NEW YORK • WASHINGTON D.C. • CHICAGO • ATLANTA • CALIFORNIA VOL 27, No. 1397 July 16, 2021 50¢ Periodical Postage BANDLA IN SPACE 3rd Indian American astronaut to reach space on board Virgin Galactic

Dilip Kumar, thespian of many parts Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti

Details on page 16 Indiaspora welcomes new Amb. to India

Details on page 17

China vows retaliation after US blacklist Samir Banerjee liftsWimbledon Details on page 12 Boys' title Biden cancels Details on page 11 time-limit student visas Seshamani appointed to Details on page 14 Medicare Details on page 14 CONTENTS

Sirisha Bandla Bollywood ------15 NEW YORK: Sirisha Bandla vaulted into space on Before the flight Branson signed himself dramati- Classifieds ------27 Sunday, 11 July on board VSS Unity 22 becoming the cally as Astronaut 001 and gave the Astronaut 004 Community Post ------17-23 fourth astronaut of Indian descent. rank to Bandla, 34. Cover/Top Stories ------5-8 Edit Page ------29 This week’s question The Virgin Galactic's spacecraft reached the 100- During the space flight, Bandla was scheduled to Horoscope ------26 U.P. 2-child norm a good km altitude that marks the entry into space after tak- conduct experiments designed by the US Immigration Post ------10-11 start for India? ing off from Spaceport America in New Mexico and government's pioneer space agency, NASA involving Info/Highlights ------4 Last week’s result returned to the base after a flight of about 90 min- plants in microgravity. Life Style ------16 OP-ED------28 Can Afghan forces stop utes. Bandla, the Virgin Galactic Vice President for Gov- advancement of the Taliban? Astronaut 004 Bandla accompanied by Virgin Ga- ernment Relations, is an astronautical engineer by TechBiz Post ------12-13 Travel & Hospitality Post ------30 YES 12% NO 88% lactic founder Richard Branson and two other training. Wellness Post ------14 crewmates and two pilots touched the space mark. Details on page 5 2 India Post July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com July 16, 2021 India Post 3 www.indiapost.com 4 India Post July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com

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Romesh & Sunita Japra Publishers To empower the Indian Diaspora and make their voice strong and effective in countries of their adoption. RJ Media conglomerate Rajesh Verma Co-Publisher offers a credible, professional and complete package of news, opinion, entertainment, networking and information. Vikram Paul President Krishan Sharma Mg Director & Joint Editor Naresh Sodhi General Manager HIGHLIGHTS Amit Saini IT Director Harpreet Singh Sub Editor Bollywood: Lifestyle: Ghanshyam Bisht Supervisor Graphics Hrithik-Deepika starrer 'Fighter' Dilip Kumar, thespian of many parts SAN FRANCISCO & "Fighter is a dream project and I am glad What makes Dilip Kumar stand apart SILICON VALLEY to have someone with Ajit's vision to be from other actors of his era is the differ- Vidya Sethuraman Bureau Chief partnering this with me," said director ent dimensions of his acting. His seam- Vijay Thapar CPRO & Advertising Anand. Kiran Pandey Director, WellnessPost 15 less synthesis of emotions. 16 Vinita Thapar Marketing Deepak Chhabra Promotions Ritu Maheshwari Director Promotions Sudesh Kumari Correspondent Cover Story: Techbiz:

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BANDLA IN SPACE China vows retaliation Riyaz Khan Marketing Consultant Sirisha Bandla vaulted into space on Sun- China's Commerce Ministry said the US Mrs Shashi Trivedi Bureau Chief day, 11 July on board Virgin Galactic's move constituted suppression of Chi- spacecraft VSS Unity 22 becoming the nese enterprises and breach of Int'l eco- CHICAGO Ramesh Soparawala Resident Editor fourth astronaut of Indian descent. 5 nomic and trade rules. 12 A Q Siddiqui Correspondent

ST. LOUIS Community: Travel: Ashwin Patel Correspondent Indiaspora Garcetti as Ambassador Cherrapunji NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY Pinky Kaur Bureau Chief Indiaspora activists, extended whole- Although Mawsynram is now the wet- Srirekha N. Chakravarty Correspondent hearted welcome to President Biden test place on earth, Cherrapunji still Sukhvinder Saini Circulation nomination of LA Mayor Garcetti as U.S. holds the record for the highest re- Ambassador to India. corded rainfall in a calendar year. BOSTON 17 30 Gope Gidwani Bureau Chief

CANADA Immigration: Wellness: Paras Nehra Correspondent Time-limit student visas Seshamani appointed to Medicare NEW DELHI US President Joe Biden's administration Indian-American health policy expert Dr. Lakshay Sharma Web Developer announced it is cancelling a proposal by Meena Seshamani has been appointed MUMBAI his predecessor Donald Trump to limit as the Director of the US Center for Nidhi Soparawala Correspondent student visas to a four-year term. 10 Medicare. 14 Frank Fernandes Correspondent

VADODARA, GUJARAT INFO-CENTER Vaidehi Patel Correspondent CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS Priyanka Shah Correspondent 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538 PUNJAB Tel: 510-396-9140 • Fax: 510-790-2806 • e-mail: [email protected] Raman Nehra Bureau Chief E-SUBSCRIPTION& EDITORIAL: Vidya Sethuraman: Tel: 510-491-4867 • e-mail: [email protected] Jaswant Singh Gandam Correspondent ADVERTISEMENT: Naresh Sodhi: Tel: 510-938-8667 • e-mail: [email protected] Graphics Inquiry: E-mail: [email protected] India Post Copyright©1994 RJ Media Inc, ISSN 1084-3868, is published INDIA CORPORATE OFFICE weekly for $30 for 52 issues yearly by India Post, 1860 Mowry Ave Ste 200, 230-A, 3rd Floor, Jin Kushal Suri Complex (Opp NDSE Part-II) New Delhi - 110049 • Tel: 11-26257769 • E-mail:[email protected] Fremont, CA 94538-1730. Application For advertisement rates call the office nearest to you: to mail at Periodicals postage prices is pending at Fremont, California and additional mailing offices. SAN FRANCISCO & SILICON VALLEY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHICAGO 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538 Riyaz Khan: 562- 881-5342 • e-mail: 2543 W Devon Ave Chicago IL 60659 POSTMASTER: Send address changes Naresh Sodhi: 510-938-8667 • e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 773-973-7394 • e-mail: [email protected] to India Post, 1860 Mowry Ave Ste 200, [email protected] LOS ANGELES Fremont, CA 94538-1730. Vidya Sethuraman: 510-491-4867 • e-mail: NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY [email protected] 16224 Alpine Pl. La Mirada, CA 90638 DISCLAIMER Tel: 562-441-5511, [email protected] Tel: 510-938-8667 • e-mail: [email protected] India Post assumes all advertisers to be reliable and responsible for all liability For editorial, contact: [email protected] for their claimers July 16, 2021 Cover/Top Stories India Post 5 www.indiapost.com BANDLA IN SPACE 3rd Indian American astronaut to reach space on board Virgin Galactic NEW YORK: Sirisha Bandla vaulted into space on Sunday, 11 July on board VSS Unity 22 becoming the fourth astronaut of Indian descent. The Virgin Galactic's spacecraft reached the 100-km altitude that marks the entry into space after taking off from Spaceport America in New Mexico and returned to the base after a flight of about 90 minutes. Astronaut 004 Bandla accompanied by Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson and two other crewmates and two pilots touched the space mark. Before the flight Branson signed him- self dramatically as Astronaut 001 and gave the Astronaut 004 rank to Bandla, 34. During the space flight, Bandla was scheduled to conduct experiments de- signed by the US government's pioneer space agency, NASA involving plants in microgravity. Bandla, the Virgin Galactic Vice Presi- dent for Government Relations, is an as- Members of the Virgin Galactic Unity22 crew Photo EPA-EFE tronautical engineer by training. Before her flight, she said on an inter- astronaut instructor and Colin Bennett, first 15.5 km on its way to space before multi-billion-dollar private space busi- view on a Virgin Galactic broadcast that the lead operations engineer which was being launched for the final leg. ness that would range from tourism and her adventure was an "incredible oppor- piloted by former Royal Air Force test The launch was delayed by about 90 research to commercial and govern- tunity to get people from different back- pilot Dave Mackay and former NASA minutes because stormy weather over- ment satellite deployment. grounds, different geographies and dif- Space Shuttle Commander Michael night delayed the flight preparations. Characteristic of a Branson enter- ferent communities into space". Masucci. Bandla was be the third Indian prise, the spaceflight had the pizazz of The others on the VSS Unity flight The spacecraft was carried by a twin- American in space after Kalpana Chawla show business and advertising for com- were Beth Moses, Virgin Galactic's chief bodied carrier aircraft, VMS Eve, for the and Sunita Pandya Williams and the panies involved in the project. fourth person of Indian descent -- the Grammy-winning musician Khaled first being Rakesh Sharma, who flew on performed for the flight. The host of a a Soviet spacecraft. light TV show, Stephen Colbert emceed But unlike them, Bandla did not go the start of the broadcast by Virgin Ga- into orbit and her flight was a short one lactic.

Before her flight, she said on an interview on a Virgin Galactic broadcast that her adventure was an "incredible opportunity to get people from different backgrounds, different geographies and different communities into space"

to demonstrate the capability of Another Indian American, Raj Chari, is Branson's space program, a break- in the US astronaut program and is through in the commercialization of scheduled to command a flight later space travel by private entrepreneurs. this year. Sharma flew aboard the Soviet Branson beat his business rival, Ama- Soyuz spacecraft in 1984. zon founder Jeff Bezos, who is set to Chawla, who was born in Karnal, first take off on July 20 on board his space flew into space in 1997 on Space Shuttle company Blue Origin's spacecraft. Columbia but died on her second flight It was a space race between the in 2001 when the spacecraft burned on maverick British billionaire, the global re-entry into the earth's atmosphere. American entrepreneur Bezos and Elon Williams, a US Navy pilot, was a com- An artist shows respect to an Andhra Pradesh-born astronaut Sirisha Bandla who is all set to take off Musk, the developer of the Tesla elec- mander of Expedition 33 to the Space ANI Photo into space on the 11th of July aboard Virgin Galactic's Spaceflight 'Unity 22' at Lalbag. tric vehicle, vying for domination of the Station. IANS 6 India Post Top Stories July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com

Honored to accept nomination to serve as Blinken says US-Philippines US ambassador to India: LA Mayor Garcetti defense treaty covers Chinese attack in South China Sea WASHINGTON: Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, the world, Garcetti said. nominated by US President Joe Biden as the country's We can't get our climate goals without India hitting WASHINGTON DC: The United States has reaf- ambassador to India, has said that he is honored to its climate goals. We can't see the economy truly re- firmed its commitment to defend the Philippines accept the nomination and will bring the same energy, opened to international commerce and tourism until against a Chinese attack in the South China Sea commitment and love with which he served the COVID is under control, Garcetti said. We're all very (SCS), under their Mutual Defense Treaty. sprawling city to his new role in the world's largest closely connected, he told the Times. On the fifth anniversary of an international rul- democracy. ing dismissing China's claims in the SCS, Secretary If confirmed by the Senate, of State Antony Blinken has said nowhere is the Garcetti, 50, would replace Kenneth rules-based maritime order under greater threat Juster, who served as the US Ambas- than in the South China Sea. Tensions have re- sador to India during the Trump ad- mained high since March between the Philip- ministration. pines and China, "Today, the President announced after hundreds of that I am his nominee to serve as US Chinese boats Ambassador to India. I am honored to were spotted in accept his nomination to serve in this the disputed por- role," Garcetti, a Democrat, said in a tions of the hotly statement on Friday (9 July), soon af- contested South ter Biden announced his nomination. China Sea. Announcing the nomination along The top US dip- with several other ambassadors, the Antony Blinken lomat said China White House said Eric M. Garcetti has continues to co- been the Mayor of the City of Los An- erce and intimidate Southeast Asian coastal geles since 2013, following 12 years states, threatening freedom of navigation in this as a member of the City Council, in- critical global throughway. cluding six as Council President. "We also reaffirm that an armed attack on Phil- Biden also nominated Denise Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti ippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in Campbell Bauer as his envoy to Mo- the South China Sea would invoke US mutual de- naco; Peter D. Haas to Bangladesh; and Bernadette M. As Mayor of California's largest city and America's fense commitments under Article IV of the 1951 Meehan as his top diplomat to Chile. second-largest city, Garcetti oversees the busiest con- US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," the state- "I love Los Angeles and will always be an Angeleno. tainer port in the Western Hemisphere, the largest ment said. I want you to know that every day I am your Mayor, I municipal utility in the country, and one of the busiest Blinken further called on China to abide by its will continue to lead this city like it is my first day on airports in the world. He led the city's successful bid obligations under international law and cease its the job, with passion, focus, and determination," to return the 2028 summer Olympic Games to Ameri- provocative behavior. "We call on the PRC to abide Garcetti said in a statement. can soil for the first time in three decades. by its obligations under international law, cease "I have committed my life to service as an activist, Garcetti co-founded Climate Mayors and led more its provocative behavior, and take steps to reas- as a teacher, as a naval officer, as a public servant, and than 400 US mayors to adopt the Paris Climate agree- sure the inter- if confirmed, next as an ambassador. Part of that com- ment. He is the current Chair of C40 Cities a network ‘We also reaffirm that national com- mitment means that when your nation calls, you an- of 97 of the world's biggest cities taking bold climate an armed attack on munity that it is swer that call," he said. action and has led the organization's engagement and committed to expansion in India as well Philippine armed forces, the rules-based "I have committed my life to service as an activist, as a teacher, as C40's global response public vessels, or air- maritime order as a naval officer, as a public servant, and if confirmed, next as to the COVID pandemic that respects through the sharing of craft in the South China the rights of all an ambassador. Part of that commitment means that when best practices and re- Sea would invoke US countries, big your nation calls, you answer that call," he said sources. and small," it During 12 years as an mutual defense added. Intelligence Officer in the commitments’ China claims "And should I be confirmed, I'll bring this same en- U.S. Navy Reserve Component, Garcetti served under sovereignty ergy, commitment, and love for this city to my new the Commander, US Pacific Fleet and the Defense In- over almost the role and will forge partnerships and connections that telligence Agency, retiring in 2017 as a Lieutenant. entire South China Sea and has overlapping terri- will help Los Angeles," Garcetti, who is considered to A Rhodes scholar, he studied at Queen's College, torial claims with Brunei, Malaysia, the Philip- be a close ally of President Biden, said. Oxford and the London School of Economics and Po- pines, Vietnam and Taiwan. Garcetti, in an interview to the Los Angeles Times, litical Science. Garcetti was selected as an inaugural Even five years after an international arbitra- said the Biden administration raised the idea of the Asia 21 Fellow of the Asia Society, and taught at Occi- tion court in The Hague ruled that the majority of India post in the early spring. The White House called dental College's Department of Diplomacy and World China's maritime claims in the SCS had no legal him 9 July to finalize his nomination, he said. Affairs, as well as at the University of Southern basis, Beijing's behavior has not been altered He has travelled several times to India, most re- California's School of International Relations. much. According to the Asia Maritime Transpar- cently as a councilman. In college, he spent a year Commenting on his nomination, the Los Angeles ency Initiative, it continues to act largely unre- studying Hindi and Urdu. It's the largest democracy in Times wrote that the ambassadorship in President strained in one of the world's busiest shipping the world, soon to be the most populous country in Biden's administration gives Garcetti a new career routes. ANI the world, one of the top handful of superpowers in path, away from electoral politics. PTI July 16, 2021 Top Stories India Post 7 www.indiapost.com

