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Dr Raju named to head NYC's Neel Kashkari to run for public hospital system California governor
New York: New York City's new Mayor Bill de Blasio has named Dr Ramanathan Raju, an eminent Indian-origin doctor, as President of Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC), the nation's largest public hospital system. The mayor announced Raju's appointment Tuesday along with Maria TorresSpringer as head of Small Business Services, with a pledge to deepen each agency's connections to neighborhoods across the city's five boroughs. "As public servants with deep expertise at their respective agencies, both Continued on page 4 Washington: Former US Treasury official Neel Kashkari, architect of the bank bailout during the 2008 financial crisis, plans to run for governor of California with a pledge to create jobs and improve public schools. "Today, the gift of a good education and the opportunity it creates are out of reach for millions of struggling Californians," he said in a speech Tuesday at the 2014 Sacramento Business Review at California State University, Sacramento. "That's why I'm running for governor: To create jobs and give kids a quality education. Jobs and education. That's it. That's my platform," said Kashkari, 40, a Republican Continued on page 4
Kashkari was architect of the $700 billion TARP bailout of financial institutions threatened by the 2008 financial crisis.

Dr Ramanathan Raju

Jains rejoiced by getting minority India to withdraw pre-2005 currency notes status in India: Acharya Lokesh
New Delhi: Congratulating the Jain community on receiving Minority Status at national level, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said Thursday this will help Jain community in social welfare activities. She was addressing a Jain delegation led by Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni at her residence on Thursday. Dr Lokesh Muni, founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, expressed gratitude on behalf of the whole Jain community to the Government of India for announcing Monday Minority Status for the Jain community. He said Indian Republic is based on Bhagwan Mahavirs philosophy of unity in diversity. Indian culture of unity in diversity where everybodys opinions and Continued on page 4

The post-2005 currency notes have the year of printing on the reverse side, pre-2005 notes do not have the year.

Mumbai: Indian Currency notes issued before 2005 will be completely withdrawn from circulation by the end of the current financial

year ending March 31, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said Wednesday. Continued on page 4

Acharya Lokesh Muni led a Jain delegation to Mrs Sonia Gandhis residence in Delhi to express the communitys gratitude to the UPA government for minority status.

US Affairs 10

Literature 15

Travel 18

Spiritual Awareness 30

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January 25-31, 2014

'Perplexed' India says US probably still most important ally

Washington: The case of the Indian consul arrested and strip-searched in New York last month was handled "appallingly" and needs to be resolved, but the United States remains probably India's most important ally, the Indian ambassador to Washington said on Tuesday. "I won't underplay this incident, I won't overplay this incident. I think we need to see it in perspective," S. Jaishankar said in an interview to Reuters. "I think we are in the midst of working this one out." Jaishankar said India was "perplexed" by the decisions of US authorities to arrest and strip-search 39-year-old Devyani Khobragade, India's deputy consul in New York, after she was accused of visa fraud and underpaying her maid. "There was a fair measure of anger about both the substance of the problem and the way it was handled," he said. "It was not just done publicly; frankly it was done appallingly." But Jaishankar, who arrived in Washington in December after serving as Indian ambassador to China, played down the impact on the practical side of the relationship emphasizing that the two sides were still talking despite the postponement of two high-level US visits this staff serving overseas. Asked if India supported a demand from Khobragade's lawyer for the charges against her to be dropped, he said, "That is an issue in respect of this diplomat, but I think there is a larger issue of immunities and privileges." Until the issue was resolved, Jaishankar said, the level of immunity enjoyed by US consular officials in India would be reduced to exactly the level granted in the United States. India sharply curbed privileges offered to U.S. diplomats in retaliation for Khobragade's treatment and asked Washington to withdraw a diplomat from New Delhi. It also ordered the U.S. Embassy to close a club for expatriate Americans in New Delhi, and a government source said it was also preparing steps against the American Embassy School, which it suspected may be employing some staff in violation of visa rules.

Devyani's husband, kids to join her in India

Indian envoy to Washington, S. Jaishankar

month, including one by U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz. "Frankly, it's probably the most important relationship," he said. "We are not holding up business, or Pentagon dealings, or congressional dealings ... or science programs and saying, 'They don't get done until things get sorted out.'" Jaishankar said, however, there was a need to resolve both the Khobragade case and the broader issue of the lesser level of diplomatic immunity accorded to Indian and other foreign consular staff in America compared with what Washington expects for its consular

New Delhi: Devyani Khobragade, the Indian diplomat at the centre of an Indo-US diplomatic spat, is to be soon reunited with her family. The 39-year-old Khobragade returned to India Jan 10, leaving behind her Indian American husband and two daugihter, ages ages 7 and 4. They are to join her in India soon, according to sources. Her husband is New York-born Aakash Singh Rathore, an academic Khobragade's Dec 12 handcuffing and strip-search for alleged visa fraud and underpaying her nanny triggered outrage in India, leading to a standoff with the US. She was indicted by a grand jury for visa fraud and making false statements about the employment of nanny Sangeeta Richard. She was told to leave the US after India refused to waive her diplomatic immunity to face trial. After her arrival in India, Khobragade had said in interviews to media that she was missing her children. She has joined the ministry of external affairs in the Development Partnership Administration (DPA) department.

Devyani after her return to India and (right) her academic husband Aakash Singh Rathore.

With the cases against her still standing and the US unwilling to take them back, Khobragade cannot return to America. According to Indian laws, the spouses of Indian diplomats have to be Indian. With Khobragade's husband being an American -- albeit of Indian origin, how the new issue would be resolved has to be seen.

SoS center in LI to hold spiritual poetry evening Jan 25

Amityville, NY: The annual was a Master of Surat Shabd Ruhani Mushaira, an uplifting Yoga and the founder of Science program of spiritual poetry honof Spirituality/Sawan Kirpal oring Sant Darshan Singh Ji Ruhani Mission. He was Maharaj, will take place acclaimed as Indias greatest Saturday, January 25 from 6:30 mystic poet writing in the Urdu pm at the Science of Spirituality language. He won four Urdu Meditation Center (SoS), here. Academy Awards for poetry. His The Mushaira brings together poetic works, honored in India distinguished presenters, rich in and abroad, was born not of literary heritage, including imagination but of personal The annual Ruhani Sadarat, Qaseem Bin Nasam experience. He believed in the Amrohvi; keynote presenters, Mushaira honors Sant brotherhood of all humankind Darshan Singh Ji Maulana Rehan Naqvi and and wished to unite all people Maharaj Tarlok Singh; facilitator, Johri in the silken bonds of love as Kohli, and advisor, Hasnain Raza. Amrohvi is the panacea for the challenges of this worldly an acclaimed poet from Pakistan. Maulana life. His many books, articles and tapes spread Naqvi, PhD is a scholar who is doing a spe- a message of love, unity and peace all over the cialized doctoral thesis on the poetry and spiri- globe. tual mission of Sant Darshan Singh Ji Science of Spirituality/Sawan Kirpal Ruhani Maharaj. Tarlok Singh is a distinguished pro- Mission is a nonprofit, multi-faith organizafessor of Urdu from India. tion that provides a forum for people to learn This mystical inspiration and spiritual rever- meditation, experience personal transformaie session will be followed by a vegetarian tion, and bring about inner and outer peace dinner (langar). The program is free of charge. and human unity. Contact: 516-901-6662; All are welcome. or soshindisatsangny@yahoo.com; Sant Darshan Singh Ji Maharaj (1921-1989) www.sos.org.

Takat wins JCK-Jewlers Choice Award

New York: Takat gems and jewelry company has won the First Place in Tanzanite Jewlery Over $10,000 category in JCK-Jewelers Choice Awards. The announcement came mid-January, a proud Rayaz Ahmed Takat, CEO of Takat, told The South Asian Times. Rayaz Takat is delighted with the recognition of their excellence in design because JCK in Las Vegas is the biggest in jewelry shows in America. Takat jewelry pieces all made in America -- have been worn on the red carpet by celebs and stars on many occasions. Their website asserts that Takat jewelry offers elegance and simplicity crafted from the finest precious materials. Each piece of jewelry creates an unmistakable presence with a sense of timeless mystery and glamour. Takat means strength in Hindustani. Takat company founder, Haji Nisar Ahmed Takat, descended from an ancient Indian family of precious stone craftsmen. Starting out in 1955 from Jaipur, in 1976, with the help of his sons Siraj Ahmed and Rafeeq Ahmed, he set up a small office for trading in the city. In 1994, the two sons started exhibiting in gems and jewelry trade shows around the world. In

This masterpiece won Takat the Best Jewelry Tanzanite Design award 2014in over $10,000 category. (Right) Rayaz Ahmed Takat, CEO of the company.

1996, the company opened their first trade office in Bangkok. In 2000, Rayaz Ahmed, grandson of the founder, opened the companys trade office in New York City. In 2005, he established a studio for designing and creating jewelry in New York. Takat is a member of professional gemstone and jewelry organizations in many parts of the world. Rayaz Ahmed Takat has served on the Board of Indian Diamond and Colorstone Association (IDCA) since 2010 and for 2013 was its Joint Secretary.

January 25-31, 2014

Dr Raju named to head NYC's... Continued from page 1 Torres-Springer and Raju are poised to aggressively implement progressive, community-based reforms," de Blasio said. "We sought out progressive, proven leaders who are committed to serving diverse communities across this city. And in Maria and Raju, we found them." "I am excited to return to the HHC," said Raju, a Staten Islander. "Under my leadership, the HHC will continue its mission of ensuring New Yorkers have access to quality health care options - from major hospitals to neighborhood clinics no matter where they live." Raju, who graduated from Madras Medical College, is currently CEO of Chicago's Cook County Health and Hospital System, the third largest health system in the US. He is credited with improving CCHHS's quality of care, increasing revenues, and cutting costs by leveraging federal resources, restructuring the system's operation, and utilizing technology to increase efficiency and make the health care system more accessible to patients. Raju, who brings more than 30 years of experience in public and not-for-profit hospital systems, began his medical career at Lutheran Medical Centre in Brooklyn, where he ascended to the positions of Director of Surgery, Director of Medical Education, and Senior Vice President. He went on to serve as the COO and CMO at Coney Island Hospital, and then as CMO, Corporate COO and Executive Vice President at the New York Citys Health and Hospitals Corporation. His appointment must be ratified by the HHC board. Raju is not the only IndianAmerican serving in the new mayor's cabinet. Rahul Merchant is NYC's first Citywide Chief Information and Innovation Officer (CIIO) and the 7th Commissioner of

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the Deptt of IT and Telecommunications. Meenakshi Srinivasan is the Chair of the Board of Standards and Appeals, which is a part of the city's system for regulation of land use, development and construction. Neel Kashkari to run for... Continued from page 1 of Indian origin, according to his website. But unseating a popular Democrat Governor Jerry Brown, who is widely expected to run for re-election, will be an uphill battle for Kashkari, a political novice, according San Jose Mercury News. Right now, Kashkari's only Republican challenger is California assembly member, Tim Donnelly, a tea party favorite and staunch social conservative. "In the coming weeks, Kashkari's favorability among the state's Republican and independent voters will be tested, as will his ability to raise enough money to be competitive against Brown, who has already amassed a campaign war chest of $17 million," Mercury News said. Kashkari, a first-generation American whose parents emigrated from India 50 years ago, was appointed to the Department of Treasury in 2006 by then Republican President George W. Bush. "When the financial crisis erupted, he worked to bring together lawmakers from both parties to write and pass landmark legislation to prevent widespread economic collapse," his website claimed. "The program he implemented not only has recouped all the money spent, but also has made a $13 billion profit for taxpayers to date," it said. "If we could break the back of the worst economic crisis our country has faced in 80 years, then I know we can break the back of the crisis that is destroying opportunity for California families and kids," he

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said. Kashkari also named new members of his campaign team, which includes political consultants who advised Republican presidential candidates Mitt Romney and John McCain and former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Kashkari grew up in a middleclass household outside Akron, Ohio. He earned his MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and went to California to help Silicon Valley entrepreneurs raise capital to grow their companies and create jobs. Kashkari, a multimillionaire who lives in Laguna Beach in Orange County, previously worked for Goldman Sachs. Last year, Kashkari quit his job as an investment banking executive and began travelling across the state and mulling his run for governor, meeting with potential donors, community organizations and regular Californians, according to Mercury News. India to withdraw pre-2005 notes... Continued from page 1 The central bank said from April 1, 2014, public would be required to approach banks for exchanging these notes. Banks will provide exchange facility for these notes until further communication, the RBI said in a statement. The central bank stated that public can easily identify the notes to be withdrawn as those issued before 2005 do not have the year of printing on their reverse side. RBI has also clarified that the notes issued before 2005 will continue to be legal tender. This would mean that banks are required to exchange the notes for their customers as well as for non-customers. From July 1, however, to exchange more than 10 pieces of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, non-customers will have to furnish proof of identity and residence to the bank branch in which she/he wants to exchange the notes. The Reserve Bank has appealed to the public not to panic. They are requested to actively cooperate in the withdrawal process, the statement said. On Thursday, RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan clarified that the order to withdraw all currency notes printed and issued before 2005 was not a demonetisation measure and has nothing to do with the coming elections. The measure was necessary to neutralize the fake currency in circulation, he said, as the post-2005 notes have better security factors. On black money, bankers say that the process could have implication on unaccounted currency in circulation. Although all banks have been asked to freely exchange currencies, bankers say that RBI norms require that every transaction over Rs 10 lakh has to be reported to the authorities as a part of global antimoney laundering norms. Jains rejoiced by getting minority... Continued from page 1 personality is given importance is the basis for development, he added. Honored with National Communal Harmony Award, the Acharya said following Bhagwan Mahavirs philosophy and path shown by him can solve global problems like terrorism and violence. He said the non-violent and peaceful Jain community has contributed greatly in national and social development. Sonia Gandhi agreed that we should follow Bhagwan Mahavirs teachings of non-violence, co-existence and tolerance. She exhorted political parties, religious leaders, and NGOs to work together to end communal fanaticism and violence and strengthen national unity. Mrs Gandhi was felicitated by the Jain community with a large number of community leaders present on the occasion.

Washington: A distinguished Indian-American scholar and teacher, Rakesh Khurana, the Marvin Bower Professor of Leadership Development at Harvard Business School (HBS), has been named dean of Harvard College, a prestigious Ivy League institution. Khurana, who earned his PhD through a joint program between HBS and Harvard's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in 1998, is also professor of sociology in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS), and co-master of Cabot House. Announcing the appointment in an email to the FAS community, FAS Dean Michael D. Smith praised Khurana as a scholar and teacher with deep experience working with undergraduates and a strong commitment to the College.

Rakesh Khurana named Harvard College dean

Consulate to screen film on Frontier Gandhi

New York: As part of the Republic Day 2014 celebrations, the Consulate General of India, in association with the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, New York, is screening a film titled Frontier Gandhi: Badshah Khan, A Torch for Peace by Teri C McLuhan on January 27 at 5.30 pm at the Consulate premises (3 East 64th Street, NY). A press note from the Consulate says that all are welcome. Patrons should bring identity proof. Limited seating is on first-cum-firstserve basis. A close friend of Mahatma Gandhi, Khn Abdul Ghaffr Khn (1890 1988) is called the Frontier Gandhi by Indians. The Pashtun leader was known for his nonviolent opposition to the British Raj in India.

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India-born wireless technology pioneer wins Marconi Prize

New York: Arogyaswami Joseph Paulraj, India-born professor at Stanford University is the winner of the Marconi Prize 2014 for his pioneering work on developing wireless technology to transmit and receive data at high speed. "Paulraj's contributions to wireless technology, and the resulting benefit to humankind, are indisputable. Every WiFi (wireless fidelity) router and 4G phone uses Multiple InputMultiple Output (MIMO) technology pioneered by him," Marconi Society chairman David Payne said in a statement Wednesday from California. Named after Nobel laureate Guglielmo Marconi, who invented radio, and set up in 1974 by his daughter Gioia Marconi Braga through an endowment, the Marconi Society awards annually an outstanding individual whose scope of work and influence emulate the principle of 'creativity in service to humanity' that inspired Marconi. The prestigious prize includes $100,000 honorarium and a sculpture and its honorees become Marconi Fellows. Among the winners of the prize in the recent past were Google cofounder Larry Page, World Wide Web (www) designer Tim BernersLee, Internet founder Vint Cerf of Internet, cell phone inventor Martin Cooper and fiber-optic communications developer Charles Kao. "I am honored to be chosen for the Marconi Prize and join such an illustrious group of pioneers. It has taken efforts of thousands of engineers and researchers to make MIMO technology a reality. My role, in comparison, is indeed small," Paulraj said in the statement. MIMO boosts data rate by creating multiple parallel spatial data streams and is the key to the latest wireless broadband networks like 4G cellular. "MIMO will soon be pervasive in all wireless devices as Paulraj's work has provided fertile ground for thousands of researchers to explore and advance its potential to enhance wireless spectrum efficiency," Payne, who is also director of the opto-electronics research center at University of Southampton, asserted. The 69-year-old scientist from Coimbatore in northwest Tamil Nadu was also honored with the IEEE Alexander Graham Bell Medal in 2011 for his profound work on theo-

Indian diplomats in US face lifestyle choices

Washington, DC: Indian diplomats in the United States are in a fix. Either they begin paying their domestic helps as per US laws or adapt to a new lifestyle - taking care of their homes on their own or hiring part time help like other working couples in this country do. Indian diplomats will have to follow new regulations outlined by the White House on human trafficking, under which foreign workers employed with diplomats and other expats will have to be paid minimum wages as per US laws or face a situation like that of Devyani Khobragade, India's former deputy consul general in New York, who was sought to be prosecuted for falsification of visa documents and underpaying her nanny. While Indians are unlikely to forgive and forget the bitter diplomatic row anytime soon, there are 14 other domestic workers reportedly employed by Indian diplomats in US who could trigger another crisis by going to the authorities with similar complaints. Indian diplomats have sought to justify payment of lower wages to

Indian Consulate in New York

Prof Arogyaswami Joseph Paulraj

retical foundations of MIMO. "Paulraj is the only India-born scientist to receive both the Marconi Prize and the Bell Medal -- the two top global IT technology awards," says IndiaTechOnline.com editor Anand Parthasarathy.

domestic workers on the ground that they stay with the diplomats and all their personal needs like lodging, meals and health insurance are taken care of. However, as of March 2011, the State Department "has decided that no deductions are allowed for lodging, medical care, medical insurance or travel. As of April 2012, deductions taken for meals are also no longer allowed." To overcome the problem, the Indian government is said to be "considering significant changes in the

status" of domestic workers, or Indian-based domestic assistants (IBDA) as they are called officially that Indian diplomats take to the US and Europe. Apparently the proposal is to bring such workers to the US on "A2" visas by making them Indian government employees whose wages would not be subject to US laws. However, there is a catch here too. A1 or A-2 visas are issued to only those traveling to the US on behalf of one's "national government to engage solely in official activities for that government."

LI hospital names Dr Akshat Jain for rural India project

Indian-American student found dead in Philadelphia

New York: An Indian-Ameritime," his uncle Joginder Singh can student, who found his told The Daily Pennsylvanian. parents shot to death in their On Jan 23, 2007, brothers family home in Syosset, a Pulkit and Ankur Singh, then hamlet in New York's Nassau 13 and 12, went to school and County seven years ago has returned home seven been found dead in hours later to find their Philadelphia. parents, Jaspal, 46, The body of Pulkit and Geeta, 38, shot to Singh, 20, a student at death, Newsday said. the University of PennIn 2011, Pulkit, who sylvania's Wharton also went by the Pulkit Singh School, was discovered name Josh, told the last week in his off-campus room, New York newspaper that he was Newsday reported citing The Dai- haunted by the discovery of his ly Pennsylvanian, a college news- slain parents and by the fact that paper. the killer was still on the loose. The cause of death is being inPolice said at the time they bevestigated by the Philadelphia lieved the parents, who immigrated health department and campus po- to the US from India, had been tarlice, it said. geted. Criminality was not suspected According to his LinkedIn probut a health department official file, Pulkit Singh was pursuing told The Daily Pennsylvanian that dual degrees from the Wharton the cause of death might not be de- School of Business and the School termined for months. of Engineering and Applied Sci"He was the star of our family, ences at Penn. He expected to and he had a brain that could think graduate at least 10 or 12 years ahead of his next year.

Dr Akshat Jain visited Nayala village in Rajasthan with a colleague

Jaipur: Dr Akshat Jain, MD , MPH of the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children Medical Center in Long Island, has been named as the site director for the development of maternal and child healthcare at the rural level in India in a unique partnership between The Hofstra North Shore LIJ School of Medicine and SMS Medical College, Jaipur. Dr Jain recently visited village Nayala to oversee health activities in the health center and begin new initiatives for uplift of rural health system in India. This village caught the

limelight in 2000 when the then US President Bill Clinton visited and applauded the integrated and efficient way of healthcare delivery in rural India. Dr Jain was accompanied by the Director of the Global Health Department at the NorthShore University. She was impressed to see the work in progress here by the empowered mid level health workers. Nayala village, 30 minutes drive away from Jaipur, will serve as the hub of a wide range of rural health activities.

