tulsi this special day and to further inGabbard crease and enrich our nation's tapestry of religious and cultural diversity will be greatly appreciated by many."
Rajnikanth's daughter given UN post CHENNAI: Noted filmmaker and actor Rajinikanth's daughter Aishwaryaa has been appointed UN Women's Advocate for Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment in India. Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth Dhanush's appointment was announced by Lakshmi Puri, UN Assistant Secretary General and UN Women Deputy Executive Director. "Aishwaryaa will help raise awareness of UN Women's core message of gender equality and women's empowerment across India, boosting the organization's efforts to close the gender gap and achieve a more equal world - a Planet 50-50, by the year Aishwaryaa 2030," a release here said. Rajinikanth Dhanush Puri was quoted as saying that Aishwaryaa, also a dancer, "inspires confidence in young women and girls across South India and beyond". On her part, Aishwaryaa said it would be an 'honor' to serve as UN Advocate for Women's Empowerment. Rajnikanth was quoted as saying that he was "proud and delighted" to see his daughter being associated with the UN.-PTI
CA), and George Holding (R-NC), all past or present co-chairs of their chamber's India Caucuses, also led significant campaigns to assure Congressional support for this measure. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (DHI), the only Hindu member of Congress, led the most recent write in campaign to the Picture of stamp
USPS with hundreds of signatories. "HAF is proud to have been a part of what truly was a grassroots community effort," said Suhag A. Shukla, HAF Executive Director and Legal Counsel. "The issuance of the Diwali stamp symbolizes several important things: it displays the strength of the Hindu American community when we unite behind a cause; it celebrates the contributions of our community to America; and most importantly, it acknowledges the strength our country draws from its diversity. This year and for many more, diyas and spirits will shine brighter, as will greetings cards and gift packages sent donning the Diwali stamp."
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Kerry & Swaraj discuss counter terrorism NEW DELHI: India and the US discussed terrorism emanating from Pakistan and other issues of
tegic and Commercial Dialogue (S&CD), co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj shakes hands with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry at a meeting in New Delhi on September 30
strategic importance as well as of commercial interest with New Delhi asserting that there was a "scope to do a lot more" in the area of counter-terrorism. During the 2nd India-US Stra-
and Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman along with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker in New Delhi, the two sides also discussed ways to en-
hance cooperation in key areas of energy and trade and business. The co-chairs were accompanied by high-level inter-agency delegations. In her initial remarks, Ms. Swaraj stressed on the need to enhance cooperation in counterterrorism, saying "There is a scope to do a lot more." Apart from bilateral issues, substantive discussions were held on important regional and global developments including the security situation. She also stressed on need to take care of "aspirations and interests" of companies while enhancing bilateral commercial ties. On his part, Mr. Kerry noted that the two countries have deepened their cooperation in defense, energy and cyber security. The US was looking forward to finalize a cyber framework that will help the two countries protect from new global cyber threats, he said. He said the US would want its civil nuclear cooperation with India to take shape in setting up of reactors that deliver reliable electricity to Indian households. On the commercial front, ease of doing business and visa regimes were among other aspects of trade ties taken up. The twoway trade between the countries stood at about $109 billion in 2015. Ms. Swaraj said in view of the rapidly evolving regional and global situation, India looks forward to resuming the meeting of the Trilateral with Afghanistan; consultations on Africa and on multilateral issues within this year.
Asserting that India's enhanced global role was in mutual interest, she said, "It is in this context, we look forward to continue working closely with the US to secure our membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group and permanent membership of the U.N. Security Council." She also pitched for expansion of defense cooperation to the next stage of co-production and codevelopment. "For this, we need to define the benefits associated with India's designation as a 'Major Defense Partner' of the US during Prime
people-to-people exchanges, which was a vital source of strength for our relationship". Asserting that India attaches high importance to the Dialogue, Ms. Swaraj said it develops greater synergy and coherence in the engagements across the spectrum. Reiterating India's commitment for implementation of the Paris Agreement, she said the government was taking steps domestically to compress the timeline for our ratification of the Agreement. "We hope that the next U.S.
Asserting that India's enhanced global role was in mutual interest, she said, "It is in this context, we look forward to continue working closely with the US to secure our membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group and permanent membership of the U.N. Security Council." Minister's visit in June. This would spur defense industry collaboration between India and the US and help India play the desired role as a net provider of security in the region," Ms. Swaraj added. She also said the two sides have been able to conclude a Framework for the India-US Cyber Relationship, the first of its kind both for India and the U.S., with any other country. She also pitched for a "just and non-discriminatory solution" to the issue of tantalization and recent fee hike for H1B and L1 visa that has "affected our
Administration will continue to support the Paris Agreement with the same seriousness and purpose as you have done, and that the goal of mobilizing $100 billion per year from developed countries, will be met with firm support from the U.S. government," she said. Ms. Sara also talked about the need to step up collaboration in the area of clean energy that will make it viable for us to make quantum transition to renewable energy away from fossil fuel, and achieve our ambitious climate goals.-Agencies
Indian named CEO of leading US firm NEW YORK: An IIT Bombay alumnus and software industry veteran has been named CEO of a leading US company that produces engineering simulation software used for testing product designs across a wide spectrum of industries including rockets and wearable technology. Ajei Gopal, 54 will become the CEO of Pennsylvania-based ANSYS with effect from January 1 next year. Gopal, a 25-year technology industry veteran who has served as a member of the ANSYS Board since 2011, has been appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of the company effective immediately and will continue to serve on the Board. James Cashman, who has
served as ANSYS' Chief Executive Officer since 2000, will become Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective from January 2017. ANSYS said Gopal has extensive management and business development experience at large software and technology companies. He has held leadership roles at companies including Symantec, Hewlett-Packard and IBM. Gopal has served as interim president and COO at Californiabased technology company Symantec, leading the company through the recruitment of a permanent CEO. He was senior vice president and general manager at HewlettPackard from 2011 and has worked at IBM from 1991 to 2000. He began his career as a member of the technical staff at Bell Communications Research.
Gopal has 23 US patents to his name and has a doctorate in computer science from Cornell Univer-
Ajei Gopal
sity and a bachelor's degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay. The company said having
Gopal on board is "a huge win for ANSYS". "I have no doubt that his outstanding leadership, unique perspective and appreciation for ANSYS' culture, people and organization make him the right choice to serve as our next leader during this exciting time," Ashman said. Gopal said he was "honored" to lead ANSYS. "...I am committed to building on our standard of excellence and pushing the boundaries of innovation to help customers solve their most complex design chal-
lenges," he said. Ronald Hovsepian, who currently serves as Chairman of the ANSYS Board, said Gopal brings a "proven track record, expertise managing the scale and complexity of a global multi-billion dollar company and critical skills in software strategy, engineering, product management and development". Headquartered in Pennsylvania, ANSYS has more than 75 strategic sales locations throughout the world with a network of channel partners in over 40 countries. ANSYS develops, markets and supports engineering simulation software used to predict how product designs will behave in real-world environments. -PTI
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MP CM in US to woo investors NEW YORK: Describing Madhya Pradesh as an "ideal investment destination", Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said he would seek investment from US companies in sectors like IT, infrastructure and food processing by highlighting his state's conducive business environment. Chouhan arrived here on a fiveday tour during which he will meet several CEOs and executives of global companies, address a round-table organized by US-India Business Council and Confed-
cies for various sectors to ensure ease of doing business for the foreign investor," Chouhan told PTI here. He said the state government focuses on a "single table" concept in place of the "single window" where policy matters and hurdles to investments are discussed in meetings and quick solutions are arrived at to address concerns of investors and businesses. Chouhan underscored that sectors such as auto, textile, edu-
He said the state government focuses on a "single table" concept in place of the "single window" where policy matters and hurdles to investments are discussed in meetings and quick solutions are arrived at to address concerns of investors and businesses eration of Indian Industry (CII) on the investment opportunities in Madhya Pradesh and sign an MoU with Columbia University. "Madhya Pradesh is the heartland of India and is an ideal destination for investment. It is conducive to business and we have put in place investor friendly poli-
cation, health, IT, pharma, minerals, food processing and infrastructure offer tremendous investment potential in his state, saying he will assure investors that the state offers an environment of ease of doing business. "We have simplified various policies to ensure ease of doing
business. Our state is implementing labor reforms, has no shortage of skilled manpower and we are willing to undertake measures to make the business environment more conducive," he said. Chouhan said investors are looking at new destinations in India as some states across India have reached a "saturation" point. "In this context, Madhya Pradesh, where leading Indian business houses have established a foothold, is ideal to attract new investment," he said. Noting that Madhya Pradesh is becoming an educational hub, Chouhan said his government will also explore the possibility of entering into collaborations with leading US universities. The Minister attended a reception organized by the Overseas Friends of BJP in New Jersey. Last year, Chouhan had addressed hundreds of IndianAmericans and key American lawmakers at the 'Friends of Madhya Pradesh Conclave' at the prestigious Lincoln Centre in the city, inviting industries and entrepreneurs to 'Make in Madhya Pradesh', drawing upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign. -PTI
Man Kaur, left, 100, of India, is helped by her son Gurdev Singh, 78, as she takes a drink of water after competing in the 100-meter track and field event at the America’s Masters Games in Vancouver, British Columbia, August 29
Shivraj Singh Chouhan
'India, US partners in promoting peace' Cont’d from page 6
economic challenges together, remove impediments to growing our economies, and contribute to a sustainable, balanced global economy. "I am certain that every future US administration will continue to move our strong partnership with India forward, advancing the joint vision that President Obama and Prime Minister Modi set out in 2014 of 'chalein saath' - Forward together we go - and capturing the benefits of our Joint Strategic vision as indispensable partners in promoting peace, prosperity, and stability in the region," he said. Zients further said the work
"Over the past seven-and-ahalf years, our cooperation has strengthened in every field from developing life-saving solutions for infectious diseases to strengthening humanitarian and disaster relief," Zients told PTI in an interview ahead of his visit to India. He said the leadership from both the countries has helped galvanize global action to support clean energy solutions and combat climate change, including the historic Paris Agreement. Zients also serves as Assistant to the US President for Economic Policy. Previously, he was ap"For economies of our size, pointed by the President to a newly created we need to do much better. position of United States Chief Perfor- We can grow our commermance Officer. Prior to cial relationship with India if joining the Administration, Zients spent 20 modest reforms are made� years in the private sector as a CEO, management consultant and entrepreneur. done by the two governments and Asked about his assessment of their businesses together is helpthe progress made by India and ing to create better opportunities the US in trade and commerce in for cities and rural communities the seven-and-half years of the and it increasingly has global benObama administration and the efits. "We are extremely proud of all message for his successor, Zients said the two-way trade between of our economic achievements, the two countries has reached but at the same time we know USD 109 billion and investment is there is a lot more we can do togenerating new jobs and healthier gether. "For economies of our size, we economies. "Our conversations this week need to do much better. We can will include government-to-gov- grow our commercial relationship ernment discussions, as well as with India if modest reforms are opportunities to hear from busi- made, like strengthening intellecness people and entrepreneurs tual property protections, reducwho rely on good government ing technical barriers to trade, and by deepening engagement to adpolicies. "It is undoubtedly in both of dress market access barriers," he our interests to find solutions to added.-PTI
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Myanmar President has talks with Modi NEW DELHI: India and Myanmar have resolved to strengthen bilateral security and defense cooperation for maintaining peace and stability along the 1,640-km-long border, some stretch of which is porous and den for cross- border crime and insurgency in the northeast. In their talks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Myanmar President U Htin Kyaw discussed ways for "sound border management" holding it an intrinsic part of maintaining security, peace and stability along the entire length of the border. A joint statement said both sides reiterated their commitment to "respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the other and to continue practicing the policy of not allowing any insurgent groups to use their soil for hostile activities against the other side". It said both the sides "reaffirmed" their shared commitment to fight the scourge of terrorism and insurgent activity in all its forms and manifestations, adding it was agreed that enhanced cooperation between security forces and border guarding agencies was key to ensure peace in border areas. A number of insurgent groups including the NSCN-K carry out attacks in India while reportedly operating from Myanmar's territory. The Indian Army is said to
have carried out a cross border strike targeting two insurgent camps in Myanmar last year. Earlier this month, the Army had an encounter with NSCN-K cadres who tried to infiltrate into Nagaland from Myanmar. India has been raising with Myanmar
along the long India-Myanmar border," the statement said. On the maritime security sphere, both sides agreed that such cooperation in the Bay of Bengal is vital for both countries. As per the joint statement, Myanmar informed the Indian
the two sides called for further strengthening of the international legal regime to combat the menace. In this context, they called for early finalization of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism currently being
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with President of Myanmar Htin Kyaw in joint media briefing, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 29
the issue of several northeast militant groups having training camps in that country. "Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral security and defense cooperation, which is crucial for maintaining peace and stability
side that State Counselor and Foreign Minister Aung San Suu Kyi will come to India to participate in the forthcoming Outreach Summit between BRICS and BIMSTEC on October 16. Holding terrorism as the most serious threat facing the world,
negotiated in the United Nations. Identifying the need for special focus on welfare of people in border areas, both sides agreed to enhance their cooperation to bring about overall socio-economic development in the areas by undertaking infrastructure de-
velopment and micro-economic projects, including upgrading of roads and construction of schools, health centers and bridges. The joint statement said both sides agreed to boost bilateral trade in diverse areas including in the hydrocarbons sector. It was agreed to expand collaboration in the oil and hydrocarbon sectors. Indian companies are involved in oil exploration projects in Myanmar. "Myanmar side agreed to invite Indian companies to participate in competitive tender for petrochemical and petroleum products marketing infrastructure and setting up LPG terminals," the statement said. It said Indian leadership thanked Myanmar for accepting its request and giving a license to the State Bank of India to open a bank branch in Myanmar. The two leaders also expressed hope that the modalities of operation of border haats may be finalized soon. The two sides also discussed on setting up immigration facilities at the Tamu-Moreh and RhiZowkhathar border crossing points at an early date. The President of Myanmar extended an invitation to the President of India and the Prime Minister of India to visit Myanmar and the invitations were accepted. PTI
Sikh woman makes history in Canadian Parl Indo-Canadian Sikh MP Bardish Chagger has been named as the new Leader of the govern-
ment in Canada's House of Commons, becoming the first woman to hold the post in the country's
history. Ms Chagger, the 36-year-old Waterloo MP and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, was among 19 Indian-origin candidates who won in last year's general election. "This is a tremendous opportunity. I have been involved in the political process for basically my whole life," Ms Chagger told reporters on Parliament Hill after her swearingin. "I know what democracy should look like. Democracy should be engaging Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau congratulating Bardish Chagger Canadians.
That is the leadership of our prime minister and that's why the whole of government approach will work for Canada," she was quoted as saying by CBC News. The latest development makes her the first woman in Canadian history to hold the job of guiding government legislation through Parliament and replaces Dominic LeBlanc.
together...let's work with the team and let's get there," she said. Ms Chagger, who was born and raised in the Waterloo region, attended the University of Waterloo where she was the president of the Young Liberals. She will retain her title as the minister along with the new role. She is one of the four Sikh Ca-
"This is a tremendous opportunity. I have been involved in the political process for basically my whole life," Ms Chagger told reporters on Parliament Hill after her swearing-in Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his "confidence in minister Chagger as a worthy successor", the report said, citing a government statement. On the first day on the job, Ms Chagger said she "really does believe that we can all work
nadians inducted into Trudeau's Cabinet besides Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan - a combat veteran who did three tours in Afghanistan as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, Infrastructure Minister Amarjeet Sohi and Innovation Minister Navdeep Singh Bains.-Agencies
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Apply balm on wounds of Kashmiris: CM NAGROTA, Jammu: The Central leadership will have to take "one or more steps" than Pakistan to "apply balm on the wounds" of Kashmiris, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said here and hoped that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will use his man-
steps than our neighboring country (Pakistan) as Jammu and Kashmir is our state and we have to apply balm on wounds of the people," she added. "To apply balm on the wounds of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, not only the Prime Minister or
Mehbooba Mufti
date to save the lives and future of children of Kashmir. "I met Prime Minister recently. I have full hope that the mandate and power he has, he (PM) will use that power to save the lives and future of children of Kashmir," she said here while speaking at inauguration of building of Food Craft Institute. "May be we (Government of India) have to take one or more
NDA government but the entire leadership of the country, Congress, CPI (M), JDU etc should come forward and support the peace building initiative," Mehbooba said. She said Modi has the mandate to take bold decisions on the lines of Atal Bihari Vajpayee for the resolution of the problems in and around Jammu and Kashmir. We have to ensure that a cred-
ible mechanism for dialogue, reconciliation and resolution is put in place and it should not be like the half-hearted efforts made in similar situations after 2008 and 2010 unrest, she said and called for creating conducive atmosphere for dialogue. "We are facing difficult situation in the state.... We hope that we will come out of this situation. We pray to God that such a situation is not repeated again in future," Mehbooba said. "But I am happy that people of Jammu have ensured peace and communal harmony. Situation in Kashmir is bad. There was violence and bloodshed. But the people of Jammu ensured communal harmony and brotherhood," she noted. The Chief Minister said whosoever wants the Kashmir problem to be addressed should understand that solution is not going to come through violence. She said violence has changed nothing on political spectrum of Jammu and Kashmir over the years and has only brought mayhem, miseries, economic disaster, academic breakdown and social disorder to the state. Maintaining that violence will not help resolve issues, the Chief Minister said that peace and dialogue is the only way forward towards addressing the Kashmir imbroglio. "Threads need to be picked up
from where these were left by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2005, when a serious effort was made both on external and internal fronts to resolve the Kashmir issue through a credible and meaningful dialogue and confidence building process," she said. She asserted that PJP-PDP entered into alliance to carry forward the agenda of Vajpayee and former Chief Minister Mufti Mohmmad Sayeed and not for power or government.
ning to win hearts and minds of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, she said, adding he had also impressed upon Pakistan that "war, conspiracies and infiltration is no solution to Kashmir problem, but we should sit and hold talks". Hailing the step taken by Modi of going to Lahore which was followed by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Islamabad, Mehbooba said, "I hope that Pakistan will under-
Vajpayee had made a beginning to win hearts and minds of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, she said, adding he had also impressed upon Pakistan that "war, conspiracies and infiltration is no solution to Kashmir problem, but we should sit and hold talks" "We entered into alliance (between PDP and BJP) in difficult circumstances. We did not enter into coalition for the power and the government", She said. The Chief Minister said the coalition was formed to ensure that Jammu and Kashmir is brought out from the nearly 70year-old turmoil and misfortune. "There was unrest in 2008 and it was followed by 2010 and now in 2016 there is again this violent unrest. We are yet to come out of these misfortunes," she said. Vajpayee had made a begin-
stand sooner or later and will realize that targeting each other or leveling allegations will not solve any issue. "Both countries should hold the hand of each other and carry forward the step taken by PM Modi." She said if Pathankot terror attack had not happened, "the situation (between India and Pakistan) would have been better." She went on to add, "Whatever has happened has happened" and said the two countries should Vajpayee's initiative. -PTI
India demands non-partisan functioning of UN NEW DELHI: India has strongly pitched for a "zero-tolerance" approach towards terrorism and demanded a "non-partisan and coherent" functioning of the United Nations to deal with the menace. This was raised by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in her meeting with President-elect
During the meeting, the minister told him that "We need to embed the principle such as zero-tolerance for direct or indirect state support to terror and an obligation to create 'prosecute or extradite 'domestic legal jurisdiction and the principle of no justification for terrorism," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas
We need to embed the principle such as zero-tolerance for direct or indirect state support to terror and an obligation to create 'prosecute or extradite 'domestic legal jurisdiction and the principle of no justification for terrorism of the 71st session of the UN General Assembly Ambassador Peter Thomson here. Thomson, who is the Permanent Representative of Fiji to the United Nations, arrived here on a threeday visit, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi before holding extensive talks with Swaraj.
Swarup said. He further said Swaraj also stressed on the need for existing counter-terror structures within the UN to function in "non-partisan and coherent" manner during her talks with Thomson. Swaraj's remarks assume significance as Comprehensive Con-
vention on International Terrorism (CCIT), proposed by India in 1996, is yet to be adopted by the UN given the opposition of many countries including the US and some Islamic countries. They have not been able to agree on defining terrorism and terrorists and the scope of the proposed convention among other issues. CCIT intends to criminalize all forms of international terrorism and make it binding for all countries to cut off funds and deny arms and safe haven to terrorist organizations. The discussion on tackling of threats of terrorism by the UN structures also comes in the backdrop of China recently blocking India's moves for a UN ban on Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar. According to official sources, the leaders also discussed ways to provide further impetus to the ongoing Inter- Governmental Negotiations (IGN) process on UNSC reform and revitalizing the functioning of the UNGA itself and
implementation issues pertaining to Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this context, Swaraj said
there should not be any dilution of concept of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) while dealing with global environmental degradation.-PTI
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India lead urged in new non-proliferation treaty NEW DELHI: The pressure for a new nuclear arms non-proliferation treaty is increasing and India can play an important role in overcoming differences by talking to all sides, a top UN official has said. Kim Won-soo, Under Secretary-General & High Representative for Disarmament Affairs at UN Office for Disarmament Affairs pointed out there are 15,000 atomic war heads in the world that pose a threat to the global security.
ings. India and Pakistan have been participating in the OEWG sessions but have not yet evinced confidence it can contribute something of value to the nuclear disarmament. "India is a special case. Whether to participate in it or not is your decision. It's better to participate and raise your objections. It's better than not participating," he said.
Resolution will be negotiated and adopted with maximum inclusiveness. Nuclear disarmament cannot happen without inclusive fight and commitment by all states. We hope all states extend their commitment Kim urged India to participate in the UN Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) and raise its concerns. The OEWG was formed in 2012 to take forward Multilateral Nuclear Disarmament Negotiations. While China, Pakistan, Israel and India had abstained France, Russia, UK, and the US had voted against the UN resolution for establishing the OEWG and have not been participating in its meet-
He raised concern over Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) weapons and said the biological ones could be 3-4 times more lethal and if drones are used, the intensity could rise up to 10 times. Noting that measures need to be taken to ensure non-state actors like terror groups don't get hold of CERN weapons, Kim said there is hardly any investment in curbing proliferation of biological
weapons as against chemical and radiological weapons. Speaking at an interaction with diplomats at the Indian Council of World Affairs here, Kim said the resolution on the new nuclear arms non-proliferation treaty is likely to come up in the UN General Assembly. "It is very likely for the resolution to (be) realized. Resolution will be negotiated and adopted with maximum inclusiveness. Nuclear disarmament cannot happen without inclusive fight and commitment by all states. We hope all states extend their commitment. "We hope we can overcome divisions through inclusive dialogue. India will play an important role as a country which can talk to all sides to overcome divisions," Kim said. The senior UN official claimed 90 per cent of the chemical weapons declared by Syria have been destroyed, but teams are still verifying as there were inconsistencies in the claims made by the Damascus and the ground situation. Kim said mustard gas was used as a chemical weapon in Syria, but it has also come to light that massive quantities of chlorine, which can be found easily, is being used.-PTI
Indian spiritual leader Chinmoy Kumar Ghose’s followers create a world record by lighting 72,000 candles during celebration of his 85th birth anniversary on a cake measuring 45 feet by 10 feet in the borough of Queens, New York on August 27. The event was led by the Guinness World Record champion Ashrita Furman
Pak opposition unhappy with Kashmir envoys ISLAMABAD: The 22 Paki- the Kashmir cause. stani lawmakers nominated by "Premier Nawaz is not ready to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to discuss Kashmir issue before his highlight Kashmir issue have no Indian counterpart Narendra credentials as most of them have Modi," said Umar, adding that the poor attendance in parliament, the government had nominated 22 opposition parties said. MPs as special envoys just to Sharif had appointed 22 law- strengthen the ruling PML-N. makers as envoys, most of them Senator Taj Haider said majorfrom the treasury benches, who would visit key world capitals to highlight alleged In- Premier Nawaz is not ready dian atrocities in Kash- to discuss Kashmir issue mir. Pakistan Tehreek-e- before his Indian Insaf (PTI) leader Asad counterpart Narendra Modi," Umar and Senator Taj Haider of the Pakistan said Umar People's Party (PPP) said the government should have included members of ity of parliamentarians nominated opposition parties. as special envoys belonged to They said the Kashmir issue treasury benches and expressed can be raised globally in a befit- apprehension that these desigting manner only if the govern- nated MPs would not be able to ment works along with the oppo- highlight Kashmir issue effecsition parties. tively. Asad said most of the nomiHe said the government should nated MPs did not even attend have included opposition leaders parliamentary debates and ques- of both houses of the parliament tioned how they could highlight in the group of envoys.-PTI
Unfairly targeted, says S. Africa's Gupta family JOHANNESBURG: South gress and President Zuma are curAfrica's Gupta family, subjected to rently under following the party's a wide range of allegations of ir- losses in the recent local governregular business dealings be- ment poll. There is also tension cause of their ties to President between Zuma and Finance MinJacob Zuma, said they are being ister Pravin Gordhan. unfairly targeted by people want"The Gupta family businesses ing to score political points. are significantly smaller in comThe brothers, Ajay, Atul and parison to the top businesses in Rajesh, who arrived from India at the country and the disproporthe advent of democracy under tionate media focus tells you there Nelson Mandela in the 1990's, have announced that they “The disproportionate media would relinquish all their shareholdings in focus tells you there is a South African busi- hidden agenda behind nesses by the end of the targeting the family year. They have set up a businesses," Naidoo said huge information technology company, Sahara Computers, before branching is a hidden agenda behind targetinto a range of businesses. ing the family businesses," "In the current scenario, the Naidoo said, but did not elaboGupta family is caught in a rate on who was behind the "hidcrossfire," their family spokesman den agenda". Gary Naidoo told PTI. In recent years, the family has "Because of the latest changes been the subject of many controin political scenario, the media is versies, most of them linked to targeting the family to score po- their allegedly close relationship litical points," Naidoo said. with Zuma and other top ANC He was referring to the pres- leaders, but no charges had been sure that African National Con- brought against them.-PTI
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US home sales fell in July amid shortage WASHINGTON: US homebuyers pulled back in July, as sales declined amid a shortage of available properties and steadily rising prices. Sales of existing homes fell 3.2 percent last month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.39 million, the National Association of Realtors said. The decline marks a reversal from rising demand that pushed sales in June to their highest level since February 2007. Fewer homes are coming onto the market, putting a cap on the sales growth enjoyed earlier this year thanks in part to a low mortgage rate and brightening job market. Rising demand for homes is a positive. But the dwindling supply of listings has pushed up prices, which suggests a market not yet at full health. This mismatch between supply and demand creates an environment of limited sales growth and escalating home values. ``Sales are not rising as much as they are capable of, but prices are rising at a faster than sustainable clip,'' said Stephen Stanley, chief economist at Amherst Pierpont Securities. The number of listings has tumbled 5.8 percent from a year ago to 2.13 million, meaning that would-be homebuyers are struggling to find attractive properties in their price range and may be delaying their purchases.
