The Indian Panorama

Month: June 2014

  • Australia thrash Netherlands 6-1 to retain hockey World Cup

    Australia thrash Netherlands 6-1 to retain hockey World Cup

    India beat South Korea 3-0, finish ninth

    THE HAGUE (THE NETHERLANDS) (TIP): Australia retained the men’s hockey World Cup title by outplaying Olympic silver medallists The Netherlands 6-1 in the final at the Kyocera Stadium on June 15 . Chris Cirielo’s three penalty corner conversions was the feature of the contest that saw Australia retain the trophy they had won in New Delhi in 2010. The successive men’s World Cup title wins was a present the Australian team had promised to their coach Ric Charlesworth, who had won it as a player in 1986 and as a coach four years ago.

    Playing their fourth successive World Cup final, Australia made up for the disappointment of losing two successive summit showdown to Germany. Before Australia clinched their second successive World Cup, Germany were the only nation to have won two consecutive times. The Netherlands opened the scoring in the 14th minute through Jeroen Hartzberger, but the Australians came back strongly to slam six goals to make it the most onesided World Cup final ever. Australia equalised in the 19th minute through Cirello’s first penalty corner conversion.

    Australia gained ascendancy with a 24th minute field goal through Kieran Govers’s reverse hit from top of the circle to go into halftime with a 2-1 lead. Glenn Turner beat goalkeeper Jaap Stockmann with a flick from close three minutes into the second half before Cirielo scored with successive penalty corners in the 46th and 53rd minutes. Jamie Dwyer rounded off the scoring in the 64th minute when he picked up a through ball on the left flank and darted into the circle to shoot home.

    The result denied the Dutch a double title in front of their fans after their women’s team defeated Australia 2-0 in the final yesterday. The Netherlands were seeking to improve on their performance in the 2012 Olympic Games in London, where they won the women’s gold medal, but the men lost the final to Germany. Even in 1998, the only previous time that the International Hockey Federation sanctioned joint hosting of the men and women’s World Cups – in the Dutch city of Utrecht – hosts Netherlands came close to achieving the dream double. The Dutch men won the 1998 World Cup defeating Spain in the final, but the women lost the title clash to Australia.

  • Brent trading around $115, near nine-month high

    Brent trading around $115, near nine-month high

    SINGAPORE (TIP): Brent crude held near $115 a barrel on June 20, close to a nine-month high and headed for its second weekly gain on increased risks of supply disruptions from Iraq. Iraqi government forces battled Sunni militants for control of the country’s biggest refinery on Thursday.

    If the 300,000 barrels per day refinery stays closed, Baghdad will need to import more oil products to meet its own domestic consumption, further tightening oil markets. Fields south of Baghdad, where most of Iraq’s 3.3 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil is produced, as well as exports remain unaffected. But heavy fighting north of the capital and foreign oil firms beginning to pull out staff pose a risk to supplies from OPEC’s number two producer.

    “This raises the risk of production halts in the near future, so although there are no disruptions at the moment, we do see further upside to prices,” said Ken Hasegawa, a Tokyo-based commodity sales manager at Newedge Japan. Brent crude LCOc1 slipped 8 cents to $114.98 a barrel at 0333 GMT, after ending 80 cents higher at $115.06 a barrel, the highest settlement since Sept. 6, 2013. The contract was up 1.3 percent for the week, after rising 4.4 percent last week.

    The U.S. crude oil contract CLc1, which expires on Friday, increased 27 cents to $106.70 a barrel. The contract settled 46 cents higher in the previous session, but was on course for a third weekly decline in four. “Brent is at a high for the year, triggering some short covering and possibly adding further long positions,” said Hasegawa. “The contract may go to a previous high of around $117.30 hit last August.” President Barack Obama said he was sending up to 300 U.S. military advisers to Iraq. Speaking after a meeting with his national security team, Obama said he was prepared to take “targeted” military action later if deemed necessary, although insisted U.S. troops would not return to combat in Iraq.

  • Govt on overdrive to rescue Indians trapped in Iraq

    Govt on overdrive to rescue Indians trapped in Iraq

    NEW DELHI (TIP): The new government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, June 19 scrambled to secure the release of 40 Indians being held in war-torn Iraq but asserted it was doing its “very best” to ensure their safety in the strife-torn country. While the ministry of external affairs said that it had information on the location where the Indians are being held captive, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj — who met families of some of the abducted Indians – said the government would leave no stone unturned to free the Indian workers. The mass abductions have arguably presented the new government with the first big challenge since it assumed power last month. Most of the abducted Indians, working for a Turkish construction company, hail from Punjab though a few are from Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

    “I am personally mulling over all options. The government is making all kinds of efforts. We are not leaving any stone unturned,” Swaraj told reporters. “I am personally supervising this…I want to assure the families that the government and I will try our very best… make every effort,” she added. The government has already dispatched a former ambassador to Baghdad to coordinate rescue efforts in Iraq where large parts have been overran by Sunni insurgents. External affairs ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said during briefing, “We do have an understanding of the location (of the workers).

    Given that the matter is underway, at this stage, I will not be able to share details of their location and what Iraqi authorities have shared with us”. Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal and his Himachal Pradesh counterpart Virbhadra Singh appealed to the Centre to ensure the safe return of the abducted Indians. Badal has said he is willing to pay a ransom to gain the freedom of the workers from Punjab. Earlier in the day, Sushma Swaraj met a delegation of families of seven of the abducted Indians.

    “The 40 men are safe… When the situation normalises, we will try to get them released,” she told the delegation accompanied by Badal. Himachal chief minister Virbhadra Singh said that the government has so far learnt that at least eight persons hailing from different parts of the state are missing in Iraq. “We are concerned about the safety of the all Himachal employed in Iraq,” he added. Official sources said, at least 16 residents of Haryana are believed to be stranded in strife-torn Iraq.

    Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa also sought the Prime Minister’s personal intervention to secure safety of 46 Indian nurses, including six from the state, trapped in Iraq. In Jammu, the family-members of Rajesh Kumar, 34, informed that his phone is switched off for the last one week. “We are constantly trying but his phone is switched-off for one week. It has never happened before,” a sobbing Reema, his wife, said. Eight migrants from Gorakhpur and Deoria in Uttar Pradesh are feared stuck in the Iraq turmoil.

  • Rajat Gupta loses appeal of $13.9 million fine, sent to prison

    Rajat Gupta loses appeal of $13.9 million fine, sent to prison

    NEW YORK (TIP): Former Goldman Sachs Group Inc director Rajat Gupta on Tuesday, June 17, lost his challenge to a $13.9 million civil penalty and a permanent ban from acting as an officer for a public company, the same day he was scheduled to begin serving a two-year prison sentence. In a brief order, the 2nd US circuit court of appeals rejected Gupta’s claim that the penalty and ban were excessive. A federal jury convicted the 65-year-old in June 2012 of passing confidential information he learned from Goldman board meetings to Raj Rajaratnam, the former billionaire and founder of the Galleon Group hedge fund. Ironically, Gupta is being sent to a prison that has as its inmate Raj Rajaratnam, founder of the New York hedge fund Galleon Group, the man to whom he was convicted of giving insider information on a raft of companies including Goldman Sachs.

    The Sri Lanka born Rajaratnam, who is serving an 11-year sentence, is a diabetic and is at the FMC Devens’ medical unit because he has to undergo dialysis. Gupta himself will undergo a medical check-up soon after reporting at the prison before he is lodged in the satellite camp, which reportedly has some 130 inmates. Over the past few weeks, Gupta is reported to have spent time with his family, including going on short holidays with his four daughters, in anticipation of serving his sentence.