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Pentagon clarifies rules on beards, turbans

Washington, DC: The Defense Department released regulations Wednesday ensuring the rights of religious-minority service members to display their beliefs outwardly such as wearing a turban, scarf or beard as long as the practices do not interfere with military discipline, order or readiness. According to the Pentagon, requests for such religious accommodation will still be decided on an individual basis but will generally be denied only if the item impairs the safe use of military equipment; poses a health or safety hazard; interferes with wearing a uniform, a helmet or other military gear; or impairs the accomplishment of the military mission. The expression of sincerely held beliefs may not be used as the basis for adverse personnel action or discrimination, the new regulations state. They spell out hair, grooming practices, and religious body art such as tattoos or body piercings as eligible areas for religious accommodation. Although the new regulations were praised by leaders of national Muslim American groups as expanding the rights of Muslims and other non-Christians in the U.S. military, some Sikh American organizations criticized them for not going far enough. Leaders of the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund called the rules an expansion of current policies rather than a meaningful overall change in policy. Unfortunately, this continues to make us have to choose between our faith and serving our country, said Jasjit Singh, the groups executive director. This is an expansion of the waiver policy that is decided person by person. It does not open doors and say you can apply as a Sikh American and serve your country fully. Singh called the new rules a steppingstone in a long process by which Muslims and Sikhs have been prodding the Pentagon to ease restrictions on wearing or showing their articles of faith.

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Teen seeks to create first of its kind Bullying Index

Indian American student among Intel national finalists

reeti Kanani, 17 of Jericho most pressing challenges," said Senior High School, Long Wendy Hawkins, executive diIsland is among the 40 narector of the Intel Foundation. tional finalists in this year's Intel In an interview earlier this Science Talent Search, officials month, Kakani credited her announced Wednesday. school's science research coordiShe will join other finalists in nator, Serena McCalla, for chalWashington, D.C., from March 6lenging and inspiring her stu12 to compete for a $100,000 dents. Kakani's project dealt with grand prize as well as awards to genetic factors contributing to the the runners-up totaling more than loss of vision. $500,000. The top 10 winners will Previous Intel competitors have be announced at a black-tie, invigone on to win the Nobel Prize tation-only gala on March 11 at the and MacArthur Foundation FelNational Building Museum. lowships, among other awards, "We celebrate these 40 students officials said. Preeti Kanani because their contributions to the The 2014 Intel Science Talent world of science will help solve some of our Search competition drew 1,800 entrants.

iraj Puri, a 13 year old student from Fairfax County, Virginia, wants to create the only known live Social Media Heatmap scanning daily instances of social media activity related to bullying. Still in a beta-phase (http://www.bullyvention.com/bullying-heatmap/), Puri is looking to partner with lead data scientists Dr. Xiaojin Jerry Zhu of the University of Wisconsin and Kalev Leetaru, a fellow and adjunct faculty at Georgetown University. He has also reached out to Twitter and Facebook to allow them access to their data. We know we can do this, its just a matter of gaining access to the data, which would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars without help from Twitter and Facebook, says Puri. Every state that I have researched is making great strides with laws and rules regarding bullying and reporting. Using the Heatmap Im taking this to the next step to provide a Bullying Index for entire communities so they see where bullying is an issue. Our goal is not only to predict the likelihood of the next bullying occurrence but see where its happening geographically,

which begs the question Why it is more of an epidemic in some areas of the country over others? New homeowners look into at the quality of schools, crime, jobs etc. when they are looking to move into a new area, parents should have an indicator as to how bullying is in each county, city and school district across the United States before they move into a new area. This will put more focus on quality of life and get lawmakers to address this very important issue, says Puri. With every post and story that appears in the headlines, I want to compile where bullying is a problem whether they are on Twitter or Facebook and identify possible geographic pockets where bullying problems exist around the United States, says Puri. Through the heatmap and recent contact with Washington DC lawmakers, Puri is in the process or reaching out to state attorney generals across the country to learn more about what they feel they need to address online bullying. To learn more, sign up and volunteer your knowledge or data analyzing capability through Heatmapping visit www.bullyvention.com/.

Bollywood stars to descend in Tampa for IIFA weekend

TV Asias new series Shades of Shakti to focus on South Asian women

his March, TV Asia presents its new TV series Shades of Shakti - A Celebration of South Asian women produced and hosted by Nisha Mathur. The series features compelling stories, life experiences and extraordinary achievements of South Asian Women in the United States who have harnessed the principles of strength and resilience and taken control of their personal and professional destinies - often in the face of obstacles. The series will focus on social issues, inspire and empower South Asian women and the future generation. Some of the women featured so far: Ekata Doshi, a young professional who has Leukemia (South Asians are dramatically underrepresented in bone marrow registries). This is a call to action for our community. Ann Mukherjee, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Frito lay of

Anil Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra along with Wizcraft and Tampa Bay delegates at the kickoff press conference in NY

PepsiCo. A victim of domestic violence, she tells her story to help other women. Chanda Zaveri who ran away from her home in Calcutta to escape an arranged marriage because she wanted to continue her education. She is now a multi millionaire---The importance of education and pursuing your dreams. Shades of Shakti celebrates women and rejoices in the success of the woman today in their different shades - at home moms, working professionals, warriors, caregivers in many different facets doing extraordinary things everyday and make it look ordinary.

he 15th edition of the International Indian Film Awards (IIFA) Weekend will make its American debut in Tampa Bay, Florida from the 24th 26th of April. IIFA management along with Bollywood superstars Anil Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra who are currently on a press tour in the United States visited Hollywood, Los Angeles, Tampa Bay and finally New York to promote the event. The event will include film briefings, film workshop, the FICCI-IIFA Global Business Forum, IIFA Rocks, IIFA Magic of the Movies & Technical Awards and the TATA Motors IIFA Awards. Headlining the awards will be Shahrukh Khan while the event will be hosted by Shahid Kapoor and Farhan Akthar. Having played a large hand in bringing

the IIFA ceremony to Tampa Bay; cardiologist, philanthropist and community leader, Dr. Kiran Patel said, I am glad to lend my support in whatever way possible to IIFA and the Indian film fraternity at large. With the goodwill of our community we look forward to the grandest Indian cinema spectacle that the US has ever seen. Santiago Corrada, President and Chief Executive Officer - Visit Tampa Bay said, Tampa Bay is thrilled to be welcoming the prestigious IIFA Celebration to Tampa. The energy and enthusiasm this celebration brings with it is contagious, and I can tell you, Tampa Bay is equally as excited to serve as great hosts to the biggest and best International Indian Film Academy awards in history.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

NATIONAL COMMUNITY

January 25-31, 2014

Techpreneur Chet Kanojia takes on TV bigwigs ABC, NBC, CBS

Washington, DC: An Indian-American entrepreneur has developed a tiny antenna which grabs over-the-air television signals and streams them to consumers via Internet, an invention that has pitted him against the powerful US TV industry. Chet Kanojia, whose company Aereo is emerging as a threat to broadcast networks like ABC, NBC and CBS, is now fighting a legal battle with them in the US Supreme Court. Aereo allows subscribers to watch or record broadcast television through the Internet on any device, no wires or cable boxes required. It does this by assigning each consumer a remote antenna and a DVR. The TV industry titans are intent on maintaining a system that provides billions in revenue annually. The networks have been fighting Aereo in court almost since its inception, claiming the service was stealing their content. The Supreme Court will hear the case this month, a report in the New York Times said. "The (court) decision will have far-reaching implications for a television industry already in upheaval, facing challenges from online streaming, Internet-enabled TVs, adskipping devices and, now, the tiny antennas that Aereo uses to capture broadcast signals," the report said. Kanojia says he is optimistic of a Supreme Court ruling in his favor. "I can't imagine they won't be on the side of innovation," he says, "cloud-based innovation, in particular, because it is so consumer-friendly." Brought up in Bhopal, Kanojia was a self-

SanDisk's Sanjay Mehrotra named CEO of the Year

Washington, DC: Sanjay Mehrotra, the Indian-American Chief Executive Officer of SanDisk, leading maker of flash memory devices, has been named the 2013 CEO of the Year by the Entrepreneurs' Foundation of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation (SVCF). "The 2013 Powered by EF CEO of the Year was given to Mehrotra as "a chief executive officer who demonstrates superior commitment to their corporate citizenship program" according to the organization's website. "Mehrotra has always demonstrated a strong commitment to SanDisk's corporate philanthropy programs," the citation said. "In addition to his unwavering support as the executive champion for the program, Sanjay rallied his fellow CEOs to participate in Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Corporate Cup Challenge, raising an additional $620,000 in corporate support and increasing corporate participation by 30 percent," it said. "On a corporate level, in the past year, Sanjay co-founded US2020 and committed 20 percent of the US SanDisk workforce to participate in the national STEM engagement program." "With his leadership, SanDisk launched its 25th Anniversary Celebration through Service, a year-long volunteerism campaign; in which Sanjay set the goal of 100 percent employee participation and over $1.65 million raised in volunteer and cash matching funds.

Sanjay Mehrotra

Chet Kanojia

described "back bencher" in his youth, who spent too much time smoking and drinking and too little time studying in his hometown. After earning an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering in India, he came to the US and earned a master's in computer systems engineering from Northeastern University. He sold his first company, Navic Systems, which made software that helped cable companies interact with their customers, to Microsoft in 2008 for a reported $ 250 million. He simple ambition is to improve the world through technology, he says. Kanojia says he is not driven by financial gains in his fight against the TV big-wigs. "This is the first battleground for the next 50 years of how copyright is going to extend or apply to the Internet and the cloud," the NYT report quoted him as saying.

"Lastly, Sanjay supported the creation of the SanDisk Scholars Fund, which will support underrepresented populations pursuing a STEMrelated education." Accepting the honor at an event in East Palo Alto, California, Mehrotra said: "Getting involved in our local communities through charitable contributions and employee volunteerism is a cornerstone of SanDisk's culture. I am so encouraged by the level of employee volunteerism and philanthropic support, especially this year, during SanDisk's 25th Anniversary; and I look forward to increasing SanDisk's philanthropic support in the coming years."

Obama nominates Shamina Singh to key post

Washington, DC: President Barack Obama has nominated Indian-American businesswoman Shamina Singh to the board of directors of a federal agency charged with strengthening communities and fostering civic engagement through service and volunteering. Singh's appointment to the board of directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service which engages more than five million Americans in service through its core programs - Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and the Social Innovation Fund - was announced Thursday. "I am honored that these talented individuals have decided to join this administration and serve our country. I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come," Obama said announcing Singh's appointment with several other key posts. A founding board member for Indian American Leadership Incubator (IALI), Singh is currently executive director of the MasterCard Center for Inclusive Growth, a position she has held since December 2013. Singh is also the global director of

Shamina Singh

Government Social Programs, MasterCard's Public Private Partnerships group, a position she has held since February 2013. From 2011 to 2013, she was senior advisor to MSLGROUP.

January 25-31, 2014

NATIONAL COMMUNITY

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

American literature massively overrated: Jhumpa Lahiri

Jaipur: Indian American author Jhumpa Lahiri believes that American literature is massively overrated and that current reading habits are transformed by the mainstream. "Our reading habits are transformed by the mainstream and to be frank, I find American literature massively overrated," the 46-yearold author said at the Jaipur Literature Festival on Saturday. Lahiri was in conversation with American author Jonathan Frazen, British writer Jim Crace and Chinese author Xiaolu Guo who has also written books in English during the session "The Global Novel." "It is shameful that there is lack of translation in the American market. I know I am making a judgment, but I guess that is what it is. Living out of the US gives you a completely different perspective," said the author. Panelists during Saturday's session were unanimous that the English language served as a common bridge to link different cultures and reach out to more people. The London-born daughter of immigrants from West Bengal who is famed for her novels and short stories about immigrant experiences relocated to Italy two years ago. She said she felt compelled to compare the literary scenario in America and in Italy. "I was very surprised to find the number of translated books in Italy. Seven of their best books of the year were translations of works from different countries," she said. The author said she was current-

Local cooks hold the torch of Indian cuisine: Vikas Khanna

Vikas Khanna

Jhumpa Lahiri speaking at Jaipur Literature Festival

ly reading in Italian to overcome her superficial knowledge of literature in that language. "I have lived in America and was exposed to Anglophone literature like many of you. But it was freeing to see such kind of recognition given to other works in other countries," Lahiri said.

"Our eateries should be a tribute to food, not people. We should stop wondering whether foreigners will like it or not. We should believe in the capacity of our cuisine.
New Delhi: Having traversed multiple Indian coastal spots in three months to collect 'desi' recipes, ingredients and distinct tastes to add his own twist for a TV show, New York-based Michelin star chef Vikas Khanna has discovered that the local chefs are the pioneers. Impressed with the craft, finesse and creativity of local cooks in the nooks and corners of the country, Khanna says that while globally, popular chefs like him can help in keeping Indian dishes alive in the world, it is indeed everyday chefs who hold the "torch of our cuisine." In the capital to promote FOX Traveler's culinary-cum-travel "Twist Of Taste 3", which he hosts Khanna recounted his experiences. "In Ratnagiri, I met a lady who makes a cucumber cake, and it is one of the most delicious cakes I have had and she told me it is as easy to make as a pound cake. With this show, we actually pay tribute to these real heroes who hold the torch of our cuisine. Our contribution as star chefs is to keep these dishes, flavors and tastes alive." That's just what Vikas and other Indian Michelin star chefs like Atul Kochhar, Vineet Bhatia, Sriram Aylur, Karunesh Khanna, Vivek Singh and Alfred Prasad are doing globally. Vikas' own New York restaurant Junoon serves a modern interpretation of Indian cuisine. He is convinced that "patronization to the cuisine" stands taller than "patronization to people" in the food business. "Our eateries should be a tribute to food, not people. We should stop wondering if 'goron ko pasand aayega ya nahin (whether foreigners will like it or not)'. We should believe in the capacity of our cuisine.

Indian-American Muslims to campaign, raise funds for Kejriwal led AAP

Washington, DC: Association of Indian Muslims of America, a renowned NGO based in Washington, on Monday appealed all Muslims to support and vote for the Aam Aadmi Party and said the association members will visit India during election time to campaign for the party which has recently formed the government in Delhi after historic victory. "We, a non-profit NGO of Indian Muslims who live in US, enthusiastically share the views of AAP volunteers, and ask India's Muslim citizens and voters to support AAP with funds, volunteers and votes, as AAP prepares to participate in the upcoming parliamentary election", Kaleem Kawaja, Executive Director, Association of Indian Muslims of America, said in a statement sent to ummid.com. He also said that several of our members in US who hold Indian passport are planning to visit India at election time to campaign for AAP and to raise funds for them in India. "Even before the remarkable victory of the AAP party in the recent Delhi state election, a significant number of middleclass and educated Muslims in Delhi had enthusiastically responded to the call of this nascent party, to help it cleanse the political system and governance", he added. "The reason that most of the Muslims being in the underprivileged segment of society, they suffer far more than others, when corruption and influence-peddling become rampant, as has happened in the last eight years of Congress party rule at the Center", he said. Recently Jamat Islami Hind, a major nationwide social uplift NGO of Muslims in India, that advocates a secular polity and governance based on justice and fairplay, has endorsed AAP and has asked Muslims to vote for it in the coming parliamentary election.

IN BRIEF

Obamas ex-aide Anish Goel joins think tank

Meera Chandrasekhar wins US Great Teaching award

India-born Meera Chanan impressive academic record drasekhar, professor of physics with a stellar reputation for the and astronomy and Curator's extraordinary impact she has had Teaching Professor of Physics at on undergraduate and graduate the University of Missouri, has students," she said. won Baylor University's 2014 Chandrasekhar earned her BSc Robert Foster Cherry Award for degree in physics and mathematGreat Teaching. ics from MGM College, Mysore Chandrasekhar will receive the University in 1968, Masters de$250,000 award and an additiongree in physics from the Indian al $25,000 for the physics deInstitute of Technology in Madras partment at the University of Meera Chandrasekhar in 1970 and Brown University in Missouri. She is expected to 1973. teach in residence at Baylor, a top Texas ChrisShe earned a PhD in physics from Brown tian University, during the spring 2015 semes- University in 1976. After a postdoctoral felter. "Baylor University is very pleased to hon- lowship at Max-Planck-Institut in Germany, or Dr. Chandrasekhar with Baylor's 2014 she joined the University of Missouri faculty Robert Foster Cherry Award for Great Teach- in 1978. Chandrasekhar's teaching and reing," said Elizabeth Davis, executive vice search has been recognized with many honpresident and provost at Baylor, announcing ours, including the 2006 President's Award for the award. "Dr. Chandrasekhar is an interna- Outstanding Teaching from the University of tionally known teacher/scholar who combines Missouri.

Geopolitical Affairs for Boeing nish Goel, a former key Indian-American Commercial Airplanes, where he leads geopolitical analysis, aide of President Barack Obama, has joined identifying emerging threats and opportunities and their poWashington think tank New tential impact to Boeing's comAmerica's National Security Program as a Senior South mercial aviation business. Goel brings over nine years Asia Fellow. As a Senior Fellow for experience in the US government working on South Asia South Asia, Goel will write on foreign policy. US foreign policy in South Asia, regional dynamics, and Most recently, he served for Anish Goel three years in the White their implications for US national security, the think tank House's National Security Council as Senior Director for South Asia, announced. "Anish is a respected expert on South Asia making him the senior-most advisor on and has made important contributions to South Asia to President Obama. Prior to joining the White House, Goel scholarship on the region," said Peter Bergen, Director of New America's Nation- served in the State Department as the chief al Security Program. "We are delighted to science and technology officer for South have him with us." Asia, leading departmental efforts on the Goel currently serves as the Director of landmark US-India civil nuclear deal.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

NATIONAL COMMUNITY

January 25-31, 2014

WESTCHESTER COUNTY EXECUTIVE ROBERT ASTORINO

Weighing a run against Cuomo for state Governor

By Robert Golomb our more years-- hundreds of cheering supporters of Westchester County Executive Republican Robert Astorino chanted at his White Plains campaign headquarters as the polls closed election night this past November. By 10:30, less than two hours later, Astorinos challenger, New Rochelle Mayor Democrat Noam Bramson, conceded defeat, and Astorinos still growing crowd of enthusiastic supporters realized that the 46 year old incumbents reelection to his second four year term had been secured (by what the final count the following day proved to be a 56% to 44% landslide). But within days after the election, a significant number of both Democrat and Republican Party insiders and a host of NYS political journalists began to speculate that the next campaign for Astorino might occur not in 4 more years -in a race for a third term for county executive-- but rather take place nextyear - in a race against one term incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo for Governor of New York State.

Republican nomination for Governor, will immediately jump on the Astorino bandwagon if and once the Westchester County Executive declares his candidacy, and, as is widely expected, Donald Trump announces he has made the decision not to run. These same sources informed me that while most Republicans view an Astorino bid as an uphill battle, they see signs that could portend to Astorino pulling off a major upset, if he does, as

sources tell me, is based upon their hope that Astorino, who has little name recognition in the state outside of Westchester County, will be able to take advantage of the Governors sagging popularity - once he becomes the official Republican nominee and consequently becomes better known throughout the state. Yet, despite all the conjecture that surrounds his possible candidacy, Astorino, the married father of three

tions that will weigh into his final decision. My family comes first in every decision I make. I can say that Sheila {his wife} is supportive of the idea. And she and I have spoken with {New Jersey] Governor Christie and his wife, who have young children.... The advice they gave was encouraging. But when young children are involved, decisions are never easy. But, unlike family decisions, As-

with that of the Governors, he said. Beginning the day I was sworn into office four years ago, my administrations primary focus has been to achieve what we call the 3 Ps, which are Protect taxpayers, which we have done by cutting the tax levy 2 percent over the last four years, more than any other county in the entire state . Preserve essential services. By cutting wasteful spending we have been able to maintain our safety net for our most needy residents. And Promote economic growth. by creating a stabilized tax climate for business. {there has been} the creation of 30,000 new private sector jobs and an unemployment rate that has dropped to 5.5%. I would contrast that record of our accomplishments in Westchester County with the Governors record of failure in the state. The unemployment rate {in NYS} hovers around 8 percent, higher than even the dismal national unemployment rate. New Yorkers pay the highest taxes in the entire nation. And not coincidentally, the NYS business climate has been rated as the worst in America. In addition to contrasting their records, Astorino whose resume also includes 3 four year terms as city councilman in the town of Mount Pleasant (1991- 2003) and one term as a lawmaker on Westchester County Board of Legislators (2003- 2005) added that he will try to make the case to the electorate that the policies he would enact if elected Governor would be better for the state than those of the incumbent. Beyond elaborating upon how his tax policies, which he claimed would help the middle class, spur business growth and add thousands of new jobs, differs from that of the Governors, Astorino explained how his position on fracking for natural gas is the exact opposite of Cuomos. The Governor has been coming up with excuse after excuse as to why he has been preventing natural gas exploration . More than 30 states are currently hydro-fracking for natural gas and the results have been the creation of thousands of energy sector jobs, cheaper energy costs with absolutely no damage to the environment. Even President Obama has endorsed hydro-fracking. Starting hydro-fracking in gas abundant upstate NYS, which would lower energy costs and create thousands of jobs, is one of the first things I would do. He will first have to make the decision to run. Robert Golomb (MrBob347 @aol.com) is a nationally published columnist.

