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India should vote against Lanka at UN on Tamils plight US WARNS N. KOREA OVER
New Delhi: With new photographic evidence suggesting that LTTE chief Prabhakaran's 12-year-old son was deliberately executed rather than accidentally killed in crossfire, public opinion seems to have snowballed against Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa's government, as much in Tamil Nadu as in the West. The US has announced it will move a new resolution against Sri Lanka at the current session of the UN Human Rights Council. From Tamil Nadu, both Jayalalithaa (AIADMK) and Karunanidhi (DMK) are pressurizing the Centre to vote against Sri Lanka at the UN. But India knows the downside of external pressures being used to engineer internal change first-hand. Describing the plight of Tamils in Sri Lanka as a "huge humanitarian problem" which has to end, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said Thursday that India will ask the island nation's government for an independent inquiry into allegations of human rights violations there. While stating that "a closure must be brought to the Continued on page 4

'SUICIDAL' NUCLEAR THREAT AS UN IMPOSES STIFFER SANCTIONS

LTTE chief Prabhakaran with his son Balachandran in happier times. Photographs released by Britains Channel 4 last month show that Sri Lankan soldiers executed the 12-year-old Balachandran in 2009.

Protests in US against revoking of Modi's Wharton invite

Key WIEF sponsors, Colors TV channel and Adani Group, pull out in the wake of the controversy.
Washington: Disappointed at the decision of Wharton India Economic Forum (WIEF) to cancel its invitation to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi for delivering a keynote address via live video-conferencing, his supporters have launched a campaign to lodge their protests against the decisions. The supporters, under the banner of 'Americans for Free Speech', in a mass email asked people to write to the top management of Wharton,
Americas UN ambassador Susan Rice votes at a UN Security Council meeting on imposing fourth round of sanctions against North Korea.

America's leading business school, and the University of Pennsylvania against the decision taken by the WIEF to rescind its invitation to Continued on page 4 Modi.

Party my focus, not PM post: Rahul Gandhi

New Delhi: Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said his focus was strengthening the party and not becoming its prime ministerial candidate ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. "Asking me whether you want to be prime minister is a wrong question," Gandhi told some party leaders during an informal interaction in the central hall of parliament, said a party leader. This despite his recent appointment as Congress vice-president which was widely regarded as a precursor for him to be the party's candidate for the top job. Arguably India's most eligible bachelor, he also said he wasn't Continued on page 4

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi

New York: The United Nations Security Council has voted unanimously to punish North Korea for last month's nuclear test with a toughened sanctions regime, hours after Pyongyang threatened to unleash a pre-emptive nuclear strike on the United States. Meanwhile, a top US lawmaker warned North Korea Thursday that any pre-emptive nuclear strike against the US would be suicidal, telling Congress the isolated nation posed "a growing threat." "I do not think the regime in Pyongyang wants to commit suicide, but that, as they must surely know, would be the result of any attack on the United States," Senator Bob Menendez told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He welcomed the new sanctions but said the US needed to do more to combine sanctions and military countermeasures with strong and realistic diplomacy aimed at North Korea and China.

At the UN, Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said the resolution sent an unequivocal message to North Korea that the international community will not tolerate its pursuit of nuclear weapons. The decision by the 15-member council followed lengthy negotiations between the United States and China, the North's main ally. Measures range from tightened financial restrictions to cargo inspections and an explicit ban on exports of yachts and racing cars to the North, but experts say the real issue is enforcement. China's UN ambassador Li Baodong said Beijing, Pyongyang's main trading partner, wanted to see "full implementation" of the resolution. Susan Rice, the US ambassador to the UN, told reporters that the measures would "bite hard". She added: "North Korea will achieve nothing by continued threats and Continued on page 4

US Affairs 9

Photos of the Week 18

Op Ed 19

Spiritual Awareness 30

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Modi disinvite casts shadow on Wharton India forum

By Arun Kumar Washington: The bizarre cancellation of an invitation to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to speak has cast a long shadow over the prestigious Wharton India Economic Forum's March 23 conclave. The abrupt cancellation Sunday of the invitation to Modi to speak via live videoconference at the annual student-run India-centric conference in Philadelphia came after a war of words between Modi supporters and detractors even as corporate America is making a beeline for his state. Modi may have been denied a US visa for his alleged role in the 2002 Gujarat riots, but foreign dignitaries lavished praise on the third term chief minister at the Vibrant Gujarat 2013 Summit in Gandhinagar in January. Among them was Ron Somers, president of the US-India Business Council (USIBC), an advocacy group of 300 top American and a score Indian companies seeking stronger commercial relations with India. Modi has "created a magnet for investment," said Somers, who is among the other keynote speakers at the forum, hosted by the Wharton Business School of the University of Pennsylvania. Other billed speakers are Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Minister of State for IT & Communications Milind Deora On cancellation of the invitation to Modi, the organizers said: "Our team felt that the potential polarizing reactions from subsegments of the alumni base, student body, and our supporters, might put Mr. Modi in a compromising position, which we would like to avoid at all costs, especially in the spirit of our conference's purpose." But the student body which runs the forum said it was "extremely impressed with Modi's credentials, governance, ideologies and leadership, which was the primary reason for his invitation". However, as a responsible student body within the University of Pennsylvania, "we must consider the impact on multiple stakeholders stake holders in our ecosystem". The surprise move Sunday came following a strongly-worded letter from a group of Wharton's professors and students saying they were outraged to learn that the forum had invited Modi as a keynote speaker. "This is the same politician who was refused a diplomatic visa by the US State Department on March 18, 2005 on the ground that he, as chief minister, did nothing to prevent a series of orchestrated riots that targeted Muslims in Gujarat," it said.

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi has been denied US visa but is a strong contender for Indias prime minister in 2014.

Lawmakers join effort to legalize cell phone unlocking

Washington: A day after the White House endorsed cell phone unlocking, several lawmakers have voiced support for legislation to legalize the process. The Obama administration threw its support behind an Internet petition that asks the Library of Congress to change its stance on the legality of smartphone unlocking. The process became illegal earlier this year when the Library of Congress, which has the responsibility of reviewing the Digital Millennium Copyright Act every three years, opted not to renew the exemption for unlocking phones. In response, Sen. Ron Wyden (DOre.) has introduced a bill called the Wireless Device Independence Act, which would "allow consumers to unlock cell phones for interoperability purposes." Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, also voiced his support for legislation to legalize cell phone unlocking. His committee is responsible for copyright issues and would likely have oversight of efforts to legalize cell phone unlocking.

Mohans Tailors admits tax evasion by the millions

By Parveen Chopra New York: Many New Yorkers would have come across Mohans Custom Tailors regular ads in The New York Times and Wall Street Journal. He was also famous for draping towering basketball stars such as Patrick Ewing and Wilt Chamberlain, as well as former city mayors Rudy Giuliani and Edward Koch. Now the establishment name is sullied for tax evasion running into millions. On Tuesday Mohan Ramchandani, founder owner of the studio near Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, admitted in court that in the past decade Mohans raked in $28 million but reported only $5.6 million on tax returns. Appearing in the State Supreme Court in Manhattan he admitted to collecting $1.7 million in taxes from customers that he did not pay and to underpaying his personal income taxes by $256,000. Pleading guilty to tax evasion charges, he agreed to serve a sentence of one to three years and to pay $5.5 million in back taxes and penalties within two years. Ramchandani said in a statement, I made several mistakes with regard to the payment of taxes and I take full responsibility for my actions. Ramchandanis legal troubles began when a former employee, Vijay Tharwani, filed a whistle-blower lawsuit against him, which led to charges being filed by the state attorney generals office. Under the terms of the plea and settlement agreement, Tharwani will receive $1.1 million from the money his former boss is to repay. There are no excuses for tax cheats, regardless of how prominent they are, said Eric T. Schneiderman, the New

Washington closed as 'snowquester' hits US capital

Washington: Schools, colleges and many government offices in Washington metro area were closed Wednesday as a massive snow storm nicknamed "snowquester" by punsters hit the American capital after setting snowfall records in Chicago. Washington could see a crippling 10 inches of snow, CNN reported while some places in northern Virginia and West Virginia could see as much as 30 inches. The Washington Post's weather forecasters said with the low-pressure system from North Carolina gathering strength and making its way to the Washington area, it may be by far the biggest snowstorm in the region in the last two years. Hundreds of flights were cancelled in the Northeast, the White House put off a function, US Congress called off several hearings and more than 900,000 school students in Washington, Virginia, Maryland and Ohio got a day off, CNN reported. The storm earlier dumped about a foot of snow in parts of Illinois, Minnesota and North Dakota, and paved a white swath across the Upper Midwest.

Mohan Ramchandanis legal troubles began when a former employee, Vijay Tharwani, filed a whistle-blower lawsuit against him, which led to charges being filed by the state attorney generals office. York attorney general. Ramchandanis lawyer, James O. Druker, said the business should survive Ramchandanis time in prison. Born in Ahmadabad, India, Mohan Ramchandani spent four years in Hong Kong, where his family owns a factory that continues to makes all of his custom-made apparel. In 1972 he crossed the Atlantic and continued his career in New York City. Mohans Tailors website claims that the company seeks to provide quality alternatives to overpriced designer clothing. Although its collection represents some of the world's finest mills, Mohan's prices are set substantially lower, saving the average customer 40-50% on each suit.

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Protest in US against revoking of Modis Wharton Invite story Continued from page 1 The promoters of the protest campaign said that a group of distinguished community leaders and prominent university professors in the US is working on a memorandum to be submitted to Wharton for "violation of First Amendment" of the Constitution, "stifling free speech" and "pandering" to the far left. The group is also planning to hold a peaceful protest outside the Philadelphia venue of the annual student-run India-centric conference hosted by the Wharton School on March 23. They aim to make the University and the Wharton School aware that their decision has not gone down well among the Indian Americans, and corporate sector of the country. At the moment Shri Modi is the most popular, dynamic and charismatic Chief Minister in India. According to a poll conducted by Ipsos, 43% respondents support Shri Modi for the post of next Prime Minister of India. The Wall Street Journal says that more than 90% people oppose cancellation of Modis speech at Wharton, the group said. Meanwhile, a key sponsor of the WIEF has pulled out of the annual meet in the wake of revocation of invitation to Modi. The webpage of WIEF Thursday showed Colours channel being removed from the list of silver sponsors. Before Colors, the Gujarat-based Adani Group, which was the top Platinum sponsor of the event, and Hexaware Technologies (a silver sponsor) withdrew from the event. There has not been any official word from either the Wharton School or the organizers of the WIEF on withdrawal of sponsors and speakers and its impact on the conference. Rahul Gandhi story Continued from page 1 interested in marriage. He said he did not wish to tie the knot and start a family as doing so would lead him to develop a vested interest in the status quo at the expense of his mission to democratize the Congress and decentralize its decision-making Bhagwati Creations, Rahul Sahota Web Editor: B.B.Chopra News Service: HT Media Ltd. IANS Newswire Services Printing: Five Star Printing, NY Richner Publications Contacts Editor@TheSouthAsianTimes.info Subscribe@TheSouthAsianTimes.info Advertisements Advertise@TheSouthAsianTimes.info P : 516.390.7847 F : 516.465.1343 Website: www.TheSouthAsianTimes.info

1st American medical graduate to run for AAPI executive committee

president, AAPINew York: Running for AAPI Secretary, Dr. Kavita Gupta Philadelphia and later claims that she would become President, AAPI- NJ, DE chapter in 2011. the first American medical gradKavita feels that being uate in the executive committee part of the AAPI execuof AAPI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin), tive committee, she can fulfilling AAPI leaderships effectively bring the issues of young Indian desire for a long time to bring in American physicians to the second generation. the table including student Kavita is a medical graduate loans, supporting new of the UMDNJ , New Jersey, and practices Interventional practices, career and Pain Management in South social activities. There is New Jersey based Dr Kavita Jersey. She also helps her huslot of talent and potential Gupta is running for AAPI in the second generation band Dr. Sanjay Gupta in directSecretary. and many have accoming the weekly TV show on NBC Philly educating public about health issues. plished great heights, but somehow none of She has served AAPI for 18 years. She the past MSRF and YPS presidents continued founded AAPI chapter in her medical school in executive positions of AAPI later on. I and continued as vice president of AAPI- want to break that tradition and act as a MSRF and then President of YPS (Young bridge bringing more of second generation Physician Section) in 2002. She was vice into AAPI.

Continuations of page 1
US warns N. Korea story Continued from page 1 provocations." A North Korean foreign ministry spokesman threatened to launch "pre-emptive nuclear strikes on the headquarters of the aggressors" because Washington was pushing to start a nuclear war against it, in a statement hours before the UN vote. Experts do not believe the North has managed to produce a warhead small enough to be mounted on a missile that could reach the US. India should vote againt Lanka story Continued from page 1 27 years of violence", Khurshid said that "India does not want to play policeman or big brother". "I know there are reports of human rights violations. The bottom line remains that devolution (of power) which gives legitimate rights must be implemented in toto," he asserted in the Lok Sabha while replying to a debate on the plight of Tamils in Sri Lanka. He also said that India will frame its response to the upcoming UN human rights panel vote on Sri Lanka on the basis of parliamentarians' views, the ground situation and the record of the island nation's government. The answer failed to satisfy AIADMK, DMK and MDMK members who walked out of the Lok Sabha. AIADMK member M. Thambi Durai said: "The UN report says more than 4,000 Tamil civilians were killed in Sri Lanka. India should have taken serious action and stopped this genocide". DMK's Dayanidhi Maran raised the issue of the reported killing of the son of the slain LTTE chief V. Prabhakaran. In Chennai, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa alleged that Sri Lanka was attempting to "intimidate" India into not raising its voice against the atrocities on Tamils in that country by arresting Indian fishermen. VP - Strategy and Marketing: Namit Narain C: 516.303.2075 Namit@TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Osamas son-in-law to be tried in New York for terrorism

Washington: Weeks after he was first arrested in Turkey, a son-in-law of Osama bin Laden who once served as a spokesman for Al Qaeda will appear in a New York courtroom on Friday to face terrorism charges that could result in life imprisonment. Sulaiman Abu Ghaith, who is married to one of Bin Ladens daughters, Fatima, is to be charged with conspiracy to kill Americans, according to an indictment released Thursday. Justice Department officials described him as a propagandist who they believe has not had an operational role in Al Qaeda for years and did not participate in the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, or in any plots against the United States. But one law enforcement official said that Mr. Abu Ghaith, 47, was the most senior Qaeda figure to face criminal trial in New York since Americas war against the terrorist network began. Officials said he was originally detained last month while staying in a hotel in Ankara, Turkey, after crossing the border from Iran, where he had been living for about a decade. According to one person in Washington briefed on the matter, Turkish officials rebuffed demands by the Obama administration to directly hand him over to the United States, choosing instead to deport him to Kuwait, his home country. On a stopover in Amman, Jordan, American officials took him into custody and flew him to New York. Abu Ghaith was a Muslim preacher and teacher in Kuwait who spoke out against Saddam Husseins invasion of Kuwait in the early 1990s. In 2000, he traveled to Afghanistan, where he met Bin Laden and eventually married one of his daughters. He attracted wide attention in the days after the Sept. 11 attacks by making statements defending the attacks, some of them carried on Al Jazeera.

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Dr Akshay Desai files for bankruptcy, resigns as Finance Chairman of Florida GOP
Florida: High profile Indian American entrepreneur in Florida, who was a luminary of the Republican Party for his fundraising abilities, Dr. Akshay Desai filed for bankruptcy last month after it came to light that his company, Universal Health Care overstated assets and submitted misleading financial statements. Desai also resigned from his positions as finance chairman of the Republican Party of Florida and the State Board of Education. The Surat-born Desai, who was close to presidential contender Mitt Romney, said he resigned from his two political positions "to devote 100 percent of my time to deal with my current business challenges." The state documents portray Universal, based in St. Petersburg, as a an affidavit accompanying a letter from McCarty to Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater. McCarty said Universal is insolvent and asks Atwater, who heads the Department of Financial Services, to refer the company to DFS' Division of Rehabilitation and Liquidation. That division sometimes works out a way to have a distressed company taken over by one that is larger and more stable. But if that can't be done, its assets could be divided among the creditors. Ultimately a judge will have to decide. McCarty's letter was accompanied by an affidavit from Toma L. Wilkerson, director of OIR's Life & Health Financial Oversight division. In her affidavit, Wilkerson said Universal Health Care's assets "have been materially overstated" on official filings. She said Bank United, which gave Universal a credit line of $60 million last year, alleges that the financial statements Universal provided at the time "were incorrect, false, and/or misleading." Wilkerson also noted that the company had five chief financial officers in six years, and went without a CFO for 18 months in 2011-12. Desai obtained his medical degree from Government Medical College, India. He achieved his Master's Degree in Administrative Medicine while attending the George Washington University in Washington, D.C. He is certified by the American Boards of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, and Quality Assurance. In the past, Desai has served as Chief of Staff and Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Northside Hospital and Heart Institute as well as St. Petersburg General Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. He has served on numerous committees of various Hospitals and Health Plans throughout the Tampa Bay area. Desai was the Chairman of the Council for Education Policy, Research and Improvement (CEPRI) for the state of Florida and was appointed to this position by Governor Jeb Bush. He also served as Commissioner and Chairman of Health Committee, White House Commission on Asian American, Pacific Islander advising the President on issues effecting Asian Americans.

Dr Akshay Desai

company in deep financial distress and badly mismanaged. Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty said that allowing it to stay in operation "poses a serious danger to the financial safety" of the public - particularly the thousands of Medicare and Medicaid patients who are members of its managed-care plans. The accusations are contained in

Dr. Subramanian Swamy, President of Janata Party was welcomed by Indian American Intellectuals Forum (IAIF) on his arrival at John F. Kennedy Airport, New York on March 5th while on his way to Washington, D.C. to meet with U.S. Government officials in connection with the human right issues of Sri Lankan Tamils pending before the U.N. Human Rights Commission.

Two South Asian women named Nonprofit Leaders to Watch

New York: Huffington Posts Women in Tech section recently named two Indian Americans Leila Janah, CEO and founder of Samasource; and Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code as two of its five Nonprofit Leaders to Watch. Janah has not only recently modeled for Sorel's "Get Your Boots Dirty" campaign, but she also heads Samasource, a nonprofit enterprise that connects the unemployed in some of the world's poorest countries to digital work in the industrialized world. Asked by PopTech for her company's philosophy, Janah said, "Handouts are not going to end global poverty, but work real work just might." Samasource's two basesin San Francisco, Calif., and Nairobi, Kenyagive it global reach, and the company runs operations in Gambia, Ghana, Haiti, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa and Uganda. According to the Web site of Girls Who Code, it's pretty clear that women like computers, as they use the Internet 17 percent more than males and create more than two-thirds of social media content. But there's bias in technical fields that keeps women out, says Girls Who Code founder Saujani. "Girls and boys at 12 or 13 like math and science the same, but then something shifts," Saujani told Fast Company. "Theres a cultural perception that a coder or engineer looks like a white male." And, says her Web site, that perception is hurting our country: "By 2018, there will be 1.4 million computer science-related job openings, yet U.S. universities are expected to produce enough computer science graduates to fill just 29 percent of these jobs, she said. And while 57 percent of bachelor's degrees are obtained by women, less than 14 percent of computer science degrees are awarded to women." Saujani's solution? Provide all-girls coding classes for underprivileged young women in New York City for eight weeks, eight hours a day. The first classes ran in July 2012 and drew support from high-profile tech companies, including Twitter, eBay and Gilt Groupe, Time reports. Saujani encourages women to become coders so they can "make a difference," she told Fast Company. "[They should know that] being a coder can help improve water scarcity, or help bring democracy to a country in the Middle East."

Left to Right: Arish Sahani, Narain Kataria, Dr. Subramanian Swamy, Alka Soni and Man Mohan Soni

Virchand Raghavji Gandhis 150th birth anniversary to be celebrated

New York: As per information shared by Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Shri Virchand Raghav Ji Gandhi a program will be organized in India Parliament House Premises in the auspicious presence of Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni and distinguished guests. Celebrations may take place from August 2013 to August 2014. Globally it is also a matter of pleasure for all Jains that Sh. Jai Prakash Agarwal, Chairman, House Committee Lok Sabha and Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) has accepted the Chairmanship of Shri Virchand Raghav 150th Birth Anniversary Celebration Committee. Its noteworthy that apart from P.P. Acharyashree Lokeshji Muni ji following personalities are globally working hard for Virchand Gandhi related projects: Dr. Sulekhji C Jain (Houston) , Shree Dilipji V Shah (Philadelphia) , Dr. Nitin Shah (California), Shree Pravin C Shah (NY) , Shree Kamleshji Mehta (NY), Prof. Ratanlalji Jain (Delhi) , Shree Maheshji V Gandhi (Mumbai) , Shree Nemubhai Chandaria (UK) , Shree Kumarpalbhai Desai (Ahmedabad), Shree Kirit Daftary (Texas) & many other prominent leaders. As this news is very uplifting it would be great if worldwide Indians & Indian organizations also come ahead & celebrate 150th Birth Anniversary of Virchand Raghavji Gandhi. Revival of Virchand Raghavji Gandhi may serve as a role model for youth. Swami Vivekanand, Virchand Gandhi & Dharampala had captivated in 1893s parliament of world religions. Virchand Raghavji Gandhi created history not only at the World Parliament of Religion in Chicago, but also through his captivating speeches on subjects like Hinduism, Jainism, Yoga, Philosophy, Economics, Trade, Commerce, Social, Customs, Concentration, Occult Science, Astral Body, etc. and was well received during his 535 mesmerizing lectures in U.S.A. & Europe. And he was also interesting delegate in 1893s World Real Estate Congress & 1899s International Congress of Commerce (worlds 3rd ever historic conference). He was possibly first gujarati youth to visit USA in 1893 as a delegate for an international event.