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Southfield plans for Northland mall site SOUTHFIELD, Mich.: Officials in Southfield have revealed to residents plans for the nowclosed Northland shopping center building and land. City officials want the site north of Detroit redeveloped for homes, shops and office space. Plans also include entertainment and a public park. Details were released at a public meeting. The mall closed last year. Mayor Ken Siver said more than 50 developers have expressed interest in the cityowned 114-acre site. Southfield paid $2.4 million for the property to have more control over the site's future. The city plans to demolish the mall and then sell the property to a developer. The mall is just north of Detroit and opened in 1954. It was enclosed in 1971 and lost anchor stores and smaller shops in recent years before shutting down. -AP
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Brookfield to set up office in India SINGAPORE: A global real estate facility will open its first office in India, a top company executive has said. Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions (GIS), will establish their base in the fourth quarter of this year in Mumbai. "Mumbai will be our Indian headquarters. We will have people on the ground in major cities," said Mike Harrison, Brookfield GIS's executive managing director for Asia, here. He said that Indian market has a "strong potential" and is backed by abundance of talent. -PTI
Chennai is gearing up for major industrial development V NAGARAJAN
CHENNAI: Chennai the Detroit of Asia, is home to 30% of India's automobile industry and 35% of its automobile component industry. With the establishment of IT corridor, OMR, GST Road and ECR are considered as prolific growth corridors that will trigger investment and promote real estate growth. On the South west side, Oragadam and Sriperumbudur are gaining momentum due to cascading impact of Chennai-Bengaluru corridor and auto hub recently initiated by the Railways. In such a scenario, the need for housing cannot be overstressed. However, the real estate sector has been facing hard times for the past three years. Housing sales in Chennai remained stable in 2015 at 20,500 units. Absorption rate increased to 31.3% in 2015 from about 26.6% in 2014. At the same time
residential market in Chennai witnessed a price appreciation of
2.2% (y-o-y) in 2015 and is expected to see about 2% price increase in 2016. It has been estimated that the demand for housing in Tamil Nadu is over 1.2 million units. Out of this, 95 per cent of the shortage is for units in the EWS and LIG sector, according to government sources. On the commercial front, around 3.2 million sqft of office supply is ex-
pected in the OMR and Guindy in 2016, according to CBRE. Corporate occupier interest remained upbeat across the city during the first quarter. A few regional developers have begun to acquire properties for new commercial/IT development to meet the growing demand. Brigade group, which holds licences to build World Trade Centres in five southern cities, will build its third WTC after Bengaluru and Kochi in Chennai, developing well over 2.5 million sqft of commercial and office space on the 16-acre land in Perungudi on OMR. Though the market is slowly recovering from the aftermath of a prolonged impasse, there are better days ahead in view of the all-round industrial development being planned around the city. Cont’d on page 15
Developers likely to acquire new projects NEW DELHI: With global investors committing over USD 2 billion in the Indian real estate sector, credit rating agency ICRA said developers would be able to acquire new projects and ensure healthy launch pipeline. Commercial real estate sector has witnessed increasing participation by various large global funds and private equity players, buoyed by the gradual recovery in the sector since 2014-15 fiscal, it said. Of late, it added, many of the global institutional investors have also started looking at housing segment favorably. The tie-up with international investors would help real estate developers build a healthy launch pipeline, it said. "The stress in the industry has made available ample of investment opportunities in the sector at attractive rates. With over USD 2 billion of capital commitment expected under various platforms, the lead-
ing developers would be able to acquire new projects thus ensuring a steady launch pipeline over the medium term," ICRA Ratings VP Shubham Jain said. The equity nature of such partnerships would reduce the burden of providing any committed exit to partners, he added. ICRA noted that instead of land-banking, the past decade saw asset-light models of development, like joint development agreements (JDAs), joint ventures (JVs) and more recently, development management agreements (DMAs) gaining prominence. This shift from the land-banking model to risk-reduced project development has also attracted many global investors. Among the first to do so was Godrej Properties Ltd (GPL), which launched a USD 200 million investment platform in partnership with Dutch pension fund asset manager APG Asset Management NV in 2012, following it with an additional USD 275 million platform
with the same investor in March 2016. Tata Housing and Brigade have also set up similar investment platforms. DLF has raised about Rs 2,000 crore from GIC last year for its projects in the national capital. The investment platforms provide the developers with access to capital, which can be deployed
Given the limited supply coupled with the delays in execution across projects, there has been a shift in consumer preference across projects. The investment is typically routed through the project special purpose vehicle (SPV), with the costs and profits to be shared by the partners in a pre-determined
manner as per their respective economic interests. "While the private equity investment inflow in the industry has been healthy, the domestic real estate developers have been grappling with challenges such as subdued sales as well as cash flows," ICRA said. Given the limited supply coupled with the delays in execution across projects, there has been a shift in consumer preference towards projects from large and reputed players. This has helped support the sales for large developers, though the overall demand continues to remain muted. "By partnering with well established and experienced developers, having a demonstrated track record of execution as well as delivery of projects, the private equity investors are able to participate in the domestic real estate sector while reducing the exposure to execution as well as counterparty risk," Jain said. -PTI
Real Estate Post
September 2, 2016
India Post 15
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US new-home sales climb to best level WASHINGTON: Americans stepped up their purchases of new homes in July to the fastest pace in nearly nine years, the latest sign that low mortgage rates and a solid job market are helping support the residential real estate market. New-home sales jumped 12.4 percent last month to a seasonally adjusted rate of 654,000 annual units, the strongest level since October 2007, the Commerce Department said. The demand has eclipsed the pace of construction. Just 4.3 months' supply of new homes is available on the market, down from 5.2 months a year ago. Construction of single-family
houses has picked up this year as the market has extended its recovery from the drop-off caused by the housing meltdown that began nearly a decade ago. Sales in July roughly matched the long-standing pace of 650,000 new homes selling each year. As the job mar-
ket has strengthened and mortgage rates have settled near alltime lows, more buyers have been drawn to new developments and properties. ``We see tremendous growth potential in new-home sales as housing demand continues to grow and the continued supply shortage of newer vintage homes,'' said Tian Liu, chief economist at Genworth Mortgage Insurance. The improved sales of both new and existing homes has supported the broader U.S. economy, which is still hampered by a global slowdown and weak worker productivity. Existing-home sales reached a
seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.57 million in June, the best performance since early 2007. Construction companies have added 215,000 jobs over the past 12 months. Over the same period, sales have risen 3.5 percent at building materials stores and 4.3
percent at furnishing stores, according to the government. Purchases shot up 40 percent in the Northeast and 18.1 percent in the South last month. They increased slightly in the Midwest and stayed unchanged in the West. July's median sales price dipped 0.5 percent from a year ago to $294,600, a possible reflection of the regional sales mix. So far this year, new-home sales have climbed 12.4 percent to 352,000. Builders are increasing construction but are still running behind demand. Ground breakings for houses have climbed 10.6 percent year-to-date, the government reported last week. This marks a sharp reversal from prior years in the recovery from the Great Recession, when a large share of the increase in residential construction came from apartments. Optimism abounds for many builders as well. The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo builder sentiment index for August rose two points to 60 following a downwardly revised reading of 58 in July. Readings above 50 indicate more builders view sales conditions as good rather than poor. Low mortgage rates are feeding much of this confidence. Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 3.43 percent last week from 3.98 percent a year ago. -AP
US home sales fell in July amid shortage Cont’d from page 14
Inventories have fallen on an annual basis for the past 14 months, an indication that many homeowners are still recovering financially from the housing bust that triggered the Great Recession almost a decade ago. Without sufficient equity in their current homes, many of these owners would be unable to generate a down payment for another home with the proceeds from a sale. The decrease in listings has corresponded with home values rising at more than double the pace of average hourly earnings, making many homes less affordable for potential buyers. The median home sales price was $244,100 in July, up 5.3 percent from a year ago.
Sales last month fell 13.2 percent in the Northeast, with declines in the Midwest and South as well. Purchases rose 2.5 percent in the West in July. Builders are attempting get more
One thing that wouldbe buyers have in their favor, in addition to the improved landscape for jobs, is near record-low mortgage rates. homes on the market. Sales of new homes climbed 12.4 percent last month to a seasonally adjusted rate of 654,000 annual units, the stron-
gest level since October 2007, the Commerce Department said. Yet demand has eclipsed even that surge. Just 4.3 months' supply of new homes is available on the market, down from 5.2 months a year ago. ``Homebuilders continue to thrive on healthy demand while homebuyers remain stifled by anemic inventory,'' said Ralph McLaughlin, chief economist at Trulia. One thing that would-be buyers have in their favor, in addition to the improved landscape for jobs, is near record-low mortgage rates. Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 3.43 percent last week from 3.98 percent a year ago. The average rate has historically been closer to 6 percent. -AP
Chennai is gearing up for major industrial development Cont’d from page 14
Major development The state government is laying much emphasis on establishing auto majors because of its multiplier effect in generating additional investment through vendors. For instance Ford has got 200 suppliers, Hyundai 270 suppliers, Nissan 200 suppliers, Daimler Benz 100 suppliers. One auto major's establishment will bring scores of ancillary vendors to its fold that will have a ripple effect on both additional investment and employment generation. In other words, Re 1 investment by the parent company will collectively bring Rs 3.5 from its vendors. Similar is the case with electronic industry. However, this will vary from industry to industry. The last Global Investors' Meet (GIM) had attracted several automobile and electronics industry by way of commitment to expand their operations in the city. As a result, significant results can be seen around Chennai in the
known place in Krishnagiri district is bracing itself to lure major projects that will have a multiplier effect on ancillary industries. The electronic hardware sector alone is expected to generate Rs 5,000 crore investment that will provide employment to 10,000 people. In Cheyyar, SIPCOT has established industrial complexes that has made NIKE to invest Rs 300 crore to put a mega shoe factory. This is expected to create rural employment for 85 per cent of the women in the vicinity, both semiskilled and unskilled. On the GST road corridor, India's biggest vaccine park is coming up near Chengalpet on an area of 100 acres. This is a centralised unit of national importance as it will produce a range of vaccines thus eliminating the need to import vaccines in future. It will be constructed as per global standards at a cost of approximately Rs.150 crore. TIDCO is handling the administrative operation of the medi city. The Medi Park is coming up
On the GST road corridor, India's biggest vaccine park is coming up near Chengalpet on an area of 100 acres. This is a centralised unit of national importance as it will produce a range of vaccines thus eliminating the need to import vaccines in future. coming years, according to Guidance Bureau sources. Royal Enfield has opened a new plant in Vallam Vadakal in Oragadam at an estimated cost of Rs 350 crore. Yamaha is also setting up a new plant and nine vendors have already commenced production in the vicinity. Besides Tirunelveli and Tuticorin are poised for a major industrial development. In the process Coimbatore will become the major beneficiary. Substantial investment is going to happen in this city triggering real estate growth. The GIM had also lured KEF Infra in Krishnagiri for precast building materials to reduce the construction lead time. The construction industry needs an approach that is engineered to be safe, cost-effective, agile and sustainable, while meeting global standards. KEF Infra envisions reducing construction time, conserving resources and improving project quality in terms of performance and longevity. Additionally Bargur, a little
on 230 acres of land in Chengalpet in proximity to the medi city. This is considered as India's first sector specific infrastructure initiative and medical equipment manufacturers in Tamil Nadu will play a key role. The project, set up by TIDCO in association with the central government enterprise HLL Life Care Ltd., is nearing completion and will have the state of the art facility. The SIPCOT is trying to promote Ponneri with an investment tag of Rs 600 crore by establishing industrial parks for heavy engineering. On the south-west of Chennai, Sojitz Corporation will establish the Sojitz-Motherson Industrial Park considered as the first Japanese-affiliated general industrial park in India on 274 acres at Singadivakkam village and Mummalpattu village. V. Nagarajan is a property consultant and columnist on NRI investment in real estate. He can be reached through email: nagarajan53@gmail.com
Desi News Hundreds celebrate Janamasthami at Iskcon temple SURENDRA ULLAL
CHICAGO: Devotees in hundreds flocked to Hare Krishna ISKCON temple on Lunt Avenue in Chicago on Janmasthami night to celebrate the appearance of Lord Krishna 5000 years ago. The celebrations on August 25 were highlighted with Bhajans, Discourse, Aarti and Prasadam. ISKCON founder A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada taught that the path to happiness was not found in material pursuits but in simple living, high thinking and in awakening love of God Lord Krishna.
COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA
16 India Post
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Ex-CM Shinde launches IONC Maha Chapter Details on page 22
September 2, 2016
India association of St Louis celebrates I-Day in big way ASHWIN PATEL
Details on page 20
Senior program in St Louis very well received GIRDHAR G SHARMA
ST LOUIS: Mahatma Gandhi Cultural Center (MGC) hosted a Seniors Social on Sunday, August 21 in St. Louis, MO attended by over 100 residents of the AmericanIndian community of Greater St. Louis area with more than 65 years of life experiences and wisdom. This free program started with socializing and lunch at noon followed by informational lectures relevant for the elderly. Geriatrician Dr Miriam Rodin spoke on the topic of "Successful Aging: It's in your Hands"; Dr. GV Naidu presented the relevance of "Spiritual Strength"; Dr. Elly Barua Bhuyan spoke on the importance of "Sports/ Activities for Elderly"; Dr Satish Kulkarni presented on "Mental Health awareness" and Cheryl Campbell along with Maggie O'Hara informed seniors on the options of "sizing down & retirement housing". Details on page 22
Islamic society annual meet on grand scale
Participants with IAS Board
ST LOUIS: India Association of St. Louis organized the festivities to celebrate India's 70th Independence Day with Community members coming together to hoist the American and Indian flags that flanked the bust of Mahatma Gandhi They enthusiastically sang the anthems of both countries. The crowd moved indoors into the Mahatma Gandhi Center after a parade on the grounds. The Guests of Honor for the occasion were Missouri State Representative Bill Otto and Rahul Parikh. Otto spoke of US-India relations and the importance of mutual un-
derstanding and cooperation. Parikh talked about the meaning of freedom, sacrifices of the freedom fighters and the enduring values of non-violence, tolerance, acceptance and truth. He also highlighted hallmark of India's struggle
for independence and the principles that were practiced by his great great grandfather, Mahatma Gandhi. Following the singing of melodious patriotic songs, the Mela was opened to the celebratory beats of
Parikh talked about the meaning of freedom, sacrifices of the freedom fighters and the enduring values of non-violence, tolerance, acceptance and truth. He also highlighted hallmark of India's struggle for independence
the dhol. Colorful stalls selling a variety of merchandise ranging from ethnic jewelry to traditional sarees and clothing to handmade gifts and mouth-watering food, filled the lower level of the center. On the upper level, children and adults participated in flower arrangement and art competitions. There was a beautiful cultural program. Children and adults showcased their talents as they sang and danced to celebrate the spirit of the occasion. Over 350 people participated in the day's festivities. Cont’d on page 19
ASHFAQ SYED
CHICAGO: Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), one of the oldest organizations of North America completing its 52 years of service to the Community, plans hosting its 53rd Annual Convention from September 2 to 5 in Chicago. The Annual Convention is one of the largest gatherings of Muslims in North America with attendance of about 15,000 guests from all walks of lifeline fosters the development of community through convention, conferences, education, forums, interfaith activities, youth programs and other avenues. Details on page 26
Kannada Sangama members singing patriotic song
IAS Board members
Community Across America
September 2, 2016
India Post 17
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Illinois declares Sept. 16 as Subbulakshmi Day SURENDRA ULLAL & PRAKASH SWAMY
CHICAGO: Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner has declared September 16 as MS Subbulakshmi Day to commemorate the music legend's birth centenary day which is being celebrated by US based nonprofit organization Sankara Nethralaya Om Trust across the US. The proclamation issued by Gov Rauner praised the contribution of Subbulakshmi to the world of music and said she was a celebrated musician, a philanthropist and a patriot who joined the leaders of the nation to inspire millions of Indians during the country's struggle for independence. "Born into humble beginnings in Madurai, deep in South India, she rose from regional prominence to national and international recognition through her many awards and accolades," he said. He also praised the not-forprofit eye institution Sankara Nethralaya of Chennai for sponsoring and celebrating the legend's birth centenary for the benefit of her Illinois fans and admirers. The SN Om Trust is organizing a musical homage to the legend with a Carnatic music concert by Padma Bhushan awardee Sudha Raghunathan and her troupe at Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago
on September 10. Through this concert, the Chicago chapter of SN OM Trust plans to raise $130,000 for 2000 free surgeries. US-based Sankara Nethralaya
Ophthalmic Mission Trust (SN OM Trust) is also planning six concerts by Sudha Ragunathan in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Chicago and Washington DC during September under "Voice for Vision" musical series to raise funds for its charitable activities. To commemorate the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Awardee M.S.Subbulakshmi, Sankara Nethralaya and SN OM Trust organized a grand musical tribute by Oscar-winning composer AR
HARISH RAO & SURENDRA ULLAL
the community and also that of FIA comes true by the end of his term, again with the community support. "Associations may come and associations may go in Chicagoland, but my FIA has been there for three decades and it will continue to serve the community. Establishing Gandhiji's statue at a suitable place on Devon Avenue will be a singular achievement of FIA and we at FIA are determined to get it done," he told this paper. "Dr Deepkant Vyas, a St Louis based Indian community activist and a big time help to many a community project, has agreed to lend a big helping hand with an iniFIA President addressing Banquet guests tial donation of $100,000 and I am sure the Chicago comhe was hugely encouraged by munity will not lag behind in pickoverwhelming community support ing up the bill for incidental costs to a proposal to erect Mahatma and maintenance expenses," Gandhi Statue on Gandhi Marg - Minhas said. Devon Avenue. He said he is determined to see that this dream of Cont’d on page 19
the first Indian musician ever to be awarded Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor conferred by the Government of India and also became the first Indian musi-
MS Subbulakshmi
Governor Bruce Rauner
FIA to erect Gandhi statue at Devon Ave CHICAGO: Minhaj Akhtar, President of the Federation of Indian Associations Chicago said here that after the relative less encouraging showing at India Day Parade and the next day Banquet,
Rahman at the United Nations General Assembly hall in New York on August 15, according to Dr Raj Rajaram, trustee of SN OM Trust in Chicago.
The gala musical evening also coincided with the completion of 50 years of M.S.Subbulakshmi's performance in the very same venue in 1966. Subbulakshmi was
cian to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often considered Asia's Nobel Prize. Subbulakshmi, one of the greatest Carnatic musicians of the cen-
tury, was invited by the then United Nations Secretary General late U Thant and the then Chef de Cabinet late C.V. Narasimhan to perform in the UN General Assembly Hall, considered a great honor for India and the music world. She thus became the first Indian to perform at the UN General Assembly. Sankara Nethralaya in its mission of paying international tribute to Subbulakshmi is arranging a grand Carnatic music concert by Padma Bhushan awardee Sudha Raghunathan, a leading Carnatic vocalist and her troupe, also at the United Nations on October 2. As a finale to the global celebrations, Sankara Nethralaya is organizing a musical concert featuring world renowned Indian-origin composer Zubin Mehta, Anoushka Shankar and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra at Lincoln Center in New York City on November 5.
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September 2, 2016
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Siyona Mishra wins South Asian Spelling Bee India Post News Service
NEW BRUNSWICK: Siyona Mishra of Orlando, Florida, correctly spelled the word "zubrowka" (a dry strawcolored chiefly Russian liqueur of vodka flavored with herbs) during the 2016 MassMutual South Asian Spelling Bee Finals to clinch the title of national champion and took home a cash prize of $10,000 from MassMutual. Ananya Kodali from Highland Village, Texas and Shruthika Padhy from Cherry Hill, New Jersey were tied for National Runner-Up at the MassMutual initiative on August 5, which was taped live for broadcast on Sony Entertainment Television. The initiative was organized by leading multicultural advertising firm Touchdown Media Inc. and sponsored by MassMutual, a leading mutual life insurance company that is run for the benefit of its members and participating policy owners. Sony Entertainment Television was the exclusive rights holder and broadcast the initiative across the globe in over 120 countries. Britannia is the presenting sponsor while Kawan Foods returns as the powered by sponsor for the initiative which is now in its 9th year.
"We are truly impressed with these brilliant and talented spellers. We understand
L-R: Candy Chan, Senior Marketing Consultant, Multicultural Marketing, MassMutual, Nimesh Trivedi, Director, Multicultural Marketing, MassMutual, Siyona Mishra, MassMutual South Asian Spelling Bee National Champion, Wonhong Lee, Assistant Vice President, Diverse Markets, MassMutual, and Rahul Walia, founder of The MassMutual South Asian Spelling Bee
their success takes dedicated support from their parents and families. MassMutual shares the same passion about bringing financial education to the South Asian community. It was an honor to be a part of this great event that helps shape our future generation of leaders," said Wonhong Lee, Assistant Vice President, Diverse Markets, MassMutual Financial Group. The special guest at the finals was last year's National Champion, Shourav Dasari, who helped co-host a portion of the initiative. "It fills my heart to see such talented, young spellers from across the country who make us proud as a community. The initiative is unique in its reach and engagement and we are very blessed to have the patronage of these families who make it a prestigious platform. My heartiest congratulations to Siyona." said Rahul Walia, Founder of The MassMutual South Asian Spelling Bee. The initiative was open to children up to 14 years of age and was held in 12 regional centers across the United States. These areas included New Jersey, DC Metro area, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Seattle, New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Bay Area, Charlotte, and the newly added international center in Ghana. The contest was conducted in written and oral format at the regional levels which
served as the elimination as well as selection process for the finalists. After registering their child online, parents brought them to the designated center and a 25-word written test was administered. Children had to spell 15 or more words correctly to qualify for the afternoon oral round and from there the top three were awarded prize money and the top two qualified for the finals. "We are extremely happy with Siyona's win at the Bee as it goes to show that today's South Asian kids are all rounders and highly dedicated to their craft. We produced a special section called "Meet the Spellers" where the viewers will have an opportunity to get to know some of the spellers including Siyona better," said Tim Tan, Managing Director, Kawan Food, makers of the world's most popular Roti Paratha Brand in the world -Kawan Paratha. "Nail Biting contest year after year and I personally was unable to get up during the bee! It's amazing to see the pool of talent from our community and am happy for Siyona Mishra's win and excited to get to know him and some of the other spellers better in the "Meet the Speller" series airing shortly on Sony," said Jaideep Janakiram, Head of North America, Sony Entertainment Television-Asia.
Gurupurnima Samaroh celebrated successfully HARISH RAO
DES PLAINES: Chicago Global Gayatri Pariwar-Gayatri Shaktipeeth Chicago re-
alization of God without Punch Koshi Sadhana. Before Aarti in Punchkosh Sadhana also there are some yoga poses, Aasana, Pranaya, Bandh Mahamudra practicing which one can stay healthy without any medicine. Kiran Chawala from Columbus Ohio narrated yoga poses and described benefits of Yoga and Mahamudra. Guru Purnima souvenir book "Mahakal message" was inaugurated by chief guest Mrs. Santosh Kumar and Main Yajman Dr Dhirenbhai Patel and his wife Kusumben Patel. Santosh Kumar, President of Metropolitan Asian Family SerLaunch of Sovenir during Gurupurnima celebrations vices, stressed on the importance of Guru and Hinduism. cently celebrated Gurupurnima with more At the end Dilipbhai Thakkar proposed than 300 devotees gathering at Lake Opeka, vote of thanks. corner of Lee & Touhy in Des Plaines and performing the Gayatri Yagya. About 108 Kundi Yagyas were performed by the lake on a sunny day. The event started with Dr. Kusum Patel, the chief organizer, explaining the importance of Guru in our life. She said that without Guru - spiritual master one cannot achieve or progress in spiritual field. She also mentioned that Mahakal Katha, is new Katha, and it includes Pragya Puran Katha and Punchkoshi Sadhan. Yagya Aarti at the end of Gurupurnima celebrations She said that one cannot achieve re-
Community Across America
September 2, 2016
India Post 19
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Enthusiastic Janmashtami celebration in Boston GEETHA PATIL
BOSTON: The anniversary of birthday of Lord Krishna "Janmashtami" was celebrated with great gusto and passionate fervor by devotees in Greater Boston, especially in ISKCON temple of Boston. On the occasion, hundreds of devotees paid obeisance to the Lord at this temple on Thursday, 25 August. Lord Krishna, the most revered and devoutly worshipped god of Hindu mythology, was believed to be born on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Shravan in the Hindu calendar which generally comes in the months of August-September of English calendar. This festival was a time of jubilation with its beautifully decked temples and deities. It was celebrated in the temple with Vedic
rituals from early morning until midnight. Early morning session started at 4:45am with Mangala and Tulasi Aarti, Japa, and Darshan Arotik followed by Kirtana at 8:00am. Later Guru Puja, Shrimad Bhagavatam and Hari Katha were performed with utmost devotion. The Raj Bhoga Aarti started at 12. After this, the afternoon session from1pm to 6 pm started with melodious Lord Krishna Bhajans. The evening session of the event started at 6:00pm with Special Prayer Bhajans. It was followed by Puppet Show, Songs, and Sayana Arati. His Holiness Chandramauli Maharaj led the Aarti and Jhulan Yatra and narrated inspirationally many Krishna stories and sang songs in his praise along with the devotees. Bhadra Prabhu led the Abhishek and Kirtan of Lord
Krishna. All the devotees in the temple enjoyed the bathing ceremony (Abhishekam) of Lord Krishna idol with milk, curd, ghee, honey, khandsari and herbal powders along with the chanting of Vedic Mantras. All the deities were adorned in colorful dresses, jewels and pearls after the sacred bathing ceremony. The statue of infant Krishna was placed in a cradle, which is rocked amidst the blowing of conch shells and the ringing of bells. All devotees sang devotional bhajans in chorus and danced by immersing themselves in joy on celebration of this festive occasion. All the devotees were greeting beautiful and delightful baby Krishna by singing in chorus, "Hare Krishna, Hare Rama." A grand Lord baby Krishna Janma
Utsav was celebrated with lots of joy and midnight Aarti. Nandani Priya, Vrajeahwari, Prema Nandani Priya and Gagandeep prepared beautiful flower outfits and gar-
very delicious Prasadam which was distributed with love to all the devotees by the volunteers. Preeti Sharma and team organized the book tables where they sold many
Devotees listening to discourse
lands. Vishaka Priya and Vanamali Pandit planned and structured meticulouslysuch a grand special festive event of the temple. Mahadeo family sponsored a
Krishna and Bhagvad Gita books. The Temple committee thanked all the devotees, sponsors, and dedicated devotees for making this event a grand success.
