The Indian Panorama

Month: March 2014

  • Physician Shortage Estimated to be over 130,000 by 2015

    Physician Shortage Estimated to be over 130,000 by 2015

    AAPI to advocate for more Residency slots during Legislative Day on Capitol Hill

    CHICAGO (TIP):With the beginning of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), health insurance coverage is expected to expand to an additional 34 million people in the United States. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) projects that universal coverage will increase the use of physicians by 4%,while the Bureau of Health Professions projects a 5.2% increase.

    According to Census projections, the overall population will increase by 15.2% from 2010 to 2025, and the population aged older than 65 years will grow by 60%,while those aged younger than 18 years will increase by 13%. Accordingly, it’s been estimated that the total number of office visits to primary care physicians alone for the United States will increase from a base of 462 million in 2008 to 565 million in 2025.

    Because of aging, the average number of visits to primary care physicians will increase from 1.60 in 2008 to 1.66 in 2025. By age 65, about two-thirds of senior citizens have at least one chronic disease, and 20 percent of Americans older than 65 see 14 or more physicians and average 40 physician visits each year. In addition to these changes, is the age factor of the currently practicing physicians themselves. Every 1 in 3 practicing physicians in the U.S. is over the age of 55 and is close to retirement.

    The irony, however, is that the number of Medicare-sponsored residency slots has been capped since 1997, and the Medical school graduates may exceed the number of residency positions by 2015. Struggling to meet these higher demands and reduced supply of physicians, the nation is projected to be short by more than 90,000 physicians by 2020 and 130,000 physicians by 2025, according to projections by the Association of American Medical Colleges. Indian-Americans constitute less than one percent of the country’s population, but they account for nine percent of the American doctors and physicians. As Forbes magazine aptly summed up, “The overrepresentation of Indians in these fields (engineering, IT and medicine) is striking – in practical terms, one out of seven doctors is likely to be of Indian Heritage.”

    They provide medical care to over 40 million of US population. The annual Legislative Day & Congressional Reception organized by Association of American Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, March 26th and Thursday, March 27th, 2014, with participation from dozens of key US Congressmen and Senators will be a perfect forum to advocate for more Residency Slots. “As you are aware, how important it is for us to be involved in the decision making on Bills that affect not only our patients but also us,” says Dr. Jayesh Shah, President of AAPI. “We’re pleased that bipartisan Members of Congress are joining us on Capitol Hill this month. Some of the important bills including SGR Repeal and increase in Residency Slots will be discussed during this session. Your presence on the Capitol Hill is more needed now than ever before.”


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    Dr. Ami Bera addressing AAPI delegates on Capitol Hill

    According to Dr. Shah, AAPI strongly supports the “Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2013,” introduced by U.S. Congressman Joe Crowley (D-NY) (H.R. 1180) and U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) (S. 577),which would provide an additional 15,000 residency positions in Fiscal Years 2015-2019. “Increasing the size of medical school classes is not enough. There must be a simultaneous increase in the size of residency positions to train these future doctors,” he says. Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, President-Elect of AAPI, says, “AAPI urges members of Congress to include physicians graduating from U.S. residency programs for Green Cards in the comprehensive immigration reform bill.

    “Physicians graduating from accredited U.S. residency programs should also receive similar treatment. Such a proposal would enable more physicians to be eligible for Green Cards and address the ongoing physician shortage,” he adds. As part of comprehensive immigration reform, a proposal may include international students graduating with degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) being fast-tracked for Green Cards. This proposal enables highly-skilled workers to remain in the United States after receiving their higher education in America. “We are pleased to inform you that a bipartisan legislation was recently introduced in Congress to permanently repeal the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) Formula,” Dr. Harbhajan Ajrawat, Chair of AAPI Legislative Affairs Committee,while referring to “SGR Repeal and Medicare Provider Payment Modernization Act of 2014,” H.R. 4015, says. “AAPI will continue monitoring this vital legislation and will be asking members of Congress tough questions about the SGR during our Legislative Day on Capitol Hill.”

    AAPI supports Congress providing a permanent fix to the Medicare sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula. In January 2013, Congress passed a temporary patch to avert a 26.5 percent cut,which expires in 2014. AAPI urges members of the House to cosponsor H.R. 574 to bring certainty to the Medicare reimbursement system, Dr. Ajrawat adds. Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Co-Chair of AAPI Legislative Affairs Committee, says, “In our continued goals to reach out to US Congress, our annual Legislative Conference will focus on burning issues like Medicare SGR, Immigration reform, Combating Obesity, Implementation Affordable Care and of course on growing USIndia relations in spite of few recent setbacks.” He has urged “the AAPI community to be part of this exciting event and share their enthusiasm and experience on various issues which promises to be very exciting event.”

    In the 112th Congress, AAPI helped secure the introduction of the “Doctors for Underserved Areas in America Act,” (H.R. 2805), by U.S. Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA),which would make the J-1 Visa Waiver Program permanent. The J-1 visa gives international medical graduates the opportunity to perform their medical training and residency in the United States. AAPI wants members of Congress to cosponsor legislation making the J-1 Visa Waiver Program permanent when it is reintroduced in the House and to cosponsor S. 616.In its efforts to maintain a healthy doctor-patient environment by curbing aggressive litigation targeting physicians, AAPI has been advocating for federal and state legislation that places effective caps on noneconomic damages, limits the use of joint-andseveral liability, provides physicians with flexibility to negotiate settlements with medical insurers and limits the statute of limitations for filing medical malpractice claims.

    “AAPI fully supports the nomination of Dr. Vivek H. Murthy as Surgeon General of the United States,” says Dr. Jayesh Shah,who along with his colleagues met with several key US Senators last month, seeking support for his confirmation. “Dr. Murthy has impeccable academic credentials and has been a longtime supporter of advancing health care across the United States. He has also worked tirelessly to support health care initiatives in rural India through his volunteerism and entrepreneurship.” AAPI’s Legislative Day Reception is scheduled on Wednesday, March 26, 2014 from 5 pm to 7 pm at B-340 Rayburn House Office Building. “Our legislative committee met more than six months ago and discussed in detail what type of reception we should host this year,” recalls Dr. Shah.

    “It came to light that in the late 1990’s, AAPI also hosted a well-attended dinner with congressional staff. Based on the feedback from committee members,we decided it would be best to go back to the feature of serving Indian food, as this past model was always well-received by Members of Congress and their staff.” The Indian Buffet Reception on Capitol Hill on March 26th will be addressed by: Rep. Alan Nunnelee (RMS); Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA); Rep. Tom Price, MD (R-GA); Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ); Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD); Rep. Phil Gingrey, MD (RGA); Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA); Rep. Joe Heck, DO (RNV); Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL); Rep. Gregg Harper (R-MS); and Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA). Ambassador Dr. S. Jaishankar will provide the keynote address during the Congressional reception.

    Among the many US lawmakers who have confirmed their participation addressing the AAPI delegates during the Legislative Conference on March 27th are: U.S. Congressmen Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman – House Foreign Affairs Committee; Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Ranking member – Health Subcommittee, House Energy and Commerce Committee; Rep. Joe Crowley (D-NY), Co-chairman – Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans; Rep. Peter Roskam (R-IL), Co-chairman – Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans; and Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Ranking member, Immigration Subcommittee and House Judiciary Committee.

  • Foods that keep you young

    Foods that keep you young

    Looking young is the foremost priority of most people these days. Not just women, even men are wary of ageing. Instead of using the number of anti-ageing creams that have flooded the markets, one can go the natural way and opt for fruits and vegetables to help fight all age-related problems. Here are a few superfoods that can help control ageing and make you look younger – AVOCADO – Apart from being high in Vitamin E, avocados are rich in antioxidants which help protect the skin. Avocados help in regenerating skin cells which makes your skin look fresh, giving a more youthful complexion.

