LONDON (TIP): The Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE), an independent professional association for civil engineers and a charitable body in the UK representing 95,000 members, has elected the first Indian-origin president in its 205-year history in Professor Anusha Shah.
As the institution’s 159th president, Shah took charge of her new role with a presidential address on the theme of nature-positive civil engineering at ICE’s London headquarters on Tuesday evening.
Shah specializes in water and environmental engineering, with over 22 years’ experience in designing, managing and leading projects and programs in the UK and internationally. “My presidential year will be about how we become a nature and people-positive profession at heart,” Shah stated in her speech. “We have failed to understand the interrelationship between infrastructure and nature. We are implementing nature-based and green solutions globally, but in pockets. It’s not the norm yet,” she said. According to Professor Shah, in her 40s, construction is responsible for 30 per cent of biodiversity loss around the world, but adopting a nature and people-positive approach will enable engineers to reverse the environmental decline.
“Not only will we reach net zero faster, we’ll also improve climate resilience and reap multiple benefits for our society and the planet,” she noted.
In a film accompanying her speech, Shah said that it was time for civil engineers to better understand the inter-relationship between infrastructure and nature and do more.
“Building assets which do less harm to our natural world is not good enough anymore. To put it simply, we don’t have an option but to be nature-positive… Our infrastructure needs to interact with nature in a way which is restorative and regenerative, rather than extractive,” she said.
Shah grew up in Kashmir where the natural surroundings and their interaction with the built-up elements fascinated her from an early age. It was at the age of 23 that Shah discovered a consultancy in New Delhi working on the conservation of the Dal Lake in Kashmir and turned up at their office to talk her way into a consulting project engineer’s role.
She went on to become one of only two candidates to win a prestigious Commonwealth scholarship in 1999 and came to the UK to pursue an MSc in Water & Environmental Engineering at the University of Surrey.
“There’s absolutely nothing you can’t achieve if you set your mind to it and drive your life with the right values,” she told students as she accepted her honorary doctorate from the University of East London for her services to climate change in engineering.
The same year, in 2021, the University of Wolverhampton gave her an honorary professorship for knowledge transfer. Shah’s other firsts include the youngest ever and first female chair of the Institution of Civil Engineers, London Region, before becoming a fellow of ICE in 2016.
Two years later, she founded the climate change consultancy Plan for Earth with a focus on creating awareness around the climate crisis.
“I’m a civil engineer and I’m also someone who constantly thinks of global problems, how to change the world for better, contribute to make it fair and peaceful, solve water scarcity and create climate resilience and leave behind assets for our future generations,” she said.
Shah works as a senior director for resilient cities and the UK climate adaptation lead at Arcadis, a Netherlands-based global design, engineering and management consulting company. She is currently seconded to the Effiage, Kier, Ferrovial and BAM Nuttall joint venture on the UK’s High Speed (HS) 2 rail project as senior director of environmental consents.
Shah is also a non-executive director at the UK’s Meteorological Office, a Royal Academy of Engineering visiting professor at King’s College London on climate adaptation, sustainability and inclusive design and a visiting professor at the University of Edinburgh.
Tag: NRI
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First Indian-origin Anusha Shah appointed as president of UK’s Institute of Civil Engineers
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Indian-origin author Nandini Das wins 2023 British Academy Book Prize
LONDON (TIP): India-born author Nandini Das has been named the winner of the 2023 British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Understanding, a leading international non-fiction prize worth GBP 25,000, for her book ‘Courting India: England, Mughal India and the Origins of Empire’.
The UK-based academic’s debut work, described as the “true origin story of Britain and India told through England’s first diplomatic mission to the Mughal courts”, was revealed as this year’s winner at a ceremony at the British Academy in London on Tuesday evening.
As a Professor in the English faculty at the University of Oxford, the 49-year-old author has sought to present a new perspective on the origins of empire through the story of the arrival of the first English ambassador in India, Sir Thomas Roe, in the early 17th century. “By using contemporary sources by Indian and British political figures, officials and merchants she has given the story an unparalleled immediacy that brings to life these early encounters and the misunderstandings that sometimes threatened to wreck the whole endeavor,” said Professor Charles Tripp, Chair of the prize jury. “At the same time, she grants us a privileged vantage point from which we can appreciate how a measure of mutual understanding did begin to emerge, even though it was vulnerable to the ups and downs of Mughal politics and to the restless ambitions of the British,” he said.
He described how through her beautiful writing and exceptional research, the jury was drawn to the contrast between an impoverished, insecure Britain and the flourishing, confident Mughal Empire and the often-amusing, sometimes querulous exchanges between their various representatives.
The British Academy Book Prize, formerly known as the Nayef Al-Rodhan Prize, was established in 2013 to reward and celebrate the best works of non-fiction that demonstrate rigor and originality and have contributed to public understanding of other world cultures and their interaction. Das will receive GBP 25,000 for winning the prize.
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Indian Punjabi girl murdered in UK; husband arrested
CHANDIGARH (TIP): Relatives of Mehak Sharma (19), who was found murdered at her residence in Croydon in South London, have claimed that her husband had repeatedly been threatening her with dire consequences and, on Sunday, he murdered her. Mehak was a resident of Jogi Cheema village in Gurdaspur district of Punjab. She was married to Gurdaspur resident Sahil Sharma (23) on June 24 last year. The girl, according to her mother Madhu Bala, had gone to London five months after she tied the knot with Sahil.
Sahil is a resident of New Sant Nagar in Gurdaspur. He followed his wife to the UK on a spouse visa. Bala said her daughter had told her many times that Sahil had been ill-treating her.
“Mehak used to ring me up every morning. However, on Sunday, October 29, I did not receive any call. I thought she must be busy. However, when I did not get a call on Monday, I got panicky. I, subsequently, asked my relative, who lives about 150 km away from Croydon, to visit Mehak and inform me accordingly. It was in the evening that he rang me and told me that the London Metropolitan Police had taken Sahil into custody after being charged with murder of Mehak,” said Madhu Bala.
Mehak was working as a caretaker with Fabulous Homecare Limited, a home care provider operating out of Croydon. Bala’s husband, Tarlok Chand, had died a few years ago.
Mehak’s relatives say they have requested Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to make arrangements to bring her body back from the UK. “I have requested the government to step in and ask the Indian High Commission in London to make preparations to ship the body to India,” she said. She added that she had got to know that the London Metropolitan Police had asked people living near Mehak’s house to come forward and provide information which could later help them in their investigations.
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Indian American physician honored by Jewish group for standing against antisemitism
CHICAGO (TIP): An influential Jewish group has felicitated Indian American physician Dr Bharat Barai for his relentless effort to strengthen ties between India, the US and Israel and his stand against antisemitism.
“We stand with you, our Jewish brothers and sisters,” said Dr Bharat Barai, an ardent advocate of the India-Israel relationship who has made six trips to Israel, adding that the collaborative relationship between the Hindu and the Jewish communities has benefited both. Dr Barai was presented the award “for standing against antisemitism” at the “Campus Championship Gala” of StandWithUS on Sunday, October 29.
“Hindus all over the world, along with most of the civilized world have condemned these brutal barbarian Hamas, affirming their solidarity with the Jewish people, and supporting the right of Israel to defend itself and demolish the demand of mass,” Barai said amidst standing ovation from the hall full Jewish people in a suburb of Chicago.
He hoped that after Hamas is eliminated by Israel, more countries from the Middle East would join the Abraham Accord. Referring to some of the news reports, he said these are by individuals who are misinformed or uninformed or hardcore religiously indoctrinated individuals. These are fabricated narratives, playing the victim card after committing a barbaric atrocity.
