NEW YORK • WASHINGTON D.C. • CHICAGO • ATLANTA • CALIFORNIA VOL 26, No. 1377 February 26, 2021 50¢ Periodical Postage GLOBAL INDIANS 32 million worldwide, over 200 Indian-origin people occupy leadership positions in 15 countries Neera Tanden nomination in Antonio Guterres jeopardy UN chief Details on page 6 'extremely grateful' to India Communities unite to combat Details on page 6 Anti-Asian Violence Congress Details on page 17 government in Puducherry falls Rishi requests intervention of Details on page 10 Governor Newsom CONTENTS Details on page 20 picture courtesy NASA An illustration of NASA's Perseverance rover landing safely on Mars. (inset) Indian-American scientist Swati Bollywood ------30 Mohan, who led the guidance, navigation, and control operations of the Mars 2020 mission Classifieds ------31 CAPT KRISHAN SHARMA AND AGENCIES Community Post ------17-24 Cover/Top Stories ------5-8 The PIOs, include leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, the guidance, navigation, and control operations of Edit Page ------33 Horoscope ------9 This week’s question Netaji Subash Chandra Bose, mathematician S the Mars 2020 mission. Mohan's family emigrated Chandrasekhar and Bio-chemist Hargobind Khorana, from India to the US when she was only a year old. Immigration Post ------12-13 Do you think Biden will have a Life Style ------14-15 better deal with Iran? who continue to make India proud and with contri- Raised in Northern Virginia and Washington DC OP-ED------32 butions to India's freedom struggle and excellence in metro area, she completed her bachelor's degree Last week’s result Info/Highlights ------4 scientific fields. from Cornell University in Mechanical & Aerospace Will Indo-US relations improve Real Estate ------25-27 under Biden? As the world witnessed the historic landing of Engineering, and her M.S. and PhD from Massachu- TechBiz Post ------10-11

YES 56% NO 44% NASA's Perseverance Rover on the Martian surface, it setts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Aeronautics/As- Travel & Hospitality Post ------16 was Indian-American scientist Swati Mohan, who led tronautics. Details on page 5 Wellness Post ------28-29 2 India Post February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021 India Post 3 www.indiapost.com

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SAN FRANCISCO & Ranbir, Shraddha's untitled release Vivek Oberoi's scholarship for kids SILICON VALLEY Vidya Sethuraman Bureau Chief Bollywood actors RanbirKapoor and Actor Vivek Anand Oberoi has launched Vijay Thapar CPRO & Advertising ShraddhaKapoor will share screen space a campaign that aims to allocate educa- Kiran Pandey Director, WellnessPost for the first time in director Luv tional scholarships worth Rs 16 crore to Vinita Thapar Marketing Deepak Chhabra Promotions Ranjan'syet-untitled to be released soon. deserving students in rural India. Ritu Maheshwari Director Promotions 30 14 Sudesh Kumari Correspondent

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

CHICAGO GLOBAL INDIANS Bitcoin's market value tops $1 T Ramesh Soparawala Resident Editor PIOs like Gandhi, Subash Chandra Price of a Bitcoin hit an all-time high on A Q Siddiqui Correspondent Bose, S Chandrasekhar and Hargobind 19 February. Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency ST. LOUIS Khorana, continue to make India created in 2009 by an unknown person Ashwin Patel Correspondent proud. 5 using the alias Satoshi Nakamoto. 10 NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY Pinky Kaur Bureau Chief Srirekha N. Chakravarty Correspondent Sukhvinder Saini Circulation Community: Travel:

BOSTON Anti-Asian Violence Malaga Gope Gidwani Bureau Chief A rash of brutal crimes targeting Asian- A historical and cultural provincial capi- CANADA Americans, especially elders, highlights an tal, being the center and transport hub Paras Nehra Correspondent epidemic of anti-Asian violence and the for the Costa del Sol region, Malaga is of- NEW DELHI need for communities to work together. 17 ten flooded with tourists during summer. 16 Lakshay Sharma Web Developer

MUMBAI Nidhi Soparawala Correspondent Immigration: Wellness: Frank Fernandes Correspondent Immigration bill in Congress UN chief 'grateful' to India VADODARA, GUJARAT Vaidehi Patel Correspondent Ambitious immigration bill in Congress UN Secy-Gen Guterres is "extremely Priyanka Shah Correspondent that proposes to eliminate the per- grateful" for the gift of 200,000 PUNJAB country cap for employment-based COVID-19 vaccines by India for peace- Raman Nehra Bureau Chief green cards. 12 keepers. 28 Jaswant Singh Gandam Correspondent INFO-CENTER Business Partner India: CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS PHOENIX DUO MATRIX 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538 COMMUNICATIONS Tel: 510-396-9140 • Fax: 510-790-2806 • e-mail: [email protected] PRIVATE LIMITED S-1/A, 3rd Floor, Arjun Nagar, E-SUBSCRIPTION& EDITORIAL: Vidya Sethuraman: Tel: 510-491-4867 • e-mail: [email protected] Safdarjung Enclave Extension, ADVERTISEMENT: Naresh Sodhi: Tel: 510-938-8667 • e-mail: [email protected] I Graphics Inquiry: E-mail: [email protected] New Delhi -110029, INDIA T: +91 11 46068685, +91 11 41006051 INDIA CORPORATE OFFICE • E: [email protected] • W: www.phoenixduomatrix.com 230-A, 3rd Floor, Jin Kushal Suri Complex (Opp NDSE Part-II) New Delhi - 110049 • Tel: 11-26257769 • E-mail:[email protected] For advertisement rates call the office nearest to you: India Sales Offices: India Post Copyright©1994 RJ Media Inc, ISSN 1084-3868, is published weekly for SAN FRANCISCO & SILICON VALLEY NEW DELHI PUNJAB $30 for 52 issues yearly by India Post, 1860 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538 Chandrika Malikarya Amardeep Singh Mowry Ave Ste 200, Fremont, CA 94538- Naresh Sodhi: 510-938-8667 • e-mail: [email protected] Sr. Manager - Sales & Business Development Manager - Business Development 1730. Application to mail at Periodicals M: +91 8373929895 M: +91 8527456807 postage prices is pending at Fremont, Vidya Sethuraman: 510-491-4867 • e-mail: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] California and additional mailing offices. LOS ANGELES CHICAGO BANGALORE POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 16224 Alpine Pl. La Mirada, CA 90638 2543 W Devon Ave Chicago IL 60659 Gowtham Sivanandam Advertorials & Event Team India: India Post, 1860 Mowry Ave Ste 200, Tel: 562-441-5511, Tel: 773-973-7394; Fax: 773-973-7396; Sr. Manager Business Development Fremont, CA 94538-1730. [email protected] Email: [email protected] M: +91 9880535664 Deepti Dogra E: [email protected] Assistant Manager DISCLAIMER NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY India Post Editorial and Content Support assumes all advertisers to be Tel: 510-938-8667 • e-mail: [email protected] MUMBAI/AHMEDABAD [email protected] reliable and responsible for all liability M: +91 9560750802 for their claimers For editorial, contact: [email protected] February 26, 2021 Cover/Top Stories India Post 5 www.indiapost.com GLOBAL INDIANS 32 million worldwide, over 200 Indian-origin people occupy leadership positions in 15 countries CAPT KRISHAN SHARMA AND AGENCIES

he PIOs, include leaders like Ashwin Vasavada, from NASA's Jet generations. Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subash Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Cali- The 2021 Indiaspora Government TChandra Bose, mathematician S fornia, has led the scientists' Roving Leaders List, released recently, was Chandrasekhar and Bio-chemist Mars with the MSL mission and also drawn from government websites and Hargobind Khorana, who continue to worked on NASA's Lunar Reconnais- other publicly available resources to make India proud and with contribu- sance Orbiter mission, among other ca- prepare the report to showcase the tions to India's freedom struggle and reer accomplishments. achievements of the community lead- excellence in scientific fields. Kamlesh Lulla is an internationally ac- ers across different sectors. As the world witnessed the historic claimed scientist at the American space "It is a huge source of pride to have landing of NASA's Perseverance Rover agency. He also holds two PhD degrees the first woman and first person of color, on the Martian surface, it was Indian- with specialization in Environmental sci- American scientist Swati Mohan, who ence and Geoscience remote sensing. led the guidance, navigation, and control Sunita L. Williams selected as an as- Sunita L. Williams operations of the Mars 2020 mission. tronaut by NASA in 1998 to become the Mohan's family emigrated from India to second Indian-American woman to tends beyond our community to all of the US when she was only a year old. hold the position at NASA after late the constituents and communities that Raised in Northern Virginia and Kalpana Chawla, is a veteran of two ma- they serve," Rangaswami said in a state- Washington DC metro area, she com- jor space missions. ment. pleted her bachelor's degree from Anita Sengupta is an aerospace engi- The list also includes diplomats, leg- Cornell University in Mechanical & Aero- neer who has worked on developing islators, heads of central banks and se- space Engineering, and her M.S. and PhD numerous technologies that enabled nior civil servants from countries with from Massachusetts Institute of Technol- Mars, Asteroids, and Deep Space explo- significant histories of diaspora migra- ogy (MIT) in Aeronautics/Astronautics. ration. She was also among the chief tion, such as Australia, Canada, According to Mohan her interest in Singapore, South Africa, the United space peaked after watching the popu- Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Kamala Harris lar TV show Star Trek when she was 9. the United States. Over the course of her career with as the Vice President of the world's old- "It is an honor to be included on the NASA, Mohan has worked on the est democracy be someone of Indian 2021 Indiaspora Government Leaders Cassini mission to Saturn and GRAIL -- a heritage. We wanted to use this seminal List. As the longest-serving Indian- pair of formation flown spacecraft to moment on Presidents' Day to highlight American member of Congress, I am the Moon, and has been a mainstay a host of others in the diaspora who also proud to be a leader in the Indian- with the Mars 2020 mission since its are in public service," said Indiaspora American community, which has be- beginning in 2013. Besides Mohan, founder M R Rangaswami, Silicon Valley- come an integral part of American life more than 38% of scientists at NASA and society, said Congressman Ami Bera, Chairman of the US House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia. Anita Sengupta With more than 32 million people of Indian-origin or (PIOs) globally, accord- engineers behind the launch of Curios- ing to India's Ministry of External Affairs, ity Rover to Mars in 2011. Indians are the largest diaspora popu- Meyya Meyyappan is a Chief Scien- lation in the world. tist for Exploration Technology at The officials on the 2021 Indiaspora NASA's Center for Nanotechnology. Government Leaders List collectively Having lived in Pasadena for number represent more than 587 million con- of years, I have personally come across stituents, and their countries account more than 30 Indian American scientists for an estimated USD 28 trillion in GDP, including Dr Satish Khanna, Prem Menon demonstrating the impact these lead- and Saroya. Kamlesh Lulla ers are having globally, Indiaspora said Ashwin Vasavada According to a recent survey and a in a statement . "It truly is inspiring to first-of-its-kind list by a US-based orga- based entrepreneur and investor. note the remarkable contribution that are of Indian origin. nization working among the Indian He was referring to Kamala Harris, government leaders of Indian heritage There are also many Indian scientists diaspora, more than 200 Indian-origin the first woman Vice President of the have made to advance the societies who have played a major role in chang- people occupy leadership positions in United States. that they now represent." ing the world with their intellect and as many as 15 countries, including the "These leaders are building a legacy make India proud. US and UK, building a legacy for future for future generations, and one that ex- Cont’d on page 8 6 India Post Top Stories February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com

Payback time as 50-50 Senate puts Congress government Neera Tanden nomination in jeopardy in Puducherry falls

NEW YORK: The White House is scrambling to find It's payback time for lawmakers who were attacked after CM resigns Republicans who can put Neera Tanden, the Indian by Tanden for years on social media. In a 50-50 Senate, American nominee for White House Office of Manage- multiple kingmakers are now flexing muscle and set- PUDUCHERRY: The Congress government in ment and Budget, over the finishing line, as opposi- tling old scores. Puducherry fell February 22nd after Chief Minis- "Neera Tanden has neither the experience nor the ter V Narayanasamy resigned ahead of the confi- temperament to lead this critical agency," said Repub- dence vote sought by him in the Assembly after lican senator Susan Collins of Maine, becoming the his government was reduced to a minority due second senator ready to sink Tanden's chances. to a spate of resignations of party MLAs and a Tanden had once tweeted that Collins is "the DMK legislator over the past few days. worst." The first blow came from within the Demo- Narayanasamy met Lt Governor Tamilisai cratic Party, when West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin Soundararajan and submitted the resignation of slammed Tanden. his cabinet, even as the ruling side's strength was "I believe her overtly partisan statements will have reduced to 11 as against the 14 of the opposi- a toxic and detrimental impact on the important work- tion. ing relationship between members of Congress and The opposition, led by NR Congress chief and the next Director of the Office of Management and Leader of Opposition N Rangasamy said it has no Budget," Manchin said in a statement. plans to stake claim to form the government as In earlier weeks, Manchin has been angered by VP of now and that discussions would be held. Harris too. He hit back hard after Harris' off message Soundararajan had earlier summoned the one- interview to a TV station where she framed the Covid- day special session on February 22, mandating 19 relief plan as something she and Biden would de- that its agenda be confined only to the trust vote, liver to the American people, without even a nod to after the opposition petitioned her last week say- the delicate bipartisan balancing act involved. ing the government had been reduced to a mi- Biden is said to have called Manchin to calm him nority due to the resignations. down. It was Harris' first brush with the political real- A fresh bout of resignations took the tally in ity of an evenly divided Senate, where her tie-break- the last few days to three and the cumulative ing vote will work its magic only when at least 50 oth- since last month to six, and further reduced the strength of the ers play ball in the 100-member chamber. The opposition, led by If Tanden sinks, Manchin would have landed his first Congress-DMK blow. If Tanden squeezes through, it means the White combine in the NR Congress chief and House would have to go all out to find at least a single assembly to 11 Leader of Opposition after Congress Neera Tanden Republican backer, assuming all other 49 Senate Democrats vote for Tanden. member K N Rangasamy said it tion to her candidacy intensifies on both sides of the Biden said last week he would not pull Tanden's Lakshminarayanan has no plans to stake and DMK's K aisle in a 50-50 Senate. nomination. "I think we are going to find the votes and claim to form the As of Monday (Feb 22) morning, at least two sena- get her confirmed," Biden said. Venkatesan tors have decided they will vote against Tanden. That The Senate Budget Committee is scheduled to vote had quit. government as of now leaves Biden and Harris to hunt for at least one Repub- on Tanden's nomination this week. If confirmed, Subse- and that discussions lican to vote yes. Kamala Harris holds the tie-breaking Tanden would be the first woman of color and first quently, the vote. Indian American ever to lead the OMB. IANS party position in the assembly was: Congress (nine, including Speaker), DMK two, All-India NR Congress seven, AIADMK four, BJP three (all nominated with vot- ing rights) and one independent who has sup- Five Indian-origin persons, Indian activist feature ported the government. There are seven vacan- cies. in TIME magazine's list of 100 emerging leaders Those who had resigned included former min- isters A Namassivayam (now in BJP) and Malladi NEW YORK: Five Indian-origin personalities, includ- tor and Executive Director of nonprofit Get Us PPE Krishna Rao. ing Twitter's top lawyer Vijaya Gadde and UK's finance Shikha Gupta and founder of nonprofit Upsolve After mounting an attack on the Narendra minister Rishi Sunak, and an Indian activist feature in Rohan Pavuluri. Modi-led Centre and former Lt Governor Kiran TIME magazine's annual list of 100 emerging leaders Bhim Army chief Chandra Shekhar Aazad is also Bedi with whom he had frequent run-ins on ad- who are shaping the future". on the list. ministrative matters, Narayanasamy led his col- The 2021 TIME100 Next, released last week, is an Sunak's profile in the TIME feature says that a leagues out of the Assembly after a debate over expansion of TIME's flagship TIME100 franchise of the little over a year ago, the 40-year old was an the rights of nominated members to vote during most influential people in the world and highlights unknown junior minister in the British govern- the floor test. 100 emerging leaders who are shaping the future. ment but after he was named to lead Britain's Subsequently, Speaker V P Sivakolundhu an- Everyone on this list is poised to make history. Treasury last year, he quickly became the be- nounced that the motion for confidence vote And in fact, many already have, Dan Macsai, the nevolent face of the government's response to moved by the chief minister in the morning was editorial director of the TIME100, said. the COVID-19 pandemic, approving large hand- defeated, even as it was not taken up for either Other Indian-origin personalities on the list are outs for many citizens whose jobs were dis- voice vote or division. PTI Instacart founder and CEO Apoorva Mehta, doc- rupted by the virus. PTI February 26, 2021 Top Stories India Post 7 www.indiapost.com

