The Indian Panorama

Year: 2018

  • Reviving ‘Neighborhood First’

    Reviving ‘Neighborhood First’

    India’s regional reset won’t be complete without a change in its Pakistan policy

    By Rakesh Sood
    “Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s critics acknowledge his uncanny ability to take bold decisions and this reflects in his foreign policy initiatives. Interestingly, he is also demonstrating an ability to undertake course corrections. The informal summit at Wuhan, China, last month and a visit to Nepal this month reflect a change aimed at reviving the ‘neighborhood first’ policy, announced in 2014. The big challenge, however, will be providing a sense of direction to the policy on Pakistan which has oscillated between ‘jhappi’ and ‘katti’.”

    Mr. Modi had received Chinese President Xi Jinping in September 2014 in Gujarat reflecting his personalized diplomacy even though the ongoing stand-off in Chumar in eastern Ladakh cast a shadow on the visit. The personalized diplomacy was reciprocated the following year when Mr. Modi visited China and Mr. Xi received him in Xian, but its limits soon became apparent.

    In mid-2016, China blocked India’s bit to join the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) despite a meeting between the two leaders in Tashkent on the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This was followed by China vetoing Masood Azhar’s listing as a terrorist in the UN Security Council even though the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) is a banned entity. China’s veto continued even after the Uri Army camp attack by JeM cadres later that year, adding to India’s growing annoyance. Hydrological data sharing stopped amid reports of diversion of Brahmaputra river waters. The 73-day stand-off at Doklam last year and accompanying rhetoric reflected a marked downturn. India responded through all this by voicing skepticism regarding Mr. Xi’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), stepping up maritime engagement with the U.S. and Japan and reviving the Quad (with Australia) in Manila last year.

    Both leaders soon realized the risks of the downward spiral of confrontation and were pragmatic enough to understand the need to restore a degree of balance to the relationship. Mr. Xi had emerged stronger after the 19th Communist Party Congress and the decision by the Central Committee to remove the restriction of two terms for a President made it clear that he would continue beyond 2023.

    Significant messages were carried by Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Politburo member Yang Jiechi last December during their visits to Delhi. Follow-up visits to Beijing by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman earlier this year prepared the ground for the informal summit meeting in Wuhan last month. The leak of the government circular advising officials to stay away from events commemorating 60 years of Dalai Lama’s exile in India and declining Australia’s suggestion to participate in Malabar naval exercises indicated Indian interest in a reset.

    The Wuhan summit was projected as ‘informal’ (something the Chinese have engaged in with U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump), without an agenda. Over two days, the two leaders met for 10 hours, four times one-on-one and twice with their delegations. Instead of a customary Joint Statement, there were separate briefings by Mr. Gokhale and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou indicating the key takeaways. It is clear that messages have gone out to the Army to improve communications and understanding and prevent the stand-offs that were becoming frequent. Both sides have agreed to undertake a joint project in Afghanistan. No softening of Chinese position on the NSG or India’s reservations on the BRI was visible though these issues would have figured in the discussions. However, with three more meetings likely during the SCO, G-20 and BRICS summits later this year, it is clear that there is an effort to bring the relationship on track.

    Rebuilding trust with Nepal

    A similar exercise appears to be under way with Nepal. Mr. Modi’s visit in 2014 had generated considerable goodwill but subsequent decisions queered the pitch. India’s public display of unhappiness with Nepal’s new Constitution and support for the Madhesi cause created ill-will. The economic impact caused by the disruption of supplies of essential items such as liquefied petroleum gas, petroleum products and medicines fed the anti-Indian sentiment which K.P. Oli effectively exploited to score a decisive electoral victory late last year. Clearly, Delhi was disappointed with the election outcome but decided that the relationship with Nepal was too important to let past misunderstandings fester. A new beginning was necessary.

    A couple of phone calls between Mr. Modi and Mr. Oli followed in December-January and Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj was in Kathmandu even before Mr. Oli was sworn in as Prime Minister to convey congratulations and an invitation from Mr. Modi to visit India. Mr. Oli responded positively, and much was made of the fact that in keeping with tradition, he made Delhi his first foreign destination last month. A surprise one-on-one meeting with Mr. Modi on the first day provided the two leaders an opportunity to clear the air about the past and rebuild a degree of trust.

    A return visit by Mr. Modi to Nepal within a month (on May 11-12) indicates that both sides are keen to show positive movement. Expectations are being kept low key, but the optics of positive messaging are evident. Included in the itinerary are a visit to Janakpur to offer prayers at Janaki Mandir and a public address which will announce the inauguration of the Ramayana pilgrimage circuit linking Ayodhya and Janakpur. The same idea had been shot down earlier when the Nepali authorities had cited ‘security issues’. In addition, Mr. Modi will visit Muktinath and the pension paying office at Pokhara, highlighting the historical, cultural and religious ties between the peoples of the two countries. Undoubtedly, the fact that he begins his visit to Nepal by landing in Janakpur, capital of the sole Madhes-ruled province will give comfort to the Madhesi community, but Mr. Modi realizes that his challenge is to repair ties with the wider Nepali community.

    The Pakistan challenge

    With Pakistan, after the opening when the then Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, visited Delhi in 2014 and Mr. Modi dropped in to have tea with him in Lahore in December 2015, relations stalled in 2016 following the Pathankot and Uri attacks. Firing across the Line of Control (LoC) has intensified leading to higher casualties on both sides, both civilian and military. In September 2016, India launched ‘surgical strikes’ as retaliation for the Uri attack but this has not reduced infiltration. Since Burhan Wani’s death, local recruitment by radical groups is also on the rise. India has successfully stalled the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit since 2016 and Mr. Trump’s tweets criticizing Pakistan have given Delhi satisfaction. But limits to the policy of isolating Pakistan are also apparent.

    Elections are likely in July and the Army would prefer to keep Mr. Sharif’s PML(N) out of power. Mr. Sharif’s dismissal and disqualification for life from politics by the Supreme Court makes it clear that the Army is determined to control the political transition. Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa has, on more than one occasion, emphasized the need for improving relations with both India and Afghanistan.

    The resumption of the stalled Track II Neemrana Dialogue last month in Islamabad indicates that a shift may be likely. Pakistan realizes that the time frame for a shift is limited before India goes into election mode. The question is whether Gen. Bajwa can make good on his suggestion by showing forward movement on the issues flagged by India — curbing the Lashkar-e-Toiba and JeM, the Kulbushan Jadhav and 26/11 trials, etc. Faced with a similar situation, Gen. Pervez Musharraf had gone in for a unilateral ceasefire on the LoC in 2003. The guns fell silent, tensions were defused, and Pakistan hosted the SAARC summit in 2004.

    A change in the Pakistan policy may well be the reset to enable Mr. Modi to reclaim his ‘neighborhood first’ policy.

    (The author is a former diplomat and is presently Distinguished Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation. E-mail: rakeshsood2001@yahoo.com)

     

  • Immigrant-Bashing Helps MS-13

    Immigrant-Bashing Helps MS-13

    By Tom Suozzi

    “The president’s inflammatory rhetoric is counterproductive to the goal that we the people, including new arrivals in America, seek—to live in peace, security and happiness and to eradicate MS-13”, says the author.

    I applaud President Trump’s mission to combat MS-13. The gang must be disrupted, dismantled and defeated. There should never be any disagreement about that, and presidential involvement is incredibly beneficial.

    MS-13 members are ruthless and depraved. The gang models itself on organized crime syndicates throughout history. It is a murderous and destructive force in too many good communities across America, including Long Island, where I’m from.

    But Mr. Trump’s failure to distinguish properly between MS-13 members and other immigrants, along with his divisive, discriminatory language, particularly against immigrants from Latin America, hampers efforts to rid our communities of MS-13. The president’s inflammatory rhetoric is counterproductive to the goal that we the people, including new arrivals in America, seek—to live in peace, security and happiness and to eradicate MS-13.