That speculation has continued to grow since November, even as Democrats and Republicans offer opposite takes on what as of this writing still remains a hypothetical Astorino vs. Cuomo contest would look like. The general talking points offered to the media by NYS Democrat Party officials is that Astorino, despite his strong showing this past November, would in such a contest go down to defeat in an embarrassing blow out. Pointing to a poll taken in mid November by the highly respected Siena Research Institute which reported that Cuomo enjoyed a 39 point lead in a prospective race against Astorino and contending that the socially conservative Astorinos pro-life position would alienate the moderate Democrats and independent voters he would need to win in overwhelming numbers to have even a remote possibility of winning in a state in which Democrats outnumber Republicans in registration by 16 points, many of these Democrat partisans argue that Astorino would have virtually no chance of making Cuomo a one term governor. Republicans view such a race differently, as would be expected. Republican State Chairperson Ed Cox has expressed enthusiasm about an Astorino candidacy. And reliable sources within the Republican Party have told me that many state Republican office holders and party officials, while not wanting to offend Donald Trump who has said he might be interested in seeking the

Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino attended the groundbreaking ceremony in White Plains for the Hindu Temple of Tri-States. According to the trustees of the upcoming temple, Westchester County is home to 5,000 Hindu families.

most expect him to do, make the decision to enter the race. One sign, Ive been told, centers around his November victory over Bransom. In beating a Democrat by 12 points in a county in which Democrats outnumber Republicans in registration by 2-1, Astorino demonstrated his ability to run well with Democrat moderates and Independents - which puts into question Democrat officials predictions earlier noted that social conservative Astorino would be unable to win the support of these two crucial voting groups in a race against the Governor. Another sign is Governor Cuomos falling job approval rating. While Cuomo still holds that two and a half to one lead over Astorino, his job approval ratings have been on the decline this past year. A recent Sienna College poll found that 50% of NYS voters rated the Governors job performance as fair or poor, while only 49% gave him the mark of excellent or good - a precipitous drop from the 74% job approval he enjoyed only a year ago. The guarded optimism coming from prominent Republicans, my

young children, has over the past two months consistently told the media that he will not make his final decision about entering the race until sometime in February. Astorino has also consistently stated to the media that the two factors that will affect that final decision involve how he believes entering the race would affect his family, and whether he could raise the necessary funds to run against Cuomo, who has been reported to already have over 25 million dollars sitting in his reelection campaign war chest. Thus when I interviewed Astorino in his office this past Friday I began by asking him the following two part question - How are you currently going about determining whether running for governor would be the right thing to do for your family? And how are you going about the process of calculating whether you will be able to raise sufficient funds to run a viable campaign? Appearing very much at ease as he sat comfortably on a black hardback chair, Astorino described the personal and political considera-

torino views the issue of campaign financing to be cut and dried. 12 million dollars is the minimum amount required to run a strong campaign. I have been talking with people throughout the state, and I am beginning to believe that through the contributions of traditional Republican contributors... and most importantly, through the small contributions of many ordinary citizens - Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike that 12 million dollar mark can be reached. Astorino, who has had a 15 year on and off career in radio, including holding the positions of show host, executive producer and senior producer, and is seen as being extremely media savvy, told me that in a race against Cuomo he would try to utilize the communication skills he believes he has developed during his career in radio to articulate to voters the contrast between the Governors and his own records in their respective chief executive positions. I believe I would have the ability as a candidate {for governor} to be able to differentiate my record

10

January 25-31, 2014

US AFFAIRS

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

One year on, GOPs planned reboot floundering

Washington: The Republican Partys image has not changed since GOP Chairman Reince Priebus gave a clarion call for broadening the partys appeal to woo racial minorities, women and gay voters who backed Democrats decisively in 2012. The issue that remains an open book for the Republicans is: What is the character of the party? said Ari Fleischer, a top aide to President George W. Bush, who helped author the report of the Growth and Opportunity Project. Are we a more inclusive and welcoming party yet? As the Republican National Committee opened its winter meetings here Wednesday, the party was counting on the political geography and expected lower turnout of the 2014 midterm elections to give them control of the Senate, AP reported. If that happens, Fleischer said, it would be a false narcotic for the larger problems facing a party that has lost the national popular vote in five of the last six presidential elections. Those will take years to fix. In the past year, Priebus has launched new efforts to reach out to racial and ethnic minorities, hired about 170 state-level staff with more planned and invested in technology to better track potential voters, a tactic Republicans pioneered and Democrats have perfected over the past eight years. He also renewed efforts to win over Hispanics nationally with voter outreach staffers. But these structural changes can end the GOPs White House losing streak only if its messengers fulfill the reports larger goal: Change course, modernize the party and learn once again how to appeal to more people. Since losing the 2012 presidential election, Republicans have continued to slip in public approval. According to a recent Gallup poll, 32 percent have a favorable opinion of the GOP now, compared with 43 percent immediately after President Barack Obamas re-election. Democrats were viewed favorably by 42 percent, also down from a year ago. The committee has deployed 17 full-time operatives to New York, Florida, California, New Jersey, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Texas, Georgia and Colorado with the primary mission of bringing more Hispanics into the GOP fold. More are planned in states including Nevada, North Carolina, Arizona, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio and Illinois. Nationally, Obama carried 71 percent of the Hispanic vote, according to exit polls conducted for AP and TV networks. In New York, it was 89 percent. In Florida, 60 percent. This is a long-term effort, said Izzy Santa, director of Hispanic communications for the RNC. Were making sure that were talking to them, that were listening to them and that we understand their concerns. Yet, the Priebus reports only policy recommendation an explicit call for comprehensive immigration reform has been stalled by infighting in the GOP-controlled House. While Speaker John Boehner has promised to begin drafting key principles for such legislation, conservatives have vowed to block it. It would be a colossal mistake for us to take up anything that just ends up changing the subject from the 2010 health care law now in effect, said Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa. The RNC has replicated its Hispanic outreach to court African Americans, Asian Americans and other demographic groups, hiring dozens of staff in Washington and in key states. Republicans also are deploying women as candidate organizers around the country, hoping to win back female voters who were turned off in 2012 when GOP Senate candidates in Missouri and Indiana crippled their campaigns by making contentious comments to explain their opposition to abortion in cases of rape. Were going to continue to be the conservative party, said RNC member Henry Barbour of Mississippi, who helped write the Priebus report. But you can do that in a way thats not divisive.

Amid bridge closing scandal, Christie's approval rating drops

Trenton, NJ: Support for New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, which soared over his handling of Superstorm Sandy, has fallen almost 20 points since his landslide re-election in November as he faces probes into the conduct of his top aides. The brash and charismatic Christie is widely seen as a top Republican contender for the White House in 2016, and the brewing scandals in his home state are the biggest political challenge he has faced yet. Christie's approval rating among New Jersey voters, at 65 percent just before he was re-elected last year, dipped to 46 percent favorable to 43 percent unfavorable, according to the Rutgers-Eagleton Poll. In the heavily Democratic state, support for Christie remains high among Republicans and independents, while support fell 26 points among Democrats. The poll was conducted after Christie removed two top aides for their role in orchestrating huge traffic jams near the busy George Washington Bridge, apparently to settle a political score. The surveying

Bernice King, second from right, talks with pastor Raphael Warnock, during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday commemorative service at Ebenezer Baptist Church Jan. 20 in Atlanta. Bernice is the daughter of the civil rights leader. Christine King Farris, right, is the only living sibling of the late Dr. King. Also pictured is Atlanta mayor Kasim Reed.

NJ Gov Chris Christie taking the oath of office for the second time Tuesday.

was partly complete when new allegations were brought last week by the Democratic Mayor of Hoboken that Christie withheld storm recovery funds for political reasons.

Former Virginia gov, wife indicted for graft

Richmond, VA: Former Virginia governor Bob McDonnell said Tuesday he did "nothing illegal" and vowed to fight the federal government's "false allegations" that he and his wife improperly accepted gifts and loans from a political donor. McDonnell addressed reporters in Richmond hours after he and his wife, Maureen, were indicted on 14 counts. The indictment alleges they accepted more than $135,000 in expensive clothing, trips, loans and other items from Jonnie Williams Sr., former CEO of Star Scientific, in exchange for the governor's assistance in helping the maker of dietary supplements. "I believe the facts and the law are clearly on our side," McDonnell said. "We will face these false allegations with strength and firm resolve." The Republican, once touted as a potential presidential contender and running mate for Mitt Romney, has been out of office for only a few days. Virginia voters elected Democrat Terry McAuliffe to succeed McDonnell, who could not run for a second term. McAuliffe was sworn in Jan. 11. The indictment charges McDonnell and his wife with a wide array of official corruption. Among the charges: wire fraud, conspiracy and obtaining property under color of their official duties.Maureen McDonnell was charged with obstructing the government's investigation. The former governor was also charged with making a false statement to a financial institution.

Treasury Secretary urges for raising debt limit

Washington: US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew said Wednesday that the government would run out of borrowing authority by late February if the Congress did not act to raise the debt limit before that time. "When I previously wrote to you in December, I estimated that Treasury would exhaust extraordinary measures in late February or early March. Based on our best and most recent information, we believe that Treasury is more likely to exhaust those measures in late February," Xinhua quoted Lew in a letter to the Congressional leaders including House Speaker John Boehner and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. "While this forecast is subject to inherent variability, we do not foresee any reasonable scenario in which the extraordinary measures would last for an extended period of time," he added. "I respectfully urge Congress to provide certainty and stability to the economy and financial markets by acting to raise the debt limit before Feb 7, 2014, and certainly before late February," said Lew. The US Congress passed a twoyear budget deal in December to avert the risk of a government shutdown. But the legislation did not touch upon the issue of debt limit. Lew has explained that the length of time that the extraordinary measures can extend the country's borrowing authority is "significantly" shorter than in the past, partly because the government has to pay out large amounts of tax refunds in February.

80 mn Americans hit by season's heaviest snowfall

Washington: Some 80 million people in northeast America were Wednesday digging their way out of a thick blanket of snow deposited by the heaviest snowfall of the season, with more than a foot falling in some places. Government offices in Washington were opening two hours late, but schools in most parts were closed, roads shut down and thousands of flights grounded in the aftermath of winter Storm Janus, as it is called.The huge storm that led to declaration of emergency in Delaware, New Jersey and New York stretched from Kentucky to New England but hit hardest along heavily populated areas between Philadelphia and Boston.Snow began falling at mid-morning Tuesday in Philadelphia and dumped as much as 14 inches by Wednesday morning, with New York seeing almost as much. Manalapan, New Jersey, had the highest snowfall reading, with nearly 16 inches, according to CBS. At New York's LaGuardia airport, weary travelers spent a restless and sleep-deprived night on airport chairs and cold floors, according to CNN. Flight cancellations put hotel rooms in short supply.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

INDIA

January 25-31, 2014

11

India has decided who will win LS polls: Modi

New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi said the country has already decided who is going to win the next general elections and India will emerge as Congress-free nation. The recent assembly polls in five states just gave a trailer of what will happen in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Modi told an election rally in Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh. He said the Congress remembers the poor only when elections are near. For Congress, he added, dalits and tribals had always been a vote bank and it was always interested in keeping them poor. It is the mindset of the Congress The Gujarat strongman said the Congress has only been paying a lip service to the tribals and scheduled caste communities. That is why, out of the 34 assembly seats in Rajasthan with majority SC and ST populations, Congress did not win a single seat, he said. Referring to the massive crowd at the rally, Modi said this rally indicates that winds of change are blowing in UP. Modis attack on the Congress over the treatment of the poor has probably been prompted by Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhis demand for an inclusive growth. Rahul has been critical of Gujarat model of growth which he says benefits only the rich. In an attack on Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav, Modi said, The father-son duo has been chasing me wherever I go in UP. Netaji (as Mulayam is referred to by his party cadres) has said I dont have the capacity to transform Uttar Pradesh into a Gujarat like success storyNetaji, do you know what it takes to make a Gujarat? It means 24X7 electricityit means 10% growth in agriculture for 10 years and not getting in your 3-4% growth, Modi said. I will be happy if UP becomes Gujarat, but you cannot accomplish that, he added.

The BJP's PM candidate accused Mulayam Singh Yadav and Akhilesh Yadav of destroying the state

leadership, which cant tolerate a person like me who used to hawk

tea. They have been making fun of the poor, he said.

BJP ahead in four states: LS poll survey

New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to garner the maximum vote share in the Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh if the Lok Sabha elections are held now, according to the CNN-IBN election tracker conducted by CSDS. In Gujarat, BJP is projected to secure a 53 percent vote share, the Congress 32 percent and the Aam Aadmi Party seven percent. In Maharashtra, the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance is likely to grab 44 percent vote share while the saffron party's vote share in Madhya Pradesh is likely to be 51 percent. The Congress in MP may have to make do with 29 percent votes. In Chhattisgarh, 50 percent vote share is likely to go to the BJP, the poll prediction said and added the Congress may have to be content with 34 percent. While 71 percent respondents said they are satisfied with the performance of the Gujarat government, 70 percent said they are happy with Narendra Modi as the Gujarat chief minister. Modi led the approval ratings as preferred prime minister with 46 percent in Gujarat backing him for the top job. Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi comes a distant second with only 16 percent in Gujarat rooting for him.

Rahul visiting Amethi, AAP calls it 'picnic'

Lucknow: Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi met party workers in his parliamentary constituency Amethi of Uttar Pradesh. However, AAP leader Kumar Vishwas termed the trip a "picnic". On day one of his two-day tour, the Gandhi scion received feedback on "local problems and other political issues", a close aide said. This is Rahul's first visit to Amethi after being appointed the campaign chief of his party for the Lok Sabha (LS) polls. Arriving at the Fursatganj airstrip of Rae Bareli in a private plane, Rahul, accompanied by his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, drove straight to a meeting of party supportMahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, the National Rural Health Mission and the "non-cooperation" of the district administration and the state government towards development of the constituency. The visit assumes significance owing to the challenge thrown at Gandhi by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas, who has said he would contest against the Congress leader from Amethi in the forthcoming general elections. The poet-turned-politician has been camping in the constituency for the past 10 days and mingling with the public, especially in the countryside.

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi met party workers in his parliamentary constituency Amethi

ers and discussed the progress of many centrally aided welfare schemes in the family pocket-borough. District leaders said the party vice president was miffed at the slow progress of schemes like the

AAP minister in trouble, women's groups demand action

New Delhi: A Ugandan woman who along with four other women from Africa was allegedly rounded up by Delhi Law Minister Somnath Bharti and AAP cadres during a midnight raid last week has identified him after seeing video footage from news channels and newspaper clippings, police said. Women's groups have demanded action against Bharti for his "horrific act of harassment and racial profiling". A woman sub-inspector has been appointed to investigate the case. Police said five women - two from Uganda and three from Nigeria - who were allegedly victimized by Bharti and supporters of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on the night of Jan 16 recorded their statements before a metropolitan magistrate. "One of them has identified four people, including Bharti, when police showed her the video footage from news channels and newspaper clippings," a police officer said. Police said they will frame charges against Bharti and the to unearth an alleged "drugs and prostitution" racket. "It is with extreme dismay that we write to you regarding the horrific act of harassment and racial profiling of Ugandan women by a group led by Somnath Bharti, comprising other members of the Aam Aadmi Party," the letter said. "Such a targeting goes against the sense of security and human rights of all women in general, and of single and working women in particular." "This was also a clear case of racial profiling against foreign citizens. We are, therefore, shocked to see you and other leaders of your party defend the actions of Somnath Bharti," it added.

Delhi Law Minister Somnath Bharti is in the soup

Congress wants action against AAP minister

New Delhi: The Congress demanded "strict action" against Delhi Law Minister Somnath Bharti for his campaign against a "sex-and-drug ring" that four Ugandan women say caused them misery. Delhi Congress unit chief Arvinder Singh Lovely made the demand when he led a party delegation to Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung. Lovely told the media that Jung had assured them that a fair probe would be conducted into the issue. "The people of Delhi are wondering whether the law is the same for the common man as well as a minister," he said. "We demand appropriate police action against the law minister, even if it means his arrest," said Lovely. "He should be treated like a common man, and no special treatment should be meted out to him."

investigation report will be submitted before a court. Earlier, police said a woman officer will investigate the assault on the foreign women living in south Delhi's Malviya Nagar area. "A woman sub-inspector would investigate the alleged assault on four Ugandan women by Bharti and Aam Aadmi Party supporters," a police officer said. After a protest by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet

colleagues demanding suspension of some police officers for their alleged inaction in busting a "prostitution and drug racket", the station house officer (SHO) of Malviya Nagar police station was sent on leave. The probe has been transferred to police in Mehrauli, an officer said. Women rights organizations here have written an open letter to Kejriwal, urging him to take action against Bharti for the midnight raid

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January 25-31, 2014

INDIA

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Sunanda Pushkar died of poisoning: report

Sub-Divisional Magistrate Alok Sharma has asked police to find out the cause of poisoning and also to specifically probe the case as that of murder or suicide. "Sunanda's post-mortem report reveals that she died due to poison. But it will be too early to say before her viscera report if she had consumed poison or the drug consumed by her acted as poison," Sharma said The magistrate, who got the postmortem examination report from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), declined to reveal its contents, saying the report was sealed. "I have ordered a probe into the death of Sunanda Pushkar as per the findings of her post-mortem report," he said. Police sources said the autopsy report submitted to the sub-divisional magistrate on Monday said Pushkar died due to drug overdose. The autopsy also found over a dozen injury marks in the upper extremity of her upper body - on one arm, hand, chin, and neck regions - and interpreted these as "scuffle marks", sources said. The post-mortem examination was conducted by a three-member team of doctors headed by Sudhir K. Gupta. Sunanda Pushkar was found dead in her room at a hotel in New Delhi. Police investigators found two strips of Alprax drug from her hotel room. "The huge quantity of consumption of such drug may affect functioning of brain and lead to a comatose situation," said a police officer. Pushkar's death followed days of a spat on social networking sites involving her and a Pakistani woman journalist Mehr Tarar who Pushkar said was pursuing her husband, union minister Shashi Tharoor. The journalist has denied the charge. At one time, Pushkar said she would divorce the minister. Later, she and Tharoor issued a statement saying they were happily married.

Tharoor should distance himself from his post: NCP

New Delhi: The NCP said union minister Shashi Tharoor should "disassociate" himself from his post till the probe into the death of his wife, Sunanda Pushkar, was over. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), which supports the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government at the centre, clarified it was not asking Tharoor to resign. "The matter (Pushkar's death) is serious and investigations are on, and Tharoor has rightly pledged he will cooperate with the investigating agencies. We think Tharoor will himself disassociate from his ministerial responsibility till the investigation is over," party spokesperson D.P. Tripathi said.Meanwhile, the Congress has ruled out any possibility of Tharoor resigning from the government arguing there was no charge against him.

Sunanda Pushkar, wife of union minister Shashi Tharoor, was found dead in her room at a hotel in New Delhi

New Delhi: Sunanda Pushkar, wife of union minister Shashi Tharoor, died of poisoning, a report by the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) probing her death said.

Tharoor not capable of harming my mother: son

Congress could face heavy loss in Andhra, says survey

New Delhi: The Congress has suffered an erosion in its vote share in Andhra Pradesh and could register a heavy loss in the state if the Lok Sabha elections were held this month, said a survey. The study also said the party's tally may dip in Tamil Nadu but improve in Karnataka and Kerala. The CNN-IBN-CSDS election tracker for Andhra Pradesh projected 5-9 seats for the party in January 2014. The Congress has 31 MPs in the state. The survey said the YSR Congress was slated to win 11-19 seats, the Telugu Desam Party between nine and 15 and the Telangana Rashtra Samiti 4-8 seats. Others are slated to win up to four seats. It said there was an eight percent drop in the Congress vote share across Andhra Pradesh, with 24 percent voters projected to vote for it. In Kerala, the election tracker projected 12-18 seats for the ruling United Democratic Front led by the Congress if elections were held in January 2014. The opposition Left Democratic Front was slated to get 2-8 seats. The Congress has 13 MPs in Kerala and two seats are held by supporting parties. In Tamil Nadu, the survey projected 15-23 seats for the ruling AIADMK while the opposition DMK was predicted to win 7-13 seats. Other parties were slated to get 4-10 seats. The Congress was slated to get 1-5 seats in the state where it has eight MPs, it said.

Shashi Tharoor and Sundnda Pushkar's son Shiv Menon at Lodhi Road crematorium in Delhi.

New Delhi: Shiv Menon, son of late Sunanda Pushkar, said that his mother was too strong to commit suicide and he does not believe that union minister Shashi Tharoor was capable of physically harming his mother. "Anyone who knew my mother would simply know that she was too strong to commit suicide. I also do not believe that Shashi (Tharoor) was capable of physically harming her, let alone speculation that he could have taken her life," Shiv Menon said in a statement. Shiv Menon said the media coverage has forced him to speak out for his mother and issue the statement. "They (Shasi Tharoor and Sunanda Pushkar) were very much in love, despite occasional differences, which they overcame. It was an unfortunate combination

of media stress, tensions and a wrong mix of different medication," Shiv Menon's statement said. It added that what the media reports have been implying in regard to his mother's death was not only just "untrue" but "outrageous". Shiv Menon also requested the media to let his mother's soul rest in peace. Shiv Menon is Sunanda Pushkar's son from her second marriage with Delhi-based financial consultant Sujit Menon. Sunanda Pushkar was found dead under mysterious circumstances in her room at the Leela Palace hotel here Jan 17. A report by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, who is probing her death, said Sunanda died of poisoning. The investigations are incomplete and would continue.

