The South Asian Times

e x c e l l e n c e i n j o u r n a l i s m
Vol.12 No. 35 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 80 Cents New York Edition Follow us on TheSouthAsianTimes.info

ʻRing of fireʼ solar eclipse seen over Asia Blindsided on CAA,

S
kywatchers from Saudi on weather condit ions, this
Arabia and Oman to
India and Pakistan and
Singapore were treated to a rare
year's astronomical phenome‑
non was set to be visible from
the Middle East across southern
Modi govt now in
"ring of fire" solar eclipse on
Thursday.
Annular eclipses occur when
India and Southeast Asia before
ending over the northern
Pacific.
damage control mode
the Moon is not close enough to T he next annual eclipse in
the Earth to completely obscure June 2020 will be visible to a
the Sun, leaving a thin ring of narrow band from Africa to
the solar disc visible. northern Asia. The following
While these types of eclipses A picture of the solar eclipse one in June 2021 will only be
occur every year or two, they taken from Saudi Arabia. seen in the Arctic and parts of
are only visible from a narrow can be decades before the same Canada, Greenland and the
band of Earth each time and it pattern is repeated. Depending remote Russian far east.

Indiaʼs envoy to US named

new foreign secretary BJP leaders have been taken aback by the backlash,
some party members told Reuters.
New Delhi: Indiaʼs ambassador to diplomatic career spanning 35 New Delhi: Prime Minister
Narendra Modi's government did
4 Readying olive branch
the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, years, he has served as an ambas‑
not anticipate the protests against for agitating students?
was named by the government on sador to Bangkok from 2014 to
Monday as the next foreign secre‑ 2016 and later as a Hig h the new citizenship law that have 4 Indian Americans rally
tary and he will take over from Commissioner to Dhaka for two raged across the country and is for and against CAA
Vijay Gokhale who is complete his years. He has also served at now trying to control the damage, and NRC
two‑year term in late January. UNESCO in France, UN in New members of the ruling BJP have
said, reported India Today. ship to immigrants from non‑
Shringla, who took over as the York besides Vietnam, Israel and
In PM Modi's biggest challenge Muslim minorities who have fled
envoy in Washington in January, is Continued on page 4
since taking of fice in 2014, hun‑ Afg hanistan, Bang ladesh and
a career diplomat. He is an officer
Amb. Harsh Vardhan Shringla will dreds of thousands have protested Continued on page 4
of the 1984 batch of the Indian
join his new post in late January. against the law of fering citizen‑ Also see pages 5 and 12.
Foreign Service (IFS). During a

Pope Francis appeals for Trump slams Pelosi

peace in Xmas Day speech for delaying impeach
Rome: In his Christmas Day
address, Pope Francis has urged
the Catholic faithful to embrace
trial in Senate
Washington: President Donald
the "light of Christ" to help end
Trump lashed out at Democrats
conflict and injustice around the
and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi
world, reported CNN.
in a series of tweets Thursday
Speaking from the Vatican bal‑
morning, calling for a primary
cony on Wednesday, the Holy
challenge for "Crazy Nancy,"
Father prayed for people struck
denouncing her San Francisco
by war, political instability, natu‑
district as "filthy" and "dirty" and
ral disasters and disease among
saying the "bogus impeachment
other hardships. He mentioned
scam" made it more difficult for
several places including Syria, Christmas celebrated the
Continued on page 4
Continued on page 4 world over – see page 2
See related stories on pg 10 & 11.

HUMOR 18 GEOPOLITICS 19 IMMIGRATION 27 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS 30 excellence in journalism

2 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 CHRISTIANITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Some vignettes of Christmas celebrated the world over

Pope Francis
kisses a Dyker Heights
figurine of in NYC lights
baby Jesus up at
during a mass Christmas,
on Christmas with elaborate
eve on displays and
December 24, vibrant colors
2019 at St dominating
Peter's the doorsteps,
basilica in front yards and
the Vatican. footpaths of
this Brooklyn
(Photo
neighborhood.
courtesy AFP)

People from
across India
were seen
offering
midnight
prayers in
church aisles
even as
Christian
monuments
and shrines
were decked
up in bright
colors. Britain's Queen Elizabeth poses after recording her annual Christmas Day
message in Windsor Castle, Berkshire, Britain. In the message she acknowl‑
edged that 2019 has been ʻquite bumpyʼ for her country. (Photo : Reuters).

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TheSouthAsianTimes.info TRISTATE COMMUNITY Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 3

Jayapal terms Jaishankar

Anil Bansal elected refusing to meet her as
FIA President
Edison NJ: Anil Bansal, founder‑
'a sign of weakness'
Washington: Rep. Pramila Jayapal
(D‑Wash.) is hitting back after
Execut ive Chairman of Indus reports India's foreign minister
American Bank, has been elected declined a congressional meeting
President of the Federation of she was slated to attend, with the
Indian Asso ciat ions (FIA‑ lawmaker calling the move a "sign
NY/NJ/CT) for 2020 at their annu‑ of weakness."
al general body meeting held on It was reported last week that
December 17 at TV Asia Indian External Af fairs Minister S.
Auditorium, Edison, NJ. Jaishankar was slated to meet with
The new executive team includes a bipartisan group of lawmakers, Rep. Pramila Jayapal is the
Himanshu Bhatia ‑ Executive Vice but refused to do so because sponsor of a bipartisan
President, Saurin Parikh ‑ Vice resolution in Congress on
Jayapal was part of the group.
President, Praveen Bansal ‑ General
Kashmir.
Jayapal, who was born in India, is
Secretary, Mardavi Patel ‑ Joint Anil Bansal (3rd from right) with his executive committee that
the sponsor of a bipartisan resolu‑ cisms to participate in a meeting ̶
includes outgoing President Alok Kumar (3rd from left).
Secretary and Amit Ringasia – tion urging the country to end com‑ a giant missed opportunity for two
FIA‑Tristate is celebrating its milestone 50th year in 2020.
Treasurer. munications restrictions and mass countries that value dialogue and
Alok Kumar, the outgoing President‑Elect Anil Bansal is a including a jamboree of festivities detentions in the Jammu and dissent," Jayapal added.
President, commended the support distinguished community leader while continuing service to the Kashmir regions. She wrote that the U.S. must
he received from his committee, and an philanthropist; his Bansal diaspora. She wrote in a Washington Post "advocate for human rights around
sponsors, and supporters to make Charitable Foundation provides Ramesh Patel, Chairman of FIAʼs op‑ed Monday that she was told the world."
2019 a remarkable year for FIA. financial support to many non‑ Board of Trustees, congratulated that the resolution was the reason "As a member of Congress and as
He detailed 28 community focused profits in the USA. Based in New the 2019 team for a wonderful Jaishankar refused to meet her. an Indian American, I will continue
assistance programs and events Jersey, he is a successful entrepre‑ parade and activities that positive‑ "It is wholly inappropriate for any to speak out on fundamental princi‑
held under his Presidency. neur with real estate holdings ly impacted the community. foreign government to try to dictate ples of democracy such as freedom
President‑Elect Anil Bansal will across America as well as a signifi‑ FIA is the oldest and largest non‑ which members of Congress partici‑ of the press, religious freedom and
take oath of office at FIAʼs upcom‑ cant portfolio of investments in the profit grassroots umbrella organi‑ pate in meetings on Capitol Hill," due process. Protecting these rights
ing Republic Day Dance Pe Chance IT industry. He has been an inte‑ zation comprising of diversified the lawmaker wrote. ̶ particularly in the most difficult
event on January 25, 2020 to be gral part of FIA serving in various Indian associations and serves as "Itʼs also a sign of weakness for of circumstances ̶ is the only way
held at a bigger venue, the War roles. He has promised FIA scal‑ the voice of the Indian diaspora. any great democracy to refuse to democracies can survive and
Memorial Theater in Trenton, NJ. ing new heights in FIAʼs 50th year, Website: www.fianynjct.org allow those who have some criti‑ thrive," the lawmaker concluded.

Trump Jr to go on book tour to woo Indian

Americans for his fatherʼs re‑election
Washington: Donald Trump Jr, the eldest based advisor on global real estate invest‑
son and fierce defender of President
Donald Trump, plans to embark on a book
ments, said that Trump Jr, accompanied by
his girlfriend, TV star Kimberly Guilfoyle, President Trump meets
tour through several US cities to engage plan to visit places such as New York,
w ith the Indian‑American
community next year, PTI
Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Los
Ange les, Silicon Valley,
Rajnath Singh, Jaishankar
R
reported Sunday. Atlanta, Seattle, and Miami e flect ing his deep interest in He and Rajnath Singh shared with the
T he first such event in which have a large presence of strengthening India‑US relation‑ President some of the key highlights of the
Hicksville, hosted by Shudh the Indian community. ship, President Donald Trump last 2+2 meeting they had with Secretary of
Parkash Singh, was very well “All of these events are being Wednesday met visiting Defense Minister State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary
received. organized in partnership with Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Mark Esper.
The organizers said Trump leading leaders and organiza‑ S Jaishankar. During the half hour meeting Jaishankar said the president was very
Jr. is very impressed by the tions of the Indian‑American in the Oval Of fice, the president recalled positive about the relationship and enthusi‑
electric reception his father community,” said Mason. his appearance at the Howdy Modi event in astic about the various aspects. The issue of
received at the ʻHowdy, Modiʼ “T hey ( Trump Jr and Houston. trade came up as part of the larger agenda,
event in Houston in Guilfoyle) are my friends, and The meeting was largely in the nature of he said.
September and that the book tour is they really respect and love the Indian‑ a courtesy call, Jaishankar said Friday as he The meeting took place on a day when
planned to take advantage of it in an elec‑ American community. Iʼm on this just to w inded up his three‑day visit to Trump was being impeached by the House
tion year. Trump Jrʼs book “Triggered” continue strengthening ties between the Washington DC to attend the 2+2 meeting. of Representatives.
released in November is on the New York US and India,” Mason said. Notably, during
Times bestseller lists. Donald Trumpʼs presidential campaign, temples and holding meetings with them. promised that he would be India and
Al Mason, the brain behind the outreach members of his family, engaged with the At a rally for Indian Americans in New Indian Americansʼ best friend in the White
to Indian Americans, who is a New York‑ Indian‑American community by visiting Jersey in October 2016, Trump himself House.
 4 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 TURN PAGE TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Blindsided on CAA, Modi govt for and against the contentious CAA and
now in damage control mode NRC (National Register of Citizens).
Continued from page 1
Pakistan. At least 21 people have died in Trump slams Pelosi for
clashes with police. delaying impeach trial in
Ruling BJP leaders were taken aback by Senate
the backlash, some party members told Continued from page 1
Reuters. They said they had been prepared him to deal with foreign leaders. Trump
for some anger from Muslims, but not the quoted conservat ive commentator
widespread protests that have convulsed Bradley Blakeman as saying Pelosi had
most major cities for two weeks. Now the "no leverage over the Senate," a refer‑
party and the government are reaching out ence to the impasse over the transmis‑
for help in defusing the crisis to allies and sion of articles of impeachment to the
opponents sidelined when the bill passed Senate, which the House passed against
earlier this month, the sources said. Trump on Dec. 18 on charges of abuse of
"I really did not see the protests coming power and obstruction of Congress.
... not just me, other BJP lawmakers were Pelosi said she would not send the arti‑
also unable to predict this kind of anger," cles over until the Senate determined its
Union Minister Sanjeev Balyan told process for a trial. Senate Majority leader
Reuters. Mitch McConnell said last week that
Three other BJP lawmakers and two Republicans and Democrats were at an
December 22 was declared World Blood Donor Arjun Mainali Day in Town of Oyster
Bay in Long Island. TOBAY Supervisor Joseph Saladino presented the Proclamation Union ministers, who spoke on condition of "impasse."
to Mainali who has set many records for blood donations and has promoted anonymity, said they were mobilizing party
the same in many countries. supporters from all walks of life to start Indiaʼs envoy to US named
community dialogues and dispel discontent new foreign secretary
over the law and NRC. "I believe that the Continued from page 1

US sent 4 spy planes to political math behind the clearance of this

law was not taken into account," said one
South Africa. He served in the Ministry of
External Af fairs (MEA) as Joint Secretary
for Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and
of the ministers.
Korean Peninsula after Kimʼs "We are all in damage control mode," said
the other Union minister, adding that the
Maldives. He was also instrumental in
steering the America policy with External

ʻChristmas giftʼ threat BJP and allies have launched a campaign to Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He was criti‑
explain that the law is not discriminatory. cal in ensuring that the decisions of Article
After BJP's closed‑door huddle on 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act
Washington: In what military watchers while the Global Hawk flew at 53,000 feet, Thursday on swinging the public percep‑ (CAA) do not adversely impact bilateral
regard as an unusual move, the U.S. military the tracking site said. Meanwhile, the Cobra tion on CAA in its favor, the government relations between India and USA.
sent four surveillance planes, simultaneously, Ball and a refueling plane flew over the East has planned a major outreach to extend an KV Kumar, President & CEO, Indian
over and around the Korean Peninsula this Sea. Earlier this month, Ri Thae Song, a North olive branch to agitating students who they American Internat ional Chamber of
week in reaction to North Koreaʼs cryptic ref‑ Korean vice foreign minister for U.S. affairs, consider as "genuine" protesters. The gov‑ Commerce (IAICC), commended Amb.
erence to a possible “Christmas gift” for the expressed doubts that the U.S. was negotiat‑ ernment wishes Minority Affairs Minister Shringla for the tremendous positive
U.S. The action followed reports last week ing in good faith, accusing the Americans Muqhtar Abbas Naqvi to lead the outreach, impact made during his short tenure with
that North Korea had warned of a possible instead of stalling as it tried to get better say sources. the US Government, private and public sec‑
missile launch or nuclear test for late terms. Sources say the government is actively tors, and Indian American community
December amid stalled nuclear negotiations “The dialogue touted by the U.S. is, in mulling options to "remove" names of organizations in the US.
with the U.S. The U.S. aircraft were detected essence, nothing but a foolish trick hatched to those students who were "booked wrong‑
by Aircraft Spots, an aviation tracking site, keep the DPRK bound to dialogue and use it ly". The government believes that many Pope Francis appeals
according to a report by South Koreaʼs in favor of the political situation and election agitating students were caught in the for peace in Xmas
Yonhap News Agency. in the U.S.,” Ri said. “What is left to be done crossfire between the police and those "ele‑ Day speech
The site claims that four U.S. planes – iden‑ now is the U.S. option ‑‑ and it is entirely up ments" who sparked off the violence. Continued from page 1
tified as RC‑135W Rivet Joint, E‑8C, RQ‑4 to the U.S. what Christmas gift it will select to The closed‑door meeting at the BJP head‑ Lebanon, Iraq, Venezuela and Ukraine ‑‑
Global Hawk and RC‑135S Cobra Ball – flew get.” President Trump has downplayed the quarters in Delhi was chaired by BJP's while calling for peace. "There is darkness in
their missions between Christmas Eve and matter, despite urging from some analysts working president J.P. Nadda. human hearts, yet the light of Christ is
early Christmas Day, the report said. and advisers in Washington that he take a Meanwhile, Indian Americans in different greater still," the Pope told the thousands
The first two planes flew at 31,000 feet harder line against Pyongyang. parts of America have been holding rallies gathered in St. Peter's Square.

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TheSouthAsianTimes.info TRISTATE COMMUNITY Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 5

Washington, DC: A large number of

Indian‑Americans have come out in
support of the amended citizenship
law and the proposed National
Indian‑Americans hold rallies in support
Register of Citizens, holding rallies in
several US cities to "dispel misinfor‑
mation and myths" surrounding the
of CAA, NRC in US to dispel myths
contentious law, the organizers of the myths" surrounding the law as well Modi. The participants demanded
demonstrations have said. as to counter the propaganda of hate, (Photo source: opindia.com) strict punishment to protestors found
According to the Citizenship lies and downright absurdities, the involved in destroying public proper‑
Amendment Act (CAA), members of organizers said. Indian‑Americans ty and targeting police personnel in
Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and held a pro‑CAA rally in Seattle in India, and not spare the mastermind
Christian communities who have December at Victor Steinbrueck Park, behind these activities.
come from Pakistan, Bangladesh and in Austin on December 22 near Ashok K Karmakar, chairman of
Afghanistan till December 31, 2014, Capitol Building and in Houston on Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian
following religious persecution there December 20 in front of the Indian Unity Council (BHBCUC), USA wel‑
will get Indian citizenship. Consulate, they said. comed the enactment of the CAA.
Protests are being held across India The rallies were also held in Dublin, "While this piece of legislation
ever since the citizenship bill was Ohio, on December 22 at Ted would help to uphold human rights
introduced in Parliament earlier this Kaltenbach Park and in Raleigh from India," said Vineet Goel, one of "Instead of having civil debate of the people (Hindu, Buddhist,
month. T he bill was passed by North Carolina on December 22 at the organizers of Dublin Ohio rally. based on facts, some organizations Christian, Jain, Sikhs and Parsis) who
Parliament and signed into law by Nash Square Park. Several other Archana Sunil, one of the organizers are bent on subverting any discourse have been persecuted for their reli‑
the President. demonstrations are being planned in of the Seattle rally, said the oppo‑ or the truth, by spreading completely gious beliefs in countries like
T he government on Tuesday the coming weeks in Dallas, Chicago, nents of the CAA and the NRC were absurd lies and what is lost in their Bangladesh, Pakistan and
approved nearly Rs 12,700 crore for San Francisco, New York City, misinformed and did not want to talk discourse is the plight of those who Afghanistan, and have been living an
carrying out the Census 2021 and Washington DC, Atlanta, San Jose, about facts or listen to the facts. suffered untold sufferings since the inhuman and uncertain life in India
the National Population Register and other locations, the organizers Houstonians came out in big num‑ partition of India," he alleged. for many many years, we also believe,
(NPR) and made it clear that NPR has said."We held this rally to counter the bers in support of the CAA aimed at More than 70 eminent doctors and the law and the Constitution of India
no relation with the contentious fear‑mongering of Islamic and leftist providing relief to oppressed minori‑ community leaders joined the rally in will protect the rights of many
National Register of Citizens amidst organizations about the CAA and the ties (Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and Raleigh in North Carolina. Muslims from those countries and
stiff opposition against the NRC. NRC and their bizarre statements Buddhists) in Pakistan, Bangladesh Arvind Modhini, a participant, said elsewhere who are being persecuted
These rallies are aimed at "dis‑ that the NRC in combination with the and Afghanistan, said Achalesh Amar, they came together to extend their for their political opinions,"
pelling the misinformation and CAA is designed to expel Muslims spokesperson for the Houston rally. support to Prime Minister Narendra Karmakar said in a statement. (PTI)

Infosys settles visa case with California for $ 800,000 23 % South Asians in US
Bengaluru: Global software major IT firm and its subsidiary (Infosys admit to no wrong‑doing in the
Infosys on Wednesday said it
reached an out‑of‑court settlement
BPM Ltd) had employed about 500
techies in California on B‑1 visas
case," asserted the $11‑billion out‑
sourcing firm.
found diabetic: New study
for $800,000 with the California rather than H‑1B visas between "T he settlement shows that Chicago, IL: Diabetes prevalence South Asians.” Cardiovascular dis‑
Attorney General on charges related 2006 and 2017. attempting to evade California law (diagnosed and undiagnosed) was ease is the leading cause of death in
to the alleged violation of B‑1 visa "This misclassification resulted in does not pay. Infosys brought in found to be 23.3% for South Asians the U.S., spending over $500 billion
rules by it to its techies. Infosys avoiding California payroll workers on the wrong visas in order in an important research on South on cardiovascular disease each year.
"Our agreement concludes the taxes such as unemployment insur‑ to underpay them and avoid paying Asian cardiometabolic disease pub‑ AAPI and AACIO immediately held
California Attorney General's inves‑ ance, disability insurance and taxes. With this settlement, lished in the Journal of the a joint meeting the same day that
tigation into the allegations related employment training taxes. H‑1B California has been made whole," American Medical Association the study results were unveiled (Dec
to the payment of state payroll visas also require employers to pay asserted Becerra in the statement. (JAMA) by Cheng YJ, Kanaya AM, 20), reflecting the urgency. Dr.
taxes for some employees traveling workers at the local prevailing A whistleblower who brought Araneta MRG, et al titled Brahma Sharma, a prominent cardi‑
on B‑1 visas dating back to 2006," wage," said Becerra in a statement Infosys' conduct to the attention of “Prevalence of Diabetes by Race and ologist affiliated with VA University
Infosys Company Secretary A.G.S. sourced by IANS here. the Attorney General's Of fice will Ethnicity in the United States, 2011‑ of Pittsburgh and serving as the
Manikantha said in a regulatory fil‑ The settlement will result in the receive 15 percent of the settlement 2016” The American Association of Chair of the AAPI Ad Hoc
ing on the BSE. case being dismissed with prejudice pursuant to the California False Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) Committee on South Asian
California Attorney General and was reached to avoid time, Claims Act. The company, however, together with the American Cardiovascular Disease, led the
Xavier Becerra said from expense and distraction of protract‑ declined to confirm to IANS the Association of Cardiologists of meeting in which Dr. Trivedi and Dr.
Sacramento that Infosys would pay ed litigation on the charges against amount it paid, including taxes and Indian Origin (AACIO) jointly Bhatt participated alongside the cur‑
the western state $800,000 to the city‑based IT behemoth. penalty, if any, to settle the visa acknowledge that the data generat‑ rent President of AAPI, Dr. Suresh
resolve the charges that the Indian "We dispute the allegations and fraud case out‑of‑court. ed by these authors has far‑reaching Reddy, a neuroradiologist. Dr. Navin
implications for the South Asian Nanda, MD, DSc (Hon),

GOPIO‑CT elects new team at community with respect to diabetes

and cardiovascular disease.
“The 23% reflects a critical need
Distinguished Professor of Medicine
and Cardiovascular Disease at the
University of Alabama at

annual general body meeting for aggressive action towards better

prevention and management of dia‑
betes along with the accompanying
Birmingham, and an internationally
renowned cardiologist,
Hanumant K. Reddy, current
Dr.
Stamford, CT: GOPIO‑CT organized its annual holi‑
day party and fundraiser for a local charity on cardiovascular risk,” stated Dr. President of AACIO, and Dr. Vishal
December 13 at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Kamini Trivedi, a family physician, Gupta, President‑Elect of AACIO,
Stamford. The group also held its annual election lipidologist, and honorary Board have of fered their leadership on
with a new team taking over headed by Ashok Member of AACIO. behalf of AACIO in conjunction with
Nichani as president, Srinivas Akarapu as ex. VP, In addition, Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, AAPIʼs leadership towards address‑
Prasad Chintalapudi as VP, Dr. Rajneesh Misra as MPH, Executive Director of ing these challenges.
secretary, Biru Sharma as treasurer and Meera Interventional Cardiovascular AAPI and AACIO conducted pre‑
Banta as joint secretary Anita Bhat will continue in Services at Brigham and Womenʼs liminary brainstorming on strategy
the EC as immediate past president. Two trustees Hospital and Professor of Medicine and will now work with increased
elected were Shelly Nichani and Bhavna Juneja. at Harvard Medical School stated, collaboration to educate both physi‑
GOPIO‑CT Holiday Party also served as a “These valuable data demonstrate cians and the U.S. South Asian
fundraiser for local charity, Childrenʼs Learning the incredibly high, vastly underap‑ community.
Center. An amount of $5,000 was donated to the preciated burden of diabetes among Education about lifestyle modifi‑
charity and was presented to its chief executive offi‑ South Asians. Particularly distress‑ cation, including culturally appro‑
cer Marc E. Jaffe. In the previous years, GOPIO‑has ing is how many South Asians have priate nutrition and physical activi‑
GOPIO‑CT officials presenting raised funds for other charities, Women's Mentoring diabetes without even knowing it. ty, along with guideline‑recom‑
a check to Childrenʼs Learning Center Network of Stamford, Future 5 of Stamford and This phenomenon is surely fueling mended medical therapy will be the
CEO Marc E. Jaffe Teach for America, a national organization. the cardiovascular epidemic among foundation of educational efforts.
6 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 LOCAL GOVT TheSouthAsianTimes.info

IN BRIEF

Undocumented immigrants in Suffolk County Police sing Christmas

NJ to get driverʼs licenses carol to warn locals of car thefts
I T
mmigrants in New Jersey without for‑ vital part of our state and our economy," he holidays are a
mal legal status will be allowed to get Murphy said. time of shopping
state driver's licenses after Gov. Phil “We should acknowledge that many and gift‑giving,
Murphy signed a bill to do that capping immigrant residents are already behind the which can also mean a time
years of pressure from activists and sup‑ wheel, and on our roads going to work and for increased thefts. That's
porters. The bill signing came three days school or simply to the grocery store ... you why Suffolk County Police
after the Assembly and Senate, both con‑ havenʼt been asking for special treatment, released a PSA remind peo‑
trolled by Democrats, passed the measure, you have been asking us to acknowledge ple to stay safe from thefts
which had been stalled despite months of your reality." In New Jersey, state lawmak‑ ‑ with a unique twist.
demonstrations across the state. State offi‑ ers introduced the latest version of the bill In a video posted on the
cials have said they expect it will take at late last year. police department's
least a year before the actual licenses are The bill would allow for two types of YouTube page, members
issued. Hundreds of immigrants, many who licenses: one compliant with the federal sang the classic carol, The
likely will benefit from the new law, Real ID Act that would let users board Twelve Days of Christmas,
cheered Murphy at Snyder Academy in domestic flights, and one strictly for driving but changed the lyrics so
Elizabeth, where nearly two years ago a that would be issued to immigrants without that instead of describing
coalition of organizations launched the legal status, certain senior citizens and oth‑ what "my true love sent to
Letʼs Drive NJ campaign that aimed to get ers who lack documentation. A Youtube videograb of the members
me," the song described
singing the carol (Image courtesy: patch.com)
support for the controversial measure. New Jersey became the 15th state along what criminals "stole from
“Today, is a simple recognition that our with Washington, D.C., to make driver's thee." The message is meant to warn are busy holiday shopping and often
immigrant communities, each of you are a licenses available. (source: usatoday.com) people of the community to lock their leave valuables in their vehicles," Chief
cars to avoid becoming a victim of theft. of Department Stuart Cameron said.

