VOL 12 ISSUE 09 ● NEW YORK ● MARCH 09 - MARCH 15, 2018 ● ENQUIRIES: 646-247-9458 www.theindianpanorama.news Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announces $170 Million for TRUMP AGREES TO MEET women's empowerment NORTH KOREA’S KIM WASHINGTON (TIP): US President Donald Trump has agreed to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un by May, a top South Korean official announced on Friday, March 9, even as the White House said the two leaders would meet "at a place and time to be determined". South Korean National Bill Gates and Melinda Gates are for women empowerment Security Adviser Chung WASHINGTON (TIP): On the eve of International Women's Eui-Yong, who led his Day, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has announced a country's delegation to USD 170 million project aimed at advancing women's economic Pyongyang for talks with empowerment in four countries, including in India. Announced the North Korean leaders, on Tuesday, March 6, the investments focused in India, Kenya, made the announcement Tanzania and Uganda will target four key priorities - advancing at the White House hours contd on page 32 contd on page 32 U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Trump announces new trade tariff plans, Faces US NAVY VETERAN PLEADS GUILTY TO KILLING Opposition within and without INDIAN TECHIE IN KANSAS

WASHINGTON (TIP): WASHINGTON (TIP): A US Navy veteran, Republicans on Capitol Hill on March 7, pleaded guilty to the murder of reacted angrily to President Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla in a Donald Trump's racially motivated hate crime at a bar in Kansas announcement Thursday, City last year that raised fears of growing March 8, that he is going intolerance in America following President forward with new tariffs on Donald Trump's tough rhetoric on steel and aluminum, immigration. arguing that the move will Adam Purinton, 52, pleaded guilty before a harm the economy and that Kansas court. He was charged with first-degree it threatens to start a murder of Kuchibhotla, 32, and two counts of broader trade war. And attempted first-degree murder in the shootings while there are limits to of his friend, Alok Madasani, and a bystander, what they can do to stop it, who chased Purinton after he fled the Austin's President Trump approves steel and aluminum tariffs, 'defending members are contemplating Bar and Grill in Olathe city on February 22 last Engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla was gunned America's national security' contd on page 32 year. contd on page 32 down last year Former Nassau County Executive Mangano’s Trial to begin on schedule CENTRAL ISLIP, NY (TIP): Newsday reported March 8 that despite a late turnover of text messages recovered from the star witness against former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and former Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto, a federal judge said Thursday, March 8, the corruption trial is on schedule to begin Former Nassau County next week. Jury selection will take a day to complete on Monday and Executive Ed Mangano opening statements will be Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Joan Azrack goes on trial on March 12 said. contd on page 32

104-02, 120th Street, S. Richmond Hill, NY 11419 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 2 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 NEW YORK 3 THE INDIAN PANORAMA HOSTS A LUNCH TO CELEBRATE HOLI Ambassador Sandeep Chakraborty, wife Taruna Chakraborty graced the event as guests of honor Councilmember Paul Vallone joined with wife Anna Marie Vallone

NEW YORK CITY (TIP): The Indian patronize Air India which she claimed offered Panorama, the leading Indian American the best services comparable with any airline. English weekly newspaper on the East Coast Prof. Indrajit S Saluja, editor / publisher of hosted a lunch to celebrate the Indian festival The Indian Panorama, who hosted the event of colors-Holi, on March 4 at Zaika extended a word of welcome and proposed Restaurant located on 44th Street between 2nd toast to the festival of Holi, the guests present, and 3rd Avenue, New York City. particularly to the two year old Aleesha The guests were received in a traditional Ananya, niece to Vandana Sharma, Ashishpal Holi style with a tilak (mark) of gulal (color) Saluja, Prof. Saluja's eldest son who turned on the forehead. forty,to Resham Sharma, his foster sister, and Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador to Zaika and its partners Mandeep Oberoi, Sandeep Chakraborty described Holi as one of Mohan Ahluwalia, Ramanuj and Pooja Patel. the most popular festivals of India, next to The event was graced by Ambassador Diwali. In a lighter vein he observed that Sandeep Chakraborty, Consul General of while in India celebration of festivals like India, and wife Dr. Taruna Chakraborty as Holi and Diwali is a matter of half a day or a guests of honor. Councilmember Paul day, in USA, a celebration span is days Vallone, who represents 19th District of the together. New York City Council, which incidentally, Ambassador Sandeep Chakraborty extending Holi greetings Councilmember Paul Vallone offered to has a large presence of Indian Americans, Photo/ Jay Mandal on assignment have the festival of Holi celebrated in his attended with wife Anna Marie Vallone. district. He praised the Indian American Present on the occasion were guests from community for their contribution to America all walks of life. They included officials from in a number of ways. He said there was a Indian Consulate, Permanent Mission of large presence of Indian American India, various government of India community in his district and he loved to enterprises, including Air India and banks, meet with them. officials of various organizations, physicians Air India General Manager Vandana and surgeons, professionals from IT and Sharma promptly offered Air India's finance industry, businessmen and sponsorship for such an event. She also spoke businesswomen, film makers, artists, and of Air India as the airline of Indians and journalists. exhorted the Indian American community to contd on page 21

Councilmember Paul Vallone offered to host next Holi in his district Photo/ Nisha

Air India Regional Manager Vandana Sharma exhorted the Indian American community to patronize Air India Photo / courtesy Davinderpal

Prof. Indrajit S Saluja extended a word of welcome Photo/ Nisha Ashok Vyas reciting his poem, much to the delight of the gathering. Photo/ Nisha THE INDIAN PANORAMA 4 INDIANS ABROAD FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 Indian American Aruna Miller wins

INDIAN AMERICANS MAKE IT Maryland 6th district straw poll TO THE FORBES BILLIONAIRES LIST MARYLAND (TIP): Maryland from individuals and it has "far outpaced Democrat Aruna Miller, who is running for her rivals in both the number of NEW YORK(TIP): Rakesh Gangwal, is Congress from the state's open 6th district, contributions (1,723) and individual donors the richest Indian American. The won a straw poll held after the "Our (1,402)." cofounder of India's budget airline Indigo is Revolution" candidate forum on March 3. "By comparison, in 2017, the other six worth $3.3 billion, according to Forbes' Miller, a Maryland statehouse delegate, Democrats in the CD6 race as a group only latest list of The World's Billionaires, which thanked the party faithful who attended had raised approximately $600,000 in was released on March 6. Information the forum. "It's exciting to see so many donations from 500 individual supporters technology entrepreneur and people come out on a Saturday (March 3) and political action committees," the philanthropist Romesh T. Wadhwani, who afternoon to hear from candidates running campaign said. led the list last year, is the second richest in a Congressional primary," she said. "It's "Our campaign is continuing to gain Indian American, with a net worth of $3.1 even more exciting to see that our message momentum and strong support," Miller billion. is resonating with these engaged voters." said. "While the million-dollar milestone is The latest Forbes list, which has record "After a vigorous 3-hour debate notable, l am most excited about taking my 2,208 members, has two new Indian involving six candidates, Delegate Miller issue-oriented message directly to the American billionaires: Niraj Shah, CEO won the post-debate straw poll," the voters when the Maryland legislative and cofounder of e-commerce company campaign said in a press release on March session ends next month." Wayfair; and Arista Networks CEO 6. The campaign also cited a series of high- Jayshree Ullal. According to Forbes, the 44- The campaign also announced reaching profile endorsement it received. Among the year-old Shah, a second generation Indian the $1 million donations.It said the $1 Democrats who endorsed Miller are American based in Boston, is worth $1.6 million mark was reached as of February Montgomery County Executive lke Leggett, billion. Ullal, who was born in London and 28, 2018. former Maryland Democratic Party Chair raised in Delhi, is worth $1.3 billion. The Miller campaign said more than 97 Terry Lierman and Maryland House Other Indian Americans billionaires are percent of the contributions have come Speaker Michael Busch. venture capitalist Vinod Khosla (who is Aruna Miller won the post-debate straw poll worth $2.3 billion); venture capitalist and Google investor Kavitark Ram Shriram ($2.1 billion); Vista Equity Partners Indian American Sri Preston Justice prevails for the Indian Origin cofounder Brian Sheth ($2 billion); pharmaceutical executive John Kapoor Kulkarni finishes first in Texas 22nd group killed in the UK road crash last ($1.8 billion); software executive and investor Aneel Bhusri ($1.6 billion); and district year Syntel cofounder Bharat Desai ($1.1 HOUSTON, TX LONDON (TIP): Two billion). (TIP): Indian American truck drivershave been The wealth of Gangwal, who owns more Sri Preston Kulkarni accused and one was than a third of IndiGo, increased by a finished first in the found guilty of causing whopping $1.2 billion in the past year. Democratic primary in the death of eight Indians Sheth, the youngest Indian American Texas' 22nd in one of Britain's worst billionaire at 42, saw his wealth go up by congressional district road accidents last year. $900 million, while Khosla's net worth with nearly 32 percent of The victims from increased by $700 million. The net worth of the vote. Nottingham's Malayali Wadhwani, Shriram, Kapoor and Desai He will now have to community and their increased by $100 million each in the past 12 face fellow Democrat relatives named as months. The combined net worth of Indian Letitia Plummer in the Panneerselvam American billionaires is $20.2 billion. May 22 runoff to earn Annamalai, Rishi The richest South Asian American is the right to take on the Ranjeev Kumar, Vivek Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shahid Khan, incumbent GOP Rep. Baskaran, who has a net worth of $7.2 billion. Pete Olson. Lavanyalakshmi Seetharaman, Karthikeyan Pugalur Sri Preston Kulkarni will now have to face According to Texas Ramasubramanian, Subramaniyan Arachelvan and Tamilmani INDIAN ORIGIN FAMILY fellow Democrat Letitia Plummer in the election law, if a Arachelvan were on their way to London to catch a bus to Disneyland in PROHIBITED FROM FLYING May 22 runoff candidate doesn't get Paris. Among them were IT professionals employed by software major BABY TO INDIA FOR GENITAL more than 50 percent of Wipro. MUTILATION PROCEDURE the votes, there will be a runoff between the top two finishers. Ryszard Masierak, a 31-year-old Polish national, was convicted at the With all the 129 precincts reporting, Kulkarni received 9,466 end of a trial at Reading Crown Court. The jury heard that he was two votes, while Plummer got 7,230 votes (24.3 percent). Mark Gibson, times over the legal drink-drive limit and had stopped in the inside lane the Democratic nominee in 2016, finished last in a field of five, with of the highway when he was involved in the crash with a minibus and 3,046 votes (10.2 percent). The other two candidates in the race, another truck near Newport Pagnell in southern England on August 26. Steve Brown and Margarita Johnson, received 6,246 (21 percent) and He had denied the charges of causing the deaths of Nottingham-based 3,767 (12.7 percent) votes, respectively. Keralite minibus driver Cyriac Joseph and seven of his passengers- all Olson, who has been representing the district since 2009, was the Indians. MANCHESTER, UK (TIP): A UK court winner of the Republican primary, trouncing his nearest rival by The 52-year-old had been hired to drive his passengers from has prohibited an Indian origin family from nearly 65 percentage points. Nottingham to London to join a European holiday tour group when they flying their baby daughter to India because Kulkarni, a former US diplomat who served in Iraq and Russia, met with the fatal accident. she is at risk of being subjected to an among other places, had expressed cautious optimism ahead of the The jury is yet to pronounce its verdict on David Wagstaff, a 53-year-old "utterly unacceptable" genital mutilation primaries. British citizen who was driving the second truck involved in the collision, procedure. A judge at Manchester County But his acknowledgement, two weeks before the election, that he and will continue deliberations on March 7. and Family Court ruled that the child, who was arrested at the age of 18, in 1997, for possessing less than a However, it reached a unanimous verdict on the guilt of Masierak, who will turn two this year, is at risk because gram of cocaine may have denied Kulkarni outright victory on was also convicted of four counts of causing serious injury by dangerous religious and cultural pressure had March 6th night. driving, in relation to injuring four other passengers including a four- overridden her mother's "maternal The charges were dropped after a two-year probation - which is year-old girl orphaned by the crash. instinct". usual for first-time drug offenders. The trial was told that a drunk Masierak had stopped for 12 minutes in Social workers in the UK believe three Acknowledging the incident, the candidate said it was due to the slow lane of the highway just before the crash. His truck caused an other girls from the family,which cannot be youthful indiscretion and he did it at a time when his father was obstruction on the motorway forcing others to slow down before moving named for legal reasons, had been subjected terminally ill and he was going to through a difficult time. around him. to a similar procedure. Female genital "We should not be stigmatizing our youth for the rest of their As Joseph waited with his hazard lights on for a chance to go around mutilation (FGM), also known as female lives," Kulkarni said. the heavy goods vehicle (HGV), a second truck driven by Wagstaff circumcision, involves ritual intimate His father Venkatesh Kulkarni, a professor and novelist, died in smashed into the back of the van, forcing it to crash into and then go cutting, sometimes without an anesthetic, 1998 after battling leukemia for a year. His mother Margaret under Masierak's truck, the court was told. and has been banned in the UK. Preston Kulkarni is from West Virginia. "In Mr Wagstaff's case, on a hands-free call, his lorry on cruise control Judge Robert Jordan made an "FGM If elected, the biracial Kulkarni will become the first Indian and he on auto-pilot, completely failing to notice what was ahead of him protection order" in Manchester after a American congressman from the state of Texas. in full view for some time, inattention on a gross scale," said Prosecutor private family court hearing, 'Manchester He is one of the nearly two-dozen Indian Americans who are Oliver Saxby. Evening News' reported. (Read full story running for Congress this year. The sentencing in the case will take place after the jury has decided on on www.theindianpanorama.news) both accused. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 5 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 6 NEW YORK FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 AAPI to donate funds towards Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of America

CHICAGO,IL (TIP): "American The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, a 501- Association of Physicians of Indian Origin charitable organization, founded in 1949, is the (AAPI), the most dynamic and ethnic world's largest voluntary health organization organization representing more than 100,000 dedicated to funding blood cancer research, physicians of Indian origin, while officially education and patient services. launching a campaign against Leukemia and The Governing Body meeting in san Lymphomas, is donating a large sum of money Francisco from March 9th to 11th will be to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of composed of the Executive Committee, America on March 10th during the annual Members of the Board of Trustees, Chairs of AAPI Spring Governing Body meeting at the all the Standing Committees, Chair of the Freemont Marriott Silicon Valley, Fremont, Convention Committee as defined in Section CA," declared Dr. Gautam Samadder, President 4.3 and the Presidents of all dues paid/paying of AAPI. member organizations. "Continuing with supporting noble causes, "Coming from a nation that has given much AAPI, the largest ethnic association to the world, today physicians of Indian origin representing the physicians of Indian origin have become a powerful influence in medicine in the USA, has taken on yet another cause to across the world. Nowhere is their authority promote through its active support in more keenly felt than in the United States, educating people about the deadly disease where Indians make up the largest non- around the world," Dr. Vinod Shah, a past Caucasian segment of the American medical president of AAPI, and a well-known community," Dr. Samadder said. "The philanthropist, said. Dr. Shah has agreed to overrepresentation of Indians in the field of match the money being provided by AAPI, medicine is striking - in practical terms, one thus doubling the donation through AAPI at out of seven doctors in the United States is of this special event. Indian Heritage. We provide medical care to "Manushi Chillar Miss World 2017, will be over 40 million of US population, caring for present at the ceremony, during which AAPI one in every seven patients in the nation. will hand over the check to representatives There are 150 AAPI Chapters across the nation from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Manushi Chillar Miss World 2017 and it has an ever-growing membership of America," Dr. Naresh Parikh, President-Elect to be AAPI's Brand Ambassador Indian American Physicians," he reported. of AAPI, said. "Manushi, hailing from a family for Campaign Against Leukemia AAPI is an umbrella organization of doctors and scientists, an aspiring & Lymphoma representing dozens of local chapters, gynecologist and cardiac surgeon Manushi specialty societies and alumni organizations. Chillar has agreed to be the Brand the competition. "I am blessed to have got this awareness about menstrual and feminine Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, AAPI Ambassador of AAPI for creating awareness opportunity, and I want to give my best. I have hygiene through her pet project 'Shakti'. She represents the interests of over nearly 100,000 about the deadly diseases, Leukemia and decided to take a year's break from my medical has been emphasizing on the need for physicians, medical students and residents of Lymphoma." studies and my college is very supportive," educating the rural mass on the issue and has Indian heritage in the United States. It is the The beauty queen believes that being says Chillar. been a passionate advocate on why it is largest ethnic medical organization in the brought up in Delhi, has given her the These days, Chillar is even seen showing her important for a woman to use a sanitary nation. For more details, please visit: confidence and power to fight all odds and win full support and involvement in spreading napkin. www.aapiusa.org IALI Celebrates Rang Birangi Holi-the festival of colors in traditional style

HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): India Association with Spring Crops, end of winter, and for many and asumptuous buffet. renowned artists likeMrs. Anuradha Khanna, of Long Island (IALI) celebrated Holi at Cotillion a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, The program started by the Women's Forum Mrs. Jyoti Gupta, Mr. Amit Malhotraand DJ Restaurant onFriday March 2, 2018. This Holi forget and forgive, and repair broken Chair Mrs. Veena Lamba introducing her team Royal. A beautiful colorful traditional Ghoomar function was organized by the IALI's Women's relationships. and was followed by President Mrs. Gunjan dance was performed by 'Ghoomar Divas'by Mrs. Forum group which is chaired by Mrs. Veena The event which had an overwhelming Rastogi's speech on Holi celebration. They Neelam Modi and her team. The cultural Lamba, Co-Chaired by Mrs. Lalita Mansukhani turnout in-spite of a nasty Nor'easter winter together emceed the program with entertaining program concluded with aspecial surprise Holi and Mrs. Shalini Pawa and Committee members storm -was celebrated in a very traditional style, introductions to program with kavita and sher-o- dance performance by current President Mrs. Ms. Rizwana Malik, Mrs Rachna Shahdadpuri with lots of fun and gaiety. The guests shayari. Gunjan Rastogi which was receivedwith and Mrs. Ravi Kanta Dutta. arriveddressed in traditional colorful clothing A wonderful cultural program was presented athunderous applause. All guests enjoyed Holi is the festival of Colors.It signifies the and were welcomed with Gulal Teeka, offering of for this special day of festival of colors,singing of dancing to the Holi and popular songs spun by victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring Jalebies and Gunjias, followed by Thandai drink Rajasthani and Bollywood Holi songsby many DJ Royal. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 NEW YORK 7 Dr. Jagdish Gupta-led new Executive Committee 2018 of AAPI-QLI inaugurated LONG ISLAND (TIP): During a solemn ceremony that was attended by over 250 physicians and community leaders, Dr. Jagdish Gupta and his new executive committee members assumed charge of AAPIQLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of Queens and Long Island) at the popular Akbar Restaurant in Garden City, Long Island, NY on February 9th. Dr. Ajay K. Lodha, past President of AAPI- QLI and national AAPI, was elected unanimously as the Chair, BOT of AAPIQLI in a subsequent meeting on Feb. 16th,2018. Dr. Lodha assumed charge as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the inaugural event. Dr. Lodha called upon the AAPI members to "stand united, in order to be able to fight for our rights," while pointing to the fact that Indian American Physicians service every 7th patient in the nation and contribute Governor's PR Fund: from left to right Dr. Raj Bhayani (Vice President), Dr. Himanshu Pandya immensely to the healthcare industry in the (President-Elect), Dr. Tarun Wasil (past Chairman BOT), Dr. Rakesh Dua (Outgoing President) nation. Dr. Abhay Malhotra(Secretary), Hersh K Parekh Esq (Queens Regional Representative of As the participants at the event cheered, the Governor Cuomo), Dr. Jagdish K Gupta (New President), Dr. Ajay K. Lodha (Chairman BOT) Inaugural address by Dr. Jagdish K Gupta Dr. Mohinder Gupta (Chairman Philanthropy) (President AAPIQLI) outgoing President of AAPI-QLI, Dr. Rakesh Dua, whose term ended after serving as the association through a memorable and eventful year, passed on the gavel to Dr. Jagdish K Gupta, a practicing Gastroenterologist, serving the community for over 40 years. Along with Dr. Gupta, other members of the Executive Committee 2018, were administered the oath of office included, Dr. Himanshu Pandya, President Elect; Dr. Raj Bhayani, Vice President; Dr. Abhay Malhotra, Secretary; and Dr.Vinod Jayam, Treasurer. Ten prominent physicians were inducted as Members at Large of the Governing Body. The Organization is ably guided by 15 members, constituting Board of Trustees and Five Advisory Board Members from the community. Dr. Jagdish K Gupta (Current President), Dr. Ajay K In his inaugural address as the incoming Dr. Jagdish K Gupta (President AAPIQLI) 5th from Left, Dr. Ajay K. Lodha (Chairman of Lodha (Current Chairman BOT), Dr. Tarun Wasil (Past President, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, President-Elect Board) 3rd from right. Chairman of BOT) of AAPI QLI, announced the exciting new Vajinath Chakote, Chairman of the was well accepted by all other local and Puerto Rico Relief and Rebuilding Fund to programs for the members in the year 2018 Nominating & Election Committee, declared national professional organizations. From the alleviate devastation caused by Hurricane under his new leadership. "We want to the results of 23rd AAPI-QLI Executive very beginning the leadership put heavy Maria, International Nutrition Network (INN) continue to be the most vibrant, Committee for 2018. emphasis on transparency and the democratic which serves free meals and operates 10 Soup transformative and politically active Chapter The Mission of AAPI Queens and Long process, which is the main ingredient for its Kitchens in 14 location across Long Island, among all AAPI chapters in the nation," he Island has been to represent the interests of all enormous success. AAPI of Queens and Long ROTACARE which provides free medical, said. physicians of Indian Origin in the area Island currently represents 660 active dental, pharmacy and other behavioral health AAPIQLI, one of the largest chapter of including providing Continuous Medical physicians and donates more than $60,000 services to low income people, Sankara National AAPI, has been serving 800 members Education (CME) and engaging in charitable annually for charitable purposes. It is also one Nethralaya & Eye Foundation, providing physicians since 1995, providing continuing activities for the benefit of our community at of the largest chapters of National AAPI. world class free tertiary eye care and helping medical education, and discussing the state of large. Since its inception there was a strong During the colorful event, AAPI-QLI eradicate blindness in India and many other the art topics in healthcare, wealth alliance with and support from National AAPI. pledged to donate funds to several community cultural and religious community management and practice management. Dr AAPI QLI grew rapidly in membership and Organizations, including Governor Cuomo Organization. Dromm, Asian American Service Providers and Advocates Host 8th Air India announces Annual Lunar New Year Celebration in Elmhurst, Queens flights to Israel over