Bengal gang rape: 13 sent to judicial custody

Kolkata: A West Bengal court has remanded 13 people to 14 days' judicial custody in connection with the gang rape of a tribal woman in the state's Birbhum district, police said. "All the 13 accused arrested in this connection were presented before a court which has remanded them to 14 days' judicial custody," a Labhpur police station official said. The horrific incident happened Monday night in Subalpur village, some 180 km from Kolkata. The 20-year-old woman was allegedly raped by more than a dozen men following the orders of a kangaroo court which found her "guilty of having an affair with a man outside her community". "The woman was allegedly gang raped on the orders of a shalishi sabha (kangaroo court) after it found she had an affair with a man outside her community," Superintendent of Police C. Sudhakar said. The police have been conducting raids looking for others involved in and around the village which continues to be tense following the brutal incident. The woman, who is undergoing treatment at the Suri Sadar Hopsital, said she was left at the mercy of the men of her village after she was unable to pay Rs.50,000 as a fine demanded by the morol (headman) for having an affair with a man outside her community. "The morol ordered that I be enjoyed by the men of the village. Following his orders, at least 10-12 people, including (some) members of a single family, continuously raped me. I lost count of how many times I was raped," said the woman. Meanwhile, the state government has said it will not only bear the medical expenses of the victim but will also provide compensation to her. "We are sensitive to the issue and doing everything possible to not only ensure justice to her but also ensure an example is set by giving stringent punishment to the culprits. The government has provision for compensating such victims," Women and Child Welfare Minister Shashi Panja said.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

INDIA

January 25-31, 2014

13

Maharashtra slashes India clears minority status for Jains power tariff by 20 percent
Mumbai: In a major pre-election initiative, the Maharashtra government has slashed power tariff by 20 percent across all sectors. The move will provide relief to domestic, commercial, industrial and agricultural consumers, according to an announcement by the Chief Minister's Office. The 20 percent cut will be applicable for domestic consumers - around 1.30 crore in the state - using up to 300 units per month. The move drew criticism from the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party. The decision will be implemented in the entire state including north-east parts of Mumbai which get power from the Maharashtra State Electricity Board (MSEB). "A decision on the other areas of the city - like north-west and south Mumbai - which are serviced by private suppliers like Tata Power and Reliance Energy shall be taken next week," an official said. The MSEB has a total of 2.14 crore consumers in Maharashtra, of which 1.56 crore are domestic users, a MSEB spokesperson said. Of these 1.56 crore, a whopping 1.30 crore fall in the below 300units per month range, making them eligible for the 20 percent slashed tariff. Maharashtra also has 3.60 million agriculture consumers, 1.60 million commercial users, 300,000 industrial and 100,000 powerlooms. Certain other consumers like the railways are no included in the above list, the spokesperson said. The 20 percent reduction in tariff would mean a loss of around Rs.706 crore per month for MSEB. However, the government will provide subsidy of Rs.606 crore per month or Rs.7,272 crore per annum to the MSEB. The remaining Rs.100 crore per month or Rs.1,200 crore per annum will be borne by the MSEB. Since the past fortnight, Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam has launched protests demanding reduction in power tariff in Mumbai and other parts in the interest of ordinary consumers. New Delhi: A day after Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi took up the issue with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the Union Cabinet approved notification of Jains as a minority community at the national level. The Jains have thus become the sixth community to be granted such status after Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis. Jains are about 0.4% of India's population and in the 2001 census, were about 42 lakh-strong. Their population is now estimated at around 50 lakh; Mumbai accounts for the largest number of about 10% (or 4-5 lakh). Once recognized as a minority, they will get a share in Central funds earmarked for welfare schemes and government pro-

Acharya Dr Lokesh Muni and other Jain leaders with UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi

grammes as well as scholarships. They can also manage and adminis-

Jain community rejoicing: Acharya Lokesh

New Delhi: Eminent Jain-acharya and founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti Acharya Dr Lokesh Muni expressed gratitude on the decision to grant minority status to the Jain community at the national level. At a meeting with UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Acharya Lokesh said that for national unity and harmony, we must rise above personal differences. Sonia Gandhi said we should never forget our aim of unity in diversity. "We have to follow Bhagwan Mahavir's teachings of non-violence, co-existence and tolerance. The move would help the Jain community in social welfare activities," she told the delegation. On the occasion, the Jain community felicitated Sonia Gandhi.

ter their own educational institutions. A delegation of the Jain community led by Union minister Pradeep Jain had met Rahul to press for their long-standing demand for minority status. The community already enjoys minority status in some states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan but the Cabinet decision extends that status across the country. "Rahul assured the delegation that he would do his utmost to ensure fair and equitable recognition and representation for the Jain community," the release said.

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January 25-31, 2014

OP-ED

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Khobragade row:

what this episode could teach us

By Karan Thapar ow that the brouhaha surrounding laffaire Devyani Khobragade has simmered down, with all passion spent, its time to ask what lessons we need to learn from this unfortunate, if not also unsavory, episode. The first applies to all of us. When the story broke most people took Khobragades side against her maid, Sangeeta Richards. No doubt many were incensed by the manner of her arrest but did we have grounds to disbelieve the charges leveled against her by Richards? If not, wouldnt a stance of neutrality have been more advisable between the two disputants, both of whom are Indian citizens? The second lesson is for the government. This is not the first time an Indian diplomat in America has got into trouble over domestic staff. Since 2010 its happened on at least two other occasions.

Dont make the handling of a specific problem an excuse to correct the unattended wrongs of the past

The problem arises from the fact we pay well below the US minimum wage but fudge the visa documentation to suggest otherwise. No doubt weve got away with it for decades and, perhaps, there was something arbitrary in the way the Americans suddenly

picked on Khobragade. Nonetheless this was a situation inviting trouble. It has to be sorted out. Or it will happen again. The third lesson is specifically for the external affairs ministry. In an interview to the media, Nishal Biswal, the American Assistant

Secretary of State, revealed that the State Department, as early as September, had forewarned the Indian embassy in writing that there were allegations against Khobragade and action under US law could be imminent. If at that stage Khobragade had been voluntarily withdrawn the problem would have been averted. Why wasnt that done? The foreign minister told me that the government could not have known what would follow. Even if true that suggests poor judgment. His officials assert the American warning didnt mention legal action, imminent or otherwise. In which case why didnt they dispute Biswals interview? Why did they leave it unchallenged, as if it was accurate? Now, the Khobragade episode also became the occasion for equalizing the allegedly different privileges accorded to Indian and American diplomats in each others countries. No doubt this

was something that needed to be done. The timing, however, suggested an Indian over-reaction. The American press called it vindictive. The Indian press was harsher, with the Express terming it the absolute abandonment of sobriety, reason and responsibility. So, if there is a fourth lesson it applies, once again, to the external affairs ministry: get the response right as well as the timing. Dont make the handling of a specific problem an excuse to correct the unattended wrongs of the past. Finally, a lesson for the Opposition. Should Yashwant Sinha, a former foreign minister, have called for action against the same sex companions of US diplomats because, after the recent Supreme Court ruling, they violate Indian law? Not only was it preposterous, it also suggested that a layer of barbarism lurked beneath the Indian response.

AAP was voted to straighten system, not bend it

By Monish Gulati begin with a disclosure that I voted for the Aam Admi Party (AAP) after being disgusted and dejected by the present class of politicians and their politicking. My expectation from the AAP victory was just that it would, at the very least, shock Indian politics into some much needed realism and sense. A corruption-free society, I understand will take time. However, the AAP modus operandi has left me a more than a tad worried. Let's look at the AAP Janata Durbar. After its chaotic conduct, there has been talk of the inexperience of the AAP, about how other parties have been conducting such meetings much before and more efficiently than the AAP. I feel these are non-issues. What is of concern is that it comes from a party that professes to decentralise decision-making and bring about a paradigm shift in local governance. What is the chief minister doing by taking a durbar in first fortnight of his government? Why were people initially not asked to approach the local AAP legislators and party representatives, who would then send serious and urgent cases to the chief minister and deal with the balance at the district level? Why has a party that has just read the riot act to the bureaucracy and local administration not evaluated the impact of its missive by asking the people to approach the same administration afresh with their grievances, at least for the minor and not so urgent ones? Why are the departmental and administrative grievance channels being rendered defunct (as opposed to being revived) and a

A political mandate and a party's name does not make it the sole guardian of the interest of the common man

parallel and informal system managed by the AAP being put in place? Promoting this form/style of governance will create a culture that will encourage defunct non-functional redressal systems and more disturbingly, require a continuous supply of aggrieved. The head of a department or a government should address grievances which the governance system has failed or is not designed to address; and of course those of urgent nature which the system processes but will not handle with urgency required. Next, take the case of Delhi's auto drivers. Understandably, they have some grievances. Their union was first off the blocks in encashing their IOUs with the AAP (they

carried AAP posters on their autos in the run-up to the elections) and demanded designated auto stands and relief from police harassment. The AAP government is reportedly considering some corrective action, including preventing police from challaning them for certain offences. So be it, but we did not hear a word from the auto unions, the government and the AAP functionaries that the auto drivers will wear uniforms, display their licence and identification, install a GPS system, regularly get their meters inspected, charge by the meter, keep their autos roadworthy including the headlight and the indicators and, most importantly, not decline to carry any passenger. Some of these were meas-

ures that the previous government was trying to enforce after the public outcry - in which the AAP was very active - post the Nirbhaya incident over a year ago. A political mandate and a party's name does not make it the sole guardian of the interest of the common man. It was disturbing to see an AAP representative on a TV show, when intensely queried about his party's methods, retort that if you question the ways of the AAP, you are against the wishes of the common man. One could also ask what message has been sent by the AAP government by attempting to set aside penalties and outstanding electricity dues of all those who had taken part in its civil disobedience movement against the power companies. What does this say to the AAP supporters who chose to follow the law and pay the bills? A party that peddles the idea that rules that are perceived as discriminatory can be flouted is placing society on a slippery slope. As regards their inexperience - it appears to be more of a case of lack of confidence and respect for institutions: Take the case of the AAP law minster. If there was an illegal activity going on in his constituency (reportedly for months), as the local representative, he should have walked into the police deputy commissioner's office and asked him for his plan and timeframe for tackling the issue rather than leading a posse to the scene himself. Lastly, the AAP has received our votes to change a governing system that has been bent and twisted by corruption. We hope AAP would straighten it and not bend it in some other direction.

The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

JAIPUR LITERATURE FESTIVAL

January 25-31, 2014

15

By Prakash Bhandari have been to so many literary festivals, from Shanghai to Bogota, and this one, the Jaipur Literature festival (JLF) is definitely the least dry, the most carnival-like. Where else would you go from Shakespeare to contemporary politics to V.S. Naipaul and then Sufi musiceach in such a fullbodied way? The music definitely had a cleansing, clarifying quality after that clash of ideas, like a sorbet in the middle of a rich meal, said Pico Iyer who attended JLF. It was indeed a festival, with festooned buildings, colorful drapes, performing artists, more than 75,000 people milling around and entertainment being offered simultaneously to keep the most jaded participant amused. The Zee Jaipur Literature Festival was frequented by socialites, boxwallas, wannabe writers, and a large number of students for five glorious days from Jan 17-21. The literary melting pot in the Pink City attracted a roster of over 200 authors and performers, including Nobel, Booker and Pulitzer prize winners to the Diggi Palace, a converted 19th century mansion. Billed as the worlds largest free literary festival, the event prides itself on its open door policy, eclectic mix of speakers and informal atmosphere. Economics Nobel laureate

Amartya Sen redefined the keynote address with his A Wish a Day for a Week -- his imagined dialogue with the goddess of medium things. His first wish for India was about the study of Sanskrit and other ancient languages, of great books, music and art, which have all fallen off the map. Bright Indian students go for science and technology, he lamented. Sen also wishes for a political system where eliminating persistent deprivation could be a major electoral issue. He looks for a strong, flourishing right-wing party that is secular and not communal, one united by the concept of fraternity. Speaking to John Makinson, chairman of Penguin Random House, he said that Indias political parties had stopped thinking about the concerns of broader society. He was inclined to cheer the Aam Aadmi Party but who are the common people for the party. Are they people who want cheaper cooking gas and diesel and electricity? Or those who have no electricity connections, no water connections? Sen asked. Jonathan Franzen was precise yet off-the-cuff, tart yet endearing. I think individual subjectivity and the whole notion of an individual matteringthat notion was being developed on a broad scale at the same time the novel was being developed, he said on how the novel took over the world, adding. The importance of sitcoms in my generations development cannot be underestimated. Literature was built by a world of misfits, quipped American feminist icon Gloria Steinem. In

(from left) Feminist icon Gloria Steinem, JLF co-director William Dalrymple and others at Jaipur Literature Festival (Jan 17-21).

conversation with Ruchira Gupta, she spoke about reproductive freedoms, differentiating erotica from pornography and stated that in order to achieve democracy it is important to practice democracy at home. There was a packed session on The Global Novel, featuring Man Booker shortlisted authors Jhumpa Lahiri and Jim Crace, as well as Maaza Mengiste and Xiaolu Guo. Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Mark Mazzeti discussed his new book, The Way of the Knife, which analyzed the evolution of the CIA from a spy agency to a killing machine. He observed, The war in Iraq under the Bush administration was a hammer, while the Obama administration handles it more like a scalpel. Former US advisor to Afghanistan Barnett Rubin explained that one adverse effect of trying to pursue peace dialogues whilst simultaneously proceeding with military strikes is that you might end up killing someone with

whom you want to talk to. Nobel laureate Dr. Harold Varmus took the stage to discuss medicine. In speculating about the effect of winning the Prize, he observed that some peoples lives are ruined by the Nobel prize because they become globetrotters who have an opinion about everything. For me the Nobel prize was auspicious, because suddenly my opinions became more valued. Academic Homi Bhabha, sculptors Subodh Gupta and K.S. Radhakrishnan discussed contemporary Indian art with photographer Dayanita Singh, calling for an BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi and AAP leader Shazia Ilmi at the JLF closing debate on artistic revoludemocracy as a form of government. tion, not unlike

that of the 1970s. Million-dollar author Amish Tripathi, of The Shiva Trilogy fame, offered three pieces of advice for budding writers: Write with your heart as the book serves the purpose of the soul, have a stable job side by side to pay your bills or have a rich daddy, and lastly, be pragmatic and practical while marketing your book. Also making an appearance at the festival was award-winning Michelin starred chef Vikas Khanna who told one festival-goer, JLF is a thread to bind us all. It not only brings authors and readers together, but also is an influence for our culture and culture of our future as a civilization and as a nation. The Jaipur BookMark, the Festivals new B2B platform for the publishing industry, got launched with an insightful dialogue on how global and independent publishing houses can continue to co-exist in the growing Indian market.

Cyrus Mistry Interview

n India there are two Cyrus Mistrys worth knowing. One is a successor to Ratan Tata. The other is an author who with just his second novel has hit the headlines. His Chronicle Of A Corpse Bearer won the coveted DSC best South Asian Literature award of $50,000 at the Jaipur Literature Festival. Jeet Thayill won it last year for his Narcopolis. Chronicle Of A Corpse Bearer is a deeply moving book on the Khandhias or corpse bearers of the Parsi community. They are the Dalits among the dwindling Parsi community. Cyruss brother Rohinton Mistry is also an accomplished writer based in Canada. Mistry, a Parsi himself, says there are about 15 Khandhias in Mumbai. Mistry is from Mumbai but now lives in Kodaikanal. His first novel The Radiance of Ashes was published 7years ago. Cyrus has been a playwright (Doongaji House is his well known play) and a freelance journalist.

One more Parsi writer wins literary fame

dling Parsi community. Its about the plight of the small communitys small people who have suffered for generations as untouchables. The book made me healthy and now the award would make me healthier (laughs). Tell us more about the Corpse Bearer I did a lot of research about the Khandhias and their suffering. The novel expectedly asks questions about life and death. It is also a love story and has a magical ending. The narrator of the novel, Phiroze Elchidana, is a man whos not born a Khandhia but opts to become one in order to marry the woman he loves. The enormity of his choice lies in the work and life of the Khandhias: ferrying corpses to the Parsi Towers of Silence in Mumbai to be picked clean by vultures and the ostracization of the khandhias, the pseudo-scientific reasons and justifications for that. What inspires you to write? I am not a person who thinks for plots. I

Cyrus Mistry, who won the South Asian Literature award, with actor Kabir Bedi at the JLF.

He spoke to Prakash Bhandari: How happy are you with the award? Cyrus Mistry: I am happy because its a book about the neglected lot of the dwin-

am driven by my own plentiful emotions both joyous and bitter. What was your first novel The Radiance of Ashes about? It was about our societys cruelty. I thought the book with its thematic appeal would rock the world, but nothing happened and now Chronicle has caused the earthquake; Im amused. Now you have joined the band of Parsi writers who are recognized and rewarded. Im happy with this honor. But in India, its difficult to make a living from writing as the publishers do not pay. I shall be too happy to get commissioned by a foreign publisher to write. Making a living out of writing is as essential as writing a book. What would your next novel be about? I would prefer classic rather than contemporary. I am working on the subject. Who are your favorite writers? Dostoyevsky, Elizabeth Bowen and Angus Wilson.

16

January 25-31, 2014

ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

eepika Padukone's rumoured beau Ranveer Singh has got the seal of approval from her friends who are now urging the actress to get 'serious' about the relationship. This happened during their rendezvous in New York during New Year. Deepika's circle met her Ram-Leela co-star and the advice followed. A source told this newspaper that the pair was joined by friends over dinner and the conversation soon veered towards their 'relationship'. At this point Deepika tried to change the topic but her pals refused to drop the subject. "They unanimously suggested that Deepika should not leave Ranveer," said the source. "One of them blurted out, "Can't you see the man loves you madly? Don't leave him." Perhaps Deepika's friends were hinting at her history of her break-ups; Nihar Pandya, Yuvraj Singh, Ranbir Kapoor and Sidhartha Mallya.

Ranvir Singh with Deepika Padukone in Ram-Leela

Alia Bhatt turns singer

singing. When director Imtiaz Ali asked her to croon a number in Highway, s h e jumped at the idea. "I am not a singer... I think I am a bathr o o m s i n g e r. When I was asked to sing I was excited Actor Alia Bhatt and thought of trying it (singing) out. A R Rahman sir was very patient with me. If I fail as an actress, I will become a singer," Alia said. When the team of Highway was travelling since it is a road movie, Alia would often sing Rahman's song Jiya Re Jiya. That's when Imtiaz thought of exploring her singing talent. Music maestro A R Rahman told her to practice and that if she learns singing for two years, she could have her album. "When I was recording with Rahman sir, I messed up a few times but that is ok...It happens. I did not know anything about singing...I did not know how to sustain my breath, but later on I learnt with the help of Rahman sir," Alia said.

lia Bhatt, who has lent her voice to a song in her upcoming film Highway, says if she fails as an actress, she will turn to

Salman Khan with Sunny Leone

ctor Salman Khan who has been in the news almost daily from hugging arch rival Shah Rukh Khan to shedding a tear on a reality show, did not leave any stone unturned and made it right back to the top of our newsstand. Salman Khan who was hosting an award ceremony recently and promoting his film Jai Ho alongside got a lot of attention when he taught former adult film star Sunny Leone how to drape a saree at the event. Salman gave Sunny a few tips on how to drape the nine yard outfit on stage. Apart from his interaction with Sunny, Salman made headlines for hugging SRK once again after their much publicized hug at an Iftar party last year.

he granddaughters of the original showman Raj Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan, now have plans to walk in his footsteps, but on their own terms. Choosing not to revive their family banner, RK Films, the duo has instead decided to launch their own production house. Though the process of setting it up is underway, details are being kept under wraps. Says a source, Kareena and Karisma have been toying with the idea of starting a production house that churns out mass entertainers that appeal to a wide spectrum of audiences. They may also act together in the first production since audiences are extremely keen to see the sisters share screen space. It is a strange coincidence that none of the fourth-generation Kapoors have shown any inclination towards reviving the prestigious RK banner. Even Ranbir chose to start his own production house. Incidentally, the Kapoor

Karisma, Kareena to turn producers?

Karisma with sister Kareena

sisters arent the first leading ladies to dabble in production. In recent years, Shilpa Shetty, Lara Dutta, Dia Mirza, Sushmita Sen and Anushka Sharma have all launched their banners with varying degrees of success.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD

January 25-31, 2014

17

Katrina Kaif

fter Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor and Freida Pinto, actress Katrina Kaif is the fourth Indian to join the list of spokespersons of global beauty brand L'Oreal Paris. The Dhoom 3 star says it's an "incredible privilege to join this league of ladies" and feels honoured. "It's been a brand that I have always admired for its glamour and powerful message of Because you're worth it'. The stunning women that represent the brand across the globe are strong motivators," Katrina said in a statement. Global ambassador for L'Oreal Paris Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who has been a part of the brand for 12 years, said: "I would like to extend a warm welcome to Katrina to the L'Oreal Paris family. I am sure she will enjoy representing team India as brand ambassador and I wish her the very best."

ctor Juhi Chawla, who will be seen in her maiden negative role in Gulaab Gang, says she was skeptical to take up the film as she was worried about the audience reaction to her shade of grey. The film is inspired by a real-life group of women activists in the Bundelkhand region and talks about empowerment of women. "When the director narrat- Juhi with Madhuri during a promotion of Gulaab Gang ed me the script, I liked it but felt was he sure of cast- screen. I hope it does well. it is less likely that they will ing me in this role... Has he Before this film, I was never get another chance to work mistaken me for some other offered a negative role... I together in future, as the actress. I was scared and am happy this film came my story of Gulaab Gang is very strong and such projworried if I would be able to way and I did it," she said. Also, Juhi will be seen ects are not churned out in do this role... Would I be accepted? Later on when I sharing screen space with bulk. "I said yes to the film kept reading it (story), I got her once-rival Madhuri because of two reasons -convinced I could do it... I Dixit for the first time in the Madhuri was in it and secfilm. In the 1990s both were ondly the script. She is a tried my best," Juhi said. "I did not realise I would contemporaries and never wonderful actress and good be able to play villain on worked together. Juhi thinks looking," Juhi said.

