Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
e x c e l l e n c e i n j o u r n a l i s m
Vol.10 No. 50 April 21-27, 2018 80 Cents New York Edition Follow us on TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Ekall Vidyalaya Fo
Eka Foundation
oundation off USA
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TheSouthAsianTimes.info TRISTATE COMMUNITY April 21-27, 2018 3
India to retain
fastest growing
Pompeo's tweet on slur about
economy spot: IMF
By Arul Louis
Goyle raised at Senate hearing
New York: A tweet by Secretary that deals with the US
United Nations: The International Monetary Fund of State‑designate Mike Constitution, Christianity and
(IMF) says that India will retain its top spot as the Pompeo linking to a blog that the United States of America!!!"
world's fastest growing economy, helped by struc‑ made racist taunts against his He added, "Like his comrade
tural reforms and the fading of the effects of Indian‑American opponent in a (then‑President Barack) Obama,
demonetization and the new goods and services 2010 Congressional election he wouldn't give an answer,
tax system. The World Economic Outlook report has come back to haunt him in only that he was not a
released on Tuesday, said that India's growth pro‑ his Senate confirmation hear‑ Christian. This guy could be a
jections of 7.4 percent for this year and 7.8 per‑ ings. Muslim, a Hindu, a Buddhist,
cent for next year remained unchanged from the At the hearings last Thursday etc., who knows, only God, the
earlier estimates. The report kept the global in Washington, Democrat Mike Pompeo, Trumpʼs pick for US Secretary of Shadow and ... Goyle knows!
growth rate projections at 3.9 percent for this Senator Bob Menendez raised State, had run against Raj Goyle, a Kansas State One thing's for sure ... Goyle is
year and the next that was made in January. the tweet and other controver‑ Representative, in the 2010 race for Congress. not a Christian!"
"A projected increase in India's growth provide sial statements from Pompeo's Although his father was a
nent, an American (of) South of the Pompeo of the past, and
some offset to China's gradual slowdown and past and contrasted them with Muslim, Obama said he was a
Asian heritage a turban‑topper, so I'm trying to figure out
emerging Europe's return to its lower‑trend his more moderate stance Christian but some Republicans
stating that you thought it was, which one is the one that will
growth rate," the report said. before the Senate Foreign claimed he was not and contin‑
quote, 'a good read,' an article act if he gets confirmed as
China's growth rate is projected to be 6.6 per‑ Relations Committee and won‑ ually raised it.
that you tweeted that said your Secretary of State, because
cent this year and slide to 6.4 percent next year. dered which version of him was Pompeo later apologized to
opponent, quote, could be a some of the things in the past I
Meanwhile, IMF Research Director Maurice the real one. Goyle and said that his cam‑
'Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, who could never support,"
Obstfeld cautioned that a trade war could put Pompeo, the CIA Director paign had "inadvertently posted
knows'." Menendez said.
global growth at risk. He told reporters in nominated by President Trump a link to a tremendously offen‑
Pompeo made the tweet and The post that Pompeo sent
Washington that a fight over trade will not help to succeed Rex Tillerson as sive blog post". His tweet and
a similar Facebook post when links to was written by an ex‑
anyone and there will be no winners, even if some Secretary of State, needs Senate Facebook post were deleted by
he ran against Raj Goyle, a Marine, Bob Pinkstaff, who
may see some short‑term benefits. confirmation for the job and him. Issues relating to India
Kansas State Representative in tried to communalize the elec‑
The US sparked off a trade war, primarily aimed faced about four and a half and the rest of South Asia ‑‑
the 2010 race for Congress. tion by pointing out that Goyle
at China, by raising some tariffs and Beijing retali‑ hours of questioning by the except for Afghanistan ‑‑ did
Goyle, who was born in the US was not a Christian.
ated with its own set of counter tariffs. For India, panel. not figure at all during the
to immigrant doctors from He blogged that Goyle was
the report cautioned that corporate debts and Menendez recalled that he hearings on Thursday, which
India, lost the election. "just another 'turban topper'
banking sector credit quality are a drag on had tweeted a blog link "to your were focused mainly on China,
"The Pompeo I hear today, (that) we don't need in
investments. supporters calling your oppo‑ Russia and Iran.
much more different than some Congress or any political office
4 April 21-27, 2018 TURN PAGE TheSouthAsianTimes.info
May 29 for bias training after days of delay and warn‑ diaspora at the Stockholm sports. An elated Indian
ings by Western powers that University, PM Modi invoked Olympic Association (IOA)
crucial evidence had likely the achievements of pugilist Chief Narinder Dhruv Batra
Washington: Starbucks announced on been removed. M.C. Mary Kom and shuttler said the nation is on the right
Tuesday that it will close all its company‑ Saina Nehwal at the path to become a sporting
owned stores in the US for the afternoon India, Nordic nations Commonwealth Games in powerhouse.
on May 29 to train employees how to agree to deepen Australia earlier this month.
prevent racial discrimination in their cooperation Extolling the thought of India, Vandana Sharma
stores Continued from page 1 Modi, addressing a gathering honored for breaking
In the wake of outrage over the arrest External Affairs Ministry said of around 2,000 people, said: glass ceiling
of two African‑American men at one of in a statement. "They "The achievements of Mary Continued from page 1
its cof fee shops in Philadelphia last acknowledged that innovation Kom and Saina Nehwal make the Glass Ceiling Awards by
week, more than 8,000 stores will be rooms unless they are paying customers. and digital transformation our hearts swell with pride." Queens Tribune and
closed and training will be provided to They explained that they were waiting drive growth in an intercon‑ While Mary Kom won the Southwest Queens Press.
nearly 175,000 employees and incorpo‑ for a friend, who later arrived. nected world, which underpin gold in the 46‑48 kg category Other honorees included
rated into company training going for‑ Police arrested them and the footage of a growing engagement in women's boxing at the Gold Kathleen Hochul, Lieutenent
ward, according to Starbucks. which has been viewed millions of times between India and the Nordic Coast games, Nehwal walked Governor of New York (who
The curriculum will be designed "to and drawn widespread condemnation. countries," it stated. away with two golds in bad‑ was also the Keynote Speaker)
address implicit bias, promote conscious The company's CEO Kevin Johnson has "The Summit emphasized minton. and Tonya Boyd, Deputy Chief
inclusion, prevent discrimination and apologized for the incident and the cof‑ India's strong commitment to In a special gesture, Modi of New York City Fire
ensure everyone inside a Starbucks store fee giant confirmed that the Philadelphia innovation and digital initia‑ made the gathering give a Department). The gala event
feels safe and welcome," Xinhua quoted employee who called the police is no tives as key to prosperity and standing ovation to Swedish was held at Douglaston
Starbucks as saying in a statement. longer with the company. "While this is sustainable development, with Prime Minister Stefan Lofven Manor. Vandana Sharma came
The move came after the Seattle‑based not limited to Starbucks, we're commit‑ national flagship programs who was also present on the to this country as Air Indiaʼs
chain was under fire for a decision by ted to being a part of the solution," such as Make in India, Start‑ occasion. Regional Manager (Americas)
staff at one of its Philadelphia stores to Johnson said. "Closing our stores for up India, Digital India and On his part, Lofven said that in 2015 and has since helped
call the police on two African‑American racial bias training is just one step in a Clean India." more than the Prime it grow from 21 flights per
men when they did not buy anything and journey that requires dedication from Ahead of the Summit, Modi Ministers of the two countries week out of three gateways in
asked to use the restrooms. The two men every level of our company and partner‑ held separate bilateral meet‑ getting along well, it was the the US to 36 flights a week
were told they could not use the rest‑ ships in our local communities." ings with his counterparts people‑to‑people ties that mat‑ out of five gateways.
New York: To mark the International Day of Sen spoke on the importance of regimens
Yoga, Consulate General of India will be host‑ such as meditation and yoga in the cure and
ing curtain raiser events that touches on the care in Alzeimerʼs dimentia. Using case histo‑
importance of Yoga and meditation in every‑ ries from his patients and studies from some
day life. The series opened with a Book Talk of America's top level institutions he also
on Holistic Measures and Cognitive Disorders examined the benefits of music therapy, vir‑
from “Why Buddha Never Had Alzheimer's” tual reality, touch therapy and holistic medi‑
by Dr. Shuvendu Sen (speaking) and Dr. Gary cine. Dr. Kalpan also described how medita‑
Kaplan (center) at the Consulate on April tion may be able to help heal the brains of
12th. Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty people who suffer with depression, anxiety
gave the welcome remarks at the event. Dr. disorders and chronic pain.
6 April 21-27 2018 TRISTATE COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info
IN BRIEF
Over 70 films, documentaries on diverse
themes to be showcased at NYIFF
O
ver 70 films and documentaries holder, the Star", said the festival gives
focusing on diverse themes of an opportunity to audiences in New York
women's issues, gay rights, ter‑ to experience cinematic excellence ema‑
rorism and youth will be showcased at nating from the subcontinent.
the New York Indian Film Festival (NY‑ The festival will open with the US pre‑
IFF) next month, connecting artists and miere of Ravi Jadhav's Marathi language
filmmakers from the Indian subconti‑ film "Nude" and close with the New York
nent to American audiences. premiere of director Hansal Mehta's Ra‑
The 18th annual NYIFF, which will run jkummar Rao‑starrer biopic on Islamic
from May 7 to 12, will showcase 78 fundamentalist Omar Saeed Sheikh, To mark Rajasthan Day (which falls on March 30), New York State Assemblyman
films, documentaries and shorts in 11 "Omerta." Other highlights of this year's David Weprin honored three prominent community leaders of Rajasthani her‑
languages ‑ English, Hindi, Marathi, festival include a tribute to Kapoor and itage: (from left) Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, Ashok Sancheti,
Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, actor Sridevi, who passed away in Febru‑ community leader and philanthropist, and Manish Dhadda, Vice Chairman Jaipur
Tulu, Konkani, Bengali and Assamese. ary, and a retrospective of the films by Foot USA. New York State proclamations were presented to them even as former
The films will "focus on the themes of producer Ismail Merchant and director Deputy Comptroller of Nassau County Dilip Chauhan joined in.
women's issues, lesbians, gays, bisexual James Ivory. Panel discussions on the
and transgender (LGBT), terrorism and
children and teenagers grappling with
film and television market in India and
shooting films in New York state have Sothebyʼs to launch auctions in India
L
realities of life," said Aroon Shivdasani, also been planned.