FIA to erect Gandhi statue at Devon Ave Cont’d from page 17
Devotees singing Bhajans
India association of St Louis celebrates I-Day in big way
Rep. Bill Otto at flag hoisting Cont’d from page 16
This was the fifth event organized by the India Association of St. Louis this year. Previous events included Republic Day celebrations, Spring Festival, hosting of Consul General Dr A.
Sayeed for a community-wide meeting and the annual Visa Camp. The 2016 Board Members of the association are: Mrs Meera Jain- President; Mrs. Shailee Saran Varanasi- President- Elect/CoCultural; Mr. Sendil
Parade at MGC grounds
Rathinasabhapathy - Secretary; Mrs Vijayalakshmi Buddhiraju Treasurer/Co-Cultural; Mr Krishna Rao - Webmaster; Mr Sharath Rao - Publicity; Mr Vijay Buddhiraju - Membership; Mrs Gayatri Chintakunta - Director, Mrs Smita Parikh - Director.
we respect each other's core values - religious and social beliefs and practices. I am one for that. We Indians here should also be helping the cause of our less fortunate brethren in India," he said. Again buttressing his claim, he said it was Nizam of Hyderabad who donated 5000 kg of gold when the country badly needed during mid-sixties war with neighbors. He respects non-meat eating Indians for their strong vegetar-
Touching about the poor attendance at the Parade, he said that one has to bear in mind that the weather in the morning was awfully bad - raining heavily - across Chicago and suburbs. This prevented many from suburbs or far of Chicago places to come to the Parade. Secondly, heavy road repair work on Devon Avenue, that has been there for the past many months, also acted as a dissuading factor. "Another contributory factor was the "We may have Matbhed choice of the date for (difference in opinions) but Parade. It was not August 15 or August 16 we should not have which usually is the Manbhed (estranged case. For tactical rea- minds). We have to see sons we decided for August 20 and that may humanity as a whole” have upset come community members," he said. ian beliefs. Even Prophet For relative thin attendance at Mohammed was for milk and not the Banquet, he said he could not meat as the latter is believed to be vouch for some of the members a disease carrier. Kisan and farm buying the table and then not laborers could eat meat but others showing up. Secondly, a good should use discretion, the Prophet number really got disenchanted advised, according to Minhaj who with a change in venue and serv- often conducts sermons at Chiing of liquor. "It should have been cago mosques. a dry day and our own people need "We may have Matbhed (difto uphold and pitch for our val- ference in opinions) but we should ues," he observed. He cited his not have Manbhed (estranged deft handling of Republic Day cel- minds). We have to see humanity ebrations in January to buttress as a whole and not in sections, and his claim. we have to serve this humanity Minhaj said that he is for the with all our mind and heart," he unity and stability of India and said deprecating dissensions over Indians here. "We can have this if small issues.
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September 2, 2016
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Hundreds celebrate Janamasthami at Iskcon temple SURENDRA ULLAL
CHICAGO: Devotees in hundreds flocked to Hare Krishna ISKCON temple on Lunt Avenue in Chicago on Janmasthami night
ISKCON founder A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada taught that the path to happiness was not found in material pursuits
Devotees at Hare Krishna Temple Kids dress up for Krishna Jayanti celebrativos. -Pics Asian Media USA
to celebrate the appearance of Lord Krishna 5000 years ago. The celebrations on August 25 were highlighted with Bhajans, Discourse, Aarti and Prasadam.
but in simple living, high thinking and in awakening love of God Lord Krishna. ISKCON is rooted in the Gaudiya Vaishnava Sampradaya,
a monotheistic tradition, within Hindu culture. Its tenets include that the soul is eternal and different from the body; that chanting God's names, or mantra meditation, can awaken knowledge of the Self; and that healthy life comes
through the practice of cleanliness, self-discipline, mercy, and truthfulness, and avoiding intoxication, illicit sex, meat-eating and gambling. The festival of Krishna Janmastami-the birth anniversary
of Lord Krishna-has been celebrated since ancient times. The scriptures of India teach that Lord Krishna personally descends to Earth to re-establish religious principles and to save human society from forgetfulness of God.
Free Health Fair at Swaminarayan Temple JAYANTI THAKKER
CHICAGO: A free annual Health Fair - the 39th so far - has been arranged at Midwest Swami Narayan Temple in Itasca, IL on Sunday, September 18, between 8:15 am and 1pm. The Health Fair is one of the temple's regular annual programs. Along with Midwest Swaminarayan Temple, other institutions including Lohana Association of Greater Chicago (LAGC), Gujarati Samaj of Chicago (GSC) and Kadva Patidar Samaj of Chicago (KPS) are also co-sponsoring this event. This is the 39th Health Fair organized by Jayantibhai Thakkar in Chicago land.
The fair is open to all in need of medical checkup and health re-
lated problems. Preregistration is not required. Registration will start
File picture of Health Fair, Itasca
at the temple at 8 am and close at 11 am. The checkup will include testing of Blood Pressure, Blood Testing, Blood Sugar, EKG, Urinanalysis, Eye Screening, Bone Density tests, and ENT exam, Chiropractic Consultation, Physical Therapy, Dental Examination, Hearing Test, Diabetic education program and Physical Examination. This time, there will also be Pediatric and Diabetic doctor. Information about social services and benefits will also be provided. It has also been decided to give
400 free flu shots. Those with Medicare should bring Medicare card, so that more people who do not have Medicare will get free flu shots. Also bring the list of medicines that you are taking, so doctor can review it and advise properly on medication. Approximately 25 volunteer doctors and 85 health care professionals will provide their volunteer services for the event. Patients requiring blood testing are requested to observe fasting for 12 hours before the test. Do not take food after 8 pm from the previous night (Saturday night), but can drink water so it will make easy to draw blood.
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September 2, 2016
India Post 21
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3-hour laugh-a-minute Gujarati comedy show JAYANTI OJHA
CHICAGO: Chicago Art Circle organized a three-hour Gujarati Comedy Show on Sunday August 28 by a renowned artist from Gujarat, Dr Jagdish Trivedi in Carol
More than 250 peoples laughed and enjoyed the variety of cultural jokes and Shayari. Jagdish Trivedi is a follower of the great comedian Shah Budin Rathod.
human life helps him create jokes. All attendees enjoyed each and every moment of his presentation. At the end Vinesh Virani thanked all those who helped him,
Dr Jagdish Trivedi during the comedy show
Audience enjoying jokes.-Pics Jayanti Ojha
Stream, a north side suburb of Chicago. Vinesh Virani and Nilesh Bhrambhat introduced Jagdish Trivedi to members of the audience. JagdishTrivedi has done 42 foreign tours and has written 46 books. Of these, six books got awards from the Gujarat Government.
Trivedi touched upon funny developments in our day to day life with vivacity and a great sense of humor. His great observation of
particularly Mukundbhai Desai, Sanjay Shah as also all the people who made the show a great success.
Trivedi touched upon funny developments in our day to day life with vivacity and a great sense of humor. His great observation of human life helps him create jokes.
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September 2, 2016
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Senior program in St Louis very well received GIRDHAR G SHARMA
Dr Ragunandan Dundoo, MGC founder, presenting flowers to Dr C.Vardhachary, Dr.Chandralant Tailor, Chandan Mahanta & Ashwin Patel
ST LOUIS: Mahatma Gandhi Cultural Center (MGC) hosted a Seniors Social on Sunday, August 21 in St. Louis, MO attended by over 100 residents of the Ameri-
can-Indian community of Greater St. Louis area with more than 65 years of life experiences and wisdom. This free program started with
socializing and lunch at noon followed by informational lectures relevant for the elderly. Geriatrician Dr Miriam Rodin spoke on the topic of "Successful Aging:
Dr Kamal Yadav & SudhaYadav in audience with Dr & Mrs Dundoo
It's in your Hands"; Dr. GV Naidu presented the relevance of "Spiritual Strength"; Dr. Elly Barua Bhuyan spoke on the importance of "Sports/ Activities for Elderly";
Dr Satish Kulkarni presented on "Mental Health awareness" and Cheryl Campbell along with Maggie O'Hara informed seniors on the options of "sizing down & retirement housing". On this occasion, MGC honored Dr Rangaswamy Varadhachary, Dr Mohinder Partap, Chandan Mahanta, Dr Chandrakant & Mrs Ila Taylor and Ashwin Patel for their remarkable contributions and outstanding service to the community. A Live musical entertainment, "Sureeli Yaadein" was provided by Guru Sandhya Anu Pandurangi and group from AnuRag School of Music who sang many golden oldies and Hindi songs requested by the audience. Mahatma Gandhi Cultural Center organized this special program for the seniors, with support from the India Association of St. Louis.
Speakers at senior social & singer Sandhya Pandurangi
Ex-CM Shinde launches IONC Maha Chapter PM SWAMI
NEW YORK: Sushil Kumar Shinde, a former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and former Home Minister of India, formally launched the Maharashtra Chapter of INOC, USA on August 16 at a Manhattan Restaurant and announced Devendra Vora as its new President. Vora hails from Maharashtra and has been an active supporter of the Congress Party and its ideology for a long time. In his speech, Shinde urged
political tranquility at home while achieving sustained growth.' After welcoming the Chief Guest and Sangat Singh Gilzian, MLA from Tanda, Urmur District of Punjab, Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General of INOC, USA, dwelt in some detail upon some of the landmark achievements of the Congress party and how it had transformed India as one of the leading countries of the world. "India is more connected today
The highlight was Shindeji presenting a Shawl to Devendra Vora. Thanking him for the honor, Devendra Vora said that he took his responsibilities seriously Congress supporters not to lose heart but to continue to work hard to earn people's trust again. 'Congress was in similar predicaments before but always came back when people realized that Congress party is their best option to keep
than it has ever been - networks of railways, roads, airlines, information, communication, people and media where new ideas emerge, develop and take flight very rapidly," he said. Gilzian then felicitated the new
Chapter officers and members and was happy to see them join the dozen other Chapters already established since a long time. George Abraham, Chairman,
felicitated the Chief Guest and lauded his brilliant career in politics from his humble beginnings to becoming the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, The highlight was Shindeji pre-
senting a Shawl to Devendra Vora. Thanking him for the honor, Devendra Vora said that he took his responsibilities seriously and would do his best to live up to their expectations.
September 2, 2016
Community Across America
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SubDrift Boston celebrates 4th anniversary GEETHA PATIL
BOSTON Subcontinental Drift's (SubDrift) monthly programs arranged in different cities of America had one such in Boston last week.
Aditya Nochur welcoming members of the audience
It was SubDrift Boston celebrating its fourth birthday on August 25 evening with a grand open Mic program at the venue "Danger! Awesome" in the heart
of Cambridge city, MA. Hundreds of young gifted singers, writers, musicians, dancers, actors, film makers and others gathered to showcase their talents.
Anjali reading poetry
The SubDrift organizer Aditya Nochur welcomed the audience and talent presenters to the event and very proudly stated that the SubDrift Boston completed its 4th
year successfully in Boston this year. The program started with Gaurav Cedric Bhatnagar's short film, "Making a Mark" that fea-
Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form. Gaurav is a designer, developer and entrepreneur who creates interactive experiences, films, apps
Bhajans on account of Lord Krishna Janmashtami. Prof Jaspal Singh sang a special song which was written by him for Roskilde, Denmark, Youth Festival in 1981.
Nora Khan reading poetry
Prof Jaspal Singh singing
Pranav singing
tured a cast and crew of predominantly Indian descent. This film had no spoken dialog and communicated instead through purely cinematic techniques, music, and
that entertain and engage people in learning about and addressing pressing social issues and injustices. Nivedita Mahesh and Shaan Dasan as actors in the film fully justified the theme. Music by Anu Gunn and Aaclip from Sloka by Saraswati Jones added additional attraction to the film. Saraswati Jones, a well-known singer and songwriter based in Boston is also a transmitter of "postcolonial pop rock" music. She presented a wonderful song and mesmerizing mono-acting to the audience as a SubDrift featured act. She draws glimpses of South Asian history, culture, and aesthetics in her music and performances. Saraswati released her first solo EP Lingua Franca in 2013, and she also performs with her band Awaaz Do, which re-imagines classic Bollywood songs as rock and roll anthems. The open Mic program started with melodious devotional
It was translated in more than 40 languages of the world. It calls on the youth of the world to unite and fight against all kind of exploitation and oppression. Monishita Roy presented a brilliant Odissi dance. Many gifted performers both new and seasoned artists showed their flair and feels through poetry, dance, singing, short stories and films, acting, and playing different music instruments. "All the performers were very gifted and talented who demonstrated their voices and souls of their feelings. With their varied talents they transformed this event into an amazing experience. Although this was my first exposure to a South Asian talent show like this one, I can certainty say that it was one of the most invigorating experiences of my life. I felt engaged, excited, and in fact refreshed," said one of the American members of the audience who came with his friend to the event.
Members of the audience
The Bard's ultimate bow: The Tempest ARCHANA ASTHANA
I
t was only poetically fitting for this audience to be witnessing Shakespeare's farewell play on the last night of its performance by Livermore Shakespeare Festival at the scenic and verdant vineyards of Wente Wineries. In this last offering, Shakespeare presents the story of Prospero, the now deposed Duke of Milan, whose dukedom was usurped by his brother, Antonio, with the help of the Queen of Naples. Now inhabiting an island with his teenage daughter, Miranda,
where sprites (spirits) like Ariel, and a "monster" Calaban are enslaved by Prospero to do his bidding. Consumed with revenge for the wrongs done unto him, Prospero, commandingly played by Lawrence Hecht, using his magical prowess, summons his betrayers, along with the co-conspirator, Sebastienne, the Queen's sister, and the loyal Lord Gonzalo, to the island by creating a raging storm and causing shipwrecks. A visually stunning opening scene creates the spell of the tem-
pest, with a raging storm and gusting winds with dramatic effect that holds the mood throughout the play. Ariel's birdlike stance, with her bobbing head truly depicts the spirit of a magical bird, and proves the acting chops of Wenona Truong, who was an understudy for this role! Calaban, as the orphaned son of a witch, "the son of darkness" is grotesquely but sincerely enacted by Brian Herndon, as he crouches and shuffles around, delivering pithy curses. Cont’d on page 25
24 India Post
Community Across America
September 2, 2016
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Media at great risk in India, says report PRAKASH M SWAMY
UNITED NATIONS: A culture of impunity in India is leaving the country's press vulnerable to threats and attacks, according to a top news watch body affiliated to UNO. The report by Committee to Protect Journalists, a (CPJ) finds that regional investigation has failed to secure justice for journalists murdered for their work, and urges the national government to enact legislation that would provide federal oversight. "Small-town reporters and those covering corruption are at greater risk of attack than other journalists, and the reluctance by regional authorities to carry out comprehensive investigations and bring the perpetrators to justice is creating a dangerous climate for the country's press," said Steven Butler, CPJ Asia Program Coordi-
nator. "We urge the central government and the Central Bureau of Investigation to thoroughly investigate the killings of all journalists."
"Small-town reporters and those covering corruption are at greater risk of attack than other journalists, and the reluctance by regional authorities to carry out comprehensive investigations� Since 1992, 27 journalists have been murdered in direct retaliation
for their work India, and no one has been brought to justice. The report, "Dangerous pursuit: in India, journalists who cover corruption may pay with their lives," examines the deaths of three journalists and the authorities' response, highlighting impunity in the killing of journalists, especially those outside of the major urban centers who cover local wrongdoing. Freelancer Jagendra Singh, who died from his injuries after he reported being set on fire by police in June 2015, was covering allegations that a local minister was involved in land grabs and a rape. Before he was shot dead in January 2011, Umesh Rajput was reporting on allegations of medical negligence and claims that the son of a politician was involved in illegal gambling. Investigative re-
porter Akshay Singh was working on a story linked to a $1 billion university admissions racket when he died unexpectedly in July 2015. During an investigative trip to
The report examines the deaths of three journalists and the authorities' response, highlighting impunity in the killing of journalists, especially those outside of the major urban centers India earlier this year, CPJ met with relatives of the three journalists,
as well as lawyers, and members of the press, who explained the challenges in securing justice. The report was written by Sumit Galhotra, CPJ's Asia program senior research associate, and Raksha Kumar, a freelance journalist in India. P.Sainath, an award-winning journalist, wrote the report's foreword, "Journalism as well as journalists in danger from failure to stand up for India's press." Aayush Soni, a freelance reporter in New Delhi, wrote the sidebar, "Pursuit of truth comes at heavy price for India's Right to Information activists." Included in the report is a series of recommendations CPJ has made to the Indian government, the Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh state governments, and the Central Bureau of Investigation.
Success & well being tips at AICC Networking Night ELAYNE P. MCCLAINE & ILAYAS QURAISHI
NEW JERSEY: New Jersey community business members at-
tended the August 24 Asian American Chamber of Commerce (AICC)
evening networking night event which is held every month.
It was a truly enlightening evening. Dr Naveen Mehrotra, on behalf of the SKN, an organization with a mission to promote total wellness of the person and community through education, spoke and entertained questions regarding improving the health of South Asians, particularly those who have recently immigrated. The keynote presentation, "Success without Stress" was delivered by Gautam Jain. This was an amazing opportunity for all in attendance to consider various concepts of Vedanta self-man-
agement. The principles of conquering stress through controlling the intellect were explained. Jain stated, "When the mind wanders over the worries of the past and the anxieties of the future, the result will be lack of productivity". The audience was encouraged to focus on link between productivity and success. The message was wholeheartedly embraced. The AICC Board and members recognized Minesh Patel, owner of the Jewel of India for his support as host of the monthly networking events. Chetan Wattamwar, Network Nite Chair along with other board members Vijay Singhal Michael Green, Ravi Goplan, Rajat Gupta, Rekha Sarathy, Jayesh Mehta, Rajeev Krishna, Elayne P. McClaine and Ilayas Quraishi coordinated the event.
September 2, 2016
Community Across America
India Post 25
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The Bard's ultimate bow: The Tempest Cont’d from page 23
With the island inhabitants increasing in number, so does the drama‌Lisa Tromovitch, the play's director takes some direc-
torial privileges in switching gender roles for more than one situation. The Queen's brother Sebastian is now Sebastienne, acted by Miriam Ani as the sister, who cavorts with Prospero's brother, Antonio, the boomingvoiced Michael Wayne Rice, allowing their relationship to be more clandestine, passionate and conniving! As they plot to murder Lord Gonzalo and the Queen, their at-
tempts are foiled by Ariel and her sprites. In other developments, Ferdinand, the Prince of Naples, acted winsomely by Patrick Andrew Jones, also finds himself on the island, believing his family to
arts, common in Italy in those times for comic relief where actors embody certain characteristics. It is said that the Queen liked them so
conundrum of Calaban as he falls for her after drinking her liquor. The kinesthetic trio more than cater the comic relief!
wrongs done unto one; the everlasting endurance of love; and the power of compassion. All this is delivered with maturity of great
much that she took them with her on her travels. On this stage, they were transformed into Punch and Judy-like characters, brilliantly executed by Narea Kang as Stephano, and Brandon English as Trinculo, the court jester. The drunken cook, Stephano steals the show with her histrionics with the bottle, camaraderie and tom foolery with Trinculo, and the lively
In the end, Prospero is provided with a solution to his restatement in the community by realizing that forgiveness is sweeter than revenge. He forgives Anto-
acting, wrapped up in a cornucopia of delights! The chemistry and synergy among the actors and with the audience was visible in several light hearted exchanges hither
nio, even as the Queen resigns the dukedom and begs Prospero's pardon while joyfully reuniting with her son, Ferdinand. Prospero is restored as the Duke of Milan, while surrendering his magical powers and recovers his strength to rule his dukedom. All's well that ends well in typical Shakespearean peace and harmony. Ariel's sweet singing of her final song clinches her freedom from Prospero and return to the elements. Calaban realizes his folly in mixing up with the jokers, and in a sense is freed as well. The story is rich with the mellowness of forgiveness despite the
and thither, and all involved thoroughly enjoyed the performance in a relaxed setting. Another interesting facet to the LSF story is their community involvement. Several times throughout the year, the company, under Lisa's leadership, engages with elementary school teachers from the Livermore Unified School District, to create and deliver a common core aligned curriculum of their adaptation of Midsummer Night's Dream in a user friendly fashion. Just what the kids need‌to be able to access and interpret great literature in a way comprehensible to them.
be dead or lost. His encounters with Miranda, the lovely Lindsey Marie Schmelter have him suitably enamored. Ariel's sweet singing and spells ensure their fates will be sealed so she can be the Queen of Naples! In a conversation, Lisa Tromovitch enlightened me to the Bard's take on the tradition of Comedia del
Community Across America
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September 2, 2016
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Avail deep discounts on PG&E energy bills India Post News Service
SAN FRANCISCO, CA: Thousands of customers could save up to 20 percent or more on their monthly energy bill by taking a simple step enrolling in Pacific Gas and Electric Company's (PG&E) California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program. The CARE program gives income-qualified households deep discounts on their energy bills, but nearly one in 10 eligible customers are not signed up for the program and are missing out on significant savings. "Our CARE program is an important part of providing affordable service to our customers. We encourage all our customers to learn more about CARE, and the variety of other programs we offer, to help them manage their energy costs and lower their monthly bill," said PG&E Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer Laurie Giammona.
PG&E estimates about 200,000 customers throughout its service area could save on their monthly costs by enrolling in CARE. In Sacramento County alone, which has the largest number of eligible customers not enrolled, more than 44,000 households could lower their bills. Top Counties with Most Eligible Customers Not Enrolled
Eligible Households Not Enrolled
1. Sacramento
44,412
2. Alameda
17,765
3. San Francisco
14,081
4. San Luis Obispo 13,695 5. San Mateo
12,897
6. Sonoma
11,596
7. Placer
10,042
8. Santa Clara
9,990
9. Stanislaus
7,669
10. Marin
7,247
CARE Income Guidelines*
Every year, the California Public Utilities Commission adjusts the maximum qualifying income levels for CARE to reflect changes in the federal poverty guidelines. CARE is funded through a rate surcharge paid by all utility customers. Currently, more than 1.4 million qualified customers throughout Northern and Central California are enrolled in CARE. PG&E has helped customers save more than $7.8 billion on their energy bills through the program. Customers can apply for CARE online or via paper applications that are available through numerous community agencies throughout PG&E's service area. Applying is easy and only takes about five minutes. If they qualify, customers will begin receiving the CARE program discount within
their next billing cycle. The Energy Savings Assistance Program can help customers already participating in the CARE Program save more energy and money with free energy-saving improvements to maximize energy efficiency in their home. Every year, the California Public Utilities Commission adjusts the maximum qualifying income levels for CARE to reflect changes in the federal poverty guidelines. CARE is funded through a rate surcharge paid by all utility customers.
Household
Income Eligibility
Size
Upper Limit
1-2
$32,040
3
$40,320
4
$48,600
5
$56,880
6
$65,160
7
$73,460
8
$81,780
Each Additional Person
$8,320
* Effective June 1, 2016 to May 31, 2017
To learn more about the CARE Program, visit www.pge.com/care. To learn more about the Energy Savings Assistance Program, v i s i t w w w. p g e . c o m / energysavings.
Islamic society annual meet on grand scale ASHFAQ SYED
CHICAGO: Islamic Society of and activists, featured speakers North America (ISNA), one of the this year include those who have oldest organizations of North made headlines such as Khizr and America completing its 52 years Ghazala Khan, Lonnie Ali (Widow of service to the Community, plans of Muhammad Ali) Ibtihaj hosting its 53rd Annual Conven- Muhammad and Professor Larycia tion from September 2 to 5 in Chi- Hawkins. cago. In addition to the main program, The Annual Convention is one there is also a young professionof the largest gatherings of Mus- als track, a youth track (MYNA) lims in North America with atten- and a track for university students dance of about 15,000 guests from (MSA). A Children's Program and all walks of lifeline fosters the de- Carnival will also take place for velopment of community through young children. convention, conferences, education, forums, interfaith activities, youth programs In addition to the main proand other avenues. gram, there is also a young During the convention, there will be mul- professionals track, a youth tiple session formats track (MYNA) and a track for to examine turning points like Navigating university students (MSA). A Challenges, Seizing Children's Program and CarOpportunities. The nival will also take place broad goal will be to look at how to navigate through challenges and respond effectively. Several special events such as Sessions will explore how to orga- a film festival, art exhibit, photognize and empower the communi- raphy exhibit, basketball tournaties to seize the opportunities to ment, an entrepreneurial competistrengthen faith, to impart its tion will take place throughout the teachings and to address socially weekend. Additionally, a health fair complex issues facing Muslims will provide services including a and society at large. bone marrow drive, blood drive and Along with renowned scholars health screenings.
Horoscope
September 2, 2016
India Post
27
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Sept 2nd - Sept 8th 2016 Please send your birthday, place of birth and time, so I can give you your zodiac sign, according to Vedic astrology. Send to Jaysastrology@gmail.com
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rofessional matters are ok, good and bad. Week is good for those who are in job and for students who are appearing in competitions. Some of you are likely to get promoted, if birth planets are strong. Those who are appearing in selections may get good results. Relationship area looks good, can get emotional attachment and travel with partner is there.
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rofessional matters is ok. Some gains through real estate assets are likely. The week is better for parents. Status improves with help of friends in high places. Can spend time with family and enjoy company. Can purchase a new car wants to look good get groomed. Can invest in real estate property. Mental peace this week is there as less stress. May visit temple or spiritual leader .
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he professional matters continue to face obstructions, setbacks and delays as Mars is in 8 th house. The week makes you emotional and strong. The health of father may need care continue care. Handle all matters including relationship matters with patience. It is better to avoid haste and conflicts. Take care of your health and enjoy time with famly and children. Stay calm.
he professional matters for this week looks very good. Some of you may be rewarded and your work gets recognition. Those expecting promotion may get the same if birth planets are strong. Social interaction and communications increase. The new professional opportunities are likely. Enjoy children and can invest in stock market or speculation.
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he professional matters are good as you take self effort to take leadership. Some of you may get the reward or recognition in job. The week is good for students and for those who are appearing in selections. Avoid starting new ventures as stress and losses and expenses are seen especially in foreign land. Can purchase an asset like house . Spend time with family and have a good time.
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he professional matters are looking ok as you try to take leadership role. mental peace is disturbed. Some additional expense is likely. Take care of your health. Avoid aggressive behaviour and conflict. Financial litigation regarding property matters is there. This week avoid at any cost disputes. Make things right at home with your cooperation in household. Patience is your remedy.