    KIDNEY BEANS – These pulses are full of fibre and potassium which help reduce the cholesterol levels and thus reduce the risk of any heart disease. But their major health benefit is that they are packed with proteins. DARK CHOCOLATE – Any chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa is full of proteins and Vitamin B. Regular small bites into this chocolate will help burn fat and improve your skin and hair. BROCCOLI – Broccolis are a great source of fibre and Vitamin C which not only help control weight, but also help to fight heart diseases. BLUEBERRIES – Blueberries are rich in Vitamin C, which help in easy circulation of blood. Blueberries also contain certain minerals which help control the anti-ageing process. High in potassium, these berries help fight puffiness.

  • LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO BE CANCER FREE

    LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO BE CANCER FREE

    Recent research on the genetics of cancer may give an impression that some are fated for the disease, but that’s not necessarily true. Healthy behaviours could prevent about half of all cancer deaths. Here are seven dos and don’ts to reduce your risk of the dreaded disease. EXERCISE REGULARLY: Be physically fit. Research shows active people have a lower risk of developing colon and breast cancers than people who don’t exercise.

    You don’t need to be a superathlete to get the benefits of exercise. Any exercise that raises your heartrate and makes you sweat like brisk walking, biking, dancing or aerobics is beneficial. While at it, ensure that your weight is in the normal range for your height. Keep to a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or less. Increases in BMI are linked to endometrial, gall bladder, esophageal, renal, thyroid and colon cancers. Medical experts advise, stay within five to 10 kilos of what you weighed at 18.

    CUT DOWN ON ALCOHOL: Alcohol does not only put a load on your liver and slows vitamin absorption, but is also a contributing factor to oral cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, oral cancer is six times more common in alcohol users than in people who don’t drink. Limit your alcohol consumption. This means no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. And steer clear of weekend binge drinking. You tend to consume more alcohol than you would have set out to. NO SMOKING: The graphic packet makes it amply clear that ‘cigarette smoking is injurious to health’.

    Smoking causes a host of cancers, including that of the lung, esophagus, mouth, throat, stomach and pancreas, according to the National Cancer Institute. It’s also the leading cause of premature, preventable death. Is this relevant reason enough for smokers to quit the stub? GET SUN SCREENED: Protect your skin from the sun. Its ultraviolet rays damage the skin’s DNA and can cause genetic mutations that lead to skin cancer. Use sunscreen every time you go outdoors (preferably one with an SPF of 30 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays). Keep covered with a broad hat and sunglasses.

    Also, stay away from radiation. Avoid exposures to cancercausing substances. Radiation exposures and some chemicals are known to cause cancer. For example, ionizing radiation that comes from gamma rays, high-energy UV rays and X-rays is linked to cancers of the lung, skin, thyroid, breast and stomach. NO HRT: Women, as far as you can, avoid taking hormone replacement therapy to treat symptoms of menopause. A number of studies have linked hormone use to an increased risk of uterine cancer. If you need to take hormones, limit the use to less than five years, your gynaecologist would advise.

    FOLLOW A HEALTHY DIET: Eat a colourful diet rich in green leafy vegetables, pink carrots, and red tomatoes. It reduces the risk of cancer. Research suggests that a plant-based diet is associated with reduced risks for several cancers, especially colon cancer. The recommendations include keeping your intake of red meat to no more than four ounces per day. Avoid processed meats, eat at least five servings of a variety of non-starchy vegetables and fruits every day, and minimise your intake of sugary drinks, juices, desserts and candies, refined breads and chips.

    GO FOR SCREENING: Get screened for cancer regularly. Screening tests can detect cancers of the colon, breast, prostate, cervix and skin (ask your doctor how often to get them and at what age you should start). Even if you don’t have any symptoms, finding cancer early greatly increases your chances of treatment and even cure. Screening tests can include physical exams, blood tests, imaging and X-rays and genetic tests.

  • Mystic India: The World Tour transformed New Jersey Performing Arts Center into a colorful Indian oasis

    Mystic India: The World Tour transformed New Jersey Performing Arts Center into a colorful Indian oasis

    NEWARK, NJ (TIP): Nearly 2,500 people attended the much awaited Mystic India: The World Tour on March 8th in Newark, New Jersey at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Prudential Hall. Mystic India is an internationally acclaimed Bollywood dance spectacular based on the concept of ancient India’s transition into modern India.

    The show, created by Aatma Performing Arts, features renowned musicians, brilliant dancers, breathtaking aerialists and acrobats, and nearly 1,000 opulent costumes. “Mystic India brought Bollywood to Newark, dazzling over 2300 patrons at NJPAC on Saturday night! With 60 performers, Mystic India was a spectacle that had the crowd dancing in their seats, and showcased the breadth of music and dance that India has to offer.” said David Rodriguez, Executive Producer at NJPAC.

    Mystic India took the audience on a colorful journey through a well narrated story and dance. The show opened with a tribute of dances devoted to the Hindu gods, followed by a sequence of songs that traveled through the regions of India. Garba demonstrated the state of Gujarat while bhangra took center stage to represent Punjab. Mystic India highlighted the time of the Royal Emperors and majestic dances showcasing the love between King Akbar and his wife.


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    The energy at NJPAC went on an all time high when Mystic India showcased the many elements of Bollywood, including iconic film songs, infamous item numbers and evergreen Bollywood love story songs. Musicians and acrobats joined a team of 60 dancers to create a global spectacle. The team of diverse, impeccably trained dancers combined authentic Indian and modern techniques bringing the streets of Mumbai and New York into perfect harmony. The show also had an impressive 1,000 costume changes using a palate of bright bold colors, metallics and a whole host of sequence! Founder and Director of Mystic India, Amit Shah said “NJPAC has been a venue on our priority list for the past couple of years.

    It feels incredible to have performed on such a prestigious stage and to have worked with the NJPAC administrative and production team. When I was on stage, I had the opportunity to look out into the audience and see the packed house. I took a deep breath and really let the feeling sink in. It hit me and made me realize how far Aatma Performing Arts has some in such a short time. What makes a good show even greater is the audience. The audience’s energy at NJPAC was outstanding! We could hear the m singing the songs from the stage and it was truly uplifting for all the performers.

    It gave the cast so much motivation that when the show was over, we wanted to do it all over again.” This performance was part of NJPAC’s World Music Series sponsored by American Express. Programming was made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, by funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, and by Discover Jersey Arts. For more information, please visit: http://bit.ly/1dMgVJE.


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    About New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC):
    New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States and is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey — where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. As New Jersey’s Town Square, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the State’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted over seven million visitors (more than one million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit www.njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC for more information. NJPAC is a wheelchair accessible facility and provides assistive services for patrons with disabilities.


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    About Aatma Performing Arts:
    AATMA Performing Arts aims to unite traditional Indian dance styles, with modern forms of movement, resulting in a vivid amalgamation of eastern and western culture. With a dance troupe that travels internationally, as well as competitive dance schools in New York and New Jersey, AATMA’s focus is to preserve the culture of India, while incorporating it with American dance influences to create a brilliant fusion of art powerful enough to be understood by audiences worldwide.

  • JAISALMER, THE GOLDEN CITY

    JAISALMER, THE GOLDEN CITY

    Jaisalmer, the Golden City of India, is one of the most alluring tourist destinations in Rajasthan, India. Jaisalmer is famous for its magnificent forts, enchanting palaces, havelis (mansions) and centuries old houses. Jaisalmer is also known for its exotic sand dunes and exciting camel safaris. Jaisalmer has a number of exciting tourist attractions showcasing the royal grandeur of the bygone era. The major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer include the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon-ki-haveli, Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Salim-Singh- ki-haveli, Tazia tower, Bar Bagh and the beautiful Gadsisar Lake. Its exquisite handicrafts and colorful festivals are other major tourist attractions.