Indian-origin Samir Banerjee lifts Pakistan 'cannot dictate to us', says Wimbledon boys' singles title Taliban spokesperson LONDON: Indo-American tennis player Samir Kanad accompanied him. Banerjee lifted the Wimbledon boys' singles title on "My uncle is here, he's not technically a tennis ISLAMABAD: Amid the uncertainty surround- Sunday 11 July, a remarkable triumph for the young- coach, but if these results keep happening then I ing the peace prospect in Afghanistan ahead of should start travelling with him more," he fast approaching deadline of US troop's with- said jokingly. drawal, Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen has As Lilov's backhand sailed over the said Pakistan is welcome to help the group arrive baseline on match-point, Banerjee dropped at a negotiated settlement but it "cannot dictate his racquet, put both his hands on his head in to us or impose its views on us." disbelief as if to say that this was not what he During an interview with Pakistan's Geo News expected to do but still accomplished. last weekend, Shaheen said, "They can help us in "Remember the name - Samir Banerjee. the peace process but can't dictate to us or im- The American wins his first junior Grand Slam pose their views. And this is against international singles title by beating Victor Lilov in the principles." Over the Taliban's demand for an Is- boys' singles final," the official twitter handle lamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the spokesperson of the Championships posted. said having an emirate is "a legitimate right of Legendary Indian tennis player Vijay the people of Afghanistan". Amritraj congratulated Banerjee. "We say nothing about other governments. "Wonderful win for Indian American 17 yr They should not old Samir Banerjee in the boys singles at impose their “We have an agenda Wimbledon 2021. Wish him well for a great view," he said, future," the 67-year old who reached singles reiterating: for an Islamic Emirate. quarterfinals at Wimbledon and US Open "This is not in tweeted. accordance And so we put it on Banerjee's father Kunal was born in Assam, with interna- the table and so did and his mother Usha was brought up in tional prin- Andhra Pradesh before both migrated to the ciples either." they (put their agenda USA in the mid-1980s and got married there. Answering a of) democracy. But we The youngster, reportedly, will take a question if the break from the tour to enroll for a degree in group is ready do not say that our either economics or political science at the to accept that agenda must be Samir Banerjee Columbia University in the coming months. electoral de- While Banerjee's victory is a testament to mocracy, imposed" ster who was testing his skills in a Grand Slam for only the system that US Tennis Association has put in place, Shaheen said: the second time in his fledgling career. India has been struggling to field a worthy contender "We have an agenda for an Islamic Emirate. And All of 17, the player from New Jersey just wanted to at junior Grand Slams for some time now. so we put it on the table and so did they (put win a match at the biggest stage in the junior circuit, Due to the lack of a robust domestic circuit and not their agenda of) democracy. But we do not say but little did he know that he would be the last boy having enough competitions at home to earn world- that our agenda must be imposed." standing at the hallowed grass courts. ranking points, India has been struggling to create the These remarks come as Joe Biden administra- And that too when he did not have his coach Carlos next crop of youngsters. tion is just a few weeks away from exiting Af- Esteban with him since his ghanistan. Meanwhile, the Taliban has continued wife had reportedly All of 17, the player from New Jersey just wanted to with its offensive and claimed to have captured tested positive for COVID- win a match at the biggest stage in the junior circuit, but little 85 per cent of the territory in the country. 19. Demonstrating the fear of a civil war in Af- Up against compatriot did he know that he would be the last boy standing ghanistan, Pakistan's National Security Adviser Victor Lilov, the teenager at the hallowed grass courts (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf has painted a bleak pic- won 7-5 6-3 in the summit ture of its neighboring country. During a Senate clash that lasted one hour Foreign Affairs Committee meeting, the Pak NSA 22 minutes. He broke his rival thrice and dropped Yuki Bhambri was the last Indian to win a junior has said which may result in the Taliban slipping serve only once in the facile triumph. singles title when he triumphed at the Australian into Pakistan as refugees, The Express Tribune re- "It's going to be amazing, this trophy is going to be Open in 2009 while Sumit Nagal won the Wimbledon ported. my centerpiece, I'm going to look at this and be in- boys' doubles event in 2015 with Vietnam's Ly Hoang Last week, Afghanistan Ambassador to India spired to keep playing and hopefully come back here Nam. Farid Mamundzay told ANI that the situation as a pro," he was quoted as saying by the Wimbledon Ramanathan Krishnan was the first Indian to win a since April 21 has been very dire and challeng- website. junior major when he won the 1954 Junior Wimbledon ing. "I really just wanted to win a round, I didn't expect championship. "Taliban have managed to capture many cen- this. I had a tough French Open, lost to a good player. His son Ramesh Krishnan won the 1970 junior ters of the districts. Remember capturing the "So here I just wanted to keep my expectations low Wimbledon and junior French Open titles while entire district is a very difficult task. What Taliban so that if I passed them, then I'd be happy. But this was Leander Paes won the 1990 junior Wimbledon and jun- do they capture main center building so they are way beyond my wildest dreams," he said to a round of ior US Open. not fully in control of districts per se but they cap- applause from the crowd. Paes was also a runner-up at the junior Australian tured the capital." ANI Since the coach was unavailable, Banerjee 's uncle Open. PTI 8 India Post Top Stories July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com Indian national jailed for breaching COVID-19 restrictions in Singapore

SINGAPORE: A 26-year-old Indian national was sen- situation back in India, Dr Phang's medical report the dorm. But he again left for the airport on June 16. tenced to nine months' jail on Monday (12 July) for try- stated. When in IMH, Balachandran reported hearing He wanted to leave Singapore because he knew that ing to leave Singapore during the height of the voices instructing him to commit suicide and which there were many dormitory residents who were in- COVID-19 pandemic when he had been asked to wait made it difficult for him to control his actions. fected, the court heard. in a hospital for the results of his swab test. He is now on a reduced dosage of antipsychotic He took a taxi to the airport at around 5.50am that Balachandran Parthiban's test came positive for medication as he is clinically well, the psychiatrist day with the intention of buying a flight ticket to In- COVID-19 after he was picked up by the police at added. Deputy Public Prosecutor Norman Yew sought dia, but was again rejected. PTI Changi Airport and escorted back to Singapore Gen- 10 months' jail for Balachandran, while Wong asked for eral Hospital (SGH). six-and-a-half months' jail. He had taken public transport there, tried unsuc- In sentencing, District Judge Ronald Gwee took into cessfully to buy a ticket to India, and loitered at Termi- consideration two other charges of exposing others Nepal signs $1.3 BN mega deal nal 1 of the Changi Airport for about four hours, re- to the risk of infection and of using insulting words with India's SJVN to develop 679 MW ported TODAY newspaper. towards a health officer. Lower Arun Hydropower project The foreign worker later breached an isolation or- For each charge of breaking COVID-19 laws, der and went to the airport again in another bid to fly Balachandran could have been jailed for up to six KATHMANDU: Nepal has signed a USD 1.3 bil- back home. months or fined up to SGD10,000, or both. lion deal with India's hydro power major Satluj Jal After he pleaded guilty in May to one charge each The court earlier heard that Balachandran was a Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) to develop a 679-megawatt of exposing others to the risk of COVID-19 and leaving resident of the Jurong Penjuru dormitory for foreign hydropower project in eastern Nepal, the second an isolation area without permission, his pro bono law- workers, which had been gazetted as an isolation area mega venture undertaken by India in the neigh- yer Cory Wong asked for him to be remanded in the on April 18 last year to prevent the spread of the boring Himalayan nation. Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for psychiatric evalua- coronavirus. The single largest foreign investment project, tion. On the morning of May 23, he reported sick at his based on the 2017 cost estimates, is located be- Following a nearly four-week stay in IMH, dormitory and complained of fever and sore throat. tween Sankhuwasabha and Bhojpur districts in Balachandran was diagnosed with adjustment disor- He was then taken to SGH by ambulance to un- eastern Nepal, according to a press release is- der with mixed disturbance of emotions and conduct dergo a COVID-19 swab test at around 12.45pm. sued by the Investment Board Nepal. About an hour later, he The 679-megawatt Lower Arun Hydropower was transferred to the After he pleaded guilty in May to one charge each of project is the second mega project undertaken hospital's "fever screen- by India after the USD 1.04 billion 900-MW Arun- exposing others to the risk of COVID-19 and leaving an isolation ing area" at SGH's multi- 3 hydroelectric story car park and re- area without permission, his pro bono lawyer Cory Wong asked project. peatedly told to wait for A memoran- The 679-megawatt for him to be remanded in the Institute of Mental Health his swab test results. dum of under- However, he left the (IMH) for psychiatric evaluation standing for Lower Arun car park at around 5.35 the project was pm without giving notice Hydropower project is signed by the around the time of his offences in May last year. because he wanted to buy a flight ticket back to India Investment the second mega Dr Stephen Phang found that the minor mental dis- at Changi Airport. He walked 2.1-km before taking a Board of Nepal order did not cause him to abdicate his capacity to public bus and taxi. Chief Executive project undertaken by assume mental responsibility for his actions. His swab test results later showed that he was a Officer, Sushil He still retained the mental capacity to differenti- confirmed COVID-19 case. India after the USD Bhatta and ate right from wrong and was not of unsound mind, At the airport, he tried to buy his flight ticket, but SJVN Chairman the psychiatrist added. to no avail, and was later picked up by the police after 1.04 billion 900-MW and Managing Nevertheless, his subsequent psychiatric history they found him loitering at Terminal 1. They escorted Director, Nand Arun-3 hydroelectric showed that he later developed full-blown him back to SGH. Balachandran completed his period Lal Sharma in schizophreniform psychosis, which was likely to have of isolation in the hospital on June 8 last year and was project Kathmandu on been reactive to, and precipitated by the ongoing diagnosed to be no longer infectious. He went back 11 July, accord- stress of being held under conditions of security, to- to the dormitory, was ordered to serve another 14 ing to the Investment Board Nepal. gether with his ongoing concerns about his family days' leave of absence and was not allowed to leave According to the board, the developer needs to complete the detailed project report of the project and submit it for approval at the board Keralite Sohan Roy to receive Better World Fund Unity Award within two years from the agreement date. THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sohan Roy, a Keralite ma- The list of previous years' award winners include The project will be developed under the build, rine professional based in the United Arab Emirates the Prince of Monaco Albert II; Hollywood actors like own, operate and transfer (BOOT) model. (UAE), will receive the prestigious Better World Fund Forest Whitaker and Sharon Stone; and German film- Speaking as the chief guest during the sign- Unity Award that spreads the message of responsible maker Wim Wenders ing in ceremony, Nepal Finance Minister Bishnu mining across the globe. Roy will become the first Indian to be honored with Prasad Paudel expressed commitment to extend Roy will get this award for directing the documen- the award. necessary cooperation and support on behalf of tary "Black Sand", which is based on environmental Roy is known for his directorial Hollywood movie the government to expedite and fast-track the degradation and unscientific mining methods "DAM 999" which contended for the 2011 Oscars and development of the project. PTI adopted in Alappuzha's Alappad region. received five selections in three categories. IANS July 16, 2021 India Post 9 www.indiapost.com

