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VOL 14 ISSUE 21 ● NEW YORK / DALLAS ● MAY 22 - 28, 2020 ● ENQUIRIES: 646-247-9458 www.theindianpanorama.news AMERICA 80 reported dead as Cyclone UNITED AGAINST Amphan Ravages West Bengal COVID-19 PM Modi arrives in Kolkata for aerial survey of damage KEEP SAFE KOLKATA (TIP): Prime Minister ● Follow President Trump's Narendra Modi has arrived in West Guidelines on Coronavirus Bengal to take stock of the damage due ● Observe Social Distancing to Cyclone Amphan in the state which ● Wash Hands Frequently left 80 dead and thousands homeless. ● No Panic Buying This is the prime minister's first visit ● No Price Gouging outside Delhi after coronavirus KEEP AMERICA SAFE lockdown was imposed on the midnight of March 24. After an aerial survey of affected COVID-19 UPDATE, as of areas in Bengal, PM Modi will visit May 21, 2020 Odisha. ● More than 5 million cases Cyclone Amphan that tore into West confirmed worldwide and over Bengal killed 80 people and "completely 332924 deaths, according to devastated" two districts as Kolkata and data from Johns Hopkins University. several parts of the state wore a ● More than 1.5 million cases and battered look on Thursday,May 21, a day at least 93,439 deaths from the after the storm left thousands of people disease in the United States, A battered house and a fallen tree tell the story of the destruction contd on page 32 according to the latest tallies from Johns Hopkins. ● At least 361313 cases and at least 28663 deaths from Trump says he won't close the country COVID-19 in New York State, as of May 21, according to New York if second wave of coronavirus hits Times. ● In New Jersey which ranks WASHINGTON (TIP): President said. "We can put out the fires. Whether second to New York in COVID-19 Donald Trump said "we are not closing it is an ember or a flame, we are going to cases, as of May 21, there are at our country" if the U.S. is hit by a second put it out. But we are not closing our least 151,472 cases and 10,843 deaths, according to Governor wave of coronavirus infections. country." President Donald Trump on Murphy. "People say that's a very distinct Thursday, May 21 said "we are not ● In India, there were 1,18447 possibility, it's standard," Trump said closing our country" if the U.S. is hit by a identified cases and 3883 when asked about a second wave during second wave of coronavirus infections. confirmed deaths , as of May 21 a tour of a Ford factory in Michigan. "People say that's a very distinct night (ET) "We are going to put out the fires. We're possibility, it's standard," Trump said President Trump toured the Ford plant in Read related stories inside not going to close the country," Trump when contd on page 32 Michigan, May 21 (Screenshot ) Cuomo bars summer school in N.Y. amid spike in coronavirus-linked illness afflicting kids NEW YORK (TIP): Gov. Cuomo announced Thursday, May 21 that summer school isn't happening in New York. It is "still too early", he said, to say if students will be allowed back into their classrooms in the fall amid an uptick in cases of children developing potentially deadly inflammatory symptoms from coronavirus. Speaking at a press briefing in Manhattan, Gov. Cuomo at a daily COVID-19 Cuomo reported that the State Department of briefing. Photo / Kevin P. Coughlin- Health contd on page 32 Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo T. S. Tirumurti Assumes Charge as India's New Permanent Representative to UN

NEW YORK (TIP): Ambassador T S Tirumurti, India's new Permanent Representative to the UN, presented his credentials virtually May 20 as he assumed charge as the Ambassador. He succeeds Syed Akbaruddin, who is set to retire this month. "Privileged to take over...as Permanent Representative of India to the UN in New York. During these COVID-19 times, I was the second Ambassador/ Ambassador Tirumurti arrived Permanent Representative to the UN to present virtual in New York on May 19 to credentials!" Tirumurti who arrived in New York on assume charge as India's new May 19 tweeted. Permanent Representative to the United Nations cont on page 6 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 2 CORONAVIRUS CRISIS FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 WHO WARNS AGAINST USING HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE Worldwide coronavirus cases OUTSIDE CLINICAL TRIALS near 5.2 million mark

oronavirus worldwide cases are TRACKING THE VIRUS Cnearing 5.2 million mark taking positive patients toll to 5,194,028 including 334,613 deaths GLOBAL INDIA while 2,080,921 have recovered, according to Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Worldometer figures. As cases continue to rise, US 5,194,574 3,34,621 1,18,447 3,583 GENEVA (TIP): A senior official of the World President Donald Trump Health Organization (WHO) has warned against Thursday said the US using hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine, the drugs would not close in the case for malaria and other diseases, in the treatment of of a second coronavirus COVID-19, saying these drugs should be reserved for wave. use "within clinical trials". "People say that's a very Responding to question on hydroxychloroquine or distinct possibility. It's chloroquine being used to treat COVID-19 patients in standard. And we're going certain countries, Dr Michael Ryan, executive to put out the fires. We're director of the WHO Health Emergencies not going to close the Programme, told a press conference on Wednesday country.We're going to put that, despite that both drugs are already licensed for out the fires," Trump told many diseases, at this stage, they "have been as yet reporters when asked if found to be effective in the treatment of COVID-19 or he was concerned about a in the prophylaxis against coming down with the second wave of COVID-19 disease", Xinhua reported. during a tour of a Ford "And in fact the opposite, warnings have been manufacturing plant in issued by many authorities regarding the potential the state of Michigan. side effects of the drug and many countries have "A permanent lockdown limited its use to that of clinical trials or during is not a strategy for a clinical trials or under the supervision of clinicians healthy state or a healthy in a hospital setting that's specifically for COVID-19, country. Our country because of a number of potential side effects that wasn't meant to be shut have occurred and could occur," Ryan stressed. down. A never-ending "Having said that, again it is for each national lockdown would invite a authority to weigh and assess the evidence for and public health calamity. To against the use of this drug," he added. protect the health of our people we must have a UK deaths cross 36,000, Covid-19:Two studies indicate functioning economy," the President added. reinfection may not happen Brazil crosses including 695 Indians CHICAGO (TIP): Two recently published studies 20,000 Covid-19 LONDON (TIP): The number of daily hold promise over one of the most enduring questions deaths after record deaths and new cases is showing a since the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (Covid- 24-hour toll steady decline, particularly in London, 19): does a person who has recovered from the highly but new figures on Thursday revealed contagious disease develop immunity against RIO DE JANEIRO the UK-wide death toll had reached a reinfection? US researchers have indicated that the (TIP): The coronavirus cumulative figure of 36,042 (including answer may be yes – a positive sign that vaccines being death toll in Brazil 695 ‘Indians’ in England) and 250,098 developed could succeed. surpassed 20,000 on cases. The two studies in monkeys have offered some of the Thursday, after a record According to NHS England, 695 first scientific evidence that surviving Covid-19 may number of fatalities in a members of the non-white community result in immunity from reinfection, the researchers 24-hour period, the health categorised as ‘Indian’ died after said on Wednesday. Although scientists have assumed ministry said. contracting coronavirus as of May 19. levied on all non-EU migrants, and the that antibodies produced in response to the new virus The country is the The UK-wide death toll of 36,042 demand is to scrap it for doctors and are protective, there has been scant scientifically epicenter of the outbreak includes a day rise of 338. other healthcare professionals. rigorous evidence to back that up. in Latin America, and its Prime Minister Boris Johnson faced Johnson told the House of Commons How long the protection lasts, however, still remains highest one-day toll of renewed calls from within and outside that he recognised the contribution of unclear. 1,188 pushed the overall the ruling party to scrap the migrants and recalled his own recent In one of the new studies, researchers infected nine death tally to 20,047. immigration health surcharge levied on life-saving treatment at the hands of monkeys with Sars-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19. Brazil has now Indian and other non-EU health nurses from outside the UK, but refused After they recovered, the team exposed them to the recorded more than professionals who need to pay 400 to scrap the surcharge on the ground virus again and the animals did not get sick. 310,000 cases, with experts pounds per person per year to access the that the NHS needs the funding. The findings suggest that they “do develop natural saying a lack of testing National Health Service (NHS). The surcharge, payable at the time a immunity that protects against re-exposure”, said Dr means the real figures are Senior Conservative party called it migrant applies for a UK visa, is to rise Dan Barouch, a researcher at the Center for Virology probably much higher. ‘immoral and monstrous’ that migrants to 624 pounds per person per year from and Vaccine Research at Harvard’s Beth Israel With its curve of putting their lives at risk to treat October. Various organisations, Deaconness Medical Center in Boston, whose studies infections and deaths coronavirus patients had to pay the including the British Association of were published in the journal Science. “It’s very good rising sharply, the surcharge, which amounts to them for it Physicians of Indian Origin have news,” Barouch said. Several research teams have country of 210 million twice, since they also pay income tax, campaigned the the surcharge to be released papers – many of them not reviewed by other ranks third in the world which funds the NHS. The surcharge is waived. scientists – suggesting that a vaccine against the virus in terms of total cases, would be effective in animals. behind the United States In the second study, Barouch and colleagues tested and Russia. right President Jair under some sort of the most affected area, 25 monkeys with six prototype vaccines to see if The death toll -- the Bolsonaro on Thursday lockdown order, though with about a quarter of antibodies produced in response were protective. They sixth highest worldwide -- continued his calls to Brazilians are wearying the country’s deaths and then exposed these monkeys and 10 control animals to has doubled in just 11 scrap lockdown measures of the restrictions in infections. Sars-CoV-2. All of the control animals showed high days, according to to revive the country’s place since the end of The virus’s impact has degrees of virus in their noses and lungs, but in the ministry data. flagging economy. March. Sao Paulo state, accelerated in Rio de vaccinated animals, “we saw a substantial degree of Despite the worrying But almost all of the the economic and cultural Janeiro state in recent protection,” Barouch said. spread of the disease, far- country’s 27 states are capital of Brazil, is by far days. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 NY/NJ/CT 3 New Jersey Gradually Lifting Indian American KK Mehta Lockdown Restrictions for Strategic and Chanda Mehta Respond Economic Restart to Mother India's Call

"Through our combined efforts, we Donated INR 1 Crore to PM Cares Fund, and have flattened the curve of COVID-19 Committed another $ 1 million cases, and we are well-positioned to continue our restart and recovery process," said Governor Murphy. "Our multi-stage approach uses science, data, and facts to determine which businesses and activities can reopen according to their risk level and challenges they face to safeguard public health. Additionally, "Through our combined efforts, we have we will be guided by our ability to flattened the curve of COVID-19 cases, and protect against a new COVID-19 we are well-positioned to continue our restart outbreak with expanded testing and and recovery process," said Governor Murphy contact tracing, and clear social Photo / courtesy NJ Governor's Office distancing safeguards in place. We are BIDISHA ROY currently in Stage 1, and we will aim to move through each stage quickly, but TRENTON, NJ (TIP): New Jersey also judiciously,with the public health of continues to rank second in the country our communities and all New Jerseyans after New York with at least 151,472 cases in mind." and 10,843 deaths attributed to COVID-19 More indoor businesses such since the outbreak began March 4. On barbershops, salons, and gyms in the May 21, Officials reported 98 new deaths Garden State may be allowed to reopen, and 1,304 new positive tests, which is, with restrictions, in "a matter of weeks, according to the Governor 'way down not months," Murphy said during an Filled with the milk of human kindness, KK Mehta and his wife Chanda Mehta have always from our peaks.' appearance on CNBC's "Squawk Box." placed their heart where it should be, in India, the country of their origin With Garden state's outbreak showing The Governor said that he's hopeful signs of slowing and the economy schools will be able to physically reopen NEW YORK (TIP): A well-known Police for masks. Incidentally, Mehtas continuing to suffer, New Jersey for the beginning of the next academic businessman and CPA K.K. Mehta and hail from Jodhpur in Rajasthan. Governor Phil Murphy has been slowly year in September. Schools are closed in his wife Chanda Mehta, a former They also donated during this period lifting restrictions.Heunveiled a multi- New Jersey through the end of the year, President of Vegan World, settled in New of pandemic over INR 20 lakh fora stage approach to execute a responsible with students learning remotely. York have responded feelingly to the call blindschool, and INR 4 lakh for food and strategic economic restart to put Earlier on May 18, Murphy signed of Mother India. They have made several packets for the needy, on a daily basis. New Jersey on the road back to recovery Executive Order No. 147, allowing rounds of donations running in to Mehtas run a not-for-profit charitable from COVID-19. The multi-stage certain outdoor activities at recreational millions of dollars as their humble organization by the name" Nakoda blueprint, guided by the Governor's businesses, including archery ranges, contribution for providing relief to Bheravnath". Well-known community Restart and Recovery Commission and batting cages, golf driving ranges, people in need at a time of adversity. leader and Chairman of Jaipur Foot in complementary Advisory Councils, horseback riding, shooting ranges, and The couple donated INR 1 crore to PM the US,Prem Bhandari is the chairman plans for a methodical and strategic tennis clubs as well as community Cares Fund the day the creation of the of the Nakoda Bheravanath Trust while reopening of businesses and activities gardens to open with required social fund was announced. Former SEBI chairman and deputy based on level of disease transmission distancing measures in place. The Order Recently, Consul General of India in Governor of Reserve Bank of India D R risk and essential classification. takes effect on Friday,May 22 at 6:00 a.m. New York Sandeep Chakravorty Mehta and a former Director General of announced on behalf of KK Mehta the Border Security Force, India K K latter's commitment to donate another $ Sharma are members of the Trust. Elected leaders share their thoughts on 1 million towards PM Cares fund. The noble example set by the Mehta The couple filled with the milk of couple must inspire many more Indian human kindness has made several other Americans to come forward to serve various issues with Renee Report donations to diverse organizations. A their country of origin in times of brief list should include INR 11 lakhs for adversity. Three cheers for the food pack, and INR 5 lakh to Rajasthan kindhearted generous souls! Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announces Human Trafficking Bureau

Congresswoman Grace Meng, NYS Senator John Liu and Assemblyman David Weprin shared First Prosecutors Office their thoughts with Renee Report in City to Have NEW YORK (TIP): Renee Report last There are many students across the Dedicated Bureau week had the spotlight on Congresswoman country,she said,who do not have access to Grace Meng, (D-NY6), NYS Senator John the internet for remote learning as schools QUEENS, NY (TIP): District Attorney Liu,NYS Assemblyman David Weprin remain closed during COVID 19. NYS Melinda Katz announced, May 20, the along with Harish Thakkar, President of Senator Liu who chairs the Education creation of a Human Trafficking Bureau Association of Indians in America, NY. committee echoed her sentiments. that is exclusively dedicated to Congresswoman Meng talked to Dr. Renee Besides the computer devices for school combating human trafficking in Queens Mehrra about stimulus checks for children Liu stated that students are being County. This newly formed Bureau will individuals making less than $75,000 provided free Wi-Fi during these combat sex and labor trafficking by annually, and also for those with ITIN challenging times. aggressively prosecuting traffickers and numbers to be eligible for payments with Assemblyman Weprin talked aboutmeal buyers of sex and will also connect Queens DA Melinda Katz said she was the introduction of her new Bill in options for people lacking food as a result survivors of trafficking with meaningful "focused on holding traffickers and buyers of Congress. She warned constituents to be of the pandemic, including vegetarian, services to empower them to escape their sex accountable for their role in the facilitation of human trafficking" aware of scammers who are unfortunately kosher, and halal food in Queens. traffickers, and provide community taking advantage of consumers during the (Read full story at outreach, education and information trafficking in our communities. pandemic. www.theindianpanorama.news) aimed toward preventing and identifying contd on Page 7 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 4 INDIANS ABROAD FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Indian Origin Nobel Laurate Venki Indian American Vrinda Marwah Earns Ramakrishnan Elected to American Prestigious Mellon/ACLS Fellowships Philosophical Society AUSTIN, TX (TIP): Vrinda Marwa, a Sama and CREA. Venki Doctoral Candidate of Sociology at Vrinda got the fellowship for her Ramakrishnan University of Texas at Austin is among project 'Reproducing the State: Women is a Fellow of the winners of the 2020 Community Health Volunteers in North Trinity Mellon/American Council of Learned India.' College, Cambridge Societies (ACLS) Dissertation Working in the heart of India's and President Completion Fellowships. The prestigious reproductive health care system, this of The Royal fellowships support a year of research project explores how the contemporary Society, and writing to help advanced graduate state constitutes citizenship through the London students in the humanities and social modality of care. It examines the sciences in the last year of PhD working lives of women community NEW YORK (TIP): Venkatraman dissertation writing and are awarded to health workers, called ASHAs, who are 'Venki' Ramakrishnan, a Nobel Prize- 65 students each year. "volunteers" paid to motivate poor winning biologist of Indian origin, is Vrinda Marwah is a doctoral candidate women to use public health services. among 34 new members recently in the Department of Sociology at The ASHAs reveal the productive power of an elected to the American Philosophical University of Texas at Austin. Her understudied and intensely gendered Society (APS), the nation's oldest primary research interests are in role in the state: the frontline bureaucrat. scholarly organization. Ramakrishnan reproductive health and women's labor in Because of the deeply intimate has beeninducted into APS' biological contemporary India. knowledge ASHAs have of their clients, sciences class. Vrinda's Master's thesis focused on and the networks they build among Vrinda Marwah is a doctoral candidate in the Candidates for APS membership are hijras in India, and examined debates public and private health care providers, Department of Sociology at The University of nominated by existing members and around sexual subjectivity, identity, and Texas at Austin they become highly sought-after actors in elected for extraordinary terminology in the context of HIV/AIDS, service delivery. Through 14 months of accomplishments in their fields. queer mobilization and legal reform. She Science from the University of Delhi. ethnographic fieldwork, this project Election to the American received her MSc in Gender and Social Vrinda has worked in Delhi at the uncovers how the sociality of these Philosophical Society honors Policy from the London School of research, capacity building, and policy women exceeds, and reconstitutes, the extraordinary accomplishments in all Economics, and her BA in Political advocacy levels with feminist groups policy they are meant to implement. fields. The APS is unusual among learned societies because its Membership is comprised of top Indian American Physician Indian-origin South Africans' 'musical' scholars from a wide variety of Sudheer S Chauhan Succumbs initiative to fight coronavirus blues academic disciplines. Venki Ramakrishnan is a Fellow of to Deadly Corona Virus becomes global hit Trinity College, Cambridge and NEW YORK (TIP): Dr. JOHANNESBURG President of The Royal Society, Sudheer S Chauhan, a (TIP): The 'SA London.In 2009, he shared the Nobel kindhearted physician of Musicians against Prize in Chemistry with Thomas A. Indian Origin, who had COVID-19' project helps Steitz and Ada Yonath, "for studies of dedicated his life at the service artists to showcase their the structure and function of the of his thousands of patients in talent in Indian music ribosome" the New York region, and song, sometimes Indian American Qazi succumbed to the deadly corona accompanied by dance Javed Appointed to Texas virus on May 19th. as well. Dr. Chuhan, an Internal The project was The 'SA Musicians against COVID-19' Pediatric Acute-Onset Medicine specialist in South started by project helps artists to showcase their Neuropsychiatric Richmond Hill, New York, who Johannesburg residents- talent Syndrome Advisory Council was diagnosed with COVID-19 Lexy Shunmoogam, Dr. Chuhan, an Internal Medicine and battling for his life for the Chitra Perumal, Kreasan Moodley and Guru Pooven Pillay-as HOUSTON(TIP): specialist in South Richmond Hill, past few weeks, died of a way to keep people entertained for a few hours in the Texas Governor Greg New York, who was diagnosed complications from the illness. weekend during the lockdown by bringing all singers and Abbott last month has with COVID-19 and battling for his "Our Father, Dr. Sudheer musicians together in a musical extravaganza via Facebook. life for the past few weeks, died of appointed Indian Singh Chauhan, Internal The initiative has now become an international hit. The complications from the illness American Medicine Physician and group members said they now have their hands full every day psychiatrist Qazi Associate Program Director IM Residency Program at Jamaica of the week with demands from artists who want a slot on Javed to the Pediatric Hospital, New York passed away on May 19 after battling with their Facebook page. Acute-Onset COVID for two months. We will miss this unique, kind, gentle Almost every leading artist from South Africa who Qazi Javed, M.D. Neuropsychiatric and caring spirit. May his soul rest in peace," wrote his performs religious or cultural songs, especially in the Tamil of Austin is a Syndrome Advisory daughter, Sneh Chuhan on COVID-19 Physicians Memorial. community, has already been featured, with the organizers psychiatrist at Council for terms set Dr. Chauhan, who had attended and graduated from medical having to turn down many requests from performers in India Integrated to expire on August 31, school in 1972, has had nearly half a century of diverse and other countries. Psychiatry- 2021. The council experience, especially in Internal Medicine. Dr. Chauhan "Our aim was to showcase the talent that we have right Austin advises the received his graduate medical education from GSUM Medical here at home, including providing a platform for children commission and the legislature on College, University of Kanpur, India in 1972. He was chief who are learning the art form with local teachers. We could research, diagnosis, treatment, and resident in Internal Medicine at Jamaica Hospital and hardly foresee how artists who have never ever performed education related to pediatric acute- graduated in 1997. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine. together would be on the same platform at some stage," onset neuropsychiatric syndrome. He also received MRCP and FRCP from Royal College of Shunmoogam said. Qazi Javed, M.D. of Austin is a Physicians and FACP from American College of Physicians. Dr. "What started as a small and humble initiative has now psychiatrist at Integrated Psychiatry- Chauhan joined the Department of Medicine at Jamaica become a unique and almost unequalled 'Concert from Home' Austin. He is a member of the American Hospital upon graduation in 1997 and is currently working as a event, galvanizing tens of thousands of people across the Psychiatric Association, Texas Society faculty supervisor and attending physician. He is also the world through music," he said. of Psychiatric Physicians, Texas Associate Program Director in Internal Medicine Residency Last week the 'SA Musicians against COVID-19' Facebook Medical Association, Integrative Program for the hospital. page featured priests from various temples across the Providers of Austin, and Austin Dr. Priya Khanna, 43, another Indian American nephrologist country performing Kavady prayers. Wellness Collaborative. Javed received a died in a New Jersey Hospital last month. The deadly virus also "The demand for performances of light music and cover Bachelor of Medicine at King Edward took the life of her father Satyendra Khanna (78), a general versions of Indian film songs has also been huge, so we had a Medical College and a Bachelor of surgeon, after being in a critical condition in the intensive care special weekend from May 15-17 where artists will perform in Science at Panjab University. unit in the same hospital for several days. this genre only," Shunmoogam said. (Source: PTI) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 5 FEATURE FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