India committed to enhancing capabilities China backs India in defense manufacturing: PM hosting this year's NEW DELHI: India is working hard to enhance its ca- the talent or capability and pointed out that the coun- BRICS summit pabilities and capacities in the defense-manufactur- try did not make ventilators before the coronavirus ing sector at a fast pace, Prime Minister Narendra pandemic, but now manufactures thousands of those. BEIJING: China has expressed its support for Modi said, noting that there were hundreds of ord- Modi also cited the example of the indigenously India in hosting this year's BRICS summit and said nance factories before independence with large-scale developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Tejas. He said it will work with New Delhi to strengthen the weapons export from the country in both world wars his government has relied on the capabilities of the cooperation among the five-member grouping but this system was not strengthened. country's engineers and scientists on developing Tejas of emerging economies. Addressing a webinar on the effective implemen- and today, it is flying gracefully in the skies. India has assumed the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, tation of the Union India, China, South Africa) Chairmanship for 2021 Budget's provisions in and is set to hold this year's summit. the defense sector, the On February 19, External Affairs Minister S prime minister listed a Jaishankar launched India's BRICS 2021 website series of measures taken at the BRICS Secretariat at Sushma Swaraj by his government to Bhawan in New Delhi. boost self-reliance in the Asked about India assuming the BRICS Chair- defense sector and rued manship this year, China's Foreign Ministry the fact that the country spokesman Wang Wenbin told a media briefing is amongst the biggest here that Beijing backs New Delhi in hosting the defense importers in the summit. world. "The BRICS is a cooperation mechanism with "An India that has the global influence consisting of emerging econo- capacity to reach Mars mies and developing countries. In recent years, could have made mod- it has seen greater solidarity and deeper practi- ern weapons also, but it cal cooperation and greater influence, Wang became an easy way to said. import weapons from BRICS is now a positive, stable and construc- abroad," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tive force in international affairs, he said, adding But now, the country is that China at- working hard to change the situation and also to en- A few weeks ago, an order worth Rs 48,000 crore taches impor- "We are committed to hance its capacities and capabilities at a fast pace, the was placed for Tejas, he noted. tance to this prime minister asserted. Modi said with initiatives like de-licensing, de-regu- mechanism. deepening strategic "Before independence, we used to have hundreds lation, export promotion, foreign investment liberal- "We are partnership within it of ordnance factories. In both the world wars, weap- ization, the government has taken several measures committed to ons at large scale were exported from India. But for to give the defense-manufacturing sector a boost. deepening to consolidate solidar- various reasons, this system was not strengthened as He said with the establishment of the chief of de- strategic ity and cooperation, much as it should have been after independence," he fense staff post, bringing uniformity in the pro- partnership said. curement process and induction of equipment has within it to Wang said "The condition is such that even for small arms, we become easy. consolidate have to look at other nations. India is amongst the big- The prime minister said India has made a list of 100 solidarity and gest defense importers and this is not a matter of important items related to defense, which can be manu- cooperation, Wang said. pride," Modi stressed. factured indigenously with the help of local industries. "We support India hosting this year's meeting On the defense budget, the prime minister said a He said it is called a negative list in the official and will work with it and other members to language, but it is a strengthen communication dialogue and con- positive list in the lan- "Before independence, we used to have hundreds of solidate the three-pillar cooperation, expand guage of self-reliance. BRICS plus cooperation and work for greater ordnance factories. In both the world wars, weapons at large This is the positive progress under BRICS and also help the world to list on which the scale were exported from India. But for various reasons, this defeat COVID-19, resume economic growth and country's manufactur- system was not strengthened as much as it should ing capacity is going to improve global governance, he said. Wang, however, did not specify whether Chi- have been after independence," increase, Modi as- serted. nese President Xi Jinping would attend the sum- This is the positive mit expected to be held later this year. part has been reserved for domestic procurement list that is going to reduce India's dependence on Xi has attended all the annual summits of the even in the capital budget of defense. foreign countries for defense needs and it guaran- five-member bloc in the past, including the one A total amount of Rs 4.78 lakh crore has been ear- tees the sale of indigenous products in India, he last year hosted by Russia in which Prime Minis- marked for the defense ministry in the 2021-22 bud- observed. ter Narendra Modi took part. get, with a nearly-19-per cent increase in capital out- Describing the medium, small and micro enter- China's announcement backing India to host lay, he said. prises (MSMEs) as the backbone of the entire the BRICS summit came as the armies of the two Modi urged the private sector to come forward and manufacturing sector, Modi said reforms that are countries began disengagement of troops take up both designing and manufacturing of defense taking place today are giving more freedom to the locked in over eight-month-long standoff in equipment. MSME sector and encouragement for expanding. eastern Ladakh.PTI He said it is not that the people of India do not have PTI 8 India Post Top Stories February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com India committed to goal of non-discriminatory, verifiable nuclear disarmament: Foreign secretary

NEW DELHI: India, as a responsible nuclear weapon ence on Disarmament, Shringla said India is also com- sorting to politicization only weaken the mandate of state, is committed to maintaining credible minimum mitted to the goal of universal, non-discriminatory and this body," he said. deterrence with the posture of no-first use and non- verifiable nuclear disarmament. As the world's single multilateral disarmament ne- use against non-nuclear weapon states, Foreign Sec- "We need to rise above our differences, and dem- gotiating forum, as mandated by the Special Session retary Harsh Vardhan Shringla stated. onstrate political will and genuine intent to find con- on Disarmament (SSOD)-1, the Conference on Addressing the high-level segment of the Confer- sensus to deliver on our collective mandate. Those re- Disarmament's agenda deals with critical challenges of disarmament and international security facing the international community, he noted. Shringla asserted that India advocates a compre- 'International Mother-Language Day' celebrated, hensive and balanced program of work to enable the Outstanding Punjabi writers and columnists feted conference to commence negotiations on issues of pressing global importance. JASWANT SINGH GANDAM / RAMAN NEHRA Warning that Punjabi language was never imper- "India is committed to the goal of universal, non- India Post News Service iled so much as it was now, he underlined the para- discriminatory and verifiable nuclear disarmament. Punjabi Virsa Trust, an umbrella organization of half- mount need of creating distinct Punjabi culture to Our call for complete elimination of nuclear weapons dozen NGOs, observed International Mother Lan- save the mother tongue. through a step-by-step process, as also outlined in our guage Day (IMLD), which celebrates contribution of Johal, whose book 'Shabdan Di Sansad' was given Working Paper on Nuclear Disarmament submitted to languages and UNESCO-induced theme of 'fostering Best Book Award of 2014 by Punjab Language Depart- the Conference on Disarmament in 2007 has an en- multilingualism for inclusion in education and society, ment, underscores the importance of promoting during relevance," he said. recognizing that languages and multilingualism can Punjabi mother tongue and exhorted, "Zuban hai ta India reiterates its call to undertake the steps out- advance inclusion, and the sustainable development pehchan hai" (Language alone is our identity'). lined in the working paper, including negotiation in goals' focus on leaving no one behind'. He read out his famous poem on 'Bhasha' (Lan- Two outstanding Punjabi writers and columnists Dr guage), mentioning equal number of letters in words the Conference on Disarmament of a Comprehensive S.S. Chhina and Gurcharan Singh Noorpur were hon- 'Roti' and 'Boli' in order to signify the paramount im- Nuclear Weapons Convention, the foreign secretary ored on this occasion for their stellar contribution to portance of both. Its opening lines read -"Do harfan said. PTI their mother tongue. toh roti bandi do harfan toh bhasha/Dovein khohiyan Dr Lakhwinder Singh Johal, function's Chief Guest jaan jadon vi hundi ghor nirasha/Mardi aasha…"(Two and eminent Punjabi writer and former Producer and syllables each make the words roti and bhasha/The loss of both GLOBAL INDIANS brings the deepest disap- Cont’d from page 5 pointment/Kill- "For a sizable segment of the population, it is gov- ing hope. ernment policy addressing social injustices that lead Noted writ- to a transformative path of sustainable socio-eco- ers and colum- nomic progress, said Rosy Akbar, Fiji's Minister of Edu- nists Dr S.S. cation, Heritage, and Arts. Chhina and The list includes immigrants from India, as well as Gurcharan professionals born in countries such as Singapore, Singh Noorpur South Africa, England, Canada and the US. were given "As a proud Indo-Canadian, it is an honor to be in- Pride of Jour- cluded in the 2021 Indiaspora Government Leaders nalism Award List alongside an accomplished and diverse group of by Trust on this leaders from the India diaspora, said Senator Ratna Noted writer and columnist Gurcharan Singh Noorpur was feted with 'Pride of Journalism Award' by Punjabi Virsa occasion. Trust. Chief Guest Dr Lakhwinder Singh Johal, Awardee Dr S.S. Chhina, Trust President Prof Jaswant Singh Omid. The award Gandam, General Secretary Gurmit Palahi, author Dr Assa Singh Ghuman, poet Baldev Raj Komal are also seen "It is inspiring to see the number of Indian diaspora carried a me- who are entering the public arena," said Indiaspora Director Jalandhar Doordarshan, in his presidential mento, a shawl, a citation and cash. Dr Johal was also Board Member Arun Kumar, chairman and CEO at address, alleged that there was a deep-rooted impe- feted. KPMG India, who served as Assistant Secretary of Com- rialist conspiracy to demean and marginalize the sig- Dr Chhina, in his address, called 'Doaba da dil' merce in the Obama administration. nificance of 22 Indian national languages, including (heart) of Punjab, eulogizing its people as adventur- "Having had the opportunity to serve, I can speak Punjabi, listed in the eighth schedule of country's con- ous, hard working and of an exploring nature that took to what a memorable and fulfilling experience it was. stitution in order to thrust the pseudo-primacy of En- them to foreign shores much before people of other Above all, it was a meaningful way to give back. My glish. regions started emigrating. hope is that this cohort of leaders will set an example Dr Johal, also President Punjab Press Club Jalandhar, Differentiating between 'ruhaniyat' (spirituality) for even more of the Indian diaspora to aspire to pub- said it was a travesty of facts that English was not even and 'duniyandari' (worldliness), he said that while the lic service, Kumar added. mentioned in these 22 national languages but it was former generously gave and shared, the latter merely Amongst Indian-American media, India Abroad and being foisted on countrymen by drumbeating its false got and gathered. India Post have made great impact in informing and significance. Dr Chhina is author of 35 books and has authored connecting the diaspora. As Dr Romesh Japra, publisher He flayed that the administrative language of UT 1000 articles in newspapers and magazines. Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab and Haryana, and India Post Media Group said, "We need to see how we For detailed story visit Nagaland was English. can give back to our motherland". Today, India Post www.indiapost.com reaches out to diaspora in 96 countries worldwide. February 26, 2021 Horoscope India Post 9 www.indiapost.com Your Weekly Future by VANEET SHARMA FEB 26TH to MAR 4TH 2021

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

here would remain n the beginning of he beginning of he beginning of T ups and downs in I the week T the week is not T the week shall en- financial matters there might remain good for your happi- hance your confi- throughout the week. little stress however ness however there dence and working From 3rd March there from 3rd March every- shall be great better- efficiency. You would would be tremendous increase in your thing shall be alright. There shall be tre- ment from 3rd of March and the remain- be spending good time with family and domestic happiness. Your talent of re- mendous improvement in your marital ing part of the week is great for creating friends in the mid of the week. This week sourcefulness shall bring in good news bliss and love life. The cooperation and better solutions for fighting stress is not only excellent for social activities of inflow of money. After the mid of support can be expected from spouse. thereby generating big success in money but your all energies shall also get the week the work conditions shall The 6th & 7th are average dates for de- making, inflow of money, saving poten- channelized in attaining success in per- be fully under control. From 3rd cision making however it shall be a great tial, active social life with an increase in sonality development, enhancement of March you shall succeed in earning period for achieving something special confidence and social influence. Although confidence, working efficiency and part- financial relief. in the area of occult. there might remain stress on mind. nership ventures.

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

he beginning of ou shall be happy he beginning of his week is bring T this week is Y with your sweet T the week indi- T ing good luck not auspicious for your bonding with family cates betterment in to you from the very happiness and state of members in the begin- destiny but there shall beginning of it. The mind. Do not take any ning of the week but be some disturbance domestic happiness important decision during initial two some health related trivial tensions are of mind too. The work area shall improve shall enhance. You shall be developing days. This time can be utilized for refin- also indicated. The confidence and focus and the inflow of money shall get en- strategies for becoming successful in ing planning activities. From 3rd March shall increase with the support of friends hanced along with tremendous im- professional life. 3rd and 4th march is you shall be focused about becoming in the mid of the week. The domestic provement in health, fitness and immu- good for your studies, love life and more fashionable, amiable & sophisti- happiness shall remain good. In the lat- nity in the mid of the week especially. progress of children. Your confidence & cated and eventually your social life shall ter half of the week you shall devise solid On 6th and 7th March you shall have to Immunity level shall be good and you become excellent. There shall be tre- strategies for enhancing saving poten- put a check on your expenses. You shall shall work with focused approach. Cer- mendous improvement in work area on tial and inflow of money. Destiny shall be giving some money in charity also. tain amount of peevishness is indicated 5th, 6th & 7th of this month. favor you in doing well. Travelling is indicated. which would result in some downfall.

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

ou shall be getting his week is excel nitially you shall be our confidence Y good results T lent for all ar- I concentrating on Y level and so- in all areas of life in- eas of life. The 3rd and your education, health cial activities shall be cluding attaining favor 4th March isn't good of children & mother. at its peak in the be- of destiny, excellence for your happiness and From 3rd March you ginning of the week. in professional life with tremendous in- peace of mind. There shall be an increase shall plan to go on journeys to have good Your health shall also be good. You would crease in income. This whole week shall in your savings. Sudden improvement in time with your life partner. You shall be be creating strategies for the development be fulfilling in all aspects but there can work area shall help you impress every- spending on luxuries. Marital bliss shall of your fate and personality and earn ap- be some disturbance on 3rd and 4th day one around. You shall work with balanced be at its climax after the mid of the week. preciation for your abilities as a good con- of the week. 5th, 6th & 7th of March are approach and in this week you shall be Your partnership venture shall be suc- sultant. The latter half of the week is excel- excellent dates for attaining better favor getting solutions for the rectification of cessful. You would get better favor of lent for the progress of your children and of destiny, blessings of divine people and tensions on domestic and work front. This destiny. On last two days of the week you there will be tremendous improvement not higher education. The last day shall bring weak shall be lucky weak for education, might remain slightly upset but remem- only in your pursuits of studies but also be- in lot of appreciation for your work. emotional relations, studies of children. ber it is transformation phase. come a role model for your children.

