The South Asian Times Asian South The Vol. 7 | No. 22 | Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 | 60 Cents 60 | 2014 3, 27-Oct Sept | 22 No. | 7 Vol. President Obama and graces a rousing reception in NYC byhe addressestheUnited NationsGeneralAssembly,goesinto a summitwith the Indian community. A born statesman, NaMo’s current visit to US catapults him into world arena as which wereneglected foroverhalfacenturybysuccessivegovernments. Damodardas Modihasstartedtacklingmany challengingissuesandareas, In lessthan4months,thedynamicPrime Minster ofIndia,ShriNarendra at World Stage of Power & Politics & Power of Stage World at NaMo m s i l a n r u o j n i e c n e l l e c x e : Creating Legacy Legacy Creating :

NaMo Special Commemorating his US visit

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The 400-500 strong crowd of Indian Americans cheered Modi lustily outside his hotel in Manhattan. (Photo: Xitij Joshi) And Prime Minister waves to people gathered to greet him on his arrival in New York.

New York: Indian Prime Minister which with held visa for him for "natural global partner", Modi world and growth and spread of places. Narendra Modi arrived in New over a decade, is now rolling out held out an assurance that India is terrorism. Among the audience at MSG York Friday to a tumultuous wel- the red carpet for him, with "open and friendly" for business Modi was to meet New York will be lawmakers, business hon- come by the Indian American President Obama inviting him for and innovations. Mayor Bill de Blasio later Friday. chos, and Indian American com- community as diaspora members a bilateral meeting and dinner at As he seeks to hardsell India as a He has a tight schedule ahead of munity leaders. chanted "Modi, Modi" and held the White House. sound investment destination and him with nearly 25 events planned An important part of Modi's visit placards to greet him and express Modi, 64, flew into New York's mend ties with the US after a bit- in New York and in Washington is to sell the idea of "Make in their enthusiasm. JFK airport on a special Air India ter diplomatic row last year, Modi for him. India" and to solicit investment Modi, who arrived on a five-day Boeing plane on the first leg of his asserted that the two countries The highlight of Modi's visit is a and technology. He will meet visit to the US, was attired nattily maiden visit to the US as Prime have a fundamental stake and community reception organized by more than 15 top executives of in a dark maroon bandh-gala suit. Minister after a nearly nine-hour many shared interests in each the Indian American community at major US companies Monday A group of 400-500 Indian flight from Frankfurt where he had other's success. the Madison Square Garden in before leaving for Washington. Americans from the Queens area an overnight halt. He was received Giving an insight into his UN New York Sunday. About 18,500 In a sign of growing influence of had gathered near the New York on arrival by Ambassadors S. address, Modi had said he will call people have been issued tickets to the Indian diaspora in the US, one Palace hotel where he was to stay, Jaishankar and Asoke Mukerji and for a stronger global commitment attend the event and several thou- of the politicians he will meet is chanting his name lustily, as Modi New York Consul General and more concerted multilateral sand more are expected to watch South Carolina's Republican waved to them smiling. Dnyaneshwar Mulay, other Indian action in addressing challenges of the reception on TV relays at Governor Nikki Haley, who is of Modi's electoral victory marked officials and US protocol officers. fragile global economy, turbulence Times Square and in over 40 other Indian-origin. Among the top a turnaround and Washington, Describing America as India's and tension in many parts of the venues at universities and other Continued on page 6

OP-ED BY MODI 12 VOX POPULI 40 INDIAN PMS IN USA 44 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS 60 excellence in journalism

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US a vital partner in India's national development: Modi

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra speeches, including the latest interview to visit will mark the start of a new chapter in Modi, who was denied a visa for the US for CNN, has referred to the strength of democ- our strategic partnership". Modi said during over a decade, said Thursday he looks for- racy - pointing to his own rise from a tea his Sep 27 address to the UNGA, he will ward to meeting President Barack Obama seller to the highest seat of government. "stress the urgency of early reforms in the Modi boarding a flight Thursday and is confident that his five-day sojourn to "Shared values, convergent interests and United Nations, to ensure that it remains rel- for New York. the US will mark the "start of a new chapter complementary strengths provide the foun- evant and effective in dealing with the chal- in our strategic partnership". dation for natural partnership between the lenges of the 21st century". India is part of more actively in India's economic growth In a statement prior to his departure for the world's oldest and largest democracies," he the G4 grouping along with Japan, Brazil and transformation. This is message that I US, where he would address the UN General said in the statement. and Germany that have called for reform in will also convey to the US business commu- Assembly (UNGA) in New York and later "I see the US as a vital partner for our the Security Council and support each other's nity in Washington", he said, referring to his travel to Washington for the summit with national development, drawing especially on bid for a permanent seat in an expanded breakfast meeting with more than 15 CEOs Obama, Modi said he views the US as a the rich possibilities of partnership in educa- Council. "The 69th session of the UN of top US companies, including Google, "vital partner for our national development". tion, skills, research, technology and innova- General Assembly is meeting at a moment of Boeing, Goldman Sachs among others. He said his meeting with Obama will be a tion - and, above all, a shared commitment to many pressing challenges for the internation- Modi said he is also keenly waiting for the first for them. "His life's journey is a remark- human values." "Working together, and with al community - a still fragile global econo- opportunity to meet the Indian American able testimony to the rights and opportunities others, we can bridge the many divisions of my, turbulence and tension in many parts of community at the Madison Square Garden in that democracies provide, and an inspiration our times and contribute to building a more the world, growth and spread of terrorism, New York. He is to address thousands of the for people around the world," he said. Trade peaceful, stable, secure, sustainable and the Ebola health crisis in Africa, climate Indian diaspora at the event. "Their success and investment, energy, science and technol- prosperous world." He said he will discuss change and the endemic global challenge of in diverse fields, their contribution to the US, ogy, defence and security are expected to be with Obama "how we can use the strength of poverty. "I will call for a stronger global their abiding bonds with India and their role the areas of focus during the summit talks. all that we share and all that we have built so commitment and more concerted multilateral as a vibrant bridge between the two largest Both sides would seek to give much-needed far to take our relationship to a new level in action in meeting these challenges," he said. democracies is a source of pride for us. They impetus to the flagging bilateral relationship the interest of our two countries and the He said he looks forward "to meeting busi- serve as a window to our heritage, progress during the Sep 29-30 meeting. Modi in his cause of this world. I am confident that the ness leaders to invite them to participate and potential." UNGA address, dinner with Obama: Modi has 35 engagements in US

New York: Prime Minister New York City Mayor Bill de much-needed impetus to the flag- Narendra Modi has a packed sched- Blasio, and former US president ging bilateral relationship during ule of 35 engagements, including Bill Clinton and his wife and for- the meeting. an address to the UN General mer secretary of state Hillary Modi has held successful diplo- Assembly and a much-anticipated Clinton. matic meetings with the leaders of summit meeting with President Modi would be meeting the China, Japan, and Australia besides Barack Obama, during his Sep 26- CEOs of Fortune 500 US compa- a whole lot of diplomatic interac- 30 visit to the US. nies, including Boeing, Pepsico, tions with other countries so far. A rare picture of Narendra Modi (front, left) in Los Angeles in Modi, who would be observing Google, General Electric and The US visit is being looked for- 1993. In the 1990s, he frequently visited America as RSS the nine-day Navratri fast during Goldman Sachs among others and ward to as the US had slapped a ban representative before he got busy at home when he his trip, would also be holding three also hold one-on-one meetings with on Modi's entry in the aftermath of became chief minister of Gujarat in 2001. bilateral meetings with neighbors - some of them. the 2002 Gujarat riots. Early this Sri Lankan President Mahinda His visit to Washington, Sep 29- year, the US sought a rapproche- Akbaruddin said that the prime of the large Indian community at Rajapaksa, Nepal Prime Minister 30, would also see a dinner date ment with him when it became minister "looks forward and not Madison Square Garden. Sushil Koirala and Bangladesh with President Obama on Sept 29. clear that Modi was set to become backward" in a relationship. His interactions in the US would Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. But Trade and investment, energy, the leader of the country of 1.2 bil- Modi is also to pay homage at the be with the US political leaders, not his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz science and technology, defence lion people. 9/11 memorial in New York and and administration, with the busi- Sharif. and security are expected to be the To a question about the US' earli- meet 300 members of the Indian ness community, civil society, and He would also be meeting the UN areas of focus during their talks. er boycott of Modi, external affairs American business community. He the vibrant Indian diaspora, said Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, Both sides would seek to give ministry spokesperson Syed would also address a few thousand Akbaruddin. 6

Why MSG reception? Dr Barai explains By Parveen Chopra booked on Sept 28, so the organiz- Gujaratis were running the MSG ers had to remain content with show, he said they are a large and New York: “The grand public 20,000 capacity MSG. dominant community in the tris- reception for Prime Minister Speaking to a group of commu- tate area, so it is natural for them Narendra Modi at Madison Square nity leaders from Long Island Sept to be prominent in organizing the Garden is to show to the US gov- 21, Dr Barai, a confidante of event in the area. ernment how much public support Modi, explained how the entire At the same time, he insisted he enjoys,” said Dr Bharat Barai, process of holding the reception, that 400 organizations of all hues chief coordinator of the Indian and allotting free tickets has been from all parts of US and Canada American Community fair, transparent and equitable, were partnered to spread the word Foundation, the nonprofit floated controversies notwithstanding . and distribute free tickets to their to organize the community recep- This was done in keeping with the members. tion for Modi, denied a US visa vision of prime minister Modi, Dr Barai, an oncologist/hematol- for over a dacade. who is also transforming the way ogist, has known Modi for 30 Even as Gujarat chief minister, government does business in New years and the future prime minis- Modi’s popularity had been surg- Delhi. He also explained how ter used to stay with the Barai ing in America, especially New money for the $1.5 million event family when visiting the US. Mrs Jersey, home to a large Gujarati Dr Bharat Barai, heading the organization that is holding the was raised from the community. Panna Barai is an ob/gyne and reception, briefing the media on Sept 26 at Marriott Marquis population, but he was only able Dr Barai is a Gujarati who they live in Munster, Indiana, on hotel in Manhattan. (Photo: Xitij Joshi). to address his supporters through arrived after a degree in medicine the border of Chicago. They have video conferencing. Even then his sands. Now after his ascension as ily filled the Giants Stadium, from Baroda in 1974 . When asked three daughters and one son, all audience used to run into thou- prime minister, he could have eas- which unfortunately was already the much aired grouse that professionals.

PM arrives in NYC to chants of 'Modi! Modi!'. US steps in to nip in bud Modi legal Continued from page 1 multinational executives he is to meet will be PepsiCo's Indra wrangle, says he enjoys immunity Nooyi and Microsoft’s Satya Nadella. In Washington, he will Washington: Prime Minister Radical Sikh activists who have But the Obama administration the duration of the visit not only have a lunch with Vice President Narendra Modi will have total been carrying out a legal cam- stepped in to assure the visiting from court proceedings, but also Joe Biden and Secretary of State immunity from legal proceedings paign in US to shame the Indian leader that he's safe from any legal from being personally served or John Kerry. Many business lead- in the US that have been initiated government for perceived human wrangle even as he landed in New handed court summons. "While ers have been invited to the by human rights activists, the rights excesses attempted to York. we cannot comment specifically event. Despite all the dinners, Obama administration said on embarrass Modi ahead of his Senior Obama administration on this lawsuit, I can tell you that breakfasts and lunches set up for Friday even as the Indian leader arrival in New York by initiating officials previewing the visit said as a general legal principle, sitting him, Modi will be observing his arrived in New York to a purport- legal action, resulting in a court in a teleconference that as a visit- heads of government enjoy immu- nine-day Navaratri fast on tea ed US court order pertaining to the order seeking his response to the ing head of government, Modi nity from suits in American and lemon water. 2002 Gujarat riots. 2002 communal riots in Gujarat. enjoyed complete immunity for courts," one official said.

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Indian diaspora hosting 'monumental' reception for Modi

New York: People are coming by chartered will be webcast. flights, buses and trains, besides driving MSG Program Officials have worked with the organizers down to New York from all over North Sept 28 to facilitate transportation and to arrange for America, as the Indian diaspora comes 09:00 AM movement of people, Shah said. New Jersey together on an unprecedented scale to honor Doors open Transit will run special trains and Path sub- Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a commu- 11:00 AM way system will run on weekday schedule nity reception at the famed Madison Square Formal program including entertain- to provide more frequent services. Garden here Sunday. ment segment begins Sidelights About 18,500 people will be at the venue 12:10 PM Dr Kiran Patel, who is in charge of the and several thousand more are expected to Prime Minister's Speech entertainment segment at the MSG event, watch the reception from a large monitor set has come up with a theme where a holo- up in Times Square and in video relays at The famed venue of the community basketball team. Two National Democratic gram of Swami Vivekananda will emerge. more than 40 universities across the US, reception for PM Narendra Modi that Party Conventions, which nominate presi- When Narendra Modi walks on stage, his according to Anand Shah, the spokesperson can hold 20,000 people. dential candidates have been held there. icon Swami Vivekananda will be present, for Indian American Community Modi's reception will feature two well- almost. Foundation (IACF) that is organizing it. unprecedented show of unity in the commu- known Indian Americans, Miss America Rajbhog sweets and Deep foods, two of “An event like this is something that is nity. Although Shah would not say how 2014 Nina Davaluri and PBS Newshour the top companies in America specializing monumental for our community,” he said of much has been raised so far to pay for the Weekend anchor Hari Srinivasan, as the in packaged Indian food, will distribute the enthusiastic response. More than 30,000 event, he said the foundation received sev- emcees. 20,000 food packets outside the MSG people registered for tickets and the 18,500 eral thousand modest contributions online. TV Asia will be telecasting the reception. ground after the event. were chosen by a lottery and 2,000 were Shah said that several American politi- It can also be viewed on IACF’s website, The Rajbhog packet will consist of a hot placed on a waiting list. cians are expected at the reception. pmvisit.org. Modi will be speaking in Hindi mixture, given the apt name 'Modi Mix', More than 400 organizations have signed MSG is the home of the New York and simultaneously subtitles in English will along with barfi. The Deep food packet will on Welcome Partners for the event, itself an Rangers ice hockey team and the Knicks be on the screen and an audio translation have bhel. Where Modi will stay in NYC and DC Nikki Haley and Tulsi Gabbard among VIPs to which is bang opposite the White The library of the House. It is the state guest house attend Modi's reception Blair House, where high officials of other coun- New York: During his hectic ing the public reception include which stands next tries are hosted. Almost two cen- schedule in New York, Prime US senators -- Robert Menendez, to the White turies old, Blair House has hosted Minister Narendra Modi is chairman of the Senate foreign House, and where many heads of state and has been an Prime Minister expected to meet Indian relations committee, Cory integral part of American history. Modi will stay American South Carolina Booker from New Jersey, Joe India’s first Prime Minister, post- during his visit to Governor Nikki Haley, Democrat Donely from Indiana, Charles independence, Jawaharlal Nehru Washington. Congresswoman from Hawaii Schumer from New York -- and stayed here in 1956 with Indira Tulsi Gabbard. They are among Reps Ed Royce, Jim McDermott, Gandhi. Dr. Manmohan Singh too several VIPs confirmed to attend Nita Lowey, Joe Crowley, Aaron New York: Prime Minister thing about that particular person, was put up at Blair House during the September 28 address by Schock, lone Indian American Narendra Modi on his maiden visit or about his or her country. While his first America visit. Modi at Madison Square Garden Congressman Ami Bera, Grace to the United States will stay at two the Waldorf Astoria for decades has The House, spread over 70,000 on Sept 28 where close to 20,000 Meng, and Carolyn Maloney. iconic properties in New York and been the choice for political leaders feet with 120 rooms, was built as a Indian Americans will throng to “Mr Modi will meet all the Washington, DC. and royal family members, in recent private home for Joseph Lovell, hear him speak. politicians at the VVIP lounge in Modi will stay at the historic New years, historic hotels like the St. eighth Surgeon General of the US Gabbard, the first practicing MSG before his speech,” said York Palace hotel in Midtown Regis and New York Palace with its Army, which was then acquired by Hindu American in the Congress Jagdish Sewhani, President of Manhattan from September 26 to upgraded suites are competing hard Francis Preston Blair, a newspaper who took her oath on the Gita, American India Public Affairs 29 before moving to Washington for lucrative business during the publisher and advisor to President was in fact involved in planning Committee who is part of the DC. He is accompanied by 80-90 UN General Assembly session Andrew Jackson. It was bought by Modi’s US visit and had last organizing committee of Indian member entourage. External affairs around this time. the US government in 1942 and month met two BJP leaders - American Community minister Sushma Swaraj and envi- On Sept 29-30 in Washington, converted into the official residence Vijay Jolly and MP Rajyavardhan Foundation that is holding the ronment minister Prakash Modi will stay in Blair House, for guests of the US president. Rathore for the same. An Iraq reception. The top Indian Javadekar have already been in war veteran, Gabbard had con- Americans to attend the commu- New York to attend UN general Fasting not feasting gratulated Modi after his party’s nity reception include Satya assembly and climate summit poll victory and has maintained Nadella, Indira Nooyl, Shantanu respectively. The Palace is expect- rime Minister Modi will begin his annual ritual of ‘nakkoda’ fasting - that it was a ‘great blunder’ by Narayen, Ajay Banga, Vivek ing around 20 heads of state this that he has been observing every Navratri for the past four decades - a the US government to have Randive, Pradeep K Khosla, month. It is also a standard practice Pday before he leaves for the US. Ironically, there may be elaborate denied a visa to Modi following Nitin Nohria and Subra Suresh. to fly the home flags of visiting menus for his private dinner at the White House, lunch with Joe Biden and the 2002 Gujarat riots. She also Many top executives from heads of state, a de facto way of power breakfast with CEOs and a reception by the Indian ambassador to the protested the arrest of Indian Goldman Sachs, techies from acknowledging that a particular US, but the visiting PM will be fasting. As in most of his previous foreign diplomat Devyani Khobragade. Silicon Valley and bankers from dignitary can be found there. trips, he will be traveling with his own cook. "Considering this is a very Among other prominent US Wall Street too are expected to It is said that where a leader important meeting, he might have a token soup, salad, fruit or juice there but politicians who will be attend- attend. chooses to stay often reveals some- will avoid grains," said one of Modi's associates.