Peggy Shapiro Director of Special Projects “Stand With US” praised Dr Barai for his relentless support of the Jewish communities and the relationship between India, the US and Israel. She referred to the ongoing atrocities against the Jews by Hamas this month.
“That’s the special level of evil,” said Peggy Shapiro Director of Special Projects “Stand With US” referring to the recent brutalities and atrocities perpetrated by Hamas against innocent Jews in particular young children and calling for the destruction of the only Jewish State. “We are all here in solidarity,” she said, “Never again is not an expired slogan,” she asserted. Born in Mumbai, Dr Barai is a distinguished physician, a respected leader of the Hindu American community, and an outspoken Zionist who helped pave the road for closer ties between Israel and India as well as between the Hindu and Jewish American communities.
“Dr Barai has been very active in promoting India, US, and Israel relations,” StandWithUS said.
In his leadership role in the Indian American community, Dr Barai has made it a priority to establish and strengthen ties to the Jewish and Pro-Israel community, it said.
Barai was instrumental in StandWithUs’s outreach. He made it possible for StandWithUs to host events such as “Ancient Cultures-Modern Miracles,” a community celebration of 65 years of India and Israel’s independence, a Hindu-Jewish Festival of Lights Celebrating Chanukah and Diwali, and dozens of programs, including a memorial for Daniel Pearl, underscoring the commonalities between the two communities, it said.
“When Israel was under attack by Hamas and in the media, Dr Barai mobilized Hindu support for three Interfaith Vigils for the Victims of Hamas,” the organization said.
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Indian American professor at Stanford Arogyaswami Joseph Paulraj wins Faraday Medal
LONDON (TIP): The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) has awarded the prestigious Faraday Medal to Arogyaswami Joseph Paulraj, an Indian American professor at Stanford University for his contributions to wireless technology. Paulraj was among 11 of the world’s top engineering and technology talent honored by the UK-based multidisciplinary professional engineering institution for services to the industry, on Oct 23 at IET 2023 Achievement Awards. Described as “one of this year’s most significant awards, the Faraday Medal,” was awarded to Paulraj for the invention, advancement, and commercialization of Multiple-antenna Input, Multiple-antenna Output (MIMO) wireless technology, according to a media release.
MIMO is a fundamental breakthrough technology that multiplied the link speed and improved the range and reliability of wireless networks. The performance of today’s extensive 4G/5G mobile and WiFi networks would not be possible without MIMO.
On winning his award, Paulraj said, “The Faraday Medal is such an honor. I am humbled to be included in this distinguished cohort of former recipients. Though the prize is presented to an individual, it also recognizes the field of wireless communications systems and the thousands of researchers and engineers who contributed to MIMO technology for the benefit of humanity.”
The IET Achievement Awards recognize individuals from all over the world who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of engineering, technology and science in any sector. This can be through research and development in their respective technical field or through their leadership of an enterprise.
Dr. Gopichand Katragadda, IET President, emphasized the importance of Engineering Excellence achieved through knowing and practicing the fundamentals, being systems-oriented and detailed, and having a delivery mindset while preparing for the next. “We’re honored to present these talented individuals with our Achievement Awards. Our medal winners are innovators and pioneers, making a difference to the world in which we live,” he said. Paulraj, Professor Emeritus Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, a pioneer of MIMO wireless communications did his BE from Naval College of Engineering, Lonavala, and earned his PhD from Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi.
He is the author of over 400 research papers, two textbooks, and a co-inventor in 80 US patents.
Paulraj has won over a dozen awards, notably the National Inventors Hall of Fame (USPTO), Marconi Prize and Fellowship, 2014 and the IEEE Alexander Graham Bell Medal, 2011. He is a fellow of eight scientific / engineering national academies including the US, China, India, and Sweden.
In 1999, Paulraj founded Iospan Wireless Inc. – which developed and established MIMO-OFDMA wireless as the core 4G technology. Iospan was acquired by Intel Corporation in 2003.
In 2004, he co-founded Beceem Communications Inc. The company became the market leader in 4G-WiMAX semiconductors and was acquired by Broadcom Corp. in 2010. In 2014 he founded Rasa Networks to develop Machine Learning tools for WiFi Networks. The company was acquired by HPE in 2016. During his 30 years in the Indian (Navy) (1961-1991), he founded three national-level laboratories in India and headed one of India’s most successful military R&D projects – APSOH sonar. He received over a dozen awards (many at the national level) in India including the Padma Bhushan, Ati Vishist Seva Medal and the VASVIK Medal.
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Indian-origin soldier Halel Solomon among Israelis killed in Gaza
JERUSALEM (TIP): A 20-year-old Indian-origin Israeli soldier was among the Israeli combatants killed while fighting in Gaza, community members and the Mayor of the town said on Wednesday, November1.
Staff-Sgt. Halel Solomon was from the southern Israeli town of Dimona. “It is with great sorrow and grief that we announce the death of a son of Dimona, Halel Solomon, in the battle in Gaza,” Dimona’s Mayor, Benny Bitton said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.
“We share in the grief of the parents, Ronit and Mordechai, and the sisters: Yasmin, Hila, Vered, and Shaked …. Halel aspired to do meaningful service and enlisted in the Givati (Brigade). Halel was a devoted son and had respect for his parents always in his eyes. Possessing immense good qualities, he believed in endless giving, modesty, and humility. The whole city of Dimona is grieving his passing,” Bitton wrote.
Dimona is a town in the south of Israel identified with Israel’s nuclear reactor, but some also describe it as “little India” given the large concentration of Jews from India in the township.
Indian community members told PTI that he was “a young man with pleasant manners and a very bright future ahead.” They expressed huge sorrow at his passing away and at the loss of lives of other young Israelis “fighting a just war for Israel’s existence.”
At least 11 Israeli soldiers have been killed in the battle in Gaza in what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described as a “difficult war” with “painful losses,” but vowed to continue “until victory.” “We are in a difficult war. This will be a long war. We have so many important achievements but also painful losses,” Netanyahu said.
“We know that every soldier of ours is an entire world. The entire people of Israel embrace you, the families, from the depth of our hearts. We are all with you during your heavy sorrow. Our soldiers have fallen in the most just of wars, the war for our home,” the Israeli Prime Minister said.
“I promise the citizens of Israel: We will complete the work – we will continue until victory,” he stressed.
At least 1400 Israelis were killed in a deadly attack carried out by Hamas on Israel’s southern communities on October 7. They also took at least 240 people as hostages during that surprise infiltration. Israel, backed by the United States and some other Western nations, declared war against Hamas which has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007 with two stated goals – elimination of the terror organization and freeing the hostages. More than 8,000 people have died in Gaza since Israel launched a counter-offensive by first carrying out widespread air strikes and then slowly launching ground incursions that have been intensifying over the last three days.
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Indian American Dr. Shyam Kottilil gets Kerala Center’s lifetime achievement award
NEW YORK (TIP): Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center (The Kerala Center) has honored eight individuals for notable contributions in their professions and to society with selfless dedication.
Dr. Shyam Kottilil from Baltimore was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions in the field of virology and scientific research by New York Senator Kevin Thomas at the Center’s 31st Annual Awards Dinner in Elmont, New York on Oct 28.
In his keynote speech, Kottilil explained the successes and failures of managing the Covid outbreak and how to prevent future outbreaks which according to him will certainly happen sometime in the future, according to a media release. The award for entrepreneurship went to Sajeeb Koya, the man behind the LED Façade lighting that lights up Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. His company 3S International headquartered in Pickering, Ontario, Canada, has executed numerous vibrant Architectural and Media Façade LED projects all over the world. Koya said that his goal is to complete 100 such projects all over the world.