ELMHURST NY (TIP): NYC Council honored tradition in Elmhurst," said NYC Saudi Arabia Member Daniel Dromm and co-sponsors Council Member Daniel Dromm (D- EmblemHealth, MetroPlus and the Coalition Elmhurst, Jackson Heights). "For Chinese, for Chinese Children and Families (CACF) Korean and Vietnamese people around the ushered in the Year of the Dog at the 8th world, Lunar New Year is a time for friends, Annual Lunar New Year celebration at St. family and celebration. As a Council James's Episcopal Church, Elmhurst. The Member representing one of the largest and event featured a Chinese calligraphy most diverse Asian American communities NEW YORK (TIP): Saudi Arabia has demonstration, traditional Korean in the city, I am pleased to have founded this given Air India approval to fly through its drumming, traditional Chinese dance, event that allows us to usher in the new year airspace on flights between Israel and India, traditional Vietnamese music, music and together as one neighborhood." an airlines spokesperson tells The Times of dance numbers by PS 7, PS 13 and IS 5 Dromm first established the event in 2011 Israel. The agreement would shorten the students, free face paintings, a dog puppet to create an opportunity for the Asian current flight path by some two hours and workshop for children, and lion dancing. It American communities of Elmhurst to mark a significant achievement as Jerusalem also included a resource fair with increase their visibility and celebrate their attempts to upgrade its relationship with representation from nearly 30 local civic cultural pride while sowing the seeds for Council Member Daniel Dromm (on far right), Riyadh. groups, social service providers, and city future organizing. The Elmhurst Coalition of Asian American Children and Families The 7-hour10-minute flight between Tel agencies. celebration has steadily grown over the Director of Programs Mitchel Wu (left of Dromm) and Aviv and Mumbai will launch March 22. "Now in its 8th year, my annual Lunar years and is now among the neighborhood's other attendees join traditional lion dancers to usher Air India says it will operate the flight New Year celebration is becoming a time- most cherished events. in the Year of the Dog at the 8th Annual Lunar New three times a week. Year Celebration in Elmhurst, Queens. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 8 EDITORIAL FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 GUEST AS I SEE IT COMMENT Pak trips on free run: 37-nation Financial Trump's warning Action Task Force to probe terror funding shot: Protectionism Pakistan will now have to provide a detailed action plan on actions it proposes to take on can unleash a curbing funding for UN-designated terrorist groups. It would then be placed on the FATF grey list, where its financial flows would be subject to intense international scrutiny. global trade war Pakistan would, thereafter, be placed on the FATF "black list" if it fails to present a By G Parthasarathy credible and comprehensive action plan to the FATF by June. This would virtually end any S President Donald Trump appeared to be at his wits' end he Financial Action Task Force (FATF), prospect of it receiving adequate financial flows. Uwhen he made a rash comment set up in 1989 by the G7 countries, and after his chief economic adviser Gary Twith headquarters in Paris, acts as an Cohn put in his papers: "Will be making "international watchdog" on issues of money a decision soon on the appointment of laundering and financing of terrorism. It has 37 new chief economic advisor. Many members, including all five permanent people wanting the job - will choose members of the Security Council, and countries wisely!" It is both a confession of his with economic influence all across the world. poor judgment and a desire to have a Two regional organizations - the Gulf yes-man. This is an ominous sign of Cooperation and the European Commission - rising protectionism that threatens to are members of the FATF. Saudi Arabia and disrupt global trade. Although, China Israel are observers. India became a full appears to be in the President Trump's member of the FATF in June 2010. The FATF is direct firing line, India needs to be empowered to ensure that financing of UN- prepared for collateral damage. The designated terrorist organizations is blocked. It A heavily escorted Hafiz Saeed. Pakistan's calculations have back-fired; it will have to be accountable. signs are there when the US President has the power to publicly name countries not in an emotional outburst hauled up abiding by its norms, making it difficult for given the bonhomie that Russian foreign is time for Pakistan's rogue army to end support India for high import duties on the them to source financial flows internationally. minister Sergei Lavrov manifested when he on its soil to armed terrorist groups, acting iconic Harley-Davidson motorbike Pakistan is particularly vulnerable to invited his Pakistani counterpart Khawaja Asif against India and Afghanistan. While Pakistan despite its "insignificant" contribution pressures from this task force as the Afghan to Moscow on the eve of the FATF meeting. recently claimed it had closed Lashkar offices, it in the total bilateral trade. Indeed, Taliban, Haqqani network, LeT and JeM - all Further, despite parliamentary opposition, was soon found that only the gates of these jingoism in any form is irrational. internationally designated terrorist groups - Pakistan declared, just over a week before the offices were closed, while routine activities President Trump's protectionism operate from its soil. Pakistan has long claimed FATF meeting, that it would be deploying continued inside. may, however, hamper the American that it has done its best to prevent terrorism additional troops in Saudi Arabia. It clearly In these circumstances, India should urge economy the most. In a last-ditch effort, emanating from its soil. It has also averred that expected Saudi support in the FATF after its members of the European Union and Japan to adviser Cohn tried to make Trump there is no firm evidence against the LeT and decision was announced. The Lavrov bonhomie join the US and end providing concessional understand that undue tariff protection the JeM, even after these groups have publicly led the inexperienced Khawaja Asif to proclaim credits to Pakistan. Given its precarious foreign to domestic steel and aluminum makers acknowledged that they were promoting hastily and prematurely that Pakistan had exchange position, Pakistan will inevitably would hurt upstream manufacturers terrorism in India. Pakistan has also rejected succeeded in prevailing over moves to place it have to go to the IMF for a bailout in a few like cars and cans. It is unfortunate that evidence like wireless transcripts of on the FATF "grey list" involving monitoring of months. Institutions like the IMF, World Bank the US, which once championed free conversations of Jaish terrorists involved in the its international financial flows. and Asian Development Bank need to be trade ring-fenced by WTO, is resorting Pathankot airport and the vast evidence The Americans responded immediately to persuaded to withhold providing concessional to unilateral trading barriers instead of available internationally of the Lashkar role in these developments. Saudi Arabia and the GCC credits to Pakistan, even if it takes some token sharpening the competitiveness of the the Mumbai 26/11 attack. The Americans and fell in line with American demands for the measures to claim it has acted against UN- domestic industry. Apparently under their allies have focused attention primarily on FATF to act against Pakistan. European powers designated terrorist outfits. India should urge pressure, India has already started Pakistan support for the Haqqani network in like the UK, Germany and France remained that no concessional credits should be provided importing energy all the way from Afghanistan. steadfast in their determination to corner to Pakistan till it dismantles the infrastructure America, which makes little Pakistan has believed that sooner, rather Pakistan. Russia quietly receded to the of terrorism on its soil irrevocably. China will commercial sense, especially when such than later, the Americans would cut their losses background. Recognizing that its support for not follow suit; but its "aid" for the China- resources are freely available in the and withdraw from Afghanistan, leaving the Pakistan would leave it isolated in the FATF, Pakistan Economic Corridor will only increase neighborhood. Indian airlines have country open for a Pakistan-backed Taliban where it was aspiring to become its vice- Pakistan's already heavy debt burden. placed orders worth several billions of takeover. President Donald Trump, however, chairman at the forthcoming FATF session in The withdrawal of Chinese support in the dollars to purchase more than 300 made it clear that he was determined that the June, Pakistan's "all-weather friend" China FATF has shaken the Pakistan establishment's American aircraft. US would not "lose" in Afghanistan. He is pulled back its support for Pakistan. The only belief that Chinese support to "contain India" President Trump's decision to impose augmenting the US troop presence and moving country that steadfastly continued supporting has no limitations. China recognizes that steep tariffs on steel and aluminum fast to strengthen the Afghan armed forces, Pakistan was Turkey, whose egotistic President backing Pakistan unconditionally in the FATF imports is primarily targeted at Canada including its air force. American economic Recep Erdogan would certainly not win an would not only earn it the ire of the mercurial and China but the impact will be felt by assistance to Pakistan has been placed on hold. international popularity contest today! Donald Trump but would also sully its image steel and aluminum producers across In addition, the US has mobilized its NATO Pakistan will now have to provide a detailed internationally. At the same time, this does not the world. The decision has the seeds to allies to take a tougher line on Pakistan. The action plan on actions it proposes to take on mean that there will be any change in China's unleash a global trade war as the US NATO allies are also expanding their curbing funding for UN-designated terrorist policies on issues like declaring Jaish chief imports steel from more than 100 deployments in Afghanistan. More recently, the groups. It would then be placed on the FATF Masood Azhar an international terrorist. countries. China has already US has initiated moves to get the task force to grey list, where its financial flows would be Moreover, we should also clearly recognize that communicated that it would retaliate if place Pakistan on its "grey list" at its next subject to intense international scrutiny. President Trump's actions are primarily in its interests were harmed. For Indian meeting in June. Pakistan would, thereafter, be placed on the response to Pakistan's support for the Haqqani manufacturers, it is the time to become The American effort in the FATF on Pakistan FATF "black list" if it fails to present a credible network in Afghanistan. They are not highly or more competitive. Once the US market funding of terrorist groups predictably ran into and comprehensive action plan to the FATF by significantly focused on Pakistan-sponsored gets closed, Chinese exporters would problems initially. Pakistan had mobilized June. This would virtually end any prospect of terrorism on Indian soil. That is a battle that turn towards India in a big way. support from China, the Gulf Cooperation it receiving adequate financial flows. There has will have to be fought primarily by us. Council led by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and quite been disappointment, anger and frustration in (Tribune, India) (The author is an Indian career diplomat. He evidently Russia to counter the American-led Pakistan at the FATF decision. Hardly anyone was High Commissioner of India to Pakistan in move. Islamabad banked on Russian support, in Pakistan is prepared to publicly advise that it 1998-2000)

THE INDIAN PANORAMA PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER: Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja Mohammad Shahzad, Zia Khan DELHI BUREAU CHIEF: Ashishpal Singh E-mail [email protected]; Phone: 646-247-9458 VICE PRESIDENT: Chitagam Saluja Nisha Rani CHANDIGARH: Manjit Sidhu www.theindianpanorama.news CHIEF EDITOR: Prof Indrajit S. Saluja Vaaho Photographers LUDHIANA: A.S. Arora, R.P.Sharma Published by Prof. Indrajit Saluja ASSISTANT EDITOR: Bidisha Roy Vijay Shah -Photo Journalist. GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Om Parkash Malik DISTRIBUTOR : Sukhwinder Singh The Indian Panorama DIRECTOR ADMINISTRATION: Gauri Beri CORRESPONDENTS : P.O. Box No. 190067, South Richmond Hill, NY 11419, DISCLAIMER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: SACRAMENTO: Parminder S. Aujla Tel: 646-247-9458 The Indian Panorama assumes no responsibility for the Baldev Singh / BJ Videos NEW YORK : Chitagam Email: [email protected] claims made in advertisements. We only sell space. Views published in the newspaper are those of the authors and do Gunjesh Desai / Masala Junction FRESNO: Tarlochan Singh DALLAS EDITION not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper. All rights Jay Mandal, DALLAS: Harjit Dhesi, Amarjit Dhillon P.O. BOX 121695, ARLINGTON, TX 76012 are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without Mohammad Jaffer/ SnapsIndia OVERSEAS CORRESPONDENTS Lovllien Kaurr, VP & Bureau Chief permission in writing from The Indian Panorama is prohibited. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 PERESPECTIVE 9 NIRAV MODI SCAM: a case of deceit and plunder of the public exchequer There is a pattern to mega fraud cases- involvement of bank officials and government

