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# 1 Indian American Weekly : Since 2006

VOL 15 ISSUE 10 ● NEW YORK / DALLAS ● MAR 05 - MAR 11, 2021 ● ENQUIRIES: 646-247-9458 ● [email protected] www.theindianpanorama.news

MARTYRS DAY AND HOLI SPECIAL EDITIONS House passes HR1 sweeping bill on election, government reforms will bring out special editions to mark Martyrs Day and Holi. The Martyrs Day special will be The measure would require states to provide same-day voter registration, to allow at published on March 19. The Holi special edition is least two weeks of early voting and to offer drop boxes for ballots. scheduled for March 26. WASHINGTON (TIP): The House on Articles for the 2 editions may Wednesday, March 3, approved a please be submitted by March 10 and March 15, 2021 respectively sweeping package of election and [email protected] government reforms, amplifying the Advertisement space may please issue of voting rights amid a be booked for the 2 editions by contentious national debate in the wake March 12 and March 18, 2021 of the November elections. respectively with Nearly every Democrat voted for the [email protected] bill, which includes a slew of ballot access, campaign finance and ethics reforms that came under renewed scrutiny after four years of the Trump UK's new post-study administration. It would also require graduate route work visa to states to provide same-day voter open for applications in July CONTD ON PAGE 2 NIRPAL SINGH SHERGILL Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D- << Calif., and the Democratic Caucus gather LONDON to address reporters on H.R. 1, the For the (TIP) : A new People Act of 2021, at the Capitol in post-study work Washington, Wednesday, March 3, 2021. - visa that offers Photo courtesy / AP international students from Graduate route visa countries like Justice Dept. asks Supreme Court to was announced last India the year by UK Home opportunity to dismiss 'sanctuary' immigration suits Secretary Priti Patel as stay on for work WASHINGTON (TIP): The Justice about to be released from custody. part of her new post- experience Department on Thursday,March 4, asked In what began half-heartedly under Brexit points-based immigration regime after the Supreme Court to dismiss three former President Barack Obama and completing lawsuits over a Trump-era immigration ratcheted up under former President their course in the UK will formally policy that led some areas to declare Donald Trump, the Justice Department open for applications from July 1, the themselves "sanctuary cities." sought to withhold federal grants from UK Home Office said on Thursday, The policy was part of an effort to get local governments that refused to tell Demonstrators yell slogans at an anti-Donald March 4. police departments to tell federal immigration agents when people in the Trump immigration ban protest - ~ File Photo / Reuters CONTD ON PAGE 2 authorities when non-citizens were CONTD ON PAGE 29 Australia threatens deportations after attacks on Indian Sikhs

CANBERRA (TIP): The Australian Screenshot of a government has threatened deportations video capturing following four attacks on the Sikh goons community ahead of a March 15 round smashing a car table in the Australian Federal Parliament to highlight concerns about New Delhi's heavy handedness and CONTD ON PAGE 29 THE INDIAN PANORAMA TURN PAGE FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 02

contd from page 1 New ethics rules for public servants: The bill would create House passes HR1 sweeping bill on election... the first-ever ethics code for Supreme Court justices, to be PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER: created within a year of the bill's passage. registration, to allow at least two weeks of early voting and It would also stop a controversial practice in Congress: When Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja to offer drop boxes for ballots - some of the same measures that a member of Congress settles a sexual harassment or VICE PRESIDENT: Republicans are trying to roll back in statehouses across the discrimination lawsuit, in certain cases they can use taxpayer Chitagam Saluja country. money to settle. H.R. 1 would prevent taxpayer money from CHIEF EDITOR: "This reminds me of what it must have felt like at Valley being used for such settlements. Prof Indrajit S. Saluja Forge," Speaker Nancy Pelosi said at a news appearance on the The bill would also create more oversight on lobbyists and CONSULTING EDITOR : steps of the Capitol earlier Wednesday."Everything is at stake. foreign agents. Deepak Dwidedi, Chairman, We must win this race, this fight for this bill." A requirement that presidential candidates disclose their tax Bhaskar Group, Delhi "At the same time as we are gathering here to honor our returns: This one is a little more relevant to recent events. ASSISTANT EDITOR: democracy, across the country over 200 bills are being put Democrats have been frustrated for years that Donald Trump Bidisha Roy together, provisions they're putting forward, to suppress the never released his tax returns, either during his first election SPL. REPORTER UNO: vote," Pelosi said. or his presidency, and H.R. 1 would require it by law. H.S. Panaser The measure passed 220-210. President Biden's comments that the leaders of states lifting GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: House Democrats passed a nearly identical bill, led by Rep. coronavirus restrictions, like Texas and Mississippi, are guilty Om Parkash Malik John Sarbanes (D-Md.), shortly after seizing back control of of "Neanderthal thinking" are, well, touching a nerve. But DIRECTOR the chamber in 2019. No Republicans voted for the bill then. perhaps not in the way you'd expect. ADMINISTRATION: This year's passage was more complicated for Pelosi and her "We are on the cusp of being able to fundamentally change Gauri Beri leadership team, with just a four-vote margin. Earlier this the nature of this disease because of the way in which we're week, a group of moderates negotiated changes to one aspect of able to get vaccines in people's arms," Biden said Wednesday. CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: the bill - the public financing of elections - after facing intense "The last thing we need is Neanderthal thinking that, in the criticism in their districts, in part because of a barrage of GOP meantime, everything's fine, take off your mask, forget it. It Baldev Singh / BJ Videos Gunjesh Desai / Masala Junction attack ads that falsely claimed taxpayer funds would be paying still matters." Jay Mandal, for campaigns. Several Republicans were mad - but only some directed their Mohammad Jaffer, "If signed into law, H.R. 1 would be the greatest expansion of displeasure at the politicians Biden was referencing. SnapsIndia the federal government's role in our elections than we have "President Biden said allowing Mississippians to decide how Mohammad Shahzad, ever seen," Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) said. to protect themselves is 'neanderthal thinking,'" Mississippi Zia Khan, Democratic leaders also worked with senior members of the Gov. Tate Reeves (R) tweeted. "Mississippians don't need Nisha Rani Congressional Black Caucus to resolve concerns over a handlers. As numbers drop, they can assess their choices and Vaaho Photographers, redistricting provision. With concern about a state mandate to listen to experts. I guess I just think we should trust Vijay Shah - Photo Journalist. establish independent commissions on redistricting, Americans, not insult them." CORRESPONDENTS : Democrats ultimately agreed to provide more flexibility to Others seemed to be mad on behalf of Neanderthals. Or their SACRAMENTO: states in the current round of redistricting, while still descendants. Or cancel culture. Or something. (With inputs Parminder S. Aujla requiring that states meet certain standards to prevent from agencies) NEW YORK : extreme partisan gerrymandering. Chitagam The Senate, now in Democratic control, is expected to take UK's new post-study graduate route work... FRESNO: up the bill, which will force Republicans - particularly those up The graduate route visa, announced last year by UK Home Tarlochan Singh for reelection in 2022 - on the record on the issue. Secretary Priti Patel as part of her new post-Brexit points- DALLAS: The bill, dubbed H.R. 1, is the first of multiple voting rights based immigration regime and confirmed within the Harjit Dhesi, Amarjit Dhillon bills the House will consider this year. The House also plans to Immigration Rules tabled in Parliament this week, is approve a bill, named for the late civil rights icon Rep. John applicable from the 2020-2021 academic cohort of international OVERSEAS CORRESPONDENTS Lewis, that would restore key parts of the landmark voting students. LONDON measure of 1965. Both bills' fates are uncertain in the Senate, "As we rebuild from the global pandemic, we want the Nirpal Singh Shergill where they would require GOP votes. world's brightest talent, who aspire to a career at the highest SPL CORRESPONDENT The Bill is explained here. levels of business, science, the arts and technology to see our DELHI BUREAU CHIEF: A set of national voter registration and mail-in voting United Kingdom as the natural place to fulfil their Chandan Singh standards: H.R. 1 requires the chief election official in each aspirations," said Kevin Foster, Minister for Future Borders CHANDIGARH: state - the secretary of state in most, but not all - to establish an and Immigration. Manjit Sidhu automatic voter registration system that gathers individuals' "The changes announced today will ensure once they have LUDHIANA: information from government databases and registers them received a gold standard qualification from one of our world A.S. Arora, unless they intentionally opt out. And it says it's the leading education institutions, they can easily secure the R.P.Sharma government's responsibility to keep that information up to status they need to continue living, working and fulfilling their JAIPUR : date, based on information from government agencies. dreams in the UK," he said. Dr. Yashpaul Goyal The law would also guarantee voters same-day registration, The grace period for students hit by the coronavirus travel either at early voting sites or at precincts on Election Day.Each restrictions and forced into remote learning last year now have DALLAS BUREAU CHIEF & VP state would be required to allow at least 15 days of early voting until June 21 to be physically present in the UK to be eligible Lovllien Kaurr for federal elections, for at least 10 hours a day with at least for the new route, extended further from the April 6 deadline. 972-330-3139 some time before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. The law would limit Students who began their studies in January or February [email protected] how states can purge voter rolls. 2021 will need to be in the UK by September 27. The Indian Panorama Nonpartisan redistricting commissions: In an attempt to get "The UK is committed to supporting thousands of Indian P.O. Box No. 190067, South rid of gerrymandering, the law would require every state to students in their dreams to pursue a world class UK education Richmond Hill, NY 11419, use independent commissions (not made up of lawmakers) to and post study employment opportunities. Given the pandemic Tel: 646-247-9458 approve newly drawn congressional districts. travel restrictions, these new timelines to reach the UK will Email: "Regardless of whether it's a red state or a blue state, we are help ensure international students are able to benefit from the [email protected] seeing significant manipulation in the legislative redrawing of graduate route and gain coveted international work districts," said Tom Lopach, CEO of the nonpartisan Voter experience," said Barbara Wickham, Director India, British DISCLAIMER Participation Center. "H.R. 1 presents an opportunity for Council. everyone to get onboard with independent, unbiased and "Indian students are encouraged to reach out to their THE INDIAN PANORAMA ASSUMES balanced redistricting that frankly is good government." universities and seek regular guidance on blended learning, NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CLAIMS MADE IN ADVERTISEMENTS. Big changes in campaign finance law: H.R. 1 would require recommended time to travel to the UK, and on any other WE ONLY SELL SPACE. VIEWS super PACs and "dark money" groups to disclose their donors support required on campus," she said. PUBLISHED IN THE NEWSPAPER publicly,a step Democrats say would eliminate one of the most To apply under the new graduate route, international ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHORS AND opaque parts of the American election process. It would students must have completed an eligible course at a DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE establish a public funding match for small-dollar donations, recognized UK higher education provider at undergraduate or VIEWS OF THE NEWSPAPER. ALL funded by a fee on corporations and banks paying civil or higher level. Students on the route will be able to work or look RIGHTS ARE RESERVED. criminal penalties. for work after their studies for a maximum period of two years, REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PERMISSION IN It would also require Facebook and Twitter to publicly or three years for doctoral PhD students. WRITING FROM THE INDIAN report the source and amount of money spent on political ads (Read full story at www.theindianpanorama.news) PANORAMA IS PROHIBITED. on their sites. THE INDIAN PANORAMA NY/NJ/CT FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 03 MESSAGE : On the Occasion of International Women’s Day, March 8 Change up the pace: women at

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka the table UN Women The universal and catastrophic lack of representation Executive Director of women's interests has gone on too long Flicker photo /Courtesy UN Women school drop-out rates, care cent of board seats, made up only 25 per No country prospers without the nternational Women's Day this year responsibilities and child marriages cent of national parliamentarians, and comes at a difficult time for the world rise. We are seeing tens of millions just 13 per cent of peace negotiators. engagement of women. We need Iand for gender equality, but at a more women plunge into extreme Only 22 countries currently have a women's representation that reflects perfect moment to fight for poverty, as they lose their jobs at a woman as Head of State or Government all women and girls in all their transformative action and to salute higher rate than men, and pay the price and 119 have never experienced this - diversity and abilities, and across all women and young people for their for a lack of digital access and skills. something that has important relentless drive for gender equality and These and many other problems cannot consequences for the aspirations of girls cultural, social, economic and human rights. Our focus is on women's be left to men alone to solve. Yet, while growing up. On the current trajectory, political situations. This is the only leadership and on ramping up there are notable exceptions, in most we won't see gender parity in the highest way we will get real societal change representation in all the areas where countries there is simply not the office before 2150. that incorporates women in decision- decisions are made - currently mainly by critical mass of women in decision- his can and must change. What is men - about the issues that affect making and leadership positions to needed is the political will to making as equals and benefits us all. women's lives. The universal and ensure that these issues are tabled and Tactively and intentionally support This is the vision of the 2030 Agenda catastrophic lack of representation of dealt with effectively and this has women's representation. Leaders can set and the Sustainable Development Goals women's interests has gone on too long. affected the pace of change for women and meet parity targets, including and the vision of the Beijing As we address the extraordinary overall. through appointments for all executive Declaration and Platform for Action. It There are breakthroughs to celebrate, positions at all levels of government, as is the vision of civil society and hardship that COVID-19 has brought where women have taken the helm of has occurred in the few countries with multitudes of young people who are to millions of women and girls and organizations such as the World Trade gender equal cabinets. Special measures already leading the way and of all those their communities, we also look Organization, the International can work; where countries have put in who will join us in the Generation ahead to the solid opportunities of Monetary Fund and the European place and enforced quotas, they have Equality Action Coalitions. We need Central Bank and we look forward to made real progress on women's bold decisive action across the world to the Generation Equality Forum and more such appointments that help to leadership, as have those that have bring women into the heart of the Action Coalitions to bring change. change the picture of what a leader policies to address representation. decision-making spaces in large During the pandemic, we have seen looks like. Yet this is not the norm. In Where these measures do not exist, numbers and as full partners, so that we increased violence against women and 2020, as a global average, women were 4.4 progress is slower or even nonexistent can make immediate progress on a girls and lost learning for girls as per cent of CEOs, occupied just 16.9 per and easily reversed. greener, equitable and inclusive world. Queens BP Donovan Richards dwells on Covid and development in his first State of the Borough address

QUEENS, NY (TIP): Queens Borough President Small Business Services (SBS) to connect Queens Donovan Richards delivered his first State of the businesses with all available tools to help them Borough address, March 3, putting forth a thrive. comprehensive package of proposals to address the ● Establish an Ombudsman within the Queens immediate public health and economic crises facing Borough President's Office to oversee the quality Queens while also looking toward a post-pandemic of the borough's recovery and rebuild. borough built on a foundation of equity across the ● Establish a Director of Nonprofit Opportunities spectrum for all our families. The text of the address, as within the Queens Borough President's Office to prepared for delivery, can be found here. assist community-based organizations in Below is a detailed breakdown of initiatives outlined accessing new funding opportunities and by Borough President Richards in his address, resources from both the public and private sectors. ● including some that have already launched over the Queens Borough President Donovan Richards delivers his first Closing the digital divide across our small course of the Richards Administration's first 100 days. State of the Borough address virtually from the Museum of the business community by expanding broadband Healthcare Moving Image (MOMI) in Astoria on Wednesday, March 3 access, improving internet literacy and assisting with digital marketing. ● Work with city, state and federal partners to ● Advocate for the creation of more community- ● Fostering job growth by implementing workforce greatly expand the network of culturally based health centers that offer preventative development programs, revitalizing vacant space competent, grassroots COVID-19 testing and medicine, limiting the strain on our borough's and more. vaccination centers, especially in historically already overcrowded emergency rooms. Housing underserved communities hardest hit by the Economic Development pandemic. ● Create at least 2,000 units of truly affordable ● Host regional virtual vaccine town halls with ● Continue encouraging participation in the $17.5 senior housing - identifying new locations for such health experts to build community trust in the million Queens Small Business Grant program, developments, including on underutilized, city- COVID-19 vaccination process. launched by Borough President Richards and the owned property such as vacant land or parking ● Advocate for the construction of new hospital NYC Economic Development Corporation (EDC) lots. facilities in Queens to address the borough's earlier this year. CONTD ON PAGE 6 unacceptable scarcity of hospital beds. ● Host town halls with the NYC Department of THE INDIAN PANORAMA INDIANS ABROAD FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 04 Indian American engineer Vishnu Sridhar playing key role in NASA’s Mars rover mission