    Jaisalmer Fort
    Among some of the places that you must see in Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Fort, towering majestically above the city. It is also known as the ?living museum? because the fort contains numerous havelis which belonged to merchants in the 19th century. Palace of Maharawal -Another amazing place is the Palace of Maharawal which is located at Manek Chowk and is known for its beautiful sandstone facade. There are also various Hindu and Jain temples around this Palace which are well known for their beautiful engravings and architecture.

    Havelis of Jaisalmer
    The havelis of Jaisalmer such as Nathmalji ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli and so on count among the most breathtaking sights in the city. These havelis have elaborately and intricately carved walls and pillars, ornate chambers, fascinating paintings and magnificent wall murals which have mesmerized and intrigues tourists for decades. The Museum-For those who love to experience the past of places they travel to, there is the Desert Culture Centre and Museum.


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    This museum houses a comprehensive selection of weaponry, traditional music instruments belonging to the Rajputs and Rajasthani musicians, textiles, fossils and ancient coins. Lodurva palace- From the city of Jaisalmer, you can also visit the Lodurva Palace, which is a significant pilgrimage spot for Jains and is well known for its beautiful Jain temples.

    Gadisar Lake
    Besides these architectural wonders, you can also visit the beautiful Gadisar Lake, an artificial body of water which breaks the arid desert landscape. It is a popular site for picnics or leisurely strolls in the afternoon. Sand Dunes-The Sand Dunes at Sam, are a must visit for all travelers to Jaisalmer. These sand dunes are some of the most amazing natural formations in their most breathtaking form. These ever changing sand dunes are best experienced during different hours of the day when they change into a host of beautiful hues according to the movement of the sun in the sky.

    Desert National park
    For nature lovers, the Desert National Park is a lovely place to visit. It is a conserved biosphere housing the flora and fauna that comprise desert vegetation ranging from cacti to desert animal like foxes and porcupines.

    Akal Wood Fossil Park
    Another such place is the Akal Wood Fossil Park which contains the remains of fossils from a forest which was in the area over 100 million years ago. These fossils range from old rocks to sea shells. This park lies on the road from Jaisalmer to Barmer.

    Desert Festival
    Finally, no trip to this Rajasthani city is complete without seeing the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer. The festival is a riot of colours and music and is held for three days during the months of January or February and witnesses a host of amusements such as puppeteers, snake charmers, fire dancers, along with some of the best local cuisine of Rajasthan. A trip to Jaisalmer guarantees to be filled with adventure, history, a number of recreational activities, fine dining and lots of shopping. Experience Jaisalmer on your next holiday and enjoy a unique and charming part of India.

  • Wall Street Bonuses went up in 2013; Bonuses were boosted by Deferred Compensation, says DiNapoli

    Wall Street Bonuses went up in 2013; Bonuses were boosted by Deferred Compensation, says DiNapoli

    NEW YORK, NY (TIP): The average bonus paid to securities industry employees in New York City grew by 15 percent to $164,530 in 2013, which is the largest average bonus since the 2008 financial crisis, and the third highest on record, according to an estimate released on March 12 by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

    The bonus estimate includes cash bonuses for the current year, supplemented by compensation deferred from prior years. “Wall Street navigated through some rough patches last year and had a profitable year in 2013. Securities industry employees took home significantly higher bonuses on average,” DiNapoli said. “Although profits were lower than the prior year, the industry still had a good year in 2013 despite costly legal settlements and higher interest rates. Wall Street continues to demonstrate resilience as it evolves in a changing regulatory environment.”

    After record losses during the financial crisis, the securities industry has been profitable for five consecutive years, including the three best years on record. The industry reported profits for the broker/dealer operations of the New York Stock Exchange member firms, the traditional measure of profitability for the securities industry, totaled $16.7 billion in 2013, which is 30 percent less than in 2012 ($23.9 billion) but still strong by historical standards.

    The securities industry has undergone a major overhaul since the 2008 financial crisis. Regulatory reforms are changing the way the industry does business by requiring larger reserves, limiting proprietary trading and imposing other changes intended to reduce unnecessary risk and to enhance transparency. In response to compensation reforms, firms now pay a smaller share of bonuses in the current year and a larger share is deferred to future years. Even though the securities industry has been very profitable in recent years, the number of industry jobs in New York City has not returned to the pre-crisis level.

    DiNapoli estimates the securities industry employed 165,200 workers in New York City in December 2013, which is 12.6 percent fewer workers than before the financial crisis. After large job losses during the recession, employment in the securities industry in New York City has stabilized. DiNapoli’s office releases an annual estimate of cash bonuses paid to securities industry employees who work in New York City during the traditional bonus season. Bonuses paid by firms to their employees located outside of New York City (whether in domestic or international locations) are not included.

    The Comptroller’s estimate is based on personal income tax trends, which do not distinguish between cash bonuses for the current year and compensation deferred from prior years. The estimate does not include stock options or other forms of deferred compensation for which taxes have not been withheld. DiNapoli also reported that: · The bonus pool for securities employees who work in New York City also grew by 15 percent in 2013 to $26.7 billion during the traditional December-March bonus season. The Comptroller’s estimate includes cash bonuses for the current year, supplemented by bonuses deferred from prior years.

    Over the past two years, the bonus pool has grown by 44 percent, driven by compensation deferred from prior years; · Although data are not yet available for 2013, the average salary (including bonuses) paid to securities industry employees in New York City ($360,700 in 2012) was 5.2 times greater than the rest of the private sector ($69,200 in 2012); · Despite its relatively small size, the securities industry is still one of New York City’s major economic engines. The securities industry, for example, accounted for 22 percent of all private sector wages paid in New York City in 2012 even though it accounted for only 5 percent of the city’s private sector jobs; ·

    The securities industry generates a significant amount of tax revenue for New York state and New York City. DiNapoli estimates New York City collected $3.8 billion in taxes in fiscal year 2013 from activities directly attributed to the securities industry, nearly 27 percent more than in the prior year and the second-highest level on record. Although less than the prerecession peak (11 percent), the securities industry accounted for 8.5 percent of the city’s tax revenues; · New York state, which depends more heavily on Wall Street revenues than the city does, collected $10.3 billion in taxes attributed to the securities industry during SFY 2012-13.

    Last year, the securities industry accounted for 16 percent of all state tax revenue, less than the prerecession peak (20 percent); and · City tax revenues could be $100 million higher than anticipated in the city’s budget because it assumed a 5 percent decline in the bonus pool. The state budget assumes a 7.8 percent increase in bonuses for the entire financial sector. While there is the potential for some additional state tax revenue, the state outlook is more consistent with DiNapoli’s forecast.

  • 2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant on April 27th at Hofstra University

    2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant on April 27th at Hofstra University

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced March 13 that the 2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant will take place on April 27th at 2:30 p.m. at Hofstra University. The pageant comes to Nassau County after having been held in Suffolk County for many years.

    The New York Senior America Organization features 15 women contestants aged 60 years or older, who best exemplify the qualities of the modern dynamic senior. There will be an array of talent on display, including singers, dancers, and musicians. The pageant consists of four categories: a personal interview; a recitation of their philosophy of life; an evening gown presentation; and a talent performance.

    The judges will select the “Queen and her Court” and the winner will go on to Atlantic City in October to compete with queens from other states for the coveted National Crown and title of Ms. Senior America. Reserved seating for the 2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant is available for $25 per person. Group rates are available. To purchase tickets, please call Dolores Meglio at (631) 249- 0258. For more information please visit the website www.newyorksenioramerica.org.