id ul-Fitr is an auspicious festival celebrated by Muslims all around Ethe world. The occasion marks the end of the Islamic holy month fasting of Ramadan. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad got the first revelation of the Holy Quran in this month. The date EID MUBARAK of the festivity is dependent on the combination of the sighting of the new moon as well as the astronomical EID FALLS ON SUNDAY, MAY 24 calculations. Moreover, the onset of Eid also depends on where an individual is in the world and when the new moon is seen. Date and timings This year, Ramadan began on April 23 and shall continue till May 23. Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated at the end of the month of Ramadan. This year, Eid shall be celebrated on May 24. However, it all depends on the date when the moon is sighted. Islamic holidays depend on the lunar calendar and not the Gregorian calendar. During this time period of one month, the practice of fasting is called roza, breaking the fast in the morning is called suhur and the meal had in the evening is called iftar. Iftar is when people have their meals in the evening after having fasted for the entire day. Importance and significance Eid ul-Fitr falls on the first day of the month of Shawwal, which is the only day in that month when Muslims are not permitted to fast. The first day of the Eid month depends on any lunar Hijri month. This occasion has a unique salat (Islamic prayer), consisting of two rakats (units) and is usually offered in a large gall or open field. It is to be performed only in a congregation (Jama’at) and has added six Takbirs (raising of the hands to the ears while saying “Allahu Akbar” which means “God is the greatest”); three in the beginning of the first raka and the remaining three before ruku in the second raka’ah in the Hanafi school of Sunni Islam. teachings of the Prophet Mohammad, being a constant guide in the fasting and carnal needs and desires actually It is often said that Muslims believe Muslims wake up early in the morning, month of Ramadan. makes a person stronger by cultivating they are commanded by Allah — as also chant their Salat ul-Fajr (daily prayers), „ Going to the Mosque and praying at the qualities of self-control, self- mentioned in the Holy book of Islam take a bath and wear ittar (perfume). It is least five times a day and asking God righteousness, and self-discipline. This is Quran — to continue the fasting till the a custom to eat a hearty breakfast before for forgiveness. the month of true devotion and people very last day of Ramadan and pay the people head to perform the special „ To carry out the act of charity learn how to be happy with the minimal Zakat al-Fitr before offering the prayers congregational prayers. Many Muslims towards the poor and needy and it is things. One is also abstained from using for Eid. also recite the takbir, which is the called "Zakat-Al-Fitr" slang language or cuss words. No modes The festivities of Eid begin only after declaration of faith, on their way to the This Eid is primarily a feasting day of entertainment like music, TV, movies, the crescent moon is seen. Eid ul-Fitr prayer ground and take part in Zakat al- after the strenuous 30 days of fasting in dancing, or singing is allowed because implies breaking of the fasting time Fitr (charitable contributions). Ramadan which is the 9th month of the these things would distract one from the frame, which goes on Islamic Calendar. Apart from that, this thought of the Almighty. for a month. The Why Do We Celebrate month and Eid celebration also signifies Only the senior citizens, festival is celebrated over three Eid? the achievement of patients of asthma or days and is also called Choti Eid. communication with the diabetes or any such Following the The three basic reasons for celebrating celestial spirit and difficult disease, pregnant woman, Sunnah, which is Eid-Al-Fitr are narrated below: religious merits, characterized by children, and sports personalities, are the record of „ Showing gratitude towards God for sacrifice, self-discipline, and exempted from this fasting. But again it charity. With fasting, depends on the belief and the body prayers, and charity, one system of a person whether he/she becomes a modest person should fast or not. Some family allows and attains self-control. children to keep half-fast so that they This fasting means one learn about the festival from a young age. has to desist from food, Muslims across the globe start Eid Al beverages, and sexual Fitr celebrations by taking part in relations primarily. This prayers which is followed by a sermon practice of giving up basic soon after dawn. The day proceeds with people getting ready,wearing new clothes and exchanging greetings and sweets. Children receive gifts and money from elders. The day is incomplete without the preparation of a variety of dishes including Biryani, Haleem, kebabs and a sweet dish like Seviyan. As one of the five pillars of Islam, Zakat or giving of alms to the poor is also practiced on Eid. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 6 NY/NJ/CT FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 contd from page 1 T. S. Tirumurti New hope for COVID-19 vaccine, Assumes Charge as India's New clinical trials show promising early Permanent Representative to UN results on humans in US Ambassador T. S. Tirumurti is a NEW YORK (TIP): As scientists journal. senior career Indian diplomat with across the world work frantically to find British drug maker AstraZeneca extensive multilateral experience. a vaccine against COVID-19, which teamed up with researchers at the Since joining the Indian Foreign continues its rapid global spread, all eyes Oxford Vaccine Group and the Jenner Service in 1985, he has represented are on US-based company Moderna's Institute in developing the vaccine. India's interests in various encouraging early results on a small Breen described their "ChAdOx1 capacities, promoting friendly ties group of healthy volunteers. nCoV-19" candidate vaccine as a across the globe. Cautioning that a vaccine is still "standout". "While this vaccine has yet to Prior to his assignment as the months, maybe even a year away,experts demonstrate efficacy in humans, it was Permanent Representative of India said the US-based biotechnology firm's shown to be able to prevent infection and to the United Nations, Ambassador results have propelled it to a pole disease from COVID-19 in a primate Tirumurti was Secretary in the position in the race of 118. model," he said. Ministry of External Affairs Eight candidate vaccines for COVID-19 While this needs to be replicated in handling Gulf, Arab world, Africa, are in the clinical evaluation, while 110 humans, it is one of only two vaccines to Development Partnership and are in the preclinical stage, according to National Institute of Allergy and have demonstrated any effectiveness in Economic Relations portfolio since the WHO's latest draft landscape. Infectious Diseases (NIAID). reducing infection due to COVID-19, February 2018. Preclinical development is a stage of The data comes from eight people who making it a "highly interesting He previously served at the Indian research during which important took part in a 45-subject safety trial that candidate". Embassy in Cairo, Egypt as feasibility, iterative testing and drug kicked off in March. Though the Moderna and the Oxford Third/Second Secretary, First safety data are collected, while clinical The study showed the vaccine was safe vaccines are in a leading position, there Secretary at the Permanent Mission trials are research studies performed on and all study participants produced are several other vaccines, including of India in Geneva, Switzerland, was people. antibodies against the virus, according those being developed in India, in the the first Indian Representative to the Early data from its vaccine candidate to the company. running. Palestinian Authority in Gaza and "mRNA-1273" showed it produced "Globally,one vaccine candidate that is In India, eight organizations are in the served as Counsellor at the Indian protective antibodies in a group of eight promising is Moderna's mRNA based fray with a vaccine candidate, half of Embassy in Washington D.C., USA. healthy volunteers, Moderna said. vaccine that showed promising results in which are companies and the other half He also served as Deputy Chief of The other closely watched COVID-19 the early trials," Upasana Ray, assistant non-industry, said Brooke Wilson, Mission at the Indian Embassy in vaccine is the one being developed by professor at CSIR-Indian Institute of associate director, Healthcare, Jakarta, Indonesia and as India's scientists at Oxford University. It Chemical Biology in Kolkata, told PTI. GlobalData. High Commissioner in Kuala appears protective in a small study of six RNA is the genetic material of the "These organizations are running or Lumpur, Malaysia. monkeys, promising findings that led to viruses. While conventional vaccines are planning to initiate 12 clinical trials, one He served as Under Secretary the start of human trials late last month. developed with an inactivated virus or is ongoing, recruiting and the other 11 (Bhutan), Director (Foreign "Because Moderna's is the only using proteins made by virus, are planned," Wilson told PTI. Secretary's Office), Joint Secretary vaccine having demonstrated any kind of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines work He explained that six of these trials (Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar immunologic response in the COVID-19 by introducing a synthetic sequence of are specifically for a COVID-19 vaccine and Maldives) and Joint Secretary field, we would consider this to be the the viruses' genetic material that while the other six trials use a vaccine (United Nations Economic and leading candidate," said Michael Breen, encodes the disease-specific protein to developed for other indications, such as Social) during his stints at the associate director, Infectious Disease, at trigger the body's immune system, the tuberculosis, adding that the majority of Ministry of External Affairs in New GlobalData, a UK-based data analytics experts explained. the trials are in Phase I, followed by Delhi. and consulting company. Discussing the Oxford University Phase 3 and Phase 2. Ambassador Tirumurti has "Of the vaccines in human trials, only vaccine, she said the work "deserves Explaining the various phases in the bachelor's degrees in Commerce and two have demonstrated any kind of applause but needs additional supportive development of a vaccine, E. Sreekumar, in Law. He is proficient in English, effectiveness," Breen told PTI, noting information and experiments". chief scientific officer at the Rajiv Hindi, Tamil and Arabic. He is that the Moderna study proves that the The preliminary findings of the Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology author of three books - Kissing the platform can lead to the production of Oxford study appeared on the preprint (RGCB) in Kerala, said Phase 1 trials are Heavens: The Kailash Mansarovar antibodies against a given virus. server bioRxiv. small-scale, usually involving few Yatra (1999), Clive Avenue (2002) and Moderna on Monday announced A preprint is a full draft research participants, to assess whether the Chennaivasi (2012). positive interim clinical data of mRNA- paper that is shared publicly before it vaccine is safe for humans. (Read full Ambassador Tirumurti is married 1273, from the Phase 1 study led by the has been peer reviewed or published in a story at www.theindianpanorama.news) to Mrs. Gowri Tirumurti, partner in law firm M/s Anand & Anand, which specializes in intellectual property rights. The couple has two children - Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz Issues Warnings to daughter, Bhavani and son, Vishwajit. Parents About Online Child Predators Ambassador Tirumurti has taken over as India's PR to the United QUEENS,NY(TIP) The spread of the of complaints regarding improper safety for children and parents. Nations at a time when UN is faced coronavirus has brought new challenges behavior towards teenagers and preteens NetSmartz.org is NCMEC's online safety with a number of contentious issues, and responsibilities to all the parents on the internet. Several of these education program. It provides age- among them the belligerent attitude and guardians in Queens County. With complaints have involved strangers appropriate videos and activities to help of President Trump towards the UN, schools closed many teens and preteens seeking inappropriate pictures of the teach children be safer online by particularly, towards the World are finding more time to explore the teens. becoming more aware of potential risks Health Organization (WHO), internet on computers and phones. Now more than ever, it is important to and being empowered to make safer accusing the agency of Teens are naturally curious about be aware of what your child is doing on choices on and offline. misrepresenting the facts with everything including their sexuality and their smartphones, tablets and If your child becomes a victim of an regard to COVID-19. Even as US in this very difficult time may find computers. Predators are aware that online predator, you should save president is fuming against WHO, themselves, through no fault of their children are home during the day and whatever evidence you have, including the news is in that India is the new own, in compromising positions online. may use this time to attempt to contact pictures, and take screenshots of chairman of WHO. The country's The National Center for Missing and them and lure them into inappropriate messages and contact information of the Health Minister Harsh Vardhan will Exploited Children has seen a rise in the situations. The National Center for predator. You should report it to your be occupying the chair. number of reports involving child sexual Missing and Exploited Children local precinct or call (646) 610-7272. Our abuse material on the internet. My office (NCMEC) offers free digital resources Computer Crime Unit is well equipped to has also seen an increase in the number through Netsmartz.org regarding online handle these complaints. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 NY/NJ/CT 7 Indian Woman Starts Business To Offer Affordable Masks For All First Priest of WARREN, NJ (TIP): Soft Cotton Face Flushing BAPS Shri Masks, a leading provider of face masks in Warren Township, announced, May 18 that it is expanding to meet the growing needs of individuals and businesses Swaminarayan grappling with the outbreak of COVID- 19. On April 1, Founder and CEO, Rohini Mandir Passes Away Anandan launched Soft Cotton Face Masks with her husband, Raj NEW YORK (TIP): The first and Singaravelu and began selling masks to primary Pujari (priest) of BAPS Shri the general public and soon after she Face mask manufacturing . Swaminarayan Mandir, at 43-38, began receiving larger orders from For representational purpose only Bowne Street, Flushing, NY 11355, business owners. They provide 100% Pujari Pratapbhai Raval has passed cotton, machine-washable masks in both 2019. "I was working on my next career away on May 13, 2020, at the age of 93 child and adult sizes. With business move-then COVID happened," said years. He is survived by his son professionals in mind, they offer a range Anandan. "And I kept hearing the same Priyam Raval and family. of office-friendly fabrics and will soon thing from my dad, who is a medical Pujari Pratapbhai Raval served as start offering the ability for business doctor in Warren, and from other family one of the first Hindu priests in New branding. Since launching, she's and friends who work in hospital York at the BAPS Swaminarayan partnered with local businesses to emergency rooms that there's just not Mandir. He had the honor of serving source materials and she's hired a team enough gear. I knew I could contribute the Hindu community at the behest of of individuals who help cut fabric and and make a difference." his gurus His Holiness Yogiji Maharaj, sew masks. In the coming months, she Anandan is not afraid of the unknown His Holiness Pramukh Swami hopes to expand to India so she can help and always up for a new challenge. And Maharaj, and His Holiness Mahant support women seamstresses from her that is why this mother of two decided to Swami Maharaj for over forty years. home country. dust off her sewing machine and start He served BAPS in Mumbai and Anandan foray into sewing started 10 making masks. She was able to collect thereafter he served as the Pujari in years ago while pregnant with her fabric and materials, and soon went on both London and New York BAPS daughter. Determined to make baby- to lead a group of 100+ local residents mandirs. With his exceptional Pujari Pratapbhai Raval served as one of sized dresses, she bought a sewing from the Warren Township Community service, he was instrumental in the first Hindu priests in New York at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir machine and learned the ropes on her Forum-which came into existence guiding and encouraging hundreds of own. during Hurricane Sandy-and members Indian-Americans over the years. He was an ideal example of a dedicated, Anandan moved from Chennai, India of the local Girl Scouts. selfless sevak. He has personally helped many new immigrants and went out to the U.S. in 1999 to attend The City Within days, and nearly 500 face masks of way to help the community. University of New York. Before the in hand, Anandan was put in touch with South Asian Community Leader Dilip Chauhan said, Pratapkaka's loss is a pandemic, she had spent the last 14 years Gail Pester, the Summit Medical Group loss for the entire Indian American Community. My sincere condolences to of her career as an IT executive. She Foundation's Director of Development. the entire BAPS Community of North America and India. He lived his life worked at UBS for more than ten years "Rohini was phenomenal with getting according to his guru's wishes, and has instilled the same values to his beloved as an Executive Director, and a year and the supply chain going within the town," grandson, Urdhva Raval. a half as Chief Operating Officer at said Pester. Lab49 before starting a sabbatical in July contd on Page 32 Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announces Human Trafficking Bureau contd from page 3 City with its rich cultural and ethnic exploited within Queens County to buyers of sex from continuing to exploit diversity. We are home to 2 international meaningful services, support and tools to young women sexually. District Attorney Katz said, "The sex airports and home to a large percentage of enable them to safely exit the sex trade These convictions, said DA Katz, trafficking industry is a brutal, degrading foreign born and undocumented persons. industry or their traffickers. demonstrate our commitment to and illegal enterprise that far too often Therefore, Queens is a prime At the same time, District Attorney Katz aggressively investigating and prosecuting profits by forcing women, children and geographical location for traffickers to said, she is focused on holding traffickers perpetrators of these degrading crimes members of our transgender community target and exploit those most at risk. and buyers of sex accountable for their that deprive many vulnerable members of into prostitution. But there are other Trafficking is not only a local issue, but role in the facilitation of human our community of their liberty and free forms of trafficking, such as forcing one involving our world community. trafficking. Recent prosecutions will. Human trafficking is a horrific form individuals to work with little or no pay. Traffickers often target already demonstrate this. In January 2020, 23-year- of modern-day slavery. This new and dedicated Bureau within my vulnerable and marginalized members of old Tyquan Henderson was convicted of In creating the Human Trafficking Office will combat those who would our society, such as our homeless youth, sex trafficking a 16-year-old victim. This Bureau, District Attorney Katz victimize others with aggressive undocumented immigrants, those with defendant is awaiting sentencing at which announced that she has appointed career investigations to end this industry. But I substance abuse or mental health issues, time he faces up to 9 years in prison. prosecutor Jessica L. Melton as the chief. want to be clear that we are also here to as well as those who face discrimination In February 2020, said DA Katz, Since 2007, when New York State's first help the victims find a path to freedom or gender inequality, and have little defendant David Viltus, 31, pleaded guilty Sex and Labor Trafficking laws took effect with services and programs that will give economic or social support systems. With to attempted murder for the heinous 13 years ago, ADA Melton has focused her them positive change in their lives and a respect to foreign born and attack against his transgender girlfriend. career solely on the prosecution of human future without fear. undocumented persons, traffickers The defendant repeatedly stabbed her in trafficking and related crimes. She The 2019 Trafficking in Persons Report, routinely use threats and fear of the head and face after she refused to obtained the first conviction for sex issued by the U.S. Department of State, imprisonment and deportation to continue to engage in prostitution. Viltus trafficking in New York State and the first reveals that a staggering 24.9 million maintain control over their victims to is expected to be sentenced to 10 years in labor trafficking conviction in Queens people are robbed of their freedom and continue their exploitation. prison later this month. In another case, County. In 2013, she was awarded the basic human dignity by sex and labor In responding to this epidemic and defendant Julius Heusner, 27, was prestigious Thomas E. Dewey medal by traffickers. Here in the United States, advancing her anti-trafficking policies the sentenced on a felony charge of the New York City Bar Association for her traffickers often use violence, threats, District Attorney said this newly formed aggravated patronizing a minor for work in combating human trafficking. deception, debt bondage and other Human Trafficking Bureau will have a prostitution, related to paying a 16-year- The Human Trafficking Bureau will manipulative tactics to force people to dedicated staff of assistant district old child to perform sex acts on him in a operate within the District Attorney s engage in commercial sex or to provide attorneys, social workers, detectives and parked car. The defendant is required to Office s Investigations Division under the labor or services against their will. analysts. The Bureau will connect those register as a sex offender and complete a overall supervision of Executive District Queens County is leading in New York who are being victimized or commercially program designed to educated and deter Attorney Gerard A. Brave. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 8 EDITORIAL FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 AS I SEE IT