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he professional matters look good in all aspects for promotion s and recognition if natal planets are strong. Social communications increases among friend circle, visitors at home. Relationship matters are good may even start new friendships. Avoid haste, conflicts, speculation, aggressive behaviour and unnecessary driving. Conflicts and financial concerns are likely to continue.
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rofessional matters looks good with self effort, and travel for work is seen. Handle relationship matters with patience, as conflict regading expenses can trigger conflicts. Take care of health of child. It is better to excercise patience and avoid speculations, conflicts and unnecessary driving. Put any new ventures on hold as it can lead to debts and disputes. Stay focused.
he professional matters looks good and improvement in status Help from wife is there in managing assets. Hold off new ventures keep them pending for better plantary period. Take care of your health and see doct o r i s r e q u i r e d . Av o i d haste, conflicts, unnecessary expenses and driving/ travel. Sudden setbacks, obstructions and delays likely.
he professional matters are looking good as Jupiter helps. Some additional income is likely. The new business opportunities should be put on hold up to January, 2017. The child may need special attention upto September, 2016. Avoid speculation. Patience is the best medicine during this year. Focus on your children avoid getting emotionally attached in relationships.
he professional matters looks very good. Some new gainful opportunities are likely. Delays and obstructions are likely in the sources of income. Manage obstructions with patience. It is better to avoid manipulations. Spend time with younger siblings as they can be an asset to you and take a short trip. Relationship matters takes a back road this week. Anxiety is seen and frustrations .
rofessional matter are ok. May require travel for work. Focus on children. Avoid in speculation. Look after father. Some additional income is seen. Can invest in real estate. Bonding with family and even rise in status is seen. May purchase car. Relationship wise setbacks are there. Mental peace is disturbed can cause lack of sleep. Week brings up and downs.
This weekly horoscope is more focused and accurate as these are based on ascending signs. The ascending sign is worked out on the basis of your date, time and place of birth. You will find the predictions at other places based on your Sun sign or Moon sign. The Sun remains in one sign of zodiac for one month whereas the Moon remains in one sign for about 54 hours. It is the ascending sign, which changes every couple of hours." That is how this site offers you more focused predictions.
JATIN P - ACHARYA MIHIR • JAYSASTROLOGY@GMAIL.COM • 630-675-7148
TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS
1 Kala Chashma: Baar Baar Dekho 2 Tere Sang Yaara: Rustom 3 Jag Ghoomeya: Sultan 4 Sau Tarah Ke: Dishoom 28 India Post
September 2, 2016
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While American actress Jennifer Lawrence topped the list for the second consecutive year with a whopping 46 million dollar payday
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oining the league of Hollywood A-list ers, Deepika Padukone recently made her way to the most coveted list of world's highest-paid actresses by Forbes. While American actress Jennifer Lawrence topped the list for the second consecutive year with a whopping 46 million dollar payday, the 30-yearold Bollywood actress is at the tenth spot with gross earnings of 10 million dollars. The 'Hunger Games' star's impressive income majorly consists of a profit slice from 653.4 million, the box office collection of the final flick of 'Hunger Games' franchise and a mammoth upfront fee for the forthcoming space adventure movie, 'Passengers'. Together, the highest paid actresses of the world garnered a joint pre-tax amount of 205 million dollars between June 2015 and June 2016.
5 Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai: Sultan 6 Toota Jo Kabhi Tara : A Flying Jatt 7 Sau Aasmaan: Baar Baar Dekho 8 Tu Hai : Mohenjo Daro 9 Ikk Kudi : Udta Punjab 10 Beat Pe Booty : A Flying Jatt
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ctor Tiger Shroff says a lot of his fans are children and that's why he wants to essay clean and noble characters on screen. "I am lucky that most of my fan following is made of kids, so I try to choose my characters accordingly. They (children) are the future of our country and I want to do very clean, noble characters so that I d o n ' t wrongly influence t h e m through m y films. It's all for my kiddy fans," Tiger said. Tiger will next be seen in Remo D'Souza's 'A Flying Jatt.' He said "I just hope critics appreciate my work in this film. This is for the first time I am
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ccording to the latest buzz, Aamir Khan, who is busy with his next venture, 'Dangal', based on ace Haryanvi wrestler Mahavir Phogat has zeroed in on another project. It is learnt that the perfectionist has been roped in to play veteran actor Sunil Dutt in Sanjay Dutt's biopic, to be helmed by Rajkumar Hirani. Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani is currently busy scripting the biopic and it will see various facets of Sanju Baba's life, ranging from his childhood to adulthood. When Aamir Khan was approached for the role, he was extremely happy to play late Sunil Dutt and immediately signed on the dotted line. Ranbir Kapoor will enact the role of Sanjay Dutt.
experimenting with action and comedy. I think we have done a great job." 'A Flying Jatt' will see Tiger portray a flawed Punjabi superhero who is still coming to terms with his powers. The film also features Jacqueline Fernandez a n d Nathan Jones.
September 2, 2016
Bollywood
India Post 29
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onam Kapoor says a biopic should be made on the leg endary sprinter PT Usha. The actress was asked if she feels biopics on sportswomen P V Sindhu and Sakshi Malik, who have earned medals at the Rio Olympics, should be made and Sonam said before that the inspirational story of PT Usha should be brought on the big screen. "I have already done one (biopic) 'Neerja'. Whatever good (referring to biopic) comes my way I will do that. I think
before making a biopic on them (P V Sindhu and Sakshi Malik) there should be one on P T Usha. I think it will be an interesting one," Sonam told reporters at an event. "Films on sports should be encouraged as it inspires people. India should also be known for sports," she said. The 31-year-old actress, who was present with Australian swimmer and Olympic medalist Stephanie Rice, was talking at Women Entrepreneurs' Exhibition, hosted by the Ladies' Wing of the Indian Merchant Chamber (IMC).
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n an interview with DNA, Nargis Fakhri has revealed about why she left the country suddenly and the reason for avoiding the media. She says she had been keeping extremely unwell. "When I came here, I had arsenic and lead poisoning and no one knew what was wrong with me. The doctor tested me, but he was so scared because it was at a very high level and I asked him 'What do I do?'" she was quoted as saying. Nargis added that she cured herself with the help of Naturopathy and Ayurveda as she had seen her mother fighting cancer with "the herbal stuff and tinctures", and the results amazed the doctor.
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fter wowing us with her "revenge bod" and getting us all groovy with a trippy new song from an upcoming film, Katrina Kaif is determined to get back in the game. She hasn't signed on anything new in a long time but she seems resolved about her career picking up steam as soon as she returns from the US where she's performing live along with Varun Dhawan, Alia Bhatt, Sidharth Malhotra and her new `buddy' Aditya Roy Kapoor. It is learnt that the beautiful actor is vying to be cast opposite Dhawan in the third installment of Remo D'Souza's successful 'ABCD (Anybody Can Dance)' films. Not only is she a great dancer, she feels her pairing with a younger and baby-faced actor like Dhawan might just work wonders for her.
GOLMAAL GAL
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According to her, if a doctor is surprised at the effect of Naturopathy and Ayurveda, then something's wrong with the modern medical system, and that "we should know our own bodies and learn these things in school."
t was always meant to be a toss-up between these two actresses but, according to an insider, it is Shraddha Kapoor and not Alia Bhatt who has reportedly bagged 'Golmaal Again'. When filmmaker Rohit Shetty was planning the fourth installment of his successful franchise, 'Golmaal', he was clear that besides his usual boy gang of Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Tusshar and Shreyas Talpade, he would also cast a younger hero and heroine. That's when the names of Alia and Shraddha cropped up. Recently, the director is said to have told media persons that he may have his favorite leading lady Kareena Kapoor Khan, who is currently in the family way, do a guest appearance in his film or rope her in for a song.
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India Post
SATYAGRAH SOULS Indian Americans Making A Difference
September 2, 2016
www.indiapost.com
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ATYAGRAH SOULS is a monthly political series presented by Silicon Valley's community leader, Saratoga Councilmember Rishi Kumar, in highlighting the community involvement and success of Indian Americans in the United States. This series seeks to inspire us in giving back to our local community. We Indian Americans are going through a transitional evolution, as we get entrenched in a new world, embracing new culture, exerting zealous work ethics, supporting the American economy as entrepreneurs, high tech geeks, doctors, lawyers and more. We are definitely impos-
ing the positive intentions and good citizen values upon this fantastic country and making a huge impact. But can our involvement run a bit deeper with issues near and dear to our hearts, perhaps within our local city, or with the local public school that our children attend? Do we sometimes hear our conscience imploring, "Am I doing enough?" Yes we can get involved just a bit more, push our comfort zone and enhance the learning and impact our involvement. Our involvement can simply start with developing a healthy curiosity in our local community, instead of being
Political empowerment can be in many forms
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anak, we are so proud of you. You are the first Indian American Legis lator of Colorado. Many states with a more populous Indian American population have not achieved that yet. How did that happen in Colorado? When I moved to Colorado 37 years ago, there were very few Indians here. Colorado Springs has increased its Asian population but it is still very small. Even though the State is purple now, my district is Republican leaning. I had registered as Republican since everyone I know was too. One thing led to the other, I became active in the party. Eventually became grass root activist and ran for City Council. I lost that election but other activists came to know me. After I retired from medical practice, I was encour-
aged to run for State office. I was endorsed by the retiring Senator & the State Representative which helped a lot. I won the race in 2010 uncontested. So I would say yes, the ethnic mix helps, but ultimately how much involved and known, you are both socially & politically, makes all the difference. From being a medical professional to now a "career politician". Describe to us the morphing and the reason for the switch. Did public service turn out to be what you expected? I was addressed as Doctor Joshi and am still being addressed as such. So I would say my morphing to a "Career Politician" has not occurred yet. I like that. I still con-
'busy' bystanders. Once we get involved, we will quickly discover, how easy it is for us to make progressive change happen and how receptive everyone around is, to leverage our skills for it. There are leaders waiting to be discovered, why not "me", by taking that first step? The give-back experience can be freeing, energizing personally rewarding and transformative at the same time. There are many who have made their mark in doing just that. With this monthly series, we want to highlight these Satyagrah souls who are showing us the path. Here is a Satyagrah soul, who has found the calling‌
- BY RISHI KUMAR
The first Indian American Legislator in Colorado S
tate Rep. Janak Joshi is a retired physician, grassroots activist and resident of Colorado Springs for more than 38 years. Rep. Joshi was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 2010 Rep. Joshi came to the United and served until 2016. He is the first States 37 years ago with a dream, a member of Indian suitcase and $100. origin to be elected He wanted to keep to the Colorado this dream alive for Legislature. He all our children. has served on EduRep. Joshi has cation, Finance, been very involved Health and Approin his local and the priation Commitmedical commutees. He is the nity. He has Ranking member worked with Crime of the Health, InStoppers, Amerisurance and Envican College of Phyronment Commitsician Executives tee. and the American Rep. Joshi Medical AssociaRepresentative Janak Joshi brings a wealth of tion. expertise in health care policy and Rep. Joshi is also an international small business. Rep. Joshi ran a prac- health care policy expert, especially on tice in Colorado Springs for 30 years the policies of Germany, England, specializing in Internal Medicine, Spain, Netherlands, and former Soviet Nephrology, and Occupational Medi- Union. cine. He was a small business owner He has been married for 41 years of medical clinic and dialysis centers and is the father of two daughters and and employed as many as 50 people. is a grandfather. sider being elected as giving back to my community. However eventually people do see you as a politician. There were times when the bills required a "NO" vote, that as a physician, I might have said "YES", and those were the hardest decisions. Regardless, public service is very humbling experience. When I look at the pictures of State Legislatures from last hundred years in the Capital, most of them, no one remembers. That is a real eye-opener, but still you are part of the history.
Representative Janak Joshi, left, introduces the resolution to honor Mahatma Gandhi and his work with Representative Joann Ginal looking on
A MONTHLY POLITICAL SERIES
Campaigning is a key component of running for office. Sometimes the story is good and sometimes the story not as good. Any
specific ideas for our readers on how to run a great campaign? Campaigning is a very unique experience. Unless you have been a candidate, there are no short cuts to that. Every campaign has good, bad and ugly. When your name appears on the first page of the newspaper in not so nice a way, that is the hardest day for every candidate. You have to accept that as a way of the candidate's life. But that is even harder on your family and friends. That is why many qualified people do not run for public office. Cont’ d on page 31
September 2, 2016
SATYAGRAH SOULS Indian Americans Making A Difference
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Every little thing about your personal life will become public. My advice to anyone thinking about running would be to prepare for worst. Saying that, you can emphasize on your positive side, your ethnic background, qualifications and community service. You should have supporters who would defend you against the attacks while you can campaign on issues. Above all make sure your family is in, one hundred percent. As you look back at your 3 terms as a legislator in Colorado, what are some of the highlights? When I was elected in 2010, healthcare issues were in the forefront. With my healthcare background, I was able to navigate and also help my colleagues through it. It took me a while to learn the legislative process. Now it is easier. I also know some of the history behind each bill. I have sponsored a bill that is "Right To Try". This bill allows terminally ill patients to request a drug that is still in trial but has been beneficial. FDA can give the drug before its final approval. It PASSED unanimously. Colorado was the first State to pass. Now 31 States have passed it. It was also
Rep Janak Joshi campaigning
included in the Republican Party platform at the July 2016 convention. I have sponsored a Resolution honoring Mahatma Gandhi. Colorado is the first State to do so. During the introduction and passage of it, Consul General of India, Houston and many community leaders were present in both Chambers. The priest from the Hindu Temple said the prayer and "Vaishnavajan‌" was recited in the House of Representatives. As a community, what are you doing to get more Indian Americans elected to office in Colorado? The Indian Community in Colorado is relatively small. Most of us are professionals. We are still mostly socializing within our own communities. We have many "factions", so we do not participate directly in the political process. Since I have been elected, we have seen some "coming together" at Indian community meetings. People are curious and asking questions about the political process. I have invited children to recite the pledge of allegiance to the House at the Capital. I have brought other elected officials to the temple festi-
Political empowerment can be in many forms vals. I am looking into starting PACs, Small Donor Committee etc. so we can help other Indian candidates financially. You were at the India Parade in California. Describe to us your experience? I was fortunate to be part of the celebration at the India Day Parade in Fremont. I was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and participation by the Indians as well as other local communities. It was very well organized. My salute to organizers like Dr Japra and Rishi Kumar. I met so many friendly people. They all waited for the full parade in hot sun. The stalls with food and other items were amazing. It seemed to me that we still miss our ethnic heritage. Events like these fill that void. It also reminds our children and grandchildren about their heritage. The floats gave them the glimpse of it. I enjoyed it so much that if invited, I will keep coming back and hope that the parade will be bigger and better next year. Is political empowerment important for the future of our Indian American community in this country? Most of us will be American for eternity. This is our home now. This is the future for our next generation. We have to be involved not just socially and professionally, but politically too. If we are going to defend our religious liberty, ability to teach our children about our ethnic heritage etc. we will have to engage politically. That does not mean that all of us have to run for political office. Political empowerment can be in many different forms. One can be an activist for a particular cause. Another person may get involved in a campaign or a party organizer. We have to encourage our children to get engaged in schools and colleges. They can run for student associations or clubs. These could be Rotary Clubs, Chamber of Commerce, School Boards etc. Once you learn about the system, help and support the candidates. It only takes few hours a month or so, but will have long lasting effect. What advice do you have for the young Indian American who is inspired by your leadership? How should they get going? In Colorado where Indians are really a 'minority', I have found youngsters are very intrigued by me in the State House. It is very intimidating just to be in the Capital.
When I invite these young citizens to the locally and nationally who are making things House Floor, they get very excited. I have happen. These perspectives will help coninvited them to recite the Pledge of Alle- struct roadmaps for our community to emgiance that we do at the beginning of each day. They feel very privileged to have a certificate and picture with the Speaker. I advise them and their parents to not be intimidated by the big dome of the Capital and to volunteer in the offices of their elected officials. If interested they can work as legislative aides. They should volunteer in campaigns. One of our daughters did exactly that. Long before I was elected, she worked as an intern for a congressman and legisla- Representative Janak Joshi (left) and State Senator Kent Lambert tive aide. That helped her (right) stand with Consul General of India Mr. P. Harish with her Graduate School admission. I am proud to say that recently power ourselves, to hopefully ignite a deshe received Boren Fellowship to go to sire in all of us to represent our local comMozambique and Fulbright Scholarship to munities as doers, leaders, establish and entrench ourselves in this glorious country go to Brazil next year. Anyone who wants to do this, I will be of America and help make it a better place very happy to talk to them and guide them **** through it. Janak thank you! We wish you success ABOUT RISHI: Rishi is an elected city with all future endeavors. councilmember in Saratoga, CA and politically active in the state of California, **** Dear Readers, Do you have a story to he continues to follow his passion for comshare? We invite you to introduce us to munity service, seeking to provide services folks in your community who are making a to his citizens cheaper, faster and better, difference - we would love to profile them. making a difference. Rishi has community Are there similar stories you are familiar with outreach and engagement a key focus for his political leadership. As Saratoga's community organizer, Rishi is host of many community events in Saratoga, many of which are free and always inclusive usually addressing a need or a cause. Rishi's day job is as a Silicon Valley hi-tech executive but his zeal for community service effervescent. Rishi is also the Consul General of India Mr. P. Harish presenting a book on Gandhi President of the Bay to the Speaker of the House, Dickey Lee Hullinghorst while Rep Area Indian AmeriJanak Joshi looks on can Democratic locally. The ones who helped address a Club (www.baiadc.org) whose charter is simple issue in the community to make life a to further the interests and values of Inbit better. Perhaps someone you know de- dian Americans, work towards political cided to make a run for school board, was empowerment and advance ethical stanappointed to the planning commission. Pro- dards in the political system. You can reach vide us your insights on Indian Americans him via his website www.RishiKumar.com.
„ Health
Line
Having no friends as deadly as smoking Not having friends may be as deadly as smoking, according to a new Harvard study which found a link between social isolation and levels of a blood-clotting protein which can cause heart attacks and stroke. Loneliness triggers the 'fight or flight' stress signal which increases levels of the protein fibrinogen in case of injury and blood loss, researchers said. However, too much fibrinogen is bad for the body as it could raise blood pressure and cause the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries. Researchers from Harvard University in the US compared levels of fibrinogen with the number of friends and family in a person's social network and found a link between the two. As the number of social connections fell, the level of the blood clotting protein rose, researchers said. Those who had only five people in their social network had 20 per cent higher levels fibrinogen than people with 25. Researchers found that having 10-12 fewer friends had the same impact on fibrinogen levels as taking up smoking. According to researchers, social isolation leaves people feeling threatened and vulnerable which activates an ongoing 'fight or flight' response which can be dangerous in the long run, 'The Telegraph' reported. -PTI
„ Strides gets FDA nod for constipation drug NEW DELHI: Strides Shasun says it has received an approval from the UShealth regulator for Polyethylene Elycol 3350 used for treating constipation. In a BSE filing, Strides Shasun said: "It has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for Polyethylene Glycol 3350, powder for solution 17 grams/capful and 17 grams/packet (OTC)". The company said it will manufacture the product at its Bangalore plant and launch the product in the fourth quarter of this fiscal. Quoting IMS sales data, Strides Shasun said the US market for Polyethylene Glycol 3350, powder for solution is around USD 260 million. Strides Shasun's shares were trading 0.88 per cent higher at Rs 973.50 apiece on BSE. -PTI
Health Science
Comatose man's brain started with ultrasound
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Prices up, choices down in Illinois health insurance CHICAGO: Higher prices and fewer choices on the Illinois marketplace under President Barack Obama's health insurance law will make choosing a plan for 2017 a potentially frustrating experience for families who buy their own coverage, according to information released by the Illinois Department of Insurance. Statewide, an average price increase of 43 percent is ahead for a popular type of middle-tier coverage used as a benchmark under the health law, the department said. The price of that benchmark plan - the second lowest cost Silver plan - will increase by as much as 71 percent in Madison, Monroe and St. Clair counties. Lack of choice is another problem. In eight counties, only one company - Blue Cross Blue Shield - will sell individual coverage for 2017. Major insurers such as Aetna and UnitedHealthcare have left the health law's marketplaces in Illinois and other states because of costs. In Illinois, the nonprofit Land of Lincoln Health is folding after suffering heavy losses. Consumers will be able to shop around and possibly switch health plans for 2017 when enrollment begins Nov. 1. But many parts of the state will have fewer than 20 plans to choose from, the insur-
ance department said. The department cautioned consumers to look at provider networks as well as price when choosing a plan to make sure preferred doctors and hospitals are included. In a statement, Gov. Bruce
policies that truly provide better choices for Illinois residents.'' The Obama administration said that for the vast majority of consumers, subsidies will cushion the impact of premium increases. Many people buy individual policies outside of the health law's
Gov. Bruce Rauner
Rauner blamed the rate increases on failings of President Barack Obama's health care overhaul. ``It's very unfortunate that the major structural flaws in the Affordable Care Act are forcing higher rates and harming the Illinois families who need coverage the most,'' Rauner said. ``It is clear that Congress must enact smarter
marketplaces, and they receive no subsidies. Illinois regulators are still reviewing rate requests for off-marketplace health plans. The rates requested for plans will be made final in October at the federal level. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois spokeswoman Kristen Cunningham said Land of
Lincoln's closure ``underscores the need for all health care industry stakeholders - insurers, doctors, hospitals and regulators to work together on solutions to ensure a stable and sustainable individual market for the long term.'' ``We're confident the 2017 individual rates we have filed are reasonable and actuarially justified, based on our experience in the market and projected costs next year,'' Cunningham said in an email. ``In order to continue offering plans in 2017, we need to price our products for the anticipated health care needs for the entire market.'' The eight counties where Blue Cross will be the only insurer on the marketplace are McHenry, Lake, Kendall, Grundy, Lawrence, Madison, St. Clair and Monroe. Stephani Becker of Shriver National Center on Poverty Law said lack of competition in those counties is ``definitely disappointing, but also much more common this year.'' A total of six insurers will sell policies in at least some parts of the state. Information on provider networks, deductibles and other features of the health plans won't be available until later this year, possibly not until the marketplace opens Nov. 1. -AP
Clinton proposes fund to combat Zika LAGUNA BEACH, Calif.: As the Zika virus continues to spread, Hillary Clinton is proposing a new fund to improve the federal government's response to major public health crises. The Democratic presidential nominee says the US is failing to sufficiently invest in public health preparedness, not only for Zika, but health threats from potentially pandemic diseases, climate change and possible bioterrorism. If elected, Clinton would create what she's calling a ``Public Health Rapid Response Fund'' to
help federal agencies and local hospital systems respond faster and more aggressively - similarly
to how the government responds to a natural disaster. The program would allow the executive branch
Hillary Clinton looks at anti-mosquito products as she takes a tour of Borinquen Health Care Center in Miami to see how it is combatting Zika.