The award for Media and Journalism went to Ajay Ghosh, Chief Editor and Co-Publisher of The Universal News Network (www/theunn.com). He serves as Media Coordinator for the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) and ITServe Alliance. Ghosh was the founding President of Indo-American Press Club and is Secretary of its Board of Directors. The award for community service went to Gopala Pillai who has served as the President and Board Member of several organizations in Texas and Detroit and has been with the World Malayali Council from1995 as its Secretary, President, and Chairman. Through these organizations, he has been able to provide many services for the good of society.
The award for outstanding achievements in Medicine went to Dr. Shelby Kutty, a physician-scientist and academic leader, serving as the Helen B. Taussig endowed professor and director of pediatric and congenital cardiology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
He also chairs the analytic intelligence program at Johns Hopkins and is one of the world’s preeminent experts on multimodality cardiovascular imaging.
The award for contributions to Pravasi Malayalam Literature went to Jayant Kamicheril, a recipient of the Kerala Sahithya Academy award for 2022 for his book “Oru Kumarakom Karantay Kuruthamketta.”
The award for excellence in Nursing went to Dr. Anna George, current president of the Indian Nurses Association of New York (INANY).
She is a Nurse, a nurse practitioner, a human rights advocate, and a social activist. She is a leader who transformed the nursing professional organization INANY into a professional entity.
The award for legal service went to Lata Menon, an accomplished barrister and solicitor and active community member, who has become a recognized name in the legal community in Ontario as well as the Indian states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala, where she practiced as a lawyer before immigrating to Canada.
Kerala Center president Alex K. Esthappan provided a brief description of the activities and goals of the Center. New York Senator Kevin Thomas and Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages presented the awards. They were introduced by Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of the Trustee Board and Award Committee member.
Sen. Thomas, a prior awardee himself, praised the Kerala Center for honoring individuals who excelled in their professions and served society with dedication.
Legislator Solages remarked that students of Indian and Malayalee descent made him a better student and that helped him to go to George Town University.
Dr. Madhu Bhaskaran, the chairman of the Award Committee and Board of Directors, explained the process of selecting the awardees. The ceremony was attended by leaders of many community organizations including FOMAA and FOKANA. As part of the Award Ceremony, a souvenir was released by the souvenir committee consisting of P.T. Paulose and Jose Kadapuram, by giving a copy to U. A. Naseer.
Inaugurated in 1993 Kerala Center has honored over 200 individuals of Keralite descent who excelled in their profession and/or made great contributions to the larger society in the last 30 years.
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Indian Origin Sikh man who murdered his wife in London jailed for 15 years
LONDON (TIP): A 79-year-old Sikh man has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 15 years after murdering his wife with a bat at their house in east London in May this year. Tarsame Singh was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to killing his 77-year-old wife, Maya Devi. On May 2, Singh walked into the Romford police station and told the front desk that he had just killed his wife, following which officers immediately attended the house on Cowdray Way in Elm Park and found Maya unresponsive on the living room floor.
The wooden bat was found nearby and a significant amount of blood staining was found on the carpet and nearby walls. Maya was pronounced dead at the scene and a post-mortem examination found the cause of death to be head injuries. Singh was charged the next day and remanded into custody.
Met Police’s Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, who led the investigation, said: “This is a tragic case and one which has left the couple’s three children utterly distraught. No-one should ever lose their mother in this way and we will continue to think of, and support them, at this difficult time.
“Singh has never admitted what caused him to act in such a violent way that evening but we are pleased he has pleaded guilty and will now face a significant custodial sentence.”
Singh ran a post office along with his wife in Rainham, an east London suburb close to his home, for years before retiring recently. Both Singh and Maya, parents of a son and two daughters, are originally from India but had been living in Britain for more than 50 years.
(Source: IANS)
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Indian-origin student stabbed at US gym battles for life
VALPRAISO, INDIANA (TIP): Varun Raj Pucha, the 24-year-old Indian student who was stabbed at a fitness center in the US state of Indiana over the weekend, continues to be in a critical condition and is on life support, sources familiar with his treatment said.
Varun Raj Pucha, a computer science student, was stabbed with a knife in the temple by assailant Jordan Andrade, 24, at the public gym on Sunday morning for reasons that the authorities are still investigating.
“After three days of treatment, Varun continues to be on life support and has severe neurological impairment. He is likely to sustain permanent disability and have partial, if not complete, vision loss and left-sided weakness,” sources told media. Following the incident, Jordan was arrested and is facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and attempted murder.
Varun has now been transferred to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne because of the serious nature of the injuries.
Meanwhile, assailant Andrade, who appeared before Porter Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Clymer, pleaded not guilty to the charges of Level 1 felony, and a Level 3 felony.
The judge set his bond at US$ 500,000 cash and US$ 500,000 surety. According to media reports, Andrade said he could afford a USD 300,000 bond. The judge deemed Andrade a flight risk.
The university president expressed shock over the brutal attack on one of its students.
“We are shocked and saddened by the attack on Varun Raj. At Valparaiso University, we consider each other’s family, and this incident is horrifying for us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with all his friends and family,” José Padilla, the university’s president, said in a statement provided to the media on Wednesday.
“In addition to our thoughts and prayers, the University and Valpo Community are offering all assistance and resources available to help Varun’s family get to the United States as quickly as possible,” Michael Fenton said in an email to media, adding that the university also is providing full support to the ongoing investigation by the Valparaiso Police Department. The North American Telugu Society (NATS) has started a fundraiser on GoFund and by Wednesday, November 1 night raised over US$ 38,000.
“Currently, he is in critical condition, battling for his life, and his family is facing a harrowing journey filled with uncertainty and overwhelming medical bills. We were contacted by the family with a heavy heart, asking for our support to cover his extensive medical expenses and travel expenses for his parents to the US,” NATS said.
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Indo-Canadian basketball star Ishan Sharma commits to University of Virginia
TORONTO, ON (TIP): Indo-Canadian basketball prodigy Ishan Sharma is set to move south of the border to play for the University of Virginia next year. The highly touted 6’5 shooting guard, who is a member of the class of ’24 at the Fort Erie International Academy in Fort Erie, Ontario, announced his commitment on social media on October 21. The Cavaliers had offered him a scholarship just the week before. The rising senior year has already represented Canada in multiple international FIBA tournaments.
Sharma’s shooting prowess caught the attention of Cavaliers Coach Tony Bennett and his staff during the Nike EYBL Peach Jam this summer, as reported by media. During this summer’s EYBL circuit, he demonstrated an impressive ability to sink shots from beyond the arc, maintaining a remarkable success rate of nearly 45% for UPLAY Canada.
According to SI, Sharma had recently visited UVA. He expressed his excitement by posting, ‘Blessed to receive an offer from the University of Virginia,’ on his X account on October 16 after the visit. He reportedly also received offers from Cavaliers’ in-state rival Virginia Tech, as well as Seton Hall, Arizona State, Rice, Indiana State, Wyoming, Northern Illinois, Marist, Maine and Eastern Michigan, among other schools.
With Sharma adding a formidable shooting presence, he and the Cavaliers could be a great match, says a college basketball expert.
“Poor perimeter shooting has doomed the Wahoos in recent seasons, so it’s encouraging that UVA has locked down an elite shooter for 2024,” writes Zach Carey of Streaking the Lawn, which covers Virginia basketball and football. “If there’s one thing Sharma does well, it’s shoot the ball. He’ll be a very good catch-and-shoot threat who Bennett and his staff can scheme open looks for, like they have for their best shooters over the years. He’s also displayed the ability to hit shots off the dribble, indicating that his offensive game could expand beyond the perimeter in time.”
