Mar 13, 2023: New India Abroad English E-paper

*New India Abroad is a Registered trademark and not affiliated with the newspaper named India Abroad marketed in the US from 1972 to 2021. PM Modi, Australian PM Albanese display camaraderie on cricket field Garcetti clears Senate Foreign Relations Committee A platform for the voice of next generation Indian Americans Year 1, Volume 21 Washington DC, Monday 13 March, 2023 ...Page 2 ...Page 12 ...Page 21 US Commerce Secretary celebrates Holi festival in India ...Page 3 SUNITA SOHRABJI S ANTA CLARA, California — Thousands of startup founders and their employees faced a weekend of panic, as Silicon Valley Bank was abruptly shuttered by regulators March 10 after depositors and investors tried to pull out $42 billion, the second biggest run on a bank in U.S. history. Depositors with accounts valued at under $250,000 were insured by the FDIC. However, more than 90 percent of Silicon Valley Bank customers had accounts valued at over $250,000, which meant that everything over that amount was not insured. Late March 12 afternoon, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Federal Reserve Board Chair Jerome H. Powell, and FDIC Chairman Martin J. Gruenberg jointly released a statement, noting that depositors at Silicon Valley Bank would have access to all their funds the following morning. Investors in SVB are not protected by the Feds announcement. They will receive nothing. “This is an interim measure to take care of fears that are emerging when the Asian markets open in a couple of hours,” venture capitalist MR Rangaswami, managing director of the Sandhill Group, told New India Abroad. “They want to avoid a crash in Asia that would follow in the U.S. tomorrow morning.” “There would have been a huge market correction if there was not an announcement by 6:30 a.m. Eastern Time Monday morning,” said Rangaswami. SVB served the cutting edge of start-ups in several sectors, including climate tech, national security, artificial intelligence and other endeavors. “It was definitely a very sad day for Silicon Valley bank and its constituents,” venture capitalist Vish Mishra, a general partner at Clearstone Venture Partners, told New India Abroad in an interview before regulators announced the 11th hour save. “This is an iconic bank which has propelled the innovation economy.” “Moody’s was going to downgrade the bank’s credit rating, and people started to panic by pulling out their deposits. But it was a Draconian measure for California regulators to abruptly lower the boom. They should have given them a 30-day grace period. Their balance sheet is so strong,” he said. The closure of the bank would have definite ramifications for India, especially if layoffs had ensued, said Mishra, adding also that a large percentage of venture capital in India stems from the U.S. Shernaz Daver, operating partner and CMO at Khosla Ventures, told New India Abroad that on March 11, Khosla Ventures went to 100 companies in its portfolio and offered to provide personal loans so that companies could make payroll. She quoted founder Vinod Khosla: “VCs need to be value adds now and not blame founders. Most large funds can and should help.” Irfan Khan, founder of Cloud Sufi, a data monetization company with over 300 employees told New India Abroad: “We are a profitable company, built on a very solid foundation, but this will set us back a few years. Our acquisitions strategy will have to change.” As he heard the news of SVB’s collapse, Khan decided to take a “wait and watch” approach. “I was expecting the government to step in and stabilize the situation.” “Everyone is shaking their heads right now. Which banks can we trust? And what do we trust going forward? Gold bars? It is time for government to step in and show business that these errors can and will be corrected immediately,” said Khan. SILICON VALLEY BANK SHUTTERED Indian American entrepreneurs breathe sigh of relief as Feds step in Image: Twitter “This is our country’s win” Ram Charan on RRR oscar win

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, 13 March, 2023 PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese gave a ceremonial start to the fourth match of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. “The country is showing what’s possible when we invest in innovation,” the Microsoft cofounder said. More optimistic than ever about India, Bill Gates after meeting PM Modi VIKAL SAMDARIYA Bill Gates and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed India’s progress in health, development, and climate, its G20 presidency and other significant areas at a in person meeting on March 3, 2023, in Delhi. After the meeting with the Prime Minister, Gates remarked in his blog, “My conversation with the Prime Minister left me more optimistic than ever about the progress that India is making in health, development, and climate.” Praising India’s vaccine initiatives and its manufacturing capabilities to produce affordable vaccines, Gates said, “Vaccines produced in India have saved millions of lives during the pandemic and prevented other diseases around the world.” Referring to the country’s indigenously developed platform Co-WIN, he added, “This platform is now being expanded to support India’s universal immunization program. Prime Minister Modi believes that Co-WIN is a model for the world, and I agree.” The Microsoft cofounder further lauded India for implementing digital payments during the pandemic. “This was only possible because India has made financial inclusion a priority, investing in a digital ID system (called Aadhaar) and creating innovative platforms for digital banking. It’s a reminder that financial inclusion is a fantastic investment,” he emphasized in his blog. The blog also had highlights of parts of his conversation with Prime Minister Modi including India’s G20 Presidency, the Gati Shakti program, education, climate change and India’s efforts to eliminate deadly and debilitating diseases. On climate change, Gates said that he is working with India to promote and develop clean energy technologies. “ I’m looking forward to getting together with the Mission Innovation (MI) partners during the COP28 Summit this December to accelerate the development of new sources of affordable, reliable clean energy,” he wrote. He ended his blog by expressing pride that his nonprofit the Gates Foundation has enabled India adopt and implement innovative methods in various areas. “The country is showing what’s possible when we invest in innovation. I hope India will continue this progress and share its innovations with the world. I’m proud that the Gates Foundation will be a partner along the way,” he concluded. Prime Minister Modi with Bill Gates. Image - Gates Notes PM Modi, Australian PM Albanese display camaraderie on cricket field STAFF REPORTER Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese took a lap of honor at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad ahead of the fourth commemorative cricket test match of BorderGavaskar Trophy on March 9, 2023. The leaders were greeted with loud cheering and applause during the ceremonial start, after which they handed over the test caps to their respective team captains, Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith. They also met with the players on the ground followed by the playing of the national anthem of both nations. The PMs witnessed a part of the match between the two cricket-loving nations at the stadium in Ahmedabad. On watching the cricket match together, the Australian PM tweeted “Celebrating 75 years of friendship through cricket with Indian Prime Minister @ narendramodi” Upon arriving at the stadium, both leaders were felicitated by the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. During their stay at the stadium, leaders enjoyed a cultural performance, Unity of Symphony by singer Falguni Shah. Image - Twitter / Narendra Modi Image - Twitter/Narendra Modi Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad.

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 3 Image: Twitter The U.S. Secretary of Commerce is in New Delhi to participate in the U.S.-India Commercial Dialogue and CEO Forum which will be held on March 10, 2023 US Commerce Secretary celebrates festival in India VIKAL SAMDARIYA US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo celebrated the Holi festival at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s official residence in New Delhi. The vibrant colorful celebration was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, other ministers, members of Parliament, Indian officials and US Embassy officials along with their families. Sharing glimpses of the festival of colors on Twitter, Raimondo said, “A day filled with color, joy, and light. May we carry it with us as we continue to strengthen the bonds between India and the United States.” On Raimondo’s participation in the Holi celebration, Goyal said, “Colors of Friendship. Wonderful to have US Secretary of Commerce @SecRaimondo & her colleagues join us for Holi celebrations at Defence Minister @RajnathSingh’s residence.” “Delighted to host the United States Secretary of Commerce,Gina Raimondo on the auspicious occasion of Holi at my official residence.” Rajnath Singh said posting a video and pictures of the US secretary taking part in the Holi festivities. Extending gratitude for hosting her for the Holi celebration, Raimondo tweeted, “Happy Holi from Delhi, India! Thank you for hosting me, @rajnathsingh. What an incredible start to my visit.” Image - Twitter/@SecRaimondo President Biden, CAPAC members extend Holi greetings MADHU BALAJI President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris extended their Holi greetings to the Hindu community in the US, India and the world. “I wish the happiest Holi to those celebrating love, laughter, goodness, and the arrival of spring during today’s Festival of Colors,” Biden tweeted. VP Kamala Harris extended her greetings that the vibrant color of Holi would brighten the world with joy, hope and positivity. The members of the Congressional AsianPacific American Caucus (CAPAC) also extended statements to celebrate the festival of colors. US representative from Washington’s 7th congressional district Pramila Jayapal of the CAPAC, claimed that this is the powerful time of the year as they welcome spring and new growth. “I hope this holiday brings us all communion, love, and gratitude,” Jayapal added. Ro Khanna, US representative from California’s 17th congressional district, born to Indian immigrants, stated that the festival is a reminder of the triumph of good over evil. Raja Krishnamoorthi, US representative for Illinois’s 8th congressional district, said, “During this festival of colors, let us take a moment to celebrate the arrival of spring and renew our commitment to bringing peace and prosperity to all.” The members of the Congressional AsianPacific American Caucus (CAPAC) also extended statements to celebrate the festival of colors. US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo (Second from Right) and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (First from Right) at Holi celebration.

