The Evolution of the Origins and Development of Life on Earth

February 13, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

Have living things always existed in their present form, or did they evolve? And if evolution occurred, was a divine hand at play?

Measuring public opinion on evolution has never been an easy task for survey researchers. With Americans’ views on the topic tapping into the highly charged realms of religious conviction and scientific knowledge, question wording becomes extremely important. For this reason, in recent years, Pew Research Center has experimented with different ways of asking about evolution and studied whether these variations affect the public’s responses. And because they do, the Center is moving toward a revised wording.

First, a bit of survey history: For a decade and a half, the Center asked Americans what they believe about the origins of humankind, most often in a two-step process. An initial question asked respondents whether they think humans and other living things have evolved over time – in line with Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution – or whether they believe humans have existed in their present form since the beginning of time, as in the Book of Genesis’ creation story. Those who said they accept the idea of evolution then have been asked a second question: whether they think evolution has occurred due to natural processes such as natural selection, or due to processes that were guided or allowed by God.

Recently, however, the Center conducted a survey in which respondents were randomly assigned to be asked about evolution in one of two different ways. Half of the respondents were asked about evolution in a two-step process much like the one described above. The other half of respondents were asked a single question about their views on evolution and given three response options: “Humans have evolved over time due to processes such as natural selection; God or a higher power had no role in this process”; “Humans have evolved over time due to processes that were guided or allowed by God or a higher power”; or “Humans have existed in their present form since the beginning of time.”

The data show that respondents in the latter group (those who receive a single question with three options) are more likely than those in the former group to say evolution has occurred. Overall, eight-in-ten in the single-question group say humans have evolved over time (and just 18% say humans have always existed in their present form), while only two-thirds of those who receive the older, two-step approach say humans have evolved (and 31% express the creationist view).

Put more simply, our estimate of the share of Americans who reject evolution and express a creationist view drops considerably (from 31% to 18% of U.S. adults) when respondents are immediately given the opportunity to say God played a role in human evolution. The effect of the different question wording is especially pronounced among white evangelical Protestants and black Protestants.

The experimental findings illustrate why testing multiple ways of asking about evolution is necessary and important. For some people, views about the origins and development of human life are bound up with deeply held religious beliefs. Pew Research Center’s goal in designing questions on this topic is to allow respondents to share their thoughts about both the scientific theory of evolution and God’s role in the creation and development of life on Earth – and to do so in a way that does not force respondents to choose between science and religion. Indeed, the data show that many Americans believe that life on Earth has evolved over time AND that God or a supreme being played some role in the evolutionary process.

In the future, Pew Research Center intends to use this new, three-option approach to asking about evolution in much of its U.S.-based survey research – though the older, two-step approach may continue to work well in certain international contexts (for example, in countries where views about evolution are less closely bound up with religious beliefs than is the case in the U.S.) or for monitoring long-term trends in the United States. The results of the new experiment indicate that there are some people who do believe that humans have evolved over time, but who, for whatever reason, did not say so in our traditional method of asking about the topic. Perhaps without the opportunity to immediately connect evolution to God, some religious respondents may be concerned that expressing belief in evolution places them uncomfortably on the secular side of a cultural divide.

The results of the survey also show that devising survey questions that enable respondents to register nuance in their views about these subjects is very important – and very challenging. Prior to this most recent experiment, the Center tested various versions of the two-step process to asking about evolution. In one line of testing, we varied the survey context (that is, the questions that immediately precede the evolution questions). In another line of testing, we varied whether the questions asked about the evolution of “humans and other living things” or “animals and other living things.”

What follows below is a brief history of the way the Center has asked about evolution.

Testing the effect of asking about belief in God

The first time Pew Research Center asked about evolution, in 2005, the evolution questions were preceded with up to two questions about belief in God. Respondents were asked whether they believe in God, a higher power or universal spirit (but not God), or neither God nor a higher power or universal spirit. Those who said they believe in God or a higher power were asked if they believe that this entity “was responsible for the creation of life on Earth.”

Then, all respondents were asked the following question, which included the wording that would become our core language for evolution questions over the next decade: “Some people think that humans and other living things have evolved over time. Others think that humans and other living things have existed in their present form since the beginning of time. Which of these comes closest to your view?”

If respondents said humans and other livings things have evolved over time, they were asked another question: “And do you think that humans and other living things have evolved due to natural processes such as natural selection, or [do you think that] a supreme being guided the evolution of living things for the purpose of creating humans and other life in the form it exists today?” The latter choice in this question provided what many view as middle ground in the evolution debate, a worldview encompassing both evolution and God, which to some degree aligns with what has been called “intelligent design.”

Why begin a survey module about evolution with questions about belief in God? Researchers were concerned that questions about evolution may have become so caught up in contentious debates about religion, culture and politics that simply asking about evolution outright might lead to erroneous results. Religious people who believe both that evolution has occurred and that God played a role in it might nevertheless – when asked cold – choose the creationist option simply as a way of registering their belief that God exists, and not because they truly reject evolution. Without having first been given the chance to stipulate that they believe God exists and played a role in the creation of life on Earth, some respondents may have seen it as socially undesirable to say they believe humans have evolved over time.

Overall, the 2005 survey found that roughly half of U.S. adults said humans have evolved over time, including 26% who said evolution was due to natural processes, and 18% who said it was guided by a supreme being. Four-in-ten said humans have existed in their present form since the beginning of time, and an additional 10% either were not sure or declined to answer the question.

The following year, the Center again explored people’s views on evolution. The 2006 survey included an experimental test of the premise that asking about belief in God would affect respondents’ answers to the ensuing questions on evolution. Half of the survey’s respondents were randomly assigned to receive the belief-in-God questions before the evolution questions, while the other half of respondents did not receive the belief-in-God questions.

Analysis of the data showed that respondents answered the evolution question series similarly, regardless of whether they were first asked about their belief in God. Since the experimental test showed that asking about belief in God had no impact on the way respondents answer questions about evolution, all Pew Research Center surveys conducted since 2006 have omitted the introductory questions measuring beliefs about God.

Hints of greater acceptance of evolution in 2009; subsequent surveys find stable views after 2009

The Center asked a very similar, two-step battery of evolution questions three years later. The survey results appeared to show an increase of 10 percentage points in the share of Americans who say they believe evolution has occurred, from 51% in 2006 to 61% in 2009. However, researchers were concerned that responses to the 2009 question may have been influenced by the fact that the entire 2009 survey was about scientific topics.

Specifically, people who are most interested in scientific topics may have been more likely to participate in the survey. Such individuals may also believe in evolution at higher rates than those who are not so interested in scientific topics, thus inflating the survey’s estimate of the share of the public that believes evolution has occurred.

It is also possible that a slight change to the wording of the question between 2006 and 2009 could have affected the results. In 2005 and 2006, the first question in the series read as follows: “Some people think that humans and other living things have evolved over time. Others think that humans and other living things have existed in their present form since the beginning of time. Which of these comes closest to your view?” Beginning in 2009, the question was simplified to ask “Which comes closer to your view? Humans and other living things have evolved over time, OR humans and other living things have existed in their present form since the beginning of time.”1 The original wording may have lent equal legitimacy to both viewpoints by telling respondents that there are people on both sides of the debate; this may have nudged some to the creationist response.

As a result of the different survey context and the slight change in question wording, Pew Research Center did not report the 2009 results as the continuation of a trend that began in 2005. Instead, the earlier results were included alongside the 2009 findings only as a “trend for comparison” – as an indication that there may have been some change in sentiment between 2006 and 2009, but without making a direct, apples-to-apples estimate of the magnitude of the change.

Between 2013 and 2014, Pew Research Center asked the two-step evolution question series four more times. On all four occasions, the share of those who said they believe humans have evolved over time fell between 60% and 65%.

Belief in evolution among religious and demographic groups

In the 2014 U.S. Religious Landscape Study (the last telephone survey in which the Center asked the traditional, two-step series of questions about evolution), the data show that belief in evolution is more common among college graduates (73%) than among those with lower levels of educational attainment (62% among those with some college education, 53% among those with a high school diploma or less education). Belief in evolution is also more prevalent among young people (72% among adults under the age of 30) than among older adults (52% among those ages 65 and older), and somewhat more common among men than women (65% vs. 58%).

Among religious groups, belief in evolution peaks among self-described atheists (95% of whom say they believe humans and other living things have evolved over time) and agnostics (96%). Roughly eight-in-ten or more Buddhists (86%), Jews (81%) and Hindus (80%) also say they believe in evolution, as do smaller majorities of Catholics (66%) and mainline Protestants (65%) – though members of these Christian traditions are much more likely than religiously unaffiliated people and members of most non-Christian faiths to say they believe God played a role in guiding the evolutionary process.

Among members of evangelical Protestant denominations, the balance of opinion leans in the opposite direction – 57% of evangelicals said in the 2014 telephone survey that humans and other living things have existed in their present form since the beginning of time, compared with 38% who said they believe humans have evolved over time. And members of historically black Protestant denominations were divided about evenly between those who believe in evolution (50%) and those who do not (45%). Statistical analysis shows that evangelicals and people who belong to historically black Protestant denominations are less likely than those in many other religious groups to believe in evolution even after accounting for different levels of educational attainment.

As noted at the outset of this report, our recent experiment found that including an immediate option to link God to evolution makes a substantial difference in the responses given by white evangelicals and black Protestants. For details, see “How highly religious Americans view evolution depends on how they’re asked about it.”

Testing beliefs about the evolution of humans vs. the evolution of animals

In 2013, Pew Research Center experimented with the wording of the standard question about evolution. A random group of respondents was asked about the evolution of “humans and other living things,” while other respondents were asked about the evolution of “animals and other living things.”

The survey found that white evangelical Protestants were more likely to say animals and other living things have evolved over time (41%) than they were to say the same about humans (27%). Among white mainline Protestants, the opposite was true: More said humans evolved (78%) than animals (66%). The experiment found no significant differences in the way black Protestants, Catholics and religiously unaffiliated respondents answered the questions.

Concluding observations

Taken together, the findings presented here show that asking questions about the origin and development of life on Earth can be a complicated undertaking – perhaps especially in a country like the United States, where the public’s attitudes about the scientific theory of evolution often are bound up with their religious convictions. What may seem like small differences in question wording can have a major impact on survey estimates of the share of the public that believes in a naturalistic account of human development, a creationist view or something in between – an evolutionary process guided or at least allowed by God or a supreme being. Pew Research Center has been committed to innovation on these kinds of questions to try to capture public opinion in its full complexity, and the Center will continue to experiment and report the results transparently.

Smartphone Ownership Is Growing Rapidly Around the World, but Not Always Equally In emerging economies, technology use still much more common among young people and the well-educated

February 13, 2019 Staff ReporterBusiness, Community, Finance/Economy, Science & Technology 0

Mobile technology has spread rapidly around the globe. Today, it is estimated that more than 5 billion people have mobile devices, and over half of these connections are smartphones. But the growth in mobile technology to date has not been equal, either across nations or within them. People in advanced economies are more likely to have mobile phones – smartphones in particular – and are more likely to use the internet and social media than people in emerging economies. For example, a median of 76% across 18 advanced economies surveyed have smartphones, compared with a median of only 45% in emerging economies.

Countries are grouped into two economic categories, “advanced” and “emerging,” based on multiple sources and criteria, including: World Bank income classifications; per capita gross domestic product (PPP); total size of the country’s economy, as measured by GDP; and average GDP growth rate between 2013 and 2017. For more information, see Appendix A.

Smartphone ownership can vary widely by country, even across advanced economies. While around nine-in-ten or more South Koreans, Israelis and Dutch people own smartphones, ownership rates are closer to six-in-ten in other developed nations like Poland, Russia and Greece. In emerging economies, too, smartphone ownership rates vary substantially, from highs of 60% in South Africa and Brazil to just around four-in-ten in Indonesia, Kenya and Nigeria. Among the surveyed countries, ownership is lowest in India, where only 24% report having a smartphone.

Whether in advanced or emerging economies, younger people, those with higher levels of education and those with higher incomes are more likely to be digitally connected.1 2 Younger people in every country surveyed are much more likely to have smartphones, access the internet and use social media. In all of the advanced economies surveyed, large majorities under the age of 35 own a smartphone. In contrast, smartphone ownership among advanced economies’ older populations varies widely, ranging from just about a quarter of Russians 50 and older to about nine-in-ten older South Koreans.

However, in many of these advanced economies, the age gap in smartphone ownership has been closing since 2015. Two factors may contribute to this narrowing gap: First, those under 35 were already very likely to own smartphones when asked in 2015, presenting a “ceiling” of sorts. Second, the older age group appears to be steadily adopting smartphone technology. For example, nine-in-ten or more Americans ages 34 and under have had a smartphone since 2015, while the ownership rate among the 50-and-older age group has risen from 53% to 67% over the same period.

In most emerging economies, however, patterns of smartphone ownership look quite different. In these countries, ownership rates across all age groups tend to be lower than those seen in advanced economies. For example, while majorities of adults ages 50 and older own smartphones in many advanced economies, in no emerging economy surveyed do smartphone ownership rates among this older group rise above 35%.

Further, in most emerging economies, the age gap in smartphone ownership has been growing in recent years. Although the older age group is more likely to have phones now than they were a few years ago, the rate of adoption has been much faster among the younger age group. In the Philippines, for example, those 34 and under are 47 percentage points more likely to have a smartphone today than those ages 50 and older – compared with a gap of only 23 percentage points in 2015.

Education and income level also play sizable roles when it comes to explaining differences in technological use in most countries. In every country surveyed, better-educated and higher-income people are more likely to use the internet than people with lower levels of education or income. And in nearly every country, the same is true of social media use. The education gaps in emerging economies are especially wide. For example, a majority of Nigerians with a secondary education or more use social media (58%) compared with just 10% of Nigerians with less education, for a gap of 48 percentage points. The education gap in internet use is an even wider 53 points: 65% of more-educated Nigerians use the internet compared with just 12% of those with lower levels of education.

In contrast, gender plays only a limited role in explaining differences in technological use in most countries. Whether in advanced or emerging economies, men and women generally use technology – including smartphones, the internet and social media – at similar rates. For example, the gender gap in smartphone ownership is usually in the mid-single digits, where gaps exist at all. In Japan, for instance, 69% of men own smartphones compared with 63% of women. And, in most countries, men and women have largely obtained smartphones at similar rates in recent years, meaning that the gender gap in usage has remained constant. In Brazil, for example, while 38% of women and 43% of men owned smartphones in 2015, today 57% of women and 63% own them – a nearly identical gap at both points in time.

The notable exception to this pattern is India, where men (34%) are much more likely than women (15%) to own smartphones – a gap of 19 percentage points. And India’s gender gap is growing: Today’s gap is 10 points wider than it was just five years ago (then, 16% of men and 7% of women owned smartphones). These are among the major findings from a Pew Research Center survey conducted among 30,133 people in 27 countries from May 14 to Aug. 12, 2018.

Registration opens for AAPI’s 37th annual Convention in Atlanta Over 2,500 delegates expected to attend Convention in Atlanta, GA from July 3 to 7, 2019

February 13, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Education, Health, Science & Technology 0

(Atlanta, GA: February 9, 2019): Registration for the historic 37^th annual convention by American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) to be held at the Omni Atlanta at CNN Center and Georgia World Congress Centre (GWCC) in Atlanta from July 3 to 7, 2019 has begun since February 1st.

“We are excited about the enthusiasm shown by the AAPI members from across the nation,” says Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI. “Over 2,500 attendees, delegates including Physicians, Academicians, Researchers and Medical students, along with guests are expected to gather at the 37th Annual AAPI Convention in Atlanta, GA.”

“With the Early Bird Special Registration for the convention to end on April 1^st, we are seeing an increased interest among AAPI members to secure their seat at the convention,” says, Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Vice Chair of AAPI BOT and Convention Chair. Early Bird Registration fee for the delegates will be $100 less than the regular rates, says Dr. Gangasani. Also, one gets to pick your own choice of seats at the Galas as soon as you register for the convention. The sooner you register the better the chances for getting the seats of your own choice with the ability to sit closer to the podium and with your friends/families.

Being organized by Georgia Chapter of AAPI, the convention offers unique opportunities for

extensive academic presentations, recognition of achievements and achievers, and professional networking at the alumni and evening social events.

A dedicated pool of Physicians, led by Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice President, AAPI; Dr. Syamala Erramilli, President of GAPI; Dr. Asha Parikh, Chair of GAPI BOT; Convention Co-chairs: Dr. Raghu Lolabattu, Dr. Piyush Patel, Dr. Subodh Agrawal and several Convention Team members, are working hard to make the convention a memorable experience for all.

In addition to offering over 12 hours of cutting edge CMEs to the physicians, the event will have several hours of product theaters/promotional opportunities, plenary sessions, CEOs Forum, and a women’s leadership forum. The convention will be addressed by senior world leaders, and celebrities from the Hollywood and Bollywood world.

The AAPI Atlanta Convention is where sponsors and advertisers can reach their target audience of over two thousand under one roof. The convention offers a variety of ways to reach physicians and their families. It provides access to nearly 2,500 health professionals who are leaders and decision-makers regarding new products and services, as wells as to national and international health policy advisors.

The venue is the fabulous Omni Atlanta at CNN Center and Georgia World Congress Center. This world-class facility will afford an intimate setting that will facilitate our ability to convoy cutting-edge research and CME, promote business relationships, and display ethnic items.

“Exhibitors and Corporate Partners remain our priority as we work together to provide a world-class forum for increased interactions between physicians, sponsors, exhibitors, and all other attendees,” says Dr. Syamala Erramilli.

Dr. Asha Parikh adds, “The unique layout of the Exhibit Hall will promote positive discourse between all and various planned activities will ensure their visitation to the Exhibit Hall and maximize attendance. The ease with which members and attendees can move between the Exhibit Hall, conference and ballrooms, and their hotel rooms will ensure maximum attendance and visibility for Sponsors and Exhibitors.”

Dr. Raghu Lolabattu says, “Given that a physician of Indian origin sees every 7th patient in this country and every 5th patient in rural and inner city Georgia, the reach and influence of AAPI members goes well beyond the convention. Urging all corporate and local sponsors not to miss the opportunity, Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect of AAPI, says, “Take advantage of our sponsorship packages at the 37th Annual AAPI convention to create high-powered exposure to the highly coveted demographic of AAPI’s membership.”

“AAPI offers customized and exclusive sponsorship packages to meet your needs. These can include keynote speaker opportunities (non-CME), awards and recognition at breakfast, lunch and dinner, roundtable meetings with AAPI leadership, premium exhibit booth selection, etc,” Dr. Piyush Patel. “We also offer corporate identity packages that utilize our registration area, Internet kiosks, plasma display panels, the souvenir book, and audiovisual screens during CME hours and events to display your company name,” Dr. Subodh Agrawal.

“We have convened a fantastic group of people to meet the needs of the 2019 convention and are very excited about next year. Please reach out to any one of the representatives from the Atlanta team with questions or comments,” Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda. “They are flexible and can accommodate specific products, services, target market goals, brand requirements, and budgetary limits. If the packages below do not meet your needs, please contact us, and we will create a package that will!”

Representing the interests of the over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin, leaders of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the largest ethnic organization of physicians, for 37 years, AAPI Convention has provided a venue for medical education programs and symposia with world renowned physicians on the cutting edge of medicine, says Dr. Subodh Agrawal.

“The 2019 AAPI Annual Convention & Scientific Assembly offers an exciting venue to interact with leading physicians, health professionals, academicians, and scientists of Indian origin. Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country will convene and participate in the scholarly exchange of medical advances, to develop health policy agendas, and to encourage legislative priorities in the coming year. We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta, GA!” says Dr. Naresh Parekh.

For more details, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit: www.aapiconvention.org and www.aapiusa.org

AAPI’s 13th Global Healthcare Summit will feature CPR Trainings to Prevent Accidental Deaths in India

February 13, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Health, India 0

(Chicago, IL. February 12, 2019) “Among the many other initiatives, a major theme and focus of the 13th annual Global Healthcare Summit to be held from July 21st -24th 2019, Hyderabad, India, organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) in collaboration with Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO), will be the much needed CPR Training,” declared Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect and Chairman of the GHS 2019.

Dr. Reddy will assume charge as the new president during AAPI’s annual convention in Atlanta over the July 4th weekend. He says that the GHS 2019 will focus on preventive health, targeting rural health, women’s health, and provide special CPR training, that will equip First Responders to help save lives.

“It is the passion, willingness and staunch loyalty towards the former motherland that draws several AAPI members to join this effort & by working with experts in India, AAPI is able to bring solutions that are India centric & takes us closer to our lofty vision of making quality healthcare affordable & accessible to all people of India,” says Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI.

With more than 1.2 billion people, India is estimated to account for 60 per cent of patients with heart diseases. According to the World Health Organization, heart related disorders kills almost 20 million people annually, and they are exceptionally prevalent in the sub-Indian continent. Half of all heart attacks in this population occur under the age of 50 years and 25 percent under the age of 40. It is estimated that India is estimated to have over 1.6 million strokes per year, resulting in disabilities on one third of them. Although there is some level of awareness regarding smoking, dietary habits and diabetes, somehow there is no massive intervention on a national level either by the government or by the physicians.

While coronary artery disease (CAD) tends to occur earlier in life and in a higher percentage of the population in Asian Indians than in other ethnic groups, it has been found that American Southeast Asian Indians typically develop a heart attack 10 years earlier than other populations. Studies also have found that heart disease among Indians is more severe, diffuse, and more likely to be multi-vessel compared to whites despite their younger age, smoking less, and lower rates of hypertension.

India has one of the highest accident rates leading to trauma and head injury. AAPI, in collaboration with leading healthcare institutions in India and the Indian Ministry of Health has embarked on a long-term project to create awareness on the need to prevent, treat, and provide special care and rehab services to those involved in accidents.

“In this context, AAPI’s initiative to educate and prevent deaths by accidents and chronic heart problems is very significant,” says Dr. Sanku Rao Chief Advisor of the GHS 2019. To be presented by leading global healthcare leaders and professionals, the day-long Advanced Resuscitation (Post-Cardiac Arrest) Workshop in collaboration with The Chicago Medical Society will be held at the Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India on July 22, 2019, Dr. Rao adds.

Dr. Dwarkanatha Reddy, Convener of says, “AAPI has been in the forefront in addressing the accidental deaths, by collaborating with the American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine, and the American Heart Association, with workshop/training (EMTC) trainings to hundreds of first responders, including police, para-medical professional at every GHS in recent years.”

The trainings are aimed at decreasing the number of deaths, especially from road accidents by enabling the first responders to provide life support to victims of accidents. The training, which includes CPI and other medical services are being provided by professional trainers from the US and is being offered to personnel from Police, Traffic Police, and other healthcare professionals from the state.

Dr. Vemuri S. Murthy, MD, MS, FAHA, FICS, Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA, and a team including, Dr. Radhika Chimata, Dr. Srinivas Ramaka, Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, and Dr. K. Manohar will be the lead speakers.

Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, MD, is a Faculty Co-Chair, Pediatric Anesthesiologist, is based in San Antonio, Texas. She currently serves as the Secretary, AAPI & Member, AAPI Global CPR Ad-Hoc Committee. Dr. Ashima Sharma, MD, DA, is the Coordinator at Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, and serves as the Head, Department of Emergency Medicine, Nizam’sInstitute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.

Dr. Murthy says, “The AAPI Resuscitation Workshop 2019 is designed, incorporating the basic and advanced Resuscitation Science (Post-Cardiac Arrest) information including global 2018 updates. The workshop focuses on Indian resuscitation projects to enhance outcomes after sudden cardiac arrests.”

According to Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, the workshop will be an effective way “To share information about recent global advances in Adult and Pediatric Resuscitation; and, to share information about the role of simulation technology in resuscitation training (includes a simulation session).”

The workshop is eligible for AMA PRA Cat. 1 CME Credit for 4.5 Hours (for US Physician Registrants): To be approved by the Chicago Medical Society, Chicago, Illinois, USA. All program registrants will receive Resuscitation Workshop Attendance Certificates from AAPI. Registration is open on a first-come first-served basis. No admittance to the workshop without registration. No on-site registration.

In addition to Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, there will be day long concurrent CPR Trainings at the Bharatiya Vidhya Bhavan and Indian Police Academy from 8 am to 1 pm on July 22nd.

Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice President of AAPI, says, “The growing clout of the physicians of Indian origin in the United States is seen everywhere as several physicians of Indian origin hold critical positions in the healthcare, academic, research and administrative positions across the nation. Indian doctors have carved a comfortable niche in the American medical community and have earned a name for themselves with their hard work, dedication, compassion, and amazing skills and talents.”

Representing the voice of the over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin, AAPI, the largest ethnic organization of physicians, has been strategically engaged in working with the Union and State Governments of India for the past ten years and has collaborated with more than 35 professional medical associations, pharmaceutical and medical device companies to address the health care challenges of a rapidly developing India.

“With the changing trends and statistics in healthcare, both in India and US, we are refocusing our mission and vision, AAPI would like to make a positive meaningful impact on the healthcare delivery system both in the US and in India,” Dr. Suresh Reddy said. For more information on Global Health Summit 2019, please visit www.aapiusa.org

AAPI to Organize 9-City Jai Ho Musical Dhamaka by Bollywood Singer Sukhwinder Singh, accompanied by Ms. Amruta Fadnavis in May 2019

February 6, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Education, Entertainment 0

(Chicago, IL. February 4, 2019) After mesmerizing musical lovers all across the world with his enchanting voice, Sukhwinder Singh, a top Bollywood singer, accompanied by the first lady of Maharashtra, Ms. Amruta Fadnavis, is now on AAPI’s Nine-City Jai Ho Musical Dhamaka this spring, performing in Nine Cities around the United States.

Organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian origin (AAPI), the spectacular musical program combined with educational and networking opportunities for AAPI members, supporters and sponsors, is being organized with the objective of bringing CME and non-CME sponsored medical lectures, exhibits, Gala Dinner, community outreach talks and lively musical nite in each of the 9 cities across the country.

“Following the past successes of multi-city musical tours organized by AAPI, I am inspired by the concept and how such events have helped in strengthening the relationship between the AAPI Chapters and national office, in addition to help raise funds for the many noble programs for AAPI and the local Chapters” says Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI.

Dr. Hemant Dhingra, Entertainment Chair of AAPI provided a detailed description of the planned 9-City Tour by popular Bollywood star, Sukhvinder, which is a way to raise funds for AAPI and its many local Chapters. Dr. Dhingra, who has close relationship with the Entertainment Industry, worked with Sukhwinder Singh and team to put together the mega event.

The 9 city musical and educational tour is being launched on Friday, May 10 Columbus, Ohio and will be followed by Atlanta on May 11th and in Washington DC on May 12th. Sukhvinder and his team will perform in Charlotte, NC on May 17th, in New Jersey on May 18th and in Dallas, TX on May 19th. In the final weekend, the popular artist will begin his tour in Milwaukee, WI on May 24th, in San Jose, CA on May 25th and the grand finale will be in Hollywood City, Los Angeles on May 26th.

“A major objective of this program is to bring together various local Chapters, says Dr. Parikh. “National coordinators of the program, Drs. Narendra Kumar. Hemant Dhingra, Raj Bhayani. Amit Chkrabarty, Anjana Samadder, and Gautam Samaddar, as well as and the entire AAPI team and leadership enthusiastically received this idea and the net result of our collaboration and dialogue is the 9-city grand mega concert.”

Senior leadership and several past Presidents and leaders of AAPI have extended their whole-hearted support in organizing this mega event across the nation, Dr. Parikh says. “I am sincerely grateful to Dr. Narendra Kumar, Dr. Sanku Rao, Dr. Vinod Shah, Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Dr. Ajay Lodha, Dr. Jayesh Shah, Dr. Vijay Koli, Mr. Anwar Feroz Siddiqi and all past Presidents of AAPI for their senior advisory role in making this mega event a grand success.”

Anwar Feroz Siddiqi, Chief Strategy Adviser says, “We are now poised to take our commitment to newer heights, the 9 City Musical Tour by world renowned Bollywood artist Sukwinder accompanied by an icon of women leadership, the first lady of Maharashtra, Ms. Amruta Fadnavis, a very well know personality, a great singer and amazing community leader that continues to pursue her career with her spouse being in the most powerful office in Maharashtra, a true demonstration of great leadership.” Coupled with three honorable causes addressing cardiovascular disease, lymphoma and leukemia, this is truly a worthy and honorable effort that enhances AAPI’s commitment to major health issues and its strong support to eradicate them.

“Entertainment was only just one component of the entire program,” Dr. Parikh adds. “The idea is to put together mini seminars, networking and strengthening the relationship between members and the national office. “Due to popular demand from several physicians on the need for enhancing scientific component at AAPI meetings and allowing greater number of members to participate, AAPI is now organizing the 13-city programs to make it easy for physicians to participate locally avoiding extensive travel and time away from practice,” he explains.

“Many of our industry partners liked this concept where they could get prime time with a few hundred doctors in each location for product promotion/theater, non CME lectures, exhibits, booths,” Dr. Narendra Kumar, national coordinator of the event, says. “These multi-city mini-seminars are a novel concept for education and recreation that will raise funds for the local chapters of AAPI, the national AAPI and the AAPI Charitable Foundation.”

Describing the process leading to the Tour, Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect of AAPI, recalls, “Realizing that it takes a lot of coordination and tremendous effort, we were successful in involving dozens of AAPI office-bearers of various Chapters and Executive Committee members. Each of them is committed to work hard, coordinate with the local leadership, while committing to have the funds raised would be given to AAPI, the local Chapters, and the many philanthropic endeavors organized by AAPI and its Charitable Foundation.”

AAPI has established itself as the most successful and premiere ethnic medical organization in the United States. AAPI-Charitable Foundation, the crest jewel of AAPI, is committed to serve the poorest of the poor in remote areas of India and USA.

Since 1992, the Foundation has been providing an infrastructure support system for needy patients in India with two main goals: enabling AAPI members to commit their time and resources to support the clinics for the indigent; and to monitor effectively the clinics’ progress and be accountable for the overall success of the project.

The Seminars, CMEs, and workshops will be led by accomplished faculty of leading Physicians, Industry Leaders, Cardiologists, Cardiovascular Surgeons and Psychiatrists. Each of the nine medical educational programs is expected to have an audience of 250-400 Physicians, which will be followed by an annual gala event and entertainment with an expected 2,500+ audience at each location.

Sukhwinder Singh, an internationally recognized Bollywood playback artist, best known for singing “Chaiyya,” for which he won the Best Male Playback Award at the 1999 Filmfare Awards, in association with composer A.R. Rahman has resulted in numerous hit songs. The list includes Chaiyya from Dil Se, Ramta Jogi, Ni Main Samajh Gayee, Taal Se Taal Mila and Nahin Samne from Taal, Ruth Aa Gayee Re, Raat Ki Daldal Hain and Yeh Jo Zindagi Hain from Earth, Jaane Tu Mera Kya Hai from Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na, Aayo Re Sakhi, Bhangari Morori and Piya Ho from Water, Chinnamma Chilakkamma from Meenaxi, Thok De Killi from Raavan and the most popular Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire.

The song “Jai Ho”, sung by Singh, composed by A.R. Rahman and written by Gulzar, was nominated as a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Song and won an Oscar Academy Award for Best Original Song. It also won the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media in 2010.

Proceeds from the 9-city tour will support some of the noble initiatives of AAPI, says, Dr. Parikh. “We are requesting all AAPI members, all doctors of Indian origin, all south Asians to rally and support this amazing opportunity of the 9-city musical tour to promote awareness and raise funds for supporting programs to address the rapidly growing problem of cardiovascular diseases in south Asians and minorities living in the United States and Lymphoma & Leukemia in India.’

Ms. Amruta Fadnavis was born, as Amruta Ranade on 9 April 1979 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, to Dr. Sharad Ranade, an Ophthalmologist and Dr. Charulata Ranade, a Gynaecologist. She grew up in a household where education and independence for women was essential. She initially studied at St. Joseph Convent School, Nagpur. She graduated from G.S. College of Commerce and Economics. Later she pursued MBA in finance and studied taxation laws from Symbiosis Law School, Pune. Along with studies she also participated in sports and an excellent sports person. She was a state level under 16 tennis player.

Dr. Parikh promises to “make this event both transparent and successful, and we hope it becomes an annual event. Many of our industry partners have also shown great interest in this concept, where they can receive prime time with a few hundred doctors for product promotion, theater, non-CME lectures, exhibits and booths. Because of this, we hope to have a significant number of national sponsors for this program.”

This extensive Musical/Educational Tour program put together by Dr. Parikh and his Team is a step towards reaching the message of AAPI across the globe and help AAPI realize its noble mission. “I am calling on all AAPI members, all doctors of Indian origin, all South Asians to rally and support an amazing opportunity of the 9-city musical tour to promote awareness and raise funds for supporting essential programs to address the rapidly growing problem of cardiovascular diseases in South Asians and minorities living in the United States and Lymphoma & Leukemia in India.” For more details on the Musical Tour and for sponsorship opportunities, please visit: http://www.aapiusa.org/ https://www.aapievents.com/

In Abu Dhabi, Pope Francis Reminds Faithful They are Blessed

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

You are blessed. This was the simple but profound message Pope Francis brought to a crowd of some 180,000 on February 5, 2019, in his homily at Mass in Zayed Sports City in the kingdom of Abu Dhabi. It was a mostly expat crowd with workers in the United Arab Emirates hailing from more than 100 foreign countries. And it was an enthusiastic crowd.

“Blessed: this is the word with which Jesus begins his preaching in Matthew’s Gospel. And it is the refrain he repeats today, as if to fix in our hearts, more than anything, an essential message: if you are with Jesus, if you love to listen to his word as the disciples of that time did, if you try to live out this word every day, then you are blessed,” the Pope proclaimed. “Not you will be blessed, but you are blessed; this is the first truth we know about the Christian life. It is not simply a list of external prescriptions to fulfill or a set of teachings to know.

“The Christian life, first and foremost, is not this; rather, it is the knowledge that, in Jesus, we are the Father’s beloved children. The Christian life means living out the joy of this blessedness, wanting to live life as a love story, the story of God’s faithful love, he who never abandons us and wishes to be in communion with us always.”

The Holy Father reminded the faithful present that the joy of being a Christian cannot be taken from us, no matter what our circumstances. He cited the Beatitudes, in which those called blessed are not the rich and powerful but the poor, the meek, and those who are persecuted.

This is the reason for our joy, a joy that no one in the world and no circumstance in our lives can take from us. It is a joy that gives peace also in the midst of pain, a joy that already makes us participate in that eternal happiness which awaits us. Dear brothers and sisters, in the joy of meeting you, this is the word I have come to say to you: blessed!

“Who is correct here: Jesus or the world?” the Pope asked. And he answered: “To understand this, let us look at how Jesus lived: poor in respect to things, but wealthy in love; he healed so many lives but did not spare his own. He came to serve and not to be served; he taught us that greatness is not found in having but rather in giving.”

The Holy Father noted that “living out the Beatitudes does not require dramatic gestures.” He pointed out that Jesus left nothing written, built nothing imposing, and didn’t ask his followers to build great works or draw attention to themselves. He said those who follow the Beatitudes are the meek and those who are peacemakers.

“The Beatitudes are not for supermen, but for those who face up to the challenges and trials of each day,” Francis explained. “Those who live out the Beatitudes according to Jesus are able to cleanse the world. They are like a tree that even in the wasteland absorbs polluted air each day and gives back oxygen. It is my hope that you will be like this, rooted in Christ, in Jesus and ready to do good to those around you. May your communities be oases of peace.”

Pope Francis arrived at the Presidential Airport of Abu Dhabi where the farewell ceremony took place prior to leaving the United Arab Emirates. Upon arrival, the Pope was received by the Crown Prince, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Holy Father and the Crown Prince were then greeted by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin; Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches; Cardinal Fernando Filoni, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples; H.E. Msgr. Edgar Peña Parra, substitute of the Secretariat of State; H.E. Msgr. Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixot, M.C.C.J., secretary of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue; the United Arab Emirates delegation and local dignitaries. Pope Francis then boarded an Etihad B787 to return to Italy.

On Tuesday, the last day of his 40-hour visit to the United Arab Emirates, Pope Francis came to speak to them directly. “I have goose bumps,” said Khristina Garcia, a 32-year-old emergency room nurse from the Philippines who has lived in Abu Dhabi for five years. She was one of the roughly 135,000 Catholics, many of whom had received a state-sanctioned day off work, who filled the stands and surrounded Zayed Sports City Stadium on a warm and bright Tuesday afternoon. “I feel blessed,” she said.

The Mass, which was also attended by 4,000 Muslims in keeping with the visit’s emphasis on interreligious dialogue, was the largest public celebration of a Christian rite in the history of the Muslim country, where the worship of other faiths is tolerated, but only in private under normal circumstances.

Inside the stadium, tens of thousands of faithful clad in white hats bearing the trip’s emblem of a dove applauded as Francis rode around in his Popemobile.

The crowd at the Mass represented the asylum seekers and economic migrants Francis has spent years defending, but with a twist. “It is most certainly not easy for you to live far from home, missing the affection of your loved ones, and perhaps also feeling uncertainty about the future,” Francis said in his homily, which he delivered in Italian. “But the Lord is faithful and does not abandon his people.”

He sought to encourage the Christians here in their lives and faith, assuring them that if they continued on, the Lord would provide a way forward. “He can even open paths in the desert,” the pope said.

Trump sees Kamala Harris as most credible opponent for US President “Kamala Harris, Call-Out Star: The toughest progressive we’ve seen in a long time,” David Brooks

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Politics 0

President Trump has called Indian-American Senator Kamala Harris, the Democratic Senator from California, the most credible candidate for President among the slew of Democrats rearing to face off against him in 2020. Asked in a New York Times interview on Feb. 1, who he thought was the “toughest” Democratic candidate so far, the President responded, “I would say, the best opening so far would be Kamala Harris. I would say, in terms of the opening act, I would say, would be her.”

What stood out about her, he indicated, was the announcement she made in Oakland, California Jan. 27, where a estimated crowd of more than 20,000 people came to cheer on her candidacy. “A better crowd — better crowd, better enthusiasm. Some of the others were very flat,” the President said, about that “opening act.” He criticized Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who he contended, had “been hurt very badly with the Pocahontas trap.” Over the year, President Trump has referred to Sen. Warren as Pocahontas, based on her claims she had some Native American ancestry.

Meanwhile, David Brooks, the Right Leaning NY Times Columnist, has described Kamala Harris as: “The more you learn about Kamala Harris, the more formidable she appears. She is an amazing amalgam of different elements — highly educated elite meritocrat, Oakland street fighter, crusading, rough-elbow prosecutor, canny machine pol and telegenic rhetorical brawler. She is also probably the toughest and most hard-nosed progressive on the scene right now.”

“Democratic primary voters may decide that if they are going to take on Donald Trump, they’re going to want the roughest, most confrontational gladiator they can get. After they see how, well, direct she can be, they may decide that person is Kamala Harris,” Brooks opined.

In her memoir, “The Truths We Hold,” she describes her political campaigns as a series of hard-fought battles against tough foes. She ran for San Francisco district attorney against her former boss, whose nickname was Kayo (pronounced “K.O.”), for all the people he knocked out. But she beat him.

Some Republicans see Harris as the more moderate candidate in what they claim is a increasingly left-leaning Democratic Party. Harris record as a District Attorney and then Attorney General in California, has opened her criminal justice record for examination.

Harris’ website also uses similar terminology – “Tough Principled Fearless” to describe her. On her website kamalaharris.org, she dwells on her African American ancestry, noting that she was the second African American in history to be elected to the U.S. Senate and the first African Amerivan and first woman to serve as Attorney General of the state of California. Though her mother was Indian, there is no mention of the fact, that she is the first Indian-American to be a District Attorney in California, the first to be AG of that state, and later the first Indian-American ever to be elected to the Senate.

“To beat Trump, I suspect Democrats will want unity,” David Brooks wrote in his column in the NYT. “They won’t want somebody who essentially runs against the Democratic establishment (Bernie Sanders); they’ll want somebody who embodies it (Harris). They’ll want somebody who seems able to pulverize Trump in a debate (Harris).”

State of the Union 2019: How Americans see major national issues

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Politics, U.S. 0

President Donald Trump’s State of the Union speech, after weeks of delay, amid a debate between Trump and congressional Democrats over border security and expanding the border wall – one that recently led to the longest federal government shutdown in history.

As per Pew Research, here’s a look at public opinion on important issues facing the country, drawn from Pew Research Center’s recent surveys.

The U.S.-Mexico border wall. A majority of Americans continue to oppose substantially expanding the wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Republican support for the wall is at a record high and Democratic support is at a new low.
Immigration. A majority of Americans say they are not too or not at all confident in Trump’s ability to make wise decisions about immigration policy. Still, around half of U.S. adults say immigration should be a top priority for Trump and Congress this year.
Partisan cooperation. Most Americans said in a November survey that they’d like to see cooperation between Trump and Congress. Yet more recently, seven-in-ten Democrats say Democratic leaders should stand up to Trump on certain issues, even if less gets done in Washington; Republicans are more divided on whether or not Trump should stand up to Democrats and risk disappointing his supporters. Americans are deeply pessimistic about chances that partisan cooperation will improve in the coming year.
Mueller investigation. A majority of Americans say they are confident that special counsel Robert Mueller is conducting a fair investigation into Russian involvement in the 2016 election. There is less public confidence in Trump on the issue. Views of the investigation and Trump’s handling of the matter remain deeply divided by party.
Tariffs and trade. Americans’ views of recent tariffs between the United States and some of its trading partners tilt more negative than positive, according to a summer 2018 survey. About half of Americans are confident in Trump’s ability to negotiate favorable trade agreements with other countries.
The economy. Strengthening the economy continues to rank as a top issue for the public overall, as well as for majorities in both parties. About half of Americans are at least somewhat confident in Trump’s ability to make good decisions about economic policy.
Foreign policy. A majority of Americans say terrorism should be a top priority this year, though this differs greatly by party. Looking at foreign conflicts, the U.S. public is divided over withdrawing U.S. troops from Syria, and many do not think Trump has a clear plan for dealing with the situation there.
Climate change. Democrats are much more likely than Republicans to say protecting the environment and global climate change should be top priorities for the president and Congress this year.
Health care. About seven-in-ten Americans say reducing health care costs should be a top policy priority, including majorities in both parties.
Race relations. This year, 46% of Americans say addressing race relations should be a top priority for Trump and Congress. This includes a majority of Democrats but only a third of Republicans.
Gender issues. Registered voters who supported Democratic candidates in 2018 were much more likely than those supporting Republicans to say sexism is a very big problem in the country, according to a fall 2018 survey. This party divide was wider than the gender gap in views of whether sexism is a serious problem. There are also party gaps in views of gender and leadership, according to a separate survey.

As Treaties Collapse, Can We Still Prevent a Nuclear Arms Race?

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Politics 0

The United States last week officially announced it is walking away from the Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, an agreement made between the USA and the Soviet Union in 1987 to eliminate a whole class of nuclear weapons that had been deployed in Europe and had put the continent on a trip-wire to nuclear war.

This follows US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), an agreement which currently prevents Iran from building or acquiring nuclear weapons.

Meanwhile the START treaty, which limits the number of US and Russian strategic nuclear weapons, is set to expire soon, with no renewal in sight.

The Trump administration said that it was suspending one of the last major nuclear arms control treaties with Russia, following five years of heated conversations over accusations by the United States that Moscow is violating the Reagan-era agreement.

The decision has the potential to incite a new arms race — not only with Russia, but also with China, which was never a signatory to the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, widely known as the I.N.F.

It also comes as the United States has begun building its first long-range nuclear weapons since 1991, a move that other nations are citing to justify their own nuclear modernization efforts.

Taken together, the two moves appear to signal the end of more than a half-century of traditional nuclear arms control, in which the key agreements were negotiated in Washington and Moscow.

Russia and the USA appear to be intentionally reversing the arms control agendas of the early post-Cold War era, and are instead enhancing and expanding their nuclear arsenals. Other nuclear-armed states are following close behind.

This goes against public opinion, which is overwhelmingly opposed to a nuclear arms race, and to nuclear sabre rattling and threats, whether open or veiled, from Presidents Putin and Trump. Despite this, it’s extremely difficult for civil society to directly influence Russian or US nuclear policy.

That points to a deficit of democracy in both countries. It also points up the need for direct actions parliaments, cities and citizens can take to stop the assault on arms control treaties and prevent a new nuclear arms race.

To that end, mayors, parliamentarians and representatives of civil society organizations from 40 countries – mostly Europe and North America, including the mayors of 18 US cities– sent a joint appeal to Presidents Trump and Putin, calling on them to preserve the INF Treaty and resolve nuclear-weapons and security related conflicts through dialogue rather than through military provocation.

Will it change their minds? Not likely. But the appeal was also sent to the leaders of US congressional and Russian parliamentary committees in charge of armed forces (defense) and foreign relations.

It calls on them to refuse to authorize or allocate funding for nuclear weapons systems which the INF Treaty bans, for example ground-based intermediate range nuclear missiles, or weapons systems which could provide similar capability and be similarly destabilizing, such as air or sea launched nuclear-armed cruise missiles.

This could be the key to preserving the arms control measures of the INF Treaty even if it collapses. If the relevant committees refuse to authorize funds for these nuclear weapons systems, it makes it next to impossible for them to be developed.

The appeal also outlines a commitment by the endorsing mayors and parliamentarians to build support from cities and parliaments in nuclear-armed and allied States (which includes NATO countries) for nuclear risk reduction measures such as “no first use” policies.

Resolutions reflecting these calls have already been introduced in the US Senate and House of Representatives, for example the Prevention of Arms Race Act of 2018 (S.3667), and the No First-Use Act introduced last week by Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congressman Adam Smith, Chair of the House Armed Services Committee.

Similar resolutions have been adopted by the California State Assembly and at least three US cities, and more are pending in eight other US state assemblies.

This power-from-below approach – taking concerted action on nuclear risk-reduction and disarmament in federal, state and city legislatures – is just beginning.

It’s analogous to actions by over 700 U.S. governors and mayors who committed to implementing the Paris climate accord, despite the Trump administration withdrawing from it. In both cases, state and municipal officials have power to influence the global outcome.

In the US, action on nuclear disarmament by city governments is being advanced by the U.S. section of Mayors for Peace, a global network of over 7,000 cities, and the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM), a network of over 1400 major U.S. cities.

It has repeatedly urged Washington to show leadership in preventing nuclear war. For example, in June 2018 USCM unanimously adopted a resolution submitted by Frank Cownie, Mayor of Des Moines, Iowa and vice president of Mayors for Peace, with 25 co-sponsors, calling on the U.S. administration and congress to reduce nuclear tension with Russia, reaffirm the INF, adopt “no first use” and redirect nuclear weapons funding to meet human needs and protect the environment.

In Europe, cooperation between parliaments to advance nuclear risk-reduction, arms control and disarmament measures are advancing through the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE PA).

The parliaments of all European countries are part of it, along with the US, Canada, Russia and all former Soviet countries. A vital forum for dialogue between legislators from Russia and the West, the OSCE PA has succeeded in building consensus to support nuclear risk reduction including “no first use.”

Parliamentarians/legislators, cities and civil society activists can also slow the nuclear arms race by working to cut nuclear weapons budgets and to end investments in the nuclear weapons industry.

Corporations that make nuclear weapons and their delivery systems have a vested interest in stoking the nuclear arms race, so they lobby governments accordingly.

But parliaments, state governments and cities can influence their behavior by divesting from them, analogous to the way some major cities are divesting from fossil fuel companies to fight climate change.

So far only a handful of cities and non-nuclear governments have divested from nuclear manufacturers, but in 2017 the United Nations adopted a Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons which could lead to a wider global divestment movement.

So, it may not be all up to Trump and Putin. There are powerful levers parliaments, cities and civil society can use to stop the unraveling of the arms control regime and prevent an arms race, and increasingly, they will use them.