Kindly read the predictions from your ascendant sign. If you do not know your ascendant sign then read the VANEET same from Moon sign. If Moon sign is also not known then read it from the Zodiac sign. The ascendant sign which is SHARMA calculated from the birth details viz. date, month, year, time & place of birth gives 85 % accurate predictions. The 510-648-4899 accuracy of predictions from Moon sign get limited to only 50 %. The predictions from Zodiac sign are only 25 % “Felicitated and accurate. In nutshell the predictions from ascendant sign are most accurate. In getting personality analysis the traits honored by then President of India Shri given by ascendant sign are 100 % accurate and that is the essence of Vedic Astrology. Pranab Mukherjee" Tech News PM pitches for better coordination between Center, States Rishi Sunak plans new Tech Visas to NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a strong case for repealing archaic laws and making it easier to do busi- boost UK fintech TechBiz ness in India, stating that the center and states need to work closely to boost economic growth. LONDON: Chancellor of the Addressing the sixth Governing Council meeting of Niti Aayog Exchequer Rishi Sunak is plan- via video conferencing, the Prime Minister said that the private ning to lay out details of new sector should be given full opportunity to become a part of fast-track "Tech Visas" in his Bud- 10 India Post www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021 government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat program. PTI get statement next month as part of efforts to boost the UK's financial technology industry, according to a UK media report. Bitcoin's market value tops $1 trillion The senior Cabinet minister has drawn up details for the NEW YORK: The total number scheme to attract global talent of cryptocurrency Bitcoin trad- to UK start-ups and its GBP 7- ing is now collectively worth billion fintech sector, proposals more than one trillion dollars which are said to have the (about Rs 72.73 lakh crore). backing of his boss -- UK Prime CNN reports that the price Minister Boris Johnson. of a Bitcoin hit a number of The Daily Telegraph' quoted new all-time highs on 19 Feb- Whitehall sources with knowl- ruary. One Bitcoin currently edge of the plans to say that costs around 55,000 dollars the new visas are likely to be and there are about 18.6 mil- approved by Tech Nation, lion Bitcoins in circulation, ac- Britain's national network rep- cording to Coinbase. Bitcoin resenting tech entrepreneurs. is a cryptocurrency created in The final details are still be- 2009 by an unknown person ing drawn up, but insiders ex- using the alias Satoshi pect it will be similar to the Nakamoto. Transactions are Global Talent Visa announced anonymous and are made last year to attract the world's with no brokers or intermedi- have surged more than 80 doubled this year. Reddit. leading scientists to Britain, aries. per cent so far this year, and And the price of Dogecoin, According to CNN, corpo- the newspaper claims. One cannot physically use investors are enthusiastically a currency that originally rate America is validating The Global Talent Visa is part Bitcoin, as it is a digital cur- scooping up other started as a dog meme-based Bitcoin. Payments giants of Britain's new post-Brexit rency. And it is decentralised, cryptocurrencies as well. joke, also has skyrocketed Square and PayPal let their us- points-based system for visas meaning that it is not con- Ethereum, the world's sec- this year following several ers buy and sell it. Credit card and immigration, dubbed as trolled by a bank or govern- ond largest cryptocurrency bullish tweets about it by processing behemoths Visa leveling the field for migrants ment. with a total value of 220 bil- Tesla founder Elon Musk and and Mastercard are also em- from within the European CNN said Bitcoin prices lion dollars, has more than support from traders on bracing cryptocurrencies. ANI Union (EU) and beyond, includ- ing countries such as India. While the EU and non-EU citi- zens wanting to live and work in the UK following Britain's exit FM urges industry to unleash animal spirits; from the economic bloc must meet a similar specific set of re- make India fastest growing economy quirements and points under the new system, the Global Tal- NEW DELHI: Finance Minis- mal spirits to show that it is The expression animal spir- confidence in taking action in ent Visa contains no cap on ter Nirmala Sitharaman has possible for India (to be) one of its' was coined by celebrated terms of investment. numbers for people who are exhorted India Inc. to unleash "We need capacities to be suitably qualified. animal spirits and bring in ramped up, we need expan- Sunak is said to be keen to fresh investment to make In- sion, we need more produc- maintain the UK's status as a dia one of the fastest growing tion of very many such prod- global hub for fintech and to economies of the world. ucts, which are so required overcome any challenges as a Speaking to industry lead- for the economy," she said. result of Brexit because such ers at an All India Manage- Post tax reduction, she firms are often heavily reliant ment Association (AIMA) said, "I have been waiting to on European talent. event, she said the govern- see expansion happening, With the Budget in March ment has taken several steps I've been waiting to see due to be dominated by the including reduction in corpo- greater investments from pri- COVID-19 pandemic, the rate tax rate to facilitate in- vate sector in India." newspaper notes that Sunak is vestment. To revive growth, the gov- also expected to rollover many "I would like now, to see ernment in September 2019 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the support schemes due to private investors and private slashed corporate tax rate by expire at the end of March industry in India coming for- the fastest growing econo- economist John Maynard almost 10 percentage points. while lockdown restrictions ward with that, so called ani- mies," she said. Keynes to refer to investors' PTI are gradually lifted. PTI February 26, 2021 TechBiz Post India Post 11 www.indiapost.com Here's what users can face after not Tech Briefs accepting WhatsApp's new privacy policy FB, Google, Microsoft adopt WASHINGTON: After facing ers to comply with the new weeks and for the inactive us- backlash from users over the terms in order to have full func- ers, its policy will apply after Australian misinformation code new privacy policy, the Ameri- tionality of WhatsApp till May May 15. Usually, according to can messaging service 15. The Facebook-owned com- the WhatsApp policy, the ac- SYDNEY: Top tech giants cluded from the code. WhatsApp has come up with a pany also added in the note counts of inactive users get like Facebook, Google, The code was developed list of details of changes that a that, "If the user will not accept deleted automatically after Microsoft, TikTok and Twitter in response to government user could face after ignoring the terms, for a short time, 120 days of inactivity. have agreed on adopting the policy where it asked the Recently, the instant mes- Australian Code of Practice major digital platforms to de- saging service received heavy on Disinformation and Misin- velop a voluntary code of backlash from a portion of its formation that aims to ad- conduct outlining what the clients, most of which were dress the spread of fake news platforms will do to address from its greatest market - In- and disinformation on online concerns regarding dia. Following this, a month ago platforms. disinformation after an in-application alert, The code, and credibility they notified that the users prepared by signalling for have February 8 as the last the Digital In- news content. date to consent to the planned dustry Group The code security terms, which are be- Inc (DiGi), a provides ing made to mirror its new non-profit in- seven guiding drive into internet business. dustry associa- principles, Tech Crunch quoted, "Since tion, will be reviewed in 12 with the first aimed at pro- 2016, WhatsApp's privacy poli- months, reports ZDNet. tecting freedom of expres- cies have granted the service The code will apply to cer- sion. permission to share with tain products and services "Signatories should not be Facebook certain metadata that are delivered to end us- compelled by governments such as user phone numbers ers in Australia, such as user- or other parties to remove and device information. The generated sponsored and content solely on the basis of its terms by the May 15 dead- these users will be able to re- new terms will allow Facebook shared content. its alleged falsity if the con- line. ceive calls and notifications, and WhatsApp to share pay- Private messaging ser- tent would not otherwise be According to Tech Crunch, but will not be able to read or ment and transaction data in vices, email services, and en- unlawful," according to the WhatsApp has detailed what send messages from the app." order to help them better tar- terprise services are ex- code. IANS will happen to users who won't Tech Crunch reported that get ads as the social jugger- agree to new privacy changes the short time of asking users naut broadens its e-commerce through a mail which explains to comply with the norms offerings and looks to merge Apple TV app now available on that it will slowly ask such us- would span ahead for a few its messaging platforms." ANI latest Google Chromecast device WASHINGTON: Apple TV tech giants, which compete Thomas Cook India plans to raise up to app is now globally available on multiple fronts, was an- on the new Google nounced back in December. Chromecast device. The new The Apple TV app pro- Rs 450 cr via preferential issue app will allow users to watch vides access to all the Apple original Apple TV+ content, TV Plus content. Regularly MUMBAI: Thomas Cook (In- In a regulatory filing the of Rs 10 each to Fairbridge as well as access existing priced at USD 4.99 per dia) plans to raise up to Rs 450 company has said that the Capital (Mauritius) Limited, iTunes movie and television month, the subscription VOD crore through preferential is- "Board of Directors of the com- the promoter of the com- show purchases. package is avail- pany, through private place- As per Variety, able to buyers of ment on a preferential basis starting Thurs- Apple devices for aggregating up to Rs 450 day, users with a free one-year crore." the USD 50 period (an offer The issuance would how- Chromecast with Apple has ex- ever be subject to the ap- Google TV tended through proval of regulatory or statu- adapter will be this July). tory authorities including able to access Apple TV. In The Apple TV Plus lineup the Reserve Bank of India and addition, the Apple TV app is of original shows, movies, the shareholders of the com- available on smart TVs from and documentaries includes pany at the forthcoming Ex- Sony and TCL that have the series like 'Ted Lasso', 'For All traordinary General Meeting. Google TV interface and Mankind', 'The Morning sue of Optionally Convertible pany, at its meeting held today, Further, it said that as a result Google said that it will roll Show' and 'Servant', as well Cumulative Redeemable Pref- has, inter alia, approved the is- of the proposed issue, the out to more Android TV-pow- as movies like 'Greyhound' erence Shares (OCCRPS) to suance of up to 45,00,00,000 board approved the increase in ered devices in the next few starring Tom Hanks and Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Optionally Convertible Cu- the authorized preference months. 'Palmer' featuring Justin Limited to the promoter of the mulative Redeemable Pref- share capital from Rs 250 crore The deal between the two Timberlake. ANI company erence Shares of face value to Rs 500 crore. IANS In Brief I am the daughter of immigrant parents US reaches from Mexico. I have H-1B visa cap dedicated my career for 2021 Immigration to building an immigration system WASHINGTON: The US has received enough petitions that lets people live needed to reach the Congres- without fear sionally-mandated 65,000 H- 12 India Post www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021 1B visa cap for the fiscal year 2021 and successful candi- dates for the most sought-af- Biden admin's ambitious immigration bill in ter work visa among foreign professionals, including Indi- ans, would be decided by a Congress; Indian IT professionals to benefit computerized draw of lots. The H-1B visa is a non-immi- WASHINGTON: In a major and their families. "ageing out" of the system. The ruling Democrats have a grant visa that allows the US move that will benefit hun- Those waiting for a Green I am the daughter of immi- majority in both the House and companies to employ foreign dreds and thousands of Indian Card for more than 10 years, grant parents from Mexico. I Senate. However, in the upper workers in specialty occupa- IT professionals in America, the would get the legal permanent have dedicated my career to chamber, they need the sup- tions that require theoretical Biden administration has intro- residency immediately as they building an immigration sys- port of 10 Republicans to get or technical expertise. The duced an ambitious immigra- would be exempted from the tem that lets people live with- the legislation through the technology companies de- tion bill in Congress, which visa cap. out fear, and a system that Congress before it can be pend on it to hire tens of thou- among other things proposes Indian IT professionals, wait- gives immigrants like my par- signed into law. sands of employees each year to eliminate the per-country The Democratic leadership from countries like India and cap for employment-based and the White House hope that green cards. they will get the necessary China. The US Citizenship Act of support in the interest of mil- US Citizenship and Immigra- 2021 proposes a pathway to lions of non-citizens living in tion Services (USCIS) has said it citizenship to 11 million un- the country. has received a sufficient num- documented workers, elimina- Supported by the White ber of petitions needed to tion of per country quota for House, the bill creates an reach the congressionally man- employment-based green earned roadmap to citizenship dated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cards and work authorization for all 11 million undocu- cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa for dependents of H-1B foreign mented immigrants, with an US advanced degree exemp- workers. expedited three-year path to tion, known as the master's The bicameral immigration citizenship, and giving all other cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2021. bill, if passed by both the undocumented immigrants Successful applicants would chambers of the Congress who pass background checks be decided by a computerized House of Representatives and ing for more than a decade ents who sought a better life and pay taxes with an eight- draw of lots. the Senate and signed into law now, and whose number runs and contribute to our nation a year path to citizenship with- We have completed sending by President Joe Biden, would into thousands, are likely to be fair opportunity to thrive, out fear of deportation. non-selection notifications to bring citizenship to millions of the biggest beneficiary of this Sanchez said. It reforms the family-based registrants' online accounts, a foreign nationals, including un- provision of the bill. Immigrants contribute immigration system to keep media release said. documented workers and Authors of the bill Senator greatly to our country and so- families together by recaptur- We will continue to accept those who came to the coun- Bob Menendez and Congress- ciety. They own businesses, ing visas from previous years to and process petitions that are try legally. woman Linda Sanchez told re- pay taxes and teach our chil- clear backlogs, including otherwise exempt from the The legislation would also porters that the US Citizenship dren. They are our coworkers, spouses and children of green cap, it said. PTI benefit hundreds and thou- Act of 2021 establishes a moral neighbors and friends, said card holders as immediate sands of Indian IT professionals and economic imperative and Menendez. family members. a vision of immigration reform We have a historic opportu- It also eliminates discrimina- that is expansive and inclusive. nity to finally enact bold immi- tion facing LGBTQ+ families, PRADEEP ROY-SINGH It grows the economy by gration reform that leaves no provides protection for or- making changes to the em- B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. ployment-based immigration Indian IT professionals, waiting for more than Attorney-at-Law system, eliminating per-coun- a decade now, and whose number runs into Former Assistant State’s Attorney try caps, making it easier for STEM (science, technology, en- thousands, are likely to be the biggest 1 Civil & Criminal Litigation gineering and mathematics) beneficiary of this provision of the bill 1 Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI advanced degree holders from 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc. US universities to stay in the US 1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties and improving access to green one behind; addresses root phans, widows and children, cards for workers in lower- causes of migration and safe- allows immigrants with ap- http://www.proy-singh.com wage industries. guards our country's national proved family-sponsorship pe- It would also give depen- security. We have a moral and titions to join the family in the 2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, dents of H-1B holders work au- economic imperative to get US on a temporary basis while Chicago, IL 60659 Tel: 773-381-1820 thorization, and prevent chil- this done once and for all, he they wait for green cards to dren of H-1B holders from said. become available. PTI February 26, 2021 Immigration Post India Post 13 www.indiapost.com

