66th Year -- No. 3641 Tuesday, December 29, 2020 www.mauritiustimes.com facebook.com/mauritius.times 18 Pages - ePaper MAURITIUS TIMES

l “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” -- Oprah Winfrey

Interview: Que sera - sera? Chetan Ramchurn

The most perilous job has been futurology, making “After a dreadful first year, the predictions about the future. No model could anticipate what was happening, and it is going to be the same for 2021

worst, I fear, is yet to come” Dr R Neerunjun Gopee + See Page 3 * See Pages 7-8-9 Crystal-Gazing 2021

Coronavirus: how the pandemic could play out in 2021 By Adam Kleczkowski, University of Strathclyde + See Page 2-12

It is easy to look forward to 2021 and list the ills likely to befall the world. Realism dictates that we must do so for ignoring the problems will not make them go away. Photo - himalayanheroes.com

By Anil Madan + See Page 4-18 Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 www.mauritiustimes.com Edit Page facebook.com/mauritius.times 2

The Conversation Rough Road Ahead In 2021 Coronavirus: how the pandemic he year that is about to end has been that is, ominously, imposing further financial lived under the deadly shadow of an burden on coming generations. Tinvisible, infiltrative enemy that has all On the political front, there’s the list of could play out in 2021 but decimated the world. It is a year that has questions that have not found answers in had one constant: uncertainties on every Parliament, but government may well be As vaccination begins to take effect, what we'll be able to do front that we can think of. Every indication is under an illusion if it thinks that they are that these will persist, but there is one thing going to go away. Far from the parliamentary will change – but the transformation will be slow that is certain as we enter 2021: the road vacation till March next year being one of accines for ahead is going to be very rough, and not only respite, it looks more set to become the lull Covid-19 are for Mauritius, though we may be hit the har- before the storm. The opposition will no now being der because of a number of vulnerabilities doubt sharpen itself, turn on the heat and dig V rolled out, but in for which we are to a large extent responsi- in when Parliament reopens. ble, such as the generous electoral goodies some parts of the that have been distributed or the white ele- To complicate matters, a pandora’s box world, this good phant type projects the country has engaged has been opened with the mysterious deaths news has been tem- in. that have taken place and that appear to be pered by the emer- linked, with suspicions of political involve- gence of new, We have to reckon with the difficulties ment being investigated by the legal team potentially more in- and obstacles associated with the rolling out that has taken the defense of the main case, fectious strains of of the vaccines that are in the pipeline allied that of Soopramanien Kistnen a political the virus. Exactly to the emergence of a new, more infectious agent of the MSM. The important issue of how the pandemic strain of the coronavirus, to which the recent motive for a possible foul play is being hin- will evolve has surges and further restrictions that have fol- ted at by the findings related to his account become more Photo - statnews.com lowed can be added – all these together keeping for electoral expenses in Consti- uncertain. have affected more severely and widely our tuency No. 8. As this angle is probed further will take many months. traditional export markets. These very same Certainly, the next three or so we may be in for more surprises that will add In the UK, GPs are rolling out vac- factors also point to a second fact that we more heat to the situation. months will be challenging, and a have to face: it will take longer rather than virus-free life is probably some way cines, and an average English GP shorter for these markets to be open once The landscape of the country that is off. Some things may not return to looks after nearly 9,000 people. again for usual let alone more business, thus emerging at the end of 2020 is one where how they were before. Assuming GPs work eight hours each implying even more difficulty for our even- political, economic and social incidents and day, need 10 minutes to vaccinate tual economic recovery. forces have played out under the threat of a Predicting exactly how things will someone, and each patient needs two pandemic to create a climate of apprehen- play out is difficult, but there are some shots, it would take them more than a As it is, the debt level of the country has sion that has gripped the population, despite things we can forecast with a relative year to see all their patients. Others, of already exceeded the upper limit of what is their seeming calm as they go about prepar- degree of confidence. With that in course, will help with the roll-out, but considered sustainable according to criteria ing to have some measure of relaxation mind, here’s what we can expect from this shows the size of the task. Delays set by recognized international institutions. during the new year festivities. Soon enough the coming year. will be unavoidable. Government has had to draw from the they will discover that these are short-lived Special Reserves of the Central Bank to as the fears and anxieties return when the What impact will the new Additionally, the two doses of the finance the stimulus package to big “dis- celebrations are over. strain have? Pfizer vaccine need to be given 21 tressed” business and the wage assistance days apart, with full immunity arriving scheme. En passant, it must be pointed out At the cost of repeating ourselves, it is There’s currently only limited infor- seven days after the second jab. that small businesses have not benefited worth reiterating that it is only our Constitu- mation about the new viral strain. Other vaccines – such as Astra- from any such largesse and have had to fight tion and our institutions which rigorously and Although yet to be confirmed, it Zeneca’s – require an even longer for their survival on their own. fearlessly uphold it that can salvage the appears to be more infectious, but not period between doses. It will take at country from losing its way and becoming to lead to more severe disease or be The question that arises based on the least a month (if not more) to see the unlivable. The integrity and patriotism of the able to evade vaccine-derived immu- preceding is how long will the government full effect in each vaccinated person. persons who are at the helm of our institu- nity. be able to continue with the wage assistance tions is the sine qua non criterion which will In countries that relaxed social dis- scheme, a second package having already reassure the citizens that they can lay their However, the variant suggests the tancing rules for Christmas, we might been advanced? Commonsense dictates heads on their pillows in serenity. We have virus is able to produce significant see a post-Christmas spike in cases. that there will be a limit, and then what will no choice but to look forward with this much mutations, and further mutations could In this case, vaccines are unlikely to be the solution? Further borrowing from tra- of hope for the sake of our country – that if change the course of the outbreak. change much initially – the disease ditional and non-traditional partners? That the political class is failing us, we have the Suppressing the pandemic quickly will have too much momentum in early means more debts, but equally and more guarantee that our institutions will be there to therefore has become an even more 2021. This will also probably be the importantly it also means that there is no free rein in the forces that are inimical to the safe- urgent task. case in the UK thanks to the new lunch: every loan or grant comes at a price, ty and security of citizens. strain of the virus, even though restric- one that is not disclosed to the public and Stricter restrictions on behaviour tions weren’t lifted for many. Public are likely to last well into the new year, awareness of the disease’s momen- and we may need further restrictions tum is needed, to avoid loss of confi- Mauritius Times to control the virus if it is indeed more dence in vaccination. Founder/Editor: Beekrumsing Ramlallah - Aug 1954-Sept 2000 infectious. Editor-in-chief: M. Ramlallah / Senior Editor: Dr RN Gopee How long until we see the This epaper has been produced with the assistance of vaccine’s effects? Adam Kleczkowski, Doojesh Ramlallah, Sultana Kurmally and Kersley Ramsamy Producing enough vaccine doses Prof of Mathematics and Statistics, Pearl House 4th Floor Room 406 - Sir Virgil Naz Street, Port Louis is a big task – production might hit a University of Strathclyde Tel: 5-29 29301 Tel/Fax: 212 1313 bottleneck. Even assuming we can [email protected] www.mauritiustimes.com facebook.com/mauritius.times make all we need, immunising people * Cont. on page 12 Op-Ed Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 3 I personally know of many families that have spent their weekends in this way. But I also learnt of instances of high net worth individuals who had flown in, having booked a Que sera – sera? whole hotel. On the other hand, we can consider ourselves fortunate in comparison to so many other countries because we The most perilous job has been futurology, making have not had to face any severe lockdown after the one and only that was imposed shortly after the pandemic predictions about the future. No model could anticipate what began. People have been going about practically normally, and the end of year shopping has only confirmed this was happening, and it is going to be the same for 2021 trend. very culture has a cre- Looking to 2021, it is likely to continue. There are two ation hymn. That of Ethe Hindus is found in Dr R Neerunjun Gopee its sourcebook, the Vedas, specifically in the Rigveda which is one of the four Vedas. Its last stanza is as follows:

Whence this creation has arisen – perhaps it formed itself, or perhaps it did not – the One who looks down on it, in the highest heaven, only He knows or perhaps even He does not know.

Substitute ‘creature’ for ‘creation’ and think Covid-19. A WHO team is visiting or will visit Wuhan to try and unrav- el the enigma of the origin of the coronavirus that has swept the world since the beginning of the year. Maybe the mystery will persist, and nobody will ever know. Fact is, this has been a year of uncertainties on all fronts, and of surprises, most of them very nasty as the tsunami unfurled to inflict disease and cause death on a scale that was last seen during the Spanish flu of 1918. To date it has affected nearly 80 million people and caused about 1.8 million deaths. The most perilous job has been futurology, making pre- dictions about the future. No model could anticipate what was happening, and it is going to be the same for 2021. We are perforce resigned to say – or to cheer ourselves up by singing the melodious ‘Que sera sera’: ‘What will be will be’. Because, really, no, we don’t know with any degree of This has been a year of uncertainties on all fronts, and of surprises, most of them nasty as the tsunami unfurled to inflict precision que sera. And we are hung upon sera, sera pas? “ disease and cause death on a scale that was last seen during the Spanish flu of 1918. To date it has affected nearly 80 Will vaccines that have started to be rolled out stop million people and caused about 1.8 million deaths. The most perilous job has been futurology, making predictions about the Covid-19 in its track? That’s the hope. But when? How long future. No model could anticipate what was happening, and it is going to be the same for 2021. We are perforce resigned to will it take? Only in a few countries or the whole world? Will say – or to cheer us up by singing ‘Que sera sera’: ‘What will be will be’…” the same vaccines be effective against the new variant? Will new variants arise? drastic readjustments in schools and colleges with kids at items on my wish-list for the country as we enter the new Some countries which thought they had passed the home posing new challenges for parents, learning from peak saw new spurts that soon became wholesale surges. year. The first is that the ‘metro’ works be planned to be home and rescheduling of exams; impacts on tourism, the completed at the earliest, and preferably not extend Will this trend stop or continue because of the mutant leisure and entertainment industries; forced staying at virus? beyond 2021. And if the line could reach up to Mahebourg home especially in apartments giving rise to stress and to as envisaged, that would be a great plus. Along with this, It will be recalled that Covid was initially thought to be mental health conditions; in some countries an alarming government should roll out an incentive plan to encourage like just another flu virus. Until it started to show its fangs. increase in teenage suicides; international travel shutdown travellers to leave their cars and use the tram. I dream of a It began to claw at other tissues and organs of the body, with the winding up of several airlines which were already 2021 where the nightmare of traffic congestion will longer and to affect all age groups though with a predilection for struggling for survival. haunt us. the elderly and those with co-morbidities. Complicating these changes that Covid has wrought, This would be helped further if work from home that But that was not the end – and will probably not be as there was the dilly-dallying about the appropriate and time- many must have become used to now could become insti- more secrets are most likely to be unveiled. The flu does- ly responses to the crisis that divided politicians. Don’t for- tutionalized, in both the public and private sectors. Allied to n’t leave sequelae. Covid-19 does. It scars the lungs, cau- get the enactment of emergency legislation that was this could also be worked out a viable flexitime schedule sing respiratory distress that has affected patients who viewed with concern by citizens in democratic jurisdictions that would allow working mothers to be at home by the time thought they had recovered, and led physicians to advise as being tantamount to Big Brother overlordship and their kids come back from school. patients to be prepared to undergo follow-up scans after a infringement of fundamental rights. Restrictions were sure few months of recovery. The heart, brain – both cognitive necessary – but how far and how long for are questions The immense social benefit of this measure cannot be and mental functions –, the kidneys are impacted too. And that may remain unanswered for an indeterminate period. underestimated. However, this will need strong political it causes a tendency for blood to clot, so that patients in direction and will, as well as disruption in the bureau- whom this is detected may have to be on prolonged anti- We too have lived through that reality, but there is also cratese that prefers the status quo. clotting therapy. an alternative one isn’t it. For example, the tourism indus- try – meaning essentially hotel occupancy – was severely A better 2021 for us will thus require some bold deci- The disruptions that occurred were qualitatively the affected. But throughout, there have been two sources of sion making, kind of ‘a small step for the establishment, but same in all countries, the most salient ones being: closure compensation, though not in foreign currency. They were a major advance for the country’. of businesses and loss of jobs, but also new opportunities travellers who had to be quarantined, and local tourists Happy New Year to all. of repurposing for the manufacture of masks, ventilators, who have thronged the hotels both here and in Rodrigues. Personal Protective Equipment, hand sanitisers, gloves; Other Voices Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 4 Breakfast With Bwana Crystal-Gazing 2021 There is light at the end of the tunnel but the light will shine on the richer nations long before rays of hope come to poorer nations