Executive and Artistic Director of the Also premiering at the festival is eading international auction house tors have long been important participants
not‑for‑profit arts organisation Indo‑ "Breaking the Bee", a documentary Sothebyʼs announced plans to launch in Sothebyʼs auctions. Recently, however, we
American Arts Council, which organizes which focuses on the rise and domi‑ sales in India with ʻBoundless: Mum‑ have seen exponential growth in their activi‑
the film festival. nance of Indian‑American children in baiʼ scheduled for December 2018. The sale ty at Sothebyʼs, not only in our sales of
Aseem Chhabra, NYIFF Director and spelling bees. will be held at the landmark venue, The Taj South Asian art, but also in our wider inter‑
author of veteran actor Shashi Kapoor's The festival will also showcase Pak‑ Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai. national auctions. This strong uptick is part
biography "Shashi Kapoor: The House‑ istani, Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi films. Jan Prasens, Sothebyʼs Managing Director of a global pattern of increased liquidity
for Europe, Middle East, Russia and India: within the market but it is also reflective of
“In recent years, we have witnessed both the the flourishing arts scene on the ground in
T
town, the County's District At‑ driving the wrong way on the highway.
(Image courtesy: nydailynews, dailymail.co.uk) he Indian American Association of old and new in their performances with
torney Madeline Singas said in a
(IAA) at the University of Tennessee‑ fusions of South Asian and Western dance
statement. parking lot, dragging the victim and ulti‑ Knoxville brought Holi to campus and music, including J Balvin and Willy
Coppolo was arraigned before Acting mately ran her over before fleeing the through an annual dance competition. On Williamʼs “Mi Gente.”
Supreme Court Justice Terence Murphy scene by driving the wrong way on the April 14, Saturday night in Cox Auditorium, While some teams showed more of the
on charges including of manslaughter, highway. IAA hosted the annual Raang Se Naachle contemporary side, others like Hurricane
assault, tampering with physical evi‑ Parmar was transported to the hospi‑ Holi Show, a collegiate dance competition Bangra, Classic City Bhangra and Emory
dence and reckless driving. tal in cardiac arrest and was pronounced to celebrate Holi a spring festival that Karma Bhangra focused more on tradition‑
His bail was continued at $1 million dead that night. shows love and unity through colors and al Indian dances, performed in traditional
bond or $ 600,000 cash and he is due Parmar was a beautiful, successful stu‑ community. The show opened with fresh‑ formal attire and utilizing saps ̶ which
back in court on May 17. If convicted, he dent when her life was taken from her
men in IAA walking up to the stage with make a clapping sound ̶ and colored
faces up to a maximum of 26 years in after a minor fender bender, Singas said. candles and performing a short dance, wel‑ wooden koondas, both of which are props
prison. "It is unthinkable that in addition to al‑ coming the audience to the show. Then, the specific to the Bhangra style of dancing.
Attorney Singas said that on the legedly driving away with the young executive board of IAA gave an additional Some teams added a storyline to their
evening of November 9 last year, Par‑ woman in the open window and then welcome, thanked those who contributed performances. UAB Rangeelaʼs perform‑
mar's car was involved in a minor colli‑ running her over, the driver fled the to the show and presented a video and skit ance depicted the relationship between a
sion with Coppolo's pick‑up truck in scene and left Taranjit to die in the park‑ representative of the theme for the night: young girl and her grandmother as a mes‑
Levittown. ing lot. The hit TV show “Friends.” sage to youth to preserve relationships
After the incident, the two pulled both After an investigation, members of the Most of the dance performances had a with the older generations. Champa and
vehicles into the parking lot near a gas Nassau County Police Department locat‑ blend of traditional and contemporary Indi‑ Chameli, an all‑female group from the Uni‑
station. ed Coppolo's truck in a parking lot in an and Western music and dance move‑ versity of Georgia (UGA), gave their dance a
Parmar exited her vehicle and called Westbury, where Coppolo had been ar‑ ments. ATL Insaafi, a nationally competi‑ Kim Possible theme, while USC Moksha
her mother. While on the phone with her rested for another matter several days
tive co‑ed Bollywood fusion dance team gave a Freaky Friday performance.
mother, Parmar yelled for Coppolo to after the November 9 incident. from Atlanta, featured songs like Ariana Georgia Saazish, an all‑boy group from
stop and grabbed his pick‑up truck as he Coppolo, a former FDNY employee, Grandeʼs “Focus” and contemporary Indian UGA, took first place in the competition for
started to move. was arrested on December 23 for Par‑ music in their performance. UT groups their performance, which had a haunted
Coppolo allegedly drove through the mar's death. (PTI) VOLtage and Mayuri also featured blends house theme. (Source: utdailybeacon.com)
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL COMMUNITY April 21-27, 2018 7
New plaque honors Ghadar Why Democrats are rallying behind Hiral
Party movement in Oregon Tipirneni for Arizona Congress seat
Washington, DC: A new plaque Gurudwara in Salem, the largest Washington, DC: Sensing victory,
commemorating the Ghadar in Oregon. the Democratic Party has rallied Hiral Tipirneni is giving tough
movement has been unveiled in It all started five years ago behind Indian American candi‑ fight to her Republican
the northwestern American city when a local historian Johanna date Hiral Tipirneni in Arizona opponent Debbie Lesko
of Astoria, rekindling the contri‑ Ogden wrote about the meetings ahead of a special Congressional (Image courtesy: foxnews.com)
bution of the members of the of the Ghadar members mostly election later this month. “Hiralʼs
Ghadar Party in India's freedom Sikh workers who came from running in a district that
movement. The original plaque, India ‑‑ at the city's Finnish Democrats havenʼt contested
installed at a park in Astoria five Socialist Hall in 1913 in Astoria. since 2012. And winning this
years ago commemorating the "This led to the installation of race would significantly boost our
100 years of foundation of the the first bronze sign. Located at chances of flipping the House in
Ghadar Party in this small coastal the Maritime Memorial Park November,” the Democratic Party
city, was stolen by miscreants last under the Astoria Bridge, it said, throwing its weight behind
October. proved to be an important site for the Indian American, who is giv‑
Thereafter the small local tourists from India and Indian ing a tough fight to her has already hosted a fundraiser supporting our incredible
Indian American community communities across the United Republican opponent Debbie for her opponent, and Paul Ryan Democratic nominee, Dr Hiral
worked with the city to put a new States," the Daily Astoria said. Lesko for the 8th Congressional is headlining another,” the party Tipirneni, because we need to
plaque. The re‑dedication cere‑ The original sign was stolen last District of Arizona. Tipirneni and said. The opposing Republican elect more women to Congress
mony was held on April 6 in the October. "This was heartbreaking Lesko are pitted in a tough fight Party has poured in $322,419 across the country and take back
presence of the city mayor, local for us," Singh said. "Immediately in the April 24 special election, into Leskoʼs political campaign. the house,” Jayapalʼs team said in
officials and members of the we approached the city for an necessitated after the resignation This special election has suddenly a fund raising email.
Indian American community. investigation and started the of Republican Trent Franks fol‑ caught national attention and is “Dr Tipirneni is an emergency
"The sign the one that was campaign to have a new sign," he lowing reports of sexual miscon‑ considered a litmus test for the room physician and cancer
stolen in October and, now, its added. In his remarks on the duct. Interestingly the seat was ruling Republicans. research advocate. Sheʼs hard‑
replacement memorialized a his‑ occasion, former Astoria mayor represented for three terms by Tipirneniʼs parents came to the working and compassionate with
tory that had been long forgotten Willis Van Dusen said that the Democrat Gabrielle Gifford, who US from India when she was three a common‑sense approach to the
in Astoria and beyond," the local theft provided an opportunity for resigned in 2012, after surviving years old. A bout of typhoid fever issues we care about,” it said. If
Daily Astoria said in its report of people to gather and bring the an assassination attempt. as a child inspired her to become she wins, it would mean the first
the event. history to the forefront once However there were no a doctor specialising in emer‑ woman elected to the House this
"This is an important part of again. Local Indian American Democratic candidates running in gency medicine, and sheʼs a pow‑ year, the second Indian American
our freedom struggle, which businesses donated funds for the last three elections. erful advocate for affordable woman ever elected to Congress,
many do not know about," this. "Many of us are aware of the Franks had represented the seat health care coverage for all, her another Republican district won
Bahadur Singh, head of the Ghadar Movement that was start‑ since 2013. He resigned on party said. Congresswoman by a Democrat and a massive
newly‑founded Ghadar Memorial ed by Indians living in North December 8, thus necessitating a Pramila Jayapal, who is the first defeat for President Donald
Foundation of Astoria told PTI America and Vancouver, but what special election. “Hiralʼs strong ever Indian American women to Trumpʼs agenda, it said. The
from Oregon. A prominent com‑ most of us do not know is that campaign is clearly making be elected to the US House of Democratic Party also sent a last
munity leader and businessman, Oregon was home to these Republicans nervous. House Representatives, also came out in minute fundraising email for
Singh is president of the Sikh Ghadrites," Singh said. (PTI) Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy support of Tipirneni. “Pramila is Tipirneni. (PTI)
IN BRIEF
S
erene Singh, a University of Washington: Indian American
Colorado junior majoring in politi‑ Shiva Ayyadurai, running the US
cal science and journalism and Senate election from
minoring in leadership studies, has won Massachusetts, has raised a record
the prestigious Truman Scholarship, an amount of $ 4.6 million. The 54‑
honor that brings with it up to $30,000 for year‑old is running as an inde‑
graduate study, priority admission at grad‑ pendent against the powerful
uate institutions and intensive leadership incumbent Elizabeth Warren, a
training for careers in public service. Democrat.