    During my tenure as mayor of Glen Cove, N.Y., we enjoyed the lowest crime rate of any community with more than 20,000 people on Long Island. My city is a mashup of immigrants and multigenerational families. We achieved public safety and harmony by relying on two fundamental American credos.

    First, all men and women are created equal. Not “all men and women with U.S. passports or green cards.” All human beings are entitled to the same respect and dignity. Issues from public safety to immigration reform cannot become an excuse for racism or other forms of discrimination.

    The second credo is “all men and women are equal under the eyes of the law.” If you live in America, whether you are a newcomer or a descendant of the Pilgrims, you must obey the law.

    And that’s where our 45th president’s words and actions become problematic. To protect those who obey the law, and to take down those who break it, particularly members of MS-13, community policing is central.

    The key to community policing is a healthy, respectful and productive relationship between police officers and the community they are sworn to serve and protect. Mr. Trump’s approach—his sweeping rhetoric that lumps all immigrants together, his proposal to curtail legal immigration drastically, his failure to support a bipartisan permanent fix for beneficiaries of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, his elimination of temporary protection status safeguards—amounts to a war on immigrants, a war far beyond MS-13, which has a chilling effect on police-community relations with Latinos in America.

    Police must be able to work with law-abiding people to identify MS-13 members and movements in their communities. While overseeing police departments as Glen Cove mayor and Nassau County executive, I saw community-policing stop MS-13 in its tracks. During my time as executive, Nassau was the safest county of more than 500,000 inhabitants in the U.S.

    In contrast, when people are afraid to cooperate with the police because of Mr. Trump’s words and his administration’s crackdown on Latino immigrants, local leaders in the fight against MS-13 are pushed into the shadows. It’s a tragedy when people are afraid of the police and of government in general—afraid of reprisal from the officials every American relies on for protection.

    My grandfather and father were immigrants from Italy. As a first-generation American, I could not be prouder or more inspired by their success as newcomers to this great nation. I am also keenly aware of how the criminal actions of a sliver of Italian immigrants were once used to disparage and deny opportunity to all Italian newcomers to America in the first half of the 20th century.

    We cannot make the same mistakes by equating MS-13 with law-abiding immigrants from Latin America. Sadly, Mr. Trump—on a near daily basis—careens down this dangerous and destructive path. The president should put divisive language aside, support law-abiding immigrants, and make community policing more effective. And then he needs to be open to common-sense solutions for the DACA crisis and for comprehensive immigration reform.

    (Mr. Suozzi, a Democrat, represents New York’s Third Congressional District)

  • Along the Borders

    Along the Borders

    By Mini Kapoor

    Unmindful, or perhaps too mindful, of the date, the U.S. inaugurated its new embassy building in Jerusalem last week, on May 14. Proceeding ahead full steam to shift its diplomatic mission in Israel from Tel Aviv to the disputed city, Washington sent Ivanka Trump to point proudly to the shiny plaque that had her father, U.S. President Donald Trump’s name in inordinately large font. The timing was significant as it was the eve of Nakba Day, on which Palestinians mark the forced exodus 70 years ago of hundreds of thousands from their homes in what became the state of Israel in 1948. Just a few miles away, thousands of residents of Gaza had surged in protest towards the barrier that marks the border with Israel — Israeli forces fired at the crowd, killing at least 60 Palestinians.

    The way borders operate

    In that overlay of cheer at the new embassy in Jerusalem and the bloodshed in Gaza could be found the different ways in which borders are heeded. Jerusalem is not just a disputed city, it was divided by the Green Line till the Six-Day War of 1967, when Israeli forces occupied East Jerusalem, where crucially some of the holiest sites of Judaism, Islam and Christianity are. Palestinians are firm that East Jerusalem be the capital of their state in the much recommended two-state solution. Many Israelis make a distinction between the West Bank and Gaza territories on the one hand and East Jerusalem on the other, contending that the city is an organic whole. The inauguration was a challenge to that old border. In Gaza, the barrier put up by Israel with inhumanely stern procedures to get past the checkpoints, and with the supplies of essential commodities so easily blocked in difficult times, the violence highlighted that fact that borders operate to the dictate of the militarily stronger party.

    The Israeli wall — or security barrier or separation barrier as it’s variously called, depending on your politics — is among the most contentious and photographed physical demarcations of a boundary, whether imposed or mutually agreed upon. In a new book Divided, Tim Marshall, a British journalist and writer, explains the theme in the subtitle: Why We’re Living in an Age of Walls. The data bear him out: “At least sixty-five countries, more than a third of the world’s nation states, have built barriers along their borders; half of those erected since the Second World War sprang up between 2000 and now. Within a few years, the European nations could have more miles of walls, fences and barriers on their borders than they were at the height of the Cold War.”

    Marshall’s analysis

    His analysis is sometimes unsatisfying, as he tries to see each wall (though in most parts they are not concrete walls, but fences, concertina wire, etc.) from the viewpoint of those who erect it as well as those it seeks to keep out, and the space is too limited for local nuances to be explored enough in this around-the-world tour. That equation in itself is a comment on the 21st century world, but Marshall’s tour of the great man-made barriers of today is instructive. Of course, he lingers at the Israeli wall — though as he points out, just 3% of the separation barrier is concrete. Other numbers are startling too: if the line drawn by the wall becomes a new fact on the ground, in a two-state solution, Palestinians would lose “at least 10 per cent of the West Bank land, as the wall’s current position lies well inside Palestinian land”. He describes the disparity in the checks that, say, Israeli settlers and Palestinian residents undergo, or those at the Palestinian end of the checkpoint and the Israeli. He explores the security dividend that’s accrued to Israel on account of the wall, and he also visits British graffiti artist Banksy’s Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem overlooking, well, the wall.

    Around the world

    Marshall roams the globe, looking at “the longest border fence in the world” on the India-Bangladesh border, and also the issues of ethnicity, religion and humanitarian plight around the flight of the Rohingya from Myanmar to Bangladesh in the most fraught conditions to cross international boundaries. He looks at the wall Iran has built along its border with Pakistan. He describes the 1,700-mile Moroccan wall through Western Sahara. There’s the wall Trump wants to build/reinforce on the U.S.-Mexico border, the walls Hungary started building on its border with Serbia and Croatia. And so on.

    And there is the memory of that wall in Berlin that came down. Marshall doesn’t see the probability of a border-less world any time soon. But for now, he sees an antidote in the “great halls” that have been and are being built “to meet, discuss and try to resolve our differences”. Call it the alphabet soup of our hopes: “The United Nations, the EU, the African Union, ASEAN, MERCOSUR, OPEC, NATO, the World Bank…” Keep adding.

    (The author is a columnist with The Hindu)

  • Celebrating the UK & India Special Relationship: Winners unveiled at The Indian Awards 2018 held in the Houses of Parliament

    Celebrating the UK & India Special Relationship: Winners unveiled at The Indian Awards 2018 held in the Houses of Parliament

    LONDON(TIP): The second Indian Awards, organised by the India Business Group (IBG), a leading business advisory consultancy took place last night (17thMay) in the Palace of Westminster.

    The awards, attended by UK Home Secretary, Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP, recognise UK-­‐based individuals, businesses and organisations that have contributed to furthering the relationship culturally, socially or economically, between India and the UK.

    The Awards were founded by Amarjit Singh,Chief Executive Officer of the India BusinessGroup (IBG), an established thought leader on UK -­‐ India business affairs and Special Advisorfor India to the University of Southampton.

    The UK Home Secretary, Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP said:

    “As Home Secretary, I am delighted to be able to attend the 2018 Indian Awards ceremony, which recognises outstanding contributions to the UK-­‐India relationship. The UK is one of the world’s oldest democracies, and India the largest. Our collaboration is a force for good – our shared values magnified by the ‘living bridge’ formed of a breadth of personal, professional, cultural and institutional ties. With so much in common, it’s only natural that Britain and India continue working together to make our people, and the world, safer and more prosperous”.

