The Indian Panorama

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  • Indian American physician to run for Congress in Arizona

    Indian American physician to run for Congress in Arizona

    PHOENIX, AZ (TIP): Dr. Hiral Tipirneni, an Indian American emergency room physician and cancer research advocate, officially announced her candidacy for Arizona’s 8thCongressional District.

    Hiral has dedicated her life to serving her community and is running for Congress to take on Washington special interests by putting the district’s residents first.

    “I believe in solving problems and improving lives, which is all about people, not partisanship,” said Dr. Tipirneni. “That’s what I did in the emergency room, and I’m running for Congress to do the same,” she added.

    Hiral has served the Phoenix area for more than two decades, first as an emergency room physician. Most recently, she joined the board of directors of the Maricopa Health Foundation, which supports the county’s public health care delivery system.

    “I’m not a career politician,” Hiral stated, “But I’ve successfully worked with people from all walks of life, and I promise to bring that team oriented approach to working with Republicans and Democrats alike to get the results we need.”

    Hiral came to America from India with her family at the age of three. Her family struggled at first, but Hiral’s father eventually secured a job in his field of structural engineering in Ohio, where she and her brother were raised in a blue-collar suburb of Cleveland. Hiral’s mother, a social worker, was the director of a downtown Cleveland senior center and initiated its Meals on Wheels program. Hiral often accompanied her mother, and it was then she began to feel the tremendous impact small acts of service can have on another person.

    Following a childhood illness, Hiral was inspired to learn more about medicine and, after graduating from public school, she eventually earned her medical degree through an accelerated, competitive program at Northeast Ohio Medical University. A passionate problem-solver who thrives on working with a team, Hiral chose to pursue emergency medicine because of the wide variety of challenges it presented, and it allowed her to be the first point of contact for patients.

    Hiral met her husband, Dr. Kishore Tipirneni, during her first year of medical school. After she served as Chief Resident of the University of Michigan’s Emergency Medicine program, Hiral and Kishore looked for a place they could settle down, practice medicine, and begin raising a family. They sought somewhere that reflected the Midwestern values they both learned growing up. They chose Phoenix.

    Kishore joined a well-established orthopedic surgery practice and Hiral began working in the emergency department at Banner Good Samaritan downtown. She went on to serve in emergency departments at the Maricopa County Medical Center, Banner Thunderbird, and Abrazo Arrowhead hospitals – all while raising their three children in the Arrowhead community.

    After losing her mother and nephew to cancer, Hiral directed her passion and problem-solving skills to evaluating and directing funding for cutting-edge cancer research. She now leads teams of researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates in the fight to treat and cure breast cancer, prostate cancer, and childhood leukemia.

    Always invested in strengthening her community and improving its quality of life, Hiral initiated and was the lead organizer for a TEDx event about effecting positive change in the Northwest Valley. She also serves on a number of nonprofit boards of directors.

  • Indian American Doctor discovers Breakthrough Therapy for Sepsis

    Indian American Doctor discovers Breakthrough Therapy for Sepsis

    NEBRASKA (TIP): A breakthrough therapy has been developed by a team led by an American professor of Indian origin, Dr Pinaki Panigrahi, which can reduce the risk of Sepsis infection (a condition of bacterial infection that spreads fast and leads to organ failure) by 40%. The deadly infection kills around 60,000 kids around the world every year.

    Dr. Panigrahi is a professor of epidemiology and pediatrics at the Child Health Research Institute and Center for Global Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Centre’s College of Public Health.

     An elected fellow of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, he spent about 25 years at University of Maryland before coming to UNMC in 2010. A licensed clinician, tenured faculty and researcher at the UMB medical school, he served as the Director of International affairs at the UMB President’s office and established several hospital and field research sites in India and other countries. Under his direction, the center for global health and development at UNMC is now engaged in public health education, research, and practice across multiple continents with affiliate centers in Taiwan, Tanzania, Kenya, Uruguay, Bangladesh, and India.

    Starting with a prestigious Shannon award from the NIH Director’s office, Dr. Panigrahi’s career was supported very early by a FIRST award from NICHD, followed by multiple grants including R01 and U01 awards. Dr. Panigrahi received the young investigator award from the Eastern Society of Pediatric Research for his seminal work on gut flora in the newborn period and its link to necrotizing enterocolitis in premature newborns, followed by multiple basic research and clinical trial grants from federal and state agencies. With over $10M in total funding from NIH and the Bill and Melinda gates Foundation over the last fifteen years, he has directed many large-scale surveillance and intervention studies in India and several hospital-based studies in the U.S.

    Dr. Panigrahi has received additional research funding from the Maryland Industrial Partnership, the Fogarty International Center, the UN foundation, corporations such as Nestle-Switzerland and several other. Dr.  Panigrahi has focused on neonatal and child health issues ranging from serious conditions in the developed nations such as necrotizing enterocolitis to neonatal infections, diarrhea, malaria, birth asphyxia, prematurity, still births, and nutrition in the developing world setting. He described for the first time, the clinical picture of pediatric malaria in India to be different from that in Africa allowing the South-East Asia Regional office of the WHO to take a fresh look at their descriptions and recommendations.

    Dr. Panigrahi has worked for the World Bank in Belarus and as a consultant to multiple national and international bodies overseas. His work has been published in high impact journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, PLoS Medicine, Pediatrics, and Infection and Immunity. He held the office of the secretary of the International Campylobacter and Helicobacter society, was a panel member of the scientific committee on Federal Regulation of Probiotics – USA, an invited member and participant in the International Scientific Association on Prebiotics and Probiotics and has served on multiple NIH study sections.

  • Indian American Police Captain Ron Raman appointed Chief of San Pablo Police

    Indian American Police Captain Ron Raman appointed Chief of San Pablo Police

    SAN PABLO (TIP): The City of San Pablo created history when it extended an official offer of employment to Indian American Police Captain Rathnesh (Ron) Raman, a 21-year veteran of the Pittsburg Police Department, as San Pablo’s new Chief of Police. Raman is the City’s first male minority Chief of Police appointed in San Pablo since the City’s incorporation in 1948.

    “After an extensive and competitive executive management search, I am pleased to announce Pittsburg Police Captain Ron Raman as San Pablo’s next Chief of Police,” stated San Pablo City Manager Matt Rodriguez.

    Raman, selected from a field of 32 applicants, replaced Interim Chief of Police Walter Schulz who has been serving the City’s Police department since March 2017.

    Raman has West Contra Costa County roots having spent his formidable teen years growing up in Pinole, CA, and graduating from Pinole Valley High School in 1991. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento in May 1996, and a Master’s Degree in Leadership from St. Mary’s College in May 2004.

