NEW YORK • WASHINGTON D.C. • CHICAGO • ATLANTA • CALIFORNIA VOL 26, No. 1376 February 19, 2021 50¢ Periodical Postage CHINA BUCKLED China was forced to buckle down under Modi

2 Indian-origin experts to key positions BLR Christians Details on page 6 donate Rs 1cr for Ram Temple Myanmar protesters face Details on page 19 20 Yrs prison ‘Tesla to set up Details on page 6 manufacturing unit in K'taka’ AAPI Legislative Day planned on Details on page 10 Capitol Hill CONTENTS Details on page 18 ------30 Classifieds ------31 Indian and Chinese troops disengaging from the banks of the Pangong lake area in Eastern Ladakh on February 16 Community Post ------17-24 (inset) Chinese troops vacate the bunkers. Picture courtesy ANI Cover/Top Stories ------5-9 NEW : Union Minister Anurag Thakur has as- defense sector. They (Congress) could not buy a single Edit Page ------33 Horoscope ------25 This week’s question serted that under the leadership of Prime Minister bulletproof jacket in their 10-year rule while the Modi Narendra Modi, has strengthened its defense government provided 2 lakh jackets to the soldiers. Immigration Post ------12-13 Will Indo-US relations improve Life Style ------14-15 under Biden? sector and even "forced" China to buckle down. They could not buy a fighter jet while we provided 36 OP-ED------32 Addressing women entrepreneurs at a Delhi BJP Rafale jets. Last week’s result Info/Highlights ------4 Mahila Morcha event, the Union Minister of State for "That China was forced to buckle down and India Do you think army will relinquish Real Estate ------28-29 power in Myanmar? Finance also claimed that the Congress did not do showed its might, it happened under Modi's leader- TechBiz Post ------10-11

YES 43% NO 57% much for the defense sector during its 10-year rule. ship. Modi Hai to Mumkin Hai (everything is possible Travel & Hospitality Post ------16 "The Congress says what has been done for the as Modi is there)," Thakur said. Details on page 5 Wellness Post ------26-27 2 India Post February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021 India Post 3 www.indiapost.com

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CHICAGO CHINA BUCKLED Tesla to set up unit in K'taka Ramesh Soparawala Resident Editor Minister Anurag Thakur said under Electric car giant Tesla to set up its A Q Siddiqui Correspondent leadership of PM Modi, India has manufacturing unit in , CM ST. LOUIS strengthened its defense sector and B S Yediyurappa announced on Sat- Ashwin Patel Correspondent even "forced" China to buckle down. 5 urday 13 February. 10 NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY Pinky Kaur Bureau Chief Srirekha N. Chakravarty Correspondent Sukhvinder Saini Circulation Community: Travel:

BOSTON New Year, New Policies Mahansar Gope Gidwani Bureau Chief A Virtual Town Hall took place on Feb 11 Mahansar in , founded in 1768 CANADA for LA County Residents and Reporters by the Thakurs/Chiefs of a branch of Paras Nehra Correspondent on Immigration Reforms - What's Shekhawats, is known for its rich and Changed Now, What Could Change. 17 heritage culture, and its unique liquor. 16 Lakshay Sharma Web Developer

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Indian and Chinese troops disengaging from the banks of the Pangong lake area in Eastern Ladakh on February 16. ANI NEW DELHI: Union Minister Anurag Defense Minister Rajnath Singh an- increase of more than 18.8 per cent has Gandhi's lies in a manner that he will not Thakur has asserted that under the nounced in Parliament recently that In- been done for purchases like fighter forget in his entire life," Thakur claimed. leadership of Prime Minister Narendra dia and China have reached an agree- jets, tanks and ammunition. Rahul Gandhi has been attacking the Modi, India has strengthened its de- ment on disengagement in the North Referring to the new farm laws, the government over the new farm laws, fense sector and even "forced" China to and South banks of Pangong lake in minister alleged that Congress leader border standoff with China among buckle down. eastern Ladakh that mandates both Rahul Gandhi has been "spreading lies". other issues. Addressing women entrepreneurs at sides to "cease" forward deployment of "I asked Congress MPs in the Parlia- A Congress MP in Rajya Sabha sub- a Delhi BJP Mahila Morcha event, the troops in a "phased, coordinated and ment to name the provisions in the new mitted that there was no clause in the Union Minister of State for Finance also verifiable" manner. law that scraps Mandis or MSP but they new laws that scrapped Mandis, he claimed that the Congress did not do Thakur said in this year's Budget, an failed to do so. I have blasted Rahul claimed further. much for the defense sector during its "On one hand a Congress MP (Rahul 10-year rule. "The Congress says what Gandhi), who is the former Congress has been done for the defense sector. president, says Mandis will be scrapped They (Congress) could not buy a single and on the other hand another MP of bulletproof jacket in their 10-year rule Congress says it will not. Congress is while the Modi government provided 2 moving in two directions. If things re- lakh jackets to the soldiers. They could mains like this, the Congress will split not buy a fighter jet while we provided while moving in two streams." 36 Rafale jets. Thakur claimed that Rahul Gandhi "That China was forced to buckle "cannot tell the difference between down and India showed its might, it wheat and barley" like his father Rajiv happened under Modi's leadership. Gandhi also was unable to the "differ- Modi Hai to Mumkin Hai (everything is entiate between red and green chilies." possible as Modi is there)," Thakur said. "What should I ask from such a leader. This is power and the strong leader- They come and tell lies," he said. ship that enhances pride and prestige Terming Gandhi as a "novice" in poli- of the country, he said. tics, Thakur claimed that he brought The border standoff between the In- down Congress's strength from 400 dian and Chinese militaries erupted on Anurag Thakur seats in Lok Sabha to 40, claiming that May 5 following a violent clash in the "That China was forced to buckle down and India was an outcome of "dynasty politics". Pangong lake areas and both sides The minister asserted that the Bud- gradually enhanced their deployment showed its might, it happened under Modi's leadership. get was aimed at turning India into an by rushing in tens of thousands of sol- Modi Hai to Mumkin Hai (everything is possible as economic and manufacturing power- diers as well as heavy weaponry even house and it served the interests of all as the two sides continued military and Modi is there)," Thakur said sections of the society including diplomatic talks. women. PTI 6 India Post Top Stories February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com

Biden administration appoints 2 Indian- Myanmar: Protesters origin experts to key positions face up to 20 Yrs prison under new law HOUSTON: Two Indian-origin experts in public ser- the US House of Representatives to former Fort Bend vice have been appointed by the Biden administra- County Sheriff Troy Nehls in November as the Demo- NAY PYI TAW: Myanmar's military has warned tion to key positions at AmeriCorps, the federal cratic nominee in a deeply Republican district. anti-coup protesters across the country that they agency for volunteering and service. Kulkarni brings a variety of experience in service could face up to 20 years in prison if they ob- Sonali Nijhawan has been named Director of and public affairs to AmeriCorps, including 14 years as struct the armed forces. AmeriCorps State and National, and Sri Preston a Foreign Service officer with the State Department Long sentences and fines will also apply to Kulkarni, 42, was appointed the new Chief of External where he specialized in public diplomacy and worked those found to incite "hatred or contempt" to- Affairs. in public affairs and international information pro- wards the coup leaders, the military said. The le- Though having run for Congress twice unsuccess- grams, completing tours in Taiwan, Russia, Iraq, Israel, gal changes were announced as armored ve- fully in Texas, Kulkarni was certainly noticed by the Jamaica and Washington, the statement said. hicles appeared on the streets of several cities, leadership in Washington. Nijhawan has committed her career to developing the BBC reported on 15 February. leaders and growing na- Hundreds of thousands of people have taken tional service. Most recently, part in protests in recent days. she developed and served The demonstrators are demanding the release as the executive director of from detention of their elected leaders, includ- Stockton Service Corps, a ing Aung San Suu Kyi, and the restoration of de- six-year, USD 12 million ini- mocracy. tiative to address local On Monday (15 Feb.), Suu Kyi's lawyer said she needs through AmeriCorps. would be detained for a further two days. She Her professional back- will then be tried via video link at a court in the ground also includes exten- capital Nay Pyi Taw on Wednesday (17 Feb.), Khin sive experience in educa- Maung Zaw added. tion, AmeriCorps said in a Suu Kyi was rounded up with other members press release. of the government on February 1, but her deten- Inspired by the students, tion was due to end on February 15. families, and AmeriCorps The charges community she met, she against her in- Sri Preston Kulkarni and Sonali Nijhawan went on to help found City Long sentences clude posses- Year Sacramento and launch sion of unlawful Kulkarni's appointment, along with Nijhawan and the organization's 22nd site with 50 new AmeriCorps and fines will also communica- Dan Kohl, reflects the Biden administration's commit- members. tion devices - apply to those found ment to diverse leadership, according to the release Nijhawan also served as the California director of walkie-talkies by AmeriCorps. Education Pioneers where she recruited, placed, and to incite "hatred or used by her se- In their roles, these leaders will use service to sup- supported managers in urban school systems and curity staff. contempt" towards port the administration's agenda, focusing on four of education nonprofits, empowering people to chal- Her party the most urgent challenges of our time: COVID-19, lenge the status quo of our public education system. the coup leaders, the was elected in economic recovery, racial equity, and climate change, She earned a bachelor's in education and psychol- a resounding military said the AmeriCorps said. ogy from Marquette University and a master's in social victory last No- Kulkarni lost his race for the Texas District 22 seat in work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. PTI vember, but the military has alleged voter fraud without pro- viding proof. Indian air ambulance makes emergency The military's heightened presence is the lat- est sign of a potential crackdown on opposition to the coup. landing at Islamabad Airport for refueling The ruling junta has also announced a series of ISLAMABAD: An Indian air ambulance on Sunday low on fuel. The Indian air ambulance with a British legal changes, imposing long prison sentences made an emergency landing at the Islamabad airport patient, a doctor and two nurses was heading to and fines on anyone found to incite hatred to- for refueling. Dushanbe, capital of from Kolkata, India. wards the military, "by words, either spoken or According to Dunya News, the Indian air ambulance After receiving permission from the CAA, the air written, or by signs, or by visible representation". had contacted the Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA) Pa- ambulance landed at the Islamabad International Air- In a statement posted on a military website on kistan and requested permission to make the emer- port. However, it took off after refueling after two 15 February, said people preventing the security gency landing at the Islamabad airport because it was hours, Dunya News reported. ANI forces from carrying out their duties could face seven years in jail, while those found to stir up fear or unrest in the public could be imprisoned for three years. The news came hours after the Internet was restored. Across the country on 14 February, hun- dreds of thousands of protesters rallied against the military for the ninth day in a row. IANS February 19, 2021 Top Stories India Post 7 www.indiapost.com

Indian-American engineer PM hands over indigenous pleads guilty to charges of Arjun tank to Army over $10mn COVID-relief fraud WASHINGTON: An Indian-American engineer in the US has pleaded guilty to the charge of seeking more than USD 10 million in loans under a coronavirus relief program set up to help small businesses, the Department of Justice has said. Shashank Rai, 30, pleaded guilty on Thursday 11 February, to one count of making false state- ments to a bank. He was charged on May 13, 2020, with viola- tions of wire fraud, bank fraud, false statements to a financial institution, and false statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA). As part of his guilty plea, Rai admitted that he sought millions of dollars in forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA from two different banks by claiming to have 250 employees earn- ing wages when, in fact, no employees worked for his purported business. Rai made two fraudulent claims to two dif- ferent lenders to seek loans guaranteed by the SBA for COVID-19 relief through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In the application submitted to the first lender, Rai sought USD 10 million in PPP loan Prime Minister, Narendra Modi at the hand over ceremony of the Arjun Main Battle Tank (MK-1A) to the Army, at Chennai, on proceeds by fraudulently claiming to have 250 February 14. The Chief of the Army Staff, General Manoj Mukund Naravane is also seen employees with an average monthly payroll of USD 4 million. CHENNAI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday world with battle winning efficacy," officials said. In the sec- Shashank Rai, 14 February, handed over to the Army the home-made It is 'infused' with 71 new features and would en- ond applica- Arjun Main Battle Tank (MK-1A) here, dubbed by him sure effortless mobility in all terrains, besides precise tion, Rai 30, pleaded guilty on as an example of India's united spirit as the south target engagement during day and night. sought ap- Thursday 11 February, made armored vehicle will guard the northern bor- The production order opens up a large avenue in proximately ders of the country. defense manufacturing for over 200 Indian companies USD 3 million to one count of At a function, he also accepted a salute by the and scores of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises in PPP loan making false state- of-the-art tank, indigenously designed, devel- (MSMEs) with employment opportunities to 8,000 proceeds by oped, and manufactured by the Defense Research and people, they said. fraudulently statements to a bank Development Organization (DRDO)'s Combat Vehicles The tank is a "shining example" of the Centre's claiming to Research and Development Establishment here. much touted "atmanirbhar bharat," a concept of at- have 250 em- Modi later handed over a replica model of the tank taining self- reliance in various sectors including the ployees with an average monthly payroll of ap- to Army Chief General M M defense. proximately USD1.2 million. Naravane. “Today I am proud to Quoting from revolutionary According to court documents, the Texas "Today I am proud to dedicate Tamil poet and freedom fighter dedicate to the country one Workforce Commission provided information to to the country one more warrior Mahakavi Subramanya Bharathi, investigators of having no records of employee to protect our frontiers. I am more warrior to protect our Modi said that inspired by the wages having been paid in 2020 by Rai or his proud to hand over the indig- frontiers. I am proud to hand former's vision, "India has taken purported business, Rai Family LLC. enously designed and manufac- a massive effort to become self- over the indigenously In addition, the Texas Comptroller's Office of tured Arjun MK-1A." reliant in the defense sector." Public Accounts reported to investigators that Rai "It also uses indigenous am- designed and manufactured Of the two defense corridors Family LLC reported no revenues for the fourth munition. Tamil Nadu is already Arjun MK-1A” in the country, the one in Tamil quarter of 2019 or the first quarter of 2020. the leading auto manufacturing Nadu has already received in- As per court documents, materials recovered hub of India. Now I see Tamil vestment commitments of over from the trash outside of Rai's residence in- Nadu evolving as a tank manufacturing hub of India," Rs 8,100 crore, Modi said. cluded handwritten notes that appear to reflect he said. "We will continue working to make our armed an investment strategy for the USD3 million, "A tank made in Tamil Nadu will be used in our forces one of the most modern forces in the world. At which is the amount of money that Rai allegedly northern border to keep our nation safe. This show- the same time the focus on making India Atmanirbhar sought from the second lender. cases India's united spirit--Bharat's ekta darshan," in the defense sector moves with full speed," he said. The Payroll Protection Program was de- Modi added. Later, in a tweet, he said it was "a special day in our signed to help struggling businesses and hard According to reports, the Heavy Vehicles Factory journey to become Aatmanirbhar in the defense sec- working Americans, not individuals who concoct (HVF) at Avadi here has been placed with a Rs 8,500 tor," referring to Arjun Main Battle Tank (MK-1A). imaginary businesses and employees, said Act- crore order for manufacturing 118 of these tanks. Fifteen academic institutions, eight labs and sev- ing US Attorney Nicholas J Ganjei.PTI Arjun MK 1 Alpha is a "contemporary tank in the eral MSMEs were also involved in the Arjun MK 1A. PTI 8 India Post Top Stories February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com Biden reverses Trump's designation of Houthis as terrorists