NEW YORK (TIP): Vishnu Sridhar, an Indian field because of my grandfather. He was a civil engineer American engineer, who is playing a key role in NASA's in India. He built the second largest dam in India, and mission to Mars, says rover Perseverance's SuperCam he has built trains that are still operational." will now analyze the Red Planet's terrain the rover "Unlike him, I didn't want to work on stuff that's cannot reach. beneath our atmosphere. I kind of wanted to be Landing safely on Mars on Feb. 18 after traversing different, so I started pursuing aerospace engineering," nearly 300 million miles, the rover is now set to perform Sridhar told media. its most exciting work in the next few weeks, says Asked if there was a particular turning point, Sridhar, 27, the lead systems engineer for the Sridhar said, "One of our high school projects involved SuperCam. sending a weather balloon up to about 100,000 feet." The SuperCam is an instrument designed to scan "I put in a couple instruments - an altitude pressure rocks and minerals-from up to 20 feet away-to sensor, and a camera. It was so high that you could see determine their chemical makeup. While growing in Rego Park, Queens, Sridhar was awed at the the curvature of the Earth and the darkness of space." "NASA missions are obviously trying to explore and airplanes that would take off from nearby LaGuardia airport "That really opened my eyes and connecting the dots answer the fundamental questions," Queens native with the science TV shows from my youth made me Sridhar told ABC7 News channel in a conversation with are successful on Mars and it's a great achievement for interested in pursuing and following NASA missions." meteorologist Lee Goldberg. humankind." While growing in Rego Park, Queens, Asked about his own role in the mission, Sridhar "Perseverance is also trying to seek that, and Sridhar was awed at the airplanes that would take off said, "SuperCam has a microscopic-level camera that eventually answer the question, was there life on Mars, from nearby LaGuardia airport, according to New York can take minute, high-resolution images of rocks that was their life outside, Earth," he said. Media. As a high-school student, he sent a weather the geologists on Earth can analyze and study. "We're going to be taking more images of Mars, we're balloon up 100,000 feet and got a taste of the vastness of "But it also has built in lasers and spectrometers [for going to be shooting lasers with the SuperCam space - so much left unexplored, unseen by human eyes. chemical analysis]. When it fires its laser, it can instrument, we're going to be recording audio with our His grandfather, a civil engineer who built trains and basically detect the chemical composition and the microphone. And eventually,soon in near future, we are dams in India, also inspired him. mineral makeup of the different rocks," he told Media. going to deploy our helicopter, and do the first powered "Growing up, I was always fascinated by airplanes "And it's scanning the rocks in fine detail-each point flight on Mars," Sridhar said. living close to two giant airports like LaGuardia and is as small as the tip of a pencil. It can look at samples It's important that the mission is happening despite JFK, and I just naturally liked science fiction and that are 20 feet away." the Covid pandemic, he said. "It was definitely a tough technology growing up. And I also loved and enjoyed "There was a lot of testing involved and development period for us during Covid and for everyone else around building things," he told media over the last three years," Sridhar said. "Summer 2019 the globe." "One of the key events that sparked my interest in was when instruments came in from France and Los "And that's why I love the name of Perseverance space and exploration was watching National Alamos and when we physically integrated SuperCam because we persevered through the pandemic and there Geographic. The Carl Sagan TV show Cosmos, too-that with the Perseverance rover." "That's something I will was a paradigm shift, we learned a lot how to do really sparked my interest in human exploration and cherish for the rest of my life…to have touched and engineering remotely," he said. exploring our solar system." worked on a piece of hardware that's on its way to "And we went through all that we learned and now we "I was also attracted to engineering and the STEM Mars," he further told the media. NRIs can now resolve issues via newly Indian Origin group in Brampton holds launched website by Punjab Govt. Tiranga rally in support of farm laws CHANDIGARH / NEW YORK (TIP): BRAMPTON, CANADA (TIP): Indian The Punjab Government has launched a diaspora in Canada organized a Tiranga website to deal with the matters related rally in Brampton on Sunday,February 28, to family, property and other issues of calling for stronger India-Canada ties. Non-Resident Indians. The website of Several videos of the rally, which were the Punjab State Commission for NRIs, making the rounds on the Internet, saw www.nricommissionpunjab.com, was the participation of multiple cars and was Pro-farm laws Indian origin in Brampton launched by NRI Affairs, Sports and seen as a show of strength against the organized a Tiranga rally Youth Services Minister Rana Gurmit surrogacy arrangements, the Punjab Khalistani fringe elements in Canada. Singh Sodhi, here, today. State Commission for NRIs was This comes after India last week had immediate attention of the High constituted in 2011 but due to lack of requested the Canadian authorities to Commission of Ottawa and as well as our Time-bound settlement information related with the issues of ensure the safety and security of its consulates there," the MEA spokesperson ● Complaints be lodged from NRIs, communication and exchange of citizens following reports that threats had said. required documents in the case, it was have been given by Khalistani groups to Criticizing the recent attacks on the any country with requisite difficult to resolve the issue immediately. the Indian community after they held a Hindu minorities in Canada, people of documents on the website of Hence, to bridge the gap this website "Tiranga rally" in support of farm laws. Indian origin last week called on Jagmeet has been launched. "We have come across threats and Singh, MP from Riding (seat)of Burnaby, the Punjab State NRI The NRI Affairs Minister said through intimidation of some members of the to "protect all Canadian citizens including Commission this portal, NRIs residing in any country Indian community in Canada. These Hindu-Canadians" instead of supporting ● would be able to register their threats have come from certain fringe the Khalistani movement. A complainant will be issued grievances along with important elements in Canada and we have taken While protesting against Jagmeet a unique number to track the documents, adding that the complainant this up with the Canadian authorities both Singh, the Canadians of Indian origin would have to register his complaint on in Ottawa and Delhi," said Ministry of said, "The discourse against the Indian complaint, which would be the website as per the checklist related to External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Government is being weaponized (by the settled in a time-bound manner the issue. Once the complaint is Anurag Srivastava in a weekly briefing separatist Khalistani groups) for political Sodhi said to deal with the cases of registered, the complainant will be given after a question on threats from the gains with incendiary rhetoric that NRIs such as immigration, nationality, a unique number for further Khalistani groups to the Indian stigmatizes and dehumanizes Hindus in matrimony, inter-parental child information or future course of action. community. Canada who are a visible minority in removal, spousal maintenance, division Commission Chairman Justice "We have requested them to take steps to Canada." of matrimonial property, inter-country Shekhar Kumar Dhawan (retd) said the ensure the safety of Indian citizens in They also sent flowers to the MP to adoptions, succession and inheritance, complainant should be a native of Canada. We advise Indian nationals to remind him of the "value of peace and illegal migration, poor job conditions, Punjab or an occurrence in complaint report any such incidents to the local that you are an MP of Canada who needs tenancy of Indian property and should be Punjab-related. Canadian police and also bring to the to protect his own people first". THE INDIAN PANORAMA INDIANS ABROAD FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 05 Indian American Maju Indo - American Kashmiri Forum Varghese Appointed Deputy expresses concern over Assistant to Joe Biden death threat to rights WASHINGTON (TIP): Indian remote working. activist Sushil Pandit American Maju Varghese, who He previously served in the White previously served as a key member of House under President Barack Obama in the Biden campaign and the inaugural various roles, including as the assistant committee, has been appointed as the to the president for management and deputy assistant to US President Joe administration and deputy director of Biden and director of the White House advance. He has also worked as the chief Military Office. operating officer at The Hub Project and Mr. Varghese, a lawyer by training, as a senior advisor at the law firm had previously served as the chief Dentons. operating officer of the Biden campaign Mr. Varghese, who is in his early Sushil Pandit, a Kashmiri human rights during the 2020 presidential election and Maju Varghese has been appointed as the forties, was born in the US to parents activist in India is facing death threats later as the executive director of the deputy assistant to US President Joe Biden and who immigrated from Thiruvalla, inaugural committee. director of the White House Military Office Kerala. He has a bachelor's degree in WASHINGTON (TIP): Members of "Maju Varghese is now deputy functions, including food service, political science and economics from the the Kashmiri diaspora in the US have assistant to the president and director of presidential transportation, medical University of Massachusetts, Amherst. expressed concern over the death the White House Military Office," Mr. support, emergency medical services As the assistant to the President for threat to Sushil Pandit, a Kashmiri Varghese tweeted the photo of the White and hospitality services. management and administration from human rights activist in India, urging House Arrival Lounge announcing his The WHMO Director oversees all July 2015 to January 2017, Mr. Varghese the Indian government to take a stern appointment. military operations aboard Air Force was responsible for day-to-day action against those responsible "The primaries, the general, the One on Presidential missions worldwide. operations of the White House complex behind the plot to assassinate him. inaugural. Grateful for the journey, for Mr. Varghese was one of the four including oversight of White House Pandit is a human rights activist and great teammates and the history we members of the presidential inaugural budget, personnel, facilities, tours and the chief executive officer of Hive made together. Honored to serve the committee, which organized the major events. Communications India Private country and the President. Proud to walk activities surrounding the swearing-in of As special assistant to the President Limited. On Saturday, two men, who through those gates again and to take my President Biden and Vice President and deputy director of advance from were allegedly hired to kill Pandit, family, their story and their hopes with Kamala Harris on January 20. June 2014 to July 2015, he served as the were arrested in Delhi. me," Mr. Varghese tweeted along with He was the chief operating officer and head of the US delegation for pre- The Indo-American Kashmir Forum the photo on Tuesday. senior advisor in the Biden-Harris advance visits around the world (IAKF), which seeks the return of The White House Military Office campaign from the primaries through composed of White House staff, National Kashmiri Pandits to the Kashmir (WHMO) is a department within the the general, overseeing the campaign's Security staff, the White House Military Valley with guaranteed security and White House Office that provides day-to-day operations and leading it Office and the United States Secret freedom to exercise their religious military support for White House through an unprecedented shift to Service. faith and cultural way of life without fear or intrusion, said in a statement on Sunday that the failed attempt on Pandit had once again highlighted the Indian American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal risks to the community's secure life and liberty. named Vice Chair of key Congressional Subcommittee "The plot to assassinate Sushil Pandit, which was foiled by Delhi WASHINGTON (TIP): Indian Bezos about how the tech giant uses Police, is condemnable," it said. American Congresswoman Pramila third party seller data. She also "This targeted plot is a grim Jayapal has been named vice chair of the questioned Facebook CEO Mark reminder of the havoc brought upon Subcommittee on Antitrust, Zuckerberg on how the social the entire aboriginal Kashmiri Hindu Commercial, and Administrative Law. networking giant harvests and community, who have been driven Chennai-born Jayapal, 55, from the monetizes user data and then utilizes it from their homeland in the Kashmir Democratic Party, will oversee the to copy, acquire, and kill rivals, the Valley through repeated pogroms over subcommittee's urgent work on media release said. the past few centuries, most recently antitrust, big tech, reining in anti- Additionally, Jayapal asked Google's beginning in 1990," the group, whose competitive behavior, helping prevent CEO Sundar Pichai about the company's board members are Vijay Sazawal, monopolistic practices, protecting a free total control of the ad market as the Rajiv Pandit, Lalit Koul, Raj Koul and press, and allowing innovation to thrive. owner of the market, the ad buyer, and Rahul Pandit, said. Ms Jayapal, the only Indian-American the ad seller, which has harmful effects The IAKF was established in 1991 to woman in the House of Representatives, on the local and independent journalism inform the world of the oppression has been a leading voice on the necessary for our democracy to thrive. against Kashmiri Pandits that led to committee, where she most recently "I am honored to lead the House The hearing was part of the Antitrust their forced exile from Kashmir due to Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial, and played an active role in conducting Administrative Law at a pivotal moment in Subcommittee's more than 16-month the influx of fundamentalist Islamic America's first major congressional which we must write the next chapter of investigation into the state of terrorism. antitrust investigation in decades, a antitrust law," Jayapal said in a statement. competition in the digital economy. "While IAKF thanks Delhi Police for media release said. "I can say conclusively that self- foiling this attempt, it also demands "I am honored to lead the House "By reasserting the power of Congress regulation by Big Tech comes at the thorough and swift investigation of Subcommittee on Antitrust, and using our historic investigation as a expense of our communities, small this plot and expects Delhi Police and Commercial, and Administrative Law at roadmap, we will continue the work businesses, consumers, the free press, judiciary to expeditiously bring the a pivotal moment in which we must necessary to rein in anti-competitive and innovation," she said after the masterminds of this plot to justice. write the next chapter of antitrust law," behavior, help prevent monopolistic investigation's findings were released in "IAKF also demands that the Jayapal said in a statement. practices, protect local and independent October. Ministry of Home Affairs in Delhi take "That's how we will finally hold journalism, and allow innovation to In December, Jayapal was elected as this matter with utmost seriousness dominant tech platforms accountable thrive," Jayapal said on Wednesday. the chair of the Congressional and immediately provide official while advocating for workers, stopping In July, Jayapal questioned the CEOs Progressive Caucus (CPC), making her security to Sushil Pandit, if not hate and misinformation, and protecting of three dominant tech platforms. one of the most powerful US lawmakers already undertaken," it added. a free press," she said. She asked former Amazon CEO Jeff in the 117th Congress. THE INDIAN PANORAMA MISCELLANY FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 06 FILM REVIEW ‘No Means No’ endeavors to weave a socio-cultural connect between India and Poland that it is shot simultaneously in three languages viz. English, Hindi and Polish through which Verma "No Means No" revolves around an Indian man (essayed by debutant actor Dhruv Verma) who visits Poland to participate in a ski championship and ends up BY MURTAZA ALI KHAN falling in love with a Polish woman.The film's ensemble cast includes the likes of Gulshan Grover, Sharad inema transcends all boundaries. Vikash Verma's Kapoor, Nazia Hassan, Deep Raj Rana, and Kat Kristian upcoming film "No Means No" is a great example from India, alongside Natalia Bak, Sylwia Czech, Anna Cof cinema's ability to bridge boundaries and Guzik, Pawel Czech, Anna Ador, and Jersey Handzlik bring people together.The first ever Indo-Polish film, from Poland. The playback singersfor the big-budget "No Means No" is majorly shot in the hitherto action-adventure include the legendary Hariharan and unexplored exotic locales of Poland. The film will Shreya Ghoshal. The film's music team also includes the introduce Poland to the Indian audiences and is likes of Rishav Nagh and the 'Indian Idol' Judge expected to boost tourism and further reinforce the Arvinder Singh. characters. The trailer for Vikash Verma's film was culture connection between India and Poland.Bielsko Produced by G7 Films Poland, "No Means No" with its recently launched with much fanfare at the Hotel Grand Biala, also known as Little Vienna, is a stunning town breathtaking cinematography brilliantly Hyatt Mumbai and it bagged the best trailer award. "No situated in southern Poland. Vikash Verma's creative capturingsnow-clad mountains and picturesque vistas Means No" has already received the backing of various decision to base a large part of 'No Means No' here will provide a hitherto unseen glimpse into the life in Hollywood and Bollywood stars such as Preity Zinta and go a long way in putting Bielsko Biala in the limelight Poland.The lead actor Dhruv Verma underwent Steven Seagal. Vikash Verma is also making another for the rest of the world after mostly remaining away rigorous training to prepare himself for the role.He movie titled 'The Good Maharaja', which will be based from the public attention for a better part of the last spent months in Poland mastering the Israeli fighting on Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja, the Maharaja Jam century. style Krav Maga, developed for the army,and Jyrki Sario Sahib of Nawanagar, Gujarat. In the pre-Independence With so many things working in his favor, Vikash Defendo, the defensive fighting style developed for the era, the Maharaja provided shelter and education to Verma certainly has his eyes on something big. He European police. He also learnt dancing from the around 1,000 Polish children evacuated from the USSR endeavors to weave a socio-cultural, religious, and legendary ShiamakDavar. to escape German bombings during World War II. bilateral connect between India and Poland through a One of the central themes of the film is women (Murtaza Ali Khan is a Delhi-based Film & TV Critic / Journalist love story. What makes "No Means No" really unique is empowerment and the film features powerful female who has been covering entertainment for over 10 years. He can be reached at [email protected]) Gorbachev’s 90th birthday celebrated ASHOK PARULEKAR

PANAJI, GOA, INDIA (TIP): On Tuesday, March 2, President Gorbachev 's 90th Birthday was observed. He is a close friend of Sri Chinmoy. They both worked for World Peace. One as a President of USSR. the other as a Spiritual Master and through his Meditation, Music, Books, Art, Sports, The United Nation centre, and his disciples around the world in more than 60 countries. President Gorbachev's achievements are many. He was instrumental in ending the Cold War between USA and USSR. He was the great man behind the removal of the Berlin Wall and the unification of Germany. During his presidency 80% of nuclear weapons were destroyed. Sri Chinmoy composed 21000 songs and wrote 1600 books. Some of them are specially for his dear friend Gorbachev. A few of his Peace Concerts were dedicated to his wife Raisa. In 2007 a month before his passing Sri Chinmoy went to Russia to see him. They met 22 Sri Chinmoy and President Gorbachev times helping world peace process enormously. celebrated at many places around the Mother Teresa House near Sri Chinmoy President Gorbachev's birthday was world. In Panaji Goa, India it was at Centre. THE INDIAN PANORAMA CULTURE FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 07 Indian Dhoad Gypsies enthral audience in 140 nations Rahis Bharti becomes global ambassador glorifying Rajasthani folk music, culture BY DR YASH GOYAL

JAIPUR (TIP): It is difficult to imagine even today that a middle class young boy from a tiny rural village and was playing 'Tabla and Harmonium' with his father and grandparents in Pink City's walled streets, would be one day a Global Ambassador on his passion to make a group of 'Dhoad Gypsies'. Such a talented Rahis Bharti from a family having ancestral classical instruments and traditional background from Rajasthan's Sikar district has now world's top Dhoad Gypsies' icon and group director for a batch of 100 artists representing various folk domains in last two decades in 140 countries. Dhoad Gypsies is a group of 16 artists band including brass band, acoustic musicians, singers, female dancers, acrobats, and fire eater. Rahis Bharti at Jaipur's famous JKK Coffee house The Romani (Roma) people, colloquially Artists and organizers at a performance known as Gypsies, are the quintessential ethics, such as birth, marriage and harvest example of nomadic ethnic group that has celebrations, another award's citation settled in multitude of locations, yet claimed. maintain a relatively cohesive collective He has internationally become an icon Identity. Romani culture can provide a who gives the experience of new era window into the importance, hardship and Rajasthan. He and group's presentation rewards of embracing and contributing to integrate various academic areas such as a collective humanity, while preserving Geography and social studies. Dhoad and celebrating cultural distinctiveness. offers a totally unique, dynamic and Roma (Gypsies) originated in the Punjab multicultural educational assembly of its region of northern India as a nomadic artists in own way. people and entered Europe between the 8th Last year when Corona-19 Pandemic and 10th centuries C.E. They were called broke out, Rahis was in France and had a Gypsies because European mistakenly plan to hold his grand shows in USA believed they came from Egypt. This specially in New York, and Mexico. When minority is made up of distinct group interacted with TIP in Covid hit 2020- Colossal crowds at a Dhoad Gypsies show called 'tribes' or 'nations'. The Romani March, he was very optimistic that the people also referred to depending on the dreaded disease would stop later but invited to educational hubs such as an audience of more than 5 million sub-group as Roma, Sinti or Sindhi or Kale unfortunately the viral disease is still national schools, colleges, and universities witnessed Indian music and dance are an Eurasian ethnic group, who live spreading with newer strains even after in many countries including USA, performances. His team performed there primarily in Europe. They originated in one year. Rahis with his active team had to Holland, Belgium, France and Norway for continuous 4 months. Indian subcontinent and left sometime return India in January 2021 and he is where lakhs of foreign students learned He has a got a talent creating various between the 1st Century AD -2nd Century again looking for a brighter future of about Indian art and culture. This is an un- programmes performed by legendary AD, as traders and settled in Roman Egypt Dhoad gypsies to gain cultural platforms. parallel feat that reflects his authenticity Bollywood Masala Orchestra, Spirit of eventually settling in Europe, the "Sole purpose of all my national and and credibility. India, Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band and Byzantine Empire, according to one of the international shows is to engage with the He who founded 'Dhoad Gypsies of Chalaang---drummers of India. history records put on Google. audience and make them understand, Rajasthan' claims that he has developed Wearing a simple long Pathan type Performing a collection of classical and learn and live the rich culture and penchant for rich art, culture and folk Kurta and Pyajama when met this TIP folk song, music and dance, the Dhoad tradition of India specially Rajasthan", music of Rajasthan since his childhood Correspondent, Rahis says his group Gypsies of Rajasthan celebrate a culture Rahis told TIP over a cup of tea at Coffee days, therefore I left my home located in designed unique culture by making many that many believe is the ancestral origin of House in Jawahar Kala Kendra recently. "Nahari Ka Naka" in Jaipur's walled city collaborations such as with: Queen of Romani. The ancient musical and oral Rahis, who began his classical career by with a mere a pocket money and had gone Gypsies, Esma Redzepova-Macedonia, heritage serves to entertain, on the one playing 'Tabla', a pair of twin hand drums, to France by managing some hard cash 20 Romano Drom-Hungary, Orchestra di hand, and preserve and propagate history and Harmonium (melodeon/reed years ago where I worked hard and had Piazza Vittorio-Italy, Cheikh sedi Bemol- and its lessons, on the other hand. organ/pump organ) with his father and begun individual performances to earn Algeria, Mathieu Chedid-France, Warsaw The troupe enthralled the audience with grandparents at the age of 10 years is now livelihood. Village Band-Polland, LP the Pop Rock their performance of traditional and the Director knowing a couple of foreign Having a series of awards and honours Star from USA and Carmin Belgodere- spiritual Rajasthani folk music and semi- languages besides English, Hindi and to his Dhoad Gypsies, Rahis is recognised Corsica. classical North Indian compositions. Urdu. by UNESCO as the 'Cultural Ambassador His group has an unending list of Rahis Bharti is truly the ambassador for With an impeccable record of lighting of Rajasthan' in Japan 2019 for his performances globally and awards India's thousands year old Indian culture up the name of India worldwide in the field outstanding contribution towards including Silicon Valley Global and heritage, especially glorifying the of cultural music, distinguished musician building bridges between India and other Organisation Community Award in USA: valour, folk music and dance of Rajasthan, and artistic director Rahis, 40 years, has countries. Once Dhoad has performed in 2015, The Fryderyk Award (Polish a citation from Embassy of India in Paris dedicated his life to promote Rajasthani the welcome ceremony of PM Narendra Grammy) Poland in 2016, CID Section of states. music across globe. Modi in Paris in 2015 and in Queen Japan, UNESCO award for Cultural His work is commendable in the way he In his vibrant journey, Rahis has Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee celebration Ambassador of Rajasthan in Tokyo Japan uses traditional songs, music, dances and performed in over 2500 concerts and shows in London. Rahis has created history when in 2019, and a few awards and felicitation drums that depict societal mores and in more than 110 countries and was also he performed in Disneyland Parish where in India. THE INDIAN PANORAMA EDITORIAL FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 08 AS I SEE IT As institutions meant to uphold constitutional morality crumble like ninepins, it is gratifying that Upholding the spirit of law judges in high courts and district courts have risen to oppose the steady erosion of values in governance and the diminishing of hope in human minds.

BY JULIO RIBEIRO raped and killed by four upper-caste youths, from performing her last rites. Many citizens have voiced concern The court was aware that the UP over the disappearance of logic in Government was batting for upper caste youth since the local Rajput community courts of law when dealing with had come out in favor of the alleged activists and those who voiced culprits. Yet, the judges acted as per their dissent against government policies. conscience. Even in Gujarat, Modiji's and Amit udge Dharmender Rana's order on Shah's parent state, the Chief Justice the bail application of Disha Ravi, and Justice Pardiwala ruled against a Jthe 22-year-old Bengaluru-based demand of assorted Hindutva groups to climate activist charged with sedition, permit a rath yatra in Ahmedabad in was awaited by youth with bated breath. violation of Covid restrictions. Since People can't be charged with sedition for opposing government policy There was jubilation when it was those aligned with the ruling party were announced. The jubilation was muted judge had mentioned 'conscience' as the opposing policies that they feel are allowed a free run in most matters, this because of the fear created by the State principal reason for hesitating to grant wrong? order in Modiji's own backyard was least that made ordinary men and women the Delhi Police request for further It is gratifying to note that there are expected. wonder who would be next. The same custody. Perhaps, his conscience kept many judges in the high courts and even We have judges who are firm in fear had gripped Hindu residents of troubling him since the day he rejected sessions courts who have woken up to insisting on doing their bit to uphold the Punjab at the height of terrorism in the Safoora's plea, made in February 2020. their remit to dispense justice and decide independence of the judiciary. These '80s. Over the past year, many citizens have fairly. In the Delhi HC, Justice S recent decisions, particularly in the Why did the judge grant Disha Ravi's voiced their concern over the gradual Muralidhar was shifted overnight to the Disha case, and soon afterwards in request for bail and refused Safoora disappearance of logic and justice in Punjab and Haryana High Court before Nodeep Kaur's case by the Punjab and Zargar's plea for similar relief ? The most courts of law when dealing with he could indict the BJP leaders Haryana High Court, have revived hopes probable (and charitable) answer would activists, protesters and those who responsible for triggering the NE Delhi among common citizens that justice will be that Disha was charged with IPC voiced dissent against government's riots in February 2020. prevail. Just as we were losing hope, our offences only whereas Safoora was policies. The not-very-subtle prejudice of In the Aurangabad Bench of the spirits have revived. saddled with the draconian UAPA, which Hindutva loyalists against the largest Bombay High Court, Justices TV The Modi government has been makes it almost impossible to release an minority has led to the police in UP and Nalawade and KK Sonawane quashed the charging activists with sedition, though accused on bail. Delhi to pick on issues like 'love jihad' cases against the Indonesian and the judgment in Kedar Nath v/s State of Both, Disha and Safoora, were in their and anti-CAA/NRC protests to visit Malaysian clerics, wrongly accused of Bihar is now settled law. This twenties and wrongly charged with sedition and UAPA charges against spreading Covid by mingling in Muslim government and the police forces under serious crimes like sedition and creating relatively peaceful members of the localities in different parts of India after its command can only be brought to heel enmity between different classes of minority community. The crescendo of contracting it in Delhi. They had if the SC foists contempt notices on the citizens. Safoora, incidentally, was a liberal voices may have had its effect on attended an annual religious gathering offending police officers whenever the Muslim, six years older than Disha and the judge. After all, he is human like in Delhi of Muslim clerics from Asia. It Kedar Nath judgment is breached. pregnant to boot. She was protesting those he faces in the courts every day. was bold of these judges to go against the It is pertinent that the lower courts against the CAA/NRC laws that The important thing is that he has official line of putting the blame for the have taken up the task of disciplining discriminated against Muslims. spoken. He chose his words carefully. spread of the disease on the clerics, errant police officers out to please their If it was a fact that the judge secretly They stung the conscience of those who though it was common knowledge that political masters. Thank goodness for was prejudiced against her because of listened. And to those who were not Covid-19 had proliferated across classes, judge Rana and the high court that set her religious identity, as some seem to moved, I say 'where is your humanity', communities and geographies in India. free Nodeep Kaur. They are the doubt, it would have been highly your milk of human kindness, and above A Division Bench of the Allahabad harbingers of justice. If injustice is detestable. But that was obviously not so. all, your sense of proportion? How can High Court's Lucknow Bench took suo allowed to proceed unchecked, our India There are myriad other factors that any citizen who is not ideologically motu notice of the inhuman act of the would not be a land of 'achhe din'. could have played a part in helping him committed not be moved when their UP Police in preventing the parents and (The author is a retired IPS officer) make up his mind. In Disha's case the country men or women are pilloried for relatives of a Dalit girl, who had been GUEST COMMENT