New York AIRWING TRAVELS INC. New Jersey (Hicksville) (Iselin) Est. 1991 Tel: (516) 931 4600 Toll Free: (866) 532 3413 Tel: (732) 658 5450 Lowest Fares / Confirmed Seats to INDIA & Other Destinations Worldwide Save upto 40% on First and Business Class OPEN 7 DAYS -CCall or Email : [email protected] In Brief It said that it “is concerned that the Nepal to resume regular visa services changes proposed for foreign residents Immigration unnecessarily impede KATHMANDU: Nepal is set to access to immigration resume regular visa services for foreigners residing in the benefits." country from 9 July after sus- 10 India Post www.indiapost.com July 16, 2021 pending them for over a month due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Department of Immigra- tion said. Biden cancels Trump proposal The Department said that it had decided to restart all the visa services suspended since May 20 by strictly following to time-limit student visas the health and security proto- cols of the government, re- NEW YORK: US President Joe ies and journalists on I visas ing their visas. order to continue their studies ports Xinhua news agency. Biden's administration has an- while keeping their jobs. The DHS reported that those in the US," Inside Higher Edu- "With the resumption of the nounced it is cancelling a pro- If the changes had gone opposing the time limit said, cation reported. regular visa services, an esti- posal by his predecessor through, they would have had "Would significantly burden The businesses that wrote in mated 1,000 to 1,100 foreign Donald Trump to limit student to apply to the Citizenship and the foreign students, ex- against the proposal said that passport holders residing in visas to a four-year term for Immigration Service for exten- change scholars, (and) foreign "many noncitizens may not be Nepal, who failed to renew or scholars from India and most able to apply for an extension regulate their visas due to the other countries. of stay or have it approved in a lockdown, will benefit from it," The Department of Home- timely fashion, thereby delay- Narayan Prasad Bhattarai, the land Security (DHS) published ing the possible start dates of department's director general, the decision last week and said employees and/or cause them told Xinhua. that it would also drop the pro- to lose potential job candi- The move comes after Nepal posed limits on visa for journal- dates," the DHS added. has green lighted limited re- ists. The DHS, however, said that sumption of international and The DHS said that it had re- it still supports the goal of the domestic flights from July 1 ceived about 32,000 public proposal, which was "to protect with less coronavirus infec- comments, of which 99 per the integrity of programs that tions reported and the restric- cent were critical of the pro- admit nonimmigrants in the F, J, tive measures eased over the posal made by the Trump ad- and I" visa categories and past two weeks. ministration last September would analyze it while ensuring Many foreign passport hold- and, therefore, it was with- that it conformed to Biden's ex- ers in Nepal could not have drawing the proposed ecutive order issued in February their visas regulated, as they changes. US President Joe Biden on "restoring faith in our legal could not reach the immigra- It said that it "is concerned immigration systems." tion offices amid a lockdown that the changes proposed un- sions or leave the country and media representatives" and Typically, students in PhD or enforced since late April to necessarily impede access to apply to the Customs and Bor- "impose exorbitant costs." research programs or pursuing contain a second wave of the immigration benefits." der Protection agency for re- "Higher education groups other advanced degrees re- epidemic. According to the no- By keeping the current visa admission. were alarmed by the plan to quire more than four years. tice, foreigners with valid visas regulations, students on F and The Trump administration change the policy, which, they Students transitioning to of Nepal until April 28 and who J visas would be able to keep proposal would have further argued, would create uncer- practical training programs are departing from Nepal by their visas in the US as long as reduced the limits on student tainty and confusion for stu- could also be affected, impact- July 8. IANS they are continuing their stud- visas to two years for certain dents who would have to navi- ing businesses that rely on for- countries a large number of gate a burdensome and costly eign students to power their whose citizens were overstay- new reapplication process in development. IANS PRADEEP ROY-SINGH B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Nothing in CECA implies that Indians get Attorney-at-Law Former Assistant State’s Attorney jobs in Singapore unconditionally: Minister

1 Civil & Criminal Litigation SINGAPORE: There is "noth- paves the way for Indian na- Contrary to claims made by 1 Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI ing" in the Singapore-India tionals to take up jobs in this the Opposition Progress 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc. Comprehensive Economic Co- country. Singapore Party (PSP), 1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties operation Agreement (CECA), Health Minister Ong Ye Singapore's ability to impose re- which implies that the city- Kung made a ministerial state- quirements for immigration and http://www.proy-singh.com state must let in professionals ment in Parliament, aimed at work passes has never been in 2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, from India unconditionally, a dispelling false allegations sur- question in CECA or any other senior minister told Parlia- rounding CECA and laying out free trade agreements (FTAs) Chicago, IL 60659 Tel: 773-381-1820 ment, rejecting allegations by the importance of trade pacts that the country has signed, he the Opposition that the pact for Singapore. told the lawmakers. PTI July 16, 2021 Immigration Post India Post 11 www.indiapost.com Indian student applications for UK on rise despite pandemic constraints

LONDON: New data released re- tumn and have worked hard to be flex- cently from the UK's centralized higher ible, enabling students to progress to education application system shows a their next level of study. Though not ev- 30 per cent increase in the number of ery student will find themselves in the undergraduate applications from In- position they had initially hoped for, dian students to study at British univer- they still have a wide range of options, sities, despite the ongoing pandemic including undergraduate courses and related travel constraints. apprenticeships, she said. The Universities and Colleges Admis- The increase may be attributed to sions Service (UCAS) analysis for the pe- students looking to make the most of riod up to the June 30 deadline for ap- the UK's new Graduate route, which plications for the new academic year opened for applications last week. It found that 9,930 applications were will allow Indian and other overseas stu- made by Indian students, up from last dents to stay to work in the UK after year's 7,640 applications. their degree for two or three years, de- The whole university community has pending on the nature of their course. shown incredible resilience this year. It The UK Home Office has also extended is really encouraging to see Indian stu- the deadline for students to be physically dents continue to make plans to study India remains on the UK's red list for dents starting university in the UK later this present in the country to be eligible for in the UK and we look forward to wel- international travel, which requires any year as it logged overall growth of 14 per the new post-study work visa, to Septem- coming students safely, said Vivienne students with a valid visa to quarantine cent in undergraduate UK university ap- ber this year for the 2020-21 cohort. Stu- Stern, Director of Universities UK Inter- at a government-approved hotel for 10 plications from students globally. dents beginning their course later this national (UUKi), which represents over days on arrival in the country. But all in- Today's numbers show the clear de- year or early next year will need to be in 140 UK universities. ternational students who arrive in the mand for undergraduate study and ap- the UK by April 6 next year. Thanks to UK government policy and UK will be able to receive their COVID- prenticeships is growing, rising signifi- UUKi advised students holding an of- the support structures that UK universi- 19 vaccination from the National Health cantly during the pandemic, said UCAS fer for a UK university this year to con- ties have put in place, we can prepare Service (NHS), free of charge. Chief Executive Clare Marchant. tact their chosen university to find out for the start of term with the flexibility UCAS is predicting that increases in ap- Universities are ready to welcome more about arrivals and plans for Sep- students will welcome, she said. plications will see a record number of stu- more students onto courses this au- tember. PTI

Mehul Choksi moves Dominica high court to quash proceedings against him

NEW DELHI: Alleging that his arrest Chief of Police in Roseau, and investi- high court that the decision to charge Choksi claimed that he had nar- in Dominica for illegal entry was "dic- gating officer Sergeant Alleyne to him for illegal entry was in violation of rated his ordeal to the Dominican po- tated" by representatives of the In- charge him for illegal entry was "not a law and accordingly, null and void, Car- lice but they did not launch any in- dian government, absconding product of their independent judge- ibbean media outlet Nature Isle News vestigation into his allegations. diamantaire Mehul Choksi has filed a ment". reported. "The arrest and prosecution of the case in the high court of Roseau, seek- applicant is an abuse of ing to quash the proceedings against The case was filed against the process of the him, local media there reported. the immigration minister court because the po- The case was filed against the im- of the Caribbean nation, lice who charged the migration minister of the Caribbean its police chief and the applicant participated nation, its police chief and the inves- in and/or colluded tigating officer of the case. investigating officer of the with the applicant's Choksi, who went missing from case. Choksi, who went kidnappers in and/or Antigua and Barbuda where he had missing from Antigua and condoned the forced been living since 2018 after his es- Barbuda where he had entry of the applicant cape from India, was arrested on May been living since 2018 into Dominica," he 23 in neighboring Dominica for illegal said. entry. He was declared a prohibited after his escape from India, His lawyers last was arrested on May 23 immigrant by the Ministry of Immi- Mehul Choksi week told the magis- gration in Dominica. trate court where his The 62-year-old diamantaire "...they allowed themselves to be Choksi said he is a citizen of Antigua case of illegal entry is going on that wanted in connection with a Rs dictated by third parties, representa- and Barbuda, where he has challenged they have filed the plea in the high 13,500-crore scam in the Punjab Na- tives of the Indian government...," a move to extradite him. court. Choksi has sought a perma- tional Bank has approached the high Choksi alleged. He claimed that he was kidnapped nent order staying the criminal court in Dominica, alleging that the Seeking to quash the proceedings from Antigua and Barbuda and forcibly charge" brought against him for ille- decision of Lincoln Corbette, Acting against him, Choksi pleaded before the brought to Dominica by Indian men. gal entry. PTI Tech News TikTok will automate video removals for nudity, violence India should BEIJING: Short video-making app TikTok has said it will use au- crackdown on tomation to detect and remove Twitter: Survey TechBiz many of the videos that violate its policies. NEW DELHI: India should For the past year, the service has been testing and tweaking crack down on Twitter for not systems to find and take down such content. It will roll out those complying with Indian laws, as systems in the US and Canada over the next few weeks, Engadget per the IANS CVoter Live 12 India Post www.indiapost.com July 16, 2021 reported. IANS Tracker. A huge majority of 70.81 per cent respondents said that China vows retaliation after US India should crack down on Twitter while 18.65 per cent said there should not be a crackdown. blacklists companies Newly appointed Union In- BEIJING: China has said it will formation Technology Minister take necessary measures to re- Ashwini Vaishnaw has not spond to the US blacklisting of wasted any time to make it Chinese companies over their crystal clear how he wants alleged role in abuses of things to pan out in the ongo- Uyghur people and other Mus- ing Twitter-Centre face off af- lim ethnic minorities. ter he assumed office last The Commerce Ministry said week as the Union Minister for the US move constituted an Railways, Communication, Elec- unreasonable suppression of tronics& IT. Chinese enterprises and a seri- "Everyone has to follow the ous breach of international law of the country," Vaishnaw economic and trade rules. said during his first visit to the China will take necessary party headquarters after be- measures to firmly safeguard ing made a Cabinet minister in Chinese companies' legitimate the Narendra Modi-led gov- rights and interests, the ernment. ministry's statement said. No details were given, but When questioned about links. high-technology surveillance penalties over China's treat- China has denied allegations of The U.S. Commerce Depart- against Muslim minorities in ment of Uyghurs and other Twitter not complying with the arbitrary detention and forced ment said in a last-week's Xinjiang. Muslim minorities, along with new IT Rules, the minister labor in the far western region statement that the electronics The penalties prohibit its crackdown on democracy in hinted that everyone has to of Xinjiang and increasingly re- and technology firms and Americans from selling equip- the semi-autonomous city of follow the new guidelines. sponded to sanctions against other businesses helped en- ment or other goods to the Hong Kong. The tracker had a sample companies and officials with its able Beijing's campaign of re- firms. The United States has The Chinese government size of 1,314. IANS own bans on visas and financial pression, mass detention and stepped up financial and trade since 2017 has detained a mil- lion or more people in Xinjiang. Critics accuse China of operat- ing forced labor camps and EAM Jaishankar discusses nuclear, space and defense carrying out torture and co- erced sterilization as it alleg- cooperation with Russian counterpart edly seeks to assimilate Mus- lim ethnic minority groups. MOSCOW: India's "time- He said the two leaders "made showed that "despite the fact dia got from Russia during The US Commerce Depart- tested and trust-based" rela- good progress" as part of prepa- that so many things are chang- the second wave of the ment said 14 companies were tionship remains very strong rations for the annual summit be- ing in our world both before Covid pandemic this year. added to its Entity List over and continues to grow, Exter- tween Prime Minister Narendra and as a result of the COVID-19 India, he said, has always their dealings in Xinjiang, and nal Affairs Minister S Modi and Russian President pandemic, our time-tested and seen its relationship with another five for aiding China's Jaishankar said on Friday as Vladimir Putin later this year. trust-based relationship is very Russia as a contribution to armed forces. he held "productive" talks "I would say the talks were much not just in place but re- global peace, security and The Department of Com- with his Russian counterpart stability. merce remains firmly commit- Sergey Lavrov to step up bi- Jaishankar, who is here on a three-day visit, also "I think what makes our ted to taking strong, decisive lateral cooperation on space, discussed global and regional issues like the situa- working together so natural action to target entities that are enabling human rights nuclear, energy and defense tion in Afghanistan, Iran and Syria and comfortable is our belief sectors. in a multipolar global order. abuses in Xinjiang or that use Jaishankar, who is here on We consider that to be a re- U.S. technology to fuel China's a three-day visit, also dis- as always very warm, comfort- mains very strong, continues flection of a very natural and destabilizing military modern- cussed global and regional able, comprehensive and pro- to grow." inevitable process of evolution ization efforts," Commerce issues like the situation in Af- ductive," Jaishankar said. Jaishankar expressed ap- of inter-state relations in the Secretary Gina Raimondo said ghanistan, Iran and Syria. He said his talks with Lavrov preciation for the support In- 21st century," he added. PTI in a statement posted on the department's website. AP/PTI July 16, 2021 TechBiz Post India Post 13 www.indiapost.com FM urges G20 nations for aligning recovery strategies with climate concerns

NEW DELHI: Finance Minister Nirmala ever they operate and at a minimum Sitharaman urged G20 nations for align- 15 per cent rate. ing economic recovery strategies with Some significant issues including climate concerns. share of profit allocation and scope Participating virtually in the Third of subject to tax rules remain open G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank and need to be addressed. Further, Governors (FMCBG) Meeting under the the technical details of the proposal Italian Presidency, Sitharaman shared will be worked out in the coming recent policy responses of Government months and a consensus agreement of India to strengthen the health system is expected by October. and economy, including the efficient Speaking on the need for aligning application of CoWIN Platform to scale- recovery strategies with climate con- up vaccination in India. cerns, the Finance Minister called for She highlighted the need for interna- climate action strategies to be based tional coordination and cooperation in on the principles of the Paris Agree- view of the emerging CoVID-19 variants. ment and noted the criticality of Sitharaman added that this platform timely fulfillment of international has been made freely available to all commitments on climate finance and countries as humanitarian needs out- the OECD/G20 BEPS-IF to swiftly ad- said in a statement. technology transfer. weigh commercial considerations in dress the remaining issues. Earlier this month, India along with The Finance Minister joined other this extraordinary crisis. Sitharaman suggested further work other nations joined OECD-G20 frame- G20 members in welcoming the Re- As the co-chair of Framework Work- needs to be done to ensure a fairer, sus- work for global minimum tax. Total port of the G20 High-Level Indepen- ing Group of the G20, India along with tainable and inclusive tax system, which 130 countries agreed to an overhaul dent Panel on Financing the Global UK, views digitalization as an agenda results in meaningful revenue for devel- of global tax norms to ensure that Commons for Pandemic Prepared- that will continue to play a key role in oping countries, the Finance Ministry multinational firms pay taxes wher- ness and Response and emphasized bolstering economic growth, she said. on the urgent need to strengthen Regarding the 'Statement on a two- Sitharaman suggested further work needs to be multilateralism for global health. pillar solution to address the tax chal- The G20 Finance Ministers and lenges arising from the digitalization of done to ensure a fairer, sustainable and inclusive tax system, Central Bank Governors reaffirmed the economy', released by the OECD/ which results in meaningful revenue for developing their resolve to use all available G20 Inclusive Framework on Base Ero- policy tools for as long as required to sion and Profit Shifting (BEPS-IF) on July countries, the Finance Ministry said in a statement address the adverse consequences of 1, the G20 Finance Ministers called on COVID-19. PTI Musk living in $50K tiny prefab house in Texas: Report

SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla and SpaceX house in the Bay Area. If I sold it, the room and living space, with a TV placed CEO Elon Musk, one of the world's house would see less use, unless on top. richest multi-billionaires, is now living bought by a big family, which might A washing machine and dryer are in a $50,000, 37-square-meter prefab happen someday," he continued. tucked into the remaining corner by the guesthouse in Boca Chica, Texas, Although, he joked in a reply to an- bathroom, with no inch of space unac- where his SpaceX headquarters are other tweet that his rental might now counted for. IANS located. be worth $69,000 because of some Musk could afford to live any- home improvements he's made. where, in any sort of lavish abode he The Casita is an accessory dwelling desires. But he seems to have deliv- unit (ADU) made by housing startup ered on a vow to exit California and company Boxabl that is only about 37 "sell almost all physical possessions" - square meters. - including six Californian mansions -- The houses are set up like studio in the pursuit of "freedom," accord- apartments, with a "full-size" kitchen ing to website i.stuff.co.nz. and bathroom, featuring a sliding glass "My primary home is literally a barn door, on one side, and a living area $50k house in Boca Chica/Starbase and bedroom on the other. that I rent from SpaceX. It's kinda The kitchen island extends around a awesome though," Musk said earlier corner to double as a dining table for in a tweet. two. The built-in wardrobe/shelving "Only house I own is the events doubles as a half wall between the bed- Health Line

‘Evidence points to natural origin of Covid, not lab-leak’

SYDNEY: An international team of scientists in a new One can be said to be perfectly healthy in body and mind only if no part of the body or mind makes itself felt. A part makes itself felt only when there is something wrong with it. You know that you have a head only when it aches. study has claimed that evi- Sri Atmananda (1883 - 1959) dence points to the natural ori- gin of Covid, debunking the 14 India Post July 16, 2021 theory that Covid-19 leaked www.indiapost.com out of a Chinese laboratory. The team, which includes Australian Nobel laureate Pro- Indian-American health policy expert Meena fessor Peter Doherty, also has scientists from the UK, the US, Seshamani appointed to key Medicare position China, Canada, New Zealand. The study was released on WASHINGTON: Indian- ministrator Chiquita Brooks- leadership role as Deputy Ad- senior leadership of the 10 open-access repository American health policy expert LaSure. ministrator and Director of the hospital, 300+ outpatient care Zenodo, ahead of peer review. Dr. Meena Seshamani, who Providing quality health Centre for Medicare, she said. site health system, a media re- The study stated that served on the leadership of care to the people who rely on Seshamani most recently lease said. coronaviruses have long been the Biden-Harris transition The care models and service known to present pandemic Health and Human Services lines under her leadership, in- risks. Covid-19, which was (HHS) agency review team, has cluding community health, ge- caused by the SARS-CoV-2, is been appointed as the Direc- riatrics, and palliative care, the ninth documented tor of the US Centre for Medi- have been nationally recog- coronavirus that infects hu- care. nized by the Institute for mans. It is also the seventh Sheshamani, 43, will lead the Healthcare Improvement and identified in the last 20 years. Centre's efforts in serving the others. The scientists refuted the lab people 65 or older, people She also cared for patients leak theory citing there is no evi- with disabilities and people as an Assistant Professor of dence. While viruses have been with End-Stage Renal Disease Otolaryngology-Head and known to leak from labs in the that rely on Medicare cover- Neck Surgery at the past, there is no data to suggest age. Georgetown University School the Wuhan Institute of Virology Dr. Seshamani's position as of Medicine, it said. had SARS-CoV-2, or any virus Deputy Administrator and Di- Dr. Seshamani also brings close enough to evolve into it, to rector of Centre for Medicare decades of policy experience be able to leak it, they said. Dr. Meena Seshamani started on July 6. to her role, including recently "Aside from the 1977 A/H1N1 Dr. Meena Seshamani brings Medicare and advancing served as Vice President of serving on the leadership of influenza pandemic that likely her diverse background as a health equity as we do it is a Clinical Care Transformation at the Biden-Harris transition HHS originated from a large-scale health care executive, health priority for CMS. I am delighted MedStar Health, where she agency review team. vaccine challenge trial, there are economist, physician and to say Dr. Seshamani will bring conceptualized, designed, and Prior to MedStar Health, she no documented examples of health policy expert to CMS, her unique perspective on implemented population was director of the office of human epidemics or pandemics said CMS (Centers for Medi- how health policy impacts the health and value-based care Health Reform at the US De- resulting from research activity," care & Medicaid Services) Ad- real lives of patients to her initiatives and served on the partment of Health and Human the scientists claim. IANS Services, where she drove strategy and led implementa- This procedure is compli- tion of the Affordable Care Act Ganga is Covid-free: Scientists cated by the ubiquitous pres- across the department, includ- ence of ribonuclease enzymes ing coverage policy, delivery LUCKNOW: The Ganga stitute, said: "Our team ex- the viral RNA. However, samples in cells and tissues, which can system reform, and public River has been declared tracted RNA and performed an collected from river Gomti did rapidly degrade RNA. health policy, the statement Covid free. The finding bears RT-PCR test for all the samples show the presence of viral Prof Gyaneshwar Chaubey said. significance in the backdrop with a true positive and nega- RNA." of the department of zoology, She received her B.A. with of the fact that BSIP scientists tive sample. Surprisingly, none RNA (RiboNucleic acid) ex- BHU, said: "A joint team of BHU Honors in Business Economics had earlier found traces of the of the samples collected from traction is the purification of and BSIP investigated possible from Brown University, her SARS-CoV2 virus in the water the Ganga showed any trace of RNA from biological samples. presence of the coronavirus in M.D. from the University of of Gomti river in Lucknow. the Ganga as many experts Pennsylvania School of Medi- After a two-month research had expressed contrasting cine, and her Ph.D. in Health by medical and genetic experts views after human bodies Economics from the University of Banaras Hindu University were found floating in the of Oxford, where she was a (BHU), Varanasi and Birbal Sahni river during May 2021." Marshall Scholar. Institute of Palaeosciences He said that to investigate She completed her resi- (BSIP), Lucknow, it has been possible traces of the virus in dency training in Otolaryngol- found that the Ganga river has the Ganga, the team col- ogy-Head and Neck Surgery at no trace of the pandemic caus- lected two samples every the Johns Hopkins University ing coronavirus. week for seven weeks from School of Medicine, and prac- BSIP scientist Niraj Rai, who Varanasi city, beginning May ticed as a head and neck sur- heads the Covid Lab at the in- 15 to July 3. IANS geon at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco. PTI TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Lut Gaye: Lut Gaye 2 Thoda Thoda Pyaar: Thoda Thoda Pyaar July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com India Post 15 3 Main Jis Din Bhulaa Du: Main Jis Din Bhulaa Du

4 Nadiyon Paar: Nadiyon Paar 5 Baarish Ki Jaaye: Baarish Ki Jaaye 6 Chhor Denge: Chhor Denge 7 Bepanah Pyaar: Bepanah Pyaar 8 Panghat: Panghat 9 Aur Pyaar Karna Hai : Aur Pyaar Karna Hai 10 Tera Suit: Tera Suit

ctor and fitness enthusiast A Disha Patani took everyone by surprise by lifting 80 kilos of weights in the gym. he Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone-starrer spectacle and the big screen experience," said director Disha posted a video on "Fighter" will be India's first-ever aerial action genre Anand. Instagram, where she is seen do- film. The film will be produced by Viacom18 Studios, T ing weighted squats with Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film will be shot using Mamta Anand, Ramon Chibb and Anku Pande. 80 kilos of weight. The the latest technology and filming techniques, and at loca- Speaking about the project, Ajit Andhare, COO, actress shared that she tions across the world. "Fighter" is slated for release in Viacom18 Studios, said: "An aerial action film did one repetition. 2022. offers a unique cinematic experience. It has "80kg 1 rep thank "'Fighter' is a dream project and I am glad to have some- never been done in India. Being a 'Top Gun' you @rajendradhole," one with Ajit's vision to be partnering this with me. With fan, I have been looking for a script for Disha captioned the this film we aim to put Indian films on the map for ac- years that explores aerial action and picture. Krishna Shroff, tion-loving global theatrical audiences who crave for has a story rooted in India. IANS who is the sister of Disha's beau Tiger Shroff, ctor Ayushmann Khurrana says he follows a lot of "When I was looking to make a name for commented: "Strong." Ayoung poets, singers, performing artistes and danc- myself, I didn't have the power of social me- Tiger's mother Ayesha Shroff ers who are yet to burst onto the scene and tries using his dia to put myself out there. I didn't praised Disha. social media to draw attention to these artistes. have the ways to get the opportuni- "This is the same girl who "I follow a lot of incredible young poets, singers, per- ties I could have got years back. So, started squats with an forming artistes, dancers who are yet to burst onto the I feel if we all can use our social empty bar!!! Mehnat!" scene and I'm always awed by their talent. So, I try and use media as a platform to bring out Ayesha wrote. my social media to draw attention to these really fantastic some of the best talents, we The actress was artists who I feel are the future disruptors. The reason for would be doing right by our recently seen in doing so is rooted in my past," said Ayushmann. country and the genius it Salman Khan's Eid re- He has been doing this since 2019, and has used the has to offer," he said. IANS lease of the year, pandemic to actively discover and endorse such talent. "Radhe". She also has "Ek Villain Returns" along with John Abraham coming up, and will be seen in the Ekta Kapoor-produced heroine- centric drama "KTina". IANS 16 India Post www.indiapost.com July 16, 2021

hat makes Dilip Kumar stand apart from other actors of his era is the dif Wferent dimensions of his acting. The same Dilip Kumar, whose tribulations in "Devdas" or "Deedar" as the tragic lover brought tears to our eyes, also manages to make us laugh through his jo- cund moments in "Kohinoor" and "Azaad". His seam- less synthesis of this dichotomy played a major role in making him an on-screen persona cherished by millions. He was a method actor. The most important thing to notice was how he maintained a balance in his work. If in "Foot Path" he has done a realistic role where his character brings out the negative shades, "Deedar" shows love at its extreme where the lover forcefully blinds himself because his childhood lover doesn't remember him anymore. In "Aan" you find him as a typical hero of commercial cin- ema who rides horses, engages in sword fights with villains and protects his be- loved from them. He became a complete his eyes can be seen speaking a thousand words. Look at entertainer in this film. his character in Mehboob Khan's "Amar", and you find Dilip Kumar will not grey shades, too. Dilip Kumar, through his eyes, con- only be remembered veyed resentment, guilt and remorse of a man who because he was an actor raped an innocent village girl. par excellence, but also be- "Madhumati" is a film with many layers. It is a cause he re-lived his characters. story of reincarnation, timeless romance and feu- Even without uttering a single word dalism. The entire film holds you through- out due to the marvelous acting skills of Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala, soulful com- Dilip Kumar's leading ladies position and it is most inter- esting to see how three NEW DELHI: Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar, popu- karne ke different stories unfold larly known as the Tragedy King, has romanced liye peeta and how they are finally many top actresses on screen over his six decades hai?" says linked. These complexities in Hindi films. Devdas, played by are well depicted by the It is said that the actor always chose to act oppo- Dilip Kumar, to Chandramukhi great actor. site top actresses of his era. His tragic image as a played by Vyjayanthimala. IANS doomed lover, mostly a victim of fate, made him the MADHUBALA: Madhubala and Dilip dream man of a million women. His memorable on- Kumar were a pair of dreams and doom. screen pairings have evoked every emotion from It is said that their pair in the epic laughter to tears, and occasionally tickled the "Mughal-e-Azam" was an obituary to their Bollywood gossip vine, too. tragic love. The veteran debuted as an actor in the film "Jwar MEENA KUMARI: Yet, interestingly, they worked to- Bhata" in 1944. Since then, over the years, top actresses gether in the light-hearted films "Azaad" (1955) and of the era have delivered hit s opposite the thespian. "Kohinoor" (1960), where the two did cheerful roles. Here are five heroines who made an outstanding pair SAIRA BANU: It is said that initially Dilip Kumar re- with Dilip Kumar. fused to pair with Saira Banu dismissing her to be NARGIS: Dilip Kumar had declined to play the too young for him. His real-life heroine Saira went role of Nargis's son in "Mother India" in 1957. on to do films like "Gopi" (1970), "Sagina" (1974) and VYJAYANTHIMALA: "Kaun kambakht bardasht "Bairaag" (1976) after marriage. IANS Desi News Joint CDC and FDA Statement on COMMUNITY Vaccine Boosters India Post News Service he United States is fortu- ACROSS AMERICA Zippo asked to withdraw Tnate to have highly effec- tive vaccines that are widely Hindu gods' lighters available for those aged 12 and July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com India Post 17 Details on page 21 up. People who are fully vacci- nated are protected from se- vere disease and death, includ- ing from the variants currently Indiaspora welcomes Mayor Eric circulating in the country such as Delta. People who are not vaccinated remain at risk. Virtu- ally all COVID-19 hospitaliza- Garcetti as Ambassador to India tions and deaths are among India Post News Service tion, and visitors to the city, those who are unvaccinated. WASHINGTON, DC: according to Los Angeles' We encourage Americans who Indiaspora, a global Indian government website. have not yet been vaccinated diaspora activists, extended Speaking about Garcetti's to get vaccinated as soon as wholehearted welcome to the accomplishments as Mayor of possible to protect themselves President Biden administration Los Angeles Executive Direc- and their community. nomination of Los Angeles tor of Indiaspora Sanjeev Americans who have been Mayor Eric Garcetti as the U.S. Joshipura, said that it in- fully vaccinated do not need a Ambassador to India. cludes bringing the 2028 booster shot at this time. FDA, As the Mayor of Los Angeles, Summer Olympic and CDC, and NIH are engaged in a the second largest city in US, Paralympic Games to the science-based, rigorous pro- Garcetti would bring valuable United States for the first cess to consider whether or political and administrative time in more than 30 years, as when a booster might be nec- experience to the role. A well as leading an effort of essary. This process takes into close political confidante of more than 400 fellow mayors account laboratory data, clini- President Biden who served across America to adopt the cal trial data, and cohort data - as a Co-chair of his campaign Paris Climate agreement. which can include data from in 2020, Garcetti also would Indiaspora specific pharmaceutical com- have the President's ear. (www.indiaspora.org) is a panies, but does not rely on "We are excited that Presi- nonprofit community of pow- those data exclusively. We con- dent Biden has nominated a Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti erful global Indian leaders tinue to review any new data reputed leader who has from diverse backgrounds as it becomes available and will proven himself on several and trusted ally of President A Rhodes' Scholar, he has and professions who are com- keep the public informed. We fronts," said a founder of Biden may be America's point served as Los Angeles' first mitted to inspiring the are prepared for booster IndiasporaRangaswami, a Sili- person in Delhi." Deputy Mayor for Interna- diaspora to be a force for doses if and when the science con Valley-based entrepre- Garcetti has a range of in- tional Affairs, where he ex- positive impact by providing demonstrates that they are neur. "It speaks volumes to ternational experience, hav- panded L.A.'s global ties to a platform to collaborate, en- needed. the importance of the U.S.-In- ing lived and worked in Asia bring more jobs, economic gage, and catalyze social dia relationship that a close as well as Europe and Africa. opportunity, culture, educa- change.

