NEW YORK • WASHINGTON D.C. • CHICAGO • ATLANTA • CALIFORNIA VOL 26, No. 1368 December 25, 2020 50¢ Periodical Postage INCLUSIVE GROWTH Discussions on global growth cannot happen among few countries

NEW DELHI: Asserting that growth patterns must for reformed multilateralism at the UN and other follow a human-centric approach, Prime Minister global forums, calling for representation reflecting Narendra Modi on Monday (21 Dec.) said discus- contemporary realities. sions on global growth cannot happen only among Modi, in his message at the conference via video Lake County a few as the "table must be bigger" and the agenda link, said hostility will never achieve peace and in the celebrates Ram broader. past, humanity took the path of confrontation in- Vedant Patel Janaki Vivah The prime minister's remarks at the 6th Indo-Ja- stead of collaboration. pan Samwad Conference assume significance as Details on page 5 Details on page 17 they come at a time when India has been pushing IND-AM assigned Biden's assistant press secretary US blacklists President top Chinese Donald Trump Details on page 7 chipmaker presented the Legion of Merit

Details on page 12 to Indian PM Minister Tomar's Narendra Modi open letter for his leadership to farmers Biden urged in elevating the US-India to extend work Details on page 9 strategic authorizations partnership. Indian Details on page 10 CONTENTS Ambassador to US Taranjit Bollywood ------30 Classifieds ------32 Singh Sandhu Community Post ------17-25 accepted the Edit Page ------35 medal on behalf Horoscope ------33 This week’s question of PM Modi Immigration Post ------10-11 Do you think China maybe given by US Life Style ------14-15 involved with recent hacking? National Philosophy/Perspective ------34

Last week’s result Security Info/Highlights ------4 Advisor Robert C Real Estate ------28-29 Will Amit Shah be able to sort out farmers' issues? O'Brien. TechBiz Post ------12-13 (ANI Photo) Travel & Hospitality Post ------16 YES 68% NO 32% Wellness Post ------26-27 2 India Post December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 India Post 3 www.indiapost.com 4 India Post December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com

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SAN FRANCISCO & Taapsee's transformation Online dating in India SILICON VALLEY Vidya Sethuraman Bureau Chief For her upcoming 'Rashmi Rocket' actor With the enforced lockdown restrictions Vijay Thapar CPRO & Advertising Taapsee Pannu talked about her body and social distancing norms in place, vir- Kiran Pandey Director, WellnessPost transformation, said she wanted to trans- tual dating has slowly become the new Vinita Thapar Marketing Deepak Chhabra Promotions form her body in a real believable way. 'Favorite' among Indian singles. Ritu Maheshwari Director Promotions 30 14 Sudesh Kumari Correspondent

LOS ANGELES Mrs Shashi Trivedi Bureau Chief Cover Story: Techbiz:

CHICAGO INCLUSIVE GROWTH US blacklists Chinese chipmaker Ramesh Soparawala Resident Editor At the 6th Indo-Japan Conference PM "We will not allow advanced US technol- A Q Siddiqui Correspondent Modi said global growth cannot happen ogy to help build the military of an in- ST. LOUIS only among a few as the "table must be creasingly belligerent adversary,'' Ashwin Patel Correspondent bigger" and the agenda broader. 5 Comm. Secy. Wilbur Ross said. 12 NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY Pinky Kaur Bureau Chief Srirekha N. Chakravarty Correspondent Nikita Japra Correspondent Community: Travel: Sukhvinder Saini Circulation Celebrating Ram Janaki Vivah Munnar BOSTON Gope Gidwani Bureau Chief Fifth day of the ShuklaPaksha is of great This incredibly beautiful hill town is po- importance where all Hindus believe sitioned at a height of 6000ft in the CANADA that Ma Janaki married Lord Ram, the Idukki district of Kerala and is the most Paras Nehra Correspondent Prince of Ayodhya. 17 privileged summer resort. 16 NEW DELHI Lakshay Sharma Web Developer

MUMBAI Immigration: Wellness: Nidhi Soparawala Correspondent Frank Fernandes Correspondent Lawmakers urge Biden China's Covid vaccine

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NEW DELHI: Asserting that growth patterns must follow a human-centric approach, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (21 Dec.) said discussions on global growth cannot happen only among a few as the "table must be bigger" and the agenda broader. The prime minister's remarks at the 6th Indo-Japan Samwad Conference assume significance as they come at a time when India has been pushing for re- formed multilateralism at the UN and other global fo- rums, calling for representation reflecting contempo- rary realities. Modi, in his message at the conference via video link, said hostility will never achieve peace and in the past, humanity took the path of confrontation instead of collaboration. "From Imperialism to the world wars. From the arms race to the space race. We had dialogues but they were aimed at pulling others down. Now, let us rise together," Modi said. Lord Buddha's teachings command the strength to turn the discourse from enmity to empowerment and his teachings also make us large-hearted, Modi said. "They (Buddha's teachings) tell us: learn from the past and work towards a better future. This is the best Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the Indo-Japan Samwad conference, via video conferencing, in New Delhi on December 21 service we can do for our future generations," he said. Noting that this is the first Samwad of a new de- ture as the central pillar of our existence," he said. Ulaanbaatar. cade, which is happening at a critical moment of hu- In his address at the conference, the prime minis- "In this journey, it has remained true to its funda- man history, Modi said, "Our actions today will shape ter also proposed the creation of a library dedicated mental objectives: to encourage dialogue and de- the discourse in the coming times. This decade and to traditional Buddhist literature and scriptures. bate; to highlight our shared values of democracy, beyond will belong to those societies that place a pre- "We will be happy to create such a facility in India humanism, Ahimsa, freedom and tolerance; and, to mium on learning and innovating together." and will provide appropriate resources for it," he carry forward our ancient tradition of spiritual and It will be about nurturing bright young minds who said. scholarly exchanges," Modi said, thanking the Japa- will add value to the humanity in the times to come, The library will collect digital copies of all such nese government for their constant support to he said. Buddhist literature from different countries, he said. 'Samwad'. "About three weeks ago, I was at Sarnath. Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after at- ‘From Imperialism to the world wars. From the arms race to the space race. taining enlightenment. This Jyoti Punj emerged from We had dialogues but they were aimed at pulling others down. Now, let us rise Sarnath spread across the world embracing the val- ues of compassion, nobility and above all, 'Manav together. Lord Buddha's teachings command the strength to turn Kalyan', the good of entire humanity. And gently, the discourse from enmity to empowerment and his teachings peacefully, it changed the course of world history," Modi said. also make us large-hearted’ Modi said It was in Sarnath that Lord Buddha spoke in detail about his ideal of Dhamma which for him was more than prayer and rituals, the prime minister noted. Learning should be such that it furthers innovation, It will aim to translate them, and make them freely "At the center of Dhamma are humans, and their which is the cornerstone to human empowerment, he said. available for all monks and scholars of Buddhism, relation with fellow humans. Thus, it is most important Underlining that societies that are open minded, Modi added. to be a positive force in the lives of others. Samwad democratic and transparent are better suited to inno- "The library will not only be a depository of litera- should be one that will spread this spirit of positivity, vate, Modi said now is the time, more than ever be- ture. It will also be a platform for research and dia- unity and compassion across our planet. That too at a fore, to change the paradigm on what we see as logue - a true Samwad between human beings, be- time when we need it the most," he said. growth. tween societies, and between humans and nature," The essence of Samwad remains togetherness, he "Discussions on global growth cannot happen only he said. said, noting that Samwad brings out the best in us. between a few. The table must be bigger. The agenda Its research mandate will also include examining "This is the time to draw upon our ancient values must be broader. Growth patterns must follow a hu- how Buddha's message can guide our modern world and prepare for the times to come. We must keep man-centric approach. And, be in harmony with our against contemporary challenges, Modi said. humanism at the core of our policies. We must make surroundings," he said. The prime minister noted that "we began this se- harmonious co-existence with nature as the central Modi also called for keeping humanism at the core ries of conferences with former Prime Minister pillar of our existence. Samwad, a dialogue with our- of policies. Shinzo Abe" and since then, the 'Samwad' has trav- selves, with fellow human beings, and with nature "We must make harmonious co-existence with na- elled from New Delhi to Tokyo, from Yangon to can light our way on this path," he said. PTI 6 India Post Top Stories December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com Indian American appointed Biden's assistant press secretary

NEW YORK: US President-elect Joe Biden, whose nominations to key posts Biden has appointed Vedant Patel, a have been dominated by those who had former communications aide to House served in the administrations of Presi- of Representatives member Pramila dents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama or Jayapal, as his assistant press secretary. were close to them, has been feeling the His appointment makes him one of tugs of the various other factions of the the three Indian Americans nominated party for jobs in his administration when to important positions by Biden. The he takes over on January 20. others are Neera Tanden, who will be the director of the Office of Management and Budget, and Vivek Murthy, the Surgeon General, both of whom will have to be London could be under lockdown confirmed in their positions by the Senate, unlike in the for months: UK Health Secy case of Patel. Patel has held a string of LONDON: UK Health Secretary Matt in government of course have a re- communications positions in Hancock has warned that London could sponsibility, but so does every single the Democratic Party do- be under a lockdown for months, as it person. main, most recently as a re- will be "very difficult" to keep a highly "The plea that I have is that people gional communications di- infectious mutant strain of the novel will play their part, because it is only rector for the campaign of coronavirus under control until vaccina- by acting -- all of us -- that we can get Biden and Kamala Harris, tions are rolled out. this under control," he added. Vedant Patel moving up from the Biden His remarks came just hours after the On December 19, Prime Minister primary campaign where he headed up Patel's nomination is a gesture to the new Tier Four restrictions came into Boris Johnson effectively cancelled communications for Nevada and west- left; Jayapal is a leader of the Congres- force in the British capital and parts of Christmas for more than 16 million ern states. sional Progressive Caucus. southeast England, reports Xinhua people in London, south-eastern and He was born in India and grew up Other nominations by Biden and Har- news agency. eastern England as the region went California, graduating from the Univer- ris include Atul Gawande and Celine The new tighter restrictions will be into a new two-week lockdown on sity of California-Riverside. Gounder to the COVID-19 task force, reviewed on December 30. Sunday 20 December midnight. Patel has also been the western re- Mala Adiga to be the policy director for Hancock however indicated that it was Addressing a virtual briefing, gional press secretary for the Demo- Jill Biden, who will become the First unlikely they would be relaxed at that Johnson said that the previous plan to cratic National Committee and commu- Lady, and Maju Varghese to be the ex- point."It is going to be very difficult to allow up to three households to meet nication director for Jayapal and Mike ecutive director of their inauguration - keep it under control until we have the during five days around Christmas will Honda, the California representative the swearing-in ceremony and the fes- vaccine rolled out," he told Sky News. have to be scrapped due to the discov- who lost to Ro Khanna. tivities around it. IANS "We know with this new variant you ery of the mutant strain. An esti- ‘All of the different measures we have in place, mated 16.4 million people People of Bengal yearning for change, want we need more of them to control the spread living in the of the new variant than we did to control new Tier Four to get rid of Bangladeshi infiltration: Shah the spread of the old variant’ areas, which BOLPUR (WB): People of West Ben- "I have attended and organized include Lon- gal are yearning for change as they several roadshows in my life but have don and much want to get rid of political violence, never seen one like this. This can catch it more easily from a small of the surrounding region, will have to corruption, extortion and roadshow is a reflection of people's amount of the virus being present. stay at home for a fortnight. Bangladeshi infiltration, anger against the "All of the different measures we They will be barred from socializing Union Home Minister Mamata Banerjee gov- have in place, we need more of them with more than one person even out- Amit Shah has said, at- ernment. This crowd re- to control the spread of the new vari- doors, meaning no Christmas gather- tacking the Mamata flects people's faith in ant than we did to control the spread ings of entire families, while shops, lei- Banerjee government. the agenda of develop- of the old variant. sure facilities, gyms and hairdressers Addressing people ment of Narendra Modi "That is the fundamental problem," will be closed. during a roadshow in Ji," Shah told the massive the Health Secretary added. England was previously under a this town associated gathering at the Hancock also criticized people who three-tier system. with Bengali cultural and roadshow. fled London before the new Tier Four London and parts of Essex and literary icon He said the yearning lockdown came into force as "totally ir- Hertfordshire had just moved into Tier Rabindranath Tagore, Amit Shah was not about changing a responsible". Three on December 16 while some Shah vowed to restore political leader but "get- "I think those scenes were totally ir- other areas in east and southeast of En- the state to its old glory when it was ting rid of corruption, political vio- responsible," Hancock said while gland entered Tier Three from Decem- called "sonar Bangla" (Bengal of gold) lence, extortion and Bangladeshi infil- speaking to the BBC later in the day. ber 19 following a rapid rise in infec- if the BJP is voted to power. tration". PTI "We have all got a responsibility. We tions in the area. IANS December 25, 2020 Top Stories India Post 7 www.indiapost.com Quad would be detrimental to inclusive dialogue: Russia

NEW DELHI: Russia has supported not have any problem with Prime Min- India's vision for the Indo-Pacific but at ister Narendra Modi's Indo-Pacific the same time criticized the Quadrilat- Ocean's Initiative (IPOI) while Deputy eral coalition or Quad, saying it would Chief of the Russian mission Roman be detrimental to inclusive dialogue for Babushkin said his country supports In- ensuring peace and stability in the re- dian vision for the region. gion. At the East Asia Summit in Bangkok Russian Ambassador Nikolay last year, Modi proposed setting up of Kudashev, replying to a question at a the IPOI to conserve and sustainably media briefing on China's growing bel- use the maritime domain and to make ligerence in the Indo-Pacific, said Mos- meaningful efforts to create a safe and cow would welcome enhanced dia- secure maritime domain. logue between New Delhi and Beijing "We are facing some attempts by and even wished that relations be- some countries to create containment tween the two sides reach the level of and alienation in the Indo-Pacific region Indo-Russia ties. which could threaten and jeopardize "We (India and Russia) are special basic principles for regional coopera- privileged and trusted strategic part- tion, for example ASEAN centrality and ners. I do really dream and I really wish "We believe that this is the key to fu- ter Sergey Lavrov accused the Western ASEAN unity...Quad would be detrimen- your relationship with China reaches ture progress of your ties with the powers of pursuing an "aggressive and tal to the inclusive dialogue in the re- the same level. In our capacity as a People's Republic of China and for re- devious" policy to engage New Delhi in gion," Babushkin said. friend to both India and China, we will gional stability and security," he said. "anti-China games" by promoting Indo- The 10-nation Association of South- welcome enhanced dialogue between Kudashev's comments came nearly Pacific strategies. east Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a major Beijing and New Delhi," he said. two weeks after Russian Foreign Minis- The Russian envoy said Moscow does stakeholder in the Indo-Pacific region. The Quad, comprising the US, India, Japan and Australia, is aimed at ensur- ing a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pa- Super Hornet fighter jet performs ski-jump cific. China has increasingly considered the Quad as a mechanism to contain it launch in US, Indian officials witness: Boeing in the maritime domain. Kudashev said Russia was offering a NEW DELHI: Leading aerospace com- (Russia), F-35B and F-35C (Lockheed Martin, The trials were held at a US naval air "unifying agenda" for the Indo-Pacific pany Boeing has said its F/A-18 Super US) and Gripen (Saab, Sweden). station at Patuxent River in Maryland that could bring together the Russian Hornet fighter jet has successfully per- "The conclusion of the successful ski- and they showed that the Super Hornet vision, the Chinese vision and the Indian formed a ski-jump launch, which is take jump trial presents a key milestone in would do well with the Indian Navy's vision for the region. off from a short distance upward- the validation process of carrier com- Short Takeoff but Arrested Recovery "Unlike this approach (Quad), Russia curved ramp, demonstrating the patibility of F/A-18 Super Hornet," said (STOBAR) system, the aircraft manufac- calls for a broad regional dialogue and plane's suitability for the Indian Navy's Kanaglekar, Head India Fighters Sales, turer said, adding that the trials vali- unified agenda based on equality and aircraft carriers. Boeing Defense, Space and Security. dated its earlier simulation studies. respect for all countries for inclusive "Officials from the Indian Embassy in "We understand that the aircraft has Kanaglekar said at the press briefing: and undivided regional security," Washington DC witnessed the test," to maneuver and it has to fit. From that "The multi role frontline US fighter jet's Babushkin said in the joint briefing. said Ankur Kanaglekar, an official of the regard, we have a solution and it is safe latest variant Block III, which is on offer, He said Russia was looking forward will provide several unique advantages to continuing consultations with India to the Indian Navy. First, our offer of two- on the issue, noting that his country is seater and single-seater variants, both the "most sincere well wisher" of India of which are carrier compatible, will al- in its growing regional and global pro- low the Indian Navy to execute missions file. from the carrier that benefits from hav- In his comments, Kudashev also re- ing a second crew." ferred to recent visits of Defense Minis- Second, Super Hornet can act as a ter Rajnath Singh and External Affairs lynchpin of the naval aviation collabora- Minister S Jaishankar to Moscow, add- tion between the US Navy and the In- ing they had "profound negotiations" dian Navy that will improve with their Chinese counterparts there. interoperability between the two "It was very significant in the context navies, he said. Third, it will interface of constructive engagement of both aircraft manufacturer, at a virtual press and it takes care of the Indian Navy's with P-8I aircraft and other assets of US sides to maintain peace and tranquility briefing. requirements of fully operating the air- origin to act as a force multiplier for the at the Line of Actual Control," he said. In 2018, the Indian Navy kick-started craft on the carrier," he stated. Indian Navy, he mentioned. Singh and Jaishankar visited Moscow the process to procure 57 multi-role Currently, the Indian navy has only As part of Boeing's proposed By India, in September to attend separate meet- combat aircraft for its carriers, which one aircraft carrier -- the INS for India sustainment program, Block III ings of the Shanghai Cooperation Orga- use the ski-jump take off mechanism. Vikramaditya -- which is a Russian origin Super Hornet aircraft can be serviced in nization (SCO) during which they held At present, six planes are compatible for ship. India's first indigenous carrier INS partnership with the Indian Navy as well meetings with their Chinese counter- the aircraft carrier -- Rafale (Dassault, France), Vikrant is likely to be inducted into the as India and U.S. based partners through- parts on the eastern Ladakh border F/A-18 Super Hornet (Boeing, US), MIG-29K Indian Navy by 2022. out the lifecycle of the aircraft. PTI standoff. PTI 8 India Post Top Stories December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com LA moves to ration healthcare if COVID-19 hospital crisis worsens