Singh, in the long history of CU, is only Trying to run an unconventional
the University of Colorado's 11th recipient campaign on the slogan of "Only A
of the scholarship and first since 2014. Real Indian Can Defeat The Fake
The 59 new Truman Scholars were Indian", Ayyadurai said that his
selected from among 756 candidates nom‑ campaign ended March 2018 with
inated by 311 colleges and universities. a total of $4.6 million in contribu‑
Recipients were chosen on the basis of tions.
Serene Singh The Warren campaign has not
their academic and leadership accomplish‑
ments and their likelihood of becoming offer an experience aimed at growing con‑ released its latest figures. But at
public service leaders. fidence and self‑esteem for at‑risk and the start of the year, she had more
Singh, as the first South Asian winner of marginalized communities of women. than 14 million in her campaign
account. Shiva Ayyadurai, 'inventor of email', is running
both America's Junior Miss 2017 as well Singh is a 3‑time State Speech and as Independent for Senate seat from
as Miss Colorado Teen 2016, started a Debate Champion, the first and only one to Ayyadurai, the Mumbai‑born sci‑
Massachusetts.
nonprofit called The Serenity Project to hold this record in the state of Colorado. entist and entrepreneur, is known
for his controversial claim of being letter from the City of Cambridge stat‑
the "inventor of email", based on the ing that fines of $300 per day would be
raising money for top Al Qaida leader a nearby airport, the authori‑
ties said.
A
They identified him as
38‑year‑old Indian engineer in the
Anand Patel, 26, the founder
state of Ohio, accused of funding a
of What's Happy Clothing.
top al‑Qaida leader, has pleaded
The plane, a Piper PA‑24
guilty to concealment of financing of ter‑
Comanche, which was head‑
rorism. Ibrahim Zubair Mohammad, sec‑
ed to Las Vegas crashed onto
ond of the two brothers, is accused of
a Scottsdale golf course,
sending money to Anwar al‑Awlaki in
some 15 minutes after take‑
Yemen. Al‑Awlaki was later designated a Anand Patel, 26
off from the city airport.
terrorist and killed by a US drone in
Nobody on the ground was clothing line and worked as an event
2011. Mohammad is to receive an
hurt, said Kevin Watts, a Scottsdale promoter, flying coast to coast with
agreed‑upon prison sentence of 60
Police Department spokesman. friends and clients on trips that often
months, although he would receive credit
On hitting the ground, the single‑ included stops in Scottsdale, local
for the 30 months he already has spent in
engined plane burst into flames, killing Republic newspaper reported.
the Lucas County jail awaiting trial, The
Ibrahim Zubair Mohammad is accused of all the six passengers on board, police Anand Patel was "an entrepreneur
Blade newspaper reported.
sending money to Anwar al‑Awlaki in said. Their age ranged from 22 to 28 with lots of energy and lots of charis‑
District Judge Jeffrey Helmick told him Yemen. Al‑Awlaki was later designated a years. ma," his brother told the daily.
that due to his plea and conviction, he terrorist and killed by a US drone. Patel, popular among his friends by The plane crash is being investigated
would be deported to India.
Mohammad had studied at the the name of Happy, came to the US by the National Transportation Safety
"You ultimately will be removed from
University of Illinois and lived in Toledo along with his twin brother Akash Patel Board with help from the Federal
this country and told you are not wel‑
since 2006. (PTI) in 2009 for studies. He co‑founded the Aviation Administration.
come to come back," the judge said.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info COMMUNITY April 21-27, 2018 9
UN celebrates Ambedkar's
legacy 'fighting inequality,
inspiring inclusion'
United Nations: Babasaheb Bhimrao affirmative action elements of his coun‑
Ambedkar's legacy of fighting inequality try's 2010 constitution were inspired by
and inspiring inclusion around the world Ambedkar.
was highlighted here at the celebration of He said that he had studied at the
his 127th birth anniversary. Babasaheb Ambedkar College of Law in
UN Development Programme Director Nagpur and many lawyers in Kenya were
Thottapilly family was on a road trip and feared drowned in a swollen California river Achim Steiner said in his keynote address trained in India.
(Image courtesy: ndtv.com) that Ambedkar's legacy lives on in a Bangladesh Permanent representative
remarkable way in the difficult work Masud Bin Momen said, "Many of us learnt
DIASPORA
D
efense Department officials Trump supports. extreme actions. Other sources of credi‑
announced on Saturday that But while I do not agree with President bility, such as American military prowess
American‑led strikes against Syria Trumpʼs policies on most issues, I also do and the general faith in US institutions
had taken out the “heart” of President not have much confidence in many of the may mitigate some of the damage
Bashar al‑Assadʼs chemical weapons pro‑ experts on foreign affairs. Witness, for wrecked by Trump. But there is no substi‑
gram, acknowledging at the same time instance, the following statement by Arhi‑ tute for the president whose words didn't
that the Syrian government most likely Milo in the current Foreign Affairs: matter.”
retained some ability to again attack its “The United States does not derive its Yet this week U.K. and France joined the
own people with chemical agents. credibility from the words of the execu‑ U.S. in the bombing of Syria. I still believe
Warplanes and ships from the United US, allies struck Syrian targets in
tive below, but Trumpʼs behavior carries that the U.S. is the most powerful country
response to the regimeʼs chemical
States, Britain and France launched more consequences. As the president under‑ in the world, that it would take a major
attacks on civlians
than 100 missiles at three chemical mines the nation's credibility at home and error on the presidentʼs part to endorse
weapons storage and research facilities means what he says. He had said that he abroad, allies will hesitate to trust Arhi‑Miloʼs view that “Trumpʼs behavior
near Damascus and Homs. And, like wouldnʼt let Assad get away with heinous‑ American promises, and the US threats carries consequences.” As far as coopera‑
George W. Bush (weeks into Iraq inva‑ ly gassing his own people in Syria – he would lose some of their force. The risks tion on foreign affairs is concerned, the
sion), President Trump announced: took action; on the other, his unshakable of deadly miscalculation will increase. United States is still getting it.
Mission Accomplished! belief that since 9/11 much of American
However, there are some important military response in the Middle East has
questions to answer. The first and fore‑
most among them is: Was it really mission
been a waste of time and, more impor‑
tantly, money. So then how does he
White House dials back Haley's
accomplished? Since there seem to be no
casualties at the site of the allied bomb‑
explain his continual presence in Syria? A
presence that I shall argue later in this
Russia sanctions talk
ing, is it possible that there was no one column, might be necessary because of Washington: President Donald Trump through somebody saying them on a
there? That the bombing may have been bombings like this. walked back US Ambassador to the UN Sunday show."
done on abandoned sites? If that is so, the As with the subject of Donald Trumpʼs Nikki Haleyʼs assertion on Sunday that the The official added that Trump had not
allied effort may well have been “full of habitual exaggeration, this bombing of administration would be imminently totally ruled out additional sanctions, but
sound and fury, signifying nothing.” The Syria may also have been made with one announcing another round of sanctions was not prepared to move forward with
second question is, even if the bombing eye on the mid‑term elections, especially against Russia. them at this time. Trumpʼs decision was
did destroy some of chemical weapons, on his 63 million supporters. To them, A White House official told Politico first reported by the Washington Post.
are the Americans overstating their suc‑ this bombing is reassuring. They do not, Monday that Trump had not signed off on Haley had made the additional sanctions
cess? The opinion of experts who were or would not see that there is an essential the sanctions, despite Haleyʼs Sunday com‑ sound like a done deal. "You will see that
not involved in the bombing is that Syrian contradiction in the Trumpʼs twin policies: ments on CBSʼ “Face the Nation” that they Russian sanctions will be coming down,"
President Bashar al‑Assadʼs chemical bombing Syria also precludes withdrawal would be announced as soon as Monday. she said on CBS on Sunday, adding that
weaponry has not been all destroyed of troops that Trump is determined to do. The administration had reviewed a series Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin "will be
because they most probably did not Why? Bombing creates chaos, and deep of options as part of the response to the announcing those on Monday, if he hasn't
stockpile all their weapons in one place. civil unrest (remember Iraq?). If American chemical attack in Syria earlier this month, already, and they will go directly to any
These are nagging questions. troops are withdrawn from Syria, experts including the sanctions on Russian entities, sort of companies that were dealing with
Also, the strike raises questions about fear there will be a severe lack of military but Trump had not officially approved equipment related to Assad and chemical
Mr. Trumpʼs competing impulses when it order. And in this vacuum, ISIS will rush them, the official said. "The sanctions were weapons use."
comes to Syria ̶ on the one hand, the in. But to the 63 million Trump fans none always something that was just under con‑ Trumpʼs hesitation to impose new sanc‑
President wants to be seen by his follow‑ of this is important. They are getting sideration," the official said, adding, "We tions on Russia was met with criticism by
ers as a no‑nonsense belligerent, who another chance to wave the American would not have rolled out sanctions some Democratic lawmakers. .
12 April 21-27, 2018 INDIA TheSouthAsianTimes.info
By Frank F. Islam
P
rime Minister Narendra Modi set out
an ambitious agenda when he
announced his administration's
Make in India wonʼt work
Make in India program in September 2014.