US lets in asylum-seekers stuck in 'DigiLocker' for Mexico, ends Trump policy MEA's 'Passport SAN DIEGO: After waiting months and sometimes can border cities and made it extremely difficult for Seva' launched years in Mexico, people seeking asylum in the United them to find lawyers and communicate with courts States are being allowed into the country starting Fri- about their cases. NEW DELHI: Inaugurating the 'DigiLocker' plat- day 19 February, as they wait for courts to decide on About 70,000 asylum-seekers were part of the pro- form for the 'Passport Seva Program' of the Minis- their cases, unwinding one of the Trump gram since it started in January 2019. try of External Affairs, Union minister V administration's signature immigration policies that Asylum-seekers whose cases were dismissed or Muraleedharan said it would enable citizens to President Joe Biden vowed to end. denied are not eligible to return to the country, but submit the documents required for passport ser- US officials have not ruled out vices in a paperless mode and they would not be some form of relief later. required to carry the original documents. The Biden administration, Speaking at the event, the minister of state for which stopped enrolling new ar- external affairs said the "Passport Seva Program" rivals on its first day, said last week has brought in huge transformation towards the that asylum-seekers with active delivery of passport services in the country. cases would be released in the "This has seen a sea change in the last six years. United States with notices to ap- The monthly submission of applications has pear in immigration courts closest crossed the one million-mark for the first time in to their final destinations. 2017. I am told that more than seven crore pass- It brought huge relief to those ports have been issued through the Passport Seva who are eligible, while US and UN project till date," he said. officials urged against a rush to "We took several significant steps to improve the border. the service deliv- Nearly 100 people waited for ery experience for hours on 17 February in Tijuana, the citizens. Not "This has seen a sea The number of asylum-seekers coming in initially Mexico, at a border crossing with San Diego before a only the work of change in the last will be very limited, at a border crossing in San Diego Mexican immigration official took questions about the simplifying pass- and expanding to Brownsville, Texas, on Monday and policy change. port rules has six years. The El Paso, Texas. Edwin Gomez, who said his wife and 14-year-old been achieved monthly submission US officials are warning people not to come to the son were killed by gangs in El Salvador after he but also, we have US-Mexico border, saying an estimated 25,000 people couldn't pay extortion fees from his auto repair shop, worked towards of applications has with active cases in the 'Remain in Mexico' program was eager to join his 15-year-old daughter in Austin, taking passport crossed the one and several hundred who are appealing decisions Texas. She already won asylum and is living with fam- services closer to should register on a website that the UN High Com- ily. the doorstep of million-mark for the missioner for Refugees is launching early next week. Who thought this day would come? Gomez, 36, said the citizens," first time in 2017” The International Organization for Migration, the with a smile.I never thought it would happen. Muraleedharan UN migration agency, plans to test asylum-seekers for Across the border from Texas' Rio Grande Valley, added. COVID-19 and will quarantine anyone who tests posi- Enda Marisol Rivera of El Salvador and her 10-year-old Noting that starting passport seva kendras in tive for 10 days before they enter the United States. son have been braving below-freezing temperatures head post offices was a step in this direction, he Friday (19 Feb. 2021) marks a key milestone in un- this week, snuggling under piles of donated blankets said as a result of that, 426 post office passport raveling one of former President Donald Trump's cor- in their makeshift tent of tarps. seva kendras (POPSKs) have been operationalized nerstone policies to deter people from seeking pro- Their propane gas stove froze, she said. Despite the and many more are in the pipeline. tection from persecution and returns the US asylum added hardship from the Arctic blast that hit Texas and This, when added to the 36 passport offices and system to the way it worked for decades. northern Mexico, Rivera was in good spirits and 93 existing passport seva kendras, makes a total But there are unanswered questions, in- of 555 passport offices for the public, the minister cluding how Central Americans who re- The International Organization for Migration, said. turned home will get back to the US- the UN migration agency, plans to test To give further fillip to the citizen-centric ap- Mexico border. proach and enhance the passport service experi- It's also unclear how long it will take to asylum-seekers for COVID-19 and will ence in a paperless mode, "we have now success- work through more than 25,000 active Re- quarantine anyone who tests positive for 10- fully integrated into the DigiLocker platform of main in Mexico cases, with the oldest go- the government", he said. ing first. days before they enter the United States This would enable citizens to submit the docu- US officials say two of the border cross- ments required for passport services in a ings can each handle up to 300 people a day and a closely watching the news. paperless mode through DigiLocker, smaller crossing can take fewer, but they will start well Rivera and her son are among about 1,000 migrants Muraleedharan said, adding that now, they are not below those numbers. The officials didn't specify the living in the tent camp in a sprawling park just south required to carry the original documents. crossings. of the Rio Grande in the Mexican city of Matamoros. "I would also like to add here that as a next step, Biden is quickly making good on a campaign prom- About 850 of them have applied for asylum and were we are working on the idea of a passport to be ise to end the policy known officially as Migrant Pro- told to wait in Mexico for their court dates. included as one of the documents in DigiLocker. tection Protocols, which Trump said was critical to re- Many in the camp turned down offers this week to Moving forward, I am confident that this will help versing a surge of asylum-seekers that peaked in be transferred to city shelters, fearing they would lose the citizens to retrieve the passport whenever re- 2019. their chance at being allowed into the United States if quired," he said. PTI The program exposed people to violence in Mexi- they didn't stay close to the border. AP/PTI 14 India Post www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021

ctor Vivek Anand Oberoi has launched a campaign that aims to allocate educational scholarships worth Rs 16 "Every child from a Acrore to deserving students. The biggest beneficiaries of village, who makes it this program will be children of farmers in rural India. The scholar- ship also aims at assisting children in villages crack JEE and NEET. big, carries not only "Every child from a village, who makes it big, carries not only his family but his his family but his entire village forward with him. There are so many meritorious and talented young students around us but entire village forward they are unable to afford higher education and coaching even at with him? a subsidized rate or go to a college of their choice due to financial difficulties. I didn't want such bright students to be neglected because of the geography they come from. My team and I have put together this initiative to help them achieve their dreams so that they can go out there and make a career," Vivek said. The scholarship program has been launched under the i30 training program, a digitization of mathematician Anand Kumar's Super 30 program. IANS

believe fitness goals should not only focus on outward appear ances. Health begins from inside," believes Malaika Arora. She re Iiterates, "strong is the new healthy." Malaika says yoga helped her sail through her COVID-19 isolation period that drained her both physically and mentally. In a conversation with IANSlife, the actor, who is also the co- founder of SARVA and Diva Yoga that has announced one-year free yoga and mindfulness program across the globe, shares her fitness regime and how she yoga is a big part of it. She also advises her fans on how to achieve their fitness goals. Excerpts: Is yoga part of your daily fitness regime? Malaika: Yes! Very much. I am a strong believer in the power of yoga and yes I practice everyday. I try to practice for roughly an hour a day and on rare occasions when I have a really busy schedule, I try and squeeze in 20 minutes here and there. How did yoga help you through COVID isolation period? Malaika: The COVID isolation is not just physically draining but it is also mentally straining. When you're cooped up in a room, feeling unwell, it can really take a toll on your body. Thankfully my symptoms were not very severe, so medication, rest and a good nutritious diet helped me recover. But most importantly, during COVID I think meditation really helped me. It was very important for me to keep my mind calm with stress at bay. IANSlife For detailed story visit www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021 India Post 15

www.indiapost.com Does fashion ignore the 40-plus woman?

Photo IANS

NEW DELHI: I am 47-years-old and Longevity Center (ILC) found that those understand what your personal style is. tor of Vogue India, this celebrity stylist have worked in fashion for over 25 over the age of 50-years account for You definitely make less fashion faux pas still rocks a bikini better than most years; earning every smile line on my over 50 per cent of the spending in fash- than you did in your 20's, but you still swimsuit cover girls. Anaita was re- face and those extra few kilos around ion -- the fact is mature women have want some style inspiration. I keep cently part of a Gucci social media cam- my mid area. Unfortunately, the indus- more purchasing power and today are reading articles on how "Fifty is the new paign for its iconic Jackie 1961 bag and try I work in writes off every woman also in better shape than ever-- they Thirty" in fashion glossies -- yet when it added her own unique cool girl vibe to over the age of 45. Of course, we all become an easy target for fashion. Yet comes cover girls, women over 40 only her Instagram video for the Italian fash- know the reason, it's because fashion they are ignored. Brands are so occu- tend to be chosen for the "Ageless" or ion house. sees the youth as the future of the in- pied with pleasing millennials and Gen "Fab at Every Age" cover. This at a time Trinny Woodall dustry, and it is where the growth is. But Z-ers, they forget to make styles that when inclusivity is one of hottest fash- I grew up watching "What Not to what about the now? work for today's 40 plus woman. ion talking points. Wear" the BBC makeover show featur- A recent study by the International It is only in your 40s when you really Luckily, there are a handful of real ing Trinny Woodall and Susannah women in this age group who have Constantine--women who always said it great taste, I suggest you follow them as it is. Today Trinny runs her own suc- Starting young is ideal for potential on Instagram -- they have style, sub- cessful make-up company, Trinny Lon- stance and just the right amount of sass. don, (and I suggest every woman over dancers: Choreographer Ashley Lobo Anaita Shroff Adajania 30 use her Miracle Blur -- it smoothens The 40-something fashion power- the face and blurs those lines in an in- NEW DELHI: For Indian-Australian cho- There is nothing wrong with starting house is the name behind some of stant). Trinny's personal Instagram reographer and educator Ashley Lobo, late but if the basics have not been es- Bollywood's red carpet most glamorous handle is the one to follow though, a educating and mentoring aspiring tablished correctly, it is harder for the moments and fashion magazine's glossi- digital closet confidential. From shop- dancers to find their place on the glo- student to grow to the next level of est covers (Anaita has styled everyone ping to styling tips this 50-something bal stage is a big part of his life but he is ease and expertise. Starting young from Aishwarya Rai to Alia Bhatt); likes to have fun with her fashion. Hon- equally pleased when children join his gives dancers more room to explore though her own sense of style is com- est about the aging process, she enjoys classes. genres and career options in the field fortable, carefree yet always chic; she dressing up and her flamboyant (yet He tells IANSlife: "They join to pursue of dance." can go from a handloom sari, a Dior mainly high street) outfit of the day a hobby but often discover a lifelong During the lockdown, dancing gown to a Savio Jon kurta while always choices will always surprise you. IANSlife passion! When dancers start young, helped many of his students to deal injecting her special blend of boho-chic their bodies and with the isolation and says to Ashley, "I For detailed story visit into the look. The launch fashion direc- www.indiapost.com minds are far more can say this from experience that danc- receptive and it is ing is the perfect antidote to lethargy, a joy to see them negativity, and accumulated leap from one unreleased emotions. Even if you don't milestone to want to pursue dancing as a career, it is another. a perfect creative hobby to expend en- ergy, build confidence, develop stamina and a sense of rhythm from a young age. It is also a very healthy mode of self-expression." IANSlife

Ashley Lobo For detailed story visit www.indiapost.com 16 India Post www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021

The largest city in the Spanish region of Andalucia, Malaga is a much more laid back city Alcazaba and Baroque Basilica. than Barcelona or Madrid. Its With great weather, Malaga is cultural significance is com- the perfect combination of cul- historical and cultural for being the pared to Madrid while it offers ture and beautiful beaches. ers of the town headed their provincial capital, birthplace of fa- fine dining and dynamism as There is an old world ambience government from this citadel AMalaga has long lived in mous artist Pablo Barcelona. Being the center and flowing in the air, which just for many years. the shadow of the Andalucian Picasso. The city holds in store transport hub for the Costa del sinks in among the tourists. Roman Theatre: Situated in cities of Seville, Granada and beautiful beaches, challenging Sol region, Malaga is often the center of the city, El Teatro Cordoba. It is the largest city on hikes and amazing architectural flooded with tourists during PLACES TO VISIT IN MALAGA Romano or the Roman Theatre the Costa del Sol and is famous sites. summer. With the brilliance of Alcazaba de Malaga: Lo- is the oldest monument in the various historical and cultural cated on the hilltop in the cen- city. It is built at the foot of the attractions, the city set on the ter of the city, the Alcazaba is an famous Alcazaba, and is one of coast has a lot to offer. The old Moorish castle that was the few ancient ruins still left Gothic cathedral along with the built in the 11th century. One there. narrow streets flanked on both can get brilliant views of the One of the remaining sym- sides by bars and shops, it is a entire city on climbing up the bols of Roman Hispania, the perfect horizon to the urban ramparts. A small palace on the Roman Theatre in Malaga is an chic and contemporary cul- top holds numerous excava- iconic monument in the city. tures. It is one of the oldest sea- tions and historical artifacts. www.holidify.com ports in the Mediterranean re- Built on the ruins of a Roman For detailed story visit gion. The landmarks are a proof bastion, the Alcazaba is an an- www.indiapost.com of the proud past of the city: cient Moorish castle built in the Roman theatre, Moorish castle, ninth century. The Muslim rul- Desi News AAPI's Global Rihanna with Healthcare Summit COMMUNITY Ganesh 2021 to be in Vaizag pendant in India Post News Service topless CHICAGO: The 14th annual ACROSS AMERICA Global Healthcare Summit photo-shoot (GHS) 2021, organized by the Association of American Physi- February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com India Post 17 Details on page 20 cians of Indian Origin (AAPI) in collaboration with the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, will be held at Communities unite to combat Novotel, Visakhapatnam, India from April 30th to May 3rd, 2021. Besides medical profession- Anti-Asian Violence als from India several interna- Courtesy of Google Images tional healthcare industry part- VIDYA SETHURAMAN ners are looking for opportuni- India Post News Service ties and are expected to par- ncidents of harassment, as- ticipate at this event for sault and discrimination greater collaboration on Re- Iagainst Asian Americans search & Development and have escalated during COVID- philanthropic engagements. 19. A rash of brutal crimes tar- geting Asian Americans, espe- Details on page 18 cially elders, highlights an epi- demic of anti-Asian violence and the need for communities Rishi Kumar requests to work together to counter intervention of racial and ethnic divisions and Governor Newsom stereotypes. Speakers pro- vided data on the spike in anti- India Post News Service Asian hate crimes and efforts SARATOGA, CA: Democratic to forge cross-ethnic coalitions Candidate for United States to combat at the EMS confer- and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) and cidents about 71% were cases of public education or legisla- Congress from California's Dis- ence on Feb 19. condemning anti-Asian bias of verbal harassment, while tion. trict 18, Rishi Kumar has con- John C. Yang, President and and discrimination. Govern- shunning or avoidance made Cynthia Choi, co-executive tacted California Governor CEO, Asian Americans Advanc- ment needs to step up and up about 21%. About 9% of the director of Chinese for Affirma- Newsom's office requesting a ing Justice (AAJC) said since educate the community. We incidents involved physical as- tive Action and co-founder of meeting to discuss the recent the start of the pandemic last must also prioritize commu- saults, and 6% included being Stop AAPI Hate, said our com- San Jose Water Company spring, Asian Americans have nity-centered solutions to hate purposely coughed or spit on. munity is fearful of being in the (SJWC) 21.47% increase in cost faced racist violence at a much violence including some re- Women experience hate 2.3 public alone. These incidents of service charge as part of higher rate than previous storative justice approaches. times the rate of men. are stark reminders that ur- their General Rate Case filing years. "There's something going The problem has been espe- gent action must be taken to for 2022-2024. SJWC is a public He had heard "palpable" on across the nation that really cially evident in areas with protect our community from utility in the business of provid- fear within the Asian-American sadly reminds us of some of our large Asian American popula- violence and hate. ing water service to approxi- community about being at- However, even before those mately 231,000 connections tacked, harassed or targeted. "There's something going on across the incidents, many Asian resi- that serve a population of ap- He highlighted the root cause dents saw a rise in hate crimes proximately one million people of these attacks and solutions nation that really sadly reminds us of some of our and verbal attacks, which the in an area comprising approxi- at the national level. He said Stop AAPI Hate project has mately 139 square miles in the repeated racist and inaccurate past experiences as a community," said Manjusha worked to document. We also metropolitan San Jose, Califor- statements about the Kulkarni, executive director of the Asian Pacific have had a period that has nia area that includes the cities coronavirus, which researchers been very anti-immigrant, that of San Jose, Campbell, said coincided with a rise in Policy and Planning Council has been racially divisive. Our Cupertino, Los Gatos, Monte violence against Asian and center tracks and responds to Sereno and Saratoga. Asian American people. incidents of hate, violence, ha- Details on page 20 "We saw how hate speech past experiences as a commu- tions in California and New rassment, discrimination, shun- by using the term 'China virus' nity," said Manjusha Kulkarni, York, Kulkarni said. She said it's ning, and child bullying against led to hate violence." When executive director of the Asian important to report any inci- Asian Americans and Pacific Is- Hindi Club of there is fear, they need a place Pacific Policy and Planning dent to law enforcement. She landers in California and where Illinois celebrates to blame. On racial equity day, Council. added urgent action needs to possible throughout the President Biden issued a presi- The latest numbers from be taken by elected officials on United States, said Choi. We Valentine's Day dential memorandum ac- Stop AAPI Hate show over all levels to put an end to the advocate for local, state, and knowledging the harm caused 2,800 cases of self-reported attacks that have taken place national policies that rein- by harassment and discrimina- Details on page 21 anti-Asian hate crimes nation- throughout the pandemic, forces human rights and civil tion against Asian Americans wide. The majority of those in- whether it comes in the form rights protections. 18 India Post Community Across America February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com AAPI's Global Healthcare Summit 2021 to be in Vaizag, India