to deploy money and other resources without having to wait for congressional approval. Clinton's proposal is similar to legislation introduced by Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, that would release funds after the secretary of health and human resources declares a public health emergency. Under their proposal, after a federal audit, agencies involved in the response effort would pay half the money back. The other half would be designated as emergency spending and not repaid. Cont'd on Page 34
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Kentucky's Medicaid plan being reviewed FRANKFORT, Ky.: Health insurance for more than 400,000 Kentuckians is at stake as federal officials begin reviewing a plan submitted by Gov. Matt Bevin to overhaul the state's Medicaid program. The proposal, dubbed Kentucky HEALTH, now heads to the federal Department of Health and Human Services, which jointly operates the program with the state and must approve any changes following a 30 day public comment period and negotiations with state officials. The stakes are high. If the federal government does not approve a proposal to Bevin's liking, the Republican governor has said he would repeal the state's expanded Medicaid program, causing more than 400,000 people to lose their health insurance. ``If there are not structural changes made, there will not be the ability to have expanded Medicaid in Kentucky. That's just the reality of it,'' Bevin told reporters. ``So the ball is in HHS' court.'' The new proposal only affects the more than 400,000 people who have health insurance through Kentucky's expanded Medicaid program, mostly able-bodied adults. Since announcing the plan in June, Bevin said he has received nearly 1,350 written comments, prompting some changes. In one substantial change, the
program would continue paying for allergy testing and private duty nursing, two benefits that Bevin initially proposed to eliminate. The plan would still require people to pay monthly premiums of up to $15, penalizing people who don't pay by locking them out of their insurance for up to six months. But the new plan eliminates premiums and copays for the ``medically frail.'' That category now includes people in hospice care, HIV and AIDS patients and people receiving federal disability benefits. The plan would still force people to get a job or volunteer at least 20 hours per week to keep their health insurance benefits. But under the new plan, people who care for non-dependents, such as elderly parents, would still qualify for insurance benefits. And anyone who is the primary caregiver for a disabled adult would be exempt from the requirement. The proposal would still eliminate automatic dental and vision benefits, instead requiring people to pay for those services by earning credits in a ``My Rewards Account.'' But Bevin said he will delay those changes by three months and give people more opportunities to stock those accounts by awarding credit for earning a GED. Other tweaks include charging monthly
'Painless' diabetes cure with insulin pill
U
S scientists have developed an oral method of administering insulin that can be a less painful alternative to millions of people worldwide with diabetes who have to inject themselves with the drug to manage their bloodsugar levels. The team has successfully encapsulated insulin using Cholestosomes - a neutral, lipid-based particle - that can be administered orally with tiny vesicles that
Computer modeling showed that once the lipids are assembled into spheres, they form neutral particles resistant to attack from stomach acids. can deliver insulin where it needs to go without injecting. The biggest obstacle to delivering insulin orally is ushering it through the stomach intact. Proteins such as insulin are no match for the harsh, highly acidic environment of the stomach. They degrade before they get a chance to move into the intestines and then the bloodstream where they're needed, the study said. However, the new vesicles that are
made of naturally occurring lipid molecules are normal building blocks of fats, the researchers said, adding that they are unlike other lipid-based drug carriers, called liposomes. "Most liposomes need to be packaged in a polymer coating for protection. Here, we are just using simple lipid esters to make vesicles with the drug molecules inside," said lead researcher Mary McCourt, Professor at Niagara University in New York, US. Computer modeling showed that once the lipids are assembled into spheres, they form neutral particles resistant to attack from stomach acids. Drugs can be loaded inside, and the tiny packages can pass through the stomach without degrading. When cholestosomes reach the intestines, the body recognizes them as something to be absorbed. The vesicles pass through the intestines, into the bloodstream, and then cells take them in and break them apart, releasing insulin. Studies with rats showed that certain formulations of cholestosomes loaded with insulin have high bioavailability, which means the vesicles travel into the bloodstream where the insulin needs to be, the researchers concluded. The results were presented at the 252nd National Meeting and Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS), in Philadelphia, recently. -PTI
premiums based on households, not individuals, so a married couple would pay one premium instead of two. Bevin had originally said he wanted the federal government to give him an answer by Sept. 30. But he backed off from that saying ``we're not going to hold it hostage to a set date, but time is of the essence.'' Health and Human Services spokeswoman Marjorie Connolly said the agency
Some health care advocates were generally supportive of Bevin's changes, but still criticized the plan for charging premiums and imposing penalties is prepared to negotiate ``for as long as it takes to find a solution that maintains and builds on Kentucky's historic progress, and avoids moving backwards.'' Under former Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear, Kentucky was one of 32 states that expanded its Medicaid program through the federal Affordable Care Act. More than 400,000 people got health insurance as a result, cutting the state's uninsured rate to 7.5 percent from more than 20 percent -
among the largest such drops in the country. But the massive influx of beneficiaries was much more than state officials predicted. Bevin says the program will cost taxpayers $1.2 billion by 2021. He says Kentucky can't afford it, given its estimated public pension debt of more than $30 billion. Advocates have warned Bevin's changes would undo much of the state's progress over the last few years by making it harder for poor people to get health insurance. Some health care advocates were generally supportive of Bevin's changes, but still criticized the plan for charging premiums and imposing penalties for not paying them. Save Kentucky Healthcare, the group former Gov. Steve Beshear founded to oppose Bevin's health care policies, said in a news release that Bevin ``is putting his own political ideology ahead of the health and well being of hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians.'' Bevin defended those changes, pointing to one comment he received from a Medicaid recipient who ``indicated they would be willing to pay for more coverage.'' He said of the nearly 1,350 public comments, 224, or 16 percent, were about charging monthly premiums, which Bevin called ``relatively small.'' -AP
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TB cases higher than current estimates NEW DELHI: The number of tuberculosis cases in India may be up two to three times higher than current estimates, a new study has said while underlining the need for strengthening the surveillance of the disease. Noting that India's private sector is treating an enormous number of tuberculosis patients, the study said that there is a "redoubled" need to address this burden, strengthen surveillance and its burden estimates revised. "If 40-60 per cent of privatesector tuberculosis diagnoses are correct and if private-sector tuber-
tions and was published in the Lancet Journal of Infectious Diseases. Terming tuberculosis as a major global public health challenge, the study said that in 2014, 6.3 million cases of tuberculosis worldwide were reported to WHO, with India accounting for over a quarter of these cases, the highest of any country. It said that although standardized tuberculosis treatment in India is delivered by the public sector through the Revised National TB Control Program (RNTCP), early diagnosis and treatment are
Terming tuberculosis as a major global public health challenge, the study said that in 2014, 6.3 million cases of tuberculosis worldwide were reported to WHO, with India accounting for over a quarter of these cases, the highest of any country. culosis treatment lasts on average 2 to 6 months, this implies that 1.19 5.34 million tuberculosis cases were treated in the private sector in 2014 alone. "The midpoint of these ranges yields an estimate of 2.2 million cases, two to three times higher than currently assumed," the study said. The study was done by a research team comprising researchers from the Imperial College of London, the Indian government's Revised National TB Control Program, WHO and other organiza-
hampered by the presence of a "vast and unregulated" private health-care sector. "Poor diagnostic practices in this sector prolong tuberculosis transmission by delaying diagnosis, whereas a general lack of counseling and support of treatment adherence hampers successful, relapse-free cure. Moreover, most cases treated in the private sector are never notified to public health authorities," the study said. According to this study's findings, there are roughly 2.2 million people being managed for TB in
the private sector while 1.4 million being managed in the public health system. To try and reach an estimate of the number of cases of TB in India's private healthcare system, the researchers calculated nationwide sales of TB drugs across the private sector. They then used this figure to calculate the number of cases. This suggested there were 2.2 million TB cases in the private sector in 2014 - two to three times higher than current estimates. "India's private sector is treating an enormous number of patients for tuberculosis, appreciably higher than has been previously recognized. "Accordingly, there is a redoubled need to address this burden and to strengthen surveillance. Tuberculosis burden estimates in India and worldwide require revision," the study said. The study said that its findings have implications for the tuberculosis strategy in India and the "vast disorganized" private health-care sector poses major challenges to tuberculosis control. "Our work points to the urgent need for further strengthening of tuberculosis surveillance in the private sector. Our findings highlight uncertainty around the true burden of tuberculosis in India. Methods for estimating this burden should be complemented by independent approaches generating primary data," the study said. -PTI
Zika may linger in babies for months WASHINGTON: Zika may linger in the blood of an infected baby for more than two months, suggests a new study from Brazil that raises concerns about the potential of the virus to damage an infant's brain even after birth. Physicians at the Santa Casa de Misericordia and researchers from the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil described the case of a baby born with Zika infection in January, who remained infected by the virus even two months and one week after birth. This is the first reported case of prolonged Zika infection in newborns, researchers wrote in The New England Journal of Medicine. The baby was 3 kg, 48 cm in length at birth, with the head perimeter of 32.5 cm, slightly smaller
than the 33cm recommended by World Health Organization (WHO). At first, doctors did not detect signs of any neurological abnormality: the analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid and the exams of the eyes and the ears showed normal results. Images taken by MRI, though, showed a reduced brain parenchyma, foci of calcification in the subcortical area and compensatory dilation of the supraventricular system. These results and the fact that the mother's symptoms of Zika infection appeared in the seventh month of pregnancy - when it is thought that the damage to the fetus is less severe than when the infection occurs earlier in pregnancy - led to a first diagnosis of
mild microcephaly. After 54 days of life, the baby showed no illness or neurological impairment. However, at six months, doctors noticed delayed psychomotor development, with an abnormal increase in the muscle tone and reduced muscle stretchability. Also, spastic hemiplegia (cerebral palsy) was detected. These characteristics imply a more serious condition than diagnosed before, researchers said. The baby's father travelled to the Northeast of Brazil and showed symptoms of Zika, earlier than his wife. It may indicate that the virus could have been sexually transmitted. Serological tests confirmed the infection in both parents, researchers said. -PTI
Blacks face pregnancyrelated death risk HOUSTON: Black women face the greatest risk for pregnancyrelated death in Texas, according to a state health report. The report found that cardiac events, overdose by legal or illegal prescription drugs, and high blood pressure disorders are the leading causes of maternal death. ``This confirms what we feared - that many of these deaths could be prevented,'' state Rep. Armando Walle, a Democrat from Houston told the Houston Chronicle. ``It's a travesty that this is happening.'' Walle was the House author of the 2013 bill that created a Texas Department of State Health Services maternal mortality task force and charged it with producing biennial reports and recommendations In 2011 and 2012, the years studied in the report, black women accounted for nearly 29 percent of all maternal deaths, even though they gave birth to only 11 percent of all babies. In comparison, white women accounted for 38 percent of deaths and 35 percent of births and Hispanic women, the lowest risk group, accounted for 31 percent of deaths, even though they gave birth to 48 percent of babies. The report also found that mental health and substance use
disorders play a significant role in maternal death. It cited providers' ``repeated missed opportunities'' to screen women and refer them to treatment for such disorders. Recommendations in the report included calling for increased access to health services during the year after delivery and during the
period between pregnancies. Walle said he's hopeful the report makes an impression on the 2017 Legislature. ``I'm not naive to the fact we haven't expanded Medicaid, but something needs to be done to increase access to pregnant women,'' said Walle, who added we can't keep ``letting federal dollars go to other states while these women are dying.'' The state report follows the publication of a national study that found Texas' maternal mortality rate has doubled since 2011. -AP
Clinton proposes fund to combat Zika Cont'd from Page 32
The campaign did not detail how the government would pay for the fund or its size, beyond saying it would cost several billion dollars over 10 years. Earlier this month, Clinton toured the Borinquen Medical Center, a health clinic close to the Wynwood area in Miami where a number non-travel-related Zika cases have been diagnosed. Public health experts worry about the disease spreading: Florida Gov. Rick Scott has announced a non-travel-related case of Zika in the Tampa Bay region, the first in the state outside the Miami area. Lawmakers left Washington in mid-July for a seven-week recess without approving any of the $1.9 billion that President Barack Obama requested in February to develop a vaccine and control the mosquitoes that carry the virus.
Clinton has urged Congress to cut short its summer recess and immediately pass funding for a Zika response. She has blamed congressional Republicans for inaction. Clinton laid out a plan to combat the virus last March, which included allocating $1.8 billion in emergency funds. A month later, she dispatched two of her aides to Puerto Rico, where hundreds of cases have been detected, to meet with medical professionals. GOP rival Donald Trump appeared to agree with Clinton that lawmakers should fund efforts to combat Zika. He told the Miami Herald earlier this month that he would ``let some of the funds that they're asking for come in'' to fight the virus. ``It's a tough thing to stop anyway,'' he told the paper. ``But they're spraying all over the place. I see it. And I think it'll be fine.'' -AP
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Too much brain activity may impair memory LONDON: Abnormally increased activity in the brain's hippocampus impairs our memory and attention, and can be more detrimental to cognitive function than reduced activity or a lesion, a new study suggests. The study has implications for understanding cognitive deficits in a variety of brain disorders, including schizophrenia, age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's, and for the treatment of cognitive deficits, researchers said. Neurons in the brain interact by sending each other chemical messages, so-called neurotransmitters. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the
most common inhibitory neurotransmitter, which is important to restrain neural activity, preventing neurons from getting too trigger-happy and from firing too much or responding to irrelevant stimuli. Researchers led by Tobias Bast at The University of Nottingham in the UK have found that faulty inhibitory neurotransmission and abnormally increased activity in the hippocampus impairs our memory and attention. The hippocampus - a part of the brain that sits within our temporal lobes - plays a major role in our everyday memory of events and of where and when they happen.
Comatose man's brain started with ultrasound LOS ANGELES: In a first, scientists in the US have used low-intensity ultrasound to successfully jump-start the brain of a 25-year-old man recovering from coma, an advance that may lead to a portable device that can non-invasively 'wake up' patients who are in vegetative state. The technique uses sonic stimulation to excite the neurons in the thalamus, an eggshaped structure that serves as the brain's central hub for processing information. The patient has made remarkable progress following a treatment, researchers said. "It's almost as if we were jump-starting the neurons back into function," said Martin Monti, from University of California, Los Angeles. "Until now, the only way to achieve this was a risky surgical procedure known as deep brain stimulation, in which electrodes are implanted directly inside the thalamus," Martin Monti said. "Our approach directly targets the thalamus but is noninvasive," he added. Martin Monti cautioned that the procedure requires further study on patients before they determine whether it could be used consistently to help other people recovering from comas. Researchers used a device about the size of a coffee cup saucer which creates a small sphere of acoustic energy that can be aimed at different regions of the brain to excite its tissue. They placed it by the side of the man's head and activated it 10 times for 30 seconds each, in a 10-minute period. Mr Monti said the device is safe because it emits only a small amount of energy less than a conventional Doppler ultrasound. Before the procedure began, the man showed only minimal signs of being conscious and of understanding speech - for example, he could perform small, limited movements when asked. By the day after the treatment, his responses had improved measurably. Three days later, the patient had regained full con-
sciousness and full language comprehension, and he could reliably communicate by nodding his head "yes" or shaking his head "no." The technique targets the thalamus because, in people whose mental function is deeply impaired after a coma, thalamus performance is typically diminished. Medications that are commonly prescribed to people who are coming out of a coma target the thalamus only indirectly. The researchers plan to test the procedure on several more people. If the technology helps other people recovering from coma, Mr Monti said, it could eventually be used to build a portable device - perhaps incorporated into a helmet as a low-cost way to help "wake up" patients, perhaps even those who are in a vegetative or minimally conscious state. Currently, there is almost no effective treatment for such patients, he said. The research appears in the journal Brain Stimulation. -PTI
Hawaii's hepatitis count rises by 22 HONOLULU: The state Department of Health says 22 more people have been identified as having hepatitis A in Hawaii. The department said a total of 228 people have contracted the disease since the outbreak began earlier this year. Health officials traced the outbreak to frozen scallops served raw by a popular sushi chain, Genki Sushi. US Food and Drug Administration tests later found hepatitis A in the scallops, which were imported from the Philippines. The Genki Sushi chain closed 10 restaurants on Oahu and one on Kauai and began disinfecting them after the discovery. Genki Sushi said it's been working with the department to comply with health standards. It didn't say when it would reopen its restaurants. -AP
The research has shown that a lack of restraint in the neural firing within the hippocampus disrupts hippocampus-dependent memory. In addition, such aberrant neuron firing
within the hippocampus also disrupted attention - a cognitive function that does not normally require the hippocampus. "Our research carried out in rats highlights the importance of GABAergic inhibition within the hippocampus for memory performance and for attention," said Bast. "The finding that faulty inhibition disrupts memory suggests that memory de-
pends on well-balanced neural activity within the hippocampus, with both too much and too little causing impairments," he said. "This is an important finding because traditionally, memory impairments have mainly been associated with reduced activity or lesions of the hippocampus," said Bast. "Our second important finding is that faulty inhibition leading to increased neural activity within the hippocampus disrupts attention, a cognitive function that does not normally require the hippocampus, but depends on the prefrontal cortex," he said. "This probably reflects that there are very strong neuronal connections between hippocampus and prefrontal cortex," Bast said. "Our finding suggests that aberrant hippocampal activity has a knock-on effect on the prefrontal cortex, thereby disrupting attention," he said. "Overall, our new findings show that increased activity of a brain region, due to faulty inhibitory neurotransmission, can be more detrimental to cognitive function than reduced activity or a lesion," he added. The research was published in the journal Cerebral Cortex. -PTI
Tech News Talks with Brazil to produce pulses for India PATNA: There would be no shortage of pulses from next year as the government is taking several steps to boost the production, including talks with Brazil to produce pulses for India, Union Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan said here. "Talks are on with Brazil to produce pulses on its soil for us (India) and if an agreement is reached, there will be no shortage of pulses in the country," Paswan said. The minister said he had discussion with Brazil's Agriculture Minister and other officials in this regard. Brazil has two and half times more land than India but it produces pulses on only 6 per cent of that, he said while talking to reporters on the sidelines of national executive meeting of Federation of PTI Employees Unions here. He said India has offered to give seeds for pulses besides sending a team of trained people to Brazil for helping in pulses cultivation. There is the possibility of signing an agreement in this regard in October as Brazil's President is scheduled to visit India at that time, he said. The agreement with Brazil would be signed on the lines of one that was done with Mozambique in which there will be no role of any private agency.-PTI
Roadshow in China to attract tourism investment NEW DELHI: With an aim to attract Chinese participation in the forthcoming Tourism Summit here and its investment in the sector, the Union Tourism Ministry organized a roadshow in Shanghai, the government has said. "Never was there a more favorable time to invest in India than now with strong macro-economic indicators and the government's commitment to investment facilitation like never before," Tourism Secretary Vinod Zutshi said while addressing the event. Close to 20 "prominent" investors participated in the event which was part of roadshows being conducted in different parts of the world to promote participation of investors at the Incredible India Tourism Investors summit, to be held here from September 21-23, an official release said. The Tourism Ministry is organizing the summit in partnership with Tourism Finance Corporation of India and the CII.-PTI
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Probe into gold missing from IGI Airport NEW DELHI: Gold worth at least Rs 25 crore seized from smugglers has mysteriously disappeared from customs vaults at Indira Gandhi International Airport here, prompting the authorities to order a CBI probe. A huge haul of over 80 kg gold, both in form of bullion and jewellery, has gone missing in the last over four years from the customs warehouse. In all the cases, it was replaced with non-precious yellow-colored metal, official sources said. The seized gold was valued at Rs 25 crore as per current market rates, they said. The cases of disappearance of gold had earlier been reported to Delhi Police. As the pilferage continued, the Finance Ministry decided to recommend a CBI probe following approval of Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, the sources said.-PTI
India test fires Scramjet engine, joins elite club of nations BENGALURU: Joining a select club of nations, India has successfully test fired its futuristic Scramjet Rocket Engine using oxygen from the atmosphere that could cut the cost of the launches several fold and help in ISRO's bid to design advanced air breathing engines. The first experimental mission of Scramjet Engine was successfully conducted from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, Indian Space Research Organization said. It described the mission as a "modest" yet important milestone in its bid to design and develop advanced air breathing engines, including ones for its future space transport system. India is the fourth country to demonstrate the flight testing of Scramjet Engine after the US, Russia and European Space Agency. After a smooth countdown of 12 hours, the solid rocket booster Advanced Technology Vehicle (ATV) carrying the Scramjet Engines lifted off at 6 AM and ending a 300 seconds-flight, touched down in the Bay of Bengal, about 320 kms from Sriharikota, the cityheadquartered ISRO said. The important flight events burn out of booster rocket stage,
Super Sonic Combustion RAM Jet or Scramjet, also called Advanced Technology Vehicle (ATV), lifts off during its test by ISRO from Sriharikota, off the coast of Andhra Pradesh on August 28
ignition of second stage solid rocket, functioning of Scramjet engines for 5 seconds followed by burn out of the second stage - took place exactly as planned, ISRO said. The vehicle was successfully tracked during its flight from the ground stations at Sriharikota. ISRO said it was the maiden "short duration experimental test" of Scramjet engine with a hypersonic flight at Mach 6, and the ATV, an advanced sounding rocket carrying the engines engines, weighed 3277 kg at lift-off. The space agency said with this flight, critical technologies such as ignition of air breathing engines at supersonic speed, holding the flame at supersonic speed, air intake mechanism and fuel injection systems have been successfully demonstrated. It said Scramjet engine designed by ISRO uses Hydrogen as fuel and the Oxygen from the atmospheric air as the oxidizer. Usually rocket engines carry both fuel and oxidizer on board for combustion, but these newly developed engines with air-breathing propulsion system will use oxygen from the atmosphere thereby reducing the lift-off mass of the vehicle. Cont’d on page 38
Jaitley pitches for BRICS arbitration platform NEW DELHI: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has made out a strong case for BRICS nations developing their own arbitration mechanism to cut reliance on redressal centers in developed nations whose awards at times tend to be loaded against developing countries. Speaking at a conference on 'International arbitration in BRICS', he said faster growth will return to emerging economies once the world emerges out of the current slowdown and the dispute resolution mechanism should be now perfect as trade between countries grows. "Many countries fear, and have been suggesting, that the awards emerging out of these arbitration are at times loaded against the
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley speaking at a conference on 'International Arbitration in BRICS
emerging economies. Therefore, need has been felt to develop parallel arbitration centers across the world. Let alone London, let alone Paris, now we see Singapore emerging as an emerging arbitral centre," Jaitley said. "Therefore, for BRICS nations to resolve trading disputes which may arise out of BRICS nations, it is extremely important that we have to develop a mechanism." Jaitley suggested that the BRICS countries should set up a task force comprising officials and experts to discuss and then set up an appropriate mechanism where these nations can have arbitral centers of their own. Cont’d on page 38
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Rajan warns against leeway in infra funding MUMBAI: Outgoing RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has rejected granting any leeway in norms for activities of 'national importance' like funding of infrastructure, saying that the Reserve Bank cannot
such works. "It is far better for the Government to directly subsidies such activities if it deems them important than for the RBI to sacrifice systemic stability on the altar of
Raghuram Rajan
compromise systemic stability and government should "subsidies"
national importance," he said at a FEDAI event here.
Rajan said while RBI is a liberalizer, it has to be careful "not to relax prudential regulations simply because an entity or activity is deemed of national importance" and cited infrastructure as a case in point. "A nationally important activity such as infra build-up may be very risky. To require lower provisions, or to allow higher leverage or external commercial borrowings against such activities, may increase systemic risk," Rajan argued. The governor said that in the long-run, any favorable dispensation may damage the lending activity, citing too many infra projects as not having forex earnings thus being unable to pay in dollars or yen. Official estimates peg infrastructure investments at over USD 1 trillion over the next few years and a variety of ideas, beyond the
37 mobile manufacturing plants set up NEW DELHI: India has attracted investment from 37 mobile manufacturing companies in last one year that have generated 40,000 direct jobs and 1.25 lakh indirect employment, IT Minister
come up," Prasad said after inaugurating government-funded 'Electropreneur Park'. He said that 11 crore mobile phones have been made in the country in last one year compared
IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad
Ravi Shankar Prasad said here. "We decided to make India a big hub of electronics manufacturing. In the last one year, 37 new mobile manufacturing units have
Ministry of Electronics and IT has selected six start-up firms that will develop products at this incubation centre.
to 6 crore earlier. "We have given jobs to fortythousand people and 1.25 lakh indirect jobs," Prasad said. Chinese companies like Gionee and Xiaomi are making their handsets at Foxconn plant in Andhra Pradesh. Domestic companies such as Karbonn, Lava, Micromax, Intex, Jivi, iTel, and MTech too have set up their manufacturing plants in the country. As per industry sources, Chinese company LeEco has also started mobile manufacturing unit. Prasad said that besides manu-
facturing electronic products in India, product designing is also important. He said that government has provided Rs 10,000 crore under Electronics Development Fund to support new entrepreneurs in the field of electronics. The Electropreneur Park (EP), which was inaugurated in South Campus of Delhi University, is an incubation centre set up with government funds of around Rs 21 crore to support incubation of up to 50 companies. Set-up in collaboration with academia and industry represented by Indian Electronics and Semiconductor Association, the Park will focus on creation of intellectual property rights and product development to increase domestic manufacturing of electronics items. "India imports electronic goods of over Rs 3 lakh crore. By 2020 government aims to bring down import to zero. The Electropreneur Park started today is a step in that direction," Minister of State for IT and Law P P Choudhary said. Ministry of Electronics and IT has selected six start-up firms that will develop products at this incubation centre. "6 out of 176 start-ups have been selected which means they have capability of developing good quality products and selection of six more are in pipeline," MEITY Additional Secretary Ajay Kumar said. -PTI
government funding the requirement by itself, have been mooted to take care of it. Many infra projects are being
"Observers may be impatient, but my belief is that steady and irreversible reform and 'mini bangs' rather than 'big bang' is the
Rajan said while RBI is a liberalizer, it has to be careful "not to relax prudential regulations simply because an entity or activity is deemed of national importance� financed with the help of multilateral agencies or governments like Japan where the yields are very low. Rajan said RBI is committed to liberalize but at a steady and measured pace which was even seen during the global market turmoil.
need of the hour," Rajan said, alluding to the slew of measures taken to deepen bond markets and improve liquidity. He also assured that the pace of reforms will pick up once global conditions become less uncertain. -PTI
Patel will carry forward inflation fight: Rajan MUMBAI: Outgoing Reserve Bank Governor Raghuram Rajan has exuded confidence that his successor Urjit Patel will carry forward the work they began on taming inflation. "I am confident that Urjit Patel, who has worked closely with me on monetary policy for the last three years, will ably guide the Monetary Policy Committee going forward in achieving our inflation objectives," Rajan said at a FEDAI (Forex Dealers Association of India) event here. These
are the first comments by Rajan since Patel's was named by the government, a decision welcomed as ensuring continuity in the central bank's policies. Patel will take over as RBI Governor after Rajan's term ends on September 4. Rajan said that even though inflation has breached the 6 per cent mark as against the RBI target of getting it down to 5 per cent by March 2017, the price rise scenario will ebb in the coming time..-PTI
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PM hails cooperation to pass GST Bill NEW DELHI: Days after GST Bill was passed by Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given credit to all political parties who unanimously approved the legislation despite "bitter rivalries", saying it was an example of how big tasks can be done if all parties work together. "In August 2016, parties having intense political rivalry, parties which do not let go any chance to attack each other, all came together to pass the GST bill," he said in his monthly radio program 'Mann Ki Baat'. "The credit goes to all the parties. This is an example of how big a task can be accomplished when all parties work together in one direction," he added. The long-pending Constitution amendment bill that will pave the way for roll out of GST, a new uniform indirect tax regime, in the country was passed by Rajya Sabha on August 3 and by Lok Sabha on August 8. The GST will replace more than a dozen levies central and state levies, including central excise duty, service tax and central sales
tax as well as VAT on sale of goods and entry tax, to make movement of goods seamless across 1.3 billion market. Instead of the good
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
being taxed multiple times at different rates, under the new GST regime goods would be taxed at point of consumption.
