An Indian-origin scientist in his research has found that reducing the risk of dementia in Alzheimer’s is possible by keeping diabetes well controlled or avoiding it in the first place.
Narendra Kumar, an associate professor at the US-based Texas A&M University, who led the study published in the journal ‘American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology’, found that diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease are strongly linked.
“By taking preventative or amelioration measures for diabetes, we can prevent or at least significantly slow down the progression of the symptoms of dementia in Alzheimer’s disease,” he said.
Diabetes and Alzheimer’s are two of the fastest-growing health concerns globally. Diabetes alters the body’s ability to turn food into energy and affects an estimated one in 10 US adults. Alzheimer’s is among the top 10 leading causes of death in the US, according to the study.
The researchers investigated how diet might affect the development of Alzheimer’s in people with diabetes.
They discovered that a high-fat diet reduces the expression of a specific protein in the gut called Jak3. Mice without this protein showed a chain of inflammation from the intestine to the liver and then to the brain. As a result, the mice displayed Alzheimer’s-like symptoms in the brain, along with cognitive impairment.
The researchers believe that the pathway from the gut to the brain involves the liver.
“Liver being the metaboliser for everything we eat, we think that the path from gut to the brain goes through the liver,” Kumar said.
They have been studying the functions of Jak3 for a long time and have found that changes in the expression of Jak3 due to food can lead to leaky gut, resulting in chronic inflammation, diabetes, reduced brain ability to clear toxic substances, and dementia-like symptoms seen in Alzheimer’s disease.
Source: IANS
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Managing diabetes could help prevent dementia, reveals study
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Dairy products to eat and avoid for better heart health
Dairy products are considered an important part of a balanced meal and are packed with essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, B vitamins, potassium and vitamin D, which are important at various developmental stages in kids and also as we grow old. However, when it comes to heart patients, dairy consumption must be approached carefully. Dairy products also have saturated fat which can boost LDL cholesterol levels and raise risk of heart diseases.
Especially, in case of people who already have heart illnesses, full fat dairy products can lead to cardiovascular complications. As per studies, moderate dairy intake, up to 200 grams per day, may not pose detrimental effects on cardiovascular health.
However, experts say dairy products should not be skipped altogether as they have a wealth of important nutrients that can benefit the body and the mind. While low fat milk, green yoghurt and cottage cheese receive thumbs up, full fat milk and cream cheese must always be consumed in moderation. In case you are looking for replacing dairy and other sources of saturated fat, unsaturated fat, such as nuts, avocados, or olive oil can be included in the diet.
Best dairy options for heart patients
For individuals with heart conditions, it is important to prioritize options low in saturated fat and cholesterol, as these components can exacerbate cardiovascular risk factors. Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, Chief Nutritionist, Apollo Hospital shares best and worst dairy products for people with heart conditions.
Low fat or skimmed milk
Optimal choices include low-fat or skim milk, offering essential nutrients with reduced saturated fat content.
Low fat yoghurt
Similarly, low-fat yogurt, particularly plain varieties devoid of added sugars, presents a favourable option to mitigate saturated fat and calorie intake.
Low fat cheese
Incorporating low-fat cheese, such as cottage cheese or part-skim mozzarella, can provide dairy benefits with moderated saturated fat content, though portion control remains pivotal due to calorie density.
Greek yoghurt
Greek yoghurt stands out for its elevated protein and reduced carbohydrate content compared to regular yogurt, rendering it advantageous for heart health.
Worst dairy products for heart patients
Full fat milk
Full-fat milk and yoghurt variants should be avoided due to their heightened saturated fat and cholesterol content, exacerbating cardiovascular risks.
Cream cheese or cheddar
Cream cheese, rich in saturated fat, should be consumed sparingly, while hard cheeses like cheddar or Swiss, high in saturated fat, warrant limited intake in heart patients’ diets. Heart patients must exercise moderation and portion control when it comes to dairy products. Source: HT -
Mughali Chicken
Ingredients
– 4 cardamom pods, 10 garlic cloves, peeled 6 whole cloves
– 4-1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh gingerroot
– 1 tablespoon unblanched almonds
– 1 tablespoon salted cashews
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 6 small red onions, halved and sliced
– 4 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped, 1/4 cup canola oil
– 3 tablespoons water, 1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Fresh cilantro leaves
– Optional: Naan flatbreads or hot cooked basmati rice
Directions
Remove seeds from cardamom pods; place in a food processor. Add the garlic, cloves, ginger, almonds, cashews and cinnamon; cover and process until blended. Set aside.
In a large skillet, saute onions and jalapenos in oil until tender. Stir in water and the garlic mixture. Add the chicken, milk, yogurt and turmeric. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until chicken juices run clear, 8-10 minutes. Sprinkle with cilantro. Serve with naan or rice if desired. -
Korean habits to stay young and energetic
Ever wondered how Koreans always seem to have such radiant skin and youthful energy? It’s not just about genetics! Koreans have a whole culture of wellness that emphasises healthy habits for a long and vibrant life.
Here are some Korean habits you can easily incorporate into your routine:
Morning Skincare Ritual
Koreans swear by a multistep skincare routine that cleanses, tones, and moisturises. This pampering ritual helps keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
Sun Protection Always: Koreans are serious about sun protection. They use sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, to prevent wrinkles and sun damage.