As U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower said, “People want peace so much that one of these days governments had better get out of the way and let them have it.”

After Fake University Bust, Indian Embassy opens hotline for students detained by US authorities

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Education, Travel, Youth 0

As many as 129 Indians are among the 130 foreign students arrested for enrolling at a fake university allegedly to remain in the US. The university in Detroit’s Farmington Hills was part of an undercover operation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) designed to expose immigration fraud, according to federal prosecutors who announced charges in the case. The arrest of such a large number of students has created panic among the Indian students.

Officials said all of them face deportation, besides being put under detention. A number of students have been put under some kind of house arrest with tracking device on their ankle, that prohibits them from moving out of a designated area in their neighbourhood.

As part of its investigations, early this week, the ICE arrested eight recruiters on criminal charges. From their names it appears that all of them are either Indian nationals or Indian-Americans. “These suspects aided hundreds of foreign nationals to remain in the United States illegally by helping to portray them as students, which they most certainly were not. HSI remains vigilant to ensure the integrity of US immigration laws and will continue to investigate this and other transnational crimes,” said Special Agent Charge Francis. According to the ICE, in 2017, as many as 249,763 Indian students were enrolled in the various American universities. Students from China topped the list with 481,106 in 2017.

On its website, the University of Farmington advertised an innovative STEM curriculum that would prepare students to compete in the global economy, and flexible class schedules that would allow them to enroll without disrupting their careers. The Michigan-based school touted the number of languages spoken by its president (four) and the number of classes taught by teaching assistants (zero.) Photos of the campus showed students lounging around with books on a grassy quad, or engaged in rapt conversation in its brightly-lit modern library. Tuition was relatively reasonable – $8,500 a year for undergraduates and $11,000 a year for graduate students.

“Located in the heart of the automotive and advanced manufacturing center of Southeast Michigan, the University of Farmington provides students from throughout the world a unique educational experience,” the site informed prospective applicants.

But there were no classes taking place at the university, which employed no instructors or professors. In court filings that were unsealed Wednesday, federal prosecutors revealed that the school’s employees were actually undercover agents working for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The fake university had been set up in 2015 as part of an elaborate sting operation aimed at ensnaring foreign nationals who had initially come to the United States on student visas. Its “campus” consisted of a small office in a corporate park in the northwestern Detroit suburb of Farmington Hills, Michigan, with no quad or library in sight.

The phony university was “being used by foreign citizens as a ‘pay to play’ scheme,” prosecutors allege. After forking over thousands of dollars, students would provide immigration authorities with evidence that they were enrolled in a full-time educational program. They could then continue to live and work in the United States under a student visa. But since the University of Farmington didn’t actually exist, they didn’t have the hassle of writing papers, taking tests or showing up to class.

Students knew that the scheme was illegal, “and that discretion should be used when discussing the program with others,” prosecutors wrote in their indictment, which was filed Jan. 15 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.

According to the Detroit News, which first reported on the undercover operation, dozens of University of Farmington students were arrested on immigration violations on Wednesday as part of a massive nationwide sweep, and are now potentially facing deportation. In addition, eight people who allegedly worked as “recruiters” for the school and collectively helped at least 600 students to remain in the country under false pretenses now face federal conspiracy charges.

The Department of Homeland Security’s list of certified schools where international students can enroll includes the University of Farmington. And the school made some pretense of being a legitimate institution. Before Wednesday night, when the school’s Facebook and Twitter accounts were abruptly deleted, posts on social media notified students about school cancellations due to an ice storm, and advertised an upcoming admissions fair. It had a Latin motto – “Scientia et Labor,” meaning “Knowledge and Work” – and a handful of positive online reviews from people claiming to be satisfied alumni.

But no one enrolled at the university was making progress toward a degree, the indictment said. The “unique educational experience” promoted on the school’s website apparently consisted of not going to school at all.

There were some clues that not everything was aboveboard. The school’s website never said how many enrolled students it had, though it claimed that they came from all 50 states and 47 countries. It didn’t name the university’s president or the year when the school was founded. As the Detroit News’s Robert Snell noted on Twitter, a photo showing a diverse group of students deep in concentration came from Shutterstock. The university claimed to be accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, but did not appear in an online directory of accredited institutions on the organization’s website.

According to prosecutors, students were well aware that the school was a fraud. They allegedly chose to enroll anyway because doing so would allow them to remain in the country on F-1 nonimmigrant visas, which allow foreign citizens to temporarily reside in the United States while studying accredited academic institutions.

Khaalid Walls, a spokesman for ICE in Detroit, told local news station WXYZ that the students had entered the United States legally on F-1 visas after being accepted to legitimate schools, and had later transferred to the University of Farmington.

The federal indictments name eight people in eight states who allegedly worked as recruiters for the school. All have been arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit visa fraud and harboring aliens for profit. They face a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

The eight recruiters allegedly helped create fraudulent records, including transcripts, that students could give to immigration authorities. Authorities contend that they collectively accepted more than $250,000 in kickbacks for their work, not realizing that the payments were actually coming from undercover agents who worked for Homeland Security Investigations, a division of ICE.

“We are all aware that international students can be a valuable asset to our country, but as this case shows, the well-intended international student visa program can also be exploited and abused,” Matthew Schneider, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, said in a statement emailed to media outlets on Wednesday.

This isn’t the first time that the feds have set up a fake university with the goal of rooting out visa fraud. Calling “pay to stay” a national security threat, officials announced in April 2016 that they had charged 21 people with recruiting international students who paid to enroll at the made-up University of Northern New Jersey so that they could get student visas. More than a dozen students who partook in the scheme later told the New York Times that they felt they had been deceived by the government.

Many of the students who enrolled at the University of Farmington appear to be Indian nationals who belong to the Telugu ethnic group. The American Telugu Association said in a Wednesday statement that “scores of Telugu students nationwide” had been arrested in early-morning raids, and that the organization was attempting to provide them with legal guidance.

As the News noted, the undercover investigation seems to have ramped up one month after President Trump took office. While the fake university was set up in 2015, it wasn’t until February 2017 that HSI agents began posing as university officials, the indictment said. The undercover operation, nicknamed “Paper Chase,” continued until earlier this month.

The Indian embassy has appointed a nodal officer to handle and coordinate all issues related to helping Indian students affected by the busting of the “pay-and-stay” racket run by a group of Indians that has put some 600 students under trouble.

The Indian embassy in the US has opened a 24/7 hotline to assist 129 Indian students arrested by the American authorities in the “pay-and-stay” university visa scam, officials have said. The two numbers – 202-322-1190 and 202-340-2590 – would be manned by senior embassy officials round the clock, officials said on Friday. The arrested students, their friends and family members can contact the embassy at cons3.washington@mea.gov.in.

35th Annual Dance Pe Chance’ 2019 – 70th Republic Day Celebrations

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion, Entertainment, Fashion, Profiles 0

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of the tri-state, one of the oldest and the largest nonprofit Umbrella Organization of the Indian Diaspora celebrated India’s 70th Republic Day in grandeur with its annual show “Dance Pe Chance” promoting the 2nd generation of the Indian Diaspora while promoting the culture and heritage at the Union County Arts Center, in Rahway, New Jersey.

The packed show was a cultural extravaganza as the students from various dance schools of four different states participated in festive spirit to prove their mettle at the “Dance Pe Chance” dance competition. Nine dance schools performed in front of a sold-out auditorium in four categories: Minor, Junior, Senior and Adult. Aum Dance Creations, Arya Dance Academy, Aatma Performing Arts, B2Z Dance School, Dancing Shiva, Natraj Dance Studio, Nirmiti School Of Dance, Simply Dance, Pranavam School Of Dance are among the schools that participated.

The event commenced with the National Anthem of US and India, during his welcome address FIA President Alok Kumar triumphantly welcomed the spectators and applauded the children parents and choreographers. He also dedicated the 35th year of this cultural performance competition to children who with this year total surpassing an accumulated total of over 18000 children that have participated in this cultural dance competition that spans 3 decades.

The community event also honored the dignitaries in attendance, judges, guests and the traditional ceremony of oath for the FIA’s incoming executive committee of 2019 – Alok Kumar President; Himanshu Bhatia, Executive Vice President; Saurin Parikh, Vice President; Amit Yadav, General Secretary; Amit Ringasia, Treasurer; Srujal Parikh, immediate Past President and Mardavi Patel, Joint Secretary. The oath was administered by Deputy Consulate General New York Shatrughan Sinha who was on hand, acknowledged and welcomed the incoming FIA Executive team. He expressed his appreciation for the role FIA has played in the community for 49 years and how working CGI-NY and FIA working in sync is pivotal and progressive beneficial for the Indian diaspora here in the Northeast.

DCG- Sinha also administered the oath to two new members added by FIA to the Board of Trustees, Jayesh Patel Past President & Ankur Vaidya, two-term Past President both long-time FIA veterans. Vaidya addressed the gathering on behalf of Chairman Ramesh Patel and recognized the support of the FIA Board that currently holds a line of distinguished community leaders including Ramesh Patel, Padma Shri H R Shah, Padma Shri Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Albert Jasani, Ram Gadhavi, Dipak Patel, Chandrakant Trivedi, Pravin Pandhi and Yash Paul Soi.

FIA also honored and had as a Guest of Honor Emmy Award-winning travel show host and PBS Travel celebrity Darley Newman who graced the event with her presence. Ms. Newman applauded the performances and efforts including costumes and props displayed by the participants.

Participants were judged by an array of talented personalities including Palvesha Latiwala, decorated dancer and the CEO of Bombino Express, Smt. Gomathi Manoj, decorated Bharatanatyam artiste, teacher and Artistic Director of Soundarya Natya Kalalaya and Nirali Vakharia, Director and founder of Natraj Nrityala School of Dance. The event was sponsored by Pyar.com, BCB Indus American Bank, Movers.com, RWJ Barnabas Health, The South Asian Times, Air India, Cox & Kings, SBI New York, New York Life, Bombino Express, Akbar Restaurant, Universal Relocations, TV Asia, Parikh Worldwide Media, Hotstar, The Indian Panorama, EBC Radio and Printzazu.

FIA added variety and diversity by including a ‘grownups or adults’ category that showed the 3 glitz-filled performances by majority the participating moms. There was also a spectacular martial arts form – Tae Kwan Do performance by Kim’s Tae Kwan Do which was compiled by Tae Kwan Do Master J D Kim. Concluding the event, FIA honored all the dancers, choreographers and judges with Prize-Winning amounts, mementos, and certificates. In addition to other offerings extended to participants by the FIA.

The List of Winners:

Minor Category

Best Costume:- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Singham, Mamta se bhare

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

Best Choreography:- Arya Dance Academy

Song: Singham, Mamta se bhare

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

Technique:- Dancing Shiva

Song : Song from Lagaan

Choreographer: Jeanie Beri & Neal Doshi

3rd prize:- Aum Dance Creations

Song : Sridevi Medley

Choreographer: Rina Shah, Anu Mysore

2nd prize:- Dancing Shiva

Song : Song from Lagaan

Choreographer: Jeanie Beri & Neal Doshi

1st prize:- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Singham, Mamta se bhare

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

Junior Category

Best Costume :- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Shah ka Rutba, Gajanan, Vande mataram

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

Best Choreography :- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Shah ka Rutba, Gajanan, Vande mataram

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

Technique :- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Shah ka Rutba, Gajanan, Vande mataram

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

3rd prize:- Aatma Performing Arts

Song : Kanna Nidurinchara, Soja Zara, Gulaab Gang

Choreographer: Amit Shah, Serena Ortiz, Sapna Advani

2nd prize:- Aum Dance Creations

Song : Garba/Raas – Kamariya, Chogada, Dholi Taro, Raangtaali, Dholida, Nagada Sang Dhol

Choreographer: Rina Shah, Anu Mysore

1st prize:- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Shah ka Rutba, Gajanan, Vande mataram

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

Senior Category

Best Costume :- Aatma Performing Arts / Arya Dance Academy

Song : Pyar kiya toh darna kya , Dil cheez kya hai / Albela Sajan, Jai Jai kara, Jai Hanuman

Choreographer: Amit Shah, Sapna Advani, Swarali/ Arya Instructors

Best Choreography :- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Albela Sajan, Jai Jai kara, Jai Hanuman

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

Technique :- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Albela Sajan, Jai Jai kara, Jai Hanuman

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

3rd prize:- Aum Dance Creations

Song : Balleilaka, Suno Gaur Se,Satyamev, Maa Tuje Salaam

Choreographer: Rina Shah, Anu Mysore

2nd prize:- Arya Dance Academy

Song : Albela Sajan, Jai Jai kara, Jai Hanuman

Choreographer: Arya Instructors

1st prize:- Aatma Performing Arts

Song : Pyar kiya toh darna kya , Dil cheez kya hai

Choreographer: Amit Shah, Sapna Advani, Swarali

The top performance in all aspects in all categories ‘Best of the Best’ Judges Choice:- AUM Dance Creations (Junior Category)

Telugu Association of Greater Chicago celebrates Sankranthi & Republic Day

February 6, 2019 Asian Media USACommunity, Culture/Religion 0

Chicago IL: Telugu Association of Greater Chicago (TAGC- First Telugu association in North America) celebrated Makara Sankranti and India Republic Day with Chicago land area Telugu families at the HTGC Rama Temple Auditorium, Lemont IL 60439.The event was a grand success with an overwhelming response from the Telugu community with over 1100 guests in attendance. The event was conducted on 26th January, 2019 from 2:30PM to 10PM. TAGC Board decided to do this event with all local talent promoting the Telugu culture, traditions and encouraged youth to preserve traditions.

TAGC President Ramu Billakanti garu welcomed and wished good health, prosperity and wealth to TAGC Members and all Telugu People across the globe. President garu recognized and thanked all Sponsors, Volunteers and encouraged to take membership by all attendees. According to Membership committee chair Mr. Venkat Gunuganti, the Event received tremendous positive response with over 1100 people attending from distant places even when the day saw negative temperatures with 4-5inch snow. Cultural Head Uma Avadhuta mentioned that the event showcased 36 programs with over 340 participants.

Event Started with Lighting Lamp by Ramu Billakanti (President), Venkat Gunuganti (Secretary), Praveen Vemulapalli (President-Elect), Uma Avadhuta (Cultural Chair & Jt Secretary) and other board members. It then followed by Lord Ganesha prayer and several programs & shows designed around Sankranthi and Republic Day Theme. Each and Every program thoroughly entertained audience and several of them shared great feedback with the board members. Chicago Local singers entertained with variety of songs which were liked by all sections of the audience. Sever Kids went on to the stage and started dancing to their songs.

Audience were enthusiastic to see all decorations throughout the Auditorium. Bommalla Koluvu, Kite decoration, Harvest Crop theme were special attractions according to Decorations Committee Chair Mrs. Vani Yetrintala. She thanked Saumya Bojja who did all the decoration work for TAGC. There was also a competition (Muggula potti) on Sankranthi theme and winners were given Prizes. There was also a Mehendi or Gorintaku FREE for all TAGC Members. TAGC Sankranti cultural Celebration also included delicious dinner that included 10 items which includes Medhu Vada, Pongal, Pulav Rice, Phool Makhani curry, Pizza for kids. Several Volunteers led by Food Chair Mr. Parameshwara Yarasani has streamlined the process and provided food for more than 1100 guests within an hour. TAGC Board thanked Bawarchi restaurant for providing a tasty and delicious food at a nominal price

Few Highlights at the Event
· Sankranti village backdrop Decoration by Saumya Bojja
· Free Gorintaaku (Mehindi) for TAGC Members
· Muggulapoteelu – Sarees for Winners
· 30 Kids Fashion Show around Sankranthi Theme
· Musical Performances by Chicago Singers Kaasyap Boddapati, Archana Vuppulancha and Madhuri Durga
· Festive delicacies (Pongal Rice) by Bawarchi Biryanis Naperville

All the board members, various committee chairs/co-chairs, volunteers under the direction of the current President Mr. Ramu Billakanti worked hard with dedication, passion and great enthusiasm to make TAGC 2019 first event grand successful and memorable with festive experience to guests and participants who attended the event. Youth Volunteers helped in the event in membership validation, ticket distribution and Food serving. The event was helped by several volunteers which help in smooth execution

Finally, TAGC President Ramu Billakanti thanked and congratulated Cultural Committee Chair Uma Avadhuta, Co- chairs Neelima Cheikyacharla, Archana Reddy Podduturi, Madhavi Kondam, Secretary Venkat Gunuganti, Presient Elect Praveen Vemulapalli, Treasurer Vijay Beeram, Jt Treasurer Ranga Reddy Lenkala, EC Member Anji Reddy Kandimalla, Food Committee Chair parameshware Yarasani, Decoration Chair Vani Yetrintala, Hospitality Chair Swetha Janamanchi, Board Members Srinivas Kandru, Sampath Sangem, Santosh Konduri, Rohit Akula, Naveen Aduma, Eeshwar Gumidyala, Manasa Lattupally, Bindu Gongati, all the MC’s (Shantan Toodi, Laxminarayana Ponnaganti, Radha Krishna Kotrakonda and Pranathi Kaligotla), Singers and Several TAGC Volunteers.

India Republic Day on Long Island

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion, India 0

On Friday, January 25th, the Town of Hempstead Town Hall was busy and bustling with vibrant Indian Tricolors. Outside the town Hall on the pole was Our Tiranga Jhanda ready to be raised. The occasion was 16th India Republic Day Celebrations organized by Hempstead Town Supervisor Honorable Laura Gillen and Board members of Indian American Forum, India Association of long Island and IDPUSA Team…

Laura Gillen, Hempstead Town Clerk Silvia Cabana, Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney, Councilman Mr Dennis Dunn, Councilman Bruce A Blakeman, Edward A Ambrosino, New York State Senators Kevin Thomas and Anna Kaplan, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, Indu Jaiswal Chairperson of Indian American Forum, Lalit Aery President India Association of Long island, Jasbir Jay Singh, president IDPUSA, and several community leaders joined in raising the Flag outside the town Hall followed with Indian national anthem. Ms. Silvia Caban, Hempstead town clerk hosted special breakfast in her office

On January 30, The Board of trustees and, members of Indian American Forum, India Association of Long Island and IDPUSA, organized Sixteenth India Republic Day Celebration at The Historical Old Village Hall, in Hempstead Town Hall. Honorable Supervisor Laura Gillen hosted the Republic Day Celebrations. The town Hall was decorated with Tricolors from Indian flag and patriotic songs were being played all over. Supervisor Gillen was joined with Town Clerk Sivia Cabana and New York State Senator Kevin Thomas, and several elected officers, judges and dignitaries were present and enjoyed this unique evening of celebrations. Supervisor Gillen welcomed everyone and praised the efforts of Indian Americans Community in USA.

New York State Senator Kevin Thomas presented Citations from the New York State to Honorees and Keynote speaker. Indu Jaiswal, Chairperson of IAF, welcomed everyone and acknowledged the presence of all community leaders and support of President IALI Lalit Aery and President Jasbir Singh IDPUSA. And various organizations present and participated in the program.

India Republic Day Awards were presented to: DALIP MALIK, CPA. Mr Malik is well renowned CPA in Tri State are He is also very active in many religious organizations. One of the religious charitable organizations has nine temples in six states with very large following.

Jaspreet S Mayall, partner in the Telecommunications Group at at CertillanBallinAdlerand Hyman, counsels cellular phone companies, master wholesalers and retailers. He is an active member of Nassau County Bar Association and on the Board of America Heart Association, charged with helping the organization build awareness in the South Asian Community.

Dr Raj K Narayan MD, FACS is the Chief of Neurosurgery at North Shore University Hospital and Long island Jewish medical Center and Director of the Northwell Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery. Dr Narayan is also the professor and chairman of Neurosurgery at the Zucker School of medicine at Hofstra Northwell in Hempstead. Dr Narayan discussed importance of celebration of India Republic Day.

Program started with pledge of Allegiance by Tara Choudhry. Indian and American national Anthems by Anjana Moolaaylil . Opening prayers were done by Pandit Amol Misra, priest from Vedic Heritage, Long Island.

Lighting of the lamps coordinated by Past Chairman IAF, Dr Parveen Chopra, Roopam Maini, Saroj Aery and Beena Kothari. Patriotic songs sung by Vijay Banjara, Jyoti Gupta, Indu Gajwani, Sonia Anand and Anju Sharma. And Friends. Cultural program introduced by Sunita Manjrekar and Indu Gajwani. Folk dances and other performances we presented by Students of Shilpa Jhurani, from Arya Dance Academy and Nartan Rang Dance Academy of BVB.

End of the ceremony prayers done by priest Venkamma Ghantasala from Sai Temple Baldwin. Bina Sabapathy and Roopam Maini thanked all the sponsors Meena Chopra from Akbar Restaurant, , Media, Roopam Maini, Rizwan Qureshi, Vijay Goswamy,, Jyoti Gupta, Shilpa Jhurani, Swati Vaishnav, Shilpa Mithaiwala, Saroj Aery, Gobind Gupta, Shashi Malik and all volunteers and supporters

Datavant Announces New Executive Hires as Network of Health Data Partners Expands Datavant’s technology helps healthcare organizations safely link their data to improve medical research and care while protecting patient privacy

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Health, Science & Technology 0

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 5, 2019 — Datavant, the leader in helping healthcare organizations safely link their data to improve medical research and patient care, today announced the appointments of Steven Swank as Chief Revenue Officer and Nick Colburn as Chief Financial Officer. Datavant also announced the appointment of Niall Brennan and Charles Safran to its Advisory Board.

“Healthcare data is too siloed today, which holds back the development of new therapies and the delivery of personalized treatment to patients,” said Datavant CEO Travis May. “These additions to the team will help us continue scaling our ecosystem to solve this challenge. We will benefit from Steve’s leadership and experience building a world-class sales and partnerships team, and we will be guided by Nick’s wisdom as a three-time Chief Financial Officer at enterprise software companies.”

Throughout his career, Mr. Swank has held numerous sales leadership positions at technology and enterprise sales companies. Most recently, he served as Chief Revenue Officer at RPX Corporation (NASDAQ:RPXC) where he grew the client base by over 300 clients and more than quintupled revenue to $330 million by December of 2017. Prior to RPX, he served as the Vice President of Sales at Comdata. Mr. Swank received his BA in Economics from Bucknell University and his MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

“I’m inspired by Datavant’s mission to help build an open health data ecosystem to enable advanced analytics and applications,” said Mr. Swank. “Datavant’s existing partners and customers have benefited from the ability to link corresponding de-identified patient records across different types of datasets. I look forward to helping scale Datavant’s vision across the entire healthcare system, allowing health data to flow to its highest and best use.”

Colburn joins Datavant after having most recently served as the Chief Financial Officer of Building Robotics (DBA Comfy), which was sold to Siemens in 2018. Prior to that, he was the Chief Financial Officer at Funding Circle US and at Nexxo Financial. He has also held senior finance positions at PayPal and Providian. Mr. Colburn received three degrees from Stanford University: a BS in Mathematical and Computational Sciences, an MS in Engineering Economic Systems, and an MBA from the Graduate School of Business.

Brennan is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Health Care Cost Institute, and was the Chief Data Officer at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services from 2010 to 2017. Mr. Brennan is a nationally recognized expert in healthcare policy, the use of healthcare data to enable and accelerate health system change, and data transparency. He has also worked at the Brookings Institution, the Congressional Budget Office, the Urban Institute and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Mr. Brennan received his BA in History and Political Science from University College, Dublin, Ireland, and his MPP from Georgetown University.

Dr. Safran is a primary care physician who has devoted his professional career to improving patient care through the creative use of informatics. He is Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Chief of the Division of Clinical Informatics at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. He was formerly President and Chairman of the American Medical Informatics Association, and throughout his career has helped to develop and deploy large institutional clinical computing systems, electronic health records, and clinical decision support systems to help patients with HIV/AIDS, telehealth systems to support parents with premature infants, and eHealth solutions for caretakers of elderly family members. Dr. Safran is an elected fellow of both the American College of Medical Informatics and the American College of Physicians.

Datavant’s mission is to connect the world’s health data. Datavant works with data owners and users to ensure that data can be connected to power next-generation analytics and applications while protecting patient privacy. Datavant is headquartered in San Francisco. Learn more about Datavant at www.datavant.com.

Religion’s Relationship to Happiness, Civic Engagement and Health Around the World In the U.S. and other countries, participation in a congregation is a key factor

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

People who are active in religious congregations tend to be happier and more civically engaged than either religiously unaffiliated adults or inactive members of religious groups, according to a new Pew Research Center analysis of survey data from the United States and more than two dozen other countries.

Religiously active people also tend to smoke and drink less, but they are not healthier in terms of exercise frequency and rates of obesity. Nor, in most countries, are highly religious people more likely to rate themselves as being in very good overall health – though the U.S. is among the possible exceptions.

Many previous studies have found positive associations between religion and health in the United States. Researchers have shown, for example, that Americans who regularly attend religious services tend to live longer.1 Other studies have focused on narrower health benefits, such as how religion may help breast cancer patients cope with stress. On the other hand, there are also studies that have not found a robust relationship between religion and better health in the U.S., and even some studies that have shown negative relationships, such as higher rates of obesity among highly religious Americans. (For more on previous studies of religion and health, see this sidebar.)

Taking a broad, international approach to this complicated topic, Pew Research Center researchers set out to determine whether religion has clearly positive, negative or mixed associations with eight different indicators of individual and societal well-being available from international surveys conducted over the past decade. Specifically, this report examines survey respondents’ self-assessed levels of happiness, as well as five measures of individual health and two measures of civic participation.2

By dividing people into three categories, the study also seeks to isolate whether religious affiliation or religious participation – or both, or neither – is associated with happiness, health and civic engagement. The three categories are: “Actively religious,” made up of people who identify with a religious group and say they attend services at least once a month (sometimes called “actives”); “inactively religious,” defined as those who claim a religious identity but attend services less often (also called “inactives”); and “religiously unaffiliated,” people who do not identify with any organized religion (sometimes called “nones”).3

This analysis finds that in the U.S. and many other countries around the world, regular participation in a religious community clearly is linked with higher levels of happiness and civic engagement (specifically, voting in elections and joining community groups or other voluntary organizations). This may suggest that societies with declining levels of religious engagement, like the U.S., could be at risk for declines in personal and societal well-being. But the analysis finds comparatively little evidence that religious affiliation, by itself, is associated with a greater likelihood of personal happiness or civic involvement.

Moreover, there is a mixed picture on the five health measures. In the U.S. and elsewhere, actively religious people are less likely than others to engage in certain behaviors that are sometimes viewed as sinful, such as smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. But religious activity does not have a clear association with how often people exercise or whether they are obese. And, after adjusting for differences in age, education, income and other factors, there is no statistical link between being actively religious and being in better self-reported overall health in any of the 26 countries and territories studied except Taiwan, Mexico and the United States.4

Even in the U.S., the strength of the linkage between religion and health varies, depending on measures and datasets used. For example, in some years, the General Social Survey has shown that religiously affiliated people who go to church or other religious services at least once a month are particularly likely to report that they are in excellent overall health, while in other recent years this has not been the case. (See sidebar on the United States).

The exact nature of the connections between religious participation, happiness, civic engagement and health remains unclear and needs further study. While the data presented in this report indicate that there are links between religious activity and certain measures of well-being in many countries, the numbers do not prove that going to religious services is directly responsible for improving people’s lives. Rather, it could be that certain kinds of people tend to be active in multiple types of activities (secular as well as religious), many of which may provide physical or psychological benefits.5 Moreover, such people may be more active partly because they are happier and healthier, rather than the other way around. (For more information about what may be causing these links, see this sidebar.)

Whatever the explanation may be, more than one-third of actively religious U.S. adults (36%) describe themselves as very happy, compared with just a quarter of both inactive and unaffiliated Americans. Across 25 other countries for which data are available, actives report being happier than the unaffiliated by a statistically significant margin in almost half (12 countries), and happier than inactively religious adults in roughly one-third (nine) of the countries.

The gaps are often striking: In Australia, for example, 45% of actively religious adults say they are very happy, compared with 32% of inactives and 33% of the unaffiliated. And there is no country in which the data show that actives are significantly less happy than others (though in many countries, there is not much of a difference between the actives and everyone else).

When it comes to measuring civic participation, the results again follow a pattern: On balance, people who are actively religious are also more likely to be active in voluntary and community groups. This dovetails with previous studies in the United States.6

In the U.S., 58% of actively religious adults say they are also active in at least one other (nonreligious) kind of voluntary organization, including charity groups, sports clubs or labor unions. Only about half of all inactively religious adults (51%) and fewer than half of the unaffiliated (39%) say the same.7

A similar pattern appears in many other countries for which data are available: Actively religious adults tend to be more involved in voluntary organizations. In 11 out of 25 countries analyzed outside of the U.S., actives are more likely than inactives to join community groups. And in seven of the countries, actively religious adults are more likely than those who are religiously unaffiliated to belong to voluntary organizations.

In addition, a higher percentage of actively religious adults in the United States (69%) say they always vote in national elections than do either inactives (59%) or the unaffiliated (48%).

Outside of the U.S., actively religious adults are more likely than “nones” to report voting in national elections in half the countries (12 out of 24) for which data on this measure are available; in the remaining countries, there is not much of a difference. Actives also are more likely than their inactive compatriots to say they vote in nine out of 24 countries, while the opposite is not true in any country for which data are available.8

These are among the key findings of a new analysis of data from cross-national surveys conducted since 2010 by Pew Research Center and two other organizations: the World Values Survey Association and the International Social Survey Programme. This report focuses on countries with sufficiently large populations of people who are actively religious, inactively religious and religiously unaffiliated to allow researchers to compare all three groups using the same survey data. As a result, the analysis cannot be truly global: 26 countries surveyed by the WVS are used to measure self-rated health, happiness and voluntary group participation; 25 countries, also surveyed by the WVS, are included for voting; and 19 countries surveyed by the ISSP are used to examine smoking, drinking alcohol, obesity and exercise. A Pew Research Center survey provides U.S. estimates for self-rated happiness. The countries analyzed are mostly Christian-majority nations in Europe and the Americas (because these countries tend to have substantial unaffiliated populations), though the analysis also includes a few African and Asian countries and territories, such as South Africa, South Korea and Japan.

An additional reason this study relies heavily on data from Christian-majority countries is that regular attendance at religious services – a key measure in this study – is a more central practice in some world religions (such as Christianity, Islam and Judaism) than in others (such as Hinduism or Buddhism, in which there is less emphasis on communal worship).

US switches to new H-1B system that favors foreigners in American colleges

February 6, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Education, Travel, U.S. 0

The US announced that starting April 1, it will switch to a new system for processing H-1B petitions that will give priority to foreign workers with advanced degrees from an American institution of higher education, over those hired abroad, in India, China and other countries.

The new system will also introduce electronic registration of petitions, which, however, will be suspended for the upcoming H-1B 2020 season that will typically kick off from April 1.

The United States has announced that starting April 1, it will switch to a new system for processing H-1B petitions that will give priority to foreign workers with advanced degrees from an American institution of higher education, over those hired abroad, in India, China and other countries.

The new system will also introduce electronic registration of petitions, which, however, will be suspended for the upcoming H-1B 2020 season that will typically kick off from April 1.

The switch in the selection process is expected to increase the number of beneficiaries with advanced degrees from US institutions by an estimated 16% (or 5,340 workers). It is in line with President Donald Trump’s repeated assertions in support of merit-based immigration.

Francis Cissna, director of the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which runs the H-1B visa programme, gave a nod to Trump in a statement announcing the new rule and said, “US employers seeking to employ foreign workers with an American masters or higher degree will have a greater chance of selection in the H-1B lottery in years of excess demand for new H-1B visas.”

Trump had himself signalled the new rule in a tweet earlier this month in which he had said “changes are soon coming which will bring both simplicity and certainty to your stay, including a potential path to citizenship”. And, he had added, “We want to encourage talented and highly skilled people to pursue career options in the US.”

The US grants 65,000 visas to foreigner workers hired abroad for speciality professions sponsored by American employers every year under a congressionally mandated cap. Another 20,000 visas are granted to foreigners with advanced degree from US colleges and universities.

More than 70% of the total visas go to Indian beneficiaries hired by both US companies such as Amazon, Microsoft and Google, and US arms of Indian outsourcing giants such as Infosys, TCS and Wipro.

Dr. Kiran Patel receives Pravasi Bharatiya Samman in Varanasi A visionary, cardiologist, businessman, educationist, and philanthropist, devotes substantial sums towards charity and education in India, Zambia, & US

January 29, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Education, Health 0

Kiran Patel, chairman of Tampa, Fla.-based Freedom Health and a pioneering Cardiologist, was accorded the highest national honor given to any person of Indian origin living outside of India, the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman on Wednesday, January 23^rd, 2019.Dr. Patel received the award from the Indian President Ram Nath Kovind at the 15^thPravasi Bharatiya Divas in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, which concluded last week.

The other three chosen fro the award from the US included, IMF chief economist Gita Gopinath, Illinois-based scientist Chandra Shekhar Mishra and Michigan resident Gitesh Jayantilal Desai. Besides the four Indian Americans, 24 other prominent personalities from the Indian diaspora worldwide received the awards.

Dr. Patel has generously contributed his fortune for several noble causes in India, his country of origin, the United States, his adopted country, and Zambia, the country of his birth. Dr. Patel is also the Chairman and President of Optimum Healthcare, Inc.

All philanthropic campaigns, contributions and projects have resulted from his passion for health, education and charity. That’s why he has also commissioned Drs. Kiran and Pallavi Global University, a 120-acre institute under construction in India.

Sharing his own experiences of investing in the state of Gujarat and in the United States, Dr. Patel, said, with the state requiring more trained personnel to support the growing needs, he is willing to establish a Medical College in Rajasthan.

Dr. Patel, a very soft spoken physician of Indian origin, said the projects combine his passions for health education and charity. In his first venture in running a university, he hopes to fulfill a need for competent doctors in the area while also educating generations of physicians who can serve in underprivileged areas across the globe.

Dr. Patel had purchased the former Clearwater Christian College property with a goal of developing an osteopathic medical school in his home-state, Florida. The Indian American physician closed on the $12 million purchase of the 25-acre campus overlooking Old Tampa Bay at the west end of the Courtney Campbell Causeway.

In 2014, Patel broke ground on the $175 million, 448-room Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach resort, creating a successful and modern hospitality business.

In July, the city of Clearwater purchased the 111 acres of wetlands and submerged lands surrounding the campus for preservation and restoration projects. If his plans are fulfilled, Patel will develop the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, catering to both domestic and international students, especially from India and Africa, who otherwise could not afford medical training.

“One goal,” he said, “is to train doctors who can return to their home countries and treat underserved communities. It is not easy — there are a lot of challenges — but if somebody’s heart is there and doing the right thing, the right results will follow,” Patel said.

The hope is for the school to serve upwards of 150 students by the fall of 2018 or early 2019, following the credentialing and certification process. Patel estimates it could cost $50 million to launch the school, most of which will come from his own pocket, although having existing classroom infrastructure and dormitories significantly reduces costs.

Mayor George Cretekos of Tampa described Patel’s proposed development as a “boom for the city.” “I think it’s a good fit and goes with what we were wanting to see with that property,” Cretekos said, according to the Tampa Bay Times report. “The potential to benefit the entire area is just amazing.”

Planning and overseeing the charitable works, according to Dr. Patel has “Two approaches: direct involvement in the areas of Zambia, East Africa and India. I oversee the utilization of the funds to the penny. What you have seen in the Tampa area is a legacy gift. To impact as large a group as possible, we have entrusted a responsible institution to perpetuate our mission, such as the performing arts center and University of South Florida.”

Born in Zambia to Indian American parents, educated in India, Dr. Kiran Patel arrived in the United States on Thanksgiving Day, 1976. He returned home to attend medical school, where he met his wife, Pallavi, a fellow student, but ultimately decided to return to the U.S. permanently. “I wanted to make sure my children had a better future, and the political climate in Africa at the time was a bit challenging,” he says.

Dr. Patel was educated in Zambia and then got his diploma in Cambridge University and The University of London. He came down to India to study medicine in Gujarat University in India and did his Internship in Africa. Dr. Patel did his residency in Internal Medicine in New Jersey in 1980. He completed a fellowship in the Cardiology program affiliated with the Columbia University of New York in 1982.

Dr. Pallavi Patel did her undergraduate degree from M.G. Science College, Gujarat University, and attended Municipal Medical College of Gujarat University in Ahmedabad. She did her internship from St. Barnabas Hospital in New Jersey, School of Medicine Dentistry of New Jersey and Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey, in affiliation with Columbia University in New York. She started her private practice in Kabwe, Zambia, from 1974 to 1978 and worked as a part-time consultant physician from 1974 to 1978 for Kabwe Industrial Fabrics, Ltd. and Kapiri Glass Products, Ltd.

The Patel family moved to Tampa, Florida in 1982 and Dr. Kiran Patel began his practice in Cardiology. His dedication, compassion, and skills made him very successful at the very early stage of medical practice, and was soon a distinguished cardiologist in that area. He developed a physician practice management company and expanded to places adjoining Tampa Bay area diverging into 14 practices including Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics and Cardiology.

Dr. Patel was also in partnership with several point-of-service locations to form multi-specialty networks. This network helped patients to access most medical services conveniently. He has actively engaged himself in managed care contracts and has expanded so much that it provides care for more than 80,000 patients annually. Apart from this, he has developed good associations with several HMOs and hospitals. His success in managed care contracts led a group of doctors to seek his services to help them with an HMO in New Port Richey, Florida.

Dr. Patel took up the project after discussing a pre-determined purchase option of the company. It was called the Well Care HMO, Inc. (Well Care). In 1992, Dr. Kiran Patel, along with Rupesh Shaw, CEO, and Pradip Patel, President, started a Medicaid managed care company. Not long after, this company became the largest Medicaid provider in the state of Florida.

He helped to bring around the struggling HMO, WellCare of New York and Connecticut. While turning around the company, he worked with nearly a hundred hospitals and a few hundred physicians in settling past due medical claims. Dr. Kiran Patel provided an additional $15 million in equity through Conversion of Brow and infused $10 million of new capital and acquired 55 percent of the publicly held Well Care Management Group.

Between 1995 and 2002, Dr. Kiran Patel built it into a billion-dollar company, providing services to more than 450,000 members, employing more than 1,200 employees and operating in Florida, New York and Connecticut. Dr. Patel subsequently entered the managed care industry and was the Chairman of WellCare of Florida.

He had served as Chairman of Visionary Medical Systems. He believes that the Visionary Office will reduce the paperwork for the physicians and give them more time to devote on their patients. He is a member on the following organizations: Fellow of American College of Cardiology; American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, American Association of Physicians from the South East Asia, Past Chair Scholarship Committee.

A cardiologist, visionary, businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Kiran Patel, along with his wife devotes substantial sums towards charity and education both in India, Zambia as well as in the United States. A 50-bed charity hospital serving 100,000 villagers in India was established by her along with her family; provision of funds for annual scholarship for underprivileged children to obtain a college education; funding for the construction of the USF Charter School for Underprivileged Children in Hillsborough County; sponsoring of 25 orphans from India to visit and perform a cross-cultural program in the United States.

In 2003, the Patels sold their majority of his interest in their business, and Dr. Patel turned his attention to the family’s many philanthropic endeavors. That same year, he became chairman of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). It was from this vantage point that he began to tackle several significant humanitarian projects in India, including the construction of numerous hospitals, a diabetes research study, and improved health care access for poor and rural citizens. His enormous contributions during and after national calamities in India are very remarkable.

Dr. Patel united the Tampa Bay community and AAPI and led an effort that eventually rehabilitated the villagers’ homes, constructed an orphanage and model school and created four modern hospitals, and was able to utilize generous contributions from the Tampa Bay community, and often matched them with his own money.

One of the leading philanthropists in America, the Patels also sponsor 25 orphans from India to come annually to the United States and participate in cross-cultural programs.

On the challenges he had to face upon arrival here in the US, Dr. Patels says, “There are many challenges when you come from an Eastern culture to the Western world. It’s a tougher transition for children than for us. I have a rigid personality … as a parent I have firm expectations on behavior, certain etiquette and rules. My children all got used to it, in a good way. They know I am there for them and they for me, but I’m not a warm, fuzzy type of guy.”

The couple’s gift of $12 million to the University of South Florida, resulted in converting the Patel School of Global Sustainability to the Patel College of Global Sustainability. “It was important to create a college to be a perpetual institution that creates students and scholars who are going to change the world dramatically,” Dr. Patel says. “I believe it will create champions of the profession. Most people don’t understand sustainability; they think it’s just a problem for third world countries. They don’t realize the U.S. and Europe are most guilty of consuming resources. At the current rate the Western world uses natural resources, we would need six Earths to provide the rest of the world the same lifestyle. We must change.”

Another area of focus for the Patels is health. “Intellectual capability without physical capability, you still have a problem. Arts and culture are more in the luxurious category, which it should not be, but I feel that way. It can play a unique role in integrating people, but if someone is starving, he’s not going to think of the arts,” he says.

The family has become renowned in the Tampa Bay area and beyond for their openhanded philanthropy: The suburbs of Tampa is home to one of the largest single-family estate in the United States, according to property assessment records obtained by the Tampa Tribune. Dr. Kiran and Dr. Pallavi Patel, along with their son, daughters, and grandchildren, live inan elegantly built beautiful house with the combined square footage of the buildings within the estate amounts to 35,000 square feet, with the main residence contributing 15,000 square footage of the total. Each of the six satellite homes is more than 7,000 square feet.

Dr. Pallavi serves on many boards and is a member of several organizations. She is president and CEO of Stat Care and Bay Area Primary Care Association, Inc. with five locations across Tampa. She is also a founder, trustee and administrator for the India Cultural Center. She is a member of the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center Board of Trustees, Shakti Krupa Charitable Foundation Board of Directors and the ICC Hope Scholarship Foundation Board of Directors.

In 2003 the couple set up a nonprofit Foundation for Global Understanding. Dr. Kiran Patel serves as the chairman and Dr. Pallavi Patel is president of Foundation that develops and funds a wide variety of programs in health, education, arts and culture. Together they have made possible the USF/Dr. Kiran C. Patel Charter School along with the Dr. Pallavi Patel Pediatric Care Center at the school as well as the highly celebrated Dr. Pallavi Patel Performing Arts Conservatory.

The Patels not only earned a highly cherished reputation as physicians, but also gained a unique vision of the future of the medical care. Rather than shunning the growing trend toward managed health care, they began to develop solutions that made sense from the physician’s point of view.

Recognitions came their way with several awards and honors from around the country. Among the honors and awards that he has received is the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for the Southeast United States, Jefferson Award for Public Service-National Media Award, Community Leader Award-Community Development Corporation of Tampa, Lions Clubs International Academy Award for Humanitarian Service, and Ike Tribble Award from National Urban League.

Volunteers of America, one of the nation’s largest and oldest human services charities, presented its highest honor – the 2012 Ballington and Maud Booth Award – to Drs. Pallavi and Kiran Patel on during the organization’s national conference at the Hyatt Regency Tampa.

On New Year’s day in 2007, Dr. Patel was honored with the “Glory of Gujarat” award from the Chief Minister of his home State in India. In May 2007, Dr. Patel received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for Exceptional Immigrant Patriots. Both Dr. Kiran Patel and Pallavi Patel were inducted into the Tampa Bay Hall of Fame in 2010 by the business community of Tampa Bay.

Dr. Pallavi Patel was honored as the Business Woman of the Year in 2006 for her outstanding role in the community. In 2007, she was awarded Woman of Distinction by the Girls Scouts of Florida, and in 2008 she was inducted into the prestigious Florida Women’s Hall of Fame.

The Patels were selected for the 2012 Booth Award because of their generous philanthropic work to support programs in health, education, arts and culture, both in the Tampa area and around the world. Their foundation supported the Pepin Heart Hospital Research Institute in Tampa as well as the Dr. Pallavi Patel Conservatory for Performing Arts. In 2011, the Dr. Kiran C. Patel for Global Solutions, based at the University of South Florida, was established to develop solutions to some of today’s major global problems.

In 2003, Dr. Kiran Patel was appointed by Florida’s governor to the University of South Florida Board of Trustees. In 2004, the Patel were awarded the Cultural Contributor of the Year Award by the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce. The Foundation also support a yearly U.S. scholarship fund for underprivileged youth and the IMAGINE Project, which teaches philanthropic entrepreneurism to young leaders. USF CHART-India Program, another innovative foundation project, works aggressively to provide HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention and education programs throughout India’s rural and urban populations.

The Patels believe that “education gives the maximum impact. In my father’s village, we built a school that has transformed a generation. Uplifting a single student will uplift five or 10 families.” And the noble mission goes on with no boundaries, benefitting millions of deserving people across all continents.

Miss India New England 2019 brings out personality and tradition

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Entertainment, Fashion, Profiles 0

The 7th annual ‘Miss India New England’ 2019 held on January 19, was a unique blend of talent and a celebration heritage providing a platform to bring out both traditional and modern elements of Indian society.

Participants included women and girls of Indian origin from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. Each had to complete four rounds – Evening Gown, Ethnic Dress, Talent, and On-stage Question. There were three categories of contestants -Miss India, Miss Teen or Mrs India, a press release from organizers said.

Those crowned for the top spots included – Sivani Jonnalagadda, Miss India New England 2019; Mihika Abraham – Miss India Teen New England 2019; and Mrs India New England 2019 Deepa Jayavelu. The pageant was directed and produced by Ruchika Arora who is also state director of Miss India USA.

Organizers with Miss India New England 2019 winner and past winner at Jan. 19 pageant held in Foxborough, MA. (Photo: Miss India New England) of the Miss India New England pageant held

The Miss India New England pageant is designed to identify and support talented young Indian American people and promote culture, traditions of India in United States for modern generations, the press release said.

The Miss India New England 2019 pageant on Jan. 19, attracted participants from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire, who had to compete in four rounds – Evening Gown, Ethnic Dress, Talend, and On-stage Question. (Photo: courtesy Miss India New England)

“The inspirational women introducing themselves on the stage represent strength of Indian American girls/women and community when they talk about their educational background, professional achievements and aspirations” organizers said, thanking all the sponsors, supporters and friends including Neelam and Dr Dharmatma Saran of Worldwide Pageants. Crown sponsors were Tewarie Enterprises.

Deepa Jayavelu, Mrs India New England at the Jan. 19, pageant held in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo: Miss India New England)

List of 2019 Winners:

Miss India New England -Sivani Jonnalagadda

Mrs India New England – Deepa Jayavelu

Miss India Teen New England-Mihika Abraham

Viewer’s Choice NE -Aradhana Surapaneni

Miss India Massachusetts- Ann Varghese

Mrs India Massachusetts- Madhurima Agrawal

Miss India Teen Massachusetts- Trinjan Kaur

Miss India Rhode Island- Sai Kurapati

Mrs India Rhode Island- Medha Rastogi

Miss India New Hampshire- Zaina Ahmed

Mrs India New Hampshire- Preeti Potdar

Mrs India Photogenic- Suruchi Sinha (NH)

Miss India Teen New England 2019 Mihika Abraham. (Photo: Miss India New England)

Teen Awards:

Miss India Teen Catwalk- Aishwarya Narayanan

Miss India Teen Talented- Shruthi Puranik

Miss India Teen Photogenic- Nandini Mandaloju

THE LEAST OF THESE Hosts NYC Red Carpet World Premiere on 20th Anniversary of Historic Event

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Entertainment 0

Dallas-based production company, Skypass Entertainment, hosted VIPs and stars for the red carpet world premiere of its debut film, THE LEAST OF THESE, last night at the SVA Theatre in New York City, prior to the film’s nationwide release on February 1, 2019. The event took place 20 years to the date of the untimely death of Australian missionary Graham Staines, on whom the movie is based.

THE LEAST OF THESE stars Stephen Baldwin (THE USUAL SUSPECTS), actress Shari Rigby (OCTOBER BABY), and Indian cinema star Sharman Joshi (3 IDIOTS), all of whom attended the red carpet premiere.