    H.E. Mr Y.K. Sinha, The High Commissioner of India said:

    “Commencing last year, The Indian Awards recognises and celebrates the outstanding workdone by individuals, businesses and organisations in the UK, who have contributed to strengthening the UK-­‐India partnership in recent years.I had the pleasure of presenting the Special Recognition Award to the former Prime Minister David Cameron last year. I would like to extend my best wishes for the second edition of these Awards.”

    Following last month’s successful UK visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the gala invitation-­‐only dinner and ceremony featured senior business leaders, Government officials, opinion formers and prominent members of the Indian community and guests from India and other parts of the World. Nominations were invited by members of the public and the handful of winners were chosen by a panel of esteemed judges and announced on the evening.

    The UK’s International Trade Secretary, The Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox MP said:

    “India is the world’s seventh-­‐largest economy and the fourth largest investor into the UK, while UK investment in India grew by 8.8% in the year to 2016. As an international economic department, the Department for International Trade continues to work closely with our Indiancolleagues to maximise trade between our nations and I welcome this fantastic initiative, celebrating the historic trading ties between the UK and India.”

    The Awards ceremony was supported by a range of high profile partners, including Associated British Ports,Heathrow Airport,Invest India, the Institute of Directors Hampshire Cricket,the Lalit Hotel,Niine and Star TV Networks was the official media partner. The awards werealso supported by Indus Net Techshu, Chivas Brothers, HCL, Here&Now365 and Taylor Wessing.

    The esteemed judging panel was made of up senior figures, including: Lord Patel of Bradford OBE, Chair of IBG, Virendra Sharma MP, Chair of the Indo-­‐British APPG, Baroness Prashar CBE, Deputy Chair of the British Council, Rajiv Luthra, Founder and Managing Partner of Luthra & Luthra Law Advocates, Dr Catherine Raines, Former Director General of Department for International Trade, and Alan Fitzwater, Director of Regional Engagement at the Institute of Directors.

    The Rt Hon Mark Field MP, FCO Minister of State for Asia said:

    “As the Minister for Asia, I am delighted that the Indian Awards ceremony is happening again this year to recognise outstanding contributions to the UK-­‐India relationship. While there is plenty in our shared culture that binds us closely together, what excites me is the relationship we can forge for the future, in technology, in tackling the many global challenges we face. Working together, the UK and India can be a powerful force for good in the world.”

    The Special Recognition Award which applauds ‘an individual’s outstanding commitment to building UK-­‐India relations’ was presented to Dr Rami Ranger CBE, Chairman of Sun MarkLimited.

    On receiving the award, Dr Ranger said:“It is a great honour to receive this special recognitionaward from the India Business Group. I am grateful to the judges who considered me worthy of this accolade. I am privileged to receive the award as last year the same recognition was bestowed upon my hero, the Former Prime Minster of the UK, The Rt. Hon. David Cameron. This award also represents India’s emerging stature and standing in the world as a positive economic and political force. The partnership between India and Britain is based on similar values and as a result, it will go from strength to strength”.

    “The India Business Group is delighted to present the second Indian Awards initiative,” says Mr Singh. “The modern relationship between the UK and India is at a key juncture. Through The Indian Awards, we aim to inspire and encourage the next generation of UK and Indian entrepreneurs, facilitators and bridge builders who will take the bilateral relationship to greater heights.”

    THE FULL LIST OF WINNERS:

    1. Larger Business Award -­Rolls-­Royce PLC

      Larger Business Award -­Rolls-­Royce PLC
    2. SME Award -­ EnergyPro Limited
      SME Award -­ EnergyPro Limited

       

    3. Professional Adviser Award -­ Deepak Lalwani OBE, Founder and Chairman of LalcapLimited

      Professional Adviser Award -­ Deepak Lalwani OBE, Founder and Chairman of Lalcap Limited
    4. Entrepreneur Award -­ Alpesh Patel, Founder of Praefinium Partners

      Entrepreneur Award -­ Alpesh Patel, Founder of Praefinium Partner
    5. Arts & Culture Award-­ Gurinder Chadha OBE

      Arts & Culture Award -­ Gurinder Chadha OBE
    6. Special Recognition Award -­ Dr Rami Ranger CBE, Chairman of Sun Mark Limited

      Special Recognition Award -­ Dr Rami Ranger CBE, Chairman of Sun Mark Limited

    Professor, The Lord Patel of Bradford OBE, Chairman of India Business Group said:

    “This special initiative celebrates, for the first time, the efforts of outstanding organisations and individuals (based in the UK) who have worked over the years to strengthen the bond between the UK and India. This influential awards ceremony is a timely reminder about the mutually beneficial, evolving and special relationship between our two great nations.”

    Lord Deighton KBE, Chairman of Heathrow Airport, one of the partner organisations for the awards said:

    “Heathrow is the UK’s gateway to India with more connections to the country than any other UK airport. It plays a key role in maintaining Britain’s links to India with flights to six destinations, carrying 2.5 million passengers and more than 127,000 metric tonnes of cargo to and from the country via Heathrow last year alone. We’re proud to be attending the India Business Group Awards, recognising the groups and individuals who have contributed to strengthening the UK-­‐India partnership. Having recently received India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in April, we understand the important role that India plays in the UK’s economy and are working to see that grow.”

    Virendra Sharma MP, Chair of the Indo -­‐ British APPG

    “The Indian Awards is an important UK wide initiative for recognising entrepreneurs, inspirational people and organisations that have championed international cooperation between the UK and India. This is an opportune moment to celebrate the dynamic UK-­‐India partnership”.

    Stephen Martin, Director General of the Institute of Directors, one of the partner organisations for the awards said:

    “The IoD is delighted to have participated in The Indian Awards, particularly at a time when the UK needs to turn its idea of “Global Britain” into a tangible reality. Growing business and trade links between our two countries is essential as we prepare to exit the European Union.”

    The India Business Group (IBG) is a leading advisory consultancy that specialises in helping organisations develop bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the UK and India markets. It is globally recognised as having specialist expertise and regional know-­‐how designed to support organisations with market entry and cross border business transactions.http://www.theindiabusinessgroup.com/site/about/about-­ibg/

    The Indian Awards comprise a handful of six elite awards, with the following categories to the awards: larger business (annual turnover greater than £100m); SME business (annual turnover up to £100m); individual entrepreneur award, professional adviser; arts and culture and special recognition. http://www.theindianawards.com

    The IBG is delighted to be supporting the Niine Movement, an ambitious India based initiative aimed at raising awareness of menstrual hygiene: http://www.niine.com

    For further information, contact:

    Amarjit Singh, Chief Executive Officer -­‐ India Business Group: 0844 313 3133 or email: a.singh@theindiabusinessgroup.com

    (British English)

  • Edenwald YMCA Community and Wellness Facility Completes City’s Public Approval Process

    Edenwald YMCA Community and Wellness Facility Completes City’s Public Approval Process

    YMCA will create 100 permanent jobs and include two pools, a full basketball court, and programming for New Yorkers of all ages

    NEW YORK CITY, NY(TIP): New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) announced, May 24, that the Edenwald YMCA community and wellness facility has officially completed the City’s Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), allowing the project to move forward into the construction phase this fall. Following unanimous support by Bronx Community Board 12, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., and the City Planning Commission, the project was approved by the City Council.

    The 50,000 square-foot state-of the-art center will provide local families and residents of all ages and income levels with a full-service facility that will include two pools, a full-length basketball court, a gymnasium, and other programming. The center will also provide after-school care and summer camps, health and wellness improvement classes, and activities to strengthen the community, including senior adult programs and civic classes for new Americans.  The YMCA was selected in July 2016 to develop and operate a recreation center.

    “All New Yorkers should have access to first-class recreation space, no matter where in the city they live,” said NYCEDC President and CEO James Patchett. “The unanimous approval of the Edenwald YMCA will bring much-needed athletic facilities, wellness and after-school programming to Bronx residents, making the neighborhood both healthier and stronger. The YMCA will benefit community members of all ages, and I look forward to its opening.”