By Ambassador Asoke Reforming the UN system after Covid-19 Mukerji education, infrastructure, employment, efficient and transparent and thus to The current global crisis demands and equality of opportunity. further enhance its effectiveness and the global leadership. This is a major Acrucial sentence in the Preamble of legitimacy and implementation of its opportunity for India, together with a Agenda 2030 encapsulates the inter-linked decisions." In 2007, the UNGA coalition of member-states whose nature of the global challenges of the 21st unanimously agreed to establish an inter- century. World leaders unanimously governmental negotiating platform to national aspirations in a post- agreed that "there can be no sustainable implement this mandate. In 2008 the UNGA Covid19 world depend on effective development without peace and no peace unanimously agreed on five specific areas international cooperation, to rise to without sustainable development". This for reform of the UNSC including the the challenge. can only be ensured if there is a supportive question of the veto. In 2015, the UNGA global environment of peace and security, unanimously agreed to use written hen the United Nations (UN) was which requires an effective UNSC. proposals by over 120 member-states on the creation of UN Women for gender conceptualized during the Second However, the UNSC's ineffectiveness in these five areas to negotiate a resolution to equality and the empowerment of women WWorld War to "save succeeding responding to challenges to international amend the UN Charter. (2010), the agreement on Agenda 2030 on generations from the scourge of war", its peace and security has become a major Since then, the momentum in the Sustainable Development (2015), a two major objectives were to secure and to factor behind the fragmentation of negotiations has been stymied by the P5, coordinated approach to countering sustain international peace and security. international cooperation. Such challenges led by China. At the core of the status quo terrorism through a Global Counter- Among the six principal organs of the UN, include the increased recourse to position of the P5 is their shared interest in Terrorism Strategy (2006) and Office of the UN Security Council (UNSC) was unilateral policies by its five permanent keeping intact the provision of Article 27.3 Counter-Terrorism (2017), and the ongoing mandated by all signatory states of the UN members (China, France, the Russian of the UN Charter that confers on each of impact of digital technologies on peace, Charter with the "primary responsibility" Federation, the United Kingdom and the them the power to 'veto' substantive security and development. Only a General for securing international peace and United States of America, known as the decisions of the UNSC. Historically, the Conference can enable a review of the security.The Economic and Social Council P5), the increasing number of intra-state 'veto' provision was agreed upon between provisions of the 1945 UN Charter to bring (ECOSOC) of the UN General Assembly conflicts within UN member-states, the the United States, United Kingdom and these initiatives into the context of making (UNGA) was entrusted with sustaining unfettered activities of designated USSR at Yalta in February 1945. Despite the UN "fit for purpose" in the 21st century. international cooperation to achieve socio- terrorist entities and individuals, and the calls to discuss this provision during the During the last decade, any initiative to economic progress, including upholding lack of a coherent political direction by the San Francisco Conference held between implement Article 109 of the UN Charter human rights and fundamental freedoms UNSC to support the UN's response to April-June 1945, the permanent members and convene a General Conference has for all. As the UN commemorates the 75th global challenges, including the current resisted any attempt to reopen the Yalta been deflected by pointing to the ongoing anniversary of its establishment in Covid-19 pandemic. More than 70 million agreement on the veto. inter-governmental negotiations on UNSC September 2020, it is apparent that the people across the five continents are Participating countries at the San reforms, which were expected to result in implementation of this holistic vision of currently impacted by the breakdown of Francisco Conference eventually amending provisions of the UN Charter. the UN Charter has been fragmented. That international peace and security. This is acquiesced with the P5's veto provision in Today, the hard reality is that these inter- is the basis for calls for reform of the UN. the largest such number since the Second the expectation that this would ensure a governmental negotiations on UNSC On the positive side, the ECOSOC and the World War ended. The responsibility for supportive framework of peace and reform are deadlocked with no end in sight. UN General Assembly have succeeded in this disaster lies squarely with the UNSC. security for their reconstruction and World leaders meeting at the UN's 75th responding to the single biggest change in The main reason for the UNSC's development after the war. Their view was anniversary Summit on 21 September 2020 international relations since the end of the ineffectiveness is the 'veto' provision of the facilitated by the understanding, contained therefore must address this paradoxical Second World War. Decolonization enabled P5 applied to decision-making by the in Article 109 of the UN Charter, that the situation, which holds the key to any reform hundreds of millions of people in former Council. Although used in public as a provisions of the treaty would be reviewed of the UN. To do so, they must agree to colonies to be integrated into the UN system measure of last resort during voting on a ten years after the Charter was ratified (i.e. convene the General Conference provided based on freedom and equality. Their UNSC resolution, the P5 have consistently by 1955) by a General Conference of the UN. for in Article 109 of the UN Charter. Any aspirations have become the focus of the leveraged their 'veto' power to pursue their Despite this provision, such a General proposal to hold such a Conference can be work of the UN and its specialized agencies. increasingly narrow self-interest. Most Conference has never been convened. The put on the agenda of the UNGA "if so In the past four decades, these two recently, China used this power during its last major opportunity for the UN to do so decided by a majority vote of the members organs of the UN have succeeded in Presidency of the UNSC in March 2020 to was following its 60th anniversary Summit of the General Assembly and by a vote of creating a vibrant framework for prevent any discussion on the impact of in 2005. In the Summit declaration, world any seven members of the Security upholding human rights. They have Covid-19 on international peace, security,and leaders had unanimously agreed to amend Council." The current global crisis demands converged the twin objectives of climate sustainable development. The United States provisions of the UN Charter to delete global leadership. This is a major opportunity change and accelerated development into used this power to prevent the adoption of a references to "enemy state" (Germany, for India, together with a coalition of member- Agenda 2030, with its 17 Sustainable UNSC resolution supporting an all-of-UN Japan and Italy), the Trusteeship Council states whose national aspirations in a post- Development Goals. Adopted unanimously response to Covid-19 on 8 May 2020. (which had "no remaining functions") and Covid19 world depend on effective international by world leaders in September 2015, Fifteen years ago, at the 60th anniversary UNSC reforms. cooperation, to rise to the challenge. Agenda 2030 is the first multi-stakeholder of the UN in 2005, world leaders had Since 2005, the UN has undertaken (Ambassador Asoke Mukerji served in the universally agreed global framework for unanimously agreed that a malfunctioning significant activities which need to be Indian Foreign Service for more than 37 years, socio-economic progress. The adoption of UNSC needed to undergo early reform. integrated into the provisions of its retiring as India's Ambassador and Permanent Agenda 2030 signaled an awakened hope in They mandated such reform to make the Charter. These include the establishment Representative to the United Nations in New York in December 2015) ordinary people for better health, UNSC "more broadly representative, of the UN Human Rights Council (2006), GUEST COMMENT COVID-19 PROBE India poised to play key China in a month. Even as the number of charge as the chairman of the WHO's 34- China slanging match. Only the WHO role in course correction coronavirus cases has crossed 50 lakh member Executive Board. India, which has the wherewithal to spearhead the he World Health Organisation globally and the death toll is above 3.25 has recorded more than 1 lakh Covid global fight against Covid-19. India has a (WHO) has been receiving more lakh, about 130 countries, including cases and over 3,000 deaths so far, is chance to rise to the occasion by Tbrickbats than bouquets for its India, have endorsed a resolution to poised to play a bigger role on the world advising and assisting the world body in handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. The probe the origin of the virus and carry stage in dealing with the disease. The performing its operations efficiently and UN health body finds itself caught in the out an 'impartial, independent and promptness in extending a helping hand autonomously. The top priority should crossfire between superpowers China comprehensive' evaluation of the global to other countries by supplying be to contain the virus unitedly, rising and the US. China has called on the response to the Covid outbreak. A free medicines and medical equipment has above geopolitical rivalries. It's also vital international community to increase and fair inquiry is needed to ascertain earned New Delhi diplomatic goodwill. to fast-track the probe so that course political and financial support to the the truth and fix accountability for the The new responsibility will test the correction can be done, and the world WHO, while the US has threatened to crisis that has engulfed the world. country's mettle as it strives to becomes better prepared to handle such permanently freeze the flow of funds In a development particularly strengthen its healthcare infrastructure. pandemics. and pull out of the organization if it fails significant for India, Union Health It will also be critical for India to hold (Tribune, India) to demonstrate its 'independence' from Minister Harsh Vardhan is set to take its ground and steer clear of the US- THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 PERSPECTIVE 9 Migrant crisis may help plan viable roadmap More technocrats should head senior positions. By chance, we do have a doctor as the Health Minister but the By BL Vohra officials working in the ministries and at the cutting-edge Since the beginning of the level are not medicos. It's important to have technocrats in nationwide lockdown due to such positions because today it is a health problem, “the Covid-19 pandemic, India tomorrow it can be a problem in space or cyber fields. and the world have seen on TV channels disturbing pictures of But this problem has also given a lot of ammunition to service. the Opposition, who are criticizing the Centre for not Thirdly,for putting every plan in action, there should thousands of migrant workers - looking after these people. This has also given a cause to be SOPs and rehearsals as per these like it is done in including women and children - many activists who have been approaching the disaster management situations or war exercises. Supreme Court, trying to get directions to the Central Fourthly, where a large-scale movement of the walking on foot or some other government to look after these migrant workers, working class is inevitable, plans should be prepared to means of transport, to reach their financially and otherwise, helping them in reaching keep the movement to the minimum and take care of home, while accusing it of being insensitive to the their comfort. The lessons learnt during the current home states hundreds of miles needs of the poor folk. Covid crisis will be a good foundation to work on these In the process, the rosy picture of India emerging as plans. away from the places where they a superpower has taken a beating. It won't be fair to lay Fifthly, there should be heavy investment in have been working for a the entire blame on the doorsteps of the Central education and healthcare. Had it been done earlier, government and its leadership for this situation. After migrant workers would have behaved differently, and livelihood. We have also seen the all, it was a sudden calamity, not only for India but the we wouldn't have been struggling to put up a healthcare images of protests by those whole world. Many powerful countries with less system to match the current need. Luckily, we haven't population and rich economy and much better failed because the problem is not that big in India so far. wanting to go home at railway healthcare systems have fallen by the wayside. The Sixthly,and very importantly,the bureaucracy has to stations at many places." government had to respond quickly and rightly leading be more nimble-footed. As per the general perception, to a lockdown which has caused this hardship to it hasn't covered itself with glory during this recent millions of migrant workers. tragedy. For these, large-scale changes are required, The way forward should be to ease their pain as much from recruitment to training and attitude etc. The PM as possible and learn lessons so that we're better must give a push to this like Margaret Thatcher, the prepared in the future when such situations arise. The then British PM, had done during her tenure in the UK. two examples of sudden demonetization and lockdown It is also suggested that senior bureaucrats should be leading to hardships are sufficient for us to learn hired or employed for a ten-year period and their lessons and plan a roadmap. Some of the suggested tenure getting extended for the next ten years should steps are as follows: depend on their performance during the first term. In First, there should be no sudden announcements as all, there should be two extensions, i.e. they shouldn't far as possible. Of course, in a war-like situation, such serve for more than 30 years. It should apply to all sudden action can't be ruled out. services. The rosy picture of India emerging as a superpower has taken Secondly, there should be careful planning to ensure Seventhly, more technocrats should head senior a beating after the exodus of workers from cities and towns that the poor don't suffer from hardships. The Central positions like secretaries and joint secretaries. In the and state governments should prepare contingency recent case, we do have a doctor by chance as the Union plans based on past experience in India and abroad, and Health Minister but the officials working in the ince the beginning of the nationwide lockdown about an unlikely situation like the coronavirus. It ministries and at the cutting-edge level are not due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India and the world should include possible situations in areas like defense, medicos. It's important that we have technocrats in Shave seen on TV channels disturbing pictures of warfare of different kinds including those in space and such positions because today it is a health problem, thousands of migrant workers - including women and cyber fields, internal security, medical situations, tomorrow it can be a problem in the space or cyber children - walking on foot or some other means of severe natural disasters and many more. Such a field. So, those knowledgeable in such areas will do a transport, to reach their home states hundreds of miles planning will help. I recall today with satisfaction that much better job. away from the places where they have been working for as the Director General, Civil Defence, Government of Next, the wages and other facilities or service a livelihood. We have also seen the images of protests by India, I had formulated the proposal of raising the conditions of the technocrats and others like the police those wanting to go home at railway stations at many NDRF in 2003, considering the necessity which should be at par with the top civil service to places. fructified and now we have this force doing a great acknowledge their contribution. Today, even though Such images continue even today. Heart-wrenching the technocrats are more qualified, they serve under stories of their misfortune in not getting shelter or food non-technical persons and have a lower position in and being stopped every now and then with some society. brutality at times at the hands of the police disappoint Also, departments like the police, health, space and a lot. Some of them have lost their lives in accidents. others should be reporting directly to the ministers Though trains and earlier buses have been used to ferry rather than through the senior bureaucracy. them, their number is too big. Besides, many of them Lastly, political parties need to be more sensitive to don't have money to buy tickets though most of the bill the needs of the country and society.Politicking should is being footed by the government. This has sullied the be avoided. The good of the nation and showing unity image of India even though they had been advised by to the world in adversity should be the aim of parties. the government against moving like this, and shelter It doesn't mean that they shouldn't find fault with each and food is being provided to most of them by the state other for the wrongs that are being done in their and Central governments, and by NGOs, corporates and assessment, but the tools used to criticize should be well-meaning individuals. decent. They shouldn't oppose always for the sake of The Prime Minister announced a sum of Rs one opposing. thousand crore from the PM Cares Fund for these India is great and so are Indians. Nobody can stop migrants recently.And the Union Finance Minister has our march to being a super-power in the current announced free distribution of ration to them for two century,but for that, a lot of hard work is required, and months; more work under MGNREGA once they are specially to acquire competency in dealing with sudden back to their villages etc. But basically, their demand situations for which we should be well prepared. now is psychological - to reach home come what may. The lost childhood (The author is a former DGP, Tripura) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 10 SOUTH ASIA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Aid seekers’ stampede leaves 3 dead in Lanka Over 1 million consumers lose COLOMBO (TIP): At least three women were killed and eight others power supply as super cyclone hits injured in a stampede on Thursday when a large number of people gathered at the residence of a wealthy businessman who was distributing Bangladesh coast; 1 dead cash to the families affected by the coronavirus lockdown. DHAKA (TIP): Over one million The Muslim businessman was consumers in the coastal areas of distributing Rs 5,000 to persons, who Bangladesh were without power after lost their livelihood in the coronavirus strong winds snapped electricity lines crisis, to mark the 27th day of the and many houses destroyed as the Ramzan fast, police said. country was hit by a powerful cyclone on A large number of people gathered Wednesday that killed at least one at the businessman’s house in Central person. Colombo’s Maligawatta area violating Cyclone ‘Amphan’, the strongest to hit the Covid-19 lockdown curfew, police the region in nearly two decades, made a said. Police said at least six persons landfall on Wednesday evening. have been arrested. Authorities raised the alert level to The health authorities reported that ‘great danger’ for some districts in the Sri Lanka, which has 1,045 Covid- country as the cyclone, the most 19cases and nine deaths, eased the powerful storm since cyclone ‘Sidr’ lockdown rules allowing businesses killed nearly 3,500 people in 2007, and offices to re-open while complying approached the coastline. with health regulations. The health “More than one million consumers in authorities claim that curfew would at least 17 associations of the Rural continue till all Covid clusters were Electrification Board have lost deactivated. —PTI electricity,” bdnews24.com reported. Apart from this, almost 40,000 2 quakes jolt Nepal customers of West Zone Power victim of cyclone Amphan. preparations in facing the possible in 2 hrs Distribution Company have lost “He was on a boat along with four assault of the super cyclone. electricity supply. others when a sudden storm under “Twenty lakh people have so far been KATHMANDU (TIP): Two medium The cyclone made landfall at 2.30 pm advancing Amphan’s influence evacuated to the cyclone centres as part intensity earthquakes hit Nepal on between Digha in West Bengal and overturned it. Three others managed to of the prior preparation,” Hasina was Thursday in a span of six hours, the Hatiya island in Bangladesh, flattening escape,” BDRC’s cyclone preparedness quoted as saying by The Daily Star National Seismological Centre said. fragile dwellings, uprooting trees and programme Nurul Islam Khan told PTI. newspaper. However, there was no report of any electric poles. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister The Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air loss of life or damage to property due The cyclone ‘Amphan’ started crossing Sheikh Hasina said authorities had Force have made preparations to tackle to the tremors. The first jolt measuring the Bangladesh coast around 5 pm on shifted over two million people to storm the super cyclone which has moved a magnitude of 3 on the Richter scale Wednesday packing a wind speed of shelters and deployed the military to within 400km of Bangladesh’s coast and hit Darchula district in far-west Nepal around 160 to 180kph rising to 200kph deal with the powerful cyclone ‘Amphan’. is expected to make landfall on at 2.45 am. within 80km of its centre, meteorologist “We have the preparations (to face Wednesday evening, Bdnews24.com Another quake of 3.4 magnitude Abdul Mannan was quoted as saying by cyclone Amphan). We are taking all reported. struck Bhaktapur district, 15 km east the news portal. possible measures that we should adopt Meanwhile, some 740 houses in of Kathmandu, at 8.14 am. The A Bangladesh Red Crescent Society for protecting the lives and properties of Patuakhali were washed away as an epicentre of the quake was at (BDRC) volunteer drowned on the people from the cyclone,” Prime advanced surge of tidal wave cracked a Anantalingeshwor area in the district. Wednesday when a boat capsized while Minister Hasina told a meeting of the coastal embankment while the cyclone Slight tremor was also felt in and evacuating villagers to safety in south- National Disaster Management Council was approaching, officials said. PTI around Kathmandu city. —PTI western Patuakhali, becoming the first (NDMC) formed to review the Pak woman legislator dies of coronavirus Pakistani man arrested for killing ISLAMABAD (TIP): A 60-year-old woman legislator of the ruling 2 teenage girls over leaked video Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party in Punjab province died of COVID-19 on ISLAMABAD (TIP): Police in certificates for police officials over Wednesday, making her the first Pakistan’s North Waziristan has arrests in the honour killing case. lawmaker in the country to succumb to arrested a man suspected to have Besides Aslam, the police police the virus that has killed over 900 killed two teenage girls in the name have arrested four suspects in the others in Pakistan. of ‘honour’ after a short mobile case—Ayaz, Fida Mohammad, father Shaheen Raza, 60, was admitted to video of them with a young man of one of the girls, Zadwal Khan, and the Mayo hospital in Lahore a few days surfaced online, the media reported the girl’s cousin, Roohuddin. ago after she was tested positive for the on Thursday. The police claimed that the family coronavirus. The girls were gunned down on of the deceased had kept the killings Her health deteriorated over the May 14 in Shamplan Garyam village a secret, so the relevant station weekend following which she was put after their ‘objectionable’ video house officer registered the FIR as on ventilator, Gujranwala Deputy footage went viral on social media, the complainant, reports Dawn news. Commissioner Sohail Ashraf said. said the Dawn news report. Ayaz, confessed before a local court The area where the incident took However, Raza succumbed to the On Wednesday, North Waziristan that he had recorded the video. place is far-flung and considered viral infection in the hospital on district police officer Shafiullah A senior police official said Ayaz risky in terms of security. Wednesday, he said. Gandapur said the suspected killer, told the court that he used the The incident comes nearly eight She was also suffering from other Mohammad Aslam, who was a cousin mobile phone of his friend, Fida years after the 2012 Kohistan video diseases like high blood pressure and of the two girls, was held during a Wazir, who had already been held by scandal, in which three women were diabetes and her situation deteriorated raid in an unidentified location. the police. killed for honour after a grainy video fast, officials said. He had gone into hiding after the Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa showing them singing and clapping Prior to developing coronavirus murders. Inspector General of Police while two boys danced had gone viral symptoms, Raza had been inspecting Earlier in the day, a central Sanaullah Abbasi announced cash in the ultra-conservative and remote various quarantine centres. PTI character of the incident, Umer reward and commendation district. — IANS THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 ADVERTISEMENT1 11 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 12 US FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 Michigan river rises to highest level ever after dam break MICHIGAN (TIP: A dam breach in over," Kaye said. "It's a bright sunny day. central Michigan that forced thousands For those of you that are Midlanders that to evacuate has swelled the have been here in the past, you know that Tittabawassee River to its highest level every time we flood, it seems to be a in history, forecasters said Wednesday, bright, sunny cloudless day ... that May 20. doesn't mean it's over. It doesn't mean The earthen Edenville Dam held back that things aren't going to get worse than the river, which reached the record high they are right now." of 34 feet in Midland, the National According to records, the company Weather Service said. that owns the dam had a federal license Forecasters from the NWS said the revoked in 2018. Tittabawassee River is expected to The Federal Energy Regulatory fluctuate to around 35 feet before Commission revoked the license for beginning to drop at around midnight. Boyce Hydro Power to generate power at They previously predicted the river the Edenville Dam, citing the company's could crest at 38 feet. failure over a years-long span to correct The Edenville Dam ruptured Tuesday, safety problems, including its ability to May 19, after swelling with several withstand a major flood. inches of rain, and was followed by the FERC regulators said they were failure of Sanford Dam in Midland revoking the license because of the County. The failures forced thousands to company's "longstanding failure to evacuate Midland and surrounding increase the project's spillway capacity areas and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Flooding is seen in Midland, Mich., after a dam failed on Tuesday and forced thousands to to safely pass flood flows, as well as its Whitmer declared a state of emergency. evacuate. Photo courtesy City of Midland/Facebook failure to comply with its license" and "This is unlike anything we've seen in Downtown Midland, the site of a major Wednesday that the flood is expected to commission regulations. Midland County," Whitmer said at a news Dow Chemical plant, is projected to be reach its peak height at around 9 p.m. Midland County and neighboring conference Tuesday."If you have a family under as many as 9 feet of water by late and encouraged residents to remain Gladwin Country agreed to buy the dams member or loved one who lives in Wednesday, Whitmer said. vigilant. "The important point that I from Boyce Hydro in January. another part of the state, go there now." Midland City Manager Brad Kaye said really want to stress ... is that this is not (Source: UPI) University of California eliminates More than 43 Million file for SAT/ACT requirement unemployment benefits OAKLAND(TIP) : University of WASHINGTON (TIP): More than 4 California regents voted Thursday, million U.S. workers filed for jobless May 21, to stop requiring high school benefits last week, the Labor students to submit an SAT or ACT Department said Thursday, May 21. That score for admission, the biggest blow brings the total number of people yet to the traditional standardized applying for aid to more than 43 million, tests as leaders of the elite public on a seasonally adjusted basis, since the system attempt to address fairness coronavirus pandemic spread across the concerns. nation. UC's new policy, proposed by system Put another way, 1 in 4 U.S. workers President Janet Napolitano, calls for has applied for jobless aid in the last 10 layoffs are slowing. However, the figures the SAT and ACT to be suspended weeks. remain staggering by historical through 2024 as the university "Unemployment claims made during standards, demonstrating that severe attempts to develop its own testing University of California office of the President the coronavirus crisis have already economic pain is widespread even as the standard. The tests will be completely claiming the SAT and ACT are exceeded the 37 million claims made majority of U.S. states reopen their eliminated in 2025, regardless of discriminatory. over the entire 18 months of the Great economies. whether a new or modified UC-specific "We consider the use of the exam to Recession," Daniel Zhao, senior "Reopening the economy does not standard has been approved for use. be an antiquated approach to economist at Glassdoor, said in a note. necessarily equate with robust Prospective students will have the admissions, and one that undermines "[T]he labor market remains in a deep rehiring," Andy Stettner, a senior fellow option of submitting standardized test equity and ignores appropriate hole it will have to climb out of." at the Century Foundation, wrote in a scores through 2022, keeping intact a indicators of college aptitude," said Some 2.4 million workers applied for note. While 35 states reopened last week, strategy recently implemented by Frances Contreras, a UC San Diego regular unemployment insurance in the nine of them actually saw an increase in universities across the nation as the professor and co-chair of the UC week ending May 16, marking a slight the number of new workers claiming coronavirus pandemic has hindered Chicano/Latino Advisory Council, decrease from the week before. But unemployment benefits, he pointed out. the ability of many students to take during public comment. "We asked the nearly as many - 2.2 million - applied for "The unemployment rate now stands the tests. Beginning in 2023, the SAT question, what is added value?" aid under Pandemic Unemployment at a staggering 14.7% - a figure I hoped and ACT will have no impact on the The regents' vote comes despite Assistance, a new federal program for that I would never see in my lifetime, and admissions process, though students recommendations from the UC self-employed and gig workers. one that is sure to get worse before it gets could still submit scores to determine academic senate that the SAT and ACT The self-employed were not being better," John Williams, president of the eligibility for certain scholarships and remain in use until the system counted in previous weekly jobless Federal Reserve Bank of New York, said post-enrollment class placement. develops a new test. figures until last week. The true number Thursday morning. The vote comes after decades of In a 200-page report released of jobless self-employed people is likely "It's likely that the latest numbers do opposition to standardized testing January, the academic senate's even higher, as not all states are not reveal the full extent of the financial from civil rights groups and education Standardized Testing Task Force currently reporting their PUA payout devastation faced by millions of experts who say it favors wealthier, argued that dropping the tests without figures, noted economist Heidi American families. The data don't predominantly white students who can another option in place would result in Shierholz. capture those who had to leave their pay for extensive test prep. Most lower student GPAs after their first The number of first-time applications jobs, either for their own health or to recently, the UC system was sued by a years, lower probability of graduating for traditional jobless aid has steadily take care of loved ones," Williams said. group of students, education advocacy within seven years and lower GPAs at declined each week since peaking in late (Read full story at groups and public-school districts graduation. (Agencies) March, indicating that the waves of www.theindianpanorama.news) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 US 13 Indian American Congressman Votes to Provide Urgent Relief to Frontline Health Care Workers