Another longtime Virginia sports analyst expressed equal enthusiasm about Sharma.
Jerry Ratcliffe, who covers Virginia Athletics, highlighted Sharma’s “reputation as a dangerous perimeter shooter” and noted that he “has an extended game.”
Ratcliffe also quoted Josh Millican, a Canadian basketball recruiting analyst who hosts the podcast ‘Maple Minute,’ describing Sharma as a ‘hidden gem.’
‘Ishan is under the radar in terms of American ranking systems. I can tell you he is one of the top five prospects in all of Canada,’ according to Millican.
“He’s unbelievable with the ball in his hands,” Millican said of Sharma, according to Ratcliffe. “He’s a three-level scorer but doesn’t dribble excessively. He’s a tactical playmaker in the sense that he’s not beating guys with sheer will or athleticism… he’s thinking the game, finding your weaknesses, and exposing them. He’s thinking two, three plays ahead and can’t be rattled by trash-talking.”
The Cavaliers, an ACC powerhouse, won their first NCAA championship in the 2018-2019 season by defeating Texas Tech in the championship game. -
Indian American leader Samir Mayekar to lead Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation
CHICAGO (TIP): Samir Mayekar, an Indian American innovation leader is set to lead the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation as managing director from November 6. As head of the Polsky Center, Mayekar will play a pivotal role in advancing the university’s ambitious priorities in innovation, technology commercialization and entrepreneurship, the university announced Oct 18.
It stated that he will foster connections across the University, the city of Chicago, the region and the world that will enable the Polsky Center to accelerate the commercialization of critical technologies, it stated.
Most recently, Mayekar with a track record of driving innovation and impact across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors, served as deputy mayor for the city of Chicago, where he focused on economic and neighborhood development.
He was a driving force behind initiatives such as the city’s INVEST South/West initiative, which marshaled resources from across city departments, community organizations, and corporate and philanthropic partners to support commercial corridors across several South and West Side neighborhoods.
“Samir brings a marvelous energy to building partnerships and is creative and thoughtful in his approach to new business opportunities,” said President Paul Alivisatos. “The University and the Polsky Center will benefit from his talent, experience and commitment.”
Mayekar’s work in both high-tech innovation and urban economic development is well-matched to the Polsky Center’s goals and mission, including the advancement of a wide range of technologies—from clean energy and life sciences to quantum, information sciences and data science, according to a university release.
“The Polsky Center is committed to solving humanity’s most significant problems through breakthrough innovation,” said Juan de Pablo, Executive Vice President for Science, Innovation, National Laboratories and Global Initiatives and the Liew Family Professor in Molecular Engineering.
“I am confident that Samir will build on the accomplishments of the Polsky Center in technology commercialization, entrepreneurship, and innovation, and elevate our efforts to help drive economic development on the South Side through partnerships that bolster UChicago and our city’s upward trajectory as hubs of world-class innovation.”
“Samir has demonstrated throughout his career that he is a leader and a builder of organizations and initiatives in which ideas can grow and flourish,” said Madhav V. Rajan, dean of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and the George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting. “We look forward to working with him to further promote innovation and collaboration and advance the Polsky Center’s ambitious goals.”
Prior to working for the city of Chicago, Mayekar served in the Obama administration, where he was part of the White House’s national security team and the executive staff at the US International Development Finance Corporation.
Mayekar also cofounded and served as CEO of NanoGraf Corporation, a global manufacturer of advanced materials for the lithium-ion battery industry that has raised over $100 million in funding and was spun out of Argonne National Laboratory and Northwestern University.
“I am excited to bring my civic, corporate and entrepreneurial experience to enhance the Polsky Center’s role as a platform to both support local economic development on the South Side and advance the commercialization of globally needed technologies to solve critical issues—from climate change to public health and responsible artificial intelligence,” Mayekar said.
He earned his bachelor’s degree and MBA from Northwestern, where he served as a trustee. Mayekar is active in the Chicago civic community, serving on the boards of the Metropolitan Pier and Exhibition Authority, Lyric Opera and other organizations.
He is also a visiting scholar at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and is an alum of the Marshall Memorial Fellowship and the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans.
The Polsky Center was established in 1998 through Chicago Booth to provide training and venture support for students pursuing opportunities in entrepreneurship. It has since grown to include the Polsky Exchange, which assists local business owners with financial and other advisory services; and the recently launched Deep Tech Ventures initiative, which offers sector-specific accelerators to bring world-changing technologies to market.
The Polsky Center is also home to the University’s technology commercialization office. -
Indian-origin man faces 16 charges for pepper-spraying police, carjacking bid in Canada’s Brampton
TORONTO (TIP): A 24-year-old Indian-origin man is facing 16 charges for attempting to steal a vehicle and pepper-spraying responding police officers in the Canadian province of Ontario.
Rajbir Singh from Brampton was charged recently with two counts each of assaulting a peace officer, assault with intent to resist arrest, failure to comply with a release order, and possession of a controlled substance. He also faces one count each of possession of an imitation weapon, breach of probation and theft of a motor vehicle, as well as a handful of other offences, CTV news channel reported.The Peel Regional Police said that on the evening of October 6, officers were investigating a vehicle in a hotel parking lot with a suspicious license plate when the driver allegedly attempted to flee, causing damage to several vehicles. As Singh was running away from the police, he unsuccessfully tried to steal a vehicle and carjack another, the report said citing police. When officers located him, he allegedly pepper sprayed them before being taken into custody.
The officers sustained minor injuries and were treated by paramedics at the scene.
In addition to the 16 charges, Singh is also facing charges related to five separate incidents last year for similar offences. Meanwhile, the Peel police said on Thursday that it is also looking for another Indo-Canadian, 26-year-old Gurprit Singh from Brampton, who recklessly drove through a crowded parking lot to escape chasing police officers. A warrant has been issued against Gurprit for dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, obstructing a peace officer and flight from a peace officer. Earlier this month, Navjot Singh (21), attempted to carjack a vehicle before stealing a landscaping truck hours after being released on bail in Newmarket town in Ontario.
(Source: IANS) -
Sikhs in Fiji Police force now allowed to wear turban with official crown
- Acting Commissioner of Police says move a testament of the organization’s commitment in upholding the fundamental principles of equality and diversity
SUVA, FIJI (TIP): Navjeath Singh Sohata has become the first Sikh cop to don a turban with the official Fiji Police crown after the island nation’s police force approved changes to the uniform in a bid to promote diversity, IANS reports.
Recognizing that the respect for diversity and inclusivity are integral to the success of policing efforts, Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew approved the wearing of a turban with the official Fiji Police crown.
Police Constable Sohata, 20, is a member of Batch 66 undergoing the Basic Recruits Course Training in Nasova, after being selected from the open market recruitment drive.
A devout Sikh, Sohata had marched into the academy knowing the training requirements would require personal sacrifices on his part.
“However, the Acting Commissioner of Police, in respecting Sohata’s rights, approved the wearing of the turban with the official Fiji Police crown,” the Fiji Police said in a statement.
Commissioner Chew said the move was a testament of the organization’s commitment to upholding the fundamental principles of equality and diversity.
According to a book by Stanley Brown, ‘The History of the Fiji Police Force’, the first Sikh constables were recruited in force the early 1910s.
Sharing his experience as a recruit, Sohata, who hails from Dreketi village in Northern Division of Fiji, said it was difficult at first being away from his family.
“I have a number of people in my life who I look up to as inspiration and role models, and it is my goal to make them proud and be just as good as them when it comes to my professional life,” Sohata said.
