Month: November 2016

Indian American among 15 appointed to NY City Community Services Board

NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Indian American Dr. Pankaj Patel, a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Sciences at Richmond University Medical Center is one of the 15 appointed by Mayor Bill de Blasio to New York City Community Services Board.

Mayor de Blasio announced, November 28, the appointment of 12 new members and the reappointment of 3 members to the Community Services Board, the panel responsible for advising the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in areas related to the City’s community mental health and substance use treatment services. In addition, the Board will advise on the advancement of a stronger public health approach to mental illness and substance use as outlined in the City’s comprehensive plan: ThriveNYC. Appointees include leaders from the non-profit, public and private sectors with a track record of serving people with mental illness and substance use issues. The Board also will be advised by Sherry Glied, Dean of the New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of public services.

“Today we’re taking another step forward in our efforts to destigmatizing mental illness and ensuring that best practices are put in place to help our fellow New Yorkers,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “The board, which now consists of professionals whose collective experience span the private, non-profit and public sectors, is well-equipped to support ThriveNYC and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in delivering services that will benefit our New Yorkers who are most in need. I look forward to working with the Board.”

“The dynamic intellect and proven ability of today’s appointees to the Community Services Board will bring an additional dimension of support and vigor to changing the culture and expanding services for untreated mental illness and substance misuse. I am excited to work with them,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray, who spearheads ThriveNYC.

“Today’s appointees bring a wealth of experience and perspective to the Community Services Board,” said Dr. Mary T. Bassett, Commissioner of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. “Their knowledge will not only help us identify gaps in mental health and substance misuse treatment, but they will also guide us in the development of programs that address the mental health needs of all New Yorkers.”

The reappointed members of the Community Services Board include Gail B. Nayowith, Dr. Sarah Church and Dr. Roberto Lewis-Fernandez.

Gail B. Nayowith, Chair of the Board, is the Principal of 1digit LLC, a management consulting and project management practice, and has worked in the health and human services sector for decades leading vital nonprofit provider, advocacy and philanthropic organizations.

Dr. Sarah Church is a licensed clinical psychologist, with a focus in substance abuse. Dr. Church is also Executive Director for Montefiore Medical Center’s Division of Substance Abuse and Assistant Professor at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

Dr. Roberto Lewis-Fernández is a licensed psychiatrist whose work includes overcoming disparities in the care of underserved U.S. cultural groups. He is the Director of the New York State Center of Excellence for Cultural Competence and a Professor at Columbia University’s Department of Psychiatry.

The newly appointed members of the Community Services Board are Dr. Thelma Dye, Dr. Pankaj Patel, Dr. Stepahanie Le Melle, Dr. Rosa Gill, Louis Cohen, Wanda Greene, Jun Matsuyoshi, Diane Arneth, Lynnae Brown, Denise Rosario, Ahmed Jamil and Christy Parque.

Dr. Thelma Dye is a licensed psychologist and Executive Director and CEO of Northside Center for Child Development, one of New York’s oldest and most respected mental health agencies.

Dr. Pankaj Patel is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Sciences at Richmond University Medical Center.
“Mental illness is a medical illness. There is a broad spectrum of problems,” said Dr. Patel. Still, the common response to almost any of them is fear. “It could be something simple, like a panic attack,” he said, but the gut reaction from most people is “Something is wrong. They’re crazy.”

For Dr. Patel, however, mental illness is something he’s embraced, something that has shaped most of his day for the past 30 years – ever since he arrived at the former St. Vincent’s Hospital in West Brighton to begin his psychiatric training.

He said maintaining a clean bill of mental health over the course of time is tough for anyone. “All of us have a certain degree of becoming depressed in their lifetime,” he said.

Dr. Stephanie Le Melle MD is a licensed psychiatrist with a interest in the treatment and care of people with serious mental illnesses and complex needs. She is co-Director of Public Psychiatry Education at Columbia University’s Department of Psychiatry and New York State Psychiatric Institute.

Dr. Rosa Gil is the Founder, President and CEO of Comunilife, Inc., whose mission is to expand access to housing, mental health and social services to increase the quality of life of underserved, diverse communities in New York City.

Louise Cohen is the CEO of the Primary Care Development Corporation (PCDC), a non- profit Community Development Finance Institution, dedicated to expanding and strengthening the primary care safety net in the United States. She has over 25 years of experience in public health, public policy, program operations and community health needs assessment.

Wanda Greene has over 22 years of family support under the Mental Health Association and is the Director of the Family Resource Center (Mental Association of NYC), where, among other things, she maintains partnerships with public and private entities throughout New York City to provide mental health services to high need, underserved communities.

Jun Matsuyoshi is Director of Mental Health Services, APICHA Community Health Center, where she oversees all mental health services.

Diane Arneth is the Executive Director of Community Health Action of Staten Island as well as a member of Brightpoint Health. Brightpoint Health is a community-based organization that provides direct services, education and advocacy to individuals, families, and communities challenged by health disparities related to poverty, discrimination, and lack of access.

Lynnae Brown is Director of Community Access at Howie the Harp Advocacy Center, a program of Community Access Inc. Brown oversees the peer-run employment program that has trained over 800 peers to work as peer providers in human resources.

Denise Rosario is the founding Executive Director of Coalition for Hispanic Family Services and has over 30 years of experience in mental health services to children and families of color in urban communities.

Ahmed Jamil is the President of the Muslim Society Community Center that offers education, youth development and community outreach programs catering to low-income families.

Christy Parque is President and CEO of the Coalition of Behavioral Health Agencies, an advocacy and training behavioral health coalition of over 140 non-profit substance use and mental health providers that serve over 450,000 residents in New York City and surrounding counties.

Sherry Glied, a non-member, is the Special Advisor to the Community Services Board. She is the Dean of the New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service and former Professor of Health Policy and Management at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. She was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation at the Department of Health and Human Services, and served in that capacity from July 2010 through August 2012. She had previously served as Senior Economist for health care and labor market policy on the President’s Council of Economic Advisers in 1992-1993, under Presidents Bush and Clinton, and participated in the Clinton Health Care Task Force.

About the Community Services Board:
The Community Services Board (CSB) is mandated to advise the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in all areas related to the City’s community mental health and alcoholism facilities, services and programs. The CSB has been redesigned to advise on the advancement of a stronger public health approach to mental illness and substance use as outlined in the City’s comprehensive plan: ThriveNYC. New appointees represent a broad spectrum of communities, organizations and viewpoints to help engage people whose voices have previously gone unheard.

Nov 30, 2016 – 8:41 pm EST
KKK Flyers spotted on LIRR: Riders, Suffolk residents alarmed

AMAGANSETT, LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): Some Long Island Rail Road riders and other residents across Suffolk County are alarmed after they say KKK propaganda has appeared on their trains and in their neighborhoods.

“It’s really hateful,” Carlos Sandoval said. “It hurts personally.”

Sandoval said he spotted KKK flyers as he was getting off an LIRR train in Amagansett recently.

There was one on each of two seats, face up, neatly squared off,” he said. “It looked like it was meant for someone to see them and pick them up.”

Sandoval did pick them up, giving one to the conductor and one to the East Hampton Town Police Department.

“The car had been pretty crowded between East Hampton and Amagansett,” he said. “I didn’t see who might have put them there.”

Someone plastered similar flyers on cars in Patchogue two days before that, and KKK flyers also turned up outside people’s homes in East Hampton.

“Hate groups and hate speech have absolutely no place in Suffolk County,” County Executive Steve Bellone said. “We are an inclusive and welcoming community who will not be defined by the actions of a handful of hateful individuals.”