    However, prison guidelines will enable them to visit him on Fridays between 2:30 pm and 8:30 pm and on Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays between 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. One of IIT’s best known graduates, Gupta is said to be writing a book about his ordeal and also planning a visit to India as soon as he is released from prison, according to Anita Raghavan, author of “The Billionaire’s Apprentice: The Rise of the Indian-American Elite and the Fall of the Galleon Hedge Fund,” a book about the white collar case that rocked Wall Street and corporate America.

    “Gupta will have no trouble lining up consulting assignments from Indian companies. But his sterling calling card – offering Indian executives unparalleled access to American chief executives and politicians – will be badly tarnished,” Raghavan wrote in NYT’s Dealbook last week.

  • Thank you, Spain, and goodbye

    Thank you, Spain, and goodbye

    SAO PAULO (TIP): Nothing lasts forever – empires, dynasties, life itself. That’s what makes the passing of one of the greatest sides in the history of any sport so poignant – and so human, because time takes its toll on the best of us. There was a certain inexorable inevitability about the end of Spain’s reign. It’s not that we did not see it coming. It’s the brutal suddenness with which it happened that has left the world in such a daze.

    The 1-5 humiliation by the Netherlands wasn’t about just another defending champion stumbling and falling; it was as if a hammer and nail had been employed to serve eviction notice. No one expected Spain to return to its magical best in their next game, against Chile; that’s what fairy tales are for. But we had hoped for at least a determined fight-back, a few flashes of the old self.

    What we witnessed instead was a dejected and directionless team (barring Iniesta, who stood like the boy on the burning deck), a pale shadow of the team that had won two successive European championships and a World Cup in between – and along the way, had redefined football with their tiki-taka style. Long before the final whistle was blown, the obituaries had begun to flow. An era had ended.

    It was a lump-in-the-throat moment, and not just for Spain. Sports fans (and the media) tend to be fickle, swinging from one extreme to another – heaping praise one moment, and ridicule, the other. But when you see true greatness finally laid to rest, the overwhelming emotion is one of sadness. So when Spain’s captain and once-vaunted goalkeeper, Iker Casillas – who let in seven goals in two games after having conceded none in the 10 games before – said, “We are sorry”, one of the country’s leading newspapers graciously responded saying, “Don’t be, you have given us so much. It was lovely while it lasted.” We couldn’t have said it better. To Xavi, Iniesta and the team, we say, thank you for the music.

  • Modi’s Japan Visit Postponed

    Modi’s Japan Visit Postponed

    NEW DELHI (TIP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to Japan next month has been deferred till after the Budget session of Parliament ends in early August. The decision has been taken in view of the Budget Session which is expected to be a pathbreaking one, putting into action many ideas which PM Modi has been talking about since several months.The Cabinet meeting, chaired by PM Modi in New Delhi this evening, decided to recommend the convening of the Budget session in the first week of July, sources said.

    The Prime Minister was expected to visit Japan during early July, given the strong strategic, economic and cultural foundations of the bilateral relationship. “However, in view of the ensuing Budget session, it seems unlikely that he will be able to visit Japan before the same,” the sources said. Reports had suggested that PM Modi would be visiting Japan on July 3-4.

    The sources said the Prime Minister, however, remains keen to make Japan his first major bilateral visit and it is learnt that the visit to that country will take place any time after the Parliament session. This session of Parliament is very important for the Prime Minister as this will see the presentation of the first budget of the newly-formed government. The Budget is expected to be a pathbreaking one, putting into action many ideas of the Prime Minister, which he has been talking about since several months, the sources said.

  • New York State all set to allow medical marijuana

    New York State all set to allow medical marijuana

    ALBANY, NY (TIP): New York State will soon be the 23rd US State to allow medical marijuana. Governor Andrew Cuomo and state lawmakers announced a deal on June 19, that would allow limited access to medical marijuana in New York. The proposed medical cannabis program, one of the nation’s most restrictive, would permit the active ingredients of pot to be inhaled as a vapor or ingested, but prohibit the smoking of marijuana itself.

    Exactly how medical marijuana products will be formulated in New York will be left up to the state’s Health Department under the program, which the governor would have discretion to halt at any time, and which will expire after seven years, unless lawmaker reauthorize it. The state Senate had been expected to give final legislative approval to the deal in a vote originally set for late Thursday night.

    But Senate leaders agreed to Republican demands to delay it until Friday morning to give lawmakers more time for review. Democrats control the state Assembly, but Republicans share control of the Senate with a breakaway group of Democrats. “I always supported the concept of ‘If you can get the medical benefits of medical marijuana to a suffering patient, clearly you would want to do that,’” Cuomo, a Democrat, told a news conference in Albany, the state capital. “My trepidation has always been the risk.

    This bill virtually eliminates the risk.” Under the plan, the Health Department would license five private companies in the state to produce and distribute medical marijuana products through dispensaries. Patients aged at least 21, who suffer from any one of a list of specified ailments – epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Lou Gehrig’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, neuropathies, spinal chord injuries, cancer and HIV/AIDS – would be eligible to use cannabis as treatment. The measure further allows the Health Department to approve other “serious conditions” for use of the drug as needed.

    Patients will get a registration card allowing purchase of the drug from a licensed dispensary; only doctors involved in their direct care will be allowed to certify need for the drug. The bill makes it a felony for any doctor to falsely certify a patient’s eligibility, or for a patient to defraud the program with false certification. It makes it a misdemeanor for patients to traffic in the prescribed drug.

    The legislation has been the subject of heated last-minute negotiations as New York’s current lawmaking session drew to a close. Versions of the bill have been approved by the liberal state Assembly several times since the 1990s. In May, Minnesota became the 22nd of the 50 states, in addition to the District of Columbia, to allow some sort of access to medical marijuana, advocacy group the Marijuana Policy Project says.

  • Predictions for Libra

    Predictions for Libra

    There are many emotional moments at home. You spend quality time with loved ones and may take a relationship to the next level. By this I mean there may be marriage on the cards. However, I must make it clear that these are all mere generalizations and a more accurate reading will depend on the personal horoscope. Astrology never compels. So a reading like this depends on several factors. These are trends and can work in different ways depending on your free will and action. But results in this phase can be spectacular at the work place.

  • GOPIO’s 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention a historic success

    GOPIO’s 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention a historic success

    PORT OF SPAIN (TIP): The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International) concluded its 25th Anniversary (Jubilee) Convention 2014 in Port of Spain in Trinidad & Tobago, with a memorable and highly successful celebration from 27th May through 30th May, 2014 coinciding with the 169th anniversary of Indian Arrival Day commemoration in Trinidad & Tobago.

    The convention was a historic event in the Indian Diaspora attended by delegates from several countries where GOPIO is prominent and where persons of Indian origin reside in substantial numbers and even small numbers. Countries include: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Malaysia, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, India, South Africa, Netherlands and other countries of the European Union (EU), UK, Canada, USA, and the Caribbean region: Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Belize, St. Vincent, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Grenada and St Lucia.

    Among the many events of the convention, some of the notable highlights include: Welcome reception at the Diplomatic Centre residence of Hon. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago, GOPIO’s elections for new officers, all-day academic conference, special guests at cultural performances held at National Cultural of Indian Culture (NCIC), and unveiling of arrival monument marking the first arrivals of indentured Indian laborers in Trinidad.

    A significant highlight of GOPIO’s 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention was the special welcome reception of GOPIO delegates at the Diplomatic Centre residence of the Hon Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar on 28th May. The reception was hosted by Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration with Minister Dr Roger Samuel making the initial remarks, followed by GOPIO International president Ashook Ramsaran and presentation of gifts.


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    GOPIO Jubilee Recognition Recipients with GOPIO officials, Indian High Commissioner G. Gupta,Trinidad & Tobago’s Minister Dr. Vasant Bharath MP and Minister Ramona Ramdial MP.