LOS ANGELES: As cases continue to enough trained staff for the number of spike in the United States that is result- patients who need care. We have ing in hospitals reaching full capacity, brought in new staff, retrained and re- intensive care units in Southern deployed staff from other areas of the California's medical system is not being system, and have requested additional able to provide critical medical care to resources from the state," Ghaly said people. adding "But these measures are not an- Many hospitals are preparing for the ticipated to be enough to meet the possibility of rationing care in the com- continuously escalating number of pa- ing weeks as the number of patients tients that are presenting across the exceeds their staffs' abilities to care for county for care." them, wherein the guidelines call for a Across the nation, it has already be- shift in mindset that is unfamiliar to come harder to get admitted to the many medical providers, Los Angeles hospital with COVID-19 symptoms to- Times reported. The overflow of pa- day than it was a couple of months ago, tients in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) and Dr Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, UC San other critical wards keep the patients Francisco chair of the department of on ambulances for as long as eight epidemiology and biostatistics said. hours until space is available. "When hospitals start to get full ... we According to Los Angeles Times, sible. the four hospitals run by Los Angeles subtly change our thresholds for admit- there is hope for the arrival of an army "Some compromise of the standard County. ting someone to the hospital," Bibbins- of additional medical professionals who of care is unavoidable; it is not that an "In an email that the guidelines were Domingo said. can greatly expand intensive care unit entity, system, or locale chooses to limit not in place as of Friday night (18 Dec.) but "So maybe last month, we might say, availability through the end of the year. resources, it is that the resources are that they were essential to develop given 'Wow, you're not getting enough oxy- The goal during the ongoing crisis is clearly not available to provide care in a the surge has arrived and "the worst is yet gen. Let's admit you to the hospital be- to save people as much as possible, pa- regular manner," Los Angeles Times to come," The Los Angeles Times quoted cause we want to be more cautious.' tients with less likely to survive will not quoted a document obtained by the Dr Christina Ghaly, LA County Health Ser- And when a hospital is full, that is a time receive the same level of care, which newspaper that highlights how to allo- vices Director as saying. when we might ... say, 'Well, why don't others will get. Doctors will strategize cate resources in a crisis situation was "We have enough beds, supplies, and we wait another day and see how you to keep people save as many as pos- recently circulated among doctors at equipment for now, but we don't have do?" Bibbins-Domingo added. ANI

Imran Khan claims Pak Army 'working under' him, is defender of democracy ATEET SHARMA NEW DELHI: The deepening divide ing Khan into power, creating "two gov- brought him into power? I hold you re- Thus it comes as no surprise to see between the Pakistani military Gener- ernments" and a "state above the state". sponsible for all the mess you have cre- the former cricketer-turned politician als and the top politicians of the coun- "General Qamar Javed Bajwa, you ated," Sharif had said while targeting coming out to bat for his bosses sit- try has been acknowledged by Imran packed up our government which was Bajwa during the first rally of the 11- ting in Rawalpindi's General Head- Khan, himself dubbed as a "puppet" working well and put the nation and the party opposition alliance in Gujranwala. quarters (GHQ). Khan believes that Prime Minister by the opposition. country at the alter of your wishes. This The three-time Prime Minister has the opposition is pressurizing the Khan, in an interview to a local TV Army to remove his democratically channel said that there is a "lot of an- elected government by constantly ger" within the Pakistani Army over referring to him as a 'puppet' who is the verbal attacks launched against taking orders from the GHQ. the top military leadership, particu- "I praise General Bajwa today. To at- larly by former premier Nawaz Sharif tack an army chief in this manner; a from the Pakistan Democratic Move- reaction comes from the army.[But] ment (PDM) platform, but Chief of Gen Bajwa is an uncomplicated man. Army Staff Qamar Javed Bajwa is put- There is composure in him that is why ting up with the tirades "for the sake he is tolerating this. There would be a of democracy", big reaction if somebody else was Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz leading the army. There is a lot of an- (PML-N) supremo Sharif has repeatedly, Imran Khan and Qamar Javed Bajwa ger within the army ranks, I know he while addressing the PDM rallies is all your doing. Now there is a state maintained that Bajwa, along with ISI is tolerating this because he believes through a video link from London, ac- above the state, which is the root of all head Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, rigged the in democracy," Khan was quoted as cused the Pakistan's security establish- problems. Should I blame Imran Khan 2018 general elections to "impose the in- saying during the TV interview by ment of orchestrating his ouster, bring- for this catastrophe or the people who competent Imran Khan" on the nation. Pakistan's leading daily, Dawn. IANS December 25, 2020 Top Stories India Post 9 www.indiapost.com Minister of Agriculture Tomar's open letter to farmers

India Post News Service NEW DELHI: In an open letter addressed to farmers, Union Agriculture Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar sought to offer clarification on some of the mis-con- ceptions regarding the newly enacted farm laws in India. The letter written in Hindi and directly ad- dressed to farmers underlined that the new laws are solely intended to increase income and to bring pros- perity to farmers. Following are the main points highlighted in his let- ter offering clarification to various myths concerning the law: Myth: The MSP system is ending. Truth: The MSP system in operation and will be op- erational. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Narendra Singh Tomar Myth: APMCmandis are being closed. Truth: APMCmandis will be continued. This law will Myth: Farmers will not be paid. cades. It started in the year 2000 with the Shankarlal not be applicable on APMCmandis. Truth: Farmers have to be paid within the stipulated Guru Committee. Thereafter, the Model APMC Act in Myth: Farmers' land is in danger. time frame, otherwise legal action will be taken and 2003, APMC Rules in 2007, Committee of Chief Minis- Truth: Agreement will be only for crop, not for land. penalty will be imposed. ters of Haryana, Punjab, Bihar and West Bengal in 2010 There will be no agreement for any transfer of land Myth: Farmers cannot withdraw from the contracts. and approved by Agriculture Ministers of 10 states in including sale, lease and mortgage. Truth: Farmers can withdraw from the contract at 2013, Model APMC Act in 2013 and finally approved Myth: Contractors can acquire land of the farmer any time without any penalty. by Parliament in 2020. against any due. Myth: Contract farming has never been tried be- The letter ends with assurances on Government's Truth: Whatever be the situation, the land of the fore. readiness to give written assurance about MSP; allow- farmers is safe. Truth: Many states have approved contract farm- ing farmers'to go to court to resolve any type of dis- Myth: There is no price guarantee for farmers in the ing. Many states even have contract farming laws. pute; not allowing contracts to make any permanent case of contract farming. Myth: There is no consultation or discussion regard- changes to farm lands or to avail any loans; and allow- Truth: The procurement price of agricultural pro- ing these laws. ing State Governments to tax private markets outside duce will be mentioned in the farming agreement. Truth:There have been discussions for two de- APMC. Cabinet Committee approves of three major tasks

India Post News Service other processing costs and costs of international and gion through strengthening of Intra - State Transmis- NEW DELHI: The Cabinet Committee on Economic internal transport and freight charges on export of sion and Distribution systems. Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi upto 60 LMT of sugar limited to Maximum Admissible The scheme is being implemented through has approved assistance of about Rs. 3,500 crore for Export Quota (MAEQ) allocated to sugar mills for sugar POWERGRID, a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under sugarcane farmers (Ganna Kisan); Auction of spectrum season 2020-21. Ministry of Power in association with six beneficiary and Revised Cost estimate for the Northeast region Similarly,a proposal of the Department of Telecom- North Eastern States namely, Assam, Manipur, power improvement system. munications to conduct spectrum auction through Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura and is tar- Currently, there are close to five crore sugarcane which spectrum will be assigned to the successful bid- geted to be commissioned by December 2021. After farmers (Ganna Kisan) and their dependents in India. ders for providing commercial mobile services. commissioning, the project will be owned and main- In addition to this, there are about five lakh workers The auction will be for spectrum in 700 MHz, 800 tained by the respective North Eastern State Utilities. employed in the sugar mills and ancillary activities; MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz and The main objective of the project is Government and their livelihood depends on the sugar industry. 2500 MHz frequency bands. Spectrum will be offered commitment for the total economic development of Farmers sell their sugarcane to the sugar mills, for assignment for validity period of 20 years. A total of North Eastern Region and to strengthen the Intra- however the farmers are not getting their dues from 2251.25 MHz is being offered with total valuation of Rs. State Transmission & Distribution Infrastructure in the the sugar mill owners as they have surplus sugar 3,92,332.70 crore (at reserve price). North East Region. stock. To address this concern, the Government is fa- By winning right to use spectrum through the auc- Implementation of this scheme will create a reli- cilitating the evacuation of surplus sugar stock. Gov- tion, incumbent telecom service providers will be able able power grid and improve NER States' connectiv- ernment will incur about Rs. 3,500 crore for this pur- to augment their network capacity whereas new play- ity to the upcoming load centers, and thus extend pose, and this assistance would be directly credited ers will be able to start their services. the benefits of the grid connected power to all cat- into farmers' accounts on behalf of sugar mills against It is relevant that the Telecom Sector today is a key egories of consumersof beneficiaries in North East- cane price dues and subsequent balance, if any, infrastructure provider with strong linkages with eco- ern Region. would be credited to mill's account. nomic growth, direct and indirect employment genera- Implementing agencies are hiring a considerable This decision will benefit the five crore sugarcane tion and expansion of Digital India. number of local manpower during their construction farmers and their dependents, as well as the five lakh The Cabinet Committee has also approved the Re- works, generating a lot of employment for skilled and workers employed in the sugar mills and related an- vised Cost Estimate (RCE) of North Eastern Region unskilled manpower of North-Eastern Region. cillary activities. Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP) at an All three of the above decisions of the Cabinet are This subsidy aims at covering expenses on mar- estimated cost of Rs. 6,700 crore. This is a major step expected to have a salutary impact on all aspects of keting costs including handling, upgrading and towards economic development of North Eastern Re- development urgently required by the nation. In Brief It is normally issued to those who India, UK to set up have already started joint task force for the process of seeking mutual recognition Immigration employment-based NEW DELHI: India and the UK lawful permanent have agreed to set up a joint task force consisting of desig- resident status nated higher education orga- 10 India Post www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 nizations from both the coun- tries to work towards mutual recognition of academic quali- fications, Union Education Min- US lawmakers urge Biden to extend ister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' said. A decision in this regard was taken in a bilateral meet- work authorizations of spouses ing between Nishank and UK Foreign Secretary Dominic WASHINGTON: A group of 60 US House of Representatives women are losing and will This rule presented an im- Raab here 16 December. US lawmakers have urged wrote to Biden in a letter on continue to lose their jobs un- portant step towards rectify- "India and the United King- President-elect Joe Biden to December 16. til this is put right, disrupting ing gender disparities in our dom have agreed to set up a revoke a Trump administra- Biden, a Democrat, is the lives of their families and immigration system as around joint task force consisting of tion policy and extend the va- scheduled to be inaugurated the functioning of employers 95 per cent of H-4 visa hold- designated higher education lidity of work authorization as the 46th US President on in our districts, the letter said. ers who have secured work organizations from both the documents for H4 visa hold- authorization are women, they countries to work towards mu- ers, who are spouses of those wrote. tual recognition of academic possessing H-1B visas, with These women on H-4 visas qualifications. This will support majority being highly-skilled work in a variety of fields India's agenda for internation- Indian women. like essential healthcare alization of higher education. An H-4 visa is issued by the workers, including in re- "The agreement to work to- US Citizenship and Immigra- search and development wards mutual recognition of tion Services (USCIS) to imme- roles at pharmaceutical academic qualifications aligns diate family members (spouse companies; these women with the vision of Prime Minis- and children under 21 years of play tremendously impor- ter Narendra Modi for creating age) of the H-1B visa holders, tant roles as we continue to a globally mobile workforce most of whom are Indian IT battle the COVID-19 pan- and internationalization of In- professionals. demic, the letter said. dian higher education, as pro- It is normally issued to We are confident that your posed in the National Educa- those who have already incoming Secretary of the De- tion Policy (NEP) 2020 rolled started the process of seeking partment of Homeland Secu- out in July this year," Nishank employment-based lawful January 20. Among signatories to the rity will rectify the systemic said. permanent resident status. In 2015 the Department of letter are Indian-American processing issues that have Both sides expressed hope We respectfully request Homeland Security (DHS) is- congressmen Dr Ami Bera, Ro been created by the Trump and confidence that they that the Department of sued a rule allowing certain Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi Administration, the lawmakers would further enhance mutual Homeland Security publish a H4 dependent spouses of H- and Pramila Jayapal. Other key wrote. engagement in the field of Federal Register notice on 1B visa holders to legally seek signatories are congress- As of December 2017, education, research and inno- day one of your administra- employment in the US, the let- women Bonnie Watson USCIS had approved 1,26,853 vation, leading to deeper and tion that would extend the ter said. Coleman, Rashida Talib, Bar- applications for employment stronger bilateral relations. PTI validity period of all expired This rule presented an im- bara Lee and Judy Chu. authorization for H-4 visa H4 EADs, the members of the portant step towards rectify- In the letter to Biden, the holders. According to a 2018 ing gender disparities in our immigration system, as An H-4 visa is issued by the US Citizenship and PRADEEP ROY-SINGH around 95 per cent of H4 visa holders who have secured Immigration Services (USCIS) to immediate B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. work authorizations are family members (spouse and children under 21 Attorney-at-Law women, it added. Former Assistant State’s Attorney Soon after coming to years of age) of the H-1B visa holders, most of power, the Republican Trump whom are Indian IT professionals 1 Civil & Criminal Litigation administration informed a US 1 Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI court that it plans to rescind 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc. such a rule. lawmakers said that once an report by Congressional Re- 1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties Before the rule was H-1B holder is sponsored for search Service (CRS), 93 per granted, many women on H4 employment-based lawful cent of approved applications http://www.proy-singh.com visas described depression permanent resident (LPR) sta- for H-4 employment authori- and isolation in moving to a tus (otherwise known as a zation were issued to indi- 2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, new country and not being al- Green Card), his or her H-4 viduals born in India, and five Chicago, IL 60659 Tel: 773-381-1820 lowed to work outside of the visa-holding spouse may ap- per cent were issued to indi- home. Unfortunately, these ply for work authorization. viduals born in China. PTI December 25, 2020 Immigration Post India Post 11 www.indiapost.com