There is nothing illegal about distributing the flyers, but police still encourage people to call if they see them, just so authorities can make sure nothing crosses over into hate crime territory.

(Source: WABC)

Nov 30, 2016 – 8:29 pm EST
On his third US tour, Chhattisgarh CM eyes investment in ‘Priority Industries’

NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Every time he comes to the US, he ‘takes home something new.’ On his third US tour, Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Dr Raman Singh wooed investors to invest in new sectors, highlighting the tremendous potential across those sectors in the state that has been declared as the ‘Best fiscally managed State’ by Reserve Bank of India. Singh, currently on an official tour of the US, highlighted investment opportunities in Chhattisgarh in front of a gathering at the Indian Consulate, New York on November 29. Senior state government officials accompanied him at the interactive luncheon event, jointly hosted by US India Business Council (USIBC) and the Consulate.

In his welcome address, Subodh Kumar Singh, Secretary to Chief Minister and Commerce & Industries, described how some of the key initiatives under Raman Singh’s leadership including railway network, industrial infrastructure and smart cities in Chhattisgarh has become the main driver of growth and development in the State. He also briefed the audience about the priority industries for investment – food processing, energy, life sciences, defense, information technology, electronics, and manufacturing.

Dr Mukesh Aghi, President of USIBC in his special remark, stressed on enhanced investment partnership between US and India.

There was a brief Power Point presentation by Vivek Dhand, Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh, that highlighted recently implemented reforms including single window system, tax reforms, construction permits, environment & labor reforms, inspection reforms and commercial dispute and paperless courts. Given that the state came into existence only 16 years ago, he took the opportunity to mention that the World Bank has recently ranked Chhattisgarh fourth in Ease of Doing Business as per Ranking 2016 among all Indian states and Union Territories.

While giving introduction of Dr Raman Singh, the longest ever serving Chief Minister from BJP, Deputy Consul General Dr Manoj Kumar Mohapatra said, “Indo-US relationship is measured by number of visits. In the last two years Prime Minister Modi and President Obama met more than 12 times. That shows the defining partnership.”

Describing Chhattisgarh as ‘Heart of India’, the Chief Minister said, “I just want to tell you what it was 16 years back and what it is today.” Mentioning the reforms and policies undertaken during his tenure that has made the state a frontrunner in ease of doing business, Dr Singh said, “Chhattisgarh is the best destination for investment not just in the core sectors of mines and minerals but also in areas like IT, engineering and solar energy.”

Noting that investors may not be fully aware of the investment opportunities in the young, not so known resource-rich state, Dr Singh invited investors to visit Chhattisgarh to see the investment potential of the state. “Come, see, and then invest.”

A token of appreciation was presented to him by Dr Mukesh Aghi, followed by a Q&A session.

During the brief Q & A session, Prof. Indrajit S Saluja asked the chief minister to clarify on the allegation of a Rs. 36000 crore scam in the public distribution system in the State. Dr. Singh categorically denied there was any scam. He said it was a conspiracy. 60 lakh families benefitted from the scheme and nobody complained. “Our PDS model is unique. So far, no other state could follow that model”, Mr. Singh said.

Later, speaking with The Indian Panorama Chief Editor I S Saluja, in an exclusive interview, Dr Singh appealed to the NRIs to invest in Chhattisgarh. “Our state is the destination for investment. You will get all facilities there. The infrastructure is top class. I want investments in sectors like IT, engineering and solar energy. I am sure if they (NRIs) visit the state they will be convinced to invest. So, I want them to visit (Chhattisgarh).”

When asked if he wants to invite the media to visit Chhattisgarh so that they can project the bright side of the state, Dr Singh said, “Of course. I would invite my media friends here to visit Chhattisgarh. Every year in the first week of November we organize special event to showcase the development activities of our state. I will invite the media from US to come and have a fair idea about our activities.”

Dr Singh also said that he will ask his officials to be in direct touch with the ethnic media in US for a closer relationship to help boost the image of his state.

Nov 30, 2016 – 7:35 pm EST
Indian American Balwinder Singh pleads guilty to Khalistan terror movement involvement

NEW YORK (TIP): 42 Year old Balwinder Singh, a resident of Nevada, pleaded guilty before US District Judge Larry Hicks to one count of conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists, knowing and intending that such support would be used to carry out terrorist attacks overseas, Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Mary McCord said, November 29.

“Singh attempted to provide material support and resources to terrorists to create violence and disruption abroad,” McCord said.

“Identifying, thwarting and holding accountable individuals who pursue international terrorism is a top priority of the Department of Justice,” she said.

A citizen of India and permanent US resident, Singh went by the aliases of “Jhaji”, “Happy” and “Baljit Singh” and has been detained and charged since his arrest in December 2013.

He faces the statutory maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and deportation following his release. His sentencing was set for February 27.

His indictment says that Singh obtained asylum in San Francisco using a false identity.

According to the court filed documents and admissions made in connection with the plea agreement, between September and December 2013, Singh conspired with others to support terrorist attacks in India as part of a movement to create an independent Sikh state.

Singh communicated with co-conspirators by telephone to discuss these plans and agreed to provide material support by facilitating a co-conspirator’s travel to and within South Asia, providing funding and materials necessary to carry out an overseas attack.

In October 2013, Singh and the co-conspirators agreed that one of them would travel to India in 2013 and carry out “likely an assassination or maiming of an Indian governmental official.” The final target would be determined after the co-conspirator arrived in South Asia.

Singh purchased two sets of night-vision goggles, gave them to a co-conspirator who was going to carry out the planned attack.

In December 2013, the co-conspirator attempted to board a flight from the San Francisco International Airport to Thailand in order to carry out the attack, but was prohibited by the US law enforcement from boarding the flight.

As a result, the planned attack was never executed.

After this, Singh and his co-conspirators continued to discuss and plan terror attack in India until he was arrested.

The defense attorney noted that a clause in the plea agreement would allow Singh to ask to be sent to a third country, not India, under the US Convention Against Torture.

Nov 30, 2016 – 7:22 pm EST
Predictions For The Month Of December 2016 – Horoscope & Astrology By Bejan Daruwala

Aries: March 21 – April 19 | Ganesha says you decide it’s a time when you need to consolidate your truly phenomenal gains. Steady, sustained work is quietly embarked on, with a minimum of flash / fanfare. Family and extended family make demands, legal and / or property matters have to be worked out, responsibilities fulfilled. Like – minded people rally round you and your plans are set in motion. Organization, public skills, are always your trump card and you put them to good use; even in the fields of charity, humanitarian causes, social concerns.

Taurus: April 21 – May 21 | You are in a strong financial position and that makes for a sense of security. It helps you direct your energies once again to welfare, philanthropy, humanitarian causes and rope in a fine, active support group, too. Closer to home, family dependents, older people, kin and cousins, children and pets have to be cared for – you just love doing it anyway! Shared efforts, shared funds, shared ideals would best sum up this period.

Gemini: May 22 – June 21 | You are secure and happy in the love of those who matter most to you. There is a great easing of the strife and tensions that others may have foisted upon you. Good friends, companions, contacts will extend support, cooperation, new ideas. In this happy mood, you seek to improve your own skills, knowledge, working methods, professional competence.

Cancer: June 22 – July 22 | Communication is loving, sincere and joyous in this period. Love and romance, too, are dazzling and glorious. What is even more pleasing is that you may have to truly lead from the front; put your own charisma to work and your own neck on the block. That it’s a paid off is due to your own work, efforts, leadership, and Ganesha’s blessings.

