Diaspora torchbearers of India Story: Piyush Goyal

A platform for the voice of next generation Indian Americans Year 1, Volume 13, Washington DC, Monday 16 January, 2023 Indian American is NASA’s new Chief Technologist ...Page 04 Indian Americans inch towards higher representation rates in new congress ...Page 13 Makar Sankranti... India’s version of Thanksgiving ...Page 24 *New India Abroad is a Registered trademark and not affiliated with the newspaper named India Abroad marketed in the US from 1972 to 2021. Addressing the Indian community at an event in New Jersey, USA, Indian Minister Piyush Goyal said it was a matter of pride that they had contributed through India’s rich traditions and culture that helped them in leading large corporations and contributed to economic growth of several countries. Diaspora torchbearers of India Story: Piyush Goyal SANJEEV KUMAR I ndian Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal described the Indian diaspora as the “torchbearers” of the India story while praising the community for its outstanding achievements during an event held in New Jersey, USA. Calling upon the diaspora to contribute and shape the contours of New India, Goyal said it was a matter of pride that they uphold India’s rich traditions and culture that helped them in leading large corporations and contributing to economic growth of several countries. “India is truly recognized and respected across the world due to the achievements of the Indian diaspora,” he asserted. He celebrated the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas with the Indian American community and recalled the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who started the tradition and appreciated Indian Americans for their strong bonds with India. Quoting him, Goyal said, “Success of every category of our immigrants all over the world testifies the indomitable spirit carried from the Indian soil.” Noting that over 90 out of 1078 founders of about 500 Unicorns in USA are of Indian origin, Goyal said that Indians in USA they have clearly demonstrated tremendous capacity through their work in different sectors as healthcare, hospitality, journalism, technology, management. The Minister went on to speak about India’s growth story and how the country recovered from a crippling pandemic. “India offers huge opportunities due to its large domestic consumption demand, democracy, rule of law, and transparent economy,” he asserted urging diaspora to make the country their “trusted partner.” Concluding his speech with the governments expectations from the diaspora he enumerated a few action items including engaging with the government on its interactive events, buying India made productshandlooms/ handicrafts for gifting needs/ festive occasions, presenting India as an investment destination in the States and contributing through philanthropy, knowledge transfers an innovative ideas. Image - Twitter Piyush Goyal President Droupadi Murmu delivered keynote address at the valedictory session of the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and presented the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards to the diaspora Photo Feature on Page 2

Indian Star LLC Published Weekly Copyright © 2022 Indian Star LLC Editor in Chief Dr. Sridhar Krishnaswami [email protected] Chief Executive Officer Rajeev Bhambri [email protected] Editor (Hindi) Dr. Rameshwar Dayal [email protected] Registered Address Indian Star LLC, 6215 Rockhurst Rd, Bethesda, MD 20817 USA Email [email protected] Ph. 7323476511 Website www.NewIndiaAbroad.Com Disclaimers: 1. New India Abroad is a Registered trademark and not affiliated with the newspaper named India Abroad marketed in the US from 1972 to 2021. 2. Indian Star LLC assumes no liability for claims / assumptions made in advertisements and advertorials. Views expressed by the writers are their own. A publication of 2 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 Darshan Singh Dhaliwal, one of the largest gasoline retailers in the United States, will be presented with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman 2023 by Draupadi Murmu, the President of India. He spoke to New India Abroad about starting indoor farming this year in Punjab. A commemorative postal stamp on ‘Surakshit Jayen, Prashikshit Jayen’ was released during PBD 2023 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh to underline the importance of safe, legal, orderly and skilled migration Dr. Archana Sharma (Switzerland) receives Pravasi Bharatiya Samman for her contribution in Science & Technology. “India has created a generation in last 30 years that is working abroad and they are called as young India. They are trained in world’s best laboratories, and can inject back in India,” she told New India Abroad SSSPPPEEECCCHIGHLIGHTS IIIAAALLLCCCOOOVVVEEERRRAAAGGGEEE PRAVASI BHARATIYA DIVAS More than 3,500 diaspora members from 70 countries attended the event The identity of a diaspora is very much derived from how close it is connected to its roots said Minister for External Affairs S. Jaishankar during the opening ceremony of 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2023 You are the people who will address the world’s desire to know more about India. -PM MODI

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 3 Air India increases flight frequency to Gatwick, Heathrow NRIs in ten countries can now make UPI payments SANJEEV KUMAR I n a welcome move for the diaspora, Indian residents in 10 countries abroad will be able to make UPI (Unified Payment Interface) payments through their international mobile numbers. According to the new guidelines issued by the National Payments Corporation of India (NCPI) NRIs can use their numbers to make transactions from an NRE account (a bank account opened in India in the name of an NRI) using UPI and IMPS methods. The countries whose NRIs can avail the facility are US, UK, Australia, UAE, Canada, Singapore, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Hong Kong. The decision comes after the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) permitted to transfer funds between NRE accounts and other permissible accounts as per the guidelines/ instruction issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). “We have been receiving requirement from the eco-system with regards to the Non-resident (NR) accounts and other permissible accounts having international numbers to be allowed to transact in UPI. In addition, there has been customer demand in the ecosystem to enable UPI for their NR accounts have international number and experience the seamless and instant journey of UPI,” NPCI said in its order. However, NPCI noted that these transactions will be subject to member banks allowance and ensuring compliance to AntiMoney Laundering (AML)/Combating of Financing of Terrorism (CET) checks, which will be the responsibility of remitter/beneficiary banks. HARI BALAKRISHNAN Air India, India’s leading airline and member of the Star Alliance group, announced on January 12, 2023, the beginning of 12 weekly flights to London Gatwick Airport and five extra routes to London Heathrow Airport. As the only scheduled airline to provide direct services to the UK’s second-largest airport, the airline launched a thrice-weekly service from locations including Amritsar, Ahmedabad, Goa, and Kochi to Gatwick. It also increased its frequency from Delhi to Heathrow by five times a week from 14 to 17, and Mumbai, from 12 to 14 times a week. Similar to Heathrow, London’s Gatwick offers direct access to the nation’s highway system, making it easier for travellers to go to London and South-East England by vehicle or coach. Additionally, passengers can go directly by rail from the South Terminal to Central London in less than 30 minutes. This is a part of the airline’s ongoing effort to increase its market share on international routes by putting itself on the map of world aviation. One of the main cornerstones of Vihaan AI, the revolutionary agenda the Indian airline, is the robust improvement of global operations while expanding reach. Air India increases flight frequency to London, Gatwick Image: Twitter/@CSMIA_Official US-based National India Hub launches India Chapter VIKAL SAMDARIYA The Indian diaspora has been doing commendable work to extend support to India in all possible ways. An example of this is the US-based National India Hub, which has launched its India Chapter in Delhi to advance synergy on diverse fields between India and the US. On January 12, 2023, the organization’s India Chapter was launched in the presence of Rahul Kaswan, Member of Parliament, India, Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary (Consular, Passport, Visa & Overseas Indian Affairs), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, Anu Peshawaria, an Indian-American immigration lawyer, author, activist, and philanthropist. At the launch of the India Chapter, Sayed acknowledged the work carried out by the National India Hub through its network in various countries. In his address, he shared the Indian government’s various initiatives to engage with the Indian diaspora. National India Hub is an initiative of National Council of Asian Indian Associations and NRI SEVA Foundation along with partner organisations who formed the Indian Task Force to support the Indian diaspora community in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic and addressed the challenges that many Indian-Americans faced. National India Hub in Chicago has become operational for facilitating trade, education, healthcare, technology, legal services, culture promotion and travel between India and the US. On the trade front the focus of National India Hub in India will be promotion of bilateral trade and investment, joint ventures and technology transfer. Harish Kolasani, founder – National India Hub, USA, Sunil Singh, director – National India Hub, USA, Dr. Jagat Shah, director – India Hub, Ahmedabad and Sandeep Mahajan , director – India Hub, Mumbai were also present during the event. National India Hub in India will be involved in activities such as promotion of bilateral trade and investment, joint ventures and technology transfer. The countries whose NRIs can avail the facility are US, UK, Australia, UAE, Canada, Singapore, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Hong Kong. The launch of the National India Hub India Chapter.

4 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 Another Indian American Bhavya Lal, served as the acting chief technologist prior to Charania’s appointment. Indian American is NASA’s new Chief Technologist SANJEEV KUMAR I ndian American A C Charania has been appointed as NASA’s new chief technologist. He will lead technology innovation in NASA and will serve as the principal advisor to administrator Bill Nelson on technology policy and programs at the agency’s headquarters in Washington. In his new role, Charania will also align NASA’s agencywide technology investments with mission needs across six mission directorates and oversee technology collaboration with other federal agencies, the private sector and external stakeholders. Charania, before joining NASA, served as vice president of product strategy at Reliable Robotics. Prior to that, he was employed at Blue Origin to mature its lunar permanence strategy, its lander program and multiple technology initiatives with NASA. He was also part of the Virgin Galactic (now Virgin Orbit) LauncherOne small satellite launch vehicle program and contributed in multiple management and technology roles at SpaceWorks Enterprises. Speaking about his new role, Charania said, “The rate of advancement we seek in the 21st century is dependent upon selecting and maturing a portfolio of technologies into systems to execute our missions. With this in mind, there are incredible opportunities in partnerships within and outside of NASA. I now look forward to the opportunity to work with the entire community to increase the rate of space and A C Charania. aviation progress.” Image - Nasa.gov Having over 26 years of experience in both the commercial and public sectors Dhairyawan is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Swapan Dhairyawan is Director of US Toll Road Authority BHAVANA P I ndian American Swapan Dhairyawan, has been named to the Fort Bend Toll Road Authority and the Grand Parkway Toll Road Authority Board of Directors of by Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers. “I am proud to appoint Swapan Dhairyawan to the Grand Parkway Tollway Board of Directors,” said Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers was quoted as saying in a report published by Fort Bend Independent. “He is a Certified Public Accountant and understands the importance of being a good steward of the people’s money,” he said of Dhairyawan. Having over 26 years of experience in both the commercial and public sectors, Dhairyawan is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He has received numerous community service awards for his work with non-profit organizations such as the Foundation for India Studies, the Hindus of Greater Houston, the International Hindi Association, the Indian Muslims Association for Greater Houston, the Indo-American Conservatives of Texas, and the Society of Indo-American Arts. Most recently, Dhairyawan received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the India Culture Center of Houston. He is also a member of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston. He received his Bachelor of Commerce in 1986 and Master of Commerce in 1988 both from Bombay University. Additionally, he has a professional degree in cost and management accounting. Image - Twitter /@swapandha