    He was hired by the Pittsburg Police Department in 1996, and has had an accomplished career of advancement currently serving as Police Captain since 2014. He is also a 2012 graduate from the California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Command College Graduate Class #50.

    Additionally, Raman currently serves as a part time faculty member of the Department of Administration of Justice at Los Medanos Community College since 2005 in Pittsburg, CA.

    “Captain Raman has been instrumental in shaping Pittsburg’s crime – reduction strategies and ensuring Pittsburg Police Officers have the tools and training necessary to provide exceptional police services. He will be missed. The San Pablo Police Department and the residents of San

    Pablo are getting an exceptional law enforcement leader who understands community policing and the important role law enforcement plays in strengthening communities. His police and executive experience will make his transition as San Pablo’s new Police Chief a seamless process,” stated current Pittsburg Chief of Police Brian Addington.

    Chief Raman’s official start date with the City of San Pablo was Monday, August 14, 2017. He is the City’s first male minority Chief of Police appointed in San Pablo since the City’s incorporation in 1948.

    The City of San Pablo City Council will be planning an official swearing in ceremony for the new Chief on Wednesday, August 30, 2017 at 5:00 p.m., with a community welcoming reception immediately following in Maple Hall.

     

  • Indian American Editor of L.A Times Davan Maharaj Removed

    Indian American Editor of L.A Times Davan Maharaj Removed

    LOS ANGELES (TIP):  Los Angeles Times fired its Indian origin Editor-Publisher Davan Maharaj on August 21 as part of a massive personnel shakeup in the newspaper. Tronc, Inc., parent company of the fifth-largest newspaper in the United States says the shake-up is aimed at moving one of the nation’s flagship newspapers more quickly into the digital age while bolstering its Washington coverage and other reporting.

    Maharaj, a 28-year veteran of the Times who had held both titles since 2016, was terminated along with Managing Editor Marc Duvoisin, Deputy Managing Editor for Digital Megan Garvey and Assistant Managing Editor of Investigations Matt Doig.

    Veteran media executive Ross Levinsohn, the former interim CEO of Yahoo, was named Times publisher. Jim Kirk, who until last week was editor and publisher of the Chicago Sun-Times, was named interim executive editor and he will lead the search for a new editor in chief.

    “During the last 28 years, it has been an honor working with the best journalists in a great American newsroom. They are indomitable, and I wish them well in their continued fight to serve our community. I’m proud of the work we’ve done,” Maharaj wrote in an email to employees.

    Maharaj was born in Trinidad and Tobago and is of Hindu Indian descent. He worked as a reporter at the Trinidad Express before moving to the United States, where he received a degree in political science from the University of Tennessee, as well as a master’s degree in law from Yale University. He started his career at the Los Angeles Times as an intern in 1989, subsequently working as a reporter in Los Angeles, Orange County, and East Africa. He won the 2005 Ernie Pyle Award for Human Interest Writing.

    Maharaj received a political science degree from University of Tennessee, and a master’s degree in law from Yale University.

    In December 2011, Maharaj was named editor and executive vice president of the Times. In March 2016, he was named editor-in-chief and publisher of the Los Angeles Times. He used to oversee the largest daily newsgathering organization in the West.

  • USINPAC and Smart City Works host urban planning delegation from India

    USINPAC and Smart City Works host urban planning delegation from India

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Last week US India Political Action Committee (USINPAC) hosted a business meeting at Center for Innovative Technology for visiting smart-city planners from India. The meeting was co-hosted by Smart City works, first of its kind business actuator and a premier business accelerator with a focus on the built environment aiming to dramatically change the way we design, build, and operate civil infrastructure. The meeting reviewed how communities, corporations can work with technological innovation to transform India’s urban areas and improve basic services, lower energy costs, while maintaining ecological balance.

    The visiting delegation from India included entrepreneurs, government officials and industry experts; Ms. Namita Banka, CEO, Banka BioLoo, Mr. Srikanth Kireeti Katam, Independent Consultant, Mr. Naim Keruwala, Program Manager, Governance and Advocacy, Avantha Foundation, Mr. Sandeep Sarin, Deputy Director, Confederation of Indian Industry, Mr. Maheep Singh Thapar, Managing Director and Principal Consultant, Adapt Technologies and Consultancy Services, Ms. Jyoti Krishnkant Unadkat, Senior Contributor, Khabarchhe.com and eminent Indian Americans from the area.

    Topics that were explored included working with local and regional governments; to plan and provide equitable access to vital infrastructure such as water, electricity, and sanitation while encouraging growth and investment, to develop basic infrastructure including water, electricity, sewage treatment, and solid waste management, for personal and community health and safety, that would trigger economic growth and investments in urban areas, encourage sustainable practices such as smart building technologies, lower cost energy and transportation options, safe and people friendly greenway developments and collaborate with international partners, corporate leadership, and clean technology in urban spaces.

    Sanjay Puri, Chairman, US India Political Action Committee, welcoming the delegation said, “India has some of the most crowded cities in the world. Cities attract migrants because of better work opportunities but urban spaces need to be livable and sustainable. USINPAC has a tremendous opportunity under PM Modi’s ‘smart city initiative’ to provide a platform to transfer technology and expertise to make good on this promise.”

  • On India’s 70th Independence Anniversary, let us be reminded: Rivers are India’s Lifelines

    On India’s 70th Independence Anniversary, let us be reminded: Rivers are India’s Lifelines

    Rivers are India’s Lifelines, We must protect rivers, lest we have deserts

    By Mabel Pais

    Water is one of the most fundamental requirements for life.

    Every year, on India’s Independence Day, resident Indians and the worldwide Indian diaspora, are reminded of our duty to our country of origin, our heritage, our motherland.

    “Everyone who consumes water must #Rally for Rivers,” tweeted Sadhguru, Founder, Isha Foundation, while launching the people’s campaign to create awareness about the urgency to rejuvenate India’s rivers.

    India’s rivers are facing a grave crisis. In just one generation, the perennial rivers are turning seasonal. Many smaller rivers have already vanished. Almost every major river has become a point of conflict between states. Water is one of the most fundamental requirements for life.

    If we do not act now to reverse this dire situation, the legacy we hand over to the next generation will be one of conflict and deprivation.

    An expert committee of environmental scientists and lawmakers are in the process of drawing up a comprehensive policy document. The draft policy suggests a very simple yet effective means to replenish our rivers – to create a kilometer-wide tree cover on riversides (and half a kilometer for tributaries). Forest trees can be planted on government land, and tree-based agriculture on farm land. This will ensure our rivers are fed throughout the year by the moist soil, and will also reduce floods, drought and soil loss.