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) will therefore continue to loom over the world, for all intents and pur- Anil Madan poses, the equivalent of another virus. From the day that Britain ceded control to China, the world knew that the CCP presented an existential threat to Hong Kong and 021 starts with hope. sadly, we have seen that danger become a reality. The In unison, the world CCP acts with impunity, its agreement with Britain to 2hopes that the coro- honor Democracy in Hong Kong, empty words. The sad navirus pestilence will go truth is that the CCP has good reason to believe that in away. As for Trump the the long run, it can ignore the rest of the world and do as pest, one-half of a divided it pleases. There was little hope that Britain could enforce America fears that he will any part of the agreement it made with China. Trust in not exit gracefully. The and reliance on China's goodwill were misplaced. other half, seeing his pre- sidency as more fest than As a practical matter, the only country that can stop pest hopes that he will find China's expansionary moves is the US, but US policy on a way to stay. The applica- China is fickle, indecisive, and too much influenced by tion of science and know- the interests of America's corporations. We have had our ledge has delivered vac- wake-up call. Will we pay attention? cines putting the world on There is a very good reason for concern. The exis- the verge of consigning tential threat that the CCP presents to Taiwan has long Covid-19 to history. The been known. As recently as this past September, application of Demo-cracy Associated Press reported that China warned the United has brought us to the States on Monday of potential “serious damage” to their verge of relegating Trump China and the US both need to recognize that the win-win solution is for both nations to prosper, relations if it does not withdraw from an upcoming eco- to a historical footnote. that conquest by one of the other is not possible. Photo - Financial Times nomic meeting with Taiwan that is expected to be at- The record voter turnout tended by a senior American official. Imagine the temeri- at the US presidential President will transfer its loyalty to Biden. As a former ty of China "warning" the US that it should not send an election this year evoked the wisdom attributed to Lincoln President, Trump will be entitled to protection but not the official to a meeting with Taiwanese counterparts. that you cannot fool all of the people all of the time. pretense of power. Whether he sees the light or remains Temerity devolves to audacity. Chinese foreign ministry Hope aside, it is easy to look forward to 2021 and list in a dark tunnel of his own making matters not. The spokes-man Wang Wenbin urged the US at a daily brie- the ills likely to befall the world. Realism dictates that we unknown is, of course, the extent to which Trump will fing to “stop all forms of official exchanges with Taiwan, must do so for ignoring the problems will not make them remain a force in the Republican Party. so as to avoid serious damage to China-US. relations go away. Expansionary moves & military and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.” The single biggest concern and hope for 2021 the adventurism The issue of Taiwan puts the US on a collision course with China which treats Taiwan as a matter of its domes- world over is, of course, bringing the coronavirus pan- If the seemingly unending and unyielding battle tic affairs and an inalienable part of China, no matter that demic to an end. Vaccines from multiple sources - Pfizer, against Covid-19 will continue to be the single most Secretary of State Pompeo declared that Taiwan has not Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, AstraZeneca, Russia, important story of 2021, the Chinese Communist Party been a part of China. India, China - hold the promise of that conquest. But it will (CCP) will continue its own unending and unyielding take time and likely well beyond 2021. quest for domination and exploitation. A Chinese attack With the Trump administration out, it is unclear how Canada has pre-ordered nine doses per capita, the on Taiwan is the only event that could trump the end of the Biden administration's foreign policy imperatives will US, UK, and Australia three to four doses per capita. Covid-19 and Trump's own exit. germinate when it comes to China. But if Biden does not Japan, Switzerland, and Indonesia, all relatively rich stand firm and demand an end to Chinese sanctions on countries, also have ordered more than enough. India, a American companies that sell weapons to Taiwan, indeed major producer of pharmaceuticals and vaccines has As the widespread administration of impose counter-sanctions on China's business dealings ordered two billion doses. “ vaccines gets underway, we should with the US, things will only get worse. This is nothing see a gradual return to life as we knew it. more than the old domino theory playing out — you lose Meanwhile, inoculation of a sizable number of people Hong Kong and Taiwan is gone. Then Bhutan, Nepal, Sri in poorer nations is not likely to be achieved until 2023 or When workers fill offices, restaurants, Lanka, and who knows where it ends? The difference this 2024. In the interim, and particularly in 2021, every coun- service businesses and retailers will time is that the principals, China and the US, are playing try must brace itself for more cases of Covid-19, more return. When travellers return to trains, the game directly and not through proxies. deaths, and more economic misery in the months ahead. The logistics of inoculating almost eight billion people are buses, and planes, hard-hit hotels and 2021 also holds the promise that America will no daunting. There is light at the end of the tunnel but the resorts will recover. People in tourist longer be involved in a war or military action outside its light will shine on the richer nations long before rays of areas who have lost their incomes and borders. If there is one lesson that the US has learned hope come to poorer nations. means of livelihood as tourists from its interventions around the globe, it is that American disappeared will have a chance to rebuild. military adventurism is generally a lose-lose proposition. In the meantime, anxiety over whether the Trump pest This may well be because the US has never had the will depart is alarmist paranoia and fake news hype. As a And perhaps in 2021, we will see a return acquisition of foreign lands as its goal. practical matter, it will be a non-issue. On January 20, of fans to sports stadiums, patrons 2021, Chief Justice Roberts will administer the oath of to museums, and music lovers to office to Joe Biden and Trump's term will end. The US Secret Service charged with the duty to protect the performances…” F Cont. on page 18 Spotlights Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 5

by January 2021 (only if it is proven India to play vital role in Covid vaccine immunogenic and efficacious)". As part of various partnerships and col- laborations for vaccine candidates, SII will distribution: Pharma Industry keep aside 50 per cent of whatever quan- tity of the vaccine candidates are produced ith vaccine rollout beginning in some January 2021 onwards. for India and the remaining quantity will go Wcountries, the world ravaged by the These vaccines are being to low and middle-income countries, he Covid-19 pandemic is looking to India for approved by our Drugs noted. the large-scale production and supply of Controller as per the stringent "So far, under at-risk manufacturing, coronavirus vaccines as it enters 2021. international norms. We take pride that almost 70 per cent we have already stockpiled 50 million "India contributes 60 per cent of the of the WHO vaccine procure- doses. Currently, our capacity is 60-70 vaccine production to the world. India is ments are from India". million doses per month, which will going to play a vital role in the inequitable increase further up to 100 million doses of distribution of vaccines around the world," Indian firms have used the vaccine per month by February 2021. Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) different platforms to produce However, we will progress to mass pro- Secretary-General Sudarshan Jain told vaccines. duction only after it is proven efficacious Indian firms have used different platforms to produce Press Trust of India. Scientists in these firms and immunogenic for mass use," Adar vaccines. Photo - sciencemag.org While Indian companies such as have the capability to produce Poonawalla said. Zydus, Bharat Biotech and Gennova are active consideration of India's drug regula- the vaccine to counter the About the price of the vaccine, he said, mutated forms in a short time, he added. developing indigenous vaccines, other tor and there is hope that early licensure is "We want the vaccine to be affordable and domestic companies are collaborating with possible for all or any of them, according to On the availability of the AstraZeneca- accessible to all. The Government of India global companies such as Serum Institute the Union health ministry. Oxford vaccine, Serum Institute of India will receive it at a far more affordable price with AstraZeneca, Dr Reddys with Sputnik, Indian Drug Manufacturers' Association (SII) CEO Adar Poonawalla told PTI that of USD 3-4, since they will be buying in a and Biological E with J&J, he added. (IDMA) Executive Director Ashok Kumar based on the trial results in India and the larger volume. The priority is going to be Currently, three COVID-19 vaccine Madan said, "We are sure with all the UK, and if approvals from regulatory India and the GAVI countries, after which candidates of Bharat Biotech, Serum attention given by the government, bodies are in place in time, "then we can only, the private market will open up where Institute of India, and Pfizer are under vaccines will too be available for use from expect the vaccine to be available in India the pricing would be USD 6-8 per dose". Chinese economy to overtake US Putin rumours run wild as he shrouds himself in secrecy ‘by 2028’ due to Covid ladimir Putin has surrounded odds with his decision to push Vhimself with such a thick fog of through legislation that allows him to "The Covid-19 pandemic and secrecy that it's now unclear where stay in power until 2036. The work corresponding economic fallout he is living, how many children he for that formally began last January, have certainly tipped this has, if his health is failing, or whether and he decided to rubber-stamp it rivalry in China's favour." he's planning to stay in power. with a nationwide referendum over The report says that after "a Tabloids this year dabbled in sto- the summer that was not legally nec- strong post-pandemic rebound ries that the Russian president was essary but offered Putin the chance in 2021", the US economy will sick and poised to quit the Kremlin. to show that he was still the boss grow by about 1.9% annually After Putin, who is 68, coughed at a when-as expected-he won the from 2022-24 and then slow to meeting with the government on referendum comfortably. 1.6% in the years after that. Nov. 19, the gossip went into over- The power move failed to quell By contrast the Chinese drive, reports Anna Nemtsova of the speculation among Moscow's economy is tipped to grow by Daily Beast. elite, where names of potential suc- 5.7% annually until 2025, and China is the only major global economy that will have expanded in Some claimed the president was cessors buzz around incessantly. 4.5% annually from 2026- 2020. Photo - headtopics.com suffering from cancer, others diag- On radio Echo of Moscow, known 2030. nosed him with Parkinson's disease. as Moscow's ear, the editor-in-chief hina will overtake the US to done. China's share of the world A video of Putin absentmindedly Aleksey Venediktov reports that the Cbecome the world's largest As a result, unlike other economy has risen from just playing with a folder in October top two contenders are ex-president economy by 2028, five years major economies, it has avoid- 3.6% in 2000 to 17.8% now fuelled the rumours that he was suf- Dmitry Medvedev, who is now earlier than previously fore- ed an economic recession in and the country will become a fering from some kind of degenera- deputy chair of the Security Council, cast, a report says. 2020 and is in fact estimated to "high-income economy" by tive condition. and Sergei Naryshkin, the director of The UK-based Centre for see growth of 2% this year. 2023, the report says. As pro-Putin ideologists often Foreign Intelligence. Economics and Business The US economy, by con- The Chinese economy is emphasize "Russia is Putin," so Others claim there will be anoth- Research (CEBR) said China's trast, has been hit hard by the not only benefitting from having media reports analyzed Putin's er Putin after Putin. The president's "skilful" management of Covid- world's worst coronavirus epi- controlled Covid-19 early, but health as a vital matter of Russia's nephew Roman Putin seems to have 19 would boost its relative demic in terms of sheer num- also aggressive policymaking future. big political ambitions-the business- growth compared to the US bers. More than 330,000 targeting industries like All of it without a shred of evi- man with the familiar name founded and Europe in coming years. people have died in the US and advanced manufacturing, said dence. The closest thing you get to a new political party this month Meanwhile India is tipped to there have been some 18.5 CEBR deputy chairman an official Kremlin health report is the called "Russia Without Corruption." become the third largest eco- million confirmed cases. The Douglas McWilliams. occasional shirtless photoshoot. Speculation over Putin's inten- nomy by 2030. economic damage has been "They seem to be trying to Professor Valery Solovey, who tions was further inflamed in Although China was the cushioned by monetary policy have centralised control at one has become one of Moscow's most November when the duma-Russia's first country hit by Covid-19, it and a huge fiscal stimulus. level, but quite a free market notorious sensationalists, this year Kremlin-friendly parliament-passed controlled the disease through "For some time, an overar- economy in other areas," he fanned the speculation on YouTube the first reading of a bill that would swift and extremely strict ching theme of global econo- told the BBC. "And it's the free by claiming that Putin was planning grant Russian presidents and their action, meaning it did not need mics has been the economic market bit that's helping them to quit any time now as a result of families immunity from prosecution to repeat economically and soft power struggle move forward particularly in some "force majeure." after they leave office. paralysing lockdowns as between the United States and areas like tech." The speculation over Putin's European countries have China," says the CEBR report. long-term health would seem to be at * More on Page 6 Spotlights Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 6 Brexit: 'Bumpy' period expected as UK adjusts to new EU rules here will be "bumpy moments" for UK businesses and Ttravellers as they get to grips with new EU rules, says British government minister Michael Gove. He said there would be "practical and procedural changes" when the Brexit transition period ends on 31 December. Mr Gove also urged people going to the EU to make extra checks, including mobile phone roaming charges. EU ambassadors have approved the post-Brexit trade deal, paving the way for it to take effect on 1 January. Under EU rules it can take effect provisionally, though the European Parliament will vote on it in January. In the UK, MPs will vote on the deal on Wednesday. Meanwhile, UK International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said she expects to sign a continuity trade agreement with Turkey this week - a move that was not possible until the deal with the EU was struck. Mr Gove told BBC Breakfast: "I'm sure there will be bumpy moments but we are there in order to try to do everything we can to smooth the path." He warned businesses that time was "very short" to make the final preparations before the transition period "Bumpy moments" for UK businesses and travellers as they get to grips with new EU rules. Photo -EPA ends. from 1 January to take out comprehensive travel major road leading to Holyhead port. "The nature of our new relationship with the EU - insurance, check their mobile phone provider's roaming Meanwhile, travellers from Great Britain will need to outside the Single Market and Customs Union - means charges and make sure they have at least six months left declare cash of Pounds 10,000 (£9,049) or more when that there are practical and procedural changes that on their passports. entering Northern Ireland from 1 January. businesses and citizens need to get ready for," he said. Measures are being put in place around the UK as it What took so long? The UK voted to leave the EU in Businesses have been urged to make sure they prepares to enter its new trading relationship with the EU. 2016 and actually left on 31 January 2020, but leaders understand the new rules on importing and exporting The Scottish government has signed a lease to use a had until the end of 2020 to work out a trade deal. goods, including the different rules that apply to trade with former military airfield in Dumfries and Galloway as an There are big changes ahead. Although it's a trade Northern Ireland, and to consider how they will make emergency lorry park for up to 240 vehicles if there is deal that has been agreed, there will also be changes to customs declarations on EU trade. disruption at Cairnryan port near Stranraer. how people travel between the EU and UK, and to the way Mr Gove also encouraged travellers to EU destinations In Wales, traffic measures have been introduced on a they live and work Covid: South Africa passes one million infections as cases surge 501.V2 - is believed to be driving the the UK. The ban will remain in place until surge in infections. It was identified by a at least the end of January. On Saturday, network of South African scientists in the Japan registered a record 3,881 infections Eastern Cape province and then rapidly including a new record for the capital, spread to other parts of the country. Tokyo, of 949 * * * The European Union has begun a co- UK has two cases of variant linked ordinated vaccine rollout, in what the bloc's most senior official said was a to South Africa "touching moment of unity". European Earlier this week, the UK banned Commission President Ursula von der travel from South Africa because of the Leyen said the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine new variant. Another new Covid variant had been delivered to all 27 member has already been detected in the UK, states. Some countries began administer- although they have evolved separately. ing the jabs on Saturday, saying they were Both have a mutation - called N501Y - not prepared to wait another day. which is in a crucial part of the virus that it South Korea reported its first cases of uses to infect the body's cells, but appear the UK variant in three people who arrived Hospitals and clinics in South Africa are under strain as the numbers of new unrelated to each other. from London on 22 December, the Korea cases rise. Photo - Reuters Other Covid developments Disease Control and Prevention Agency said on Monday outh Africa has become the first coun- further. The latest milestone was around the world In the US, top government scientist try on the continent to register more announced on Sunday by South Africa's S After South Africa, the worst hit country Anthony Fauci reiterated warnings that than one million Covid-19 cases. It comes Health Minister, Zweli Mkhize. The country on the African continent is Morocco, which there could be a surge in cases as a result just days after authorities confirmed that a has now confirmed 1,004,413 Covid-19 has seen 432,079 cases and 7,240 of families getting together over the new, faster-spreading, coronavirus variant infections and 26,735 deaths since the deaths. They are followed by Egypt with holiday season - despite being urged not had been detected. Some hospitals and outbreak began in March. 131,315 cases and 7,352 deaths and to do so. "I share the concern of medical centres have reported a huge rise Last week, South Africa recorded a Tunisia with 130,230 infections and 4,426 President-elect (Joe) Biden that as we get in admissions, putting a heavy strain on daily average of 11,700 new infections - a deaths. into the next few weeks, it [the outbreak] resources, reports BBC. rise of 39% on the previous week - and Japan imposed a ban on most non- might actually get worse," he told CNN. President Cyril Ramaphosa is widely from Wednesday to Friday, the daily num- resident foreign nationals entering the expected to announce tougher restrictions ber of new cases was above 14,000. country following confirmation of its first to prevent the virus from spreading A new coronavirus variant - known as cases of the new variant that emerged in Compiled by Doojesh Ramlallah Interview Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 7 ‘Should the chasm between the people and their representatives grow, we will be sitting on a ticking time bomb’