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 5 US Sikhs’ initiative to preserve history in Colorado SANJEEV KUMAR A Colorado-based non-profit organization has initiated a project to preserve and share the history of Sikhs settled in the US State. The group is planning to interview community members to document their stories. “The project is aimed to collect, document, and share the history of Sikhs in Colorado. By building the capacity of the Sikh community to tell and control their own stories, this project will aim to serve as a bridge for reinforcing the understanding that the Sikh community’s history is part of Colorado’s history.” Colorado Sikhs said on their website. The organization is working with the Alpine Archaeological Consultants and the Sikh American History Project are collaborating on the project being developed in association with the State Historical Fund of Colorado. Policy Director of Colorado Sikhs, Naureen Singh and other volunteers are inviting Sikhs living in Colorado to collect oral and written stories of their immigrant experience. The group plans to involve over 200 people and focus on themes around agriculture, trucking and military experience. Singh told local media that her father G B Singh, a retired colonel, who was among one of the highest ranking Sikh officers to serve duty with turban is an inspiration for the project. “My father plays really unique role in the project as he was stationed in Colorado in 1990s,” she was quoted as saying. Established on September 7, 2014, Colorado Sikhs’ mission is to promote diversity, understanding and community development through education and civic engagement to create mutually respectful relationships with residents and communities. Naureen Singh of Colorado Sikhs said the project is being run in association with the Alpine Archaeological Consultants and the Sikh American History Project. Kumar has a two decade experience at Infosys, the Indian IT giant, where he led the company’s global services organisation. “I wanted to show my family what I do for a living” says Sikh driver in UK STAFF REPORTER An Indian-origin Sikh bus driver for National Express West Midlands in the United Kingdom has become viral after a music video of him singing Punjabi songs at work was released on YouTube. Ranjit Singh, 59, who works at the West Bromwich depot, can be seen singing in Punjabi about his experience as a bus driver in England in the film, which has received thousands of views, with many people praising Singh for his excellent singing on social media platforms. Talking about what inspired him to make the video, Singh said, “I have a great passion for driving and singing, so I wanted to combine the two together. I thought there was no better way than a video to show my family back home what I do for a living.” “I have worked at National Express West Midlands for 13 years and take great pride in what I do. There’s a real team spirit and I wanted to do something that celebrated the many different communities we have at our West Bromwich depot and how we all work together as one team,” the 59-year-old added. Praising Singh’s efforts, the National Express West Midlands managing director David Bradford said, ““Our staff really are our greatest assets. They all work incredibly hard to keep our customers moving, and to see the enthusiasm that they have for their roles in the company is great. Thank you to Ranjit and the team at West Bromwich for putting such a smile on everyone’s faces.” Screengrab from the video/ YouTube Cognizant appoints Ravi Kumar as CEO and Board Member HARI BALAKRISHNAN Cognizant announced the appointment of S Ravi Kumar as its CEO and board member on January 12, 2023. Kumar will replace Brian Humphries in both positions with immediate effect. Humphries will remain with the Company as a special advisor until March 15, 2023, the Teaneck-based firm stated in a stock market filing, “to support a smooth transition.” Throughout his 20-year career at Infosys, an Indian IT giant, Kumar held a variety of leadership positions. Most recently he served as the president from January 2016 through October 2022. “I am honoured to join Cognizant, a company I have long admired for its dedicated client focus and its track record of innovation,” Kumar said in a statement. “I have watched Cognizant fundamentally transform its business, expanding its digital portfolio and capabilities, strengthening client relationships and partnerships, and meaningfully enhancing operational discipline. Cognizant is wellpositioned for growth, and I’m excited to unlock the Company’s significant potential for our employees, clients, investors, and other stakeholders,” he added. According to Cognizant, in his capacity at Infosys, Kumar oversaw the Infosys Global Services Organization, which provided services for digital transformation, consulting, technology, engineering, data & analytics, cloud and infrastructure, and enterprise package applications. Cognizant said that Stephen J. Rohleder, who has served on the company’s board since March 2022, has been chosen to serve as chair. Michael Patsalos-Fox, the previous chair, will continue to serve as an independent director on the board. As part of the company’s continuous Board renewal process, Rohleder was appointed to the Board in March 2022. In the previous three years, the Board has appointed three more independent directors. Cognizant appoints Ravi Kumar as CEO and Board Member Image: news.cognizant.com

6 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 7 Esha Patel, new trustee of Schaumberg Village MADHU BALAJI S chaumburg Village President Tom Dailly has announced the appointment of Cultural Commission member Esha Patel as the village trustee. Patel will replace former village trustee Frank Kozak, who passed away, and will hold office until May 2025. Patel’s appointment was unanimously approved by Village Board members on the Jan. 10, according to a news release. “I am honored to be considered by Mayor Dailly and the Board to fill the role of village trustee,” Patel said. “I have enjoyed my time serving others, whether it be through my professional career or through various other organizations. I look at this as an opportunity for me to contribute new ideas while also preserving the tradition of thoughtful leadership that has made Schaumburg such a great place to live, work, and visit,” she added. “Esha is a hard-working business owner who I think will bring a high level of dedication and professionalism to serving the Schaumburg community. I believe her passion to help others makes her a welcome addition to our Village Board,” Dailly said. The Schaumburg resident was born in Gujarat and came to the US in 1996. She completed her bachelor’s degree at India’s Sardar Patel University is a fulltime professional State Farm Insurance agent. Patel has served in the village’s Cultural Commission for 1.5 years. As per the release, she is also a member of the Glendale Heights Chamber of Commerce and the State Farm multicultural team and advisory board. Patel hails from the Indian State of Gujarat and came to the United States in 1996. She has been a resident of the village since 2008. Esha Patel is sworn in as Schaumburg village’s new trustee. Image: Twitter/ Village of Schaumburg Juned Qazi re-elected as Marlboro Township Council President SANJEEV KUMAR I ndian American businessman Juned Qazi has been re-elected as the president of the Marlboro Township Council, New Jersey in US. The decision was taken in the reorganization meeting of the governing body that manages the Republican majority council on Jan 5, 2023. Qazi was first elected as the council chief in January 2022, in his second term he will continue to oversee proceedings of the council for another year. Reacting to his re-election, Qazi thanked Council members for their support and belief in him and assured them that he will try to right things like he did in 2022. Founder and president of a construction company, NYCTech Construction Corporation, Qazi is one of the three Republicans who ended the decade long reign of Democrats in 2021. Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, Qazi attended St. Francis High School in Bhopal. He had previously served as the president of the Indian National Overseas Congress in 2014 and had even dabbled in politics in India. Qazi, who was granted US citizenship two years back, has been helping the diaspora community for over a decade, making efforts to bring people together. According to him currently around 12 percent of the Township’s population is of Asian origin. Qazi is one of the three Republicans who ended decade long reign of Democrats in 2021. Image - Facebook/@Juned Qazi Usha Reddi appointed Senator for US state of Kansas BHAVANA P Usha Reddi, an IndianAmerican former city commissioner, was sworn in as a Senator for the US state of Kansas, replacing outgoing Manhattan Senator Tom Hawk, who announced his retirement last month. “I was sworn in this afternoon as State Senator for District 22. It was great to have my family join me today. I look forward to representing you,” Reddi tweeted after taking oath on Jan. 12. Reddi will complete the remainder of Senator Hawk’s term, which expires in 2025. “Thank you, Senator Tom Hawk for your dedicated service. You lead with sincere love for community and built strong relationships along the way. Enjoy your welldeserved retirement,” Reddi wrote in a tweet. Democratic precinct leaders in the counties of Riley, Geary, and Clay appointed Reddi, who has been a member of the Manhattan City Commission since 2013. Reddi was first elected to the Manhattan City Commission for a four-year term in April 2013 and re-elected in 2017 and 2021. She served as Mayor in 2016-2017 and in 2020. Her family moved to the United States from India when she was eight years old. Along with her two brothers, she was largely raised in Columbus, Ohio. In 2019, the democrat made headlines when she spoke openly of the sexual abuse she faced from her father. He was sentenced to ten years in prison in the same year. Usha has spent more than 28 years residing in Manhattan. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Ohio State University, an Elementary Education Bachelor of Science from Kansas State University, and an Educational Leadership Master of Science from Kansas State University. Swearing of Senator Usha Reddi image - Twitter /@ kssenatedems