NICOSIA: Joe Biden's US Secretary of fuel...By focusing on alleviating the hu- State Antony Blinken has last week, rec- manitarian situation in Yemen, we hope ognizing the dire humanitarian situa- the Yemeni parties can also focus on en- tion in Yemen, announced the reversal gaging in dialogue." of former President Trump's designa- The new US administration made it tion of Ansarallah (the Houthis Move- clear that, although Ansarallah was re- ment) as a foreign terrorist organization moved from the terror blacklist, three of and specially designated global terror- the movement's key leaders would re- ist group. The decision comes into effect main under sanction. Furthermore, it on 16 February. Two weeks before step- stressed that it does not forget ping down, President Trump, designated Ansarallah's "malign actions and aggres- Houthis as a terrorist group, disregard- sion, its crimes and repression of the ing the fact such a decision could lead to people of Yemen and the attacks against the death of thousands of starving US partners in the Gulf." Yemenis. UN Secretary-General Antonio Earlier in the week, President Joe Guterres had stressed a few days earlier Biden announced that the US would end that Yemen was "in immediate danger of its support for the Saudi-backed offen- the worst famine the world has seen for sive operations in Yemen, including a decades." freeze on arms sales to the Kingdom, but Many international humanitarian or- stressed that the US would continue to Joe Biden ganizations, such as "Save the Children" support the Kingdom, as it continues to had made it clear that the decision face attacks on its soil. launched drone attacks on the Abha In- to receive all kinds of support from Iran, would be catastrophic for countless chil- It should be noted that, although the ternational Airport and the King Khalid but could have been disastrous for food dren and their families in Yemen. Aid or- Houthis welcomed the approach of the International Airport in Riyadh and re- and fuel importers as well as on aid ganizations argued that they have no new US administration and said that sumed an offensive against the Yemeni workers in Yemen. choice but to deal with the Houthis, who they were cautiously optimistic, they city of Marib. Antony Blinken had realized this, and are the de facto government in 80 per warned that they will not stop firing The internationally recognized gov- pointed out that his concern about cent of Yemen, and that the designation Trump's designation was that "at least on would put them at risk of prosecution in Many international humanitarian organizations, its surface it seems to achieve nothing the United States. Trump's decision al- such as "Save the Children" had made it clear that the decision particularly practical in advancing the ready has had a chilling effect on hu- efforts against the Houthis and to bring manitarian workers and importers of would be catastrophic for countless children and their families them back to the negotiating table, food, who would be risking prosecution in Yemen. Aid organizations argued that they have no while making it even more difficult to if their goods fall into Houthis hands. provide humanitarian assistance to Announcing the reversal of the desig- choice but to deal with the Houthis people who desperately need it." nation, Antony Blinken said: "We have lis- Obviously, the Biden Administration tened to warnings from the United Na- their missiles until there is a ceasefire. ernment of Yemen, which is backed by should think hard about the effective- tions, humanitarian groups, and biparti- "They started the war and they are the Saudi Arabia and controls about 20 per ness of sanctions and designation of ter- san members of Congress, among oth- ones who should end it," their official cent of Yemen's territory, welcomed rorists, because as a rule, they do not ers, that the designations could have a spokesman said. Just days before the an- Biden's statements, stressing the impor- have the desired results. devastating impact on Yemenis' access nouncement of the removal of the des- tance of supporting diplomatic efforts to Sarah Leah Whitson, Executive Direc- to basic commodities like food and ignation as terrorists, the Houthis resolve the crisis. tor of Democracy for the Arab World, For its part, Saudi says that "like the economic sanctions Arabia said it wel- and terrorist designations applied to comed Biden's "com- Iran, Venezuela and Cuba and entities mitment to cooperate within them, the State Department's with the Kingdom to designation of Ansarallah has nothing to defend its sovereignty do with an impartial assessment of the and counter threats facts on the ground or merits of such a against it." policy. Instead, it has been deployed as It is fortunate that an economic tool of warfare against in- the misguided deci- ternational nemeses in the hopes that sion of Donald Trump they will say uncle to US demands and was lifted before it give up power. Every one of these tar- could have a wide- geted governments remains in power, spread effect. It could while the sanctions against them have not really harm only harmed ordinary people who have Ansarallah's military little to no say in what their govern- leaders, who continue ments do or do not do." ANI February 19, 2021 Top Stories India Post 9 www.indiapost.com

India-Japan partnership has Oxford University Student Union central place in modernization, gets first Indian female president development efforts: Jaishankar GUWAHATI: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S LONDON: Rashmi Samant has made history after she empathetic towards the struggles faced by Jaishankar has said a closer India-Japan partnership is became the first Indian woman to be elected presi- marginalized groups, reads her vision statement. most natural and has had a central place in India's dent of the Oxford University Student Union (SU), on Among her plans, Samant has promised to lobby modernization and development efforts. manifesto promising syllabus decolonization and de- the University and Conference of Colleges to remove "It has long been involved in expansion of our eco- carbonizing the world-famous institution. all statues proven to be imperialist and conduct a nomic and social infrastructure. Across our states and Samant, a graduate student reading for an MSc in comprehensive consultation on the decolonization of cities, Japanese official development systems have energy systems, with a focus on syllabi to ensure Oxford course texts funded roads, rails, urbanization and energy," said sustainability, at Linacre College at "celebrate and educate" Oxford stu- Jaishankar during an event at the water purification the university, scored a landslide win dents about the achievements of di- plant in Kharghuli. Asserting that Japan was the origi- nal model for the revival of nation post-colonialism, the in the election earlier this week when verse scholarly voices. minister said a cumulative impact of this relationship she received 1,966 of the 3,708 votes With reference to the COVID-19 on contemporary India is worth noting. cast for the post amid a large turnout. pandemic and its impact on students, "It is actually remarkable that within a decade, the The Manipal Institute of Technol- she has pledged to lobby for safety India-Japan partnership is today seen in Asia, perhaps ogy, Karnataka, student's Indian roots net and mitigating circumstances for in the world, as most natural and close. The awarding were referenced in her manifesto as her fellow students. of Padma Vibhushan to previous (Japan) PM Shinzo she highlighted the need for greater And, related to her own field of Abe was symbolic of our journey," he added. decolonization and inclusivity on study, her manifesto pledge notes: Jaishankar further said the economic and strategic campus in the Oxford SU leadership Lobby the Conference of Colleges to emergence of the partnership is expressed in a election. divest entire financial portfolio from unique platform on India's Act East forum. Rashmi Samant Together, we can reform long- fossil fuels as soon as possible [and] Jaishankar had earlier visited the Guwahati Water standing shortcomings at the univer- push all colleges to sign on to a uni- Supply Project in with Japanese Ambassador sity, provide students with the resources and support versity-wide sustainability strategy." to India, Satoshi Suzuki. "Visited #Guwahati Water Sup- they need to thrive in Oxford and become leading The president-elect for the 2021-22 term is also ply project site with @DrSJaishankar. Japan is pleased change makers in our society, noted her manifesto. joined by other Indians on her team, including Devika to support this important project. Clean water will Being a BAME [black, Asian and minority ethnic] as Vice-President Graduates-Elect, and Dhitee Goel as soon flow to the homes in Guwahati," tweeted the woman from a former British colony, Rashmi is Student Trustees-elect. PTI Japanese envoy. ANI Tech News Amazon launches seller registrations, account management services in Marathi

Pursuing reforms to NEW DELHI: E-commerce major Amazon on Sunday said sellers make India, world's will be able to register on the Amazon.in marketplace and man- top economies: FM TechBiz age their online business in Marathi, a move aimed at enhancing the sellers' experience on the platform. NEW DELHI: Finance Minis- The development will benefit over 85,000 existing Amazon ter Nirmala Sitharaman has sellers and lakhs of new sellers from locations including Kolhapur, said, the government, unde- Nashik, Satara, Aurangabad, Solapur, Nagpur and Jalgaon among terred by the COVID-19 pan- 10 India Post www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021 many other cities in . PTI demic, has been pursuing re- forms for achieving sustained long-term growth in a bid to make India one of the top US car giant Tesla to set up economies of the world in the coming decades. Replying to debate on Bud- get 2021-22 in Lok Sabha, she manufacturing unit in K'taka: CM said, the Prime Minister did not lose any opportunity to con- BENGALURU: US-based elec- tinue with the reforms and this tric car giant Tesla would set Budget has set the pace for In- up its manufacturing unit in dia to become self-reliant or Karnataka, Chief Minister of Aatmanirbhar. the state B S Yediyurappa an- Earlier this month, the Fi- nounced on Saturday 13 Feb- nance Minister presented a Rs ruary. 34.5 lakh crore Budget for "American firm Tesla will 2021-22, in the backdrop of set up the car-manufacturing the pandemic. unit in Karnataka," the Chief The Budget has laid emphasis Minister said. on increasing capital expendi- In 2021-22, infrastructure ture, raising allocation for development at a cost of Rs healthcare capacity building and 1.16 crore would take place development of agriculture infra- in the state and Rs 14,788 structure, among others, which crore would be released for are expected to have a multiplier the second phase of the effect on the economy. She said Metro Rail work. her Budget for 2021-22, has pro- The Chief Minister said an vided the highest capex growth industrial corridor would be of 34.4 per cent by providing developed in Tumakuru at an more money to railways, roads investment of Rs 7,725 crore Hailing the Union Budget toric, Yediyurappa said it five- trillion economy by and defense. creating 2.8 lakh jobs. presented recently as his- would pave the way for a USD 2025. PTI Referring to a series of mea- sures taken to stimulate the economy hit by the pandemic, she said, COVID-19 did not de- Electric vehicles complete 2 crore km on Delhi roads ter the government from tak- ing up reforms, which are go- NEW DELHI: Electric ve- avoided since the deployment tion. A total of 565 CESL EVs on-year in sales of electric ing to be necessary for sustain- hicles (EVs) deployed in the of EVs and Rs 8.6 crore have are running in the national cars that shows gradual ac- ing long-term goals for this national capital have com- been saved in terms of mon- capital region with more con- ceptance of the technology country. pleted two crore kilometers etary value. sumers being encouraged to among the climate-con- Emphasizing that sustained on the road. The two crore e-kilometers switch to EVs. scious. commitment to reform is Convergence Energy Ser- also contributes to 13.3 lakh li- There has been a rise of Delhi has become the EV blended in the Budget, she vices Ltd (CESL), a wholly ters saving in fuel consump- more than 140 per cent year- hub of India, accounting for said, "Reforms are going to lay owned subsidiary of govern- half of the total 'electric-ki- a path for India to be one of the ment-owned Energy Effi- lometers' in India. The gov- top economies of the world in ciency Services Ltd (EESL), ernment is the biggest de- the coming decades." said this has resulted in a re- mand generator with most On handling of COVID-19 duction of 500 kg of particu- ministries, government late matter emissions, con- companies and other agen- pandemic, the Finance Minis- tributing significantly to cies converting at least ter said, "The death rates are cleaner air and health ben- some part of their fleet into the lowest in the world, active efits for the public. EESL is a electric. cases have come down... we joint venture of NTPC Ltd, "This is an important step have actually managed to Power Finance Corporation, towards India building out bend the curve. And as a result, REC Ltd and Power Grid Cor- an ecosystem for electric the revival of the economy poration. mobility," said Mahua looks a lot more sustainable About 3,573 tons of car- Acharya, Managing Director and this Budget gives neces- bon emission has been and CEO of CESL. ANI sary impetus." PTI February 19, 2021 TechBiz Post India Post 11 www.indiapost.com Innovation key to tackling Tech Briefs Microsoft, Google are concerned carbon emissions: Bill Gates over Nvidia's Arm acquisition