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Modi-Obama meet: Cautious optimism for Indo-US ties By Jinal shah ing Xi Jinping’s visit to New Delhi. security and Medicare taxes. Modi’s visit is also said to reset Currently, residents of the US pay New York: The stage is set; red the relations between the two coun- 6.2% social security taxes on wages carpets rolled. US is all set to wel- tries, which were stalled earlier this up to $106,800 and 1.45% come Narendra Modi, India’s little year due to diplomatic tensions. Medicare taxes. Since a lot of these over 100 days old Prime Minister. India-US relations were at its low- professionals return to India before Exclusive dinner with Obama, est ebb in decades following the they retire, they will never see the grand community reception -- arrest and strip search of a Indian payouts of these contributions. America is going all out to woo diplomat, Devyani Khobragade, in India has been pushing for this India’s new leader especially after New York in December last and the agreement for over a decade, how- Washington’s not so comfortable resignation of the US ambassador ever the US is yet to sign any pact. relationship with Modi in the past to India, Nancy Powell. Other issues concerning India (US denied diplomatic visa and Significantly, Obama administra- include the United States Border from prominent think tanks. While be looked at is economic ties, revoked B1 and B2 visa to Modi tion recently nominated Indian Security, Economic Opportunity most veered towards cautious opti- defense, trade and technology citing the 2002 riots in Gujarat, the American Richard Rahul Verma as and Immigration Modernization mism on other fronts, they agreed exchanges," said Tanvi Madan, state that he ruled for 13 years US envoy to India. Bill, 2013, which proposes more that big ticket items such as eco- director of the India Project at the before taking over as PM in May). There are many hurdles though. visa related restrictions including nomic and defense partnership will Brookings Institution, a However, Modi-led BJP’s land- In a recent press conference mark- increased fees. The stagnant trade yield results. “Primarily what will Washington DC-based think tank. slide election victory in May sent ing 100 days of Modi government, negotiations, disputes over intellec- the Obama administration scurrying India’s commerce minister Nirmala tual property and the Obama Modi’s Itinerary to rebuild ties with the new leader Sitharaman listed issues that the administration’s preoccupation with of the world’s largest democracy. In Indian government hopes to discuss Afghanistan and now Syria are Sep 26: Arrives in New York, meets Mayor Bill de Blasio the past few months, several high during Modi’s visit to Washington. some of the other issues. Sep 27: Visits Ground Zero and 9/11 memorial; Addresses ranking US officials visited India as Issues include: American visa regu- Modi and Obama will also dis- UNGA; part of an all-out charm offensive to lations impacting the Indian IT cuss India's nuclear liability law Bilateral meetings; Addresses annual Global Citizen Festival at pave the way for Modi’s planned industry, temporary movement of and ways to address concerns of US Central Park; visit this week. The quick U-turn skilled labor from India to the US, nuclear major Westinghouse. Meets group of eminent Indian-Americans. post-election is self-explanatory as problems faced by the Indian phar- Despite the upbeat political rheto- Sep 28: Meets South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley; Addresses to how critical it is to strengthen ma industry in getting greater mar- ric surrounding Modi’s maiden community reception at MSG; Dinner reception at The Pierre, India-US relationship, especially to ket access in US and the visit, there is cautious optimism hosted by Ambassador S. Jaishankar. counter-balance the Chinese rising Totalization agreement. among analysts on the prospects of Sep 29: Meets business CEOs; Meets Bill and Hillary Clinton; power. Modi’s five day trip to Japan improving relations between the US Addresses Council on Foreign Relations; Leaves for Washington. and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping’s Totalization Agreement and India. There are varying expec- Sep 29: Checks into Blair House, presidential state guest house; trip to New Delhi, ahead of his US India wants an early conclusion tations from think tanks closely Private dinner with President Obama. trip, analysts say, could create a of the Totalization Agreement with monitoring the developments Sep 30: Visits Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr memorial and shadow over Indo-US ties. Hence, the US, under which an expatriate between the two countries. While Gandhi statue in front of the Indian embassy in Washington; warmer relations between in either country will not contribute some analysts believe that Modi’s Formal summit meeting with Obama at the White House; Lunch Washington and New Delhi would to social security schemes of the visit could be an opportunity to with Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of State John Kerry help both nations counter China’s host country. The Totalization advance on key Indo –US issues, at the State Department; Meeting on Capitol Hill with growing assertiveness in the region, Agreement, if goes through, will others are skeptical on the outcome Congressional leaders hosted by Republican House Speaker a goal they share even as India exempt Indian professionals work- of the meetings. The Voice of John Boehner; Reception and policy address to the US-India l courted investment from China dur- ing in the US from paying socia America (VOA) put out comments Business Council (USIBC); Leaves for India. US to press Modi on trade row with India

Washington: The United States said on which is that while we are very sympathetic India when Modi visits. "Some of our coop- Wednesday it will press India's Prime to the food-security concerns the prime min- erative measures in that regard have sort of Minister to end his blockage of a global trade ister has voiced, we do believe that the trade stalled," he said at the Naval War College in pact when he visits Washington end of this facilitation agreement is a very, very impor- Newport, Rhode Island. Greenert said the month, something that could dampen the tant agreement," she said. In late July, India United States was keen to ramp up joint exer- mood of a trip aimed at revitalizing strategic torpedoed the deal after demanding conces- cises to again include carrier and submarine ties. US assistant secretary of state Nisha sions on agricultural stockpiling. Biswal said operations. "We haven't done that in a little Biswal said India "does itself a discredit" by the stance "undermines India's interests as while," he said. "I'd like to get back on that blocking the trade facilitation agreement well as the interests of ... many developing track." In spite of enthusiastic US rhetoric (TFA) reached in Bali last year, rekindling a countries and emerging economies. about Modi's visit, it remains unclear what it dispute that overshadowed an August 1 meet- The top US naval officer, Admiral Jonathan will achieve. ing between US secretary of state John Kerry Greenert, meanwhile, expressed hopes of Biswal has played down expectations of and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Indian origin US assistant secretary of expanding a security relationship with India quick progress on bilateral issues, not least Delhi. In a conference call previewing Modi's state Nisha Biswal said India, con- that has failed so far to live up to Obama's when it comes to opening up India's civilian September 29-30 visit to Washington for a cerned over food security, should not billing as "one of the defining partnerships of nuclear sector to US firms, which is hindered first meeting with President Barack Obama, block the trade facilitation agreement. the 21st Century." Greenert told reporters at a by their concerns about India's liability laws. Biswal said the World Trade Organization would "certainly" be a topic for conversa- military conference he was hoping for "clari- She said there were still "tough issues to be agreement to ease worldwide customs rules tion."We've made our position very clear, ty" on US military sales and cooperation with worked through" on the nuclear issue.

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Op-ED Unleashing India's Energy and Drive By Narendra Modi India into a new global manufacturing hub. India will pursue Prime Minister of India We will do what it takes to make it a reality. its dreams in part- We ran our election campaign on the nership with our here is a high promise of inclusive development. To me, international friends. tide of hope for that means many things: skills education, History tells us that Tchange in and opportunity; safety, dignity and rights India's natural India. This May, for those in every section of our society, instinct is to be open across India's especially women; a bank account for every to the world. India immense diversity, Indian; affordable health care within every- will be open and 1.25 billion people one's reach; sanitation for all by 2019; a friendly—for busi- spoke unequivocally roof over every head by 2022; electricity for ness, ideas, research, for political stability, every household; and connectivity to every innovations and good governance and village. In addressing these daunting chal- travel. In the coming rapid development. lenges, I draw confidence from countless months, you will India has a government with a majority in extraordinary stories of ordinary Indians feel the difference the Lok Sabha, for the first time in 30 years. that I have seen through decades of travel even before you A young nation with 800 million people across India. begin your travel to under age 35, India is brimming with opti- I also strongly believe in the possibilities India. the US can be used for inclusive and broad- mism and confidence. The young people's of technology and innovation to transform The United States is our natural global based global development to transform lives energy, enthusiasm and enterprise are governance, empower people, provide partner. India and the US embody the endur- across the world. Because our countries' India's greatest strength. Unleashing those affordable solutions for societal challenges ing and universal relevance of their shared values and interests are aligned, though our attributes is my government's biggest and reach people in ways that were unimag- values. The thriving Indian-American com- circumstances are different, we are in a mission. inable not so long ago. The number of cell munity in the US is a metaphor for the unique position to become a bridge to a We will pursue this mission by eliminat- phones in India has gone up from about 40 potential of our partnership, and for the pos- more integrated and cooperative world. ing unnecessary laws and regulations, mak- million to more than 900 million in a sibilities of an environment that nurtures With sensitivity to each other's point of ing bureaucratic processes easier and short- decade; our country is already the second- enterprise and rewards hard work. Our view and the confidence of our friendship, er, and ensuring that our government is largest market for smart phones, with sales strengths in IT are especially important for we can contribute to more concerted inter- more transparent, responsive and account- growing ever faster. When I think of the leadership in the digital age. The partner- national efforts to meet the pressing global able. It has been said that doing the thing growth in computing power and storage ship between our businesses takes place in challenges of our times. right is as important as doing the right thing. capacity and its miniaturization that the the comfort and certainty of similar political This is a moment of flux in the global We will create world-class infrastructure world has witnessed over the past two systems and shared commitment to rule of order. I am confident in the destiny of our that India badly needs to accelerate growth decades, I am confident that this can be law. In education, innovation, and science two nations, because democracy is the and meet people's basic needs. We will replicated in renewable energy. With solar and technology, the US continues to inspire greatest source of renewal and, with the make our cities and towns habitable, sus- and wind power, thousands of Indian vil- India. right conditions, offers the best opportunity tainable and smart; and we will make our lages will be able to get access quickly to India and the US have a fundamental for the human spirit to flourish. villages the new engines of economic trans- reliable, affordable and clean energy, with- stake in each other's success—for the sake formation. "Make in India" is our commit- out waiting for large, faraway conventional of our values and our many shared interests. This op-ed originally appeared in Wall ment—and an invitation to all—to turn power plants to be built. The complementary strengths of India and Street Journal. International media getting to know and like Modi

By SAT Team other political leader is even close," Willis commented. commented. "All those CEOs breakfasting with Modi s Indian Prime Minister Narendra For Forbes, the Modi visit is a packed in New York will be listening closely to his Modi landed on US soil on Sept schedule. pitch about the new Indian business envi- A26, the international media gave a "Modi has focused his international ronment, and if things sound right, and the thumbs up to the man who has not only diplomacy on seeking big-dollar deals to business model works, they’ll respond," it lifted the spirits of one billion-plus Indians help build India’s much needed infrastruc- further read. back home with his grit and action-orient- ture — a $1 trillion over ten years need— According to The Guardian in Britain, ed working style but also kindled hopes in as well as a new initiative to jump-start the visit is aimed at rebooting the relation- the 25 million-strong diaspora around the India’s manufacturing sector to create jobs. ship with the US. world. His visit to Japan resulted in a $35 billion "Both India and the US are seeking to For the New York Times, "the visit is a front page story read. over five years development assistance counter-balance the rise of China in the big moment for Mr. Modi, who offers him- In a separate article, NYT commentator headline. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Asia-Pacific region," it said. self as a metaphor for the India he wants to Derek Willis wrote: "Modi will address a visit to India produced a $20 billion invest- "The biggest impact of the trip will come build — ambitious, confident and impa- sellout crowd of supporters at MSG on ment announcement, focused on infra- from the opportunity given to a newly con- tient with slackness of any kind." Sunday, and he’ll do so not just as the structure and industrial parks." fident Indian diaspora in the US to display "Rarely has any world leader come full leader of one of the world’s largest coun- "Given that Modi chose to roll out, with its wealth, influence and energy. Indian circle the way Mr. Modi has: Denied a US tries but also as a juggernaut of political great fanfare, his new “Make in India” ini- Americans make up about 1 percent of the visa for nearly a decade, Mr. Modi flies social media." tiative to attract foreign investment in US population and are significantly better into New York as an immensely popular "Among politicians, Mr. Modi ranks sec- manufacturing the day he left for New educated and twice as well off as the aver- leader and a sought-after strategic partner, ond behind only Barack Obama in number York, we can bet his single most important age household, according to latest US viewed as uniquely capable of balancing of fans of his official Facebook page (Mr. priority from his U.S. visit will be wooing Census Bureau data," the Guardian the might of a rising China," the NYT Modi has 21.8 million and counting). No foreign investment," the Forbes article reported. TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 Welcome

TheSouthAsianTimes.infoPrime Minister Shri Narendra Modi October 6-12, 201 14

Sushma to interact with over 100 foreign ministers in NY

New Delhi: India’s External returns, to attend the Oct 2 obser- attending the G-4 foreign minis- Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj vance of the UN Day of Non ters meeting along with her coun- would be meeting more than 100 Violence in honor of Mahatma terparts from Japan, Brazil and of her counterparts from across the Gandhi. She will be participating Germany, on UN Security Council world, including the new British in a series of meetings in New reforms. Foreign Secretary Philip York on the sidelines of the UN She would also attend the IBSA Hammond, during a slew of meet- General Assembly. (India, Brazil, South Africa) for- ings in New York in later part of She will hold bilateral meetings eign ministers meeting, the Gulf September. as well as participate in multilater- Cooperation Council (GCC) min- According to external affairs al meetings while she is in New isterial meeting, the India- ministry spokesperson Syed York, the spokesperson said. Community of Latin American Akbaruddin, Sushma Swaraj Among the bilateral meetings she and Caribbean States (CELAC) would travel to New York on Sept will hold there would be with ministerial meet with the troika of 23. She will accompany Prime Hammond who took over as Costa Rica, Cuba and Ecuador. Minister Narendra Modi to British foreign secretary on July There would also be the BRICS Washington for his summit meet- 15 this year from William Hague, (Brazil, Russia, India, China and ing with President Barack Obama who had come to India to interact South Africa) ministerial meeting, on Sept 30. with the new Indian government a G-77 meeting and a meeting of the On Sept 24, Sushma Swaraj, Minister of External Affairs, had The foreign minsiter will stay few days before handing over committee on Palestine among seven bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the 69th Session of the back, after the prime minister charge. Sushma Swaraj would be others, the spokesperson informed. UNGA - including with Philip Hammond, Secretary of State of UK. Senate designates Sept 30 as No plans for Modi-Sharif 'US-India Partnership Day' meeting in New York New Delhi: Washington, DC: The US Senate India plans for" and as of now has unanimously passed a biparti- Tuesday virtually ruled "there are no plans for a san resolution designating out a bilateral meeting meeting" between the two September 30 as 'US-India between Prime Minister leaders. He also said to Partnership Day' recognizing the Narendra Modi and another question that senior contribution of the two countries Pakistani Premier Nawaz Pakistani officials had held to one another and the relation- Sharif on the sidelines of a meeting with senior offi- ship that will continue to help the UN General cials of the external affairs define the 21st century. Assembly, saying there ministry, including Foreign Prime Minister Narendra Modi are "no plans for a meet- The authority of Pakistan PM Secretary Sujatha Singh, will be at the White House on ing". External affairs Nawaz Sharif is seen as which were in the nature of September 29-30 for talks with ministry spokesperson weakened by the ongoing "courtesy calls requested President Barack Obama. Syed Akbaruddin at a protest movement and by the by Pakistan". During the Introduced by Senators Mark briefing in Delhi also army asserting its position. meetings, India has con- Warner of Democratic Party and said in answer to a ques- veyed its disapproval of John Cornyn from Republicans tion that India has conveyed to Pakistan that Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit Democrat Mark Warner (left) and Republican "it was not proper for the Pakistan High persisting with holding meetings with sepa- on September 17, the resolution John Cornyn, co-chairmen of the Senate India Commissioner to have made a spectacle of ratist Kashmiri leaders, which led to New was passed unanimously Caucus, moved the resolution. moments before the Senate was his meeting with the Hurriyat" despite being Delhi calling off the Aug 25 foreign secre- adjourned. The Senate would now recon- ing of its religious, ethnic, socioeconomic asked not to, and India has taken "adverse tary-level meeting in Islamabad. Calling off vene on November 12 after the and cultural diversity, the resolution said. notice" of it. of the Aug 25 talks also dimmed the possi- Congressional elections. It said President Obama congratulated Asked if there was a "chance" of a meet- bility of the Modi-Sharif meeting in New Warner and Cornyn are co-chairmen of Modi after his electoral victory and empha- ing between Modi and Sharif in New York York, which would have been their second the Senate India Caucus — the only coun- sized the "deep bond and commitment to on the sidelines of the UNGA, Akbaruddin meeting after Sharif came to New Delhi to try specific caucus in the Senate. It has 42 promoting economic opportunity, freedom said that "chance is something no one has attend Modi's swearing-in on May 26. members. The resolution resolves that the and security" in India and the US. Senate "designates September 30, 2014 as The two largest democracies in the world, Visa on arrival facility on the anvil for US tourists the 'United States and India Partnership the US and India, have further developed Day' recognizing the contribution of the US their governments, businesses, non-profit New Delhi: India is working on a proposal sources. MHA in consultation with the and India to one another and their relation- organizations, non-governmental organiza- for visa on arrival (VoA) facility for US tourism ministry is working on the tourist ship that will continue to help define the tions, artists, entertainers, athletes, scien- tourists, one of the big-ticket announce- VoA under which visa can be granted to US 21st century" and recognize that the rela- tists, engineers, doctors, nurses, universi- ments expected to be made during Prime citizens who do not have a residence or tionship the two countries is "a special and ties, schools, and faiths and the dignity of Minister Narendra Modi's high-profile visit occupation in India and whose sole objec- permanent bond". their citizens by demonstrating the value of to the US beginning September 26. tive of visiting India would be recreation, The 2014 general election was the largest an enlightened democratic rule of law, a The ministry of home affairs was working sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends and in the Indian history, proving that democra- peaceful government, and freedom from overtime to finish the work on the VoA pro- relatives, etc, the sources said. Under the cy in India is as strong as it is encompass- terror, tyranny and oppression, it added. posal to finalize it in time for the Prime new proposal, which is still being worked Minister's visit, according to government out, the stay limit is expected to be 30 days. TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 16

‘PM visit to show his vision ‘Waiting to greet of India-US strategic ties’ PM Modi at MSG’

I am happy to know that The South Asian Times, one It is a great honor to welcome Prime Minister of the prominent and widely circulated newspapers Narendra Modi to the United States for his among the South Asian community in the Tri-State important and historic visit to America, and I area, is bringing out a special issue on the occa- cannot wait to greet him at Madison Square sion of the historic visit of Hon'ble Prime Minister Garden. of India, Shri Narendra Modi to the US. This is truly an exciting time for both India The visit of the Hon'ble Prime Minister, the first and the U.S. We are embarking on a new one to US after assuming the leadership, has a chapter of our global partnership, and special significance as American leadership, strengthening the special relationship that politicians, businessmen and people would be able exists between our countries. From global to understand his vision of our strategic partner- security to global warming, India is our partner ship. His visit to USA carries a special significance as in promoting democracy and progress, and that this is one of India's strongest partnerships. The diverse will continue to be the case for many years to bilateral relations have grown from strength to strength in the last few come. decades. At the political level, visit at the presidential level from the US side With well over half a billion votes cast in the recent elections, India and at the prime ministerial-level from India have created a strong bond and has once again proven that its place as the world’s largest democracy understanding. President Obama has hailed this as the defining partnership is well-deserved. The elections represent a moment of hope, and an of the 21st Century. Recent visits of three US Secretaries of State, Defence opportunity for India to further increase its influence on the world and Commerce, indicate close dialogue between our two countries. On the stage. economic side, USA is among India's largest partners with trade touching $ Although the U.S.-India relationship is stronger than it ever has been, 100 billion, large inflows of investment from the US, growing Indian IT com- Prime Minister Modi will seek to make it even better, and he’ll be taking munity's presence in US as well as growing number of technical and other all the right steps to accomplish this. During his visit, he’ll be holding an collaborations. On the strategic side too, several Government-to- unprecedented number of meetings with America’s business leaders to Government working groups interact on matters related to space, energy, further investment and increase trade. He’ll also focus on additional defence, security and other fields. issues to progress common goals such as energy, technology, cooper- Indian community in the US has emerged as a model minority. With their ation on counter-terrorism, and other mutual concerns. No doubt, strong family values, hard work, love for education and high aspirations, there will be many opportunities where we can partner together to Indians in the US have made name for themselves. Their accomplishments improve prosperity for both our countries. are recognized in various fields like academia, literature, science and tech- In addition, I applaud the Prime Minister for rallying the Indian- nology, corporate world and media. This community is also engaged in American community during his trip. Indian-Americans – more than 3 giving back to India through its social, economic and cultural contributions. million strong in the United States – are an important and vibrant com- Government of India, having recognized this invaluable overseas asset of munity that play a vital role in contributing to society, and making our India, has introduced several programs to create connectivity between the country great. diaspora and its motherland - India. Hon'ble Prime Minister would also be I am confident that the high hopes surrounding Prime Minister directly addressing the Indian community in New York. Modi’s visit will be met with success, and that U.S.-India ties will only On this occasion, I wish to convey my greetings to the Indian community continue to grow. I’m proud to share in the excitement of the Prime as well as to those who are actively involved in building India-US relations. Minister’s visit, and I send my best wishes to all who plan to My hearty compliments to The South Asian Times for bringing out this experience it.” timely supplement. Congresswoman Grace Meng (D) Amb. Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay Representing New York's 6th congressional district Consul General of India, New York