8 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 Shilpa joined Avestar Capitals in 2019 and is a board member of the Indian American nonprofit Pratham USA Strengthening Indo-US ties essential in volatile geopolitical environment: USIBC Chief SANJEEV KUMAR US-India Business Council president and former ambassador Atul Keshap said strengthening US-India trade ties is the need of the hour as the business community is facing a volatile geopolitical environment and a potentially challenging year for growth. Commenting on the US-India Trade Policy Forum in Washington DC, Keshap said US businesses are increasingly looking to India as a growing consumer market, critical talent pool and high-trust geography for resilient and secure supply chains. “The business community is hoping that both governments approach the US-India Trade Policy Forum with a sense of vision, urgency, and ambition. To sustain progress on trade, both governments can usefully work together to make steady and incremental progress that sends signals of confidence, convergence, and trust to both our business communities,” he said. Keshap stressed on implementing already negotiated agreements that will also bolster investors’ confidence and said waiting for all-ornothing comprehensive agreements will only slow the shared goal of achieving a US $500 billion trade relationship. “An enabling trade environment will help our societies sharpen their edge in critical and emerging technologies and retain competitiveness on the world stage. As both governments negotiate difficult and intricate trade provisions, we are encouraged by their awareness that greater commercial engagement between the world’s two largest democracies is vital if free societies are to shape the future of global prosperity,” he added. The 13th Trade Policy Forum (TPF) ministerial talks between Union minister Piyush Goyal and US trade representative Katherine Tai concluded on January 11, 2023 in Washington D.C. During the ministerial meeting between India and US a working group on “Resilient Trade” was launched to deepen bilateral dialogue on a range of issues that can enhance the trade relationship. “Both Ministers looked forward to working together to strengthen resilience in global supply chains, especially in the critical sectors that underpin the two economies and to look forward to work on these issues in coordination and cooperation with our trusted partners through the new working group,” a statement released after the meeting noted. During the ministerial meeting between India and US a working group on “Resilient Trade” was launched to deepen bilateral dialogue on a range of issues that can enhance the trade relationship. Image - Linkedin/@Atul Keshap Shilpa Konduri Mullan appointed President of Avestar Capital MADHU BALAJI I ndian-American Shilpa Konduri Mullan has been appointed as the president of global wealth management advisory firm Avestar Capital, a subsidary of Atash Holdings. The appointment comes at a time when the firm is transitioning from a start-up phase to a growth phase with a long-term plan, a news release said. The company has acknowledged Shilpa’s two decades of experience in sales and client services. In her new role as president, Shilpa will contribute to the key decisions related to business strategy, compliance and corporate management. She will also be involved in initiatives to enhance the company’s partnership associations with technology companies. Xerxes Mullan, founder and chairman of Atash Holdings and a member of the board, emphasized that the vision is to cater to the growing wealth in the South Asian diaspora. “I have always believed that a genderdiverse team adds more value to any industry,” the founder said. “As an Indian-American woman herself with experience in the crossborder business, Shilpa ticks all the right boxes to meet our goals. Since joining Avestar Capital in 2019, Shilpa has enhanced client experience and created the company’s best practices by streamlining the onboarding, servicing, and investment process for organic growth,” Xerxes added. Image: LinkedIn Profile Shilpa Konduri Mullan

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 9 Singh said he was glad that over 100 Sikh American soldiers no longer have to make the difficult choice between their duty and religion. Indo-Canadian becomes 10th Premier of Yukon Province STAFF REPORTER Ranj Pillai, a Canadian of Indian origin, is all set to become 10th Premier of the country’s Yukon Province. His selection has been confirmed by Yukon Liberal Party at their executive meeting that was held on Jan 8, 2023. After the announcement, Pillai, who traces his origins to Kerala, said, “I am truly honoured to have this opportunity to be the new party leader. Throughout my upbringing, I was taught the value of public service and have spent the majority of my life serving people. I am committed to working hard, acting strategically, seeking common ground, and fiercely defending the interests of the Yukon.” Elected as Porter Creek South MLA in 2016, Pillai has served in several government positions including Deputy Premier, and Minister of Economic Development, Energy, Mines and Resources, Tourism and Culture as well as Yukon’s Housing Corporation, Energy and Development Corporation. He was also appointed Whitehorse City Councillor and took on various roles with First Nations Development Corporations. Pillai will replace Ranj Pillai will replace Sandy Silver, current Premier and Member of the Legislative Assembly for the Klondike. Confirming his election, Silver said, “The Yukon Liberal Party is excited to confirm Ranj Pillai as its new leader. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position. He has accomplished so much as a minister in this government and will carry that energy into his role as the Yukon’s next Premier.” Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed his appointment and congratulated Pillai on being elected as the next party leader and Premier of Yukon province. “I look forward to working with incoming Premier Pillai to continue to build healthy and resilient communities in the Yukon and a better future for all Canadians. Together, we will work to advance key priorities for people in the territory and across the country. This includes making life more affordable, building an economy that works for everyone in the Yukon, moving forward on the shared path of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, taking ambitious action in the fight against climate change, expanding access to child care for Yukon families,” the Prime Minister said. Newly elected Premier of Yukon, Ranj Pillai. Image- Twitter @RanjPillai1 “It’s remarkable that this change happened,”… veteran Sikh American soldier on having to shave beard to serve in Army SANJEEV KUMAR Major Simratpal Singh. Image- US Army I ndian-American Sikh Major Simratpal Singh, who made a tough choice in his younger days to shave off his beard in order to get admitted to US Military Academy at West point in New York State, describes the recent acceptance of Sikh religious sentiments by the US armed forces as a “remarkable change.” Recollecting the feeling of choosing duty over religion in 2006, the Punjabborn soldier said in an interview with the US Army, “I couldn’t look in the mirror for the first two weeks at the academy. I felt like the very values that would make me a good Soldier, are the ones I had violated by giving up on my faith.” According to Singh’s father, who immigrated to the States in 1995 the best way of changing a system was by being a part of it. Therefore, in the initial years Singh focused on doing his duty to the best of his ability. “Maybe down the road, I can figure out how to get back to my roots. How to have my beard and turban and practice my faith,” Singh said. After being discharged from West Point, Singh got the chance he was looking for. He was invited to attend an event in the Pentagon that was sponsored by the Sikh Coalition, a Sikh-American advocacy group that defends Sikh civil rights. “I don’t know how it all worked out this way. There were three Sikh Soldiers before me that were granted a one-time exemption. They were at this event. I was talking to some lawyers at that event and they said they could help me,” he said. For Singh, the event proved as a catalyst that eventually led to him getting a religious accommodation, one that received national media attention and paved the way for other Sikhs in the military. In January 2017, the US Army issued new regulations stating that Sikh Soldiers will not be forced to give up their religious turbans, hair, or beards throughout their military career. “I know close to 100 Sikhs in the military that didn’t have to make the miserable choice that I had to make. I worked with two young Sikh men in 2017 who were applying to West Point, they were given the approval. Upon their graduation, I was an instructor there and was able to administer the commissioning oath in 2021 as they finished their time at West Point,” said the proud Sikh. Since 2017, Singh has been engaged in advocacy with the Sikh Coalition and other partners to create policy changes in the Air Force, Navy and most recently the Marine Corps. Singh appeared before US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia to grant a preliminary injunction to allow two Sikhs to go through Marine Corps boot camp with their Sikh articles of faith. In his military career, Singh has completed Ranger School, received a Bronze Star medal for clearing IEDs in Afghanistan and received bachelor’s and master’s degree in engineering as well as in Master of Business Administration. He is currently attending the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth. Indian American conferred with Infosys Prize 2022 STAFF REPORTER An Indian American professor was conferred with the Infosys Prize 2022 in social sciences for research on governance, accountability, diverse methodologies and inclusive democratic economies. Currently a Henry J Heinz II Professor of Economics and director of the economic growth centre at Yale University, Rohini Pande was awarded the Infosys Prize 2022 in Social Sciences for her research on governance and accountability, women’s empowerment, the role of credit in the lives of the poor and environment, the company statement noted. “Her empirical findings based on diverse methodologies, offer major promise and potential for policy design in emerging economies, including India. Prof Pande’s work on inclusive democratic institutions has tremendous implications in a world where critical discussions and debates are ongoing in the face of the climate emergency and related issues of social justice,” the website statement reads. “Let me start by thanking my parents as I grow older, I realize the ultimate gift they gave me was the freedom to disappear into the field from home, for very long periods of time,” Pande said in her acceptance speech. Image - Twitter/@Infosysprize

10 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 MSI CEO Manu Shah retires after 47 years STAFF REPORTER I ndian American founder and CEO of Californiabased M S International (MSI), Inc., a leading supplier of flooring, countertop, wall tile, and hardscaping products in North America, has announced his retirement after 47 years. Born in India as the last of nine children, Manu emigrated to the United States at the age of 22, to pursue the American dream. He received a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and a few years later founded MSI with his wife, Rika in the basement of their home in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Importing granite, marbles and other items from India , the company grew to importing material for 18 countries. In the 1980s MSI supplied the black granite used for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington. Under Shah’s leadership, the company made US$2.8 billion in revenue, supported the lives and livelihoods of over 3,000 worldwide employees, and had over 45 showrooms and distribution centers in greater North America. Reflecting on his career, Shah said, “Success is a never-ending journey, it’s like climbing a mountain. When you reach the top of the summit and look below, you forget all the pain it took you to reach the top. You see the beautiful surroundings below and look forward to the other mountains yet to climb… You have to keep climbing, sometimes fast [and] occasionally slow, and start afresh every day,” “Thank you, Team MSI for continuing our mission of Making Dream Surfaces Attainable. I look forward to this company growing forever,” he added. His two sons Raj and Rup Shah have been promoted to co-CEO’s while Manu retains the title of CEO Emeritus. Manu Shah with his wife. Image - Twitter/@msisurfaces STAFF REPORTER Athulya, a top provider of senior care services in India, has secured US$ 9.3 million in finance from North Haven India Infrastructure Partners, a firm managed by Morgan Stanley India Infrastructure. Established in 2016, Athulya provides assisted living, transition care, and home healthcare to meet the requirements of dependent seniors over 60. Palliative care services will also be introduced soon. The company’s founders, Dr. Karthik Narayan, Srinivasan G, and J. Krishna Kavya, have experience working with prestigious healthcare organizations in both India and the US and specialise in geriatric care. The firm currently oversees more than 400 assisted living beds across numerous facilities in Chennai and Bangalore, and to date, has provided services to more than 20,000 seniors. With the funds, it plans to expand its services throughout south India over the next two years, adding over 2500 beds and catering to over 50,000 seniors. According to the company’s data, India has one of the world’s fastestgrowing youth demographics, with a median age of 28.4. Over the following three decades, the elderly population is predicted to more than double. In India, a country where joint families were the norm for decades, the need for outsourced senior care is rising due to migration and the growing nuclearization of families. The country reportedly has a demand for about 3,00,000 senior living units, significantly more than the country’s existing supply of 20,000 units. Athulya has positioned itself to benefit from this significant unmet need as a market pioneer, a news release noted. Athulya raises US$9.3 Mn for senior care from Morgan Stanley Image- Athulya Assisted Living Over 150 business professionals and venture investors will be in attendance at the Program’s Technology Day FalconX helps Indian entrepreneurs grow their businesses in Silicon Valley HARI BALAKRISHNAN F alconX, a US-based company, announced the “Global Immersion Program Cohort 2”, an initiative that aims to assist Indian entrepreneurs in growing and scaling their businesses in the US with the aid of sector experts and corporate partners in Silicon Valley. The programme includes a Go to Market Strategy MasterClass, sales, pricing, and fundraising workshops, as well as one-on-one mentorship from more than 40 business experts. The Program’s Technology Day offers the selected entrepreneurs the chance to present themselves to an audience of more than 150 business professionals and venture capitalists. With a focus on international earlystage B2B startups in the AI/ML, AR/VR, cleantech, healthtech, and cloud infrastructure sectors, FalconX announced the opening of its first venture fund in 2023. The fund will make investments in startups mentored by FalconX Gateway, particularly those finishing its highly recognised Global Immersion Program, to help them scale up and grow. Murali Chirala and Vivek Vipul will serve as general partners and administer the initial US$20 million fund. Commenting on the initiative, B.V. Jagadeesh co-founder of FalconX and managing partner of Kaaj VenturesFalconX said, “Entrepreneurship will play a crucial role in propelling India to the top of the global economic rankings by 2047. Innovation and technology will be critical to achieving this goal, and FalconX will play a vital role in shaping their success.” Murali Chirala, CEO of FalconX, added, “India is the single most promising geography, globally for technological innovation moving forward”. With a group of seasoned tech entrepreneurs and angel investors in charge, FalconX has become known as a reputable accelerator for tech firms. The founders of the company are a group of Indian Americans, BV Jagadeesh, Murali Chirala, Raju Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Pradeep Aswani, Praveen Akkiraju, Krishna Yarlagadda, Anurag Jain, Raju Indukuri, and JP Vejendla, who significantly increase the chances of success for the startups they invest in by offering mentorship and support. T-Hub and FalconX announce launch of the 2nd Cohort of the Global Immersion Program Image: Twitter/@indianweb2