Jaitley pitches for BRICS arbitration platform international lawyers who could practice from one jurisdiction to "And hopefully, if we are able other. Therefore, those jurisdiction to evolve and develop that capac- tended to have a big share in inity, eventually those centers will ternational arbitration," he said. also become centers of great inThe emerging economies of ternational acceptability even with Brazil, Russia, India, China and regard to the non-BRICS nations South Africa mostly follow the as far as arbitral abilities are con- UNCITRAL model law on internacerned," he said. tional commercial arbitration. Talking about rationale behind According to Jaitley, it is essential that the dispute resolution mechanism "The experience over the is absolutely fair, deyears has been that some tached from local commitments, to ensure centers did monopolize a free and fair trade. bulk of international arbitra"As the world slowly emerges from tions; they developed cathe current economic pacities� crisis, trade which has companies going for international shrunk will come back in a bigger arbitration, he said they fear an way. Growth will return to the institutional bias and hence look world and faster growth will return for a neutral forum for applicabil- to emerging economies. ity of law. Therefore inter-se trade and "The experience over the years trade related issues will necessarhas been that some centers did ily involve the dispute resolution monopolize a bulk of international mechanism which we need to now arbitrations; they developed ca- perfect, and we need to prepare pacities, they created arbitrators ourselves for that," the finance of stature, they created a set of minister added.-PTI Cont’d from page 36
The Lok Sabha had earlier passed the bill in May 2015 but it hit the roadblock in the Rajya Sabha where the principal oppo-
sition Congress insisted on certain changes, including capping the tax rate in the constitution. PTI
India test fires Scramjet engine, joins elite club Cont’d from page 36
It will also help in bringing down launch costs substantially. The Scramjet engine will also be used eventually to power ISRO's reusable launch vehicle at hypersonic speed. ATV is a two-stage spin stabilized launcher with identical solid motors (based on Rohini RH560 sounding rocket) as the first as well as the second stage (booster and sustainer), ISRO said. The twin Scramjet engines were mounted on the back of the second stage. Once the second stage reached the desired conditions for engine "Start-up", necessary actions were initiated to ignite the Scramjet engines and they functioned for about 5 seconds, it said adding that ATV's flight operations were based on a pre-programmed sequence. President Pranab Mukherjee, who is in Bengaluru, congratulated ISRO for the successful test. "Hearty congratulations ISRO on successful test of futuristic scramjet rocket engine, India is proud of you," he said in a tweet. -PTI
'Air breathing' can propel space plane idea CHENNAI: Expressing satis- and the total amount spent so far faction over the successful tech- could be around Rs 35 crore, he nology demonstration of air- said, adding, "I can tell you it is breathing scramjet engines in very, very cost effective." flight, a top official said here the Sivan, however, said the techtechnology has many uses, one nology would not replace other enof which is in the area of space gines like cryogenic as "this (air planes which could drastically cut breathing propulsion) will only down intercontinental travel time. supplement the propulsion system Director of Vikram Sarabhai working in the atmosphere." Space Centre, K Sivan, said the Ruling out integrating scramjet technology could be used in engines in vehicles like GSLV, Sivan "rocket, launch vehicle, space said, "It will be better to design plane for transportation, missiles and in any other propulsion sys- "Yes we can use it for space tem." plane. Definitely it will be If used in a space plane, it could narrow useful for intercontinental down the flight duration from Chennai to New travel, it will cut down travel York to just about an time drastically," he said hour from over 19 hours in an air plane now. "Yes we can use it for space new vehicles for optimal effiplane. Definitely it will be useful for ciency." intercontinental travel, it will cut Shaping of such a vehicle down travel time drastically," he said. should ensure that "whatever To a question if there were thrust we are getting from this enplans to develop space planes, he gine should be more than the drag said, "let us think about it later." of the vehicle." Among the several propulsion He said though the technology systems including rocket, chemi- demonstration was a small step, it cal and electrical, air breathing is was a big milestone for the nation. very special, Sivan said. "A big milestone for our country... He said this technology dem- Only very few countries like USA onstration was former President A and China have acquired this P J Abdul Kalam's dream, who technology. They too had done wanted the cost to be Rs 500 to experiments for short duration." send a kilo to space. "The total On its advantages, he said in a cost for this flight was Rs three vehicle like GSLV "85 per cent is crore," he said. only fuel propellant and out of this Work started around 2005 for it 70 per cent is oxidizer." -PTI
Apollo Gleneagles expansion at Rs 300 cr KOLKATA: Apollo Gleneagles, a part of Apollo Hospitals group, will invest Rs 300 crore to increase the number of beds in the next three years. "The number of beds at Apollo Gleaneagles will be increased from 700 to 1,000 in the next three years. Typical cost for setting up one bed is Rs 1 crore," MD and CEO of Apollo Rupali Basu told reporters here. The hospital is the largest private healthcare facility in eastern India. Apollo had also acquired 51 per cent stake in National Hospitals at Guwahati which would
be re-branded, she said. Basu said Apollo Gleneagles is working towards making the first heart transplant in the city for which the hospital was taking baby steps. For this it organized a meet of physicians from across the nation for discussing clinical advancements and innovation in various medical disciplines. Head of the department of gastroenterology Mahesh Goenka said the hospital was willing to treat and diagnose patients by conducting tests in a single day like some other hospitals in the southern part of the country. -PTI
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Delhi's Safdarjung Airport to have armed security bring all such facilities under the CISF cover gradually. There are three facilities in the national capital which are used for flying operations including the civilian Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) guarded by the CISF and the Palam technical area used for flying jets for VVIPs and it is guarded by the IAF.
cated security mechanism. Sources said central security agencies have pointed to the vulnerability of the airport as it has an open road-facing runway and its vast periphery is dotted by thick vegetation and buildings. It is also essential to keep the airport safe as the President, Prime Minister and other dignitaries take
Safdarjung Airport Terminal building
NEW DELHI: The Safdarjung Airport in the national capital would soon be safeguarded by an armed security cover provided by a central paramilitary force in view of potential threats to the facility used primarily for flying VVIP helicopter sorties. Official sources said a fullfledged security audit of the air facility located in the high-profile location of central Delhi has been ordered after central security agencies recommended the same and after a preliminary report was pre-
pared about possible threats and vulnerabilities to it. The over 200-acre airport is presently provided security by troops of the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) drawn from North East states and they largely look after access-control duties through official entry/exit gates. The facility is operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and apart from conducting regular administrative operations, the airport also houses the hangar for the Mi-17 series of choppers of
China's top 500 firms report decline BEIJING: China's top 500 enterprises reported their first annual decline in combined revenues in 15 years, with a 0.07 per cent drop last year, as the economy continued to slow down amid falling oil
310 billion) in revenue, with oil giants China National Petroleum Corp and Sinopec ranking second and third. Haitong Securities, GF Securities and China Galaxy Securities entered the list for the first time as a bull stock Of the 500 firms, 157 are market boosted their revenues. from the service sector, six Revenues of the top 500 totaled 59.46 trillion more than a year ago, and yuan (USD 8.9 trillion) 261 are manufacturers, five last year. The service sector contributed 40.5 less than a year ago. per cent of the revenues, outperforming prices and overcapacity issues. the manufacturing sector, at 39.2 Among the top 500 firms, 155 per cent, for the first time. reported declines in revenues in Of the 500 firms, 157 are from 2015, 61 more than a year ago, with the service sector, six more than a many of them representing the year ago, and 261 are manufacturovercapacity-plagued coal, steel, ers, five less than a year ago. oil and chemicals industries. The 500 companies invested Meanwhile, 72 firms reported 1.48 per cent of their revenues in losses, 15 more than a year ago. research and development (R&D) The data was contained in 2016 on average, with leading search edition of the top 500 Chinese En- engine Baidu and telecom equipterprises released China Enterprise ment supplier Huawei spending Confederation and China Enter- 15.9 per cent and 15.1 per cent on prise Directors Association. R&D respectively. The list is based on revenues Cui Dianguo, chairman of train from 2015, state-run Xinhua news maker CRRC Corp, said large comagency reported. panies should speed up overseas The State Grid grabbed the top expansion to create a global value spot with 2.07 trillion yuan (USD chain.-PTI
the Border Security Force and is used to fly VVIPs using these or by the helicopters of the Indian Air Force. Sources said post the security audit, the task to fully secure the facility could be handed over to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which is the mandated agency to guard major civilian airports in the country. Facing threat of terror attacks, the Home Ministry had recently ordered security audit of nearly 100 civil airports and decided to
Xi call to produce more aircraft engines BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for stepping-up manufacturing of aircraft engines to make the country an aviation powerhouse as the Communist giant continued to depend upon foreign countries despite making advances in avionics. China needs to accelerate research, development and manufacturing of aircraft engines and gas turbines to make China an aviation industry power, he said as the government established Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) to focus on engine manufacturing. The founding of the firm, which employs 96,000 employees, is a strategic move that will help enhance national power as well as the capacity of the armed forces, Xi said in a written instruction, state-run Xinhua news agency reported. Though China made advances in avionics, it continued to rely mostly on Russia for the aircraft engines, both for military and civilian purposes. China also has issues in accessing American and EU engines due to restrictions in military related supplies.-PTI
An aircraft at Safdarjung Airport
Only the Safdarjung Airport, which has a runway but is only used for rotor-wing chopper operations, does not have a dedi-
flight from here occasionally, and at times of emergencies, some secret sorties for special operations are also undertaken from here, they said.-PTI
Hasina defends IndoBangla power plant DHAKA: Bangladesh Prime logical balance. Minister Sheikh Hasina has al"If the project is implemented, layed environmental concerns our beloved motherland will no over the coal-fired power plant to longer remain a place worthy of be set up jointly with India near living...no citizen of the country the Sundarbans and warned op- will accept it," Zia had said while position BNP that attempts to cre- expressing her fear that it would ate anarchy on the issue will be reduce employment opportunities scuttled with an "iron hand". for the people who depend on the "Let me tell you Sundarbans manone thing, I would grove forest, the have been the first largest such forest person to oppose in the world. the power plant "We cannot alhad there been a low anyone to slightest chance implement its plot of damage to the to destroy the Sundarbans," she Sundarbans. It is a told a press confertimely demand to ence at her resist the evil efBangladesh Prime Minister Ganobhaban resiforts of making Sheikh Hasina dence here. profit and gaining Hasina issued a stern warning unethical interests sacrificing the against attempts to create anarchy country's existence and interests," by "making a non-issue an issue", Zia had said. saying "we will not hesitate to Bangladesh-India Friendship control it with an iron hand". Power Company (Pvt) Limited The Premier's comments came (BIFPCL), a joint venture enterthree days after Bangladesh Na- prise, inked the deal with state-run tionalist Party (BNP) chief and ex- Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited premier Khaleda Zia termed the (BHEL), which was selected unproposed Rampal coal-fired power der an open international tender plant "anti- people" and "unprof- for constructing the "ultra-super itable" as she asked the govern- critical thermal plant" in ment to pull back from the project Bangladesh's southwestern for the sake of the country's eco- Rampal near the Sundarbans.-PTI
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aranasi, also renowned as Kashi and Banaras, is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The holy city, believed to have been founded by Lord Shiva about 5000 years ago, is placed picturesquely on the west bank of Holy Ganges River and is one of the most revered religious destinations in India. Varanasi has got its name from the two rivers Varuna located at the north and Assi located at the south of the city. Varanasi is mentioned in the holy epics Ramayana and Mahabharata and varieties of tour packages are available. The importance of the Varanasi (Kashi)
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lies in the religious belief that those who die in the area in the Kashi city bounded by the Panch Kashi Road will attain salvation. The city is thronged by thousands of Hindu devotees every day throughout the year. Any Hindu believer in the country and abroad is a devout aspirant of visiting Kashi
September 2, 2016
at least once in the life time. Varanasi is also renowned as a place for performing last rites for the believers and the mortal remains are immersed in the water of Ganges. Performing funeral rites and cremation in the pyres are usual scenes on the banks of the river. Many people like to
Varanasi has got its name from the two rivers Varuna located at the north and Assi located at the south of the city.
spend their fag end of life in this holy city with the belief of attaining salvation here. There are many attractions in Varanasi. It is an ideal spot for those who are enthused about Hindu beliefs, customs, cultures and concepts. They can have the real life experiences of Hindu way of living and belief in rebirth. Varanasi is also famed as a centre of silk weaving and pure silk apparels. The Paan, mixture of betel leaves, arecanut, tobacco and lime, is a favorite chewing item in Varanasi. Cont’d on page 42
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Domestic tourism to touch 227 cr by 2020 NEW DELHI: The number of domestic tourist visits within India can reach up to 227.36 crore by the end of 2020, a report has said. Domestic tourist visits stood
at over 143 crore in 2015, according to the report Domestic Tourism: Tap the treasure by industry body Assocham. "Given the growth of India's
economy, expansion of middle classes and ongoing westernization of their lifestyles, the relative importance of domestic tourism can only be expected to increase
exponentially over the coming decades," Assocham Secretary General D S Rawat said. However, it is imperative for governments, both at the state and
central levels, to give more priority and a more integral, central role to domestic tourism in the overall tourism development across India, he added. "Domestic tourism provides the much needed employment to thousands of small scale entrepreneurs and low scale workers, something which the country requires to utilize with its growing demographic dividend," the report said. In addition, domestic tourism compensates for seasonal variations in overseas tourism thereby sustaining tourism demand and employment, it added. Tamil Nadu was the preferred choice of domestic tourists, with 33.3 crore travelers visiting the state in 2015, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, the report said. Steps such as creation of worldclass infrastructure, effective marketing, promoting tourism circuits and ensuring safety and security of tourists could provide a boost to the sector, it added. -PTI
Global travel spending growing at slow pace NEW YORK: Global travel spending is still growing, although at a slower pace, despite weakening economies and fears over terrorism. The World Travel and Tourism Council, a group backed by travel providers with the mission to promote tourism, said in a report that global travel spending for 2016 is expected to grow by 3.1 percent. That is down from a March forecast of 3.3 percent but still outpacing global economic growth, which the group expects to be 2.3 percent. Macroeconomic problems have a much bigger impact on travel than terrorist attacks, the group's president, David Scowsill, said. "Travelers aren't going to allow isolated terrorist attacks to put them off traveling," he said. Tourists worried about safety in France have chosen Spain or Italy instead, for example. Scowsill said destinations with tourist-specific attacks usually take two years to recover, while other types of attacks lead to a faster resumption of travel. Other travel groups are also seeing the slowdown in travel
spending. The International Air Transport Association recently noted that while more people are flying, the upward trend "has moderated since January" and the percent of seats occupied has actually slipped slightly. "The fragile and uncertain eco-
South Asia leads growth at 5.9 percent, driven by strong economic prospects in India. Latin America is expected to be the worst performer nomic backdrop, political shocks and a wave of terrorist attacks are all contributing to a softer demand environment," said the group's head, Tony Tyler, in a statement. And back in April, the Global Business Travel Association warned of slowing volume from USoriginating business travelers. Of course, not each part of the world is facing the same growth or problems. The World Travel and
Tourism Council breaks down expected 2016 travel spending this way: - South Asia leads growth at 5.9 percent, driven by strong economic prospects in India. - Latin America is expected to be the worst performer, with an anticipated decline of 0.9 percent, driven by weakness in Brazil. - Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia are seen growing at 4.7 percent and 4 percent respectively, stimulated by China growing at 6.3 percent. - North America matches the global growth rate of 3.1 percent. - Europe is expected to face challenges and only grow by 2.2 percent. It's a different story in the United Kingdom, which recently voted to leave the European Union. Growth there is actually expected to exceed the rest of Europe at 3.6 percent. The travel group expects weaker domestic spending and a 3 percent drop in outbound U.K. trips. However, it expects all of that to be offset by higher spending in the UK by international visitors benefiting from greater spending power as a result of the weaker British pound. -AP
Telangana, AP attract highest domestic tourists HYDERABAD: In a development which indicates robust growth in the tourism sector across two Telugu states, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have registered over 30 per cent upswing in domestic tourist arrivals during 2015 as compared with
two of the top five states with the highest growth numbers. The study titled 'Domestic Tourism: Tap the Treasure' pegged the total domestic tourists in India at 143 crore during 2015. Andhra Pradesh accounted for 8.5 per cent of the total while
the year earlier. While Telangana recorded second highest growth of 30.5 per cent in the domestic tourist arrivals, Andhra Pradesh stood third with 30.3 per cent upswing in 2015, a study by industry body Assocham has revealed. West Bengal topped the list with a year-on-year growth of over 43 per cent whereas Madhya Pradesh (22.6 per cent) and Gujarat (17.4 per cent) made up the last
Telangana's market share stood at 6.6 per cent. Tamil Nadu led the top 10 states list with 23 per cent market share followed by Uttar Pradesh (14 per cent). Meanwhile, Maharashtra emerged at the top in terms of attracting investments in the country's hospitality and tourism industry. It received Rs 15,500 crore out of over Rs 93,400 crore attracted by the sector in India till June 2016.-PTI
TN plans to modify cruise tourism CHENNAI: With an aim to generate more revenue from cruise tourists, Tamil Nadu government has suggested operators to modify their tour packages so that visitors spend more time on shore, the Assembly was informed. "The tourism department has suggested the operators to modify the tours, so as to make them (tourists) spend more time on shore and visit more tourist places for a minimum of three to four days," Tourism Minister Vellamandi N Natarajan said and noted that ports at Tuticorin and here are attracting cruise vessels. This will help generate more revenue and give an opportunity to spend money on other travel-related areas and shopping. This will also help the economy of the state and the country, he said, adding, two cruise ships had arrived here this year. Natarajan said Tamil
Nadu had attracted about 33.81 crore domestic and foreign tourists last year and stood first in the country in 2014 and 2015. "Steps including targeted promotional strategies and extensive marketing campaigns, besides upgradation of basic amenities in tourist destinations would be taken to sustain the top position in tourist arrivals," he said. Natarajan also announced several new initiatives, including preparation of a 'Cultural Atlas' with Information Tags for various important tourist sites, especially those with heritage and historical values. -PTI
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The lusty green vegetation on the banks of the river in Varanasi is very attractive. The place is enriched with many ancient temples like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Kal Bhairava temple, Durga Kund, and Annapoorna temple. Varanasi is a prime centre of art, craft, education and culture. Many philosophers and scholars visit Varanasi to understand the divine life style of Hinduism and virtues of Hindu beliefs. Buddha, Mahavir, Adi Shankaracharya and Acharya Ramanuja are among those who
spent lots of their lifetime on the banks of Ganges in Kashi. Tourist attractions Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The chief deity for whom the whole city of Varanasi is dedicated is Kashi Vishwanath, one of the manifestations of Lord Shiva. The presence of Kashi Vishwanath Te m p l e
makes Varanasi as the most sacred city in India. The temple is dedicated to Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, one among the twelve renowned and religiously acclaimed Jyotirlingas of India. The present Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built in the 18th century by Rani Ahalyabai Holkar of Indore. It is located on the banks of River Ganges overlooking the whole city of Kashi. It is believed that view of the Vishwanath Jyotirlinga ignites spirituality and is considered to be the most sacred event in one's life time. New Vishwanath Temple
(Golden Temple): New Vishwanath Temple, also popularly known as the Golden Temple, is situated in the campus of Banares Hindu University (BHU). The temple is built by the Birla family and hence it is also known as Birla temple. This new Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a similar structure as Kashi Vishwanath temple. The temple is a marvel in marbles and was designed by the founder
of Banaras Hindu University Madan Mohan Malaviya. Ramnagar Fort: Ramnagar Fort, constructed by Maharaja Balwant Singh in the 17th century, is a medieval period fort located in the banks of the river Ganges. This was the royal residence of Raja of Banares, also known as Maharaja of Kashi. The fort continues as the residential palace of the royal family members. Ramnagar Museum: Ramnagar Museum, a scholarly museum renowned as the Banaras Vidya Mandir Museum, is located interior to Ramnagar Fort. This praiseworthy museum is a home of many medieval period artifacts, collection of many items belonging to the Royal family of Banaras and also many handicraft items. Alamagir Mosque: Alamgir Mosque, built by Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb, has the unique distinction of being the largest structure located on the banks of the river Ganges. It is believed that the mosque is placed at a place where a majestic Krishna temple was located. This temple was destroyed and the mosque was constructed in its place during Mughal invasion of India. Asi Ghat: the Ghat located at the confluence of Assi River and the holy Ganges, is the southernmost Ghat in Kashi. The Ghat is renowned for a spectacular and large Shiva Lingam placed under a Peepal Tree. This is a favorite spot for Hindu devotees to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva after taking holy dip in the river. This religiously important place has its reference in many puranas, including Matsya Purana, Kurma Purana, Agni Purana and Padma Purana. Legendary stories describe this Ghat as the
place where Goddess Durga threw out her sword after killing the Asura demons ShumbhaNishumbha. Darbhanga Ghat: A renowned holy spot among the Hindu devotes, it is an ideal location to have religious rites associated with the death of relatives or friends. It is situated between two other Ghats famously known as Dashaswamedh Ghat and Rana Mahal Ghat. Dasaswamedh Ghat: A much acclaimed religious spot, it is a favorite among Hindu devotees and
with many storied peaks, placed one over the other. The temple structure is imposing and offers a spiritual ambiance to the environment. Gyan Kup: Gyan Kup or Gyan Vapi Well is an acclaimed religious spot in Varanasi. The name literally means well of wisdom. Gyan Vapi well, an imposing pavilion, is located at the entrance to the renowned holy Kashi Vishwanath temple. This well was built by Gwalior Rani Baiza Bai in 1828 AD. Some parts of the temple structure, including the central dome and two
is considered as the main Ghat. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed his victorious DasaAshwamedha (ten-horse) sacrifice at this spot. Legends claim that a similar ten horse sacrifice was done here in the second century by Bhara Shiva Naga rulers. Durga Temple: Brahmacharini Durga Temple is located near Durga Ghat (Durga Kund) on the banks of the Ganges River. The prime deity is Goddess Durga and it has an imposing structure of Devi. The temple, built in 18th century by a Bengali Maharani, is one of the most revered temples in Varanasi. It was constructed
peaks, are placed in this pavilion. It is believed that the waters in the well provide spiritual enlightenment and the pavilion is considered to be highly revered. Attaining the perfect wisdom of spirituality is offered in this well. Hanuman Ghat: Hanuman Ghat, earlier known as Ramesvaram Ghat, is situated at a holy spot famed as Juna Akhara in Varanasi. Legends say that this Ghat was built by Lord Ram himself and hence it is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the favored disciple of Lord Ram.
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Patnitop-Sanasar to be major tourist hubs JAMMU: Jammu region has tremendous tourism potential and concerted efforts are afoot to develop different tourist circles of the region, State Culture and Tourism Minister, Priya Sethi said here. "We are steadfast on our resolve to promote tourism in the region and with active support from the Central government, the tourism potential would be explored to its fullest," she said during a meeting held at Patnitop here. On a two-day tour of the Patnitop-Sanasar area, the minister inspected existing tourist infrastructure in the area and directed the concerned to take adequate steps to improve these facilities. She toured Kud, Patnitop and Sanasar tourist destinations and interacted with hoteliers, tour operators and other stake holders.
She directed authorities to explore adventure sports and mountaineering potential in the Sanasar area and called upon the authorities to develop the spot as a major golf centre in the area. She also directed them to install proper signage, print sufficient
VARANASI Holy city of Hindu beliefs, customs & culture
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This Ghat is an impressive attraction among the wrestlers and body builders as Lord Hanuman is a symbol of strength. Kedar Ghat: Kedar Ghat is a favorite temple among South Indian people and Bengalis. It is a revered Ghat. It was constructed by the Maharaja of Vijayanagar in the southern part of Kashi. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (Kedarnath) is the unique feature of this place. It is a spacious temple built in ancient Hindu architectural style. Man Mandir Ghat: Man Mandir Ghat, dating back to 1600 and renovated in 19th century, was built by Raja Savai Man Singh and the Ghat is named after him. Man Mandit Ghat, originally known as Somesvara Ghat, has a fine balcony at the north end of the Ghat. A small observatory founded by Raja Jai Singh of Jaipur is also seen in this Ghat. Manikarnika Ghat: Manikarnika Ghat, also known as Mahasmasana, is one of two burning Ghats in Varanasi. The other Ghat where burning is allowed is Harishchandra Ghat. Manikarnika Ghat is the prominent among the two and dates back to many centuries. The mythology points the relation of this Ghat to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The popular belief is that burning the dead bodies in this cremation ground is a religious way to attain
salvation. Panchganga Ghat: Panchganga Ghat, a sacred spot located at the confluence of five holy rivers (Panchganga). The rivers are The Ganga, The Saraswati, The Dhupapapa, The Yamuna and The Kirna. This Ghat is a major Hindu religious attraction. It is the place where Alamgir mosque built by Mughal Aurangzeb is located. It is believed that the mosque is constructed on a place where there was an ancient Vishnu temple. Rana Ghat: Rana Mahala Ghat,
tourist brochures and create entertainment facilities like toy train, museum, amusement park at different tourist spots to attract tourists. "Patnitop, Sansar, Mantalai and Sudh Mahadev are among tourist spots which have huge potential
Hindu devotees to perform purification of the mind and body. Best time to visit Varanasi has a humid subtropical climate with much variation in temperatures. Tourists should visit this city during the months from October to March. How to reach By Train: Varanasi is well connected with all major railway stations in India. There are two railheads nearby, namely Varanasi junction and the Kashi junction. Many express trains connect Varanasi with Delhi and Kolkata. By Air: Varanasi airport is connected to some cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai and Agra. There are daily domestic flights from Varanasi to these cities. International travelers can get con-
and the government would ensure that better facilities are created to boost tourism in the destinations," she added. While inspecting the Patnitop club building, the Minister expressed concern about the present condition of the club and ordered
Fewer Canadian tourists in Maine PORTLAND, Maine: Canadian tourism in Maine appears to be down again for the third year in a row. According to data from the Maine Office of Tourism, approximately 5.5 million Canadians visited Maine in 2013. That number dropped by more than a million in 2015. Lisa Gribbin, owner of Richards by the Sea, a motel in Old Orchard
necting flights from Delhi, which is 755 km away. By Bus: State owned public bus services connect Varanasi with other holy cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states. Frequent and regular private bus services are available from nearby cities.