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Touro College of Pharmacy students travel to India to run health camps

not hold a blood pressure cuff. One man had collected so many medications that he stuffed them into two shopping bags and brought them to the camp to be sorted, identified and ultimately thrown away. He had no idea what he was taking, or the expiration dates of his drugs, said Steven Elrod, a doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) candidate at the Touro College of Pharmacy in Harlem. He had ten years of medications. Many were not needed. At the end he left with one small zip-lock bag. Elrod was one of six Touro pharmacy students who, with three faculty members, recently ventured to the slums of India. The group spent four weeks in the poor neighborhoods of New Delhi and Agra, where most of the residents lack access to primary health care. They screened residents for hypertension, diabetes and pulmonary impairment. Residents needing treatment were referred for medical services, and attempts were made to counsel them on how to improve their health, prevent disease and use their medications properly. The students were well-prepared for their work in India by the public health courses and training that is part of our curriculum, and by prior rotations addressing the needs of disadvantaged communities, a commitment of the Touro College of Pharmacy, said Dr. Audrey Jacobson, M.D., MPH, professor and director of public health education, practice and research, who helped lead the trip. In India, the Touro group collaborated with the Urban Health Resource Center (UHRC), a nonprofit organization in New Delhi that works to improve health of the urban poor living in slums and settlements. The Touro students screened about 350 patients (more than twice as many as anticipated) and in addition to the counseling, created a database of proper medications that they left behind for UHRC to help residents obtain appropriate medications. In addition to Elrod, the other students participating were Glenn Morataya, Ravi Shah, Jillian Brown, Jessica Cate and Danny Tea. The students worked under the supervision of Drs. Jacobson, Dipan Ray, Ph.D., director of practice experience, and Ronnie Moore, Pharm.D., senior director of practice experience.

Dipan Ray, Ph.D., director of practice experience at Touro College of Pharmacy in Harlem (middle) and Ravi Shah, a doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) candidate at the College (right), work together to interview a patient at a makeshift health camp in New Delhi. They were part of a team of six students and three faculty members who recently ventured to the slums of India where most of the residents lack access to primary health care. They gathered information on diet, past medical history and current medications in order to provide an optimal check up. Photo credit: Danny Tea

New York, NY: The women who had come to the makeshift health camps to see the student pharma-

cists from Harlem had ongoing pain in their bones. Some were so thin that their gaunt arms would

Suratis 5th annual Holi event on March 30 in Jersey City

New Jersey: This year, again, Jersey Citys Surati for Performing Arts, Education and Entertainment is bringing to the people of the tristate area and beyond, its 5th annual Holi event in Jersey City on Saturday, March 30th (rain date: Sat, April 6). The event will be hosted in downtown, Jersey City (outdoors) in Hamilton Square The event was originally designed to bring together the community which comprised of, among others, professionals, individuals and families from the waterfront areas of Newport, Exchange Place, Paulus Hook, Hoboken etc. However, in past years attendees have come all the way from Connecticut, Washington D.C and even Boston, MA. Similar to last year, this year too, artistes visual artistes, musicians and dancers along with families and children from the community will be an integral part of the event. An arts exhibition capturing the essence of Holi presented by children, will be on display. Children will also be presenting songs and dances related to the spirit of Holi. Local artistes will present a cultural program and also educate viewers on the history of the festival. There will be lecture demonstrations on various performing art forms dance, music and theatre. There will also be several attractions for children and adults including workshops for Salsa, Bollywood, Bhangra and Jazz, henna tattoos, a rangoli workshop, dance and music workshops and an insight into the history or Holi narrated through dance and drama. The event is scheduled to run from 12-5 pm. The art and craft exhibition is scheduled to run throughout the day. The South Asian Times is media partner of the event.

Madame Tussauds New York to unveil a new Bollywood exhibit

New York: Ten award winning dancers between the ages of 9-16 will perform a fusion of traditional and modern Indian dances to celebrate the arrival of a Madame Tussauds traveling Bollywood exhibit at Madame Tussauds New York on Thursday, March 7th at 11:00 a.m. EST at Madame Tussauds New York [234 W. 42nd Street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues in Manhattan] The junior dance group from AATMA Performing Arts recently took 1st place at the Dance Pe Chance competition hosted by the Federation of Indian Associations. The exhibit features incredibly lifelike wax figures of five Hindi cinema legends including: Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor, and Amitabh Bachchan. Each of the wax likenesses was created by Madame Tussauds team of artists in London and took approximately four months to complete at a cost of $300,000. The exhibit will be featured as part of Madame Tussauds New York Bollywood Zone and remain on display through July 12. The dancers will open the event with a performance combining elements of both traditional and modern Indian dance styles. AATMA's interpretation of Bollywood dance, which originates from Indian cinema, combines ethnic spirit and intense emotion to produce a breathtaking visual display of dance and entertainment.

Rotary Club of Hicksville initiates business & community literacy programs

Hicksville: On March 3, 2013 The Rotary Club of Hicksville South celebrated the kick off of their second year of community literacy programs. Dr. Dev Ratnam, President of the Club welcomed the thirty five participants who overwhelmingly participated in the Advanced Excel for Business session, a one of a kind expert-user group for Long Island's professional community with focus on the small business. "It is being a partner, we become a leader" said Mr. Quddus Mohammed, VP and Literary Program Chair, as he outlined the mission of ROTA-PAAL to promote and provide goal-oriented, lifelong learning experiences to the South Asian Community of Nassau County, NY. Dr. Ratnam congratulated Mr. Quddus and the entire team their community service, as Bhuvan Pasham, an IT Engineer and Mrs Madhuri Rallapalli engaged the participants in stimulating topics on the concepts of Advanced Excel for business application. The Rotary Club of Hicksville South conducts a free, adult learning and life skills development service for the South Asian community of Nassau County, Long Island. The program titled ROTA-PAAL launched the first of a series of workshops in 2013. We look forward for our next program, Developing Entrepreneurs and Entrepreneurial Finance, said Mr. Krishna Murali Iyer. "Successful business executives establish objectives, set strategy, implement solutions and review progress using

Installation of AIA-New York New Executive Board

This is free, adult learning and life skills development service for Long Island South Asian community

a structured and disciplined process toward achievement of their written goals, he added. Mrs. Zeba Ansari and Mrs. Sangeetha Bahl will be conducting spoken English and Basic Computer classes, which are in extreme demand among the Long Island's immigrant community. Detailed information and content of workshops scheduled for the March to June 2013 period can be accessed on www.rotapaal.com . Among the topics include computer skills, spoken English, communication skills and business finance. Interested persons can register via email to rotapaal@gmail.com or by telephone 516-342-0706.

The Association of Indians in America New York Chapter elected new managing committee. The incoming committee members seen in the photo: Dr. Ghanshyam Pandey, Dr. Neeta Jain, Dr. Urmilesh Arya, Indu Gajwani, Gitanjali Anand, Avinash Suri, Neena Sahani (seated), Sudeep Jay Modi, Jyoti Gupta, Dr. Swarn Gupta, Sumit Arora, Deepika Modi, Dr. Tarun Wasil, Sunil Modi, (incoming President, center, standing) Abhijay Goenka, Govind Munjal, Ranju Batra, Divya Tandon, Swati Vaishnav, Dr. Bal Gilja, Dr. Pushpa Shah, Shyam Gajwani, Ami Bhagat, Neelam Modi & Dr. Sunil Mehra (standing).

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NATIONAL COMMUNITY

March 9-15, 2013

Wharton or not, Modi set to speak Indians among top 4 sources for business studies in US to North American audience
Washington, DC: Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi would after all speak to audiences in North America courtesy the Overseas Friends of BJP, following the cancellation of an invitation from the Wharton India Economic Forum. The Bhartiya Janata Party's overseas liaison unit announced Wednesday that Modi shall address American and Canadian citizens via live video speech March 9 at 8.00 p.m. (6.30 a.m. India time March 10) through US based TV Asia channel. Organized under the BJP global community outreach programme, Modi's speech broadcast live from Ahmadabad would be available for viewing live at two centres in New Jersey and Chicago besides TV Asia, according to OFBJP convenor Vijay Jolly. Meanwhile, WIEF's cancellation of the invitation to Modi to speak via video conference at its upcoming its annual student-run Indiacentric conference in Philadelphia March 23 has received mixed reaction here. Expressing disappointment at the decision to disinvite Modi, an influential Democrat lawmaker Eni Faleomavaega said "Universities are a place for Washington, DC: Business-related programs are the most popular single field of study among international students in the US with China, India, South Korea and Saudi Arabia being the top four source countries, according to a new study. However, among Indian and Saudi students business ranks third behind engineering and math, and engineering and English respectively, while it is the single-most popular field among Chinese and Korean students, according to World Education Services (WES). This growth in the popularity of business programs has paralleled, to a degree, the overall demand for undergraduate programs at US institutions, the WES study on "International Student Mobility Trends 2013: Towards Responsive Recruitment Strategies" noted. As a result, international undergraduate students in business studies grew by approximately 60 percent in the US between 2003 and 2011, with nearly three out of ten international undergraduates enrolled in business fields-a proportion that is now comparable to the UK and Canada. The authors Rahul Choudaha, director of research and advisory services, and research associates Li Chang and Yoko Kono noted how student mobility patterns to the US have changed in the decade following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Due to visa policy changes and perceptions that the US had become a less welcoming host country for international students, enrollment growth stalled in the immediate aftermath of the attacks. At that time, Indians represented the largest international student population, rising almost 12 percent in 2002-03 compared to just two percent among Chinese students-bucking an overall downward trend in enrollments that would last until the 2006/07 academic year. Within a decade, that story has been turned on its head. Overall enrollments are again growing at a healthy level. Chinese enrollments have been booming at an average annual growth rate of well above 20 percent since 2007-08, while Indian enrollments have stagnated and recently started a downward trajectory. A look into the level of study reveals that India is a graduate market, but a combination of socioeconomic and demographic factors suggest an inflow of more Indian undergraduates in the coming years. Three fourths of Indian students at the graduate level (77 percent) were enrolled in S&E fields, significantly higher than the concentration for international students overall (59 percent), according to WES. In addition to aggressive outreach in traditional Asian markets, particularly China and India, the WES study highlighted the need for diversification of international student populations by place of origin.

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi

divergent views. For Wharton to suppress the views of some at the expense of others simply is not right." "It is disappointing that Wharton rescinded its invite in response to a protest from a segment of professors and students who are reaching beyond the law and coming awfully close to violating the rights of others who have a different view," he said. The top democrat on the House Foreign Relations Committee's subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific had at a recent Congressional hearing urged the Obama administration to review its policy regarding Modi and begin a dialogue with him. In a Wall Street Journal poll on the issue, 92.5 percent of nearly 5000 votes cast from around the world said Wharton had made a

mistake in Modi's case. Sadanand Dhume, an Indian American columnist for The Wall Street Journal and a scholar at American Enterprise Institute, a Washington think-tank, has also announced he would not speak at the Wharton forum in protest against its decision on Modi. Aseem Shukla, an associate professor of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and a co-founder of the Hindu American Foundation, said "political gamesmanship won over business savvy" in the Wharton decision. "The students and the Wharton administration must learn the lessons of consequences even as they seek redemption that can be theirs with the right moves forward," he said.

Florida Sikh victim of possible hate crime recovering

Port Orange, FL: A Sikh man shot as he drove over a bridge with his son and who investigators say was probably targeted in a hate crime because he wears a turban, was released from the hospital this week and is recovering at home. Kanwaljit Singh was resting at his Port Orange residence Tuesday afternoon, said his wife, Paramjit Kaur. He was discharged from Halifax Health Medical Center after being in critical condition since he was shot on Feb. 23 just before midnight. Singh's car was shot at six times as the 46-year-old father of two headed west over the Dunlawton Bridge. He was with his 13-year-old son at the time and the pair had just closed a new convenience store that Singh had opened on the beachside, friends said. Singh was struck twice, bullets entering his torso and one of his thighs. Port Orange detectives have released little information, saying they do not want to

jeopardize their case. The incident report also has been kept under wraps because it contains several details on the case, said Capt. David Meyer. Investigators have said the attack was probably not random because Singh was wearing the head turban traditional for men of that faith, said Navtej Khalsa, regional director of the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund in Oviedo.

March 9-15, 2013

NATIONAL COMMUNITY

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

US relaxes air travel carry-on prohibitions

Washington, DC: The Transportation Security Administration said on Tuesday that it would allow airplane passengers to bring pocketknives, golf clubs and other sports items aboard in carry-on bags, loosening some of the restrictions created after the Sept. 11 terror attacks. The agency said the new rules, which align with international standards, would allow its security agents to better focus their efforts on finding higher-threat items such as explosives. Box cutters and razor blades are still prohibited in carry-on bags. Passengers will be permitted to carry pocketknives with blades shorter than 2.36 inches long and 0.5 inches wide. Knives with a locking or fixed blade, or those with a molded grip, will still be prohibited. The new rules will also allow passengers to bring on board previously banned sports equipment like lacrosse and hockey sticks, pool cues and ski poles, as well as no more than two golf clubs. Novelty and toy baseball bats measuring less than 24 inches, or weighing less than 24 ounces, will be permitted as well. The new policy was announced by John S. Pistole, the agencys administrator, at an international aviation safety conference held in Brooklyn. Mr. Pistole has sought to move the T.S.A. from a one-sizefits-all model to a more tailored approach that focuses on threats and risks. The agency introduced new programs, for instance, that allow some frequent fliers to go through special safety lines at designated airports if they have been cleared in advance. The changes, however, attracted sharp criticism from flight attendant unions. The Flight Attendants Union Coalition, which represents five labor groups and 90,000 people, said the decision was poor and shortsighted. Stacy K. Martin, president of the Southwest Airlines flight attendants union, Transport Workers Union Local 556, said that while a small knife posed little threat to pilots locked in the cockpit, the new policy created unnecessary risks for cabin crew. This policy was designed to make the lives of T.S.A. staff easier, but not make flights safer, she said in a statement.

AAPI Plans 9-City Childhood Obesity Awareness Campaign

Narendra Kumar, President of AAPI. The awareness campaign with continuing medical education (CME) seminars will be held in Cleveland, Ohio, June 8; Los Angeles, California, June 9, Dallas, Texas, June 15; New York, June 16; New Jersey, June 22; Atlanta, Georgia, June 23; Tampa, Florida, June 29; and San Jose, California, June 30. In partnership with local governments, non-governmental agencies and schools around the nation, the AAPI campaign will identify high prevalence - high risk schools and choose 100 schools for the year 2013-14, with the objective of promoting awareness of childhood obesity and offering educational resources to promote healthy lifestyle. AAPI will also work towards advocating policy changes to help build a healthier community. AAPI said it wants to help promote First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move program, emphasizing two specific items: "Choose My Plate" which replaces the more complicated Food Pyramid and is easier to use. It illustrates the 5 food groups- fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods and dairy. And, PALA- Presidential Active Lifestyle Award, that students can sign up for. PALA consists of a six-week log-sheet that students can use to log in what they eat and how much activity they do daily in number of minutes or in pedometer steps. When a student does a good job on it, that student receives the President's Award.

AAPI President Dr Narendra Kumar, President Elect Dr Jayesh Shah and Vice-President Dr Ravindra Jahagirdar

Chicago, IL: The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) plans to organize a nine-city childhood obesity awareness campaign in the US with seminars and music concerts by Indian singer Shankar Mahadevan in June. "With obesity proving to be a major epidemic affecting nearly one third of the nation's population, we have a responsibility to save future generations by decreasing childhood obesity," said Jayesh Shah, president-elect announcing the tour. "The impact and role of AAPI in influencing policy makers and the public is ever more urgent today," said Dr.

Zee TV launches new reality show Indias Best Dramebaaz! Center for Jain Studies to offer summer
New York, NY: A pioneer at introducing unique, homegrown non-fiction formats like Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and Dance India Dance that have captured the pulse of the audience, Zee TV announced a brand-new reality show titled Indias Best Dramebaaz, the talent hunt show will put children in the age range of 5-12 years through a series of tasks and challenges that will groom them as actors and test their creativity, spontaneity and acting capabilities. Popular actors Vivek Oberoi, Sonali Bendre and the much celebrated filmmaker Anurag Basu will judge the show. Saathiya heartthrob Vivek will make a debut on reality television. The program will be aired Sat-Sun 7p ET| 9:30p PT on Zee TV.

program in India to high school teachers

To focus on in-depth education in non-violence
California: Fifty American High School Teachers will receive an in-depth summer education in non-violence, thanks to a special program facilitated by the Center for Jain Studies at Claremont Lincoln University. From July 15 through August 7, the teachers will study in Delhi, Aligarh, and Jaipur, to gain a multifaceted understanding of ahimsa, the Jain principle of non-violence practiced, most famously, by Mahatma Gandhi. This program will turn India into a classroom where participants are immersed in a lifestyle of ahimsa. At Claremont Lincoln University students learn from the wisdom of the worlds religious traditions and the most compelling spiritual practices of the ages, so that they can apply them to a world in need, said Philip Clayton, Claremont Lincoln University Provost. In a world torn apart by violence, the nonviolent resistance of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is more important than ever. Teachers wield huge influence on future generations. We are really excited to launch the first training in the practice of ahimsa for high school teachers across the United States. A grant from the Uberoi Foundation enables Claremont Lincoln to publicize this program to high school teachers in North America. Funds from the International School for Jain Studies, Claremont Lincolns partner school in India, will heavily subsidize the costs of food, lodging and studies, so that the high school teachers will pay far below the actual cost of the trip. For more information visit: www.ClaremontLincoln.org

Vivek Oberoi, Sonali Bendre & Anurag Basu roped in to judge show

TOIFA hosts event bringing female thought leaders together

Vancouver, BC: In celebration of International Womens Day on March 8th, organizers of The Times of India Film Awards (TOIFA) assembled an evening of thought provoking discussion and exciting entertainment, bringing together some of the most beloved female entertainment icons and business leaders from India and British Columbia. Held at the River Rock Casino Resort Show Theatre on Saturday, March 2nd, the TOIFA Womens Day event was a global gathering dedicated to celebrating the spirit and power of women. The women participating and attending this event were from various backgrounds, industries and ages yet each one had an impactful story to tell and has made a significant difference to the world. The exclusive event, hosted by renowned CBC news reporter Belle Puri, featured an in-depth panel discussion on top issues facing women globally today, with a number of high profile participants from India including Dia Mirza, former Miss Asia Pacific and Actress; Perizaad Zorabian, Entrepreneur and Actress; and Diana Hayden, Former Miss World and Actress, along with some of British Columbias top female leaders including Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development; Shushma Datt, Entrepreneur; and Dr. Shimi Kang, Clinical Associate Professor, University of British Columbia. Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development said, "Today's forum reminds us that as British Columbians, South Asians, and as women, there is much more that unites us than divides us. I hope this event is just the beginning of many career-building experiences and life enriching relationships."

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US AFFAIRS

March 9-15, 2013

Jeb Bush mulls 2016 Presidential run

Washington: With former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (R) leaving the door open to a 2016 presidential run, the odds appear to be rising that we could have an epic battle between two of the nation's most dominant political families. In other words, a Bush vs. (Hillary) Clinton. Jeb Bush has been making the media rounds while promoting his new book on immigration this week and dropping hints about 2016. But he isn't exactly the Republican version of Hillary Clinton. For one thing, he's been out of politics since 2006 and has kept a comparatively low profile over the years. His approval ratings are nowhere near the levels she's been posting in recent polls. And he probably wouldn't clear the Republican field the way Hillary would clear the Democratic field. Here are some of the factors making his path to the nomination a bit more challenging than hers: Certainly, the famous surname third, rather than the second, president from his immediate family. Moreover, Hillary would still be able to portray her candidacy as groundbreaking and novel (as she did in 2008), since she'd be vying to become America's first female president. If anyone can unite the Republican Party right now, it may be Jeb. But that's a big "if." Despite recently tweaking his position on immigration reform, he's not a "tea party" politician and may still have to fight to get the support of his party's conservative base. He has taken positions in the past that aren't always in line with those on the right (such as refusing to sign Grover Norquist's "pledge" not to raise taxes), and over the course of the past year has castigated his party repeatedly for alienating minorities and other groups of voters. Working in Bush's favor is the fact that Republicans seem to realize that the long, drawn-out primary process in 2012 hurt their previous nominee, Mitt Romney, by forcing him to endure too many debates, spend too much money, and adopt too many far-right positions that then hurt him in the general election. But whether they'll change the calendar for 2016 is unclear. He's facing much stiffer intraparty competition. Republicans have a very strong bench of candidates. Sen. Marco Rubio, Bush's Florida protg, is a rising star in the party, and is already acting like a candidate. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie may not be beloved by conservatives, but he's one of the most popular governors in the country and has enough star power to seize the spotlight. House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan is still a hero to many on the right for his willingness to tackle entitlement reform. And Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, while more of a dark horse, has the political instincts and media savvy to complicate things for everyone else.

Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush

brings a host of advantages an instant political and fundraising network, and no stature gap to contend with. On the other hand, the Bush brand comes with a ton of baggage, and Republicans know it. Former President George W. Bush left office with an approval rating in the low 20s, amid two unpopular wars and a tanking economy (unlike former President Bill Clinton, who

left office with the highest approval rating of any modern president). There's a reason President Bush's name was barely mentioned at last summer's GOP convention (unlike President Clinton, who was one of the Democrats' marquee speakers). While both Hillary and Jeb would have to contend with "dynasty" charges, but it's likely to be a bigger problem for Jeb, who would be the

N. Korea threatens pre-emptive nuclear attack on US

Seoul: Now, North Korea is threatening to launch a pre-emptive nuclear strike on America. The threat, attributed to a spokesman from North Korea's foreign ministry, was carried by the country's central news agency and broadcast Thursday. The ministry spokesman is quoted as saying that because "the US is about to ignite a nuclear war, our revolutionary armed forces will be exercising our right to pre-emptive nuclear attack against the strongholds of invaders in order to protect our supreme interest. Earlier in the week, a four-star general went on television to announce North Korea next Monday would abrogate the 1953 armistice, which halted the three-year devasexpressing concern about Pyongyang's threat to cancel the cease-fire agreement. He noted [that] as leader of the U.N. Command on the peninsula he is "charged to fully enforce the conditions of the armistice." The cease-fire document was signed by military commanders from China and North Korea on one side and the U.S.-led U.N. Command on behalf of the international community. South Korea was not a signatory. The two Koreas have since remain divided, no peace treaty was ever written and thus Seoul and Pyongyang never established diplomatic relations. The United States maintains more than 28,000 military personnel in South Korea.

Dominican escort recants sex claims on Senator Menendez

tating Korean civil war. North Korea has made no secret it is incensed about fresh sanctions against it by the UN Security Council. It is also expressing strong displeasure with annual military drills under way involving American and South Korean forces. The North claims the joint exercises are a pretext to a nuclear attack by the United States. The commander of U.S. forces in South Korea, General James Thurman, issued a statement

With Sequester, social services brace for cuts

New York: No one in New York City knows exactly how much local social services will be cut back due to the federal budget sequester which went into effect March 1. However, as the federal cuts take effect over the coming months, budgets for many state, city and private social service agencies that help vulnerable populations will be impacted. The sequester was designed by Congress to cut spending across nearly every area of the federal budget. When it began to take effect last Friday, it sent state and city governments, which depend in part on federal funding, and private sector social service agencies that receive federal grants, scrambling for ways to make up a projected shortfall. It aint going to be good. That we know for sure, says David Rivel of theJewish Board of Family and Children Services, which serves 30,000 New Yorkers every year with addiction counseling, homeless services, transportation for the developmentally disabled, mental health care and violence prevention education. Rivel says many clients need help in more than one of these areas, and a stressor in one aspect of life may increase the need for help in another. There are many people who are leading lives on the edge and if you push in any one place in the system, you are going to have impacts in other places," he says. Sequestration could also threaten funding for Head Start, a popular federal program which provides education programs for young children, ages three to five, living at or below the poverty line. Cutbacks would be especially catastrophic for New York City children, according to Nancy Wackstein of United Neighborhood Houses of New York, an umbrella association for 38 community centers and social service agencies, especially since state and city education budgets have already been slashed drastically in recent years. I think everybody in the United States has a stake in whether our children do well in school," Wackstein says, "whether they are going to graduate from high school, whether they are going to be able to succeed in the global marketplace. And so what you are doing is cutting yourself off at the knees here. Wackstein also fears for New Yorkers who are depending on federal funds to recover from Hurricane Sandy, which flooded the low-lying coastal areas of the city last October where many low income families live.

New Jersey Senator (D) Robert Menendez

Santo Domingo: A Dominican woman who previously stated in a video that she was paid to have sex with Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey now says the allegations were false, according to a sworn statement released by a lawyer on Monday. The notarized affidavit was distributed by a prominent Dominican lawyer and friend of Menendez, Vinicio Castillo, who said it had been handed over to prosecutors. Castillo is not acting as the lawyer to the woman. In her sworn statement, the woman, Nexis de los Santos Santana, denied ever meeting Menendez and said she never agreed to be filmed. Menendez, a Cuban-American Democrat who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, won re-election to a second term last year. He has repeatedly

denied the sex claims, calling them "politically motivated" smears. Unsubstantiated reports, first published on the conservative Daily Caller website, alleged that Salomon Melgen, a Dominican-born Florida doctor, provided Menendez with free trips aboard his private plane to the Dominican Republic where Menendez allegedly engaged in sex with underage prostitutes. The original videotaped interview with the woman features her saying that Menendez paid her for sex and that she was cheated out of the full amount he had agreed to pay. But according to the affidavit released on Monday, the woman now says she was paid to read from a prepared text and was videotaped without her consent.

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TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Mother Teresa humanitarian image a 'myth: Canadian academics

New York: A new study by Canadian academics says Mother Teresa was a product of hype who housed the poor and sick in shoddy conditions, despite her access to a fortune. The Times of India, reporting on the controversial essay, wrote that the authors asserted Mother Teresa saw beauty in the downtrodden's suffering and was far more willing to pray for them than provide practical medical care. Meanwhile, researchers say, the Vatican engaged in a PR ploy as it threw aside concerns about her suspicious financial dealings and contacts to forgo the five-year waiting period to beatify her. One of the researchers, Serge Larivee of the University of Montreal's department of psychoeducation, told the school's website, Given the parsimonious managesions in 100 countries at the time of her death, but that the majority of patients were not cared for properly and many were left to die, according to the university website. In addition, the Vatican is said to have ignored a doctor's assertions when it concluded that a Mother Teresa miracle healed a woman who had tuberculosis and an ovarian cyst. Researchers Carole Senechal of the University of Ottawa and Larivee and Genevieve Chenard from the University of Montreal came to their conclusions by examining 96 percent of the originally researched, published works about Teresa, according to the U of M website. Their findings are to be published in French-language journal Studies in Religion/Sciences. Some of their references included medical journals and British journalist Christopher Hitchens, who called Mother Teresa a "fraud." Other researchers have criticized Mother Teresa's efforts in the past. Mother Teresa: A Biography, written by Meg Greene and published in 2004, recounts an article by the Lancet medical journal that outlined the neglect and lack of expertise in a Calcutta facility established by Mother Teresa. The website of the Nobel Peace Prize, which Mother Teresa won in 1979, takes a far more positive view of her deeds. It celebrates her early work in Calcutta's slums and credits her order and its outgrowths with providing "effective help to the poorest of the poor in a number of countries." Indeed, the U of M paper even concedes that one of her legacies is the generation of humanitarians she inspired.

The Times of India, wrote that the authors of the controversial study asserted Mother Teresa saw beauty in the downtrodden's suffering and was far more willing to pray for them than provide practical medical care.

ment of Mother Teresa's works, one may ask where the millions of dollars for the poorest of the poor

have gone? The research paper claims that the celebrated nun had 517 mis-

Solzhenitsyn exhibit to open in small Vermont town

Washington: A small town in the US state of Vermont has voted to create a permanent exhibit to its most famous resident, Russian writer and Nobel laureate Alexander Solzhenitsyn, who lived there for 17 years after his expulsion from the Soviet Union. "We hope to introduce people who may not know much about Mr. Solzhenitsyn to what his works were about, what his philosophy and achievements were, including the very rich history he had of both adversity and productive writing," said Rich Svec, town manager of Cavendish, Vermont. Residents of Cavendish, which has a population of around 1,400, approved a proposal to take over a historic church that will house the exhibit. Solzhenitsyn, whose book "The Gulag Archipelago" exposed the horrors of Stalin's prison camps to the outside world, was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1970 and he was expelled from the Soviet Union four years later. Solzhenitsyn settled into a secluded life in the town in 1977 and left Cavendish in 1994 to return to Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union. He died outside Moscow in

HIV cure of kid raises hopes tempered with caution

By Arun Kumar Washington: The report of an American toddler "functionally cured" of HIV has raised hopes of a breakthrough in the global fight to end the AIDS epidemic, but researchers suggest treating the development with caution. Calling it "The Intriguing Case of a Baby Cured of HIV", The New York Times editorially said: "There are reasons to treat this apparent breakthrough cautiously." "Researchers must still demonstrate conclusively that the baby had truly been infected and was not simply prevented from absorbing its mother's infection - a process achieved routinely in many babies," it said. "They must also show that this is not an exceptional, non-replicable case with an atypical baby, but that the same treatment would work in other newborns," the influential US daily said. Doctors cited by USA Today agreed that extending the success in curing the 2-year Mississippi girl infected with HIV at birth "will be a challenge". Noting that more than 300,000 babies a year worldwide are born infected with HIV, researchers cautioned that "it will likely take years before they're able to extend that success to a broader community of patients, if ever". Doctors credit the child's cure to early treatment; her physicians began treatment soon after delivery, which is the standard of care for the child of an untreated, HIV-positive mother. Most adults can't benefit from such early therapy, because they typically don't even learn that they're infected for months or years, USA Today said citing Rana Chakraborty, an associate professor of pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine. While the child's story has been hailed as a victory for science, Chakraborty said the case also illustrates the single greatest challenge in treating AIDS: actually getting care to patients. Delivering on the promise of scientific breakthroughs has been a challenge not just in developing countries of Africa, but in the US, the daily said. Only 28 percent of people of the 1.2 million HIV-positive Americans have been diagnosed and treated successfully so that their levels of virus are undetectable, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, CNN said the toddler's case could have wide-ranging effects on the global fight to end the AIDS epidemic. "If we can replicate this in other infants ... this has huge implications for the burden of infection that's occurring globally," Deborah Persaud, a pediatrician at the Johns Hopkins Children's Center was quoted as saying. "For the unfortunate ones who do get infected, if this can be replicated, this would offer real hope of clearing the virus," added Persaud the lead author of a report on the toddler's case. "We are enthusiastic about the potential of this case, but it is one case and it needs to be replicated and confirmed through future studies and clinical trials," said Meg Doherty, the WHOs Department of HIV/AIDS coordinator of treatment and care, as cited by CNN.

Alexander Solzhenitsyn lived in Cavendish, VT, for 17 years before returning to Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union. He was visited by Russian President Vladimir Putin. 2008 at the age of 89. "We would like to have written materials as well as some displays that might include interactive videos," said Svec, who has served as town manager since 1988. "There are a number of good videos out there that pertain to Mr. Solzhenitsyn's life, including his time in Vermont."The exhibit, expected to open next year, will include oral histories as well as photographs donated by Cavendish residents, Margo Caulfield, head of the local historical society, told Vermont Public Radio (VPR).

Twitter reaction doesn't reflect public opinion: Study

Washington: Media outlets across the US often use social media websites like Twitter to gauge the public's opinion. But a new study from the Pew Research Center has found that how people react on Twitter is often at odds with overall public opinion, leaving American news outlets presenting a skewed reality of how the public really feels, media experts told RIA Novosti. "Much of the difference may have to do with both the narrow sliver of the public represented on Twitter as well as who among that slice chose to take part in any one conversation," the study's authors said in their report. Using a computer software program that analyzes the context of social media posts, the year-long Pew study compared social media data with public opinion surveys focused on eight major American news events including the 2012 presidential election, debates, and speeches by US President Barack Obama. In the majority of the cases examined by the Pew Center, Twitter correspondence was inconsistent with public opinion, "a reflection of the fact that those who get news on Twitter - and particularly those who tweet news - are very different demographically from the public", Pew researchers said. For instance in February 2012, a US federal court ruled that a California law banning same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, researchers found that 46 percent of the reaction on Twitter was positive with only eight percent of Tweets reflecting a negative tone. But public opinion surveys measured in a Pew national poll had a very different outcome. Of those who had heard about the ruling 44 percent indicated they were disappointed or angry with the judgment while 33 percent of respondents said they were pleased with the outcome. Pew researchers found this trend remained true during the 2012 presidential campaign. During the first presidential debate when polls showed Republican contender Mitt Romney gave a better performance than Obama, the tweets about Romney were much more critical according to a Pew analysis of social media reaction. Social networking sites including Facebook and Twitter are primarily made up of younger users with a pro-Democratic lean, the Pew Center found. But when it comes to tweets, that bias is not always apparent, as overall negativity tends to dominate conversations. "The reaction on Twitter to Obama's second inaugural address and his 2012 State of the Union was not nearly as positive as public opinion," researchers reported. The lack of consistent similarities between Twitter reaction and public opinion is why media industry experts caution news outlets against providing social media reaction without additional context.k

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INDIA

March 9-15, 2013

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Farm loan waiver scam: PM assures action

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said stringent action would be taken if any irregularities are found in the Rs.52,000 crore farm loan waiver scheme of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. "The reference is to the CAG report on loan waiver scheme. This is a matter which would interest the PAC (Public Accounts Committee)," Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, when the issue was raised in the upper house. "If there are any irregularities which are found, I assure the house we will take stringent action against defaulters," the prime minister told the Rajya Sabha. He was responding after opposition Bharatiya Janata party raised the issue, calling it a "scam". "There has been account tampering, 34 lakh (over three milagitating and trooped near the chairman's podium, shouting slogans and calling the government "anti-farmer". Amid the din, Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien adjourned the house for 10 minutes. The Lok Sabha also saw an uproar with question hour adjourned over the issue. The lower house was adjourned till noon Wednesday after noisy protests by opposition parties over discrepancies in the Rs.52,000 crore farm loan waiver scheme of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. As soon as the house met, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party demanded suspension of question hour to discuss the "scam". The issue was taken up during zero hour in the Lok Sabha. Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj said: "All corruption charges earlier involved the government, but this is a case where bank officials siphoned off the money under the nose of the government". Samajwadi Party MP Reoti Raman Singh said the matter raised by the CAG report was very serious, one that involved farmers in a nation of farmers. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), in its report tabled in parliament on the "Implementation of Agricultural Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme, 2008" said there were irregularities in at least one in five cases. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government had announced a debt waiver for farmers across the country in 2008, a move analysts say helped the government win the 2009 general election.

The Comptroller and Auditor General in its report said there were irregularities in at least one in five cases

lion) farmers did not get the benefit. Farmers are committing suicide," BJP leader Ravishankar Prasad said, raising the issue in zero hour. "This is not just account fudg-

ing, this is a scam and it is very painful. Government should say why such irregularity was there," he said. Even as the prime minister assured action, BJP members kept

Are UP's Muslims disenchanted with Mulayam?

Lucknow: Is the crucial Muslim vote bank of the ruling Samajwadi Party (SP) drifting away? Even while party leaders say there is nothing that could "alienate the minorities", community leaders have begun to openly speak of their "early disenchantment" with SP chief Mulayam Singh Yadav and his son Akhilesh Yadav, the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. Minority leaders were angered by the SP chief's recent statement in parliament that the differences between his party and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could disappear in near future if it gave up certain issues that the SP had antipathy to. "What was the reason for Mulayam Singh to make such a unprovoked and unthought of statement," questioned Syed Tabrez, a cleric, who said he had voted for the SP in last year's assembly polls but was now vary of it. "Mulayam Singh in the past too has romanced anti-Muslim leaders like Kalyan Singh for his narrow political gains so what is the guarantee that he would not cheat the Muslims again for his own benefit," asked Naseemuddin Siddiqui, senior BSP leader and leader of opposition in the legislative council, charging that the SP was never serious about the Muslims' welfare. Syed Imam Bukhari, the Imam of Delhi Jama Maszid, has also been openly critical of the state government which he once helped come to power. Regretting the support

India to engage with new China confidently: PM

New Delhi: Noting that China was in the process of a leadership change, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said India should engage with the "new China" confidently and constructively in the spirit of national consensus. "We should engage the new China confidently and constructively in a spirit of national consensus. We will continue to manage our overall relations with China with maturity, recognising opportunities for common development and convergence of interests with China on many regional and global issues," the prime minister told the Lok Sabha. He was replying to the discussion on the motion of thanks on President Pranab Mukherjee's address to a joint sitting of both houses of parliament. According to the prime minister, the "new leaders" of China had conveyed to him their desire to strengthen the strategic communication and to forge a better future for bilateral relations. "The new leaders of China have conveyed to me their desire to strengthen our strategic communication and to forge a better future for our relations," said the prime minister.

The brutal killing of DSP Zia-ul-Haq in Pratapgarh has added to the drift

he extended to the SP in the 2012 state assembly polls by openly campaigning for it, Bukhari told IANS that if "the situation was allowed to continue in the way it is, the results of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls would be very 'mukhtalif' (different) from the 2012 state assembly polls." Pointing out the widening drift, he said that minorities were not feeling secure in Akhilesh Yadav's regime. In a complete turnaround from his stance during the assembly elections, he went on to call the state government a "zaalim hukumat" (cruel government). Muslim leaders also point out the rising instances of communal clashes since the new government has come to power. Between March 2012 and December 2012, the state government has admitted that 27 communal clashes, riots and other instances of violence had taken place in the state. These include three major communal riots at Mathura, Bareilly and Faizabad and minor commu-

nal flare ups in Pratapgarh, Ghaziabad, Bareilly, Sambhal, Bijnore, Allahabad, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Lucknow, Kushinagar, Sitapur, Bahraich, Sant Ravidas Nagar and Moradabad. The brutal killing of deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Zia-ul-Haq in Pratapgarh allegedly at the hands of a SP minster who later resigned has also added to the drift. With this incident, the minority leaders seem to have put the state government on notice. "This is how we are treated by this government," said Salim, a Muslim resident of the Deoria village to which the deceased police officer belonged. Mulayam Singh Yadav, however, has no apprehensions of being deserted by the Muslim community and says the state government was doing everything to not only bring the community at par with every other segment of the society but also to infuse a sense of security.

Chopper deal: ex-Aeromatrix official grilled

New Delhi: CBI questioned advocate Gautam Khaitan, former board member of Aeromatrix, in connection with the bribery allegations in Rs 3600 crore VVIP helicopter deal. CBI sources said Khaitan arrived at agency headquarters here and was being examined in connection with the deal. The agency has already questioned executives of Indian arms of Aeromatrix and IDS Infotech -- companies through which alleged bribes were routed from Mauritius and Tunisia in the garb of payments for engineering contracts.

CBI has registered a preliminary enquiry (PE) against 11 people

A reference to Khaitan was made in the Italian prosecutor's report filed in a court there. However, Khaitan has refuted all the allegations. CBI has registered a pre-

liminary enquiry (PE) against 11 people including former IAF chief SP Tyagi. Four companies including IDS Infotech and Aeromatrix have been named in the PE.

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March 9-15,2013

INDIA

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

No wedding bells for me: Rahul Gandhi

New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi, arguably India's most eligible bachelor, said he wasn't interested in marriage. Nor was he in the race for the prime minister's post this despite his recent appointment as Congress vice-president which was widely regarded as a precursor for him to be the party's candidate for the top job in the upcoming Lok Sabha election. In a rare free-wheeling conversation with Congress MPs and journalists in Parliament's Central Hall, Rahul said he did not wish to tie the knot and start a family as doing so would lead him to develop a vested interest in the status quo at the expense of his mission to democratize the Congress and decentralize its decision-making. "If I get married and have children, then I will become a status quoist and will be concerned about bequeathing my position to my children," he said. This was the first-ever confirmation of Rahul's much-speculated disinclination to marry and start a family. Rahul has so far fended off questions about his marriage by saying people would get to know about his plans at the appropriate time. He also denied that he aspired to be PM and lamented that Congress as well as other parties had degenerated into oligarchies where a tiny elite call the shots. Asked about his interest in the PM's job, he said, "Asking whether you want to be prime minister is to ask me a wrong question." The response defied the growing clamor from the ranks that he be declared the Congress's candidate for PMO in the 2014 party's spearhead for the 2014 polls. Congress immediately rushed to insist that Rahul's comments may not necessarily be the last word on whether he will accept the responsibility. Party spokesperson Rashid Alvi said, "All Congress workers desire that Rahul Gandhi become the PM one day and we are sure that our wish will be fulfilled." Alvi further said that what Rahul thought of himself was one thing and only reinforced that he did not hanker after any post for sure. "That he does not want to be the PM is his thinking. But as far as workers of Congress party are concerned, they want him and I am sure one day he will become the PM of the country," he added.