“I’m speechless,“ said Executive Producer Victor Abraham during a Q&A following the film’s premiere. “It is a humbling experience as an ordinary man that I got the privilege to produce the story of an extraordinary life.”

Shot on location near Hyderabad, India, THE LEAST OF THESE is told through the viewpoint of a fictional character, Manav Banerjee (Joshi), who moves with his pregnant wife

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 23: Victor Abraham and Sheryl Abraham attend the red carpet premiere of Skypass Entertainment’s “The Least of These” at SVA Theater on January 23, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Pont/Getty Images for Skypass Entertainment)

to Orissa, India, seeking a job as a journalist with the local newspaper.

When speculation mounts that Graham Staines (Baldwin) is illegally proselytizing and converting leprosy patients to Christianity, Manav, hoping to make a better life for his new family, agrees to investigate undercover, hoping to catch Staines in the act. What Manav finds is a series of revelations that are difficult to fathom and even harder to explain, forcing him to make a choice between his own ambition and the truth. In the end, a tragic event and a surprising reaction from the Staines family will change Manav forever.

“This has been a project five years in the making, so to be here tonight is incredible,“ said Director Aneesh Daniel. “This was only made possible by the numerous teams working across five continents to bring this story to life.”

THE LEAST OF THESE is being released by Skypass Entertainment. Abraham serves as Executive Producer with Daniel as director. The screenplay was written by Andrew E Matthews.

The film features an impressive soundtrack with an original film score composed by Bruce Retief and performed by the Hungarian Orchestra, original songs from Nicole C. Mullen and Michael W. Smith and tracks from award-winning artists such as Toby Mac, Keith & Kristyn Getty and Anthony Evans. The soundtrack will be available for download on February 1st on iTunes, Spotify and Amazon.

“Our ultimate desire is to take this film to every part of the world, including India,” said Abraham. “We want everyone to see this film because it has a message for all. Each one of us harbors bitterness in our lives toward others but here is a powerful story about forgiveness.”

Prior to the film’s Feb. 1 national release, Fathom Events will host a special showing at theaters across the U.S. on Jan. 31, which includes an exclusive recorded conversation with Christian apologist Ravi Zacharias, actress Shari Rigby and the film’s spiritual consultant, Krish Dhanam. For more information about THE LEAST OF THESE, visithttp://www.theleastofthese.movie.

After caving in, Trump signs bill ending Govt. shutdown

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Politics 0

President Donald Trump signed a bill Friday, January 25th ending the government shutdown, capping off the longest ever US Government shutdown, and reinstating funds until February 15.

After 35 days, Trump backed a deal to fund federal agencies for three weeks, but it includes none of the money he has demanded for a US-Mexico border wall. The Republican president previously vowed to reject any budget unless it included $5.7bn to fund his signature campaign pledge.

But Democrats, who control the House of Representatives, flatly refused. The House and the Senate voted Friday to end the government shutdown, extending funding for three weeks, following a deal being reached between Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

The US economy lost $11 billion during the month-plus hiatus because of lost productivity and business, according to a finance industry estimate – more than the $5.7bn of taxpayer funding the president demanded for his long-promised wall along the US-Mexico border but failed to get Congress to agree to.

The decision marked a significant climb-down by the president. Less than 24 hours before he spoke in the White House Rose Garden, Trump demanded that any solution from Congress should include a “large down payment” for his long-promised wall along the southern border.

On Friday, however, intensifying delays at airports across the north-east and fresh polling that revealed mounting public frustration provided new urgency for efforts to break the impasse.

“We have reached a deal to end the shutdown and reopen the federal government,” Trump said, despite there being no fresh offer from Democratsthat could be termed a “deal”.

But he reminded Americans he had a “powerful alternative”, threatening to declare a national emergency if a deal for wall funding is not reached before the next deadline to fund the government.

“Let me be very clear,” Trump said, “we really have no choice but to build a powerful wall or steel barrier. If we don’t get a fair deal from Congress, the government will either shut down on 15 February again, or I will use the powers afforded to me under the law and the constitution of the US to address this emergency.”

15th Edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas concludes in Varanasi

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, India 0

The 15th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas 2019, a gathering of expatriate Indians, came to a close here in the holy city of Varanasi with the call by Prime Minster Narendra Modi to join hands to build a new India. The theme for PBD 2019 was “Role of Indian Diaspora in building New India”

Noting that love for the soil has “pulled you all to PBD conclave”, Modi called upon “the ambassadors of India” living abroad to motivate at least five families around them to come to India. “Your efforts will play an important role in enhancing tourism in the country.”

More than 5,000 people from over 90 countries, including the United States, heard promises from Modi that are pleasing to their ears, including that the government was making efforts to ease the processes concerning their social security, passport, visa and PIO and OCI cards, and that the work is on to issue chip-based e-passports.

In addition to Modi, President of India Ram Nath Kovind, Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, the chief guest at the event, as well as External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the largest-ever diaspora gathering. Modi and his ministers urged them to participate in building a New India, especially in research and innovation.

Among those who attended the event from the U.S. included Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Chairman Thomas Abraham and its president Sunny Kulathakal. GOPIO organized a convention in conjunction with the PBD in Varanasi. Among other U.S.-based NRIs attending the event were Subash Razdan, Chairman of Atlanta-based Gandhi Foundation of USA as well as Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Chairman, Mississippi State Board of Mental Health and president of Indian American Forum for Political Education.

A total of 30 people, including four from the U.S., were given the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards. The awardees included Florida cardiologist and philanthropist Dr. Kiran Patel (in medical science), Chandra Shekhar Mishra, a senior scientist at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), USA (in science), IMF chief Gita Gopinath (in academics) and Gitesh Jayantilal Desai, president of SEWA International’s Houston, Texas chapter, (in structural engineering).

“Today, India is in the position to lead the world in several subjects. International Solar Alliance (ISA) is one such platform. Through this medium, we want to take the world towards ‘One World, One Sun, One Grid’,” Modi said, inaugurating the PBD January 22.

“People used to say that India cannot change,” he said. “We have changed this thinking. We have made changes,” he said. Modi said, alluding to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi’s comment that only 15 paise of Rs 1 that the central government sends from Delhi reaches the people, no attempt was made by the Congress party government to stop this loot. “The country’s middle class continued to pay taxes honestly, and 85 per cent of this loot continued,” Modi said in what sounded like a campaign speech.

Modi said that the changes that are coming in India are becoming new opportunities. “We have plugged the loopholes in the system with the help of technology. The loot of public money has been stopped and 85 percent of the lost money has been made available and transferred directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries. “Our government is moving towards ensuring that the aid given by government is directly transferred to beneficiary accounts through direct benefit schemes,” Modi said.

“In this changing India, you can play a big role in research and development and innovation. The government is also trying to bring Indian start-ups and NRI mentors together on one platform. Defense manufacturing can also be an important sector for you,” Modi said, describing NRIS as India’s brand ambassadors who were the symbols of the country’s capabilities. Modi called this year’s PBD the “most successful” event saying the people of Varanasi, which is his Lok Sabha constituency, have taken ownership of the three-day jamboree.

Mauritian Premier Jugnauth hailed Modi for India’s transformation through initiatives such as the Skill India and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao schemes. Jugnauth announced that his country will hold a Bhagwad Gita Mahotsav next month and a Bhojpuri Festival next year.

The President of India Ram Nath Kovind, addressed the concluding gathering Jan. 23, stressing the important role Indians abroad played for India as one of the largest diasporas in the world. “India today is a land of a billion ideas. India today is a land of a billion opportunities,” Kovind said.

President Kovind noted the immense cultural wealth of the people who left the country. “In the past, our ancestors travelled to Southeast Asia as merchants and as monks. Much later, many lived and prospered as traders and entrepreneurs along the Silk Route. And more than a century ago, under the indenture system, we witnessed millions of our people crossing the seven seas,” Kovind is reported to have said, according to a press release from his office. “The world has moved a long way since for our diaspora. They are commanding global heights today, while embracing their cultural ethos and diversity. And while they do so, they must also preserve and strengthen their unity as a community.”

The President said the Indian diaspora’s success and hard work have set an example. They are the face of India and its identity abroad. We are proud of them and their achievements. But what really makes their contributions stand out are the values that they espouse and live for. These are values that intrinsically remain Indian.

The Youth PBD along with the Uttar Pradesh State PBD was held Jan. 21, jointly inaugurated by India’s Minsiter for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports. At this event, India’s former Consul General in New York Dnyaneshwar Mulay, now secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs for Overseas Indian Affairs, gave the welcome remarks. A plenary session facilitated interaction with members of the diaspora. The gathering was also addressed by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath, who hosted a dinner the same night. Youth delegates at the convention visited Banaras Hindu University on the campus.

On the formal inauguration day, others who addressed the gathering apart from Modi, included Swaraj, Adityanath, Jugnauth, and Singh. A “Bharat Ko Janiya Quiz” Award ceremony was also held. The plenary sessions included, “Role of India Diaspora in Capacity Building for Affordable Solar Power,” and another on “Giving Back to India: Opportunities and Challenges.” Dinner was hosted by Minister Swaraj.

A unique feature of the conclave this year was that the delegates were taken to the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad and from there to Delhi to witness the Republic Day parade on January 26. The trips, officials said, were in deference to the wishes of the delegates. A series of plenary sessions were held during the last day: Indian Community Organizations Working for Indian Nationals in Distressed Situation; Role of Indian Diaspora in Capacity Building for Affordable Waste Management; Indian Diaspora’s Role in Capacity Building of Artificial Intelligence in India: and Developing Cyber Capacity of India.

Dr. Sudha Parikh receives award for philanthropic work

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Education, Women 0

Dr. Sudha S. Parikh, an anesthesiologist in tri-state area, was awarded the Nari Udyami Award for her philanthropic work at a ceremony in India on Jan. 23. On the concluding day of the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Varanasi, at an event entitled “She The Change: Nari Udyami Award” several pravasi Indians were recognized for their work relating to women’s empowerment.

Dr. Sudha Parikh received the award for her work with girl’s education and women’s empowerment through various non-profits like Akshay Patra, Share and Care, and Project Life. Dr. Sudha Parikh is the wife of Padma Shri Dr. Sudhir Parikh, founder and chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold.

Dr. Sudha Parikh, philanthropist and vice chairperson of ITV Gold, 9th from left in back row, holding the award along with other’s recognized during the “She The Change: Nari Udyami Award 2019” event in Varanasi, Jan. 23, organized by the Beti & Shiksha Foundation. The event was held on the last day of the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas.

“I feel great and humble to get this award … along with very accomplished women. I thank the BS Foundation (Beti Shiksha Foundation) for recognizing my work and inspiring me to do more work helpful to the community,” Dr. Sudha Parikh said in an interview to ITV Gold. “Women’s education is the most important because if one woman is educated in the family, she will educate a whole family and she can uplift a whole family,” she said.

Dr. Sudha Parikh, who is also the vice chairperson of ITV Gold, urged other social workers and those interested in philanthropy to join in helping to empower women and children through education and with other needs such as health services, and training in skills so that they can earn a living.

“I am connected with a few organizations like Share and Care and Akshay Patra,” which raise funds to help with children and women’s empowerment, and hot school lunches that keep kids in school, she noted.

Padma Shri Dr. Sudhir Parikh, founder and chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold, seen at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Jan. 23, in Varanasi, with Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee, the daughter of the youngest son of Mahatma Gandhi, Devadas, and daughter-in-law, Lakshmi Gandhi. She has been dedicated to the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, and also works for rural women and children with the Kasturba Gandhi National Memorial Trust established by Mahatma Gandhi.

Dr. Sudhir Parikh praised the Beti & Shiksha Foundation for its work and said he felt “very humble and very grateful” for the recognition accorded to Dr. Sudha Parikh. “Because this kind of recognition encourages us to work harder for women’s empowerment , women’s education, and women’s health.”

These kinds of recognition, “is like an adrenalin for us to keep working in our senior age. We are both in our 70s, but we are working relentlessly on these kinds of philanthropic work,” Dr. Sudhir Parikh said.

He reiterated his belief that “The more you give the more you become,” and that giving to society was a “double pleasure.”

A performance by Deepak Maharaj, son of Birju Maharaj, at the ‘SheThe Change: Nari Udyami Award” ceremony Jan. 23, in Prayagraj (Varanasi) on the last day of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.

“When you are giving, it is a pleasure for you, and when you look at the person receiving it, look at his smile and satisfaction, that gives us another pleasure,” he said.

“I would encourage people to support female members of the family to go out and help the poorest of the poor and children in society because it lifts the whole family,” Dr. Sudhir Parikh said.

The B & S Foundation was founded in 2008, because of the “persistent gender inequalities in India and the sheer need of finding non-traditional, high-return livelihood options for poor women,” in urban and rural areas, according to the website. The organization operates in Delhi, as well as in Jammu & Kashmir and North-Eastern states in India. “Our aim is to level the employment field for disadvantaged women by providing livelihoods options that enhance women’s economic status, dignity, and decision-making within their families.” It does this through its WE-SHAKTI program aimed at empowering women with minimal economic and social capital to become professional commercial drivers.

Renu Gupta received the She The Change – Nari Udhyami Sanman 2019

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Education 0

Renu Gupta received the She The Change – Nari Udhyami Sanman 2019 for her lifelong efforts in bringing about a positive change in the lives of people in India and the US. The award, conferred by the Beti & Shiksha Foundation in Varanasi, India was presented by Tara Gandhi, granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi and Baby Rani Maurya, Governor of Uttarkhand. While happy at the honor, Renu downplays her achievements and says there are many people who are doing as much work as she is and she just “happened to be lucky” that she was recognized.

This is typical of the friendly no nonsense awardee who doesn’t believe in doing “anything that doesn’t make sense to her,” but will do whatever it takes to help someone in need.

Renu, 61, spent her growing years in Rajasthan where she completed her studies in Sanskrit and English. Marriage to Dr. Arun Gupta, a scientist, brought her to the US where she plunged into a job, studies and community activities.

She credits two strong influences in her life. Her maternal grandmother who instilled the values of Hindu dharma and her paternal grandfather from whom she absorbed the spirit of selfless service. The appeal of Hindu Dharma, observes Renu, is its “universality, logic and its step by step direction for self-realization.” She is “very comfortable being a Hindu in the US” and accepts other religious traditions with the same openness.

A member of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad America for the last 36 years and now serving as VP of Seva in VHPA, Renu spearheaded a group of 15 likeminded women for “Seva, Shakti and Sadhana.” All activities are geared towards this mission such as organizing spiritual retreats, workshops and serving the community. In 2008, she received a call from a Catholic Service coordinator who asked for help in rehabilitating 50 refugee Bhutanese and Nepali families. Over the course of 10 years, the VHPA group worked with the refugees to set up their homes, taught them to clean houses and drive so they could find employment, file taxes and helped their children enroll in school.

Five years ago she took up the “Support A Child” project – a VHPA initiative that was languishing for want of attention. The initiative raises funds for the education and boarding of under privileged children in India and her efforts helped the support grow from 700 children to 2500 children. Renu makes it a point to visit the Ekal schools and the SAC hostels every year to supervise its operations personally. Plans for the future include increasing the number of children in the program from 2500 to 5000.

One of the original volunteers of Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA, Renu was elected as the first woman to become the chairperson of the Board. Renu’s husband Dr. Arun Gupta, is equally engaged in Ekal and serves as a Board Director.

Renu also spends time teaching Hindi and Hindu culture to children in Cincinnati, Ohio where she is based. Role models, for our children, she inserts, must be characters like Mirabai, Shivaji, Maharana Pratap and Laxmi Bai. Playing on the word “Hindi medium” she enjoins Indian American parents to “raise their children through the Hindu medium and teach them values of Hindu dharma.”

Growing up, Renu was often buried in books thanks to a friend’s father who owned a bookstore. Writing came naturally and she has several books to her credit. Her experiences and observations in America served as fodder for her books. Close to her heart is “Mrityorma Ma Amritam Gamay” and deals with a friend’s battle with cancer while her latest book “Sansari Sanyasi” is a biography of Hanuman Prasad Poddar, a saintly personality who played a key role in her spiritual journey.

Renu, along with her husband and son is also actively engaged in running the dozen franchisees of Great Clips – the hair salon chain they own.

Indian-Americans celebrate Republic Day across US with pledges to uphold the Constitution and combat hate

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC), an advocacy group dedicated to safeguarding India’s pluralist and tolerant ethos, marked India’s 70th Republic Day on Saturday January 26, 2019, with celebrations at chapters across the United States.

This year’s Republic Day celebrations continue in a tradition IAMC has established over the last 17 years of celebrating the adoption of India’s Constitution and its fundamental emphasis on pluralism and equality before the law for people of all faiths.

At the chapter event in South Brunswick., NJ, board member Mr. Jawad Mohammed remarked, “The Constitution of India was shaped by the diverse nature of India; its diversity of languages, religions, and ethnic communities. Thus, with its adoption, India became a sovereign, secular, democratic Republic and its foundations of liberty, justice and equality became integrated into the fabric of the nation. It is truly an extraordinary document.”

Mohammed also drew attention to the fact that the Constitution of India was under a sustained attack on account of the shrinking space for religious freedom of minorities and human rights violations of minorities, “lower castes” and women.

The commemoration in Dallas was held at Fun Asia in Richardson, TX. IAMC-Dallas President Rahmath Baig said “We hold the constitutions of both the United States and India in high regard as Indian-Americans, and have a duty to preserve the ideals of both.” Richardson, TX, Mayor Mark Soloman, and City Councilman Bob Doobay were also in attendance. Councilman Doobay expressed his felicitations on the 70th Republic Day celebrations as well as his appreciation for the Indian American Muslim Council promoting peace, equality and a commitment to uphold civil liberties.

IAMC-Dallas member Arshad Qawi noted, “We are extremely proud of our Indian heritage. India is blessed to have a constitution which protects basic civil liberties and secular principles. Unfortunately the socio-political environment in India today is marked by an unprecedented level of intolerance and religious bigotry. It’s imperative upon all of us as responsible members of the diaspora, to get involved and make a concerted effort to promote peace and social justice for all.”

The events included fun activities for children including a Drawing Competition, as well as Fancy Dress and Spot Quiz Contests based on Indian themes. The US national anthem was followed by the national anthem of India.

Speaking on the theme for the occasion “Strength in diversity,” IAMC Vice President, Syed Afzal Ali, said “we gather today to recommit ourselves to the founding principles of the Constitution of liberty, equality and justice for all. We want to leave the world better for our children and that requires us to push back against the tide of hate and destruction and continue to build bridge of unity and hope. As Indian Americans dedicated to pluralism and human rights, we have a double reason to celebrate the founding of the Indian Republic. IAMC’s Republic Day celebrations are an expression of profound appreciation for the ideals of justice, pluralism and democracy – the shared values of India and the United States.”

Indian American Muslim Council is the largest advocacy organization of Indian Muslims in the United States with chapters across the nation. For more information, please visit our website at: www.iamc.com

78% Americans support high-skilled immigrants to US: Survey

January 29, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Travel 0

A new survey shows that majority of Americans support high-skilled immigration contrary to a perception that high-skilled immigrants are displacing Americans as argued by the Trump administration to overhaul the H-1B programme, a major route for foreign professionals.

Roughly eight in ten adult Americans — 78% — support encouraging highly skilled people to immigrate and work in the US, a report by Pew based on a survey of 12 countries said on Tuesday.

The support was around the same as in other advanced countries, but lower than in Sweden (88%) , the United Kingdom (85%), Canada (84%), Germany (81%) and Australia (79%).

The finding for the United States runs contrary to negative perception of the H-1B visa programme, which is a major route for high-skilled immigrants, among critics who say it has been misused to displace Americans with cheaper workers provided by outsourcing companies.

Supporters of the programme have argued it helps American companies make up for the shortage of locally available hands.

Siding with the critics, the Trump administration is in the midst of overhauling the system by raising the bar to qualify as highly skilled, and tightening rules for entry of foreigners in US schools and colleges, which industry sources say, have made the process cumbersome, unpredictable and expensive.

Asked about this gap between the opposition and public support, Pew senior researcher Phillip Connor, who also co-authored the report, said, “Those in the US who have more education are more likely to support the immigration of highly skilled people. Similarly, those in the US with a higher income are more likely to support the immigration of highly skilled people.”

Thousands of foreign professionals enter the US workforce every year through optional practical training (OPT) for students and H-1B. A large number of them stay on, if sponsored, by their employers to join the queue for citizenship, going first through acquiring permanent residency (Green Card).

There is a long waiting period for Indian applicants for Green Card, with one estimate putting over 100 years, because of backlog that piles up higher every year, because of a system that places a country-cap, a limit on the number of Green Cards given to people from any one country. And efforts are on to find a solution, legislatively, as the debate continues on the advantages and disadvantages of high skilled immigration.

American Telugu Association elects Parmesh Bheemreddy as new President

January 29, 2019 Asian Media USACommunity, Profiles 0

ATA, American Telugu Association, a 28 year old Telugu Organization serving the interests of ever burgeoning Telugu Community in USA elected Parmesh Bheemreddy as its new President. Mr. Bheemreddy was sworn in as the President on January 19th at the board meeting held in Lasvegas. Born in Pothireddypadu village of Nagarkurnool district of Telangana Mr. Bheemreddy came to US on a student visa to pursue higher education in Computer Science. Being a software professional himself, established a firm and helped many students and professional from India to settle down in US. Married to a cardiologist Sarita, Bheemreddy is a well-known Community Volunteer, co-founder of Palamuru NRI forum and conducted various charity activities across the district. An avid community activist, Mr. Bheemreddy has been an integral part of ATA since Inception and served in various positions like Secretary for the 12th Convention and as a Convener for the Philadelphia Conference in 2014.

ATA board was sworn in on the occasion as well, raising the Board of Trustees count from 27 to 31. Mr. Bhuvanesh Boojala from DC Metropolitan area was elected unanimously as the President Elect. ATA elected Venu Sankineni as Secretary, Sharath Vemula as Joint Secretary, Ravi Patlola as Treasurer and Arvind Muppidi as Joint Treasurer. ATA Advisory Chair Hanmanth Reddy garu congratulated the new board and wished them luck in its future endeavors.

Presiding over the board meeting, the new president not only vowed to preserve and strengthen the Telugu community across North America but also promised to further promote the literary, cultural, social, educational and rich cultural values of the community strictly abiding by the constitution of ATA. Unveiling his vision, Mr. Bheemreddy quoted that ATA under his leadership will include focus areas like immigration, SAT Training, exchange student onboarding procedures, Medical and Dental camps for Senior Citizens and Visitors, Matrimonial and Emergency Services. Mr. Bheemreddy was ecstatic to announce that the new ATA Foundation Scholarship program will award 10 scholarships to meritorious students of economically backward classes of $1000 each. Mr. Bheemreddy thanked the outgoing President Karunakar Asireddy, EC and board for its outstanding contribution to ATA and expanding the organization to new areas like Nashville and Boston areas.

Sen. Kamala Harris, 1st ever Indian American, announces bid for US president

January 23, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Politics 0

Kamala Harris, 54, the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India, has announced her decision to enter the crowded political field of Democratic candidates, seeking to unseat incumbent, President Donald Trump.

Kamala Harris announced Monday, January 21^st, that she is running for president in 2020, arguing that the time has come to fight against what she views as the injustices of the past two years of the Trump presidency.

Harris chose to announce on Monday to honor the legacies of two of her heroes. Forty-seven years ago this week, Shirley Chisholm, the first black woman ever to run for president, launched her campaign. And Martin Luther King Jr. has been a role model for Harris throughout her life in what she views as his “aspirational fight for progress.”

In a brief video from her campaign that was released on social media Monday morning at the same time she appeared on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” Harris called on her supporters to join with her to “claim our future.”

“Justice. Decency. Equality. Freedom. Democracy. These aren’t just words. They’re the values we as Americans cherish. And they’re all on the line now,” Harris said in the video, teasing her official kickoff in her birthplace of Oakland next Sunday.

“The future of our country depends on you and millions of others lifting our voices to fight for our American values,” the Democratic California senator said. “That’s why I’m running for president of the United States. “I’m running to lift those voices, to bring our voices together.”

Harris is the first African-American woman and the first Indian American to announce a run for the White House in 2020, and the fourth woman in the field. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu seeking the highest office, also announced earlier this month that she is running, and Democratic Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Kirsten Gillibrand of New York have both announced exploratory committees, a step that Harris is skipping.

In a 2020 field that now includes four women, her allies believe that her life’s work as a prosecutor — from her start in Alameda County trying grisly crimes such as sexual assault to felonies including homicide — will help set her apart. The style developed over those years helped her build a national following when she grilled President Donald Trump’s nominees, including Brett Kavanaugh when he was a Supreme Court nominee.

Her book tour earlier this month served as a soft launch for her presidential bid, showcasing her strong appeal among women, minorities and millennials — as well as the criticism she will face over aspects of her long and complex record as a prosecutor, district attorney of San Francisco and attorney general of California.

Harris sought to use the anecdotes in the new book to demonstrate her toughness, including how she took on the big banks as California’s attorney general after the foreclosure crisis and held out for a $20 billion settlement for California homeowners. The clear subtext throughout her appearances was that she would not be bullied by anyone, including Trump.

While avoiding directly engaging Trump, Harris has accused the President of stoking racist and xenophobic rhetoric, while aligning his administration with white supremacists at home, and cozying up to dictators abroad.

She has argued that the needs of the middle class have been ignored, citing the federal shutdown over the President’s “vanity project” — a border wall — as the latest example.

Harris’ campaign will be headquartered in Baltimore — giving aides an East Coast hub in a racially diverse city that has struggled with wide income disparities — and Oakland, where Harris was born to immigrant parents who came to the US to advance their academic careers.

The former prosecutor chose yellow and red for her campaign logo in a nod to Chisholm’s bid for president with its red and yellow campaign buttons. Her signs will carry her campaign theme “Kamala Harris for the people,” the words that she spoke each time she rose in the courtroom as a prosecutor.

Juan Rodriguez, the strategist who managed Harris’ successful campaign for Senate in 2016 and advised California Gov. Gavin Newsom in his recent campaign, will be her campaign manager. Her sister Maya Harris, who advised Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, will serve as her campaign chair. She will continue to be guided by her longtime strategists Sean Clegg and Ace Smith.

Prime Minister to inaugurate 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas Convention in Varanasi on 22 January, 2019

January 23, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion, India, Politics 0

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas Convention at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh tomorrow on 22 January, 2019.

For the first time, the three day long convention is being organized in Varanasi from 21-23 January, 2019. The theme of PBD Convention 2019 is “Role of Indian Diaspora in building New India”.

In reverence to the sentiments of the larger diaspora to participate in Kumbh Mela and Republic Day celebrations, the 15th PBD Convention is being organised from 21 to 23 January 2019 instead of 9th January. After the Convention, participants will visit Prayagraj for Kumbh Mela on 24th January. They will then proceed to Delhi on 25th January and witness the Republic Day Parade at New Delhi on 26th January 2019.

Prime Minister of Mauritius Mr. Pravind Jugnauth will be the chief guest of the PBD convention. Mr. Himanshu Gulati, Member of Parliament of Norway, will be the Special Guest while Mr. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Member of Parliament of New Zealand will be the Guest of Honor at the 15th edition of PBD.

Key events of this edition include-

21 January, 2019- Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. The event will provide opportunities for the young Diaspora to engage with New India.

22 January 2019 – Inauguration of PBD convention by Prime Minister in presence of Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Jugnauth.

23 January 2019 – Valedictory Session & Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards by the President of India.

Various plenary sessions are also scheduled during the event. The evenings are marked with cultural programs.

The decision to celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) was taken by the former Indian Prime Minister, late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The 1st PBD was celebrated on 9th January, 2003 in New Delhi. January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate PBD as it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi, had returned to India from South Africa.

PBD now celebrated once in every two years, provides a platform to the overseas Indian community to engage with the government and reconnect with their roots. During the Convention, Pravasi Bharatiya Samman is conferred on the selected overseas Indians for their significant contributions to various fields both in India and abroad.

14th PBD held during 7–9 January 2017 at Bengaluru, Karnataka was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The theme for the 14th PBD was “Redefining engagement with the Indian diaspora”. In his address, Mr. Modi had said that Indian diaspora represents the best of Indian culture, ethos and values and are respected for their contributions. He underlined the importance of a continuous engagement with the overseas Indian community as a key area of priority for the Government.

The longest ever US Government Shutdown

January 23, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Politics 0

The partial US government shutdown has passed full one month, which makes it the longest gap in American government funding ever. That beats the previous record, under President Bill Clinton in 1995, of 21 days.

In total, there have been 21 gaps in government funding since 1976, though the level of shutdown has varied. The current federal shutdown is a partial one, as many agencies were already funded through this fiscal year, which ends in September.

The roots of today’s dysfunction date back to some critical decisions starting in the 1970s. Here’s a look at why the American government has lurched into crisis over the budget so often since then.

Before the 1970s, the federal government would in some cases spend money without prior congressional approval, said Jim Broussard, the director of the Center for Political History at Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pa

A 1974 law reorganized the budgeting process, shifting power from the executive branch to Congress. Tense disagreements quickly emerged.

In 1977, the House of Representatives and the Senate fought over whether Medicaid should be used to pay for abortions. That led to three separate instances in which the government could not provide funding for the Departments of Labor and Health, Education and Welfare. The shutdowns added up to a total of 28 days that year.

Another gap in funding the following year, when President Jimmy Carter took issue with a costly public works bill and defense spending, lasted 17 days.

Two legal opinions issued by the United States attorney general, Benjamin R. Civiletti, in 1980 and 1981, made shutdowns much more severe.

Until that point, most agencies could continue to operate even if funding bills hadn’t been passed, with the understanding that money would eventually be approved. But Mr. Civiletti argued that it was illegal for the government to spend money without congressional appropriations. The few exceptions included work by federal employees to protect life and property, he wrote.

That, in turn, prompted an increased frequency of small shutdowns as politicians struggled with deadlines, said Roy T. Meyers, a political science professor at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, who has written about the history of shutdowns.

In November 1981, President Ronald Reagan, in a fight with Congress over $8.5 billion in budget cuts he wanted, ordered the furlough of 241,000 government employees. It was the first time a shutdown of that size was ordered.

A congressional subcommittee estimated that the two-day shutdown cost taxpayers between $80 million and $90 million, including administrative costs, such as figuring out who could and couldn’t work and paying workers who didn’t work.

Shutdowns that included furloughs in 1984, 1986 and 1990 cost taxpayers at least $128 million, according to government estimates. The longest previous shutdown came in 1995. At issue was a long-term budget backed by Republicans, who won control of both the House and the Senate halfway through Mr. Clinton’s first term.

Their plan limited spending for Medicare and turned Medicaid and most other welfare programs over to the states. House Republicans, in particular, were keen on using a shutdown to get Mr. Clinton to sign their bill.

A five-day shutdown in November was followed by the record-breaker — 21 days — starting in mid-December. That conflagration helped pave the way for the 2013 shutdown over President Barack Obama’s health care law.

The 2013 shutdown lasted for 16 days and ended amid dire warnings from the Treasury Department that it was about to run out of money. Having failed in their bid to defund Obamacare, Republicans leaders eventually worked with their Democratic counterparts on a plan to reopen the government and raise the debt ceiling. “We’ve got to get out of the habit of governing by crisis,” Mr. Obama said at the time.

Indra Nooyi being considered to lead World Bank

January 23, 2019 Staff ReporterBusiness, Community 0

Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of global beverage giant PepsiCo, is being considered by the White House for the new World Bank president, according to a leading American daily. Nooyi, 63, stepped down as PepsiCo’s chief last August after leading the company for 12 years.

The Indian born business leader “has been courted as an administration ally by Ivanka Trump, the President’s eldest daughter who is playing a role in the selection of a nominee,” The New York Times said.

The report, which cited several people familiar with the process, said the decision-making process for the top post at the World Bank is “fluid and in its initial stages and early front-runners and candidates often fall off the radar, or withdraw from consideration, before the president [Donald Trump] makes his ultimate pick”.

It is unclear whether Ms. Nooyi would accept the nomination if chosen by the Trump administration. The first daughter, who has tweeted that she views Ms. Nooyi as a “mentor + inspiration”, has floated her name as a potential successor.

World Bank’s current president Jim Yong-kim had earlier this month announced that he would step down from his post in February to join a private infrastructure investment firm. His unexpected departure came nearly three years before the end of his term.

The NYT report said that the process of choosing Mr. Kim’s successor is being overseen by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, acting chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and Ms. Ivanka, whose role in the process was announced by the White House last week.

Ivanka’s “role in the process drew some criticism from ethics watchdogs on Monday, which said it could pose a conflict of interest for the President’s daughter to be involved in international economic matters when she has not completely divested from her assets,” the report said.

The group was expected to begin the interview process on Tuesday, in order to present President Trump with recommendations for a nominee.

Nooyi joined Mr. Trump’s business council, which was disbanded after many chief executives quit following the President’s comments blaming “many sides” for white supremacist violence in Charlottesville, in August 2017.

The report, however, added that negative comments made by Ms. Nooyi after the 2016 election, during which she did not publicly endorse any candidate, are seen as a potential roadblock to her nomination.

Following Mr. Trump’s win, she said at The NYT’s DealBook conference in 2016 that “Our employees are all crying. And the question that they’re asking, especially those who are not white: ‘Are we safe?’ Women are asking: ‘Are we safe?’ LGBT people are asking: ‘Are we safe?’ I never thought I’d have had to answer those questions”.

A spokesman for PepsiCo had told Fortune magazine that “Ms. Nooyi misspoke. She was referring to the reaction of a group of employees she spoke to who were apprehensive about the outcome of the election. She never intended to imply that all employees feel the same way”.

Other candidates

Other candidates being considered for the position of World Bank head are under secretary of the Treasury for International Affairs David Malpass and president of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation Ray Washburne.

The U.S. President cannot install the World Bank leader, who must be approved by the bank’s board, but has traditionally placed his nominee in the job. Trump has already faced harsh criticism for appointing his daughter as a senior White House adviser.

Ivanka is a successful businesswoman, fashion designer, author and reality television personality. She has her own line of fashion items, including clothes, handbags, shoes, accessories which are available in all major U.S. departmental stores.

Donald Trump nominates three Indian-Americans to key administration post

January 23, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Politics 0

U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated three Indian-Americans to key administration positions, as per the latest list of senior nominations sent by the White House to the Senate.

Rita Baranwal has been nominated for the post of Assistant Secretary of Energy (Nuclear Energy), Aditya Bamzai for Member of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, and Bimal Patel as the Assistant Secretary of Treasury.

The intent to nominate Ms. Baranwal, Mr. Bamzai and Mr. Patel was announced by Mr. Trump earlier, but the nomination was sent to the Senate last week. So far, Mr. Trump has nominated or appointed more than three dozen Indian Americans in key positions.

Nikki Haley, the first Cabinet-ranking Indian-American and Raj Shah, the first Indian-American deputy Press Secretary have left the Trump administration. Ms. Baranwal holds the post of Director, Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) initiative.

If confirmed by the Senate, as Assistant Secretary of Energy Ms. Baranwal will be heading the powerful Office of Nuclear Energy. She will also be responsible for the department’s nuclear technology research and the development and management of the department’s nuclear technology infrastructure.

Ms. Baranwal previously, she served as director of the Technology Development and Application at Westinghouse and was a manager in Materials Technology at Bechtel Bettis, where she led research and development in nuclear fuel materials for U.S. naval reactors.

A Yale graduate, Mr. Bamzai teaches and writes about civil procedure, administrative law, federal courts, national security law and computer crime. He has earlier served as a law clerk to Justice Antonin Scalia of the U.S. Supreme Court and to Judge Jeffrey Sutton of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

Before entering the academy, Mr. Bamzai served as an attorney-adviser in the Office of legal counsel of the U.S. Department of Justice, and as an appellate attorney in both private practice and for the National Security Division of the justice department.

Patel currently serves as deputy assistant secretary of the Treasury for the Financial Stability Oversight Council. Prior to joining the United States Department of the Treasury, Mr. Patel was a partner and head of the Financial Advisory and Regulation practice in Washington, DC, office of O’Melveny & Myers LLP, the White House said.

Mr. Patel previously served as senior advisor to Director Jeremiah O Norton on the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. He also served as an adjunct associate professor at Stanford University, teaching an undergraduate course on banking regulation.

The Akshaya Patra Foundation Awarded the Prestigious Gandhi Peace Prize

January 23, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Education 0

On January 16, 2019 the esteemed Gandhi Peace Prize was conferred upon Akshaya Patra for their contribution in providing mid-day meals to millions of school children in India. The International Gandhi Peace Prize, named after Mahatma Gandhi, is awarded by the Government of India to individuals and institutions for their contribution towards social, political and economic transformation through non-violence and other Gandhian methods.

The jury under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and comprising of Justice Ranjan Gogoi, the Chief Justice of India; Smt Sumitra Mahajan, Speaker of Lok Sabha; Shri Mallikarjuna Kharge, Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in Lok Sabha; Shri L.K. Advani, Member of Parliament unitedly announced the award.

Prime Minister Modi applauded the dedicated work of Akshaya Patra in saying, “The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s determined efforts ensure nutritious meals for many. Their outstanding work has also ensured more children go to school. I congratulate them for the Gandhi Peace Prize, 2016.” The award is an annual prize but no winner had been conferred the honor since 2014.

The announcement of the award on January 16th encompassed 2015-2018. The award was instituted in 1995 during the commemoration of the 125th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It carries an award of Rs one crore along with a citation and plaque. Previous winners of the Gandhi Peace Prize include Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Vaclav Havel, Ramakrishna Mission and other venerable individuals and organizations.

Extending humble gratitude, Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman of The Akshaya Patra Foundation said, “Thank you Prime Minister Modiji for the Gandhi Peace Prize. Your constant patronage for Akshaya Patra’s mission from beginning days as Chief Minister of Gujarat and as Prime Minister has been a big strength.” ABOUT THE AKSHAYA PATRA FOUNDATION Akshaya Patra means the unlimited bowl of abundance and sustenance. Started in 2000, the pilot program served 1500 children daily in 5 schools. Today the organization feeds 1.76 million school children daily in 14,702 schools across 12 states. The state of the art kitchens provide fresh, nutritious hot meals to counter the issues of malnutrition and support the right to an education for children from socio-economically deprived backgrounds. To learn more about The Akshaya Patra Foundation, please visit www.FoodForEducation.org

New Community Civic-Engagement group, the Voice of Indian-American Voters Launches

January 23, 2019 Asian Media USACommunity, Finance/Economy, Politics 0

Chicago IL: VIA Voters is a new community group launched with the goal of increasing the civic engagement of Indian-Americans in Chicagoland & nationally. The founding members of the group are prominent business persons and community members Mr Sanjjeev Singh, Dr. Anuja Gupta & Dr Bharat Barai. “We felt there was a need for a Non-Partisan Platform that promoted the civic engagement of the Indian-Americans at the local and national levels” said the founders. The top goals of the group include seeking a better level of engagement with elected officials, creating a more informed voter base and increasing the participation of Indian-Americans in the election process.

The VIA Voters was officially Launched at the Waterford Banquets, Elmhurst IL on Sunday, January 13th 2019. Several community business persons, leaders and the media attended this event. “In our businesses we often need to interact with elected public officials and a big goal for me to initiate such a cause was to seek a better level of engagement with them” said Dr. Anuja Gupta. Dr. Gupta is a physician and real-estate developer of Verandah Retirement Community. She is also an active community leader, having founded the Womens Empowerment Campaign (WE) Chicago a networking & empowerment platform for Indian women in Chicagoland. “Indian-Americans are the most successful minority in the country, yet currently we do not get the attention we deserve from elected officials because there is no significant powerful group” said Mr Sanjjeev Singh, president of ASAR America, Inc. a technology company based in Naperville, IL.

The participation of Indian-Americans in the election process is sadly much below the national average. “As a community we need to be more involved in the voting process. The time has come to engage more seriously in our civic responsibility in keeping with our economic & social success” added Dr. Bharat Barai. Dr. Barai is a practicing Oncologist & president of Prime Partners Inc based in Indiana. Dr. Barai is widely regarded as the pillar of the Indian community and played a prominent role in many high-level community events including the World Hindu Congress, the Federation of Indian Associations among others.

The Leadership Council of the group includes prominent citizens & community leaders of local organizations including Gulzar Singh president Pan Oceanic Inc, Nimish Jani trustee Schaumburg Township, Kanti S Patel president Gujarat Cultural Society, Vidya Joshi secretary Bruhan Mumbai Maharashtra, Syed Hussaini vice-president of commercial loans at Wintrust Bank, Khaja Moinuddin trustee Hanover Township, Ulka Nagarkar member Maharashtra Mandal, Girish Kapur member United Punjabi Association, Shree Guruswamy member Chicago Andhra Association, Vandana Jhingan TV Asia, Keerthi Ravoorie member Indian-American Democrat Org, Savi Singh, Deepti Suri, Dr Rahul Deepankar & Dr Kamal Patel, Sapan Shah, Mr. Gladson Varghese, and Ashfaq Syed. “Being more engaged in the election of public officials is essential to the continued success of our community” said Mr Syed Hussaini. Mr Hussaini also belongs to other boards of Muslim members who are active in the local community.

“As Indians we value certain life-styles of higher education, marriage, family and entrepreneurship. We want to promote those values by electing candidates who represent them” said Mr Sapan Shah, a physician & attorney who recently ran for State Representative from Des Plaines IL. “As a community we can promote the values which led to our success as immigrants to this country” he added. The Leadership Council of the group has 26 active community leaders who feel passionate about the cause.

The group intends to organize seminars & debates of public office candidates to create a more informed voter base, create a national list of Indian-Americans & start local chapters in other cities that have a sizable Indian population like New Jersey, New York, Dallas, Los Angeles. The inaugural event of the group is a reception of the Chicago Mayoral Candidates for the Indian-American community. The event is planned for Sunday February 10th at Taft Highschool in Chicago. The event will be moderated by Mr. Ravi Baichwal, ABC TV Network’s Prime News anchor. Front-running candidates in the Chicago Mayors race have been invited including Toni Preckwinkle, Gery Chico, Garry McCarthy, Susana Mendoza & Paul Vallas. VIA Voters expects 500 guests to attend the event including business persons, community leaders & the media.

Hari Om Mandir celebrates New Year with Sunderkand Path

January 23, 2019 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: January 1st 2019, Tuesday, started off with a Bang in the premises of Hari Om Mandir, Medinah, IL. Huge crowds gathered in the Temple to seek Blessings from God Almighty on this auspicious day, and prayed for a healthy, wealthy and prosperous Year ahead. Smt. Rama Kapoor & Mr. Subhash Sharma, along with their Bhajan Mandli, and Mr. Jignesh Pathak on the Dholak, recited the “Sunderkand Path” to seek Blessings from Lord Hanuman Ji for a blessed year ahead.

Nature too co-operated and the Sun shone brightly with moderate temperatures, as Devotees in large numbers thronged the Mandir to offer their prayers and seek blessings on this very first day of the New Year. The Mandir was beautifully decorated with Buntings, dazzling Streamers, Banners, Flowers, Bells etc to enhance the ambience for the celebrations. As the Devotees walked in, they were welcomed with Hanuman Ji Sash around the neck, and handed over the holy Sunderkand Path Book to sing along.

In Hari Om Mandir, the 1st of January, is also a day of administrative activity. The 2 Boards – Executive Board (EB) and Board of Trustees (BOT) that run the show all year round, are introduced to the general Congregation. It is time to honor and acknowledge the services of the outgoing Members who have completed their term, and welcome aboard New Members, who will be taking charge and serving the community in 2019.

Once again, Mr. Vipan Wadhera was re-elected as the President of the Executive Board for the next term of 3 years. This is for the first time, that any President has been elected consecutively for 2 Terms in a row. Amidst huge applause and appreciation, the Guardian of the Temple, Mr. Ayodhia Salwan made the announcement, saying that this was the peoples’ choice and demand, as Mr. Wadhera had won the hearts of ONE & ALL with his dedication and outstanding leadership qualities. Mr. Vipan Wadhera then thanked ALL his team Members for their continued support throughout the year. Plaques were also was awarded to the outgoing Members: Mrs. Shubh Sharma & Mr. Ashok Sharma who had completed their terms.

The new Members on the Team were then introduced: Mrs. Pooja Sharma, the youngest addition to the EB, appointed as the Food & Prasad In charge in 2019, was welcomed amongst clapping and cheers from the crowd. Mrs. Anita Rawal, appointed as the Secretary, was also given a warm welcome back!

Mr. Satpal Salwan, Chairman Board of Trustees, wished everybody a “Happy New Year” and congratulated the EB Team for a successful 2018, when several programs had been organized and the Temple was on the right path of Growth and Service to the Community.

On this day, members from the Community/ Devotees/Volunteers who have served the Mandir in various ways, are also honored for their Contributions. This year, Kalsi Builders, Krishan Tejpal, Satpal Salwan & Madhu Gupta was chosen for their outstanding services to the HOM and the Society at large. Mr. Brij Sharma and Mr. Ayodhia Salwan read out the Citations and presented the Recognition Awards.

As Guardian of the Temple, Mr. Ayodhia Salwan also wished everyone a Happy New Year and prayed to God Almighty for the wellbeing of ALL the members of our Hari Om Parivar and the Society in general. He also thanked the Media People – Suresh Bodiwala from Asian Media and Vandana Jhingan from TV Asia for covering all the important Festivals/Events held in the Hari Om Mandir.

Mr. Vipan Wadhera also gave a brief update on the upcoming Construction Projects and the Religious Programs in 2019. He invited everyone to join the “Pran Pratishtha Ceremony” of Baba Balak Nath Jis Murti on Basant Panchami, Feb.10, 2019. A renowned Singer and Baba Ji’s Bhakt, Bunty Bawa from California would be singing the glory of Baba Balak Nath on that day. The Murti which has already been installed, will be unveiled after performing all the holy rituals. All the prestigious Donors would be joining the Pooja Ceremony and be a part of this memorable Event.

A Grand Lunch, sponsored by the Salwan Family/STAR FOODS was served after the Program. “Bhature Channa” – a very sumptuous and appropriate Hot North Indian Meal on a COLD DAY, along with hot Masala Tea, was very welcome and relished by everybody. People exchanged greetings, good wishes, embraced each other, wishing for peace and wellbeing of all mankind.

Indian Bishops start office for ecology The newly established Commission aims to “embark on a new path to care and protect the environment.”

January 23, 2019 Staff ReporterCommunity, Environment 0

India’s Catholic bishops have decided to establish a new office for ecological concerns in line with the universal Church’s efforts to pay attention to the works of environmental protection.

The new Commission for Ecology was one of the two officers that Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) decided to establish during their Jan. 4-14 annual meet near Chennai.

The Commission for Small Christian Communities (SCC) was the other new office the bishops started.

The office for Ecology comes as a response Pope Francis’s 2015 Encyclical “Laudato Si”. The Papal letter appeals to the entire Church “to take care of our universe,” said a press note from the conference.

The proposal to establish a Commission for Ecology was discussed at the bishop’s Executive Committee in May 2018, stressing the importance and urgency to respond to the environmental challenges in India.

The new Commission was part of the Church’s attempt to “embark on a new path to care and protect the environment,” the note said.

A Commission for Small Christian Communities was also started to promote the Gospel values at the grass root level and prepare all faithful to witness the compassionate ministry of the Church in their local life situations.

Bishop Alwyn D’Silva, Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay was appointed chairman for the Commission for Ecology, while Bishop Ignatius Mascarenhas of Simla-Chandigarh was appointed chairman for the Commission for Small Christian Communities.