I am against illogical films: Nawazuddin

We dont get respect abroad: Irrfan Khan

ctor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who will be seen in Salman Khan starrer Kick, says he is not doing a blink-and-youmiss-it role in the film. Earlier, Nawazuddin appeared in commercial films like Sarfarosh, Talaash and others. Now, he will be seen in the mass entertainer Kick. "It is not that I will do a blink-and-youmiss-it role in a big commercial film of A-list actors. The story (of Kick) is good, hence I agreed to do it. The story is superb. The script inspired me to do the film," Nawazuddin told. "I am not against all commercial films, I am against illogical films. All commercial films are not illogical. Like 3 Idiots was a commercial film and had a very good story," he said. With the image of Salman and the kind of films he does, the entire focus is on him than other actors. But, Nawazuddin does not feel so. "The character that I have been offered is really good, it has logic to whatever he does. As an actor I must explore myself in every genre," he said.

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui

averick actor Irrfan Khan may be a global name to reckon with, thanks to his work in Hollywood, but the 47-year-old feels that Indians dont get the respect they deserve, abroad. Speaking at the ongoing Jaipur Literature Festival, Irrfan made no attempt to sugarcoat his words, when he said, India ka wajood bahar aisa kuch khaas nahin hai. Apko izzat nahi milti (You dont get respect). While here, we keep saying 'Saare jahan se achcha Hindustan humara, the truth is that our existence is not worth talking about in the West, be it in terms of Bollywood or otherwise." Stressing that people in the West know little about India or Actor Irrfan Khan Indians, he added, People abroad are curious about us and they want to invest here, but they dont know much about us." Irrfan, who got rave reviews for his role in The Lunchbox (2013), may be considered for film awards this year.

18

January 25-31, 2014

TRAVEL

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Visitors playing with tigers at the Tiger Temple sanctuary.

By Jaideep Sarin

hat will you do in Bangkok for seven days traveling with your family? The question, raised by a few friends just before we left for Thailand's capital could have even raised a doubt or two in our minds on whether we were doing the right thing. Should I include Phuket or Koh Samui in the itinerary to cover the days? Will the kids, both aged below 12 years, get bored of seeing the nightlife and shopping? We got the answers as we landed in Bangkok's busy Swarnabhumi International Airport and in the days that unfolded. The holiday in Thailand, with Bangkok being the base for day trips, turned out to be a wild one literally - for us. First-hand encounters with tigers of all ages and sizes - from one month-old cubs to the big cats weighing over 250 kg - at the Tiger Temple in Sai Yok, an absolutely fantastic Dolphin show at Safari World near Bangkok, being with the sharks at the Siam Ocean World and getting kissed by amusing Orangutans or shopping in the floating Damnoen Saduak market. The holiday left us wanting for more. "Bangkok certainly has a lot more to offer than the nightlife, shopping, massages and sex tourism that it is generally associated with. The floating markets, river cruise, wildlife adventure, Ocean World, Buddha temples and many more delights are there to experience. The city has great potential for all kinds of travelers, be it indi-

viduals, couples, families or groups," Patrick Dean, a visitor from Britain who was on his third trip to Thailand, said. At the Safari World, which is nearly one hour away from downtown Bangkok, an open zoo and world-class theme park attract hundreds of visitors every day for a close encounter with the best of wildlife and marine life. The place is full of live action. The Safari Park here is one place where you can drive in your own car or take a park bus to see nearly 200 species of rare and endangered animals - up close and personal. Rolling down windows or getting out of the vehicles, though, is not permitted as the animals include tigers and lions. Thousands of pelicans can be seen at the Great Pelican Lake. At the Safari Terrace,

visitors can feed a big herd of giraffes. At the Marine Park, the dolphin show is certainly the high point, with six dolphins executing breathtaking stunts with their trainers. To top it all (for 490 baht/Rs.920), one can get photographed while patting a live dolphin which comes up on a platform for a photo-op. From Orangutans to tiger cubs, one can have pictures taken with ease at the Jungle Walk. "The Safari Park is an amazing experience with wildlife. It gives you a real close encounter with a variety of animals," said Jayesh Shah, a visitor from Ahmedabad. For the daring ones, a trip to the Tiger Temple complex in Sai Yok district of Kanchanaburi province, which is about a three-hour drive (175 km) from Bangkok, will

translate into a live experience with the big cats. The tigers here are managed by Buddhist monks and assisted by a number of volunteers who come from various countries. The entry fee to the complex is 600 baht per person. The Tiger Temple offers personal encounters with the big cats as well as playing time with the younger ones out in the open. One can even lap up the tiger cubs inside some enclosures. The personal encounters cost an additional 1,000 baht per person for a 40-minute delight. At the Siam Ocean Park in the heart of Bangkok, the undersea marine life can be seen at its best. One can see sharks and other fish varieties from a glass bottom boat or through a 180-degree glass tunnel. For an additional cost and some amount of daring, one can

even get into the water and walk with the sharks. At the floating market, motorized Thai tail boats take you around on an over two-hour trip. One moves through the small water canals on the boat through gift shops, other boats loaded with cut fruits, snacks and other goodies. For an extra cost, an elephant ride through water and a monkey show are also thrown in. In Bangkok, though there is no dearth of shopping malls and night markets, one recent attraction is the Asiatique night market along the Chao Praya river front. The place boasts of a giant Ferris Wheel, fashion and home accessories shops, pubs, restaurants, food circuses and the riverfront international food joints. Be it day or night, Bangkok can offer something for everyone.

Getting there
Bangkok is connected by air to 10 Indian destinations, including the four mini metros.

Accommodation
A room in a five-star hotel in Bangkok costs between 3,500 and 4,000 baht.

Eating out
A buffet in a posh Bangkok hotel or restaurant around costs 800 baht. A dinner buffet Baiyoke Sky Hotel's 78th floor restaurant in Bangkok costs 850 baht. A two-hour boat ride in Bangkok and dinner on board costs around 1,400 baht.

Orang-utans playing with tourists at the Safari World Park near Bangkok.

Ferris Wheel at the Asiatique Market in Bangkok

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

DIASPORA

January 25-31, 2014

19

France offers to help Indian diaspora get PIO cards

Paris: France has offered to collaborate with India to resolve the question of persons of Indian origin not getting their PIO or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards for want of the necessary documents demanded by the Indian government. This assurance was given by French Ambassador to India Francois Richier to the Francophone Indian diaspora that had gathered in New Delhi for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas earlier this month, it has been disclosed here. Addressing the gathering of PIOs from France, Reunion, Guadeloupe, Martinique and some other parts of the world, Richier said he had already discussed the issue with the officials of the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs and he hoped that a solution would be found quickly to enable the nearly 500,000 PIOs living in France and its territories overseas get the cards. The Indian government wants the PIOs to furnish documents that prove the Indian origin of their ancestors. This is especially difficult for the PIOs living in Reunion, Guadeloupe and Martinique as all the archives of records and data have been destroyed in natural catastrophes like volcanic eruptions, floods and fires. This has left the diaspora in a lurch as almost none of them have been able to provide these documents. The Francophone Indian diaspora counts nearly 1.2 million and, of this, nearly 500,000 live in overseas French territories (former French colonies) in the Indian Ocean as well as the Caribbean. The Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean and neighboring French territories like Mayotte and Comores account for over 400,000 PIOs, while the Caribbean French territories like Guadeloupe, Martinique and French Guyana account for about 100,000 PIOs. Richier told the gathering, organized by Media India Group and GOPIO International in collaboration with the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, that his suggestion was that the French administration issue certificates showing the Indian origin of the PIOs and that the Indian government should accept them.

1.4 mn workers regularized, 250 still stuck in Saudi Arabia

New Delhi: About 1.4 million Indian workers got regularised. 250 Indians are still stuck in Saudi Arabia without valid documents while nearly 140,000 workers have returned due to the kingdom's 'Nitaqat' labour policy, Overseas Indian Affairs Secretary Prem Narain has said. "Some 250 people are still there. They are stuck because of cases related to incomplete documents," said Narain. The government is talking to the Saudi authorities to get them back, Narain said. "Recently, Saudi Arabia's Labour Minister was here. We requested him to allow those workers to come back to India. They (Saudi authorities) have given assurance...they are trying to finalise those cases," he said. Narain said the Indian mission in Saudi Arabia was providing all the necessary help to the affected workers. More than half of the nearly 2.8 million Indian workers in the kingdom were affected by the Nitaqat policy aimed at increasing job opportunities for locals. Nearly 1.4 million Indian workers were regularised, while some 140,000, who lacked proper documents, were forced to return due to the new policy implemented in November 2013. The secretary claimed that proactive steps taken by the Indian government and strong diplomatic relations helped avert a major crisis. "About 14 lakh (1.4 million) people are regularised in Saudi, they did not come back to India. Otherwise under the normal Nitaqat policy they would have been required to come back," said Narain. "We persuaded them to extend the grace period and finally around 14 lakh people were regularised," he added. Narain said the new policy is good for the genuine expatriate workers holding proper documents. "A majority of the Indian workers in Saudi are in blue collar jobs. A lot of them are illiterate and they are prone to exploitation. The new policy is good for them," he said. India and Saudi Arabia recently signed an agreement to protect the interests of domestic workers. The agreement was signed during Saudi Arabian Labour Minister Adel bin Mohammed Fakeih's official visit to New Delhi earlier this month. Narain said India would soon sign similar agreements with other countries to protect the interests of low-paid workers, who are generally prone to exploitation.

Indian consul general in Dubai promises better services

Dubai: Anurag Bhushan, the new consul general of India in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has promised to ensure better and faster services for the Indian community and make the consulate more approachable for its nationals. Bhushan, while attending a welcome dinner hosted by the India Club here Wednesday, said he admired the resourcefulness and never-say-die spirit of the Indian community in Dubai, Khaleej Times reported Friday. Bhushan appreciated the efforts made by the community to serve their motherland as well as their second home. There are many things that we need to learn from the people here, especially their far-sightedness, he said. The consul general said the welfare of the community would be of prime importance for him and he would strive to improve the services provided by the mission and the agencies. The UAE is home to around two million expatriate Indians.

British MP Alok Sharma named CF India co-chairman

London: Indian-origin member of British parliament and vice chairman of Britain's Conservative Party Alok Sharma has been named cochairman of Conservative Friends of India (CF India), an Indian community organization affiliated to the party. Sharma, an MP for Reading West in Berkshire county, replaces Shailesh Vara, MP for North West Cambridgeshire, who has stepped down following a promotion to government as minister for courts and legal aid. Sharma will be working alongside Ranjit Baxi who is also the groups existing cochairman. Alok has been a CF India Board member since its launch by Prime Minister David Cameron in 2012 and also serves as vice chairman of the Conservative Party. Party said: I am delighted to welcome Alok Sharma as the new co-chairman of Conservative Friends of India. Alok brings with him a wealth of campaigning experience and will be a huge asset to CF India. I look forward to working with him to ensure that the party continues to build on its strong ties with the British Indian communities". Congratulating Sharma, Baxi said: Alok's longstanding association with the Indian community and his work in promoting Indo-British ties will be very much welcomed by the Indian community and CF India members. I very much look forward to working with him." CF India seeks to build stronger links between the Conservative Party, the British Indian community and India.

Dubai NRI Yusuffali MA buys into South Indian Bank

Dubai: Dubai-based NRI businessman Yusuffali MA, the founder of the $5.1billion Lulu Group which runs one of the biggest retail chains in Asia, has made his fourth known bet on the Indian banking sector. Yusuffali picked up 2.23 per cent stake in Thrissur-based South Indian Bank Ltd for Rs 63 crore on Monday. Yusuffali Musaliam Veettil Abdul Kader of LuLu Group, who has been actively buying shares of mid to small banks, has holdings in other South-based lenders like Federal Bank (4.47 per cent), Dhanlaxmi Bank (4.99 per cent) and Catholic Syrian Bank (4.99 per cent). Yusuffali picked up 30 million shares of South Indian Bank from Fid Funds (Mauritius) Ltd, part of asset management major Fidelity. Yusuffali is the managing director of Emke Group, a Gulf-based retail and leisure conglomerate operating under the

Alok Sharma

I look forward to working with Ranjit and the rest of the team at CF India as we build further links with the British Indian community and campaign for Conservative success in 2015 and beyond," Sharma said in a statement posted on the CF India website Thursday. Lord Andrew Feldman, chairman of the Conservative

Yusuffali MA

flagship brand Lulu. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, the group has diversified into many areas such as manufacturing, food processing and hospitality with retail being the prominent among them. Besides increasing his stakes in these banks, Yusuffali is betting on the remittance business through Lulu Forex, owned and operated by LuLu International Exchange LLC.

20

January 25-31, 2014

SUBCONTINENT

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Ignoring Pakistan dangerous: US think-tank

Washington: A US strategy for Asia that does not contemplate Pakistans role is incomplete and a policy that views Pakistan in the context of Afghanistan is shortsighted, says a US think-tank, Council on Foreign Relations. A special report titled Reorienting US Pakistan Strategy: From Af-Pak to Asia, warns that focusing narrowly on security threats will alienate Pakistanis and reinforce a dangerous hostility from Pakistans elected and uniformed leadership. The reports author, Daniel S Markey, argues that Pakistan is also unusually well positioned to play a non-aligned role, maintaining ties with both Washington and Beijing and reap the benefits of each relationship without having to pick sides. While highlighting the problems Pakistan faces today, the report insists that the country is not Islamabad as part and parcel of an impending US abandonment of Pakistan, tilt towards India, and effort to contain China all unwelcome developments. The paper warns that such concerns are likely to exacerbate Islamabads sense of insecurity and widen existing rifts with Washington. To counter this, the report advocates a two-pronged approach: confront and quarantine the immediate threats it poses to regional security while integrating Pakistan into the broader US agenda in Asia. The paper urges the US administration to open a formal dialogue with Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Pakistan issues and explore options for expanded counter-terror cooperation with India. It proposes that the United States restructure its military aid to Pakistan, decoupling it from the war in Afghanistan and focusing it instead on Pakistans efforts to fight terrorism within its borders. The paper recommends that the United States create opportunities for Pakistan to develop relationships with its neighbors in Asia, particularly India. To encourage a trade agreement among India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, the paper proposes preferential access to American markets on the condition that those countries reduce barriers to intraregional trade. Another recommendation that could raise eyebrows in Islamabad urges the US to discuss with India, after its general elections, the possibility of basing American military and intelligence operatives in the country. The report argues that more normal relations with India could enable Pakistan to act as a regional trade hub or even contribute to regional security.

The CFR report insists that the country is not doomed to a downward slide

doomed to a downward slide as improvements in leadership and governance can enable it to play a more constructive role over time. It warns US policy-makers that a hostile or violently unstable Pakistan would compromise the broader US agenda in Asia, whereas a cooperative, growing Pakistan would advance it.

The report, however, notes that groups like the Pakistani Taliban now attack Pakistans state institutions and civilians in ways that were inconceivable in prior decades and that raise doubts about Islamabads capacity to maintain basic law and order. The report points that the current US strategy is interpreted in

Bangladesh opposition demands fresh polls

Nepal doctors' strike continues despite SC order

Kathmandu: Strike by doctors in Nepal to push for reforms in medical education entered the third day on Tuesday despite the Supreme Court ordering them to resume services in hospitals across the country. Tens of thousands of people had assess only to emergency services as doctors boycotted work in solidarity of a colleague on huger strike against the government appointment of a new dean at the state-run Tribhuvan University's Institute of Medicine. Orthopaedic surgeon Govinda K C, who works at the Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, began a hunger strike 11 days ago to protest the alleged political appointment of the institution's new dean. Doctors attending to him said his health is deteriorating. Dr KC said the appointment is part of a corruption conspiracy to give affiliation to new medical colleges which do not fulfill the basic standards to run medical courses and his protest is against the interference of a "medical mafia and politicians" in the Institute. On Monday, the Supreme Court had ordered doctors to resume services in hospitals but Nepal Medical

The strike left tens of thousands of patients with access only to emergency care

Association (NMA) said only out-patient services have been suspended and patients have been provided services through emergency services. "Our protest will continue till Dr K C's demands are met," NMA senior vice president Dr Pashupati Regmi said.

Khaleda Zia, chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party

Dhaka: Bangladesh's opposition has demanded fresh parliament polls under a non-party caretaker government. "Arrange fresh polls at the earliest under a non-party neutral government," Xinhua quoted former prime minister Khaleda Zia as saying while addressing a public rally in Dhaka's lush-green Suhrawardy Udyan Monday evening. Khaleda, chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), also urged Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government for an immediate dialogue to end the impasse over the mode of the election-time government. "This government is a scandalous government. It's now trying to stay in power by using force," she alleged while addressing the rally, the first since the formation of Hasina's new cabinet

following the Jan 5 parliament elections. "But no government can stay in power this way for long," Khaleda added. Some 21 parties, including the BNP, boycotted the parliament elections as Hasina did not heed their demand for a non-party caretaker government to hold the polls. Khaleda has again termed the present government "illegal". Hasina formed her new cabinet taking the oath of office Jan 12 for the second consecutive term after the controversial parliament polls. Addressing a rally Monday in Satkhira district, 240 km southwest of capital Dhaka, Hasina said Khaleda Zia has to pay for the mistake she did by boycotting the Jan 5 national elections. Hasina also warned she would act tougher against the post-poll troublemakers.

Rights body for global pressure on Lanka

"It's clearer than ever that an independent international investigation is needed to make genuine progress in providing justice for victims," HRW says in its 2014 World report. The Sri Lankan government responded to a March resolution by the United Nations Human Rights Council by announcing various actions to provide accountability in accordance with its own Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission. "While some of these are positive - both their outcome and broader impact on accountability is uncertain". HRW contends that Sri Lankans who criticised the government remained subject to harassment or threats. "As 2014 begins, increased international pressure in support of basic rights is desperately needed to reverse a course that is threatening democratic rule in Sri Lanka," Adams said. Sri Lanka has come under increasing international pressure to probe allegations of excessive civilian deaths during the final battle against the LTTE that ended in May 2009.

The Lankan govt has failed to advance justice for the victims of the country's civil war

Colombo: Sri Lanka made little progress in 2013 in accountability for serious human rights abuses committed during the country's civil war, Human Rights Watch has said and called for an international probe to provide justice for victims. "The Sri Lankan government makes a lot of claims about pursuing accountability for wartime abuses, but the world is still waiting to see some results," said Brad Adams Asia director at Human Rights Watch.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

INTERNATIONAL

January 25-31, 2014

21

Iran suspends controversial Syria talks face 'formidable' obstacles: UN chief n-activities: IAEA
Tehran: Iran has halted uranium enrichment and a series of nuclear activities mentioned in the deal with six world powers, an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report said, which might facilitate the easing of sanctions imposed on Iran. The report said Iran has ceased uranium enrichment above five percent at the Pilot and Fordow fuel enrichment plants, referring to Natanz and Fordow enrichment plants, two of Iran's main nuclear enrichment plants. The suspension of uranium enrichment above five percent is considered to be a vital step towards easing of Western sanctions imposed on Iran, which is agreed to in the deal with the five permanent members of the UN Security Council -- US, Britain, France, China, Russia -- plus Germany. The IAEA also said Tehran has begun diluting the 20 percent enriched uranium stock pile, an action which makes uranium less suitable for making a nuclear bomb. Experts said the over 240 kg 20 percent enriched uranium is necessary for making a nuclear bomb. Iran also stopped manufacturing activities at Arak reactor, a heavy water reactor, which could produce plutonium, another kind of fuel for building nuclear weapons. "Iran is not conducting any further advances to its activities at the Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant, or the Arak reactor (IR-40), including the manufacture and testing of fuel for the IR-40," the IAEA said in the report. The IAEA would hold a board meeting Jan 24 to discuss about funds and other issues for future inspection in Iran. Switzerland: UN SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon says that the peace talks for Syria, which opened in Switzerland this week, face "formidable" challenges. Ban called on the Syrian government and the opposition trying to overthrow it to negotiate in good faith. "We know that it has been an extremely difficult path to reach this point. We have lost valuable time and many many lives. Let me not mince words, the challenges before you and before all of us are formidable. But your presence here raises hope," he said in his opening remarks. The peace conference marks the first time the government led by Bashar Assad and Western-backed members of the rebellion have met face-to-face. But the umbrella group representing the opposition is in disarray, and the talks themselves were in question just two days ago. The meeting, dubbed Geneva II

The historic Geneva II conference is being attended by representatives from both Syrian government and opposition

and chaired by UN SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon, is being attended by representatives from both the Syrian government and the opposition, the first time this has happened in three years. The conference also saw foreign ministers and officials from nearly 40 other countries, including those from the five permanent members of the UN Security

Council - the US, Russia, China, France and Britain - along with delegates from regional powers, such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Qatar, among others. Arab League chief Nabil Elaraby and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton will also be present at the meeting.

