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0800 700 600 financematters.co.nz /financemattersnz /financemattersnz company/financemattersnz A Better New Zealand August 20 - August 26, 2020 I 3 New steps towards a multi-religious New Zealand ow are religious studies taught in terms of history, legislation, public workshops; in organisations with Interfaith leaders throughout the country. Hin the schools of other secular discourse, what is taught and by whom. professional development in religious The aim of the hui was to explore how democracies? What do New Zealanders Over 650 New Zealand stakeholders have diversity; in Jewish Muslim student government and others might support think about religious education? How been surveyed about their attitudes to dialogues and Year 12 student religious efforts towards greater social inclusion do they feel about the two approaches, a the existing situation and possible future diversity leadership days. and religious tolerance in New Zealand. broad study of the major faiths and value changes. The draft report of the findings The RDC has a three-part series on Ethnic Communities Minister Salesa’s systems taught by professional qualified is with the Ministry and will help to frame Muslim-Christian relations by Professor report from the hui is due out shortly. teachers, and religious instruction in a future policy. Douglas Pratt available on YouTube, and Jocelyn Armstrong recently received particular religion as offered now in many New Zealand is now the 15th most has launched a series of virtual panel the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lambeth primary schools? religiously diverse country in the world. discussions entitled Becoming Better Hubert Walter Award, in recognition of These are pertinent questions that are The Religious Diversity Centre (RDC) Together: Interfaith Perspectives on her “outstanding contribution to interfaith not yet openly discussed. But following a was set up in March 2016 to foster Current Issues. relations in New Zealand.” Jocelyn has meeting with the Minister of Education, appreciation, understanding, and deeper Armstrong says that building welcomed the award as recognition of Chris Hipkins, about religion in schools, relationships among the many different relationships is a vital part of the RDC’s New Zealand’s standing in the world the Religious Diversity Centre, co-chaired religious and secular communities in New work. An annual forum brings the and the development of interfaith by Jocelyn Armstrong and Dr Jenny Te Zealand. national religious leaders together. The relationships achieved by the work of Paa Daniel, was tasked to report on these RDC’s key programmes bring people four Connecting Faiths/Interfaith hui many people and groups over the past questions. from different faith backgrounds together: hosted early in the year by the Office thirty years. Research has been carried out on in the local community with religious of Ethnic Communities gave the RDC - from the Religious Diversity Centre the experience of five other countries diversity and anti-discrimination the opportunity to meet with Faith and Aotearoa New Zealand (www.rdc.org.nz)
The Religious Diversity Centre Annual General Meeting took place with some participating in person and some by zoom! Co-Chair Jocelyn Armstrong outlined the achievements of the past year and where the Centre is headed
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Airport Oaks 09 255 5500 Manukau 09 263 5555 Henderson 09 836 5555 Tauranga 07 577 0011 4 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 NZ POLITICS Government introduces COVID-19 Leave Support scheme
some assurance keeping on with work and mixing with infection. that collectively, we others. But we all need to be proactive There are no magic cures for Covid-19. will again track and about getting tested if we have symptoms But we can all help reduce its impact by contain the virus. As that could indicate Covid-19. Those getting tested, staying home when we’re unlucky as we are to symptoms are just like ordinary colds: if sick, wearing facemasks, washing hands be experiencing this you have a sore throat, a runny nose, or a and keeping physically distant where outbreak, locking cough, then please consider getting tested possible. It all makes a difference, and by down hard and early and staying home. doing it, we are all helping each other. is again our best We also need to enable people to do chance of emerging things differently. The government has safely. changed the Covid-19 Leave Support We should all scheme to make it easier for workers to be very grateful take leave to get tested and self-isolate, to everyone who and to support businesses when workers has turned up for take leave. From now on, if a worker testing. They are has been told by health officials or their doing the right medical practitioner to self-isolate, their thing, even if it employer will be able to receive the means staying home equivalent of the wage subsidy to help from work and cover the cost of wages. community activities Taking leave when we are sick should n the past few days we have seen an until the test result become a normal thing to do. extraordinary increase in testing for I is known. They are truly part of the team The other thing we all need to learn Covid-19. Over 100,000 people have of five-million. to do is wear facemasks. Some New Deborah Russell been tested since the new outbreak For some of us, staying home when we Zealanders are already good at doing began. As we work to control the current are unwell will involve a mind-shift. We try this, but all of us need to do it. Wearing a Labour MP based in New Lynn, outbreak, this level of testing gives us Auckland. to power on through illnesses and injuries, facemask helps to reduce the chances of Is this the most expensive operational failure in New Zealand history? We all Finally, if the strategy was always for of death and infection without imposing operated with restrictions to last one incubation cycle of severe lockdowns. confidence 14 days, the Government should have said It’s time for an honest conversation based on an so rather than announcing just 3 days. about what our overall strategy is. assurance one It’s fair to look at the decision to extend We cannot afford a rolling maul of month ago that Auckland’s lockdown by 12 days is an blunt and expensive lockdowns. We the government admission that the Government is out of