Beach, Maine, says business is down 15 percent this year. She told the Portland Press Herald that usually about half the guests are Canadian. She says some Canadians called to say they couldn't afford to come this summer or had to cut their usual trip short due to the sluggish economy or the weak Canadian dollar. -AP
Kala Amb to be developed as tourist spot CHANDIGARH: Haryana Tourism Minister Ram Bilas Sharma has said the Kala Amb memorial site at Panipat will be developed as a national-level tourist destination during the golden jubilee year of the state's inception. The site, where the Third Battle of Panipat was fought in 1761, will be developed with the assistance of the Centre and Maharashtra government, he
built in 1670 AD, was built by the Udaipur ruler during that period and is located at the western side of Varanasi. The Ghat is perfectly placed on the banks of Ganges so that one can perform all religious rituals without much difficulty and can have a holy dip in the Ganges waters. It is often visited by the
refurbishing of the building to meet the needs of tourists and stressed that options should be explored for operating the club on PPP mode. She also visited the newly-constructed Tourist Information Centre and inspected the facilities made available to tourists. Sethi also directed authorities to give impetus to horticulture produce in the area and create better facilities for storage, transportation and marketing of vegetables, fruits and other produce of the area. "Nature has bestowed this region with beautiful landscapes, planes, valleys and river fronts, now we have to put in collective efforts to develop and popularize these tourist destinations," she added. -PTI
said after presiding over a review meeting of his department here. Besides, 48 sites falling under '84 kos' as mentioned in the Mahabharata, will also be developed as tourist attractions under the Krishna Circuit project, Sharma said. Special concessions will be given to visitors at tourism centers and restaurants in various destinations during the golden jubilee year, the minister said.-PTI
In Brief Worldwide concern over 'too many immigrants' PARIS: People throughout the world are becoming increasingly uncomfortable with immigration levels which are higher than any time since the Second World War, according to a new survey. At least six out of 10 people in France and Belgium, which have recently suffered deadly jihadist attacks, believe immigration has had a "negative impact", said the Ipsos polling institute. Similar figures were found in Russia, Hungary and also Italy, which has had to deal with large numbers of migrants fleeing the Middle East or Africa and seeking to forge new lives in Europe. In all, 49 per cent of those surveyed in 22 countries said there were "too many immigrants" and 46 percent felt "immigration is causing their country to change in ways they don't like," Ipsos said in a statement. The Japanese were least likely to say there are too many immigrants in their country (only 12 per cent), and the Brazilians least likely to voice discomfort at how immigration is changing their country (23 per cent), according to the study. The surveyors also pointed to a rise in the number of British people who think that immigration has been good for the country, standing at 35 percent, sharply up on the 19 percent recorded in 2011. -AFP
„ Visa fraud by Indian-American couple WASHINGTON: An IndianAmerican couple from Virginia has pleaded guilty to the charges of USD 20 million visa fraud involving Indian workers, the Justice Department has said. Raju Kosuri, 44, and Smriti Jharia, 45, a married couple from Ashburn, Virginia were indicted on April 27. According to the statement of facts filed with the plea agreement, Kosuri, Jharia and their co-conspirators fraudulently applied for more than 900 illegal immigration benefits under the H-1B visa program. Since 2008, and at much greater scale since 2011, Kosuri has built a staffing business that amounts to a visa-for-sale system, in violation of federal law, the Justice Department said. Kosuri and Jharia also admitted to defrauding the Small Business Administration in connection with a scheme to obtain HUBZone certification for a business named EcomNets Federal Solutions. Kosuri agreed to forfeit proceeds of his fraud schemes in the amount of USD 20,900,000, a media release said. -PTI
Immigration
Hickory family helping fellow Syrian refugees
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Details on page 46
Trump's evolving immigration plan compared to Clinton, Obama WASHINGTON: Donald Trump's new line on immigration ``fair, but firm'' - is leaving both Republicans and Democrats with the same question: Is the famously hard-line GOP nominee softening his approach? His campaign insists his position is ``exactly the same'' in principle. But even Trump acknowledged there ``could certainly be a softening, because we're not looking to hurt people.'' And in the course of just a few days, Trump has gone from calling for mass deportations for millions - a position to the right of even many Republicans - to arguing deportations should focus on those who commit crimes, veering into the same territory as President Barack Obama and Democrat Hillary Clinton. So what gives? If the string of vague and contradictory statements by Trump and his team is revealing anything, it's that his immigration policy is
still evolving. Just days ago Trump reshuffled his campaign staff as part of an effort to recalibrate his message for the general election, in which his tough stance on immigration may be more of a liability than it was in
a major immigration speech. But in a rally, he returned to the kind of tough talk his supporters have come to expect. ``We're going to have a real border. We're going to have a real wall. Mexico's going to pay for it,''
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump meets with active and retired law enforcement in Akron, Ohio.
the Republican primary. Trump's campaign postponed
Trump said in Tampa, Florida. A look at what Trump has pro-
posed, compared to Clinton's policies and Obama's record in office: DEPORTATIONS TRUMP: From the start, the brash billionaire's campaign has been rooted in the promise of a dramatically different approach to immigration. He presented a detailed deportation plan for 11 million immigrants in the U.S. illegally, complete with estimated timeframes and references to a ``deportation force.'' Trump argued all would have to return to their country of origin but that the ``good people'' could come back through legal processes. His tune seems to have changed. Now Trump says his first focus would be to get rid of ``the bad ones.'' Campaign manager Kellyanne Conway said Trump wanted to deport immigrants with criminal records, not all 11 million. What about that deportation force? ``He has not said that for a while,'' Conway said. Cont'd on Page 46
India SIM card-on-arrival for tourists NEW DELHI: Foreign travelers to India arriving on e-tourist visa are likely to get a SIM card from September-end, with the Home Ministry giving its nod and roping in state-run BSNL for the purpose. "We had a number of meetings with the Home Ministry with regard to providing SIM card to foreigner tourists when they land in India. The ministry has finally agreed to our proposal. Now, it will take some time to start the facility," Union Tourism Minister Mahesh Sharma said. The move is aimed at projecting India as a global tourist destination among foreign travelers as well as addressing the security concerns by equipping the tourists with mobile phones to make calls in case of any distress, an official said. Foreign tourists face problems while procuring a SIM card, making them dependent on telephone booths. The facility would
address this concern as well, he said. The SIM card, preloaded with talk time amount, will come with a 'welcome kit' which would also consist of 'dos and don'ts list', maps, tourism booklets with information about various tourist destinations and details of whom to
to be decided. "The e-tourist visa holders could get the welcome kit which would include a SIM card from BSNL counter as soon as they come out the airport. BSNL has agreed...the last level discussion is going on," Tourism Secretary Vinod Zutshi said.
Union Tourism Minister Mahesh Sharma
contact in case of emergency, the official said. However, according to a source, the amount of money to be loaded in the SIM card it is yet
"I think the facility would be launched by September-end, probably on World Tourism Day (which falls on September 27)," he said. Under the e-tourist visa
scheme, an applicant receives an email authorizing him or her to travel to India and he or she can travel with a print-out of this authorization. On arrival, the visitor has to present the letter to the immigration authorities who would then stamp the entry into the country. Launched on November 27, 2014, the facility was initially available for citizens of 113 countries arriving at 16 airports in India. From February 26, the scheme was extended for citizens of 37 more countries. The e-tourist visa facility is gaining popularity among foreign travelers. It recorded over 200 per cent rise, with 68,400 people availing the facility in July compared to 21,476 during the corresponding month last year. Last month, the UK occupied the top slot in availing the e-visa facility, followed by the US and France. -PTI
Immigration Post
September 2, 2016
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Root of immigration woes lies in past WASHINGTON: For more than a decade, lawmakers have been pointing at their counterparts to take the blame for what just about everyone agrees is a broken immigration system. Republicans say President Barack Obama's immigration enforcement policies encourage more people to sneak into the country. Democrats blame Republicans for blocking legislation that would allow people already here to gain legal status and create a path for future, legal immigration. But whatever specific policies are being fought over now, immigration experts say the problem took root at least 30 years ago, when President Ronald Reagan signed a 1986 immigration law that has become known as the ``Reagan Amnesty'' and allowed roughly 3 million people in the country illegally to gain legal status. The 1986 law was intended to create a new era of enforcement, including strict enforcement of the new law that barred employers from hiring workers who don't have permission to work in the United States. But that never fully materialized. Immigration laws were overhauled again in 1990 under Republican President George H.W. Bush and again in 1996 under Democratic President Bill Clinton.
Obama has tried in his eight years in office to overhaul them once again, but nothing has passed. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has said he will fix the system, build a wall along the border with Mexico and perhaps deport many of the estimated 11 million people living in the country illegally. But recently he indicated he may back off from that idea. ``We're going to build the wall,
gress doesn't approve such a measure. Trump and Clinton have laid the blame for the current state of immigration - and the estimated 11 million people living and, in many cases, working illegally in the United States - on the other party. But experts disagree. ``I think there's a lot of blame to go around and spread around for decades,'' said Mark Krikorian, executive director for Center For Im-
Supporters of fair immigration reform dance in front of the Supreme Court in Washington.
and we're going to stop it. It's going to end,'' Trump said earlier this year. ``We're going to have a big, beautiful wall.'' Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton, meanwhile, has pledged to push comprehensive immigration reform and to act on her own, as Obama has, if Con-
migration Studies, a Washington think tank which describes itself as ``low-immigration, pro-immigrant.'' ``There isn't one person responsible.'' Instead, he said, the problem lies in how the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986 was implemented. He described the
UK has highest immigrants from Poland LONDON: Poland has overtaken India for the first time as the top country of birth for migrant population in the UK, new net migration figures showed. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates indicate a slight fall on record levels of net migration, which was recorded as 327,000 for the year until March 2016, but a significant rise in European Union (EU) migration into the UK. "The most common non-UK country of birth in 2015 was Poland, with an estimated 831,000 residents (9.7 per cent of the total non-UK born population of the UK); compared with 795,000 residents born in India (which had been the most common non-UK country of birth since 2004)," ONS said in its population analysis. The region with the highest proportion of non-UK born residents remains London (37 per cent).
Nicola White, ONS Migration Statistics Unit, said: "The population of the UK continued to increase between 2014 and 2015, driven by significant increases in both the non-UK born and nonBritish national population of the UK." "Poland is now the most common non-UK country of birth, overtaking India for the first time. The number of Polish born citizens living in the UK has continued to increase since Poland joined the EU and the number of UK residents born in Poland was eight times higher in 2015 compared with 2004," it said. The figures coincide with the release of a new report which believes Britain's vote to leave the European Union (EU) can be used as an opportunity to fix a "broken" immigration system. Think-tank British Future said the British public's expectations of curbs on low-skilled migration
must be met. "Britain's current immigration system is broken and is not working for anybody. Leaving the EU will have a major impact on almost all aspects of immigration policy. While Brexit will present challenges for decision-makers, it also offers an opportunity to get policy right in this area and to help secure consent for the immigration that we have," the report said. Former British Prime Minister David Cameron had pledged to reduce net migration to below 100,000 by 2020. British Future released a parallel survey which suggested nearly half of Britons do not believe the government will hit this target. "Public trust in government's competence to manage immigration including meeting its own targets - is at rock bottom," Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, said in a statement. -PTI
passage of the bill as something of a ``con-job'' that allowed millions of immigrants in the country illegally to have legal status with a promise of workplace enforcement and other measures to curb future illegal immigration. But that didn't happen, he said. And there was little incentive to follow through on promises of strict workplace enforcement, he said, once millions of people were legalized. ``I definitely view this as the 30year problem,'' said Doris Meissner, who headed the nowdefunct Immigration and Naturalization Service under Bill Clinton and is now a senior fellow at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington. Meissner said the 1986 bill was intended to ``clear the decks'' of most people living in the country illegally while curtailing future illegal immigration. But thirty years after the amnesty bill became law the stringent workplace enforcement many expected, and mandated use of the government's E-Verify system for employers to check the legal work status of prospective hires, is still being debated by lawmakers and the business community. Multiple iterations of federal legislation to require employment verification have been defeated in Congress. Meissner said the ability of people in the country illegally to
of 10,000 until 2002. Meissner says part of the problem was the two immigration laws that followed in 1990 and 1996 that she said did very little to create a legal path to the United States for low-skilled workers. The government does have a pair of visa programs for seasonal agriculture workers and others who are considered seasonal, nonagricultural workers, but Meissner and other critics of the program argue that it is not sufficient. ``There is no line to get into,'' Meissner said. ``This is why at the end of the day we need updated laws, we need immigration reform.'' Instead, she said, the focus was on enforcement and making it easier to deport immigrants in the country illegally. As that happened, the estimated population of people living in the country illegally rose from a few million in the late 1980s and early 1990s to today's estimated 11 million people. The focus on enforcement may also have created an inadvertent incentive for immigrants in the U.S. illegally to stay in the country for fear that it would be harder if not impossible to get back in if they left, said Stuart Anderson, executive director at the non-partisan National Foundation for American Policy. Many people made the decision to stay and try to avoid fed-
The estimated population of people living in the country illegally rose from a few million in the late 1980s and early 1990s to today's estimated 11 million people. continue to find work during the economic boom of the 1990s was a significant incentive for more to come. And while an average of about 1.3 million people a year were caught crossing the border illegally over the decade of the 1990s, the Border Patrol was relatively small, not growing above a force
eral law enforcement as long as they could, he said. ``I don't think anyone would say that policy was successful,'' Anderson said. In recent years the immigration debate has focused on enforcement versus what to do with the millions of people already living here illegally. -AP
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Hickory family helping fellow Syrian refugees HICKORY, N.C.: For Sami Alkoutami and his family, Syria is more than a name on a map or a headline on the evening news. It's the ancestral home of Alkoutami, a 2012 St. Stephens High graduate. His father, Dr. Ghassan Alkoutami, moved to the United States in the 1980s to finish his medical training. While his family made a home for themselves in Hickory, they never forgot their cultural roots. His father is from Damascus and his mother is from Homs. They visited Syria every year until 2011 and the Arab Spring and the start of a civil war in the country. Eventually, Alkoutami, along with his mother (Rana) and youngest sister (Heidi) decided it was time to reach out to Syria again. Only this time, their destination was a refugee camp in Jordan where they spent part of the sum-
mer helping any way they could. Numbers speak volumes when it comes to Syria and its current state. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 4.8 million Syrians have fled the country to Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq and parts of Europe. There are also 6.6 million displaced internally. ``I finally decided we need to do something. I need to do something,'' Sami Alkoutami said. ``I can't see the people who've given me so much culture and my history and my background, I can't see them suffering. I need to do something.'' He decided to volunteer at Zaatari, the largest Syrian refugee camp in Jordan. It is two square miles in size with nearly 80,000 refugees living within its borders just miles from Syria.
In 2011, Syria was swept up in the Arab Spring - a series of civil protests focused on greater democratization. The movement started in Tunisia in 2010. Rana Alkoutami actually visited the camp with her oldest daughter last year. It was only for two hours but it had a powerful impact when she shared the story with Sami and Heidi. In Jordan, the family eventually joined QuestScope to volunteer in the camp. Sami was impressed with the vision of QuestScope, which focused on training mentors to produce social, educational, and entrepreneurial opportunities for marginalized youth, according to the organization's website. ``Their philosophy is the people who can help the Syrians the most are Syrians so what they do is train older Syrian refugees
Trump's evolving immigration plan compared to Clinton, Obama Cont'd from Page 44
CLINTON: The Democratic nominee has said overhauling immigration laws will be a top priority, but in the meantime, she says current laws should be enforced ``humanely.'' Her campaign says deportations would focus on immigrants ``who pose a violent threat to public safety.'' Clinton wants to shut down privately run detention centers. OBAMA: Immigration advocates have railed against Obama for deporting huge numbers more than 2.5 million in all - and dubbed him the ``deporter in chief.'' In 2012, Immigration and Customs Enforcement set a record of removing 409,000 immigrants. Since then, though, the numbers have declined to just 235,413 in the 2016 budget year. CHILDREN AND FAMILIES TRUMP: He's offered conflicting takes on how he'd deal with immigrants brought here illegally as children, and their parents. He praised the Supreme Court's move in June that halted Obama's second wave of executive actions on that issue, actions Trump decried as ``executive amnesty.'' His campaign says he'd reverse Obama's remaining actions. On the other hand, Trump has said he wouldn't split up families, though he hasn't explained how he'd reconcile those policies. He also supports eliminating birthright citizenship for children born
in the U.S. to parents who came here illegally. CLINTON: She wants to preserve Obama's executive actions - both those affecting children and those affecting their parents. Clinton also wants to expand those actions to immigrants who have contributed to their communities or faced ``extreme labor violations.'' OBAMA: Obama's position,
Trump is standing firm behind his plans to build a ``real wall'' on the Mexican border and to force Mexico to fund it. like Trump's recent comments, is rooted in the notion that limited law enforcement resources should be focused on law-breaking immigrants, not kids and families. The president's first set of executive actions has shielded more than 800,000 young immigrants from deportation since 2012. After Republicans won the Senate in 2014 and the prospect of an immigration overhaul grew dimmer, Obama acted again to protect up to 4 million parents of U.S. citizens or permanent residents and let them work legally. The courts have put the more recent actions on hold.
BORDER SECURITY TRUMP: He says the border isn't adequately protected. Trump has called for tripling the number of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, who handle deportations. And then, of course, there's the wall. Trump is standing firm behind his plans to build a ``real wall'' on the Mexican border and to force Mexico to fund it. He says until Mexico pays up, the U.S. will increase visa and border crossing fees, ``impound all remittance payments'' from immigrants here illegally, and possibly increase tariffs or cut foreign aid. CLINTON: She's called for securing U.S. borders, but has also said the U.S. is already doing ``a really good job.'' In March, Clinton said increased border security staffing, new fencing and lower immigration rates have lessened the problem. She opposes Trump's wall. OBAMA: In the 2008 budget year, before Obama took office, the U.S. had about 17,000 Border Patrol agents, reflecting an increase under President George W. Bush from the 9,212 the U.S. had in 2000. Obama increased it to 20,199 in 2009, and the numbers have hovered around there ever since. Border apprehensions dropped significantly during that time. Meanwhile, billions of taxpayer dollars have gone toward border fencing and technology to secure the border, another project that started under Bush. -AP
on how to be a mentor, how to be a teacher,'' Sami Alkoutami said. Mentors teach classes on gender roles, gender discrimination, the English language and even teach athletics. His family worked in the camp for five days, and he helped as an English tutor. Many of the students he was helping were trying to apply for scholarships in Canada. Between November 2015 and February 2016, Canada welcomed 25,000 Syrians, according to the Canadian government's website. ``I think the West has a view of refugees as people with tattered clothes and they're only good at accepting things we tell them they should have,'' Sami Alkoutami said. ``The thing is, not one of the refugees I worked with in Jordan asked for money. All they asked for was an opportunity. They just want to tell their story.''
was hard but it was rewarding that we were able to reach out.'' For Heidi Alkoutami, it was very much a place of two worlds. She saw the camp in front of her but she also saw bits and pieces of the Syria she remembered visiting when she was younger. She spent her time getting to know many of the girls her age at the camp. ``I feel like the Syrian refugees really do cultivate a sense of family. They come from different cities,'' she said. ``Some experienced civil war better or worse than others but they all come and they all support each other. ``They're the welcoming, heartwarming, loving, caring, positive Syrians that I always knew and will never forget. I just feel like around the world people think of refugees as being voiceless or hopeless but they're completely different and they deserve better.''
For Heidi Alkoutami, it was very much a place of two worlds. She saw the camp in front of her but she also saw bits and pieces of the Syria she remembered visiting when she was younger. She spent her time getting to know many of the girls her age at the camp. Sami Alkoutami said what he saw was a group of refugees looking to create as much of a community as they could. ``They opened shopping streets. they've opened up barber shops. They've opened up little markets, food stores,'' Sami Alkoutami said. ``They started circulating their money and they wanted to work. You ask all of them, the No. 1 thing that got them out of their dark times was to work. They want a sense of pride again.'' Like her son, Rana Alkoutami felt they had a message about Syrian refugees they needed to share. ``They live a miserable life in the camp, but they still have hope,'' she said. ``We worked so hard to get approval to go to the Zaatari. It was sad and very, very beautiful. There was life in the middle of the desert. It's so painful to know those kids there, they never saw a tree.'' Rana Alkoutami went on to describe the camp as virtually colorless. ``They have the grey of the caravans (refugee houses), the ground and the sky,'' she said, adding the Syrians did find ways to add a splash of color to the camp. ``They started painting those caravans with trees and flowers, so they started adding life to that piece of desert out of nothing. It
Rana Alkoutami remembered watching her daughter share hugs and goodbyes with her new friends in the camp and realized how everyone in the camp, Christian or Muslim, was more alike than different. ``You know we are Christian and they're wearing hijabs (covers Muslim women wear to cover their head) and that moment I felt humanity is beyond all religion,'' Rana Alkoutami said. ``It was just pure humanity and pure love and respect.'' Heidi Alkoutami added those final goodbyes with her friends showed barriers can be eliminated between different religions and cultures. Another telling moment for Sami Alkoutami was during the Islamic holiday Ramadan at the camp. ``We were all sitting at night, talking and joking and then they started sharing poems they used to read in Syria,'' he said. ``I remember just sitting there and I was looking down and just listening to the voices and it almost felt like I was back in Syria. ``You almost felt like there wasn't a war happening seventy miles away. You felt like everything was OK but then you look around and there's sand and you have fences.'' -AP
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K
rishna was not present when the Kauravas tried to disrobe Draupadi in public. He was not even aware of the scene because when he was about to go to the Rajasuya Yagna, Shalva, a king who held a grudge against him, came and raided Dwaraka. He and his men killed people and burnt homes, cattle and everything. By the time Krishna reached Dwaraka, the whole place was burnt and devastated. He organized the reestablishment of the community and the reconstruction of the city. Since he was involved in all this, he was not aware of what was going on in Hastinapur. If Krishna was not even aware of Draupadi's predicament, how did he reach out to her? How did this miracle happen that she was guarded? This is a question of Grace. For Grace to function, I need not be mentally aware of what is happening to you. Through an initiation into a spiritual process, a certain investment of energy has been made, which functions as Grace. If I wish to be aware of what is happening with someone, I can be aware. But most of the time, I do not wish to be aware because too many things are going on. For those who are receptive, Grace works. For those who are not receptive, Grace does not work. JOAN HALIFAX
I
often ask myself: how many people who will die today even know that this will be the last day of their lives? I think of friends who have died without completing projects, without having had the opportunity to say words of goodbye to a spouse or a child, without having forgiven a friend. I often recall the words of the Mahabharata's Yudhistara: "The most wondrous thing in the world is that all around us people can be dying and we don't believe it can happen to us." In taking care of a dying friend, we may make the mistake of thinking ourselves separate from her experience. In our minds, we may divide ourselves from her: "She is dying; I'm the caregiver." But in reality, we're joined by the bonds of impermanence. Maybe it's too disturbing to say to yourself: I am dying, too. But the truth is you are already dying. So am I. We're all linked by the inevitability of loss and death, even if we feel we are walking down the road of living. If we look, we realize that every one of us has had to give up something we loved. We've sacrificed cherished plans or dreams, felt grief and loss equally.
In a similar vein, Udhava once asked Krishna, "In many situations, I have seen beyond any doubt that you are a divine manifestation. There is so much about you which is beyond man. But then how come people are struggling and you cannot handle their problems with a snap of your fingers?" Krishna smilingly said, "No one can work a miracle unless the recipient is in full faith. Even the great Mahadeva cannot work a miracle unless there is receptivity and faith. When people are not receptive, you cannot expect miracles." There is a beautiful story: one
stopped, turned around, and came back. Satyabhama asked, "You left midway through lunch, saying your devotee is in trouble, but then you turned back. What happened?" Krishna said, "A devotee of mine was chanting, 'Krishna, Krishna,' with eyes closed. A hungry tiger approached him. The man would have gotten killed, so I thought I will reach out and I left. But by the time I was near the gate, the fool had picked up a stone - so I turned back." For Grace to function, the person who is the source of that Grace does not need to be mentally
about miracles - they just lost control over their imagination. Grace becomes accessible and available to you only when you create the necessary openness within you, which means you have to be willing to keep yourself aside. If you say "Krishna, Krishna" and pick up a stone, it will not work. Similarly, if you say, "Sadhguru, Sadhguru" and pick up a stone, it will not work because Grace is very subtle. And as already said, it is not at all necessary that the one through which Grace functions is mentally aware of what is happening. That is why though Krishna was not aware of Draupadi's predicament
No miracles work unless the recipient is in full faith
Zoroaster Quotes Do not lose joy in life as you grow old in years. Let not your 'joie de vivre be crushed under the weight of years.
It is not at all necessary that the one through which Grace functions is mentally aware of what is happening. That is why though Krishna was not aware of Draupadi's predicament at Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev
By my love and my hope I beseech you - do not forsake hero in your soul!
that moment, still Grace worked for her.
day, Krishna was having lunch. Satyabhama was serving him. Halfway through the meal, he got up and said, "One of my devotees is in trouble. I need to go." He washed his hands and went. Just before the gate, he suddenly
aware of the situation. The investment of energy that has been made through the initiation functions by itself. You just have to open up the bounty that has been given to you. Do not think of faith in the sense of how people are talking
at that moment, still Grace worked for her. Excerpted from the October 2014 issue of Forest Flower. The 59th birth anniversary of Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev will be observed on Sept 3
Already, all of us have experienced impermanence, which is just another form of dying. What hasn't changed in one way or another? Everything is always changing. Can we see the transient nature of every single being and thing? If we start training ourselves to observe the changing nature of our everyday situations, we can be on our way to freedom from suffering.
ing the story-knot: letting go of our concepts, ideas, and expectations around how we think living and dying ought to be. It also calls us to "practice dying"-that is, to let go, surrender, and give away, in the best of worlds, to practice generosity. For it is generosity that is an expression of letting go, thankfulness, altruism, and kindness, all qualities that can support a sane and
one man who suffered from AIDSrelated lymphoma experienced a profound insight into the nature of impermanence. Several months later, as active dying unfolded, he was hospitalized. The tumors pressed against nerves and caused him such terrible pain. When I visited him, he expressed gratitude for having seen that all things do change, because he knew this would include the expe-
Truth is best (of all that is) good. As desired, what is being desired is truth for him who (represents) the best truth. (Gathas 27.14)
He who sows the ground with care and diligence acquires a greater stock of religious merit than he could gain by the repetition of ten thousand prayers
Explore the River of the Soul; whence or in what order you have come...
We're linked by inevitability of loss & death Can we see the transient nature of every
Beware of lust; it corrupteth both the body and the mind.
single being and thing? If we start training ourselves to observe the changing nature of our everyday situations, we can be on our way to freedom from suffering. What is meant by suffering? It is not just the experience of heavy mental and physical pain. It is also the subtle experience of being out of harmony, out of sorts, not quite happy, a little dissatisfied with what we thought was so great. Accepting impermanence and our shared mortality requires loosen-
gentle death. We can do this now; at any time, we can start practicing letting go, practicing dying. And if we do, we might also start to perceive the interdependence of suffering and joy-that life and death are not separate but intertwined like roots deep in the earth. During a meditation retreat,
Joan Halifax
rience of his pain. Adapted from Being With Dying: Cultivating Compassion and Fearlessness in the Presence of Death. Joan Halifax, 74, is an American Zen Buddhist teacher, anthropologist, ecologist, civil rights activist, hospice caregiver, and author of several books
When we are in doubt whether an action is good or bad, abstain from it.
Ability in a man is knowledge which emanates from divine light
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Dr. Parti addressing an audience at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Sedona, Arizona
VINOD DHAWAN India Post News Service
D
r Rajiv Parti was a wealthy man of science with a success ful career as the Chief of Anestheology at the Bakersfield
Book cover
Heart Hospital in California. He lived with his dentist wife Arpana and three children in an "extremely large house" in the beautiful San Joaquin valley. As he relates in his fascinating book, 'Dying to Wake Up,' his cars went from average Fords and Toyotas to Mercedes and Lexus and then to the "supercars" like Porsche and a Humber. His goal was a bigger everything - house, cars, art collection, bank accounts. He made millions of dollars trading stock, and also lost millions. As an expert in modern medicine, Dr Parti viewed himself as a master of his fate, a miracle worker who was immune to all ailments. He lived a life of indulgence drinking and taking antidepressants when feeling low. He had come to believe that doctors
don't get sick. "And if we do, we can treat the illness immediately, stop it in its tracks." And then reality struck. At the age of 51, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Complications arose and things became so bad that even after six surgeries his condition went on deteriorating. A seventh surgery was ordered and this is when some strange things started happening. Under deep sedation on the operation table he was asleep even as the anesthologist was asking some questions. But instead of losing consciousness, he found himself elevating and watching the whole scene of his own surgery from the ceiling. There was an obnoxious smell emanating from his own surgery. The anestheologist told an offcolor joke which Dr Parti made it a point to remember to later prove the case of his out-of-body experience. Dr Parti writes that "he watched in rapt amazement as the surgeons and nurses irrigated the infection from the recesses around my organs with purified water and swabbed it out with
gauze held at the end of forceps." He wanted to tell the surgeons something but could not communicate. He saw his face in total repose as though nothing was going on with the body it represented. Is that really me, or is this really me?, he wondered. Soon he understood that there is a soul and it can survive outside the body. He found that "an extraordinary shift" had taken place in his perspective. "My field of vision became much wider and my consciousness expanded well beyond whatever it had been before," he writes. Then his vision gravitated to New Delhi, seven thousand miles away where his mother and sister sat talking on a sofa. He could hear they were talking about what to make for dinner but when he called out "Mom, I am here," she could not hear and his "hands passed through her as if she was made of clouds." Or am I the one made of clouds, he wondered. The universe pulled him away to a scene "loud with the sound of thunder" and "screams of pain and anguish as wildfire moved
Dr Rajiv Parti
Parti was taught lessons that he wouldn't forget. His father in his anger used to beat him up. But now he was communicating to him: "Don't pass the anger to your sons." This was traumatic as Parti did not have good rela-
HAPPY FAMILY: Dr Rajiv Parti with his wife and children
he died." And now he was spiritually rescuing him from hell. At every stage in his NDE Dr
2. What is the difference between the spiritual experience obtained through meditation and the one you obtained through NDE? I would say that both experiences ultimately lead to the same state, which is the highest form of consciousness, often called Brahman. But the paths are different in intensity and quality. And one path, meditation, can be chosen. There is no mathematical formula to make NDE happen.
