The Indian Panorama

Month: September 2019

  • NJPAC-WA at GALA Celebrates RAY CHARLES

    NJPAC-WA at GALA Celebrates RAY CHARLES

    By Mabel Pais

    “NJPAC is pushing its way into a new future, and being very imaginative and very intentional about the breadth of its vision and connectivity”

    – Marcia Wilson Brown, Board President of Women’s Association of NJPAC (NJPAC-WA)

    Extreme left: Ray Charles.
    Top Row: (left) Diana Reeves, Jarrod Spector
    Bottom Row: left to right: Yolanda Adams, Davell Crawford, Ray Chew.
    Photo / Courtesy, NJPAC.

    Performances by
    Yolanda Adams | Davell Crawford | Dianne Reeves | Jarrod Spector l Music Director Ray Chew (from Bergen County)

    The New Jersey Performing Arts Center Women’s Association (NJPAC-WA) celebrates The Music of Ray Charlesat its Annual Spotlight Gala on Saturday September 28, 2019at 8:30 p.m. This star-studded performance will pay tribute to the music of Ray Charles, who performed at the very first Women’s Association Spotlight Gala.

    The most memorable songs made famous by the legendary Ray Charles– numbers like “Georgia On My Mind,” “Hit the Road Jack” and “I Can’t Stop Loving You” – are performed by acclaimed artists from the worlds of jazz, gospel, Broadway and R&B: Yolanda Adams, Davell Crawford, Dianne Reeves and Jarrod Spector.

    Music Director Ray Chew(“Dancing with the Stars” and “American Idol”) hosts “Celebrating the Music ofRay Charles,” a concert tribute to the great pianist and vocalist Ray Charles. An all-star cast offers thrilling interpretations of Charles’ most beloved recordings through the decades – from “America the Beautiful” to “Zig Zag.”

    After 12 albums, five GRAMMY Awards and performances for several U.S. Presidents, Yolanda Adams is renowned for pioneering the blend of modern gospel music with soul and jazz. She was inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame in 2017 for her outstanding achievements in the Christian music industry, and has reigned on the radio airwaves as the host of “The Yolanda Adams Morning Show.”

    Known as “The Prince of New Orleans,” pianist and singer Davell Crawford has become one of the true wonders of the Crescent City music scene. He tours the world, performing sold-out concerts, as a leading representative of American roots music, specifically New Orleans piano tradition. He has worked with Dr. John, Aaron Neville, Nona Hendrix, Roberta Flack and many other artists.

    Dianne Reeves is the pre-eminent jazz vocalist, whose talents are on display in every song of her limitless repertoire. Her virtuosity, improvisational prowess and unique jazz and R&B stylings have earned her five GRAMMY Awards, an honorary doctorate from Juilliard, and a 2018 NEA Jazz Master honor. “She has one of the most powerful, purposeful, and accurate voices of this or any time,” says Wynton Marsalis.

    Jarrod Spectorwas nominated for both a Tony Award and Outer Critics Circle Award for his performance as Barry Mann in “Beautiful – The Carole King Musical.” He made his Broadway debut as Gavroche in the original production of “Les Miserables,” and went on to play a record-breaking 1,500 performances as Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys” on Broadway. He just finished his Broadway run as Sonny Bono in “The Cher Show.”

    Ray Chew,currently in his 10th season as music director of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” has been at the helm of award-winning musical events with Rihanna, Pitbull, Queen Latifah, James Taylor and many others. The former music director for Fox’s “American Idol,” he has music-directed “The 65th Primetime Emmy Awards,” the “2008 Democratic National Convention,” “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade” and more.

    This performance includes a brief awards ceremony.

    Presented as part of the Women’s Associationof NJPACSpotlight Gala 2019benefiting NJPAC’s general operating fund and its arts education programs.

    Tickets

    Performance-only tickets are available. 

    Performance and After-Party Benefit Tickets include the performance, and after-party with NJPAC’s Dessert Extravaganza, open bar, and dancing with celebrity guest DJ KISS, spinning the classics and today’s hits. These tickets are also available.

    For Ticketsto see the Music of Ray Charles, visit NJPAC.org or the NJPACBox Office or call 888.GO.NJPAC(888.466.5722).

     

    Full Gala tickets include a cocktail reception, dinner, the performance in Prudential Hall, and after-party with dancing and the Dessert Extravaganza.

    For full Gala tickets and sponsorship information, email Sarah Rosen atsrosen@njpac.org,call (973) 297-5806 or visit njpac.org/gala

     (Mabel Paiswrites on the Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, and Health & Wellness.  She can be reached at mabelep1406@gmail.com)

     

  • US hostage negotiator is new NSA

    US hostage negotiator is new NSA

    WASHINGTON(TIP): US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, Sept 18,  named his chief hostage negotiator Robert O’Brien as the new National Security Adviser to replace John Bolton, who was fired last week.

    O’Brien, who has been serving as the special envoy for hostage affairs at the Department of State, has been chosen for the role, Trump tweeted.

    “I am pleased to announce that I will name Robert C O’Brien, currently serving as the very successful Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs at the State Department, as our new National Security Adviser. I have worked long and hard with Robert. He will do a great job!” he said.

    In his role as special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, O’Brien works with families of American hostages and advises on related issues, including recovery policies. O’Brien would be Trump’s fourth national security adviser of his presidency.

    (With inputs from PTI)

  • JLF at New York: Celebration of books, ideas, and dialogue

    JLF at New York: Celebration of books, ideas, and dialogue

    Bidisha Roy

    NEW YORKCITY (TIP): The third edition of JLF New York – Jaipur Literature Festival — described as “the greatest literary show on Earth” — came to New York, presenting a series of conversations and performances examining the human experience through the imaginations of some of the world’s leading authors, thinkers, and performers.

    Teamwork Arts, producer of the Jaipur Literature Festival, in partnership with Asia Society and Museum, brought to New York the iconic eventon September 17 and 18, featuring internationally acclaimed authors and thinkers.

    This was be the second year that Asia Society hosted the festival in New York City. The festival opened with a reception on the evening of the 17th, held in partnership with DAG a leading gallery dedicated to Modern Indian Art in NYC.

    At the releasee of Manisha Koirala’s memoirs “Healing”. L to R: Sanjoy K Roy, Manisha Koirala, Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty, Namita Gokhale
    Photo / courtesy Tirlok Malik

    The program and panels took place at Asia Society on September 18th, whichbegan with a musical ‘Jugalbandi’ by Utsav Lal (Piano) and Alec Goldfarb (Guitar).

    The inaugural address session was grace by India’s Consul General in New York Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty, Tom Nagorski, Executive VicePresident of Asia Society, Sanjoy K. Roy,Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, writer, publisher Namita Gokhale, and William Dalrymple, one of the founders and a co-director of the ZEE Jaipur Literature Festival.

    Tom Nagorski said that the Asia Society is proud and thrilled to host the event again.

    Highlighting the aim, Sanjoy K. Roy said, “Our target is to bring multiple voices together and to bring diversity and to get different point of views across the world leaders who gather at the UN every year.”

    For Namita Gokhale, JLF is a platform that ‘builds up an environment which brings book and ideas beyond the usual tracks and gatekeepers.’

    According toWilliam Dalrymple, the ‘hunger’ of readers’ to interact live with the authors is the driving force.

    Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty, who was the last speaker, emphasized on focusing on regional literatures at the festival across US, citing the example of growing Telugu speaking population in New Jersey. “Our population is growing here. Young educated people are coming and they speak their language. It’s not the second generation Indians who do not speak their mother tongue and they demand for language literature. I think we may consider this in our future editions”, he suggested.

    The programincluded the launch of William Dalrymple’s latest book, The Anarchy (Bloomsbury Publishing), on the rise and significance of the East India Company; actress and film star Manisha Koirala whose latest memoir recounts her battle with cancer; Margo Jefferson speaking on Caste, Color and Gender;  Priyamvada Natarajan talking about her book Mapping the Heavens, with insights into the nature of our universe;  Food, Memory and Culture featuring Adam Platt, contributing editor and restaurant critic for New York magazine and Columbia University’s session These Lands We Call Home, where a panel of writers and thinkers examined the current age of immigrants and global movement, as more and more people claim a multiplicity of coexisting identities.  An array of provocative panels and debates discussed the issues that shape our thoughts and perspectives.

  • India’s outreach, engagement at 74th UNGA session to be unprecedented: Amb Akbaruddin

    India’s outreach, engagement at 74th UNGA session to be unprecedented: Amb Akbaruddin

    NEW YORK CITY(TIP):  India’s engagement and outreach at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly, set to begin here next week, is unprecedented and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the world organization will result in concrete, tangible, action-oriented outcomes, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin said.