WASHINGTON (TIP): Indian origin The Heroes Act would: types and offering flexible support Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-07) ● Provide strong support for our to small businesses by providing $10 voted May 15 to provide urgently needed heroes by sending nearly $1 trillion billion for Covid-19 emergency support for frontline health care in funds to state and local grants through the Economic workers, families, and small businesses. governments on the frontlines to Injury Disaster Loan program. The Heroes Act, which passed the House pay the health care workers, police ● Support housing security with $175 of Representatives, would provide $900 officers, firefighters, transportation billion in resources to assist renters million in relief funding for Sacramento workers, EMS personnel, teachers and homeowners pay for their rent County and $190 million to cities in CA- and other vital workers who keep us and mortgages, utility payments, 07 over the next two years. safe every day. The Heroes Act will and other housing-related costs. "Our country is indebted to our also establish a $200 billion Heroes' ● Supports food security with a 15 brave frontline health care workers Fund to ensure that essential percent increase to the maximum and emergency personnel who workers receive hazard pay. SNAP benefit and additional continue to courageously put ● Put money in the pockets of funding for nutrition programs that themselves in harm's way to keep our workers with a second round of help families put food on the table. communities safe and healthy. We have direct payments to families for up to Included in the Heroes Act are Bera- a responsibility to ensure our heroes $6,000 per household, new payroll led provisions to increase COVID-19 receive all the support possible, and protection measures to keep 60 testing and contact tracing. that's why I'm proud to vote to get million workers connected with "Widespread testing and contact additional resources to them," said their jobs, and extending the tracing are key to ensuring states and Included in the Heroes Act are Bera-led Rep. Bera. "Today's vote is also an emergency weekly $600 federal communities can safely and confidently provisions to increase COVID-19 testing and important step in getting our unemployment benefits through reopen. I'm proud that the House voted to contact tracing communities back on a path to next January. include my proposals to get additional economic recovery. American families ● Support small businesses by testing funds to communities," said Rep. widespread antibody testing and contact and small businesses have been hit strengthening the Payroll Bera. tracing. He sent a letter to incredibly hard by this pandemic and Protection Program to ensure that Rep. Bera has been a leader in Administration on April 8 urging them they need to know that help is on the it reaches underserved Congress on calling for the creation of a to address testing shortfalls during the way." communities and nonprofits of all national testing strategy that includes pandemic. Indian American Lawmaker Senate confirms Rep. John Ratcliffe as Introduces Paycheck Recovery Act next director of national intelligence

WASHINGTON (TIP): U.S. WASHINGTON (TIP): The Senate Representative Pramila confirmed Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Tex.) as the Jayapal (WA-07), Co-Chair of next director of national intelligence on the Congressional Thursday, May 21, capping an unusually Progressive Caucus, protracted process that saw the congressman introduced H.R. 6918, the withdraw his nomination last year in the face Paycheck Recovery Act today of bipartisan opposition, only to have as a policy solution that President Trump challenge members of his delivers working people own party and nominate Ratcliffe again seven immediate relief and months later. certainty while matching the The Senate voted 49-to-44 to confirm Ratcliffe scale of the current public along party lines. He received more votes health and economic crisis. against his confirmation than any DNI in the The Senate voted 49-to-44 to confirm Ratcliffe along party lines The Paycheck Recovery Act 15-year history of the office. ends mass unemployment, Ratcliffe will assume leadership of a anti-terrorism and national security in the keeps workers connected to sprawling federation of 17 intelligence Eastern District of Texas, a position created With wide -ranging support, Jayapal Paycheck Recovery Act to keep workers in their paychecks, returns agencies, with a collective budget of at least $60 after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in a jurisdiction their jobs, stop mass unemployment and millions of workers who have billion, at an acutely vulnerable moment for that didn't see a high volume of terrorism deliver direct relief to businesses of all sizes been laid off or furloughed U.S. national security. Still in the throes of a cases. President George W. Bush later since March 1 back to payroll pandemic that has killed more than 90,000 appointed Ratcliffe as the interim U.S. attorney. and health care and prevents employers of all sizes from being forced people in the U.S. and wrought economic But former colleagues and records showed to close permanently. H.R. 6918 is co-sponsored by 93 members of devastation, the U.S. is facing a dramatic that Ratcliffe didn't play a significant role in Congress from across the ideological spectrum, including many escalation in tensions with China, the source of any terrorism cases, contrary to his public Frontline Members. the viral outbreak; the prospect of repeated claims. In a news release, Ratcliffe had touted "Mass unemployment is a policy choice, and we must choose Russian interference in the 2020 election, his "special appointment as the prosecutor" in differently by passing an urgent proposal that matches the scale of this which the intelligence community Ratcliffe a high-profile terrorism financing case in 2008, crisis while delivering certainty and direct relief to workers, will lead has said is all but certain; and painful U.S. v. Holy Land Foundation. But a businesses of all sizes and the economy," said Congresswoman Jayapal. decisions about how to support security and spokesperson later acknowledged that "The Paycheck Recovery Act will end mass unemployment, put workers defense budgets when the government is Ratcliffe's assignment wasn't to prosecute the back on their paychecks and health care and keep businesses from spending trillions of dollars to keep the case but rather "to investigate issues related to" closing permanently while ensuring workers aren't forced to return to economy from collapsing. why an initial prosecution of Holy Land work before it is safe to do so." When Trump first tapped Ratcliffe for the Foundation resulted in a mistrial. At a time when the unemployment rate is at its highest level since the post last June, Democrats and Republicans Ratcliffe also distorted his record on Great Depression and more than 37 million workers have lost their jobs alike were cool to the choice. Ratcliffe had immigration enforcement, a key policy priority during COVID-19, the Paycheck Recovery Act would deliver certainty never worked in the intelligence community. of the Trump administration, boasting during and stability by covering the full wages of workers earning salaries up And his connections to national security more his campaign and on his congressional website to $90,000 and ensuring employers can rehire those laid-off or broadly proved both tenuous - a few years as a that he "arrested 300 illegal immigrants in a furloughed since March 1. It does this in a quick and direct manner by federal prosecutor - and exaggerated. single day." That wasn't true. utilizing existing payroll tax infrastructure instead of relationships To bolster his nomination, Ratcliffe pointed (Read full story at www.theindianpanorama.news) with banks and lending institutions. to his service, beginning in 2004, as the chief of THE INDIAN PANORAMA 14 INDIA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 Another biggest single-day spike, over 6,088 new Covid-19 cases in 24 hours

NEW DELHI (TIP): India’s tally of the coronavirus disease (Covid- 19) stood at 118,447 on Friday as 6,088 new cases, the second biggest single- day surge in a week, were reported in the last 24 hours, according to the AIIMS TO STUDY HOW LONG Union health ministry. The number of Covid-19 cases had CORONAVIRUS CAN SURVIVE risen by 5,611, the country’s biggest single-day jump, to reach 106,750 on IN DEAD BODIES Wednesday. According to the health ministry NEW DELHI (TIP): AIIMS doctors are dashboard at 8am, there were 66,330 contemplating autopsy of a COVID-19 victim to active cases of the respiratory study how long the coronavirus can survive in a disease in the country and 3,583 dead body and if it can transmit the infection, the people succumbed in the last 24 Delhi hospital’s forensic chief said on Thursday. hours. The study will also help ascertain how the virus With 48,533 Covid-19 patients sent SONIA BOOKED FOR CONG TWEET affects the organs, Dr Sudhir Gupta said. home, the recovery rate went up to CLAIMING MISUSE OF PM FUND An informed consent will be obtained from the 40.97% on the fifth day of the fourth legal heirs of the deceased for it, he said adding that phase of the national lockdown, BENGALURU (TIP): A case has registration of the case. The case many more departments like pathology and data suggested. This is up from been registered against Congress has been registered under Sections microbiology would be involved in the study. “It is about 7% before the first phase of president Sonia Gandhi in 153 and 505 (1)(B) of the IPC, which going to be a first-of-its-kind exercise and thus has to the lockdown began on March 25. Karnataka in connection with a relate to wantonly provoking people be planned meticulously. It will help us understand The worst-affected state in India, tweet posted on the party’s official and inciting them to commit how the virus behaves in the body and the way it Maharashtra has more than 41,000 handle alleging misuse of PM- offence against any other class or affects the organs. Also, it will help us assess how Covid-19 and has reported 1,454 CARES Fund. The Sagara town community. The complainant long the novel coronavirus can survive in a dead fatalities. It had reported more than police in Shivamogga district alleged that on May 11 at 6 pm, the body,” Dr Gupta explained. 2,000 Covid-19 infections for the fifth registered the case on Wednesday INC India Twitter account posted On Tuesday, the apex health research body ICMR straight day on Thursday as it based on a complaint by Praveen messages against Prime Minister said COVID-19 is a respiratory infection and mainly breached the 40,000-mark with 2,345 KV, who alleged that @INCIndia, Narendra Modi alleging ‘misuse’ of spread through aerosols. new cases, the second-highest the official Twitter handle of the PM-CARES Fund set up to enable As per the available scientific literature till now, single-day spike so far. Congress, tried to create distrust people contribute to help the the survival of virus gradually decreases with time Tamil Nadu is the second-worst among masses with its tweet by government fight against in a dead body but there is no specific time limit to hit state with 13,967 cases as Gujarat spreading ‘baseless charges’. The coronavirus and “similar declare the body non-infective. So, it is advisable to recorded 12,905 patients so far. state Congress condemned the distressing situations”. adopt precautions and non-invasive autopsy However, the western state has 773 technique, it stated. fatalities as compared to 94 in Tamil three days, the data shows. particularly the night curfew, to Non-invasive autopsy technique as described in Nadu. As the government announced on make sure people observe social ICMR guidelines should be used, if at all required, to According to the health ministry, Thursday it will reopen air travel on distancing norms and contain the prevent the risk of spreading the infection to Delhi has 11,659 cases of the 383 routes across the country after a risk of infection spreading. mortuary staff, police personnel and contamination coronavirus disease and 194 people two-month gap and allowed one- The two-week fourth phase of the of mortuary surfaces. have died in the national capital so third of the operations beginning nationwide lockdown is scheduled “If autopsy surgeon feels that he will not be able to far. With over 500 new cases each May 25, the ministry of home affairs to end on May 31, but with several conclude cause of death or any other related issue day, Delhi has been recording the (MHA) again nudged states to restrictions having been relaxed to without dissection, then he can proceed with highest single-day spike for the last strictly follow lockdown guidelines, boost economic activities. minimal invasive/limited internal dissection. Centre cites lockdown violations, asks states to ensure strict implementation

NEW DELHI (TIP): The Centre on hygiene and sanitation etc., are important Thursday asked states to ensure strict for containing the spread of COVID-19. “It implementation of lockdown and night is the duty of all district and local curfew protocols, saying it has noticed authorities to enforce the national violation of the restrictions at several directives,” he said. places. “I would request all the chief secretaries In a communication to all states and of states and administrators of union union territories, Home Secretary Ajay territories to remain vigilant in the fight Bhalla asked them to strictly ensure against COVID-19 and ensure that all prohibition of all non-essential activities measures that have either been mandated between 7pm and 7am, saying the night by MHA or laid down by the States and curfew imposed to contain the UTs, are scrupulously adhered to at all coronavirus spread is an “important levels,” Bhalla said. After the lockdown element of the Home Ministry was extended till May 31, the Home guidelines”. Ministry issued fresh guidelines relaxing He said the night curfew has been some curbs that were imposed during the imposed to ensure that people observe first three phases, except in the social distance. containment zones. “Accordingly, local authorities should Bhalla said a proper delineation of be asked to issue orders in the entirety of containment zones and effective their jurisdiction, under proper implementation of containment measures provisions of law, for imposition of night noticed reports of violation of its take necessary steps to ensure the same,” is key to preventing the further spread of curfew. Strict compliance of these orders guidelines at several places. he said. COVID- 19. In this respect, the guidelines should be ensured by the local “I would like to emphasise that the MHA These stipulations, such as wearing face issued by the Ministry of Health & Family authorities,” he said. guidelines should be strictly implemented, covers, ensuring social distancing at work, Welfare need to be followed and Bhalla said the Home Ministry has and all authorities in states and UTs should transport and in public places, maintaining containment zones properly demarcated. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 INDIA 15

HC EXTENDS 1984 ANTI-SIKH What passengers need to know RIOTS CONVICT’S PAROLE BY before boarding domestic flight ANOTHER 3 MONTHS NEW DELHI (TIP): The Delhi High Court on Thursday extended by three months the parole ELABORATE GUIDELINES, FROM ONE CHECK-IN BAG TO INSTALLING AAROGYA SETU APP granted to Captain Bhagmal, convicted and sentenced to life term in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, saying he NEW DELHI (TIP): A day after was over 90 years of age. announcing the resumption of Bhagmal’s parole, last extended on March 20, was domestic commercial passenger expiring on Thursday. flights from May 25, the Civil Justice Suresh Kumar Kait said, “Keeping in view Aviation Ministry on Thursday, the fact that age of petitioner (Bhagmal) is more than May 21, issued detailed guidelines 90 years, I hereby extend the parole of the petitioner for airlines, airports, passengers for a further period of three months on the same and other stakeholders on issues terms and conditions as imposed vide order dated ranging from control on air fares to March 20, 2020.” restrictions on number of bags. The high court said Bhagmal shall surrender after Here are the points passengers expiry of the three month parole. should keep in mind: He was convicted and awarded life term for the „ Before entering the terminal, murder of five members of a family in Raj Nagar area passenger to ensure that he or of Delhi Cantonment on November 1, 1984, after the she is wearing a mask assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. „ Passenger to report at the Delhi government standing counsel Rahul Mehra airport 2 hours before flights opposed the plea for extension saying that the convict „ Passenger to travel in an was on parole since September 19 last year and it was authorized taxi/personal already extended once on March 20, 2020 for two vehicle following the norms Some domestic flights will start on Monday, May 25. months. specified by the Home Ministry maintain social distancing and of toilets and avoid any non- India becomes world’s „ During transit to airport, the sanitation protocols essential movement in the passenger should take all „ Chairs marked 'Not For Use' aisles second-largest manufacturer of precautions to prevent should not be occupied „ No queuing at the toilets and infection „ Passenger to dispose all the only one companion for PPE body coveralls: Govt „ Passenger to certify the status bio-hazardous material like children and the elderly would of history of his or her health used masks, gloves, tissues etc. be allowed through the Aarogya Setu App in the yellow-colored „ No meal service in the aircraft. or a self-declaration form disposable bins/bags placed at Water bottle to be made „ Ensure web check-in and strategic locations at the available in the galley area or obtain a boarding pass airport on the seats. Eatables not to be „ Baggage limitations - Only one „ Passengers to collect the safety consumed during the flight check-in bag and one cabin bag kit (three-layered surgical „ No newspaper or magazine allowed mask and sanitizer) from the will be available, no onboard „ Vulnerable persons such as airlines near the boarding gate sale of any item very elderly, pregnant women, „ Passengers to wear mask and „ If the passenger feels passengers with ailments are sanitize his/her hands before uncomfortable, fatigued or has advised to avoid air travel proceeding to the boarding respiratory distress, it should „ Passenger to download the gate for scanning of the be brought to the immediate baggage tag and baggage boarding pass notice of the crew identification number, print it „ Passengers to be attentive „ The disembarkation from the and affix it on the bag at a towards boarding airlines would be sequential prominent place announcements and reach the „ Social distance and sanitation „ In case the passenger is not boarding queue by following should be maintained at the NEW DELHI (TIP): India has become the world’s able to print the baggage tag, social distancing arrival gate aerobridge, second-largest manufacturer of personal protective then he or she should mention „ Display of identity cards by coaches, jet ladders ramps etc. equipment (PPE) body coveralls within a short time the PNR number and his or her passengers is a must & check-in „ To disembark passengers to span of two months, the government said on name on a thick piece of paper of the boarding pass would be strictly follow the instructions Thursday. and affix it / tag it with a done by the passenger by self- of the crew China is the world’s leading producer of PPE body strong string scanning of e-boarding pass „ Trolleys in the arrival area to coveralls, crucial to safeguard against the COVID-19 „ Passenger to proceed to „ During the flight, passengers be used sparingly pandemic. security hold area after to strictly follow hygiene and „ Passenger to wait at the In a statement, the Ministry of Textiles said it had security screening sanitation. Face-to-face baggage hold area till the been taking several steps to ensure that both quality „ While waiting in the security interaction to be minimized baggage arrives in batches. - and quantity of PPE coveralls was going up to the hold area, passenger to „ Passenger to minimize the use (Agencies) desired levels within a very short span of time of two months, “thereby catapulting India into the world’s second-largest manufacturer of body coveralls, next only to China”. India junks China’s charge of sparking tension The Ministry has taken steps to ensure that only certified players across the entire supply chain were BEIJING/NEW DELHI (TIP): in Galwan Valley of Ladakh, situation, he said. allowed to supply body coveralls to governments, an India on Thursday strongly where both sides have deployed China’s foreign ministry side official statement said. rebutted China’s contention that additional troops. had first accused Indian troops of Besides, Textiles Committee, Mumbai, too, will now tensions in the Ladakh and Sikkim New Delhi’s first official trespassing across the LAC in a test and certify PPE body coveralls required for sectors were triggered by Indian reaction to the tensions came a statement to Hindustan Times on healthcare workers and other COVID-19 warriors. troops crossing the Line of Actual day after India was strongly Tuesday, saying Beijing had to Ajit Chavan, secretary, Textiles Committee and Control (LAC), even as it accused supported by the US, with top take “necessary Additional Textile Commissioner, Ministry of Chinese forces of hindering American diplomat Alice Wells countermeasures” after the Indian Textiles, explained how the committee rose up to the patrols on the Indian side. saying such disputes are a side allegedly obstructed normal occasion to surmount the challenge of non- The Indian side said it is “reminder of the threat posed by patrols by Chinese troops. availability of reputed domestic manufacturers of committed to peace and China”. Asked about China’s position on PPE testing equipment. tranquillity along the border, but In Beijing, foreign ministry the standoff in Ladakh, external “We faced the humongous challenges of non- will take all steps to safeguard the spokesperson Zhao Lijian affairs ministry spokesperson availability of domestic manufacturers of repute and country’s sovereignty and reiterated that Indian troops had Srivastava told an online news incessant delay/long gestation period to import security. The remarks by external trespassed across the LAC and briefing: “Any suggestion that machine from China as also challenges of ever- affairs ministry spokesperson dismissed Wells’ remarks as “just Indian troops had undertaken increasing prices by the opportunist companies in Anurag Srivastava came against nonsense”. India should work with activity across the LAC in the China due to demand for such equipment the world the backdrop of continuing China and “refrain from unilateral western [Ladakh] sector or the over. We, therefore, decided to do it indigenously,” he tensions along the LAC, especially actions” that complicate the Sikkim sector is not accurate.” said. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 16 CORONAVIRUS CRISIS FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 MIGRANT WORKERS AMID LOCKDOWN MYRIAD MISERY, DESPERATE EXODUS

ver since the announcement of the first national information System for Developing countries. His lockdown on 24th March, shutdown of transport estimates, which are based on the 2011 Census, NSSO Eand sealing of states/districts has created a surveys and economic survey, show that there are a humanitarian crisis in many states for panic stricken total of about 65 million inter-state migrants, and 33 per migrant workers, students, those between travels and cent of these migrants are workers. By conservative transit. There has been some relaxation in the rules estimates, 30 per cent of them are casual workers and since lockdown 3.0 with relaxations rules and this crisis another 30 per cent work on regular basis but in the and ways and means to tackle it has taken the center informal sector. stage, with many pertinent viewpoints, evidences, If you add street vendors, another vulnerable experiences and learnings. community which is not captured by the worker data, Amid a lack of responsive mobility option, despair, that would mean that there are 12 to 18 million people treatment alike commodity and inferior citizens and who are residing in states other than that of their serious concerns of being infected and the craving to be origin and have been placed at a risk of losing their at the comforts of their homes, several million migrant income. A study by the Centre for the Study of workers and families, begun to tread on foot. With no Developing Societies (CSDS) and Azim Premji government support of travel, their journey has often University in 2019 estimates that 29% of the population been several hundred miles following highways and in India’s big cities is of daily wagers. This is the railway tracks, often hungry and relentlessly tired. number of people which would be logically wanting to This has turned into the great human tragedy. move back to their states. 5,000; of 25%, between 5,000 and 10,000; of 13%, between Migrant workers and families are now desperately Rs 10,000 and 20,000; and of 8%, more than Rs 20,000. A leaving from their destination to their native places. What they earn, experience CSDS survey during the recent Delhi Assembly They are hurt by the fact that the destination places As per the ‘Politics and Society Between Elections elections also found that 20% of respondents reported particularly the cities are treating them badly and most Survey’ from 2017-19 conducted by the CSDS, the their monthly household income to be less than Rs of them have lost the trust on the government, and a monthly household income of 22% daily and weekly 10,000. Among migrants from Bihar and UP, this was hope to make ends meet in their native places. Despite wagers is up to Rs 2,000; of 32%, between Rs 2,000 and even higher at 33% and 27%, respectively. repeated assurances from the central and state governments, millions of migrants are desperate to return from cities with double threats of life and livelihood by covid-19. However, the early sign of unexpected surge in unemployment rate (Bihar: 47%; Jharkhand: 47%; UP: 22%), at the native places of migrants indicate a threatening picture ahead. Number of migrants The total number of internal migrants in India, as per the 2011 census, is 45.36 crore or 37% of the country's population. This includes inter-state migrants as well as migrants within each state, while the recent exodus is largely due to the movement of inter-state migrants. The annual net flows amount to about 1 per cent of the working age population. As per Census 2011, the size of the workforce was 48.2 crore people. This figure is estimated to have exceeded 50 crore in 2016 — the Economic Survey pegged the size of the migrant workforce at roughly 20 per cent or over 10 crore in 2016. State to state, 2020 While there is no official data for the inter-state migrants in the country, estimates for 2020 have been made by Professor Amitabh Kundu of Research and THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 CORONAVIRUS CRISIS 17 MIGRANT WORKERS AMID LOCKDOWN