Five Afghans held for residing in Bihar with forged documents

KATIHAR: Police seized Rs 5 lakh cash, docu- ments relating to transactions worth over Rs one crore, fake passports, Aadhaar and voter ID cards and other documents from five Afghan nationals who were arrested from Katihar district, an official of the force said Wednesday 16 December. The five Afghan nationals, who were staying in Katihar on the basis of forged documents, were arrested,Katihar superintendent of police Vikas Kumar said. The five were staying in a rented house in Choudhary Mohalla locality of Katihar district for several years, he said. Make or break moment for Indians in US Green The police had raided their residence based on suspicion and seized fake documents like the Card queue as stimulus bill nears closure Aadhar cards, driving licenses, voter ID cards, PAN NIKHILA NATARAJAN cards, ATM cards and other documents, he said. When the police interrogated the five men about NEW YORK: It's a make or break moment for Indians incredibly hard to get an immigration bill passed their nationality, they claimed that they are Indians stuck in decades-long lines for US permanent resi- through Congress," says Anirban Das, who leads Skilled and produced forged documents to prove it. dency. Congressional negotiators are on the cusp of Immigrants in America (SIIA), a non profit. "This bill sealing a long delayed Covid-19 relief package and passed the House with almost 85% votes and the Senate within it could be tucked away a move to "shuffle the by Unanimous Consent. When was the last time an immi- decks of the Titanic" in how 'green cards' are awarded gration bill passed the Senate by UC? That is a tremen- to legal immigrants. dous achievement and a testament to years of advocacy. The clock is ticking. "If this bill were to get passed, Hopefully, they can amend the China provision and get it it should get passed before Congress adjourns. Oth- passed. Or else, we simply try again come January." erwise, it has to be reintroduced in the next Congress. The "China provision" that Das refers to is a carve So if it doesn't get attached to a larger spending bill out in the recently passed Senate version (S. 386)of in the House, it's gone," explains immigration attor- the bill. A There, a Republican Senator inserted two ney Cyrus Mehta. measures backed by the White House. The first would The final round of haggling is already a heavy lift. impose a new cap for the next decade on the overall Two bills that have cleared the House (H.R.1044) and number of immigrants on H-1B visas who can receive Senate (S. 386) need green cards. The sec- While three of them were found to have valid to be blended and ond could severely ‘If this bill were to get passed, it should get passports, two had no papers to show, the SP said. slipped into the om- restrict immigration They were found to have procured documents nibus funding bill passed before Congress adjourns. Otherwise, from China by barring like birth certificates, residential certificates from (before Congress ad- would-be Chinese it has to be reintroduced in the next Kishanganj and Kolkata to prove their nationality, journs for the year) immigrants with ties the SP said. to lift the existing Congress. So if it doesn't get attached to a to the Chinese Com- The house owner had allegedly helped them to per-country cap on munist Party or the larger spending bill in the House, it's gone’ procure the fake documents, the SP said. the number of em- Chinese military from A total of seven persons have been named in ployment based per- qualifying for visas or the FIR.They are the five Afghans, the house owner manent-residency permits issued to legal immigrants. green cards. Attorney Mehta calls this "problematic." and another person.The two other than the Af- The overall pie does not get bigger, though. At the "The bill is also very controversial because it doesn't ghans are on the run, the SP said. same time, legal Indian immigrants have never been increase the number of visas, which would be ideal, An FIR had been lodged under various sections closer to smashing through what some of them de- we would want an increment. But what it does is it of the IPC, the Money Laundering and Foreign Im- scribe as "forever" wait times for green cards. shuffles the deck of the Titanic. And it does create fair- migration Acts, he said adding probe agencies in- Current US. rules limit any one country to 7 per cent of ness so everybody will now have to wait and Indians, cluding the CID, special branch, ATS, local police all employment-based green cards. Indians make up even though they have to wait won't have to wait for a are investigating the case. more than 600,000 of those whose paperwork is ap- lifetime or more than a lifetime," Mehta told IANS. As per the preliminary probe all of them were proved but are waiting. The US State Department Information trickling out of the Congress nego- involved in lending money on interest, the SP awards about 140,000 such Green Cards a year but does tiations indicate the deal does not include every- added. PTI not have caps on how many applications get approved thing that either side wants, which is why it may each year - creating a demand supply asymmetry that get done. It's still not clear what this means for the puts millions of legal immigrants on a perpetual waitlist. immigration piece of the pie. That's still unraveling. For foreign workers who have turned their personal Around 2 pm EST, headline items that are report- NEWS journeys into advocacy missions, it's a big moment, edly baked into the cake are stimulus checks in the on your desktop and they sense its weight. "Congress has not passed a $600-$700 range, unemployment aid, and money major immigration bill in 30 years. So, we know it is for small businesses. IANS www.indiapost.com Tech News 'Why India' to 'Why Not India': Modi on change his reforms have brought Agri reforms have NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (19 started benefiting Dec.), hard sold his government's reforms spanning from manu- farmers: PM facturing to taxation to labor, saying they have changed the TechBiz world perception about the country from 'why India' to 'why not India' and went on to quote record foreign investment during NEW DELHI: As farmer pro- the pandemic as a testimony to that. tests against new farm laws Speaking at industry association Assocham's Foundation Week entered the 24th day, Prime event, Modi also said agriculture reforms brought by his govern- Minister Narendra Modi said 12 India Post www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 ment six months back have started benefiting farmers. PTI reforms brought by his gov- ernment six months ago have started benefiting farmers. Speaking at an Assocham con- US blacklists top Chinese chipmaker, vention, Modi highlighted reforms spanning from the manufacturing sector to labor to say India has alleging military ties during the last six years emerged as the world's preferred destina- WASHINGTON: The Trump China Sea. tion for investment. administration blacklisted But SMIC is the most high- Record foreign direct in- China's top chipmaker Friday profile target.The move means vestment (FDI) and foreign (18 Dec.), limiting the Semicon- that US companies will need to portfolio investment (FPI) dur- ductor Manufacturing Interna- get a license to sell sophisti- ing the pandemic is a testi- tional Corp's (SMIC) access to cated technology to SMIC. mony to the faith that the advanced US technology be- Technology that helps with world now has in India, he said. cause of its alleged ties to the the production of the most-ad- "Agriculture reforms initi- Chinese military. vanced chips -- those 10 nanom- ated six months back have We will not allow advanced US eters or smaller -- face the pre- started benefitting farmers," technology to help build the mili- sumption of denial,'' Commerce he said without elaborating. tary of an increasingly belligerent said. Other items will be as- Hundreds of farmers from adversary,'' Commerce Secretary sessed on a case-by-case basis. states like Punjab and Haryana Wilbur Ross said in a statement The decision comes barely a have blocked some of the explaining the decision to put month before President-elect highways leading to Delhi for SMIC on the US government's so- Joe Biden takes office. more than three weeks now called Entity List. A senior Commerce Depart- against the new farm laws Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross SMIC has previously said it ment official, briefing report- which they fear will prompt has no ties to the Chinese gov- for such things as allegedly dissent, being involved in the ers on condition of anonymity, the government to stop mak- ernment. supporting the Chinese mili- theft of trade secrets and help- said the move had not been ing direct crop purchases at Commerce is putting more tary, assisting the Chinese ing Beijing's aggressive efforts coordinated with the Biden minimum state-set prices, than 60 other firms on the list government's crackdown on to claim territory in the South transition team. AP called minimum support price (MSP). PTI Our investment plans in India on track, Indian economy Pine Labs raises fresh has strength to bounce back: Saudi Arabia funding,valuation exceeds $2 billion NEW DELHI: Saudi Arabia, tries," Saudi Ambassador to In- terrorism as key elements of other economies in the re- the world's largest oil ex- dia Dr Saud bin Mohammed Al the partnership in defense and gion as well. porter, stated its investment Sati told PTI in an interview. security sphere. "The economic relief package NEW DELHI: Merchant com- plans in India are on track, Stating that Saudi Arabia Al Sati complimented India's provided by India for its most merce platform Pine Labs an- noting that the Indian prominent sectors is commend- nounced it has raised a fresh economy has the strength to able. As the fifth-largest global round of funding from Lone recover from the adverse im- economy and the largest Pine Capital, taking its valua- pact of the coronavirus crisis. economy in South Asia, the Indian tion at over $2 billion. In February last year, Saudi economy has the impetus to re- The company, however, did Crown Prince Mohammed cover from the impact of the on- not disclose the amount of bin Salman announced that going pandemic," he said. fresh investment. Saudi Arabia would invest Without commenting on Lone Pine's investment fol- over USD 100 billion in India Army Chief Gen MM lows the strategic investment in petrochemicals, refining, Naravane's visit to Saudi made by Mastercard in January infrastructure, mining and Arabia last week, the Ambas- 2020, when Pine Labs was de- manufacturing, agriculture sador said the setting up of clared a unicorn. and several other sectors. Saudi Ambassador to India Dr Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati the Strategic Partnership Earlier in December, Pine "Our plans to invest in In- values India as a strategic part- measures to revive its Council by the two countries Labs and Mastercard jointly an- dia are on track and we are in ner and a close friend, Al Sati economy in view of the impact opened new avenues of co- nounced that they will expand discussion to prioritize in- identified ongoing coopera- of the pandemic and said the operation in several sectors their integrated "pay later" so- vestment opportunities in tion in areas of training, knowl- economic recovery of both including defense and secu- lution to five South East Asian several sectors in both coun- edge sharing and combating countries will help elevate rity and counter-terrorism. PTI markets early next year. IANS December 25, 2020 TechBiz Post India Post 13 www.indiapost.com 4K Indian sellers surpass sales Tech Briefs worth Rs 1 cr in 2020 on Amazon Apple iPad with OLED display

NEW DELHI: Business of small cent YoY. Further, the number Amit Agarwal, Senior VP and not before 2022 and medium enterprises sell- of women entrepreneurs un- Country Head for Amazon In- ing products on Amazon.in wit- der 'Saheli' program saw their dia, said: "It's humbling to see SAN FRANCISCO: An iPad with Mini-LED backlighting nessed growth amid the pan- business grow nearly '15x', and over 10 lakh small businesses with an OLED display is un- in the first half of 2021. demic and around 4,152 Indian weavers and artisans part of associated with Amazon in In- likely until 2022 at the earli- "And it would seem rather sellers surpassed sales worth 'Karigar' program saw their dia. This year has been unprec- est, the media reported. quick for Apple to switch Rs 1 crore in 2020 on business grow by 2.8 times. edented and has impacted the The iPhone maker already display technologies twice Amazon.in, said a report by the Amazon.in has published way we work and live." uses OLED displays for the within the same year with e-commerce major. the 2020 Small and Medium "Yet, we remain inspired by iPhone X and newer and all the release of OLED mod- the undying entrepreneurial Apple Watch models, with els<" the report said. spirit, creativity, resolve and benefits over LCDs including Apple is also planning to trust in us of businesses, cre- higher brightness, improved launch 5G-enabled high-end ators, authors, etc. to over- contrast, in- iPad Pro come challenges and grow," he creased models said. power effi- next year Agarwal said that technol- ciency, wider with ogy adoption and digitization viewing mmWave will continue to play a crucial angles, and support. role in offering expanded ac- more. Apple's cess and opportunities to In a recent success in SMBs, and Amazon India re- discussion developing mains committed to invest and with Apple its own in- partner in their success. Suppliers, Barclays analysts house mmWave (antenna in Manish Tiwary, VP of Amazon predicted that iPads with an the package) modules for India said: "Through this chal- OLED display may come in next year's iPhone lineup has The report noted that the Business (SMB) Impact Report. lenging year, we introduced 2022. increased the likelihood that number of 'crorepati' sellers on The report marks some of the several innovations and mea- According to MacRumors, next-generation models in the platform grew 29 per cent achievements made by the sure to help our SMB partners Apple is planning to release Apple's iPad range would on a year-on-year basis. SMBs working with Amazon serve customers and it is the at least one iPad Pro model also benefit. PTI It said that emerging brands and highlights the impact of customer trust and engage- on Amazon Launchpad saw digitization on entrepreneurs ment with Amazon that re- their business grow by 135 per and businesses across sectors. flects in the success of lakhs of 5G connected cars to take 40% entrepreneurs, small busi- nesses and content creators of China market by 2025 included in this report." NEW DELHI: 5G connected expected to reach 8.2 mil- California Walnuts: Making Earlier this year, Amazon had car sales volume in China will lion units in 2020, a slight pledged to invest $1 billion to reach 7.1 million units in increase of 0.8 per cent YoY Everyday Healthy digitize 10 million SMBs, enable 2025, accounting for 40 per from the 8.1 million units e-commerce exports worth cent of the country's total shipped in 2019," said Se- $10 billion and create 1 million NEW DELHI: The year 2020 versatile nut that has the connected car sales volume, nior Analyst Aman Madhok. incremental jobs, by 2025. may have brought the world to power to help you that goes according to latest research. In terms of the global The report said that a halt, but there's one take ions beyond its wonderful nut- The sales volume of 4G share, China is expected to Amazon's B2B marketplace away from it - health, undoubt- tiness, making everyday connected cars are ex- grab 26.8 per cent of the registered 85 per cent YOY edly, is wealth. And self-care healthy. pected to reach 7.8 million sales volume in 2020, be- growth in sales. There has has become ever more impor- A handful of walnuts (28g) units in 2020 to account for coming the second-largest been a 64 per cent increase in tant to support mental health are packed with the essential 95 per cent of the country's connected car market. monthly order volumes in and holistic well-being. But fatty acid omega-3 ALA (2.5g) total connected car sales With a projected share how does one strike and also offer protein 2020. volume, according to Coun- of 30 per cent, the US will that health-work-life (4g), fiber (2g), It also said that there are terpoint Research's Smart continue to lead the mar- balance? How does and other key now over 70,000 Indian ex- Automotive service. ket while Europe will take one make time nutrients. porters selling millions of However, with 5G seeing the third spot, but with al- in their already They not 'Made in India' products world- a fast rollout in China and most the same volume as hectic sched- only sup- wide across 15 international the automotive industry ex- China. ules to rustle port heart Amazon websites. pected to grow faster start- The three state-owned up some- health, but re- "Indian SMBs and brands on ing 2021, the share of 5G telecom operators in China - thing nutri- search also indicates the program have crossed Rs connected car sales volume China Mobile, China Unicom, tious, power- that including walnuts as 15,000 crore in cumulative ex- will show rapid growth. and China Telecom - are ex- packed, healthy, and yummy? part of a healthy diet may play ports. In 2019, over 800 Indian "Despite the impact of pected to invest around Well, to start with, why not a role in helping to maintain small businesses on Global Sell- COVID-19, China's con- $184 billion in 5G networks grab a fistful of good ol' wal- and improve cognitive health ing surpassed Rs 1 crore in nected car sales volume are by 2025. PTI nuts! Yes, walnuts. They are a as people age. ANI/NewsVoir sales," said the report. IANS 14 India Post www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020

he COVID-19 pandemic has redefined the users for 3 months straight and they have come up rules for online dating in the country. With with the dating trends that will be followed in the in- the enforced lockdown restrictions and so dustry in the coming year. Tcial distancing norms in place, virtual dating has slowly become the new 'Favorite' among Indian Online Dating will continue to prosper in Tier 2 & 3 Average age of user is expected to drop singles. cities The current average age of users on QuackQuack The effect can be very well witnessed across dat- The months long isolation and social distancing has is 25 years that has dropped from 29 just a few years ing platforms as they experienced a vast surge in compelled the users from smaller cities to come online back. The average age is expected to drop even fur- new user signups from all over the country. Dating in search of their love interest. The app on-boarded 70 ther as more and more youngsters adopt the cul- app QuackQuack saw a whopping 300 percent in- percent of their new users from such cities and the ture of Online Dating. crease in signups from smaller cities and towns and trend is expecting to grow further as more & more that took their current user base to 11 million. The people start adopting the culture of Virtual Dating. Women have started to embrace Online Dating The app witnessed a 12 percent increase in women signups during the lockdown. With the in- creasing acceptance of the online dating culture and with the continuity of social distancing norms more women are expected to get comfortable with online dating. It also revealed that female users open the app 48 times a day while male users tend to use the app 24 times dur- ing the day. Women open the app twice as much as their male counterparts.

