CONTENTS

Editor-in-Chief Sadhna Joshi, Ph.D., D.Sc. E-mail: [email protected]

Editor Swati Bhatt Vyas E-mail: [email protected]

Editorial board Lata Champsee Nareshkumar N. Chavda Pankaj Dave Sharmishtha Joshi Azad K. Kaushik

Advisory Board Ramesh Chotai Darpan Patel Santhosh Prabhu Deepak Ruparell

© National Alliance of Indo-Canadians, April 15, 2015 Editor’s Note

The National Alliance of Indo-Canadians (NAIC) is a not-for-profit organization working towards strengthening ties and promoting cooperation between Canada and India, while advancing the shared values of democracy, inclusive economic development and mutual respect that we all cherish. It aims to strengthen social bonds among Canadians, irrespective of religion, race and creed to generate oneness and brotherhood.

NAIC has organized a community reception on April 15, 2015, which will be held at the Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto to welcome the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi to Canada. The presence of the honourable Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper, who will preside the function, will enhance and glorify the atmosphere of this event. In honour of the Prime Minister’s visit, the NAIC has published this magazine as a commemorative souvenir of this event. A special hard copy edition of the magazine will be presented to the Honourable Prime Ministers of India and Canada at the reception. In addition, over 10,000 copies of this magazine will be distrib- uted to the attendees, as well as to key officials in India, Canada and other countries.

In May 2014, Shri Narendra Modi became the prime minister of India with an overwhelming majority win. Since then, he has visited numerous countries, including Australia, Brazil, Fiji, Japan, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, France, Germany, and the United States to foster trade relationship and friendship, which is also one of his primary reasons for visiting Canada. This is a historic event for all Indo-Canadians as this is the first bilateral visit of an Indian prime minister after over four decades.

India and Canada have a lot in common. Both are democratic nations who are home to a multicul- tural society. Similarly, the agriculture in both of these countries heavily contributes to their economy. English plays a key role for communication as it is one of the primary languages for both India and Canada. In addition, both of these countries are members of the United Nations. The Indian diaspora in Canada is approximately 3.8% with people of Indian origin settled all across Canada from Newfoundland and Nunavut to Toronto and Quebec. The community reception marks the recognition of Indo-Canadians who have enriched Canada in all walks of life. The Indians in Canada have established the backbone of various industries and have played key roles as industrialists, scientists, producers, professors, novelists, singers, philanthropists, business- men, engineers, physicians and much more. Canada could help India in various sectors such as infrastructure, food, education and energy. Some of the core mutual benefits for India and Canada consist of agricultural profit, education, nuclear energy and security. The strong relation- ship and growing friendship between India and Canada set an example for the rest of the world with regards to economy and trades.

On behalf of National Alliance of Indo-Canadians, the editorial team and myself, I welcome the Prime Ministers of India and Canada.

Sadhna Joshi, Ph.D., D.Sc., Editor-in-chief

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The organizing committee of National Alliance of Indo-Canadians invited Honourable Prime Minister Stephen Harper to preside over the Community Reception to welcome Honourable Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Toronto on April 15, 2015 (L to R: Deepak Ruparell, Vikram Khurana, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Dr. Azad K. Kaushik and Ramesh Chotai)

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Dr. Azad K. Kaushik

ertain events in the history order from wherein the famous of universe and life, basis of health of humankind cannot be Vedic scriptures originated (Rigveda and longevity, underlying philoso- Cexplained by the theory of being the oldest book available phy of yoga, creating a social order evolution highlighted by none other to humanity originally sustained etc. and produced great thinkers, for than the art historian and scholar through oral traditions), the source example Chanakya, whose contri- Kenneth Clark in the landmark of knowledge, an experience of butions found universal resonance. series ‘Civilization’, for example, realization of soul and its relation- This ancient wisdom in simplified sudden appearance of civilizations ship with the divine spirit that could form got attention in the writings 3000 BC (Egypt, Mesopotamia and lead one to sublime heights. Indeed, of British author Brian Hodgkin- Indus Valley), miracle of Ionia and spirituality exists in the heart of all son who focused on essence of Greece in late 6 BC when philosophy, life and the laws governing spiritual Shankara’s ‘Advaita Vedanta’. science, art and poetry flourished, growth are as exact as those Such a tradition of thinking spread and the outpouring of energy that discovered by science in nature, to American shores and produced led to the industrial revolution in noted Lizelle Reymond, in her one of ‘Men of Letters’ in 19th century that first Century Western Europe. In the books, ‘My Life with a Brahmin included Oliver Wendell Holmes, this context, the spiritual enlight- family’, in an attempt to experi- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and enment seen in India is unparal- ence spirituality. Such moorings James Russell Lowell. In Canada, leled in the history of humankind allowed human mind to explore and streaks of such thinking, among that helped create an intellectual question matters such as the origin others, is so evident in the recent 20 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| philosophical writings of John sheer virtues, Indo-Canadians are places and practices character- Ralston Saul. An intellectual order a shining example of those whose ize the Canadians of Indian origin with a spiritual inkling thrives to contributions to Canada, their reflecting the pluralistic traditions the day as a cornerstone of human adopted homeland, are so remark- intrinsic to common thread of their thinking, aspirations and values able and obvious. Not the least, they civilizational and spiritual heritage. and would continue to shape the continue to create new opportuni- With simple traditions of tolerance, future of humankind, as so far. So, ties by fostering fruitful relation- non-violence, Dharma and good East has met West. ships with India, the unforgettable Karma, Indo-Canadian’s practice land of their origin and civilizational the values that strengthen the The Indo-Canadians as a heritage, and the world at large. society and multicultural heritage of community are uniquely poised The Indo-Canadians do contrib- Canada. with the best of both East and West ute their share towards ‘World to be able to contribute towards the Swami Vivekananda, the renowned Thought’ by helping raise the level growth of a dynamic and vibrant spiritual Guru of the world, taught of human consciousness for the Canadian society in a globalized that peace depended upon social betterment of humanity. Essentially, and well-connected world today. It peace intricately linked to individ- they have succeeded in promoting is not without reason that Indo-Ca- ual peace that is intertwined with global citizenship based on univer- nadians participate in all aspects spiritual awakening within an sal values inherited from the civili- of national life of Canada, be it individual. For this reason, the zational awareness of ‘Vasudhaiva politics, media, sports, business or peace or well-being of people Kutumbakam’, meaning that the education, and contribute towards cannot be sustained just by political Earth indeed is a family, so are its a just society that all Canadi- reforms, economic regeneration or inhabitants. Hundreds of organi- ans aspire for. Given their growing increased comforts of life but by the zations with diverse worship success in various fields by their inner awakening alone. Similarly, advances in science and technol- ogy, supposed to usher prosperity has failed to sustain and promote unity of existence, simple because the divinity of the soul has been ignored. Given their determination, grit and civilizational roots together with newly occurring scientific and social transformations, it goes without saying that Indo-Cana- dians are truly ‘Incredible’ as they bring in ‘change for the better’ for entire humanity in 21st century. Thank you for being an incredible Indo-Canadian!

Azad K. Kaushik, D.Sc. (Paris) is an Immunologist and Inventor; President of National Alliance of Indo-Cana- dians; President, World Brahman Federation Canada.

20 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 21 A New Beginning in Canada-India Relations

V. I. Lakshmanan and L. Prasher

fter much anticipation Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson dian population is a ready, able following the election of receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, the and willing catalyst for the rapid Athe new government under formation of the Shastri Institute blossoming of trade and other Prime Minister Modi, the moment named after India’s then Prime relations between Canada and India. that Canada India Foundation and Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and the The formation of Canada India members of the Indo-Canadian CANDU nuclear reactor becoming Foundation (CIF), as a non-par- community had been waiting for is Canada’s brand identity in India. tisan public policy organization, After those days, however, nearly finally here, the first state visit by an represented a natural evolution for four decades went by without a Indian Prime Minister to Canada in the Indian diaspora community, major diplomatic breakthrough. nearly four decades. moving from settling in, growing a Ironically, during the same time, family, pursuing careers, achiev- Admittedly Canada-India relations encouraged by Canada’s newly ing economic stability and then had settled into an uneasy lull after enlightened immigration policies, prosperity, all the time retaining its the heady days of the 60’s when hundreds of thousands of Indian cultural values, thanks to the spirit Canada and India were seen as the citizens, along with their counter- and practice of multiculturalism voices of reason in what was then a parts from countries around the here, as well as its ties with India. highly polarized world, and formed world started making Canada their the core of many a peacekeeping home. It turned out to be the best A milestone in Canada India missions around the globe. This was investment Canada has made, as relations was reached in 2008 when the period that saw Canada’s then the highly prosperous Indo-Cana- CIF, in the first of the many initia- 22 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| tives since its formation, facilitated as appropriate. Even as all of us are only be easily achievable, but should a closed door meeting between eagerly awaiting and anticipating force a rethink of the target to at Canada’s Prime Minister Stephen the signing of CEPA during the visit least $30 billion, especially with the Harper and India’s former President, of Prime Minister Modi to Canada, breakthrough in the nuclear sector.” A.P.J Abdul Kalam, along with India’s then High Commissioner to Canada, R.L. Narayan. Two CIF executives were the only privileged observers of the meeting where the breakthrough idea of civil nuclear cooperation was first mooted. So it was natural that, when CIF organized the first of its many theme forums on Canada-In- dia relations, the Canada India Energy Forum 2009, the most signifi- cant recommendation coming out of the event was for a speedy conclu- sion of the civil nuclear treaty.