Diet Rich in Fermented Foods
Kimchi, anyone? Korean cuisine features many fermented foods like kimchi and gochujang, which are packed with probiotics that can boost gut health and contribute to a youthful glow.
Plenty of Water: Water is essential for flushing toxins and keeping the skin plump. Koreans prioritise staying hydrated throughout the day.
Good Sleep is Key
Just like everyone else, Koreans know the importance of a good night’s sleep for overall health and a radiant complexion.
Sweat it Out
Regular exercise is a cornerstone of Korean wellness. From brisk walks to K-pop dance workouts, Koreans find ways to stay active.
Relaxation Techniques
Stress shows on your face! Koreans combat stress with practices like meditation or spending time in nature.
Social Connection
Koreans value strong social bonds with family and friends. Feeling connected can boost happiness and overall well-being.
Mindful Eating
Koreans savour their food and eat mindfully, which can lead to better digestion and a healthy weight.
Traditional Medicine
Many Koreans incorporate traditional Korean medicine practices like herbal remedies or acupressure into their wellness routines. Source: India Today -
Age-defying mind: Ways to keep your brain young and healthy at workplace
It is no secret that maintaining an age-defying or youthful and healthy brain is essential for optimal performance and overall well-being in today’s fast-paced work environments that need us to be on our toes 9 to 5, amid neck-breaking competition. If you are wondering about what holistic approaches individuals should adopt to nurture their brain health and thrive in the dynamic workplace environment, read on as we got you sorted with some expert advices.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Sonal Arora, Country Manager at Gi Group Holding India, shared, “We advocate for a workplace that nurtures vibrant minds. Embracing a culture of continuous learning, cross-functional collaboration and diversity is not only impactful from a business perspective for the organisation but it also helps us remain agile as individuals. Further staying physically active, making right nutrition choices and engaging in mindfulness helps to manage stress and promote mental resilience. These steps go a long way and can help team members thrive during their professional journey. Encourage these holistic approaches to create an environment which helps to unlock innovation, boosts productivity and long-term cognitive vitality.”
According to Atul Tiwari, Chief HR Officer at Spice Money, prioritising cognitive well-being (body, mind and soul), can help one embrace the elixir of a youthful mind within the confines of your workplace. He suggetsed, “Nurture your brain’s vitality through a symphony of mindful practices. Meditation is the proven tool for this. Exercise the mental muscles with diverse tasks, fostering adaptability and resilience. Engage in lifelong learning, cultivating a garden of knowledge that continuously flourishes. Prioritise quality sleep to allow the brain’s intricate processes to rejuvenate, fortifying cognitive function.”
He added, “Savour the nourishment of a balanced diet, feeding your brain the nutrients it craves for sustained performance. Seamlessly integrate moments of mindfulness into your workday, allowing your mind to recharge amidst the hustle. Foster social connections, as meaningful interactions stimulate cognitive health. A fun way to protect your brain is to have a good laugh. Finally, harmonize work and leisure, balancing challenges with moments of relaxation, creating a symmetrical dance that keeps the brain agile and vibrant. In the workplace, let the melody of these practices compose a timeless ode to the enduring youthfulness of your mind.” Source: HT -
Ajay Devgn to announce Shaitaan 2 soon
Ajay Devgn and R Madhavan starrer Shaitaan is gearing up for its sequel. We have exclusively learnt that the film is going to get a part two announcement soon. “Shaitan’s sequel will be announced in a few days. Ajay and Vikas (Bahl, director) are quite happy with the response it has got and have high expectations from the second part as well,” says the source, adding, “The film will go on floors in a few months after the cast is finalised. There is a higher chance that the same actors will appear in part two.”
Shaitaan, a supernatural horror thriller remake of 2023 Gujarati film Vash, was based on a family winning over the evil of black magic. Sharing deets about the second instalment’s storyline, the insider tells us, “The story further will be based in Kokam, Maharashtra, which is popularly known as the black magic center of the state. The narrative will develop around more complexities and energies of black magic.” Source: HT -
Akshay, Tiger ‘rise’ to ‘save the world’ in ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ trailer
Actors Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff are seen giving it all to save the world from a deadly weapon and a nasty masked antagonist played by Prithviraj Sukumaran in the upcoming action thriller ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’.
The over three-minute-long trailer begins with the introduction of the “dushman”, who does not have a name, identity or face but has only one goal “revenge”.
The villain steals a weapon, which Ronit Bose Roy’s character describes as the “most powerful and dangerous weapon ever to be made”.
Prithviraj gives three days to be stopped. Ronit is then heard saying: “If we have to stop this psychopath, then we need two bigger psychos than him.”
Akshay and Tiger are introduced into the trailer with the ‘Baaghi’ star mouthing: “Dil se soldier, dimaag se shaitaan hai hum.” Akshay adds: “Bach ke rehna humse. Hindustan hai hum.”
The next moment is all about high octane action, powerful punches, adrenaline rushing scenes, dollops of humour and picturesque locales of Mumbai, Scotland, London, Luton, Abu Dhabi, and Jordan. Actresses Manushi Chillar and Alaya F play undercover asset and an IT specialist, who join the two actors on the mission.
A glimpse of actress Sonakshi Sinha is also seen. The trailer ends with the two stars engaging in a fight. Ahead of the fight, Akshay is heard saying: “Hum dono purane dost hai.”