NEW YORK: Innovation is a countries cannot afford to do house gas emissions. WASHINGTON: American customer." key to tackling carbon emis- it. "In my book, I'll share what tech giants Microsoft, However, the rivals of sions, and governments should Gates is going to publish his I've learned from more than a Google, and Qualcomm have Nvidia put up the argument be encouraged to invest more new book titled "How to Avoid decade of studying climate reportedly raised concerns that keeping Arm neutral than what they have done, a Climate Disaster: The Solu- change with experts and in- to regulators in the US, EU, and not using its tech to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates tions We Have and the Break- vesting in the innovations we'll UK, and China, over Nvidia's Nvidia's own gains is not has said. throughs We Need" to be need to address it," he said. acquisition of Arm. what the company would be In a recent exclusive inter- launched 16 February. In the Gates expressed the hope According to The Verge, incentivised to do after pay- view with Xinhua news agency, the companies have ap- ing USD 40 billion for it. The Gates, also co-chair of the Bill & proached regulators with restrictions on licensing Melinda Gates Foundation, concerns that would hurt other cited many sources of emis- Nvidia could companies that sions like steel and cement fac- change how Arm benefit from hav- tories, and the way people licenses out its ing the ability to grow rice, make fertilizer and chipmaking tech- license Arm's raise livestock, saying the nology. Nvidia has technology. world cannot skip over any of pledged that it Nvidia has ar- these to reach zero emissions. would not be us- gued that this ac- "To solve these problems, ing its control quisition is about innovation is a key," he said, over the company to change driving the company's AI ca- noting that the basic R&D is a how it interacts with other pabilities forward, which is huge area for cooperation, es- businesses. Nvidia's CEO an area Nvidia has focused on pecially the most difficult areas Jensen Huang said in a state- heavily, from its machine such as making green hydro- ment that he could "un- learning-powered upscaling gen very cheap to produce equivocally state that Nvidia on its graphics cards to its green steel or green fertilizer. will maintain Arm's open li- work in self-driving cars. "We're all looking forward to Bill Gates censing model. We have no Arm's low-power technology Glasgow in November, and we intention to 'throttle' or could help Nvidia spread AI hope to see a lot more discus- book he suggests some con- that by doing a book, the world 'deny' Arm's supply to any into more places. ANI sion about the innovative crete steps that individuals, can come up with a plan that tools," Gates said, adding that governments and companies involves a lot of innovation, a without innovation, even rich can take to eliminate green- lot of cooperation between Oxford University launches COVID-19 different countries, and a lot of very innovative policies. vaccine study on children Musk to fully support if major During the interview, the US LONDON: The University of coronavirus from it. billionaire philanthropist said Oxford has launched the first While most children are Dogecoin holders sell their coins electric vehicles will absolutely study to assess the safety and relatively unaffected by have a future, even though it is immune responses in chil- coronavirus and are unlikely SAN FRANCISCO: After Dogecoin has surged more only a modest percentage of dren and young adults of its to become unwell with the vouching for Bitcoin, Tesla than 659 per cent this year. car sales today, citing General coronavirus vaccine. infection, it is important to CEO Elon Musk has now said For Musk, Dogecoin is Motors' plan to stop making The university said that establish the safety and im- that if major Dogecoin "people's crypto" and he has gasoline-powered passenger previous trials of mune response cryptocurrency holders sell even bought some coins for cars by 2035. its ChAdOx1 to the vaccine in their coins, he will give them his son. He mentioned many lessons nCoV-19 jabs, children and his full support. Earlier this month, the tech learned from the electric ve- which are being young people as Dogecoin is a cryptocu- billionaire triggered a hicle industry, saying better re- produced by some children rrency invented by software surge in Dogecoin's price sults may be achieved if a lot of AstraZeneca and may benefit from engineers Billy Markus and with a single word tweet those subsidies are shifted into also have a tie-up vaccination, said Jackson Palmer, who decided "doge". these more difficult areas. with the Serum Andrew Pollard, to create a payment system. Dogecoin surged by over Among the new energy cat- Institute of India, Professor of Pae- Nearly 113 billion coins have 50 per cent in just 24 hours. egories, Gates said, he favors have shown that diatric Infection already been mined. In subsequent tweets, nuclear power most, which en- it is safe, produces strong im- and Immunity, and Chief In- "If major Dogecoin holders the Tesla and SpaceX CEO joys advantages in transmis- mune system responses and vestigator on the Oxford vac- sell most of their coins, it will said "Dogecoin is people's sion and maintaining reliability. has high efficacy in all adults. cine trial. get my full support. Too much crypto" and "No highs, no As nuclear plants are becom- From Friday, it would be These new trials will ex- concentration is the only real lows, only Doge". ing safer and cheaper, he extending its trials to assess tend our understanding of issue imo (in my opinion)," Last week, Tesla an- added, it could have a role to if children and young adults control of SARS-CoV2 to Musk said in a recent tweet. nounced it has invested play, because it is always avail- aged 6-17 years also show a younger age groups, he said. Amid the surge in Bitcoin $1.5 billion in the Bitcoin able, no matter what the good immune response to PTI and Ether cryptocurrencies, cryptocurrency. IANS weather. IANS In Brief Under the system, over 60,000 additional Indian IND-AMs are more nationals will unwit- liberal towards tingly be lured to enter issues in US Immigration the United States this WASHINGTON: Indian- year (and every year) to Americans have relatively engage in a life of more conservative views of indentured servitude policies in India while on issues 12 India Post www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021 affecting the US, the diaspora has a more liberal take, accord- ing to a survey of the political attitudes of the influential com- Biden admin urged not to issue H-1B to Indians munity in this country. Indian-Americans comprise till country cap on Green Card is removed slightly more than 1 per cent of the total US population-and less than 1 per cent of all registered WASHINGTON: An influential States this year (and every industries who profit enor- 500 companies. voters. The survey, a collabora- immigration advocacy group year) to engage in a life of in- mously from maintaining the As mandated by the Con- tion between the Carnegie En- representing Indian-Ameri- dentured servitude where status quo, and immigration gress, each year, the US issues dowment for International cans has urged the Biden ad- 85,000 new H-1B visas. Of Peace, Johns Hopkins-SAIS, and ministration not to issue the these, approximately 70 per the University of Pennsylvania, most sought-after H-1B work cent of those new visas (or How Do Indian Americans View visa to any individual born in nearly 60,000 visas) are issued India? Results from the 2020 In- India, till the time the discrimi- to workers from India, Immi- dian American Attitudes Survey, natory country-cap on green gration Voice said. draws on the Indian American cards or permanent legal resi- At the same time, discrimi- Attitudes Survey (IAAS). dency is removed. natory per-country limits es- The IAAS is a nationally rep- The current per-country cap tablished during the time of resentative online survey of on issuing of green cards in the segregation, restrict Indian na- 1,200 Indian American adults US has resulted in Indian pro- tionals to receive only 8,400 of conducted between Septem- fessionals, mostly from the IT the 120,000 employment ber 1 and September 20, 2020, sector, having to wait for de- based green cards available in partnership with YouGov. The cades for their legal perma- each year, Kapoor said. survey has an overall margin of nent residency. Issuing new H- President Joe Biden The non-partisan Congres- error of +/- 2.8 per cent, a re- 1B visas to more Indians would sional Research Service says cent media release said. add to this agonizing painful their very existence and the lawyers who profit from being that this discriminatory and ar- Indian-Americans' policy wait for green cards, Immigra- lives of their families will be able to process the maximum bitrary cap on the number of views are more liberal on issues tion Voice said in a statement. completely subject to the number of immigration applica- Indian nationals who can re- affecting the United States and The statement came in re- whims of their employer, new tions possible by keeping In- ceive lawful permanent resi- more conservative on issues af- sponse to the Biden administrations, or even indi- dian immigrants tied to an end- dency each year has created a fecting India, it said. administration's decision to al- vidual immigration adjudica- less line of renewals of H-1B visa backlog of over one million Regarding contentious is- low employers of H-1B visa tors having a bad day, said applications while also double- people waiting for green sues such as the equal protec- tion of religious minorities, im- holders to begin registration Aman Kapoor, president of Im- dipping to keep the Green Card cards, with a wait time of over migration, and affirmative ac- online for the H1-B Visa lottery, migration Voice. pool open for people from 195 years, he said, adding that tion, Indian-Americans hold starting March 9th this year, for The membership of Immi- other countries, he said. in fiscal year 2030, the line is relatively more conservative the fiscal year 2022. gration Voice called on the Immigration Voice is a na- expected to grow to 436 years. views of Indian policies than of Under the system, over Biden administration to use its tional non-profit organization A majority of the Green Card US policies, according to the 60,000 additional Indian na- authority under INA Section with over 130,000 members, backlog consists of women and survey results. PTI tionals will unwittingly be 212(f) to exclude any new in- who are taxpaying, law-abid- children, who will eventually lured to enter the United dividual born in India who is ing, high-skilled immigrants, die in these backlogs. Need- not currently in the United that advocates for the allevia- less to say, the per-country lim- States legally from obtaining a tion of restrictions on employ- its on the employment-based PRADEEP ROY-SINGH new H-1B visa for the first time ment, travel, and working con- green card system are, in fact, in Fiscal Year 2022, he said. B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Moreover, Immigration In the current system, the only people who Attorney-at-Law Voice calls to stop issuing such benefit are unscrupulous employers, staffing Former Assistant State’s Attorney new H-1B visas until the dis- criminatory per county limits companies across various industries who profit 1 Civil & Criminal Litigation on Employment-Based green enormously from maintaining the status quo 1 Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI cards are finally lifted and im- 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc. migrants from India are no 1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties longer treated as indentured ditions faced by legal high- 100 per cent, an Indian Exclu- servants in the United States, skilled immigrants in the US sion Act'. In reality, this implies http://www.proy-singh.com Kapoor said. working as doctors, research- a de facto ban on employment- In the current system, the ers, scientists, engineers, and based green cards for any new 2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, only people who benefit are other high-skilled profession- Indian national entering the Chicago, IL 60659 Tel: 773-381-1820 unscrupulous employers, staff- als at many of America's hospi- United States on an H-1B visa, ing companies across various tals, universities and Fortune Kapoor said. PTI February 19, 2021 Immigration Post India Post 13 www.indiapost.com

CAA will be implemented after Court awards man 1 yr jail term for visa fraud, says it COVID vaccination ends: Shah impacts India's image

THAKURNAGAR (WB): Union Home Minister Amit "As soon as the COVID vaccination process ends the MUMBAI: A magistrate's court recently awarded Shah announced the process of granting Indian citi- process of granting citizenship under CAA will begin. one year imprisonment to a man who was caught zenship to refugees under the CAA, including to the All of you will be respected citizens of this country," with a forged British Residence Permit at the inter- Matua community of , will begin once the he said, addressing a rally here in the bastion of the national airport here, citing that such offences process of COVID vaccination has ended. Matua community. lower the country's image and pose visa problems Accusing the opposition par- for intelligent students. ties of misleading the minorities Additional chief judicial magistrate (Andheri about the Citizenship (amend- court) R R Khan on February 8 found Hardik Patel, a ment) Act, he said, its implemen- resident of Gujarat, guilty of offences committed tation will not impact the citi- under IPC sections 471 (using as genuine a forged zenship status of Indian minori- document) and 420 (cheating). ties. In the detailed order made available on Febru- Shah said the Modi govern- ary 11, the court observed, "Noticeably, the inci- ment had in 2018 promised it dent is in respect of deceiving the immigration will bring in a new citizenship authorities of two countries - India and the United law and kept it when the BJP Kingdom. The offences are serious." was voted to power in 2019. Due to such offences, job aspirants and intelli- He said, after the country was gent students will not get visa and image of nation hit by the COVID-19 pandemic will be lowered, the court noted. in 2020, its implementation had These offences also have a diplomatic impact, it to be kept in abeyance. added. "Mamata didi said we made a As per the false promise. She started op- However, in 2008, his Union Home Minister Amit Shah prosecution, in posing the CAA and saying she 2010, an immigra- student visa expired will never allow it. The BJP always fulfills the promises Matuas, originally from East Pakistan, are weaker tion officer at the it makes. We have brought this law and refugees will section Hindus who migrated to India during the Par- and he obtained a Chhatrapati Shivaji get citizenship. tition and after the creation of Bangladesh. Many of Maharaj Interna- British Residence them have been accorded Indian citizenship but a tional Airport sizeable section of the population has not got it. Permit from April while checking The Matua community, with an estimated popula- President Biden very clear about Patel's passport 2008 to December tion of three million in the state, can tilt the scales in upon his arrival restoring compassion, order to favor of a political party in at least four Lok Sabha seats 2009 by applying from London had immigration system: White House and more than 30 assembly seats in Nadia, and North certain doubts before the Home and South 24 Parganas districts. It once stood solidly about the resi- WASHINGTON: Joe Biden has been very clear about behind the TMC but had supported the BJP in the Office, it was stated dence permit of restoring compassion and order to America's immi- 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Britain. gration system, according to a senior White House of- A section Further examination revealed that the accused ficial who said the recent executive actions by the US Shah said the Modi of state BJP had gone to the UK on a student visa in 2007, President are just the beginning to correct the "divi- government had in 2018 leadership is which also allowed him to work for 20 hours a sive, inhumane and immoral policies" of the past four apprehen- promised it will bring week. years. sive that the However, in 2008, his student visa expired and A White House spokesman said this after the Biden in a new citizenship law delay and he obtained a British Residence Permit from April administration was urged not to issue the most and kept it when the BJP confusion 2008 to December 2009 by applying before the sought-after H-1B work visa to any new individual over the was voted to power in 2019 Home Office, it was stated. born in India until the country-cap on green cards or implementa- permanent legal residency is removed. tion of the To get more time to work in the UK, Patel ob- "The executive actions signed thus far are just the CAA could make them turn against the saffron party. tained another residence permit from December beginning, a White House spokesperson told PTI. Shah asserted that Banerjee will not be in a posi- 2009 to November 2012 with the help of one "President Biden has been very clear about restor- tion to oppose the implementation of the CAA as she Tejenderpal Singh Parmar and paid 3,000 British ing compassion and order to our immigration system, will cease to be the chief minister after the assembly Pounds to a solicitor. and correcting the divisive, inhumane and immoral polls likely in April-May this year. The investigation officer informed the court the policies of the past four years, which is our focus in the "Mamata Didi is misleading the people on the CAA. British High Commission was contacted for verifi- coming weeks and months," the spokesperson said. But let me tell you that she won't be a position to op- cation and it officially confirmed that residence Biden this month signed three executive orders pose, as she will not be the chief minister after April- permit (from December 2009 to November 2012) that he said would lead to a "fair, orderly and humane" May. We will implement the CAA, it is a law that has used by the accused was forged. legal immigration system and also undo his predeces- been passed by Parliament," he said. The court while convicting Patel said the facts sor Donald Trump's hardline policies that ripped chil- "As the Home Minister of this country, I want to as- and circumstances of the case are self-indicative dren from the arms of their families. sure the minorities of India that none of you will lose that the crime must have been committed in pas- Reversing the Trump administration's "cruel" immi- citizenship. The CAA is about granting citizenship to sion or obsession to earn money by overstaying in gration policies was Biden's one of the key election refugees, it is not about taking away anyone's citizen- the UK. PTI promises. PTI ship," he said. PTI 14 India Post www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021 The jury panel comprised actors , Chitrangada Singh, Pulkit Samrat and renowned designer duo Falguni and Shane Peacock

anasa Varanasi, an engineer from , has bagged the VLCC World 2020 title. 's Mwas declared VLCC Femina India 2020 while 's Manya Singh crowned VLCC Femina Miss India 2020 Runner Up. In a nationwide virtual hunt, a total of 31 finalists were shortlisted for finale that was held in Mumbai on Wednes- day 10 February. The jury panel comprised actors Neha Dhupia, Chitrangada Singh, Pulkit Samrat and renowned designer duo Falguni and Shane Peacock. 2019 - 2nd Runner-up and Miss World Asia 2019; crowned her successor who will represent India at the Miss World pageant that is scheduled to take place later this year. Neha Dhupia said: "Each year as the journey of Femina Miss India begins, it brings back all the memo- ries of the priceless experiences I've had with this pageant. It's almost like reliving every moment of my journey with these young glamorous girls who are so full of enthusiasm and capability to take on the world with power and elegance. Cer- tainly, there are challenges with the digital process in the wake of the pandemic, how- ever I'm confi- dent it will be as exciting and worthwhile irre- spective of the layout." IANSlife