platform added the last million users in just 115 Dating apps are the new WhatsApp for couples days and in the past one year they added around The user chats on the app have increased from 3.40 million new users. 350k to 500k per day, a clear sign of things to come "2020 has been the year when virtual dating was with social distancing in place. They also witnessed accepted by masses among the desi-singles. We The era of commitment is back again! a 25 percent surge in profile views this year. With witnessed participation from people of all age There has been a welcome surge in people who are low confidence in stepping out, we can expect groups and geographies. What's pleasing to see was looking for meaningful relationships. With more time people to spend more time on dating apps brows- the huge growth in participation of users from small in hand, users are willing to go that extra-mile in order ing matches & interacting with their love interests. towns & cities and in the near future we are expect- to know their counter-part and are engaging with ing the number to shoot up even further," the profile of their interest for hours. It was re- Video Calling is the most preferred option says Ravi Mittal, Founder of QuackQuack vealed that the average time a user spends for Indian Singles on the growing culture of Online Dating on their app is 11 minutes. During the lockdown, video calling was in India. one of the most used features by couples on "With the COVID danger still hanging in dating platforms. This trend the backdrop and social is only expected to distancing norms grow as users are in- still in place, we are teracting with pro- expecting the com- files that are quite far ing year to continue to off from their current reap good results for location and it gives online dating as users them a sense of connec- are much more comfort- tivity & closeness. able in interacting virtually. QuackQuack is also com- If 2020 was the starter, 2021 ing up with a video calling will be the main course for feature on their app soon. daters!," he adds. IANSlife To analyze this growing trend of online dating, QuackQuack closely monitored 50,000 of their December 25, 2020 India Post 15

www.indiapost.com Home decor ideas for Christmas 2020

NEW DELHI: After a year full of turbu- make your living space more inviting cates the detail and enlivens the space. lence, Christmas seems to be that first and intriguing. You can place the chair Don't go for a dark shade, go for light ray of light that touches the surface of wherever you want but the preferred shade drapes so it will maintain the earth and fills the quit life into a bustling location would be right beside the fire- theme of Christmas. one. People have finally come out of their place. It will be even better if there are Rugs and Carpets home and started cleaning their houses two lounge chairs, that way it will com- It is very essential to bring any car- to prepare for Christmas. Decorations plete the setup. pet or a rug for your home, because it are in line, regardless of day or night. Ottomans creates a clean and organized space. A Christmas is all about giving and re- Right after placing two lounge chairs shaggy carpet or a Wool rug is very ap- ceiving the happiness to people that beside the fire place, place two to three propriate for this Christmas, as winters matter to you the most. To make the ottomans in the living room, because an will be less cold with the carpets. IANSlife For detailed story visit www.indiapost.com

maximum out of this festival, you can re- ottoman increases the seating capacity 5-day Tansen Music Conference decorate your place into a magnificent of your area, so in case of extra guests, abode of merry-making with just the you don't have to end up standing correct decor ideas. Here are 9 Christ- alone. Other than Christmas, it is often begins from Dec 26 mas home decor ideas by Heena Jain, used frequently in the house. Now, it is GWALIOR: The five-day All India gurated on December 26 morning at Head -- Design Consultant, not necessary to buy all the products Tansen Music Conference is going to be Tansen's tomb with traditional festive Woodenstreet that will completely either in red or white, any color can held in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior from rituals like 'Harikatha', playing shehnai, transform the look of your home: work the charm. December 26 to December 30. The etc. After this, the musical festival Lounge Chairs Bar Cabinet preparations for this major event are would begin from 3 p.m. It is a fact that a Sofa has the capabil- Now that you have settled with the going in full swing. As per the schedule, an event titled ity to completely transform the living seating arrangement, lets decide on the According to official information, the 'Vadi-Samvadi' during the conference area, but a lounge chair is not that far party starter. Just a bar cabinet is not Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has would be held at the Raja Mansingh behind. A beautiful lounge chair can enough, a fully functional bar cabinet is given permission for the festival to be Tomar Music and Arts University here what we need for this Christmas. A held at Tansen's tomb in Hazira in Gwalior. on December 28 between 1.30 p.m. proper wine cellar and a cabinet A subcommittee has been constituted to and 2.30 p.m. The university administra- with inverted wine glass section, ensure all the necessary arrangements tion would be organizing this event. spacious shelf will keep you handy for the musical conference are done and The last event of the Tansen festival when serving the drinks. This is the executed well in a time-bound manner. would take place in Behat. most important part, as the whole Special arrangements are being During the conference, food will be party will revolve around the made in view of the Covid-19 pandemic. made available in packets in view of the table. The musical conference would be inau- Covid-19 pandemic. IANS Bookshelf A bookshelf is what we need to design a perfect Christmas decor. Fetch all the books in the house and arrange each book into the bookshelf, and place it in a corner of your living room, so it can pro- vide a classic oxford appearance to the space. Curtains Just like we bring new clothes on the festival, bring the sets of curtains for your home, so that not a single corner remains un- touched. A curtain really demar- 16 India Post www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020

unnar is a haven of leys, giving a pleasant feeling. is also paradise for bird watch- peace and harmony. The scented cool air is filled ers as rare species of birds are M This incredibly beau- with the aroma of spices. The found in abundance and best tiful hill town is positioned at a rising and falling terrain of explored on Kerala packages. height of 6000ft in the Idukki Munnar is covered with forests Cocooned in the State of district of Kerala and is the and grasslands. Kerala, Munnar poses breath- most privileged summer resort. The undulated topography taking scenery amidst the Munnar was a significant resort offers a breathtaking vision of thriving green tea plantations even during the British mon- craggy rocks, adding to the pic- with the combination of val- archs in those colonial days. turesque scenery the town leys, streams, cliffs, bubbling Opulent with unique species captivates many tourists with brooks, exotic wildlife and and machinery are also dis- visiting spot in Munnar. With of flora and fauna, the place also its scenic beauty. Some of the clear trout streams making it played in the museum. For the fewer crowds, it is an ideal has an extensive stretch of tea trees found in the region are an irresistible place. tourists, to get a glimpse into place for romantic escapes plantations amidst the high teak, red sandalwood, rose Munnar is a perfect destina- the history and culture of the and picnics. mountains and unspoiled val- wood, jungle jack, etc. Munnar tion for adventure enthusiasts, region, a video presentation is The scenic waterfall of honeymoon couples, wildlife screened here. Atukkad lies about 2 km from and nature lovers. Accommo- Anamudi Peak: Anamudi Munnar town. Amidst lush dation facilities and tourist Peak lies to the interior of the green forest and hills, and guides are available easily Eravikulam National Park. This with fewer crowds, it is an suiting the budgets. It is ideal national park is at a peak of ideal place for romantic es- for tourist to spend at least 2 2695 m, and it towers the sanc- capes and picnics. nights so as to enjoy all that tuary in grandiose pride. Cheeyappara Waterfalls: Munnar tour packages have to This hill is opulent in various Located very close to Valara offer! kinds of flora and fauna and is Falls, Cheeyappara waterfall very well known for possessing lies between the towns of TOURIST ATTRACTIONS endangered animals. Anamudi Neriamangalam and Adimali, Tata Tea Museum: A very peak shelters many animals as along the national highway popular tourist attraction in it resembles the original linking Cochin with Madurai. It Munnar, Tata Tea Museum is lo- abode for the animals with its is around 40 km from Munnar. cated around 2 km from dense forests. Nilgiri langurs, This is a seven-step water- Munnar in Nallathanni Estate leopards, tigers, and fall and watching it cascading of Tata Tea. The museum show- macaques are found here. down is a meme rising sight. cases various antiquities and Atukkad Waterfalls: The An ideal picnic spot, tourists the most famous among them scenic waterfall of Atukkad can take a bus, taxi or auto is the burial urn excavated lies at a distance of about 2 rickshaw to reach this spot. from the vicinity of Periakanal km from Munnar town. Estate, dating back to 2nd cen- Amidst lush green forest and For detailed story visit tury. Curious, old photographs hills, this waterfall is a worth www.indiapost.com Desi News Hindi Club online Anterrashtriya COMMUNITY Kavi Sammelan

VIJAY CHOPRA CHICAGO: During this pan- ACROSS AMERICA "Women Who Win" Awarded WE Awards by demic year Hindi Club of Illi- New England Indian Medical Association nois (HCI) has hosted many online events. But the one that December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com India Post 17 Details on page 25 it hosted on Saturday, Decem- ber 19 was rather special. Pro- moted as Anterrashtriya Kavi Sammelan it turned out to be a Lake County Temple celebrates great and stimulating gather- ing of Hindi talents from across various parts of our world. Noted Hindi writers and po- Ram Janaki Vivah ets from India, Australia, GEETHA PATIL Canada and the USA shared their high quality poetic recit- als during a two-hour event. Details on page 20

Supporting LA's Essential Workers in the Pandemic VIDYA SETHURAMAN India Post News Service he COVID-19 pandemic has Tvividly highlighted how much society depends upon essential workers. Essential Vastram Offering to Lord Ram and Ma Janaki Welcome to Ma Janaki workers are heroes of the pan- demic but many pay a high CHICAGO: The Hindu Mandir day, December 18, 2020. distancing directions Ramayana. This was followed cost, putting themselves and of Lake County, Grayslake, a This day is of great impor- The temple priests per- by the chanting of Mantras their families at risk to do the Chicago suburb, celebrated tance especially in India and formed the ritual part of and Pujan of Lord Ganesh and work that keeps LA County the VivahUtsava/marriage an- Nepal, where all the Hindus theVivahUtsava. They wel- Lord Ram Parivar by the functioning. But essential work niversary of Lord Rama and Ma believe that Ma Janaki married comed Ma Janaki's Baraat with temple priest, Yogesh Pandey. extends beyond health care, in Janaki on the Vivah Panchami Lord Ram, the Prince of full happiness, devotion and Kanya Daanam, GauDaanam, food processing, construction, day that usually falls on the Ayodhya. The Hindu Mandir dedication and made all the tying of Mangal Sutra, offering of packing warehouses, and fifth day of the Shukla Paksha commemorated the arrangements for their Sindhoor, and exchange of cleaning and sanitizing busi- or the waxing phase of the VivahUtsavawith a limited Parvesh/entry into the shrine. Varamala were all done by Pt Anil nesses to name a few. moon in the Hindu calendar number of devotees due to Ma Janaki performed Ma Gauri Joshi Ji following all the Vedic ritu- month of Margashirsha on Fri- COVID-19 guideline and social Pujan as mentioned in the als and chanting of Vedic Mantras. Details on page 22 Later, both groom and bride's parties(devotees), offered Vastram and jewelries as gifts to American fabric Lord Ram and Ma Janaki respec- co. to remove God tively. image napkins Pt. Anil Joshi in his discourse said that before entering MADHU PATEL Grahasthashram, the couple CHICAGO: ADurham (North has to offer to each other, and Carolina) headquartered one should remove ego. Break- "world's largest custom fabric, ing of Shiva's Dhanush (bow) wallpaper and home decor by Lord Rama to win Sita as his digital marketplace," wife symbolizes the breaking Spoonflower's CEO has assured of the ego or arrogance. And removing napkins carrying im- performing ofPujan of Devi Ma ages of various Hindu deities by Ma Janaki to obtain Lord following strong protest from Ram as her husband along a large group of Indian Ameri- with happiness and prosperity cans in the country. in life represents offering of herself to Lord Ram as his wife. Details on page 23 Gauri Pujan by Ma Janaki Cont’d on page 21 18 India Post Community Across America December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com Solidarity Protest for Farmers in India SURENDRA ULLAL CHICAGO: The Chicago Sikh Youth, rights for farmers protesting. Sikh along with other local South Asian Com- youth speakers, Kiran Gill and munities, led a peaceful protest on De- Amneet Kaur educated the public cember 13, 2020 at the Federal Plaza in on the Farmer Laws and why this is Chicago, in support of farmers in India important for us as a united commu- who had organized historic protests in nity and shared how their farming f New Delhi against three anti-farmers relatives are impacted in India. laws passed by the Indian government Kiran Kaur Gill a ,prominent cor- in September of this year. porate lawyer spoke about these The peaceful protest saw a turnout laws. Monika Anand of Swaraj upwards of four-hundred participants Abhyan Chicago spoke about Indian from Illinois and other neighboring government treatment of minorities States. The participants donned masks in India. Ms Amneet Kaur spoke and warm winter wears to account for about rich Sikh heritage, fight both the COVID-19 pandemic and the against injustice. Amish Ahmed of cold Chicago. Many Participants' Indian American Muslim council Chicago Protest in support of Indian Farmers wore green and yellow in support of spoke about supporting against the farmer unions leading the pro- these illegal laws tests in India. Handouts outlining the lic on what's happening in India. today, thank a farmer." Participants In the memory of those who lost facts and objectives of the farmer pro- For approximately two hours, par- chanted, "No farmers...no food," and their lives in the #DelhiChalo ' pro- test were distributed to participants ticipants holding posters showcasing "Kissan Mazdoor Ekta...Zindabad. They test was not forgotten. A memorial and those passing-by with the pur- their support of farmers pithed for circled Federal Plaza with posters and for the martyrs who lost their lives pose of educating the American pub- "Take Back Farm Laws," and, "If you ate farmer union flags. In between chants, in the protest was displayed on ea- members of Chicago's youth spoke on sels with flowers, along with an ad- both the content of the anti-farmers ditional list with names of martyrs. laws, and the impact it's had on popula- The Chicago's peaceful protest tions within and outside of India. showcased solidarity and unity Speakers from both Sawaraj amongst South Asian communities in Abhiyan Chicago, Motika Anand and their support for the prosperity of the Indian American Muslim farmers in India. As posters at Council's, Aminah Ahmed, spoke of Sunday's peaceful protest in Chicago unity and solidarity with the farmers stated, quoting Bhagat Singh: "Labor of India and demanded basic human is the real sustainer of society."

Blow to Asian New York workers India Post News Service #MetroPlusYou will feature Broad- his week's in-door dining shutdown way star Telly Leung (Disney's Aladdin), Tis another major economic blow for Chinatown Ice Cream Factory owner Asian New Yorkers, who have seen the Christina Seid and others sharing per- highest increase in unem- ployment of any group in NYC due to the pandemic. Restaurants and eater- ies are a major source of employment for many low- income Asian workers and small business owners. The job losses have also left many without health insur- ance coverage - a critical need during this second wave of COVID. MetroPlus Health (a subsidiary of NYC Health + Hospitals) is joining forces with several prominent Asian NewYorkers Asian American New York- ers to address healthcare insecurity sonal tips on how to stay healthy and with a social media campaign launching positive during these challenging on Monday, December 21. times. December 25, 2020 Community Across America India Post 19 www.indiapost.com Update on the engagement between Govt and Farmers

India Post News Service Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, ap- Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior district on ance (UPA) government in 2006 but CHICAGO: On 17 December 2020, a pearing for the Government, sug- 16 December 2020, Shri Tomarsaid, the decision was not taken. But Modi bench headed by Chief Justice of In- gested people of eminence facilitate "The Swaminathan Committee said government did the job of declaring dia (CJI) S.A.Bobde asked Attorney dialogue between the farmers and that the MSP should be declared by MSP by adding 50 per cent profit on General K.K. Venugopal if the Govern- the Centre instead of constituting a adding 50 per cent profit on the cost the cost." ment can assure the Court that it will committee. Shri Mehta said, "We need of the farmer. The Swaminathan Com- not take any executiveaction on someone who can break the ice. I am mission presented its recommenda- Cont’d on page 24 implementation of the farm laws till suggesting that instead of a commit- tions to the United Progressive Alli- the Court hears the matter. tee adjudicating let there be people The CJI said it is to enable the dis- of eminence who can facilitate the cussion. During the hearing, the CJI dialogue. We have solutions issue wise Bobde observed that "The protest is to farmers. We have given them in constitutional till it does not destroy writing too." property or endanger life. It is an ab- While addressing an ASSOCHAM solutely perfect protest. But the pur- session via video conferencing on 16 pose cannot be realized if they December 2020, Agriculture Minister continueto sit without talking. The Shri Narendra Singh Tomar said that Centre and the farmers have to talk." "While there is a protest against re- The CJI said,"Blocking Delhi may lead forms, lakhs of farmers are also gath- to people in the city going hungry. ering to express support for bills. To- Your (farmers) purpose can be ful- day, thousands of farmers gathered in filled by talking. Just sitting in protest Gwalior for it."Meanwhile, addressing won't help." a gathering at Kisansammelan in