     In consultation with Isha Foundation, the Government of Madhya Pradesh has started a mass movement aimed at building awareness and planting trees, among other things with the aim of rejuvenating the Narmada River. On 1st July 2017 Isha Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Government of Maharashtra to rejuvenate the Godavari River and facilitate plantation of 50 crore trees.

    To create mass awareness, Sadhguru will himself drive from Kanyakumari (southern India) to the Himalayas (northern India) through 16 states. The campaign will include 21 major events and numerous smaller events, both online and off-line, to touch every segment of society. As a mark of support, 13 Chief Ministers have confirmed participation in the Rally for Rivers events. The rally will be flagged-off by Union Minister of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, Honorable Shri Dr Harsh Vardhan on 3rd September in Coimbatore and will culminate in New Delhi on the 2nd October in the presence of political, policy, business, film and sport leaders from across India.

    Rally for Rivers is expected to garner support from millions of people by generating missed calls on a toll free number (011 91 80009 80009) as a mark of people’s support to a comprehensive policy to rejuvenate rivers. A massive awareness campaign is underway driven by youth, members of the Panchayats and volunteers of Isha Foundation across India.

    Rally for Rivers has received an overwhelming response which cuts across political parties and people from all walks and segments of the society. The campaign has also been supported by Border Security Force, IFFCO, IRCTC, Karnataka Bank, Retailers Association of India, World Aqua Foundation, Micro Finance associations, Indigo Airlines, DAV Schools, Spic Macay, Educomp Solutions in addition to 30 corporate companies.

    Celebrities from all walks of life – leaders of various political parties, religious leaders, Bollywood, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil film actors, Cricketers and Corporate heads, all have pledged their support to Rally for Rivers on Twitter.

    Actor Juhi Chawla tweeted supporting Rally for Rivers with an appeal to give a missed call on (0 11 91) 80009 80009. Apart from her, Anupam Kher, Rishi Kapoor, Madhoo, Dia Mirza, Manoj Bajpayee, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Shekhar Kapur, Tanisha Mukherjee, Master Chef Sanjeev Kapoor also expressed their support amongst many others.

    Malayalam Superstar Mohanlal on social media site Facebook, shared a video of Sadhguru speaking with school children about Rally for Rivers and said that “I was really moved, watching this video that strives to bring awareness of the plight of our rivers in the coming 20 years time. Dear friends, it’s time we worked together to revive these lifelines of our very own existence. I request you all to act now and show your solidarity towards this noble campaign. All you need to do is give a missed call to the number (0 11 91) 80009 80009. Together we shall save our rivers and bring them back. #RallyForRivers”

    Kannada Actors: Puneeth Rajkumar, Ganesh; Tamil actors – Vivek, Suhasini Maniratnam, Raadika, Partheipan also came forward to express their support. Biocon CMD, Kiran Mazumdar tweeted “A great citizens’ movement let by Sadhguru” in support of #RallyForRivers. Anand Mahindra, Executive Chairman of Mahindra Group said, “We will be along with you for the ride Sadhguru, time not for river rafting but River Rallying.”

    Dr. Mohan Bhagwat – Chief of RSS retweeted Sadhguru’s tweet saying, “We are with you in this mission.” Chief Imam of All India Imam Organisation – Imam Umer Ahmed Iliyasi with his photo with Sadhguru extended his full support and prayed for the noble cause on twitter.  Sadhguru later tweeted that “Everyone who consumes water must #RallyForRivers. Let us make it happen.”

    Creative writing and art competitions on the need to reviving India’s rivers and possible solutions have kick-started in over 100,000 schools in India in partnership with Educomp Solutions, DAV Schools, Vidya Bharati Schools, Camlin and Nickelodeon India. In each of these schools, the Nadi Stuti or the river chant, will be played in the assembly followed by an appeal from Sadhguru and Virender Sehwag. Rally for Rivers is also starting a national short film competition in association with Shekhar Kapur, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and Prahlad Kakkar.

    In what was one of the largest human formations, Sadhguru with over 6000 Isha volunteers came together in the shape of India’s map on 9th July to launch the campaign.

    In the USA, Rally for Rivers’  supporters have done their part to support the campaign.

    In Edison, NJ, around 30 people, kids & adults Rally for Rivers enthusiasts joined the India Day Parade in Edison, NJ on Aug 13th.  They walked with the Rally for Rivers banner and waved the posters in sync with Nadi Stuti which has been rendered by Sadhguru.

    The volunteers distributed flyers to onlookers and enthusiastically urged them to give a missed call. At the end of the march, the master of ceremonies announced the group and the Rally for Rivers (RFR) initiative.

    At the Chicago, IL, India Day Parade on 13th August about 40 strong, adults and children, “rallied for rivers” with T-shirts and the Rally For Rivers banner on the float held by volunteers. The announcement made about the RFR initiative during the parade, urging people to give a missed call, was well received.  Those who attended the parade were appreciative of the initiative and were willing to share the news among their communities.

    A similar RFR initiative was held at another Independence Day parade in New York city on August 20.  About 60 volunteers marched in support of the rally, waved RFR posters and distributed RFR flyers to onlookers.

     For more details on Rally for Rivers, contact:

    (Rajashree Kotekar, rajashree.kotekar@gmail.com. 732 586 4323)

    (The author Mabel Pais is a freelance writer.  She writes on the arts and entertainment, health and wellness, social issues and spirituality)

  • AAPI Hosts Leadership Seminar, Media Event at the Indian Consulate in New York

    AAPI Hosts Leadership Seminar, Media Event at the Indian Consulate in New York

    AAPI leaders share health and wellness message at India Day Parade in New York

    By Ajay Ghosh

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): “As we celebrate the 70th anniversary of India’s Independence. AAPI, the premier organization that represents over 65,000 physicians and 25,000 Residents of Indian Origin in the United states, want to convey our greetings to all peoples of Indian origin on this day of national celebration”, said Gautam Samadder, M.D., AAPI President, at the Indian Consulate in New York during a press conference on August 19th.

    Dr. Samadder, Dr. Raj Bhayani, and Dr. Kusum Punjabi at the Press Conference at the Indian Consulate

    On August 20th, AAPI joined the India Day Parade with a multi-color float spreading the message of health and wellness at the largest India Day Parade in New York City, organized by the Federation of Indian Americans. “AAPI takes special pride in saluting our beloved tricolor. Let us recall with pride the great sacrifice of our freedom fighters, whose undying love for India secured us our freedom,” Dr. Samadder said, as the float carrying AAPI leaders overflew with delegates from across the nation. Dr. Samadder and a host of AAPI delegates were seen dancing to the melodious Bollywood tunes while waving cheerfully to the large crowds that had gathered to greet the leaders. AAPI delegates joined the Meet and Greet with Grand Marshal Rana Daggubati on August 21st, 2017 at Royal Albert Palace Edison, NJ.