fter facing difficulties to meet basic ends without work, these Amigrants, in the absence of any means of transport, found no choice OVER 100 KILLED ON THEIR but to walk back home. Unfortunately, not all of them reached their respective destinations. Several of the migrants who either walked or travelled in other private WAY BACK HOME vehicles met with accidents throughout the lockdown period. An analysis of news reports in An analysis of news reports in national media shows that more than 100 migrant workers were killed in national media shows that more than accidents since March 24, while hundreds of others sustained injured. Moreover, many of the injured in 100 migrant workers were killed in such accidents were reported to have suffered critical injuries and the death toll could be higher. accidents since March 24, while hundreds of others sustained injured. Moreover, many of the injured in such accidents were reported to have Pandemic affected suffered critical injuries and the death toll could be higher. 93 million urban In fact, a similar analysis by SaveLife Foundation, an independent, workers: Govt report non-profit NGO advocating road safety and emergency medical care across NEW DELHI (TIP): As many as 93 India, put the death toll in road million urban informal workers, accidents among migrant workers at across five sectors -- manufacturing, 159 between March 24 and May 18. The construction, trade, tourism and analysis estimated that 630 migrants hospitality -- have been affected by the were injured in these road mishaps. ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the It is to be noted that these figures are lockdown imposed to slow its spread, based on accidents and incidents that according to an informal Group of were reported in the media and, Ministers headed by labour minister therefore, the numbers are not Thawarchand Gehlot. exhaustive. The actual death toll could Among the suggestions, which were be higher. submitted in a report to the Prime Among one of the major and recent Minister’s Office last week are: a incidents, at least 24 migrant database of the workers; a job card for labourers were killed, while 37 others every migrant worker returning to were left injured when a truck in TRAIN OF FORTUNE: 21 BABIES BORN their village and a complete tweaking which they were travelling in collided of the rural employment guarantee with another vehicle in Uttar ONBOARD SHRAMIK SPECIALS scheme that allows work in a private Pradesh’s Auraiya on May 16. factory or construction site, with the Likewise, at least eight died and 55 NEW DELHI (TIP): Mamta Yadav “Whenever a passenger needs help, employer paying wages above the sustained injuries when a truck they boarded a Shramik Special train on May our onboard staff alerts the station MNREGA wage component which will were traveling in collided with a bus in 8 at Gujarat’s Jamnagar. She was where medical aid is available next and continue to be paid by the Madhya Pradesh’s Guna on May 14. travelling single. But, by the time her the doctors who live in railway colonies government; and an app named The deceased were residents of Unnao destination station in Bihar arrived she around the station are always there to Kaushal (literally, skill) that allows and Raebareli districts of Uttar had a companion in her arms. deal with any emergency,” he said. workers to register for skill Pradesh, according to police, who also Since Shramik Special trains started “We are happy that we managed to development courses and also reach said that the truck carrying the operating, they have witnessed births of provide help in time every time and in out to potential employers. migrant labourers was going to Unnao. 21 babies onboard, officials say. each case the baby and the mother have In another incident, 16 migrant Mamta had decided to board the train been healthy,” Clashes erupt as migrants workers were crushed to death by a in very difficult times: everybody was Mamta and her little one were allowed refused entry by villagers freight train in Maharashtra’s battling a coronavirus outbreak, her to continue their journey, officials said. Aurangabad district on May 8. The husband had lost his job as a factory On May 13, the 20-something Pinky LUCKNOW (TIP): With villagers not workers were walking from Jalna to worker in Jamnagar due to the Yadav gave birth to a baby boy on board letting migrants enter their homes Bhusawal to catch the ‘special’ train to lockdown, she was in advance stage of the Ahmedbad-Faizabad Shramik even after completion of their return to their native place in Madhya pregnancy and the home was hundreds Special train with the help of RPF quarantine period, clashes are being Pradesh. They were sleeping on the of kilometres away. personnel. She got the medical attention reported from several districts. tracks when the train ran over them. But she made the tough choice, and on at the Kanpur station. In some cases, clashes have been A majority of migrant deaths in May 8 decided to take the Jamnagar- But she had to be shifted to a district reported over property issues. Around accidents to place during the third Muzaffarpur Shramik Special train to be hospital for treatment. 24 cases of clashes have been phase of the lockdown (May 4 - May 17) with her mother at her village in The 23-year old Ishwari Devi gave reported in Prayagraj alone in the past despite the fact that the government Chhapra district of Bihar for the birth of birth to a baby boy onboard the five days. announced the ’Shramik Special’ the baby. Habibganj-Bilaspur migrant special Fifteen such incidents were reported trains to ferry stranded migrant Officials say the train left the train on May 17 with the help of onboard in Pratapgarh district, where one workers to their native places. The Jamnagar stations at 8 pm. Mamta, 35, staff and other women passengers. person died and left more than 12 first such train ferried passengers on began to experience the labour pain The Railways not only provided her injured in separate cases. May 1. around the midnight. the necessary medicines but also Additional SP (Pratapgarh) Surendra The government has claimed that Though the Railways had said that arranged for her admission to the Dwivedi said there were over 12 more than a million migrants have Shramik Special would be non-stop, this Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical incidents, where migrants had either been ferried by over 1,000 ‘shramik train was stopped at the Agra Fort Sciences when she needed further care. clashed with their family members or specials’ as on May 15. However, it may station so that she could get the medical “We try to provide as much help as we co-villagers over different issues. not be enough since thousands of attention she needed. can,” said Bajpai. “At times these people He said a majority of the migrants labourers continue to walk as many Officials said doctors were alerted by are so keen to go home. We also advise were drivers. “The verbal disputes took could not managed to get a ticket for the on board staff as the train them the dos and don’ts, give them a violent turn and left family members these ’special’ trains, while others approached Agra Fort station around medicines and allow them to continue injured. The migrants are also simply could not afford it. 4.30 am. their journeys. involved in scuffles with people of the While the economic disruption Mamta’s compartment was turned “We also provide them ambulance to same village after they are called caused by the pandemic and the into a labour room of sorts with other ferry them to the nearest district ‘corona carriers’,” he said. lockdown remained a cause of passengers moving out. A team of hospital. However, one thing must be In another incident reported from concern, the failure to provide doctors along with railway staff told. The mother nature takes care of Teunga village in Pratapgarh district, authoritative solutions for the supervised Mamta’s condition as she most of it. We are just glad our staffers a 32-year old migrant was allegedly unprecedented migrant crisis, even delivered a healthy baby girl, official were there to help.” So far, the railways killed by a group of nine villagers. after more than 50 days of the said. has run around 2,050 Shramik Special Though the police claimed to have lockdown, has raised questions over “We have a well-oiled system to deal trains and these births, many officials solved the case with the arrest of five the planning of the country’s Covid-19 with medical emergencies,” said railway said, provided a ray of hope to all in persons, the incident sparked off response. spokesperson RD Bajpai. these difficult times. tension in the village. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 18 BOLLYWOOD FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 DEEPIKA REVEALS SHE HAD POSTER OF LEONARDO DICAPRIO ON BEDROOM WALL ctor Deepika Padukone has revealed that her sister Anisha Aand she used to have several posters of Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio in their room, and they'd kiss him goodnight routinely. Deepika told Vogue India, "My sister SHRADDHA KAPOOR LIKELY Anisha and I shared a room. We used to sit on that sofa... and play 'house' for TO STAR IN 'MALANG' SEQUEL hours. We also had several posters of ohit Suri, earlier while talking to DNA Online, Leonardo DiCaprio on the wall and had dropped major hints about a female made it a point to kiss him goodnight Mactor's voice featuring in the climax of every night before going to sleep." Malang. Now, as the sequel of the thriller film is Deepika and Anisha often express finally confirmed, the voice heard in the movie is of their love for each other on social media. none other than Shraddha Kapoor. Yes, the actor, as A few days ago, Deepika shared a picture per reports in Pinkvilla is likely to play the female with Anisha on Instagram and lead in the film which originally starred Anil Kapoor, captioned it, "I miss you peanut!!! Cannot Kunal Kemmu, Aditya Roy Kapur and Disha Patani in wait to jump on you and squish you!!!" the lead role. Deepika in an old interview had called Talking about the same, a source told the Anisha her 'biggest critic'. She had told entertainment portal, "Mohit had also spoken to IANS, "She is very honest about her Shraddha for Malang but her dates back then couldn't opinion. She is my most blunt critic and be managed. Then, he went on for a completely fresh she speaks her heart. Even if she is pairing with Disha and Aditya. Given their equation, criticising me, I don't mind it because when Mohit asked her to just step in for the little she is very honest and she wants me to voiceover, in the end, she immediately agreed. Of do well..." Deepika was last seen in the course, she was aware that this could spiral into part drama Chhapaak, in which she played two, which she would be leading. That discussion has an acid attack survivor. The actor has already happened between Shraddha and Mohit. They been signed for Karan Johar's untitled will be reuniting once again after Half Girlfriend." film to be directed by Shakun Batra. She Earlier while talking about the sequel and film's will be joined by Gully Boy actor great run on Netflix, producer Ankur Garg said in a Siddhant Chaturvedi and Ananya statement, "We are thankful to the audience who has Panday in the film. Deepika will also shown such a phenomenal response to our film been seen as cricketer Kapil Dev's wife Malang after the theatres, now on OTT. While people Romi Dev alongside Ranveer Singh in are enjoying Malang on Netflix, yes, we are coming up Kabir Khan's 83. with Malang 2. NAWAZUDDIN’S WIFE TAAPSEE PANNU POSES FOR ACCUSES ACTOR’S MAGAZINE COVER IN HER WASHROOM FAMILY OF TORTURE

ays after Janhvi Kapoor did a at- home photoshoot for a magazine, DTaapsee Pannu has also taken up work from home and posed for a magazine cover at her Mumbai residence. The actor shared a glimpse of the Man's World cover on her Instagram account which shows her sitting on a slab in her washroom area. Sharing the cover shot by her roommate Devki, the Thappad actor awazuddin Siddiqui's wife Aalia Siddiqui wrote, "When you are under lockdown recently sent the actor a legal notice to with your stylist, photographer , N"end the marriage". Now, Aalia has concept designer, photo editor, art revealed why she is seeking a divorce. director "all in one " (who also happens In a conversation with Bollywood Life, Aalia to be an amazing pizza chef) this is what said, "Problems (in the marriage) had begun comes out of it... Take a bow @devs213." long before, but I wasn't bringing them forward. She also gave credit to herself for the I was trying to solve these issues, waiting for "hair, makeup and balancing". them to get better. I finally had to take this The actor can be seen applying a decision." lipstick while sitting on her washroom Taapsee occasionally gives a sneak first moved to Mumbai n by the time I Aalia Siddiqui has accused Nawazuddin slab as the cover description says peek into her house on Instagram. In an finished shooting the film n came back I Siddiqui's family of physical and mental torture. "writing her own script". Her Pink co- earlier post, the actor had talked about entered the new apartment. Like a new She told the publication, "Nawaz had never star Angad Bedi complimented in the getting a logo instead of a name plate chapter began just like that. It was a raised his hands on me, but the shouting and comments section saying, "Nice very for her first property in the city. very seamless transition for me but it arguments had become unbearable. But his pretty woman font @taapsee." Sharing a picture of the entrance, she went through its share of teething family has mentally and physically tortured me Taapsee lives with sister Shagun wrote, "This is the day I had my issues which were all sorted by my a lot. His brother had even hit me." Pannu and Devki at her Mumbai house apartment in Mumbai ready, with all sister n mom before I entered home. "I've been bearing a lot for too many years. His which she purchased two years ago. interior work done. It was strange that Made me realise no matter how much first wife had also left him for this reason. It's a Shagun was quick to take credit for when I left for the shoot of effort you put in, the house stays a pattern. There are already seven cases registered setting up the set and wrote, "I had done Manmarziyaan I left from the old house until it's lived in with your family by the wives of their house against them, and the bathroom cleaning." apartment I had taken on rent when I who then make it 'Home'." four divorces have taken place," she added. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 HOLLYWOOD 19 ELIZABETH HURLEY WEARS 21-YEAR-OLD AWARDS SHOW DRESS IN QUARANTINE JOAQUIN PHOENIX, lizabeth Hurley is taking a trip ROONEY MARA down memory lane and donning Ea dress that's old enough to drink. EXPECTING THEIR In posing for a photo for Harper's Bazaar's #TurnUpNotIn project, FIRST CHILD which asks celebrities to show how merican actor Joaquin Phoenix they stylishly shelter in place, the 54- and Rooney Mara are reportedly year-old actress dusted off an oldie, Aexpecting their first child together. but a goodie. The couple at present is said to be "I've got a zillion great memories quarantining together at their home in and I can remember what I was Los Angeles. wearing in all of them. The dress I Page Six reports that Mara was recently unearthed for this shot is Atelier been spotted wearing baggy clothes to @versace and I wore it twenty one cover her bump and is expected to be in years ago to the CFDA Fashion the sixth month of her pregnancy. Awards," she told Harper's Bazaar of However, there has been no official the lavender dress. "I was with my confirmation about the same. then boyfriend Hugh Grant and had a It was on the sets of the science-fiction blast. I put it away in acid free tissue romance "Her" where the two met for the paper straightaway and it's still first time, and since then their love life perfect!" started blossoming. Phoenix told a In the new snap, Liz feigns watching magazine that he initially believed TV while cuddled up on an oversized Rooney disliked him while making the fur blanket. movie only to later discover that she liked Fans marveled at the image, noting him but was just shy. how little she's aged between now and The couple had been first linked at the 1999, when she first wore the dress. beginning of 2017 and a few months later, This isn't the first time the "Royals" they confirmed their relationship. In May star has done a deep dive into her 2019, it had been reported that the actors closet. Last year, Elizabeth thought got engaged after Mara was spotted with a back to her past looks and modeled an ring on her finger, but there was no updated version of a dress she wore in confirmation from their end. She has also 1994 at the premiere of "Four accompanied Phoenix to the Toronto Weddings and a Funeral," again International Film Festival, as well as the alongside her former beau. LA Premier of the film. NICOLE KIDMAN SUFFERING JEREMY RENNER ACCUSES EX FROM BROKEN ANKLE SONNI PACHECO OF TAKING MONEY icole Kidman has broken her ankle FROM THEIR DAUGHTER’S TRUST Nduring the eremy Renner recently accused his coronavirus lockdown, her ex-wife, Sonni Pacheco, of husband Keith Urban has Jmisusing money from their revealed. daughter Ava’s trust fund. The 49-year- The actress sparked old Avengers actor filed court concern when pictures documents claiming that Pacheco has emerged of her wearing a taken nearly USD 50,000 from their 7- walking cast at the country year-old daughter’s trust fund account singer's drive-in concert on in the last two years, People reported. Friday. However, his 29-year-old ex has denied And during an interview his claims. She told Page Six that she is with Entertainment sick of being bullied by Jeremy. She Tonight on Saturday, Keith asserted that there is no truth to revealed the reason for Renner’s claims. Nicole's new accessory. “'I am sick of being continually "She broke her ankle, but bullied, having my name slandered, and she's a trooper," he said. the truth muted,” she wrote in an email. "There she was last night However, according to court documents among all of the folks, filed by the Marvel actor Renner, who is hobbling around on her known for playing the role of Clint Ava’s account to her personal account boot with her mask on." Barton aka Hawkeye, Pacheco admitted violated the Court’s orders. Reacting to The 52-year-old gave no further details of how his wife had injured herself. to using the funds in an email. the allegations, Pacheco mentioned that Nicole shared a snap from Keith's Nashville concert on Instagram on Friday, but According to the documents, Renner even though she had transferred the cropped it so as to not show her injured leg. has stated that the mother of one money to her account, she was using it for "Keith just had to play! Isolating with live music at last night's first admitted to transferring funds in a 2019 her daughter only, “The money transfers #UrbanUnderground drive-in gig for the incredible #frontline workers," she email to his business manager. She to my bank were to keep my captioned the image of the stage and screen at the Stardust Drive-In movie theatre. reportedly admitted that she afloat/provide [the minor] Christmas Keith invited around 200 people from the nearby Vanderbilt University Health in transferred around USD 50,000 from her presents/birthday gift bags and essentials Tennessee to join him at the venue, and later shared a video from the event on his daughter’s account to her personal for her bday party – after all my savings Instagram page, writing: "A huge THANK YOU to all @vanderbilthealth frontline account. were spent on lawyers/child custody workers who attended tonight's special show at the drive-in!" Reportedly, transferring funds from evaluator,' Daily Mail reported. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 20 FEATURE FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 HARI SINGH NALWA: A LIONHEART SIKH WARRIOR ardar Hari Singh is regarded as Nalwa had to fight a long bloody battle one of the greatest of Sikh A tribute to Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa, the Sikh Commander-in- to annex Multan and make it a part of Sgenerals. During 1881, European chief of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Army who the historians credit Punjab to resolve the problem forever. newspapers wrote articles comparing with dozens of heroic and historic victories, including a glorious him to the great European Generals victory over Afghanistan. He is more famous for his role in the Freedom for Kashmiris such as Napoleon, Field-Marshal von conquests of Kasur, Sialkot, Attock, Multan, Kashmir, Peshawar In 1819, the Kashmiris sent a Hindenburg, the Duke of Wellington, deputation to Lahore, asking Maharaja as well as Asian Generals such as and Jamrud.The commander has been named as number one Ranjeet Singh to free them from four Haluka Khan and Genghis Khan. The general in a list of top ten generals of the world by an Australian centuries of foreign rule. Three British concluded that Sardar Hari magazine. famous Sikh Generals, including Hari Singh Nalwa was the greatest of them Singh Nalwa, were sent to Kashmir all. With a limited force of men and Born in 1791, Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa died on April 30, 1837. again. After defeating the ruler there, materials, he freed not only Kashmir Sardar Nalwa was made the and Multan, but also Peshawar state This article is a tribute to world's best military commander on Administrator of Kashmir. He and made them part of the empire of his death anniversary, April 30. streamlined the whole administration Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. Peshawar and ensured justice for everyone, had been under Afghan control for which made him very popular with the more than eight centuries after Kashmiri people. However, his stay Afghans murdered Raja Jaipal in a there was short lived as he was battle fought in 998 A.D. recalled in 1821 to reassert Sikh Sardar Nalwa was a courageous, control over the western regions. devoted and farsighted general. He Along with Nalwa, the Maharaja impressed the Governor General of himself led the Sikh forces. Hazara India with his statesmanship when he was brought under the Lahore met him at Simla in 1831 as an administration. Hari Singh Nalwa was emissary of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. appointed Governor of that area as the When the question of a successor to previous Governor died fighting Maharaja Ranjeet Singh was discussed against the rebels. among the top Sikhs, Nalwa opposed the opinion of the majority. He Retaking Peshawar suggested that not Kharak Singh, but General Nalwa could never be free the Panj Pyaras should succeed from fighting the Pathans and Mughals Ranjeet Singh. Had his suggestion of Afghanistan. Yar Mohd Khan, who been listened to, the history of India had been appointed Governor of would have been different today. Peshawar, was the brother of the king of Afghanistan. He became disloyal to Early life the Sikh raj and joined his brother, Hari Singh, born in 1791, was the son which necessitated sending another of Sardar Gurdial Singh of Sikh expedition to Peshawar. Gujranwala, now in Pakistan. His The Sikh army built a pontoon father died when he was only seven bridge over the river Attock and years old but his mother provided him challenged the Pathans. At the height a good religious education and trained of the battle, a contingent of Pathans him in martial arts. Hari Singh took cut the bridge. When Maharaja Ranjeet Amrit at the age of ten. Observing his Singh and Akali Phoola Singh reached mastery in the use of arms, the the scene, they found the bridge Maharaja placed him in his army. washed away. They could hear the When on a hunting mission with the fighting on the other side of the river. Maharaja, Hari Singh was attacked by They had no other choice but to take a tiger. He smartly defended himself the great risk of crossing the flooded and killed the tiger; this act gave him river on horseback. The battle, the title, Nalwa (tiger). however, had been won by Nalwa by the Sardar Hari Singh’s first major time the Maharaja reached there. battle was fought against the Nawab of The major battle for retaking Kasoor (now in Pakistan) who was Peshawar still lay ahead. Thousands of always a troublemaker for the Sikhs in soldiers and Mujahideens (religious Amritsar during the 18th century. zealots) had gathered there to stop the Later he participated in the battle Sikhs from reaching Peshawar. A against Multan to free the people from bloody battle was fought, where both the Nawab of the region. Nalwa sides were determined to win at any demonstrated his superb fighting cost. The Mughals and Pathans found skills during these battles. the Sikh sword too strong and beat a hasty retreat to Kabul. The Sikhs again Releasing Shah Shuja took over Peshawar, although they paid Hari Singh’s next expedition was to a very high price for it. They lost their the state of Kashmir. He joined the Maharaja once again free her husband. Annexation of Multan general Akali Phoola Singh who was other two famous commanders, Akali In return, she offered him the greatest shot by a Pathan hiding behind a rock Phoola Singh and Sardar Sham Singh and most famous of all diamonds, the The Nawab of Multan, who was when he was forcing his opponents to Attariwala, in obtaining the release of Kohinoor. governing that state on behalf of the retreat. the imprisoned Shah Shuja, the king of The success of the expedition to Maharaja, refused to observe the In another uprising of a local Nawab Afghanistan. Shuja was ousted by his bring Shah Shuja safely from Kashmir agreements and promises made by in 1824, Sardar Hari Singh was own brother and he had no alternative to Lahore so enraged the ruler of him. Nalwa was deputed to bring him severely injured. One of the boulders, but to move to the Punjab and seek the Afghanistan, that he sent his army to under control. The General fought exploded by the retreating enemy, hit protection of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. take over the fort of Attock in 1813, and bravely and took over the strong fort of him and he rolled down the hill. Later, when Shuja attempted to take oust the Sikhs. Hari Singh Nalwa, Multan. Ranjeet Singh granted him the However, an urgent and timely search over Kabul, he was defeated, however, led his army to victory estate of Gujranwala as a reward for saved his life. imprisoned, and detained in Kashmir. against great odds and retained Sikh his accomplishment. In 1818, the His begum (wife) requested that the control over the area. Nawab again rebelled against Lahore. Continued on page 21 THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 HAPPY REPUBLIC DAY 21