Newly elected heads of commissions

Archbishop Neri Ferrão- Commission for Boundary

Bishop Antonysamy Peter Abir–Commission for Bible

Archbishop Thomas Macwan-Commission for Catechetics

Bishop Derek Fernandes-Commission for Canon Law and Other Legislative Texts

Bishop Francis Serrao of Shimoga–Commission for Ecumenism

Co-adjutor Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura of Patna–Commission for Family

Bishop Eugene Joseph of Varanasi–Commission for Laity

Archbishop Dominic Jala of Shillong–Commission for Liturgy

Archbishop Victor Henry Thakur of Raipur–Commission for Migrants

Bishop Raphy Manjaly of Allahabad–Commission for Proclamation

Archbishop Felix Toppo of Ranchi–Commission for Theology and Doctrine

Bishop Udumala Bala of Warangal–Commission for Vocations

Bishop Francis Kalist of Meerut–Commission for Women

Bishop Nazarene Soosai of Kottar–Commission for Youth.

Early Bird Registration For AAPI’s 37th annual Convention in Atlanta Ends On April 1st Convention To Be Held at Omni Atlanta at CNN Center and Georgia World Congress Centre (GWCC) in Atlanta from July 3 to 7, 2019

January 22, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity 0

(New York, NY: January 17, 2019): The Early Bird Special Registration for AAPI’s 37^th annual convention to be held at the Omni Atlanta at CNN Center and Georgia World Congress Centre (GWCC) in Atlanta from July 3 to 7, 2019, will end on April 1^st.” Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI, declared here today. “We are expecting to have a record attendance of more than 2,000 delegates including Physicians, Academicians, Researchers and Medical students at the convention. The annual convention offers extensive academic presentations, recognition of achievements and achievers, and professional networking at the alumni and evening social events,” he added.

The annual convention this year is being organized by Georgia Chapter of AAPI. Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Vice Chair of AAPI BOT and Convention Chair, said, “We have been working hard to put together an attractive program for our annual get together, educational activity and family enjoyment. I and the Co-Chairs are fortunate to have a dedicated team of convention committee members from the region helping us. We are expecting a record turnout and hence I would encourage early registration to avoid later disappointment.”

Registration for the 37^th annual AAPI Convention will begin on February 1^st. Early Bird Registration fee for the delegates will be $100 less than the regular rates, said, Dr. Gangasani. Also, you get to pick your own choice of seats at the galas as soon as you register for the convention. The sooner you register the better the chances for getting the seats of your own choice with the ability to sit closer to the podium and with your friends/families.

A pool of dedicated AAPI leaders are working hard to make the Convention a unique event for all the participants, he said. Among them are: Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice President, AAPI; Dr. Syamala Erramilli, President of GAPI; Dr. Asha Parikh, Chair of GAPI BOT; Convention Co-chairs: Dr. Raghu Lolabattu, Dr. Piyush Patel, Dr. Subodh Agrawal and several Convention Team members.

In addition to offering over 12 hours of cutting edge CMEs to the physicians, the event will have more than 12 hours of product theaters/promotional opportunities, plenary sessions, CEOs Forum, and a women’s leadership forum. The convention will be addressed by senior world leaders, and celebrities from the Hollywood and Bollywood world.

“The AAPI Convention offers an opportunity to meet directly with these physicians who are leaders in their fields and play an integral part in the decision-making process regarding new products and services,” Dr. Asha Parikh, Women’s Forum Chair, said.

Dr. Syamala Erramilli, President of GAPI says, in addition to the exhibition hall featuring large exhibit booth spaces in which the healthcare industry will have the opportunity to engage, inform and educate the physicians directly through one on one, hands on product demonstrations and discussions, and special exhibition area for new innovations by young physicians.

“The 37^th AAPI Atlanta Convention is where you can reach your target audience of several thousand under one roof,” said Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect of AAPI.

“Some of the major attractions include Alumni meetings for networking, also an AAPI-India Strategic Engagement Forum to showcase the AAPI initiatives in India like Trauma Brain Injury Guidelines, MoU on TB Eradication in India and recognition of AAPI Award winners will make this Convention unique,” Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda said.

“AAPI members represent a variety of important medical specialties. Sponsors will be able to take advantage of the many sponsorship packages at the 37th annual convention, creating high-powered exposure to the highly coveted demographic of AAPI‘s membership,” Dr. Dr. Raghu Lolabattu said. “The 37^th AAPI Atlanta Convention is where you can reach your target audience of several thousand under one roof. Register now and aggrandize your marketing plans,” Dr. Piyush Patel added.

Representing the interests of the over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin, leaders of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the largest ethnic organization of physicians, for 37 years, AAPI Convention has provided a venue for medical education programs and symposia with world renowned physicians on the cutting edge of medicine, says Dr. Subodh Agrawal.

“Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country and internationally will convene and participate in the scholarly exchange of medical advances, to develop health policy agendas, and to encourage legislative priorities in the coming year. Do not miss on the Early Bird Special. We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta!” said Dr. Naresh Parekh.

For more details, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit: www.aapiconvention.org and www.aapiusa.org

AAPI Will Host Global Healthcare Summit in July, 2019 in Hyderabad Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect of AAPI, Announces During Kick Off Event in Hyderabad

January 15, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Health 0

(Hyderabad, India. January 4^th, 2019) “The 13th edition of the annual Global Healthcare Summit will be held in Hyderabad in India in July 19th to 21st, 2019,” Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), during a Kick Off Dinner Event, here at the Hotel Daspalla, Kavuri Hills, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad on January 2nd.

Dr. Suresh Reddy, Chair, Global Health Summit 2019, urged all AAPI leaders, local organizers and sponsors to fully participate in order to make the next edition of AAPI’s Global Healthcare a more effective one, serving the many healthcare needs of our mother India. Dr. Reddy, who will assume charge as the President of AAPI in July this year at the convention in Atlanta, USA, said, the GHS 2019, planned to be organized by AAPI in collaboration with BAPIO & GAPIO, as well as Host Alumni Chapters, including OGKTMA, ATMGUSA, KAMCOSA, and GMCGA, will focus on preventive health, targeting Rural Health, Women’s Health, and providing special CPR Trainings, that will equip First Responders to help save life.

Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, Co-Chair, Global Health Summit 2019, in his felicitation address, said, “We flew away from India decades ago. However, our hearts are still in India.” He said, GHS 2019 will focus on several relevant issues to serve the many healthcare needs and delivery of healthcare in India. For the first time, AAPI will organize Medical Jeopardy with cash prizes to winners, he said. He praised the local community and organizers for their enthusiastic support.

Anwar Feroz Siddiqui, Chief Strategic Advisor, AAPI, in his address, complimented Dr. Suresh Reddy for his great leadership, especially his ability to choose and delegate responsibilities to top AAPI leaders. Mr. Siddiqui, who has been working with GHS since its beginning a dozen years ago, lauded AAPI and its members for their willingness, passion, and generosity to give back to their motherland.

Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice-President 2018-19, pointed to the uniqueness of the next GHS, pointing to the 1st ever GHS to be held in the state of Telangana, after the state attained full statehood. “AAPI has capped the voluminous achievements of the past 37 years with a clear vision to move forward taking this noble organization and its vision for better healthcare to newer heights,” he said. He said, under his leadership, the 14th edition of GHS 2020 will be held in Visakhapatnam in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, AAPI’s Secretary 2018-19, and a key organizer of the event, reminded the audience of the passion and dedication for their motherland that brings them back to India every year. She enumerated several contributions/outcome from the past 12 GHS organized by AAPI across several cities in India.

Dr. Gotimukula said, “AAPI has made significant contributions towards addressing several issues affecting the healthcare system in India. We have addressed the issue of Traumatic Brain Injury – the scourge of young India, and helped with the development of management guidelines thereby helping prevent deaths due to road traffic accidents, raising the importance and awareness on smoking cessation, Adopt a Village program and taking the initiatives to make quality healthcare accessible universally to village and taluka and district levels, and most recently a strong collaborative on making India TB Free with the signing of a MOU with USAID. Ten city pilots are well under way and significant progress is being made,” he told a captive audience,” she said.

Dr. Sanku Rao, a past President of AAPI presented the 37 year old history of AAPI and the evolution of GHS.in the past dozen years and the many accomplishments/contributions in the delivery of healthcare in US and in India. AAPI is the largest ethnic medical organization in the United States, and has been in existence for nearly four decades. The Association has almost 130 local chapters, specialty societies and alumni organizations under its purview, and represents the interests of over 70,000 physicians and 15,000 medical students and residents of Indian heritage in the United States, Dr. Rao said.

Sreeni Gangasani. Chair of AAPI Convention, provided an overview of the upcoming AAPI Convention in Atlanta, GA, and urged all to join in to experience a historic at the next annual convention. “To be attended by over 2,000 delegates from across the United States, the 37th Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) will be held at the fabulous Omni Atlanta at CNN Center and Georgia World Congress Centre (GWCC) in Atlanta from July 3 to 7, 2019,” he said.

Dr. Satish Kathula, referred to the highly impactful ADOPT A VILLAGE Program, spearheaded by Dr. Jagan Ailinani, a past President of AAPI, and Dr. Alok Aggarwal, who has adopted a village in the state of Telangana as examples of the good work done by AAPI. He said, AAPI provides a platform for many individuals who want to give back to their motherland.

Dr. Manoj Jain, Chair and spearheading the TB-Free India Movement, spoke about AAPI’s collaborative efforts with several non-governmental organizations and the USAID, with a commitment to strengthen its initiatives to “make every city, ever district, every village in India TB free.” Dr. Jain pointed to the planning/review session held during GHS in Mumbai on Building on Local Roadmaps for a TB-Free India – A Combined effort of AAPI and CETI under guidance of Government of India, USAID, where the progress in the 10 cities, where the program has been on for several months, was reviewed through a live webcast from each of these 10 cities. He said, Hyderabad will be joining the efforts to make its citizens TB-

Free.

Dr. Dwarakanatha Reddy, Overseas Convener, AAPI Global Health Summit 2019-20 and several Alumni Medical School leaders from the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh were felicitated at the kick off event. Dr. Sushma Nakka, Presdient of KAMCOSA- USA served as the MC for the evening, while Dr. Ravi Kolli delivered the vote of thanks.

A Press Conference at the famous Hyderabad Press Club was organized on January 3rd to officially announce the Global Healthcare Summit planned to be held in Hyderabad from July 19th to 21st this year. Attended by dozens of local and national reporters from the media world, the Press Conference was addressed by the top leadership of AAPI and local organizing committee members.

Packed with strategic planning sessions such as the much anticipated CEO Forum, Women’s Forum, Launching of Free Health Clinic, First Responders Training, CMEs, promote Emergency Medicine and Family Medicine Education, Research Contest, Medical Quiz, Fashion Show, Cultural Events, pre and post visits for delegates, the GHS 2019 is expected to be one with the greatest impact and significant contributions towards harnessing the power of international Indian diaspora to bring the most innovative, efficient, cost effective healthcare solutions to India, Dr. Suresh Reddy said.

One in seven Americans is touched by a physician of Indian origin. There is an equally large percentage of medical residents, fellows and students in the USA serving millions of Americans. AAPI’s GHS has provided a venue for medical education programs and symposia with world-renowned physicians on the cutting edge of medicine.

AAPI’s Historic Global Healthcare Summit 2018 in Mumbai Concludes with Commitment to Give Back to Mother India

January 15, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Health 0

The 12th edition of the annual Global Healthcare Summit at the glamour capital of India, Mumbai concluded here on December 30^th with Physicians of Indian Origin rededicating themselves to work and collaborate towards bringing in high quality, innovative, preventable, cost-effective ways to the delivery of healthcare to millions of people in India.

In his inaugural address, the President of India said, AAPI is “more than just a platform of doctors and medical practitioners, the Indian President told the nearly 500 delegates who had come from around the world to attend the landmark Summit in Mumbai. “It is a link between two vibrant and democratic societies, both of which have addressed major public health challenges in their own way.”

The Indian President praised AAPI and the over 100,000 Physicians of Indian Origin in the United States for their great contributions. “The professional-ism and goodwill of Indian doctors in America has won them – won you, I should say – a well-deserved reputation,” he told the AAPI leaders. “In fact, it has occasionally led to diplomatic gains for India for which your Association must be appreciated.”

The President of India urged AAPI to continue its efforts in the prevention and management of life-style diseases, diabetes and obesity, where physicians of Indian origin can bring in “traditional Indian wellness practices to modern medical systems. Please see what your Association can do in this area,” he told AAPI delegates

Dr. Naresh Parikh, President AAPI in his opening remarks, provided an overview of some of the major contributions of the past 11 Summits organized by AAPI. “Over the past 12 years AAPI physicians have collaborated with several professional medical associations, academic institutions, Government of India, and have made significant contributions towards addressing diabetes with the launch of Sevak program, CPR-AED training for first responders with expert faculty from the American University of Antigua, Traumatic Brain Injury – the scourge of young India, and development of management guidelines thereby helping prevent deaths due to road traffic accidents, raising the importance and awareness on smoking cessation, Adopt a Village program and taking the initiatives to make quality healthcare accessible universally to village and taluka and district levels, and most recently a strong collaborative on making India TB Free with the signing of a MOU with USAID. Ten city pilots are well under way and significant progress is being made,” he told a captive audience.

Packed with strategic planning sessions such as the much anticipated CEO Forum, Women’s Forum, Launching Free Health Clinic, First Responders Training, CMEs, Research Contest, Fashion Show, Cultural extravaganza, pre and post visits to Kerala and Goa, the GHS 2018 has promised to be one with the greatest impact and significant contributions towards harnessing the power of international Indian diaspora to bring the most innovative, efficient, cost effective healthcare solutions to India.

Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Chairman for GHS 2018 said that with a view to help the delivery of healthcare to millions across the nation, said, “AAPI has capped the voluminous achievements of the past 37 years with a clear vision to move forward taking this noble organization and its vision for better healthcare to newer heights.” Dr. Jahagirdar and his wife Dr. Udita Jahagirdar contributed funds towards the Burns Unit Seth G.S. Medical College and Hospital in Mumbai and the Unit was dedicated during GHS 2018.

With a view to encourage and recognize research by upcoming generation of physicians, AAPI organized a Young Investigator Research Competition as part of the GHS 2018 at G.S. Medical College and Hospital in Mumbai had several dozens of participation from Medical Students from across the nation. Winners were recognized and awarded at the Gala on December 28^th.

Leading Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country and internationally converged onto Mumbai to further the exchange of knowledge and best practices on recent global medical advances, to develop vibrant and viable health policy agendas, and address growing healthcare challenges.

“The focus of the 12^th Global Health Summit was an India-centric approach, with special events such as, Global Impact and India’s contribution in providing cost effective medicines, addressing global shortages of healthcare professionals, Young Investigators Research contest, Women’s Leadership Forum, with focus on stopping violence against women and round tables to develop practical solutions for strengthening TB Free India initiative and addressing non-communicable diseases,” Anwar Feroz, AAPI’s Strategic Advisor said.

The many themes chosen for CMEs included, Healthcare, Career and Commerce, with the focus on Women’s Healthcare, including high priority areas such as Cardiology, Maternal & Child Health, Diabetes, Oncology, Surgery, Mental Health, HIT, Allergy, Immunology & Lung Health, Gastroenterology, Transplant and impact of comorbidities.

Neal Simon, President of AUA commended the efforts of AAPI and its collaboration with The American University of Antigua (AUA) and P D Hinduja Hospital for successfully conducting First Responders Training, including CPR-AED and BLS for more than 150 Mumbai Police Officers on December 22^nd, 23^rd& 24^th after successfully completing training in Jharkhand, Rajasthan and West Bengal to provide assistance to accident victims and save lives.=.

Dr. Ramesh Mehta, President GAPIO in his opening address said that AAPI GHS 2018 is the beginning of a strong collaborative approach along with the Global Association of Physicians of Indian origin (GAPIO) that together will make constructive and tangible ways of ensuring that healthcare is affordable and accessible to millions of people in India.

The CEO Forum, addressed by leaders from Indian Pharmaceutical Companies, including Dr. Preetha Rajaraman, Health Attaché, US Government; Dr. Shailesh Ayyangar, MD Sanofi; Sudarshan Jain. Former MD Abbott; Madan Rohini Krishnan, MD Medtronic India; Dr. William Pinsky. President ECFMG; Neal Simon, President AUA; DG Shah, Secretary Indian Pharmaceutical Allianc;, Dr. Gurpreet Sandhu, President CHPF; Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI; Dr. Vinod Shah, AAPI Past President; Dr. Raj Bhayani, Co Chair, GHS; and, Dr Ravi Jahagirdar, Chairman GHS.

The Forum discussed ways to ensure that lower cost and effective medicines with the highest quality continue to make India the world leader in this field. The CEO Forum focused on identifying ways to successfully implement “AYUSHMAN BHARAT” – a brainchild of the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, whose vision is to provide quality healthcare to India’s billion people – a project that is being watched intently across the Globe for emulation, these sessions are designed to complement the enormous effort by several agencies and Government of India, said Anwar Feroz Siddiqi, Chief Strategy Adviser , AAPI, Honorary Adviser GAPIO and BAPIO.

The Women’s Forum had Amruta Fadnavis, First Lady of Maharashtra and Vice President of Axis Bank; Deana Uppal, Entrepreneur & Winner Miss India U; Dr. Nandita Palshetkar, President FOGSI; Dr. Ratna Jain, Former Mayor Kota, Rajasthan; and, Sangita Reddy, Executive Director, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospital Group as panelists. Dr. Asha Parikh, Chair, AAPI Women’s Forum and Dr. Udaya Shivangi, Vice Chair, AAPI Women’s Forum led the panelists to a lively discussion on ways to prevent and address violence against women.

Building on its collaborative efforts with several non-governmental organizations and the US-AID, AAPI committed itself to strengthen its initiatives to “make every city, ever district, every village in India TB free.” The planning/review session at the GHS was an Introduction and Review of Building on A Roadmap for a TB-Free India – A Combined effort of AAPI and CETI under guidance of Government of India, US-AID, where the progress in the 10 cities, where the program has been on for several months, was reviewed through a live webcast from each of these 10 cities.

Participants at the strategic planning session included, Dr. Naresh Parikh MD, President of AAPI; Anwar Feroz, AAPI’s Strategic Advisor; Dr. Salil Bhargava, CETI; Reuben Seamineken from US-AID; Vikas Sheel, IAS, Joint Secretary of Health, Indian Government; Kush Sachdeva, Deputy Director General of TB, Government of India; Dr. Manoj Jain; Dr. Rajesh Deshmukh; and, Dr. Thakor G. Patel.

AAPI had already launched the TB Free India project in April 2018 in strong association with Ministry for Health, WHO, CETI, USAID and industry partners such as Johnson & Johnson and Mylan. AAPI and the TB Free India collaborative is implementing pilot projects in 10 cities across India. The initial findings were presented during the GHS 2018 in Mumbai under the leadership of Dr. Manoj Jain and Dr. Thakor Patel. The special pilots in Varanasi and Nagpur are supported by Dr. Raj Bhayani, Co-Chair AAPI GHS and Dr. Surendra Purohit, Senior Adviser AAPI. Dr. SampatShivangi and Dr. Vinod Shah, past AAPI Presidents have served as the senior advisors and have contributed immensely to the success of the GHS.

Dr. Naresh Parikh praised the dedication, contributions and efforts of Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Chair of GHS 2018, Dr. Vinod Shah, Chair of AAPI Legislative Committee, Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Co-Chair of GHS 2018, Dr. Raj Bhayani, Co-Chair of GHS 2018, Anwar Feroz, AAPI’s Strategic Advisor, Dr. Asha Parikh, Women’s Forum Chair, and his entire Executive Committee consisting of Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect; Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice President; Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, Secretary; Dr. Anjana Samadder, Treasurer; and Dr. Ajeeth Kothari, Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

GHS 2018 provided the participants and world leaders in the Healthcare industry a rare platform to interact with and listen to leading physicians, healthcare professionals, academicians, scientists, and leaders of the hospitals, technology, medical device and pharmaceutical companies to develop solutions that will make cost effective and quality healthcare accessible to all Indians.

Dr. Suresh Reddy invited all delegates to the 13^th edition of Global Healthcare Summit planned to be held from July 19^th to 21^st in Hyderabad, India. Organized by AAPI in collaboration with BAPIO & GAPIO, as well as Host Alumni Chapters, including OGKTMA, ATMGUSA, and GMCGA, the GHS 2019 will focus on preventive health, targeting women’s health, and providing special CPR Trainings, Dr. Reddy, who will assume charge as the President of AAPI in July next year at the convention in Atlanta, said.

Captions for Pictures

1. Shri Ram Nath Kovind, President of India, delivering inaugural address at AAPI’s 12 Annual Global Healthcare Summit in Mumbai

2. Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI, delivering welcome address at the 12^th annual GHS 2018

3. AAPI leadership with President of India and other political leaders form India

4. AAPI leaders and collaborators recommitting to render India TB Free by 2025

5. Women’s Forum panelists with AAPI leaders

6. CEO Forum addressed by world renowned health leaders

7. A section of the audience at the inaugural event of AAPI’s GHS 2018 in Mumbai

A Galaxy of Women Leaders Address AAPI’s Women’s Forum during GHS in Mumbai “A Strong Woman Cannot Be Stopped:” Amruta Fadnavis Tells at AAPI’s Women’s Forum

January 15, 2019 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Women 0

“When a strong woman is born, she cannot be stopped,” Amruta Fadnavis, First Lady of Maharashtra and Vice President of Axis Bank, told a packed audience at the Women’s Forum during the 12th annual edition of Global Healthcare Summit at the Trident Hotel, Narimon Point, Mumbai, India on the final day of GHS, December 30^th, 2018.

Organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) the Women’s Forum had a galaxy of successful women, who shared with the AAPI delegates their own stories of growing up and facing challenges with conviction and courage, and have today become role models for other women around the world.

The Women’s Forum had Amruta Fadnavis, First Lady of Maharashtra and Vice President of Axis Bank; Deana Uppal, Entrepreneur & Winner Miss India UK; Dr. Nandita Palshetkar, President FOGSI; Dr. Ratna Jain, Former Mayor Kota, Rajasthan; and, Sangita Reddy, Executive Director, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospital Group as panelists. Dr. Asha Parikh, Chair, AAPI Women’s Forum and Dr. Udaya Shivangi, Vice Chair, AAPI Women’s Forum, led the panelists to a lively discussion on ways to prevent and address violence against women.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Asha Parikh, Chairwoman of the Women’s Forum, described violence against women as a “burning issue” around the world. While praising AAPI for making efforts to focus on this crucial issue affecting women across all continents, she urged everyone to “identify ways to collectively address this issue.” Reminding the audience about the tradition of woman being considered a goddess in the Indian tradition, she urged everyone to respect women in all places.

Amruta Fadnavis, who was the keynote speaker at the Women’s Forum, is a trained classical singer, a social activist and a banker. Married to the 18th Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri. Devendra Fadnavis, she is the youngest first lady in the history of Maharashtra. Currently, serving as the Vice President – Transaction Banking with Axis Bank, Ms. Fadnavis has represented India at National Prayer Breakfast – 2017, an International peace initiative presided by US President Donald Trump. She has perfectly blended her life as a working woman and a socialite to nurture her interests and passions. She chose to have her own individuality rather than wrapped herself under the covers of first lady of Maharashtra and which is definitely an inspiration for many women today.

Ms. Fadnavis grew up in a household where education and independence for women was essential. Being a wife, mother, businesswoman, artiste, each role she plays is so demanding. But, Ms. Fadnavis, who shared about her supporting parents and family, while growing up, said, she was able to plat all of these roles effectively, because she has a very understanding husband, who encouraged her to work towards the realization of her personal and professional goals.

“It’s smart economics to invest in a girl as much as one would in a boy,” Ms. Fadnavis said. “It’s very important to help girl child to be independent.” She stressed the need for women to be more educated than men. “Men feel threatened when women do not adhere to what men wants them to do,” she said. Pointing to many non-governmental programs she has initiated and supported, Ms. Fadnavis drew the attention of how with the trainings provided to police, more women have come forward to report violence than in the past.

Dr. Nandita Palshetkar shared with the audience about her own advocacy role she and FOGSI, her noble organization working with women are doing in Maharshtra. Describing violence against women as “most shameful,” Dr. Palshetkar stated, the prevalence of violence against women is a global phenomenon. She called for the need for education towards gender sensitization. Working with schools, health workers across the country, this can be achieved, she said. According to her, “The biggest challenge is to keep fighting. Women need to support each other and applaud each other’s victory. If you are not doing it no one is going to do it for yourself,” she told the audience.

Deana Uppal, another panelist, while acknowledging that there is discrimination in the glamour world of Hollywood and Bollywood, said, in choosing lead roles and when it comes to payments, men are always preferred over women. “We have come a long way. Changes are taking place,” she said. “There are questions raised when such practices are seen happening.” She allured to the effect of MeToo# Movement and its impact on the ability for “more people to speak out against any type of discrimination.” Stressing the need for equality, she said, “I strongly believe in promoting equality. You are the role models for all of us here. Keep fighting and support one another.”

Dr. Ratna Jain, who was elected Mayor of Kota in Rajasthan at a very young age, recommended that “Be sure of what you want to be and be passionate about what you want to achieve. Believe in yourself and go ahead and do it.” While acknowledging of the many social evils that are prevalent across India, Dr. Jain said, “When women are educated, things will be better for everyone. Many of these social evils will be eliminated.” Stressing the need for literacy, she said, “Small efforts by everyone can do wonders.”

Ms. Sangita Reddy, who moderated the panel discussion pointed out how women are being judged differently than men in almost every aspect of life. She stated that there are as many as 70% of the healthcare jobs are held by women, but only a handful of jobs in Board “There is an unconscious structural bias. There is a need for looking within and identify ways to move forward in order to be agents of change from within.

Dr. Udaya Shivangi, Co-Chair of Women’s Forum, stressed the need for enhancing professional growth without compromising one’s family, values and interests in life. She shared with the audience how her mother inspired her to dream and work towards realizing her dreams.

The three-day historic event, inaugurated by the Honorable President of India on December 28^th at the Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai, was for the first time, jointly organized by American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) and Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO), from December 28th – 30th December 2018 at Hotel Trident, Nariman Point, Mumbai. Earlier, Dr. Naresh Parikh, President AAPI in his opening remarks, highlighted the importance of Women’s Forum, which has come to be a much sought after event at ever Convention and GHS.

Shri Ram Nath Kovind, President of India Inaugurates AAPI’s 12th Annual Global Healthcare Summit in Mumbai

December 31, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Health 0

Urging AAPI to bring in traditional Indian wellness practices to modern medical systems, President describes “AAPI as a link between two vibrant and democratic societies”

(Mumbai, India. December 29th, 2018) The Honorable President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, inaugurated the 12th edition of the Global Healthcare Summit organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) at The Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai on Friday, December 28th, 2018.

He praised AAPI and the over 100,000 Physicians of Indian Origin in the United States for their great contributions. “The professional-ism and goodwill of Indian doctors in America has won them – won you, I should say – a well-deserved reputation,” he told the AAPI leaders. “In fact, it has occasionally led to diplomatic gains for India for which your Association must be appreciated.” He said India and the US shared complementarities in the pharmaceutical field – in clinical research, drug discovery and manufacture. He said that both countries can work together to address common challenges posed by lifestyle diseases.

In his welcome address, Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI said, “The past Global Healthcare Summit (GHS) have helped develop strategic alliances with various organizations and the government of India. It is these learning and relationships that have brought us all here in Mumbai, who are very passionate about serving their homeland, Mother India.”

Shri Ram Nath Kovind, President of India, delivering inaugural address at AAPI’s 12 Annual Global Healthcare Summit in Mumbai

Past summits have identified areas of mutual interest and also integrated advancements of healthcare facilities in India besides ways and means of tackling long term concerns leading to long-term collaborations. Dr. Parikh reminded the audience of many outcomes of the Summit, saying, over the past 12 years AAPI physicians have collaborated with several professional medical associations, academic institutions, Government of India, and have made significant contributions towards addressing diabetes with the launch of Sevak program, CPR-AED training for first responders with expert faculty from the American University of Antigua, Traumatic Brain Injury – the scourge of young India, and development of management guidelines thereby helping prevent deaths due to road traffic accidents, raising the importance and awareness on smoking cessation, Adopt a Village program and taking the initiatives to make quality healthcare accessible universally to village and taluka and district levels, and most recently a strong collaborative on making India TB Free with the signing of a MOU with USAID. Ten city pilots are well under way and significant progress is being made, said Dr. Naresh Parikh, President AAPI in his opening remarks. A significant collaboration has been reached between AAPI and Project Life to address the challenge of and to prevent Thalassemia.

Dr. Parikh praised the contributions and efforts of Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Chair of GHS 2018, Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Co-Chair of GHS 2018, Dr. Vinod Shah, Chair of AAPI Legislative Committee, Dr. Raj Bhayani, Co-Chair of GHS 2018, Anwar Feroz, AAPI’s Strategic Advisor, Dr. Asha Parikh, Women’s Forum Chair, and his entire Executive Committee consisting of Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect; Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice President; Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, Secretary; Dr. Anjana Samadder, Treasurer; and Dr. Ajeeth Kothari, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Ramesh Mehta, President of GAPIO, which has jointly organized GHS for the first time in association with AAPI, also addressed he delegates during the inaugural ceremony.

Dr. Prathap C Reddy, Founder GAPIO has envisioned the evolution of developing a united front for all NRI physicians to develop strong and effective programs that can be implemented with precision to face the challenges posed by Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). GAPIO has launched several programs including Leadership Development Programs. GAPIO has representation from 34 countries according to Dr. Anupam Sibal, Vice President, GAPIO.

Devendra Fadnavis, the Chief Minister of the state of Maharashtra, in his address to the international delegates, welcomed the AAPI delegates to his home state, Maharashtra. While praising the many contributions of AAPI, he urged the delegates to work collaboratively in making health care more affordable. He promised whole-hearted support to the initiatives of AAPI in the state of Maharashtra. Chennamaneni Vidyasagar Rao, Governor of Maharashtra, and Raj Purohit, Cabinet Minister of Maharashtra were honored guests who attended the event.

Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI, delivering welcome address at the 12th annual GHS 2018

The President of India acknowledged the professionalism and excellent reputation of doctors of Indian origin in the US. “It is a tribute to India’s culture of knowledge and of service that one of every seven patient consultations in the US is with an Indian or Indian origin physician,” he said.

AAPI, a three-and-a-half decades old organization with an impressive CV, is the largest non-profit ethnic medical institution in the United States. “Your Association is a mini-India, comprising doctors with origins in all parts of our country,” the Indian President said.

The President said that the goal of ‘Health for All’ must be integral to our programs and policies. He noted the several initiatives of the Government of India, which he said were intended to make healthcare in the country more holistic and affordable for all citizens of the country.

The President of India lauded the great contributions of the members of AAPI to public health and to the discipline of medicine across the spectrum. “You are consulted on legislative and policy issues and are involved in cutting-edge research. Most important, you are responsible for providing medical care and treatment to a wide variety of people, including, I am happy to note, communities living in underserved areas.

The Indian diaspora, spread across the world, “serves as a living bridge between the country of its adoption and the country of its origin – such as between the US and India,” the Indian President said.

He praised AAPI for its collaborations with the Ministry of Health, Government of India, with state governments and with several medical and academic institutions to take forward the agenda of public health. “AAPI and its members have helped in addressing diabetes, taking on the challenge of TB, development of management guide-lines for brain injuries, and rural health-care, among other themes,” he said.

The President of India praised AAPI’s contributions, especially, Imparting of “first responder training in several states of the country, including here in Maharashtra. Such training can be of immense use after road accidents or when dealing with an emergency.” He urged AAPI to take this process further and deeper, especially in rural areas, where there may be a considerable distance between the patient and a well-equipped multi-specialty hospital.

He appealed to AAPI leaders to work together with the government of India in finding innovative ways to offer quality and affordable care to millions of poor people in India, by building alliances – between doctors and patient groups, between civil society and industry, between researchers and practitioners and ultimately between countries “Disease does not discriminate, and the practice of medicine and health-care must not discriminate either,” he said.

“India’s experience with producing affordable but high quality drugs and medicines offers a huge advantage as the world – and America itself – seeks to drive down the cost of health-care and health insurance,” the Indian President pointed out. “Our countries can also work hand-in-hand in seeking answers to global pandemics and emerging zoonotic diseases.”

“The goal of ‘Health for All’ must be integral to our programs and policies,” he said. “I am very happy to note that the Government of India has been doing exactly that – it had made delivery of holistic healthcare to all citizens of India, one of its primary goals.”

Shri Ram Nath Kovind, President of India Inaugurates AAPI’s 12th Annual Global Healthcare Summit in Mumbai — Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Chair of GHS 2018, Chennamaneni Vidyasagar Rao, Governor of Maharashtra, First Lady of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, President of India, Chief Minister of the state of Maharashtra., Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI, Dr. Ramesh Mehta, President GAPIO

Appealing more collaborative efforts by AAPI, especially in the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, seeking to provide comprehensive medical care to all our people, from little children to the elderly, covering 40 per cent of Indian citizens, the Indian President said, Ayushman Bharat is of importance to more than just India. Its success will offer a blue-print to cost-effective universal health coverage in emerging economies and among vulnerable communities.

“That is why I would urge all of you to become part of this potentially game-changing initiative – by participating and supporting it as you can, or even by making suggestions in terms of its design and roll-out. I look forward to actionable ideas on Ayushman Bharat emerging from this Summit,” the President of India told AAPI delegates.

Representing the interests of the over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin, leaders of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the largest ethnic organization of physicians, for 37 years. One in seven American is touched by a doctor of Indian origin. There is an equally large percentage of medical residents, fellows and students in the USA. AAPI’s GHS has provided a venue for medical education programs and symposia with world renowned physicians on the cutting edge of medicine. For more details, please visit: https://aapisummit.org/www.aapiusa.org

Indian Americans in CT Celebrate Christmas

December 26, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

It’s that time of year again. December has come and with it all the joys of Christmas and that it means to everyone. Christmas is celebrated to remember the birth of Jesus Christ, who Christians believe is the Son of God.

Christmas is a season of praise and thanksgiving for the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ, which begins with Christmas Eve (December 24 after sundown) or Day and continues through the Day of Epiphany. The name Christmas comes from the season’s first service, the Christ Mass. Epiphany comes from the Greek word epiphania, which means “manifestation,” when Christ made known to the world as the Savior when Three Kings/Magi visited Baby Jesus in Bethlehem.

But what is the real meaning of Christmas? Is it the gifts under the tree, the lights in the windows, the cards in the mail, turkey dinners with family and friends, snow in the yard, stockings hanging in the living room, and shouts of “Merry Christmas” to those who pass us in the streets? Is this really Christmas?

Christmas has now more associated with sharing of gifts, parties and carling. The Indian American community here in the US has brought with them some of the traditions they have cherished back home in India.

Continuing with the tradition of singing Carols and spreading the message of Christmas around the community, members of Our Lady of Assumption Syro-Malabar Catholic Mission in Norwalk CT went around houses across the southern Connecticut, singing Christmas carols and bringing in the joy of Christmas and sharing blessings with members and families and friends of the newly formed Catholic Church in Fairfield County during the weekends of December 15-16, 2018.The caroling began with the carol, ‘O Come All Ye Faithful.’

Meanwhile, Trumbull Party Timers, a group of families in the Trumbull region shared the joyous Christmas blessings with children leading the Carol singing in each house in the region. “It was fun and while we had a good time we are glad we are able to share with one another the spirit of Christmas; Love, Joy, Peace, and Sharing,” said the youth who were the lead carolers of the group.

A Grand Christmas celebrations in Chicago unveils the essence & spirit of Christmas

December 26, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity, Culture/Religion 0

With the symphonic choir presenting melodious Christmas carols eclipsed only by the grand entry of huge convoy of Kerala Drum beats headed by fully attired dancing Santa Claus kicked-off a spectacular Christmas Nite Banquet at the colorfully decked Meadows Club on December 14, 2018 in Rolling Meadows, IL.

The mesmerizing high-decibel sounds of Kerala drum beats reverberating the hall joyfully unveiled the grand evening of great festive fervor which was followed by dazzling dance performances and musical carols each heartwarmingly unveiled the profoundly beautiful story of Christmas spectacularly depicted through songs, dance and music.

The Christmas Nite Banquet hosted under the aegis of South Asian Christian Cultural Association [SACCA] attracted a great host of elected officials headed by U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, State Senator-elect Ram Villivalam, Oakbrook Mayor Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, Bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath, Air-India’s Chief Malini Vaidyanathan, Redberri Corp CEO Deepakant Vyas joined by large number of business and community leaders including SBI Manager Amit Jihngran, PM Mortgage CEO Ashok Lakshmanan, Joyallukas Jewelers Manager Justin Joseph, SBI-VP Deepa Nath, Ajeet Singh, Harish Kolasani, Prachi Jaitley and Dhitu Bhagvakar.

The glittering banquet set off in motion with lamp lighting ceremony lead by U.S.Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi who in his remarks applauded the organizers and extolled the spirit of Christmas, which he emphasized, fosters peace, goodwill and love. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi who inspired a new generation of new leaders added that he would like to see a public figure emerging from the south Indian Christian community. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi publicly acknowledged and thanked Gladson Varghese and Keerthi Kumar Ravoori and his team for hosting this grand event celebrating the essence of Christmas.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi presented special plaques of appreciation to Mr. Ashok Lakshmanan, Mr. Amit Jhingran, State Bank of India and Joseph of Joyallukas Jewelry. Malini Vaidyanathan of Air-India was honored with floral bouquets for her outstanding support to the community events and projects.

State Senator Ram Villivalam [elect] presented seasons’ greetings and thanked the community for all the support he has received in his electoral victory as the new State Senator in the 8th Senatorial district.

Bishop Jacob Angadiath gave an uplifting Christmas sermonette that presented the central theme of the birth of Jesus Christ, which he said, is very foundation of Christmas. Bishop Angadiath said Christmas exemplifies love, peace, joy and hope. Anto Kavalackal presented an introduction to Bishop.

The highlight of the evening was ethereally melodious carols and anthems presented by the acclaimed St. Thomas Marthoma Church choir with over 30 singers directed by Choir Director Jacob George in a repertoire performance enhanced by candlelit ambience with a sparkling collection of timeless carols evoked sustained applause and some standing ovation. Young dancers who put grace, beauty and emotions in their dances illustrating the story of Christmas beautifully presented the evening’s dance presentations from Kala Dance Academy choreographed by Ruth Varghese and Surya Dance Academy.

Earlier, Gladson Varghese, Chairman welcomed the elected officials and thanked the gathering of families of all faiths for unitedly celebrating Christmas with a greater sense of appreciation, love and understanding. Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Banquet Convener presiding over the evening’s banquet served as the emcee, introduced the chief guests, and elected officials. Keerthi Ravoori called the Christmas banquet a celebration of inter-faith unity during this festive season. Emmanuel Neela, President SACCA presented seasonal remarks and outlined future programs; while Vasanth Charles presented an overview of the history of South Asian Christian Cultural Assn [SACCA] and Satish Dadepogu proposed a vote of thanks. Margaret Sanyogita Charles, Shirley Kalvakota & Persis Dadepogu led the lamp-lighting ceremony and intermittently took to the stage in the honoring ceremonies presenting shawl and flower bouquets to Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi in appreciation of his gracious presence and support; to State Senator [elect] Ram Villivalam on his recent electoral victory and to Shree Guruswamy for presenting beautiful cultural dance presentations and Oakbrook Mayor Dr. Gopal Lalmalani.

Johnson Kodipally, Merari Bushpaka, Vijay, Michael Konda, Tony Chettupally, Mohit, and Sheetal & Komal Panchal presented the Telugu carols; while Rev. Rajamani Gonu, Rev. Dr. David Vidyasagar, Rev. Omega Verma, Dan Williams, and Prem presented the closing Christmas Skit with musical score by Michael Konda.

Chinmaya Mission Chicago’s Annual Fund Raising Banquet 2018

December 26, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The Annual Fundraising Banquet for Chinmaya Mission Chicago (CMC) harmoniously blended inspirational thoughts, spirited fundraising, sumptuous food, and artistic music performance by Eclipse Nirvana into a memorable evening. The event took place at Waterford Banquet and Conference Center in Elmhurst, IL on December 1, 2018. The goal was to raise funds for the existing and upcoming special projects offered by the three Chinmaya Mission centers in the Chicago area—Badri Center in Willowbrook, IL, Yamunotri Center in Grayslake, IL, and Gangotri Center in downtown Chicago area on Grand avenue.

With over seven hundred people in attendance and more than two hundred thousand dollars raised, the event was an overwhelming show of support for the spiritual and service-oriented work being done by Chinmaya Mission, both at the local and global level. Over five hundred thousand dollars were pledged toward interest free loans.

Chinmaya Mission was founded in the 1950s by the devotees of one of the greatest Vedantic Masters of twentieth century, Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda.. Its purpose as stated in the words of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda is, “To provide to individuals from any background the wisdom of Vedanta and the practical means for spiritual growth and happiness, enabling them to become positive contributors to society.”

The evening began ceremoniously by welcoming the revered guests, invited dignitaries and supporters including special guest and speaker acharya Shri Gaurang Nanavaty, head of the Chinmaya Mission Houston center. Gaurang Uncle’s inspirational message about the value of pursuing Higher Ideals and shifting our focus to Selfless Service moved everyone to aspire toward keeping the Timeless Values and traditions alive and well through the Bala Vihar and study group grassroots activities offered by the local mission centers.

Chinmaya Mission Chicago’s beloved resident Swami, Swami Sharanananda gave his love and blessings. Posted to CMC by Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda, Respected Shri Jetindra Nayar, Smt Swapna Nayar, Shri Dhiren Khatri also graced the occasion.

Shri Shanker Pillai, president of Chinmaya Mission Chicago outlined the goals, activities, expansion plans, and the need for funds to continue in meeting the growing needs of the community. Dr. Ashok Dholakia, vice-president of CMC elaborated on the existing Badri building complex expansion plan which is currently in the final planning/bidding stage and is expected to be completed within 2 years.

Shri Shanker Pillai elaborated on the building of well-planned retirement/senior homes adjacent to the Badri Center, to support the physical and spiritual needs of senior citizens. This is unique ‘no cost’ concept is designed so as not to incur costs to the occupants other than living and maintenance. One, two and three bedroom units ranging in cost of $150,00to $300,000 based on the unit selected, to be refunded to the occupant or family member upon change of occupancy. The anticipated timeline is 2 years for the completion of this project. Preliminary zoning and other work has already begun. There is a lot of interest in this project and interested people are requested to sign up by contacting Sri Shanker Pillai at 630-886-6442.

The entertainment for the evening was provided by the musical group Eclipse Nirvana, a group specializing in devotional music.

High school youth provided service throughout the evening by babysitting children of banquet attendees and helping with collecting donation envelopes.

The event came to a conclusion with the chanting of Bhagavad Gita chapter XV, followed by a delicious meal served by India House restaurant. Shri Arun Mehrotra, secretary of CMC gave the thank you address. A complementary souvenir book featuring inspiring articles, information about classes offered at Chinmaya Mission Chicago, class pictures, and advertisements from local supporting companies was given to each family as a token of appreciation for attending the banquet. Special mention of Smt. Smriti Mehta and Shri Suresh Kumar for the extra effort directed toward the successful production of this booklet.

Bala Vihar is an integral part of Chinmaya Mission and was started by Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda to instill good values right from childhood and inspire kids to live a nobler life. In his own words, “Children are not vessels to be filled, but lamps to be lit.”

For over 39 years, Chinmaya Mission has been serving the Chicagoland area by conducting weekly Bala Vihar classes & adult study groups, summer youth camps, and spiritual retreats. Please contact Shri Shanker Pillai (630-886-6442) for details regarding activities at Badri Center (11S080 Rte. 83, Willowbrook, IL 60527/www.mychinmaya.org) center, Mrs. Rajul Bhalala (847-302-2383) for details regarding Yamunotri Center activities (30877 N Fairfield Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030/ www.chinmaya-yamunotri.org). Mr. Nitish Kanabar (347-829-9099) for Chicago City Center- Gangotri, 955 W Grand Ave, Chicago IL 60642

Chicago Medical Society hosts Annual Holiday Reception

December 26, 2018 Asian Media USABusiness, Community, Health 0

Chicago IL: The Chicago Medical Society held the Annual Holiday Reception on Thursday, December 6, 2018 at The Standard Club in Chicago. This festive Medical Society tradition allows members and guests to relax and, for newcomers, it provides a friendly welcome to the Organization.

Dr. Vemuri S. Murthy, President of the Chicago Medical Society and the Executive Committee welcomed the members and honored guests. Several CEOs, Deans and Other Executives of the Chicago area Medical Schools and Hospitals attended the colorful event besides a number of distinguished community leaders.

Founded in 1850, the Chicago Medical Society is one of the oldest and largest medical societies in the United States. The Society advocates for 17000 Chicagoland physicians and their 5 million patients. The Society has a track record of improving public health locally and has ongoing community programs including CPR training (Project SMILE ,”Saving More Illinois Lives through Education”). The members have the opportunity to learn about trends in the practice of medicine through committee participation, policy development, educational seminars and publications. In addition, the members enjoy networking opportunities, membership services, and grassroots political advocacy.

Reprisal Killings of Journalists Surged This Year

December 26, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Reprisal killings of journalists because of their work nearly doubled in 2018, bringing the total number of journalists killed on the job to the highest point in three years, a press advocacy group reported on Wednesday.

The October killing of the Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi by a Saudi hit squad in Turkey may have been the most prominent case, but journalists were targeted for death all over the world this year — including in the United States, where a gunman killed five people in a Maryland newsroom.

At least 53 journalists were killed worldwide, according to a database compiled by the Committee to Protect Journalists, a New York-based organization that keeps detailed records of deaths and imprisonments in the news profession.

Of those journalists, the database showed that at least 34 had been killed because of their work, compared with 18 in 2017. The database covered killings between Jan. 1 and Dec. 14.

More journalists were killed than in any year since 2015, when the total was 73, the database showed. At least 50 journalists were killed in 2016 and 47 in 2017.

The Committee to Protect Journalists monitors three categories of journalist deaths on the job: reprisal killings, deaths in combat or crossfire, and deaths on other hazardous assignments, such as riots.

The latest findings reinforced what press advocates have described as an increasingly dangerous and repressive climate for journalists nearly everywhere.

The deadliest country for journalists in 2018 was Afghanistan, where 13 were killed. That is the most in any year for Afghanistan since the Committee to Protect Journalists began keeping detailed track of journalist deaths globally in 1992.

The findings were released a week after the group issued an annual tally of jailed journalists that showed at least 250 were behind bars in 2018 for the third consecutive year. The group said the jailings reflected an authoritarian response to critical news coverage that represented “the new normal.”

The increase in killings this year after two years of decline, combined with the data on jailings, amounts to “a profound global crisis in press freedom,” the Committee to Protect Journalists said in a statement.

The group blamed the crisis partly on what it called a “lack of international leadership on journalists’ rights and safety,” pointing to the killing of Mr. Khashoggi as a prime example.

Mr. Khashoggi, a Saudi who lived in self-imposed exile in the United States, was a prominent critic of Saudi Arabia’s crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, the de facto leader of the kingdom, who has little or no tolerance for dissent.

The Central Intelligence Agency has concluded that the crown prince directed the Saudi operatives who killed and dismembered Mr. Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. But the victim’s most ardent defender, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, is no supporter of a free press — his government has imprisoned more journalists than any other.

And while the United States historically has been a strong defender of press freedom, President Trump has not only disputed the C.I.A.’s conclusions blaming Prince Mohammed but has suggested that America’s strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia takes priority regardless.

“Essentially, Trump signaled that countries that do enough business with the United States are free to murder journalists without consequence,” the Committee to Protect Journalists said.

Press advocates have repeatedly criticized Mr. Trump for his denunciations of coverage he does not like as “fake news” and for his description of news organizations as the “enemy of the people.” A number of prominent news executives, including from The New York Times, have said that the president’s words put the physical safety of journalists at risk.