Leo: July 23 -August 21 | You are on a real binge, hitting the shopping malls in a big way! It is a source of joy and satisfaction to be generous and giving, and it’s for others, along with yourself that you get gifts, jewels, gadgets, fun objects, accessories for home comfort. Your family, friends, loved ones are thrilled with it. It is another matter entirely that you gain prestige in the eyes of the world – it’s not that you’re buying in this way.

Virgo: August 22 – September 23 | Love is complete, intense, mind – blowing in its depth and glory and best of all, it is returned in full measure. What a way to go for a period trend! Equally promising and thrilling could be the initiation or taking off of a marvelous new project or venture. You’re likely to suffer from an overdose of affection and pleasure this period. Pray to Ganesha not to bring you back to earth with a thud as you float gloriously on Cloud nine.

Libra: September 24 – October 23 | New projects once again, and you are firmly the initiator, displaying not only leadership qualities but tact and charm along with authority. The thrust is macro-level finance and big-time deals. Cooperation and sharing come to you and are extended into the money angle, too. Public esteem, lots of goodwill come to you. In personal life, too, the give and take continues. Family life is full of reciprocal affection and you glory in it.

Scorpio: October 24 – November 22 | What you’re going through is truly far beyond a winning streak or dream run. It’s pure glory, no matter how you look at it. Communication is loving, warm, joyous and fulfilling. The same adjectives will apply to personal equations, love and romance, family bonding. Good money, accomplishment of deadlines and targets with ease and dexterity, success in your ventures and in love.

Sagittarius: November 23 – December 22 | Ganesha has decided to leave nothing out, as far as you are concerned, not at the moment, anyway. Glorious optimism, a vision that can survey practically this work and the next, are yours this period. Religion, study, metaphysics, arcane and esoteric subjects of research, tantra and mantra, even cybernetics and man-made intelligence – your vision accommodates them all!

Capricorn: December 23 – January 20 | Lots of spheres are energized and activated for you, in this period. Let’s look at the money angle first. Venture capital, loans, joint-funds will work out. So, too, will love where you invest practically your whole heart and some of your soul, too! You might move away from and into an entirely different kind of personal relationship. Talking of moving / shifting – it could also include home / house or office, perhaps even a relocation or settling outside the country.

Aquarius: January 21 – February 19 | Ganesha can be quite a prankster. Or, at least, He has a sense of humor. Lighten up, is His message to you now. Enough of hard work seems also to be the message now – though I must say that you guys love hard work and enjoy it, too. But relaxation, ease of mind and body, recreation and fun are what He gives you this period. Plenty of good times, conviviality, parties with friends and good companions.

Pisces: February 20- March 20 | You’re gearing up now to hit the big – time, but Ganesha says that you will have to wait a while more. You use this period to build up, or perhaps lay foundations for, plans, deals, projects for future gains. Ideas will be implemented with the help of people you value. You’re at work with a will, relaxed and refreshed after calling time out last period. Even legal matters will be untangled patiently and pleasantly. It’s a good feeling you have now.

Bejan Daruwalla is world’s most famous astrologer today. He appears regularly on world wide TV shows. Bejan who has been a professor in English, has authored a number of books on astrology. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi , on March 29, 2012, lunched one of Bejan’s books, ‘2012- End of the World? Bejan contributes to a number of journals and newspapers in many parts of the world which include Berkley Communications (London) Times of India (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai) and The Indian Panorama ( New York and Texas). Bejan’s predictions have mostly been correct and people the world over rely on his predictions.

As early as 1998 the publishers of the book, had said in the introduction of Bejan Daruwalla “Ganesha devotee, Bejan Daruwalla and Pete Sampras, the tennis champ, can now only compete against themselves. Today the whole world knows that Pete Sampras has created a history in the Wimbledon by winning the title for the 7th time and claiming a record breaking 13th grand slam title. Ganesha Bejan Daruwalla can never be wrong! Here’s what he had to say about Amitabh as early as November 15, 1999 in the outlook magazine. Good news for suave Amitabh……. From June 2000, his period of joy starts and 2001, itself is going to be proverbial cornucopia of plenty. In family drama he will make his mark, steal the thunder and slice his critics into silence! That’s for sure! I see the red carpet again for him. Ganesha nods in agreement.

BEJAN DARUWALLA CAN BE REACHED AT +919825470377 BETWEEN 2 & 5 P.M. AND 9 &11 P.M. (INDIA TIME)

E-MAIL: INFO@BEJANDARUWALLA.COM

Nov 29, 2016 – 8:33 pm EST
Navjot Singh Sidhu’s Wife Navjot Kaur along with Pargat Singh Join Congress

Former BJP MP Navjot Singh Sidhu’s wife Navjot Kaur Sidhu and former Awaaz-e-Punjab leader Pargat Singh today have formally joined the Congress party in the presence of Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh.

About the joining of Navjot Singh Sidhu in the Congress, Kaur said he would follow suit soon.

Navjot Kaur clears the air, says, “We are two bodies and one soul, it’s only a matter or time that Navjot Siddhu will also follow suit.”

Navjot Kaur Sidhu is a former MLA and represented Amritsar in Punjab Assembly. She resigned from the BJP recently after quitting the state assembly on 8 October.

Pargat Singh is a former hockey player and was formerly associated with the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) in Punjab. He represents Jalandhar Cantt constituency in the state assembly.

On September 8, cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu formally launched his political party Awaaz-e-Punjab along with Pargat Singh, and the Bains brothers — Simarjit Singh Bains and Balwinder Singh Bains, two former independent MLAs from Ludhiana. But, they were not ready to go out alone in Punjab polls and has expressed its desire to align with like-minded parties.

The Bains brothers have recently joined the Aam Aadmi Party recently. Elections to the 117 Punjab assembly seats are likely to be held in January or early February in 2017.

Nov 28, 2016 – 12:39 pm EST
Jio crosses 50 million subscriber mark in 83 days
New Delhi, Nov 28 (TIP) Mukesh Ambani-promoted Reliance Jio has crossed the 50 million subscriber mark in less than three months after its full-fledged 4G services launch to emerge as the largest broadband operator in the country.

According to sources, Jio — setting a new record — has acquired 1,000 customers per minute (since September 05) and 6 lakh per day.

“Jio continues to be the fastest growing company in the world and has crossed 50 million subscribers in record 83 days,” sources pointed out.

Airtel reached the same milestone of notching 50 million subscribers in 12 years, Vodafone and Idea took 13 years each.

Reliance Jio Infocomm — the new entrant in the 4G market which is competing with the likes of Airtel, Vodafone and Idea Cellular — had launched its commercial services on September 5, and as per the last update had notched up 16 million users in the first month of its operation.

The subscriber base of Jio has already reached one fifth that of Bharti Airtel, which had 262.67 million mobile subscribers in October. According to the latest data by cellular association COAI, Vodafone had 201.90 million subscribers and Idea Cellular 180.25 million users.

“Beating industry estimates, the company has signed up an average of 6 lakh subscribers a day, which is a globally unprecedented feat for any customer-facing company including the likes of Whatsapp, Facebook and Skype,” the source pointed out.

Sources claimed that Jio has become Indias largest digital services operator with highest number of mobile broadband users surpassing telecom major Airtels 41 million 3G and 4G customers combined acquired over last six years.

Only on 4G to 4G comparison, Jios customer base is now five times that of Airtel (around 10 million subscribers); 17 times of Idea (3 million subscribers).