  • Polls push IPL 7 to UAE, Bangladesh on standby

    Polls push IPL 7 to UAE, Bangladesh on standby

    NEW DELHI (TIP):
    Ending weeks of speculation and uncertainty, the Indian cricket board (BCCI) announced on Wednesday that the seventh season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be held in three phases from April 16 to June 1. The tournament will start in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and end in India but the final schedule is yet to be announced since there is still no clarity over a possible second phase to be held either in Bangladesh or India. That decision will depend on permission from the home ministry following complexities over providing security in an election year.

    The UAE will host the first 16 matches from April 16 to April 30, following which the tournament will come back to India or shift to Bangladesh from May 1 to May 12. The third and final phase, including remaining league matches and playoffs, will be held in India from May 13 onwards when the polling ends, the BCCI said. As reported by TOI, IPL teams are not in favour of hosting the majority of the tournament outside India for fear of a sharp fall in revenues from gate receipts. Thus, efforts are underway to seek a “favourable consideration” from the government for the second phase too.

    The home ministry had earlier told the BCCI that it would not be possible to provide security for the matches during the elections. “For May 1-12, the BCCI has approached the ministry of home affairs seeking permission to play IPL matches in India in cities where the polling has concluded in the respective states. The BCCI is extremely conscious of the various complexities involved but hopes for a favourable consideration.

    The BCCI will abide by the decision of the authorities in this regard. If it is not possible to play in India during this period, IPL matches will be held in Bangladesh and the BCCI is thankful to the Bangladesh Cricket Board and the government of Bangladesh for their support,” board secretary Sanjay Patel said in a statement. Patel said that from May 13 onwards, once the polling has been concluded in all states, the remainder of the tournament will be played in India. There will be no matches scheduled on the (vote) counting day — May 16.

    “The BCCI will take the advice of the authorities if any further restrictions are required around the counting day,” Patel said, thanking the Emirates Cricket Board for its support. A detailed schedule is expected soon. This will be the IPL’s second foray into international territory following the move to South Africa during the 2009 general elections. The South Africa choice did the rounds this time too but logistics and cost issues dictated the move to the UAE and possibly Bangladesh.

    India has stayed away from the UAE since the match-fixing scandal broke at the turn of the millennium, playing only two ODIs against Pakistan – both in April 2006 – in Abu Dhabi. Welcoming the move to shift the first leg of the IPL to the UAE, world body International Cricket Council (ICC) said the BCCI’s decision “is great news for the people of UAE and the region”. ICC chief executive dave Richardson said, “The BCCI’s decision to stage the first part of the IPL 2014 season in the UAE is great news for the people of the UAE and the region.

    It will complete a remarkable season of cricket in the UAE, which has already seen the successful staging of the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier 2013 and the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2014. “This news comes on the back of the onfield success of the UAE national team which has qualified for both the ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh and the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 in Australia and New Zealand and has the potential to propel cricket’s profile to new heights in the country.”

  • Peter Bheddah honored with Humanitarian of the Year Award

    Peter Bheddah honored with Humanitarian of the Year Award

    NEW YORK (TIP): Peter Bheddah was honored with the Humanitarian of the Year award at the 2014 INNkeepers’ Ball on May 8th. Peter has been a friend and supporter of The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network) for over 15 years, and has also been instrumental in leading the India Association of Long Island’s support of The INN.

    According to Jean Kelly, Executive Director of The INN, “Peter is an outstanding source of inspiration to us and the Indian community and because of his exceptional thoughtfulness and generosity we are honored to acknowledge him.” Peter who hails from Kutch district of Gujarat, came to the United States in 1960 for further studies in Economics and International Relations.

    He met his would be significant half Dorothy at Columbia University. The two fell in love, leading to their marriage in 1964. Bheddahs have two daughters Karen Bheddah O’Rourke and Sheila Bheddah. Karen has two children – Grace and Liam. Peter ran a very successful Wholesale Electronics business from 1972 to 2001 and came to have enough to bank on for a relaxed retired life. Given to social involvement and philanthropy, Peter got associated with Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation and was its President in 1992 – 1994.

    He is a member of the Board of Directors since 1987. Not to forget his roots in Gujarat and his bond with Gujaratis, he has been active in Gujarati Samaj of New York, of which he was President in 2001 -2002. He is a Trustee of Samaj since 2011. Peter is also Advisory Board Member of Heart & Hand for the Handicapped from 2003 to Present. He was President of Long Island Chapter of Indian National Overseas Congress from 2008 – 2012.


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    (Left to right): Rob Kammerer (co-chair), Peter Bheddah, Fran Gutleber, Amy Hughes, John Hughes, Jean Kelly (INN Executive Director), Harry DiSimone (INN Board President). Steve Richman (co-chair)

    He is a Founding member and a Grand Sponsor of the DIWALI FOOD DRIVE from 1995 to 2013. Under the umbrella of India Association of Long Island (IALI) Food Drive has provided INTERFAITH NUTRITION NETWORK (INN) with more than 400,000 meals, truck loads of foods and $400,000 of medicines to Rota Care. During 2001 earthquake in Kutch, Gujarat, India, Peter supported projects worth $1,000,000 (One million dollars) building a Hospital, two Schools, and 500 Houses. Peter has been recognized for his work and contribution by many organizations.

    He is a recipient of numerous awards including “ELLIS ISLAND MEDAL OF HONOR” in 2012. A lifelong Democrat, he was keynote speaker for Hilary Clinton during her senatorial campaign in 2001. He and Dorothy were invited twice to White House – in 1993 and 1995. Peter has always believed and practices that good fortune should be shared with the needy and the less fortunate in this country as well as in India. Also honored at the Ball on Thursday, May 8th at the Long Island Marriott in Uniondale, were Amy and John Hughes.

    The Honorary Chair is Fran Gutleber. The INN is a volunteer based charitable organization that operates soup kitchens in 22 Long Island communities, provides shelter for 150 children and adults each night in clean and safe housing and offers a full range of supportive services. Since its founding, INN volunteers have served over ten million hot, nutritious meals

  • South Africa demanded Rs 180 crore to host IPL 7

    South Africa demanded Rs 180 crore to host IPL 7

    NEW DELHI (TIP): BCCI would have loved to host the IPL in South Africa but the plan was shelved because of the cost factor. According to sources, Cricket South Africa ( CSA) was demanding close to Rs 180 crore to host the T20 event, though it could not be ascertained if the demand was for hosting the entire event or just a part.

    The steep demand put off not only the board but also IPL team owners who did not want to spend that kind of money. Thus, South Africa lost out as a possible host as the teams did not want to go there even for a part of the event. In comparison, BCCI will need to spend a total of around Rs 60 crore on staging the event in UAE, and if needed, Bangladesh. Of course, the board will save some more money if the government allows IPL matches in India from the first week of May itself.

    “These venues work out to be cheaper. The intention is to play as many matches as possible in India. The calculations have been done but we will get correct figures only after home ministry’s direction,” a top BCCI official told TOI. Franchises hope that a large population of expats in UAE will help boost revenue from gate receipts which would compensate them partly

  • Sania Mirza and Cara Black storm into semifinals at Indian Wells

    Sania Mirza and Cara Black storm into semifinals at Indian Wells

    INDIAN WELLS (TIP): India’s Sania Mirza and her Zimbabwean partner Cara Black knocked out second-seeded Russians Ekaterina Makarova and Elena Vesnina to enter the semifinals of the women’s doubles at the BNP Paribas Open.

    Fifth-seeded Mirza and Black won 6-4, 6-1, Wednesday and will now play fourth seeds Czech Lucie Hradecka and China’s Jie Zheng who defeated Kveta Peschke and Katerina Srebotnik in a hard-fought quarterfinal super tie-break 7-5, 5-7, 10-3.