he fraudulent financial behavior of some of the wealthiest people in India Twas once again on full display as the diamond jeweler Nirav Modi, a billionaire and the preferred jeweler of celebrities, was By George Abraham accused of orchestrating the biggest banking scam the nation has ever witnessed. He is now a target of the investigation by CBI after At present, the bad debt Punjab National Bank alleged that Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, defrauded the bank of these Banks is greater to the tune of 2 billion dollars using the cover than that of the GNP of of several shell companies abroad. the“ 137 countries in the world According to the complaint by PNB, two junior officers of a Mumbai branch of the Bank issued "letters of undertaking" to firms linked to Modi and Choksi for them to obtain The data shows that credit from overseas branches of other between years 2012-2013 Indian lenders. A recent NDTV investigation has also and 2016-2017, Indian unearthed links between money from Indian banks“ saw a total number of Nirav Modi at his New York City Store on Madison Avenue.CBI has issued Banks allegedly embezzled by the Jeweler Non-bailable warrants against him. 22,949 instances of fraud, Nirav Modi and his US-based companies. In with total losses to the banks its formal charges, CBI claims that the loans Mr. Modi took from Punjab National bank to Punjab National Bank, India's second-largest bank, is amounting to 10.8 billion pay off his overseas suppliers may have been known as a Public Sector Bank (PSB) whose major shares dollars. diverted elsewhere. are owned by the government. That means, when a bank The latest report from New York also accumulates“ NPA (non-performing assets) also known as bad indicates that Firestar Diamond Inc., a registered business by Nirav Modi in the U.S. debt, it is the Indian taxpayers and the shareholders that The deep mystery has filed the Chapter 11 voluntary petition for ultimately pay the price surrounding some of the the protection from its creditors. Prime biggest fraud cases is Minister Modi who claimed to be the 2013 and 2016-2017, Indian banks saw a total project plans using influential connections in “that many of these 'chowkidar' of the country has gone relatively number of 22,949 instances of fraud, with the banking as well as in politics facilitating silent on this matter other than to make a total losses to the banks amounting to 10.8 the process. Upon default, they tend to flee the perpetrators were simply general statement. billion dollars. In the last three-and-half country and spend their time abroad while allowed to flee the country, How is it possible for a businessman in years, the government pumped in more than enjoying the loot. Recently, it was also including this one! Nirav Modi India to defraud a bank of such a large sum of Rs. 51000 crore capital to the public sector revealed that Mr. Vikram Kothari, of the and his accomplices appeared money? Where is the due diligence and what banks. They are expected to infuse PSBs with 'Rotomac Pen' (a company that manufactures happened to the risk management another Rs.2.11 lakh crore in the coming two various types of pens), is charged with to have fled India just before mechanism? Was the Reserve Bank of India years. Non-performing assets (bad debt) of defrauding Rs 3695 crores from the public Punjab National Bank filed the asleep on the wheel? Why there was no the Public sector banks alone are calculated sector banks! complaint with the CBI on oversight by the Finance Ministry dealing to be around Rs. 7.33 lakh crores as of June When these banks finally reach a real 29th January 2018. with such a huge transfer of reserve 2017, from Rs. 2.78 lakh crore in March 2015. crisis mode, the government steps in to currency? Where is the accountability of the Further analysis of the data reveals that 'recapitalize' or in other words get 'bailed out'. Modi government? the bad debt at these PSBs has increased The process is said to be as follows: through The deep mystery surrounding some of the almost fourfold in the last three years. budgetary allocations, the government may The bankruptcy biggest fraud cases is that many of Significant portions of these bank loans are buy so many crores of shares, then the banks thefraudsters were simply allowed to flee the from Corporates who have borrowed and now will further raise additional crores from the declarations by jeweler country, including this one! Nirav Modi and unwilling to pay back. Recent research market, and the government may issue Bank Nirav Modi's companies - his accomplices appeared to have fled India brought out by Ernst and Young said the recapitalization bonds to buy even more “Firestar Diamond Inc, A Jaffe just before Punjab National Bank filed the following: "While corporate borrowers have shares of the banks. Inc and Fantasy Inc - may complaint with the CBI on 29th January 2018. repeatedly blamed economic slowdown as the Under the Modi regime, the crony It was reported that top officials including the primary factor behind defaulting on bank capitalism has flourished, and a high offer some clues to where the Prime Minister were made aware of this case loans, periodic independent audits on transfer of wealth is allowed to take place money went in the ?12,622- that included 42 FIRs on 22nd July 2016. Why borrowers have revealed diversion of funds from the ordinary taxpayers to these wealthy crore Punjab National Bank. then were these perpetrators not stopped or willful default leading to stress situations." billionaires; many of them hail from from running away that included Choksi How do we explain this massive level of Gujarat, Prime Minister's home state. While According to a Chapter 11 (Nirav's uncle who ran the 'Gitanjali Gems') willful default other than systematic poor folks are penalized for not keeping a filing, A Jaffe owes more than whose spurious activities were already manipulation of this institution by the rich minimum balance in their government- $6 million to "unsecured exposed by a whistleblower and was under and well-connected? We are asked to believe mandated bank accounts, these so-called active investigation? that two junior officers in a Mumbai branch industrialists are accorded unprecedented creditors" in the United Arab This is not the first time since Modi took of PNB made decisions to transfer 12000 access to public money, without any Emirates (UAE) - Pacific the reins of the government that a high flying crores of Rupees to a business entity matching equity, which should have gone to Diamonds and Tricolor billionaire has evaded justice by escaping especially dealing with Diamonds where building schools, bridges, health facilities Diamonds FZE. The CBI FIR abroad before he could be caught. Liquor Banks have little or no expertise! and other infrastructure while creating magnate Vijay Mallya was accused of On the other hand, an ordinary Indian will prosperity for all its citizens. names these two as defaulting on 1.4 billion worth of loans before have such an arduous task on hand if he It is about time; the Modi government takes "exporters" who were leaving the country in March 2016. It is not ventures out into requesting a personal loan a serious look at this mushrooming scandal of beneficiaries of the letters of far-fetched to believe that these bad actors from one of these PSBs. Even farmers are deceit and plunder which has grave undertaking issued by the might have solicited some inside help that often subjected to voluminous paperwork and implications for the financial stability and allowed them to leave the country and to stay harsh scrutiny before securing even a small the well-being of the nation. At present, the PNB employees accused of beyond the reach of Indian jurisprudence. amount in a loan. In case of delay or default, bad debt of these Banks is greater than that of perpetrating the fraud along Punjab National Bank, India's second- many of them are subjected to harassment, the GNP of the 137 countries in the world and with Modi, his uncle Mehul largest bank, is known as a Public Sector lien attachment on their primary residence a thorough audit of many of these large loans Choksi, also a jeweler, and Bank (PSB) whose major shares are owned by and too often have witnessed auctioning off for accountability will very much be in order. the government. That means, when a bank their property. Many of the ongoing suicides But it needs will on the part of the their companies. accumulates NPA (non-performing assets) are directly attributed to these stressful government. also known as bad debt, it is the Indian situations. (The author is a former UN Technical Officer taxpayers and the shareholders that In the meantime, the crony capitalists are and is presentlythe Vice-Chairman of the ultimately pay the price. getting away with murder. They siphon off Indian Overseas Congress, USA. He can be The data shows that between years 2012- the taxpayer's money often presenting bogus reached at [email protected]) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 10 SOUTH ASIA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 Vinay Kumar appointed India's Ambassador to Mosque, shops attacked in Afghanistan anti-Muslim riots in Sri Lanka COLOMBO (TIP): Sri Lankan police said petrol bombs were hurled at a mosque on March 8 as hundreds of troops patrolled a troubled central district where anti-Muslim violence has left three people dead. Muslim-owned businesses were set on fire and vandalised in several parts of Sri Lanka, police said, days after an island-wide state of emergency was imposed to curb riots in Kandy. Armoured vehicles and heavily-armed Vinay Kumar succeeds Manpreet Vohra as troops fortified the hill district, where India's Ambassador to Afghanistan internet services remain suspended and an evening curfew is in place. NEW DELHI(TIP) : Senior diplomat The government ordered the internet Vinay Kumar has been appointed as India's blackout after police discovered mobs of ambassador to strategically key Sinhalese rioters were using social media to Afghanistan. coordinate attacks on Muslim establishments. He will replace Manpreet Vohra in Kabul. More than 200 homes, businesses and Kumar, a 1992 batch Indian Foreign vehicles have been torched in three days of Service officer, is currently serving as Joint violence by mobs from the mainly Buddhist Secretary (South) in the headquarters of the Sinhalese majority. external affairs ministry here. A 24-hour curfew was imposed on Muslims. disperse rioters the previous evening. "He is expected to take up his assignment Wednesday afternoon after a hand grenade Muslims in Kandy complained that The United Nations has condemned the shortly," the ministry said in a release, exploded in the hands of an attacker, killing security forces and police -- equipped with violence and urged Colombo "to ensure that March 1. Vohra has been serving as him and wounding 11 others, officials said. special powers to detain under the emergency appropriate measures are swiftly taken to ambassador of India to Afghanistan since The day-time curfew was eased following a provision -- were slow to react as the violence restore normalcy in affected areas". January 2016. calm night but tensions remain high in the unfolded. "The main junction is going up in The Kandy region, 115 kilometres (72 miles) Kumar, a graduate from IIT Kharagpur, tourist hotspot and schools shuttered. flames. At the same time, the authorities are east of the capital Colombo, is popular with has served in various positions. He had also But in Kuruvita, 125 kilometres (78 miles) folding their arms and watching," said tourists as well as Buddhist pilgrims. worked in India's permanent mission to the south of Kandy,police said petrol bombs were Muslim businessman M. Jaffer, as quoted in Holidaymakers have been urged to avoid United Nations in New York. lobbed at a mosque. Little damage was Thursday's DailyFT newspaper. the hill resort but no foreigners have been India and Afghanistan are strategic inflicted and three suspects are being Former Sri Lankan cricket captain Kumar reported involved in the unrest. partners and relations between the two pursued. Sangakkara alluded to the island's history of "Shops are opening, and more people can be countries have been on an upswing in the In Weligama, 240 kilometres south of ethnic violence in urging his countrymen "to seen on the roads since the curfew was lifted," last few years. Kandy, a Muslim-owned business was say no to racism". a police official in the area said by telephone. India has invested over $2 billion in aid attacked, police said, while Muslim "We have to make sure that in Sri Lanka Kandy is home to Sri Lanka's holiest and in development projects in the war- establishments were pelted with stones in at anyone and everyone feels safe, loved and Buddhist shrine, the Temple of the Tooth ravaged country. least two other locations outside Kandy. accepted regardless of ethnicity or religion," Relic. The chief custodian of the UNESCO- In September last year, India made a fresh Sri Lanka's telecoms regulator asked he said in a video posted to Twitter. listed temple, Pradeep Nilanga Dela, said announcement of taking up 116 "high impact internet providers to block access to Facebook President Maithripala Sirisena toured foreign tourists and pilgrims were flocking to community developmental projects" in 31 and other social media platforms to prevent Kandy on Wednesday and ordered security the shrine despite the tensions. provinces of Afghanistan. the spread of anti-Muslim hate speech. forces to use the full force of the law against The unrest began Monday after a Sinhalese Police have already identified anti-Muslim troublemakers. man died following injuries sustained at the Pakistan appoints messages being shared on social networks, Military officials said more reinforcements hands of a Muslim mob last week. Conflict including a video posted by a hardline were sent to the area on Wednesday night to escalated when a Muslim man was found dead investment banking Buddhist monk urging violence against assist police who resorted to teargas to in a burnt building on Tuesday. (AFP) expert as envoy to US Serial killer, two others Islamic State group calls on Muslims to ISLAMABAD (TIP): Pakistan has appointed investment banking expert Ali sentenced to death in immigrate to Afghanistan Jahangir Siddiqui as its next ambassador to the US, government sources said on Bangladesh KABUL (TIP): The Islamic State group in Afghanistan is inviting Muslims Thursday. Siddiqui, son of prominent worldwide to come to the war-torn country if they cannot reach Syria or Iraq, businessman and banker Jahangir Siddiqui, DHAKA (TIP): A notorious serial killer who as it seeks to expand its foothold. will replace Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry. allegedly killed 11 women in Bangladesh has been A 25-minute propaganda film released by the Islamic State-Khorasan Chaudhry's tenure is due to expire and the sentenced to death along with his two accomplices for Province (IS-K) on March 4 promotes IS strongholds in Afghanistan's north government hasn't offered him an extension. raping and murdering a woman, according to a media and east as an "option for immigration", the SITE Intelligence Group said Sources in the government said that Prime report. Tuesday. Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi after Rashu Khan, Jahirul Islam and Yunus Miah raped and "O you Muslims in every corner of the world! Immigrate to Khorasan! If you consultations approved the appointment and killed the 35-year-old victim in Hasa village of the are incapable of immigrating to Iraq and Sham (Syria), come to Khorasan," a Siddiqui is expected to take up Chandpur district, bdnews reported. fighter said on the video. responsibilities next month after completion Chandpur Women and Children Repression The name Khorasan refers to a historic region which includes parts of of formalities. Prevention Tribunal and District and Sessions Judge modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan and neighbouring countries. His appointment comes at a time of fresh Abul Mannan handed down the verdict yesterday after The video comes amid growing concerns that IS fighters fleeing battlefields strain in ties between Islamabad and examining all records and witnesses, Mir Kashem, sub- in Syria and Iraq are finding their way to Afghanistan, where the group has a Washington after the US successfully moved inspector of Chandpur Sadar police station, was quoted small but potent presence. the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to as saying bdnews. AFP recently reported that French and Algerian fighters, some arriving place Pakistan on the global terror financing Earlier on April 22, 2015, the self-confessed killer was from Syria, had joined IS in the northern Afghan province of Jowzjan. watch-list. Siddiqui was appointed as the sentenced to death for killing a garment worker in A German national was also recently arrested with the Taliban in the special assistant to the PM on economic and Chandpur. restive southern province of Helmand, Afghan officials said last week. He is business matters in August last. The worker was killed after being raped near one of the only Europeans found among the militants throughout the 16-year He had also served as chairman of JS Nanupur canal of Faridganj in Chandpur on August 18, war. The IS video published with an Arabic narration showed some fighters Bank Ltd, which was founded by his 2008. delivering messages in Pashto, Persian and Uzbek languages. stockbroker-turned-banker father Jahangir Rashu was arrested on October 7, 2009 from Nirashpur It opens with a narration mocking US President Donald Trump's vow to Siddiqui. He separated from business after of Tongi for stealing a fan from a mosque. He later destroy the group in Afghanistan and goes on to show executions of prisoners his appointment as the special assistant. confessed to the killing 11 women after raping them. and the training of child soldiers. Siddiqui has no direct experience of He wanted to kill a total of 101 women and then take IS-K was attempting to turn "rumours" of foreign fighters moving to diplomacy as he served at different positions refuge at the Shahjalal shrine in Sylhet, the report said. Afghanistan from Syria "into reality", Borhan Osman, a senior analyst at in various business and commercial entities Rashu's first victim was the wife of his brother-in-law International Crisis Group, told AFP. in Pakistan and abroad. He was honoured by in 2007. He used to have relations with women on the But the group would struggle to persuade fighters to travel as far as the World Economic Forum as a Young pretext of marrying them but instead killed them after Afghanistan, said Emily Winterbotham, a senior research fellow at the UK- Global Leader in 2014. (PTI) raping them in remote areas of Chandpur. (PTI) based Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies. (AFP) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 11 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 12 US FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 Trump denies adult star affair allegation Amazon removes Lord Ganesha stockings after Hindu protest NEVADA (TIP): World's largest online revered in Hinduism and was meant to be retailer Amazon.com withdrew stockings worshipped in temples or home shrines and carrying image of Hindu deity Lord not to cover your feet and legs or touch with Ganesha from its website within two days your feet and legs. Inappropriate usage of after upset Hindus protested, calling it Hindu deities or symbols or concepts for "highly inappropriate". commercial or other agenda was not okay as it Three stockings carrying images of Lord hurt the faithful. Trump and Stormy Daniels Ganesha, which were selling at Amazon.com Hinduism was the oldest and third largest from $9.69 to $16.30, do not show up religion of the world with about 1.1 billion WASHINGTON (TIP): US President anymore. adherents and a rich philosophical thought Donald Trump has denied accusations by a Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, who and it should not be taken frivolously. porn star that he had sexual encounters with spearheaded the protest urging for Symbols of any faith, larger or smaller, her, the White House said on Thursday,March immediate withdrawal of these should not be mishandled, Rajan Zed had 8, a day after she sued him to invalidate a deal objectionable products, in a statement in indicated. that prevented her from discussing the Nevada, thanked Amazon.com for Zed had stated that such trivialization of alleged relationship. Stephanie Clifford, who understanding the concerns of Hindu Lord Ganesha was disturbing to the Hindus is known as Stormy Daniels in the adult film community which thought image of Lord world over. Hindus were for free artistic industry, filed a lawsuit in a California State Ganesha on such a product was highly expression and speech as much as anybody court on Tuesday. insensitive. else if not more. But faith was something "The President has denied the allegations Zed, who is President of Universal Society sacred and attempts at trivializing it hurt against him and again this case has already of Hinduism, however, pointed out that a the followers, Zed added. been won in arbitration," the White House formal apology from Amazon.com President Hindus have protested and contacted Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters Jeffrey P. Bezos to the upset Hindu Amazon.com many times in the past over at her daily news conference. community was still due, as this was not the what they felt was trivialization of Hindu The former adult film actress has sued first time for the company to offer such deities on various products sold on its Donald Trump, claiming that his lawyer products which were deemed offensive by website and had been mostly successful in forced her to sign a statement in 2016 to stop Hindu devotees. persuading the company to remove those. her from going public about her alleged Rajan Zed suggested that Amazon.com In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is relationship with the then Republican- and other companies should send their worshipped as god of wisdom and remover presidential candidate. Stephanie Clifford senior executives for training in religious of obstacles and is invoked before the filed a lawsuit in a California State court. The and cultural sensitivity so that they had an beginning of any major undertaking. There lawsuit alleges that she was paid $130,000 by understanding of the feelings of customers are about three million Hindus in USA. Michael Cohen, Trump's personal lawyer, to and communities when introducing new Amazon.com, Inc., a Fortune 500 company not to go public with her alleged sexual products or launching advertising founded in 1994, and headquartered in encounters with Trump when he was the then campaigns. Seattle, claims to offer earth's biggest presidential candidate. Zed had said that Lord Ganesha was highly selection. United States Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi urges Chicagoans to vote for Illinois primary election

CHICAGO, IL(TIP): A Press Conference for media was held on behalf of United States Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, at Mysore Woodlands on 2548 W. Devon Ave. Chicago, IL. At this press conference Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi covered a wide range of significant topics including his legislative accomplishments, future legislation agenda and other relevant current topics. Democratic Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois has urged suburban Chicago residents to vote for Illinois primary election. "Indian-Americans and all suburban Chicago residents must register to vote to allow their voices to be heard," he said and added, "As I have said many times, if you don't have a seat at the table, then you are on the menu. Registering to vote and voting ensures that your voice is heard, and you have a proverbial seat at the table when important decisions are made affecting you." Volunteers and friends of Krishnamoorthi helped register voters at the Itasca temple last 9997United States Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi with media at Press Conference week. The efforts at the event will be his re-election campaign as of the end of the well as to help give Americans the skills they replicated by him elsewhere to help increase fourthfundraising quarter that ended need to compete for in-demand jobs. the number of registered voters in the Indian- December 31. The Strengthening Career and Technical American community. "My constituents sent me to Washington to Education for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 2353) United States Congressman Raja work every day on growing and strengthening reauthorizes the Carl D. Perkins Career and Krishnamoorthi Fund Raising Efforts the middle class, and that's what we've done," Technical Education Act and is the first major Meanwhile, Raja Krishnamoorthi Krishnamoorthi said. "These resources will overhaul of the program since 2006. educators together to establish training continued his incredible fundraising success help us amplify that message to continue our "As President Trump said in his State of the programs to prepare students for in-demand by bringing in more than $650,000 in the 4th important work in Congress. Krishnamoorthi Union speech, career and technical education careers." The son of immigrants, quarter of 2017. and Republican Congressman Glenn "GT" is going to be a critical part of our country's Krishnamoorthi was elected to Congress in The first-term Member of Congress from Thompson of Pennsylvania are the two lead economy, and this legislation will help November 2016 with nearly 60 percent of the the 8th District of Illinois that includes sponsors of bipartisan legislation that passed strengthen and modernize it," vote against his Republican opponent. Chicago's west and northwestsuburbs has the House of Representatives unanimously to Krishnamoorthi said. "The bill works to close (Photographs and Press release by Asian more than $3.31 million cash on hand to begin improve career and technical education, as the skills gap by pairing businesses and Media USA) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 US 13 Florida passes Bill to TRUMP’S ECONOMIC ADVISER restrict guns, minimum age to buy firearms raised QUITS OVER TARIFFS to 21 Gary Cohn, architect of tax reforms, differed with President on trade policies MIAMI (TIP): The US state of Florida, scene of America's latest school shooting, has passed WASHINGTON (TIP): Gary Cohn, the top were the "top two candidates" for the job. Bill that raises the minimum age to buy firearms economic adviser to US President Donald During his stay at the White House, Cohn to 21 while funding a program that allows some Trump and a voice for Wall Street in the led coordination of Trump's pro-growth teachers and school employees to be armed. White House,resigned on March 7, in yet domestic and global economic policy agenda, The "Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School another jolt to the embattled White House including the passage of historic tax cuts Public Safety Act," which takes its name from that has seen a series of high-profile and reforms in December 2017. "It has been February 14 massacre in which 17 persons, departures. an honor to serve my country and enact pro- including 14 students were killed, passed the Cohn, 57, who is a former Goldman Sach growth economic policies to benefit the legislature's lower house a day after clearing the executive, resigned as the White House Americans. I am grateful to the President for senate. National Economic Council director over giving me this opportunity," Cohn said. - It will now be sent to Governor Rick Scott to differences with the Trump's trade policies, Agencies sign. The Republican has not indicated whether including a move to impose a hefty 25 per he would veto the law, but he has previously cent tariff on the import of steel and 10 per Trump threatens to tax expressed opposition to US President Donald cent on aluminium. European cars Trump's call to arm teachers. White House officials said the tariffs Donald Trump on Tuesday, March 6, America's long moribund gun control debate dispute contributed to Cohn's decision to threatened to slap a 25% tax on import of was revived by survivors of the Parkland leave but that it was not the sole reason. For cars from Europe if the EU retaliated on its shooting, who a day after their school was several weeks, Cohn had been discussing decision to impose import tariffs on steel and attacked launched the "Never Again" movement with the President that it was nearing time aluminium demanding legislative action. for him to transition out. His departure date Swedish PM Stefan Lofven during his The Bill raises the minimum age to purchase is to be determined but will be a few weeks meeting with Trump had conveyed the all firearms from 18 to 21, a move opposed by the from now, a White House official said. message of the EU president that if the US powerful National Rifle Association lobby group, Gary Cohn has quit over policy perception "Gary has been my chief economic adviser differences with President Trump put tariffs on steel and aluminum, they will bans modification devices that make a semi- and did a superb job in driving our agenda, slap back with punitive tariffs on bourbon, automatic weapon fully automatic, and increases helping to deliver historic tax cuts and that he "will be making a decision soon" on jeans and motorcycles mental health funding. reforms and unleashing the American replacing Cohn. Administration officials They can do whatever they'd like, but if It also includes a voluntary "guardian economy once again. He is a rare talent, and said Peter Navarro, director of the White they do that, we put 25% tax on their cars, program" named after Coach Aaron Feis who I thank him for his dedicated service to the House National Trade Council, and and believe me, they won't be doing it long, was slain in the Parkland attack, which is American people," Trump said. He tweeted conservative commentator Larry Kudlow Trump said intended to "aid in the prevention or abatement of active assailant incidents on school premises" by allowing some school employees to be armed. Student dead, another hurt The program is mainly aimed at staff such as US announces $5 million reward for coaches and school personnel, with teachers by gunshot in Alabama high eligible if they have military or law enforcement information on Pakistan Taliban leader experience. Bringing more guns into school has WASHINGTON (TIP): The US today announced a $5 million award for been a controversial idea, but lawmakers school information leading to the arrest of Afghanistan-based Maulana Fazlullah, leader defended the Bill. BIRMINGHAM (US) (TIP): Birmingham closed of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an outfit which carries out terrorist attacks Meanwhile, Democrat legislators said the one of its largest schools for a thorough safety sweep inside Pakistan. guardian program was a "poison pill" in a law Thursday after metal detectors and other security Under its rewards for justice program, the US also announced a $3 million otherwise taking necessary steps towards gun measures failed to keep students from handling a gun reward each for information on Abdul Wali, of Jamaat ul-Ahrar (JuA), and control. African-American representatives also in a classroom where one 17-year-old was fatally shot Mangal Bagh leader of Lashkar-e-Islam. expressed fears that arming black school and another wounded in an apparent accident. Jamaat-ul-Ahrar is a terrorist organization that split away from TTP while the employees could leave them vulnerable to being Birmingham Interim Police Chief Orlando Wilson Lashkar-e-Islam is based in the Khyber Tribal Agency in Pakistan. mistaken for attackers by police arriving on the said investigators are reviewing surveillance video for The announcement came as the Pakistani Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua scene of a mass shooting. clues and interviewing students and staff to figure out held meetings with officials of the Trump administration including the White However, the Bill does not ban the sale of the exactly what led to Wednesday afternoon's shooting at House and the State Department. AR-15 assault rifle-the weapon used by Nikolas dismissal time at Huffman High School. The State Department said TTP is a terrorist organization based in the tribal Cruz-one of activists' key demands. ``We consider it accidental until the investigation areas of eastern Afghanistan. It has historically maintained close ties to al-Qaida. takes us elsewhere,'' Wilson said. ``We have a lot of Since being appointed by the group's central Shura Council in November 2013, unanswered questions. There are so many unknowns Fazlullah has organized and directed several TTP attacks against Pakistani The Marjory Stoneman at this time.'' The gun was recovered, but Wilson interests and has publicly blamed the US for military operations against the Douglas High School Public declined to say who fired it. No arrests were group. Safety Act immediately reported. ``We're hoping if we have In December 2014, Fazlullah's operatives carried out the most lethal terrorist footage, that it will reveal it,'' he said. ``If we have attack in Pakistani history when its operatives killed 151 people, including more mposes a three-day waiting period for the witnesses, we're hoping they will tell it.'' than 130 children, during an attack against the Army Public School in Peshawar, purchase of all firearms, not just The two students weren't officially identified, but Pakistan. Ihandguns, or until a background check is Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said young In 2012, Fazlullah ordered the failed assassination of Pakistani schoolgirl completed, whichever is longer woman killed was a senior, about to turn 18 and had Malala Yousafzai who promoted girls' right to education and publicly criticized Raises the minimum legal age to purchase a been accepted at college, with ``aspirations and Fazlullah and the TTP, the State Department said. rifle or shotgun to 21 from 18. Federal law dreams to be a nurse.'' ``We are not just talking about Abdul Wali reportedly operates from Afghanistan's Nangarhar and Kunar already prohibits anyone under 21 from some person, we're talking about losing a part of our Provinces. Under Wali's leadership, JuA has been one of the most operationally buying a handgun future. Our hearts are heavy,'' the mayor said. active TTP networks in Punjab Province and has claimed multiple suicide Outlaws bump stocks, which enable a semi- The chief said he had not been told of any kind of bombings and other attacks throughout Pakistan. automatic weapon to be fired as an automatic argument, fight or struggle that preceded the shooting, In March 2016, JuA conducted a suicide bombing at a public park in Lahore, weapon. Such devices were used in a mass which also wounded a 17-year-old junior on the Pakistan, that killed 75 people and injured 340. In August 2015, JuA claimed shooting in Las Vegas last year football team, al.com reported. ``We're not saying he responsibility for a suicide bombing in Punjab that killed Punjab Home Minister Allows local sheriff's departments to shot her, we're not saying he didn't shoot her,'' the chief Shuja Khanzada and 18 of his supporters. establish a "guardian program" in which said. ``We're asking those questions ourselves so we Wali is also known as Omar Khalid Khorasani. He was born in Mohmand school personnel can be permitted to can determine exactly what happened.'' Agency, Pakistan, and is believed to be in his late 30s. He is a former journalist voluntarily carry a gun on the job The shooting prompted a brief lockdown, with and poet and studied at a number of madrasas in Karachi. Allows police to temporarily seize firearms students and teachers sheltering in place. Wilson also According to the State Department, Mangal Bagh and his group earns revenue from someone who has been taken into confirmed that metal detectors were in place and from drug trafficking, smuggling, kidnapping, raids on NATO convoys, and taxes custody for an involuntary mental functioning in the school. ``This should not happen in on transit trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan. examination under Florida's so-called Baker schools,'' he said. Birmingham City Schools Bagh has led Lashkar-e-Islam since 2006 and has routinely shifted alliances to Act statute Superintendent Lisa Herring announced late protect illicit revenue streams while enforcing an extreme version of Deobandi Prohibits anyone from owning or Wednesday night that school will be closed on Islam in the areas of eastern Afghanistan and western Pakistan that he controls, possessing a firearm who has been judged Thursday, to give authorities time and space for a particularly Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. mentally incompetent or has been committed thorough security sweep and enable collaboration Born in Khyber Agency, Pakistan, he is believed to be in his mid-40s. Bagh is a to a mental institution, until a court rules with community organizations to counsel students member of the Afridi tribe. He studied at a madrasa for several years and later otherwise and staff. (AP) fought alongside militant groups in Afghanistan. (PTI) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 14 INDIA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018