If I get married and have children, then I will become a status quoist, says Rahul Gandhi

polls. The disclaimer also comes at a time when the move to project Narendra Modi as BJP's candidate for the top job has gathered

momentum, and belies the assessment that Rahul's agreeing to Congress vice-president suggested that he had finally come around to be projected as the

'Sushma Swaraj more admired than Sonia Gandhi'

New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sushma Swaraj was voted as the most admired female politician followed by Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in a survey conducted by shaadi.com. The matrimonial website conducted the poll on the occasion of International Women's Day (March 8) to understand which successful Indian women are admired for striking a perfect balance between their career and their family life. Sushma Swaraj got 36.28 percent of the votes as the most admired female politician closely followed by Sonia Gandhi (33.62 percent) and Jayalalitha (23.01 percent), a statement said. The poll was conducted through 19,000 Indians. "The survey seems to indicate that the Indian youth admire women who despite their celebrity status, connect with the masses in the digital space. The poll is part of the constant research that shaadi.com conducts in its attempt to gauge the preferences of its members," said Gourav

UPA's dual power center affected growth: BJP

New Delhi: Asserting that there was a credibility crisis in the Congress-led UPA government, leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley said the "dual power centre" had affected the government's decisionmaking. "When the UPA came to power nine years ago, there was a buzz of excitement about India. The NDA had left power with an eight percent growth rate and now we may have less than a five percent growth rate. The atmosphere has changed from that of enthusiasm to a sense of cynicism about India," Jaitley said during a discussion on the motion of thanks to President Pranab Mukherjee for his address to the joint session of parliament on the opening day of the budget session. "It is time for the government to reflect. Was the UPA government's model right for the world's largest democracy? There was a leadership crisis and a credibility crisis. There was a crisis on how to formulate policies. Dual power centres cannot work for policy decisions," Jaitley said in the Rajya Sabha.

Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley

Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sushma Swaraj

Rakshit, chief operating officer (COO), shaadi.com. In the corporate sector, Pepsico's Indiaborn CEO Indra Nooyi got 71.63 percent votes as the most admired and successful businesswoman followed by Reliance Foundation chairperson Nita Ambani with 27.03 percent votes.

The BJP leader said it was time for the government to decide how it wanted to go down in history. "The UPA government has completed nine years. So much time is enough to change the course of a country. When the government enters its final year, it will have to decide how it wants history to write it," he said. Jaitley's comments came soon after Congress member Renuka Chowdhury lauded the government for helping the country sail through the global economic downturn.

UPA did better than NDA: Manmohan

to the discussion on the motion of thanks on President Pranab Mukherjee's address to a joint sitting of both houses of parliament. He also expressed the hope that people would vote the ruling UPA back to power in 2014 as they did in 2004 and 2009. Taking a dig at Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Rajnath Singh, the prime minister said: "Jo garajte hain, woh baraste nahin (thundering clouds do not produce rain)." Stating that the BJP had hurled the "choicest abuses" against the Congress leadership, the prime minister said he would not reply in "that language". Rajnath Singh had slammed the government in the house. The BJP's prime ministerial hopeful, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, had criticized the Congress and called it as "termites" and the prime minister as a "night watchman" at the BJP's national council meeting in Delhi. Manmohan Singh said the performance of the UPA against that of the NDA was better on many counts like agriculture, GDP, per capita consumption in rural areas, health, literacy and regional equality. The prime minister reminded the BJP that its "India Shining" campaign had been a disaster in the 2004 general elections and the opposition party did not gain by fielding senior leader L.K. Advani as its prime ministerial nominee in 2009. "The people will repeat what they did in 2009," the prime minister said. The prime minister reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring the dignity, safety and security of every woman in the country. Noting that the economy has faced a difficult situation in the past year, the prime minister said he aimed to achieve an average growth of eight percent during the 12th Five Year Plan, along with inclusive growth. "While our aim is to achieve an average GDP growth of 8 percent during the 12th Plan (2012-17), the focus will continue to remain on inclusive growth," he said.

Our work and performance are the best judges, says Manmohan Singh

New Delhi: An unusually aggressive Prime Minister Manmohan Singh took on the BJP saying the Congress-led UPA performed better than the BJP-led NDA and hoped

the ruling alliance would be voted back to power in 2014. "Our work and performance are the best judges," the prime minister told the Lok Sabha while replying

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

INDIA

March 9-15, 2013

13

Norah Jones leaves Delhi mesmerized

New Delhi: Singer Norah Jones left fans spellbound with her soulful voice as she performed for the first time in the capital this week. The show was opened by singer M.Ward, who played for almost an hour, before making way for Jones. Jones, 33 was greeted by a huge roar from fans as she appeared on the stage. Dressed in a black and white printed short dress, the singer said she was "excited to perform here". In a performance appearing magical due to the innovative lightning arrangement on the stage, Jones sang her famous numbers like "Happy Pills", "What am I to you" and "Rosie lullaby" and responded positively to the members of the animated audience who shouted "Norah I love you" and "You are great". Accompanied by two guitarists, a drummer and a keyboard player and even accompanying herself on the guitar and piano for some of the songs, Jones responded light-heartedly: "We can just sit here (on stage) and you guys can continue praising us." The daughter of late Indian sitar legend
Norah Jones, daughter of late Indian sitar legend Ravi Shankar, performing in New Delhi

Another gangrape, this time in moving auto

New Delhi: When she flagged down the share auto-rickshaw near the busy Shipra Mall, an important landmark in Indirapuram, the 19year-old woman did not feel uncomfortable, as its a common practice in the area. But the Class 12 student was later found gagged, beaten, gang-raped, robbed and then dumped at Galand village near National Highway 24 by three men between 20 and 24 years who later confessed to have stolen the vehicle.Police claim the victim, who was on her way home after meeting a friend, was forced by two of the men who posed as passengers to sit between them. They gagged her once the vehicle developed some mechanical fault near Khoda colony, 2 km from the mall, and stopped. Fault taken care of, the three-wheeler sped towards Ghaziabad city. And once it reached Galand, the men dragged the woman out, beat her up when she resisted, and then took turns to rape her, a police officersaid. Around 10.30pm, the three men fled the spot, but only after they had robbed the victim of whatever cash she had on her person and her mobile phone. The victim eventually made her way to a nearby dhaba, where some local residents called a PCR van. The police registered a case of abduction, rape, robbery and voluntarily causing hurt against the three. Later, two of the rapists, Ankit and Dabban, were arrested. They confessed they had gang-raped her. We are now waiting for the victims medical examination report, said circle officer Ran Vijay Singh.

Cabinet nod to services delivery bill

New Delhi: The union cabinet approved in principle a bill for time-bound delivery of public services like passports, certificates and ration cards to citizens, an official said. "The bill has been approved in principle by the cabinet," the official said. However, he said the draft bill would go back to the ministries of law, home affairs and personnel and training as it required fresh paraphrasing. This means that it need not go to the cabinet again and can be directly tabled in parliament. Since the bill involves financial matters, that aspect has to be further examined, the official added. According to the bill, which aims to bring greater transparency in administration, especially where the citizens have a direct interface with various government agencies, any failure in delivery of services will invite a penalty of Rs.250 per day subject to a maximum of Rs.50,000. The officials said the bill, once passed by parliament, will be binding on the states. They said once approved, the services delivery bill would prove much more effective in tackling corruption than the proposed anti-graft Lokpal bill, which was drafted after anti-graft protests of Anna Hazare in 2011 and sent to a standing committee for its consideration and suggestion.

Ravi Shankar and half sister of Anoushka Shankar, Jones also took out some time from singing to express appreciation for the audience's support. The singer has already performed in Mumbai as part of the 'A Summer's Day' music festival and will again perform here Wednesday before heading to Banglore for her final gig in India March 8. The Norah Jones India Tour produced by Only Much Louder is in partnership with Women's Cancer Initiative-Tata Memorial Hospital to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer in India.

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March 9-15, 2013

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

US to honor Delhi rape victim

The rape triggered country wide protests

New Delhi: The woman whose gang rape on a bus and death shocked India will be honored by the U.S. government with an International Women of Courage award for 2013. A State Department statement said that First lady Michelle Obama will join Secretary of State John Kerry in

honoring 10 women in Washington on March 8. The others include Malalai Bahaduri from Afghanistan, Julieta Castellanos from Honduras and Tibetan author Tsering Woeser from China. Gaurav Pandey, a brother of the 23-year-old Indian victim, says he is glad his sister's courage is being

honored. The rape triggered widespread protests in India. U.S. Embassy spokesman Peter Vrooman said Tuesday that the woman's parents had provided a statement that will be read on their behalf at the Washington ceremony. The US state department, which has decided to honor the Delhi rape victim with a posthumous bravery award, said the courageous 23-year-old physiotherapy intern "has become the foundation of a popular movement to end violence against women in India." "In the wake of her death...India's active civil society began advocating heavily for legislation and social programs to stem gender-based violence in all its forms and to ensure higher rape

conviction rates and gender-sensitive law enforcement and justice systems. Thanks to these efforts, the Indian government has begun to take action to follow through on those demands," read a citation released for the award. Her family will receive the award in Delhi. The Department of State's International Women of Courage Award annually recognizes women around the globe who have shown exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for women's rights and empowerment, often at great personal risk. Since the inception of this award in 2007, the Department of State has honored 67 women from 45 countries. The awardees for 2013 besides

Nirbhaya are Malalai Bahaduri, first sergeant, Afghan National Interdiction Unit (Afghanistan); Samira Ibrahim, coordinator, Know Your Rights (Egypt); Julieta Castellanos, rector, National Autonomous University of Honduras (Honduras); Josephine Obiajulu Odumakin, president, Campaign for Democracy (Nigeria); Elena Milashina, journalist, human rights activist (Russia); Fartuun Adan, executive director, Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre (Somalia); Tsering Woeser (Wei Se), Tibetan author, poet, blogger (China); Razan Zeitunah, human rights lawyer and founder, Local Coordination Committees (Syria) and Ta Phong Tan, blogger (Vietnam).

Geneva: There was a rare annual increase of nearly one percentage point in the global average number of women members of parliament (MPs) in 2012, Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) said in a statement released here ahead of international women's day. The statement credited reservations for the marginal increase. It said the increase "underlined once again that quotas remain pivotal to efforts redressing the gender deficit in politics." Releasing its annual analysis on the statistics on women MPs, IPU said 2012 represented a year of higher than usual level of progress on women's political participation. "The global average of women in parliaments by the end of 2012 stood at 20.3 per cent, up from 19.5 per cent in 2011. With the exception of 2007, the average annual rate of increase in recent years has been 0.5 percentage point," the statement said. The use of either legislated or voluntary quotas, in some of the 48 countries where elections were held in 2012, were largely responsible for the above-average increase of women MPs. Nine out of the top 10 countries which witnessed the highest

Rise in number of women MPs across world Turkmenistan to

gift women $14 on Women's Day

growth in the number of women MPs in their lower house of parliament had used quotas. "Although quotas remain contentious in some parts of the world, they remain key to progress on a fundamental component of democracy - gender parity in political representation," said Anders B. Johnsson, IPU secretary general. Highest electoral gains for women MPs were witnessed in Senegal, Algeria and Timor Leste, with all three countries using legislated quotas for the first time. With 31.6 percent women MPs, Algeria is now the first and only Arab country to have more than 30 percent women holding parliamentary seats. It was the highlight in a region which failed to deliver on the promise of democratic change in the Arab Spring countries of Egypt and Libya and which continues to have the lowest regional average of 13.2 percent.

Girls in Bihar village: We are no less important than men

Patna: Here a little story of women's defiance of tradition and "changing the mindset of men" from a Bihar village ahead of International Women's Day. Mania, about 150 km from here in Buxar district, has been following a novel tradition for the last three decades - of Hindu girls wearing the 'janeu' or sacred thread, which is otherwise the preserve of Brahmin men, to overcome gender and religious bias. Not only that, the 'janeu sanskar' ceremony at which the sacred thread is worn is being regularly held for these girls. "This three-decade old tradition has an interesting story. Vishwanath Singh, had set up a girls school in Mania village in 1972, at a time when women were discouraged from joining school. Undaunted, he started sending his four daughters to school, which encouraged and inspired others to follow suit. After that, Vishwanath Singh held the thread ceremony for his elder daughter. Later this practice was adopted by others and became a tradition in the village," said Sidheshwar Sharma, a social activist. Meera Kumari, the girl who began the practice, said that she and her three sisters still wear the sacred thread. "Wearing the janeu is a symbol that we are no less important than men," Meera Kumari, a school teacher, said. According to Sharma, the tradition has made the village famous for promoting education of girls and spreading awareness against female feticide. "Even this year, the 'janeu sanskar' ceremony was held for class 10 students Nisha Kumari and Prinka Kumari in the village," he added. More than two dozen girls in the village wear the sacred thread and attend school. "This tradition among girls has changed the mindset of men in the village, who never dare to discriminate against women." Sharma pointed out. This sacred thread signifies the transition from boyhood to manhood.

Moscow: Women in the former Soviet state of Turkmenistan will receive 40 manats (around $14) as a gift from the state ahead of the International Women's Day, celebrated March 8. According to a decree signed by President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, all women regardless of their age and occupation will get the bonus, turkmenistan.ru website reported. In addition, a total of 174 mothers of large families in the country will be honored ahead of the holiday.

Film festival to mark International Women's Day in Pune

Pune: The fourth edition of the Women's Film Festival focuses on female directors. The three-day event, starting March 8, will screen "Gulabi Gang," "Gangoobai" and "Firaaq", among others, to commemorate International Women's day, an organizer said. The fourth festival is being organized by city-based Aashay Film Club in association with the National Film Archive of India and Aayam, a group of women journalists from the city. "Aayam intends to bring to the fore issues related to women in various means. We believe that the visual media is very effective in reaching out to people, thus the idea of holding the film festival," said Manaswini Prabhune, Coordinator of Aayam. The festival will also celebrate 100 years of Indian Cinema along with International Women's Day and it will be inaugurated by actress and filmmaker Mrinal Kulkarni. This would be followed by the screening of the movie "Gulabi Gang", directed by Nishtha Jain. Some of the films that would be screened include "Firaaq", directed by Nandita Das; "Gangoobai" by Priya Krishnaswamy; "English Vinglish" by Gauri Shinde and Suhasini Mulay's documentary "Bhramawadinee." Every year, Aayam honors a woman film critic or journalist. This year, the Aayam Woman Journalist Award will be given to Deepa Gehlot, a film critic and journalist. It will be presented by Sudhir Nandgaonkar, film journalist and pioneer of the film society movement. Aayam will also felicitate Shyamala Vanarase for her book on Satyajit Ray.

Aayam Woman Journalist Award will be given to Deepa Gehlot

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

TRISTATE COMMUNITY

March 9-15, 2013

15

Fond farewells for Ambassadors Puri and Prabhu Dayal

Coincidentally, two seniormost Indian diplomats in New York retired on the same day, February 28. Last month saw many farewells for Hardeep Singh Puri, Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, and Prabhu Dayal, Indias Consul General in New York.
s Consul General Prabhu Dayal was retiring from the Indian Foreign Service by February end, many Indian community organizations bid farewell to the man who ensured that the community could think of the Consulate in New York as its second home. The Indian National Overseas Congress (I) hosted a reception for him in Manhattan. Many speakers representing various segments of the community, caste and religion lauded his achievements in successfully reaching out to every segment of the community by his open door policy.George Abraham, president of INOC, thanked him for his dedication and diligent service to the community over the years. He was also complimented for launching a series of cultural events called Jewel of India to promote art and culture at the consulate. At another event, Mr Dayal said, The Indian Diaspora should stay engaged with India and the strength of the community will only be truly realized when there is unity. He advised the Indian community to continue the process of dialogue as that was the best method to resolve any complex issues. At the farewell event of India-America Chamber of Commerce, Rajiv Khanna, its President, said that Amb. Dayal has been one of the key pillars of the great transformation in the U.S.-India economic relationship which has created a win-win partnership between the two countries. Amb. Dayal has decided to shift base to India, but he has bought a house in South Jersey where he intends to visit in summers.

UN correspondents raise a toast to Indias outgoing Permanent Representative to United Nations, Hardeep S. Puri (left)

fter a distinguished diplomatic career spanning 39 years, Amb. Hardeep Singh Puri, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, demitted office on February 28. Three days before the D-Day, Puri, who always enjoyed cordial relations with the international media, invited them over and thanked them for their affection for him. In turn, the mediapersons felt that working with Amb. Puri was always a pleasure. Amb. Puri had joined the Indian Foreign Service at the age of 22. He had joined as PR in March 2009 and had superannuated in 2012. But he was given an extension for one year. During

his tenure, India became a non-permanent member of the Security Council. India also had two Presidencies of the UNSC, in August 2011 and again in November 2012, and took up key issues such as peacekeeping, terrorism, women, peace, piracy and development, and received excellent reviews. During Puris eventful and historic term, Indias push for a permanent seat on the Security Council also got the maximum attention and support. He won many friends for India and minimized opposition to the nation, which all contributed to Indias strength at the world body. He is planning to continue to live in New York and re-invent himself.

Consul General Prabhu Dayal accompanied by Mrs Chandini Dayal and others cuts a cake marking his retirement at an event supporting the Smithsonian Indian American Heritage project.

Amb. Prabhu Dayal sharing his feelings on remitting office at a farewell on Long Island in the presence of INOC (I) leaders.

Meet the new ambassador to UN and Consul General in New York

A
soke Kumar Mukerji has been appointed as the new Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations at New York. Mukerji replaces Amb. Hardeep Puri, whose term has probably been the most action packed and historic for any PR in recent years. It was during Puris tenure that India was elected as a non- permanent member of the Security Council, which India also presided. Handpicked by External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid for one of the most important diplomatic assignments, Mukerji was hitherto a Special Secretary in the External Affairs Ministry. He has served as Consul General in Dubai and as Deputy High Commissioner in London. He was also private secretary to Salman Khurshid during the latters previous stint as a Minister of State.

Asoke Kumar Mukerji, Permanent Representative of India to the UN at New York.

nyaneshwar Mulay (pronounced Gyaneshwar) is the designated Indian Consul General in New York. He was hitherto the Indian High Commissioner in Maldives. The diplomat has also been widely recognized as a prominent thought leader, and author. Mulay is a well-known writer having written over 15 books in Marathi that have been translated in Arabic, Urdu, Kannada and Hindi. He has won many awards including from the Hindi Sahitya Akademi of Delhi. He is also the inspiration behind many socio-educational projects including Balodyan, an orphanage in his native village

Dnyaneshwar Mulay, Indian Consul General, New York

in Maharashtra and Dnyaneshwar Mulay Education Society in Pune, working with innovative concepts of global education.

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March 9-15, 2013

ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Bollywood erotica goes 3D

Actor Sherlyn Chopra in 'Kamasutra 3D'

Mumbai: If lip-locking and lovemaking were not enough, filmmakers are now getting bolder by shooting erotica in 3D. "Kamasutra 3D" and "Jism 3" would help you get that experience. When a movie is shot with 3D, the images have three-dimensional form or appearance and the viewers tasted that with Shah Rukh Khan-starrer superhero sci-fi movie "RA.One" and Vikram Bhatt-directed horror thriller "Haunted 3D". After wooing movie buffs with sci-fi and horror films in 3D, filmmakers have taken a daring step by planning erotica in 3D formats perhaps to get more footfalls and better turnover at the box office.

An experienced Anubhav Sinha, who had directed "RA.One", says his next will be an erotica in 3D. "The erotic thriller will be my official tribute to Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt...my film will be shot in 3D," said the filmmaker who has roped in Maqbool Khan, of "Kabootar" fame", to direct the film. The shooting will start in April and Sinha said that he will make it with new faces. 3D is not a loss-making proposition as proved by the success of Bipasha Basu-starrer "Raaz 3" and "Haunted 3D", which didn't have big names, but did good business. "Raaz 3" was produced by Mahesh and

Mukesh Bhatt, and now Pooja Bhatt follows the footsteps of her father and uncle respectively with "Cabaret". "I might shoot 'Cabaret' in 3D. 'Cabaret' is a musical where there is a cabaret dancer and a man (Randeep Hooda) who comes from the crime world... These two worlds collide and that's the kind of the act that we have planned," she said. She also has "Jism 3" in the pipeline, which she plans to shoot next year. Controversy queen Sherlyn Chopra, who posed nude for the Playboy magazine, is busy shooting her debut film "Kamasutra", again being shot in 3D format by director Rupesh Paul.