California brewery Asked to remove Lord Ganesha image from beer MADHU PATEL CHICAGO: A large group of Indian be worshipped in temples or home Americans across the country have shrines and not to be used in selling pitched with Weed (California) based beer. Moreover, linking a deity with an Mount Shasta Brewing Company not to alcoholic beverage is highly disre- use Lord Ganesha's image on its Moun- spectful, Zed added. Breweries should not be in the business of religious ap- propriation, sacrilege, and ridiculing entire communi- ties. It was deeply trivializing of immensely venerated Hindu deity Lord Ganesha to be portrayed on a beer label. Hinduism is the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about 1.2 billion adherents and a rich philo- sophical thought and it should not be taken frivo- lously. Symbols of any faith, larger or smaller, should not be mishandled; Zed noted. Mt. Shasta Brewing Co., the microbrewery which started producing bottled beer in 2005, claims: "Our beers Lord Ganesha Image guarantee to please your pal- ate". Mountain High IPA (62.1 tain High IPA beer, dubbing it highly in- IBU - 7% ABV) is described as "deep appropriate. golden, mild and malty". A blog posted The pitching campaign is led by Zed, on the microbrewery website about president of Universal Society of Hindu- this beer label mentions Ganesha, de- ism, it is contended that Lord Ganesh scribing him as "a Hindu God" and "lord is highly revered in Hinduism meant to of success". 20 India Post Community Across America December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com Hindi Club onlineAnterrashtriya Kavi Sammelan VIJAY CHOPRA

A group of participants of Kavi Sammelan

CHICAGO: During this pandemic year Hindi Club of Chief Guest Keshav Rai, President, with a traditional Saraswati Vandana recital by Dr. Illinois (HCI) has hosted many online events. But the Nisha Pandya who also skillfully emceed the event. one that it hosted on Saturday, December 19 was Vishaw Hindi Academy, Mumbai ap- Chief Guest Keshav Rai, President, Vishaw Hindi rather special. Promoted as Anterrashtriya Kavi Academy, Mumbai applauded HCI for its pioneering Sammelan it plauded HCI for its pioneering efforts in efforts in promoting Hindi overseas. Through his poem turned out to be promoting Hindi overseas. Through his he encouraged all Indian diaspora to keep this flame a great and of language and culture burning bright. Chanchala stimulating poem he encouraged all Indian diaspora Priyadarshini of Boston shared her thoughtful and gathering of to keep this flame of language and touching poem on motherhood. Monica Sharma of Hindi talents Faridabad, India recitals included feelings of staying from across vari- culture burning bright away abroad. ous parts of our Dr. Farooque Rehman of Mumbai showcased some world. moving poetry about down to earth topics. Ambica Noted Hindi Sharma from Montreal shared her sentiments about writers and po- middle age women not giving up. ets from India, Special Guest Girlish Vidrohi, Rashtriay Kavi, a song Australia, writer and highly regarded and decorated writer kept Canada and the the audience spell bound with his unique style and USA shared their recitals. Canadian poetess Pramilla Bhargava shared high quality po- her views about struggles in learning Hindi in a for- Kavi Girish Vidrohi Guest of Honor etic recitals dur- eign country. Talented couple Bhavana Kunwar and ing a two-hour Prageet Kunwar from Sydney, Australia shared their event. The event was carried live on Facebook and was ghazal recitals. followed live by thousands of enthusiastic fans over The event rounded off with an impressive poem on many countries. various aspects of life by HCI Secretary, Vijay Chopra. The event opened with HCI Secretary, Vijay Chopra In closing this wonderful event he thanked the vital introducing HCI Founder and President Gurbachan technical support of Puneet Chhibber, expert Kaur Neelam who shared some background about the compering by Nisha Pandya and our supporters Sunil Club and welcomed the participants. Program started Shah, Ashok Lachlan of PMI mortgage, SBI, Regal Jew- Ms Nisha Pandya Host of the event els, Ganesh Temple, Radio Panipuri. HCI will host its next virtual event on World Hindi Divas, January 10, 2021 at 10:30 am Central. Please watch our home page www.hindiclub.org or our Facebook page /HindiClubIL for details.

Shri Keshav Rai Chief Guest SmtGurbachan Kaur Founder President Hindi Club of Illinois Vijya Chopra Secretary December 25, 2020 Community Across America India Post 21 www.indiapost.com Supporting LA's Essential Workers in the Pandemic

VIDYA SETHURAMAN grants are critical to the success of the cess to public services and engage the nesses in the county and created con- India Post News Service country's economy. They are more likely community around issues such as wage tracts with nonprofits to ensure that he COVID-19 pandemic has vividly to be entrepreneurs and make up 40 - theft, worker safety, childcare, and workers of different ethnic groups, sub- highlighted how much society 60 % of the essential workforce. Immi- workforce development. OIA has also ject to wage theft, have available re- Tdepends upon essential workers. grants not only make up a large propor- been holding weekly news conferences sources." The county's tools include Essential workers are heroes of the pan- tion of L.A. County's workforce, but they in English and Spanish for ethnic and fines ranging from $ 200 to $ 2,000 per demic but many pay a high cost, put- are also disproportionately repre- community media to share information day and have the authority to intervene ting themselves and their families at sented among essential workers, in- about COVID-19 and available re- in settlements. "We have already solved risk to do the work that keeps LA County cluding in food services, nursing, con- sources. In early February of 2021, as the wage theft for 1,500 workers; and functioning. But essential work extends struction, and childcare. Alongside part of its new LA Immigrant Essential more than $ 3 million in money has beyond health care, in food processing, poor housing conditions, immigrants Workers Initiative, OIA will host a two- been recovered. " construction, packing warehouses, and are also more likely to live in higher day summit "focused on day laborers, Monica Nguyen, director of the GAIN cleaning and sanitizing businesses to density buildings and neighborhoods, domestic workers and DACA recipients program at the Department of Public name a few. Dec 14 EMS briefing spot- Social Services (DPSS), said that due to lights the programs the county pro- L.A. County has more than 3.6 million immigrants, a third of the the pandemic there is much more un- vides to support them. employment than normal in Los Ange- Michael Nobleza, FUSE Executive Ad- population, according to a recent report from the University of les County, and they provide a safety visor for the Office of Immigrant Affairs Southern California. Immigrants are critical to the success of the net for those who have lost their jobs. (OIA). discussed on the Immigrant es- To find out the eligibility criteria, you sential workers, upcoming Essential country's economy. They are more likely to be entrepreneurs can call the customer service phone: Worker Summit hosted by OIA, includ- and make up 40 - 60 % of the essential workforce 866-613-3777; or 877-292-4246. ing the essential worker support initia- During the COVID-19 pandemic, we tives that OIA is planning for the com- have seen an increase in the number of ing year. Immigrants have always been which makes the respect of social dis- entering the workforce" to propose workers working for less than the mini- a vital part of the social and economic tancing more difficult. Undocumented legislation reforms and connect essen- mum wage. They don't report this fear- fabric of this country. They have always workers are ineligible for most state tial workers to "wraparound" services. ing they might lose their earnings. taken on an oversized share of the front- and federal aid programs, and the fed- Rose Basmadzhyan, Chief of the Wage "Can't blame them. That is why we have line work of caring for our sick, our eral CARES Act disqualifies entire Enforcement Program & Investigation come together to promote a coalition young, and our elderly. So it may not be households for assistance if just one Division at the Department of Con- for a safety net for legislators to provide surprising that immigrant communities person is undocumented, cutting out sumer & Business Affairs (DCBA) said assistance to undocumented employ- are disproportionately impacted by the 1.125 million Angeleno citizens or they provide services to employers and ees, especially when they face retalia- COVID-19 pandemic. green card holders, Nobleza said. employees to ensure there is no theft tion, "said Yvonne Medrano, attorney L.A. County has more than 3.6 million OIA aims to increase immigrants' ac- of wages. "We have reached 2,000 busi- for Bet Tzedek Legal Services. immigrants, a third of the population, according to a recent report from the University of Southern California. Immi- Lake County celebrates Ram Janaki Vivah

Cont’d from page 17

He further stated that Lord Ram symbolizes 'Dharma' and Ma Janaki sym- bolizes 'Bhakti and Shanti.' One's Bhakti and Shanti will not become complete without Dharma. The marriage of Lord Ram and Ma Janaki signifies the mar- riage between Dharma and Bhakti. Both Dharma and Bhakti must go hand-in- hand for experiencing happiness and peace in life. NEWS on your desktop

www.indiapost.com 22 India Post Community Across America December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com LA's health care needs in the pandemic

VIDYA SETHURAMAN Programs, LA County Department of web based eligibility and enrollment (LACDMH) supports the wellbeing of India Post News Service Health Services (DHS). It is a primary system called One-e-App, said Anna. our County residents and communities. record number of COVID-19 care program for low income uninsured What Does MHLA Cover? We cover LACDMH has published the materials to deaths were reported in Los An residents of LA County. It is not health preventive health care, medications, address mental health & wellbeing A geles County this week, as well insurance. It is funded by the Los Ange- basic labs, dental care at some sites, needs and concerns in different lan- as an overwhelming number of cases in les County Board of supervisors and specialty, urgent, emergency care at guages. LACDMH's 24/7 Helpline at the midst of intensive care units state- DHS. We don't ask for immigrant status, DHS. We also provide mental health pre- (800) 854-7771 is available to provide wide slipping to just 1.7% remaining ca- said Anna. Anybody who is uninsured, vention and SUD treatment. Programs mental health support, resources and pacity. Community spread of the virus LA County residents, age 26 or older such as MHLA are essential during the referrals. is now so rampant that officials esti- and income at or below the Federal pandemic and become imperative to Sherri Cheatham, head of the Depart- mate about 1 in 80 county residents are poverty level are eligible for this pro- the low income, uninsured population. ment of Social Services (DPSS) Home and infected and infecting others. EMS Medical Support Services program, said briefing on Dec 17 explained on MyHealth LA is here to help you with COVID-19 questions that due to the pandemic, they have en- MyHealth LA's 200-clinic network, who and answers, including how to protect yourself and your family countered a record number of people qualifies for MediCal coverage, how to and how to find community resources, said Anna Gorman, who are unemployed; or whose salary access mental health care, and more. has dropped due to reduced hours. Dr. Christina Ghaly, the county's di- MPH, Director of Community Partnerships & Programs, The department has expanded their rector of health services, put it bluntly: LA County Department of Health Services (DHS) efforts to let people know about the "Our hospitals are under siege, and our availability of Medi-Cal for their health model shows no end in sight." needs and to get screened for COVID. My Health LA is here to help you with gram. We have seen predominantly She urged everyone to take a look at "We have had to close the services in COVID-19 questions and answers, in- Spanish speaking population availing the website and spread information on person, but we attend them by phone; cluding how to protect yourself and this program. Individuals enroll at MHLA this program. and we have more hours of attention your family and how to find community at one of 52 community partner clinics, The COVID-19 pandemic has intensi- from 7:30 a.m. at 7:30 p.m. from Mon- resources, said Anna Gorman, MPH, Di- which has over 200 clinic sites. Patients fied mental health issues, depression, day to Friday; and on Saturdays from 8 rector of Community Partnerships & enroll at the clinics using the County's anxiety, stress and the urge to stop liv- a.m. at 4 p.m. " Support services in the ing, Los Angeles County experts said. home continue to be offered unless Miriam Brown, Deputy Director, Depart- someone has COVID. ment of Mental Health (DMH) spoke on L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti wrote on the programs run by LA county for men- Twitter, "This is as serious as it gets. We tal well being of the residents during must flatten the curve to avoid over- the pandemic. The Los Angeles County whelming our hospital system, Stay in- Department of Mental Health doors and mask up".

Bipartisan resolution urging China to end military aggression toward India passes both chambers NELA PANDYA WASHINGTON, DC: The U.S. House and legislation into law, the United States Senate officially passed the National government will send a clear message Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), that China's military provocations of In- which included key components of dia will not be tolerated. The United Congressman Krishnamoorthi's resolu- States is committed to standing with tion language urging the Chinese gov- our allies and partners like India in re- ernment to end its military aggres- sion toward India along the Line of Actual Control. The inclusion of this provision, which Krishnamoorthi led as an amendment when the bill passed the House, reflects the US Government's strong support for its allies and partners like India in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond: "Violent aggression is seldom the answer, and this is especially true for the Line of Actual Control, which is the solving the border standoff using dip- disputed border region that separates lomatic means." the People's Republic of China from In- Raja Krishnamoorthi's measure, dia," said Raja Krishnamoorthi. He which passed each chamber with over- added, "By including my resolution lan- whelming bipartisan support, will be- guage in the NDAA and signing that come law if President Trump signs it. December 25, 2020 Community Across America India Post 23 www.indiapost.com Operation Income Illusion by FTC

VIDYA SETHURAMAN the Federal Trade Commission. communities. tisements online or in TV, radio ship, we see many kinds of India Post News Service The FTC officials briefed the Kati Daffan and Rhonda and newspapers. money making schemes he financial impact of the Ethnic media on new informa- Perkins, two lawyers in the The Federal Trade Commis- spreading like wildfire, espe- pandemic has created an tion to share with their audi- FTC's Division of Marketing sion (FTC) has announced a cially on social media," said Tenvironment that's ripe ence to help them spot and Practices, spotlighted a variety new operation, Operation In- Kati Daffan, an assistant direc- for scammers. As consumers avoid scams targeting your of scams promoted in adver- come Illusion, to crack down on tor in the FTC's division of mar- struggle with financial uncer- keting practices. "Schemes like tainty in the COVID economy, this are illegal because they're promoters of questionable inherently harmful." Daffen work-at-home offers, coaching says you should research the programs, and other scams company and contact the FTC and schemes are contributing with your concerns. ?? to the problem. Income-based If a company promises ex- scams have increased signifi- travagant earnings, strongly cantly because of the pan- emphasizes recruiting, or uses demic. In the first nine months high-pressure sales tactics, it of 2020, people looking for could be a pyramid scheme. ways to earn money were "Sometimes a pyramid scheme cheated out of $150 million, might be trying to look like an according to new data from MLM enterprise. We have some red flags that we encour- fraudsters targeting victims age consumers to look out for," with fake promises of jobs or said Daffen. income . Operation Income Il- COVID Vaccine related American fabric co. to lusion will target over 50 law scams are expected to sky- enforcement actions against rocket in coming months. If those operating "work-from- you get a call, text, email - or remove God image napkins home and employment scams, even someone knocking on MADHU PATEL pyramid schemes, investment your door - claiming they can scams, bogus coaching get you early access to the vac- CHICAGO: ADurham (North don't know what we don't Hindu deities (Shiva, Krishna, courses" and other such scams, cine, STOP. That's a scam. Don't Carolina) headquartered know. We humbly acknowl- Lakshmi, Ganesh, Murugan, which the release stated can pay for a promise of vaccine "world's largest custom fabric, edge that fact." Kali, Hanuman, etc.) are meant cost consumers thousands of access or share personal infor- wallpaper and home decor Rajan is President of Univer- to be worshipped in temples dollars. mation. Instead, report it to the digital marketplace," sal Society of Hinduism and he or home shrines and not for A recent FTC analysis of cus- FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or Spoonflower's CEO has assured thanked Spoonflower and wiping mouth/fingers, catch- tomer data found that custom- file a complaint with your state removing napkins carrying im- Jones for quick action and un- ing crumbs, blowing nose, con- ers have reported losses of or territory attorney general ages of various Hindu deities derstanding the concerns of taining coughs/sneezes, $610 million to these kinds of through www.consume- following strong protest from throwing on dirty plate, cover- scams since 2016, with the rresources.org, the consumer a large group of Indian ing lap, etc. Inappropriate us- number sitting at around $150 website of the National Asso- Americans in the country. age of sacred Hindu deities or million for the first nine months ciation of Attorneys General. Spoonflower CEO Michael concepts or symbols or icons of this year, according to call. Both speakers urged every- Jones, in a statement posted for commercial or other Scams investigated in this par- one to contact the FTC with on company website and agenda was not okay as it hurt ticular sweep have netted over any suspicions. You can do so sent to Rajan Zed, who the devotees, Rajan argued. $1 billion from victims, said the at www.ReportFraud.ftc.gov, spearheaded the protest, "Global marketplace" like official. or www.Reporte wrote:... "we are newly in- Spoonflower should not be in "At a time like this, when Fraude.ftc.gov or by phone at formed that the display of the business of religious ap- there's so much financial hard- (877) 382-4357. Hindu deity imagery on propriation, sacrilege, and ridi- some of our dining prod- culing entire communities. It ucts is unsuitable within was deeply trivializing of im- Hindu religion tenets…We mensely venerated Hindu apologize to the Hindu gods and goddesses like Shiva, community for the inad- Krishna, Lakshmi, Ganesh, vertent misuse of this im- Murugan, Kali, Hanuman, etc., agery… Among the actions we to be displayed on napkins; will take is in removing Hindu Rajan Zed had emphasized. deity designs from Spoonflower, reportedly es- Spoonflower.com home decor, tablished in 2008 and with of- and its home decor Hindu community, which fices in Durham and Berlin marketplaces…we always thought that placing images of (Germany), claims to be "a glo- want to appropriately respond Hindu gods and goddesses on bal marketplace connecting when we are fortunate enough napkins was insensitive and makers and consumers with to learn that we sometimes disquieting. artists worldwide". 24 India Post Community Across America December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com Highest eviction rates in California - Central Valley's tenants push for housing rights