The centerpiece of that program is the
National Manufacturing Policy, the purpose
of which is to make India a global manufac‑
unless there is a strategic plan w Key Partners: The top three allies who
turing hub. Its intent is to increase manufac‑ can contribute the most to achieving the
turing's share of the country's GDP from 16 plan's goals.
per cent to 25 per cent by 2022 and to cre‑ My quick review of a variety of source
ate 100 million additional jobs by that year. material suggests the following as potential
The policy sets out 11 areas of concentra‑ items for inclusion in that plan that might
tion, including focus sectors, easing of regu‑ have great effect for simultaneously driving
latory environments and acquisition of tech‑ GDP growth and job creation:
nology and development. It identifies 25 w Key Result Area: Infrastructure
specific focus sectors, including automo‑ Development. India's infrastructure prob‑
biles, defense equipment and medical tech‑ lems appear consistently as the most impor‑
nology. tant factor that is retarding its growth
As Prime Minister Modi reported during potential.
the "Make in India week" in February 2016, w Key Driver: Automobile Manufacturing.
progress had been made on the manufactur‑ The National Manufacturing Policy cites
ing agenda. Growth in manufacturing's automobiles as an area in which India
share of the GDP and employment since the already has a competitive advantage that
introduction of the program, however, has can be built upon.
been quite sluggish. w Key Partner: The United States. These
Growth in manufacturing's share of the GDP and employment since the introduction of
More recently, in mid‑March, during a visit "indispensable partners" have just begun to
the Make in India program has been quite sluggish.
to India, American economist and Nobel scratch the surface of trade arrangements
Prize winner Paul Krugman called attention and exchanges that can be mutually
Manufacturing Policy outlines a broad range policy into action with a laser‑beam focus. It
to the need for India to hit manufacturing beneficial.
of initiatives covering a number of diffuse delivers the keys to the kingdom. It identi‑
with a much bigger stick. After lauding India India continues its ascent, but not as
and diverse areas. A policy is not a plan. It is fies:
for its significant economic growth and quickly as intended. A Make in India
a prescription that must be targeted to w Key Result Areas: The few areas (3‑7) in
becoming a better place to do business, Manufacturing Strategic Plan will kick on
achieve the desired end goals ‑‑ in this which strategic action programmes must be
Krugman observed: "India's lack in the man‑ the after‑burners and accelerate that ascent.
instance, manufacturing being 25 per cent developed and implemented effectively and
ufacturing sector could work against it, as it Putting the right plan in place and imple‑
of the GDP and 100 million new jobs by efficiently.
doesn't have the jobs essential to sustain the menting it properly should make the sky the
2022. w Key Drivers: The critical factors or
projected growth in demography. You have limit for the Indian economy and the Indian
A well‑constructed strategic plan provides sources of competitive advantage that can
to find jobs for people." people.
the means for that targeting. It translates be leveraged for success.
The Make in India's National
T
he increasing polarization internet in India. Telecom opera‑ of social media and its increasing
among media in India ‑‑ and tors have already rolled out unlim‑ user‑base cannot alone replace
perhaps across the world ‑‑ ited monthly internet plans that media as the fourth pillar of
has led to an unprecedented trust are, quite shockingly, even cheaper democracy. After all, media is the
deficit in everyday news. What was than a monthly subscription of trusted voice of the people and, as
once regarded as the fourth pillar most newspapers. At the same African‑American human rights
of democracy today finds itself time, there is a significant rise of activist Malcolm X said, media is
under the scrutiny of citizens as "social media influencers" across "the most powerful entity on earth.
tainted news published with self‑ platforms on the internet. They have the power to make the
securing motives are an everyday Celebrities of the internet in their innocent guilty and to make the
occurrence in our times. own right, many social media influ‑ guilty innocent, and that's power.
The times we live in are extreme‑ encers target niche audiences Because they control the minds of
ly challenging for the media. How based on language, geographical the masses".
media outlets have been hand‑in‑ location and even religion and Hasn't social media too come to
It is high‑time that media entrepreneurs and voices from the fraternity
glove with political leaders and caste, in many cases. command a similar, if not more
re‑evaluate traditional media's interaction with social media.
parties is no secret today. A jour‑ But the most significant factor vicious and quicker, authority
nalist now commands far less existence is in a crisis ‑‑ a crisis ‑‑ whether it is cultural or social leading to a slide in the traditional today?
respect in society than was the that could well result in social and clubbed as "soft" news ‑‑ is fast media's position is a result of its Social media and the internet
case even a decade ago. All of this, media taking on the "fourth pillar diminishing. Pages that were earli‑ own doing. In the race to make the are still new phenomena in India,
along with a host of other com‑ of democracy" tag. And this could er dedicated to theatre, music and utmost use (and monetary profit) something that even today's col‑
pelling factors, have together led happen far earlier than projected. books are being replaced with of the internet, media outlets of lege‑goers have seen evolving
to a massive downslide in the This may happen because of a "hard" politics ‑‑ or simply negative our times have given it their entire before their eyes. Traditional
media's place in a liberal democra‑ variety of reasons, primarily and conflict‑bearing news ‑‑ that content. The excitement to read media, on the other hand, has been
cy. There is the suspicious eye of because the attraction that the point to the grim picture of the the newspaper early in the morn‑ around for hundreds of years. It is
the audience, who, even while social media has for those who times we are living in. There is no ing, therefore, is gradually dying, high‑time that media entrepre‑
reading or watching what the were earlier fed by the mainstream space to breathe for a particular because almost everything that neurs and voices from the fraterni‑
media reports, refuses to believe. media and the increasing afford‑ section of readers that is intellec‑ appears in the newspaper is ty re‑evaluate traditional media's
Media is no longer, for most audi‑ ability of the internet for the less tually inclined. Social media, thus, already trending on the social interaction with social media.
ences, the honest purveyor of news privileged. comes as a natural relief to such media in advance. If not, social media may well, if
‑‑ difficult to digest but apparently From television channels to most audience as just a couple of clicks The circulation mafias and selec‑ not already, replace the traditional
true. leading dailies in India, the in the keyboard will lead a visitor tive advertisements have made media as the fourth estate ‑‑ and
The very purpose of media's reportage on non‑sensational news to the content that he wants. matters worse for the traditional that is a fear more forbidding.
The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL COMMUNITY April 21-27, 2018 15
By Surekha Vijh in Washington
A
t their Legislative Day on Capitol Hill
on April 12, the American Association
of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI)
addressed one score Congress members,
Congress members promise
bringing to the fore some of the major con‑
cerns of the Indian‑American community, par‑
ticularly those affecting the physicians and
their patients.
to address AAPI concerns
Representatives from both the major politi‑
cal parties agreed that there is a shortage of
At their Legislative Day on Capitol Hill, AAPI highlighted acute
physicians in the US, and the issue of increas‑
ing residencies should be addressed in
physicians’ shortage in America, which affects healthcare
Congress. delivery and argued for increasing residency slots.
AAPI had over a hundred of its own repre‑
sentatives at the annual event held at the CA). “India is our friend, and Indian
Rayburn House Office Building, highlighting Americans are the hardest working communi‑
issues like the South Asiansʼ heart health, low‑ ty in the US including Indian physicians.”
ering the cost of prescription drugs, immigra‑ According to AAPI, there are patients who
tion reforms including of H‑1 and J‑1visas, face lengthy delays in various specialties, a
increasing residency slots, Medicare and situation which will worsen over time.
Medicaid reimbursement, Tort reform The bipartisan members of Congress dis‑
(reducing the practice of defensive medicine) cussed ways to reform health care delivery, to
and individual mandate of Obamacare which ensure its cost‑effectiveness, and the negative
has been repealed. effects of defensive medicine, which has driv‑
In a show of support, the Indian‑American en up the cost of health care. Many AAPI
House members, all Democrats ‑‑ Pramila members expressed concerns over legislation
Jayapal, Raja Krishnamoorth and Ro Khanna ‑ that would prohibit international medical
‑ addressed AAPI delegates, listened to their graduates from securing residency positions
concerns and promised full support. in the U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone
AAPI President Dr. Gautam Samadder, a
Rep. Ed Royce addressing Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi
On the H‑1B matter, Rep. Jayapal told the at the AAPI Legslative
the AAPI representatives addressed the event.
prominent physician with decades of service, gathering she had been an immigration attor‑ Day on the Hill.
expressed hope that the Legislative Day will ney for 15 years and would be trying her best the healthcare, academic, research and has come to be recognized as vital among
push forward AAPI cause. “AAPI represents to push through legislation. administrative positions across the nation. lawmakers. The Indian Embassy in
the interests of over 60,000 physicians and Others who spoke at the event included With their challenging work, dedication, com‑ Washington, D.C. held a reception for the
25,000 medical students and residents of Reps. Tulsi Gabbard (D‑Hawaii), Joe Crowley passion, and skills, they have thus carved an AAPI delegation, lawmakers and prominent
Indian heritage in the United States. Almost (D‑NY), Andy Barr (R‑ KY), Barbara Comstock enviable niche in the American medical com‑ members of the Indian‑American community
10‑12 per cent of medical students entering (R‑VA), Steve Chabot (R‑OH), Mike Kelly (R‑ munity. Tulsi Gabbard said that AAPIʼs role on the same evening.
US schools are of Indian origin,” said Dr PA), Joaquin Castro (D‑TX), Peter Roskam
Samadder. AAPIʼs Legislative Affairs chair‑ (R‑IL) an, Frank Pallone (D‑NJ).
man, Dr. Vinod K. Shah said he was happy AAPIʼs lobbying efforts on some of the
that their concerns were being heard. “We issues affecting the broader Indian
look forward to legislative changes soon,” American community and other immigrant
Shah said. “There is a physician shortage in groups is a testament to its growth and
our country… AAPI believes that all reach. Being one of the oldest Indian
Americans have the right to see a physician.” American organizations, itʼs also among the
“This immensely successful event, including most influential, as was evident from the
our partnership with the Indian Embassy, has number of members of Congress who
showcased AAPIʼs strength in relationship showed up. .
building and maintaining ties with our elect‑ Frank Pallone said the growing influence
ed officials,” said Dr. Sampat Shivangi, of doctors of Indian heritage was evident as
Legislative Committee Co‑Chair. “From health increasingly they hold critical positions in
care to supporting reforms to the
legal immigration process, AAPI
continues to serve as a shining
example of leadership among
Indian American community
organizations.”
Most of the House members
agreed with AAPI demands that
there is an ongoing physician
shortage, which affects the quality
of care provided to American
patients. Rep. Pramila Jayapal with AAPI leaders including
“We are already pushing forward Dr Vinod Shah (on the mike), AAPIʼs Legislative
these demands,” said Ed Royce (R‑ Affairs chairman.
Deputy Chief of Mission in the Indian Embassy Santosh Jha speaking at the embassy
reception with AAPI President Dr Gautam Samadder to his right.