The observations of Chetan Ramchurn in this issue's interview on the several aberrations that have marked the country this year are as usual sharp and to the point, quite in line with his usual franc-parler. He is a private entrepreneur who has appeared several times in our columns, and he echoes the sentiments of the younger generation of patriots whose responsibility is to prepare the country for the future and as such his views have to be taken with all the seriousness that they deserve. Read on...

risks that may be unleashed by yet to break even and the strong such a Public Health Emergency The post-Wakashio presence of lackeys on social media of international concern". professing their utmost devotion to this protest stemmed out Still, there are doubts on the “ 37.68% Govern-ment. After a dreadful timing of the lockdown with many of ecological concerns and first year, we are to endure four more averring that had it been enacted years of that team. The worst, I fear, is before, there would have been the perception that there yet to come. fewer deaths resulting from the was no prompt action taken * Events and incidents that have virus. But, this being one of the been taking place and unfolding over rare good decisions of this in the face of a disaster. I am the past several weeks with a series Government, we should recognise happy to note that people of deaths, also in suspicious that the lockdown has been main- circumstances, have had the effect of tained for a long enough period are more aware of the mess creating an atmosphere of apprehen- and has ensured the safety of we are in now. Whether that sion not only among the population Mauritians. The opposition's but even the lawyers who have taken criticisms against the lack of pre- superior consciousness will up the case of Mr Kistnen and who paredness of the authorities how- outlast a future pension have expressed concern for their own ever have been proved right with security. Do you think that many examples of hefty panic hike, populist measures or apprehension in the minds of the buying from mysterious suppliers ethnic affiliations, I do not people about the law and order at the height of the crisis. know. Should the economic situation is justified? The Covid-19 pandemic Not everyone seems to be concerned should not mask our econo-mic situation further deteriorate though. In recent times, many have woes prior to it nor the ambient and the State does not act intervened on pro-government stations corruption that has been per- or platforms to admonish those that are ceived for years: the Government as a caring presence next to concerned about the state of law and has been pretty clueless on the those in need, there is order in the land. This is usually measures that would bail our expressed in succinct terms: 'Aret faire eco-nomy out and promises of a certainly the possibility palabres'. That this is expressed 4% GDP growth have remained a of civil unrest…” verbatim by several individuals shows mirage since 2014. Besides the St some form of orchestration; there is a Louis project, the Kistnen death shouting brigade that works towards and the inability of the authorities Seniority does not quelling dissenting voices. The lackeys to detect some form of foul play in close to power are working hard towards it, other 'achievements' of this 14- “always mean wisdom. getting the population to focus about month old government comprise There are so many good something else. our inclusion on the blacklist of the leaders that are young and One crucial book to understand the European Union, the massive Mauritian situation is Matthew Simonton protests against the apparent performing across the 'Classical Greek Oligarchy: A Political inaction of the Executive following Mauritius Times: It has been an eventful year what world. Let me add that youth History'. In this seminal work, the author with, amongst others, the Covid-19 outbreak and the Wakashio oil spill and the highlights how the 'elite' use institutions lockdown, the Wakashio shipwreck and oil spill, the proliferation of drugs in our socie- does not automatically mean to maintain the status quo and prevent ty. forced resignation of Ivan Collendavelloo following dynamism or talent as well. revolt. The apprehension is justified in the St Louis Redevelopment project scandal, and I should add however that light of the recent mysterious deaths. lately the disturbing things we are getting to learn there is one notable difference Have you seen some of our The judicial enquiry instituted following from the judicial inquiry into the death in suspicious between the "annus horribilis" of new government and the former MSM agent's death has circumstances of Soopramanien Kistnen. Truly an those in office and that of the revealed many loopholes in our system "annus horribilis" for the Government - and the population. The self-employed as opposition MPs? The people and even more glaringly the degree to country as well, isn't it? well as owners of small busi- we are looking for are which our institutions are poorly run. Chetan Ramchurn: Yes indeed, it has been a compli- nesses are left pretty much on That the hefty surveillance state cated year at global, regional and domestic levels. We their own while the government decision makers that can cameras failed to capture crucial footage knew since the beginning of 2020 that the Covid-19 knows that it has four more years adapt to an ever-changing and that someone who wanted to reveal outbreak would reach our shores. On February 3,, the in power. It is countering its how fraud and corruption were related to Leader of the Opposition questioned Minister Jagutpal on evident unpopularity with its usual environment and that the Kistnen case would not even have the dearth of personal protective equipment (PPE), on shtick: visits to religious will not sell them out his statement recorded in the diary book contact tracing as well as on security measures and ceremonies so that the Premier are revealing. Our institutions are failing whether a surveillance system had been implemented. can state repeatedly that he is still for the interests of The Minister's reply was: "Government is leaving no stone in control, staged PR coups cele- their financers…” unturned to protect our citizens from such unwarranted brating a tramway project that has * Contd on page 8 Interview Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 8 ‘Institutions are the men and women that make them. I would hope that they stand up for what is moral’

The self-employed as well as owners of small businesses “ are left pretty much on their own while the government knows that it has four more years in power. It is countering its evident unpopularity with its usual shtick: visits to religious cer- emonies so that the Premier can state repeatedly that he is still in control, staged PR coups celebrating a tramway project that has yet to break even and the strong presence of lackeys on social media professing their utmost devotion to this 37.68% Government…"

The composition of the MIC should have been done in a “ more intelligent manner. Political nominees with wobbly track records are ubiquitous in our institutions. Patented historical private sector guys having a say in the spending of our funds seems ludicrous. Socialising losses is hardly new in Mauritius. We had the stimulus package during the Labour years. Of course, no one wants to see a high unemployment rate in the country but there is simply too much opacity in the way funds are being disbursed…”