litigants. DISSENT IS NOT SEDITION That the order came the very same day a Washington-based think tank, Freedom House, downgraded India's Supreme Court lays down norm; time to erase colonial-era law status from 'free' to 'partly free' points to he Supreme Court of India attempts to bring into hatred or The learned judges have made it clear two conflicting facets of India's present- deserves unreserved praise for its contempt, or excites or attempts to that dissent or disagreement with the day predicament. While our institutions Tdecision to dismiss a sedition excite disaffection towards the decisions of the Central government is try to remain free, there is an attempt by petition against former Jammu and government shall be punished with not sedition. So, Disha Ravi and Farooq those like the petitioners in the Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq imprisonment for life', still remains as Abdullah cannot be prosecuted simply Abdullah case to make the country Abdullah with a fine of Rs 50,000. The Section 124 A of the Indian Penal Code. because they do not agree with the 'partly free' by gagging dissent using Bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul None of the founding fathers or the government on farm laws or the those very institutions. The government and Hemant Gupta has laid down a subsequent liberal governments found abrogation of Article 370. There is no should ensure that its image does not get much-needed norm when it ordered that this vague and draconian provision democracy without dissent and debate. sullied any further by its police or dissent is not sedition. Unfortunately, distasteful enough to get it removed The court has correctly identified the vigilante groups, and it is in its interest the colonial-era law, which says that from the statute book. Hence, the petitioners' attempt as 'publicity interest to showcase India's free media and all 'whoever by words, either spoken or constitutional court's order assumes the litigation', and by imposing the fine it other democratic institutions. written, or by signs, or by visible status of a touchstone for the legality of has sent a cautionary message out to (Tribune, India) representation or otherwise brings or the application of 124 A. frivolous and politically motivated THE INDIAN PANORAMA PERSPECTIVE FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 09 Movements must not be delinked from politics BY YOGENDRA YADAV "We must recognize In a democracy it is naïve, if that any mass not wicked, to demand that a movement should have movement cannot but nothing to do with politics, be political in its political ideology or political impact. A movement party. that questions the Sangh (BKS), initially opposed the three farm laws passed by the Modi rulers, as most government. Even today, it is lukewarm in its support. It is no secret that the BKS movements do, cannot has consistently warned and alerted the BJP government against going ahead but dent the image of with these laws. It would not survive if it didn't. the ruling We can and must guard against the instrumental use of a movement by a dispensation. A ruling political ideology or party. Movements There is a demand that the farmers' movement should be apolitical, as a mass movement can't be political in its impact. - Photo / Courtesy PTI that remain limited to such shallow party that does not political effects are consigned to the vote for. during elections, the breakaway faction dustbin of history. Any attempt to accede to the An anti-democratic demand keeps called itself 'Asli Arajnaitik' (truly prolong the farmers' movement for its coming up now and then: the farmers' apolitical)! Rhetoric about keeping own sake or merely to foment demands of a popular movement should be apolitical. Funnily, politics out resonates in every meeting of disaffection with the Modi government those who are most vociferous in the farmers. This rhetoric has little must be resisted. movement must be demanding this are politicians, mostly connect with reality. Most of the big Similarly,the farmers' movement must from the ruling party! Or, media persons farmers' organizations are affiliated, guard against elements that give it a prepared for political whose political loyalties are no secret. formally or informally, to political religious color or use it for separatist Our democratic politics has sunk so low parties. This is true of at least one dozen designs. We must also be careful about a punishment in the that politicians can hope to gain political organizations within the SKM. few individuals using the movement to mileage by proclaiming that politics is There is no scandal here, for this is pursue their personal political electoral arena. A dirty.We have all given up on the difficult exactly what one should expect in any ambitions at the cost of the movement. demand that politics should be functioning democracy. The scandal is At the same time, we must recognize movement must seek responsible, transparent, ethical and that some of the movement leaders who that any mass movement cannot but be truthful. Instead, we all prefer the easy are most vocal in demanding political in its impact. A protest to influence electoral path. Politics is selfish, nasty, brutish dissociation from politics are also most movement that questions the rulers, as and shortsighted. So, let us do away with busy in striking deals with political most protest movements do, cannot but outcomes as a final politics. 'No politics, please' seems to be parties during elections. The demand to dent the image of the ruling our national banner. keep away from political parties is often dispensation. A ruling party that does way of ensuring This demand keeps raising its head a desire to choose the most convenient not accede to the demands of a popular within the farmers' movement as well. party or candidate to align with in each movement must be prepared for political democratic The first wave of peasant movements in election. punishment in the electoral arena. Any India was deeply political. Historic Now, there is an element of truth to mass movement must seek to influence accountability." protests like the Champaran and Bardoli this suspicion of politics. The farmers' electoral outcomes as a final way of satyagraha were integral to the political movement, or any movement for that ensuring democratic accountability. struggle for national freedom. The matter, should not be tied to the apron In fact, a movement must seek a deeper he decision of the Samyukta Kisan Tebhaga movement and other struggles strings of a political party. A sectional political impact. Instead of just ensuring Morcha (SKM) to intervene in the launched by the Kisan Sabha were part movement of farmers, workers or youth the victory or defeat of a party or Tcoming Assembly elections is of anti-colonial, anti-feudal politics of must remain true to the needs and candidate, a mass movement like the bound to reignite an old debate: Should the Left, as was the Naxalbari upsurge aspirations of that section rather than farmers' movement must seek to shape the farmers' movement keep away from after Independence. allow itself to be used as an instrument the agenda of electoral contest. The true politics? The demand for apolitical The demand for 'apolitical' farmers' of the 'party line'. ambition of the farmers' movement must movements, in line with Prime Minister movements gained ground in the 1980s All over the world, keeping the frontal be to ensure that the next parliamentary Narendra Modi's derision of and 1990s, as all mainstream political organizations one step removed from the elections are held on the demands put andolanjivis, reflects a new low in our parties - the Congress as well as the parent party ensures this. While these forward by it. Every movement must rapidly shrinking democracy. Opposition - turned their back to the organizations share the overall ideology aspire to this deep politics. For the record, the SKM is not going to farmers. A failure to shape politics led to of the party, they do not always follow In a democracy it is naïve, if not campaign for any party or candidate. We a defeated and defensive mindset and a the party's commands or dictates on wicked, to demand that a movement have decided to appeal to the voters in demand for apolitical movements. This everything. Sometimes the mood from should have nothing to do with politics, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu did not last long. Iconic farmers' leaders below forces such organizations to take a political ideology or political party. If and Puducherry to electorally punish the like Prof MD Nanjundaswamy and stand at variance from the parent this were to happen, if a country were to BJP for its anti-farmer laws, for its Sharad Joshi soon realized that they had political party. If they don't, they risk witness mass movements that are outrageous attacks on the movement, for no option but to form their own parties losing their supporters. completely delinked from politics, its use of State machinery to suppress and contest elections. The frontal organizations of the BJP- something is totally messed up about and criminalize the movement and, Yet the anti-political language persists. RSS are a good example. The Bharatiya that democracy. I hope we have not above all, for its imperious arrogance. It We have kisan unions that name Mazdoor Sangh, the labor union of the already reached that point. is for the voters to decide how they wish themselves 'Arajnaitik' (apolitical). Sangh Parivar, has repeatedly opposed (The author is National President, Swaraj to mete out a punishment to the BJP.It is When there were inevitable allegations labor policies of the BJP government. India) not for SKM to suggest who they should about the organization taking sides Their farmer union, the Bharatiya Kisan (Courtesy Tribune, India) THE INDIAN PANORAMA SOUTH ASIA FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 10

Nepal govt signs peace deal with radical Maoist Pakistan PM Imran Khan group KATHMANDU (TIP): Nepal’s lashes out at Opposition for government on Thursday signed a peace agreement with a banned radical Maoist group, which was involved in violent attacks, extortion making mockery of democracy and bombings targeting infrastructure projects in the country. ISLAMABAD (TIP): Under mounting important to talk about it and explain it, According to the three-point pressure to resign, Pakistan Prime because the problems in Pakistan can be agreement signed between the Minister Imran Khan on Thursday understood through the kind of election government and the outlawed lashed out at the grand Opposition that happened. Communist Party of Nepal-Chand, alliance for “making a mockery of The country’s leadership comes from the government will lift the ban, democracy” and said that he will never within the members of parliament “and release all their party members and let the corrupt off the hook. here you have people becoming Senators supporters in jail and drop all legal Khan made the remarks during an after bribing others,” he said. cases against them. address to the nation ahead of seeking a “The one who becomes a senator and On its part, the rebel communist vote of confidence in a bid to restore the wants to become one uses money and who group will address all its political legitimacy of his government in the do they buy? Members of Parliament… issues through dialogue and carry out wake of the defeat of finance minister What joke is happening with our all political activities in a peaceful Abdul Hafeez Shaikh in hotly-contested democracy? What kind of democracy is manner, according to a statement Senate elections on Wednesday. this?” a visibly upset Khan said. Khan issued by the leaders of both sides on Pakistan Democratic Movement recalled that in the 2018 Senate elections, Thursday. (PDM) candidate and former prime benches,” the 68-year-old cricketer- his party’s 20 lawmakers had sold their The government banned the CPN- minister Yusuf Raza Gilani defeated turned politician said. votes after accepting money.“We expelled Chand, a faction of the previous Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) “If I am out of the government, I will them but then I saw that it wasn’t just me Maoist party, in March 2019 after it candidate Shaikh, giving a major blow to go to the people and bring them out to saying this, but the two main parties that carried out a series of deadly bomb Prime Minister Khan who had continue my struggle for the country. I signed the Charter of Democracy — the attacks in the capital Kathmandu. personally campaigned for his Cabinet will not let these traitors (who plundered PML-N and PPP — had agreed that there According to government sources, colleague. The PDM is an 11-party the country) sit in peace. I call them should be an open ballot because money details of the agreement will be made alliance set up in September last year to traitors because they are looters,” Khan is exchanged in the Senate elections,” he public on Friday during a programme topple the government of Khan which it said. Khan’s party has 157 members in added. “I now ask you. Why do you think which would be attended by Prime alleged came after rigging of elections in the 342-member National Assembly. the same parties who wanted an open Minister KP Sharma Oli and general 2018. “I will take a vote of confidence the Opposition PML-N and PPP have 84 and ballot now geared all their efforts to have secretary of CPN-Chand Netra day after tomorrow (Saturday). I will ask 54 members, respectively. a secret ballot?” Khan said, attacking the Bikram Chand, who has remained my members to show if they have Explaining the political situation in Opposition parties which demanded a underground for two years. confidence in me. If they say they have the country in the wake of Wednesday’s secret ballot during Senate elections. Over 2,000 leaders and carders from no confidence, I will sit on Opposition Senate elections, Khan said that it was (PTI) the CPN-Chand face various charges across Nepal. The peace agreement comes two days after the government formed a Myanmar activists vow more protests after team led by Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa to hold dialogue with the radical group. The CPN-Chand 38 killed in Wednesday’s violence had also formed its own talks team led by Khadga Bahadur Biswakarma. PTI MYANMAR (TIP): Police in Richard Weir, a researcher at Human Myanmar broke up demonstrations in Rights Watch. India’s Tejas to be flown by several places with tear gas and gunfire In one incident, a man in custody Lankan pilots on Thursday but there was no immediate appeared to have been shot in the back, word on casualties a day after the United the group said. NEW DELHI / COLOMBO (TIP): Nations said 38 people had been killed in A spokesman for the ruling military Indian Air Force planes flew over the bloodiest day since last month’s coup. council did not answer telephone calls 'Galle Face' in Colombo Sri Lanka as Undeterred by the crackdown, seeking comment. part of display in the neighbouring activists said they refused to accept ‘FEW FRIENDS’ country. military rule and were determined to Suu Kyi’s National League for An IAF contingent comprising press for the release of elected Democracy party said in a statement Surya Kiran & Sarang aerobatic government leader Aung San Suu Kyi hundreds marched carrying pictures of that flags would fly at half mast at its display teams, respectively, and the and recognition of her victory in a Suu Kyi and a banner saying: “Free our offices to commemorate the dead. light combat aircraft -- the Tejas -- are November election. leader”, witnesses said. Schraner Burgener said she warned part of the display teams as the Sri “We know that we can always get shot Earlier on Thursday, five fighter jets Myanmar deputy military chief Soe Win Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is and killed with live bullets but there is made several low passes in formation that the military was likely to face strong celebrating its 70th anniversary. no meaning to staying alive under the over Mandalay, residents said, in what measures from some countries and The IAF contingent arrived in junta,” activist Maung Saungkha told appeared to be a show of military might. isolation in retaliation for the coup. Colombo on February 27. The flypast Reuters. On Wednesday, police and soldiers “The answer was: ‘We are used to will be significant and reminiscent of Police later opened fire and used tear opened fire with live rounds with little sanctions, and we survived’,” she told the IAF's Suryakiran Display Team gas to break up protests in Yangon and warning in several cities and towns, reporters, adding: “When I also warned performance at the Golden Jubilee the central town of Monywa, witnesses witnesses said. UN special envoy on they will go (into) isolation, the answer celebrations of SLAF, two decades said. Police also fired in the town of Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, was: ‘We have to learn to walk with only ago. The Tejas Trainer sent to Sri Pathein, to the west of Yangon, media said in New York that there had been 38 few friends’.” Lanka will afford the opportunity of reported. people killed in the bloodiest day since The UN Security Council is due to independent sorties for the Sri Lanka In Yangon, crowds of protesters soon the February 1 coup. discuss the situation on Friday in a Air Force pilots. assembled again to chant slogans and The latest deaths took toll to more than closed meeting, diplomats said. During the deployment, the officers sing. 50 as the military tries to impose its UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews from the Sri Lanka Air Force and Sri Big crowds also gathered peacefully authority. “Myanmar’s security forces said the “systematic brutality” of the Lanka Navy will also have first-hand for rallies elsewhere, including the now seem intent on breaking the back of military was on display and he urged experience onboard the Indian Navy’s second city of Mandalay and in the the anti-coup movement through wanton Security Council members to view Maritime Patrol Aircraft Dornier. TNS historic temple town of Bagan, where violence and sheer brutality,” said images of the violence. (Reuters) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FARMERS’ STIR FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 11 100 DAYS OF FARMERS STIR ‘If tractors are stopped, remove barricades’: Farmer Farmers gear up for show leader Rakesh Tikait NEW DELHI (TIP): If the tractors are stopped, the of strength on March 8 farmers should have the strength to break barricades, Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait told the cultivators marching to join the agitation in Delhi. "If you get information that there are barricades in the city then you should get enough strength to remove them," Tikait said addressing Kisan Mahapanchayat in Nagaur district on Wednesday. "Tractor is the tank of the farmers and farmer movements are run on cars," he added. Thousands of protesting farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, have been waiting at Delhi’s borders for almost three months, demanding the repeal of the three central farm laws. The government claims that these are part of the long- pending reforms in the agriculture sector. The farmers, however, complain that it will put them at the mercy of corporates. Talks with the government broke down on January 22. During a tractor rally on January 26, a section of the farmers broke off from the rally route and engaged in violent clashes with the police. Tikait's mantra for farmers included 1 village, 1 tractor, 15 men and 10 days, adding another 15 are to CHANDIGARH (TIP): Despite including cold, heart attacks and farmers’ struggle was losing steam. replace the first 15 on rotational basis. the death of 300 farmers since they road accidents, during this period. It has, however, failed miserably in "If these farm laws are enforced then the foodgrains shifted their agitation to the Delhi “We got busy with other activities its propaganda. They are will be locked in godowns of the traders and big border on November 26 last year, during our ongoing struggle, so we threatening our volunteers in companies and the price of foodgrains will be decided protests have not lost steam. were not able to maintain a proper various ways, including arrests. on the basis of hunger,” he said. Besides the permanent camps at the record of the deaths. We will surely Even the celebrities supporting us He said that the farmer movement has not ended. Delhi border, Punjab is also do that,” he added. have not been spared.” "There are 15,000 tractors at Tikri border and farmers witnessing massive gatherings all Following massive gatherings at Kisan Mazdoor Sangarsh have put up huts under trees,” he said. over the state. Jagraon and Barnala “kisan Committee general secretary The government has maintaiend that the offer for The next major step will be the mahapanchatays” recently, farmer Sarwan Singh Pandher said, “We talks is still open. The farmers, however, are insistent “dharnas” at various protest sites unions have chalked out elaborate may be seen as a separate group on repeal of the farm laws and also a guarantee on on the Delhi border, particularly programmes to carry forward their during the agitation. However, we minium support prices or MSP for their produce. Singhu and Tikri, on March 8. protests at other places. Confirming are fighting for the same cause. Our An elaborate plan is being made the March 8 programme, Rajewal eighth ‘jatha’ is leaving for the Delhi to observe International Women’s said, “All unions have decided to border. We will participate in the Day as an occasion to force the hold protests on International programme on March 8.” withdrawal of “draconian anti- Women’s Day to show that even Pandher said, “We will hold a farmer laws”. women stood with us against the rally at Shahkot Mandi in President of the Bharti Kisan anti-farmer laws. This will be Jalandhar, another one at Union (Rajewal) Balbir Singh preceded by blocking the KMP Kapurthala on March 14 and at Rajewal put the figure of the dead at Highway on March 6 for five hours Ferozepur on March 15. The over 300. BKU (Ugrahan) general (11 am to 4 pm).” government has underestimated secretary Sukhdev Singh BKU district president Shingara our dedication to the cause. We will Kokrikalan said about 250 persons Singh Mann said, “The government fight till the end.” had died due to different reasons, was trying its best to show that the Source: The Tribune Centre targeting those supporting farmers: UK Parliament to debate on India’s Rahul on IT raids on Taapsee Pannu, farmers’ protest after petition Anurag Kashyap crosses 100k signatures LONDON (TIP): As the farmers must be free to do their job and NEW DELHI (TIP): Congress leader Rahul continue to protest against the hold authorities to account Gandhi blamed the central government for the Centre's 3 contentious farm laws, without fear of arrest or violence. Income Tax raids on Bollywood celebrities – the British Parliament's Petitions Stating that a free press plays a Taapsee Pannu and Anurag Kashyap. Rahul Committee on March 8 at around crucial role in our democracies, Gandhi attacked the Modi government with three 4:30 pm (UK time) will consider a the spokesperson said that the famous idioms (muhavare) and also explained his Westminster Hall debate in the government is putting their full metaphorical meaning behind them. House of Commons complex on weight behind this including He used the hashtag 'ModiRaidsProFarmers' the issue of farmers' protest and through membership of the Media with his tweet in Hindi to take a dig at the press freedom in India after an Freedom Coalition. government. online petition attracted over All of this comes after the Putting out three popular Hindi idioms – 106,000 signatures. petition entitled "Urge the Indian ‘Ungliyon pe nachana’, ‘Bheegi billi banna’ and Despite the fact that the list of Government to ensure the safety of ‘Khisiyani billi khamba neeche’ -- Gandhi stated signatories for the e-petition also protestors and press freedom" on what he believes they mean in the current Pune. They were part of a tax evasion probe reflects a signature of Boris the official UK Parliament petition context. against Phantom Films, officials said. Johnson, West London websites crossed the 100,000 In his three-pronged attack, he alleged that the Pannu and Kashyap, both known to be Conservative Party member of signature mark required by the UK Central government makes the Income Tax outspoken in their views on a range of issues, Parliament Downing Street on government to make an official Department dance to its tunes, friendly media were shooting in Pune and are understood to have Wednesday categorically denied statement. Any petition that gets cowed down before the Centre and the been questioned by the tax sleuths as part of the that the UK Prime Minister had crosses 100,000 signatures must be Central government raids those supporting preliminary questioning that takes place during signed the petition. considered for a debate. Later, the farmers. raids. Speaking about Press freedom, a House of Commons said the The searches against Pannu and Kashyap as The raids also covered Reliance Entertainment UK government spokesperson said government's response to the well as his partners who launched the now- group CEO Shibhasish Sarkar and some that media freedom is vital for the petition is expected later this shuttered production house Phantom Films were executives of celebrity and talent management protection of human rights and month and the debate is under carried out across 30 locations in Mumbai and companies KWAN and Exceed. journalists all around the world consideration. THE INDIAN PANORAMA US FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 12 FAMILY DETENTION CENTERS- A REPORT Texas family detention centers expected to transform into rapid-processing hubs that the detention centers would finally tickets. close. They note that Biden and DHS "We welcome the change because the Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas helped to detention of families - we never thought expand use of these detention centers that was a good system or a good policy at during the Obama administration. all for individuals who are coming to the BY NICK MIROFF Immigrant activists and community members "There needs to be open expression of U.S.," said Edna Yang, co-executive participate in a rally demanding closure of a what they're going to do with these director of American Gateways, an family detention center in Texas - File photo WASHINGTON (TIP): A report by Nick facilities," said Bridget Cambria, a lawyer immigration legal aid organization in Miroff of The Washington Post says that representing migrant families in Texas, who was on the ICE conference call conditions in Central America and the the Biden administration is preparing to Pennsylvania. "They shouldn't detain last month. "They shouldn't be detained, Caribbean that are driving migrants convert its immigrant family detention families or children even for one second." and they should be given the opportunity north, such as violence, climate change, centers in South Texas into Ellis-Island- The Biden administration has said it is to go before the immigration judge and be poverty and government corruption. style rapid-processing hubs that will reviewing the way it uses family detention released in the community and not held The numbers have only continued to screen migrant parents and children with facilities but told a federal judge last week like prisoners." grow. a goal of releasing them into the United in a lawsuit over the detentions that their These plans are part of a series of More than 470,000 migrant families and States within 72 hours, according to policies had not changed. changes Biden has made to the 76,000 unaccompanied minors arrived in Department of Homeland Security draft But DHS officials, speaking on condition immigration system since taking office. fiscal year 2019, a record on both counts, plans. of anonymity to describe the unpublicized But as he tries to rebuild the system and and most were released into the country The plans show the Biden plans, said the transition to rapid-release make it more humane, Biden is also eager pending a court hearing. administration is racing to absorb a centers is already underway. to skirt a border crisis that could imperil Dora Schriro, who led ICE's office of growing number of migrants crossing the ICE emptied out the Berks Family his legislative agenda, including an effort detention policy and planning, said ICE's U.S.-Mexico border amid shortages of bed Residential Center in Leesport, Pa, on to legalize 11 million longtime experience with family detention shows space and personnel. Republicans and Friday, releasing all 21 people there. ICE undocumented immigrants. that it is harmful to both children and some Democrats fear that relaxing confirmed that the center is empty but Many Republican lawmakers and some their parents by placing them in detention policies will exacerbate a surge would not say why. Democrats from southern border conditions where they are afraid. She said that is already straining the Biden Officials are considering turning Berks communities expressed concern that she found the conditions in family administration. into a women-only facility for migrants, a hastening the release of migrant families detention "dehumanizing" and removed all Transforming family detention amounts DHS official said, while Karnes and Dilley would encourage an even larger surge on families from a Texas facility and reduced to a wholesale repudiation not only of the would serve as quick-release intake the border at a time when they are reeling capacity to 84 beds at the facility in Trump administration's policies but also centers that would screen migrant from the coronavirus and a deadly winter Pennsylvania, a former nursing home that those of former president Obama and families, check their backgrounds and storm that cut power to millions and killed opened under the George W. Bush presents a dramatically new vision of how release them pending an immigration more than 30 in Texas. administration. She left ICE in 2009 to run to handle the fast-changing character of court hearing. Some would enroll in Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) said he New York City's Department of mass migration at the southern border. "alternatives to detention," such as ankle urged the Biden administration to slow all Correction. For decades, single adults - particularly monitoring programs. Families would of their immigration plans in an After the Obama administration men - dominated the flows northward into undergo coronavirus testing and appearance on Fox News Wednesday, dramatically expanded the detention the United States but families and minors nonprofits would then help them secure citing statistics showing border centers to more than 3,300 beds, she said traveling without their parents have risen airplane or bus tickets to their final apprehensions are on track to reach the DHS asked her and others to issue substantially in recent years. Before the destinations in the United States, typically historic levels of families and recommendations in a report published in pandemic struck, migrant families and staying with friends or family. unaccompanied minors crossing in 2019. late 2016, just before Trump took office. unaccompanied minors were a majority of The goal is to process and release 100 "Let's be cautious," Cuellar said he told Their first recommendation: DHS should those taken into custody at the southwest families per day, the plans show. Migrants the White House. "They cannot only listen operate under the "presumption that border, a trend that more closely resembles who test positive for COVID will be to the immigration activists. They also detention is generally neither appropriate refugee streams worldwide. quarantined for 10 days. need to listen to the communities on the nor necessary for families" and "detention During the Obama and Trump ICE would not confirm the plans border that I represent, the mayors, the is never in the best interest of children." administrations, most families were Wednesday and said the detention centers judges, the NGOs down there. And with "DHS should discontinue the general use quickly released or deported. But some are under review but remain "fully that, you can come up with a balanced of family detention, reserving it for rare were held in dormitory-style facilities for operational." A spokeswoman said that approach. cases when necessary," because someone is weeks or months, sometimes longer, for most attempted border crossers are still The Biden administration has not yet a flight risk or a danger to the community, immigration proceedings. Advocates for being expelled at the southern border. detailed how exactly it will cope with the report said. these families have long said they Advocates for immigrants have cheered another influx. Soon after, Trump took office and sought shouldn't be detained at all - a sentiment the preliminary plans in recent days - In 2014 - when Biden was vice president to detain families and even separated that Biden echoed on the campaign trail albeit cautiously, because DHS has not and Mayorkas was deputy DHS secretary - parents from their children in a failed last year. Biden administration facing a made a formal announcement. the United States experienced an influx of attempt to stem the rising flows of border 'challenge,' not crisis, DHS chief In Texas, advocates said the region's top 68,000 families, up from 14,800 the year migrants. Schriro said the Biden says Children should be released from ICE immigration officials called them for an before. At the time, Biden said this was a administration faces dual challenges at the detention with their parents immediately," emergency conference call on Feb. 20 to "crisis" that was "untenable and border - keeping its international Biden wrote on Twitter in June. "This is discuss plans to transform the centers into unsustainable," and he and Mayorkas obligations to offer safe refuge to people pretty simple, and I can't believe I have to shorter-term facilities. Officials told them worked to stem flows from Central feeling harm, and making sure Americans say it: Families belong together." to prepare for more migrants to be America and expanded family detention are safe from people who would pose a Six weeks into Biden's presidency, released from Dilley and Karnes. by opening the facilities in Dilley and danger crossing into the United States. advocates are frustrated that his "It's incredibly encouraging to hear a Karnes. Mayorkas said then that he would "You've got two really critical administration has continued to detain completely different philosophy and ensure that "the detention of adults with commitments and this administration is families and expel them from the border attitude for people coming into this children is done as humanely as possible." finding a path to honor both of those under a public-health order. The number country," said Daniel Klein,board chair for After the centers expanded migrant obligations," she said. "The trick is not of detained family members more than the Interfaith Welcome Coalition, and who families apprehended at the border sacrificing one for the other." doubled from 228 adults and children was on the call, which was first reported dropped below 40,000, but detention did not (Nick Miroff covers immigration before Biden took office to 476 last week, by the San Antonio Express-News. stop the flows and after a judge ruled that enforcement and the Department of federal records show. Klein said the nonprofit has added more officials could not detain children longer Homeland Security for The Washington While the tally is a fraction of the volunteers at the bus station in downtown than 20 days in unlicensed facilities the Post. He was a Post foreign correspondent combined capacity of 3,300 people at three San Antonio to help migrants find shelter numbers began to rise again. in Latin America from 2010 to 2017 and has family residential centers, the uptick or make travel plans sometimes spending Advocates for immigrants say detention been a staff writer since 2006.) (Source; baffled child-welfare advocates who hoped $1,000 a night on food, water and bus had little impact because of the severe The Washington Post) THE INDIAN PANORAMA US FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 13 Conservative groups fight over Indian American Vanita Gupta’s nomination as Associate Attorney General Anti-Trump group launches $1 million 'Confirm Gupta' ad campaign to counter hard-right Republicans.