16 April 21-27, 2018 ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD TheSouthAsianTimes.info
A
Mohali district police chief Kuldeep merican motivational speaker and You did such a nice job on 'Hichki'. I had a
Singh Chahal told the media that investi‑ educator Brad Cohen says director chance to watch it with over 100 family,
gations were underway. Siddharth P. Malhotra and actress friends and fellow educators. Everyone loved
The hit song "Gaal Ni Kadni" has over Rani Mukerji have done a great job in it," Cohen said in a statement to IANS.
118 million views on YouTube. Singer Parmish Verma "Hichki". "You should have heard the buzz of conver‑
Cohen's book "Front of The Class" ‑‑ detail‑ sation after the movie. For now just know that
ing how Tourette Syndrome made him the I appreciate your perseverance and dedica‑
ABOUT LOVE AND HOPE Friday. The movie is about Naina Mathur, who
has a nervous system disorder, Tourette
about it. Please give my best to the entire
'Hichki' Team," he added. On this, Cohen said:
Syndrome, that forces an individual to make "Please thank Yash Raj Film for making the
involuntary repetitive movements or sounds. viewing happen. You all feel so far away. I
The film's narrative focuses on turning disad‑ wish you were closer. But for now you all
vantages into opportunities. brought a lot of joy to the people closest to
"Sid (Sidharth)......Amazing! Phenomenal! me as they had a chance to view 'Hichki'."
D
o yourself a favor. Don't make the
mistake of writing off Kapil Sharma,
Review
although the entertainer who
brought so much cheer into our lives has
Actors Varun Dhawan and Banita Sandhu in 'October'
nothing to smile about at this point of time.
D
irector Shoojt Sircar's "October" is a Although the pace of the film is slow and a But then tough times, as we all know, don't
poignant tale about love and hope, large chunk of it is based in a morbid setting last. Tough human beings ‑‑ and good ones ‑‑
where Shiuli or night Jasmine flow‑ ‑‑ a hospital, it is completely devoid of melo‑ do. Hang me for saying this, but I truly
ers, which are perfumed and spread their fra‑ drama. believe Kapil is a good human being. Simple,
The comedian‑actor Kapil Sharma.
grance everywhere and abound in autumn, is Each character is well‑etched and fits snug‑ straightforward, he always tells it like it is.
cleverly used as a metaphor to denote the ly into the plot, which flows smoothly. The deep connect with the masses is not a same things? Wouldn't you be angry? We all
ephemeral nature of life. Although seemingly predictable, the end put‑on. With him, what you see is what you have our way of expressing anger. I do it with
Danish Walia or Dan (Varun Dhawan), as brings with it an unexpected twist which get. You won't find him mincing words. gaalis," Kapil told me.
he is fondly called is a hotel management sums up the film succinctly. Now that he has achieved stupendous suc‑ Kapil's is a sordid saga of backstabbing and
intern at a five star hotel in Delhi, who is Varun Dhawan excels as Dan and the meta‑ cess, he doesn't know how to handle it. I've treachery. But it's not an unusual one in our
known for his brusque and self‑assured ways. morphosis of his character without seeming known him before he became a big star and entertainment industry where opportunists
Always dreaming of something big, he dis‑ overly emotional or mushy, is well‑written he has never been anything less than warm get a free run. But Kapil doesn't know how to
likes the menial chores assigned to him and and astutely handled by him as an actor. and affectionate and seemingly vulnerable ‑‑ cope with it. A post‑script: Kapil has prom‑
is irresponsible and undependable. His Shiuli Iyer played by Banita Sandhu is a sharing with me his inner‑most fears and ised to marry the very devoted, very intelli‑
friends, who are his colleagues at work, character you empathize with. She is effec‑ insecurities. gent and sorted Ginny ‑‑ the mysterious girl‑
including Shiuli Iyer (Banita Sandhu) and tive in her body language and expressions, Kapil last week agreed that he wrote offen‑ friend about whom no one knows, and to
Manjeet, often cover up for him and save him albeit on the hospital bed. sive and abusive posts on his Twitter page whom, Kapil says, he is "already married in
from trouble. Gitanjali Rao as Prof Iyer, Shiuli's mother and had a verbal spat with a journalist. his mind". Making it official would be just the
A chance accident which lands Shiuli Iyer leaves a strong impact through her portrayal When I spoke to him after the fireworks kind of formality that is abhorred by the
in hospital, results in the uncaring and indif‑ of a distraught, but strong mother who con‑ that eroded his reputation even more, he was informal, unassuming and unpretentious
ferent Dan transform into a new person. His ducts herself with unflinching poise. not the least apologetic. On the contrary, he boy‑man from Amritsar.
whole life revolves around ensuring that "October" may not be your typical action or told me things related to the incident that The man who brought abundant laughter
Shiuli recovers and he inadvertently becomes entertaining film, but the fragrance of the further exposed the hollowness of this whole into our lives, I am sure, would continue to do
a pillar of strength for her family, especially characters and their lives lingers long after sham and shindig that we call showbiz. "How so.
her mother Prof Iyer (Gitanjali Rao). you leave the theater. would you respond if you went through the See you, Kapil, after the break.
18 April 21-27, 2018 GEOLOGY TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Rajasthan beat
KKR canter to 71‑run win over Delhi Bangalore by 19 runs
Kolkata: Kolkata Knight Riders rode on Bengaluru: Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated
Nitish Rana and Andre Russell's heroics to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 19
snap a two‑game losing streak and register a runs to register their second win in three
71‑run victory over Delhi Daredevils in a lop‑ matches of the Indian Premier League
sided Indian Premier League (IPL) clash at (IPL) Twenty20 cricket tournament.
the Eden Gardens here. Rajasthan put up a huge score of 217 for
Put in by their celebrated former captain 4 wickets, riding on Sanju Samson's blister‑
Gautam Gambhir, KKR piled up 200/9 as in‑ ing 92 not out off 45 deliveries. RCB man‑
form Rana smashed a 35‑ball 59 with Russell aged to score 198/6 as the southern outfit
clobbering a 12‑ball 44, that included six suffered its second loss in three games.
sixes off Mohammed Shami. Samson shared crucial partnerships with
In reply, Glenn Maxwell's 22‑ball 47 and Ben Stokes (27 off 21), Jos Buttler (23 off
Rishabh Pant's 26‑ball 43 went in vain, as 14) and Rahul Tripaathi (14 not out off
Delhi were bundled out for 129 with mystery five), as Rajasthan capitalised on a strong
spinner Sunil Narine (3/18) and chinaman start provided by captain Ajinkya Rahane
Kuldeep Yadav (3/32) plotting most of the (36 off 20).
damage. Right‑hander Rahane hit six fours and a
Delhi were reduced to 24/3 inside the first six to provide the early fireworks for the
three overs with opener Jason Roy (1), visitors as they raced to 49 off 5.4 overs
Shreyas Iyer (4) and skipper Gambhir (8) till the dismissal of the Indian internation‑
back in the hut. Leg‑spinner Piyush Chawla al. Rahane hit a slower delivery from
(1/16) got Roy's back in the last ball of the English medium pacer Chris Woakes into
Kolkata Knight Riders celebrate after winning the match against
innings' first over with a slider down the leg the hands of Umesh Yadav at mid‑on.
Delhi Daredevils in Kolkata. (Photo: Kuntal Chakrabarty/IANS)
side which the England batsman missed and In the following over, the other opening
went down the wicket for skipper Dinesh former holed out to Chawla at deep midwick‑ from the word go. batsman D'Arcy Short (11 off 17) under‑
Karthik to effect a stumping. et off Yadav. Russell hit six sixes in a three‑over period edged a delivery from leg‑spinner
In the next over, Rana caught Iyer at first From there on, it was all downhill for Delhi where the hosts bludgeoned 54 runs before Yuzvender Chahal and was caught by wick‑
slip off Russell's bowling while the big wick‑ as they lost wickets in a hurry. leg‑spinner Rahul Tewatia (3/18) put a lid on et‑keeper Quinton de Kock.
et of Gambhir ‑‑ who is KKR's most successful Earlier, Rana played a gem of an innings, the proceedings by taking three wickets in These two quick wickets boosted RCB's
captain winning two IPLs with them ‑‑ fell to selecting his shots with aplomb, as he hit five the last over conceding a miserly one run. confidence ‑‑ only to be destroyed by
U‑19 World Cup winner Shivam Mavi (1/14). fours and four sixes to set up KKR's Rana and Russell stitched together a 61‑ Samson and Stokes later. Both milked runs,
Pant and Maxwell then came together for a onslaught. This allowed Russell, who was run partnership in just 22 balls for the fifth despite good bowling from Chahal and
62‑run stand for the fourth wicket before the dropped on 7 by Roy, to go for the big shots wicket. Washington Sundar.
T
ech honchos in Silicon Valley “Big industry players that have Intelligence at the University of
are deeply worried at the financial strength and business Mumbaiʼs Kalina campus ̶ report‑
Chinaʼs rapid progress in experience to invest in AI research ed to be the first AI research lab in
harnessing Artificial Intelligence and development (R&D) typically the country.
(AI) technology that has shown lead the strategic charge on global US‑based philanthropist brothers
encouraging results in changing competitiveness for their country,” Romesh Wad hwani and Sunil
the way we work and live. the Accenture analysis stressed. Wadhwani have established the
According to Eric Schmidt, former Google, Amazon, Facebook and institute and want it to become like
chairman of Alphabet, the parent Apple are spearheading AI innova‑ San Francisco‑based non‑profit
company of Google, China will over‑ t ions in the US, and Alibaba, “OpenAI” that has SpaceX and Tesla
take the US in AI by 2025. Tencent and Baidu are funding the founder Elon Musk as one of its co‑
Measured by start‑up financing AI research in China. founders.
deals and dollars from venture cap‑ In line with the global trends, the In order to become a true AI pow‑
italists, the United Statesʼ AI start‑ digital platform companies are erhouse, it is high time that New
up ecosystem currently dominates becoming the driving force of AI Delhi makes Beijing a bigger part‑
̶ followed by China, says a recent (Image courtesy: forbesmiddleeast.com) innovations in India too. ner in fueling AI research at home.