* Contd from page 7 will resort to anything to remain anony- of tougher times. Our crippled institutions, factions automatically elevates him to a But what are institutions? Institutions mous. Over the last few days, another unless reformed now with competent higher position than warranted. The oppo- are the men and women that make them. I matter has come out of this Pandora's people placed at their heads, could create sition had better get its strategy and tactics would hope that they stand up for what is Box. Evidence showing electoral expenses further distrust in the Government and right. moral. going beyond the statutory limit was should this chasm grow between the * 2021 promises to be a very chal- apparently in Kistnen's possession. people and their representatives, we will * But there is clearly more than lenging and perhaps more difficult year be sitting on a ticking time bomb. meets the eye that is going on. Mrs * The institutions created by the that what 2020 has been for the econo- Kistnen's lawyers have openly queried Constitution or set up by Parliament, * On the other hand, politics, like my. It's likely to be tough times for the the existence of a 'mafia', in light of the except for the judiciary and the DPP, nature, abhors a vacuum, and so do government but also for the jobless and appear shy to take the bull by the horns even income-earners, and economists suspicious death of the former MSM electors who are still on the lookout for and do what they have been set up for have been saying lately there's a limit to activist and the subsequent deaths that an alternative. The 'Entente', which has to put the house in order, and there is which the government can go in dish- all seem to have some connection with brought together the Labour Party, the apprehension in some quarters that it ing out subsidies/wage assistance and the supply chain of requirements MMM and the PMSD under one tent, would take just a spark to unleash even with disbursements from the during the pandemic. How do you react seems to have many more miles to go unrest in the country. What's your take Mauritius Investment Corporation Ltd to that speculation regarding the before it obtains popular support. Is it on that? (MIC) with a view to ensuring social existence of a mafia? difficult at this stage to anticipate how There are several levels of unrest or far it will go? peace in the country. Should we be Although it would not surprise me at all disturbances. The most prominent one in worried about what's going to happen that there could be one, it is crucial to I have strong doubts on the pertinence next? Mauritius takes the form of peaceful of this 'entente'. Of course, in the name of present some evidence that would link the marches. The post-Wakashio protest The usual response of our leaders is to deaths to each other. There seems to be a the greater good, there are always stemmed out of ecological concerns and collaborations that are possible. I wonder solicit foreign aid to sustain our expenses. lot of coincidences indeed with their the perception that there was no prompt This further reduces our independence how intelligent it is to have three leaders alleged involvement in the procurement of action taken in the face of a disaster. I am and sovereignty. Our clout, some might taking turns to speak in a cosy conference equipment or PPE during the lockdown. happy to note that people are more aware call it our allure, has in large part been built room. They seem to be disconnected from The Commissioner of Police seemed of the mess we are in now. Whether that on our exceptional geographical location in the masses. adamant that there is no such thing. I superior consciousness will outlast a the strategic Indian Ocean. I believe we would have preferred the same prompt- future pension hike, populist measures or I note that there seems to be no will resort to it to benefit from lines of ness when the possibility of a murder was ethnic affiliations, I do not know. Should ideological difference expressed in their credit. How long will we keep doing that? enunciated in court. Will the previous the economic situation further deteriorate views, which is not healthy for our What do we have to give up in exchange investigators be questioned on how and the State does not act as a caring democracy. On the Contribution Sociale for this bail-out? There is no such thing as they concluded that Kistnen's death was a presence next to those in need, there is Généralisée (CSG), I regret that no a free lunch in this world. We should be suicide? certainly the possibility of civil unrest. socialist views have been expressed. worried because our leaders have spent We have known death squads in the Authorities have to ensure that basic There is the need for progressive taxation. unwisely on projects of little or no not too distant past. Everyone remembers necessities are available to families where How come the Labour Party is not saying importance: Safe City, Tramway and the the Gorah Issac murders. Azor Adelaide the main breadwinner has lost his/her job. that? Côte d'Or stadium. There is no clear lost his life at the hands of a political hit There is the need for reskilling and This blurring of identities is not a roadmap to regain a position of economic squad as well. It is totally within the realm upskilling, and the Government seems to welcome addition to the political land- strength and that is the real concern. of possibility that aides of politicians with a have understood it in the recent months. scape. However lame someone might be, gargantuan appetite for money or power Let's hope for greater solidarity in the face that he requires the pooling of three * Contd on page 9 Interview Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 9 “After a dreadful first year, the worst, I fear, is yet to come”

* Contd from page 8 * As regards the MIC, nothing has That the hefty surveillance changed to date as regards the opacity “ state cameras failed to surrounding its functioning, the condi- capture crucial footage and that tions attached to its disbursements to "distressed" companies, and now we someone who wanted to reveal how hear that companies which have bene- fraud and corruption were related fited from the MIC's support have paid to the Kistnen case would not even out dividends to their shareholders. It would seem that deep pockets have have his statement recorded in the more political influence, isn't it? diary book are revealing. Our Under the MSM, that would hardly be institutions are failing us. But what surprising. The composition of the MIC are institutions? Institutions are the should have been done in a more intelli- gent manner. Political nominees with men and women that make them. I wobbly track records are ubiquitous in our would hope that they stand up for institutions. Patented historical private what is moral…” sector guys having a say in the spending of our funds seems ludicrous. Socialising the Kistnen case. There is clearly a lack of losses is hardly new in Mauritius. We had seriousness in the way the authorities the stimulus package during the Labour have acted till now. The level of coopera- years. Of course, no one wants to see a tion is not the best we have seen between high unemployment rate in the country but the judiciary and relevant authorities. The there is simply too much opacity in the way fears of tampering are very much justified. funds are being disbursed. old hands both in the government and would get the final say? A serious opposi- Unlike many, I do not idolise the As Aditya Narayan in the 2nd June lawyers purporting to seek justice. I concur 2020 edition of this paper put it: in the opposition to steer the boat to tion is crucial for the good running of a safer waters? democracy. To do without a credible oppo- that there are renowned attention seekers "Just throwing money at existing enter- sition would be a step backwards. that are trying to exist through this case. prises to keep them afloat and preserve It has little to do with age. Seniority But there is only one goal to be pursued: to jobs would be a short-sighted vision. It is does not always mean wisdom. There are * The government's rebuttal to all discover the truth and only one victim, necessary to look at their business model so many good leaders that are young and the allegations levelled in the wake of Kistnen Soopramanien and his family. So and determine whether it is sustainable in performing across the world. Let me add these suspicious deaths is that the we should be careful about what exactly is the long-term. That's where the MIC that youth does not automatically mean opposition and the media are doing being sought. I also find the constant should be a kind of strategic planner who dynamism or talent as well. Have you seen politics. If that is indeed the case, that reminder that this is being done 'pro bono' pushes economic operators towards a some of our new government and opposi- would amount to dangerous politics. vulgar. tion MPs? The people we are looking for How do you react to that? more inclusive and sustainable path of Having said that, I understand the growth, taking into account the need for a are decision makers that can adapt to an Some of the figures in the actual ever-changing environment and that will necessity to draw attention to the many greener economy that is geared towards government had no such qualms when suspicious deaths as the media is doing import substitution, food self-sufficiency not sell them out for the interests of their they peeped into the private lives of their financers. and so are the lawyers who seem to be and energy security." opponents or used suspicious deaths for better informed than anyone else. Will we * In view of the apprehensions But coming back to your question, I fail political gains in the past. If there was no know the truth about the strange deaths regarding the situation that would to see why people from the opposition basis for further investigation, this would during the present regime? It seems prevail next year, would you say the would join forces with a government they be dangerous politics indeed, but there highly unlikely. country would still require experienced, have rightly criticised for months and who seems to be ample ground for suspicion in History Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 10 From the Pages of History - MT 60 Years Ago 4th Year No 155 MAURITIUS TIMES Friday 26 July 1957 l If there be no enemy there's no fight. If no fight, no victory and if no victory there is no crown. -- Thomas Carlyle

your true self, your personality; and to the British boss, a man with a magnetic per- sonality, with a resonant, charming voice, So, you’re coming to Britain... is worth more than the dull, shy graduate who has no opinion of his own!... Peter Pan If you are lucky to get a clerk’s job – and there are very few in London for colo- ever before, I fancy, the influx of nial people – then you can be sure that you colonial people in London has are in for a very dreary and ill-paid job. Nbeen as steady as it has been Most clerks in London, working from 8 or 9 during the past five or six years. a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m. with one hour’s break, do not earn more than £8-10 to £9 and if As a matter of fact, one daily comes you subtract the tax, the insurance, you across thousands of Jamaicans, are not left with a lot of money!... Honestly, Nigerians, West Indians, Indians, if you ever think of coming here to seek a Mauritians, etc., in the most popular job, you should try to learn first electricity, areas of London, to wit, Piccadilly the orthodox way or engineering, or brick- Circus, Oxford Circus, Hyde Park, laying. With such jobs in hand, you can be Madame Tussaud, London Museum, pretty quickly fixed up anywhere in Britain. University of London, Colonial Office, And your weekly wages will be good. Mauritius Bureau, not to speak of places of worldwide repute like By way of conclusion Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, with Big In a large degree, one finds innume- Ben towering high in the air, and the rable advantages in a city like London. Thames flowing by under a grey, dull London, 1957 One can study a host of subjects in sky... evening classes by paying every term a cult for some colonial visitors to be readily gists, technicians, builders, electricians, very moderate fee; one daily has the This influx of people coming from all admitted in State hospitals. etc, than of clerks, bookkeepers – however chance to see good films. If you like clas- corners of the Commonwealth is gradually good the diplomas of the latter might be! causing grave concern to the population How goes the cost of living? sical music, well, every week you’ll have at You’ll be amazed to learn that in Britain and Government of Britain; and so, before It is indeed very hard to give a neat and least a very good concert at the Royal a miner, a bricklayer, a draughtsman, in you come here we would rather brush up straightforward answer to that question, for Festival Hall or at the Convent Garden brief, people engaged in jobs frowned the complete picture for you so that you most people do not fall in the same eco- Opera. If you are quite keen about learning upon at home, earn more there than young might not be too disappointed like so many nomic or social bracket. languages, every evening you can join a – during your short stay here. doctors who work in London hospitals! linguist class to learn Italian or Spanish. Broadly speaking, the bachelor who So, if you are interested in electricity, in But London, or Britain at large, can be Is Britain a really hospitable likes his cigarettes, his drinks, plus some engineering, in the building trade, in prin- a very awkward place for visitors, or colo- fun every weekend, -- cinema, dancing, place? ting, in electronics, in Physics, Chemistry, nial people who are very temperamental. theatre – should be able to live easily on In a large degree, yes. But... But, let us in research work, Britain is the place for On the whole, the Anglo-Saxon is very shy, about £8-10 to £9 per week. Incidentally, add that this hospitality has been of late you; but if you are nothing but a “clerk” very reserved. His xenophobia is today most students have to cope with no more exploited to the full. Apparently too many you’ll find it very hard to get the job you proverbial. His way of reasoning is essen- than £5 to $6 per week. One friend of mine people think that Britain is simply a modern want. tially insular. According to the French confessed that he could not afford more Eldorado where you get everything free of writer, Raymond Las Vergnas, the typical than £4 every week, and by that time he All things being equal, preference will charge: namely the dole, health services, Britisher vis-à-vis the foreigner cannot help was preparing his BSc (Econ)!... be given to the English candidate rather free dentures, glasses, family allowance, than to the foreign or colonial competitor, thinking: “Il est différent, donc il a tort”... The married man, with a wife and one etc. although the latter very often comes along Somehow, London is really unique in or two kids to support, must reckon with a Although one enjoys many benefits with very impressive diplomas. the world. Once you get to know the minimum of about £9-10 to £10 per week. here, yet on the whole one steadily learns Incidentally, most English bosses are not Londoner, the thoroughbred like my friend And if his wife does not work, it can be a that nothing really is obtained free of very interested in diplomas. They all try, at Peter, you’ll find in him a very reliable and real hardship for him to make both ends charge. From personal experience, I know the very first interview, to size you up, by cooperative friend. A friend who will stick to meet, as jobs of £10 per week are hard, that you cannot get glasses or hearing aids assessing your I.Q. (Intelligence Quotient), you through thick and thin... pretty hard to get. unless you pay at least £1 and very often as much as £3 to £4!. The major issue: Jobs! At one time, dentures were issued free This is the moot point! Apparently, most of charge. Today you have to pay for people at home think that it is very easy to same. Health services too are not really get a good, well-paid job in Britain. At one free: you actually pay a nominal charge for time, especially after the War, no doubt each drug prescribed by the doctor on his there were jobs here for one and all – qua- prescription; and very few doctors would lified or not. Today with automation, with prescribe here costly things like rimifon, guided missiles – which have displaced cortisone or tonics like Sanatogen or Neo- thousands in the armed forces and in the Vita. Royal Air Force particularly – with women In the long run, we are afraid that ca- competing with men in most jobs it is cer- sual visitors here will not get free dental tainly not easy overnight to find a good job, treatment, still less specialised treatment a job quite congenial to one’s taste and at Barts or Guy’s hospital for nothing. ability. Why? Simply because most visitors here With the new Industrial Age, Britain is have exploited fully the elastic scheme, so more in need of physicists, chemists, much so that of late it has been fairly diffi- draughtsmen, research workers, metallur- Diaspora Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 11 Spectrum of Mauritian Achievers – Karuna Ramanah & Samila Savomy