  • Tiger Woods has lost his intimidation factor: Ex-caddy

    Tiger Woods has lost his intimidation factor: Ex-caddy

    SYDNEY (TIP):
    Outspoken caddy Steve Williams says former employer Tiger Woods has lost his intimidation factor, as the New Zealander revealed he will quit full-time golf this year. Williams, who was sacked by Woods in 2011 after helping him win all but one of his 14 major titles, added that he had yet to reconcile with the world number one, but hopes to one day.

    “There’s just personal things and differences of opinion about how things went down. He thinks one thing and I think another,” Williams, who now carries the bags of Australian world number two Adam Scott, told Fox Sports late Tuesday. “I need to sort that out with him. But I haven’t had the opportunity sit down with him and iron out a few things, but it will happen at some stage.” Williams was fired after Woods’ slide down the world rankings following the revelation that the American had a string of extra-marital affairs.

  • Indian Cinema Megastar Vidya Balan joins the IIFA on a multi-city promotional tour in the US

    Indian Cinema Megastar Vidya Balan joins the IIFA on a multi-city promotional tour in the US

    NEW YORK, NY (TIP): The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) is visiting the United States for a special multi-city promotional tour of New York, Houston, Tampa and Orlando from the 11th – 14th of March.

    Accompanying them is one of Indian cinema’s biggest names, actress Vidya Balan who will spread the word about the upcoming IIFA Celebrations presented by Freedom Health. The Videocon d2h IIFA Weekend 2015 will be held from the 23rd to the 26th of April in Tampa Bay. IIFA partnered US Bollywood Enterprise on the New York leg of the US promotional tour.

    Actor, Vidya Balan said, “Having traveled to a number of exotic locales the world over, IIFA has made its mark on the map, educating the world about Indian Cinema. Going forward, I am very pleased to be a part of IIFA’s landmark journey, as they venture into the United States, in Tampa Bay. I am excited to be a part of the IIFA Master Class this year and look forward to engaging with my fans in the US.”

  • Halep breezes into Indian Wells semifinals

    Halep breezes into Indian Wells semifinals

    INDIAN WELLS (TIP):
    Romania’s Simona Halep breezed past Australian qualifier Casey Dellacqua 6-2, 6-2 on March 12 to book a semifinal berth at the Indian Wells hardcourt tennis tournament. Halep, the sixth seed, needed precisely one hour to get past Dellacqua, saving all five break points she faced and breaking the 78th-ranked Aussie twice in each set. Halep next faces either former world number one Jelena Jankovic, the seventh seed, or second-seeded Agnieszka Radwanska, who were meeting under the floodlights at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden on Wednesday night. Top seed Li Na, the reigning Australian Open champion and world number two, will take on Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova in a rematch of the Australian Open final in a quarter-final clash on Thursday.

    The winner of that match will face either 17th-seeded American Sloane Stephens or Italian Flavia Pennetta, the 20th seed. Halep, 22, has won seven WTA tour titles, six of them in her breakout 2013 campaign and at Doha this year. But the world number seven is through to the semifinals of one of the WTA’s elite Premier Mandatory tournaments for the first time. “I was moving really well today,” said Halep, who had said she felt sluggish against rising Canadian star Eugenie Bouchard in her fourth round match on Tuesday.

    “I had no pressure, and I was more relaxed than yesterday. I tried my best. My game is to be aggressive, to hit the balls, and I did really well today.” Halep said it wasn’t Dellacqua’s lower ranking that took the pressure off, but the confidence of having two good wins behind her, against Bouchard and Czech Lucie Safarova. “I won two important matches before. I said that if I’m in quarter-finals I have just to enjoy to play what I can. So I tried and everything was going very well.”

    After her spectacular 2013 season, Halep confirmed her class with a sparkling run to the Qatar Open last month. She breezed past fourth-seeded Italian Sara Errani before beating former Wimbledon finalist Radwanska in the semifinals and downing Angelique Kerber in the title match. Her success has made her a celebrity in her native Romania — something the player who calls herself “a normal girl” is still getting used to. “I was surprised when I wanted to park and I didn’t have space. Someone came and put me in front of the hotel.

  • Mangano helps bring New Housing opportunities to Roslyn’s Downtown

    Mangano helps bring New Housing opportunities to Roslyn’s Downtown

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced March 12 that the Nassau Industrial Development Agency (IDA) has approved an economic compact for Lumber Earth Realty, LLC to bring 20 new housing opportunities and street-level retail stores to the Village of Roslyn’s downtown, while eliminating a vacant building through an adaptive reuse project that removes blight from the community.

    County Executive Mangano stated, “My administration has made it a priority to create new ways in which to assist families, seniors, and young adults with rental housing options. Together with the IDA, we have helped create over 970 new housing opportunities in Nassau County. This project in the Village of Roslyn will assist residents with new housing opportunities while eliminating community blight and generating millions in economic benefit for the community.”

    The Village of Roslyn has approved the $11 million project, which is expected to create 40 full-time equivalent construction jobs and 44 new full-time equivalent permanent positions. It is anticipated that the project will inject $5.7 million into the Nassau County economy and be completed by the spring of 2016.

    About the Nassau County IDA
    The Nassau County Industrial Development Agency consists of a team of professionals whose mission is to promote the economic welfare and prosperity of Nassau County. It is a resource for businesses in Nassau County and those considering relocation. The IDA provides assistance to businesses interested in relocating, expanding and financing new investments. It has provided assistance to a wide range of companies, including Hain Celestial Group, Arizona Iced Tea, Sleepy’s Mattress, Cold Spring Harbor Labs and Grumman Studios. For more information, please visit www.nassauida.org or call 516-571-1945.

  • Indian American Community extends a warm welcome to Ambassador Jaishankar

    Indian American Community extends a warm welcome to Ambassador Jaishankar

    ommunity accorded a warm welcome to Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s Ambassador to the USA, and Mrs. Kyoko Jaishankar at the Consulate, at a function organized by the Consul General in cooperation with GOPIO International.

    The Consul General D.M. Mulay introduced Ambassador Jaishankar and lauded his experience in International diplomacy and wished him well. Ashook Ramsaran, President of GOPIO presented a plaque on behalf of the community and urged an ongoing dialogue with the Diaspora for mutual benefit.


    6
    Consul General Dnyaneshwar Mulay speaks of the rich experience of Ambassador Jaishankar

    He said the community will extend all support to the Ambassador and hoped the Ambassador will always be there to support the community. In his reply, the Ambassador appreciated the warm welcome he was accorded and admired the achievements of the Indian American community in all spheres of life here in their adopted land.


    7
    GOPIO President Ashook Ramasaran honors Ambassador Jaishankar with a plaque

    ‘You were the game changer when it came to passing the Indo-US civil nuclear treaty’ he said referring to the legislative hurdles in U.S which were overcome with the support of the Diaspora. Others who spoke on the occasion included NJ Assemblymen Upendra Chivukula and Raj Mukherji. The reception to the Ambassador was very well attended.


    8
    A view of the gathering

  • New York City Explosion levels two buildings 8 Killed, 70 injured

    New York City Explosion levels two buildings 8 Killed, 70 injured

    NEW YORK, NY (TIP): An explosion leveled two buildings March 12 morning in East Harlem, sending flames and smoke billowing into the air. The initial number of 2 killed and about 20 injured has gone up to 8 killed and 70 injured. Speaking from the scene, Mayor Bill de Blasio said the explosion appeared to be caused by a gas leak.

    He said there are a “number” of people missing. prior to this evening’s discovery. Several people are reported missing and have not yet been found, Fire Department officials said. Four of the victims have been identified so far. Among them, 43-year-old Andreas Panagopoulos, a Greek musician who worked in advertising; 21-year-old Mexican national Rosaura Hernandez-Barrios; Griselde Camacho, who worked as a public safety officer at Hunter College; and Carmen Tanco, 67.