CIF has followed up its Energy forum with equally successful forums on it is important to recall what CIF As stated during its submission, CIF Mining (2010), Agriculture and Food executives said during a submission hopes that the final CEPA agreement processing (2012) and Infrastructure to the House of Commons Standing will incorporate most, if not all, of (2014), each with 50-60 speakers from both countries presenting, discussing and recommending ideas, opportunities and action plans in each theme sector. This year, CIF will be organizing its fifth forum, the Canada India Healthcare Summit 2015, which will tackle both the business and social themes of healthcare, in particular, highlight- ing ‘Make in India’ opportunities for prescription drugs, and charting the path towards assurance of univer- sal health and long-term care for citizens of India.

It is to the credit of Canadian democratic values that during Committee on International Trade. the following recommendations to the course of the lengthy negotia- They said, “With a comprehensive realize a higher bilateral trade target: approach to addressing the top five tions with India on Comprehensive • Facilitate the temporary entry and areas of partnership reflecting both Economic Partnership Agreement legitimate delivery of professional Canada’s strength and India’s need, (CEPA), Canada’s Department of services between our two countries, i.e. Energy, Agriculture, Education, Foreign Affairs continued to update such as to allow ease of temporary Mining and Infrastructure (includ- CIF and other prominent Indo-Ca- professional travel. A more progres- ing water), the current target of $15 nadian organizations on the sive approach to enable hi-tech billion in bilateral trade should not progress, seeking input and advice workers to come to Canada, 22 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 23 especially when they would form the tual property protection. group made up of Indian parliamen- core of a foreign investment initiative tarians be formed, as well as a joint There is a tendency to view relations from India. This would also address group made up of parliamentarians between two countries strictly the shortage of such workers here on from both countries, all to continue through the eyes and statistics of a permanent basis. to identify and push their respective trade. This, of course, is a simplistic governments towards partnership • Removal of tariff barriers, which tendency because trade by its very for mutual gain in specific areas. impede market access for Canadian nature is subject to the uncertain- exporters. ties of market, and if not backed up Interaction between Canada and by a strong and vibrant people-to- India can take place at multiple • Phase in the lifting of tariff barriers. people and institution-to-institu- levels and domains. The levels are For certain industries, longer transi- tion relations, and strengthened by federal, provincial and munici- tion periods will be needed for them a common sense of political purpose pal and the domains are business, to adapt to a new context of tariff- and approach to global situations, academic, cultural and social. CIF free Canada-India trade. One area, the vision of strong relations could has supported Canadian initiatives which has not realized its trade at all three government levels, as well potential, due to excessive tariffs, as academic, business and social is high-end textiles, and with lifting interactions. CIF Members have of tariff barriers, the trade volume joined Prime Minister’s and Provin- would grow. cial Premiers’ delegations to India • Tackle non-tariff barriers. Regula- and have advised municipal delega- tory approaches and standards differ tions as well. CIF members have across jurisdictions. CIF advocates also supported numerous academic regulations based on internation- institutions in either setting up India ally accepted norms. Limits also centres or in developing ties with need to be placed on the number Indian institutions. and scope of regulations such that With the buzz about Prime Minister they not exceed what is necessary Modi’s visit, highlighted by the to achieve the World Trade Organi- public event and hopefully by a turn into a mirage. zation Technical Barriers to Trade formal conclusion of CEPA, it is Agreement. One of the important elements of tempting to recall the closing quote • Canadian businesses, which are the multi-dimensional matrix of from the protagonist of the movie, commercially or financially impacted country-to-country relations is Casablanca, “I think this is the by technical barriers or regulatory that of political interaction, not just beginning of a beautiful relation- measures, should be permitted to be government to government, but ship”. It is a relationship that Canada part of a transparent consultation also directly between its elected India Foundation will do its best to process. representatives. CIF was a catalyst sustain and strengthen in its own in the formation of the Canada India small way. • Inclusion of services as part of Inter-parliamentary Friendship CEPA, given that the same represent Group, made up of Canadian federal V. I. Lakshmanan and L. Prasher are nearly 75% of Canada’s GDP. parliamentarians from all major the Chair and National Convenor, Canadian financial companies in political parties and has since contin- respectively, of Canada India particular face significant restric- ued to hold regular meetings with Foundation (CIF) tions on foreign direct investment this group to express and emphasize in India’s banking and insurance the importance of ties with India, sectors. with specific recommendations for action. It has been the fondest hope • Ensure high standards of intellec- of CIF that a similar multi-party 24 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| PM Modi’s visit: Energizing Canada-India Partnership

Dharma P. Jain

s Indian Prime Minister Modi arrives in Canada of Indian Diaspora, Small and Medium Enterprises. Some for a three-day visit, Indo-Canadians would like of the recommendations include: to think that the stars are favourably aligned A • Building of stronger communication and linkages for realising the vision of comprehensive economic among industry, businesses and academia so as to partnership between Canada and India. reduce the perception gap about opportunity for develop- The recent visit of Ed Fast, Federal Minister of Interna- ing trade and investment. tional Trade is indicative of Canada accelerating the conclusion of complex negotiations on Comprehensive • Canadian SMEs considering investing in Special Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Economic Zones (SEZ) in India for setting up production units of goods in collaboration with partners in India for We in the Chamber believe that Canada and India has supply to India as well as export to other South Asian and a lot of scope for working together in the sectors such South East Asian countries. as aerospace, education and skill development, energy, food security, infrastructure, information technology, • Both national governments should strive to facili- railways, science and technology. tate mutually beneficial exchanges between Canadian self-sufficient high tech small-scale industries and their The ICCC report released in December 2014 on “Unlock- Indian customers. ing the Potential of Canada-India Partnership: Present Initiatives and Future Agenda” has come out with import- • Upgrading of credentials of students from India who ant recommendations that include bridge-building role have additional Canadian education and experience 24 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 25 should be exercised, as this would contribute to building networks are the key to developing people to people of partnership in education and skill development. connections that are needed in this respect.

• Substantial augmentation of scholarship programs. • Greater use may be made of social media for facilitat- ing engagement and communication of Canadian youth, • Canadian companies setting up more R&D centres especially Indo-Canadians with their counterparts in in India and thereby profiting from availability of cost areas of technology, culture, entrepreneurship, education effective research talent in India. and health care.

• Academia, industry, business and government in both • Connections should be built through businesses and countries developing partnerships dedicated to the institutions. Developing these business networks could exploration of new agricultural techniques and technol- occur through various chambers of commerce and ogies and for promoting food security in the overall economic organisations. This is important for SMEs context of bilateral trade relationship. entering Indian market.

India has been recognized as a priority market in the • Innovation as an instrument of change supports Canada’s Global Market’s Action Plan 2013. To keep the sustainable growth and better utilisation of the resources.