    “The YMCA is here for all New Yorkers, to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community,” said Sharon Greenberger, President & CEO of the YMCA of Greater New York. “This new Y will act as a true center of community in the Northeast Bronx. We are grateful to have this opportunity to work with local elected officials and community leaders to bring this project to fruition and to help more people in the Bronx learn, grow, and thrive.”

  • NYC to Expand Network of Electric Vehicle Chargers, Use New Technology to Charge Cars in as Little as 15 Minutes

    NYC to Expand Network of Electric Vehicle Chargers, Use New Technology to Charge Cars in as Little as 15 Minutes

    NEW YORK CITY, NY(TIP): The New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) will today announce a planned major expansion of the City’s network of electric vehicle (EV) chargers. The City currently operates 500 EV chargers, which are used to charge City government vehicles. It is the largest network of EV chargers for any vehicle fleet in the country, and the City expects to add 100 new chargers. The new chargers will also be the City’s first ‘fast electric vehicle chargers,’ which will keep electric vehicles in continuous use by reducing lengthy charging periods that can take vehicles out of commission. The new chargers can charge vehicles in as little as 15 minutes. Most of these new chargers will be located at existing City-managed fueling locations. This project is expected to be funded by $10 million from the City’s proposed capital budget with construction to begin early next year. The EV expansion is part of a series of announcements to be made today at the City’s 30th Annual Truck and Equipment Show presented by the NYC Parks Department and DCAS at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

    “New York City government has the cleanest and greenest vehicle fleet in the country, and we’re building upon our success by installing 100 new electric vehicle chargers that will significantly decrease charging times,” said Lisette Camilo, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services. “In as little as 15 minutes, we’ll be able to charge environmentally-friendly electric vehicles and get them back on the streets serving the people of New York City.”

    Construction of 50 new solar carports. Solar carports capture solar energy to fully charge EVs without any connection to the electric grid. In addition to environmental benefits, the solar carports offer an important resiliency measure if the City were to lose power and need to charge EVs. The City currently operates 37 carports that were put into operation over the last six months.

    The City of New York has installed over 12,000 new safety features on City vehicles in the first year of the Vision Zero Safe Fleet Transition Plan. The plan, part of Mayor de Blasio’s Vision Zero initiative to protect the public by reducing injuries and fatalities stemming from traffic collisions, formalized best practices to integrate vehicle safety technologies into City vehicles. Installed safety features include automatic braking systems, rear-view cameras, sideguards that prevent pedestrians and bicyclists from going under large trucks during side-impact collisions, and adaptive headlights, among other technologies.

    These advances in greener and safer vehicle technologies are part of record investments in the specialized emergency and heavy fleet units that support NYC government operations. In FY18, over $380 million has been invested in new City fleet vehicles, including 662 sanitation trucks for the City of New York Department of Sanitation. This is the third consecutive year of record investments in the fleet that supports City government agencies. This includes $1.1 billion invested in the last three years alone.

    “NYC is one of the nation’s largest procurers of safe and sustainable fleet technology,” said DCAS Deputy Commissioner and NYC Chief Fleet Officer Keith Kerman. “At today’s 30th Fleet Show, we celebrate our latest milestones including 1,500 electric vehicles, our first contract for hybrid police vehicles, expanding electric charging, and the safest fleet we have ever ordered. We thank our partner agencies and our vendors at the show.”

    The Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) ensures that all City agencies have the critical resources and support needed to provide the best possible services to the public. It does this in part by working with City agencies on recruiting, hiring, and training; providing facilities management for 55 public buildings; purchasing, selling, and leasing City property; purchasing more than $1 billion in supplies and equipment annually; and implementing conservation and safety programs throughout they City’s facilities and fleet.

  • Weekly Horoscope May 28 to June 3, 2018

    Weekly Horoscope May 28 to June 3, 2018

    Aries: Emotions continue to run high. You are traipsing an electric wire, ready to snap. Nothing works out your way completely and several compromises will have to be made in all your dealings. Sometimes, you feel defeated but Ganesha advises you to just hang in there and wait patiently for the tide to change. You do spend time at work and at home solving various domestic issues, but you are not all there.

    Taurus: You make a conscious effort to handle the situation that is slowly getting out of hand. This results in dividends, and a type of parity is restored in your affairs. There are splendid opportunities for advancement and this is a good time to strike. There is money to be made and new ventures waiting to be started. You are looking at achievements and recognition. You identify areas of potential growth and go for it.

    Gemini: The hard work phase continues. You do well and earn plaudits from your peer group. You are moving ahead uncompromisingly and are meeting all your targets and schedules. There are expenses, wining and dining and affairs of the heart. You could be embroiled in an office affair and this disturbs the peace. You are much more alert, lively and healthy and filled with new found zeal. You are driven to make a success of your life and your hormones are also flying off in different directions.

    Cancer: A lot of quality time will be spent with family and friends in this period. There could be weddings, engagements and other family functions to attend. While a lot of time is spent with family, I must hasten to add here that it may not all be happy. There could be illnesses and some strife in the form of divorce or some problem in an alimony suit. You will either be the mediator or one of the parties needing help; any which way you will be in the thick of it.

    Leo: There is sharpness in your life, an edge that was never there. You realize that you have been procrastinating and postponing the settlement of various pending issues in your life. So, this period, you try to set your house in order. Friends and new and old romances show up, but you are preoccupied with the nitty gritty. Your life is on the verge of an upheaval and if you don’t plug the corners now, it may just be too late. So, you go about cleaning the stables with single-mindedness.

    Virgo: A lot is happening in your life now. You are in the edge of many cross-currents and will participate in all kinds of social activities. You feel wanted, cherished and loved. You realize that you are really popular and don’t have to be the lone wolf any more. You don’t have to carry the cross and chafe your shoulders. You are publicly feted and are the cynosure of all eyes. You feel blessed, loved, humbled and feel at peace and in gratitude to existence for making this happen.

    Libra: No full lasts long, and work calls. You’ll get back to business and profession in a really big way now. Work is on an upward swing and you will be actively involved in new business enterprises and undertakings. You make good money and will feel secure. There will be travel too. Collaborations, purchases, comforts, luxuries and vestiges of the good life infuse you with fresh enthusiasm. You display awesome stamina and can move mountains during this period.

    Scorpio: You continue with a scintillating performance and consolidate your gains. There will be expenses and a hectic social life. Family ties will be strengthened, and you will be busy renovating, redecorating and refurbishing. You will be the center of attraction at family gatherings and you will enjoy it. Your interactions will be stronger and more meaningful, and life will acquire a pleasant hue.

    Sagittarius: This can be a period of new beginnings both at home and at work. You will make money and also spend it. Lending / borrowing, funds, capital-raising, loans, stocks, realty and buying and selling will occupy your time. This is the tie to plan and strategies for the coming period. There are many new openings on the anvil and a lot depends on how you optimize the chances that come your way. This can be a very profitable phase and it all depends on how you cash in on it.

    Capricorn: You spend time helping the poor and the downtrodden. You visit old people’s homes, hospitals, hospices, shelters, half-way homes and other such institutions and help out with cash and kind. You have great empathy for the underdog and frequently take this route. Even if you don’t have the resources to do this you spend time helping out family members, friends, colleagues and others in distress. You feel god about it and the world is a better place thanks to souls like you.

    Aquarius: You scatter your energies and they don’t result in much. Money comes in through one hand and goes out with ease through the other. You while away time merrymaking and hanging out with friends as though you have no care in the world. Momentarily, at least, your life has lost direction. You look for approval, but it isn’t forthcoming. You are told in no uncertain terms, by friends and family that you need to get your act together, and fast. You value their opinion and make amends.

    Pisces: The period sees a thread of intensity in all your dealings. You are pushing ahead without stops with a new resolve and ambition. You are confident and charismatic, full of magnetism and drive. Your popularity soars and all that you embark on or consolidate leads to success. You don’t have much time for the family now, but work and its rewards are appetizing. Ganesha sees you turbo charged as you successfully accomplish one task after another.