Tiger chimes in saying: “Ek doosre ke liye jaan de bhi sakte hai,” to which Akshay adds: “Aur ek doosre ki jaan le bhi sakte hai.” ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ is all set to release on April 10. -
Aditi Rao Hydari, Siddharth secretly get married in Telangana temple: Reports
Actors Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth have reportedly tied-the-knot secretly in a temple in Wanaparthy, Telangana. According to reports, the two got married in a quiet ceremony but have not made any official announcement yet.
The two actors reportedly got married on Wednesday morning at the Sri Ranganayakaswamy Temple in Warnapathy’s Srirangapur in Telangana. Many regional news portals have carried reports confirming the news.
The actors began dating after working on the 2021 film ‘Maha Samudram’. However, the two always kept their relationship away from the public eye.
It was earlier this year, when the ‘Wazir’ actress took to social media to confirm their relationship.
Aditi made her film debut in 2006 with the Malayalam film ‘Prajapathi’, after which she starred in movies such as ‘Yeh Saali Zindagi’, ‘Rockstar’, ‘Wazir’ and ‘Padmaavat’. -
Sara Ali Khan: Have developed a thick skin, take everything with a hint of humor
Actress Sara Ali Khan has revealed that being an actor one needs to develop a thick skin, which she has. The actress added that whatever comes her way she takes it positively and with a pinch of humor. Asked as an actress what are the questions that come her way, annoys her?
“Nothing really annoys me haha! I have developed a thick skin over the years. I think as an actor you need to do that. I take everything positively and with a hint of humour. That keeps my boat sailing,” Sara told IANS on the sidelines of Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI.
Sara loves watching movies and has a set of her own “favourites”.
“I have my own set of favourite actors. I love watching other people’s work because I want to keep learning from everyone and everything around me,” added the actress, who turned muse for designer Varun Chakkilam.
“Every actor has their strengths, I like to pick up on it and incorporate that in my work. I like bettering myself,” she added. Source: IANS -
Eva Mendes prioritizes motherhood over acting career
Ryan Gosling may be Ken, but his Barbie chose to take a backseat when they had daughters. On the Today show, actor and Ryan’s wife Eva Mendes revealed why she gave up on acting after the birth of their daughters.
“It was almost just like a non-verbal agreement that it was like, ‘Ok, he’s going to work and I’m going to work. I’m just going to work here. He went and he did his job. He just happens to be really good at his job. And he did it and he came home,” said Eva. She said it was a “no-brainer” for her to quit acting after the birth of their daughters because the job takes her on locations away from her family.
Eva Mendes has been in awe of Ryan the actor ever since they shared the screen space in Derek Cianfrance’s 2012 epic crime drama The Place Beyond the Pines. “I have never experienced anything like that. The way he works, his commitment to his craft, how he wants to make everything as best as it can be, and that means making his co-stars as best as they can be. But unfortunately — or fortunately — there is only one Ryan,” she added.
Ryan, 43, and Eva, 50, started dating in 2011. While they remain unmarried, they had two daughters in 2016 and 2018 respectively.
Earlier this year, Eva took to her Instagram handle and congratulated Ryan for his portrayal of Ken in Greta Gerwig’s satire Barbie. “So proud of my man. So much hate when he took on this role. So many people trying to shame him for doing it. Despite all the #Notmyken ridicule and articles written about him, he created this completely original, hilarious, heartbreaking, now iconic character and took it all the way to Oscars,” Eva mentioned in her post. -
Julia Roberts to headline Luca Guadagnino’s thriller
Julia Roberts will be seen in the lead role of director Luca Guadagnino’s thriller After The Hunt. As per the official logline, the movie follows Roberts as a college professor who “finds herself at a personal and professional crossroads when a star pupil levels an accusation against one of her colleagues.” As she navigates the difficult situation, “a dark secret from her own past threatens to come to light.”
Nora Garrett has penned the script of the project. The project’s announcement comes after Roberts delivered one of the biggest hits in recent years with the Netflix thriller Leave the World Behind.
Source: ANI -
Leonardo DiCaprio engaged? Ring on Vittoria Ceretti’s finger suggests so
Leonardo DiCaprio, 49, may have finally taken the leap. Pictures obtained by Page Six suggest that the actor may have been hitched. The giveaway? A new ring spotted in that finger of his girlfriend and 25-year-old model Vittoria Ceretti. Leonardo and Vittoria were spotted on a burrito date at a Mexican restaraunt in Los Angeles. While he wore a white T-shirt, baseball cap, and a face mask, she wore a white tank top, black-and-white sweaters, and a baggy jeans. But what caught attention in one zoomed-in picture was the ring on her finger as she put her arm on Leonardo’s shoulder. The report states it’s a new addition to the jewellery she wears. Users on X had interesting reactions to the rumors. One joked, “Surprised he hasn’t broken up with her since she’s 25.” Another wrote, “Looks like an engagement ring, and if so congrats! I think they are a cute couple.” “My friend did it too once and the boy she had a crush saw it and thought she had a man. It was a normal ring,” posted a third one.