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Dr Navin Mehta ed taking serious and positive note of India Washington when UN is in session. The Arish Sahani and its potential. What Mr. Modi seems to fact that President Obama has nominated Specialist in Otolaryngology Vice-President, Indian American be doing is not stepping on anybody’s toes an Indian American as ambassador to India Intellectuals Forum for success, but making sure that the world too shows a great start and good faith in orn a Hindu 70 years ago, I look knows India’s strength. strengthening that same relationship. back and see how my people have Bsuffered for thousands of years. Sudhir Vaishnav Ravi Bhooplapur Many like myself - Punjabis, Sindhis, President , Xavier University School Of Bengalis -- have lost their ancestors’ lands CEO and President of GEN-I, Medicine to local converts of another religion. with TV channels such as Sahara Now, for the first time after 67 years of under its franchise rime Minister Modi’s experiences dynasty rule, we have a Prime Minister, and background are his greatest NaMo, whose message is not only for Pstrength. He recognizes and Hindus but for all of people living in India. acknowledges everyday Indian citizen’s His mission is simple and clear - "India worth and their problems. He uses a com- First" and "Sabka ka saath, sabka vikas." mon-sensical and open-minded approach to There is no appeasement. Only promise. people and problems. This approach allows His goal of “Congress Mukta Bharat” him to be agile in his responses to issues. was also the last wish of Mahatma Gandhi. His approach is new to the people of India. Now that we are free of the thousand It has brought a new energy, especially the years of slavery under Islam and the youth. I think we are all refreshed by his British, yet we have no land to call as our charya Kriplani told Mahatma embracing of new technologies and young own Hindu nation. It is time for the true Gandhi that no battle has been won talent, which should pay dividends with nationalist, Mr. NaMo to bring back the Awithout violence in the history of innovative solutions. natural spirit in all of us. the world. And Gandhi ji replied: If you I wish Mr. NaMo long life, support from he people of India could feel the join me in this nonviolence movement, we the universe and the divine to help him honesty and integrity in Narendra will write history which coming genera- achieve his goals. And they are now my Modi’s campaign speeches and his tions will study. The confidence with which T goals as well. appeal and zeal to move India forward as a these words were pronounced changed the major power helped him in reaching out to history of not only India but world history the masses. His promise of good gover- Akshat Kaul at large too. nance and abolishing corruption struck a AVP- Loan Officer NY, Indus American Bank That’s exactly what Prime Minister Modi chord with the public. With his proven has done for the people of India and leadership in Gujarat, he earned laurels not Indians everywhere. His war is against cor- only from the people of Gujarat, but major ruption. Modi Magic had changed the face conglomerates as well, who started invest- of Gujarat. Now the mandate given by mil- ed in the state. By organizing the annual lions of Indians reflects their faith in him. "Vibrant Gujarat" summit, Modi invited His views are reflected in some of his say- MNCs to set up business ventures in the ings like “One booth, ten youths”, which state and his trusted team has already start- underlines his faith in youth and the com- ed working tirelessly to fulfill his cam- ing generation. His recent statement, paign promises nationwide. “Toilets first, temples later” suggests that Already, he has attracted many world this man coming from grassroots level leaders to focus their attention on India. knows the needs of the vast Indian popula- Within a short span, he has met powerful I certainly think Prime Minister Modi is a tion. He does not speak much, believes in world leaders on a one on one basis, and step in the right direction for the country. irst impressions may not be last doing. Like what Chanakya said: attracted investments from Japan, China, He has provided a different mindset to the impressions, but they certainly are “Manasaa chintitam kaaryam vaachsa na and Germany to name a few. His openness people. His rags-to-riches story has given lasting impressions and Mr Modi has prakaashayet mantrena rakshayed and his views on FDI in India have gar- the youth hope and shown them that any- F shown that he can walk the talk when it gooDham kaarye chaapi niyojayet” nered great interest in opening up new thing is possible with hard work and deter- matters the most. Some of the key decisions (Do not reveal what you have planned to avenues and expanding trade agreements mination. I think that is the appeal that which will strengthen the Indian economy do, the best counsel is to keep it a secret with other countries. Under Modi Ji’s lead- launched him into national prominence. It are: (a) Modi’s tireless work on improving and try to execute it with determination.) ership we can expect a rapid progress in the may be too soon to tell whether India has bilateral ties with other South Asian coun- Already he has addressed a lot of major modernization of transportation, defense, finally taken the leap from developing to tries to re-establish India’s claim to becom- issues. From defense to finance to interna- technology, communication, and manufac- developed nation, but we certainly have it ing a major player in South East Asia (b) tional relations, he has showed a firm hand turing. within ourselves to do so. in decision making. $30+ billion from Modi’s style and panache of reaching out The prime minister has India looking to projects up to Rs 1,000 crore not to require Japan, $24+ billion from China and taking to neighboring countries and propagating R&D as the area India intends to use to cat- cabinet’s approval, thus paring the cost of up border issues with the Chinese Premier. peaceful dialogue in negotiating issues apult into a leadership role in the world. execution of projects (c) ‘Make in India’ BRICS summit was used skillfully to the have also earned him much appreciation Any time we can solve a problem in a mantra focusing on improving the trade advantage of India. And now USA. and respect. uniquely Indian way, the world will take deficit (d) opening bank accounts for the Modi’s rise to the top office in the nation Modi’s US visit is of great importance in notice and study our results. masses, thus involving them in the financial has changed the perspective of the world re-establishing the Indo-US relationship With so many problems in the world system and ensuring that economic prosper- towards India and Indians. and taking it to the next level – note that today, the US and India should seek to be ity reaches. Witness the rise and rise of the After a long time one can walk tall as an several senior US diplomats have made partners. Many times our interests overlap. Sensex, which goes on to show that Indian Indian on the streets of New York. quick trips to India, and President Obama There is much common ground for the two economy has found a new confidence Business houses and politicians have start- is spending two days with him in nations to build on. under Modi. TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 20

Nilima Madan power has elevated the image of Indians fur- already been addresses by him, for example, already raised the profile of India in the ther, making all Indians proud. asking people to maintain clean India as a world as his recent meetings with Japanese Active in OFBJP way to promote tourism that will create and Chinese leaders show. At long last, India employment. is able to open the dialogue with China. othing succeeds like success! At elec- Rakesh Bhargava Modi has built a groundswell by covering Modi’s skilful diplomacy is earning him lau- tion time 'Modi Magic' took India by General Partner at MangoTree Real Estate many nations prior to visiting US; hence rels. I am confident that the visiting Prime storm and expectations soared not Holdings N wheels are moving in the right direction for Minister would further forge ties with US and aMo won Election 2014 based on his only for the enhanced India-US relations. US is pro-busi- track record and communication abil- in the best advantage of India. He also has the average ness and by promoting Make in India, he ities to instill confidence in the mass- golden opportunity to repair and build Indian, but N will court US businesses to come to India. es irrespective of their caste or station in life. healthy relations with the US business com- also heads India offers a large source of young talent and People realized that under his leadership their munity. turned around labor pool and huge growing market for US future will be During Prime Minister Atal Bihari the globe. businesses. US would like to reduce its better than the Vajpayee's tenure, the Indo-US relationship Narendra dependence on China as their aging popula- past. His went really deep for the first time since the Modi’s three tion and pollution is stressing their low cost patriotic zeal 1962 Sino-Indian War. terms as CM advantage. and vision to in Gujarat Modi government has begun well. Indians transform the became a all over are filled with renewed enthusiasm, nation, able Jagdish Sewhani benchmark hope and confidence. Ministers and bureau- administrator, President, American India Public Affairs and the devel- crats arrive on time and work long hours in integrity and Committee opment seen offices and are held accountable for deliver- incorruptibili- n mere 100 days, the new government there became ing results. No corruption is reported at the ty, charisma under Narendra Modi has brought in a desirable aim. He was seen as an answer to government level. Regional parties appreci- are added reforms that have set in motion a new uprooting corruption in India. After the land- ate efforts of Modi government to improve I bonuses. beginning for India, which was stalled by ris- slide poll win, the NDA government is trying Centre-State relations. Minorities increasing- Excessive ing prices, widening fiscal and current hard to live up to expectations. Amidst the ly support Modi. Prompt flood relief in negative account deficit and not to forget the corrup- hype, some experts feared some backlash and Kashmir has assured people that Modi gov- reporting by tion and red tape that marred the previous maybe the recent by-elections tell a tale. ernment can deliver results. Overall, Modi's media for 2002 riots in Gujarat despite him government. After Modi took charge, some As PM, Modi has bravely taken several popularity has increased since he was voted being exonerated by SIT, gave him wide visi- admirable steps. His remarkable lead economic indicators have shown posi- bility and publicity that he skilfully converted to power. Independence Day speech, gifting of 'Gita' tive growth. With the focus on refueling in his favor. His deep knowledge and belief and promising 'red carpet' not 'red tape' to growth, taming price pressures, facilitating in ancient Vedas and traditional Hindu val- investors have all been well received. In all Sunil Modi industrial and business environment and sim- ues, which respect all cultures and religions, fairness, changes needed in India will take lot President, Association of Indians in plifying the policies and procedures with a struck a chord with all. Massive corruption of time. India faces many challenges at home America- NY focus on less government and more gover- and indecision by the previous government and vis-à-vis neighboring countries for abid- ndian citizens were frustrated for years by nance, India is now writing a new chapter in had made people lose faith in the then a series of corruption scandals. The its growth story. ing solutions. War, sectarian tensions and ter- regime’s ability to govern. None of the for- change of guard in New Delhi will pro- I’ve been closely following his decisions, rorism are always unpredictable and a threat. mer PMs rose from state level to national I vide oppor- policies and governance style. Some of the India's future will depend on bringing level and NaMo has that advantage. He was tunities for major reforms underway include – develop- changes in the criminal justice system, policy born in poverty, so he can relate to ordinary fast-tracking ment of 100 smart cities, highway projects reform, improved railways, bullet trains, tax people much better. economic worth Rs 40,000 crore, roadmap on Ganga reforms, increased manufacturing, skill People do accept that India is in a fast for- development Clean up mission, launch of Jan Dhan Yojana development, improved infrastructure, finan- ward mode under Modi. His vast experience as well as aimed at providing bank accounts to the poor, cial and social stability, etc. I have initiated as a grassroot RSS worker in several states expand Make in India campaign, and digital India an appeal to the PM to declare Jan 1 as a has given him first-hand experience of the 'National Day' called 'Nari Samman Diwas' cooperation plan to connect all gram panchayats by problems faced by the country. This enables broadband internet. because women related issues surface time him to make right decisions for the welfare of with other and again and the best way to deal with them nations on And as we are aware Modi’s foreign policy masses. NaMo is also mindful that progress is initiatives have already won India a sweet is to change attitude towards women where defence and inclusive and green. However, people spot in the world. the society respects them. expecting a quick fix will be disappointed. security. In On 'Women's Reverence Day' everyone NaMo has done more in the international four months will be reminded year after year to make a arena in four months than his predecessor in the Modi pledge for honoring, promoting, protecting, 10 years. He brought the world’s attention to government has proved his intentions to lift uplifting, educating, respecting women India with renewed vigor by taking pre-medi- the country from its earlier chaotic condition besides creating awareness to prevent atroci- tated soft yet powerful steps. Visiting temples to a stable economy. People have faith in ties. Special incentives should be instituted in Bhutan, Nepal and Japan, he highlighted Modi’s patriotic zeal and vision to transform on this day to report wrong doing and crimes our common ancient cultural bond. Modi's the nation. He is an able administrator and against women. stress on traditional culture of India, which incorruptible as well as a charismatic politi- Many professionals from India who have professes spirituality, yoga, Ayurveda, and cal leader. settled around the world are held in high welfare of all is a blueprint for world peace With NaMo guiding the destiny of the esteem, support many charitable causes to and prosperity of humanity. A few small yet nation, I believe India will be catapulted to help the needy in India. Modi's coming to compelling issues India has faced have the league of developed nations. He has

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Mike Narula tion resulted in a Modi Mandate speaks to the weaponized Islam's peace. India, like necessities-- that will raise India’s profile. young Indian's absorption of America, Pakistan, provides a huge number of UN I’d advice tempering the euphoria that has President & CEO, American ethos and political system and Peacekeepers. been built. Reliance Communications desire to benefit from the same instantly. It Finally, India's MOM's (Mars Orbiter also speaks to the role of social media in a Mission) success as the first nation to do so, Mahendra Vora post-Arab Spring world, where party politi- and that too on a $74 million budget, speaks cians are dis-intermediated by social media to India's riches being in its people. PM Chairman & MD PM Manmohan Singh and Congress chief Modi's arrival in the US for the UNGA and a Vora Ventures, Ohio Mrs. Sonia Gandhi set India on a path that summit with President Obama now has a new ndia has been on a roll, but needed a serves now-PM Modi well: economic credential - India's people are smart and driv- leader with vision, character, courage and reforms to unleash every Indian's dreams as en to touch the stars. Want to play together commitment to channel its intellectual national growth. India has been a member of and build a better economy with Indian I power and young work force into a massive the BRIC, and hence, was already identified smarts?" socio-economic success. And that’s as a future powerhouse. Now, Modi, armed Narendrabhai. A leader billion+ people fol- with his mandate, and free of a coalition's Dr Shashi Shah low and trust. More than a beacon of hope, he painful drag, is able to take India where the is the catalyst to convert our potential into prior government wished and wanted. National President, Association of Indians in America (AIA) reality. From China, Japan and now USA – in just here was widespread disenchantment four months – he has raised India’s profile. with the governance system in India Next, he will turn this initial efforts of bon- ith Narendra Modi at the helm, is Twith the young Indians – 50% + of the homie into tangible areas of strategic partner- India finally taking a leap from population -- hankering for change. AAP’s ships built on complementary skills and Wdeveloping to the developed showing in Delhi polls last year was a signal. resources. This will increase SAARC nations league? Absolutely! This is the tip- Narendra Modi nicely harvested that frustra- region’s influence in deciding the future of ping point that positions India to earn the tion and won a stunning victory – the BJP of the world, and, in turn, establish India as the recognition of a Developed Nation. Fastest Vajpayee and Advani could not have done it. clear leader in the region. conversion ever! NaMo can deepen India-US relations by India has always been known to be a peace broad-basing the partnership in areas of peo- loving country and clearly under the leader- ple-to-people contact, ease of travel, co- ship of NaMo, Prosperity will become the investing in R&D, and creating opportunities middle name of the entire population and that leverage India’s intellectual capital and beyond. younger work force, coupled with the USA’s Everything the Indian prime minister has expertise and success capital. He can and will done so far is steering the US-India relation leave US with a clear conclusion for Washington that when it comes to peace and to the next level and probably the closet ever Now, a young digitally-connected and progress, India is their best partner in the where the two largest and the strongest savvy India is full of promise of realizing, in world. democracies will lead the world into 21st full measure, the American Dream, albeit, Narendrabhai is serious about everything century together. Indian style. he has talked pre- and post-elections, and he As for assessing Modi government’s per- The comity of nations welcomes India’s is the CEO India needed to get the job done. formance so far, the best way to describe this mandate-rich PM as 1.3 billion Indians are The way he has made the government work would be how all Indians enjoy a one-day capable of adding value to every nation's bot- and think like private sector and created the International Cricket match where India tom line, while consuming a whole lot of new energy and work-ethic for the country is elects to bat and come out swinging hard, on goods and services. just unimaginable. I personally have found a track to score 400+ runs and we all know On India-US relations, after the bilaterally It is too early to assess Modi govt’s per- new meaning of Leadership and Governance. what is outcome of that match. “World Cup!” self-inflicted wounds, some of which spilled formance because emotions are easy, actions As an NRI I can say he is a leader who will Indian community in the US had always out in the open in the Devyani affair, both and results take longer. After celebrations let attract our NRI children back to India for wished the best for India and is excited to see nations have been tiptoeing around each reality kick in then we will know how he is opportunities. Who wouldn’t be excited about that under the leadership of the new dynamic other since the beginning of 2014. able to take the entire county along. Sure, he having such a leader visit us? Prime Minister, it will actually happen so Congressional leaders convened a US/India has kindled enthusiasm. He is on their grand welcome is a sign of everyone’s Roundtable Discussion in July, which had 25 the right path. But a lot needs to enthusiasm and confidence they have in him. members of Congress and about 30 invited be done. How we NRIs suffer Americans from across our nation, among because of the visa/passport Ravi Batra them Ranju and me. Of the few speakers, I problems at our consulates! And was blunt in my love potion: we need a Eminent attorney there is no solution in sight. "Respectful Reset" with India. What I had to The fractious verdict of the say was adopted by several other always wish India and Indians well, but I recent by-elections shows that Congressional speakers, as America's desire would not dare claim to know why people are voting for progress-- to be intimate with India is real - and India IIndians voted in Modi. Clearly, this was no matter if the party is BJP or needs to stop trying to get the very best deal beyond the typical anti-incumbency vote that AAP. On India’s role as world it can secure if it is to create a generational every ruling party has to deal with the world guru, I differ. NaMo should take "Bank of Goodwill" like the one that exists over. What is obvious is that the Indian voters care of India first, something he between US and Britain. wanted change - wholesale change. Also, said in his Independence Day I also wish India to stand shoulder-to- Modi ran his campaign akin to a candidate address. India has to grow with shoulder with us as we address ISIS and its running for US President. That such a bold peace and harmony and take root causes of birth, and defeat evil that has Mrs and Mr Mahendra Vora flanking NaMO departure from local law and local constitu- care of infrastructure and basic TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 Welcome Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi 24

(Left) Now the larger-than-life prime minister, Narendra Modi had very humble beginnings and a life story that did not move in a straight line. (Top) The BJP poll campaign early this year mounted with Modi as prime ministerial candidate exuded vision, mission and passion – it combined hi-tech like Modi’s holograms and harvested social media to the hilt. By Hiral Dhalakia-Dave economy. sentiment, people’s confidence and world- phy of successful people to understand His administrative skills, often dubbed view of India. their background, hardships and how they n August 15, 2014 when the Prime authoritarian, have fast-tracked Gujarat’s On September 5th during Modi’s interac- shone through difficult times. His own Minister of the world’s largest development and now despite leading just tion with students on the occasion of story is no less intriguing. From humble Odemocracy spoke from the ram- a four-month old government has given a Teachers’ Day which was broadcast nation- beginnings in a small town Vadnagar in parts of the Red Fort in New Delhi, mil- much needed powerful boost to investors’ wide he urged young minds to read biogra- Gujarat as one of six siblings he grew up as lions in India and world over, probably for the first time, felt a connect with the head of a nation who not only inspired them to Nuggets from Modi’s amazing life story do their bit for their motherland but also Bal Narendra - took great pride in calling himself ‘Pradhan Childhood Stories of Sevak’ and not ‘Pradhan Mantri.’ Narendra Modi, a comic book brought out A taskmaster, who within hours of his by Rannade Prakashan and Blue Snail swearing in could get the entire bureaucrat- Animation, tells stories of bravery and fear- ic machinery on their toes – shaking up lessness from Modi's childhood. The comic years of lethargy inflicted babudom, book is a catalog of larger-than-life deeds Narendra Damodardas Modi has been for his family, friends and society in general. proving his detractors wrong from day one! The 45- page comic book shows Modi res- No Indian politician has been subjected cuing a drowning boy, swimming in croco- to the amount of vilification he has gone dile infested waters, serving tea and food to through by his critics, his opponents and soldiers going to war in 1962, taking on the media. Yet, this son of an ordinary tea- school bullies, helping his father sell tea, stall owner not only went on to become the acting in theater, strategizing his team's chief minister of a state for four consecu- kabaddi win and saving a trapped bird. tive terms but also won the post of nation’s 15th prime minister with a thumping As a teen Narendra Modi left home and majority. wandered to as far as North East. Among the Clearly there is much more to this places that he traveled to included the dynamic personality which incidentally his Himalayas (where he stayed at critics, despite the clear mandate, still love Garudachatti) and Ramakrishna Ashram in to trash but his supporters adore whole- West Bengal. These travels left a lasting Secretary of the Gujarat BJP in one year. His party set-up. Three years later in 2001 the heartedly. impression on the youngster. He traveled organizational skills were behind the Nyay party entrusted him with the responsibility From a teenager volunteering to serve the across the expansive landscape of India Yatra of 1987 and Lok Shakti Yatra in 1989. of taking over as the Chief Minister of soldiers in transit at railway stations to a exploring the various cultures in various These efforts played a major role in the BJP Gujarat. Since then he was re-elected as CM master strategist and organizer helping his parts of the country. It was also a time of coming to power in Gujarat first for a brief in 2002, 2007 and in 2012 political party – the Bharatiya Janata Party spiritual awakening for him that connected period in 1990 and then from 1995 till date. - win crucial elections be it at municipal, him further to a man he always admired - He became the National Secretary of the Modi got involved in anti-Emergency Assembly or national level, Modi has Swami Vivekananda. BJP in1995 and in 1998 was given the struggle. Became integral part of Gujarat evolved into a brilliant leader capable of responsibility of General Secretary Lok Sangharsh Samiti (GLSS), a movement catapulting a billion strong nation into a Modi took the plunge into mainstream (Organization), a very important post in the to restore democracy. formidable force in global politics and politics in 1987 and became the General 25