    Akbaruddin, briefing reporters at the Permanent Mission of India to the UN Thursday on India’s priorities and engagements at the United Nations during the high-level session said the extent of India’s outreach at the General Assembly this year is unprecedented. He said a total of over 75 Heads of State and Foreign Ministers will be meeting with Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan during the week across various platforms.

    “We have, as of today, more than 75 Heads of State or Foreign Ministers going to be engaged intensively,” he said adding that these will not be pull-asides or brush-asides but would be events where either the Prime Minister and his counterparts or the External Affairs Minister and his counterparts will engage in the same room, discussing substantive issues for at least 30 minutes. “And that’s what I call when I say that the breadth is unprecedented. We have never, ever had this sort of an engagement of this intensity during the General Assembly session with such a broad number of countries,” Akbaruddin said.

    He underscored that there is willingness of a large group of countries to engage with India together.

    “In past engagements at the UN, we’ve had plurilateral meetings like the G4 or BRICS at the Ministerial level, but never have we had this engagement of India and a group of countries together, wanting to work collectively with India,” he said adding that all the engagements are very action-oriented. “It’s very different from normative talking. The UN is known to be sometimes derisively referred to as a talk shop. Talking is important. I don’t think that we should deride talk shops because jaw-jaw is better than waw-waw. So talking is important. But more important is that we need to walk the talk and …What you will see distinctively coming out of the visit this time is concrete, tangible, action-oriented outcomes that we are working on with our partners globally.”

    Modi, who will be addressing the General Debate for the first time in five years, has a packed bilateral and multilateral agenda beginning September 23 till September 27, when he will address world leaders from the iconic podium in the General Assembly hall. In all, he will be delivering nine key speeches at high-level summits and plurilateral engagements. With Modi making his first visit to the UN after his resounding election victory in May, Akbaruddin said the Indian leader will “articulate his vision of how he sees India’s place in the multilateral arena, based on his past experience, but a forward looking vision.”

    Modi arrives in New York on the evening of September 22 from Houston, where he will address a massive community event along with President Donald Trump. On the morning of September 23, he will be among the first set of speakers at UN Secretary General’s high-level Climate Action Summit in the UN General Assembly chamber along with Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern, President of Marshall Islands Hilda Heine and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Over 63 countries have been invited to speak at the Summit, which will demonstrate solutions by governments, the private sector and civil society to reduce emissions and build climate resilience and adaptation. Immediately after this session, Modi will address the first-ever High-level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage, which will launch new efforts to provide access for all to affordable, inclusive and resilient health systems.

    Later in the day, Modi will address the ‘Leaders’ Dialogue on Strategic Responses to Terrorist and Violent Extremist Narratives’, organized by a group of countries, along with the UN Secretariat, which deals with the Office of Counterterrorism. The meeting is led by King of Jordan Abdullah II, President of France Emmanuel Macron and Ardern. Akbaruddin said Modi has made a call for international conference to counter terrorism and he will make that pitch in his meeting. Addressing the challenges of terrorism will always be a theme in India’s external orientation, because “our people have suffered enough. And we would like the international community to act in unison to address these issues.”

    He further said that “climate change, health, terrorism and violent, extremist narrative are all areas that India is interested in on a global platform.”

    On September 24, India will be highlighting a new feature of its approach at the UN through the plurilateral ‘India-Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting. India and the Pacific nations have met under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation (FIPIC), first in Fiji in 2014 and then in Jaipur in 2015. Leaders of Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu will attend this high-level meet.

    “The Indo-Pacific is a major area in which we are focused and these specific small-island countries are a very close partner that we are working on a whole host of issues,” Akbaruddin said.

    Modi has been invited by Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies Founder Michael Bloomberg to deliver the keynote address at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum in the morning of September 25. Following this, there will be a large number of interactions with CEOs. Later in the afternoon, India will engage with the CARICOM group of countries at the first leaders’ level summit expected to last about two hours. Leaders from Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago will attend this summit. Modi will have several bilateral meetings during his visit and will address the General Debate on September 27. He could have a bilateral meeting with Trump between September 23 and 25th.

    Jaishankar too has a packed schedule of meetings and engagements and he will participate in the BRICS, G4 and SAARC Foreign Ministers meet on the sidelines of the General Assembly session. Muraleedharan will engage with the countries of the NAM, the Group of 77, the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures (CICA), Commonwealth and SAMOA Pathway. (Source: PTI)

  • One dead, five hurt in Washington, DC shooting: Police

    One dead, five hurt in Washington, DC shooting: Police

    WASHINGTON(TIP):  Gunfire erupted on the streets of Washington, D.C., on Thursday, September 19 night, not far from the White House.

    One person was killed,  and five others wounded, police said.

    It was not immediately clear if a suspect had been taken into custody in the incident, but a law enforcement source told Reuters it was not considered an “active shooter” situation.

    The source said the five wounded victims of the shooting were expected to survive their injuries.

    The gunfire erupted in the Columbia Heights neighborhood, about two  miles from the White House.

    ABC affiliate WJLA-TV posted images on Twitter of ambulances carrying victims from the scene and said there had been a “massive” police response at the intersection of 14th Street and Columbia Road.

    Local TV station FOX-5 reported, citing police, that six people were shot in the incident, shortly after 10 pm eastern time.

  • Hawkish Netanyahu fails to win majority in Israeli Elections

    Hawkish Netanyahu fails to win majority in Israeli Elections

    Gantz rejects Netanyahu’s offer for unity govt

    JERUSALEM (TIP): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to win a ruling majority in an election that produced a virtual tie between his right-wing bloc and a center-left grouping that would be led by former military chief Benny Gantz.

    Netanyahu’s Likud party trailed its main rival Blue and White by 31 to 32 seats on Wednesday, September 18,  putting the country’s longest serving premier on a shaky ground and raising the possibility of a unity government.

    Israelis voted on Tuesday, September 17,  in their country’s second general election in five months after 69-year-old Netanyahu failed to form a governing coalition with a viable majority following April’s vote.

    The Central Election Committee (CEC) said Blue and White party seemed to be taking a lead over Likud after 91 per cent votes were counted.

    As per figures shared by the CEC, the center-left bloc now has 56 seats compared to Netanyahu-led bloc, comprised of right-wing and ultra-Orthodox parties, which is at 55 seats in the 120-member Parliament. The Joint List, an alliance of mostly Arab Israeli parties, also has gained a seat standing at 13. These numbers may change slightly when the votes of soldiers are counted later on Thursday.

    The secular Yisrael Beitenu party won nine seats, making its leader and former defense minister Avigdor Lieberman the kingmaker in the elections.

    Meanwhile, the Netanyahu’s office said the prime minister will not travel to New York next week for the UN General Assembly in the wake of the election results.

    Lieberman, an ally-turned-rival of Netanyahu, said, “The picture is clear…There is only one option and it’s a broad liberal unity government, comprising of Likud, Blue and White and his own Yisrael Beitenu.”

    (Source: PTI)

  • “Howdy Modi” brings together Indian Americans, Hindu Americans: Tulsi Gabbard

    “Howdy Modi” brings together Indian Americans, Hindu Americans: Tulsi Gabbard

    WASHINGTON (TIP): “Howdy Modi” is bringing together Indian Americans and Hindu Americans from across the U.S., Democratic presidential aspirant and the first Hindu woman in the U.S. Congress Tulsi Gabbard said.

    Ms. Gabbard, 38, on September 19 extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his upcoming U.S. visit beginning on Saturday, September 21.

    “I’m very happy to see that Howdy Modi is bringing together Indian-Americans and Hindu Americans from across our country, including many of my colleagues in the U.S. Congress,” Ms. Gabbard said.

    Prime Minister Modi will attend a large gathering with an audience of over 50,000 at the NRG Stadium in Houston on Sunday, September 22.

    U.S. President Donald Trump along with a number of high-ranking US government officials, including Governors, Members of Congress and Mayors will attend the “Howdy Modi!” event.

    “India is the world’s oldest and largest democracy, and one of the United States most important allies,” Ms. Gabbard said.

    “The Unites States and India must work closely together if we are to address the pressing issues that impact our nations, our countries, and the entire world such as combating climate change, preventing nuclear war and nuclear proliferation, and improving the economic well-being of our people,” she said.

    Ms. Gabbard described the wonderful opportunity the U.S. and India has for “…a strong and lasting partnership between our two great nations, a partnership based on shared values and objectives“.

    “Let us work together to usher in a 21st century of aloha — respect and love for others, no matter our race, religion, ethnicity, caste, economic status or political affiliations,” Ms. Gabbard said.