Sufi singer Pyare Lal Wadali dies of cardiac arrest Chandrababu Naidu’ TDP exits

AMRITSAR (TIP): Ustad Pyarelal Wadali, younger brother of Ustad Modi govt but not NDA Puran Chand Wadali died in Amritsar on March 9 NEW DELHI (TIP): Andhra morning. He was 75. Pradesh's ruling Telugu Desam Party He breathed his last at (TDP), led by N Chandrababu Naidu, on Fortis Escorts Hospital in March 8 pulled out of the Narendra Amritsar where he was Modi government, with two of its admitted on Thursday. minister in the Union Cabinet tendering Wadali Brothers, who their resignations. TDP’s exit from the hail from a village near Narendra Modi-led central government Amritsar, are famous for came as a result of the Centre’s refusal their Punjabi Sufi music. to grant Andhra Pradesh a special- The duo began performing at Harballah temple in category status. Jalandhar. They are adept in various styles of singing However, a split within the ruling including Kaafian, ghazal and bhajan. National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at The Wadali Brothers, famous for their Bollywood songs the Centre was averted for now, with the such as Aye Rangrez Mere (Tanu Weds Manu; 2011) and Ik party deciding to remain in the alliance, Tu Hi Tu Hi (Mausam; 2011), have carried on the legacy of a move many view as TDP’s attempt to famous saint poets such as Bulle Shah, Kabir, Amir keep the window for rapprochement Khusro and Surdas for years. open. Civil Aviation Minister P Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Minister of State for Science and Technology & Earth TDP leaders Y S Chowdary (left) and Ashok Gajapathi Raju resigned from the Modi APEX COURT UPHOLDS PASSIVE Sciences Y S Chowdary, the two TDP government as their party continued its demand for special-category status for ministers in the Modi government, met Andhra Pradesh. the prime minister on Thursday evening EUTHANASIA WITH GUIDELINES and tendered their letters of removing the irritants plaguing the forth by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley NEW DELHI (TIP): The Supreme Court ruled on March 9 resignation. However, as of the time this TDP's ties with the BJP-led government was not adequate. that individuals had a right to die with dignity, allowing report was filed, there had been no at the Centre. Government sources have ruled out passive euthanasia with guidelines in a landmark verdict. official word on whether the resignation In a tit-for-tat response, the two BJP the possibility of any compromise on N The top court also permitted individuals to draft a "living letters were forwarded to President Ram ministers in the Andhra Pradesh Chandrababu Naidu's demand for giving will" specifying that they not be put on life support if they Nath Kovind for acceptance. This has government – K Srinivasa Rao and T Andhra Pradesh a special-category slip into an incurable coma. also set off speculations that back- Manikyala Rao – also quit. status. In off-the-record briefings, BJP The five-judge Constitution Bench headed by the Chief channel talks could still be taking place While speaking to the media after leaders said granting a special-category Justice of India said, "Human beings have a right to die with to iron out differences. tendering his resignation letter, Raju status to the state was impossible after dignity.” The Union ministers' resignation said the TDP would continue to be part the recommendations of the 14th Passive euthanasia will be applicable to only a terminally came after a 20-minute talk between the of the NDA. Chowdary, for his part, said Finance Commission were accepted. ill person with no hope for recovery, the court said. TDP boss and Andhra Pradesh Chief the issue of a special-category status The party's leadership added that doing In 2015, the death of a 66-year-old nurse Aruna Shanbaug, Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and was very emotive for Andhra Pradesh so would also open a Pandora's Box, with who was sexually assaulted and left in a vegetative state for Prime Minister Modi. Apparently, the and that the Centre had not addressed it. states like Punjab, Bihar and Odisha more than 40 years, had sparked a national debate over the conversation was not successful in He added that the special package put also demanding a similar treatment. legalisation of euthanasia. Source: Reuters Was India really a black hole Statues vandalised: Tamil Nadu before 2014: Sonia Gandhi Mahatma’s bust BJP expels party worker arrested NEW DELHI (TIP): for damaging Periyar’s bust Congress leader Sonia Gandhi on Friday wondered if India defaced now NEW DELHI (TIP): really was a black hole before Bharatiya Janata Party’s the BJP government was Tamil Nadu chief Tamilisai formed in 2014. Soundararajan on Wednesday Speaking at an event of India expelled party worker R Today, she said: “Was India Muthuraman, who was really a giant black hole before arrested on Tuesday for May 26 2014? Did India march to damaging a statue of social progress, prosperity and greatness just four years ago? Is this reformer EV Ramaswamy – claim not an insult to the intelligence of our people.” also known as Periyar – in She said: “Our judiciary is in turmoil. RTI was brought to Vellore. bring transparency, but today that law is in cold storage. “Our party never accepts Aadhaar is being turned into intrusive instrument of such activities,” control.” She said, “We were out-marketed. We have to really Soundararajan said on Twitter. Mahatma Gandhi and BR Ambedkar’s defaced busts. develop a new style of connecting with people. We have to look There have been cases of how we project our programmes and policies.” Source: ANI KANNUR (TIP): A bust of Mahatma Gandhi was found defaced violence in parts of Tamil in Kannur district’s Taliparamba town today, the police said. The Nadu, West Bengal, and TREATMENT TOO COSTLY, spectacle carving was damaged and a garland on the statue was Tripura after statues of Lenin lying nearby,an official said, giving details of the vandalisation, the and Periyar were vandalised. WORK ON IT: SC TO GOVT latest in a series of similar incidents being reported from various Prime Minister Narendra Statue of EV Ramaswamy – parts of the country. Modi and Home Minister also known as Periyar NEW DELHI (TIP): The “exorbitant” cost of medical The Gandhi statue was close to the Taliparamba Taluk office, the Rajnath Singh on Wednesday treatment in India today drew attention of the Supreme official said, adding that a probe was on to identify those behind the asked state governments to deal with instances of vandalism Court which told the government to “do something” as the incident. “sternly”.Reports on Tuesday said Muthuraman and a people were unable to get treatment due to the “huge cost”. A CCTV visual showed the suspected man behind the incident Communist Party of India (Marxist) worker, identified as The apex court’s remarks assume significance as the walking away from the site. Some locals on the spot were reported Francis, were arrested after they damaged the bust. The Tamil National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) had as saying that they saw a man hurling a stone at the statue before Nadu Police said the two men were in an inebriated state at the recently said that non-scheduled drugs and diagnostic fleeing the spot. A complaint was received from Deputy Tahsildar time of arrest. The Tamil Nadu government told the Madras services constituted major components of charges billed to CV Prakasan, based on which investigations are on, the official High Court on Wednesday afternoon that the police had patients in four private hospitals in Delhi and National said. Yesterday, a bust of Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad arrested four people, so far. Capital Region (NCR) with margins as high as 1,192 per cent. Mookerjee was vandalised in Kolkata. The day before, a statue of Their arrest came hours after BJP leader H Raja said on As per an analysis done by the NPPA, the margin on Dalit icon BR Ambedkar was damaged in Meerut. The incidents Facebook: “Today Lenin’s statue, tomorrow Tamil Nadu’s EV procurement price of drugs used in emergency cases for came close on the heels of Communist leader Lenin’s statues being Ramaswami’s statue,” referring to an incident in Tripura, treatment of potentially life-threatening low blood pressure damaged in Tripura and Dravidan movement founder EV where a statue of communist icon Lenin was brought down, was 1,192 per cent. Ramasamy Periyar’s bust being desecrated in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. allegedly by BJP workers. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 INDIA 15 CHINESE DRAGON, INDIAN CBI registers fresh Rs 321-crore ELEPHANT MUST DANCE TOGETHER: WANG fraud case against Nirav Modi BEIJING (TIP): Chinese Foreign Minister NEW DELHI (TIP): The CBI on Wang Yi on March 8 said March 8 said it has registered a fresh CBI summons again both countries, which case against diamantaire Nirav Modi for The CBI has sent fresh summons to Nirav Modi nearly came to war over a causing a loss of Rs 321 crore to Punjab and Mehul Choksi to join probe as early as two-month military National Bank (PNB) by availing possible and made it clear that they were standoff along their border different credit facilities between 2013 “obliged” to cooperate with the probe agency, last year, should replace and 2017. officials said. This came as Choksi, in an e-mail suspicion with trust. According to a Central Bureau of reply to a CBI’s notice, said it was “impossible” for Sounding positive on him to return and join investigation due to Investigation official, the case was bilateral ties in the coming suspension of his passport and ill-health. registered following a fresh complaint. year, the minister said: Source: PTI Former finance president of Nirav “The Chinese dragon and Wang Yi, Chinese Modi’s Firestar Diamonds International Indian elephant must not Foreign Minister. Ltd Vipul Ambani, chief finance officer fight each other, but dance Ravi Gupta, other directors and officials, centrally-sourced and distributed low- declared the accounts of Firestar with each other.” and unidentified public servants of the cost biodegradable sanitary pads for Diamonds and Firestar International as India-China ties took a nosedive after their militaries bank were also named in the complaint, anyone who would care to use. fraud and reported it to the RBI on faced-off each other in their worst standoff at Doklam. he said. This is the second CBI case in The bank alleged that during its Sunday, it said. China’s opposition to a UN ban on Pakistani terrorist which Nirav has been named. internal investigation, it had spotted Nirav, along with uncle Mehul Choksi Masood Azhar and India’s entry into the Nuclear Suppliers After months of debate around circular transactions between the Nirav- of Gitanjali Group, has been accused of Group (NSG) has also tested their relationship. exempting sanitary napkins from the promoted partnership firms — Solar defrauding the PNB of Rs 12,600 crore, “Despite some tests and difficulties, the China-India Goods and Services Tax (GST) net, the Exports, Stellar Diamonds and Diamond with Rs 1,300 crore being added to the relationship continues to grow. In the process, China has government today chose the occasion of R Us — and Firestar group. fraud kitty on February 26. both upheld its legitimate rights and interests and taken care International Women’s Day to launch The head office of the bank had Source: IANS to preserve the relationship. Chinese and Indian leaders have developed a strategic vision for the future of our relations. The Chinese dragon and Indian elephant must not fight each Karti again fails other, but dance with each other,” Wang said. “China and India must do everything to empathise with to get relief in Love jihad row: Supreme Court and support each other and avoid mutual suspicion and attrition. “Mutual trust is the most precious commodity in Supreme Court China-India relations. With political trust, not even restores Hadiya's marriage Himalayas can stop from friendly exchanges. Without it, even level land cannot bring us together,” Wang said. “Let me put this to our Indian friends, our shared NEW DELHI (TIP): The Supreme Court understanding far outstrips our differences and far outweigh (SC) on March 8 restored the marriage our frictions. China is ready to forward traditional between Akhila aka Hadiya and Shafin Jahan friendship.” Source: IANS - a couple at the centre of a 'love jihad' row - but made it clear that the NIA can continue Dawood Ibrahim aide Farooq with its probe to find out if any criminality was involved in the wedlock. Takla extradited from UAE Setting aside the May 24, 2017 judgment of the Kerala HC which quashed the marriage, a NEW DELHI (TIP): bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra Twenty-five years after said Hadiya is "free to pursue her future Mumbai serial blasts, Farooq endeavours according to law" and no court Takla, who was part of the NEW DELHI (TIP): After can interfere in the marriage between two inner circle of Karachi-based the Supreme Court, for the consenting adults. Hadiya, who was born Akhila, had underworld don Dawood second time in a row, refused But the bench, which took the NIA probe her marriage annulled by the Kerala High Ibrahim, has been arrested. Court in 2017. to grant interim protection report into record, added: "We clarify that the Takla, at the behest of against the possible arrest by investigations in respect of any matter of adults marry we cannot get into correctness, Dawood Ibrahim, had given the Enforcement Directorate criminality may continue in accordance with justness.. its not fair". logistic support to the co- (ED) under the anti-money law." "Shafin Jahan is a radicalised man, a stooge accused and sent them to laundering law, Karti The judges, acting on a petition filed by of the ISIS who was trying to wean away Pakistan for training via Chidambaram rushed to the Jahan challenging the HC order, said they Hadiya to Syria under the pretext of marriage Dubai. Farooq Takla Delhi High Court for relief were reviving the marriage convinced after which is only a guise to take her away from The arrest comes ahead of the 25th anniversary of the on March 8. the interaction with Hadiya on November 27 the jurisdiction of her parents and any court," March 12, 1993, serial blasts. A Bench led by Chief last year in open courtroom during which she Shyam Diwan, senior advocate who appeared Dubai-based Yasin Mansoor Mohammed Farooq alias Justice of India Dipak Misra admitted the marriage and indicated that she for Asokan told the SC. Farooq Takla (57), who faced a Red Corner Notice of the granted Karti liberty to had exercised her free consent. The order also came on a day when Interpol, was arrested from New Delhi's Indira Gandhi approach the High Court in The Kerala HC had observed that Hadiya Additional Solicitor General Maninder Singh International Airport. the course of the day after seemed to be mentally indoctrinated and for NIA said that it had issued look-out The CBI, whose Special Task Force (STF) investigates the apprehensions were raised of needed her parents' involvement in order to circulars for two witnesses F Musthafa and S serial blasts, said that Takla was extradited from the United his arrest. make such an important decision. Shahana who "initiated" Hadiya into Islam. Arab Emirates following a request from the Government of The Supreme Court asked It also found merit in her father KM Singh urged the court not to take the case India and regular follow-ups. From New Delhi, he was flown the Chief Justice of the Asokan's statement that his daughter had lightly saying it was "not a one-off case, there to the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai. Delhi High Court to post Mr. been recruited by Islamic State's mission in was a common pattern and modus operandi In the evening, he was taken to the special court set up Karti’s case on March 9 Syria and Jahan was "only a stooge who had for luring vulnerable girls to convert to Islam under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) before an appropriate Bench. been assigned to play the role of going by feigning love and the same group of people, Act (TADA), which sent him to CBI custody till March 19. The Supreme Court said the through a marriage ceremony". who have been identified by the NIA, was "The accused participated in the criminal conspiracy as a High Court would deal with The father and the NIA raised this behind it". conspirator, perpetrator in the other case with other accused the plea for interim relief in argument in the SC too. Significantly, the HC The NIA referred to "psychological like Dawood Ibrahim, Anees Ibrahim and others," special accordance with law. had also directed 'comprehensive' kidnapping" too and said that an public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam told the court. The high-voltage hearing investigation into cases of 'love jihad' and has indoctrinated person like Hadiya may be "Farooq Takla is part of the inner circle of Dawood saw the Chief Justice take incidents of forced conversion probed incapable of giving free consent. Singh said: Ibrahim," informed sources said. strong exception to a remark thoroughly. "Investigation is almost complete except two Takla has been booked for murder, attempt to murder, by Mr. Karti’s lawyer and Asokan and NIA vehemently argued that persons who left abroad. destruction of public and private property, besides criminal senior advocate Kapil Sibal the marriage was part of a well-oiled The CJI retorted: "you can continue with conspiracy and common intention. that Additional Solicitor machinery prevailing in Kerala to your investigation, lodge FIRs, make arrests, Over the course of next 10 days, he will be questioned by General Tushar Mehta was indoctrinate vulnerable youth to embrace do whatever you want . But we cannot touch the CBI-STF, which investigates the 1993 serial blasts case. “day in and day out dictating Islam and lure them away to countries like the marriage. If the marriage is a disguise to "His custodial interrogation is necessary," CBI-STF deputy orders to the court on what to Syria but the bench was not inclined to accept commit an offence then you can proceed superintendent of police Shiv Kumar pleaded in the remand say and not to say.” the argument and said "when two consenting against the offender". note. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 16 THEATER / FILMS FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 Socially Relevant Film Festival 2018, NY BY MABEL PAIS “(This year) we have been able to incorporate films from more (countries) and have been able to hone in on specific social issues in more depth.” Nora Armani, SRFF's Founder-Artistic Director complement the film screenings as the educational component of the festival, and these touch upon such topics as editing, distribution, pitching for film projects, filming in New York from the Governor's Office for Film, Low Budget Film Production at SAG- AFTRA, Measuring the social impact of films, and others. The script writing competition features readings with actors, in the presence of the scriptwriters, from the seven finalist scripts. Other workshops and panels include industry forums, an engaged theatre workshop, a live music performance to silent films, and more. Presented with Gear VR provided by Samsung, the festival presents cutting-edge VR/360º experiences that push the boundaries of immersive storytelling. Among the six selected pieces is The Great - a VR Great White Shark Experience, which shows firsthand the grace and beauty of this misunderstood and endangered creature. Top left) Apne Aap's Ruchira Gupta with other panelists The festival will close on the evening of Founder-Director Nora Armani interview on Red Carpet Photo/ SRFF ™ on Spotlight Panel Photo/ SRFF ™ March 22 with a glistening Awards Ceremony and screening of the winning films at Cinema he SR Socially Relevant Film Festival™ incorporate films from more (countries) and Voice (Australia, New Zealand), Hot Country, Village, and party for the filmmakers at Doux 2018 New York (SRFF 2018) kicks off its have been able to hone in on specific social Cold Winter (Armenia, The Netherlands, Supperclub featuring appearances from NYC TFifth Season at Cinema Village in issues in more depth. This year's festival goes Germany). local filmmakers and industry veterans. downtown Manhattan, New York and back to basics: the filmmakers, the films, and Highlights from the selected documentary The winners of each category are awarded neighboring venues such as SVA Social the issues, with a number of interesting features include Cause of Death: Unknown special prizes in the form of trophies created Documentary Film Campus and CRS (Center partners and sponsors accompanying us." (Norway), Sands of Silence: Waves of Courage by support from individuals and film industry for Remembering and Sharing), March 16 - 22, The Official Selection to be screened in the (Mexico, USA), Shiners (Canada, Japan, USA), and professional partners. 2018. heart of Greenwich Village covers a diverse Stitching Palestine (Lebanon), Talien (Italy), Spokespersons and guests of SR Socially What is SR? mix of five narrative features, 15 Tampon, Our Closest Enemy (France). Relevant™ Film Festival NY include Amy The SR Socially Relevant™ Film Festival documentaries, 38 shorts, and more. There Themes for selected short film groupings Goodman of Democracy Now, Erin New York was founded by award-winning will also be a script-writing contest with include Ageing Gracefully,Dreamers Having a Brockovich, Martin Sheen, Pulitzer Prize and actress Nora Armani. Its mission is to shine readings from finalist scripts. The Festival Nightmare, Sustainable Communities, Where Tony award-winning writer Robert the spotlight on filmmakers who tell includes expert panels on film industry and is Home? Whose Disability? Schenkkan, prolific and best-selling French compelling, socially relevant™, human social issues. The films represent over 22 Spotlight Panel: Women | Gender novelist Marc Levy, Academy Award Nominee interest stories, across a broad range of social countries. Equality | Human Trafficking and Emmy Award Winner Guy Davidi, issues. The festival was created as a response Opening night will take place Friday, March Monday, March 19 features a keynote American TV commentator and author to the proliferation of violence and violent 16, 2018, 7:00 PM with the narrative feature evening event celebrating women, in Gretchen Carlson, and Liaison Officer of Tibet forms of storytelling in media and film Lou Andreas-Salomé: The Audacity to be partnership with Apne Aap - an organization and the Dalai Lama, Kunga Tashi. entertainment. SR™ believes in the power of Free (Germany). A stunning period piece on that rescues women and girls in India from Partner organizations and schools receive cinema in raising awareness towards social the 19th-century female novelist, poet, and sex-trafficking - including a series of films substantial discounts. Contact issues and promoting positive social change. essayist, the film follows Salomé as she shuns from India and elsewhere that promote [email protected], if interested. Festival Founder and Artistic Director Nora traditions in pursuit of intellectual perfection. empowering women and young girls. A panel For more information on the Film Festival, or to Armani says, "SRFF 2018 is very happy with Among the other selected narrative discussion follows, lead by Ruchira Gupta. purchase tickets, visit www.ratedsrfilms.org. our fifth year's selection. We have been able to feature films are: Darcy (USA), Find Your A number of workshops and panels NJSO presents MOZART'S REQUIEM