After criticism, Laura Curranʼs husband In 2019, police responded to 2,066 lar‑
cenies for car in Suffolk County. Last
"We thought this parody would be a fun
way to get a serious message across to

withdraws from MTA appointment year, Suffolk Police handled 2,329 inci‑
dents of thefts from cars.
residents̶lock your vehicle and keep
your valuables out of sight."

N
"This is the time of year that people (source: patch.com)
assau County Executive Laura tion, had no immediate comment, nor did
Curranʼs husband will no longer Laura Curran.
serve as outside attorney for the
Metropolitan Transportation Authority
The board had hired the county execu‑
tiveʼs husband to represent it in potential Sen. Chuck Schumer warns that stores
board, following concerns about potential
conflicts of interest, the MTA confirmed on
conflicts with management. He was poised
to earn up to $240,000 a year. are selling recalled products in NYC & LI

C
Friday. “John is an extremely talented attorney,"
John Curran, the Walden Macht & Haran MTA spokesperson Abbey Collins said. "We onsumers in New York
partner whom the board tapped for the posi‑ respect the decision and wish him well." City and Long Island may
be wrapping potentially
dangerous gifts purchased from

NY AG sues EPA over clean water rule TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Home
Goods Brands. The items were

I
n her continued fight for environmental administration seeks to reverse decades of sold at more than 3200 stores
safety, New York State Attorney General progress weʼve made in fighting water pollu‑ across the US including stores
Letitia James filed a lawsuit Friday tion.” Jamesʼ suit targets the EPA and the located in New York City and on
against the Trump administration for rolling U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, claiming their Long Island.
back the Clean Water Act. Under Trump, the replacement of the original definition of pro‑ Products sold range from
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency final‑ tected waters “is arbitrary and capricious” clothes, toys, and electronics. The
ized a “recodification rule” in October that and a violation of the Administrative items had all been previously
repealed the Clean Water Rule, a regulation Procedure Act. James was joined by attor‑ recalled and consumers pur‑
issued during the Obama administration neys general in 13 other states, the District chased these items without any
Chuck Schumer
that protected lakes, rivers, streams and wet‑ of Columbia and the Corporation Counsel clue that they may be dangerous. (Image courtesy: nypost.com)
lands. The Recodification Rule changed the for the City of New York in her challenge to U.S. Senator Charles Schumer
will call for a federal investigation by bargains were allowed to become dan‑
Clean Water Ruleʼs definition of waters to be the Trump administration.
the Consumer Product Safety gerous gifts in the first place."
protected to exclude smaller or less‑flowing James is continuing her officeʼs legacy of
Commission (CPSC) into TJX Companies Schumer demands immediate conse‑
water such as headwater streams, tributaries taking the most legal action against the
Inc., which owns all three stores nation‑ quences, including company outreach
and wetlands. “This regressive rule ignores Trump administration over environmental
wide, including those in New York City to consumers & full refunds; the
science and the law and strips our waters of concerns, according to a recent study pub‑
and on Long Island. Senator also wants CPSC to begin for‑
basic protections under the Clean Water lished by the New York University School of
Schumer said during his press confer‑ mal investigation to prevent this in
Act,” James said. “Attorneys general across Lawʼs State Energy and Environmental
ence, "Feds must unwrap how holiday future.
this nation will not stand by as the Trump Impact Center.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL COMMUNITY Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 7

Alphabet new boss Sundar Trump picks Sethuraman Panchanathan

Pichai set to receive $240 to lead National Science Foundation
million stock package
Washington, DC: President Donald "As the Trump administration con‑
Trump has picked Indian‑American tinues its undeterred focus on
computer scientist Sethuraman ensuring American global leader‑
New York: Alphabet Panchanathan to lead the presti‑ ship in science and technology, Dr
Inc's new CEO Sundar gious National Science Foundation. Panchanathan's commitment, cre‑
Pichai is all set to The National Science Foundation ativity and deep insights will be
receive a staggering (NSF) is a US government agency instrumental in leading the
performance‑based that supports fundamental National Science Foundation on its
stock package of $240 research and education in all the continued path of exploration and
million over the next non‑medical fields of science and discovery," he said.
three years, the high‑ engineering. Its medical counter‑ Panchanathan is also the Vice
est‑ever offered to any part is the National Institutes of President for Strategic Initiatives of
executive, according to Health (NIH). "Dr. Sethuraman Sethuraman Panchanathan the National Academy of Inventors
a report by Reuters. Panchanathan brings to this posi‑ (NAI). In a statement,
But Pichai is no tion a wealth of experience in Of ficer at the Arizona State Panchanathan said he was "hum‑
stranger to such com‑ research, innovation, academic University (ASU). He is also the bled and honored" to be chosen as
pensation. In 2016 as administration, and policy as exem‑ Founding Director of the Centre for the NSF Director.
well, he saw his earn‑ plified by his long and distin‑ Cognitive Ubiquitous Computing at Panchanathan earned a bache‑
ings skyrocket follow‑ guished career," Ke lvin the ASU. Appointed to the National lor's degree in Physics from the
ing the $199 million Droegemeier, Director of the White Science Board (NSB) in 2014, University of Madras in 1981 and
he received in stock House Of fice of Science and Panchanathan served as the Chair in Electronics and Communication
awards at the time. Technolog y Policy, said on of the Committee on Strategy for Engineering from the Bangalore‑
Apart from this, Thursday. the NSB. He also served as a mem‑ based Indian Institute of Science
Pichai will also draw Panchanathan, 58, would suc‑ ber of the Nat ional Advisory (IISc) in 1984.
an annual paycheck of ceed France Cordova when her six‑ Council on Innovat ion and He then earned his master's
Sundar Pichai was named Alphabet CEO
$2 million start ing year term as the NSF Director ends Entrepreneurship. degree in Electrical Engineering
earlier this month in addition to his role
2020 onwards, as as Google's head in 2020. NSF Director is a Senate‑ "Dr Panchanathan brings numer‑ from the Indian Inst itute of
against the $1 salary confirmed position. ous achievements and well‑earned Technology‑Madras in 1986 and
that was drawn by Larry Page in Alphabet earlier this month, in Panchanathan is currently the recognition including from his role Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer
the same capacity last year. addition to his role as Google's Executive Vice President and the as a member of the Nat ional Engineering from Canada‑based
Pichai, 47, was named CEO of head. Chief Research and Innovation Science Board," Droegemeier said. University of Ottawa in 1989. (PTI)

Dr. Monisha Ghosh is Hindu American Foundation

first woman CTO of FCC launches ʻFight Hate:
Houston: Indian‑American Dr. Monisha
Ghosh has been appointed as the first
woman Chief Technology Of ficer at the
Educateʼ national campaign
US government's powerful Federal Washington, DC: The Hindu American dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism,”
Communications Commission. Foundation has announced the launch stated Suhag Shukla, Hindu American
She w ill advise Indian‑American of a nationwide campaign entitled Foundation Co‑Founder and Executive
Chairman of the FCC Ajit Pai and the ʻ F i g h t H a t e : E d u c a t e ʼ a s a d i r ec t Director.
agency on technology and engineering response to the rise in hate crimes As HAFʼs Executive Director, Suhag
issues, and work closely with the Office of against Hindus in America. Shukla is on the front lines represent‑
Engineering and Technology. Dr Ghosh The purpose of the campaign is to ing Hindu Americans in various ways.
will take charge on January 13 next year. promote a deeper understanding and She was appointed to the Department
She replaces Dr Eric Burger. broader awareness of Hinduism, of Homeland Securityʼs Subcommittee
The FCC regulates interstate and inter‑ including the culture, language, and for the Prevention of Targeted Violence
national communications by radio, televi‑ traditions of the Hindu American com‑ Against Faith‑Based Communities this
sion, wire, satellite and cable in all 50 munity. year, has served on the Council on
states, the District of Columbia and US ter‑ One of the ways in which HAF will Foreign Relations Religious Advisory
ritories. broaden the scope of HAFʼs advocacy Council since 2018, and the First
An independent US government agency to date is by empowering more Hindu Amendment Center's Committee on
overseen by Congress, the FCC is the fed‑ American community leaders across Religious Liberty.
eral agency responsible for implementing the US by providing them and the gen‑ The announcement of HAFʼs "Fight
Dr. Monisha Ghosh will advise Federal
and enforcing America's communications eral public with cutting edge program‑ Hate. Educate" campaign comes on the
Communications Commission chairman
law and regulations. Ajit Pai on tech and engineering issues ming, e f fect ive tools, easy‑to‑read hee ls of the FBI 2018 Hate Crime
"As the FCC moves aggressive ly to materials, and the training necessary to Statistics Report released in November
advance American leadership in 5G, Dr ful to her for serving in this important a d d r e s s t h e n eed s o f t h e H i n d u which documented 12 reported inci‑
Ghosh's deep technical knowledge of wire‑ position at this important time," he said. American community in 2020 and dents and 14 of fenses against Hindus
less technologies will be invaluable," said Dr. Ghosh received her Ph.D. in beyond. in the US in 2018.
Chairman Pai. Electrical Engineering from the University “HAF believes that the best way to This is an increase from 11 reported
"Dr. Ghosh has both conducted and of Southern California in 1991, and fight hate is to educate. That means incidents in 2017 and 10 incidents in
overseen research into cutting‑edge wire‑ B.Tech from the Indian Inst itute of creating materials for K‑12 students, 2016, marking the third straight year
less issues in academia and industry. Her Technology, Kharagpur in 1986. She is a parents, and the educational institu‑ of increased violence targeting Hindu
expertise is also broad, ranging from the Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and tions that support them, as well as Americans.
internet of things, medical telemetry, and Electronics Engineers. working with community leaders, law In 2019, HAF responded to several
broadcast standards. And it bears noting She is also a Research Professor at the enforcement, and government of ficials hate crime incidents, such as the van‑
that this is a historic appointment: I am University of Chicago, where she conducts to educate and properly guide them on dalism of the Hindu temple in
proud that Dr. Ghosh will be the FCC's research on wireless technologies for the the positive role they can play by gain‑ Louisville, Kentucky in January, and
first female CTO, and hope her example internet of things, 5G cellular, next‑gener‑ ing a thorough understanding of the brutal attack on a Hindu priest in
inspires young women everywhere to ation Wi‑Fi systems and spectrum coexis‑ Hinduism and our concepts of human Queens, New York in July.
consider careers in STEM fields. I'm grate‑ tence. (PTI)
 8 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 DIASPORA TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Sikh taxi driver brutally assaulted, Indian Nurses Association of NY

hit with barbeque grill conducts community health fair
Second such attack in less than a fortnight
Community
New York: A 57‑year‑old Indian‑ and he needed a ride. It looked sus‑ father in that condition, the KTVU Health Fair
origin Sikh taxi driver was brutally picious," Sidhu was quoted as say‑ reported. No slurs were used, no team at
assaulted and hit with a barbeque ing by the KTVU television station. money was robbed, but Gaganjot Physical
grill cover in the head in front of He told the man his shift was says her father was targeted Therapy
his home in California, media over. Then the suspect came back because of how he looks. booth
reports said. a third time and attacked Sidhu The Council on American‑Islamic
Baljeet Singh Sidhu, who works and hit him in the head with a bar‑ Relations (CAIR) expressed solidar‑
as a mail carrier and an Uber driv‑ beque g rill cover and then ity with the Sikh community, the
er, was attacked on Sunday while knocked down and choked. report said. "We condemn this New York: As part of its commit‑ Therapy which included technics
he was parking his car outside his There were cuts, bumps, and attack and express our solidarity ment to provide service to the com‑ for balancing, muscle strengthen‑
home near Hilltop Mall, Richmond, bruises on him. His family believes with the Sikh community," said munity and the society in general, ing, neuro‑motor coordination and
California, after finishing his the attack to be a hate crime, and Zahra Billoo, executive director of the Indian Nursing Association con‑ so on. Dr. Srihari Naidu, a well‑
duties, SFGate.com reported. he was assaulted because of his the San Francisco Bay Area office ducted a Community Health Fair in known cardiologist, and his physi‑
While he was parking his car, a Sikh turban and appearance, the of CAIR. Floral Park, NY. The event was col‑ cian wife conducted cardiac screen‑
man came up to his cab and asked SFGate reported. The attack is second such attack laborated by the Federation Of ing, electrocardiogram and provid‑
him for a lighter. Sidhu said he did‑ His daughter, Gaganjot Sidhu in a fortnight. Kerala Association In North ed heart‑health education. Several
n't have one and the man left, but said, "His turban was off and blood On December 5, An Indian‑origin America (FOKANA) and KCNA com‑ people were able to undergo dia‑
then he returned with another all over his face. It was the most Sikh taxi driver was assaulted and munity organizations and support‑ betes diagnostic screening known
request. terrifying thing I've ever seen. Like racially abused in Washington in a ed by Northwell Health, one of the as Haemoglobin A1c and educated
"He asked me and said he had $5 no daug hter wants to see her suspected hate crime. largest healthcare networks in the on metabolic problems, complica‑
United States. tions of diabetes, and health mainte‑
Indian Nurses Association of New nance through diet management.
Indian American
York (INANY) initiated this Health The soothing aromatic air in and
International Chamber of
Commerce (IAICCʼs) Fair with the goal of reaching out to around the wellness promotion
Western San Francisco the community to provide a com‑ booth invited the attendees to get
Regional Chapter, prehensive health screening and learn about coping mechanisms and
Northern California State education which included screening, relaxation technics to reduce every‑
Chapter, and Forum on assessment, and education to day stress. People learned that
Women in Business and increase awareness for leading a stress is part of daily life. Still, the
Leadership Western mindful life. impact of not managing stress
Regional Chapter was The four‑hour‑long event at Tyson would take a toll on our body and
launched on December Center in Floral Park, NY was mind. Cardiopulmonary resuscita‑
10 in San Francisco. At attended by about a hundred peo‑ tion training to the public was
the launch, the high‑level
ple. Professional staf f from another highlight of the event with
forum included Eleni
Northshore Health, the largest the goal of preparing the public to
Kounalakis, Lt. Governor
of California, Libby healthcare network in New York save lives in emergencies.
Schaaf, Mayor of state‑administered flu shot to those T he Education Committee of
Oakland, Ambassador that did not get it this year. At the INANY under the chair of Dr. Anna
Sanjay Panda, Consul General of India in San Francisco, Robyn Denholm, Tesla Chair, K V Kumar physical therapy booth, people George led the organization of this
President & CEO, IAICC Executive Board, Mary Huss, Publisher, and John China, President, SVB Capital. enjoyed the fun‑filled hands‑on Community Health Fair. INANY
Other distinguished guests including Lily Mei, Mayor of Fremont and Ash Kalra from California State learning activities with the thera‑ represents the Indian nurses and
Assembly Office were also present. pists from Marathon Physical nursing students in New York State.

US psychedelic pioneer & guru Ram Dass dies at 88

R
am Dass, a spiritual leader and pio‑ cybin, the compound responsible for the hal‑ taught him Hindu principles, meditation and
neer of the US psychedelic move‑ lucinogenic properties of some mushrooms. yoga.
ment, passed away at his home in Leary gave Ram Dass his first taste of Ram Dass returned to the US in 1968, at
Hawaii, aged 88. Born Richard Alpert, he psilocybin at a party. Ram Dass wrote of his the request of Maharaj‑ji, wearing white
worked with Timothy Leary in the 1960s on first experience: "The rug crawled and the robes, bearded and barefoot.
research into Lysergic acid diethylamide pictures smiled, all of which delighted me." He began lecturing across the US on spiri‑
(LSD), also known as acid, a hallucinogenic The two began experimenting on the ther‑ tuality, incorporating humor and principles
drug at Harvard before traveling to India apeutic uses of the compound, until 1963, from Hinduism, Buddhism and Sufism into
and studying spiritualism. when both were fired from Harvard ‑ Ram his teachings.
He was well known for his first book, Be Dass because he gave LSD to an undergrad‑ Be Here Now, published in 1971, was his
Here Now, which sold over two million Ram Dass's first book Be Here uate student and Leary for shirking his first book and became a popular guide to
copies. Ram Dass died peacefully at home, Now became a popular guide to teaching duties. New Age spirituality. Apple co‑founder Steve
New Age spirituality. Apple co‑founder
his foundation said, but he had suf fered Recreational LSD use became illegal in the Jobs was among those who lauded the book
Steve Jobs was among those who lauded
bouts of illness in recent years. US in 1968 as other studies suggested the as transformative.
the book as transformative.
Thousands expressed their condolences (Image : Dassima Kathleen Murphy) chemical could cause dangerous psychotic But in the 1980s, Ram Dass beg an
on social media. 2020 US presidential hope‑ reactions. attempting to shed his guru image. He
ful Marianne Williamson said Be Here Now chology at Harvard in 1958. During that Ram Dass began looking for alternative shaved his beard and robes but was unable
had a big influence on her. time, as he would later describe, he lived in ways to reach enlightenment and journeyed to drop his recognizable Hindi name. He also
American producer Judd Apatow also said an apartment full of antiques, drove a to India, where he studied under guru Neem disavowed some of his earlier praise of LSD.
Ram Dass "had an enormous impact on my Mercedes‑Benz, owned a Cessna plane and Karoli Baba, also known as Maharaj‑ji. He was a co‑founder of the Seva
life." Ram Dass was born into a wealthy vacationed in the Caribbean. Ram Dass gave the guru a high dose of Foundation, a nonprofit that provides eye
Jewish family in Boston, Massachusetts. His While at Harvard, Ram Dass met fellow LSD, but he showed no reaction, which led care, including surgery and glasses, in over a
father was president of a railroad company. professor Timothy Leary and the two Ram Dass to believe that the higher state of dozen countries.
In 1952, he earned a degree in psychology became friends. Leary helped popularise consciousness Maharaj‑ji had achieved could Ram Dass is the subject of the documen‑
at Tuft's College and his do ctorate at 1960s counter‑culture under the motto not be changed by drugs. tary Becoming Nobody, which was released
Stanford University in 1957. "turn on, tune in, drop out." Maharaj‑ji gave Ram Dass his name ‑ this year.
He began teaching and researching psy‑ Leary was researching the effects of psilo‑ which means servant of God in Hindi ‑ and (Source: bbc.co.uk)
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 9

New bill to propagate Gandhi‑King philosophy

Washington, DC: A new bill has been after Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther training initiative on conflict resolution,
intro duced in the US House of The bill proposes the King. with an allocation of $2 million for each
Representatives to strengthen bilateral House Speaker Nancy Pelosi a follower fiscal year from 2020 through 2025,
relations, affirm friendship with India by setting up of Gandhi‐King of Mahatma Gandhi recalled her interest implemented through the United States
enhancing shared values in education, Global Academy, which in the leader of Indiaʼs freedom struggle Institute of Peace (USIP).
conflict resolution, and development as during her school days during a function It also includes the Gand hi‑King
well as to honor the 150th birth anniver‑
would be a professional to commemorate the occasion. “I have Development Foundation, which would
sary of Mahatma Gandhi. The bill (HR development training carried India in my heart through Gandhi be established by the USAID under the
5517) was introduced in the house by initiative on conflict reso‐ from the time I was a little girl. When I laws of India. The funding authorized to
Democratic lawmaker from Georgia John was a little girl, at a Catholic school, the USAID for the foundation is $30 million
Lewis on December 19. lution, with an allocation nun said to me– Who do you think you every year from 2020 through 2025.
The bill comes at a time when external of $2 million for each fiscal are? Mahatma Gandhi! I had no idea who This foundation would have a governing
affairs minister S. Jaishankar canceled a Mahatma Gandhi was. I went to the council convened by the governments of
meeting with HFCA over the inclusion of
year from 2020 through library. In the 1950s, they had books on the US and India TAGS Mahatma Gandhi
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, who 2025, implemented Mahatma Gandhi for children that early!” bill US.
has spoken out against the Modi govern‑ through the United States she said. The bill would oversee grants to NGOs
mentʼs recent policies in India. T he bill includes the Gandhi‑King in the areas of health, pollution and cli‑
Lewis introduced the bill that sought to Institute of Peace (USIP). Scholarly Exchange Initiative with an mate change, education, and women
“affirm” the friendship between the two allocation of $2 million for each fiscal empowerment. The bill would be a major
countries and set up a bilateral partner‑ The news agency further reported that year from 2020 through 2025, for schol‑ landmark initiated by the US Congress to
ship for collaboration to advance “devel‑ though the details of the bill have not ars from India and the US held alternate‑ commemorate the 150th birth anniver‑
opment and shared values, and for other been uploaded on the of ficial website, ly in the two countries that would focus sary of Mahatma Gandhi and will supple‑
purposes”, ANI reported. sources said that the bill has been intro‑ on the study of the works and philoso‑ ment the Senate and House resolutions
Currently, the bill (HR 5517) has six co‑ duced by Lewis, a close loyalist of civil phies of Gandhi and King and visits to which were introduced on October 2 by
sponsors ̶ all of them being Democrats. rights leader Martin Luther King, on the historical sites, reported ANI. Senators Bob Menendez (Democrat‑New
Three of them are Indian‑American law‑ occasion of the 150th birth anniversary The bill proposes the setting up of Jersey) and Ted Cruz (Republican‑Texas)
makers, including Congresswoman from of Mahatma Gandhi. The bill proposes Gandhi‑King Global Academy, which and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi
Washington state ̶ Pramila Jayapal. three initiatives all of them named jointly would be a professional development (Democrat‑Illinois), respectively.