At RILs 42nd annual general meeting, Ambani had said his new telecom venture would aim to acquire 100 million customers “in the shortest possible time and create a new world record”. This would translate into a data usage of 250 crore gigabyte per month, he had then said.

Jio, whose controversial entry into the worlds second-largest telephony market sparked off a tariff war, had onboarded 1.5 million users on its 4G network during the testing phase.

It is aggressively competing with players such as Bharti Airtel and Vodafone and is offering users data services free till December 31, 2016, if they buy Jio connection by December 03, 2016.

From January 01, 2017 the data services will become chargeable with rates starting at Rs 19 a day for occasional data users, Rs 149 a month for low data users and Rs 4,999 a month for heavy data subscribers. Jio has promised to keep voice and roaming services, free for life.
- PTI
Nov 28, 2016 – 12:28 pm EST
‘Lungi’ wearing visitor not allowed into Kerala Assembly

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM(TIP): A man wearing a white check lungi (kallimundu) was denied entry into the visitors’ gallery in the Kerala assembly on the ground it was an ‘informal’ dress, following which the state Human Rights Commission has sought a clarification from the officials.

Kunjimoyin from Kondotty in Malappuram, who had come with a group of 38 persons to witness the assembly proceedings on Nov 8, was denied permission as he was wearing the white lungi.

An upset Kunjimoyin filed a complaint before the Kerala Human Rights Commission stating that he was not prevented entry either at the gate or at the entrance of the assembly building.

But he was not allowed to enter the visitor’s gallery. Commission has sought a clarification from legislative Secretary V K Babu Prakash on whether there was a dress code in the assembly.

Meanwhile, the Assembly Speaker’s office said that ‘informal dressing is not allowed inside the house and gallery. That is the usual practise. A decorum has to be followed. The ‘Kallimundu’ is an informal dress and so the person was not allowed’, an official said.

“We are adhering to the procedures followed by Parliament on dressing. Only exception is given to religious symbols,” he said.

Nov 26, 2016 – 11:35 pm EST
‘JAYA STARTS SPEAKING, TO WALK SOON’

CHENNAI (TIP): Apollo Hospitals chairman Dr Prathap C Reddy on Nov 25 said that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has started speaking well and would walk soon. He said Jayalalithaa is undergoing static and active body physiotherapy. “Now, the next thing is to see that she (Jayalalithaa) stands up and walks, and then she is ready to go home,” Reddy said.

Jayalalithaa was admitted to Apollo Hospitals on September 22 following fever and dehydration. Since then, she has been constantly monitored by experts and specialists from the UK and AIIMS.

Reddy said that most of the time Jayalalithaa is breathing without respiratory support, and now she has started talking with the help of a speaking device.

Explaining that it is not easy for people to talk with a speaker (device) since they have to hold their breath, Reddy said for now Jayalalithaa is only using the speaker for a few minutes. “It is only temporary,” he said.

Nov 26, 2016 – 11:28 pm EST
MADE MY WAY ON MY OWN WITH NO HELP: PRIYANKA CHOPRA

She began her journey in showbiz with no starry links and has won global recognition due to her talent. Actress Priyanka Chopra says she is grateful to fans for putting her ‘in a position’ where she is ‘used to being the face on a poster’. But she wants to do more. The actress also said that “whatever she has achieved is due to her own hard work, without the help and support of anybody else”.

“I started with nothing, no support. A complete newcomer to even Mumbai city, not even the movie industry. I didn’t even know anyone. So I kind of did all that, I did on my own without the help and support of anybody,” Priyanka said.

“The love and affection I have got from audiences around the world kind of gave me the strength to do that. They have put me in a position where I am used to being the face on a poster. I don’t want to settle for that.”

Priyanka talked about her career in an interview with a channel when she flew down to Toronto to unveil the trailer of production venture

‘Sarvann’. Priyanka was crowned Miss India and went on to win the Miss World title at age 17. Her Bollywood debut came in 2003 with ‘The Hero: Love Story of a Spy’.

After that there was no looking back.

The actress made waves with international singles like ‘In my city’ and ‘Exotic’ before heading to the international TV space as Alex Parrish in ‘Quantico’, which launched in 2015.

The actress is currently seen in ‘Quantico’ Season 2, which is aired in India on Star World and Star World. She will soon make her Hollywood debut with ‘Baywatch’. ‘Sarvann’ , a Punjabi film, is Priyanka’s second production venture under her banner Purple Pebble Pictures. Her first was ‘Ventilator’ which released on November 4.

‘Sarvann’ is co-produced by Vashu Bhagnani and stars Amrinder Gill. Talking about her decision to launch the trailer in Toronto, Priyanka said: “I have always got a lot of love and affection whenever I’ve come to Toronto. I’ve come here for a lot of my Hindi films, I’ve come here for

‘Quantico’ before, specially coming here for a Punjabi film which has such a strong Punjabi community, just seems like the ideal place to launch it.”

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:44 pm EST
Dear Zindagi – MOVIE REVIEW

STORY: Kaira (Alia) is an astute cinematographer who is bohemian in her approach to life. Enter Dr Jehangir Khan (Shah Rukh), a top-notch therapist, who helps her lay her innermost demons to rest.

REVIEW: In a scene from the film, Alia who is heartbroken, bites into a green chilli. As her eyes cloud over, she looks at her best buddy Fatima (Ira Dubey) and says — “the chilli is pungent.’’ Tears, silly fears and frailties all part of the life process. So brave it we must. This kind of sums up the life lesson writer-director Gauri Shinde’s second directorial film imparts.

But unlike her first film English Vinglish that hit the bullseye subtly, here the message is hammered. Of course some of the writing has merit. There are funny and clever one-liners. There are numerous analogies drawn to explain the innumerable relationships one encounters in today’s fast-fleeting urban life. Some of this makes you chuckle, some of it makes you cry. So far so good. However, the first half of the film meanders, making you restless. Frankly, things actually begin to look up just before intermission when SRK, without his trademark outstretched arms, makes an appearance.

As said earlier, the protagonist played by Alia flits like a butterfly from Raghuvendra (Kunal) to Sid

(Angad) and later to Rumi (Ali). And there is a backstory to show why she is so messed up. Honestly, her angst bites to some degree but not entirely.

To analyse why she is the way she is, Alia makes an appointment with SRK a DD (dimaag ka doctor) in Goa. It is on his couch that she is able to voice her fears. As he meticulously picks up the pieces of her past and

‘pieces’ her together, the film allows the viewer too to confront some of their own anxieties. So it isn’t all in vain.

Feisty Alia, one of the better actors of the current generation, turns in a nicely nuanced performance. And SRK in his sober-avatar possessing infinite gyaan tempts you to seek out a therapist. If you’re in the mood to do some soul-searching this weekend, this film could do it for you.

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:42 pm EST
Indian Origin Nikki Haley to be the US Ambassador to the United Nations

NEW YORK (TIP): South Carolina’s Governor of Indian origin Nikki Haley has been chosen by President elect Donald Trump to be the US ambassador to the United Nations, the transition team announced Wednesday, November 23. She would be the first woman and minority representative to join Trump administration and the first ever Indian-American Cabinet rank official in any administration. Haley had a face-to-face meeting with Trump at Trump Tower in New York last week.

Accepting the offer Haley said in a statement that the US “faces enormous challenges” both at home and internationally. She cited a “sense of duty” in accepting Trump’s offer.

“When the President believes you have a major contribution to make to the welfare of our nation, and to our nation’s standing in the world, that is a calling that is important to heed,” Haley said. “The second is a satisfaction with all that we have achieved in our state in the last six years and the knowledge that we are on a very strong footing.”