momentum of its India Centric activities and branding The two countries should enhance collaboration in key of India in Canada and of Canada in India, ICCC has areas of scientific research that shows the potential of a been continuously working with various stakehold- nurturing relationship. ers in both the countries. ICCC was invited by the then Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs to be its partner in Following this highly successful event, Indo-Can- organising the historical 2011 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas ada Chamber of Commerce was bestowed the Pravasi Canada (PBD Canada 2011) in Toronto. This convention Bharatiya Samman award, 2012 by the President of India. of Indian Diaspora in North America extensively debated The Canadian governments both at federal and provin- the theme of “Building Bridges: Positioning Strategies cial levels have acknowledged the Indo-Canadian contri- for the Indian Diaspora.” The deliberations generated bution to the polity, economy and society of Canada. useful information and knowledge about prospects Further, the Indian Diaspora serves as a strong lobby for and potential for strengthening Canada-India relations economic reforms and a source of valuable help for India and Diaspora’s role for building economic bridges. to become the world’s technology lab and promote ‘Made PBD Canada 2011 convention made some important in India’ initiative. recommendations such as: The two governments have agreed on important policy • India’s growth also happens as a result of the develop- frameworks to advance the bilateral relationship. In ments in the bottom of pyramid. Diaspora and business particular, the Nuclear Cooperation Agreement signed in organisations and government of Canada need to make June 2010 and the current negotiations of the Comprehen- use of emerging opportunities from developments in sive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) expected rural areas and in tier two and tier three cities. Diaspora to conclude in near future constitute important develop- |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 26 ments in Canada-India relations. the ambitious Vibrant Gujarat investment conventions in 2011, 2013 and 2015. ICCC made a distinctive contri- Efforts have been continuing for developing areas for bution when it participated in Vibrant Gujarat events in global partnership. The recent visits of Canadian PM 2013 and 2015. For these events; ICCC brought the largest Harper (2012) and Governor General Johnston (2014) to Canadian delegation to the convention. It included India and an earlier meeting between the then External several federal, provincial and metropolitan Canadian Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and then foreign affairs leaders. The Chamber has proactively supported four Minister John Baird for starting the inaugural Canada-In- of the seven editions of the Vibrant Gujarat convention. dia Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue to discuss issues of This should pay good dividends now. mutual interest were important milestones. There has been an overwhelming response to ICCC’s Canada and India have many MoUs and agreements in Annual India Mission initiatives in India from the govern- place in fields of Health Research, Scientific and Techno- ments at all levels and the private businesses. Such logical Cooperation, Agriculture and Allied Sectors, initiatives have contributed to building ‘Brand Canada’ Mines and cooperation in Earth Sciences etc. These in India and ‘Brand India’ in Canada. At the same time, agreements have laid a strong foundation for a compre- it has enabled the Chamber to fulfill its other mandate of hensive partnership. At the same time, they also raise creating business and professional opportunities for its important questions about the need to identify appropri- members. ate implementing mechanisms and the supportive role of the Indo-Canadian diaspora. It is expected that these The year 2015 marks the beginning of a new phase in matters will receive due attention during PM Modi’s visit. Canada-India relations with the visit of Indian Prime Minister Modi, just a few months after the historic visit The visit by Indian Prime Minister Modi to Canada in April of the U.S. President to India. It is a sentiment that is 2015 is projected to generate several ideas for exploring shared by all observers of developments in Canada-India deeper two-way cooperation between the Canada and corridor. If CEPA negotiations get completed by the time India, incorporating mining, energy and food security, of the visit of Prime Minister Modi, we may well witness studies on ocean and glaciers. the birth of a significant bilateral partnership. The two countries are also important international players engaged in global discourse in areas of energy, Dharma P Jain is the president of the Indo Canada Chamber food security, health, water, terrorism and climate of Commerce (ICCC). change. They need to find a way to work together in the United Nations and relevant multilateral organiza- tions on these issues as that would be beneficial to the comprehensive partnership required between them as they progress towards knowledge-based societies.

Canada must take advantage of India’s close relation- ships with other BRICS countries; membership in the East Asia Summit, its excellent relations with ASEAN. Similarly, India needs to factor Canada’s membership in the G7, G8 and G20, NAFTA, APEC, and the Arctic Council; Canada’s vast natural resources because of it being the second largest landmass and having the largest coastline in the world.

Moving Forward Together (Chale Sath Sath)

Long before any other foreign power took note of Prime Minister Modi’s vision of rapid and inclusive economic development; Canada had the foresight for partnering in |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 27 Strengthening the Indo- Canadian Bilateral Relationship

Nivedita Shori and Prashant Shori

he very year in which India the identity of India. The annual also heart-warmed to see that Indian became an independent exhibits at Republic Day parades are culture is well represented in the Tcountry, the golden 1947, a wonderful example of this. personality of Canada. The strength- it established diplomatic relations ening ties between the two countries The same is true for Canada. This with Canada. This points to the make it even more conducive for is a land where countless cultures history of collegiality between the Indians living in Canada to experi- find representation. The multicul- two nations. While these countries ence pride and a satisfying sense of tural mosaic that is an essential well-being. Immigration relations are miles apart, there is a common feature of Canada’s identity spreads binding thread that runs in the roots are particularly notable between the message of love, harmony and Canada and India. In 2013, more of each of these nations – cultural togetherness in the world. Canada pluralism and democracy. than 33,000 Indian citizens became sets a global example of how it is permanent residents in Canada. When primary school children in possible to rise above mutual differ- With the introduction of the Start-up India are asked to write an essay ences and become accepting of Visa, Canada is targeting immigrant or prepare a speech about their each other as humans and as global entrepreneurs to provide them with country, there is definite mention citizens. an opportunity to build innovative of ‘unity in diversity’. The rich and Today, Canada is home to over a companies that can create jobs for diverse cultures and customs of million Persons of Indian Origin Canadians and compete on a global each of the states and union territo- (PIOs). Not only do these people scale. This holds immense potential ries come together as one to shape enjoy Canadian privileges, but are for Indians.

28 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| India is Canada’s largest trading partner in South Asia. There have been recent announcements about intentions of both countries to Dreams further expand trade. This is exciting for both India and Canada, as it Dreams are dreams, will strengthen the already robust Possibilities to discover, bilateral relationship. Bilateral trade A cherished desire, between Canada and India totalled A wish for the future, a record of $5.8 billion dollars in 2013, and has more than doubled An aspiration, a goal, over the last ten years. That stir mind and soul.

Being fellow members of the Believe in your dreams, Commonwealth of Nations, Canada Feel their power, and India exchange high commis- Dreams are the hopes, sioners rather than ambassa- dors. In the Canadian parliament, That inspire to achieve, Canada-India Parliamentary And whisk you away, Friendship group runs strong and On a colourful journey. helps to maintain the ties between the countries. In January 2015, the Pull dreams out of cradle, Government of Gujarat hosted a Slowly let them grow, biennial summit in India where a Hold them, make them walk, delegation from the Government of And strive to raise them, Canada highlighted the strong ties It can happen, they may fall, between the two countries. But every step is vital. The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s visit to Canada in April, Relentless you shall be, 2015 will not only strengthen the And nurture them again, bilateral relationship between the Make them stronger, two countries but will also raise the Stronger than before, confidence of the residents on both Certainly they will be, sides to continue to explore, enjoy and experience the mutual benefits A reality of your life. of each other’s culture and ideology. For anyone who dreams, Dreams to bring a change, Remember the change, Nivedita Shori, M.Sc. (Biophysics); M.A. (Education); Teacher, Peel District School Board, ON, Canada; That you see today, Editor, A Journey Within Ourselves. Was someone’s dream, A dream in yesterday. Prashant Shori, B.E., India; M.E., Australia; B.Social Work, York University, Toronto, Canada; YMCA, Meenakshi Raina, MMS, Poet and Author of the Toronto and Punjabi Community historical fiction “The Divine And The Destiny Health Services, Mississauga.

28 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 29 Why are Indo-Canadians feeling proud of their heritage?

Pictures Why are Indo- Canadians Feeling Proud of Their Heritage?

By Pradip Rodrigues

hen many of us immigrate merit. We must feel comfortable in our clung to customs and traditions that to the Western world, skins and be confident as a people. are neglected in today’s India. They Wwe yearn to fit in, not In recent years it has become easier to were so fearful of losing their culture stick out like sore thumbs. When we admit our culture and heritage because that they did all they can to insulate enter the corporate world we often India is finally in the news for all the their children from inappropriate intentionally or unintentionally hide right reasons. The economy is doing influences. When they visited India, aspects of our Indian-ness. Some well, the country is seen to be a stable they were in for a culture shock, try to distance themselves from their democracy despite its many imperfec- their relatives were more western- Indian roots, adopt mannerisms, put tions. There is change happening at ized, they didn’t feel threatened by it. on fake Canadian accents and act every level, most importantly, Indians She found the first-generation more ‘not who they are’. The second-gen- are becoming more global in their Indian than those living back in India. The second-generation she noticed eration Indo-Canadian will often keep thinking. often rebelled against their parents a distance from someone ‘fresh off Last year a visiting journalist acquain- interpretation of Indian culture and for the boat’. They will prefer to social- tance from Mumbai was in Canada them Indian culture was Bollywood ize exclusively as though they are on a short vacation, she met dozens movies which are often shot in Europe embarrassed to be seen with other of Indo-Canadians and shared her or America and the stars act more Indo-Canadians. While it is import- observations with me. The first-gen- like Hollywood wannabes. Their ant to integrate and fit in, one doesn’t eration Indo-Canadians she remarked understanding of Indian culture is so need to disown one’s culture without were living in a time warp. They superficial. Now she was generalizing

30 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| but I think she was onto something.