    The fourth-term lawmaker is a former Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans.

    She was part of a select group of Members of Congress to greet and escort Mr. Modi to the podium when he addressed a Joint Session of Congress in June 2016 and has welcomed him to events promoting greater U.S.-India relations.

    A long-time advocate for greater ties between the U.S. and India, she also congratulated Mr. Modi when he was first elected as Prime Minister following the 2014 elections.

    Ms. Gabbard, highly popular among Indian American, converted to Hinduism early in her life and has become the first-ever Hindu to be running for the presidency in the U.S.

    She supported Senator Bernie Sanders against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primary.

    (Source: PTI)

  • Prime Minister Modi’s Engagements in New York

    Prime Minister Modi’s Engagements in New York

    NEW YORK(TIP): On his first visit to the US after returning as PM for the second term in May this year,  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will come to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly or UNGA session after “Howdy Modi!” event in Houston on Sunday, Sept 22. He will conclude his US visit with a special address at the UNGA on September 27.

    Here is a look at Modi’s Engagements during the UNGA Sept 23-27.

    Sept 23

    Climate Action Summit 2019

    Time: 1045 – 1100 Hrs

    Venue: UN General Assembly

    PM in first cohort of Speakers

    At Number Three among National

    Statements

    UN High-Level Meeting on universal health coverage

    Time: 1130 – 1200 Hrs

    Venue: Trusteeship Council Chamber

    Leaders’ Dialogue on strategic responses to terrorist and violent extremist narratives

    Time: 1630 – 1800 Hrs

    Venue: Conference Room 1, UNHQ

    Sept 24

     INDIA – PACIFIC ISLANDS LEADERS’ MEETING

    Time: 1530 – 1700 Hrs

    Venue: Lotte New York Palace

    Leaders of Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu to attend

    LEADERSHIP MATTERS: “Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World”

    Time: 1830 – 1930 hrs

    Venue: ECOSOC Chamber, UNHQ

    LEADERSHIP MATTERS:

    “Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World”

    Release of Special UN Postage Stamp Commemorating

    150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

    Remote Inauguration of “Gandhi Solar Park” at UN

    Headquarters and “Gandhi Peace Garden”

    Global goalkeeper Awards 2019

    PM Narendra Modi to receive Global Goalkeeper Award and speak at the  Third Annual Goalkeepers event

    Time: 2010 – 2100 hrs

    Sept 25

    Bloomberg Global Business Forum

    PM Narendra Modi to give the Keynote address

    Time: 0845 – 0905 hrs

    India-CARICOM Leaders’ Meeting

    Time: 1500 – 1700 Hrs

    Venue: Lotte New York Palace

    First Summit between India and CARICOM Member States

    Leaders from Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada,

    Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago to attend

    Sept 26

    Several bilateral Meetings

    Sept 27

    74th UNGA GENERAL DEBATE

     Prime Minister will address the UN General Assembly between 1000 Hrs – 1100 Hrs

  • Trump to Join ‘Howdy Modi’: Delighted for Special Gesture, Says Modi

    Trump to Join ‘Howdy Modi’: Delighted for Special Gesture, Says Modi

    WASHINGTON(TIP): India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed delight at the news of US President Donald. J. Trump  joining the special community program, ‘Howdy Modi’, in Houston, Texas on September 22. Prime Minister said that U.S President’s participation signifies the special friendship between India and USA.

    Terming President Trump’s participation in the event as a special gesture, Prime Minister said that it highlights the strength of the India-US bilateral relationship and recognition of the contribution of the Indian community to American society and economy.

    Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “A special gesture by @POTUS, signifying the special friendship between India and USA! Delighted that President @realDonaldTrump will join the community programme in Houston on the 22nd. Looking forward to joining the Indian origin community in welcoming him at the programme.”

    “The special gesture of President @realDonaldTrump to join us in Houston highlights the strength of the relationship and recognition of the contribution of the Indian community to American society and economy.”

    On Sept 16, White House had issued a press statement confirming Donald Trump’s participation in the event. Highlighting the importance of the event, the press statement noted, “It will be a great opportunity to emphasize the strong ties between the people of the United States and India, to reaffirm the strategic partnership between the world’s oldest and largest democracies, and to discuss ways to deepen their energy and trade relationship.”

    ‘Howdy Modi – Shared Dreams, Bright Futures’ is a community summit hosted by Texas India Forum, for Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, September 22 at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Over fifty thousand people are expected to attend the event who will get to experience “Woven: The Indian-American Story,” a 90-minute cultural program that is a celebration of Indian-Americans and their contributions to the cultural, intellectual, and social landscape of the United States.

    Presented by the Texas India Forum, Woven is a 90-minute music, dance, and multimedia show featuring close to 400 artists and community members from Texas and across the nation. There are 27 groups performing in a seamless live and multimedia experience that will showcase the diversity in the Indian-American community. Two original songs have been written for the program, which will trace the journey of Indian-American youth learning their roots to understanding how to put that together with the contemporary world.

    “A challenge that many second and third generation Indian-Americans go through is navigating the complexity of having a hyphenated identity as an Indian and an American. Woven showcases the multiplicity of Indian-American experience. Our hope is that each person sees themselves in at least one form of expression and recognizes that whatever mix of Indian and American they are, it is just right,” said Heena Patel, CEO of MELA Arts Connect and co-producer of the program.

    The show will also shine a light on unsung heroes in the Indian-American community who have undertaken selfless acts benefiting the broader American community without any need of recognition. From the classical and folk traditions passed on in basements across America to the creative exchange between Eastern and Western arts and ideas, Woven illuminates the stories of generations of Indian Americans and snapshots of home, and builds on the theme of “Shared Dreams, Bright Futures” that is the foundation of the event.

    “We really look forward to presenting this unique and interesting cultural show at the event, which will tell the story of our community in a way that’s never really been done before. We want all the attendees and those watching from home to connect with a program that shows the Indian-American community and understand what drives our community to be part of the larger American experience,” said Gitesh Desai, spokesperson for the event.

    The live audience will be the largest gathering for an invited foreign leader visiting the United States other than the Pope. The “Howdy Modi” summit has been organized with the support of more than 1,000 volunteers and 650 Texas-based Welcome Partner organizations.

    This unique event brings together the President of the world’s most influential democracy, the Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy, and a bipartisan delegation of Governors, Members of Congress, Mayors, and other public officials.

     

     

     

  • Modi Visit will further Strengthen India-US Ties

    Modi Visit will further Strengthen India-US Ties

    Prof. Indrajit S Saluja

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to the US after his party’s landslide victory in elections in last May is being viewed as an affirmation of the friendly relations between the  two nations . To add to it is the decision of President Trump to attend the reception being accorded to Modi by the 50,000 strong  gathering of Indian Americans,  in Houston on Sunday, September 22 which has brought in to focus the personal friendly relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi.

    However, besides the optics of the presence of the two leaders together , there is  much more to Modi’s visit and the presence of Trump at Houston. It is believed the two leaders will focus on certain very important global issues , one of  which may be  the latest attack on oilfields in Saudi Arabia for which US is laying blame at the door of Iran. The heightened tensions between US and Iran have rung alarm bells all over the world. Surely, the world does not want a new zone of conflict in the Middle East. President Trump may well seek Modi’s cooperation in tightening the noose around Iran’s neck. Already, Trump  has ordered stiffer sanctions against Iran.

    President Trump may also discuss with Modi the situation in Afghanistan and his plans to withdraw forces from that country. Modi may update Trump on situation in Kashmir and try to dispel any doubts in Trump’s mind about human rights violations in Kashmir Valley.

    The  exchange of views on various global issues just a few days before they address the UN General Assembly will help them calibrate their responses. However, on the issue of global warming, they will be poles apart. Modi is passionately supportive of environmental protection and firmly believes in threats of global warming while  Trump simply scoffs at the idea, much to the chagrin of  environmentalists and  a whole range of nations.

    The two leaders will surely be seeking to enhance trade and commerce between their two countries.  India will be looking forward to restoration of the most favored nation status. On the cards may be oil and natural gas exports from US to India, besides a whole range of issues.

    Indians all over the world, in particular, the Indian American community, will watch with interest the outcome of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US.

  • Meaning and Impact of Trump-Modi Axis

    Meaning and Impact of Trump-Modi Axis

    The author feels confident that Trump-Modi axis and “Close ally” relationship between US and India  will blossom for the benefit of  both countries and  promote world peace and security.