t is a well-known fact that After the birth of her daughter, she continued to work all Mauritians who came to part time to support her husband’s photography busi- Ithe United Kingdom have ness at their studio. She was already an experienced made tremendous progress in kindergarten teacher in Mauritius and wanted to pursue one way or another. According her career in Primary Education. Karuna followed a to the Universities and Teaching Assistant course to start her new career in the Colleges Admissions Service school classroom. As she got further experience in this (UCAS), white working-class field, she was inspired to upskill to become a full-time men are 50% less likely to go Learning Support Assistant (LSA). While working as an to university than white wor- LSA, she joined the Mauritius Hindu Association and Kishore Teelenah king-class women. In contrast, helped with the administrative duties for many years. immigrant families tend to take She was promoted to the role of Executive Assistant to advantage of the golden jointly run the society with the committee members. In opportunities to move up in society - something which the meantime she continued to be a strong support for could not have been possible at the time they left the Mauritius Hindu Association in promoting societal Mauritius. They came armed with an unshakable work values and community work. Karuna is also a member of ethic and a willingness to achieve at any cost. This arti- the Mauritius Telegu Association and proud to continue cle gives an account of two Mauritians who have made with her philanthropic activities. Award given by Mauritius Hindu Association to their relatives both in the UK and Mauritius proud. One * * * MTA for their dedication and hard work in their quality that makes these compatriots stand out is their contribution to society. From L to R: Mrs Daya ability to adapt and embrace British society and integrate Appiah, Mrs Rubina Naiker (Chair) and where some others have failed. Education has been Ms Samila Savomy seen as both life-changing and story-changing for them. perience had prepared her to work at a Doctor’s Surgery Karuna Ramanah in Barking, London. In the current Covid-19pandemic, she is at the forefront as a key worker where her know- Karuna is a Mauritian-born lady who came to Britain ledge and practice of health care is of utmost impor- in the late 1990s and like other newcomers, she started tance. from humble beginnings. After getting married, she started a job at McDonald’s fast food restaurant and She had provided voluntary services to the Mauritius gradually worked her way up to become the manager. Telegu Association (MTA) for the past 28 years by She set herself a higher standard by completing a attending their meetings as well as serving as vice-pre- course in English at Level 3. Karuna continued in her sident. She was intensely involved with the administra- employment at McDonald’s at the head office to support tive work. This also included making contacts with hun- her supervisor with administrative duties. dreds of members and non-members in promoting MTA. Part of the duties included monthly prayers in which Samila was quite proactive and well organised. A socie- ty cannot run without funds and her experience and sheer hard work for charity events helped MTA progress further. She is a talented cook and amongst other mem- bers provided meals for prayers and fundraising events. The vibrant celebrations of Mauritius Independence Day, Diwali, Sankranti and other religious ceremonies have been special among British-Mauritians. These Samila Savomy and some of the members of the would not be possible without proper administration and Mauritius Telugu Association planning. As Mauritians love their traditional foods, Samila took a lead in preparing and cooking meals and snacks. Her much appreciated philanthropic work has been very useful to to several societies in support of the Samila Savomy Mauritian communities. She has been a member of the Samila left Mauritius for Britain in late 1980s after Mauritius Telegu Association for 28 years and dedicated getting married. She had already successfully com- her time wisely while being a caring mother. Her relent- pleted her School Leaving Certificate from Mauritius and less charity work was also shared with a Tamil after arriving in London, she pushed herself to do further Association where she supported the chair with adminis- studies. She started with a secretarial course at Pitman trative work and organising prayers and food. College in Holborn. Samila went on to take two short courses in First Aid and Childcare. While appreciating Mauritian-born Kishore Teelanah, Section the value of hard work and endurance, she pursued a Manager for Science Further and Higher Education study in Critical Thinking and Analysis at the University (London), has over 34 years of experience in of East London. teaching, learning and education management in In 1989, she worked as Housing Administrator dea- Science having worked in many educational ling with housing applications, recording the statistics of establishments at different levels. He has a income and expenditures. By 2008, Samila used her special interest in Biomedical Sciences in mathematics skill to work as an Account Assistant in a such subjects as cancer and diabetes. He is Nursing Care Home, collating all payments for the also a mentor to final year Bioscience degree Karuna Ramanah receiving an Achievement Award for students at Kingston University. contribution to Mauritius Hindu Association Society Finance Director. After five years, her skills and ex- The Conversation Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 12 Coronavirus: how the pandemic could play out in 2021

* Cont. from page 2 Looking further ahead How will the pandemic unfold? Can vaccination lead to eradication of After people have had Covid-19 (or the virus? We don’t yet know how long received a vaccine), they become immune vaccine-based immunity lasts – and long- (at least in the short term). Those infected term immunity will be key. Fully eradicating later then increasingly have contact with the virus will be very difficult and will immune people rather than susceptible require a global effort. ones. Transmission therefore falls and While we’ve got close to eradicating eventually the disease stops spreading – polio, smallpox remains the only human this is known as herd immunity. disease we’ve fully stamped out, and this The level of immunity across the popu- took almost 200 years. Measles, for exam- ple, although nearly eradicated in many lation needed to stop the virus spreading countries, keeps coming back. isn’t precisely known. It’s thought to be between 60% and 80%. We’re currently Some vaccines, like measles, give nowhere near that – meaning billions nearly lifelong protection, whereas others around the world will need to be vacci- need to be repeated, like tetanus. If Covid- nated to stop the virus spreading. 19 mutates regularly and significantly – and its potential to do so has just been This also relies on vaccines preventing Photo - politico.com demonstrated – we may need to take new transmission of the virus, which hasn’t yet vaccines periodically, like we do for flu. In been proved. If it is, we’ll see a decline in reduce the death rate, but serious illness ment. the long term, we would also need to vac- Covid-19 cases, perhaps as early as spring and long Covid affecting younger people cinate children to maintain herd immunity. 2021. However, lockdowns and other In time, travel will hopefully become would likely persist. measures will still be needed to limit trans- more straightforward, though airlines might The social and economic effects of the mission while vaccination builds up popula- What’s likely to change? start requiring vaccination certificates. pandemic will probably be long-lasting too. Although some countries require vaccina- Perhaps life will never return to what it was tion immunity – particularly wherever the Vaccines aren’t a silver bullet – some tion against yellow fever for entry, requiring before. But it is up to us to make it safer by more infectious strain of the virus has level of precaution will need to be main- immunity passports for Covid-19 is likely to being better prepared for future pan- taken hold. tained for months. In areas where the high- prove contentious. demics. In contrast, if the vaccine only prevents ly infectious strain is rampant, high-level infected individuals from becoming se- restrictions may last until vaccine roll-out Mask wearing might become a social riously ill, we will be left relying on infec- has finished. Any changes will come slow- habit globally as it is now in Asia – for Adam Kleczkowski - tions to build up herd immunity. In this sce- ly, primarily in the area of care home visits example when somebody is not feeling University of Strathclyde nario, vaccinating the vulnerable would and reopening hospitals for regular treat- well or is concerned for their health. 2021: Sources to watch

Samad Ramoly

Global Politics: Kishore Mahbubani, Fareed Zakaria…

Global Capitalism: Rana Foroohar, Mohamed el-Erian, iconoclast central banker Andy Haldane (Sign of the times: an outlying white European male)...

Global Identities: Pankaj Mishra, Achille Mbembe...

Global Whatever: The one & only Nassim Taleb…

Global Policies: Usual suspect Singapore, fast learner South Korea, women-led Finland…

Additions welcome. Unwind Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29 , 2020 13 Funny Jokes for New Year