Kurti styling tips for tall girls NEW DELHI: Be it a casual outfit or a beautiful Asymmetric Kurti - Flaunt the Hemline dress for a special occasion, one always wants to look To make a statement nothing can beat an unique and trendy. But, sometimes finding the most asymmetric kurti. The amazing hemline gives it a suitable designs depending on our body type can modern touch. One can pair it with skinny den- be tedious. ims or leggings for a casual outing in style. Kurtis are loved by every Indian girl, and because Thigh Length Kurti - For a Proportionate Torso of the many styles gaining popularity sometimes Thigh length kurtis are a tall girl's best friend. one can get it wrong. Each design suits a particular They elevate your look by making the torso pro- body type and many times tall girls find it hard to portionate, which the short kurti fails to do. You pick the right Kurti. can style them in different ways, some of the best Anuj Mundra, Chairman & MD, Jaipurkurti.com are with skinny jeans, palazzo pants, a sharara, or shares a few tips and styles to help select a look: even with a Patiala shalwar. IANSlife February 19, 2021 India Post 15

www.indiapost.com SNOW ACTIVITIES IN SWITZERLAND

NEW DELHI: Incredible winter scen- Tobogganing in Grindelwald Dog sledge choose to visit Col du Pillon at the wa- ery with majestic snow-capped peaks, If high speed is your idea of fun, a to- Embark on an adventure filled jour- terfall in Les Diablerets; the a plethora of activities and amazingly boggan run is an experience you can- ney with a ride towed by professional Geltenschuss, or the Tungelschuss wa- warm comforting food always makes not miss. You can find your adrenaline sled dogs. This year-round activity, suit- terfalls at the Lauenensee Lake and winter in Switzerland a good idea. A fix as you ride downhill, navigating the able for all ages, is an amazing addition the Burgfalle waterfall in Gsteig. popular skiing destination, Switzerland crazy curves of different mountain to any Swiss winter experience. It can Snowbiking surprises travellers by the abundant peaks. The longest toboggan run in Eu- be an ideal activity for people with re- Snowbiking is a fusion of the best and diverse thrilling winter sports rope - Big Pintenfritz is an absolute duced mobility. The moment when you things from different sports together- (some available all year round at the must for sledding fans. The route is 15 experience the sled dogs' speed, Biking from motorbiking or cycling, perennial snow peaks), which guaran- kilometers long with a vertical descent strength, and endurance will simply Carving from skiing, Cruising from ca- tee plenty of fun and action. of 1,600 meters -- starting from take your breath away. And of course, sual motorcycling! With few basic Here are a few activities to get your Faulhorn sledding down to there's always time for a cuddle with techniques, snowbiking is an easy to adrenaline pumping in the snow in Grindelwald. these loyal four-legged friends. learn sport! Two short skis on the ski Switzerland- Olympic bob run in St. Moritz boots, with a comfortable seat and A bobsleigh track located in the handlebar -- and you are all set to en- Engadin Valley is the world's oldest and joy your ride. the only natural ice bob run still in op- Snowtubing in Zermatt New report suggests cocktail eration. This 75-second ride is an abso- At Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, one lute speed thrill as you touch 135km/hr can enjoy snow tubing in the snow all trends for 2021 moving downhill. year round! But it gets better in winter Ice Climbing in Gstaad as you glide across the slope with fresh NEW DELHI: Domestic hedonism to year in which adults of legal drinking The frozen waterfall in Gstaad offers snow. The altitude of 3883 meters mindful moderation will drive the cock- age are looking forward to reestablish- enthusiastic ice climbers with an adven- takes this adventure to the next level. tail trend in 2021, said a new report. ing connection, creating new rituals, ture-packed challenge. The icy ob- Air-filled round tubes are available for The Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report re- and toasting to simple moments of cel- stacles on the mountain walls not only free on Klein Matterhorn. You simply veals how recent cultural shifts have re- ebration with loved ones." put climbers to test but also gives them make yourself comfortable in one of shaped the beverage industry and also pre- Domestic hedonism an adrenaline kick like no other. This is the tubes, hold on to the handles, and dicts the changes that will happen in cock- The pandemic has transformed our suitable for trained climbers in the com- off you go, zooming down the slope. tail consumption homes into the pany of local mountain guides. Depend- What could be more fun! IANSlife in 2021. focal point of ing on the ice conditions, climbers can For detailed story visit www.indiapost.com "The pan- our social demic has lives. In the shifted UK, one in five mindsets and people are accelerated hosting virtual emerging gatherings; trends, the re- 40 per cent of port is a win- US consumers dow to these are interested changes," says Brenda Fiala, Global Vice in make-at-home cocktail kits and to- President, Strategic Insights and go cocktails (Nielsen CGA). Analytics for Bacardi. Prior to lockdowns, only 1 per cent of "These insights help us navigate the spirits sales were online as people weren't consumer landscape and set the course really aware of shopping of bottles or for future growth, as we enter a new cocktails via their browsers. IANSlife 16 India Post www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021

ahansar is a small the Thakurs/Chiefs of a branch Ramayana are painted on the premise will gladly show you mornings through the villages. town and an erst of Shekhawats. Mahansar is left one, incarnations of Vishnu around. They can also arrange The last bus from Ramgarh- M while principality in known for its rich and heritage on the centre one, and scenes camel safari, or cart rides on Shekawati to Mahansar leaves the Shekhawati region in culture, the Sone-Chandi ki from the life of Krishna are to demand. As also picnic dining at 18:00 from the bus station. Rajasthan. Mahansar village lo- Dukan(Jewelry Shop) dating be found on the right one. near a pond under a canopy. Auto Rikshaw/Tuk Tuk from cated in Jhunjhunu district at a from 1846. It incorporates gold The townis very popular for Bikes for hire are also arranged. Ramgarhwill drop you to distance of 40 km from leaf in its intricate paintings. its heritage liquour which has Traveling Around: Mahansar for 150 rupees. Jhunjhunu town. This haveli has three vaulted been dubbed as 'Mahansar li- From Mahansar you can It was founded in 1768 by ceilings; scenes from the quor'. By the efforts of Rajendra make day trips to Ramghar- Accomodation: Singh Shekhawat,(scion from Shekawati that is 6-7 kilome- Mahansar Fort Heritage Ho- the 8th generation of Mahansar ters away from Mahansar. There tel is a classic heritage-style family) Mahansar Heritage Li- are local buses from Bissau ply- budget-hotel operating as a quor has gained popularity in ing through Mahansar every family home-stay with some of various states of India like hour. If you are adventurous the most exclusive interiors Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, you can also take a long walk and ambience you can find Chandigarh, , Ramghar-Shekawati in the here. It offers a wide range of and . Even personalized services and fa- in the past Mahansar drinks and cilities to help make your stay culture were appreciated by in Mahansar a memorable one. various visitors from all across The hotel has a delectable the globe. range of on of- fer. Local Attractions: Overall a great place to Mahansar has the take a break from the beautifully preserved hustle and bustle of India, 'Dance Hall' and see some nice havelis and 'Jewellery Shop' They are relax on the rooftop terraces open only on demand and for while avoiding the touristy a small entrance fees. There are Mandawa. a few hawelis around the fort, The closest railway hub is which the owners of the Fort Churu and there are buses who run a heritage hotel on from Ramgarh/Bissau. Desi News Washington Hospital COMMUNITY Shobhana Healthcare System Sanghvi n celebration of the Lunar passes New Year, Citizens for Better ACROSS AMERICA I away Community (CUBIC) of Fre- mont, the Harem Rotary Club in Silicon Valley and Saigon Sea- February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com India Post 17 Details on page 19 food Harbor Newark teamed up to order 300 dim sum meals and cakes delivered to nurses, NEW YEAR, NEW POLICIES: What you and your family need to know about immigration changes under President Biden

VIDYA SETHURAMAN Maria. TPS beneficiaries are in- mally rescinded the "zero tol- vices that are available to India Post News Service dividuals from countries rav- erance" policy that led to fam- them. resident Biden's pro- aged by natural disasters or ily separation. Immigrant advo- Adriana L. Garcia, Associate posed immigration re political unrest who cannot re- cates are still searching for Director, LA City Office of Immi- P forms and new execu- turn to their homes. If you are hundreds of parents. There are grant Affairs addressed the im- tive orders have raised expec- in TPS, we urge you to seek le- more than 600 separated par- migration fraud, which is inevi- tations among immigrants gal consultation and see if you ents they haven't been able to table when there is a change in across LA County. A Virtual are eligible for other immigra- reach and hundreds more who any immigrant law. All these Town Hall took place on Feb 11 tion relief. President Biden also have been located but still are memorandum signed by Presi- physicians and staff at Wash- for LA County Residents and extended Deferred Enforced not reunited with their kids. LA dent Biden is not a law yet. ington Hospital. We are so Reporters on Immigration Re- Adriana warns of immigration grateful for the outpouring of forms - What's Changed Now, As the second-largest city in the United States, consultant scammers target- What Could Change. As the ing those in need of immigra- support for our frontline work- Los Angeles is home to immigrants from more ers during the Covid-19 pan- second-largest city in the tion assistance. To prevent be- demic. For more information United States, Los Angeles is than 140 countries. L.A. County has more than 3.6 ing a victim of an immigration home to immigrants from consultant scam, the L.A. on how you can get involved, million immigrants, a third of the population please reach out for more than 140 countries. L.A. County District Attorney's Of- [email protected] County has more than 3.6 mil- fice suggests consulting with a lion immigrants, a third of the Departure (DED) and employ- County has made a commit- licensed immigration lawyer, population, according to a re- ment authorization for ment to find the kids and help checking the consultant's ref- cent report from the University Liberians until June 3, 2022. them. LA County's Office of Im- erences, and obtaining a copy of Southern California. Biden's renewed commitment migrant Affairs is a trusted of the consultant's identifica- AAPI Legislative Maria E. Peñaloza, Program to protecting the DACA pro- messenger throughout our di- tion along with a written con- Day planned on Manager, LA City Office of Im- gram, which provides protec- verse immigrant communities, tract and payment receipts. Capitol Hill migrant Affairs briefed on tion against deportation and and they are standing by at 1- Don't give your original docu- India Post News Service DACA and TPS. The county work authorization to certain 800-593-8222 to help. Office of ments to anyone, share only wants the 30,000 TPS holders Dreamers, a group that in- Immigrant Affairs (OIA), which copies, don't sign any docu- WASHINGTON DC: The Ameri- and 80,000 DACA recipients in cludes many current college is within the County Depart- ments without understanding can Association of Physicians Of the LA area to know the latest students and young alumni. ment of Consumer and Busi- the contents, said Adriana. We India (AAPI) has scheduled hos- on this rule. On his first day in Rigo Reyes, Executive Direc- ness Affairs, to work with recommend you work with a li- ing its annual Legislative Day on office, President Biden signed tor, LA County Office of Immi- County Counsel, other County censed lawyer who specializes May 19 2021 and it is expected a memorandum for the Attor- grant Affairs said that separat- Departments, and non-profit in immigration law. Or, you can to be participated by a number ney General and the Secretary ing families is organizations get a referral by calling the Los of US lawmakers besides mem- of Homeland Security ordering one of the that serve im- Angeles County Bar Lawyer Re- bers of the organization. them to preserve and fortify harsh policies migrants and ferral at (213) 243-1525. If you The event starting at 9 am in the Deferred Action for Child- ever their families, believe you have been victim- the morning will include lunch hood Arrivals policy. This means adopted. to conduct ized by an immigration consult- on the Capitol in the Rayburn it remains in its original 2012 There are outreach and ant, call us at (800) 593-8222. Building and will end the after- form. It means USCIS is accept- hundreds of education for Daniel Sharp, Chief, LA noon offering those participat- ing a first time DACA applica- families that immigrants County Office of Immigrant Af- ing a chance to the Congress tion, DACA renewals and issues are still and their fami- fairs addressed the issue of leaders. In the evening there work authorization for two caught up in lies in a lin- public charge. U.S. Citizenship would be a reception and din- years and processing the ad- this long, guistically and and Immigration Services ner with several dignitaries at vanced parole. But a pending fraught chap- culturally ap- (USCIS) began applying the the Indian Embassy again pro- lawsuit in Texas federal court ter of U.S. im- propriate new public charge rule on Feb- viding an opportunity to continues to threaten the pro- migration manner about ruary 24, 2020. This has im- mingle with attending leasers. gram. If you are eligible for a policy. The wraparound pacted the immigrant commu- first time DACA application or Biden admin- County and nity at large. Details on page 18 renewal, please do so, said istration for- external ser- Cont’d on page 23 18 India Post Community Across America February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com AAPI Legislative Day planned on Capitol Hill

India Post News Service on May 19th." Dr. Shivangi WASHINGTON DC: The Ameri- added. can Association of Physicians Of Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, India (AAPI) has scheduled hos- president-elect of AAPI. Men- ing its annual Legislative Day on tioned "During the annual Leg- May 19 2021 and it is expected islative Conference, among to be participated by a number others, AAPI will discuss: In- of US lawmakers besides mem- creased Residency Slots, Immi- bers of the organization. gration Reform, Medicare and The event starting at 9 am in Medicaid Reimbursements, the morning will include lunch Tort Reform, Repeal of the Indi- on the Capitol in the Rayburn vidual Mandate, Lowering the Building and will end the after- Cost of Prescription Drugs, and, noon offering those participat- The South Asian Heart Health ing a chance to the Congress Awareness and Research Act of leaders. In the evening there 2017," she added." would be a reception and din- Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda ner with several dignitaries at opined that the annual Legisla- the Indian Embassy again pro- Shivangi, chair of AAPI Legisla- is the need of the day to renew also time to meet and interact tive Day is another way to im- viding an opportunity to tive Affairs Committee. our friendship with new lead- with Indian Ambassador to pact Healthcare policy and mingle with attending leasers. A tradition of more than two ership under President Joe USA Hon. Taranjit Singh Sandhu programs in a most effective AAPI is a non-political um- decades which has brought Biden and Vice President Ka- and the Embassy officials dur- way. For more information on brella organization with 90 local many important transforma- mala Harris and brief the lead- ing an evening dinner to be AAPI and its several noble ini- chapters, specialty societies and tions in National Healthcare ership on issues that are im- hosted by the Ambassador. I tiatives benefitting AAPI mem- alumni organizations. It seeks to policies that have helped Phy- portant to us." According to Dr. look forward to see many of bers and the larger society, further the interests of over sicians of Indian Origin. Now, it Shivangi, "The legislative day is our friends in Washington, DC please visit: www.aapiusa.org 80,000 physicians and 30,000 medical students and residents of Indian origin in the country. AAPI represents the inter- 'Meena's Special Diwali': A must read ests of over 80,000 physicians and 30,000 medical students and residents of Indian heri- book by Dipti Takru tage in the United States. "AAPI Legislative day is a flag- India Post News Service volves around a young girl, ing and captures the true youth to worldwide traditions ship annual event that is ea- SAN JOSE, CA: The Festival of Meena, born and raised in the spirit of Diwali in a way that than through books," noted gerly awaited to rekindle and United States and her perspec- keeps the reader going till the Dipti. renew our energy in bringing Lights, Diwali is celebrated by millions of Indians all over the tive on Diwali that leads to an very end. "Most families can 'Meena's Special Diwali' is up the issues that we need to world. 'Meena's Special Diwali' interesting turn of events! The find a personal connection at available on Amazon world- bring to the attention of na- chapter book is perfect for el- some point in the story. It is a wide as an ebook and paper- tional policy makers and lead- is a fiction book that intro- duces children to the Indian ementary and middle school great read for ers of the US Congress on Capi- festival of Diwali. The story re- students. The story is engag- school teachers tol Hill," said Dr. Sampat to their students to raise aware- ness about this important Indian festival," said Dipti Takru, au- thor of the book. Dipti is an edu- cator who has been teaching at Bay Area, Califor- nia schools for the past fifteen years. She has found there are few multicultural books available at schools and libraries that cel- back. www.amazon.com/ ebrate the diversity we find in Meenas-Special-Diwali-Dipti- today's classrooms. "What bet- Takru-ebook/dp/ ter way to introduce today's B08W4NMNPW February 19, 2021 Community Across America India Post 19 www.indiapost.com Bengaluru Christians donate Rs 1cr for Ayodhya's Ram Temple

ists contributed for the temple The community's represen- "We are also grateful to the construction. tative and businessman Ronald state government for legislat- "The BJP believes in pro- Colaso said Christians always ing a Bill to set up Saint Joseph people actions and 'sab ka respond to the cause of the University in the city," said saath, sab ka vikas' as stated by nation and social harmony. Colaso in the statement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In this context, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi As an inclusive party, the BJP community's leaders also TeerthKshetra Trust Secretary encapsulates even minorities thanked the BJP-ruled state General Champat Rai an- and its philosophy of gover- government for granting Rs nounced recently that the do- nance is followed at the central 200 crore for setting up Chris- nation drive, which began on and the state levels," said the tian Development Corporation January 15, would be go on till Deputy CM. in the city. February 27 across the country.