VIDYA SETHURAMAN surge in homelessness during their income in rent, but also Dec 18. only $12 per hour. These gaps India Post News Service the deadliest phase of the pan- face the highest eviction rates; Claude Bailey, an African- are not static over time but are n California, a family must demic so far. California's Cen- and minority women with chil- American senior living in the growing as rent increases out- report a household income tral Valley-the fastest growing dren have been disproportion- Central Valley city of Stockton, pace wage increases; this pan- I of roughly $100,000 to region of the state with 7.2 mil- ately affected by home evic- had to leave his apartment demic has pushed many to the make the median rent in the lion-has long been seen as a tions. where he lived for more than brim. The central valley pro- state. Millions of California low-rent sanctuary amidst a Jessica Ramirez, a mother of 20 years, when he was told he vides our food, but people six children, experienced an eviction and was forced to live Claude Bailey, an African-American senior living in In the Central Valley, not only do tenants on the streets. "For no reason, the Central Valley city of Stockton, had to leave his pay more than half of their income in rent, but they gave me a warning to leave early in the pandemic. apartment where he lived for more than 20 years, also face the highest eviction rates; and When you go to court to de- fend yourself so that you are when he was told he no longer qualified for Section minority women with children not thrown out of your home, it 8, the subsidy program to low-income housing does not matter how much evi- dence you bring. I ended up on renters are at risk of eviction as crisis in affordable housing. In the street, living in the car with no longer qualified for Section there cannot not only own tenant protections soon ex- the Central Valley, not only do a newborn child ", said Ramirez 8, the subsidy program to low- their home, but they do not pire, raising fears of a mass tenants pay more than half of in the EMS conference call on income housing. "I had to live have the ability to buy their in my car for over 5 months" own food and are dependent and this has affected me physi- on food stamps. cally and emotionally. Janine Nkosi, regional coun- Shri Ram Mandir Nidhi Professor Edward Orozco of selor for the Fresno-based the University of California at community organization Faith Merced said that the Central in the Valley, said there are Samarpan drive Valley of California despite the more evictions in the Central economic growth it has expe- Valley than anywhere else in India Post News Service ally take the form of a Rashtra figuration and layout would rienced, offers very low wages. California. In California we have MUMBAI: The support of ev- Mandir (Temple of the na- very soon come out. The en- As a result, few people own protection against evictions ery Ram devotee from all over tion). tire temple will be of stone homes, and the homes are in- until January 31 and we hope the country will be solicited for Many struggled for re- blocks. Every-one of the three habited by multiple families. that before January the pro- the grand temple to be built claiming the birthplace of floors will be 20 feet high; the In Fresno, the largest urban posal of Assemblyman David on the birthplace of Bhagwan Bhagwan Sri Ram. Finally, the length and breadth of the center of the Central Valley, a Chiu that prohibits Sri Rama in Ayodhya. Supreme Court sealed its ap- temple will be 360 and 235 family needs to earn nearly homeowners from evicting For this, Vishva Hindu proval to this just demand feet respectively. $20 per hour to afford the me- tenants damaged by the pan- Parishad will go from door to from the society and the his- Shri Champat Rai of VHP dian rent in the area while the demic will be approved until door with the venerated torical associated with the said that it is planned to go current state minimum wage is December 31, 2021. saints announcing Shri Ram temple directing the Govern- from door-to-door to create Janmabhoomi Mandir Nidhi ment to form a trust. The gov- awareness among at least Samarpan Abhiyan. This inten- ernment announced a trust in half of the country's 1350 mil- lion people from Kashmir to Update on the engagement Preparations are underway to construct Kanyakumari and Atuck to Cuttack leasing out any cor- between Govt and Farmers the temple. Engineers from IIT Mumbai, IIT Delhi, ner of the country unvisited. IIT Chennai, IIT Guwahati, CBRI Roorkee, Larsen The plan is to hand out Ram Cont’d from page 19 KisanSammelanon 16 Decem- temple literature to people ber, Minister Shri Purisaid,"Our & Toubro and Tata, are working on the and seek their support. Minister for Housing & Ur- farmer sisters and brothers, in- foundation drawing The temple is of Shree ban Affairs, Shri Hardeep Singh cluding those from Punjab, Ram and lack of funds cannot Puri said at an online function have played a pivotal role in be a hindrance in the work of of industry chamber HDCCI on Green Revolution and towards sive and extensive campaign the name of "Shri Ram God. In order to maintain 17 December, "It pains me that India's effort to attain food se- will commence from the up- Janmabhoomi TeerthKshetra". transparency in the financial many people who are sitting in curity." He was joined by senior coming Makar Sankranti Preparations are underway dealings and transactions, protest probably are not aware leaders of Punjab from BJP unit January 15, 2021 and last till to construct the temple. En- the trust has printed cou- of what they are protesting at the event. Magh-Purnima February 27 gineers from IIT Mumbai, IIT pons and receipts of de- against... Government is still PM was to have also ad- 2021 as per VHP Delhi, IIT Chennai, IIT nominations of INR 10, 100 sending a message to all the dressed 'kisansammelan'or Karyakartasplan, reaching out Guwahati, CBRI Roorkee, and 1000. Karyakartas will is- farmers that please come and Farmers' conferences across to 110 million families of Larsen & Toubro and Tata, are sue coupons or receipts ac- talk". While interacting with Madhya Pradesh on December 400,000 villages of the coun- working on the foundation cording to what the society farmers on their concerns over 18 at 2 pm via video try. Ram temple would actu- drawing. The foundation con- contributes. farm bills at a virtual conferencing. December 25, 2020 Community Across America India Post 25 www.indiapost.com "Women Who Win" Awarded WE Awards by New England Indian Medical Association

India Post News Service webinars, podcasts, and more cialists in topics such as aller- ShaleenSheth, have done ex- Israel Lahey Hospital in the NEW ENGLAND: Dr. Manju including Business, Policy, Tech- gies, nutrition and wellness, traordinary work to empower Boston Region in Massachu- Sheth, Dr. Deepa Jhaveri, and nology, Social Activism, Arts & pulmonary, dental care during women globally in these tough setts. ShaleenSheth, the pioneers in Lifestyle, Global Recipes, Covid-19 and more. Further, times." Dr. Sheth wears many hats creating a new movement to Women's Health and more with they highlighted the discus- From the stories of social ac- to her credit. A multi-tasker empower women with the re- trailblazing contributors across sion in healthcare policy, in- tivists fighting to end gender- and with full of energy, has cent launch of their movement, all fields. cluding gender gap in based violence and the life of a been a big advocate for em- "Women who win "This year with the pan- healthcare, affordable female pilot flying planes for powerment of women and she #Dreamcatchers" were demic and other challenges healthcare, and creating humanity, to a woman building has invested her time, energy awarded the prestigious Lead- being faced in the world right change with leading health re- 2200 schools for girls in remote and efforts all her life more ership in Women Empower- now, women who win brings form pioneer Rosemarie Day. areas, trailblazing millennials, than any other cause. She said ment Award by Indian Medical and women overcoming adver- "I always remind myself, that Association of New England sities and challenges of daily anything worth having has to (IMANE) at the annual gala or- Founded in 1978, IMANE is one of the oldest life, the platform has something be worked for." ganized virtually on Saturday, Indian Medical Associations in the United States. for everyone. To join a global group of December 12, 2020. Dr. Manju Sheth is a physi- women around the world to Founded in 1978, IMANE is It is an organization for medical professionals of cian by profession, having a share stories and discuss one of the oldest Indian Medi- passion for media and commit- prominent and relevant cal Associations in the United Indian origin in the New England area ment to serve the larger hu- women's topics, join their vi- States. It is an organization for manity, with special focus on brant community on medical professionals of Indian women's empowerment. She is Facebook,Instagram,Linkedin& origin in the New England area. positivity and inspiration, re- They have also brought in the a Board Certified Internist, cur- website www.women- "Women who win# minding women to continue patient's perspective, sharing rently serving patients at Beth whowin100.com Dreamcatchers" is a Global chasing their dreams and make women in our community's Media Platform sharing it a reality," said Dr. MajuSheth powerful journeys with breast dreams, Passions & Life lessons the visionary women's leader. and colon cancer. of a Woman's Journey, Empha- Women Who Win has done In her address, Dr. Dhrumil IMPACT Launches Historic sizing women empowerment outstanding work for global Shah, President of IMANE, said, across all ages, industries, and women's health and wellness "The work of a small group of $2.5M Campaign In Georgia backgrounds, & bringing through weekly articles and thoughtful and passionate in- women from around the world webinars, bringing together dividuals can change the cal role in January for the Geor- India Post News Service together daily with inspiring, providers and patients around world. I never doubted this gia Senate runoff races," Makhija relatable, and relevant original the world, and IMANE is ex- sentiment but, there is a differ- GEORGIA: IMPACT, a leading continued. "IMPACT's historic in- stories. cited to have collaborated ence in believing it and experi- Indian American advocacy and vestment over the remaining The platform was honored with them on webinars includ- encing it first-hand. This year political action committee, has weeks of the campaign will har- for "Leadership in Women Em- ing an international podiatry the work of three women in launched a historic $2.5 million ness this emerging power of powerment" as the panel, and an open-minded our community, two of them campaign to turnout AAPI vot- South Asian and Asian American "President's Award." The plat- conversation on gynecology. being IMANE (Indian Medical ers in Georgia ahead of the voters to help deliver Georgia form has featured as exclusive This year, they have brought Association leaders] Dr. Manju January Senate runoffs. and control of the U.S. Senate for interviews, skill shares, expertise from renowned spe- Sheth, Dr. Deepa Jhaveri, and The funds will be spent on Democrats. This election can digital, mail, and turnout op- play a transformative role for the erations. Biden-Harris Administration and "MPACT Executive Director for our country, and Asian Ameri- Neil Makhija said. "The Demo- cans realize that -which is why cratic Party couldn't win the they're already turning in their presidency or the Senate with- ballots in record numbers." out Asian Americans. In No- In November's general elec- vember, South Asian and Asian tion, AAPI voters - the fastest- American voters were the criti- growing demographic nation- cal difference between victory ally and in the state of Georgia and defeat in Georgia, Pennsyl- - helped swing Georgia for vania, and Arizona. The num- Democrats for the first time in bers are striking: Asian Ameri- more than 25 years. cans increased turnout more IMPACT's new Georgia cam- than any other demographic, paign follows its $10 million nearly doubling in Georgia. campaign in November fo- Asian Americans are becoming cused on targeting Asian a core constituency of the American voters in Pennsylva- Democratic Party, but they nia and Arizona, the largest- can't be taken for granted." ever effort to target South "We are poised to play a criti- Asian voters. Health Line

US experts debate: Who should be next in line for vaccine?

NEW YORK: The US COVID-19 vaccination campaign has be- One can be said to be perfectly healthy in body and mind only if no part of the body or mind makes itself felt. A part gun, and the few available makes itself felt only when there is something wrong with it. You know that you have a head only when it aches. Sri Atmananda (1883 - 1959) doses are mostly going into the arms of health-care workers and 26 India Post www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 nursing home residents. But what about in January, February and March, when more shots are expected to be- China's Covid vaccine is come available? Who should get those doses? A federal panel of vaccination experts takes up that question at an emergency caught in controversy meeting this weekend. SPS PANNU No matter what the com- mittee decides, there will be NEW DELHI: China has been collaboration with Pune-based tical Group of China said on been questioned in Brazil differences from state to state. projecting itself as the front- Serum Institute of India. Brazil Wednesday that its subsidiary where it is undergoing trials. The panelists are leaning to- runner in the Covid vaccine and Taiwan have also raised has entered into an agreement Brazilian health regulator ward putting essential workers race but has now gone in for a questions over the Chinese with the German firm aimed at Anvisa had said on Monday first because bus drivers, gro- deal to buy the Pfizer BioNtech vaccine candidates. ensuring "an adequate supply" that the Chinese health au- cery store clerks and similar em- vaccine from Germany for its The fact that China is now of vaccines in China. The com- thorities had not been trans- ployees can't work from home. own use which shows that the sourcing 100 million doses of pany will make an initial pay- parent about their experimen- They are the people getting in- dragon is not as confident in its the Covid-19 vaccine from Ger- ment $152 million this month tal Covid-19 vaccines, one of fected most often, and where home-made product as it which is currently being concerns about racial inequities would have others believe. tested in Sao Paulo. in risk are most apparent. Beijing had launched aggres- The health regulator But other experts say sive vaccine diplomacy to woo pointed out that while the vac- people age 65 and older ASEAN, Brazil and Mexico as cine has had an emergency use should be next, along with part of its campaign to increase authorization in China since people with certain medical its influence worldwide. How- June, the country's authorities conditions. Those are the ever, countries in the ASEAN have not been transparent people who are dying at the bloc have turned away from the about the criteria used for highest rates, they say. offer and signed deals for the granting this authorization. The group is scheduled to Pfizer vaccine instead since Doubts over the Chinese vote on the proposal soon af- there is no transparency in the vaccine were earlier raised ter it discusses a vaccine made development of the Chinese when Taiwan made it very clear by Moderna. vaccine as is the case with much that it would not buy COVID I think we know this isn't go- else in the country. ASEAN vaccines manufactured by ing to be perfect. We don't members Thailand, the Philip- man company BioNtech for its for 50 million doses while an- mainland companies due to have vaccine for everyone pines and Malaysia have final- own use only goes to other $152 million would be safety and regulatory concerns. right away, so we're going to ized deals for procuring COVID- strengthen the doubts of paid after receiving authoriza- According to reports in Tai- have to make difficult deci- 19 vaccines from US pharma gi- these countries over the Chi- tion to commercialize the Ger- wanese media, Chen Shih- sions, said Claire Hannan AP ant Pfizer and Britain's nese vaccine candidates. man vaccine in Mainland China. Chung, head of the Central Epi- AstraZeneca which also has a Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceu- China's vaccine has also demic Command Center, said the reasons for the decision include the questionable quality of Chinese vaccines and US Covid deaths top 310,000: Johns Hopkins University production processes, which have both been a source of NEW YORK: US Covid-19 the US state-level death toll list. showed. States with more than with the world's highest safety concerns. He had de- deaths surpassed 310,000 on Texas recorded the second most 10,000 fatalities also include Illi- caseload and death toll, ac- nied allegations that Taiwan 17 December, according to deaths, which stood at 24,932. The nois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Mas- counting for more than 18 was putting ideology before the Center for Systems Sci- states of California, Florida and sachusetts and Georgia. per cent of the global deaths. public health by not seeking ence and Engineering (CSSE) New Jersey all confirmed more The US remains the nation US Covid-19 deaths Chinese vaccines. at Johns Hopkins University. than 18,000 deaths, the CSSE tally hit the worst by the pandemic, soared above 300,000 on Chou Jih-haw, who sits on With the national case count December 14, and added Taiwan's coronavirus task force, topping 17.1 million, the death 10,000 in just three days. added that China is infamous toll across the US amounted to On Wednesday 16 Decem- for its inoculation history of 310,095 as of 5.26 p.m. local ber, the country reported flawed vaccine management time (2226 GMT), according to 3,656 deaths, the highest and administration. Scandals the CSSE data, Xinhua news single-day rise in death toll have surfaced in China over agency reported. since the pandemic began, New York State registered according to data compiled the years, including over the 36,052 fatalities, at the top of by the university. IANS use of expired polio vaccines in 2019. IANS December 25, 2020 Wellness Post India Post 27 www.indiapost.com Health of fathers-to-be is linked Trump stays on sidelines as to risk of pregnancy loss vaccine injections begin WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump's admin- WASHINGTON: The findings of a new study suggest birth. This is the first study to suggest that pregnan- istration helped deliver vaccinations against the that more than a quarter of pregnancies might be ec- cies sired by men with increasing numbers of medical coronavirus earlier than even some in his adminis- tration thought possible, but the president has topic or end in miscarriage or stillbirth if the father- conditions are at higher risk of ending in miscarriage, been largely absent from the effort to sell the to-be is unhealthy and has three or more medical con- ectopic pregnancy or stillbirth. American public on what aides hope will be a key ditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure "In the group of men we studied, the risk of losing part of his legacy. or high cholesterol levels. the pregnancy was 17% in couples where the Trump launched Operation Warp Speed the gov- In a retrospective study of nearly a mil- father had no components of the meta- ernment campaign to help swiftly develop and dis- lion pregnancies between 2009 and bolic syndrome but increased to 21% in tribute vaccines this spring 2016 in the US, published today in the couples where the father has one with great fanfare in the journal Human Reproduction, re- metabolic syndrome component, White House Rose Garden. searchers found that if the father 23% where he has two, and 27% But now, five days into was diagnosed with metabolic syn- where he has three or more. the largest vaccination drome, which includes these medi- "While this study cannot prove campaign in the nation's cal conditions, there was an in- that poor paternal health is a cause history, Trump has held no creased risk of the mother losing the of pregnancy loss, it shows there is an public events to trumpet pregnancy. Compared to men who association. The clinical implications of the rollout. He hasn't been had none of the components of meta- these findings are that pre-conception inoculated himself. He has bolic syndrome, the risk of pregnancy loss counseling should not forget the father, as tweeted only twice about Donald Trump the shot. increased by 10%, 15% and 19% respectively his health may have an important impact on the Vice President Mike Pence, meanwhile, has taken for men with one, two or three or more components. pregnancy." center stage touring a vaccine production facility Associate Professor Michael Eisenberg from The researchers analyzed data from US insurance this week and preparing to receive a dose himself Stanford University School of Medicine (California, claims covering 958,804 pregnancies. As well as meta- on live television. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and USA), who led the research, said: "It's been known for bolic syndrome, they gathered information on other Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell both said some time that the health of mothers has an impact medical conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmo- they will get vaccinated in the next few days. AP on the developing fetus and events at the time of nary disease (COPD), depression and heart disease. ANI Realty Tidbits