Accenture analysis titled “Rewire According to Rajesh Janey, According to Accenture, AI
for Growth.” tryʼs policy initiatives are not com‑ These represent very dif ferent Managing Director and President, research has been motivated by
When it comes to India, the num‑ prehensive yet and lag other G20 approaches to “getting ready” for India Enterprise, Dell EMC, the societal needs in India so far and
ber of AI start‑ups has increased countries. AI. country is entering an era of monu‑ the first step now is to create a
since 2011 at a compounded annu‑ China, on the other hand, today “Chinaʼs approach carefully man‑ mental technological change, rich comprehensive, long‑term vision
al growth rate of 86 per cent. harbors one of the biggest clusters ages investment, infrastructure, with opportunity. and road‑map for AI.
But the size of funding till date is of AI scientists. focus verticals and training. This “Globally, businesses plan to “The national AI plan with clear
substantially smaller in India than According to T he Economist, has benefits in speed of execution triple their investments in milestones should be set as a priori‑
in the US and China, reflecting the Chinaʼs State Council has issued an and outcomes ̶ especially when advanced AI within five years. India ty. Here, India can follow the lead
limited success of Indiaʼs AI start‑ ambitious policy blueprint, calling there is clarity on the priority areas too will see the same enthusiasm, of China which has laid out clear
ups in achieving scale so far, the for the country to become “the of application,” Pradhan told IANS. with investments in AI jumping targets for AI development in phas‑
report noted. worldʼs primary AI innovation cen‑ Advances in AI largely happen in from 31 per cent to 89 per cent in es, initially by 2020 and going for‑
“According to our analysis, AI has tre” by 2030. an open, peer‑reviewed community the same time‑frame,” Janey told ward by 2030,” it added.
the potential to add $957 billion, or “Chinaʼs AI programme is highly with free exchange of ideas. “Over IANS. T he first crit ical thing is to
15 per cent of current gross value structured and driven ʻtop downʼ time, there may be more coordinat‑ AI will improve our interaction understand the role AI is likely to
added, to Indiaʼs economy in 2035,” whereas Indiaʼs approach is more ed government investment ̶ espe‑ with technology, understand the play across multiple professions.
said Accenture. ʻorganicʼ ̶ at least till this point ̶ cially in resource‑constrained envi‑ abundance of data and rely on the “Targeted augmentation in every
Prime Minister Narendra Modi driven largely by the private sector ronments,” Pradhan noted. predictions to automate excessively field will be the key to success
now wants that AI technolog y and driven by their unique needs W hen it comes to funding, complex or mundane tasks, said for the country to have an
should be “Made in India” and for AI,” said Dr Prashant Pradhan, Machine Learning (ML), recommen‑ Shaakun Khanna, Senior Director, AI‑ready workforce,” Prad han
“Made to Work for India” but Chief Technology Of ficer, IBM dation engines and computer vision HCM Strategy and Transformation, stressed.
despite promising starts, the coun‑ India/South Asia. are the most popular segments of Asia Pacific at Oracle. (IANS)
A
It may have once been a no‑no to ask for
just bending nuptial gift list rules, theyʼre
spirations of home ownership is arate myths from facts,” says Freddie Mac anything except traditional household goods.
rewriting them. With emerging technology,
strong for Americaʼs families, yet Vice President, Danny Gardner. But young nearly‑weds are modernizing reg‑
itʼs not just the presents that are being mod‑
findings from the fifth annual For example, the average down payment istries by embracing the gift of technology:
ernized, the registries themselves are too.
America at Home survey from among first‑time homebuyers in 2016 was l More than two in five millennials (42
Moenʼs survey found that of millennials
NeighborWorks America indicate several just 6 percent and, for repeat buyers, just percent) would want to include smart home
who have ever had a registry, over two in five
perceived barriers to homeownership 14 percent. Whatʼs more, mortgage products on their registry if they were regis‑
(43 percent) registered at online‑only retail‑
among the majority of consumers. options, such as Freddie Macʼs Home tering today, with digital voice assistants (66
ers, such as Amazon or Jet.com, while 23 per‑
Findings from the survey, which consisted Possible Mortgages, make it possible for percent), such as Amazon Alexa and Google
cent used a honeymoon registry, which allows
of 1,000 U.S. adults and 500 millennials qualified borrowers to put down as little as Home, topping their lists of desired smart
couples to request donations to use toward
include many misconceptions about what it 3 percent. products.
honeymoon experiences, and 18 percent used
takes to buy a home: If your down payment is less than 20 per‑ l Would‑be grooms in particular seem to
a universal registry, where newlyweds‑to‑be
• The average millennial mistakenly cent with a conventional loan, youʼll have to love tech – nearly half (48 percent) of male
can seamlessly link gifts from multiple retail‑
thinks the minimum required down pay‑ pay private mortgage insurance, an added millennials who would want smart home
ers. Of millennials who have ever had a reg‑
ment is 21.6 percent. insurance policy that protects the lender if products on their wedding registry would add
istry, only one in five (21 percent) registered
• Approximately 73 percent of all con‑ you are unable to pay your mortgage. smart lightbulbs/light switches, smart ther‑
at a brick and mortar store without an online
sumers and 62 percent of millennials said However, mortgage rates ‑‑ despite their mostats (42 percent) and a digital shower (32
option.
they were not aware of or are unsure about rise in recent years ‑‑ remain at historic percent).
“Recent CDC research found that young
down payment assistance programs in their lows, providing you with a significant “Tech is trending when it comes to wedding
people are getting married later and living
communities for middle‑income homebuy‑ advantage. wish lists,” says Andrea Maher, senior market‑
with partners before tying the knot, meaning
ers. There are also millions of dollars avail‑ ing communications specialist, Moen. “Our
they may already have glassware, blenders
• Seventy percent of adults feel they donʼt able for down payment assistance. A great survey found that just as many millennial
and toasters,” says Maher. “As a result, gifts
have enough money saved for a down pay‑ place to start is right where you live. Many would‑be brides would put smart home prod‑
like a hands‑free faucet for the kitchen or
ment. state, county, and city governments provide ucts on their registries (43 percent) as glass‑
money toward honeymoon excursions are
Experts believe that confusion about financial assistance for people in their com‑ ware (44 percent), with products like a robot
what couples really want and need.”
down payment requirements and lack of munities who are well qualified and ready vacuum cleaner (65 percent) and a hands‑
Online tools like Zola and Honeyfund have
awareness about assistance programs are for homeownership. free faucet (39 percent) being some of the
made creating a modernized registry easy
holding back many people from pursuing To help demystify down payments and most wanted items among those who would
and can help ease the minds of traditionally‑
homeownership. “Before deciding if owning the home buying process, free tools and want smart home products on their wedding
minded guests, as theyʼre able to see exactly
a home is right for you, take time to under‑ resources are available at myhome.fred‑ registry.” “After all, with the great gear avail‑
where their money is going.
stand your down payment options, and sep‑ diemac.com.
A TALK
B‑2 visa is a temporary and you have an intention of Any dependents of B‑2 nonimmi‑ a convenient way to come quickly
non‑immigrant visitor visa returning at the end of the visit; grants, spouse and children under to the US. For more information to
for pleasure or personal and the age of 21, are not allowed to see whether the B‑2 visitor visa is
needs. This visa is for individuals 8 You donʼt have any other obtain a dependent visa. Each right for you or you family or
who are coming to the U.S. for 8 Arrive in the U.S. as a part of restrictions that would not allow dependent who will join the B‑2 friends you should contact an
tourism purposes. Some qualifying a crew of a ship or an aircraft; you to be admitted in to the U.S. visa holder to the U.S. must apply experienced immigration attorney
tourism purposes include: 8 Work as a journalist, foreign such as an arrest or previous visa separately for their own B‑2 visa. with consular experience.
press, or other information media; violation.
8 Vacation; 8 Perform before a paying audi‑ The steps of the application Dev Banad Viswanath is the Principal
8 Visiting family and friends; ence; process for a B‑2 visa vary depend‑ Attorney of The Banad Law Offices PC in the
8 Enrolling in a short recre‑ 8 Manage a business located in ing at which U.S. Embassy or United States, and Banad Immigration in
ational course of study such as a the U.S; or Consulate you apply at. It is recom‑ India for which Attorney Michael Phulwani is
two‑day cooking class; 8 Permanent residence in the mended that applicants NOT make also affiliated as Of Counsel. With Offices in
8 Participating in a musical, U.S. firm travel plans to visit the US Manhattan, Queens, Bangalore, and Mumbai,
sports, or similar event if not being Am I Eligible for a B‑1 Visa? until they have their B‑2 Visitor the firm is able to assist clients with all facets
paid for participation; In order to be eligible for a B‑2 Visa in hand after interview and of the immigration process, including
8 Medical treatment; or visa an individual must meet the approval. Employment Visas, Consular Visa Assistance,
8 Tourism following criteria: Under a B‑2 visa an individual Student Visas, Removal & Deportation, US
Travel activities not allowed to 8 The visit must be for a legiti‑ Citizenship and Green Card Applications
may stay in the U.S. between one
mate visitor purpose; based on Family or Employment. Dev B.
take part in on a B‑2 visa: and six months, six months being
8 The trip must be for a specific Viswanath can be reached at
8 Employment, whether paid or the maximum. After the initial
Dev@Banadlaw.com and 718‑361‑5999
unpaid; limited period of time; period of stay ends, an extension Dev will be in India from April 28 to May 11.
8 Receive education which 8 You must be able to financial‑ of stay may be granted for up to an You can contact his office for a consultation.
credits to a degree or diploma; ly fund the trip and stay on your additional six months. The maxi‑
Answers
To be continued in
the following
issues of The South
Asian Times.