(Courtesy: The New York Times)

‘Hand yourself over to human justice’: Pope Francis tells priests guilty of abuse the church won’t shield them

December 26, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

Pope Francis used one of his major annual Christmas speeches to offer some of his strongest words about this year’s heightened sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic church, telling guilty priests the church will not protect them and they should turn themselves in.

“To those who abuse minors I would say this: convert and hand yourself over to human justice, and prepare for divine justice,” Francis said in a speech at the Vatican on Friday.

Speaking to the Roman Curia — the central governing leadership of the Vatican — Francis described at length the sinfulness of priests who prey on children. “Often behind their boundless amiability, impeccable activity and angelic faces, they shamelessly conceal a vicious wolf ready to devour innocent souls,” he said, in remarks that drew often on the example of the sinful biblical King David. “Let it be clear that before these abominations the Church will spare no effort to do all that is necessary to bring to justice whosoever has committed such crimes. The church will never seek to hush up or not take seriously any case.”

Survivor advocates slammed Francis for focusing on priest-abusers rather than the leaders and system that protect them, while other Vatican observers praised his comments as a dramatic acknowledgment of the scope of the problem.

Francis’s call for abusers to turn themselves in “is silly. To command psychologically sick people to do the right thing? It’s also deceptive,” said Anne Barrett Doyle, co-director of Bishop Accountability, which documents abuse. “This speech represents a regression to the defense we heard from John Paul II, that the problem was with the perpetrators. We now know the more fundamental problem is with the complicit and deceptive hierarchy.”

Other church-watchers saw Francis’s comments as groundbreaking for implying a role for civil officials, not just the church, to hold priests accountable. “Francis has sought to drive a stake through the heart of a clericalist mentality in the Church that protected abusers,” wrote Christopher Lamb, an analyst for The Tablet, a progressive Catholic news site. Francis, he wrote Friday, is “ending an ‘in house’ approach to handling abuse.”

Francis acknowledged in his address the church has in the past “treated many cases without the seriousness and promptness that was due. That must never happen again. This is the choice and the decision of the whole church.”

He was speaking Friday morning to global leaders of a church that has seen abuse scandals break out on nearly every continent in recent years, from Australia to Chile to Ireland to the United States, plunging the church into fresh crisis. The Vatican has called a first-of-its-kind global meeting in February to address clergy sex abuse, and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops will soon hold a week-long spiritual retreatto address the topic.

In the U.S., two developments drew new attention the problem this summer: a major Pennsylvania grand jury report, which documented allegations of crimes by more than 300 priests involving about 1,000 children and inspired similar criminal and civil investigations in more than a dozen states; and the removal of ex-cardinal Theodore McCarrick, a longtime leader in the church who was publicly accused this year of sexual misconduct toward minors and adults.

The U.S. bishops all convened in November for a meeting where they pledged to draft new policies for preventing abuse, but then they received a letter from the Vatican in the hours before the meeting began, telling them not to take any action. The bishops were stunned by the Vatican’s directive that they wait for a global meeting of bishops on the abuse crisis in February.

That February meeting, Francis promised in his Christmas speech, will make progress on the issue. He said the meeting will include experts on preventing child abuse. “An effort will be made to make past mistakes opportunities for eliminating this scourge,” he said. Advocates for victims, who have long criticized Francis’s handling of the issue, were skeptical.

“While refusing to reveal the name of one cleric who committed or concealed child sex crimes, Francis gives yet another promise about ending cover ups,” David Clohessy, the former director of the victims’ group SNAP, wrote in an email to reporters. “Just this week, in one US state alone, Illinois, we learned there are 500 accused priests whose identities are being protected by bishops. Across the globe, there must be tens of thousands . . . If he’s serious, Francis could show it by suspending all Illinois bishops until they ‘come clean’ or the attorney general’s investigation clears them of wrongdoing. The pope could end this reckless secrecy but just continues pontificating.”

Shree Saini is Miss India Worldwide 2018

December 19, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Entertainment, Fashion 0

Indian-American Shree Saini was crowned Miss India Worldwide 2018 at a glittering pageant held at the Royal Alberts Palace, in Fords, New Jersey on Friday, December 14, 2018.

Shree, 22, who was told by the doctors that she can never dance after being installed with a pacemaker at the age of 12, said one should never give up. “I truly believe your legacy is defined by how you make others feel and the positive difference you make in your lifetime,” said Shree, who started her non-profit organisation, when she was 15. Shree said it was her dream to compete for a world title, which was started when she was in the elementary school.

Indian-origin girls from as many as 17 countries participated in the annual beauty pageant on the final day, while nearly 40 women from as many countries from around the world had competed fro the coveted title. Organised by the New York-based India Festival Committee (IFC), the pageant is said to be the oldest and largest event for the Indian Diaspora community.

Sakshi Sinha from Australia and Anusha Sareen from United Kingdom were respectively declared first and second runner ups in the 27th annual global pageant for people of Indian origin.

India’s Mandeep Kaur Sandhu, who hails from Haryana, was crowned Mrs India Worldwide 2018. A mother to a boy, she lost her husband in a road accident in the first year of her marriage. “I decided to stay single to show to all those who told me that I cannot raise a child alone being a widow. I am here to represent all the widow women. If I can do it, you can do it,” Mandeep said. Jeya Priya Pandian from Malaysia and Kavita Malhotra Pattani from USA were declared the first and second runner ups of the Mrs India Worldwide 2018 respectively.

The next edition of the Miss India Worldwide will be held in Mumbai in 2019, said Dharmatma Saran, chairman and founder of the India Festival Committee that organises the pageant.

“We are proud of the fact that we have been able to imbibe Indian values, tradition and culture among Indian origin youths across the world,” he said. “We have also been successful in promoting Indian performing arts in the world,” Saran said.

Beautiful, compassionate, talented, ambitious, gentle, humble, determined and dedicated to achieving the lofty goals she has set before herself at a very young age, Shree Saini is a woman with a golden heart. Shree from the state of Washington was born in India. She immigrated to the United States as a toddler.

Being uprooted from one’s culture and dear ones was undoubtedly a major challenge. She had to experience hardships while in high school, where she was bullied. Young Shree fought bravely a heart ailment which required her to use a pacemaker. Shree, who had a pacemaker implanted at the age of 12 and was told that she would never be able to dance, is an inspiration for all. “I practice dance almost every day for several hours,” Shree says, pointing to the pacemaker she carries with her all the time.

After doctors diagnosed her with a congenital heart defect at the age of 12, Saini recalls how she struggled to adapt to the life-changing situation of needing a pacemaker while still in middle school, especially when other students did not treat her kindly as a result.

“I have been the target of brutal emotional bullying. I was ridiculed in the most subtle ways, which is why I so often talk about ‘nonverbal’ bullying. For example, there were many instances where I was left out of events or edited out of pictures, and daily ‘whispered about’ by others. As a result of this treatment, there were many times when I would cry in my school’s restrooms or come home in tears after dance class… yet I persevered.

“My family helped me endure,” she explains. “My mom said, ‘the way people treat you has nothing to do with you, but has everything to do with them.’ She empowered me to step up and be even more compassionate towards those who hurt me, and to never give up on my true belief in always being kind.”

In order to reprogram her brain towards more positive thoughts and reach an understanding of how she could find inner peace in spite of all the negativity, she read extensively. “I read books and essays on achieving a more powerful mindset, responding to acts of hate with compassion, and the true value of emotional fitness and what can be done to address the lack of education around it. From what I have learned, I have formed my personal mantra: ‘Giving powerful responses to life’s struggles while being a positive contributor to every situation.’”

These experiences did not deter young Shree from pursuing her life’s mission. “My journey went from a silent sufferer to a bitter person and finally an enabled victor,” she says. “If anything, the physical challenges and social pressures fueled her – all the way to the Joffrey Ballet and beyond, including winning the title of Miss India USA.”

Shree created the website www.ShreeSaini.com to educate people about her experiences. “It was created based on my personal struggles during my high school,” Saini says. Her hope is that it would inspire others to emulate and face the world with confidence and love. Her former tormentors are now her fans. Via social media, she’s received their congratulations – and apologies.

A woman with a noble mission, what the 22-year-old University of Washington student, is aspiring to achieve in her life, is to create awareness on a number of pressing social issues through her organization, and through her web-portal. “I began my nonprofit at age 15. I work on raising awareness and raising funds for several nonprofits including anti-human trafficking and anti-bullying,” the young visionary says. “I am very passionate about my non-profit and want to lead a life of service,” she says. “I want to help end human trafficking and work to promote the importance of emotional well-being in our society.”

In addition, she uses the many social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, among others, to enhance her life’s mission. Through Shree Saini YouTube page, she wants to spread her message by creating short videos of discussions on social issues, college life, raising awareness of important organizations and human rights, as well as anything to help the community.

Shree won the Miss India USA after many years of focus and practice, participating and winning in several pageants. Shree has competed in a number of pageants within the Miss America organization. She was the first runner-up at Miss Moses Lake 2014, Miss Seattle 2016 and Miss Seattle 2017. She also won the Miss Seattle People’s Choice Award in 2016 and 2017, and Miss Congeniality, Highest Fundraiser, Director’s Award. All her pageant exposure has served as a platform for what she truly loves, in spreading awareness against bullying and other social issues. As Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, says, “Shree has used her platform to spread her story of perseverance, tolerance and heart health.”

Miss India USA was started by the New York-based community leaders Dharmatma Saran and Neelam Saran, under the banner of the India Festival Committee around 36 years ago, Miss India USA is the longest running Indian pageant outside India. “It has evolved over the years. Earlier, the participants of pageants presented their talent around Bollywood dance and songs and classical dances. But now pageant participants come out with their own innovations,” Dharmatma Saran said.

“I am so incredibly honored, overjoyed, humbled and excited to be chosen as your “MISS INDIA WORLDWIDE 2018”! God’s amazing grace has surpassed all the words I may have to express this fete. I am astonished by the blessings showered over me,” she wrote on her Facebook page.

Shree Saini has been in a public profile for years. She literally can make her choice on how she wants to mould her image and pave the way for her future. Shree Saini, an undergraduate student at the University of Washington pursuing a double degree in public administration and business, wants to “lead a life of service.” When asked between the many engagements around the nation, where she finds the time to study, Shree says, “I study on the plane, while waiting for flights, as almost every weekend, there is an event I need to attend.”

Her passion for education started when she was very young. Even in high school, her drive led Shree to graduate with the highest number of high school credits (46, although only 26 were required). “I know education is vital to solving any of the world’s problems, and have therefore always stayed curious and dedicated myself to obtaining life skills, like public speaking, as well as gaining more knowledge by studying political science at Harvard University, and establishing my own emotional wellbeing startup at Stanford University.”

Pointing to the hard work she had to put in, Shree says, the Acting Program she attended at Yale was a very intensive conservatory program for actors comprised of 12+ hours of classes daily, which were then followed by rehearsals. With my heart condition, I had to work extra hard (just as I need to do in dance or as a UW student) in order to match the performance level of other physically-able actors. And, she succeeded through determination and hard work.

Shree’s ambition to learn and conquer what she is set to achieve in life has taken Shree to some of the most prestigious schools across the United States. Saini, who studied journalism at UW and has attended as a visiting student at Harvard, Yale and Stanford, aspires to push legislation through local governments.

After dealing with her own personal experiences, Saini penciled her thoughts in a journal, which she said helped change her from a victim to an empowered young woman. The journals in her diary turned to newspaper clippings in local papers in Washington. “In a society mainly obsessed with physical fitness, emotional problems are dismissed,” noted the young activist. “Emotional well-being is necessary to have a healthy body and mind,” she says.

Shree is working on pushing through a Bill nationwide that will help implement emotional well-being classes for K through 12. “The classes will help start at a young age to build self-esteem.” Saini hopes to follow up her undergraduate degree with graduate courses at an Ivy League school, where she intends to study public administration or policy making and nonprofit management.

A brilliant student and learner, Shree believes that children learn what they live in their own households. “Parents need to radiate kindness, and be generous enough to overlook minor offenses, while still raising responsible kids who will heal our societies.”

Shree gives credit to her parents, Sanjay and Ekta Saini, who have not only supported her dreams, but have gone beyond to help her succeed at every step of the way. Pointing to her mother, Ekta, Shree says, “My mother is my role model, who has been with me, supported me and have encouraged me to work hard and realize my dreams.”

As the reigning Miss India Worldwide, “I believe I will be able to make even more of an impact. During my reign, I am responsible for reaching out to individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and schools to make at least 100 appearances during the next 12 months. At every event, I strive to raise public awareness about the value of emotional fitness. I find I am able to engage audiences by asking them my most powerful question: ‘What is more important to you than your own emotional wellbeing?’ I also share my personal story of receiving a pacemaker at age 12, being brutally bullied, and then having to build myself back up emotionally.” She is committed to live a life of service where she intends to teach people about love, harmony and tolerance.

Regarding her future goals and ambitions, Shree is candid about her choices. If good offers come her way, Shree is open to acting in movies, whether it be in Bollywood or Hollywood. Another effective way to showcase her talents and still more importantly, another way to champion and spread her message for a better, just and peaceful world. “Meanwhile, I want to continue working on my nonprofit and become an ambassador of emotional health by continuing to visit as many places as possible, spreading my positive message of hope,” Saini says.

Climate Negotiators Reach an Overtime Deal to Keep Paris Pact Alive

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Diplomats from nearly 200 countries reached a deal on Saturday, December 15^th, 2018 to keep the Paris climate agreement alive by adopting a detailed set of rules to implement the pact. The deal, struck after an all-night bargaining session, will ultimately require every country in the world to follow a uniform set of standards for measuring their planet-warming emissions and tracking their climate policies. And it calls on countries to step up their plans to cut emissions ahead of another round of talks in 2020.

It also calls on richer countries to be clearer about the aid they intend to offer to help poorer nations install more clean energy or build resilience against natural disasters. And it builds a process in which countries that are struggling to meet their emissions goals can get help in getting back on track.

The United States agreed to the deal despite President Trump’s vow to abandon the Paris Agreement. Diplomats and climate change activists said they hoped that fact would make it easier for the administration to change its mind and stay in the Paris Agreement, or for a future president to embrace the accord once again. The United States cannot formally withdraw from the agreement until late 2020.

Observers said United States negotiators worked constructively behind the scenes with China on transparency rules. The two countries had long been at odds because China had insisted on different reporting rules for developing countries, while the United States favoured consistent emissions-accounting rules and wanted all countries to be subject to the same outside scrutiny.

“The U.S. got a clear methodology to make sure that China and India are meeting their targets,” said Jake Schmidt, international policy director at the Natural Resources Defense Council. “That creates the level playing field they have been asking for.”

Many of the attendees at this year’s United Nations climate talks — known as COP24, shorthand for their formal name — expressed disappointment at what they saw as half measures to deal with a mounting climate crisis. Greenhouse gas emissions are still rising around the world, and millions of people are facing increased risks from severe droughts, floods and wildfires.

But supporters of the deal reached Saturday said that they hoped the new rules would help build a virtuous cycle of trust and cooperation among countries, at a time when global politics seems increasingly fractured.

“Particularly given the broader geopolitical context, this is a pretty solid outcome,” said Elliot Diringer, executive vice president of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. “It delivers what we need to get the Paris Agreement off the ground.’’

Most delegates at the talks had wanted to formally endorse a major report issued in October by the United Nations scientific panel on climate change, which said that fossil-fuel emissions would have to fall roughly in half within 12 years to avoid severe climate disruptions.

But the United States and three other big oil producers — Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Russia — tried to weaken the statement’s language, enraging delegates from some of the most at-risk nations. By Friday, negotiators had crafted compromise language that expressed “appreciation and gratitude” for the report.

Then, on Friday, Brazil’s delegation held up the talks all through the night because it was fiercely opposed to proposed changes in rules around carbon trading markets. Negotiators eventually agreed to table the issue until next year.

With a diplomatic framework still alive and rules of the road in place, analysts said it was now up to individual countries to come back before the 2020 talks with concrete pledges to cut emissions more deeply. A few countries, including Chile, Vietnam and Norway, have already said they will start that review process.

When world leaders signed the Paris agreement in 2015, they said they would try to limit the rise in global temperatures to roughly 1.5 degrees Celsius, or 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit, above preindustrial levels to avoid climate-related disasters like widespread food shortages and mass coral die-offs.

But with global fossil-fuel emissions still rising each year, the planet is now quite likely to cross that temperature threshold within 35 years.

“The real test is what happens when countries go home,” said Alden Meyer, director of policy and strategy at the Union of Concerned Scientists. “All the decision text in the world doesn’t cut a molecule of carbon. You need action on the ground.” In some countries, political obstacles to climate action are mounting.

Some experts at the talks argued that the march of cheaper, cleaner energy technologies would do far more to break the deadlock around climate policy than any complicated treaties could.

“Look at countries like China and India that are going ahead with renewables for their own reasons,” said Saleemul Huq, director of Bangladesh’s International Center for Climate Change and Development. “That’s what we need: for countries to move in that direction because it makes sense to them, not because they signed up for an agreement and they’re supposed to.”

“Of course it’s important to have these rules, but a lot of the real action is happening by entrepreneurs; it’s happening by business people; it’s happening by the finance sector; by the money flowing; it’s happening at the city and state level,” said Catherine McKenna, Canada’s environment minister. “Climate change is a complicated problem,” she said, “and it’s not going to be solved by national governments alone.”

Anurima Bhargava appointed to U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

A veteran Indian American civil rights attorney Anurima Bhargava has been appointed to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom by Speaker-Elect, California’s Congresswoman, Nancy Pelosi.

In a statement announcing the appointment, USCIRF chair Tenzin Dorjee said, “I commend Leader Pelosi for this superb appointment. With an impressive background and a demonstrated commitment to advocating for members of minority communities in the United States and abroad, Anurima Bhargava brings an important new perspective that will enhance the work of the Commission, especially on democratic India, with whom the United States has a long and proud relationship.”

“I very much look forward to working with her to advance the fundamental right of all people to exercise their freedom of religion or belief,” said Dorjee, who was also appointed to the Commission in 2016 by Pelosi, and re-appointed in May.

Bhargava is the founder and president of the Anthem of Us, an organization which aims to highlight civil rights issues in underserved communities through legal advocacy, and documentary films.

The Harvard alumnus, who earned her law degree at Columbia University, formerly served as the chief of the Educational Opportunities Section of the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice during the Obama Administration. During her six-year tenure there, Bhargava led ant-discrimination efforts on school campuses including school segregation; school discipline and the school to prison pipeline; harassment and bullying; sexual assault; and protecting educational access and services for English Learner, LGBT and undocumented students.

She has served on numerous task forces and working groups, including the White House Task Force to Prevent Campus Sexual Assault and the Supportive School Discipline Initiative.

Bhargava has been an ardent opponent of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos’s attempts to roll back provisions protecting victims of rape on college campuses. DeVos has also issued a new set of proposed rules on Title IX regarding the responsibilities of primary and secondary schools, as well as universities, to address sexual assault and harassment.

Prior to joining the Justice Department, Bhargava served as the director of the Education Practice at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, where she was actively engaged in litigation and advocacy to expand educational access and opportunities for students of color, according to her Harvard profile. She previously worked at the New York City Department of Education and clerked in the Southern District of New York.

Bhargava has served as a fellow at the Open Society Foundations and at Harvard University. Before attending law school, Bhargava worked in India assisting women elected to local government. She has been a member of the Truman National Security Project and the Council on Foreign Relations.She was born and raised on the south side of Chicago.

Earlier this year, Sen. Charles Schumer, D-New York, appointed Indian American businessman Andy Khawaja to the commission. Khawaja is the founder and chief executive officer of Allied Wallet. In 2016, a diplomatic kerfuffle occurred when India refused to issue visas to two USCIRF commissioners.

USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze and report on threats to religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the president, the secretary of state, and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief.

‘I Am Hindu American’ Campaign launched

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

The Hindu American Foundation has launched a new campaign, “I Am Hindu American,” in a bid to improve awareness of the Hindu religion and Hindu Americans. The multi-platform initiative includes a social-media campaign, a 30-second public service announcement, and a companion website to provide resources about Hinduism and Hindu Indian Americans.

In collaboration with more than 300 community partners around the country, the PSA is being distributed through social media networks nationwide to boost awareness and clarify common stereotypes and misunderstandings about Hinduism, the organization stated in a press release.

The platform will be interactive, encouraging Hindu Americans to upload a photo of themselves and share how Hinduism inspires them in their everyday lives.

“There are many Hindu contributions to our daily lives: from yoga and meditation to the decimal system as well as an understanding of the law of cause and effect known as karma,” said the organization.

“The goal of the ‘I Am Hindu American’ campaign is to drive online conversation by putting a face on the Hindu American community. Despite the fact that Hindus are one of the most successful minority communities, knowledge about Hindus and Hinduism is very low among the US general public,” said Suhag Shukla, executive director and co-founder of HAF. “Our own data shows that one in three Hindu-American students report being bullied for their religious beliefs. Most of this is based on misperceptions about Hindus and we want to change that narrative.”

Pointing out to the statistics released earlier this month by the FBI, saying hate crime incidents reported to the FBI increased by about 17 percent in 2017 as compared to 2016, another goal of the “I Am Hindu American” campaign, said HAF, is to “educate about Hinduism during a period where the country has seen a rise in religious intolerance.”

Amid speculation that Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) will declare her presidential bid for 2020, HAF said, it is an “important time” for Hindus in America, adding that Gabbard would be the first Hindu candidate ever from a major political party to enter the race for the White House.

“I am grateful to be a part of this initiative featuring the stories of Americans across the country who are sharing how their Hindu faith inspires them in their everyday lives,” stated Gabbard.

HAF adds that Congress currently has four Hindu members: Gabbard, Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.).

“Hinduism is the world’s oldest living religion, a global and universal religion with adherents living on every continent and are a part of the American fabric. Hinduism is no longer confined to Indians, and like Buddhism has been embraced by people from many cultures,” said Dena Merriam, a leader in the interfaith movement. To learn more about “I Am Hindu American,” visit www.IAmHinduAmerican.org.

Indian Ambassador Navtej Sarna given warm farewell

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Indian Ambassador to the United States Navtej Sarna was given a warm send off on December 13th, as diplomats from both the countries praised the Trump administration and the state of bilateral relations. Sarna, who took over as Ambassador November 2016, ends an illustrious 38-year foreign service career with his posting in Washington.

In an extraordinary move and to showcase the strength of the ties that bind the two countries, the farewell was hosted by the State Department at Blair House, opposite the White House, a residence reserved for heads of state during visits to this country.

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Alice Wells told the gathering President Trump calls India a “true friend,” and pointed to the two years during which the “Indo-Pacific” region was renamed, And Secretary of State Mike Pompeo “has characterized the U.S.-India bilateral relationship as one deeply bound by our shared values,” Wells is quoted saying in news reports, at the event attended by top White House and State Department officials.

Both Wells and Sarna dwelt on the accomplishments of the past two years, the highlight of which was the state visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi; as well as the inauguration of the new 2+2 Dialogue on security and strategic priorities

“Under your leadership in our countries have negotiated and finalized a landmark communications compatibility and security agreement, which makes our military cooperation more profound and advanced. We have also taken significant steps to build on India’s status as a US major defence partner, including elevating India to strategic trade authorization, tier one status,” Wells is quoted saying in a Financial Express news report. She also praised Sarna for engaging the 3-million strong Indian-American community in the U.S., to strengthen relations.

Sarna noted that the “personal chemistry” between Modi and President Donald Trump “were so strong” and “so, so evident,” resulting in the joint statement which would set the chart for bilateral relations in coming months

“We have found a huge amount of understanding for our political space, for our strategic autonomy, for the needs of our economy, for our role, for our taking into account our art history and our regional position vis a vis several other countries,” Sarna is quoted saying, adding that the two countries had found ways to serve their own national interests and still grow the relationship.

Chandrika Tandon to receive Horatio Alger Award

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Education, Women 0

Indian American business leader Chandrika Tandon will be receiving the 2019 Horatio Alger Award, among 12 others, from the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization honoring the achievements of outstanding individuals and encouraging youth to pursue their dreams through higher education.

Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization honoring the achievements of outstanding individuals and encouraging youth to pursue their dreams through higher education, has announced that Chandrika K. Tandon, Chair and Founder of Tandon Capital Associates, Soul Chants Music, and the Krishnamurthy Tandon Foundation has been selected for membership in this prestigious organization.

For more than 70 years, the Horatio Alger Award has been annually bestowed upon esteemed individuals who have succeeded despite adversity, and who have remained committed to higher education and charitable endeavors throughout their lives.

Ms. Tandon was born the first daughter of a traditional family in Chennai, India. Raised from an early age to make a good wife, her only exposure to the world at large was through music and the poetry and literature her grandfather shared with her. Though she dreamt of making music her life’s work, she was discouraged, as it was not considered a respectable profession at the time. Ms. Tandon instead pursued business, not knowing that music would find her again later in life. Fighting for her dreams against the narrow future her family envisioned, she went on hunger strikes to be allowed to leave home for college and business school. In 1973, Ms. Tandon graduated with a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Madras Christian College, and went on to attend the prestigious Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad for her MBA. Immediately thereafter, she began her career for Citibank, starting in war-torn Beirut.

At age 24, Ms. Tandon immigrated to the United States to work for McKinsey and Company, becoming the first Indian woman hired, and all without an American education. She found herself advising CEOs on their biggest problems even though she didn’t own a business suit, didn’t know how to drive, and was totally new to American culture. With a dogged determination to create impact for businesses and clients, coupled with a fearsome work ethic, she made partner at the firm within a few years. In 1990, she risked her life savings to found Tandon Capital Associates, a financial advisory company, restructuring preeminent financial institutions worldwide, and creating billions of dollars of market cap. This decision quickly catapulted her to a new echelon.

At the pinnacle of her career, despite all the trappings of success, Ms. Tandon became increasingly tormented by life’s bigger questions. She was compelled to reevaluate her definitions of success, and self-reflection led her to remember that the happiest moments of her childhood were tied to music. Ms. Tandon decided to pursue singing as an extension of her professional life, often leaving home at 4:00 a.m. for lessons on Saturdays so that she could learn from artists she idolized. Her dedication to the craft has since gained admiration around the world, allowing her to perform for millions, release four albums, and in 2011, garnering her a Grammy nomination for her album, Soul Call.

“Chandrika is a visionary who took control of her future at a young age,” said Matthew Rose, president, Horatio Alger Association and 2013 Horatio Alger Award recipient. “Despite barriers, she never lost sight of her goals, and fought for the life she wanted and deserved. We are delighted to welcome Chandrika as a lifetime Member, and I look forward to sharing her story of triumph and accomplishment with our Scholars.”

In the past 20 years, Ms. Tandon has used her business skills and resources pro bono to better humanity and commit to a life of public service. Through the Krishnamurthy Tandon Foundation, she strategically directs resources to create pathways to economic, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being for all. As one of the largest Indian-American donors to American higher education, Ms. Tandon and her husband have given $100 million to the New York University (NYU) Polytechnic School of Engineering, renamed the NYU Tandon School of Engineering. She serves as Vice Chair of the NYU Board of Trustees and sits on the boards of the NYU Langone Health System, the NYU Stern School of Business and the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. From 2002 to 2008, she served as NYU Stern’s Distinguished Executive in Residence, where she lectured about business transformation and leadership, and earned the Walter Nichols Medal in 2009. In 2016, she received the university’s highest honor, the Gallatin Medal.

“I spent my life working hard to create impact for businesses and society,” said Ms. Tandon. “But I know I would not be where I am today without the teachers and supporters I’ve had – especially my grandfather. My love for music has been an important outlet for me in finding myself, and for that, I am forever grateful. I hope I can help to advocate for our young Horatio Alger Scholars as they fight for their professional and personal passions, just as I did.”

Through its Members, Horatio Alger Association aims to educate young people about the limitless opportunities afforded to them by the free-enterprise system. To further this mission, the organization awards scholarships to outstanding high school students who are committed to pursuing higher education and giving back to their communities. Like Association Members, Horatio Alger Scholars have faced significant adversities, but have also displayed unmatched resilience in overcoming their challenges. Since the scholarship program was established in 1984, Horatio Alger Association has provided more than $159 million to students in need, all of which has been funded solely through the generosity of Association Members and friends.

“Ms. Tandon defines tenacity and boldness – characteristics that many of our Scholars also embody,” said Terrence J. Giroux, executive director, Horatio Alger Association. “Her business acumen, dedication to service and passion for education will serve our Association well. I’m certain she will be a tremendous role model for the young men and women we support.”

Ms. Tandon and the Member Class of 2019 will be formally inducted into the Association on April 4-6, 2019, during the Association’s 72^nd Horatio Alger Award Induction Ceremonies in Washington, D.C. The annual three-day event honors the achievements of both Members and National Scholars, affording both groups the opportunity to meet and interact as well as exchange stories of hardships and triumphs.

For more information about Horatio Alger Association and its Member Class of 2019, please visitwww.horatioalger.org

James Koodal to lead Houston Chapter of IAPC

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Social Media 0

A new leadership team for IAPC Houston Chapter was elected in the meeting last week presided over by Indo American Press Club founder Chairman Ginsmon Zacharia; held at Stanford, Houston, TX.

James Koodal was elected Chapter President, while Suresh Ramakrishnan is the new Vice-President, Andrew Jacob is the General Secretary, Reny Kavalayil is the Joint Secretary, and, Simon Valacherry is the Treasurer for the calendar year 2019.

Easo Jacob will serve as the Chapter Advisory Board Chair and Dr. Chandra Mittal, Joseph Ponnoli, Joji Joseph, and C. G. Daniel are others elected as Chapter Advisoy Board Members.

James Koodal is one of the prominent socio-cultural media fraternity entrepreneurs based in Houston, TX. For over 35 years, he has contributed generously to the diaspora. He being the producer of ‘Vision Arabia’ broadcasted on Jaihind channel in Bahrain, Koodal is a noted creative contributor on multiple media platforms. It’s noteworthy that Koodal, is the American Region President of The World Malayali Council as well. He is the Managing Director of the Houston based M.S.J. Business Group.

Elected Vice President Suresh Ramakrishnan is the Managing Director of Houston based leading publication ‘Nerkaazhcha’. He has served as the Greater Houston Malayali Association in the capacity of General Secretary.

Andrew Jacob, the General Secretary, is the serving Cultural committee Chairman of the World Malayali Council and he is a Board Member at The Houston Malayali Association.

Joint Secretary Reny Kavalayil, is a noted media professional of Indian diaspora and socially he serves on the board of the Houston Malayali Association. Simon Valachery, the elected chapter Treasurer is the Managing Editor of the publication ‘Nerkaazhcha’ as well he is a recognized promising leader of the diaspora.

The new leadership was complimented and congratulated by the IAPC National Secretary Jacob Kudassanad, noted media associates Sangeeta Dua, Roy Thomas, Babu Chacko, Saji Dominic together with the Houston Chapter members.

IAPC was formed with the lofty goal of realizing a long-felt need to bring together the media groups and the Indian American media persons across the United States under one umbrella to work together and support one another, and thus giving them a powerful voice in the media world and the larger society. IAPC members are dedicated to fulfill the vision of enhancing their own journalistic skills while striving to help fellow journalists and future generations to work towards the common cause of enhancing the well being and efficiency of all peoples of the world.For more information, please visit: https://www.indoamericanpressclub.com/

GOPIO-CT ELECTS OFFICIALS FOR THE YEAR 2019, RAISE FUINDS FOR AMERICAN CHARITY TEACH FOR AMERICA

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

GOPIO CT elected new Executive Committee Members for the term 2019; President – Anita Bhat, Executive Vice President – Santosh Gannu, Vice President – Bhavna Juneja, Secretary – Prasad Chintalapudi, Joint Secretary – Gayatri Mahesh, Immediate Past President – Shelly Nichani, Trustees: Srinivas Akarapu and Shailesh Naik. The Annual General Body Meeting was held on Friday, December 14^th at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Stamford.

All were elected unanimously. The nominations and elections were conducted by a committee headed by Dr. Thomas Abraham along with Varghese Ninan and Meera Banta. Dr. Thomas Abraham, Neelam Narang, Sanjay Santhanam and Varghese Ninan will continue as Trustees.

At the General Body meeting, President Anita Bhat gave report of the activities in 2018. Bhat said that the chapter’s signature event was its Annual Awards Banquet at which those Indian Americans from Connecticut who have achieved in various fields were recognized. GOPIO-CT gave scholarship to three graduating high school students and one student joining Norwalk community College. GOPIO-CT sponsored five soup kitchens at the New Covenant House in Stamford where GOPIO-CT volunteers also cooked and served the food. GOPIO-CT also participated in the cancer walk to raise funds for Stamford Hospital’s Bennet Cancer Center. A series of Meet and Greet sessions with First Selectmen of the following towns were held in 2018, in Westport, New Canaan, Trumbull, Greenwich and Darien at which members of Indian American community could interact with the First Selectmen.

Following the election, GOPIO-CT had its Annual Holiday Party which also served as fundraiser for Teach For America, whose Executive Director from New Haven Nate Snow spoke at the event on the organization’s mission to “enlist, develop, and mobilize as many as possible of our nation’s most promising future leaders to grow and strengthen the movement for educational equity and excellence.” Snow called upon Indian-American community to participate in Teach For America programs.

Two of Connecticut’s newly elected assemblymen Raghib Allie-Brennan and Matt Blumenthal were honored guests who committed to closely work with community groups such GOPIO-CT for the welfare Connecticut’s residents as well as the society at large.

20 years of Dalit Human Rights

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights (NCDHR) is celebrating their 20 years of championing Dalit rights in India. Prior to 1998, Dalit rights was considered a social evil and discriminatory practices, while not given due recognition from the human rights perspective. NCDHR emerged as a platform which initiated a Pan India perspective of Dalit rights during its initiation of recognition within the Human Rights paradigm. In 1998, 25 lakh signatures were collected from the community including community leaders and academia, demanding effective implementation of constitutional safeguards for the protection and promotion of the Dalit Rights and total elimination of untouchability.

“Over the past 20 years, NCDHR has emerged as a formidable resistance movement, defending the rights of our community. It is an incredible moment in history for our partners and associates to reflect on the journey thus far and innovate new strategies to combat the divisive and casteist forces” said Mr. Paul Divakar, co-founder of NCDHR.

In 2001, when there was not sufficient response and effort by the government, the issue was raised in the global level at World Conference Against Racism in Durban, South Africa. Over 200 delegates from different streams of life, including Dalit Rights activist, Human Rights activist, parliamentarians, academia, artists, solidarity groups among others participated in the conference to highlight the issue of Dalits. The three main outcomes of the conference were guiding the countries to report on the specific themes of African American Issue, Palestine Issue and Dalit Issue in South Asia.

During the last 20 years, NCDHR has worked towards deepening the structures of Dalit Rights. NCDHR was involved in training over 2000 Dalit Human Rights Defenders in the usage of SC/ST (PoA) Act 1989, building capacities of Dalit organizations and advocates; sensitizing the Judges through National Judicial Academy.

Prof. Vimal Thorat, co-founder of NCDHR unanimously reiterate the relevance and importance of locating the leadership, articulations, and demands of Dalit women within the larger anti-caste movement. “We feel NCDHR placed this in context several years ago by launching AIDMAM to ensure Dalit women remain in the center of all the interventions ”

NCDHR has prioritized the importance of Gender rights through All India Dalit Mahila Adhikar Manch [AIDMAM] and Economic rights through Dalit Arthik Adhikar Andolan [DAAA] including land rights with Civil and Political rights through National Dalit Movement for Justice [NDMJ] for ensuring overall approach for rights and entitlements. In 2004, NCDHR has initiated National Dalit Watch [NDW] for mapping the inclusion of Dalits in disaster risk reduction.

NCDHR facilitated the state partners to come together and advocate for the amendment in the SC/ST (PoA) Act, which was finally adopted in 2015. With its partners in 22 states, NCDHR has worked towards better implementation of the SCC/STC for rights and development of the SC/ST communities. As a result of our interventions, the government to release Rs. 4596.08 crores for scholarships for Dalit students in higher education.

Both Mr. Henri Tiphagne and Mr. Martin Macwan, co-founders of NCDHR felt that in the current challenges political climate, NCDHR has played a crucial role in protecting the rights of Dalit Human Rights Defenders. “ In celebrating the 20 years of its existence, NCDHR must innovate and build on the experiences towards enabling strategic actions”, they said.

Dalit Rights has seldom got any support or recognition from the wider society at large in the country, where over 201 million people are discriminated on the basis of their caste, even today.

NCDHR stands relevant in today’s environment as there is an absence of anti-discriminatory law, which has resulted in constant targeting of violence and discrimination against Dalits. In education, Dalits children face discrimination from teachers and other children as well as lack of access and availability of scholarships and hostels. In employment, where jobs are been outsourced to the private sector, there is a significant gap in availing jobs for these communities. In housing, Dalits are still segregated not only in villages but even in cities. Violence against Dalit women are steadily on the increase, with over 25 thousand cases were registered in 2016-17 alone, while over 40 thousand cases were registered under SC/ST (PoA) Act. In Budgets, there is a gap of INR 86796 crores in 2018-2019, for ensuring the development of the communities.

Ms. Asha Kowtal, General Secretary of AIDMAM and Dr. Rameshnathan V. A., General Secretary of NDMJ added their views on current relevance of NCDHR on Dalit Rights. “NCDHR has evolved in addressing the contemporary issues of young Dalit women leadership, discrimination in primary and higher education and other issues as we go along!”

Internationally, the caste issue comes under the terminology of Discrimination based on Work and Descent (DWD). In India and South Asia, Dalits are considered as the major groups under DWD, but globally there are many groups in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe; who face similar forms of exclusion and structural discrimination. NCDHR with its global interventions is trying to bring these communities together towards addressing the issue of DWD globally.

Americans unhappy with family, social or financial life are more likely to say they feel lonely

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

One-in-ten Americans say they feel lonely or isolated from those around them all or most of the time, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted earlier this year. While this is a small share of U.S. adults overall, the share rises significantly for some groups, including those who feel weak ties to the communities they live in and those who are financially stressed.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, frequent loneliness is linked to dissatisfaction with one’s family, social and community life, the survey found. About three-in-ten (28%) of those dissatisfied with their family life feel lonely all or most of the time, compared with just 7% of those satisfied with their family life. Satisfaction with one’s social life follows a similar pattern: 26% of those dissatisfied with their social life are frequently lonely, compared with just 5% of those who are satisfied with their social life. It’s unclear whether dissatisfaction with particular areas of life leads to feelings of loneliness or vice versa – or whether something else entirely is driving reported feelings of loneliness and isolation.

One-in-five Americans who say they are not satisfied with the quality of life in their local community feel frequent loneliness, roughly triple the 7% of Americans who are satisfied with the quality of life in their community.

Frequent loneliness is also associated with lower community attachment and knowing fewer neighbors. Those who feel not too or not at all attached to their local community (16%) are more likely than those who are somewhat or very attached (6%) to say they feel lonely or isolated frequently. And one-in-five Americans who say they don’t know any of their neighbors report feeling lonely or isolated all or most of the time. This is double the share among those who know only some of their neighbors (10%). Just 6% of those who know most or all of their neighbors say they feel frequent loneliness or isolation.

Those who show interest in leaving their current community also report higher levels of loneliness. Respondents were asked whether, if they could, they would want to move to a different community. Those who would want to move (17%) are more likely than those who wouldn’t (6%) or weren’t sure (8%) to say they feel lonely all or most of the time.

Personal finances also relate to feelings of loneliness. People who say they are somewhat or very dissatisfied with their personal financial situation are significantly more likely to express feeling frequent loneliness than those who are satisfied with their finances (17% vs. 5%). Similarly, 14% of those who say they don’t have enough income to lead the kind of life they want report feeling lonely or isolated frequently, compared with just 5% of those with enough income to lead their ideal life.

A similar pattern emerges when looking at annual income: 16% of those with an annual family income less than $30,000 say they feel lonely all or most of the time, compared with 9% of middle-income adults and 6% of higher-income adults.

While loneliness is more common among some groups than others, the share of people who feel this way is fairly consistent across most major demographic groups. Roughly one-in-ten Americans say they feel lonely all or most of the time across gender, racial and ethnic, and age groups. There are few differences by community type or party affiliation. In addition, even parental status and the number of years spent living in a community aren’t strongly correlated with feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Marital status is, however. Those who are divorced or have never been married (17% each) are more than twice as likely to feel frequent loneliness than those who are married (6%).

AAPI’s 37th annual Convention will be held in Atlanta

December 19, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity 0

(Atlanta, GA. December 16^th, 2018) “The 37^th Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) will be held at the fabulous Omni Atlanta at CNN Center and Georgia World Congress Centre (GWCC) in Atlanta from July 3 to 7, 2019,” Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI, announced here at a kick off meeting.

Attended by the members of convention leadership and various Committee Teams for the convention, the event on Sunday, December 2^nd, 2018 at the Georgia World Congress Centre, showed the enthusiasm and commitment of the AAPI leadership and the local organizing committee headed by Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Vice Chair of AAPI BOT and Convention Chair.

Other prominent leaders who had attended the kick off meeting included, Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice President, AAPI; Dr. Syamala Erramilli, President of GAPI; Dr. Asha Parikh, Chair of GAPI BOT; Convention Co-chairs: Dr. Raghu Lolabattu, Dr. Piyush Patel, Dr. Subodh Agrawal and several Convention Team members.

“Exhibitors and Corporate Partners will remain their priority as they work together to provide a world class forum for increased interactions between physicians, sponsors, exhibitors,” said Dr. Sreeni Gangasani. “The annual convention this year is being organized by AAPI’s Georgia Chapter. A pool of dedicated AAPI leaders are working hard to make the Convention a unique event for all the participants.”

Dr. Asha Parikh said, “The 2019 AAPI Annual Convention & Scientific Assembly offers an exciting venue to interact with leading physicians, health professionals, academicians, and scientists of Indian origin. Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country will convene and participate in the scholarly exchange of medical advances, to encourage legislative priorities and to develop health policy agendas in the coming year.”

Many of the physicians who will attend this convention have excelled in different specialties and subspecialties and occupy high positions as faculty members of medical schools, heads of departments, and executives of hospital staff.

“The AAPI Convention provides an opportunity for delegates to meet directly with these physicians who are leaders in their fields and play an integral part in the decision-making process regarding new products and services,” said Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda. In addition to consumers of medical and pharmaceutical products, devices and equipment, practice-related services, financial services, office supplies, etc., can also meet senior members of management who influence such health care facilities. The 37^th AAPI Atlanta Convention is where you can reach your target audience of several thousand under one roof. Register now and aggrandize your marketing plans.

According to Dr. Syamala Erramilli, the AAPI convention will offer over 12 hours of CME credits. Scientific presentations, exhibits, and product theatre presentations will highlight the newest advances inpatient care, medical technology, and practice management issues across multiple medical specialties. In a paradigm shift, the convention will explore a Symposium and/or Workshop format that will focus on current issues in the clinical management of chronic disease conditions to include evidence-based guidelines, latest therapies, and hot topics. They will also include 1-2 sessions that will count for Ethics CME that can fulfil mandatory medical license renewal requirements in most states.

This convention has been always one of the much awaited events of the year, there will be an Educational session with CME by world renowned faculty, full entertainment by Bollywood celebrates, many religious/cultural Activates and many more.

AAPI convention offers customized and exclusive sponsorship packages to meet the needs of sponsors and supporters. There are many Exciting A-Z Registration Packages like Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond Ranging from $50,000 – $250,000.

Exhibiting with AAPI gives an opportunity to access nearly 2,000 health professionals who are leaders and decision-makers regarding new products and services, Access to national and international health policy advisors. The physicians attending this convention have excelled in different specialties and sub-specialties and occupy high positions as faculty members of medical schools, heads of departments, and executives of hospital staff.

AAPI represents the interests of 80,000 physicians including 20,000 medical students, residents, and fellows. Over 2,500 attendees along with guests are expected to gather at the 37th Annual AAPI Convention in Atlanta, GA. The Team has discussed all the exciting news, updates, action plans for the upcoming event, assigned and confirmed the roles and responsibilities of members in the team. Early Bird Specials for AAPI members to save on the cost for registering early on to attend the convention will be announced shortly.

AAPI was founded in 1982 by a group of concerned Indian American medical professionals with a simple goal, to deal with the challenges around immigration and licensing issues facing by foreign medical graduates and to design a level field for them. It is the largest non-profit ethnic medical organization in the United States, one out of seven patient encounters in America is with an Indian American physician, AAPI serves as an umbrella organization with a network of over 160 component chapters including alumni, regional ,state, and specialty organizations.

“Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country and internationally will convene and participate in the scholarly exchange of medical advances, to develop health policy agendas, and to encourage legislative priorities in the coming year. We look forward to seeing you all in Atlanta, Georgia!” said Dr. Naresh Parikh. For more details, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit: www.aapiconvention.org and www.aapiusa.org

Was Jesus a Buddhist Monk, who lived in India & Tibet?

December 19, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

The life story of the most famous person who has ever lived is, in fact, filled with a mysterious gaping hole. Bible speaks about the disappearance and finding of Jesus at The Jerusalem Temple at age 12, and reconnects us with him at age 30 when he began his ministry with the Baptism by John the Baptist. From the age of 13 to 29 there is no Biblical, Western, or Middle Eastern record of Jesus‘s whereabouts or activities in Palestine.

There is talk of the missing years of Jesus, unmentioned in the gospels, when he was between the ages of 12 and 30. Some say he was in India, picking up Buddhist ideas. These aren’t notions that have entirely died out. Known as “The Lost Years,” this gaping hole remained a mystery until one explorer’s remarkable discovery in 1887.

In the late 19th century a Russian doctor named Nicolas Notovitch traveled extensively throughout India, Tibet, and Afghanistan. He chronicled his experiences and discoveries in his 1894 book The Unknown Life of Christ. At one point during his voyage, Notovitch broke his leg in 1887 and recuperated at the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of Hemis in the city of Leh, at the very top of India. It was here where monks showed Notovitch two large yellowed volumes of a document written in Tibetan, entitled The Life of Saint Issa.

During his time at the monastery, Notovitch translated the document which tells the true story of a child named Jesus (i.e. Issa = “son of God”) born in the first century to a poor family in Israel. Jesus was referred to as “the son of God” by the Vedic scholars who tutored him in the sacred Buddhist texts from the age of 13 to 29. Notovitch translated 200 of the 224 verses from the document.

During his time at the monastery in 1887, one lama explained to Notovitch the full scope and extreme level of enlightenment that Jesus had reached. “Issa [Jesus] is a great prophet, one of the first after the twenty-two Buddhas,” the lama tells Notovitch. “He is greater than any one of all the Dalai Lamas, for he constitutes part of the spirituality of our Lord. It is he who has enlightened you, who has brought back within the pale of religion the souls of the frivolous, and who has allowed each human being to distinguish between good and evil. His name and his acts are recorded in our sacred writings. And in reading of his wondrous existence, passed in the midst of an erring and wayward people, we weep at the horrible sin of the pagans who, after having tortured him, put him to death.”

The discovery of Jesus’s time in India lines up perfectly with The Lost Years of Jesus, as well as with the degree of significance of his birth in the Middle East. When a great Buddhist, or Holy Man (i.e. Lama), dies, wise men consult the stars and other omens and set off — often on extraordinarily long journeys — to find the infant who is the reincarnation of the Lama. When the child is old enough he is taken away from his parents and educated in the Buddhist faith. Experts speculate that this is the foundational origin of the story of the Three Wise Men, and it is now believed Jesus was taken to India at 13 and taught as a Buddhist. At the time, Buddhism was already a 500-year-old religion and Christianity, of course, had not even begun.

“Jesus is said to have visited our land and Kashmir to study Buddhism. He was inspired by the laws and wisdom of Buddha,” a senior lama of the Hemis monastery told the IANS news agency. The head of the Drukpa Buddhist sect, Gwalyang Drukpa, who heads the Hemis monastery, is reported to have confirmed this narrative.