    Hon Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar formally welcomed GOPIO’s delegates, recounted GOPIO’s special reception/dinner during the visit to the Kolkata Memorial on 12th January, 2012 and thanked GOPIO for holding its 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention in Trinidad & Tobago. In attendance were several ministers and members of parliament of the Government of Trinidad & Tobago as well as the Indian High Commissioner HE Gauri Gupta. The evening included a special celebratory treat of Caribbean and Indian music with delegates joining in dancing. On 28th May, a Business-to-Business seminar featuring prominent scholars and business leaders was held at the Radisson Hotel.


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    Some of the Legacy Generation Residents of Trinidad & Tobago with GOPIO officials, Indian High Commissioner HE Gauri Gupta, With Trinidad & Tobago’s Min. Dr. Suruj Rambachan, Min. Ramona Ramdial, Counselors Abdool & Seepersad, Couva Regional Chairman Henry Awong. Unveiling of Indian Arrival Monument at Waterloo-by-the-Sea

    It was sponsored by Trinidad & Tobago’s Ministry of Trade & Investment. Sessions include: Investment & Trade Opportunities in Trinidad & Tobago; Investment & Trade Opportunities in St Vincent & Grenadines; Investment & Trade Opportunities in Guyana; Success Stories of Doing Business in the Caribbean; Free Enterprise, Market Economy and Business Successes; The Growth of Education and Medical Services for Bi-Lateral Trade; Media as Marketing Tool in Emerging Economies The Academic Conference segment of the convention was a full 1-day event held on 29th May at the Radisson Hotel.

    There were several sessions designed round the convention theme of “Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow” The chief guest at the Inaugural Session was Indian High Commissioner HE Gauri Gupta and the keynote speaker Dr Mahin Gosine, Professor of Sociology and Anthropology at SUNY, New York, USA. Prof Kumar Mahabir, Assistant Professor at University of Trinidad and Tobago, concluded the session. Other sessions with prominent and suitably qualified speakers from several countries were: Global & Regional Diaspora Investments & Economic Opportunities; The Indian Diaspora: Issues, Challenges & Opportunities; Diaspora’s Youth, Children, Gender & Inter-Generational Issues; Multi- Cultural Diversity & Inter-Ethnic Cooperation in the Indian Diaspora; Education, Science & Technology as Significant Assets in the Indian Diaspora; Health, Wellness, Lifestyle & Nutritional Factors in the Indian Diaspora; GOPIO’s 25th Anniversary Resolutions; Wrap-up & Conclusion. Elections were held by GOPIO International Council for several positions in GOPIO at the international level.

    The following officials were elected by unanimous vote: President – Ashook Ramsaran; Executive Vice President – Sunny Kulathakal; Senior Vice President – Dr. Piyush Agrawal; International Coordinator North America – Dr. Renuka Misra; and International Coordinator Caribbean, Dr. Arnold Thomas. Chairman Inder Singh was elected for another term. The Jubilee Recognition Gala was another highlight of GOPIO’s 25th Anniversary (Jubilee) Convention 201, held on 29th May, 2014 in the Grand Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel in Port of Spain. In attendance was Indian High Commissioner HE Gauri Gupta, Trinidad & Tobago’s Minister of Trade & Investment, Dr. Vasant Bharath; and Min. Ramona Ramdial, Minister in the Ministry of Environment & Water Resources. The event was emceed by prominent radio and television host Zelisa Boodoosingh.

    GOPIO’s Jubilee Recognition for outstanding achievements in selected categories were awarded to several persons “who contributed to the betterment of people of the Indian Diaspora. The Jubilee Recognition recipients achieved significant and prominent levels of stature and recognition in their respective fields of endeavor and have served interests of people in their respective countries of domicile and others as well, in addition to generating pride and respect among the Indian Diaspora and others in country of birth or domicile”. Posthumous: Henri Sidambaron (Guadeloupe); Dr. Najma Sultana (USA); Baleshwar Agrawal (India); Lall Paladee (Trinidad & Tobago). Friend of GOPIO: HE Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent & Grenadines.

    Professional, Civic, Culture, Entrepreneurship, Media, Philanthropy: National Indian Cultural Centre (Trinidad & Tobago); John Barath (Trinidad & Tobago); Brenda Gopeesingh (Trinidad & Tobago); Dr. Hans Hanoomansingh (Trinidad & Tobago); Sattaur Gafoor (Guyana); Dr Yesu Persaud (Guyana); Chief Justice Carl Singh (Guyana); Dr. C. Baidjnath Misier (Netherlands); Dr. Lakshmi Persaud (United Kingdom); Ishwar Ramlutchman (South Africa); Nicole Vaitylingon (Guadeloupe); Dr. Vivian Rambihar (Canada); Dr. Parmatma Saran (USA); Dr. Sudhir Parikh (USA); TV Asia H R Shah (USA); India Abroad (USA); Kedar N. Gupta (India); Israel Khan (Trinidad & Tobago); Ashok Motwani (India). In addition to recognition of those who contributed to GOPIO’s formation in 1989 as well as all previous life members, GOPIO recognized the newest life members since 6th January, 2014 in attendance: Yamonee Barbaro (USA); Balkrishna Naipaul (Canada); Deo Gosine (Trinidad & Tobago); Sasenarine Sankar (Guyana); Claude Sheikboudhou (Guadeloupe); Elie Shitalou (Guadeloupe); Shaji SM Alex (India); Shaji Baby John (India). The National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) hosted GOPIO delegates at its major events held at its Diwali Nagar in Chaguanas.

    NCIC president Dr. Deokinanan Sharma and Mr Surujdeo Mangaroo graciously welcomed GOPIO delegates as special guests. Special events were: 27th May: Concert — famous Bhojpuri singer, Kalpana Patowary from Assam, India; 29th May – Indian Arrival Day commemoration with a special treat of music, songs, dances, recitals and authentic Caribbean and Indian foods. GOPIO 25th Anniversary Jubilee souvenir brochure is 112-page bound, elaborate keep sake publication distributed at no cost to all convention delegates and visitors, as well as mailed subsequently to worldwide officials, businesses, organizations.

    The brochure messages of congratulations and well wishes, articles, program details, convention and international team, facts about GOPIO, its formation and history, as well as an extensive photo gallery. The convention team organized around the GOPIO chapter in Trinidad & Tobago, working diligently with dedicated and focused efforts to plan, coordinate and hold a magnificent GOPIO milestone convention in a country distant from the other regular venues which GOPIO has used over the years for its major events. Convention Convener: Ena Maraj, president of GOPIO International chapter of Trinidad & Tobago; General Convener: Dr. Arnold Thomas, GOPIO International Coordinator Caribbean; several chapter members serving in various capacities. The convention was endorsed and supported by a wide cross section of public and private sectors as well as civic and cultural organizations, academicians and academic institutions, media and others.

    In addition, prominent persons of Indian origin and several Pravasi Samman Awardees also participated in the convention. HE Shri Gauri Gupta, Indian High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, provided unwavering support and participated as chief guest in several major events of the convention. The National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) provided meeting facilities during the planning stages. Special support by various ministries of the Government of Trinidad & Tobago, as well as National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC). Grand patrons: Deo Gosine (Labidco Port Services Ltd, Trinidad & Tobago); Dr. Chandrikaersad Baijnath Misier (Surichange NV, Netherlands). Indian Arrival Monument at Waterloo-by-the- Sea The Indian Arrival Monument at Waterloo-bythe- Sea was unveiled on 30th May 2014, the 169th anniversary of Indian Arrival Day in Trinidad & Tobago, another significant and historic marker of the journey of Indian migration to other lands for better livelihood.