India Post News Service nal/Overseas Affairs and regulatory cardiovascular, hypertension, COPD, on- pervised skill transfer. CHICAGO: The 14th annual Global bodies are collaborating with AAPI with cology, maternal and infant mortality, According to Dr. Ravi Kolli, Vice Healthcare Summit (GHS) 2021, orga- the ultimate goal to provide access to and emerging ones - trauma and head President of AAPI, "This international nized by the Association of American high quality and affordable healthcare injury, transplant and minimally invasive health care summit is a progressive Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) in col- to all people of India." robotic surgeries are only some of transformation from the first Indo-US laboration with the Indian Ministry of Chronic diseases, notably diabetes, those that are going to be covered dur- Healthcare Summit launched by AAPI Health and Family Welfare, will be held ing this Summit. An exclusive USA in 2007. Since then, AAPI has orga- at Novotel, Visakhapatnam, India from Healthcare CEO forum brings the nized 13 Indo - US/Global Healthcare April 30th to May 3rd, 2021. healthcare industry perspective, with Summits and developed strategic alli- Besides medical professionals from senior Government officials, both Union ances with various organizations." India several international healthcare and State providing the legislative wis- For more information, please visit industry partners are looking for oppor- dom. Hands-on workshops provide su- www.aapiusa.org tunities and are expected to participate at this event for greater collaboration on Research & Development and phil- anthropic engagements. Hymns to open Mount Pleasant Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalgadda, President of AAPI, observed "Senior leaders from Town Council in South Carolina leading healthcare organizations such RAJ DEEPA as pharmaceuticals, device and medical equipment manufacturers and major indu prayers will start the day of Lead us from death to immortality." Re- medical teaching institutions, hospitals HMount Pleasant Town Council citing from Bhagavad-Gita, he proposes and from the Ministries - Health, Exter- Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalgadda, President of AAPI (South Carolina) on March 9, 2021 with to urge councilmembers and others hymns from world's oldest extant scrip- present to keep the welfare of others ture. always in mind. The honor goes to Rajan Zed who will Hinduism, oldest and third largest deliver the invocation from ancient San- religion of the world, has about 1.2 bil- skrit scriptures remotely before Mount lion adherents and moksh (liberation) is Pleasant Town Council. After Sanskrit its ultimate goal. There are about three delivery, he then will read the English million Hindus in USA. interpretation of the prayers. Sanskrit is considered a sacred language in Hinduism and root language of Indo-European languages. Zed, the President of Universal Society of Hinduism, will recite from Rig-Veda, the oldest scripture of the world still in common use; be- sides lines from Upanishads and Bhagavad-Gita (Song of the Lord), both ancient Hindu scriptures. He plans to start and end the prayer with "Om", the mystical syllable containing the universe, which in Hindu- ism is used to introduce and con- clude religious work. Reciting from Brahadaranya- Prominent people associated with kopanishad, Rajan Zed plans to say Mount Pleasant; located along Cooper "Asato ma sad gamaya, Tamaso ma River; include singers Melanie Thornton jyotirgamaya, Mrtyormamr- and Darius Rucker, golfer D. J. Trahan, tamgamaya"; which he will then inter- and tennis player Shelby Rogers. Will pret as "Lead us from the unreal to the Haynie and Eric DeMoura are Mayor and real, Lead us from darkness to light, and Town Administrator respectively. February 26, 2021 Community Across America India Post 19 www.indiapost.com DE$!neR Motwani

India Post News Service Apart from designing apparels Ms. Oil as well. ntrepreneur Pooja Motwani Motwani owns the Brands My Rajasthan Ms. Motwani has participated in (De$!neR) is not new to the world Concept and Moh Essentials Rose Gold world Sindhi Sammelan San Francisco as E of fashion. She has es- an official fashion & jewelry designer tablished herself since 2004 and did a fashion show . Her concept as a designer, supplier and was to work on Sindhi styles with Sindhi exporter providing the best models and Sindhi music. Ms. Motwani quality products to consum- created a Sindhi fashion show and pre- ers across the world. Her ex- sented in Sindhi Sammelan Sfo and hibitions had started from Toronto that was the lime light of the Delhi (INDIA) and have Event where in she launched Sindhi out- reached as far places as USA , fits & Sindhi Ajrak Dupattas . Canada , St Martin,London, Ms. Motwani created an - Organic | Paris, Dubai, Hong Kong, Reusable | Sustainable Ajrak Handmade China, Singapore and Malay- sia. She also has online stores Apart from designing that deliver products world- wide. With the grace of God apparels Ms. Motwani and experience of almost 16 owns the Brands My years exhibiting in Delhi & out of India, she offers a complete Rajasthan Concept and range of Indian wear ,includes floods. suits, saris, lehngas & costume Moh Essentials Rose Ms. Motwani and her team runs the jewelry designed by Pooja Gold Oil as well Feed the Needy campaign for Covid 19 Motwani and handcrafted by andprovided rations to 3000 families. skilled craftsmen. Motwani's greatest possession is her Mask Collection in Covid Period and happy clients who have immense satis- that has been talk of the collection. faction about their purchase. Being highly concerned towards Madness is perhaps the most com- Strong Support for Neera Women Empowerment Ms. Motwani mon symptom of this genius. It's her has encouraged and helped many girls quality that has inspired Indian wear & in establishing their own business by Jewelry designs by Pooja and her spec- Tanden and Dr. Vivek Murthy giving innovative ideas . Moreover, she tacular range of jewelry. She started out NILA PANDYA is a well-known social worker. She has at the young age of 17. Pooja Motwani contributed tremendously during Kash- has design as her passion for life, which WASHINGTON DC: Indian-Americans at choice to serve as President Biden's top mir floods, Nepal earthquake, Chennai is also symbolized buy the beautiful large here stand solidly with budget advisor. floods, St Martin Hurricane and Kerala 'De$!neR' tattoo on her hand. NeeraTanden and Dr. Vivek Murthy, and Cont’d on page 23 ask for swift confirmations of President Joe Biden's cabinet selections The new Administration has thought- fully selected the most diverse cabinet and senior staff in American history to guide America through multiple converg- ing crises and Indian Americans are heart- ened by the inclusion of outstanding South Asian public servants, including Ms. Tanden and Dr. Murthy. They strongly pitch s the U.S. Senate to confirm them. Neera Tanden was a key architect of the Affordable Care Act, which ex- panded healthcare to millions of Ameri- can families, and has served as a senior policy advisor to Democratic Presiden- tial campaigns and administrations. If confirmed, Ms. Tanden would be the first South Asian member of President Biden's cabinet, and would be the first woman of color to serve as Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Ms. Tanden's longstanding commitment to advancing policies that improve American lives makes her an ideal 20 India Post Community Across America February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com Rishi Kumar requests intervention of Governor Newsom

India Post News Service Rishi Kumar, as the current suspensions against the San Jose Water mobile app was rolled out to make pro- SARATOGA, CA: Democratic Candi- councilmember of Saratoga, California, Company's rate increase proposals. A tests easier, sending thousands of pro- date for United States Congress from and candidate for US House of Repre- million people have benefited. Rishi has test emails to CPUC and Office of California's District 18, Rishi Kumar has Ratepayers Advocate (ORA). Rishi has contacted California Governor also called for the replacement of SJWC Newsom's office requesting a meeting with a municipal water utility company to discuss the recent San Jose Water and over 5,000 have signed the water Company (SJWC) 21.47% increase in petition. cost of service charge as part of their "I invite all the ratepayers of SJWC to General Rate Case filing for 2022-2024. send their protest emails to CPUC. In 10 SJWC is a public utility in the business years, SJWC net income after tax is a to- of providing water service to approxi- tal of $342M. I call upon CPUC to ana- mately 231,000 connections that serve lyze how this money has been spent so a population of approximately one mil- far for infrastructure improvement, wa- lion people in an area comprising ap- ter quality requirements, and to ad- proximately 139 square miles in the dress cybersecurity/ data privacy metropolitan San Jose, California area projects. We need a thorough analysis that includes the cities of San Jose, of San Jose Water's financial state- Campbell, Cupertino, Los Gatos, Monte ments.” Sereno and Saratoga. ---- Kumar stated, "San Jose Water *Rishi Kumar is running for the United Company's profits have skyrocketed. States House of Representatives, California's The ratepayers are feeling the burden Rishi Kumar District 18 seat against a 30-year incumbent. of water rates 2x or 3x compared to In the 2020 general election, Rishi garnered 37% of the votes - the most votes as a district other utility companies. The cost of ser- sentatives CA-18, has rallied the com- spoken up firmly at prior CPUC hearings challenger in the last 30 years - on a people- vice proposal is very drastic and not ac- munity since August 2016 in pushing on this topic. To raise concern for this centric, getting-things-done platform. Rishi back SJWC's frequent rate increase fil- important issue, Rishi established a wa- ceptable, especially given the eco- spent $691K on the race, in comparison to nomic conditions we are in. Our ings - with the support of many elected ter information page and runs the Wa- Rep. Eshoo's $2M. All of Rishi's campaign ratepayers are furious! Emails I have re- leaders regionally. Here is the recent ter Oversight Group, a citizens group funds came from people, whereas 47% of Rep. ceived express despair, an inability to Mercury News coverage. Here is press that is actively pushing back these wa- Eshoo's funds came from PACs. Rishi's put food on the table, and now having coverage in India Post from 2017. ter rates via a simple protest framework grassroots campaign - volunteers from 29 to figure out how to accommodate a Rishi's efforts have resulted in eight - a winning formula - that has been rep- states - led the charge on an unprecedented huge increase in water bill." different rejections or reductions or licated again and again successfully. A district engagement. His platform focuses on addressing some of the tough challenges of the valley such as the pandemic, the Silicon Valley tech exodus, income inequality, Rihanna with Ganesh pendant in topless photo-shoot healthcare, and climate change. Rishi's priori- MADHU PATEL ties for District 18 are at RishiKumar.com CHICAGO: Indian Americans at large lege, and ridiculing entire communities. are upset at singer-actress-business- It was deeply trivializing of immensely woman Rihanna for wearing Lord venerated Lord Ganesha to be dis- Strong Support for Ganesha pendant (on a long necklace) played in such a manner for mercantile covering her belly-button and posted greed. He urged Rihanna to immedi- Neera Tanden and on her official Twitter handle on Febru- ately remove the objectionable picture ary 15,2021calling it highly disgusting. from her Twitter account. Dr. Vivek Murthy Rajan Zed, a front ranking activists Many devotees did wear a Lord Cont’d from page 19 in a statement said that Lord Ganesh Ganesha pendant on short necklace on a is highly revered in Hinduism meant regular basis to express their reverence/ Dr. Vivek Murthy is a decorated phy- to be worshipped in temples or home devotion in Lord Ganesha; but wearing it sician and served as the Surgeon Gen- shrines and not to be used as a fash- as a fashion accessory in a one-time eral during the Obama Administration. ion outlet to push a sexy lingerie line photo-shoot in this disrespectful manner The COVID-19 pandemic has demon- or become a tool for sexy fashion. In- Rihanna Topless Photo Shoot for commercial agenda was quite out of strated to the American public the dire appropriate usage of sacred Hindu line; Rajan Zed indicated. need to have trusted public health pro- deities or concepts or symbols or In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is wor- fessionals in the White House, and Dr. icons for commercial or other agenda shipped as god of wisdom and remover Murthy is beyond reproach. His impec- was not okay as it hurt the devotees, of obstacles and is invoked before the cable credentials, experience, and eth- he said. beginning of any major undertaking. ics are precisely all of the qualities and He emphasized that celebrities and There are about three million Hindus in would be an excellent choice as next companies should not be in the busi- USA. February 15 happened to be Surgeon General, with his swift confir- ness of religious appropriation, sacri- Ganesha Jayanti (Ganesha's birthday). mation. February 26, 2021 Community Across America India Post 21 www.indiapost.com Hindi Club of Illinois celebrates Valentine's Day

India Post News Service songs from across the decades. Anil CHICAGO: It was with great fervor and AseemJha sang 'Yeh Dosti Hum Na and enthusiasm that Hindi Club of Illi- Bhulenge' receiving a huge applause. nois (HCI) celebrated Valentine's Day on Audience and participants danced to February 13, 2021. It was a virtual cel- the lilting tunes and spell binding melo- ebration in keeping with the ongoing dies of today and yesteryears making us COVID19 environment. But airwaves all stomp our feet or join in clapping were reverberating and ethereal love and singing alongside. In between was flowing unabated in this 90 Gurbachan Kaur in her comments ap- minute fun-filled and entertaining preciated enthusiasm and energy of event. the participants and encouraged all to Vijay Chopra, Secretary of HCI maintain such positive and Valentine's opened the event welcoming all par- Day type feelings year around. ticipants and zoom and Facebook live In concluding the event Vijay Chopra audience. Presenters joined in from congratulated all the performers for Chicagoland, Milwaukee area and bringing such high talent together and Florida. making this event a rousing success. Valentine's day at Hindi Club of Illinois The event was emceed by Jyoti He also thanked the sponsors Regal Sharma. Presenters included solos), Anil Jha and son, Aseem Jha (so- and husband Lochan Pandya (solos and Jeweler and Shri Ganesh Temple and RanajoyGanguli (ghazal and song), los and duet), Usha Kamaria introduced duet) Abhishek Sharma (solos)- all sing- event emcee Jyoti Sharma for an excel- Kadambari Adesh (songs medley and her new video release, Nisha Pandya ing romantic and love Bollywood lent job in conducting the event and Anurag Awasthi for equally high level of technical support. Minnesota and India: Trade opportunities in 2021 Next event for HCI will be continua- tion of its popular series Pratibha India Post News Service India has jumped up 79 places from 142 will create new opportunities for US Manch for kids on Saturday, March CHICAGO: Indian Consul General rank to 63 rank over the past five years companies including from Minnesota. 20.2021 This and other club events Amit Kumar addressed the participants in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Busi- Minnesota companies such as 3M, can be seen in Hindi Club of Illinois of the event focusing on "India and Min- ness rankings and underlined that the Target, Best Buy, Cargill, Medtronic, Facebook page. nesota: Trade and Business Opportuni- government is committed to further General Mills, UnitedHealth Group etc. For participating in the Club events ties" co-organized by the Minnesota improving it. He pointed out that IMF are already present in India. or sponsoring, do write to Trade Office in collaboration with the has projected a growth of over 11% for [email protected] or con- For detailed story visit US Department of Commerce and the the Indian economy this year and this www.indiapost.com tact Gurbachan Kaur at 847 962 8565 Indian Consulate in Chicago. or Vijay Chopra at 708 704 7935. CG Amit Kumar provided a brief over- view of India-US relations and outlined the priorities for India-US relations. He spoke about trade, investment, eco- nomic and commercial linkages, and about the measures taken by the gov- ernment to manage the Covid-19 situa- tion as well as further structural reforms in India. He also provided an overview of the Indian federal budget including new avenues for investment particu- larly in the insurance sector, focus on increasing capital expenditure and on infrastructure creation. CG in his address also touched upon the production link incentives in 13 sec- tors of economy totaling around US$ 27 billion and identified a number of sec- tors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, electronics, medical devices and healthcare cooperation, food pro- cessing, clean water technologies etc. where companies from Minnesota en- joy particular strength. Underlining the fact that India is poised for economic growth under- pinned through deeper structural re- forms, simplifying business environ- ment, reducing regulations, infrastruc- ture creation, etc., he pointed out that 22 India Post Community Across America February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com JAINA Convention 2021 Slated for July 1-6, 2021 SURENDRA ULLAL CHICAGO: The Federation of offer attendees a deeper un- Jain Associations in North derstanding of Jain principles America (JAINA) plans holding and values while also helping its 21st Convention on the our communities with a Fourth of July weekend - from roadmap to bounce back. Youth July 1st to 6th, 2021. participation, through JAINA's Every two years, this pre- affiliate organizations, Young mier event brings together Jains of America (YJA), Young 4000-5000 members of the Jain Professionals (YJP), as well Jain Community from across as Jain Connect will be strongly the world. This year, the virtual promoted and encouraged. event is planned to be a global There will be focused programs event and is expected to at- for all age groups: children tract an even larger audience (ages 5-12), youth (ages 13-20), from USA, Canada, India, UK, Jain Networking Forum (ages Australia, UAE and many other 21-29), and adults. countries. Other featured events in- Convention Convener and clude the popular Jain Aca- First Vice President of JAINA, demic Bowl (JAB), a jeopardy Haresh Shah of Delaware, an- style vocabulary game in nounced the start of conven- which young Jains compete tion planning with hundreds of with other teams, Jains Got Tal- volunteers from across the na- ent (JGT) and Tirth Bhav Yatra - tion offering their contribution. A virtual Tirth Yatra of about 12 The Convention Board major Tirth of India and its several com- broadcast live. mittees have Public Rela- been hard at tions and Media work to ensure Committee that this virtual Chair Vipul Shah convention is a confirmed that once-in-a life- spiritual digni- time experience. taries such as The Convention Acharya will feature a state-of- Ratnasundersuri the-art, user-friendly, and Maharaj Saheb, Some of the confirmed speakers for JAINA convention 2021 interactive conference platform RashtrasantGurudev Shree with many features such as an Namramuni, Pramansagarji the keynote address, other fea- Dr. Christopher Miller, Dr. in the evening including Jain online Main Hall, 6 Breakout Maharaj, Sadhvi tured speakers include Shri Steven Southwick, Rahul Drama, Jains Got Talent (JGT), and Rooms, 4 Competition Rooms, CharitraarthPrabhaji and many Gyanvatsal Swami, Brahma Kapoor Jain, Sonam entertaining cultural perfor- and an Exhibition Hall. others will enlighten us with Kumari Sister Shivaniji and Dr. Wangchuck, and Miki Chase. mances from across the world. Enlightening discourses, their wisdom during the Con- VeerendraHeggade. The line- The daily sessions and discus- Virtual kiosks and Exhibition Hall discussion tracks and activities vention. While Gurudev up of other prominent and in- sions will be well-complemented round out the experience for au- planned at this Convention will ShriRakeshbhaiJhaveri will give spirational speakers includes by refreshing Cultural Programs diences with varying interests.