According to records kept by the Lautoka Gurudwara, Sikhs arrived in Fiji towards the end of the indentured labor system and mostly established themselves as farmers, policemen and teachers.
The first school built by Sikhs in Fiji was the Khalsa High School in Ba district and the Suva gurdwara, built in 1922, is the oldest of all.
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GOPIO-CT Chapter Hosts Welcome Dinner for University of Connecticut Students
STAMFORD, CT (TIP): GOPIO-CT organized a highly successful Meet and Greet session with the new students enrolled at the University of Connecticut Business School on Friday, October 20th at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Stamford, CT. An Interactive Discussion Panel “Tips on How to Market Oneself and Succeed in America.” followed. It was moderated by GOPIO-CT President Dr. Jaya Daptardar MHA, Chief Strategy and Compliance Officer, Bridges Healthcare, Milford, CT. The program, coordinated by GOPIO Trustees Prasad Chintalapudi and Dr. Thomas Abraham, started with welcoming remarks by Chintalapudi. Chintalapudi shared his own experience of being an entrepreneur. He then introduced GOPIO Chairman Dr. Abraham for his greetings.
Dr. Abraham said, “America is the greatest country which provides opportunity to open up your mind and you can be whatever you want to become, whether a professional in a large corporation, or help to manage a hedge fund or as a scientist or professor or as an entrepreneur, so, go and grab the opportunities awaiting you.”
Prasad invited panelists and the moderator GOPIO-CT President Dr. Jaya Daptardar. The panelists were: Vijay Anand, CEO, Everest DX, Stamford, CT; Indira Yedavalli, Vice President, Franklin Templeton Investments, New York; Sushanth Krishnamurthy, Director of IT, UBS, Stamford, CT; Prashanthi Reddy, Esq, Immigration Attorney, New York, NY; Amit Lakhotia, Founding Principal ADH (A Real Estate Development and Management Company), Westport, CT; Padmini Viswanath, MPH, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Manager, Last Mile, New York City; Anand Chavan, Senior Director of S&P Global Market Intelligence, New York. Many GOPIO-CT members also attended, so the students had one to one interaction with senior GOPIO members. All the students at the event were introduced at the beginning of the panel discussion.
Panelists at the Session Discussion “Tips on How to Market Oneself and Succeed in America.” From l. to r. Anand Chavan, Amit Lakhotia, Padmini Viwanath, Sushanth Krishnamurthy, Vijay Anand, Indira Yedavalli, Prashanthi Reddy, Esq. and Moderator Dr. Jaya Daptardar. Each of the panelists were asked to talk about their journey to where they reached today and how earlier career choices lead them to where they are now. The panelists provided personal experience to their success. The panelists also provided guidance and inputs on educational preparation, resume preparation, necessary prior experience, what skills are the most important and transferable skills to acquire so as to market oneself to the American job market. A question/answer session followed.
Important questions were asked to immigration attorney Prashanti Reddy about do’s and don’ts for students from the immigration law perspective. Students were keen to get more information on the process to apply for a permanent visa. Multiple questions were asked by the students about the guidance for fresh grads who are looking for jobs in this tough job market. Panelists suggested to do networking with community, join linked and follow those in one’s filed of interest and utilize the alumni network of one’s graduating school from India. Many careers were discussed during the Q/A session, which ended with vote of thanks presented by GOPIO CT executive vice president Mahesh Jhangiani.
Over the last 17 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International has become an active and dynamic organization hosting interactive sessions with policy makers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring and networking workshops, and working with other area organizations to help create a better future. GOPIO-CT – Global Organization of People of Indian Origin – serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic and community service organization – promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs and contributions of PIOs through community programs, forums, events and youth activities. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and create an ongoing dialogue with local communities.
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Sriniketan Foundation Sangeet Mahotsav dished out a musical treat to savor for a long time
Purnima ji impressed with a Kathak performance
BHARATNATYAM, MOHINIATTAM AND FOLK DANCE RECIALS BY CHANDRIKA AND LAKSHMI GROUP. 
LAKSHMI KURUP GAVE A SPLENDID PERFORMANCE ON SRI RAM’S CHILDHOOD DANCE THUMAK CHALAT RAMACHANDRA. 
CHANDRIKA KURUP THE DIRECTOR OF NUPUR DANCE SCHOOL WITH PURNIMA JI AND STUDENTS. Flora Parikh
FLUSHING, NY (TIP): Sriniketan Foundation, a 501 (C) (3), non-profit organization founded by Purnima A. Desai in 2015, celebrated its Annual Sangeet Mahotsav – an International Music Festival by internationally renowned artists with a special tribute to Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhathkhande on October 14. 2023.
The organization is An Abode of Success of Body, Mind & Soul through Various Therapies, geared towards uplifting the cultural heritage and rich treasure of India’s classical music, dance and natural healing therapy. Each year, the organization showcases the talent of internationally renowned artists and recognizes their phenomenal talent, unrivaled contributions, and dedication to preserving the heritage of Hindustani Classical Music.
At Sangeet Mahotsav 2023, over 47 professionally trained artists showcased a shower of international talent for almost 12 hours nonstop with a divine, mesmerizing experience of healing Ragas, Indian classical dances – Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak and folk and a heart throbbing special Manipuri performance by our own Vidushi Purnima Desai ji. Their exceptional performances captivated the senses, transporting listeners to realms of bliss and tranquility, captivating the audience with their magnificent performances
FAMOUS VOCALIST KASTURI BANDOPADHYAY ACCOMPANIED BY ANIRBAN CHAKRABORTY ON HARMONIUM AND ANIRBAN R. CHOWDHURY ON TABLA. 
JUGALBANDI BETWEEN SITARIST SUPRATIK SENGUPTA AND SAROD BY SOUMYA CHAKRAVERTY. 
VIDYA, TEJAL, SURESH, CYNTHIA ,FLORA, PURNIMA JI DEVENDRA AND PARESH HONORES FOR THEIR SUPPORT. The event showcased the rich and cultural heritage of Bharat’s exceptional talent, educating on various ragas, dance forms and festivities, through mesmerizing musical and vocal blessings and a divinely spiritual healing experience. The event was supported and blessed by over 250 music lovers, including Community Leaders, Presidents, Supporters and Well-wishers.
Our special Thanks to our supporters, attendees, well-wishers, dedicated volunteers – Tejal Desai, Flora Parekh, Cynthia & Suresh Ketwaroe, Professor Indrajit Saluja, Rohit Pandya, Vidya Patel, Devendra Vora, Paresh Parekh, Amarnath Banarsi and each and everyone of you for making the event an astounding success year over year.
Starting with Morning Ragas, the program was split into three parts. The first part showcased the sublime and inspiring Instrumental Recital by Anirban Chakraborty (Harmonium), Anirban R. Chowdhury (Tabla), Shankh Lahiri (Tabla) and Eric Fraser (Flute) followed by melodious Vocal by Kasturi Bandopadhyay. A special Manipuri Dance Recital by Vidushi Purnima A. Desai, Sanjib Bhattacharya, Jagannath Lairenjam, Jolly Moni Lairenjam & Chaobithoi Lairenjam Debi
VOCALIST SANDIP BHATTACHARJEE ACCOMPANIED BY ANIRBAN ON HARMONIUM AND SANDIP GHOSH ON TABLA. 
MANIPURI DANCE RECITAL BY SANJIB BHATTACHARYA, JOLLY AND CHAOBITHOI. 
BHARATNATYAM DANCE BY STUDENTS OF LAKSHMI KURUP. 