a compassionate youngster who didn’t ed to give up ‘sanyas’ life and returned He joined the Navnirman movement and Gujarat in 1975. During the movement, he think twice before jumping into a river to home. After returning, Modi ran a tea stall dutifully performed the tasks assigned to particularly got the opportunity to under- save a drowning boy, helped his mother with his brother at the State Transport him. The Navnirman movement was a stand student issues from close quarters, Hiraba in household chores and served tea Office in Ahmedabad. mass movement in every sense as ordinary which proved to be a major asset once he at his father’s tea stall. In fact, he still In 1972 he became a Pracharak, giving citizens from all sections of the society became Chief Minister. The optimism post makes it a point to meet his mother on his his full time to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak stood up in one voice. The movement was the Navnirman Movement in Gujarat was birthday to seek her blessings. Sangh (RSS), a socio-cultural organization. further strengthened when it gained the short-lived. On the midnight of June 25th Modi was highly inspired by the life and He shared his accommodation with other support of Jayaprakash Narayan, a well- 1975, Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi teachings of Swami Vivekananda and was Pracharaks in Ahmedabad and followed a respected public figure and known crusader clamped a state of Emergency in India sus- always fascinated with sadhus, different rigorous daily routine. The day began at against corruption. Modi had the unique pending civil liberties and curbing freedom forms of worship and meditation. He ran 5:00 am and went on till late night. In the opportunity to closely interact with the of expression. One of the most important away from home after completing his midst of such a hectic routine Modi com- charismatic leader. The several talks held phases of Modi’s life had begun. school education. He visited many places pleted a degree in political science. with the veteran left a strong impression on Conducting several clandestine opera- including Ramakrishna Mission headquar- As India’s first prime minister to have the mind of a young Narendra. tions with other nationalist leaders Modi ters in Belur, West Bengal. Finally, he been born post independence (September The Navnirman Movement was Modi’s mobilized support and voice against reached the Himalayas, wandered around, 17, 1950), Modi has been part of some of first encounter with mass protest and led to Emergency. Rest as they is history and here staying with unnamed yogis and sadhus for the most important political and civil a significant broadening of his worldview we have a leader who heads the govern- long periods. After two years of wandering movements as RSS Pracharak and subse- on social issues. It also propelled him to ment in independent India not by virtue of in the Himalayas without money and with quently as associate of Akhil Bharatiya the first post of his political career, General his birth but by karmas he wrought himself two pairs of clothes, one fine day he decid- Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Secretary of the Lok Sangharsh Samiti in in this life!

Modi (right) with BJP stalwarts. Narendra Modi dressed as a Sikh The boy who grew to be India’s around the year 1975 during the 15th Prime Minister. Emergency . Joins BJP as Organization Secretary of Gujarat Unit. 1987.

Modi is a lifelong practitioner of yoga and meditation.

Joins the RSS in 1972, takes a conscious decision to devote his entire life towards service of the nation.

Sworn in as Gujarat Chief Minister for the first time in 2001. 26

The Sangh Parivar BJP: For a strong, stable, inclusive & prosperous India

fresh chapter in the history of Indian politics was written in 1980 Awhen the Bharatiya Janata Party was born under the Presidentship of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The BJP’s precursor, the Bharatiya Jan Sangh was active in Indian politics through the 1950s, 60s and 70s and its leader Shri Shyama Prasad Mukherjee had served in the first ever Cabinet of Seen at a 1939 RSS meeting are RSS Independent India. The Jan Sangh was an founder Dr K.B. Hedgewar (2nd from integral part of the Janata Party govern- Ministers across India who are determined Narendra Modi government. During his left) and his successor Guruji M.S. ment under Morarji Desai from 1977-1979. to continue working for a strong and glori- tenure as minister, he has held several port- Golwalkar (2nd from right). ous India. folios including that of transport, police, (Source: narendramodi.in) housing, border security, civil defense, angh parivar in the ordinary political home guards, prison, excise, law and jus- jargon, found in the media and heard New BJP President Amit Shah tice, parliamentary affairs and the coveted Son the political platform, means a home ministry. conglomeration of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Shah’s skill in political strategy and Sangh (RSS), Vishwa Hindu Parishad orn on October 22, 1964, politics vision led to his appointment as the (VHP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was not in Amit Shah’s blood. General Secretary of the party in 2010 and Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad BInstead, it was the desire to serve in-charge (Prabhari) of electorally signifi- (ABVP), Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, the society that was passed on to him by cant state of Uttar Pradesh. Within a short Swadeshi Jagaran Manch, Bajrang Dal and his philanthropist family. At a tender age of span of time, Shah turned around the elec- other allied organizations. To an RSS vol- 14, he joined the RSS as a ‘Tarun toral fortunes of the BJP in UP and deliv- unteer, the word parivar kindles feelings of BJP stalwarts L.K. Advani, Atal Bihari Syawamsevak’. That was the turning point ered a spectacular result, in which the BJP fraternal bond towards fellow Vajpaye and Murli Manohar Joshi in a of his life. and its allies won 73 out of 80 Lok Sabha Swayamsevaks, and filial affection to the 2002 photograph. seats. BJP’s vote share in the state younger generations in the Sangh family. increased almost two and half times in less Unlike other political, social and cultural Since its inception, BJP has been deter- than two years when he was the Prabhari of organizations, RSS, right from inception, mined to create a strong, self-reliant, inclu- UP. Shah was also a Member of BJP’s has been conceived only as a joint family sive and prosperous India that draws inspi- Election Panel and in 2014, given the of all Hindu brethren. ration from our ancient culture and ethos. responsibility of public relations, mass The founder of the RSS, Dr. Keshav The party has been deeply inspired by the marketing and new voter enrollment. His Baliram Hedgewar, discovered the truth philosophy of ‘Integral Humanism’ pro- result-oriented strategy-making skills that the only way in which lasting unity pounded by Pt Deen Dayal Upadhyaya. played an important role in the enviable could be created among provinces of the In a rather short period the BJP rose to result for the BJP in 2014 Lok Sabha elec- vast country and having multifarious reli- become a major force to reckon with in the tions. He was rewarded with the coveted gious faiths and cultural and traditional Indian political system. In 1989 (9 years position of President of the ruling BJP, tak- diversities, is to bring them all under the since its inception), the party’s tally in the ing over from Rajnath Singh. spell of an intimate brotherhood by incul- Lok Sabha shot up from 2 (in 1984) to 86 cating the feeling of intense love and ado- seats and it was at the center of anti- Arun Jaitley, Minister of ration of the Motherland as the Supreme Congress movement that led to the creation Mother of all. of the National Front, which governed Finance and Defence This bond extends and expands outside India from 1989-1990. The rise continued the Sangh Shaka and the families of the through the 1990s as BJP formed govern- Swayamsevaks come together like mem- ments in several states following the bers of a bigger clan. The leaders of the assembly elections of 1990. In 1991 it RSS - the Pracharaks, Sanghchalaks, became the principal opposition party in Karyavahaks, Mukhyashikshaks, etc - the Lok Sabha, a remarkable feat for a In 1982, as a student of biochemistry, he function like the elders in family, sharing rather young party. became secretary of the students’ organiza- the joys and sorrows of the members and Over the years the BJP formed govern- tion, Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad in always extending help and care to the ments and alliances in several states of Ahmedabad. He later became the secretary needy. India. It draws support from every section of BJP Ahmedabad city unit. There was no Dr. Hedgewar envisaged that the Parivar of Indian society and believes in the agen- looking back after that. Shah went on to should expand to such an extent that the da of development and good governance. hold many crucial posts to rise up in the entire Hindu society is brought into the In the summer of 1996, Atal Bihari ranks of the Gujarat unit of BJP. He bond of brotherhood and ultimately the Vajpayee was sworn in as the nation’s became the national treasurer of Bharatiya Sangh would merge in the society. In other Prime Minister, the first to do so with a Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) in 1997 and words, every Hindu family would feel that complete non-Congress background. The later Vice President of the Gujarat State JP leader and a member of Rajya it is a part and parcel of this big family. He BJP got the mandate of the people in the unit of the BJP. Sabha since 2000, Arun Jaitley has lived only for 15 years after founding the elections of 1998 and 1999, governing the In 1995, Shah was elected, for the first Bheld several ministerial posts since Sangh. However, under the patriarch-ship country for six years from 1998-2004 time, as an MLA from Sarkhej constituen- 1999. This is Jaitley's first stint as Finance of the second Sarsanghchalak, Sri Guruji under Vajpayee. The NDA government cy. He was re-elected in 1998, 2002 and Minister. He had served as Trade Minister Golwalkar, the Sangh grew in leaps and under Vajpayee is still remembered for its 2007 and 2012. and Law Minister more than a decade ago bounds from Kanyakumari to Kashmir and development initiatives. In 1995, during the tenure of Keshubhai under the NDA government led by the BJP. from Dwaraka to Kamakhya, and even Today BJP is ruling in many states and is Patel as CM of Gujarat, Shah became the Jaitley has set out his stall as an advocate spread its wings to distant lands where the principal opposition party in several youngest chairman of Gujarat State of fiscal prudence and growth-friendly Hindus are settled. other states. It boasts of some of the most Financial Corporation (G.S.F.C.). In 2002, policies. He has called for faster approvals (Source: gowalkarguruji.org) talented leaders and competent Chief he became the Minister of State in Continued on page 28

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Continued from page 26... Minister of UP and was twice elected as said New Delhi will always share the outside by her spirited campaign. The BJP for infrastructure projects and criticized MLA from Haidargarh constituency in Afghan people's vision of a "strong" and was able to form its government in arbitrary tax rulings under the previous Barabanki. In 2002, he became National "prosperous" Afghanistan. Karnataka ten years later, the party's first government for stifling investment. General Secretary of BJP. "This is a critical decade of transforma- government in south India. As the minister in charge of trade, he led In May 2003, he became Union Minister tion for Afghanistan. India will always be Sushma Swaraj has been re-elected to the India in talks at the World Trade of Agriculture and subsequently for Food Afghanistan's first strategic partner," she Lok Sabha from Vidisha in Madhya Organization, blocking attempts by devel- Processing. During this period he initiated said at the inauguration of the Indian Pradesh. oped countries to gain greater access to a few epoch making projects like Kisan chancery in Kabul. Born in Ambala Cantonment in Haryana, emerging markets without reducing agri- Call Center and Farm Income Insurance "And we will always share the Afghan Swaraj studied at S.D. College in Ambala cultural subsidies. Since 2002, he has Scheme. people's vision of a strong, independent, and later studied law at Panjab University. emerged as a leading party strategist, Rajnath Singh served as BJP National united and prosperous Afghanistan for In her new role, Swaraj is keen to win scripting several of its victories in state President from January 2013 to July 2014 which so many Afghans sacrificed so over enemies and make new friends while elections. and was instrumental in getting Narendra much," Swaraj maintained. keeping the Indian foreign policy in high A patrician figure who would not be out Modi anointed as the party’s prime minis- Besides, she reiterated India's commit- esteem. of place in London's High Court, Jaitley is terial candidate despite opposition by sen- ment to stand by the civilian government of - Meenakshi Iyer son of a successful lawyer. He was educat- ior leaders like LK Advani. And the Modi Afghanistan, a step even lauded by the sen- ed in an elite New Delhi school and at the wave got created, catapulting the party to ior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor. Smriti Irani, HRD Minister prestigious Delhi University, where he was power. Earlier, in Nepal, Swaraj met top leaders a students’ union leader in the youth wing including President Ram Baran Yadav and of the BJP. Sushma Swaraj Prime Minister Sushil Koirala. She also A close confidante of Prime Minsiter met UCPN-Maoist chief and Leader of Narendra Modi, Jaitley was inducted into External Affairs Minister Opposition Prachanda. Swaraj visited the cabinet despite losing the Lok Sabha Nepal to co-chair the meeting of the Indo- election from Amritsar to Maharaja hen the BJP's top leader Sushma Nepal Joint Commission after a gap of 23 Amarinder Singh of Congress party. Swaraj was given the baton of years. During the visit, India told Nepal WIndia's External Affairs Minister that the new government in New Delhi is Rajnath Singh on May 26 this year, the vision was clear: keen to impart "renewed momentum" to to utilize her suave oratory skills to make a their multifaceted bilateral ties even as the Union Home Minister lasting impact on the changing world two countries decided to step up coopera- diplomatic order. tion in key areas of defense, security, trade In little over three months, she has and hydro power. proved her mettle. From being part of The two countries also agreed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first offi- "review" and adjust" the Treaty of Peace cial visit to Bhutan to her stand-alone suc- and Friendship of 1950 to reflect the cur- cessful foreign visits to Bangladesh, Nepal, rent realities. Afghanistan, Myanmar, Singapore, Quick witted and articulate, Sushma Vietnam, Tajikistan and Bahrain, she has Swaraj is well regarded in the BJP for her TV star, Smriti Irani's political shown a new spirit, dedication and zeal oratorical skills. Swaraj has blazed some journey started in 2003 when she seen after a long time in an Indian foreign records in her over three decade-old politi- Ajoined the BJP. In the 2014 general minister. cal career including being the youngest election, the gutsy Smriti took on Congress Here comes the big moment: to accompa- cabinet minister in Haryana and the first Vice President Rahul Gandhi in his pocket ny Modi from New York to Washington, woman chief minister of Delhi. borough of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh and DC for the summit meeting with US Swaraj, 62, has enthusiastically per- gave him a tough fight. She lost, but being orn in a farmer's family in village President Barack Obama on September 30. formed tasks assigned to her by her party a Rajya Sabha MP from Gujarat, she is Babhora, Uttar Pradesh, Rajnath The minister is scheduled to return to including contesting the election from now an important member of Modi’s cabi- BSingh completed his MSc Physics New York for United Nations related meet- Bellary in Karnataka against Congress net, holding the key Human Resource from Gorakhapur University and worked as ings including commemoration of non-vio- president Sonia Gandhi. Development ministry. a lecturer at K.B. Post-Graduate College, lence Day by UN on October 2 before fly- Appointed Leader of Opposition in the In her life, every decision she took turned Mirzapur. ing back to India. 15th Lok Sabha, Swaraj led from the front into a stepping stone, taking Smriti closer He was a brilliant student and an active During her brief visit to Bangladesh — in attacking the UPA government on its to stardom and politics. As a young daugh- RSS worker. He became the RSS karyavah her first as foreign minister — Swaraj sent perceived failures. She also shared cama- ter of a conservative Punjabi-Bengali fami- (General Secretary) of Mirzapur city in out a strong message that her government raderie with the treasury benches, some- ly, she broke free of the norms and decided 1972. Also remained organizational secre- would build upon the momentum of the times reciting poetry to lighten up the to try her luck in the glamour world. Ekta tary of ABVP Gorakhpur division from relations between the two countries. atmosphere in the House.Swaraj was a Kapoor roped her in to play Tulsi Virani in 1969 to 1971. He entered mainstream poli- Recently in Kabul, describing India as minister in the Vajpayee governments and her long running TV show “Kyunki… tics in 1974. Afghanistan's first strategic partner, Swaraj headed ministries including information Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi”. Smriti's popu- Rajnath’s list of achievements runs long. and broadcasting and health. larity soared and she became the most pop- As Education minister in 1992 he took ini- Into her seventh term as an MP, Sushma ular 'bahu' of the small screen. Meanwhile, tiative and got Anti Copying Act Passed. Swaraj has had a checkered political career she settled down with her childhood friend When he was state president in 1998, the starting as a member of the Haryana Zubin Irani, a Parsi. But with an itch to do BJP registered its best ever performance in assembly in 1977. She was appointed a something more, she plunged into politics, UP, winning 58 seats in the Lok Sabha cabinet minister in the state the same year. and her dedication and determination took election. She was first elected as a MP in 1990 and her places. After holding key positions like He became a member of the Rajya Sabha became a member of the Rajya Sabha. the national secretary of BJP and All India in 1994 and also the Chief Whip of the BJP The BJP brought her in as chief minister President of the BJP Mahila Morcha in in Rajya Sabha. of Delhi in 1998 months before the assem- 2010, she became party’s vice-president. In November 1999, he became Union bly elections to shore up the party's for- Smriti once said that she has an “ideolog- Surface Transport Minister. During this tunes. She remained in the post for about ical umbilical cord with the BJP...we are period he got the opportunity to initiate the three months. A lawyer by training, three generation party supporters... my NHDP (National Highway Development Sushma Swaraj went all the way to Bellary grandfather was a Swayamsevak, my Program), a dream project of Prime External Affairs Minister Sushma in Karnataka to challenge Sonia Gandhi in mother a BJP booth activist". Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Swaraj meeting Afghanistan President the 1999 Lok Sabha election. Though she Smriti Irani is described by many as In October 2000, he became Chief Hamid Karzai in Kabul recently. lost, she gained in stature in the party and "Sushma Swaraj of the Modi-led BJP”.