28 April 21-27, 2018 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info
To be reincarnated
in China, you have
to fill in a form
A
woman said recently that her dead Mark Agee wrote: "I never believed in
husband had returned to their reincarnation before but... Dad?"
home reincarnated as a young cow. Then a reader sent me a photo of a sign
It behaves just like him, said Khim Hang, af fixed to the tiger sanctuary in a zoo
74, from the Kratie province of Cambodia, somewhere in India: "Only those who
without going into detail. strongly believe in rebirth should risk
Sounds legit. Since cows divide their going near."
time between eating, pooping and sleep‑ On the Western side of the planet, news‑
ing, you can totally see they can remind papers reported the sad news that the
people of married men. delightful Carey Williams, author of books
"The young cow was born in March and on reincarnation, "passed away" in the life but I suspect his current one may be friends who do.
has attracted a strong following on social first week of March. Surely "took a break" rather on the short side. "Dying people see a light at the end of
media," Reuters reported. How depressing would make more sense? Indeed, I've Now here's the curious thing. Birth rates the tunnel ‑‑ that's you being born into
it is to read that even farm animals have heard it said that tombstones of people in the West and the Far East have plum‑ your next life," explained the friend men‑
better web skills than this columnist and who believe in reincarnation should not meted while they are rising in South Asia tioned above.
his peers. say "RIP" (Rest In Peace) but "BRB" (Be and Africa. So if a Westerner, say Donald I told him that was even more depress‑
Reincarnation was on my mind after Right Back). Trump, gets reincarnated, there's a 75 per ing! After years of toil on earth, surely you
several recent references to it in the One of my male friends says that the cent chance he'll be Asian or African. deserve at least a couple of weeks' holiday
media. For example, one news story was existence of feminism is proof of rebirth: Hope he's cool with that. The food in somewhere (say the heavenly version of
headlined: "Pig in Australia steals 18 "Feminists are when guys get reincarnated Mumbai's better than Western "food", any‑ an Ibiza nightclub) before rebirth? Life is
beers, gets drunk and fights cow". Reader as women." I don't know about his next way. In China, the law says that tulkus exhausting.
(Buddhist teachers who have lived at least Unless of course you're a pet cow, and
one past life) must have filled in a only having to divide your time between
Reincarnation Application Form and had it sleeping, pooping and eating. Maybe Khim
approved in their previous life. I am not Hang's husband has got the right idea.
making this up. Look up China's State If one gets to choose, I would be reborn
Religious Affairs Bureau Order No.5 if you as a potato. My wife could put me on the
don't believe me. This writer struggles to sofa, and voila: Everything back to just
believe in reincarnation, but has lots of how it was.
BEST
RATE
FOR
INDIA
AND
PAKISTAN
APRIL 21‑27, 2018 ANNUAL PREDICTIONS: FOR THOSE BORN IN THIS WEEK
ARIES: You may not have it LIBRA: Luck shines on those 21st April, 2018 need to take utmost care of your health as a result of your hard work and dedica‑
easy on the academic front. hunting the job market. Traits in you: Being ruled by Jupiter, to maintain it and remain fit. The health tion. Your promotion is on cards. You
you are courteous, courageous, decisive, of your family members might be a con‑ should take help of your seniors to learn
Running petty errands for sen‑ Cordial relations with every‑
ambitious, disciplined, and realistic. You cern for you this year. Try and avoid quickly and perform exceptionally well
iors may become your lot this week. one may become an asset on the pro‑ are gifted with high imagination power, your bad habits and start practicing as it would help you grow professionally.
Health needs to be taken care. Some fessional front. Higher studies may optimism, and enthusiasm. However, yoga for the betterment of your health. Romance this year: You will spend a
restrictions are likely to be imposed beckon and make you enroll in a pres‑ behaving restless and dominating may Finance this year: You may get bene‑ peaceful life with your love interest this
hamper your characteristics at times. fits from your investments later this year. You will lead a blissful life with
on the work front, which may not be tigious institute. Lover may make the
You need to work on your personality to year. This year seems to be an ideal one your beloved with lots of love, care, con‑
to your liking. Donʼt bother much, as week special for you by doing some‑ to start investing in business, land or cern, and support.
make yourself better as an individual.
you will get used to them. Lover may thing you enjoy the most. A vacation is Health this year: You may undergo gold. Your efforts to earn money may
demand a sympathetic ear for his or in the offing, so pack your bags for few minor health issues this year, which pay off this time. You may go for new 26th April, 2018
her woes. somewhere exotic. You will be able to may bother you for a long time. You can partnerships. However, you should verify Traits in you: Your ruling planet
go for yoga or meditation to restore your the financial background of your partner Saturn makes you humble, honest,
TAURUS: Keep your finger on overcome a cash crunch by pre‑empt‑
good health. You need to take required for your financial security. focused, practical, realistic and enthusi‑
the pulse of a situation, if you ing the situation. Health remains medication by consulting a doctor. Career this year: If you are a working astic. You are blessed with enormous tal‑
want to gain an upper hand. excellent. Finance this year: As far as finance is professional, you may face various pro‑ ent and imagination. Along with the pos‑
You are likely to become a force to SCORPIO: Bad mood of spouse concerned, you will be earning a lot of fession related problems this year. You itive characters in you, there are some
contend with on the professional threatens to spoil the domestic money. You will be assigned to new proj‑ need to handle all the issues diplomati‑ negative aspects in your nature. You
ects and those will be highly yielding for cally else you may lose your job. You need to work on your nature of being
front. Higher ups are likely to repose atmosphere, so make concerted
you. You will gain enough profits from may create wonder in the creativity field envious, unreliable, and indiscipline.
full faith in you for carrying a project efforts to kiss and make up! Chances of your past investments. Your improved if you are a writer, singer or actor. Health this year: Your health will
through. Some of you are likely to being ignored for a prestigious assign‑ financial status may bring you lot of hap‑ Romance this year: You will find your remain good throughout the year. You
enter a higher pay scale bracket. You ment cannot be ruled out on the aca‑ piness and joy later this year. partner to be a huge emotional support need to take utmost care of your health
will resolve to opt for a healthy demic front. A senior may repose full Career this year: You will be given for you during the tough times of your to maintain it and remain fit. The health
more responsibility this year as you have life. You may get involved in a matrimo‑ of your family members might be a con‑
lifestyle in order to remain fit. faith in you for tackling a situation at
proved yourself to be an ef ficient nial alliance. cern for you this year. Try and avoid
Romance may come a knocking for work, so donʼt let him or her down. A resource for your employer. You may your bad habits and start practicing
some. salary issue may take its own time to expect a promotion or salary hike later 24th April, 2018 yoga for the betterment of your health.
GEMINI: Someoneʼs untiring get resolved. Those feeling a bit low this this year. You should guide your ordi‑ Traits in you: As you are ruled by Finance this year: You will be among
nates to perform better and bring unex‑ Venus, you are simple, generous, cheer‑ major financial gains this year. You may
efforts to promote your cause week will find the family supportive.
pected results for your organization. ful, friendly, humble, honest and peace go for a real estate transaction later this
will help you in creating a SAGITTARIUS: Your attempts loving. You are pretty interested to stay year and this will bring you a lot of
Romance this year: Your relationship
niche for yourself. Your romantic at being extra smart may not with your partner may reach to new in harmony with each and everyone in money to cherish. You may start up a
endeavours will be fruitful. You will get you the kind of returns you heights this year as your love, trust, care your surroundings. You need to work on new business. If you are already into
manage to turn a business trip into a expect. Extra‑curricular activities may and concern will develop towards your your nature of being restless and pes‑ business, you may plan for expanding its
beloved. You may get married towards simistic. territory this year.
jaunt and enjoy it immensely. Getting take a major chunk of your time on the
the end of this year if you are yet to Health this year: You will enjoy a bet‑ Career this year: Your interest and
a job done to the satisfaction of a sen‑ academic front, but will get you recog‑ marry. ter health this year as compared to last enthusiasm to perform will make you an
ior is likely to give you a great sense nition all the same. You will be able to year. However, the health of an aged extraordinary performer in your profes‑
of achievement. You may shortly own make some money on the side by 22nd April, 2018 family member may deteriorate and that sional circuit. You will be respected and
something expensive. Betting or spec‑ moonlighting or by some other means. Traits in you: The influence of your will make you bothered. You may end up rewarded for your work. You need to take
ruling planet Uranus makes you active, spending lot of money for the health the leadership responsibility to cement
ulat ion may bring you into big Romance is likely to give immense
practical, enthusiastic, courageous, issues of your family members. your position in your organization.
money. Health remains satisfactory. pleasure to some. You will find your‑ ambitious, and highly philosophical. You Finance this year: Your past invest‑ Romance this year: You may try and
CANCER: Donʼt get involved self more energetic this week than are very proud of your traditions, culture ments may yield a lot of money for you convert your long time romantic rela‑
in the personal life of othersʼ, usual. and rituals. You are highly religious and this year. You need to be extra cautions tionship to a married one. You will be
as it may not be appreciated. CAPRICORN: Some of you may have a very sharp mind. However, you while investing huge amounts as it is a enjoying a great life with your spouse
need to work on your impatient and bit risky to put money on unpredictable with lots of understanding, love, and
Financial front seems rosy. Those in begin to plan for a vacation,
stubborn behavior. things. Overall, you will enjoy a strong care. You need not get into any kind of
the creative field may have to spend after something important is Health this year: Your health will financial condition. argument with your beloved this year.
sleepless nights in completing some‑ over. Arranging a party or a function remain good throughout the year. You Career this year: You will be given
thing urgent. Dietary control will be a at home is most likely for some. There need to take utmost care of your health more responsibility this year as you have 27th April, 2018
to maintain it and remain fit. The health proved yourself to be an ef ficient Traits in you: Being influenced by
dire necessity in keeping your health is a good chance of catching the eye of
of your family members might be a con‑ resource for your employer. You may Mars, you are believed to be the master
intact. Lifestyle change may be need‑ someone who makes your pulse race! expect a promotion or salary hike later of a charismatic personality. You are
cern for you this year. Try and avoid
ed to keep fit. Your laziness on the Incomplete work may need to be com‑ your bad habits and start practicing this year. You should guide your ordi‑ courteous, courageous, energetic, realis‑
academic front threatens to negate pleted before you leave office, so pull yoga for the betterment of your health. nates to perform better and bring unex‑ tic, modest, and responsive. You follow
your hard work. up your socks! Planning an overnight Finance this year: You will be fortu‑ pected results for your organization. religion very keenly. However, you have
nate enough this year to be among Romance this year: If you are yet to be few problems in your attitude and that
LEO: Longing to meet your picnic to the countryside is likely and
financial gains. All you need to do is to in a relationship, this year is the ideal needs to be worked on for the better‑
near and dear ones may lead will prove most exciting. grab opportunities to earn money. You time to find a partner. You will get ample ment of your individuality.
to depression. Home front AQUARIUS: Something that will find plenty of earning opportunities support from your spouse in any critical Health this year: Though you would
requires your attention, so donʼt neg‑ you have been entrusted with around you. However, you have to work decision you have to take. You should not face any major health related issues,
lect it. Those seeking love will need to on the professional front may hard to gain that money. Overall, this show your love to your partner as it you should take extra care of your
year will give you financial stability and strengthens your relationship. health. Do not take unwanted risk of put‑
be more discerning and seek compat‑ not get completed in time. A rival may
security. ting your health in stake. Go for regular
ibility first. attempt to tarnish your image on the Career this year: You will get enough 25th April, 2018 medical checkups.