MOHINIATTAM DANCE BY STUDENTS OF CHANDRIKA KURUP. The magic continued to the second part, as the stage lit up with mesmerizing Afternoon Ragas, a special jugalbandi of Pallab Bandopadhyay (Violin) and Shankh Lahiri (Tabla), followed by vocalist Vidushi Kankana Banerjee accompanied by Anirban Chakraborty (Harmonium). Traditionally dressed 23 classically trained dance performers from Chandrika & Lakshmi Kurup Dance Group rocked the stage with truly classical extravaganza combination showcase of Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak and folk, depicting the various festivities of India.
The musical extravaganza part 3 continued with a story telling Kathak dance performance by Pt. Satya Narayana Charka Dance Group. The Evening Ragas included a special Instrumental Recital by Supratik Sengupta (Sitar), Soumya Chakraverty (Sarod), Anirban R.Chowdhury (Tabla), Sandip Ghosh (Tabla), Naren Budhakar (Tabla) & Rohan Mishra (Sarangi). Internationally famed vocalists Ruchira Panda & Sandip Bhattacharjee led the audience through a soothing evening experience. The organization honored the artists in Recognition of their remarkable Talent and Exceptional performance, enriching the World of Hindustani Classical Music and inspiring many.
ROHIT PANDYA JI SPOKE ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF SANGEET MAHOTSAV EVERY YEAR. 
VIDUSHI KANKANA BANERJEE GAVE A SPLENDID PERFORMANCE AS A SENIOR VOCALIST. 
The community is truly blessed with the remarkable contribution of organizations like Sriniketan Foundation, gracing us with sublime music and for being an inspiration to aspiring musicians. Sriniketan foundation has been serving the community tirelessly for years educating our younger generation with Monthly Educational & Cultural Events – “Shyama Shyam Shashtriya Sugam Sangeet Sammelan”, training them for Indian classical music, singing and dancing. The organization also offers various services not limited to – Naturopathy, Homeopathy, Basic Yoga, Mantra Therapy, Music Therapy, Laughing Therapy, Kriya Yog, Ayurveda, Meditation, Reflexology, Reiki Therapy, Listening Therapy For Chaitanya – Jagruti (Awareness & Pure Consciousness) and much more.
For additional information visit www.sriniketanfoundation2015.org.One of the attendees, Mr. Rohit Pandya, who was literally mesmerized by the superb music and dance performances, felt impelled to send to The Indian Panorama his appreciation and comments on the Mahotsav. Here are some excerpts.As the curtain of the grand stage slowly unveiled, the mellifluous notes of a flute, as sweet as honey, began to dance through the air. The melodious tunes, as delicate as a blooming lotus, evoked a sense of tranquility that wrapped the audience in a soothing embrace. The flutist performance, like a gentle zephyr, carried the promise of a day filled with musical magic.
The momentous journey continued as classical dancers, resplendent in vibrant attire, graced the stage with their artistry. Their graceful movements were as exquisite as the petals of a thousand roses, each step echoing the rich traditions of Indian classical dance. Their expressions painted stories of love, devotion, and celebration, captivating the audience’s hearts.
The transition to classical vocal performances was seamless, and the vocalists transported the audience to another realm with their voices that were as ethereal as a monsoon downpour in the desert. Their renditions, passionate and resonant, were nothing short of divine. The words and melodies, like rare jewels, shone brightly in the hearts of the listeners.
DR. KOMAL AND TEJAL APPRECIATED THE MANIPURI DANCE RECITAL BY THEIR MOTHER PURNIMA JI. 
ANIRBAN CHAKRABARTY RECEIVED CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION & MERIT BY THE TOWN OF NORTH HEMSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK, NEW YORK STATE AND RAGINI SRIVASTAVA – TOWN CLERK. SANJIB BHATTACHARYA, KANKANA BANERJEE, LAKSHMI KURUP AND ERIC FRASER RECIVED THE CERTIFICATES AS WELL. 
LIVE KATHAK RECITAL DIRECTED BY PANDIT SATYA NARAYAN CHARKA WITH NAREN BUDHAKAR ON TABLA AND ROHAN MISRA ON SARANGI WITH KATHAK DANCERS POOJA BHARDWAJ AND NISHITHA SOBRIN AND PANDIT CHARKA JI HIMSELF. The stage then welcomed the maestro of the violin, who painted vibrant ragas that were as vibrant as a peacock’s plumage. The notes resonated with depth and emotion, taking the audience on a journey through the landscapes of classical music. The violinist’s skill and precision were as sharp as a katana blade, creating an exquisite tapestry of sound.
The soul-stirring performance continued with the enchanting strains of the sarod, which were as evocative as a sunrise over the Himalayas. The sarod’s timbre, like liquid gold, flowed through the hearts of the listeners, enveloping them in a cocoon of musical ecstasy. The sitar, played with a finesse that was as delicate as a spider’s silk, followed suit. The artist’s nimble fingers plucked the strings, conjuring melodies as intricate as a spider’s web. The sitar’s resonant tones, like the soft caress of moonlight, filled the air with enchantment. Throughout the performances, the tabla and harmonium provided a rhythmic canvas that was as sturdy as the roots of ancient banyan trees. The interplay of beats and chords was a testament to the synchronicity and harmony that permeated the entire day’s program, binding it together like a string of pearls.
And then, as the day turned to night, the grand finale, a celestial performance, unfolded. The stage seemed to transcend earthly boundaries as artists from different disciplines united to create an otherworldly experience. The music and dance, like shooting stars in the night sky, left the audience spellbound. In the midst of this magical day, the heart and soul of the event was the visionary and dedicated Purnima Dasai, the founder and president. Her passion and commitment to preserving and promoting Indian classical arts were as boundless as the ocean. Her leadership, like the North Star, guided this magnificent event to its zenith.
Purnima Dasai’s unwavering dedication, like a lighthouse in the storm, has illuminated the path for countless artists and enthusiasts, ensuring the continued glory of Indian classical arts. Her vision and tireless efforts have been instrumental in weaving this tapestry of musical and visual splendor. As the event came to a close, the audience rose to their feet, their applause a thunderous testament to the day’s sheer brilliance. Purnima Dasai, a true luminary in the world of Indian classical arts, stood at the heart of it all, radiating with grace and poise. Her name will forever be etched in the annals of classical excellence, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
TRIBUTE TO PANDIT VISHNU NARAYAN BHATHKHANDE JI. 
A GREAT VIOLINIST PALLAB BANDOPADHYAY WITH TABLA PLAYER SHANKH LAHIRI JUGALBANDI WAS SUPERB. 
FLORA PAREKH ONE OF THE EMCEES APPRECIATED RADHA KRISHNA MANIPURI DANCE RECITAL. 
JAGANNATH A GREAT MANIPURI DANCER WTH ALL THE ARTISTS WERE RECOGNIZED BY SRINIKETAN FOUNDATION. -
Indian-American teen wins second spot in America’s Young Scientist Challenge
- Says wants to gain experience and advice from a mentor to help change lives with EasyBZ
SAN JOSE (TIP): Indian-American teen Shripriya Kalbhavi won second place at the annual 2023 3M Young Scientist Challenge, a premier science competition for middle school students in the US. Kalbhavi, a ninth grader at Lynbrook High School in California, received a $2,000 prize for developing EasyBZ — a cost-effective micro-needle patch that allows for self-automated drug delivery without pills or needles. Kalbhavi said in a blog post on the 3M Young Scientist Challenge website that she entered the contest because she wanted to help change lives. “Scientific research and innovations have always interested me, and I find the scientists, especially doctors, all around me to be extremely inspiring because they work to help people every day,” Kalbhavi, who wants to become a practicing neurosurgeon, said.