Obama to visit Netherlands, Belgium, Italy

Washington: US President Barack Obama would visit the Netherlands, Belgium and Italy in March and hold a meeting with Pope Francis, the White House said. During his stay in the Netherlands (March 24-25), Obama will participate in a nuclear security summit, a gathering of leaders from four organisations and 53 countries with a view to preventing nuclear materials from falling into the hands of terrorists. While in Brussels (March 26), Obama will attend a US-EU summit with the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission. "This will be President Obama's first visit to the EU institutions," the White House said, noting that he will also meet with NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen in Brussels. The next day, Obama will travel to Vatican City to meet Pope Francis. In Rome, Obama will have separate meetings with Italian president and prime minister.

No help from Russia in leaking US secrets: Snowden

Thai pro-govt leader shot, emergency on

Bangkok: A leader of Thailand's pro-government "Red Shirt" movement was wounded this week in a shooting in the northeast, stirring tensions as opposition protesters ignored a state of emergency imposed in the capital. Local radio host Kwanchai Praipana, one of the main figures behind the Red Shirts' mass rallies in 2010 in Bangkok that ended in a bloody military crackdown, was shot in the shoulder and knee by an unidentified man, police said. "It's likely that the motive for the shooting is political," police Colonel Kowit Charoenwattanasak said. The attack came as a state of emergency went into force in Bangkok and nearby areas to deal with mass protests trying to force Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra from office. The Red Shirts are broadly loyal to Yingluck's older brother Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted as prime minister by the military seven years ago and lives in Dubai to avoid a jail term for corruption. While they have largely
Former US spy agency contractor Edward Snowden

The 60-day state of emergency hands broad powers to the security forces

remained on the sidelines during the current protests, Red Shirt leaders have warned that their supporters could rise up if a government which they helped to elect is removed from power again. Yingluck is under intense pressure to step down after more than two months of street rallies aimed at ousting her elected government and installing an unelected "people's council". The 60-day state of emergency hands broad powers to the securi-

ty forces. When the decree was last imposed by the previous government during "Red Shirts" rallies in 2010, more than 90 people were killed and nearly 1,900 injured in a crackdown by soldiers firing live rounds and backed by armored vehicles. But Yingluck's government said that, unlike on that occasion, it had no plans to impose a curfew, restrict public gatherings or censor media.

Washington: Former US spy agency contractor Edward Snowden said he acted alone in leaking US government secrets and that suggestions by some US lawmakers he might have had help from Russia were "absurd," the New Yorker magazine reported. In an interview, the magazine said was conducted by encrypted means from Moscow, Snowden was quoted as saying, "This 'Russian spy' push is absurd." Snowden said he "clearly and unambiguously acted alone, with no help from anyone, much less a government," the New Yorker said. "It won't stick. ... Because it's clearly false, and the American people are smarter than politicians think they are," the publication quoted Snowden as saying. The head of the U.S. House of Representatives Intelligence Committee said on Sunday he was investigating whether Snowden had help from Russia in stealing and revealing U.S. government secrets.

"I believe there's a reason he ended up in the hands - the loving arms - of an FSB agent in Moscow. I don't think that's a coincidence," Representative Mike Rogers told NBC's "Meet the Press," referring to the Russian intelligence agency that is a successor of the Soviet-era KGB. Rogers did not provide specific evidence to back his suggestions of Russian involvement in Snowden's activities, but said, "Some of the things we're finding we would call clues that certainly would indicate to me that he had some help." Snowden fled the United States last year to Hong Kong and then to Russia, where he was granted at least a year of asylum. U.S. officials want him returned to the United States for prosecution. His disclosures of large numbers of stolen U.S. secret documents sparked a debate around the world about the reach of U.S. electronic surveillance.

22

January 25-31, 2014

BUSINESS

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

India's growth to rise to 6.4 percent in 2015: IMF

Washington: With growth in India picking up after a favorable monsoon season and higher exports, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects a further increase, thanks to stronger structural policies supporting investment. India's growth is projected to reach 5.4 percent in 2014, rising to 6.4 percent in 2015 with global growth expected to increase in 2014 after having been stuck in low gear in 2013, says the IMF's latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) Update. The IMF forecasts global growth to average 3.7 percent in 2014?up from 3 percent in 2013?and to rise to 3.9 percent in 2015 with global activity and world trade picking up in the second half of 2013, as anticipated in the October 2013 WEO. In advanced economies, final demand has increased broadly as expected. In emerging markets, a rebound in exports was the main driver of better activity, while domestic demand generally remained subdued except in China, IMF said. "There will be more growth rotation from emerging market economies to advanced economies in 2014-15," said Olivier Blanchard, the IMF's chief economist and director of the IMF's Research Department. The overall picture is one of strengthening activity. But the IMF Update also points to important differences across major economies and regions. Growth in the United States is expected to be 2.8 percent in 2014, up from 1.9 percent in 2013. This pickup is partly thanks to a reduction in the fiscal drag that will result from the recent budget agreement. But the budget agreement also implies that most of the sequester cuts will remain in place in FY2015, instead of being reversed as assumed in the October 2013 WEO. So growth in 2015 is now expected to be only slightly higher than in 2014.

At Davos, Iran vows against nuclear weapons

Davos: Having been long-sidelined on global platforms, Iran on Thursday said it wants to engage with different countries in the world and declared that its nuclear energy program would never be used for nuclear weapons. Speaking at the World Economic Forum annual meeting here, the first major global platform after initiation of talks between Iran and the US recently, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said his nation never desired to have a nuclear weapon and it would never desire to have one in future as well. He further said that Syria has been engaged in a major catastrophe and The four-day meeting would bring together over 2,500 Iran was very sad about such acts. "Iran participants from almost 100 countries believes that everyone should first try to put a full stop to this violence in Syria and then ing nuclear issue and this is a very important develwork on an agenda after talking with everyone. We opment," Rouhani said. He said Iran wants to have good relationships with are helping Syrians and everyone should contribute all the countries that it has officially recognised. to help them," he added. Last year, sanctions-hit Iran and the P5+1 group of "Peace in Middle East is very important and this goes beyond economic issues. Regional cooperation world powers signed an accord that consists of a has become very important with us, we intend to short-term freeze of portions of Iran's nuclear proopen trade and industrial relations with all our gramme in exchange for reduced economic sanctions, which crippled the Islamic Republic. neighbours and countries in central Asia. Stating that "this young republic is set to flourish", "We also have deep ties with Europe. Engagements between Iran and the US has also the President said Iran strongly condemns terrorism entered into a new phase last month. Leaders from and violence and fighting them would require ecotwo countries are meeting regularly on issues includ- nomic growth and job creation.

Polaris India launches iconic US superbike 'Indian'

New Delhi: Polaris India, a wholly-owned subsidiary of US-based Polaris Industries Inc, has launched its iconic motorcycle brand 'Indian', priced between Rs 26.5 lakh and Rs 33 lakh (exshowroom Delhi). Indian, which is the oldest US motorcycle brand, will compete in India with the likes of Harley Davidson and the recently launched British superbike brand Triumph. "This launch holds great importance for us... Polaris India has ended the long wait for Indian motorcycle enthusiasts with this launch," company's Managing Director Pankaj Dubey told reporters here. Polaris India has launched three models under the Chief range -- Classic,

Sony launches world's smallest Android tablet

New Delhi: In the world of consumer technology, smartphones, tablets and, more recently, phablets are commonly used terms. However, Sony has launched the world's first tablet with screen smaller than 7-inch. The new tablet called Xperia Z Ultra will be available only in Japan starting this week at 52,000 yuan. Sony launched the Xperia Z Ultra phablet last year globally with 4G calling functionality. Apart from the removal of cellular antennas, which make the new tablet a Wi-Fi-only model, it has the same high-end specifications as its phablet counterpart. The key features of the model include a 6.4-inch display with stylus support, quad-core 2.2GHz Snapdragon 800 chipset, 6.5mm thick profile, waterproof and scratch-resistant glass body and Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) operating sys-

Sony launched the Xperia Z Ultra phablet last year globally with 4G calling functionality

Indian would compete in India with the likes of Harley Davidson

Vintage and Chieftain, priced at Rs 26.5 lakh, 29.5 lakh and Rs 33 lakh (all exshowroom Delhi). When asked about the sales target for the bikes, Dubey said: "In 2012-2013 the market size for superbikes over 1,600 cc in the country stood at around 200 units. This year, we expect

the market to grow by 4050 per cent. We are looking to have 10 per cent market share of that." Polaris India has around 50 touch points in the country. Minnesotabased Polaris acquired Indian Motorcycles in April 2011 and unveiled an all new range of motorcycles in August 2013.

tem. Other specifications of the Xperia Z Ultra tablet include 16GB onboard storage, 2GB RAM, microSD card support up to 64GB, NFC, microUSB 2.0, Bluetooth 4.0 and 3,050mAh battery. While Sony has retained the 8MP camera in the new tablet, it has removed the LED flash from this model. The new model is Sony's

second tablet in the market at present, next only to the Xperia Tablet Z. This is the first time a major manufacturer has developed a tablet with screen size under 7-inch; most manufacturers opt for 7- and 8-inch screen sizes for tablets. The company also recently launched the world's first USB drives for smartphones and tablets.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

SPORTS

January 25-31, 2014

23

India lose 2nd ODI against NZ, No 1 rank too

Hamilton: India lost their No.1 ranking they held since the 2011 World Cup triumph as they went down by 15 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis Method against New Zealand in the rain-affected second ODI at the Seddon Park here. Set a rain-revised daunting target of 297 in 42 overs, India riding on some stellar show by Virat Kohli (78) and Mahendra Singh Dhoni (56) came tantalisingly close and reached 277/9 in 41.3 overs as rain interrupted again for the third time. Later, the victory margin was revised to 15 runs in favour of New Zealand. Fast bowler Tim Southee got four for 72 while Corey Anderson got three for 67. New Zealand, put in by India, scored 271 for seven in 42 overs during when the game was held up twice due to rain for nearly two hours. And when India came out to bat, they were given a stiff target to chase. Openers Rohit Sharma (12) and Shikhar Dhawan (20) were slow off the block and it put pressure on the middle order. Ajinkya Rahane (36) and Suresh Raina (35) came up with valuable knocks but the onus was on Kohli and Dhoni to take the team home safely. Kohli's 65-ball innings was studded with seven fours and two sixes

Indian-origin man takes NZ$100,000 catch

India lost their No.1 ranking they held since the 2011 World Cup

but he fell after trying to hit Southee through mid-wicket. Dhoni also raised hopes with his 44-ball innings that included seven fours and one six, but once he departed in the 40th over off Corey Anderson, India's hopes vanished. Earlier, the New Zealand innings was powered by Kane Williamson, who was the top scorer with 77, and ex-skipper Ross Taylor's 57, his second consecutive half-century in the series. Martin Guptill and Anderson made 44 each but in contrasting fashion. Guptill took 65 balls while Anderson needed just 17 balls. Anderson smacked five sixes and two fours during his whirlwind knock and missed the record of the

fastest ODI fifty by a whisker. Indian pacer Mohammad Shami got three for 55. The first interruption took place when the hosts were 98/1 in the 17th over. They were off the ground for seven minutes due to a heavy drizzle. When the second interruption took place due to heavy shower, New Zealand, put in to bat by India, were set for a big score and play was stopped with the score at 170/2 in 33.2 overs. But when play resumed, New Zealand suffered a batting collapse and from 170/2 they slumped to 252/7. They lost wickets in a heap but still managed to score 101 runs in the last 8.4 overs.

Wellington: An Indian-origin man in New Zealand won NZ$100,000 after clasping a huge six from all-rounder Corey Anderson during the second India-New Zealand one-day international (ODI) match in Hamilton. Jatinder Singh, 23, from Te Aroha in Hamilton, has become the second winner of the competition, after Michael Morton from the city won the prize in the fifth ODI against the West Indies earlier this month at Seddon Park cricket stadium, Fairfax New Zealand reported. In three other ODIs and two T20s against the Windies for which the competition was held, no one won the prize. To take part in the contest, one has to purchase a Tui T-shirt and a lanyard and take a clean onehanded catch during any of the international limited overs cricket matches in this South Pacific island nation this

summer. The first person to do so at each game wins the money. Singh, who used to play cricket for the Te Aroha club before it folded up last season due to lack of players, had bought the last available T-shirt to take part in the contest. He thanked his friend Dexter, who convinced him to sit in their spot high on the bank and a bit straighter than where Singh had wanted to sit. When Anderson smashed Indian pacer Ishant Sharma on to the embankment, the ball came straight to him and he clasped it. "To be honest, I got up and didn't think it was going to make it as far as me, I thought it was going to land short, so then I sort of gave up on it, and then it kept going and next thing I know it was in my right hand. Really, it happened so fast," Singh was quoted as saying.

Australia Open: Paes-Stepanek lose in quarters

NFL still committed to a Super Bowl Sunday

New York: The National Football League (NFL) officials said that they could change the time or day of game of the Super Bowl in case of a severe snowstorm, but say they remain committed to the current time slot, which is on Feb 2. Eric Grubman, the league's executive vice president, told reporters at a news conference at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium that the NFL used this week's snowfall in the New York metropolitan area as a dress rehearsal for a potential snowstorm during Super Bowl week. He said he is confident the game would be played if there were a severe snowstorm the day before the game, but offered no specifics of what would happen if heavy snow hit on the day of the game. Grubman said it would require 24 hours to move the game time and 36 hours to switch days. He said the ideal switch, if one must occur, would be 72 hours beforehand because there would need to

Leander Paes with his Czech partner Radek Stepanek

Melbourne: India's Leander Paes and his Czech partner Radek Stepanek lost their men's doubles quarterfinals while Rohan Bopanna went down in his last-eight match in the mixed doubles at the Australia Open here. Paes-Stepanek suffered a 2-6, 6-7 loss to Michael Llodra and Nicholas Mahut, the 13th seeds from France. Both Paes and Stepanek were erratic in the first set and committed four double faults. They

also made 11 unforced errors while the Frenchmen made six. Later Friday, Bopanna and his Slovakian partner Katarina Srebotnik were humbled by Australia's Jarmila Gajdosova and Matthew Ebden. The second seeds lost 5-7, 3-6 in 67 minutes. Sania Mirza (Horia Tecau) and Paes (Daniela Hantuchova) remain in the mixed doubles draw. They play their quarterfinals with their respective partners.

The National Football League officials said they could change the time in case of a severe snowstorm

be a public-relations effort to get the word out that the day or time was being switched. The league placed stadium workers in the stands and access roads to see how quickly they could clear the way. "We're treating this as if it's pregame and we have to get the bowl cleared," Grubman

said. The NFL has had contingency plans in place for months that could see the game moved to Saturday or Monday, but league officials cautioned that those plans are sketched for every Super Bowl, whether there's a chance of a blizzard or not.

24

January 25-31, 2014

HEALTH

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Healthy treats for breakfast

London: Cereals, toasts and sweet delights may seem unavoidable during breakfast time, but it is advisable to consume healthier food to begin your day with, says an expert. According to Ilona Wesle, a nutritionist and co-founder of MyDetoxDiet.com, wheat must be avoided in the morning as it converts quickly to sugar and then fat, and that even without the added sugar in cereals and jams, reports femalefirst.co.uk. Here are a few tasty ideas which will satiate your tummy as well as taste buds: Bircher muesli: Take rolled oats with sliced apple and pear (or whatever fruit, nuts and raisins take your fancy). Then soak it all in some agave syrup or apple juice overnight in a bowl. Eat with soya yoghurt the next morning. Delicious as a snack any time of day, and full of good fibre and protein. Eggs: You can choose to get some proper protein with a boiled egg and toasted rye bread soldiers; scrambled eggs with a bit of spinach and cayenne pepper; or a poached egg on smoked salmon. It makes for great brain food for the day ahead, and it is easy to make. Yoghurt: Just get your hands on a simple probiotic yogurt with nuts and berries. Try it with goji berries and flaxseed. Soak the flaxseeds in water overnight - the combination with probiotic yogurt is great for soothing tummy troubles. This can also make a healthy pudding that you can have after lunch. Green juice: Grab a cold pressed green juice before heading out of home. Oxygenating and full of chlorophyll, pressed juices retain the goodness of their ingredients by savoring the nectar straight from the pulp. Pressing - rather than chopping or blending - doesn't degrade the fruit or vegetable and avoids over heating it and zapping away minerals. Try courgette, broccoli, lemon, apple and fennel for a zesty morning kick.

Washington: Acting US Surgeon General Boris D. Lushniak expanded in his latest report the list of diseases caused by smoking, a warning that comes 50 years after the first official government document that associated tobacco with lung cancer. The expanded list includes liver and colon cancer, type 2 diabetes mellitus, age-related macular degeneration, erectile dysfunction and rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking, according to the report, also causes inflammation and sight loss, is detrimental to the immune system, increases the risk of dying from tuberculosis and of women having an extrauterine pregnancy. What is established in the report 'The Health Consequences of Smoking - 50 Years of Progress', is taken as a reference

US surgeon general links smoking to more diseases

by researchers and health authorities. The document also says that smokers today run a higher risk of developing lung cancer than they did 50 years ago, due to changes in the design and composition of cigarettes. In 1964 the US government concluded for the first time, in a historic and controversial report that changed forever the nation's attitude toward tobacco, that smoking causes life-threatening diseases such as lung cancer. Since then, the number of smokers in the country has dropped significantly from 43 percent of adults in 1965 to 18 percent in 2012. Despite the progress, tobacco is the principal cause of premature deaths in the US, where every year it takes more than 400,000 lives.

New York: Researchers have termed as 'misleading' the commonly-held assumption that taking several medicines for multiple health conditions is hazardous. According to them, polypharmacy - where patients, generally older adults (those aged over 65 years), use multiple medications needs more sophisticated approaches to assess the suitability of each patient's set of medicines. Today, we have more elderly people and also a rising number of people are being diagnosed with multiple health conditions, said lead author Rupert Payne who works at the Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research. Working with colleagues in Nottingham and Glasgow, Payne analyzed data for 180,815 adults with long-term clinical conditions. They found that for patients with only a sin-

Do multiple pills increase hospitalization risk?

gle medical condition, taking 10 or more medications was associated with a more than three-fold increase in an unplanned hospitalization compared to patients who took only one to three medicines. However, patients with six or more medical conditions who used 10 or more medications only increased their chance of admission by 1.5 times - compared to the group taking one to three medicines, said the study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. "This work is highly relevant to the development and assessment of prescribing skills in general practice where the majority of long-term clinical care is undertaken and where doctors often prescribe drugs for long periods of time, said Payne. The research demonstrates the need for more sophisticated and nuanced approaches when measuring the impact of polypharmacy in future clinical research, he added.

Tulsi enters US lab to fight cancer

Washington: The ubiquitous tulsi in your backyard may be a potent weapon against all kinds of cancer, so believes a team of researchers led by an Indian-origin scientist. Tulsi or basil has eugenol that helps fight cancer. Now the research team is genetically modifying tulsi in the lab to produce the anti-cancerous compound in abundance. When you grind basil leaves, a compound called eugenol comes out. If I could make it produce eugenol in higher amounts, that basil plant would serve as a storehouse of that anti-cancerous compound, said Chandrakanth Emani, assistant professor of plant molecular biology at Western Kentucky UniversityOwensboro (WKU-O) in the US. In his lab, Emani and his students are genetically engineering the basil to produce more eugenol, a compound in basil that, in his words, has a very great pharmaceutical value because its shown to control breast cancer. Eugenol, when they put it on a plate where there are

tumor cells, it stopped growth of the tumor cells. That was proof of concept experiment which was done a long time back, said Emani, in a press release issued by the university. The next phase in the research project would be to test the compound as an effective cancer treatment. We want to deal with treating cancer in a holistic way. We want to find one treatment that takes care of many cancers, Emani added. Tulsi's therapeutic properties have been discussed at great length in ancient ayurveda texts in India.

Pakistan should learn from India on polio

"The success was the result of a large base of vaccinators, public charities, UN agencies along with the help of private donors and the central government. "The vaccinators - an army of around two million - receive robust support from religious and community leaders, and reach slums, train stations as well as other remote parts of the country to provide shots to children." The daily said although Pakistan faced "a different and convoluted set of problems", yet "we could learn an important lesson from India". "We do, after all, have an extremist virus that views inoculation campaigners as spies," it said. "For starters, we need our government to solidify more serious and sincere efforts into training and increasing vaccinators. "Secondly, our community leaders along with religious figures should feel morally obligated to eliminate the paranoia surrounding polio programs." In a clear reference to the 2011 killing of Osama bin Laden, the editorial said: "Yes, a vaccination program was faked once but that does not constitute as the norm but a deeply unfortunate exception." A Pakistani doctor carried out a fake vaccination program in Abbottabad where bin Laden lived apparently at the suggestion of the American CIA. The doctor is now jailed in Pakistan. The Nation said Pakistan was the only polio-endemic country that had seen an increasing number of polio cases -- from 58 in 2012 to 83 in 2013.

After 3 years of resounding success involving only one case of polio, India is now polio free. Seen in the picture, President Pranab Mukherjee administering polio drops to a child at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday.