hat happened to the Irish man who thought about Wthe evils of drinking in the New Year? He gave up thinking. Women get a little more excited about New Year's Eve than men do. It's like an excuse: you drink too much, you make a lot of promises you're not going to keep; the next morning as soon as you wake up you start breaking them. WIFE says: No, it means 'With Idiot for For men, we just call that a date. Ever' On New Year's Eve, Marilyn stood up in the local pub Happy New Year 2021 and said that it was time to get ready. At the stroke of * * * midnight, she wanted every husband to be standing next to the one person who made his life worth living. Well, it New Year's Eve One-liners was kind of embarrassing. As the clock struck, the bartender was almost crushed to death. A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one A friend asks his friend 4 a cigrtte. His friend says year and out the other. I think u made a Nw Yr resolution 2 quit smoking. My new year's resolution is to be more optimistic by keeping my cup half-full with either rum, vodka, or Da man says. I am in da process of quitting. Right now whiskey. I am in da middle of phase 1. What's phase 1? My New Year's resolution is to stop hanging out with I've quit buying people who ask me about my New Year's resolutions. On New Year's Eve, Daniel was in no shape to drive, If your born in September, it's pretty safe to assume so he sensibly left his van in the car park and walked your parents started out the New Year with a Bang! home. As he was wobbling along, he was stopped by a I have only one resolution. To rediscover the difference policeman. 'What are you doing out here at four o'clock in between wants and needs. May I have all I need and want the morning?' asked the police officer. all I have. Happy New Year! 'I'm on my way to a lecture,' answered Roger. If 2020 was a person, I'd sue him for pain and can turn thoughts into speech. I have had that for years, 'And who on earth, in their right mind, is going to give suffering and lost wages. it's called alcohol. a lecture at this time on New Year's Eve?' enquired the Dear Luck, .....can we be friends in 2021 please? Keep the smile, Leave the tear, Hold the laugh, Leave constable sarcastically. the pain, Think of joy, Forget the fear. Be joyous, cause it's I raised my left leg before the ball dropped so I could 'My wife,' slurred Daniel grimly. start the New Year off on the right foot. a New Year. New Year's is just a holiday created by Jemima was taking an afternoon nap on New Year's calendar companies who don't want you reusing last In 2020, may your neighbours respect you, troubles Eve before the festivities. After she woke up, she confided year's calendar. neglect you, angels protect you, and may all your troubles to Max, her husband, 'I just dreamed that you gave me a last as long as your New Year resolutions. I'm actually feeling pretty okay about not diamond ring for a New Year's present. What do you think accomplishing anything this year. My 2021 resolution is Dear God, my prayer for 2021 is a FAT bank account it all means?' for everyone else to gain the 50 pounds I refuse to lose. and a THIN body. 'Aha, you'll know tonight,' answered Max smiling I was going to quit drinking for the new year, but then broadly. Many things can be preserved in alcohol this New I remembered no one likes a quitter. It's officially New Year Years Eve. DIGNITY is not one of them. At midnight, as the New Year was chiming, Max Eve, you only have a couple of hours to do all the things approached Jemima and handed her small package. Every year I make a resolution to change myself...... you will resolve not to do in the new year. Delighted and excited she opened it quickly. There in her this year making a resolution to be myself! I'm planning on hand rested a book entitled: 'The meaning of dreams'. finding new and interesting things to hate about my job in There have been many times in 2020, when I have 2021. annoyed you, distubed you, irritated you, and bugged Husband asks: Do you know the meaning of WIFE. the hell out of you....today I just wanna tell you I plan to Just heard that in 2020 there will be a new device that It means, 'Without Information Fighting Every time' continue in 2021! Quotable Quotes t is not very difficult to sacrifice every- Locks are never manufactured without Ithing for people you love. a key. There are no problems without But it's very difficult to find people, who solutions. Only we need to have patience respect your sacrifice. to unlock them! * * * * * * No matter how many times the teeth People will question all the good things bite the tongue, but still they stay & work they hear about you… but they believe all together... the bad things without a second thought. That's the spirit of forgiveness and That's life. relationship. * * * * * * Disappointments are like road humps. Pages of yesterday cannot be revised, but the pages of today and tomorrow are They slow you down a bit but you enjoy blank. the smooth road afterwards. You hold the pen, make it an inspiring Don't stay on the humps too long, move story. on... Always believe best is yet to come. * * * * * * People are so unpredictable... Even if Confidence doesn't come when you you live your life as an open book, people have all the answers. But it comes when will still wonder which pages have secret you are ready to face all the questions. messages. Wellness Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 14 Happiness Hacks 20 things you can do in 2021 to make it the best year of your life We know 2020 has been hard because we haven't 2020 has been particularly hard, and it has taught us some important been able to meet so many of our friends in person! But, lessons. How about stepping into 2021 with this checklist of how to stay in the coming year, how about taking precautions and stepping out to see a friend or two in the neighbourhood? content and feel happy? We think it's a great plan! There's also a study by Fowler and Christakis that suggests that a happy friend who lives within half a kilometre of your house, makes you 42 per cent more likely to be happy too. 12. Spend money on experiences There's no denying that it is fun to spend money on buying that latest gadget or that outfit you've been eyeing for a long time. But, the amount of satisfaction you get when spending on experiences is completely different. 13. Give hugs This is the best thing to happen to humans! When you hug a person, your body releases the cuddle chemical, oxytocin. That's why you end up feeling happy! It is a hormone that is linked to social bonding, fostering trust and loyalty. Moreover, a hug also lowers your blood pres- sure and helps you release anxiety. So, hug away to glory. 14. Eat a prolonged dinner We understand life is tough, and there's a lot that needs to be juggled during the day. But, how about giving yourself some time at night, maybe during dinner? Spend an hour by yourself, or enjoy the meal with your family as here's no doubt that we've all gone through a lot this We are always hustling, and unfortunately, our culture you share the stories of the day. It won't just make you feel Tpast year. A global crisis literally took over our lives at glorifies that. We are never really told to slow down, but great, but the effect will also pass on to your family. the beginning of 2020, confining us to our homes almost guess what? That's equally important. Practising medita- 15. Keep a gratitude journal the entire year. This is something we couldn't have tion for about 15 to 20 minutes every day is a healthy Write about the best things that have happened to you imagined, even in our wildest dreams. In hindsight, it has practice. In fact, research shows that our brain releases during the course of the day in a journal. It will train your also taught us a lot of important lessons - of being an anti-anxiety chemical called GABA when we practice mind to find positivity on tough days. mindful, living in the moment, and never taking anything meditation or yoga. A study in the Journal of Alternative 16. Get enough sleep for granted. and Complementary Medicine found there is a 27 per cent A good 7 to 8 hours of sleep is essential for your As we march ahead into the next year, let's learn a few increase in GABA levels after an hour of meditation. contentment. When you don't sleep enough, your things that will provide us with contentment and long- 6. Eat breakfast hippocampus (the seat of pleasant and neutral memories lasting joy. Here are 21 things to do in 2021 to make it the Most of us are in such a hurry every morning that we in your brain) doesn't function properly. As a result, best year yet: forget to eat breakfast, and end up feeling 'hangry. Well, your sleep-deprived brain tends to recall fewer positive 1. Wake up naturally how about enjoying a nourishing meal packed with your memories and a higher number of negative memories. You might think of it as a strange suggestion. I mean, favourite foods every morning? It will help you look 17. Drink water is it even possible to wake up without an alarm clock? forward to something, and at the same time, give you a Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning when Well, it is. Practise a routine of sleeping on time and boost of energy. you wake up. In fact, keep drinking water at regular inter- waking up at the same hour every day. That's how your 7. Get into the habit of reading vals throughout the day. Research says that those who biorhythm should works, with no alarms to jolt you out of With dwindling attention spans these days, most drink "more than enough" water consider themselves very your slumber. Wake up naturally and start your day with a people find reading 'very boring'. It really isn't, though! Get happy, as compared to those who don't. That's because positive mood. a book from your favourite genre, slip into the quilt, and even a mere 1.5 per cent loss of body fluid can cause 2. Begin every morning with a smile sip on some hot chocolate as you immerse yourself in a fatigue, anxiety, headaches and an unwillingness to take We know life can take over, and it might feel like an different world. up challenging tasks. ordeal to smile the first thing every morning, but push 8. Focus on one task 18. Take a free online course yourself to do it. Tell yourself it's going to be a day full of We function on auto-pilot mode and perform tasks 2020 has opened up several avenues to brush up on happiness and contentment, and have a wide smile on mechanically, often juggling several things at a time. your skills and gain knowledge, that too without spending your face. It might sound silly, but trust us, it will really set Well, the key is to focus on one task at a time. Multitasking a penny. Take free online courses on various websites the tone for the day ahead! actually affects your focus and causes stress. and you'll feel so empowered. In turn, you are more likely 3. Exercise daily 9. Take an afternoon nap to feel content. Do whatever that makes you move - it could be Taking an afternoon nap can be extremely helpful in 19. Volunteer dancing, jumping on the spot, or going for a run with your boosting your mood. At the same time, it ensures Volunteering your time is a great way to help others favourite music playing through your earphones. Make "improved alertness and performance without interfering and feel content at the same time. Whether it's an old age sure you're incorporating 20 minutes of exercise every with your night-time sleep." Research also shows home or an animal shelter, there are many places that single day for your dose of happy hormones. that when you do not take a nap in the day, you become could benefit from a helping hand. 4. Sing in the shower sensitive to negative emotions. 20. Try your hand at gardening Haven't we all felt a sense of happiness when we 10. Call your friends One of the new activities to try out in 2021 could be come out of a nice shower after belting out our favourite How about catching up with a few friends over a nice, gardening. Scientists have discovered that the mycobac- song? Oh, and while you are at it, don't forget to put on warm conversation? There's nothing like venting out or terium found in soil can improve brain function while your best-scented body wash. Well, it is believed that our feeling nostalgic when you share memories. It's a great boosting moods. The mycobacterium vaccae found in the favourite aromas have pleasant olfactory memories feeling and makes you feel so comfy. According to a study soil increases serotonin produced in the brain. So, by associated with them that make us feel blissful. Now, published by the British Medical Journal in December getting your hands dirty, you'll actually feel happy! that's a good enough reason to enjoy a warm shower and 2008 by Harvard University, happy friends increase our Try out these 20 things and make 2021 a year full of de-stress! happiness by 15.3 per cent! positivity! 5. Practise meditation 11. Meet some friends in person Geetika Sachdev Entertainment Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 15 From '83 to Laal Singh Chaddha, top 10 Bollywood movies to watch in 2021 As the entertainment industry reels from the Covid-19 pandemic, the year 2021 may offer hope for filmmakers and theatre owners, reports Business Standard hile 2020 has turned out to be a dark, forgettable Wyear for the Hindi film industry because of Covid-19, there is some hope that 2021 will turn out to be different with a large number of films -both small and big-budget ones - will find their way to theatre screens across India and abroad. One notable thing about 2020 was how Bollywood quickly moved on as projects were stalled and many jobs were lost during the lockdown. From shootings being halted to postponing release dates, the entertainment industry saw it all and is ready to return to the silver screen with much-awaited projects. Here are the top 10 Bollywood movies to watch out for in 2021: 1. '83 Directed by Kabir Khan, '83 is a movie on India's 5. Brahmastra Pankaj Kapur. historic Cricket World Cup win in 1983. The sports drama The much-anticipated movie was scheduled to release 9. Laal Singh Chaddha stars Ranveer Singh in the role of team captain, Kapil Dev, in December 2020 but the pandemic forced a postpone- Aamir Khan will return to the silver screen as Laal and is slated to release in 2021. It was earlier scheduled ment. After Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, this is Ayan Singh Chaddha in the Hindi adaptation of the Tom Hanks to be out in April 2020. Mukherji's first project after 7 years. The movie has stellar starrer Forrest Gump. Forrest Gump was released in 1994 2. Sooryavanshi actors starring Amitabh Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Alia Bhatt. The dates are not confirmed yet but hopefully, and is recognised as a classic. The movie was adapted for The movie is a part of Rohit Shetty's Singham it will release hopefully release in 2021, having been a Hindi remake by actor-writer Atul Kulkarni. Previously franchise and was a much awaited movie slated to delayed for long already. scheduled for release on Christmas 2020, the film's release in 2020. Now the makers have decided to release has now been pushed to Christmas 2021 as the 6. Pathan schedule it for the first quarter of 2021. The movie has shooting couldn't be completed on time because of the Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif in lead roles. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and pandemic. 3. Thalaivi John Abraham, Pathan is slated to release on Diwali 2021. The movie is directed by Siddhartha Anand and the 10. Gangubai Kathiawadi Starring Kangana Ranaut in the lead role, the shooting shooting has begun for the action-revenge flick. Another movie that was supposed to release this year, of Thalaivi was wrapped up on December 12. Following the Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed biopic is now slated the pack-up, Ranaut wrote on Twitter, "And it's a wrap, 7. Atrangi Re for 2021 if all goes well. The shooting for the movie today we successfully completed the filming of our most Slated to release in 2021, the movie is directed by resumed in October and stars Alia Bhatt as Gangubai ambitious project Thalaivi - the revolutionary leader, rarely Anand L Rai and stars Akshay Kumar, Sara Ali Khan, and Kathiawadi, apparently one the most dreaded character in an actor finds a character that comes alive in flesh and Dhanush. The movie will see Khan romancing Kumar and Mumbai's underworld. blood and I fall in love so hard but now suddenly it's time Dhanush in two timelines set in Bihar and Tamil Nadu, to say bye, mixed feelings." The movie is directed by AL according to media reports. Vijay and also features Arvind Swami and Prakash Raj. 8. Jersey 4. Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai Finally, all the Shahid Kapoor fans can finally sigh in Directed by Prabhu Deva, the action-drama got relief. Directed by Gowtam Tinnamuri, Jersey is a Telugu- Salman Khan and Disha Patani in leading roles. The remake that will release in 2021. The shooting was shooting was wrapped up in October and most probably wrapped in 47 days during the pandemic. Kapoor will be will release on Eid 2021. seen playing the character of a cricketer and will also star Entertainment Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 16 Top 9 highest-paid Indian television actresses of 2020