“I want to gain experience and advice from a mentor to help improve people’s lives with my invention, BZ reaction-automated micro-needle patches, by making their medication painless and more affordable,” she added. She also hosts a podcast called ‘Famous Personalities’, and as part of the theme of her show, she does research about women scientists and speaks about their lives, achievements and research.
Apart from Kalbhavi, five other Indian-American teens were among the top 10 finalists and each of them received a $1,000 prize and a $500 gift card.
The first prize of $25,000 with the prestigious title of ‘America’s Top Young Scientist’, went to Heman Bekele from Virginia for his compound-based skin cancer-treating soap.
“For 16 years, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge has exemplified our belief in harnessing the power of people, ideas and science to reimagine what’s possible. The remarkable young innovators of this competition share our determination to help shape a brighter future.” said John Banovetz, 3M executive vice president.
“By asking students to think creatively and apply the power of science to everyday problems, incredible solutions and leaders arise.” Each finalist in the challenge was evaluated on a series of challenges, including a presentation of their completed innovation.
America’s Top Young Scientists have gone on to give TED Talks, file patents, found non-profit organizations, make it to the Forbes 30 Under-30 list, ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange and exhibit at the White House Science Fair.
The young innovators have also been named Time magazine’s first Kid of the Year, featured in The New York Times magazine, Forbes, and Business Insider.
(Source: IANS) -
Indian American scientists Subra Suresh, Ashok Gadgil presented National Medal of Science by Joe Biden
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Two Indian American scientists — Subra Suresh and Ashok Gadgil — were among 19 Americans honored by President Joe Biden for “exemplary achievements in science, technology, and innovation to strengthen our nation’s well-being.”
Biden awarded the National Medal of Science, the nation’s highest scientific honor, to Suresh of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Brown University along with eight other scientists at a White House ceremony on Tuesday.
Gadgil of the University of California, Berkeley, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the nation’s highest award for technological achievement, with nine others.
Suresh was awarded the science medal “for pioneering research across engineering, physical sciences, and life sciences. A transformative educator, he has advanced the study of material science and its application to other disciplines. His commitment to research and collaboration across borders has demonstrated how science can forge understanding and cooperation among people and nations,” the White House stated.
Suresh was the first Asian-born professor to lead any of the five schools at MIT. Born in Mumbai, Suresh received a BTech degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. Later, he received a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.
Gadgil received the technology and innovation medal for “providing life-sustaining resources to communities around the world.. His innovative, inexpensive technologies help meet profound needs, from drinking water to fuel-efficient cookstoves. His work is inspired by a belief in the dignity of all people and in our power to solve the great challenges of our time,” the White House stated. Born in Mumbai, Gadgil graduated in Physics from the University of Mumbai and completed his postgraduate studies at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. He earned an MSc and PhD in physics from the University of California, Berkeley.
“I’ve long said America can be defined by a single word — Possibilities,” Biden told the winners. “The fact that several of today’s honorees immigrated from other countries is proof of the assertion that everything is possible.”
“You know, there will be more technological change in the next 10 years, maybe in the next five years, than in the last 50 years,” he said. “There’s a — in large part to the minds sitting in front of us. And I want America to lead — to lead that change.”
“Because the greatness of a country is measured not only by the size of its economy or the strength of its military,” Biden said. “The strength of the nation is also measured by the boldness of its science, the quality of its research, and the progress it helps bring forth for not only the country but whole the world,” Biden said.
“These trailblazers have harnessed the power of science and technology to tackle challenging problems and deliver innovative solutions for Americans, and for communities around the world,” the White House stated.
“These medalists have made discoveries that enable lifesaving medical treatments, help fight the opioid epidemic, improve food security, advance accessibility, protect our democracy, and much more.” “Their accomplishments advance American leadership in science, technology, and innovation, and their work inspires the next generation of American minds,” it added.
Established by Congress in 1959 and administered by the US National Science Foundation, the National Medal of Science is bestowed on individuals deserving of special recognition for their outstanding contributions in biology, computer sciences, education sciences, engineering, geosciences, mathematical and physical sciences, and social, behavioral, and economic sciences, in service to the Nation. The National Medal of Technology and Innovation recognizes American innovators whose vision, intellect, creativity, and determination have strengthened America’s economy and improved our quality of life.
Established by Congress and administered by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the first Medal of Technology was presented in 1985. -
Indian-origin diplomat nominated by Joe Biden as US ambassador to Indonesia
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Indian-origin diplomat Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir has been appointed by President Joe Biden as US Ambassador to Indonesia. Lakhdhir, who has served the State Department for almost 30 years, is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, and was most recently Executive Secretary of the Department of State, the White House said. Her father, Noor, immigrated to the US from Mumbai to attend the University of California, Berkeley in the 1940s.
A Harvard graduate and an M.S. from the National War College, Lakhdhir had formerly served as an ambassador to Malaysia from 2017 to 2021. Prior to that, Lakhdhir served as US Consul General in Belfast, Northern Ireland from 2009 to 2011.
She joined the Foreign Service in 1991 and has served as Director of the Office of Maritime Southeast Asian Affairs, which includes responsibility for US relations with Indonesia.
Early in her career, she was Deputy Coordinator of the Taiwan Coordination Staff in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs. Her other overseas assignments included China, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia, the statement added.
Lakhdhir grew up in Westport, Connecticut, and was inspired to pursue an international career because of her parents, she said in an interview published in the National Museum of American Diplomacy. She said her “international career began as a child” due to her parents’ rich international background and family trips abroad.
These experiences encouraged Lakhdhir to begin her career overseas as a teacher in China for two years after graduating from Harvard College in 1986. -
Indian-origin Thomas Kurian, Google Cloud CEO, wins top ASEI award
MICHIGAN (TIP): Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, received the American Society of Engineers of Indian Origin’s (ASEI) prestigious Lifetime Achievement award at its 35th National Convention focusing on next-generation engineering innovations in Southfield, Michigan.
ASEI National convention and celebratory awards gala dinner and entertainment event also honored six other outstanding individuals for their contributions to the engineering profession, society, and the community at large, according to a press release.
The annual ASEI awards were presented to the following in different categories:
- ASEI Entrepreneur of the Year: Dheeraj Pandey, Founder & CEO, DevRev;
- ASEI Scientist of the Year: Dr Nina Tandon, CEO, EpiBone;
- ASEI Engineer of the Year- AI: Rama Akkiraju, Vice President, NVIDIA;
- ASEI Engineer of the Year- Transportation & Sustainability: Dr Praveen Vayalamkuzhi, CEO MobilityVision;
- ASEI Service Excellence Award: Surbhi Kaul, Vice President, Juniper Networks; and
Hari B. Bindal ASEI Founder’s Award: Muthu Sivananthan, Energy & Materials Industry Solutions Leader, Dassault Systèmes.
The Corporate Excellence Recognition Program (CERP) was also revived as part of ASEI CorporateConnect initiative and employees nominated by sponsoring organizations Detroit Engineering Products and GHD were recognized.
GMS Registrar honored the original founders of the CERP, Dr Ravi Rout, Jag Kottha and Mahesh Reddy, in addition to their Vice President Anjali Kottha. ASEI President Piyush Malik said, “On behalf of ASEI, I am very pleased to recognize and congratulate each awardee for their dedication, hard work, and exemplary contribution in their respective fields.”
“For the past four decades, ASEI has served the community well in Indo-US technology relations and provided mentoring, networking and learning opportunities for young technologists & engineers through our strategic initiatives. We are now gearing up for our future 40 years!”