Islamabad: A newspaper Thursday said lessons should be learnt from India if Pakistan wants to eradicate polio. In an editorial, The Nation saluted the efforts undertaken by both official and non-official agencies in India to overcome the polio virus. "After three years of resounding success involving only one case of polio, India recently established itself as the worlds most recent country to have eradicated the crippling polio virus," it said.

eshawar in Pakistan had the largest number of polio cases in the world in 2013. This was revealed by World Health Organization (WHO) in a global analysis for polio cases on 17 January 2014. WHO further said that Pakistan is the only polioendemic country which reported more polio cases in 2013 than in 2012. Pakistan reported 83 cases in 2013 compared to 58 cases in 2012. In 2013, 369 cases were reported worldwide. In Pakistan, 59 cases were from Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), 10 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and seven each from Punjab and Sindh. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, of which Peshawar is the capital and adjoining tribal districts, has been found to be the polio hotspot in Pakistan.

Peshawar, largest reservoir of polio in world: WHO

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

IN REMEMBRANCE

January 25-31, 2014

25

Sen: The quintessential

Syedna: Symbol of piety,

enigma despite 59 films

Kolkata: Bengali celluloid queen Suchitra Sen captivated generations with her beauty, elegance and portrayal of myriad characters, yet remained an enigma despite over three decades of self-imposed reclusion that prompted constant parallels with Hollywood icon Greta Garbo. In a 26-year career with 59 films, the "Mahanayika" (greatest heroine) worked with Bengal's biggest matinee idol Uttam Kumar to usher in the golden era of Bengali cinema. She also came up with memorable performances in a number of Hindi movies like "Devdas", "Mamta", "Musafir", "Bombai Ka Babu" and "Aandhi". Sen's seductive appeal accentuated by her intense and dreamy eyes, subtle gestures, a bewitching smile as also the uniquely romantic way she used her eyes and face in close-up frames floored countless male fans cutting across age and time barriers. Among the Bengali speaking people, both in India and Bangladesh as also across the world, Sen's popularity remains unmatched. The songs she lipped are still a rage, and she continues to be the reference point for budding actresses, even though her last movie appearance came way back in the 1978 release "Pronoy Pasha". Acclaimed British film critic Derek Malcolm once said: "She was very, very beautiful. She had this 'still' quality. She did not need to do a lot of 'acting'."

peace for Dawoodi Bohras

Mumbai: He was credited with guiding the 1.20 million strong Dawoodi Bohra community out of the shadows - and leading it on to the stage of modernity and prosperity. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, the spiritual and temporal head of the Dawoodi Bohra Muslims, provided a dynamic leadership to the largely business community which claims 100 percent literacy. He was known for insightful teachings. Revered as the 52nd Dai-al-Mutlaq (direct in the line of Prophet Mohammed) by the Bohras, the Syedna's love for environment, flora and fauna was legendary. He was also an Arabic scholar. Born in Surat in Gujarat, the Syedna was educated by his illustrious father, the late Syedna Taher Saifuddin. Syedna Taher Saifuddin personally trained the future Syedna and later affirmed him as his successor. At age 53, Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin succeeded his father in 1965, heralding a new era for the Bohra community. Among his major contributions was to supervise and support the community's literacy efforts through 400 educational institutions in the world to impart religious, spiritual and secular education. The pride of place belongs to the over two centuries old Arabic university, Al-Jamiah Al-Saifiah Arabic Academy in Surat, and its new campus built by the Syedna in Karachi in 1983. Nurturing deep interest in secular studies, the Syedna always stressed on scientific and religious education. The result? The community produced thousands of professionals and academics. He exhorted his followers to conduct businesses combining mercantile and Islamic principles. few years ago, the Syedna established the Burhaniyah Business Counselling Centre in Mumbai to provide modern business solutions. The Syedna strongly believed in giving back to nature through ecological conservation programmes and preventing environmental degradation. At a macro-level, the Syedna took direct interest in the redevelopment of old, dilapidated buildings housing over 4,000 Dawoodi Bohra families in a small chunk of Bhendi Bazaar in south Mumbai. A symbolic pride is the Raudat Tahera in Mumbai, the marble mausoleum of the Syedna's father where the entire Quran is inscribed on the inner white walls in letters of gold and precious stones.

Actor Suchitra Sen's daughter Moon Moon Sen pays tribute at Keoratola Crematorium in Kolkata. (Inset) Suchitra Sen

However, Sen did give strong but restrained performances in most of the 52 Bengali and seven Hindi films she featured in, and was the second Indian actress to get an international award after Nargis' win at Karlovy Vary for "Mother India". Her excellent depiction of the trauma of a woman unable to hold on to her marriage in "Saat Pake Bandha" won her the Silver Prize for best actress at the 1963 Moscow International Film Festival. Interestingly, many of her greatest performances came in films where she was paired opposite heroes other than Uttam Kumar. If it was Soumitra Chattejree in "Saat Pake Bandha", in "Uttar Falguni", in which Sen did the double role of a courtesan and her lawyer daughter, the male lead was Bikash

Roy. Again in "Deep Jele Jai", she played a nurse trying to cure the mentally ill hero played by Basanta Chowdhury. "Hospital" had Ashok Kumar as the hero. Sen made a well-appreciated debut in Hindi films with Bimal Roy's "Devdas" in 1955 as the elegant Paro opposite Dilip Kumar's Devdas. Despite several remakes, Sen's Paro reigns supreme. Added to her charm was her boldness, evident in the hit "Aandhi" (1975), where her character modelled on former prime minister Indira Gandhi fetched her a National Award. She even turned down in 2005 the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honour in Indian cinema, as she would have had to collect it in person from the president.

The funeral procession of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, the spiritual and temporal head of the Dawoodi Bohra Muslims. (Inset) Syedna Burhanuddin

A. Nageswara Rao: Titan of Telugu cinema

Rao's journey, which lasted over seven decades, could very well make an interesting story of a film. Nageswara Rao, who as a youngster walked bare foot in Gudivada in Krishna district of coastal Andhra, rose to the dizzy heights of stardom and became a symbol of the Telugu film industry, or Tollywood as it is popularly called sometimes. ANR, as fans fondly called him, died of cancer at a private hospital here in the early hours of Wednesday, plunging the industry into gloom. He was 89 and is survived by three daughters and two sons, including popular actor Nagarjuna. ANR was the last of the most popular first generation actors of Telugu cinema and was considered one of the two all-time greats of Telugu cinema, the other being N.T. Rama Rao (NTR) who died in 1996. Rao's was truly a rags-to-riches story. He made his cinematic debut in 1941 Telugu film "Dharmapatni" with a brief role, and in 1944 he was picked up from the platform of Bezawada (now Vijayawada) railway station and signed on to play the lead role in Telugu drama "Sitarama Jananam". While Rao will be remembered for many wonderful films such as "Devadasu", "Mayabazar", "Dr. Chakravarthy" and "Muga Manasulu", "Sudigundaalu", "Antastulu" and "Meghasandesam", Rao's best work was in "Batasari" and "Devadasu". In his 74-year long illustrious career, he starred in about 235 Telugu films, besides 20 Tamil and one Hindi. Some of his best Tamil films include "Anbumagan", "Kanal Neer" and "Pen Manam". He was instrumental in setting up one of the biggest studios in India. Named after his late wife, Annapurna Studios will remain the thespian's biggest gift to the Indian cinema. Rao's last film was Telugu family drama "Manam" with son Nagarjuna and grandson Naga Chaitanya. The film is slated for release this year.

Thespian actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao

Hyderabad: From a poor farmer's son to one of the most loved and respected actors of Indian cinema, Akkineni Nageswara

26

January 25-31, 2014

SELF HELP

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

What every small business needs What to know about your employersponsored benefits to know this year E F
or small businesses, adapting to the changing times is crucial. Periodically, its important to review whats working and where theres room to transform. The new year is a blank slate for small businesses, offering the opportunity to streamline everything from connecting with customers to cash flow management, says Tim Carroll, vice president of small business engagement at Deluxe Corporation. With this in mind, here are resolutions for small businesses to succeed in 2014. Connect with Customers Nothing beats word-ofmouth recommendations. Thanks to new digital technologies and social media, its easier than ever to share these kudos. In todays digital world, you can reach millions of eyes simultaneously. The key is to also get customers to engage with you and share your story with others, points out Carroll. You dont have to be a social media maven to make the most of your digital presence. Take a look at other websites and incorporate appealing aspects of these on your website. Use the space to highlight successes. But dont very so often, its important to review the benefits offered through your employer. With the cost of health care continuing to rise, health care reform is changing the insurance landscape and often the benefits employers provide. And with these changes, consumers face added costs and new decision-making responsibilities. In fact, in addition to healthcare decisions, fourfifths of employers have already adopted voluntary benefits to provide employees with new nonmedical benefit choices, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute. Employers once selected and paid for a specific set of nonmedical benefits for their employees, such as shortterm and long-term disability, dental, and term life insurance, says Rob Grubka, president, Group Protection at Lincoln Financial Group. Today, thats changing; decisions and funding of healthcare and many nonmedical benefits are now in the hands of the employees themselves. If youre a bit confused by the details, here are some simple things to consider when choosing your benefits: Health insurance coverage is certainly a valuable benefit, but dont overlook how other important benefits such as dental care, vision coverage, disability insurance, life insurance and critical illness insurance also play a big role in protecting your financial future. Even if your employer doesn`t contribute toward the premium cost, these can be more cost effective and you may be able to conveniently pay premiums via pre-tax payroll deduction if you purchase them at work. Youll likely need more protection than just medical, and the majority of employers do sponsor other options. So review your enrollment materials to determine whats being offered. Figure out your biggest risks today and make protecting them a priority. If youre healthy, single, and relatively young, you have different needs than someone who is married with three kids in high school. A lot of companies and benefits providers have tools, videos and even games on their websites to help make understanding benefits easy. Every year you should consider your life changes and re-evaluate your needs. Whether youre about to walk down the aisle, expand your family, or buy your first home, protecting your assets with the right kinds and amounts of insurance coverage is key. It's the important things in life that are worth protecting. Insurance benefits offered in your workplace play a role in how you plan for that protection. Be sure to make informed choices.

overlook more traditional communications. A recent survey found that 86 percent of consumers preferred receiving customer appreciation gifts including thank you cards through traditional rather than online methods. Get Noticed Online A website can be a powerful marketing and sales tool. But if nobody visits, its a virtual ghost town. Your website needs to be indexed properly to show up high in search engine results. According to researchers, more than half of online shoppers dont go past the first two pages of search results. This is why Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is critical. Optimize your website for keywords and phrases your customers are searching for online.

Think Ahead Dont get caught off guard by annual events that matter to your business. For example, its never too early to think about holiday marketing. Plan now to maximize sales when it matters. New payment technologies can streamline logistics and keep you in complete control of the payment process. Prevent Identity Theft Identity theft and fraud are increasing, and businesses -like individuals -- are at risk. Before giving out confidential information, confirm how it will be used or shared. It is crucial to have a contingency plan in place prior to ID theft or fraud. Services like EZShield Business Identity Restoration can help businesses quickly recover to pre-incident status.

Time saving tips to maintain your home

New tips for communicating with your kids

n todays digital world, connecting with your children goes beyond face-to-face communication. While nothing beats inperson quality time, on-the-go lifestyles dont always allow for it. But physical distance when you or your kids are out of the house shouldnt present too much of a communication barrier between parents and kids, say the experts. These days, most children are fairly comfortable using communication technologies. Capitalizing on your childrens tech prowess can help you stay connected, says Dr. Eric Klopfer, Learning Expert for VTech, a maker of age-appropriate and developmental stagebased electronic learning products for children. Whether youre at the office, a frequent business traveler or simply want to keep in touch with your kids while theyre away from home, Klopfer says there are a few things to keep in mind when communicating with your children electronically. Its crucial to find technologies that are ageappropriate, safe and easy-to-use. Many messaging services are restricted to those over the age of 13. And messaging services with fewer restrictions can present a hassle for parents who want to ensure that kids are only corresponding with approved contacts. Luckily, emerging technologies designed for a younger audience are addressing these concerns. For example, VTech Kid Connect, a

uring the cooler months, you likely are spending more time indoors. So having a clean, cozy home is important. And making the process smooth and easy can help you focus on family, friends and the spirit of the season. Here are some winter maintenance tips that will save you time and energy: Organized House When youre expecting company, youll want the house to be clean and in tip top order. De-clutter closets by giving away unneeded items. While all the items are out, vacuum the floor and clean the baseboards. Clean appliances, counters, cabinets, tables and chairs. Scrub and sanitize sinks, countertops and backsplashes. Clean your range top and refrigerator top and exterior, as well as inside and outside your microwave. And wash those floors! Or for a thorough, customized deep clean of your home, and to cross a major chore off your to-do list, consider using a professional service such as Merry Maids, that can help ensure no small detail is overlooked. Information can be found at www.MerryMaids.com. Peace of Mind Be sure your heating system and appliances are in proper working order all winter long -- the last thing youll want is a broken heater during the cooler months. Feel more confident in your repair or replacement with a home warranty that covers many of the appliances and system components found in most homes.

For example, American Home Shield provides service contracts on such system components and appliances as plumbing, water heaters, refrigerators and dishwashers. If something breaks, your budget wont feel as big a pinch as a repair or replacement. Lawn Care Your lawn makes a first impression, especially around the holidays when attention is called to your homes exterior. Boost curb appeal by taking great care of your yard year-round. For example, corrective pruning can prevent dead or overgrown plants from detracting from your homes cheery personality. It can also enhance a plants growth for the coming spring. Core aeration will help your lawn breathe and strengthen roots. Pest Control It may be cooler outside, but pest control should be a year-round concern. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal exterior doors, cracks, and openings around pipes and utility lines. Youll not only improve your homes energy efficiency but youll prevent pests from entering your home.

new communication app for the companys childrens learning tablet, InnoTab 3S, features tablet-to-mobile capabilities, making staying in touch both safe and easy. It eliminates the need for setting up a complicated restriction system, which can be a big relief for parents questioning the safety of their kids online. For parents skeptical about the impact that texting and electronic messaging will have on childrens written communication skills, Klopfer assures that with care, you can use the technology to actually improve literacy. Encourage kids to develop their writing skills while communicating with you electronically by paying attention to their spelling and grammar. And you can set a good example by avoiding excessive acronyms and emoticons, and including great vocabulary words into messages. It may seem paradoxical, but in this fastpaced, tech-driven age, keeping kids and parents connected is getting easier.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

LIFESTYLE

January 25-31, 2014

27

New Delhi: Thailand tops the chart as the favorite destination for Indian travelers for the second consecutive year while the most sought after Indian destination for international tourists is the national capital, said a survey. The recent Hotel Price Index report by Hotels.com has revealed that in 2013 Bangkok topped as the Indians' favorite city apart from Pattaya and Phuket in Thailand, which are on seventh and eighth position on the list, said a statement. Bangkok secured the number one spot in 2012 as well. In 2013, Dubai was on number two, Singapore on third, London

Thailand most preferred foreign destination for Indians

got the fourth spot and Hong Kong rounded up the top five. The favorite Indian destinations among international travelers continues to be the capital followed by Mumbai, Goa, Bangalore, Chennai and Jaipur. Agra in Uttar Pradesh - known for Taj Mahal - dropped two spots down and landed on ninth position in 2013.

London: Hot Yoga is making waves in the fitness world, not because it is fun, but also because it's a great exercise. Expert says that 50-minute classes can help in achieving a healthy body, if done religiously. Michele Pernetta, a known yoga teacher, says Hot Yoga means exercising in a hot room. "It originally was Bikram Yoga (started by Bikram Choudhury). Then other people started teaching different styles in a hot room, everything from Bikram Yoga, Power Yoga, to Ashtanga or a personal mix from a teacher who may or may not be qualified to teach in hot conditions. So the term really just means you are doing yoga in a hot room," said Pernetta. She also says that there are less chances of injuries in such yoga as the heat allows you to press further into the poses as your muscles and joints are at their optimum temperature. "This is beneficial as deeper stretching brings more blood and oxygen to your body. You detoxify through sweating. The skin is the largest organ of the body and research has shown that toxins such as unwanted metals and salts are eliminated through sweating. "It also makes it much easier to perform the poses as you feel loose and comfortable. People also find the heat cathartic. It has the effect of relaxing you on Something brand new: Yes, you just bought it and are keen to wear it, but you definitely haven't ironed it out. Maybe your new skirt flies up when you walk or your new shoes give you blisters. All of these problems aren't ones you want to face while you're trying to impress someone new. A head scarf: It requires way too much readjusting and will most likely make your date wonder whether you have a headache or something. Anything out of the ordinary: If you're a girl who normally wears lip balm and mascara, a full face of make-up on the first date is misleading. If date one leads to date two and three, you're not going to continue to apply make-up all the time. A band T-shirt of a band you don't listen to: It will most likely result in some pretty awkward conversation.

Hot Yoga: The latest fad in health world

a deep level, allowing you to go into places you couldnt normally reach, releasing mental and emotional stresses you dont normally get the opportunity to look at in normal daily life, said the expert. However, while opting for Hot Yoga, diet has to be monitored. I believe the ayurvedic diet system is the best, as there are three main body types and diets, and what is good for one person, is not good for another, said Pernetta. Have a proper meal with protein. Eating less sugar and carbohydrate and more vegetables and good fats such as coconut oil, ghee, cold pressed olive oil, organic food and protein, she added.

Smokers justify actions as social act: Research

Fashion, beauty items to be avoided on first date

New York: Getting ready for your first date? Avoid things like new dress and head scarf. There are a few items that should never be worn on a first date, reports huffingtonpost.com.

Night shifts, jet leg disrupt rhythm of genes

London: Smokers are justifying their habit by labeling it as a social activity, and claiming they are nothing more than a social smoker, says a new research. The research conducted by The Cooperative Pharmacy reveals that a quarter of smokers are in denial because of the stigma associated with it and now only class themselves as social smokers. In reality though, over a third of these are smoking between 6-20 cigarettes a day. The study also revealed smokers' willingness to openly disregard the law by lighting up in prohibited areas, reports femalefirst.co.uk. The smoking ban in public places has had a major effect on the health of the nation with a significant number of people giving up, but many smokers are convincing themselves that they are consuming less tobacco than they actually are by classing their habit as a social one, said Catherine Cox, primary care manager from The Co-operative Pharmacy. People see it as more acceptable to be social smoker than admitting they regularly light up each day, even though our research shows that this is the case, added Cox. The research also says that three in five smokers had previously tried to give up and women were more likely to have tried to quit than men (63 percent compared to 57 percent). Around one in six of those who had tried to quit smoking succeeded for over a year before being tempted into lighting up again.

Popular diets followed by celebrities

London: Instead of envying celebrities like Beyonce Knowles, Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus for their perfect figures, check your diet as the weight loss trick lies in what you eat. Staying slim and toned is a full time job for many celebrities. Here's what these stars eat to stay in shape, reports dailystar.co.uk: * Vegan diet: A vegan diet is completely free of any animal products and animal by-products like honey, eggs, milk and cheese. Celebrities like Jay-Z, Beyonce Knowles, Alicia Silverstone and Natalie Portman follow it. * Gluten-free diet: It means a menu with no gluten, which is a protein contained in certain grains, including wheat, and barley. It is a protein that many people may be sensitive to. Sometimes it causes bloating, headaches or constipation. Celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga and Ryan Phillipe like to eat without the protein. * DIY juicing: Juicing involves putting fruits and vegetables through a machine which literally just produces the juice. These juices ideally are 90 percent vegetable based rather than fruit as the latter contains fruit sugar called fructose. Fructose effects blood sugar levels and is linked to weight gain if a person has lots of it in their diet. Miranda Kerr and Nicole Ritchie are some of the stars who drink it to stay fit.

London: For those who work in night shifts or miss on sleep owing to heavy air travel, it is time to set the clock right to get rhythm of your genes back in shape. A University of Surrey study has found that the daily rhythms of our genes are disrupted when sleep times shift. This research may help us understand the negative health outcomes associated with shift work, jet lag and other conditions in which the rhythms of our genes are disrupted, said professor Derk-Jan Dijk from the sleep research center at University of Surrey, England. Researchers placed 22 participants on a 28-hour day in a controlled environment without a natural light-dark cycle. As a result, their sleep-wake cycle was delayed by four hours each day. The team then collected blood samples to measure the participants' rhythms of gene expression. During this disruption of sleep timing, there was a sixfold reduction in the number of genes that displayed a circadian rhythm (internal body clock with 24-hour cycle), said the study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Over 97 percent of rhythmic genes became out of sync with mistimed sleep and this really explains why we feel so bad during jet lag, or if we have to work irregular shifts, said co-author Simon Archer from the school of biosciences and medicine. The study also revealed which genes may be regulated by sleep-wake cycles and which are regulated by central body clocks. This finding provides new clues about sleep's function as separate from the circadian clock. The results also imply that sleep-wake schedules can be used to influence rhythmicity in many biological processes, which may be very relevant for conditions in which our body clocks are altered, such as in aging, added professor Derk-Jan Dijk.