    Addressing the AAPI members from around the nation, media leaders and representatives from the tri – state region at the Consulate, Dr. Samadder, who had assumed office in June this year as the President of the largest ethnic association of the medical fraternity, highlighted the importance and the major role played by the physicians of Indian origin. “AAPI physicians represent only 10% of all physicians in the United States but service approximately 30% of the US patient population,” Dr. Samadder said. “Many have fostered personal relationships with members of Congress (as well as the highest levels of Government in India) that are invaluable assets to influencing legislation and insuring appropriate, patient-focused healthcare reform. Our business partners can be assured of a receptive audience and, once engaged, a loyal client and ambassador of the product and company,” he added.

    Consul General of India in New York addressing the press conference at the Indian Consulate

    In his keynote address, Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty said, “You have excelled in your fields of medicine, and thus make significant contributions through hard work, commitment and dedication to your profession and the people you are committed to serve.” While conveying his greetings and best wishes to AAPI leaders for the success of the convention and Global Healthcare Summit, Consul General of India in New York Sandeep Chakravorty described the fast-growing health sector, particularly the pharmaceutic industry in India. Ambassador Chakravorty lauded the efforts of AAPI, particularly for the free clinics across India, and the new clinic planned to be inaugurated in the state of West Bengal.

    AAPI members just returned from an all sold out exciting tour to the most exotic and scenic places on earth: South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana from August 4th through 13th, 2017. “Being busy in our work and caring for our families through the year, this “getaway” from all the daily challenges of our lives, was a way to reenergize our bodies and minds in the company of our beloved ones during this nature tour,” said Dr. Samadder.

     “I am extremely pleased to announce the new phase in our relationship and collaboration with the American Medical Association. AAPI has signed a MOU with AMA, the premier organization, working with whom, AAPI will succeeded in bringing to the forefront the many important health care issues facing the physician community and raising our voice unitedly before the US Congress members,” Dr. Samadder told media persons during the press event.

    Within the few weeks since assuming office, the executive team led by Dr. Samadder has taken many initiatives, Dr. Samadder provided an overview of the programs AAPI plans to undertake in the coming months. Pointing to some of the new initiatives, Dr. Samadder referred to the Clinical Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology; Healthy Heart program; International Research competition; and, a new free clinic by the AAPI Charitable Foundation in the state of West Bengal.

    Towards making this goal and other objectives of AAPI, Dr. Samadder has an excellent and dedicated executive committee, consisting of Dr. Naresh Parikh, President-Elect; Dr. Suresh Reddy, Vice President; Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Secretary; Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, Treasurer; and Dr. Ashok Jain, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Samadder thanked Dr. Raj Bhayani and Dr. Kusum Punjabi, among many others for their leadership and the initiatives in organizing the conference today.

    As President of AAPI, the nation’s largest ethnic association, the team is committed to unify AAPI by breaking down the barriers of various regions, languages, medical education within the organization and bringing everyone together as a whole organization rather than separate fragments of the organization.

    Dr. Ashok Jain, Chairman of the BOT, AAPI, in his address, assured AAPI members of the sound financial status of AAPI. “AAPI is strong financially,” he told members. Dr. Jain praised the leadership of Dr. Samadder and his executive committee for their leadership and leading the organization to new heights.

    Dr. Raj Bhayani welcomed the AAPI delegates and the media persons to the press conference, while Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda proposed vote of thanks. Dr. Shashi Shah, past BOT chairman introduced the Consul General to the audience. In his felicitation remarks, Dr. Ajay Lodha, the immediate past president of AAPI, praised the leadership of Dr. Samadder. “Under the leadership of Dr. Gautam and his team, AAPI has been brought to new heights,” he said.

    According to Dr. Samadder, for AAPI to retain its influence, AAPI must mentor and develop the next generation of doctors in leadership. “I want to encourage medical students, residents, and fellows and all second-generation Indian American physicians to be actively involved in both local and national level efforts to building a strong association focusing on leader development and strengthening our professional relations.”

    Earlier, during the day, AAPI members attended an outstanding Leadership Conference, addressed by renowned speakers with a working lunch and was followed by a Conference from 1pm to 5.30 pm. The Leadership conference agenda focused on: Effective Media Communication; Learn Team Building Skills; How to Succeed as Entrepreneur; and, Why Giving Back to your Community Helps You as a Leader.

    Dr. Gautam Samadder and AAPI leaders leading the parade in New York City

    AAPI continues to march ahead and will reach West Bengal with the 11th AAPI GHS scheduled from Dec 28 to 30, 2017 in the beautiful city of joy, Kolkata. “Our focus will be continue making progress with the TBI guidelines dissemination, training of first responders and engaging local authorities to help address one of the major causes of road fatalities by pursuing four key aspects, awareness, pre-hospital care, in hospital and rehab. We are very fortunate that Mr. Amitabh Bachchan has been a strong supporter of our message and his name, voice and message on prevention continues to make a significant difference. AAPI will continue to broaden this activity in West Bengal,” declared Dr. Samadder.

    The AAPI GHS has also served as a sounding board for many Healthcare Leaders to freely exchange views, ideas and help resolve challenges that are addressed during the very effective CEO forums usually chaired by MOH officials and leading CEO. This has helped in attracting investment, advanced training and setting up hospitals, medical institutions etc. AAPI will continue the international research competition, EP, Cardiology, Urology and other workshops that will help in training several India based physicians. AAPI’s emphasis on promoting maternal and infant health has been a very well received initiative under the banner of “Women’s Leadership Forum”. This also serves as an inspiration for aspiring women leaders to see and hear from role models.

    The GHS 2017 will have a pre-session for AAPI delegates in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai, exploring the modern marvels, while post GHS session will take members to the natural wonders in the Himalayan regions in Bhutan. Registration for GHS and the sessions for the Dubai and Bhutan are open and members are encouraged to register online at www.aapighs2017.org

  • Indian American community supports Adrienne Adams for NYC

    Indian American community supports Adrienne Adams for NYC

    RICHMOND HILL, NY (TIP): Balwant S Hothi, a well-known Punjabi resident of Richmond Hill/ Ozone Park neighborhoods organized on August 11 a fundraiser for Adrienne Adams who is running for NYC.

    The event was supported by Sanjeev Jindal, Dharam Pal Singh, Jasbir Jay Singh, Deepak Bansal, Satnam Parhar, and many members from the community.

    Adrienne addresses community at the fundraiser

    “Adrienne has promised to work hand in hand with the Punjabi community to improve the public school system in the district. She is the only leader in working for the community in our neighborhood”, Balwant Hothi told The Indian Panorama. He added that he was supporting Adrienne because she is sincere and has promised that “our voice will be her voice”.