    The monument is another commemorative milestone marker in honored tribute and well deserved recognition of the first arrivals of indentured Indian laborers in Trinidad & Tobago. This unveiling was attended by Trinidad & Tobago’s Ministers Dr. Suruj Rambachan MP, supporter Mininister Ramona Ramdial, Counselors Abdool and Seepersad, Couva Regional Chairman Henry Awong, among many others officials. GOPIO International President Ashook Ramsaran and Indian High Commissioner HE Gauri Gupta unveiled the monument in the presence of hundreds of people including several “legacy generation” persons, a few over 100 years old.

    This was followed by an authentic Indian lunch served Caribbean style. The inscription, patterned after the Kolkata Memorial in India and Indian Arrival Monument at Highbury in Guyana, read as follows: In honour of Indian indentured labourers whose arrival in Trinidad and Tobago began on 30th May 1845. In recognition of their pioneering spirit, sacrifices, endurance and determination to seek better livelihoods for themselves and their descendants.

    In gratitude for their invaluable contribution to the social, spiritual, cultural, economic and political development of Trinidad and Tobago”. Remarked GOPIO International Chairman Inder Singh, “this is the best GOPIO convention since its formation in 1989”. GOPIO International President Ashook Ramsaran added that, “this silver jubilee convention is unparalleled in historical significance, with the special welcome, warmth and hospitality of the people of Trinidad & Tobago”. For more information, please contact GOPIO International at +1-718-969-8206, Email: ramsaran@aol.com. (Based on a press release).

  • IT’S SAMBA TIME! Football World Cup kicks-off

    IT’S SAMBA TIME! Football World Cup kicks-off

    SAO PAULO (TIP): The 2014 Fifa World Cup got under way with a colourful opening ceremony before hosts Brazil kicked off against Croatia. A cast of 660 dancers paid tribute to the country’s nature, people and football with a show around a “living” ball on the Arena de Sao Paulo pitch. The final act saw a performance of official World Cup song “We Are One” by Jennifer Lopez and rapper Pitbull.

  • Juned Qazi is appointed President of INOC(I), USA

    Juned Qazi is appointed President of INOC(I), USA

    NEW YORK (TIP): Dr. Karan Singh, Chairman, Foreign Affairs Committee of All India Congress Party has communicated his acquiescence on the appointment of Juned Qazi as the new INOC(I) President effective June, 11, 2014, said George Abraham, Chairman of INOC (I), in a written statement sent to The Indian Panorama. Juned has been associated with the Congress Party for a long time.

    He was one of the aspirants for Aligarh Parliamentary seat in the just concluded elections. In USA, he is the founder President of Madhya Pradesh Chapter of INOC (I). George Abraham Congratulated Qazi on his appointment and offered his full support and wished him every success in the exercise of his mandate. Juned Qazi said he was grateful to Dr. Karan Singh for reposing his confidence in him and pledged to strengthen the organization and work in accordance with the established rules and procedures.

  • Iraqi Army retakes Tikrit, even as militants vow to march on Baghdad

    Iraqi Army retakes Tikrit, even as militants vow to march on Baghdad

    BAGHDAD (TIP): The Iraqi army has retaken full control of the central city of Tikrit, a day after militant jihadists seized it, state-run Iraqiya TV reported. Fighters from the militant group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant took Saddam Hussein’s hometown of Tikrit on Wednesday as soldiers and security forces abandoned their posts and yielded ground once controlled by U.S. troops. That seizure followed the capture of much of Mosul, Iraq’s second-largest city, the previous day. The group and its allies among local tribesmen also hold the city of Fallujah and other pockets of the Sunni-dominate Anbar province to the west of Baghdad.

    Emergency’ decision postponed
    Meanwhile, the Iraqi Parliament’s session to consider a request to impose a state of emergency is postponed due to lack of quorum, Iraqi media reports.

    Sunni militant group vows to march on Baghdad
    The al-Qaeda-inspired group that led the charge in capturing two key Sunni-dominated cities in Iraq this week vowed on Thursday to march on to Baghdad, raising fears about the Shia-led government’s ability to slow the assault following the insurgents’ lightning gains. The Iraqi military also abandoned some posts in the ethnically mixed flashpoint city of Kirkuk that are now being held by the Kurdish security forces known as peshmerga, Brig. Halogard Hikmat, a senior peshmerga official told the Associated Press. “We decided to move on and control the air base and some positions near it because we do not want these places with the weapons inside them to fall into the hands of the insurgents,” said Hikmat.

    Iraqi government officials could not be reached to confirm the account. Also on June 12, militants attacked an Iraqi security checkpoint in the town of Tarmiyah, 50 km north of Baghdad, killing five troops and wounding nine, said officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to talk to the media. A spokesman for the Islamic State said the group has old scores to settle with Prime Minister Nouri al—Maliki’s government in Baghdad.

    The Iraqi leader, a Shiite, is trying to hold onto power after indecisive elections in April. Al-Maliki has asked parliament to declare a state of emergency that would give him the “necessary powers” to run the country something legal experts said could include powers to impose curfews, restrict public movements and censor the media. Lawmakers are expected to consider that request later today. The Islamic State’s spokesman, Abu Mohammed al-Adnani, also threatened that the group’s fighters will take the southern Iraqi Shiite cities of Karbala and Najaf, which hold two of the holiest shrines for Shiite Muslims.

    “We will march toward Baghdad because there we have an account to settle,” he urged followers in an audio recording posted on militant websites commonly used by the group. The statement could not be independently verified. Al-Adnani also said that one of his group’s top military commanders, Adnan Ismail Najm, better known as Abu Abdul-Rahman al-Bilawi al- Anbari, was killed in the recent battles in Iraq. Al-Adnani said Najm worked closely with the former leader of al-Qaida in Iraq, Jordanianborn Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, who was killed by U.S. troops in 2006.

    Najm was later detained and spent years in prison before he was set free two years ago and prepared and commanded the operations that led to the latest incursions by the group in northern and central Iraq. The militants are trying to expand into other areas too. Sinjar is 400 km northwest of Baghdad in Ninevah province, outside of the semiautonomous Kurdish area, but is under Kurdish control. Iran’s foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, offered his country’s support to Iraq in its “fight against terrorism” during a phone call with his Iraqi counterpart, Iranian state TV reported. Shiite powerhouse Iran, which has built close ties with Iraq’s post-war government, a day earlier said it was halting flights to Baghdad because of security concerns and has intensified security measures along its borders.

    Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday blasted the Islamic State as “barbaric” and said that his country’s highest security body will hold an immediate meeting to review the developments in neighbouring Iraq. The Islamic State aims to create an Islamic emirate spanning both sides of the Iraq-Syria border. It has been able to push deep into parts of the Iraqi Sunni heartland once controlled by U.S. forces because police and military forces melted away after relatively brief clashes. The White House said Wednesday that the United States was “deeply concerned” about the Islamic State’s continued aggression.

    There were no reliable estimates of casualties or the number of insurgents involved, though several hundred gunmen were involved in the Tikrit fight, said Mizhar Fleih, the deputy head of the municipal council of nearby Samarra. An even larger number of militants likely would have been needed to secure Mosul, a much bigger city. Baghdad does not appear to be in imminent danger from a similar assault, although Sunni insurgents have stepped up car bombings and suicide attacks in the capital in recent months.

    So far, Islamic State fighters have stuck to the Sunni heartland and former Sunni insurgent strongholds where people are already alienated by the Shiite—led government over allegations of discrimination and mistreatment. The militants also would likely meet far stronger resistance, not only from government forces but by Shiite militias if they tried to advance on the capital. Mosul, the capital of Ninevah province, and the neighbouring Sunni-dominated province of Anbar share a long and porous border with Syria, where the Islamic State is also active. Mosul’s fall was a heavy defeat for al-Maliki.