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‘I’m a Scorpio’: When Anne Hathaway was told that she had zero sex appeal
Anne Hathaway was told that she had zero sex appeal when she was a young actor just starting out in Hollywood. However she refused the claim and said, “I was like, ‘I’m a Scorpio. I know what I’m like on a Saturday night’.” The actress talked about it in her new Vanity Fair cover story. Hathaway joined the world of acting as a teenager with The Princess Diaries, when she was 17 years old. The actress talked about how the cultural definition of what it means to be sexy was narrow during her early days of stardom than it is now. “The male gaze was very dominant and very pervasive and very juvenile,” she said, noting that her feelings are far more important in the business nowadays than her physical appearance. Her latest role is that of single mother Solene in The Idea of You, which revolves around the romance between 40-year-old Solene and the 24-year-old lead singer of the world’s most popular boy band.
Anne Hathaway considers filmmaker Christopher Nolan an “angel” in her life. Gracing her first solo Vanity Fair cover, she addressed the 2013 viral phenomenon ‘Hathahate’ that portrayed her identity as “toxic” after she won Oscars for the musical Les Misérables, and also opened up about how Nolan made her sign his projects irrespective of the hate she received post the Academy Award win, Variety reported.
“A lot of people wouldn’t give me roles because they were so concerned about how toxic my identity had become online. I had an angel in Christopher Nolan, who did not care about that and gave me one of the most beautiful roles I’ve had in one of the best films that I’ve been a part of,” she recalled. -
‘Legal processes driven only by rule of law’: MEA rejects US remarks on Arvind Kejriwal, Congress
New Delhi (TIP)- Foreign Office spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal again hit back at its American counterpart for doubling down on his comments on Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and for also making observations on the tax authorities freezing the Congress’ bank accounts.
Jaiswal also felt the US, a fellow democracy with similar methods of governance as India, should have no difficulty in appreciating the fact that “legal processes here are driven only by rule of law”. He termed the comments by the US State Department for the second day running as “unwarranted” and said “any such external imputation on our electoral and legal processes is completely unacceptable. The MEA, he reminded, had already lodged a strong protests on his observations on Kejriwal’s arrest made on Wednesday.
“India is proud of its independent and robust democratic institutions. We are committed to shielding them from any external influences. Mutual respect and understanding form the foundation of international relations and states are expected to be respectful of sovereignty and internal affairs of others,” the spokesperson said.
Despite the South Block serving a demarche on Washington for its comments on the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the US State Department in its latest media briefing late on Wednesday night not only repeated its comments but opened another front by commenting on the IT department freezing the bank accounts of the Congress.
On the Congress issue, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “We are also aware of the Congress’ allegations that tax authorities have frozen some of their bank accounts in a manner that will make it challenging to effectively campaign in the upcoming elections, and we encourage fair, transparent, and timely legal processes for each of these issues.”
Miller was asked to respond to the recent political turmoil in India, including the freezing of the Opposition party’s bank account, and if the crackdown on the Opposition had “reached a crisis point ahead of national elections”. Source: TNS -
HC rejects plea for Kejriwal’s removal as Delhi CM
New Delhi (TIP)- The Delhi high court on March 28 dismissed a petition seeking Kejriwal’s removal as chief minister over his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), saying it failed to show any legal bar against his continuation in the post. It added that, if any “constitutional failure” exists due to the arrest of a sitting chief minister, it is for the President to act on it rather than the court.
“Let the executive branch examine it, whatever they have to do, they will do. We should not be getting into this political thicket,” said a bench headed by acting chief justice Manmohan while dismissing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed social activist Surjit Singh Yadav.
Yadav sought Kejriwal’s removal from the post of chief minister following his arrest by ED on March 21 over his alleged involvement in the now-scrapped 2021-22 state excise policy. A city court on Thursday allowed ED to retain the CM’s custody till April 1.
“If there is a constitutional failure, the President will act on it or the [lieutenant] governor will act on it. We will not act on it. Article 239AB (Provision in case of failure of constitutional machinery) is not to be exercised by the high court. It is to be exercised by the Governor. Governor will exercise and it will go to the President. Whether it (government) will function or not function, that is something we can’t comment on,” said the bench also comprising justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora.
Yadav’s petition said that the CM, while being in jail, was incapable of transacting any business that the law enjoined upon him. It added that any material, irrespective of its secretive nature, would have to be scanned thoroughly by the prison authorities before it reaches the hands of Kejriwal. Yadav also submitted that the continuation of Kejriwal as Delhi’s CM would lead to obstruction of due process of law, disrupt the course of justice, and result in the breakdown of constitutional machinery in the state.
The plea sought a response from the Centre, the Delhi government, and the principal secretary to the lieutenant governor (LG) to answer the authority under which Kejriwal is holding the post of CM.
The bench told the petitioner that the situation is being examined by LG VK Saxena and that the executive may take some time to arrive at a conclusion. “We have read today’s newspaper. LG is examining this issue. It will go to the President for examination and that is up to them. That belongs to a different wing. They’ll take their time and arrive at a conclusion. It may take some time. Probably this situation was not envisaged, whatever it was,” the bench said.
The court further underscored that Yadav failed to put forth any legal bar that prevented Kejriwal from continuing as CM, and was only pointing out to the practical difficulties that could be incurred by the latter while running the government from prison.