  • New York International Punjabi Society organizes Vaisakhi Celebrations and Awards Gala Dinner

    New York International Punjabi Society organizes Vaisakhi Celebrations and Awards Gala Dinner

    HICKSVILLE, NY(TIP): New York International Punjabi Society, Inc. held Vaisakhi Celebrations and Awards gala dinner, May 18 at Antun’s in Hicksville.

    Prominent Punjabis were honored for their contribution in various fields. The honorees included Dr. Urmilesh Arya (Community Appreciation Award); Sant Singh Chatwal (Punjabi Icon of the Year); Harry Singh Bolla (Punjabi Entrepreneur of the Year); Saleem Iqbal (Community Appreciation Award); and Mohinder Singh Taneja (Ambassador of Diversity Award).

    Harry Singh Bolla and Mrs. Bolla receiving award from Tom Suozzi and NYIPS President Dr. Uppal.
    Mohinder Taneja receiving the award. Seen in the picture, from L to R: Jagjit Singh Bedi, Mohinder Taneja, Joseph Saladino, Tom Suozzi, Laura Curran, Dr. Uppal, Paul Kandhari

    Present on the occasion, besides community, were Congressman Tom Suozzi, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, and Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, among others.

    A lighter moment
    A group photo of the occasion

    An attractive cultural program and a delicious feast added to the pleasure of the gathering.

    Here are some pictures of the occasion.

  • Assembly Passes Weprin Anti-Hazing Bill-Legislation prompted by death of Baruch College student

    Assembly Passes Weprin Anti-Hazing Bill-Legislation prompted by death of Baruch College student

    ALBANY, NEW YORK(TIP):  Assemblyman David I. Weprin (D – Fresh Meadows, Richmond Hill) announced passage of legislation prohibiting physical contact or activity in any organization’s initiating ceremony. Introduced in 2014, after the hazing death of Michael Deng at Baruch College, A5200 aims to decrease the amount of dangerous hazing incidents that occur in New York each year.

    Deng, who was pledging the Baruch College chapter of Pi Delta Psi when he died during a December 2013 fraternity retreat at a house in Pennsylvania, was subjected to a hazing ritual known as ‘glass ceiling’, in which he suffered a massive head injury after he was blindfolded and forced to lug a knapsack loaded with 20 pounds of sand as fraternity members repeatedly took him down.

    Passage of Weprin’s bill follows a November 2017 Pennsylvania court ruling finding Pi Delta Psi Inc. guilty of involuntary manslaughter, hazing, and aggravated assault, as well as the January 2018 sentencing of 4 of 37 individuals charged with aggravated assault, hazing and murder in Pennsylvania after Deng’s death.

    “The best way for us to prevent hazing is to ensure that no student is ever put in a situation where their safety is in jeopardy,” said Assemblyman David I. Weprin. “By prohibiting reckless physical conduct and physical activities during initiation ceremonies, we can protect students and other individuals from the substantial risks caused by hazing. There is no better way to honor the death of Michael Deng, one of my constituents, by ensuring that this will never happen to another student again.”

  • Mondello steps down

    Mondello steps down

    HICKSVILLE, NY(TIP): An era ended with the resignation of Joseph Mondello, who has chaired the Nassau County Republican Party for the past 35 years.

    Although his announcement cites a desire to spend more time with his wife, kids and grandkids as the reason for stepping down, Mondello, 72, is up for an ambassadorship to Trinidad and Tobago, and has long been expected to give up the chairmanship.

    He went out with one last salute to his allies and a final barb to his antagonists in the media. “No matter what the future holds, or where that future takes me a big part of me will always be here – at 164 Post Avenue – where so much history was made – and no matter what the media says – so much good was done for the people of Nassau County,” he said in a statement.

    What now for the future of the Nassau County Republican Party and its leadership? The county committee is expected to meet Thursday and a vote on leadership could come then. But in some ways, the future is as uncertain as it was when Mondello took over after the conviction of his predecessor, the late Joseph Margiotta, on extortion and mail fraud charges.

  • Border Patrol agent kills migrant near Texas-Mexico line

    Authorities said the agent opened fire after he came under attack by a group of migrants, but a witness disputed that account.

    DALLAS(TIP): A U.S. Border Patrol agent shot and killed a migrant near the Mexican border in Texas, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Thursday, May 24.

    The agent was responding at about 12:30 p.m. (1:30 p.m. ET) Wednesday, May 23, to a report of “illegal activity” near a culvert in Rio Bravo, in Webb County about 10 miles south of Laredo, when he encountered a group of migrants, according to Customs and Border Protection.

    “Initial reports indicate that as the agent attempted to apprehend the group, he came under attack by multiple subjects using blunt objects,” the agency said in a statement.

    The agent fired at least one round and fatally shot one of the migrants, according to the agency, which said three people whom it described as “illegal aliens” were arrested. It didn’t identify the officer or the shooting victim.

    Marta Martinez, who lives near the scene, said that she heard the shot and began recording video on her cellphone. She told NBC affiliate KGNS of Laredo that the victim was a young woman.

    In the video, which Martinez posted to Facebook, people in uniform can be heard yelling, apparently at the migrants, “See what happens?” and “See what you caused?”

    Martinez said she was shocked by the events.

    “They come here to the United States to live the American dream,” she told KGNS. “So, there’s no American dream right there. She died right there on the scene.”

    The FBI and the Texas Rangers are investigating, Customs and Border Protection said. Authorities scheduled a news conference for Friday, May 25.

    The shooting comes as President Donald Trump has been ramping up his rhetoric about illegal immigration. In a speech last week in Washington, the president referred to some people who cross the border illegally as “animals.”

    (Source: KGNS)

  • First step into the new building of Swaminarayan Gurukul USA, Plano-Dallas

    First step into the new building of Swaminarayan Gurukul USA, Plano-Dallas

    DALLAS (TIP): On the auspicious day of Akshaytrutiya, holy saints performed first mahapuja and thal in the new magnificent facility of Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul USA located in Plano, Texas, USA.

    This new 32-acre campus boasts the beautiful temple with the idols of Lord Shree Swaminarayan, Shree Radhakrushn dev, Shree Sita-Ramji, Shree Venketeshwar Balaji, Shree Siddheshvar Mahadev, Shree Vighnvinayak Ganapatiji, and Shree Kashtbhanjan Hanumanji.

    Campus also includes cultural and education classes for kids, function hall for social events, exhibition on Vaidik Sanskruti, and residential facilities for the guests. This beautiful campus has in-built natural surroundings with lake, river and wooded areas. Its serene environment provides tranquility and relaxation to all of its visitors. Thousands of families living near-by will greatly benefit from it. This place will provide spiritual and cultural guidance to persons of every age. For kids, there will be cultural and spiritual classes during the weekends. It will act as a bridge for Indian descendant kids to connect with their rich Indian heritage.

    This new temple’s Murti Pratishtha Mahotsav will be celebrated with great zeal and devotion from August 11th to 19th. More than 30 saints and 5000 devotees will arrive to take part in this once in a lifetime opportunity in the divine presence of His Holiness Sadguru Guruvarya Shree Devkrushnadasji Swami. Various spiritual and community programs like 25 Kundi Mahavishnu yag based on Vaidik rituals, 1008 Mahapuja, discourses on Shrimad Satsangijivan, special discourses on various topics by scholarly saints, 51-hour Swaminarayan mantralekhan and dhoon, cultural programs by kids, youth and women devotees, health camp, blood donation etc. are organized during this event.

  • No immigration deal unless ‘real wall’

    No immigration deal unless ‘real wall’

    WASHINGTON(TIP): President Donald Trump said May 24 he opposes any immigration legislation that doesn’t include “a real wall” along the Mexican border and “very strong border security.”  Moderates House Republicans are pushing a deal that could lead to citizenship for young “Dreamer” immigrants brought to the US illegally. But Trump told “Fox & Friends” that unless any bill “includes a wall, and I mean a wall, a real wall, and unless it includes very strong border security, there’ll be no approvals from me.”