episode but now her pay- roles in Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii and Bade Achhe Lagte check has been increased to Hain. Sakshi Tanwar debuted in Indian TV industry with Rs 100,000 per episode. Albela Sur Mela in 1998 but she rose to fame with her Surbhi Jyoti portrayal of Parvati Agarwal in the soap opera, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii. In December 2012, she made a second One of the most sought appearance on Amitabh Bachchan's TV reality show Kaun after actresses of Hindi TV Banega Crorepati. industry, Surbhi is well known for her roles of Zoya Besides TV shows, Sakshi appeared in Aamir Khan's in Qubool Hai and Naagrani film Dangal wherein she played Daya Kaur, wife of former Bela in Naagin 3. She started wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat (played by Aamir Khan), her acting career with who trains his daughters to be world-class wrestlers regional theatre and films. against social odds. Apart from working in She is the only TV actress who has always been in the Hindi TV shows, Surbhi Jyoti list of top 10 actresses of the TV industry. Sakshi, who has has worked in Punjabi hosted many reality shows such as 'Crime Patrol', 'Code movies Ik Kudi Punjab Di, Red' and 'Tyohaar Ki Thaali' reportedly takes home almost Hina Divyanka Tripathi Jennifer Winget Raula Pai Gaya and Munde Rs 125,000 to Rs 150,000 per episode. Khan Patiala De. According to Krystle D'souza reports, following Naagin 3, ndian television shows are considered to be one of the Ibiggest sources of entertainment for the audience. Surbhi has become quite a Nowadays, there are several Indian TV shows or serials famous actress and appa- that are giving tough competition to the Hindi film industry. rently earns Rs 70,000 to Rs Many TV actresses have gained global recognition thanks 75,000 per episode. Notably, to the immense popularity of their shows. According to Jyoti is also the brand reports, many such actresses are being paid far greater ambassador of Reliance than several Bollywood actresses. Jewels. You must be wondering, how much popular TV Asha Negi actresses earn for a single episode or a show. Without Asha Negi is one of the any further ado, let's talk about the top 9 highest paid most popular and talented Hindi television actresses of 2020. Hindi TV actresses. She Hina Khan earned fame and recognition for her characters of her Hina Khan is one of the most popular faces of the roles in the shows Pavitra Indian TV industry. The popular actress is known for her Rishta as Purvi, Ek Mutthi characters Akshara in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and Aasmaan as Kalpana, Kuch Komolika in Kasautii Zindagii Kay. Apart from acting, she Toh Hai Tere Mere participated in Salman Khan's reality TV show, Bigg Boss Darmiyaan as Koyal. Asha 11 and emerged as the first runner up in 2017. took part in the Indian dance reality show Nach Baliye 6 Kasautii Zingadii Zay was one of the highest genera- Nia Sharma Krystle D'souza Drashti Dhami ting TRP shows of all time. According to reports, Hina along with her partner Rithvik Khan gets paid a whopping sum of Rs 150,000 to Rs Dhanjani in 2014. 200,000 per episode. Negi began her career as a model in 2009 after she Krystle D'Souza is one of the most sought after Divyanka Tripathi won the title of Miss Uttarkhand 2009 during her college actresses of Indian TV shows. She is known for her roles days. Later she auditioned for her first TV show in 2010 Divyanka Tripathi is a popular TV actress, who made Jeevika Vadhera in Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai with the popular show Sapnon Se Bhare Naina playing the her acting debut in the TV industry for Doordarshan. She and Sakshi in Ek Nayi Pehchaan. D'Souza debuted her role as Madhura. Post her first TV show, she appeared on earned nation-wide fame and recognition with Zee TV's acting career when she was in college. the Balaji Telefilms series Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, where drama fiction Banoo Main Teri Dulhann by playing the she played the negative role, Apeksha Malhotra. The actress had started her acting career with Kahe dual roles of Vidya, an orphan and illiterate girl, and Divya, Na Kahe in the year 2007, and later she appeared in a modern and literate girl. According to reports, she gets paid a sum of Rs 75,000 several other shows. Krystle gained fame and recognition to Rs 80,000 per episode. Due to her outstanding acting, she won many awards with Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, which also including the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Nia Sharma featured Nia Sharma. Actress in Drama Category and the Indian Telly Award for Nia Sharma is undoubtedly one of the most popular Talking about her remuneration, Krystle D'Souza Fresh New Face. Divyanka Tripathi is currently known for Hindi TV actresses of recent time. She has worked in apparently charges around Rs 55,000 to Rs60,000 for one playing the character of Dr Ishita Bhalla in Yeh Hai many Indian TV shows but popularly known for portraying episode. Mohabbatein. Besides acting, Divyanka Tripathi hosted the lead roles of Anu in Kaali - Ek Agnipariksha, Manvi in Drashti Dhami several award shows and she has been a part of dance Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, Roshni in Jamai Raja reality show 'Nach Baliye 8'. She apparently charges a and Aarohi Kashyap in Ishq Mein Marjawan. Drashti Dhami is a well known Indian model and TV whopping amount of Rs 80,000-85,000 per episode. actress. She is popularly known for her portrayal of Geet Besides TV shows, Nia Sharma has also been a part in Geet - Hui Sabse Parayi, Madhubala in Madhubala - Ek Jennifer Winget of Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi in 2017 and web series Ishq Ek Junoon, and Nandini in Silsila Badalte Rishton Ka. Jennifer Winget is one of the most beautiful and Twisted. She was ranked second in the Top 50 Sexiest In 2013, Dhami won Colors TV's Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 6 talented Hindi TV actresses. She is popularly known for Asian Women 2017 list published by British-based along with choreographer Salman Yusuff Khan. Before her roles Kumud Desai in Saraswatichandra, Maya Eastern Eye newspaper. According to reports, she appearing in TV shows, Dhami started her career in Mehrotra in Beyhadh and Zoya Siddiqui in Bepannah. takes home a sum of Rs 75,000 to Rs 80,000 for shooting a single episode. modelling with print and television advertisements. Jennifer Winget made her acting debut as a child actor Now, Drashti has become one of the top actresses, when she was merely 12-year old in Raja Ko Rani Se Sakshi Tanwar who has a huge fan following across the globe. As per the Pyar Ho Gaya. Later, as an adult, she went on to work in Sakshi Tanwar is one of the most experienced and buzz, Drashti charges around Rs 65, 000 to Rs 70,000 per scores of Indian TV shows. According to reports, earlier highest-paid Hindi TV actresses. She is known for her episode. the actress was being paid Rs 80.000 to Rs 85,000 per Watch’s On Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 17

Mardi 22 Dec - 21.05 La Grande Muraille Avec: Matt Damon, Jing Tian, Pedro Pascal MBC 1 MBC 2 MBC 3 Cine 12 Bollywood TV 07.00 D.Anime: Teenie Weenie 07.00 DDI Live 06.00 Mag: Eco@Africa 01.15 Film: Hollows Grove 08.00 Film: Raanjhanaa 07.39 D.Anime: Little Spirou 10.00 Serial: CID 06.26 Mag: Arts And Culture 02.35 Serial: Counterpart 11.55 / 19.54 - 09.01 D.Anime: The Hive 10.43 Serial: Ye Vaada Raha 07.00 Mag: Voa Connected 03.25 Film: Love Over Distance Kahan Hum Kahan Tuam 09.50 Magazine: Origami 12.04 Film: Naqab 08.00 Doc: Amazing Gardens 04.55 Tele: Totalement Diva 12.23 / 20.11 - 10.00 Serial: Heidi, Bienvenida Starring: A.K. Agnihotri, Rakesh 08.53 Doc: 360 GEO 05.48 Serial: L.A’S Finest Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala 12.00 Le Journal Bedi, Rita Bhaduri 10.02 Global 3000 06.37 Film: Bleeding Steel 12.44 / 20.32 Radha Krishna 12.25 Tele: Le Prix Du Désir 15.00 Mag: Comedy Classes 11.29 Mag: Eco@Africa 09.00 Serial: Mission: Impossible 13.09 / 21.09 - Sanjivani 12.55 Doc: Foodland - Christmas.. 15.21 Serial: Honaar Soon Mee... 11.59 Mag: Arts And Culture 09.48 Tele: Soleil Levant 13.29 / 21.24 - Zindagi Ki Mehek 14.16 Local: Artizan 15.43 Serial: Mooga Manasulu 12.25 Mag: Voa Connected 10.36 Tele: Tanto Amor 13.52 / 21.46 - 14.30 D.Anime: Astrolology 16.06 Serial: Apoorva Raagangal 12.52 Mag: Urban Gardens 11.00 Serial: Counterpart Bade Acche Lagte Hai 14.54 D.Anime: Les Triples 16.32 Serial: Tu Ishq Hai 12.59 Mag: In Good Shape 12.00 Film: Love Over Distance 14.12 / 21.59 - 15.06 D.Anime: Sissi, Jeune... 16.50 Serial: Achra Ke Moti 13.28 Doc: Amazing Gardens 13.30 Tele: Totalement Diva Jai Kanhaiya Lal Ki 15.40 Film: Toys & Pets 17.11 Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala 14.36 Doc: 360 GEO 14.48 Film: Marrying Mr. Darcy 14.32 / 22.25 - 17.20 Serial: Backstage 18.00 Serial: Bloody Romance 15.28 Mag: Global 3000 16.28 Serial: Mission: Impossible Ikyawann 18.00 Live: Samachar 18.30 DDi Magazine 16.20 Doc: The Wonderful World... 17.16 Serial: L.A.’s Finest 15.20 Film: Mera Haque 18.30 Serial: Jamai Raja 20.00 Tamil Programme 17.06 Mag: Eco@Africa 18.05 Tele: Soleif Levant Starring: Sanjay Dutt, Anita 19.30 Journal & La Meteo 20.30 Film: Mughal-E-Azam 18.26 Doc: The Daughter Of... 19.10 Tele: Tanto Amor Raj, Bindu 20.10 Local: Priorite Sante Starring: Prithviraj Kapoor, 18.55 Mag: Check In 20.05 Tele: Le Prix Du Désir 18.00 Live: Samacher 20.40 Local: MBC Prod Dilip Kumar, Madhubala 19.36 Mag: Made In Germany 20.30 Serial: L.A.’s Finest 18.30 Kundali Bhagya

mardi 29 decembre 21.05 Film: Cup Of Love 23.23 DDI Live 20.07 Doc: Builders Of The Future 21.15 Film: La Grande Muraille 18.51 Ek Rishta Saajhedari Ka 23.00 Le Journal 20.32 Mag: Sur Mesure 23.01 Tele: Totalement Diva

06.30 Local: Sur Prise 10.00 Serial: Pyar Ka Dard Meetha 06.00 Mag: Rev: The Global Auto... 01.10 Film: La Grande Muraille 08.00 Film: Mera Haque 07.00 D. Anime: Teenie Weenie 11.16 Serial: Suhani Si Ek Ladki 06.26 Mag: Foodland 03.11 Serial: Counterpart 12.04 / 20.06 - 09.50 D. Anime: Astrolology 12.00 Film: Payal Ki Jhankaar 06.39 Doc: The Daughter Of... 0404 Film: Trollie Kahan Hum Kahan Tuam 12.00 Le Journal Stars: Alankar Joshi, Roobini, 07.41 Mag: Made In Germany 05.30 Tele: Totalement Diva 12.23 / 20.26 - 12.55 Doc: Foodland Surinder Kaur 08.32 Mag: Sur Mesure 06.22 Serial: L.A’S Finest Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala 13.00 Local: Groov’in 13.54 Mag: DDI Magazine 10.02 Local: Klip Seleksion 07.16 Film: Cup Of Love 12.47 / 20.46 Radha Krishna 14.05 Mag: Word On The Street 15.00 Serial: Comedy Classes 11.29 Mag: Rev: The Global Auto... 09.00 Serial: Mission: Impossible 13.09 / 21.09 - Sanjivani 14.30 D.Anime: Astrolology 15.21 Honaar Soon Mee Hya... 12.09 Doc: The Daughter Of... 09.49 Tele: Soleil Levant 13.31 / 21.31 - Zindagi Ki Mehek Mercredi 30 Dec - 21.15 14.42 D.Anime: The Garfield Show 15.44 Mooga Manasulu 12.34 Mag: Check In 10.35 Tele: Tanto Amor 13.54 / 21.46 - 14.54 D.Anime: The Hive 16.10 Apoorva Raagangal 13.05 Mag: Urban Gardens 11.00 Serial: Counterpart Bade Acche Lagte Hai Ex Machina 15.35 D.Anime: Rev & Roll, Amis... 16.30 Serial: Tu Ishq Hai 13.29 Mag: Made In Germany 12.00 Film: Trollie 14.20 / 21.59 - Jai Kanhaiya Lal.. 15.49 Film: Rock Dog 16.48 Achra Ke Moti 13.38 Doc: Builders Of The Future 13.30 Tele: Totalement Diva 14.36 / 22.25 - Ikyawann 16.05 Film: Penguin Land 17.12 Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala 14.16 Doc: Revolte Dans La Mode 14.48 Film: Cup Of Love 15.30 Film: Phata Poster Nikhla 17.17 D.Anime: Astrolology 17.33 Serial: Kulvadhu 15.11 Mag: Close Up 16.29 Serial: Mission: Impossible Hero 17.15 Serial: Backstage 18.00 Serial: Bloody Romance 16.34 Doc: The Digital Age 17.17 Serial: L.A.’S Finest Starring: Shahid Kapoor,Ileana 17.45 Doc: Foodland - Christmas... 18.30 Serial: DDI Magazine 17.17 Mag: Rev: The Global Auto... 18.05 Tele: Soleil Levant D'Cruz 18.00 Live: Samachar 19.00 Live: Zournal Kreol 17.46 Mag: Shift 19.00 Tele: Tanto Amor 18.00 Live: Samachar 18.30 Serial: Jamai Raja 19.30 DDI Magazine 18.00 Mag: Motorweek 20.05 Tele: Le Prix Du Désir 18.30 Kumkum Bhagya 19.30 Journal & La Meteo 20.00 Programme In Marathi 18.57 Mag: Arts.21 20.30 Serial: Beauty And The Beast 18.51 Ek Rishta Saajhedari Ka 20.20 Prod: Variason 2021 21.00 Film: Kickboxer Against... 19.23 Doc: Garden Party 21.15 Film: Ex Machina 19.13 Mere Angne Mein 21.23 Film: Crooked Arrows Starring: Sherman 'Big Train' 20.45 Doc: Foodland 23.03 Tele: Totalement Diva 19.37 Serial: Yeh Pyaar Nahi