UN involvement in Indian‑origin scientist

referendum only if national creates ''Lemon''
govt asks: Spokesperson
United Nations: T he UN w ill get
involved in a referendum only at the
ple need to be able to protest peacefully
and security forces always need to show
for better drugs
New York: An Indian‑American drug dis‑
request of a national government, restraint," he added. General Assembly
covery researcher‑led team from Purdue
according to the world organization's President Tijjani Muhammad‑Bande's
University has created a new framework
spokesperson. Spokesperson Reem Abaza emphasized
for mining data for training Machine
Asked at the briefing about West "peaceful protests" when talking about
Learning models.
Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee's the right to protest in the context of the
The framework called ''Lemon'' helps
call for a UN‑conducted referendum on upheaval in India.
drug researchers better mine the Protein
citizenship issues, Secretary‑General She said Muhammad‑Bande's "posi‑
Data Base (PDB) ‑‑ a comprehensive
Antonio Guterres's tion regarding protests is
resource with more than 1,40,000 bio‑
Spokesperson Stephane that the right to protest,
molecular structures and with new ones
Dujarric said the "standard the peace ful protest,
being released every week.
policy for UN involvement should be respected;
"PDB is an essential tool for the drug
in any electoral effort, any peacefully, of course."
discovery community," said Gaurav
referendum, is for request She added, "He also sup‑
Chopra, assistant professor of analytical
from a national govern‑ ports the UN entities like
and physical chemistry in Purdue's
ment; that is our standard the Human Rights (High
College of Science.
policy." Commissioner), for exam‑
The problem is that it can take an enor‑
He said that it was not ple, in all their ef forts to
mous amount of time to sort through all
specific to Banerjee's call, reach out in dif ferent
the accumulated data.
but a statement of the standard by issues regarding human rights in multi‑
"Machine learning can help, but you still
which the UN operates. Banerjee said on ple situations around the world."
need a strong framework from which the
the UN should conduct a referendum on Reflecting the common misperception
computer can quickly analyze data to help
the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) of the CAA, the reporter erroneously Gaurav Chopra's drug discovery research
in the creation of safe and ef fective
and the National Register of Citizens phrased the question as discriminatory team has created a new framework to
drugs," Chopra said in a paper published
(NRC) and challenged the central gov‑ to all Muslims, while the law applies mine enormous database in minutes
in the journal Bioinformatics.
ernment to go for it. only to those from the officially Islamic
T he Lemon software platform is a entific community, said the researchers.
However, she changed her position a Pakistan and Afghanistan and Muslim‑
library with Python bindings that mines Jonathan Fine, a Ph.D. student in chem‑
day later, saying, "I meant an opinion majority Bangladesh and seeks to pro‑
the PDB within minutes. istry who worked with Chopra to develop
poll overseen by experts like the Human vide refuge for not only Hindus but also
Loading all traditional files in the PDB the platform said: "We created Lemon as a
Rights Commission. I have full faith in Christians, Parsis, Sikhs, Buddhists and
takes about 290 minutes, but Lemon does one‑stop‑shop to quickly mine the entire
my country and its people." Jains fleeing religious persecutions in
this in about six minutes when applying a data bank and pull out the useful biologi‑
Asked about the protests against the those countries by fast‑tracking their
simple workflow on an 8‑core machine. cal information that is key for developing
CAA, Dujarric said the UN was "closely citizenship eligibility.
Lemon allows the user to write custom drugs".
following it" and "we are concerned by The law also does not give preferen‑
functions, include it as part of their soft‑ Chopra has also worked with the Purdue
the violence that we see, the fatalities." tial treatment to Hindus or the other
ware suite, and develop custom functions Research Foundation Office of Technology
"What is very important and this five minorities from other countries
in a standard manner to generate unique Commercialization to patent other innova‑
applies across the board is that the peo‑ seeking Indian citizenship. (IANS)
benchmarking datasets for the entire sci‑ tions from his lab. (IANS)
 10 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 US AFFAIRS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Trump impeach trial in Moderate GOP senator

limbo as Pelosi plays a Joker 'disturbed' by McConnell's
By Nikhila Natarajan WH coordination
Washington:
New York: T he final bend of Republican Senator
Speaker Nancy
President Donald Trumpʼs impeach‑ Lisa Murkowski has
Pelosiʼs holding
ment process, a Senate trial, has back said that she was
suddenly slid into limbo after his impeachment "disturbed" by her
Democratic rivals who control the articles party's stance before
House of Representatives have has politicos President Donald
brought the until‑now rapid fire scratching their Trump's impeach‑
spectacle to a screeching halt and heads. ment trial, it was
left politicos scratching their heads reported on
about how this story ends. Thursday.
"Timing is everything," the T he Alaska
President's most consequential rival acquitted. should be called. Senator's comments
in the US Congress and the heroine Pelosi says the House cannot Republicans have made it clear come after Senate
of the Democratic resistance Nancy choose impeachment managers that the Senate trial, whenever it Majority Leader
Pelosi said before launching the "until we know what sort of a trial happens, isn''t going to try too hard Mitch McConne ll
impeachment inquiry against the Senate will conduct". to play fair. "T his is a political pledged "total co‑
Trump. "President Trump blocked his process, not a legal one" is their ordination" with the
While political pundits began pre‑ own witnesses and documents from anthem. W hite House, the
dicting an early January trial, Pelosi the House and from the American Trump is already juicing the us‑ BBC said in a report.
has now inserted a twist in the sto‑ people, on phony complaints about versus‑them theme for his re‑elec‑ Murkowski told
ryline after bottling up impeach‑ the House process. What is his tion campaign to re‑ignite his base. Alaska's KTUU news Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska
ment. She is asking Senate excuse now?" Pelosi tweeted. "In reality, they're not after me. channe l on
Republicans what a trial might look Bolstering Pe losi's tack, top They're after you. I'm just in the Wednesday that she was uncom‑ she said, while also criticizing
like. Democrats were now saying a trial way," read his noir‑laced pinned fortable with McConnell's com‑ Democrats for the impeachment
Pelosi has refused to submit arti‑ without witnesses would be tweet moments after he was ments about "total co‑ordina‑ proceedings being "rushed".
cles of impeachment to the Senate "Kafkaesque" and a "sham". impeached. tion". "When I heard that I was Murkowski, a mo derate
and the standoff is likely to last a Trump was impeached on How the Democrats plan to disturbed," she said. Republican, has crit icized
few weeks at least before the high December 19 by the House of finesse Trump's impeachment for Murkowski also said there President Trump on a number of
stakes feud resumes on the other Representatives, becoming only the the 2020 election was still unclear. should be distance between the policy issues.
side of the new year. third American President in the If Trump loses next November, White House and the Senate over In October 2018, she voted
T hroughout the impeachment nation's history to be impeached. the impeachment will be hailed as a how the trial is conducted. ag ainst Brett Kavanaug h,
tumult so far, the White House has Republican and Democratic lead‑ political class act by Pelosi, and if "To me it means that we have Trump's nominee for the
kept its sights firmly on the Senate ers have not yet agreed on the for‑ he wins, the impeachment decision to take that step back from being Supreme Court, after sexual
(Republicans control it 53‑47) trial, mat of the pending Senate impeach‑ will be attacked as the epicenter of hand in glove with the defense," assault allegations.
where Trump is almost certain to be ment trial and whether witnesses his resurgence.

Google, Apple 5 qualify for the next

remove UAE spying Democratic Debate
chat app ToTok
Washington: After the sixth Democratic runner in the race. Minnesota senator
debate Thursday, the Democratic National Klobuchar benefited the most from the
Committee released the qualification rules smaller number of candidates on stage in
New York: Google and Apple have ment, the app that works like Signal or for the next debate, which will take place on the 6th debate. She got to talk a lot more
removed the popular messaging app Telegram has been downloaded mil‑ Jan. 14 in Iowa. As of Dec 20, these are the than in past debates and used that time
ToTok amid claims that it is being lions of times on Android and iOS five candidates who have qualified: Joe very, very well.
used for spying by the UAE govern‑ devices in the Middle East, Europe, Biden, Bernie Sanders, Elizbeth Warren, Former New York City Mayor Michael
ment for mass surveillance. Asia, Africa and North America. Peter Buttigieg and Amy Klobuchar. Bloomberg is skipping the early states, but
The app has been downloaded five An investigation by NYT found that For the other two candidates on stage his standing in national polls ̶ aided by his
million times on Android before it was the firm behind ToTok is known as T hursday nig ht ̶ tech entrepreneur massive ad spending ̶ got him past the
removed from the Google Play Store. Breej Holding which is a front firm Andrew Yang and billionaire activist Tom polling requirement. Bloomberg, however,
App‑tracking platform App Annie af filiated with DarkMatter, an Abu Steyer ̶ the new requirements appear has said heʼs not seeking donations, which
said that ToTok was one of the most Dhabi‑based cyberintelligence and reachable but arenʼt a sure thing. may make it impossible for him to make the
downloaded chat apps in the US last hacking firm. Joe Biden retains his status as the front‑ debate.
week. DarkMatter is already under an FBI
Earlier, a New York Times report investigation for possible cybercrimes.
said that ToTok (do not confuse it with The probe also linked ToTok to Pax
Democratic
TikTok) which is billed as a secure way AI, an Abu Dhabi‑based data mining
presidential
to chat by video or text message with firm that appears to be t ied to candidates at
friends and family is allegedly being DarkMatter. their debate
used by the UAE government as a spy‑ The UAE government declined to in Los
ing tool for mass surveillance. comment on the report. Angeles last
ToTok "is used by the UAE govern‑ "While the existing ToTok users con‑ Thursday.
ment to try to track every conversa‑ tinue to enjoy our service without This time
tion, movement, relationship, appoint‑ interruption, we would like to inform Senator Amy
ment, sound and image of those who our new users that we are we ll Klobuchar
install it on their phones". engaged with Google and Apple to had a good
According to US of ficials familiar address the issue," ToTok said in a
performance.
with the classified intelligence assess‑ blog post.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info US AFFAIRS Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 11

McConnell not ruling out calling Trump signs $738bn

defense bill with sanctions
witnesses in Trump trial on Russia and Turkey
Washington: Senate Majority Leader
Mitch McConnell has said that Washington: President Donald Washington that "neither Nord
Republicans "haven't ruled out" call‑ Trump has signed into law a $738 Stream 2 nor TurkStream will
ing witnesses in the upcoming billion defense bill which includes stop".
impeachment trial to decide whether controversial provisions calling for The bill also renewed a decision
President Donald Trump should be sanct ions ag ainst Russia and to exclude Turkey from the US‑led
convicted and removed. "We haven't Turkey. Trump approved the 2020 F‑35 fighter jet program in retalia‑
ruled out witnesses," McConnell, a National Defense Authorization tion against Ankara's acquisition
Kentucky Republican, said in a Fox Act (NDAA), which will increase of Russia's S‑400 air defense sys‑
News interview on Monday. the US military spending by about tem. It also claimed that the Trump
Senate Minority Leader Chuck $20 billion, or about 2.8 per cent, administration should impose
Schumer, Democrat from New York, on Friday night at a signing cere‑ sanctions on Turkey over the S‑
recently urged McConnell to call mony he ld at the Joint Base 400 purchase.
four witnesses, including Acting Andrews near Washington, reports Turkey accused the US Congress
White House Chief of Staf f Mick Xinhua news agency. of "hostile" behavior after senators
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell
Mulvaney and former National The sprawling legislation has passed the NDAA earlier this week.
Security Adviser John Bolton, Xinhua documents. He became the third McConnell said in the interview that stirred up opposition overseas as it The NDAA authorizes $635 bil‑
reported. That request was rejected President in US history to be the Democratic congresswoman rep‑ contains punit ive provisions lion in base discretionary funds for
by McConnell, who suggested a impeached. House Speaker Nancy resenting California is "apparently against Russia, Turkey and other the Pentagon, $71.5 billion in
quick wrap‑up of the trial to acquit Pelosi in a tweet Monday defended trying to tell us how to run the trial." countries. overseas contingency operations
Trump of the allegations contained her decision not to hand the articles He said he is "not anxious to have The bill notes that the "(NDAA) funds and $23.1 billion for nuclear
in two articles of impeachment over to the Senate anytime soon. this trial." protects European energy security prog rams at the Energ y
passed by the House last week. "The House cannot choose our "We're at an impasse. We can't do by imposing sanctions related to Department.
Trump was impeached by the impeachment managers until we anything until the speaker sends the Russian energy pipelines Nord It also includes a 3.1 per cent
House for what the Democrats said know what sort of trial the Senate papers over," McConnell said. Stream 2 and TurkStream". pay raise, the largest in a decade.
was abusing his power in pressuring will conduct," she said, adding that Trump also took to Twitter to lash Despite facing potential sanc‑ In a w in for Trump and
Ukraine to launch political investiga‑ "President Trump blocked his own out at Pelosi. "Pelosi gives us the tions, Russia and Germany have Republican lawmakers, the bill will
tions that would help with his re‑ witnesses and documents from the most unfair trial in the history of the reaf firmed their commitments to establish the Space Force, a new
election, and obstructing Congress's House, and from the American peo‑ US Congress, and now she is crying complete the Nord Stream 2 proj‑ US military branch which will be
impeachment inquiry by ple, on phony complaints about the for fairness in the Senate, and break‑ ect and put it into operation. housed in the Department of the
stonewalling subpoenaed adminis‑ House process. What is his excuse ing all rules while doing so," he Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Air Force and led by the chief of
tration of ficials as well as related now?" Reacting to Pelosi's remarks, claimed. Lavrov said last wee k in space operations.
 12 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 INDIA TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Modi tears into Gandhis, Mamata over CAA

New Delhi: Amid the raging anti‑
CAA protest, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi chose to start his
speech with an unusual chant,
CAA a legacy issue: PM
"Vivid hta me e kta, Bharat ke Lucknow: Condemning violence state capital after inaugurating
visheshta" (Unity in diversity is over the new citizenship law, the 25‑ft tall bronze statue of
India's speciality). Prime Minister Narendra Modi former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Though the focus of the rally at on Wednesday said the problem at Lok Bhawan, the state secre‑
Ramlika Maidan was the upcom‑ over the Citizenship Amendment tariat, Modi said the legacy
ing De lhi Assembly e lect ion Act was one of "legacy issues", problems included Article 370,
where the BJP's state unit asserting that "we will challenge Ram temple issue and
drummed up the fact that the the challengers". Citizenship Amendment Act.
Center regularized illegal colonies More than a dozen people "We have solved some of the
that benefited thousands, Modi have died across Uttar Pradesh problems that we got as lega‑
chose it to be the platform to in protests against the law. The cy...We will challenge the chal‑
answer the raging opposition damage to public property is lengers," he said, adding the way
ag ainst the Cit izenship estimated around Rs 100 crore to give citizenship to refugees
Narendra Modi speaking at Delhiʼs Ramlila Maidan.
Amendment Act. in seven districts of the state. from Pakistan, Bang ladesh,
"Citizenship Act doesn't apply to all Muslims will be sent to deten‑ Modi. Amid fluttering BJP flags, Addressing a gathering in the Afghanistan has been cleared.
any Indians ‑ be it Hindu or tion centers. 'Ye jhhut hai, ye beating of drums and excited
Muslim. It applies to the refugees jhhut hai, ye jhhut hai' (These are attendees, Modi was the unmis‑ Citizenship Amendment Act, Modi Prime Minister Manmohan Singh
from Bangladesh, Afghanistan and lies)," he said. takable crowdpuller. Many of the had done one thing that most in had supported the idea of giving
Pakistan," he said. Invoking Modi spared no one. Not just the BJP supporters were seen dancing the BJP failed to : Unite the entire re fuge to Hindus and other
Mahatma Gandhi, Modi made his Congress he also took a dig at to tunes that were dedicated to De lhi BJP unit. He flayed the minorities from Bangladesh. "If
point but not without taking a West Beng al Chie f Minister Prime Minister. opposit ion part ies for their the Cong ress can support
sharp dig at the Gandhi family. Mamata Banerjee as we ll. Needless to say, BJP put its best alleged hypocrisy in opposing the Manmohan Sing h, why is it a
Modi was at his aggressive best Referring to the controversial bet forward and hopes to use his Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). crime if I propose it?" he said.
when he referred to certain oppo‑ demand of the Trinamool chief for image to w in De lhi e lect ion, He cornered the opposition over He also recalled that Rajasthan
sition parties as "remote control" a UN‑monitored referendum on where it was decimated by AAP in the CAA and gave a clear indica‑ Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot who
behind the current anti‑CAA agita‑ the issue, Modi said she had a dif‑ the last polls. tion about the BJP's firm inten‑ in his previous term had support‑
tion. "There's no discussion on ferent position on the subject a Though Modi's focus largely tions on going forward with the ed the idea of granting citizenship
NRC... Some educated urban nax‑ few years ago. "Didi, what made remained the opposition parties law. The Prime Minister recalled to Hindus and Sikhs. "Why is he
als are spreading this rumor that you change your mind?" asked and their alleged flip flops on the how, a few years ago, former silent now?"

People giving befitting reply Cabinet okays National

Population Register
to BJP's arrogance: Mamata New Delhi: T he Union
Cabinet, chaired by Prime
Census year.
Seeking to allay fears, the
Minister Narendra Modi, government had stressed
on Tuesday g ave its that NPR is a "National
approval for updation of Population Register, not a
the National Population citizen register".
Reg ister (NPR) w ith no "There is no need of any
West Bengal requirement by people to proof, document and bio‑
Chief submit any document or metric as we be lieve in
Minister biometrics to prove their people. Whatever you will
leads a identity, and conducting of say would be correct. All
protest census of India 2021. states have accepted and
rally in Announcing the decision notified it. The states have
Kolkata. taken in the Union Cabinet also started their cam‑
meet ing, Union Human paign," Javadekar said at
Resource Deve lopment the press briefing.
Minister Prakash "NPR will be on self‑dec‑
Javadekar said no proof laration or self‑certifica‑
will be sought from people tion basis and only head
during the process of NPR count will be done."
Kolkata: Ridiculing Prime Minister rally in Delhi's Ramlila Maidan that you are saying is also in the public beginning April 2020. Mentioning that all the
Narendra Modi and Home Minister his government has never even dis‑ domain," she said, asking people to He said that the upcom‑ states are providing train‑
Amit Shah for making contradictory cussed the Nat ional Reg ister of search and find out who has said ing NPR was no dif ferent ing to their officers to con‑
statements on NRC, West Bengal Chief Citizens (NRC), Banerjee asked people what. than the one conducted in duct NPR, the Minister said
Minister Mamata Banerjee on to search and find the truth. Banerjee said: "People have started 2010 by the UPA govern‑ the Cabinet has approved
Tuesday asked the Central dispensa‑ "India's Home Minister says in the giving befitting replies. You have ment and that Census will the proposal for conduct‑
tion to quit, saying people have start‑ Parliament that 'NRC exercise will be received be fitt ing replies in cover the entire population ing Census of India 2021
ed giving befitting replies to BJP's held all over India, we will do it'. But Maharashtra and Jharkhand. Shed in the country while NPR at a cost of Rs 8,754.23
"arrogance and audacity". now the Prime Minister is saying the your arrogance and audacity." will cover all the popula‑ crore and updation of NPR
She also demanded the BJP govern‑ opposite. He says we haven't dis‑ The CHief Minister highlighted that tion except in Assam. at a cost of Rs 3,941.35
ment at the Centre to withdraw the cussed anything about NRC," Banerjee a movement was now raging against The NPR updation exer‑ crore.
Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). said after leading a huge rally against the BJP across India. cise w ill be conducted He said that the NPR was
"BJP take back NRC, take back CAA. the new citizenship law and NRC here. "This is a movement for protecting between April and first started in 2010 by the
You also quit. You have done enough. T he Trinamool chief noted that one's rights. Bengal started it. Now September 2020 in all UPA government led by
The country is burning, unemploy‑ nowadays anything anybody says people in Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, states and Union Prime Minister Manmohan
ment is at an all‑time high, the econo‑ remains in the public domain. Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Territories and a head Sing h, ahead of Census
my is in very bad shape," the "Whatever we have said, everything Rajasthan, Jaharkhand, Mad hya count w ill be ready by 2011, and was last updat‑
Trinamool Congress supremo said. is in the public domain, from the Pradesh and Punjab are doing the Fe bruary 2021 ‑‑ the ed in 2015.
Pointing to Modi's comments at a Parliament to the streets. Whatever same," she said.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info INDIA NEWS Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 13

Ignoring tribal sentiment hit BJP

hard in Jharkhand
New Delhi: The 2019 Jharkhand
assembly election results indicate
an overwhelming rejection of the
Hemant to be sworn
in as Jharkhand CM
BJP by the state's tribal voters. Of
the 28 seats reserved for sched‑
uled tribe (ST) candidates, the BJP
managed to win only 2 seats in
these elections.
In contrast, the JMM and allies
on Dec 29
Ranchi: Jharkhand Mukti Morcha The alliance, which won 47
won the remaining 26 seats or a
( JMM) leader and the JMM‑ seats in the 81‑member house in
little more than half the 47 seats
Congress‑RJD alliance's Chief the November‑December
they ultimately won and are set to
Minister candidate Hemant Assembly e lect ion, has also
form the next government in the
Soren was invited to form the secured support of former ally,
state.
government in Jharkhand and the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha‑
Predictably, the BJP is putting up
will take oath on December 29. Prajatantrik.
a brave face. "The party will evalu‑
Accompanied by leaders of Soren was elected leader of the
ate the result as BJP always does.
alliance partners, the Congress alliance at a meeting of alliance
All I can say, we may have lost Jharkhand Chief Minister‑designate Hemant Soren.
and the Rashtriya Janata Dal, MLAs at the residence of his
seats but we have got an impres‑
Soren met Governor Draupadi father and JMM President Shibu
sive vote share in Jharkhand which among others that propelled the 10 seats to the BJP's 9. In 2014,
Murmu at Raj Bhawan at 8.45 Soren.
most seem to ignore." said Amit alliance through. the JMM again led with 13 seats to
pm and staked his claim to form Earlier in the day, newly‑elect‑
Malviya, social media head of the In the three e lect ions that the BJP's tally of 11 seats.
the government. ed JMM legislators elected him
BJP. Jharkhand has seen after its for‑ According to poll analysts, opt‑
The swearing‑in will take here as the leader of the legislature
Chief Minister‑designate Hemant mat ion, the BJP and the JMM ing for a non‑tribal chief minister,
on 1 pm. party.
Soren and his ally, the Congress, would usually end up with almost in the form of Raghubar Das, also
thanked the voters in Jharkhand's equal number of seats, with other af fected the BJP's chances in the
tribal belt for the emphatic victory parties mopping up the remainder. crucial area. Yashwant Deshmukh The BJP has traditionally never impact was most pronounced in
they registered in the assembly Both parties won 9 seats each in of C‑Voter said that Hemant Soren been strong in the tribal belts, 20 the 2019 assembly elections.
elections, results for which were 2005 while others won the played a major role in rallying the of which went to polls in the first After Chattisgarh, Jharkhand is
announced. It was largely due to remaining 10 seats. In 2009, the JMM‑led alliance's campaign, espe‑ two phases of the five‑phase yet another mineral rich state in
the stress on local issues such as JMM, with its tribal moorings, cially in the tribal‑dominated areas assembly polls. But when the the Chhota Nagpur plateau to slip
land, forest rights, employment managed to take a slight edge with of the state. results came out on Monday, the away from the BJP fold.