Driving down to a friendʼs place is social front. You may feel reluctant to opportunities in your professional life to Traits in you: As you are governed by Finance this year: You will be among
indicated. Those selling property may join a group of health nuts and miss prove yourself. You will create a better planet Neptune, you are blessed with major financial gains this year. You may
have to hunt for the right customers out on a chance to get back in shape. impression on your seniors or higher various positive characters. You are con‑ go for a real estate transaction later this
management, which may result in pro‑ fident, decisive, generous, humorous, year and this will bring you a lot of
for a good bargain. Your focus may Travel may have its share of woes this
motion. You should work efficiently to honest, modest and optimistic. You are money to cherish. You may start up a
waver on the academic front and week, so be careful. You will need to maintain your respect at your work‑ not an admirer of arguments or silly new business. If you are already into
affect your performance. become more socially active by meet‑ space. fights. You should work on your nature business, you may plan for expanding its
VIRGO: You may have to keep ing people more often. Romance this year: You will share a of being selfish, pessimistic, and arro‑ territory this year.
blissful romantic relationship with your gant. Career this year: You will be over
an eye out for the rig ht PISCES: Some more time may
spouse or partner. Your marriage is on Health this year: You will enjoy a bet‑ ambitious as far as your career goals are
indication to resume some‑ be required for completing a ter health this year as compared to last concerned. Take time to plan your
cards if you are yet to marry. You will
thing at work. A change of lifestyle is task, so project it now. You are find your partner supportive enough in year. However, the health of an aged career. Do not be in a hurry for a job
likely to give some immense health likely to shake your lethargy off and every crucial situation. family member may deteriorate and that change. You will improve your skills and
benefits. go whole hog in achieving something will make you bothered. You may end up expertise. You will find your work pretty
Those feeling a bit suffocated in the important on the work front. Your self‑ 23rd April, 2018 spending lot of money for the health interesting and it will give you the job
Traits in you: Your ruling planet issues of your family members. satisfaction you wanted.
current profession will need to hold confidence will be apparent in a pres‑ Mercury makes you realistic, reliable, Finance this year: Your undisputed Romance this year: Your marital life
their horses for the time being. You entation and help clinch a deal. Some sincere, and optimistic. You are the mas‑ energy and enthusiasm to earn money will go on smoothly with the gradually
may not be satisfied with your finan‑ of you will succeed in stabilising your ter of an excellent memory power and will make you financially stable this growing understanding between you
cial situation and think out ways to income. Something special is on the charismatic characteristics. You need not year. You may go for property sale this and your spouse. You will get enough
get nervous at tough time as it may cre‑ year and earn a lot of money. support from your partner whenever
enhance your earning. Family may anvil for you on the romantic front. A
ate a question mark on your capabilities. Career this year: Professionally you you are in a problem. If you are yet to
not be too eager to let you go and set‑ comfortable journey is envisaged for Health this year: Your health will will enjoy a smooth life. You may get marry, you may need to wait for another
tle someplace else. those travelling by road. remain good throughout the year. You recognition in your professional circuit year.
30 April 21-27, 2018 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS TheSouthAsianTimes.info
I
clutching and praying for this
f we were to look down upon monalities than differences. The
thing and that. It is a time in
this physical world from a high common core of each is the same.
which we sit in a state of stillness
vantage point, we would find They believe in a higher power,
and surrender to Godʼs will. It is a
the light of billions of souls shim‑ although called by different
chance to let go of all our wants
mering throughout the world. names, which created all of us.
and desires. We merely sit in a
Like a foaming sea, they move They also believe that we have a
receptive mood and ask God to
about from one life to another, spiritual core within us created by
grant what is best for us. We will
from one form of living thing to the higher Power. They also speak
find that God will give us much
another. All the souls, when seen of tapping into this spiritual side
more than we had expected.That
in their true perspective, are the of ourselves through prayer, med‑
is the secret to enlightened living.
same. They are all a part of God's itation, or inversion to uncover
Through meditation, we will
consciousness; they are all Light, our Source. While language, termi‑
find the treasure of spiritual
and they all have an innate bliss. nology, and customs differ, at the
pearls to enlightened living that
But if we look at the condition of heart of all are practices that con‑
will bring us peace, happiness,
our world, we are appalled and nect our true essence, the soul,
and bliss. God wants us to live in
shocked by the suffering and pain with the higher Power.
eternal peace and bliss in the spir‑
each form of life is undergoing. Saints, Masters, spiritual teach‑
(Image courtesy: stockphotos.ro) itual realm.
We find strife and dissension ers, and enlightened beings, such
as Buddha, Jesus Christ, Mahavira,
throughout the world. We find “See! You are a lion,” the older prayer to God to give us whatever The essence
countries at war. Many nations Moses, Krishna, Rama, Guru lion told him. “That is who you is good for us.
are embroiled in internal conflicts. Nanak, Kabir, Maulana Rumi, really are.” Time and again, whenever we of religion
We see religious groups at odds St.Teresa of Avila, Mira Bai, Hazur We are in the same predicament demand something from God that Saints from every religion teach
with each other. Community strife Baba and many others came to as the lion. We think we are the is continually denied to us, it is the same truth. They help us find
is widespread. Even within fami‑ help connect people of their times body and the mind. We do not usually because we are asking for the common elements in each.
lies we find discord and disharmo‑ with the divine within them. realize that we are soul. We are something that is not good for us They have love and respect for
ny. We find human beings killing To understand the role of saints not sheep; we are lions̶true sons ultimately. other great saints and the world's
various forms of life, including and Masters, there is a story and daughters of the Divine. The There have been many instances religions. They recognize that
other human beings. about a lion cub that became lost stillness of meditation is the in which people prayed to God for
they are teaching the same Truth.
We wonder how there can be so from its mother. A mother sheep reflecting pool in which we can something, and God did not grant
Although outer languages, cul‑
much pain and turmoil caused by found the lion cub frightened and see who we really are. When our their wish. Later they came to
tures, customs, and the way of
people who have within them the alone in the wilderness. Out of body and mind are still, learn that receiving the wish
dressing and greeting may differ
same divinity of God. This seem‑ compassion, the sheep took the We can see our own true self as would not have been a good thing
from country to country, the
ing "fragmentation" of God into so cub and raised her as her very soul. after all. Will a mother allow the
essence of religions is the same:
many souls was meant to bring an own. The cub grew up with the Meditation is a practical method child to have poison? The child
there is one God, we are children
increase in the Lord's happiness. other sheep and began acting like in which we can discover our true may cry for it and throw a
of one Creator, and our purpose is
Just as a couple bear children to them. Crying, “Baaah, baaah,” it self as soul and achieve spiritual tantrum, but if it is poison, the
to know ourselves, know God, and
increase their mutual love and joy, even began to believe it was also a consciousness by reuniting our mother will not grant it. Instead
love all.
so did God bring about the cre‑ sheep. soul with the higher Power. It is a the mother will give the child
ation of so many souls, so many One day, a lion came by and way to discover our true purpose what is best for him or her. The
children. Yet the result is far from thought it strange to hear this in life and to reach the goal of child may not realize it at the time,
Sant Rajinder Singh Ji
what was intended. We who are young lion baaahing like a sheep. enlightenment in this lifetime. In but as the child grows and learns,
Maharaj is an internationally
moving packets of bliss and all‑ The lion asked, “Why are you this way, we can uncover who we the child is grateful for all the
recognized spiritual leader
consciousness are aware of great making sounds like you are a really are and can truly say that things the mother denied him or
and Master of Jyoti
pain and torment. sheep?” The young lion said, we know ourselves. her that were ultimately not good.
Meditation who affirms the
If we could return to our true “Because I am a sheep.” Many people are anxious about
state and realize we are soul, we The lion said, “Come with me.” It Enlightened living making choices. The way to be
transcendent oneness at the
heart of all religions and
would find lasting peace and brought the young lion to a pool There is a quotation by the sure we make the right choices
mystic traditions, emphasizing
ecstasy. If we could tap deeply of water. “Look down into the still great Greek philosopher, Socrates. about what to pray for is to pray ethical living and meditation
within ourselves, penetrating pool,” said the lion. When the He said, “Our prayers should be that God gives us what is best for as building blocks for
beyond the outer form of this young lion looked down, it for blessings in general, for God us. God makes no mistake. Rather achieving inner and outer
physical body and mind, we would jumped back startled to see a knows best what is good for us.” than pray for something that may peace. www.sos.org.
find a wellspring of eternal peace lionʼs face staring back at it.” This quote coincides with the or may not be the best for us, let
TheSouthAsianTimes.info April 21-27, 2018
TheSouthAsianTimes.info April 21-27, 2018