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 11 The IndianAmerican teenagers will receive $2000 each, much as other players in their league, and the schools will receive $2000 for each student enrolled. Patel’s research focuses on developing next-generation ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) that can selectively remove certain ions from aqueous solutions BHAVANA P The American Membrane Technology Association(AMTA) and the US Bureau of Reclamation have awarded an Indian American student, a fellowship in recognition of his creative work in the field of advanced treatment of alternate water sources. Harsh Patel, a PhD student in chemical engineering and Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Michigan, was one of the four recipients of the US$11750 fellowship, AMTA announced. “I am extremely pleased to have received this honour,” Patel said, “Especially knowing that successful work in this area will have direct implications on global problems like water scarcity as well as technologies needed to implement the research on a larger scale.” In order to address the increasing water and energy demands, Patel’s research focuses on developing next-generation ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) that can selectively remove certain ions from aqueous solutions like saltwater, groundwater and brine. The creation of low-cost IEMs with controlled water content and charge density over wide ranges is a key goal of Patel’s research. By investigating molecular-level phenomena that have an impact on the competitive ion transport in IEMs, he hopes to open up new possibilities for turning ion selectivity. Patel graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2021. He is currently a member of Michigan’s Kamcev Lab, which aims to create the next generation of polymeric materials for use in energy production and storage as well as water treatment. According to the University, Patel plans to deliver his results via a podium talk or poster at the 2023 Membrane Technology Conference and Exposition that will be held in Knoxville during February. Indian-origin student receives fellowship for research in water treatment The funds will be used to bridge gaps between India’s two famous dance forms, Odissi and Bharatanatyam. US grant to bridge gaps in two Indian dance forms SANJEEV KUMAR Kaustavi Sarkar, an Indian-American assistant professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, has won a US$10,000 grant from National Endowment to bridge gaps between India’s two famous dance forms, Odissi and Bharatanatyam. Sarkar will work on the project Shilpa Natanam: Creating New Vocabulary for Indian Dance in association with Maya Kulkarni, a New York-based choreographer. Kulkarni has devised Shilpa Natanam (mobilizing visual art), a creative process to decode the expressive dancing of South Asia by drawing inspiration from painting, sculpture, literature, and aesthetics to turn them into text forms. Sarkar and Kulkarni will work on the Shilpa Natanam project to integrate elements of two distinct dance Indian forms, Odissi from Eastern India and Bharatnatyam from South India. The duo will create new choreographic language by combining elements of two dance forms to engage audiences to ‘consider the premise and context of intercultural artistic creation towards a broader discourse on cultural difference’. According to the University of North Carolina, Kulkarni will travel to Charlotte for two 10-day residencies during the spring and fall 2023 semesters. During these residencies, she will host community and University-based masterclasses, performances, public discussions, and symposia. The second part of the project is to create an evening-length performance consisting of four pieces: two solos and two ensembles. Performances will take place across the US and India in the summer of 2024, the University website says. Sarkar, an Odissi dancer and choreographer, had first met Kulkarni, a Bharatnatyam dancer/choreographer in 2020 over Zoom while seeking feedback for a project she was working on with another choreographer, Rohini Dandavate. Kaustavi Sarkar, assistant professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Image - UNC Charlotte 50 Indian American teenagers as semi finalists in Regeneron Science Talent Search 2023 STAFF REPORTER The list of 300 semifinalists of the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2023, in the US includes a group of 50 Indian-American teenagers. For senior high school students, the Search is the oldest and most distinguished science and math competition in the country. Tradition dictates that out of 1949 candidates from 627 high schools in America and four other countries, 300 scholars are chosen. The Indian-American teenagers will receive US$2000 each, much as other players in their league, and the schools will receive US$2000 for each student enrolled. The teenagers were chosen for their exceptional research, leadership abilities, community service, academic excellence, originality, scientific questionasking, and potential as STEM leaders, as demonstrated by their independent and original projects. Out of 300 applicants, 40 will be selected as finalists on January 24. From March 9 to 15, they will compete in Washington, DC, for a chance to win one of more than US$1.8 million in prizes. Image - twitter /@Regeneron

Politician Ratna Omidvar “I am eternally proud of my Indian heritage but also being Canadian. Canada has given me its protection and its opportunities, and in return, I am committed to making it a better place so that it continues to be a land of protection and opportunity for future Canadians.” Diaspora Talks Business executive Anant Bhalla “I am proud of my Indian roots and see many of the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi like seeking the truth, compassion for others and peaceful challenge of the status quo as all being relevant to the success of any meritocracy based organization that evolves in ever uncertain times to overcome obstacles to dominate its space.” Actress Pallavi Sharda “When you live abroad, you are more in touch with your roots.The Indian community is close-knit, your functions revolve around the same set of people and you have exposure to different Indian cultures.In Australia, I was the heralding Indian woman carrying my Indian culture everywhere.” EDITORIAL There cannot be two ways of looking at the recently concluded 17th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas—a resounding success that went beyond atmospherics. It is not just a matter of hundreds of people of Indian origin travelling across oceans to hear how well they have kept the flag flying high in their adopted lands; nor was it just an occasion for a group of highly distinguished persons collecting their richly deserved Pravasi awards from the President of India. It had all to do with once again cherishing the richness of India and the resilience of its people in the face of all odds stacked against them in the last two years by way of a deadly scrouge called Coronavirus. It does not really matter if there are 17 million Indian Diaspora or 33 million persons of Indian origin living abroad. Numbers do not really matter for cutting across continents people from India have indeed made a mark in almost any and every field. Forget the odd thief and scamster; for the most part the Indian diaspora has done exceedingly well even to the point of being jealous of. And this includes the fields of academics, economics, business, commerce and even politics. For instance people of Indian origin have made stunning forays into the United States Congress and State legislatures; and some 130 Indian Americans are said to be senior administration officials in the Biden administration. But all this is not to forget the many, many more who have either made a mark or continue to do so in leadership roles in the Asia Pacific and nations dotting the Indian Ocean. The Indian Diaspora, as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pointed out are the Brand Ambassadors and play a critical role as the country increases its profile in the international system; and New Delhi is on an upward trajectory globally whether it gets a seat or not at the United Nations Security Council table as a Permanent Member. The longer New Delhi is denied its rightful place, the more anachronistic the world body gets, a fact that is well known and appreciated in the diaspora. But the point that the Prime Minister and other notable speakers were putting across is not merely India’s role in the comity of nations but in the expectations of others of the country to be the bridge between the developed and developing worlds. Whether it is in the realm of education, health care or investments, just to mention a few, the Diaspora are eager to do their parts. The raft of understandings that have been reached at Indore at different levels is an indication of the things to come and undoubtedly a healthy sign of the changed perception of yester years. Still there is a long distance to be travelled and it is indeed a two way listening process—the Government of India should hear legitimate concerns and expectations and the Diaspora also understand the limitations of what can be done. But the tone and tenor of the Indore Summit has made one thing clear: in the march forward there is no conflict of interest. CELEBRATING THE INDIAN DIASPORA Narendra Modi with the Indian diaspora at the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2023 The Indian Diaspora, as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pointed out are the Brand Ambassadors and play a critical role as the country increases its profile in the international system She enjoys writing psychological thrillers and exploring the displacement that Indians face when they are taken away from their home country and placed in another country. 12 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 ANJALI MANGAL I ndian author Trisha Sakhlecha is all set to assume the post of director at The Tagore Center in Berlin, a cultural wing of the Indian embassy in Germany. With her third book to be published later this year, she is busy with editing the story, that revolves around an Indian family which is on holiday, but ends up caught in a murder mystery. Born in Delhi, Saklecha currently lives in London. She enjoys writing psychological thrillers and exploring the displacement that Indians face when they are taken away from their home country and placed in another country. “It creates a unique sort of situation in your head. You feel like you belong to one place or the other. It makes it a very interesting psychology,” she reveals in a conversation with New India Abroad. Another reason that motivates her to write psychological thrillers is her curiosity towards understanding what makes people do bad things. “I love exploring this idea and understanding it in depth before writing about it,” she said. Saklecha’s first book Your Truth or Mine revolved around a dysfunctional marriage and a missing woman. For this, she met detectives, defense lawyers and even went to different prison cells. “I wanted to create that authenticity in my writing, understand how they operate and what their body language is like,” Saklecha, who is the granddaughter of Madhya Pradesh’s former chief minister Virendra Kumar Sakhlecha shares. Her second book Can You See Me Now was set against the backdrop of Indian politics. She believes that the seed of fiction always comes from real life. “If it didn’t, it would not have been believed by the readers. However, it cannot be entirely based on real life. An author has to bring imagination to it,” she explained. The author’s Identity of being a part of the diaspora is reflected in her books. She feels that misperception is a major challenge any diaspora faces. “When you come to India, people say you don’t understand what life in India is all about, and that’s absolutely not true because I have spent my childhood here and I keep traveling to my own country.” On the other hand, people from abroad, particularly in Europe, have certain mindsets. “It is about who we are, what we represent, what our limits are, what we can do; it comes from a lot of stereotyping and history of the parents that moved to London or other places. It might reflect India that existed 70 years ago, but it doesn’t reflect the real India today,” points out Saklecha, who has been living in London for 15 years. When asked about her favorite author, she said that no one else can compete with the legendary Indian author Rabindra Nath Tagore. “I seek a lot of inspiration from his works,” she concludes. Exploring the aftermath of displacement