PPA Entertainment Krishnamoorthi hails LA Mayor Eric Garcetti as Ambassador to India first mega event HARISH RAO with awardee CHICAGO: Congressman dia is an important step for- SURESH BODIWALA Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) ward in the U.S.-India part- welcomed President Biden's nership as our nations work to- CHICAGO: Hundreds of art- nomination of Los Angeles gether to end the pandemic, ists and community members Mayor Eric Garcetti for U.S Am- increase economic coopera- were recognized at the very bassador to India: tion, and ensure regional secu- first event of PPA Entertain- "President Biden's nomina- rity. Mayor Garcetti's experi- ment at Big Suchir, Downers tion of Mayor Garcetti to serve ence in leading Los Angeles Grove, a south side suburb of as our next Ambassador to In- while championing interna- Chicago tional cooperation between the PPA Entertainment is run by "President Biden's nomi- world's leading cities will un- Pinky and Dinesh Thakkar, nation of Mayor Garcetti doubtedly serve him well as he Pratibha Jairath and Ashok to serve as our next helps strengthens the relation- Potdar. ship between the world's larg- Ambassador to India” est democracy and its oldest." Details on page 20 18 India Post Community Across America July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com One Fine Day - Transform life-changing experiences Author's statement of purpose for writing the book SAMEER BHIDE

life altering events over the last four Bottom-line Messages of One Fine from my journey. My mission became to and half years. First, in January 2017, my Day: help and guide people worldwide on life changed dramatically one fine day - • We all are one fine day away from a how one can prepare for and embrace just like that. I had a massive and ex- new normal and we need to be pre- their new normal. I found a way by pen- tremely rare hemorrhagic brain stroke. pared. ning my memoir and I sincerely hope I would require two different brain sur- • Accepting life's changes no matter that it will provide some comfort, infor- geries and spend the next month in a what they are and embracing the re- mation, and inspiration to others. medically induced coma before I could sulting new normal is the best choice even begin the years-long hard path to What does One Fine Day mean recovery, which is still ongoing. Second, One Fine Day means life can and will also because of the stroke I had to quit change for good or bad for anyone (rich work as a Management and Tech- or poor, black, or white, old, or young, nology Consultant after etc.) anytime and anywhere. It is not

Sameer Bhide working nonstop for 24 necessarily only bad life changes but years. Third, on top of it also good ones, it could be any ad- I went through a di- versity like physical illness, lay- Who am I? vorce. off, divorce, loss of a loved grew up in Mumbai, India. I com One Fine Day is one or good life pleted my bachelor's degree in Ac not a sob story and changes like get- Icounting (B.Com) and played com- is not a prescrip- ting married, petitive badminton and cricket. I tive memoir (i.e., a birth of a moved to the United States 31 years list of top things to child, relocat- ago as an international student, com- do to face life ing to a foreign pleting my Bachelor's in Management changes or adver- country, promo- and an MBA. Then I worked for several sity). It is a cross be- tion, retirement global companies for many years in tween a teaching etc., which re- Cleveland and Boston before settling memoir (informing sults in a new nor- down in Northern Virginia, outside and educating read- mal. And no matter Washington DC since 2002. Like many ers about different what these changes are other immigrants, I had lived the Ameri- things - eastern holistic they are hard, alters our trajec- can dream - great job, loving family, a medicine, India, USA, re- tory and require successful adap- beautiful house, and a sports car till that siliency, positivity etc.), and tation. The way I look at it the entire fateful day in January 2017 when my life an inspirational memoir that world had its One Fine Day and is now changed drastically and forever. Cur- hopefully provides some comfort facing a new normal due to the corona rently I am on Long Term Disability and and inspiration --good or bad--and a we have virus pandemic. When I started writing live in Northern Virginia and am a proud new normal. It is also about how I came • Self-pity and complaining are not One Fine Day, I was writing with many Indian American. back from the brink of death with the options. life-changes and adversities in mind, help of a diverse community of friends, which create a new normal for many What is One Fine Day caregivers, colleagues, and other Why did I write One Fine Day? folks. But never in a million years I It is my story of hope and resilience people around him in my adopted After my stroke, I was completely thought that my messages from the and how I have slowly tried to embrace country (USA) and my country of birth bed-ridden initially, then started using book are much more relevant now due my new normal with positivity, grace (India) besides my family. a wheelchair, then a walker and now on to the dramatic new normal caused by and gratitude caused by three major a cane. I had done so many treatments/ the pandemic. My main message from

It is my story of hope and resilience and how I have slowly tried to embrace my new normal with positivity, grace and gratitude caused by three major life altering events over the last four and half years

therapies in Western and Eastern medi- the book is that we all are - one fine day cine to help me heal my mind, body, and away from a new normal, and we must spirit. I felt profoundly grateful and be prepared to accept those life thankful to have this second lease on changes with positivity, grace, and life and wanted to give back to society - gratitude no matter what type of new i.e., to help others going through adver- normal one is facing, as hard it may be. sity or any other life changes by sharing To learn more visit - https:// my stories, experiences, lessons learned www.sameerbhide.com/one-fine-day July 16, 2021 Community Across America India Post 19 www.indiapost.com Book release and farewell reception for journalist Lakshmana Rao Bhailal Patel

CHICAGO: Members of the newspaper pages," Shah said. said that he as a media professional and schools of many universities, includ- Chicagoland Indian-American commu- Dr. Barai urged Rao and others in as a member of the community had wit- ing Northwestern University in Chi- nity hosted a book release and farewell media to take seriously the idea of train- nessed how Rao excelled in his profes- cago, and a few of his students are reception for a veteran journalist and ing youth in journalism to create a bet- sion and there was no important event now working in the mainstream me- author Lakshmana Rao, editor of India ter understanding of the world and of the community he had not covered. dia. Tribune. The event was held at Rao spoke briefly about Manav Seva Mandir in his experience as a journal- Bensenville, a Chicago suburb ist. He said that journalism on July 3 2021?Rao going back was not a profession but a to Indiais releasing a book en- mission for him, and he titled 'Sojourn of A Singular thoroughly enjoyed work- Scribe'that describes his jour- ing as a responsible jour- ney as journalist for over 60 nalist and all the newspa- years The book is praised for pers he worked with had objective summation and for given him freedom to per- holding "high" editorial posi- form his duties. His most tions, observed Dr. Bharat memorable days were with Barai, a well-known physician the Indian Express in India and community activist. Dr. and the India Tribune in the Barai opened the meeting and U.S., he said. mentioned that Western me- Dr. S.V. Rama Rao, a noted dia needs focusing India accu- artist and writer, Dr. rately even as ethnic media Prakasam Tata, Dr. was doing its best to cover all ShridarDamle, Dr. Sonty aspects of modern society. From left, Rohit Joshi, Consul Ranjit Singh, J.V. Lakshmana Rao, Dr. Bharat Barai, Bhailal Patel, and Prashant Shah, Sriram and many others also publisher of India Tribune. Photo provided by organizers However, the emergence of spoke at the event hailing electronic media, and introduction of serve society. Welcoming the gathering Patel said Rao's writings had brought Lakshmana Rao's services as a journalist. video and audio sources, print media on behalf of the Indian community, lot of changes in many organizations. Some organizations also felicitated him had been facing decline, as was the Bhailal Patel, a community activist and a He trained and mentored many bud- on the occasion. Jitendar Singh Bedi, an newspaper reading habit among youth, former publisher of popular Pink Pages, ding journalists, taught at journalism emcee, proposed the vote of thanks. he added. Indian Consul, Ranjit Singh, as a Guest of Honor representing the Con- sulate General of India in Chicago, said that he had heard a lot of good things about Lakshmana Rao's role as editor of India Tribune. He said that he had gone through the book and found many in- teresting things. For example, "Lakshmana Rao mentioned that in the US the journalists and media persons, who accompany the high dignitaries like Presidents in foreign tours, foot their own travel and lodging bills, un- like in India, where the retinue of media personnel enjoy the freebies and hos- pitality of the government there." He however notedthat, the Indian government has begun keeping its me- dia entourage small with select media personnel. Prashant Shah, publisher of the India Tribune, said Rao's contribu- tion to the growth of the newspaper was immense."I am only an accidental publisher and journalist, but Lakshmana Rao is thorough in his profession, very objective, fearless and frank; and used to work all the seven days for several extended hours. Besides being a very prolific writer, he was meticulous about the content, spelling and grammar of every sentence that went into the 20 India Post Community Across America July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com PPA Entertainment first mega event with awardee SURESH BODIWALA CHICAGO: Hundreds of artists and community members were recognized at the very first event of PPA Entertain- ment at Big Suchir, Downers Grove, a south side suburb of Chicago PPA Entertainment is run by Pinky and Dinesh Thakkar, Pratibha Jairath and Ashok Potdar. The beautiful musical event started with lamp lighting by the organizers along with the chief guest Sunil Shah and his wife Rita Shah and other distin- guished guests followed by a melodi- ous devotional song by Rita Shah. Sunil Shah congratulated the organiz- ers for organizing a well thought-out and well-planned event. He mentioned how these events build bridges and bring communities and people to- gether. He, as always, ensured his sup- port for all the future initiatives of PPA PPA Entertainment lamp lighting Entertainment and extended his best wishes to everyone. Beri, Raju Bankapur, ShailaKhedkar, Sunil Shah and Rita Shah presented Jitendra Bulsara, Sanjiv Gulati, Mir Ali, plaques to the special guests that in- Shirley K, Usha Kumaria, Anil and Asha cluded Dr. Bhupinder Beri, Aparna Khot, Oroskar, Bharat Dhutia, Pinky Thakkar, Dinesh Thakkar, Kirit Thakkar, Gurmeet Kirit Thakkar, Mukund Thakkar, Harish Dhalwan, Dr. Asha Oroskar, Dr. Kamal Thakkar, Hansa Patel, Saif Ali, Ashok Patel, Anil Loomba, Brij Sharma, Vijay Potdar, Gopal Bhardwaz. Sharma, and Vinita Gulabani. The musical atmosphere was very Brij Sharma talked about his inspira- well complemented by a sumptuous tional journey as a successful entrepre- five-course dinner by Big Suchir. The ex- neur and explained how his wife Vijay cellent hospitality and beautiful venue Sharma stood by him like a pillar of added to the grace of the entire event. strength through thick and thin Big Suchir, located in Downers Grove, IL Some guests were recognized for PPA entertainment evening and run by a very well-known entrepre- their contributions in their respective neur Niranjan Nathwani, is a favorite fields that included Prachi Jaitly, Phani Ali Khan, Hitesh Gandhi, Anil Loomba, Late Mr. Chitu Patel, GaurangAhivasi venue for thousands of people. Krishna and Naveen Karna (AANA Altaf Bukhari, Pinky Thakkar, Ashok and Dipti Soni. The event concluded with all the Team), Dr Madhu Uppal, Malhan, Potdar, Neha Potdar, Pina Potdar, Saif The evening was made melodious guests dancing to the musical beats Ramesh, Dharam Punwani, Raju Ali, Suresh Bodiwala, Niranjan by a number of vocalists that included along with a vote of thanks by the or- Bankapur, ShailaKhedkar, Sanjiv Gulati, Nathwani, Chirag Shah, Raman Patel, Rita Shah, Pratibha Jairath, Bhupendra ganizers.