Xian Zhang conducts NJSO Montclair State University (MSU) Choir Photo/NJSO Photo/NJSO

he New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Princeton; and Sunday,March 18, at 3 pm at Mayo works showcasing the Montclair State University www.njsymphony.org/choraleyou. (NJSO) and Music Director Xian Zhang Performing Arts Center (MPAC) in Morristown. Singers under the direction of Heather J. The Orchestra hosts its annual food drive and Tpresent Mozart's Requiem, March 15-18 in Continuing a multi-year partnership with the Buchanan. will collect non-perishable food donations at all Newark, Princeton and Morristown. A trio of Curtis Institute of Music to present its finest NJSO Accents include #ChoraleYou-a "sing performances. More information is available at vocal pieces, including a pair of a cappella works student musicians, the NJSO welcomes a quartet in" in NJPAC's lobby following the March 17 www.njsymphony.org/fooddrive. performed by the Montclair State University of vocal soloists from the Institute-soprano concert, when audience members will get to give For more information on the concerts and to Singers, open the program. Emily Pogorelc, mezzo-soprano Kendra Broom, their own performance of the NJSO concert's purchase tickets online, visit Performances take place on Thursday, March tenor Roy Hage and baritone Dogukan Kuran-for opening piece-Mozart's Ave verum corpus. www.njsymphony.org, or 15, at 1:30 pm and Saturday, March 17, at 8 pm at Mozart's masterwork. Montclair State University's Heather J. call 1. 800.ALLEGRO (255.3476). the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) The program opens with Mozart's Ave verum Buchanan will conduct a brief rehearsal and (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and in Newark; Friday, March 16, at 8 pm at the corpus, followed by Joseph Rheinberger's performance that is open to all ticket-holders. Entertainment, Social Issues, Health and Richardson Auditorium (RICHAUD) in Abendlied and Ben Parry's Flame-two a cappella More information is available at Wellness, and Spirituality) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 17 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 18 BOLLYWOOD FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 SUNNY LEONE, DANIEL WEBER NOW WELCOME TWIN BABY BOYS

Raveena Tandon booked for shooting ad inside Lingaraj Temple

he authorities of Sri Lingaraj Temple have lodged an FIR against Bollywood Tactress Raveena Tandon for allegedly shooting an advertisement in the ‘No Camera Zone’ inside the premises of the 11th century and ASI protected lord Shiva shrine. The incident come to the fore after a video surfaced in social media featuring Tandon offering beauty tips inside the temple premises and it is recorded by a person with a mobile phone. She had visited the temple on Sunday. “The temple administration has filed a complaint against Raveena Tandon at Lingaraj Police Station for shooting an advertisement film in the no camera zone,” said Rajiv Lochan Sunny Leone and Daniel Weber show off their big happy family in new photo. Pic Courtesy: Instagram Parida, the management-in-charge of the temple administration. Admitting that such an FIR has been lodged, unny Leone shared an amazing, happy a family and after so many years, our family #family @sunnyleone @dirrty99 :)))). The Bhubaneswar DCP Satybrat Bhoi said the police news with her fans on Monday is now complete with Asher Singh Weber, next chapter of life !!! Karen, Nisha , Noah , are examining the allegations. Smorning. The actor revealed that she Noah Singh Weber and Nisha Kaur Weber. Asher and Me !!!!! Proud!!!!,” Daniel wrote on Only servitors are allowed to carry mobile and her husband, Daniel Weber became Our boys were born a few weeks ago but were Instagram. phones inside the temple, Parida said adding it parents to two baby boys ‘a few weeks ago.’ alive in our hearts and eyes for many years. Nisha, whom the couple adopted in July is a clear case of violation of the security Sunny called it ‘God’s plan’ in an Instagram God planned something so special for us and 2017 from Latur, Maharashtra, looks happy norms. post. “God’s Plan!! June 21st, 2017 was the day gave us a large family.We are both the proud and excited about her brothers’ arrival in the The incident has also hurt sentiments of the @dirrty99 and I found out that we might parents of three beautiful children. Surprise photo. It is not yet revealed by the couple if devotees, he said. possibly be having 3 children within a short everyone!,” she wrote in the post. the babies were adopted or born via a The Archaeological Survey of India has also amount of time. We planned and tried to have “Say Hello to Noah and Asher Weber !!! surrogate. Source: HT launched an investigation into the matter. Source: PTI BOLLYWOOD ACTOR IRRFAN KHAN SUFFERING FROM ‘RARE DISEASE’ I will be working with Salman

ollywood actor Irrfan Khan has revealed that he is suffering from a in Kick 2: Jacqueline B"rare disease". The actor took to Twitter on March 5 to talk about his illness. “Sometimes you ctor Jacqueline Fernandez, who was said wake up with a jolt with life shaking you to have been replaced in Kick 2, says if up. The last fifteen days, my life has been a Afilmmaker Sajid Nadiadwala has suspense story. Little had I known that my confirmed her presence in the upcoming film, search for rare stories would make me find then she will be starring alongside superstar a rare disease,” he wrote. Salman Khan in it. Jacqueline worked with “I have never given up and have always Salman in the blockbuster film Kick in 2014. fought for my choices and always will. My There were rumours about Jacqueline not family and friends are with me and we are starring in its sequel. However, Nadiadwala put working it out the best way possible,” he these rumours to rest in an interview last month. added. The actor asked his fans not to speculate Reacting to it, Jacqueline said: “Sajid on his condition, adding that he would In 2013, he won India's National Film Nadiadwala has confirmed then yes, I will be share more when "further investigations Award for his leading role in Paan Singh working with Salman (Khan) in Kick 2.” come with a conclusive diagnosis". Tomar. Jacqueline was interacting with media at Super Irrfan, 51, has acted in more than 100 He has also won the Viewers' Choice Fight League (SFL), as the brand ambassador of films, including Bollywood hits Piku, Award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2013 Goa Pirates team on Saturday. The actor, also a Maqbool, Haasil and Paan Singh Tomar. for the film The Lunchbox. It was also the fitness enthusiast, feels happy to bag the His English language films include Life Of only Indian film to be selected for opportunity to support the MMA Super Fight Pi, Slumdog Millionaire and The Amazing competition at the London Film Festival League. Spider-Man. that year. Source: IANS THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 HOLLYWOOD 19 ‘THE SHAPE OF WATER’ WINS BEST PICTURE OSCAR

JENNIFER LAWRENCE DEFENDS GOING NUDE FOR RED SPARROW

ctor Jennifer Lawrence has defended her to decision to do nude scenes for Red ASparrow, saying she felt it fit in the narrative of the film. The 27-year-old actor plays the Russian prima ballerina turned Soviet operative Dominika Egorova in the Francis Lawrence-directed film, which is based on a best-selling novel by former CIA agent Jason Matthews. “Red Sparrow really scared the hell out of me because I get nude. I tried to do the movie without nudity but realized it just wouldn’t be right to put the character through something that I, myself, am not willing to go through,” Lawrence said. The mother! actor, who was a victim of the 2014 phone hack in which her private nude Best Actress Frances McDormand, Best Supporting actor Sam Rockwell, Best Supporting Actress Allison Janney and Best Actor Gary photos were leaked to the internet, said she Oldman leave the press room holding their Oscars during the 90th Annual Academy Awards. feared backlash for her choice. “My biggest fear was that people would say, he Oscars went all in for a tale of a The acting Oscars went to a bevy of Award — for supporting actress — as ‘Oh, how can you complain about the hack if lady and her beloved fish-man. favorites this awards season. Frances Tonya Harding's mother in the biopic I, you’re going to get nude anyway?’,” Lawrence T McDormand received best actress for the Tonya. told Vanity Fair. Guillermo del Toro’s fantasy romance darkly comedic drama Three Billboards History was made in the writing Lawrence said that the movie presented her The Shape of Water picked up four honors Outside Ebbing, Missouri, while her co- categories: Get Out filmmaker Jordan an opportunity to reclaim her sexual — including the night’s big prize, best star Sam Rockwell was named best Peele became the first African American empowerment as she made a contrast between picture — at the 90th Academy Awards supporting actor. Gary Oldman won best to take original screenplay, and 89-year-old the hack and her choice to bare all for a film. Sunday night. Del Toro took home best actor for playing Winston Churchill in the James Ivory is now the oldest Oscar “One is my choice. I got something back that director for his film, which also won for World War II drama Darkest Hour, and winner after winning adapted screenplay was taken from me, and it also felt normal,” original score and production design. Allison Janney earned her first Academy for Call Me By Your Name. Lawrence added. EMMA WATSON FLAUNTS ‘TIME’s UP’ Jennifer Lawrence climbs TATTOO AT OSCARS AFTERPARTY

ollywood actor Emma Watson lent her over chairs at Oscars support to the Time's Up movement at Hthe Oscars afterparty as she sported a ctress Jennifer Lawrence was seen tattoo promoting the cause. The actor, hitching up her sequinned dress to however, has not commented if the tattoo is Aclimb over rows of chairs to get to permanent or temporary. The ink read 'Times her seat at the 90th Academy Awards here - Up' on her arm, missing the apostrophe for the and that too with a wine glass in hand. organisation. Lawrence, 27, dazzled in a platinum Watson, 27, has been an outspoken sequin Dior gown and strappy heels. She proponent of the Time's Up movement, which did not fall. According to reports, she hiked began after bombshell exposes revealed up her dress and raised a leg over a chair at decades of alleged sexual misconduct by the Dolby Theatre, holding her floor-length Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. The gown in one hand and a full wine glass in movement calls on people who have another. experienced sexual misconduct in the The 'Red Sparrow' star had famously workplace to speak up. A number of slipped on stage at the 2013 Oscars as she Hollywood stars, including Watson, have made her way up the stairs to accept her voiced their support and donated to the award for Best Actress in 'Silver Linings movement. Playbook'. In the following year, she tripped "There is no question that #TIMESUP on the red carpet. At this year's Oscars, should be and will be a global movement. A Lawrence and Jodie Foster presented the movement that is defined and led by those trophy for Best Actress in a Leading Role to affected by the problem, not by those in power," Frances McDormand for 'Three Billboards , Watson wrote in a recent Instagram post. Outside Ebbing, Missouri'. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 20 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 NEW YORK 21 THE INDIAN PANORAMA HOSTS A LUNCH TO CELEBRATE HOLI