Haley will keep serving as governor until the Senate confirms her nomination.

“We still have much to do in South Carolina, and my commitment to the people of our State will always remain unbreakable, both while I continue to hold this office, and thereafter,” she said in a statement.

The Indian American community hailed president-elect Donald Trump’s selection of South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley to be the next US Ambassador to the UN and expressed the hope that she will do a great job in her new position. Nikki Haley (born Nimrata “Nikki” Randhawa; January 20, 1972) is a Republican who has served as the 116^th Governor of South Carolina since 2011. Prior to becoming governor, she represented Lexington County in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2005 to 2011.

Haley is the first woman to serve as Governor of South Carolina; at the age of 44, she is the youngest current governor in the United States. She is the second Asian-American of Indian descent to serve as governor in the United States, after Bobby Jindal of Louisiana. As governor, she also serves as chair, ex-officio, of the board of trustees of the University of South Carolina during her term in office.

Born in Bamberg, the daughter of Indian immigrants, Haley’s first job was keeping the books for her family’s clothing store -at the age of 13. She is a proud graduate of Clemson University where she earned a degree in accounting.

Haley and her husband, Michael, a Captain in the Army National Guard and combat veteran who was deployed to Afghanistan’s Helmand Province, attend Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church in Lexington. The Haleys have two children, Rena, 18, and Naline, 15.

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:33 pm EST
Consulate General, NY Reaches out to Community to Redress and Serve

NEW YORK (TIP): The Consulate General of India, New York, organized two Outreach programs for the Indian-American community, particularly the Sikh community, in the Connecticut and Massachusetts region in the month of November, 2016.

Manoj Mohapatra, the Deputy Consul General speaks to the congregation about the consular services

At these outreach events the Consulate, in association with Cox and Kings Global Services (CKGS), also organized an application collection camp for Passport, Visa and OCI services. Over 80 applications were collected from the community at each event. There was also an interaction session with the community, in both the outreach events, where they were informed of the recent changes made in the Passport, Visa and OCI application process and the efforts taken in streamlining the application procedure. Information on the time lines for each process was also clarified.

These Outreach events allowed the Consulate to let the community know of the efforts being made in processes to ensure smooth running of all Consular services being provided.

A view of the congregation

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:30 pm EST
Former Minister Ponnala Laksmaiah given a reception by INOC Telangana Chapter

NEW YORK (TIP): Indian National Overseas Congress USA – Telangana Chapter organized a meet and greet event with Former PCC President and Ex Minister Shri. Ponnala Lakshmaiah on November 12th 2016. This event was attended by NRIs from Telangana based in New Jersey.

Shudh Parkash Singh, National Chairman of the Indian National Overseas Congress (I) USA and other senior leaders of Telangana chapter addressed the meeting. “Mr. Ponnala is the first leader who blessed the formation of the Telangana chapter of INOC USA when he was the TPCC President”, Shudh said in his speech.

Ponnala Lakshmaiah while blaming the Telangana government for pressurizing the media not to report any negative news in the state of Telangana, urged all the responsible NRIs to rely on social media to expose the ground reality and the problems faced by the people of the state.

Ravinder Thota, Sravanth Poreddy and Krishna Chaitanya (KC) also spoke on the occasion.

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:27 pm EST
Indian American community leader Harish Thakkar honored at the NYC Council Diwali

NEW YORK CITY (TIP): The New York City Council celebrated Diwali, as usual, this year on November 15. On the occasion, some Indian Americans were recognized and honored for their services to the community. One of them was Harish Thakkar who is a well-known community activist.

Harish Thakkar is honored. Seen in the picture below, from L to R: Assemblyman David Weprin, Council Member Barry Grodenchik, Harish Thakkar, Democratic Queens District Leader Dr. Neeta Jain, Council Member Rory Lancman and Councilman Peter Koo

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:26 pm EST
INDIAN AMERICANS AMONG SIX NEW MEMBERS TO JOIN USIBC TO ADVANCE INDIA-US COMMERCIAL RELATIONSHIP

WASHINGTON (TIP): The U.S.-India Business Council’s (USIBC) board of directors announced, November 22, 2016, the appointments of six global business leaders to serve as members of the board. Among them are three Indian Americans. They are Sanjay Bhatnagar, President & CEO, WaterHealth International; Amit Midha, President of Asia Pacific and Japan Region and Chairman, Global Emerging Markets, Dell and Bob Patel, CEO, LyondellBasell. Others nominated are John Rood, Senior Vice President, Lockheed Martin International. Omar Ishrak, CEO, Medtronic and Enrique Ostale, CEO of Latin America, India, and Africa, Walmart. They join a prestigious group of CEOs and executives on USIBC’s board of directors, including USIBC Chair John Chambers, Executive Chairman of Cisco Systems.

“The U.S.-India Business Council and the board of directors remain committed to advancing the bilateral commercial relationship between the United States and India. Our members are encouraged by Government of India’s commitment to economic growth and improving the business climate in India. Even as a transition occurs in the U.S. government, USIBC will continue to advocate for meaningful and consistent dialogues at the highest levels between the two sides. The U.S.-India partnership is deeper and broader than ever before and given the growing importance of India as the world’s fastest growing economy, it is critical that the next administration continue the work on furthering ties between our countries,” said Mukesh Aghi, President, USIBC.

“Medtronic is pleased to partner with the U.S.-India Business Council in its efforts to deliver world-class and innovative healthcare solutions to millions of Indians,” said Omar Ishrak, Medtronic chairman and chief executive officer. “The innovation-based economy supports the growth of the life sciences industry and continues to be one of the most promising opportunities for the U.S.-India bilateral ties.” “I’m pleased to join the U.S.-India Business Council and work towards bolstering the commercial ties between India and the United States,” said Amit Midha, President, Commercial, Dell EMC Asia Pacific and Japan. “These bilateral opportunities will only continue to grow as India makes impressive strides in implementing economic reforms. Digital India holds a trillion dollar technology opportunity, we will continue to collaborate with governments, partners and customers to create a technology enabled future for modern India.”

Sanjay Bhatnagar, President & CEO at WaterHealth International said, “As India continues on its track towards economic progress, it is more essential than ever before that businesses bring long-term, inclusive and sustainable solutions to address the challenges India is facing.”

Enrique Ostale, CEO of Latin America, India, and Africa at Walmart said, “I am pleased to join an esteemed group on USIBC’s board of directors and support its efforts to deepen the business relationship between the U.S. and India. Through our India investments, we continue to support local businesses and contribute to the prosperity of the nation.”

Bhavesh (Bob) Patel, CEO and Chairman of the Management Board at LyondellBasell said, “The U.S. and India have a special relationship, and I’m very honored to be part of an organization dedicated to strengthening our ties through commerce. As India’s middle class continues to grow, so will the need for durable products that make modern life more convenient and comfortable.”