    His Shiite-dominated political bloc came first in April 30 parliamentary elections the first since the U.S. military withdrawal in 2011 but failed to gain a majority, forcing him to try to build a governing coalition. In addition to being Saddam’s hometown, Tikrit was a power base of his once—powerful Baath Party. The former dictator was captured by U.S. forces while hiding in a hole in the area and he is buried south of town in a tomb draped with the Saddam—era Iraqi flag.

  • Rajnath Singh asks officials to work on safe return of Kashmiri Pandits

    Rajnath Singh asks officials to work on safe return of Kashmiri Pandits

    Home Minister Rajnath Singh has asked officials of the Jammu & Kashmir division of the home ministry to
    strengthen measures to curb infiltration from across the Indo-Pakistan border and come up with steps to engage
    the Kashmiri pandits and plan their return to the Valley.

    NEW DELHI (TIP): Close on the heels of President Pranab Mukherjee outlining the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley as a priority of the NDA government, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh instructed his ministry officials to take Kashmiri migrants into confidence and work on a roadmap for their safe return to the Valley. Soon after taking a detailed briefing from officials of the Jammu & Kashmir division of the Home Ministry, Singh set two specific goals for them: strengthen measures to curb infiltration from across the Indo-Pakistan border and come up with steps to engage the Kashmiri pandits and plan their return to the Valley.

    “Had a meeting with J&K affairs department in MHA…asked them to further strengthen the measures taken to curb infiltration from across the border,” Singh tweeted on Thursday, June 12 evening. “Also instructed the officials to take Kashmiri migrants into confidence and work on steps to be taken for their safe return to the Valley,” he said in another tweet. A senior official of the Union Home Ministry said the J&K division would soon firm up a plan to set the stage for return of Kashmiri pandits, while ensuring that this could be done without any threat to their security.

    The official told media that the representatives of Kashmiri pandits would be consulted while drawing up the proposal. Enhanced financial assistance, security to life and property, government jobs and other employment opportunities and subsidized ration could be a part of the package that may be announced as incentive for the return of Pandits, said the official.

    Among the issues covered during Rajnath’s meeting with officials of the Home Ministry’s J&K division on Thursday were the security situation, infiltration from across the border, strengthening of fence along the border and rehabilitation of surrendered militants. Return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants who have been displaced from the Valley, developmental projects and special employment initiatives for the youth of J&K, such as ‘Udaan’, were also discussed.

  • EARTH, MOON OLDER THAN PREVIOUS ESTIMATES

    EARTH, MOON OLDER THAN PREVIOUS ESTIMATES

    LONDON (TIP): Debunking earlier age estimates for both the earth and moon, geochemists have discovered that the final stage of the formation of the two is around 60 million years older than was previously thought. A new study shows that the timing of the giant impact between the earth’s ancestor and a planet-sized body occurred around 40 million years after the start of solar system formation.

    “It is not possible to give an exact date for the formation of the earth. What this work does is to show that the earth is older than we thought, by around 60 million years,” said lead researcher Guillaume Avice from University of Lorraine in Nancy, France. Previously, the time of formation of the earth’s atmosphere was estimated at around 100 million years after the solar system formation.

    To reach this conclusion, geochemists discovered an isotopic signal which indicates that previous age estimates for both the earth and moon are underestimates. To put a date on early earth events, one of the standard methods is measuring the changes in the proportions of different gases (isotopes) which survive from the early earth. Avice and colleague Bernard Marty analysed xenon gas found in South African and Australian quartz, which had been dated to 3.4 and 2.7 billion years respectively.

    The gas sealed in this quartz is preserved as in a “time capsule”. Recalibrating dating techniques using the ancient gas allowed them to refine the estimate of when the earth began to form. This allows them to calculate that the moonforming impact is around 60 million years older than what was thought. “The xenon gas signals allow us to calculate when the atmosphere was being formed, which was probably at the time the earth collided with a planet-sized body, leading to the formation of moon,” Avice concluded.

  • RADIATION FROM MOBILE PHONES CAUSING ‘INFERTILITY’ AMONG MEN: STUDY

    RADIATION FROM MOBILE PHONES CAUSING ‘INFERTILITY’ AMONG MEN: STUDY

    LONDON (TIP): Radiation emitting from mobile phones kept in trouser pockets has now been confirmed to be causing male infertility. British scientists announced on Tuesday that men who keep a mobile phone in their trouser pocket could be inadvertently damaging their chances of becoming a father, thanks to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RFEMR) emitted by the devices. Most of the global adult population own mobile phones, and around 14% of couples in high and middle income countries have difficulty conceiving.

    Dr Fiona Mathews at the University of Exeter conducted a systematic review of the findings from 10 studies, including 1,492 samples, with the aim of clarifying the potential role of this environmental exposure. Participants in the studies were from fertility clinics and research centres, and sperm quality was measured in three different ways: motility (the ability of sperm to move properly towards an egg), viability (the proportion of sperm that were alive) and concentration (the number of sperm per unit of semen).

    In control groups, 50-85% of sperm have normal movement. The researchers found this proportion fell by an average of 8 percentage points when there was exposure to mobile phones. Similar effects were seen for sperm viability. The effects on sperm concentration were less clear. Dr Mathews said, “Given the enormous scale of mobile phone use around the world, the potential role of this environmental exposure needs to be clarified.

    This study strongly suggests that being exposed to radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation from carrying mobiles in trouser pockets negatively affects sperm quality. This could be particularly important for men already on the borderline of infertility, and further research is required to determine the full clinical implications for the general population.” The results were consistent across in vitro studies conducted under controlled conditions and observational in vivo studies conducted on men in the general population.

    India’s Inter Ministerial Group recently made some salient recommendations about mobile handsets. The group proposed revising the limit of 2 watts per kilogram averaged over 10 grams tissue to 1.6 watts per kilogram averaged over 1 gram tissue. It also called for mandatory declaration of radiation level on each mobile handset. As far as mobile towers are concerned they recommended radiation norms which are ten times as strict as the existing ones- from f/200 watts per square meter to f/2000 watts per square meter.

    The group said mobile towers should not be installed near high density residential areas, schools, playgrounds and hospitals. “The localized specific absorption rate (SAR) value as per the Indian guidelines is 2 watt per kg, averaged over a six minute period and using a 10 gram average mass.With higher SAR — a measure of the amount of radiofrequency energy absorbed by the body while using a phone of mobile handsets — the public could potentially receive much higher radiofrequency exposure.We have recommended that SAR levels to be lowered to 1.6 watt/kg, as prescribed by the Federal Communication Commission of US,” Indian experts said.

    Girish Kumar, professor in department of electrical engineering at IIT Bombay, whose research on hazards of cellphone use was taken as a reference for the committee decision, said, “There is a 40% increase in the risk of brain cancer among teenagers using cell phones for long periods. The younger the child, the deeper is the penetration of electromagnetic radiation as children’s skulls are thinner”. Another Jawaharlal Nehru University study found that the exposure to radiation from mobile towers and cell phones could have an adverse impact on male fertility and pose health hazards by depleting the defence mechanism of cells.

  • AN INJECTION TO PERMANENTLY REDUCE CHOLESTEROL IN HUMANS SOON

    AN INJECTION TO PERMANENTLY REDUCE CHOLESTEROL IN HUMANS SOON

    LONDON (TIP): A single injection may soon permanently lower cholesterol levels in humans reducing their risk of heart attack by 90%. Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) scientists collaborating with researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a “genome-editing” approach for permanently reducing cholesterol levels in mice through a single injection. The work focused on altering the function of a liver gene called PCSK9.