All 130 crores Indians 'Inauspicious period' delays

part of Hindu Samaj: cabinet expansion
New Delhi: T he

Mohan Bhagwat first cabinet

expansion in the
Mo di govern‑
Hyderabad: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat ment's second
said that for Sangh all 130 crore term and the
Indians are part of Hindu society, irre‑ announcement of
spective of their region, religion and the new Bharatiya
culture. Janata Party (BJP)
He told a public meeting of Rashtriya president has been
Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) here that delayed. The major
Sangh considers all 130 crore Indians reason behind this
as "Hindu Samaj". is said to be the
The RSS chief said that all those who "inauspicious peri‑
have nationalistic spirit, respect India's od".
culture and heritage are part of Hindu If sources are to
society. be be lieved, the
"When I say Hindu Samaj, it includes BJP will undertake
any major work No cabinet expansion has happened after the Narendra Modi
those who consider India their mother‑
govt came to power for the second time.
land, love its 'jal, jungle and janwar', related to the gov‑
have the nationalistic spirit and respect ernment or the organization only after the the new party president for the next three
its culture. Irrespective of the lan‑ inauspicious days which started from years because as per the party's tradition
guages they speak, the regions they RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that December 14 will be over on January 14, one person can hold only one post at a
come from, their forms of worship and India is traditionally ʻHindutva‑ vadiʼ. 2020. time. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is
even if they don't follow any religion, Party sources said that the BJP believes holding the post only till the organization‑
Claiming that RSS is working selfless‑
all are children of India," he said. in doing all the important work as per the al elections end. As per the party's consti‑
ly to remove the suf ferings of others,
Stating that tha Sangh wants to unite auspicious time (Shubh Mahurat). As of tution the party president is elected after
he said every village and every habita‑
all, he asked the cadres to go door to now organizational elections are going on the organizational elections have taken
tion need teams of such selfless work‑
door to explain what the organization in the party and it was expected that the place in at least 50 per cent of the states.
ers. "This will change the society and
stands for. party will announce a new national presi‑ On the other side, no cabinet expansion
India's destiny," he said.
Bhagwat said that 'Dharma Vijay' is dent in December. But as the inauspicious has happened after the Modi government
Stating that the world is looking
the idea of Sangh, Hindu Samaj and month started from December 14 which came to power for the second time on
towards India for guidance for peace
India. He also remarked that the coun‑ w ill cont inue t ill January 14 the May 30, 2019. The sources said that the
and happiness, he said only an organ‑
try is traditionally "Hindutva‑ vadi". announcement was delayed. expansion is also expected after the inaus‑
ized 'Hindu Samaj' can deliver this.
The sources said that J.P. Nadda will be picious days are over on January 14.
 14 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 OP-ED TheSouthAsianTimes.info

By Anindya Banerjee after, in a press conference a con‑

fident Rahul Gandhi had said, "It's
New Delhi: May 24, 2019 ‑‑ was a the time for change”.
day of jubilation at the BJP head‑ 4. Madhya Pradesh: Congress'
quarters here with showers of Kamal Nath swept to power last
fresh flowers, red carpets rolled December in spite of the intra‑
out and 'dhols' going full blast party contradict ions. Like in
after Modi 2.0 entered with a Chhattisgarh, the Congress man‑
bang of an unprecedented man‑ aged to form a government in the
date of 303 seats in the Lok state after a long spell of 15 years,
Sabha. though with a wafer‑thin majority.
But come December, and with 5. Maharashtra: After an embar‑
the loss of Jharkhand on Monday, rassing short stint of the BJP and
the Bharatiya Janata Party's saf‑ a breakaway faction of the NCP,
fron hue appears to be on the the Sena‑led NCP‑Congress‑Shiv
wane. The once blooming 'Lotus' Sena claimed power at the
has been shrinking at a steady Financial capital. The BJP‑Sena
pace across India. It all started alliance fell apart, resulting in a
last December when the BJP was month‑long political uncertainty
wiped out in three states at one go in the state.
‑‑ Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and 6. Jharkhand: The latest to join
Madhya Pradesh. the bandwagon of non‑BJP states
Then Maharashtra too, slipped is Jharkhand where five years of
out of BJP's hand in Autumn. With anti‑incumbency and an unpopu‑

Shrinking Lotus eclipsing BJP's

winter in full swing, BJP has now lar Chief Minister proved costly
lost Jharkhand. for the "lotus".
It's a legitimate question then: Is One of the BJP's slogans in the
the "Congress‑mukt Bharat" an
idea whose time never came?
Here's looking at the 12 states
dream of Congress‑mukt Bharat run‑up to the 2014 general elec‑
tion was making India "Congress‑
mukt" (Free of Congress). Riding
where the question hangs heavy. to within the Punjab Congress, than in Delhi. three‑fourth majority on 68 seats high on the volley of corruption
It all started with: was allowed to take charge replac‑ 2. Chhattisgarh: Last December, in the 90‑member Assembly. The angle against then UPA‑2 and its
1. Punjab: The state that the ing Rahul Gandhi's protege Partap the BJP's 15‑year‑rule came to an BJP was reduced to just 15 in the top ministers, the BJP had made
Akali‑BJP combine lost after rul‑ Singh Bajwa, and the BJP's rout abrupt end when the Congress state. "Congress mukt Bharat" a house‑
ing two consecut ive terms. began. The BJP was cut down to a dethroned Raman Singh of BJP 3. Rajasthan: With 107 MLAs in hold slogan.
Captain Amarinder Singh, the single digit ‑‑ two in the 117‑ from the naxal‑affected state. The the 200‑member Assembly, the Five years down the lane, that
giant killer as he is often referred member Assembly, which is worse Congress swept to power with a Congress returned to power. Soon dream appears far away.

A Midnight's Child's fears for India

By Mihir Bose even meat‑eating Hindus." vividly demonstrated when the
Modi's followers will argue that quest ion of re building the

I
am one of Midnight's Children they are correcting the militant Somnath Temple came up in
born just a few months before secularism that Nehru preached. 1951. T he Temple had been
India won her freedom. I grew In the Nehruvian India of my destroyed by the Muslim raider
up in Nehru's India, he died the youth religious discussion was Mahmud Ghazni, in one of his
same day in May 1964 as when considered taboo and would have many raids on India between
my SSC results, the equivalent of been seen as a betrayal of 1000 and 1028. For Hindus this
GCSE, were published. Chacha Nehru. He encouraged was their equivalent of the
Throughout that period we wor‑ the idea that any talk of religion destruction of the second temple
ried about India breaking up. must mean the person talking of the Jews. Nehru opposed the
Foreign writers came visiting and was sectarian, or in that catch all proposal to rebuild Somnath led
went back to write books saying Indian phrase, a communalist. In by K.M. Munshi, then a member
India could not survive. Even Nehru's India there could be no of Nehru's Cabinet and was most
prominent Indians shared such greater sin than to be branded a upset when India's first President
views. To day we know how communalist. It is like being Rajendra Prasad agreed to inau‑
I no longer fear about India breaking up but the India that is
absurd such fears were. Yet as I called a racist in the west nowa‑ gurate the rebuilt temple.
emerging is not what our founding fathers would have wanted.
write I am consumed by fears days. Nehru, while well‑intentioned,
about a very fundamental change emerging now under Narendra wanted. In the UK we see ourselves as a fashioned a secularism which has
to India which could have far Modi's rule has taken a very dif‑ The result is that in Mumbai, secular country where despite provided the Hindutva move‑
reaching effects. India's secular‑ ferent attitude to secularism. It is the city I grew up in, there is now having a state re lig ion, the ment to claim that Hindus are in
ism, which for all the twists and clear from the persecution of a form of religious apartheid monarch is the head of the peril. Ridiculous as this argument
turns of history, has survived and those who do not follow the edict when it comes to housing. Munir church and all major state func‑ is, it has clearly persuaded many
produced a country like no other, of banning of the slaughter of Visram, a lawyer, describes how tions are held in an Anglican Hindus and the way Modi's gov‑
is now in grave danger. cows. a Muslim client of his wanted to church, all other religions can ernment is driving this agenda
Amartya Sen has identified two It is demonstrated by the buy a flat in a suburb of Mumbai flourish. There was never any means the India that is emerging
principle kinds of secularism. In recent Bill which allows illegal but when he gave his name the chance that after 1947 in India is not the caring, tolerant society
one, the state can be neutral mig rants from Afg hanistan, broker said, "You are a Muslim. Hinduism would be the national I and many of my midnight's gen‑
between dif ferent religions, in Pakistan and Bangladesh provid‑ Sorry this building is not for religion but other religions could eration grew up cherishing. I no
the other it prohibits any reli‑ ed they are Hindus, Christians, Muslims. Hindus only." Parts of flourish. Nehru and the Congress longer fear about India breaking
gious association in state activi‑ Buddhists, Parsees, Jews and India's commercial capital and its leadership were absolutely right up but the India that is emerging
ties. France is an example of that Jains cit izenship but not to most vibrant city has become so to reject any such idea. is not what our founding fathers
prohibition. India, as Sen says, is Muslims from those countries. segregated that, says Visram, However, Nehru went further would have wanted and for
an example of the first interpre‑ Modi's government is turning its "owners say this building is for than most Congress leaders in whose freedom so many Indians
tation neutrality interpretation of back on the tolerant, secular, vegetarians only, so there no denying that religion should play gave everything up including
secularism. T he India that is society India's founding fathers Muslim, Christians, Jews, Paris or any part in the country. This was their lives.

The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info LIFESTYLE Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 15

New Yearʼs Eve popular time

London: Couples appear to have a special lik‑
ing for Christmas Eve and New Year Eve to
get cosy under the sheet, according to a sur‑
vey.

among couples for festive sex

While around 60 per cent couples who par‑
ticipated in the survey said they would prefer
to have sex on December 24, almost equal
number of people (58 per cent) expressed Day, Yahoo Style UK reported on Tuesday.
desire to enjoy some “bonding time” on the The results, based on a poll of 2,175 peo‑
New Yearʼs Eve, revealed the results of the ple, suggest that the festive holidays not just
research by Lovehoney ‑ Britainʼs biggest sex pave the way for elaborate sessions of food
toy retailer. and drinks, but also unlock the keys to fulfill‑
In comparison, just 47 per cent of respon‑ ing passions.
dents said they would have sex on Christmas T his could also be the reason why
September 26 is the most popular birth date
for UK babies, at 39 weeks and two days

Fast after Christmas, said the report.

But many ‑ 44 per cent of women and 50

intermittently
per cent of men ‑‑ believe that staying with
parents and in‑laws might lead to a night
without sex.

to get slim this

New Year

Narrowing eating times

window to 6‐8 hours per
day is part of the deal.
New York: As you enter New Year on a
sad note that despite gymming and
avoiding sugary food for most part of
2019, the fat around your belly refused
to go away, it is bell for a New Year reso‑
lution: Make intermittent fasting part of
your health regime.
Intermittent fasting diets fall generally
into two categories: daily time‑restricted
feeding, which narrows eating times to 6‑
8 hours per day, and so‑called 5:2 inter‑
mittent fasting, in which people limit
themselves to one moderate‑sized meal
two days each week.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine
neuroscientist Mark Mattson, studies
have shown that this improves blood
sugar regulation, increases resistance to
stress and suppresses inflammation.
“Intermittent fasting could be part of a
healthy lifestyle,” said Mattson who has
studied the health impact of intermittent
fasting for 25 years, and adopted it him‑
self about 20 years ago.
In the article published in The New
England Journal of Medicine, Mattson
said that four studies in both animals and
people found intermittent fasting also
decreased blood pressure, blood lipid lev‑
els and resting heart rates.
Alternating between times of fasting
and eating supports cellular health, prob‑
ably by triggering an age‑old adaptation
to periods of food scarcity called meta‑
bolic switching.
Such a switch occurs when cells use up
their stores of rapidly accessible, sugar‑
based fuel, and begin converting fat into
energy in a slower metabolic process.
 16 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD TheSouthAsianTimes.info

The filmi social media warriors

By Vinod Mirani these crusaders rated among the top? And, Sarovar Dam. His film, "Fanaa", and the film's
the most followed don't get involved in petty producer (YRF) paid the price, since the film

I
ndia as a country has been making defini‑ social media posts. They know they can't could not be released in Gujarat. I'm not sure
tive changes in the way it works. Drastic indulge in arguments with nonentities who if Aamir even knew the background of the
laws are being planned and huge protests seek attention. project!
are being launched. As it seems, some vital However, there is one person, Kangana Eventually, he ended up making a fool of
and long overdue changes are being put in Ranaut, who always takes up the cudgels on himself. He was anchoring a TV serial,
place. There are those who approve and social media for issues against the biggest of "Satyamev Jayate", based on social issues or
there are the ones who don't. bosses of the film world. According to her, injustice done to a common man. May be, he
Now, all sorts of opinions, accusations and those who don't react are cowards. That is expected his standing up against Sardar
oppositions, have started coming up on the not really true, every dignified and success‑ Sarovar would further his image as a crusad‑
outlets of social media, especially Twitter. ful film personality cannot get into an argu‑ er for the deprived! At times, stars use such
And most vocal on social media seem to be ment with somebody on the basis of his or public platforms to promote their films. At
some film personalities. her posts on social media. most times, such ideas backfire.
Suddenly, they become experts on just There have been a few dissenting voices Amitabh Bachchan was among the first to
about everything that happens in the coun‑ from some actors like Aamir Khan and take to the Internet when he started writing
try, though what they demonstrate through Naseeruddin Shah. Not on Twitter but in a blog which he still continues. Writing a
their arguments is a total lack of knowledge public. Shah, who played a man blowing up blog needs content and a valid topic. Not
as well as low IQ level. Looks like Twitter has terrorists in "A Wednesday" in 2008, many who do the rabble‑rousing on Twitter
become the hotbed for venting frustrations thought his family was not safe in India. If will do so because that would need elaborat‑
as well as drawing attention. oppose it! The only place where their posts you read his biography, he is not even a first‑ ing on what they want to convey.
There were occasions like demonetization, were acknowledged was on TV debates. generation Indian! The irony is those who cry about democra‑
GST, Article 370 and, now the Citizenship Major stars who matter ‑‑ like Amitabh Then there was Aamir Khan whose wife cy being in danger and complain about free‑
Amendment Act (CAA). And, soon as the Bill Bachchan, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, feared for her family in India! He lost some dom of expression enjoy all the benefits of
was passed in both houses of Parliament, the Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone ‑‑ are ad‑assignments as a result. Earlier, he had both ‑‑ democracy as well as freedom of all
coterie got busy on Twitter. No matter what among the most followed twitterati in the joined forces with social activist Medha kinds. Save for a few, no wonder, filmstars
it was, no matter the details. They had to country from the film field. Why are none of Patkar, suggesting the blocking of Sardar turned crusaders are not taken seriously.

This is not the India I grew Salman asks makers

up in: Vishal Bhardwaj to get another host
for 'Bigg Boss 13ʼ
F
rom using abusive language to tated Sidharth loses his temper and ends
indulging in physical fights, the up tearing Arhaan's shirt.
ongoing season of "Bigg Boss" has Such abusive behavior of the contestants
been witnessing a lot of high drama since did not go down well with host Salman
the very first day. And now things have Khan at all.
turned uglier between the contestants ‑‑ During the Weekend Ka Vaar episode,
especially Sidharth Shukla and Rashami Salman will be seen taking class of the
Desai. housemates. He told the makers that if
In the upcoming episode, Rashami will they want to extend the show by five
be seen throwing tea at Sidharth. Then, weeks, they need to find a new host.
Sidharth does the same and the situation "Because I am not ready for this sh*t,"
gets worse when Rashami's boyfriend Salman said in the promo video. "Bigg
Arhaan comes in between the two. An agi‑ Boss 13" airs on Colors TV.

Filmmaker‑music director Vishal Bhardwaj.

A
mid ongoing unrest over Vishal is a filmmaker who has never
Citizenship Amendment Act shied from expressing his political
(CAA) in India, filmmaker‑music beliefs in films. Be it "Haider" or "7
director Vishal Bhardwaj has shared his Khoon Maaf " or "Matru Ki Bijlee Ka
views on the current political situation, Mandola", most of his movies have a
saying the scenario is serious. political element.
"The current scenario is grim as peo‑ Sharing his process of filmmaking, he
ple are being divided on the basis of reli‑ opened up on how he is inclined towards
gion, which is not the India I grew up in," depicting reality through his projects.
Vishal told IANS. "Films are a mirror of reality. I read a
He also took to Twitter to take a dig at lot and I watch a lot. I wait for ideas to
the government for imposing Section emerge within me. I don't rush towards
144 of the Criminal Procedure Code creating ideas," Vishal said, on the side‑
(CrPC) restricting the protesters from lines of his musical performance at the
gathering against or in favor of the con‑ fifth edition of Bollywood Music Project.
troversial law passed by Parliament Talking about his stint as a musician,
recently, in several parts of the nation. Vishal started his Bollywood journey as
"Hillarious. Who knows this might a a music director in the mid‑nineties.
happen too," Bhardwaj tweeted, along He has composed songs in films such as
with a newspaper cartoon clipping that "Maachis", "Chachi 420", and "Satya",
depicts a boy expressing disappointment besides self‑directed projects such as
over the situation. "Omkara", "Kaminey", and "Pataakha".
Salman Khan on ʻBigg Boss 13ʼ set.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 17

Revolution is brought by youth, not celebrities: Sushant

S
ushant Singh made head‑

Angry Twitter users

lines on being dropped as
anchor of the popular
crime show "Savdhaan India", soon
after he joined an anti‑Citizenship
Amendment Act (CAA) rally August
Kranti Maidan in Mumbai. The
call for boycotting
actor says he doesnʼt expect too
many celebrities of the film indus‑ Farhan's movie
A
try to join the nationwide protests,
fter Bollywood actor Farhan ble request ‑‑ Please trend this... and
but he adds that it is the youth of a
Akhtar came out in support ask others to tweet and retweet.
country that brings revolution and
of those protesting against #BoycottToofan #FarhanAkhtar
not celebrities.
the changes in the Citizenship Act, @FarOutAkhtar."
"I went to August Kranti Maidan
Twitter users opposed him on "We don't want to see movies of
to show solidarity with people who
Sunday and rallied to demand a such people... who aren't with the
are afraid because of this new Act.
Actor Sushant Singh has been ousted from boycott of his upcoming movie Constitution of our country... and
There is a lot of confusion and the reality TV crime series ʻSavdhaan Indiaʼ. 'Toofan'. inciting others to go against it,"
there are a lot of questions in peo‑
About many A‑List Bollywood viewpoint and we all need to ʻToofanʼ is set for October 2020 read another post. One user
ple's mind regarding the Act, and
stars refraining from commenting respect each other's views. release. The sports‑based film remarked: "Don't see this upcoming
that includes me. We are trying to
on the issue, he said: "When you Celebrities who are talking against directed by Rakeysh Omprakash movie of Farhan Akhtar.
raise our voice so that the govern‑
are in a certain position, there is it (CAA), they are with you (peo‑ Mehra is jointly produced by #BoycottToofan" "Let's boycott peo‑
ment does something about it. It
an absolute pressure of taking a ple). So, appreciate that. We Farhan and others. ple who have zero sense and are not
was a peaceful and wonderful
stand on certain matters. People shouldn't have any problem with One user wrote: "Friends a hum‑ responsible citizens," said a user.
protest. All of them were raising
their voice for the country. I felt so give you a lot of love and you are celebrities who are not expressing
proud of my fellow Mumbaikars, what you are because of their love. their opinions”. ing. I went to the protest on receive any mail or I didn't have a
and Mumbai Police also handled So, they look at you with a certain Asked about the termination of December 16 in the evening, and word with them. I will file a com‑
the situation really well," said hope and feel that you will say his contract with the Star Bharat in the midnight I got the message plaint about this in CINTTA (Cine
Sushant, at a special screening of something about the issue." show "Savdhaan India", Sushant that I am no longer a part of the And TV Artistes' Association)."
the web series "Rangbaaz Phirse", Sushant added: "I want to tell said: "I don't know what the exact show. They didn't give a proper Sushant Singh was associated
which features him in the cast. people that everyone has their reason is, but people are speculat‑ explanation. Before that, I didn't with show as a host since 2012.