4 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 3 Monday, 6 February, 2023 New India Abroad Ami Bera on the Select Committee on Intelligence, Raja Krishnamoorthi on the Select Committee that looks at Strategic Competition between the US and China; Ro Khanna on the Sub-committee on Cyber, Innovative Technologies and Information Systems and Pramila Jaypal on the Sub-committee on Immigration. Indian American Legislators in key House Committees STAFF REPORTER The Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives has picked four Indian American law makers for critical Committee positions: Ami Bera of California for Select Committee on Intelligence: Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois as Ranking Member in the Select Committee that looks at Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party; Ro Khanna of California as Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Innovative Technologies and Information Systems (CITI) and Pramila Jaypal of the State of Washington as Ranking Member in the Sub-committee on Immigration. Bera’s influential House Permanent Select Committee oversees intelligence activities of the United States including that of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), the National Security Agency (NSA) and military intelligence programs. “At a time of increased threats, both at home and abroad, I take seriously this new role and the responsibility entrusted to me to protect and defend American families”, Bera has said. In a new Committee formed in the 118th Congress to specifically investigate and develop policy to address America’s economic, technological and security competition with the Communist Party of China, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi will be serving as Ranking Member. “The Chinese Communist Party poses serious economic and security threats to the United States and to democracy and prosperity across the globe, illustrated by its threats against Taiwan’s democracy, its weaponization of TikTok, and its theft of hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of American intellectual property”, the Illinois Democrat said. “… at a time when anti-Asian hate and violence are on the rise, it’s essential that this committee focuses its vital work on protecting all Americans from the threat posed by the CCP, while avoiding dangerous rhetoric that fuels the types of xenophobia that have endangered members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community”, he added. Congressman Krishnamoorthi is also a senior Member in the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. While Ro Khanna is also a member of the committee on the Chinese Communist Party, he has been selected as a Ranking member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Innovative Technologies and Information Systems (CITI) in the 118th Congress. “Our adversaries are making advances in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence for their defense systems and have the potential to unleash cyberattacks against our critical infrastructure,”Khanna said. “In planning for the future of defense, our emerging and commercial technologies must be at the forefront. One of my goals on this committee will be to strengthen the bridge between Silicon Valley and the Department of Defense,” he added. Pramila Jayapal has been tapped to serve in the sub committee of the House Judiciary Committee on Immigration, Integrity, Security and Enforcement as a Ranking Member making her the first immigrant in a leadership role. “As the first South Asian woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and one of only two dozen naturalized citizens in Congress, I am honored and humbled to serve as the Ranking Member…”, she said in a statement. “ It is extremely meaningful to me that I will now be in this position to better move the needle and re-center our broken immigration system around dignity, humanity, and justice”, she added. Congresswoman Jayapal’s Sub committee will have jurisdiction over immigration law and policy, naturalization, border security, refugee admissions, nonborder immigration enforcement, and other various issues. Images- Twitter Mohanty will take charge from February 23, 2023. Kuldip Mohanty is Chief Information Officer in North Dakota MADHU BALAJI Governor of North Dakota Doug Burgum has announced the appointment of Kuldip Mohanty to the North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) department as the state’s next chief information officer (CIO). Mohanty will take charge from February 23, 2023. He has served the private sector for about 30 years. “Kuldip brings a wealth of experience in modernizing services and transforming IT that will help the State of North Dakota become more efficient and responsive, serving citizens 24/7 with smart, easy-touse systems. With his leadership of the outstanding team at NDIT, we look forward to building upon North Dakota’s reputation as a national leader in cybersecurity as we reduce redundancies, improve services and enhance the security of citizens’ data,” Burgum said. “It is a great honor and privilege to serve the people of North Dakota. I’m thankful to Gov. Burgum for the opportunity to lead the amazing team at North Dakota Information Technology,” Mohanty said. “I look forward to building on the momentum and successes of NDIT and collaborating with all stakeholders to build a citizen-centric, frictionless customer experience,” he added. Mohanty has served as senior vice president of IT and North America CIO for ManpowerGroup, a leading global workforce solutions company, from 2018- 2019. He has also served as vice president of enterprise IT strategy and services for CNO Financial Group from 2014-2018. Mohanty has a master’s degree in computer applications from Jorhat Engineering College and a master of business administration degree from the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business at DePaul University in Chicago. He serves on the board of the executive service corps in Chicago and has worked to improve education and health care in rural India with the Abhaya Foundation. Kuldip Mohanty Image: Twitter 22 Monday, 6 February, 2023 New India Abroad Known for combining Bollywood influences in her music, Aurora said she had so much to learn from all the artists performing at the event. SRK after Pathaan success My genuine desire is to spread happiness Khan said the overwhelming success of the film on the worldwide box office has “still not sunk in” SANJEEV KUMAR Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan a.k.a SRK on Jan 30, 2023 expressed his love for acting after the success of his new film, Pathaan, and said, “My genuine desire is to spread happiness and I feel bad if I fail to do so’. Khan made these remarks during the first press meet organized for the success of Pathaan, which has proved to be a blockbuster earning around US$ 67 million in just five days. His co-stars, Deepika Padukone and John Abraham, and director Siddharth Anand were also present on the occasion. SRK started the press meet by thanking fans, cast and crew for all the love and said, “There were some things that could have stalled happy release of the film, Pathaan and we can’t thank people enough on behalf of all Bollywood colleagues for bringing life back in cinemas.” Commenting on the controversy surrounding the movie, Khan said, “Our aim by making movies is to spread love and kindness even if we are playing bad characters, say bad things and it isn’t intended to hurt any sentiments. Fun and entertainment should left at that and it shouldn’t be taken seriously,” Khan added. He shared that his intention in film making was to ensure that people can watch it with love. Yet there were some incidents when some fans got too excited and might have broken a chair or two. “But It shouldn’t hurt or disturb anyone. Cinema watching, film making and film experience is an experience of love, more than an empty box of popcorn,” the Bollywood superstar said. Responding to a query on getting immense love after his movies become a hit, Khan retorted that his fans’ love remain the same even after a film doesn’t work. of fans who love me. My elders had told “I have millions, billions me that if some things don’t work go to the people who loves you. So whenever I am happy or sad, I go to my balcony (to meet people who love him). I am grateful that the God has given me lifetime ticket to the balcony.” Talking about his four year hiatus from movies, the actor said two and half years got marred by Covid and I, too, like everyone else, had good and bad parts. But most importantly, I was with my children and for first time, I saw my children, Aryan, Suhana and Abram grow up. “After Zero tanked then many people said my films wont work anymore now. So I had even thought of an alternate career during Covid, cooking and learned Italian cooking,” he said, adding he was planning to open Red Chillies Food Eatery. at Pathaan 2 by saying that he was grateful King Khan also hinted to Yash Raj Films (YRF) and Anand for giving him the opportunity to work in the movie and would definitely like to work in the sequel of the spy thriller. Image- Twitter/@JacyKhan “Feel so welcomed” Indian American singer Raveena Aurora on performing at Lollapalooza India STAFF REPORTER I ndian American singer and songwriter Raveena Aurora was overwhelmed with the love she received from the audience during her performance, at the inaugural Lollapalooza music festival held in Mumbai, India on January 29, 2023. Aurora took to Instagram to share her feelings after the show, “First show in India, can’t even explain how special this was, especially because of how much ‘Asha’s awakening’ (her new music album) was inspired by here.” “I think maybe in a way I was always searching for a sense of belonging somewhere and I think for a moment I felt it at this show,” the singer added. Known for combining Bollywood influences in her music, Aurora said she had so much to learn from all the artists performing at the event. “There is so much beauty and talent in every corner of my country. I love u all so much and thank u for making me feel so welcomed, I hope this is a spark to many more shows in India,” the 29-year-old singer wrote. It is worth noting that Aurora who is recognized for her ability to pair soothing sounds with powerful and soulful lyrics previously created headlines as the first ever Indian American to perform at Coachella 2022. Inspired by Indian singing legends such as Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhonsle, Aurora’s songs usually bring attention to social issues such as sexual assault, identity politics, sexuality, and heartbreak. Raised by Sikh parents in New York and Connecticut, she is considered a trailblazer for her exploration of sexuality and identity in her art, especially in the representation of the queer South Asian Community. Image - Instagram/@Raveena Aurora 15 Monday, 6 February, 2023 New India Abroad Dr. Shivangi maintained that health care across the world is regarded as an important determinant in promoting the general, physical, mental, and social well-being of people around the world and can contribute to a significant part of a country’s economy STAFF REPORTER S tressing that the diaspora wants to make India’s health care a world class endeavour by utilizing information technology, medicine, finance, banking and politics, Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician, an influential community leader and a veteran of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) recommended that the government of India must collaborate with the professional body. “I want to stress the importance of working together with solid cooperation and partnership, which will make such a tremendous change in the Indian healthcare system,” Dr. Shivangi said in remarks made to delegates at the recently held Pravasi Bharatya Diwas in Indore. During the recent Covid catastrophe, AAPI provided extensive support to India raising more than US$ 5 millions that were used to procure and provide Oxygen Concentrators, Ventilators, High Flow Oxygen and setting up dozens of Oxygen plants, and Chemiluminescence ImmunoAnalyzers (CLIA). The AAPI also adopted several villages and closely coordinated the overall development by providing primary care and preventive medicine to dozens of rural villages across India. A close friend of the Bush family, Dr. Shivangi was instrumental in lobbying for the first Diwali celebration in the White House and for President George W. Bush to make his trip to India. He had accompanied President Bill Clinton during his historic visit to India. The prominent Indian origin Physician also played a critical role during the United States-Indian Civilian Nuclear Agreement, seen as a landmark deal of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and George Bush tenures. Dr. Shivangi maintained that health care across the world is regarded as an important determinant in promoting the general, physical, mental, and social well-being of people around the world and can contribute to a significant part of a country’s economy, development, and industrialization when efficiently improving human health and providing access to affordable highquality health care. “India has made striking progress in health standards in the postindependence era. The sustained efforts to control the country’s population & the political will to march towards the SDG in health will help India to make a significant impact in the international health sector”, he said. Dr. Shivangi, an obstetrician/gynecologist, has been elected by a US state Republican Party as a full delegate to the National Convention. He is one of the top fund-raisers in Mississipi state for the Republican Party. Besides being a politician by choice, the medical practitioner is also the first Indian to be on the American Medical Association, the apex law making body. Dr. Sampat Shivangi was awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas Sanman in 2016 in Bengaluru by the then President Pranab Mukhejee. He was awarded the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor in New York in 2008. Diaspora has role in promoting healthcare ecosystem during Amritkaal… Dr. Sampat Shivangi Dr. Sampat Shivangi with Minister of Health Mansukh Mandaviya 7 Monday, 6 February, 2023 New India Abroad India’s Republic Day celebrated at Vaishnav Temple of New York BHAVANA P The first traditional Pashtimargiya temple in North America, The Vaishnav Temple of New York (VTNY), along with the The Cajani Sam of New York (CSNY) celebrated 74th Republic Day of India, with almost 300 Indian “Desh Bhakts” on January 29, 2023. Founded by the late Dr. Arvind Shah, in 1986, VTNY along with the Indian community have been celebrating India’s Republic Day for more than 30 years. Dr. Bobby Kalotee, chairman of the Nassau County Commission on Human Rights, and Ragini Srivastava, Town Clerk of the Town of North Hempstead, in Nassau County, New York, were the event’s chief guests. Dr. Pratix Shroff and his family, who are devout Vaishnavs, sponsored the event. Famous for both general and cosmetic dentistry, Shroff has for long supported VTNY. The celebration began with a parade of the Indian and American flags, in which all the dignitaries, trustees, executive committee members, and other Indians from VTNY and CSNY participated. Everyone was welcomed by Kamat Madaria, secretary of VTNY. Champakbhai Parikh and his sons Bharathbhai Parikh Charpakhat led the flag hoisting event, which has been conducted for more than 20 years, while all the senior members of VTNY and CSNY joined on the stage with the dignitaries. Avantika Shah sung the American National Anthem, which was followed by the Vande Mataram, flag hoisting by dignitaries, Rashtra Dwaj salami, and everyone singing India’s National Anthem. The community members were then honoured for their altruistic contribution by Kalotre and Srivastava. The festivities also included patriotic song dance performances by young kids and teenagers from the community. The celebration grandly commenced with a parade of the Indian and American flags, which recorded participation from the dignitaries, trustees, and executive committee members. As part of India’s commitment to the idea that “the world is a family,” BMVSS (Jaipur Foot), which is the largest lower limb rehabilitation facility, aims to help people worldwide. Bobby Kalotee and Ragini Srivastava presented Citation to Mrs. and Mr. Jignesh Pratix Shroff, addressing the gathering, as the events sponsor. 74th Republic Day Flag Hosting at Vaishnav Temple of New York. Images - Provided Jaipur Foot camp inaugurated in Beirut STAFF REPORTER On the occasion of India’s 74th Republic Day, the Jaipur Foot artificial limb fitment camp was launched in Beirut, the capital of Lebanon at the Rafik Hariri University Hospital. Organized by Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayati (BMVSS), Jaipur, under the Indian Ministry of External Affairs’ “India for Humanity” initiative, the camp was was attended by Dr. Jihad Saadeh, chairman of the Rafik Hariri University Hospital, Colonel Nadim Kakoun, who represented the Lebanese Armed Forces, and Joseph El Helo, Minister of Public Health. The Elite Center of Culture and Education Tripoli, Dar El Handassa, El Khalil Foundation, and Rotary club were among the partner associations represented at the inauguration ceremony. Speaking on the occassion, Joseph El Helo commended the Indian government’s efforts and thanked it for supporting the handicapped people of Lebanon. He hoped that this partnership would persist. Dr. Jihad Saadeh emphasized the necessity of such programmes in Lebanon and recognized the efforts of the Government of India and the Jaipur Foot organization. Charge d’Affaires Sandeep Grover stressed on the value that India places on its long-standing relations with Lebanon and expressed his happiness that the inaugural Jaipur Foot camp was launched on India’s Republic Day, a day of special significance. According to D R Mehta, the founder and chief patron of BMVSS the ‘India for Humanity’ campaign was inaugurated in 2018 to mark Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birthday by late External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayati (BMVSS) in the Jaipur foot camp Images - BMVSS A platform for the voice of next generation Indian Americans Bringing you the Latest from Indian communities around the world New India Abroad thenewindiaabroad NewIndAbroad New India Abroad Email [email protected] Website www.NewIndiaAbroad.Com subscribe now