    By Ven Parmeswaran

    “One wonders why Trump goes out of the conventional diplomacy and protocol to woo Modi and Indian Americans.   For Trump, the single most important goal is to get reelected in 2020. Trump will do anything to add every vote from the Indian Americans.   By demonstrating his “Close ally” relationship  and reinforcing it in front of 50,000 Indian Americans, Trump wants to advertise that he is a true friend of India .   Although the majority of Indian Americans are Democrats, Trump’s friendly gesture and support of Modi and India will definitely influence  Indian Americans.”

    On Sunday, September 22, 2019, President Trump will travel to Houston, Texas to underscore the important ‘Close ally” partnership between the USA and India.  History will be made when President Trump appears with Prime Minister Modi, who will address a gathering of over 50,000 Indian Americans.

    This will be the first time, American TV networks, especially Fox Cable will cover Indian Prime Minister because of the presence of President Trump.  This is a huge benefit to Modi and India and an opportunity to communicate to all Americans.  I hope Prime Minister Modi will find it fit to speak in English to capitalize on the opportunity.

    WHAT IS THE MEANING AND IMPACT OF TRUMP-MODI AXIS?

    President Trump and Prime Minister Modi met recently in Japan.  This was followed by the G-7 meeting in France, where Modi was invited by the French President.   When Modi told Trump that he was visiting Houston to address the Indian Americans, Trump expressed interest in attending and Modi invited him.

    Modi has had several meetings ever since Trump was elected President in 2016.  So far, all their meetings were friendly and cordial. If one only observed the body language contained  in the photographs covering their rather frequent encounters, bear hugs, smiles, handshakes and hand holdings one cannot but conclude that they represent true friendship and love between the USA and India.

    WHY TRUMP WOOS INDIAN AMERICANS?

    One wonders why Trump goes out of the conventional diplomacy and protocol to woo Modi and Indian Americans.   For Trump, the single most important goal is to get reelected in 2020.  Trump will do anything to add every vote from the Indian Americans.   By demonstrating his “Close ally” relationship  and reinforcing it in front of 50,000 Indian Americans, Trump wants to advertise that he is a true friend of India .   Although the majority of Indian Americans are Democrats, Trump’s friendly gesture and support of Modi and India will definitely influence Indian Americans.   Trump-Modi meeting in Texas will definitely have far reaching ramifications in India and the USA.  This meeting could be a footnote of all future US-India relations!

    Thus, it is now well established that the Indian Americans are  an important factor in US-India relations.  They played an important role in George W Bush giving India Civil Nuclear Deal and lifting  30-year technology sanctions.   Contrast this with Trump’s new policy of allowing India to transfer 100% of all US technologies.

    Trump and Modi will be speaking before the United Nations General Assembly next week.  It is also customary for the US President to meet with important leaders.  Therefore, Trump will be meeting Modi once again after his meeting in Houston.  For effective diplomacy and close friendship frequent meetings create opportunities.

    U.S.—CHINA RELATIONS

    President Trump has called on the American businesses to find an alternative to China.  China has violated intellectual property rights. Negotiations on trade have not been going well.  There is a tug of war with China.  One could even say there is some kind of Cold War between the US and China.

    This is a great opportunity for India to capitalize.    India has a comparative advantage over China and the USA.  India has an oversupply of professionals and skilled labor.  Indian has a never- ending supply of engineers, MBA’s, biotechnologists, and other professionals.   Modi is confronted with the problem of huge unemployment.    American economy has been lagging due to shortage of engineers and technologists. India can solve this problem of America, even as providing jobs to Indians.

    Geopolitically, India is the only country that can replace China in population and location. India is the largest English-speaking country in the world.  This is one of the reasons why there are more than 25 CEO’s of Indian origin in Fortune 500 corporations including Microsoft, Google, Fedex and others.  Apart from the CEOs, almost every major US .corporation has several Indians occupying senior management positions immediately below the CEO.

    AFGHANISTAN

    President Trump has been seeking India’s help in stabilizing Afghanistan.  India has told Trump that unless and until Pakistan withdraws its full support of Taliban, no progress could be made.  India has also convinced Trump that Pakistan must imprison the leaders of various terror organizations including LeT, JeM, JuD responsible for attacks on the city of Mumbai  and Indian Parliament.   President Trump has been pressuring Pakistan, but Pakistan so far has failed to arrest and imprison the terror leaders that the U.N. has identified.    Once Pakistan withdraws its full support to  Taliban, India should be able to help in the stability of Afghanistan.  India should be even able to send its army to help Afghanistan maintain peace and stability.

    MODERNIZATION OF INDIA

    President Trump has allowed Lockheed Martin, United Technologies, Boeing and others to start manufacturing sophisticated military hardware in India.  Such a venture could bring down the cost of production of military hardware for American and world consumption.   If Modi cooperates and creates favorable environment for foreign private investment, the Indian GDP could easily go up from under 6% now to 10 to 12%.   India cannot solve the unemployment problem without creating export-oriented industries. If India were to emulate what China did in 1979, India could easily modernize within the next 5 to 10 years.

    I feel therefore confident that Trump-Modi axis and “Close ally” relationship will blossom for the benefit of Trump-Modi axis and “Close ally” relationship between US and India will blossom for the benefit of both countries and  promote world peace and security.

    (Ven Parameswaran, Senior Adviser, Imagindia Institute, New Delhi ; Chairman, Asian American Republican Committee.  He can be reached at  vpwaren@gmail.com)

     

  • Modi, Trump at Houston will be all about quid pro quo

    Modi, Trump at Houston will be all about quid pro quo

    By Robinder Nath Sachdev

    Why would Trump travel to Houston? Surely not to only attend the community event with Modi. It will have to be for something far more than this. Though by attending the event, Trump could well stand to gain political mileage with the Indian American community, or is Trump doing a favor by joining the event?

    When Modi roars “Howdy America”, it will be answered by a resounding “Howdy, Modi” by Trump. Quid pro Quo. Hello, Houston, we have a deal.

    The ducks seem to be lining up for President Donald Trump to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Indian American community event slated to be held on September 22 at Houston.

    Modi will take the megaphone to address the Indian American community at the 50,000-capacity NRG Stadium, at an event titled as “Howdy America”. Now imagine that Trump is also at the event. Optopolitics of the rarest kind will emanate and follow from the combination.

    Will both leaders enter together, walk through the aisles, waving at the crowds, and reach the stage together? Will Modi start his address, and Trump sit and listen to the 40-60 minutes of Modi’s speech? And then, will Trump address the audience for 20-30 minutes? Chances are slim for this scenario to play out, for many reasons.

    Rather, some alternative version will be on display. One efficient option can be that Modi addresses the audience, and just as he is ending the address, Trump walks in, shouts out a “Howdy Modi!”, and joins and hugs Modi on stage, to rousing cheers. And then, Modi and Trump together, hand in hand, exit the reception, as the crowd keeps cheering to the roof. Trump comes to take his friend Modi, and they together go for a summit meeting.

    The optics and politics of Trump at the community event will be powerful. Why would Trump travel to Houston? Surely not to only attend the community event with Modi. It will have to be for something far more than this. Though by attending the event, Trump could well stand to gain political mileage with the Indian American community, or is Trump doing a favor by joining the event?

    Or, Trump could please the crowds by making a short announcement that he will soon be visiting India? A visit by Trump to India in next 3-4 months is of high importance, perhaps as chief guest to the pageantry of the Republic Day Parade at New Delhi on January 26, 2020.

    In any case, remember that there will also need to be some nimble political choreography on site at the community event to keep the messaging on track. After all, majority of the Indian American crowd is not very enthusiastic about Trump, and many of the US lawmakers who will be there to welcome Modi are no supporters of Trump.

    With the community event done, both leaders will move to hold the summit meeting. This is where the next quid pro quo will unfold. Will it be a mega oil and energy deal between the United States and India? Houston being the oil capital of the world, it will make sense as a venue to announce such a deal. If India does so, then what is the quid pro quo that the United States will offer to India?

    Or, will it also be about large-scale shifting of American companies to India from China, with some marquee announcements? What about a strong signal from America for an FTA (Free Trade Agreement) deal? India is worryingly short of what to do to tackle its current economic slowdown. A green flag on FTA will push US investments into India, away from China, and will therefore be a significant confidence building measure for the Indian market, and economy. If the US does this signaling, then what is the quid pro quo offered by India?

    In any case in matters of trade, there are several items outstanding – ranging from trade deficit, tariffs, market access, to intellectual property rights, and many more. Moving forward on these, in the spirit of quid pro quo and some exchange of favors, moving towards a roadmap for an FTA could, therefore, be a logical path and outcome of the summit.