India Post News Service here last week. MUMBAI: Prominent mem- Bangalore: "The members of bers of the Christians commu- the Christian community from nity in this tech city all walks of life donated Rs 1 Bengaluru have collected Rs crore during the fund-raising 1 crore as donation for the drive," said Narayan. construction of Ram temple Christian entrepreneurs, at Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, businessmen, educationists, Karnataka Deputy Chief Min- chief executives, marketing ex- ister Ashwath Narayan said perts and social service activ- Shobhana Sanghvi passes away

eeply saddened the Chi- Together with her husband, Dcago based Indo Ameri- Manoj Sanghvi, Shobhana was can Center (IAC) shared news an early and active supporter of the passing of Shobhana of IAC who sustained her com- Sanghvi, a former IAC Board mitment to its mission and Member and long-time sup- secular ideals for more than porter. Shobhana passed away twenty-five years. Through unexpectedly and peacefully their individual philanthropy on Sunday, February 7, while and their efforts to secure riding in the car funding from with Sunil the ILA Founda- Sanghvi on her tion, Shobhana way to watch and Manoj had the Super Bowl a key role in with family purchasing the members. center's current Together building, which with Shobhana's enabled IAC to family and expand its friends, IAC's work on behalf board mem- of South Asian Shobhana Sanghvi bers, staff, and immigrants and the larger IAC community others by offering services to mourn her loss. advance their wellbeing and Shobhana is survived by her support to facilitate their par- three sons, Sunil, Parag, and ticipation in the larger society. Pulin, along with their spouses and her grandchildren. Cont’d on page 24 20 India Post Community Across America February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com Webinar meet on 'India's Farmer Reform Bills, Impact & National Unity GEETHA PATIL

BOSTON:World NRI Association dent WNA-USA invited all the speakers from 18 to 14 percent. poor. Governments' intention is to (WNA)-USA organized zoom webinar one by one with their brief introduction Nevertheless, farmers are the heart of change their socio-economic status by meeting on the current burning topic, and requested them to put forth their Indian agriculture policies and their wel- changing the whole paradigm. Now, we 'India's Farmer Reform Bills, Impact & thoughts and enlighten the audiences. fare is possible only when they are free need to continue our dialogue with our National Unity & Integrity' on Saturday, Suresh Prabhu, India's current Sherpa farmers who are protesting and work to the G7 & G20, 6-times Member of Par- together to solve their problem. liament who held 10 cabinet positions Neeraj Singh stated that farmers are including Minister of Railways, Com- demanding assurance of MSP not just on merce and industry, and Civil Aviation wheat and rice but on all other crops so explained to the audiences the Farm that majority framers are covered, and Bills. He shared his vision and thoughts the government passed these bills in about this. He said that these Farm Bills haste and not consulted farmers' repre- were enacted to ensure a complete sentative. They need to work together transformation of the agriculture sector and make some modifications in the and empower farmers by providing bills. them free and competitive market out- Sukhi Chahal said that Sikh farmers lets even though the agriculture sector who are protesting are not anti-Indians. contribution to GDP has come down Suresh Prabhu Abhishek Singh

13th February 2021 morning. Hundreds sell their produce for the best price not of interested participants attending it for the minimum price support option or to have a first hand understanding of through one outlet called Agriculture the Farm Bills and its benefits to the Product Market Committee (APMC). New farmers in the short and long runs. laws are meant to free them from this Maa Rajyalaxmi, the founder of WNA- one outlet. They are at liberty to contact USA welcomed all the speakers and au- directly the buyers and sell their pro- diences to the program and explained duce by passing the APMC. Farmers can briefly why PM Modi has taken an initia- also continue their selling with the exist- tion to reform the Farm Bills and help ing Minimum Support Price (MSP) op- them to become self-reliant in the long portunity. These bills are very important run. She said that WNA-Internal and WNA-USA are here to investigate the Maa Rajyalaxmi connection of issue to the universe and take care of its harmonization in every There are some misconceptions be- Ajay Shah possible way. Abhishek Singh, the presi- tween the farmers and the government as these bills are passed in hasteand no- tions like there is lack of statutory sup- port in the bills for the MSP, big compa- nies are going to take awaytheir lands, and low bargaining power of the farm- ers are some of the reasons that led to the opposition to the bills. Cont’d on page 22 Sukhi Chahal

steps in the right direction. When our famers get best market price and domi- nate their decision of what they wish to grow, when to sell, and at what price then Indian economy can go beyond the 5-trillion mark. One important thing to note here is that there is no provision in the Bills for any company to come in and take away farmers' lands. Prabhualsomentioned that the younger generation farmers do not want to continue agriculture as they are not Robert Lancia getting good income and remaining February 19, 2021 Community Across America India Post 21 www.indiapost.com COVID Death Rates Spotlight - Health Equity Issues

VIDYA SETHURAMAN as we saw in the prior three waves, it groups at highest risk from the dis- response to SARS. But SARS kind of India Post News Service was Black and Latinos who were dy- ease. COVID-19 cases among AI/AN went away," he said. We weren't pre- n California, 55 percent of COVID ing," he said. were 3.5 times that of non-Hispanic pared for COVID 19. Carlisle said vac- deaths are LatinX people, according In Louisiana, Blacks got 13% of the whites, said Virginia. Everyone has cine rollout in California, like in other Ito data recently released by the De- vaccines and 34% of the infections, been impacted. Some families have states, is increasing in a linear fashion. partment of Public Health. In New York, Blacks in Mississippi got 17% of the been decimated. We're more at risk But it should be exponential. He said South Asians have the highest rates of vaccines and 38% of the state's infec- because we are Native people living that's a failure of public health policy. positivity and hospitalization among tions. "These are disproportionate in the United States, where we have Adam Carbullido, Director of Policy Asians, second only to Hispanics for numbers and these are the cases been experiencing this kind of op- & Advocacy, Association of Asian Pa- positivity and Blacks for hospitaliza- pretty much in every state that is re- pression. Indian Country is leading in cific Community Health Organizations tion. Chinese patients had the highest porting the numbers," he said. Califor- COVID-19 vaccine distribution due to gave a closer look at the impact of the mortality rate of all groups and were nia data are not reported. Govern- our tribes exercising their sover- pandemic on Asians, Native Hawaiians, nearly 1.5 times more likely to die ments must find ways to build trust, eignty and the community-based ap- and Pacific Islanders. than Whites. Speakers discussed the Like most of the communities, ours gaps in health equity amid the pan- "Those numbers eventually became true," he said. is hugely impacted by the pandemic. demic in EMS briefing on Feb 12. Pacific Islanders already suffer dispro- Dr. Daniel Turner-Lloveras, founding "What we have right now is the inequitable distribution of the portionately on many fronts from member of Latino Coalition Against vaccine," said Dr. Daniel. There are only 20 states in the US, chronic illnesses like diabetes and COVID-19 said many doctors pre- heart disease. Important factors af- dicted the higher infection rates and which releases the data relating to racial background of fecting health outcomes, including in- the higher rates at which Latinos and those receiving COVID vaccine surance coverage, language and cul- Blacks were being hospitalized from tural barriers to medical care, and risk COVID-19 and also dying. of certain health conditions, vary "Those numbers eventually be- he said, especially in communities of proaches we have used to prepare widely among Asian Americans, Na- came true," he said. "What we have color that are most vulnerable to the and respond, added Virginia. tive Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. right now is the inequitable distribu- virus. Those of us who are physicians or It's vital that policymakers have a tion of the vaccine," said Dr. Daniel. Virginia Hendrick is the Executive public health people were terrified clearer understanding of the racial There are only 20 states in the US, Director of the California Consortium because what we saw was a perfect health disparities to effectively ad- which releases the data relating to for?Urban Indian Health and a mem- storm situation," Dr. Carlisle, President dress the coronavirus pandemic and racial background of those receiving ber of the Yurok Tribe. We are seeing and Chief Executive Officer of Charles the continuing recession. Investing in COVID vaccine. COVID-19 is affecting American Indi- R. Drew University of Medicine and our public economic infrastructure This needs to be corrected imme- ans and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) - one Science said. Some pretty aggressive will help these and other communities diately. He said the first step in fixing of the racial and ethnic minority public health measures were taken in of color and our nation at large. the problem is to have all states re- port the racial data on their vaccine recipients. We can make appropriate action and serve better, added Dr Daniel. Minorities should be at the table in discussions about opening up the economy because they are front line workers. "No one can guarantee that another wave is not coming and

NEWS on your desktop www.indiapost.com 22 India Post Community Across America February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com White House& Congress Members condemn desecration of Mahatma Statue

India Post news Service need for more people to study of the House Judiciary Sub- In the late hours of Wednes- California Advocacy Director, WASHINGTON DC: The White Gandhi's teachings, not unilat- committee on Immigration day, January 27, 2021 the condemning the attack said House and six members of erally erase him from the pub- and Citizenship, stated "As we bronze Gandhi Statue of Peace that this cowardly desecration Congresshave condemned the lic discourse. This was a shame- continue to debate and settle in Davis, CA was sawed off at and call upon the Department desecration and toppling of a ful act." our differences, we must con- the ankles, effectively toppling of Homeland Security and FBI Mahatma Gandhi Statue of Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D- tinue to embody the principles the statue, and the head of to investigate this hate crime, Peace in Davis, CA last month IL), who is also Indian and of Gandhi, who not only Gandhi was sawed in half. as it was likely done with the cementing a demand from a Hindu American, unequivocally brought independence to his This wasn't the first time a intention of intimidating the vast number of Indian Ameri- stated: "I condemn this mali- own people, but inspired gen- statue of Gandhi was des- Indian American community cans to investigate the same as cious act in the strongest This violent act was praised Hate Crime terms, and I call upon the FBI to Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), who is also on Twitter by Sikh separatist The India Caucus Co-Chair investigate it as a possible hate Indian and Hindu American, unequivocally stated: groups in California, who Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) said crime intended to intimidate shared photos of the de- "Gandhi's legacy is one of Indian-Americans, among oth- "I condemn this malicious act in the strongest stroyed statue, and others who peace and the promotion of ers. The desecration of a statue terms, and I call upon the FBI to investigate it as a stated "Today is a good day." In non-violence." The White of Gandhi, who championed possible hate crime intended to intimidate December 2020, Sikh vandals House Press Secretary Jennifer peace and non-violence and desecrated a Mahatma Gandhi Psaki when asked about the who continues to influence Indian-Americans, among others statue in Washington, DC in President's response stated countless nonviolent struggles front of the Indian Embassy that "We certainly would have for justice including in erations of civil rights activists, ecrated in the US. The Gandhi where Khalistani (Sikh separat- concern about the desecration America, serves as a sad re- including the Reverend Martin statue in Davis, CA was first ist) flags were displayed. of monuments of Gandhi. minder of how important his Luther King, Jr. Violence and desecrated in June, 2020, while The desecration of the "Such behavior has no place teachings remain." vandalism are never the an- a similar statue of Gandhi in Gandhi statue in Davis, CA on in America," stated Caucus Co- A statement from the Chair- swer and I call on all my col- Washington, DC, in front of the January 27 also occurred just Chair and Ranking Member of man of the House Foreign Af- leagues to join me in condemn- Indian Embassy, was vandal- three days prior to the date the House Foreign Affairs Sub- fairs Subcommittee on Asia ing the desecration of the ized twice last year, too. that Gandhi was assassinated, committee on Asia, the Pacific Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA), who is Gandhi Statue of Peace." Hindu American Foundation January 30, 1948. and Non-Proliferation Rep. Indian American, reads: "Such behavior has no place in America," stated Caucus Co-Chair and Ranking Member of the House Webinar meet on 'India's Farmer Reform Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and Bills, Impact & National Unity Non-Proliferation Rep. Steve Chabot (R-OH) Cont’d from page 20 introduce horticulture and farmers. dairy in Punjab and shift rice Ajay Shah and Robert "Peaceful and nonviolent pro- Steve Chabot (R-OH). MSP is a major concern, es- growing to UP or Bengal. Lancia gave the audiences test, which was championed India Caucus Vice-Chair Rep. pecially for farmers from He emphasized that wither NRI's and America's perspec- by civil rights leaders at home Ro Khanna (D-CA), who is Indian Punjab and Haryana, where NRIs or any outside countries tive of the Farm Bills. Ajay Ji and abroad, including Dr. Mar- and Hindu American, strongly 65% of wheat (2019) is pro- should not interfere with this also said that these bills are tin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi, condemned the attack, saying cured at MSP by the Food Cor- issue. It is India's internal mat- very beneficial to the farmers is a hallmark of American de- that "Nonviolent, respectful poration of India and some ter and he has lot of trust in PM and wants the market to de- mocracy." protest was the essence of state agencies. And at the cide the prices of agricultural In a statement entered into Gandhi's life mission. To see the same time, various opposition commodities. He further said the US Congressional Record, desecration of this magnificent parties alleged that the bills that the minimum support Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Chair statue only underscores the are anti-farmer and corporate- pricepolicy will weaken the friendly but that is not true. farmers, instead of empower- He further said that he sup- ing them. Mr. Lancia also ex- ports farmers' protest but pressed his concern for the never ever supports the inci- American farmers struggle as dent of 26th January. When the well and said that farm loan one section of Sikh protestors delinquencies are rising, as who wanted to highjack the they are not getting better farmers' protest and planned Neeraj Singh price for their produce. We to host Nishan Saheb on the need to look into India's Red Fort has led all other Sikhs Modi and his government in FarmBills to help them. like me down. He condemned resolving these issues amica- Maa Rajyalaxmi concluded that act but commended the bly. He requested Suresh the session by saying that our act of Delhi Police.MSP is not Prabhu ji to find out the solu- inner force connects us to the good for Punjab formers in the tions to the issue by opening universe. Let us work together long run. Government need to up re-dialogues with real in harmony and live in peace. February 19, 2021 Community Across America India Post 23 www.indiapost.com The Los Angeles County COVID-19 Report