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:23 pm EST
Seven Indian-Americans honored with New England Choice Awards

WALTHAM, MA (TIP): Seven Indian-American luminaries and two organizations received New England Choice Awards at a black-tie gala last month at Westin Hotel in Waltham, MA. Philanthropists Jaishree and Desh Deshpande, founders of the Deshpande Foundation, were honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The winners in each category are :

Academics -Vijay Kumar, Associate Dean of Digital Learning, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Art and Culture (Individual) – Jothi Raghavan, Founder, Nrityanjali School of Dance, Art and Culture (Organization) – LearnQuest Academy of Music, Business and Entrepreneurship – Amar Sawhney, Chairman and CEO, Ocular Therapeutix Inc Community Catalyst – Puran Dang, Mithas, IAL, IIT-SINE, TiE-Boston, Ekal and others

Healthcare – Dr. Dinesh Patel, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School

Non-Profit Organization – Saheli Philanthropy – Venkat Srinivasan, Vice Chair, American India Foundation (AIF)

Youth Leadership – Gautam Narula, Award Winning Author: Remain Free

The New England Choice Awards are presented by INE MultiMedia in collaboration with INDIA New England News, the region’s oldest and largest online, print and video magazine serving the South Asian community. INE received more than 250 nominations for these awards. A jury of 11 individual selected the final winners.

“The jury has chosen the legends of our community for the first New England Choice Awards,” said Dr. Manju Sheth, CEO of INE MultiMedia, a Waltham, MA-based non-profit organization devoted to promoting and supporting charitable organizations, art, culture, education and empowerment through workshops, seminars and multimedia.

Philanthropists Gururaj “Desh” Deshpande and Jaishree Deshpande were recognized for their support for education, innovation and entrepreneurship in the New England region and worldwide.

Upendra Mishra, publisher of INDIA New England News and the IndUS Business Journal, said “We are honoring Jaishree, Desh and the Deshpande Foundation in recognition of their invaluable support of education, innovation, entrepreneurship and helping create a new generation of technology leaders and entrepreneurs in the United States, India, and Canada.” The Deshpande Foundation founded by the couple promotes social entrepreneurship by supporting a variety of non-profit organizations in India working in the areas of health, education, microcredit and agriculture.

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:20 pm EST
Indian teen arrested 5 times in November in New Jersey

BRUNSWICK, NJ (TIP): A 19-year-old Indian was arrested five times in 12 days in November on multiple charges including attempted assault by auto, driving under the influence and drug possession, according to a report by NJ.com.

Sai Ramagiri was initially arrested on Nov. 4 by the Plainsboro Police Department for allegedly attempting to run over a friend with his vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, says the report quoting police.

He was then arrested at around 1:30 p.m. on Nov. 8 after police found Ramagiri “leaned over vomiting” near a Jeep on Monet Court with a shredded rear tire. Officers recovered marijuana and drug paraphernalia from the vehicle and charged Ramagiri with DWI, drug possession and several motor vehicle summonses. He was later released.

Two days later, Monmouth Junction firefighters found the teen with a white Porsche against a guardrail on Ridge Road, police said. Ramagiri, who was standing outside the vehicle, told officials the vehicle ran out of gas, police said.

An officer found a marijuana cigarette sticking out of Ramagiri’s front jeans pocket and he was arrested and charged with drug possession and DWI. He was processed and later released on a summons.

The next arrest came as Ramagiri was driving the 2016 Porche on Ridge Road and the South Brunswick officer who arrested him five days earlier saw him behind the wheel, police said.

The Plainsboro Police arrested Ramagiri Nov 15 again after police stopped him in his Porsche for failing to maintain lanes while driving on Plainsboro Road. He was charged with DWI, having open alcohol containers in the vehicle and several motor vehicle summonses, according to the report.

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:17 pm EST
The implications of demonetization and Trump’s win will be far-reaching

President-Elect Donald Trump met with the New York Times staff at the newspaper’s office to make up with the premier newspaper of the US

Trump’s election as US President and demonetization in India arrived like conjoined twins on November 9. Joseph Schumpeter’s phrase “creative destruction”, used in 1942 to characterize industrial evolution, is the hopeful outcome. Experts are divided as neither falls into a neat historical precedent.

Since PM Narendra Modi’s midnight announcement, queues of people wishing to withdraw money for weddings, agricultural inputs, studies, medical treatment or simply to meet daily expenditure continue to mull outside most banks. This has been particularly so in the Capital, where Parliament’s winter session gave the Opposition a ready stage for protests. The delivery of additional smaller and new higher denomination notes, printing of which lags demand, has been dismal in the hinterland. The crisis in rural areas has been compounded after cooperative banks were barred from the exercise, apparently due to their links to politicians in many states.

Thus, while controlling black money has universal support, the poor implementation is souring public opinion. A number of conclusions can be reached. One, daily tweaking of levels, pretexts and manner of withdrawal confirms lack of planning. Two, making the Rs 2,000 note smaller and thus unusable in existing ATMs without recalibration defies common sense. The disruption of supply chains, private transportation and rural credit when the rabi season sowing was underway needs explaining. Finally, eliminating middle denomination notes – Rs 500 – made the Rs 2,000 note unusable as no one had change at retail level. The government should have had enough new notes when rendering 86 per cent of the currency invalid overnight.

Experts on emerging markets are left incredulous. Ruchir Sharma of Morgan Stanley warned that populism “cannot paper over economic chaos”. India, he argues, is cash dependent, but its figure of 12 per cent of GDP compares with US’ 8 per cent and China’s 10 per cent. Tax collection is 16 per cent of GDP, “slightly higher than the norm for India’s peers”. Unlike India’s amnesty scheme that preceded demonetization, Indonesia’s keeping tax low at 4 per cent drew out $300 billion of hidden wealth. Sharma concludes that “revenge is not a development strategy”.

Jean Druze likened the government’s move to shooting at the tires of a racing car. Respectable Larry H Summers expressed doubts about achieving stated objectives, pointing out the moral hazard of inconveniencing the majority honest people to bag a few crooks.

After incremental bad news that cash shortage could only be ameliorated in some months, not weeks or even days as Modi hinted initially, the government resorted to jingoism. Indian people were participating in a public ritual or mahayagya of self-cleansing for larger national good and better future. Thus, its counter-terrorism role to choke funding by counterfeit currency was emphasized.

India’s high risk and immediately disruptive policy has been unleashed when externally the world faces what The Economist calls “The New Nationalism”. Modi is in their “League of Nationalists” which includes China’s Xi Jinping; Turkey’s Recip Erdogan, Russia’s Vladimir Putin, and of course Donald Trump. Waiting in the wings are rising nationalists on the left and the right in Europe, particularly Marine Le Pen in France who if elected can spell the end of the EU. Thus, the timing for Indian financial experimentation is inappropriate as trade partnerships and alliances are tested globally.

US leadership becomes critical at this juncture as since World War II it has underpinned the defense and propagation of a liberal and open international order, albeit for its own dominance. The economic power shift to Asia with the rise of China and now India and the concomitant de-industrialization in the US and economic distress in Europe, combined with the threat of Islamic terrorism, have created conditions for the rise of the new nationalism. The EU was an experiment in post-nationalism where nation states incrementally surrendered sovereignty to a supra-national entity. The process faces reversal.

Trump is the wild card in this new game. In a New York Times interview on November 22, having kissed and made up, he moderated electoral rhetoric on some issues like prosecuting Hillary Clinton and climate change. But his core beliefs remain intact like lowering taxes, renewing US infrastructure or re-examining trade deals. He announced US withdrawal from a putative Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) that underpins US “pivot” to Asia and China containment strategy. Will China read it as US retreat or peace offering remains undetermined. The TPP, constituting two-fifth of the world’s economy, was to rewrite not just tariff and trade rules but harmonies standards on intellectual property, environment and labor rights. China will try filling the gap by either advancing a “Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific” tying 21 countries or pushing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which will, besides 10 ASEAN members, have India, Australia, New Zealand as well as China, ROK and Japan. This is the Chinese riposte to a US-centered intrusion into Asia. India needs to move cautiously as the cracks widen or heal.