need competence, not just good was testing all its depth. Strike 4. communication. border workers. The border should have always been the While Mt Roskill breathes through its This was untrue. Government biggest focus. Now we will all oxygen mask of (yet more) wage subsidies ost Kiwis stake their lives on the That no-one in pay a heavy price. and debt for our children, we are saying Moperational safety of airlines. They Cabinet noticed that border and MIQ staff A lockdown in March was OK given to ourselves that we will never fly on this squeeze us into metal tubes where our – the thousands of people who were most the information we had at the time, but airline again. - by ACT’s candidate for Mt very lives are dependant upon the care likely to get Covid-19 – had not yet all it’s clear the subsequent strategy hasn’t Roskill, Chris Johnston, who has outlined and attention to detail of the maintenance been tested is unbelievable. Strike 2. worked. above, what principles and policies ACT engineers, pilots and many ground staff. Testing numbers fell dramatically in The costs of lockdowns – in terms of stands for. Chris is a Project Manager who We expect thorough operational processes July. People at community testing centres mental health, delayed health treatments, was born in Whanganui and has lived to ensure that “the mistake” that causes a have faced seven-hour delays. Staff at MIQ small business failures, unemployment around Mt Roskill and Dominion Road for lot of damage is minimised. facilities have been photographed without and debt for future generations – are just eight years with his wife and children. The operational failures at our border PPE. This is the equivalent of watching too high. over the last 100 days will cost many the cabin crew forgetting to close the door It’s easy to criticise, what ACT is New Zealanders their liberty, health, and before take-off, while assuring us of their proposing is a new strategy. We need to hundreds of millions per week. Worse, thorough procedures. revise the way we’re dealing with Covid-19 it will cost us confidence in the ability Last week the Government told us it and operating our border because it’s to plan our lives and our businesses – had set itself one job – test, trace and simply unaffordable not to. prompting many to stop investing, stop isolate the virus in three days – but it ACT has set out five principles for creating jobs and close. has failed. The mechanisms that were better public health: stop preaching Given the failure, a lockdown seems supposed to control another outbreak and fear, have an open debate about our like the only option, but no-one is happy protect failed. We were told for 100 days national strategy, treat travel to different that a well communicating cabin crew is another outbreak was a matter of “when” countries differently based on risk, use shouting “brace, brace, brace” – we should not “if ” – so Mt Roskill residents will better technology, and use private sector have avoided the crash. rightly ask ‘what preparations were made solutions for testing, tracing and isolation. It is clear that all border workers during the last 100 days? Strike 3. Taiwan has managed to have low rates should have been tested regularly. Strike 1. NZ POLITICS August 20 - August 26, 2020 I 5 National's 2020 Party List: Bakshi at 24, Parmar at Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi National List MP based 27, Beeram at 52 in Manukau East Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi (List MP since 2008) 1/131 Kolmar Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland • New Zealand Parliament’s first Indian Sikh 09 278 9302 Member • National’s spokesperson for ethnic [email protected] communities and associate justice bakshiks Electorate: Panmure-Otahuhu, Auckland bakshi.co.nz List ranking: 24 For JP services please contact Rahul Chopra on 09 278 9302 Parmjeet Parmar (List MP since 2014)
• First Indian born woman to be a Member of Parliament in New Zealand • National’s spokesperson for research, science and innovation, as well as statistics Electorate: Mount Roskill, Auckland List ranking: 27
Bala Beeram
• Past President of New Zealand Telugu
Association Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by • Associated with the National Party since 2007 Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi MP, 1/131 Kolmar Road, Papatoetoe. Electorate: Kelston, Auckland List ranking: 52
New Zealand First selects Fiji-Indian Anne Degia-Pala as its candidate from Kelston again
the West Auckland area for over 30 years. “Anne was elected as the first woman president Waitakere Ethnic Board. I passionately of the Waitakere Ethnic About Anne Degia-Papa (as pursued community development Board in 2004 and was later told to Multicultural Times last and governance which I am strongly appointed to the Ethnic year) committed to in my effort to advance People’s Advisory Panel social, cultural, environmental and for Auckland Council. She Last year, when Degia-Papa stood in economic well-being of families, founded EthNix Links, a the local government elections for the especially women and children. I women’s leadership network Whau Ward, she told the Multicultural developed an interest in public policy, in 2006, a board member Times in an email interview: social development, human rights and of Make a Wish Pacific “My arrival in New Zealand was in advocacy. Foundation, Drowning February 1990 with my husband and I was elected the first woman Prevention Auckland, and two children. I am born in Fiji with a President of Waitakere Ethnic Board a member of the Interfaith South Asian heritage from Gujarat, in 2004 followed by several community Auckland group. Her work India. I worked as an executive officer roles and appointed as a founding in voluntary sector toward at the University of Auckland followed member of the Auckland Council ethnic communities earned by senior executive positions in the corporate sector. I am a company Ethnic Peoples Advisory Panel in 2010. n an announcement early this month, her a Queen’s Service Medal director of WinMac Solutions Ltd an For my work with women and the Deputy Prime Minister Winston in 2007. I Information Technology Company children, I was awarded a Queen Peters party, New Zealand First, has “Ms Pala is an advocate for peace and now operating some 24 years in West Service Medal by the Government selected Fiji-Indian Anne Degia-Pala as social justice, equality, human rights Au c kl a n d .” of New Zealand in 2007 and was its candidate from the West Auckland and child poverty. With the wealth of In my spare time, I volunteered appointed an Ambassador for Peace in electorate of Kelston once again. experience she brings and her continued for women and children. In 2001 a 2017 by the Family Federation of World “Ms Pala was our candidate in the same commitment to the Party, we are glad to family tragedy led me to become Pe a c e .” electorate in 2017 and represented our have her as our candidate for Kelston in involved in education and the Party’s values very well. She has lived in 2020,” said the party. - TIN Bureau 6 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 NEWS Communities covered – face masks for communities