    (Source / PTI)

  • NYPD gets first female turbaned Sikh auxiliary police officer

    NYPD gets first female turbaned Sikh auxiliary police officer

    NEW YORK (TIP): The New York Police Department (NYPD) has got its first female turbaned Sikh auxiliary police officer, whose induction aims to motivate others to join law enforcement and help create better understanding of Sikhism.

    Gursoach Kaur will join the New York Police Department as an Auxiliary Police Officer (APO), after having graduated last week from the New York City Police Academy.

    “We are proud to welcome first Sikh turbaned female Auxiliary Police Officer in the New York Police Department. APO Gursoach Kaur and other Auxiliary Police Officers graduated from the academy. We are proud of you. Stay safe. #sikhsinlawenforcement,” the Sikh Officers Association tweeted.

    Sikh Officers Assoc.

    @SikhOfficers

     We are proud to welcome first #Sikh Turbaned female Auxiliary Police Officer in the @NYPDnews. APO Gursoach Kaur and other Auxiliary Police Officers graduated from the Academy. We are proud of you. Stay safe. #sikhsinlawenforcement

    The association said in a Facebook post that it is “proud” to welcome Kaur to the Police Department.

    “Your service will be a motivation for others to join the Law enforcement Family,” it said.

    The association is the nation’s first organization to represent Sikh Officers in Law Enforcement.

    Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri also tweeted about Kaur, expressing hope that a turbaned lady officer will help create better understanding of Sikhism in the US.

    @HardeepSPuri

     Follow @HardeepSPuri

    Delighted to see a turbaned lady officer in NYPD. Hope this fosters better understanding of Sikhism & Sikhs & corrects perceptions in US so that incident which happened with me in 2010 & recently with @Canada minister @NavdeepSBains do not recur.

    Sikhs are ambassadors of harmony.

  • Europe’s landmark privacy law comes into force

    Europe’s landmark privacy law comes into force

    LONDON(TIP): The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on Friday, May 25, giving EU citizens new rights over how their personal data is used. It has been billed as the biggest shake-up of data privacy laws since the birth of the web

    The pan-EU law aims to give its citizens more rights to control over their online information. It has a list of technically demanding requirements, and threatens fines of up to 4% of a company’s annual revenue for serious infringements

    The law covers companies that collect large amounts of customer data, including Facebook and Google. It won’t be overseen by a single authority but instead by a patchwork of national and regional watchdogs across the 28-nation bloc

    The new privacy law (GDPR) seeks to harmonize the scattered data protection laws in the EU and envisages stringent penalties under it. It replaces the existing EC Data Protection Directive (95/46/EC). GDPR seeks to enhance the data privacy rights of users and imposes certain new responsibilities upon data controllers and processors.

    The new law endeavors to create a model for a data protection and privacy framework that will be able to keep pace with rapid advancements in technology. Most importantly, GDPR attempts to give back to individuals control over their personal data, while recognizing the protection of one’s personal data as a fundamental right. Here are some key elements of GDPR:

    New definition of personal data

    Under the GDPR, personal data is anything that relates to an identified or identifiable individual. For example: name, address, email address, location data or computer IP address. Sensitive data, such as religious beliefs, racial or ethnic origin, sexual orientation or trade union membership, are subject to extra protections.

    Higher penalties

    The GDPR foresees fines of 2 to 4 per cent of a company’s annual revenues or 20 million euros ($24 million), whichever is higher.

    Stricter rules on consent

    Companies will need to get freely given, specific, unambiguous and informed consent from individuals to process their data. They will also need users to opt in to the processing of their data – simply giving them an opt out will not be valid. In other words, companies will no longer be able to ask consumers to tick a box after a long set of terms and conditions that most people never read.

    Global scope

    The GDPR will apply to any company that has customers in the EU, whether the firm was established in the bloc or not.

    New rules for data processors

    The GDPR distinguishes between data “controllers” and data “processors”. A data controller determines why personal data must be collected and processed as well as how. A data processor only processes personal data on behalf of the controller and is usually a third-party company.

    For example: A retailer that hires a human resources company to handle payroll and other functions is the data controller, while the human resources company is the data processor.

    Under GDPR, data processors must guarantee the same standards as controllers and ensure they meet the requirements of the law. There must be a legal contract between a processor and a controller, and a processor may not engage another company to process data without the controller’s consent.

    Data breach notifications

    Companies must notify data protection authorities of data breaches within 72 hours of becoming aware of it, if it is likely to impact the rights of individuals. If the breach carries a high risk for individuals, then the company must notify the affected people without undue delay.

    One-stop shop

    The GDPR introduces a “one-stop shop” mechanism to make it easier for companies operating across the EU, for example Facebook, Google and Mastercard. Companies processing data across the bloc will have a lead authority in the country where they have their main establishment, for example Facebook in Ireland.

    The lead authority will be the main point of contact for the company and responsible for ensuring its compliance with GDPR. In cases involving citizens from several countries the lead authority will coordinate with other “concerned” authorities. If there are disputes between authorities, a new body, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB), can make binding decisions. — Reuters

    Lawfulness of data processing

    Companies processing personal data must ensure it is lawful, fair and transparent. They may not use data for purposes other than those for which it was collected, with limited exceptions. Data processing is lawful if:

    • An individual has consented to it
    • It is necessary for the performance of a contract
    • It is necessary to meet a legal obligation under EU or national law
    • It is necessary to protect the vital interests of an individual
    • It is necessary to carry out a task in the public interest under EU or national law
    • It is in the company’s legitimate interest, as long as it does not override an individual’s fundamental rights and freedoms
    • If a company collected data on the basis of consent, then it may not use it for other purposes

    Stronger rights for Europeans

    • People living in the European Union will get the right to:
    • Receive clear and understandable information about who is processing their data and why
    • Access data an organization holds about them
    • Ask for personal data to be erased if there is no longer any legitimate reason to keep it
    • Have data corrected if it is incorrect
    • Move data from one service provider, such as an email service or social network, to another
  • Former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Venditto acquitted in corruption case

    Former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Venditto acquitted in corruption case

    LONG ISLAND, NY(TIP) Former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto was acquitted Thursday, May 24, on all corruption-related charges as a federal jury delivered a partial verdict before continuing its deliberations on his co-defendants, former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and his wife, Linda.

    Venditto was cleared on 27 counts that included federal program bribery, honest-services wire fraud and securities fraud in the trial now nearing the end of its 11th week.

    Prosecutors had alleged that Venditto, 68, of North Massapequa, accepted free limo rides and other perks from Singh and, in exchange, helped Singh obtain the more than $20 million in business loans pegged to Oyster Bay’s creditworthiness.

    “Mr. Venditto, you are excused. Good luck,” Azrack said after his verdict was read.

    “Thank you,” he replied.

    He remained stoic in the Central Islip courtroom as, count by count, the “not guilty” findings became a refrain.

    “From the very first day I started in law school, I have had nothing but faith in our justice system and the events of today confirm that faith,” Venditto told the gathered mediapersons after he was dismissed with the well wishes of U.S. District Judge Joan M. Azrack.

    Meanwhile, Jury is set to deliberate on Mangano and Linda cases on Friday, May 25.

  • A bang and a whimper- Trump scraps Kim summit, citing NK’s ‘open hostility’

    A bang and a whimper- Trump scraps Kim summit, citing NK’s ‘open hostility’

    Trump’s announcement came hours after North Korea carried out what it said is the demolition of its nuclear test site.

    WASHINGTON(TIP): US President Donald Trump on Thursday, May 24, called off a historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un scheduled for next month, even after North Korea followed through on a pledge to blow up tunnels at its nuclear test site.

    Trump announced his abrupt withdrawal from what would have been a first-ever meeting between a serving US President and a North Korean leader in Singapore on June 12 in a letter to Kim.