'Chenu' set for Cannes' L'Atelier

Sunil Dutt first angry young man: Amitabh

'Kai Po Che!' not Modi propaganda

Manjeet Singh's debut film 'Mumbai Cha Raja'

anjeet Singh's feature film project "Chenu" has been selected by the Cannes International Film Festival's L'Atelier section. It is one of 15 projects selected from across the globe, and the director considers it an honor. "It's an honor to be selected in the most powerful co-production event on planet, which will speed up the process of completion of funds and bring on-board reputed producers, sales agents and distributors," Singh said in a statement. His debut film "Mumbai Cha Raja" had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. His new project narrates the tale

of a low-caste Dalit boy in rural north India and how he is drawn into the Naxal movement. Singh believes being chosen for the ninth edition of L'Atelier "is a stamp of approval that 'Chenu' belongs to best of world cinema." "Unfortunately our selection committees were not able to gauge (that) and had to face multiple rejections. It also points out the faith Cannes authority have in my directorial abilities, after they saw 'Mumbai Cha Raja'," that I will be able to do justice to this wild story I have conceived, which also happens to be first feature screenplay and very unconventional," added Singh.

egastar Amitabh Bachchan, who earned the tag of "Angry Young Man" after his films "Zanjeer" and Late actor"Namak Haraam", politician believes the first Sunil Dutt actor to hold the title is not him but Sunil Dutt who portrayed an angry Birju in the 1957-epic "Mother India". In the Mehboob Khan-directed "Mother India", Sunil Dutt played the rebel son of a woman, played by Nargis, who works hard for survival with her two sons after her husband disappears. "'Namak Haram' bore seeds of the anger that was next seen in 'Zanjeer', and the subsequent titling of the epithet 'Angry Young Man' by the media," Big B wrote on his Facebook page. "But I have always believed that the first powerful depiction or in a sense the birth of the so called 'Angry Young Man', was designed by Mehboob Saheb (Mehboob Khan) in 'Mother India', where the character Birju, played so brilliantly by Sunil Dutt, was depicted," he wrote. While "Zanjeer" featured Amitabh as inspector Vijay Khanna, "Namak Haraam" saw him as Vikram Maharaj.

A scene from 'Kai Po Che'

irector Abhishek Kapoor is upset with those who see "Kai Po Che" as a tool spreading Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi propaganda. The filmmaker, who has based his third directorial venture on Chetan Bhagat's bestseller "The 3 Mistakes of My Life", which tells the story of three friends living in Ahmedabad, took to Twitter to express his disappointment. "Strange how some people are seeing 'Kai Po Che!' as Modi propaganda. They are obviously missing the point and looking for something that it's not..." he tweeted. Reportedly, some people have

been criticising "Kai Po Che!" for watering down the 2002-Godhra riots incident in the film by depicting it as something that was the sole decision of one the Hindu local leaders. However, Kapoor describes "Kai Po Che!" as a film for youth. "'Kai Po Che!' is about the innocence of youth and their coming of age... not a witch hunt... accept it for what it is... and you might see the light," he tweeted. Starring, Sushant Singh Rajput, Raj Kumar Yadav, Amit Sadh and Amrita Puri, the film came out last week and is doing well at the box office.

'I Me Aur Main': let down by characters

W
hat do you do with a selfobsessed guy like Ishaan who shoulders no responsibility except that to his iron-board torso and matinee-idol posturings, who takes everyone from Mom, Sis and girlfriend to success, friendship and karma for granted? John Abraham plays the kind of narcissist whose life is just waiting to fall apart. It does, soon enough leaving him... well, high and not quite dry. For much of its economical playing-time, "I Me Aur Main" glides along innocuously in an

Review
urbane corporotized haze where women are allowed to be successful alongside men, though that success comes with a price. Hence to no one's surprise, Anushka (Chitrangda) locks Ishaan (John) out of her home and life. Ishaan doesn't waste a moment in moving into a new apartment where he begins anew with a flirty flighty neighbor Gauri (Prachi Desai). This is a dangerously thin ice for a desi romcom to tread on. The principal characters do not aspire to

Chitrangda and John Abrahim in 'I Me Aur Main'

any higher ground of existence beyond what they are allotted by writers. Director Kapil Sharma's film derives some succor and marginal strength from urbane dialogues that the characters throw at one another at work and in parties. Indeed the most interesting character to be obtained in this rompcom is that of Ishaan's frosty sareeclad, self-styled diva boss Beena (Raima Sen) who takes over the business and has poor Ishaan by his balls. The 'b' word for such pushy sarcastic women is not discounted.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD

March 9-15, 2013

17

Wait for 'Krrish 3' action: Hrithik

uperstar actor Hrithik Roshan has some big plans for this year. Among his big projects are Fox Star Studios Indian remake of the Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz-starrer 'Knight and Day' with Katina Kaif and 'Krrish 3.' Here are excerpts from an exclusive interview with Hrithik: Q. 2012 has been an eventful year for you, what is the one highlight that stands out? The opportunity to work on a film as poignant and engaging as Agneepath was a wonderful start to 2012 its simply a dream film for any actor. 2012 has been an awesome year. Resuming my role as Krrish was nostalgic and very exciting. To end the year with homage of films at an esteemed festival, the Marrakech Film Festival, was such a humbling experience. All in all 2012 was a high throughout and I am looking very forward to starting 2013

Interview
with a bang! Q. 2013 sees the third installment of Krrish, a franchise that you are renowned for, what can the audience expect? I think the audiences are going to be in for a treat with Krrish if you loved the first two films, you will adore this edition. Krrish is our home production and was like coming home J I did miss Krrishs character. Its still early to comment fully on latter film I know the audiences will be in for a fun rise with Katrina and I. Q People like Hrithik as a dancer, the dance seems to be missing in his movies these days, is it intentional? Not at all! However clichd this sounds, I guess the scripts Ive currently been working on just havent demanded any breakthrough dance sequences. But never say

Actor Hrithik Roshan

never though! Q. You have millions of fans the world over, whom are you the biggest fan of and why? Its going to be difficult to pinpoint a particular place. All the fans around the world have been so supportive and loving, I just cant thank all my fans for the ongoing support. Q. What can audiences look forward to seeing from you in the coming year? 2013 is going to be a busy year. I will be working on various projects and some great films too. We are wrapping up Krrish which releases later this year and then in March I start filming with Katrina for the Indian remake of 'Knight and Day'. I am really looking forward to 2013 as it will be another year packed with lots of excitement, but also a lot of hard work and early morning film shoots!

ackky Bhagnani launched the Indian Gangnam style song for his film 'Rangrezz' in Dharavi, one of Asia's largest slums. "I thought we should do something different and there is so much love in Dharavi. Mostly Dharavi is portrayed for it's negatives, so I thought of doing something for Dharavi and put it on the international map for the good and right reasons," he said here. Directed by Priyadarshan, Rangrezz also stars Priya Anand and Rajpal Yadav. The film hits theatres March 21. The 28-year-old, who wowed everyone with his dancing skils in F.A.L.T.U. and Ajab Gazabb Love, hopes post Rangrezz, he

Jackky Bhagnani does lavani on Gangnam J

'Maha Kumbh a crash course in Hinduism'

A poster of 'Rangrezz'

gets recognition for his acting skills. "My career has been running on

dance for some time now, I hope after Rangrezz, it starts moving on acting," he said.

Kabir Khan promotes 'Ek Tha Tiger' in Japan

Director Kabir Khan

irector Kabir Khan is in Tokyo, Japan to promote "Ek Tha Tiger" ahead of its release there and says he can't wait to see Salman Khan speaking Japanese. The Salman-Katrina Kaif starrer hit the screens here Aug 15 last year and broke records by earning Rs.33 crore on its opening day. Now the the spy thriller will be screened in Tokyo March 7. "Flying to Tokyo tonight for the release of 'Ek Tha Tiger' in Japan. I can't wait to see Salman speaking Japanese on screen," Khan tweeted Saturday. "'Ek Tha Tiger' is releasing all over Japan. I will be travelling to Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo for interviews and publicity. Looking forward to it," he further posted. "Ek Tha Tiger" was Khan's third directorial venture after "New York" and "Kabul Express".

Documentary filmmaker Diego Bunuel

rench documentary maker Diego Bunuel, who spent 21 days at the ongoing Maha Kumbh, the largest gathering of people in the world, in Allahabad, said it was more like a crash course in Hinduism. Diego, 38, was in the holy city in Uttar Pradesh to shoot an hourlong documentary "Inside The Mahakumbh" that covers the scale, details, quirks and moments of Maha Kumbh. It will be aired on National Geographic Channel March 4 and he will host it for the channel. Speaking about his experiences at the Kumbh, Diego said "the trip was like receiving a crash course in Hinduism". "Unlike Europe, where religion needs revival, in India it's very

much alive and has a diversity that can encompass everyone," added Diego, who is of SpanishFrench origin and grew up in the US harbouring a passion for travel and journalism. He was also impressed by the logistics of the event, the facilities being provided at the location and the way the authorities managed such huge crowds with promptness. He felt it was "nothing less than a commendable military operation". The filmmaker also felt that there is no need to revive the religion and culture here because he saw people "living it as part of their daily life". Dubbed in 26 languages, the documentary will be broadcast in 68 countries.

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March 9-15, 2013

NEWS IN PIX

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Photos of the Week

Bollywood star Madhuri Dixit Nene launching her virtual dance academy in Oshiwara, Mumbai on February 25. Kerala women celebrated the famed Attukal Pongala festival with devotion and fervor on March 5. They lined up the roads in Thiruvananthapuram to cook their offering ("pongala") on makeshift stoves at the famed Attukal Bhagawathi temple. Guinness World Records cites it as the single largest gathering of women in the world. In the background is the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple with a treasure trove of Rs 1 lakh crore. Jat community members at a demonstration for `Jat Reservation at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on March 5.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy presenting a check of Rs 50 lakh to Saina Nehwal for winning Thailand Open and Indonesian Open Badminton Championships in 2012 at CM residence on March 1.

Members of the military escort Venezuelan National Guard hold a security fence during the funeral procession in honor of the larger-than-life Venezuelan President, Hugo Chavez, on the streets of Caracas, capital of Venezuela, on March 6. He died Tuesday after fighting cancer for almost two years.

e I Won`t Dravid at th ptain Rahul cricket ca March 5. Former Indian mpaign in Bengaluru on onk ca H

Self defense training give n to blind gi by NGO Khus rls hiya Seva Sa nstha at a workshop in Mumbai on M arch 6.

Bollywood actor Salman Khan made an appearance at the Splash Fashion League in Dubai in support of the brand Splash, which are the sole distributors of Being Human in the Region on Feb 28.

Members of Rajajinagar Assembly Congress Committee Information Technology Cell protesting March 5 against Gujarat CM Narendra Modi for his statement in poor taste of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in Bengaluru. (Photos: IANS)

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

OP-ED

March 9-15, 2013

19

Indian defense spending require massive boost

By Commander (Retd.) Neil Gadihoke ndia's defense budget has been hardest hit, as the government scrambled to cut costs given the bleak economic growth of five percent -- the lowest in a decade. The cut came also against the backdrop of a history of under-utilization of allocation by the defense ministry and the political hesitancy to conclude deals. Unveiling the national budget for the next fiscal, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram proposed a defense spending of Rs.2.03 trillion ($37.45 billion). This is a 5.2-percent increase from 2012-13, when the budget stood at Rs.1.93 trillion. Since the allocation and utilization may change in the course of the fiscal year, the revised estimates accord a more realistic estimate of funds outflow. Accordingly, the budget hike, in real terms, amounts to Rs.251.68

billion ($4.57 billion) over the revised estimates of Rs.1.78 trillion for the fiscal ending March 31, which amounts to a 14-percent increase. In 2012-13, the increase had been 17 percent. Figures also reveal that the defense ministry suffered a budget cut of over Rs.140 billion last year, a majority of which -- over Rs.100 billion -- had been marked for procurement of new defense hardware. India's annualized inflation rate of around 6 percent implies that the military has actually gained little from this year's increase. The U.S. defense expenditure amounted to $500 billion last year and China's was $110 billion. In comparison, India's defense budget of $38 billion is humble and barely 1.79 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP). This is a record low for India in at least three decades, with the figure dropping considerably from 3.16 percent of the GDP in 1987.

This year's allocation is also the lowest in terms of percentage of the total annual government expenditure

This year's allocation is also the lowest in terms of percentage of the total annual government expenditure. This year's defense budget is 12.23 percent of the estimated spending of the government in the upcoming fiscal year, considerably down from the 15.79 percent in 1999 -- and lower from last year's 12.97 percent.

Despite this dismal allocation, Defense Minister A.K. Antony put up a brave front by saying taking into account the "difficult economic situation both at home and abroad" this was the best possible outlay. "Factoring the current economic scenario, he (the finance minister) has been fair to the defence sector also by increasing

the budget and assuring that should there be any urgent need in future the same would be provided." In spite of checks and balances incorporated into the defence acquisition process, allegations of scams are embarrassingly regular. The latest news headlines relate to alleged kickbacks for the Agusta Westland helicopters bought from Italy for use by key dignitaries, for which a former air force chief is alleged to have been involved. The investigations are yet inconclusive. Consequently, political hesitancy to conclude defense deals is substantial, especially in a juncture like the present one, where general elections are only a year away. This is certainly not a welcome scenario. Indian defense spending will require a massive boost both in terms of allocation and utilization if the rhetoric of the country being a rising economic and military power is to be accomplished.

The how and why of Partition

By Ishtiaq Ahmed he partition of the Punjab in mid-August 1947 took place as part of a negotiated settlement brokered by the British between the Indian National Congress, the All-India Muslim League and the Sikhs of Punjab to partition India and transfer power to India and Pakistan. The total population of the undivided Punjab Province was 33 million. It included territories directly administered by the British (pop. 28 million) and several princely states. The Punjab was a Muslim majority province while Hindus and Sikhs together made up a very large minority of 44-47 percent. The principle on which India and the Punjab were divided was that Muslim-majority areas were separated from the rest of India and given to Pakistan. The demand to partition India was made by the main communal party of the Muslims, the All-India Muslim League. It insisted that Indian Muslims were not a minority (one-fourth of the total population of India) but a separate nation by virtue of their Islamic faith and culture. When the Muslim League demanded the partition of India the Sikhs of Punjab demanded the same principle be applied to the Punjab. The Indian National

'The Punjab: Bloodied, Partitioned and Cleansed' is the first holistic and comprehensive study of the partition of the Punjab

Congress wanted to keep India united but realizing that the Muslim League was insistent on the partition of India, on March 8, 1947, it threw its weight behind the Sikh demand for the partition of the Punjab. Viceroy Mountbatten came to the conclusion that the partition of India had become inevitable. Therefore on June 3, 1947, the Partition Plan was announced which required the Punjab and Bengal assemblies to vote on whether they wanted to keep their provinces united or partitioned. Both the assemblies voted in favour of partitioning their provinces. The actual transfer of power to India and Pakistan proved to be

bloody and bitter. Some people have described it as one of the ten great tragedies of the 20th century. The estimated loss of life during the partition of India is one million. Besides, 14-18 million people were forced to cross the international border in search of safe havens. For the Punjab alone, the loss of life is estimated somewhere between 500,000-800,000 and 10 million people were forced to flee for their lives. More importantly, after World War II the first case of ethnic cleansing took place in the Punjab. Therefore, it bore the brunt of the partition violence. Thus at the end of 1947 all traces of a Muslim presence in the Indian East Punjab were wiped out, except for

some Muslims remaining in the tiny princely state of Malerkotla (total population 88,000). In the Pakistani West Punjab, Hindus and Sikhs became conspicuous by their absence. Given the fact that the pre-partition Punjab had a robust legacy of a 'live and let live' tradition bequeathed by the efforts of Muslim Sufis, Hindu Sants and Sikh Gurus, such an outcome at the end of 1947 was too drastic and traumatic and remained an intriguing and perplexing puzzle. There were some peculiarities which rendered the Punjab vulnerable to violence in case the competing parties and their leaders could not agree to keep their province united. Among them the main factor was that nearly a million Punjabi Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs had recently been demobilized from the British Indian Army. Why could not Punjabi Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs agree to keep their province united? Why did the violence that took place in the Punjab dwarf the violence that took place in other parts of India? I explain these with the help of a theoretical framework developed in a chapter entitled 'A theory of ethnic cleansing'. Fear of an uncertain future, lack of communication between the leaders of the estranged communities, the waning authority of the British and

the consequent unreliability of the state institutions and functionaries created the social and political milieu in which suspicion and fear proliferated, generating angst among the common people. In such situations reaction and overreaction led to intended and unintended consequences which aggravated and finally resulted in the biggest human tragedy in the history of the Indian subcontinent. There is the first holistic and comprehensive study of the partition of the Punjab. It covers chronologically the events which unfolded during 1947 and covers the whole of Punjab - the 28 districts and the princely states. During January 1 August 14, 1947, it was under British rule. According to Sir Evan Jenkins, the last British governor of Punjab, only some 5,000 fatalities had taken place till August 4, 1947. From August 15 to December 31, 1947, those figures shot up to anything between 500,000 to 800,000. The conclusion I reached from my research is that in March 1947 the Muslims started large-scale violence, mainly against Sikhs but also against Hindus, in the Muslimmajority districts of northern Punjab. Yet at the end of that year more Muslims had been killed in East Punjab than Hindus and Sikhs together in West Punjab. How and why that happened is for the first time presented in this book of mine.

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

20

March 9-15, 2013

OP-ED

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

End of road for Amarinder Singh?

T

The Indian federal budgets deficits

By Sitaram Yechury here is considerable surprise that this years budget was not an election budget as widely expected. An election budget in the sense that it should contain many concessions for various sections in order to woo their support for the forthcoming general elections. By now it is fairly clear that the UPA will approach the general elections with three new flagship proposals the direct benefits transfer, food security, and a new land acquisition law that will provide greater remuneration and benefits to the owners. All these three will require separate legislations to be approved by the Parliament. The cash transfers are based on Aadhar. The parliamentary standing committee has given its report expressing complete dissatisfaction with the current Bill, and has asked the government to come forward with a new Bill. The Land Acquisition Bill has a similar status. Notwithstanding the negative effects of these on the people in the long term, the UPA hopes that these will attract a larger electoral support for itself, on the basis of illusory hopes that these schemes may generate in the short term. This budget, however, is a recipe for mounting greater burdens on the people, and it thus makes the realization of 'inclusive growth a mirage. Further, these budget proposals are unlikely to turbo charge our economy toward a higher growth path. This budget confirms the economic slowdown and endorses the Central Statistical Organization's estimation of our GDP growth rate of 5% for 2012-13, and is in contrast to the finance minister and the ministry contesting this figure on grounds that it is an underestimation. The Economic Survey notes that the growth rate has slowed down from 9.3% in 2009-10 to 6.2% in 2011-12 to 5.0% in 2012-13. Amongst the factors responsible for the slowing down, it notes the impact of the boost to demand provided by stimulus packages following the global economic crisis that began in 2008. The boost in demand saw consumption growing at an average of 8% annually between 2009-2012. This fell to around 4% in 2012-13. Despite this, there is a near stagnation in expenditure allocation this year. A 12% increase means little in real terms, given the near 10% inflation rate. This budget seeks to provide greater and easier access to foreign and domestic capital to invest. Even if more funds come into India, this does not automatically lead to growth, unless people have the purchasing power to buy what is produced. It is precisely this that is going to decline even more with this budget. Unless this is reversed, no amount of making available funds for investment can result in growth. In the absence of this, available resources will not flow to productive investments, but to speculation, as has been reflected in the recent rise in the prices of gold and landed property. All this comes in the backdrop of a fiscal deficit, which the budget in its revised estimates projects as R5,20,925 crore. The same 2012-13 budget shows that the tax revenue foregone by the central government was R5,73,630.1 crore, i.e., nearly R53,000 crore more. While fiscal consolidation is imperative, it should have come not by squeezing expenditure but by expanding the tax GDP ratio, by widening the tax net, which has fallen from 11.9% in 2007-08 to less than 10%. Tax concessions for the rich and India Inc are nothing but subsidies. But these are treated as incentives for growth! The resultant fiscal deficit is then sought to be met by cutting the already meager subsidies for the poor, considered as burdens! Unfortunately, fiscal fundamentalism has triumphed in this budget at the expense of our failure to vastly expand domestic demand through high doses of public investment to build our muchneeded infrastructure. Instead, the hiatus between the two Indias will only widen further, enriching the rich and further impoverishing the poor.