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Modi launches 'Make in India' campaign, portal and logo

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in several areas. "The processes of applying Thursday launched his pet "Make in India" for licences has been made online, it is 24/7. campaign to put India prominently on the The validity of such licences has also been global manufacturing map and, in turn, facil- extended to three years," Sitharaman said. itate the inflow of new technology and capi- "Make in India is not a slogan but a mis- tal, while creating millions of jobs. sion to be accomplished with a single-mind- The ambitious scheme, that also puts in ed commitment." At the event some top place the logistics and systems to address in industrialists and executives, among the 500 a timely manner queries of potential who had gathered here, were also invited to investors, was unveiled along with a logo, a speak. portal and brochures on 25 identified growth "This program offers a unique and timely sectors before Who's Who of the corporate opportunity to make India truly global," Tata world from India and abroad at Vigyan Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry said, adding, Bhavan here. The event was watched live in countries attain high standards with a vibrant several cities in India and abroad via video industrial economy and the biggest chal- conferencing. Laying out the red carpet lenge is to create jobs for millions of youth. before investors, Modi said: "After what we Kenichi Ayukawa, MD of Maruti Suzuki have done and what I hear from you, I don't India, said his Japanese group was among think I need to assure you any further on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other ministers at the launch of "Make in the first to invest in India and remains com- 'Make in India'." He hoped industry across India Mission" at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi Thursday. mitted to the country. He said he was sure the globe will take his invitation seriously. India will eventually become one of the He said he was saddened in the past to see FDI for the domestic industry did not is the step of a Lion... Make in India." most competitive economies. scores of Indians leaving the country to seek expand to "foreign direct investment" but Ahead of the launch of the campaign, "Today we commit ourselves to the 'Make opportunities elsewhere. People have lost "first develop India". "We have to create Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in India' movement that was given to us by faith in Indian manufacturing and them- opportunities of employment. If the poor get said a number of steps had already been our beloved PM," Reliance Industries chair- selves. "We do not want any industrialist jobs the purchasing power of families will taken by the Modi government to make it man Mukesh Ambani said. He said the main being forced to leave India," he said. increase." easier to do business in India along with the task before the industry in India was to The prime minister said for him the term Pointing to campaign logo, he said: "This removal or relaxation of foreign equity caps achieve global competitiveness. India to take on twin challenges of fighting poverty, climate change: Javadekar United Nations: With a slogan of “Development without destruction”, India's message to the Javadekar taking cues from the PM UN Climate Change Summit is that it will take on By Ashok Ojha Javadekar narrated his own experiences of The minister pointed out that his govern- the twin chal- team building in the Modi cabinet. “When I ment was keen to turn India into a manufac- lenges of fighting Edison, NJ: Prakash Javadekar, who holds took over the Ministry of I&B, I found that turing hub. “We can become a force in the poverty and cli- twin portfolios in the Modi government, senior officers were wasting time criticizing world economy”, he said pointing out that mate change. environment and Information & each other. I started holding ‘Chai pe char- Modi’s slogan ‘Make in India’ was bound to India will have Broadcasting, has highlighted the ‘good cha’ every morning at 9 am. This practice transform the industrial face of India. Will to increase its governance’ as promoted by the Prime has produced good results. Modi government ban beef production in energy consump- Minister Narendra Modi. Addressing a pub- Today most officers demonstrate produc- India? Javadekar chose not to address the tion if it is to sig- lic meeting held here, on Sept 22, said that tive results in their respective areas.” He question directly as he wondered if meat nificantly the Modi government has infused a new also expressed satisfaction over the news production was a major cause of pollution in improve the lives spirit of work culture among government coverage of BJP’s recent election campaign. India. India is listed among the world's top of its people, but it will try to achieve that officials. “The UPA government was inac- “Our public meetings received wide cover- beef exporters, second only to Brazil. Modi, goal while also reducing carbon emissions, tive and mostly indulged in delaying tactics. age in the media”, he said adding that major during his election campaign, had supported Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar told Now this trend has changed”, he pointed news channels from India have already land- banning beef trade OFBJP organized the the summit Tuesday. out. ed in NYC to cover Modi’s visit. meeting at Royal Albert’s Palace. He pointed out that in countries that have achieved a human development index (HDI) India’s HDI increases from the current value tary goal for reducing emission intensity of its Obama, who spoke earlier in the day, of 0.9 or higher, the per capita energy con- of 0.5 to a value of 0.9,” he said. “The key GDP by 20-25 percent by 2020 over 2005 acknowledged that the US had contributed to sumption was at least 2.5 tonnes oil equiva- challenge therefore is to enable this higher level”. “Our prime minister has announced an the climate crisis. He said the US was now lent per year, while India's is only a quarter of energy consumption at a cost that people are ambitious program of 'Make in India' with committed to "helping more nations skip past that. “With today’s technologies and living willing and able to pay, and with lower carbon 'Zero Defect and Zero Effect'. Our slogan the dirty phase of development, using current standards, the energy consumption in India intensity.” But he gave the assurance that “we therefore is 'Development without technologies, not duplicating the same mis- would need to increase by four times as are fully committed to achieving our volun- Destruction'," he added. US President Barack takes and environmental degradation that took

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nouncement that the Constitution of Japan that India will greet Japanese By Vibhuti Jha How Modi won the hearts and minds India is his religion instilled a belief investment and investors with red Executive Director, Nalanda that for once, one could be proud of carpet instead of the rabidity of red International being an Indian first! tape is by itself a revolutionary cul- he 2014 elections in India gal- of people of India Indian elections, thus, became a tural shift that India needs desperate- vanized the country and its grand spectacle for the world to see ly if we are to achieve economic Tpeople like never before as it how a peaceful transition of power is growth and opportunity for the mil- handed over the reins of the country possible and why democracy and lions of youth in the country. for the next five years to Narendra democratic principles of governance India and USA are the two most Modi led BJP with a clear majority in are key to world peace. His accom- prominent democracies of the world. the parliament. Even the most opti- plishments in Gujarat is a testimony It is essential for the people and the mistic of the Congress party veterans to the story of “Economic growth governments of both the nations to felt that their massacre was worse and Governance” being a clear possi- establish paths for a serious and sin- than feared! How did that happen? bility even in the chaos of democra- cere strategic partnership shorn of While many scholars will earn cy! In the last four months of his hyperboles. Both economies need to their doctoral thesis analyzing the governance he has already sowed the grow and have a clear opportunity to whole gamut of the outcome, let us seeds of change – the blossoming collaborate and cooperate, including focus here on only a few key aspects its establishments. “Good days are coming” became a needs time and for that people of against the humanitarian disaster of of Mr. Modi’s triumph. To begin Modi did precisely that. His per- real possibility. When he promised India need to give success a chance terrorism. Both countries must recog- with, Modi transformed the MOOD formance as the Chief Minister of growth and good governance, people by being patient , trusting and for nize that political expediency can’t of the nation. The mood of despon- Gujarat had been well debated and believed in him. The consequence things to unfold. Two clear examples be allowed to hamper what must be dency, defeatism, negativity, cyni- documented, for people to know, to was the massive win. are, one, the declaration of “Cleaning done in this regard. cism, distrust, feeling of failure and have made Gujarat a prosperous state Modi is a man of action, a true Varanasi” – the holy place for While the US is the melting pot of the fact that India and Indians had in every sense of the term. During “karma yogi” for whom what he Hindus. This declaration of intent is all religions and cultures of the become a synonym of corruption had his rule in Gujarat, performance mat- promised is not important but what important challenge for people’s world, India is that country which disillusioned Indians during the high- tered. Responsibility and accounta- he will do became the mool mantra involvement at grassroot levels and practices the culture of ‘sanatan dhar- way robbery indulged in by the UPA bility became the key words of gov- of success. In the process, a yoga and the direction needed from the ma” and the principles of “vasudhaiv government and its coalition part- ernance. In the run up to the 2014 meditation practitioner that he is, he Government. He also implored upon kutumbakam”! Both the countries ners. People of India wanted an election, he transformed the MOOD instilled a sense of pride in millions the Indian corporate sector to step in must find common ground and not authentic leader who could change of the people to fulfilling ambitions, of Hindus who began to be identify and step up with their efforts in this allow political shallowness to disrupt the corrupt image of the country and hope, trust, success and victory. themselves with him. His proud pro- regard. Secondly, the declaration in a great opportunity.

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days of Modi government A Report Card Modi tones up governance, ends policy paralysis

With 'minimum agricultural productivity and government, maximum spreading e-governance through the Digital India program. governance' as one of his With "Sab ka Saath, Sab ka mantras, the prime Vikas (Support of all, develop- minister has sought to ment for all)" the pronounced make government development philosophy of his systems citizen-friendly government, Modi has sought to and accountable. send out a message of inclusive- ness. By Prashant Sood Former cabinet secretary Prabhat Kumar said: "Three months is a arendra Modi has sought short time to make an assessment, to mark his first term as but in terms of delivery of servic- Nprime minister with some es, I think it has done what no pre- distinct initiatives in terms of both vious government had done. Modi policy and governance style - made it clear that civil services direct communication with the must behave. He also put confi- people, faster decision-making, a dence in them, telling them to do disciplined bureaucracy, thrust on their job without fear and favor. innovation and technology, clean- He has quickened the pace of deci- Feel good effect there, time for action now liness, rural transformation and sion-making by reducing layers." kindling a can-do spirit in the peo- He said Modi had made his hile the Narendra Modi-led government ple. In the three months in office, intentions clear in terms of policy has given people a good feeling in general Modi has already laid down con- by laying emphasis on sanitation Wabout the state of the nation, the govern- tours of his government's priori- and the need to boost rural and ment needs to show more concrete action, appoint a ties. Modi, who began his innings urban infrastructure. "He has separate defense minister to address pressing security on a high note after leading the reviewed the performance of min- concerns as well as assuage growing concerns of BJP to its first full majority in the istries and the directions he has minorities, experts have said. In a discussion on the Lok Sabha, has sought to sustain given are very positive," said "100 days of Modi Sarkar" at the India International the tempo of his victory and meet Prabhat Kumar, who was cabinet Centre in New Delhi, analysts and domain experts the enormous expectations of him. secretary during 1998-2000. said the new government has brought a "sense of He has been reaching out to the Kumar said the Modi-led NDA definitiveness" to the office of prime minister. government should make a "rigor- "There was a consensus at the discussion that this people through social media and In 100 days in office, Narendra Modi has ous review" of the previous gov- government has brought a sense of definitiveness and speeches and has sent a clear mes- already laid down contours of determination to the office of prime minister," said C sage that he will be personally ernment's programs, including the his government's priorities. driving governance. rural employment guarantee Uday Bhaskar, strategic expert and director of Modi laid a thrust on cleanliness scheme and the rural health mis- Society for Policy Studies (SPS) that organized the Vivekananda International Foundation, said while the right at the start of his term in sion. roundtable discussion. government has done remarkably well in the field of office and soon central govern- At the same time, he felt that the "Though 100 days is a short time for any major foreign policy, in prioritizing its relations with Asian ment offices began presenting a government's move to replace the change, there is a change in perception that this gov- nations and balancing it with the Western world, neater look. He emphasized on Planning Commission had been ernment has brought," Bhaskar said. there was an urgent need for a full time defense min- punctuality and established a announced in a hurry and the Mohan Guruswamy, policy expert and ister. "The government has given a clear indication direct dialogue with the top eche- homework for an alternative Distinguished Fellow at the Observer Research that South Asia would be the priority, and it has been lons of the bureaucracy. mechanism was only now being Foundation, said there was a general "good feeling very skilfully combined with developing relations Modi has also sought to energize done. about this government. We have a colorful prime with the great powers," said Shukla. Seshadri Chari, the people and "awaken the Former cabinet secretary T.S.R. minister... We have had enough philosophers and we secretary general, Forum for Integrated National power" of a laggard civil service Subramaniam said that Modi had need a warrior, that is what he is." Prabhat Shukla, Security, said there is a "perceptible change" since down to its lowest level to ensure inherited issues from the past and former ambassador and a Distinguished Fellow with the new government has come. efficiency and time-bound deliv- was not starting from a scratch. ery of services. With "minimum "His head is in the right place. (clean India) by 2019 and a "pucca to powerfully reinforce his ideas states and the Center working as a government, maximum gover- His heart is also in the right (permanent) house" for every fam- of governance and policy. team, hooting of some opposition nance" as one of his mantras, place," Subramaniam said, adding ily by 2022. He has eschewed big-ticket chief ministers in his presence at Modi has sought to make govern- Modi has "galvanized the bureau- Work has also started on Modi's announcements and focused on government events has created ment systems citizen-friendly and cracy in Delhi". other ideas including a golden issues of everyday concern which some suspicions and acrimony. accountable and has initiated "In 100 days, I am seeing much quadrilateral, bullet trains and have won him accolades and Modi has also spawned a change action to eliminate obsolete laws. more than expected. The design is solid waste management in 500 silenced some of his bitter critics. in the way the government inter- The Modi government has also very much there. The foundation urban centers across India through He has sought to end poverty acts with the media, with officials sought to bring about convergence is being laid. In the next 100 days, the public-private-partnership through initiatives aimed at cagey about talking to journalists. among ministries for focused the ground floor will take shape," (PPP) model. empowerment rather than encour- He has stopped taking mediaper- delivery. said Subramaniam, who was cabi- A forceful speaker and arguably aging doles. Modi's emphasis on sons from newspapers and TV Carrying forward some of his net secretary during 1996-98. the best communicator in India's women empowerment and their news channels on his visits abroad initiatives as the Gujarat chief Various ministries have got present political leadership, Modi safety has won him accolades. and has instead encouraged a cul- minister, Modi has drawn up plans going about goals announced by has used big occasions such as his While Modi has laid thrust on ture where information comes for rural transformation, boosting Modi including "Swachch Bharat" Aug 15 Independence Day address cooperative federalism with the through releases and tweets.

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days of Modi government For India Inc, confidence is here to stay

There are signs as well of beginning of the year, today speak overall revival. The about revival and higher growth industry is particularly trajectory for the economy. Similarly, foreign funds, which pleased with the initiatives were hesitant onlookers at the on infrastructure and the investment opportunities in Indian promise of making the stocks till April, are back in busi- environment business- ness as net buyers. This sudden friendly. surge has already seen these funds investing $26 billion this year. If By Arvind Padmanabhan this pace continues, 2014-15 could well turn out to be a record year for he overall sentiment of India inward foreign fund investments Inc today is one of optimism, with $50 billion. Narendra Modi with Chinese Premier Xi Jinping at a meeting in New Delhi. 2014-15 could well Tas the reversal of a percep- "Investor sentiment is back as the turn out to be a record year for inward foreign fund investments with $50 billion. tion of policy inaction with several new government has demonstrated meaningful steps on economic high commitment to growth and towards hiring. ture apart from high-speed trains desires to grow” and nurtures the reforms have made the climate con- reforms," Ajay Shriram, president Industry is particularly pleased include the creation of 100 smart, ambition of emerging as a global ducive for fresh investments and of the Confederation of Indian with the initiatives on infrastructure inter-linked cities, a roadmap for superpower. growth. Industry, said. "During our interac- and the promise of making the public-private partnership in a host Modi’s vision for the re-imagina- These 100 days, although a short tions with ministers and officials, environment business-friendly. of areas like ports, roads and high- tion of India is bejeweled with a span of time, has seen some brisk we have found strong willingness With most top industrialists having ways and housing for all. Diamond Quadrilateral of bullet action in areas such as hiking for- to consider the industry's views and dealt with the Gujarat government There are signs as well of overall trains connecting the four metros; a eign equity caps in defense and take up out-of-the-box solutions," when Modi was chief minister, they revival. Growth in factory output is Sagar Mala project connecting insurance, which are clear signals Shriram said, adding: "We are con- know he means business. scaling up, core industries like elec- India’s coastal cities with the main- of a return of the liberalization era fident that the pace of reforms "Modi has a track record of being tricity, cement, steel and coal are land; 100 new smart cities; and the that was started in 1991 but per- would continue in coming months." a doer. What he's done in Gujarat is seeing a pick up in demand, the revival of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s ceivably lost steam in recent years. The various business confidence for everyone to see. He has a huge service sector is seeing new recruit- ambitious river-linking project. The stock markets also gave a surveys conducted by independent task nevertheless in turning around ments, exports have seen the Modi intends to fuel his massive thumbs up to the policy initiatives, agencies also suggest a revival in the economy to growth-oriented, sharpest rise in six months and infrastructure drive through foreign with two key indices touching all- sentiments. Their broad findings rather than control-oriented one," there is a resolve to cut deficit. investment and public private part- time highs, even as rating agencies are: a definite pick-up seen in said Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus Modi would settle for nothing nerships, with half the $1 trillion that were on the brink of downgrad- demand, the return of new invest- of Tata Sons. Examples of the gov- less than being the architect of a required expected to come from the ing India's sovereign ratings at the ment decisions and a definite move ernment's initiatives in infrastruc- new India that “unhesitatingly private sector. Neighborhood back in focus

By Ranjana Narayan minister's outreach to neighbors port. and interaction with major powers, His next visit was also to an eticulous to a fault, the the sudden cancellation of talks important neighbor - Nepal. This Japanese do not like sud- with Pakistan that highlighted the was the first bilateral visit to Nepal Mden changes in pro- government's muscular approach by an Indian prime minister in 17 grams. Yet, when Prime Minister has come in for criticism from sev- years. During his visit, which was Narendra Modi announced a eral quarters. termed historic, Modi assured change in his itinerary in Japan, Modi's invite to India's neigh- Nepal that India did not want to arriving a day early to travel to the bors, especially Nawaz Sharif, for interfere in its internal affairs. He heritage temple city of Kyoto, they his May 26 swearing-in was hailed also promised a $1 billion line of were delighted. by all as a diplomatic master- credit and greater investment in With that one stroke, Modi stroke. His short bilateral talks Nepal's hydropower sector. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his Japanese counterpart showed his desire to lift bilateral with the eight neighbors, including His visit helped counter-balance Shinzo Abe during a tea ceremony. relations with Japan from a trans- Mauritius, on the sidelines came in China's increasing presence in the actional one to something more for praise. Himalayan country that shares a first time meetings with the heads nations charted a new chapter in holistic. While people were still guessing long border with Tibet. In fact, of BRICS countries - Brazil, economic ties with Beijing In 100 days at the helm of the which country Modi would make China's official media came out Russia, China and South Africa, as announcing $20 billion investment Union government, Modi has his first stop, thinking it would with a comment on the visit, say- well as Latin American nations. over the next five years.A close introduced a leitmotif, bringing most likely be Japan, the prime ing Modi was "smart" for his The mega diplomatic meeting look will show that the Modi gov- style to the substance of foreign minister again played a master- attempts to reset India-Nepal ties with China came in the third week ernment is sticking to its promise policy. stroke by deciding to visit Bhutan. but it termed his $1 billion soft of September, with Chinese in the manifesto where it clearly The foreign policy inbox of This and the promise of greater loan as not enough to bring about a President Xi Jinping visiting India. said that with regard to the neigh- Modi's government has Indeed development cooperation and thaw in bilateral relations. India's concerns over Chinese borhood the party will "pursue been full right from the day of his investment reassured Bhutan, In between, the prime minister troops' incursions remained at the friendly relations. However, where swearing in. While the accolades which also shares border with visited Brazil in July, his first mul- forefront of talks between Modi required we will not hesitate from have poured in for the prime China, of India's continued sup- tilateral engagement, where he had and President Xi even as the two taking a strong stand and steps".

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VOX POPULI

Four months in power and a long way to go. But Indians are happy to see their chosen leader already walk the talk. They opine on Prime Minister Modi’s leadership style, vision and initiatives taken.

Darshan Dave period we have had ‘chalta hai’ leaders. approach to solve everyday problems of a From the get go, Modi appeared to work Bangalore-based management professional That is changing now. billion people nation is amazing. He walks on his duties. His invitations list for the who returned to India after 8 years in Modi’s vision for India stems from his the talk. Modi carries the credentials of run- oath ceremony, his request to Varanasi peo- the US RSS background and influence of Swami ning Gujarat as a strong leader. Continuing ple for a clean Ganga during ‘Thank you’ Vivekanand to see India as a Jagad Guru the legacy, he is leading from the front. He visit right after winning the elections, his hile 100+ (World Leader). But he does not believe in has shown the courage to take strong deci- firmness to get accountability from his staff days is not empty rhetoric and jingoism. He is aware of sions for the betterment of the nation and are indications of serious and effective Wa period the shortcomings of India as a country, has also brought the trust and vigor back in authority. long enough to Indians as a society. His vision is to make the bureaucrats of the PMO team. As a To bring out results, it’s vital to start from evaluate perform- India self-reliant and make India a country leader, he is frank, humble and blunt. within and have a team that understands ance of the new that exports more than it imports. He would I believe Mr. Modi has a crystal clear and is disciplined enough to take on their government, I like to see more ‘Made in India’ stamps. vision with a stepwise process of what he is responsibilities and Modi has set a great would say This needs skill development and excelling doing to make our nation an economically example leading from the front! With Narendra Modi at anything India undertakes. We have and culturally prosperous country. In his India’s median age at under 30 years, the has scored 9/10. many archaic laws and systems, and poor own words, "If every Indian will take one youth have a major role to play in the There is overall infrastructure unable to keep pace with the step ahead, the nation will take a leap of country’s development for the next few enthusiasm in the modern world. 125 crore steps ahead in progress!" decades and Modi certainly has the economic, social Modi has a vision to bring those at par I admire his working style. He microman- younger blood rooting for him and his and national mood with developed nations. He wants to instill ages every process and keeps real time visionary ideas. This itself is a great and Sensex has cap- pride and confidence in Indian public to updates. He works round the clock, keeps achievement for any country’s ruler. He tured this wonderfully in believe in their capabilities and believe in a his team on their toes, monitors the work inspires people to do what is expected of the last three months with resurgent India. and performance of every minister in a time them. 15 % increase. FIIs are increasing their Modi is a workaholic and taskmaster no frame on regular basis. Modi has already injected fresh stimulus investments, food inflation is coming down, doubt, but he also abhors corruption and His way of working or living life is not to to India's foreign policy, especially in the stalled projects are cleared with speedy has instilled fear in all parts of Executive impress but aims to inspire masses to emu- immediate neighborhood and East Asia. decision making and most importantly gov- not to engage in any quid pro quo. Many late it. I am highly impressed with his ini- His ability to establish a heart to heart rela- ernment and all its parts such as bureau- lobbying shops in Delhi have dried up in tiative of igniting the idea of “Make in tionship with prominent world leaders has crats, ministers and babus have started to last three months as no minister would dare India” to build a strong manufacturing given other nations a fresh and promising work and how! Modi, however, has not to lobby for any private entity. He is pas- industry base. perspective on India’s capability. Even ushered in any big bang reforms that were sionate about his job and works very hard though his official visits to the neighboring expected of him and he is treading cau- for his age. Be it Jan-Dhan Yojana (bank countries were a carryover from the previ- tiously. account and Rs.100,000 insurance for Pushpa Koneri ous regime, Modi’s visits have instilled As far as foreign policy is concerned, everyone) or ‘Swachch Bharat’ (Clean A software engineer based in Virginia, she hope of more harmonious bilateral ties. It India has become much more assertive in India) by 2019. Initiative to provide hous- flew to India this May to cast her vote is rare to see citizens of other countries last 100 days and Modi is leaving no stone ing to all by 2022 or building smart cities excited and honored to have India’s prime unturned with his Asian outreach program. for planned growth, he is leading us in the ourminister visiting them, but Modi’s stature Visits to Bhutan, Nepal, Japan and Chinese right direction. months and sincerity towards his role has made this premier visiting India bringing multi billion Fis a short possible. dollar investment is certainly a success. Zankrut Oza period to Each of Modi’s decision — let it be the The invitation to SAARC leaders to the Mumbai-based Professor, Digital Media evaluate any invitation to SAARC leaders, cancellation PM’s swearing-in was also a clear indica- Consultant, SocialMedia Trainer and office. of talks with Pakistan or refusal to sign the tion of Modi’s priority on establishing Public Speaker However, WTO agreement -- bears his mark. His South Asian supremacy and revive becoming interactions with a score world leaders so SAARC. I believe he can lead India into e prime far show that he believes in summit-style the category of developed nations. can minister, diplomacy to resolve problems. His speech Contrary to the fear of intellectuals and Wsee Narendra at the UN General Assembly will be a key media of Modi being autocratic, he is com- the perform- Modi has indicator of his world view and foreign ing across as a more accommodating leader ance of taken Indian policy plans. as PM. Make no mistake though, he is a Narendra governance to At his Independence Day speech, Modi very strong leader and keeps an eagle eye Modi in two a different spoke like a true executive who has thor- on the performance of his ministers. He has ways, fulfill- level. There will oughly done his homework and knew the habit of doing performance appraisals ing the deep always be gaps and exactly what he is going to do and expects of his team like corporate entities. A wel- deficits in the critics ferociously from his people along with definite time- come change from the past! Being free of governance pointing these gaps out but in the last 100+ lines. coalition compulsions will allow him to made by UPA days the confidence an Indian citizen has His unusual focus on basic issues such as push his economic, social and foreign poli- and bringing new on his country’s government is at an all- sanitation and security is a good indication cy agenda with firmness. For the longest initiatives. His time high! that the country is in safe hands.