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 13 INDIAN AMERICANS inch toward higher representation rates in new congress SUNITA SOHRABJI I n 2013, Rep. Ami Bera, D-California, was the sole Indian American in the House, representing portions of Sacramento; the Indian American community also held the physician politician to the tacit agreement that he would represent the 4 million plus diaspora. A decade later, Bera no longer bears the sole responsibility for that Herculean task: the four Indian American incumbents in the House will be joined by newly-elected Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Michigan. The 118th Congress includes the most Indian American members of Congress in U.S. history. The community continues to move towards higher representation per capita, based on population-to-representative ratios. According to research conducted by New India Abroad, the 535 members of Congress collectively represent a population of more than 334 million: population-to-representative ratio thus equals roughly 1 Congress member for every 768, 353 people. Indian Americans have a lower populationto-representative ratio than the overall population: five Congress members share the responsibility of representing the interests of 4.5 million Indian Americans, a populationto-representative ratio of 900,000. Asian Americans on the whole have a much lower-than average rate of representation: 16 House members and 2 Senators represent the interests of almost 21 million people, a population-to-representative ratio of 1.14 million. AAPIs are the fastest-growing population in the US. By contrast, Black Americans have the highest representation rates in Congress of any ethnicity. 56 members of the House and 11 members of the Senate represent the interests of 41.6 million African Americans, a population-to representative ratio of roughly 621,000. The 62.5 million Latino population in the U.S. boasts 43 members in the House and 4 in the Senate, but has the lowest rate of representation: 1 Latino member of Cogress for every 1.3 million people. New India Abroad rounded up all figures for its ratio tallies. Population information is based on data from several sources, including the 2020 US Census. Several organizations have sprung up over the past few years to engage and inform Asian Americans in the electoral process and to support their bids for office. Key among them is the Indian American Impact Fund, which was founded in 2016 by community leader Deepak Raj and former Kansas State Representative Raj Goyle. In 2022, the Fund supported 36 Indian Americans running for office. Indian Americans boast one of the highest rates of voter turnout: more than 89 percent, according to the research organization AAPI Data. The five Indian Americans in the House were sworn in Jan. 7, after a protracted battle over House Republican leadership. Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-California, finally won his bid for House Speaker, after an unprecedented 15 rounds of votes. All five of the aptly-named “Samosa Caucus” released a joint statement Jan. 11, celebrating the milestone of achieving the highest-ever Indian American representation in Congress. “When I first took office in 2013, I was the only Indian American Member of Congress and the third ever in history. Since that day, I have been committed to ensuring we grow our representation in Congress,” said Bera. “As we enter the most diverse Congress ever, I am reminded how much representation matters, for every community and culture across our country,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Washington, the first Indian American woman in Congress. “Serving in Congress is a distinct honor, not only because I am able to deliver for my constituents, but because I am able to show other South Asians that if I can make it into the halls of Congress, so can they,” she said. Rep. Ro Khanna, D-California, said: “Representation is crucial to serving Indian American communities and working to strengthen America’s defense and strategic partnership with India.” “As the Indian-American community remains one of our nation’s fastest growing, I am excited to see our representation expanding in Congress as well,” said Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Illinois, adding that highskilled immigration reform and strengthening the partnership between the U.S. and India are top priorities on his agenda. Thanedar gave nod to his own beginnings. “The American dream is alive when an immigrant from India can come to this country, earn a degree, become a citizen, start a business, and be elected by the people to represent them in the Michigan State House and the United States House of Representatives.” The five Indian American members of the House. From left to right: Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), and Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08).

14 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 An American Tamil Fund, which will be used to invest in startups was unveiled at the event by investors from the Tamil Nadu Diaspora in the U.S. Stalin launches investment portal for Tamil diaspora BHAVANA P Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched the Global Tamil Angels platform (www.tamilangels. fund), which would allow investors from the Global Tamil Diaspora to invest in the State’s start-ups on January. 9, 2023. The Chief Minister launched the platform at the “Global Startup Investors Summit,” which was co-hosted by the Tamil Nadu Startup and Innovation Mission (TANSIM) and the FeTNA International Tamil Entrepreneur Network in Chennai. In addition to linking Tamil Nadu-based startups with international Tamil angel investors, the platform would provide legal assistance for investors and aid in bringing items to international markets. Stalin highlighted several programmes implemented by his administration, including the US$1 billion Green Climate Fund. He praised the project as the first of its kind in the nation and guaranteed the investors of his full support. An American Tamil Fund, which will be used to invest in start-ups was unveiled at the event by investors from the Tamil Nadu Diaspora in the U.S. The investors conveyed to MSME Minister T.M. Anbarasan their intention to invest US$2 million (about Rs. 16.5 crores) by December 2023. Also present on the occasion were T. Mano Thangaraj, Minister of Information Technology, Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, Minister of Finance, Arun Roy, Secretary for MSME, Bala Swaminathan, President of FeTNA, and Sivarajah Ranathan, Mission Director and CEO of StartupTN. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin addressing the Global Tamil startup Investors summit, . Image - Twitter /@MkStalin

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 15 Texas man arrested for fatally stabbing son before attempting suicide SUNITA SOHRABJI AMcKinney, Texas engineer has been charged with capital murder for allegedly fatally stabbing his 9-year-old son before attempting to kill himself. Ponnazhakan Subramanian, 39, remains hospitalized with multiple stab wounds. McKinney, Texas police say they are actively investigating the case. A former classmate and hostel mate of the accused man said he is in disbelief that his friend could have committed such a horrific deed. McKinney, Texas Officer Shannon Seabrook said in a video statement Jan. 5 that police were called to the scene by a woman who said her neighbor had arrived home to find her son unconscious and profusely bleeding. McKinney police forced their way in to the home and found the boy in the garage with multiple stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. They also found Subramanian stabbing himself with a knife. The accused killer was arrested, and then taken to a local hospital. Police have not yet disclosed his condition. Subramanian was arraigned the following day and charged with capital murder of a person under 10 years of age. He is being held on $1 million bail. According to his record in the Collin County, Texas Sheriff ’s Department inmate locator, Subramanian had not been booked into jail as of Jan. 9 evening. Seabrook said: “There is no ongoing threat to the public, as we believe the incident was of a domestic nature. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.” “Information is limited at this time, due to this being an active investigation,” she said, noting that information will be released as the investigation continues. Karthik Rangarajan, a former classmate and hostel mate at the Vellore Institute of Technology in Tamil Nadu, said in a social media post: “If I have to name the most loving, caring, charming, never-hadany-enemies type people from my batch of friends in college, it would be Ponna. All our batch mates will vouch for that. He is a very nice person for what we know for 22-23 years now.” “Something has gone very wrong but anyone we speak with, including myself, still don’t believe that Ponna would have done something of this magnitude.” “He has been the sweetest father to the child, a second mother to the boy, caring for him day and night and something should have gone terribly wrong with himself to get involved in such an act,” said Rangarajan, Technical Project Manager at the Maryland Department of Human Services. He identified Subramanian’s wife as Sasi. Members of the Dallas Fort Worth Tamil Sangam have engaged with Subramanian’s family. Richard Bell photo via Unsplash The accused killer is being held on bail of $1 million. He has not yet been booked into jail, and remains hospitalized with self-inflicted stab wounds from a knife. BAPS calls for peace after attack on Melbourne Temple SANJEEV KUMAR The leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Temple group of temples, Mahant Swami Maharaj appealed for peace and unity after vandalism and affixing of anti-India graffiti took place at its Melbourne temple. According to a report published by The Australia Today, Mill Park’s prominent Swaminarayan Temple was defaced with anti-India graffiti ‘Hindustan Murdabad’ meaning down with India on January 12, 2023. “We are deeply saddened by the anti-India graffiti at the gates of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Mill Park, Melbourne, Australia by anti-social elements. The BAPS temple in Mill Park, like all temples of BAPS worldwide, is an abode of peace, harmony, equality, selfless service, and universal Hindu values,” the organization said in its appeal to the Melbourne community. BAPS also expressed gratitude to the Australian authorities including the governments of Australia and India as well as local community organizations, for their support and cooperation. “BAPS Mandirs across Australia are symbols of a thriving multicultural society which nurture Australian values of respect, mate-ship and tolerance. Let us all join in worldwide prayers, in private and at home, that God blesses and guides us all to continue to do good and think good of all,” it added. Image- Swaminarayan Sanstha/@BAPS.org