WASHINGTON (TIP): While Indian Republicans and police organizations her among conservatives and American Neera Tanden's nomination as while leading the agency's civil rights Republicans. We wanted to help elevate President Joe Biden's budget director is division during the Obama those voices." deadlocked in the Senate, two administration. Senate hearings Merrick Garland, who conservative groups are fighting over Defending Democracy Together, a was confirmed as the attorney-general, another Indian American, Vanita collection of moderate Republicans also faced hostile questions about Gupta Gupta's nomination as associate launched in opposition to Donald from Republican Senator Mike Lee. attorney general. Trump's presidency whose founders Garland vouched for her saying, "I A group of prominent anti-Trump include columnist Bill Kristol and regard her as a person of great integrity conservatives is launching a $1 million author Mona Charen, is spearheading and a person dedicated to the mission of ad campaign in support of civil rights the ad campaign it said. the department, particularly equal lawyer Gupta's nomination as the third "Gupta has a record of building justice under the law." highest-ranking official in the Justice bridges across partisan divides," Meanwhile, Republican attorneys Department, the media reported. according to a 30-second spot to air on general in five states on Monday urged The effort is aimed at countering cable networks and the Sunday political Biden to withdraw Gupta's nomination attacks from hard-right Republicans who talk shows, the news said. saying her controversial statements have painted Gupta as a radical liberal "So, let's stop playing politics. Confirm about policing would damage the ahead of a March 9 Senate confirmation Vanita Gupta and let's build an America department's relationship with local law hearing. we can all believe in," it says. enforcement, the news reported. Vanita Gupta has been nominated by Biden Judicial Crisis Network is reported to "There are Republican groups that Gupta has come under fire for saying as associate attorney general, the third highest office in DOJ have spent $800,000 on an anti Gupta ad have kicked up opposition to most of last year that she wants to shift resources campaign accusing her of being soft on Biden's nominees, Vanita in particular," to other priorities rather than hire more and Ken Paxton of Texas signed the crime. Republican strategist Sarah Longwell, police. Her opponents, including the letter, the reports said. "When our cities burned Gupta co-founder of Defending Democracy conservative Judicial Crisis Network, If Gupta is confirmed, the attorneys could've stood for law and order, for Together and another group, Republican say that's evidence she supports general said, it will impact the Justice victims. Instead, she advocated to let Voters Against Trump, was quoted as defunding the police. Department's relationship with local law convicts out of jail," the group's ad said saying. "Ms. Gupta has a history of making enforcement, ultimately putting public referring to the Black Lives Matter "The attacks against Vanita are radical statements that do not support safety at risk. protests last year that sometimes turned particularly unfair and untrue based on providing law enforcement with the "Respectfully, with Ms. Gupta's recent violent. what every Republican I talked to has resources needed to succeed," the public, adverse statements toward police, Organizers behind the "Confirm said about her, trying to paint her as attorneys general wrote in a letter to putting her in such a senior position Gupta" effort were cited by the Post as radical when she has the support of Biden. would seriously damage that saying they intend to showcase police groups." Longwell said. Todd Rokita of Indiana, Leslie relationship," they wrote of the link bipartisan support for her nomination "It is knee-jerk and doesn't comport Rutledge of Arkansas, Jeff Landry of between state and federal law and highlight her record of working with with the reality of the people who know Louisiana, Mike Hunter of Oklahoma enforcement. Indian American Neera Tanden withdraws her nomination as White House budget chief WASHINGTON (TIP): In a major have been confirmed, most with strong team at the White House has worked to setback to US President Joe Biden, bipartisan support. win my confirmation. Unfortunately, it Indian American Neera Tanden on "I have accepted Neera Tanden's now seems clear that there is no path Tuesday, March 2, withdrew her request to withdraw her name from forward to gain confirmation, and I do nomination as Director of the White nomination for Director of the Office of not want continued consideration of my House Office of Management and Management and Budget," Biden said in nomination to be a distraction from your Budget, after the ruling party and the a statement. other priorities," Tanden said in the administration failed to muster enough The President indicated that she would letter. votes in the Senate to secure her have a role to play in his administration. "I am incredibly grateful for your confirmation. "I have the utmost respect for her leadership on behalf of the American Tanden, 50, had been facing a tough record of accomplishment, her people and for your agenda that will time for the confirmation of her experience and her counsel, and I look make such a transformative difference in nomination over her past Twitter forward to having her serve in a role in people's lives," she wrote. outbursts against several lawmakers, my administration. She will bring Tanden's nomination was in jeopardy including those from her own valuable perspective and insight to our because of hundreds of her tweets Democratic Party. work," Biden said. against several Republican and Biden accepted her withdrawal and Earlier in a letter to Biden, Tanden Democratic Senators, who in turn vowed indicated that Tanden might be brought said it had been an "honor of a lifetime to to vote against her during the Senate in the administration in some other be considered for this role and for the confirmation. capacity. faith placed in me. "I am writing to you to She reportedly deleted more than 1,000 Neera Tanden on Tuesday, March 2, Her withdrawal marks the first high- withdraw my nomination for Director of tweets before her confirmation process withdrew her nomination as Director of the White House Office of Management and profile defeat of one of Biden's the Office of Management and Budget," started. Tanden had apologized to Budget, after the ruling party and the nominees. Eleven of the 23 Cabinet she wrote. senators during her confirmation administration failed to muster enough votes nominees requiring Senate approval "I appreciate how hard you and your hearings last month. in the Senate to secure her confirmation. THE INDIAN PANORAMA INDIA FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 14 Bengaluru, Shimla most liveable cities, Delhi at 13th spot in ‘Ease of Living Index’

NEW DELHI (TIP): Bengaluru was adjudged the most liveable among 111 cities in India in the government''s ''Ease Supreme Court of Living Index'' on Thursday, March 4, followed by Pune, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Surat, Navi Mumbai, Coimbatore, favors Vadodra, Indore and Greater Mumbai. Of the 49 cities ranked on livability regulation of index in the ''million-plus population'' category, Delhi figures in the 13th spot and Srinagar at the bottom. OTT platforms According to the index released by he Supreme Court on Thursday, Union Housing and Urban Affairs March 4, made it amply clear to Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Shimla TOTT (over-the-top) platforms topped the category of cities with like Netflix and Amazon that it is in ''population less than million''. favor of "screening" content shown by In this category, Bhubaneshwar was them. It said some of the films hosted ranked second, Silvassa came third, and by the platform were pornographic. they were followed by Kakinada, Salem, "Traditional film viewing has Vellore, Gandhinagar, Gurgaon, become extinct. Now films and web Davangere and Tiruchirapalli. series are viewed by the public on Muzaffarpur figured at the bottom of these platforms. Should there not be the livability index for 62 cities in the some screening? We feel there should ''less than million population'' category. be some screening... There is New Delhi Municipal Council topped pornography in some films," Justice the ''Municipal Performance Index'' in Ashok Bhushan, leading a Bench, also the ''less than million'' population comprising Justice R. Subhash Reddy, category. It is followed by Triputi, observed. Gandhinagar, Karnal, Salem, Tiruppur, municipalities catering to a population of technology and governance, the report Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, Bilaspur, Udaipur, Jhansi and a less than a million, New Delhi noted. appearing for Amazon producer Tirunelveli. Municipal Council has emerged as the The methodology and approach for the Aparna Purohit's bail, said this "was Indore topped the ''Municipal leader, followed by Tirupati and revised edition of EoLI and MPI were not about pornography but the right Performance Index'' in the million-plus Gandhinagar while Shillong, Imphal and released by the ministry in February to freedom of expression". population category. Kohima municipalities were ranked 2019. Essentially, the EoLI report aims to "But a balance has to be struck," In this category, Surat came second, lowest. measure the well-being of Indian citizens Justice Bhushan retorted. followed by Bhopal, Pimpri Chinchawad, The MPI examined the sectoral in 111 cities, across the pillars of Quality Solicitor General Tushar Mehta Pune, Ahmedabad, Raipur, Greater performance of 114 municipalities (with of Life, Economic-ability, and said the content included "filthy Mumbai, Visakhapatnam and Vadodara. Delhi being assessed separately for Sustainability, with 49 indicators under abuses". The hearing was based on a In the million-plus category,Indore has NDMC, and the three Municipal 14 categories, the report noted. It also plea by Purohit, Amazon Prime's emerged as the highest ranked Corporations) across five verticals which incorporates citizen perception of cities commercial head, against the municipality, followed by Surat and comprise of 20 sectors and 100 indicators into the index through the Citizen Allahabad High Court decision to Bhopal while Guwahati, Kota and in all totality. The five verticals under Perception Survey that was conducted by deny her pre-arrest bail in connection Srinagar ranked lowest. Among MPI include services, finance, policy, the housing ministry. with the probe into Tandav, a web series hosted by the platform. The FIR said the series ridiculed Hindu gods and the country's political power corridors. Expression of view which is dissent Justice Bhushan said the court wanted to consider Purohit's case in the light of the new guidelines notified by the government to hold from government not seditious: SC social media and OTT platforms accountable for their content. The Bench asked the guidelines to be NEW DELHI (TIP): Observing that clearly amounts to a seditious act and placed on record and scheduled a expression of a view which is dissent therefore he is liable to be punished under hearing for March 5. from a decision taken by the Central section 124-A of the IPC. The Information Technology Government itself cannot be said to be The petition filed by Rajat Sharma and (Guidelines for Intermediaries and seditious, the Supreme Court on Dr Neh Srivastava, both belonging to an Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules of Wednesday dismissed a PIL seeking organisation Vishwa Guru India Vision of 2021 requires streaming platforms to action against National Conference Sardar Patel, alleged that the former chief comply with a new three-tier self- president Farooq Abdullah over his minister is trying to "hand over" Kashmir regulatory complaint redressal comments on abrogation of Article 370 of to China and thus, he should be system. It also includes an the Constitution. prosecuted for Sedition. independent self-regulatory body A bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul "Mr Farooq Abdullah has committed an headed by a retired high court or and Hemant Gupta rejected the plea and offence punishable under section 124-A of Supreme Court judge, which will also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the SC dismissed a PIL seeking action against Indian Penal Code. As he has made the former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister decide on matters related to content. petitioners for making such claims and Farooq Abdullah for his comments on live statement that for restoring Article Meanwhile, the Information & directed them to deposit the amount with nullification of Article 370 of the Constitution. 370 he would take help of China which Broadcasting Ministry on March 4, the Supreme Court Advocates Welfare clearly amount to seditious act and clarified that none of the OTT Fund within four weeks. nothing to do with the subject matter and therefore he is liable to be punished under platforms will have to register with "The expression of a view which is this is clearly a case of publicity interest section 124-A of the IPC," the plea said. the government and no government dissent from a decision taken by the litigation for the petitioners only to get The petitioners also referred to a nominee will be present in the self- Central Government itself cannot be said their names in press. We must discourage statement made by BJP spokesperson regulatory body. The statement was to be seditious. There is nothing in the such endeavours," the bench said. Sambit Patra to claim that Abdullah is issued after I&B Minister Prakash statement which we find so offensive as to The top court was hearing a plea which misleading the people of Jammu and Javadekar had an interaction with give a cause of action for a Court to referred to his statement on restoring Kashmir to join China for the restoration representatives of OTT platforms initiate proceedings. Article 370, which gave special status to of Article 370 of the Constitution. "Not only that, the petitioners have Jammu and Kashmir, and contended it Source: PTI THE INDIAN PANORAMA INDIA FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 15 Group of ministers spells out steps to ‘neutralize’ narratives critical of Modi regime NEW DELHI (TIP): With a view to identified who can write our "neutralizing" narratives critical of the achievements and project our Narendra Modi government, a Group of viewpoint." Ministers (GoM), formed to fine-tune Irani, who held the I&B portfolio in "government communication", has come the previous Modi government, out with various suggestions, including recommended, "We should track 50 tracking "50 negative and 50 positive negative and 50 positive influencers." influencers" on the social media and to The suggestion has been accepted by "neutralize the people who are writing the GoM and the I&B Ministry has against the Government without facts been tasked with implementing it. and set false narratives/spread fake Naqvi suggested direct action news", according to media reports. against those writing against the It emerges that the decisions to cap government. "We should have a FDI (foreign direct investment) at 26% strategy to neutralize the people who for the digital media and the new IT rules are writing against the Government that have a separate section dealing with without facts and set false narratives a code of ethics for Over The Top (OTT) / spread fake news," he advised. platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Among other action points Prime were the result of the GoM's recommended by the GoM include deliberations. The FDI cap was essential, enlarging the Prasar Bharati News the GoM felt, to constrict foreign Service into a "main line news influence on the Indian media. As a agency". Among the long- term agreed result of this capping, Huffington Post, strategies include "coordination with Information Technology (IT) Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad (left) and Information and which had been publishing reports Broadcasting (I&B) Minister Prakash Javadekar spell out government decision at a press schools of journalism as present critical of the Modi regime, shut its conference. students are the future journalists." operations in India. Puri told the GoM that the Information Technology (IT) Minister Puri, Minister of State (MoS) for Finance The GoM report quotes suggestions journalists who are supportive of the Ravi Shankar Prasad, Women and Child Anurag Thakur and MoS for the made by the Ministers. For instance, government, even if they are now Development Minister Smriti Irani, Environment Ministry Babul Supriyo Prasad suggested, "A list of media unemployed, should be roped in. As Information and Broadcasting (I&B) were part of the GoM, which met six personnel and prominent persons, per the report, this suggestion would Minister Prakash Javadekar, External times between June 14 and July 9 last who are pro our line of thought - both also be acted upon. Thakur wanted the Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Minority year. nationally and globally, should be BJP and the Modi government to Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, The GoM's report was first reported prepared. Few eminent academicians, reach out to right-wing parties across Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, Urban by Caravan magazine. There is so far Vice Chancellors, retired Indian the world to arrive at a common Development Minister Hardeep Singh no official word on its contents. Foreign Service officers etc should be ground. Labor rights activist Covid-19: Phase 2 of vaccination ‘The Metro Shiv Kumar drive stuck in first gear man of India’ granted bail NEW DELHI (TIP): Rajasthan is the runaway leader in the first three days of E Sreedharan the second phase of India’s Covid-19 vaccination drive, having given doses to 5,187 per million residents, although an is BJP’s Kerala HT analysis of data from the first three days of the expanded drive indicates a slow start across the country. CM candidate Till Wednesday night, India vaccinated a total of 949,147 people, or 712 per million in Phase 2, which covers the most vulnerable sections of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the general public. The government hopes Covaxin vaccine in New Delhi on Monday, that drafting more private hospitals to March 1. administer vaccines and keeping workers were getting jabs, the city facilities open 24x7 will help increase averaged 19,176 shots a day. On average, the numbers. The government has 316,382 people have received shots every previously said its ultimate target in day across the country under Phase 2 — this phase is 5 million shots a day. this has less than halved (653,565 doses Labor rights activists Shiv Kumar and Nodeep Kaur after the former's release on bail on March 4, 2021. Delhi, which gave shots to 1,679 people administered per day) from the three per million population in the second days before the opening up of the drive. Photo /Twitter phase till Wednesday night, was in the In Bihar, the fewest people showed up second spot, while Odisha (1,283 doses to get shots in the first three days of A technocrat E. Sreedharan joined the SONIPAT, HARYANA (TIP): Labor rights per million) was third. Phase 2 — only 43 doses were BJP recently activist Shiv Kumar was on Thursday, March To be sure, the per-million metric administered per million residents in 4, granted bail by Sonipat District and provides an easy comparison, although the state. Uttar Pradesh, with 60 shots NEW DELHI (TIP): E Sessions Judge Y.S. Rathorein an attempt to a more accurate denominator is the per million, and Jharkhand (144 shots Sreedharan, the 'metro man' of murder case leading to his release from the number of people over the age of 60 and per million) accompanied it as the three India will be the BJP's chief jail. He was earlier granted bail in two more over 45 with co-morbidities – a number worst-performing states. Bihar and Uttar ministerial candidate for cases on Wednesday, March 3. that wasn’t immediately available for all Pradesh’s numbers were also skewed by forthcoming Kerala Assembly Kumar, the district president of Mazdoor states and Union territories. In all, the their huge populations and the election, Union Minister V Adhikar Sangathan, a workers' rights group, second phase of the drive is expected to significant proportion of their Muraleedharan tweeted was arrested by the Haryana Police on cover 270?million people. population under the age of 18 (they are Thursday, March 4 evening. February 2 in connection with three cases HT collated and analysed data for both among India’s youngest states). "Kerala BJP will fight Kerala registered against him over the past two India’s 20 most populated states. In the The numbers account for those polls with E Sreedharanji as its months. His fellow activist and co-accused in national capital, 33,259 people lined up to vaccinated in the Phase 2 of the chief ministerial candidate. We the three cases, Nodeep Kaur, was granted bail receive jabs in first three days of Phase 2 vaccination drive, which includes will defeat both CPM and this past week and released from the jail. – an average of a little over 11,000 shots a persons above 60 years of age and those Congress to provide a corruption- The medical report of Kumar submitted at day.In contrast, the three days before the who are 45 years or more and suffering free, development-oriented the Punjab and Haryana High Court had start of the second phase, when only from certain medical conditions. governance for the people of revealed multiple injuries to him. health care workers and front-line Source: HT Kerala," Muraleedharan said. THE INDIAN PANORAMA NJ/NY ARTS FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 16 bergenPAC Hosts Save Our Stage, Save Our School! BY MABEL PAIS The Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) Presents Historic 2021 Live Streamed Gala "Our Home, Your Home" FREE Virtual Concert Star-Studded, Award-Winning Lineup Across All Genres To Benefit bergenPAC's Performing Arts School, Pandemic Relief and Renovations