when you're out and about. Wearing a These masks will be available at a Stay kind. Keep safe. face covering helps keep you and others community hub for community groups - from Auckland Indian Association Inc. safe. wishing to distribute to vulnerable and Belong Aotearoa The Auckland Indian Association and members of their community, to pick up Belong Aotearoa are working together to for distribution upon appointment only make sure our communities are covered from this week between set hours. by providing face masks to community Please note if you do not have a face organisations. This is not available for all covering, you don’t need to rush out to and anyone wanting masks. obtain a face mask. You can use another This service is only available to kind of covering, like a bandanna, scarf or community organisations and leaders t-shirt. who are able to distribute masks to To find out more information about those in their community who they have accessing face masks, please contact us identified as being vulnerable, in need on [email protected] t Alert Level 3, you are strongly and who would otherwise not have Together, let’s make sure our Aencouraged to wear a face covering access to face masks. communities are covered. Election to be held on October 17
rime Minister Jacinda Ardern has Pconfirmed the General Election will be held on 17 October. “The Electoral Commission, via the Ministry of Justice, has advised me that a safe and accessible election is achievable on this date. This short delay gives the Commission more time to prepare including freeing up facilities for early voting during school holidays,” Jacinda Ardern said. “Moving the date by four weeks also gives all parties a fair shot to campaign and delivers New Zealanders certainty without unnecessarily long delays. “With the re-emergence of Covid-19 in our community these are not ordinary times and so while the decision as to the election date sits with me, I spoke with all party leaders to seek their views. “Covid will be with us for some time to come. Continuously pushing out an election does not lessen the risk of disruption and this is why the Electoral Commission has planned for the possibility of holding an election where the country is at Level 2, and with some parts at Level 3. “I will not change the election date again. “This decision gives all parties time over the next nine weeks to campaign and the Electoral Commission enough time to ensure an election can go ahead,” Jacinda Ardern said. - TIN Bureau
Key dates
• 6 September: Parliament dissolves • 13 September: Writ Day, nominations close 18 September • 3 October: Advance voting begins, last day for return of the writ is 12 November • 17 October: Election day NEWS KIWI-INDIANS August 20 - August 26, 2020 I 7 Kiwi–Indian doctor’s advise on home medical management plan for mild COVID-19 goes ‘viral’
• Vritti Parasher
r Sandhya Ramanatha, General in fact, the management plan is not only the upper respiratory tract clear and Zealand being gripped by second wave at DPractitioner in Grey Lynn, Auckland, for COVID-19, its relevant for any virus,” preventing further spread of infection in present. has become a social media sensation in Dr Sandhya explains, backed by the the channel is evident. the last two months where she shared philosophy of treating every patient like a “Knowledge is power, an eighteen-minute-long video of home family member. information that is relevant needs medical management plan for treating Ramanathan’s management plan to be clearly communicated to mild COVID-19. has recommendation for equipments people,” says the motivated doctor From 18 to 5.42K subscribers on to keep at home for managing the mild who is on a mission to empower YouTube, to getting circulated on symptoms. This is in context to cities and people and raise awareness. Whatsapp that further landed in the towns where the access to hospital level In New Zealand, it is important medical circle all across the globe, and care is difficult. This originated from her for people not to panic as this can finally getting picked up by various media intention to help her family overseas in affect immunity. outlets, particularly in India, she now has countries like the UK, US, Australia, and Anxiety management and more that 4.4 million views of her video. India. looking after themselves is of utter No, she has not come out with a Thereafter, in her video she prescribes most importance at this hour. magical vaccine or medication for this an active home management plan “The more you educate yourself, cruel virus, but has asked everyone to find divided into three broad categories, including children the better it solutions in simple things around to fight priming immunity, reducing viral load would be. People are looking for this pandemic. and breathing exercises/positioning. This information from a credible source “You have to actively fight it! Focus on would help anyone optimally manage a and giving them the right kind of finding solutions and applying common mild case of coronavirus at home and knowledge is essential,” explains Dr sense rather than letting this rule you,” she prevent it becoming severe. Ramanathan. says. When she talks about reducing Humbled with the kind of Wearing mask is one such solution viral load i.e Betadine or saline gargles response she has got from which she says can reduce the risk twice daily, Saline nasal spray or rinsing everywhere, she is just doing her of catching the virus. It’s simple and with a few drops betadine concentrate best and wants to save lives in this effective, maintaining that distance and twice daily, steam inhalation with vicks era where the world still has not got washing hands regularly. especially if having loss of smell and nasal any respite for the pandemic which “Nothing I have said will cause harm, decongestants; her emphasis on keeping is spreading like wild fire. New