Punjab Congress president and former chief minister Amarinder Singh

By Jaideep Sarin unjab Congress president and former chief minister Amarinder Singh tried hard to turn the tables on the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal in last month's by-election to the Moga assembly seat, but with another defeat on his watch, the state party could be in for a leadership change. Amarinder Singh, whose "nowon, now off" appearances on Punjab's political scene are often the subject of discussion, spent several days in the Moga constituency to support the campaign of Congress candidate Vijay Kumar Sathi. Sathi, however, lost by a huge margin of over 18,800 votes to the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal candidate, Joginderpal Jain. "Had Amarinder Singh spent so much time in the assembly and other elections in Punjab last year, things would have been totally different for the Congress. His effort in Moga came a little too late," a senior legislator of the Congress quipped. With the latest defeat, the clamor among senior Congress leaders for removing Amarinder Singh, 70, is set to go full throttle. "If he has been unable to ensure victory of the party in recent elections, a change is required," a senior Congress leader who was a minister in Amarinder Singh's government (2002-2007), said. What is particularly galling for the Congress is that Moga has been electing a Congress candidate for years. Secondly, Jain had been elected from Moga in the January 2012 assembly elections on the Congress ticket but had quit both his assembly seat and the party to join the Akali Dal. With this defeat, the Congress

has been on a long losing spree in the past one year under Amarinder Singh's leadership. The party lost the assembly elections to the Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alliance. That was also the first time in over 45 years that an incumbent government (Akali Dal-BJP) returned to power for a second consecutive term. The Congress rout happened at a time when there were expectations that incumbency would work against the Akali Dal-BJP combine. In fact, Amarinder Singh and his close aides had gone so far as to discuss positions in the government for top leaders, bureaucrats and police officers in anticipation of returning to power. Dinner parties were also organized in Amarinder Singh's honor, even before the results poured in. Then came the verdict, and all came to nought. After the assembly debacle, the Congress lost the local body elections in Punjab. But a bigger jolt came when the Congress-backed group in the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) was routed, for the first time in several years, by a rejuvenated Akali Dal, to take control of Sikh politics in the national capital. Supporters of Amarinder Singh, however, continue to rally to his defense, saying he is the only mass leader in Punjab who can take on the Akalis. Ultimately, the decision on whether or not Amarinder Singh, who belongs to Patiala's erstwhile royalty, will continue to lead the Congress party in Punjab is one that will be taken by the party high command in New Delhi. Read: Congress chief Sonia Gandhi.

Even if more foreign funds come into India, this does not automatically lead to growth, unless people have the purchasing power to buy what is produced.

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

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

DIASPORA

March 9-15, 2013

21

Indian doctors in UK say qualification test is biased

London: Indian doctors working in the UK have now taken the country's top regulatory body - the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) and the General Medical Council (GMC) - to court alleging that the examination which confirms that a doctor has satisfactorily completed speciality training for general practice and is competent to enter independent practice is flawed and discriminates against the international trainees. RCGP figures show that 65.3% of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) failed their first attempt at the Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA) component of the MRCGP exam in 2011/12, compared with 9.9% of UK graduates. In 2010/11, 59.2% of IMGs failed at the first attempt, compared with 8.2% of UK graduates. In 2008 43% of IMGs failed the CSA compared with 8.3% of UK graduates. The British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO) which is seeking a judicial review of the way the RCGP conducts the MRCGP exam claim there is a significant difference in pass rates which cannot be explained by a lack of any knowledge, skill or competency on the part of the IMGs, which includes a large chunk of those of Indian origin. Dr Ramesh Mehta, president of BAPIO, says "Patient safety is paramount. But these doctors are failed in spite of the fact that they will have had supervised training for three years during which time each of them would have seen on an average 3,000 patients without any complaints. For them to be judged to be so grossly incompetent in a short exit exam either reflects poorly on years of training, which is unlikely, or it is because the exit exam is flawed."

Indian girl smarter than Einstein, Hawkins

said, Neha is one of over a London: A 12-year-old Indian girl has recorded an 1,000 under 18s in British incredible score in one of Mensa (which covers the UK, Ireland and Channel Islands). the world's toughest IQ There are over 22,500 memtests that makes her smarter bers of British Mensa and than scientist Albert Einstein and physicist over 100,000 members worldStephen Hawking. wide. The score is truly extraordinary," Goodman Neha Ramu, who migratsaid. ed to the UK along with her A devoted swimmer, Neha doctor parents five years ago, achieved a score of Neha Ramu has IQ of wants to be a doctor like her 162, higher than that of parents and intends study at 162 on Mensa IQ test. The Albert Einstein score is higher than that of Harvard. She is also believed Hawking, Bill Gates and Einstein, who are to have appeared in the SAT exam and achieved a score of 740 out of 800 in the all believed to have an IQ of 160. The score makes the girl one of the test primarily designed for 18-year-olds. Goodman said Einstein had never taken brightest people in the UK. Rebecca Goodman of British Mensa, an an IQ test but it is widely accepted that it organization of people with very high IQs, would be around 160.

Indian-origin journalist wins inaugural Physics Journalism Prize

Washington: Anil Ananthaswamy, a consultant at New Scientist Magazine and author of "The Edge of Physics," has bagged the inaugural Physics Journalism Prize -- a prize designed to inspire the next generation of physicists by encouraging journalists to grapple with often complex topics and help spread excitement about the subject. He won the prize for his article "Hip Hip Array," which focuses on the Square Kilometer Array, an international project to design and build the largest radio telescope ever conceived. The prize is sponsored by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Anil will be congratulated, Thursday 28 February 2013, at an IOP reception in Central London, which follows this year's Newton Lecture by the Astronomer Royal, Lord Martin Rees of Ludlow, entitled "From Mars to the Multiverse." "Anil Ananthaswamy is being awarded the prize for writing a feature which brings one of the world's most exciting astronomical endeavors to life -- the Square Kilometer Array," said Professor Sir Peter Knight, President of IOP. "I'm delighted that we're able to honor his writing on this occasion, shortly after we hear from one of the UK's leading astronomical luminaries," he stated. The Physics Journalism Award offers the prize of an expenses paid trip to Japan, to visit world-leading facilities carrying out research at the frontiers of physics. On winning, Anil said, "Writing about physics, especially about the work being done in remote, difficult and sometimes hostile environments, is a special pleasure. Winning an award for doing what I love to do is just icing on the cake. I truly appreciate the recognition."

Anil Ananthaswamy

52 Indians killed abroad in 2012

New Delhi: A total of 52 Indians living outside the country were killed while another 50 committed suicide during 2012 in foreign lands, the Lok Sabha was informed Wednesday. In 2010, 58 Indians were killed abroad and 55 committed suicide while in 2011, 38 were killed and 56 committed suicide. "There does not seem to be an increasing trend in the number of such deaths," overseas Indian affairs minister Vayalar Ravi said replying to a question in the Lok Sabha. Sometimes delays occur in bringing the bodies back to country due to local laws and procedures or non-cooperation of sponsors, he said. The discussion was about citizens of the country who were murdered or killed in accidents in foreign countries. "The entire process is subject to norms laid down by the host governments. The government of India, through the concerned embassy, intervenes in cases where the delay seems to be unjustified," he said. Replying to another question, Ravi said: "The government provides legal and financial assistance to the Indian women who are deserted or divorced by their overseas spouses." "Twenty-seven non-government organizations are empanelled in seven countries like the US, Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Bahrain and Qatar to provide such assistance," he said.

Government asked to increase limit of duty free gold for NRIs

Washington: An Indian American organization has asked the Indian government to increase the limit of duty free gold that an NRI couple can bring to India. The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) in a statement has asked the Indian government to increase the limit to Rs 3 lakh from the current Rs 1.5 lakh. "The proposed increasing of limit of dutyfree import of jewelry through passenger baggage to Rs 50,000 for men and Rs 1,00,000 for women will not prevent harassment to travelers but will also play an important role in increasing corruption at the airports," NAPA spokesman Satnam Singh Chahal said. "If the government of India is serious about attracting Non Resident Indians to invest and contribute in the all over development of India then they should ensure that there should not be any kind of harassment to NRIs visiting India ," he said. NAPA also asked the government to make equity investment more attractive and Equity Savings Scheme should be liberalized to enable the first time investor to invest in mutual funds.

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March 9-15, 2013

SUBCONTINENT

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Pranab conveyed commitment on Teesta, land boundary

Dhaka: Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dipu Moni said that visiting Indian President Pranab Mukherjee had conveyed "very strongly" that the Indian government is "fully committed" to the assurances given to Dhaka on two outstanding issues - the Teesta water-sharing agreement and the land boundary agreement. Addressing a press conference here, Moni said: "The Indian president has definitely conveyed to us and very strongly and conveyed it on many occasions (in Dhaka) that the Indian government is fully committed on its assurance given to Bangladesh." Mukherjee had assured Dhaka that the Constitution Amendment Bill to facilitate implementation of the 1974 LBA would be placed in parliament, she said. "And once the consultations on it are done, he also expects the interim agreement on Teesta to be signed," she said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has termed the 1974 IndiaBangladesh Land Boundary Agreement as flawed and declared that the government cannot bank on its support when the Constitution Amendment Bill to facilitate implementation of the pact comes up in parliament during the budget session. The Indian cabinet last month cleared the Bill to amend the IndiaPresident Pranab Mukherjee visits Kuthibari, ancestral house of Guru Ravindra Nath Tagore in Bangladesh

Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement, 1974, and the protocol of 2011. BJP president Rajnath Singh said the pact signed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during his visit to Dhaka was one-sided. "He has said it publicly (in Dhaka) so many times... We have heard it and you have heard it and it is a very clear message," she added. An additional protocol for the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement, inked during the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's 2011 visit to Dhaka, requires a Constitutional amendment for ratification as they involve exchange of land in 111 Indian enclaves in Bangladesh and 51 Bangladeshi enclaves on Indian soil.

Pakistani PM to visit Ajmer

New Delhi: Pakistani Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf will come to India on a private visit this Saturday on a pilgrimage to Ajmer Sharif, official sources said here. "He is expected to come Saturday on a private visit," an official said. He said the Pakistani prime minister is scheduled to visit Ajmer to offer prayers at the shrine of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari had embarked on a similar pilgrimage in April last year and had later met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over lunch in New Delhi. The two leaders had held talks to boost bilateral relations. The dialogue process between the two countries was impacted by ceasefire violations on the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir in January this year with India lodging a strong protest over the brutal killing of two of its soldiers in the Poonch sector. Sources said it had yet not been finalised if there will be any "courtesy call" during Ashraf's visit. The term of Ashraf's government ends later this month.

Malala's nomination for Nobel huge honor: daily

Islamabad: The nomination of Malala Yousufzai, Pakistani teen activist who was shot in the head by the Taliban for promoting girls' education, is a huge honor for her and for Pakistan, a daily said. Fifteen-year-old Malala Yousafzai, whose face is now familiar to the world as a symbol of the struggle against the Taliban, is one of the 259 candidates in the running for this year's Nobel Peace Prize, an editorial in the News International said. The Nobel Institute announced in Oslo that the list of nominees includes 209 individuals and 50 organisations. Though the names of those on the list are not made public for 50 years as per tradition, and the name of the candidate for the award for 2013 will be made public only in October this year, "Malala Yousafzai and former US president Bill Clinton are known to figure on it". Malala was shot by a Taliban assassin as she took a bus home from school in Pakistan's northwest region in October 2012. She was flown to Britain shortly after the attack and was treated at Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital. "The nomination of Malala is a huge

'Security transition in Afghanistan going well'

New Delhi: Transition in Afghanistan, with transfer of security responsibilities to Afghan national forces, was going on well but a lot needs to be done over the next 20 months, an international security expert said. Brigadier (retd.) Ben Barry, a senior fellow for land warfare at the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), said the neighboring powers want Afghanistan to be a modern country capable of looking after itself. Talking to the media after a workshop here on "Perspectives on Iran and Regional Stability", Barry said presidential elections in Afghanistan will be a crucial political factor in the situation in the country after withdrawal of NATO troops in 2014. Asked about India and China agreeing to start a dialogue on Afghanistan, Barry said none of the powers in the neighbourhood want instability. He said there was keenness to create "political conditions for Afghanistan's stability". "Transition of security to Afghan national forces is going on well," he said. He said in the 20 months left for withdrawal of NATO forces, "a lot of capacity building of Afghan forces needs to be done". Barry said Iran was a major factor in Syria and was an ally of President Bashar al-Assad Assad.

Malala Yousafzai is one of the 259 candidates in the running for this year's Nobel Peace Prize honor - for her and for Pakistan. What is unfortunate is that she suffered a bullet pumped into her skull, its force causing shattered bones, before gaining the recognition she now enjoys," said the daily. "Perhaps we should question if fame and a prize are more important to Malala than the health she still struggles for, having lost hearing in one ear among other damage," it added. The editorial cited some experts as saying that a Nobel prize gained at such a young age may burden the teenager for life; others disagree arguing she is the front-running candidate, given her multiple contributions - to education, to the battle against militancy and for her bravery.

Protesters held in Male following Nasheed's arrest

Male: Dozens of opposition demonstrators were arrested in the Maldivian capital Male as violent protests broke out in the island nation following the arrest of former president Mohamed Nasheed. Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) spokesperson Shauna Aminath said that around 70 men, women and minors have been arrested and people had taken to the streets demanding Nasheed's release. Aminath said that an appeal stating Nasheed's arrest was unlawful was rejected by the criminal court. "The party is closely monitoring the situation. Nasheed is being held illegally and we hope he is released soon," Aminath said. Presidential spokesperson Imad Mashood told Xinhua that Nasheed will be presented to court Wednesday afternoon for the hearing of the case against him for the abduction of Judge Abdullah Mohammed. "Nasheed was taken under judicial custody to ensure his presence. Nasheed has a history of absconding court orders and avoiding the judicial process...," Mashood said. The US expressed deep concern over the present political turmoil in the Maldives and urged all parties to remain calm and reject the use of violence following the arrest of former president Mohamed Nasheed. The US embassy in Colombo in a statement said that the US was increasingly concerned about the ongoing events in Maldives. The US also urged that the presidential elections scheduled for September 7 to be free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive.

Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

INTERNATIONAL

March 9-15, 2013

23

Chavez: leader who raised Venezuela's profile

London: Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who died after battling cancer, was a tough and charismatic leader, whose idiosyncratic brand of socialism gave hope to the poorest people in the Latin American country. According to the BBC, his strident criticism of the US won him many friends among the political leaders in Latin America and he effectively used his country's vast oil reserves to boost Venezuela's international clout. But to his political opponents, he was the worst type of autocrat, intent on building a one-party state and ruthlessly clamping down on any who opposed him. Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias was born July 28, 1954 in the state of Barinas. He was one of seven children. His parents were both school teachers and the family lived in relative poverty. He attended the Daniel O'Leary High School in Barinas city before going to the Venezuelan Academy of Military Sciences in the capital, Caracas where, he later said, he found his true vocation. He found time to study the lives of the 19th Century South American revolutionary leader Simon Bolivar and Che Guevara. He graduated in 1975 and had already begun to form political ideas that he would later put into practice as president, including the belief that the military had a duty to step in if a civilian government was deemed to have failed to proand squandering the country's vast oil wealth. Chavez promised "revolutionary" social policies, and constantly abused the "predatory oligarchs" of the establishment as corrupt servants of international capital.

US for constructive relationship with Venezuela

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez died after battling cancer for two years

tect the poorest in society. He was posted to one of the many counter-insurgency units tackling Marxist groups bent on overthrowing the presidency of Carlos Andres Perez. In 1981, he was assigned to teach at the military academy where he had been a student and found himself in a position to indoctrinate the next generation of army officers with his political ideas, BBC said. In 1992, he led an attempt to overthrow the government of Perez, amid growing anger at economic austerity measures that had led to widespread protests. A revolt by members of the Revolutionary Bolivarian Movement claimed 18 lives before Colonel Chavez gave himself up. He was languishing in a military

jail when his associates tried again to seize power nine months later. The second coup attempt in November 1992 was crushed as well. Chavez spent two years in prison before relaunching his party as the Movement of the Fifth Republic, making the transition from soldier to politician. He spent time canvassing and found strong support and friendship from Cuba's revolutionary president, Fidel Castro. Chavez believed in overthrowing the government by force but was persuaded to change his mind and instead became a candidate in the 1998 presidential elections. Venezuela had enjoyed an unbroken period of democratic government since 1958, but the two main parties, which had alternated in power, stood accused of presiding over a corrupt system

Washington: Amidst flaring of tension between the United States and Venezuela following the death of its President Hugo Chavez, US President Barack Obama has said that America is interested in developing a "constructive" relationship with the Venezuelan people. "At this challenging time of President Hugo Chavez's passing, the United States reaffirms its support for the Venezuelan people and its interest in developing a constructive relationship with the Venezuelan government," Obama

said in his statement. "As Venezuela begins a new chapter in its history, the United States remains committed to policies that promote democratic principles, the rule of law, and respect for human rights," Obama said in his statement issued after the death of Chavez on Tuesday. Meanwhile the US State Department has reacted furiously to the Venezuelan Government's allegations that the US is involved in conspiracy to destabilize their government or caused the illness of Chavez.

Chavez helped forge closer ties: Manmohan

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh condoled the death of Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, saying he made a tremendous contribution to the development of closer relations among the developing world. "I am deeply saddened to learn of the untimely demise of His Excellency President Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias. The people of India join me in conveying our heartfelt condolence to his family and to the government and people of Venezuela," Singh said in his message. "Venezuela has lost a charismatic and immensely popular leader in President Chavez who leaves a legacy of striving for social justice," he said.

A baby girl for Prince William, Kate?

China sets an easy target to kick off Xi era

Beijing: China's new leader Xi Jinping and his team are gearing up for a grim battle against inflation while setting for themselves an easy target 7.5% of gross domestic product for the current year. Outgoing premier Wen Jiabao in his last speech at the Great Hall of People promised measures to rein in property prices despite the sharp reactions in the Chinese stock market, which is unhappy about new taxes imposed on the industry. In his speech opening the national legislature's annual session, Wen dourly listed problems being left behind: sluggish growth; pollution; yawning iniquity and rampant corruption. "Some of these problems have built up over time, while others have emerged in the course of economic and social development, and still others have been caused by inadequacies and weaknesses in our government work," Wen said in his address to nearly 3,000 deputies. Wen's address willy-nilly represents the priorities of the new leadership headed by Xi Jinping and points at a growing realization that

Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton

London: Prince William's wife Kate Middleton is normally careful to protect her privacy, so Britain's newspapers seized on what appeared to be a rare slip of the tongue suggesting that her unborn baby is a girl. The Duchess of Cambridge, 31, was overheard telling a well-wisher offering a gift for the new royal heir that she would take it "for my d...", before stopping herself, according to media reports. Sandra Cook, 67, said the exchange took place during Kate's visit to the northeastern English port of Grimsby, when her fivemonth-old pregnancy bump was

clearly visible. "The lady next to me gave her (Kate) a teddy bear and I distinctly heard her say: 'Thank you, I will take that for my d...'. Then she stopped herself," Cook said."I said to her: 'You were going to say daughter, weren't you?' She said: 'No, we don't know.' I said: 'Oh, I think you do', to which she said: 'We're not telling'." The exchange made the front page of most of Britain's newspapers, amid growing excitement about the new royal baby. "Has Kate given the game away?" asked the Times, while the Daily Mirror more confidently declared: "It's a girl!"

China's new leader Xi Jinping

the policies that delivered stunning growth are foundering in the aftermath of corruption scandals and environmental degradation. The legislative session completes the decadal change in leadership. The largely ceremonial legislature, known as the National People's Congress, will approve appointments to top government posts to manage the economic and foreign policies, rounding out the team Xi

will need to govern. Among the changes expected are the title of President to be conferred on Xi, formally taking over from his predecessor, Hu Jintao. The party's No. 2, Li Keqiang, will replace Wen as premier. Leaders targeted a 7.5% economic growth rate for the coming year, which is the same as last year and lower than the 8% rate that dominated planning for decades.

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March 9-15, 2013

BUSINESS

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Ranbaxy to sell generic 'Cadbury used 'phantom factory' to avoid taxes' anti-depression drug in US
Mumbai: Cadbury Plc, now part of Mondelez International Inc, used a nonexistent factory in India to avoid about $46 million in taxes, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing a report by tax authorities. Cadbury's Indian unit manipulated invoices and other documents to get an exemption from taxes available to companies that began production in new plants in Himachal Pradesh by March 31, 2010, the Journal said. The Directorate General of Central Excise Intelligence, which conducted the investigation, concluded that the factory could not have existed by the deadline as the company had not received the necessary approvals from government agencies, the Journal said. Mondelez is reviewing the content of the show-cause notice from India's excise department, spokesman Michael Mitchell told Reuters in an emailed statement. "We have been fully cooperating with the authorities on this enquiry," Mitchell said. Tax officials in India could not be reached for comment outside regular business hours. India had said in November it was investigating the local unit of Cadbury, saying the company may have evaded as much as Rs. 2 billion in taxes. India is aggressively pursuing tax claims against multinational firms operating in the country as the government seeks to rein in its budget deficit. Anglo-Dutch oil major Royal Dutch Shell's Indian unit has been accused of undervaluing a share sale to its overseas parent in 2009 by $2.7 billion.

Cadbury Plc used a nonexistent factory in India to avoid about $46 million in taxes, say reports.