Performers Include Dionne Warwick - Photo / Courtesy bergenPAC John Fogerty - Photo / CourtesybergenPAC Rock Legend John Fogerty, Musical Icons Paul Anka, Dionne The Tonight Show with Jay Leno; currently hosts Jay writers and directors, with a tremendously fun opening on Warwick, Darlene Love and Jack Antonoff, Jazz Icon Wynton Marsalis, and Leno's Garage Darlene Love, Rock-and-Roll Hall of March 8th, 2021. Fame inductee known for her many hit songs including In spite of the challenging times brought about a year Tony Award Winner Ali Stroker. Musical Director: Ray Chew Saturday, March 13, 2021 "He's a Rebel," "He's Sure the Boy I Love," "(Today I Met) ago, FFTP PERSISTED, becoming the first company to 7:30 p.m. - FREE The Boy I'm Gonna Marry," \ "Wait Til' My Bobby Gets bring live theatre back into our world last July, and Home," "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)." continued presenting monthly performances through all "Now more than ever, children of all ages need access to Wynton Marsalis, 9-time Grammy Award winner, of 2020. the arts to nurture and inspire creative learning and foster trumpeter, composer, teacher, and artistic director of And FFTP,which has provided over 20 years of theatre, positive experiences. As the New Year begins, bergenPAC Jazz at Lincoln Center. Itzhak Perlman, (testimonial) continues to persist with humor in different forms- continues to provide virtual and on-site classes at the violinist, conductor, and music teacher. Perlman has parodies, satires and dramas filled with comedy. Performing Arts School in addition to its robust public received 16 Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime The first production of the 2021 season is on March 8th at school outreach program to thousands of children of all Achievement Award, and four Emmy Awards. In 2015, Theater 80 St. Marks with two plays and some very special ages and abilities within New Jersey." - Frank Huttle III, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Ali guests for the Q&A. "For Whom The Southern Belle Tolls," a bergenPac Founder Stroker, Tony-Award winning Ridgewood native hilarious parody of Tennessee Williams' "The Glass he Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) ("Oklahoma") and groundbreaking performer that Menagerie" by Christopher Durang. Directed by Antony Annual Gala and premiere fundraising event is made history as the first Marsellis, the play will star Blanche Baker, Nathan Darrow Tmore critical this year than ever. It is nearly a About bergenPAC & Jeremy Beck. And, the second show, Tennessee Williams' year since bergenPac's stage went dark due to the "Lifeboat Drill," a very funny piece about an older couple on pandemic. This one special night of unique Founded in 2003, the 1,367-seat Bergen Performing a boat, starring Bob Dishy and Judy Graubart. performances is a mission to 'Save Our Stage' and to Arts Center, or bergenPAC, is the area's cultural mecca. All will join Susan Charlotte for Q&A, as well as Special 'Save Our School!' Housed in a historic Art Deco-style theater boasting one Zoom Guest Christopher Durang, who has been part of the The star-studded lineup features Rock-and-Roll Hall of the finest acoustic halls in the United States, FFTP company for years and says, "I'll take anything of Famers, a legendary Grammy Award-winning jazz bergenPAC attracts a stellar roster of world-class Susan Charlotte dishes out. Because she always serves up maestro, a Tony Award winner, and pop icons set to take entertainment. The jewel in its crown is The great theatre, big stars and fantastic food." And talk about the virtual stage. Performing Arts School at bergenPAC - the innovative, persistence…90-year-old Caroll Baker will also join the Q & "Our Home, Your Home," takes place on Saturday, educational performing arts initiative that, through A with her thoughts about Williams. FFTP this season will March 13, at 7:30 p.m. featuring performances by programs, classes, outreach, school shows, and main present additional productions on March 29, April 19, May superstars John Fogerty, Paul Anka, Dionne Warwick, theater presented shows, reaches more than 30,000 24, and June 28, 2021. For additional information and Darlene Love, Jack Antonoff, Wynton Marsalis, Ali students and community youth annually. The tickets, contact FFTP at: 646-366-9340 or email: Stroker and additional special guests to be announced. Performing Arts School provides community youth, [email protected] To learn more The live-streamed Gala is FREE to everyone, age 2 months to 21 years, with unique, "hands-on" about FFTP,visit foodforthoughtproductions.com everywhere, and donations big or small are welcome via training in music, dance and theater by industry The performances will be available live via Zoom as well bergenPAC's website at bergenPAC.org/gala or by professionals. as a limited in-theatre 'audience' who will be part of a calling 201.503.8321.Text to Pledge 707070 Follow bergenPAC documentary being filmed on FFTP.The entire FFT series Support for the 2021 Gala will allow bergenPAC to Website: www.bergenpac.org will be presented at Theatre 80 St. Marks. Tickets for the maintain these imperative teaching programs, provide 30 North Van Brunt Street 'live' performance are free to first-come patrons, who have pandemic relief for operations and make long needed Englewood, NJ 07631 agreed to be part of the documentary on FFTP. All social 201-227-1030 renovations. distancing precautions will be respected. There will be a Facebook: facebook.com/#!/bergenpacfan Together we can SAVE OUR STAGE and SAVE OUR Instagram & Twitter: @bergenPAC medical professional onsite to check temperatures and SCHOOL! audience members must wear masks and have recently Gala to Benefit: FOOD FOR THOUGHT PRODUCTIONS tested negative for Covid-19. There will be a nominal charge for the streaming. Performing Arts School Award-Winning Theatre Company About Food For Thought Productions Pandemic Relief OPENS 2021 SEASON Renovations With A New Theme - We Persist! Food For Thought Productions (FFTP) was created by For Donations of any size visit: bergenPAC.org/gala And Two Comedies award-winning playwright Susan Charlotte to provide a or 201.503.8321 CHRISTOPHER DURANG'S"FOR WHOM THE home for the oft-neglected one-act play. FFTP has PERFORMANCES AND TESTIMONIALS BY SOUTHERN BELLE TOLLS" presented over a thousand shows with Oscar, Tony and (A Parody on Tennessee Williams' "The Glass Menagerie") Emmy award winning writers, actors and directors Paul Anka, singer, songwriter, and actor who became StarringBlanche Baker, Nathan Darrow & Jeremy Beck including Arthur Miller, August Wilson, Elaine May,Mary famous with hit songs "Diana", "Lonely Boy," "Put Your And Alice, Elaine Stritch, Marian Seldes, Danny Aiello, Head on My Shoulder," and "(You're) Having My Baby." Kathleen Turner, Tony Roberts, Carole Shelley, Peter TENNESSEE WILLIAMS' "LIFEBOAT DRILL" Jack Antonoff, a Bergen County native, Antonoff is a StarringBob Dishy and Judy Graubart Bogdonovich, Judd Hirsch, Marcia Gay Harden, Mary top music producer, the lead singer of indie pop band Followed by a Q&A with The Casts & Two Exciting Special Bond Davis, Eric Stoltz, Kyra Sedgwick, Rosie Perez, Bleachers, and a guitarist in the indie rock band Fun. uests Judith Light, Christine Baranski, Earl Hyman, Rita John Fogerty,musician, singer, and songwriter; Rock- March 8th, 2021 at 2:00pm Moreno and so on. Food For Thought keeps going. As the Live at Theatre 80 St. Marks and-Roll Hall of Famer. Co-founder and lead singer of world keeps changing and the unanswered questions And Zoomed Out to The World one of the greatest bands in rock history: Creedence continue to grow, it is comforting to know that there is still Clearwater Revival (CCR). FOOD FOR THOUGHT PRODUCTIONS (FFTP), now in something people can count on. Jay Leno, (testimonial) comedian, actor, writer, its 21st year,continues celebrating the oft-neglected one-act (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, producer, and former late-night television host of NBC's play and theatre at its best with Award-winning actors, Spirituality, and Health & Wellness) THE INDIAN PANORAMA WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 17 WOMEN RISING: LET’S HONOR WHM BY MABEL PAIS measures to prevent such extensive executions. ABOUT BARKHA CARDOZ With deep respect, NASRIN SOTOUDEH Nasrin Sotoudeh Barkha Cardoz received her culinary training at The Qarchak Women's Prison Institute of Hotel management in Mumbai, India and February 2021 - Inspired by the worked in the Development department at St. Peter's "Nasrin" is the documentary made by Jeff Preparatory School in Jersey City, NJ. With her Mahatma Kaufman, the director, producer and writer of the husband, the late chef Floyd Cardoz, she managed their film. Bombay Bread Bar in New York City from 2016 - 2019 "The true measure of any society can be found in Nasrin Sotoudeh, an attorney and human rights and oversaw fundraising events for The Young Scientist how it treats its most vulnerable members." - activist often called "Iran's Nelson Mandela," is back in Foundation, founded in 2011 with Floyd's $110,000 Top Mohandas K. Gandhi (The Mahatma) an overcrowded prison cell, separated from those she Chef Masters win. Barkha is currently the Managing "When politicians show hostility, we need to hear loves. Under arrest since 2018, she was granted a brief Member of Cardoz Legacy LLC, where she actively medical leave in January 2021, but it was abruptly executes ongoing legacy projects including the FC words of love and respect more than ever." - canceled on Jan. 19, the same day the government froze +B&B Collaboration Masala spice line. Nasrin Sotoudeh her family's bank accounts. That afternoon, her ABOUT CHEF SURBHI SAHNI husband, Reza Khandan, drove her to Qarchak's prison for women, accompanied by their daughter Mehraveh With two decades of professional culinary and son Nima. experience, chef Surbhi Sahni brings a fresh twist to Imagine what each of them was thinking and feeling modern Indian cuisine and confections. Before during that hour-long drive - the dread and the launching TAGMO, chef Surbhi served as the creative heartbreak. Those are emotions felt by political force behind three lauded New York City restaurants, prisoners and their loved ones all over the world. Devi, Tulsi and, most recently, Saar Bistro in Midtown Repressive regimes use personal cruelty to punish their with chef Hemant Mathur. She is also the creative opponents. director and events director at Saar Catering. As a lawyer, she continually put herself at risk by ABOUT POOJA BAVISHI defending religious minorities, children, journalists, artists, women, peaceful protesters and those facing the Pooja Bavishi is the Founder and CEO of Malai, an death penalty.She was arrested in June 2018, in part for artisanal ice cream company with flavors inspired by defending women who challenged Iran's mandatory nostalgic, aromatic spices and South Asian ingredients, hijab law by publicly removing their headscarves and based in Brooklyn, New York. Pooja founded Malai Nasrin (front) holds the photo of Nelson Mandela - waving them like flags. when she discovered that the same spices of her Photo / Floating World Pictures Like Mandela, another inspiring figure who often childhood - ginger, rose petals, saffron, and cardamom - cited Gandhi, Nasrin has shown that determined voices could be used to robustly flavor ice creams in a way that n A Letter to the UN, Imprisoned Iranian Writer cannot be silenced, even behind prison walls. In she had never tasted before. She notes that she "founded Nasrin Sotoudeh, called "The Nelson Mandela of December, she was honored with the 2020 Right Malai because desserts bring people joy,and I wanted to IIran" Protests Executions. She also reminds us of Livelihood Award (widely known as the "Alternative be in the business of delivering happiness." the late Congressman John Lewis. The young John Nobel Prize"), and the American Bar Association's Lewis led a march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge Eleanor Roosevelt Prize for Global Human Rights WORLD CHANNEL (WC) - A (Selma, Alabama) into an army of state troopers and Advancement (along with Anthony S. Fauci and Billie SHOWCASE OF FILMS BY, FOR AND sheriff's deputies wielding billy clubs, bullwhips and Jean King). The Iranian government's response was to tear gas. Both Mandela and Lewis were inspired by transfer Nasrin to the most unsanitary prison in the ABOUT WOMEN Mahatma Gandhi. country. In celebration of Women's History Month, World In February 2021, Nasrin Sotoudeh, a distinguished In a letter written after her arrest to the film's Channel (WC) will showcase films by & about women - human rights lawyer, writer, and PEN America's director and producers, Jeff Kaufman and Marcia Ross, leaders, mothers, activists, daughters, storytellers, (pen.org - American Association of Writers) '2011 Nasrin said, "I'm sending you this letter from prison, sisters, filmmakers and friends. Freedom to Write' honoree, was currently jailed in but I'd rather talk of freedom. When politicians show WORLD Channel (WC) celebrates these Iran's Qarchak prison. hostility, we need to hear words of love and respect groundbreaking women, well-known and a little less In late 2020, she undertook a grueling 46-day hunger more than ever. I am so grateful for our collaboration. known, like Madam C.J. Walker, Sandy White Hawk, strike to protest the conditions facing political We lean on our friendship and walk toward each other." and Melody McCurtis whose works positively ripple prisoners, including a heightened risk of contracting "So, let me speak to you of my dreams, and of roads through society. Throughout March, WC will share the COVID-19. She was returned to Qarchak against the traveled and not yet traveled." stories of women who have defied traditional social advice of medical professionals after a brief furlough in Bryan Stevenson, founder/executive director of the standards for the opportunity of equality and equity. December, and continues to advocate for prisoners' 'Equal Justice Initiative,' filmed a video on behalf of Watch #HerStories All Month and at worldchannel.org basic human rights. Nasrin Sotoudeh Nasrin has asked PEN America to release and Watch it here youtu.be/5LZUyzFj9xA circulate the following letter on her behalf, to appeal to HERALD NATIVE the international community to speak out regarding the current spate of prisoner executions in Iran. IAAC Celebrates WHM WOMEN To The Honorable Secretary-General of the On Women's International Day Join Vision Maker Media for a month-long worldwide With Phenomenal Women United Nations, online streaming event "commUNITY: Herald Native "I write to you from Qarchak, one of Iran's most notorious Monday, March 8, 8 PM Women" featuring films all produced and/or directed by prisons, so that my voice might, in some way, boost the efforts Watch LIVE on Native women. The program portrays Native women in of the United Nations. My hope is that, in the not too distant facebook.com/iaac.us and leadership, coming of age, and language revitalization future, we can realize even some small part of the great youtube.com/user/IAACEvent dreams for humanity enshrined in the Universal Declaration of stories suitable for the entire family. Human Rights. As you may be aware, in the past few months, The event is FREE and open to the public, but many of our religious and ethnic minority compatriots in Iran registration is required. Register at have been executed amid the media's silence. At dawn on Wednesday, February 17, Zahra Esmaeli, an inmate at our visionmakermedia.org. prison, and eight other prisoners were taken to the gallows and International Women's Day (IWD) is March 8th! hanged. You know well what predictable mistakes are often made in Speakers at IAAC's Let's Celebrate the spirit of womanhood in each these numerous executions. As someone who has been closely << International Women's Day human being. In an enlightened society, each human involved in Zahra Esmaeili's case, I am certain that she did not (IWD). experiences a balance of the masculine and feminine commit murder. I ask you, the international community, and qualities within. human rights activists to please pay close attention to the issue of executions in Iranian society, especially that of Photo / CourtesyIAAC (Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, The Arts and religious, ethnic minorities, and women, and take necessary Entertainment, Spirituality, and Health & Wellness) THE INDIAN PANORAMA BOLLYWOOD FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 18 Deepika gives a peek of her daily routine in new video

eepika Padukone gave her Insta-fam a sneak peek into Dher ‘daily routine’ in her new post. The video began with her walking on the streets of Mumbai and featured a montage of her at different shoots. She revealed that she likes to 'mix it up'. On being asked about her daily Amitabh Bachchan routine, Deepika said, “It's really difficult to say because no two days are the same but wake up, brush my undergoes eye surgery teeth and have breakfast. I like the mornings to be really quiet. And mitabh Bachchan had his legion of fans then, I like to throw in a workout at worried as he revealed on Saturday night that some point of the day but other than Ahe has undergone a surgery. that, everything is open.” The actor didn’t reveal many details in his blog post. While there is a part of Deepika On Monday morning, the 78-year-old actor wrote in a that likes to plan things to a tee, lengthy post that he had undergone a ‘delicate there is another part that prefers procedure’ for his eyes. spontaneity. When asked if she “Thank you for all the concern and the wishes for plans a lot, she answered, “Yes and the medical condition. Eye surgeries at this age are no! I think there's a part of me that delicate and need precision handling. The best is being likes to plan everything and there's done and one hopes all shall be well. The sight and the a part of me that just likes to leave recovery is slow and difficult so if there are typing everything and just go with the flow. errors they are to be excused. Right now, I feel like So, that's also part of my planning Gary Sobers, the West Indian great and his narration and routine.” of a cricket story which apparently he went through. Deepika has been sharing vlog- The details of which shall be given in time. It is a story style videos on Instagram after heard whether or not it is authentic is questionable.” purging her account on New Year. He also revealed that another surgery will happen Her earlier posts include fun shortly. “My love to all… progress is slow and there is dance videos, a bake-off with her a number of projects in the sports drama was recently given a yet another eye to go. So it’s a long haul, hoping of childhood friend and a video about pipeline. She will be seen next in new release date -- June 4 -- after course that it all gets well in time for my schedule her favourite TV show as a child. Kabir Khan’s 83 alongside her multiple delays because of the which begins in a few… the new film with Vikas Bahl, On the work front, Deepika has husband Ranveer Singh. The pandemic. Source: HT tentatively titled ‘GoodBye’.” Fardeen Khan to make his Tiger Shroff turns 31, mother comeback with ‘No Entry’ sequel?

t has been quite some and sister lead wishes time since we had Iseen Fardeen Khan s actor Tiger Shroff turns on the screens. A year a year older on March 2, back, he made our jaws Ahis family had something drop with his special planned for him. Blasting transformation and even him with memories of his spoke about how he childhood, Ayesha Shroff and wants to be back in Krishna Shroff wished the actor Bollywood. in the sweetest way possible. Many had been The heartfelt birthday wishes wondering if that would shared by the mother-daughter happen with the sequel duo on the 31-year-old’s special of No Entry, as Fardeen day melted everyone’s hearts. was a part of the Fans stormed the pictures posted original cast. Now, by his mother with a stream of Anees Bazmee has red heart emojis, showing us how answered the question. much they love his baby pictures. In an interview with Mom Ayesha took to her TOI, Anees Bazmee Instagram handle to pen a revealed that the script heartwarming message for her of No Entry sequel is talented son. Calling him ready and he is just ‘hardworking’ and ‘downright waiting for a go-ahead decent’ she expressed her from producer Boney undying love for her son. Kapoor. Speaking about Tiger’s sister Krishna shortly Fardeen Khan, he said, after posted two pictures of her “He is a friend. He was childhood as well. The fitness wonderful in the first freak called the birthday boy her film. I saw a picture of a handsome guy sometime back, and I was quite ‘Bestest friend forever’ sharing a stunned to know it was Fardeen. picture of her sitting in Tiger’s He called later and asked, “Anees bhai, kaisa laga aapko photo?” I lap. The siblings looked adorable complimented him. He deserved it. Of course, he has always been a good- as toddlers and fans were quick looking guy, but to lose so much weight is not a joke. He is healthy now. to point it out. He asked me, ‘Kya karna hai?’ I told him that I am waiting for the No Krishna further added ‘Will Entry sequel to begin. He is also looking forward to it. Usne bhi kaha ki forever only dream of doing all shuru karte hai. We are just waiting for Boney ji now.” the cool stuff that you do’ We hope that the original cast does come together for the No Entry complimenting her brother on sequel too. Are you looking forward to Fardeen Khan's comeback as well? his successful career. THE INDIAN PANORAMA HOLLYWOOD FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 19 Britney Spears wants to ‘heal’ after a year of craziness

he 'Toxic' hitmaker wants to "devote" herself to her own wellbeing and Tmental health and is "working on allowing herself to not be so strong all the time". Taking to Instagram, she shared: "On all accounts of the craziness the past year ... I feel like God’s tears have hit all of us with what the world has been through due to coronavirus!!! This new year should be a Kim Kardashian’s year of cleansing our inner selves with meditation … prayer ... any kind of hobby that brings joy … and being conscious of fan attempts to what we put in our bodies as well!!! This all helps us to have a clear mind … body … crash through her spirit and offers so much more clarity in our everyday lives !!!! Hidden Hills gate "This year I devote myself to lots of tea ... and healing !!!! I’m working on allowing n alleged trespasser crashed myself to not be so strong all the time and through the gate of the American to know it’s ok to cry !!!! I pray for deep Areality TV star Kim Kardashian's healing this year for all of us and I hope we Hidden Hills community on Wednesday can all inspire each other !!!! Again … BE last week. According to TMZ's exclusive KIND - PASS IT ON AMERICA (sic)" report, a man who called himself Kim's Meanwhile, the 39-year-old singer 'ex' tried to get inside her house in order to revealed she is "taking time to learn and be catch a glimpse of the star. Law a normal person". enforcement sources told that the incident Sharing a past performance of her happened around 6:30 pm on Wednesday, singing 'Toxic' in 2018, she wrote: "Can’t when the 24-year-old man breached the believe this performance of Toxic is from 3 main entrance gate in an effort to track years ago !!! I’ll always love being on stage down Kim at her Hidden Hills home. …. but I am taking the time to learn and be TMZ reported that the security a normal person ….. I love simply enjoying managed to stop the man before he could the basics of every day life !!!! ... get near the 'KUWTK' star, and the Sheriff "Each person has their story and their was called. After being caught, the man take on other people’s stories !!!! We all claimed himself to be an ex-husband of have so many different bright beautiful Kim and told the law enforcement that he lives! Remember, no matter what we think was going to meet her. However, the we know about a person's life it is nothing Sheriff cited the guy for trespassing and compared to the actual person living he was released. behind the lens.(sic)"

Jessica Brown Findlay says Demi Lovato slams diet culture her wedding was ‘wonderful’ essica Brown Findlay’s “micro” wedding was emi Lovato refuses to live her life "according “wonderful”. The 31-year-old actress married to diet culture". The 'Confident' hitmaker JZiggy Heath last summer and although Drefuses to exercise or count calories anymore coronavirus restrictions meant only 30 people could but admits it is a "different experience" because she attend, the couple wouldn’t “change anything” about feels full of "divine wisdom and cosmic guidance". their big day. Taking to her Instagram account, she shared: She said: “It was wonderful - low-key and micro. "Accidentally lost weight. I don't count calories After a lockdown 30 people felt huge. I wouldn’t anymore. I don't exercise anymore. I don't restrict or change anything about it.” purge ... And I especially ... don't live my life After tying the knot at a local church, the couple accordingly to the diet culture ... I've actually lost and their guests went back to their home for a low-key weight ... This is a different experience but I feel full. reception. Not of food but of divine wisdom and cosmic Jessica recalled: “We got rid of all the furniture so guidance. Full of peace, serenity, joy and love today everyone could be spread out, and we did speeches on (sic)" the stairs.” Meanwhile, Demi previously admitted she is "so However, the former ‘Downton Abbey’ star proud" of the person she is today after her overdose. confessed to a misunderstanding of the rules which The 28-year-old singer - who suffered a near-fatal led to some “awkward” disinvitations because they overdose in July 2018 - said: "Everything had to hadn’t realised the permitted number included the happen in order for me to learn the lessons that I couple themselves, the priest overseeing the learned. It was a painful journey,and I look back and ceremony and the church organist. sometimes I get sad when I think of the pain that I had to endure to overcome what I have, but I don't regret anything. I'm so proud of the person I am also for a long time had a really hard time reading. It today. And I'm so proud that people get to see it in was a big deal when I was able to read out of a book, this documentary and I couldn't be more grateful which was like two months later because my vision that I had someone by my side." was so blurry. I dealt with a lot of the repercussions And the ‘Anyone’ singer also revealed she is still and I feel like they are still there to remind me of living with the lasting effects of her overdose, which what could happen if I ever get into a dark place she says left her with “brain damage”. again. I'm grateful for those reminders, but I'm so She explained: "I was left with brain damage, and I grateful that I was someone that didn't have to do a still deal with the effects of that today. I don't drive a lot of rehabbing. The rehabbing came on the car, because I have blind spots on my vision. And I emotional side." THE INDIAN PANORAMA FEATURE FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 20 International Women’s Day 2021