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Authorised by the Secretary for Justice 8 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 New Zealand COVID-19
(Graph courtesy World Health Organisation) COVID-19 related announcements this week New wage subsidy, leave scheme protects jobs and businesses
orkers whose jobs may be affected and ‘negatively impacted’ tests for the Salient points Wby the re-emergence of COVID-19 COVID-19 Leave Support Scheme. This in Auckland will be supported by a new means businesses with workers who • The new wage subsidy wage subsidy scheme and a simplified have been told by health officials or their is forecast to cost about leave scheme. medical practitioner to self-isolate will $510 million and cover The Government has this week set out receive the equivalent of the wage subsidy 470,000 jobs. the criteria for a new nationwide wage to help cover that person’s wages for the • The criteria for the subsidy covering the period that Auckland time they cannot be at work. new wage subsidy are is at COVID-19 Alert Level 3. It has also “Our focus is on doing everything we similar to the current removed the revenue-drop test for the can to support our strong public health extension: In particular, COVID-19 Leave Support Scheme. response. That means removing barriers a business must have “The new wage subsidy will help to a person getting tested, including fears had, or is predicting to support cashflow and confidence. Along that a positive result would put their have, a revenue drop due with the existing wage subsidy extension employment at risk or that they wouldn’t to COVID-19 of at least extended wage subsidy. – which is open until 1 September receive income while they couldn’t work 40 percent. For this new scheme, the • MSD has advised the new wage subsidy for eligible businesses – the Treasury because they had used up their sick leave.” revenue drop applies for any consecutive scheme will be open for applications by estimates that about 930,000 jobs will be The mortgage deferral scheme is also period of at least 14 days within 12 the end of the week, Friday 21 August. covered by the two schemes. We know being extended from its current end- August and 10 September compared to • Making the scheme nationwide in New Zealand that the best economic date of 27 September, to 31 March 2021. last year. recognises the specific nature of the response is a strong health response. Further details will be made available by • The Treasury also estimates that a current outbreak and Auckland’s We’ve seen the benefits to the economy the Reserve Bank and the retail banks. number of businesses that weren’t able position in the New Zealand economy. by going hard and early to get on top of Grant Robertson also confirmed that to access the extended wage subsidy Tourism operators that had been the virus, with activity in June and July further work is being done to ensure before it expires on 1 September will expecting visitors from Auckland, running above levels seen last year as support continues to be adaptable and now become eligible to do so. This is companies that supply and trade with the economy reopened after lockdown flexible for alert level movements. This expected to cover about 460,000 workers, Auckland businesses and hospitality and and business got going again,” Finance includes work on the Small Business at $1.1 billion. retail businesses around the country are Minister Grant Robertson said. Cashflow Loan Scheme and potential • The costs are expected to be covered all affected by the measures to fight the “To further support wide-scale further changes to the Leave Support by the previous underspend on the virus. testing, we’ve removed the revenue-drop Scheme. - TIN Bureau
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(Graph courtesy World Health Organisation) India records most COVID-19 cases in the last 7 days
(Graph courtesy World Health Organisation) Centre lauds States contribution in popularising eSanjeevani, India’s telemedicine platform ndia’s states and Union Territories, Dr Harsh I Vardhan said, “The national telemedicine Health service has completed more than one lakh Minister 50 thousand tele-consultations enabling Dr Harsh Vardhan this month lauded the patient to doctor consultations from the contribution of States in popularising confines of their home. The government eSanjeevani (https://esanjeevani.in/). has started implementing the vision of The eSanjeevani platform has enabled Digital India through broadband and two types of telemedicine services mobile phones at the Ayushman Bharat - Doctor-to-Doctor (eSanjeevani) and - Health and Wellness Centres. With the Patient-to-Doctor (eSanjeevani OPD) cooperation of States and UTs, and a pool Tele-consultations. It was launched of selfless and medical practitioners and in November last year. Since then, specialists, have been able to provide tele-consultation by eSanjeevani and healthcare services through eSanjeevani. eSanjeevaniOPD have been implemented This has substantially augmented the by 23 States, which covers 75 percent of health infrastructure during the COVID the population. pandemic.” - TIN Bureau Addressing a review meeting with 10 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 High Commission Updates #VANDEBHARATMISSION Change of election date in New Zealand