It will to exclusively market the generic version of Pfizer Inc.'s anti-depression drug Pristiq in the US

Washington: The US arm of Indian drug major Ranbaxy Laboratories has entered into an inlicensing agreement with Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited to exclusively market the generic version of Pfizer Inc.'s anti-depression drug Pristiq in the US. Jacksonville, Florida, base Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc (RPI) announced Tuesday that Alembic manufactured Desvenlafaxine is a bioequivalent version of Pristiq with a market size of $590 million. India based research and development pharmaceutical company, Alembic has received the final approval from the US Food and

Drug Administration (USFDA) and Ranbaxy expects the product to be available in the US marketplace during the first quarter of 2013, it said in a media release. Commenting on the development, Bill Winter, vice president, Ranbaxy trade sales and distribution, North America said, "Ranbaxy is pleased to partner with Alembic to offer a safe, effective, affordable generic alternative to the brand formulation much ahead of the patent expiration. "We are committed to expand our portfolio of products offered in the US market for the benefit of patients, prescribers and the US healthcare system," he said.

Vodafone, the largest corporate investor in India, has repeatedly clashed with Indian authorities over taxes since it bought Hutchison Whampoa's local mobile business in 2007. Cadbury was acquired by Kraft Foods Inc in 2010 in a $19 billion deal. Kraft then spun off its North American grocery business as Kraft Foods Group. Mondelez is the name of what remains of Kraft Foods Inc after the spinoff. Its brands include Oreo cookies, Cadbury chocolate and Trident gum. Kraft is also under investigation in India on whether it needed to pay taxes arising from its $19 billion takeover of Cadbury.

Indian IT industry targets $300 billion revenue

Bangalore: Targetting $300 billion revenue from IT sector by 2020, the industry representative body Nasscom Monday announced expansion of its focus to include internet, mobile technology and cloud computing. Currently revenue from software and services is around $100 billion. The larger focus for Nasscom, from just software and services, has been suggested by a panel the industry body had set July last year under the chairmanship of Infosys co-founder N. R. Narayana Murthy. Releasing the recommendations of the panel to media here, Murthy said internet, mobile technology, cloud computing and domestic IT market had great potential. Hence the Nasscom executive council would be expanded to give representation to these IT segments, he said. Nasscom would also set up five centers of excellence in five years, Murthy said.

Dow smashes record as US stocks surge Tax residency certificate: India

New York: The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged to a new all-time high as trade opened, surpassing the record set more than five years ago. Thirty minutes into trade, the Dow was at 14,231.35, up 103.53 points (0.73 per cent) from Mondays close and well past the previous intra-day high of 14,198.10 set on October 11, 2007. The Dow closed at 14,253.77, well above its alltime closing high of 14,164 set on October 9, 2007. The broad-based S&P 500 picked up 0.96 per cent) to 1,539.39, still shy of its closing and intraday records also set in October 2007. The tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index gained 1.32 per cent) to 3,224.13. This is something thats been building for months and months, Chris Low, chief economist at FTN Financial, said of the record. Investor sentiment was mainly bolstered by Chinas plans to increase spending, including nearly 11 per cent hike in defense expenditure.

assures foreign investors

New Delhi: The government sought to assure overseas investors that their fear of losing benefits over the Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) will be addressed during discussion on the Finance Bill in Parliament. In the federal budget for 2013-14, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram proposed changes in the Finance Act that says a tax residency certificate (TRC) is a "necessary but not sufficient condition" for availing benefits of the double taxation avoidance agreement (DTAA). "The certificate of being resident in a specified territory outside India shall be necessary but not a sufficient condition for claiming any relief under the agreement referred to therein," said an amendment proposed in the Finance Bill. "Some tax avoidance arrangements have come to notice and I propose to plug the loophole. Some unlisted companies have avoided dividend distribution tax by arrangements involving buyback of shares," Chidambaram had said in his budget speech. The move caused confusion in the markets leading to huge sell-off by overseas investors, resulting in the sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) losing 290 points. The foreign investors were concerned that the TRC provision would make it difficult for them routing their funds from low-tax havens like Mauritius, Cyprus and Singapore to avail the benefits under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA).

AirAsia gets govt's nod to start new airline

New Delhi/Kuala Lumpur: Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia received regulatory approvals from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) for starting a new airline venture in the Indian civil aviation sector with partners like the Tata Group and Arun Bhatia promoted Telestra Tradeplace. "The good always win. People and companies with good intentions to create jobs and make life of the average man better will always win," an elated Tony Fernandes, Air Asia's Indian origin founder and chief executive, tweeted. "Thank you all. AirAsia - Tata

Malaysia's AirAsia plans to launch a regional airline in India in a venture with the Tata group

India airline proposal gets government nod." The Malaysian budget carrier intends to invest anywhere between $30 million to $60 million in the airline venture.

However, the civil aviation ministry had earlier sort a clarification from FIPB on the new foreign direct investment policy in the domestic airline sector.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

SPORTS

March 9-15, 2013

25

India beat Oz, take 2-0 lead

Hyderabad: India took a 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, thrashing Australia by an innings and 135 runs with more than five sessions to spare in the second cricket Test at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium here on March 5. Resuming the day at 74 for two, Australia suffered yet another batting collapse and were skittled out for 131 in the second innings by lunch on the fourth day. Australia, who had declared their first innings at 237/9, earned the dubious distinction of becoming the first team in the history of Test cricket to lose by an innings after declaring their first innings. India, despite suffering a massive batting collapse on the third day, got to 503 in the first innings, courtesy a 370-run stand between Cheteshwar Pujara (204) and Murali Vijay (167). Pujara, for whom it was his second double ton, was adjudged as Man of the Match. With the win, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni surpassed Sourav Ganguly as the most successful Indian Test captain. Going into day four, India were in firm control of the match as they were just eight wickets shy of an innings win. For Australia, it was always going to be a herculean task to make India bat again. The Australian batting crumbled like a pack of cards against the spin duo Ravichandran Ashwin (5/63) and Ravindra Jadeja (3/33). Pacer Ishant Sharma was the first to strike to remove Shane Watson (9) for his first

Dhoni most successful India Test captain

Hyderabad: Mahendra Singh Dhoni has become the most successful Indian Test captain, surpassing Sourav Ganguly after India won the second cricket Test against Australia by an innings and 135 runs here on March 5. The 31-year-old Dhoni, who has recorded two World Cup wins (2007-T20, 2011-ODI), now has 22 Test wins, one more than Ganguly. Mohammed Azharuddin is third with 14 wins while Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi and Sunil Gavaskar are tied on fourth with nine wins each. Ganguly's record of 21 Test wins stood for eight years before Dhoni overtook him after inflicting another humiliating loss on Australia. Australia also earned the dubious distinction of becoming the first cricket team in the history of Test cricket to lose a match by an innings after having declared in the first innings. Dhoni has captained India in 45 matches, won 22, lost 12 and drawn 11, for a winning percentage of 48.88. It seems more than likely that Dhoni's figures will only improve as the series progresses.
Cheteshwar Pujara made 204, his second double ton

Mahendra Singh Dhoni

wicket of the series. Watson tried to play a length ball down the leg-side but played too fine and Dhoni took a nice diving catch. Left-arm spinner Jadeja struck in his consecutive overs to get rid of skipper Michael Clarke (16) and Ed Cowan (44) as Australia slumped to 111/5. For the second time in the match, Jadeja rattled Clarke's stumps and then removed overnight batsman Cowan as Sehwag took a good catch at first slip after the ball ricocheted off Dhoni's pads.

Fox to launch Sports Cable Network

New York: Fox said it will launch its long-anticipated Fox Sports 1 network on Aug. 17, with content ranging from Nascar races to college basketball. The launch of a national sports cable channel culminates a more than decade-long effort by Fox to establish itself as a destination for televised sports, a market that has long been dominated by Walt Disney Co.'s DIS -0.21% juggernaut ESPN network. Fox has in recent years invested heavily in sports programming, such as current and future rights to Major League Baseball and World Cup Soccer, both of which will provide some of the content for the new network. "We believe we have amassed enough live events where we have scale, where we can have significance and where we can become a major player in the market," Randy Freer, co-president of Fox Sports Media Group, said during a news conference to introduce the network . Speaking earlier at an investment conference, News Corp.'s Chief Operating Officer Chase Carey warned that the new network wouldn't immediately be profitable, but said any losses would be "nothing like what we would incur" if building a network "from scratch. " The launch comes amid surging costs for sports programming, which is prized by advertisers because it is typically watched live and is therefore largely immune to video recordings, which encourage fast forwarding of commercials. The genre's loyal male audiences also tend to be the types of big consumers targeted by advertisers.

NBA's Lakers, Rockets to tour Asia in October

Kobe Bryant and Jeremy Lin

Asian cycling: India's best hope came out of coma

New Delhi: Chandrashekhar Rajesh's story should be inspiring for any sportsperson. The Tiruchirapalli-based cyclist came alive after being comatose for 10 days following an horrific accident last year and is now one of India's brightest prospects in the Asian Championships being held in New Delhi from March 7. For Rajesh, it is very much a story of coming back from the brink as he was bed-ridden for six months. The 24-year-old narrated how the tragedy struck him in his hometown last February. "I was training with a motorbike which was right ahead of me. My cycle's speedometer touched 79.8 kmph and the bike rider ahead of me suddenly throttled down, causing the collision," the soft-spoken rider said. He spent the next 20 days in the hospital and the recovery was painfully slow, raising a serious question mark over his blossoming cycling career. "To be honest, I did not even think about cycling while I was in the hospital bed. It is a miracle that I am back on the pedal. My family also had to go through a traumatic phase. Now I want to make this second chance count," said the scratch race specialist, whose family spent Rs.3.5 lakh on his treatment.

New York: Kobe Bryant and Jeremy Lin are set to visit Asia in October with Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets for a series of exhibition games, the National Basketball Association announced. The Lakers will play two games in China against the Golden State Warriors, beginning with an October 15 contest at the MasterCard Center arena. Three days later the same two teams will square off in Shanghai at the Mercedes-Benz Arena. Lin's Rockets will play in both China's Taiwan province and the Philippines. Houston faces the Indiana Pacers on October 13 at the Taipei Arena. They start their Asia swing with an October 10 contest against the Pacers in Manila. It has been just over a year since "Linsanity" gripped New York

Knicks fans and propelled break-out star Lin to global fame. Lin, who was born in Los Angeles, is the first American of Chinese descent to play in the NBA. Bryant's Lakers will be playing for the first time in China. Five-time NBA champion Bryant has been coauthoring a blog in Chinese for several years. Last month Bryant joined the Twitter-like Chinese micro-blogging site Sina Weibo, getting thousands of followers in just the first few hours. The Lakers vs. Warriors and Rockets vs. Pacers games highlight a total of eight NBA overseas games in October. They are joined by the Oklahoma City Thunder, Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Wizards and Chicago Bulls in the NBA global games schedule.

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March 9-15, 2013

FEATURES

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Now hospitals will have movie lounge, spa, et al

Gurgaon/New Delhi: A fullfledged movie lounge, a spa, a gym and fast food outlets - a multi-specialty hospital has geared itself up to cater to the demands of its patients and their attendants apart from providing the latest in medical treatment. Corporate hospitals in big Indian cities, particularly in the National Capital Region, are no longer concentrating on providing only health services to the patients but are also aiming at providing value-added services to patients and their attendants. "During long surgeries, the stressed out attendants of patients don't wish to leave the premises of the hospital and at that moment watching a movie or having some good food without having to step out can be a positive distraction," Dilpreet Brar, Regional Director of Fortis Hospital in Gurgaon, told IANS. The Gurgaon-based Fortis, apart from having a huge shopping arcade, a bakery, a spa, gym and a host of fast food outlets, has come up with a 36-seater movie theater inside its premises that was opened Jan 19 to screen free film shows for the patients and their attendants. Perhaps the first such movie theater in India, it is located on the ground floor and shows the latest blockbusters. The visitors to the hospitals desire for good quality and hygienic food. Thus, express outlets offer a range of heavy finger foods like sandwiches, hot-dogs, burgers, doughnuts and much more, Brar said. This is not all. Columbia Asia in Gurgaon has started its own chain of cafes rather than giving space to an outsider. The sprawling Columbia Cafe at the Columbia Asia Hospital also conducts cooking classes and regular food festivals along with food promotion activities. "Not just the patient's families, even customers from the neighborhood come in for a meal at our hospital considering the international standard of our food maintained throughout our chain of hospitals," Madhur Varma, Area General Manager of Columbia Asia, said. Plush restaurants at Indraprastha Apollo in Jasola Vihar in south Delhi and Columbia Asia's cafe have already gained popularity, according to the guests spoken to. Max Hospital in Gurgaon has given quality space to Whole Foods, while Max in Saket in south Delhi has The Kwality Express, Cafe Coffee Day, Sagar Ratna and Subway outlets for its visitors. Sir Ganga Ram Hospital offers fine dining facilities in the hospital's premises, while Indraprastha Apollo has roped in major fast-food joints. Max Healthcare has a Cafe Coffee Day outlet. Max Heart and Vascular Institute in Saket in South Delhi has a Subway outlet. Max Healthcare at Patparganj in east Delhi has Bikano and Cafe Express. While a majority of people have appreciated this extravaganza in hospitals and consider it as a major attempt to "de-stress the care giver", many disapprove of it considering it to be a mere show-off to add to the hospitals' profile and to get more business. "Hospitals are accredited on the nutritional quality of the food they provide to the patients and nutrition advice is a key component of their outpatient services. At the same time, they invite fast-food outlets to set up in prominent places within the hospital foyer," a patient's attendant, who declined to be named, said.
Apollo Food Village was opened in 2009 at Apollo Hospitals Dhaka. It offers tasty local and continental cuisine ranging from soups, salads, snacks, tandoori, grills, icecreams, milk shakes, cocktails, and fresh juices.

A special screening of Matru ki Bijlee ka Mandola was organised recently at Fortiplex, a plush, 36-seater lounge theater within the swanky Fortis hospital complex in Gurgaon.

'Indian sentiment not against Pakistan'

By Brij Khandelwal Agra: Indian sentiment is not against Pakistan because people in the country are open to cultural exchanges with the neighboring country, says Ajeet Cour, the founder president of the Foundation of SAARC Writers and Literature (FOSWAL)." "When the National School of Drama refused to hold the performance of Madeeha Gohar's play 'Kaun hai yeh ghustaakh?' it was the people of Delhi who organized two shows for them instead of one, Ajeet Cour told IANS in interview here. "This is a secular and democratic country and people here understand that differences between governments and armies should not be allowed to interfere in the peopleto-people contacts," Cour said. The Foundation of SAARC Writers and Literature will organize the SAARC Festival of Literature in Agra March 10-12. Cour is a multi-faceted personality. An accomplished writer, she presents in her writings a mix of realism, biting social commentary and a masterful use of free indirect speech. Her two-volume autobiography, "Homeless Nomads (English translation, 'Pebbles in a that be that such track II-initiatives are a necessary part of the peace process; that culture is the backbone of friendship, and mutual coexistence is something that only writers and artistes can talk about convincingly," she said. She clarified that the SAARC festival, unlike many others, was not aimed at making headlines. "We are trying to bring about slow, steady and sustainable development in the field of writing," she said. She said the Foundation had a chain of coordinators in each country who recommend writers and encourage these writers "to send us their works". "The screening committee goes through these works and then we make the final selection. However, we do keep languages in our mind while we are selecting. South Asia has so many languages and we try to have representatives from as many as possible each year. When some language goes unrepresented we try to get a writer from that language in the following year," Cour said. In response to a query on young writers in the region, Cour said she was satisfied "that the bulk of writing has increased and so many young people are indulging in creative writing".

Ajeet Cour, founder president of the Foundation of SAARC Writers and Literature.

Tin drum') and "the Residue" (Khaana Badosh and Koorha Kabaarha), tells the tale of her enduring odyssey - literary, social and cultural. She is a peace activist and promoter of literature in the South Asian region. Cour says SAARC is not just about India and Pakistan. "It encompasses eight countries. The aim of my Foundation is to serve long-term goals. Sporadic incidents are not our concern, and almost all the SAARC countries are today democratic, sovereign nations. Each has a law of the land

and is entitled to use it as and when necessary," she said, adding that the literature from the region reflected unique national issues of the respective nations. Explaining the reason for choosing Agra as the venue of the SAARC Literature Festival, she said the main reason of course was that "Agra has one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, and every visitor to this country wants to visit it". Cour is proud of her role as a cultural bridge in the region. "I am very proud of the fact that

writers from all over the SAARC countries treat me as an elder sister, the younger ones treat me as a mother. They wish to avail my invitation, most send requests to be included. It means they treat FOSWAL as a platform where serious deliberations are held and, meaningful work in literature is appreciated," she said. Cour said the "facilitation of this sharing, I believe, has been "my greatest achievement". "Besides, of course, is the fact that I have slogged for more than 25 years to convince the powers

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

SELF HELP

March 9-15, 2013

27

Signs your teen is in trouble and what to do about it

eing a teenager is never easy, but for some kids, it is excruciating. For parents, being able to tell the difference between normal growing pains and real trouble is crucial. From drug abuse to depression to more serious physical or mental abuse, its important to recognize when your teen is in trouble. Young people dont always have the tools or perspective to process everything thats happening to them. Many teens will turn inward, keeping feelings to themselves, says Bulbul Bahuguna, a psychiatrist and author of the new novel, The Ghosts That Come Between Us, a coming-of-age story about a victim of childhood sex abuse. But Bahuguna, whose novel is informed by her work treating adults coping with childhood abuse issues, says parents can break the silence. What can hurt teens even more than the troubles and issues they face, is the silence of those around them. Parents should never play the role of silent bystanders, she says. Here are some steps you can take to help your child survive the

teen years emotionally unscathed: Recognize that it can take courage to talk about certain issues, such as depression, or being the victim of bullying or abuse. Just because your child isnt vocalizing an issue, doesnt mean everything is okay. If your child is acting withdrawn, secretive, angry or sad, set aside time for a discussion. By engaging regularly, you can encourage teens to speak honestly

with you before problems start. Dont force or pry, however. While youre no longer changing diapers or spoon feeding your teenager, older children need parents too. Being there for teenagers means reviewing report cards, communicating with teachers, facilitating extracurricular activities and being a great listener and emotional support system. While you may be able to talk your child through some of lifes

bumps in the road, some situations call for professional help. Not only is a therapist or psychiatrist professionally qualified to help develop coping skills, your child might feel more comfortable talking to someone objective. Such aid can be crucial to helping your teen move on and grow into a healthy adulthood, stresses Bahuguna, whose new novel The Ghosts That Come Between Us traces the life of an abused girl as she grows of age into a triumphant but tormented adult. The novel implies that the protagonists adult life would have been less tormented had she had access to help growing up. Ensure your school offers easy access to mental health services and encourage your child to use those services. Boost self-esteem by fostering your teens talents and regularly letting them know you love them. It is normal for a child to seek specialness. Unfortunately, this pursuit of specialness sometimes is exploited by abusive adults. It is important to fill teenagers' specialness void by nurturing their innate talents, say experts.

"Society needs to believe the victim and the victim needs to believe that healing is possible with courage, honesty and patience," says Bahuguna, emphasizing the need for trust and patience. More advice from Dr. Bahuguna can be found at www.BulbulBahuguna.com, along with information on her new book.

Bulbul Bahuguna, a psychiatrist and author of the new novel, The Ghosts That Come Between Us, a coming-of-age story about a victim of childhood sex abuse.

pring is a time of rejuvenation and fresh starts. And while spring cleaning closets, the garage and basement requires good old-fashioned work, new tools can help take the fuss out of sprucing up finances. Review Start by getting a complete view of your finances. Consider using a free online tool, such as Mint.com, to see all your financial accounts in one place. You can use the site to establish a budget, as it automatically categorizes your spending, making it easier to ensure you stick with your plan. Set yourself up for success. If youre prone to go over your budget or miss important bill payments, sign up for email or text alerts about large purchases, late fees and bounced checks. By establishing clear goals and tracking your spending on-the-go from your phone or tablet, youll be more likely to save for the things you want in life and avoid debt. De-clutter Your online banking information can get cluttered in much the same way as your paperwork. Eliminate the eMess by tracking and managing all your account information in one place. For example, Quicken software lets you see your full financial picture in the form of charts and graphs. Learn where you stand and get motivated visually to meet your goals. Save Saving money doesnt have to mean forfeiting your social life or creature comforts. Many theaters, museums, zoos and parks offer special discount days such as standing room only or pay-what-you-can nights. Some even offer free admission on certain days of the month. Or simply let the great outdoors be

Tips to spring clean your finances S

your entertainment. Take a hike, make a picnic, or host a backyard barbecue. Forgo the fancy gym membership and dust off those running shoes and bike, working out the old-fashioned way. Raining? Check out community centers in your area some may be free, or charge only minimal fees. Refinance Do you want to pay off high-interest debt? You can do so wisely by refinancing with more competitive rates. Newer alternatives can eliminate the costs associated with traditional bank lending. If you have good-to-excellent credit, consider applying for an unsecured personal loan for up to $35,000 on a site like Lending Club, a leading platform for investing in and obtaining personal loans. Hundreds of people across the country can invest in your loan, which means a streamlined process and lower rates for you. More information can be found at www.LendingClub.com. If the onset of spring is your cue to organize your finances, let new tools help you do so with ease.