CONTD FROM PAGE 3 Indian culture through her institutions Shikshayatan Cultural Center and Sriniketan Ms Vandana Sharma, Regional Manager, Foundation, Purnima Desai graced the Air India, with her sister, brother in law and occasion. nieces,Consuls from the Consulate-Mr. Neeta Bhasin, well known in the Devadasan Nair with his spouse, Mr. L. community for Diwali at Times Square was Krishnamurthy with his spouse, Mr. Vipul present. Kumar Mesariya with his spouse, and Mr. Anu Jain, a finance consultant, painter Devi Prasad Misra; Counsellar Anjani Kumar and community activist, attended the event, from Permanent Mission of India; and Mr. as did Mr. Dave Makkar and his daughter Sunil Sharma, Chief Executive of Bank of Prachi Makkar. The gathering Photos/ Nisha India, with his wife graced the occasion. Harjit (Harry) Panaser, a lobbyist, attended Dr. Ajay Lodha who was present with his with wife Dr. Manjeet and two daughters physician wife, is a past President of Ajooni Kaur and Alicia Kaur. Also present Association of American Physicians of were Tejbir Singh and his wife. Indian Origin (AAPI) International. Dr. Prominent Film maker Tirlok Malik Jagdish Gupta who attended with his attended with his wife, as did TV anchor physician wife is currently President of Ashok Vyas with his spouse. AAPI-QLI, Gunjan Rastogi, President of the Ace photographer Jay Mandal; Mr. oldest association of Indians on Long Island- Davinderpal Singh and Jaya Sharma from IALI- was present with her spouse. Also PTC TV, Sandra Peddie from NEWSDAY, present was Mr. Andy Mansukhani, President Bidisha Roy from The Indian Panorama with of Nargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Foundation. her banker and painter spouse Krish Dr. Satyajit Bhattacharya, a Molecular Sengupta, The Indian Panorama Geneticist and Cancer Research Scientist and photographer Nisha, journalist Anjali Founder, President & CEO of Harlem Sharma and photo journalist Gloria Kins also Children Society, Brooklyn, New York attended. attended. Ashok Vyas who is a writer and a poet, Dr. VK Raju, a world-renowned besides being a TV anchor recited a couple of ophthalmologist and Chairman of the Eye couplets from his compositions, much to the Foundation of America who came all the way delight of the gathering. from Morgantown, WV attended with his Also present were Mrs. and Mr. Jack physician daughter Leela Raju. Dr. Raju has Pohani with their daughter Anika and son only recently signed a MOU with Andhra Aman. Pradesh State to set up a Children's Eye Guests were full of praise for the ambience Hospital in Amaravati. of Zaika. The food and service received the The staff of Zaika A well-known educationist and promoter of appreciation of all. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 22 WORLD FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 UK terror arrests hit record levels in 2017 North Korea fires 5 short-range LONDON (TIP): The number of arrests made for terror offences in Britain hit a new record of 412 in 2017, according projectiles into sea to latest UK government figures released on March 8. This marks a rise of more than 58 per cent over the previous year, when there were 216 arrests. "This was the highest number of arrests in a year since the data collection began," the UK Home Office data notes. The arrests include 61 women, accounting for 15 per cent of total arrests, and a record number of suspects of white ethnic appearance, and 66 per cent who considered themselves to be British or dual citizens. The year 2017 witnessed 36 victims killed and hundreds injured in high-profile terrorist attacks in the country, including attacks on Parliament, Manchester Arena, London Bridge and Finsbury Park. Part of the increase in arrests was accounted for by large-scale police operations in the wake of the terror attacks. A third of the arrests resulted in a criminal charge, but not all for terror-related offences, with some people detained released without further action, on bail or under alternative measures, the figures reveal. "Of the 110 persons charged with a terrorism-related offence in the year ending 31 December 2017, 29 had been prosecuted (as at 15 January 2018, the time of data provision to the Home Office), all of which were convicted. A further 76 were awaiting prosecution, four were not proceeded against, and one case was pending," the Home Office said. As at December 31, 2017, there were 224 persons in custody in Britain for terrorism-related offences, an increase of 24 per cent on the 181 persons in custody in the previous year, continuing the upward trend seen in terrorist prisoners over the last few years. Of those in SEOUL (TIP): North Korea fired five short-range into the sea and threatened pre-emptive nuclear strikes custody last year, the majority (86 per cent) held Islamist projectiles into the sea on Monday, Seoul officials said, in a against Washington and Seoul. extremist views, a further 9 per cent held far right-wing continuation of weapon launches it has carried out in an This year's drills are the largest ever, and come after North ideologies and 5 per cent other ideologies. apparent response to ongoing South Korea-US military drills Korea conducted a nuclear test and a long-range rocket launch Police revealed the use of a variety of legal powers to it sees as a provocation. earlier this year, leading the UN Security Council to impose investigate terror suspects, including 767 stop and searches The projectiles launched from a site near the northeastern its toughest sanctions on the country in two decades. under the UK's Terrorism Act - which resulted in 61 arrests city of Hamhung flew about 200 kilometers (125 miles) before North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently ordered tests of - and more than 16,000 checks at land, sea and airports. landing in waters off North Korea's east coast, South Korea's a nuclear warhead and ballistic missiles capable of carrying There were increases in the number of arrests across all joint chiefs of staff said. such warheads. He issued the orders while overseeing what ethnic groups in Britain last year, with the largest for those The firings came three days after Seoul said North Korea state media called a successful simulated test of a re-entry of white ethnic appearance - 61 per cent, from 90 to a record launched its first medium-range missile into the sea since vehicle aimed at returning a nuclear warhead to the 145 arrests. There was also a 37 per cent increase in the early 2014, ignoring UN resolutions against such tests. atmosphere from space so it could hit its intended target. The number of arrests of Asian people (from 124 to 170), the South Korea's Yonhap news agency initially reported that a re-entry vehicle is considered one of the last major report stated. (PTI) missile had also been launched on Monday, but later changed technologies North Korea must master to develop long-range that to say projectiles had been fired. missiles equipped with nuclear weapons capable of reaching UK defends secrecy of In recent weeks, North Korea has stepped up its bellicose the US mainland. rhetoric, threatening pre-emptive nuclear strikes against Analysts in South Korea said the medium-range missile Operation Blue Star files Washington and Seoul and firing short-range missiles and launch last Friday may have been a test of the re-entry artillery into the sea. technology.North Korean state media have not commented on LONDON (TIP): Senior civil servants from the UK's The firings appear to be North Korea's response to annual the reported launch. Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) today gave springtime US-South Korean military exercises that it says South Korean defense officials say North Korea doesn't yet evidence in a closed tribunal session to explain the reasons are a rehearsal for an invasion. Earlier this month, North have functioning intercontinental ballistic missiles. over some Cabinet Office files related to 1984's Operation Korea fired several short-range missiles and artillery shells (Agencies) Blue Star not being made public over 30 years later. A three- day hearing of the First Tier Tribunal(Information Rights) opened here, with a bulk of the session being held in secret as FCO officials explained their stand that the declassification of the files posed a threat to national security and international relations with India. China eyes greater global "It is quite unusual that we are not allowed to be part of our own appeal," said a spokesperson for KRW Law, the human rights law firm that has undertaken the Freedom of Information (FOI) appeal on behalf of UK-based freelance leadership role, downplays fears journalist Phil Miller on a pro bono basis. "Our understanding is that the BJP government of India has no BEIJING (TIP): The world can only efforts to push for peace talks in President Donald Trump would hurt the objection to these files being made public. Yet, the British benefit as China marches toward Myanmar and between Israeli and U.S. government continues to argue in favour of them "irresistible" national rejuvenation and Palestinian delegations, for instance, "Especially in today's globalized remaining classified despite an overwhelming public assumes greater global leadership under represented a shift in its longstanding world, a trade war is the wrong interest in them," the spokesperson said. Miller's initial FOI President Xi Jinping, China's top non-interference foreign policy. prescription," he said. request was turned down by the UK Cabinet Office, a diplomat said Thursday as he sought to China remains committed to non- Wang emphasized what he called the decision upheld by the UK Information Commissioner in dismiss concerns about China's rise interference, Wang said, arguing that key role played in China's more pro- 2015. while also underscoring its inevitability. those in the West who are alarmed by active foreign policy by President Xi The appeal this week is aimed at declassifying the secret From providing the most China's growing clout and overseas Jinping, who is likely to remain leader files, which Miller believes could lead to further evidence of peacekeepers of any U.N. Security activity are affected by bias. indefinitely after the legislature lifts British involvement in advising the Indian government and Council member to facilitating talks in "The development and rejuvenation presidential term limits. its forces in the military operation at the Golden Temple in world conflicts, "the China of today of China is irresistible," Wang said. "Since 2012, President Xi Jinping has Amritsar, in order to secure trade and arms deals worth should play a more active role in "Some people in the United States been the chief architect of China's billions of pounds. "Disclosing documents from three resolving hot issues in the region and believe that China therefore wants to major-country diplomacy. He was decades ago will not harm diplomatic relations," said the world," Chinese Foreign Minister replace the role of the U.S. in the personally involved in the planning and Miller, the author of the report titled 'Sacrificing Sikhs: The Wang Yi said. "This is not only international arena. This is a conduct of head of state diplomacy, Need for an Investigation' released last year. In 2014, some something we should do, but what is fundamental, strategic misjudgment." which by world acclaim has been UK government documents declassified under the 30-year widely expected of us." "China and the United States can brilliant," Wang said. rule to make such material public had revealed that British Wang spoke on the fringes of China's compete without necessarily being Xi has visited 57 countries and military advice was given to Indian forces prior to annual, largely ceremonial legislative opponents, they should more be received more than 110 foreign heads of Operation Blue Star to flush out militants holed up in the session at a news conference, where he partners," he added, while warning that state, Wang said, citing Xi's "leadership Sikh holy shrine. (PTI) was asked whether China's recent a possible trade war mulled by and charisma." (AP) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 WORLD 23 EU's Tusk: No Brexit progress Kurdish, Arab fighters without Irish border solution LONDON (TIP): European Council President Donald Tusk has warned that there can't be progress toward a post- drop Islamic State fight to Brexit trade deal until the issue of the Irish border is resolved. Tusk says that until Britain presents a plan to keep the defend Syria’s Afrin all-but-invisible border open, "it is very difficult to imagine substantive progress in Brexit negotiations." QAMISHLI (SYRIA) (TIP): Britain and the EU agreed in December that there must Hundreds of miles away from family be no customs posts or other impediments along the border and friends facing an attack by Turkey, between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. But Kurdish and Arab forces deployed in the they have not agreed on how to do it. eastern Syrian desert against jihadists Britain has rejected the EU's suggestion, which is to keep have become increasingly frustrated. Northern Ireland inside the bloc's customs union. Six weeks into the Turkey-led assault Speaking Thursday alongside Irish Prime Minister Leo on the Kurdish enclave of Afrin, young Varadkar in Dublin, Tusk said Britain must propose "a men and women are leaving the fight specific and realistic solution to avoid a hard border." (AP) against the Islamic State group in droves to head west to help. Iraqi teenager held for 'bomb Kurdish militia have formed the backbone of the Syrian Democratic attack plot' in Germany or Britain Forces (SDF), an alliance that has successfully expelled IS from much of BERLIN (TIP): Germany has remanded in custody a 17- Syria with the backing of a US-led year-old Iraqi suspected of having planned an explosives military coalition. attack for the Islamic State jihadist group in Germany or But as news of the battle in Afrin Britain, prosecutors said on March 8. reaches them, the fighters have become The teenager, identified only as Deday A., hoarded a large reluctant to hunt down jihadists in their amount of pyrotechnics at his home and allegedly planned last hideouts in Deir Ezzor province. to use the black powder to make an explosive device, said "We're preparing to head to Afrin," More than 170 civilians have died in said he would also join the fight on the federal prosecutors. SDF fighter Roshavam Qamishlo told the assault, says the Syrian Observatory Turkish border. The suspect, who was first arrested on February 13 in the AFP on Saturday. The enclave "needs us for Human Rights, a Britain-based "We all want to go," said the 25-year- state of Hesse, faced a judge Wednesday who ordered him now more than ever". monitor. old, who sported a thick beard and remanded in pre-trial custody on charges of having He spoke at the funeral of three Ankara however denies the claim and whose head was wrapped in a bright planned an attack. comrades-in-arms in the northeastern says it takes the "utmost care" to avoid blue scarf. "The accused is alleged to have procured explosives to town of Qamishli, where dozens came to civilian casualties. "We're highly capable and will take on commit an Islamist attack in Germany or Britain," the pay their respects to those killed in Deir The offensive has prompted a call-to- the Turks even without the coalition's prosecutors said in a statement, adding that he was a Ezzor. arms for the YPG and SDF, and one help." Fighter Al-Ashqar Nuseen feared suspected member of IS. German authorities have been on "They should have died in Afrin," he senior SDF official says "hundreds of losing Afrin could be a huge blow to his heightened alert since IS claimed a lorry assault on a Berlin said, as their coffins were displayed in fighters from Afrin and who have long-awaited dreams of a federal Syrian Christmas market in December 2016 which killed 12 people. the middle of the crowd, draped in the relatives there have returned to defend" Kurdish region. Dozens of suspects have been arrested or charged over Kurdish colours of yellow, red and their people. "We will defend Afrin with all our alleged terror plots. (AFP) green. As a result, the US-led coalition might, taking on the Turks like we did Arab fighters, too, have opted to ditch declared an "operational pause" to its Daesh," he said, using an Arabic Germany to get new foreign battlefronts against IS to shore up lines anti-IS fight in eastern Syria on Monday. acronym for IS. of defence in Afrin. US and coalition officials have said Ali Omar, 65, a Syrian Kurdish minister as Gabriel loses job On Tuesday, SDF commander Abu they will not get involved in the Afrin bystander at the funeral in Qamishli, Omar al-Idlibi said 1,700 of his fighters - fighting and expressed concern it would said he supported the Kurdish fighters BERLIN: Germany’s Sigmar Gabriel, foreign minister - mostly Arabs from northern Syria detract from the SDF's operations withdrawing from Deir Ezzor. for the last year, confirmed on Thursday that he would not whose families had sought refuge in against IS. In addition to reinforcements "When it's our interests, our people, be a member of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s new Afrin -- would be sent to defend the from IS battlefronts, other fighters have our villages and our towns that are government. enclave in the coming week. streamed into Afrin from Qamishli, threatened, we're forced to leave Merkel’s conservatives and the Social Democrats (SPD) Afrin, which is controlled by the Hasakeh in the northeast and Kobane everything and head to defend our agreed in their coalition talks that the SPD will retain Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) further west, says Rezan Hedo, an homeland," he said. control of the Foreign Ministry and the party has said it militia, is one of three regions Syria's adviser to the YPG in Afrin. But he questioned why the US-led will announce who the minister will be on Friday. Kurds hope will be part of a self-ruled Others even travelled from the coalition, which the Kurds have aided in The frontrunners are Heiko Maas, 51, justice minister in federal region in the country's north. Kurdish neighbourhood of Sheikh its fight against IS in Syria, had not the last ‘grand coalition’, and Katarina Barley, 49, who has Turkey sees the YPG as a "terrorist" Maqsud in the northern city of Aleppo, intervened to help the Kurds in Afrin. been family minister since 2017 with a strong interest in group and has bombarded the region Hedo tells AFP. "Why are we helping you in Deir Ezzor European affairs and whose father is British. with air strikes and artillery fire since In Qamishli, another fighter who gave and other places, and you don't help us Maas brought in new laws forcing social media January 20. his nom de guerre as Nushin Qamishlo in Afrin?" (AFP) companies like Facebook and Twitter to remove hate speech from their sites and is a vocal critic of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Saudi women take the S. Korea leader sees more obstacles Gabriel, a former leader of the SPD, said the party’s new leaders, Olaf Scholz and Andrea Nahles, had told him he wheel, test-driving a ahead to disarm N. Korea would not be part of the government due to be sworn in next week. The move is no surprise, partly because he is new freedom SEOUL (TIP): South Korea's president said on March 8 that many "critical known to have a tense relationship with Nahles. moments" still lie ahead to end the nuclear crisis despite North Korea's recent Tensions between the two spiked last month when JIDDAH (TIP): In a few short months, outreach to Seoul and Washington. Moon Jae-in spoke before two senior Seoul Gabriel complained publicly that he learned from the women in Saudi Arabia will be allowed to officials left for the United States to brief officials about the outcome of their media that Martin Schulz, the party’s previous leader, take the wheel _ but first there's driver's ed. recent visit to North Korea. The Seoul officials said North Korea offered talks would take over as foreign minister. Schulz subsequently At a university in Jiddah, dozens of with the United States over normalizing ties and denuclearization of the withdrew from the post and the leadership role. women who have never driven before are Korean Peninsula. Seoul said the North also agreed to suspend nuclear and In his statement on Thursday, Gabriel struck a more learning to buckle up, check their mirrors missile tests during such future talks. gracious tone, saying it had been a “big honour for which I and gently brake. Like first-time drivers Some experts question how sincere North Korea is about its reported offers, am deeply grateful” to serve his party and his country. anywhere, they are giddy with citing what they call its track record of using past disarmament talks to wrest “It was an exciting and eventful time which opened up anticipation, and perhaps a bit nervous, as aid and concessions while covertly continuing its bomb program. big opportunities and experiences that went way beyond they look forward to gaining a new level of According to the South Korean officials, North Korea said it has no reason what I would dared to dream of as a younger person,” he freedom. to possess nuclear weapons as long as military threats against the country are said on Facebook. A stunning royal decree issued last year removed and its security is guaranteed. That's the same positon North Korea Before taking over the Foreign Ministry, he had been by King Salman announcing that women has long maintained to justify its nuclear program or call for the withdrawal economy minister where he oversaw renewable energy would be allowed to drive in 2018 upended of 28,500 U.S. troops and a halt to annual U.S.-South Korean military drills as a reforms. one of the most visible forms of condition for scrapping its nuclear program. The North sees the allies' drills as Respected by some for plain speaking and taking a clear discrimination against women in Saudi an invasion rehearsal. "We've overcome one critical moment. But there are stance with countries including Saudi Arabia and Turkey, Arabia, where guardianship laws still give many critical moments that we still have to go through before reaching the he was also widely seen as something of a loose cannon. He men the final say on whether a woman can denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and a permanent peace," Moon said is know for changing his mind on issues, such as on travel abroad, obtain a passport or marry. in a meeting with church leaders. (AP) migrant policy and on phasing out coal. (Reuters) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 24 WOMEN FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 FOODS FOR GLOWING SKIN Avocado TINDER MAKES IT EASY Packed with antioxidants like lutein and beta carotene, avocados help soften the skin as well as hydrate it if applied FOR YOUTH TO CHEAT topically. You can use a moisturising mask of avocado with 1 teaspoon honey to reap the benefits of this super fruit. You’ll feel the difference instantly! You can also check our interesting recipes to include avocado ON THEIR PARTNERS in your daily diet; perhaps, combine avocado with orange juice as a salad dressing or mix it up with cilantro and cumin he popular dating app Tinder, for a dip or a sauce for a creamy portion of pasta. which is supposed to help people Tform new relationships, is Oranges increasingly helping youngsters cheat on their romantic partners, a study The peel of the orange, claims. However, the app also makes it actually contains more vitamin easier to catch cheaters, researchers C than the orange itself. The peel said. Scientists from the Texas Tech contains antimicrobial and University in the US showed that a antibacterial properties so using significant number of college students it regularly in face packs will are using Tinder to meet what they give you clear and brighter skin called “extradyadic partners” - that is, in no time. What's in season will a partner outside of and in addition to make your skin glow. Orange peel and yoghurt face pack can the partner in a committed, romantic instantly rejuvenate your skin; all you need is 1 tablespoon of relationship. orange peel powder and 2 tablespoon of yoghurt to do the “A couple of years ago, one of my trick. You can also add 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder students shared the story that she had and 1 tablespoon of walnut powder to 1 tablespoon of orange come across a friend’s boyfriend on peel powder with a few drops of lemon juice and rose water Tinder, and she was not sure whether to get bright skin. she should tell her friend,” said Dana Weiser, an assistant professor at Texas Pumpkin Tech. “So, although Tinder may make Pumpkins have it all - antioxidants, vitamins (A and C) and it easy to meet potential partners, the minerals. Pumpkins are rich in zinc which is vital in the potential for exposure may be high,” creation of new skin cells, and also helps regulate oil Weiser said. production, improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of Among the 550 undergraduate open pores. All you have to do is eat a handful of pumpkin students who participated in the study, seeds to brighten your complexion and get the glow you’ve 12.5 per cent had spent time with always wanted. You can also apply a DIY face mask of 3 someone they met on Tinder, 17.1 per using Tinder to find partners outside person’s likelihood to cheat on a teaspoons pumpkin, ½ teaspoon honey and ½ teaspoon milk cent had messaged someone on Tinder, their relationships, many of these partner: willingness and intention to for 15-20 minutes. 8.9 per cent had been physically same participants said they were not engage in infidelity. “We expected that intimate and 7.2 per cent reported sure Tinder was a good way to do so. these same personality traits that Tomato having sexual relations with someone “The participants are quite mixed predict in-person infidelity would also Tomatoes are packed with natural vitamins and minerals, they met on Tinder while in an though as to whether Tinder is an be associated with engaging in including Vitamin A, K, B1, B3, exclusive relationship. effective way to meet extradyadic infidelity via Tinder,” Weiser said. “We B5, B6, B7, and vitamin C. But “We know infidelity is quite common partners,” Weiser said. found those traits were more what makes tomatoes stand out among college-aged adults as they grow “This may be because, while it is important for predicting infidelity in the beauty world, is lycopene, and learn about relationships, not to easy to meet individuals via Tinder, it than gender. Basically,men and women an antioxidant which has mention there is quite a bit of may also be very easy to get caught, as looked very similar when we amazing anti-ageing properties. opportunity,” Weiser said. “Our results a percentage of our participants also accounted for personality,” he said. You can apply the pulp or juice are consistent with previous research indicated they saw people who they Researchers emphasised that it is of tomatoes on your skin to and suggest Tinder may be one way knew were in relationships on Tinder,” unclear if Tinder is actually activate the lycopene benefits. college students meet extradyadic she said. increasing rates of infidelity or simply And if this couldn’t get any better, the pulp of tomatoes also partners,” he said. Ironically, although Researchers found two personality giving people a different way to meet helps tighten pores and prevent pimples since tomatoes are the numbers show college students are traits they said could predict a extradyadic partners. Source: PTI acidic in nature. It also acts as a natural sunscreen. FOOD CORNER SPICY CHICKEN MASALA MATAR PANEER MASALA Ingredients Ingredients 1 Cup Peas, 2 Nos Onions, 2 Cups Oil, 12-13 Paneer Cubes, 2 2 Tbsp Mustard oil, 2 Tbsp Curry leaves, 1 tsp Kalonjee, 1 tsp Nos Bay Leaves, 1 tsp Cumin Seeds, 1 tsp Ginger- Garlic Paste, Saunf, 2 tsp Garlic, 1 Cup Onion, chopped, 1 Cup Tomatoes, 1 tsp Salt, 1 tsp Turmeric Powder, 1 tsp Coriander Powder, 1/2 chopped, 1/2 tsp Ginger, 5 Nos Green Chillies, 1 Kg Boneless tsp Red Chilli Powder, 1 Green Chilli , chopped, 1/2 Cup Tomato Chicken, 1 tsp Salt, 1 tsp Tomato puree, 1 Tbsp Red chilli pureed, 1 tsp Coriander Leaves, 1 tsp Garam Masala powder, 1 tsp Cumin powder, 1 tsp Black salt, 1 tsp Peppercorn (crushed), 1 Cup Water, 1 Tbsp Mint, 1 Cup Coriander Method Method In a bowl of boiling water add peas to soften them. Boil long chopped onions in water for better grinding. Turn off the flame Heat mustard oil in a pan. and grind it to a fine paste. Heat oil in a pan and deep fry the Add curry leaves and fry on a low flame. Mix the chicken thoroughly to coat it well with the paneer cubes. Take out the fried curry leaves and put kalonjee, saunf masala. In a heavy bottomed pan heat a tablespoon of oil and add bay and garlic in the same oil. Roast them together until Add some salt and tomato puree. Stir well. leaves and cumin seeds. When they crackle add ginger garlic yellowish-brown. paste and onion paste. Mix well and cook for a minute. Bring to simmer, and add red chilli powder, cumin Now add chopped onion and mix them until golden powder, black salt and crushed peppercorn. Mix well. Now add the spices such as salt, turmeric powder, coriander brown. powder and red chilli powder. Put the chopped green chilli and Add a cup of water and let it cook till simmer. Add tomato puree, ginger and green chillies to the pan mix thoroughly to combine the masalas well. Cook until oil and mix well. Put a cup of mint leaves followed by coriander leaves. starts separating spices and releases aroma. Now add the Mix thoroughly. tomato puree and cook on medium flame for thorough mixing Cover the pan and let it cook for a while. of ingredients. Add the fried curry leaves in the end. Mix well and cook Now open the pan and add the boneless chicken pieces till simmer. Now add peas and fried paneer to it. Stir with light hands and to the cooked masala. coat them well with the gravy. Serve hot with little garnishing of coriander leaves. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 HEALTH & FITNESS 25 NOVEL BLOOD TEST MAY DETECT ZIKA MORE ACCURATELY

new blood test may extend the window of accurate detection Afrom weeks to months after the onset of Zika infection, giving clinicians a powerful new tool to screen for Zika throughout pregnancy, a new study led by an Indian-orgin researcher suggests. Infection with Zika virus during pregnancy raises risk for neurodevelopmental problems in the offspring, including fetal microcephaly - - a condition in which a baby’s head is significantly smaller than expected -- in at least one in ten pregnancies. The blood test called ZIKV-NS2B- concat ELISA improves on existing options, providing an accurate and cost- effective means to determine whether a BRISK WALKING MAY patient was infected, days or months after exposure, the researcher said. REDUCE HEART FAILURE “Many people infected by Zika have only mild illness, or are unable to see a clinical settings, the researcher said. “An unique peptide sequence -- a short section clinician in the early, acute phase of affordable and accurate test for Zika of amino acids -- that binds with RISK IN OLDER WOMEN infection. Our new test greatly extends virus is critical for public health,” said W. antibodies to Zika virus but not with NEW YORK (TIP): Older women who find it difficult to the window during which an individual Ian Lipkin, co-author of the study antibodies to similar viruses like dengue, hit the gym or follow a workout routine may now ward off can be assessed with accuracy,” said published in the journal mBio. To yellow fever, and Japanese encephalitis. their risk of developing heart failure by taking brisk walks, Nischay Mishra from the Center for develop and evaluate the test, the Next, the researchers customised a low- finds a study. Infection and Immunity (CII) at researchers analysed blood samples cost testing technology called enzyme- Heart failure—a condition in which the heart becomes too Columbia University. collected from children in the linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to weak to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs—rises The blood test quickly detects up to 200 Nicaraguan Pediatric Dengue Cohort work with the sequence-improving on with age The study found that women above 60 years of age samples in four hours and the Study, all of whom had previously tested current versions of the ELISA test which were three times more prone to heart failure risk. researchers anticipate its cost will be positive for Zika virus. use larger sections proteins that bind to The paper presented in at the American College of similar to other ELISA tests used in Using a microarray, they identified a the virus. Source: IANS Cardiology's 67th Annual Scientific Session, noted that post- menopausal women who walk for 40 minutes or more at a time had a 21 to 25 per cent lower risk of heart failure than those taking shorter walks. Women walking at an average or fast pace showed a 26 and Listening to music may help you exercise 38 per cent lower risk of heart failure, respectively,compared with women who walked at a casual pace. "We already know that physical activity lowers the risk of heart failure, but there may be a misconception that simply walking isn't enough," said Somwail Rasla, cardiology longer and more regularly, finds study student at Saint Vincent Hospital in Massachusetts. "Our analysis shows walking is not only an accessible form istening to music while exercising of exercise but almost equal to all different types of exercise can help you work out for a longer that have been studied before in terms of lowering heart Ltime than those who do not have failure risk" Rasla added. music playing in their ears, a team of The study examined he benefits of walking by parsing the researchers has suggested. effects of walking frequency, duration and speed in 89,000 Music can have a powerful impact on women over a more than 10-year period, between 50 to 79 our mood, signalling the brain to release years of age. feel-good and energy-boosting Researchers also assessed the women's overall energy chemicals. Being inactive or not expenditure from walking by combining all three of these exercising ranks alongside high blood variables into a calculation known as Metabolic Equivalent pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and of Task (MET). obesity as one of the five major risk Those in the highest tertile for MET per week were 25 per factors for cardiovascular disease. cent less likely to develop heart failure compared with those “At least on a small scale, this study in the lowest tertile. Source: IANS provides some evidence that music may help serve as an extra tool to help motivate someone to exercise more, which is critical to heart health,” said PAGE SPONSORED BY lead author Waseem Shami, cardiology fellow at Texas Tech University Health DR. SATISH AND GITANJLI ANAND Sciences in the US. For the study, to be presented at the DR. SATISH ANAND American College of Cardiology’s 67th Former Chairman, Board of Annual Scientific Session in Orlando, Trustees, AAPI National the team randomly selected 127 heart E-Mail: patients in two groups for a routine respectively – an absolute difference of “Our findings reinforce the idea that [email protected] electrocardiogram (ECG) treadmill about 50.6 seconds. upbeat music has a synergistic effect in stress test and assigned to either listen Adults need to get at least 30 minutes terms of making you want to exercise to up-tempo music or have no music of moderate (aerobic) activity most longer and stick with a daily exercise GITANJLI ANAND playing during their stress tests. days, including taking a brisk walk, routine,” Shami said. “When doctors Former President, India The results showed that the exercise swimming, playing tennis, riding a are recommending exercise, they might Association of Long Island time was significantly longer in the bicycle, dancing, water aerobics, suggest listening to music too,” he (IALI) music group compared with the control gardening and even busy housework, noted. E-mail: group, 505.8 versus 455.2 seconds, experts suggested. Source: IANS [email protected] THE INDIAN PANORAMA 26 SCIENCE & TECH FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 FACEBOOK BRINGS VIDEO CHAT TO MESSENGER LITE YOUR SMARTPHONE IS DAMAGING ENVIRONMENT