Trump's move to his Florida estate Real Estate challenged

FORT LAUDERDALE: Presi- dent Donald Trump's expected Griha pravesh tips for your new move to his Mar-a-Lago club af- ter he leaves office next month house, this festive season is being challenged by a law- 28 India Post www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 Details on page25 yer who says a 1990s agree- ment allowing Trump to con- vert the Florida property into a business prohibits anyone Airbnb co-founder donates $25mn to from living there, including him. Attorney Reginald curb homelessness in San Francisco Stambaugh sent a letter this week to the Town of Palm SAN FRANCISCO: San Fran- Beach saying he represents a cisco Mayor London Breed has neighbor who doesn't want announced a $25 million dona- the president to take up resi- tion from Airbnb co-Founder dence at the 17-acre property Joe Gebbia to tackle because it would decrease the homelessness in the US city area's property values. and support families and indi- He also asserts that a micro- viduals facing economic hard- wave security barrier operated ship due to the raging Covid- by the Secret Service is harm- 19 pandemic. ing his client, who he says is The donation was made to exhibiting symptoms of micro- the 'Rising Up' campaign, a pub- wave exposure. He did not lic-private partnership launched give the client's name. by Breed with the goal of raising The president and first lady $35 million to reduce youth Melania Trump changed their le- homelessness in San Francisco gal residence from New York by 50 per cent by 2023. City to Palm Beach last year. To date the organization has Stambaugh says that violates the raised $17 million in private 1993 agreement between and public donations. Trump and the town that al- Gebbia's donation will help London Breed, Mayor of San Franscisco announces Airbnb co-founder Gebbia's $25M donation. (Photo/IANS) lowed him to turn Mar-a-Lago the organization get closer to from a private home into a club its $35 million funding goal and people out of homelessness is also the chief product officer Gebbia's donation will also that has 10 guest rooms for rent. directly support Rising Up's and change lives, but the City of Airbnb, said: "The Covid-19 amplify All Home's work at a The agreement says only partnership with Larkin Street can't do this alone," Xinhua pandemic has exacerbated the time when the San Francisco members can stay overnight Youth Services to cover rent news agency quoted Breed as needs of our communities and community needs it most. and for no more than 21 days subsidies, education and em- saying in her announcement it's incumbent on all of us to do As rent bills pile up, All per year, divided into three ployment services, and staff- on 16 December. our part to help. Home will launch a first of its one-week stays that cannot run ing to help young people ex- "We need the partnership of "I am proud to support the kind regional homelessness consecutively. periencing homelessness de- organizations like Larkin Street work Rising Up-Larkin Street prevention system to reduce The question is whether velop self-sufficiency. Youth and All Home, as well as Youth Services and All Home the number of people becom- Trump is a club member and "As we recover from this the support of our philanthropic are doing to improve the lives ing unsheltered in the Bay covered by those rules. pandemic, we have an oppor- community," she added. of so many during these diffi- Area, according to the an- In a statement, Gebbia, who cult times." nouncement. IANS Stambaugh believes he is and tunity to lift thousands of comments Trump's lawyer made in 1993 back that up. In order to avoid an embar- Will property prices crash in India due to the Coronavirus outbreak? rassing situation for everyone SUNITA MISHRA and to give the President time f a demand slowdown has pecting price appreciation 54th in the July-September that saw the weakest price to make other living arrange- been keeping price would be nothing but wishful period of 2020 against 47th growth, year-on-year. ments in the area, we trust you Igrowth in India's residen- thinking. rank in the same period last PropTiger.com numbers will work with his team to re- tial real estate market in Sample this. year, with a decline of 2.4% also indicate the nine major mind them of the agreement, check, the Coronavirus pan- On Knight Frank's global year-on-year in property residential markets in India Stambaugh wrote. demic, which threatens to house price index, which prices. Compared to the pre- registered only negligible Palm Beach has many lovely drastically impact global eco- tracks the movement in main- vious quarter, however, the price growth in the past half estates for sale and surely he nomic growth would wipe off stream residential prices country's the ranking re- a decade amid consumer can find one that meets his any chances of value appre- across 56 countries and terri- mained unchanged, at 54th. sentiment hitting a new low. needs. He did not immediately ciation in the property mar- tories worldwide, India The report points out that In- respond to a call and email ket. In the near future, ex- slipped seven spots to rank dia was among the countries Cont’d on page 25 seeking further comment. AP December 25, 2020 Real Estate Post India Post 29 www.indiapost.com

Griha pravesh tips for your new Will property prices crash in India due to the house, this festive season Coronavirus outbreak? PURNIMA GOSWAMI SHARMA Cont’d from page 24 ndians are generally particular about shubh decorated with auspicious symbols like a swastika and While there has not been any significant up- muhurats, when it comes to buying a property or Lakshmi feet, drawn on the threshold. A toran (origi- ward or downward movement in terms of pric- I shifting to a new house. They believe that perform- nating from the Sanskrit word 'torana', meaning the ing, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad's real estate ing a griha pravesh ceremony on an auspicious day sacred gateway), which is made of fresh mango leaves markets have seen some appreciation over time. will bring them good fortune. and marigold flowers, should be hung on the door- In the MMR, where property prices are already A griha pravesh ceremony is performed, when one way. The temple in the house should be in the north- much higher than the national average, price enters a new home for the first time. "It is important, not east zone and should be fixed on day of the house growth has been quite slow. Only the housing just for the owner but also for the entire family," says warming," advises Parmar. markets in the National Capital Region have un- Mumbai-based Jayshree Dhamani, a Vastu Shastra and The griha pravesh ceremony can be simple or elabo- dergone some correction. Elsewhere, the astrology expert. According to Vastu, a house is made up rate, depending upon the homeowner. Usually, a havan growth has been largely insignificant. of five elements - the sun, earth, water, fire and wind and is conducted, to purify the space cleanse it of negative According to a recently-unveiled report by the proper alignment of these elements in a house, forces. A Ganesh puja, Navagraha Shanti, which means international property consultancy Knight brings happiness, good health and prosperity. worship of the nine planets and a Vastu puja, are gener- Frank, the top six housing markets in India un- "It is believed that entering a home during an aus- ally performed. One should also serve food to the derwent a price correction in the range of 2%- picious time, makes life easy and there will be mini- priests and family and friends, who are invited on this 7% during the July-September period in 2020. mum struggle for the family, after moving into the day. Once the house warming ceremony has been per- A poll conducted by Reuters also shows aver- new house. Days that are most favorable for such formed, the owners can then move into the new house. age house price is expected to fall 6% this year and 3% in 2021. The poll, in which 15 analysts Tips for the Griha Pravesh participated between September 16-28,2020, a of your new home region-wise house prices decline of 7.5%, 7.0%, Always do the griha 5.0% and 3.5%was also predicted for Mumbai, pravesh on an auspicious Delhi, Chennai and Bengaluru, respectively. day. The idols should be As for the future, the effects of the pandemic, placed in an east-facing di- say some experts, would result in property rection of the house. prices dropping by at least 10%. Thoroughly clean the "Prices in most markets have held steady, house before the puja. Mop despite the lending and shadow banking crises. the floor with salt water, to They may come down by 10%-20% across ge- cleanse and purify the place. ographies, while land prices could see an even You can also wash it with a higher reduction of 30%," Pankaj Kapoor, chief mixture of salt, lime juice and executive of real estate consultancy firm Liases white vinegar. Foras was quoted as saying. While entering the house, According to HDFC chairman Deepak Parekh, always put your right foot developers should be prepared for up to a 20% first. fall in housing prices. muhurats are Vasant Panchami, Akshaya Tritiya, Gudi The main door should be decorated, as it is called Some, however, beg to differ from the likes Padwa, Dussehra (also known as Vijayadashmi), while as Simha Dwara and is the face of the Vastu Purush. of Kapoor and Parekh. This segment is of the days like Uttarayana, Holi, Adhikmas and Shraddha Decorate the door with mango leaves and fresh flow- opinion that those expecting any reduction in Paksha are to be avoided," adds Dhamani. ers. It should have a swastika, go-padma, lotus, or any property prices, in the medium to long term, A house warming performed on Dussehra does not other spiritual symbol at both the ends. might be disappointed as property values, if even require an auspicious time, as every moment of Adorn the floor with rangoli made of rice flour or anything, are likely to show an upward move- this day is considered auspicious. Before the griha vibrant colors. Rangolis on the floor are believed to ment in the post-Coronavirus world, based on pravesh, a kalash pooja is usually performed. invite goddesses Lakshmi. A havan (herbs and wood several factors. For this ritual, a copper pot is filled with water and put in fire) is said to purify the space and cleanse the Why property prices in India might not drop nine types of grains and a coin are placed in it. A coco- surroundings. If possible, have house warming parties after COVID-19? nut is placed on the pot and one enters the house with with only near and dear ones, as inviting too many The developer community in India has been it, accompanied by the chanting of mantras by a priest. people may bring in negative energy, which might in a tizzy after union minister of commerce and hamper the well-being of the residents. industry Piyush Goyal on June 3, 2020, said Dos and don'ts for performing a Griha Pravesh builders needed to sell housing projects at re- The griha pravesh should be done, only when the Things to do before a Griha Pravesh duced prices and let go of the high-priced un- new house is ready for the family to shift into it and Choose the auspicious date sold stock. In a terse message to the commu- reside. "The house should be fully done up. It should While the festive season brings many auspicious nity, the minister said the government might be freshly painted and the roof should be ready (if it is dates, which are suitable for a Griha Pravesh, you can offer some concession in circle rates, to lower an independent house). The doors, windows and other check the best house-warming dates 2020. Dussehra their burden but they must be more forthcom- fittings too, should be complete," says Nitien Parmar, and Diwali are considered very lucky for the Griha ing in reducing prices. www.housing.com a Vastu consultant of Vastu Plus. Pravesh and you can conduct a puja after consulting a "The Vastu Purush and other deities are wor- priest. www.housing.com For detailed story visit shipped. The main door, which is the entry point for For detailed story visit www.indiapost.com prosperity and good vibes into the house, has to be www.indiapost.com TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Taaron Ke Shehar: Taaron Ke Shehar Naach Meri Rani 30 India Post www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 2 Naach Meri Rani: 3 Teri Aankhon Mein: Teri Aankhon Mein 4 BurjKhalifa: Laxmii 5 Care Ni Karda: Chhalaang 6 Baby Girl: Baby Girl 7 Dil Chahte Ho: Dil Chahte Ho 8 BamBholle: Laxmii 9 Aabaad Barbaad : Ludo 10 Ae Mere Dil: Ae Mere Dil

hronicling the inspira tional journey of her up C coming sports drama 'Rashmi Rocket' and being active in sports from school days, actor Taapsee Pannu dropped a video to share her entire journey of transformation in achieving the perfect athletic body naturally. The actor also talked about her body transformation and said that she wanted to transform her body in a real believable way. Pannu's trainers also said that the actor has used all-natural supplements and homemade meals for the body transformation. The 'Naam Shabana' star captioned the video as, "Coz or- ollywood actor-producer Ajay Devgan has dinary people are meant to do purchased the Hindi remake rights of extra ordinary B 2019 Telugu crime comedy Brochevarevarura. things...(khudi ko kar Ajay will produce the Hindi remake. buland itana ki har ollywood GenNext star Sara Ali Trade analyst Ramesh Bala con- taqadeer se Khan is happy with the way her formed the news, tweeting: "Actor B pehle, khuda career is going. Ever since her de- @ajaydevgn has bought the Hindi bande se but in the 2018 release Kedarnath, remake rights of 2019's Telugu khud puchhe she has worked with bigwigs such crime comedy #Brochevarevarura. bata teree as Abhishek Kapoor, Rohit Shetty raza kya He will produce it with others and Imtiaz Ali, and she is all set to hai." starring in the remake." end the year 2020 with the David Di- The Telugu original was Dhawan directorial Coolie No. 1 op- rected by written and directed by posite Varun Dhawan. The film is a Akarsh Vivek Athreya. The film remake of 1995 hit of the same Khurana starred actors Sree Vishnu, name starring Govinda and Karisma and co- Nivetha Thomas, Nivetha Kapoor. produced Pethuraj, Satyadev "I feel lucky and privileged. I think films are a director's medium by Ronnie Kancharana, Priyadarshi and you are as good as your direc- Screwvala, Pullikonda and Rahul Neha tor, and I have luckily had the op- Ramakrishna in key roles. Anand, and portunity to work with extremely The Hindi remake backed by Pranjal versatile and amazing directors," Devgan will reportedly star Abhay Khandhdiya, the said Sara, daughter of Bollywood sports-drama that Deol and Karan Deol. It is not yet known stars Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh. chronicles the story of a whether Ajay Devgan will play a charac- The 25-year-old actress added: "I girl Rashmi and her journey ter in the film or not. will only say that I am thankful and from a tiny village to athletic Meanwhile, Devgan's upcoming film grateful. I hope I keep getting op- contests is expected to re- Maidaan will hit theatres on October 15, portunities to work with creative lease sometime in 2021. ANI 2021, on the occasion of Dussehra. IANS people like I have." IANS December 25, 2020 India Post 31 www.indiapost.com

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www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 Horoscope India Post 33 www.indiapost.com Your Weekly Future by VANEET SHARMA DEC 25TH to DEC 31ST 2020

MAR 21 to APRIL 20 JUN 21 to JULY 22 SEP 23 to OCT 22 DEC 22 to JAN 19

he initial three he planetary tran- his shall also be n the beginning of T days of the T sit indicates T one of the I the week you week are indicating that health problems brightest and luckiest shall be spending decent financial gains. shall get aggravated. weeks for you as your good time with your On 26th and 27th you In the mid of the week work and education family and the support might remain slightly disturbed how- that is after 26th December you shall shall be admired and appreciated for of your spouse shall help you improve the ever you shall feel better if you happen start getting favorable results in all ar- sure. In the beginning of the week some family atmosphere. The financial issues to go out on a journey. The day of 28th eas. Health shall get recovered fully. You good news about work progress and shall also get addressed properly. In spite and 29th are good for the restoration of might go on journey and social reputa- children's result shall pour in. Specula- of busy schedule because of some prob- your confidence and happiness. You shall tion and work position shall also improve tive activities shall prove fruitful. Love lems related to health and finance you look after your health and this is also a suddenly as the good news of your life shall be at its best. You shall enjoy shall not fail in maintaining the pace of great time to seek the blessings of your progress shall pour in. The financial prob- great conjugal compatibility with your progress at work. The social life and chil- mother. lems shall get rectified. partner. dren related plans shall be successful.