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 5 FIA New England and IAFPE celebrate Women’s Day and Holi STAFF REPORTER The Federation of Indian Associations - New England (FIANE) and the Indian American Forum for Political Education (IAFPE) hosted joint International Women’s Day as well as Holi celebrations at the Northborough Senior Center, Massachusetts. The event was attended by over 125 senior citizens and special guest Massachusetts Senator Mike Moore. IAFPE members and FIA-NE’s team sponsored lunch for the seniors and felicitated the women with roses and tiaras during the event. In his address, Senator Moore conveyed his appreciation of contributions by women in society and his best wishes on the International Women’s Day, a news release noted. A panel discussion featuring accomplished women including Monnie Malhotra, Harvard trained Neurologist who held medical faculty positions at Tufts and Brown University, Meghan Kilcoyne, Massachusetts State Representative; Sonali Doshi, founder of “Rahat” a charity engaged in pandemic relief; and Pratima Penumarthy, founder of Volunteering for Seniors was hosted by Mukta Munjal. At the conclusion of the event, attendees also took part in Holi festivities. Images- FIA Policy expert Tanden has bright track record as a professional as she worked with former US President Clinton’s presidential campaign in 1992, President Obama’s administration, and currently working with President Biden. Neera Tanden shares perspective on political career at Yale VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndian-American Neera Tanden, senior advisor to President Biden spoke about her life in politics at an event hosted by Yale College Democrats, Yale’s South Asian Society and The Politic at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. A Yale law graduate, Tanden spoke about how politics has changed since she began her career as well as the importance of role models and representation, a Yale news report said. Born to Indian immigrants, Tanden began her political career volunteering on Michael Dukakis’ presidential campaign in 1988. Since then she has been closely associated with top Democrat leadership, and has played a key roles in Bill Clinton’s campaign in 1992 and Hillary Clinton’s campaign for the presidency in 2016. Prior to taking on the role as senior advisor to President Biden, Tanden worked in former President Barack Obama’s administration. She also founded the Center for American Progress in 2003, later serving as its president and CEO in 2011. Speaking about the significance of the event, copresident of SAS Kirin Mueller said, “As a South Asian person and someone who is interested in politics, it was amazing to hear from her as someone who has had this experience. I didn’t grow up with a lot of role models in politics and law.” Logan George, who attended the event, shared with the Yale News “I was inspired to see a woman of color working towards progressive change and enjoyed her unapologetic attitude about fighting against people who create barriers for that change.” In a statement, the organizers of the event commented, “Tanden has forged such an important path in politics, and we are all inspired by her impressive career, her advocacy for progressive policies, and her dedication to helping Democratic presidents improve conditions for American families — all while breaking down barriers for IndianAmerican women interested in public service.” Neera Tanden at Yale University. Image - Yale News

Arnav Dalmia and Shivani Jain. Garg was recognized for increasing public engagement with science and Mathematician Shah for her dedication to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in Mathematics. [email protected] AAAS recognizes Indian Americans for contribution to science and society VIKAL SAMDARIYA Two Indian Americans Neil Garg, and Nagambal Shah along with six others were selected as winners of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Awards 2023 in eight categories that recognize scientists, engineers, innovators and public servants for their contributions to science and society. A distinguished professor and department chair of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of California, Los Angeles, Garg is the recipient of the 2023 AAAS Mani L. Bhaumik Award, which recognizes scientists and engineers who demonstrate excellence in their contribution to public engagement with science, according to a statement by AAAS. He was recognised for the “creative and inspiring tools” he has developed to meaningfully increase public engagement with science, according to the award selection committee. Reacting to the news, Garg said, “I am especially grateful to AAAS and the visionary scientist and philanthropist Dr Bhaumik for recognizing the importance of public engagement in the sciences.” Nagambal Shah, professor emerita at Spelman College, a historically Black women’s college, was selected as the recipient of the 2023 AAAS Lifetime Mentor Award. The award recognises Shah’s career-long dedication to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in mathematics through both directly mentoring students and pioneering initiatives to make the field of mathematics and statistics more inclusive. Mathematician Shah said, “I am so proud and humbled to receive this unique award — thank you, AAAS.” Among the winners was Uma Shankar Singh, an Indian plant pathologist who received the 2023 AAAS David and Betty Hamburg Award for Science Diplomacy for work on seed exchange agreements in Southeast and South Asia. On the selection, Singh, who is currently the Asia & Africa Advisor for Research and Partnerships at International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) said “This recognition of Seeds Without Borders by AAAS will go a long way in expanding agreements like this to cover more countries—particularly in Africa and the Pacific.” In eight categories of awards, six of the awards include a prize of US$5,000, while the AAAS David and Betty Hamburg Award for Science Diplomacy awards the winning individual or team US$10,000 and the AAAS Newcomb Cleveland Prize awards the winning individual or team US$25,00, AAAS shared. Neil Garg, professor and department chair of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of California. Image - Harvard Nagambal Shah, professor emerita at Spelman College ataward Ceremony. Image - AAAS Indian-American couple named winners of UChicago Alumni award STAFF REPORTER I ndian-American couple Arnav Dalmia and Shivani Jain were named winners of the Early Career Achievement Award by The University of Chicago Alumni Association and the Alumni Board of the 2023 Alumni Awards. Dalmia and Jain were awarded Early Career Achievement Award to demonstrate outstanding achievements in the business domain, under this category, winners were selected from any field by alumni ages 40 and younger, according to the Chicago University Press. Dalmia with his wife Shivani Jain co-founded Cubii, a startup that is passionate about making wellness approachable for all ages, abilities and lifestyles. Cubii was included in Inc. 500’s Fastest Growing Companies in the USA for two consecutive years (2019 and 2020) and in Deloitte’s Top 500 Fastest Growing Companies in the US (2020), and it was ranked second in Inc. Magazine’s Top Fastest Growing Companies in Chicago (2020). In 2020 Cubii partnered with Gridiron, a private equity firm, to further scale and grow the business, the University Press added. The 2023 Alumni Awards include The Alumni Medal, The Professional Achievement Award recipients, The Early Career Achievement Award, The Alumni Service Awards and Alumni Service Medal, according to the University. Image - The University of Chicago 6 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023

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8 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 Prasad specially received praise for being available in person at the airports for granting visas to travelers during the pandemic while risking his safety. FIA honors Consul Vijay Shankar Prasad at farewell BHAVANA P The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) recently honoured Consul (Visa & Attestation) Vijay Shankar Prasad of the Indian Consulate in New York for his exemplary service during a farewell event held at the Akbar Restaurant in Edison, New Jersey. Prominent Indian American community leaders, attended the event during which FIA chairman Ankur Vaidya praised Prasad and his colleagues for their work during the COVID lockdown, when the Indian Consulate in New York was the only place in the United States where emergency visas were provided He also lauded the consulate staff for their role in the Government of India’s Vande Bharat campaign, which was initiated in May 2020 to repatriate Indian residents stuck abroad owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Past president of FIA and chairman of the Bihar Association, Alok Kumar, emphasized the significance of acknowledging the risks and sacrifices Prasad and the NY Consulate team made throughout the pandemic to continue providing essential services to vulnerable tourists. Present at the occasion, along with Alok Kumar and Ankur Vaidya were TV ASIA chairman H.R. Shah, FIA’s executive vice president Dr. Avinash Gupta, Jt. vice president Smita Miki Patel, general secretary Nishi Dhami, past president and member of the board of trustees Srujal Parikh, Bipin Patel, Jayesh Patel, Dipak Patel, and Kanubhai Chauhan. The press release highlighted the close collaboration between the FIA and the Indian Consulate, the complimentary consular services offered by the NY Indian Consulate, and Prasad and his team’s regular weekend trips to the ten East Coast states that the Indian Consulate in New York serves to ensure that the communities there received services at their doorstep. Prasad was felicitated during the farewell. Images - FIA FIA committee members felicitating Vijay Shankar Prasad to recognize his exemplary service during his tenure in New York. Image : FIA Indian restaurant in NYC launches millets menu STAFF REPORTER S aar, an Indian restaurant owned by Michelin Starred chef Hemant Kumar launched a millets menu to commemorate International Year of Millets. RANA (Rajasthan Association of North America) president Prem Bhandari and the Counsul General of India Randhir Jaiswal launched the tasting menu in the presence of Deputy Counsul General of India Dr. Varun Zeff, president of New York Chapter of AIA Harish Thakkar, RANA Board Member Chandra Sukhwal, Ashok Pandey, Atul Kothari and others. The menu included millets dosa, salad and pudding. Saar will be the first restaurant in New York to serve a millets based menu. Diginitaries who attended the event. CGI of India in New York Randhir Jaiswal. Images -Twitter/@IndiainNewYork