India Post News Service
1. Thousands undergo surgeries everyday and are administered anesthesia. Not everyone gets the NDE experience. Why did you (and some others) get it? This is a very good but difficult question to answer. The answer is tied to the difficult question: What is consciousness? Does the body produce it? Or does consciousness use the body to manifest? Because of my experience, I am of the latter school.
over burned souls that withered from the intense heat." He was on the "lip of hell." From here he was rescued by "the last person I ever expected to see‌my father" with whom he never had a good relationship. He looked "at least thirty years younger than when
Cont'd on Page 52
tions with his own son, Raghav, whom he had forced to study medicine when his interest lay elsewhere. Next, moving through a tunnel, he met a crowd of ancestors who touched him briefly, leaving lot of information telepathically. Also, a vision of some of his previous lives in which had been a cruel prince and a poppy farmer. His father led him ahead into a bright soothing light into the tunnel till a point when two angelic forms took charge of him. Telepathically they introduced themselves as Michael and Raphael, archangels of the Bible. With later research he learned that Saint Michael is the protector of people and Saint Raphael is the angel of healers. Cont'd on Page 51
September 2, 2016
India Post 51
Near Death Experience of an Indian American doc Cont'd from Page 50
Together they lifted him and took him into higher and higher planes where Parti felt nervous "at being in this formless, nameless environment." Michael comforted him saying "The higher you go up in the spiritual realms, the more formless it becomes." Raphael added, "You become surrounded by a powerful entity of energy, of pure love and intelligence, and this pure love is the base reality, the
ing his life and how nobody was prepared to believe his experience. The invaluable lessons he learnt he has put down in the book. Among them is a very significant one about forgiveness. Consciousness healing in short was a process of "Forgive, love and heal." At the end of the book, Dr Parti has provided his own 'Near Death Manifesto.' Seven basic truths that provide guidance and comfort on a daily basis:
Ronald Reagan UCLA Hospital where Dr. Rajiv Parti's surgery was performed
underlying fabric, of everything in the universe. It is the source of all creation, the creative force of the universe." The angels moved him upward rapidly toward a "Being of Light." As they moved closer to the "Being, my guardian angels became so translucent that they nearly disappeared," he says. The being was a silver-blue form that showed no sign of being male or female. "It took me into its space and engulfed me with its blue Light. I knew I was loved and that it knew more about me than I about it…" and "the more I became wrapped with the Being of Light, the more distinct became the chant of Om," he writes. The Being of Light communicated telepathically: "You need to look at your life one more time. It's important to reflect on changes that you need to make…Everything will be all right for you" as he returns to his earthly life. "Now you will become a healer of the soul." He was told that in view of his own addictions and the enlightenment he was now receiving, he was ready to move into the realm of spiritual medicine which he called "consciousnessbased healing." The two angels promised to help him in this mission whenever he required. The rest of the book is about how Dr Parti went about chang-
1. Consciousness can exist outside the body. 2. There is life after death 3. We have past lives, and our experiences therein can shape our current realities 4. We are all connected to each other because we are all made of the one and same energy that manifests as differentiated matter 5. Divine beings exist to help and guide us 6. There are different levels of
Rare & vivid description It is rare that people who have gone beyond the mind-body realm are able to describe their out-ofbody experience. In India, many people may have had such experiences but they would not be able to describe them or write about them. Also they may have been told by their gurus that if they reveal the experience, they might lose it. Dr Parti's is one of the most vivid descriptions and unless one is into spirituality, one would not believe them. His claims may not have a significant impact but his transformation after this experience is what attracts more attention. What led him into this experience is more relevant for ordinary people and can lead them to improve their lives. It seems his urge in his youth to get to the bottom of the purpose of life must have lingered on to trigger such an experience. He describes in the book how, when a student in India, he went to the Himalayas to become a monk in the Ramakrishna Mission. He was politely turned back but the early inclination may not have really left him. As for his out-of-this world experiences, those who think in terms of miracles will miss the point. It is more of a matter of being able to raise your consciousness to higher Reality levels, and
Dr Parti's former luxurious home in California which he sold after his NDE
consciousness 7. There is one, all-pervading, supreme love and intelligence that is the source of the entire universe, and that love is the supreme source of creation.
such consciousness is available to everybody. And the nature of experiences depends on your belief system, as detailed in the accompanying article by Colin Drake.
Another NDE experience & power of Awareness COLIN DRAKE
H
ere is an account of the power of going beyond the separate self, and recognizing the Awareness that is ever present, in combating suffering and despair. It also discusses various possible after death scenarios which are interesting but which cannot be directly verified by direct investigation. This is from a reader of Nonduality Highlights regarding the power of nondual teachings during times of physical suffering, and the effect that these had on his near death experiences: "… The errors did not end. The fever persisted. So I had a five and a half hour surgery where they took five liters of pus out of my abdomen and found that my gallbladder was gangrenous and exploded in the surgeons hands when he removed it. I have two tubes (Jackson Pratts) hanging out of my abdomen that I have to empty approximately 4 times per hour.
Colin Drake
I am admitted weekly for CT scans, fluoroscopy and tube adjustments. Monday I will have my 16th surgery in six and a half months. I realize that I did not need to write to you, nor tell you all of this. I only say this: I would kiss your (the contributors to, and editors of, Nonduality Highlights) feet if I could because every day of my life is filled with so much pain and exhaustion and I have been through so very much and there seems to be no clear end to all of this in sight. BTW, I also died for four minutes and forty seconds in the ICU during all this adventure. [This story is told below]. Were it not for the teaching of non-duality I am certain I would have killed myself by now. My deepest love, respect and gratitude to you and your beautiful team of editors. Infinite Love [The writer, who has been kept
anonymous, continues]
My story If you feel that my story could be helpful, feel free to use it as you wish. It has been the great power of lucid Awareness that keeps revealing again and again, that the lamp of Consciousness can consume everything when I let go and allow it to consume the me-thought. I would like to share a bit about my near death experience. Briefly, I did not see light. I did not experience love. This was, initially, a profound shock to me because I have trusted for decades that the ONE was Light Whose singular quality was Love. I entered an unspeakable Vastness that was not light, nor was it darkness. It was not a something and there was nothing present in this nothingness that was empty of anything at all except boundary-less pristine Awareness. Naked infinite Awareness inseparable from the absolute living nothingness being experienced. No thought. No I. Just this no-thing-ness. After a time, I was aware of something communicating with me without words yet I perfectly understood. "Stay or go back. But if you stay any longer, you will not be able to go back." It was a difficult decision for me because I knew the road to recovery would not be an easy one. When I knew I wanted to return, light...scintillating appeared with a love I cannot begin to describe. I remember how painful it was to actually enter the body again; the body seemed ridiculously small for the infinitude I recognized as the only I there is. And so the morsels sublimely via NDHighlights and Daily Dharma have been an ever flowing lifeline; an unceasing and uncompromising light in a bodily journey that seems bereft of any certain closure. Infinite Love" The above account has reinforced for me the power of nondual teachings, discoveries, and beliefs to inspire. I particularly liked his description of how: 'the great power of lucid Awareness that keeps revealing again and again, that the lamp of Consciousness can consume everything when I let go and allow it to consume the me-thought.' Cont'd on Page 52
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Another NDE experience & power of Awareness Cont'd from Page 51
It was also exciting to hear about his direct near death experience which resonates with what can be directly discovered by investigation of one's moment to moment experience enabling Awareness of (and identification with) Pure Awareness. It also tallies with the Tibetan Book of The Dead which states that: "When your respiration ceases all phenomena will become empty and utterly naked like space. A naked Awareness will arise ... radiant, empty and without horizon or centre. It is beyond substance, beyond characteristics, beyond colour, completely empty of inherent existence in any respect whatsoever. This radiant essence is a brilliant emptiness." Although this is exciting confirmation it does not imply that this is the only after death experience that takes place. For the Bhagavad Gita indicates that what occurs depends on your belief system:
"Those who worship the devas will go to the realm of the devas; those that worship their ancestors will be united with them after death. Those who worship phantoms will become like phantoms; but my devotees will come to Me (Krishna). Chapter 9 verse 25." This indicates a wide range of possible scenarios which is borne out by the various accounts given by those who have experienced
their NDE; which is once again borne out by their recounted experiences. Then there is the wide belief in reincarnation in the eastern religions once again mentioned in the Bhagvad Gita: "Every creature in the universe is subject to rebirth Arjuna, except the one who is united with Me. Chapter 8 verse 16." Which presumably occurs after spending some time in the realm that has been visited imme-
There are the Western religions with their beliefs in Heaven, Hell and Purgatory which some followers claim to have encountered in their NDEs. This gives some credence to the aforementioned idea that your beliefs create your after death experience. NDEs. It also accounts for those who claim to have been reunited with their loved ones. Presumably those who believe in nothing, that is to say atheists, encounter nothing before returning from
diately after death: "When they have enjoyed these fully their merit is exhausted and they return to this land of death (are reborn). Thus caught in an endless chain of desires they
Dr Parti answers 10 questions Cont'd from Page 50
3. You owe your transformation to "Angels and Being of Light" who may not be accessible to ordinary humans. What is your take then on present-day gurus to whom they turn? Angels and Being of Light are available through practice of prayer, meditation and service. One does not need to have an NDE to transform. It is available right now. The Being of Light experience is very similar to the Universal form shown by Lord Krishna to Arjuna in the holy book of Hindus, Gita. 4. The consciousness-based healing that you now claim to be practicing is proved only by one instance and that also through informal conversation with your friend Sanjay. You have given no example of any healing through your formal practice. That is the subject matter of the next book. 5. Since you obtained NDE after injection of anesthesia, would you recommend use of drugs to attain some higher experiences of spirituality? An NDE-like experience could be mimicked by drugs, but it does not usually have a lasting transformative effect. So, I would not recommend the use of drugs.
An anesthetic drug called Ketamine can give a dissociative out of body experience. But it is very rarely used in adults. 6. Use of drugs is only increasing in the world and it is an underground business worth millions. Why do people take drugs? People take drugs because their needs are not being met, especially when there is some sort of deep trauma. The trauma can derive from childhood, past lives and family constellations. 7. By the end of the book you say "Whatever is happening is perfect, and that's the way it is and
There is day because there is night, there is good because there is bad. So, at the relative level of everyday living, we need to do our best. should be." Would you repeat that in the context of the terrorism and violence now going on in the world? No, obviously I would not repeat that in terms of violence and
terrorism. I was talking from the ultimate perspective. It is the question that I think humanity has been trying to answer since the beginning: If God is all loving and powerful, then why do innocents suffer; why is there evil? I believe there is day because there is night, there is good because there is bad. So, at the relative level of everyday living, we need to do our best. 8. Do you revisit your NDE experience in memory or is it fresh every time? The experience is there in memory, but during deep meditative states I relive it. 9. Are you conscious of being separate; connected to the Divine, or both? I would say both. During day to day, ordinary living I am separate. But during deep meditative states one feels connected to the Divine, the so-called Samadhi state. 10. After your experience, can you state what pulls the soul up and what weighs it down? This can be easily categorized in what is often spoken of as Gunas, of which there are three: Sattavic, Rajasic and Tamasic. For exact definitions, you may google. Sattavic things thoughts, food and activities pull the soul up, and Tamasic things pull it down.
come and go. Chapter 9 verse 21." Then there are the Western religions with their beliefs in Heaven, Hell and Purgatory which some followers claim to have encountered in their NDEs. This gives some credence to the aforementioned idea that your beliefs create your after death experience. To this we could add the advice given by 'channelled spirits' such as Emmanuel, channelled by Pat Rodegast In 'Emmanuel's Book' and admired by Ram Dass: "Death is like taking off a tight shoe. You do not cease to exist after death. That is only an illusion. You go through the doorway of death alive And there is no altering of the
consciousness. It is not a strange land you go to But a land of living reality Where the growth process is a continuation." What do we experience immediately after death? There are as many individual ways to leave a body As there are to live in one. Why would it be supposed that one's creative ability ceases at the moment consciousness leaves the physical? Which once again indicates that one's death experience is dictated by one's thoughts, or belief system. Colin Drake is a Spirituality Teacher based in Australia. He is the author of 15 books on 'Awakening By Direct Investigation'
Aamir to train two students every year
A
amir Khan's unconven tional choice of films has created a niche image of the actor in the fraternity. People have been curious to understand how the actor has been working for cinema for over such a long time. Aamir, who has often visited colleges as a guest speaker, has been frequently presented with queries from young students, who are keen to work for the cinema industry requesting if they could get the required training and schooling from the actor himself. And now, Aamir has now decided to train two students every year, who could literally get an opportunity to be the actors' shadow which w o u l d help them absorb the workings of cinema. These students would be under the learning stage full time and this process would not be less then interning at any place. Aamir is very keen that the students join him for all his shoots, his meetings, his reading sessions, his rehearsals and all that goes
behind working for the industry of cinema. Starting from now, Aamir's first two students have already joined the actor and have started the work on the job. Fatima Sana Shaikh (who would be playing the character of Geeta Phogat) and Sanya Malhotra (who would be playing the character of Babita Kumari in the upcoming film Dangal) are the actor's first two students. These students will be exposed to everything that the actor does. Starting from now, Aamir would train them personally till March next year. The spokesperson confirmed the same and added, "Aamir persona l l y wants t o pass o n h i s worki n g experiences of past and is keen to share and motivate the next generation of talent. He would train two students every year". Following this, Aamir would then have the next two students who would again have the same pattern of learning.
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Kangana film with SRK being planned
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he is one actress in Bollywood whose box-of fice scorecard has not depended on the male lead of her films, and her versatility has won her fans like megastar Amitabh Bachchan and superstar Aamir Khan. Now she is likely to star with Shah Rukh Khan, but she says the project is at a very premature stage. Rumors have been rife that Shah Rukh and Kangana are going to work in a Sanjay Leela Bhansali film. Asked about it, Kangana said in an interview: "Sanjay sir just spoke to me about the film, saying that he wants to make it with me and Shah Rukh sir. But it's at a very premature stage. It's not that I am working with Shah Rukh sir tomorrow or something like that... So, yeah, like I said, it's at a very premature stage." The actress was the showstopper for designer Tarun Tahiliani, who flagged off the
Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) Winter/Festive 2016 in Mumbai. The "Queen" of Bollywood feels fortunate to be a part of such grandeur. "I think I am very fortunate because I get these opportunities. I am an actress and my film characters are usually not very fashion-inspired. As an artiste, I don't know where and how these opportunities just come my way
where I get to work with the finest artistes in the country and get to display or wear their designs and even get to see their collections," said the National Award winner. She says these chances help her to know more about fashion and understand it better. "I am an artiste and I love to be inspired. If I wasn't walking the ramp, I would never get exposed to these collections. I am so busy that I can't participate in the whole fashion scene that is going on in the country, but because I work with designers and their shows, I get to know so much about them and the fashion industry," she added. On the big screen, Kangana will be next seen in a biopic on Rani Lakshmibai, a character she feels inspired by in many ways. "I think 'Jhansi Ki Rani' is a very relevant film for many reasons and one of those reasons is the reminder of the amount of sacrifice and work that has been put out by people. It's also a reminder to value things much more than we actually do and to instill that passion and pride for our country which people even in testing times had." Rani Lakshmibai, a fiery queen of Jhansi, had taken up arms against the British in 1857 to free her state. Kangana believes the present generation is "lost somewhere" and she feels the movie will serve the purpose of helping people value the freedom. "I do identify with it (her story) obviously... She is a very inspirational woman not just for me, but for so many other people," she added
10 National Award winners make it 'Pink' T
he trailer of Shoojit Sircar's forthcoming film, 'Pink', has compelled cinegoers to sit up and take notice of the social thriller because of its shocking content. Whether it is Amitabh Bachchan's explosive dialogues or the neverseen-before avatar of Taapsee Pannu, who along with her friends is caught up in mysterious circumstances, various elements have piqued people's curiosity. Another interesting aspect of this film, which releases on September 16, is that it has 10 National Award winners as part of its core team. While Big B has four Na-
tional Awards to his credit, cinematographer Avik Mukhopadhayay has won the honor thrice. Shoojit, producer Ronnie Lahiri, music composer Shantanu Moitra and re-recording
mixer Sinoy Joseph have one each. Director Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, sound designer Bishwadeep Chatterjee, sound mixer Nihar Ranjan Samal and sound designer Dipankar Jojo Chaki have been conferred with it twice respectively. Collectively, all of them have won 19 awards. Shoojit says, "It has been a humble privilege and an enriching experience to work with such award-winning luminaries in 'Pink'. Thanks to the film, we have formed a close and life-long friendship and I'm honored to have had such an opportunity in my career."
Richa Chadha's befitting reply to trollers
B
ollywood actress Richa Chaddha has come up with befitting replies to those who trolled her on Twitter after she answered a question about cultural similarities with Pakistan actor Fawad Khan at the Indian Film Festival in Melbourne. Twitterati described the 'Fukre' actress as a 'bimbo' and 'dimwit'. Richa refused to take the unnecessary bashing. "So, a bollywood bimbette @RichaChadha_ says she has more in common with a Muslim Pakistani than a Tam Brahm. Hahaha," tweeted a hater. The 29-year-old actress in a reply said, "Thanks. Bimbette is a first for me. Thank you so much." Another wrote, "No self respecting South Indian or any other Indian should watch this filth making industry Brothelwood." "Bollywood starlet - I've far more in common with Fawad coz I am from North India.. than i'll have with tambrahm or malayali or NE India," read another tweet. The tiff was triggered when a journo at the IIFM asked the Bollywood heartthrob about cultural disparities between India and Pakistan film industries. The 29year-old actress immediately rose to Fawad's defense, saying, "I would like to answer that. Sorry, I
am cutting in! You know we were colonized by the British for a really long time. It's a part of the... I am sorry if I am offending anybody here, but if you look at the worldwide history, every time the British left an empire they divided it. Whether it was North Korea or South Korea, then there was Germany. It is a part of the strategy to
keep political unrest to sort of maintain a global kind, I am sorry but your question to me doesn't make sense because I will have far more in common with Fawad because I am from the North of India than I will have with somebody who is a Tambrahm or maybe Malayali or from the Northeast. I think we should avoid stereotyping in questions or creating some kind of contradiction here because the whole intent and especially art doesn't really have any borders."
Jessica Alba regrets getting tattoos LONDON: Actress Jessica Alba says she regrets getting her tattoos because they are not meaningful to her anymore. The 35-year-old "Into the Blue" star, who had inked flowers on her neck and Sanskrit scripts on her wrist, said they do not make sense to her any more as she has become mature now, reported Femalefirst. "I have a few tattoos. I'm not into them now the way that I was. You're never going to be in the same place emotionally and mentally at 18 that you are at 20 or 25 or 30. "Something that's meaningful to
you when you're younger is not going to be meaningful to you five years later," she said. Alba revealed that she also regrets wearing lot of make-up when she was a teenager. "I actually wore too much make-up when I was a teenager. I wore a full face, and I probably (should have) worn a lot less. "I didn't know that there was the no-makeup makeup look until I was in my 20s. I used to use a foundation stick and just rub it all over my face and then I would break out. Then, I would wear more make-up to cover the breakout. -PTI
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Pak civilian leaders also partying with Jihadis
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OWEN BENNETT-JONES
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or many years now, the Pakistani military has been criticized for supporting violent jihadi groups. And liberals can be forgiven for having strong feelings on the subject. During the 1990s, when the Kashmir insurgency was in full swing, the liberals repeatedly predicted a backlash. The number of people killed by jihadists since then - including many in the army - shows that the liberals' warnings were well founded. But the military has not been alone in indulging the men of violence. Civilian leaders too have cut deals with jihadis who, if circumstances permitted, would like to see those politicians not only out of power but dead and buried too.
planning the attack. And Imran Khan has form in this area. When, in 2013, he agreed to head up the Pakistan Taliban's negotiating team he demonstrated not only that he thought peace could be achieved through dialogue but also that he was willing to represent and speak for the TTP. But it is not fair to single out the PTI leader. After all, in 2010 the Punjab provincial administration gave $1m to institutions linked to Jamaatud Dawa. In the same year, files recovered from Osama bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad reportedly revealed that as Punjab chief minister Shahbaz Sharif suggested the Pakistan government was ready to re-establish "normal relations" with the Pakistani Taliban as long
Imran Khan with Jihadi leaders
And this is not a point that favors one party over the others: all the mainstream parties have made compromises with the extremists. The most obvious recent example concerns the decision of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial administration to grant $3 million to Samiul Haq's Haqqani madressah. Lest anyone be in any doubt about where Samiul Haq stands on matters of contemporary politics, his recently published book claims that the Afghan Taliban provided good government; that Osama bin Laden was an "ideal man" and that Al Qaeda was a figment of the Western imagination. Perhaps more importantly, some of those who assassinated Benazir Bhutto met in his madressah whilst
as it did not conduct operations in Punjab. And there have been compromises within Punjab as well. In the run-up to the 2013 election there were widespread reports of a seat adjustment deal between the PMLN and ASWJ. Faced with criticism about these arrangements, some PML-N spokesmen did not issue a denial but argued instead that PPP exhibited a blatant double standard on the issue because it had done much the same thing in 2008. Certainly, the PPP has on occasion helped hardliners. Given what happened in Islamabad in 2007, it is astonishing that, today, Abdul Aziz Ghazi is not only back in charge of the Lal Masjid but also drawing a state salary. As a recent independent docu-
mentary, Among the Believers, has recorded, it is not as if Abdul Aziz Ghazi has changed his view on the need to overthrow the government and impose Sharia: "if you think you can change us, forget it," he said. And yet while Asif Zardari was president the authorities not only oversaw the rehabilitation of Abdul Aziz Ghazi but went as far as offering him land for a new madressah on the edge of Islamabad. The idea, it seems, was that Lal Masjid needed to be compensated for the destruction it had brought upon itself. These examples of civilian willingness to do business with violent jihadis suggest that they should not be taken too seriously when they criticize the army for doing much the same thing. Yet there is an important difference between the two. Ever since 1947-48, when the state connived in allowing Pakhtun tribesmen to go on jihad in Kashmir, the military has perceived the jihadis as a strategic asset that can help achieve various policy objectives. And some objectives have been achieved. The successful Mujahideen campaign against the Soviets in Afghanistan demonstrated that the violent jihadis can serve a purpose. The politicians have different motives. Some are simply trying to protect themselves. After all, anyone extending favors to the jihadi leadership must calculate that there will be an improved chance that they won't be the victim of an attack. But it's not just a case of avoiding physical harm. There is also the grubby business of political advantage. Politicians on all sides have calculated that if securing power depends on reaching a deal with the religious hardliners then it's a price well worth paying. For millions of Pakistanis who are not at the top of the various power structures, it might seem obvious enough that people who use violence to secure their objectives should be opposed. But most of those who have held power in Pakistan seem to have seen it differently. And while the military is often criticized for sponsoring jihadis, it's only fair to point out that the politicians have themselves repeatedly appeased them. The writer is a British journalist and author of 'Pakistan: Eye of the Storm'. Courtesy Dawn, August 25
Preparation is all I
ndia went wild recently celebrating two losing Olympic medals brought home by a contingent of 117 sportspersons. Silver medal winning PV Sindhu and bronze medal winner Sakshi were promised crores of rupees in awards by State governments, corporates and wealthy individuals. (How much of that will actually end up in their pocket is a different story).Sachin Tendulkar went to the extent of gifting BMWs to the two winners and also to the badminton coach Gopichand. Contrast this with the money spent on preparations for the Olympics. Here the faction ridden sports bodies were engaged in politics. It is reported the Sports minister Sarbananda Sonowal did not give much attention to the preparations as he was busy electioneering in Assam of which state he is now the BJP chief minister. And what about the corporate and wealthy individuals? It is said the wealthy are unable to decide whom to give so that the money is made good use of. The sports associations headed by politicians cannot be trusted. The money is usually siphoned off in enriching themselves and not spending on athletes' preparation. Imagine, badminton coach P Gopichand had to mortgage his house to build his badminton academy in Hyderabad, which finally gave a silver and bronze in the sport in two consecutive Olympics (2012 and 2016). But after the event he is now being feted. The athletes themselves may not have taken seriously to the preparations as they know they cannot make a living by sports. They have to carry on with their jobs also. Sports other than cricket are not given much weightage as a career option, because they appear neither financially lucrative nor glamorous. Then there are the enmities among players as for instance in tennis. India's tenth ranked player Rohan Bopanna was not prepared to partner Leander Paes in the tennis doubles team but he was forced to do so by the federation. They hardly prepared together and were ousted in the first round itself. Their only practice match was against a dilapidated South Korean Davis Cup team which is not the way to prepare for the Olympics. In fact, India doesn't have a culture of games. Making a living is such a hard fact that after a few years of playing, sportsmen turn their attention to taking up any job with a regular income. At the grassroots-level, schools and colleges lack basic infrastructure that can encourage sports, so even if someone has a natural talent in a particular sport, it gets crushed at the school-level itself. The concept of sports school or college is still not seen as an option in India's education system. However, after the disappointing show in Rio, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set up a task force to create a strategy to help sportspersons prepare for the next three Olympics. The task force would cover infrastructure, training and selection. Let us hope there will be seriousness injected in the business of sports. A majority of Indians still live in rural areas where there are no sports facilities at all. Even in urban India, a very large number of lower middle class to middle class children have extremely limited sports facilities. In spite of that there are some disciplines in which some regions excel. Amid the post mortems, columnist Anil Dharker points out that if we look at our 15 individual medals in the Olympics so far, as many as five have come from wrestling and four from shooting. "It is clear where our strength lies," he says. "We could add related fields for future success, fields in which we have already tasted some international success - archery and weight-lifting. These are what we should concentrate on - others like tennis or badminton or gymnastics will always get the occasional Sania Mirza or Sindhu or Dipa Karmakar, but they will be exceptions." Maybe Modi's task force will make a note of this analysis.
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