NEAT 2.0 the future of online learning after COVID-19 help or hindrance BABU TANGEWLA he Ministry of Education, tion Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal numbering 79 had gone cator (MBTI) tests, Laboratory the students during Tin association with the All 'Nishank' , Professor Anil D through four rounds of evalua- tools, Coding skills and testing, Lockdown across the country. India Council for Technical Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of tion, to onboard on NEAT Por- Learning games, Career coun- Inaugurating NEAT 2.0 , Education, has launched the AICTE, Professor MP Poonia, tal. More than 2500 evaluations seling, Internship support, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal, Honor- National Educational Alliance Vice Chairman of AICTE, Rajive were carried out by the ex- Placement support, Aptitude able Minister of Education, for Technology (NEAT 2.0) on Kumar, Member Secretary, perts to evaluate these prod- Test, Cognitive skills, Math- Government of India, said, February 16, 2021. AICTE and Shri Buddha ucts. These Edtech companies ematical Skills, Management, "This is a great initiative from The event which was held Chandrasekhar, CCO, NEAT, offer courses on the categories Accounting and finance and the Ministry of Education and at the AICTE Auditorium, New AICTE. like e-content for niche areas courses related to the degree/ AICTE. I hope NEAT 2.0 will be Delhi was blessed with the During NEAT 2.0 launch 48 + having highly marketable skills, diploma of engineering/phar- a new beginning in the his- presence of several eminent EdTech Companies signed Certification courses, Assess- macy/management students. tory of Indian education. personalities including the MoU with AICTE. These ment tests, Psychometric Through NEAT 1.0 - 60,000 + For detailed story visit honorable Minister of Educa- Edtechcompanies products tests/ Myers-Briggs Type Indi- Free seats were provided to www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021 Community Across America India Post 23 www.indiapost.com Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Talks on "Rethinking Education - A journey through Inner transformation"

India Post News Service rious but the very essence of education tion towards higher power and feeling Vote of thanks was proposed by MUMBAI: Prof. Anil D. Sahasrabuddhe i.e. holistic human being is lacking. of seva (service) is of paramount impor- Manoj Kumar Tiwari, Regional officer in Chairman, All India Council For Technical He stressed how the meditation, tance in today's world. which stressed about the need of guru- Deduction (AICTE) welcomed Sri Sri Ravi sudarshan kriya have benefitted Shankar for interactive dialogue on the humanity.He highlighted various initia- topic "Rethinking Education - A journey tives of AICTE like Examination reforms, through Inner transformation". Innovation Council, Smart India The session was full of insights about Hackathon,student induction program, how we can inculcate the human values universal human values program, Indian among ourselves in today's world with- Knowledge system. He further high- out losing out on the knowledge and lighted that in the times of Covid, AICTE application about rapid advancement didn't stop and we have trained more in Science and Technology like AI,IoT than 1 lakh faculty members in emerg- .The session also high- ing areas. lighted about the impor- "We got introduced to Art of Living Session tance of inner transfor- Sri SriRavi Shankar at AICTE Meet mation through the through volunteers technique bestowed three years ago in Dr. Ravindra Kumar Soni, Director, shisya tradition. Otherhigh-ranking offi- by GurudevSri Sri AICTE and got to know ATAL Academies expressed that ATAL cials present from AICTE apart from Ravi Shankar like about Sudarshan Kriya, FDP is world largest faculty develop- above were Rajesh Kakde Advisor-I, and Sudarshan Kriya, Meditation and the out- ment program. He further mentioned Dr Girdhari Lal Garg Asst. Director. Meditation which can come have been tre- that ATAL Academy is also conducting The event can be seen online at help us handle our mendous on AICTE family FDPs in life skill managements long with https://www.youtube.com/ stress and anxiety in as it increased our effi- emerging areas. watch?v=u1GEQWBzU30&t=2536s present environment and ciency in work and taught us remain happy, calm and full of how to keep harmony among compassion . ourselves,"saidProf M.P. Poonia, Vice Chairman Prof Anil said that lot of Chairman, AICTE. He also told that Co- anxieties and conflicts are happening in rona pandemic didn't had and out of the country because of pan- muchadverse effect on our well-being demic and that journey towards hu- because of strong culture of family val- manity seems to be the solution. In the ues, traditions and culture prevalent in ancient times our country had our society. Gurukulasystem through which stu- Prof. Rajive Kumar,SecretaryAICTE dents were trained in philosophy, math- asked Sri Sri that in the times of pan- ematics, along with knowledge about demic, how can spirituality make our science and outside world. No doubt faculty members and students come because of industrial revolution, lot of out of the trauma and whether happi- progress happened in science and ness and sadnessexist only in state of technology, development of gadgets our mind or is it something else. for entertainment and to make life luxu- Guruji replied that faith and devo- 24 India Post Community Across America February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com Budget at a glance NITA RAJESH DHRUVA Chief Executive Keynote Consultancy

Highlights of the Budget 22, many benefits/reliefs are given to be taxed on receipt basis in those coun- equities. (proposed) for the year 2021-22. NRIs. There are few Amendments also tries while on accrual basis in India. This Announcement of Budget proposals he Prime Minister Shri Modi said : proposed by Finance Minister. is usually due to mismatch in taxation were very cheerfully responded by the The budget has a feel of reality 01. Under current law, the worldwide periods. it is proposed to notify rules stock market with Sensex jumping 5% Tand the confidence of develop- income of an Indian Resident is taxable for removing hardship of double taxa- and bank Nifty zoomed 8.3% .This was ment. The impact of Covid-19 across the in India. In case of NRI, only the income tion. the best budget day performance for world has shaken the entire human earned in India is taxable. Under the 05.The union Budget has rationalized the market since 1999. race. Under these circumstances, bud- changes made in the last budget, an the tax on dividends for Foreign Portfo- The table below shows the rise of get highlights India's self-belief and at Indian citizen who is not liable to be lio Investors (FPIs), bringing it at par markets in last five years. the same time it will infuse new confi- taxed in any other country or territory with treaty rates, which could be lower Date BSE Sensex Nifty dence in the world. It's a pro-active shall be deemed to be Resident in In- than 20% tax rate applied presently. 01-01-2017 26626 8180 budget that gives boost to wealth as dia. To give more clarity to the same Rationalizing TDS on dividends for 01-01-2018 33813 10442 well as wellness. definition of "Liable to Tax " it has been FPIs to treaty rates ranging from 5 to 01-01-2019 36068 10793 Shri Modi further said;-We have proposed as under : 15% depending on the country of Resi- 01-01-2020 41254 12183 taken the approach of widening new The term 'liable to tax' in relation to a dent of FPI from current year of 20% will 01-01-2021 47751 13982 opportunities for the growth, creation person means that there is a liability of provide a big cash flow relief for FPIs. The post budget effect is welcomed of new opportunities for our youth, giv- tax on such person under the law for 06.The Budget has also provided that by stock market with a very positive ing a new dimension to human re- the time being in force of any country advance tax liability on dividend in- node bringing the Sensex to 51,544 on sources, develop new sectors for infra- and shall include a case where subse- come will arise only after the declara- 12 Feb, 2021 and Nifty to 15,163 points. structure development and moving to- quent to imposition of such tax liability, tion or payments of dividend so that Foreign investors are steady buyers wards technology and bringing new an exemption has been provided. exact quantum of dividend income can of Indian equities. The overall improve- reforms in this Budget. Indian passport holders who are resi- be figured out. ment in the Indian Economy has made Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman dents in zero tax jurisdictions, such as 07.The budget has proposed an in- NRIs realize the strength and budget presented Union Budget for 2021-22 UAE, Bahamas ,Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, crease in the FDI limit in insurance proposals have reinforced their posi- emphasizing six pillars on which the tive stand on India. budget rests - Health &well being, India has been one of the most attractive destination for Additionally there is ample liquidity Physical financial capital & infrastruc- globally to find way in to emerging mar- ture, Inclusive development of global investors in recent years. This trend continued even ket like India. aspirational India, Reinvigorating hu- during pandemic as India received $28.1 billion by way of The market response to the Budget man capital, Innovation , Research & de- was positive partly due to no new taxes velopment, Minimum Government & Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in the second quarter of were imposed, some excellent policy Maximum governance with full trans- 2020-21, the highest among the major global economies measures, strong focus on infrastructure parency & boldness in budget propos- creation, new set up of vehicle scrapping als focusing on growth. The proposed policy , mega textile plants and addition- Budget of 2021-22 can be called a bud- Kuwait, Saudi Arabia etc. will potentially companies to 74% from present 49% ally health care budget substantially ex- get with Head & Heart in right place be subject to tax in India on their global providing a further boost to FDI inflow. panded to bring growth of health care and is Healthy Wealthy and Wise with Income. Stock Markets and pharma sectors. some unique features very well thought 02. The budget proposal has allowed India's stock market has moved up The market has welcomed the shift of after a lot of research work done and NRIs to create one-person three spots to become the seventh to a growth focus with easy liquidity, ris- farsightedness of Modi Government. company(OPC) to propel entrepreneur- largest in the world in terms of market ing investment and improving risk ap- The Finance Minister said that The ship, by reducing residency limit from value. India is the second best per- petite. Union Budget has marked a clear direc- 182 days to 120 days. With this move former among the top 15 countries in To Summarize tional change for the Indian economy the Government has opened extra 2021 and is inching towards the sixth Overall the Finance Minister has de- with infrastructure, health and agricul- channels of investments and positive to position. livered a well-balancedBudget, which ture identified as three big ticket area reel in overseas Indian talent. Foreign portfolio investors have to a large extent manages the expecta- for expenditure. Budget focused on 03. The Budget has also proposed pumped in nearly $4.05 billion in Indian tions and aspirations of India. Most im- multiplier effect by stress on facilitating foreign participation through infra- equities since January 1 2021. Weak- portantly it is a Budget that ensures private investments with thrust on structure investment trusts by allowing ness in the US dollar and also as per Ana- that the momentum of economic re- transparency and stability. It is a bud- debt financing by FPIs in Real Estate In- lysts, India has been among the better covery shall be sustained with least dis- get which raises resources but not on vestment Trusts (REITS) and Infrastruc- performers because of faster recovery ruption. the back of increased taxation. ture Investment Trusts (InvITs) and ex- in domestic demand after the covid-19 This is an economy and market NRI Corner empting taxes on dividends will lead led disruptions and the Government's friendly budget ; it reflects a change in India has been one of the most at- to more investments. Also relaxing focus on reviving the economy. As per mindset and a bet on growth that we tractive destination for global investors norms on TDS reduces the compliance latest IMF projection India's growth will haven't seen to this extent previously. in recent years. This trend continued burden in REIT and allows investors to rebound sharply to 11.5% in FY22. This budget marks an inflection point even during pandemic as India re- have more cash flow and plan better for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) con- in India's fiscal policy architecture that ceived $28.1 billion by way of Foreign taxation. tinue to bet big on India with their net will be remembered for years to come. Direct Investments (FDI) in the second 04. Relief for NRIs facing Double Taxa- investment in equities hitting $31.7 bil- Despite the current odds, the budget quarter of 2020-21, the highest among tion issue on retirement lion mark so for in 2020-21. After the creates the right policy environment for the major global economies. accounts;?Currently the withdrawal presentation of budget in two days $5 Trillion GDP goal on the strong foun- In current (proposed) Budget 2021- from foreign retirement accounts may alone FPIs pumped in over $ 1 billion in dation of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Realty Tidbits Godrej Properties chosen as Masters of Risk in the Real Estate category Lucky plants MUMBAI: Godrej Properties Limited (GPL) (BSE: GODREJPROP), one of India's leading real estate de- for the home Real Estate velopers, announced today that The India Risk Man- PURNIMA GOSWAMI SHARMA agement Awards has recognized Godrej Properties as the Masters of Risk in the real estate category. lants are crucial in channel For the last six years, The India Risk Management ing the natural flow of posi- P Awards have been recognizing and celebrating tive energy. They also purify those organizations and teams that have signifi- the environment by absorbing cantly added to the understanding and practice of carbon dioxide and provide February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com India Post 25 risk management. PRNewswire relief from stress. 'Most home buyers predict stable property prices over next 1Yr'

NEW DELHI: As real estate "Plants dispel the stagnant prices have been subdued and stale energies from the amid the pandemic, a majority home. They subconsciously of homebuyers in the country connect us to the color green, expect property prices to re- which has therapeutic quali- main steady over the next one ties. According to Vastu year, showed a report by Shastra, healthy growing plants placed in the right di- Anarock and CII. rections, enhance the ability to Property prices across the attract abundance into one's top seven cities largely re- life and improve relation- mained range-bound over the ships," says Nitien Parmar of last few years amid the struc- Vastu Plus, Mumbai. tural reforms, and policy Plants that bring good luck, changes among others. Before harmony and prosperity COVID-19 gripped India, it was Tulsi widely anticipated by experts According to Vastu shastra, that average property prices one of the most powerful, sa- would increase in 2020, but cred and auspicious plants the pandemic derailed this to buy homes right away and fence of uncertainty before cent of the survey's respon- that enhance positivity at probability. 24 per cent respondents have COVID-19. dents will opt for homes in home is the Tulsi or holy basil. "In the short-term (12 already booked properties. Anuj Puri, Chairman of newly-launched projects, "This shrub, which has great months), 67 per cent respon- Around 38 per cent opted for Anarock Property Consultants, which is an increase of 4 per medicinal value, can purify the dents consider prices to re- newly launched projects. said: "The survey underscores cent over the pre-COVID pe- atmosphere and keep mosqui- main stable while only 18 per Real estate's popularity as an the massive impact that the riod, he said. toes away. Tulsi can be grown cent feel they will increase in a investment asset class increased coronavirus pandemic has had Puri, who is also the Chairman at the front or the back of year," said the report. On long- perceptibly post COVID-19. on home-buying decisions. The of CII Real Estate Confluence the house, in the balcony or term basis (in 5 years), 83 per About 57 per cent respondents work-from-home and online 2021, said: "Equally surprisingly, windows, wherever it can be cent respondents think prices now favor property over fixed education culture has resulted there was a decrease in the exposed regularly to sun- will increase, it added. deposits, the stock market, and in buyers seeking larger preference for ready-to-move-in light," says Parmar. Further, nearly 62 per cent gold and around 59 per cent homes, even if it entails mov- homes, a reduction of at least 17 www.housing.com of respondents in the 'CII- property-favoring respondents ing to peripheral areas." per cent since the lockdown For detailed story visit ANAROCK COVID-19 Sentiment were convinced after the pan- New launches are gaining and 6 per cent since the pre- www.indiapost.com Survey' consider it expedient demic unfolded, after riding the traction post-COVID and 26 per COVID levels." IANS