    Other bodies found overnight and this morning include two unidentified adult men and another adult female who was badly burned, city officials said. At least five people were unaccounted for, the NYPD reported before the eighth body was found this evening. One of those women, Rosaura Barrios Vazquez, 44, is believed to be the mother of the deceased Hernandez-Barrios, the Mexican consulate said. The most seriously injured survivor, 15-year-old Oscar Hernandez, is also thought to be related to those two women.

    At a news conference on March 12, Mayor Bill de Blasio said authorities are “continuing rescue operations hoping to find others alive.” “This city is no stranger to adversity,” de Blasio said. “We somehow persevere despite everything thrown at us.” At least 70 others were injured in the incident, which happened at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday in the building at 116th Street and Park Avenue in the East Harlem neighborhood of New York City. Con Edison was responding to a report of a gas odor when the explosion happened, city officials said. “There are still a lot of unknowns here and that only adds to the difficulty,” de Blasio said.

    There were no reports of gas leaks in 30 days preceding the incident, Fire Commissioner Sal Cassano said at the press conference. Con Edison also searched its records going back three years and the only reports were minor leaks in customer lines, not gas mains — the latest one in May 2013, said CEO John McAvoy. Before investigators can determine the cause of the explosion, the still smoldering fire will have to be extinguished and the rubble cleared, officials said. “What we need to do is get to the basement,” Cassano said, to find the source of ignition or leak. Google images of the building show two commercial storefronts on the ground floor with four floors of residential apartments above those storefronts. The NYPD has ruled out terrorism as a cause of the explosion, but the bomb squad and the FBI are both on the scene.

  • Indian ambassador presents credentials to Obama

    Indian ambassador presents credentials to Obama

    WASHINGTON (TIP): The new Indian ambassador to the US, Dr. S Jaishankar formally presented his credentials to President Barack Obama at his oval office at the White House on March 10. Jaishankar was second of the six ambassadors who presented their credentials to Obama one by one in a traditional ceremony that marks the formal beginning of an ambassador’s service in Washington.

    Pakistan’s Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani also presented his credentials along with the new envoys of Tunisia, Papua New Guinea, Belgium and Qatar. Although he formally presented his credentials to Obama only March 10, Jaishankar spent the last couple of months since his arrival here on Christmas eve to put the India-US relations back on track after the diplomatic row over the Khobragade affair.

    Jaishankar, who played a key role in negotiating the landmark India-US civil nuclear deal and other initiatives, used his wide contacts with the Washington bureaucracy dealing with South Asia to defuse the crisis over the December 12 arrest and strip search of India’s then consul general in New York, Devyani Khobragade. Coming to Washington after four years as the Indian ambassador in China, he succeeded Nirupama Rao, whom he had replaced in Beijing too when she returned to New Delhi to become foreign secretary.

    Son of India’s leading strategic thinker, the late K.Subrahmanyam, Jaishankar comes to Washington, DC with more than three decades of diplomatic experience. Joining the Indian Foreign Service in 1977, he spent three years from 1985 to 1988 as first secretary handling political affairs at the Indian embassy in Washington.

    He has also served as India’s ambassador to the Czech Republic, High Commissioner to Singapore and as head of Americas division in the ministry of external affairs. Jaishankar holds a Ph.D and M.Phil in International Relations and a Master in Political Science. He is a member of the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London. He is married to Kyoko Jaishankar and they have two sons and a daughter.

  • NO CLUE YET OF THE MALAYSIA AIRLINES MISSING PLANE

    NO CLUE YET OF THE MALAYSIA AIRLINES MISSING PLANE

    KUALA LUMPUR (TIP): Six days after the plane with 239 people aboard disappeared, Malaysian authorities expanded their search westward toward India, saying the aircraft may have flown for several hours after its last contact with the ground shortly after takeoff from Kuala Lumpur for Beijing.

    A string of previous clues about Flight MH370 have led nowhere. “MH370 went completely silent over the open ocean,” said Malaysia’s acting Transport Minister Hishammuddin Hussein. “This is a crisis situation. It is a very complex operation, and is not obviously easy.We are devoting all our energies to the task at hand.”

    A U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn’t authorized to discuss the situation by name, said the Boeing 777-200 wasn’t transmitting data to the satellite, but was instead sending out a signal to establish contact. Boeing offers a satellite service that can receive a stream of data during flight on how the aircraft is functioning and relay the information to the plane’s home base.

    The idea is to provide information before the plane lands on whether maintenance work or repairs are needed. Malaysia Airlines didn’t subscribe to that service, but the plane still had the capability to connect with the satellite and was automatically sending pings, the official said. “It’s like when your cellphone is off but it still sends out a little ‘I’m here’ message to the cellphone network,” the official said.

    “That’s how sometimes they can triangulate your position even though you’re not calling because the phone every so often sends out a little bleep. That’s sort of what this thing was doing.” The plane had enough fuel to fly about four more hours, the U.S. official said. Boeing did not comment. Messages involving a different, more rudimentary data service also were received from the airliner for a short time after the plane’s transponder – a device used to identify the plane to radar – went silent, the official said.

    Malaysia: No Debris at Spot From Chin
    If the plane had disintegrated during flight or had suffered some other catastrophic failure, all signals – the pings to the satellite, the data messages and the transponder – would be expected to stop at the same time. One part of the hunt is in the South China Sea, where the aircraft was seen on civilian radar flying northeast before vanishing without any indication of technical problems. A similarsized search is also being conducted in the Strait of Malacca because of military radar sightings that might indicate the plane turned in that direction after its last contact, passing over the Malay Peninsula.

    The total search area being covered is about 35,800 square miles (92,600 square kilometers) – about the size of Portugal. Asked if it were possible that the plane kept flying for several hours, Hishammuddin said: “Of course.We can’t rule anything out. This is why we have extended the search.We are expanding our search into the Andaman Sea.” The sea is northwest of the Malay Peninsula. He said Malaysia was asking for radar data from India and other neighboring countries to see if they can trace it flying northwest. India says its navy, air force and coast guard will search for the plane in the south Andaman Sea.

    View gallery
    “Because of new information, we may be part of an effort to open a new search area in the Indian Ocean,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said earlier Thursday, declining to offer additional details about that information or the new area. The U.S. Navy 7th Fleet said it is moving one of its ships, the USS Kidd, into the Strait of Malacca, west of Malaysia. In the latest disappointment, search planes failed to find any debris from the plane after they were sent Thursday to an area of the South China Sea off the southern tip of Vietnam, where satellite images published on a Chinese government website reportedly showed three suspected floating objects. “There is nothing.We went there. There is nothing,” Hishammuddin said. More than two-thirds of those on Flight MH370 were from China, which has shown impatience with the absence of any results. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Thursday in Beijing he would like to see better coordination among countries in the search.

    View gallery
    The passengers’ “families and friends are burning with anxiety. The Chinese government and Chinese people are all deeply concerned about their safety,” he said at the close of the annual session of the country’s legislature. “As long as there is a glimmer of hope, we will not stop searching for the plane.” He said China had eight ships and 10 satellites searching for the plane. Malaysia has been criticized for its handling of the search, in part because it took several days to fully explain why it couldn’t say whether the plane had turned back. Officials say they are not hiding anything and are searching areas where the plane is most likely to be, while trying to establish its actual location. Besides the Chinese satellite photos and the so-far fruitless search based on the possible sighting on military radar, there have been other developments in the aviation mystery that have failed to lead to finding the plane or the cause of its disappearance: Oil slicks seen Saturday, March 8, were found to have nothing to do with the jetliner.