“There may be difficulties, we accept all those. There may be practical difficulties but the question is, is there any legal bar? Any prohibition. You show us any legal bar, you are pointing out practical difficulties and Article 239AB is not something that we will consider. That the LG has to consider, the President of India has to consider, the council of ministers have to consider. Why should we pass [an order]?” the court remarked. Source: HT -
In chat with Bill Gates, PM Modi’s ‘dos and don’ts’ on AI-generated deepfake content
New Delhi (TIP)- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underscored India’s cautious approach towards embracing Artificial Intelligence while acknowledging the pressing need for regulations to mitigate potential misuse. In a conversation with Microsoft founder Bill Gates, PM Modi stressed the importance of providing proper training before granting access to AI technologies.
“If such a good thing (AI) is given to someone without proper training, it is likely to be misused. I suggested that we should start with clear watermarks on AI-generated content. So that nobody is misguided,” Modi said. “In a democratic country like India, anybody can use deepfake. It’s crucial to acknowledge that deepfake content is AI-generated. We need to think about some dos and don’ts,” he added.
PM Modi also called for establishing clear guidelines and distinguishing authentic content from deepfake creations. “For example, they may misuse my voice. It can initially deceive people, leading to widespread chaos. It’s crucial to acknowledge that deepfake content is AI-generated and mention its source,” PM Modi said while addressing the issue of deepfake.
Deepfake is a video of a person in which their face or body has been digitally altered so that they appear to be someone else, typically used maliciously or to spread false information.
The prime minister issued a poignant warning against the reckless deployment of AI, cautioning against viewing it merely as a “magic tool” that could lead to grave injustices if wielded without due diligence.
“If we use AI as a magic tool, it will perhaps lead to a grave injustice. If AI is relied on out of laziness…then it is the wrong path,” Modi said as he argued for competition between humans and AI chatbots like ChatGPT.
Echoing Modi’s sentiments, Bill Gates provided insights into the dynamic nature of AI development, characterising the current stage as “early days” fraught with challenges and opportunities. Source: HT -
Actor Govinda joins CM Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena
Bollywood actor Govinda made a political comeback on Thursday, March 28, after joining the ruling Shiv Sena in the presence of Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde in Mumbai. The actor had earlier won elections on a Congress ticket from the Virar constituency after defeating BJP stalwart Ram Naik.
The ‘Raja Babu’ actor made his political debut in 2004 when he emerged as a “giant killer” after defeating senior BJP leader Ram Naik in the Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat with a Congress party ticket. The 60-year-old actor was welcomed by Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde saying he was a popular figure in all sections of the society.
“I am back (in politics) after a 14-year-long ‘vanvas’ (exile),” Govinda remarked after joining the Shiv Sena. The actor said he would work in the art and culture field if given a chance.
Applauding the work done by the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Govinda, fondly called Chi Chi, said, “We have seen the same level of progress here (in Maharashtra) in the last two years, as we have seen in the country in the last 10 years. We will focus on the beautification of the state and the growth of art and culture.”
Govinda, who started his acting career in the 1980s, said after his first stint in politics from 2004 to 2009, he never felt he would come back to the same field. -
High alert across UP after gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari’s death
Lucknow (TIP)– Security personnel in several districts of Uttar Pradesh remained on alert on Friday, March 29, a day after jailed gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari died of cardiac arrest at a hospital in Banda. Prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC have been imposed across the state and teams of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) along with the local police have been deployed in Banda, Mau, Ghazipur and Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Prashant Kumar said earlier.
People had also started gathering at Mukhtar Ansari’s residence in Ghazipur and there was a large deployment of security personnel around the house.
Officials at the police headquarters here said the postmortem will be conducted at the Banda medical college by a panel of doctors and the procedure will be videographed. The 63-year-old Ansari was brought to the Rani Durgavati Medical College in Banda from the district jail in “an unconscious state” on Thursday evening and died at the hospital following a cardiac arrest, according to its principal Suneel Kaushal. Family members of Ansari, including his son Umar Ansari, reached Banda early Friday. Umar Ansari alleged that his father was subjected to slow poisoning in jail, a charge denied by authorities.
“My father had told us he was being subjected to ‘slow poison’,” Umar Ansari told reporters and added that the entire country knows about it now.
Umar Ansari said they will take the body to Ghazipur for cremation after the postmortem.
The police has already chalked out a route plan for the safe transit of the body via road from Banda to Ghazipur, a distance of around 380 Km.
Security has also been stepped up in parts of the state in view of Friday prayers.
Mukhtar Ansari was brought to the medical college around 8.25 pm on Thursday in an unconscious state after he had complained of vomiting. A team of nine doctors attended to him but he died of cardiac arrest, the medical bulletin stated.
Afzal Ansari, who is also the Ghazipur MP, alleged that his brother was given slow poison in jail.
Ansari, a five-time MLA from Mau Sadar seat, was behind bars in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab since 2005. He had over 60 criminal cases pending against him.
He was sentenced in eight cases since September 2022 by different courts in Uttar Pradesh and was lodged in the Banda jail. His name was on the list of 66 gangsters issued by Uttar Pradesh Police last year. Ansari, who hailed from Ghazipur, was believed to have a strong influence in the adjoining Mau and Varanasi districts as well.
The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier approached the Supreme Court to bring Ansari back to the state from Ropar jail in Punjab.
In January 2019, Ansari, then a BSP MLA, was lodged in the Ropar jail in connection with an extortion case and remained there for more than two years.