    The fundraiser attracted quite a few members of the Punjabi community.

  • A Crowd puller India Day Parade in Floral Park

    A Crowd puller India Day Parade in Floral Park

    QUEENS, NY (TIP): For the 2nd year in a row, India Day Parade organized by Floral Park – Bellerose Indian Merchants Association was a grand success. The numbers at the parade must have made the organizers more than happy for their efforts.

    The parade celebrated with a lot of fervor and enthusiasm was organized on August 12th. Thousands participated in the parade which was led by NYPD contingent including mounted police on horses followed by Fire Marshalls contingent and fire trucks.

    Bollywood actresses Tanushree Dutta (Ashiqs Banaya Aapne and Dhol fame) and Mahima Chaudhry (Pardes and Dhadkan fame) were Grand Marshals. They said it was a matter of pride that Indians abroad too celebrate India’s Independence Day with fervor.

    More than 30 organizations including 6 floats and an American Band marched in the parade. It was almost a mile long. Post parade there was a cultural Mela in Padavan – Preller field on 235th street. Cultural performances included traditional dances from various parts of India as well as patriotic and Bollywood songs.

    There were 17+ booths both nonfood and food sponsored by several local businesses. There were kiddie rides, clown and face painting activity. Elected officials from Nassau and Queens counties congratulated the people and organizers on 71st Independence Day celebration.  It was a very successful event attended by thousands and exhibited a great sense of pride and love for India. Besides national anthems from US and India one could hear the loud chanting of ” Jai Hind and Bharat Mata ki Jai. “

  • Oak Tree Road, New Jersey India Day Parade draws 40,000 enthusiasts

    Oak Tree Road, New Jersey India Day Parade draws 40,000 enthusiasts

    EDISON, NJ (TIP):  Indian American community in New Jersey celebrated India’s Independence Day at the Oak Tree Road Parade with fervor and enthusiasm. According to the organizers, more than 40, 000 enthusiasts turned up at the 13th annual India Day Parade, hosted by the Indian Business Association.  Bollywood star Riteish Deshmukh was the Grand Marshall.

    “We had an amazing turnout, largest in the history of this event,” said Dhiren Amin, President of the Association.  “Hundreds of volunteers worked around the clock to organize this event. I am really proud of our team,” he added.

    Present for the festivities were Phil Murphy and Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno, both candidates for Governor, along with their respective running mates. Also in attendance were several elected officials from both parties, including legislators, freeholders, and mayors.

    Edison Mayor Tom Lankey administered the Oath of Office to IBA Vice President Mahesh Bhagia, who has been appointed as Special Assistant to the Mayor for Edison Township.  “It was a historic moment” said Manher Shah, who is a trustee for IBA.

    The parade featured 19 floats, 2 marching bands, and a number of walking groups.  Over 100 organizations participated in the festivities. The Air India and JFK Hospital floats particularly drew the attention of the audience. Chandrakant Patel, Chairman for the organization thanked its sponsors. “Our sponsors are generous and supportive of the community. They should be commended.”

    A cultural program featuring local artists followed the parade.  The parade runs through Oak Tree Road, from Edison to Woodbridge. It is the only parade that runs through two towns.

  • India’s Independence Day celebrated in Atlantic City

    India’s Independence Day celebrated in Atlantic City

    ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (TIP): Atlantic City: South Jersey Indian Association organized the 8th Annual India Day Parade on August 12th from Taj Mahal Casino to Kennedy Plaza here. A fun-filled carnival atmosphere was planned with rich highlights depicting our cultural heritage, diversity, dance, music, and food. The parade was held from 3 – 6PM followed by mela at Brighton Park (Behind Claridges).

    Though there were showers earlier in the day, the weather cleared up just in time for the Parade.

    The event featured floats traveling from the Showboat Hotel down to Kennedy Plaza. Along with six floats, there were food tastings, clothing and jewelry on sale and performances by children throughout the event. Bollywood music played, and one person dressed up as Spider-Man to entertain the children.

    Romesh Ruthnaswamy, special adviser and one of the founders of SJIA, said the event was a celebration of culture and a way to promote the resort. Ruthnaswamy said visitors from New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware and more were in the city Saturday to see the parade travel down the Boardwalk. (News source: Pressofatlanticcity.com)

  • Hostage situation has ended in Charleston: Mayor

    Hostage situation has ended in Charleston: Mayor

    Fired dishwasher shoots chef; takes hostages in Charleston

    CHARLESTON, S.C. (TIP):  Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg said a hostage situation in a Charleston, South Carolina, restaurant has ended with the gunman being shot by police, says an AP report.

    Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg said the restaurant employee shot by the gunman on Thursday has died. Interim Charleston Police Chief Jerome Taylor says all the hostages at Virginia’s restaurant were rescued safely.

    Earlier, an angry employee shot one person and held “a couple” of others hostage at a crowded restaurant during lunchtime in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, authorities said.

    “This is not an act of terrorism. This is not a hate crime. It is a disgruntled employee,” Mr. Tecklenburg had said.

    The shooting was reported shortly after noon on Thursday.

    Charleston Police sent SWAT teams and a bomb disposal unit to the area. Authorities instructed people inside to stay put and those outside to leave the area.

    The site is a few blocks away from Emanuel AME church, where nine black members of a church were killed by a white man during a June 2015 Bible study. Dylann Roof was sentenced to death in the case.

  • August 25 New York Print Edition

    August 25 New York Print Edition

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  • Right to privacy verdict: Top lawyers unsure about Aadhaar’s future

    Right to privacy verdict: Top lawyers unsure about Aadhaar’s future

    NEW DELHI (TIP): The landmark verdict of the Supreme Court ruling on right to privacy as a fundamental right was on August 24, 2017 welcomed by jurists and senior advocates who termed it as “progressive” and protective of “the basic right”.

    They, however, said the verdict’s impact on Aadhaar scheme can be assessed once the full judgement and reasons given by the court are examined.

    Lauding the unanimous verdict of the nine-judge bench, senior advocate Soli Sorabjee said it showed the “good approach” of the Supreme Court which does not hesitate in over-ruling its previous judgements.

    The former Attorney-General said, “It is a very progressive judgement and protects the fundamental rights of the people. Privacy is a basic right which is inherent in every individual.”

    “The unanimity of the bench in giving this decision shows a very good approach of the Supreme Court. Any judgement which enlarges the fundamental rights of the people should be welcome,” he added.

    Expressing hope that the citizens of India would now be protected from any kind of snooping, senior advocate Indira Jaising said, “It is a day to celebrate.”

    “Privacy is fundamental. It certainly has an impact on the day-to-day life. This verdict prevents any kind of snooping,” she said.