rime Minister Jacinda Ardern election. In New Zealand, under the law Pannounced on 17th August to change once the Parliament is dissolved and if the the election date of 19th September to Election Commission believes that they 17th October and stressed that she will cannot hold a safe or fair election, they not change the election date again. The have the power to move the date. community outbreak of Covid-19 in All political parties obliviously Auckland forced the political parties to welcomed the government’s decision suspend their election campaigning and of changing the election dates and gave prompted calls to postpone the general indication of business as usual for them. election dates. Their will not be any relaunching of any Jacinda Ardern was under pressure election campaigning and no hoardings from her coalition partner NZ First’s will be brought down to put them back Winston Peters, opposition National later as these elections are being held in Party and other parties to make it a fair some very extraordinary circumstances. election. Hence it became inevitable to The parliament is scheduled to reconvene change the election date as most parties on 18th August to dissolve on 6th believed that due to Covid-19 restrictions September. The new last date to file in Auckland political parties would not nominations is now 13th September and get enough time for the electioneering. the advance voting will start from 3rd After the announcement of the new of October. With this postponement, all election date the Prime Minister the parties can now prepare to begin reiterated that Covid is the new normal in campaigning again and this time they will the world now and we will need to learn be confident that they have got enough to live with it. She further said that the time and resources to engage in a free and date she chose was her own decision and fair elections. that she would be sticking to the date While the demand of parties like of 17th October. Though, she said, she National Party, NZ First and others has reached out to few people to seek their been met by moving the date to enable views on this and the general view was them to do 100% electioneering, NZ’s that some form of delay was warranted. Health Minister Chris Hipkins says these As per reports, even the Election elections are still not going to be risk commission was planning a range of free elections. The Election Commission options since last few months including is prepared to conduct elections even in holding elections at country being at alert alert Level 2 if situation arise, but Minister Level 2 or even some parts of country says voter’s safety and wellbeing is being at alert Level 3. Prime Minister paramount for the government. All parties wanted to delay elections by two weeks seem to set now to take full advantage only, but Election Commission advised of prevalent situation in their own ways, her that any change of date will require while for Labour Party, elections held Election Commission at least four weeks’ earlier will be an advantage for them. time to make all necessary arrangements Elections will come and go but any like informing all voters about the party winning this election should to change and rebooking voting venues. prepared to move the mountain of Jacinda discussed with different political bringing the derailed economy back to parties and took both her coalition track. The new government will need to partners in confidence before making find new sources of employment and the announcement and said that while at the same time take care of general deciding to change the date, she wanted prosperity and wellbeing of the people of a sense of fairness and a sense of comfort New Zealand. for the voters that this will be a safe - Yugal Parashar
More details at Indian High Commision's Facebook page. Publisher - The Indian News NZ Limited Editor - Yugal Parashar, [email protected] - DDI: 09 218 5709 Associate Editor - Gaurav Sharma, [email protected] , +64 (0) 21 807 890 Designer - Vritti Parasher, [email protected] Marketing & PR - Yugal Parashar Printer - Horton Media, Auckland. Let us know Registered Office - 258 Balmoral Road, Sandringham, Auckland 1025, New Zealand. The Indian News is subject to NZ Media Council procedures. Any complaints must first Time: 10am - 6pm | Phone: +64 9 846 8080 | www.indiannews.co.nz be directed in writing, within one month of publication, to [email protected]. @indiannews.nz | @indiannews_nz | @indiannewz | @the indian news For all advertising inquiries, email at [email protected] If not staisfied with the response, the complaint may be refered to the Media Council For all editorial inquiries/news tips/letter to editor, email at [email protected] P O Box 10-879, The Terrace, Wellington 6143. Or use online complaint form at www. **Views expressed in this publication are not that of the publisher and the publisher is not responsible for any claims mediacouncil.org.nz made by the advertisers appearing in this publication. The views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not represent the views of the Indian news team. Images and illustrations in the publication are sourced from free Please include copies of the article and all correspondence with the publication. internet sources and are given credits when required. Copyright 2020. The Indian News NZ Limited. All rights reserved.
14 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 Independence Day CELEBRATIONS India Independence Day, August 15, celebrations across New Zealand Wellington
Picture courtesy Wellington Indian Association Christchurch
New Plymouth
Picture courtesy Hitesh Sharma Northland
Picture courtesy: New Plymouth Indian community
Southland
Picture courtesy: Southland Hindi School and Himani Mishra Picture courtesy: Surinder Tandon Pic courtesy: Northland Indian Association Pakistan Independence Day, August 14, celebrations across New Zealand Auckland Waikato and Hawke's Bay
Picture courtesy: Pakistan Association of Canterbury
Picture courtesy: Pakistan Association Wellington of New Zealand Picture courtesy Pakistan High Christchurch Picture courtesy: Pakistan Association of New Zealand Commission Wellington Independence Day CELEBRATIONS August 20 - August 26, 2020 I 15 Key takeaways from PM Modi’s Independence Day Speech
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Reliance Home Ventilation Systems Ltd Call us for your free in-home quote Unit No. 42/18 Lambie Drive, Manukau, Auckland www.relianceventilation.com 0800 787 111 16 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 From HOME #AatmaNirbharBharat Modi unveils the platform "Transparent Taxation – Jamia ranks top among central Honoring the Honest", in a big new push for tax reforms universities in govt's assessment report ast week, the Indian Prime Minister LNarendra Modi announced key tax reforms and unveiled the new platform n the Indian Ministry of Human on a tri-partite agreement between the "Transparent Taxation - Honouring the IResource and Development (HRD) University Grants Commission (UGC) Honest". This carries forward the journey assessment report out this week, Jamia and the HRD Ministry’s higher education of direct tax reforms in India, such as Millia Islami (JMI) University ranked top division. "faceless appeals" where taxpayers don't with 90 percent points in the assessment As reported