In March 2021, while hearing a plea of the Uttar Pradesh government, the Supreme Court directed the Punjab government to hand over Ansari’s custody to Uttar Pradesh, saying it was being denied on trivial grounds under the guise of medical issues. Source: PTI -
HC dismisses another plea by Congress on tax reassessment
The Delhi High Court on Thursday, March 28, rejected petitions by the Congress challenging the initiation of tax reassessment proceedings against it for a period of four years by tax authorities.
A bench of Justices Yashwant Varma and Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav said the pleas were dismissed in terms of its earlier decision refusing to interfere with the opening of reassessment for another period.
The present matter pertained to assessment years 2017 to 2021.
In the earlier petition, which was dismissed last week, the Congress party had challenged initiation of reassessment proceedings pertaining to assessment years 2014-15 to 2016-17.
On March 22, the high court had, while rejecting those pleas, said that the tax authority had prima facie collated “substantial and concrete” evidence warranting further scrutiny and examination.
It had, however, left open the question as to whether the delay in commencement of proceedings would be fatal to the assessment.
In that petition, the Congress had contended that action under Section 153C (assessment of income of any other person) of Income Tax Act was based on searches which were conducted on four individuals in April, 2019, and was barred by limitation.
It said that on the basis of the material which was gathered in those searches, the assessing officer also drew corresponding satisfaction notes for initiation of proceedings against the Congress.
The I-T department had, however, asserted there was no violation of any statutory provision by the tax authority and that as per the material recovered, the “escaped” income of the party is more than Rs 520 crore. Source: PTI -
Celebrating Rita Shah’s dedicated service to the community through her career at Air India
EDISON, NJ (TIP): In a poignant expression of respect and gratitude, the Indian community convened for a farewell dinner in honor of Ms. Rita Shah of Air India. The event took place on Sunday, March 24 at the Royal Albert Palace in Edison, The farewell dinner gathered over 200 distinguished guests, including numerous members from Air India, such as Mr. Girish Salian, Regional Manager, Mr. Amol Rane, Manager at Newark Airport, and Mr. Amarjit Singh, Manager at JFK Airport. The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) also participated with a significant representation comprising President Dr. Avinash Gupta, Joint Secretary Mr. Srujal Parikh, Vice-President Smita Miki Patel, General Secretary Ms. Priti Patel, Joint Secretary Mr. Mahesh Dubal, and Joint Treasurer Mr. Haresh Shah. Additionally, several prominent community leaders were in attendance. The event was organized by the eminent community leader, Mr. Peter Kothari, in association with the FIA. The event was gracefully emceed by Mr. Andy Bhatia, a former FIA Trustee and Air India Manager.
The gathering As the evening unfolded, attendees shared heartfelt experiences, reminisced about fond memories, and lauded Ms. Shah for her invaluable contributions. Mr. Srujal Parikh highlighted the historical association between FIA and Air India, reminiscing about the inaugural India Day Parade in Manhattan in 1981, where Air India was the sole supporter and sponsor for the very 1st India Day parade that gathered about 80 participants. Dr. Avinash Gupta commended Ms. Shah for her long-standing support of the Indian diaspora and unwavering commitment to aiding and uplifting the community through selfless service.
The gathering The event was imbued with gratitude and nostalgia as colleagues and community members joined together to express appreciation for Ms. Shah’s dedicated service and steadfast support. The efforts of Mr. Peter Kothari, notables from the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY-NJ-CT-NE) including FIA Senior Advisor & Padma Awardee Dr. H R Shah, FIA President Dr. Avinash Gupta, FIA Board Member Dr. Kanubhai Chauhan, and Albert Jasani of Royal Alberts Palace, a
long with prominent community supporters and participating travel agencies, made the event possible.
The gathering -
Atlanta Hosts A “Riot” of Color: The Hindu Festival of “Holi”
ATLANTA , GA (TIP) : The Atlanta Chapter of Sewa International recently hosted its 17th annual Holi festival, the vibrant and colorful Hindu celebration of spring, love, and colors. The event, held at Cumming Fairgrounds on March 23, attracted an impressive turnout of nearly 18,000 people from the Atlanta Metropolitan Area and beyond, making it one of the largest Holi celebrations in the United States.
The Atlanta Holi celebration featured a variety of cultural performances, including traditional and Bollywood dances and live music. Attendees also enjoyed a wide array of traditional Indian vegetarian street food.
Visiting Dignitaries with the Sewa Team members Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick, Consul General of India in Atlanta Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, Georgia State Representative Todd Jones, and Forsyth County Commissioner Alfred John graced the occasion with their presence. Sen. Jon Osoff sent specially recorded greetings for the event attendees. Atlanta’s own business leaders — Subhash Patel of Natson Hotels Group and Samir Bhatia, CEO of Smartcare Urgent Care — conveyed their Holi wishes to the community.
“We are thrilled to have hosted such a successful and joyous Holi celebration,” said Dr. Madhav Durbha, President of Sewa International Atlanta. “Holi is a time for spreading happiness and building community spirit, and we are delighted to see so many people come together to celebrate this colorful festival with us.”
Tesla Motors joined the fun — all colored up! The event drew the interest of various corporations. Employees of Starbucks were there to serve free coffee to Sewa volunteers early in the morning. Tesla Motors brought some of their cars to display and also to allow attendees to test drive.