omen of the world want and deserve an equal future free This year, the theme for International Women’s Day (March Wfrom stigma, stereotypes and violence; a future that’s sustainable, 8) is “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a peaceful, with equal rights and opportunities for all. To get us there, COVID-19 world” the world needs women at every table where decisions are being made. This year, the theme for International Women’s Day (8 March), “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world,” celebrates the tremendous efforts by women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the gaps that remain. Women’s full and effective participation and leadership in of all areas of life drives progress for everyone. Yet, women are still underrepresented in public life and decision-making, as revealed in the UN Secretary-General’s recent report. Women are Heads of State or Government in 22 countries, and only 24.9 per cent of national parliamentarians are women. At the current rate of progress, gender equality among Heads of Government will take another 130 years. Women are also at the forefront of the battle against COVID-19, as front-line and health sector workers, as scientists, doctors and caregivers, yet they get revisited the first official National paid 11 per cent less globally than their Woman’s Day, held in New York City on male counterparts. An analysis of February 28, 1909. (The organizers, COVID-19 task teams from 87 countries members of the Socialist Party of found only 3.5 per cent of them had America, wanted it to be on a Sunday so gender parity. that working women could participate.) When women lead, we see positive Thousands of people showed up to results. Some of the most efficient and various events uniting the suffragist exemplary responses to the COVID-19 and socialist causes, whose goals had pandemic were led by women. And often been at odds. Labor organizer women, especially young women, are at Leonora O’Reilly and others addressed the forefront of diverse and inclusive the crowd at the main meeting in the movements online and on the streets for Murray Hill Lyceum, at 34th Street and social justice, climate change and Third Avenue. In Brooklyn, writer equality in all parts of the world. Yet, Charlotte Perkins Gilman (of “The women under 30 are less than 1 per cent Yellow Wall-paper” fame) told the of parliamentarians worldwide. congregation of the Parkside Church: This is why, this year’s International “It is true that a woman’s duty is Women’s Day is a rallying cry for centered in her home and Generation Equality, to act for an equal motherhood…[but] home should mean future for all. The Generation Equality the whole country, and not be confined Forum, the most important convening to three or four rooms or a city or a for gender equality investment and state.” actions, kicks off in Mexico City from The concept of a “woman’s day” 29 – 31 March, and culminates in Paris caught on in Europe. On March 19, 1911 in June 2021. It will draw leaders, (the 40th anniversary of the Paris visionaries, and activists from around Commune, a radical socialist the world, safely on a virtual platform, government that briefly ruled France in Communist Party, declared Woman’s International Women’s Day, recent to push for transformative and lasting 1871), the first International Woman’s Day an official Soviet holiday in 1917. holiday events have focused on change for generations to come. Day was held, drawing more than 1 Communists in Spain and China later shopping and beauty events, such as million people to rallies worldwide. adopted the holiday as well. (Sometime fashion shows. Last year, in a With the outbreak of World War I in after 1945, the terminology shifted, and somewhat bizarre tribute, a group of How did International 1914, most attempts at social reform “Woman’s Day” became “Women’s Chinese men climbed a mountain in Women’s Day start? ground to a halt, but women continued Day.”) Until the mid-1970s, dresses and high heels as an attempt to to march and demonstrate on International Women’s Day would be “experience the hardship” of being a Controversy clouds the history of International Woman’s Day. celebrated primarily in socialist woman. International Women’s Day. According Most dramatically, a massive countries. Due to its ties with socialism and to a common version of the holiday’s demonstration led by Russian feminist In 1975, recognized as International communism, perhaps it’s not origins, it was established in 1907, to Alexandra Kollontai that began on Women’s Year, the United Nations surprising that International Women’s mark the 50th anniversary of a brutally February 23, 1917 (according to Russia’s General Assembly began celebrating Day didn’t catch on here in the United repressed protest by New York City’s Gregorian calendar; it was March 8 in March 8 as International Women’s Day. States the way it did in other countries. female garment and textile workers. the West) proved to be a link in the By 2014, it was celebrated in more than Recently, however, international digital But there’s a problem with that story: chain of events that led to the 100 countries, and had been made an marketing campaigns have brought the Neither the 1857 protest nor the 50th abdication of Czar Nicholas II and the official holiday in more than 25. Over holiday (in its less-political form) anniversary tribute may have actually Russian Revolution. After the czar’s the years, however, many celebrations further into American culture, taken place. In fact, research that abdication, the provisional government of International Women’s Day strayed complete with corporate support from emerged in the 1980s suggested that formed until a constituent assembly far from the holiday’s political roots. In PepsiCo and other brands. Other origin myth was invented in the 1950s, could be elected became the first Argentina, for example, it was largely groups are seeking to reclaim as part of a Cold War-era effort to government of a major power to grant commercialized, with men buying International Women’s Day and return separate International Women’s Day women the right to vote. flowers and other gifts for the women it to its activist past, by continuing to from its socialist roots. In recognition of its importance, in their lives. In China, despite the demand recognition and rights for The historian Temma Kaplan Vladimir Lenin, founder of Russia’s country’s long history with women and their work. THE INDIAN PANORAMA COVID-WORLD FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 21 Punjab, 5 other states account Global Covid-19 caseload for over 85% of fresh Covid tops 115.5 mn WASHINGTON (TIP): In its latest update on Friday, March 5 morning, the cases University's Center for Systems Science TRACKING THE VIRUS aharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and current global caseload and death toll MKarnataka continue to report stood at 115,584,230 and 2,568,083, GLOBAL INDIA a surge in daily new Covid cases, respectively. accounting for 85.51 per cent of fresh The US is the worst-hit country with Cases Deaths Cases Deaths cases, the Union Health ministry said the world's highest number of cases and on Thursday, March 4. deaths at 28,824,499 and 520,226, 115,584,230 2,568,083 11,156,923 1,57,548 A total of 17,407 new infections have respectively, according to the CSSE. been registered in a day. India comes in second place in terms of Maharashtra has reported the cases at 11,156,923. highest daily new cases at 9,855. This The other countries with more than a is the highest number recorded in the million confirmed coronavirus cases are state since October 18 when 10,259 new Brazil (10,793,732), Russia (4,241,970), the cases were reported. UK (4,213,764), France (3,895,430), Spain It is followed by Kerala with 2,765 (3,142,358), Italy (2,999,119), Turkey while Punjab reported 772 new cases. (2,746,158), Germany (2,484,306), Colombia The total number of cases with the (2,266,211), Argentina (2,133,963), Mexico UK, South Africa and Brazil variants (2,104,987), Poland (1,750,659), Iran of SARS-CoV-2 in the country as on (1,665,103), South Africa (1,517,666), date has reached 242, the ministry Ukraine (1,422,927), Indonesia (1,361,098), said. Peru (1,344,969), Czech Republic India's total Covid active caseload (1,284,288) and The Netherlands has reached 1,73,413 comprising 1.55 (1,120,566), the CSSE figures showed. per cent of India's total cases. Brazil currently accounts for the "Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab and second highest number of Covid-19 Madhya Pradesh are showing a rise in fatalities at 260,970, followed by Mexico active cases," the ministry said. (188,044) on the third place and India Showcasing the change in active (157,435) on the fourth. cases for states and UTs in a span of 24 Meanwhile, the nations with a death hours, the ministry said Kerala, Uttar toll above 50,000 are the UK (124,259), Italy Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and (98,974), France (87,988), Russia (86,368), Assam witnessed a reduction in the Germany (71,420), Spain (70,501), Iran active cases in 24 hours. (60,431), Colombia (60,189), Argentina (52,644) and South Africa (50,462). More US states drop mask India allows 24x7 COVID vaccination; indigenous mandates Covaxin’s phase-3 trial results show 81% efficacy ore US states have announced plans to drop mask mandates he government on Wednesday, Mamid continued high levels of March 3, said it has permitted new Covid-19 cases nationwide and Tround-the-clock COVID-19 increasing variant infections, drawing vaccination as part of efforts to speed- criticism from health experts. up the immunisation drive which Alabama Governor Kay Ivey received a fresh boost with the makers of announced on Thursday that she the indigenous Covaxin saying it has would lift her state's mask mandate in shown an interim efficacy of 81 per cent about a month, Xinhua news agency in Phase 3 clinical trials. reported. Easing restrictions, all private In a statement, she said that hospitals were on Tuesday allowed to beginning on April 9, wearing masks give the vaccines if they adhere to the will be "a matter of personal laid down norms, while the 9 am to 5 pm responsibility and not a government timing was also done away with. More mandate". than 1.56 crore (1,56,20,749) vaccine On Tuesday,the Governors of Texas doses have been administered in the and Mississippi announced that they country through 3,12,188 sessions since would halt mask mandates and reopen January 16, according to a provisional their states, allowing businesses to report till Wednesday 7 am. operate at full capacity. “The government has lifted the time Earlier this month, Iowa and restriction to increase the speed of Montana Governors announced they vaccination. People can now get would lift social distancing measures vaccinated 24x7 according to their Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, discovery. and mask mandates. convenience. Prime Minister Narendra Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, “The bench-to-bedside journey of Meanwhile, North Dakota's mask Modi understands the value of health as Meghalaya Governor Satya Pal Malik completely indigenous COVID-19 mandate which was implemented in well as the time of citizens,” Health and Sikkim Governor Ganga Prasad vaccine in less than eight months’ time November 2020 expired in January. Minister Harsh Vardhan tweeted in also received their first jabs. showcases the immense strength of Officials did not renew it due to a Hindi, a day after he got his first dose of The Indian Council of Medical Atmanirbhar Bharat [self-reliant India] drop in cases and hospitalisations, the COVID-19 vaccine. Research, the country’s apex research to fight the odds and stand tall in the while allowing for local safety President Ram Nath Kovind was body, and Bharat Biotech announced global public health community. protocols to be enacted. administered the first dose of COVID-19 that phase 3 results of Covaxin, “It is also a testament to India’s These states have now joined more vaccine at an army hospital in the developed by them, has shown an emergence as a global vaccine than a dozen others that never national capital on Wednesday. interim vaccine efficacy of 81 per cent in superpower,” said Dr Balram Bhargava, mandated the usage of face coverings. Several other prominent people preventing COVID-19, and dubbed it as Director General, ICMR, said on including Union Minister Hardeep Puri, an important milestone in vaccine Wednesday. THE INDIAN PANORAMA WORLD FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 22 City Of London Corporation To Become First Uk Authority To Run fully Electric Refuse Truck Fleet NIRPAL SINGH SHERGILL RecoveryFacilities. "It marks a major step forward towards carbon net zero LONDON (TIP): The City of London targets and highlights how Corporation will become the first UK localauthorities can drive sustainability governingbody to run a full fleet of and address their environmental Electric Refuse Collection Vehicles challenges." (ERCVs) following recentsuccessful The City Corporation is taking a trials of the new technology. number of bold and ambitious actions to The first of the fleet of five new fight back against toxic airin London. It environmentally friendly trucks have is piloting the UK's first 24/7 zero arrived, March 4, at Guildhall- the City emission street at Beech Street and will Corporation's HQ. The vehicles will form turn otherparts of the Square Mile into the UK's first zero emissionrecycling and zero-emissions zones by 2022. New diesel waste collection fleet and will collect vehicles have been bannedfrom its fleet, residents' waste and recycling in the where there is a clean market Square Mile. alternative, and it is leading a London- They will be operated by Veolia, who wide crackdown ondrivers who leave deliver the City Corporation's tech- their engines idling when parked. driven recycling andwaste collections, The City Corporation's CityAir app street cleansing and ancillary services provides over 35,000 Londoners with low operations. pollution travel routes andit has The new 18-tonne and 26-tonne trucks introduced an Emissions Reduction Bill will be powered by lithium-ion The new 18-tonne and 26-tonne trucks will be powered by lithium-ion batteries, rather than which would give the capital's local diesel, and will help with the continued reduction of air pollution in the City. batteries,rather than diesel, and will authorities tough newpowers to tackle help with the continued reduction of air Chairman of the City of London largest environmental risk to air pollution caused by boilers, pollution in the City. Corporation's Environment publichealth with up to 36,000 people construction machinery and diesel Designed for urban environments with Committee,Keith Bottomley, said: "These dying prematurely every year in the UK. generators. And thegoverning body has short routes, the vehicles can complete a new vehicles will help to further drive "We will continue to take steps to recently launched an ambitious Climate full shift on onecharge and will start down air pollution ensure that we are reducing emissions Action Strategy, which will makethe their first rounds this month. This in the City and improve the from our entire vehicle fleet,for the Square Mile net zero carbon-emission by operational first will be achieved using environment. Our fleet vehicles emitted benefit of all." 2040, 10 years earlier than government newinnovative technologies for both the about 400 tonsof CO2e in 2018/19, so this Pascal Hauret, Managing Director, goals. As part ofthe plans, the City charging infrastructure and the vehicles, change of fleet is of great significance. Municipal for Veolia UK, said:"At Veolia Corporation, has committed to achieve which will collectan estimated 20,000 "We hope this move will encourage we work closely with our customers to net zero carbon emissions from its tons of residents' waste and recycling in local authorities across the country to deliver greener fleet solutions that also ownoperations by 2027 and 2040 across the Square Mile over the next six years. follow suit in the urgentneed to deal with offervalue for money. its investments and supply chain. The pollution-busting trucks are part toxic air. "This new electric solution opens new The City of London Corporation is the of the City Corporation's plan to ensure "This pioneering fleet complements possibilities for cleaner air in cities, with governing body of the Square Mile, at least 90% of theSquare Mile meets the work we're doing to help businesses the potential ofrecharging the vehicles dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, World Health Organization guidelines consolidate vehicledeliveries and use using electricity generated from the supporting a diverse and sustainable for nitrogen dioxide by 2025. more hybrid models. "Air pollution is the waste they carry via Energy London within a globally successful UK.

China releases high- resolution Mars images China hikes defence budget to USD 209 from its Tianwen-1 probe BEIJING (TIP): China’s national billion, 6.8 per cent increase space agency on Thursday published high-resolution images of Mars BEIJING (TIP): China on Friday yuan (about USD 209 billion), it said. captured by the country’s Tianwen-1 hiked its defence budget to USD 209 China’s defence budget is about probe, which is currently orbiting the billion, maintaining a single-digit one-quarter of the US figure, which is Red planet. growth for the sixth consecutive year USD 740.5 billion for the 2021 fiscal These images include two with a 6.8 per cent increase in 2021. year, it said. panchromatic view and one colour The budget hike was announced by As the world’s second-largest image, said the China National Space Chinese Premier Li Keqiang at the economy and the most populous Administration (CNSA). country’s Parliament, the National country, China’s planned defence The panchromatic images were People’s Congress (NPC). spending per capita in 2021 will be taken by the high-resolution camera of Defending the increase, Zhang less than 1,000 yuan (USD 154), it China’s spacecraft, Tianwen-1 Yesui, spokesperson for the NPC, told said. meaning Questions to Heaven, at a the media here that China’s efforts to Last year, China allocated 1.268 China applies strict mechanisms of distance of 330 to 350 km above the strengthen the national defence do trillion yuan (about USD 196.44 fiscal allocation and budget surface of Mars. In the images, not target or threaten any country. billion), according to the state-run management on its defence Martian landforms such as small Whether a country poses a threat to Global Times. expenditure, which is mainly craters, mountain ridges and dunes others depends on what kind of China’s annual defence budget assigned to personnel, training and are clearly visible. It is estimated that defence policy it pursues, he said, maintains a single-digit growth for a sustainment, and equipment, it said. the diameter of the largest impact adding that China is committed to the sixth consecutive year, state-run China has voluntarily downsized crater in the images is around 620 path of peaceful development and Xinhua news agency reported. its armed forces by over four million meters, state-run Xinhua news agency adheres to a defence policy that is This year’s planned defence troops since 1978, according to a reported quoting CNSA statement. PTI defensive in nature. spending will be about 1.35 trillion white paper released in 2019. — PTI THE INDIAN PANORAMA WORLD FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 23 Canada Based Sikh dance Man injures 8 with axe in Sweden teacher performs bhangra in freezing cold, gives before being shot, arrested special message on Covid

STOCKHOLM (TIP): A man armed through a Video with an axe attacked and injured eight people in a southern Swedish town Wednesday before being shot and arrested, police said. Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said a possible terrorist motive was being investigated. “In the light of what has emerged so far in the police investigation, Gurdeep Pandher performing bhangra in prosecutors have initiated a preliminary freezing temperature has become an investigation into terrorist crimes,” he internet sensation said but didn’t elaborate. Shortly after his statement, YUKON, CANADA (TIP): Yet investigators at a police press conference another video of Canada based Sikh said they had started a preliminary dance teacher Gurdeep Pandher investigation into attempted murder, performing bhangra in freezing with details “that make us investigate temperature has become an internet any terrorist motives”. sensation. “But at the moment, I cannot go into This time, however, Pandher was not details,” regional police chief Malena giving bhangra tips, but was spreading Grann said. "hope and positivity" after receiving a Hospital officials say three people the perpetrator was not immediately statement. shot of Covid-19 vaccine. wounded in an assault by a man using an known. Officials did not provide the Police said the man, who they would While posting the video, he wrote: ax in southern Sweden are in life- identity of the suspect, who was taken to not identify in line with Swedish policy, "Yesterday evening, I received my threatening condition and police have hospital. Local police chief Jonas Lindell is known to them for petty crimes. Covid-19 vaccine. Then I went to a reduced the overall number of victims to said “it seems that the injuries are not Overnight, officers raided an apartment frozen lake to dance for joy, hope and seven. life-threatening” but could not give where he was reportedly staying. The positivity,which I'm forwarding across The other victims of Wednesday’s further details. Expressen tabloid said the suspect was a Canada and beyond for everyone's assault in the small town of Vetlanda, The events took place in downtown 22-year-old man from Afghanistan. health and wellbeing." 190 kilometres southeast of Goteborg, Vetlanda, with police saying they got Sweden’s Home Affairs Minister In no time, the video racked up Sweden’s second-largest city,include two calls just after 1400 GMT about a man Mikael Damberg told broadcaster SVT millions of views. seriously injured people, two with assaulting people with an axe. Police also on Thursday that the case was being Pandher can be seen teaching moderate injuries and one who is said there were five crime scenes in this investigated as attempted murder but all bhangra steps in freezing snowscapes slightly injured, the Jonkoping region town of roughly 13,000. aspects would be considered, including of Yukon, a wild, mountainous, and said in a statement late Wednesday. Lofven condemned “this terrible act”, whether it was a terror attack. sparsely populated territory in Police said the man in his 20s attacked and added that Sweden’s domestic “It is obvious that you look at whether Canada. people in the small town of Vetlanda, security agency SAPO was also working there are terrorist motives behind it, you Earlier also, his videos have gone about 190 kilometres southeast of on the case. have to get to the bottom of it,” he said. viral on social media, where he hosted Goteborg, Sweden’s second-largest city. “They continuously assess whether Regional police chief Malena Grann bhangra classes for some members of His motive was not immediately known. there are reasons to take security- said police were investigating whether Yukon's French community in freezing The man was shot by police, who said enhancing measures and are prepared to there were any terrorist motives in the temperatures while it is snowing, the condition of those attacked and of do so if necessary,” he said in a case. AP providing a lovely view. Hong Kong court denies Prince Philip's heart procedure 'successful', says bail to 32 democracy activists Buckingham Palace HONG KONG (TIP): A Hong Kong court on Thursday denied bail to 32 out LONDON (TIP): Britain’s Prince who made a round trip from his home in of 47 pro-democracy activists charged Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, has had a Highgrove residence in Gloucestershire, under a Beijing-imposed national "successful procedure" for a pre-existing south-west England, and stayed for security law, ending a four-day heart condition at a London hospital around 30 minutes. marathon court hearing. where he was moved earlier this week, During a visit to a vaccination centre The group of activists was charged Buckingham Palace said on Thursday. in London on Wednesday, Prince Charles' with conspiracy to commit subversion The 99-year-old husband of Queen wife Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, under the law and detained on Sunday Elizabeth II has now spent 16 nights in said Prince Philip had “slightly over their involvement in an unofficial hospital – first at the private King improved”. primary election last year that Edward VII's Hospital and now at St. "So, that's very good news. We'll keep authorities said was a plot to paralyze Bartholomew's Hospital where he was our fingers crossed," she said. Hong Kong's government. transferred for further tests and of London is a National Health Service The senior royal has spent most of The mass charges against the observation for a pre-existing heart (NHS) hospital and home to Europe's lockdown residing at Windsor Castle activists were the most sweeping condition. largest specialised cardiovascular unit. with the Queen, alongside a reduced action taken against the city's pro- "The Duke of Edinburgh yesterday The Duke of Edinburgh, who turns 100 household of staff dubbed “HMS democracy camp since the national (Wednesday) underwent a successful in June, is the UK's longest-serving Bubble”. In 2011, Prince Philip was taken security law was implemented last procedure for a pre-existing heart monarch's consort. He was initially to hospital by helicopter from June. With the 32 activists remanded condition at St. Bartholomew's Hospital," admitted to hospital on February 16 as a Sandringham after suffering chest pains in custody until the next court hearing Buckingham Palace said in a statement. “precautionary measure” after feeling as the royal family was preparing for on May 31, it means that a majority of "His Royal Highness will remain in unwell. The exact reason for his Christmas. He was treated for a blocked Hong Kong's pro-democracy figures hospital for treatment, rest and admission was not disclosed, but it was coronary artery at Papworth Hospital in will now be in jail or in self-exile recuperation for a number of days," the confirmed that it did not relate to Cambridgeshire and had a stent fitted. abroad amid an ongoing crackdown on statement added. coronavirus. Four days later, he was He retired from official royal duties in dissent in the semi-autonomous St. Bartholomew's Hospital in the City visited by his eldest son Prince Charles, 2017. PTI Chinese city. AP THE INDIAN PANORAMA WOMEN FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 24