CII-ANAROCK COVID-19 sentiment survey - 43 % homebuyers prefer peripheral areas, millennial buyers up 31 %

MUMBAI: Amidst deals, dis- segment were previously un- The report was un- vestors is currently at 74:26; it mand list counts and cheaper home sure of buying) and 38 per cent veiled today by CII and was 59:41 in pre-COVID period 24 per cent of respon- loans, nearly 62 per cent of opted for newly launched 48 per cent of respondents fa- dents have already booked respondents in the CII- projects. The report was un- knowledge partner voring real estate as an asset homes, influenced by attrac- ANAROCK COVID-19 Senti- veiled today by CII and knowl- ANAROCK at the 3rd CII class are millennials aged 25- tive deals, cheap home loans ment Survey consider it expe- edge partner ANAROCK at the Real Estate Confluence 35 years; before COVID-19, and pandemic-induced ur- dient to buy homes right 3rd CII Real Estate Confluence they were just 17 percent gency to own physical assets away. 24 per cent of respon- themed 'Indian Real Estate Vi- themed 'Indian Real Most NRIs prefer luxury dents have already booked sion 2025'. Estate Vision 2025' homes (INR 90 Lakh - INR 2.5 properties (81 per cent of this The ratio of end-users vs. in- Cr); 3BHKs & 4BHKs top the de- Cont’d on page 26 26 India Post Real Estate Post February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com Blue Mountain Communities introduces a new trend in work from home

orking from home is one of the largest changes we have Wseen from the Coronavirus Pandemic. Many teleworkers say their job responsibilities can mainly be done from home and enjoy the flexibility it provides. However, even as people are becoming more comfortable with re- mote working, some have felt the ef- fects of outgrowing their at home work areas. And what about small business owners that need a space for their busi- ness? Blue Mountain Communities recog- nized there was a void in the market for these remote/small business working space situations. The Plan E at Village Station in Santa Rosa was designed just for this purpose. Situated in the residen- tial neighborhood, the Plan E offers a first-floor workspace and living space on the second and third floors. "After a year of working from home we are all realizing 'the honeymoon is Village Station in Santa Rosa announces a new release of new homes with a real place of business on the first level over.' We added a desk and tack board, fancy lamps to a second bedroom, but accessible bathroom, and easy access residential community of row homes bedrooms, two and a half baths, and all it hardly serves as a real place of busi- to the gorgeous courtyard area. uniquely designed around vibrant prepped for electric car charging. ness," stated Joe Klusnick, Marketing "This home offers people the flexibil- courtyards. The individual spaces in- Prices start in the low $500,000's. Director for Blue Mountain Communi- ity and ease of working from home clude a dog park, bocce court, play- Another notable draw to this commu- ties. "This workspace is different and without the inconvenience of trekking ground / tot lot, picnic areas, and more. nity is the excellent location. In recent perfect for an art studio, physical thera- people up and down the stairs of, what With over half the homes now sold, the years, the county of Sonoma has in- pist, insurance office, or a myriad of vested in a redevelopment vision for the other industries that require more com- "After a year of working from home we are all Sebastopol Road Corridor. With exciting fort and accessibility." improvements including shopping cen- Just released for sale this month, the realizing 'the honeymoon is over.' We added a desk ters, bicycle lanes, public benches, and Plan E is a 1,939 square foot home with new street signs and street lamps, the three bedrooms a den, and two and a and tack board, fancy lamps to a second bedroom, community has become more attractive half baths on the second and third liv- but it hardly serves as a real place of business," and walk able. Village Station is also in a ing floors. These open concept floor SMART Train Quiet Zone, so if and when plans also include an extraordinary bal- residents need to commute, they can cony space. used to be, their personal sanctuary," neighborhood is taking shape and dem- walk to the train station and are just min- The first floor is a dedicated, profes- continued Klusnick. "The only downside onstrates a relaxing atmosphere with utes from highways 101 and 12 for easy sional workspace, complete with a true to these homes is that there are only great synergy. access to the Bay Area. entrance, a large open room enhanced eight available in the whole commu- A total of five floor plans are available Neighboring Sonoma County is well by a wall of windows for a retail-style nity." at Village Station. Ranging from 1,195 to known for its posh wineries, luxurious design and lots of natural light, an ADA Village Station in Santa Rosa is a new 1,939 square feet with three to four day spas, and off the beaten path B&B's making it the perfect weekend escape. The beautiful Armstrong Woods Red- wood Park is a special attraction where CII-ANAROCK COVID-19 sentiment survey... you will find some of the tallest red- wood trees in the world. Cont’d from page 25 respondents now favor property over "The survey underscores the massive Located at the corner of Boyd Street fixed deposits, the stock market, and impact that the coronavirus pandemic & Sebastopol Avenue, the models and Increased demand for bigger homes gold. 59 per cent of property-favoring has had on home-buying decisions. The sales office at Village Station are open across all configurations post-COVID; 69 respondents were convinced after the work-from-home and online education daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm by ap- per cent now prefer bigger 2BHKs (sq. pandemic unfolded, after riding the culture has resulted in buyers seeking pointment only on Tuesday & Wednes- ft. area) vis-a-vis 38 per cent pre-COVID fence of uncertainty before COVID-19. larger homes, even if it entails moving day. Please call 707.521.9587, text Real estate's popularity as an invest- Anuj Puri, Chairman - CII Real Estate to peripheral areas. Surprisingly, new 707.235.2008, or visit ment asset class increased perceptibly Confluence 2021 & Chairman - launches are gaining traction post- www.BlueMountainCommunities.com post COVID-19. About 57 per cent of ANAROCK Property Consultants says, COVID. ANI/NewsVoir for more details. February 26, 2021 Real Estate Post India Post 29 www.indiapost.com Design ideas for kids' room false ceilings SURBHI GUPTA esigning a kid's room is nothing Remember, even at a very early age, Dless than a project in itself, where kids often pay attention to the ceiling. you have to think about themes, colors Understand it as the sky above their and interiors with the right balance of personal little world, as an object of fan- imagination and practicality. Amid all tasy. this, the one thing that is often missed, You can come up with something re- is the ceiling. A false ceiling can trans- ally unusual or funny but ensure that the form the entire character of your kid's child is able to understand it. room, showcasing a playful aura, full of Some of the common themes for brightness. Here are a few false ceiling design ideas for your children's rooms. Design catalogue for kid's room false ceiling 1. A splash of colors Since we are talking about children here, you can experiment with various colors on the ceiling and give it a play- of such designs is endless, you can even entire space an ful aura, to make it a space where your personalize them as per your require- outdoor-like ambi- child feels engaged and relaxed. These ment or ask your child for suggestions, ence. You can also false ceilings can be created using gyp- if they want something that they really experiment with sum board or plaster, depending upon like. night sky and glow- your requirement and the design you 3. Play with lighting effects in-the dark pat- have picked. If you are not comfortable with put- terns, to keep it 2. Favorite characters ting characters or caricatures on the simple and yet, in- You can also choose your kid's favor- ceiling, you can select from the below teresting. ite characters or movies, as an inspira- given ceiling ideas, which look good Things to know before choosing a kids' room false ceilings are heaven, tion for a false ceiling. While the extent with various lighting effects, giving the false ceiling for your kids' room flowers, forests, etc. www.housing.com Health Line

With 97.32% recovery, India's Covid tally reaches 1.09 Cr

NEW DELHI: Continuing its streak of low numbers of One can be said to be perfectly healthy in body and mind only if no part of the body or mind makes itself felt. A part makes itself felt only when there is something wrong with it. You know that you have a head only when it aches. single-day coronavirus cases, Sri Atmananda (1883 - 1959) India reported 12,881 new in- fections in the last 24 hours, 28 India Post www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021 even as its overall tally mounted to 1,09,50,201, health officials said on 18 Feb- UN chief 'extremely grateful' for India's 200,000 ruary. Meanwhile, the Ministry of COVID vaccines for peacekeepers Health and Family Welfare said there were 101 more Covid-19 UNITED NATIONS: UN Secre- cluding advisory, operational dor Bob Rae tweeted: This is an India earlier provided criti- fatalities, taking the overall tary-General Antonio Guterres and transactional support ser- important and generous an- cal medicines, diagnostic kits, death toll to 1,56,014. is "extremely grateful" for the vices and, where needed, exer- nouncement by Indian govern- ventilators and personal pro- For over a month, the coun- gift of 200,000 COVID-19 vaccine cises delegated authority on ment on vaccinating 95000 UN tective equipment to more try has recorded less than doses announced by India for behalf of clients. peacekeepers." than 150 countries, about 80 of 15,000 new infections daily. peacekeepers, the spokesper- them on a grant basis. India, Besides, the daily Covid death son for the UN chief has said. the pharmacy of the world, is toll has been treading below External Affairs Minister S stepping forward to meet the the 200-mark for more than a Jaishankar, while addressing global vaccines challenge, he month now. the UN Security Council meet- said. The health ministry officials ing on COVID-19 on February The vaccine Covishield is the said February 16, the average 17, announced a gift of version of the AstraZeneca/Ox- daily new infections for the last 200,000 COVID-19 doses for ford vaccine produced by the 15 days were oscillating be- the UN peacekeepers. Serum Institute of India. tween 9,000 to 12,000 with "Keeping in mind the UN Covaxin is the indigenously de- deaths between 78 to 120. Peacekeepers who operate in veloped vaccine by pharma On February 9, India had re- such difficult circumstances, company Bharat Biotech. ported 9,110 new cases, the we would like to announce to- Jaishankar said these two lowest this year so far. Last day a gift of 200,000 doses for vaccines have already been year, the lowest 9,633 cases them, he said. granted emergency authoriza- were recorded on June 3. We are extremely grateful tion and additionally, as many as As per the Ministry's data, for this donation announced to- 30 candidates are under various there are 1,37,342 active cases day by the Indian delegation. stages of development. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at present after 11,987 pa- The distribution will be In one of the largest vaccina- tients were discharged in a operationalized by the UN's De- tion drives ever, India will vac- day. Till now, 1,06,56,845 per- partment of Support, Stephane The DOS supports the entire Permanent Representative cinate about 300 million front- sons have been discharged so Dujarric, Spokesman for the UN Secretariat, consisting of al- of Rwanda to the United Na- line and healthcare workers, far. IANS Secretary-General, told PTI. most 100 entities located tions, Ambassador Valentine elderly and vulnerable over the The 200,000 doses essen- around the globe. It is led by Rugwabiza tweeted, "The ges- next six months. India's vacci- tially mean that it will be pos- Under-Secretary-General Atul ture & announcement by India nation program, which began sible to administer the re- Khare and consists of three of- of a gift of vaccines for UN a month ago, has already seen S Africa to sell quired double doses of COVID- fices working in the areas of Peacekeepers is much appreci- nearly 7 million people vacci- 19 vaccines to all UN peace- Support Operations, including ated. Vaccinating #UNPeace nated, he said. COVID-19 vaccines keepers across missions. human resources, health-care keepers who put their lives on Under the initiative Vaccine bought from India According to the UN Peace- management and capacity- frontlines to protect civilians & Maitri, which translates into keeping, currently a total of building, Supply Chain Man- Peace agreements is the larg- Vaccine Friendship, India is pro- JOHANNESBURG: South Af- 94,484 personnel are serving agement and Information and est security multiplier in the viding vaccines to the world. rica will sell the one million in 12 peacekeeping opera- Communication Technology, context of a global COVID-19 While India is a significant doses of the AstraZeneca tions across the world led by the DOS website said. pandemic." source of supply to the COVAX COVID-19 vaccine it bought the Department of Peace Op- facility, the country is also di- from India to its sister coun- erations. India earlier provided critical medicines, rectly sending vaccines to tries in the African Union, A total of 121 nations are diagnostic kits, ventilators and personal friends and partners. Health Minister Zweli Mkhize contributing uniformed per- Starting with our immediate has said. sonnel to the UN peacekeep- protective equipment to more than 150 neighbors, 25 nations across Mkhize spoke 17 February ing missions. India is tradition- the world have already re- after he and President Cyril ally among the largest troop countries, about 80 of them on a grant basis ceived Made in India vaccines. Ramaphosa joined 18 health contributing countries to 49 more countries will be sup- care workers in Cape Town to peacekeeping missions. The announcement by India Jaishankar told the Council plied in the coming days, rang- receive the first Johnson & The UN Department of Op- was welcomed by UN diplo- that India has been very much ing from Europe, Latin America Johnson vaccines to boost con- erational Support (DOS) pro- mats. at the forefront of the global and the Caribbean to Africa, fidence in the country's vacci- vides "operational support to Permanent Representative fight against the COVID-19 South-East Asia and the Pacific nation program. PTI all UN Secretariat entities, in- of Canada to the UN, Ambassa- pandemic. Islands, Jaishankar said. PTI February 26, 2021 Wellness Post India Post 29 www.indiapost.com India's fight against COVID-19 is inspiring the world: PM Modi