'Dabangg 3': For 'Shikara': Vidhu Vinod

revisits Kashmiri
hardcore Chulbul fans Pandits' exodus
A
t one level, it is easy

T
reviewing "Dabangg 3". It hirty years
has everything the hard‑ ago, an esti‑
core Chulbul fans want, so it's a mated one
great film. For them. lakh Kashmiri
For a 160‑minute celebration of Pandits had on the
recycled kitsch that is vying to be night of January
the year's biggest blockbuster, 19, 1990 witnessed
simply pleasing Salman Khan's a horrific genocide
hardcore fan base may not be that led to their
enough ‑‑ especially when there is exodus from the
a killing to be made in the Kashmir valley, and
Christmas season against a now filmmaker
rumored 90‑crore budget. So, Vidhu Vinod
"Dabangg 3 opens well beyond Chopra is all set to
the superstar's familiar turf, in revisit the tales of
three languages ‑– Tamil, Telugu, those victims
and Kannada ‑‑ besides the orig‑ through his upcom‑
inal Hindi version. ing film "Shikara ‑ A
This time, Salman and compa‑ Review love letter from
ny show us Chulbul Pandey's Kashmir". Filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
life before the first film, pushing a Salman Khan in a scene from the film ʻDabangg 3ʼ. Chopra has
prequel text of sorts in the first shared the teaser of the movie more than 4,00,000 Kashmiri
half before tying the loose ends in The "Dabangg" flicks follow a before being resolved by the hero on his official Twitter handle. Pandits had to flee from the
the second. It gives us a back classic narrative structure of com‑ with typical violent elan in the cli‑ "Tees saal baad, humari Kashmir Valley," the makers
story of Chulbul tracing his mercial Indian cinema. The hero, max. kahani kahi jayegi... Here is a captioned the video.
romance of the past, marking the an invincible do‑gooder, after ini‑ To be fair, Salman is in his ele‑ timeless love story in the worst "Shikara" is touted as the
debut of actress Saiee Manjrekar tial mooning about with the hero‑ ments, and that's what wholly of times," read the tweet. "story of resilience in the face
in what seems like an extended ine (and a possible minor build‑up drives this film. If Bollywood ever The makers of the film also of insurmountable odds. It's
cameo and little else. conflict with the villain), will pre‑ had a comic action hero worth his released the official motion also the story of a love that
Long before the film hits inter‑ pare for a second half that is smoking barrels, it has to be the poster on YouTube, describing remains unextinguished
mission mark, you realize this heavy with action and retribution. maverick Chulbul Pandey. what happened to Kashmiri through 30 years of exile. A
truth: The instruction given to Chulbul's adventure in this film You feel sorry for poor Rajjo, Pandits 30 years ago. timeless love story in the worst
Prabhudeva was obviously clear ‑– does not waver. though. In a film where various "What is it to know the agony of times".
churn out a sequel that's a rerun The film, incidentally written by sharp objects play a major role in of being a refugee in your own "Shikara" is scheduled to
of the first two films, in terms of Salman, retains every formula, as the killings, the only action country? The year 1990 saw release on February 7, 2020.
romance, violence, humor and Chulbul's enmity with bad man Sonakshi Sinha gets with a knife is the biggest forced migration in The cast of the film has not
drama peddled. It has to be bigger Balli Singh (Sudeep) finds it roots chopping vegetables in the independent India whereby been revealed yet.
and glossier, if not as stylish. in the back story of the first half, kitchen.
 18 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Finding the right way to wish

you a Happy New Year
By Basab Dasgupta lyrics in the famous song "Imagine": one who can make a dif ference in our
"...imagine there's no heaven....above lives. Perhaps we all want to see others
us only sky...nothing to kill or die happy. We feel guilty if we do not some‑

I
t is that time of the year again. I have
already started receiving e‑mails as for....no need for g reed or how express that feeling because God
well as cards by regular mail from hunger....only a brotherhoo d of resides deep inside us! Human beings are
my friends, neighbors and colleagues man...". We all know that it means inherently good and capable of "universal
wishing me a happy New Year. At first, I nothing tangible but it feels good to love". Celebration of new year is simply
get this urge to simply neglect this join in this euphoria: "..I hope some‑ an expression of this universal love!
whole ritual and lay low; but then I start day you will join me and world will So, here is my new year's greetings to all
to feel a certain pressure that I should live as one". It is interesting to note of you: "My sweet Lord. I pray to you for
reciprocate in some way and join in this that the new year celebration may be your blessing to everyone so that they can
seasonal spreading of goodwill. Being a the only occasion when all people all feel it, surrender to you and live a blissful
huge fan of the TV show “Seinfeld”, over the world want to join in this life for this year and beyond."
which is a self‑proclaimed “show about utopia. They embrace and kiss every‑
nothing”, I started to go into a mode of one regardless of their background Basab
reflecting upon the reasons behind all and sing and dance with them. Not Dasgupta has
the things we do in life which do not surprisingly, John Lennonʼs song is a doctorate in
make much sense. almost like an anthem in these cele‑ physics from
I always wonder why most people in I always wonder why most people in this brations. University of
this country like to display all the country like to display all the Christmas/New Year On a more spiritual note, I can say Wisconsin
Christmas/New Year cards they receive cards they receive in a colorful that what we mean by "I wish" is "I and worked
in a colorful arrangement next to their arrangement next to their pray"; otherwise it is only "wishful with Sony as
Christmas tree or fireplace. Is it a way Christmas tree or fireplace. thinking"! But pray to whom? Of Vice President
of showing how popular they are by the means of demonstrating my ability to course, you can only pray to God. If a of an operat-
number of cards they get? No, I am not in express my thoughts in a novel way. person does not believe in God then the ing division.
that competition. I am not going to buy Perhaps I should write it using some concept of prayer is irrelevant to that per‑ Retired, he
cards and mail them in any event. I have unconventional language which would son. Praying to God for someone's happi‑ now he lives in San Clemente, CA.
noticed that the business of selling greet‑ make it sound more sincere or show of f ness makes sense because God is the only
ings cards is probably one of the most my creativity.

End of a tumultuous
profitable businesses of them all. The cost What is the time window for sending
of printing a card cannot possibly be more this wish? Typically, most people lump it
than 50 cents, but one can sell them at a together with a "Merry Christmas" mes‑
price between 99 cents and $ 5.99. On sage on a card and start mailing by middle
top of that you have to add postage cost. of December. Then there are others who
Thanks to the invention of e‑mail it is no want to maintain their distance with
decade
longer essential to send an actual card. Christianity and would refuse to say

T
he 2010s (pronounced ʻtwen‑ ward leanings led to the
Should I send a happy new year email to Merry Christmas"; they might say some‑ ty‑tensʼ) is the current decade Republicans controlling Congress
everyone? There are really three reasons thing like "happy holidays and a prosper‑ in the Gregorian calendar and the e lect ion of a divisive
to do that, especially since I did not have ous new year" instead. What happens if I that began on 1 January 2010 and President Donald Trump, which
any social interaction with many of these miss the December 31 deadline? I am sure
will end on 31 December 2019. turned out to be good for the econ‑
people for a long time: I) it is a social cus‑ no one would mind if they receive such a
The decade began amid a global omy but also the third impeach‑
tom and formality and I should simply message in early January. Would sending
financial crisis and subsequent ment in the countryʼs history.
adhere to it as a social creature. 2) I the message in late January be too late?
international recession dating from In India, the corruption scandals
should use this exchange of good wills as I think that it was really fortunate for
the late 2000s. Austerity policies hit Manmohan Singh government
an ice‑breaker to reopen a communication the Western people that Christmas is so
particularly af fected Portugal, was ousted and BJP led front
channel, especially with all the people close to the new year that they can com‑
Ireland, Greece, and Spain. Such g ained absolute majority. T he
who have interests similar to mine. 3) If I bine wishes for a “merry Christmas” and a
policies were among factors that Narendra Modi government, in its
do not, I would come across as a rude “happy new year“ in the same message. In
and/or callous person which is probably our Bengali custom we have to go through
led to the 15‑M and Occupy move‑ second term, has taken historic
not a good thing. There is really no reason a similar ritual twice in any given year:
ments. steps such as abrogating Article
to even pro crast inate on this issue once to wish “Shubho Noboborsho” and
Unrest in some countries – partic‑ 370 in Kashmir, banning triple
because technology has made it as simple again to wish “Shubho Bejoya” because ularly in the Arab world – evolved talaq, and passing the Citizenship
as typing “I wish you a very happy new these two occasions are months apart. into socioeconomic crises trigger‑ Amendment Act (CAA). T he
year” and clicking just on the “send” but‑ There are even somewhat morbid views
ing revolutions in Tunisia, Egypt, Ayodhya verdict, hailed by the
ton with everyone on a distribution list; it about celebrating new year. Why do we Bahrain, Yemen, as well as civil Hindus, did not rile the Muslims
is not like I have to write every person a take the occasion of beginning of a new wars in Libya and Syria, in a wide‑ much, but CAA has. The ensuing
separate note or make numerous tele‑ year to wish happiness? Are we not a spread phenomenon commonly nationwide protests have been
phone calls. year closer to death? Is it our way of say‑ referred to as the Arab Spring. joined by many opposition parties,
T hen I started to wonder what the ing "now that you have one less year to In the US, the Obama eraʼs left‑ and students.
phrase "I wish you a very happy New live, try to make it a happy one"? What
Year" even means. Of course, I would about "Shubho noboborsho" and "Shubho
want happiness for everyone because I am Bejoya"? Are not those also wishing
a decent person but is it necessary to someone happiness for a period of one
openly declare it? The bigger question is year? Since these one‑year intervals over‑
whether my wish, a silent one or made in lap we might be wishing happiness to the

W
writing, really makes any dif ference in same person three times over a certain e are excited to announce our every year. This issue will also take a
anyone's life. I doubt it as I do not have period of time. Is that redundant or is double issue, dated January look at the 2010s decade and welcome
any supernatural power as far as I know. wishing more than once makes the wish 4‐17, 2020. To be released the New Year ‐‐ Vision 2020. Readers
We also do not follow up at the end of the stronger or more effective? on January 11, it will be our New Year‐ are welcome to send in their views and
year to see if the people we wished a Perhaps what we mean by "I wish" is not cum‐Person of the Year Special Issue, comments on the decade past and
happy new year really had a happy year. really a wish but "I imagine"; it is a fantasy which our readers look forward to what they wish for in the New Year.
Perhaps writing such a letter is just a about utopia, kind of like John Lennon's
TheSouthAsianTimes.info GEOPOLITICS Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 19

India as a Leading
By Ambassador
Power in the World
Sandeep Chakravorty
Presentation by

T Sandeep
he University of Chicago
historian William McNeil
has described the nature Chakravorty,
of power and its relationship
with notions of fairness and Consul General of
ethics in the following words: “It
seems unlikely that recent and India in New York,
prospect ive enlargement of
human capacities to organize at the ‘Next Steps
and exert power will be perma‑
nently arrested by scruples
for India’s Growth
against its use. Power, in short,
ingests weaker centers of power
& Development’
or stimulates its rival centers of
power to strengthen themselves.
symposium at
This fact has dominated the the Harvard
whole history of mankind. This
represents the realist school of Kennedy School,
international relations where any
ethical anchor is dispensable but Boston on
does reflect current geopolitical
reality substantially. In aspiring December 6, 2019
to be a leading power India too is
placing its bet on sinews of and investments, growth, human‑
and technology originating in systems and advanced technolo‑ have our presence felt in the
power, current and prospective. itarian assistance, peace and
Europe. The Meiji restoration of gies from apex centers and adopt third phase.
In Indiaʼs case the likelihood of security.
Japan is yet another example. them; Geopolitical factors favor the
being ʻingestedʼ by a more pow‑ China, which was the first
But the most recent example is 2) this is followed by a phase of emergence of India as a leading
erful entity can be rejected. The mover, now finds itself having to
a spectacular one, that is, of assimilat ion, mastering and center of power, co‑existing, col‑
question is whether India can be deal with pushback of several
China. In its 4 decades of open‑ internalizing of borrowed tech‑ laborating and competing with
or is stimulated to emerge as a kinds to its own expansive plans.
ing up it has soaked in Western nologies and knowledge systems; other major powers. Indiaʼs Indo‑
center of power. There is little doubt that new
knowledge and technology not 3) the emerg ing center of Pacific vision exemplifies its
McNeil has described how such pathways to a new order needs
unlike a giant sponge. During power is able to generate new ambition of being a "leading
a transference of power may take to be discovered soon.
this time it has been a student knowledge and technologies in a power". At the Shang ri‑La
place from an established to an India accepts this reality, and is
and a good apprentice. It has relatively autonomous manner. Dialogue in 2018, Indian Prime
aspiring one: “No population can w illing to embrace g reater
bided its time. This is when the displacement Minister Narendra Modi said the
overtake or surpass the rest of responsibility in anchoring a
In McNeilʼs terms, a geographi‑ of power becomes a reality and “destiny of the world will be
the world without using the most "rules‑based democratic order" in
cal displacement of power from contestation between the estab‑ deeply influenced by the course
ef ficient and powerful instru‑ the region. Indiaʼs geostrategic
the trans‑Atlantic to the trans‑ lished center of power and the of developments in the Indo‑
ments known anywhere on earth, vision for the Indo‑Pacific is
Pacific is happening with China emerging or emergent center of Pacific region”. Sheer numbers
and by definition such instru‑ unique. We are against pitting
at the center of power. The most power begins to become acute. alone elevate the importance of
ments are located at the world against any country or partici‑
obvious and consequential mani‑ China is probably in the second the Indo‑Pacific and its influence
centers of wealth and power ‑ pate in zero‑sum competitions
festation of the shift in power phase going to the third phase. In across the world. It is now home
wherever they may be. Thus any "between free and repressive
from the West to the East is the some areas it may well be in the to more than 65% of the worldʼs
geographical displacement of visions of world order". We also
geopolitical competition between third phase such as Artificial population who collectively pro‑
world leadership must be pref‑ do not accept propositions which
the United States and its chal‑ Intelligence or quantum comput‑ duce more than 60% of global
aced by successful borrowing create perverse dependencies
lenger China. W hile the US ing among others. GDP. Over half the worldʼs trade
from previously established cen‑ through economic statecraft and
remains the predominant power Where is India? In my personal passes through this region, and it
ters of the highest prevailing military coercion in a manner
China is obviously not satisfied view, I think India is mostly in hosts the fastest‑growing armada
skills. We have several examples better suited to the Cold War era.
with the status quo and intends the first phase while we have our of naval fleets along with seven
of this from history. The Roman Instead, India is positioning
to displace the US from its pre‑ centers of excellence in the sec‑ nuclear powers. This region will
empire borrowed heavily from itself to take a dif ferent path ‑
eminent position. ond phase be it in our space pro‑ also have a disproportionately
the Greek civilization and culture one that does not see the world
Let us try to understand how gram, computing, nuclear tech‑ hig h contribut ion to g lobal
in its march towards pre‑emi‑ in binaries, bifurcated between
the displacement of power hap‑ nology among others. Our aspi‑ growth in the decades ahead and
nence. During the pursuit of partners and allies on one side,
pens: ration is to graduate comprehen‑ will therefore script the new
dominance, the Arabs borrowed and competitors and adversaries
1) Countries borrow knowledge sively to the second phase and terms of trade, financial flows
heavily from the Indians, on the other.
Chinese, Central Asians and The Indo‐Pacific region will have a disproportionately high contribution India offers an opportunity for
Persians, particularly in mathe‑ engagement and dialogue to all
matics, astronomy and medical to global growth in the decades ahead and will therefore script the new states, big and small, democratic
science. The numerals that are terms such as trade and security. China, the first mover, finds itself and authoritarian, advanced or
commonly known as Arabic developing.
numerals are in fact of Indian
having to deal with pushback to its own expansive plans. So, new
The new vision moves away
origin. pathways to a new order need to be discovered soon. India accepts this from conceptions of non‑align‑
In more contemporary times
we have seen US building its
reality, and is willing to embrace greater responsibility in anchoring a ment or strategic autonomy,
tools of foreign policy that may
strengths on the basis of skills "rules‐based democratic order" in the region. Continued on page 20
 20 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 GEOPOLITICS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Continued from page 19 to the government to make deep power there are or will be only
and far reaching economic two countries ahead of us i.e. US
have outlived their correspon
reforms. A bold step was taken in and China and they are much
ding geopolitical utility. When
terms of reducing corporate tax‑ ahead, so we are not in competi‑
Prime Minister Modi stated that
ation to 15% for new companies tion. In fact, with the US our aspi‑
"the Indo‑Pacific region is not a
which is the lowest in the world). ration is to work closely with the
limited club of members", he sig‑
8 Frontal attack on corruption US to achieve our ambitions as
naled Indiaʼs intention to lead a
in high places, reduction in mega there are remarkable coinci‑
new configuration of states, guid‑
scams. dence of values and views on
ed by communities that yearn for
8 Demographic Dividend: in how we see the world. Russia,
deve lopment, markets that
2020, the average age in India and Japan are witnessing demo‑
require connectivity and nations
will be 29 years old (compared to graphic decline and Europe, too,
that seek security. Despite its
37 in China) is a fast ageing continent. Africa,
aversion of alliances, India is a
8 Making India a compliant the LAC, and ASEAN are competi‑
keen player in the evolving secu‑
society ‑ making India an honest tion but may lack Indiaʼs depth of
rity architecture in Asia. The new
country. strength in terms of economy,
American focus on Indo‑Pacific
8 Cleaning up the banks, bal‑ market size, demography, techno‑
has brought India at the center.
ance sheets, saying no to crony logical and innovation prowess.
To put in place a vision that
capitalism. In the ultimate analysis, it is
shapes the region and attracts
8 A problem solving approach how the country concerned
others, India needs to script its
of the Government. Bringing clo‑ grows strong internally and is
own expectations from four key
sure to issues, Ayodhya verdict, thus enabled to project its
relationships i.e. with China, US,
changing the narrative and try‑ strength externally that matters.
Indiaʼs Neighbors and the Global
Institutional Networks . In economic power, US and China are much ing out a new development ori‑ How this happens and how it is
ented approach in Kashmir done has to be discussed ad nau‑
T he Asian story cannot be ahead of us, so we are not in competition. In 8 Military: Strong military, third seum everywhere. It is like being
scripted by China alone, whether
it is on infrastructure connectivi‑ fact, our aspiration is to work closely with the largest in manpower, strong in on a cycle. We need to keep ped‑
defence acquisitions, creating aling for not stalling and falling
ty or managing security disputes. US to achieve our ambitions as there are relationships with major powers down. There is no leading from
The economic prosperity of the
region will be implicated by the
remarkable coincidence of values and views such as the US. Has power pro‑ behind. Even so, it is merely the
jection capabilities in HADR beginning of a decadal journey,
strength of the India‑China part‑ on how we see the world. roles. The 2004 Tsunami was a which will see India shoulder the
nership. It is in this context that
good example. expectat ions that be fit the
the engagements with China erful partners and this is an mation of India:
8 Technology: India has been a worldʼs largest democratic econ‑
embodying the Wuhan and the advantage. T he cosmopolitan 8 Ruling political dispensation
target of technology denial omy.
Mamallapuram spirit need to be temperament of Indiaʼs people enjoys unprecedented political
regimes such as NSG, MTCR, Conclusion
seen. and their ability to handle capital.
Australia Group and Wassenaar
The US is a key partner and immense diversity and adversity 8 Strong, charismatic, focused After independence India had
Arrangements. We have now
will be instrumental in making are unparalleled civilizational leadership. Absence of dissidence the choice to be satisfied with
become signatory to all except
India a $ 5 trillion economy. assets in dealing with a globaliz‑ which used to plague previous economic progress and leave its
NSG. India is now in a more com‑
T here is enormous ballast, ing world. governments. security quest ions to be
fortable position with respect to
momentum and dynamism in We are at a rare moment, at a 8 Ambitious goal setting: mak‑ addressed by other major pow‑
accessing technologies. Greater
this relationship and this will be specific juncture in history, when ing India a $5 tn economy in the ers. Countries like Australia,
IPR protection also available.
the key to Indiaʼs emergence as a I feel the conditions are propi‑ next five years, 100 million toi‑ Canada and Japan followed this
8 Domestic Technology and
leading power. I will not get into tious for India to emerge as a lets by 2019, drinking water to model. India could not accept
Innovation is being given impe‑
details of the transformation that leading power. India has already all homes in next 5 years, all this for the simple reason that its
tus. There are several pioneering
has taken place in our relation‑ been a leading power of sorts for homes electrified by 2019. economic, political and security
initiatives in place and Indiaʼs
ship in the last two decades. quite a while. With our size, pop‑ 8 Economy: India is a $ 3tn interests are a function of its
world ranking in innovation is
Suffice to say it is a mature rela‑ ulation, GDP in PPP terms and economy and about to become unique history, geography, polity
rising.
tionship bringing benefits to the also in dollar terms, we have sig‑ the 3rd largest economy in the and society. Indiaʼs ambitions of
8 Soft Power: India has unparal‑
people of both countries. nificant power projection capa‑ next 5 years. shaping the international order
leled soft power attributes.
India is actively engaging with bility in our immediate region, 8 There is a willingness to make to its own advantage are driven
Whether it is Yoga, Indian
its neighbors and except for some nuclear capability, impres‑ difficult choices‑ demonetization, by the desire to transform India
Cinema, Music, Cuisine. It gener‑
Pakistan, India is now scripting sive space capability, an increas‑ GST, IBC, corporate tax reduc‑ into a modern country and abol‑
ates tremendous goodwill and
new chapters in cooperation with ingly influential 35 million and tion, ambitious social sector ish poverty, hunger and illiteracy.
support for India all over the
all of them. A good example is more strong Diaspora, it can spending, Swachh Bharat The strategic elite sees foreign
world. In Soft Power I dare say
the transformat ion in India‑ hardly be denied that India is not Abhiyan, Universal Health Care policy primarily in lig ht of
we have a big advantage over
Bangladesh ties, of which I speak a leading power. But more has to for 500 mn Indians under the domestic priorities.
several world powers. Our chal‑
from personal experience. be done, particularly in improv‑ Ayushman Bharat program, India, as a rising power, has a
lenge of course is our ability or
Our multilateral engagement is ing the lives of our people and Housing For All, Electricity for different set of interests, capabil‑
inability to monetize it to the
also vigorous with the global providing services for the global All, Connecting All villages, ities and strategic culture from
advantage of our peoples as
institutional framework. So while good and to the global commons. Financial Inclusion as part of the other major powers. Former
efforts are sporadic and insuffi‑
we will be patient for getting a But transformation of India is on Jan Dhan Program among others Nat ional Security Advisor
cient.
permanent seat at the UN and we have to work on this ( Indiaʼs Finance Minister recent‑ Shivshankar Menon summarizes
The scenario that will emerge
Security Council, our participa‑ assiduously. ly said in New York that the huge the Indian way of conducting for‑
as this transformation is under‑
tion in other forums be it G‑20, Let us see what could be inter mandate given to the eign policy “as a combination of
way is illuminating. In economic
BRICS, SCO or IBSA is active and alia the factors in the transfor‑ Government provided the basis strategic boldness in conception
purpose ful. A part icularly and tactical caution in implemen‑
appealing product of our multi‑ The world has a stake in India fulfilling its immense potential. tation, by a fundamentally realis‑
lateral engagement is Indiaʼs tic approach masked by norma‑
leadership in the Paris Climate This needs to be leveraged to encourage a critical mass of tive rhetoric, by comfort in a plu‑
Change Accord and the setting ral and diverse world and by a
up of the International Solar
capital and technology to flow into India to accelerate the consciousness of Indiaʼs destiny
Alliance. Indian growth. As a vibrant and pluralist democracy, India as a great power”. Till the time
The world has a stake in India India becomes a great power, the
fulfilling its immense potential. shares political values of its more powerful partners and this is world will see an India focused
This needs to be critically lever‑ an advantage. The cosmopolitan temperament of India’s on increasing its power as well
aged to encourage a critical mass as taking more responsibilities
of capital and technology to flow people and their ability to handle immense diversity and globally.
into India to acce lerate the References
Indian growth. As a vibrant and
adversity are unparalleled civilizational assets in dealing 1. India's emergence as leading
pluralist democracy, India shares with a globalizing world. power, Shyam Saran, Business
political values of its more pow‑ Standard, November 13, 2019.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info SUBCONTINENT Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 21

Ashraf Ghani tops Afghan presidential elections

Kabul: Afg han President
Mohammad Ashraf Ghani has led
the preliminary results of the Abdullah refuses to
September presidential election by
50.64 per cent, Afg han
Independent Election Commission
accept election result
T
(IEC) announced. he campaign team of accept any results based on
Announcing the long‑awaited Afghan Chief Executive fraud, reports Efe news.
results, Chairperson of IEC Hawa Abdullah Abdullah has The poll results were delayed
Alam Nuristani told reporters that said that it would not accept the by months due to protests over
Ghani was followed by presidential results of the September 28 pres‑ allegations of electoral fraud.
hopeful and government's Chief idential election. Abdullah's campaign organiza‑
Executive Abdullah Abdullah who T he 59‑year‑old Abdullah's tion has said almost since the
secured 39.52 per cent of the campaign said in a statement start of the vote count that some
votes, Xinhua news agency report‑ that the candidate's Stability and 300,000 fraudulent or suspi‑
ed. Convergence Team would not cious ballots had been cast.
Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, leader of
Hizb‑e‑Islami of Afghanistan, has Afghanistan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani. votes amid reports of irregulari‑ tect the integrity of the final stage
bagged 3.85 per cent of the votes. ties. Tadamichi Yamamoto, the UN of the process," Tolo news report‑
The remaining 11 candidates tion outcome‑related complaints term in the polls he ld on Secretary‑General's Special ed. Meanwhile, Nuristani did not
had far fewer votes, w ith the w ith Independent Electoral September 28. Representative for Afghanistan, say when the final results will be
fourth place candidate winning Complaints Commission within The preliminary results were said, "Now, all Afghan authorities revealed. Under the Afghan law,
less than 2 per cent. three days. Fourteen out of the 18 supposed to be announced on and actors must demonstrate their final results cannot be announced
Nuristani said that the candi‑ registered hopefuls contested for October 19, but they were delayed commitment to safeguard and until serious complaints are adju‑
dates and voters can register elec‑ the presidency with a five‑year following audit and recount of complete the election, and to pro‑ dicated.