In-person applications for Passport, OCI, PCC and GEP services with prior appointment only at VFS Global

India Post News Service 2. An applicant is required to applicant is required to pay the SAN FRANCISCO: With effect from visit the VFS Global Website service charge of US$15.90 to VFS 15th July, 2021 VFS Global, the https://services.vfsglobal.com/ Global. Other charges, i.e., the Outsourcing Service Provider for con- usa/en/ind/for online submis- Government of India fee and the sular services for the Consulate Gen- sion of applications (at the Gov- ICWF charges and for optional ser- eral of India, San Francisco will start ernment of India portals) for vices (e.g. for return courier), if accepting in-person applications for respective services. Thereaf- any, will need to be paid at the VFS Passport, OCI, Police Clearance Cer- ter he can make an ap- Center. The applicants are advised tificate (PCC) and Global Entry Pro- pointment for in-person to carry all the required documen- gram (GEP) services at its center with submission of applications tation to VFS Global as per the prior appointment only.(The current at the VFS Global Center checklists for the respective ser- practice of accepting the applica- (228 Grant Ave, Floor 5, San Fran- vices at the scheduled time of ap- tions by Mail will also continue.) cisco, CA - 94108). At this stage, the pointment. July 16, 2021 Community Across America India Post 21 www.indiapost.com Seniors should get involved in hobbies: Navraaz K Basati THAKAR S BASATI CHICAGO: Sikh Seniors of Chicago protect them, and grow them. We all held their monthly meeting on 7 July at have worked hard the entire life to take Palatine Gurdwara Sahib's Community care of family, now in retirement take hall in Palatine, a Chicago west side sub- some time out for oneself. Spend time urb. doing what you always wanted to do. As the saying goes "an empty mind Volunteer to help others. Volunteer in is a devil's workshop", many Seniors are hospitals, libraries, schools. If possible sitting home due to Corona or lack of tutor students. Help others achieve activity around the house or community. their goals. Mentor someone. Share It doesn't have to be that way that was your life experiences with others to the message conveyed to the Sikh Se- make them happy/comfortable. niors by Navraaz Kaur Basati, a certified Navraaz brought organic herbal Rose Master Gardener giving natural therapy and Tulsi tea. Seniors loved it. She also to people through natural environment. brought craft supplies and different She is also advisor to many organiza- leaves from her garden to make greet- tions on keeping a healthy environ- ing cards for loved ones. She taught Se- ment. She is the Environment Commis- niors how to draw outlines of leaves and sioner for her city after training from make beautiful cards, and then she had Chicago Botanical Garden. them write personal messages in their There are so many ways to stay ac- own mother tongue to share with fam- tive and keep involved. Reading, writ- ily members. ing, painting, drawing, doing puzzles, Getting involved offers many chal- putting models together are some of lenges to mental health, physical the activities one can do by oneself or health. It helps improve your motor and get grand-kids involved. sensory skills. Helps avoid anxiety, de- How about learning a new language, pression. Sometimes, it is difficult to ex- music, craft… In some countries like press verbally but easier to do so in Ireland, Poland, men do knitting. In In- writing. It will stimulate your brain. dia people used to make their own Makes your brain work hard and helps cots/stools. Hiking, bird watching are avoid mental diseases like stroke, de- some more. Enjoy the variety of colors, mentia etc. actions and their survival skills. There are Sikh Seniors also meet weekly on groups you can join. They train you. Sikh seniors meet in Palatine Thursdays from 3pm to 4pm at Palatine There are websites who will get you open land. Human beings are social ani- offload their worries, laugh together, Gurdwara Sahib to do Gurbani Vichar started with bird watching. You keep mals. Most times, one behaves differ- play games. with Bhai Parminderjit Singh. S Prempal track of birds you saw in your area. It ently in a group. People in peer Seniors should get out and enjoy Singh, Sikh Religious Society Outreach helps record their movements, popula- groupsare more likely to open up about trees, flowers, make it routine. You can Director makes all arrangements. To tion. what is bothering them. They share even read under or, by a tree and enjoy know more about Senior activities, Gardening is another one, one can do their stories, which they cannot share the soothing sounds of nature. Spend please contact S Surinderpal Singh oneself or in a group. You can grow your with their families. In India and some some time by a stream. Establish rela- Kalra at 847-305-9119, S Iqbal Singh own fresh vegetables free of chemicals. other countries, people would sit under tionships with flowers, trees, listen to Chopra at 224-358-7769 or One can try box-gardening if short of trees and spend time together to them. One cannot survive without trees; [email protected]. Zippo asked to withdraw Hindu gods' lighters MADHU PATEL CHICAGO: Hindus have asked in the business of religious appro- ogy; besides withdrawing lighters Bradford (Pennsylvania, USA) based priation, sacrilege, and ridiculing en- carrying images of Hindu deities and Zippo Manufacturing Company to im- tire communities. It was deeply Om from its Bradford flagship store mediately recall Zippo lighters dis- trivializing of immensely venerated and website and websites/stores of playing images of Hindu gods, calling Ganesha-Shiva- other retailers like Amazon, Walmart, it "highly inappropriate". Lakshmi to be etc. The protest is spearheaded Rajan portrayed in With tagline of "Fire, heat, and Zed president of Universal Society of this manner, fashion. Since 1932", iconic brand Hinduism, who indicated that Hindu Rajan Zed em- Zippo produced 600 millionth deities Ganesha-Shiva-Lakshmi were phasized. windproof lighter in June 2020. highly revered in Hinduism and were Zed also Zippo products are sold in over 160 meant to be worshipped in temples urged George countries/regions around the world, or home shrines and not to be used Duke and Mark Paup, including India. for lighting cigarettes. Zippo's Board Chairman and CEO Lighter companies should not be respectively, to offer a formal apol- Zippo Lighters 22 India Post Community Across America July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com To Mask or not to Mask - Delta variant is deadly, wear a mask

VIDYA SETHURAMAN epidemiologist, health economist and average. And the variants that come ant, but the large number of unvac- India Post News Service senior fellow at the Federation of out of these hot spots are going to be cinated individuals in Texas remains he COVID-19 vaccines will never American Scientists in Washington problems that the rest of the country a concern. According to the Texas be perfect; fully vaccinated D.C., said at the briefing. The Delta and ultimately the world are going to Department of State Health Ser- Tpeople can still get infected, variant is between 40 and 60 percent have to deal with. Clearly, COVID is not vices, less than half of Texans over though they're much less likely to be the age of 12 approximately 48.2 Noam Galai | Getty Images hospitalized or die from the disease. As percent, are fully vaccinated. The economies re-open across the U.S., resi- key change about this variant is that dents are confused as to whether or not it has a better way of getting into they should continue to wear a mask. our cells and latching onto them. The Centers for Disease Control says Regular COVID-19 tests do not de- vaccinated people can forgo a mask, tect which variant is involved, while the World Health Organization which requires genomic sequenc- suggests that even vaccinated people ing, a process separate from regu- should continue to wear their masks. lar virus tests and one that not all Meanwhile, states and counties are is- labs are able to do. suing their own guidelines. People who are fully vaccinated As of Thursday (8 July), less than half should continue to follow COVID pre- of the US population 47.7% was fully cautions, like wearing a mask and so- vaccinated. Cases and hospitalizations cial distancing. "Our vaccination are up especially in parts of the coun- rates are not high enough to where try where vaccination coverage is low, we can expect that this virus will go CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky away on its own," Neuman said. said at a White House Covid-19 brief- Though the CDC says people who are ing last week. fully vaccinated do not have to wear Experts at the EMS briefing on July more transmissible than the Alpha over. It's more contagious. masks in public spaces, Neuman is 9 discussed masking options - espe- variant first identified. Delta variants Neuman said vaccines authorized pleading for everyone to continue cially in view of the rapid spread of may also result in more severe dis- for use in the U.S. appear to provide wearing them, especially with the the Delta variant - and provided infor- ease and it is vaccine evasive. Fortu- protection against the Delta vari- delta variant spreading in Texas. mation for individuals to make in- nately, vaccination appears to provide formed decisions. The Centers for Dis- good protection against Delta al- ease Control and Prevention has clas- though one dose seems to offer less sified Delta as a "variant of concern" protection than it did against other Entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis gives circulating in the U.S., which means it variants. So to avoid the conse- may carry a risk of more severe illness quences of this variant, I advise even Dion's Chicago Dream $21,000 grant and transmissibility. It accounts for the fully vaccinated people to mask MADHU PATEL about 10 percent of the country's up, added Dr Eric. COVID-19 cases. Dr. Jose Perez, Chief Medical Of- CHICAGO: Marcus Lemonis, best through our Dream Delivery produce CDC study shows, double mask ficer, South Central Family Health Cen- known for his long-running hit show delivery program. Fighting food insecu- makes a huge difference in the reduc- ter said even fully vaccinated people 'The Profit' is stepping up to help rity requires a commitment to quality tion of aerosol transmission. I person- should mask up and maintain social emerging entrepreneurs and foster a and consistency. This grant ensures that." ally think this is very wise advice to distance to avoid the transmission. He lasting impact on small business own- "My goal is to keep Main Street USA ers across the country thru his Lemon- alive and well during the economic As of Thursday (8 July), less than half of the US population Aid Foundation. A recent grant recipi- troubles that COVID-19 has brought to ent is Dion's Chicago Dream, a non- our small business owners," said 47.7% was fully vaccinated. Cases and hospitalizations are up profit organization that combats food Lemonis. "Helping talented entrepre- especially in parts of the country where vaccination cover- insecurity faced by West Englewood neurs, particularly women and minori- residents in Chicago, IL. ties, who simply haven't had the same age is low, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said at a In spring 2021, Lemonis announced resources and guidance available to on social media that he would be offer- them as many of us have. This founda- White House Covid-19 briefing last week ing small business grants to entrepre- tion is here to build a bridge of knowl- neurs looking to grow and establish edge and opportunities for those indi- wear a mask. Premium masks work added that vaccination rates have to their business. Lemonis awarded Dion's viduals in need of a chance." better than the surgical mask. The be increased, even in the LA area. Chicago Dream with a $21,000 grant to In October 2020, Lemonis estab- Delta Variant is enormously conta- Dr. Ben Neuman, Chief virologist at infuse funds into growing their business. lished the Lemon-AID Foundation with gious with even fleeting exposure of the Global Health Research Complex "This grant means the world to us," said a $50 million pledge aimed at provid- just seconds. This indicates clearly at Texas A&M University said the U.S. founder Dion Dawson. "This grant will al- ing greater opportunities for small busi- fast airborne transmission. It is four is not going to be in a stable position low us to provide 80 Chicago house- nesses and underserved communities. times more dangerous than the other until each of these low-vaccination ar- holds with more than 8,000 pounds of Since the inception, close to $3 million variants, said Dr. Eric Feigl-Ding, an eas is brought up to at least a national new, fresh produce to their doorstep dollars has been deployed. July 16, 2021 Community Across America India Post 23 www.indiapost.com Toyota to sponsor inaugural Minor League Cricket Championship presented by Sling Tv · The most extensive competition in American cricket history will launch nationwide on July 31, with more than 200 games set to take place in 21 cities · Twenty-seven teams will compete for $250,000 in prize money, the largest purse in American cricket LOS ALTOS, CA: Minor League Cricket porters in the United States," said Jus- and opportunity for the best cricketers stream sport in the United States out- (MiLC) announced a partnership with tin Geale, Tournament Director for Ma- in America to showcase their abilities at lined in USA Cricket's Foundational Toyota to sponsor its inaugural champi- jor League Cricket. "The sport is on an a national level and build cricket in com- Plan." onship season in 2021. The Toyota Mi- incredible growth trajectory domesti- munities across the country. The full schedule and list of all com- nor League Cricket Championship will cally as we build towards the launch of "The scale and level of competition peting 27 teams and their divisional be presented by SLING TV, with games Major League Cricket and adding both that Minor League Cricket will launch breakdown is available at set to begin on July 31. More than Toyota and SLING TV as partners in Mi- with this summer will help build the www.majorleaguecricket.com.FOR $4,000,000 has been invested by Minor nor League Cricket shows there has pathway to develop young, talented MORE DETAILS CONTACTEmail: League Cricket and its 27-team owners never been a more promising future for cricketers across the nation into future [email protected] into staging the tournament, the most ABOUT MINOR LEAGUE CRICKET - Mi- extensive competition to ever take The Toyota Minor League Cricket Championship will nor League Cricket is a national place in American cricket. feature ten weekends of competitive play in the Twenty20 Twenty20 cricket competition for 27 The Toyota Minor League Cricket format loved by cricket fans around the world, culminating city-based teams from across the Championship will feature ten week- United States, launching this summer. ends of competitive play in the in a finals weekend on Oct. 2-3 More than 200 games will take place at Twenty20 format loved by cricket fans 26 venues, featuring more than 400 around the world, culminating in a finals cricket in this country." national team stars," said USA Cricket players. Minor League Cricket will pro- weekend on Oct. 2-3. Total prize money "SLING TV is thrilled to partner with CEO Iain Higgins. "Minor League vide a foundational structure for cricket of $250,000 for the competition repre- Minor League Cricket and help grow Cricket, with the important support of in the United States, providing a path- sents the largest purse in American the game's national audience," com- Toyota and SLING TV, provides a tre- way to Major League Cricket and the cricket. mented Liz Riemersma, Vice-President - mendous step forward towards achiev- United States National Team for the Twenty-seven participating teams International for SLING TV. "Because ing the vision of making cricket a main- nation's best players. will compete for the championship SLING TV offers streaming services for across four geographic divisions - East- both American and international chan- ern, Central, Southern and Western - nels, we are primed to not only intro- with over 200 games set to take place duce American cricket to our existing in 21 cities nationwide. cricket fan base but also to American "We're honored to be part of the first- audiences." ever Minor League Cricket season and Team rosters have already been an- to help support the growth of the sport nounced for the 27 MiLC teams and fea- as it embarks on its most extensive ture the strongest talent available in competition to ever take place in the American cricket. Each team features a United States," said Matt Ozawa, man- selection of marquee players, priority ager, asset management and activation, domestic players, and a required num- Toyota Motor North America. "We look ber of U21 and U19 players. forward to joining the league, its ath- Minor League Cricket is the only na- letes, cricket lovers and Toyota fans tionwide tournament involving the across the country for a historic inaugu- strongest male players playing against ral championship season." each other at the best available facili- "We are delighted to partner with ties and forms a critical part of the Toyota, a global brand committing to evolving USA Cricket domestic cricket support the growth of American structure and pathway. The primary aim cricket, a sport loved by millions of sup- of the tournament is to give a platform Realty Tidbits Buying your dream home?