    In 2003, a group of researchers in France studying families with very high cholesterol levels and very early heart attacks discovered that PCSK9 was a cholesterol regulator because they found that mutations in this gene seemed to be responsible for the high cholesterol levels and the heart attacks. A research group in Texas discovered that about 3% of the population has mutations in PCSK9 that have the opposite effect.

    Those with the mutations have low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad) cholesterol levels about 15 to 28% lower than the average level. And the people with that good defect have heart attack risks that range from about 47 to 88% below average. The project to turn normal PCSK9 genes into those with the good defect started last year after a technology called CRISPR/Cas9, was discovered. “Cas9 is a protein that will create a break in DNA and the CRISPR is an RNA component that will bind to a matching sequence.

    It directs the Cas9 to that sequence in the DNA in which we are interested. This creates a break where you want it. The cell can then repair itself though often with errors which is useful if you want to disrupt a gene,” said Kiran Musunuru of HSCI. “Our reasoning was that nature has already done the experiment; you have people who have won the genetic lottery,” said Musunuru.

    “They are protected from heart attack, and there are no known adverse consequences. So that led us to reason that if we could find a way to replicate this, we could significantly protect people from heart attack,” the scientist added.

  • Now, a wristwatch to monitor glucose, pulse rate & hydration levels

    Now, a wristwatch to monitor glucose, pulse rate & hydration levels

    LONDON (TIP): A new biometric wristwatch is being developed that can monitor your blood glucose, dehydration and pulse rate. In a pair of papers published in The Optical Society, researchers from the Netherlands and Israel described two new wearable devices that use changing patterns of scattered light to monitor biometrics: one tracks glucose concentration and dehydration levels while the other monitors pulse.

    Monitoring a patient’s vital signs and other physiological parameters is a standard part of medical care but increasingly health and fitness-minded individuals are looking for ways to easily keep their own tabs on these measurements. The glucose sensor is the first wearable device that can measure glucose concentration directly but noninvasively, the authors said.

    And while other wearable devices have been made to monitor pulse, the authors claim their new design would be less sensitive to errors when the wearer is in motion. The devices use the so-called speckle effect, the grainy interference patterns that are produced on images when laser light reflects from an uneven surface or scatters from an opaque material. “The speckle pattern changes with changes in the flow,” said biomedical engineer Mahsa Nemati from the Delft University of Technology.

  • OBAMA CONSIDERS OPTIONS TO HELP IRAQ

    OBAMA CONSIDERS OPTIONS TO HELP IRAQ

    Options include drones and air strikes but not the reinsertion of U.S. ground troops into Iraq
    WASHINGTON (TIP): President Obama said Thursday, June 12, that Iraq needs “more help” as it battles insurgents threatening to attack Baghdad, and he is considering various options. “I don’t rule out anything because we do have a stake in making sure that these jihadists are not getting a permanent foothold in either Iraq or Syria for that matter,” Obama said in the Oval Office. Options include drones and air strikes but not the reinsertion of U.S. ground troops into Iraq.

    Obama said, “There will be some shortterm immediate things that need to be done militarily, and our national security team is looking into all the options.” He didn’t provide details. A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity about internal deliberations, said Obama is not ruling out the use of drones and air strikes, but the United States is not considering “boots on the ground” in Iraq. White House spokesman Jay Carney said, “We are not contemplating ground troops” in Iraq.

    After a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Obama said, “In the short term, we have to deal with what is clearly an emergency situation in Iraq.” Obama said his team has consulted with Iraq’s government, and the United States has provided help in past months, including military equipment and intelligence. “What we’ve seen over the last couple of days indicates the degree to which Iraq is going to need more help,” Obama said. “It’s going to need more help from us, and it’s going to need more help from the international community.”

    An al-Qaeda-inspired Islamic insurgent group has taken major cities in Iraq and vowed to march on the capital, Baghdad. Obama said, “This is an area that we’ve been watching with a lot of concern, not just over the last couple of days but over the last several months.” Congressional Republicans criticized the Obama administration as al-Qaedainspired insurgents marched across Iraq.

    “They’re 100 miles from Baghdad,” said House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio. “And what’s the president doing? Taking a nap.” The White House said that Vice President Biden spoke by phone Thursday with Iraq Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, pledging “solidarity” in its fight against the insurgent group, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Biden said the U.S. is prepared to “intensify and accelerate security support and cooperation with Iraq,” said a White House statement, but also told Maliki that the different factions in Iraq must “reach a lasting political accommodation and to be united in order to defeat their common enemy.”

  • Seventh Season of the MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee Announced

    Seventh Season of the MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee Announced

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Touchdown Media Inc., a leading Multicultural advertising firm announced, June 11, the launch of the seventh season of the MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee. MetLife, a leading global provider of insurance, annuities and employee benefit programs, returns as the title sponsor of the contest. The event is open to children of South Asian descent up to 14 years of age. It will give South Asian children a chance to test their spelling skills in their core peer group. Interested spellers need their parent or guardian to register them online at www.southasianspellingbee.com. Organized by Touchdown Media Inc., the 2014 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee will be conducted in 12 locations across the United States starting on June 14. Regional level events will be held in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Seattle, Atlanta, Orlando, Washington DC Metro, New Jersey, New York and Boston.

    All events will be free to attend and open to the public. “This year is special to us not only because it is our 7th year, but also because 2 of our alumni were named Co- Champions at the Scripps international, sealing our community’s dominance in this craft. We are happy and excited to embark on yet another quest to seek the best speller from our community. The Bee has become a critical platform for the youth and we aspire to continue this effort year after year,” said Rahul Walia, CEO of Touchdown Media Inc. and founder of the South Asian Spelling Bee. Each competition will begin with a written test of 25 words.

    The participants must spell 15 or more words correctly to advance to the afternoon oral round, which will be conducted by experienced pronouncers and judges. The top three in the oral round will receive prize money. The top two spellers of each regional competition will advance to the finals to be held in New Jersey in August. Like last year, MetLife has funded the $10,000 champion’s scholarship that will be awarded to the winner at the finals. “MetLife is pleased to serve once again as the title sponsor of the South Asian Spelling Bee competition,” said Laurel Daring, assistant vice president, Diverse Markets, MetLife.

    “This event allows youth from across the country to test their spelling skills in a national forum that can provide a tremendous boost toward fulfilling a student’s educational aspirations. By challenging themselves in this manner, all of the participating students gain a better understanding of how much they can achieve through hard work and dedication.” Along with MetLife, food brand Kawan and education company C2Education have also come on board as sponsors for this event. As always, SONY Entertainment Television Asia is the exclusive broadcast partner for the MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee and will be airing the series across 120 countries.

    “Kawan is proud to support this platform that helps in the overall growth of the child. We look forward to seeing this year’s talent and are happy to be part of the process to find the best speller from the South Asian community,” said Tim Tan, Director – International Business, Kawan Food, makers of the world’s most popular Roti Paratha Brand in the world – Kawan Paratha. “C2 Education is very honored to be associated with the MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee for the third consecutive year.

    Seeing the children’s enthusiasm and dedication to succeed is truly inspiring”, said Steve Helgeson, Director of School and Community Partnerships, C2Education. “Once again, we are proud to be associated with the Bee and are looking forward to showcasing the journey in the quest for the best speller. We look forward to yet another successful year,” said Jaideep Janakiram, Head of North America, Sony Entertainment Television-Asia.

  • US depends on India, Pakistan for stability after US pullout from Afghanistan

    US depends on India, Pakistan for stability after US pullout from Afghanistan

    WASHINGTON (TIP): As President Barack Obama announced plans for Afghanistan after ending US combat mission by year end, the US hoped India, Pakistan and Afghanistan would help provide greater stability and security in the region. India’s new Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif had set a “constructive tone from the very beginning,” a senior administration official told reporters Tuesday in a background briefing on Obama’s plans.