When I decided to immigrate to Canada 16 years ago, I have to confess I was not so proud of India. I was in fact angry that corruption and ineffi- ciency had made daily living and commuting a living hell in Mumbai. It is what drove me to come here. I am not sure I would’ve made that decision today. The economy was stagnating, the outlook was bleak and pessimis- tic, as a country we didn’t seem to be progressing on any level.

Ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the reigns, a new sense of optimism has gripped India and the Indian diaspora around the world. His charisma, boundless energy and clear vision of India has given even the most skeptical and pessimistic Indo-Cana- dian a reason to believe in India again.

I have met so many Indo-Canadians now approaching retirement age who are considering spending winters in India. The popularity and demand for Visas-on-Arrival and OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) is testament to the pull India is now exerting on the diaspora. Hundreds of thousands of second-gen- eration Indians who’ve been born and brought up in the West are now living and working across India, often to the chagrin of their parents who left in order to give their children a better life. As the Indian economy grows and more and more opportunities open up, don’t be surprised to see thousands of Indo-Canadians begin their version of Ghar Wapasi. Suddenly we are not only more confident about admitting we are of Indian origin, we are also more open to the idea of living there.

Pradip Rodrigue, Editor, CanIndia News, Mississauga Ontario.

30 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 31 Achievements of Modi Government

Ram Kamath

xpecting Good Governance, one reads the list of achievements Person of Indian Origin (PIO) and 1.25 Billion Indians created below, on each of the above indicators, Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Ehistory on May 16, 2015, when the NDA Government has excelled. schemes were merged, and both they elected BJP with an absolute What is in it for an overseas Indian? will now get life-long Indian visa. majority in one of the largest Hundreds of blacklisted Sikhs living in peaceful and democratic process. foreign countries can soon join their A stable mandate to BJP-led NDA families back in India. The govern- once again established that Truth ment has already started acting on Alone Triumphs. India’s GDP growth the issue of NRI voting including outpaces that of other G20 countries e-ballot for NRIs. making it the final destination for Economic Growth Accelerated and above normal returns at below Inflation Tamed: Using the new normal risk. methodology that calculates GDP World Bank’s Six Indicators for Good using market prices, the current fiscal Governance: 1. Voice and Account- Overseas Indian’s Life Made Easier: year 2014-2015, GDP growth is likely ability 2. Government Effectiveness. Visitors from 43 countries, instead to reach 7.4% and is expected to grow 3. Regulatory Quality 4. Rule of law of only 12 countries previously, can between 8% and 8.5% in 2015-2016. 5. Control of Corruption. 6. Political apply for their visas online and collect GDP growth outpaced that of other Stability and absence of violence. As them at 10 major Indian airports. G20 countries and trade deficit fell to 32 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| India overtook US as third biggest poor, and industrial corridors. All this steel producer. As a result of achieve- will benefit the people in rural areas, ments such as these, foreign invest- where infrastructure is inadequate. ments are flooding India resulting Which farmer will not want colleges, in huge job growth for 356 million hospitals, and railways to develop? 10-24 year olds. The government has Which farmer still wants his next started shaping plans to plant 200cr generation to travel hundreds of trees along the entire one-lakh km kilometers every day for studies? length of National Highways network Which farmer wants his family to live criss-crossing the country. Under a 17 month low. in eternal darkness without electricity this scheme, employment will be and without water to improve their Inflation rate in India had averaged generated for jobless youth. Govern- farm productivity? Reflecting ground 8.78% from 2012 until 2015, reaching ment is acting on a similar scheme reality, a survey conducted covering an all-time high of 11.16% in November, under MNREGA along state highways, 50% of land and population with 64% 2013. To tame inflation, the govern- village and district roads. participants from the rural areas, ment has established a Price Stabili- Corruption exposed and extermi- 71% agreed that the Land Bill must zation Fund of 500Cr Rupees while nated: E-revolution driven by be passed in the Parliament and 68% taking several measures to contain Information technology is used to believed that the Land Bill favoured inflation. Minimum export price was abolish corruption in a transpar- farmers. increased so that supply of essential ent. Rs one lakh crore will be spent vegetables could be increased. State Special Task Force created to bring in coming years for the same. Digital Governments were asked to establish back black money from abroad: India Program is launched to acceler- Special Courts to speedily dispose Within the first 100 days, BJP has ate the E-Revolution. The auctions of cases of hoarding and black market- initiated a series of actions to bring 67 of 204 coal blocks have generated ing. In one major step, ggovernment back black money. In the first meeting Rs 400,000 crores making all Indians increased oil import 40 times in a of the cabinet held next day after richer instead of few. ten-year agreement in exchange swearing in under the chairman- of payment in Rupees instead of US Land Reforms unleash India’s ship of PM Modi, a Special Investi- dollar. As a result, the inflation rate potential: On December 31, 2014, gation Team was constituted. Soon in India climbed down to 5.37% in the government promulgated the after, the Finance Ministry sent a February of 2015. ordinance to amend some provisions high level delegation to Switzerland. targeting only projects of public After identifying 427 people holding Credible investigations and analysis good. Private Companies (hotels, account in foreign banks 250 people indicate that protests led by foreign real estate, factories) will have to accepted possessing accounts. BJP funded NGOs against development purchase land directly from farmers created an atmosphere on the black projects had caused a presumptive at the price farmers want. Farmers money issue across the globe and loss of 2-3% to India’s GDP. Such stand to gain 4 times the market price forced a consensus among various NGOs are now under scanner. These of their land, and also entitled to 20% concerned nations to act on the government actions have led to of the original land after development terrible crime. positive sentiments and acceleration by just paying the development and of economic growth. Empowering States, Strengthening acquisition cost. The amendment Democracy and National Integrity: Creation of Jobs, priority to Entrepre- carves exceptions for which this 10% Higher share to states in central neurship and environment protection: complicated process of acquisi- taxes. Coal auction resulted in an Rs A separate ministry is created for tion will not apply such as areas of 50,000cr annual bonus for states. the skills development of the youth. the defense and security of India, Embraced the states as equal partners Make-In-India program is gathering rural infrastructure, road, highway, in the process of economic growth. momentum to speed up the pace of flyover, electrification and irrigation, Government hands funds directly progress in the area of infrastructure. affordable housing and housing for 32 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 33 to states. All these actions have led established: The Government has 2015 for the same. This will help to to stronger states causing greater ensured the passage of National prevent waste dumping in Ganga. bonding with the center. Judicial Commission Bill 2014 in Protection of Cows and ban on parliament for the appointment of Minorities protected and respected: religious conversion: Government Judges in Higher Courts. With this, the has started Rashtriya gokul mission “Government will not allow any judiciary appointment process will and allocated Rs. 500 cr for several religious group belonging to majority accelerate and be more transparent. or minority to incite hatred against programs for the protection of Cows others overtly or covertly”, PM Modi Urban facilities in rural areas and and is working towards nation-wide said, at Vigyan Bhawan celebrat- efforts made for welfare of senior ban. On religious conversion, govern- ing the elevation of Kuriakose Elias citizens: Government has initiated ment has initiated debate for total Chavara and Mother Euphrasia to Aadarsh Gaon Yojna under which ban, as per the wishes of Mahatma Sainthood on 17 February, 2015 in MPs adopt at least 3 villages by 2019 Gandhi, whose 1935 statement reads New Delhi. to cover 2500 villages. The govern- as follows: “If I had power and could ment has started Jeevan Pramaan legislate, the first thing I would ban is Yojna to provide financial aid to conversions.” senior citizens for usage of unclaimed Bank account opened for poor under money lying in saving schemes. As a Jan Dhan Yojana: The Jan Dhan result, pension holders will not have Yojana, the flagship programme of the to go to government office to give NDA government, has opened 14cr proof of life every year. new accounts across the country and Importance to attaining middle class is still counting. Of the new account aspirations and steps to raise agricul- holders, 41% have deposited more Policy weakness removed: Group of ture profitability: NDA raised the tax than Rs 14,000cr till April 2, 2015. Out ministers created under UPA govern- relief from Rs.2 lakh to Rs.2.5 lakh and of this 60% bank accounts are opened ment was unwound. Cutting red this relief extends from Rs.2.5 lakh to in rural area and 40% in urban. tape, the Prime Minister encouraged Rs.3 lakh for senior citizens. Govern- Make in India on firm footing: PM direct consultation with secretaries ment has encouraged the Krishi Modi launched Make in India and bureaucrats to take decisions. Seenchai Yojana, soil testing labora- movement on Sep 25, 2014. The FDI tories and MSP and decreased in Creation of 100 smart cities: Rs7060 Cr limit in defence sector was increased diesel prices to lower agricultural cost. was allocated in the general budget up to 49% to make this movement to create 100 smart cities. This helped BJP committed to clean Ganga: successful. Besides this, the FDI in in identifying 100 smart cities creating Government created a separate many other sectors has been simpli- new demographic distribution. ministry for Ganga and announced fied and is expected to create jobs. a project of Rs. 2,037 Cr. for Namami Clean India attracting all: To create Big success achieved on diplomatic Gange in general budget. With this, a clean India by 2019, Government front: Pakistan was given befitting the program has started to make launched a Clean India movement replies on the issue of firing on the Ganga pollution free. All industries are and created a Clean India fund. This LOC. The felicitation of PM Modi directed to install sensors by March has shaped into a national movement for cleanliness, and people are associ- ating themselves in large numbers from all walks of life. Maharashtra BJP Government alone has decided to construct 56 lakh toilets in the state by 2019.