Sewa Atlanta’s tradition of celebrating Holi started in 2006 in Alpharetta’s Wills Park. At the time there were other Holi celebrations around the city, but none in the proximity of Alpharetta which was starting to become the center of gravity for the Indian diaspora. Bringing the festival closer to where the people lived began to attract attention. Several volunteers who were at the 2006 event continue to serve as part of Sewa. Over the years Holi started attracting non-Indians as well turning it into a universal celebration regardless of race, religion, or ethnic backgrounds. Besides being a fun experience, a key motivation behind the event is to build awareness of the community impact activities Sewa is undertaking in Atlanta.
A core team of volunteers worked tirelessly for nearly three months leading to the event. About 250 volunteers were present at the event to tend to the needs of the attendees. The Holi celebration would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors, volunteers, and attendees. The Cumming Police Department provided security and DJ Shaan rocked the campground with music to which the performers and attendees danced while showering each other in colors. The staff of Cumming Fairgrounds ensured that the event was effectively managed.
Sharing some love and gratitude with our Police Officers Natson Hotels Group and Paramount Software Solutions served as signature sponsors. Sanatan Mandir and Shakti Mandir sponsored the food for thousands of attendees. Amruth Ayurveda, AssureGuru, CGIngredients, Cherians, Chugh, E-Ring, Inc., Garuda Vega, Georgia Banking Company, Gupta Real Estate, Indiaco, PNC Bank, Premium Realty Group LLC, Pyramid Consulting, Royal Basmati Rice, Twinkle Pediatrics LLC were the additional sponsors.
In the true spirit of the Hindu adage that “the whole world is one family,” Sewa International Atlanta organizes various charitable initiatives, including food drives, primary education initiatives, and free healthcare clinics in collaboration with Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Heritage (GAPI) to support local communities in need.
Sewa International has also adopted several sustainability principles in minimizing waste associated with the event. Greencell Atlanta partnered with Sewa on this front. The City of Cumming provided recycling bags and containers.About Sewa International
Sewa International is a Hindu faith-based, humanitarian, nonprofit service organization registered under Internal Revenue Code 501 (c) (3). Founded in 2003, Sewa International is part of a larger movement that started in India in 1989 and is active in twenty countries. Sewa serves humanity irrespective of race, color, religion, gender or nationality. Sewa specializes in disaster relief and rehabilitation. Our development programs focus on family services; child, tribal and refugee welfare; women empowerment; health; and education. For more information about Sewa International, please visit www.sewausa.org -
State Senator Mukherji endorses former Gov. McGreevey for Jersey City mayor
JERSEY CITY, NJ (TIP): “At this moment in Jersey City’s history, there is no one better equipped, better qualified, better suited to lead this city than Jim McGreevey. For that reason, with all of your support, I’m endorsing Jim McGreevey to be the next mayor”, NJ State Senator Mukherji said.
He continued that McGreevey, also a former state assemblyman, senator, and mayor of Woodbridge, has “unrivaled experience” across the state that will help to keep streets clean, taxes stable, and funding coming into the city from all possible avenues. Pointing to economic development as a great success, Mukherji said it also makes affordability difficult and forces multi-generation families out in some cases, which is why experience is key in 2025. Mukherji joins nine mayors from the Hudson County Democratic Organization, along with County Executive Craig Guy, in backing McGreevey.
Former Gov. Jim McGreevey Jersey City mayor candidate speaking at an event in Jersey City on March 23, 2024 (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia) “This is our city; this is our community. And what’s so critically important is that we understand this is about families, this is about communities – it’s about our community and our way of life – it’s about how we interact with each other, how we respect each other, and what kind of future we have,” McGreevey said.
“The first is when we talk about affordability, we talk about taxes and we talk about rent. And I think we need to understand, as a number of individuals have said, that the school board is presently spending over a billion dollars a year. And when you look at the trajectory for spending, what you see if that there has been an exponential increase in expenditures, which obviously has an impact in terms of the bottom line on property taxes.”
McGreevey continued that only 10 percent of Jersey City 8th graders in public schools met proficiency standards in math and only one third are literacy appropriate in third grade.
Bhavesh Patel, a community leader speaking at the event. (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia) He vowed to work with the school district in “being committed to excellence” and quality education being “a cornerstone of our efforts,” as well as keeping property taxes and spending low, he vowed to control costs and live within our means. The former governor cited the Pompidou project, which he recently denounced, and the ice rink at Pershing Field being closed for two years as examples of where the city needs to do better, along with $1.6 billion being spent on new sewer and water lines.
“As Raj said, I think this is the most diverse city, not only in this state, but in this nation – it represents an American ideal that we believe in a value system of opportunity and responsibility,” McGreevey stated.
“My commitment is to work as hard as you every single day, and bluntly, I don’t have all the answers, but I’m convinced, together, as a community, if we work hard, if we work responsibly, if we work with consistency, we can drive a work ethic that’s going to make Jersey City even better than what it is today.” The non-partisan Jersey City municipal elections, which include all nine council seats, are on November 4th, 2025.
A view of the audience. (Photo : Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia) -
The Association of Indians in America National Executive Committee (NEC) for 2024 & 2025 inaugurated
GLEN COVE, NY (TIP): Gobind Munjal, the National President of The Association of Indians in America (AIA), was sworn-in once again for the 2nd term 2024 & 2025 along with his National Executive Committee in an exciting Inauguration ceremony arranged at Metropolitan Caterers in Glen Cove, Long Island on Saturday, March 16th, 2024. Since AIA is a National organization, its out of State Members attended the ceremony via zoom.