    View gallery
    – A yellow object spotted by a search plane turned out to be ordinary sea trash. – Officials initially said four or five passengers checked in for the flight but did not board, fueling speculation about terrorism. Officials later said some people with reservations never checked in and were simply replaced by standby passengers, and no baggage was removed. – Officials said two men, later identified as Iranians, boarded the plane with stolen passports. It was later reported that they were unlikely to be linked to terrorist groups. Investigators have not ruled out any possible cause for the plane’s disappearance

  • Dismissal of Indictment against Devyani applauded

    Dismissal of Indictment against Devyani applauded

    Do Curtains draw?
    NEW YORK, NY (TIP): The US has dismissed charges against Indian diplomat Devyani Khobragade, but prosecutors suggested they might refile the charges stemming from claims she exploited her housekeeper. For now, at least, March 12 ruling closes the case against Devyani Khobragade on the grounds of diplomatic immunity.

    The judge found Khobragade had broad immunity from prosecution when she was indicted on charges of fraudulently obtaining a work visa for her housekeeper and lying to the government about the maid’s pay. But the ruling left open the possibility prosecutors could bring a new indictment against her, and they “intend to proceed accordingly,” said James Margolin, a spokesman for Manhattan US Attorney Preet Bharara.

    Margolin said in a statement post verdict, March 12,”The District Court found that Devyani Khobragade had immunity during a limited period of time between January 8 and January 9, when the indictment was returned by a grand jury. As the court indicated in its decision and as Devyani Khobragade has conceded, there is currently no bar to a new indictment against her for her alleged criminal conduct, and we intend to proceed accordingly.” Khobragade’s attorney, Daniel Arshack, said the former deputy general consul, now back in India, was pleased by the ruling.

    “She is heartened that the rule of law prevailed,” he said, adding that a new indictment “might be viewed an aggressive act and one that (prosecutors) would be ill-advised to pursue.” Khobragade was arrested in December, with prosecutors saying she claimed she paid her Indian maid $4,500 per month to get the woman a visa but actually paid her less than the US minimum wage. Prosecutors said the maid received less than $3 per hour for her work. The arrest outside Khobragade’s daughter’s Manhattan school created outrage in India, particularly because of the strip-search.

    The US Marshals said Khobragade was treated no differently than others who are arrested. Bharara said Khobragade was arrested discreetly, given coffee and offered food while detained and afforded courtesies most Americans wouldn’t get, such as being allowed to make phone calls for two hours to arrange child care and sort out personal matters. Bharara, who was born in India but moved with his family to the US, also said Khobragade wasn’t handcuffed, restrained or arrested in front of her children. Still, many in India saw the arrest as unnecessarily humiliating. Indian National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon called the treatment “despicable and barbaric.” Khobragade had pleaded not guilty.

    Indian officials said the housekeeper had tried to blackmail the diplomat, which the housekeeper’s advocates disputed. The episode chilled US-Indian relations, and India took such steps as removing concrete traffic barriers around the US Embassy and revoking diplomats’ ID cards. US Secretary of State John Kerry called a top Indian official to express his regret over what happened. After being indicted, Khobragade complied with a Department of State request to leave the US. The Indian government then asked Washington to withdraw a diplomat from the US Embassy in New Delhi. The US complied. Wednesday’s ruling centered on the complexities of different levels of legal protection afforded to diplomats.When Khobragade was arrested, US officials said her status as a consular officer provided immunity limited to acts performed in the exercise of official functions.

    She disagreed, and then, on the day before her 9 January indictment, she got a new appointment that conferred wider immunity. Regardless of Khobragade’s status when she was arrested, her later appointment gave her immunity when indicted and means the case must be dismissed, US District Judge Shira Scheindlin wrote. And while Khobragade’s immunity ended when she left the country, the indictment still could not stand, the judge wrote. The judge said that mooted the question of whether the crimes Khobragade was accused of committing would have been considered “official acts” covered by the earlier, more limited immunity. If not, the judge wrote, “then there is currently no bar to a new indictment against Khobragade.” Since Khobragade does not have immunity now and courts have yet to settle what protection she had when arrested, that leaves a potential path for a new indictment, though any new case might be complicated by Khobragade’s absence from the US. She is in New Delhi, continuing to work for the government in foreign affairs, Arshack said.

    “She’s hugely frustrated” by her arrest and prosecution, he added. In another statement, refuting the perception that Preet Bharara is targeting Indians, James M. Margolin, Chief Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, SDNY, said, March 12 late afternoon: “Regarding the perception that Preet Bharara is “targeting Indians,” I would note that the US Attorney’s Office does not “target” any group of individual. The Office prosecutes people for whom there is evidence of criminal conduct. A very small percentage of defendants in cases brought by this office happens to be Indian or of Indian descent, but their ethnicity or national origin has nothing to do with why they are prosecuted.

    Nor does ethnicity, national origin, religion or any other demographic characteristic have any bearing on the prosecution of any of the hundreds of other defendants prosecuted by this Office every year. And the U.S. Attorney himself does not suggest charges or decide to bring them; cases are investigated and brought by law enforcement agents working with the prosecuting attorneys in our Office.” Commenting on the dismissal of Indictment of Devyani Khobragade, eminent attorney Ravi Batra said, “Judge Scheindlin’s Order today vindicates both judicial independence and judicial excellence – she rightly acknowledged the immunity that India’s FM Khurshid negotiated with our State Dept in January and it’s consequential effect on the Indictment unsealed on January 9th. What is also clear is that on December 12th, when Devyani was arrested, she did not enjoy immunity from the arrest. One can only hope that US Attorney Preet Bharara’s exercise of prosecutorial discretion results in not re-indicting Devyani.

    There has been enough pain and suffering bilaterally, and we need these two countries to re-join the call of destiny: to help form a more perfect world.” Meanwhile, George Abraham, Chairman, INOC, has applauded the decision to dismiss the indictment against Devayani Khobragade in the visa fraud case with the ruling that she had full diplomatic immunity. ‘Whatever the merit of the case, it has become a major irritant to the USIndia relationship and something had to happen to resume normalcy’ said Mr. Abraham. ‘We hope that this court decision will just do that’.

    In a major relief for 39-year-old Khobragade that came exactly three months after her arrest, District Judge Shira Scheindlin said in her 14- page order “it is undisputed” that the diplomat acquired full diplomatic immunity at 5:47 pm on January 8 after the US State Department approved her accreditation as a counselor to India’s mission to the UN. ‘US-India friendship and strategic partnership is too important in the global arena to be frozen in place due to some squabbling over a visa issue. INOC applauds the US State and Justice Department in reaching at the proper decision to diffuse the whole issue so that they could reengage in a more serious conversation of the shared values of both nations and work together in the global arena to advance the cause of peace and upward mobility for all its citizens.’ The statement continued.

  • BJP to roll out 250 Narendra Modi raths in Bihar

    BJP to roll out 250 Narendra Modi raths in Bihar

    PATNA (TIP): Now the tele-image of BJP’s poster boy cum PM pick Narendra Modi (NaMo) would begin to stalk anytime soon all the 40 parliamentary seats in Bihar over the next 50 days, as 250 specially designed vehicles, called ‘NaMo raths’, each fitted with LED screen and GPS system, would move in the state, stopping at 1,000 select points every day, to show a documentary on his rise from “tea vendor to PM candidate.”

    As many as 116 ‘NaMo raths’ were ready for flagging off from the Gait Public Library ground in Gardanibagh locality, but for the spanner thrown by the district administration on Friday. Their movement has been planned as per the six-phase poll schedule announced for the state. “Every vehicle would stop at four points a day. So, 250 raths would facilitate 50,000 meetings in the next 50 days.