National Judicial Commission

34 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| abroad has boosted the pride of Modi has brought drastic change in infrastructure of the country and thus Indians. Indians, who were held up work style in the government. The preventing disease and developing a due to crisis in Iraq and Yemen, were decision making process in govern- healthier community, is launched. By safely evacuated. Head of state of ment has gained momentum. To elevating to the level of an indepen- SAARC countries were invited on oath improve timely attendance of govern- dent ministry of AYUSH, encompass- taking ceremony to improve relation ment employees, steps were taken. ing Yoga, Ayurvedic Medicine, and friendship. This has also improved the produc- Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Unani tivity of Parliamentarians. and Siddha, the time-tested health Interest of farmers and poor protected culture has been honoured, as never in WTO: FDI limit increased in defence India refused to sign a before. At the sole initiation of PM sector, purchase speeded up: simplification of business agreement While Modi, June 21st has been declared as of WTO in July 2014. India made it implementing economic reforms, the the International Day of Yoga by the clear that its concern regarding food government has increased the FDI United Nations General Assembly on security and agricultural subsidy limit in defense sector from 26% to December 11, 2014. should be addressed first. Due to 49%. At present India imports 70% this stern stand of NDA Government, of its defense material. This increase National Integration, BJP becomes the US was compelled to support in FDI limit will help in the manufac- largest political organization on the Indian view. This is the biggest turing of defense equipment within planet: BJP is firmly in power sharing achievement of India in WTO. India. The government has approved arrangement in Jammu and Kashmir the purchase of defence equipment with thrust on development, such as Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay worth Rs. 80,000 cr. Along with the power generation, support to tourism Shrameva Jayate Program for hard defense sector the FDI limit in railway industry and stability of peace in the working: The Government started and infrastructure has also increased. region. Four stars general, General this program in October 2014 for (Retd.) VK Singh is Minister of State Round the clock electricity: the welfare of hard working labour- Govern- (independent charge) for North ers and employees. Under this ment has approved Deen Dayal East, shows importance to national program, a minimum pension of Upadhyay Gram Jyoti Yojana worth integration. On March 30, 2015, Rs1000 was fixed. Along with it a Rs.43000cr to fulfil the promise of BJP, has surpassed the Communist universal number in PF was started providing round the clock electricity. Party of China to become the world’s and according to which employees Several other reforms in power sector largest political organization, with 88 have also taken shape. could operate their account from any million members. When the govern- place. The unclaimed Rs 27,000cr in Achievements in Health and Yoga: ment produces its report card of Employees Provident Fund Organiza- BJP government has decided to 60 months, definitely the list of its tion will be used for welfare of hard make diagnostics such as X-Ray, achievement will be much longer. The working labourers. MRI and CT scans free of cost for largest democracy is all set to deliver Drastic change in working culture of the poor at government hospitals. fruits of Good Governance and lead. the government: The Health ministry has launched Leadership of PM (1 Crore=10 Million; Rs 62.6 Crore is a mission “Indradhanush” assuring about $10 Million; 100 Lakhs=1 Crore; full immunization coverage by 2020 8 KM = 5 Mile) against seven vaccine preventable diseases. India has demonstrated Ram Kamath with contributions global leadership with its new 85% from Nilima Madan, Anand Billava, pictorial health-warning rule. It Srikanth Reddy, Dr. Shuvendu Sen, is essential that these warnings Vilas Reddy, Arun Madan, and Dr. appear on tobacco packets as soon Sanjay Gupta. as possible. A national campaign, covering 4041 statutory towns, to clean the streets, roads, and

34 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 35 The Message Shri Modi Brings to Canada and the World

Dr. Sitansu S Chakravarti

ur beloved Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra karma yogi, and aspires for the good of all, and not just of Damodar Modi brings a very special message India, for harmony does not have any inbuilt boundar- Oto Canada with his visit, a message indeed of ies and limits to it. In pursuit of harmony around, India economic prosperity for both countries, couched in a never colonized other countries in history, a rare feature language expressing deep human values which India she shares in common with Canada, although she has striven to manifest in her way of living for millennia suffered the humiliating and hurtful experience of being through yoga and meditation. The economic engage- colonized herself in the name of ‘civilization’. ments considered do not succeed with calculation of The world today is in profound unrest, rife with geo-po- profit and loss only in mind, however important it be, litical, economic and religious conflict at several fronts. but through the process of building harmony around. Corruption at various levels of government and society Yoga ties itself to the state of harmony within, to use – in the West as well as the East –, violence, psycholog- the language of the Gita, which imbibed to an extent ical instability and environmental calamity loom large spills over onto building harmony without. The seeds of around us. Frequent repeats of unprovoked massacres an abiding success in action lie after all in the process in public places aimed at innocent people are common of imbibing the virtue harmony within, a virtue so news all over the world. The financial crisis of 2008, prominently, and uniquely, mentioned in the Indian following on the heels of the Enron debacle in 2001, has literature. India has shared this wisdom with others thrust the global economy into turmoil. These events in the past. This is what is called karma yoga (yoga and their aftermath have been triggered by unchecked of action) in the Gita. Our Modiji has come with this greed that defied legal measures. Continued world-wide age-old, yet ever new, message of India here. He is a violence, too, fails to be managed by security strategies,

36 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| as we can see. Here comes the relevance of India’s message that Modiji is carrying: Success lies in peace achieved with building harmony within; all the calcula- tive measures in action need to be grounded at the base provided by karma yoga. This is not a religious message, as yoga is not a religious involvement, but a technique, secular indeed, to fruitful action, to borrow the words of the Gita. The technique is not only effective, but draws our respect, as is apparent while we observe Modiji at work; it does not discriminate between the individuals and the peoples.

We do expect that Modiji’s visit leads to the emergence of the right image of India in its totality in the Canadian media and text books, an image that accommodates the proper portrayal of its religions, including Hinduism, at the Canadian universities. In Ethics today India has a lot to contribute at the academic level, especially in the field of Virtue Ethics, opening up new horizons, and indicating restructuring of courses in management studies as well as political theory. On our part, may we Canadians of Indian origin here reassure our very own Narendra Modiji that given a proper channel we might succeed in sharing our ideas toward rebuilding of India and her culture so India prospers true to her tradition making the world a better place to live in for all, not excluding anybody out. We expect the national, secular motto of modern India emerging from the Vedas: Satyameva jayate (Truth only triumphs), be there in practice in India as well as the whole world, so Canada and India flourish together in company with the other countries around. We are fervently looking forward to this outcome of the leadership from the Prime Minister of India.

Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih.

Sitansu S Chakravarti, Ph.D. (Philosophy) Syracuse, New York; Visiting Scholar, New College, University of Toronto; President, Cultural Understanding Everywhere, Toronto

36 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 37 Women Empowerment in India: Dreams to Reality