The theme for the NRI council conference was “Global Dialogue with Best NRI Minds in Leadership.” 16 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 Global Indian organization Asia chapter launched at NRI council conference in Indore BHAVANA P I n order to commemorate the 17th “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas” convention, which was attended by notable diaspora from all over the world, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO), and India Africa Trade Council (IATC) collaborated to host the NRI Council Conference and Awards on Jan. 10. Inaugurating the conference, Minister of state for external affairs and culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, also launched the Global India Organization, Asia Chapter. “Had a lively interaction with our vibrant Indian diaspora and discussed the numerous initiatives undertaken by the Modi Govt. for our diaspora.” she said. The theme for the NRI council conference was “Global Dialogue with Best NRI Minds in Leadership”. Minister of state for external affairs and culture, Meenakshi, inaugurating the GIO Asia chapter. “Glad to present for the MOU signing with the Global Indian Organization (GIO)” tweeted Asif Iqbal, president of the Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO) and Indian Africa Trade Council. Asif Iqbal, president of the Indian Economic Trade organization. GIO is a secular, non-partisan, nonsectarian, international organisation that is not for profit. It works to strengthen ties between NRIs, OCIs, and citizens of other nations by giving them a common forum to coordinate efforts in the fields of culture, education, science, social affairs, economics, and community affairs. The organization enhances interactions and liaise the Indian Diaspora with host country Governments, Indian Government and international Organisations. Meenakshi Lekhi (centre) inaugurating the global indian organization Asia chapter in Indore image - twitter/@M_Lekhi) Int’l Students Facilitation Centre opens at Ludhiana @DCM Yes School Image - Facebook SANJEEV KUMAR I ndian Diaspora who want to connect with the culture and education system back home can utilise the services of the NRI and International Students Facilitation Centre that was recently inaugurated in Ludhiana in Punjab, India. The centre has been started by DCM Young Entrepreneurs School for the benefit of NRI and international students who wish to familiarise with their roots and acquire global education with Indian ethos. Dean of the school Meenakshi Sharma said the institute has been opened for people who have settled abroad and wish to send their children to India. Such students will be inducted seamlessly into the Indian culture and the education system so that the entire transition is hassle free. Appreciating the initiative, Assistant Commissioner Ludhiana and Sub-Divisional Magistrate Raikot Gurbir Singh Kohli termed it as a golden opportunity for the NRI and International students to study in their home country. It was the need of the hour, he said. The school will encourage students to study artificial intelligence, astronomy, IT, sports, music, to mention a few. It will also use experiential learning initiatives besides the facilities at International Languages Development Centre where French, Spanish, Italian and German will be taught. The institute has been established for people who have relocated outside of India and want to send their children there.

Tamil consumers have exceeded 450,000 in the UAE. The school is part of the GEMS ModernMillennium cluster headed by Nargish Khambatta, principal/ CEO of GEMS Modern Academy in Dubai. Email [email protected] Website www.NewIndiaAbroad.Com Stay Ahead With Us! subscribe Now New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 17 CBSE school in Sharjah gets ‘outstanding’ rating by SPEA Tamil Mart launches online platform in UAE STAFF REPORTER House of Digital (HOD), a Dubai-based e-commerce firm, has partnered with Tamil Mart to launch a joint venture platform: www.thetamilmart.com , a dedicated e-commerce platform for Tamil and South Indian products in the Gulf Region. Being the ninth eCommerce platform by HOD, the new online platform will benefit around 450,000 Tamil consumers in the UAE, by providing easy access to 4,000 types of products in 15 categories and 100 brands. “The new e-commerce platform www. thetamilmart.com will help spread organic and healthy products sourced from sustainable and organic farms in Tamil Nadu and promote healthy living while supporting sustainable farming,” Praveen Kumar, founder and CEO of HOD said. “We are glad to form this partnership with Tamil Mart that will help organic and healthy food as well as authentic Tamil products available to the UAE consumers who would be able to get the products at their doorsteps through the e-commerce application,” Kumar added. He further emphasized that the platform apart from benefitting customers will help in the internationalization of Tamil products. ““Our partnership will help not only Tamil or South Indian consumers, but also those who are not used to these ethnic and authentic products, get a taste of these organic and healthy foods and other consumer products. The new e-commerce platform will also internationalise Tamil products to a wider global consumer base.” Tamil Mart will deliver essential items ranging from basic foodstuffs, farm-fresh vegetables, rice, pulses, dal, spices, beverages, snacks, sweets, kitchenware, household items, garments, clothes, accessories, toys across the seven emirates, a news release noted. MADHU BALAJI The GEMS Millennium School, Sharjah, (GMS), which follows the Indian CBSE curriculum has been awarded an ‘outstanding’ rating by the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) following a detailed review of the school. The school jumped two levels from a ‘Good’ rating at its last review in May 2019, to become the only school in the emirate to date to be awarded an ‘Outstanding’ rating by the authorities. According to an official statement from the school, SPEA ran an in-depth inspection by six expert reviewers that observed 180 lessons towards the end of last year. “Teaching is outstanding overall; teachers make very effective use of questioning and assessment. The curriculum is highly modified, and the school is inclusive of all students,” the report said. “Strong leadership has resulted in highly accurate selfevaluation and improvement planning. The learning environment is exceptionally well developed, with plentiful specialist resources, including the availability of learning technologies for teachers and students,” it added. GMS principal and CEO Teresa Varman said, “We have always felt that we have a unique school that is outstanding, because it has been our determination to ensure that pupils make as much progress as possible both academically and personally.” “I am grateful to the staff for their unparalleled commitment to ensuring that our pupils are the best people that they can be. I extend my thanks to the school community, including the governors, for working together to achieve this outstanding recognition and for helping us to achieve this remarkable success in a relatively short span of time,” Varman added. The school which has over 2,200 students, mostly Indians, is part of the GEMS ModernMillennium cluster headed by Nargish Khambatta, principal/ CEO of GEMS Modern Academy in Dubai. Image: Facebook GEMS Millennium School – Sharjah Tamil Mart physical store. Image - Facebook/Tamil Mart.

18 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 British Monarch King Charles III conveyed his tribute to the BAPS’ founder, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, whom he met in 1997. Stay Ahead With Us! Email [email protected] Website www.NewIndiaAbroad.Com Global tributes pour in for Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Ahmedabad VIKAL SAMDARIYA As part of the centenary celebrations of the renowned spiritual guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Sanstha in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is organizing themed celebrations focused on every continent their founder visited. On the 8 January 2023, BAPS devotees marked the UK and Europe Day with messages from the British King, the British Prime Minister,and notable members of the government and diaspora. In his message read by the British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, King Charles IIII recollected his meeting with the BAPS leader in 1997 and his selfless service. “His Holiness’s timeless message that ‘In the joy of others lies our own, in the progress of others rests our own, in the good of others abides our own, know this to be the key to peace and happiness,’ resonates as much now as it always has,” Charles’ letter read. Rishi Sunak shared in a video message Pramukh Swami’s dedication to service and hailed him for building the magnificent Neasden temple in London. “Over the past many years, these efforts have not gone unrecognised. Roads have been named after Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and our iconic Wembley Stadium arch has been lit up to pay tribute to his service and support for our country. So, as you gather to mark Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s 100th birth anniversary, let me pay my respects to his enduring memory and the incredible legacy he has passed on,” the British Hindu leader said. On North America Day Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau said in a video message to the assembly, “Today we are celebrating the rich life of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and everything he did to build and grow BAPS. Throughout his life, Pramukh Swami Maharaj left a mark on Canada.” Indian Americans Kenny Desai, president of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), Neal Patel, chairman – Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) and Sunil Nayak, CEO of InnZen Hospitality also paid their tributes in person while US congressmen Marc Veasey of Texas and Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania hailed the leader virtually. Consul General of India in Dubai, Aman Puri and Former CEO of the Abu Dhabi Investment Council Nazem AlKudsi were some dignitaries who attended the Gulf Countries Day celebrations on Jan. 6, 2023. Message from British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak on the occasion of BAPS Europe Day’ Celebrations www.baps.org (L-R)Cameron Mackay and Alex Ellis , Canada and British High Commissioners to India respectively, took part in the celebrations in Ahmedabad.