by India Today, the have to visit offices to rectify errors. of 40 central universities. Arunachal evaluation is based on student intake "When we talk of faceless taxation, what Pradesh's Rajiv Gandhi University ranked across courses, percentage of female it means is that the taxpayer and the tax second with 83 percent points and Aligarh students, students who are not domicile officer have no interaction, as should Muslim University (AMU) ranked third of the state in which the university is be the case. There should be no contact with 78 percent points. The score is based based in, foreign students ratio, quality between the tax officer and taxpayer. of faculty, as well as This has potential to reduce interference, proportion of students and empowers the taxpayer," he said. placed through The taxpayer will now be given the campus recruitment respect they deserve. The taxpayer will faceless appeal is going to be applicable and qualifying top now be trusted, not looked at with doubt. from September 25. examinations such as The (tax) department will have to carry Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, GATE, NET etc. out the steps and processes in a time- who also attended the virtual event, - TIN Bureau bound manner, Modi added. noted the reforms "mark an important He also informed that the faceless step forward in providing a simple and assessment and taxpayer charter has transparent taxation regime for India". come into place from last week, while the - TIN Bureau Features of the Faceless • Central issuance of notices with Assessment Scheme: (as Document Identification No. (DIN) reported by The Indian • No physical interface, no need to visit Express) the income tax office • Team-based assessments and team- • Selection of a tax payer only through based review system using data analytics and AI • Draft assessment order in one city, • Abolition of territorial jurisdiction review in another city and finalisation in • Automated random allocation of cases third city
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If you would like more information or an obligation free quote, contact your local Licensed Installer today; Martin McCann Ph - 027 478 7880 | [email protected] | www.archgola.co.nz 18 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 Real ESTATE Market holding strong in record numbers despite COVID Return
espite what had been described as In Auckland, July sales were up 30.3% D“inevitable” Auckland was taken compared to July last year, which was also by surprise last Tuesday when the the best July month for sales in five years. government announced that COVID-19 For the rest of New Zealand (excluding has re-emerged in the community with Auckland) sales were up 21.5% compared no identifiable trace to the border. The to July last year, which was the best July response has been swift and we are for sales in 15 years. now locally in the midst of a two week The national median selling price was Lockdown at Level 3, with the rest of the $660,000 up 3.4% compared to June and nation at level 2. up 14.8% compared to July last year. In Despite having what feels like the rug Auckland the median price was flat at pulled from beneath us, the property $920,000, down just 0.1% compared to market has seen some welcomed news June, but still up 11.5% compared to July around the health of the market, and with last year. Loan deferrals being extended, there’s REINZ Chief Executive Bindi Norwell a strong chance the market will prevail addressed the recent return of Covid, that the RBNZ has agreed to help banks announcement expected later in the week. through this second wave. stating, "Even though anecdotally we've extend the mortgage repayment deferrals As always, an extension is not Here’s what to need to know: had a great start to August, the real they’ve been offering their customers permanent,” Orr said. Property Market Fights Off Economic question now is how long this can be since the end of March. It is ultimately a bank’s decision Uncertainty and Winter Blues sustained for, particularly now Auckland The decision came just after whether it enables a customer to defer the According to the latest figures form the has gone back into Level 3." community transmission was confirmed principle and interest repayments on their Real Estate Institute of New Zealand, it How the two weeks in lockdown affects again in the Auckland community, but Orr mortgage. seems that despite the traditional winter the Auckland market will remain to be urged people not downturn and dire economic predictions seen, but there is some security in these to flood banks For professional mortgage & insurance advice, speak from the pandemic, The housing market July figures moving forward. with inquiries, to our experienced brokers for a free consultation and no obligation quote today. Our service is performed strongly in July with sales Reserve Bank Agrees to Help Banks as the details completely FREE. Contact the team at: volumes up 25% compared to July last year Extend Mortgage Repayment Deferrals of what will be offered are still Professional Financial Solutions - and the highest number of sales made in The Reserve Bank (RBNZ) Governor 09 846 9934 or on our website - the month of July in the last five years. Adrian Orr confirmed last Wednesday being ironed www.professionalfinancial.co.nz out – with an Ravi Mehta REAL ESTATE
RESIDENTIAL / COMMERCIAL PROPERTY LISTINGS Bookings Are Available At Special Pricing Please Book in advance to secure your space Call: 09 846 8080 • E: [email protected] Real ESTATE August 20 - August 26, 2020 I 19 Conducting real estate business during COVID-19 Alert Level 3
Summary
• Talk to your agent and lawyer or • During alert level 3, buyers and conveyancer, about what to do if sellers can move house (including you have a transaction under way. between regions). • Property inspectors, valuers, • If you want to sell a tenanted engineers and tradespeople can property, you will be affected visit properties at alert level 3 if it by the new protections against is necessary, if they comply with terminations. For more public health and industry-specific information, visit the Tenancy guidance and if the property’s Services website. occupants agree. • You can find information about • Buyers and sellers who deferred what you can and can’t do during settlement during alert level 4 may alert level 3 on the COVID-19 now be able to settle if both parties website. agree.