Continued from page 20

The king of Kabul made yet another attempt to take over Peshawar. A Syad, after returning from Mecca, went to Kabul. He told the king that God had advised him to take over Peshawar. Another attack on Peshawar was therefore organized by them. The Sikhs proved to be too powerful to be ousted and Syad was defeated and killed in May of 1831. The remaining army returned to Kabul leaving the Khalsa to rule Peshawar. Sardar Nalwa was given an award of 50,000 rupees for winning the battle. Under an agreement with Maharaja Ranjeet Singh, a local Burkzace was appointed Governor. In 1834, the Maharaja decided to annex Peshawar and make it a part of Punjab, as every local Governor appointed there had rejoined Kabul once the Sikh army left. Nalwa was appointed as the Governor of Peshawar. The annexation of Peshawar enraged Dost Mohd, the King of Kabul. He sent a very large, well equipped army to take Peshawar back from the Sikhs. General Hari Singh was the commander-in-chief of the defending Sikh army. Though fewer in numbers, the Sikhs organized a defense and counterattack so brilliantly that the larger Kabul army was disarrayed and information was sent to Kabul by the defeated. Dost Mohd was able to save Dogras and the Afghans were told to his life by running away at night. attack Peshawar. Such a message was The Khalsa Raj was thus established very encouraging to the Afghans and over all the areas of the present the king of Kabul immediately sent his Pakistan, Kashmir, and Punjab up to army to drive the Sikhs out of the West of Sutlej. Peshawar. After crossing the Khyber Pass, they Nalwa as the Governor attacked Jamrud. It was here that Bibi of Peshawar Harsharan Kaur (Sharnagat Kaur) played a heroic role by walking from Nalwa, as the Governor of Peshawar, Jamrud to Peshawar and reporting the relieved the Hindus of the tax which attack on Jamrud. Nalwa, though sick, they had been paying since the 17th repulsed the attack, losing his own life century. He managed the whole state due to the treachery of the Dogras. It effectively to bring peace, and stopped was Nalwa’s presence which resulted the looting of the people by Pathans in the Sikh victory; otherwise, the and Afghans. To maintain order in the small Sikh army numbering only a few state, he established police stations all thousand, was no match for the 30,000 over the region and built forts at Afghan army supported by civilian strategic places. The fort of Jamrud fanatics. was the most famous and it blocked the During this time, Hari Singh Nalwa Khyber Pass, not permitting any army sent to Maharaja Ranjeet Singh three to come from the Kabul side. The king letters, all of which were kept by the of Kabul, finding himself controlled by Dogras. They did not let the Maharaja the chain of forts built by Nalwa, was know of them. Recent research has always devising plans to break the shown that the Afghans and Dogras Sikh administration. connived to murder the General. This is evidenced by the fact that the person The last battle who shot Nalwa from very close range, The Dogras in the cabinet of was wearing a Sikh soldier’s uniform. Maharaja Ranjeet Singh were working By the time help arrived from secretly with the British and the King Lahore, the battle had been won by the of Kabul to bring down the Khalsa Sikhs. Peshawar was thus retained in Sarkar. These traitors, Gulab Singh the Khalsa raj, the credit for this going and Dhyan Singh, finally succeeded. to Bibi Harsharan Kaur and General They obtained the rule of Kashmir and Nalwa’s bravery. handed over the Punjab to the British General Hari Singh Nalwa was an in 1849. Kabul would have never dared eloquent statesman and an able to attack Peshawar during the lifetime administrator. He was instrumental in of Hari Singh Nalwa. The mention of bringing Kashmir under Sikh control the name of the general would scare and brought peace and prosperity to the Pathans. If they wanted to silence the people as the Governor of the state. their crying children, they would say, Peshawar, a region of Punjab which “Be silent. Hari is coming.” had been partitioned from it for eight The Dogras knew every secret of the centuries, was again made a part of it army and its deployment. Being in due to the bravery of Nalwa. He has charge of the government, they were since been known as the “Hero of in a position to misinform the Peshawar” and was rated as the Maharaja. greatest general of his time. The forts In 1837, the Peshawar army was back he built there to stop invaders from at Lahore for the wedding of Kanwar looting Punjab and Delhi, were Naunihal Singh, the son of the effective long after his death. A large Maharaja. General Nalwa was tired part of his successes can be attributed and exhausted, lying sick in bed. No to his being a kind and devoted Sikh, senior person was in Peshawar to committed to his people and possessing guide the Sikh soldiers. All of this a keen sense of duty and responsibility. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 22 WORLD FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 CHINA SET TO IMPOSE NEW HONG KONG SECURITY LAW HONG KONG / BEIJING / WASHINGTON (TIP): China is set to impose new national security legislation on Hong Kong after last year's pro- democracy unrest, a Chinese official said on Thursday, drawing a warning from President Donald Trump that Washington would react "very strongly" against the attempt to gain more control over the former British colony. New Zealand party The U.S. State Department also warned China, saying a high-degree of replaces leader to face autonomy and respect for human rights Ardern in election were key to preserving the territory's special status in U.S. law, which has WELLINGTON (TIP): New helped it maintain its position as a world Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda financial centre. Ardern has proved so popular during China's action could spark fresh the coronavirus pandemic that it has protests in Hong Kong, which enjoys prompted a change of leadership in many freedoms not allowed on the the conservative opposition party just mainland, after often violent four months from a general election. demonstrations of 2019 plunged the city Todd Muller on Friday deposed into its deepest turmoil since it returned Republican U.S. senators said they would with strong condemnation. Simon Bridges as leader of the to Beijing's rule in 1997. introduce legislation to strengthen the Ending Hong Kong's special status National Party following two Trump, who has ratcheted up his anti- Hong Kong act's sanctions provisions. would be a big blow for U.S. firms. The disastrous opinion polls for the party China rhetoric as he seeks re-election in "A further crackdown from Beijing State Department says 85,000 U.S. which indicated Ardern was headed November, told reporters "nobody knows will only intensify the Senate’s interest citizens lived in Hong Kong in 2018 and for a huge victory in September. yet" the details of China's plan. "If it in re-examining the U.S.-China more than 1,300 U.S. companies operate Muller, 51, is not a household name happens we'll address that issue very relationship,” U.S. Senate Majority there, including nearly every major U.S. in New Zealand but has support from strongly," he said. Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, financial firm. other lawmakers and farmers. He was Zhang Yesui, spokesman for the said in a statement. A previous attempt to introduce Hong a manager at a kiwifruit company and China's National People's Congress, said Wall Street ended lower on Thursday Kong national security legislation, a dairy company before he was first details of the legislation would be given as U.S.-China tensions raised doubts known as Article 23, in 2003 was met elected to Parliament in 2014. He had on Friday when the parliament holds its about a trade deal reached this year with mass peaceful protests and shelved. been acting as the opposition annual session. between the world’s two largest Online posts had urged people in Hong spokesperson for agriculture. "In light of the new circumstances and economies. Tensions have heightened Kong to protest on Thursday night and Before the pandemic hit, polling need, the National People's Congress significantly in recent weeks, with bitter dozens were seen shouting pro- indicated the National Party and (NPC) is exercising its constitutional exchanges over the coronavirus. democracy slogans in a shopping mall as Ardern's Labour Party were running power" to establish a new legal Pro-democracy demonstrators have for riot police stood nearby. neck-and-neck. But Ardern's framework and enforcement mechanism years opposed the idea of national Opposition lawmakers said the move leadership since then has been to safeguard national security in Hong security laws, arguing they could erode would gravely wound Hong Kong's praised, while Bridges' criticism of Kong, he told a briefing. the city's high degree of autonomy, reputation as a financial centre and its some of her actions appeared to be The "Hong Kong Human Rights and guaranteed under the "one country, two autonomy. turning away even some of National's Democracy Act" approved by Trump last systems" formula in place for two "If this move takes place, 'one country, longtime supporters. year requires the State Department to decades. A senior Hong Kong two systems' will be officially erased," Ardern took bold steps when the certify at least annually that Hong Kong government official said details on the said democratic lawmaker Dennis Kwok. virus arrived in New Zealand, closing retains enough autonomy to justify move and its implementation remained “This is the end of Hong Kong." the border and putting the country favourable U.S. trading terms. unclear, but Hong Kong media have Daniel Russel, the top U.S. diplomat for under a strict lockdown with a motto: U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reported the legislation would ban Asia until early in the Trump “Go hard and go early.” Her goal of said on May 6 he was delaying this secession, foreign interference, administration, suggested Chinese eliminating the virus has been largely assessment to account for any NPC terrorism and all seditious activities President Xi Jinping might see "muscle- successful, with only two new actions. If the State Department aimed at toppling the central flexing" on Hong Kong as a means to infections reported over the past six decertifies the territory, it would still government. U.S. State Department make up for a series of setbacks, most days. ultimately fall to Trump whether to spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said any notably the coronavirus pandemic that Ardern's government has also decide to end some, all, or none of the Chinese move to impose legislation that began in China - despite the risk of announced a huge program of privileges Hong Kong currently enjoys. did not reflect the will of the people severe economic consequences for Hong borrowing and spending as it attempts On Thursday, Democratic and would be highly destabilising and met Kong, China and others. Reuters to keep unemployment below 10 per cent in the wake of the pandemic. Following a week of internal rumblings, National's caucus met UK scheme for overseas doctor's kin Friday and elected Muller as the party's new leader and lawmaker LONDON (TIP): : The British to lower-paid NHS support staff, Nikki Kaye as the new deputy. Kaye, government has extended a Covid-19 including from India. 40, replaces Paula Bennett. Bereavement Scheme, which grants “Every death in this crisis is a “New Zealanders need a National permanent UK residency to the family tragedy, and sadly some NHS support government with the experience and members of overseas medics who die staff and social care workers have management skills to get our country after contracting the coronavirus, to all made the ultimate sacrifice in the through the worst crisis since the end healthcare staff and social care pursuit of saving the lives of others,” of the Second World War," Muller said workers. the Indian-origin Cabinet minister in a statement. “My focus as leader is UK Home Secretary Priti Patel on said. our country's economic recovery and Wednesday said the scheme will apply The UK has so far officially recorded the strengthening of every not only to the families and dependents 312 healthcare-related deaths from community throughout New of foreign doctors and nurses killed on coronavirus — 181 of them in the NHS Zealand.” — AP the National Health Service (NHS) and 131 social care workers within the frontline during the pandemic, but also healthcare sector. —PTI THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 WORLD 23

Tornado hits Sumatra, Recession-hit Japan’s exports, kills two JAKARTA (TIP): A tornado ripped imports fall due to pandemic through several villages on Indonesia’s Sumatra island, killing at TOKYO (TIP): Recession-hit Japan’s least two persons, damaging hundreds exports plunged nearly 22 per cent in of homes, and fatally knocking over a April, the country’s worst drop in more cow, a disaster official said on than a decade as the coronavirus Thursday. pandemic slammed global demand. Another six people, most with The Finance Ministry also said on serious injuries, were taken to a Thursday that imports fell 7 per cent. hospital after the tornado touched The drop in exports is the worst since down on Wednesday evening in the 2008 financial crisis, as export- Lampung province’s Tulang Bawang dependent Japan struggles to juggle the district. health risks of COVID-19 with the dire The powerful winds damaged 245 need to keep the economy going. homes in three villages and knocked Like many other nations, Japan has out power to most of the area. Officials asked people to work from home and were still evacuating villagers from maintain social distance to stop the affected areas on Thursday. —AP virus from spreading. The government initiative was eased this month in Court orders regions with few or no new infections, Netanyahu to appear though it remains in place for Tokyo and some other areas. for trial For April, exports totaled 5.2 trillion JERUSALEM (TIP): An Israeli yen (USD 48 billion), down from nearly court on Wednesday ordered Prime 6.7 trillion yen the same month in 2019. textiles. prolonged. Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Imports dropped to 6.1 trillion yen (USD Imports edged down in iron and steel Tourism and travel had dwindled. appear for the opening of his criminal 57 billion) from 6.6 trillion yen. products, food such as fish and cereal, Restaurants are closed or resorting to trial in Jerusalem on Sunday. Exports fell most dramatically to the and computer parts. takeouts, and those that stay open are Netanyahu's attorneys had asked the US, India, Australia, South America, Japan is in a technical recession after seeing fewer customers. court for an exemption from appearing Russia, Iran and Italy. Exports also a contraction that began in the last Even before, the world’s third-largest for the opening of proceedings. declined to China, where the outbreak quarter of last year deepened in the economy barely eked out growth over The court rejected the request, began. January-March quarter. Analysts say some periods. The recent trade conflict saying the accused appearing for the By sector, exports were lower in worse may be ahead, given the between China and the US also hurt reading of the indictment is the rule vehicles, machinery, chemicals and economic pain of the pandemic may be Japan. — AP and there are no grounds for granting Netanyahu an exemption in this case. Netanyahu was indicted on charges of fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes last year. He has SPAIN PM SEEKS 2-WEEK denied any wrongdoing in the series of scandals involving accepting lavish gifts from wealthy friends, trading EXTENSION OF LOCKDOWN media reforms for positive coverage. Netanyahu’s trial was supposed to MADRID (TIP) : Spain’s fragile left- begin last month, but was delayed by wing coalition sought support from his justice minister due to the political foes to extend a state of pandemic. Israel’s longest-serving emergency on Wednesday as public Prime Minister, Netanyahu swore in protests simmered over the coronavirus his fourth consecutive government crisis' damage to the economy and tough earlier this week after the country’s social restrictions. third national election in under a year. Even though deaths are slowing and —AP Spain hopes to mostly lift a strict lockdown by the end of June, Prime Taiwan President Minister Pedro Sanchez wants to keep rejects China rule special powers for two more weeks to control the easing of restrictions. TAIPEI (TIP): Taiwan cannot “We have not got this far by inertia, but accept becoming part of China under by the work of the health workers,” its "one country, two systems" offer of Sanchez said. Spain has recorded 27,778 autonomy , President Tsai Ing-wen deaths and 232,037 cases of COVID-19, but said on Wednesday, strongly rejecting new fatalities have slowed to under 100 a China's sovereignty claims and likely day. The leader of the conservative setting the stage for an ever worsening People’s Party accused Sanchez of going of ties. China responded that too far in one of Europe’s toughest “reunification” was inevitable and lockdowns. “Your plan has been a failure. that it would never tolerate Taiwan’s Confinement prevents contagion but that COMBATTING THE VIRUS independence. cannot be an unlimited measure,” Pablo US immunotherapy company Inovio Pharmaceuticals said its experimental vaccine In a speech after being sworn in for Casado said in parliament. “Your policies was shown to produce antibodies and immune system responses in mice and her second and final term in office, are causing wreckage.” guinea pigs. Tsai said relations between Taiwan With Spain’s tourism-dependent The United States, Mexico and Canada said on Tuesday they would extend a ban and China had reached an historical on non-essential cross-border travel by another 30 days. economy forecast to contract up to 12.4% turning point. Tsai and her The WHO expressed concern on Wednesday said 1,06,000 new cases were in 2020, frustration is boiling into Democratic Progressive Party won recorded in the past 24 hours, the most in a single day since the outbreak began. protests. Groups of up to several January’s presidential and Brazil’s daily toll jumped to a record 1,179 on Tuesday as President Jair Bolsonaro hundred demonstrators have been doubled down on chloroquine as a possible remedy, while Donald Trump said he parliamentary elections by a landslide, gathering daily to bang pots outside was considering banning travel to and from Brazil. vowing to stand up to China, which homes and call for the government’s Cambridge has become the first university in Britain to cancel all face-to-face claims Taiwan as its own and says it resignation, violating social-distancing lectures for the 2020-21 academic year after 800 years of welcoming students to would be brought under Beijing’s rules. —Reuters its cloisters, quadrangles and classrooms. control by force if needed. —Reuters THE INDIAN PANORAMA 24 WOMEN FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

CONNOISSEUR’S WANT TO AVOID DRY SKIN? CHOICE HYDRATE, EXFOLIATE AND MOISTURISE Sheila Chaman o save your skin from dryness Spinach-chicken and dehydration increase Twater intake and exfoliate the dead skin cells to achieve smooth recipe skin, says experts. Ingredients Use these tips to get spotless skin in summer: 1 Chicken breast - cut into small pieces 2 large tomatoes Hydrate 1 green chili Hydrating yourself is absolutely 2 onions chopped essential to keep your skin healthy. 2 teaspoons grated ginger A lot of water content from the body 2 teaspoons grated garlic is lost while you sweat during 1 bunch Spinach finely chopped and thoroughly summer season. Therefore, it is washed essential to increase water intake 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds by a couple of glasses every day. 1 bay leaf Avoid caffeinated drinks and keep 2 cardamoms - crushed away from aerated drinks too as Salt, coriander powder& turmeric they further dehydrate the skin. A few baby carrots or baby potatoes (optional) Instead, opt for freshly squeezed 2 tablespoons cooking Oil lime juice or go for coconut water and other fresh juices. Method Heat Oil in a flat large pan Exfoliate Throw in the cumin seeds and let it splutter- add Exfoliation helps in the removal ginger, garlic, cardamoms, bay leaf and stir a bit of dead skin cells and in achieving before adding onions. Sauté a bit till semi brown. smooth skin. You can do it yourself Put the chicken pieces and keep stirring till it is at home with the right mix. well sautéed. Put in the spinach (and Oatmeal, honey, lemon, curd, carrots/potatoes if using those too). Cover and cucumber are some of the cook on medium heat till it is dry- stir a bit. Add ingredients that can work wonders The salt, coriander powder and turmeric and the on your skin. In summer season, content in your body, thereby tomatoes -chili paste which have been puréed in exfoliate at least thrice a week to causing dryness. Try to use a fan as blender. Mix well and add a little water (depending remove dead skin and improve much as possible and keep the AC to on the consistency you need and eating with blood circulation. a moderate level or switch it off rice/roti or just plain dry). Cook well (Stirring after regular intervals. occasionally) till Chicken is done. Cover and let it Moisturise simmer on slow fire for a while before serving. It is necessary to moisturise your Balanced diet (Sheila Chaman can be reached at skin before you step out in the t is not just water that helps you to [email protected]) searing sun. This will keep your stay hydrated; indulging in fresh skin hydrated and prevent it from fruits, leafy vegetables and salads becoming dry and scaly. Apply a help as well. Eat the right food to light and non-greasy moisturiser nourish your skin and stay fit after you step out from a shower and during summer. Avoid boiling or before applying sunscreen. Follow steaming vegetables for too long, as this procedure in the night. this will reduce their water content. Junk food, beverages, non- Air conditioners vegetarian and spicy preparations Air conditioners soak up the are a strict no-no as well during skin’s natural oils and moisture summer. TAKE CARE OF YOUR HAIR

leanse and condition: Begin your hair care massage into your hair strands for frizz-free smooth routine by cleansing your hair with a shampoo, tresses. Cbest suited for your hair type and concerns. Make sure that the water used is warm and avoid Repair and protect using extremely hot water – which may cause hair Use products that are specially formulated to treat strands to break off. Follow it up with a nourishing fragile hair, to maintain elasticity of hair and restore conditioner that will keep the nutrients intact leaving shine. Protect your tresses by avoiding common you with soft and silky smooth hair. mistakes such as – using products without seeking advice from a professional, using thermal styling tools Hydrate and nourish without using a heat protectant or using the wrong Show your hair some tender love and care by using comb that can in turn cause damage (use different a hair mask once a week which will leave your hair combs for detangling, styling, flattening frizz). deeply conditioned. Ensure that the mask you are using is formulated using nourishing ingredients like Coloured hair aloe vera for restoring hydration, which will help For people with coloured hair, the summer calls for restore and rejuvenate dull hair. Use this post your some extra care as the heat can make the already dry conditioner and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. hair even more dry and lead to dullness. Make sure you use products that are specially made for coloured Manage and transform hair and address the concerns of dull and dry hair to Tame unruly hair with a serum or leave-in cream give shine and vibrancy. This will also help in which will protect your hair from humidity and the maintaining the longevity of the colour and reduce subsequent frizz. Apply on wet or dry hair and fading. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 HEALTH 25 GET RID OF MOUTH ULCERS WITH KITCHEN INGREDIENTS