FATF seeks answers from Pak academic sentenced

Pak on madrassas linked to death over
blasphemy charges
to terror outfits
Islamabad: A global watchdog for terror financing 153 dispensaries associated with the JuD and its
has sought more clarifications and data from so‑called charity wing Falah‑i‑Insaniat Foundation
Pakistan on actions taken by it against madrassas (FIF) in province.
belonging to the banned outfits, weeks after At least 56 madrassas and facilities being run by
Islamabad submitted a report to the Paris‑based the JuD and FIF in southern Sindh province were
body detailing steps taken by the country to curb also taken over by authorities in the same month.
terrorism and money laundering. Saeed‑led JuD is believed to be the front organi‑
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which zation for the Lashkar‑e‑Taiba which is responsible
kept Pakistan on the Grey List for an extended for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The US
period till February 2020, had warned in October declared the LeT as a foreign terrorist organisation
that Islamabad would be put on the Black List if it in June 2014.
did not comply with the remaining 22 points in a Pakistan has been given January 8, 2020 dead‑
list of 27 questions. line to respond to the 150 questions, the official
Pakistan submitted a report comprising answers said.
to 22 questions to the FATF The FATF in its previous statement
on December 6. had said, "Should significant and sus‑
In response to the report, tainable progress not be made across
the FATF's Joint Group has the full range of its action plan by the Academic Junaid Hafeez was arrested for allegedly posting derogato‑
ry remarks against Prophet Mohammed on social media.
sent 150 questions to next plenary, the FATF will take
Pakistan, seeking some clarifi‑ action, which could include the FATF Islamabad: A Pakistan court sen‑ dead in May 2014 in his of fice. At
cations, updates and most calling on its members and urging all tenced Junaid Hafeez, a former uni‑ least nine judges were transferred
importantly actions taken jurisdictions to advise their FIs versity lecturer in Multan, to death on through the course of his case.
against the madrassas belong‑ (financial institutions) to give special blasphemy charges. Formerly a visit‑ Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue
ing to the proscribed outfits. attention to business relations and ing lecturer at the Department of in Pakistan, with even unproven alle‑
"We did receive a response transactions with Pakistan". Earlier, English Literature of the Bahauddin gations often prompting mob vio‑
from the FATF on our compli‑ the FATF had asked 27 questions per‑ Zakariya University (BZU), Multan, lence, said Dawn news.
ance report through an email taining to Pakistan's ef forts to stop Hafeez was booked on blasphemy Anyone convicted, or even just
in which they raised a set of terrorism financing. But Islamabad charges and was arrested by police accused, of insulting Islam, risks a
150 questions. Some of them FATF is an managed to satisfy the global watch‑ on March 13, 2013, Dawn news violent and bloody death at the hands
are seeking more data, some inter‑governmental body dog over just five of them. reported. The trial of the case started of vigilantes.
clarifications, and most impor‑ established in 1989 to Pakistan was placed on the Grey in 2014. In 2017, a mob in Abdul Wali Khan
tantly questions related to combat money laundering List by the FATF in June last year and Earlier this year, the academic's University Mardan beat student,
madrassas and actions taken and terror financing. was given a plan of action to complete parents had appealed to former Chief Mashal Khan, to death after accusing
against them having af filia‑ it by October 2019, or face the risk of Justice Asif Saeed Khosa to look into him of blasphemy over social media.
tion with proscribed outfits," The News quoted a being placed on the blacklist with Iran and North their son's case. Last year, the Supreme Court
top official source as saying. Korea. They had said their son had been acquitted Aasia Bibi, a Christian
According to officials, Mumbai terror attack mas‑ The FATF said Pakistan must demonstrate effec‑ languishing in solitary confinement in woman earlier condemned to death
termind Hafiz Saeed‑led Jamat‑ud Dawah's net‑ tive implementation of targeted financial sanctions a cell of the Central Jail, Multan, for on blasphemy charges, after accept‑
work includes 300 seminaries and schools. against all UN designated terrorists like Lashkar‑e‑ the last six years on the false charge ing her appeal against her sentence.
In March 2019, Punjab police said that govern‑ Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed, Jaish‑e‑Mohammad of blasphemy. Hafeez's previous So far, no one has been executed for
ment seized control of 160 madrassas, 32 schools, founder Maulana Masood Azhar, and those acting lawyer, Rashid Rehman, was shot blasphemy in the country.
two colleges, four hospitals, 178 ambulances and for or on their behalf.
 22 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 INTERNATIONAL TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Saudi sentences 5 to death Cuba appoints first prime

minister since 1976
over Khashoggi killing Havana: Cuban President
Miguel Diaz‑Canel has appoint‑
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has sen‑ operation" and put 11 defen‑ ed the country's first prime
tenced five people to death for dants, all of whom are Saudi minister in more than 40 years
their role in the killing of dissi‑ nationals, on trial earlier this ‑ the tourism minister, Manuel
dent journalist Jamal Khashoggi year. Marrero Cruz.
in Istanbul in 2018, the public Although the United Nations The post of prime minister
prosecutor said. and the United States Senate held was scrapped in 1976 by the
In a press conference, the crown prince responsible for then revolutionary leader Fidel
spokesman for the public prose‑ the crime, the kingdom's strong‑ Castro. It was reinstated under
cutor Shalan al‑Shalan explained man has not been prosecuted. the rules of a new constitution
that three other convicts The 59‑year‑old had been a for the communist‑run island
received a total of 24 years in jail columnist for the Washington passed earlier this year.
The post of PM was scrapped
for 'covering up the crime', Efe Post since 2017 after he left Marrero, 56, w ill take on in 1976 by the then revolu‑
news reported. Saudi Arabia and was openly crit‑ some of the responsibilities that tionary leader Fidel Castro.
He added that 10 others were ical of his country's monarchy. currently fall to the president.
released due to a lack of evi‑ Journalist Jamal Khashoggi T he Post has condemned "The head of government will deput ies in the Nat ional
dence. was a staunch critic of Khashoggi's killing, with its edito‑ be the administrative right Assembly. The state newspaper
Saudi Crown Prince. hand of the president of the Granma described Marrero as a
Investigations showed that rial page editor Fred Hiatt quali‑
"there was no prior intention to fying it as "a monstrous and republic," the BBC reported cit‑ politician who had emerged
Saudi consulate in Istanbul to
kill Khashogg i," al‑Shalan unfathomable act" if true, in a ing state‑run online news outlet "from the base" of the tourism
pick up the paperwork needed
explained. statement made in October. Cubadebate. industry, one of Cuba's main
for his planned marriage to his
Khashoggi's children, as well as He said Khashoggi was a "com‑ However, critics say any such sources of foreign exchange.
Turkish fiancée.
representatives from Turkey mitted, courageous journalist," changes are purely cosmetic as Marrero was named tourism
Saudi of ficials initially denied
have attended the hearings of the according to the Post. the Cuban Communist Party minister in 2004 by Fide l
Khashoggi's death at the con‑
case, according to al‑Shalan. Khashoggi's disappearance and the military remain the Castro and has since overseen a
sulate but later acknowledged he
Khashoggi, a staunch critic of sparked an outcry from the inter‑ only two real decision‑making major boost in tourism to the
had been killed when a fight
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed national community, drawing institutions on the island. island. It is unclear if he will
broke out.
bin Salman, was killed on condemnation from organiza‑ Marrero's appointment was now remain head of the min‑
Saudi Arabia has said
October 2 after he entered the tions and world leaders. rat ified unanimously by istry.
Khashoggi was killed in a "rogue

Turkey can't handle new IS getting stronger in

refugee wave: Erdogan Iraq again: Report
London: The presence of the Islamic State (IS) "We see the activities are increasing now, and
terror group in Iraq was a sophisticated insur‑ we think the rebuilding phase is over," said
gency, with a growing indication that the mili‑ Talabany, who heads the Zanyari Agency, one of
tants were re‑grouping two years after losing two intelligence agencies in Iraqi Kurdistan.
the last of its territory in the country, a media A dif ferent kind of IS has emerged, he said,
report said. which no longer wants to control any territory to
Kurdish intelligence officials estimate that IS is avoid being a target. Instead, the extremists have
strong in Iraq with between 4,000 and 5,000 gone underground, in Iraq's Hamrin Mountains.
fighters, and a similar number of sleeper cells "T his is the hub for IS rig ht now," said
and sympathizers, the BBC said in the reported. Talabany, adding: "It's a long range of moun‑
According to Lahur Talabany, a top Kurdish tains, and very dif ficult for the Iraqi army to
counter‑terrorism of ficial, the militants were control. There are a lot of hide‑outs and caves."
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. now more skilled and more dangerous than Al T he militants were also benefiting from
Qaeda. strained relations between Baghdad and the
Istanbul: Turkish President Recep more than a million people fled to "They are able to buy vehicles, weapons, food Kurdistan regional government, following a
Tayyip Erdogan has warned that Europe, if the violence did not end. supplies and equipment. Technologically they're Kurdish independence referendum in 2017, the
his country cannot handle a "new A ceasefire negotiated by Russia more savvy. It's more difficult to flush them out. BBC said in its report.
refugee wave" from Syria, adding and Turkey halted a Syrian govern‑ So, they are like Al Qaeda on steroids." "In the delta between the Great Zab and Tigris
that the fresh influx would be "felt ment assault on Idlib in August. But At his base in Sulaimaniya, nestled in the hills rivers we can say they (IS militants) are perma‑
by all European countries". skirmishes and bombardments of the Kurdistan region of Northern Iraq, nently there," an Army General told the BBC.
Speaking at an awards ceremony, were still an almost daily occur‑ Talabany painted a picture of an organization "There is too much activity from IS in the area
Erdogan said more than 80,000 rence, the BBC said. that has spent the past 12 months rebuilding close to the Tigris. Day by day we can see the
people from Idlib had fled to areas Turkey wants Syrian refugees to from the ruins of the Caliphate. movement of IS, and the activities."
near the Turkish border amid return to a "safe zone" in the north‑
heightened bombardments from east of Syria that was seized from
Syrian and Russian forces, reports Kurdish‑led forces in October.
the BBC. "If the violence towards But Ankara's of fensive in north‑
the people of Idlib does not stop, ern Syria drew widespread interna‑
Officials say
this number will increase even tional condemnation, and its safe
IS militants
more. In that case, Turkey will not zone plan has had little backing
are now
carry such a migrant burden on its from allies. more
own," he said. "We call on European countries dangerous
Turkey already hosts some 3.7 to use their energy to stop the mas‑ than Al
million Syrian refugees ‑ the largest sacre in Idlib, rather than trying to Qaedaʼs.
refugee population in the world. corner Turkey for the legitimate
Erdogan warned of a repeat of steps it took in Syria," Erdogan
the 2015 migrant crisis, when added.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info BUSINESS Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 23

China to adjust import tariffs Allow us to quit without serving

for some goods from Jan 1 notice period: Air India pilots
New Delhi: With uncer‑
Beijing: China will adjust import tainty looming large
tarif fs for a range of products over the fate of Air
starting January 1, 2020 to pro‑ India, the airline's pilot
mote high‑quality development of union has requested
trade, the Customs Tarif f the Centre to allow
Commission of the State Council them to quit the pas‑
has said. senger carrier without
The adjustments will be made to serving their not ice
expand imports, promote the coor‑ periods.
dinated development of trade and T he Indian
environment, advance the high‑ Commercial Pilots'
quality development of the jointly Association said this in
building of the Belt and Road, a letter to Civil Aviation At present, Air India has 800 pilots.
Xinhua news agency quoted the Minister Hardeep Singh
In 2020, China will continue to apply conventional tariff rates on
Commission as saying. Puri. A copy of the letter was also dues are not cleared," the letter
some products originated from 23 countries.
To stimulate import potential marked to Prime Minister said. At present, the union has
and opt imize the structure of for the production of new diabetes regions under the relevant free Narendra Modi and other senior 800 pilots as its members. As per
imports, China will implement pro‑ medicines to reduce medication trade agreements or preferential Union Ministers. the letter, currently 65 pilots
visional import tax rates that are costs and promote the production trade arrangements. Terming the Civil Aviat ion have tendered their resignations
lower than the most‑favored‑nation of new medicines, the Commission Further tarif f reduction will be Minister's statement that if Air and are serving the six‑month
(MFN) tarif f rates for over 850 said. The country will introduce or made according to the free trade India is not privatized by March notice period which is due for
commodities. cut provisional import tax rates for agreements China has separately 31, 2020, the airline will be shut completion "very soon".
The country will introduce or commodities including ferroniobi‑ signed with New Zealand, Peru, down as "a matter of concern", "Experienced commanders are
reduce the provisional import tax um and multi‑component integrat‑ Costa Rica, Switzerland, Iceland, the pilots' union said in the letter: also waiting to join other air car‑
rates on products including frozen ed circuit memories to expand the Singapore, Australia, South Korea, "With this uncertainty over the riers on complet ion of their
pork, frozen avocados and non‑ imports of advanced technologies, Georgia, Chile and Pakistan, as well survival of our national carrier respective notice period," the let‑
frozen orange juice amid efforts to equipment and spare parts, and as the Asia‑Pacific Trade and with no 'Plan B', we request ter said.
moderately increase the import of support the development of high‑ Agreement. you to ensure that we are not "We do not want to face the
daily consumer goods that are rela‑ tech industries. China will also In 2020, China will continue to treated like bonded labor and same fate as other employees of
tively scarce in the country or have introduce or lower the provisional apply preferential tarif f rates to allow us to quit Air India without 21 private carriers that have shut
foreign characteristics to better import tax rates for some wood the goods from the least developed serving the notice period and down and further add to the ris‑
meet people's needs. and paper products. countries that have established clear all our dues immediately." ing unemployment in India. We
China will impose zero import In 2020, the economic giant will diplomatic ties and completed the "It is unfair for the Government hope the Government of India
tax on pharmaceutical products continue to apply conventional tar‑ exchange of notes on the establish‑ of India to keep us bonded with will be sensitive towards our con‑
containing alkaloids for asthma if f rates on some products origi‑ ment of diplomatic relations with the notice period while we are cerns and ensure our livelihood
treatment as well as raw materials nated from 23 countries and China. not being paid on time and our is not affected," the letter said.

Mukesh Ambani Ex‑Maruti MD Khattar

adds $16.5 billion to
his fortune in 2019
booked for bank fraud
New Delhi: The CBI has registered
New Delhi: Re liance a case ag ainst former Marut i
Industries (RIL) Udyog Managing Director Jagdish
Former
Chairman Mukesh Khattar in connection with an
Maruti
Ambani added $16.5 bil‑ alleged bank loan fraud of Rs 110 Udyog
lion to his wealth in crore by his new company. Managing
2019 taking his total net T he Central Bureau of Director
worth to $60.8 billion, Investigation (CBI) has named Jagdish
according to the Khattar and his company, Khattar.
Bloomberg Billionaires Carnat ion Auto India Ltd, for
Index. allegedly causing a loss of Rs 110
With around $61 bil‑ crore to state‑run Punjab National
lion of net worth as of Bank (PNB). According to the FIR, a forensic cern/subsidiaries also. Thereby it
Tuesday, the petroleum‑ Khattar and his firm have been audit, conducted by the bank has committed misappropriation
to‑telecom tycoon is the named along with other unidenti‑ throug h K.G. Somani and of bank funds and has put them
Reliance Industries (RIL) Chairman
12th richest person in fied persons in the recent FIR filed Company, reported that the for own use," said the FIR.
Mukesh Ambani.
the world. by the agency in the case on a accused borrower had dishonestly On his part, Khattar in a state‑
The recent consistent rise in with Jio, then into the broadband complaint by the bank. Khattar and fraudulently sold fixed assets ment said that Carnation was a
RIL's shares prices is a major rea‑ services with Jio GigaFiber. The was with Maruti Udyog Ltd from costing Rs 6,692.48 lakh for a con‑ board managed company with the
son in the past one year. Data group has also strengthened it's 1993 to 2007 and was the compa‑ sideration amount of Rs 455.9 highest ethical standards and best
from the Nat ional Sto ck retail presence and would soon ny's Managing Director before lakhs without approval of the management practices.
Exchange (NSE) shows that said enter the e‑commerce segment retirement. After almost a gap of bank. These assets had been fur‑ Furthermore, he said that some
that RIL's share price rose by giving a tough competition to the around two years after his retire‑ nished as security to the bank, but of the most reputed investors in
over 41 per cent in the past one incumbents Amazon and Flipkart. ment, Khattar launched Carnation after the sale, the accused borrow‑ the country, including Premji
year. The list of the world's richest for which he got a loan of Rs 170 er did not deposit sale proceeds Invest and Gaja Capital were board
In the past few years, the com‑ individuals is topped by Bill Gates crore sanctioned in 2009. with the bank. members who, in their own inter‑
pany has significantly diversified with a net worth of $113 billion, As per the CBI's FIR, the loan "It was also found that the est, kept a tight vigil on its opera‑
its business with its disruptive aided by an addition of $22.4 bil‑ taken by Khattar was declared a accused borrower had dishonestly tions and finances.
entry into the telecom segment lion this year. non‑performing asset in 2015, and fraudulently extended loans The company was finally sold to
with effect from 2012. and advances to its sister con‑ the Mahindra Group.
 24 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 SPORTS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

India chase down 316 to clinch ODI series

Cuttack (Odisha): A big opening

Kohli, Dhoni in Wisden

stand between Rohit Sharma and K.L.
Rahul, Virat Kohli's 85 and a late
surge from Shardul Thakur and
Ravindra Jadeja helped India chase
down 316 and win the three‑match
series against the West Indies 2‑1 at
teams of the decade
London: India skipper Virat Kohli
the Barabati Stadium here.
has been named captain of the Wisden's ODI team
The West Indies seemed to have
gained the upper hand after dismiss‑
Wisden Test team of the decade. of the decade:
The list which features many ace 1. Rohit Sharma (India) 2. Virat
ing Kohli late in the game, but
cricketers of the world, includes Kohli (India) 3. David Warner
Thakur came in and turned the game
ace of f‑spinner Ravichandran (Australia) 4. AB de Villiers
around with the bat to see the hosts
Ashwin as the only other Indian. (South Africa) 5. Jos Buttler
home. India's chase started with yet
Significantly in the longest for‑ (England) 6. Shakib Al Hasan
another strong opening stand
mat of the game, Kohli has (Bangladesh) 7. M.S. Dhoni 8.
between Rahul (77) and Rohit (63).
amassed 7202 runs from 94 Lasith Malinga 9. Mitchell Starc
The pair put up 122 runs in just Men in blue celebrate after winning the match against West Indies. games, averaging 54.97 which (Australia) 10. Trent Boult
21.2 overs to put India firmly in the
also includes 27 tons and 25 half‑ (New Zealand) 11. Dale Steyn
driving seat. through with the wicket of Rohit. Indies tightened the noose after that
centuries. On the other hand, (South Africa)
During the course of his knock, Holder bowled a length delivery that with Keemo Paul getting Shreyas
Ashwin has scalped 362 wickets
Rohit broke Sri Lanka great Sanath had some extra bounce and Rohit Iyer and Rishabh Pant in quick suc‑
from 70 Tests which includes 27 David Warner (Australia) 3.
Jayasuriya's 22‑year‑old record for ended up nicking it to Shai Hope cession. Kedar Jadhav then fell to
five‑wicket hauls. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) 4.
most runs in a calendar year by an behind the stumps. Sheldon Cottrell and the match was
Meanwhile, in the Wisden ODI Steve Smith (Australia) 5. Virat
opener across formats. Rohit's ninth Kohli and Rahul, however, seemed poised on a knife's edge with India
team of the decade, Kohli, opener Kohli (India) 6. Ben Stokes
run took his tally to 2,388 runs, to continue the good work until the 228/5 in 39 overs.
Rohit Sharma and former India (England) 7. AB de Villiers (South
which took him past Jayasuriya's latter was done for pace by Alzarri Ravindra Jadeja then held on with
skipper M.S. Dhoni have made the Africa) 8. R Ashwin (India) 9. Dale
1997 tally of 2,387 runs. Joseph. Joseph hurried Rahul into Kohli as the pair went about repair‑
cut. Wisden's Test team of the Steyn (South Africa) 10. Kagiso
Rohit and Rahul kept India in tucking the ball away of f his hips ing the damage. The two stitched a
decade: Rabada (South Africa) 11. James
cruise mode in the first 20 overs which led to it ballooning straight counter attacking stand to tip the
1.Alastair Cook (England) 2. Anderson (England)
until Jason Holder got the break‑ into the hands of Hope. The West balance in India's favor.