TORONTO (TIP): Smartphones and data centres will be the most damaging information and communications technologies to the environment by 2040, warns a new study. For the study, the researchers studied the carbon footprint of consumer devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, desktops as well as data centres and communication networks. Their findings, published in the Journal of Cleaner Production, showed ICT has a greater impact on emissions SAN FRANCISCO (TIP): Facebook has introduced video than previously thought and most chat in Messenger Lite, a slimmed down version of emissions come from production and Messenger for Android intended for people with older operation. devices and/or slower Internet connections. "Today, it sits at about 1.5 per cent. If Messenger Lite is under 10MB, making it fast to install trends continue, ICT will account for as and quick to start up. much as 14 per cent for the total global It offers core messaging capabilities like sending text, footprint by 2040, or about half of the photos, links, and audio calls to people with either entire transportation sector worldwide," that by 2020, the most damaging devices and telecommunications companies Messenger Lite or Messenger. said Lotfi Belkhir, Associate Professor at to the environment will be smartphones. make it easy for people to acquire a new "Now people who use Messenger Lite can have the same W Booth School of Engineering Practice While smartphones consume little one every two years. We found that by rich and expressive face-to-face conversations as those who and Technology, McMaster University, energy to operate, 85 per cent of their 2020 the energy consumption of a use the core Messenger app, no matter which technology Canada. emissions impact comes from smartphone is going to be more than they use or have access to," Facebook said in a statement late "For every text message, for every production. that of PCs and laptops," Belkir said. on Wednesday. phone call, every video you upload or A smartphone's chip and motherboard Belkir has made policy To use video chats on Messenger Lite, users need to open download, there's a data centre making require the most amount of energy to recommendations based on his findings. an existing conversation or find the person they would like this happen. Telecommunications produce as they are made up of precious "Communication and data centres to chat with in their contact list, then tap the video icon on networks and data centres consume a lot metals that are mined at a high cost, the have to go under renewable energy now. the upper right corner of the screen. of energy to serve you and most data study said. The good news is Google and Facebook You can also upgrade an audio call to a video chat while centres continue to be powered by Smartphones also have a short life data centres are going to run on still in the call by tapping the video icon in the bottom right electricity generated by fossil fuels. It's that drives further production of new renewable energy. But there needs to be corner of the screen, Facebook said. the energy consumption we don't see," models and an extraordinary amount of a policy in place so that all data centres Video chats are an expected and essential part of everyday Belkhir added. waste. follow suit," Belkir said. communication in today's messaging experience. Among all the devices, trends suggest "Anyone can acquire a smartphone, Source: IANS This form of communication is incredibly popular for people who use the Messenger core app. In 2017, there were 17 billion video chats in Messenger, twice as many video chats compared to 2016. Source: IANS Google’s ‘Learn with AI’ machine learning Samsung 4K QLED TVs with Bixby voice control launched course now available for everyone second Nor’easter that hit the storm-weary US East Coast in less than a week with heavy snowfall, power oogle has launched “Learn with Aoutages and crippled transportation on Wednesday Google AI” -- a set of educational WOMEN’S DAY: GOOGLE LAUNCHES did not deter Samsung Electronics from unveiling its next- Gresources developed by Machine generation 4K QLED TVs that are set to redefine our living Learning (ML) experts at the company,for rooms. people to learn about concepts, develop ‘HERSTORYOURSTORY’ CAMPAIGN The new line-up of flagship QLED (Quantum dot Light skills and apply Artificial Intelligence Emitting Diode) TVs - including the 85-inch, 8K Artificial (AI) to real-world problems. Intelligence (AI)-powered TV - houses an “Ambient Mode” “Learn with Google AI” comes with feature that mimics the pattern on the wall behind the TV to existing content as well as the new create a visual effect, in which the TV blends seamlessly into Machine Learning Crash Course (MLCC). the wall like a chameleon. “We believe it’s important that the To achieve this effect, download the “Samsung development of AI reflects as diverse a SmartThings” app on your smartphone and take a picture of range of human perspectives and needs the wall. Samsung SmartThings app is available for both iOS as possible. So, Google AI is making it and Android devices. easier for everyone to learn ML by The app then sends the image to the wall-mounted TV and providing a huge range of free, in-depth figures out how to fill the screen with that image. educational content,” Zuri Kemp, In a demonstration, this left only the TV frame to be Programme Manager for Google’s visible, and the screen seamlessly merged with the colour of machine learning education, said in a the wall. statement. iming to celebrate women’s The campaign will showcase “Ambient Mode” also provides useful information “This is for everyone -- from deep ML voices and uncover their stories of trials, hope and success of throughout the day like weather reports and important news experts looking for advanced developer A inspiring stories of trials, women across India. of the day etc, even when someone is not actively watching tutorials and materials, to curious people hope and success in everyday life, “Many studies show that one of the TV. who are ready to try to learn what ML is Google India on Tuesday launched the major barriers that prevent With the intelligence platform “Bixby,” you can use voice in the first place,” Kemp added. #HerStoryOurStory campaign ahead women in India from growing is the commands to ask for your favourite movies or songs -- along The course features videos from ML of International Women’s Day. lack of relatable and realistic role with controlling compatible Internet of Things (IoT) home experts at Google, interactive As part of the campaign, Google models from a similar background. devices like a robotic vacuum cleaner or cameras inside visualisations illustrating ML concepts, will be sharing woman hero stories “We are committed to empowering your home. coding exercises using cutting-edge through online videos, putting women, across both urban and rural “Our 2018 line-up of televisions are most innovative and TensorFlow APIs and a focus that teaches spotlight on women who have not India, by investing in providing sophisticated yet, designed for today’s consumer who is how practitioners implement ML in the just fought societal, cultural and access to tools and skill sets required mindful of the aesthetics of their space,” Jonghee Han, real world. economic barriers to achieve their to grow and succeed,” Sapna President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Originally developed by Google’s dreams but are also redefining Chadha, Director Marketing (SEA Electronics, told the gathering during the launch event at the engineering education team, more than women’s role in the society and and India) Google, said in a American Stock Exchange here. 18,000 Googlers have enrolled in MLCC so business through technology. statement. Source: IANS far. Source: IANS THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 BIZ & FINANCE 27

WORLD BANK WARNS TRUMP Bank fraud: Impossible to return to TO BE ‘CAREFUL’ ON TARIFFS BRUSSELS (TIP): The chief executive of the World Bank urged US President India, Mehul Choksi tells CBI Donald Trump on Thursday to be "careful" before imposing NEW DELHI (TIP): Gitanjali Gems entire reports being published in controversial steel and promoter Mehul Choksi, who is under newspapers, various statements made aluminium tariffs, warning the scanner of investigating agencies by members of various political parties that they could affect global following a complaint by the Punjab and the trial by media has therefore left trade. National Bank, has said it was me remediless and therefore a bias has Kristalina Georgieva said impossible for him to return to India and been caused against me. Trump should "assess the join the investigation due to the "The different media reports portray implications" before going suspension of his passport and ill- as if I have already been convicted by ahead with a plan that has sparked fears of a trade war with health. the courts of India. They have caused China and Europe and spooked world markets. In a detailed e-mail reply to the CBIs great prejudice to my fundamental The Bulgarian former EU commissioner said that her notice seeking his appearance, Choksi rights enshrined by the Constitution of message to Trump, who is expected to sign off on the tariffs said he was not in a position to travel as India. Right to life and right to fair trail later Wednesday, was to make a "careful assessment before his passport has been suspended by the are quintessential fundamental rights taking any further step". authorities and he was undergoing guaranteed by the Constitution. The "If you take a step for a reason then you need to project on medical treatment. various news reports and publications a couple of steps for the implications," Georgieva told a small "I want to assure your good office and against me violate those rights," he said, group of media outlets including AFP in Brussels. "Assess good self that I am in no manner adding that multiple probe agencies what are the implications and then advise about these dictating the terms of my appearance. were after his life in a "gross abuse of implications." Mehul Choksi However, as my passport stands process of law". The EU has vowed to retaliate against the tariffs with its suspended by the Regional Passport of four to six months," he said. Choksi and designer diamond own measures targeting not only US steel but also products Office under Section 10(3)(c) of the The letter said he was being jewellery businessman Nirav Modi and such as bourbon whiskey, jeans, motorcycles, orange juice Passport Act, it is impossible for me to threatened by the individuals with others are being investigated by the CBI and cranberries. travel back to India," the 7-page letter whom he has business relationship and and ED after the bank fraud recently Georgieva, whose organisation specialises in lending said. due to the seizure of his assets, his came to light, following a complaint by money to poor countries, added that Trump should take a He said that on February 16, 2018, he employees, customers and creditors the PNB that they had allegedly cheated "carefully calibrated approach to what happens in world had received an e-mail from the Passport have started to show animosity towards the nationalised bank to the tune of Rs trade". Source: AFP Office which stated that his passport has him. 12,000 crore, with the purported been suspended due to the reason "I am concerned about my health and involvement of a few employees of the GOVT EASES NORMS FOR Security Threat to India, however, the well-being. In case I am arrested, then I bank Regional Passport Office, Mumbai, did would not be able to get proper The CBI and the ED have registered E-WAY BILL GENERATION not give him any explanation as to why healthcare and would be provided two FIRs each to probe the case. Both his passport was suspended and as to treatment only in a government Choksi and Modi are said to have left the NEW DELHI (TIP): The government has changed e-way how he was a security threat. hospital. I would be further denied country before criminal cases were bill rules which are expected to help e-commerce companies "I am also not in a position to travel treatment in a private hospital," he said. lodged against them. They have, in smooth transportation of goods and ease the method of due to my persisting health problem. I Choksi also alleged that the issue was however, denied any wrongdoing. calculating the value of goods. had a cardiac procedure which was being "politicised" and the media was The ED, a central probe agency under The government has notified changes in rules of e-way bill conducted in the first week of February conducting a trial which was causing the union finance ministry, is which includes permitting even job workers to generate the 2018 and there is still pending work to be great prejudice to his fundamental investigating if the allegedly defrauded electronic receipt for movement of goods. done on the same. The entire procedure rights. bank funds were laundered and proceeds Electronic way or e-way bill will be required from April 1 could not be completed on all veins due "Various political parties in India of crime were subsequently used by the for transporting goods valued over Rs 50,000 between states. to danger to kidney and therefore I am have been politicising the issue with a accused to create illegal assets and black In a major relief to FMCG companies, the government has not allowed to travel for at least a period view to glorify their own interests. The money. Source: PTI allowed businesses to consider only the value of taxable supply for the purpose of generating e-way bill in cases where sales invoice includes both exempted and taxable supply of goods. This would mean that if food products Mukesh Ambani richest Indian, Jeff which are subject to GST are being sent along with items that are exempt from the tax, say milk, then only the value of food products shall be considered for e-way bill. Besides, to help smaller businesses operate within a Bezos tops Forbes world’s rich list particular state, it has said vehicle details will not be required in case of movement of goods up to 50 km (between NEW YORK (TIP): Mukesh the consigner/consignee and transporter place). The limit Ambani’s net worth has soared to $40.1 was 10 km earlier, said tax consultancy firm PwC. billion, making him the richest Indian Source: PTI for the 11th year in a row, while Amazon founder Jeff Bezos toppled Bill Gates as the world’s wealthiest person, says COCA-COLA PLANS TO LAUNCH Forbes. According to Forbes’ 2018 ‘World’s FIRST ALCOHOLIC DRINK Billionaires’ list, Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani’s wealth LOS ANGELES/TOKYO (TIP): Coca-Cola Co., which has surged a whopping 72.84% to $40.1 sold its famous soft billion— highest among the 119 Indian drink for more than billionaires on the list. Ambani was Mukesh Ambani Jeff Bezos 130 years, is giving ranked 19th globally, up from 33rd customers in Japan position in 2017. “Mukesh Ambani person globally with a fortune of $90 Birla, ranked 127th overall with a something harder. chairs and runs $51 billion (revenues) oil billion. fortune of $11.8 billion, Uday Kotak (143, The company is and gas giant Reliance Industries, According to Forbes, India is home to $10.7 billion), Radhakishan Damani (151, launching a canned among India’s most valuable 119 billionaires, 18 more than last year. $10 billion), Gautam Adani (154, $9.7 version of Chu-Hi, a companies,” Forbes said. This year’s list consists of 2,043 of the billion) and Cyrus Poonawalla (170, $9.1 carbonated drink Bezos, referred to as the “Centi- richest people in the world. The billion). Acharya Balkrishna, the co- made with shochu, a billionaire”, topped the list with a net combined net worth of this elite group is founder of FMCG company Patanjali spirit distilled from worth of $112 billion, becoming the only a whopping $9.1 trillion, up 18% since Ayurved, was ranked 274th on the list barley, sweet potatoes person to appear in the Forbes list with a last year. Their average net worth is a with a net worth of $6.3 billion. or other ingredients. Chu-Hi, an abbreviation of “shochu 12-figure fortune. “Shares of his e- record $4.1 billion. Azim Premji is the “Acharya Balkrishna derives his highball,” is considered a low-alcohol beverage, but proofs commerce giant Amazon rose 59% in 12 second richest Indian and was ranked fortune from fast-growing consumer can range as high as 18 (9% alcohol by volume). months, helping boost his fortune by 58th on the overall list with a net worth goods giant Patanjali Ayurved. The move is a first for Coke globally, which has stuck to $39.2 billion. It was the biggest one year of $18.8 billion, followed by Lakshmi Balkrishna owns 98.6% of the privately- cola and other non-alcoholic drinks except for its brief gain since Forbes started tracking Mittal (62nd position, net worth of $18.5 held company, which he cofounded with ownership of a wine subsidiary that ended in 1983. The billionaires in 1987,” it said. The billion), Shiv Nadar (98th, $14.6 billion) politically well-connected yoga guru launching of Chu-Hi comes as the overall category of “ready- Amazon founder moved ahead of Bill and Dilip Shanghvi (115th, $12.8 billion). Baba Ramdev,” Forbes said. to-drink” canned mixed alcoholic drinks is growing in Japan Gates, who is now the second richest The 10 richest Indians include Kumar Source: PTI amid a decline in beer sales. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 28 ASTROLOGY FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018

Shree Ganeshaya Namah

Bejan Daruwalla is world's most famous astrologertoday. He appears regularly on world wide TV shows. Bejan who has been a professor in English, hasauthored a number of books on astrology. India'sPrime Minister Narendra Modi , on March 29, 2012,lunched one of Bejan's books, '2012- End of theWorld? Bejan contributes to a number of journals andnewspapers in many parts of the world which includeBerkley Communications (London) Times of India(Delhi, Mumbai, Bejan Daruwalla is available for astrological Kolkata, Chennai) and The IndianPanorama ( consultations. He can be reached at New York and Texas). Bejan's [email protected] predictionshave mostly been correct and and on phone 011-91-8141234275 people the world overrely on his predictions. www.bejandaruwalla.com WEEKLY HOROSCOPE MARCH 12 - MARCH 18, 2018 Aries: Leo: Sagittarius: Aries is active, energetic, excitable and impulsive, Leo is enthusiastic, powerful, expansive and Sagittarius is energetic, ambitious, generous, optimistic, and open to change and new creative, generous and extravagant. Not freedom - loving, and a seeker of challenge, experiences. Your magical birthstones are coral surprisingly, gold is your metal, flame is your open to new ideas and exploration. Topaz and and diamonds that attract love, financial success, natural symbol, sunflower is your flower, and turquoise, your magical birthstones, attract and bring luck in new ventures. Red, scarlet and your colors are orange, gold, rich shades of love and protect from hard. Your colors are carmine are your colors, and geranium is your yellow and brown. Rubies will protect you rich purple, violet and indigo, the dandelion flower. Iron and steel are your metals, and you against physical injury and ensure is your flower. Tin is your metal and sword, incense associations are honeysuckle and musk. faithfulness and will bring you serenity. A rose your magical tool! Your most beneficial The direction most beneficial to you is the east, and incense will greatly benefit you and the direction is the east, and pine is your incense you will benefit from the use of candles direction beneficial to you is the eats. of choice. Taurus: Virgo: Capricorn:

Taurus is quite affectionate, patient, stable, Virgo is reserved, modest, practical, Capricorn is sure - footed, reserved, determined and practical, stubborn, and resistant discriminating and industrious, analytical acquisitive, cautious, disciplined and to change. Turquoise and emerald will protect you and painstaking, seeking to know and determined, and seeks security. Your colors against infidelity and deceit, ensure loyalty, and understand. Emerald and sapphire bring you are dark grey, dark green, black, dark brown improve memory, pale blue, yellow, pink and pale tranquility of mind and protect against and indigo, and magical birthstone is the green are your colors, and your flower is violet. illness. Shades of green, dark brown, slate and garnet that attracts popularity, high esteem Copper is your metal, and seeds and stones are spotted patterns work best for you, as the and true love. Lead is your metal and your your natural symbols. The direction most metal mercury. Pansies are your flower, and magical tool is spade. Your flower is ivy, beneficial to you is the south, and your incense your incense is myrrh. The south is most though your incense association is lotus. association is frankincense. beneficial for you, and grains and seeds are Your most beneficial direction is south. Gemini: your natural symbols. Aquarius: Libra: Gemini is lively, energetic, versatile and Aquarius is assertive, independent, intellectual, lives primarily in the mind rather Libra is active, artistic, easygoing, peaceable, progressive, analytical, original and than the emotions, and is extremely adaptable to diplomatic, polished and very socially inventive and has strong dislikes and firm new situations. Your magical birthstones are inclined, and prizes beauty and harmony. opinions. Your magical birthstone, amethyst, emerald and agate, which will protect you from Opal, your magical birthstone, brings brings faithfulness in love and bestows on deception and falsehood; and bestow eloquence financial success, frees you from jealousy and you the gift of prescience. Aquamarine, (especially in declarations of love). Yellow, slate greed and imparts clear sight. Surround turquoise and electric blue are your colors, grey and spotted mixtures are your colors, and yourself with roses, gladioli and other uranium is your metal. Your flower is the your flower is lavender. Your natural symbol is fragment flowers. Your colors are blue and orchid, while license association is vanilla. feathers and mercury is your metal. The direction white, metal is cooper and most beneficial Your most favorable direction is the west, and most beneficial to you is the west and your incense direction is west. Firangipani is your incense chimes are your magical tool. is jasmine. association. Pisces: Cancer: Scorpio: Pisces is receptive, intuitive and emotional, Cancer is receptive, sensitive and imaginative, Scorpio is imaginative, passionate and imaginative, romantic impressionable and sympathetic, kind, emotional and active, and emotional, subtle and persistent, intense, mystical, adaptable, and very changeable. shrewd with an intuitive mind. Pearl will change obstinate and unyielding. Coral and topaz, Cats eye and aquamarine, your magical bad fortune into good and discord to harmony for your magical birthstones, release your occult birthstones, magnify occult powers and you, and brings support from influential people. powers and bring serenity, and also protect bringserenity of mind. Mauve, purple, violet, Your colors are shooting white, opal, iridescent from enemies and illness, and your metal is sea green and silver are your colors, while silvery hues, smoky grey, sea green and blue, and plutonium. Dark red, maroon, crimson and platinum is your metal. Your magical tool is a your metal is silver. Not surprisingly shells are colors of smoky cloud formations are your mirror and beneficial direction is north. your natural symbol. Your flower is lily, incense colors, and the rhododendron is your flower. White poppies are your flower, while your association is patchouli, and the direction most Sandalwood is your association and the incense association is copal. beneficial to you is the north. direction most beneficial to you is the north. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 SPIRITUALITY 29 SACRED SYMBOLS OF HINDUISM in stone or cast in bronze, His ananda The Mankolam Design myriad sculptures of the divine pantheon, tandava, the fierce ballet of bliss, dances the their tiers symbolize the several planes of cosmos into and out of existence within the Mankolam, the pleasing paisley design, is existence. fiery arch of flames denoting consciousness. modeled after a mango and associated with Aum. Lord Ganesha. Mangos are the sweetest of The ‘Kalasha’ or Scared Pot fruits, symbolizing auspiciousness and the Kalasha, a husked coconut circled by five Mayil or Mayur (Peacock) happy fulfillment of legitimate worldly mango leaves on a pot, is used in puja to Mayil, "peacock," is Lord Murugan's mount, desires. represent any God, especially Lord Ganesha. swift and beautiful like Karttikeya Himself. Breaking a coconut before His shrine is the The proud display of the dancing peacock ‘Shatkona’ or Six-pointed Star ego's shattering to reveal the sweet fruit symbolizes religion in full, unfolded glory.His Shatkona, "six-pointed star," is two inside. shrill cry warns of approaching harm. interlocking triangles; the upper stands for Siva, 'purusha' (male energy) and fire, the ‘Kuttuvilaku’ Standing Oil Lamp Nandi, Shiva’s Vehicle lower for Shakti, 'prakriti' (female power) and 'Kuttuvilaku,' the standing oil lamp, Om or Aum water. Their union gives birth to symbolizes the dispelling of ignorance and Om, or Aum, is the root mantra and primal Sanatkumara, whose sacred number is six. awakening of the divine light within us. Its sound from which all creation issues forth. It soft glow illumines the temple or shrine room, is associated with Lord Ganesha. Its three Musika or Mouse keeping the atmosphere pure and serene. syllables stand at the beginning and end of Mushika is Lord Ganesha's mount, the every sacred verse, every human act. mouse, traditionally associated with The Rudraksha Seed abundance in family life. Under cover of Ganesha darkness, seldom visible yet always at work, Mushika is like God's unseen grace in our lives. ‘Konrai’ Blossoms Konrai, Golden Shower, blossoms are the flowering symbol of Siva's honeyed grace in our life. Associated with His shrines and Nandi is Lord Siva's mount, or vahana. This temples throughout India, the Cassia fistula is huge white bull with a black tail, whose name lauded in numberless Tirumurai hymns. means "joyful," disciplined animality kneeling at Siva's feet, is the ideal devotee, the The ‘Homakunda’ or Fire Altar pure joy and strength of Saiva Dharma. Aum. Homakunda, the fire altar, is the symbol of ancient Vedic rites. It is through the fire Bilva or Bael Tree element, denoting divine consciousness, that Ganesha is the Lord of Obstacles and Ruler Bilva is the bael tree. Its fruit, flowers and we make offerings to the Gods. Hindu Rudraksha seeds, Eleocarpus ganitrus, are of Dharma. Seated upon His throne, He guides leaves are all sacred to Siva, liberation's sacraments are solemnized before the homa prized as the compassionate tears Lord Siva our karmas through creating and removing summit. Planting Aegle marmelos trees fire. shed for mankind's suffering. Saivites wear obstacles from our path. We seek His around home or temple is sanctifying, as is 'malas' (necklaces) of them always as a symbol permission and blessings in every worshiping a Linga with bilva leaves and of God's love, chanting on each bead, "Aum undertaking. water. Namah Sivaya." Vata or Banyan Tree Padma or Lotus ‘Kamandalu’ or Water Vessel Vata, the banyan tree, Ficus indicus, Padma is the lotus flower, Nelumbo 'Kamandalu,' the water vessel, is carried by symbolizes Hinduism, which branches out in nucifera, perfection of beauty,associated with the Hindu monastic. It symbolizes his simple, all directions, draws from many roots, spreads Deities and the chakras, especially the 1,000- self-contained life, his freedom from worldly shade far and wide, yet stems from one great petaled 'sahasrara.' Rooted in the mud, its needs, his constant 'sadhana' and 'tapas' trunk. Siva as Silent Sage sits beneath it. blossom is a promise of purity and (devotion and austerity) and his oath to seek unfoldment. God everywhere. Tripundra and Bindi Swastika ‘Tiruvadi’ or Sacred Sandals Swastika is the symbol of auspiciousness Tiruvadi, the sacred sandals worn by and good fortune-literally, "It is well." The The ‘Ghanta’ or Bell saints, sages and satgurus, symbolize the right-angled arms of this ancient sun-sign preceptor's holy feet, which are the source of denote the indirect way that Divinity is Ghanta is the bell used in ritual puja, which his grace. Prostrating before him, we humbly apprehended: by intuition and not by intellect. engages all senses, including hearing. Its touch his feet for release from worldliness. ringing summons the Gods, stimulates the Aum. Mahakala or ‘Great Time’ inner ear and reminds us that, like sound, the Mahakala, "Great Time," presides above world may be perceived but not possessed. The ‘Trikona’ or Triangle creation's golden arch. Devouring instants 'Trikona,' the triangle, is a symbol of God and eons, with a ferocious face, He is Time The ‘Gopura’ or ‘Gopuram’ Siva which, like the Sivalinga, denotes His beyond time, reminder of this world's 'Gopuras' are the towering stone gateways Absolute Being. It represents the element fire transitoriness, that sin and suffering will through which pilgrims enter the South and portrays the process of spiritual ascent pass. Indian temple. Richly ornamented with and liberation spoken of in scripture. Tripundra is a Saivite's great mark, three stripes of white vibhuti on the brow. This holy Ankusa or Ganesha’s Goad PAGE SPONSORED BY ash signifies purity and the burning away of Ankusha, the goad held in Lord Ganesha's anava, karma and maya. The bindu, or dot, at right hand, is used to remove obstacles from ARISH K. SAHANI the third eye quickens spiritual insight. dharma's path. It is the force by which all wrongful things are repelled from us, the Serving Since 1972 Nataraja or Dancing Shiva sharp prod which spurs the dullards onward. Please Call or Write for Your Insurance Needs The Anjali Gesture Arish K Sahani (Father) Anjali, the gesture of two hands brought together near the heart, means to "honor or Shiv Sahani (Son) celebrate." It is our Hindu greeting, two joined as one, the bringing together of matter and Priya Sahani Sood (Daughter) spirit, the self meeting the Self in all. 7 1 8 - 2 7 1 - 1 9 0 6 ‘Go’ or Cow [email protected] 'Go,' the cow, is a symbol of the earth, the nourisher, the ever-giving, undemanding ‘If Hindus don’t maintain Hinduism, who shall save it? If India’s own provider. To the Hindu, all animals are sacred, children don’t cling to their faith, who shall guard it? Indian alone can and we acknowledge this reverence of life in Nataraja is Siva as "King of Dance." Carved our special affection for the gentle cow. save India, and India and Hinduism are one.’ THE INDIAN PANORAMA 30 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 CLASSIFIEDS 31 ACCOUNTING ACCOUNTING NEW JERSEY INCOME TAX: INDIVIDUAL/BUSINESS/NON-PROFIT New Company setup -Accounting-Payroll Foreign Assets Reporting (FBAR) & Tax matters NAILESH T BHAVSAR CPA (Chartered Accountant-INDIA) 100 Plainfield Ave, Suite 6 A EDISON, NJ 08817 TEL: (732) 317 3696