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January 25-31, 2014

HUMOR

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Funny Bone by Nury Vittachi

Woman claims to be descendent of monkey god

A
woman in China claims to be the great-great-great-etc granddaughter of the Monkey King. She even has a lock of the divine ape's hair as proof. Scientists are running tests on it. I read this article on an official Mainland China news website with great interest. Who knew it was even possible to be a descendant of a fictional character? The next time I fill in a form in China, I shall say that Snow White was my mother and the Hulk was my dad. Or perhaps I claim to be a direct descendant of the cool talking rock from the 1792 Chinese classic Dream of the Red Chamber. By coincidence this columnist has just finished writing a book about the Monkey King. The legend came about by accident. A Chinese monk came back from India in 645 AD with a report about Hindu monkey god Hanuman. Mishearing him, his friends thought he had toured India with a magic talking monkey, and that version was immortalized in the 1592 AD fairy tale Journey to the West. I was impressed that scientists from Fudan University in Shanghai agreed to take the woman's lock of monkey hair to analyze. They will no doubt compare its DNA with the DNA of all the other magic talking monkey gods they have on file. Anyway, the internet community in China believes her story; so it must be true. And let's not forget that China is the place where people recently campaigned to have Sun Yat-sen elected to power, despite the fact that had he been alive, he would have been well into his second century. It's funny how many people believe in fictional characters. My wife used to live around the corner from 221B Baker Street in London and told me the people there (a bank) get loads of letters for him. They probably write back saying: "Sherlock can't take your case right now because he is frolicking with his friends Cinderella and Superman in Cloud Cuckoo Land which is probably where you should be too." When I asked a psychologist for a comment, she pointed me to a chat-room for shy people called socialanxietysupport.com. In one post, a Singaporean woman named Nee says she has noticed that fictional people are sexier-looking than real people. Shou Nagatsuki of Nagano agreed, posting: "I find 2D anime boys hot. This may be true, Nagatsuki, but it strikes me that if you marry a 2D boy, you may find he has shortcom-

ings in the adequacy department when it comes to conjugal relations. Just saying. US female Tahuti, 37, then joined in the conversation to explain that these days she only flirts with fictional people. "They're safe," she writes. "And they don't let you down." Hmm, I wonder how many cats this woman has? a) Two? b) 20? c) Over 100? In the past, Chinese border officials used to demand every visitor

fill in a health form, which an official would take without crosschecking against your passport. I often gave the names of fictional characters or celebrities. I've been the Pope, Donald Duck, all the four Beatles and Mickey Mouse. "Welcome to China, Mr Mouse." "I am delighted to visit your wonderful country, Mr Servile Peon." Smiles all round. Those were the days.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

by Mahendra Shah
Mahendra Shah is an architect by education, entrepreneur by profession, artist and humorist, cartoonist and writer by hobby. He has been recording the plight of the immigrant Indians for the past many years in his cartoons. Hailing from Gujarat, he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

ASTROLOGY

January 25-31, 2014

29

By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma

Stars Foretell: January 25-31, 2014
ARIES: High time to know your full potentials to enhance career prospects. You will be at the limelight in a social gathering provided you attend. You are likely to make good money, but the rise in expenses could make it difficult to save. Chances of your love life turning into life-long bond are high on the card. Dont forget to use your energy to help someone in distress to benefit both. If you are planning a vacation, be sure to consider your family and friends. Deals have to be made according the area and location, not the price. You are likely to realise the importance of reaching out to people. TAURUS: Timely help of associates will not only pass difficult times at work but also help in regaining professional edge. Shopping with family members will be highly pleasurable and exciting. A sudden inflow of funds will take care of your bills and immediate expenses. Romantic entanglement would add spice to your happiness. A continuous positive thinking gets rewarded as you succeed in whatever you do. Travel for fun and pleasure is what you demand. Buying cheap property in the right location can provide you triple gain annually. Circumstances are likely to make you friendly with influential people. GEMINI: A promising week to start a new venture in partnership. All are likely to be benefited. Help from family members would take care of your needs. Monetary position is likely to improve on recovering of delayed payments. Enjoying the company of partner in a lively restaurant would bring immense romantic pleasure. Creative hobbies are likely to keep you relaxed. Small journey with your office colleagues will be interesting. Your ability to invest in real estate might get interrupted. You need to maintain a distance from gossip & rumours. CANCER: Lack of confidence could slip promising career enhancement opportunities from your hands. You will be the star of attraction of familys gettogether. You would be taken for a ride if you behave too generous in financial matters. Exciting week as your long pending wait for affirmation is going to materialize. You are likely to suffer from stress & tensions during this week. Traveling at time is what you dont expect from yourself. Investing in property business sounds very appealing. Trusting to a limit in friendship would augur well for future. LEO: Hard work of the past brings rich dividends. However continue enhancing your skills/adopt techniques for further development. Have fun in the company of relatives. The secret mantra of earning your profits: invest wisely. Time now to prepare yourself for the magic moment on falling in love. With a positive outlook & confidence, you succeed in impressing people around you. Travel plan with a colleague might lead to a new relationship. Banks love to finance those, who invest in properties which are underdevelopment. You succeed in maintaining a distance from temptations. VIRGO: Your technical expertise gives a decisive edge over competitors at work. Entertainment will be a real fun provided all the members of the family join you. This week instead of wasting time, better to get involved in something to improve your financial position. Spending time with your beloved/lover is very necessary for you. Control your negative emotions to save your health. Your boss may ask you for your company to a friends party. Buying cheap property can be problematic for you regarding its resale. Restrain yourself from spreading false rumours about others. LIBRA: Dedication & loyalty at work would bring desired results. You will enjoy the time spent with family members and friends. Investment in antiques & jewelry brings monetary gains and improvement in financial position. The presence of love would make you feel life meaningful. Mental alertness would enable to solve a tricky problem. Small picnic organized by your company is good to change your mood. A good deal on commercial property might occur. Taking independent decisions would immensely benefit. SCORPIO: Dont forget to devote time on acquiring new technical skills to enhance career prospects. A week for renewal of bonds and family ties. You will make good money, but dont let it slip through your fingers. Romance is just round the corner. Better to prepare yourself to grab it. Time for Hypertension patients to change their eating habits. You will have to go out of routine work to enjoy your vacation. Valuation is must before you purchase a plot. Make sure you follow all traffic rules, otherwise you might lend yourself in some serious problem. SAGITTARIUS: You need to make full use of your aspirations, supportive nature and open mindedness at work. An auspicious week for family functions and important ceremonies. Investment is recommended but after a proper advice/guidance. L affair could create some personal problems. Although soar throat would not come in the way of routine schedule, even then you must take some herbal treatments to get immediate relief. You should leave fire arms at home when traveling. There are chances of disputes among the relatives regarding ancestral property. Chances of ruining reputation on indulging in too much talking without purpose are high. CAPRICORN: A test of your ability to handle pressurised situations as you are entrusted with a special assignment. Your generous behaviour would enable to enjoy some lovely moments with family. Long pending arrears and dues will finally be recovered. Beware as someone might flatter you with his/her wit & charm to enjoy your company. Health secret for you: mental enemies lower the disease-resisting power of the body therefore, do not allow any unwanted thoughts to come in your mind. Official journeys prove to be more fruitful for you. There might be a chance of acquiring a plot from your closed relative. A desire to do things differently will develop innovative style. AQUARIUS :Negligence at professional front would backfire. Property dispute might erupt causing mental tension to all at family front. Investment without proper advice/guidance will bring financial losses. Without the company of beloved/lover you are likely to feel as blank as a tree in autumn. A week when fast changing events could leave you confused & tired. Traveling for long can be stressful and tedious. Be careful as your long term investment plans are going to face some legal issues. You find close companions somewhat hostile. PISCES: If possible, devote time and professional acumen to achieve the desired results. If possible undertake the projects that would benefit the whole family. Put your extra money at a safer place promising to return you on time. Love life would blossom provided you pay heed to it. You need to take advantage of your enormous confidence to make new contacts and friends. Planning a vacation, keep an eye on your expenditure before you travel. Investment on apartments to be made according the area and not on the cost. You need to take extra care of luggage while travelling.

Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874 Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, 2648 9899 psharma@premastrologer.com; www.premastrologer.com

Annual Predictions: For those born in this week

25th January, 14 Ruled planet: Neptune Ruled by no: 7 Traits in you: Being number 7, you are an intelligent, independent and kind hearted person. You know how to play with words. Using your this quality you will easily impress people around you. Your supportive nature makes you famous in your group. justice. You love to be a leader in a group and can easily sense positive and negative energies coming from the people around you. This year you might go for a foreign trip, which would be both pleasureable and rewarding. Health this year: This year try to start your day with jogging and make it an essential part of your daily routine. It would help you in being in a very good shape. Moreover in case of any ailment medicines will only effect when you keep yourself physically fit. Finance this year: This year your flourishing business would bring rich dividends. The need of the hour is that you invest in new business projects individually to regain higher returns. You might also lend loans to someone, which will be favourable to you. Career this year: This year you will be able to pursue many subjects, rather than confine yourself to any one. Your honesty and loyalty, towards your work, will impress your seniors. Those of you, who are in a teaching line, will do well, professionally. Your skills and strong determination will bring applaud for you. Romance this year: This year if you are looking for a partner, then be ready to meet a dazzling beauty/handsome guy who has the power to mesmerise you. However before taking any initiatives make sure that he/she is the right person and you are not under the spell of infatuation. Lucky month: August, November, March and April Lucky colors :All shades of green, white and yellow. 26th January, 14 Ruled planet: Saturn Ruled by no: 8 Traits in you: Being number 8, you are a person who loves challenges in life and always come out as a winner which ever task you take in hand. You are very practical, systematic and friendly person who is always there to help needy people. You determination and sincerity at work will fetch you both good finances and respect in society. Although you don't like anyone assisting you, but when you do any mistakes, you accept them easily and learn not to repeat it again. Health this year: This year you will start your day with a positive attitude and a preventive care, which would bring immense relief from your ailments. It will be in your interest to continue to enable yourself to enjoy a healthy life. Finance this year: This year monetary gains in the form of shares dividend will definitely improve your financial health. Investing it for further income would not be a prudent option. Rather spend it in purchasing a new home appliance, which would be a better investment. Career this year: You are full of energy and enthusiasm, and would like to undertake big projects. In the coming year, you will have to give up your lethargic tendency, if you have to achieve success in the projects you have taken in hands. You will get many opportunities, and it is up to you, how much advantage you can take of these opportunities. Romance this year: You will go all out to give the best to your family members. You do not like to reveal your sentiments and emotions, even to your loved ones. Sometimes, this creates misunderstandings. Sp, try to express your love and emotions, this will do wonders for you. You are easily attracted towards the opposite sex. Lucky month: May, November, January and April Lucky colors: Black, dark blue and purple. 27th January, 14 Ruled planet: Mars Ruled by no: 9 Traits in you: Being number 9, you are one of the most energetic, courageous and brilliant person, who successfully completes the work taken in hand. You can be called cleanliness freak person. You always help those who need your help. You love to be in the company of those people who are intellignet and sophisticated. You are good at evaluating any situation and work accordingly. For you emotional happiness is more important than material happiness. Being focused in life, you climb the ladder of success. Health this year: This year make sure you make your mind receptive to all the good things you will see in your environment. To motivate yourself join some yoga or aerobics classes. Keep your smile going which would work like a trouble-shooter against depression. Finance this year: This year you need to reinvent your business strategies to gain new opportunities. Taking advice from friends would allow you to spend the money on some lucrative projects. Initiate any action only after making sure that this will be profitable to you. Career this year: This year your imagination and new ideas will catch the attention of your seniors, who will be impressed with your creativity. You might also try to dominate over others, by imposing your views on your colleagues. This might upset them, so be careful towards your attitude. Romance this year: In love matters, you will have to be very careful this year. Take a step forward, only when you are sure of a positive response from the other end. A little care for the sentiments of your love partner or your spouse, will do wonders to bring harmony and peace in your married life. Lucky month: August, December and February Lucky colors:All shades of reds, Crimson, rose and maroon. 28th January, 14 Ruled planet: Sun Ruled by no: 1 Traits in you: Being number 1, you are a person who loves originality in whatever work you do. By nature you are an authoritative person and so you always take charge of things which also makes you responsible person. If you take some task in hand, you are determined to finish it. You are very soft spoken and kind hearted person. Health this year: This year your health will generally remain fine but don't take it for granted. Avoid eating exposed food and try not to indulgence in negative thinking, as this might hamper your physical and mental health. Finance this year: Loan from bank for short-term investment will prove beneficial. If possible, invest the money in reputed firms to yield good returns. Carelessness on your part could cost, so go through all the documents carefully before taking a lone. Career this year: This year be assured that you will go all out to achieve, what you want to. You will achieve prosperity in whatever projects you take in hand. You will be able to complete these projects with full sincerity and dedication. Romance this year: You are unable to express your emotions, and keep your feelings to yourself. But this year don't hesitate in expressing yourself, else someone else will tak your love away from you. Try to mingle more freely with your special friend. Lucky month: May, August, September and December Lucky colors: Orange, gold, yellow, copper, bronze and brown. 29th January, 14 Ruled planet: Moon Ruled by no: 2 Traits in you: Being number 2, you are a person with high confidence, imagination and the one who is always ready to help others. Anyone can trust you blindly as you are very balanced person in nature. Though you are reserved personality, but when it comes to do some task, you are independent and complete your work with full determination and honesty. Health this year: This is a high time for you to realise that its useless to unnecessarily magnify the problems. I onlyt takes out the juice of life and leaves us dry. Try tobe positive in life. You will have to control your moody nature, to enjoy good mental and physical health. Finance this year: You will be blessed with good fortune and good money this year. Spending money on entertainment would bring unlimited joy. However it would be in your interest to control your tendency to live for the day. You will make some serious efforts to generate extra income to balance budget. Career this year: Your ability to think deeply and then take any action, will be an asset for you in the coming year. Leadership qualities of business managers will come to test. You are likely to establish yourself a good manager as you have art to manage people and situation without any problem. Romance this year: If you are in love then don't forget that you should spend quality time in understanding each other. Keep in mind that love is a matter of heart and is a given expression between two souls. You will see your love flourish this year and will have maturity in your romance. Lucky month: August, November and April Lucky colors: Green, lavender, cream and white. 30th January, 14 Ruled planet: Jupiter Ruled by no: 3 Traits in you: Being number 3, you are confident, ambitious and independent person who loves to work with optimistic attitude. You are a born leader, and you are always appreciated for your work, whether it is at home or work place. Your efforts are always sincere and thats why you balance your personal and professional life very smoothly. Health this year: This year your great sense of humour would help you in keeping youeself happy. If possible, make others realise to develop this skill by making them understand that happiness does not lie in possession of thing but is inside of us. Seeing peole happy, will make you happy. Finance this year: Financially, it will be a good year, for most of you. If interested in putting money on stock exchange transactions, discuss the matter with an expert. Their guidance would help you to make the best investment. However avoid a middleman in transaction because it could impinge on your profits. Some of you can expect to inherit property from your ancestors. Career this year: Your vivid imagination and a huge creative sense will make you a successful as a writer, actor or a musician. Those of you in the teaching and the writing line, could expect to see success, in whatever project you undertake, in the coming year. You will travel to distant lands in the coming year. Romance this year: This year you will be enjoying your love life to the fullest. You and your partner will understand each-other's need and would pay attention to each other's interest. Those who want to get married, will get hitched this year. If you are looking for a love partner, then you might find the person of your dream. Lucky month: July, December and March Lucky colors: Pink, Mauve, violet and purple. 31st January, 14 Ruled planet: Uranus Ruled by no: 4 Traits in you: Being number 4, you are a person who likes to take responsibilty and do your work with full dedication and honesty. You are a very down to earth person with religious beliefs. This year you might plan to go for a piligrimage. Sometimes you become bossy, jealous or stubborn, which you should avoid to lead a happy life with smiling people around you. Health this year: Health of a person depends on one's thinking. Remember that one's thinking has reflection on one's body. If we think positively we will enjoy a sound health, whereas negative thinking will only put adverse affects on our body. Finance this year: The coming year, will be financially good for most of you. With your will power and practical attitude, you will be able to make the most of the opportunities which come your way, giving you monetary gains. Career this year: Realistic and with a very practical approach towards life, most of you are successful in your professional front. The coming year, will see you achieve new heights of excellence, in whatever new project you take in hand. Romance this year: This year don't allow your personal problems creep into your romantic affair. Always remember that love is a given expression between two partners. So just enjoy each other's company. If you are already married, then take some time out from your busy schedule to be with your soulmate. Lucky month: June, August and May Lucky colors: Pink, Mauve, violet and purple.

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January 25-31, 2014

SPIRITUAL AWARENESS

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Freedom from strife

solutions to difficult problems by looking at them from a totally different perspective. One day Akbar wanted to test his advisors, so he presented them with a puzzle. He took a stick and drew a line in the sand. He asked the advisors to try to shorten the line without erasing any part of it. Each counselor took a turn, but all were stumped. They could not figure out how to make it shorter. Finally, Birbal came forward, took the stick, and carefully drew a line next to the one the emperor had drawn but Birbal made his line longer. By drawing the second line longer, it made the original one look shorter. The solution to finding peace requires us to look at the problem from a new perspective. We cannot change the nature of the world or its problems, but we can add a new dimension to life that will give us peace. Lasting peace can be found within us. Enlightened luminaries throughout history have had mystical experiences which verified for them the existence of an inner spiritual reality. Mystics from every religious tradition have described their inner spiritual experiences. They have spoken of heavenly realms that co-exist with the physical world. These are realms of joy and love which are within us. They are regions of eternal peace and bliss beyond time and space. Although we cannot change the fundamental nature of the world, we can become attuned to the worlds lying within us. In order to find peace in the world, we must first find it within ourselves. We can do this only by changing our perspective in life. The way to reach the spiritual realms is to invert through a process known as meditation. Through meditation we can separate our soul from the body and voyage into the regions within. We have within us an opening or door by which our attention can enter the higher regions. This entryway is located between and behind the two eyebrows. It is known as the seat of the soul in the body and has been referred to in many ways by various religions and philosophies. It has been called the

By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj

ife and strife seem to go hand in hand. We have all experienced this. Any happiness that we receive is often short-lived, for at any moment we may suddenly find ourselves in states of sorrow. Disturbances occur at each and every stage of our life. Although existence in this world is turbulent, life should be more than a pendulum in which we swing back and forth between moments of joy and moments of sorrow. The dictionary defines peace as freedom from strife, a state of serenity, calmness, and stillness. Despite the obstacles, we can attain true peace in this lifetime, but to do so, we need to undergo a shift in our way of thinking. Our angle of vision needs to change. We tend to look for peace in the outer world. We hope to find it in our possessions, positions, and relationships, but the loss of any of these causes us to become agitated and distraught. Our peace of mind is disturbed. Everything in this world is subject to change and eventual decay. So long as we look to the transitory world for happiness, we will be disappointed. We need to change the way we look at this problem. An anecdote from the life of the Moghul Emperor Akbar can help us in this regard. Akbar is considered to be one of the most enlightened emperors of India. He had a number of advisors to help run his kingdom. Among these great minds was Birbal, the wisest of them all. He was quite clever and could figure out

The solution to finding peace requires us to look at the problem from a new perspective. We cannot change the nature of the world or its problems, but we can add a new dimension to life that will give us peace.
single eye or third eye, the shiv netra, divya chakshu, daswan dwar, or tenth door. If we can withdraw our attention from the outer world and focus it at this point we will see the Light of the higher regions reflected therein. As our soul collects at this point, it rises into the beyond. We m a y s p e n d o u r t i m e s e e k i n g worldly enjoyments, but they last for only short periods of time. So long as our attention is identified with the world outside, we are faced with the problems and miseries that are inherent in physical existence. By inverting our attention and rising above the physical body through a process of meditation on the inner Light, we will find regions within which give us lasting peace. F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n c o n ta c t www.sos.org. Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj is an internationally recognized spiritual leader and Master of Jyoti Meditation who affirms the transcendent oneness at the heart of all religions and mystic traditions, emphasizing ethical living and meditation as building blocks for achieving inner and outer peace. www.sos.org.

Attain true independence spiritually

By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj
ndependence Day is celebrated in India on August 15th. Other countries may also have their own independence days. While in the world this holiday marks the day a country became free from its mother country or declared itself a sovereign nation, independence also refers to the liberation and freedom of our soul. Just as one country may be a colony of another country, our soul has been colo-

nized and taken over by the coverings of our mind and body. Most of us think of ourselves as a body and a mind; few realize that we have another part that is our true essence, our soul. When our soul declares its own independence from the bondage of the mind and body, it soars with exhilaration and freedom. Instead of being bound to the limitations of time and space of this earthly realm, the soul experiences its unlimited nature as it experiences the bliss and joy of regions of creation that exist beyond this realm.

Scientists of the soul, often referred to as saints, mystics, philosophers, or Masters, have been exploring the regions beyond since recorded history. They came to the same conclusions. We are more than the body and mind; we are the soul. The soul can travel into spiritual realms and merge back in its source, the Oversoul, the Creator, or the Divine. They have all achieved this realization by inverting their attention, whether it is called prayer, inversion, or meditation. They tell us our true independence comes when

we sit in silence, close our eyes, direct our attention within, and experience the Divine. The journey begins with our inner awareness or inner eye opening up to see inner light and hear celestial music. Through further absorption in these, our soul transcends awareness of the physical body to become aware of the inner realms, such as the astral, causal, and supracausal regions, until it merges into a region of all spirit, the home of the Divine. We then discover our soul, which is spirit, is the same essence as the Creator,

which is also spirit. The two merge back into one and we experience limitless bliss, joy, and divine love. When we celebrate the outer independence days in our respective countries, whether it is July 4 in the United States, or on different dates in different countries, let us also strive to achieve our spiritual independence. We can do so by meditating on the inner Light and Sound which will lead our soul to recognize that we are more than the physical body and intellect. We are soul, a part of the Divine, and our true nature is bliss, joy, and love.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

January 25-31, 2014

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

January 25-31, 2014