VIDYA SETHURAMAN tions and deaths. The variants are con- ues administering shots to the currently appointment details are confidential and India Post News Service cerning and we can't let our guard down eligible populations -- health care work- will not be shared with any other depart- he Los Angeles County Public and this might be a worrisome sign, said ers, residents and staff of nursing and ment. Even after taking both the shots, Health Department addressed Dr Eloisa. long-term care facilities and residents 65 we still have to mask up, practice social T the County's response to the As of Tuesday Feb 9, 1.2 Million doses and over, said Dr Elosia. Vaccines are safe, distancing and wash your hands fre- COVID-19 pandemic at the EMS briefing are administered in LA County. Out of effective and free of cost and they pro- quently until most of the population is on Feb 11. Dr. Eloisa Gonzalez, MD, Los which 900,000 were of first dose and tect you and your family. People with- vaccinated. Angeles County Department of Public 250,000 of the second dose. To help out health insurance can get COVID-19 Doctors say many people will develop Health, Director, Integrative Medicine, make the vaccine more accessible, the vaccines at no cost. There are no out-of- some symptoms after receiving a shot, The Wellness Center at LAC+USC Historic county is organizing a mobile team that pocket payments. There isn't a way to especially the second dose. They can in- General Hospital | Spokesperson, COVID- will be able to vaccinate people 65 and jump the line. Please watch out for the clude fatigue, chills, a low-grade fever 19 Vaccine Spanish Media addressed the and soreness at the vaccination site. media on the county's response and fu- Deaths and cases have been trending downward These are normal and your body is build- ture plan. in recent weeks as the county recovers from the winter surge ing immunity, added Dr.Eloisa. Deaths and cases have been trending The County is operating five large- downward in recent weeks as the in cases, as have hospitalizations. According to state figures, scale vaccination sites and two walk up county recovers from the winter surge there were 3,489 people hospitalized due to COVID in sites but they are just part of a much in cases, as have hospitalizations. Accord- Los Angeles County as of 11 February larger network of more than 300 loca- ing to state figures, there were 3,489 tions in Los Angeles County. We under- people hospitalized due to COVID in Los stand and share the frustration of our Angeles County as of 11 February. Los older who are living in housing develop- vaccine related scams, added Dr Elosia. residents. We are working nonstop with Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said while ments or senior centers in the county's Gonzalez also assured immigrants within our federal and state partners to in- the cases are steadily declining, the hardest hit communities. We have com- L.A. County that they did not need to fear crease the vaccine supply available here number of deaths is "something we can munity workers who will go block by being deported or having their immigra- in Los Angeles County. never normalize." block and give the information on how tion status challenged if they go in to get We are committed to vaccinating ev- to get a vaccine, and to dispel any myths tested or receive the vaccine. All their Cont’d on page 24 ery resident who wants to be protected and misinformation. California will turn from this deadly virus, said Dr.Eloisa. Hos- over its coronavirus vaccine distribution pitalization numbers in Los Angeles to the health insurance company Blue County continue to trend downward. Shield in an effort to speed up, said Dr. Now is the time to take more precaution Elosia. and mask up. Cases are dropping at a The expansion of the vaccine eligibil- bigger rate compared to hospitaliza- ity will occur even as the county contin- NEW YEAR, NEW POLICIES:

Cont’d from page 17 charge. This means immigrants can ac- cess all COVID-related health services President Biden signed an executive without fear that their immigration sta- order directing the Justice, State, and tus may be impacted. There is no public Homeland Security departments to "re- charge test when a legal permanent view all agency actions related to resident applies for citizenship or re- implementation of the public charge news a green card. State and locally ground of inadmissibility" and consult funded health care programs such as with other departments, including MyHealth L.A. are not included in the Health and Human Services, when con- public charge test. Nutritional pro- sidering the rule. This is going to take grams like WIC, school lunches, food some time, we are not certain on the pantries and food banks, shelters, time frame. It cannot be removed by an childcare assistance, and many other executive order; it has to go through programs are not considered public the process and will take time. Many charges, said Daniel Sharp. Medical immigrants are not subject to the pub- sheltering, emergency food resources, lic charge test. The test does not apply short-term emergency aids, one time to refugees, asylees, special immigrant cash assistance does not attract public juveniles, and persons applying for im- charge. migration status as survivors of traffick- If you're in the City of Los Angeles ing, domestic violence and other seri- and would like to sign up to receive ous crimes. Mayor Eric Garcetti's Office of Immi- USCIS has clarified that it will not con- grant Affairs bi-monthly newsletter, sider treatment, vaccination or testing please visit https:// for COVID-19 in any future public stepforward.lacity.org/newsletter. 24 India Post Community Across America February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com Bar Associations unite to demand Illinois University to address Race issues SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: Several Chicago Marshall Law School (UIC- administered aCivil Proce- other managers expressed demanding the identity and area Bar Associations have JMLS) that has caused stu- dure final exam, which in- their anger at Plaintiff, call- location of any person with joined together to demand dents of color to feel mis- cluded the following: ing her a 'n____' and 'b____' any information related to that the University of Illinois treated based on race and ig- Employer's lawyer traveled (profane expressions for Afri- the termination of Plaintiff's Board of Trustees act swiftly nored by the UIC-JMLS ad- to meet the manager, who can Americans and women) employment at Employer or to address and eradicate an ministration. stated that she quit her job and vowed to get rid of her. potential discrimination environmental the University On December 2, 2020, UIC- at Employer after she at- Later, Plaintiff's lawyer against Plaintiff by Employer of Illinois at Chicago John JMLSProfessor Jason Kilborn tended a meeting in which served . . . an interrogatory or any agent of Employer. Can Employer identify the former manager but prop- erly withhold her location, as Indian-origin UK minister in The Los Angeles County this is the product of a signifi- cant amount of work and ex- India for climate talks COVID-19 Report pense by Employer's attor- ney? NEW DELHI: Alok Sharma, an meet senior Indian Ministers, puter access can call 833- Cont’d from page 23 Seeing "n____" and Indian-origin Minister in the UK as well as leaders from busi- 540-0473 between 8:00 am "b____"on the Civil Proce- Prime Minister Boris Johnson's ness and civil society, to dis- The main way to schedule and 8:30 pm 7 days a week dure exam shocked students Cabinet, arrived here for two cuss strengthening the UK-In- COVID-19 vaccination ap- for assistance with appoint- and caused them distress days of climate discussions dia climate partnership and pointments is by logging on ments. The operators speak a and anxiety while taking the with Indian leaders. preparing for a successful to VaccinateLACounty.com or variety of languages and can exam. The use of "n____" and Sharma, the COP26 Presi- COP26 summit later this year. VaccinateLosAngeles.com to help people who do not "b____", euphemisms for vile dent-Designate to lead the IANS check appointment availabil- speak English as their main For detailed story visit expressions used to deni- crucial UN climate talks, will ity. Residents without com- language. www.indiapost.com grate Black people and women, on this Civil Proce- dure exam was highlyoffensive.

Shobhana Sanghvi passes away

Cont’d from page 19

In addition to herself serv- ing as a valued member of the IAC board of directors, Shobhana encouraged her family and other community members to get involved. She was instrumental in enlisting McKinsey and Company to un- dertake a pro bono strategic planning process that will continue to shape IAC's future initiatives. Funeral services will be pri- vate. The family proposesholding a Zoom get- together in the next few days, with an in-person memorial to take place this fall. For condo- lences and details about these events, contact Sunil Sanghvi Sunil_Sanghvi@ external.mckinsey.com. 24 India Post Community Across America February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com Bar Associations unite to demand Illinois University to address Race issues SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: Several Chicago Board of Trustees act swiftly Marshall Law School (UIC- nored by the UIC-JMLS ad- the termination of Plaintiff's area Bar Associations have to address and eradicate an JMLS) that has caused stu- ministration. employment at Employer or joined together to demand environmental the University dents of color to feel mis- On December 2, 2020, UIC- potential discrimination that the University of Illinois of Illinois at Chicago John treated based on race and ig- JMLSProfessor Jason Kilborn against Plaintiff by Employer administered aCivil Proce- or any agent of Employer. dure final exam, which in- Can Employer identify the cluded the following: former manager but properly Indian-origin UK minister in Employer's lawyer traveled withhold her location, as this to meet the manager, who is the product of a significant stated that she quit her job at amount of work and expense Employer after she attended by Employer's attorney? India for climate talks a meeting in which other Seeing "n____" and managers expressed their "b____"on the Civil Proce- NEW DELHI: Alok Sharma, an ing movement of corporate cli- real progress on reducing anger at Plaintiff, calling her a dure exam shocked students Indian-origin Minister in the UK mate action throughout their emissions and building global 'n____' and 'b____' (profane and caused them distress and Prime Minister Boris Johnson's sector and supply chain. commitments. expressions for African anxiety while taking the Cabinet, arrived here for two Sharma will also meet with "The UK and India are al- Americans and women) and exam. The use of "n____" and days of climate discussions civil society, including experts ready a joint force for good vowed to get rid of her. "b____", euphemisms for vile with Indian leaders. and young thinkers, to discuss against climate change, and Later, Plaintiff's lawyer expressions used to deni- Sharma, the COP26 Presi- challenges and possible solu- we look forward to strength- served . . . an interrogatory grate Black people and dent-Designate to lead the tions to climate change, and to ening this partnership in the demanding the identity and women, on this Civil Proce- crucial UN climate talks, will hear how they are trying to run up to COP26 and beyond." location of any person with dure exam was meet senior Indian Ministers, mobilise younger generations High Commissioner to India, any information related to highlyoffensive. as well as leaders from busi- in support of climate action. Alex Ellis CMG said: "Alok ness and civil society, to dis- After a year of virtual meet- Sharma's visit is the latest step cuss strengthening the UK-In- ings, the in-person visit signals in protecting our planet by dia climate partnership and preparing for a successful The Los Angeles County COP26 summit later this year. In his first visit to Asia as COVID-19 Report COP (Conference of the Par- ties) President, Sharma is ex- Cont’d from page 23 puter access can call 833- pected to welcome India's sig- 540-0473 between 8:00 am nificant progress on climate The main way to schedule and 8:30 pm 7 days a week action and clean energy transi- COVID-19 vaccination ap- for assistance with appoint- tion, an official statement by pointments is by logging on ments. The operators speak a New Delhi-based British High to VaccinateLACounty.com or variety of languages and can Commission said. VaccinateLosAngeles.com to help people who do not He will highlight Prime Min- check appointment availabil- speak English as their main ister Narendra Modi's global ity. Residents without com- language. leadership in setting up the In- ternational Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), Shobhana Sanghvi the latter of which the UK is Alok Sharma proud to co-chair. passes away India's expertise is expected a step-change in momentum making COP26 a success and to be of great value to global to COP26 or UN climate will further develop the UK-In- Cont’d from page 19 continue to shape IAC's future discussions on a clean energy change conference prepara- dia climate partnership on initiatives. transition as part of COP tions, and reinforces Sharma's clean and resilient develop- In addition to herself serv- Funeral services will be pri- preparations, it said. ambition to run an inclusive ment. ing as a valued member of the vate. The family In his meetings with busi- negotiating process that incor- "Hearing from the Indian gov- IAC board of directors, proposesholding a Zoom get- ness, Sharma will highlight the porates the views of all coun- ernment first hand, as well as Shobhana encouraged her together in the next few days, huge opportunities in the low tries. civil society and business will be family and other community with an in-person memorial to carbon economy, celebrate ex- Sharma said: "When it essential in informing the ap- members to get involved. She take place this fall. For condo- isting commitments to comes to climate action, India proach of the UK Presidency as was instrumental in enlisting lences and details about these achieve net zero emissions and is a key partner and a global we work towards a comprehen- McKinsey and Company to un- events, contact Sunil Sanghvi encourage influential busi- leader. Together we can make sive, ambitious and balanced dertake a pro bono strategic Sunil_Sanghvi@ nesses to promote the grow- change happen -- delivering outcome at COP26." IANS planning process that will external.mckinsey.com. Health Line

More Indians opting for healthy food in 2021

NEW DELHI: After binging a lot on junk food during the 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 lockdown, Indians are moving makes itself felt only when there is something wrong with it. You know that you have a head only when it aches. Sri Atmananda (1883 - 1959) towards healthier food options as a new survey showed that 26 India Post www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021 people are ordering healthier, nutritious food in 2021. According to Swiggy's Health Hub survey based on Global Covid-19 cases top lakhs of orders, healthy food orders saw a jump of 20 per cent in January as compared to December, clearly indicating a 107.7 MN: Johns Hopkins resolve to start the year on a healthy note. WASHINGTON: The total While most binged-on number of global coronavirus biryani and pizzas on New cases has topped 107.7 million, Year's Eve, the food delivery while the deaths have surged app witnessed a rise in healthy to more than 2.36 million, ac- meals and even healthy des- cording to the Johns Hopkins serts being ordered on the first University. day of the year. In its latest update on 12 Dishes such as millet khichdi, February, the University's Cen- multi-grain masala dosa, Mexi- ter for Systems Science and can burrito bowl, caesar salad, Engineering (CSSE) revealed corn sandwich, along with Bel- that the current global gian bites and sugar-free ice caseload and death toll stood cream made for the maximum at 107,749,090 and 2,366,158, orders, the food delivery app respectively. said in a statement. The US is the worst hit coun- India's IT hub Bengaluru was try with the world's highest crowned as the city with the number of cases and deaths at maximum orders for healthy 27,389,196 and 475,221, re- food in the country. spectively, according to the A look at city-wise prefer- CSSE. (2,564,427), Germany CSSE figures showed. France (80,951), Russia ences for healthy meals shows India comes in second place (2,321,225), Colombia (2,179,641), Brazil currently accounts for (77,415), Spain (64,217), Ger- that Hyderabad ordered the in terms of cases at 10,871,294. Argentina (2,008,345), Mexico the second highest number of many (63,858), Iran (58,751), most barbeque grilled salads, The other countries with (1,957,889), Poland (1,570,658), Covid-19 fatalities at 236,201, Colombia (56,983), Argentina protein guacamole bowls and more than a million confirmed Iran (1,496,455), South Africa followed by Mexico (169,760) (49,874), South Africa (47,382), healthy breakfasts. coronavirus cases are Brazil (1,484,900), Ukraine on the third place and India Peru (42,859), Poland (40,177), Mumbaikars opted for (9,713,909), the UK (4,010,362), (1,302,811), Peru (1,203,502), (155,360) on the fourth. Indonesia (32,381), Turkey burrito bowls, caesar salads, Russia (3,983,031), France Indonesia (1,191,990), Czech Meanwhile, the nations with (27,187), Ukraine (25,330), Bel- homestyle north Indian (3,465,951), Spain (3,041,454), Republic (1,064,952) and the a death toll above 20,000 are gium (21,512) and Canada khichdis and combos. IANS Italy (2,683,403), Turkey Netherlands (1,031,454), the the UK (115,748), Italy (92,729), (21,089). IANS India reported year's 2nd lowest Covid figures NEW DELHI: Continuing its has reached 1,55,447, health ond instance of recording death toll has been below the samples have been tested streak of low numbers of officials said. cases less than 10,000 in 2021 200-mark for more than a for Covid-19 up to February single-day coronavirus cases, The country recorded 9,110 so far. The daily Covid-19 month now. 11. Of these, 7,65,944 India reported 9,309 new in- infections, lower figures three The Covid cases active at samples were tested on that fections and 87 deaths in the days ago on February 9 while The daily Covid-19 present are 1,35,926 after day, said the Indian Council last 24 hours, second-lowest it reported 78 deaths on that death toll has 15,858 patients were dis- of Medical Research (ICMR). this year so far, as per the day. Earlier, the lowest cases of been below the charged in a day. 1,05,89,230 More than 7.5 million data shared by Union Minis- the year were recorded on persons have been dis- (75,05,010) doses of corona try of Health and Family Wel- January 19, when 10,064 new 200-mark for more charged so far. vaccine doses have been fare (MoH&FW) on 12 Febru- infections were reported. than a month now. The recovery rate has in- administered in India since ary morning. For over two weeks, the The active cases at creased to 97.32 per cent, the drive began on January The overall tally of Covid country has recorded less while the fatality rate is down 16 after approval for cases has mounted to than 15,000 new infections present are 1,35,926 to 1.43 per cent. 'Covishield' and 'Covaxin'. 1,08,80,603 while the toll daily. Meanwhile, it's the sec- A total of 20,47,89,784 IANS February 19, 2021 Wellness Post India Post 27 www.indiapost.com