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Setting agenda for Modi’s America visit For America, Modi is a dark horse. He is not like any earlier prime minister of India. Modi is a declared nationalist, a proud Hindu, and from how he administered Gujarat, NaMo, an intelligent strategist as well as a bold and confident administrator. Note how he Obama invited heads of India’s neighboring countries to his inauguration, and how he included poor Indians into the banking system. He did in months what would have taken years read each for other administrators in any democracy in the world. Modi is reinventing India. other.

By Prof A.D. Amar other individual who had occupied the prime minister office in India. This is especially true when Modi is iven the strategic importance of US-India re- compared to the outgoing Prime Minister, Manmohan lation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit Singh. Modi is a declared nationalist, a proud Hindu, Gto America is indeed late. Before coming to and from how he had administered Gujarat, a very in- America and meeting President Obama, he has visited telligent strategist and a bold and confident administra- and cut significant deals with Japan’s Prime Minister tor. His characteristics are apparent in how he invited Shinzo Abe, Australia’s Prime Minister Tony Abbott, India’s neighboring countries, the members of SAA- and China’s President Xi Jinping. Further, because of RC, to his inauguration; how he retired the pallbearers how America treated Modi regarding his visa to vis- of his political party, how he included poor Indians into it the USA when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat, the banking system, and how he modified India’s judi- Obama should have arranged for Modi to visit Ameri- cial system. He did in months what would have taken ca sooner. Now, Obama will have to go out of his way years for many other administrators in any democracy to win back Modi’s trust for reviving stronger bilat- in the world. Modi is unconventional and makes bold eral ties with India that have been in slump since 2011 moves. He is reinventing India. Modi’s victory has treatment of Indian diplomat Devyani Khobragade. given absolute control of India’s administration to the For America, Modi is a dark horse. He is not like any nationalists, for the first time in independent India.

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Modi is well aware of the responsibility a bigger hand in India’s economic growth that he has undertaken. And he is working to is occurring now at a much higher rate than in prove that he would be a better administra- the past. While America will like to talk about tor of India than his predecessors. Some of being the preferred partner of India for trade the moves he has made, domestically and and investment, and developing human capi- internationally in the areas of economy tal and infrastructure, Modi and Obama will and foreign affairs, attest to this fact. And, also be talking about the defense cooperation the evidence shows that he is succeeding and co-developing and coproducing technol- in achieving his goal. ogy, defense equipment and weapons. During Modi’s visit to the USA, Amer- More ambitiously, there could be free ica will have to sign agreements and deals trade, and immigration on the agenda. Known that will have to be much larger than Mo- or not, China and Afghanistan somehow will di’s agreements and deals with Australia, also figure on the agenda. While Modi will China, and Japan. Australia has signed a be visiting America only a little more than If you genuinely want to grow your practice, deal to export nuclear material to India, a week after Xi’s visit of India, Obama and AccountantsWorld can help. helping India immensely while also saving he will know how America would be able to its flagging uranium industry that refused respond to some of the economic and border The cloud has created billions of dollars’ worth of opportunities for accountants that most accountants don’t know exist. AccountantsWorld—a pioneer in cloud shipping it to Russia. Japan will invest issues India and China have been handling solutions for accountants—can help you capitalize on these opportunities. more than $35 billion in Indian industry. for a couple decades if not longer. We are hosting a FREE online Cloud Workshop that will give you an overview of China is planning to invest more than $100 One question not many are considering how we make it happen. billion in India and is setting up a number is: “Is Modi not upbeat on his US visit?” of industrial parks in India and an indus- The question arises not only because of the Visit www.AccountantsWorld.com today to sign up for our FREE Cloud Workshop. trial complex in China, closer to the Indian scheduling of this visit so late after his be- border to facilitate trade with India. coming PM, but also because of the history American and Indian trade and defense of his dealings with America. We all hope About AccountantsWorld. deals can potentially take the center stage that this will be the best of the deals and Co-founded by Chandra and Sharada Bhansali, AccountantsWorld is the recognized leader in cloud solutions for accountants. We offer virtually everything you need for during Modi’s visit. Shale gas technology friendships with Australia, China, and Ja- your practice, including cloud solutions for bookkeeping, write-up, trial balance, could be one of the top items on Obama- pan. Nevertheless, the fear is that if indeed payroll, document management, client portals, practice management, website creation, after-the-fact payroll, and more. Modi agenda. Energy-starved India needs it turns out to be as questioned, i.e., more a technology to mine shale gas that America ceremony and less substance, that would be has perfected. The synergy would benefit a very great opportunity missed, probably

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US red carpet for Indian PMs A thriving democracy and rising world power, India has progressively become more and more important strategic and trade partner for America. Indian prime ministers from Jawaharlal Nehru onward have been welcomed to the White House and have addressed the United Nations.

1956: Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru greeted by 1971: India’s first woman Prime Minister, Mrs US President Dwight David Eisenhower in the White Indira Gandhi meeting US President Richard M. House in Washington, D.C. on December 1, 1956. Nixon in White House on November 4, 1971. Optics aside, there were famously bad vibes between the two. Nixon referred to her as a ‘witch’ and ‘clever fox’ in his communications with the Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger. A month later on the orders of Mrs Gandhi Indian forces 1985: President Ronald Reagan and First Lady made a decisive push towards then East Pakistan Nancy Reagan hosted a dinner for the visiting that was soon to be recognized as Bangladesh. Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi at the White House on June 12,1985.

1961: President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jack- ie Kennedy greet Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his daughter Mrs. Indira Gandhi in Washington, DC in 1961. This was Nehru’s third trip to the US as PM.

1978: Prime Minister Morarji Desai holds Press Conference at the UN Conference Room in New York, June 1978.

1992: Prime Minister Narasimha Rao holds Secu- rity Council meetings at the UN in January 1992.

1982: President Reagan walking with Prime 1997: Prime Minister I.K. Gujral with U.S. 1965: Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri arriving at Minister Indira Gandhi of India outside the oval President Bill Clinton at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel the UN General Assembly in New York in June 1965. office in the White House on July 29, 1982. in Manhattan on September 22, 1997.

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US red carpet for Indian PMs

2009: President Barack Obama and First Lady 2005: President George W. Bush and Laura Bush Michelle Obama held the first official State Dinner 2003: Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and welcome India Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh of his Presidency in honor of Indian Prime Minister President George W. Bush shaking hands at a meeting and Mrs. Gursharan Kaur as they arrive for the Dr. Manmohan Singh and his wife, Mrs. Gursharan in NewYork on September 24, 2003. official dinner at the White House, July 18, 2005. Kaur, at the White House on November 24, 2009. TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 48

Although Prime Minister Narendra Modi is yet to provide a prologue or officially recognise a book describing his political journey and personal life, his rise and popularity have provided literary fodder to many authors to write on his “charismatic” personality. A sneak peak.

By SAT Team Books written by Modi he meteoric rise of the 64-year-old Narendra Modi up the political ladder Jyotipunj : 'Jyotipunj' gives a description Tis an incredible story after a humble of all the people who Narendra Modi beginning as a six-year-old tea vendor to believes inspired him and had a strong becoming the prime minister of the world's influence on his work. biggest democracy. A wider spectrum of infor- Abode of Love : ‘Abode of Love’ is a mation available on his illustrious past has compendium of eight short stories written whetted the appetite for stories on Narendra by Narendra Modi. It was written by Modi Modi. Today, there is no dearth of books on at a young age. These stories reveal the the Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi. Top sensitive and affectional, aspect of his on the list is journalist-author Kingshuk Nag's character. “The NaMO Story: A Political Life”. Premtirth: Premtirth is an assemblage of “There is a lot of interest in Narendra Modi short stories written by Narendrabhai among the people and hence there is a demand Modi. In this book, he gives an a soulful to know more about the man,” says Nag, who portrayal of motherly feelings in a very was posted in Gujarat and has reported on the simple and impressive language. Author-journalists Kingshuk Nag's “The NaMO Story: A Political Life” riots. Kelve Te Kelavani : ‘Kelave te Kelavani’ and Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay's "Narendra Modi: The Man. The Times" are During this stint, he had met and interacted means ‘education is that which nurtures’. among the top favorites books. with Modi on several occasions. Another The book brings forth his thoughts and his meticulous account on Modi comes from vet- vision to bring about a knowledge revolu- eran journalist Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay in his tion in Gujarat. It shows his love for edu- book "Narendra Modi: The Man. The Times". Books on Narendra Modi cation. The Delhi-based writer interviewed Modi on Sakshibhav : 'Sakshibhav' consists of a several occasions for this book and got a The NaMo Story: A Political Life series of letters addressed to Jagat Janani 'The NaMo Story: A Political Life' by Kingshuk Nag gives a brilliant portrayal of an excep- chance to meet him up-close and in person. Maa. It describes the journey of inner-self tional politician, Narendra Modi, depicting his journey from a tea vendor's son to the Chief “Narendra Modi is an extremely charismatic of Narendra Modi and his feelings. Minister of Gujarat. The book begins with a short history of the political situation and person and is warm and effusive. I still Samajik Samarsata : ‘Samajik reforms of the 1990s. remember when I had met him for the first Samarasata’ is a compilation of Narendra time, he had got up from his chair and shook Narendra Modi- A Political Biography Modi's articles and lectures. The book 'Narendra Modi- A Political Biography' by Andy Marino attempts to give the honest picture hands with me. His connection with the people reflects Modi's views of social inclusive- of Narendra Modi, the man and his politics. It enables the readers to get a better under- is tremendous and he is seen as a role model,” ness. Mukhopadhyay points out. standing of Modi's ways of governance. Convenient Action : Gujarat's "One can't deny the fact that he is a great Centrestage: Inside the Narendra Modi Model of Governance Response to Challenges of Climate Uday Mahurkar’s ‘Centrestage: Inside the Narendra Modi Model of Governance’ gives a communicator. When he was a child, he had Change : 'Convenient Action: Gujarat’s balanced and impersonal judgement of Modi’s mantra of governance. Mahurkar not only done theater and he uses the theater to sell pol- Response to Challenges of Climate talks about Modi's visionary schemes but also talks about issues on which Modi could have itics. Even the way he carries himself makes Change' is Modi's first book in English. paid more attention and performed better. him stand out from the crowd," he adds, say- The book talks about the changes of cli- ing Modi has borrowed his half-sleeved knee- Modi: Making of a Prime Minister: Leadership, Governance and Performance mate in the state of Gujarat and how the The book by Vivian Fernandes is a peak into the political scenario of Gujarat and the way length kurta style from yesteryears' people of the state responds to it. Bollywood superstar Rajesh Khanna. of Modi's governance from a viewpoint of a liberal Indian. Writers in various languages - English, The Man of the Moment - Narendra Modi “My small book in Hindi 'Modi Aur Maien' 'The Man of the Moment: Narendra Modi' authored by M V Kamath and Kalindi Randeri Hindi, Marathi, Tamil and Gujarati - have tried is based on my perception of the man, who is uncovers the life and the development of a perfect politician who has expanded the bound- to decode the man and his political sojourn. manned by several security personnel. I have aries of politics in India. There are books like "Narendra Modi: A never seen a leader working so hard. We could Political Biography", "The Man of the Narendra Modi: The Gamechanger make out that he works for 18-20 hours a day," Sudesh Verma's 'Narendra Modi -The Gamechanger' shows Narendra Modi as a Moment: Narendra Modi", "Narendra Modi: said Prabir Mahanty, who recently took volun- gamechanger, one who knows how to affect people with his work and turn the tables on his Yes He Can", "Narendra Modi: The Game tary retirement from country's elite anti-terror opponents. The book is based on all-inclusive interviews of Modi and his close associates. Changer", "ModiNomics", "Narendra Modi: force. Mohanty, who was second-in-command Ek Rajneetik Katha"(Hindi), "Samajik of the NSG guards deployed for Modi's securi- Samrasta"(Hindi), "Modinama"(Marathi) and prime ministerial candidate. The book was this year. The book - "Narendra Modi: a ty in Ahmedabad, recalls in his book how the "Narendra Modi" (Tamil), among many oth- released in 2013. Charismatic and Visionary Statesman" - has CM once traveled down to a writer's house to ers. Not just this, if one goes to Modi's web- "The book had evoked great curiosity as we been authored jointly by Adish C Aggarwal release a book since the author did not have site, many e-books like "Convenient Action" were the first amongst several others to have a and Sarah J Marchington. enough finance to host an event or even to call have been written by him and a few like book on him. It has now gone into a reprint To be released on November 15, the book is media persons. "Narkesri-Narendra Modi", a Gujarati transla- and with elections around the corner, the being published by UK Publishers and This isn't the end. The Modi clout is just tion of a Kannada book penned by a young demand is bound to increase manifold," she Distributors Ltd, London. Not just prominent growing bigger. writer. According to Westland publications added. Nag's book too has been well received. faces, the new to one join the race is a former Wait for more books on the man in near managing editor Sudha Sadanand, A book chronicling Prime Minister Narendra assistant commandant with National Security future who has taken the world by storm right Mukhopadhyay's book had done extremely Modi's rise in politics as well as other aspects Guard (NSG), who guarded the Gujarat chief from the day he became India's 14th Prime well even when Modi was not declared a of his life will hit book stores in November minister for fine months in 2006 and 2007. Minister. 49

Although the BJP asserts that the party's reversal of fortunes in the assembly by-elections in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat should not be construed as an indication of the party losing ground, the results do ask for a new strategy at the ground level that looks beyond Narendra Modi's popularity.

Deviating from the 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' (With all, for all) coupled with the absence of senior leaders during By SAT Team ground work for Haryana and Pradesh that hinged on communal Maharashtra where assembly and Hindutva agenda. campaigning adversely affected BJP's uphoria can't be a substi- polls are scheduled for October, A senior MP said the prime performance in the by-polls in 10 states. tute for ground level the leaders point out that big minister looked the other way as Eorganization. Votes have to names were conspicuous by their he wanted to settle "once and for "The landslide in the Lok Sabha polls be earned through development, absence in the UP campaign. all" the issue of whether develop- not by ramping up political rheto- This, they said, made an ment politics or the communal was due to the charisma of Narendra ric. This in a way is the short mes- impression that after romping agenda was more acceptable to Modi, there is no doubt about it now," sage from the by-election results home to power in the central gov- the people. in 10 states - a warning bell to the ernment, they were no longer "The landslide in the Lok Sabha said a senior party functionary. saffron unit before the critical test interested in Uttar Pradesh. polls was due to the charisma of in Maharashtra and Haryana. "While this was not the reality, Narendra Modi, there is no doubt Pradesh where it won only three chief minister Mayawati's and his Union minister Kalraj Mishra, the perception carried through about it now," said another senior of the 11 assembly seats that went Bahujan Samajwadi Party's stran- however, asserted by-poll results and was lapped up by the party functionary. to the polls. glehold on her voter base is dwin- should not be taken as a sample Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders Vijay Bahadur Pathak, state "Obviously we have lost a few dling. Having drawn a blank in because the dynamics are differ- who picked on absence of big spokesperson for the BJP and an seats but that doesn't mean we the Lok Sabha polls and, of late, ent from the Lok Sabha elections. BJP leaders as a show of disre- outspoken critic of the Akhilesh have lost ground. There might be giving a walkover to her oppo- “By-polls are fought on state spect to the mandate people gave Yadav government, while admit- reasons for our defeat, but our nents by not contesting the assem- issues where state leaders matter,” to Modi," pointed out a leader. ting that the results were a "blow grasp at grassroots is still strong bly bypolls or the Mainpuri Lok he added. The absence of major faces in to party's plans of expanding fur- and we will certainly bounce Sabha seat, the Dalit diva has While maintaining a brave front the campaign and state BJP presi- ther", said that they took the poll back. This is not a matter of con- been pushed to the sidelines of on television channels and public dent Laxmikant Bajpayi merrily results "very seriously" and that a cern for us," said Mishra. politics in a state where she held platforms, senior leaders candidly playing along issues like "love course correction will follow. Mishra, the union minister for center stage not long ago. admit now that deviating from the jihad" and "shuddikaran" (purifi- That seems to be the only sensible Micro Small and Medium While the BSP failed to hold on 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' (With cation) of those embracing Islam, and workable way, party leaders Enterprises (MSME), also refused to its decade-old captive vote all, for all) and embracing the left the party cadre confused and feel. The BJP's ally Shiv Sena to admit that the 'love jihad' theo- bank of Dalits during the Lok communally laced tempo of a irked at the complacency of its described the by-poll results as ry was an issue raised by his party Sabha polls, where her party man- Yogi, Mahant Adityanath, proved top brass. “unexpected shock and surprise”. during the UP by-poll. aged a duck despite fielding can- to be their undoing! Insiders in hushed tones also "We have won a seat in Bengal, "It was not an issue which we didates on all 80 seats, non-partic- The credo of Prime Minister point out that the BJP top brass does that mean (Chief Minister) raised...rather it's some people ipation in the assembly by-polls, Narendra Modi reaped huge elec- "deliberately overlooked" Mamata Banerjee has lost? The who ostensibly made it to be our many feel, has only added to toral dividends for the BJP not attempts by the RSS and hardlin- dynamics are different and it is issue," added Mishra. Mayawati's alienation from her long ago in the Lok Sabha elec- ers within the party to run amok wrong to assess that the BJP has "Love jihad" is a term used by vote bank which would have ide- tions, garnering 71 of the 80 seats with their hate speeches and com- lost popularity just on the basis of Hindu hardliners for Muslim ally liked 'behen-ji's' participation from Uttar Pradesh. munal agenda. these results," added Mishra. youth marrying Hindu girls with in the electoral exercise. For the Pointing out that the national This, the senior BJP leader said, Claiming that its hold at the the intention of converting them BJP, now that the “Modi wave” leadership had by and large was largely because the Sangh grassroots level was still strong, to Islam. has slowed down, the party needs shown no interest in the state's wanted to "test waters" on the Mishra asserted that the party will When we look deep, we actual- to get back to the drawing board bypolls as it was busy with party's winnability in Uttar bounce back, including in Uttar ly find that former Uttar Pradesh and start planning rationally. 50 Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 TRISTATE COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Maharashtra Tourism celebrates ‘Diwali At Times Square’