Swati Bhatt Vyas

here has never been a more ing the girl child. Right from his women in rural areas. Rs 10,025cr urgent need to talk about early days as the Chief Minister of have been sanctioned under the Twomen empowerment than Gujarat, he analyzed and identified Indira Awas Yojana. His current in 21st century, where we want to the issues of female feticide, lack of cabinet has more than 25 percent have it all, but are still lurking to education, child marriages, dowry of women ministers, including change the dream into reality. and bias societal rituals towards the the key positions like the External girl child. Once, he sworn in as the Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj As an economically developing Prime Minister, he has left no stone and Minister of Human Resources nation, India stands on the cusp of a unturned to implement numerous and Development, Smriti Irani. He changing era. More than 800 million campaigns encouraging and believes that women should be a people in India are under the age protecting the girl child. A sum of part of the decision making process, of 35, well-educated, well-read, Rs 1000cr is allocated to ‘Nirbhaya’ be it a household or the government. well-travelled, successful entrepre- fund, to prevent crime against neurs, and ready for a change. women. The Vidya Lakshmi Yojana India is a country of strong moral and cultural roots, the religion we In May 2014, the country spoke with facilitates higher education for girls preach, the food we eat and the role its mandate, and elected the three in foreign countries. In the recent we play in the family dynamics. As times Chief Minister Shri Narendra Union Budget, several social security a nation we are no strangers to the Modi to lead the nation. PM Modi schemes have been announced to strength of a woman, history holds has always been an advocate of provide comprehensive benefits to magnificent references to women, women empowerment and educat- women and to ensure housing for 38 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| who have rose to the occasion and responsibility of the society.” that Modiji has made it his prime saved the day. pledge to fight for women’s rights. Earlier this year, he launched the I, myself, have been at the receiv- Historically Indian women are epic campaign “Beti Bachao, Beti ing end of women empowerment equal to men. In Mahabharata, Padhao Andolan” and “Sukanya campaign led by then Chief Minister women have been symbolized as Samriddhi account.” During his Modi. In year 2010, as one of the Shakti, the central energy force address in Haryana for the launch, youngest female writers to write on that binds a family, nurtures it, he made an emotional plea to let self-help in India, I was privileged and is mother of the universe and the girl child live and attain worthy to have an opportunity to present all things living. In Ramayana, Sita education. He compared female my first book to Modiji. During our has been placed equal to Ram, and feticide to “mental illness.” Further, meet, he talked fondly about how he is epitome of womanhood. Rani of he condemned the people for killing desires that each girl my age could Jhansi, known as Lakshmi bai, ruled their own daughters and longing fulfill ones dreams and how we the Maratha state of Jhansi and for a well-educated, well-learned should all have equal opportunity led the Indian Rebellion of 1857. daughter-in-law. and rights. His passion for the cause She became a symbol of Indian In his speech, he said, “We cannot was very evident. Our meeting left nationalists against the British call ourselves citizens of 21st a lasting impression on me, I was rule. During India’s Independence, century by practicing such a crime not only in awe of the charismatic Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, and we by our mindsets belong to leader, who had penned several Vijay Laxmi Pandit, Indira Gandhi 18th century when daughters were books himself, but I found a new and many more women played a killed soon after they were born.” respect for him. Let’s not forget, fundamental role in the country’s PM Modi himself is an exemplary freedom and growth. In the early He also launched Sukanya Samridhi example of empowerment and how 20th century with the rise of the Yojna (girl child prosperity scheme), persuasion for one’s dream can National Movement, Mahatma under which girl children below 10 lead you to become one of the most Gandhi directed the abolishment of years will have bank accounts with powerful people in the world. Born sati, prevention of child marriage, higher interest rate and income tax to a poor tea seller, he set his sight and removal of polygamy. The Act of benefits. on the highest elected office in the Sati (abolish) 1829, the Child Restric- world’s largest democracy. With a Another milestone was achieved tion Act, Hindu Widow Remarriage majority government, his chances when the U.S. President Barack Act’ 1856, 1929, Women Property to bring reform to the country are Obama visited India as a chief guest Right Act, 1937 were enforced. highest than ever. to the Republic Day Parade. The The modern women in India are theme for this year’s parade ‘Nari Gujarat came into its own being facing a tug-of-war between the Shakti’ (woman power) was well under his leadership. Women were old and the new. Today’s genera- proclaimed when a woman officer, leading entrepreneurs; their skill tion of daughters and daughter-in- Wing Commander Pooja Thakur, led was recycled to boost not only laws are still expected to nurture the ceremonial Guard of Honour for their personal economic growth and look after the family, while the U.S. President at the Rashtrapati and financial stability but also of they build their dreams and careers Bhavan. At the grandiose presiden- the state as a whole. Girls would outside home. tial palace, President Obama be out at night without fear of any was given a 21-gun salute. Wing During his trip to U.S. last year, in an violence or sexual harassment. Commander Thakur later walked interview to CNN’s Fareed Zakaria, Women in rural regions were given him for the inspection of the Guard PM Modi showed concerned and free education, access to banking of Honour. She is the first woman urged for equal women’s rights and and housing. Laws were put in officer in India to lead the tri-ser- education. PM Modi said “to give place to empower them, such as vices Guard of Honour. women their due respect and to the stamp duty waiver if property was registered in women’s name protect their dignity is a collective Well, it comes as no surprise to me, and making the mother’s name 38 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 39 mandatory in school records.

This was the time his Gujarat Model was bearing fruits and Global Business summit had become the toast of international business hub. Canada has been an active partner country to the Global Vibrant Gujarat Summits and in year 2011, I was fortunate to be a part of the delega- tion that went to India. As surreal as the entire event was for me, my meeting with him was unforgettable. I was the only female member of the delegation, and with all the courage I had, I went to him and reminded him about our first meet. To my surprise, he recollected the smallest of the details along with my name. He was curious to know about my whereabouts and whether or not I was still pursuing my dreams. He spent a good few minutes making sure; I was on the right path and happy with what I was doing. A little encouragement from him was more than I could fathom that day. I was reminded of his commitment to empower each and every woman, and give her right to equality. With his blessings, I was charged up and ready to conquer the world.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Canada on April 15, 2015 is an historic milestone for the two countries and the Indian diaspora residing here. Along with the progressive bilateral talks and treaties the two countries will propose, I hope PM Modi takes his women empower- ment campaign up a notch and promises a safe India to all women from around the globe, who wish to explore, document and spend their lives there.

Swati Bhatt Vyas, Masters in Journal- ism is an author, editor and digital consultant. UPS AND DOWNS One clap for the weak, one clap for the strong. Cheers for the right, and cheers for the wrong.

Smile for the happy, smile for the sad. Tears for the good times, and tears for the bad.

Ovation for the rst ones, Ovation for the last. Strength for the future, and strength for the past.

Wishes for the better, prayers for the worse. Acceptance for the blessings, denials for the curse.

Counts for the heartbeats, counts for the breath, Happiness through lifetime, Happiness till death.

Simran Joshi is a student at the University of Toronto Author of poetry collection, “The Scream of Silence Holi and Related Festivals

Dr. Sadhna JOSHI & Dr. Saraswati JOSHI

oli is a very ancient festival of spring and colour, oblation, Hofferings and sacrifice (yagya and bali) to thank and honour all the deities, especially Agni (Fire) for the arrival of new crops and the Indian New-Year, is also associated to the death of: (1) Kamdev (the “God of Love”), reduced to ashes by Shiva (2) Dhundhubhi (created by Kamdev’s wife Rati, to destroy the world) (3) Putna (reincarnation of Ratnamala, King Bali’s daughter) (4) Dhundha (killed by the “fire or power of voice and words”, “shabdagni” produced by children) (5) Holika (Holasur’s adopted daughter) (6) Holika (King-Demon Harinyakashipu’s sister) entered a blazing fire with her nephew Prahlad in her lap but, by 42 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| the miracle of Vishnu, his devotee from these “kukri” (bobbins) and things and fire). Women in a garden Prahlad was saved and Holika paid puts them around her neck. These saved her life. by her life. The death of Holika is the “vels” (sacred threads) have almost • Holi’s next morning, they go back to most popular reason associated with the same importance for her as the the place where Holika was immolated Holi. We see that except for Kamdev, sacred threads “yagyopavit” has for and prepare 16 “pindiyan” (oval-balls) all the women immolated this day an Indian “dvij” (twice born). from the “bhasma” (ashes) of Holi and were believed to be demonesses. • As soon as Holi is burnt, in every take them to the place where Gangaur But if we see the feminine festivals family “Agata” rules, associated with adoration will take place. These and rituals practiced by Indian goddess Shitla (prohibition of sewing, “pindiyan” (oval-balls) of Holika’s women, Holi is associated with other washing clothes with soap, etc.) are “bhasma” (ashes) represent the reasons that are completely different. imposed. Even the washer-men will goddess Gangaur-Gauran-Parvati. It is essential to see the rituals, feasts not wash the clothes, and tailors will Every morning, during 18 days after and fasts practiced by women. not sew/ stitch clothes for seven or Holi, these 16 “pindiyan” (ash-balls) eight days, until the Shitlashtami and 16 “bindiyan” (dots), made by • Before the immolation of Holika, festival. Agata means, who has not “kumkum” (red powder made princi- women worship her with respect, and gone or somebody whose last rites are pally from turmeric and lime), “kajal” as soon as Holi is burnt, they run to not properly performed. Holi’s next (lampblack), and “mehandi” (henna) put some water on the fire and bring morning, they go to the place where will receive cult. These 16 dots are also “angare” (glowing coals) to their houses. Holi was burnt and to goddess Shitla’s symbols of 16 “singar”, adornment of a • Before immolation, every woman place of cult to offer some water, and married woman “suhagan”. Then they takes two and a half “kukri” (bobbins they worship Holi and Shitla. They sow some barley grains for “javaras” of cotton thread) in a piece of cloth continue it for 7-8 days, and then the (barley shoots) near the “bhasma ki pindiyan” (ash-oval balls).