    Mr. Sorabjee, on being asked about its impact on Aadhaar, said the reasoning of the apex court needs to be examined and one cannot say that Aadhaar will now be banned. “You cannot make a blanket and categorical statement that Aaadhaar will be banned or is unconstitutional. No fundamental right is absolute. It is always subject to reasonable restrictions.”

    Ms. Jaising too said what impact it will have on Aadhaar was a separate issue but privacy cannot be compromised after this verdict.

    Welcoming the decision, BJP spokesperson and senior advocate Aman Sinha, termed it a “good verdict” but with reasonable restrictions.

    “We welcome this judgement. This is a good verdict. The Supreme Court has declared the Right to Privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution. But like other Fundamental Rights, this is also subject to reasonable restrictions. We are awaiting the full judgement,” Mr. Sinha said.

    (Source: PTI)

  • Nandan Nilekani back at Infosys as Chairman

    Nandan Nilekani back at Infosys as Chairman

    BENGALURU (TIP): Nandan Nilekani, the 62-year-old co-founder of India’s second-largest software services exporter, returned to the Infosys board after an 8-year hiatus on Thursday, August 24, as the firm’s chairman, a move that investors expect would help end a bitter stand-off between founder N. R. Narayana Murthy and the company’s board, says a Hindu report.

    In an announcement, the Bengaluru-based company said that the board had unanimously approved Mr. Nilekani’s appointment as the non-executive chairman of the board “effective immediately.”

    Seshasayee, chairman of the board, along with former CEO and managing director Vishal Sikka, Jeffrey Lehman and John Etchemendy had stepped down from the board, Infosys said in a statement.

    Mr. Nilekani’s return was welcomed by the outgoing chairman Mr. Seshasayee, who said, “Under Nandan, Infosys will build a cohesive management team…I believe these changes will infuse further confidence to the stakeholders in executing the transition plan and in reinforcing the strategy for the future.”

    Mr. Nilekani’s appointment also saw Ravi Venkatesan step down as co-chairman, while staying on as an independent director.

    An electrical engineer from IIT Bombay, Mr. Nilekani was the CEO at Infosys from 2002 to 2007 and also served as co-chairman of the board before his departure in 2009 to head the Aadhaar project.

    Mr. Nilekani’s return was precipitated by Mr. Sikka’s abrupt resignation as CEO on August 18 amid a bitter and public row between the board and Mr. Murthy, with both sides trading a volley of charges and counter charges.

    Several institutional investors had urgently called for Mr. Nilekani’s return to help restore investor and customer confidence in the company.

    The board would actively consider a broad-based shareholder consultation as a key part of its overall engagement initiatives with stakeholders, Mr. Nilekani said in the statement.

    Balakrishnan, a former CFO said prior to Mr. Nilekani’s appointment, “We need a global face to pull the company up and restore confidence of investors and shareholders.”

    Infosys shares fell almost 10% on August 18 and lost more than 5% in the next trading session on August 21.

  • India Day Parade in New York City brings a riot of Tricolor

    India Day Parade in New York City brings a riot of Tricolor

    25 floats, dozens of marching bands and dancing groups; thousands cheering with tricolor in hands

    NEW YORK (TIP): Thousands of people from the Indian diaspora converged in the heart of New York, on August 20, to celebrate India’s 71st Independence Day at one of the largest parades outside India attended by ‘Baahubali’ actors Rana Daggubati and Tamannaah Bhatia.

    Grand Marshall and the Chief Guests. L to R: Rana Daggubati, General (Retd) Dalbir Singh Suhag and Tamannaah Bhatia.

    The 37th India Day Parade organized by the Federation of Indian Associations – New York, New Jersey, Connecticut – ran through several streets, from 38th to 26, on Madison Avenue in Manhattan on Sunday, August 20, and featured tableaux by several Indian-American organizations, marching bands, police contingents and cultural performances by young Indian-American children.

    For the first time in the 37-year-old history of India Day parade in New York City, a tableau dedicated to the creator of the Khalsa (Sikhs), Guru Gobind Singh formed part of the parade. Guru Gobind Singh sacrificed his entire life and family at the altar of safeguarding the rights of the underprivileged. He fought against injustice, tyranny and social differences. FIA President Andy Bhatia encouraged Harry Panaser, a social activist and lobbyist to arrange to have a float dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh whose 350th birth anniversary was celebrated earlier this year.

    On the float dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh. L to R: Deputy Consul General Paramita Tripathi, Harry Panaser, Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty, Jagdish Sewhany and Prof. Indrajit S Saluja

    Greeting the crowd, New York city Mayor Bill de Blasio said the Independence Day parade celebrates the “extraordinary contributions” of the Indian-American community to the city.

    “This is a day we appreciate what people do for the city regardless of what they look like, regardless of what language they speak, regardless of where they were born. Everyone here contributes to making New York City better and making America stronger. That is what we are celebrating today,” de Blasio said.

    The mayor, holding the Indian tricolor, waved to the thousands of people gathered along the parade route.

    Daggubati, the Grand Marshal for the parade, said it was a matter of great pride for him to celebrate the Independence Day with a large population of Indian-Americans.”It gives me a huge sense of pride to be here. The people here are the ambassadors of our country making us proud outside of India,” he said.

    Bhatia said, “It is amazing to see Indians celebrating” the country’s culture and heritage.”India has given me lot of freedom to express myself. It is very humbling to represent India at the parade,” she said.

    A float by the Indian Consulate in the city focused the rich cultural heritage of India’s northeast states.

    The Consulate General of New York Float. The theme for the tableau was North East States of India. The Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty and Deputy Consul General Paramita Tripathi with participants

    Thousands of people from the New York tri-state area came for the day-long celebration, which included special food stalls, cultural extravaganza and about 25 floats by various Indian organizations based in the US, including Air India and State Bank of India.

    Air India float. Regional Manager Vandana Sharma, the CG and the DCG with the Air India staff and crew
    All Women crew of Air India celebrates Independence Day

    People, including young children and seniors, raised patriotic slogans like ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Jai Hind’ and carried banners, placards and Indian and American flags as they witnessed the floats and celebrities from the barricaded pavements along the parade route. Indian music and popular Bollywood songs reverberated through the air as people celebrated with a fervor of patriotism.

    Several Americans and people belonging to different ethnicities also stopped to watch the parade and enjoy the festivities. Families had travelled from nearby states such as Connecticut, New Jersey and Massachusetts to witness the parade, an annual fixture in the city’s calendar since 1981.

    Mrs. & General Dalbir Singh Suhag with the Consul General Sandeep Chankravorty on the stand

    On India’s Independence Day on August 15, the iconic Empire State Building was lit up in the Indian tri-color.