APRIL 21 to MAY 20 JULY 23 to AUG 22 OCT 23 to NOV 22 JAN 20 to FEB 19

he planetary tran his shall prove to be n the beginning of he planetary tran- T sit indicates T excellent for all areas I the week you T sit indicates that from the begin- of life specifically with shouldn't be taking that this is going to be ning of this week you the support of spouse, any important decision one of the best weeks shall be putting in lot friends, relatives, part- however after 25th of of the year for you. of efforts to do well at work place so that ners and your intelligence in handling December you can specifically make There shall be an atmosphere of celebra- you succeed in getting a solution for the administrative activities shall be appre- some plans regarding education, love tion everywhere you shall be going. The problems that are following you from a ciated and you would be pleased with the relationship, children and speculative family atmosphere shall be full of love, long time. You shall succeed in doing so beneficial results that you shall be get- activities. After the mid of the week you laughter, peace and happiness. Friends the only hitch is lack of focus therefore if ting for the tasks undertaken. The only is- shall do better in the field of competi- and relatives shall appreciate you for your you shall work with a focused approach sue can remain there that of health and tion. Health conditions shall remain av- achievements. You are going to get com- the success shall come easily as your ad- happiness on 26th and 27th of the week. erage in this week and there shall be plete favor of destiny and you can take versaries and competitors are already You are advised not to take any impor- betterment in marital bliss on the last any important decision regarding ar- not as competent as you are. tant decisions on these two days. two days of the week. rangement of funds.

MAY 21 to JUN 20 AUG 23 to SEP 22 NOV 23 to DEC 21 FEB 20 to MAR 20

his week shall be his week shall ou shall not be he beginning of T one of the T prove highly Y getting good T the week is not brightest weeks of this auspicious for all areas results in terms of good for your state of month for you as you of life specifically your health of family mem- mind therefore skip shall be getting suc- financial position shall bers and even there taking important deci- cess at every step in the beginning of remain perfect. If you wish to get rid of shall be lack of harmony among them in sions on initial three days of the week. the week. In the mid of the week your your mental tensions then don't keep the starting of the week however you shall From the late evening of 25th you shall work situation shall improve and you anything pending. Accomplish all tasks be putting lot of your energies to settle feel better and then you can think of shall be earning more gains with in- at right time and do not postpone any the issues. Up to a great extent you shall starting any important task. You shall be crease in income. Although there shall work but you are advised not to take be able to do justice in addressing these focused for your activities like education, remain ups and downs in financial mat- any important decision on 28th and matters. You shall be doing lot of planning love life, children's future. Stay away from ters but you shall remain satisfied with 29th of December as these two days to consolidate your resources of financial speculative activities. The last four days the inflow of money. Last two days are are not auspicious for your health and arrangement and your main focus shall be of the week are comparatively better for good for going on journeys. happiness. to create a strong source of income. your family life.

Kindly read the predictions from your ascendant sign. If you do not know your ascendant sign then read the VANEET same from Moon sign. If Moon sign is also not known then read it from the Zodiac sign. The ascendant sign which is SHARMA calculated from the birth details viz. date, month, year, time & place of birth gives 85 % accurate predictions. The 510-648-4899 accuracy of predictions from Moon sign get limited to only 50 %. The predictions from Zodiac sign are only 25 % “Felicitated and accurate. In nutshell the predictions from ascendant sign are most accurate. In getting personality analysis the traits honored by then President of India Shri given by ascendant sign are 100 % accurate and that is the essence of Vedic Astrology. Pranab Mukherjee" 34 India Post OP-ED December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com Philosophy

DEEPAK CHOPRA you. Isn't it written that someone will The Wall Street Journal and Rahul come to take away your sins? It may be ach man had picked up a stone, and time to believe it." Gandhi should apologize: VHP Ethey would have assaulted her The mob buzzed. "How can you claim to VINOD BANSAL then and there. Mary couldn't look at be the messiah?" the elder said suspiciously. youth organization! National Spokesperson The VHP Secretary General also them; she sank down on the ground, "What did you expect, a giant who Vishva Hindu Parishad numb and shivering. comes down on a chariot of fire?" said asked the Wall Street Journal to apolo- "What are you doing brothers?" Jesus. "So did I, once." he Vishva Hindu Parishad gize for its false reporting. He said that Heads turned and Mary couldn't help Mary stared at him with the same be- Ttoday said that Rahul Gandhi's con- the WSJ tried to target and discredit but look up. The sight of Jesus brought no wilderment Judas had. She tried to pull spiracy to defame Bajrang Dal, under Bharat under the pretext of maligning flicker of recognition in her. away. Jesus whispered in her ear. "You cover of false accusations published in Bajrang Dal, is totally unacceptable. "We're exacting justice," an elder told wanted to possess me with your love. the Wall Street Journal, has exposed his He said that the earlier media re- the stranger. Don't you remember?" She began to mind set. VHP Secretary General Shri ports, quoted from the Wiki-Leaks, "Why?" tremble. Milind Parande today said that a na- make it clear that Mrs Sonia Gandhi had "She was found committing adultery. "What are you to this whore?" the elder tionalist organization like the Bajrang also been hatching quite a lot of con- Her sin was still warm on her flesh." The el- demanded. "She has a husband. She Dal is evidently poking in the eyes of spiracies to ban the Bajrang Dal, but she der eyed Jesus warily. greatly offended him." Rahul Gandhi, who has proactively could not succeed. Incidentally, the "The rabbi gave us permission" some- "I am her soul's husband and I am been standing by and standing up with Face-book has clarified that there is no one shouted from the crowd which was a never offended," said Jesus. lots of anti-national elements, including reason to block Bajrang Dal on lie in hopes of making the stranger think Leading Mary through the crowd, Jesus the pro-China and pro-Pakistan Tukde- Facebook. This reflects their hostile anti- twice. looked right and left. "I bring good news Tukde gang, the anti-CAA hordes and Hindu mindset. Sri Parande said that "But the rabbi isn't here" Jesus pointed from God, enough to fill the world. First I hooligans and the Delhi rioters advo- now Rahul Gandhi and the Wall Street out. He kept his gaze on the men and away must take this woman to be purified." cating their unconstitutional and anti- Journal should apologize to the Bajrang from Mary. "Why is that?" Mary was in a daze, aware only that national stances. His affiliation and rap- Dal and the Hindu society that forms 1/ port with China is well known. He 6th of the global population. would believe in an American newspa- Disclaimer: Views expressed are 'Let one without sin per but, not in a Pan-Bharat nationalist personal to the author cast the first stone' Pakistan should be compelled to apologize "What did you expect, a giant to Bangladesh for 1971 genocide who comes down on a chariot of FARABI BIN ZAHIR fire?" said Jesus or India, April 13, 1919, is a scan tant Indian festival of Vaisakhi. Jesus Christ dalous day in the history of Brit Colonel Reginald Dyer besieged Fish imperialism. A British army of- Jallianwala Bagh with Sikh, Rajput, When nobody answered, Jesus said they were not being followed. A few min- ficer had ordered the firing on unarmed Gorkha, and Baloch army troops and "Could it be because killing is also a sin? I utes later she passed Jacob the weaver's protesters in Amritsar, Punjab. The inci- they blocked all the entrances. Then he am among Jews, aren't I?" house which was shuttered and bolted. dent killed many people, which is ordered indiscriminate firing on the "Go away. We're in the right" someone Jesus saw her eyeing it. known as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. crowd that included women and chil- else called out. He said "Leave that life behind. The Historically, Amritsar is a holy city of dren, without warning anyone and with- "If you are, let me find you a bigger Lord has prepared the way before me." the Sikh community. The Golden Temple out giving them a chance to flee. stone." Jesus reached down and picked up This wasn't enough to calm her heart, of the Sikhs is located here not far from Sergeant William Anderson served a jagged rock twice as large as his hand. and soon they were away from the town. Jallianwala Bagh. under Brigadier Dyer. Later, he wrote "As long as one of you is without sin let A stream ran by the side of the road; she about the incident, "When the shooting him cast the first stone. He has nothing to could wash away the dust and tears from Jallianwala Bagh massacre began, people started lying on the fear from the Father. Our God only pun- her face. When she knelt by the water and In 1919, the city was in the midst of a ground. By climbing high walls, some ishes the guilty." splashed her face, more than dust and bitter dispute between Indian Indepen- tried to flee. I was not afraid of them He held the rock up. "Well?" tears came away. Around her reflection dence leaders and the British rulers. threatening us." The men glanced at each other ner- shone brilliance like the sun at noon, and Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer, a se- There are numerous claims about the vously. Jesus dropped the stone from his Jesus's hand was poised over her. nior British army officer, was informed number of people in Jallianwala Bagh hand; it clattered loudly on the pile that Excerpted from the novel 'Jesus' on April 13 that people were gathering that day. Later, the British government had been gathered for the execution. in Jallianwala Bagh to protest. He headed conducted an inquiry into the killings "I will make a bargain with you," Jesus there immediately with a squad of sol- and prepared a report that placed the 50 SPIRITUAL APPETIZERS said. He walked over and stooped down diers to deal with the situation. Not only death toll at 379. However, in India's in- Vinod Dhawan taking Mary by the hand. He lifted her to that, he promptly forbade any kind of as- vestigation, the figure was around her feet. "This woman will sin no more. If “It’s a lovely book. It feels en- sembly in the city. However, many people 1,000. It is worth mentioning that in any of you see even the slightest blemish ergetically clear and light. It’s were not aware of this decision and they protest against this massacre of inno- in her from this day on, I will come and easy to read, dip in and out and came to Jallianwala Bagh on that day to cent people, Rabindranath Tagore, the most importantly it offers infor- lead the punishment." join the protest against the deportation of great Indian poet and philosopher, re- mation without fluff! Blessings Shame had replaced much of the mob's two freedom fighters, Satyapal and linquished his knighthood awarded by anger but there were mutters now. "You on this project.” Jac O’Keeffe Saifuddin Kitchlew. Several Sikh pilgrims the British government. South Asia can't promise such a thing," the elder de- Spirituality teacher based in were also present to celebrate the impor- Monitor clared. USA. "I promise it not only for her but all of Available on AMAZON, FLIPKART Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author December 25, 2020 OP-ED India Post 35 www.indiapost.com Biden's Asia policy: Will India be able to cultivate its proximity with Washington? AMB AMIT DASGUPTA (RETD) oe Biden will be the 46th Biden presidency. fractured and has lost faith in US president. But his com itself. A prevailing sense of Jing four years in office are A divided America hate, fear, and gloom appears likely to be turbulent. No Despite confirmation of to have enveloped Americans. former US president has faced Biden's victory by the Electoral According to a study, 66 per- INVEST IN INDIA such a situation. That, in itself, College, allegations of elec- cent of Americans believe the overnment of India's economic policy saw FII inflows of would be a major part of toral fraud are not likely to US is in decline; 82 percent of G$21 bn this year as a result of right set of monetary and Biden's legacy. cease but they are the least of Biden supporters believe liquidity infusion by Reserve Bank of India. Demand also saw a Trump is taking the US to a dic- stronger than expected increase despite the Pandemic. The tatorship; while 92 percent of sensex hit a new high crossing 47k for the first time last week. Trump voters believe Biden These factors are mainly due to announcement of vaccine glo- will convert the US into a so- bally, coupled with easing of interest rate and the decreasing cialist and left-leaning country. mortality rate of Covid19. American columnist David Several investors including global leaders like Vedanta Group Brooks believes there is a politi- Chairman, Agarwal, who is planning to invest US $ 10bn, in part- cal and cultural-divide civil war nership with London-based Centricus Asset Management, in confronting America. Winning India. His major USP has been turn around of loss-making Public the trust of all Americans would Sector Units into Private-Sector Companies. In retail sector Mu- be his biggest challenge. This tual Funds are also showing signs of maturity. Most of them re- explains why, starting from his invested into short-term debt funds, which are comparatively victory speech, Biden repeat- less volatile than equities. Government is also considering all edly emphasized that he and options including setting up of a 'bad-bank', to help nurse the his Administration would work health of banking sector, said Mr. Tarun Bajaj, DEA, Secretary at a for all Americans. Inclusiveness recent panel discussion held at CII partnership summit. The would be the defining charac- idea of setting up of bad-bank is to buy back bad loans of a An array of domestic issues Biden's worries. The courts teristic of his presidency. For bank or financial entity by helping them clean up their balance and serious external chal- have already rejected allega- this to genuinely happen, Biden sheet and get on with the task of lending. lenges will preoccupy the tions by Trump and his support- needs to emerge as the great Other areas the Indian government needs reform urgently Biden Administration along- ers that the elections were 'far- healer, who touches hearts and is to exit from competing with private industry like hotels, air- side a strident and combative cical,' 'rigged' or 'stolen'. Inter- minds across the US. lines, retail industry and several Small and Medium industries. predecessor, who has the time, estingly, Rudi Giuliani, Trump's This is easier said than done. Why is once profit making Air India in deep red today? It is all the energy, the money and, personal attorney, went a dra- For Trump, nothing would be due to mismanagement by the government. How can a pri- more importantly, the support matic step further alleging a off the table and his singular vately owned entity compete with government that can in- of around 74 million Ameri- George Soros-Venezuelan con- focus would be to discredit fuse unlimited public funds? Be it banking or other industries cans. This is, assuredly, a com- spiracy to tamper with election Biden and his Administration, mentioned above. A Government's main job must be left to plex and divisive terrain to software and thereby hand the even if this means launching administer and introduce policies to generate growth that navigate. election to Biden. personal attacks. Biden is also create jobs and development. An excellent example being To Biden's credit, he has, so Biden is aware that Trump aware that there are deep mis- the new farm policy the government took with bold initiatives far, maintained his composure continues to enjoy the support giving and distrust among cutting across all political adversaries. This is the best thing and refrained from being of those who voted for him, in- Trump's supporters, as to what India has done since its Independence. Biden stands for and this is Farmers are being misled by vested interest for the last 70 To Biden's credit, he has, so far, maintained precisely what Trump would years by successive governments. Now, finally they have a chance exploit to his advantage. his composure and refrained from being drawn to better their livelihood and may be double their income. Natu- The real problem that rally the middleman and vested groups do not want this to hap- into a slugfest with President Donald Trump. Biden faces is that Trump and pen, as one can see from the protest across India. The danger, if He has focused on the job at hand and his supporters genuinely be- the government backs down in implementing the new farm carefully gone about picking his cabinet lieve that Biden and the policy, it could push India back by 30 years. India's GDP growth Democrats are misleading will mainly depend on increasing farm income and moderniza- colleagues and key advisors Americans. Trump's support- tion, as 60% of India's work force lives in rural areas and mainly ers endorse Trump's anti-im- consists of subsistence farmers. Government must work hard to drawn into a slugfest with cluding evangelicals, who migrant views to make Ameri- ensure this golden opportunity is not lost. President Donald Trump. He firmly believe he is chosen by can great again. Building a Government policies on skill development too need a com- has focused on the job at hand God to lead America. For them, wall to keep Mexicans out, an plete revamp. Its attempts to promote and improve work and carefully gone about pick- his departure from the White expanded role for homeland force skilling, has not shown any major improvement as ing his cabinet colleagues and House is the result of a sinister security, tighter immigration claimed by the authorities. This again is a key area requiring key advisors. But, he is also and deep-rooted satanic con- policies, including on H1B vi- serious intervention,to infuse growth and provide much acutely mindful that Trump is spiracy. sas, are all part of this grand needed quality skill force for the industry. It could consider the last person to simply fade Biden knows that what he scheme. South Asia Monitor introducing skill-training starting from school level and make away and would do everything faces are sharply divided For detailed story visit it mandatory for every graduating student to train in at least in his power to discredit the Americans in a nation that is www.indiapost.com one of the skills the country needs. That could well be the Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author major game changer for India. 36 India Post December 25, 2020 www.indiapost.com December 25, 2020 India Post 37 www.indiapost.com