Listing and marketing a property viewing. During the viewing Meeting clients and appraising a • Licensees should open all internal property doors before the viewing to minimise Where possible, appraise the property surface contact. Only the licensee using virtual methods instead of visiting is to touch doors or surfaces in the the property. home. If you conduct a virtual appraisal After the viewing at alert level 3, you should conduct a • The licensee must clean all surfaces physical appraisal at alert level 2. that the licensee (or anyone else) comes into contact with during the Signing the agency agreement viewing. The covid19.govt.nz website All discussions regarding the agency has information about cleaning agreement must be done remotely. surfaces
Marketing a property The transaction Professionals (for example, photographers, videographers or home Auctions stagers) who visit the property must Auctions can only take place by phone or comply with the health requirements online bidding. referred to above as well as any industry- specific or government guidance relevant Signing the sale and purchase to their role. If the property is tenanted, agreement the tenant's approval is required. All discussions about the sale and purchase agreement or offers received Open homes and viewings must take place by phone or video call. Open homes are not allowed at alert level Contracts must be signed 3. electronically. You can use contactless Prospective buyers should view a pickup or delivery for the contract if property online (for example, by video) absolutely necessary. wherever possible. If this isn’t possible or practical, private viewings are allowed Settlement at alert level 3 under the following conditions. Moving Preparing for the viewing House movers can work at alert level 3, so • Licensees should try to ensure that buyers and sellers can move house if they only buyers who are serious about follow government guidance. Moves can making an offer or are in the process occur between regions at level 3. of making an offer are given a private viewing. Other matters • There should be no more than two private viewings per day – allow Agency offices time to clean all surfaces between REA expects that most, if not all, viewings. licensees will be able to work primarily • Prospective buyers cannot travel from home. (All the given information is between regions for a private courtesy Real Estate Authority - REA) 20 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 SPORTS SPORTS Indian Minister of Sports Kiren North and South rugby match may shift Rijiju launches Fit India Youth Clubs to Wellington ew Zealand tomorrow and were due to assemble in to promote fitness among Indians NRugby (NZR) is Auckland on Monday next week. continuing to work "With Auckland at Alert Level 3 until his week, Indian Union Minister mass awareness about the importance of on contingency plans midnight on Wednesday 26 August, the Tof Youth and Sports Kiren Rijiju fitness, across the country. for the Steinlager squads will now assemble in Wellington to launched the Fit India Youth Club, on the The initiative brings together fitness North vs South prepare for the match. occasion of the 73rd Independence Day and voluntarism in a unique way in which match, with the "New Zealand Rugby is currently of the country. The Fit India Youth Club, a 7.5 million volunteers of Nehru Yuva squads named for the match to assemble working through the Government's part of the Fit India Movement envisioned Kendra Sangathan and National Service in Wellington to prepare for the game. normal exemption process to seek by Prime Minister Modi, endeavours to Scheme, along with Scouts and Guides, NZR General Manager Professional approval for the Auckland-based harness the power of youth to create NCC and other youth organisations will Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum players and management to assemble in come together to said NZR was still hoping that the eagerly- Wellington from next Monday. register as Fit India anticipated match could be played at "A final decision on the venue for Youth Clubs in every Eden Park, Auckland, on Saturday August the match will be made following the block in the country, 29, but was also making contingency Government's review of Covid-19 levels on under the aegis of plans to play the match at SKY Stadium in Friday," Lendrum said. a district unit and Wellington instead on the same day. In the event that the match can't go each member of the The squads for the Steinlager North v ahead in Auckland, ticket holders will be club will motivate South match will be announced at midday refunded. - TIN Bureau people from the community to Tuipulotu named North Island Foster, assistant coach John Plumtree take up fitness skipper: RNZ and Grant Fox have confirmed the two activities of 30 to squads for the fixture scheduled for 60 minutes in his or As per a report by Radio New August 29.” her daily routine. Zealand on Tuesday, “The stand out Another report by RNZ on Additionally, the performance of Blues skipper Patrick Wednesday noted, “The Auckland- clubs will organise Tuipulotu in Super Rugby Aotearoa based players involved in the North- and encourage has been recognised with All Blacks South rugby game may be left at home schools and local coach Ian Foster naming him captain with the Health Minister saying he bodies to organise of the North Island side for their match hasn't given any exemptions for them to one community against the South later this month. travel to Wellington.” fitness programme Fellow All Black lock Sam Whitelock So the situation and status of the every quarter. with lead the South Island side. The All fixture will get clearer as we near the - TIN Bureau Blacks selection trio of head coach Ian end of this week, it seems. Exercise at Alert Level 3 Exercise and recreation is an important part of maintaining our health and distance from other people wellbeing. However, there is a very high risk of transmission if we come into contact • mountain biking — if you are experienced and know the trail with others, touch common equipment or surfaces, or need rescuing or medical • hunting — you can hunt on private land, but not on public conservation land. care. You need to stay within your region and stick to your bubble. Overnight trips are not allowed. You may only hunt on foot — using quad bikes, off-road bikes, We need to keep doing our bit so that our gains in Alert Level 4 aren’t compromised. helicopters and other motorised vehicles is not allowed.
You can do activities that are local, safe, and do not involve interaction with other Boating, yachting and any team sports or training are not allowed. people outside your bubble. Now is not the time to take up new activities, or expose yourself or your bubble to The most important thing is to stay safe. Do low-risk activities, so you don’t need any risk. Use your common sense — stay local, stay safe. rescuing or medical care. You should also keep a 2 metre distance from people who aren’t in your bubble. Where you can exercise
You can do more activities at Alert Level 3 but only if you’re experienced and do Stick to your local area. For example, go to your nearest beach or park, not your them safely. These include: favourite one. Staying overnight at a bach or holiday home is not permitted.