I took up boxing because Hope to make it to

of Vijender Singh: Sakshi the NBA one day:
Princepal Singh
New Delhi: Sakshi Chaudhary has been rec‑ else but the sport. Her dedication and sacri‑
ognized as one of the best prospects for fices made sure she rose to prominence
India in international boxing. After Vijender when she was only 15. She beat US
Singh won a medal in the Beijing Olympics National champion Yarisel Ramirez in the
New Delhi: Princepal Singh
in 2008, Bhiwani Boxing Club in Haryana final of the AIBA World Junior Women's
has been living in Canberra,
had an energetic youngster waiting at their Championships. The win made her deter‑
Australia, training at the
doorstep eager to become a pugilist. Sakshi mined to work even harder.
NBA Global Academy there
had taken inspiration from Vijender and "After I started boxing, I participated in
since 2018. The teenager
was determined to become a boxer. my first tournament after just 15 days. I
who hails from Dera Baba
"I want to become a boxer like Vijender, I won the silver medal and was even more
Nanak village in Gurdaspur
try copying his style and I'm very motivated after that," added the boxer.
district, is among the 12
impressed with his determination. I want to Sakshi hailed the Khelo India Youth
young prospects who will
reach the highest level in boxing just like Games (KIYG) for supporting young talents.
undergo training for the
my idol, Vijender," said Sakshi, who is cur‑ "Khelo India is one of the best platforms for
next two years and har‑
rently in Delhi for the Asian Championship young talents to showcase their skills and Princepal Singh.
bours dreams of making it
trials. also learn from opponents. I participated in
to the NBA one day. In 2014, Princepal sions when I was alone, he would be
Sakshi's father, who is a farmer, was Khelo India last year and it was a good
was a 14‑year‑old who had appeared at there and he gave me confidence to do
eager that she learn a sport at a young age experience for me. I was surprised at the
Ludhiana's Guru Nanak Stadium com‑ well," he said.
and her mother supported Sakshi making level of competition in the Khelo India
plex to enroll at its volleyball academy. Princepal was soon drafted into the
sure she did not have to focus on anything Youth Games."
Basketball was a sport he was almost NBA Academy in New Delhi and from
completely unaware of. "I got to know of there, his career picked up rapidly. He
the sport only then. I was giving trials excelled in a number of camps and in
for volleyball and there were basketball 2017 received a call‑up to the junior
trials happening on the other side of the national team. A year later, he received
arena," he says. Jaipal Singh, a coach his first call up to the senior team which
from the Punjab Basketball Academy, played at the Super Kung Sheung Cup
spotted him and decided to take him in. International Championship.
Princepal now stands 6 feet 10 inches He says that the routine he has in
tall and said that the skills he had from Australia was not too different to what
Boxer Sakshi
playing volleyball came in handy in his he had to follow in New Delhi which
Chaudhary.
new sport. "I did not face any problems made adjusting to a new country easier.
while making the switch. Many of the Princepal idolizes Anthony Davis and
skills I had learnt as a volleyball player tries to emulate the Los Angeles Lakers
like jumping and running are all needed forward in the way he plays.
in basketball too," he said. In the few years he has played the
He said Jaipal taught him the basics of sport, Princepal himself has experi‑
the game and gave him the confidence enced a meteoric rise of sorts which has
of being able to do well. "He was always led to him being touted as the next face
there for me. Even in the afternoon ses‑ of Indian basketball.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info HEALTH Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 25

Age for buying tobacco and Indians are more depressed and
vapes raised to 21 in America anxious than before
A T
fter the US Congress voted to in three states and several munici‑ he contribution of mental more than half of the mental disor‑
raise the age for purchasing palities, including New York City as disorders to the total disease ders. In terms of absolute numbers,
tobacco – rule applies to e‑ of this week. burden in India between 45.7 million people suffered from
cigarettes as well as more traditional E‑cigarettes have been singled out 1990‑2017 ̶ 28 years ̶ has depression while 44.9 million bat‑
tobacco products ‑‑ from 18 to 21, for criticism in 2019 because of a nearly doubled. Measured in terms tled anxiety disorders.
President Donald Trump has signed sudden lung injury crisis that affect‑ of years of healthy life lost due to 8 Women worst sufferers: Women
the bigger spending bill ed thousands of peo‑ disability or Disability Adjusted Life get the short end of the stick vis‑a‑
containing this measure. ple and killed over Years (DALY), mental disorders con‑ vis men. The prevalence of both
This change, which will 40. But the Tobacco tributed 4.7% of the total DALY in depression and anxiety among
likely go into effect next 21 movement has India in 2017 ̶ up from 2.5% in women ̶ at 3.9% each ̶ is much
year, has been in the focused on tobacco 1990. The result? 1 in 7 Indians higher than the prevalence of these
works for a while. In use in general, not now suffers from a mental disorder. two mental disorders among men,
April, Senate Majority just vaping. And regu‑ Add to that the paucity of psychia‑ at 2.7% each. Additionally, while the
Leader Mitch McConnell lators have been trists in India ̶ at 0.3 per 100,000 prevalence of depression increased
(R‑KY) started pushing a slowly moving people ̶ while the ideal require‑ in adults above 45, prevalence of
bill to raise the buying age for tobac‑ toward treating e‑cigarettes like ment is at least 10 times that figure. anxiety was higher in adolescents
co, saying he was responding to a other tobacco products for years. 8 Depression and anxiety: 14.3% and young adults.
dramatic rise in teen vaping. Trump Research suggests that vaping can of India's population ̶ or 197.3 8 Development equals depres‑
publicly supported raising the vap‑ be a safer alternative to smoking cig‑ million people ̶ were diagnosed as sion? The study also found that
ing age to 21 in November, and 19 arettes, but it poses a greater health suffering from some form of mental there was a higher prevalence of
states plus the District of Columbia risk than not smoking anything at health issue in 2017, according to a both depression and anxiety disor‑
have already passed “Tobacco 21” all, and it can lead teenagers to take study by ICMR and the Ministry of ders in the relatively more devel‑ Goa while for anxiety, the highest
laws, starting with Hawaii in 2015. up cigarette smoking. The US Food Health & Family Welfare, published oped southern and western states prevalence was found in Kerala,
Raising the buying age could take and Drug Administration issued a in The Lancet Psychiatry. than northern states. The highest Karnataka, Telangana, Tamil Nadu,
regulatory pressure off tobacco com‑ broad set of regulations for the Depression alone constituted a prevalence of depression was Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra,
panies in other areas, like flavored e‑ devices in 2016, banning their sale third of all mental health DALY and observed in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, along with Himachal Pradesh, West
cigarettes, which have been banned to people under 18. together with anxiety, comprised Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Bengal and Manipur.

Hangovers: This is what happens to

your body when you’ve had one too many
H
aving a few drinks on ed you just have to wait it out. The constrictor, which constricts your
Christmas and New Year liver can metabolize between 8g blood vessels and causes that
eve is, for some people, as and 12g of alcohol in an hour and throbbing headache. Meanwhile,
much a part of the festive tradition the only way to become less drunk vodka might be more forgiving
as presents, decorations or carols. is to stop drinking so the alcohol since “pure” vodka is just alcohol
So if you find yourself nursing a can diffuse out of your brain and and water.
hangover on Boxing Day or New your liver can complete the break‑ The only other thing that might
Year Day, you might be interested down. help reduce your hangover after a
to know whatʼs actually going on Aside from the vomiting, we heavy drinking session is a glass
inside your body and why you feel donʼt know exactly why we feel so of water before bed. Alcohol stops
so bad. terrible when weʼre hungover, but your pituitary gland producing the
We tend to drink because in low it is thought to be another effect anti‑diuretic hormone vasopressin,
doses alcohol is initially a euphori‑ of ethanal and congeners, the non‑ which normally restricts urine
ant, it makes you feel happier. It alcoholic chemical clutter that is a production. This means you end
does this by causing the body to by‑product of fermentation. These up losing more water than you
release dopamine and endorphins, include oils, minerals and other take in, causing dehydration that
chemicals that st imulate the absorbed in the stomach (rather and explosive vomiting. Itʼs effec‑ forms of alcohol such as methanol irritates the blood vessels, leading
brainʼs reward system. But, as you than the small intestine). It then tively a form of aversion therapy. (wood alcohol), which can cause to headaches.
drink more, it ultimately suppress‑ spreads throughout the body and you to go blind in high doses. Otherwise, youʼll just have to
es some brain activity and slows is distributed to all organs includ‑ Hangover causes Darker drinks have hig her console your post‑Christmas and
down your heart and breathing. ing the brain and the liver, where Unfortunately, thereʼs no drug to amounts of congeners. Red wine New Year blues with roast dinner
Note that even before you arrive the body makes a valiant attempt treat drunkenness itself – or a also causes a particularly vicious leftovers and your favorite holiday
at the typical drink drive limit, you to break down and dispose of the hangover. Once you are intoxicat‑ hangover since it contains a vaso‑ film.
might experience excitement, alcohol.
uncoordinat ion, impairment,
speech slurring, swaying, etc. Why you vomit
Small amounts of alcohol af fect As you drink more, your blood
the limbic system in the brain, ethanol level is being monitored
which results in aggression and by the area postrema, the part of
the Friday and Saturday night your brain which checks your
melees common in many town blood for things that shouldnʼt be
centers. there. If you eat some food which
Alcohol is also a vasodilator, causes vomiting and diarrhoea, itʼs
which means it widens blood ves‑ your postrema that has instructed
sels, diverting blood from the your body to get rid of the offend‑
bodyʼs core to its extremities. This ing comestibles.
results in the characterist ic Disulfiram (Antabuse) is a drug
flushed cheeks you can get from used to treat chronic alcoholism
consuming alcohol. that stops the subsequent break‑
Alcohol is absorbed quicker than down of ethanal after you drink,
most things since some is causing an immediate hangover
 26 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 SELF HELP TheSouthAsianTimes.info

6 ideas for a New You Are you getting all your vitamins?
in the New Year Revamping your diet in 2020
G
etting all the vitamins
and nutrients you need
each day is one of the
most important things you can do
to feel your best. The good news
is that you donʼt need to devote
hours each week to meal prep to
ensure youʼre healthfully getting
essential vitamins. As you make
your 2020 plans to revamp your
diet, here are a few things to keep
in mind:
8 Donʼt follow fads: When it
comes to your wellness, itʼs best
to rely on basic science, not the
latest fad diets or sports drinks
and supplements that rely on itʼs through meditation, journaling, cooking
added sugars, fillers, preservatives, artificial or jogging ‑‑ discover what hobbies and well‑
flavors, sweeteners, dyes, and negatives. ness activities help you reduce your stress
Look for products that transparently list all levels and be sure to make time for them.

T
their ingredients. 8 Refuel wisely: If you hit the gym fre‑
he new year is the perfect time to apps to create a budget and stick to it. 8 Drink your vitamins: Did you know that quently, you likely have tried one or two
hit the reset button and get a fresh Find one that will actually send you push liquids are the most bioavailable form for sports drinks and know how important it is
start. Here are six resolution ideas, notifications when youʼve exceeded your your body to absorb nutrients? For complete to refuel quickly and wisely after a workout.
plus tools and strategies for accomplish‑ limits. health on‑the‑go, consider drinking your For optimal high performance, consider
ing each: 8 Make Music: Whether learning to vitamins. One effective solution is Drink upgrading your drink of choice. With double
8 Audiobooks: Want to read more but play for the first time or resolving to cre‑ Nutrient, which offers single‑serve stick the electrolytes of leading sports drinks,
never seem to have an opportunity to curl ate your own compositions, new tools can packs that make it easy to get the essential Liquid Nutrient has a potassium‑to‑sodium
up with a good book? Downloading audio‑ support your efforts. Bonus benefits: vitamins you need. Among its offerings is ratio intended for high‑quality hydration, as
books and listening to them during com‑ learning to play keyboard will improve Vitamin Coffee, a natural sustained energy well as amino acids for mental focus and
mutes and workouts can be the perfect hand‑eye coordination and stimulate cog‑ booster made from 100 percent Colombian muscle repair.
way to “read” when you donʼt have dedi‑ nitive brain activity. Arabica coffee that offers 50 percent of your 8 Maximize meals: To maximize meals,
cated time in your day. 8 Declutter: The act of decluttering daily essential vitamins in each serving. make sure the bulk of the calories you con‑
8 Get Fit: Working out more is one of your home is important, however it can Served hot or cold, itʼs a good choice for any‑ sume are not “empty.” Empty calories, such
the most common New Yearʼs resolutions seem daunting, making this one resolution one who needs a caffeine boost without the as added sugars and solid fats, contain little
people make. To get this one to stick, con‑ that many people make but donʼt keep. crash. Or, to get 100 percent of your daily to no nutritional value. Fill up on dark leafy
sider tools that will make reaching your Rather than assume you need to dedicate essential vitamins and 610 mg of elec‑ vegetables, berries, nuts, seeds and good‑for‑
goals more fun. The latest additions to the an entire day or weekend to tidy up, block trolytes in one go, consider Vitamin you fats like avocado and salmon, while
G‑SHOCK Womenʼs lineup of sports out just five to 10 minutes a day to clear Booster+, which contains real fruit juice, less avoiding chips, cakes and other junk foods.
watches are a good example of how wear‑ out small areas. Before you know it, youʼll than one gram of sugar, and is only 15 calo‑ Donʼt let your busy lifestyle get in the way of
able tech can support fitness goals. start to see some major improvements. ries per serving. ensuring youʼre getting all the nutrients you
8 Control Spending: Itʼs all too easy to You can even make it fun by putting on 8 De‑stress: Too much stress can compro‑ need to feel your best. This new year, resolve
spend more than one has or should in any music and cleaning for three‑song seg‑ mise your bodyʼs ability to absorb nutrients. to revamp your diet for optimal
given day, week or month. Use digital ments at a time. So, take steps to relax and unwind. Whether nutrition.

Best flu hacks every traveler should know

W
hile everyone wants to make the that Oscillococcinum reduces the duration your schedule can make for stress‑free travel.
most of their vacation, travel can and severity of flu symptoms such as body 8 Exercise boosts energy and immunity, so
do a number on oneʼs health, and aches, headache, fever, chills and fatigue. donʼt take a vacation from workouts while
during flu season, the risk of feeling unwell is Widely available in supermarkets and drug‑ traveling. Pack workout wear and carve out
even higher. Feel your best with these tips: stores, this flu medicine is taken without time for exercise.
8 Flu levels increase during winter water, making it an ideal travel remedy. 8 Unusual travel schedules, unfamiliar
because people spend more time in enclosed 8 Will you arrive in time to make your beds and crossing time zones can disrupt a
spaces together touching surfaces and breath‑ connection? What if you forgot to pack Aunt sleep schedule. Get plenty of rest before your
ing “shared” air. Traveling only amplifies this. Ethelʼs present? Thereʼs no doubt that travel trip to keep your bodyʼs natural defenses at
Reduce your chances of swapping germs by can cause stress, which research has shown optimum levels.
avoiding contact with shared items. For exam‑ can increase susceptibility to flu and even Getting sick can put a damper on even the
ple, donʼt put your face directly on airline‑ increase the severity of symptoms. Being flex‑ best vacation. Take steps to feel your best.
supplied pillows or blankets that havenʼt been to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every ible, prepared and building extra time into (StatePoint)
sanitized. hour in the air. Under the weather? Drink
8 Ironically, just when handwashing is
most vital ‑‑ while traveling ‑‑ it becomes less
more than the daily recommended 8‑10 cups
to prevent dehydration caused by fever,
Consulting Service for Commercial Loans
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hands. More importantly, avoid rubbing your 8 Getting medical attention away from Exports/Imports, Commercial Property, Investment property, and
eyes or nose. home is tough. Travel smart with over‑the‑ Manufacturing. The types of financing are for Working Capital,
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trips. Yet, when mucous membranes are dry, uses have not been evaluated by the Food and Anyone interested in getting finance please contact me at 646‐498‐5122 or
they canʼt keep germs at bay. A general rule is Drug Administration, clinical studies show email shomik@shomikchaudhuri.com.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info COLUMNS Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 27

Entry doors to the US do not guarantee exits too

By Suchitra Srinivas a cause for worry. It is here that the on our accelerated journey. Just in abroad. The diversion through social
best of life changes happen begin. high school to think of an exit is no and cultural institutions and their

P
lanting a foot on American Marriage, dream house, dream jobs, option. Those who do force to find activities are worth a mention.
soil is a dream shared by children, their education, social life, themselves out find the back‑home “Living in New Jersey, I find a sea
many across the world. The vacationing around the world and adjustments hard, so they return to change in recent years. For instance,
promises of fered by this ʻland of what not. Everything enjoyable, good the US. For many, the citizenship that a weekend is filled with some cultur‑
opportunityʼ attracts all who dare to enough but the steep curve of joy gives a choice to go back to India is al or religious engagement that
dream. Planning and preparation for soon plateaus out and enthusiasm the one that draws them back too,” keeps us busy and connected with
the entry are often an elaborate gets satiated. With the green card rues Radha Parthasarathy, who came the memories from our home land.
process that begins early in the and citizenship process, one sudden‑ back after a brief exit. This was not possible 20 years ago
homeland. ly feels strangely emancipated. Most “We moved into the US with just when we were in our prime,” recalls
No sooner than setting foot, immi‑ people think now they can exert two suitcases and our plan was to Rajaswamy, 75.
grants start to realize that the their ʻfree willʼ with no more con‑ stay till my husbandʼs short‑term These are healthy trends that help
American entry doors work mostly trols of the visa paper on their lives. project got concluded. 21 years and keep calm when the road leading to
one way. Some receive their evacua‑ The lookout for exit doors starts we are still here with no regrets or an exit becomes elusive. The adjust‑
any stranger seen on the road, the creeping at this juncture but the remorse except missing the memo‑ ments prepare us for the life ahead.
tion notice much earlier than expect‑
common laundry rooms that one real‑life situation and commitments ries back home,” said Saanvi Gopal. But those planning to enter the land
ed, while others, no matter how hard
waits in queue for, the public school tie us down. “Today after 15 years, I A lot of adjustments and compro‑ of opportunities should be beware.
they try, never succeed in finding the
that oneʼs child studies free of charge feel that we could have reached the mises seem to tighten their hold on You do not have access to the exit
exit doors. Then there are some
are exciting experiences that a new exit doors much easier had our visa the immigrants who slogged away to doors at will.
smart ones who exit out only to find
immigrant cherishes. But this honey‑ extensions been rejected then. come just to continue to stay. Each
themselves back again soon.
Undoubtedly there is something
moon period ticks away too soon. Would you call this regret? Not at all. and every family event, big and Suchitra
magical here that goes unexplained.
During this phase, the only Just a desire to go back. Our belief small, the moments of joy with par‑ Srinivas is a
thought that holds one is that of that ʻif we could have toiled to reach ents and the extended family, the journalist
As an immigrant, one could bring a
making the most of the new opportu‑ the entry doors, exiting was our own nursing option for ailing parents and
couple of suitcases but soon will find based at
nity before returning. The goal veers design,ʼ is a myth. The luxury, com‑ what not. At every stage, the trained
his possessions piling. Every dollar
around extending the period of stay. fort or the independence that once and forced mental and emotional
New Jersey.
bill that enters the purse is earned
by sweat and tears, making it an
The residing duration is often deter‑ beckoned no longer seem exciting. transformation by the immigrants to She can
mined by the stamping on the visa When everything else is so con‑ accept these packages of immigra‑ be contacted at
exciting phase for anyone. Be it the
paper. On entering the country as a ducive to return, the road to exit tion is not often acknowledged. The
first car that one buys or the first
student, getting a suitable placement
suchitrasrinivas
condo that one rents, to the public seems to be sealed tight,” lamented success is manifested by the creation
would be the concern. If on H‑1B, Ramaswami Raghavan. of a whole new world of friends and
@hotmail.com. Column
parks where one enjoys a peaceful
morning stroll, the welcome smile of
then expected extensions are indeed “Today our children apply brakes family that one re‑creates in life first appeared in DTNext.

By Dev Banad Viswanath, Esq. &

Michael Phulwani, Esq.
Protecting children from “aging out” of petitions
C
hild Status Protection Act

Child Status Protection Act

(CSPA) offers a method to
calculate a personʼs age to
see of they meet the criteria of a
child for immigration purposes.
8 Properly file Form I‑485; or

VISA
According to the Immigration and their CSPA is their age on the date ried. The formula is calculated based
Nationality Act (INA) the definition of the principal asylee parents or Form on the age of the child when the peti‑ 8 Submit a completed Part One of
a child is a person who is both I‑730 petitioner filed their Form I‑ tion was filed, the number of years Form DS‑260; or

TALK
unmarried and under 21 years of 589. If the petitioner was under the for the petition to become approved. 8 Have a Form I‑824 properly
age. If a petitioner applies for lawful age of 21 at the time their parentʼs The age of the beneficiary when Visa filed on their behalf.
permanent resident (LPR) status as a filed Form I‑589, their age froze as of Numbers become available. If an LPR becomes a naturalized
child but turns 21 before their LPR that date and they will not age out. If the petitioner is under this cate‑ citizen before their child receives
application is adjudicated, that peti‑ (VAWA) self‑petitioners and deriva‑ In order to be granted derivative asy‑ gory, in order to use the CSPA age their Green Card, their childʼs peti‑
tioner will no longer be considered a tive applicants; lum and to qualify for a Green Card they must pursue to gain lawful per‑ tion is converted to either an imme‑
child for immigration purposes. This 8 Employment based preference under INA section 209 the petitioner manent resident status within one diate relative or family first prefer‑
circumstance is usually referred to derivative applicants; must be unmarried. year of a visa becoming open to ence case. There are also an addi‑
as “aging out” and means that those 8 Diversity immigrant visa (DV) Immediate Relative: If a petitioner them. This is called the “seek to tional amount of time that can be
petitioners would have to file a new derivative applicants; is an immediate relative, a VAMA acquire” requirement. If this require‑ calculated to protect a childʼs age
petition or application, or that their 8 Derivative refuges; and self‑petitioning abused spouse or ment is not satisfied, USCIS may use because of the September 11, 2001
petition category will convert to an 8 Derivative asylees. child of a U.S. citizen, or a derivative its discretion to excuse this require‑ attacks, and the Patriot Act illus‑
adult, and for both scenarios they If a petitioner is applying for a child of a VAMA self‑petitioning ment if the petitioner can show that trates this additional protection.
will wait even longer for a Green Green Card based on one of the cate‑ abused spouse or child of a U.S. citi‑ the requirement was not met due to The CSPA is the saving grace for so
Card, or it may be that they no gories above, they are eligible for zen, their age is frozen on the date special circumstances. Under the many families that have wait many
longer be eligible for a Green Card. CSPA consideration if the proper the Form I‑130 or Form I‑360 was “seek to acquire” requirement the many years for their opportunity for
To avoid children from “aging out” forms were filed or pending on or filed. If the petitioner was under the petitioner must: a green card.
and having to start all over CSPA was after August 6, 2002. age of 21 at the time the petition
created and went into effect on Refugees and Asylees: If a petition‑ was filed, they are qualified for CSPA Dev Banad Viswanath is the Principal
August 6, 2002. er is a derivative refugee then their and will not age out. The petitioner Attorney of The Banad Law Offices PC
The meaning of a child did not CSPA age is their age on the date the must remain unmarried or they will in the United States,
change under the CSPA. The new cal‑ principal refugee parent or Form I‑ not qualify for CSPA. and Banad Immigration in India for which
culated age of the child is called 730 petitioner filed their I‑590. If Family and Employment Attorney Michael Phulwani is also affiliated
“CSPA age” and it allows some peti‑ the petitioner was under the age of Preference and Diversity Visa as Of Counsel. With Offices in Manhattan,
tioners to remain classified as a child 21 at the time of their parentʼs inter‑ Immigrants: If a petitioner is a family Queens, Bangalore, and Mumbai, the firm is
view, their age froze as of that date preference, employment‑based pref‑ able to assist clients with all facets of the
past their 21st birthday. The benefi‑
and they will not age out. In order to erence, or DV applicant, their CSPA immigration process, including
ciary MUST still be unmarried. The
qualify as a derivative refugee, the age is calculated by subtracting the Employment Visas, Consular Visa Assistance,
following people may take advan‑
petitioner must be unmarried but number of days their petition was Student Visas, Removal & Deportation, US
tage of the CSPA Citizenship and Green Card Applications
8 Immediate relatives; they do not need to remain unmar‑ pending from their age on the date
based on Family or Employment. Dev B.
8 Family sponsored preference ried in order to qualify for a Green an immigrant visa becomes available
Viswanath can be reached at
principal and derivative applicants; Card under INA section 209. to them. In order to qualify for CSPA
Dev@Banadlaw.com and 718‑361‑5999.
8 Violence Against Women Act If a petitioner is a derivative asylee the petitioner must remain unmar‑
 28 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 LIFESTYLE TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Get ready for that all‑night long party!