New York, NY: Maharashtra Tourism presented ‘Diwali At Times Square’ extravaganza on Saturday here. The festival began with a Ganpathi procession with Dhol Tasha led by Maharashtra Tourism, prominent dignitaries such as Consul General of India, Mr. Dnyaneshwar Mulay, Congressman Joseph Crowley and Councilman Paul Vallone, Neeta Bhasin, CEO of Event Guru, and plus visiting dignitaries from India. Apart from the busy Diwali Bazaar, thrilling traditional Maharashtra acrobatic performers Dignitaries participated with gusto in the celebration, and (right) Traditional Maharashtra acrobatic performers were invited to display the first showcase ‘Malkhamb’ female Dahi Handi and Malkhamb. The main stage had their new film, 'Daawat-e-Ishq' Brown, Mickey Singh, DJ Baba ing dance numbers and Fargo’s team of photographers traditional performances by local made a special appearance at the Kahn, Arjun, famous choreogra- Bollywood glamor. throughout the day. The full on dance troupes. concert that featured performanc- pher Marzi and other artists. The NASDAQ screen was used concert was kicked off with the Indian actors Aditya Roy Kapur es by singer Shaan, Shalmali, They enthralled the audience to display the Diwali smiles of the interactive diya lighting on the and Parineeti Chopra, promoting Aditya and Pankhudi, Sunny with their melodious voices, excit- festival goers taken by Wells Thomson Reuters Screen at 6pm. Indian-American body calls for UNSC reform Washington,DC: Asserting that India has an "irre- nomic potential, civilization legacy, cultural diversity, placeable economic and political role" at the global political system, population and past and ongoing stage, an Indian-American body has called for an contributions to the activities of the UN, India is emi- immediate reform of the UNSC to make the country nently qualified for permanent membership," he said. its permanent member. The American India Public Sewhani said "it is really illogical that country like Affairs Committee (AIPAC) said in a statement: "It is India who have irreplaceable economic and political about time that India is included as one of the perma- role is still not permanent member of (the) Security nent members." "First in the debates over the Council". He said the UNSC has faced "international Councils reform, India represents developing coun- pressure for substantial reforms since 1991", but still tries' perspective, and it is supported by wide majori- Asia is under-represented while Europe is over-repre- ty of them and several African countries," said sented. "It (the UNSC) also lacks representation from Jagdish Sewhani of the AIPAC. "Second by any developing countries, which make more than half the Friends of Action Research in Community Health & Development objective criteria, such as territorial size, GDP, eco- world," Sewhani said. (ARCH) -- a non-profit helping out the needy in eastern tribal belt of Gujarat-- celebrated its 20th Annual event in New York with over 400 donors and 100+ young professionals. Hollywood star Plea for non violence towards all living beings at UN Kal Penn Modi, a longtime ARCH supporter, attended. United Nations: The UN International Day of Peace global leaders and children. The highlight of the obser- celebrations heard an appeal from the International vances was the annual ringing of the Peace Bell by UN Congressmen Joseph Crowley Mahavira Jain Mission for nonviolence towards all liv- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. As a part of the 33- named Gurdip Singh Narula ing beings as a way of promoting world peace. year bell ringing tradition, he called on combatants to as first Sikh District Leader-at- Neil Parikh, a 21-year-old student from New Jersey, lay down their arms. About 500 high school and uni- Large at the Democratic representing the organization, said, "When people think versity students participated in the celebrations and in Organization of Queen County about world peace it is all about humans. But we have the sessions on, the Peace Day theme, "Right of Of New York meeting held in to develop an attitude of nonviolence towards animals Peoples to Peace," at which Parikh spoke. With the Elmhurst, NY, also. This will be the way to promote harmony and upcoming UN Climate Change Summit in mind, he recently. world peace through nonviolence." The International linked nonviolence as a principle to environment pro- Day of Peace celebrations Friday featured celebrities, tection, which is integral to world peace. Over $2 m raised for Pratham at MoMA Gala New York: The New York recent election and his hope for awareness outside the event, this Chapter of Pratham USA wel- India’s ability to instigate change. year’s gala also highlighted comed more than 600 guests to its Asia Society President and CEO #WHYPRATHAM, a social media annual gala held on September 18 Josette Sheeran also gave remarks, campaign encouraging attendees at The Museum of Modern Art. congratulating Pratham CEO and to share messages about their per- Prominent Indian Americans, phi- Co-Founder Dr. Madhav Chavan sonal connection to the organiza- lanthropists, corporate executive on his recent Asia Game Changer tion. "We are immensely grateful and Wall Street elite turned up for Award for "bringing the gift of lit- to our sponsors, supporters and this year’s festivities. The evening eracy to millions of Indians." volunteers for the tremendous suc- raised over $2 million for Gala guests, including Manish cess of this year’s gala," said Pratham’s programs to educate Dayal from the celebrated film Deepak Raj, President of the New underprivileged children and "The Hundred-Foot Journey," and York Tri-State Chapter. "The funds youth in India. Ali Velshi, host of "Real Money we raised reflect our community’s Washington Post journalist, with Ali Velshi," who served as the commitment to widening access to CNN host and New York Times night’s emcee. Attendees were education in India and our belief best-selling author Fareed Zakaria also treated to private gallery tours in Pratham’s unique vision and delivered the night’s keynote of The Museum of Modern Art’s ability to enact change. We hope Co-founder Dr Madhav Chavan (center) with Pratham address and spoke on India’s exquisite collection. To raise we can raise even more next year." members and supporters TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 52 Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 INDIA NEWS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

BJP-Shiv Sena alliance over, NCP leaves Congress

Mumbai: In a day of fast political developments, Maharashtra's two main alliances - the BJP-Shiv Sena and the Congress-NCP - broke up over differences in seat sharing, setting the stage for multi-cornered contests in the Oct 15 assembly elections. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) called off its 15-year-old alliance with the Congress in the state, hours after the Bharatiya Janata Party snapped off its 25- year-old tie with Shiv Sena. The NCP also quit the Congress-led Democratic Front government, reducing it to a minority in the 288-member assembly and rais- TIME UP: Narendra Modi with Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad pawar with Sonia Gandhi ing the possibility of the state coming under central rule - barely support from "like-minded secular experts are not clear whether as both the junior alliance partners understanding between BJP and three weeks before the poll. parties". Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan - the NCP and BJP - deciding to (Sharad Pawar-led) NCP and The BJP has now decided to "We have decided to chart our will continue as a caretaker or break free from the bigger parties super-arrogance". contest the elections with the sup- independent path along with some president's rule will be imposed in - Congress and Shiv Sena - and However, both the "newly- port of at least three other smaller secular-minded parties," state the state. attempt to grab power or become divorced" alliances are keeping parties which were part of the NCP president Sunil Tatkare told The unprecedented development powerful on their own strengths. options open - the BJP saying that erstwhile 'Grand Alliance'. the media. - when both ruling and opposition Top BJP leaders directly friendship with Sena will continue Barely an hour later, the NCP The NCP also decided to with- alliance collapsed within an hour accused Sena leadership of being forever, and the NCP hoping that also broke its ties with Congress draw from the government. of each other - has thrown open not interested "in anything else the next government will also be and announced it would contest Since the election code of con- the possible electoral outcome. except the CM's post" while the formed by secular forces - for a the elections independently with duct is already in force, political The development is being seen Sena hit back by alleging "a secret post-poll re-marriage.

Modi to launch India gifts Mars, its 'MOM' Swachh Bharat Bangalore: India has created space history by "With today's spectacular success, ISRO joins , as a similar mission by China failed in 2011. becoming the first country in the world to an elite group of only three other agencies The Rs.450-crore ($70 million) ambitious Mission on October 2 enter Mars' orbit in its debut attempt. A beam- worldwide to have successfully reached the mission was launched Nov 5, 2013, on board New Delhi: ing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, wearing a Red Planet," he added amidst applause. India a polar rocket from spaceport Sriharikota off Prime Minister Narendra red jacket symbolic of the Red Planet, also became the first Asian country to have Bay of Bengal, about 80 km northeast of Modi will launch the "Swachh Bharat described it as "achieving the near impossi- entered the Mars sphere of influence (gravity) Chennai. Mission", a campaign to clean India, on ble", congratulated the feat of Indian scien- October 2, the birth anniversary of tists and called for challenging the next fron- Mahatma Gandhi. The mission aims to achieve a com- tier. India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) tra- pletely clean India by Oct 2, 2019 to versed over 650 million km through deep mark the 150th birth anniversary of the space for over nine months to successfully father of the nation. Urban reach the planet's orbit. The US, Europe and Development Minister M. Venkaiah Russia had failed in their first attempts. Naidu and Rural Development Minister "The spacecraft (Orbiter) successfully Nitin Gadkari released the logo and slo- entered the Martian orbit at 7.55 a.m. and is gan for the five-year mission here located at about 515 km from its surface...," a Thursday. The logo shows a pair of senior space official said. spectacles of the kind worn by Radars at the earth stations of NASA at Mahatma Gandhi with the words Goldstone in the US, Madrid in Spain, "clean" and "India", and the slogan says Canberra in Australia and India's own deep "One step towards cleanliness". space network at Baylalu near Bangalore The government had invited ideas received the radio signals from the Orbiter, from people for designing the logo and confirming its insertion into the Mars orbit. suggesting slogans. Modi, who witnessed the event from an Prizes of Rs.50,000 and Rs.25,000 Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) were announced for the best entries for facility in Bangalore, said that the successful the logo and the slogan, respectively. Mars mission "must become a base for chal- "The government has launched a lenging the next frontier". Narendra Modi congratulates ISRO chairman K Radhakrishnan. massive campaign to sustain the mis- The success "will go down as landmark in sion and sensitise all officials con- history", said a visibly delighted Modi. cerned," Naidu told the media here. India's Mars mission is "a shining symbol First Mars images given to Modi He said the government has roped in of what we are capable of as a nation" and we various agencies like municipal bodies, have gone beyond boundaries of human New Delhi/Bangalore: ISRO chairman K. Radhakrishnan presented to Prime Minister religious and spiritual organisations and enterprise and imagination, he added. Narendra Modi the first set of images of the Martian surface taken by the Mars Orbiter. letters have been written to all parlia- The 475 kg (dry mass) Orbiter will take 77 The spacecraft started taking images of Mars hours after it was inserted in its orbit mentarians and state governors. hours or 3.2 earth days to rotate around the Wednesday and beamed them to earth, a space official said in Bangalore Thursday. "The campaign will be kicked off red planet over the next six months and will "The Mars Color Camera (MCC) onboard started working soon after the Orbiter sta- from India Gate by Modi on Oct 2 and study its surface and mineral composition and bilised in the elliptical orbit of Mars and has taken a dozen quality pictures of its surface all parliamentarians and ministers will scan its atmosphere for methane gas in search and its surroundings," Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scientific secretary join through video-conferencing from of life-sustaining elements. V. Koteshwara Rao said. The camera took the first image from an altitude of 7,300 km their respective constituencies," he The prime minister said that the MOM was with a 376-metre spatial resolution. added. built "indigenously, in a pan-Indian effort". TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 54 Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 INTERNATIONAL TheSouthAsianTimes.info

US, Arab allies target Obama calls for global support to tackle IS IS-controlled areas in Syria United Nations: President Barack Obama has called on all Washington: The United States, nations to join the fight against along with its Arab allies, has the Islamic State (IS) and other continued airstrikes on positions terrorists whose brutality "forces of the Islamic State (IS) group in us to look into the heart of dark- Syria by targeting oil facilities ness". controlled by the militants. He told the UN General The US Central Command, in Assembly, "Collectively, we charge of American military must take concrete steps to operations in the Middle East, address the danger posed by reli- President Barack Obama said Wednesday that the raids giously motivated fanatics, and "America is and will continue were carried out by fighter the trends that fuel their recruit- to be a Pacific power, promoting planes and cruise missiles on 12 ment." peace, stability, and the free flow refineries under IS control in Speaking after decisively tak- of commerce among nations," he remote areas of eastern Syria. ing on the IS and another terrorist said. "But we will insist that all The US and its four Arab allies group by launching air strikes, he nations abide by the rules of the - Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the made combating terror the main road, and resolve their territorial United Arab Emirates (UAE), focus of the US president's annu- disputes peacefully, consistent and Jordan - with the logistics al address to the Assembly, while with international law." support of Qatar, bombed sever- US aircraft and drones are also flying over Syria to gather also reiterating his tough line on Obama said the "campaign al bunkers of the jihadi group in intelligence and also to mark targets. Russia over Ukraine. against extremism goes beyond a Syria for the first time early ried out in the proximity of the to 500 barrels a day, according There was no mention of South narrow security challenge" and Tuesday. cities of Mayadin, Al-Hasakah, to American intelligence, Asia, but he made a veiled refer- referred to corruption and pover- Pentagon spokesman Rear Abu Kamal and Deir al Zur. although some experts believe ence to China's disputes with ty as factors fuelling terrorism Admiral John Kirby said in an "We are still evaluating the the amount could be greater. other East and Southeast Asian and spreading extremism to other interview with CNN that in the effectiveness of the attacks on Oil sales, along with extortion nations. places. latest attacks, the planes of the the refineries, but the initial indi- and looted antiquities, are a Arab allies outnumbered those cations suggest success," the major source of income for the of the US, especially those from Central Command said in a IS. Sports the UAE and Saudi Arabia. statement. US aircraft and drones are also The Central Command said The refineries were being used flying over Syria to gather that the airstrikes, which lasted by the jihadis to earn more than intelligence and also to mark tar- for about two hours, were car- $2 million per day by selling up gets. Asian Games: India Business await more medals SC cancels 214 coal blocks, spares 4 New Delhi: The Indian Supreme Court has can- coal blocks which have not commenced operation celed 214 coal blocks allocated from 1993 to 2011, notwithstanding the stage of their development, and except four vested with the NTPC, SAIL and Sasan 46 others of which 40 were operational and six that Ultra Mega Power Project (UMPP). can start operation virtually anytime. The court also imposed an additional levy of "As far as the first category of coal block allot- Rs.295 per tonne of coal extracted from exempted ments is concerned, they must be cancelled (except or operational mines. those mentioned in the judgment). There is no rea- The four coal blocks that escaped the axe were son to save them from cancellation," the bench the three in Annexure 1 - Moher and Moher Amroli said. Extension allocated to Sasan Power Ltd. and Tasra, The "allocations are illegal and arbitrary; the allotted to Steel Authority of India Ltd. (SAIL), a allottees have not yet entered into any mining lease central government public sector undertaking not and they have not yet commenced production. having any joint venture. "Whether they are 95 percent ready or 92 percent Cancelling 214 coal blocks, a bench of Chief ready or 90 percent ready for production (as argued Justice R.M. Lodha, Justice Madan B. Lokur and by some learned counsel) is wholly irrelevant," it Shooter Jitu Rai (centre) won gold Justice Kurian Joseph put them in two categories - said. Incheon: The Indian contingent In the team event also the iPhone 6 bending in pockets, say users at the Incheon Asian Games has- Indian contingent had to to be n't yet lived up to the expecta- satisfied with a few bronze London: Have you bought new iPhone 6 from tions so far. medals in the 10m men's air pis- Apple? Check if it bends in your pocket. Apart from a gold medal win- tol event, women's 25 metre team According to media reports, more iphone 6 users ning performance by shooter Jitu event and women's badminton, in are joining the complaints on various social media Rai at the 50 metre pistol and a which India went down to South platforms that new iPhone 6 and 6 Plus chassis bend silver medal by squash player Korea 1-3. in their trouser pockets. Saurav Ghosal, there is not much It was a hard luck especially for The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus chassis is milled from a to talk about. Till now India have Abhinav Bindra, who announce solid piece of aluminium alloy whose composition is won 15 medals till now. his retirement on September 22, secret. The weak area of the phone appears to be Several other top most Indian took part in his last competitive around the volume buttons, where the frame is at its athletes had to be contented with event, a day later. Hopes were thinnest and creates a fulcrum point around which bronze medals which included high on him to say goodbye to the than any before them,” the SquareTrade spokesman the phone bends, Guardian reported. Abhinav Bindra (men's 10 meter sport with a gold medal. But it said in the YouTube video. The screen, however, does not break when the rifle), Dipika palliwal (women's was not to be. China was leading However, previous iPhones users have also com- phone bends. squash), Shweta Chaudhry (10m the medal's tally with 134 plained about their smartphones bending while in Refuting the claims, SquareTrade, a firm that range in air pistol), Dushyant medals, with hosts South Korea pockets. offers extended warranties on products, said new Chauhan (boxing), Narender following with 74 medals while The larger and thinner the smartphone, the more iPhones were the most robust yet in its “breakabili- Grewal (Wushu) and Sanathoi India remained at the 13th posi- likely it is to be damaged by being carried in the ty” rating. Devi (Wushu). tion. “Both new iPhones are bigger and more durable pocket under tension, the report added.