CONNOISSEUR’S Here’s how to shed the CHOICE ‘lockdown kilos’ he coronavirus virus lockdown took a toll on our By Tript Arora mental as well as physical well-being. The Tquarantine period was a tough one for people. There is a steep rise in the number of people who have gained oodles of weight during the pandemic, owing to Cream chicken many challenges and disruption in their regular laying a host for non routine. vegetarian guests is Long work from home hours contributed to a Pincomplete without sedentary lifestyle where people were required to sit for serving a delectable dish of hours without any movement. Furthermore, less sleep, chicken. Today we are making a stress, unhealthy diet and overeating also contributed main course dish- Cream to weight gain. The fact that gyms were closed didn't chicken. This is a very sought help either. The quarantine period also led to change in after recipe. People eat it with mental states that contributed to emotional eating and bread, buns, paav, chapati, people struggled to stick to their fitness routine. naan...the list is endless. But I There are various reasons behind why people must like it with bread the most. The have piled up those excess kilos during the coronavirus cooking process of this dish is so lockdown, say experts. They attribute a sedentary simple that you can easily make lifestyle, lack of physical activity and movement, faulty this dish whenever you are eating habits, and stress to be the culprits behind entertaining guests or for weight gain. yourself on some special occasions. As it is rich in calories so I "Weight gain happens when your daily calorie intake suggest you reserve it for special occasions, we all know that surpasses your expenditure. The amount of calories burning calories is a Herculean task. Cream Chicken as the consumed during Lockdown on a daily basis was very Yes, it is understood that you're eating habits must have name suggests is made with lots of cream and butter. But in my high. People were not used to consuming food together gone for a toss so it is essential for you to avoid binging recipe I have substituted it with milk. The taste will differ on a daily basis for such a long period of time. Right or emotional eating. Plan what you will have for because of the richness of cream. But milk makes this dish light from morning teas to evening snacks, breakfast, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you get any mid-night to digest by cutting those extra calories. It is purely your choice lunches, dinners and late night snacks or desserts all cravings then try to indulge in healthy options like as to whether to use cream or milk. I have given the measure of were made and consumed," explains Dr Kiran yogurt, crackers, makhana, and try to drink a lot of both. So pamper yourself with this amazing cream chicken. Rukadikar, Founder, DietQueen. water. Try to limit junk, spicy,oily,and processed foods. Set proper meal timings. Do not eat your dinner late We Need Try to de-stress and then sleep immediately. Portion control is equally 600 gm Chicken, 1 Tbsp Ginger garlic paste, 3 Tbs Thick Curd( It is a known fact that stress can give a tough time to important. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables to stay hale Dahi), 2 Medium sized Onions, 2 Green chillies( chopped finely) your body. Likewise, many studies also suggest that and hearty. or crush them with ginger & garlic, 10 Cashews, 2 Tbsp Cream stress can invite weight gain. If the reason behind your Or Malayi and 1 Cup Milk, Or Alternately use 200gm cream only. weight gain is stress then you need to calm down. It will Walk around at home 1 Tbsp Kasuri Methi, 1 Tbsp freshly crushed Black Pepper, 3 be imperative for you to improve your resilience. Try to If you are working from home and are required to Green Cardamoms, 4 Cloves, 1" Piece of Dalchini, 2Tbsp Butter, motivate and support yourself when a challenging talk on the phone then just try to walk around your 2 Tbsp Cooking Oil, Salt to taste. situation arises. You can de-stress can opting for yoga house while doing so. Common, after all, it will be good and meditation. You can also try some breathing for you, right? Try to set a target every day and see to it Preparation exercises that will help you calm down. You can do what that you complete it. Set smaller goals. It is the need of „ Clean Chicken and give diagonal cuts with the knife. you like. Just listen to the music to unwind, dance, cook the hour to exercise at home. You can also do other „ Chop the onions roughly and pressure cook them along or do gardening. Follow a proper routine. activities such as aerobics, weight training, or Zumba with Cashews and ½ cup water upto 2 whistles. When at home. cooled, Grind them to a fine paste Journaling can be a good idea Eat in moderation, reduce high calorie fried foods „ Put the curd in a strainer for 5 minutes to drain extra You will have to write down whatever you eat, how and sweets. Your kitchen is the beat weight loss centre, water. Mix salt and pepper in curd and whisk it . much oil you use, or what you have during your snacks. and Balanced Home Diet is the best diet. Source: IANS „ Crush whole spices in mortar and pestle. Here We go Put a Heavy bottomed pan or kadhai on flame. When a little warm, add butter and oil. The flame should be on medium so Ways to hydrate dry and breaking hair that butter should not get burned. Add the whole spices to it and saute for 1 min. et us start with what is dry hair. Your hair is dry When the spices start spluttering, add Ginger garlic and green when it lacks or loses the ability to retain chilli paste. Saute till fragrant. It will take a minute or so. Now Lmoisture, leaving your hair dry and brittle. This Add Chicken to the pan and saute on high flame for 2 minutes till in return leads to hair breakage with your hair the pieces turn white in colour. This process is done to seal the appearing dull and unhealthy. juices. Now add curd mixture and saute for 3 to 4 minutes. The chicken will be well coated with curd mixture. Cover the pan and Reasons for dry hair cook on slow fire for 10 min. Or till the chicken is almost done. „ Excessive use of heat styling tools, incorrectly or Keep on turning it in between. without proper knowledge Time to add the boiled onion and cashew paste. Since both „ Environmental factors, like dust, UV rays of the onion and cashew are cooked, saute it on medium flame till the sun, etc. chicken is fully coated with this mixture roughly for 2 to 3 „ Using hair accessories like metal clips or hair ties minutes on low flame. Cover the pan and cook till the flesh of the causing constant friction, leading to breakage of chicken leaves its bone. Yes, that is the test to check that chicken hair is well cooked. Add Cream or malai and mix thoroughly.If using „ Undergoing chemical treatment, like hair only cream then switch off the flame immediately after adding smoothening, hair coloring, pre-lightening, etc it. But if you are using malai and milk, then add malai first and without professional guidance post the consultation with an expert or a specialist then add milk and let it simmer for 3 to 4 min on slow flame. „ Using harsh chemical shampoos and conditioners and under their supervision only. This is because When done add Kasuri Methi and switch off the flame. Your which are not suitable for your hair the experts will examine and understand your Cream chicken is ready to serve. hair condition, after which they will suggest the Treatment for dry hair right chemical treatment to go for. This will help Tips „ Taking intensive hair spa treatment on a regular you to get desired results while maintaining hair Avoid browning any ingredient in this recipe. It will spoil the basis helps in nourishing and hydrating dry hair. moisture and avoiding damage and breakage colour of the dish. The Intense Hair Spa, which is customized to your When saute-ing Ginger garlic paste, add a little water if it specific hair concern, done even as often as once a „ Whenever heat styling tools are used make sure sticks to the bottom of the pan. week works wonders in treating dry hair. It works you use heat protection on hair before styling. on the bond and on the molecular structure of the Never use heat styling tools without hair You Can reach me at: www.triptasfoodtunnel.com hair for intense hydration protection as they can dry your hair further and Email : [email protected]. „ Any chemical treatment for hair should be done cause breakage Instagram: @triptasfoodtunnel THE INDIAN PANORAMA HEALTH FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 25 Pfizer, Oxford vaccines reduce severe COVID-19 in elderly, study finds

he Pfizer and Oxford- AstraZeneca vaccines for TCOVID-19 are highly effective in reducing severe coronavirus infection among people aged 70 years and above, according to a Best time to have fruit study. The research, posted as a pre- print and yet to be peer-reviewed, juices and fruits estimated the effect of both the COVID-19 vaccines on the ruits and fruit juices are considered healthy and laboratory-confirmed symptomatic hence advised to be consumed as part of one’s disease in individuals aged 70 years Fdaily routine. But one needs to take care of how or older in England. and when they are consumed for optimum nutritional The researchers, including those benefits. This is because fruit juices are high in sugar from Public Health England (PHE), that can lead to increased blood sugar levels and compared the rate of insulin spike resulting in high-fat percentage in the hospitalisation and deaths in body and hence, weight gain, as per nutritionist and confirmed COVID-19 patients aged lifestyle educator Karishma Chawla. over 80 who were vaccinated more Fruit juices are sometimes also categorised under than 14 days before testing positive, the spectrum of sugary sodas since they are high on with unvaccinated cases. sugar, mentioned Chawla. Data suggests that in the over 80s, “Fruit juices are often consumed on a raw food diet, a single dose of either vaccine is cases in older adults with even lives,” Mary Ramsay, PHE Head of most likely in the summers where the body prefers more than 80 per cent effective at greater protection against severe Immunisation, said in the statement. more cooling foods like fruits, smoothies and salads. preventing hospitalisation, around disease,” said the authors of the “While there remains much more But, the emphasis should be on cooling foods that are 3 to 4 weeks after the jab, PHE said study, adding both the vaccines show data to follow, this is encouraging and healthy, rather than indulging in fruit juices that are in a statement. similar effects. They said the we are increasingly confident that high in sugar and override the nutritional benefits of Evidence for the Pfizer vaccine protection was maintained for the vaccines are making a real the fruit itself,” she said. suggests that it leads to an 83 per cent duration of over six weeks of follow- difference,” Ramsay said. According to the nutritionist, fruit juices can be reduction in deaths from COVID-19, it up, and there is a clear effect of both However, she cautioned that the consumed post a vigorous exercise session to replenish said. the vaccines against the UK variant protection is not complete and it is the body with the necessary nutrients and natural The data also shows symptomatic of concern. not known yet how much these sugars. infections in over 70s decreased from Experts say the new analysis adds vaccines will reduce the risk of around three weeks after one dose of to growing evidence that the vaccines someone passing the coronavirus What about fruits? both vaccines. are working, and are highly effective onto others. “Even if you have been „ Fruits are the seed-bearing structures formed “Vaccination with either a single in protecting people against severe vaccinated, it is really important that from the ovary after flowering. They are generally dose of Pfizer or Oxford-AstraZeneca illness, hospitalisation and death. you continue to act like you have the fleshy and are highly valued for their distinctive COVID-19 vaccination was associated “This adds to growing evidence virus, practise good hand hygiene flavour, taste, freshness, juiciness, colour, texture with a significant reduction in showing that the vaccines are and stay at home,” Ramsay added. and nutrition. They are considered to be very symptomatic SARS-CoV2 positive working to reduce infections and save Source: PTI healthy and are widely consumed when one is not feeling well, attributing to the presence of numerous phytochemicals and other bioactive compounds,” said Chawla. „ Fruits are best consumed whole rather than in juice form. Whole fruit is high in fibre and does Kidney stones linked to bone not lead to high blood sugar levels or insulin spike. „ The best time to consume fruits is in the first half problems: Study of the day. Ideal thing would be to finish consuming fruits by 12 pm. „ Fruits must be avoided over a meal since it will eople with kidney stones may be at risk of result in a further increase in blood sugar levels. osteoporosis or bone fracture, says a new study. Also, fruits after a meal can lead to indigestion PThe study,published in the Journal of Bone and and discomfort. Mineral Research, found that approximately one- „ Fruits can added to vegetable smoothie to add quarter of individuals with kidney stones had a natural sugar to the drink and also detoxify the diagnosis of osteoporosis or bone fracture around the liver. You can make a smoothie of spinach with time of their kidney stone diagnosis. apple, orange or some berries with some ginger “We hope this work raises awareness regarding the and a pinch of salt. Source: The Indian Express possibility of reduced bone strength in patients with kidney stones,” said lead author Calyani Ganesan from Stanford University in the US. PAGE SPONSORED BY For the study, the team identified 531,431 patients with kidney stone disease between 2007 and 2015. DR. SATISH AND GITANJLI ANAND The team found that 23.6 per cent of patients had a diagnosis of osteoporosis or fracture around the time DR. SATISH ANAND of their kidney stone diagnosis. Former Chairman, Board of In patients with no prior history of osteoporosis or Trustees, AAPI National bone analyses before their kidney stone diagnosis, 9.1 E-Mail: per cent received a bone density scan after a kidney [email protected] stone diagnosis, of whom 20 per cent were subsequently diagnosed with osteoporosis. The findings provide support for wider use of bone “In our future work, we hope to identify which GITANJLI ANAND density screening in individuals with kidney stones, patients with kidney stones are at higher risk for Former President, India including middle-aged and older men who may not be osteoporosis or fracture to help guide bone density Association of Long Island recognised as at-risk for osteoporosis or fracture, the screening efforts by clinicians in this population,” (IALI) researchers said. Ganesan added. Source: IANS E-mail: [email protected] THE INDIAN PANORAMA SCIENCE & TECH FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 26 Google won’t Twitter announces new feature that use other web tracking tools would let users charge followers etizens went berserk over a after phasing controversial new Twitter feature Ncalled “Super Follower” that will let famous personalities and celebrities out cookies on the platform monetise their tweets by lphabet Inc's Google will not charging their followers and, in turn, build or use alternate tools to will help the micro-blogging platform Atrack web browsing traffic once grow its overall revenue. Ironically, the it begins phasing out existing phrase “RIP Twitter” was trending all technology from its Chrome browser over on the most popular micro-blogging next year, it said in a blog post on platform and people said the company Wednesday, in a move that will reshape must push for an ‘edit’ button, not a how online advertising works. feature that will hurt common users the Google first announced it would get most. Also Read - Pavitra Punia Lashes rid of third-party cookies, which for Out At Trolls For Questioning Her decades has enabled online ads, early Relationship With Eijaz Khan, Says last year to meet growing data privacy 'Haters Approval Not Needed' standards in Europe and the United During its Analysts Day virtual event States.Privacy activists for years have late on Thursday, Twitter showed a slide criticized tech companies including that read: “We’re rethinking incentives Google for using cookies to gather web and exploring solutions to provide browsing records across websites they monetary incentive models for Creators don't own, enabling them to develop and Publishers to be directly supported profiles on users' interests to serve by their audience”. personalized ads. The “Super Follower” tool will only be Now, Google is pledging it will not use beneficial for those who have a sizable other technology to replace the cookie chunk of followers. or build features inside Chrome to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey said during allow itself access to that data, though the virtual event that the company aims it continues to test ways for businesses to more than double its total annual to target ads to large groups of revenue to over $7.5 billion in 2023 with at anonymous users with common least 315 million mDAU (monetisable interests. daily active users). total annual revenue to over $7.5 billion “We have a goal of at least 315 million Dorsey said that the company plans to in 2023. This requires us to gain market mDAU in the fourth quarter of 2023, double its development velocity by the share with performance ads, grow brand which requires continued compounding Microsoft end of 2023, resulting in doubling the advertising, and expand our products to growth at about 20 per cent per year from number of features per employee that small and medium sized businesses the base of 152 million mDAU we directly drive either mDAU or revenue. throughout the world,” the Twitter CEO reported in the fourth quarter of 2019”, Garage “Our goal is to more than double our added. he noted. launches Group Transcribe app Truecaller launches Guardians app for in-person ruecaller is using its learnings from crowdsourcing protection against spam to ensure personal safety with a new standalone Tapp called Guardians. “Truecaller is a product that solves the conversations mistrust in communication. And this could be a good opportunity for icrosoft has introduced a new us to think about this as a separate product because they are quite application called Group different but solving the same problem,” Alan Mamedi, CEO & Co- MTranscribe that offers real-time founder of True Software Scandinavia AB told indianexpress.com. transcriptions of in-person meetings Mamedi said that with the kind of reach Truecaller has — 200 of its and conversations. The app has been 270 million active users are in India — they know the problem of developed by Microsoft’s in-house women’s safety well. “It’s now time to do something about making incubator, Microsoft Garage. It is our cities safer for everyone.” Isro launches 19 currently available on iOS for free. After a simple onboarding process, the app lets users select their The application also differentiates personal Guardians from the contact list and choose when to satellites with Bhagavad itself from other transcribe apps like stop/start sharing location and setup permanent sharing with Otter.ai and Google’s Recorder by selected Guardians. taking a collaborative approach. The While this will let the guardians know where the user is at any Gita, PM’s photo app allows participants in a meeting to given point of time, in an emergency situation users can tap the he Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) record on their own devices emergency button to notify all of them about the location and successfully launched the Brazil's Amazonia-1 simultaneously. To begin, one will have situation. There is also the option to seek help from designated Tsatellite Sunday. Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle to initiate the recording and invite community guardians, even as Truecaller tries to onboard local law (PSLV) C51 mission carried the earth observation others through Bluetooth or a link or a enforcement to the app. Source: The Indian Express satellite along with 18 co-passenger satellites, including scannable QR code. Once other a nanosatellite from Isro, three UnitySats by an participants join, they’d see real-time academic consortium, and a demonstration satellite by transcription on their phone. another start-up, Pixxel (incorporated as Syzygy Space Microsoft recommends that Technologies). participants should use their own In a first, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s picture phone “within arm’s reach” for the best has been engraved on the top panel of the spacecraft quality experience. The FAQ section Satish Dhawan Sat (SD SAT), one of the co-passenger further reveals the app does not cap the satellites from Chennai-based Space Kidz India (SKI). number of participants but works best "This is to show solidarity and gratitude for his (PM's) for “in-person meetings with up to four Aatmanirbhar initiative and space privatisation", SKI people.”Microsoft’s Group Transcribe had earlier said. The satellite also carries Bhagavad app supports more than 80 languages Gita in SD (secured digital) card. including Hindi, German, Greek, The nanosatellite also carries three scientific Japanese, Russian, Swedish, Arabic payloads — one to study space radiation, one to study and French among others. The app also the magnetosphere, and another that will demonstrate offers real-time translation. a low-power wide-area communication network. THE INDIAN PANORAMA BUSINESS FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 27 Volvo To Make Bitcoin is at Disney to shut 60 North a ‘tipping Only Electric American stores, 20% point’, Citi Vehicles By says of global total itcoin is at a 2030 "tipping point" and olvo says it will make only Bcould in the future electric vehicles by 2030. But if become the preferred Vyou want one, you'll have to buy currency for it online. The Swedish automaker said international trade or on Tuesday that it is phasing out the face a "speculative production of all cars with internal implosion," Citi analysts combustion engines — including said. hybrids. With the recent “There is no long-term future for embrace by the likes of cars with an internal combustion Tesla Inc and Mastercard engine,” said Henrik Green, Volvo's Inc, bitcoin could be at chief technology officer. the start of a "massive Volvo's announcement follows transformation" into the General Motors’ pledge earlier this mainstream, Citi said in a year to make only battery-powered report. vehicles by 2035. The growing Volvo also said that, while its all- involvement from electric vehicles will be sold institutional investors in exclusively online, dealerships will recent years contrasts “remain a crucial part of the with heavy retail-focus customer experience and will for most of the past continue to be responsible for a decade, it added. variety of important services such as If businesses and selling, preparing, delivering and individuals gain access servicing cars.” As part of the alt Disney Co. plans to close more than Disney’s consumer products, games and via digital wallets to announcement Tuesday, the Swedish 60 of its North American Disney publishing unit, said in a statement. planned central bank automaker will unveil its second fully Wstores, eliminating roughly 20% of its Disney is one of the world’s largest licensing digital cash and so-called electric car, a follow-up to last year's global footprint, as it focuses more on e- companies. But sales at its merchandise stablecoins, bitcoin's XC40 Recharge, a compact SUV. Volvo commerce. licensing and retail business fell 7% last year to global reach, traceability said its goal is to have half of its The company has about 300 Disney stores $4.18 billion, in large part due to store closures and potential for quick global sales to be fully electric cars by now, a number that has shrunk dramatically related to the pandemic. payments would see it 2025, with the remaining half made over the years as the world’s largest The Disney chain debuted in 1987, and the "optimally positioned" to up of hybrids. Source: AP entertainment company experimented with stores were once a staple of U.S. shopping become the preferred different ways to get its merchandise to fans. malls. At one point, Disney sold its North currency for As part of a push to rely less on its own brick- American locations to the Children’s Place international trade, Citi and-mortar shops, Disney has made its website Retail Stores Inc., a kid-focused retailer, before said. more consumer-friendly and opened boutiques taking them back after the business suffered Bitcoin, designed as a within other retailers. Including stores in its financial problems. More recently,it added new payment tool, is little theme parks and those owned by others, the features to some locations, such as live used for commerce in company has about 600 retail locations globally. broadcasts of parades from Disney parks. major economies, Disney is also evaluating the shutdown of The company didn’t say how many jobs hampered by high European stores as it rethinks its retail would be impacted. volatility and relatively strategy. Disney shares were little changed in costly transactions. Still, “While consumer behavior has shifted extended trading after the announcement. They it has over the past year toward online shopping, the global pandemic fell less than 1% to $192.26 at the close gained traction in some has changed what consumers expect from a Wednesday in New York. emerging markets such as retailer,” Stephanie Young, president of Source: Bloomberg Nigeria.

India adds 40 billionaires in India woos Tesla with offer of pandemic year; Adani, Ambani see cheaper output cost

rise in wealth: Report NEW DELHI (TIP): India is ready to MUMBAI (TIP): Forty Indian economy is set to offer incentives to ensure Tesla Inc's cost Indians entered the contract by over 7 per cent of production would be less than in billionaires’ club in the because of the impact of China if the carmaker commits to pandemic-stricken 2020 to the pandemic, which had making its electric vehicles in the south take the number of those forced governments to go Asian country, Transport Minister Nitin in the coveted list to 177 for lockdowns that had a Gadkari said. people, a report said. debilitating impact on the Gadkari's pitch comes weeks after Mukesh Ambani poor. billionaire Elon Musk's Tesla registered continued to be the The report comes at a a company in India in a step towards wealthiest Indian with a time when concerns are entering the country, possibly as soon as net worth of USD 83 his wealth almost doubling being raised about a ‘K- mid-2021. Sources familiar with the lowest when compared with the world, billion. The head of to USD 32 billion in 2020 shaped’ recovery being matter have said Tesla plans to start by even China, when they start Reliance Industries and climbed 20 places to be underway, where a select importing and selling its Model 3 electric manufacturing their cars in India. We witnessed a 24 per cent the 48th richest person few prosper. sedan in India. will assure that," he said. jump in fortunes and globally and the second Hurun India’s Managing "Rather than assembling (the cars) in India wants to boost local climbed up one spot to be wealthiest Indian. His Director and Chief India they should make the entire manufacturing of electric vehicles the eighth richest globally, brother Vinod’s wealth Researcher Anas Rahman product in the country by hiring local (EVs), batteries and other components to as per the Hurun Global grew 128 per cent to USD Junaid said Indian wealth vendors. Then we can give higher cut costly imports and curb pollution in Rich List. 9.8 billion. creation is dominated by concessions," Gadkari said in an its major cities. Gautam Adani from The report compiles cyclical or traditional interview, without giving details of what This comes amid a global race by Gujarat, who has had a individual or family wealth industries compared to incentives would be on offer. carmakers to jump-start EV production spectacular rise in fortunes in the year to January 15. It tech-driven wealth creation "The government will make sure the as countries work towards cutting in the last few years, saw can be noted that the in the US and China. production cost for Tesla will be the carbon emissions. Source: Reuters THE INDIAN PANORAMA ASTROLOGY FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 28 Shree Ganeshaya Namah

By Vedic Astrologer Nastur Bejan Daruwalla is available for astrological consultations. He can be reached at [email protected] and on phone +91 8141234275 for astrological queries VEDIC ASTROLOGER NASTUR BEJAN DARUWALLA www.bejandaruwalla.com Chirag Bejan Daruwalla with his father late Bejan Daruwalla

TIP brings you Weekly and Birthday Horoscope from the WEEKLY HOROSCOPE World's most trusted Vedic Astrologer Nastur Bejan Daruwalla. March 8 - March 14, 2021

ARIES : This week will be a content week for you. week. The consequences of the immense amount of this week to focus entirely on yourself: your health, Your partner will be very content and happy with your happiness that you're feeling this week will be seen in spirituality, goals and aspirations. Althoughyou will be behavior this week. The possibility of taking the next your health as well as your personal life. loved by your partner, you won't have time for anything step in your relationship is quite high this week. Your VIRGO : Your business is the most positive highlight and this week you should focus on yourself. partner is most likely to initiate the proposal of the week this week. You will experience a positive SAGITTARIUS : Your health is doing so much considering how happy and content they are with you shift in your finances which will brighten up your entire better this week than the last few weeks. You will feel this week which is a positive thing. Taking time to relax week. You will find a lot of interesting and lucrative like an agile person this week as you go through the and unwind will prove beneficial. startups where you would like to invest in. You're very week full of energy and enthusiasm. Your health has TAURUS : An entirely new and different work lucky this week when it comes to your business, finally healed and it is very likely to stay better. Your opportunity will open up for you which will bring a finances and health. Your partner will surprise you this social anxiety will be bothersome for you this week. chain of opportunities in the near future itself. You need week with a gift you have been wanting for a while now, Making you want to escape every to think out of the box as well as go the extra mile to being close with this partner will benefit you a lot in CAPRICORN : Your love life is a very positive aspect reap maximum benefits from this opportunity.You will long term. Your current work will pay you off well this of your week this week. Venus is really on your sign's have a great time with your loved ones and your partner week as well. side this week hence if you're single, you're most likely this week. You will make great profits in your business LIBRA : You will spread cheer and happiness to meet your partner this week. A new love interests will as well, hence all in all a good week for you this week. everywhere you go and everyone that you meet this arise. Chose wisely and investigate well. Venus will stay GEMINI : You will be rewarded for hard work week, will become happy and feel at peace in your at your side throughout the week and plenty of regarding a project that you have been working on for a energy. This week will go far better than your past few opportunities will come along. long time which will set a very positive tone of the week weeks. You are feeling mentally at your level best this AQUARIUS : Your hard work will pay off this week; for you this week. Other aspects of your life might not be week. New prospects in terms of sponsorship will help if you're looking for a great paying job, you're likely to progressing but they are doing fine.Your love life is you move forward in your business. You will have a get a high paying job this week. If you're planning a new progressing Very fast. Taking the next step will be a week full of doing things you love and spending time business venture, a new important prospect is very good idea this week as Venus is in your support. with your favorite side of the family in your favorite likely to arise immediately as you launch your new CANCER : Your good behavior will be rewarded very place, most probably your old home. A lot of exercises in venture or even if you already have a well-established well with your partner and your family as well. This form of games will make you really happy too. business. week you are needed to be the positive light in people's SCORPIO : You will have immense support from PISCES : Be extremely understanding and empathic, life be it your friends or your family. Great positive your business partner this week. They will work with the new people that come your way.An anxiety-free energies are aligned in your favor. You need to do the throughout the week this week and won't be in your way mind keeps you high on love and this may lead to hard work to achieve great success in your professional this week. They have skill or expertise in your business amazing times with your soul mate this week. You won't life. If you chose to work hard this week, the financial they will help you by managing things at work and at face any major problems in your life this week as only profit you will make this week will last you a long time. home. After a long tiring week, you will be welcomed to good things in your life are on your way this week. You LEO: Your business associates will be very content a nice warm meal of all of your favorite foods.Your will spend a lot of quality time with your loved one. Your and happy with your work this week. The possibility of unceasing will to win and leadership skills will help you health will be good this week and you will work on your business expanding internationally is quite high move past any hurdles with much appreciation at the improving it even more. Even though you will have a lot this week. Hence your business will do just amazing this end of the week. Use the tremendous energy you have of work this week, it will be very fruitful for you.