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 9 Srinivasan serves on the Board of George Washington University’s Heart and Vascular Institute Ned Price, who assumed office on January 20, 2021, is stepping down from his post. Vedant Patel takes over as US State Dept interim spokesperson Kannan Srinivasan announces candidacy for Virginia legislature Indian-origin professor sues US College for discrimination STAFF REPORTER I ndian-origin Lakshmi Balachandra, an associate professor of entrepreneurship at Babson College’s Wellesley Business School, Massachusetts filed a gender discrimination lawsuit in the US District Court in Boston against the institution. According to a Boston Globe report the lawsuit alleges that Balachandra was subjected to gender and racial discrimination at the institution. “Babson favours white and male faculty and predominantly reserves awards and privileges for them,” the complaint filed in the court reads. Balachandra claimed that she lost career opportunities and faced economic losses because of maltreatment and the administration’s dereliction in the investigation. Andrew Corbett, a professor and former chair of the college’s entrepreneurship division, told the Boston Globe that Balachandra joined Babson’s in 2012 and earned her tenure in 2019. According to the official, Balachandra was one of the primary direct perpetrators of the discriminatory work environment. According to Balachandra, Corbett only allowed her to teach required courses in entrepreneurship despite her requests to teach electives. She had previously handled classes at MIT Sloan School of Management and Harvard Business School. Balachandra also accused Corbett of often losing his temper with her and other female colleagues. She is currently on leave for a fellowship at the National Science Foundation. VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndian- American Democrat Kannan Srinivasan, a senior finance professional announced his candidacy for the 26th District of the Virginia House of Delegates with 20 major endorsements and the support of elected officials and residents across the district. India-born Srinivasan, who currently serves as vice-chair of the Virginia State Medicaid Board, took to Twitter to announce his bid for the Virginia House of Delegates. “It is with immense pride that I declare my candidacy to represent Loudoun County, which has been my home for a quarter century.” “I will fight for our public schools, stand up for gun safety, and protect abortion rights. I look forward to earning your support,” Kannan’s election manifesto read. Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton and Loudoun County Board of Supervisors chair Phyllis Randall and other dignitaries have endorsed Srinivasan. Lauding Kannan’s announcement, Randall said “Kannan Srinivasan has been a public servant for years.I enthusiastically endorse his candidacy for Virginia State Delegate and will do all I can to help him become a member of the Virginia General Assembly.” An alumnus of the Sorensen Institute of Political Leadership at the University of Virginia and the University of Madras, Srinivasan served as the treasurer of Loudoun County Democratic Committee (LCDC) for three terms, most recently as its finance chair. He has served as secretary of the Democratic Asian Americans of Virginia for two terms, his profile highlights. Born to school teachers, Srinivasan came to Virginia in 1993 and has lived in Loudoun County with his wife Jayashree for nearly 25 years. MADHU BALAJI I ndian American Vedant Patel has been appointed as the US State Department interim Spokesperson in place of Ned Price who is stepping down from his position, Antony J Blinken, State Secretary said in a statement. According to media reports, Vedant Patel, Deputy Spokesperson, will be appointed as the successor till a new spokesperson is appointed. Price assumed office on January 20, 2021. The State Department said in its statement that Price helped the US government defend and promote press freedom around the globe and modeled the transparency and openness we advocate for in other countries. “His contributions will benefit the Department long after his service,” the Department added. Cherishing the time spent together, Patel shared a farewell note on Twitter, “In awe of his unflappability, his big heart, his deep understanding of foreign policy, his fierce loyalty to the State Department and his team.” Who is Vedant Patel? Indian American Vedant Patel was born in Gujarat. He graduated from the University of California, Riverside, and received MBA from the University of Florida. Patel has served as US President Joe Biden’s assistant press secretary and spokesperson before becoming the US State Department’s deputy spokesperson. He has also drafted the incoming administration’s messaging and image as the Presidential Inaugural Committee’s spokesperson. US State Department interim Spokesperson Vedant Patel Image: Twitter Indian- American Democrat Kannan Srinivasan. Image - Twitter/Kannan Srinivasan

10 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) has a higher population of South Asians than the American city of Seattle. AVANI ACHARYA F ollowing Seattle city council’s decision to ban caste discrimination last month, Toronto’s school board has become the first Canadian authority to recognise that caste discrimination exists in schools and has voted in favor of creating a framework to address the issue. According to media reports, the motion introduced by Toronto District School Board (TDSB) trustee Yalini Rajakulasingam to recognise caste discrimination in the city’s schools, was supported by sixteen trustees while five voted against it. Speaking in favour of the motion, Rajakulasingam said as quoted by The Globe and the Mail,“This motion is not about division, it’s about creating healing and empowering communities and providing them safer schools that students deserve.” Referring to the historic Seattle Council vote, the Toronto-based classical dancer trained in Bharatanatyam added, “In Seattle, 4 per cent of the community identify as South Asian. At the TDSB, we are at 22 per cent.” The motion, seconded by trustee Anu Sriskandarajah, has reportedly received letters of support from parents and from more than 100 advocacy groups. Lauding Rajakulasingam’s advocacy on the matter, Equality labs is a Dalit civil rights organization, tweeted, “Yalini is Canada’s first Caste-opressesd school board trustee and she courageously came out as part of this motion. She faced terrorism smears, bigotry, gaslighting and violence.” The motion has also met with criticism from organization like the Canadian Organization for Hindu Heritage Education, who describe the motion as “Hinduphobic” and targeting the Hindu Faith. After Seattle, caste debate in Toronto TDSB trustee Yalini Rajakulasingam Image - Twitter Image - Wikimedia

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 11 Subramanian, born to Indian immigrants, is also the first South Asian Judge to serve on this bench. Tejal Mehta was unanimously chosen and sworn in by Justice Stacey Fortes, Chief Justice of the District Court, after serving as an associate justice with the same court. Tejal Mehta named first Justice of US district court BHAVANA P Tejal Mehta, an IndianAmerican woman judge, took oath as the first Justice of Ayer district court in Massachusetts. She pledged to have a significant impact on the community and treat people with kindness. She was unanimously chosen and sworn in by Judge Stacey Fortes, Chief Justice of the District Court as reported by the Lowell Sun. She had previously served as an Associate Justice with the same court. “As a lawyer, you can help people, but you can only help them to a point”, Mehta said, adding that “As a judge, you can do so much more and get to the root of issues and talk to people in such a way that gets through to them.” “I have seen the same hopes and despair in every court I have sat in as a traveling judge”, Mehta, who started her career in civil work, said. “But when you are the first Justice, then you can really get to know the community and make a real impact,” she said. Judge Margaret Guzman, who had served as the first Justice of the Ayer District Court for five years, commended the appointment of Mehta as the court’s first Justice, calling her as someone “who will preserve the pattern of treating people fairly”. She makes some pretty difficult decisions, Ms. Guzman added. Members of Mehta’s family including her 14-year-old daughter Mena Sheth and her husband Ketan Sheth were present on the occasion. Mena, one of the ceremony speakers, quoted US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) when talking about her mother, “Fight for things you care about but do so in a way that will lead others to join you,” and continued, “My mom is the exact embodiment of this quote. Through her kindness and outgoing personality, she encourages people to share her understanding of the world. Being a judge has given her the ability to see and do what’s best and I can’t think of anyone better to have that responsibility.” Mehta, a Concord resident, began her career in civil work before switching to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, where she worked for more than ten years as a prosecutor. She then opened her own firm and worked as a public defender before aiming to become a circuit judge. Image - LowellSun Sitaraman will collaborate with multiple peers within Vanderbilt Law School and the university with his experience in politics and public policy. Ganesh Sitaraman to lead Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator STAFF REPORTER I ndian American professor Ganesh Sitaraman will lead the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator for Political Economy and Regulation at Vanderbilt University to bolster innovative research and education. The New York Alumni Chancellor’s Chair at Vanderbilt Law School, Sitaraman joined Vanderbilt in 2011. In his new role, Sitaraman is responsible for collaborating with multiple peers within Vanderbilt Law School and the university with his experience in politics and public policy. A Harvard graduate, Sitaraman serves on the Administrative Conference of the US, the FAA’s Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee and the boards of The American Prospect and the American Constitution Society. He has authored or co-authored five books and was a senior advisor to Senator Elizabeth Warren during her presidential campaign and her senior counsel in the US Senate. “We plan to cultivate, grow and spread innovative research and policy ideas—and at a rapid pace that aligns with the urgency of the challenges we face,” Sitaraman said adding that he was honored to lead the accelerator program. Provost C. Cybele Raver said, “He will bring tremendous expertise in leading this innovative new effort to solve some of the most important policy challenges of our time.” Ganesh Sitaraman Image: Twitter Arun Subramanian creates history as NY district court judge MADHU BALAJI I ndian American attorney Arun Subramanian has been appointed as the Judge of the Manhattan Federal District Court of New York, a tweet by the Senate Judiciary Committee revealed. The Senate confirmed the nomination by a vote of 58 against 37 on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. “He’s been directly engaged in every aspect of civil litigation and has clerked at every level of the federal judiciary,” the Committee said of Subramanian. Born to Indian immigrants, Subramanian is also the first South Asian Judge to serve on this bench. US President Joe Biden announced his nomination for the US District Court for the Southern District of New York in September 2022. Subramanian served as executive articles editor for the Columbia Law Review and as a law clerk for Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Supreme Court of the US from 2006 to 2007. At present, he is a partner at Susman Godfrey LLP in New York, where he has worked since 2007. He also serves as chairperson of Susman Godfrey’s 2022 Pro Bono Committee and is a longtime director of the Columbia Law Review. Arun Subramanian Image: Twitter