Building collapse NEW DELHI: Owning a house is one of the life goals shows town's rich, of many people. If you are willing to buy your dream house, it's time to make the move as the housing middle-class division Real Estate prices have seen optimal correction and are un- SURFSIDE: The condo tower likely to fall further. "In fact, all-time low interest collapse in Surfside could ex- rates, government impetus to housing for all, ample acerbate the division that al- ready supply and attractive offers by the develop- ready exists between the tiny ers have made it an opportune time to buy a dream Florida town's new luxury home," suggests Ankit Goel, Director, Goel Ganga buildings built for the global 24 India Post www.indiapost.com July 16, 2021 Developments. IANSlife elite and those constructed decades ago for the middle class. It is already creating headaches for some small Puri rly station to be developed as businesses. The town has seen the con- struction of numerous new world-class transit hub condos in recent years, where large oceanfront units exceed- BHUBANESWAR: The railway ing 3,000 square feet (280 station at pilgrim city Puri in square meters) with modern Odisha will be redeveloped as amenities can fetch USD 10 a world-class transit hub, offi- million and up. Meanwhile, cials said. small units of 800 square feet The Rail Land Development (75 square meters) in neigh- boring condo buildings con- Authority (RLDA), a statutory structed decades ago can be authority under the Ministry of had for USD 400,000. Railways, has invited bids for Ana Bosovic, a South Florida the redevelopment of the sta- real estate analyst, said the tion, an official said 8 July. June 24 collapse of the 40-year- The station will be built on old, middle-class Champlain Design, Build, Finance, Oper- Towers South will exacerbate ate, Transfer Model (DBFOT), this division. At least 36 people and the tentative cost of the were killed and more than 100 project (excluding the cost of remain missing. redevelopment of station es- Bosovic said many buyers tate) is estimated at Rs 82 and the deadline for the bid ment will also lead to a surge Puri railway station is an will now avoid older buildings, crore, RLDA said in a state- submission is August 17, 2021. in business activities, boost NSG-2 category terminal sta- not just because they fear they ment. "Puri is a historic city and a real estate and generate em- tion under the Khurda division might also fall but because of The scope of work includes renowned tourist hub. The re- ployment in the region, he of the East Coast Railway repair costs the Champlain the up-gradation and inte- development of Puri railway said. (ECoR) zone. It is one of the South owners faced before the grated redevelopment of the station will bolster tourism The station is envisaged as a busiest stations of the zone, collapse: USD 80,000 to USD station spanning 28,574 sq m prospects and position it multimodal transit hub in line which has eight platforms han- 300,000 per unit. These factors and the development of the among the leading destina- with international standards dling 52 trains daily, including will decrease older condos' surrounding railway land, it tions for religious tourism," with segregation for entry and mail, express and passenger value, while prices in luxury said. said Ved Parkash Dudeja, vice- exit, baggage security, check- trains. In 2018-19, Puri handled buildings will continue to sky- The pre-bid meeting for this chairman of RLDA. in area, an information center/ a daily footfall of almost 16,680 rocket. PTI is scheduled for July 15, 2021, The commercial develop- enquiry center and art gallery. passengers. IANS Elegant window grill designs for your home SUNITA MISHRA afety and beauty are you will find this forged metal Crisscross modern window equal concerns of prop protective grille in a majority grill design S erty owners, when they of Indian homes. This ever- For those who like simplic- think of finding the right win- green style continues to charm ity, as well as elegance, this un- dow grill design for home. To homebuyers across India, irre- complicated window grill de- help one make an informed spective of the vast difference sign could work wonders. In choice, we help you with some between décor styles preva- fact, these themes could even grills window design styles lent in different regions. be replicated in other areas of that fit best in the overall Simple window grill design your home, too. scheme of things. In modern homes where the French window grill design Window grill design with a residents are pressed for time for home medieval touch when it comes to property up- French windows have a time- For those who love intricate keep, window grill designs samples shown in the pictures steel are used to create grills less beauty that no other design styles, this has been an old fa- and materials that are easy to above are a case in point. To in such designs, while one offers. Moreover, these allow for vorite iron window grill de- clean and maintain, are becom- keep the cleaning and mainte- could also opt for basic iron ample natural light and ventila- sign. Little wonder then that ing increasingly popular. The nance work easy, materials like rods. tion. www.housing.com July 16, 2021 Real Estate Post India Post 25 www.indiapost.com

he Marble Palace in north Kolkata dates back to the 19th century. It Marble Palace Kolkata: A residence Tis one of the best-preserved and most appealing residences in Kolkata, famous for its sculptures, artwork, floors built with 126 types of marbles and marble walls, from which it derives its name. The Palace is situated at 46, HOUSING NEWS DESK Muktaram Babu Street with the pin code being Kolkata-700007. The Marble Palace sports the neoclassical architec- tural style. The present value of this pa- latial mansion property would run into several crores, taking its priceless arti- facts, architecture and cultural signifi- cance into account. Marble Palace history The house was constructed by wealthy Bengali merchant Raja Rajendra Mullick in 1835. He had a passion for collecting precious artwork. The house is still occupied by his descendants. Raja Rajendra Mullick Bahadur was the adopted son of the famous Nilmoni Mullick who built the Jagannath Temple, which dates back even earlier than the Marble Palace. It still exists within the Marble Palace's premises while being accessible solely for family members. The neoclassical architectural style of the Marble Palace encompasses open courtyards, which is a traditional touch in Bengal. Next to the courtyard, there is the Thakur-Dalan where the family Vol Des Cigognes De Jean-Christophe Marble Palace architecture There are also sculptures of Homer to deity is worshipped. The three-storied Grangé is set within the Marble Palace. The house is built with 126 types of Diana, Venus to Apollo, Praxiteles to Phidias building has tall Corinthian pillars, along Marble Palace Kolkata timing and marble, chosen from various parts of the and Homer to Mosses. Belgian glassware with beautifully ornamented veran- entry fee country. and game trophies are some of the prized dahs, complete with sloping roofs and The Marble Palace is still largely a pri- The palace has five halls, namely the possessions, showcased here. fretwork alike. It has been built much in vate dwelling and hence photography Painting Room, Reception Hall, Thakur The music room has a luxurious the style of a Chinese pavilion, as per is not allowed. Although there is no Dalan (place of worship), Sculpture marble inlay floor with statues of some experts. There is a sprawling gar- Marble Palace entry fee, permits should Room and the Billiards Room. Wellington and Napoleon while the ball- den within the estate, with a rock gar- be obtained in advance from the West The intricate carvings on the marble room still has candle chandeliers along den, lawns, a small zoo and a lake. Bengal Tourism Information Bureau. flooring, walls and pillars bear similarity with silvered glass balls from the origi- Marble Palace paintings nal 19th century disco ball collection. The Marble Palace is home to nu- The palace has 76 rare pieces of art merous western-era sculptures and purchased and shipped in 1830 from other pieces of Victorian furniture, Italy and Belgium. There is a huge Japa- along with paintings crafted by Indian nese bronze vase in the doorway and and European artists in tandem with the full-length Belgian glass mirrors various artifacts. Decorative objects along the walls create fascinating illu- abound, including mirrors, urns, royal sions of more space. busts, clocks, massive chandeliers and The two-cornered biocome may floor-to-ceiling mirrors. The house re- have belonged to none other than Na- portedly has two paintings by Peter poleon Bonaparte, which he wore dur- Paul Rubens including The Marriage of ing one of his military quests. St Catherine and also The Martyrdom The painting room has dimmer light- of St Sebastian. There are reportedly ing with several originals by famous two paintings done by Sir Joshua painters of the day. The art pieces are Reynolds, namely The Infant Hercules lavish and simply priceless in today's Strangling the Serpent and also Venus day and age. and Cupid. The lush green lawns have several Other artists in the collection include statues of gods from every religion and John Opie, Titian and Bartolome There are guides within the house who with the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, faith along with some exotic animals, as Esteban Murillo. There are priceless art- will help with tours, although several which was one of the Seven Wonders of well. works and other sculptures jostling parts remain out of bounds. There are the World. The fountain is also made of marble with several little objects of compara- lawns surrounding the imposing struc- The huge corridors are decked with and lies at the center of the lawn with tively lesser value. You will be surprised ture along with fountains and the pri- Victorian-era furniture, chandeliers, por- its famous statue of Leda and the Swan. to know that the noted French novel Le vate Marble Palace zoo. traits and sculptures galore. www.housing.com 26 India Post Horoscope July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com Your Weekly Future by VANEET SHARMA JULY 16TH to JULY 22ND 2021

MAR 21 to APRIL 20 JUN 21 to JULY 22 SEP 23 to OCT 22 DEC 22 to JAN 19

he beginning of ome good news he beginning of ou might be bit T the week is fa- S regarding the T the week is Y frustrated be- vorable for specula- elimination of family going to be excellent cause of health related tion, share market in- related tensions for sudden gain of trivial issue however vestment, entertain- would please you in money and increase in there is no need to ment business, relations with children, the beginning of the week. There income because of your glorious perfor- lose patience as it shall get cured shortly. and love life. This is right time to take would be financial betterment with a mance in your area of work. The mid days The mid of the week is auspicious for decisions regarding making plans for the decent inflow of money. You would be of the week won't be auspicious for your going on beneficial journeys. The jour- future of children. For students it is aus- planning to purchase some vehicle or children's health, state of mind and ac- ney would be related to business or else picious time to take final decision regard- jewelry too. Your increased confidence complishing your tasks on time. The re- you might go to address a social gather- ing education. The mid of the week is not would tempt you to work for public, maining days of the week you will be ing somewhere. The support of broth- good for health. End of week would be friends and relatives in the middle of taking all necessary steps for the im- ers would prove instrumental for the en- extremely auspicious for conjugal bliss. the week. provement of your health. hancement of your destiny.

APRIL 21 to MAY 20 JULY 23 to AUG 22 OCT 23 to NOV 22 JAN 20 to FEB 19

he beginning of he beginning of the our unique talent he destiny and ad T the week indi- T week gives an indica- Y of manage- T vice of spouse cates problems of tion of lethargy, tired- ment in handling the shall help you earn mood swings, tensions ness, physical weak- complicated issues more gains. There regarding the health of ness, lack of confidence would win special rec- would be better com- mother. The middle of the week appears to and energy. Your success in restoring ognition as you would earn fame by turn- patibility between you and your spouse. be favorable for your education and chil- working efficiency and confidence ing government and authority in your The mid of the week won't be auspicious dren. The guidance of friends would tempt would prove to be very average. In the favor but remember some seniors shall for your health, happiness, confidence you to invest in share market and other middle of the week you would find your- be jealous of you and they might de- and working efficiency. You would suf- speculative activities. The remaining part of self slightly better in association with velop a tendency to conspire against you fer from the problems of mood swings the week is giving an indication of possibil- your family members but even then the so don't disclose your plan of action to and expenses would go out of control. It ity of solution for the problems caused by lack of confidence would not let you en- others. The mid part of the week indi- would be difficult to accomplish your enemies and in addition to that you would joy life peacefully. The remaining days of cates gain from speculation and gam- tasks however journeys would bring lot be able to take some concrete decision. the week shall be good. bling. of pleasure.

MAY 21 to JUN 20 AUG 23 to SEP 22 NOV 23 to DEC 21 FEB 20 to MAR 20

ome good news re he beginning of ou might go on a bstain from pay S garding the T the week is not Y journey to re- A ing bribe to elimination of family favorable for accom- fresh your mood. The bankers and avoid related tensions plishing important confidence would getting into some ille- would please you in tasks undertaken start coming back gal activities. The mid the beginning of the week. There would therefore this time should not be con- gradually. The mid days of the week of the week indicates that you would be be financial betterment with a decent sidered favorable for starting any new would be perfect for your confidence spending lot of money on your spouse inflow of money. You would be planning task. You might have to go on some tire- and the progress in work would keep and in addition to that there is strong prob- to purchase some vehicle or jewelry too. some journeys which might cause prob- you satisfied. You would be getting the ability that you might visit a beautiful hill Your increased confidence would tempt lems like loss of health and money and in favor of your senior bosses, government station of tourist attraction along with your you to work for public, friends and rela- the process the problem of mood swings officials which is auspicious for increase spouse. There would be excellent conju- tives in the middle of the week. During is sure to chase. The mid & concluding in your reputation and credibility as a gal bliss in your married life. The conclud- weekend days you would have some fa- part of the week is auspicious as you professional. The remaining days of the ing part of the week is not auspicious for tigue, mental worries etc. would be focusing all your energies. week are auspicious for inflow of money. your health.

Kindly read the predictions from your ascendant sign. If you do not know your ascendant sign then read the VANEET same from Moon sign. If Moon sign is also not known then read it from the Zodiac sign. The ascendant sign which is SHARMA calculated from the birth details viz. date, month, year, time & place of birth gives 85 % accurate predictions. The 510-648-4899 accuracy of predictions from Moon sign get limited to only 50 %. The predictions from Zodiac sign are only 25 % “Felicitated and accurate. In nutshell the predictions from ascendant sign are most accurate. In getting personality analysis the traits honored by then President of India Shri given by ascendant sign are 100 % accurate and that is the essence of Vedic Astrology. Pranab Mukherjee" July 16, 2021 Classifieds India Post 27 www.indiapost.com