    A White House official said a North Korean official’s condemnation of US Vice-President Mike Pence as a “political dummy” was “the last straw” that led to cancelling the summit.

    “Sadly, based on the tremendous anger and open hostility displayed in your most recent statement, I feel it would be inappropriate, at this time, to have this long-planned meeting,” Trump wrote to Kim.

    “Please let this letter serve to represent that the Singapore summit, for the good of both parties, but to the detriment of the world, will not take place.” Trump called it “a missed opportunity” and said he still hoped to meet Kim someday. However, the chances for a quick rescheduling appear remote and cancellation of the summit will renew fears of a return to conflict on the Korean peninsula.

    Earlier on Thursday, North Korea had repeated a threat to pull out of the summit with Trump next month and warned it was prepared for a nuclear showdown with Washington if necessary.

    South Korea’s presidential Blue House appeared taken off guard by Trump’s letter and an official said it was “trying to figure out what President Trump exactly meant.” South Korean President Moon Jae-in had met with Trump at the White House on Tuesday, May 22, to urge him to follow through on the summit and not let a rare opportunity with reclusive North Korea slip away.

    A few hours before Trump announced the cancellation, a small group of international media selected by North Korea witnessed the demolition of tunnels at the Punggye-ri site on Thursday, May 24, which Pyongyang said was proof of its commitment to end nuclear testing.

    Meanwhile, alarm bells began to ring at the world body. Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General said, “I am deeply concerned by the cancellation of the planned meeting in Singapore between the President of the United States and the leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Both the parties must continue their dialogue so as to find a path to the peaceful and verifiable denuclearization of the Korean peninsula”.

  • May 25 New York & Dallas Print Editions

    May 25 New York & Dallas Print Editions

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Print Replica ~ Digitally

    E-Editions

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”New York Edition” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center” google_fonts=”font_family:Istok%20Web%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theindianpanorama.news%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F05%2FTIP-May-25-NYC.pdf|||”][vc_single_image image=”92871″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.theindianpanorama.news/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/TIP-May-25-NYC.pdf”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Dallas, Texas Edition” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center” google_fonts=”font_family:Istok%20Web%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theindianpanorama.news%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F05%2FTIP-May-25-Dallas-TX.pdf|||”][vc_single_image image=”92872″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.theindianpanorama.news/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/TIP-May-25-Dallas-TX.pdf”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”82828″ img_size=”medium” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.theindianpanorama.news/advertising-media-kit-portal-indian-panorama/”][vc_single_image image=”82829″ img_size=”medium” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”https://www.theindianpanorama.news/advertising-media-kit-portal-indian-panorama/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][td_block_ad_box spot_id=”custom_ad_3″ tdc_css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Lead Stories This Week” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center” google_fonts=”font_family:Istok%20Web%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theindianpanorama.news%2F|||”][td_block_5 separator=”” limit=”8″ tdc_css=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”td-default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Indian Origin Gobind Singh Deo Becomes Malaysia’s First Sikh Minister

    Indian Origin Gobind Singh Deo Becomes Malaysia’s First Sikh Minister

    KUALA LUMPUR (TIP): An Indian origin Sikh politician in Malaysia, Gobind Singh Deo, has become the cabinet minister. He is the first member of the minority community in the country’s history to be appointed as a minister.

    Mr.Deo, 45, who has been given the communications and multimedia portfolio, is among the two politicians of Indian descent included in the Pakatan Harapan coalition’s Cabinet.

    The other Indian origin lawmaker is M Kulasegaran from the Democratic Action Party, who has been made the human resource minister.

    Mr. Deo represents Puchong constituency in the Malaysian Parliament and is the son of late Malaysian lawyer and politician Karpal Singh. He was sworn in during a ceremony at the National Palace yesterday after Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad included him in the new cabinet.

    He was first elected as an MP in the 2008 general elections. Mr. Deo was re-elected to the lower house, with an increased margin, in 2013 and he again won this year’s election with a margin of 47,635 votes.

    The Punjabi community in the country has hailed the appointment of Mr. Deo as the minister.

    “It is good to see Gobind Singh, a member of the Punjabi community in the cabinet. It is a proud and happy occasion for our community. Other than being a recognition of his abilities, it is also a recognition for the long established Punjabi community in Malaysia, Miri Indian Association president, Councillor Karambir Singh was quoted.

    Malaysia has a Sikh population of nearly 1,00,000.

  • Indian Student, Clicking Selfie, Dies After Falling Off Hill In Australia

    Indian Student, Clicking Selfie, Dies After Falling Off Hill In Australia

    MELBOURNE (TIP):  In a tragic incident, a 20-year-old Indian origin student has died after falling off rocks into the ocean from a popular tourist attraction in Western Australia while trying to take a selfie, media reports said.

    Ankit was with friends when he slipped off the 40-metre precipice at The Gap, near the historic port town of Albany, the media reported.

    He was studying in Perth, and had been running and jumping on the rocks before he slipped and plunged into the ocean while taking a photo with friends , the report said.

    His body was recovered from the water just over an hour later following a search involving a rescue helicopter.

    “He was just very careful, just to take a picture and he just slipped down there, on the hill,” his friend was quoted as saying by the report.

    Police are still trying to contact the student’s parents.

    “A young male has gone into the water, and sadly lost their life. This is such a tragic event,” said Dominic Wood, Great Southern District superintendent.

    All I know at this stage is that there is a small group, we think of about five young adults, they were down here within the vicinity of the platform behind me around the rocks,” Wood said.

    “It is a dangerous area but if you take precautions and stay between the bounds, then these things won’t happen.”

    The site was briefly closed two years ago to add a viewing platform and railings and warning signs near the edge.

     

  • Indian Americans Appointed By New York Mayor To Board Of Advisors

    Indian Americans Appointed By New York Mayor To Board Of Advisors

    NEW YORK (TIP):  Two Indian American executives are among 19 people appointed by New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio as members to an organization that addresses the city’s most pressing challenges, with a particular focus on improving the lives of vulnerable New Yorkers.

    Hotel Association of New York City President and CEO Vijay Dandapani and Insight Venture Partners Managing Director Deven Parekh, along with 17 other individuals have been appointed members to the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City Board of Advisors.

    Mr. Dandapani is a hotel industry veteran, recognized in 1998 as one of Crain’s New York Business top 100 minority business leaders in New York City.

    In 2002, the Asian American Business Development Center, New York selected him as one of 50 outstanding Asian Americans in Business. He is an alumnus of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration.

    According to its website, the Hotel Association of New York City is one of the oldest professional trade associations in the nation. Currently it represents 280 hotels, 80,000 rooms and about 50,000 employees.

    Mr. Parekh manages investments in vertical and horizontal software and consumer internet companies globally. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the Economic Club of NY and the Greater NY Partnership.

    He was nominated by former president Barack Obama, and confirmed by the US Senate to serve on the Overseas Private Investment Corporation Board. In addition, he is chairman emeritus of Publicolor, a New York City based non-profit organization that focuses on inner city schools.

    During the period 2010 2012, he served as a Member of the Advisory Board of the US Export-Import Bank which is the official export credit agent of the United States. Mr. Parekh is regularly featured on Forbes’ list of the world’s top venture capitalists.

    For over 20 years, the Board of Advisors has provided expertise and critical support for the Fund as it pursues its goal of creating innovative and evidence-based approaches to address the City’s most pressing challenges, a press statement issued yesterday said.

    “To address the challenges facing our city, we need all New Yorkers pushing for progress together including those in our robust private sector,” de Blasio said.

    First Lady Chirlane McCray, Chair of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City said the administration depends on New York City’s civic leaders to partner with government to make the city more vibrant and equitable.

    Founded in 1994, the Mayor’s Fund is a not-for-profit organization which annually works with an average of over 80 City programs, projects and initiatives; over 300 institutional funders; and more than 100 community-based organizations.