56 Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Humor with Melvin Durai What’s in a Number? Two Much y sister, Irene, and brother-in-law, anniversary. We’ve been together 75 years, skip to the 14th. Tiger Woods’ marriage fell Santosh, recently celebrated their Jack.” apart when he made the regretful mistake of M25th wedding anniversary. It’s a Jack: “Seventy-five years? Goodness gra- getting a 13th girlfriend. For most profes- very significant anniversary and like many cious, Lord Almighty. When the reverend sional athletes, a dozen is perfect. couples who are lucky enough to reach the said, ‘Till death do us part,’ I didn’t realize it milestone, they had a big party to mark the would be this long!” 16 – This is a significant birthday for girls, occasion. It’s curious to me how some numbers are Sweet Sixteen, signifying their passage into Will they celebrate their 30th anniversary more significant in our lives than others. womanhood. Sixteen is also the number of with as much excitement? Probably not. The hours in a day that the average teenager 30th anniversary, by tradition, isn’t quite as Here are some of the most important spends on Facebook. significant as the 25th and neither are the ones: 35th and 40th. When they reach their 50th 21 – This is a significant birthday for boys, anniversary, however, they will be showered 2 – We love this number because it denotes signifying their passage from soft drinks to with congratulatory messages from all seven a couple, a pair. Two is a number we use a decided how many days to have in a week hard drinks. Twenty-one is the minimum continents, as well as the human settlement lot, whether we’re reserving a “Table for and how many dwarfs to help Snow White. drinking age in many parts of the world, and on Mars. Two” at a restaurant, dividing a sandwich by The National Basketball Association (NBA) also the minimum number of empty beer After the 50th anniversary are two signifi- two at Subway, or yelling “Number 2!” from and other sports leagues follow a best-of- cans lying around at the birthday celebration. cant anniversaries: 60 and 75. Only a few the bathroom. seven format in their playoff rounds. Seven couples are lucky enough to reach their 75th is a lucky number for director M. Night 50 – This is a half-century, an extremely anniversary. Those who do are usually in 4 – This is one of my favorite numbers. It’s Shyamalan: The critics love every seventh significant number. When you get to 50, their mid-90s (or older) and not always sure the number of years we usually spend in col- movie he makes. you’re halfway to 100, and you might just what they’re celebrating. lege to earn a degree, the number of seasons get there, especially if you’re as good as in a year, the number of weeks in a month. 10 – Here begins our infatuation with mul- Sachin Tendulkar. (The retired Indian crick- Nursing home aide: “Jack and Delores, Four is the number of grand slam tourna- tiples of ten. Whether it’s 10, 20, 30 or 40, eter is the only player to have scored 100 congratulations! Seventy-five years is a big ments in tennis and major championships in it’s somehow extremely significant to us. We International centuries.) Fifty is the age achievement.” golf. It’s also the number of years we have to feel a lot older when we turn 30 than when when you can get senior discounts at a num- Jack: “Seventy-five years? You mean wait between Olympic Games, World Cups, we turn 29, and not just because we’re stuck ber of places, and it’s also – if you bother we’ve been in this place for 75 years and Charlie Sheen marriages. on 29 for several years. counting – the strands of hair you have left. already? How old am I anyway?” Delores: “She’s talking about our wedding 7 – We gave importance to 7 when we 12 – A dozen is how we prefer to acquire a 100 – Few numbers can compare to 100 in lot of things. Try selling people a carton of significance. Getting to 100 makes you a 11 eggs and they’ll probably laugh in your centenarian, old enough to say “Hi kids!” to face. But a dozen is perfect, whether it’s everyone at the shuffleboard tournament. It’s eggs, roses, or Saudi wives. truly an honor to be in a list of 100, whether you’re a Top 100 tennis player, one of the 13 – Thirteen is the unlucky number, the “100 Most Influential People in the world” number we try to avoid. Many high-rise or the first 100 people to get selfies with the buildings don’t have a 13th floor – they just Dalai Lama.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

by Mahendra Shah

Mahendra Shah is an architect by education, entrepreneur by profession, artist and humorist, cartoonist and writer by hobby. He has been recording the plight of the immigrant Indians for the past many years in his cartoons. Hailing from Gujarat, he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 58 Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 ASTROLOGY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874; Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma 2648 9899; [email protected]; www.premastrologer.com Stars Foretell: September 27-October 3, 2014

ARIES: With your high confidence you will be able TAURUS: Timely help of associates will not only GEMINI: A promising week to start a new venture CANCER: Your technical expertise gives a deci- to cross all hurdles at professional front. pass difficult times at work but also in partnership. All are likely to be bene- sive edge over competitors at work. A happy time in the company of help in regaining professional edge. fited. Shopping with family members You will be at the limelight in a friends and relatives as they do many Enjoying the company of close rela- will be highly pleasurable and excit- social gathering provided you favours to you. You get some finan- tives will brighten your evening. ing. A new financial deal gets final- attend. Financial position will cial rewards as dedication & hard Monetary gains are likely to be from ized paving the way for fresh improve later in the week. Partner work gets noticed. Sudden romantic more than one source. A promising money. Take love companion into brings immense romantic pleasure encounter is foreseen in this week. Positive week for romance when your innovation infuses a confidence before taking any decision related to even if work pressure occupies your outlook impresses those around you besides keeping new spirit in it. Charity work undertaken will bring love. Meditation and self-realization prove benefi- mind You will have ample time to do things to you fit & fine. Vacation full of beauty and history as mental peace & comfort. Travelling on your own, cial. Travel in comfort with kids to an adventurous improve your health. Traveling internationally well as exciting is waiting for you. Looking for good with a friend or with the whole family will be excit- place might be possible. It always is exciting to means too much expense. Buying cheap property long term investments, then go for a property which ing and comfortable too. Value the property at right begin looking at homes for sale in your area. You in the right location can provide you triple gain is under construction. Verbal communication will be price to attract buyers for it. Your valuable advice will get lot of interesting invitations including a sur- annually. Your magnetic-outgoing personality will your biggest asset. would help someone in distress. prise gift. impress others. LEO: Hard work of the past brings rich dividends. VIRGO: Dedication & loyalty at work would bring LIBRA: New ventures start on a positive note. An SCORPIO: You succeed in completing projects However continue enhancing your desired results. Have fun in the compa- auspicious week for family functions efficiently provided you put in all your skills/adopt techniques for further ny of relatives. All investments need and important ceremonies. efforts. A week for renewal of bonds development. You will be the star of to be made with proper consultation Investment in stocks & mutual and family ties. Long-term invest- attraction of familys get-together in to avoid losses. Romantic imagina- funds would help in earning profits. ment in stocks & mutual funds will this week. Real estate investment tion occupies mind forcing to go out Cupids arrows would make your enable to earn profits. You are likely would be lucrative. Romance rules heart of the way to please partner. You will heart flutter high. to enjoy a pleasure trip that will reju- & mind. Sound physical health will enable to partici- be successful in getting rid from tensions. A luxuri- A sparkling laughter filled week when most venate your passions. Strive to attain self-confi- pate in outdoor activities. A trip that stimulates and ous getaway type vacation with your spouse waiting things proceed, as you desire. An ideal vacation can dence because it is as essential for good health as gives opportunity for work is coming ahead. for you. Don’t deal in a property which is crime rid- claim your basic living expenses. Property disputes capital for business. Your whole family needs a holi- Investing in property business sounds very appealing. den. If you have been waiting for interesting things can be there. You find yourself in the day, look further and take a break. Banks love to Your magnetic, outgoing personality will put you into happening in your life, then you are sure to find spotlight when your help is publicly acknowledged. finance those, who invest in properties which are the limelight in social function. some relief. underdevelopment.

SAGITTARIUS: To take business to newer heights CAPRICORN : If possible, take the help of emo- AQUARIUS: Hard work put-in the past will yield PISCES: Business partners behave supportive on you will have to induct highly motivat- tional intelligence to succeed at profes- handsome rewards in business in this executing strategies to sort out pending ed persons with excellent interper- sional front. You will enjoy the time week. Your generous behaviour problems. Friends and family mem- sonal skills in your team. Help from spent with family members and would enable to enjoy some lovely bers would lend a helping hand. Even family members would take care of friends. Speculation coupled with moments with family. Extra caution though funds might easily slip your needs. Improvement in finances some unexpected gains improves & care seems to be the need of the through your fingers, let it not is certain. Romantic entanglement financial health. For some work takes a hour especially in financial matters. unnerve you because your lucky stars would add spice to your happiness. Dont backseat, as you find comfort in the arms of Use new but innovative methods to catch would keep the finances flowing. Chances forget to massage body to give relief to tired mus- love partner. Your enormous confidence would help the attraction of opposite sex. Start meditation & of your love life turning into life-long bond are high cles. Thrilling experience is on your way, as your in enjoying a healthy life. Pack your bags as a happy, yoga to attain sound health especially mental tough- on the card. A very healthy week filled with happi- trip is full of excitement A good deal on commercial fun-filled holiday is looking forward. Their might be ness. An enriching vacation full of fun is what you ness & vitality. Time to make your vacation a dream property might occur. Your ability to help needy a chance of acquiring a plot from your closed relative. need. You might deal in some ancestral property or come true. A deal regarding residential property can people will bring respect. You receive important invitation from an unexpected any other parental property. A sparkling laughter- start moving on its right path. Ability to act swiftly to friend. filled week when most things go as you desire. solve personal problems will be highly appreciated. Annual Predictions: For those born in this week 27th September, 2014 marry during the end of this year, it may happen. have a positive and practical approach towards every draw your attention in the coming year. You will be able Traits in you: As the planet Mars is your ruling planet, Lucky month: November, February, March and Sep. work to take on. You may get new tasks and assignments to enjoy the seas, flowers and on the whole, nature, you are blessed with personal traits such as active, dar- to show your efficiency and you will succeed in bring- which will give you a sense of satisfaction. Being clos- ing, friendly, and religious. You are always inclined to 29th September, 2014 ing out excellent results if you work hard. You should er to nature gives both mental and physical peace. music, art, and literature. There are few negative traits Traits in you: You possess all the characteristics of a embrace every new idea coming across you as that Finance this year: Investment related to your house can in your nature that you need to work on. You should not perfect personality as you are highly energetic, depend- would help you perform better in your profession. be profitable as you will decide to purchase a new plot. behave jealous or unpredictable. able, disciplined, inventive, honest and warm-hearted. Romance this year: You will be deeply involved with It will improve your financial position by bringing long Health this year: You will be enjoying a sound health You believe in helping others and you do not show re- your romantic interest this year and may think to con- term gains for you. this year provided you go for proper medication. You luctance in spending your time and money for others. vert your relationship to marriage Career this year: In the coming year, your superiors need to get your medical checkup done on time. Being highly social, you love making new friends and Lucky month:November, March, July and September will notice your sincerity and loyalty, and they will en- Finance this year: If you invest on real estate this year, new relationships. However, you need to work on your trust a lot of responsibility on your shoulders. You will it will be highly beneficial for you. You will be able to nature of becoming impatient, careless, and stubborn. 1st October, 2014 be able to fulfill these duties to the utmost. make yourself stable financially. You will be taking dif- Health this year: Your parents may suffer few health Traits in you: Being number 1, you are a person who Romance this year: If you are in love, then your affair ferent jobs of high risk and responsibility. You may trav- related issues. That may increase your medical expens- loves originality in whatever work you do. By nature will have to face some testing times as it might get dis- el abroad for business purpose or holidays. es and tensions. you are an authoritative person and so you always take closed this year. However, it will be in your interest to Career this year: You believe in research oriented work Finance this year: You may find it very rewarding to charge of things which also makes you responsible per- face it courageously, so that you can enjoy your life with and make sure your work is perfect. You should behave invest your money in real estate business. You should re- son. If you take some task in hand, you are determined the person you love. a bit proactive to show your efficiency in your profes- search on the market vividly before investing on any- to finish it. You are very soft spoken and kind hearted Lucky month: June, September and December sional career. You need to plan your year effectively to thing. The legal disputes that have been disturbing you person. get benefits from everything you do. You will enjoy ex- for a long time may get solved this year and you will Health this year: Happiness is a mantra for healthy 3rd October, 2014 ceptional results of your efforts later in the year. You find it satisfactory enough. body too. Living a great social life and enjoying all Traits in you: Being number 3, you are confident, am- will be however delivering quality in your work. Career this year: You will get your expected rewards pleasures of life in the coming year will keep you strong bitious and independent person who loves to work with Romance this year: You will enjoy a great romantic life and awards in your professional career this year for your both physically and mentally. optimistic attitude. You are a born leader, and you are al- this year. efficiency and achievements. Promotion may be round Finance this year: This year you will be able to save ways appreciated for your work, whether it is at home Lucky month: January, May, July and October the corner. money for the future, which will give you a sense of se- or work place. Your efforts are always sincere and that’s Romance this year: You will share a very good rela- curity and satisfaction. You might also purchase some why you balance your personal and professional life 28th September, 2014 tionship with your spouse this year. artefacts for your home, which will bring beauty and a very smoothly. Traits in you: As you are governed by the power of the Lucky month: December, April, June and October sense of well being around you. Health this year: This year you will make efforts to en- Sun, your ruling planet, you are unique, dynamic, fear- Career this year: In career, success and prosperity will joy the true happiness. You need to keep in mind that less, honorable, responsible and down-to-earth. You do 30th September, 2014 be yours, in the year ahead of you. You will handle chal- physical happiness is attained by self-restraint, eating dare to accept any challenge that has been offered to you Traits in you: Your ruling planet Jupiter makes you cre- lenging projects, with determination and sincerity. This simple but balanced & nourishing food and daily exer- as you trust your intelligence and efficiency. However, ative, humble, daring, honorable and unique. Your pow- will bring you fame and recognition. Your ideas will cise. You will start participating in any sports or outdoor you should have a control of your dominant and de- erful characteristics make you very helpful, energetic draw the attention of your seniors. Your work will be ap- activities to keep yourself in good health. structive attitude. and enthusiastic. You are a vivid follower of love, peace preciated by your colleagues and seniors. Finance this year: As far as finances are concerned, Health this year: Your health will be absolutely fine and harmony. You detest arguments and confrontations. Romance this year: You are a person with strong per- you need to invest your hard-earned money wisely. this year. You may feel very tired if you do some phys- However, you should not behave according to your sonality, so it’s for you to attract the attention of opposite Look at all the aspects of business before putting your ical work. So you need to go for regular jogging to en- mood swings. You should learn to control your attitude sex. However it would be in your interest if you don't money, then only it would enable you to fetch good re- hance your stamina. towards others. make false promises. Better to channelise your efforts to turns. Finance this year: You may face some financial diffi- Health this year: You would not suffer from any major develop friendly relations to bring love in your life. Career this year: Your ability to express your views culties during the initial months of the year but later you health issues. However, some of your family members Lucky month: July, October and January and ideas, will take you to the top of hierarchy, in the will be able to solve your problems and you will become may fall sick for a long time. year ahead of you. Your superiors will notice your sin- stable. You should create new contacts and go back to Finance this year: If you have past investments at place, 2nd October, 2014 cerity and loyalty. They will entrust a lot of responsibil- old ones as this year you may require friends to support you will be financially benefited from those. However, Traits in you: Being number 2, you are a person who is ity on your shoulders. You will be able to fulfill all these you during critical financial conditions. You should not you should not try to invest on uncertain investment highly ambitious and always look upwards towards duties to the utmost, making everyone happy. put your money in joint venture by partnering someone plans. You may carry out construction or renovation progress and prosperity. You need to control your dom- Romance this year: This year, you might meet the in their business. work in your property towards the end of the year. inating nature, to keep those around you happy. You are sweetest dream of your life, means a person of your Career this year: If you have been waiting for a long Career this year: You need to be a bit proactive if you a born leader, and expect your colleagues and friends to dream, whose thoughts have kept your memory radiant. time to get a promotion or hike in your salary, this year want to improve as a professional. Your quick decision follow whatever you order them to. This sometimes, It is now upto you to take initiatives to develop friendly will end your wait. making capability will help you receive appreciations leads to misunderstandings. relations with him/her. Romance this year: If you think you are eligible to from your seniors and colleagues this year. You will Health this year: Nature and natural surroundings will Lucky month: June, November, February and April

60 Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS TheSouthAsianTimes.info How to Improve Spiritually?

want to show ourselves in our best he lost by a little less. When we light. To progress spiritually, we can look at our failures, we know what When we attempt to gain any- honestly analyze the areas in we have to do to do better each day. thing in the world, it is often based Then, by making an effort, we will on the concept that we put our- which we need to improve. We have fewer failures than on the pre- selves forward and hide our weak- are not applying for a job with vious day. Over time, we would nesses. This is typical in worldly God and are not writing a ultimately reach a stage in which affairs. we have improved and reach zero In this connection, there is a true spiritual resume to show failures. story from the sports world. A uni- ourselves in a good light. To progress spiritually, we can versity football team was condi- Rather, we are applying for honestly analyze the areas in which tioning themselves by practicing we need to improve. We are not By Sant Rajinder Singh running. One of the players had the union with God, the abode of applying for a job with God and are Ji Maharaj position of lineman. This large all purity and virtue. To enter not writing a spiritual resume to player was in a tackle position and into that union we need to show ourselves in a good light. We hen we apply for a job considered the fastest lineman in are not applying for a credit loan and write a resume, we the team. One day, he walked up to weed out any ethical failures. from God where we conceal our Wusually try to highlight his coach and asked if he could run business failures and show only our all the good things about our expe- sprints with the fastest running ball player’s answer. area he wanted to master, his short- successes. Rather, we are applying rience, our background, and our- backs. The coach gave him permis- The young man said, “I’m not comings would become visible and for union with God, the abode of all selves. Many people hide all the sion. here to outrun the linemen. I he could work on overcoming purity and virtue. To enter into that difficulties they have had in their The lineman went out daily to already know I can do that. I’m them. He was after improvement, union we need to weed out any eth- career and focus on their great run, but each day he came in last. here to learn how to run faster, and not accolades and praise. ical failures. We cannot hide our achievements. When employers Day after day, he continued to run if you have noticed, Sir, I lose to A way to improve spiritually is to failings from God, who sees all. read such resumes, they often feel with the fastest backs, even though the backs by a little less each day!” take an honest look at our failings God wants our honest efforts in each is describing the greatest per- each day he lost. This was to be This account holds the secret to and weaknesses. By doing so, we overcoming the failures. When the son who ever lived. We try to put expected because linemen are gen- our spiritual progress. Whereas in can weed them out and work on Lord sees us making an effort to ourselves in the best possible light erally not considered as fast as the worldly work, we always want to improving. Besides noting our posi- honestly assess our failings, even if to land the job. running backs. appear the best, when it comes to tive efforts, we should also analyze we have difficulties, our sincerity is When going to a bank for a busi- The coach, thinking it was spiritual work, we cannot hide who our failings. Through this brutally recognized. God then responds with ness loan, we also list our greatest strange, asked himself, “Why we are from God. Our progress is honest look at ourselves, we would compassion and grace. Thus, if we financial achievements and best would this football player want to an open book to the Lord. The see areas for improvement. If we are still struggling, we will get help. references. We want to appear to be play with the best runners and con- grace we receive to progress spiri- looked at only our successes, we God gives us a boost to overcome a safe client and not a credit risk. tinually come in last when he could tually is based on sincere efforts. might become complacent and our failings so we can weed them We write down all our business and run with the linemen and be the We cannot hide the truth of our think we have reached the pinnacle out and make progress. financial successes in the hope that fastest?” spiritual gains and failures from the of glory. Then, we would not By our effort and God’s grace, we the loan officer will grant a loan. The coach observed the young Creator. change; we would be satisfied with will improve spiritually more When applying for college or man and finally, after seeing the The football player learned that what we are and take longer to quickly. If we practice introspection business school, we collect all the lineman lose for many days, decid- he would not improve by living on reach our goal. with complete honesty and sinceri- best references from former teach- ed to ask him: “Wouldn’t you prefer past glories. He knew he could only The football player could see ty, focusing on areas in which we ers so that a college will find us to be a winner and run with the improve by challenging himself. By what the other runners were doing need to improve, we will see rapid appealing as a candidate. Few peo- other lineman, rather than keep seeing his weaknesses as a runner, and could work on developing his spiritual progress. ple would request letters from being a loser running with the he could work on them to improve. ability. The losses showed him If we put it to the test, we will be teachers who would describe them backs?” By pitting himself against those what he needed to do better the able to see the results and proof for as slacking off or misbehaving. We He was surprised to hear the foot- who were better than he was in the next time. By doing this, each day ourselves. Thousands gather to celebrate Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj's birth anniversary Chicago, IL: The international audience that gathered at the Westin Hotel traveled from all over the globe to celebrate the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj, world-renowned spiritual Master and head of Science of Spirituality. It was the first time since his mission began in 1989 that the spiritual Master’s birthday was celebrated in the United States. For the past 25 years, the occasion has drawn hundreds of thousands to Delhi, India. The evening began with a vegetarian din- ner reception followed by a formal program in the Grand Ballroom. After several hours of entertainment with singing and live music, including a qawwali band from India per- Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj holds forming divine verses about the soul’s desire the newly released book Encircled by for communion with God, Sant Rajinder Divine Love at the birthday program Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj greets the international crowd gathered. Singh spoke about birthdays, recalling expe- on Sept. 19 riences with his own spiritual Master, Sant the scope of the spiritual Master’s divine celebratory cake cutting as the crowd sang, soul, unaware of its true nature, has identi- Kirpal Singh Ji Maharaj, who said that every grace which has touched disciples not only “Happy Birthday,” and cheered enthusiasti- fied itself with the body and the mind. day should be treated like our birthday in their daily lives, but also at deeply spiritu- cally. Instead of the soul controlling the mind and because it is a gift from God. al levels. The firsthand experiences present- Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj travels the the mind controlling the senses, the situation In honor of the spiritual Master’s birthday, ed in the book, taken in concert, help globe extensively teaching meditation on the has become reversed. The soul is dragged by the evening also saw the release of the new describe the role and benefit of a true spiritu- inner Light and Sound of God, encouraging the mind, and the mind is pulled by the sens- book Encircled by Divine Love – al Master. those he meets to lead ethical lives and real- es into the outer world. By inverting our Experiences of the Grace of Sant Rajinder The birthday program was concluded when ize their true selves as soul. attention and rising above the physical body Singh Ji Maharaj. This 146-page book is a Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj’s son, Dr. In the booklet “Inner Peace through through meditation, we will find regions collection of personal accounts that convey Kunwarjit Duggal, joined him on stage for a Meditation,” the spiritual Master says, “The within which give us lasting peace. “ TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014 TheSouthAsianTimes.info NaMo Special Sept 27-Oct 3, 2014