Early behavioral problems Green leafy veggies may predict adolescent mental health difficulties CAMBRIDGE: A substantial pro- portion of adolescent mental health up thinking skills later and behavioral difficulties can be predicted years before they arise, a LONDON: People who eat a Mediter- The participants completed tests of look for associations between a new study indicates. ranean-style diet -- particularly one rich problem solving, thinking speed, person's diet and their thinking skills The research, by academics at the in green leafy vegetables and low in memory and word knowledge, as well and brain health in later life. University of Cambridge and Royal meat -- are more likely to stay mentally as a questionnaire about their eating The findings show that, in general, Holloway, University of London, sharp in later life, a study shows. habits during the previous year. people who most closely adhered to a shows that children who experience The study indicated that closely ad- Mediterranean diet had the highest certain behavioral challenges, like hering to a Mediterranean diet was cognitive function scores, even hyperactivity and anxiety, are more associated with higher scores in a when accounting for childhood IQ, likely to go on to develop poor men- range of memory and thinking smoking, physical activity and tal health in adolescence, such as tests among adults in their late health factors. The differences emotional difficulties. It also finds 70s. were small but statistically sig- that children with behavioral diffi- "Eating more green leafy nificant. culties are more likely to experience vegetables and cutting down The individual components problems as adolescents if they on red meat might be two key of the diet that appeared to be come from less affluent, or disadvan- food elements that contribute to most strongly associated with taged backgrounds. the benefits of the Mediterranean- better thinking skills were green Levels of adolescent behavioral style diet," said researcher Janie Corley leafy vegetables and a lower red meat and mental health difficulties are ris- from the University of Edinburgh. intake. ing. As healthcare systems world- For the study, published in the jour- More than 350 of the group also un- "In our sample, the positive relation- wide struggle to cope with increas- nal Experimental Gerentology, the re- derwent a magnetic resonance imaging ship between a Mediterranean diet ing demand, there is an urgent need searchers tested the thinking skills of (MRI) brain scan to gain insights into and thinking skills is not accounted for to predict which adolescents are more than 500 people aged 79 and their brain structure. by having a healthier brain structure, most likely to need additional sup- without dementia. The team used statistical models to as one might expect," said Corley. IANS port as early as possible. ANI Realty Tidbits Century Real Estate sells over 100 plots in 10 days at Century Greens

Redevelopment of BENGALURU: Century Real Estate, a leading devel- Delhi railway station Real Estate oper and one of the largest landowners in South In- to cost Rs 5,000cr dia, today announced the successful pre-launch of Phase II of Century Greens, a premium plotted de- NEW DELHI: The Centre said velopment in Bengaluru. While the Phase 1 of the that redevelopment of New project was sold out in just three months of its Delhi railway station has been launch, Phase II witnessed an even greater reception taken up on Public Private with over 65 per cent of the inventory being sold Partnership (PPP) mode at an 28 India Post www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021 out in the first ten days. ANI/BusinessWire India estimated cost Rs 5,000 crore. In written reply in the Lok Sabha, Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal said that the fa- Key facts about the Transfer of cilities proposed include con- gestion-free non-conflicting entry/exits to the station pre- Property Act, 1882 mises, segregation of arrival/ departure of passengers, ad- SUNITA MISHRA equate concourse area with- nder the Indian legal out overcrowding, integration system, properties are of both sides of the city, and Udivided into two cat- integration with other modes egories - movable and immov- of transport systems. able. The Transfer of Property "Well illuminated circulating Act (ToPA), 1882, which came area and sufficient provision into force on July 1, 1882, deals for drop off, pick up and park- with the aspects of transfer of properties between living be- ing has been proposed. Re- ings. One of the oldest laws in quest for Qualification (RFQ) the Indian legal system, the has been opened on February ToPA is an extension of the law 2," he said. of contracts and runs parallel The Railway Minister further to the succession laws. For stated that station redevelop- those planning to transfer their ment is planned by leveraging immovable property, knowing real estate potential of spare the key aspects of this Act is land and air space in and important. around stations, inviting pri- Scope of the Transfer of vate participation. Property Act "For this, the Railways con- Ways in which property vency, or sale through the ex- 'Every person competent to In terms of immovable ducts techno-economic feasi- transfer can take place ecution of a decree. The Act is contract and entitled to trans- property, one cannot transfer bility studies of stations across A transfer of property can also not applicable on the dis- ferable property, or authorized a property that one expects to the country. Based on the out- be effectuated by act of two or posal of properties through to dispose of transferable inherit in future. Example: Ram come of these feasibility stud- more parties or an act by the wills and does not deal with property not his own, is com- expects that his maternal ies, stations are taken up for operation of the law. cases of succession of prop- petent to transfer such prop- uncle, who had no children of redevelopment in phases," The Transfer of Property Act erty. erty, either wholly or in part his own, would bequeath his is applicable primarily on property to him and he trans- Goyal said. The Transfer of Property Act is applicable Goyal said that Ahmedabad, transfer of immovable prop- fers his right in the property Gandhinagar, New Bhuj, erty from one living being (in- primarily on transfer of immovable property to his son, the transaction Sabarmati, Surat and Udhna ter-vivos) to another. Also, the from one living being (inter-vivos) to another. would be held invalid. Act is applicable on property A lessor can also not trans- railway stations have been transfer by individuals, as well Also, the Act is applicable on property transfer fer his right to re-entry into a identified for redevelopment as by companies. However, the by individuals, as well as by companies leased property, under the in Gujarat. Transfer of Property Act is ap- Transfer of Property Act. Ex- "Works are at an advanced plicable to acts of parties and Types of property transfer and either absolutely or condi- ample: Ram leases his plot to stage of completion at not on transfers applicable by under the Transfer of Property tionally, in the circumstances, Mohan and puts in a clause in Gandhinagar. RFQ has been fi- the law. Act to the extent and in the man- the lease agreement that he nalized for Sabarmati station. Key facts about the Transfer The Transfer of Property Act ner, allowed and prescribed by would have the right to re-en- RFQ for Surat and Udhna sta- of Property Act, 1882 talks about six types of prop- any law for the time being in ter, if the rent is not paid for tions have been submitted to What does 'transfer' of prop- erty transfers: force,' the section reads. over three months, then, he the Public Private Partnership erty signify? Sale/Lease/Mortgage/ Under the Indian Contract alone will have the right to do Appraisal Committee (PPPAC), The term transfer includes Exchange/Gift/Actionable Act, 1872, a person must be at so. He cannot pass on his right Ministry of Finance, for ap- transfer through sale, mort- claim least 18 years of age and have to re-enter to, say, Ganesh, his praisal. Detailed Project Report gage, lease, actionable claim, Who can transfer property? a sound mind, to be eligible to associate. www.housing.com for Ahmedabad and New Bhuj gift or exchange. The Act does Section 7 of the Act lays enter into a contract. is at various stages of prepara- not cover transfers by the op- down the rules, vis-à-vis Properties that cannot be tion," said the Railway Minister. eration of law, in the form of people who are legally eligible transferred under the Transfer For detailed story visit IANS inheritance, forfeiture, insol- to transfer their property. of Property Act www.indiapost.com February 19, 2021 Real Estate Post India Post 29 www.indiapost.com Housing 2021. Forging Ahead. DDA approves draft 'Green Development Area' policy AMIT INAMDAR Realtor, Forbes Real Estate Council Member for sustainable development

hat is the next stop for the housing market ing affordability at 21%. Quality of schools and work NEW DELHI: The DDA has recently approved a in 2021? How about your next HOME for an commute are the reasons well under the 6% mark. So draft policy that provides a comprehensive frame- Wanswer? a homebuyer tired of bidding over $3M work for defining minimum land area required for Numerous homebuyers, whether first time or re- in the Silicon Valley, can easily bid up the suburban green development and ensuring seamless de- peat buyers, are in search for more space, both indoors home and have a better quality of life under $2M. velopment of infrastructure with sustainability, and outdoors. Inventory levels are at an all time low Additionally, many homebuyers focus too much on officials said. and demand is surging every day. I wrote an article on the price of the home and get scared. What a savvy, The call was taken during a meeting of the high- the tri-valley area being the next hot spot in June qualified-home buyer does is, they check out the est decision-making body of the Delhi Development 2020, and as of January 2021, the median price of monthly payments and bids comfortably based on Authority (DDA), chaired by Delhi Lt Governor Anil homes in Pleasanton (13%), Dublin (23%), Livermore that. With today's interest rates of 3% or below for ev- Baijal, who is also chairman of the urban body. (16%), and San Ramon (12%) areas have jumped "The Authority approved the draft 'Green Devel- up by the numbers shown in the parenthesis. opment Area' or 'GDA policy' to provide an inte- The post pandemic, K shaped recovery, where grated framework for development of lands falling professionals have climbed the ladder to recov- in the designated green belt and Low Density Resi- ery, is the central story of the Bay Area housing dential Area (LDRA) as per the Master Plan of Delhi markets. This is further propelled by the new 2021. The same shall be processed under Section companies going public, vested RSUs of the tech 11 A of DD Act," the DDA said in a statement. companies, and substantial gains made in the The policy will now be put in the public domain stock market. for inviting objections or suggestions, officials The other side of the story of non-professional said. jobs has put fears of foreclosures in the minds of The objection and suggestions shall be placed many. However, rising home equity, government before the Board of Enquiry and Hearing (BOEH). being on-board with programs like forbearance, As per the recommendations of BOEH, the same and a lot of existing home equity may make these shall be placed before the Authority for a final homes sell on the open market if and when they approval before being forwarded to the Ministry do, thereby making money for the homeowners. Tech- ery $100,000 in mortgage costs, you approximate of Housing and Urban Affairs for notification, they nological advances in real estate disclosure manage- $450 in monthly payments. So losing a home for said. ment and distribution have made it easy to forecast a $25,000 really means you lost it for $112 per month. "The policy will encourage 'green develop- demand for a given home. When you are ready to Please make sure to discuss your financial position ment' and will ensure seamless development of write an offer, just ask the seller's agent how many dis- with your financial advisor and CPA before you jump infrastructure and road network within and closures have been downloaded and how many offers too far, risking your 3% deposit and having to work for around GDA," it said. are expected. the house than you living in one. Under the draft policy, a three-rung approach This will give you an idea about the possible selling We saw how a short squeeze can wreck the stock for development of lands falling under GDA has price and where you need to be for a winning bid. market with the Gamestop stock. In housing we are been adopted, namely Grade 1, Grade 2 and Upfront disclosures means that buyers are writing having a Shortage Squeeze, and they are not the Grade 3, the officials said. non-contingent offers and accepting seller state- same. Inventory shortage and demand for bigger, bet- The policy provides a comprehensive frame- ments as well as seller ordered inspection reports. ter homes are driving the prices of the homes above work defining minimum land area required for This leaves uncertainty related to loans and apprais- many homebuyers' comfort zones. green development, i.e. for Grade 1 category, the als. Financially strong buyers, after consultation with With upward pressure on the jumbo loan interest minimum plot area required is 600 sqm; for Grade their financial advisor and mortgage broker, are re- rates and the rising home prices, there is a day that may 2 it is 4,000 sqm; and 10,000 sqm for Grade 3, the moving contingencies related to the loans and ap- arrive some time next year, where a given home stays statement said. praisals. So, the name of the game in town is writing on the market for 30 days and gets one offer that the Accordingly, the FAR (floor area ratio) have also over asking non-contingent offers on the property, seller deals with. Until such time, as the home prices been prescribed depending on proposed grade rise, it's going to be 25+ offers, then 20+ of- of development ranging from 5 in case of Grade This will give you an idea about the possible fers, or 10+ offers or 2-3 offers with homes 1; 20 for Grade 2; and an FAR of 60 for Grade 3, it selling price and where you need to be for a selling above their asking prices. There is too added. much demand to even think this market will "The policy allows for incentivized develop- winning bid. Upfront disclosures means that go down anytime soon, in absence of job ment on agglomerated land parcels of bigger buyers are writing non-contingent offers and losses (no income) and a stock market crash size. It also enumerates permissible uses, activi- (less down payment). Until then, I see price ties, mix of activities, parking and other manda- accepting seller statements as well as seller differences between the Silicon Valley tory provisions," it said. homes and Suburban homes narrowing as For instance, in Grade 3 category, a wide range against the advice of their Realtors and Real Estate the quality of life argument is in play. of activities such as higher education campuses brokers, to secure a winning bid. Word to the wise - buy now, before prices rise and (including vocational training), non-polluting work We are also seeing the buyers in Silicon Valley move before interest rates rise. centers, like cyber and knowledge industry, re- to the outskirts of the 680 corridor. They are realizing Amit Inamdar, Realtor, is a Real Estate and Mortgage search and development, agro processing and that there is more value for the money and a better Broker and has helped residents of the Bay Area with packaging, cold storage, green houses, conven- quality of life. According to the 2020 buying, selling, investing, and financing real estate. CA tion and exhibition centers, concert spaces, sta- C.A.R. survey (California Association of Realtors), DRE 01355522, NMLS 236574 dia, cultural performance spaces, museums, art over 22% of the home buyers have quality of life as a Visit his website: h ttp://OwnSweetHome. Net or galleries, have been allowed, the DDA said. PTI primary reason to change counties, followed by hous- call him at (510) 364-6686. TOP TEN FILM SONGS