Politician Nikki Haley “My parents loved that when they came to America, if you worked hard, the only things that could stop you were the limits you placed on yourself.” Diaspora Talks Actor Archie Panjabi “I have always let the lack of Indian actors in the industry drive me, not hold me back. I remember an agent in L.A. telling me a few years ago that an Indian actor wouldn’t ever make it in Hollywood, but my ethnicity has helped me.” EDITORIAL I t has been a long wait of more than two years and finally there seems to be light at the end of tunnel; but not quite time to uncork the champagne bottles some would still insist. The former Mayor of Los Angeles, Eric Garcetti, may not be known to many Indians but the officialdom in both Washington and New Delhi would be relieved when an American Ambassador is finally in place and in a country that is often touted as a key strategic partner. No matter what the Biden administration may say about having to wait for a process to play out, questions will undoubtedly linger if the White House could have done something to accelerate the nomination instead of leaving Garcetti along with some twenty other envoys who are pending before the Senate Committee. And the White House should have long known that the Senate was not going to be having a recess that had nothing to do with Garcetti; rather having the Chamber gaveled in and out every three days to prevent what was seen as an abuse of a process by the Executive. Precious time has been lost ;the blame game is not going to help and there is not much time left in the first Biden administration. The security environment of the Indo Pacific is not something that many players in the region will see as comforting, especially the simmering tensions in East Asia, the implications of the looming crisis in Pakistan and South Asia and the continuing war in the Ukraine have all called into question the role of the United States. The prospect of Washington and Beijing escalating their verbal shouting match into a physical show of force is quite frightening especially as China gets tougher on Taiwan. And the prospect of Russia and China getting closer in the aftermath of the Ukraine war including in the possibility of the East Asian communist giant replenishing Russian arms inventory is not exactly seen as a stabilizing influence in geo-politics. And all these have brought into sharper focus the absence of an American Ambassador in India. Garcetti cleared the Senate Foreign Relations Committee last week by a 13 to 8 margin with two Republicans joining Democrats but still the full Senate will have to vote on the nomination. On the face of it there seems to be little trouble for the nominee; but still a few Republicans and Democrats seem to have reservations, not on Garcetti himself but in the fashion he had dealt with allegations against one of his top aides. Recently in placing a hold Florida Senator Marco Rubio said “I will not turn a blind eye to these absurd nominations, which will hasten America’s decline…”. There is no doubt that United States-India relations have travelled considerable distance since the time President Bill Clinton visited in 2000. Still there is a long way to go, over and beyond the Howdy Modi and Namaste Trump shows. Garcetti may not be able to put back issuance of visas and a trade deal at the snap of a finger; or for that matter not be seen as an India or South Asia hand except for studying Hindi and Urdu in college for a year. But it sure helps to have a person who can dial the Oval Office from his desk in New Delhi. WAITING FOR MR. ERIC GARCETTI 12 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 Both Washington and New Delhi would be relieved when an American Ambassador is finally in place and in a country that is often touted as a key strategic partner. Garcetti clears Senate Foreign Relations Committee STAFF REPORTER The Biden White House has heaved a sigh of relief as its Ambassador nominee to India, Eric Garcetti, finally cleared the Senate Foreign Relations Committee but not before two Republican Senators joined their Democratic colleagues to push a 13 to 8 margin in the end. The nomination of Garcetti has been with the Senate since the time President Joe Biden came to the Oval Office in 2021 but came to be bogged down for two years on allegations that the former Mayor of Los Angeles had not handled sexual allegations against a staffer properly. When the 118th Congress convened this January President Biden once again re-nominated Garcetti for the position. Biden could not force a recess appointment as Republicans legislatively manoeuvred to make sure that the Senate never did have a “recess”. Even now while some maintain that Garcetti may have cleared the biggest hurdle and could have enough votes in the full Senate, some maintain that the nomination could still be blocked by individual Senators. The date for the final full Senate vote is yet to be scheduled. Political analysts have been saying for quite sometime that having the top envoy’s position vacant in New Delhi was not in the best interests of Washington especially at a time when bilateral relations were going through an uptick in spite of challenges. But this was a process on which New Delhi had very little hold over, if any. “Simply put, the United States needs a confirmed ambassador in India … we certainly hope that the action that the Senate took today foretells additional action. US needs a confirmed Ambassador in India... There is no other country around the world that would put itself in a position to have a vacancy open in a strategically important and valuable place like India for two-plus years,” said State Department Spokesman Ned Price. “When Secretary (of State Antony) Blinken was in New Delhi last week, much of the breadth and the depth of that relationship was on full display. Our embassy staff, our mission India deserves to have a Senate-confirmed ambassador who is, again with the consent of the Senate, a representative of not only the Secretary of State, but also the president of the United States,” Price added. Kenneth Juster was the last US Ambassador to India. He stepped down from his post in 2021 after the Biden administration came into power. The date for the final full Senate vote is yet to be scheduled. Image - Wikimedia

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 13 The research study seeks to break down the notion that people identifying as being part of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand Researchers explore diversity within New Zealand’s Indian diaspora VIKAL SAMDARIYA Two academicians from Massey University, associate professors Sita Venkateswar and Dr Vicky Walters will work on a study to explore the ways in which people identify themselves as Indian and what that means in practice in a location far from the original context in Aotearoa, New Zealand. In their endeavor to reveal the Indian approach to carrying their identity in a different location, the associate professors of the School of People, Environment and Planning have spent the past 18 months laying the groundwork for the survey for their study, which will be followed by a series of in-depth personal interviews, according to a news release. The study aims to uncover internal nuances of how the Indian Diaspora in a designated location interacts and engages among themselves. “The survey will explore the ways in which people identify themselves as Indian and what that means in practice in a location far from the original context,” according to a document on the study. In this context, professor Venkateswarsaid “As we know, India is a very diverse country, and that diversity is also reflected in the diaspora. How does that play out in terms of their daily lives with family and community? What does community mean in this context?”. On the scope of the study, professor Walters noted “We are hoping to capture the diversity and everyday lives of the Indian diaspora across generations, across gender, across different kinds of living arrangements, in terms of the respondents’ geographical affiliations to different parts of India whilerecognising that there is religious and faith-based diversity as well as caste diversity.” Venkateswar describes the survey as the ‘tip of the iceberg’, saying the next stage of personal interviews will be much more in-depth and longer. According to a statement in the study, the research seeks to break down the notion that people identifying as being part of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand are a homogeneous group sharing similar values, practices, beliefs and ways of being in the world. As per the study plan, once the survey results have been analysed and written, the plan is to create a series of storyboards – small graphic stories that can be communicated back to the Indian diaspora and the wider community. Both academics share an India connection, sociologist Walters has travelled frequently to India to conduct research on various subjects and Mumbai-bornanthropologist Venkateswar is herself a first-generation Indian who migrated to New Zealand 26 years ago to take up her position at Massey. Associate Professor Sita Venkateswar (left) and Dr Vicky Walters are leading the research. Image - Massey University (Image - Twitter @/Deanauppal) British Indian receives “Point of Light” award on Women’s Day BHAVANA P On the occasion of International Women’s day, UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak presented the Points of Light awards to four remarkable individuals who inspired others and made a difference in their communities. Among the 4 recipients, was Deana Uppal, a London-based British Indian businesswoman, documentary filmmaker, and Bollywood actor who founded the “DKU Kindness Diaries” organization. Through weekly campaigns in donating food and medicine, the organization has helped thousands of underprivileged families in India. Speaking at the event, Sunak said “I know the phenomenal work that goes into running a business. I too know from watching my mum running our family pharmacy, the huge sacrifices that are made. It takes guts, stamina and perseverance.” The Indian-origin PM continued, “You do an amazing job. You create jobs. You enrich our country. And together, you demonstrate the power of women in business – with the huge amount of social good that you do…” Top female-run small businesses from all around the UK, including DeMoo, a clothing company run by Indian-origin women put up a display at the event. The brand upcycles pre-loved clothes into unique hand-finished pieces. Saskia Patel, India Taylor-Smith and Jess Patel, co-founders of DeMoo said, “The energy in the room was infectious. To be surrounded by so many remarkable female business women was incredibly uplifting. A memory we will never forget.”

14 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 NISAR will be able to collect measurements day and night, in all weather conditions, and its trove of data will help researchers better understand a broad range of Earth science topics, including landslides, groundwater loss, and the carbon cycle. NASA-ISRO science instruments arrive in India VIKAL SAMDARIYA I n a significant development, two NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) systems arrived at Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s U R Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru, India ahead of its 2024 launch. The science payload of two radar systems, one built by NASA and the other by the ISRO, completed the journey by a C-17 heavy lift aircraft of the US Air Force from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California to Bengaluru. The advanced radar system, launched as part of a NASA science mission, will combine with the satellite’s body, or bus, and be made to run through tests in advance of its three-year mission, an official statement from JPL said. As part of the mission, NISAR is designed to observe nearly all of Earth’s land and ice surfaces twice every 12 days, measuring movements in extremely fine detail, JPL mentioned. Once in operation, the allweather-enabled mission will survey forests and agricultural regions to help scientists understand carbon exchange between plants and the atmosphere, the US space agency explained. Moreover, it will help the scientists study natural hazards, melting sea ice, groundwater supply, and more. According to the released statement, NISAR’s payload will be the maximum and it will feature the largest-ever radar antenna of its kind: a drum-shaped, wire mesh reflector nearly 40 feet (12 meters) in diameter that will extend from a 30- foot (9-meter) boom. According to shared specifications by JPL, the mission’s science instruments consist of L- and S-band radar so named to indicate the wavelengths of their signals. ISRO built the S-band radar, which it shipped to JPL in March 2021. Engineers spent much of the last two years integrating the instrument with the JPL-built L-band system and then conducting tests to verify whether they work well together. The next time the satellite is airborne will be aboard ISRO’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-II rocket, which is set to lift off in 2024 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre on India’s southeastern coast and deliver NISAR into a nearpolar Earth orbit, JPL disclosed. The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) science instrument payload is unloaded from a cargo plane shortly after arriving in Bengaluru, India, on March 6. At ISRO’s U R Rao Satellite Centre, it will be combined with the NISAR satellite body in p... Credit: ISRO. Image Source - JPL