mercredi 30 decembre 23.08 Le Journal Bergman, Jay W. Jensen Toh Kya Hai

06.00 Local: Klip Seleksion 10.00 Karm Phal Data Shani 06.00 Mag: Motorweek 01.24 Film: Ex Machina 08.00 Film: Phata Poster Nikhla 06.45 Entrepreneuriat Au Feminin 12.05 Film: Khuda Gawah 06.25 Mag: Vous Et Nous 03.12 Serial: Counterpart Hero 09.40 D. Anime: Astrolology Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, 06.56 Mag: Arts.21 04.02 Film: Terminator 3 12.03 / 19.54 - 10.00 Serial: Heidi, Bienvenida A... Akkineni Nagarjuna, Sridevi 07.22 Mag: Urban Gardens 05.51 Tele: Totalement Diva Kahan Hum Kahan Tuam 11.10 Tele: Au Nom De L’amour 15.00 Serial: Comedy Classes 08.27 Mag: Vue D’en Haut 06.44 Serial: Beauty And The Beast 12.26 / 20.11 - 12.00 Le Journal 15.21 Honaar Soon Mee Hya 10.52 Doc: Dark Eden 07.25 Film: Crooked Arrows Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala 12.25 Tele: Le Prix Du Désir Gharchi 12.00 Mag: Vous Et Nous 09.00 Serial: Mission: Impossible 12.47 / 20.32 Radha Krishna 12.46 Doc: Foodland - Christmas... 15.43 Mooga Manasulu 13.38 Mag: Tendance XXI 09.48 Tele: Soleil Levant 13.09 / 21.09 - Sanjivani 13.51 Local: Zanfan Nou Zil 16.12 Apoorva Raagangal 14.04 Mag: Vue D’en Haut 10.35 Tele: Tant Amor 13.31 / 21.24 - Zindagi Ki Mehek 14.33 D.Anime: Astrolology 16.40 Serial: Tu Ishq Hai 14.29 Doc: Foodland 11.00 Serial: Counterpart 13.56 / 21.46 - 15.10 D.Anime: The Hive 17.03 Serial: Achra Ke Moti 14.45 Doc: Tarzan, Aux Sources... 12.00 Film: Alpha Bade Acche Lagte Hai 15.09 D.Anime: Les Triples 17.22 Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala 18.00 Mag: Eco India 13.37 Tele: Totalement Diva 14.20 / 21.59 - 15.16 D.Anime: Sissi, Jeune... 17.44 Local: Amrit Vaani 20.00 Doc: Oak Tree 14.43 Film: Crooked Arrows Jai Kanhaiya Lal Ki 16.05 Film: Moi, Moche Et Méchant 18.14 Serial: Bloody Romance 20.45 Doc: Foodland 16.40 Serial: Mission: Impossible 14.36 / 22.25 - 17.22 Serial: Backstage 18.30 Serial: Ghar Pahucha Da 21.00 Local: New (English) 17.23 Serial: Beauty And The Beast Ikyawann 18.00 Live: Samachar Devi Maiya 21.10 Doc: Michael Jackson 18.05 Tele: Soleil Levant 15.14 Kundali Bhagya 18.30 Jamai Raja 20.00 Local: Retrovizer 22.03 Doc: Fresh Fruit Fakers 19.00 Tele: Tanto Amor 15.35 Ek Rishta Saajhed Jeudi 31 Dec - 21.15 18.55 Local: Chaar Dham Tirth... 22.54 Doc: Neuschwanstein 20.08 Tele: Le Prix Du Désir 16.00 Mere Angne Mein 19.30 Le Journal 23.37 Doc: Master Of Engineering 20.30 Serial: Beauty And The Beast 16.23 Yeh Pyaar Nahi Toh Kya...

Avec: Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, jeudi 31 decembre 20.30 Local: Au Revoir 2020 00.28 Mag: Eco India 21.15 Film: Jumanji 18.30 Film: Padmaavat Kevin Hart 00.54 Mag: Shift 23.14 Tel: Totelement Diva 21.06 Kahan Hum Kahan Tum

Stars: Deepika Padukone,Shahid Mercredi 30 Dec - 15.30 Stars: Shahid Kapoor,Ileana D'Cruz Jeudi 31 Dec - 18.30 Kapoor,Ranveer Singh Other Voices Mauritius Times Tuesday, December 29, 2020 18 Breakfast With Bwana Crystal-Gazing 2021

out of Afghanistan. With US troops gone, ty and hunger and will face a backlash as a blood bath in Afghanistan is highly like- its infrastructure "loans" become unsus- ly. Whether Afghanistan again puts out the tainable burdens. welcome mat for terrorists is the inevitable The nations of Latin America present risk that the exit strategy entails. their own challenges. Covid-19 in Brazil The rest of the world has dwarfed to some extent the disruption of the Amazon both in terms of deforesta- The Middle East is also likely to pre- tion and wildfires but these all loom as sent turmoil and challenges in the new threats to the entire world. The Central year. Whereas the Sunni Arab states American countries and Mexico will con- seem comfortable sharing a bed with tinue to exert pressure on the US on the Israel, Saudi Arabia has not committed to immigration front. establishing diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv, or is it Jerusalem? Some people All of these concerns give us barely a Gov. Ned Lamont and healthcare workers applaud as Dr Ajay Kumar becomes the first speculate that Crown Prince Mohammed moment to mention that Britain and the person vaccinated against Covid-19 in Connecticut.Photo - Connecticut Mirror bin Salman (MBS) is waiting to leverage EU have a tough road ahead as they fina- Saudi-Israeli rapprochement as a bargai- lize their divorce but reaffirm their love F Cont. from page 4 domination, the other will remain a formi- ning chip to extract concessions from affair. More to the point, we have often not dable force, both in economic as well as military terms, to be reckoned with at known who the enemy was, why we were Even though the US "won" the Cold War and effectively defeated the Soviet every turn. The challenge for President fighting, or indeed how victory would be Union, its successor Russia remains a formidable foe with enormous defined. Better not to fight a war in which Biden will be to convince President Xi that “ the enemy is oneself. China's long-range interests lie in coope- military clout. Russia's gas reserves and Europe's energy needs will give ration not conflict. I am not optimistic that Moscow far-reaching economic leverage for decades. There is some hope that But 2021 will not bring an end to tur- this is possible. It is too easy to look at moil on the big stage when it comes to Russia's commercial interests and stronger business relations with Western America's pleas as coming from the loser China which has better-defined goals: Europe will open a new era of cooperation and perhaps turn Russia into a in this ongoing war. control of Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, consumer nation. A bigger market for all is a possible positive outcome. dominion over the Tibeto-Gangetic Plain, Given this reality, it is remarkable and Similarly, China and the US both need to recognize that the win-win solution is disheartening when we realize that the control of shipping lanes in the South for both nations to prosper, that conquest by one of the other is not possible…” Pacific and the Indian Ocean, and conti- CCP acts as if it can win an economic and nued domination as the world's manufac- military contest with the US. At the most tory. 2021 promises to be a year of basic level, both countries realized from President Biden in exchange for letting 2021 promises no respite from wild- Chinese expansionism. India remains at the time of Nixon's overture to China, that him take the credit for having successfully fires, floods, hurricanes, cyclones, or risk. there was more to be gained from coope- negotiated a deal between the two. Of hunger. The world can respond to climate ration than conflict. Sadly, since that time, course, the credit rightfully belongs to events by mitigation and adaptation. One other lesson the US has learned China has embarked on a strategy of Trump but as Shakespeare observed, the Hunger is a totally different issue. There is is worth remembering. Even though the exploiting the greed of America's corpo- evil that men do lives after them, the good plenty of food in the world to feed all. But US "won" the Cold War and effectively rate barons and the naïveté of its leaders. is oft interred with their bones. for some years now, the world has been defeated the Soviet Union, its successor The time to put a stop to this is nigh. Iran continues to threaten Israel, Saudi consuming more food than it produces. Russia remains a formidable foe with America shares much of the blame for Arabia and its dreams of a Shiite The threat of billions of locusts returning to enormous military clout. Russia's gas the circumstances that prevail. Let's face Caliphate or Shiite Crescent remain very sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and reserves and Europe's energy needs will it: the US has been weak and wishy- much in play. As Biden tries to reengage Asia remains a reality. give Moscow far-reaching economic washy when it comes to dealing with with Iran, even if only to stick a finger in And, of course, we must not forget that leverage for decades. There is some hope China and even with North Korea, and the Trump's eye, there is a delicate dance another pandemic, how-ever unwelcome, that Russia's commercial interests and Taliban. Where the US has shown some here. The ever-present danger is that Iran is possible in a world ill-equipped to han- stronger business relations with Western resolve, with Iran, Biden threatens to undo will develop a nuclear weapon and actual- dle it. Europe will open a new era of cooperation Trump's approach. What happens in ly use it. and perhaps turn Russia into a consumer On a positive note, as the widespread these areas next is mostly speculation? nation. A bigger market for all is a possible Africa presents an economic chal- administration of vaccines gets underway, positive outcome. Afghanistan is likely to devolve into an lenge for the world. It is fair to say that we should see a gradual return to life as even bigger mess. The Taliban seem to Britain, India, and the US have lost what- we knew it. When workers fill offices, Similarly, China and the US both need have taken a page from China's playbook. ever opportunities they have had to retain restaurants, service businesses and retai- to recognize that the win-win solution is While ostensibly engaged in negotiations the nations of Africa as both economic lers will return. When travellers return to for both nations to prosper, that conquest and talking the talk of peace, their modus partners and allies. China is the usurper trains, buses, and planes, hard-hit hotels by one of the other is not possible, and operandi is violence and killing. The one here. The Indian diaspora spread across and resorts will recover. People in tourist even if one were to "win" in the quest for constant is that the US desperately wants Africa offered a ready chance to build a areas who have lost their incomes and partnership with African nations. But means of livelihood as tourists disap- short-term thinking and the urge to exploit peared will have a chance to rebuild. The single biggest concern and hope for 2021 the world over is, of course, rather than to forge partnerships and fos- And perhaps in 2021, we will see a “ bringing the coronavirus pandemic to an end… Inoculation of a sizable ter development, have left the Indians as return of fans to sports stadiums, patrons number of people in poorer nations is not likely to be achieved until 2023 or an unwelcome presence. Both the British to museums, and music lovers to perfor- 2024. In the interim, and particularly in 2021, every country must brace itself for and French abandoned their beachheads mances. in Africa, and the US never quite got it more cases of Covid-19, more deaths, and more economic misery in the months 2021 promises to be a better year but going except for establishing a base here one still fraught. ahead. The logistics of inoculating almost eight billion people are daunting. and there. Into the breach has stepped There is light at the end of the tunnel but the light will shine on the richer China. But I predict that China will not help Cheerz... nations long before rays of hope come to poorer nations…” African nations solve their crises of pover- Bwana