    What else can be a bold, innovative exchange between the two leaders, at Houston? On defense? Though there can be some large deal on defense, there, however, cannot be a clean break by India in favor of the United States with the total exclusion of Russian supplies in future. The US seems to be realizing this, and India also seems to be doing some introspection in this matter.

    On Afghanistan? This is one area, where both leaders could do some major innovation. India could provide boots on the ground in Afghanistan – to ring fence and protect the US camps and troops remaining in Afghanistan after the drawdown ordered by Trump. If decided by India, this can be a quantum game changer.

    Right now, India may be at a stage where the geostrategic interests might weigh in favor of such a step by India. If India decides so, then the quid pro quo from the US must be something that India gets in exchange that is similarly ground-breaking, and with commensurate value for India. What can be this value that India might demand?

    Of course, there are a host of other topics too, equally important, that shall be discussed, like counter terrorism, Pakistan behavior in the Af-Pak, PoK, and Kashmir, and a range of other bilateral, regional, and global issues, including reform of world bodies, like the United Nations and WTO.

    Surprisingly, one big ticket area, which has seen silence so far is related to 5G and Huawei. After the Osaka G-20 summit, Ivanka Trump had made a short announcement about the topics discussed. In that announcement, she had said that the two countries have decided to work together in a big way to develop 5G technologies. This can be a game changer.

    If the two countries collaborate on 5G it will be a massive exercise in R&D, finance, talent, entrepreneurial and vendor eco-system, market adoption and success in the face of competition from Huawei and the Europeans. Will the US shepherd billions of dollars in the 5G sector to India, so that the latter stays away from Huawei, and the products developed via the US-India collaboration be used in the Indian, US, and other world markets, too?

    All the above can be discussed at New York, or in Washington DC, where again there is supposed to be a bilateral between Trump and Modi. What was the need for a separate, additional summit at Houston? Or, is it that the Houston rendezvous will piggy-back on the momentum of the community event, announce one mega-deal on oil, announce a state visit by Trump to India, and the rest will be taken up in New York or Washington?

    When Modi roars “Howdy America”, it will be answered by a resounding “Howdy, Modi” by Trump. Quid pro Quo. Hello, Houston, we have a deal.

    (Robinder Nath Sachdev is President of The Imagindia Institute. The views expressed here are personal)

  • India-New Jersey: A New Chapter Begins with Governor Phil Murphy’s Visit

    India-New Jersey: A New Chapter Begins with Governor Phil Murphy’s Visit

    Bidisha Roy

    NEW JERSEY / NEW DELHI(TIP): New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and the New Jersey delegation had action-packed days on their economic development mission to India. Governor Murphy, First Lady Tammy Murphy, Deputy Chief of Mission Edgard Kagan and NJEDA’s Wesley Mathews met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They discussed Indian-New Jersey relations and their economic vision for the future. Working together, they can build a stronger and fairer future for both the people of New Jersey and India.

    On Sept 17, Murphy met with External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar

    On Sept 17, he met with External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. “Proud to meet External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar today to talk about the India-New Jersey relationship, based on our shared values of inclusivity, progress, and growth for all”, Governor Murphy tweeted.

    The opening of the New Jersey India Center in Gurugram kicked off Governor Murphy’s seven-day, six-city economic mission trip to India. Governor Murphy is the first Governor in New Jersey history to visit India on official business. “Today’s historic announcement charts a new course and effort to increase economic opportunities and build relationships between New Jersey and India,” said Governor Murphy. “Expanding operations into India will further Choose New Jersey’s goal to attract global businesses to New Jersey. With this new office, we will be able to bring our state’s message of economic prosperity directly to India.”

    During his visit to the Southern State of Telangana, Governor Murphy signed first-ever sister state partnership

    Governor Murphy, along with Edgard D. Kagan, Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi and Jose Lozano of Choose New Jersey, announced the opening of the Choose New Jersey India Centre with T&A Consulting. “My number one priority has been to foster an unrivalled economic ecosystem where innovative and game-changing companies – including Indian companies – can find a home and succeed,” said Governor Murphy. “India can be one of our leading partners in New Jersey’s re-emerging dominance in the global innovation economy, and New Jersey can be a leading partner in India’s continued economic rise.”

    Choose New Jersey and VentureLink at NJIT signed an MOU with the National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) to promote cross-border trade through innovation, investments and technology partnerships between New Jersey and India. Through this partnership, NASSCOM member companies considering expansion into New Jersey will be provided 90 days of complimentary space at VentureLink@NJIT’s International Business Center while they explore opportunities to do business in New Jersey.

    Governor Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy witnessed the signing of two MOUs with Princeton University to help promote the development of renewable energy, bringing us closer to a sustainable future. “Sustainability and fostering the transition away from fossil fuel-based energy and toward renewable sources is a future which all of us are committed to, and a future the actions taken today will help create,” said Governor Murphy. One MOU will induct two Princeton University post-graduate/doctoral students to work on-site on clean energy research with ReNew Power – India’s largest independent producer of renewable energy. The second MOU, between Princeton University’s Andlinger Center for Energy and the IIT Delhi Centre of Excellence, will establish a collaboration on renewable energy and sustainability-related research.

    Governor Murphy addressed the U.S.-India Business Council and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry and made the case that India can be one of New Jersey’s leading partners in the re-emergence of the state’s dominance in the global innovation economy. New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s Tim Sullivan highlighted opportunities for growth and partnership, including New Jersey’s pharma, tech, and advanced manufacturing sectors – along with India’s growing clean energy and film and media sectors.

    First Lady Tammy Murphy met with the deputy head of UNICEF India and had a thought-provoking conversation on women and children’s health issues and discussion of best practices. The First Lady learned about UNICEF India programs, which cover areas such as child protection, child marriage, adolescents, education, empowerment, and maternal health services. UNICEF India plays a critical role in supporting children and families, especially mothers. “I hope that our growing partnership between New Jersey and India helps us both learn how to better protect our children,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy.

    Governor Murphy and the First Lady paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi

    Governor Murphy and the New Jersey delegation toured historic and holy sites, including the Taj Mahal in Agra. Governor Murphy and the First Lady paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, India’s foremost freedom fighter. During a visit to Gandhi Smriti, they also penned a message in the visitor book. They were given a tour of the Jama Masjid. Located in central Delhi. Governor Murphy toured the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple and expressed his deepest gratitude to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj for his gracious welcome.

    Governor Murphy toured the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

    During his visit to the Southern State of Telangana, Governor Murphy signed first-ever sister state partnership.

    Governor Murphy and wife Tammy Murphy were given a tour of the Jama Masjid in central Delhi

    “Great to be with @KTRofficethis morning as we signed our first-ever sister state partnership in India with the State of Telangana, creating and expanding partnerships in our IT, pharma, clean energy, education, and film sectors” he tweeted.

    “By furthering clean energy cooperation between New Jersey and Telangana, we can build economies fit for the 21st century while protecting the best interests of our people and our environment. Grateful to@indianchamber15for convening this important discussion. #NJIndiaMission.”

    “Thrilled to announce an MOU between @THubHydand @NJITand to hear pitches from startups increasing their presence in NJ. We all win when we forge new partnerships and take a chance on new and world-changing ideas”, Governor Murphy further tweeted.

    In return, India’s Consul General in New York Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty thanked him. “Thanks @GovMurphyfor your personal commitment to strong relations with India. I am confident that the New Delhi office of @ChooseNJwill be its best”, Amb Chakravorty tweeted.

  • Indian American SBU Students Chosen for Selective Millennium Fellows Program

    Indian American SBU Students Chosen for Selective Millennium Fellows Program

    NEW YORK(TIP): Two India Americans are among Eleven Stony Brook students among a select group from 69 colleges around the globe chosen for the Millennium Fellowship, a partnership between the Millennium Campus Network and the United Nations Academic Impact initiative and the Millennium Campus Network. The students are all working on various projects that focus on the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    Lakshta Kundal and Agam Singh have been selected to be Millennium Fellows. This year there was a record 7,020 applications for this selective program from young leaders on 1,209 campuses across 135 nations.

    Lakshta Kundal’s Plastic-Free Project (PFP) serves to educate, challenge, and inspire college students to shift from conventional to conscious living. PFP calls all students to take part in a 21-day challenge uniquely designed to help them develop eco-conscious lifestyle habits to tackle today’s most pressing environmental issues, especially ocean pollution, with the opportunity to win prizes and awards.

    Launched in 2018, the selective Millennium Fellowship is a semester-long leadership development program. Students receive the fellowship based on their leadership on sustainable development-related projects that advance the SDGs in their communities. As Millennium Fellows, they will participate in a leadership development program to improve their student organizing, partnership building and community impact skills.