o you often suffer from mouth ulcers? Does it make it Ddifficult for you to talk, eat, and even drink water? Mouth ulcer is a health condition when open sores develop on the inside of the cheeks or tongue. Most of the time they heal naturally within a few days, but in some cases, they need medical attention. But if you are suffering from common mouth ulcers, then here TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BLOOD are some home remedies that can help you get rid of them naturally. SUGAR LEVELS IN CHECK Causes The exact cause of mouth ulcers AMID PANDEMIC is still a mystery.However, there are certain factors that may aggravate Keep a check on your diet mouth ulcers. These include: Maintain a balanced diet plan and follow it Quitting smoking antimicrobial properties. Simply, it with some amla powder and then religiously. Biting the tongue chewing some fresh leaves will cure apply it on the affected area. Eat calculated amount of calories to meet the Eating fruits that are acidic in mouth ulcers and give you instant Mulethi Powder body's requirement. This will help achieve nature relief from the pain. You might find ideal/desirable body weight. Lack of essential nutrients them bitter in taste but it really Mulethi is known for its As far as possible, try to eat high fibre foods Stress or anxiety works great for your mouth. You medicinal properties. As per (whole grains, pulses, and all green vegetables) as Fungal infections can also boil some holy basil leaves Ayurveda, mulethi helps in well as greens and vegetables. During meals, take Hormonal changes during and use the water to gargle two- cleansing the stomach and removes equal quantity of grain, dal, cooked vegetables pregnancy, puberty, and three times a day.Make sure you try toxins that could be responsible for and salads. menopause this remedy daily for effective the ulcers. You can either consume Eat less fruits. Intake of pain killers results. it with water or honey. Eat diet which is low in glycemic index to keep Genetic factors Honey Aloe Vera blood sugar levels within desired range. Filtered mustard oil, groundnut oil, rice bran oil Home Remedies Honey has natural anti- Another great ingredient which and gingelly oil should be preferred. Olive oil is If you are looking for an effective inflammatory and antibacterial helps in curing mouth ulcers is Aloe best used for salads. home remedy for mouth ulcers, try properties which are beneficial for Vera. It has natural anti- Drink sufficient amount of water.250 ml per 10 kg these remedies. your mouth. It also fastens the inflammatory properties that fight body weight. Tulsi Leaves process of new tissue growth which bacteria and make your mouth Sleep before 11 pm. in turn gives you relief from mouth ulcer free. Simply, drink one cup of Tulsi leaves are known to possess ulcers. You can either apply it aloe vera juice daily to cure mouth medicinal, anti-inflammatory, and directly on the affected area, or mix ulcers. What type of exercises can diabetics do? Stairs can help you workout. Here's how. Diabetics should concentrate more on exercise than diet, suggests Dr Tripathi. They should do: BEST FOOD FOR YOUR LUNGS Full range of motion (ROM) exercises — neck exercises, head tilts, forward and back and side- to-side and head turns, arms and elbow exercise, hat you eat has an effect on hip and waist twisting, leg movements pretty much every aspect of Chair Surya Namaskar or regular Surya Wyour health—and that Namaskar at least 6-12 times per day includes your lungs, too. That's Chair-based exercises (yoga and stretching) right, there are some foods that can Stair climbing — two hours after meals brings promote good lung health, reduce blood sugar under control rapidly (100-300 steps) inflammation and the presence of Skipping ropes (if knees are in good shape, and mucus, increase lung capacity, and weight under control) improve your body's ability to ward 15-20 minute walking can be done everyday off lung disease. It's especially Deep breathing exercises (pranayamas) important to do all you can to make Minimum 30 minutes of workout should be sure your lungs are in the best included in daily routine. shape possible right now, too. And Along with diet and exercise, mental health is you can easily do that by adding equally important. With the current lifestyle, some of these foods to your diet. there is also a lot of stress and negativity around, Here's what our experts and one should be careful. recommend you add to your shopping list to help your lungs be as healthy as they can be with these PAGE SPONSORED BY best foods for lungs. rich in the mineral as well. according to Trista Best, registered dietitian at Balance One DR. SATISH AND GITANJLI ANAND Bananas Tomatoes Supplements and adjunct nutrition Potassium-rich bananas are an Tomatoes, too, are rich in professor. DR. SATISH ANAND excellent choice for improved lung potassium, and that's not the only Former Chairman, Board of function, according to Lisa Richards, way they help to improve lung Fatty Fish Trustees, AAPI National nutritionist and author of The health. One study led by When our bodies metabolize food, E-Mail: Candida Diet, who notes that researchers at the Johns Hopkins we use oxygen and produce carbon [email protected] potassium is "essential" for good lung Bloomberg School of Public Health dioxide. As Dr. Lina Velikova, MD, health and function. According to found that a diet high in tomatoes Ph.D., a medical advisor at one study from the Keck School of slowed the decline of lung health Supplements101.net, explains, the GITANJLI ANAND Medicine, consuming enough in former smokers. lungs' primary function is to load Former President, India potassium, specifically as a child, Tomatoes are also rich in the blood with oxygen—and filter Association of Long Island helps to increase lung function and vitamin C, which not only bolsters out carbon dioxide—"reducing the (IALI) capacity. Along with bananas, immune health but can also level of carbon dioxide means less E-mail: avocados, squash, and oranges, are specifically improve lung health, work for the lungs." [email protected] THE INDIAN PANORAMA 26 SCIENCE & TECH FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 MICROSOFT UNVEILS CLOUD TOOLS TAILORED FOR HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS icrosoft Corp unveiled a package of cloud software Mdesigned for health care systems, starting with a free trial to help the industry weather a viral pandemic that is both increasing the need for technology solutions and putting hospitals in financial INSTAGRAM MAKES IT EASIER peril. Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare TO SEE WHEN YOU’RE includes tools that allow for digital triage, telemedicine and BROADCASTING MUSIC YOU coordination of care using internet- based services, chat and CAN’T USE conferencing apps. The product, unveiled Tuesday as part of a nstagram has posted its guidelines for using virtual version of the company’s copyrighted music during live videos, Stories, and annual Build conference for Iother posts on the platform, and part of the software developers, is Microsoft’s announcement includes a new update to the first industry-specific cloud- communicating with patients, have 19 patients while revenue plunges notification that pops up to tell users they’re using computing offering. It’s available gained traction as the Covid-19 because other procedures have unlicensed art in ways that violate its rules. The now via a preview and free trial for outbreak has health care industry been delayed. changes to the pop-up notification are designed the next six months. customers looking for ways to track Providence St Joseph Health, a around helping users avoid Instagram’s automated The package combines the spread of the virus, predict chain with hospitals in seven interruptions — like muting or outright blocking — Microsoft’s Azure cloud service — equipment needs and connect Western states, has used a version that occurs if a piece of licensed music plays for too which helps organizations run patients and doctors online. of Microsoft’s health care chat bot long over or in the background of a live video. programs and store and analyze “At this particular time there’s to screen patients for Covid-19 and Now, the notification pops up earlier in live data — with the Teams the increased demand to go virtual funnel those who need care to a broadcasts to give users more time to remove the communication app and developer and have connectivity, while provider or a telemedicine audio so they can avoid having the stream disrupted tools for creating applications. needing to pay attention to the consultation, Moore said. In total or taken down. Instagram will also give clearer Microsoft, the second-biggest cloud bottom line so they can continue to more than 1,600 Covid-19 care bots instructions to remedy the situation in the event a infrastructure provider behind serve,” said Greg Moore, corporate are in use that rely on Microsoft’s stream is automatically muted or blocked due to use Amazon.com Inc, has made the vice president of Microsoft software, largely as a tool to reduce of unlicensed music. health care industry a focus as it Health. “This is a time for strain on emergency hotlines. “These notifications are intended to alert you when tries to gain customers. Some of the Microsoft to come in and help They’re deployed in 23 countries in our systems detect that your broadcast or uploaded tools Microsoft has been working on what are already our deep cities from Copenhagen to Tel Aviv, video may include music in a way that doesn’t adhere for several years, including partners in health care.” Hospitals including a Covid assessment bot to our licensing agreements,” reads Instagram’s blog artificial intelligence and have been hit especially hard, with from the US Centers for Disease post on the changes. “Updates include making automated chat-bot software for costs rising as they care for Covid- Control and Prevention. notifications clearer and surfacing notifications earlier to live broadcasters, to give people time to adjust their streams and avoid interruptions if we HIGH-SPEED VIDEO SHOWS EVERY SECOND Twitter starts detect they may be approaching our limitations.” testing feature Get notified the day your OF A PRAYING MANTIS’S LETHAL STRIKE ew slow-motion video shows how that lets you stimulus check arrives in the praying mantises snatch their choose who Nprey with lightning-fast, deadly mail. Here's how precision. Though these strikes are completed in replies to your f you're craning your neck every time the mail microseconds, the long-armed predators tweet carrier walks by, you can make it easier to predict calibrate their attacks even more quickly Iwhen your stimulus check will turn up. The US than that, adjusting to prey's speed and witter is making it Postal Service can save you some time and anguish movements; praying mantises can even easy for users to with a free service that will share you a digital image halt mistimed attacks mid-strike, Tcontrol their tweets of your actual check-containing envelope and even scientists reported in a new study. and avoid unwanted alert you when your payment is in transit. Mantises are ambush predators; replies. Starting The free service, called Informed Delivery, does rather than stalking or chasing their Wednesday, select Twitter have some limitations, so you might prefer to start by prey, they select a perch and then wait, frogs, or the loaded punch of mantis users will be able to tracking your payment through the online IRS portal motionless, their spike-studded arms shrimps," Rossoni told Live Science in an control who can respond first. This should give you a ballpark estimate of folded and ready. When an unsuspecting email. to their tweets and who when your payment will arrive. After that, Informed victim wanders too close, the mantis "The assumption was that a spring can’t. From now on, before Delivery verifies that the check has in fact been lunges and grabs, holding tight to the needs to be loaded with a set force in every tweet, you’ll see processed by the USPS and is on its way. prey's wriggling body. The mantis then order to spring back, leaving little room three options: everyone, A word before you begin. If you're using the IRS' begins to feed on its living victim almost for variability," he explained. only people you follow and online tracking tool, which is called Get My Payment immediately. But Rossoni and his co-author Jeremy only people you mention. (remember, this is separate from the USPS service), This type of sit-and-wait approach was Niven, a senior lecturer at the University This one is quite similar there's a chance you could run into trouble, like an long thought to be mostly one-size-fits- of Sussex in England, suspected that to Facebook’s custom error message that's hard to discern or issues all, with predators using the same mantises' ambush attacks could be more option for posts that identifying who you are. If you do, here are 12 technique over and over again, said lead flexible. The scientists put that to the test allows users to select who possible explanations for what's going on and how study author Sergio Rossoni, a doctoral by observing and documenting the can see their post and who you might be able to work around them. candidate in the Department of Zoology hunting habits of Madagascan marbled can’t. The options will If you're starting to get nervous, here are nine at the University of Cambridge's Clare praying mantids (Polyspilota allow you to limit your reasons why you may not have received your stimulus College, in England. aeruginosa), creating enclosed "arenas" tweet to a specific group of check yet. And if you're hearing chatter about "This is because a lot of famous sit- for their mantises; offering them small people and keep unwanted another economic relief bill, here's what we know and-wait predators use attacks, which insects or tiny beads as attack targets; replies away. Everyone about the possibility of a second round of stimulus rely on a loaded spring (like a jack-in-the- and filming the mantis strikes at 200 will be able to see these checks. box toy), such as the projectile tongue of frames per second. conversations though. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 BIZ & FINANCE 27 US private equity giant KKR picks 2.32% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 11,367 crore

NEW DELHI (TIP): Reliance Industries on Friday announced the sale of a 2.32 per cent stake in its digital unit to US private equity giant KKR for Rs 11,367 crore, the fifth deal in four weeks that will inject a combined EMIs SET TO GET CHEAPER Rs 78,562 crore in the oil-to-telecom conglomerate to help it pare debt. This is KKR’s largest investment in Asia. AS RBI CUTS REPO RATE “This transaction values Jio Platforms at an equity value of Rs 4.91 lakh crore and an enterprise value of NEW DELHI (TIP): The Reserve Bank of India Rs 5.16 lakh crore. This is KKR’s largest investment in (RBI) announced a cut in its key interest rates on Asia and will translate into a 2.32 per cent equity stake Friday. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said that the in Jio Platforms on a fully diluted basis,” the company repo rate has been cut by 40 basis points (bps) to 4 per said in a statement. Diverse marquee investors are becoming long-term cent and the reverse repo rate stands at 3.35 per cent. The deal follows Facebook picking up a 9.99 per cent shareholders of Jio Platforms Ltd (JPL) because of a Following the announcement by the central bank stake in the firm, housing India’s youngest but largest unique set of technologies and platforms under one governor, the loan EMIs are set to get cheaper telecom company, on April 22 for Rs 43,574 crore. entity. There are no similar opportunities available particularly the home loans that are linked to the Within days of that deal, Silver Lake – the world’s anywhere else globally. And an endorsement of the marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR) of largest tech investor – bought a 1.15 per cent stake in Jio quality of the management. the lending banks. Platforms for Rs 5,665.75 crore. Investments by leading global growth investors will In his third press conference in two months, the RBI On May 8, US-based Vista Equity Partners bought 2.32 enable Jio to scale its ecosystem and reaffirm the firm Governor said biggest blow of Covid-19 has been per cent stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 11,367 crore. On as a next generation software product and platform domestic consumption. “Industrial production shrank May 17 global equity firm General Atlantic picked up company. by 17 per cent in March due to India’s lockdown, while 1.34 per cent stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 6,598.38 crore. “Jio Platforms, a wholly-owned subsidiary of manufacturing activity fell by 21 per cent. Output of “Over the last month, leading technology investors, Reliance Industries, is a next-generation technology core industries contracted by 6.5 per cent,” he said. such as, Facebook, Silver Lake, Vista, General Atlantic platform focused on providing high-quality and Saying that the GDP growth is estimated to remain and KKR have announced aggregate investments of Rs affordable digital services across India, with more than in the negative, with some pick up in the second half, 78,562 crore into Jio Platforms,” it said. 388 million subscribers,” the statement said. Das said the simultaneous fiscal, monetary and administration measures will create conditions for a gradual revival of activity in the second half of 2020- Govt stimulus package does not 2021. Spain, Italy ramp up debt sales to address immediate concerns of confront daunting Covid-19 costs healthcare system: Fitch wo of Europe’s most cash-strapped countries are NEW DELHI (TIP): Fitch Solutions has said that the stepping up bond sales to fund the surge in latest stimulus package does not address immediate Tspending needed to shore up their pandemic- concerns of the healthcare system which is reeling under battered economies. the pressure of COVID-19 pandemic. Spanish officials on Thursday boosted net debt On March 11, the Ministry of Finance increased allocation issuance for this year to 130 billion euros ($143 billion), – 0.008 per cent of the country’s GDP – to the health services a fourfold increase from a target set in January. That division to support an expansion of healthcare spending, exceeds a previous record set in 2009, in the depths of Fitch Solutions Country Risk and Industry Research (a unit the region’s last major economic contraction. of Fitch Group) said. Gold slides on hopes of In Italy, the Treasury sold a record 22.3 billion euros It is to be noted that this is not a new budgetary allocation, of five-year retail notes. Mom and pop buyers but only a rerouting of existing expenditure, it said, adding submitted around 14 billion euros in orders and the that the “stimulus package is lacking in addressing the recovery in economic growth proceeds are tagged to fund the “Covid-19 emergency.” immediate concerns of the healthcare system”. old fell on Thursday on hopes of a swift Borrowing costs for both countries have dropped The unprecedented crisis due to COVID-19 has highlighted recovery in growth following easing of after France and Germany announced a plan to the need to increase investment in the healthcare sector in Glockdowns and possibility of a coronavirus support a 500-billion-euro fund, backed by debt, as part the country. vaccine, but bleak data from major economies of the euro area’s effort to help the most indebted Despite several healthcare reforms, India is badly placed limited losses. countries avoid an economic crisis that could tear the to tackle the rapid spread of coronavirus. Spot gold slid 0.7% to $1,737.09 per ounce by 0744 monetary union apart. Italy and Spain have been The continued lack of medical funding and healthcare GMT. US gold futures slipped 0.8% to $1,738.40. among the hardest-hit by the virus. Already saddled infrastructure suggests that the impact of further spread of Global equities surged overnight, though gains with much higher debt levels than northern the disease will be worse in India if it is not adequately during Asian hours were limited by lingering neighbors, their economies are suffering a deeper contained, it said. caution about the long-term impact of the recession because of strict lockdowns to curb the Moreover, the significant inefficiency, dysfunctioning and coronavirus outbreak. disease. Economists say the cost of spending too little acute shortage of the healthcare delivery systems in the “There is still some optimism and risk-on could only mean a bigger fiscal crisis in the future. public sector do not match up with the growing needs of the sentiment about the possibility of a vaccine and But until European Union members endorse a deal population. talks of lockdown easing and growth slowly to share the burden, support from the European The low level of public spending on health is both a cause picking up,” said National Australia Bank Central Bank remains the main thing keeping bond and an exacerbating factor accounting for the poor quality, economist John Sharma. yields from spiraling out of control. The ECB is limited reach and insufficient public provisioning of “But it not a huge thing and if it was major, we vacuuming up securities issued by euro area members healthcare, it said. “Dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic would see gold going below $1,700.” as part of its bolstered bond-buying program, which has brought out the critical importance of the public sector Gold rallied to its highest since October 2012 on economists say could be expanded as early as June. in health provisioning,” Fitch added. Monday,driven by economic damage concerns, US- Rapidly declining revenues and sharply eroding profits are China tensions and massive monetary and fiscal leading to the closure of many private hospitals. stimulus. Despite all its shortages and constraints, the public sector US Federal Reserve policymakers acknowledged has had to step up to play the main role of addressing the possibility of further support measures if the healthcare needs during this pandemic as the private economic downturn persists, the minutes from the hospitals have responded inadequately to the crisis, it said. latest policy meeting showed. Private hospitals, which make up for two-thirds of hospital The latest round of dismal economic indicators beds in India, and almost 80 per cent of available ventilators, have underscored the extent of damage inflicted are handling less than 10 per cent of the critical load of by the virus, with data showing Britain’s inflation COVID-19 patients. slumped to its lowest since 2016. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 28 ASTROLOGY FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Shree Ganeshaya Namah

Bejan Daruwalla is world's most famous astrologertoday. He appears regularly on world wide TV shows. Bejan who has been a professor in English, hasauthored a number of books on astrology. India'sPrime Minister Narendra Modi , on March 29, 2012,lunched one of Bejan's books, '2012- End of theWorld? Bejan contributes to a number of journals andnewspapers in many parts of the world which includeBerkley Communications Bejan Daruwalla is available for astrological (London) Times of India(Delhi, Mumbai, consultations. He can be reached at Kolkata, Chennai) and The IndianPanorama ( [email protected] and on phone New York and Texas). Bejan's predictionshave mostly been correct and 91-8141234275 people the world overrely on his predictions. www.bejandaruwalla.com

The Indian Panorama brings you Weekly and Birthday Horoscope from the World's most trusted astrologer Bejan Daruwalla. Latest correct prediction: Modi's historic victory Weekly Horoscope May 18 - May 24, 2020 ARIES: Ganesha says you may come across LEO: You take a radically different approach SAGITTARIUS: You're dreaming and many complex situations this period but you to work and the results are all too visible. You planning for the future. You're renovating the will manage to demonstrate a level of move away from old-fashioned practices and house. Your kitchen is the primary space for maturity that surprises yourself and manage come up with brilliant ideas which win kudos connecting; it is the command centre for family to overcome all that is thrown at you. You will from across the board. There is little time for interactions and coordination. Your house has do whatever it takes to be happy. You have family as you slog away with your new work always been sought after for entertaining realised that nobody can take that away from schedules and ideas. You do outstandingly well friends. People show up unannounced because you. You will orient yourself, evaluate the but along with this come jealousy, backbiting you make them feel at home. You, thankfully, situation and develop a cognitive map. and a lot of bitching. take a break from work and spend time with TAURUS: There are many new realisations VIRGO: You have recently come out of a long children, pets and your beloved. this period. The world is changing rapidly and relationship or are thinking about an exit CAPRICORN: You work to improve your you are forced to confront that reality. Don't strategy. You feel you have been wronged and spiritual plane by helping the underprivileged indulge in criticism and learn to accept feel like you need to go on a shopping spree. You and needy. You make donations to causes and change, and that people around you are spend on apparel, jewellery, cosmetics, spirits, offer medical aid to those who cannot afford it. entitled to their beliefs and quirks. Life is electronics and dining out. You are definitely They bless you from their hearts for this dynamic. Learn to forget the past and don't indulging far more than you ever did before but gesture. Ganesha too gives you his blessings. hold on to it or be by it. Every moment changes it is making you feel good. You are hurting You are able to enjoy moments of relaxation and you must learn to go with the flow. inside and prefer to bond only with your pets. and revitalisation thanks to all this. GEMINI: You realise that your own LIBRA: You concentrate heavily on money AQUARIUS: You have embarked on a happiness is a by-product of the happiness of matters this period. Funds, loans, finances, journey where people are looking at you for people around you. There is a lot of borrowing, buying and selling will boost your answers. You must consolidate your entertaining and you spend lavishly on your self-confidence and pride. You want to discretionary time. Set yourself deadlines for family and friends. You use your intelligence, experience travel and combine it with knowledge various activities. Time is the scarcest imagination and knowledge to advantage and gathering. You may take an exotic vacation and resource and needs to be managed well. Every make rapid progress at work. You pore over may find yourself doing something adventurous, aspect of your existence will be galvanised, blueprints for the home, office or a home away different and exciting. You feel refreshed and improved, and uplifted. You will be more active from home. There are many new interests rejuvenated by all this and you may even wear at home as well and there will be harmony at which take hold of you this period. your adventures like a badge of honour. work and play. CANCER: Life takes on a sense of SCORPIO: You want it all, but are often PISCES: This could be a challenging period, adventure and there are exciting times spent exhausted trying to get it. You don't believe in delays, disappointments and adverse outdoors. You are reliving your childhood debt, but you won't let back of money stand in the conditions spelling out defeat and even doom. through your children or simply engaging in way of buying what you want. Financial liquidity You will have to be careful and not take undue activities that remind you of your youth. It's a is both necessary and desirable if your goal has risks. Learn to compromise and don't embark pleasurable experience and immensely to be realistically achieved. You are driven and on new projects. Be wary of dangerous rewarding. Things may not be hot on the determined. But there are many moments of activities as the risk of accidents is quite high. relationship front but your work is both anxiety and bouts of depression. You feel alone, There may also be minor illness and engaging and profitable. and solitude and loneliness don't suit you. hospitalisation.

Birthday Horoscope May 18 - May 24, 2020

May 25:Ganesha says if there are shared assets, you can access it today. This could also manifest May 30: This could be a banner day. Private or intimacies, in question, the struggle for in needed funds showing up through a private gain or a beloved supporter could be reason to pursuit of them today can get craggy. Don't let supporter celebrate or rejoice secretly. Emotions are possessiveness lead to assertive, unstable May 28: News from afar or contact with complicated and flying high, but seal happy actions that cut into cash or love. someone who's travelling could make you accord by evening. May 26: The Moon is in your house of shared wonder if there's some way you can get away, May 31: Because it might take awhile for this assets, money, sexual intimacy, mystery, power, too. By late night, an inventive solution may help day to get into gear, you may feel caught in and regeneration, a signal to plant seeds of trust you on your way. emotional logjams. If there isn't enough for and growth in these areas to see them blossom. May 29:Sharing money, love, or sex can feel like needs or someone is withholding, remember to May 27: If you've needed an extra dose of a boundary - less intimacy today, any of which value your own worth. confidence and power regarding an ambition, can provide sweet nothings or sweet profits. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 SPIRITUALITY 29