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 15 This is the Secretary’s inaugural visit to India. Gina Raimondo meets Indian Ministers; attends bilateral Commercial Dialogue 2023 STAFF REPORTER US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo visited New Delhi, India from March 7, 2023, to March 10, 2023, to participate in the India-US bilateral Commercial Dialogue 2023. She led a high-level Business delegation of US CEOs for the CEO Forum. In New Delhi, Raimondo met Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal at the IndiaUS Commercial Dialogue held on March 10, 2023, at Vanjiya Bhawan, New Delhi. The Ministers, according to a press release, recognized that small businesses and entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the US and Indian economies and there is need to facilitate collaboration between the SMEs of the two countries to foster innovation ecosystems that facilitate their post-pandemic economic recovery and growth. They announced several programs, including the launch of “strategic trade dialogue” to address export controls, explore ways of enhancing high technology commerce, and facilitate technology transfer between the two countries. Raimondo also met Indian Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), semiconductors, and supply chain resilience. Further, Raimondo held talks with Indian National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval, and discussed commercial relationship and opportunities to deepen linkages between two economies. She also met with Indian Minister of Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw. US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo Image: Twitter Biden appoints two Indian Americans to Advisory Committee STAFF REPORTER US President Joe Biden named two IndianAmerican CEOs, Revathi Advaithi and Manish Bapna to the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations along with 12 other individuals on March 10, 2023. According to a White House statement the advisory committee provides overall policy advice to the United States Trade Representative on matters of development, implementation, and administration of the US trade policy. A Birla Institute of Technology and Science graduate, Advaithi is the chief executive officer of Flex, the global manufacturing partner of choice that helps a diverse customer base design and build products to improve the world. Prior to Flex, Advaithi was president and chief operating officer of the electrical sector business at Eaton. Named as one of Business Today’s Most Powerful Women in India, she is a cochair of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Advanced Manufacturing CEO Community and is a part of the WEF Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders. Additionally, she serves on the board of directors of Uber and Catalyst.org.An economist, Manish Bapna is the president and CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). During his 25- year career, Bapna’s leadership roles have focused on tackling the root causes of poverty and climate change with strategies that are equitable, durable, and scalable, the White House said. Harvard alumnus, Bapna started at McKinsey & Company and the World Bank before pursuing a career in advocacy at the Bank Information Center. He has master’s degrees in Business and Political and Economic Development from Harvard University and a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from MIT. Chief Executive Officer of Flex, Revathi Advaithi President and CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Manish Bapna. India, US sign deal on semiconductor innovation ecosystems VIKAL SAMDARIYA I n a move to further strengthen and expand bilateral trade and commerce ties between the US and India, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on establishing a semiconductor supply chain and innovation partnership under the framework of India – US Commercial Dialogue was signed between the two countries at New Delhi on March 10, 2023. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and the US Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo signed the deal, which seeks to establish a collaborative mechanism between the two governments on semiconductor supply chain resiliency and diversification in view of the US’s CHIPS and Science Act and India’s Semiconductor Mission. On signing the deal with her counterpart, Secretary Raimondo tweeted, “Today, Minister @PiyushGoyal and I signed a Memorandum of Understanding on semiconductors and electronics supply chains. As commerce embarks on the implementation of CHIPS, we look forward to identifying further avenues for US-India cooperation when it comes to semiconductors.” Union Minister Goyal too took to Twitter to respond “Absolutely! India looks forward to working with the US in harnessing the immense opportunities that the semiconductor sector offers.” According to an official statement the deal aims to combine the strengths of both countries and facilitate commercial opportunities and development of semiconductor innovation ecosystems. It will be done through “discussions on various aspects of the semiconductor value chain. The MoU envisages mutually beneficial R&D, talent and skill development,” the official statement noted. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and the US Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo inked deal on bilateral partnership on semiconductor innovation domain. Image - PIB

16 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 The issue was discussed with the Australian prime minister as he arrived in Delhi after concluding his engagements in Ahmedabad and Mumbai during his three-day trip. PM Modi takes up temple attacks with Australian PM BHAVANA P I n view of the rise in attacks against Hindu places of worship and growing Hinduphobia in Australia, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought up the issue with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese during their bilateral talks. Speaking to the media after their meeting, Modi described the incidents as worrisome and expressed regret over their frequency. “I conveyed these feelings and concerns to Prime Minister Albanese and he has assured me that the safety of the Indian community is of special priority for him,” Modi said in the presence of the Australian prime minister. “Our teams will be in regular contact on this matter, and will cooperate as much as possible,” he added noting that the Albanese government has taken serious note of the matter. Other matters that were discussed during the meeting include the Indo-Pacific maritime security situation, mutual cooperation to develop reliable and strong global supply chains and the bilateral trade agreements. The Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement was inked between Australia and India last year (ECTA). That was the first such agreement India had made with a developed nation in ten years. A much more significant Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), however, has remained inactive for more than ten years. “We also agreed on an early conclusion of our ambitious Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement and I am hopeful that we will be able to finalise it this year,” Albanese told reporters. Image - Twitter @/AlboMP India- Australia ECTA to advance bilateral trade and investment VIKAL SAMDARIYA The Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) signed between India and Australia will unlock the next level of potential in trade and investment, Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese said at the India-Australia CEO forum in Mumbai on March 9, 2023. Addressing the forum, the he expressed appreciation for the large turnout of Australian investors that came to India as well as for the key Indian business houses that participated. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal in his remarks at the forum noted, “The current goal of doubling the bilateral trade must be reset by the industries and CEOs present there as there was great potential to increase trade manifold between the two nations.” Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell pointed out that US$ 2.5 Billion worth of trade benefited from the lowering of tariffs arising from the ECTA agreement in January 2023 alone and reassured that this growth will continue to rise further. A four-year extension MoU was also signed between the Confederation of Indian Industry and the Business Council of Australia in the presence of PM Albanese. The Forum was organized by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry along with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in order to leverage the ever-growing trade and investment between the two countries. It was co-chaired by Mahindra Group MD & CEO, Dr Anish Shah and Macquarie Group MD & CEO, Shemara Wikramnayake, The event witnessed the participation of CEOs of leading companies from India and Australia across the sectors. PM of Australia, Anthony Albanese, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry and attendees of India-Australia CEO forum in Mumbai. Image - Twitter/ Anthony Albanese

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 17 l न्यू इंडि्ा अब्रॉि नेटवर्क भारती्य-अमेररकी दंपती और उनके शकिोर बेटे को िबशलन, ओहा्यो शसथत उनके घर पर मृत पा्या ग्या है। तीनों की मौत गोली लगने से हुई है। पुशलस मृत्यु का कारण पता लगाने में र्ुटी है। दंपती और उनके बेटे की हत्या हुई ्या ्यह सामूशहक आतमहत्या का मामला है, इसकी पडताल की र्ा रही है। मीशि्या ररपोटस्र में बता्या ग्या है शक भारती्य मूल के रार्न रार्ाराम (54), िांशतलता रार्न (51) और उनके बेटे अनीर रार्ाराम (19) के िव 18 र्नवरी को उनके घर में शमले। पररवार के एक र्ानने वाले ने उनकी खैरर्यत र्ानने के शलए फोन शक्या था लेशकन शकसी ने उठा्या नहीं। इसके बाद उसने पुशलस को इत्ला दी। पुशलस मौके पर पहुंची तो घर में िव शमले। पुशलस के खुशफ्या सूत्ों ने अपनी प्ारंशभक र्ांच में कहा है शक तीनों की मौत गोली लगने से हुई है। ्यह हत्या ्या सामूशहक आतमहत्या का मामला हो सकता है। अशधकारर्यों का कहना है शक उनहें इस बात के सुबूत नहीं शमले हैं शक घर में कोई र्बद्रसती घुसा हो। ्यह भी लग रहा है शक घर के अंदर िव कई शदनों से पडे हुए थे। रिेंकशलन काउंटी का्या्रल्य के ररकॉडस्र के आधार पर बता्या ग्या है शक रार्न पररवार उस घर में 1998 से रह रहा था। रार्न शसनशसनाटी शसथत टेक्ोसॉफट कॉपटोरेिन में इंर्ीशन्यर थे। उनकी पत्ी र्ेपी मॉग्रन चेस में काम करती थीं। बेटा अनीर ऑकसफोि्ट, ओशह्यो शम्यामी शवशवशवद्ाल्य के फाम्रर सकूल ऑफ शबर्नेस में अकाउंशटंग प्मुख था। शवशवशवद्ाल्य ने एक ब्यान में कहा है शक छात् अनीर की मृत्यु की खबर से संसथान के कम्रचारी और बेहद दुखी हैं। पररवार के पररशचत और दोसत भी घटना को लेकर व्यशथत हैं। िबशलन कॉफमैन हाई सकूल के एक शिक्षक एली शर्मरमैन ने मीशि्या से कहा शक वह अनीि को तब से र्ानती हैं र्ब वह कॉफमैन में पहले साल आ्या था। वह सामुदाश्यक सेवा संगठन से भी र्ुडा हुआ था। एक समझदार, िांत और मेहनती बच्ा था। वह पढाई में तो अचछा था ही, उसमें नेतृतव के भी गुण थे। अनीर के बचपन के एक दोसत गाबे शफनटा ने मीशि्या से कहा शक उनकी मुलाकात तब हुई थी, र्ब वे आठवीं कलास में थे। हाल ही में वह दुबई की ्यात्ा पर गए थे र्हां अनीर ने अपने एक िर पर र्ीत हाशसल की थी, वह िर था सकाईिाइशवंग का। अनीि ऐसा लडका था र्ो शर्ंदगी को पूरी तरह र्ीना चाहता था। उसकी और पररवार की मौत से हमें बहुत दुख है। 16 न् यू इंडि्ा अब्रॉि सोमवार, 30 जनवरी, 2023 ओहायो में भाितीय मूल िे दंपकत औि बेटे िे िव कमले, हतया या सामूकहि आतमहतया? खबरों में बताया गया है लक भारतीय मूल के राजन राजाराम (54), िांलतलता राजन (51) और उनके बेटे अनीष राजाराम (19) के िव उनके घर में लमले। तीनों की मौत गनोली लगने से हुई बताई गई है। With the philosophy “In India, with India, for India” the students will receive the same standard of higher education in India as in Australia, with academic standards based on Deakin’s standards frameworks. Deakin University to open world’s first International teaching campus in India BHAVANA P Deakin University, Australia, is set to open an international teaching campus in India, the first in the world. The new institution will provide access to future-ready postgraduate programmes that are in line with regional jobs. The campus, located in the center of GIFT City (Gujarat International Financial Tec-City), a smart business district, is likely to be open by mid-2024—the year Deakin celebrates its 50th anniversary and 30 years in India. According to a news release, the campus will produce graduates who are prepared for the workforce to satisfy India’s rising demand for workers, strengthening Deakin’s commitment to offer top-notch instruction and learning opportunities to students around the world. Speaking of the new campus, Deakin vice-chancellor professor Iain Martin said Deakin has a long and proud history in India. “Deakin was the first international university to establish its presence in India in 1994, and since then, through innovative collaborations across research, education and training, we have forged a bond based on commitment, excellence, trust and transparency.” Our India partnership is one of the jewels in the crown of our growth and success over the almost 50 years of Deakin’s existence from humble beginnings on a green field site at Waurn Ponds in 1974,” he added. Local students who cannot afford to travel and reside in Australia to study will benefit from the India campus. Deakin’s top-notch academic offerings on campus, which focus on the demands of the digital economy, will initially include the Master of Cyber Security and the Master of Business Analytics degrees before adding degrees from the colleges of Science, Engineering & Built Environment, and Business and Law. Image - Deakin University