The 224 verses have since been documented by others, including Russian philosopher and scientist, Nicholas Roerich, who in 1952 recorded accounts of Jesus’s time at the monastery. “Jesus passed his time in several ancient cities of India such as Benares or Varanasi. Everyone loved him because Issa dwelt in peace with the Vaishyas and Shudras whom he instructed and helped,” writes Roerich.

Jesus spent some time teaching in the ancient holy cities of Jagannath (Puri), Benares (in Uttar Pradesh), and Rajagriha (in Bihar), which provoked the Brahmins to excommunicate him which forced him to flee to the Himalayas where he spent another six years studying Buddhism.

German scholar, Holger Kersten, also writes of the early years of Jesus in India in the book Jesus Lived In India. “The lad arrives in a region of the Sindh (along the river Indus) in the company of merchants,” writes Kersten. “He settled among the Aryans with the intention of perfecting himself and learning from the laws of the great Buddha. He travelled extensively through the land of the five rivers (Punjab), stayed briefly with the Jains before proceeding to Jagannath.”

And in the BBC documentary, Jesus Was A Buddhist Monk, experts theorize that Jesus escaped his crucifixion, and in his mid-late 30s he returned to the land he loved so much. He not only escaped death, but he also visited with the Jewish settlers in Afghanistan who had escaped similar tyranny of the Jewish emperor Nebuchadnezzar. Locals confirm that Jesus spent the next several years in the Kashmir Valley where he lived happily until his death at 80-years-old. With sixteen years of his youth spent in the region, as well as approximately his last 45, that means Jesus spent a total of roughy 61 to 65 years of his life in India, Tibet, and the neighboring area. Locals believe he is buried at the RozaBal shrine at Srinagar in India-controlled Kashmir.

Sam Miller, a BBC writer, who travelled to Srinagar, reports of having identified this tomb, reported and believed by some to be that of Jesus. Jesus is reputed to be buried in this run-down Rozabul shrine in the Kashmir capital. “The shrine, on a street corner, is a modest stone building with a traditional Kashmiri multi-tiered sloping roof,” Miller writes. “A watchman led me in and encouraged me to inspect the smaller wooden chamber within, with its trellis-like, perforated screen. Through the gaps I could see a gravestone covered with a green cloth.”

Miller writes, according to an eclectic combination of New Age Christians, unorthodox Muslims and fans of the Da Vinci Code, the grave contains the mortal remains of a candidate for the most important visitor of all time to India. Officially, the tomb is the burial site of Youza Asaph, a medieval Muslim preacher – but a growing number of people believe that it is in fact the tomb of Jesus of Nazareth. They believe that Jesus survived the crucifixion almost 2,000 Easters ago, and went to live out his days in Kashmir.

As per local beliefs, Jesus was among the religious leaders who attended a famous Buddhist meeting here in AD80. “The stories of Jesus in India are not just aimed at gullible tourists – they date back to the 19th Century,” Miller writes.

They were part of attempts to explain the striking similarities between Christianity and Buddhism, a matter of great concern to 19th Century scholars – and also a desire among some Christians to root the story of Jesus in Indian soil.

The US-based Christian sect, known as the Church Universal and Triumphant, is the best-known modern supporter of the belief that Jesus lived in Kashmir, though they don’t believe he died there.

Many years of research by theologian, Holger Kersten, in his book, “Jesus Lived in India: His Unknown Life Before and After the Crucifixion” presents irrefutable evidence that Jesus did indeed live in India, dying there in old age. Kersten’s book takes the reader to all the historical sites connected with Jesus in Israel, the Middle East, Afghanistan and India. Kersten concludes: In his youth Jesus followed the ancient Silk Road to India. While there he studied Buddhism, adopting its tenets and becoming a spiritual master. Jesus survived the crucifixion. After the resurrection Jesus returned to India to die in old age. Jesus was buried in Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, where he continues to be revered as a saintly man. The tomb of Jesus still exists in Kashmir.

And in Islam, in which Jesus is the penultimate prophet, there is also a minority tradition adopted by the controversial Ahmadiyya sect, that Rozabal does contain the grave of Jesus.

Professional historians tend to laugh out loud when you mention the notion that Jesus might have lived in Kashmir – but his tomb is now firmly on the tourist trail – and a growing number of credulous visitors believe that he was buried in the Rozabal shrine.

AAPI-QLI Celebrates 23 Years of Excellence 5 Distinguished Physicians Honored During Annual Convention

December 13, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity 0

Long Island, NY: December 14th, 2018: Nearly 500 people from across the country came together to celebrate the contributions, achievements and growth of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of QUEENS and LONG ISLAND (AAPI-QLI) during the 23rd annual convention here at the Hilton Huntington, Long Island, NY on Saturday, December 8^th, 2018. Entertainment, CME lectures, Exhibition, Business Forums, Networking, Recognition of five distinguished physicians for their achievements and contributions, Gala and Dinner were only some of those made the convention historic on this colorful and eventful day.

In his presidential address, Jagdish K. Gupta, M, President of AAPI-QLI, describing the convention as a historic event gave an overview of how the organization, and its trajectory of growth over the past 23 years and how it has become today to be one of the most powerful ethnic Physician organizations in the country. “AAPIQLI is fortunate to have a strong foundation made by its founding members. AAPI-QLI was started in June 1995 to represent the interests of all physicians of Indian origin in Queens and Long Island area and now has grown to become the largest ethnic physician organization of approximately 800 members, one of the largest chapters in National AAPI.”

Enumerating some of the programs under his able leadership AAPI-QLI initiated, Dr. Gupta said, AAPI-QLI has been providing a forum for monthly meetings for Continuing Medical Educations on Sunday, monthly sessions with discussions on current trends and changes on a range of topics in healthcare, wealth management, and practice management issues on Wednesday. “AAPI-QLI is also engaged in charitable activities for the benefit of our community at large in the form of donations to ROTACARE, INN- Soup Kitchen, Shankar Nethralaya, CRY foundation and many others. The organization also conducts many Health Camps at our religious institutions, providing free flu vaccine, eye care, dental care and preventive medical care including anti-obesity campaigns in the

elementary schools and for Veterans of our nation.” AAPI-QLI also participates with other organizations, like IALI and AIA in sponsoring Health Fairs during India Fest and Deepavali Celebrations at South Street Seaport, Dr. Gupta said.

In his address, Dr. Ajay Lodha, Chairman of BOT-AAPI-QLI, and past national President of AAPI, said, “Under the leadership of Dr. Gupta, r AAPI-QLI has raised the bar higher than ever. We have been able to expand our reach to all parts of the state and improve the educational and charitable experience of our members. We want to create a strong relationship with various organizations within our community that reflect our vision and mission. AAPI-QLI will discover her own potential to be a player in shaping the health of each patient with a focus on health maintenance than disease intervention.”

Dr. Lodha described AAPIQLI as the most vibrant and powerful subchapter of national AAPI which represents more than 100,000 physicians and more than 20,000 residents and fellows of Indian subcontinent. “My friends, you do not know your own power. When AAPI speaks, people in Washington listen. AAPI has been in the forefront in shaping legislation in a number of complex challenges confronting the medical/healthcare system,” he said. He thanked and praised the hard work an

The Distinguished honorees of the Gala this year included: Dr. Alan Guerci, President & CEO, Catholic Health services, Long Island; and, Dr. Jason Naidich, Senior VP & Regional Executive Director of Northern Region at Northwell Health and Chairman of Radiology at Zucker School of Medicine.

AAPI-QLI honored there of its own members for their dedicated services and contributions as awell as their achievements in the field of Medicine and Health. Dr. Satish Anand was honored with Lifetime Distinguished Services to AAPI-QLI Award. Dr. Manjeet Chadha received the Distinguished Physician Innovation in Research Award; and, Dr. Gaddam Reddy was honored with Distinguished Physician Clinical Services Award.

In his address, Congressman Thomas Suozzi, chief guest at the event, praised the contributions of Indian Americans to the larger American society. “In this room, you represent the future of New York and the USA. I see an immense pool of talents among you. We are very lucky to have you. You do so much for the nation,” he said. Describing India’s relationship with the United States to be “the most important in the next 50 years” for both the democracies, Suozzi said, “India shares the same democratic values like the United States.”

“We take pride in our diversity,” Nassau County Executive, Steven Bellone, in his felicitation address, said. “Indian American Physicians have earned the admiration and respect of those in their community, working diligently to provide vital programs and services that contribute to the quality of life in Queens, Nassau and Suffolk Counties in New York.”

Dr. Viny Jayam, Convention Chair, welcomed the audience to the gala and thanked the tireless efforts of the committee members for their hard work and dedication. Dr. Rakesh Dua, Immediate Past President of AAPI, congratulated the team under the leadership of DR. Gupta for their dedication and leadership. The event came to a close with a live musical performance by leading Bollywood stars, and a grand dinner.

AAPIQLI represents more than 2,000 Physicians residing in Queens, Nassau and Suffolk serving the community of New York and its Counties. These practicing physicians are dedicated to provide highest quality of care to their patients and are also serving in most prominent positons at their medical institutions, including Administrative, Program Directors, Heads of Department, and Teaching. These leaders are making decisions about medical and Pharmaceutical Products, devices and equipment and practice related services at multiple levels in hospitals, medical school, outpatient centers, and health care facilities. For information, please visit: http://aapiqli.org/about-aapiqli/

AAPI to launch a 9-City Jai Ho Musical Dhamaka by Bollywood singer Sukhwinder Singh in May 2019

December 13, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

After mesmerizing musical lovers all across the world with his enchanting voice, Sukhwinder Singh, the top Bollywood singer is now on AAPI’s Nine-City Jai Ho Musical Dhamaka next Spring, performing in thirteen cities around the United States. Organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian origin (AAPI), the spectacular musical program combined with educational and networking opportunities for AAPI members, supporters and sponsors, is being organized with the objective of bringing CME and non-CME sponsored medical lectures, exhibits, Gala Dinner, community outreach talks and lively musical nite in each of the 9 cities across the country.

“The concept of this program to bring together various local Chapters closer has been in my mind for several months. National coordinators of the program, Drs. Narendra Kumar. Hemant Dhingra, Raj Bhayani. Amit Chkrabarty, Anjana Samadder, and Gautam Samaddar, as well as the entire AAPI team and leadership enthusiastically received this idea and the net result of our collaboration and dialogue is the 9-city grand mega concert.” Dr. Dhingra, who has close relationship with the Entertainment Industry, worked with Neha and her team to present an evening of cultural entertainment in each of these thirteen cities.

Senior leadership and several past Presidents and leaders of AAPI have extended their whole-hearted support in organizing this mega event across the nation, Dr. Parikh says. “I am sincerely grateful to Dr. Narendra Kumar, Dr. Vinod Shah, Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Dr. Ajay Lodha, Dr. Jayesh Shah, and Dr. Vinod Koli, all past Presidents of AAPI, for their senior advisory role in making this meg event a grand success.”

The Cities where the mega shows planned to be held include: Atlanta, San Francisco; Los Angeles; New Jersey, Columbus, OH, Pittsburgh, Chicago, Boston, Washington, DC, Orlando, Charlotte, Dallas, and Houston.

Sukhwinder Singh, an internationally recognized Bollywood playback artist, best known for singing “Chaiyya Chaiyya,” for which he won the Best Male Playback Award at the 1999 Filmfare Awards, in association with composer A.R. Rahman has resulted in numerous hit songs. The list includes Chaiyya Chaiyya from Dil Se, Ramta Jogi, Ni Main Samajh Gayee, Taal Se Taal Mila and Nahin Samne from Taal, Ruth Aa Gayee Re, Raat Ki Daldal Hain and Yeh Jo Zindagi Hain from Earth, Jaane Tu Mera Kya Hai from Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na, Aayo Re Sakhi, Bhangari Morori and Piya Ho from Water, Chinnamma Chilakkamma from Meenaxi, Thok De Killi from Raavan and the most popular Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire.

Dr. Hemant Dhingra, Entertainment Chair of AAPI provided a detailed description of the planned 9-City Tour by popular Bollywood star, Sukhvinder, which is a way to raise funds for AAPI and its many local Chapters. The event will have its finale with Sonu Nigam joining the 60 member live artists in Atlanta, GA.

“Entertainment was only just one component of the entire program,” Dr. Parikh adds. The idea is to put together mini seminars, networking and strengthening the relationship between members and the national office. “Due to popular demand from several physicians on the need for enhancing scientific component at AAPI meetings and allowing greater number of members to participate, AAPI is now organizing the 13-city programs to make it easy for physicians to participate locally avoiding extensive travel and time away from practice,” he explains.

“Many of our industry partners liked this concept where they could get prime time with a few hundred doctors for product promotion/theater, non CME lectures, exhibits, booths,” Dr. Raj Bhayani, national coordinator of the event, says. “These multi-city mini-seminars are a novel concept for education and recreation that will raise funds for the local chapters of AAPI, the national AAPI and the AAPI Charitable Foundation.”

The Seminars and workshops will be led by accomplished faculty of leading Cardiologists, Cardiovascular Surgeons and Psychiatrists. Each of the nine medical educational programs is expected to have an audience of 250-400 Physicians, which will be followed by annual gala event and entertainment with an expected 2,500+ audience at each location.

Where Americans Find Meaning in Life

December 13, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

What makes life meaningful? Answering such a big question might be challenging for many people. Even among researchers, there is little consensus about the best way to measure what brings human beings satisfaction and fulfillment. Traditional survey questions – with a pre-specified set of response options – may not capture important sources of meaning.

To tackle this topic, Pew Research Center conducted two separate surveys in late 2017. The first included an open-ended question asking Americans to describe in their own words what makes their lives feel meaningful, fulfilling or satisfying. This approach gives respondents an opportunity to describe the myriad things they find meaningful, from careers, faith and family, to hobbies, pets, travel, music and being outdoors.

The second survey included a set of closed-ended (also known as forced-choice) questions asking Americans to rate how much meaning and fulfillment they draw from each of 15 possible sources identified by the research team. It also included a question asking which of these sources gives respondents the most meaning and fulfillment. This approach offers a limited series of options but provides a measure of the relative importance Americans place on various sources of meaning in their lives.

Across both surveys, the most popular answer is clear and consistent: Americans are most likely to mention family when asked what makes life meaningful in the open-ended question, and they are most likely to report that they find “a great deal” of meaning in spending time with family in the closed-ended question.

But after family, Americans mention a plethora of sources (in the open-ended question) from which they derive meaning and satisfaction: One-third bring up their career or job, nearly a quarter mention finances or money, and one-in-five cite their religious faith, friendships, or various hobbies and activities. Additional topics that are commonly mentioned include being in good health, living in a nice place, creative activities and learning or education. Many other topics also arose in the open-ended question, such as doing good and belonging to a group or community, but these were not as common.

In the closed-ended question, the most commonly cited sources that provide Americans with “a great deal” of meaning and fulfillment (after family) include being outdoors, spending time with friends, caring for pets and listening to music. By this measure, religious faith ranks lower, on par with reading and careers. But among those who do find a great deal of meaning in their religious faith, more than half say it is the single most important source of meaning in their lives. Overall, 20% of Americans say religion is the most meaningful aspect of their lives, second only to the share who say this about family (40%).

Seven-in-ten Americans mention their family as a source of meaning and fulfillment, and a similar share say in the closed-ended question that family provides “a great deal” of meaning in their lives. While substantial shares in all major subgroups of Americans mention family, people who are married are more likely than are those who are not married to cite family as a key source of meaning.

A quarter of Americans who earn at least $75,000 a year mention their friends when asked to describe, in their own words, what makes life meaningful, compared with 14% of Americans who earn less than $30,000 each year. Similarly, 23% of higher-income U.S. adults mention being in good health, compared with 10% of lower-income Americans. And among those with a college degree, 11% mention travel and a sense of security as things that make their lives fulfilling, compared with 3% and 2%, respectively, who name these sources of meaning among those with a high school degree or less.

Spirituality and religious faith are particularly meaningful for evangelical Protestants, 43% of whom mention religion-related topics in the open-ended question. Among members of the historically black Protestant tradition, 32% mention faith and spirituality, as do 18% of mainline Protestants and 16% of Catholics. Politically conservative Americans are more likely than liberals to find meaning in religion, while liberals find more meaning in creativity and causes than do conservatives. Spirituality and faith are commonly mentioned by very conservative Americans as imbuing their lives with meaning and fulfillment.

Hindus are fourth-largest population in US

December 13, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion, Travel 0

Fueled by immigration, America’s Hindu population has reached 2.23 million, an increase of about one million or 85.8 percent since 2007, making Hinduism the fourth-largest faith, according to estimates based on wide-ranging study of religions in the nation.

The proportion of Hindus in the US population rose from 0.4 percent in 2007 to 0.7 percent last year, according to the Pew Research Center’s “Religious Landscape Study” published on Tuesday last week.

The study only gave the percentage shares of Hindus in the population, rather than numbers, but calculations by media outlets using the population proportions in the report and census projections showed that the number of Hindus rose from 1.2 million in 2007 out of a total US population of 301.2 million that year to 2.23 million in 2014 in a population of 318.88 million. This amounts to an increase of 1.03 million or 85.8 percent in the Hindu population during the seven-year period.

Pew said that it may have underestimated the size of the Hindu population. An earlier report from Pew on the future of world religions in April said that by 2050, Hindus would make up 1.2 percent of the US population and number 4.78 million. This would make the US Hindu population the fifth largest in the world.

Looking at the socio-economic profile of Hindus, the new Pew report said they had the highest education and income levels of all religious groups in the US: 36 percent of the Hindus said their annual family income exceeded $100,000, compared with 19 percent of the overall population. And 77 percent of Hindus have a bachelor’s degree compared to 27 percent of all adults and 48 percent of the Hindus have a post-graduate degree.

The Christian population in the US fell by 7.8 percent during the seven-year period, from 78.4 percent in 2007 to 70.6 percent last year, the Pew study said. That works out to about 11 million fewer Christians. However, “Christians remain by far the largest religious group in the United States, but the Christian share of the population has declined markedly,” the report said.

Underlying the change, there was a marked increase in the number of people who say they have “no particular religion,” the study reported. About 23 percent of American adults fell into this category, up seven percent from the 16 percent in 2007. Included in this broad category are atheists who make up 3.1 percent of the total US population and agnostics, four percent.

Compared to Christianity, the others are miniscule despite the increases. The second largest religion is Judaism, which accounts for 1.9 percent of the population, with an increase of 0.2 percent, the study found. It is followed by Islam with a 0.9 percent share of the population, up by 0.5 percent. Buddhism ties for the fourth place with Hinduism at 0.7 percent.

The US census does not ask questions about religion. The Pew Research Center, an independent Washington-based organization, surveyed more than 35,000 people across the US to fill this gap and arrive at the statistics.

The rising trend of Hinduism in the US contrasts with that in India. The Pew report released in April said that the share of Hindus in the Indian population was expected to decline by 2.8 percent, from 79.5 percent in 2010 to 76.7 percent in 2050 even though their numbers were projected to grow to almost 1.3 billion by that year in a total Indian population of nearly 1.7 billion.

Only 10 percent of the Hindus are converts, with Catholics and unaffiliated each accounting for 3 percent. Hindus are least likely to convert to other religions, according to the report: Of all the America adults who said they were raised as Hindus, 80 percent continued to adhere to Hinduism. Of those born Hindu, who did not any longer identify themselves as Hindus, 18 percent said they had no religious affiliation (a category that includes atheists and agnostics), and only one percent joined Christian Protestant sects.

Rajan Zed, the Nevada-based president of the Universal Society of Hinduism, attributed the high retention rate of Hinduism to “the focus on inner search, exploring the vast wisdom of scriptures and making spirituality more attractive to youth and children.”

The Hindu community in America is continuing with the traditional values of hard work, higher morals, stress on education, and sanctity of marriage amidst so many distractions. These are the highlights of the Hindu community profile in the report:

* Hindus have the lowest divorce rate of only 5 percent.

* Hindus are least likely to marry outside their religion: 91 percent have a spouse or partner who is a fellow Hindu.

* The median age of Hindu adults is 33 years.

* Five percent of San Francisco’s population is Hindu and three percent of New York City’s.

* Most Hindus live in the West (38 percent) and the Northeast (33 percent).

An anomaly in the report is that 62 percent of Hindus are men and 38 percent women, a difference of 24 percent, which may be due to the pattern of immigration.

Kamala Harris ranks No. 2 among 2020 Democrats to run against Trump

December 13, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Politics 0

As the mid-term elections have come to a close, the official launch of the 2020 Democratic presidential primary season has begun. Over a dozen prospective candidates will start making moves or even launching campaigns to challenge President Donald Trump.

According to a CNN report published recetly, Kamala Harris, the Senator from California ranks 2nd among the 10 potential aspirants to the White House among the Democrats. She comes after Sen. Elizabeth warren of MA among the 10 ranked by CNN. In June this year, The Washington Post ranked the Indian Origin Senator from the Golden State 3rd after Sen. Warren and Sen. Bernie sanders of Vermont.

The popular FiveThirtyEight.com wrote recently, “Sen. Kamala Harris has not officially said she is running in 2020, but she hasn’t denied it, either, and she’s showing many of the signs of someone who is preparing for a run, including campaigning for her Democratic colleagues in key races and signing a deal to write a book.”

Harris recently told MSNBC’s Kasie Hunt that she’s “not ruling out” a 2020 presidential run. But her actions may speak louder than her words. She was the first lawmaker to call for Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to resign over the Trump administration’s family-separation policy. She has also somewhat recently written off accepting money from corporate PACs.

According to CNN, “ Harris clearly saw the Kavanaugh confirmation hearings as a chance to showcase her prosecutorial mettle. And like Booker, what you took from Harris’ performance during the hearings is likely determined by what you thought of her before the hearings. But if you are looking at what the 2018 primaries have taught us, it’s that a candidate with a profile like Harris’ — liberal record, the first Indian-American in the Senate and first black senator from California — could be just what Democratic primary voters are looking for.”

In 2017, Kamala D. Harris was sworn in as a United States Senator for California, the second African-American woman and first South Asian-American senator in history. She serves on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, the Select Committee on Intelligence, the Committee on the Judiciary, and the Committee on the Budget.

Kamala has spent her life fighting injustice. It’s a passion that was first inspired by her mother, Shyamala, an Indian-American immigrant, activist, and breast cancer researcher.

Growing up in Oakland, Kamala had a stroller-eye view of the Civil Rights movement. Through the example of courageous leaders like Thurgood Marshall, Constance Baker Motley, and Charles Hamilton Houston, Kamala learned the kind of character it requires to stand up to the powerful, and resolved to spend her life advocating for those who could not defend themselves.

After earning an undergraduate degree from Howard University and a law degree from the University of California, Hastings, she began her career in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.

In 2003, Kamala became the District Attorney of the City and County of San Francisco. Among her achievements as District Attorney, Harris started a program that gives first-time drug offenders the chance to earn a high school diploma and find employment.

Having completed two terms as the District Attorney of San Francisco, Kamala was elected as the first African-American and first woman to serve as California’s Attorney General. In this role, she worked tirelessly to hold corporations accountable and protect the state’s most vulnerable people.

Over the course of her nearly two terms in office, Kamala won a $25-billion settlement for California homeowners hit by the foreclosure crisis, defended California’s landmark climate change law, protected the Affordable Care Act, helped win marriage equality for all Californians, and prosecuted transnational gangs that trafficked in guns, drugs, and human beings.

In the United States Senate, Kamala’s mission remains unchanged: fighting for the rights of all communities in California. Since taking office, she has introduced and cosponsored legislation to raise wages for working people, reform our broken criminal justice system, make healthcare a right for all Americans, address the epidemic of substance abuse, support veterans and military families, and expand access to childcare for working parents.

Nikki Haley, US Ambassador to United Nations, to leave office end of 2018

December 13, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Politics 0

United States ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki R. Haley, said on October 9, 2018 that she would resign at the end of the year, marking a high-profile departure of one of the few women in the president’s cabinet.

Ms. Haley, a former governor of South Carolina, had been an early and frequent critic of Mr. Trump; when he named her to the United Nations job weeks after his election in November 2016, the appointment was seen as an olive branch. As ambassador, Ms. Haley has been an outspoken and often forceful envoy — someone whom foreign diplomats looked to for guidance from an administration known for haphazard and inconsistent policy positions.

“It was a blessing to go into the U.N. with body armor every day and defend America,” Ms. Haley, seated next to Mr. Trump in the Oval Office, told reporters. “I’ll never truly step aside from fighting for our country. But I will tell you that I think it’s time.”

“I think you have to be selfless enough to know when you step aside and allow someone else to do the job,” she added.

White House staffers were caught off guard by the announcement, which Ms. Haley and Mr. Trump had kept closely under wraps. But the president said Ms. Haley had informed him roughly six months ago that she wanted to take a break after finishing two years with the administration. He said he hoped Ms. Haley would return in a different role, and would name her successor within the next two or three weeks.

“She’s done a fantastic job and we’ve done a fantastic job together,” Mr. Trump said. “We’re all happy for you in one way, but we hate to lose you.”

Ms. Haley, the first cabinet-level United Nations ambassador for a Republican administration since the end of the Cold War, quickly made clear she saw the position as a steppingstone to a higher political office — a possibility that Mr. Trump may have resented. She became a far more visible face of American foreign policy than her first boss at the State Department, former Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson. Mike Pompeo, Mr. Tillerson’s replacement, has recently reasserted the secretary of state’s traditional role.

Time magazine celebrated Ms. Haley’s ascendance by putting her on a cover as one of the women who are “changing the world.”

But Ms. Haley, who has long been seen as a potential presidential candidate, said on Tuesday she had no intention of running for president in 2020, as has been speculated. Instead, she said, she plans to campaign for Mr. Trump’s re-election.

Stepping away now could be a logical end point if Ms. Haley wants to preserve her own political future. But in the short term, people familiar with her thinking said that she is likely to work in the private sector and make some money.

For the moment, few Republican strategists believe that Ms. Haley is inclined to challenge Mr. Trump in 2020. But those who know her believe that she is likely to run, whether in 2024, or even in 2020 — should the president not run again.

”An open presidential race is a better chance to show off her incredible political skills, rather than some quixotic primary effort,” said Matt Moore, who was the Republican Party chair in South Carolina when Ms. Haley was governor there.

The daughter of immigrants from India, Ms. Haley favored free markets and global trade and earned international attention when she was governor for speaking out against the Confederate battle flag in the aftermath of the 2015 massacre at a black church in Charleston. During Mr. Trump’s presidential campaign, she sharply criticized his demeanor and warned what it might mean for American diplomacy — even suggesting that his tendency to lash out at critics could cause a world war.

As ambassador, Ms. Haley acknowledged her policy disagreements with the president in an op-ed in the Washington Post last month when she criticized an anonymous senior administration official who penned an opinion piece in The New York Times, describing a chaotic administration in which many of the president’s aides disagreed with their boss.

Possible successors include Dina Powell, a former deputy national security adviser to the president, and Richard A. Grenell. Mr. Grenell, the American ambassador to Germany, served as spokesman for John R. Bolton, the national security adviser, when he was ambassador to the United Nation under former President George W. Bush.

Dharmatma Saran: “India’s Cultural Ambassador to the World” Imbibing Indian values, traditions and culture among the youth of Indian origin through Miss India Worldwide Pageants

December 13, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion, India, Profiles, Youth 0

One of the few events I have always looked forward to attend with my family, ever since we moved to New York two decades ago, and would never want to miss, is the spectacular Miss India Pageants organized by India Festival Committee (IFC).

The annual pageants started in a basement in New York in 1980 with the first ever Miss India New York and Miss India USA, has evolved and expanded, now incorporating and having membership from over 40 countries, that promote Indian heritage and providing a platform for people of Indian origin to unite and showcase their talents, skills and beauty.

Dharmatma Saran, chairman and founder of the New York based India Cultural Festival (IFC) that organizes the trail blazing Miss India Worldwide, is a pioneer in entertainment, holding Indian pageants and fashion shows in the USA and worldwide.

In 1990, Dharmatma Saran, decided to take the pageant one step further to an international level and started The First Miss India Worldwide Pageant to identify and honor beauties of Indian origin the world over and the show graduated to become the top most international Indian pageant on the earth. “For the first time ever, Asian-Indian communities from all over the world came together in New York for this event,” says Saran with a sense of pride. “To the best of our knowledge, no other ethnic organization has ever conducted a pageant of this magnitude on an international level.”

The pageant was an instant success and was acclaimed as “the most glamorous Indian function in the world.”

“When Miss India New York started in 1980, I had perhaps not even in my wildest dreams imagined that in less than twenty years, we would fledge out to be a mass movement with affiliates in over 40 countries, let alone that we would one day have a live internet webcast and broadcast our most prestigious function, the Miss India Worldwide, to an audience of over 300 million people!”

The pageants aim to honor achievement, to celebrate our culture in many ways, among them, the ability to meet people, make friends, to respect and be respected, to continually strive to improve standards, and to live a life as close to the laws of nature.

In line with other prestigious international pageants, IFC started staging Miss India Worldwide in various parts of the world. In 1997, the pageant was organized in Bombay to salute India on its 50th anniversary of Independence. In the year 1998, the pageant was organized, in association with UTV International, in the exotic and beautiful city of Singapore, South Afrcia, Malyasia, UAE, Surinam and several other states in the US.

The IFC selects distinguished local organizations in various parts of the world and authorizes them to conduct national pageants in their respective countries. The India Festival Committee, started in 1974 in a most humble way, has come a long way. While seeking to collaborate with internationally reputed groups, Saran joined hands with the Times of India group’s Femina that runs the

beauty pageants in India until 1997.

The contestants in all the pageants are of Indian origin, between the ages of 18 and 28, and are citizens, residents, or born in the country which they represent. The pageant consists of four segments – Evening Gown, Ethnic Wear, Talent and Question-Answer. The winners of all the various national pageants from all over the world vie for the glamorous and prestigious title of the Miss India Worldwide.

Saran and the pageant are “very proud of the fact that we have been able to provide a common platform for the international Indian community through pageantry. We are equally proud of the fact that we have been able to imbibe Indian values, traditions and culture among the youth of Indian origin around the world. We have also been successful in promoting Indian performing arts in the world.”

In fact, motherland, culture and India are the words repeatedly invoked by most contestants. Clearly, this pageant was also about roots and identity. “We will never permit vulgarity and bikini wearing in our competitions. We don’t believe in the axiom, shorter the dress, greater will be the chances of winning the prize. We are very conservative in that. We only showcase the best of Indian culture and not the skin. We strongly oppose exhibiting women in a cheap manner on the dais,” Saran said adding that his shows are always meant for the entire family.

In the year 2016, saran introduced, on popular demand, the First Ever Mrs. India Worldwide, which has been received with enthusiasm from around the world. This is a pageant that provides married Indian women around the world with a platform, where they would get an opportunity to “Make a difference in the world.”

Most of these women have set their sights on professions like medicine, public relations and the law. The contest gave them a chance to take a detour and explore their Indian identities through colorful Indian attire and dance. Many of them have set their eyes on Bollywood and Hollywood, and participating in the pageants is a stepping stone for many to climb up the ladder in the world of fashion, silver screen, politics and charity.

Saran has become an internationally well-known leader in promoting pageantry around the world. Support came from most unexpected quarters. Noted actress, social worker, feminist and leader, Shabana Azmi, who is known to blast all beauty pageants, endorsed Saran’s show as noble as it helped funds for the deserving children.

“The IFC motivates and guides its winners and contestants to take up charitable causes. Many of our past winners have raised substantial amount of money for various charities, especially for handicapped children,” says Saran.

IFC has used the title to raise funds for the poor and the needy. Saran has been successful in combining beauty with charity. It was Saran’s dream that beauty works for a good cause. Bela Bajaria, one of his highly successful beauty queens from Los Angeles, has collected $35,000 each year for the Hand and Heart for the Handicapped for many years to help disabled children in US and India. Another successful Miss India Hong Kong collected $100,000 in a charity ball to help the helpless people.

Saran credits the success of the pageantry to his family and a team of hard working people. “I don’t know how I would have fared but for the unstinted support of Air India. Also my friends former News India editor John Perry; President of Jackson Heights Merchants Association V.N. Prakash; TV Asia Chairman Padmashree H.R. Shah, Bombay Broadcasting’s Giri Raj; and all the successive Indian Consuls General have stood with me.” he recalls with gratitude.

Saran is blessed with an understanding wife Neelam. She has been a source of great strength and support to him from the day one. His two daughters, Neema and Ankeeta have always been of great support and assistance.

Saran contributions to Indian culture has been appreciated and recognized by various organizations around the world and he has been acclaimed as “India’s cultural ambassador to the world.” He has traveled with his wife Neelam to various countries to start Indian pageant.

Recently he was awarded Bharat Gaurav Award held at the headquarters of United Nations in New York.

As Farook Khan, Chairman of Miss India-South Africa Corporation, says, “The Miss India-Worldwide Pageant has developed further into a grandiose platform of unity through culture over the few short years it has been in existence. It has become an event which is boundless and this has become a reality due to the foresight and vision of dedicated men and women who came to the United States of America to start a new life and to carry all that India has to and will continue to offer.”

To quote Khan, “At one time, the pageant was regarded as a beauty contest, it no longer suffers from this narrow reputation. It has fledged out to be a mass international movement which honors the performing arts, develops finesse as a way of life and puts into communities a sense of compassion.”

Saran and his dedicated band of men and women have inspired people around the world to participate in a truly remarkable spectacle that enjoys the status of a truly boundless Festival of good. The Miss India Worldwide is such a hallmark, it is not just a beauty pageant.

The Fabulous Full House at Pratibha’s Diwali Party

December 8, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: The Diwali Party presented by Pratibha Jairath (of Bollywood Sargam) in association with Altaf Bukhari of A B Entertainment was held at Ashyana Banquets on Nov 16th 2018. It was once again, a roaring success with over 500 people attending the event with Bollywood music and dance theme. It may have been a gray and dreary evening outside but inside, the hall was charged up with the amazing intensity of ladies dressed in jazzy, vibrant colors and men had equally matched them with their formal attire.

The evening started with warm welcome and Diwali greetings by the host Pratibha Jairath. She reminded the significance of Diwali, how it was celebrated in our diverse India and actually all over the world. She pointed out that same diversity was evident in the audience tonight.

Ms Jairath invited the Chief Guest Mr. Anil Loomba of Home Mortgage Solution for Lamp lighting. It was exciting to see that he brought his new grandson to stage. She proceeded further to invited other Guests of honors, Sponsors and supporters including Mr. Sunil Shah, Mr. Mayur Ganger, Dr Anuja Gupta, Mr. Brij Sharma, Mr. Ramanna Adhiraju, Mr. Altaf Bhukhari, Mr. Om Dhingra and Mr. Surinder Jain of Ashyana.

The musical concert started with sit down session by Pratibha Jairath in pink Sari that matched the neon pink LED light used in the décor of the hall. She presented a variety of songs, including “Suno Sajna Papihe ne”a song with a slight classical touch. Her rendition of the haunting melody ‘Yaara sili sili’ brought a big round of applause. She enthralled folks with interesting numbers like Diwani mastani, Piya Tose and Morni Baga ma and people started to dance by their tables. By the time Ms Jairath started ‘Do Lafzon ki hai’ and ‘Chura Liya’ everyone was on dance floor.

Another surge of excitement was seen when popular singer Bhupendra Singh came to stage with his popular numbers like ‘Do Dil’ and ‘Inteha ho gayee’……. His fans were just in a trance.

Raju Bankapur entered the stage with a big BANG number, Jumma Chumma and continued with his fast dancing medley ending with ‘Ye dosti’.

Fusion Qwali was a total hit with audience. It was a mix of Qwalies from different decades…Starting with Salam e Ishq meri jaan (Pratibha Jairath) including Na toh Karvan ki talash (Om Dhingra), Rashqe Kamar (Pradeep Sood and Vibha Rajput), Haal kya hai (Hari Mehta), Teri mehfil mein kismat, Allah ye ada and final piece Jhoom baraber Jhoom (Raju bankapur).

Multi-talented Raju Bankapur presented a beautiful flute item, one of his favorites “main tenu samjhava’ song.

Ms Jairath has strong ties with community because she has always maintained “Main Aasmaan nahin chhoona chahti, bus aapke dilon ko chho loon, meri yahi hai tammanna”. In her conversation with Mr. Mayur Ganger, she attributed the success of party to her wonderful friends.

Mr. Brij Sharma, a business entrepreneur, well known community leader and her strong supporter exclaimed “Wow, Pratibha, What a connection you have established with community that just with a few emails, you bring over 500 people to your party. You should continue this tradition of getting friends and community under one roof for festivals”.

The program had lot of variety which was appreciated by audience. Ms Jairath thanked a number of people who had brought their friend groups and especially Vandana Bankapur & Raju Bankapur for both decoration and execution help. She also commended her reception team Asha Mehta, Ranjana Gulati, Neelam Walia and Vandana Bankapur. She also thanked ‘Hitesh Master Orchestra team’ including Kafi Khan and Richard Christian for awesome music and Abhi Trivedi for doing DJ in last hour that kept people on the dance floor.

The ambience and arrangement of food was exceptional. There was a huge array of appetizers and dinner items that were certainly enjoyed by audience… people danced away thru the night and a number of them commented that that they were looking forward to the next party.

Indian American Medical Association IL celebrates 38th annual dinner gala banquet

December 8, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: Indian American Medical Association IL celebrated 38th annual dinner gala banquet on Saturday, November 17 at Aston place in Willowbrook.. The gala was a huge success with over 400 members, guests and the invitees attending the event. Many Chicagoland dignitaries were in attendance among whom were Congressman Danny Davis, Congressman Peter Roskam, cook county president Toni Preckwinkle and Indian consul general Neeta Bhushan.

The theme of the event was “share our pride: celebrate our work place”. Masters of Ceremonies were ABC Channel7 TV Anchor Ravi Baichwal and University of Chicago student Shreya Singh. It was a nonstop seamless evening of elegance, high class fashion show by Raaz, inspiring conversation, high profile honorees, sparkling presentations, fine cuisine, a comedy show par excellence, and a grand finale of Bollywood music by Shahzad Dar & troupe.

IAMA team headed by Dr. Srinivas Reddy along with Dr Vijay Prabhakar, a community leader made this event a successful one. The Honorary Life Membership of IAMA Honors to Congressmen Davis and Roskam, Cook county president Toni Preckwinkle, Indian Consul General Neeta Bhushan, ABC 7 news anchor Ravi Baichwal and community leader Dr. Vijay Prabhakar was the highlight of the event.

ABC anchor Ravi Baichwal gracefully welcomed all the guests while Dr Sidney Jain, IAMA Treasurer proposed a vote of thanks. The two important noteworthy features of the event were the presentation of IAMA Awards to community activists and leaders who had contributed a lot in the medical fields. Global Champion of Resuscitation award was given to Chicago Medical Society President Dr. Vemuri Murthy. The IAMA headed by Dr Srinivas Reddy also recognized with awards the CEOs and hospital heads in Chicago land who made the event yet more graceful by their presence.

In his address, IAMA President Dr Srinivas G Reddy touched upon the activities of his organization and indicated that he was determined to take it to a new height in the coming year. Collaboration was a key part of the success of the IAMA’s activities in 2018, under the vibrant leadership of Dr. Reddy assisted by his team. Dr. Srinivas Reddy firmly believes that the success of any individual and organization centers around honoring core family and championing our traditional family values.

The culmination of its various activities during the year was when IAMA hosted a South Asian Media Luncheon and sponsored several activities to combat Opioid epidemic and violence prevention programs in the inner city of Chicago. Under dynamic leadership by Dr. Reddy, IAMA introduced several activities to strengthen the organization and programs to involve second-generation physicians into the Indian American Medical Association of Illinois.

Sexual predators a growing menace for Indian children

December 8, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Poverty, parental ignorance blamed for spike in cases of sexual violence against minors in New Delhi, other parts of nation

India is witnessing an unprecedented upsurge in sexual violence against minors and children’s rights activists says poverty, parental ignorance, and unsafe living conditions are the chiefly to blame.

In the latest reported case, a 2-year-old girl was kidnapped and raped near a railway track in New Delhi’s Kotwali area on Nov. 20.

The toddler, who had been sleeping with her parents on a footpath, was gagged and taken away by a 24-year-old man. She was later found lying unconscious, naked and bleeding near the tracks. Her condition reportedly stabilized after she was hospitalized.

Sexual crimes against minors are increasing, according to studies by the federal government’s child development department.

The most vulnerable group is aged 5-12 years. The surveys conducted across all 29 Indian states indicated that more than half of Indian children, or 53 percent, reported experiencing one or more forms of sexual abuse.

The study conducted under the federal Child Development Ministry this year said some “21.9 percent of child respondents reported facing severe forms of sexual abuse.”

In at least half of the cases, the abusers were persons “known to the child or in a position of trust and responsibility,” it added.

A lack of parental awareness and unsafe living conditions of children were cited as the prime reasons for the rising number of cases of violence against children, according to Dilip Malhotra, a children’s rights activist based in New Delhi.

Children under 18 comprise 44.4 percent of India’s 1.2 billion people, reveals a study by David K. Carson, Jennifer M. Foster and Aparajita Chowdhury entitled “Sexual abuse of children in India.”

The study, conducted in 2011, claims Indian children are prone to exploitation and abuse because of half of the population has no access to basic education, nutrition, shelter or healthcare.

An estimated 1.7 million Indians are homeless, living on the streets, sleeping on railway platforms, and seeking refuge in other public places.

Many children who suffer abuse have no means of reporting the crimes they are subjected to, Malhotra said.

“They mostly face these ordeals in private and suffer the consequences both physically and mentally,” he added.

There have been at least six reported cases of child rape in New Delhi in recent months.

On April 24, a 13-year-old girl was raped in forestland in the capital. On June 12, a 12-year-old girl was raped inside a car. And on July 16, a 6-year-old girl was kidnapped and raped.

On Aug. 24, a 16-year-old girl reported that four men kidnapped and raped her over a period of one week. On Sept. 18, a 22-year-old man raped a 7-year old girl at a park. And on Sept. 24, a 6-year-old girl was raped by one of her neighbors on the terrace of her home.

Malhotra said most child abuse crimes go unreported. For most parents from impoverished households, eking out a living is a more pressing concern than reporting sexual harassment to the police, which they see as futile given the low rate of convictions.

Even in reported cases, the conviction rate hovers around 28 percent. Psychologist Ajit Nanda said the majority of child rapists are known to their victims.

“They could be anyone — an uncle, their father’s friend, an elder brother’s classmate. The problem is that the child for a long time doesn’t even understand what is happening to them,” Nanda said.

Srinigar-based rights advocate Shuja ul Hassan said those who prey on children often get away with it due to a lack of evidence against them.

“A child who is barely four or 5 years old doesn’t know what rape means and therefore cannot really explain what happened to them. Due to the lack of evidence, the culprits usually get away scot-free,” he said.

Hassan, a practicing lawyer, said parents should more closely monitor who their children interact with, in order to safeguard them and stop them from coming to harm.

Education is the key to check violence against children, said Imtiyaz Ahmad Khan, a children’s rights activist who is based in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

Moral and sex education should be made compulsory in schools and college nationwide, and pornographic literature and films should be banned, he said.

“Separate tribunals should be set up specifically for cases of child sexual abuse,” he said.

Mass media should also be better utilized to create awareness about the risks children face because most parents do not always understand the danger they are potentially in, experts say.

Source: UCAN

India home to a third of world’s stunted children: Report

December 8, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

According to report India tops the list of countries, with 46.6 million stunted children, followed by Nigeria with 13.9 million and Pakistan with 10.7 million.

Stunting among children under five has fallen globally from 32.6 per cent in 2000 to 22.2 per cent in 2017, but India is home to almost a third of the world’s stunted children, according to Global Nutrition Report.

The report released on Thursday states that India tops the list of countries, with 46.6 million stunted children, followed by Nigeria with 13.9 million and Pakistan with 10.7 million.

For the study, the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) used district-level aggregate data from the 2015-2016 National and Family Health Survey (NFHS) covering 601,509 households in 604 districts in India to understand the causes of the spatial variation.

“India holds almost a third (31 per cent) of the world’s burden for stunting and because India is so diverse from state to state, it is important to understand how and why stunting prevalence differs. Researchers used mapping and descriptive analyses to understand spatial differences in distribution of stunting,” the report said.

The mapping showed that stunting varies greatly from district to district (12.4 per cent to 65.1 per cent), with 239 of the 604 districts having stunting levels above 40 per cent.

The three countries with the most children who are wasted are almost the same ones – India (25.5 million) and Nigeria (3.4 million) but also Indonesia (3.3 million), the report suggested.

Using regression decomposition models, the study compared districts with low (less than 20 per cent) versus high (more than 40 per cent) burdens of stunting and explained over 70 per cent of the difference between high and low-stunting districts.

The study found that factors such as women’s low Body Mass Index (BMI) accounted for 19 per cent of the difference between the low versus high-burden districts. Other influential gender-related factors included maternal education (accounted for 12 per cent), age at marriage (7 per cent) and antenatal care (6 per cent).

Children’s diets (9 per cent), assets (7 per cent), open defecation (7 per cent) and household size (5 per cent) were also important factors.

“India’s national nutrition strategy – which is focused on addressing district-specific factors – draws on analyses such as these along with district-specific nutrition profiles to enable diagnostic work and policy action to reduce inequalities and childhood stunting,” the report noted.

“The figures call for immediate action. Malnutrition is responsible for more ill-health than any other cause. The health consequences of overweight and obesity contribute to an estimated four million deaths, while undernutrition explains around 45 per cent of deaths among children under five,” said Corinna Hawkes, co-chair of the Report and Director of the Centre for Food Policy.

NFIA Elects First Woman President in Four Decades of its Existence

December 1, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Women 0

A three-day convention was organized in metropolitan Washington DC during November 16, 2018 – November 18, 2018 weekend by the country’s one of the oldest associations of Indian American Associations – an umbrella group – the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA). All delegates from different states gathered at Sheraton Tyson corner, under the presidency of Sudip Gorakshakar. The convention was organized by convener Pooja Thomre of San Diego who was assisted by four Co-conveners, Angela Anand, now elected first female president of NFIA from Nation’s Capital, Pat Patnaik from California, Yogendra Gupta from Maryland and Raz Razdan from Georgia.

The convention started with the White House briefing, organized by then Vice President, Angela Anand, on Friday afternoon at EEOB. Mr. Stephen Peter Munisteri, Deputy Assistant to the President and Principal Deputy Director of the Office of Public Liaison was contacted by Angela Anand to arrange the briefing and also to speak to the delegates along with his assistant Melissa Fwu. Mr. Munisteri is a retired attorney from Houston, Texas, who from 2010 to 2015, was chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. In 2016 he joined the Rand Paul for President campaign. In 2017 he was appointed to the White House staff to manage the office of the Public Liaison for the President Trump.

For more than one hour, all delegates assembled at the Diplomatic Reception room of the White House – Eisenhour Executive building and received briefing from the Political appointees inclusive of Raj Shah, who is the White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary and Deputy Assistant to President, along with Stephen Peter Munisteri, Deputy Assistant to the President and Principal Director of the Office of Public Liaison and Martha Fwu also of Public Liaison office along with Pranay Udutha, another appointee, who spoke on the Health Initiatives of the President. All speakers, one by one, and in the interactive session gave opportunity to delegates to ask questions. Delegates asked questions on health and drug issues and administration policies on pricing of drugs and long research and development process of drugs along with companies using prime time to advertise drugs on television, press and media messages of networks regarding administration’s policies, education, transportation, presidents’ economic and business policies.

The speakers stated that President Trump has good relations with India and he will visit India when time permits and not for Republic Day event as he has scheduling conflicts. It was also said that reaching out to the Indian community is very crucial but Indians as whole are not reaching out to the present administration due to some pros and cons. He has done well for the economy, pay rises for people and better benefits for all but the news is not reaching out correctly to everyone due to media bias. Pranay Udutha, who works with Kelly Ann Conway said the administration is training families to request doctors to give shorter time for the use of opioids for medical conditions rather than 90 days and stacking up the medicines. The session ended with a tour of some historical areas of the selected portions of the White House.