Meanwhile Pakistan, on the eve of army chief Gen Raheel Sharif’s retirement on November 29, has provoked India by repeat beheadings of Indian soldiers. India can either react clandestinely locally, which is unusable domestically by the BJP for jingoism or overtly, which should stall Gen Sharif’s retirement. Iran, too, is on tenterhooks with radical elements salivating at the nuclear deal falling through if Trump reimposes sanctions, which would be resisted by its European allies and Russia. On Syria, Trump, in the same interview, indicated urgency for a solution. Is he realizing that US retreat, as happened after World War I, would merely buy time till the US has to intervene under worse conditions?

Opposition members in the Rajya Sabha demand that the Prime Minister make a statement on demonetization in the House, during the winter session of Parliament in New Delhi.
Photo courtesy of PTI

With the Opposition unity enhanced, Parliament stymied and the Modi government’s ability to restore currency-in-hand normalcy in question, will Modi – like Trump – tamper the government’s brash approach to tackling black money, terror funding and counterfeit currency? With free fire across the LoC, the deterrence value of “surgical strike I” is questionable. “Surgical strike II” on black money has disabled a growing economy and launched a Mao-like, hopefully not fatal, “great leap forward”. History teaches us that for civilizational behemoths like India and China, only little leaps work. For global hegemons like the US leap-backs are equally fatal.

(The author is a former Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, India)

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:09 pm EST
Monetary Stalinism: Perils of tinkering with jameen, jorru and jeb

We do not want another ‘god’ as the political leader of our country…We must not only not have any more gods…we must also ‘devalue‘ the exaggerated importance that we have given to the office of Prime Minister.”

The author of this wisdom lies gravely unwell in a nursing home in New Delhi. Much before old age and its attendant infirmities took their toll, this man used to articulate – on behalf of the BJP – wise propositions of good governance and democratic accountability. His name is Jaswant Singh, the most suave, educated and responsible minister in the Vajpayee era.

Jaswant Singh had made this formulation in 1987. That was the age when the Prime Minister had more than four hundred seats in the Lok Sabha; he also had a majority in the Rajya Sabha. He had a shouting brigade who would keep the presiding officers in check; he had an officer in the PMO who would publicly deride Opposition leaders as “cretins”. That was the age of prime ministerial supremacy and it produced many unmitigated national disasters.

Let us dig a little deeper in history. The year is 1971. The legend has it that the legendary soldier, Sam Manekshaw, told off an impatient Prime Minister Indira Gandhi that he would not be prepared for “action” in East Pakistan till he was satisfied that adequate preparations had been made and logistical wrinkles sorted out. The Prime Minister had the good sense to heed the sound advice of a sound officer, and lived thereafter to see the Indian armed forces settle Pakistan’s hash.

These glimpses from the past are being recalled to reiterate the lessons the recent history has taught us. And, the unambiguous lesson, from 1975-77 onward, has been a cultivated distrust in the idea of an omnipotent Prime Minister and his overweening ambition. Beware of a too powerful Prime Minister. India is too vast a country to be at the mercy of a Prime Minister and his wisdom.

The demonetization mess painfully brings home the correctness of Jaswant Singh’s caution against elevating a leader as “god” who must be rendered unambiguous obedience and obeisance. The utter incompetence in implementing the “demonetization” drive merely underlines the total abdication by the Reserve Bank of India of its institutional autonomy and voice. The RBI Governor was duty-bound to tell the Prime Minister to slow down, just as General Sam Manekshaw once told another Prime Minister. The country is a daily witness how the Finance Ministry officials are encroaching upon the RBI’s institutional space and making a mess of it.

This is incongruent. Here is a regime -whose senior-most impresarios take considerable pride in micro-management and have built up a formidable reputation in Gujarat as control freaks – which was so callously inattentive to the post-demonetization dislocations. The very arbitrariness and the resulting chaos are being sought to be palmed off as “worth the pain” because Prime Minister Modi “means well”.

No one is sure to what extent the Finance Minister, leave alone the rest of the Cabinet members, were privy to this so-called “surgical strike” on black money. The country remains in the dark as to whose counsel the Prime Minister sought while firmaning this most drastic and draconian change in currency notes. Not since Morarji Desai’s gold control (in the wake of the Chinese aggression) order has any other single governmental initiative touched the lives of so many Indians. Yet the collective thinking and collective decision-making appear to have been done away with.

This unhealthy concentration of power and authority in one man can only be a recipe for unhappy consequences. Already the blue-book of personality cult is operational. Ideological, political and moral approval is sought for the Prime Minister and his “bold” move. Anyone disagreeing with the Leader is being called a habitual dissenter, a fake secularist, and a potential “deshdrohi”. Anyone dissenting is dismissed and ridiculed as an accomplice of the corrupt and the terrorist. The officials down the line have interpreted this kingly intolerance as a simple license to shut people up. For example, in Indore, the local officials have outlawed any criticism on the social media of the demonetization decision because they think “internet social media wars” could disrupt social peace. The Leader can disrupt the daily lives of the millions and millions of citizens but no citizen can have a right to share his/her plight or vent anger about being denied one’s own money. On the other hand, the Prime Minister’s Office uses the very social media to conduct an “opinion poll” of its own and claims wide public approval for the demonetization move.

Why was one individual – however popular, wise, and honest – allowed to undertake this experiment in monetary Stalinism? Collectivist impulses of the State have been let loose. Millions and millions of households have been forced to surrender their meagre savings to the banks. The mopped-up savings will now be available to the Omnipotent Sarkar, to be dispersed as per the preference of the ruling clique. If Stalin could force the Soviet citizens to donate their labor for industrialization and for the glory of “motherland,” we can also force our people to cough up their hard-earned savings to fight off the evil Pakistan. The minatory penetration of a Leviathan State is complete and total even in the remotest part of the land; each day the State issues firmans on how much and how a citizen can use his own money. All because the Leader wanted to be “bold” and to “transform” India, like no other Indian leader had done these last 70 years.

In the best of the Stalinist traditions the (virtual) mobs are being encouraged to denounce anyone who dare question the ruling regime’s preferences and priorities. We are manufacturing new orthodoxies: any governmental initiative-good, bad or malevolent – will not be questioned if it is declared to be in aid of fighting “corruption, black money, terrorism and counterfeiting of currency.” It is demanded of the citizens that they put up with the “inconvenience” in “our fight” against these presumed objectives. As in Comrade Stalin’s days, endorsements for the regime are expected. Expectedly, the venerable Ratan Tata has led the chorus of approval. Just stand up and applaud.

A wise king was always advised to leave his subject unmolested of his two possessions – jameen (land) and jorru (womenfolk). Rulers, democratic or authoritarian, have faced most primeval resistance whenever they have sought to take liberties with their citizens’ land or women. Now, we have witnessed a new experiment with a democratically elected king putting his hand in the subject’s jeb (pocket).

Consequences will be there.

(The author is the chief editor of the Tribune group of publications)

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:03 pm EST
Native movements to determine K-issue, says Sartaj Aziz

Sartaj Aziz

ISLAMABAD (TIP): Sartaj Aziz, Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif’s adviser on foreign affairs, said on Nov 26 that the Kashmir issue would only be resolved through indigenous movements led by the younger generation of Kashmiris.

He told legislators in the National Assembly here that Pakistan would continue extending political, diplomatic and moral support to the Kashmir cause at international, regional and bilateral forums.