During seven days, until the Shitla festival, there will be no statue or image, except these “bhasma ki pindiyan” (ash-balls) and “bindiyan” (dots). On the 7th day, after Shitla’s final cult, they go to a potter’s (kumhar / prajapati) house, bring statues of Gangaur / Gauran-Par- vati and her husband Isar / Shiva, and place them near the “bhasma ki of an auspicious colour, and prepares 7th or 8th day is celebrated as the main pindiyan” (ash-balls) for adoration. a package, which is passed seven festival to honour Shitla. If there is no On the 18th day is the main festival of times upon the flames of Holi. These Shitla temple in their village, they may Gangaur and Isar. Isar is married with “kukri” that were passed on the go to the place where Holi was burnt, Gangaur, they are happy, according flames of Holi represent goddess consider it as Shitla’s dwelling-place to the stories of Gangaur, satisfied, Dasha (goddess of prosperity and and do the rituals. In the prayers, songs she distributes “suhag” (auspicious wealth, in fact she is Parvati) and her and stories related with Shitla’s cult state of wifehood, or marital bliss) to husband Darha-Shiva. From the next and rituals, women do not describe all women, stays 2 or 3 days at their morning, the “kukri” (bobbins) receive her as Jamdagni’s wife or Parshuram’s place, then the statues, “bhasma ki a cult every day, for the duration of mother. She is a goddess, associated pindiyan” (ash-balls) and “javare” ten days. The tenth day is celebrated with Shakti, who protects the children. (shoots of barley), all are consigned in as a festival, destined to Dasha She suffered a lot by Holi’s fire and the a river or lake for Gangaur’s departure and Darha, and then every woman hot elements offered by a king and his to her husband Isar-Shiva’s home. prepares two “vels” (sacred threads) subjects (that’s why she hates all hot

42 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 43 auto-immolation too! Sati, reincar- nated as Parvati or Kali as Gauri. Why the “pindiyan” (oval-balls), made by the “bhasma” (ashes) of Holika’s “chita” (funeral pyre), normally avoided and considered as inauspicious by the “suhagans” (married women), have become a symbol of the most important goddess of “Suhag” (happy married life or auspicious state of wifehood or marital bliss), especially if she or Shitla’s cult (seven days after Holi) for Dasha and Darha’s cult (ten days after Holi) they who was or were burnt in this children’s protection. for protection of wealth and Prosperity. “chita” (funeral pyre) were believed to be the demonesses. We see that according to the feminine festivals, associated with Holi, her “bhasma” (ashes), even her flames are closely related with goddesses Gangaur, Shitla and Dasha, who are honoured for the protection of : a) “suhag” (happy married life and husband’s long life, marital bliss); b) children; c) wealth and prosperity, and Holika is not considered as a demoness, she is associated with Shiva’s wives: Sati-Kali, Dasha-Gauri-Parvati, and with Shitla who is also considered as a form of Shakti, Adi-Bhavani Gangaur’s cult before Shitla’s festival Gangaur’s cult after Shitla’s festival (original goddess Shakti or Parvati), (only Holi’s ash-oval balls, and dots). (Gangaur and Isar’s statues, added with ash- “Mata” or “Badi-mata” (Great-Mother oval Cult and rituals during 18 days after or Devi). “Javare” and “dhub/ durva” (barley Holi for protection of “Suhag” (auspicious shoots and panicum dactylom), state of wifehood). linked with goddesses Kali and Dubri Sadhna Joshi, Ph.D., D.Sc., Associ- (a form of Shakti) are both very to think: “Who is Holika or the women ate Professor, Dept. of Molecular important elements for Gangaur’s immolated in the fire on the occasion Genetics, University of Toronto, adoration. She is the most important of Holi?” Why a festival associated Toronto Ontario, Canada. and popular goddess for Rajasthani with immolation of some demonesses women and this festival is celebrated like Putna, Dhundha, Holika, or Saraswati Joshi, Ph.D., “Chevalier” by all married and unmarried somebody else became so popular (Knight) dans L’Ordre des Palmes women for attaining present and and important for Indian women? Academiques, nomées par le Govt. de future “suhag-sukh” (happiness and Gangaur is considered as a daughter France, Maître des Conférences (Rtd.), auspicious state of wifehood). of every family, and sister or friend of de L’Institut National des Langues et her devotees. According to Mahendra Civilisations Orientales, Paris, France. These feminine festivals, their Bhanavat, Holika was Isarji’s wife religious practices and rituals, associ- therefore Shiva’s wife! In that case, ated closely with Holi’s immolation this festival can be associated with and her “bhasma” (ashes), incite us Daksha’s daughter Sati’s or Kali’s 44 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Diwali: A National Festival in Canada

Yogesh Sharma

For the first time, Diwali celebration on Parliament Hill was organized by MP Deepak Obhrai on October 26, 1998. Since then, Diwali has been celebrated every year in Ottawa, national capital, and other major cities like Toronto. The celebration is marked by lighting of the lamp by the Prime Minister where a large number of Indian community members participate. Given the significance of Diwali festival to Canadians, especially Indo-Canadi- ans, cabinet ministers, and leadership of various political parties overwhelmingly attend the celebrations. Seven cities in Canada now have changed their bylaws so that Indo-Canadians could celebrate Diwali at home by playing firecrackers to mark the occasion. The Indo-Ca- nadians believe that celebration of various festivals like Diwali is a good learning experience for the children to understand their heritage. Diwali celebrations not only bring together Indo-Canadians but Canadians in general who see this festival as an opportunity to celebrate the Yogesh Sharma, President of Rajasthan Association of multiculturism in Canada. North America (RANA), Canada

44 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 45 Why are Indo-Canadians feeling proud of their heritage?

Pictures Vaisakhi : A Religious Celebration of Joy

Prabhjot Singh

Vaisakhi, after Divali, has emerged it is celebrated in different parts of festival is celebrated as Naba Barsha as the biggest north Indian festival India as the start of a new Solar year. (New Year). In neighboring Assam, it is whose celebrations with fervor and According to Sikh religious calendar called Rongali Bihu. In Bihar, celebra- gaiety are gradually gaining the tones – Nanakshahi – the first day of “desi” tions are again connected to observa- of acceptance of a global event. It has month of Vaisakh is observed as tion of start of a new solar year. It is given the overseas Punjabis, in general Vaisakhi. It was on this day that five called Vaishakha in Bihar in honor of and the Sikhs in particular, a distinct devout had volunteered to sacrifice the Sun God. While in Haryana, like socio-economic-cultural identity. their lives in response to a call made Punjab, Vaisakhi continues to be a Besides its religious significance – birth by the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind major religious and socio-economic anniversary of the Khalsa, the pure - it Singh. The five –m Bhai Daya Singh, festival. However, in the hill state of has traditionally been correlated to the Bhai Dharam Singh, Bhai Mukhan Himachal Pradesh, people make a start of harvesting season (of wheat Singh, Bhai Himmat Singh and Bhai pilgrimage to Jawalaji temple and take crop) in north India reflecting in the Sahib Singh – later had the distinc- a holy dip in the hot springs there. process great socio-economic strides tion of baptizing Guru Gobind Singh It was on this day in 1699 that the 10th the farming community of North after their own captivation at a Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, chose has made. Besides, for many Indian special congregation held at Takht Sri the historic town of Sri Anandpur communities, it marks the start of a Kesgarh Sahib. While people in Tamil Sahib for the launch of the Khalsa. New Year. Nadu celebrate Vaisakhi as Puthandu, Though main religious celebrations the festivities are known as Vishu Vaisakhi is not only a Sikh festival but are held at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Kerala. In Bengal, this seasonal