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CONTD FROM PAGE 1 un by May to achieve permanent nuclear and missile programs. We've got to Republicans are vowing to continue denuclearization. The Republic of Korea, break this cycle. The United States and challenging him in ways that could result in Trump agrees to meet... along with the United States, Japan, and our South Korea must stand shoulder-to- either new legislation or support for after he briefed Trump and his national many partners around the world, remain shoulder in applying the sustained pressure expected legal challenges to the move. security team. fully and resolutely committed to the needed to peacefully end this threat. And "I disagree with this action and fear its Reading from a prepared statement, complete denuclearization of the Korean Beijing must do its part," Royce said. unintended consequences," House Speaker Chung said the North Korean leader has Peninsula," Chung said. (Source: PTI) Paul Ryan said. "There are unquestionably expressed his "eagerness to meet with "Along with Trump, we are optimistic bad trade practices by nations like China, but President Trump as soon as possible." about continuing a diplomatic process to Bill & Melinda Gates... the better approach is targeted enforcement Chung attributed the North Korean test the possibility of a peaceful resolution," against those practices." turnaround to Trump's leadership and his he said. gender equality,spreading digital financial Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell maximum pressure policy together with "The Republic of Korea, the United States, inclusion, increasing job opportunities, and said the exemptions for Canada and Mexico international solidarity. and our partners stand together in insisting supporting the agricultural sector and are not enough. In his meeting with the North Korean that we not repeat the mistakes of the past, women's support groups. "Members of the Senate, myself included, leader, Chung said Trump is committed to and that the pressure will continue until "One of the most profound ways a woman are concerned about the scope of the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. North Korea matches its words with can make life better for herself and her proposed tariffs on steel and aluminum and "Kim pledged that North Korea will concrete actions," the South Korean family is to take control of her economic their impact on American citizens and refrain from any further nuclear or missile national security adviser said. future," said Melinda Gates, co-chair of the businesses, including many I represent in tests. He understands that the routine joint Reacting to the announcement White Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Kentucky," McConnell said. military exercises between the Republic of House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said, "When women have money in their hands And, outside, EU talked tough. "If Donald Korea and the United States must continue. "President Trump greatly appreciates the and the authority to choose how to spend it, Trump puts in place the measures this He expressed his eagerness to meet nice words of the South Korean delegation they grow in confidence and power. They evening, we have a whole arsenal at our President Trump as soon as possible," he and President Moon. He will accept the change the unwritten rules that say women disposal with which to respond," European said. invitation to meet with Kim Jong Un at a are lesser than men," she said in a statement. Financial Affairs Commissioner Pierre "President Trump appreciated the place and time to be determined." She The investments will build on the Moscovici said. briefing and said he would meet Kim Jong- added that the sanctions on the reclusive foundation's previous financial Counter-measures would include nation must remain. commitments to advance progress on gender European tariffs on US oranges, tobacco and "We look forward to the denuclearization equality, including USD 80 million for gender bourbon, he said, adding that some products NOTICE of North Korea. In the meantime, all data, advocacy and accountability, of which under consideration for an EU riposte were sanctions and maximum pressure must USD 20 million was dedicated to supporting largely produced in constituencies controlled NAME CHANGE remain," Sanders said. women's movements, a statement said. by Trump's Republicans. "We want Congress According to a senior administration According to the foundation, the data show to understand that this would be a lose-lose TO WHOMSOEVER official, Trump may meet the North Korean that when a woman has the option of situation," Moscovici told BFM TV. IT MAY CONCERN leader in couple of months. working outside the home and access to The EU is by far the biggest trading Congressman Ed Royce, Chairman of the financial services to participate in the formal partner of the United States by value and, I, Shriya Goel daughter of Pankaj Goel, holder of Indian Passport No. House Foreign Affairs Committee said Kim's economy, families break the cycle of poverty after China, member states have together the H8058853, issued at Chandigarh on desire to talk shows sanctions the and national GDPs rise. biggest trade surplus with the country. Once 24/11/2009, permanent resident of administration has implemented are When women have access to financial approved by Trump, the tariffs would go into 1413-A Sector. 19-B, Officers Transit starting to work. resources such as cash or mobile money, the effect after two months. Flats, Chandigarh, India and "We can pursue more diplomacy, as we ability to control those resources and the In Beijing, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said presently residing at 8713 keep applying pressure ounce by ounce. ability to make decisions that affect her, and history showed that trade wars were not the Southwestern Blvd., Apt 1421, Dallas Remember, North Korean regimes have her family's future, women are empowered in correct way to resolve problems. "Especially TX, 75206 do hereby change my repeatedly used talks and empty promises to ways beyond economics, it said. given today's globalization, choosing a trade name from Shriya to Shriya Goel with extract concessions and buy time," he said. The investments will not only help better war is a mistaken prescription. The outcome immediate effect. "North Korea uses this to advance its understand what works to ensure women are will only be harmful," he said on the able to fully participate in economies, but sidelines of an annual meeting of China's also dismantle the barriers that have held Parliament. women back for far too long, said Sarah Hendriks, director, gender equality at the Bill US Navy veteran... & Melinda Gates Foundation. "Our strategy is aimed at giving more Purinton, yelled, "Get out of my country", women and girls the economic opportunities before shooting Kuchibhotla, who later died they need to engage as equals in society," from injuries sustained in the attack. Hendriks said. Kuchibhotla and Madasani worked as International Women's Day is celebrated engineers at Garmin, a tech company that on March 8 every year. It commemorates the makes GPS devices. movement for women's rights. (Source: PTI) Kuchibhotla's widow Sunayana Dumala welcomed the guilty plea. "Today's guilty Trump announces new... verdict will not bring back my Srinu, but it will send a strong message that hate is never measures that could block the president acceptable," she said. from fully implementing his proposal. Purinton sentencing is scheduled for May "I don't think Republicans will put up with 4. this, and I personally believe that we may be Prosecutors alleged Purinton committed able to stop it in the Congress," Sen. Orrin offences after substantial planning and Hatch, R-Utah, said. premeditation, attempted to kill more than Sen. Hatch: Trump has 'been misled' over one person in a single criminal episode. tariffs (Source:PTI) Play Sen. Hatch: Trump has 'been misled' over Former Nassau County... tariffs 1:07 The president announced a 10 percent tax Testimony is scheduled to begin on imported aluminum and a 25 percent tax Wednesday, most likely with the key witness on imported steel, carving out exceptions for in the case, restaurateur Harendra Singh, imports from Canada and Mexico. But those who has pleaded guilty to bribing Mangano exemptions weren't enough to placate and Venditto. congressional Republicans who have Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Treinis Gatz traditionally opposed protectionist action on said she expected Singh to be on the stand for trade. two days on direct examination, before the GOP leaders had lobbied the White House defense cross-examines him the following from moving forward, writing letters, week. speaking out in the media and through Mangano has been charged with outreach to the president and his advisers. conspiracy,bribery,wire fraud and extortion. During a conference call between White His wife, Linda, has been charged with House officials and GOP Hill staffers making false statements, conspiracy and Thursday, administration representatives obstruction of justice. Venditto is charged requested favorable comments from with conspiracy, bribery, securities fraud, members on the president's plan, a wire fraud, making false statements and suggestion that the staff in one office obstruction of justice. laughed at, according to a Republican aide. All three have pleaded not guilty and will In a rare rebuke of the president, stand trial together. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 TRAVEL 33

ikkim is the second smallest state in India, and is wedged between Tibet, SNepal, Bhutan, and West Bengal, but encompasses an astounding range of pristine natural beauty of the Himalayas. A traveller’s guide to Sikkim explores the stunning beauty SIKKIM: A WINDOW of this Himalayas hill town. The Sikkimese call their land ‘Ney Mayal Lyang’ that translates to ‘heaven.’ Sikkim is located in the north eastern part of India, but is not a part of the Seven Sister ONTO THE HIMALAYA states. The state is famous for dazzling waterfalls, virgin forests, Tibetan style Buddhist Gompas, alpine meadows, rhododendron flowers and more. Kanchenjunga (also Kanchendzonga) at 8598 m is the third highest peak in the world, and lies in Sikkim. More than 60 percent of the former Himalayan Kingdom of Sikkim is mountainous, and there are sizeable numbers of 6000 m peaks on the eastern and western borders of the state. Sikkim has an impressive literacy rate of more than 70 percent. It was merged with India in 1975, and is a prosperous state today. Weather in most parts of Sikkim is pleasant throughout the year (except in higher altitudes), and that makes it a favourite of holidaymakers from the Indian plains in the summer months. Bengalis throng the tourist towns of Sikkim during their holiday season of Durga Puja in October-November. The state abounds in a variety of flora and fauna, and lucky ones may also sight the endangered red panda. PELLING Pelling lies in West Sikkim, perched at an altitude of 2100 m and is approximately 120 km away from Gangtok. At first glance Pelling looks like a cluster of concrete hotels, but of the Rangeet and Rathong rivers. there are unparalleled views of the snowy Tashiding Gompa is the most sacred peaks. Sunrise over the Kanchenjunga is monastery in Sikkim, the mere sight of Pelling’s biggest charm. With plenty of budget Thongwa Rangdol Chorten – a chorten inside accommodation options, it also makes for a the complex, is said to cleanse every one of great base to explore other parts of West their sins. The monastery is said to have been Sikkim. built in 1641 and is set in an idyllic location Chief sights in and around Pelling are surrounded by many ancient looking white Pemangyatse Monastery, built more than 300 chortens. Tall prayer flags in white (called years ago, which is beautifully located amid Darchor) line up the staircase path to green gardens; a huge Buddha statue and Tashiding Monastery, while the views from statues of reincarnations of the Gompa are superb. Intricately carved Padmasambhava; and Pemangyatse mani stones with the Buddhist mantra, Om Monastery, famous for the Chaam dances Mani Padme Hum are piled up on one another (masked dances) held in February/March. to form a mani wall near the monastery complex. YUKSOM The historic little town of Yuksom was the RUMTEK MONASTERY first capital of Sikkim when three Lamas Undoubtedly, this is Sikkim’s most famous converged from different directions and monastery, and every visitor to Sikkim is crowned the first Chogyal (King) in 1641. likely to visit the Rumtek Monastery,even in a There is still a stone throne that marks the 3-4 day trip to Sikkim. Rumtek Village is 24 km coronation spot, and is known as Norbugang away from Gangtok (Sikkim’s capital), and the Chorten, the site is called Norbugang Park. monastery is the headquarters of the Black Yuksom has the charming feel of a hamlet; it Hat Sect (one of the oldest sects of Tibetan is lower in altitude than Pelling and is Buddhism). situated in a valley. There are two buildings of Rumtek If you are coming to Yuksom (Also Yuksam) Monastery, one is relatively newer (built in from Pelling, then a short detour will bring 1966), and the older Rumtek Monastery was you to Rimbi Waterfalls which is quite a sight founded in 1740 by the fourth Chogyal of in the monsoon. Just 9 km before Yuksom, you Sikkim. A path leads to a shrine called Golden will cross the Kanchenjunga Waterfall, which Stupa, it is a chorten made of silver and gold, is a majestic waterfall falling from a great and studded with precious stones such as height. turquoise, amber and coral. It is There is a small pond known by the name of recommended to attend the morning prayers Kathok Lake in Yuksom, a short walk will at Rumtek Monastery. bring you to a ridge where once stood a palace of the King of Sikkim. There are also two new TSOMGO LAKE colourful Gompas above Yuksom, but the most Pronounced Changu, this scenic lake is beautiful monastery is the 1701 built Dubdi perched at 3750 m above sea level and lies 40 Monastery. The path to Dubdi Monastery is km away from Gangtok on the way to Nathu lined with prayer flags and is located amid La. The drive to Tsomgo Lake is spectacular, lush greenery. and the lake itself is a pristine water body surrounded by wildflowers for most of the TASHIDING year. A particularly mentionable tourist If coming from Yuksom, you will come attraction is that visitors can go for yak rides from the Tourism Office in Gangtok. The Lake serving maggi and other fast food, and across one of Sikkim’s prettiest falls. The near the periphery of the lake. Tsomgo Lake permit can be arranged by a travel agent for a also shops that sell woollens. Phamrong waterfalls are around halfway on freezes in the cold winters, but can still be small fee, and there are lots of taxis and The best views of the lake are after the Yuksom-Tashiding route. Tashiding is a accessed if the road is open. shared taxis available for a visit to Tsomgo climbing up a nearby hilltop from where the small town located high above the confluence A visit to the lake requires a special permit Lake. There are a few dhabas near Tsomgo entire lake is visible. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 34 SPORTS FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 India thrash Bangladesh in Nidahas Trophy 2018 COLOMBO (TIP): Shikhar Dhawan chances. continued his blazing form in Twenty20 Opting to bowl, India failed to latch on to a Internationals as his second consecutive fifty chance off Soumya Sarkar in the first over in the Nidahas Trophy 2018 tri-series helped with three fielders converging on the top- India bounce back with a convincing six- edge bit none going for the catch at fine leg. wicket win over Bangladesh at the R The first fielding lapse set the tone for Premadasa stadium on Thursday. India for the rest of the innings. Shardul Dhawan’s brilliant fifty was the bright spot Thakur trapped Tamim Iqbal LBW but the on a day when India’s sloppy fielding and decision was overturned as the ball was slightly wayward bowling was not capitalized pitching outside the line of leg stump. by a Bangladesh team that looked lackluster. Buoyed by the successful review, the left- Chasing 140, Rohit Sharma and Dhawan hander hit two boundaries before the started off with some boundaries. batsman top-edged a pull to short fine leg. However, the Indian skipper looked to guide In the seventh over of the innings, Vijay a good length ball to third man but ended up Shankar’s quest for a Twenty20 dragging the delivery back on to the stumps. International wicket was denied twice, with Rohit’s dismissal for 17 continued his poor Liton Das benefiting both times. The first run, having managed scores of 15,21,0,11,0 in catch was spilled by Suresh Raina as he ran his previous games. from widish mid-off but failed to latch on. Rishabh Pant(7) failed to capitalize as he fell Two balls later, Liton top-edged a short-arm to Rubel Hossain and the bowler was unlucky pull but Washington Sundar put the catch to have not got his second wicket as Mehidy down at fine leg. Hasan spilled a chance at leg gully off Suresh Shankar finally turned his luck around by Raina on 1. Both left-handers strung a solid Shikhar Dhawan (L) celebrates after scoring his fifty during the Nidahas Trophy 2018 encounter getting Mushfiqur Rahim (18) and skipper partnership of 68 runs, with Dhawan getting between India and Bangladesh in Colombo on March 8. Mahmudullah (1). In the death overs, to his sixth fifty with a sweep off left-arm Mahmudullah’s side needed Liton (34) and orthodox spinner Nazmul Islam. the win, Rohit’s side will feel lucky that their managed to restrict Bangladesh to 139/8. The Sabbir (30) to fire but both fell in quick Raina (28) and Dhawan (55) fell relatively fielding mishaps were not punished severely. fact India tied Bangladesh down to a slightly succession. Bangladesh’s inability to make quickly but Dinesh Karthik and Manish India dropped four catches, missed a run- below-par score spoke of the ineptitude of India pay for fielding lapses hurt them in a Pandey guided India over the line. Despite out, bowlers conceded 15 extras, yet the batsmen, who did not capitalize on their big way. Source: HT MOHAMMAD SHAMI: CONTRACT Virat Kohli & boys get massive pay hike, ON HOLD AFTER ADULTERY AND Dhoni & Ashwin miss A-plus grade DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CLAIMS

NEW DELHI (TIP): : The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on March 7 announced a new contract system and compensation structure for Indian cricket that will see the cricketers earn a lot more than what they used to in previous years. "The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) for BCCI on Wednesday announced the Annual Player Contracts for the period from October 2017 to September 2018. The CoA was of the view that the performance and position of Indian Cricket needs to be recognised with the fee structure comparable to the Mohammed Shami took to Facebook to deny reports where his best in the world," the BCCI wrote in a wife accused him of martial affair and torture. statement. The BCCI have introduced a new NEW DELHI (TIP): Fast bowler Mohammad Shami's grade system altogether - Grade A+ : Rs contract with India's Cricket Board has been put on hold while 7 Cr, Grade A: Rs 5 Cr, Grade B: Rs 3 Cr, an investigation is carried out into "unsavoury" claims. Grade C: Rs 1 Cr. Earlier, there was no Shami's wife has accused the cricketer of adultery and Grade A+ in the list while Grade A domestic violence, claims the player has denied. players used to get Rs 2 Cr and Grade B He has been dropped from a list of contracted players and C cricketers received Rs 1 Cr and Rs unveiled by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. 50 Lakh respectively. "It's definitely a part of a big conspiracy against me," said Five players will recieve Rs 7 Cr Shami, 27, who has won 30 Test caps. annualy from BCCI as they have been A BCCI supervisory committee said the allegations, made placed in the top grade - Virat Kohli, by Shami's wife, Hasin Jahan, had put them in a difficult Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, position. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit She has made public a series of messages that Shami Bumrah. Meanwhile, former India allegedly sent to women during their four-year marriage and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni remains accused the cricketer, whom she married in 2014, of domestic in Grade A and will receive Rs 5 Cr per violence. annum. Dhoni hasn't been playing Test "We are in a bit of Catch 22," Vinod Rai, chairman of the cricket for a long time now and that is committee, told cricket website ESPNcricinfo. being seen by many as the reason why he "Ordinarily you would distinguish and say that is a personal wasn't promoted to Grade A+. issue and the contract is a professional issue. Dhoni is one of the seven players to be "But someone could easily point out and say this allegation named in Grade A and the others are - is an unsavoury one and you are still rewarding him." Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya, As for the Women's team, the Indian Shami, who has represented his country 87 times in all Murali Vijay, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Dinesh Karthik. cricket board have announced a new formats of the game, added: "What is being said about my Ajinkya Rahane and Wridhhiman Saha. Kedar Jadhav, Manish Pandey, Axar grade C, which will see players earning personal life is completely false. Grade B players will be richer by Rs 3 Cr Patel, Karun Nair, Suresh Raina, Parthiv Rs 10 Lakh per annum, in addition to "This is just an attempt to defame me." per annum and the seven cricketers are: Patel and Jayant Yadav will receive Rs 1 Grade A: Rs 50 Lakh and Grade B: Rs 30 In December 2016, Shami criticised social media users who KL Rahul, Umesh Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, Cr each for being named in Group C. Lakh. trolled his wife because of her choice of clothes. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 35 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 36 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2018