The objective of the convention was to provide a forum to promote and share advancements related to the latest cutting-edge innovations and technologies across various engineering disciplines, according to the release.
The convention was attended by over 400 professionals including scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders across the USA. ASEIcon2023 featured keynotes and multiple interactive sessions with prominent business and technology leaders, scientists, media personalities, educators, policymakers, and venture capitalists.
ASEIcon 2023 featured a stellar line-up of speakers. In the opening keynote, Mamatha Chamarthi, Chief Growth Officer at Stellantis, spoke about disruption and networked talent, encouraging attendees to have a bolder planet-wide vision to disrupt oneself as well as their organization. She emphasized “Discover your authentic leadership style and learn to exit your comfort zone” and lauded ASEI on its “School to University to Profession to Planet” vision articulated by Malik. Rophin Paul, CEO of Wipro Pari, Ashwini Balasubramanian of Harley Davidson and Ankur Ganguli of General Motors, were among 30+ CEOs and engineering executives who spoke at the convention.
Apart from talks and panel discussions in parallel tracks covering Automotive, Mobility, Infrastructure and Energy, there was a youth technology exposition (YTE) featuring projects by prize-winning STEM students as well.
A deep-dive on policy decisions for the Mobility Industry by K. Venkatesh Prasad, of CAR was the closing keynote where he stressed that “Innovation today needs research and investments from decades ago.” Noting that the US is investing heavily in Mobility, AI, and Space, Materials, he said it will keep it relevant on the global stage. Shawn Lee of TEDx Detroit energized the awards banquet audience with his talk on DEI, people investment and selfless giving.
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Indian American NASA scientist Aroh Barjatya to lead rocket mission into 2023 solar eclipse
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): An Indian-origin scientist at NASA is helming a mission that aims to launch three rockets during the 2023 annular eclipse on October 14. The mission, known as Atmospheric Perturbations around the Eclipse Path or APEP, is led by Aroh Barjatya, will study how the sudden drop in sunlight affects our upper atmosphere, the space agency has said.
On October 14, people viewing the annular solar eclipse will experience the sun dimming to 10 per cent its normal brightness, leaving only a bright “ring of fire” of sunlight as the moon eclipses the sun.
Some 50 miles up and beyond, the air itself becomes electric. Scientists call this atmospheric layer the ionosphere because it is where the UV component of sunlight can pry electrons away from atoms to form a sea of high-flying ions and electrons.
The sun’s constant energy keeps these mutually attracted particles separated throughout the day. But as the sun dips below the horizon, many recombine into neutral atoms for the night, only to part ways again at sunrise.
During a solar eclipse, the sunlight vanishes and reappears over a small part of the landscape almost at once. In a flash, ionospheric temperature and density drop, then rise again, sending waves rippling through the ionosphere.
“If you think of the ionosphere as a pond with some gentle ripples on it, the eclipse is like a motorboat that suddenly rips through the water,” said Barjatya, a professor of engineering physics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida.
“It creates a wake immediately underneath and behind it, and then the water level momentarily goes up as it rushes back in.”
The APEP team plans to launch three rockets in succession — one about 35 minutes before local peak eclipse, one during peak eclipse, and one 35 minutes after. They will fly just outside the path of annularity, where the moon passes directly in front of the sun.
Each rocket will deploy four small scientific instruments that will measure changes in electric and magnetic fields, density, and temperature. If they are successful, these will be the first simultaneous measurements taken from multiple locations in the ionosphere during a solar eclipse. Barjatya chose sounding rockets to answer the team’s science questions because they can pinpoint and measure specific regions of space with high fidelity. They can also measure changes that happen at different altitudes as the suborbital rocket ascends and falls back to Earth. The APEP rockets will take measurements between 70 to 325 kilometers) above the ground along their trajectory.
In addition, a ground-based observation will collect ionospheric density and neutral wind measurements. A team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Haystack Observatory in Westford, will run their radar to measure ionospheric perturbations farther away from the eclipse path.
Finally, a team of students from Embry-Riddle will deploy high-altitude balloons (reaching 100,000 feet) every 20 minutes to measure weather changes as the eclipse passes by.
The APEP rockets launched in New Mexico will be recovered and then relaunched from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia, on April 8, 2024, when a total solar eclipse will cross the US from Texas to Maine.
(Source: IANS)
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Indian American advocate Sapna Khatri to lead Massachusetts Reproductive Justice Unit
BOSTON (TIP): Indian American abortion rights activist Sapna Khatri has been named to lead Massachusetts’ Reproductive Justice Unit, a new unit established under state Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell.
The Unit will focus on ensuring that Massachusetts is a national leader on reproductive justice by expanding and protecting access to reproductive and gender-affirming care, Campbell announced in Boston on Oct 2.
It would do so by “addressing disparities in maternal health, tackling misinformation and disinformation that prevents access to care, working across state lines to respond to national attacks on reproductive health care, and championing and defending Massachusetts’ strong legal protections for reproductive rights.”
“We must meet the escalating anti-science, extremist attacks on our basic right to bodily autonomy with bold and comprehensive action,” said Campbell. “I am proud to launch the Reproductive Justice Unit and name Sapna as Director. I am confident that, under her leadership, Massachusetts will be a north star in showing just what is possible when people are free to make decisions for themselves about their bodies, lives, families, and futures with dignity and respect.”
“I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to serve as Director of AG Campbell’s Reproductive Justice Unit, a unit whose mission is not only one I care deeply about, but is critical in our fight for reproductive justice nationwide,” said Khatri.
“I look forward to using my experience as a reproductive justice advocate to help AG Campbell lead this fight and collaborate with community organizations, health care providers, and legal experts across the Commonwealth.”
Prior to being named Director of the AG’s Reproductive Justice Unit, Khatri worked extensively in the areas of reproductive justice and privacy.
Most recently, between 2021 and 2023, Khatri worked as a Sears Clinical Teaching Fellow at the University of California Los Angeles, where she launched the school’s inaugural Reproductive Justice Externship Program.
Khatri also led efforts to establish the nation’s first Medical-Legal Partnership at a Planned Parenthood clinic, in partnership with the UCLA Law Center on Reproductive Health, Law, and Policy, the Black Health Initiative at Planned Parenthood Inglewood, and the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles. Preceding her time at UCLA,
Khatri served as a law fellow in the Women and Reproductive Rights Project at the ACLU of Illinois and later as the organization’s Advocacy & Policy Counsel for privacy, technology, and surveillance matters. Sapna is a graduate of Washington University School of Law and the University of Missouri.
The formation of the new unit comes in the face of continued nationwide legal challenges to reproductive health access in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health, which eliminated the federal right to an abortion.
Since the 2022 decision, nearly half of the states in the country have severely restricted or altogether banned access to abortion. States have also sought to ban gender-affirming care and to criminalize providers and parents who facilitate access to it, the announcement noted. These attacks come in the midst of a worsening maternal health crisis and shocking rates of suicidality amongst transgender youth. The Reproductive Justice Unit will work with staff from across the Attorney General’s Office to lead the state and the nation in the fight for reproductive justice by defending against attempts to roll back access to reproductive and gender-affirming care, and championing policies to expand access to full spectrum reproductive and gender-affirming health care in the Commonwealth.
The Unit seeks to center community voices and partner with other abortion protective states to ensure that patients and providers can continue to access and provide full spectrum reproductive health care, including abortion and gender-affirming care, according to a press release.
The Unit will also work to expand the conversation around reproductive justice to include birth justice and to address growing maternal health disparities, especially among Black and brown communities who are more likely to die during or after childbirth.