    Now, they would be released as and when the Patna district administration gives its clearance,” said state BJP chief Mangal Pandey on Friday. The raths would cover most of the towns, 8,463 panchayats and around 56,000 villages. They are expected to accentuate the curiosity of people about NaMo and BJP’ Mission 2014 pegged to replacing the UPA at the Centre. The 25-minute documentary on the profile of NaMo would be shown at every stop, followed by around 40-minute brief speeches by BJP leaders on the rath to turn it into a public meeting.

    The movement of every rath would be tracked from the party’s state headquarters, while a party worker on it would feed the state HQ with details about every such meeting through his mobile phone. Mangal Pandey said, “If the administration tries to obstruct their (raths’) release by invoking laws and Acts, it will lead to serious problems. We don’t think that rules are being violated. It is the biggest mass contact programme that we have planned to unleash,” Pandey added.

    Incidentally, on Friday morning, a contingent of police personnel and magisterial officials swooped on the Gait Public Library ground, alleging violation of the Motor Vehicle (MV) Act. Former deputy CM Sushil Kumar Modi said, the officials told party that the MV Act had been violated, because the bodies of vehicles had been changed without permission from the administration. “The charge made by them was infantile.

    The change made in the bodies of the vehicles is temporary, but the explanations given had no effect,” Modi said. Leader of opposition in the state assembly Nand Kishore Yadav described the stance of the administration as “hitting BJP below the belt” on behalf of CM Nitish Kumar. Incidentally, on Saturday, coinciding with the celebration of International Women’s Year, NaMo’s address on women’s empowerment, delivered from Gujarat, would be relayed from the LED screens at 102 places in all the subdivisional towns in Bihar, as part of second instalment of his ‘chai pe charcha’ programme.

  • JD-U to field filmmaker Prakash Jha in LS polls

    JD-U to field filmmaker Prakash Jha in LS polls

    PATNA (TIP): Filmmaker Prakash Jha will contest the Lok Sabha election from Bettiah parliamentary constituency in Bihar on a Janata Dal-United ticket, state JD-U president Vashisht Narain Singh said.

    Jha’s name figured in the first list of four candidates released by the JD-U for the general elections. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced Jha’s candidature for the polls Thursday during his Sankalp Yatra in East Champaran district, Singh said. The party has decided to field Jha, a native of a village near Bettiah, keeping in view the caste equation on the ground.

    Jha contested and lost the 2009 Lok Sabha election, but is hopeful of wooing voters of all sections, particularly Muslims, this time. He fought on a Lok Janshakti Party ticket in 2009. The filmmaker has been campaigning in the state, particularly in Bettiah, for nearly a month and addressed a public meeting Thursday along with the chief minister.

    Jha also staged a dharna with Nitish Kumar in a protest over the denial of special category status to Bihar March 2 in Patna. He announced he would soon make a film on the subject. Jha is known for making films like “Gangaajal”, “Apaharan”, “Raajneeti”, “Satyagraha” and “Aarakhshan”. A suspended BJP legislator, Avanish Kumar Singh also figured in the JD-U’s first list. Singh, who formally joined the JD-U, will contest the Lok Sabha election from East Champaran constituency.

  • HUMAN ERROR LED TO INS SINDHURATNA TRAGEDY

    HUMAN ERROR LED TO INS SINDHURATNA TRAGEDY

    NEW DELHI (TIP): Preliminary investigation into the INS Sindhuratna mishap revealed that it was a human error that could have led to the fire onboard the submarine in which two naval officers lost their lives. The fire and resultant smoke in the INS Sindhuratna started on the mess deck and not in the battery pits of the submarine, the report says.

    “Based on preliminary inspection of the third compartment, the likely seat of the fire has been indicated at the mess deck located one deck above the battery pit. Certain electrical cables were observed to be burnt or damaged in this area,” the defence ministry said. A preliminary inspection of the battery pit and the batteries in it revealed that there was neither any damage nor any sign to indicate that the fire could have originated there.

    As the batteries appear to be clear of any damage, they would not be put through normal checks and maintenance routines prior to operationalisation, the officials said. The Sindhughosh-class of submarines carries 240 cells, distributed equally in forward and aft battery pits. The batteries currently installed on INS Sindhuratna have completed around 113 cycles till date of their 200-cycle life. “The life of the batteries is valid by date.

    The batteries which were being used by INS Sindhuratna at the time of the incident were, therefore, operationally in-date,” naval officials said. Two officers – Lt. Commander Kapish Muwal of Najafgarh, Delhi, and Lt. Commander Manoranjan Kumar of Jharkhand – lost their lives while seven naval personnel were injured in the incident that led to the resignation of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral D.K. Joshi.

  • India moots Kargil-Skardu bus as CBM with Pak

    India moots Kargil-Skardu bus as CBM with Pak

    NEW DELHI (TIP): India has proposed to Pakistan a bus service between Kargil and Skardu and a “multiple entry booklet” to facilitate movement of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

    The two countries have also resumed talks for the purchase of 500 MW of electricity by Pakistan from India. The proposal for launching the bus service was made at a meeting of the India-Pakistan joint working group (JWG) on cross-LoC confidence building measures (CBMs) that met here earlier this week.

    The Indian delegation at the meeting was headed by Rudrendra Tandon, Joint Secretary (Pakistan) in the External Affairs Ministry, while the Pakistan side was led by Riffat Masood, Director General (South Asia) in the Foreign Ministry. Briefing reporters here today, MEA spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said New Delhi also mooted introduction of “multiple-entry booklet”.

    At present, passengers carry a form which is for single permit. They also discussed the recent unsavoury incident of a Pakistani driver bringing narcotics into India, which led to suspension of cross-LoC trade for some days. They observed there was a clear “failure” in detecting narcotics while the truck was entering India.

    It was felt that standard operating procedures for cross-LoC trade needed to be strengthened on both sides. The Pakistani side raised the issue of the driver who is still in the custody of the Indian authorities. New Delhi told Islamabad that the driver would face action under the Indian law.

  • BSP MOVES EC FOR JUMBO PAY-BACK

    BSP MOVES EC FOR JUMBO PAY-BACK

    LUCKNOW (TIP): The BSP will petition the Election Commission to direct the Samajwadi Party government in Uttar Pradesh to drop the word ‘Samajwadi’ from its various welfare programmes.

    Two years ago, a similar petition by SP had led to the EC ordering covers on statues and memorials to BSP leaders, including Mayawati, as these had elephant motifs — the election symbol of BSP. As a result, over 200 elephant statues were draped in pink polythene in Lucknow and Noida at a cost of Rs 1 crore as per the EC order.

    Pink was chosen as a neutral hue as it didn’t represent any party’s official colour. The UP government has tagged its ‘108’ medical emergency service ‘Samajwadi’ Ambulance Service. It’s being run in 40 districts across UP. In all, there are over 1,000 such ambulances across the state. Likewise, the ‘Samajwadi’ pension scheme is being used to woo dalits, OBCs and Muslims.

    According to a government order of February 6, the scheme aims to cater to 12 lakh SC/ST and 10 lakh minority (essentially Muslims) families across the state. BSP sources said the party would petition EC to get the word ‘Samajwadi’ covered. Confirming this, BSP state president, Ram Achal Rajbhar, said it gave undue electoral and political advantage to the SP in the state. “Now that the election code of conduct is out, the petition is being drafted to be sent to the EC,” Rajbhar told TOI.

    He said the word is being deliberately used by the SP government to influence voters in various districts. UP chief electoral officer Umesh Sinha said EC would certainly be looking at the issue. EC sources said the draping of statues was backed by a petition, based on which there was a specific directive from the Supreme Court. “We’ll go into why such a demand is being put forth and then commission will take a decision,” said a senior EC official. The official said the commission can’t sit as a mute spectator when the ruling party takes political advantage and campaign at the government’s expense