In the evening, all delegates were hosted by the Indian Embassy and the event was organized by Yogendera Gupta. All officials including DCM Mr. Santosh Jha, Community Minister Anurag Kumar, Visa section chief and press personnel of the Indian Ambassador to U.S. Navtej Sarna, greeted all the delegates warmly and provided opportunity for networking reception. At this meeting, Community Minister Kumar offered the NFIA officials to speak and also ask questions.

The morning of second day of the convention, seminars were held on the topics: health and fitness – diabetes, yoga, Ayurveda, philanthropy (NGO – Snehalya), business and entrepreneurship along with Technology 20-20 seminars were held. “Did we bite more than what we could chew” – Technology 20-20 had distinguished gentlemen and technologists, a token female– one on the softer side of technology, i.e. software training, Angela Anand was engaged in this seminar. The seminar was moderated by Nanotechnology expert and a well-known community personality, Dr. Thomas Abraham, NFIA Founder and currently serving as chairman of GOPIO, who owns a market research firm Innovative Research and Products in Stamford, Connecticut. Panelists were Digvijay “Danny” Gaekward, Founder and CEO of NDS USA Information Technology; Vijay Lakshman, a serial entrepreneur, video gamer, designer, author of books; who is in technology management at present and Dr. Satyam Priyadarshy, Chief Data Scientist at Halliburton, Founder of Reignite Strategy and an adjunct faculty of several educational institutions.

The awards banquet on Saturday evening started with a cocktail hour followed by the award ceremony starting with American and Indian national anthems followed by a cultural program. Students of Natya Marg Bharat Natyam dance school performed dance along with their artistic director Indrani Davaluri and a fellow dancer Sulochana on pots and plates carrying lighted lamps. Students of Nrityaki performed kathak dance and vocalist Kshama Garg entertained by her melodious voice old and new songs from Bollywood. A Fashion show organized by Indrani Davaluri delighted all in the audience and so did the music of Aloke Das Gupta on Sitar. He was gracious and has played for Beetles.

At the banquet, Dr. Michael Griffin, Under Secretary of Defense; Congressman Todd Rokita (Indiana – R), Dr. John Anderson, Curator, Air and Space Museum, along with Swami Deerananda Ji, from Chinmaya Mission, spoke to an audience of NFIA delegates from across the country and leaders of the community from the Nation’s Capital. Gerald Connolly, a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives from Virginia’s 11th congressional district whose district the convention was held sent a congratulatory message as he was on nation’s business traveling out of the country.

The NFIA elections were held after the General Body meeting and was conducted by the Election Committee Chair Dr. Thomas Abraham along with members past NFIA President Radha Krishna and NFIA Executive Director Harihar Singh. The following were elected as new team for 2019.

President – Ms. Angela Anand; Exec Vice President – Ms. Lavanya Reddy; Vice Presidents – Dr. Yogendra Gupta, Mr. Ashok (Pat) Patnaik and Mr. Subbarao Makam; Secretary – Ms. Rachel Verghese; Joint Secretary – Dr. Satish Misra; Treasurer – Mr. Ajoy Dube; Directors-at-Large – Ms. Pooja Thomre, Mr. Satheesan Nair, Dr. Om Sharma, Ms. Padma Gupta, Mr. Babu K Patel, Dr. Lalita Kaul and Ms. Aparna Hande;

Regional Vice Presidents – Mr. Kamlesh Munshi (Capital), Ms. Vasu Pawar (South Pacific), Ms. Raj Razdan (South East) and Mr. Amrik Kamoh (North Pacific).

The newly formed NFIA Board appointed the following for various positions; Chairman NFIA Foundation – Mr. Sudip Gorakshakar, Executive Director Admin – Dr. Hari Har Singh and Second Executive Director – Mr. Kewal Kanda.

Commenting on the election, NFIA Founder Dr. Thomas Abraham said, “Indian American women involved in the community activities have made history at the NFIA convention when all the positions for which elections have been conducted gone to women, which shows women power in our community.”

“We hope that the new team will reach out to all Indian American community and professional organizations and make a truly representative body for the whole 4.5 million community,” added Dr. Abraham.

Outgoing President Sudip Gorakshakar and NFIA Founder President Dr. Thomas Abraham complimented Convention Convener Pooja Thomre for taking the responsibility to organize a successful convention.

NFIA awarded nine individuals, selected nationally for different categories and disciplines by a committee of five, chaired by NFIA Past President Inder Singh. The award ceremony was conducted by Dr. Thomas Abraham, who is chairman of GOPIO. The following were selected to receive the awards in person:

Dr. Ajay Kothari – Engineering, Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad – Business & Entrepreneurship, Shweta Misra, Classical Dance Artform – Performing Arts, Dr. Aman Mann – Health Sciences, Umi Mukherjee – Service to Indian American Seniors, Koshy Thomas – Media, Arti Manek – Folk and Classical Dance Art Forms, Aloke Dasgupta – Performing Arts, Sitar playing in Classical Tradition and Nami Kaur – Service to Non-profit Institutions.

Dr. Ajay Kothari is President and Founder of Astrox Corporation. His PhD and MS in Aerospace Engineering are from University of Maryland. He has over 50 professional publications, has been interviewed on TV about Space more than 10 times and authored more than 20 articles in news outlets. He has managed more than 30 contracts from Air Force, NASA and DARPA. He was awarded National Merit Scholarship, was awarded the “Engineer of the Year” award by ASEI, was the president of ASEI National Capital Chapter from 2014-2015, and was on Board of WHEELS Charity Foundation in 2016-2018.

Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad is the founder and CEO of NDS USA Information Technology. During the last three decades, Danny has built over a dozen small-and medium-sized companies, in diverse fields, such as convenience stores, real estate development, hospitality industry and information technology. His companies have created thousands of jobs in Florida and other parts of the United States, contributing millions of dollars to the economy. In 2016, Gov. Rick Scott recognized him with the “One Million Jobs” certificate of appreciation for his contribution “in helping Florida job creators add 1 million jobs between December 2010 and December 2015.”

Multi-talented Shweta Misra is a well-known Kathak dancer in the DC area and operates Nrityaki Dance Academy to teach Kathak dance artform. Her dance school is affiliated with a university in India – Prayag Sangeet Samiti, through which students can obtain Master’s degree in Kathak. She and her dance academy students have performed at prestigious locations such as White House, Kennedy Center, and Indo-American Galas. She has a MS Degree in Computer Science from Virginia Tech and works as a Senior Software Engineer. She became Mrs. India Virginia 2015 and is Mrs. India DC 2018.

Dr. Aman Mann is a Research Faculty at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute. Aman’s research expertise span different fields of neuroscience including neurotrauma (TBI) and neurodegenerative conditions (Multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease). His discoveries in the laboratory support the development of new disease-modifying drug candidates for brain injury and Alzheimer’s disease which are currently being developed at AivoCode. Aman is the founder and Chief Operating Officer of AivoCode Inc., in La Jolla, California. He completed his Bachelors in Bioengineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi and received his PhD in Nanomedicine from University of Texas.

Umi Mukherjee – Service to Indian American Seniors, says, “About 27 years ago, I started a Seniors’ club in Southern California. I used to pick up and drop them off at their homes on Tuesday afternoons. After 5 months, I changed the venue to a more central place and the membership increased manifold. I paid for the rental of the hall, snacks & lunches for first 4-5 years. The membership has always been FREE and we have about 250 seniors at monthly meetings. For the last few years, I have been getting sponsors for monthly meetings. We take seniors to overnight trips also. For me, it is the biggest achievement of my life when I can make seniors happy.”

Koshy Thomas, publisher and CEO of Voice of Asia Group, the parent corporation for the weekly publication, Voice of Asia, which has served as the authoritative voice of the South Asian community in Texas for over 30 years. Mr. Thomas created Voice of Asia to nurture and promote the political, economic and cultural ambitions of the South Asian community in Texas. Mr. Thomas and his wife Moani have three daughters and three grandsons.

Arti Manek – Folk and Classical Dance Art Forms. Dancing, performing and teaching has been Arti’s passion since childhood. Arti learnt Indian Classical kathak dance from the renowned Guru, Abhay Shankar Mishra, in England culminating in the establishment of Shankara Dance Academy, now flourishing in Los Angeles. Legendary Pt. Birju Maharaj attended the first Rang Manch Pravesh of her student as the chief guest. Arti also achieved immense acclaim in folk dance, getting numerous awards in FOGANA competitions and productions of mega dance drama shows including Ramayana with Pujya Morari Bapu as chief guest.

Aloke Dasgupta – Performing Arts, Sitar playing in Classical Tradition. Aloke Dasgupta studied under the guidance of Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, and has performed with V.G. Jog, the LA Philharmonic and the Rolling Stones, Gwen Stefani, among others. He composed for movie “Out Source” and for “Ocean of Pearl” received award. He has performed extensively in India, Japan, the USA, and Europe. He played for Lincoln Center, Hollywood Bowl, Ford Theatre. Finally with “Cheap Trick” he performed 36 shows in Vegas “ Recreation of Sgt. Pepper by Beatles. He founded the Raga Ranjani School of Music in 1986 and has been teaching sitar ever since.

Nami Kaur – Service to Non-profit Institutions. Nami Kaur donates her time/skills to non-profit organizations, following a corporate career at IBM Corporation. She serves as: Executive Board Member – Children’s Hope India (CHI); a New York based non-profit. At CHI, she led the development of its new website and manages outreach initiatives with dignitaries; Chair – GOPIO Media Council. Manages communication with the South Asian media and Editor – monthly Newsletter, GOPIO International; Board Director – Riveredge Coop; Her focus, has been to improve communications between the Board, Property Management and the Resident Shareholders and Volunteer – New York Botanical Garden. Nami holds MBA in Marketing and MS in Mathematics.

Peter Bheddah Honored with Bharat Samman Award in House of Lords, UK

December 1, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

New York-based well-known community leader and philanthropist Peter Bheddah received the prestigious Bharat Samman Award at the 30th annual NRI Pravasi Divas on October 26, 2018 for being a successful businessman turned outstanding humanitarian helping the needy in India and the United States. The award was conferred on Bheddah in the presence of Lord Swraj Paul, Lord Karan Bilimoria, Commissioner of Canada to India Mr. Nasir Patel, and many other dignitaries at the House of Lords in London, United Kingdom.

The Bharat Samman Award is bestowed upon a group of select People of Indian Origin living in India or abroad for their outstanding achievements in their respective fields.

The award is confirmed by the NRI Institute, a non-profit NGO that is a registered body of PIOs connecting the Indian diaspora since 1989 as a platform to honor exceptional overseas Indians. The recipient of the Bharat Samman Award demonstrates an understanding of a community’s needs through exemplary selfless volunteer service.

Malla Reddy Bokka, President-Elect & Founder, Indian Association of Greater Chicago

December 1, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: The Annual Board Meeting was held at 1228 Tiffany Ct, Indian Creek on November 9, 2018. This term IAGC unanimously elected its new leader Malla Reddy Bokka and the new board under the guidance of KK Reddy from Advisory Board.

“I am honored to be elected as President-Elect of Indian Association of Greater Chicago unanimously by the Board of Directors and It’s great privilege to serve Indian community and my mission to preserve and maintain the heritage of all American Indians in Chicago and it’s suburbs; to promote literary, cultural, educational, religious, social and economic activities of the Indian community” said by Malla Reddy Bokka, President-Elect & Founder, IAGC

The event was presided by Founding Members Malla Reddy, Manoj Singam – Setti and Harindar Reddy Puliyala. IAGC President Malla Reddy will spearhead the team for the two year term (2018 thru 2020) with the help of Vice President Gurmeet Singh Dhalwan , Executive Chairman Harindar Reddy Puliyala, Business Development Director Nilesh Topiwala, Advisory Board Chairman Hina Trivedi and the entire board which include Secretary Nawaz, Treasurer Sandeep, Joint Secretary Prasanth, Joint Treasurer Rajesh , Cultural Secretary Mahesh Voora.

The President Malla Reddy plans to take the organization to new heights with events planned for celebrating New Year Celebration, India Independence Day, Ganesh Utsav, Holi, Diwali, Pongal and Batukamma. This term IAGC will also host Winter Coat Drive, Food Drive, Toys of Kids, Will & Trust, and Conducting yoga camp etc..

IAGC Youth wing is a subsidiary allied front of IAGC this is formed in order to rally support for IAGC from members and potential members of a younger age, as well as to focus on subjects and issues more widely relevant among IAGC youth. IAGC Youth Wing plans to take on projects like Job Fair, Cricket Tournament, Indoor Game competition and Youth Leadership Development Skill Camps etc.

Indian Embassy commemorates 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks victims

December 1, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The Embassy of India in Washington D.C. hosted a Solemn event called “in memory of the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks,” which was attended by Ambassador-at-Large and Coordinator for Counter-terrorism in the U.S. State Department Ambassador Nathan A. Sales, Mr. Basant Sanghera and Ms. Jennifer Whethey, Director in the US National Security Council at the White House, Rabbi Levi Shemstov, Executive Vice President, American Friends of Lubavitch (Chabad).

According to a press release, remarks on the occasion were delivered by India’s Ambassador to the United States, Navtej Sarna, Ambassador Nathan Sales and Rabbi Levi Shemstov.

During his remarks, Ambassador Sarna paid tributes to the innocent lives that were lost during these attacks which included Indians and citizens from 14 other countries, including the United States.

He condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and urged the international community to call on Pakistan to bring the perpetrators of this heinous terrorist attacks to justice.

He also thanked the U.S. State Department for instituting a “Rewards for Justice” program announcing a bounty for any information leading to arrest or conviction of any individual involved in planning or facilitating the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

A moment of silence was observed for the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks. To honor the memory of the victims, a moment of silence was observed by the attendees followed by the lighting of candles.

Extracts from an article written on this occasion were delivered by Kia Scherr, Co-founder of a charity ‘One Life Alliance’ and a family member of one of the American victims.

The event concluded with the screening of the HBO documentary on the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, titled ‘Terror in Mumbai.’

Commemoration ceremony in NYC on the occasion of 100th anniversary of HAIFA Day & 10th Anniversary of terrorist attacks in Mumbai

December 1, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The Consulate General of India, New York in collaboration with Consulate General of Israel and The American India Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) held a memorial service on Monday, November 26, 2018 to pay homage to Indian, American & Israeli victims of the barbaric Mumbai terror attacks. Mr. Sandeep Chakravorty, Consul General of India in New York led the memorial service in the presence of Indians, Americans and other nationalities who had also come to pay homage to the victims.

Given the solemnity of the occasion, the gathering stood for a minute of silence in honor of the victims of HAIFA Day and those who were lost in the terrorist attacks in Mumbai. Mr. Issac Blech then sang national anthems of U.S.A., Israel and India. Speaking on the occasion, the speakers of the evening – Mr. Dani Dayan, Consul General of Israel, Mr. Seth Siegel, bestselling author and Mr. Jagdish Sewhani, President of AIPAC were all united in their message that the world stands in solidarity & friendship with India to mourn & fight Terrorism together and condemned the impunity available to the masterminds in Pakistan & called for justice.

Consul General Chakravorty highlighted the significance of HAIFA battle in the history of India – Israel relations and remembered the tragic 26/11 terror attacks on Mumbai. He also read out the recent statement made by Government of India and Mr. Mike Pompeo, Secretary of State, in which Mr. Pompeo called upon all countries, particularly Pakistan, to uphold their UN Security Council obligations to implement sanctions against the terrorists responsible for this atrocity, including Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and its affiliates.

Bill to prevent NRI husbands from abandoning their wives

December 1, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, India, Politics 0

The government would bring a bill in the coming winter session of the Parliament as part of its efforts to check the menace of NRI husbands abandoning their wives, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said last week.

“We have already launched an institutional mechanism, where you must have seen that 25 passports of such NRI husbands have been revoked. We are also bringing a bill in this session where some more measures are being taken against those husbands,” she told reporters in Hyderabad.

Swaraj, who was in Hyderabad in connection with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s campaign for the December 7 Telangana assembly elections was replying to a query about Non-Resident Indian (NRI) husbands abandoning their wives.

On November 13, the Supreme Court has also sought response from the Centre on a plea seeking mandatory arrest of NRIs deserting their wives and harassing them for dowry.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph issued notices to the Centre on the plea seeking that the deserted women be accorded legal, financial help and their estranged NRI husbands be arrested after the filing of FIRs.

A group women, who have allegedly been deserted by their NRI husbands and subjected to dowry harassment, have moved the apex court seeking reliefs including mandatory arrest of their estranged spouses and consular help in fighting cases in foreign land.

Gujarat Cultural Association, Chicago, Celebrated Festival of Lights, with colorful Traditional fashion

December 1, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: Gujarat Cultural Association, Chicago (GCA) hosted Diwali Celebrations, accompanied by an Musical Melodies Group by Raju Bankapur and his Group that attracted a large number of family’s friends, and community figures of the city, on Saturday, November 17, 2018 at The Meadows Club, 2950 W. Golf Road, Rolling Meadows, IL. The program was highly successful with the active support of the Sponsors, Executive Board, GCA Members and Volunteers.

Gujarat Cultural Association was established by brain child and founding member Mr. Shankarbhai Patel, Lalubhai Patel, Babubhai Patel and others in 1973. Gujarat Cultural Association is a First and Largest Gujarati Association in Chicago Metropolitan Area.

The Program start with Mrs. Amisha Patel welcoming everyone, including Banquet Chair Mr. Jyotendra Patel and GCA, Chairman Kanti S. Patel. Event commenced with the traditional lighting lamp ceremony was performed by Chief Guest, Dr. Rasmi Patel and Guest of Honor Mr. J.B. Bhatti, Consul, from Indian Consulate Office, Kanti S. Patel and his wife Jyoti Patel, Jyotendra Patel and his wife Geeta Patel and other dignitaries.

MC was “Evergreen” Mrs. Amisha Patel & Hetal Patel. Amisha Patel invited Kanti Patel, Chairman of GCA and Chief Guest on Stage Dr. Rasmi Patel. Mr. Kanti Patel introduces Chief Guest, Dr. Rasmi Patel.

Dr. Patel thanked Gujarat Cultural Association for tireless work by its member, especially Kanti Patel. Amisha invited Guest of Honor Mr. D.B. Bhatti. Mr. Bhatti congratulated leadership and entrepreneurship of the community of diaspora from Gujarat and especially paid special tribute to Mahatma Gandhi who also hailed from Gujarat in India. Amisha Patel also invited on Stage Hon. Dorothy Brown, Clerk of Circuit Court, IL. Mr. Kanti Patel introduce Ms. Dorothy Brown. Brown said, I salute the Gujarat Cultural Association, Chicago during the Diwali observance. May this New Year be filled with joy and further progress for the betterment of all, as you celebrate the “Festival of Lights.”

Award Ceremony followed and were given to outstanding community leaders as follows,

Distinguished Banker of the year Award: Mr. Moti Agarwal
Outstanding Accountant Award: Mr. Anil Shah
Distinguished Community Leadership Award: Dr. Anuja Gupta
Women of the Year Award: Mrs. Rita Shah

Other prominent leaders, Community Members and Distinguished Businessman fellows were recognized on the stage by Kanti Patel, Chairman of GCA and received a Bouquet of Flower. Included was Mr. Kalpesh Joshi of AAHOA Director of Upper Midwest, Mita Patel from Air India, Iftekhar Hasnat from MB Financial Bank, Ashok Punjabi of Chicago Imports, Pratap Gohil, CEO of Summit Construction, Sunil Shah from New York Life Ins., Ashok Shah of Senior Medicare Specialist, Mr. Gulzar Singh from Pan Oceanic Company.

Wishing everyone very happy, healthy and prosperous upcoming New Year, Kanti S. Patel concluded his speech by requesting everyone for their continued support co-operation and participation in future events. Among the invited dignitaries Hon. Bruce Rauner, Governor of Illinois, Hon. Jesse White, Secretary of Illinois State, Hon. Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President were not present in event however they send message to Gujarat Cultural Association.

Bruce Rauner, Governor of Illinois, in his massage said Thank you for your daily efforts in promoting the well-being of the community and the richness of Indian Culture here in the Land of Lincoln. As the Gujarat Cultural Association celebrates Diwali, it is also an exciting year across the State of Illinois as we commemorate our state’s 200^th birthday.

Toni Preckwinkle, President of Cook County, in her massage said Gujarat Cultural Association has evolved to strengthen and unite the Gujarati Community through organized picnics, sports competition, musical events and collaboration with other national organizations.

Jesse White, Secretary of Illinois State, in his massage said each year GCA’s annual banquet, also known as the Hindu Festival of lights, brings community members together to celebrate Diwali tradition with a festive dinner and outstanding entertainment.

Gujarat Cultural Association also Celebrate 200^th Birthday of State of Illinois

At Fall Governing Body Meet in Dallas, TX, Leaders Commit to Strengthen AAPI

November 25, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity 0

Nearly a hundred AAPI leaders, including current Executive Committee Members, Members of the Board of Trustees, past AAPI Presidents, leaders of AAPI local Chapters and Regions came together at the Embassy Suites of Hilton in Dallas, TX on November 16th to take stock of AAPI and plan and recommit themselves for a stronger and more unified and forward looking organization that is more responsive to the needs of the Indian American physicians and the large population of people they are committed to serve in the United States and back home in India.

The overall themes of the day were on the need and ways to enhance AAPI membership; strengthening national and local AAPI Chapters and Regions; providing a unified voice in the national and state Capitals to make AAPI’s voice heard and recognized; and building a stronger, vibrant, transparent and unified AAPI.

Dr. Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI, provided a brief report of his 4 months long Presidency of the largest ethnic medical organization in the US, and offered a vision for a stronger and greater AAPI. In his presidential address, Dr. Parikh stressed on: Open Communication between all bodies of AAPI and its members, through his weekly newsletter; Transparency in all aspects including finances; stronger membership drive, inviting and urging many more Physicians of Indian origin to join the group; A unified and stronger AAPI that represents all backgrounds, all areas and regions, providing representation to all groups of the large body that AAPI stands for; bridging the Generation Gap, and providing opportunity to new generation of AAPI leaders to lead the many initiatives; and for AAPI to maintain its status as a not for profit, while actively engaged in its role to be a unified voice on Capitol Hill and in the state legislatures.

Dr. Parikh pointed to a great start under his leadership with a well-coordinated Executive Committee members, and having worked to purge the AAPI membership list to be accurate, and working to create a solid financial foundation for the organization through an establishment of AAPI Endowment Fund that is ever growing and sound.

Dr. Suresh Reddy, President-Elect of AAPI, who has served as the chairman AAPI Bylaws Revision Committee, consisting of 14 members, said, his team has worked tirelessly to make the laws more relevant to the changing and growing needs of AAPI. He presented to the Body the new Bylaws of AAPI, which was unanimously adopted by the Governing Body. He stated that the same spirit of the original laws of AAPI have been maintained, while efforts have been made to strengthen bylaws in order to make AAPI stronger. Dr. Reddy, who will assume charge as the President of AAPI at the upcoming Convention in July invited members to join the Antartica Cruise he and his team are planning for AAPI members in January 2020.

Dr. Vinod Shah, Chairman of the AAPI’s Legislative Committee, provided an update on the upcoming Legislative Day in April. “We will work with the Congress and Senate Leaders on the Hill to make our voices heard on the corridors of power,” he said, while urging AAPI members to attend at the event.

Dr. Jagan Ailinani, a past president and philanthropist addressed the delegates about the need to collaborate with the Tata Trust Foundation to address the financial and healthcare needs of the cancer patients in India and to work with the Tata Group to provide Pure Drinking Water to rural India. He urged AAPI to collaborate with Tata Foundation for Making Sustainable Difference in the lives of the people of India.

Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Chairman of the AAPI GHS in Mumbai 2018 provided a description of the many unique events that are part of the Global Healthcare Summit in Mumbai, India from December 28th to 30th. The focus of the Summit will be an India-centric approach, with special events on: Research contest, CPR Training to first responders and teachers; CMEs; Entertainment; and Pre-Post GHS Tours to Goa, Kerala, and other exotic places in India, he said.

Conceived and developed by Mr. Anwar Feroz Siddiqi and building on the successful experiences of the past twelve years of CEO forum at the AAPI Global Health Summits, The 8th HealthCare CEO forum is proposed to be Jointly Chaired by Managing Director, Niti Ayog, DGHS and Secretary Health and invited Healthcare Leaders, Health Attache US Embassy Delhi, US FDA Country Head, India, Chief Executive Officers from Hospitals, Teaching Institutions, Pharmaceutical Industry, Medical Devices, Diagnostics, Health Insurance and NGO’s. Leaders from Indian Pharmaceutical Companies will discuss ways to ensure that lower cost and effective medicines with the highest quality continue to make India the world leader in this field. The forum will have a special discussion on successful implementation of “AYUSHMAN BHARAT” – is a brainchild of the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, whose vision is to provide quality healthcare to India’s billion people – a project that is being watched intently across the Globe for emulation.

Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Vice-President, gave an update on his initiatives on enhancing the membership drive and to make known about the member benefits to the members of the 46 Chapters of AAPI across the nation. He urged each Chapter to help enrol a minimum of 20 new members.

In her address, Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, notified the AAPI delegates on the progress on CPR Guidelines for India. She urged AAPI to take a lead role in establishing and the implementation of this much needed cause. As Secretary of AAPI, she appealed to AAPI leaders to help towards the realization of the Million Dollar Endowment Fund for AAPI.

Dr. Anjana Samadder was inducted as the Treasurer of AAPI, and she shared with the AAPI leaders of her vision for a vibrant and financially sound AAPI. Dr. Hemant Dhingra, Entertainment Chair of AAPI provided a detailed description of the planned 9 City Tour by popular Bollywood star, Neha Kakar, which is a way to raise funds for AAPI and its many local Chapters. The event will have its finale with Sonu Nigam joining the 60 member live artists in Atlanta, GA.

Dr. Prachi Dua, President, MSRF and Dr. Praveen Arla, President, YPS, shared with the members about their efforts to enhance membership among Young Physicians using social media, and about the planned National Volunteers Day.

Dr. Narendra Kumar, past President of AAPI, served as the Speaker of the Governing Body meeting in Dallas. It was to the credit of the organizers that the meeting had several past Presidents and current and past BOT members and Chairs.

Coordinated and organized by Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, Secretary of national AAPI and Dr. Anjana Samadder, Treasurer of national AAPI, Dr. Udaya Shivangi, past Chairwoman of AAPI’s Women’s Forum, the annual meeting was well attended, giving an opportunity for AAPI leaders to take stock of past year and plan to work effectively for the greater good of its members and for the well-being of the larger society.

The day-long event concluded with Dr. Naresh Parikh addressing the TIPS annual Gala and fund raiser for Breast Cancer awareness. The national AAPI delegates were special guests at the gala by one of the most active and largest Chapters of AAPI.

NIAASC organizes 29th conference/anniversary on Long Island, NY

November 25, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The National Indo-American Association for Senior Citizens (NIAASC) held its 29^th Conference on Seniors and celebrated its 20th anniversary on November 10, 2018 at the Indian American Kerala Center in Elmont in collaboration with India Association of Long Island (IALI), a 40 year old community based association, and Shanti Niketan, the first Housing Complex in Florida. A little over fifty participants attended this interactive whole day conference focusing on two major subjects: SPECIAL NEEDS OF INDO-AMERICAN SENIORS and HEALTH CARE ADVANCES FOR SENIORS.

The conference was opened by Dr. Thomas Abraham, Founder of GOPIO (Global Organization of People of Indian Origin). NIAASC was initiated by GOPIO in 1998. He traded the history of NIAASC as to how it sought the help of National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA), based in Seattle, WA. Thomas focused on as to how NAPCAS successful ten-year-old operation can be worked out for Indian seniors in the United States at an Indian community leaders in July 1998 which was attended by two dozen community leaders. After 4-hour intensive deliberations the group unanimously asked Mr. Rajeshwar Prasad to arrange a conference to understand issues and aspirations of Indian seniors. The conference was help in September 1998 where the NIAASC was created. Its mission was limited to provide information, referral and advocacy services to help seniors on Indian origin.

Since 1998 NIAASC Has arranged 28 conferences on seniors in various places in USA and its 29th conference was held this month in New York. The major subjects discussed at the conference include:

Speakers at the conference were: Mr. Jorge Martinez, Deputy Commissioner Nassau County, NY; Caitlyn Murphy, from NY Contacts Department, and, Dr. Kul Anand, Geriatric Physician.

The conference was coordinated by Dr. Bhavani Srinivasan, NIAASC Vice President. Mr. Prasad elaborated that presentation by Nassau County Deputy Commissioner was very comprehensive on Nassau AAA (Area Agency on Aging).

Prasad further elaborated that NIAASC uses these AAAs as front line support for seniors. Any caller to NIAASC is referred to local AAA in the callers’ zip code.

IALI President Rastogi elaborated on activities by IALI for seniors and other people in Long Island. Stephen, Founder of Kerala Center described also in details services rendered by the Center for seniors and their families.

The conferences ended with the NIAASC General Body meeting where the Nominating Committee member, Satpal Malhotra informed that Ms. Gunjan Rastogi is nominated to serve on the NIAASC Board of Directors, and she was eventually selected by the Board as Secretary of NAASC.

The Nominating Committee member Malhotra chaired the organizational meeting of the NIAASC Board and the following officers were elected for a term of two years:

Rajeshwar Prasad as President, Dr. Bhavani Srinivasan s and Dr. Ashok Sapre from California as Vice Presidents, Gunjan Rastogi as Secretary, and Satpal Malhotra as Treasurer. The event ended with celebration of Diwali where all participants were given a box of sweets, sponsored by Dr. Bhavani Srinivasan.

NRIs honor Veterans of Indian Origin

November 25, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

During the month of November Veterans Day is Celebrated all over the country, Thanking Veterans for serving our country and protecting our freedom. On Thursday November 15, 2018 Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Indian American Forum and Indian American Bar Association and Indian American Community presented SALUTE TO VETERANS. A Veteran’s Day Celebration Honoring and Saluting Hometown Heroes., at Hicksville Community Center, Hicksville. Program started with Pledge of Allegiance and American National Anthem by Innesa Tymochko-Dekajlo . Innesa presented beautiful Violin performances. Mr Mohinder Singh Taneja welcomed the audience and stressed the importance of Celebrating and saluting our Veterans.

Indu Jaiswal Chairperson of Indian American Forum introduced Supervisor Saladino and thanked the town for helping and organizing this special program. Supervisor Saladino praised the efforts of Indian American Community in initiating such an important program recognizing our home town heroes.

Indu Jaiswal and Deborah Misir, President of Indian American Bar Association introduced the Honorees.

Leadership Award presented to Harry Ballan, Dean of and professor of Law of Touro College Jacob D Fuchsberg Law Center. He has served the veterans community for decades… He started a music therapy for veterans with PTSD and traumatic brain injury at the institute for Music and Neurological Function .He continues to help and support wounded veterans.

Distinguished Services Awards Presented to: Col. Virendra Tavathia (Retd). An Aluminums of Prestigious Indian Military Academy Dehradun. He was commissioned in the famous second battalion Rajputana Rifles in 1977. During his career he held various instructional, command and staff appointments. In 2003 he joined the financial services industry and currently hold the position of Managing Director of Amogh Wealth Management. An ardent supporter of the soldiers and their families. He is passionate about helping the children of fallen soldiers and their families.

Slynthia Burges: US Army Sylinthia Burges is Nassau County County Veterans Service Agency for first woman Veteran’s Counselor. She works as homeless case manager specializing in the veteran homeless population in NYC.Presently Slynthia is the first Nassau County woman Veterans Counselor. The mission of Women in Military is to provide unique opportunities and resources required for women who are currently serving on active duty as veterans as they assimilate back into civilian life.

Niki L Prasad served in the United States Army, monitored and ordered artillery supplies. Reviewed and organized confidential documents. Served as battalion support staff for a multiple Launch Rocket Systems Field Artillery Unit. Also she has worked as Police Sargent in New York City police Department… Currently working as Legal intern in a Law Firm in East Setauket.

It was indeed a great evening of Celebration and Salutation presented in honor of our Veterans.

Donations of Woolen Socks, gloves and scarves were made to the Veteran Families in need.

Inessa enthralled the audience with her violin performances. Mr Mukesh Modi and Dr Urmilesh Arya praised the effort and achievements of all the Veterans.

New Report finds increase in hate crimes against Indian Americans

November 25, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

A new report on hate crime statistics released by the FBI Nov. 13 reveals a disturbing surge of hate crimes against the Indian American community, particularly Muslims and Sikhs.

The report compiled data from more than 16,149 participating law enforcement agencies across the country, who used the Uniform Crime Report, which – as of 2016 – includes data specifically about the number of hate crimes against Sikhs, Hindus, and Buddhists. Though the number of hate crime incidents increased in 2017, the number of reporting agencies also increased by more than 1,000, noted the FBI in the release of the report.

Participating law enforcement agencies reported 7,175 hate crimes to UCR in 2017, up from 6,121 in 2016, about a 17 percent increase. The largest number of incidents involved race, ancestry, and ethnicity, in which African Americans were overwhelmingly the victims, with 2,358 reported offenses and 2,458 victims. A total of 152 anti-Asian hate crimes were reported in this category.

Incidents related to religion constituted the second highest number of reported hate crimes, with 1564 incidents and 1,749 victims. Jewish people were overwhelmingly the targets; more than 1,000 Jews were victimized for their religious beliefs. Muslims were the second-largest number of victims: 325, from 273 incidents.

Also a total of 495 hate crimes were reported to the FBI in 2017, of those, 260 were linked to bias based on race or ethnicity and 180 involved people or locations targeted because of religion, the Record reports.

According to a South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) press release, this is an alarming upward trend in hate crimes, especially against Indian Americans of Sikh origin and Arab Americans, and it has now consistently surpassed the spike immediately after the attacks of September 11, 2001.

On another note, the overall number of hate crimes targeting Muslim Americans has decreased by 11 percent however, the 2017 total of 273 anti-Muslim hate crimes continues to be a historically high number, the press release adds.

Since November 2016, SAALT’s data on incidents of hate violence aimed at South Asian, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, Middle Eastern and Arab Americans show that more than 80 percent of the documented incidents are motivated by anti-Muslim sentiment, though the underreporting of hate crimes by local law enforcement agencies to the FBI remains to be a major problem, according to ProPublica’s “Documenting Hate” project.

Although, the FBI itself does not regularly submit the hate crimes it investigates to its own database, such as the failure to include Srinivas Kuchibhotla’s 2017 murder in Olathe, Kansas at the hands of a white supremacist by the name of Adam Purinton, who was convicted on a federal hate crimes charge earlier this year.

There is also a lack of political will on the part of the Department of Justice to collect this critical data combined with this administration’s flawed approach to understanding and addressing hate crimes makes us all less safe and places a burden of data collection on communities, the SAALT press release states.

In addition, the Trump administration’s continued refusal to acknowledge the growing problem of white supremacy ignores the primary motivation behind the violence targeting these communities as the 2017 FBI data shows that of the more than 6,000 hate crimes where the race of the offender was reported, more than 50 percent of the perpetrators were identified as white.

ADF INDIA CELEBRATES 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

November 25, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

In the national capital of India, the 70th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was celebrated by ADF India through a campaign I’m Human, Rights to commemorate the United Nations’ proclamation on 10th December, 1948 in Paris that ushered in a groundbreaking understanding of the universality of human rights.

The campaign that took place at the India International Centre Annex, New Delhi on Thursday, November 22, 2018, urged the governments both in center and states to uphold the right to life, to family and to religious freedom as was the original intent of the Universal Declaration. Please find the Geneva Statement at ImHumanRight.org.

The participants that included several legal luminaries, social activists and reputed members of civil society reminded the government of the day that as a signatory of the Universal Declaration and being the world’s largest democracy – India’s role in this campaign is vital and to reaffirm that human dignity is innate and that human rights cannot be given or taken away by the State or any other actor.

Rebecca M. John, Senior Advocate, speaking on human right violations in the Hashimpura massacre case said, “Make no mistake, by taking 31 years to punish the guilty, our justice system failed all of the victims, and each one of us.”

“I hope the “I’m Human, Right?” campaign will draw attention to the violations of basic fundamental freedom faced by religious minorities, especially Christians across the country. We encourage the fellow citizens to no longer be silent on these issues and ensure those who continue to violate fundamental human rights are held accountable,” said Tehmina Arora, Director, ADF India.

Diwali celebrated at the White House

November 17, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

President Donald Trump joined in the lighting of the ceremonial diya to jump-start the Diwali celebrations at the Roosevelt Room in the White House, as scores of Indians and Indian-Americans joined in the Diwali celebrations on November 13th.

The diya that President Trump lit, was surrounded by red, orange, and yellow flowers. The President arrived at 2:03 p.m. and thanked all, motioning to the large but quiet gathering of assembled media. President Trump had issued a Diwali greetings message on Nov. 7.

Trump announced at the ceremony that he had nominated Neomi Rao, current administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs to fill the seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, vacated by now Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

After delivering his remarks, the President proceeded to light the Diya with a white taper candle. He asked several participants to make remarks, starting with Seema Verma, then Neomi Rao, who received applause for her just-announced nomination.

After lighting the Diya, Trump called on several Indian-American officials in his administration to speak, including Administrator of Medicare and Medicaid Services, Seema Verma, Neomi Rao, and Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai.

“I’m grateful to have numerous Americans of Indian and South East Asian heritage who fulfill critical roles across my administration and they’ve done an incredible job. Many of them are here today,” Trump said, naming several of them.

“The United States has deep ties to the nation of India and I am grateful for my friendship with Prime Minister Modi. We’re trying very hard to make better trade deals with India. But, they’re very good traders. They’re very good negotiators. You would say right. The best. So we’re working. And it’s moving along,” said Trump.

India was represented at the event by its Ambassador Navtej Sarna and his wife Dr. Avina Sarna, and Pratik Mathur, first secretary and special assistant to the Ambassador. Ambassador Sarna thanked the President for honoring India and the Indian community in the U.S. who feel “very welcome” and have integrated with American society. “I think, we are looking at one of the best times we ever had in India US relationship,” Sarna said. “I think, that’s true. Very close, than ever before,” the President emphasized.

President Donald Trump, while officiating at this second Diwali at the White House, said the United States and India formed a bulwark against conflicts and stood for peace, that Prime Minister Modi was a “best” friend, and that America was “blessed” to have so many Indian-Americans calling this nation their home.

In an almost 8-minute speech before lighting the traditional lamp in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Trump also announced the nomination of Indian-American Neomi Rao, to fill the vacant seat on the DC Circuit, vacated by now Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

“India is the world’s largest democracy and the relationship between our two countries connect as a bulwark for freedom, prosperity, and peace. As we light the Diya in the White House we are joined by in a fellowship with all of those who light lamps in their own home, cities and places of worship,” Trump said, adding, “America is a land of faith and we are truly fortunate to have these wonderful traditions woven into the tapestry of our national life. And that is true.”

“On behalf of the American people, I wish everyone celebrating here, well all over our country, our land, great United States and around the world, a happy and joyful Diwali,” the President said, following with lighting the lamp.

The list of White House invitees provided by the White House, included top White House officials including Ivanka Trump, advisor to the President; Deputy National Security Advisor Mira Ricardel; Principal Deputy Press Secretary Raj Shah; Director of the Office of Public Liaison Justin Clark; recently appointed Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs Neomi Rao, who President Trump announced, has been nominated to fill the seat of Judge Kavanaugh; Director for India and Indian Ocean, National Security Council Basant Sanghara; Director for India, National Security Council Jennifer Wethey; Senior Advisor to the Deputy Director of Management, Office of Management and Budget Neal Patel; Policy Advisor, Office of the Senior Counselor Pranay Udutha; and Air Force Technical (TSgt) Sergeant Dinesh Sheonath from the White House Military Office.

Other Trump administration appointees also on the list included Manisha Singh, acting under secretary at the State Department; Seema Verma, administrator of the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services; Uttam Dhillon, acting administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration; Ajit Pai, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission; Neil Chatterjee, chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; Dimple Shah, assistant secretary for International Engagement of the Department of Homeland Security; Bimal Patel, deputy assistant secretary, Financial Stability Oversight Council, Department of the Treasury; Vanila Singh, chief medical officer for the Department of Health and Human Services; Pradeep Belur, chief of staff of the Small Business Administration; Gopal Khanna, director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality at the Department of Health and Human Services; Asheesh Agarwal, general counsel of the Social Security Administration; Stacy Amin, chief counsel of the Food and Drug Administration; Arjun Garg, chief counsel of the Federal Transit Administration at the Department of Transportation; Rajive Mathur, deputy commissioner and Systems/Chief Info Officer at the Social Security Administration; Gurjeet Guram, senior advisor, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; and Lathika Thomas, senior counselor in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice.

The first White House Diwali celebration was held in 2003 in the Bush Admin and has become a tradition since then, though in 2009, President Barack Obama, was the first president to actually attend the event in person, and lighting the ceremonial lamp in the East room of the White House, when the event was attended by about 200 guests. In 2013, First Lady Michelle Obama celebrated Diwali in the East Room. She also took part in a Bollywood dance with local students in the State Dining Room. In 2017 President Trump celebrated his first Diwali with U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, senior officials from his administration and a small group of Indian Americans.

Celebrating Diwali has become somewhat of a tradition in other branches of government, including the Pentagon and the State Department, as well as on Capitol Hill, where a host of lawmakers from both Houses and parties, attend, most of them belonging to the Congressional Caucus for India and Indian Americans, the largest country-caucus on Capitol Hill.

AAPI-QLI Celebrates Culture, Heritage, Achievements & Contributions of Indian American Community at Diwali Gala on Long Island

November 17, 2018 Ajay GhoshCommunity 0

(Long Island, NY: November 14th, 2018) “Tonight, our coming together here as members and supporters of AAPI-QLI, is a way of celebrating the achievements, contributions of our Indian American community, and cherish our ancient and rich cultural heritage,” said Dr. Jagdish K Gupta, President of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, Queens and Long Island Chapter (AAPI-QLI) in his welcome address.

“We are here tonight to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, the festival of the celebration of the victory of goodness over evil,” Dr. Gupta, a practicing Gastroenterologist, serving the community for over 40 years, told the audience at the annual Diwali gala at the magnificent Leonard’s Palazzo on Long Island on November 4, 2018.

The annual Diwali event organized under the leadership of Dr. Gupta, Dr. Ajay Lodha, Chair BOT, Dr. Raj Bhayani, Chairman of function and Executive Committee of AAPI-QLI, attended by over 300 guests, including AAPIQLI members, physicians, sponsors, community leaders and Crème de la crème of Indian Community, was in every sense a celebration of the true spirit of Joy and happiness during the festive season of Diwali.

Dr. Ajay Lodha, past national President of AAPI, in his address, lauded the many achievements of the Indian Americans. “Tonight, as proud members of the AAPI-QLI, the largest and most active Chapter of national AAPI, we are celebrating the achievements of our community and our many contributions to the diverse society in New York and Long Island area.”

Dr Naresh Parikh, AAPI President graced the occasion as Guest of Honor and Honorable Ambassador Shree Sandeep Chakravorty, Consul General of New York was the Chief Guest. In his address, Dr. Parikh described AAPI-QLI as the most vibrant, transformative and politically active Chapter among all AAPI chapters in the nation.” Dr. Parikh referred to the fact that Indian American Physicians serve every 7th patient in the nation and contribute enormously the healthcare industry of the United States.

At the gala, two very dynamic and young physician achievers, Drs. Preeti and Nilesh Mehta, were recognized for their humane, state of the art services to the residents of Queens, Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Also, AAPI-QLI recognized Nargis Dutt Cancer Foundation for its decades long services, relieving and supporting the poorest and needy cancer patients and their families in India for over 37 years. Ramesh Goel, MBA, a simple, down to earth community leader, was recognized for his services to many religious and professional Alumni organizations.

Earlier, Diwali festival celebrations began with the traditional, Deva Shri Ganesha recital and dance followed by invocation with Shankh-naad and Shlokas by Pandit, Dixit Ji and participation in lamp lighting ceremony by the entire audience. The celebrations came to a close with amazing dance performance followed by extravaganza of delicious food and custom designed Venetian Dessert show.

AAPIQLI, one of the largest chapters of national AAPI, has been serving 800 member physicians since 1995, providing continuing medical education, charity, and discussing the state of the art topics in healthcare, wealth management and practice management.

AAPI QLI has grown rapidly in membership and has been well accepted and appreciated by all local and national professional organizations. From the very beginning the leadership put heavy emphasis on transparency and the democratic process, which is the main ingredient for its enormous success.

The Mission of AAPI Queens and Long Island has been to represent the interests of all physicians of Indian Origin in the area including providing Continuous Medical Education (CME) and engaging in charitable activities for the benefit of the larger community in the New York region.

Diwali and Annakut Celebrated at BAPS Shri Swaminaryan Mandirs across North America

November 17, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: A glittering array of twinkles filled the night as traditional candles were lit by devotees. The ancient tradition of lighting candles, or divos, during Diwali symbolizes the transition from darkness to light. While the divos lit on Diwali erase physical darkness, the festival’s rich traditions and rituals go deeper – inviting individuals to make efforts in removing darkness in the forms of anger, envy, greed, arrogance, and resentment. Diwali presents a time to reflect and introspect.

The five days of Diwali (including the Hindu New Year) are rich in cultural traditions and rituals that symbolize new beginnings and a renewed commitment to family. The bright colors of Rangoli (intricate designs made of colored powder), the lighting of divos, and the elaborate variety of vegetarian foods offered to God (in a display called an Annakut), all mark a renewal of the good within and the goodwill towards everything around us. Diwali presents Hindus with an opportunity to connect with and celebrate the traditions of their roots with great fanfare.

Offering his prayers to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, guru and current spiritual leader of BAPS, prayed for devotees around the world for continued personal, and professional growth in this new year. Mahant Swami Maharaj took the occasion of Diwali to remind individuals and families about the importance of leading spiritually-centric lives, grounded in strong values and increased attachment to God.

This year, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandirs across North America marked the auspicious festival of Diwali and its associated five days of celebrations with an elaborate Annakut, lighted divos, fireworks, and even a special children’s Diwali celebration.

For many visitors, the most popular attraction and a highlight of the festivities is the Annakut festival on the fifth day. As practiced by BAPS Swaminarayan Mandirs, the Annakut is a unique and awe-inspiring sight of devotion where hundreds of different traditional Indian foods and even some fusions with western cuisine are prepared by devotees in the community and arranged in front of the Mandir’s sacred images. In the evening, the offered dishes are served at dinner to everyone.

Vandan Shah said, “Diwali is all about good food, family gatherings, crackers, and I love it because of the excitement that fills the air when the festival nears. After coming to the Diwali Celebrations at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Robbinsville, I felt like I was in India. I experienced Indian culture while getting a taste of fine Indian cuisine. I truly felt at home.”

“Being away from India, I brought my children to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Edison, NJ so they can learn about Diwali and our rich tradition”, said, Dinesh Prajapati.

In addition to the Annakut, the BAPS’ Diwali celebrations featured spiritual and cultural themed events, which engaged both children and adults, in order to bring positive energy into the New Year. Furthermore, visitors and members learned about scriptural events related to Diwali, and observed traditions such as rangolis and other traditional forms of decorations. Finally, all children were invited to participate in a children’s fair and Kids Diwali Celebration which included food, games and fun activities. Attractions included a fireworks display.

The celebrations were open to all. Visitors participated in celebration activities, offered prayers for new beginnings and had the opportunity to taste in the delicious offerings of the Annakut.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a worldwide spiritual and humanitarian organization that is dedicated to community service, peace, and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families, and individuals. Through various spiritual and humanitarian activities, BAPS endeavors to develop better citizens of tomorrow with high esteem for their roots and culture. Its 3,300 international centers support these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is free of addictions as well as morally, ethically and spiritually pure. For more details, please visit www.baps.org.