46 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| (Sri Anandpur Sahib), Golden Temple to the event witnessed in some major in North America started in 1979 (Amritsar) and Takht Sri Damdama North American cities has been the use when the Canadian Sikhs organized Sahib (Talwandi Sabo), the Sikhs all of smaller aircraft for showering floral a massive Nagar Kirtan procession to over the world mark the festivities not petals over the processions. Besides mark the 500th birth anniversary of only by holding special congregations the major Commonwealth nations Guru Amar Dass. Since then holding in gurdwaras but also in a global show like England, Canada, Australia and of Sikh Parade has become an annual of their progress in social, political and New Zealand several other countries feature. Success stories of young Sikh economic fields as followers of one of have accorded recognition to some boys and girls are played up as a build the most recent and modern religions. of major Sikh festivals, in general, up for the Vaisakhi supplements. and Vaisakhi in particular. This year, Since Sikhism had its origin in Pakistan The Vaisakhi celebrations have now for example, the Malaysian govern- – Nankana Sahib, the birth place of first become a regular feature not only in ment has allowed Sikhs a day off on Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev – groups of Commonwealth countries but also in Vaisakhi day. In 1999, when the entire the devout also visit Sikh shrines there some European and African nations. world celebrated the tercentenary of as part of Vaisakhi celebrations that The celebrations not only ensure the Khalsa, Canada became the first are held in the second week of April holding of competitions, tournaments, country other than India to take out every year. After almost 230 years folk events and religious congrega a commemorative stamp to mark the - of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev, Guru event. tions, but also organization of lavish Gobind Singh had given the Sikhs new feasts where the local populace identity of the Khalsa by introducing In the United States and England, is invited as a part of “know your the concept of Saint Soldier. Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan processions or Sikh neighborhood communities better” celebration’s global significance can Parades are taken out in almost every programme launched by some of the be measured from ever expand- major cities, including New York, San enterprising Overseas Sikh Organi- ing number of cosmopolitan and Francisco, Los Angeles, Yuba City, zations. This was necessitated more metropolitan cities the world over that London and Birmingham. In fact, the as a mode of defense and awareness reverberate to the beats of bhangra concept of the Nagar Kirtan proces- to thwart growing incidents of hate and display of traditional martial art of sions has proved to be an effective tool violence witnessed in several parts of gatka as part of “Nagar Kirtan proces- for the overseas Sikh community to North America after the 9/11 terrorist sions” or Sikh Parades. introduce itself as a peaceful and hard attack. working group. The first ever-Nagar While Sikhs in India have Nagar Kirtan Kirtan procession was organized processions and special congrega - on January 19, 1908 along Second Prabhjot Singh, Executive Editor, PTC tions on the Vaisakhi day, overseas Avenue in Vancouver. On August 28, News (formerly Bureau Chief of The Punjabis make it special with lavish 1912, Hardial Singh Atwal earned the Tribune group of newspapers). celebrations. There, distinction of becoming first Canadian Nagar Kirtan processions or Sikh born Sikh. parades alone do not mark the Each Nagar Kirtan Procession celebrations. They, in fact, come as comprises among other things a a socio-cultural package comprising tastefully decorated truck trailer that competitions in games, sports and carries scared Guru Granth Sahib cultural events besides holding of in a golden or silver palanquin, five special religious congregations that baptized Sikhs (Panj Pyaras) who continue for weeks together. Holding carry Kesri flags (Nishan Sahibs), of community kitchens, illumination of Gurbani reciting groups or “Parbhat the entire route of the procession and Pheris” besides Bhangra and gatka distribution of literature about Sikhism players. The scale at which the Nagar have come to stay as integral part of Kirtan processions are now organized celebrations. One of the latest additions

46 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 47 48 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 48 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 49 50 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 50 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 51 52 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 52 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Incredible Indo - Canadians ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| 53

Community Reception in Honor of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Ricoh Colesium, 45 Manitoba Drive, Toronto, April 15, 2015)

Organizing Committee: Organizing Committee: Azad K. Kaushik, Chair Deepak Ruparell, Co-Chair Ramesh Chotai, Co-Chair Pankaj Dave, Vice-President, NAIC and Convener, Fund Raising, Budget and Accounting Vikram Khurana, Convener, Cultural Program, Government Relations Nareshkumar N Chavda, Secretary General, NAIC and Convener, Registration, Souvenir and Office Management Santhosh Prabhu, Convener, Event Logistics management Kasi Rao, Convener, Communications, Publicity and Media Management Anil Shringi, Convener, Security Management Yogesh Patel, Convener, Volunteer Services Vipin Sharma, Convener, Community Outreach Naresh Patel Haresh Mehta Pranav Patel Harsh Thakkar Darpan Patel Mukund Purohit Surjit Babra Aditya Jha Mansoor Kaanchwala Bhim Asdhir Budhendranauth Doobay V. I. Lakshmanan Lajpat (Laj) Rai Prasher Shivani Ruparell Poonam Puri Ajit Someshwar Haresh Bhatt Steve Gupta

Reception Committee: Prem Watsa Bharat Masrani Devinder Shory Patrick Brown Rajesh Shukla Jagdish Chandra Sharda Naresh Patel Beant Singh Dhaliwal Pranav Patel Chandrakant Sachdev Sriram Iyer Media Management and Communication Shivendra Dwivedi Kasi Rao, Convener Shiv Bhasker Aditya Jha Aditya Tawatiya Swati Bhatt Vyas Prabhu Mishra Vipan Sharma Gary Comerford Vipul Jani Dharma Jain Shriram Gurdev Singh Mann Mann Parikh Janak Shah Usha George Souvenir Committee Sadhna Joshi Sadhna Joshi, Convener Meenakshi Raina Nareshkumar N Chavda Vidya Dhar Swati Bhatt Vyas Lata Pada Sharmishtha Joshi Menaka Thakkar Lata champsee

Government Relations Committee Security Arrangements Committee Vikram Khurana, Convener Anil Shringi, Convener Mukund Purohit Santosh Coubey Deepak Ruparell Deepak Ruparell Lajpat (Laj) Rai Prasher Bachittar Singh Gill Ketan Mehta Fund Raising Committee Birender Kaushik Pankaj Dave, Convener Ramesh Chotai Program Committee Deepak Ruparell Vikram Khurana, Convener Vikram Khurana Kasi Rao Shivendra Dwivedi Santhosh Prabhu Nareshkumar N Chavda Pankaj Dave Chintan Bhavsar Budget and Accounting Parthi Kandavel Bharat Chavda, Convener Kapil Kumaria Shiv Bhasker Raj Sahani Hospitality Committee Dharma Jain Harsh Thakkar, Convener Poornima Patel Registration and Website Management Shilpaben Patel Nareshkumar N Chavda, Convener Parth Pandya Santhosh Prabhu Bikramjit Singh Goraya Darpan Patel Volunteer Services Committee Event and Production Management Yogesh Patel, Convener Vikram Khurana, Convener Kaushikbhai Patel Santhosh Prabhu, Co-Convener Kaushik Radadia Shuvaloy Majumdar Vijay Pandya Neil McDermott Vipan Sharma Nareshkumar N Chavda Daljit Singh Bhavik Parekh Bhoomika Patel Pranav Patel Jyoti Mehta Sonalben Pandya

Transport Arrangement Committee Bharat Kapoor, Convener Nayan Brahmbhatt Kaushik P Patel Brijesh Pandya

Officer on Special Duty Keshav Agnihotri Ajay Singh Ashish Sachan

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1 © 2015 Morningstar Research Inc. All rights reserved. The information contained herein: (i) is proprietary to Morningstar and/or its content providers; (ii) may not be copied or distributed; and (iii) is not warranted to be accurate, complete, or timely. Neither Morningstar nor its content providers are responsible for any damages or losses arising from any use of this information. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments and the use of an asset allocation service. Please read the prospectus before investing. Where used, the indicated rates of return are the annual compound total returns for the periods shown and, where applicable, the calendar year rates of return, including changes in unit value and assuming reinvestment of all distributions, do not take into account sales, redemption or optional charges or income taxes payable by any security holders, which would have reduced returns. The rate of return shown is used only to illustrate the effects of the compound growth rate and is not intended to reflect future values of the Excel India Fund, or returns on investment of the Excel India Fund.Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. CONSIDER. EVALUATE. LEARN. ADJUST. ACTUALIZE. ACCOMPLISH. DEDICATE. ASSESS. ORGANIZE. HUSTLE. OBTAIN. ADAPT. SOLVE. ACHIEVE. COLLABORATE. SUCCEED. GRADUATE.

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They Made the Difference

Jagdish Chandra Sharda (Shastri) Labhamal Sabherwal Raj Kumar Sharma Kulin Mehra Jagdish Vijh Satya Wadhwa Asha Sehagal Surinder Sikand Ashok Gautam Narayan Rao Surendra Sharda Daulat Mistry Shambhu Gupta Narinder Bhalla Dharmendra Dholakia Jammu Bansal Narendra Shah Kamlesh Sharda

Azad K Kaushik Pankaj Dave Nareshkumar N Chavda Anil Shringi Keshav Agnihotri Ramesh Aggarwal Naresh Patel Vipin Sharma Col V K Sharma Vipul Jani Parth Pandya Kaushikbhai Patel Kaushik P Patel Bharat Kapoor Purnimaben Patel Ketan Mehta Jyoti Mehta Shilpaben Patel Chintanben Bhavsar Sonalben Pandya Tarun Khanna Don Patel Pranav Patel Bhupendra Raval Jitendra Thakkar Jignesh Patel Nayan Bhrambhatt Khanjan Patel Chandrakant Thakar J P Patel Pravin Sharma

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