     

     

     

  • Indian American Obama Aide Named COO of Biden Campaign

    Indian American Obama Aide Named COO of Biden Campaign

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Team Biden has hired Maju Varghese, a top Obama White House aide to help run the operational side of the Biden campaign. Varghese has been hired by former Vice President Joe Biden’s presidential campaign as its Chief Operating Officer and Senior Advisor.

    Varghese served as an assistant to former President Barack Obama for management and administration and as deputy director of advance at the White House, where he managed day-to-day operations.

    “Nice to see the field come around and support @BarackObamaagain. Thing is, @JoeBidenhas been there all along. We need to build on the Obama legacy, not tear it down. That’s why I stand with Joe Biden”, he tweeted.

     

     

  • Indian-American Couple’s Single Largest Donation Opens New Era of Opportunity for Students

    Indian-American Couple’s Single Largest Donation Opens New Era of Opportunity for Students

    CLEARWATER, FL(TIP): Nova Southeastern University’s (NSU) new Tampa Bay Regional Campus has debuted in Clearwater, Fla, which was made possible through a generous donation by Drs. Kiran C. and Pallavi Patelof $230 million to NSU – $80 million.

    The 311,000-square-foot facility at 3400 Gulf to Bay Boulevard features cutting-edge classrooms, expansive common areas and a two-story fitness center.

    “We are immensely proud of this beautiful and state-of-the-art campus, a true Herculean effort by Moss, Baker Barrios, ACAI, all of our contractors, and of course, our dedicated NSU team,” said Dr. George Hanbury, President and CEO of NSU. “However, none of this would have been possible without Drs. Patel and their generous contributions of their time, their talent and their fortune.”

    In celebration of its arrival and NSU’s expanded footprint in Florida, the university in collaboration with Drs. Kiran C. and Pallavi Patel held a ribbon cutting to mark this significant occasion. More than 500 attendees came out to participate in the revelry and to take in the completed building and grounds.

    NSU has been providing a wide range of educational programs in the Tampa Bay area since 1991. The new campus offers a broader curriculum and when fully occupied, it will have approximately 2,000 students and 125 faculty and staff.

    The Tampa Bay Regional Campus is home to several educational programs, including serving as a branch site for NSU’s Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine. It welcomed its first class of 150 students in August 2019.

    “It is more important than ever to advance the current state of health care,” said Dr. Kiran C. Patel. ““I believe that NSU is the future of multi-disciplinary medical education and together, we will be able to capitalize on an opportunity that will be beneficial to millions of human lives–many right here in Florida and so many others around the globe.”

    This new campus is home to the Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing, the Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences, NSU’s College of Psychology and the Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Some of the areas of study include cardiovascular sonography and speech language communication disorders programs, master’s degree candidates in anesthesia, clinical mental health counseling, criminal justice, developmental disabilities, family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health, school counseling, speech-language pathology and national security affairs and several online programs.

    The NSU campus will focus on providing dynamic, personalized, multi-disciplinary education for graduates who want to become leaders with an edge over their competition in the workforce.

     

     

  • Indian Americans from New York Arrested for Distributing Millions of Opioid Pills Imported from India

    Indian Americans from New York Arrested for Distributing Millions of Opioid Pills Imported from India

    NEW YORK(TIP): On Sept 12, a complaint was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging eight defendants of Indian origin, Ezhil Sezhian Kamaldoss, Harpreet Singh, Parthiban Narayanasamy, Baljeet Singh, Deepak Manchanda, Gulab, Mukul Chugh and Vikas M. Verma with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance containing Tramadol, a synthetic opioid.  The defendants were arrested Sept 12 morning and made initial appearances before United States Magistrate Judge Lois Bloom.

    Since approximately January 2018, law enforcement agents with FDA-OCI, USPIS, HSI, CBP, DEA, FBI and other agencies have been investigating the large-scale importation of misbranded controlled substances, including Tramadol, into the United States from India.  As part of the defendants’ scheme, distributors in India shipped misbranded Tramadol and other drugs to individuals and entities in the United States through the U.S. mail and other commercial couriers.  The defendants primarily operated out of a warehouse in Queens where they repackaged the pills and mailed them to customers throughout the United States.  The defendants maintained daily ledgers detailing the names, addresses, pill size and pill amounts ordered by customers.  During the course of the investigation, the defendants distributed millions of Tramadol pills.

    Ezhil Sezhian Kamaldoss is also charged with money laundering.  If convicted, Ezhil Sezhian Kamaldoss faces up to 25 years’ imprisonment.  The remaining defendants each face up to five years’ imprisonment.

  • Dhruva Jaishankar Named Director of ORF US Initiative

    Dhruva Jaishankar Named Director of ORF US Initiative

    NEW YORK (TIP): Dhruva Jaishankar, the son of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, has been named Observer Research Foundation (ORF) think tank’s Director of its US Initiative.

    His research has spanned issues such as India-US relations, India’s relations in Asia and the Indo-Pacific, the interaction of technology with politics, and defense and national security. From 2012 to 2016, at the German Marshall Fund in Washington DC, Dhruva managed the India Trilateral Forum — a policy dialogue involving participants from India, Europe, and the United States.

    Dhruva has been a David Rockefeller Fellow with the Trilateral Commission and an IISS-SAIS Merrill Center Young Strategist. He contributes regularly to the Indian and international media on security and international affairs.

    ORF began its journey in 1990 at the juncture of ideation tempered by pragmatism. During the period of India’s transition to a new engagement with the international economic order, several challenges emerged, evoking a need for an independent forum that could critically examine the problems facing the country and help develop coherent policy responses. ORF was thus formed, and brought together, for the first time, leading Indian economists and policymakers to present the agenda for India’s economic reforms.

    ORF’s aim is to encourage voices from all quarters, geographies and gender, both those that fall in and those that question dominant narratives. It is this plurality of thought and voice — in a country of over a billion individuals — that ORF seeks to carry abroad, while simultaneously bringing contemporary global debates to India.

  • September 20 New York & Dallas Print Editions

    September 20 New York & Dallas Print Editions

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  • IAAC’s 2019 EB Dance Festival

    IAAC’s 2019 EB Dance Festival

    By Mabel Pais

    The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC) is organizing the 11th Annual Erasing Borders Dance Festival (EBDF), a 3-day festival from September 14 to 16, consisting of:

    • Dance CONCERT in Queens, New York, on September 14th 7PM – 9PMat the Community Center, 143-09 Holly Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355
    • WORKSHOPS on September 15th 1:30PM – 4:30PMat the Alvin AileyCitigroup Theatre, 405 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019
    • Dance CONCERT on September 15, 5PM – 7PMat the Alvin AileyCitigroup Theatre, 405 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019

    Discussion: Dancing Identityon September 16, 1:10PM – 2.25PMand bharatanatyam masterclass by Radhe Jaggi on September 16, 4:10PM – 5:25 PM at Barnard College,3009 Broadway, New York, NY 10027.

    About EB Dance

    Established in 2008, the prestigious Erasing Borders Dance Festival (EBDF) presents both emerging and established dancers and choreographers. IAAC is proud to note that many of the new and emerging artists it has presented in the past went on to perform extensively with international recognition.

    Each year, the curatorial team strives to bring the audience outstanding original works from various parts of the world. This year’s bounty of applications coalesced around representations of identity as fluid and as challenging or highlighting the role of tradition in our lives. How do we understand ourselves, our traditions, within our current locations in nationalist, immigrant and global scenarios? Raw, or finely honed, this year’s program highlights the many ways in which dancers ‘play’ with tradition and inform a creative aesthetic of the 21st century.

    This year, the lineup includes –

    Radhe Jaggi

    Radhe Jaggi:Sankara Srigiri
    Sankara Srigiriis a kriti describing the dance of Shiva in the Chit Sabha(the Hall of Consciousness). His body smeared with ash, His third eyes shining upon His forehead, with a garland of skulls adorning His chest, Shiva danced the Celestial Dance. The bells of His anklet resound while the sages and deities watch in wonder. He is accompanied on instruments by all the gods who have gathered to watch. The dance is composed by Leela Samson.

    Parijat Desai

    Parijat Desai:Pardon My Heart
    Pardon My Heart, by choreographer Parijat Desai, reimagines the lovelorn nayika (heroine) of medieval Sufi period – now she’s a bit more melodramatic, and speaks in contemporary verse. Desai weaves dance together with recitation of verse by American poet Marcus Jackson and legendary Pakistani reformer Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Her choreography is set to new arrangements of Ravi Shankar’s “Chaturang Tarana” and a Khayal in Raag Nat Bihag. On Sunday, Desai will be accompanied by a stellar ensemble: Kiran Ahluwalia (vocal), Neel Murgai (sitar), Arun Ramamurthy (violin), Ehren Hansen (tabla). On Saturday, she will perform to a unique arrangement of the original Tarana and Khayal recordings, by sound designer Stephan Moore.