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RIYAZ KHAN: (562) 881- 5342 NEW YORK / NEW JERSEY or Email: [email protected] Naresh:510-938-8667 28 India Post OP-ED July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com Philosophy Hindu-Muslim brotherhood: U.G.KRISHNAMURTI social value. Nature has no use for me, and neither has society. By using the models of Will RSS chief's sage counsel mark a new nswers to all your problems have to Jesus, Buddha, or Krishna we have de- Acome from you, not from these yogins stroyed the possibility of nature throwing beginning for Hindutva groups? and meditators. You may be making a tre- up unique individuals. AMULYA GANGULI mendous mistake. This is what I tell the West- Those who recommend that you forget ern psychologists also. You have no objec- your own natural uniqueness and be like he right-wing Rashtriya tudes based on the supposed tive relationship with the data and knowl- someone else, no matter how saintly that Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) occa alienness of the two minority commu- edge you collect. Your constant interpreta- person may be, is putting you on the wrong T sionally takes note of India's plu- nities also manifest themselves in oc- tion of data means that you are involved in track. It is like the blind leading the blind. ralism even if multicultural tenets are casional acts of lynching, which have what you are studying; there is no separate When dealing with these yogins and supposed to be anathema to its Hindu- been condemned by Bhagwat. entity. It is the interpreter that is of the great- holy men the first wrong turn you take is in centric ideology. What prompts the or- While much of the seemingly in- est importance. trying to relate the way they are function- ganization with its long-established grained anti-minority sentiments Man has to understand himself first. Are ing with the way you are functioning. sectarian background to take a bow in among the followers of the RSS and the the data and knowledge -and the theories What they are describing may not be re- the direction of the nation's diversity is BJP (not to mention their allied outfits you derive from them - going to help in this lated to the way you are functioning at all. never specified. But this gesture can- like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the regard? From the point of view of knowl- Uniqueness is not something which can be not be unrelated to the political envi- Bajrang Dal) have been known for de- edge, there is no way of understanding turned out in a factory. ronment, although this is unlikely ever cades, what is intriguing is the reason yourself. The computer machine never asks Society is interested only in the status to be admitted by either the RSS or its for the change of stance indicated by itself, "How am I functioning?" quo and has provided all these so-called political mate, India's ruling Bharatiya Bhagwat. There have been other occa- Really understanding yourself demands special individuals so that you'll have Janata Party (BJP). sions, too, when he has spoken in a not the mere accumulation of data, but a models to follow. You want to be like that The latest example of this stance is the similar vein as with foreign journalists quantum jump. I like to use the example of fellow - the saint, the savior, or the revolu- RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's castigation of in September 2019, to clear "miscon- Newtonian physics. Within the Newtonian tionary - but it is an impossibility. Your soci- those Hindus who deny Muslims the ceptions" about the saffron brother- framework, things work in a certain way. ety, which is only interested in turning out right to live in India and his assertion hood. However, since these have per- Another scientist eventually comes along copies of acceptable models, is threatened about the brotherhood of the two com- sisted, as Bhagwat's latest clarifications who is able to drop the Newtonian as- by real individuality because it [individu- munities because their DNA is the same show, an explanation for the renewed on account of their common ancestry. effort to present the Hindutva Understanding yourself Considering how this declaration goes worldview is seemingly warranted. against, say, Uttar demands a quantum jump Pradesh's - India's These stridently anti-Muslim and anti-Christian most populous articulations can be said to constitute the and electorally You want to be like that fellow - the crucial state - bedrock of the Hindutva weltanschauung and saint, the savior, or the revolutionary hardline chief are routinely voiced by both the saffron minister Yogi - but it is an impossibility Adityanath's dif- leaders and their rank and file U.G.Krishnamurti ferentiation be- tween the Bajrang Balis (Hindus) and Alis The Muslim factor in UP sumptions and thereby is able to perceive ality] threatens its continuity. A truly (Muslims) or Union minister Giriraj But why now? Is it because of the a whole new dimension of physics. unique person, having no cultural refer- Singh's regret that there was no ex- realization that the political gains, Just as Newtonian principles eventually ence point, would never know that he is change of population at the time of par- which the BJP has made with its polar- became a strait-jacket strangling creative unique. tition so that there wouldn't have been izing tactics, have reached the satura- thought, so your data about human If you drop the fictitious models of the any Muslims in India, it is obvious that the tion point and that any further baiting uniqueness bars your looking at things, in- saint and holy man, you are left with the RSS chief's comments mark a drastic re- of Muslims can become counter-pro- cluding yourself, anew. natural biological arrangement. The sepa- versal of the Hindutva camp's customary ductive? Or has the RSS come to be- I like to use the example of Picasso. He rative structure of thought, which was in- divisive formulation. lieve that at a time of a perceived gov- had the same problem: he wanted to break troduced into the consciousness of man It is worth recalling that this discor- ernance deficit in dealing with a medi- new ground, find new techniques. He long ago, has created the violent world. dant thesis owes its origin to a former RSS cal emergency because of Covid-19, it achieved a breakthrough and eventually Excerpted from 'Mind is a Myth'. The Sarsanghchalak (head) M.S. Golwalkar's is necessary to win the trust of all com- became a model for others. Very cheap art- 103rd birth anniversary of characterization of Muslims as Internal munities and not only of the Hindus? ists are now imitating his style. U.G.Krishnamurti was observed on July 9. "Enemies No 1" and another Hindutva stal- The BJP's need for reaching out to the So, one day, Einsteinian physics will wart, V.D. Savarkar's belief that Muslims Muslims is perhaps all the greater in UP have to step aside for a fresh system of and Christians are essentially aliens even where they constitute 19.3 percent of 50 SPIRITUAL APPETIZERS knowledge. I submit that nature is attempt- if they are born in India because their the 220 million population. Given the fre- Vinod Dhawan ing to create a unique individual every time "punyabhu" or holy lands are in Mecca quent visits of the RSS top brass to the something is created. Nature does not seem “It’s a lovely book. It feels en- and Rome, unlike those of the Hindus. state, it is obvious that both the RSS and to use anything as a model. When once it ergetically clear and light. It’s These stridently anti-Muslim and the BJP are uneasy about the latter's has perfected a unique individual, that in- easy to read, dip in and out and anti-Christian articulations can be said prospects in the state assembly elec- dividual is thrown off the evolutionary most importantly it offers infor- to constitute the bedrock of the tions early next year even if the latest dis- mation without fluff! Blessings process and is of no further interest to na- Hindutva weltanschauung and are rou- trict council election results have been ture. on this project.” Jac O’Keeffe tinely voiced by both the saffron lead- satisfactory. South Asia Monitor This is why whatever I am, whatever I say, Spirituality teacher based in ers and their rank and file. Violent atti- For detailed story visit www.indiapost.com cannot be duplicated by another. Therefore, USA. being incapable of transmission, it has no Available on AMAZON, FLIPKART Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author July 16, 2021 OP-ED India Post 29 www.indiapost.com The confused US withdrawal from Afghanistan MAJ GEN MANDIP SINGH

he recent attacks by that the Afghan security way mitigate the problems of Taliban in Baghlan, Farah, forces can fight," Milley, who keeping Afghan Air Force in T Kunduz, Herat, Takhar, had previously served in Af- the air. Gen Mark Milley ac- Helmand, Ghazni and ghanistan, added. cepts that "[M]aintaining lo- REBOOTING INDIA Badakhshan provinces and the "We've been supporting gistic support to the Afghan ecent reshuffling of council of ministers in India may sur capture of Dahla dam which them, for sure, but they've Air Force is a key test that we Rprise many but it is the best move Modi has done keep- supplies water to Kandahar been leading the fight." have to sort out", and even ing in view the current situation the country faces. town should be a curtain raiser That is not how a former US hinted that some contractors Multiple issues starting with handling of Pandemic, the for those who ardently watch commander who crafted US could return to Afghanistan economy, unemployment, skirmishes at borders, rising oil the story unfold in Afghanistan. strategy in Iraq and Afghani- after the withdrawal is com- prices and poor results in some state elections by the ruling As on May 1, 139 pro-gov- stan, Gen. David Petraeus as- plete. party. Modi's new team of young and highly qualified minis- ernment and 44 civilians had sesses the situation. In an in- In fact the SIGAR (Special In- ters, with varied background including medical, engineer- lost their lives in just a week terview he said, "I do fear that spector General for Afghani- ing and senior bureaucrats,could bring the change most alone. On April 14, 2021, Presi- two to three years from now stan Reconstruction) report needed. Experts see this as a major shakeup, with the clear dent Joe Biden promised to we are going to look back and released on April 30, 2021 message that he means business. end the "Forever war" by an- regret the decision to with- stated that the Afghan Air The reshuffling also saw the exit of several senior leaders nouncing a full US pull out on draw the remaining 3,500 US Force could be grounded from the party. Besides bringing younger ministers, the new September 11, 2021, largely troops," enthusing no confi- "within months without the team has inducted ministers from backward classes and in- out of symbolism to com- dence in the abilities of the current level of contractor creased the representation of women. Modi has realized memorate the 20th year of ANDSF to stabilize Afghani- support". (italics mine). The that if India wants to compete with China and globally, he Global War on Terror (GWOT). stan post the withdrawal. SIGAR report is more candid needs the right people manning the key ministries. India has as it quotes US military lead- been lagging behind manufacturing, telecom, power gen- It is quite apparent that even the US army is ership expressing their reser- eration, infrastructure and healthcare. Hopefully the new vations and concerns at the changes in these areas might bring some progress. surprised by the sudden turn of events. capabilities of the ANDSF to A key area has been disinvestment of Public Sector Units defend Afghanistan. Consider The confusion in the US army is compounded including the national carrier Air India. The government of these statements in the run up India has been trying hard to accelerate the process but the by the contradictory statements emerging to Biden's speech of April 14, results aren't visible. For example, there is a huge shortage 2021. from the US military leadership of chip manufacturers globally, mainly due to restrictions by On February 20, 2021, US US companies importing from China. Secretary of Defense Lloyd This is where India needs to step in and collaborate with But soon after the announce- In fact he even predicted Austin linked the US with- countries like Taiwan to revamp global and domestic de- ment, it is becoming apparent the return of ISIS and be- drawal to a reduction in that the US has not thought lieved, "This is not going to Taliban attacks. "The violence mand. Another area is healthcare industry, where India can through the larger implica- end the endless war in Af- must decrease now." play a major role as seen with the production of vaccines. tions of this decision. ghanistan; it is going to end The same day, on February The Indian pharma sector has been doing very well and it It is quite apparent that even the US and the coalition in- 20, 2021, General Kenneth F. can further enhance their collaboration with world leaders. the US army is surprised by the volvement in that war militar- McKenzie, in a meeting with India's Tourism industry needs to reboot its potential. sudden turn of events. The con- ily" and warned of resurgence Pakistani officials, warned that India's climate and diversity of cultural heritage has im- fusion in the US army is com- of Daesh. an early US pullout could risk mense potential. Hospitality industry needs massive invest- pounded by the contradictory For instance, the recent the collapse of the Afghan ment in the medium scale category. There are enough high- statements emerging from the Taliban attacks have seen des- government. end five star hotels in the country but for Indian tourism to US military leadership. perate calls for the Afghan Air On March 13, 2021, the move upward it needs to provide affordable infrastructure. "It's not a foregone conclu- Force to assist the ground commander of US and allied This will not only create employment but also bring huge sion, in my professional mili- troops in fighting the Taliban. forces in Afghanistan, General foreign investments. tary estimate, that the Taliban The Afghan Air Force is almost Austin Scott Miller, expressed Modi has been pushing several initiatives in the area of automatically win and Kabul entirely dependent on the US concerns at the capabilities of climate change. India must encourage the use of renewable falls," said General Mark Milley, for its force sustenance and the Afghan air force saying energy like solar, wind, etc., to meet its need for power & the chairman of the Joint would be ineffective unless that "When you start talking electricity as these resources are also unlimited and sustain- Chiefs of Staff, while speaking this support is assured. about removing our pres- able. at the Pentagon on 6 May The US has indicated that it ence... certain things like air, Rapidly increasing population is perhaps the biggest 2021 even as Afghan Army would be capable of support- air support, and maintenance menace that India faces currently. Problems like poverty, il- causalities began to mount in ing operations from its air of that air support become literacy, unemployment, pollution, crime, etc., all have roots Taliban attacks within the bases in close proximity of Af- more and more problematic". in its over-population. India is the second most populated week. He even came out in ghanistan like the Middle East IANS country after China & unless the nation takes some effective support of the ANDSF and and has been actively courting steps to check population growth, India can't become a su- their capabilities announcing Uzbekistan as a possible des- For detailed stories visit www.indiapost.com per power it wants to be. By providing free & compulsory that "I'm a personal witness -- tination. But that does in no education to children, as well as to uneducated adults, India Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal to the author could achieve the rapid development it needs. 30 India Post www.indiapost.com July 16, 2021

arlier the wettest place flora and natural attractions. Al- include cave formations such as Decker Living Root Bridge; Garden. It was declared as the on the Earth, Cherrapunji though Mawsynram is now the the Mawsmai Caves and Krem more commonly known as the cleanest village in Asia in 2003 Ein Meghalaya, also known wettest place on earth, Phyllut. Asia's cleanest village, Umshiang Double Decker Liv- by Discovery India, which cer- as Sohra, is known for its Cherrapunji still holds the Mawylyngnong is another fa- ing Root Bridge or simply just tainly which makes it one of the double-decker living root record for the highest recorded mous tourist spot here, where the Double Decker Root Bridge. most popular tourist destina- bridge. Located around 50 Kms rainfall in a calendar year. Apart visitors can live and experience This area is famous for root tions in the Indian state. from Shillong, this sub-divi- from the famous living root the food and culture of the village. bridges made of Indian Rubber Mawlynnong village is a com- sional town is famous for its rich bridge, other natural attractions The misty valleys and the Tree, but the Double Decker munity-based ecotourism ini- waterfalls in the region make a Bridge is the most famous of all tiative where the entire com- long drive through Cherrapunji due to its large size. munity made collective efforts ideal for those who love road Dawki: A small border town in making and maintaining the trips. The breathtaking pan- in the Jaintia Hills, Dawki and its cleanliness of the village. oramic views of the valley and famed river Umngot or the Nohkalikai Waterfalls: The waterfalls such as the famous Dwaki River is a must-visit if in fourth highest waterfalls in the Nohkalikai Waterfalls are won- Meghalaya. Sandwiched be- world, Nohkalikai falls plunge derful experiences to be had tween India and Bangladesh, some 335 meters from a ver- during the sunny winter days. For Dawki is a major center of trade dant cliff to the ground giving those with a bit of time on their between India and Bangladesh. the portrayal of immense and hands, the town of Dawki at the The small city, besides being a natural magnificence. The pride border with Bangladesh offers a trade hub is also famous for its of the state of Meghalaya, the wonderful clearwater boating tourism scene, with many falls are one of the most beauti- experience in the winter season. people flocking to the town in ful and grand waterfalls in the Places to visit in order experience a boat ride in country. Tucked in between ev- Cherrapunjee its famed Umngot River and ergreen rainforest of the Khasi Double Decker Living Root enjoy the nearby sights and Hill and flowing with all its maj- Bridge: Hidden deep in the sounds. esty and might, the falls lush, green forests of the wet- Mawlynnong: Mawlynnong plunges into a lagoon, which is test place in India: is a small village situated as blue as the afternoon sky. Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya; one around 90 km from Shillong in www.holidify.com can find the magnificent the East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya For detailed story visit Jingkieng Nongriat Double and is also known as God's own www.indiapost.com July 16, 2021 India Post 31 www.indiapost.com 32 India Post July 16, 2021 www.indiapost.com