HYDERABAD: India's fight against Modi said India's flagship healthcare has become an example for the world," to social welfare schemes, from smoke- COVID-19 is inspiring the world, though scheme Ayushman Bharat--Pradhan he said. free kitchens to banking the unbanked, at the beginning of the pandemic other Mantri Jan Arogya Abhiyan (PMJAY) has The Prime Minister pointed out that from access to technology to housing countries were worried about the more beneficiaries than the population for all, India's public welfare country's situation, Prime Minister of the USA and many European nations. schemes touched many lives. Narendra Modi has said. "At the beginning of this (COVID-19) Even before the global He said India is playing a central role pandemic, the whole world was wor- pandemic came, our nation in global vaccination and the country's ried about India's situation. But today had increased the focus on vision for wellness is as much global as India's fight against corona wellness," the PM said. it is domestic. According to him, India's The nation is fol- idea of wellness goes beyond lowing a human-cen- merely curing a disease and tric approach to fur- there has been an extensive thering global good work on preventive and it is based on a healthcare. healthy balanced wel- He noted that prices of fare and well-being, medicines and medical he said, virtually de- Prime Minister Narendra Modi equipment in India have livering the valedic- been lowered. tory address to India has undertaken among the worlds When the world needed medicines 'Heartfulness Practi- largest public welfare programs in the for COVID-19, India is proud to have tioners' on the occasion of the platinum (coronavirus) is inspiring the entire last six years, aimed at giving the poor a sent them all over. jubilee celebrations of Heartfulness In- world. The alertness of 130 crore Indi- life of dignity and opportunity. Now India is playing a central role in stitute of Shri Ram Chandra Mission. ans in the fight against the pandemic "From universal sanitation coverage global vaccination. PTI TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Taaron Ke Shehar: Taaron Ke Shehar Naach Meri Rani 30 India Post www.indiapost.com February 26, 2021 2 Naach Meri Rani: 3 Teri Aankhon Mein: Teri Aankhon Mein 4 BurjKhalifa: Laxmii 5 Care Ni Karda: Chhalaang 6 Baby Girl: Baby Girl 7 Dil Chahte Ho: Dil Chahte Ho 8 BamBholle: Laxmii ollywood actors Ranbir Kapoor and 9 Aabaad Barbaad : Ludo Shraddha Kapoor, who will share screen B 10 Ae Mere Dil: Ae Mere Dil space for the first time in director Luv Ranjan's yet-untitled next, will soon treat the movie buffs with the upcoming film, the release date of which has been revealed. Indian film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the release date of the movie, which is slated to hit the theatres on the occasion of Holi, next year (March 18, 2022). He tweeted, "RANBIR - SHRADDHA: RELEASE DATE CONFIRMED... #LuvRanjan's next film - not titled yet - to release he Akshay Kumar-starrer Bell on 18 March 2022 [#Holi]... Stars #RanbirKapoor TBottom will see a theatrical re- and #Shraddha Kapoor... Shooting has com- lease on May 28, the makers have menced in #Delhi... Produced by Luv Ranjan and confirmed. Ankur Garg... Bhushan Kumar presentation." "Countdown begins! The upcoming film marks the first-ever col- #Bellbottom to release in cinemas laboration of Ranbir and Shraddha with Luv, near you on 28th May, 2021!" a who has earlier helmed popular films tweet from the film's production like 'Pyaar Ka Punchnama' and house Pooja Entertainment read. 'Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety'. Actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani The yet-untitled also confirmed with a tweet: "Mark film, bankrolled by your calendar #Bellbottom arrives Luv and Ankur in cinemas near you on 28th May, Garg's Luv Films 2021!" and pre- Bell Bottom is an espionage sented by T- thriller set in the 1980s. The film Series' was largely shot in Glasgow, Scot- Bhushan land, amid lockdown. The Ranjit M. Kumar, will Tewari directorial also stars Vaani also star Kapoor, Lara Dutta Dimple Bhupathi and ollywood actor Kapadia Huma Qureshi. Rakulpreet Singh has and B IANS shared the therapy she effectively Boney uses everyday. Kapoor. Rakul posted a picture on Instagram from ANI her Madivian getaway. She is seen in over-water hammock. "Laughter is my everyday therapy!!" she wrote alongside the image. Rakul is all set to star alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Ajay Devgn in the thriller drama "MayDay". The film is directed and produced by Ajay Devgn. The actress will be seen in the role of a pilot. This is her second film with Ajay after "De De Pyaar De". The actress will also be seen in "Doctor G" and a cross-border love story featuring Arjun Kapoor, John Abraham and Aditi Rao Hydari. IANS February 26, 2021 Classifieds India Post 31 www.indiapost.com

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My address is For Classifieds 6458 N Rockwell, # 2 N Ads Call Chicago, IL 60645 NORTHERN CA (Naresh Sodhi) Tel No, 773 403 0950 Tel: 510-938-8667 [email protected] Sd/ Maqbul Ismail Patel (Vidya Sethuraman) Tel. 510-491-4867 [email protected] SOUTHERN CA (Shashi Trivedi) Tel: 562-441-5511/ Fax: 562-947-0632 [email protected] CHICAGO (Ramesh Soparawala) Tel: 773-973-7394 / Fax: 773-973-7396 [email protected] NEW YORK/ NEW JERSEY Naresh:510-938-8667 32 India Post OP-ED February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com Philosophy Reimagining Diplomacy in the Post-COVID RAMAKRISHNA PARAMHANSA dom is a real partner in life. She greatly helps her husband to follow World: An Indian Perspective ankaracharya was a Brahmajnani, to the religious path. After the birth of S. JAISHANKAR be sure. But at the beginning he too S one or two children they live like e enter 2021, hoping to put the spection. Reforming multilateralism is had the feeling of differentiation. He brother and sister. Both of them are COVID-19 pandemic behind us. essential to creating effective solu- didn't have absolute faith that every- W devotees of God - His servant and His While each society has dealt with it tions. thing in the world is Brahman. One day handmaid. Their family is a spiritual uniquely, global diplomacy will never- Fashioning a robust response to the as he was coming out of the Ganges af- family. They are always happy with theless focus on common concerns and COVID-19 challenge is set to dominate ter his bath, he saw an untouchable, a God and His devotees. They know that shared lessons. Much of that revolves global diplomacy in 2021. In its own butcher, carrying a load of meat. Inad- God alone is their own, from everlast- around the nature of globalization. way, India has set an example. That it vertently the butcher touched his body. ing to everlasting. Our generation has been condi- has done by defying prophets of doom Sankara shouted angrily, 'Hey there! What are the signs of a householder tioned to think of that largely in eco- and creating the health wherewithal to How dare you touch me?' 'Revered sir,' having attained Knowledge? nomic terms. The general sense is one minimize its fatality rate and maximize said the butcher, 'I have not touched His tears will flow, and the hair on of trade, finance, services, communica- its recovery rate. An international com- you, nor have you touched me. The his body will stand on end. No sooner tion, technology and mobility. This ex- parison of these numbers tells its own Pure Self cannot be the body nor the does he hear the sweet name of God presses the interdependence and in- story. Not just that, India also stepped five elements nor the twenty-four cos- than the hair on his body stands on terpenetration of our era. What COVID, forward as the pharmacy of the world, mic principles.' Then Sankara came to end from sheer delight, and tears roll however, brought out was the deeper supplying medicines to more than 150 his senses. down his cheeks. indivisibility of our existence. Real glo- countries, many as grants. One is aware of pleasure and pain, A man cannot get rid of body-con- balization is more about pandemics, As our nation embarks on a mass birth and death, disease and grief, as sciousness as long as he is attached to climate change and terrorism. They vaccination effort, Prime Minister long as one is identified with the body. worldly things and loves 'woman and must constitute the core of diplomatic Narendra Modi's assurance that it would All these belong to the body alone, and gold'. As he becomes less and less at- deliberations. As we saw in 2020, over- help make vaccines accessible and af- not to the Soul. After the death of the tached to worldly things, he ap- looking such challenges comes at a fordable to the world is already being body, perhaps God carries one to a bet- proaches nearer and nearer to the huge cost. implemented. The first consignments of ter place. It is like the birth of the child Knowledge of Self. He also becomes Despite its many benefits, the world Made in India vaccines have reached not after the pain of delivery. Attaining Self- less and less conscious of his body. He has also seen strong reactions to glo- only our neighbors like Bhutan, Maldives, Knowledge, one looks on pleasure and attains Self-Knowledge when his balization. Much of that As our nation embarks on a mass vaccination 'Soham' is not right arises from unequal ben- effort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efits, be- attitude for householders tween and assurance that it would help make vaccines within societ- A wife endowed with spiritual ies. Regimes accessible and affordable to the world is wisdom is a real partner in life and dispensa- already being implemented tions that are Ramakrishna Paramhansa oblivious to such happenings are therefore being Bangladesh, Nepal, Mauritius, Seychelles pain, birth and death, as a dream. worldly attachment totally disap- challenged. We must ensure that this is and Sri Lanka but partners far beyond like Self-Knowledge is discussed in the pears. Then he realizes that body and not about winners and losers, but Brazil and Morocco. Ashtavakra Samhita. The non-dualists soul are two separate things. about nurturing sustainable communi- Other key global challenges today say, 'Soham', that is, 'I am the Supreme A man need not fear anything if but ties everywhere. deserve similar attention. As a central Self.' This is the view of the sannyasis of once he receives the grace of God, if COVID-19 has also redefined our un- participant in reaching the Paris agree- the Vedantic school. But this is not the but once he obtains the vision of God, derstanding of security. Until now, na- ment, India has stood firm with regard right attitude for householders, who if but once he attains Self-Knowledge. tions thought largely in military, intelli- to combating climate change. Its re- are conscious of doing everything Then the six passions cannot do him gence, economic, and perhaps, cultural newable energy targets have multi- themselves. That being so, how can any harm. terms. Today, they will not only assign plied, its forest cover has grown, its they declare, 'I am That, the actionless Edited excerpts from the Gospel of greater weight to health security but bio-diversity has expanded and its fo- Supreme Self'? Sri Ramakrishna. The 174th birth anni- also increasingly worry about trusted cus on water utilization has increased. A wife endowed with spiritual wis- versary of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa and resilient supply chains. The stresses Practices honed at home are now ap- dom is a real partner in life. She greatly was celebrated on February 18 of the COVID-19 era brought out the fra- plied to its development partnerships helps her husband to follow the reli- gility of our current situation. Additional in Africa and elsewhere. gious path. After the birth of one or engines of growth are needed to de-risk Dr. S. Jaishankar is the minister of two children they live like brother and 50 SPIRITUAL APPETIZERS the global economy, as indeed is more external affairs of India and author of sister. Both of them are devotees of Vinod Dhawan transparency and market-viability. "The India Way: Strategies for an Uncer- God - His servant and His handmaid. “It’s a lovely book. It feels en- Multilateral institutions have not tain World."The views expressed in this Their family is a spiritual family. They ergetically clear and light. It’s come out well from this experience. article are the writer's own. are always happy with God and His easy to read, dip in and out and Quite apart from controversies sur- "This content originally appeared devotees. They know that God alone is most importantly it offers infor- rounding them, there was not even a in Newsweek (www.newsweek.com) their own, from everlasting to everlast- mation without fluff! Blessings pretense of a collective response to on 02/10/2021." ing. They are like the Pandava brothers; on this project.” Jac O’Keeffe the most serious global crisis since For detailed story visit they do not forget God in happiness or Spirituality teacher based in 1945. This is cause for serious intro- www.indiapost.com in sorrow. USA. A wife endowed with spiritual wis- Available on AMAZON, FLIPKART Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author February 26, 2021 OP-ED India Post 33 www.indiapost.com India needs a more assertive policy on Tibet to counter China PRADEEP S. MEHTA AND JITHIN SABU

he India-China relation- keel. Commercially, we are hit- regard for human rights in Ti- ship is one of the most ting China badly by banning bet with more vigor. Beijing is Tcomplex ones in the their investment and technol- building and filling huge world. It is also quite dynamic ogy even at a cost to us. We are camps in Tibet, which are used SUPPORT MYANMAR and continues to change colors also raising the status of our as stages for forced labor, cul- undreds of demonstrators were hurt and two died of bullet like a chameleon. The border relations with Taiwan. tural genocide, and political in- Hwounds when police fired on them last week in Myitkyina, area in Ladakh where the 1962 On the other hand, the pres- doctrination. According to Myanmar's northern town. The demonstrations grow getting conflict took place is once sure is mounting on India to Lobsang Sangay, the President larger every day, across Myanmar, demanding the army return again embroiled and the Chi- raise the cause of Tibet on in- of the Tibetan Government in power to democratically elected NLD government. The army con- nese Communist Party (CCP) is ternational platforms, as the exile, rural Tibetans counting tinues to arrest leaders and activists who are demonstrating, and playing a game of Chinese United States has set a new di- more than half a million were Aung San Suu Kyi and the former President remain under deten- checkers. In between both In- rection when it passed the Ti- pushed into these camps tion at undisclosed locations. dian Prime Minister, Narendra betan Policy and Support Act where they are indoctrinated The US has imposed strict sanctions against families of the rul- Modi and Chinese President (TPSA) in December, 2020. to think on their lines, accompa- ing Generals, which might not be enough for them to relinquish for life, Xi Jinping has tried to India needs an independent nied by military-style training. power. In a recent statement by Joe Biden, aimed particularly at establish peace but the pow- Tibet policy A large number of rural Ti- China, arguing that democracies around the world must come wows only resulted in plati- In the same light, India betans are forcefully sent to together to shape the rules. He said, "We have to push against the tudes and hortatory state- should inter alia go ahead and other parts of China to work in Chinese government's economic abuses and coercion that un- ments. redefine the Sino-Indian bor- factories and other menial jobs. dercut the foundations of the international economic system." Taking a reality check, even der as the Indo-Tibetan border The forceful relocation of rural The case in point is Myanmar, where China as its largest trading when Xi was to visit and withdraw our old recogni- Tibetans is part of Beijing's ef- partner, is using every possible way to bring Myanmar under a Ahmedabad in September tion of Tibet as being part of fort to extinguish the culture, re- debt trap. According to Myanmar observers, the recent coup 2014, Chinese PLA (People's China. We need to de jure rec- ligion, and language of Tibet. would not have been possible without China's support. Liberation Army) troops had ognize Tibet as an illegally oc- From 2009, more than 150 By and large the current demonstrations have been peaceful people self-immolated in pro- so far, unlike the ones in the past. The people of Myanmar have There was a standoff but no deaths. test against Chinese atrocities in voted for democratic government three times and each time the Later in June 2020, the conflict was much Tibet. Leaders of Tibet have army has taken control and suppressed aspirations of the been requesting the attention of people's mandate. It is time world leaders come together, as sanc- more severe with 20 Indian troops being world leaders to these human tions against military rulers have not worked in the past and glo- killed in the clash, while many more rights violations for a long time. bal leaders may have to take tougher action including military The United States has cata- intervention if need be. Taking cues from the past the army is cer- Chinese troops died too lyzed an international move- tain to circumvent or change rules to suppress the democratically ment by passing the TPSA and elected leaders yet again. picked up a quarrel with the cupied friendly neighbor. This inviting Lobsang Sangay to the Britain is also considering further action against those in- Indian Army on the other side has also been articulated by Ti- US. President Joe Biden has volved in violence against people's peaceful protests against the of the Line of Actual Control. betan leaders in India. An inde- also expressed his interest to coup, said Foreign Minister Dominic Raab. EU, Vice President Jo- There was a standoff but no pendent Tibet policy by India, meet Dalai Lama and has spo- seph Borrell and Singapore have also joined-in to denounce the deaths. Later in June 2020, the similar to TPSA, will help it to ken about appointing a new violence against peaceful demonstrators. conflict was much more severe take a more assertive stance coordinator for Tibetan issues. The world is anxiously watching what sanctions UN may im- with 20 Indian troops being on the Tibet issue while deal- India should reinforce the pose besides the lip service delivered. killed in the clash, while many ing with the CCP. movement by raising the cause The time has come for global support to the citizens of more Chinese troops died too. In order to support Tibet, In- of Tibet on various interna- Myanmar against atrocities being conducted by the military rul- Since then many rounds of dis- dia has been hosting the Ti- tional platforms and by attract- ers over the last 50 years. Things appeared to have taken a turn for cussions have taken place at betan government in exile ing the attention of the inter- the better during last few years but suddenly it is turned back to different levels, but one since China overran the table- national community. If it was square one. doesn't know what will stand. top geography in the 1950s. the 1954 India-China agree- United States and other democratic governments must sup- It is so difficult to trust the Chi- Albeit, India's stand on Tibet ment and the US support in the port and take urgent actions to put pressure to have the army nese. and its proximity to the Central 1970s, which gave recognition return to barracks where they belong, and help the democrati- Border dispute Tibetan Administration and to One China policy and bol- cally elected leaders to restore civilian government. Such action So much for the border dis- Dalai Lama was in accordance stered China's power and le- in Myanmar could set the precedent for other democracies in the pute between India and China with the New Delhi-Beijing un- gitimacy over Tibet, both coun- region. To stop China's expansionist policy in South East Asia, this with no light at the end of the derstanding, beginning from tries should now jointly work could change as to how they will proceed economically and mili- tunnel. This has also got com- 1954 when India signed a together with their democratic tarily. plicated by China building a trade agreement with China. allies against the CCP's expan- China's grip in Myanmar is almost total but the Burmese highway in Pakistan-occupied This stand was maintained sionist designs. South Asia people historically resent the Chinese. An old saying in Burmese, Kashmir, an Indian territory. It is through various joint state- "Tayuk Ka phi, Shan Ga Eyi, shi Det Bama, A Nawk Maa", translated time that we think of a radical ments till 2010 in order to pro- -- Chinese will press, Shan tribes in the north will be crushed and For detailed stories visit step so that the bilateral rela- mote peace and trade. www.indiapost.com remaining Burmese people will disappear. The old proverb might tions are brought to an even The CCP is continuing its dis- come true unless the world helps and supports with the restora- Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author tion of democracy in Myanmar. 34 India Post February 26, 2021 www.indiapost.com