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 19 Although yoga is occasionally misconstrued as religious, mystical, esoteric, and occult, it is anything but that. Why is knowledge of yoga and its medical benefits essential for modern medicine? INDRANILL BASU-RAY The weather had been extremely sultry all the week when I had left my house early- a typical Memphis summer morning. Then, the storm suddenly broke out, and I was forced to maneuver my car through a white wall of rain. Thunder and lightning were frequent, and the rain came plunging down like a sack of nails let loose somewhere up in the sky. Within an hour, I managed to get into my hospital, rushing to see the first patient. An older gentleman was ushered in, and a young lady held his hands with care as if she held a masterpiece just drawn by Van Gogh. “This is Mr…. and his daughter Milly,” said the ushering-in nurse with her staple staccato speech as she helped the gentleman sit on the patient’s bed with his head inclined. It was still raining, as I could see through the greased glasses of the large old Victorian window. The wind was still perceptibly strong, bent the trees, and drove the rain before it like a cloud of smoke. We discussed his condition. “He has been having palpitations since he was diagnosed with heart failure,” the daughter retorted to my questioning the old man about his symptoms. Then, as we finished with the patient and it was time for them to leave, the daughter turned back from the door. “I have one question for you, though I am not sure if it would be right to ask!” “Please go ahead,” I said as I saw a storm hitting the window with more fury and thunderous claps, splitting the sky with streaks of violet light. What could she ask, I wondered? Diet, medicine…we spoke about everything. I even promised to send his cardiologist and primary care a letter updating my plans. “My father was an athlete and very healthy,” She looked at me with a matterof-fact tone, “Can he at least do Yoga to keep his fitness?” “Yoga?” I burped; that frankly took me by surprise. Not a common question that I get asked every day. “Who will teach him to do yoga?” I asked her while trying to gain time to answer her real questions. “I am a trained yoga therapist,” she looked back at me, throwing her hair back as if it was not a big deal. “I run a yoga studio.” Then, she looked at me pointedly. I have been a yoga practitioner for some time now. So, with an elementary knowledge of the subject, we discussed what he could do and avoid till he got his cardiac ejection fraction better. She was visibly surprised at my comfort in answering her. “I had asked both his primary care and cardiologist,” she complained, “they proposed that I see a complementary medicine practice.” Yoga is a non-religious, spiritual, therapeutic, scientific, and inclusive process for humanity of every color, creed, sex, and culture. It is a practical philosophy for health and wellness. Although yoga is occasionally misconstrued as religious, mystical, esoteric, and occult, it is anything but that. The “Yoga Sutras,” written by sage Patanjali around 1000 BC or even earlier, is the only definitive yoga text delineating this. The author defines yoga as controlling oneself to be successful, happy, and healthy. There is no requirement to believe in God, do sacred chanting, or even be prayerful to benefit from yoga. Thanks to scientific discoveries and medical research, yoga has been an integral part of what is now called “integrative medicine. Most chronic noncommunicable diseases like heart disease, cancer, and rheumatic diseases can be both prevented or attenuated using yoga in addition to modern medicine. Yoga works internally to reduce stress, brings about changes in the brain that decreases anxiety and depression, and overhauls the autonomic nervous system, accentuating the parasympathetic function protective of the heart. Yoga has also been found to increase immunity that protects against various infections and certainly Covid 19. With millions of purported daily Yoga practitioners in this country using yoga to stay healthy with their own pocket money, physicians need to understand the basics of the system and its scientific and medical relevance. “International Yoga Day was on the 21st of June,” I asked the patient’s daughter; “did you do anything special?” “Yes, I took a yoga session online,” She retorted with her eyes glowing, “we had over a thousand participants.” The door closed behind them. I looked outside; the rain stopped so has the wind. Golden streaks of sunshine bathed the universe. The footpaths were glowing. “Modern medicine is astoundingly efficacious in acute care medicine,” I thought, reflecting on my one and half decades of training in India and the US to be a cardiac electrophysiologist. “Combining yoga makes it so even in noncommunicable chronic diseases.” Indranill Basu-Ray is a Cardiologist and a Cardiac Electrophysiologist. He is also a Professor of Cardiology and Public Health. He is the President of American Academy for Yoga in Medicine (AAYM). He is the author of the book “The Principle and Practice of Yoga in Cardiovascular Medicine.” It is available at USA Amazon Link Check him out at www.aaymonline.org or contact him at ibr@ aaymonline.org

20 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 STAFF REPORTER I n commemoration of the Hockey World Cup being held in Odisha, India, popular sand artist from the state, Sudarshan Pattnaik sculpted the world’s largest hockey stick, with sand and hockey balls. The artwork created by him and his team of 15 students in two days was unveiled on January 11, to mark the inauguration of the FIH Mens’ Hockey World Cup. The gigantic 105-foot-long hockey stick was made up of 5000 hockey balls and more than five tonnes of sand at the Mahanadi river bank in Cuttack, Odisha. Meanwhile, the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha, saw a grand opening ceremony of the tournament attended by 45,000 fans on Jan. 11. Musical and dance performances by bollywood heavyweights Ranveer Singh and Disha Patani, K-pop girl group Black Swan and Bollywood playback singers Pritam and group enthralled the large audience. The official anthem of the FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup 2023: “Hockey Hai Dil Mera” was performed live by the composer of the anthem, Pritam along with the 11 singers who sang the original song.Speaking at the event, International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Tayyab Ikram said “I love the song “Hockey Hai Dil Mera”! I heard everyone mention that Odisha is the land of culture and heritage. I want to add that this is also the land of Hockey!” “One of the world’s best hockey stadiums is now open in Rourkela where the world’s best hockey players are about to perform, and they have already declared this one of the best hockey facilities in the world,” he added. Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Pattnaik, Indian Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Anurag Thakur, and president of Hockey India, Dilip Tirkey were among the dignitaries who graced the event. Hockey World Cup in Odisha Images - Sports Odisha Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik creates world’s largest hockey stick to mark FIH Hockey World Cup in Odisha Image: Twitter/@sudarsansand Grand celebrations took place at the opening ceremony of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2023 in Odisha’s Barabati Stadium.

New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 21 Virat Kohli eyes Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI centuries HARI BALAKRISHNAN Virat Kohli, former Indian captain, made a statement with the bat scoring two centuries in the ODI series against Sri Lanka, which concluded in a 3-0 win for the Men in Blue. The first one off 80 balls was scored on the opening day while the second one off 85 balls was scored on third day of the series. With a total of 46 ODI hundreds, the batter has inched closer to Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar’s record (49) for the most ODI centuries. However, he also broke Tendulkar’s record for the most centuries scored at home (20), with his latest century in Thiruvananthapuram. Accepting his player of the match award, Kohli said, “It is the by-product of the intent I have. The mindset is to help the team and put the team in a strong position. I have played for the right reasons and that has helped. Ever since I came back from the break, I am feeling good and I don’t have the desperation to get to a milestone.” “I want to continue doing that and am content. Today I was happy to be batting out there and in that space, I end up playing good cricket. I am in a nice space right now, just be organic,” he added. Virat Kohli eyes Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI home centuries (Image: Twitter/@Thyview) Anahat Singh wins Girls U-15 title at British Junior Open Squash STAFF REPORTER Anahat Singh, a young Indian squash player, won the girls’ Under-15 title at the prestigious British Junior Open in Birmingham on January 10, being held after two years due to the pandemic. The 14-year-old, who was India’s youngest participant at the Commonwealth Games last year, won the final this year with a 3-1 win over Egypt’s Sohaila Hazem. Singh defeated Malaysian Harleen Tan 3-0 in the quarter-finals before defeating Egypt’s Malak Samir in the same fashion during the semifinals. Born in New Delhi on March 13, 2008 to Gursharan Singh, a lawyer, and Tani Vadehra Singh, an interior designer, Singh is coached by her sister Amira and former national-level squash players Amjad Khan and Ashraf Hussein. Singh first gained attention when she won the Under-11 title in 2019 at the famous British Open squash event, setting a squash record for India. She went on to win bronze at the Asian Junior Championships in the same year. The young player established herself as India’s rising star in Squash when she finished as the runner-up in the girls’ Under-13 in 2020. She will next be seen in the Asian Junior team championships, which will be held in Chennai in February. Anahat Singh wins Girls U-15 title at British Junior Open Squash tournament Image: Twitter/@BJOsquash She is tutored by Roy Pastor, the chief instructor for the Break and Run Junior Instruction Program, a free online programme offered by the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) aimed largely at juniors. Tanvee Vellem, youngest contestant in World Women’s 9-Ball Championship Thanvee Vellam, Champion at various pool competitions. ( Image - Provided ) BHAVANA P 9 -year-old Tanvee Vallem, a nonresident of India, will compete in the 2023 Kamui World Women’s 9-Ball Championship, which will take place in New Jersey, USA from January 19–22. Tanvee will be the youngest person to have ever competed in a pool competition for the Women’s World Championship. She earned the nickname “Lilac Tiger” when she competed as the youngest player in the World Junior 9 Ball Championship in Puerto Rico in November 2022. Tanvee has received an invitation to take part in this prestigious competition from the WPA (World Pool-Billiard Association), the ACBS (Asian Confederation of Billiard Sports), and the BSFI (Billiards and Snooker Federation of India). She is tutored by Roy Pastor, the chief instructor for the Break and Run Junior Instruction Program, a free online programme offered by the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) aimed largely at juniors. The pioneer in cuttingedge pool billiards goods, Predator Group, signed a partnership agreement with Tanvee last week. Along with her Chitra Magimairaj, 49, from Bengaluru, a two-time World Ladies Billiards and Snooker Association World Champion, will also take part in this competition. The total grand prize for the 64-player event is US$148,000, out of which the winner will pocket US$30,000. Kelly Fisher of the United Kingdom is the defending champion after winning the competition in Sanya, China, in 2019 for the second time. The Women’s WPA 9 Ball World Championship was first held in 1990. Owing to the pandemic, it was postponed earlier and is now back after a four-year break. Allison Fisher, an English woman, is the most successful player. She was the competition’s winner in 1996, 1997, 1998, and 2001.