    Commemorating the Day, India’s Consul-General in New York, Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty had rung the opening bell at the NASDAQ stock market in Times Square. Flag-hoisting ceremonies and commemorative events were held at the Indian Consulate as well as at India’s Permanent Mission to the UN.

    Maharashtra Dhol Tasa
    Haryana dancers

    Singer Kailash Kher had attended the flag hoisting ceremony at the permanent mission. Later speaking to PTI, Kher applauded the significant contributions of Indian Americans to the social and economic fabric of the US.

    He called on Indians settled in America to join hands and continue to make contributions that take India to the next level of growth and development, particularly through support of flagship Indian programs such as ‘Swachch Bharat’, ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ and ‘Digital India’.

    (With inputs from PTI)

  • India’s Independence Celebrated at NASDAQ

    India’s Independence Celebrated at NASDAQ

    NEW YORK CITY, NY (TIP): As a part of the celebrations for the 70th anniversary of Independence Day of India and India@70 series, Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty, rang the opening bell at NASDAQ on Tuesday, August 16, 2017.

    Speaking on the occasion, Consul General said, “Ours is an old civilization but a young country. India, a nation of 1.3 billion people, with 65 per cent under the age of 35 years, has emerged as the fastest growing major economy in the world. Our GDP growth rate this year is expected to be more than 7%. India is a bright spot of growth and stability in the global economy and is expected to remain so in the long run.

    On almost every index of economic performance – competitiveness, innovation, ease of doing business, logistics, attractiveness as an investment destination, consumer confidence and business optimism – India’s ranking is constantly improving. India’s progress will not only ensure the wellbeing of one-sixth of humanity, it will also provide a new engine of global prosperity and an anchor of its stability.

    About the Indo-US relations, he said,” The India-US relationship is a strong partnership that touches almost all areas of human endeavor. We consider the USA an important partner in our flagship programs such as Make in India, Digital India and Start Up India for bringing about inclusive social and economic changes in India. I also believe that amongst all the determinants of this incredible relationship, the most important are the financial sector tie ups which is the engine of growth and prosperity in both countries. In this the role of Nasdaq is critical.

    Since the first Indian company was listed at Nasdaq in 1999, the number has gone up steadily and Indian companies have generated value by their association with Nasdaq.

    Consul General thanked NASDAQ for continuing with the eight-year old tradition of celebrating India’s Independence with the ringing of the bell.

    Prominent members of the business and Indian community and media were present at the ceremony.

    This year marks the 8th year in the row that bell ringing ceremony was held at Nasdaq to commemorate India’s Independence Day.

  • Nikolay Kudashev is Russia’s new envoy to India

    Nikolay Kudashev is Russia’s new envoy to India

    NEW DELHI (TIP): Career diplomat Nikolay Kudashev has been appointed as Russia’s new ambassador to India, the Russian embassy here said.

    Kudashev, a specialist in South East Asia, is currently the Deputy Director General Secretariat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia.

    “President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin by the executive order appointed Nikolay Kudashev as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of India,” the Russian Embassy here said in a statement on Friday evening.

    The appointment of Kudashev comes nearly seven months after the death of Russia’s previous ambassador to India Alexander Kadakin.

    Kadakin, a fluent Hindi-speaking career diplomat considered a great friend of India, passed away on January 26 at a hospital here after a brief illness. He was 67.

    Kudashev was the Russian Ambassador to Micronesia and the Marshall Islands in 2014-2015. (Source PTI)

  • Indian American Joins New Jersey Democratic Coordinated Campaign Committee

    Indian American Joins New Jersey Democratic Coordinated Campaign Committee

    EDISON (TIP): Victory 2017, the coordinated campaign between Murphy for Governor and the New Jersey Democratic State Committee, announced the hiring of two veteran state political operatives including Indian American Amit Jani, who will undertake crucial roles between now and Election Day.

    Victory 2017 Director Iris M. Delgado said that Justin Braz and Amit Jani have joined the campaign effort. Braz will coordinate Victory 2017’s work among the state’s organized labor unions, while Jani will undertake electoral efforts among New Jersey’s growing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities.

    “Justin and Amit both bring a wealth of first-hand organizing experience that cannot be matched,” said Delgado. “They are trusted, they are tested, and they produce results. For the next 13 weeks, they will play critical roles in building the diverse coalition that Democrats will need to elect champions up and down the ballot. We are excited to have them aboard.”

    Amit Jani currently serves as a Hudson County Director for the South Asian American Caucus within the New Jersey Democratic State Committee.

    In 2016, he played a leadership role in South Asians for Hillary, which assisted the Hillary for America campaign on outreach nationally to the South Asian community — and currently serves as a national co-chair of the successor organization South Asians for America, which is committed to advocating for issues important to the South Asian American community and helping to elect progressive candidates across the country.

    Jani has also been a district representative for Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr., in Long Branch, and was a legislative aide to Congresswoman Judy Chu and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus in Washington. He has also assisted on campaigns in the14th Legislative District for Senator Linda Greenstein and Assemblymen Wayne DeAngelo and Daniel Benson.

    He is the co-founder and president of the New Jersey Leadership Program, a 501(c)3 organization that exposes South Asian youth to government and politics.

  • Indian American Sentenced to Prison for Participating in Mortgage Fraud Scheme

    Indian American Sentenced to Prison for Participating in Mortgage Fraud Scheme

    FREMONT (TIP): An Indian American Mahendra Prasad, 55, of Fremont, was sentenced Aug 14 by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. O’Neill to 15 months in prison and ordered to pay $328,000 in restitution for his role in a mortgage fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

    In May 22, 2017, Prasad pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud affecting a financial institution. According to court documents, in 2006, Prasad caused loan application packages that contained false statements to be submitted to a mortgage lender in order to buy a property in Sacramento. The false statements included statements concerning Prasad’s employer, income, and purported intention to occupy the property as his primary residence. Following his fraudulent purchase, Prasad, with the assistance of others, rented the property as Section 8 housing and collected rents. Prasad did not reside in or occupy the property as his primary residence.

    In 2013, Prasad applied to a bank to sell the property to another person at a loss to the bank. He falsely claimed to the bank that the “short” sale was an “arm’s length” transaction, and that neither he nor the buyer were related by commercial enterprise. Prasad’s conduct caused a loss to a financial institution of approximately $328,000.

    Co-defendants Jyoteshna Karan, Praveen Singh, Sunita Singh and Nani Isaac are scheduled for a jury trial in U.S. District Court in Fresno, on Monday, December 11, 2017.

  • Indian American man Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Victims in IRS Impersonator Scam

    Indian American man Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Victims in IRS Impersonator Scam

    MIAMI (TIP): A Miami resident of Indian origin was sentenced to 40 months in prison on Aug 15, to be followed by three years of supervised release for his role in defrauding victims in an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) impersonator scam.