18 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 The Justice Department a nd the Securities and Exchange Commission have charged Neil Suresh Chandran with defrauding at least 10,000 investors. Kentucky man pleads guilty to making and distributing child pornography SUNITA SOHRABJI A27-year-old Lexington, Kentucky man faces up to 50 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 13 for making and distributing child pornography with victims as young as 7. Mayank Patel pleaded guilty on March 2 to two felony counts of possessing and producing child pornography. He will also have to pay a maximum $500,000 fine and also faces a minimum of 10 years of supervised release. The defendant is being held without bond until his sentencing. According to court documents obtained by New India Abroad, Department of Homeland Security Special Agent James Bugg — who specializes in federal criminal violations related to high technology or cybercrime, child exploitation, and child pornography — began investigating Patel in January when he learned that he was a member of a website named simply ‘Chat Application A’ in the complaint. ‘Chat Application A’ has the ability for users to form “communities.” Patel belonged to at least 30 communities within the site, which were created solely for distributing child pornography. On January 23, Patel allegedly uploaded a 37-second video of a young male, believed to be about 10-12 years of age, who removed his clothing and began masturbating. Investigators went to Patel’s home, and the defendant agreed to allow them to search his devices: an Apple I phone, and an Apple Mac Book Pro. Patel admitted to investigators that he possessed child sexual abuse videos on his devices and admitted to viewing hardcore and violent child sexual abuse material that included serious bodily harm to infants. He also admitted that he took his phone with him on a trip to India, but the complaint does not state whether he produced pornography there. In a separate incident, Patel filmed a neighbour’s child, believed to be about 7, placing her mouth on his genitals. The video depicts the little girl saying: “don’t pee in my mouth.” The child predator also filmed the little girl’s breasts and genitals and her face was visible in the videos. The complaint does not state whether Patel received any form of payment for producing and distributing the videos. According to the website, Enough is Enough, the US hosts more child sexual abuse content online than any other country in the world. At the end of March 2022, the US accounted for 30% of the global total of child sexual abuse material URLs, according to the Internet Watch Foundation. About 98% of child sexual abuse material reports involved children under 13 years, 30% of which involved children under 10 years, including infants and toddlers, reports IWF. TikTok and YouTube are among the social media sites where sexually explicit materials can be found, but both companies say they have a strict removal policy. However, many parents have complained that once a photo or video is uploaded, it is almost impossible to get it removed. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children operates the CyberTipline, a national mechanism for the public and electronic service providers to report instances of suspected child sexual exploitation. In 2018 the CyberTipline received more than 18.4 million reports. Girls are the overwhelming majority of victims in child exploitation cases. When boys are victimized, they are much more likely than girls to be subjected to very explicit or egregious abuse. Internet chat rooms are one of the primary ways predators find their victims. Posing as teens in chat rooms geared for young people, the predator makes contact by sending private messages to young users. Parents are encouraged to keep all computers in public spaces in the home and to warn their kids about the dangers of online chatting with strangers. Parents whose children have been sexually abused should immediately contact the local law enforcement agency. According to court documents obtained by New India Abroad, Mayank Patel, 27, forced a 7-year-old girl to orally copulate him while he took photos and video. Mayank Patel is accused of making and distributing child pornography. Fayette County, Kentucky Sheriff’s Department photo Feds seize assets, including 26 Teslas, from mastermind behind $55 million investment scam STAFF REPORTER Adistrict court in Nebraska has ordered the seizure and sale of the 43 vehicles of Neil Suresh Chandran, who is in custody awaiting trial for his role in a $55 million investment scam. The seized vehicles include 26 newer model Teslas, a Porsche, a Mercedes Benz, a Land Rover, and a motor vessel and trailer described as a Malibu Wakesetter 23 LSV. Nebraska US Magistrate Judge Cheryl Zwart March 1 ordered the sale of all the vehicles, noting in her order that it would be too costly to store and maintain them until the case against Chandran is finalized. The Securities and Exchange Commission, which filed a complaint earlier this year against Chandran and his partners in the scheme, stated in court documents: “This case concerns a brazen and far-reaching unregistered offering fraud conducted between at least 2018 and 2022.” The SEC noted that Chandran and his partners claimed to own a unique blockchain technology, CoinDeal, that was on the verge of being sold for trillions of dollars to a group of reputable billionaire buyers, and that they needed interim financial support until the sale transaction closed. “Chandran targeted mostly unsophisticated investors with false and misleading promises and representations that investments in CoinDeal would soon yield extremely high returns from the imminent sale of his business. Ultimately, there was no sale, and no distribution of proceeds, because CoinDeal was a sham,” stated the SEC in its complaint. Chandran and his business partner Michael Glaspie told potential investors they would get multi-million dollar returns on an initial investment of $1000, and billions in return on investments of $100,000 or more. Glaspie offered to personally refund investors with a 7 percent profit, in case the deal with CoinDeal failed. Chandran and Glaspie, along with their co-conspirators Garry Davidson, Linda Knott, Amy Mossel, diverted millions of dollars for personal use via shell companies set up to scam investors. In June 2022, the Justice Department indicted Chandran on three counts of wire fraud and two counts of monetary transaction in unlawful proceeds for his involvement in CoinDeal. The SEC filed its case against all five suspects on Jan. 5. “This elaborate investment fraud scheme defrauded more than 10,000 victims of over $55 million,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office. Glaspie pleaded guilty Feb. 23 to one count of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced June 16, and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. Chandran’s trial is expected to begin April 12 via a telephone conference with Judge Zwart. A group of victims who were scammed by Chandran have set up a petition on change. org, seeking to keep him behind bars until his trial has concluded. The petition — which can be viewed here: https://www.change.org/p/ keep-neil-chandran-behind-bars — alleges Chandran has scammed more than $300 million from “the elderly and uninformed.” The petition notes that Chandran and his partners continue to tell people that the deal will eventually come through and they will be rich. “They are keeping hope alive so that victims stop requesting chargebacks from their banks just long enough so that the window of time victims can request these chargebacks will eventually close. Many banks already have closed that window,” noted the petition. Chandran, 51, has been previously convicted of investor fraud. In 2006, California’s Department of Corporations ordered Chandran to desist and refrain from offering or selling securities in California. In 2015, the Alberta Securities Commission sanctioned Chandran and his company for engaging in unregistered trading and illegal securities offerings and fined him $460,000 CAD. In 2016, the Ontario Securities Commission entered a reciprocal order against Chandran, banning him from trading in securities and soliciting investors to trade in securities. In 2018, Chandran pleaded guilty to grand larceny and securities fraud in the state of New York and was ordered to pay almost $2.9 million.

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 19 The exhibition will display one of the most significant private collections of Indian textiles outside of India Texas museum to display Indian textiles from 20th century AVANI ACHARYA The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) announced that an exhibition of a collection of Indian textiles from the 14th to early 20th centuries will take place from June 10 – September 4, 2023 at the museum. Titled “Woven Wonders: Indian Textiles from the Parpia Collection”, the exhibition will display over 80 textiles spanning from folk textiles to the most sophisticated court textiles, obtained from the collection of Banoo and Jeevak Parpia. “Banoo and Jeevak Parpia have over recent years brought their insight and expertise to programs and to our collections of textiles from India. With this exhibition from their exceptional collection, we will be able to further our representation of the rich cultural heritage of Houston’s South Asian community, while exploring the history of one of India’s most treasured art forms,” Gary Tinterow, MFAH director and Margaret Alkek Williams chair noted. Speaking about the collection, co-curator Amy Poster, consulting curator at the MFAH, said, “Assembled to reflect the myriad range of regional traditions, the Parpia Collection includes many singular pieces that reflect the extraordinary aesthetic and technical diversity of Indian textiles, from folk weavings to the most sophisticated court textiles.” According to the museum, the collection will give a glimpse of India’s textile traditions and techniques used for painting and dyeing such as ikat, tie-dye, block printing, embroidery, etc. Moreover, the exhibition will explore the maritime trade between India and other countries and how textiles were bartered for spices and customized as per other countries’ preferences. Golconda Picchwai, Pichwal, 18th century, painted textile, the Banoo and Jeevak Parpia Collection. Image -MFAH

20 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 “This is a great story, and I want to write a book about my life and my journey. It’s definitely going to be a really good chapter, for sure,” Bhatia said. Image - Mallakhamb Federation USA Mallakhamb Federation seeking funds to participate in world championship STAFF REPORTER The Mallakhamb Federation of USA (MFU) is seeking donation for its team to participate in the second world championship at Bhutan between May 9 and 12. Formed in 2013 the MFU has been actively promoting Mallkhamb, an ancient Indian sport within the United States which can be practised by people of all ages. The organisation has put together a 12 member team which is working to compete in the upcoming championship. “We are raising funds to cover travel, food etc. Donations of any size are welcome!”, the Federation has appealed. Akshay Bhatia finishes runner-up in Puerto Rico Open BHAVANA P I ndian origin Akshay Bhatia, a 21-year-old golfer on the Korn Ferry tour who turned pro at age 17, finished at second place in the Puerto Rico Open and was awarded special temporary membership on the PGA Tour, which entitles him to unlimited sponsor exemptions for the remainder of the season. “I can’t believe I’m crying. It means a lot. Worked really hard; it’s been a crazy journey, for sure. Last year was really disappointing; I got hurt and didn’t get my card through the Korn Ferry Tour. It’s crazy. I have so many people to thank … It’s a crazy day. Didn’t even know I shot 7 under. Chipped in three times on the same hole through this week,” Bhatia has been quoted on the PGA tour website. “It’s a great story, and I want to write a book about my life and my journey. It’s definitely going to be a really cool chapter, for sure,” he added. While talking about receiving the special temporary membership, he said, “It’s going to be a lot of emotion. I know my dad’s going to really cry, which I’ve only seen him do one time. My goal this whole year was to finish No. 1 on the Korn Ferry Tour (standings), play that way, get my card that way. But you know, just a different path. I’ve been in this position before, and it makes me happy that I’ve handled it so much better and learned from all the experiences I’ve had. I mean, how can you not be happy being on the PGA TOUR?” In the meantime, Colombian rookie Nico Echavarria took the lead with two straight birdies on the back nine and finished with a 4-under 68 to win the Puerto Rico Open by two shots and claim his first PGA Tour victory. Image - Twitter @/ Golf Central