    Kalamandir Dance Ensemble

    Kalamandir Dance Company: UrbanJatra

    Drawing from their roots of traditional Kathak movements and combining them with a contemporary movement vocabulary, this performance creates a theatrical effect of Jatra – community theatre. Solo Kathak footwork complements the synchronized movement by an ensemble for a visual juxtaposition of the traditional and contemporary.

    Indian Raga

    IndianRaga:Tradition in Transition
    IndianRaga’s work seeks to prove that innovation and traditionare not mutually exclusive. “Shiva Shambho” offers a new take on classical nritta, weaving in aspects of Shiva with intense footwork and dramatic poses. “Depression” exhibits the everyday struggle of living with mental illness. We see the future of Indian classical dance as highly relevant to the present day, and one that can transcend cultural, religious, and social boundaries.

    New York audiences will have a chance to catch these performances on 2 evenings –

    Saturday, September 14, 2019 7 PM – 9 PM Community Center, 143-09 Holly Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355 (Indian Raga will not be part of this concert)

    And

    Sunday, September 15, 2019 5 PM – 7 PM The Alvin Ailey Citigroup Theatre, 405 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019

    In addition to these performances, there will also be workshops and panels on September 15 and 16.

    Apart from the performers and curators, panelists include:

    Nolini Barretto

    Nolini Barrettooriginally a Chhau dancer in India who has long been part of the New York arts community. Most recently, Nolini founded the site-specific performance series, Sitelines, which she curated and produced for six years at the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. Nolini served on the Bessies Committee (New York Dance and Performance Awards) from 2007 to 2014 and was the Co-Curator of DFA’s Dance on Camera Festival at Lincoln Center in July 2019.

    Aparna Ramaswamy

    Aparna Ramaswamydescribed as “rapturous and profound” by The New York Times, is Co-Artistic Director of Ragamala Dance Company. Aparna is a senior disciple of the legendary Bharatanatyam dancer Padma Bhushan Smt. Alarme`l Valli. Aparna’s awards include a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Doris Duke Performing Artist Award, a Joyce Award and more. She has been commissioned by Lincoln Center, Walker Art Center, American Dance Festival, the Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi and The Kennedy Center, among others.

    Tamar Rogoff
    Photos/ Courtesy IAAC

    Tamar Rogoffwill be leading a workshop on narrative dance. As artistic director of Tamar Rogoff Performance Projects she does inclusive, multidisciplinary, multigenerational, and site-specific performance and film. She has developed body scripting, an experiential approach that informs her lifelong teaching and choreographic process. Her work has been shown at P.S. 122, LaMaMa, Lincoln Center and abroad. Rogoff choreographed for Claire Danes at P.S. 122 and was her movement coach for HBO’s Temple Grandin. She has been funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, Rockefeller MAP Grant, NYFA, Sundance, IFP and was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship.

    For more Details and to purchase Tickets for the Erasing Borders Dance Festival, visithttps://iaac.us/erasing-borders-dance-festival/

    ABOUT INDO-AMERICAN ARTS COUNCIL:
    The IAAC supports all the artistic disciplines in classical, fusion, folk and innovative forms influenced by the arts of India. We work cooperatively with colleagues around the United States to broaden our collective audiences and to create a network for shared information, resources and funding. Our focus is to help artists and art organizations in North America as well as to facilitate artists from India to exhibit, perform and produce their work here. The IAAC is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law. For further information, visit www.iaac.us.
    Indo-American Arts Council Inc. 303 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1007, New York, NY 10016. Phone: 212 594 3685, Fax: 212 594 8476 Email: admin@IAAC.usWeb: www.IAAC.us

    (Mabel Pais writes on the Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, and Health & Wellness.  She can be reached at mabelep1406@gmail.com)

  • Indian Police Officer Chhaya Sharma named Asia Game Changers Award Winner by Asia Society New York

    Indian Police Officer Chhaya Sharma named Asia Game Changers Award Winner by Asia Society New York

    NEW YORK(TIP): Indian IPS Officer Chhaya Sharma, the erstwhile DCP South Delhi who cracked the 2012 Nirbhaya rape case, has been named one of the ‘2019 Asia Game Changers’byAsia society New York for ‘solving India’s biggest crimes and building a better society.’

    On September 11, 2019,​ Asia Society announced its 2019 Asia Game Changers, a group of inspiring and path-breaking women ​who are making a transformative impact in Asia and beyond.  ​In partnership with Citi, Asia Society annually honors game-changing ​leaders from a broad geographic range and varied backgrounds; this year marks the first​ time that all of the honorees are women.

    “Our 2019 Asia Game Changers are women who have truly championed gender equality while making enormous contributions to society and social structures within their home countries,” Asia Society President and CEO ​Josette Sheeran​ said. “They are inspiring agents of change who are building a better world — for women and for everyone — by changing the rules, changing the game, and challenging all of us to follow their lead.”

    When South Delhi Deputy Police Commissioner Chhaya Sharma received a call shortly after 2 a.m. on December 16, 2012, she responded immediately. The brutal, fatal gang rape of a 23-year-old student and assault on her male friend shook India to its core, inciting large-scale protests against the gruesome nature of the crime, together with a demand for justice for the victims.

    Sharma vowed that justice would be served. As a woman leading a team of more than 40 investigators, she came to the case with a track record of not only solving some of Delhi’s toughest crimes, but also fundamentally shifting how such police work was carried out.

    But the gang rape was different. With no witnesses at all, except the victims of the brutal crime, it was a challenge to identify and trace the perpetrators. “It was,” she admits, “like looking for a needle in the haystack.”

    Sharma and her team pulled at every thread, launching a multistate manhunt that managed to apprehend all six suspects in just six days. Her meticulous approach to evidence gathering was instrumental to the process, and a model for future investigations. The charge sheet was filed in a record 18 days, withstood various stages of judicial scrutiny all the way to the Supreme Court, and resulted in a conviction with maximum punishment. The investigation also received a special citation from the Supreme Court of India for its exemplary evidence-gathering.

    The impact has been profound. In the intervening years, the Indian government has opened hundreds of fast-track courts to try rape cases in a timely manner and pushed for a more victim-centered approach in police investigations. It’s a model Sharma has advocated from the start.

    As the first woman South Delhi deputy police commissioner, she has guided her officers to treat victims with the utmost respect and dignity, regardless of their background. Today, she serves as deputy inspector general at the National Human Rights Commission of India — a position befitting a lifelong guardian of human rights.

  • CUNY Ethics & Morality Essay Contest: Virtue

    CUNY Ethics & Morality Essay Contest: Virtue

     Deadline: October 21, 2019

    NEW YORK(TIP): Funded by an endowment from the Chynn Family Foundation, this annual award  is intended to promote and stimulate thinking by college students at CUNY about the topic of ethics, morality, and virtuous behavior in their lives. Students are asked to submit a 1000 to 1500 word essay based on one of eleven virtues and to incorporate the following:

    Tell us about your own experience in practicing the Virtue you have chosen to write about and what personal reward or satisfaction have you gained from it.

    Why do you think the Virtue that you chose was an important one to practice in your life?

    What obstacles did you encounter in practicing this particular Virtue and how did you, or do you, still strive to overcome difficulties?

    Top three essays will be awarded the following prizes:

    Best Essay ($1,000)

    First Runner-up ($300)

    Second Runner-up ($200)

    For more information: www.aaari.info

  • Dr Annapoorna Kini, Kanubhai Patel, Dr Tarun Wasil, Chanchal Devi Shah , Vaishali Deshmukh Honored at AIA New York Chapter Deepavali Benefit Gala

    Dr Annapoorna Kini, Kanubhai Patel, Dr Tarun Wasil, Chanchal Devi Shah , Vaishali Deshmukh Honored at AIA New York Chapter Deepavali Benefit Gala

    WOODBURY, NY(TIP): Association of Indians in America New York Chapter organized  their 32ndDeepavali Annual Benefit Fundraising Gala on Saturday, Sept 7, at elegant  Crest Hollow Country Club Woodbury.

    A Thali dance by young dancer, Dr. Neela Zareen set off the evening program attended  by a large gathering, which included  the  Deputy CG, Mr. Shatrughna  Sinha,  Past presidents of AIA, community leaders  and the media.