    Anandkumar Jayanti LA Nayee, previously pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349, and one count of aggravated identity theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028A(a)(1).

    According to court documents, from January 2014 through early 2017, defendant Nayee conspired with others to defraud victims. Nayee’s co-conspirators contacted victims by telephone and made fraudulent representations to them, including that the victims owed income tax payments to the IRS, or owed fees for grants or loans that they had purportedly received. Nayee’s co-conspirators instructed the victims to deposit payments related to the taxes or fees that they purportedly owed onto debit cards and into bank accounts controlled by Nayee and his co-conspirators. Nayee and his co-conspirators then received and retained the victims’ payments.

    From January 2014 through February 28, 2014, a co-conspirator purchased Green Dot prepaid debit cards and provided the full debit card numbers to Nayee, who resided in India at the time. Nayee then caused the prepaid debit cards to be registered in the names of real people, and notified his co-conspirator once the cards had been funded by victims of the telephone fraud scheme. The co-conspirator then used the prepaid debit cards to purchase money orders, and deposited the money orders into bank accounts specified by Nayee.

    Nayee moved to the Southern District of Florida from India in 2015. He and his co-conspirators picked up funds that that had been sent via money transfer by victims of the telephone fraud scheme, and deposited those funds into accounts controlled by Nayee and his co-conspirators. Nayee was held responsible for at least $150,000 in victim losses during the telephone fraud scheme.

  • Indian American Investment Bank Vice President Pleads Guilty to Insider Trading

    Indian American Investment Bank Vice President Pleads Guilty to Insider Trading

    NEW YORK CITY,  NY (TIP): An Indian American executive Avaneesh Krishnamoorthy, who worked as a vice president and risk management specialist for a Manhattan-based investment bank pled guilty Aug 10 to a criminal Information charging him with engaging in a scheme to commit insider trading. Krishnamoorthy made over $78,000 by trading in the stock and options of three publicly traded companies based on material nonpublic information he misappropriated from the Investment Bank and its parent company (the “Company”). Krishnamoorthy pled guilty before United States District Judge Jesse M. Furman.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim said: “As he admitted today in federal court, Avaneesh Krishnamoorthy abused his position as an investment bank executive to get nonpublic information about several companies and then trade on it. We remain committed to prosecuting financial professionals whose greed drives them to break the law.”

    According to the allegations in court documents, including the Information and a previously filed criminal complaint, and statements made during court proceedings:

    As a vice president and risk management specialist, Krishnamoorthy was given access to material, nonpublic information concerning mergers and acquisitions in which the Investment Bank was potentially going to be retained.

    In November 2016, the Investment Bank was contacted about financing the acquisition of Neustar, Inc., a company whose shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, by a private equity fund. Krishnamoorthy received multiple emails regarding the Investment Bank’s potential involvement in the transaction, which also summarized the mechanics of the deal. In violation of the Company’s policies and in breach of his duties to the Company and its clients, Krishnamoorthy used this material nonpublic information to acquire Neustar stock and options. In the days and weeks after receiving the emails, Krishnamoorthy purchased numerous Neustar call options and hundreds of shares of Neustar stock before the public announcement of the transaction. Krishnamoorthy did not reveal these trades or the existence of the underlying brokerage accounts to the Company. The price of Neustar stock increased by approximately 20% following the public announcement of the Fund’s acquisition of Neustar on December 14, 2016. Krishnamoorthy also used material nonpublic information that he received from the Company to make profitable trades in securities of Cabelas Inc. and Axiall Corporation.

    As a result of the scheme, Krishnamoorthy reaped over $78,000 in ill-gotten gains, which he has agreed to forfeit to the Government as part of his plea agreement. Krishnamoorthy 42, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5 million, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The statutory maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge. He is scheduled to be sentenced November 21, 2017.

  • Singer Kailash Kher hosted at TV Asia

    Singer Kailash Kher hosted at TV Asia

     EDISON, NJ (TIP):  Kailash Kher, award-winning Indian pop-rock and Bollywood playback singer, was hosted at TV Asia Aug 17 for a live interactive session and a community reception.

    Kher, who was recently conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian award, is known for his unique and powerful voice and music style influenced by Indian folk and Sufi music.

    More than 200 members of the community attended. Kher was welcomed and led into the TV Asia auditorium by chairman H R Shah, himself a recent recipient of the Padma Shri.

    In welcoming Kher, Shah was joined at the event by Dr Navin Mehta, chairman of Bharatiya Vidhya Bhawan USA and Ramesh Patel, chairman of Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of NY, NJ and CT.

    Kher, who spoke in Hindi as well as English, took questions, interacting over two hours with an engaging audience.

    Often philosophical and emotive, Kher spoke eloquently about his life and career. He started off by recounting his days in New Delhi, where he grew up. He said his music was a summary of his life’s experiences.

    “My music is an extension of my struggles, failures and successes,” he told the audience. “I continue to learn every day and imbibe it in my singing.”

    Responding to an audience question, Kher noted he stayed focused even in his most difficult days. “I had set my eyes on being a musician and after I moved to Mumbai in 2001, I realized it was impossible to get work for an untrained singer like me, but I never lost hope.”

    Kher’s musical pedigree draws from his father, who was an amateur musician and whose performances of traditional folk songs were a regular household event. His first brush with music came in his childhood. Brought up in a musical atmosphere, from his school days, he was enchanted and fascinated by music, listening to his father’s Indian folk songs all day.

    During his TV Asia interaction, Kher entertained the audience with some of his selective poetry as well singing. The entire session was taped by TV Asia, to be broadcast on Aug 24.

  • Consulate General of India Celebrates India’s 71st Independence Day

    Consulate General of India Celebrates India’s 71st Independence Day

    NEW YORK CITY, NY (TIP): Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty unfurled the National Flag at the Consulate premises in the morning of 15 August. The unfurling of the flag was followed by the playing of the national anthem. Consul General read out President’s Address to the Nation delivered on the eve of the Independence Day.

    CG Sandeep Chakravorty reads out the President’s address

    A short cultural program was held by Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, which included singing of patriotic songs and poetry recitation.

    A section of the gathering

     More than 200 people including prominent members of the Indian community and local dignitaries, attended the ceremony.

    At the initiative of local Indian community organizations, iconic monuments in New York and surrounding areas were lit up on the occasion with the colors of the Indian flag. These included the Empire State Building, Niagara Falls among others.

    The Consulate, in association with various Indian business, professional and community organizations is organizing a series of events this year to celebrate India@70.

  • August 18 New York Print Edition

    August 18 New York Print Edition

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