1 Taaron Ke Shehar: Taaron Ke Shehar Naach Meri Rani 30 India Post www.indiapost.com February 19, 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 ctor Sushmita Sen gave fans a glimpse of 7 Dil Chahte Ho: Dil Chahte Ho Aa pensive moment from a day out at the 8 BamBholle: Laxmii sea. She prefers to define the expression as 9 Aabaad Barbaad : Ludo the thinking pout. 10 Ae Mere Dil: Ae Mere Dil "My #thinkingpout. Whenever I am at Sea, I have a beautiful perspective of both land and ocean... it's a place where I am neutral. I have learned that the best decisions are made from where you're neutral... and not from where you're torn!! #sharing #introspection #depth #lifelessons #perspective #strength. I ahie Gill feels, "I say this about love you guys! #duggadugga," she wrote myself, I am not very market- with the image. M able in the sense that I can run a Sushmita made her movie on my shoulders," Mahie told comeback on screen IANS, adding: "This scare is more for with Ram bigger actors. It is scary for these Madhvani's web series actors. It is scary for these Aarya last people." year. The Mahie seems to have se- series cured a position among actors was a for whom performance mat- hit and a ters more than the box office second season is in pressure. "If your film doesn't the offing. IANS work but if you are appreciated as an actor you keep getting work," she pointed out. ctor Jacqueline Fernandez took everyone by sur Mahie made her debut prise as she shared a picture of performing a A in Bollywood in 2003 jaw-dropping stunt with the help of aerial with "Hawayein" but silk. she became a familiar Jacqueline posted a pic- face playing a new-age ture on Instagram, Paro in Anurag Kashyap's where she is seen 2009 release, "Dev.D". wearing an ivory Her notable Bollywood colored leotard. She roles have been in is seen hanging in "Saheb, Biwi Aur air with the help of a Gangster", "Saheb, fabric which supports Biwi Aur Gangster her from the waist. Returns" and "Upside down Hi!" she "Gulaal". wrote as the caption. The actress, The actress made her who was last Bollywood debut with Aladin seen in the digi- in 2009. She later went on to do tally released films such as Housefull (2010), film Murder 2 (2011), Dishoom, Judwaa "Durgamati", 2 (2017), Brothers (2015), Kick will soon be (2014) and Race 3 (2018). seen in Mahesh She currently has multiple films lined up.Jacqueline will be Manjrekar's seen in the starrer Bachchan Pandey, Kick 2, Bhoot Police and Cirkus in the web series coming months. IANS "1962: The War In The Hills". The “THE ACTRESS MADE HER BOLLYWOOD DEBUT WITH ALADIN IN 2009” show unites her on screen with her "Dev.D" co- star Abhay Deol. IANS February 19, 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 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com Philosophy Deepening a unique bond: An Afghan J. KRISHNAMURTI cialist, oh, a dozen things. To escape from this pattern become terribly re- diplomatic journey in India leasure is entirely different from ligious, or terribly worldly, or revolt AMB TAHIR QADIRY joy, isn't it? When you are joyous, P against the established order, which is he signing of the Shahtoot Dam sphere: India. It was no easy task. And when you think about it, it becomes built on this pattern. project in Kabul today (February the fact that I barely boasted of gray pleasure doesn't it? And the person who revolts creates 9, 2021) between Afghan Foreign hair on my head two years ago, which We know all how pleasure comes T the same pattern, the same thing in a Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar and is now brimful of that, says a lot. At the about. It is a stimulus. All right. Go into different pattern. He is still seeking Indian Minister of External Affairs S. same time, it is pertinent to note that it please. Look at the pleasures you pleasure, avoiding fear. Then what is Jaishankar witnessed by Afghan Presi- although a Chargé d'Affaires serves as have. And also you have at rare mo- one to do? You follow this thing? Be- dent Mohammad Ashraf Ghani and In- an embassy's chief of mission in the ments great joy, don't you? Sudden cause the whole religious structure is dian Prime Minister Narendra Modi au- absence of the ambassador, he/she burst of joy. Is there a difference be- based on escaping from this: believe gurs well for the shared ambitions and doesn't enjoy wide discretionary pow- tween the two? Look, you have sud- in something marvellous, think about aspirations envisaged by both Afghani- ers, and his/her ambit of operation and denly, as you are walking along you it all the time. But the other thing goes stan and India regionally and globally. functionality is limited. I was also the feel extraordinarily happy, and the on all the time also. This marks the continuity in the non-resident Chief of Mission to moment you think about it, it has gone. So there is contradiction in wanting legacy of brotherly cooperation be- Maldives, Bhutan, and Nepal. Further, as No? No? to be free of it, and yet be in it. I don't tween the two nations but with ever- I have also been responsible for the At that moment of great joy there is know if you see all this. So they say, growing resoluteness and profound- Government-run Sayed Jamaluddin Af- no thinker. The thinker comes in and 'Suppress thought, control thought, ness. The project, worth USD 286 mil- ghan School in Delhi and a Co-Chairper- says, 'I wish I could have that extraor- kill the mind'. No? Who is it that's go- lion will bring relief to the residents of son for India-Afghanistan Foundation. In dinary moment again'. So the thinker ing to suppress thought? You see the Kabul by providing safe drinking water such a scenario, my situation can be has made joy into pleasure by thinking danger? So that whole process of for, at least, two million people. The best described as someone who's nei- about it. No? So there is a difference thinking has no meaning whatever. Shahtoot Dam project will be India's ther riding on top of a horse nor under between joy and pleasure. I have had Right? second largest in Afghanistan after the it, but rather flying midway. Therefore, pleasure, somebody said something All escapism has no meaning, Salma Dam project. This would invari- it's interesting and worth discerning nice. I have had sexual pleasure. I have whether that escape be in social work, ably help mitigate water scarcity in the what truly transpired in the last two had pleasure in achievement, in suc- watching football, or attending, going country. In addition to this, India will years between our bilateral diplomacy implement 150 High Im- The project, worth USD 286 million will bring At the moment of joy, pact Commu- nity Develop- relief to the residents of Kabul by providing safe there is no thinker ment Projects worth USD 80 drinking water for, at least, two million people. The thinker comes in and says, 'I wish million. The ven- The Shahtoot Dam project will be India's second I could have that extraordinary ture is one in largest in Afghanistan after the Salma Dam line with innu- J. Krishnamurti moment again' merable oth- ers that we have witnessed in the past with India. cess, in making a name for myself, and to churches where there is another few years; various other projects have Afghanistan and the tale of that pleasure is something entirely dif- form of entertainment. So unless you been undertaken by India in Afghani- Kabuliwala ferent from enjoyment, from joy. No? solve this basic problem, that is, to stan in the fields of education, medical In the initial period of my stint, I ex- Joy is in the now. Pleasure is some- learn all about it, then only the mind sector, trade, commerce, and so on. posed myself to better comprehend- thing which happened yesterday and I can be free from it. Which means, can However, if one meticulously observes ing Indian culture and society and it's want it repeated today. I think about the mind observe the various forms of the underlying thread that defines our understanding of Afghanistan in re- the thing that gave me pleasure yes- pleasures, the stimuli and so on, and bilateral ties with India today, the trans- turn. I was taken off-guard to realize terday and the very thinking about also all the fears which thought has formational approach, guiding our cur- that although Afghanistan and Afghans that pleasure sustains that thing which bred in its search for security. Right? rent bilateral understanding, becomes enjoy a status of a cherished friend of was called pleasurable yesterday. No? Excerpted from Public Talk 1 apparent. India, the common masses in India So thought sustains pleasure, doesn't Brockwood Park, England - 5 Septem- Diplomatic journey were oblivious to the current realities it? And also thought sustains fear. No? ber 1970. The 35th death anniversary When I joined our embassy, first as a of Afghanistan and the transformation You are uncertain about that? I of J.Krishnamurti falls on February 17. Minister Counselor and later as a it has gone through in the last two de- might lose my job. I am not so nice Chargé d'Affaires, to India in New Delhi, cades. In my interactions with the ordi- looking as you, not so clever, I might die the scenario was different. Soon I as- nary Indians, they almost always tomorrow. I am lonely, I want to be 50 SPIRITUAL APPETIZERS sumed the responsibility of a Head of harked back to the tale of Kabuliwala, loved, I may not be loved and so on. Vinod Dhawan Mission to India in one of our biggest written by a Noble-laureate literary Thought does both, sustains both fear “It’s a lovely book. It feels en- embassies in the world because of the genius Rabindranath Tagore in 1892. as well as pleasure. No? So what are ergetically clear and light. It’s absence of an ambassador. Further, the Besides the tale, their comprehension you going to do about it? easy to read, dip in and out and country for which I was responsible to of Afghanistan was very little, mostly Put an end to thought, knowing most importantly it offers infor- engage to further our joint coopera- relied on international news channels. thought breeds and sustains and nour- mation without fluff! Blessings tion and national interests vigorously South Asia Monitor ishes these two. And to escape from on this project.” Jac O’Keeffe was, in fact, one of the most important For detailed story visit this pattern we go off. Right? We turn Spirituality teacher based in and major players in the international www.indiapost.com to meditation, we turn to Zen, we turn USA. to - you know, become Communist, So- Available on AMAZON, FLIPKART Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author February 19, 2021 OP-ED India Post 33 www.indiapost.com Disengagement at LAC: Decoding China-India moves ahead MAJOR GENERAL S.B. ASTHANA

hina and India have an- The Defense Ministry's discomfort includes Indian dis- nounced the disen statement in Rajya Sabha on positions in India's Sub Sector Cgagement of troops February 11 highlights that the North including DBO, infra- along Line of Actual Control Chinese side will keep its troop structure development includ- CONFIDENCE BUILDING (LAC), at the southern and presence in the North Bank ing DSDBO road, viewed as a he time has come to restore confidence and peace northern bank of the Pangong area to east of Finger 8, thus threat to crucial Tibet-Xinjiang- Tamongst citizens and find common ground for the bet- Tso Lake having commenced moving back from Finger 4 to Pakistan connectivity, which terment of the country. Even though Trump deserves some since February 10. It seems to 8. Reciprocally, the Indian will remain. The Chinese aim of form of punishment according to many people, the senate be a positive step to mark the troops will be based at their preventing Indian infrastruc- acquitted him in the case of promoting riots at Capitol Hill. beginning of a possible end of permanent base at Dhan Singh ture development hasn't been After his acquittal, Trump made a statement to make one of the longest stand-offs, Thapa Post near Finger 3. A achieved; as both sides con- America great again. which had tremendous finan- similar action would be taken tinue development of infra- Biden has his hands full to improve America's Heath sys- cial and human cost to bear, in the South Bank area by both structure in areas they per- tem especially with vaccine distribution and the rebuilding due to 'LOCisation' of the LAC, sides. Structures built by both ceive to be theirs. of economy. For starters it was a good move to reconnect in harsh winters. A compulsion sides since April 2020, in North What India needs to be with China but he will have to be extremely careful in deal- to get into some mutually ac- and South Bank area to be re- Careful of? ing with the dragon. The White House has said it had, "deep ceptable solution, out of nu- moved and the landforms re- India in Ladakh is in a posi- concerns" about the way the findings of the Covid-19 re- merous negotiations at various stored. The Chinese, however, tion of strength, having cre- levels is understandable, as have not put out any such as- ated a vulnerability for China port were communicated. The team led by WHO did not get stretching the standoff be- surances in public domain, so south of Pangong Tso and oc- full access to some key areas for their fact-findings. yond a point was serving no far. cupation of some crucial For the past one year China's policy is to assert and prove useful purpose. The actual The Ministry also high- heights elsewhere. The profes- they are now a global power. One can see the way they are worth of announcements will lighted some outstanding is- sionalism of expanding their footprint starting in the East against Japan, be seen in implementation sues with regard to deploy- Indian Military under ex- , and the South China Sea. They did try The actual worth of announcements will tremely harsh climatic condi- to confront India and hopefully now things may change to- tions of Ladakh, and the na- wards peaceful settlement. Modi has handled quite well on be seen in implementation stage, in view of tional resolve of India, to have this issue. On the farmer's front in India, he is trying his best reacted speedily and deci- but slowly it is turning into political mudslinging and the trust deficit and past track record of Chinese in sively during the pandemic, real issue has been pushed back. In India's East, BJP appears creating a mirror image de- junking agreements, when it suits them, as to have forged ahead in Bengal for the forth-coming assem- ployment to even out PLA's bly elections and has begun to build inroads in South India. the LAC as well as border first movers advantage, has forced China to revisit its op- In Myanmar, military seems threatened by ongoing pro- stage, in view of trust deficit ment and patrolling at some tions, leading to the present tests by the people who are turning out in large numbers and past track record of Chi- other points along the LAC in agreement. This agreement on the streets of major cities. It's possible the military may nese in junking agreements, Eastern Ladakh to be discussed will lead to India losing major use force in the coming weeks. But the protest is gaining when it suits them, as the LAC later, in next meeting of the advantage of some heights on tremendous support from people cutting across all sections as well as border remains un- Senior Commanders within 48 Kailash Range, a crucial bar- and could be very different from the past if the junta con- demarcated between both hours after the complete dis- gaining chip, in exchange of siders the use of force. US had already placed sanctions countries. engagement in the Pangong Chinese recoiling from North of against some Generals and their relatives. EU and many Decoding the Statements Lake area. It indirectly implies Pangong Tso. This will have to other nations may follow with further sanctions in weeks to and Implications that some Indian concerns in- be pursued with vacation of come. The Generals will have to be very careful this instance, Chinese strategic design in- cluding extra kilometer-age Depsang and other areas, with- as times have changed and repercussions could be hard to volves misinterpreting the with China in Depsang plains, out which LAC will de facto get swallow. UN along with more than 14 nations has urged the statements to its convenience. Galwan, Gogra and other areas, altered not in Indian favor. junta to release Aung San Suu Kyi and the elected leaders. Chinese statement indicates restrictions on patrolling, vul- Given the track record of that it is a Pangong Tso specific nerability of DS-DBO road will China, it may go through this Meanwhile in UK the government is trying its best to deal Agreement, meaning synchro- remain to be discussed later. agreement temporarily and with the virus variant. It is ascertained the variant is not only nized and organized disen- From Chinese perspective, later follow it up by a military more contagious, but also more lethal. It may also lead to gagement of frontline troops it indirectly means that newly action, post winters to reoc- more hospitalizations and deaths. at the southern and northern occupied heights on Kailash cupy same areas after getting The world also saw several earthquakes this past week. bank of the Pangong Tso Lake, Range, which were their major Kailash Range vacated from In- Japan quake measuring 7.1 hit Fukushima that resulted in which can be well inferred by concern, will be vacated in a dians, due to its faster mobili- damaged structures and injuring more than 100 people. them as pullback of Indian phased, coordinated and veri- zation advantage due to its Luckily there was no casualty or tsunami. troops from Kailash Range, in fied manner by both. The mili- better infrastructure. IANS Earthquakes measuring 6.3 in Tajikistan, tremors in Af- exchange of PLA moving back tary activity including patrol- ghanistan, Pakistan and in Punjab and Delhi, NCR were re- their frontline troops from Fin- ling to the traditional areas will For detailed stories visit corded. And earlier this month, in Central America's ger 4 and continuing to main- cease temporarily in north and www.indiapost.com Guatemala,the Fuego volcano erupted with fumes reaching tain their presence elsewhere. south of Pangong Tso. Chinese 3.5 Km above sea level. Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author 34 India Post February 19, 2021 www.indiapost.com