    President Harish Thakkar  addressed the audience briefly highlighting AIA, NY chapter’s activities and  the Annual Deepavali  festival which attracts huge crowds at the South Street Seaport

    With its pioneering efforts over the past three decades AIA has brought Indian culture, food and dances to the grassroot population. With the Annual Gala’s fund-raising efforts,  AIA marches ahead for grand Deepavali festival in Manhattan with various cultural dances on stage, food, jewelry, clothing and artifacts vendors.

    Dr. Samin Sharma honoring Smt Chanchal Devi Shah, mother of Naveen Shah

    The AIA, at the gala, honored  Kanubhai Patel, Chairman of Amneal Pharmacy India Pvt. Ltd.,  Smt  Chanchal Devi Shah, mother of Mr Navin Shah, President and CEO of Navika Group,  Dr Annapoorna Kini,  Prof. of Cardiology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, Dr Tarun Wasil, an eminent Hematologist & Oncologist, and  the  young generation professional Vaishali Deshmukh, Pharm D, daughter to Dr. Satish  and Gitanjli Anand.

    Kanubhai Patel was  honored for being the leading entrepreneur of generic medicine made in USA. He is very well supported by his sons Chintu Patel and Chirag Patel and family for the  fast-growing company. Kanubhai’s vision , guidance and continued  efforts are helping Chintu Patel to take this company to higher level.

    Smt  Chanchal Devi Shah, mother of Mr Naveen Shah, Navika Group was awarded Family Pride award on behalf of the entire Shah family and was greatly appreciated by audience for guidance and nurturing of the entire family

    Deputy Consul General of India Shatrughna Sinha honoring Dr Annapoorna Kini Prof. of cardiology, Mount Sinai school of Medicine, New York

    Dr. Annapoorna Kini is a very well accomplished Interventional Cardiologist and runs the safest and busiest cardiac cath lab in the country.

    Deputy Consul General of India Shatrughna Sinha honoring Dr.Tarun Wasil

    Dr Tarun Wasil, an eminent Hematologist & Oncologist, greatly admired by his patients , nurses and colleagues for his critical knowledge,  expertise,  simplicity and sincerity in his art of Medicine. He is affiliated to Northwell system and continues to serve the community.

    For the first time with great vision & commitment, President and his team decided to present the  Family Pride Award to young generation professional Vaishali Deshmukh,  Pharm D.

    AIA President Harish Thakkar said of  Vaishali’s parents: “ No doubt,  continued support , nurturing guidance and support of the family go a  long way in bringing the best in growing young people in the family. And Dr. Satish and Gitanjli Anand  have  contributed a lot to the accomplishments of the young lady”.

    Vaishali Deshmkh holds the plaque of honor. To her right are her mother Gitanjli Anand and father Dr. Satish Anand. Also seen in the picture are her husband Amit Deshmukh, and other members of the family

    Vaishali, the  young Pharm D. from St John School of Pharmacy NY is working with CVS for the last 20 yrs. This year CVS picked  her for Paragon Award  which is given to only six in the whole USA among 10K Pharmacists and the only one in Northeast USA.

    Greatly admired by her colleagues, coworkers at all levels and managerial staff, Vaishali  is involved in grooming,  teaching , guiding new graduates,  and lectures to senior citizens,  at   nursing homes and schools on health- related subjects and immunization. She derives energy and commitment from the well supported family, specially her husband Pharmacist Amit Deshmukh. She considers her inspiration and grassroot support from her father, Dr. Satish Anand, a   medical doctor, now retired, and  mother Gitanjli Anand, a committed community leader at all levels. Her Family Pride award must inspire  the younger generation .

    Dr Nirmal and Tina Mattoo, Patrons Asmita and Arun Bhatia, Dr Neeta and Pramod Jain, Kanak and Prabha Golia, Vimal and Divya Goyal hugely supported the event.   Past presidents of AIA and  members of  community lent their support.  The AIA President and team said they valued the support and contribution from friends and patrons and look forward to welcoming them at the iconic Deepavali Mela on October 6.

  • Rousing welcome awaits Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Houston

    Rousing welcome awaits Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Houston

    PM  to address annual UN General Assembly session on September 27

    Modi-Trump meeting , a possibility

    NEW YORK(TIP): Nine  days before the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Houston, the city seems to be witnessing an unprecedented activity, probably never ever witnessed before. It is all to give a rousing reception to Prime Minister of India who will be addressing a mammoth gathering of  50,000, a number which has already registered for the event named  Howdy, Modi’ ,  on September 22.

    The historic event in Houston is intended  to showcase the influence of Indian American community.  This will be PM Modi’s 3rd major address to the Indian American community after he became  prime minister in 2014,  and the first after his re-election in May this year.

    Modi is likely to leave New Delhi for the US on September 21 and will first travel to Houston and then to New York from September 23 to 28.

    According to reports in Indian media, while he is planning to spend five days in New York, from September 23 to 28,  plans are being explored for a day-long visit to Washington DC for a bilateral meeting with the US President at the White House.

    It is learnt that Delhi and Washington are looking at September 25 and 26 as possible dates for the visit and a bilateral meeting between the Prime Minister and the US President.

    If it works out, then this will be his third visit to the White House in the last six years and third meeting with Trump this year. Modi had last visited White House in June 2017 when he met Trump. He went to the White House in September 2014 when then US President Barack Obama had hosted him.

    In New York, PM will address the annual UNGA session on September 27. As Prime Minister, Modi had given his maiden address to world leaders at the UNGA in 2014. His visit in September and address to world leaders at the UN will be the first after winning a second term as Prime Minister.

    In a bid to implement the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres will host the 2019 Climate Action Summit on September 23 which will be addressed by Modi.

    Modi will be felicitated by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for his leadership of the Swachch Bharat Mission. He will be presented with the 2019 Global Goalkeeper Award on September 24.

    As the world commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, Modi will also host a special event ‘Leadership Matters: Relevance of Gandhi in the Contemporary World’ on September 24 in the Economic and Social Council Chamber in the UN Headquarters.

    He will also be the keynote speaker at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum on September 25.

    Modi will also inaugurate the Gandhi Peace Garden, an innovative initiative to commemorate Gandhi’s 150 birth anniversary this year.

    Also on cards are some meetings with the Indian American community.

     

     

  • NJ Governor Phil Murphy begins Economic Mission Trip to India September 13

    NJ Governor Phil Murphy begins Economic Mission Trip to India September 13

    SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ(TIP):  With great expectations, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy  leads a seven-day, six-city economic mission trip to India  beginning September 13.

    The delegation will visit six cities, including Delhi, Agra, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Gandhinagar. The focus of the mission is to strengthen economic ties with one of New Jersey’s largest trade and investment partners, cultivate international investment opportunities in the Garden State, and deepen cultural and educational ties between New Jersey and India.

    “As India’s role as one of our key partners continues to expand, we want to make sure we maximize the potential of our economic relationship,” said Governor Murphy. “I am excited to make the case for New Jersey as a leading investment choice for Indian companies, creating lasting partnerships and good jobs for our residents. We are proud to be the home of one of America’s most deeply-rooted Indian American communities and growing our economic partnership will only strengthen those ties.”

    Governor Murphy’s activities and public events will include meetings with key government and industry leaders, including representatives of the life sciences, technology, clean energy, film and media, and manufacturing sectors, as well as company visits and announcements. New Jersey maintains very close ties with India culturally and economically, as India is New Jersey’s second largest foreign direct investor and Indian Americans represent the largest group of foreign-born residents in New Jersey. Moreover, over 50 percent of India’s foreign direct investment in the Northeast comes to New Jersey.

    “We are thrilled to be part of Governor Murphy’s economic mission to India in September,” said Jose Lozano, President & CEO of Choose New Jersey. “New Jersey is a leader in the life sciences, medical technology, clean energy and manufacturing, and we are the best place for international companies to do business. We look forward to strengthening our close cultural and economic ties with our partners in India during this trip and attracting more businesses to invest in the Garden State.”

    “In our increasingly interconnected world, driving international trade and investment is critical to making New Jersey a global competitor and building a foundation for long-term, sustainable economic growth,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “As the country with the third largest GDP in terms of purchasing power, India is already a formidable player in the international economy and the country’s influence is only continuing to grow. Governor Murphy’s trip is an important step forward that will pave the way for new business partnerships between New Jersey and India and bring more investment and jobs to the Garden State.”

    Governor Murphy will lead the delegation, which includes First Lady Tammy Murphy, Choose New Jersey President and CEO Jose Lozano, New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) CEO Tim Sullivan, and other senior administration and Choose New Jersey officials. Throughout the trip, the delegation will showcase New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem and highlight why New Jersey is the best place for the international community to do business.