hiva occupies a prominent place in Hinduism. He is one of the STrimurthis, or the three highest manifestations of Brahman. As the THE PANCHANANA ASPECTS destroyer, in his function as Time (Kala) or Death, he represents the disintegration and dispersing mode of Tamas. However, in Shaivism, Shiva occupies the highest place and AND FORMS OF SHIVA represents purity and auspiciousness (shivam). As Brahman (Mahesvara) himself, and Lord of the Universe (Isvara), he performs five functions. The five functions of Shiva The five functions of Shiva as the Supreme Lord of the universe are as stated below. Creation, Srishti He creates all the worlds and beings, manifesting himself as the individual souls or pure consciousness in the bodies and in the materiality of all existence. Preservation, Sthithi As preserver, Shiva is responsible for the continuation of all the worlds and beings. In the body he is the sustaining power of breath (praneswara) and the digestive power of fire (jatharagni). He is the source of all food and water for gods and beings. Concealment, Tirobhava As the concealer, Shiva casts the net of delusion (maya) upon the whole creation and keeps the beings deluded, so that the order and regularity of the worlds are not disrupted. Because of his deluding power (maya-shakti) beings cannot perceive him or realize their own essential nature, which remains suppressed or hidden behind a veil of impurities. Revelation, Anugraha As the revealer of truth, source of and the manifesting power of the mind. a rosary and the second a hatchet. The and granting boons (varada) respectively. knowledge, and grace, Shiva is Among the senses, he represents the third and the fourth show the gestures of responsible for the liberation of beings. sense of touch and among the organs of offering protection (abhaya), and Rudra, the Destroyer None can achieve liberation without his the body, hands. In the iconography he granting boons (varada) respectively grace. In Shaivism individual effort and represents upward looking face. His Sadyojata, the Revealer He is also known Aghora (the non- good karma are important, but the grace color is copper. In individual images, he fearful one), who is battle-ready, and who of Shiva is even more important to is depicted along with a She-goat, He is Sada Shiva, the eternal being, is mentioned in the Vedas as the howler achieve liberation, for which the path of holding in his hands the Vedas, the who manifests spontaneously (sad and father of the war gods Maruts and knowledge is the prescribed method. elephant hook, a noose, hatchet, skull, yojata), and who is described as the Rudras. His main function is destruction Destruction, Laya or Samhara drum, rosary, trident, one hand showing granter of grace, leader of delight (samhara). He represents the element fire, the gestures of protection (abhaya) and (nanda) and enjoyment (sunanda). He the power of desire (iccha-shakti), the At the end of each cycle of creation, another that of offering boons (varada). represents the power of liberating punitive power of the law (dharma), the Shiva withdraws all worlds and beings Tat-Purusha, the Cosmic Being knowledge (jnana shakti), and the power of discrimination (buddhi), the into himself and goes into a temporary element of space. In the body he sense of hearing, and the organ of speech. restful mode. As Death and lord of He is Vishnu, the lord of preservation, represents the mind, the sense of taste, All these faculties are used in dispensing destruction, he is also responsible for the cosmic egg (Hiranyagarbha), the enjoyer, and according to some the sex organ. His justice and enforcing the law as the lord of renewal of life and rebirth of beings. nourisher, and the chief priest of the color is white, the color sattva, or purity. Dharma. His color is black or dark red. In cosmic sacrifice who represents bliss In the panchanana form he represents the panchanana form he represents the Panchanana Shiva (ananda shakti), the rising sun, the northern face. In the individual southern face. In individual images he is The five functions of Shiva are liberating knowledge, the material images he is shown as white colored, shown as a fierce god with four faces and represented in the panchanana abundance (Sri Siva tattva), and the holding the Vedas and rosary in two nine hands, holding ax, shield, elephant (pancanana) or the fivefold aspect of element of water. Among the sense hands and the other two showing the hook, noose, spear, skull, drum and Shiva. In the iconography, he is depicted organs he is the sense of smell, and in gestures of offering protection (abhaya), rosary respectively. as the five faced deity (pancha muka the bodily organs, the anus. In the Shiva), each face representing one of his iconography he represents the eastward PAGE SPONSORED BY five functions. The fivefold aspect of face and golden color. In individual Shiva also represents the fivefold aspect images he is shown with three eyes and ARISH K. SAHANI of creation, the five bodies (kosas) in the four faces, wearing yellow garments, and human beings, five breaths, five standing in the company of Gayathri. Serving Since 1972 directions, five elements, five senses, five Vamadeva, the Concealer Please Call or Write for Your Insurance Needs colors, five energies, five divisions of time, and five human races. Significance He is the suppressor who conceals Arish K Sahani (Father) of the panchanana form of Shiva is Tatpurusha behind a veil of delusion. He explained in the Linga Purana. A is the opposite (tirobhava) of Shiv Sahani (Son) reference to it is also found in the Tatpurusha, who is described as west Mahabharata. The five aspects of Shiva faced, evening sun, and the left-hand Priya Sahani Sood (Daughter) as represented in the five faced deity are (vama) deity.His color is red. In the body described below. he represents egoism (anava), the power 7 1 8 - 2 7 1 - 1 9 0 6 Ishana, the Lord of action (kriya-shakti), and the element [email protected] of air. Among the senses he is the sense He is Brahma, the lord of creation and of sight, and in the bodily organs, the “If Hindus don’t maintain Hinduism, who shall save it?” represents the mind power (chit-shakti), feet. In individual images he is shown as the element earth (or air according to red or lotus colored, adorned with red “If India’s own children don't cling to their faith, who shall guard it?” some), the ritual knowledge of the Vedas, ornaments, with four hands, one holding “Indians alone can save India, and India and Hinduism are one.” THE INDIAN PANORAMA 30 CLASSIFIEDS FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 ADVERTISEMENT 31 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 32 TURN PAGE FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 contd from page 1 Washington Post this week that he has "no doubt" parent I would not send my children to day camp," he there will be new waves of cases. said. "And if I won't send my children to day camp, I 80 reported dead as... "The virus is not going to disappear," he told Post. wouldn't ask anybody to send their children to day homeless, washed away bridges and swamped low- "It's a highly transmissible virus. At any given time, camp. It's that simple." lying areas. The fiercest cyclone to hit West Bengal in it's some place or another. As long as that's the case, Cuomo did not say whether sleepaway camps could 100 years destroyed mud houses and crops, and there's a risk of resurgence." be an option but promised to make a decision soon. uprooted trees and electricity poles. It also wreaked State leaders, not the federal government, have Though rare, the Kawasaki disease-like syndrome havoc in Odisha, damaging power and telecom imposed harsh restrictions on residents and can be extremely dangerous, as it attacks blood vessels infrastructure in several coastal districts. Odisha businesses to try to slow the spread of the disease. But throughout the body and can cause lethal toxic shock Government officials estimated it had affected around with the U.S. economy straining under the social in children, according to researchers. 44.8 lakh people in the state. distancing rules, Trump has loudly called on the Cuomo said scientists are still trying to figure out if "So far as per the reports we have received, 80 people country to begin the reopening process. some children are more prone to the symptoms. have died in the state due to Cyclone Amphan. Two All 50 states have now begun some level of reopening "They are still exploring this," he said. districts - North and South 24 Parganas - are - including New York, the epicenter of the crisis in the The summer school announcement came as New completely devastated. We have to rebuild those U.S. - even as cases continue to rise in some parts of York saw some good news on the coronavirus front. districts from scratch. I would urge the Central the country. Cuomo reported that new cases, hospitalizations and Government to extend all help to the state," Chief Trump did not wear a mask while touring Ford intubations were all trending downward, confirming Minister Mamata Banerjee told reporters after Motor Co.'s Rawsonville Components Plant in the state's coronavirus curve is continuing in the right conducting a review meeting with officials. Ypsilanti, despite a state law and company policy direction. "The restoration work will start soon. Large parts of requiring facial coverings there. The plant is currently "We got over the mountain," he said. North and South 24 Parganas and Kolkata are facing a making ventilators in response to the Covid-19 Still, another 105 New Yorkers died from massive power cut since last evening. Even telephone pandemic in the United States. coronavirus overnight, bringing the state's total death and mobile connections are down," she said, The outbreak, which began near the Chinese city of toll above 23,000. The tragic daily count has stayed announcing a compensation of Rs 2 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh Wuhan, has spread around the globe, with more than 5 effectively flat for nearly a week. (With inputs from for the next of kin of each of the deceased. million cases confirmed worldwide and over 328,471 Daily News) Besides North and South 24 Parganas and Kolkata, deaths, according to data from Johns Hopkins the districts of East Midnapore and Howrah were the University. contd from Page 7 worst hit as portions of several dilapidated buildings There are at least 1.5 million cases and at least 93,439 came crashing down in several places. deaths from the disease in the United States, according Indian Woman Starts Business... In Kolkata, hundreds of cars were overturned by the to the latest tallies from Johns Hopkins. With a lot of the Foundation's projects shut down strong winds with speed up to 125 kmph. Large parts of Trump is determined to revive the economy as he due to COVID, they weren't sure how they would keep Kolkata and other affected districts went without tries to convince voters to give him four more years in their work in food pantries going with the shortage of power as felled trees and electricity poles were the White House. More than 38 million U.S. workers PPE. But with support from Anandan, and now other blocking key arterial roads and intersections. Mobile have filed unemployment claims in the past nine Warren residents, they've been able to collect and give and Internet services were also disrupted as the fierce weeks as businesses shuttered amid the pandemic. away more than 1,000 masks. "Rohini was the start to cyclone had damaged several communication towers. But markets have experienced a booming rally this all of this," adds Gail. Residents recalled "living through hell" for six hours week, amid optimistic news about vaccine Shortly after being connected with Pester, Anandan as the winds howled incessantly. Windows buckled development and a growing sense from some public and her team of volunteers began donating masks to from the pressure of the storm, cars floated on figures that the country has turned a corner in its several local hospitals such as Atlantic Health System- waterlogged roads, bumping against each other. Parts fight against Covid-19. (Agencies) Overlook Hospital, St. Barnabas Medical Center, of air conditioners were flying around like missiles Cuomo bars summer... Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center, Summit Telecom in tatters Medical Group Foundation, local assisted living & is now investigating 157 cases of kids developing rehab facilities and to the NJ Warren Township Office In Kolkata, hundreds of cars were overturned by inflammatory symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease of Emergency Management. By the day, Anandan was strong winds with speeds up to 125 kmph. The fierce after contracting COVID-19 - a two-fold increase since getting requests from individuals asking to buy face cyclone felled trees and electricity poles, blocking key last week. masks. That's when the CDC recommended that roads. Mobile and Internet services were disrupted as At least five children in New York have died from the everyone wear masks to reduce the spread, and 1,000 mobile towers across Bengal were destroyed. terrifying symptoms, and Cuomo said there's too many Anandan decided to launch and scale her company. Shah speaks to CMs unknowns about the coronavirus-linked illness for Jane Ash, Coordinator for the Office of Emergency him to feel comfortable about allowing in-person Management for Warren Township said that Anandan Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday, May summer school to proceed. rose to the occasion to help people. "I can't begin to 21 spokewith Chief Ministers of Odisha and West New York schools have been closed since mid-March, thank Rohini for her generosity and spirit during this Bengal - Naveen Patnaik and Mamata Banerjee - and when the pandemic first thrust its fangs into the state, unpredicted time," said Ash. "She is an incredibly assured them of all possiblehelp. depriving millions of students of traditional generous person, and she'll be very successful in her classroom learning. new business." Trump says he won't... The governor didn't rule out keeping schools Today, Soft Cotton Face Masks employs a local team asked about a second wave during a tour of a Ford shuttered into the fall semester. to provide affordable masks for all. factory in Michigan. "It's still too early to make that determination," he About Soft Cotton Face Masks: "We are going to put out the fires. We're not going to said. close the country," Trump said. "We can put out the Cuomo said the state will issue guidelines to schools Soft Cotton Face Masks is a labor of love born out of fires. Whether it is an ember or a flame, we are going and colleges in mid-June so they can start developing a spirit to serve the community. Former Technology to put it out. But we are not closing our country." plans for potentially reopening in the fall with social executive Rohini Anandan offers 100% cotton, Trump has previously said there may be "embers" of distancing in mind. Academic institutions will in turn machine-washable masks to businesses, individuals, the pandemic that persist in the U.S. past the summer, have to submit those plans for approval at some point families of first responders, and community members. but he maintains that they will be stamped out. Health in July, Cuomo said. The masks are affordable and come in adult and kids experts, including those in the Trump administration, Cuomo said he hasn't made up his mind on summer sizes. For business professionals, there are plenty of have said that the virus will likely continue to spread camps yet, though he appeared to lean toward at least design options for when we return to the workplace. through the fall and winter, and may become even keeping day camps closed, again referencing the For every mask purchased, Soft Cotton Face Masks is more difficult to combat once flu season begins. coronavirus-caused inflammatory symptoms. able to donate more masks to healthcare professionals Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute "Should I send my children to day camp? Is it safe? who are working to keep our communities safe. More of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a member of Until we have this answer on this pediatric syndrome; at www.softcottonfacemasks.com the White House coronavirus task force, told The as a parent, until I know how widespread this is, as a THE INDIAN PANORAMA PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER: Prof. Indrajit S. 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Views CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: DALLAS EDITION DALLAS: Harjit Dhesi, Amarjit Dhillon published in the newspaper are those of the authors and do Baldev Singh / BJ Videos P.O. BOX 121695, ARLINGTON, TX 76012 OVERSEAS CORRESPONDENTS not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper. All rights Gunjesh Desai / Masala Junction Lovllien Kaurr, VP & Bureau Chief are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without DELHI BUREAU CHIEF: Ashishpal Singh Jay Mandal, Mohammad Jaffer/ SnapsIndia Bureau Chief Phone: 972-330-3139 permission in writing from The Indian Panorama is prohibited. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 TRAVEL 33

ocated amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually Lmisty landscape, Coorg is the place to be for all nature lovers. This popular coffee producing hill station is not only COORG: THE SCOTLAND popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them. It also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people. The Kodavas, a local clan specialising in martial arts, are especially notable for OF INDIA their keen hospitality. Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is the most affluent hill station in Karnataka. It is well known for its breathtakingly exotic scenery and lush greenery. Forest covered hills, spice and coffee plantations only add to the landscape. Madikeri is the region's centre point with all transportation for getting around starting from here. On a visit to Coorg, cover the beautiful towns like Virajpet, Kushalnagar, Gonikoppal, Pollibetta, and Somwarpet, and experience the beautiful concept of "homestays" to make your experience more memorable! Abbey Falls Abbey Falls, also known as Abbi Falls, is located around 10 kilometres away from the town of Madikeri and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in and around Coorg. The water cascade coming down from the cliff from a height of 70 feet provides a spectacular scene to behold. Nestled within the lush greenery which is typical to the sceneries of Western Ghats, the waterfalls attract hundreds and thousands of people throughout the year - especially nature lovers and photographers. The waterfall is located between private coffee plantations with stocky coffee bushes and spice estates with trees entwined with pepper vines. There is an over- bridge that hangs opposite of the falls, from where the most picturesque scene of white foams gushing down the ridge can be seen, captured and remembered. The flow of the falls leaves a significant amount of water spray on those who stand on the bridge for some time. Some small mountains streams and brooks join together to form one of the most beautiful waterfalls of South India and falling off its cliff as the water flows to join the River Kaveri or Cauvery as one of its tributaries. The walk to the falls from the main entrance has around 200 steps downwards throughout and takes you through exotic coffee, got its name from the Brahmagiri Park Tibetan Buddhism known as mountains is mesmerizing. The cardamom, pepper and other spice which is the highest peak with a height Nyingmapa. Popularly known as the delightful garden here is adorned with plantations. It is a fantastic opportunity of 1608 m. The primary vegetation of the 'Golden Temple', the Namdroling a multitude of flowers and is a treat to for shutterbugs to capture the real sanctuary includes evergreen and semi- Monastery holds some excellent nature lovers, and the proximity of the beauty and grace of the natural world. evergreen forests, shoal forest patches in examples of Tibetan architecture and location also makes it a preferred Even though bathing is prohibited in the grasslands and bamboos. The sanctuary artwork, as seen with the elaborately picnic spot for the locals. Visiting falls now, the essence of the place itself was established in the year 1974 and is decorated temple tower and ornate outer Raja's Seat is an excellent way to get a is quite enough to draw tourists every surrounded by plantations of coffee and walls, intricately adorned with beautiful glimpse into the lifestyle of royal day. cardamom. murals. It is spread over an area of 80 indulgence in Coorg. Some interesting birds one can spot in square feet and was built from Bamboo The Raja's Seat has been built on an Talacauvery the place include black bulbul, Malabar which was donated by the Indian elevated ground overseeing the valleys Talakaveri is the source of the river trogon, and emerald dove. Cobra, python Government to the Tibetans in exile. that lie to the west. Early mornings are Kaveri, located on the Brahmagiri hill and king cobra are some reptiles which Today, it houses many auxiliary usually misty and cold, but as the sun (not to be confused with the Brahmagiri can be easily spotted. Brahmagiri structures like educational institutions rises, the mist clears slowly offering a range further south) near Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to many and a hospital, in addition to being home mind-stirring view of the lush green Bhagamandala in Kodagu district, animals including macaques, gaurs, to about 5,000 members of the Sangha gardens adorned with colourful Karnataka. Kodavas erected a tank elephants, tigers, leopard, cats, wild pigs, community. seasonal flowers beds. The sunsets are which is now considered as its origin. It Nilgiri langurs and sloth bears. It is a equally splendid as the day slowly ends is believed that the river originates as a famous attraction visited by tourists Raja’s Seat with the Sun setting in the mountains. spring feeding a tank or a Kundike and almost throughout the year. It is also Raja's Seat, a garden with beautiful There is also a Toy Train available for then flows underground to re-emerge as famous among the trekkers. It is said by flowering plants and skilfully designed your little ones to take a ride on and the Kaveri some distance away.The place has the locals residing there that seven sages artificial fountains, is located in fountains have been modified into a temple dedicated to the Goddess meditated on the top of the hill. Madikeri in the district of Coorg. The musical fountains. Today, this place is Kaveriamma is located next to the tank garden was a favorite venue to managed by the Archaeological Survey and bathing in it on special occasions is Golden Temple (Namdroling rejuvenate for the Kings of Kodagu, of India and is considered of historical considered holy. Monastery) and they loved watching the sunsets importance in the country. The Raja's sitting here as they spent some Seat Garden is known for its beautiful Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary Namdroling Monastery, situated at a memorable time with their Queens. seasonal bloom, panoramic view and The Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary distance of 34 km from the Coorg, is the Even today, the breathtaking view of picturesque location making it an apt covers an area of 181 square km and has largest teaching centre of the school of the Sun setting into the undulated attraction for Nature Lovers. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 34 SPORTS FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 Australia confident of hosting Indian cricket team

MELBOURNE (TIP): Australia are a "nine out of 10" chance to host India for a Test series in the home summer and could also tour England for limited overs series EUROPEAN SOCCER'S beforehand, Cricket Australia boss Kevin Roberts said. RETURN TO ACTION AFTER Cricket has been shut down since March due to the novel coronavirus CORONAVIRUS outbreak and while travel curbs remain Australia has begun easing BERN (TIP): Professional soccer leagues around social distancing restrictions after Europe are gearing up for a return to action following infections slowed to a trickle. the novel coronavirus stoppage, but some are more "I guess there’s no such thing as advanced than others. Here is a roundup of the state of certainty in today’s world so I can’t play: say 10 (out of 10), but I’m going to say nine out of 10,” Roberts told a GERMANY roundtable held by Australia's The Bundesliga restarted on May 16 and games were News Corp when asked about the played without fans and with a strict health protocol prospects of India touring. Australia's chances of hosting the media interaction. However, in place.The German Cup semifinals will be played on "I’d be really surprised if we can’t T20 World Cup, scheduled to start in everything hinges on government June 9 and 10, with the final scheduled for July 4. get the Indian tour away. But I October, given the logistical clearance from both sides. wouldn’t, hand on heart, suggest challenge of bringing in 15 teams. The series is being planned to ENGLAND we’ll have full crowds from the "We don’t have clarity on that make up for the cancelled ODI Premier League clubs returned to training on May start." one, yet. But as the situation series between the two teams in 19 after agreeing to allow "small group" sessions to "We’ll just have to wait and see continues to improve, you never India in March, after a washed out begin, with a possible return to normal 'contact' how that goes." know what might be possible," he first ODI. training the week after. Clubs have been informed that Australia had planned to tour said. That both Boards have the same a resumption of matches would see them played only England in July for ODI and T20 "It's ultimately a decision for the broadcaster also augurs well for the at neutral venues that have been approved by health series before the COVID-19 ICC (International Cricket conduct of the series in South and safety standards, but they remain hopeful they pandemic plunged the Council)." Africa. can still find a way to play games on the usual home international schedule into doubt. A BCCI executive confirmed that and away basis. Secretary of state for Digital, Culture, England are looking at hosting India may tour South the Board hopes to get the Media & Sport, Oliver Dowden, on May 14 said the the West Indies and Pakistan in Africa for T20 series government nod. With guidelines government was "opening the door" for football to July and August. for resumption of sports training return in June. Roberts said he had spoken to the Talk that India could mark its having been released, the BCCI’s England and Wales Cricket Board return to international cricket with medical team, in consultation with SPAIN on Wednesday and there was "some a short white-ball series in South the support staff, has started Clubs in Spain's top two divisions returned to chance" Australia could tour Africa in August has been doing the planning for a simulation camp training in groups of up to 10 players on May 18. La England after the West Indies and rounds for more than a month now. starting early June. Liga hopes to resume its season in June. Pakistan tours. On Thursday, Cricket South Africa Meanwhile, Indian Premier "Obviously we won’t jeopardise (CSA) admitted it was discussing a League (IPL) executives are ITALY the safety of the players, but the three-T20I series with the BCCI. understood to have sounded the Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora said the best test of that is that the West “India wants to honour [a prior] franchises out on the likelihood of government would decide on May 28 if and when the Indian and Pakistan tours ... go off agreement. If it’s postponed, maybe the postponed 2020 season being Serie A season can resume. He also announced on May without a hitch," he said. a bit later,” CSA acting CEO staged from late September to early 19 that teams could start full group training Roberts was less optimistic about Jacques Faul said at a virtual November. immediately.

England bowlers to lead the way 15-YEAR-OLD, WHO CYCLED 1,200 KM CARRYING FATHER, as cricketers resume training WILL BE CALLED FOR TRIAL BY CYCLING FEDERATION LONDON(TIP): England bowlers are set to report for NEW DELHI (TIP): The coronavirus lockdown training on Thursday,leading the way as cricket chiefs step up in India has been severe on a lot of people, plans to start a season heavily delayed by the coronavirus especially the ones residing in different states. The pandemic. plight of migrant labourers has dominated social The global health crisis has put matches on hold in England media and headlines for the past month. There was until July 1 at the earliest while in other countries the season one story in the past few days that captured the is already over. imagination of Indians. 15-year-old Jyoti Kumari Despite the pandemic, the England and Wales Cricket Board had to travel 1200 kilometers on a cycle with her (ECB) is still planning to stage a full home international ailing father to take him to his native place. programme, starting with a three-Test series against the West Kumari was residing in Gurugram before the Indies, which was originally scheduled for June. lockdown but had to make the tough decision to The ECB has announced that up to 18 bowlers will be peddle her way to Bihar along with her father due to involved from Thursday. nation-wide lockdown. She reached her destination Edgbaston, Hove, Old Trafford, the Oval, the Riverside, in seven days and it now looks like her sheer Taunton and Trent Bridge will stage at least one session, doggedness has finally been rewarded. before batsmen and wicketkeepers become involved from In what could be a life-changing opportunity, the Jyoti Kumari cycled for 7 days, going almost hungry for June 1. cycling federation will invite 15-year-old Jyoti to two of those, before she reached Bihar. The bowlers' identities have yet to be made public but the appear for a trial next month. choice of venues indicates that James Anderson (Old Cycling Federation of India Chairman Onkar “We spoke to the girl this morning and we have Trafford) and Stuart Broad (Trent Bridge) will be among the Singh told PTI that if Kumari, a class eight student, told her that she will be called to Delhi next month leading England bowlers training at their home county passed the trial, she will be selected as a trainee at as soon as the lockdown is lifted. All the expenses of grounds. Bowlers will have to bring their own kit, including the state-of-the-art National Cycling Academy at the her travel, lodging and other will be borne by us,” designated cricket balls, wash their hands regularly,and clean IGI Stadium complex here. Singh said. any equipment used with disinfectant wipes. The academy,under the aegis of Sports Authority “If she needs to accompany somebody from home, England managing director Ashley Giles said last week he of India, is one of the most advanced facilities in we will also allow that. We will see in consultation wanted the training sessions to be safer than a trip to a Asia and has the recognition of UCI, the world body with our Bihar state unit on how she can be brought supermarket. of the sport. to Delhi for a trial,” he added. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 ADVERTISEMENT 35 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 36 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

CORONAVIRUS HELPLINE Dr. VK Raju and Dr. Leela Raju of the Eye Foundation of America will be glad to answer any eye related concerns of the readers of The Indian Panorama during this difficult period of Coronavirus onslaught

DR. VK RAJU IS A DR. LEELA RAJU IS CLINICAL AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF PROFESSOR OF OPHTHALMOLOGY OPHTHALMOLOGY AT WEST VIRGINIA AT NYU LANGONE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

They can be reached at [email protected]