T
he excitement of certainly spoilt for choice. Or why pled with silver or gold plated liner and kajals which have now casual blazer with slim‑fit chinos.
Christmas and New Year leave out that bo dy hugg ing bracelets, be it cuff or charm. But become an everyday necessity. If none of these are exciting, get
parties has begun to build dress or a sequined/embroidered if you wish to carry of f some Now your ensemble is sure to into a youngster's shoes with
up and you sure w ish to be wrap dress or a simple solid/lace Indian jewelry, head for silver stand out! those skinny fit denim jeans and
updated with the latest party A‑Line dress which could look plated or oxidized jhumkas, hoop Love the footwear a solid biker jacket for that party
wear trends. Of course, that just nice on you! You could also or drop earrings, or simply the night.
St ilettoes, blo ck hee ls, flat
innate desire to look the best go with embellished dresses for ever beautiful and contemporary And what shoes to go with your
shoes, wedges or
among your friends and family is that extra shimmer and shine! gold plated chaandbalis, any of outfit? Put on some smart formal
platforms…options aplenty. Since
guaranteed to rack your nerves Pick some bold colors which these will do justice to your cho‑ ''Derbys'' or ''Brogues,'' and you
you will be dancing the night
till you get it right. So are some could certainly make you a trend‑ sen outfit. are all set to go and rock the
through as you ring in the New
suggestions on what can make setter!
Go‑glam with Year, choose the ones that can party!
you stand out in the crowd with For the outer wear, how about Since it's going to be an all
the latest fashion trends, shared adding on some denim or solid make‑up! pull you through without tiring
your little feet. night long party, choose an attire
by Myntra Fashion Stylist! Go tailored jackets, or open‑front Pick up that palette, and add a which is comfortable, yet takes
ahead and mix‑n‑match, relish the shrugs for that smart look. Or touch of glitter eyeshadow of What's in store your fancy. Add that dash of
some crazy colors for the eyes to
envious glimpses and party hard! you could even add coats of all for men? make‑up, wear that lovely fra‑
Choose from a myriad sorts such as bomber, peplum, do all the talking. Stand out with
Though it's the usual shirts and grance, and don't miss that state‑
trench or a cape‑style. a long lasting bold lipstick (so
of dress styles trousers for men, go with regu‑ ment jewelry.
Add that little bling! you can eat to your hearts con‑
Dresses are the go‑to option for lar/slim fit dark solid shirts for a And before you step out, grab
tent and still have it on!), and a
this Christmas and New Year Just don't leave those ears, hig hlig hter mixed w ith your toned down look or floral shirts your clutch and you are there…a
party season. Be it lace or solid hands and neck bare! How about foundation for an over‑all moist for that feeling of being alive and perfect fashionista going places!
maxi dresses, solid sheath dress‑ layered chains to go with your yet luminous glow. And don't for‑ bright! Another add‑on could be a After all, it's the style which
es or fit and flare dresses, you are sassy gowns/evening dress, cou‑ get the regulars…a mascara, eye smart single‑breasted slim fit speaks for you!

Indians order 95 biryanis per Manushi, Sunil Chhetri PETA India's

minute from Swiggy: Report Hottest Vegetarians of 2019
I M
ndians ordered on an average 95 iss World 2017 Manushi
biryanis per minute or 1.6 birya‑ Chillar and captain of the
nis every second from Swiggy in Indian national football
2019, the online food delivery plat‑ team Sunil Chhetri have been cho‑
form said on Monday. In fact, sen as India's Hottest Vegetarians of
biryani is the most common first 2019 by People for the Ethical
order by new users on Swiggy, Treatment of Animals (PETA).
according to the company's fourth "Manushi and Sunil are living,
yearly 'StatEATistics' report on breathing proof that eating vegan is
India's food ordering habits. coconut ice cream', 'tiramisu ice good for both animals and our own
Biryani has topped the list of most cream' and 'kesar halwa'. health. PETA India is honoring them
ordered dish for the third year in Overall, the most loved dishes in for opting for eco and animal‑
row. 2019 were chicken biryani, masala friendly fare and for encouraging
However, the year also saw a rise dosa, paneer butter masala, chicken their fans to do the same," said Bangera. Last year, Anushka Vegetarians. PETA India selected
in demand for 'khichdi'. Orders for fried rice, mutton biryani, chicken PETA India Director of Celebrity Sharma and Kartik Aaryan were the winners based on several fac‑
khichdi on Swiggy grew 128 per dum biryani, veg fried rice, veg and Public Re lations Sachin named as PETA India's Hottest tors, including vote count.
cent this year. biryani, tandoori chicken and dal
"While our patrons love their makhani, said the report.
chicken biryanis, they prefer vege‑
tarian toppings on their pizzas.
With overall orders for healthy
options crossing 3.5 lakhs this year, Laughter is the Best Medicine
Cheese, onion, paneer, extra cheese, the latest food trend that has taken
mushroom, capsicum, corn, the nation by storm is the Ketogenic By Mahendra Shah
jalapenos and olives were among diet which includes meat, fish, poul‑
the most common toppings on pizza try and non‑starchy vegetables.
orders," Swiggy said, adding that Swiggy noticed a 306 per cent
pineapple was the least preferred increase in Keto‑specific items
Mahendra Shah
topping, and were preferred by only ordered in 2019. is an architect by
1.5 per cent of pizzas ordered. Highlighting some unusual education,
While people continue to indulge requests, the report revealed that entrepreneur by
in gulab jamun and moong dal customers have used Swiggy Stores profession, artist
halwa, India has found another to get 'gaumutra' (cow urine) from and humorist,
sweet favourite. an ayurvedic store in Gurgaon and cartoonist and
Besides 17,69,399 gulab jamun rent receipts, among other things. writer by hobby.
orders and 2,00,301 orders for Swiggy's current delivery fleet of He has been
halwa in 2019, falooda is the over 2.3 lakh active delivery part‑ recording the
newest entry to the top desserts on ners has over 1,000 women deliv‑
plight of the
Swiggy with a whopping 11,94,732 immigrant
ery partners. Sudha from Kochi was
Indians for the
orders this year. the platform's top woman delivery
past many year in
A special ice‑cream filled Falooda partner for completing over 6,838 his cartoons.
was ordered over 6,000 times in orders having joined Swiggy only Hailing from
Mumbai. Another favourite, 'choco 13 months ago, said the report. Gujarat, he lives
pie and drink' was ordered 79,242 T he findings are based on in Pittsburgh,
times in Chandigarh alone. Swiggy's order analysis during Pennsylvania.
Other popular sweet treats January 2019 to October 2019
include the usual suspects such as across over 500 cities that Swiggy
'death by chocolate', 'tender is present in.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ASTROLOGY Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 29

Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874

By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, 2648 9899
psharma@premastrologer.com; w.premastrologer.com

DECEMBER 28‑JANUARY 3, 2020

Aries: It is time you reached out to Cancer: Preparing well for a com‑ Libra: Financial help will be forth‑ Capricorn: Your ef forts will help
someone in need of your help on the petition may require extra efforts, coming for those venturing on make a mark on the academic
academic front.Opportunities to so give it your best.Choose only their own. Expect favourable devel‑ front.It is not right to covet what is
earn big bucks may soon come your way. healthy options to remain fit.Your initia‑ opments on the academic front.Fitness bug not yours, so review your actions or deci‑
Financially, you will manage to bring tive on the romantic front will keep your is likely to bite some and do their health a sions.Some retailers may face decreased
down expenses. Newlyweds are likely to chances alive w ith the one you lot of good.Getting even with someone footfalls, but it will only be a temporary
enjoy a blissful existence. admire.Take steps to refurbish your social working against your interests may bring phase.Better prospects are seen in some‑
Earning brownie points on the social front image by being more helpful and consid‑ you into a needless confrontation, so think thing that you are contemplating on the
will not be too difficult. Overcoming lazi‑ erate.Completed paperwork will help you out subtler ways to deal with the situa‑ professional front.Financial situation may
ness is important to achieve fitness, so get a loan sanctioned for your dream tion.Wait and watch policy will work won‑ warrant cutting corners, so donʼt relax on
work towards it. house. ders in a contentious situation. this account.
Taurus: Romance remains on the Leo: Keep your cool, even if things Scorpio: Whatever you are involved Aquarius: Making a positive begin‑
backburner in the coming week donʼt go your way; they are set to in may take some time, but is cer‑ ning in a matter that had been
since you donʼt show any extra improve as the wee k tain to g ive posit ive results in worrying you for long is indicated.
enthusiasm.Someone may work against progresses.Take full advantage of your future. Someone of opposite gender is like‑ A financial issue will be satisfactorily
your interests on the professional front, so contacts to achieve your objectives on the ly to make this a best week on the roman‑ solved.A transfer is on the anvil for gov‑
watch your step.A deal may swing in your academic front.You will need to get better tic front!Those wanting to go in for higher ernment servants. Be tactful in handling a
direction, if you play your cards well. acquainted with something you want to studies abroad can expect something posi‑ family situation and don't let things esca‑
Some of you may choose an exercise regi‑ take up in a professional way.A chance of tive happening soon.A delicate domestic late.Desire to multiply your money mani‑
men to come back in shape.Family life getting to know someone intimately is issue needs to be handled with care. Your fold may consume you, so expect early
remains stable and provides much happi‑ about to materialise, so make the most level‑headed approach will help smooth success. Things are likely to work for you
ness. of it. ruffled feathers. on the academic front.
Gemini: Becoming more technologi‑ Virgo: Those pursuing higher stud‑ Sagittarius: Some of you may get a Pisces: Your field of work may take
cally savvy is indicated for ies may get lucky in campus recruit‑ chance to grab an opportunity you you places and get you immense
some.Tackling a big project has its ment.Be more understanding of had been wait ing for experience. Those not pulling along
share of difficulties, but you will overcome someone not toeing your line. It is advis‑ long.Managing time for a social event may in a relationship need to decided now, any
them.Those newly introduced to acting or able to consider all the options before pose difficulty but results are certain for which way. You will find things going
public speaking will manage to overcome making an important decision at work. An those who give it a try. Financial stability smoothly in your career life. A family
stage fright.Diet and exercise is good for ailment or sickness can become a source is foreseen and will encourage you to turn memberʼs contribution will prove invalu‑
health, but maintaining it may pose prob‑ of worry if you don't take remedial meas‑ your ideas into action.Travelling makes able on the business front.Don't get negli‑
lems for some. Differences with lover need ures soon.Improvement in your financial you happy and you will find any excuse to gent towards your health. A change of
to be sorted out to strengthen the relation‑ status is indicated, as you start earning remain on the go!Good news regarding a scene will be a great idea.Financially, you
ship. better. family youngster is likely. stand to gain.

December 28, 2019 some disappointment. Long

Influenced by number 1 and the ANNUAL PREDICTIONS: FOR THOSE BORN IN THIS WEEK expected monetary benefits will
Sun. You are active, energetic, accrue. Speculation and unexpected
authoritative, sober, brilliant, sys‑ gers rather easily. Speculation and November, April, May and proposals and assignments will gains will make your financial posi‑
tematic and a talented person. You hasty decisions should be avoided September will be eventful. boost your morale and confidence. tion much better than expected.
are a simple person and do not and money transaction needs to be Property transaction will bring you But despite all goodies, minor ten‑
believe in exhibiting your wealth made very carefully. Family mem‑ December 31, 2019 good returns and will also help sions and stress will always bother
and style, but you need to check bers will be caring but behave high‑ Ruled by number 4 and the plan‑ raise money. Travel will be under‑ you especially concerning health of
your tendency to behave spend‑ ly possessive and demanding. This et Uranus. You are generous, peace taken for building important rela‑ your parents and increase in
thrift, jealous and erratic at times. will be the perfect year for matters loving, dashing, systematic, disci‑ tionships and monetary gains. household expenditure. T he
This year will see a rise in your relating to your heart and forming plined, artistic character and intro‑ Overseas journey or business trans‑ months of May, July and December
se lf‑confidence. You will be a matrimonial alliance. Overseas vert in nature. You possess a strong action for some. Wedding bells will seem to be significant.
involved in activities that will journey for some cannot be ruled memory and an ability to impress ring for some later in the year, and
secure your future and help you out. T he months of December, others with your intelligent and others will find romance to keep January 3, 2020
improve your lifestyle. New con‑ March and May will be productive. witty conversation, but you need to them going. Chronic patients need Governed by number 3 and the
tacts that you develop will bring control your tendency to be extrav‑ to take extra care for their health. planet Jupiter, you are confident,
you brilliant opportunity for busi‑ December 30, 2019 agant, reckless and moody at times. Avoid lending and borrowing ambitious, independent, dignified,
ness and growth. Strong romantic Influenced by number 3 and the A property transaction or acquir‑ money. The months of March, June religious and an optimistic person.
feelings from a member of the planet Jupiter. You are authorita‑ ing a new vehicle during this peri‑ and September will be highly Your ability to get things done with
opposite sex will bring new excite‑ tive, dynamic, philosophical, inde‑ od seems likely. Visit to a religious eventful. perfection always brings you
ment in your life. You will be in a pendent and intelligent person. place or blessings from a spiritual recognition, but you need to con‑
commanding position at work, and Your outgoing personality and will‑ person will be high on your agen‑ January 2, 2020 trol over your tendency to behave
lots will depend on your shoulders. ingness to adopt new ideas keeps da. Your outgoing nature will work Ruled by number 2 and the extravagant, dominating and fickle‑
Exercise and proper dietary habit you ahead of others, but you need to your advantage as you gain Moon. You are simple, honest, minded at times. Your next year
will be important to stay in perfect to check your tendency to behave favours and benefits from impor‑ cooperative, love peace and harmo‑ will see you improve your financial
shape. The months of Nov, January, reckless, spendthrift and selfish at tant people.New contracts will be ny. You are full of new and innova‑ position, but there will be an
May and July will be important. times. This year you will benefit highly beneficial. Frequent and tive ideas and simply a perfection‑ increase in your expenses as well.
from contacts that you have made fruitful journeys will be undertaken ist in whatever work you decide to Arrival of guests and relatives dur‑
December 29, 2019 recently. Your vast business knowl‑ bringing you desired results. The do, but you need to control your ing this period will be plenty, who
Ruled by number 2 and the edge will help you venture into months of October, November and tendency to be whimsical and jeal‑ will bring you gifts in cash and
Moon. You are highly creative, lucrative fie lds and you will March will bring prosperity. ous at times. The coming year kind. Employment opportunities
smart, simple, trustworthy, gener‑ improve your presence in the mar‑ brings you many opportunities to for some of you. Romance will be
ous and possess a sharp memory. ket. Financial gains are certain, but January 1, 2020 fulfill your dreams. A pleasure trip pleasant and will add a spice to
You have excellent leadership qual‑ unexpected losses are also fore‑ Governed by number 1, and the to an exotic destination would be your life.Put your efforts on proj‑
ities and you can easily handle any seen. Property/legal disputes will Sun, you are original, authoritative, high on your agenda. Also during ects that promise long term gains
difficult situation, but you need to prove expensive and time consum‑ dignified, determined and a sensi‑ this period you will establish new without wasting much time on
check your tendency to behave self‑ ing. Health definitely needs more tive person. You are considered an contacts and fruitful partnerships. small problems. Only selective
ish, moody and hypocrite at times. attention, especially for those suf‑ asset to your friends and your fami‑ Your spouse would be supportive investment will be rewarding and
This year life will to be a mixture fering from chronic ailments. ly members take pride in you, but to your concerns and provide you you should avoid speculation on all
of good and the not so good. You Meditation and Yoga should be you need to check your tendency to with love and af fection, but chil‑ fronts. The months of February,
will make good financial gains, but practiced for spiritual as well as overspend and dominate at times. dren might take advantage of your May, July and November will be
money will slip through your fin‑ physical gains. T he months of A year of gifts and rewards. New generous behaviour and cause highly significant.
 30 Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Life is restless for peace in the world

This sacred land of God has been series of realms. Beyond the physi‑
trampled with the burden of cal realm, there is the astral, causal,
oppression. and supracausal realms, and a pure‑
Life is not a dagger stained with ly spiritual realm, called Sach
the blood of hatred; Khand. Each realm contains greater
It is a branch filled with the flow‑ and greater light, celestial music,
ers of love and compassion. joy, and love. We ultimately merge
Life itself is restless for peace in back in the source of all conscious‑
the world. ness, love, and light. Then, we rec‑
Let its noble dream materialize. ognize that all humans and all
By Sant Rajinder Singh May the garden be illumined with forms of life are created by the
Ji Maharaj wave after wave of Light. Divine and comprise one family.
May the wealth of love grow This nondenominational meditation

M
ystic poetry and literature greater and greater and enrich practice, called Shabd Meditation,
is rich in verses addressing every heart. or meditation on the Light and
the way to a peaceful, calm These verses capture the essence Sound, can be performed by people
life. One of the greatest mystic poet‑ of what I consider the purpose of ing us one human family. Even sci‑ us through nationality, social status, of all cultures. The introductory
saints of the past century, Sant life and have been the inspiration of ence points to our ones through the or appearance tumble down as we form of meditation, called Jyoti
Darshan Singh Ji Maharaj, has writ‑ my life. These penetrating words Genome project. Scientists have realize that we are all children of Meditation can be practiced by any
ten a verse that captures the way to by Sant Darshan Singh Ji Maharaj, a found that more than 99% of the the one Creative Power. one at any place. The more time we
lead lives in which we reduce stress past master of meditation on the genes of all human beings are the Through meditation on the inner spend in meditation, the more we
and anger to produce calm and inner Light and Sound, illumine a same, with only less than 1% being Light and Sound within each of us, realize the unity within each.
peace within ourselves and for the way to achieve peace through dif ferent, accounting for dif fer‑ we can have a firsthand experience Spiritual progress is enhanced by
whole world. uncovering the Divine within. Once ences in our hair, skin, and eye of our unity. Through absorption an ethical life of non‑violence, truth‑
The verse by Sant Darshan Singh this uplifting peace permeates our color, or our size and shape. When into this Light and Sound current, fulness, humility, love for all, and
Ji says: being, it can spread to others, we realize we are all one family, we we experience consciousness of selfless service
Let this world become a temple of bathing this planet in peace. would not cause pain or suf fering higher spiritual realms. This inner As we gaze at the wonders within
love and peace. These verses describe the unity at to others. As we would not want to journey leads back to the source of through meditation, we can experi‑
Let love and Truth illumine the the heart of all creation. The poet hurt our parents or children, we this current and we experience one‑ ence the inner light, enjoy its nour‑
world, And the adversaries of peace realizes that the same Light of God would not want to hurt any other ness with the Creator. Saints and ishing peace and bliss, and radiate
awaken to its Light within us is also in all others, mak‑ human being. The walls that divide mystics have described within us a that loving luminosity to all.

Culture
Jewish festival Hanukkah ‑
H dates, traditions
anukkah is a Jewish holiday, often
referred to as the "Festival of Lights."
Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days
and nights, starting on the 25th of the Jewish plex Talmudic rules governing the placement
month of Kislev, which may fall anywhere of the menorah, the quality of the candles,
between late November and early December and the treatment of the candles and their
on the secular calendar. For eight nights, fam‑ wicks after use; these are followed by a
ilies say prayers and then light candles in an minority of families who may follow more
eight‑branched candelabra called a menorah. orthodox forms of Judaism.
Most families also serve special holiday foods, Lighting the Menorah
sing songs, play games, and give gifts includ‑ Every year it is customary to commemorate
ing Hanukah gelt (chocolate coins). the miracle of the Hanukkah oil by lighting
candles on a menorah. Each family has its
In 2019, Hanukkah will be celebrated own menorah, an eight‑branched candelabra
Sunday, December 22 through Monday, with a spot for a ninth candle in the center.
December 30. The central candle (the shamash) is lit, and
The Hanukkah story is based on historical that candle is used to light one additional can‑
events that took place in 165 BCE in dle each night until, on the eighth night, all of
Jerusalem. After the Second Temple in the candles are lit.
Jerusalem was desecrated by the Seleucid Special blessings are said or sung in
Emperor Antiochus IV and his Greco‑Syrian Hebrew before the Hanukkah candles are lit;
troops, Jewish priest Mattathias and his sons three are sung on the first day and two on
rebelled. Retaking Jerusalem and the Temple, each of the remaining days. The candles are
they lit the holy lamp (the menorah) but had allowed to burn down each night and are
only enough oil for one night. Miraculously, replaced the following day.
the lamp stayed lit for eight days until Eight Nights light Hanukkah candles and say blessings Special Foods
enough holy oil could be procured. Hanukkah is celebrated for eight nights in a each night. On the Friday of Hanukkah, more Because Hanukkah celebrates the miracle
Every community has its unique Hanukkah row; it is unlikely that any given family will observant families may also light Shabbat of the oil, it is traditional to eat fried foods
traditions, but there are some traditions that have a major family celebration for every one (sabbath) candles and say blessings after the such as latkes and sufganiyot during the
are almost universally practiced. of those nights, but they are almost certain to Hanukkah candles are lit. There are also com‑ holiday. (Souce: learnreligions.com)
TheSouthAsianTimes.info Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020
TheSouthAsianTimes.info Dec 28-Jan 3, 2020