The occasion was graced by the chief guest Honorable Consul General Binaya S. Pradhan. The Inauguration and Oath ceremony was attended by about one hundred attendees. This included AIA founding members, board of Trustees, AIA National Past Presidents, chapter Presidents, community leaders, AIA members, friends, and the media partners.
Members of Executive are being sworn in Chief Guest Hon. Consul General of India in New York, Binaya S. Pradhan, in his opening Remarks, praised AIA for all that it has done for the community during its 56 years of history and commended the organization for its various achievements. He also suggested that if AIA could work on supporting the students coming from India to study here in the United States to get them internships and/or jobs, that will be very helpful. Consul General however pledged to work with AIA for outreach to the community.
National President Gobind Munjal was sworn-in by Honorable Consul General, Binaya Pradhan ji, who also administered the oath to Vice Presidents; Uma Swaminathan (NJ), Sushma Kotahwala (NY), Dr. Yash Pal Arya (NY), Santosh Pandey (IL), Secretary Gunjan Rastogi (NY) and Treasurer Gobind Bathija (NY). He also administered the oath to the members at large from all the states, namely Anita Thakkar (NY), Aridaman Jain (NJ), Beena Kothari (NY), Indu Gajwani (NY), Jasbir Singh (NY), Manoranjan Mishra (IL), Mohinder Taneja (NY). Neelam Modi (NY), Om Dhirgra (IL), Prem Mehrotra (IL), Rajeev Chaudhary(NY), Ram Tirumala (NJ), Ramola Motwani (FL), Salil Misra (IL), Santosh Khera (CA), Satish Anand (NY), Sharmistha Dutta (FL), Shashi Malik (NY), Sujata Seth (NY), Uma Eniasivam (FL), Usha Bansal (NY), Vijay Sharma (WI).
Gobind Munjal Addresses In his speech, National President Munjal welcomed everyone and shared some of the NEC’s achievements during his first term.
o Honor Banquet and Celebration of 75th Anniversary of India’s Independence on May 6th, 2023 – attended by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer & NYC Mayor Eric Adams.
o RESTARTED AIA National Newsletter (“BETWEEN US”) after a gap of about 20 years
o INITIATED Investment Advisory Committee to invest life membership funds for income and long-term growth,Amended Bylaws of National AIA in 2023 after 30 years of gap.
o Energized young members and made them life members
o Energized and Improved communications between the chapters
AIA past presidents and Gobind Munjal with the Consul General President also shared his Vision for the 2nd term:
He reiterated that since the elections are over now, we will all work together as a unified team.
In pursuing the AIA’s moto of “Indian Heritage and American Commitment”, he emphasized that:
“We are here to serve the community needs. As we continue to direct our help to the people in India, our homeland, we should equally remain committed to the community right here in the United States, our adopted country. We hope to work towards increasing that commitment.
As the demographic profile of the Indian American Community has changed in past 5 decades since the founding of AIA, so are their needs. We remain committed to understanding the changing requirements of the community, and then will develop Programs to help both – the Youth and the Elderly. NEC pledges support to all the Chapter Presidents and its members, so they all can build and expand on these programs across the nation. This way together, we can make the next two years most productive.
President Munjal also shared his initiative of working on the immigration bill to reduce the time delay for Indian citizens to get the green card as well as H1 B visas. He said “AIA (NEC) is joining GOPIO International and rallying some other organizations to join us in this initiative. Today it takes almost 15 to 20 years for an Indian citizen to get a green card, whereas some other nationalities get a green card in 1 year. We all are planning to go to Washington DC sometime in the end of April 2024 to meet the congressional leaders requesting them to support this bill”
All AIA leadership extended their good wishes and support. The program concluded with a traditional vote of thanks by the secretary.
The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is the oldest not-for-profit organization of Asian Indians in America founded on August 20, 1967. It is the grassroots national organization of Asian immigrants in United States. With chapters and membership spread across the United States of America, AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of Indian Heritage and American Commitment.
A view of the gathering -
ALL ABOARD THE EASTER BUNNY EXPRESS
KINGSTON, NY (TIP): It’s time to Hop on Board the Catskill Mountain Railroad’s Easter Bunny Express. Enjoy a train ride along the old Catskill Mountain Branch Line and join our Easter Egg Hunt for a perfect activity that’s fun for younger children and adults of all ages. Shake off that winter chill and celebrate spring with a ride on the Easter Bunny Express. Take the trip on the historic Catskill Mountain Railroad from Kingston out to the Easter Egg Patch, enjoy some snacks, and get your photos with the Easter Bunny.
The Catskill Mountain Railroad will be operating the Easter Bunny Express trains on Saturday March 23rd, Sunday March 24th and Saturday March 30th. All trains arrive and depart from the Westbrook Station at the Kingston Plaza. Trains leave at 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM. The complete train ride is a 90 minute experience.
Ticket prices are Adults $23.00, Adult Discount (Seniors/Military/Veteran) $21.00 and Children $17.00, children under 2 ride on the lap ride free with paid adult fare. An adult must accompany all children. Bunny trains are for all ages; bring along the whole family. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit our website www.CatskillMountainRailroad.com, or call our office (845) 332-4854 or e-mail us at info@catskillmountainrailroad.com.