    Under Obama’s plan to “bring America’s longest war to its responsible end,” the US which currently has 32,000 troops in Afghanistan will keep 9,800 troops there after December 2014. The US will then gradually withdraw troops keeping only a small residual force by the end of 2016 — just three weeks before his presidency ends. Obama said Americans have learned it was harder to end a war than to start one. “We have to recognize Afghanistan will not be a perfect place, and it is not America’s responsibility to make it one.”

    The role of US troops in Afghanistan after this year will be aimed at “disrupting threats caused by Al Qaeda, supporting Afghan security forces and giving the Afghan people the opportunity to succeed as they stand on their own,” he said. However, the US plan depends on the Afghans signing a bilateral security agreement. While current Afghan President Hamid Karzai has refused to sign such an agreement, both the candidates in next month’s runoff presidential election have indicated a willingness to do so.

    “With respect to India, I think we’ve seen a constructive tone set from the very beginning by Prime Minister Modi and by Prime Minister Sharif, who was one of the first leaders to speak to” Modi after his election victory, the US official noted. Noting that Sharif had traveled to India for Modi’s swearing in and the two had met Tuesday, he said: “We always encourage India and Pakistan to pursue dialogue that can reduce tension.” “We believe that that is in the interest of the entire region.

    And so we’ll continue to encourage that.” “So with that new leadership in India, the new leadership in Pakistan, and the new president coming to office in Afghanistan this year, I think we have an opportunity to have that discussion about how all the countries in the region can provide for a greater stability and security,” the official said. “And that’s certainly something we’re going to pursue,” he said. People have been wondering how “the region is going to respond in kind as the international community draws down in Afghanistan,” the official said as “regional dynamics, particularly with regards to their proxies, matters considerably to future stability in Afghanistan.”

    “But in recent and operational terms, the attack against the Indian consulate in Herat raised that very question,” he said. However, the US was “hopeful that the initial indication between both Islamabad and New Delhi is a positive one” he said taking note of Sharif’s attendance at the swearing in. Sharif’s “first such visit in many years” was “reminiscent of the last time there was significant progress” between the two countries when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power during Sharif’s previous term as Prime Minister in the late ’90s, the official said. “They made progress along lines that looked very much like what we have now,” he said. “So we’re cautiously hopeful that that could be a positive indicator, but we’re also mindful that this will be very important to the dynamic going forward,” the official said.

  • ‘2 N-bombs nearly wiped out North Carolina in 1961’

    ‘2 N-bombs nearly wiped out North Carolina in 1961’

    WASHINGTON (TIP): In 1961, the US escaped a disaster worse than the devastation wrought in the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki when a B-52 air force bomber broke in half mid-air and two nuclear bombs hit the ground in North Carolina, declassified documents show. On January 24, 1961, a US bomber broke in half while flying over North Carolina. From the belly of the B-52 fell two bombs — two nuclear bombs that hit the ground near the city of Goldsboro. But thanks to a series of fortunate missteps, the US averted a major disaster.

    Declassified documents that the National Security Archive released this week offered new details about the incident, the CNN reported. The blaring headline read: “Multi- Megaton Bomb Was Virtually ‘Armed’ When It Crashed to Earth.” Or, as secretary of defence Robert McNamara put it in back then, “By the slightest margin of chance, literally the failure of two wires to cross, a nuclear explosion was averted.” The MK39 bombs weighed 10,000 pounds and their explosive yield was 3.8 megatons compared to the bombs US dropped in Hiroshima and Nagasaki which were 0.01 and 0.02 megatons respectively.

  • Bergdahl scheduled to arrive in Texas today

    Bergdahl scheduled to arrive in Texas today

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, who has been recovering in Germany after five years as a Taliban captive, is returning to the United States on June 13, but he will not receive the promotion that would have been automatic had he still been held prisoner. Rear Adm. John Kirby, the Pentagon press secretary, said on Thursday that Bergdahl had left Germany on board a US military aircraft and was expected to arrive at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, early Friday morning.

    A US official, meanwhile, said the promotion list, which would have boosted Bergdahl to staff sergeant, was expected to be released this week and he would not be on it. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told The Associated Press last week that the promotion would no longer be automatic because Bergdahl is now free and any promotion would be based on routine duty requirements, such as proper levels of training and education as well as job performance.

    The US official said medical personnel had determined that Bergdahl was ready to move on to the third phase of his reintegration process, which would happen at Brooke. The official was not authorized to provide details about Bergdahl’s promotion by name and spoke Thursday on condition of anonymity. Officials had previously said the intention was for Bergdahl to be reunited with his family at Brooke and to spend an undetermined period there in further recuperation.

    Officials have kept a lid on details of Bergdahl’s condition and his travel plans out of concern that he not be rushed back into the public spotlight after a lengthy period in captivity and amid a public uproar over the circumstances of his capture and release. Officials also said on June 12 that the Army has not yet formally begun a new review into the circumstances of Bergdahl’s capture and whether he walked away without leave or was deserting the Army when he was found and taken by insurgents.

  • GUJARATI SAMAJ of New York to hold CULTURAL FESTIVAL of Gujarat on August 8, 9, 10

    GUJARATI SAMAJ of New York to hold CULTURAL FESTIVAL of Gujarat on August 8, 9, 10

    NEW YORK (TIP): Gujarati Samaj of New York announced a CULTURAL FESTIVAL OF GUJARAT to mark the celebration of its 40th Anniversary. The festival will be held on August 8,9 & 10, 2014. Consul General Dyaneshwar Mulay inaugurated the kick off with traditional lighting of the lamp. Chamunda Swami chanted Shlokas from Hindu scripture to seek divine blessings for the success of the undertaking. Ambassador Mulay expressed the need to market India to the mainstream. He asked every member to invite friends from mainstream to events and educate them about richness of India and Indian culture. He wondered why India still does not have a permanent seat at the Security Council.

    He spoke of the Consulate’s initiative in hosting a series of events on India’s rich culture, lofty thought and diversity. He shared his conviction that India and USA are best partners to build the global economy. And every NRI should help make that happen. A spokesman for the Samaj said that Gujarati Samaj of New York was established in 1974, and has now a membership of more than 2400 families representing some of the most successful and affluent Gujarati Americans of Tri-state area. On the occasion of 40th Anniversary, Gujarati Samaj of New York is organizing a mega event for 3 days called “CULTURAL FESTIVAL OF GUJARAT” (CFG) showcasing the rich history, culture and heritage of State of Gujarat in India, the birth state of Global icon Mahatma Gandhi, Iron man Sardar Patel, religious Gurus including Pramukh Swami, business leaders Ratan Tata and Dhirubhai Ambani and the recently elected Prime Minister of India, Narendrabhai Modi among others. CULTURAL FESTIVAL OF GUJARAT (CFG) is to be held over three days in August on 8th, 9th and 10th in St. Anthony’s Conference Center in Melville, New York.

    The 3-day mega event will include programs such as Garbo from Gujarati Samaj, Bhavai by Shakuntal Arts, Kamlesh Patel Dance, Dayro by Sairam Dave & Group, Women Seminar by Kajal Oza, Group Bhajans by Hari Bharwad, comedy by Jagdish Trivedi, concert by Mauli Dave, Fashion Show by Sringar group, Archan Trivedi for drama, Bhanubhai Vora of Swarkinnary group from Bombay, Sanjay Oza and Party, Sahitya lecture, Auction of Arts and Award ceremony. R. D. Patel, Chairman of Board of Trustees said, “We are excited to present this mega event to the community to thank our predecessors who brought the Samaj reach this far. This institution has been the cornerstone for our community to continue to share our culture with generations over last 40 years and I promise to continue to build with help from each Trustee of the Board in coming years”.