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he was appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Under his leadership, BAPS grew into an international spiritual and humanitarian organization with over 3,300 centers worldwide. He dedicated his life to the well-being of others, traveling throughout the world to foster love, peace, harmony, righteousness, faith in God, and service to humanity. With genuine care and compassion, he reached out to all members of society irrespective of class, color, or age. Recognized and respected as one of India’s greatest spiritual teachers, he lived by and promoted the principle: “In the joy of others, lies our own.”

GOPIO International hosts 2nd Health Summit – a Resounding Success – “Health Experts Presentations relevant to the Indian Diaspora”

November 17, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

New York City, N.Y. – November 8, 2018 – The Health Council of Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) International (www.gopio.net), in partnership with the New York Consulate General of India hosted a full house of attendees for “A Health Summit for the Indian Diaspora” on Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Consulate General of India, 3 East 64thStreet, New York, NY. The Summit was inaugurated by New York Consul General of India Sandeep Chakravorty and Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO International. The event concluded with an award presentation to Mr. Ashook Ramsaran, former president of GOPIO for his service to GOPIO, followed by a Networking Reception.

GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham who closely worked with GOPIO Health Council team to put together the Health Summit said in his welcome address, “The goal of GOPIO Health Council is to improve the health of people of Indian origin by raising awareness of current and emerging health issues affecting them, and by promoting preventive practices and sharing information to better manage chronic diseases.” Well documented medical data suggests that people from the Indian subcontinent are at a higher risk to develop Diabetes and Heart Disease than the rest of the American population. Hence the goal of this workshop was to educate the PIOs (People of Indian Origin) on their individual risk of developing Diabetes and Heart Disease, and more importantly, how to manage these risk factors to improve their overall health. “Towards that goal, we want to educate our community about treatment and prevention of diseases using modern medicine and alternative medicine, as well as to improve health and wellness by nutritious supplements, yoga and meditation,” Dr. Abraham added.

Ambassador Sandeep Chakrovorty set the stage for the Summit with his remarks, “There is so much confusion regarding health practices – what advice to take, what to do or avoid, what diet to adopt, or fitness to practice etc. with so much changing literature on health topics.” His comments resonated with the audience, who shared this same dilemma. He hoped that “some of the confusion we face would be resolved through the summit’s panel discussions, and the day long proceedings would result in specific recommendations and clarity on health practices.” He commended GOPIO’s initiative for the welfare of the Indian Diaspora and encouraged continuing discussions on such beneficial matters.

Moderated by GOPIO Health Council Chair Dr. Tushar Patel, the panel of health experts included key note speaker Rahul Shukla, President/CEO of S.S. Technologies and Shukla Medical; and guest speaker Hitesh Bhatt, Founder/CTO Bhatt Foundation and CCS Technology Solutions. Renowned speakers and specialists from the Tri State area shared their expertise and provided practical tips on managing one’s health and wellness, especially in the prevention of heart disease and diabetes.

The health and wellness panelists included Dr. Meena Murthy – Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Specialist; Dr. Shankar Iyer – Oral Health; Dr. Anurag Pande – VP Sabinsa Corp.; Dr. Ravindra Amin – Geriatric Psychiatrist; Varsha Singh – Nurse Practitioner; Binny Talati – Physical Therapist; Dr. Vasudev Makhija – past President NJ Psychiatric Association; Dr. Ketan Vaidya – Internist; Uma Swaminathan – Healing with Herbs; Jaya Jaya Myra – Natural Lifestyle Expert; Dr. Bajrang Agarwal – Co-Founder, Dockedin Telehealth; and Ruchika Lal – NY Art of Living. Panels were moderated by GOPIO International officers, namely Dr. Asha Samant; Dr. Tushar Patel; Ram Gadhavi; and Dr. Rajeev Mehta.

In his remarks, Dr. Tushar Patel said, “It is important to get early screening and timely intervention for chronic diseases, so long term complications can be reduced and healthy lifestyles can be lived.”

Panelists Dr. Vasudev Makhija and Dr. Ravindra Amin, emphasized that getting timely help for mental health issues is very vital for successful outcome. There is no physical health without mental health and the stigma about mental health need to be eliminated in Indian diaspora, so people can live a healthy physical and emotional life.

Dr. Shankar Iyer said, “Oral health is very important and all should get a routine dental checkups and preventive dental care since he overall, physical health is dependent on good oral hygiene and maintenance especially for people with chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.”

Dr. Meena Murthy said that self-management of diabetes is very important to live healthier life style. Regular exercise, diet and life style modifications and regular checkup of blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c are the key factors to live a productive life for people with diabetes.

Insightful health and wellness topics included diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, oral health, osteoporosis, emotional health, successful aging, life style modifications, joint disorders, medication management, alternative medicine, herbal remedies, access to care via tele-health, meditation, yoga breathing to reduce stress, and wisdom to handle mind and emotions. The audience was impressed by the quality of the presentations and engaged in the interactive sessions during lunch, coffee breaks and networking reception.

Grand sponsors for this summit were Sabinsa Corporation, Bhatt Foundation and S.S. White Technologies. Supporting organizations included JnJ Printing, Indian Health Camp of New Jersey and GOPIO Chapters of Central Jersey, Connecticut and New York.

The first such Health Summit was organized by GOPIO Health Council in 2010 in New York City. In response to the positive interactions and feedback GOPIO plans to organize similar seminars and workshops through its chapters all over the world.

GOPIO – Global Organization of People of Indian Origin is a non-partisan, not-for-profit, secular organization. GOPIO’s volunteers are committed to enhancing cooperation and communication between NRIs/PIOs, building bonds, friendships, alliances, and the camaraderie of citizens and colleagues alike. GOPIO volunteers believe that when they help network the global Indian community, they facilitate making tomorrow a better world for the Indian Diaspora.

GOPIO publishes a very informative monthly newsletter. Interested persons can receive free of charge at www.gopio.net

Federation of Indian Associations Chicago elects Ninad Daftari as President

November 17, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: The Federation of Indian Associations Chicago, (FIA Chicago) will be celebrating its 10th year anniversary in 2019. The Annual Board Meeting was held at Granite City, Schaumburg on November 4, 2018. This year FIA Chicago unanimously elected its new leader Ninad Daftari and the new board.

The event was presided by Founding Members Sunil Shah, Onkar Sangha, Sunny Kullar, Rita Singh, Mukesh Shah, Dhitu Bhagwakar and Current President Neil Khot. President Elect Ninad Daftari will spearhead the team for the year 2019 with the help of Executive Vice Presidents Hitesh Gandhi and Payal Shah and the entire board which include Vice Presidents Dr. Kamal Patel, Jatinder Bedi, Aishwarya Sharma, Gurmeet Singh Dhalwan and Altaf Bukhari, Secretary Harsh Shah, Treasurer Saurin Thakkar, Joint Secretary Abir Maru, Joint Treasurer Dharmesh Gandhi, Cultural Secretary Hema Shastri, Directors : Shital Daftari, Chetan Patel, Nirav Shah, Ila Patel Chaudhri, Hansal Patel, Geetaanjali Advani Maru, Vibha Rajput, Urmil Patel, Ganesh Kar, Swaranjit Singh and Prabh Khaira.

The incoming President Ninad Daftari plans to take the organization to new heights with events planned for Celebrating India’s Republic Day, Independence Day and Cultural events like Holi and Diwali. This year FIA Chicago will also host Medical Wellness Checkup Camp, Blood Donation Drive, Food Drive and Toys of Kids during the holiday season.

With the help of the Advisory Board Members Syed Hussaini (WinTrust Bank), Manish Gandhi (Power Plant Services), Brij Sharma (Power Volt), Asha Oroskar (Orochem), Smita Shah (Direct Floors), Pradeep Shukla (CPA) and Neal Patel (MedStar), FIA Chicago plans to take on projects like Job Fair, Entrepreneurship camps and Youth Leadership Development Skill Camps.

FIA Chicago was founded to bring Cultural awareness to the Chicagoland area and has now grown to serve the community by hosting many events for the community and helping the community grow and become one.

The NFIA 2018 Convention goes to the Capital, Washington DC area

November 17, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Delegates from different states of US to meet at the Hotel Sheraton Tysons, Virginia for a 3-day Convention.

The 20th convention of the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA) will be held at Hotel Sheraton Tyson in Northern Virginia on November 16th and 17th. The Convention will start with a While House Briefing on Friday, Nov. 16th afternoon followed by followed by a reception at the Indian Embassy hosted by Indian Ambassador. The Convention theme is NFIA & Indo – Americans, WE’RE GOING PLACES.

The convention will start with an Welcome Reception and Inaugural Dinner for the delegates and the VIP guests at the Sheraton Tyson. Conference sessions (see details below) will be held whole day on Nov. 17th. The convention will end with an Awards Banquet on November 17th evening where NFIA will honor nine Indian Americans for their outstanding contributions in their chosen field and for community service. NFIA General body meeting will be held on Nov. 18th where NFIA policies are adopted and new officers are elected.

Saturday 17th November 9:00 am – 5:00 pm will begin with the Panel of the Past Presidents of NFIA chaired by NFIA Founder President Dr. Thomas Abraham. The Panel will deliberate Mobilizing the Indian Community in the US, moderator of the Panel being the current NFIA president Mr. Sudip Gorakshakar. Several seminars sessions throughout the day will follow with topics on Health and Wellness, Trade and Commerce, on an NGO Snehalya, a Sitar Workshop, a Session on Art of Living, an Entrepreneurs Workshop. See more details below.

The seminars would culminate with a Technology 20/20 Summit. The evening with start with a Cocktail/Social hour and Grand Awards Dinner Banquet, NFIA National Awardees’ Felicitation, Cultural Program, Fashion Show and a Concert. NFIA General Body Meeting will be held on Sunday, Nov. 18thwhere after passage of President’s and Treasurer’s report, election will be held which will be followed by the New NFIA Board Meeting. Lunch will follow. For registration, visit www.nfia.net.

IALI donates generously to The INN for Diwali Food Drive

November 17, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The India Association of Long Island (IALI) has been partners with The Interfaith Nutrition Network (INN) in fighting hunger on Long Island for the past 23 years to help those in need across Long Island.

Peter Bheddah, started the Diwali Food Drive, all those years ago, and it quickly gained momentum. Mr. Dev Ratnam joined the INN Board, to continue the charitable work. IALI presidents over the years and their Executive committees and members all pitched in with donations of food, medications, clothes and of course money, to help those in need and want across Long Island. IALI has helped to bring food to 800,000 to hungry and homeless Long Islanders. IALI is close to reaching 1,000,000 meals very soon.

On Sunday, November 11, 2018, this year, for the Diwali food drive, IALI gave a very generous check of $17000/- to INN to continue this exemplary service. This amount was accumulated by donations by IALI members and Major sponsors Mr. Peter Beddah, Dr. Kishore Kunchum, Mrs. Indu Chhabra and Friends and Mr. Raj & Jyoti Gandhi.

The Festive Diwali event took place at the Mary Brennan Inn, Hempstead. The program was admirably Emceed by Dr. Bhavani Srinivasan. A ceremonial lamp was lit by the dignitaries present, Mr. Tony Santino, former Supervisor Town of Hempstead, Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, Mr and Mrs. Bheddah, Mrs. Indu Chhabra, Mr. Dev Ratnam, IALI President Gunjan Rastogi, IALI Officers and Executive Council members. Mrs. Aruna Saxena was honored for being the Chair of Diwali Food Drive for last six years.

Young Tara Chaudhary gave a very lovely and lively dance recital and Mrs. Jyoti Gupta and Amita Karwal sang a beautiful song.

The IALI President, Mrs. Gunjan Rastogi, along with Past Presidents, Mr. Satpal Malhotra, Mrs. Indu Jaiswal, and Dr. Bhavani Srinivasan, members of the executive committee, Mr. Lalit Aery, Mr. Gobind Gupta, Mr. Vimal Goyal and the standing Chairs, Mrs. Amita Karwal, Mrs. Jyoti Gupta, Mr. Rajeev Chaudhary and Mrs. Saroj Aery and Mrs. Jaya Bahadkar were all present. A large number of IALI members were in attendance for the celebration including Mr. Ved Behl, Mr. & Mrs. Sood long time supporters of Diwali Food Drive.

Hate Crimes Increase for the Third Consecutive Year, F.B.I. Reports

November 17, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Hate crime reports increased 17 percent last year from 2016, the F.B.I. said on Tuesday, rising for the third consecutive year as heated racial rhetoric and actions have come to dominate the news.

Of the more than 7,100 hate crimes reported last year, nearly three out of five were motivated by race and ethnicity, according to the annual report. Religion and sexual orientation were the other two primary motivators.

In addition to the tense political climate, the increase also points to a growing awareness among various law enforcement agencies of the importance of identifying and reporting hate crimes to the F.B.I.

Reporting hate crimes to the F.B.I. is currently voluntary. Last year, roughly a thousand more agencies submitted data than those that did the previous year.

Hate crimes remain vastly underreported. Only 12.6 percent of the agencies in the F.B.I. report indicated that hate crimes had occurred in their jurisdictions in 2017. Agencies as large as the Miami and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Departments reported zero.

“I wouldn’t feel too confident in those numbers,” said Sim J. Singh, the senior advocacy manager for the Sikh Coalition, a civil rights organization. Data shows that hate crime victims often do not trust that reporting will help them.

There are agencies taking steps to enhance law enforcement reporting. Will Johnson, the chief of police in Arlington, Tex., and a vice president of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, said that some departments lack the proper training for identifying and reporting hate crimes. Last year, the chiefs’ association passed a resolution encouraging law enforcement agencies to collect, analyze and report on hate crimes.

“More importantly than anything else is the effective conversation and heightened awareness in communities that this is important and that government institutions are prepared to respond effectively to crimes that victimize broadly across our communities,” Chief Johnson said.

The F.B.I. said it planned to train law enforcement officers next year on how to do a better job of identifying and reporting bias-motivated incidents. The Justice Department has also launched a new website on hate crimes.

“This report is a call to action — and we will heed that call,” Matthew Whitaker, the acting attorney general, said in a statement. “The Department of Justice’s top priority is to reduce violent crime in America, and hate crimes are violent crimes. They are also despicable violations of our core values as Americans.”

Much of the country’s political discourse in recent years has been fueled by deep racial divisions. Controversies have ignited this week over a photo of high school students flashing what appears to be a Nazi salute, and a joke by Cindy Hyde-Smith, a white United States senator from Mississippi who ran against Mike Espy, who is black. Ms. Hyde-Smith said that she would attend a public hanging if a supporter asked her to.

The offenses in hate crimes vary in severity from murder to vandalism. A spate of seemingly racially motivated incidents grabbed headlines last year, including a white man’s fatal stabbing of two men who were protecting a woman wearing a hijab in Portland, Ore., and the killing of a white anti-racism protester in Charlottesville, Va., by a white supremacist who plowed into a crowd with a car.

Black people accounted for nearly half of hate crime victims last year, according to the F.B.I. report. Of those targeted based on religion, 58 percent were Jewish. Last month in Kentucky, a white man accused of fatally shooting two black people at a supermarket had tried to enter a predominantly black church before the killing; in Pittsburgh, a white man charged with killing 11 worshipers at a synagogue had taken to social media to accuse a Jewish organization that helps to resettle migrants of bringing “invaders” to “kill our people.”

“For the N.A.A.C.P., we began to see this during the presidential election in 2015,” said Derrick Johnson, the president of the organization. “The level of tribalism that was being fueled by presidential candidates, the acceptance of intolerance that has been condoned by President Trump and many others across the country has simply emboldened individuals to be more open and notorious with their racial hatred.”

Pope Previews Second World Day of the Poor

November 16, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

“Next Sunday the Second World Day of the Poor will be celebrated with many initiatives of evangelization, of prayer and of sharing,” Pope Francis said November 11, 2018, after praying the noonday Angelus with a crowd of 20,000 in St. Peter’s Square. “Also here, in St. Peter’s Square, a health post has been set up, which will offer care for a week to all those who are in difficulty. I hope that this Day will foster increasing attention to the needs of the least, the marginalized and the hungry.”

MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS

This poor man cried and the Lord heard him

«This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him» (Ps 34:7). The words of the Psalmist become our own when we are called to meet the different conditions of suffering and marginalization lived out by very many of our brothers and sisters whom we are accustomed to label generically as “the poor”. The Psalmist is not extraneous to suffering; quite the contrary. He has direct experience of poverty and yet transforms it into a song of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord. This Psalm is an opportunity for us today, immersed as we are in the many different forms of poverty, to understand who are the true poor on whom we are called to look upon in order to hear their cry and recognise their needs.

We are told, first of all, that the Lord listens to the poor who cry to Him and is good to those who seek refuge in him, their hearts broken by sadness, loneliness and exclusion. The Lord listens to those who are downtrodden in their dignity and yet have the strength to look up in order to receive light and comfort. He listens to those who are persecuted in the name of a false justice, oppressed by policies unworthy of the name and intimidated by violence. And yet they know that they have their Saviour in God. What emerges from this prayer is above all the sense of abandonment to, and trust in, a Father who listens and is welcoming. It is on the same wavelength as these words that we can better understand what Jesus proclaimed with the beatitude «Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).

Such is this unique experience, in many ways undeserved and impossible to express in full, that we nevertheless feel the desire to communicate it others, first of all to those who, like the Psalmist, are poor, rejected and marginalized. In fact, no-one can feel excluded from the Father’s love, especially in a world which often elevates riches as the primary objective and leads us to isolation.

Psalm 34 uses three verbs to characterize the attitude of the poor man and his relationship with God. First of all, “to cry”. The condition of poverty cannot be expressed in a word, but becomes a cry which crosses the heavens and reaches God. What does the cry of the poor express if not their suffering and solitude, their delusion and hope? We can ask ourselves how it is that this cry, which rises to the presence of God, is unable to penetrate our ears and leaves us indifferent and impassive? On a day like the World Day of the Poor we are called to make a serious examination of conscience in order to understand if we are really capable of hearing them.

What we need in order to recognise their voice is silence in which to listen. If we speak too much ourselves, we will be unable to hear them. Often I am afraid that many initiatives, by themselves meritorious and necessary, are intended more to please those who undertake them than to really acknowledge the cry of the poor. If this is the case, when the cry of the poor rings out our reaction is incoherent and we are unable to empathize with their condition. We are so entrapped in a culture which obliges us to look in the mirror and to pamper ourselves that we believe that a gesture of altruism is sufficient without compromising ourselves directly.

The second verb is “to answer”. The Lord, the Psalmist tells us, not only listens to the cry of the poor, but He answers it. His answer, as attested by the whole history of salvation, is an all-loving sharing in the condition of the poor. It was so when Abram expressed to God his desire for an offspring, notwithstanding that he and his wife Sarah were old in years and had no children (cfr. Genesis 15:1-6). It happened when Moses, through a bush which burned without being consumed, received the revelation of the divine name and the mission to free his people from Egypt (Exodus 3:1-15). And this answer is confirmed throughout the wandering of Israel in the desert, when it was bitten by hunger and thirst (cfr. Exodus 16:1-6; 17:1-7) and when it fell into wretchedness of the worst kind, that is, unfaithfulness to the covenant and idolatry (cfr. Exodus 32:1-14).

God’s answer to the poor is always an intervention of salvation in order to heal the wounds of body and soul, restore justice and assist in beginning anew to live life with dignity. God’s answer is also an appeal in order that those who believe in Him can do the same within the limitations of their human nature. The World Day of the Poor wishes to be a small answer which the whole Church, spread throughout the world, gives to the poor of every type and in every land lest they think that their cry has gone unheard. Probably, it is like a drop of water in the desert of poverty; and yet it can be a sign of sharing for those who are in need, that they might experience the active presence of a brother or a sister. It is not delegated power of which the poor have need, but the personal involvement of as many hear their cry. The concern of believers in their regards cannot be limited to a kind of assistance – as useful and as providential as this may be in the beginning – but requires a «loving attentiveness» (Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii gaudium , 199) which honours the person as such and seeks out his best interests.

The third verb is “to free”. The poor of the Bible live with the certainty that God intervenes in their favour to restore their dignity. Poverty is not brought on by itself, but is caused by selfishness, pride, greed and injustice. These are evils as old as man himself, but also sins in which the innocents are caught up, leading to consequences on the social level which are dramatic. God’s liberating action is an act of salvation towards those who manifest their sadness and distress to Him. The prison of poverty is broken open by the power of God’s intervention. Many of the Psalms narrate and celebrate this history of salvation which is mirrored in the personal life of the poor: «For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried to him» ( Psalm 22:25). To be able to contemplate God’s countenance is a sign of His friendship, His proximity, and His salvation. «Thou hast seen my affliction, thou hast taken heed of my adversities … thou hast set my feet in a broad place» ( Psalm 31:8-9). To offer the poor a “broad space” is to liberate them from the “snare of the fowler” ( Psalm 91:3) and subtract them from the trap hidden on their path, in order that they might proceed expeditiously and look serenely upon life. God’s salvation takes the form of hand held out to the poor which is welcoming, offers protection and allows them to experience the friendship which they need. It is beginning with this concrete and tangible proximity that a genuine path of liberation emerges. «Each individual Christian and every community is called to be an instrument of God for the liberation and promotion of the poor, and for enabling them to be fully a part of society. This demands that we be docile and attentive to the cry of the poor and to come to their aid» ( Evangelii gaudium, 187).5. I find it moving to know that many of the poor have identified themselves with Bartimaeus from St. Mark’s Gospel. Bartimaeus, a blind man, «was sitting by the roadside to beg» (verse 46) and, having heard that Jesus was passing by, «began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me”» (verse 47). «Many rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more» (verse 48). The Son of God heard his cry: «“What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Master, let me receive my sight”» (verse 51). This Gospel narrative makes visible what in the Psalm is announced as a promise. Bartimaeus is a poor man who finds himself deprived of fundamental capacities like his sight and being able to work for his living. How many paths today also lead to forms of precariousness! The lack of basic means of subsistence, marginalization stemming from a reduced capacity to work owing to ill-heath, the various forms of social slavery, notwithstanding the progress made by humankind … How many poor people today are like Bartimaeus, sitting by the roadside and searching for the meaning of their existence! How many of them ask themselves why they have fallen so far and how they can escape! They are waiting from someone to come up and say: «Take heart; rise, he is calling you» (verse 49).

Unfortunately, often the opposite happens and the poor are reached by voices rebuking them and telling them to shut up and to put up. These voices are out of tune, often determined by a phobia of the poor, considered not only as destitute, but also as bearers of insecurity and instability, detached from the habits of daily life and, consequently, to be rejected and kept afar. The tendency is to create a distance between them and us, without realizing that by so doing we distance ourselves from the Lord Jesus who does not reject the poor, but calls them to Him and consoles them. The words of the Prophet concerning the style of life proper to believers is most apt in this case: «to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free and to break every yoke … to share bread with the hungry and bring the homeless and poor into the house … to cover the naked» (Isaiah 58:6-7). Deeds such as these allow sin to be forgiven (cfr. 1 Peter 4:8), justice to pursue its path and, when it is us to cry to the Lord, ensure that he will answer and say: here I am! (Isaiah 58:9).

The poor are the first to whom it is given to recognise the presence of God and to testify to His proximity in their lives. God remains faithful to his promise, and even in the darkness of the night does not withhold the warmth of his love and consolation. However, in order to overcome the overwhelming condition of poverty, it is necessary that the poor perceive the presence of brothers and sisters who show concern for them and who, by opening the door of their hearts and lives, make them feel like friends and family. Only in this way can we discover «the saving power at work in their lives» and «put them at the centre of the Church’s pilgrim way» (Evangelii gaudium, 198).

On this World Day we are invited to give concreteness to the words of the Psalm: «The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied» (Psalm22:27). We know that in the Temple of Jerusalem, after the sacrificial rite, a banquet took place. It was this experience which enriched the first World Day of the Poor in many Dioceses last year. Many people found the warmth of a home, the joy of a celebration meal and the solidarity of those who wished to share the table in a simple and brotherly way. I would like that this year and in the future this World Day be celebrated in the spirit of joy for the rediscovery of our capacity for getting together. Praying together as a community and sharing a Sunday meal is an experience which takes us back to the earliest Christian community, described by St. Luke the Evangelist with all his originality and simplicity: «And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. […] And all who believed were together and had all things in common; and they sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all, as any had need» (Acts 2:42.44-45).

Numerous initiatives are undertaken every day by the Christian community in order to give a sign of neighbourliness and relief in the face of the many forms of poverty which are before our eyes. Often it is the case that cooperation with other enterprises, moved not not by faith but by human solidarity, enable us to give assistance which by ourselves would have been impossible. Recognising that the in the immense world of poverty our capacity for action is limited, weak and insufficient leads us to reach out to others so that reciprocal cooperation can reach its objective in a more effective way. We are inspired by faith and by the imperative of charity, but we also know how to recognise other forms of assistance and solidarity which are characterized, in part, by our same objectives, albeit that we do not neglect our proper role which is to lead everyone to God and to holiness. Dialogue among the different forms of experience and humility in giving freely of our collaboration, without seeking the limelight, is an adequate and fully evangelical response which we can all give.

In the service of the poor, the last thing we need is a battle for first place. Instead we should recognise with humility that it is the Spirit which solicits from us actions which are a sign of God’s answer and proximity. When we find a way to draw near to the poor, we know that the first place belongs to Him who has opened our eyes and our heart to conversion. The poor have no need of protagonists, but of a love which knows how to hide and forget the good which it has done. The true protagonists are the Lord and the poor. He who desires to serve is an instrument in God’s hands in order to make manifest His presence and salvation. St. Paul recalls this when writing to the Christians of Corinth, who used to compete amongst themselves for charisms by seeking the most prestigious: «The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you”» (1 Corinthians 12;21). The Apostle makes an important point when he observes that it is the parts of the body which appear to be weaker which are more necessary (cfr. verse 22); and those which «we think less honourable we invest with the greater honour, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, which our more presentable parts do not require» (verses 23-24). Thus, while Paul imparts to the community a fundamental teaching on charisms, he also educates it concerning its attitude towards its weaker and more needy members in the light of the Gospel. Far from the disciples of Christ nourishing sentiments of contempt or pietism towards the poor, they are called to honour them, giving them precedence, out of the conviction that they are a real presence of Jesus in our midst. «As you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me» (Matthew 25:40).

Here we can see how distant our way of living is from that of the world which praises, follows and imitates those who have power and riches, while at the same time marginalizing the poor and considering them a waste and an object of shame. The words of the Apostle Paul are an invitation to give evangelical fullness to solidarity with the weaker and less gifted members of the body of Christ: «If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honoured, all rejoice together» (1 Corinthians 12:26). Similarly, in the Letter to the Romans, he exhorts us: «Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly» (12:15-16). This is the vocation of the disciple of Christ; the ideal for which we must constantly strive is the increasing assimilation in us of the «mind of Jesus Christ» (Philippians 2:5).
A word of hope is the natural epilogue to which faith gives rise. Often it is the poor who undermine our indifference which is the daughter of a vision of life which is too imminent and bound up with the present. The cry of the poor is also a cry of hope which manifests the certainty of being liberated. This hope is founded upon the love of God who does not abandon those who trust in Him (cfr. Romans 8:31-39). As St. Teresa of Ávila writes in The Way of Perfection: «Poverty comprises many virtues. It is a vast domain. I affirm that whoever despises all earthly goods holds dominion over them» (2:5). It is in the measure in which we are able to discern authentic good that we become rich before God and wise in the face of ourselves and others. It is really so: in the measure in which we succeed in giving riches their right and true sense that we grow in humanity and become capable of sharing.
I invite my brother bishops, priests and, in particular, deacons, on whom hands have been laid for the service of the poor (Acts 6:1-7), as well as religious and the lay faithful – men and women – who in parishes, associations and ecclesial movements make tangible the Church’s response to the cry of the poor, to live this World Day as a special moment of new evangelization. The poor evangelize us, helping us to discover every day the beauty of the Gospel. Let us not waste this opportunity for grace. Let all of us feel on this day that we are debtors towards the poor because, stretching out our hands reciprocally one to another, a salvific encounter be created which strengthens our faith, renders our charity active and enables our hope to continue secure on the journey towards the Lord who is returning.

Vatican’s Diwali message wants Hindu-Christian bond

November 10, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture/Religion 0

People of both faiths can cultivate a culture of care and concern states Diwali message written to Hindus Christians and Hindus are bound by their belief in human dignity and share a responsibility to help those in need, said the secretary of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue in Vatican’s Diwali message this year.

Members of both faiths have a “moral duty to care for the vulnerable,” which is rooted in the belief “that we are all God’s creatures and, as a result, brothers and sisters, equal in dignity, with responsibility for one another,” Bishop Miguel Ayuso Guixot, secretary of the council, said the message released Oct. 31 by the Vatican.

“A healthy awareness of our common human condition and our moral duty toward others inspires us to promote their cause by doing all that we can to alleviate their sufferings, defend their rights and restore their dignity,” he said.

Bishop Ayuso extended his best wishes to the world’s 1.1 billion Hindus for the feast of Diwali, a three-day religious festival, which begins Nov. 7 in most parts of the world. The festival focuses on the victory of truth over lies, light over darkness, life over death and good over evil.

Those who suffer due to poverty and violence, as well as those who are “socially, religious, culturally and linguistically marginalized and excluded” are often discarded and ignored “by a society increasingly indifferent and even callous in the face of human needs and sufferings,” Bishop Ayuso wrote.

GOPIO International hosts 2nd Health Summit in New York

November 10, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

By J. Nami Kaur

The Health Council of Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) International (www.gopio.net), in partnership with the New York Consulate General of India hosted a full house of attendees for “A Health Summit for the Indian Diaspora” on Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Consulate General of India, 3 East 64^th Street, New York, NY. The Summit was inaugurated by New York Consul General of India Sandeep Chakravorty and Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO International. The event concluded with an award presentation to Mr. Ashook Ramsaran, former president of GOPIO for his service to GOPIO, followed by a Networking Reception.

GOPIO is a non-partisan, not-for-profit, secular organization. GOPIO’s volunteers are committed to enhancing cooperation and communication between NRIs/PIOs, building bonds, friendships, alliances, and the camaraderie of citizens and colleagues alike. GOPIO volunteers believe that when they help network the global Indian community, they facilitate making tomorrow a better world for the Indian Diaspora.

GOPIO publishes a very informative monthly newsletter. Interested persons can receive free of charge at www.gopio.net

Multi Ethnic Advisory Task Force Hosts 8th Annual Congressional award function with Glittering of Chicago stars

November 10, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Chicago IL: On behalf of Multi Ethnic Advisory Task Force (MEATF), I like to express my appreciation and thank so many people who worked so hard to make our 8th Annual Congressional Awards Gala a grand success. U.S. Congressman Danny K. Davis’s 7th Congressional District-Illinois’s Multi Ethnic Advisory Task Force hosted the Eighth Annual Awards Gala on Sunday October 28, 2018 at 5 pm at Meadows’s Club, Rolling Meadows, Illinois. The Annual Awards Gala attracts Elected Officials, Community Leaders, Educators, Hospital CEOs, Professionals, Businessmen and Businesswoman from all walks of life from 24 different ethnic communities. 425 prominent citizens were in attendance at the Congressional Gala.

Since last Eight Years with blessings form the Honorable Congressman Danny K Davis and under the leadership of Dr. Vijay Prabhakar who founded this Organization.

One of the highlights of this year’s Gala included the recognition of the Consul Generals of 6 countries at Chicago, “A Congressional Salute to Consulate Generals” “including the Consulate Generals of India, Japan, Turkey, China, Indonesia and Ukraine. Colorful dances from various countries and Singing made the event electrifying, exuberant and lively. Audience was really appreciating every items presented.

Attendance of our vibrant Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi from 8th Congressional District of IL made event more pleasant and successful.

One of the prominent political from India, a first female BJP Tamilnadu President, Dr. Tamilisai Soundarrajan specially took her time out of her busy schedule to receive the “International Rising Star” Award.

My special thanks to Congressman, Danny, Davis, His lovely wife Ms. Vera Davis, Congressman Raja Krishnamoothi, Our visionary leader Dr. Vijay Prabhakar, Gala Czar Dr. Zenobia Sowell, Program Chair, Clearance Beals, Banquet Chair, Vijender Doma, Communication Chair Nagendran Sripada, Mrs. Chand Nasim, Banquet co-chair, Our TV anchors Saurin Thakkar and Shirley Kalvakota, and all other MEATF team members who work so hard.

I like to extend my Congratulation to all Awardees and Award Presenters to name few, Well -known Kennedy Family, Dr, Wasiullah Khan, Chancellor of East-West University, Martino Wim Tangkar, Mr. Moti Agarwal, Sunil Shah, Hema Shastri, Dr. Xingwu Wang, Vishal Chhabria, Jayanta Mukharjee, Metin Serbest, Dr. Srinivas Reddy. Presenters;, Gerard and Hadiya Moorer, State Rep. Melissa Conyears Ervin, Alderman Jason Ervin, Dr. Barakat, Santosh Kumar, Dr. Clyde Rivers, Kevin Bailey, Shree Guruswamy and many more …

Music Moghul award was given to Mr. Dexter Dale by the first lady, a famous Singer of Chicago Padma Mehta. Her two line rendition of Bollywood romantic Song was well appreciated by the audience.

Religion-based hate crimes challenge Modi government

November 10, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

New figures show number of hate crimes are soaring since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014 plunging the country into crisis.

Hate crimes based on religion have increased since Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power four years ago and it could be major challenge for his party in the general elections due next year., according to IndiaSpend.

The study – which looked at religious hate crime cases reported in the media between January 2009 and October 2018 – revealed that 90 percent of the 254 incidents took place after Mr Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party was elected.

But because many religious hate crimes are not reported, the true number of incidents is thought to be much higher. The research found the majority of the victims were Muslims, while most of the perpetrators were Hindus, it said.

The most common reason for religious hate crimes was cow protection, as the animals are seen as sacred by Hindus who make up about 80 percent of India’s population compared to Muslims at 13 percent and Christians at 2 percent.

And the slaughtering of cows is banned in many states with groups of vigilantes operating across the country targeting people suspected of smuggling beef. Interfaith relationships and alleged religious conversions were other motivations for religious hate crimes.

India does not record religious hate crime as a separate offence but government data for communal violence shows a 28 percent increase in the number of incidents between 2014 and 2017.

India’s Prime Minister has said that state governments should punish vigilantes but critics have accused his government of boosting extremists and supporting violence against Muslims.

BJP spokesman Sudhanshu Trivedi said to the Washington Post that the government takes action if there are clashes between groups. He said that India has only seen “minor incidents” in the last four years, with no major religious riots. Trivedi said: “Our objection is that the political class and a certain section of media want to highlight the [religious] angle in order to malign the image of government. This is not happening for the first time. It has been happening for years.”

Dr. Matthew Rees of anti-persecution charity Open Doors warned the situation in India has “worsened dramatically. According to our research, last year 23,793 Christians in India were physically or mentally abused – more than the numbers abused in all the other countries of our Open Doors World watch list put together. Some 635 Indian Christians were detained without trial for faith related reasons. The situation for minorities in India has worsened dramatically due to the rise of Hindu extremism in India.”

Source: Sunday Express

AIA to celebrate its Golden Jubilee on December 1st

November 10, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The Association of Indians in America (AIA) has planned to celebrate its 50th anniversary of its birth in a grand manner the Garden City Hotel in Garden City, Long Island on Saturday, December 1. “The Association of Indians in America is the oldest grass root Indian Organization in United States of America, which was established in 1967 to help the newly arrived Indian immigrants assimilate and settle in their new adopted homeland,” Banquet Chairman Ravishankar Bhooplapur and Chair of Media Smiti Khanna, are quoted saying in a press release.

The Association of Indians in America is the oldest national association of Asian Indians in America. It was founded on August 20, 1967 after the United States Congress passed the 1965-66 Immigration Act, repealing the Asian Exclusion Act of 1917. The Constitution of the AIA was adopted in 1970 and was incorporated in 1971. AIA obtained the IRS exempt status in 1973.

AIA is the grass-root national organization of Asian Immigrants in the United States, fostered on the democratic principles of “one member one vote”, with chapters and membership spread across the United States of America. AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of Indian Heritage and American Commitment.

According to a press release, the AIA was instrumental in the resettlement of Indians who were fleeing from Uganda to escape the tyranny of Idi Amin. Since then, AIA has been a pioneer in serving the causes of the Indians in America addressing issues related to professional licensing, immigration, racial and professional discrimination, civil rights, the glass ceiling and many more.

In the past 50 years, many people of prominence have had the opportunity to be honored by the organization and speak at their annual events. These include nobel laureates such as S. Chandrasekhar in 1973, Norman E. Borlaug in 1976, Lawrence R. Klein in 1981, Peace Corps of America in 1991 and Amartya Sen in 1994; leading artists Ravi Shankar, Ustad Zakir Hussain, Amjad Ali Khan, Zubin Mehta, Ali Akbar Khan and Yehudi Menuhin; and globally acclaimed academicians Professor Jagdish Bhagwati, Margaret Meade, Professor T. N. Srinivasan, Professor Robert A. F. Thurman, just to name a few.

The most popular event that is held by AIA and was started in 1987 is their annual Diwali Celebration at South Street Seaport in New York City.

India among nations with worst record of punishing journalists’ killers

November 10, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

India remains among a handful of countries on an annual index of places with the worst records of punishing those behind the murders of journalists. The “impunity index”, prepared by the Committee to Protect Journalists, has 14 countries this year. India is one of seven countries that have been on the list every year since it was first released in 2008. Somalia, Iraq, the Philippines, Mexico, Pakistan and Russia are the others.

The organization releases the list to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, which falls on November 2. Countries are ranked on the basis of the number of unsolved murders of journalists over a decade as a percentage of their population. Those with five or more such cases make it to the index.

The 2018 list analyzed murders of journalists between September 1, 2008 and August 31, 2018. India had 18 unsolved cases in the period. Somalia, Syria and Iraq – countries ridden with conflict during the period – lead the list. South Sudan, Afghanistan, Colombia, Brazil, Bangladesh and Nigeria also figure on the index.

The Committee to Protect Journalists also measured “political will to address impunity”, based on whether governments had participated in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s impunity accountability mechanism, which seeks information on the status of investigations into journalists’ murders. Five of the 14 countries on the index, including India, did not respond to that request, the report said.

The index counts deliberate murders of journalists for their work, and not those killed in combat or while on dangerous assignments. Cases where no one has been convicted were treated as “unsolved”. The index in 2017 had 12 countries.

Sundar Pichai’s mea culpa over Google’s #MeToo moment

November 10, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity, Social Media 0

Google’s chief executive, Sundar Pichai, issued a mea culpa of sorts as its employees around the world held walkouts to protest how the company had handled sexual harassment.

Google CEO’s mea culpa: Tech company boss admits ‘we clearly didn’t live up to our expectations’ after thousands of his employees walked out across the world over sexual harassment. Google workers around the globe walked out in mass protest against the protection of Andy Rubin last week.

Android’s mobile software creator was reportedly given a $90million exit package despite facing misconduct allegations that were reported to the company before her resigned and deemed credible

Google CEO, Sundar Pichai, admits ‘we didn’t always do it right’ but says ‘we are definitely doing our best’

Rubin is accused of coercing a woman into performing oral sex on him while in a hotel room in 2013

Google has fired 48 people over sexual harassment claims in the last two years, including 13 senior people

Thousands walked out of offices in cities across North America and Europe, and some even resigned

Pichai said that sexual harassment was ‘a societal problem and Google is a large comapany’

Google’s CEO has admitted ‘we didn’t always do it right’, but insists sexual harassment is a societal problem after the tech giant paid out $90m to a sex-pest executive.

Thousands of employees took part in a mass walkout, dubbed the ‘Walkout For Real Change,’ one week after Android software creator Andy Rubin was accused of coercing a woman into performing oral sex on him in a hotel in 2013, reported by the New York Times.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai took to the stage yesterday, ‘It’s been a difficult time here,’ he told the New York Times DealBook conference. ‘There’s been anger and frustration within the company. We all feel it. I feel it too. At Google, we set a very high bar, and we clearly didn’t live up to our expectations.’

Rubin denied the allegations in a tweet, saying the article contained ‘numerous inaccuracies’ and ‘wild exaggerations’.

But Rubin is believed to have received a considerable exit package in 2014, valued at approximately $90 million, and was also loaned $14 million in 2012 to buy a seaside villa in Japan at one per cent interest.

Pichai refused to confirm there was a toxic culture and said, ‘Moments like this show that we didn’t always get it right, and so we are committed to doing better.’

Google has fired 48 people over sexual harassment in the last two years, 13 of them senior, according to the Times.

Google X director Richard DeVaul and former senior vice president Amit Singhal were also named in the Times report, as alleged perpetrators of sexual misconduct.

Pichai told the audience at the Times conference, ‘Sexual harassment is a societal problem and Google is a large company,’ and added, ‘We are definitely doing our best.’

The demonstration was the latest expression of a year-long backlash which has rocked Pichai’s tenure after he became CEO in 2015.

Last year he was the subject of intense scrutiny after he fired a software engineer who had deigned to question Google’s diversity and gender equality strategy in an internal memo.

James Damore sued the tech company in January, while Pichai said: ‘Within the company we allow for a lot of people to speak up, but we have a code of conduct.’

The demonstration helped scupper Google’s Maven project to help the U.S. military scan battlefields using drones and artificial intelligence.

Workers have also protested Google’s plans to launch a censored search engine in China, and work by Amazon and Microsoft to assist police agencies and federal immigration agents with facial recognition and other tools.

‘These people are not easily replaceable and as a result they have a significant amount of power,’ said Kade Crockford, who tracks how new technology affects civil rights for the ACLU of Massachusetts.

As the mass protest moved to the west coast, Google employees gathered in the San Francisco Bay area where the main headquarters is located in Mountain View, and Los Angeles to protest the company culture.

“Sri Guru Sai Leela” Outstanding performance by Students of Acharya Performing Arts Academy

November 3, 2018 Asian Media USACommunity 0

Students of Acharya Performing Arts Academy under the guidance and direction of teacher/Guru Vidushi Asha Adiga Acharya recreated the divine moments that occurred before 100 years through “Sri Guru Sai Leela” dance drama on Vijayadashami celebration and Shiradi Sai baba 100th Samadi celebration, which was Oct 20th Saturday around 6pm at Aurora IL Sai baba temple.

In the dance drama, the performers enacted 5 heavenly stories extracted from the ‘Holy Sai Satcharithra’. The stories in which Shiradi Sai Baba taught his miraculous lessons through practical life experience. The morals and values that we have learned from Baba stores will be ever pervading in our minds building us as wise strong and compassionate humans.

The dance drama was directed and choreographed by Vidushi Guru Asha Adiga Acharya. Dance drama was performed by Acharya performing arts academy senior dance and music disciple with a live orchestra.

Acharya performing arts academy senior disciple Khristi Blocton very well performed the role of Shiradi sai baba, Madhavilatha Gali and Sharmila Chelladurai were also one of the main dance performers in the dance drama.

In the live orchestra singing and Nattuvangam was done by Vidushi Guru Asha Adiga Acharya, Violin – Rishabh Ranganathan, Mridangam – Soham Kaje, Harmonium – Muralidhara Kaje, Tabala – Srikumar Raja.

‘The very idea of India is under attack’ – Sam Pitroda

November 3, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

“The Modi government’s actions are constantly undermining democratic institutions, and the very idea of India is under attack,” said Dr. Sam Pitroda, the Chairman of the Overseas Congress Department of AICC. He was addressing a leadership conference of Overseas Congress leaders held in New Hyde Park, New York. “Congress party always stood for inclusiveness, and bottom-up development and people of India aspire for a country they could live in peace and harmony” Mr. Pitroda added.

He told the gathering that the NRIs have always played a significant role not only in liberating the country from the colonialists but also contributing to its development by bringing together every segment of the society. He also cautioned that this is not the time to relax and a critical election is only a few months away. He urged everyone to help develop IOC as a powerful voice representing the NRIs in defense of freedom, democracy, and equal justice. He challenged the gathering to reach out to the community and bring them in as members to strengthen the organization by enrolling new members.

Dr. Sam Pitroda thanked everyone and was impressed by how much they were au courant with the political situation in India. Delegate after delegate recounted to him a litany of failures and disappointments of the present government and narrated how badly the people were affected by the Modi policies and practices. In many instances, they said, the administration was falling apart, and the prevalence of joblessness and lack of proper healthcare or educational support was seriously affecting the people. Several shared what efforts they had themselves embarked upon to boost voter growth

Dr. Pitroda assured that Shri Rahul Ji was making strong and astounding progress in reaching out and establishing a dialogue with the disgruntled people and advised them to translate these sentiments into vote strength and bring about the change that the people desperately are demanding.

In opening remarks, Mr. Harbachan Singh Secretary-General of the Organization praised the great interest that the delegates had generated and urged that this interest be turned into action items immediately. He added that the Congress wave was powerful in India and was gaining a stunning momentum progressively.

Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of Indian Overseas Congress, USA was instrumental in organizing the event. He requested everyone who has gathered to follow the advice from Mr. Pitroda and join this endeavor in creating an active IOC in the future.

Ravi Chopra hosted the get-together at his residence and in his capacity as the Chairman of the Finance Committee urged the gathering to be generous in their giving to strengthen the organization as it requires resources to meet the ongoing demand.

Vice Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress Mr. George Abraham thanked the delegates for their continuing efforts.

Phuman Singh & Tejinder Singh Gill, Senior Vice-Presidents, Gurmit Singh Mulapur, Chairman, Campaign Committee and President of Punjab Chapter, Charan Singh, President, Haryana Chapter, Dr. Dayan Naik, President, Karnataka Chapter, Shalu Chopra, Chairperson, Women’s Forum, Rajinder Dichpally, General Secretary, Sawaran Singh, former President of Haryana Chapter, Chandu Patel, Ram Gadula, Leela Maret, Jayesh Patel, Harkesh Thakur, Sonia Sodhi, R. Jayachandran and many others participated in the deliberations.

International Leaders Summit (ILS) Joined by Virginia’s Elected Official Express Sorrow Over Attack on Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh

November 3, 2018 Staff ReporterCommunity 0

The International Leaders Summit and the Commonwealth of Virginia ’s elected official Honorable David A. LaRock, express its sorrow over the attack on the Tree of Life Synagogue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where eleven worshippers were killed. The International Leaders Summit and the partners of its initiative The Jerusalem Leaders Summit, issued the following statement:

We convey our deepest condolences to the grieving families who lost loved ones in the tragic attack at The Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Jewish community across our nation and around the world. We stand with the Jewish community and affirm our shared values and principles.

The attacker’s murderous rampage shouting “all Jews must die” ought to be a wake-up call for America’s engaged stakeholders and leadership. In our free society, established under the rule of law, the evils of anti-Semitism and hatred towards any religious and ethnic groups must be addressed through robust measures. Individuals and groups fueling hate-filled rhetoric ought to be held to account.

We urge our elected leaders and our civil society to remain vigilant and to continue to strengthen the rule of law and advance our shared values and principles which protect life, liberty and private property.

Co-signers of the statement:

Honorable David A. LaRock, Member, House of Delegates, Commonwealth of Virginia

Natasha Srdoc, Co-Founder, International Leaders Summit and Jerusalem Leaders Summit

Joel Anand Samy, Co-Founder, International Leaders Summit and Jerusalem Leaders Summit

Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Executive Advisory Board Member, International Leaders Summit, President and CEO, US Info Systems of Mississippi LLC and Chairman, Mississippi State Department of Mental Health

Chris Edmonds, Executive Advisory Board Member, International Leaders Summit; Represents his heroic father, the late Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds, recognized by Yad Vashem as Righteous Among the Nations, Israel’s highest honor for non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the holocaust.

TheUNN Corporation

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