    The Mayor’s Fund and its partners work on a diverse set of initiatives that address needs across the city’s five boroughs, with a particular focus on improving the lives of vulnerable New Yorkers and New Yorkers in need.

    The Fund has made strategic investments to promote mental health services for all New Yorkers, increase workforce development opportunities for young New Yorkers, and meet the needs of New York City’s diverse immigrant community.

    Recently, the Mayor’s Fund has supported relief work in response to the unprecedented natural disasters that hit Puerto Rico, Texas and the Caribbean, including collecting USD 1.7 million in aid for residents displaced by Hurricane Maria.

     

     

     

  • Indian Origin UK based missing boy found

    Indian Origin UK based missing boy found

    LONDON (TIP): UK based 15-year-old Indian origin Abhimanyu Chohan who disappeared from his school after he was reportedly accused of cheating when he scored 100 per cent marks in an exam has been found safe and well, British police said.

    Abhimanyu went missing from King Henry VIII Independent School in Coventry on May 18thafter he scored 100 per cent marks in a mock test and was worried about getting into trouble.

    West Midlands Police tweeted that he had been found “safe and well”, the media reported.

    On the day he went missing, Abhimanyu changed his clothes and walked out of school – he was caught on CCTV on the highway in the city.

    Abhimanyu’s father Varinder Chohan said his son had been worried about getting in trouble at school after accusations he had cheated on an exam paper.

    His family believe he may have left Coventry and could have travelled as far as Oxfordshire – but he has no money, food or extra clothing.

    “We just want him back safe, this is so unlike him. He’s a bit of a high flyer, he’s a smart kid but he’s not street wise,” Mr Chouhan said.

    “We’re worried he may have thought he was in trouble because he got top marks on a mock exam paper.”

    “We think he might have seen the paper beforehand but we’re not sure exactly what happened.”

    “He was allowed to sit for a completely new paper, so I don’t think there was even a major problem with the school. He is due to sit his General Certificate of Secondary Education’s next year and is on course to do well.

    “But he was worried he might get in trouble because he’s never been in trouble before at all. He’s never been in detention, he’s just a hard-working intelligent kid.”

    Abhimanyu’s mother Navneet said that her son turned 15 about a week ago and “was so happy”, the report said.

    “I dropped him off and he must have then changed,” she said.
    “Police came and said ‘we can do more but have to wait until we are on high alert’.

    “They said maybe he is taking time for himself and wants to clear his head.”

    Relatives have been joined by friends and neighbors to help search for the missing teenager. His aunt, Manjit Sahota, said the family just want him back “safe and sound” and that they “love him so much”.

    In a statement on King Henry VIII School’s official Facebook page, head-master Jason Slack said, “We are all concerned about Abhimanyu’s whereabouts and his safety and the school is working closely with the family and the police to locate Abhimanyu as quickly as possible.”

     

     

     

  • Indian Ambassador Navtej Sarna addresses Indian American community in Columbus

    Indian Ambassador Navtej Sarna addresses Indian American community in Columbus

    COLUMBUS (TIP): Indian Ambassador to the United States Navtej Sarna addressed the Indian American community at an event organized by The Federation of Indian Associations of Central Ohio on May 18thand praised their  contribution in the strengthening of the US-India relationship.

    At the event, held in Columbus, Sarna also felicitated 7-year-old Indian American boy Arush Kristipati, who won the National Math Challenge in the Juniors category, conducted by Aloha, New Jersey.

    The Federation of Indian Associations of Central Ohio is a volunteer non-profit organization established in 1983 to bring all the Indian American groups in Central Ohio under one umbrella.

    Addressing the community, Sarna spoke about latest economic developments in India and answered a wide range of questions on India-US relations. He thanked the federation for organizing the event.

    The group announced that it will host the India Festival 2018 on August 25 at the Ohio Expo Centre.

    The India Festival is celebrated each year to create awareness about the Indian culture and to understand how it is adding to the cultural diversity of Ohio. The festival is a one-of-its-kind event presented by Indian community in central Ohio.

  • Indian American Techie Srinivas Kuchibhotla’s killer Adam Purinton pleads guilty to hate crime charges

    Indian American Techie Srinivas Kuchibhotla’s killer Adam Purinton pleads guilty to hate crime charges

    KANSAS (TIP): Indian American Techie Srinivas Kuchibhotla’s killer Adam Purinton, the navy veteran, has pleaded guilty to federal hate crime charges.

    Kuchibhotla died in the shooting incident that happened on February 22 last year after Purinton opened fire at the two Indians under the assumption that they were Iranians.

    Kuchibhotla was an aviation engineer at the Kansas-based technology company Garmin International and was living in the United States with his wife, Sunayana Dumala.

    A third patron, Ian Grillot, a white American, was also wounded as he tried to intervene when Purinton tried fleeing from the bar after the incident.

    Purinton, 53, entered the guilty plea to a three-count indictment on  May 22nd at a Kansas federal court. He is slapped with hate crime and firearm charges.

    The series of events that led to the killing of Kuchibhotla was mentioned the Department of Justice in a press release.

     “Hate crimes are acts of evil, and the Department of Justice has prioritized their zealous prosecution,” said Acting Associate Attorney General Jesse Panuccio. “In this case, the defendant embarked on a murderous rampage with clear premeditation to kill on the basis of race, color, religion, and national origin. It was a hate crime, and he is being brought to justice. While we cannot ameliorate the irreparable harm to the victims and their families, we hope that securing this guilty plea brings them some measure of closure.  And this prosecution sends a message across the nation: hate crimes will not be tolerated.”

    “Nothing we do can provide complete comfort and solace to the victims of this tragic crime and their families,” said U.S. Attorney McAllister. “But our office hopes that the federal life sentence which Mr. Purinton has agreed to request and accept will give them some measure of closure.”

    “Although Purinton has already been convicted of murder in the State of Kansas, and sentenced to life in prison, today’s plea in federal court speaks to his motive,” said FBI Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Darrin Jones. “By his agreement to today’s plea, Purinton acknowledges that his actions were motived by his hatred of the victims’ race, religion, color and national origin.  This type of hatred will never be tolerated.  I think it’s important for the community to see and understand that the FBI is committed to aggressively protecting and preserving the civil rights of all of our communities.”

  • Indian American Aruna Miller Marlyland Democrat received another big endorsement courtesy the Former Obama Chief of Staff Denis McDonough

    Indian American Aruna Miller Marlyland Democrat received another big endorsement courtesy the Former Obama Chief of Staff Denis McDonough

    MARYLAND (TIP): Indian American Maryland Democrat Aruna Miller received another big endorsement on May 22nd courtesy Denis McDonough, former Chief of Staff to President Barack Obama.

    “I know first-hand what it takes to get things done in Washington,” McDonough, who served as chief of staff during Obama’s second term from 2013 to 2017. “Right now, we need experienced leaders who will stand up and fight for our values. Aruna came to this country as an immigrant and benefited from the American dream. I admire how she is giving back.” said Denis McDonough.

    “Denis McDonough led President Obama’s team defending the Affordable Care Act and protecting our environment,” Miller said. “I’m delighted to have his support. In Congress, I won’t let Donald Trump undo the progress we’ve made.”

    Last week, Montgomery County Council Vice President Nancy Navarro had endorsed Miller, who has bagged a series of high-profile endorsements.

    Among Democrats who have so far endorsed her include Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-NY; US Reps. Pramila Jayapal, D-WA,  Ami Bera, D-CA, Ro Khanna, D-CA, and  Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi; Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett; former Maryland Lieutenant Gov. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend; and Maryland Del. Kumar Barve.

    The primary is on June 26.

    One of Miller’s primary rivals is millionaire David Trone, who spent more than $13 million of his money when he ran unsuccessfully from the 8th congressional district two years ago.

    Trone has so far raised more than $5.6 million and spent $4 million, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.

    Miller has remained competitive by doing well in a series of debates and also raising nearly $1.2 million, which is more than the combined amount raised by the five other candidates in the Democratic primary.