    Harshad Patel, President of Gujarati Samaj of New York said, “I am fortunate to be the President in this historic year, and look forward to host an event of international standards with help from Dilip Chauhan, Minesh Patel and Bhupendra Patel, along with day to day contribution from my able committee members, Jatin Upadhyay, Chandrakant patel, Chimanbhai Patel, Anil Patel, Kiritbhai Patel and Divyesh Tripathi, to make this dream come true. I urge each of the community person of Indian origin to join us, and business community to help with support to make it a grand success”. Bharti Desai, Program manager and host of Gujarati Samaj of New York and launch event, said, “It has been a pleasant experience for me to host and organize multiple events at the Samaj in last few decades. It has helped me creatively to contribute in making each program a success. After having worked with several Presidents at the Samaj, now I look forward to handling this mega event and take the events presented by the Samaj to the next level in organizational excellence”. Samaj showcased “Garavi Gujarat” film on Gujarat’s riches and unfolded the video on CFG. The web site was inaugurated by Consul General. Attendees will enjoy traditional Gujarati food, enjoy very famous Gujarati movies like Jigaraneami, Akhand Saubhagyavati and Mahendi Rang Lagyo. Various booths will decorate the exhibition at the event with book stalls and handicrafts.

    Top Government officials, public persons, Business and community leaders, young professionals, achievers and VVIPs are expected to attend the mega event over 3-days to be attended by 5,000 on a day. Dr. Navin Mehta, Trustee and major supporter of Samaj thanked the attendees and community in helping Samaj in last 39 years. He was proud to see Narendrabhai Modi, a Gujarati lead the nation as PM. He saw a growing and prosperous India in the making. He fondly related his own association with Samaj since he was doing his residency in New York.

    Gujarati Samaj of New York which was established as non-profit organization by about one hundred first generation Gujarati families, today, has a life membership of over 2400. Over last 39 years the Samaj has conducted several activities to promote Gujarati and Indian religious and culture in New York area to community persons from all generations. In 1985, the Samaj acquired its own 12,000 sqft center located in Fresh Meadows, Queens, New York. The Center can accommodate up to 700 people.

    The center is used mainly for Samaj activities. In 2009-2010, the Center was refurbished. Several thousand members of the Tri-state area are now using the Center for family events. In addition several other ethnic organizations are taking benefit of the central location to conduct their events at the center. Today, Gujarati Samaj of New Yorkis one of the oldest and vibrant organization in the tri-state area serving the Gujarati and other communities with educational, religious, and social activities such as FOGANA, Health Awareness Expo, Medical and Yoga Camp, Holi Celebration, Navaratri Celebration, Diwali Celebration, Gujarati Dayro and Drama, Appreciation Dinner, Cultural Tours, Gujarat Day Celebration, Independence Day Celebration, Republican Day Celebration among others. Samaj of New York is planning to have blood bank and Matrimony section for community benefit. Samaj held 10th anniversary at Madison square Garden and 20th Anniversary at Jacob Javits Center.

    Gujarati Samaj of New York announced a raffle draw for a BMW car for the attendees. Earlier, before the formal program began, a minute’s silence was observed to pay homage to BJP leader Gopinath Munde who lost his life in an accident.

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  • What if Hillary Clinton doesn’t run?

    What if Hillary Clinton doesn’t run?

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Hillary Clinton’s book launch looks undeniably like the prelude to a presidential campaign, but despite growing buzz, Democrats are scraping together Plans B, C and D in case she doesn’t run. The former secretary of state has criss-crossed the country on a speaking tour. Political action committees have raised millions for her. And she has now written a risk-free memoir that does little to jostle the narrative that she circled the globe wielding a brand of firm but flexible US power.

    Clinton, 66, towers over Democratic and Republican prospective challengers in poll after poll. And if she balks? “If Hillary doesn’t run, it’s an open free-for-all,” former Vermont governor Howard Dean, who ran for president 10 years ago and headed the Democratic National Committee from 2005 to 2009, told AFP in a telephone interview. “I truly don’t believe she’s made up her mind.

    There’s a good chance she won’t run,” he added. Clinton, who narrowly lost the 2008 Democratic nomination to Barack Obama, has said she will likely decide after November’s mid-term elections. But she stands accused of freezing the field until her decision is announced, a charge Clinton herself appeared to bristle at. “No. People can do whatever they choose to do on whatever timetable they decide,” Clinton told ABC News on the eve of the Tuesday book rollout. A handful of Democratic alternatives are already being floated, including Vice President Joe Biden, who has acknowledged mulling another White House campaign.

    Some Republicans openly mock that scenario. “When you’re talking about Joe Biden as your next best option, that’s a problem,” said political strategist Kevin Madden, who served as spokesman for 2012 Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney. Biden “has run before a number of times and never really garnered much enthusiasm for his own candidacy,” Madden said. Biden is 71, five years older than Clinton and 19 years older than Obama. Turning back the generational clock rarely works with American voters.

    “Joe would have a tough time convincing 25-year-olds to go back another generation,” Dean said. One of the rising Democrats is Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, who is perhaps most vocal about a 2016 run. In February, he said he was “preparing in terms of the tough work, the policy work, the ground work necessary to offer a better direction for our country.” Trouble is, O’Malley barely registers nationally. Sunday’s ABC News- Washington Post poll showed Clinton lapping the field at 69 percent, Biden with 12 percent and O’Malley at two percent. Brian Schweitzer, Montana’s straighttalking former governor who recently told Time magazine that “of course” he would be a better president than Clinton, is down at one percent.

    New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is also discussed as a contender, but he too is a radar blip. Faring better at seven percent is Senator Elizabeth Warren, the anti-Wall Street crusader whose populist message and commitment to rein in corporate abuse has struck a cord with many working-class Americans. But Warren has said she is not running — in 2016, anyway. Should she reverse course, her demonstrated fundraising prowess would position her well, although Republican analysts peg her as too leftist to win. Still, “everybody’s got to wait for Hillary. She’s got the lead on the money train,” said University of Minnesota Professor Larry Jacobs, who has tracked political races for years.

    Amid the willshe- or-won’t-she lull, Republicans are not idle. They have attacked Clinton over her handling of the Benghazi crisis, launched websites aimed at derailing her potential candidacy and published an anti-Hillary e-book, “Failed Choices.” Many Republicans simply assume Clinton is the one to beat in 2016. “All the signals are go” for a Clinton run, observed Senate Republican Dan Coats, citing her book and her whirlwind speaking schedule. “I’m just assuming she’s going to run until she says otherwise.

    ” Even if Clinton pulls out, there is no wellfinanced Republican front-runner to put Democrats at a disadvantage, noted strategist Madden. “Republicans still have to get our own house in order on who our nominee will be, and it is as wide open as it has been in a number of cycles,” he said.

  • US contractors in Iraq relocated due to security concerns

    US contractors in Iraq relocated due to security concerns

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Top US weapons maker Lockheed Martin Corp on June 12 said it was evacuating about two dozen employees from northern Iraq due to security concerns, and the US state department said other companies were relocating their workers as well. “We can confirm that US citizens, under contract to the Government of Iraq, in support of the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program in Iraq, are being temporarily relocated by their companies due to security concerns in the area,” state department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement. She declined to say how many contractors were being relocated and their location, but said the US embassy and consulates were still operating normally.

    “The US embassy and consulates in Iraq remain open and continue to operate on a normal status,” Psaki said. Lockheed spokesman Michael Rein said about 25 Lockheed employees were being evacuated from the Balad area in northern Iraq as part of a larger effort to ensure their safety given growing violence in the region. He said the employees were in Iraq working with the Iraqi air force as it prepared for the arrival of the first of 36 F-16 fighter jets, which are to be ferried to Iraq later this year.