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March 9-15, 2013

HUMOR

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Humor with Melvin Durai

Buy or sell a home, but only if you dare

M
y wife and I recently sold our home in Winnipeg and are in the process of buying one in the Chicago suburbs. Ive learned a lot about home buying and selling, and would like to share some tips with you, in case youre daring enough to buy or sell a home. I use the word daring because I strongly advise against it, just as I strongly advise against committing murder. And trust me, at some point during your home buying or selling process, you will want to kill someone, most likely your real estate agent. I dont mean to scare you I just want you to be prepared for the bitter feelings that might arise if the process doesnt go the way you hoped, such as if youre forced to sell your home for less than you owe the bank. (This is known as a short sale in real estate terminology, because you will be short of money to pay the bank, the bank manager will get short with you, and achieving your retirement goals will be nothing short of a miracle.) If you still feel compelled to buy or sell a home, its a good idea to learn as much as you can about the process. Lets start ers want to be pleasantly surprised, not shell-shocked. Update your kitchen. This is really important to women, as I discovered when my wife and I walked into a gleaming new kitchen and her eyes lit up more brightly than on our wedding day. Too bad we were just visiting a friends house. Dont hang around during home viewings. When a real estate agent is showing your home to potential buyers, its really not a good idea for you to be lying on the couch in the living room, watching an episode of Wife Swap. Its better to disappear for an hour or two, and by disappear, I dont mean in the walkin closet. Trust me, if theres anything more off-putting to a home buyer than seeing a row of leisure suits from the 70s, its seeing a pair of eyes behind them. Put away your photos and other personal items. Home buyers want to picture themselves living in your home, not picture you on a beach in Hawaii. You dont want them to get the wrong idea. Wife: That bikini seems a little tight on her. Husband: Not as tight as our finances will be if we buy this home. Tight finances are certainly a good reason to be careful when buying a home. Here are some tips to help you: Always verify facts. The seller may claim that the roof was installed in 06 and the carpet was installed in 08 but you need to make sure it wasnt 1906 and 1908. Do as much research as you can. Google the home, Google its owner, Google the neighbor, Google the neighbors dog. The latter may seem extreme, but wait until you need to retrieve an errant ball. Pretty soon, youll be calling the police to retrieve part of your butt. Location is important. If a home is next to a busy road, you can count on getting a good price. If its next to an Indian grocery store, you can count on getting good rice. Dont let your agent pressure you or mislead you. Real estate agents can be very helpful, but theyre also eager to see you making a purchase. If your agent sends you a text on his iPhone that a particular house will be scooped up within a week, what hes trying to scoop up within a week is his commission. Not all agents are like this, of course. Some have Blackberries.

with some home selling tips: De-clutter your home. Its important to make your home look spacious, so please rent a storage unit somewhere and fill it up with everything you dont require for your day-to-day living needs, except perhaps your husband. Trust me, potential home buyers are not going to be impressed with your collection of seashells from all over the world, even if youve glued them together in the shape of Barack Obama. Remember: home buy-

Photo of the week

A man dressed as Batman and a burglary suspect stand in a police station in Bradford, northern England, on Feb 25 in this still photograph taken from video and provided by the West Yorkshire Police on March 4. A day after making headlines around the world for handing over a suspect to police dressed as Batman, the identity of Britain's mysterious caped crusader has been revealed as Stan, a takeaway food delivery man.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

ASTROLOGY

March 9-15, 2013

29

By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma

Stars Foretell: March 9-15, 2013
ARIES: Politicians find a very smooth sailing as results go in your favor, thus immensely boosting confidence. Help from family members would take care of your needs. Monetary position is likely to improve later in the week. Warm romantic thoughts occupy mind. Meditation and yoga prove beneficial for spiritual as well as physical gains. Excitement for a vacation is not enough, planning is also required. If you wish to achieve a good deal in property then try at commercial basis. You successfully solve your old disputes and land-related problems. TAURUS: People engaged in tourism will have the energy to keep pace with fast taking events thus giving themselves an edge over others. You will enjoy the time spent with family members and friends. You need to make a proper planning before embarking on love journey. Time for Hypertension patients to change their eating habits. Many people want to fly international and you are one of them. It is advisable to check the authenticity of the real estate agent, whom you are dealing with. Make sure you save yourself from temptation. GEMINI: Journey undertaken for business purpose might fail to bring expected results. Property dispute might erupt causing mental tension to all at family front. An unrealistic planning could lead to paucity of funds. Your charm & generosity bring new romantic opportunities for you. Health problem could make it difficult to concentrate. By traveling youll learn about new places and cultures, which is ultimately a great deal about yourself. Develop an attitude to be successful on your property investment plans. Personal efforts would greatly help in increasing influence in social & political fields. CANCER: Betterment awaits people engaged in the field of graphic designing. Your generous behavior would enable to enjoy some lovely moments with family. Instead of wasting time, better to get involved in something to improve your financial position. Love life brightens your week. 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. You and your loved ones been busy for quite sometimes and have finally decided to go on a vacation. If you are looking for a sure-fine method to earn on your property, student rental could be exactly what you need. This week, you will be able to increase your contacts with intellectuals. LEO: Self-confidence would immensely help in achieving good results at professional front. Friends and family members would lend a helping hand. You succeed in making some extra cash on playing your cards well. Avoid raising controversial issues in love rather enjoy the company. Wasting invaluable energy by getting irritated over small matters brings disappointment. Your next journey is to a place which is full of natural beauty and ravishing. If you are hoping to sell your house quickly then you should consider a private sale. Trust to a limit in friendship. VIRGO: The efforts of people aspiring to join interior designing course are likely to be handsomely rewarded. An unexpected message from a distant relative brings happy news for the entire family. An auspicious week to invest money on items that would grow in value. Make sure you dont surrender yourself under physical passions to save romantic bond. You need to take advantage of your enormous confidence to make new contacts and friends. Time for a vacation, sit back and relax. Looking to buy property, then go for commercial one. Your opponents find you a headache. LIBRA: Leadership qualities and ability to understand people would benefit at work. An auspicious week for family functions and important ceremonies. The secret mantra of earning your profits: invest wisely. If possible avoid wearing clothes, which could offend love partner. Engaging yourself in creative work would keep you relaxed. If you are thinking of escaping from the hectic daily routine- plan a trip. Good time to purchase a property. Recognition and influence would increase in social field. SCORPIO: At work you will be perfect in whatever you do during this week. Relatives are likely to give some valuable advice regarding personal life. Investment on long-term plans would pave the way for earning financial gains. Your wit & charm would help in catching the attention of opposite sex. A very healthy week when your cheerfulness gives the desired tonic and confidence. Your travel experience is going to be an extent of sharing your knowledge and communication. Avoid the use of estate agents to sell your house or property. Keep yourself away from bad habits and bad company. This will pave the way for success in your life. SAGITTARIUS: To take business to newer heights you will have to induct highly motivated persons with excellent interpersonal skills in your team. A week for renewal of bonds and family ties. Investment is recommended but after a proper advice/guidance. Dont worry everything changes with time so will your romantic life. Cataract patients should avoid visiting a polluted environment as smoke could cause further problems to their eyes. It is advisable to be careful regarding your safety, while traveling. A good deal for your new property is ready to be made. Legal problem will be solved with the timely help of friends. CAPRICORN: If possible, take the help of emotional intelligence to succeed at professional front. You receive care and affection from family members. You will make good money, but dont let it slip through your fingers. Love partner would be extremely supportive and in a loving mood. High time for you to realize your true potentials. Its time for a vacation after a long and hard year at work. Buying overseas property will be beneficiary for you. Unexpected accolades bring happiness. Better to share them with close friends to double the joy. AQUARIUS: Promotion is likely to make you vulnerable, as everyone is watching you closely and failure could be embarrassing and expensive. Matrimonial alliance for eligible bachelor in family brings joy to all. Expenses take an upward swing as you involve yourself in group-entertainment. If possible, dont allow your romantic views to be aired. You need to develop self-trust to encourage yourself to fight illness. Time to relax and unwind for few days. You can apply for your home loan. Your innovative style & creativity will come as a pleasant relief to people. PISCES: Support and appreciation from seniors would raise your morale and confidence. A new outlook will be the source of laughter at family front today. Improvement in finances makes it convenient in clearing long pending dues & bills. A romantic week as you receive all praises from partner. You are likely to maintain good health that would also give you success. Vacations are meant to be fun filled and relaxing but hectic schedules may ruin it. Your search for a house is towards its final destination. You succeed in convincing people that colors have spiritual and symbolic values.

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

March 09 Ruled by number 9 and the planet Mars. You are intelligent, energetic, confident, enthusiastic and courageous person. You possess a sharp memory and amazing technical skills, but you need to check your tendency to behave short tempered and vindictive at times. This year professional advancement would depend on your ability to handle important responsibilities. Your significant other would be a real asset to you. This person would make your daily life comforting and enjoyable. Distant pilgrimage is certain later in the year. Be extra careful while lending money and take extra care of your jewelry, precious gifts and items. The months of August, October, January and February will be important. March 10 Governed by number 1, and the Sun, you are authoritative, dignified, determined, assertive and a passionate person. You have lot of in built talents and you can easily impress others with your intellect and knowledge, but you need to check your tendency to overspend and dominate others. This year will prove to be significant for those in creative jobs and for professional people. Financially things will improve a lot. Some of you may get promoted or transferred to a place of your choice. Real estate matters will take a shape. Renovation or beautification of the house or purchase of the luxurious items may be on the anvil. A few journeys are likely to take place, resulting in financial gains as well as an opportunity to meet imminent and influential people. Students will perform remarkably well in academics and sports. The months of May, July, November and January will be eventful. March 11 Ruled by number 2 and the planet Moon, you are imaginative, warm-hearted, emotional, honest, simple and hard working person. You are loyal to your friends and enjoy substantial respect within your group, but your fickle-mindedness and introvert behavior makes you loose many good opportunities that come you way. This year provides you with plenty of opportunities to improve your financial status. Foreign travel or transaction will prove beneficial. Disputes related with property will get resolved. A pilgrimage is on your cards later in the year, providing you with solace and mental comfort. Children will bring you good news, but at the same time theyll demand more attention. Take care of your health. The months of March, June, July and September will prove to be significant. March 12 Governed by number 3 and the planet Jupiter, you are ambitious, enthusiastic, hard-working, warm and kindhearted person. You do not compromise with the work. You have the command on the projects you undertake. You are well behaved and you can easily impress others with your decent manners and witty conversations, but you need to check your tendency to be restless and skeptical. Excellent returns from Investment that you would make this year. Foreign trip or transaction may prove to be highly beneficial. Property transaction, construction or renovation would be high on your agenda. Avoid any kind of confrontation and things that lead to tension and stress. Your family front needs to be handled carefully, otherwise you may face resentment from certain family members who expect lot from you. Weeding bells for some and others find healthy period of romance. The months of April, August, September and January will prove to be important and eventful. March 13 Influenced by number 4 and the planet Uranus, you are smart, confident, energetic, systematic, reliable and a studious person. Your efficiency and determination makes you achieve the maximum and stay ahead of others, but you need to control your tendency to behave stubborn, jealous and vindictive at times. This year you would start a brand new phase in your career, which might not be very creative but promises to bring good financial rewards. Long lasting contacts would build through social get-togethers and traveling. Unexpected help from a relative would give a major boost to your career. Your spouse will be quite cooperative and shower her full love and affection upon you despite your erratic behavior at times. The months of May, June, September and February will prove to be highly significant. March 14 Ruled by number 5 and the planet Mercury, you are active, smart, sensible, practical, systematic and highly diplomatic person. People admire you for your ability to take quick decisions, but you need to curb your tendency to behave moody, jealous and careless at times. This coming year sees new ventures and plans materializing to your benefit. You would enter new partnerships and your income would be from more than one source. Support from your partners and colleagues, would boost your morale and confidence. Family members would be understanding to your concern and extremely helpful. Your spouse especially would be a major source of emotional support. A distant journey later in the year cannot be ruled out. The months of April, July, October and December will prove to be highly eventful. March 15 Ruled by number 6 and the planet Venus, you are generous, practical, cooperative, accommodating and a broad-minded person. You have a large social circle and many acquaintances, but you like to share your personal life with only few. You are highly sincere to your friends, but you need to control your tendency to behave moody, dominating and jealous at times. This year your income would see an upswing primarily due to extra work that you do at your spare time. Home front would be peaceful with family members extending all possible help and cooperation. Growth opportunities would arise from new contacts you develop. Wedding bells for some in the last quarter of the year while others would find romance to keep them in the right spirit and good mood. The months of March, August, November and January will prove to be important and eventful.

Before you consult...

i) Accurate Data: Please make sure Date, Time and Place of birth is accurate. ii) Careful: Did you check background of the astrologer before disclosing your secrets. iii) Fee: Discuss the charges before, dont feel shy. Its his business. iv) Expectation: Expect the best, if the outcome is not as desired, never give up. v) Consult: Take second opinion before spending thousands on cure/remedies.

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March 9-15, 2013

SPIRITUAL AWARENESS

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Concluding part of the discourse 'Angel of love'

Be grateful for God's gifts

By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj
n this verse, the divine wine is circulating. How? In the company of one who has been asked by God to serve the wine. That person is known as the Cupbearer. The Cupbearer does not make the wine himself. His job is to get the wine from the producer, who is God, and just serve it. God is the wine producer. He has a storehouse of winethe wine of loveand is looking for tipplers to drink. Unfortunately, few tipplers come. He has enough wine for all people who inhabit the earth. He has enough for all the plants and animals. He has enough for all the souls in all the regions of creation. The problem isfew come forth to drink. Why? They are so lost in the cheaper wines of this earththe wine of lust, greed, attachment, ego, name, fame, money, and worldly pleasures useless wines that only give a few moments of inebriation, but no permanent happiness. They think that they are getting joy from worldly pleasures and pursuits. Little do they know of how much ecstasy and joy can be theirs if they partake of Gods wine. The Cupbearer has opened the Tavern to invite all to drink, free of charge. He does not care whether tipplers are rich or poor, to what religion or country they belong, what color hair, eyes, or skin they have, or what social status they hold. Like any tavern, it is open to all. The Cupbearer does not limit how much anyone wants to drink. They can drink as much as they want, and there is no fee. The Tavern is open twenty-four hours, every day, every week, every month, and every year. The Tavern keeper has no interest in anything but to serve as much of Gods wine as he can to anyone to drink as much as they want. God is eager for all to partake of his store. This is why the ones who have come to earth as Cupbearers to share Gods wine have been tireless, selfless souls who travel the earth ceaselessly to offer this cup to all who want it. We know them as saints, mystics, prophets, or Masters. They pour out without end the divine wine to put the tipplers in ecstasy. Once the tippler is intoxicated,

he or she is no longer caught up in the vicissitudes of life. When one is intoxicated, one loses awareness of ones body and surroundings. Unfortunately, worldly wine is such that this loss of awareness can end up hurting others and ones own self because one is no longer fully conscious. But the divine wine makes one super-conscious. Although not aware of our own problems, we are super-aware of the problems and hearts of others. We become even more sensitive. Rather, we forget ourselves and become attentive to others. Beyond this, when we decide we

Cupbearer draws our soul upwards to the seat of the soul. It provides the soul with an awakening to its own divinity. The magnetic attraction of the Cupbearers eyes pulls the iron filings towards it. This quickening of the soul is uplifting. It gives us our first reminder of the divine Wine on which we once had lived when we were in Gods home, but have since forgotten. He then teaches us how to open the faucet within ourselves so we can drink the divine Wine already within us. The Cupbearer is not the only one with the divine Winewe all have it within us.

want for ourselves. The next verse of Sant Darshan Singh Ji Maharaj is: With every breath I must bow to my Friend, For I owe my life to his grace. This verse truly reflects the attitude we should inculcate in our lives. Sant Darshan Singh Ji Maharaj is telling us that we should bow our heads in gratitude to God for every breath. We have seen what God is trying to offer us. God has given us our life. God has provided this wonderful earth with sun, water, air, plants to eat, and beauty to enjoy. For example,

Living life by loving and thanking God at every moment means we never forget God. If we never forget God then all our actions will be godly. All our decisions will be in accordance with the godly virtues. We will act in all situations as if God were with us and guiding our actions. We will be loving, caring, and helpful to all. Ultimately, we will attain communion with God.
want to sit in meditation, we are able to focus our attention so fully that we can become absorbed within and not be distracted by anything around us or our own thoughts. We can focus at the third or single eye, transcend body-consciousness, and see worlds of Light within us. To be embraced by God is to be lost in the greatest ecstasy. God is the greatest lover. The loves of this world are but reflections. Gods love is so fulfilling, every pore dances in ecstasy. There is so much incredible rapture in Gods love. Our problems melt away in Gods embrace. Where can we get the divine wine? The divine wine is spiritual. It is not physical. Because we are accustomed to getting input through our senses, many have not learned to realize the gifts that come to us spiritually because they are subtle. When our inner eye is opened, we can recognize the spiritual wine. Until then, we need guidance. The Cupbearer, in the form of a Master, teaches us how to drink the spiritual wine. He gives us a taste of it by his divine presence; he is pouring out the wine through his eyes. A peep into the eyes of a He just knows how to turn it on. He has come to turn on our own tap so we can drink from that which is already within us. He does this by teaching us meditation at the time of initiation. At initiation he opens the floodgates so the divine Wine pours out. He teaches us to recognize the spiritual Wine in the form of the divine Light and Sound. This Light and Sound flows within us. If we contact it, we can not only drink it, but travel on it back to God, the Home of the Divine Tavern keeper. The more we drink, the more we are immersed in Gods wine. When we return to God, a strange phenomenon happens. We merge with God and become the divine Wine ourselves. God is the divine Wine. By becoming one with God, we are then one with the divine Wine and our whole being is Light, Love, and ecstasy. If we want to drink of the divine Wine that makes us forget the problems of the world, we need to learn meditation from a Tavern keeper, and sit in meditation daily. We should get a boost from the company of one who is pouring out the divine Wine. Then we can go within and drink as much as we there is a story that Sant Kirpal Singh Ji Maharaj once told about the earth. A man once asked the earth, "You have such large, majestic mountains on you. It must feel like it is such a heavy burden to carry." The earth replied, "No, the mountains are not a burden to me." The man further asked, "You have such deep oceans and seas filled with millions of fish and sea life that live on you. Surely, that must feel like a heavy load on you!" The earth replied, "No, that is not a burden either." The man continued, "You have so many people, mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects living on you. I am sure that must be a heavy burden on you." The earth smiled and said, "No, that is not a burden at all." Finally, the man inquired, "Is there anything that causes you to feel burdened?" The earth sighed deeply and said, "Yes, there is something. When someone is ungrateful to God for the gifts God has giventhis burden I cannot bear." God has provided us many gifts to keep us alive. Besides that, God wants us to enjoy even further by

providing us the divine Wine, the inner spiritual gifts of Light and Sound. God sends the Cupbearer to give us as much as we want. It is we who do not accept Gods gifts. We turn from them in pursuit of paltry enjoyments and temporary gains. If we could realize what God has given us and wants to give us, we would sing Gods praises just as Sant Darshan Singh Ji does in this verse. Sant Darshan Singh Ji is thanking God with every breath. What does this mean? Every breath implies full attention at every moment. That means that Sant Darshan Singh Ji is suggesting that we live in God in every moment. Let us try an experiment. Go through a day and see how many times we can remember God. Is it once, or twice? Then, do we forget God and go back to thinking we are the doers, causing everything to happen? Try to increase the amount of time we live in God. Can we take God with us to work, to our families, to our friends, or to our activities? Can we keep God walking with us at every moment? We may call on God when our life is threatened but can we call on God while eating, dressing, walking, talking, working, playing, or sleeping? Such a one who can do this will find ecstasy and inebriation at all times. He or she will find himself or herself rising above problems, unaffected by the ups and downs of life. Sant Darshan Singh Ji Maharaj was not only the angel of love, but was, and is, love itself. On his birthday, let us celebrate by keeping his spirit alive every day, and not only every day, but also every moment. Living life by loving and thanking God at every moment means we never forget God. If we never forget God then all our actions will be godly. All our decisions will be in accordance with the godly virtues. We will act in all situations as if God were with us and guiding our actions. We will be loving, caring, and helpful to all. Ultimately, we will attain communion with God. My prayer is that we will experience the divine Wine God has to give, we will live in bliss, and we will always be grateful to God for all Gods gifts. So, as we sit in remembrance of Sant Darshan Singh Ji, we can reflect upon his love, and be grateful for all the gifts he gave us. Let us honor his memory by also leading a life of love.Let us pray that he keeps his blessings always over our heads.

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

March 9-15, 2013

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

March 9-15, 2013