New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 21 Oscars 2023 RRRoars TAMIL DOCUMENTARY WINS AWARD AVANI ACHARYA I t was a historic year for India at the prestigious 95th Academy Awards as the country won two awards. RRR’s iconic song Naatu Naatu took home the Oscar for Best Music (Original Song) and The Elephant Whisperers bagged the Oscar for Best Documentary Short Film. The two awards created history as Naatu Naatu becomes the first song from an Indian film to win in this category while The Elephant Whisperers becomes the first Indian film to win the prestigious award. “Thank you Academy. I grew up listening to carpenters, and now here, I am with the Oscars.” Music composer M Keeravani said accepting the Oscars for Naatu Naatu. He then started signing these lines, “There was only one wish in my mind, so were Rajamouli and my family’s. RRR has to win the every pride of Indian and must put me on top of the world.” Dedicating her win to India, debutant director, Kartiki Gonsalves, said in her speech for the Elephant Whisperers, “I stand here today to speak for the sacred bond between us and our natural world, for the respect of indigenous communities, and empathy towards other living beings we share space with and finally, for coexistence.” The Tamil short documentary depicts an unbreakable bond between two abandoned elephants and their caretakers. The Oscars night this year turned into an Indian affair as the Oscar-winning song Naatu Naatu was performed live at the start of the ceremony by American actor and dancer Lauren Gottlieb along with Rahul Sipligunj, and Kaala Bhairava and popular Indian actress Deepika Padukone made a stunning appearance as a presenter at the awards. Composer M Keeravani along with lyricist Chandrabose Deepika Padukone for the Oscars. Jr NTR(L), Ram Charan(R) with Director SS Rajamouli Director Kartiki Gonsalves and Producer Guneet Monga Images- Twitter Host Jimmy Kimmel gets stormed by Naatu Naatu dancers on stage at the awards. Image- Twitter

22 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 Kartik Aaryan celebrates Holi with massive crowd in Dallas STAFF REPORTER Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan enthralled massive crowds at a Holi event in Dallas, USA. According to the organizers around 8,000 people attended the event, making it the biggest outdoor event for an Indian Actor in the States. “It was truly a day to remember. The energy of the crowd, the enthusiasm of the attendees, and of course, the presence of Kartik Aaryan made the party memorable,” said 3SixtyShows local organizer Rachel. Overwhelmed by the turnout, the actor took to social media to share glimpses of the event. “Pardes mein apne Desh wali feeling (the feeling of home abroad). My First time in US. Just Unreal. Unbelievable. THANK YOU DALLAS for so much love. This Holi will always remain close to my heart!!”, he wrote. The actor grooved to the title song of his upcoming movie, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2.

Aries You have ahead of you a week full of creativity, which will be very useful in your work, Aries, both now and later. You will also express your emotions and ideas with great ease. But in your environment, you may encounter some resistance to the recognition of your merits. Do not try to impose your ideas and your tastes on the people around you, because you will not succeed in this way. You will get better results by using your persuasiveness. Sometimes you get upset because you’re struggling to advance professionally, the competition is high, and things seem to be stagnating. However, do not stop working. As for your personal development, it is linked to a course, which will not happen immediately. A bit of patience. In love, you may experience some moments of suffering due to jealousy. You doubt your partner’s fidelity because he may have had contact with his ex. Stop suffering for this reason. He loves you. Taurus A good surprise awaits you in the professional world, Taurus. A person from this environment with whom you have never communicated much, will suddenly ask you to participate in one of his projects in which you will have to work as a team. You may be suspicious because you don’t know it in depth and you may think it might actually harm you. But this is not the case, this person is in good faith and seeks to reach an agreement in which you could both benefit from your mutual knowledge because in reality, you are very complementary. Think carefully about whether the project interests you, but don’t dismiss it out of mistrust, your suspicions are unfounded. In any case, you have a few days left to think about it and work out the details. In love, you are tired of your partner not caring and having to take on all the tasks. Try to make him react. You are united by a very intense love. Gemini It’s all up to you, Gemini. Your week will depend on your attitude. Focus on issues that relate to your work and your goals, because soon nothing and no one will be able to stop your professional progress. Plan, take care of everything that needs special attention, pay attention to details. An intense week also awaits you in love. If you’re a Gemini in love and want to solidify your relationship, be careful how you express yourself. Avoid long silences, but don’t spend the whole day texting either. If your partner isn’t responding to you, don’t get discouraged, respect their freedom and give them all the time they need to make up their minds. It’s the best strategy. Cancer You’ll have more time to think now, Cancer, and you’ll be able to find the reason why, no matter how hard you try, you’re failing to scale your work. You’ll find that someone more experienced than you is getting in your way and making sure your qualities aren’t noticed. The only solution is to act intelligently and, above all, with great cunning. You need to plan a strategy, so get to work this week. In the field of business or finance, you sometimes lack the courage to decide and achieve what you desire. Psychologically, you are not ready to take such risks. In love, you can experience good times. Your partner is everything, your lover, your friend and your travel companion. Can’t ask for more. You can trust him and you have his full support. Now, for this to be consolidated, you have to take on more responsibility. You need to move forward in your relationship. These days will bring you closer to each other. Leo You may have recently started a new job and are now in the adjustment phase. If you’re worried about how things are going to turn out from now on, relax because you got it right. You will achieve great success over time. Now you have to have a little patience. If you have a business, you are worried because you now see the future as very uncertain. Remember that sometimes things take a complicated road and that seems to be the case for you. Prepare to face difficulties, but do not lose heart, because you will manage to get back on your feet. Take advantage of your current financial possibilities to increase your future resources, this will allow you to pass this difficult course. On a sentimental level, a few tense days await you, but since you know this, try to avoid any situation that could lead to an argument. Nerves are on edge, do your best to control yourself and don’t say things you’ll regret. Virgo You’re going through a very nervous time, Virgo, and it’s not all about work. In matters of the heart, you have a lot of emotional insecurity right now. It may be because your recent relationship with someone was established in an open, non-committal way. But now you realize that you fell in love and wish you had something more. Give yourself time to take stock of your feelings, to find out if you really feel love, and also to try to find out what he/she is thinking. He/she may also have changed and also be afraid to tell you. These next few days will be important and decisive, as you will realize the true nature of what binds you at this time. Although you first thought of approaching it from in some way, events may have led you to act differently. It wouldn’t be the first time, it’s more common than it seems. And due to the favorable astral conjunction affecting you this week, you are going to gain the upper hand. Libra Now that you have time, Libra, your mind circles around certain situations in your work environment. You have become a bit paranoid. You always need to be in control and when something unexpected happens you panic. You are mistaken, but such mistrust can offend those around you. You need to empathize with your team members, whether they are at the bottom or at the top. Fantasy plans for next weekend may fall through, but don’t be negative about it. Remember that everything in life has a purpose, so adapt and plan another activity, even at home. Why don’t you go around your wardrobe? But it is also true that very intense days are ahead on the social level, even on the phone or your computer screen. You’ll talk to people you can’t even imagine. If you are a lonely hearter, you may find your soul mate in one of these people. Scorpio Keep all negativity away from you, Scorpio. You must be 100% positive now. Maintaining this attitude is the best way to deal with certain adverse circumstances. You who are so organized, make a schedule so that you can do all the things you never have time for every day. Outside of work, your list might include a little yoga or stretching, natural beauty treatments, reading... Take advantage of tutorials on languages, music, painting, and much more than you can find on the internet. And if there’s an idea in your head, maybe it’s time to put it into practice. In the sentimental domain, Sagittarius You’ve probably had a few run-ins with one of your superiors in recent days, Sagittarius. This has caused you a lot of discouragement, among other things because you think that the question is unresolved. But in a few days a new project may arise and you will be the first to be surprised when your boss asks you for help. This will be the time to iron out this conflict once and for all. In these days begins for Sagittarius a period of great economic growth that will last about six months. You won’t notice it too much at first, but your business will move forward. You don’t have such an easy life in the sentimental field. A little patience before everything goes back to normal. Capricorn Life is going to surprise you with an unexpected situation these days, Capricorn. Something that you never thought would happen is going to materialize precisely now. On a personal level, it will be a stressful week, not only because you want to go out, to travel, and you won’t be able to do it now, but also because a friend will need your emotional support. Do what you can in this regard. You may have noticed that your partner has drifted away from you over the past few days, but he/she hasn’t given you an explanation either. Don’t get upset or angry with him/her. It is possible that this attitude is due to the fact that he/she does not assimilate a certain situation or that he/she has problems in his/her family environment. Don’t worry, it will pass. You have to be patient now and forgive what in other times you would not have done otherwise. Aquarius If you were expecting changes in the work environment, Aquarius, in a few days, maybe a few weeks, there could be some very positive changes. This week, you will receive a call for a future interview that will lift your spirits. Start preparing, be confident, everything will turn out fine and you will get what you want. You may also receive a proposal to participate in a commercial operation. You will do well to think about it before you decide, because it could harm you financially. In love, an excellent sentimental week awaits you. You might be contacted by someone who will dazzle you and it seems that they are also very interested in you. Your doubts stem from the fact that it seems too good to be true, but you must put aside your mistrust. A very good opportunity to be happy in the very near future. Pisces This week, Pisces, you will receive a great lunar impulse that will allow you to successfully face difficult situations and adapt perfectly to some important changes that may occur in your life. For this reason, if you have to make important decisions during these days, be guided by your own judgment, as it will be the most accurate. Now think about that proposal you received that would mean career advancement. If you accept it, you will adapt to the new situation in the blink of an eye. In the sentimental domain, you waste a little time recreating the nostalgia of a love that was important to you, but which ended a long time ago. Even if this person now comes to your mind with intensity, turn the page . There is a person who can make you happy, but he will only appear when you are convinced that the past will not return. Weekly Horoscope Sundeep Kochar Astrologer https://www.sundeepkochar.com New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023 23

24 New India Abroad Monday, 13 March, 2023