members that you don't really like hence you might have extremely irritated and annoyed with today's BIRTHDAY HOROSCOPE trouble keeping a straight face and not throwing a unfortunate turn of events you will end up having a lot March 8 - March 14, 2021 tantrum today.If you actually look at the positives today, of fun at the end of the day today. it's not a bad day; it just has some bad parts. You will MARCH 13 : You will feel extremely loved and MARCH 8 : Today is a day full of joy cheer and only be able to enjoy today if look at the 'glass full' side appreciated today, which will boost your confidence. grandiose celebrations for you. Not only it is a defining of it. Today your partner will make you feel like you're worth day in your professional life as today will mark the day MARCH 11 : A very heartfelt day for you today as a a lot more than you have been given to date. Today you your finances skyrocket, but your personal life feels a lot of your friends will take out the time to come and and your partner will both realize how compatible both safe haven to you as well. Everything will seem picture meet you. As you go through today,you will realize that of you are in terms of food choices, spending habits as perfect today but not too good to be true as you have you were over thinking about being unwanted and well as have hobbies hence you will spend a fun day worked really hard for the success you have today, and annoying, while in reality, everyone enjoys your with the love of your life today. you most definitely deserve it. company, this realization will bring you great joy and MARCH 14: Your confidence as usual will carry you MARCH 9 : You will have a beautiful start to your curb your anxiety. through a tough day and make it look effortless. You day with surprises and gifts all surrounding your bed MARCH 12 : You will have a very busy yet ordinary will face quite a lot of obstacles today that will take as you wake up. The surprises will go on throughout the day at work today, even though you want to celebrate most of your time and energy, but you will end up day and you will receive more than you expected in today with your loved ones you won't have much time feeling triumphant hence you will have a great end to form of gifts and visits from your loved ones today. today especially till the evening as an unexpected and your day today. Especially your partner and your MARCH 10 : Today might seem a little bit boring to huge amount of workload will be piled up on you due to parents will be standing by your side today and you as you will be forced to hang out with some family absence of a colleague. Even though you will be celebrate your day with you. THE INDIAN PANORAMA TURN PAGE FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 29 Queens BP Donovan Richards dwells on Covid and development in his first State of the Borough address

CONTD FROM PAGE 3 ● Expand the Jamaica Bus Depot to dramatically innovation labs. improve bus service for Queens commuters. ● Leverage the Queens Borough President's Office's ● Promote supportive housing for Queens' veterans. ● Call on the MTA make the Long Island Rail Road's budget to invest in solar power and battery storage ● Establish a working group of New York City Atlantic Ticket program permanent, complete at city-owned buildings in Queens, making them Housing Authority (NYCHA) Tenant Association with a free subway transfer. fully green by 2030. presidents to ensure an open line of ● Expand the city's Open Streets program in ● Ensure the full implementation of the Climate communication between the Queens Borough partnership with the NYC Department of Mobilization Act. President's Office and NYCHA residents. Transportation, the NYC Department of ● Create renewable energy hubs at Rikers Island, the ● Invest in NYCHA campuses using the Queens Consumer and Worker Protection and the Street former Edgemere Landfill site and the Creedmoor Borough President's Office's budget. Vendor Project - prioritizing school campuses and campus to help eliminate Queens' dependence on ● Advocate for a partnership between the city and communities lacking green space, while fast- nonrenewable energy by 2030. federal governments to purchase foreclosed tracking licenses for food vendors to operate there. ● Partner with federal and state entities to invest in homes, work with area nonprofits to refurbish Hate Crimes long-term resiliency measures for Queens to them and help provide affordable houses to first- defend against climate change. time homebuyers. ● Demand the NYPD overhaul the threshold of what ● Fight for a Green New Deal for our public housing ● Encourage a doubling of the city's investment in constitutes a hate crime developments. Community Land Trusts to give communities ● Encourage the City to increase funding for the Community Boards/Appointments control over their land and keep local housing NYC Commission on Human Rights' Bias affordable. Response Team to help dispel and combat hate. ● Overhaul Queens community boards -prioritizing Transportation ● Call for the creation of a central database to allow board diversity, member conduct, public for information sharing between relevant City engagement and the modernization of bylaws to ● Complete the long-stalled redesign of Queens agencies and law enforcement, better informing deliver a long-overdue level of transparency for Boulevard in Kew Gardens. the City's ability to address bias crimes. our 14 community boards. ● Create a two-way bike lane on the Queensboro Immigrant Welcome Center ● Digitize the Queens community board application Bridge. - resulting in a 56.5 percent increase in ● Establish a network of bike storage hubs outside ● Establish an Immigrant Welcome Center at applications from last year. Queens subway stations to encourage multi-modal Queens Borough Hall, connecting new and ● Continuing to ensure the Queens Borough transportation. longtime residents of Queens alike to a wide President Office's Queens General Assembly, the ● Speed up the boroughwide rollout of Citi Bike. variety of services in support of our immigrant Queens Immigration Task Force, the Queens Civic ● Explore making all Queens bridges more families. Engagement Committee, or any other convening accessible to cyclists. Sustainability body reflect the diversity of the borough. ● Work with the NYC Department of Transportation Watch the video of the BP's address. to establish a Five-Borough Bikeway. ● Reestablish the Queens Solid Waste Advisory ● Establish additional busways along center Board - a diverse group of residents and industry https://youtu.be/xPv5Ka0UFv0 medians of high-trafficked corridors such as representatives tasked with advising the Borough Follow the Office of the Queens Borough President Archer Avenue in Jamaica, along with all-door President on issues such as waste, recycling, via @QnsBPRichards on Twitter and boarding, to speed up the commutes of thousands resiliency and environmental equity. @QueensBPRichards on Facebook and Instagram ● of Queens riders. Partner with higher education institutions, (Based on a press release) ● Call on the MTA to quickly convert its full bus fleet private entities and the Queens Economic to all electric vehicles. Development Corporation to create sustainability contd from page 1 are known as sanctuary laws expressly report said. 14, the Tiranga Rally's chief organizer Justice Dept. asks Supreme forbidding police to provide information Police are investigating whether the and admin of the Facebook group about non-citizens in their custody. incident was a result of racial and "Indian Diaspora in Sydney", Yogesh Court to... Supporters said the laws make political tension. They are still trying to Khattar, said there was no intention to custody were about to be released. The communities safer by encouraging identify those men involved and are head towards a Gurdwara. government also wanted access to local undocumented victims of crime to asking for anyone who might have "We had no plans or designs to jails so immigration agents could cooperate with police. (Source: NBC information to come forward, the report disrespect or target any individual, question non-citizens in custody. News) added. group or place of worship. We are In brief letters to the Supreme Court, "We are coming down hard to make peaceful people and strong believers of the Justice Department said the cases Australia threatens sure there is no further violence," multiculturalism and want to spread should be dismissed, indicating that the deportations after... Assistant Police Commissioner Peter harmony in the community," he told the government will no longer seek to Thurtell said. media. (Source: PTI) enforce that policy. suppression of dissent in dealing with "It is a small minority.But my message The Trump administration was at odds the legitimate demands of farmers. to them is under no circumstances will with many major cities over federal It all started with a pro-farm Bill rally the NSW Police tolerate it," Thurtell detainer requests, issued by U.S. billed as "Tiranga Yatra" followed by added. Immigration and Customs enforcement, another such rally that provocatively Meanwhile, the Australian Alliance asking local police and sheriff's offices to stopped in front of a Gurdwara. Against Hate and Violence has held a hold jail inmates for up to 48 hours after In both cases, the rally organizers and press conference to raise awareness of they have completed serving their members of the Sikh community have the growing threat that Hindu far right sentences. The requests applied to people traded charges of intimidation. extremism poses to social cohesion in in the U.S. illegally who were convicted In the next two incidents, there was no Australia. The organization which held of committing local crimes and could be doubt about the targeted community. the press conference outside the deported after they were released. In one, a Sikh youth was chased on the Consulate General of India, offered After federal courts blocked that effort, streets and in the latest incident support for the agitating farmers in the Justice Department instead sought captured on CCTV, a group of Sikh men India. advance notice before non-citizens were flee a gang, who smashed up their car Former legislator of New South Wales released, spawning a new round of with bats and hammers while they were David Shoebridge has wondered what lawsuits. still inside. has happened to the land of Gandhi Several lower federal courts said that Police have been holding meetings "which has suddenly been filled with so local officials have no duty to help with community leaders calling for calm much of hate". immigration agents enforce federal law, while exact motives behind this latest In one instance of tensions within and some states and cities passed what violence are being investigated, the Sydney's Indian community on February THE INDIAN PANORAMA CLASSIFIEDS FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 30 THE INDIAN PANORAMA SPIRITUALITY FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 31 Goddess Bhuvaneshwari – Queen of the Universe

oddess Bhuvaneshwari is the fourth amongst ten Mahavidyas, an aspect of Adi Shakti. Das GMahavidyas, ten wisdom goddesses are the ten forms of Divine Mother, Adi Shakti. Bhuvaneshwari Devi is the mother of the solar systems and the creator of the space; she changed all the creation as a universal truth by sustaining and protecting them too. She is the consort of Lord Shiva and the Goddess of the Universe. Goddess Bhuvaneshwari is believed as the supreme goddess who creates everything and destroys the evils of the world according to Devi Bhagavatam. One who worships Goddess Bhuvaneshwari is blessed with power, strength, wisdom, and wealth. Devi Bhuvaneshwari is also known with other names such as Kali, Chandika, Parvati, Durga, and many more. Origin of Devi Bhuvaneshvari Before anything existed, it was the sun that appeared in the heavens. The rishis begged to create more worlds and offered soma to Lord Surya, master of the sky.Lord Surya was pleased and through the power of Supreme Energy, he created the three worlds. Having created the worlds, the goddess appeared in the form of Bhuvaneshwari. Then she ruled and protected the three worlds. Bhuvaneshwari – Meaning The word Bhuvaneshwari is a Sanskrit word composed up of two terms: Bhuvana and Ishwari. Bhuvan denotes the worlds of the universe, and Ishwari is the feminine form of the lord or the ruler. Thus, Bhuvaneshwari is known as the Ruler of the universe where the worlds are the tri-Bhuvan or three regions of bhu (earth), bhuva (atmosphere), and sva (heavens). Goddess Bhuvaneshwari is connected with Mother Earth, Prithvi as per the sacred hymns of the Rig Veda. In the Puranas, she is inherently connected with the Varaha Avatar of Vishnu. She is also the creator of Prakriti or nature. She commands the whole universe and controls the influence of turning the situation as per her desire. The appearance Maa Bhuvaneshwari Devi appears with a smiling face. She has one face, three eyes, a delicate nose, and four hands. Two of her hands bless the devotees and symbol of refuge and fearlessness while the other two hold the noose to draw the devotee closer to her and Angusam to rid the devotee of their sufferings. Her smiling face is meant to cheer-up devotees for happiness. Her body is stunning and shining with jewels. She wears Moon in the form of her crown. She is red and found seated on a Lotus flower throne. Symbol of love The following benefits can be achieved by worshiping PAGE SPONSORED BY She is considered to be the Goddess of Love as the Goddess Bhuvaneshwari. Iccha Shakti. She creates the power of love, space, gives „ Blessed with a mesmerizing personality ARISH K. SAHANI freedom, as unattached love has no boundaries. She „ All-round financial prosperity and stability Serving Since 1972 plays the role of creator and protector as well. It is „ Remove obstacles in obtaining a house, vehicle, believed that one who worships her with a true heart etc. Please Call or Write for Your and prayers over her regularly is blessed with 64 divine „ Give courage, confidence, and sensitivity Insurance Needs virtues. The worshipper of goddess Bhuvansehwar is „ Protects devotees against the negative influences Arish K Sahani said to succeed in all walks of life. It is believed that of the planet Moon. (Father) goddess Bhuvaneshwari brings happiness and remove „ Protects from disease, enemies, and problems sorrow in life and forgive all the Sins. Her sadhana is „ Leads a joyous family life and gains fame Shiv Sahani (Son) also done for Putra Prapti. „ Bestow totality in married life and make it happy, Priya Sahani Sood prosperous, and comfortable. Ceremonies to worship (Daughter) Shri Bhuvaneshwari Bhuvaneshwari associated with space 7 1 8 - 2 7 1 - 1 9 0 6 Bhuvaneshwari is the goddess of infinite space. The Kalratri, Eclipse, Holi, Deepawali, MahaShivaratri, Divine Mother Bhuvaneshwari creates the space so that [email protected] Krishna Paksha, and Ashtami are auspicious days for all the things in the manifested world could come up worshipping Goddess Bhuvaneshwari. Red flowers, eventually. Space is the matrix in which all beings are rice, sandalwood, Rudraksha beads, etc. are offered to created, sustained, and dissolved. Space has many “If Hindus don’t maintain Hinduism, who shall save it?” the goddess while worshiping the Mahavidayas. levels of manifestation; the space of the universe and “If India’s own children don't cling to their faith, who shall the space of the mind. All these different kinds of space guard it?” Bhuvaneshwari Devi Puja Benefits signify only various aspects and functions of Bhubaneswari is the Goddess who rules the whole Bhuvaneshwari. “Indians alone can save India, and India and Hinduism are world. She is worshipped even by the gods and Yogis. Source: Vedicfeed.com one.” THE INDIAN PANORAMA ADVT. FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 32 THE INDIAN PANORAMA TRAVEL FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 33 Jalore wildlife sanctuary

alore Wildlife Sanctuary is the only experience. Since a maximum of only privately-owned sanctuary in India eight people are allowed to stay at the Jand is located 130 km from Jodhpur sanctuary at a time, you and your group near Jalore town. The sanctuary is a will be able to enjoy a completely private remote natural jungle spread over an trip. area of 190 sq km and is home to several On making bookings with the endangered wild animals. In the sanctuary, you will be picked up at a sanctuary you can spot Indian gazelle, suitable time from Jodhpur, the nearest desert fox, leopard, Asian-steppe wildcat, large city. tawny eagle and long-billed vulture. Herds of blue bulls, antelopes and BEST PLACES TO EAT gazelles roam freely right outside the The food served in the sanctuary is camps that are set up for tourists in the made in an open natural fireplace. The heart of the jungle. food is authentic and prepared Once in Jalore Wildlife Sanctuary, you traditionally according to the village can explore the forest either on foot or on standards. Continental food will also be jeep safaris. Forest authorities operate prepared for you on request. two safaris daily which last for three hours each. Guards escort tourists and a BEST TIME TO VISIT naturalist who shares information about The average minimum and maximum the forest and helps them spot the temperature of Jalore Wildlife animals. Bird watchers can spot up to 200 Sanctuary is as given below. The best different species of birds here. time to visit Jalore Wildlife Sanctuary is There are many opportunities for also specified. adventure enthusiasts to explore the trails as a part of day long hikes that are offered with lunch at the top of the granite mountain ecosystem inside the sanctuary. If you are lucky, you can see sloth bears and leopards on the trail. You may have to make prior bookings since only eight tourists are allowed to stay in the sanctuary at a time. BEST PLACES TO STAY There are quite a few hotels near the sanctuary which offer decent services to travelers. However, living inside the sanctuary will truly give you a rich, close-to-nature experience. The guest house inside the sanctuary provides most facilities you may need. Luxury bungalows styled in native rural style with typical village like furniture, give tourists a comfortable and relaxing THE INDIAN PANORAMA SPORTS FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 34 England bowled out for 205 in decent conditions

AHMEDABAD (TIP): England’s batsmen lost the battle in both mind and skills with yet another shoddy performance to surrender the momentum to India on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test. Axar Patel and Pollard hits six Ravichandran Ashwin called the shots on the opening day of the match, which sixers in over, India must draw or win to qualify for the World Test Championship final. second after England won the toss again and managed to cross the 200-run mark, for the first time since the first innings of Yuvraj in T20Is the first Test in Chennai. However, a total COOLIDGE (TIP): West Indies of 205 all out is certainly not what captain Kieron Pollard on March 4 captain Joe Root expected after electing became the second batsman after to bat in good batting conditions. India’s Yuvraj Singh to hit six sixers in There was some turn and bounce but an over in a T20 International. Pollard’s the pitch was not a minefield that the rampage came against Akila England batsmen — except Ben Stokes, Dananjaya in the first T20I between who made 55 off 121 balls — made it out West Indies and Sri Lanka, after to be. Dananjaya had taken a hat-trick in his For India, Axar Patel (4/68), Ashwin previous over. (3/47) and Washington Sundar (1/14) Pollard is only the third player toyed with the visiting batsmen, whose overall to hit six sixes in an over in confidence has been shattered by regular international cricket. South Africa’s failures on turning wickets. attacking game, and Pope was intent on Zak Crawley tried to take the attack to Herschelle Gibbs was the first ever Mohammed Siraj played his part, using his footwork to deal with the turn. Patel, but attempted a lofted shot without batsman to hit six sixes in removing Root and Jonny Bairstow with There was always going to be a delivery getting to the pitch of the delivery and international cricket when he went balls that came in, to finish with 2/45. with their name written over it. was caught by Siraj at mid-off. after the Netherlands’ Daan Van Bunge India were 24/1 at stumps, with the Lawrence fell when he was beaten by Root (5) got a great inswinger from in a group stage match of the 2007 wily old James Anderson having the away-turn when he danced down the Siraj, leaving the team at 30/3 inside the World Cup. Dananjaya, who was sent to dismissed Shubman Gill for 0. Rohit track and got stumped. first hour. all corners of the ground by Pollard in Sharma (8) and Cheteshwar Pujara (15) Pope was dismissed when Ashwin the sixth over, had become the third Sri were the unbeaten batsmen. changed the line of his delivery,dropping Stokes upset Lankan to take a hat-trick in T20I it a bit short, and Pope’s attempted flick Ben Stokes, who made 55 off 121 cricket in his previous over. Another failure was snared by Gill at forward short leg. balls, was England’s best batsman of Pollard’s feat is the fifth instance of a England’s line-up was bolstered with the day, and he was very disappointed batsman hitting six sixes and in an over an extra batsmen, and four of them got Decent stand at frittering away a good start, having in T20 cricket. He is also the first starts — Stokes, Bairstow (28), Dan Stokes and Bairstow, during their 48- done the hard work by defending well batsman from West Indies to do so in Lawrence (46) and Ollie Pope (29) — but run stand, showed that with robust for a long time. Stokes was trapped lbw the shortest format of the game. While failed to go on to a big score. defence, survival and run-scoring were by Washington Sundar with one that Yuvraj was the first to do it during the It seemed that most batsmen had made not impossible on this wicket. Both went straight even as he played for the 2007 T20 World Cup, English cricketer up their minds that they were playing on played the spinners close to their body on off-break. “I am more disappointed that Ross Whiteley hit six sixes 10 years a big turner, and were either most occasions, especially on the front I actually got myself in and got out. later while playing for Worcestershire unnecessarily aggressive or tentative. foot. Fifty is not really a (score) that will during the 2017 NatWest T20 Blast. Stokes was a cut above the rest in both Yet, on this track no batsman would win you a Test match,” Stokes said. defence and offence before an error cost feel completely set, and that was true of “After spending two-and-a-half hours, him his wicket. Washington Sundar got Bairstow and Stokes. playing so well, trying to avoid getting Sania ousted him with one that angled in from around Patel had struck early, after being out to a straight ball and I ended up the stumps, and Stokes played for an off- brought on in the sixth over. He bowled getting out to (it), that is frustrating,” break — the ball didn’t turn and he was an arm ball which had Dom Sibley (2) said the 29-year-old. Stokes said these from Qatar trapped lbw. leaving a huge gap between bat and pad, are the “hardest conditions” he had Lawrence was ready to play the to be bowled. batted in. Total Open ania Mirza's first tournament in more than a year ended Liverpool slump to historic fifth straight loss at S with a semifinal defeat as she was ousted from the Qatar Total Open along with her partner Andreja Klepac, here on Thursday. Anfield at the hands of Chelsea Sania and her Slovenian partner ive straight home losses for the first and has gone 10 matches unbeaten since lost 5-7 6-2 5-10 to America's Nicole time in the club’s 128-year history. the German arrived as Frank Lampard’s Melichar and Dutch player Demi FMore than 10 hours since a goal replacement. Schuurs in one hour and 28 from open play at Anfield. Qualifying for the Champions League minutes. The stadium that was once a fortress looks to be increasingly unlikely for Playing against players, who are for Liverpool is the now the scene of a Liverpool, which is four points adrift of ranked 11 and 12 in the world was scarcely believable implosion by the Chelsea and even behind Merseyside tough but it was a decent outing for soon-to-be-deposed English champions. rival Everton. Sania, who recovered from COVID- Liverpool’s 1-0 loss to Chelsea on “It’s a massive blow,” Klopp said. “If 19 recently, and her partner. Thursday continued a staggering run of you lose that many games, you don’t have It was first tournament for the home form over the past six weeks, after the right to go to the Champions League.” Indian since last February. Jurgen Klopp’s team had previously gone Eight months after winning the Sania and Klepac split USD 10000 68 games in a row unbeaten at Anfield. either. Mason Mount scored the winner Premier League by 18 points, Liverpool is and earned 185 ranking points each. Formerly the owner of one of Europe’s in the 42nd minute, cutting in from the 22 points behind first-place Manchester Since Sania was not defending most devastating attacks, Liverpool only left and curling home from the edge of City. much points, it will help her managed one effort on goal against the area for a goal that sent Chelsea into “To get back to where you get these improve her ranking. Chelsea – a weak header in the 85th the top four and dropped Liverpool to moments, you have to work, be stubborn Sania will break back into top-200 minute. Mohamed Salah was substituted seventh place. It was a first win at and fight hard,” Klopp said. “We will get and is expected to climb to the 177th after barely an hour; Sadio Mane and Anfield since 2014 for Chelsea, which is a there again because it is still in the spot from the current 254. Roberto Firmino barely threatened team transformed under Thomas Tuchel boys.” THE INDIAN PANORAMA ADVT. FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 35 THE INDIAN PANORAMA ADVT. FRIDAY MARCH 5, 2021 YEARS 36