” We have been taking our diplomatic campaign forward with zeal since Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s speech regarding the Kashmir issue at the United Nations General Assembly. The movement has not lost any of its zeal even after the aggression against it and Pakistan will continue to support it,” Aziz told legislators. He said any dialogue with India would be conditional on talks on Kashmir. “Pakistan is willing to hold talks with India on all issues on the condition that the Kashmir dispute be resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions,” Aziz said.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan foreign office summoned Indian deputy high commissioner J P Singh on Friday and lodged a strong protest against “indiscriminate” and “unprovoked” shelling at the Line of Control. The foreign office said a letter of protest was handed over to the Indian official. Islamabad has protested at least eight times in the last six weeks claiming that Indian troops target civilians from across the LoC and working boundary.

Tension between Pakistan and India has been running high since the September attack on an Army camp in Uri that left 19 Indian soldiers dead. Following the Uri incident, the 2003 ceasefire agreement between the two countries has been frequently breached by troops on both sides.

Nov 26, 2016 – 4:00 pm EST
At least five killed, 27 wounded in Afghan triple bombing

JALALABAD, AFGHANISTAN (TIP): At least five people were killed and 27 others wounded in a triple bombing in eastern Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province Nov 26, provincial officials said.

There was no claim of responsibility for the three bombings in Jalalabad, the capital of Nangarhar province, which is a hotbed of IS militancy.

“Five people were martyred in three explosions in different parts of Jalalabad of Nangarhar province this morning,” provincial spokesperson Ataullah Khogyani told AFP.

Khogyani said the first blast was a roadside bomb which detonated outside the house of a senior prison official, Abdul Hakim, killing him and a child and wounding six others.

The second blast came outside the fire brigade office –from where the first rescuers are usually dispatched after an attack — killing three and wounding 21.

Khogyani said the third blast came as people gathered at Hakim’s house after the first blast, but there were no casualties.

Dr Najib Kamawal, director of the Nangarhar civil hospital confirmed the toll.

The IS group appears to be intensifying attacks against the government and civilians as Afghan forces, backed by NATO air strikes, step up operations against them in Nangarhar.

Last week IS claimed a massive suicide blast targeting Shiites in Kabul that killed at least 27 people.

In late October, a suicide bomber killed at least six people at a gathering of tribal elders seeking aid for war-displaced families in Jalalabad.

As well as the emerging threat from IS loyalists, who are making gradual inroads across Afghanistan, Taliban fighters are active in Nangarhar. (AFP)

Nov 26, 2016 – 3:58 pm EST
4 militants, 2 Pakistani soldiers killed in attack on mosque

ISLAMABAD (TIP): Pakistan’s military and officials say a group of militants have attacked a mosque at an army facility in northwest Pakistan, triggering a shootout in which four insurgents and two soldiers were killed.

The army in a statement said 14 troops were also wounded in Saturday’s suicide attack on Ghalani Camp in Mohmand tribal region bordering Afghanistan.

It said the attackers wanted to enter the camp and started firing after they reached the mosque, where residents and a large number of recruits were present. It said the attackers were “contained in the outer courtyard” of the mosque, and subsequently all four died.

Two security officials also confirmed the account and said a search operation is underway to trace and arrest any accomplices of the attackers. (AP)

Nov 26, 2016 – 3:57 pm EST
Tracksuited Thai junta chief leads workout for bureaucrats

BANGKOK (TIP): He’s a mercurial army general known for penning saccharine ballads and angry tirades against his critics. Now Thailand’s junta chief has launched a new eye-catching project: trimming the waistlines of the kingdom’s civil servants.

Former army chief turned Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha ditched his fatigues for a tracksuit and trainers Wednesday as he led hundreds of bureaucrats in an mass exercise session.

As music blasted out of loudspeakers he boxed, played volleyball and led an aerobics class, complete with star-jumps and squats, alongside hundreds of employees of Government House.

The trim 62-year-old, who seized power in 2014, has ordered all civil servants to exercise every Wednesday afternoon following concerns that Thailand’s famously laid back attitude to life has thickened their waistlines.

Prayut revels in being macho, plain-speaking and unpredictable — a demeanour that creates many amusing press appearances and is a gift to social media meme-makers.

Highlights have included him kicking a muay thai boxer, throwing a banana at a cameraman, tickling a reporter’s ear and riding a bike around Government House as his security detail jogged behind in the tropical heat.

Each Friday night he delivers a nationally broadcast “bringing happiness back” speech in which he doles out advice to Thais — anything from how to get foreigners to appreciate pungent durian fruit to the best Korean soap opera.

He has also written two ballads since his coup emphasising love for the nation and what it means to be Thai.

Thailand has been politically divided since the military launched a coup in 2006 that toppled Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his elected government.

Years of debilitating street protests and another coup in 2014 that toppled Yingluck Shinawatra — Thaksin’s sister – followed.

The Shinawatra clan is loved by Thailand’s rural and urban poor.

But they are loathed by Bangkok’s middle classes and military elite, who say the family were corrupt.

Prayut has vowed to bridge the country’s divides but reconciliation seems far off.

His critics see him as the most authoritarian ruler Thailand has had in a generation. Some have likened him to Field Marshal Phibunsongkhram, a Second World War-era dictator who famously issued decrees on how Thais should behave, including how long they should sleep for, how they should spend their days off and how they should dress. (AFP)

Nov 26, 2016 – 3:56 pm EST
Community welcomes Nikki Haley’s nomination as US Ambassador to the UN

NEW YORK (TIP): The Indian American community hailed president-elect Donald Trump’s selection of South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley to be the next US Ambassador to the UN and expressed the hope that she will do a great job in her new position.

Rajiv Khanna, President, India-America Chamber of Commerce, told TIP that Trump has to be commended for such decision. ” I am very happy to hear that an Indian-American has been selected to be the U.S. ambassador to the UN. I hope this would give her the foreign policy credentials, which would enable her to run for President some day. President elect Trump has to be commended for being a president to all people and picking the best persons for his administration, including those who have not supported him in the election.”

Former Louisiana governor Bobby Jindal, who ran against Trump in the GOP primaries, tweeted: ‘Congrats to my friend @NikkiHaley! She has done an outstanding job leading South Carolina and will represent us well at the UN.’

Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Nisha Desai Biswal tweeted: ‘Impressive pick for UN Ambassador…Congrats to Gov. @nikkihaley, first Indian American nominated for this important position.

US Ambassador to India Richard Verma tweeted: ‘Congratulations Gov. Haley on your nomination to be the next US Amb to @UN. Proud moment for Indian-American community! @nikkihaley @USUN’

Sampat Shivangi, an old-time Republican leader, told Times of India that Trump’s decision a “masterstroke” which Trump’s decision a “masterstroke” which would not only bring the Indian-American community closer to the Republican Party, but also strengthen India-US relationship.

“Haley’s appointment — her Indian and Sikh heritage — is a clear indication of inclusivity for the incoming administration. The President-elect is uniting the party and getting competent leaders with proven track record to serve in his administration,” Times of India quoted Puneet Ahluwalia, who was advisor to the Trump Campaign on Asia Pacific Islanders committee.

Sanjay Puri, Chairman of US India Political Action Committee (USINPAC) congratulated Nikki Haley on her nomination, remarking, “USINPAC has been working with the Trump transition team to make sure that qualified Indian Americans have the opportunity to serve in the Trump administration. Gov. Haley has done a tremendous work as South Carolina’s first female and Indian American Governor and she will surely succeed as the top diplomat at the United Nations.”
(TIP Bureau)

Nov 26, 2016 – 3:45 pm EST

Month: November 2016

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