22 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 M. M. Keeravani the music composer for the song with the Golden Glove Award. RRR’s ‘Naatu Naatu’ song was shot outside the Ukrainian President’s palace. RRR pips Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift to win Golden Globe SANJEEV KUMAR The success of S S Rajamouli’s magnum opus, RRR on foreign shores is creating new records with the film’s Naatu Naatu song overtaking industry heavyweights Rihanna, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift to win Golden Globe for Best Original Song. RRR’s ‘Natu Natu’ song held off competition from Rihanna’s Lift Me Up, Lady Gaga’s Hold My Hand and Taylor Swift’s Carolina to emerge winner in the category. Though RRR was also nominated in Best Non-English language film the film couldn’t make to winners list. Argentina, 1985 bagged the Golden Globe award in the category. Expressing his feelings on the win, Rajamouli said in a tweet, ‘Speechless. Music truly knows no boundaries. Congratulations & thank you Peddannaa for giving me Natu Natu. This one is special. I thank each and every fan across the globe for shaking their leg and making popular.” Prime Minister Narendra modi also took to Twitter to congratulate the RRR team for the historic win. “A very special accomplishment!. This prestigious honour has made every Indian very proud,” he wrote. Rihanna too congratulated RRR team for the win as she along with her partner ASAP Rocky walked past RRR table at Golden Globe Awards that took place in Beverly Hills, California. RRR which has earned over US$146 million globally is set in British occupied India of the 1920s where NTR Jr and Ram Charan play the role of freedom fighters Komaram Bheem and Alluri Seetharamaraju respectively. The cast includes Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgan as well as british actors, Ray Stevenson, Alison Doody and Olivia Morris. Image -Twitter/@RRRMovie

Aries This week, be prepared for unforeseen events, Aries, because many things will take you by surprise. If you want to avoid making bad decisions, let yourself be guided by logic, common sense and your intuition. They will prevent you from making mistakes. There could be restructuring changes at work that could affect you. Don’t get discouraged. The best thing you can do is to adapt, to let go, to let everything work by inertia. Don’t complain because it won’t help. Also, although it may be difficult at first, you will realize as the days go by that what happened is working in your favor, so keep your spirits up. Fortunately, if you are in a relationship, love flows naturally. Good times and nights full of passion await you. If you are single, you will meet someone who will make you see things in a new light. Taurus You’ve always been convinced that you’re a good leader, Taurus, but this week you might find that your team members are far from seeing you as a hero. It hurts, no doubt, but you can fix it with a good dose of willpower and also humility. Correct your behavior and the way you address people. In the end, you will turn out to be the leader you thought you were. Take advantage of these days when the stars strengthen your capacity for reconciliation and heal any conflicts that may arise. You can be happy because now your finances are safe. If you’ve done your best to organize your income and expenses, you’re starting to reap the rewards of that effort. On the sentimental level, this week, a threat hangs over relationships. Gemini You’re a bit in the doldrums these days from the boredom of routine at work, Gemini. You feel less and less satisfied with the way your work is going. You will have to seriously consider a change, because you cannot allow it to influence other aspects of your life. Don’t decide right away, but think about it. Explore the possibilities available to you in this area. Just thinking about it and educating yourself will lift your spirits. If you set yourself the goal of finding a new opportunity, you will definitely succeed and find a place where you will feel fulfilled. On a romantic level, you could meet an ex with whom you did not get along well and your feelings for him could be rekindled. Cancer A lucky week awaits you in the field of work, Cancer. The stars are aligning in your favor. You are entering a cycle that will allow you to progress and promote yourself professionally. Visualize what you would like to be, the position you would like to occupy. Put all your energy into these thoughts and repeat them often. You now have a great astral impulse to achieve this. If you have a business, this week is also a good time to invest in upgrades or equipment renewals. You need to do this because something is not working properly and could cause you loss. In love, if you are worried about some change in your partner’s attitude and suspect that there may be someone else in his life, it’s not someone tied to their job like you think. Take a look at your social circle. Before making a decision, find out what is really going on. Leo This week, the stars bring you all the energy you need to clarify your ideas in order to make the right decisions on the matters that concern you, Leo. Trust your judgment and your ability to resolve any situation. Avoid provocations from envious people around you at work. If you are responsible for a business that is not doing as well as it should, don’t throw in the towel, make an effort to overcome the crisis. Next weekend you will have an intense social and family life, from where you will receive advice and offers that will benefit you. In the sentimental domain, avoid anchoring yourself in past situations that make you suffer or make you uncomfortable. If you decided to stay with someone, forget all the negative things and focus on the good things you’ve done with him. Only then can you once again enjoy what love and this particular relationship can offer you. If you succeed, nights of great passion await you. Virgo This will be a breakthrough week for you professionally, Virgo. You may have recently had a disagreement with a superior. It seemed like everything was settled, but your intuition tells you that there is a grudge. You are not wrong. This person’s ego has been hurt and they are waiting for the opportunity to make you pay for it. It may be time to change course, as your sign is now very well aspected for changes in your work. The important thing is to walk away from negativity. These days, you should try to get rid of the bad mood that invades you at times, due to family problems, and which you often unload on your partner. Take notice and apologize to your other half. He or she is the best person to help you get through it. If you are a Virgo who is afraid to fall in love again for fear of suffering, here is an opportunity. Courage. This time you have everything to be happy. Libra Although you feel super energetic and full of optimism, Libra, control the negative people around you these days and don’t let them affect you with their pessimism. This vision and complaints about everything are absolutely useless. It is better to fight to improve your situation. Use your intuition. If you have a business, a good opportunity for expansion may present itself this week. However, someone around you, perhaps a partner, may not see it clearly. You will have to face this obstacle and calmly develop a plan to achieve your goals. Try to convince them with good arguments and better words. You can do it, you are good at negotiating. This week, you are particularly protected by the stars as far as reconciliations are concerned. You will have the ability to forgive and forget old frictions. This will serve you at the level of friendship and family, but especially in love. Now is the time to show your loved one how you feel, not with words, but with deeds. Scorpio You may receive thanks from your superiors this week, Scorpio. There will be people around you who will praise you profusely, but don’t trust everyone. Some people who don’t belong in your category, neither ethically nor professionally, feel envy towards you and your accomplishments, which results in poisonous “praise” because that your success does not suit them. The best thing to do in this situation is to pretend you don’t know, to ignore the question. Focus on your goals, that is to say on what really interests you to progress, and forget the rest. In the sentimental field, for some time there has been a difference of opinion with your partner. That’s not so bad on its own, but instead of taking your own part of the blame, you attribute these frictions to the bad influence exerted by people in your partner’s circle. Change your attitude! Sagittarius You are aware of your talent and your creative ability, Sagittarius, but you perceive that people do not fully understand your initiatives. Maybe you should explain yourself better and with more enthusiasm. However, there is also an element of envy of others that prevents you from developing as you would like. But don’t worry and keep working hard because luck will come sooner than you think. Also try to be more optimistic. You can’t change situations, but you can change how you see them and how you approach solutions. Also, you have reason to rejoice, as your finances are balancing out and it is likely that you will receive some money that you had not expected. On a sentimental level, if you are in a relationship, gossip can reach your ears during these days. Do not be careful and trust the person you love, because the stars predict a very good future for this relationship. Capricorn It is very important, Capricorn, that this week you keep calm, that you are not in a hurry to solve a problem. You must think about each of your steps in order not to make mistakes. In the field of work, this is not the time to make decisions. There may be changes or novelties in your work. Try to adapt to it and you will find the solution next week. It is possible that a new option will be offered to you, but the answer will be delayed for a few days. Focus on controlling your money because there is a risk of loss. Do not spend unnecessarily, and even less do not invest just anywhere. You may receive an invitation from a friend to go to a meeting or a weekend outing. Don’t accept it, because a person who caused you emotional damage from which you have not recovered will also be present. In love, if you are in a relationship, you are going to experience very important moments, perhaps an official engagement. Aquarius You are now entering a period favorable to changes in the field of work, Aquarius, but you also have on the horizon the possibility of a promotion. Wait a bit to make up your mind and put your thoughts in order. Listen to your intuition, which will guide you in the right direction. There will be turmoil in your family these days and you will need to resolve these conflicts. On a sentimental level, you may have a crush on someone who has nothing to do with your current partner. Think carefully before embarking on an adventure with an uncertain future. Your partner has always behaved in an exemplary manner, especially in difficult times. You don’t really have anything to complain about. Be more realistic and don’t get carried away with vanity. Pisces Changes will now be the order of the day in your professional life, Pisces. You may be suffering because you fear that certain restructurings in your company will have negative consequences for you. This is not the case, on the contrary. These changes could be very beneficial to you. You will now have the opportunity to show your talent. Don’t go too far. If, as a result, you are planning to quit your job and try your luck in a business you have in mind, it is not advisable. It is true that you are on the right track in this area, but you now view this possibility with too much optimism. Analyze it more deeply and don’t make hasty decisions. In your relationship with your partner, friction arises because you always want to be right. Sometimes we get angry because we want to impose our will, no matter who is right. You don’t allow your partner to express their opinions, ideas, or goals. If you want the relationship to work, change your attitude, give it more attention. Weekly Horoscope Sundeep Kochar Astrologer https://www.sundeepkochar.com New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 23

24 New India Abroad Monday, 16 January, 2023 Similar to the Thanksgiving festival celebrated in the United States, Makar Sankranti is essentially a harvest festival celebrated to appreciate the bountiful produce Makar Sankranti... India’s version of Thanksgiving SANJEEV KUMAR Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival c e l e b r a t e d across India by different names as Maghi, Bihu, Pongal, Uttarayan or Khichadi Sankranti, marks the transition of Sun (deity) from Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makar) zodiac sign or new beginnings. Similar to the Thanksgiving festival celebrated in the United States, Makar Sankranti is essentially a harvest festival celebrated to appreciate the bountiful produce and blessings received throughout the year. The festival Is an important aspect of religious practices in India. People take dips in holy rivers for absolution of past sins, and take part in communal gatherings. Fairs, kite flying, bonfires, song and dance are typical activities associated with the festival. In Gujarat, the festival is called Uttarayan and is celebrated by flying kites and shouts of “kaipo-che”, when a kite is cut. Undhiyu (spicy vegetable curry) is a delicacy prepared on the occasion with green beans, new baby potatoes, sweet potatoes and brinjals. Celebrated for four days as Pongal in Tamilnadu, the festival’s highlight is preparation of pongal- both sweet and savoury made of seasonal vegetables in an earthern pot. The four days are called Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal. Bengalis celebrate it as Poush Sankranti and prepare sweets like Pathishapta, Pithe and other dishes of jaggery. The famous Ganga Sagar Mela, also takes place in the state during the festival. Assamese people celebrate Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu on a grand scale. Bihu linked to agriculture and rice is typically celebrated by eating Pitha (rice cakes) and burning bonfires during the day. In Northern states, panjiri made with dry fruits, nuts, seeds and edible, til-gur and laddoos are the favourite delicacies that provide nutrition and energy in the festivities. In Uttar Pradesh, Khichadi is relished while in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Appalu is a festive delicacy of the season, made of rice, wheat and jaggery. Ellu Bella, a dish made of sesame, jaggery, peanuts and coconut is relished in Karnataka. Woman making Pongal in Tamil Nadu International Kite festival in Gujarat Sankranti Mela (Fair)