• surfing — if you are an experienced surfer, you can go to your local break. If You should drive as short a distance as you can and still do the activity. you’re not experienced, don’t surf • fishing — if you want to go fishing you can do so from a wharf or the shore, but If you live on a regional boundary, this might mean travelling to a neighbouring don’t cast off the rocks or fish from a boat. Boating is not allowed region. This is fine as long as it’s still local and a close distance from your home. • tramping — is okay for day walks on easy trails. Remember to keep your SPORTS SPORTS August 20 - August 26, 2020 I 21 Farewell Mahi! Thank you for the memories…
He captained India in a record 322 ODIs with 110 wins. Only a few have played as many international games, but none has been the team’s wicket-keeper as well apart from Dhoni. MS, as he is fondly called, scored 10,773 one-day international (ODI) runs - the 11th highest tally in history. He also played 90 Tests, scoring 4,876 fter 16 years of fabulous international runs and guided India to the top of the ACricket career, India’s world cup world rankings before retiring from test Raina wraps up too in 2005, went on to feature in 226 ODIs. winning captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni cricket in 2014. The corkscrew on-drive or The left-hander cricketer brought made his mic-drop moment when he ‘helicopter’ shot was uniquely Dhoni's. No Minutes after Dhoni’s retirement in a revolution in India’s fielding put out to the world “…from 1929 hours other cricketer has been able to imitate it announcement, Suresh Raina capability. He claimed 167 catches in his consider me as retired (sic)” on August 15, successfully. followed suit with his own retirement international career. In a tweeter post 2020. Whether he features in this year’s Tributes announcement. The 33-year-old Raina noted, “It was nothing but lovely Indian Premier League T20 scheduled in Colleagues, friends, and fans from around represented India in more than 300 playing with you, @mahi7781. With my the UAE later this year remains to be seen. the world took to social media to show internationals in a career that spanned heart full of pride, I choose to join you Starting his work career as a ticket their love and respect for the former over 13 years. Raina, who made his on this journey. Thank you, India. Jai collector for the Indian Railways and captain. The current Indian captain, international debut against Sri Lanka Hi n d .” ending it as one of the best international Virat Kohli tweeted, “The world has cricketers, Dhoni will surely be seen achievements, I've seen the person. Former cricketer Chetan centuries. The domestic batsman in a remembered for his grit, perseverance, Thanks for everything skip. I tip my hat to Chauhan succumbs to first-class cricket career played Ranji and composure. you." COVID-19 Trophy for Maharashtra and then Delhi. Taking India to top in world rankings Sachin Tendulkar tweeted, “Your On his death, the Indian Prime Minister, Dhoni was last seen playing for Team contribution to Indian cricket has been Chetan Chauhan, the former India Narendra Modi tweeted, “Anguished India during the semi-final of the World immense, @msdhoni. Winning the 2011 team’s batsman and veteran cricket by his passing away. Condolences to Cup 2019 against New Zealand. He World Cup together has been the best administrator, died this week at the age his family and supporters. Om Shanti.” made his debut in 2004 and led the team - by Shivangi Bose, moment of my life.” of 73 due to COVID-19. In cricketing Chauhan, the two-time former BJP as the captain to win three major ICC an experienced media professional and career between 1969 and 1981, Chauhan Lok Sabha Member of Parliament was trophies — the T20 World Cup in 2007, writer, who recently moved to Auckland, played 40 Tests and seven ODIs. He Home Guard minister in the Uttar the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the ICC and has a special interest in script-writing scored 2,084 Test runs with 16 half- Pradesh cabinet. Champions Trophy in 2013. for brand videos. 22 I August 20 - August 26, 2020 LANGUAGES What's On? PM Modi greets Indians on the occasion of Malayalam New Year
n August 17, the Indian Prime Notably, Monday marked the beginning OMinister Narendra Modi greeted of Malayalam New Year ‘Chingam Indians on the occasion of Malayalam One’ with prayers, poojas and other New Year. Tweeting in both Malayalam celebrations across the Indian state of and English, the PM said, “As the month Kerala. Chingam, is the start of month- of Chingam commences, my greetings to long celebrations, which will end on everyone, especially my Malayali sisters September 16, and will see Kerala’s and brothers. I pray that the coming year biggest festival ‘Onam’ celebrated during brings with it success, good health and this time. - TIN Bureau prosperity for all.”
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270 Nelson Street, Onehunga, Auckland Ph: +64 9 475 5185 I www.cfrline.co.nz Contact: Monty Bhattacharya M: +64 21 032 7833 I E: [email protected] What's On? August 20 - August 26, 2020 I 23 What's On Gatherings and events at Alert Level 3 atherings of people create a very • Keep a 2 metre distance from people the couple, the celebrant, a couple of The Registrar-General’s team is offering Ghigh risk of transmitting COVID-19. who aren’t in your extended bubble. witnesses and a small number of family refunds to those who cannot use the At Alert Level 3, we are keeping tight • Wash your hands regularly up to a maximum of 10 people. Other marriage licence within 3 months of restrictions on gatherings. The only throughout the event. people can still attend through video getting it because of COVID-19. Email permitted gatherings are for: • Make a list of those who attended. conferencing. [email protected] for a refund. • funerals and tangihanga This will ensure contact tracing can Those who do attend must keep Funerals and tangihanga • wedding ceremonies, not receptions. happen if necessary. themselves and others safe. Keep a list of Funerals and tangihanga are acceptable Keeping these gatherings small means • Do not attend if you have COVID-19 those who attend, stay at least 2 meters gatherings at Alert Level 3 but are limited the risk of community transmission stays symptoms, or if you need to be apart and wash hands regularly. to 10 people or under. No food or drink low and our gains from Alert Level 4 isolation/quarantine for any reason. No food or drink should be consumed should be consumed at any gathering, aren’t compromised. Weddings and civil unions and there can be no reception. including funerals and tangihanga. Workplaces, education facilities, Wedding ceremonies are acceptable Advice about virtual weddings Advice for at risk people public transport and supermarkets are gatherings at Alert Level 3 but are limited Under the Marriage Act, a marriage can’t People at higher risk to severe illness not considered gatherings. to 10 people or under. happen virtually. The couple, celebrant from COVID-19 (for example those with If a gathering goes ahead, there are Wedding receptions and other and witnesses must be physically present underlying medical conditions) should additional steps the attendees must take celebrations are not allowed. in the same place. avoid gatherings at Alert Level 3. to ensure the gathering is safe. For those holding a wedding ceremony, How to get a refund for a marriage -from www.covid19.govt.nz You should: the limit means there can only be licence
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