New India Abroad 25 Mar 2023

*New India Abroad is a Registered trademark and not affiliated with the newspaper named India Abroad marketed in the US from 1972 to 2021. Khalistan supporters and opponents cross swords at San Francisco Indian Consulate Philadelphia’s Rajasthani community celebrates Gangaur at Bharatiya Temple Sunil Grover to play illegal immigrant in new series A platform for the voice of next generation Indian Americans ...Page 3 ...Page 24 ...Page 28 California considers ban on caste discrimination ...Page 3 Garcetti sworn in as US ambassador to India After about two years, Garcetti appointment to New Delhi was confirmed last week when the US Senate approved his nomination. VIKAL SAMDARIYA Eric Garcetti was sworn in as the US Ambassador to India by Vice President Kamala Harris on March 24, 2023, at a ceremonial event. His family members including his daughter and wife were present to witness the swearing-in ceremony. Garcetti was earlier this month confirmed in the position ending a hiatus of nearly two years that left an important American mission abroad without a regular envoy. When questioned about the new assignment, the former Mayor said,’ I cannot wait to serve.’ On Garcetti’s swearing-in, Vice President Harris tweeted, “Today, I had the honor of swearing in my fellow Californian, Eric Garcetti to be our next Ambassador to India. He is a committed public servant and will play a critical role in strengthening our partnership with the people of India.” The US State Department’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) congratulated Garcetti in a tweet that read, “The U.S. and @State_SCA are excited to mark this important step and look to further grow the #USIndia partnership, one of the most consequential in the world.” In his congratulatory message, the Ambassador of India to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu said “As he prepares to depart for India, we discussed some immediate priorities in deepening the bilateral partnership, in line with our leaders’ vision. Look forward to working with Eric.” Eric Garcetti swearing-in as US Ambassador to India with Vice President Kamala Harris. Image - Twitter / Vice President Kamala Harris Business or tourist visa holders can apply for jobs, give interviews: USCIS SUMAN VARANDANI L aid-off H1-B visa holders breathed a sigh of relief when the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed that business or tourist visa holders can apply for new jobs and even appear for interviews. However, the visa status must be changed to an employment based visa before starting the job. must get their visa status changed. “Many people have asked if they can look for a new job while in B-1 or B-2 status. The answer is, yes. Searching for employment and interviewing for a position are permissible B-1 or B-2 activities,” the US Citizenship and Immigration Services said in a series of tweets. USCIS issued the confirmation on Twitter comes after many laid-off H1-B visa holders, majority of whom are Indians, feared they they will have to leave the country within 60 days of their termination from their previous job. The new information gives the terminated employees more time to stay in the country and look for new jobs. The USCIS explained that nonimmigrant workers are not aware of the rules and often assume that if they lose their job in the US then they have to leave the country within 60 days. Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sindhu meets Garcetti before his departure to India Year 1, Volume 23 Washington DC, Monday 27 March, 2023

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, 27 March, 2023 Kishida and Modi spoke about bilateral cooperation, food security and development financing. The government also provides aids to IndoForeign friendship cultural societies for organizing programmes and activities relevant to Indian culture PM Modi and Japan’s PM Fumio Kishida discuss critical global issues SUMAN VARANDANI J apan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was in New Delhi on Monday where he met his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to discuss critical global issues. The visit assumes significance as Japan is set to host the G7 Summit next month. Kishida announced action plans for a new IndoPacific initiative as part of its action to counter China’s influence in the region. He aims to promote a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, a Tokyo-led initiative. Japan will provide assistance to India in terms of economic help, support for maritime security, provision of coast guard patrol boats and equipment and other infrastructure cooperation. Kishida and Modi spoke about bilateral cooperation, food security and development financing. The two leaders vowed to deal with global challenges, including soaring prices of energy and food supplies amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Kishida said “the foundation of order in the international community was shaken by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine,” according to an article in the Indian Express newspaper. “In order to respond effectively to the various challenges that the international community is currently facing, cooperation between the G-7 and the G-20 has greater significance. Such pressing challenges include food security, climate and energy, fair and transparent development finance,” he added. Both countries share a strong economic tie with trade worth US$20.57 billion in the fiscal year 2021-2022. Image- Twitter @JPN_PMO Govt launches scheme to promote Indian culture abroad SUPRIYA SINGH I n an effort to promote Indian folk arts and culture abroad, the Ministry of culture has launched a global engagement scheme Minister of Tourism and Development of North Eastern Region, G. Kishan Reddy revealed in the Rajya Sabha. Under the scheme festivals of India are organized in other countries showcasing folk art and other cultural events such as exhibitions, dance, music, theatre, film and food festivals, and yoga events, he said. “Ministry of Culture also provides grant-in-aid to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies for organizing programmes and activities for promoting the rich and diverse culture of India including North East India across the world,” Reddy told the house on March 23. With reference to the North East of India, the minister said that schemes such as Awards to Young Talented Artists, Guru Shishya Parampara, Theatre Rejuvenation, Research & Documentation, Shilpgram, OCTAVE and National Cultural Exchange Programme are specially applicable to North East Zones. Highlighting the Yuva Sangam programmes, he said that it is also conducted within India. Exposure visits of youth (18-30 years) are being organized as part of the program between the eight northeast states and other states. Image- Ministry of culture Image - Twitter/ Dr Jitendra Singh India emerges as world’s major bio-economy VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndia’s bio-economy has grown eight times in the last eight years to become one of the world’s major bio-economies over the last few years, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said in a meeting with the president and CEO, of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), Dr Mark Feinberg on March 22, 2023. “We have grown from US$10 billion to US$80 billion. India is not too far from reaching the league of top-10 countries in Biotech’s global ecosystem,” the Minister said of India’s progress. He also called for extended collaboration in biotech startups and vaccine development with public-private partnerships for the global good. Dr Feinberg along with the country director of IAVI India, Rajat Goyal called on the Union Minister to seek concrete proposals and guidance in developing sustainable startups for a lasting source of livelihoods, according to a government news release. During the meeting, IAVI chief announced that the organization will be partnering with India for the development of a Tuberculosis Vaccine. The development comes as a result of the collaboration between the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and IAVI to prevent, diagnose and/ or treat diseases of concern in India and globally, including HIV, tuberculosis, emerging infectious diseases like COVID-19 and other global health threats. President and CEO, of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Dr Mark Feinberg with Union Minister of State for Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh.

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 3 “There was so much emotion when people heard what Khalistanis had done to our Consulate. The violence is simply unacceptable.” Khalistan supporters and opponents cross swords at San Francisco Indian Consulate SUNITA SOHRABJI S AN FRANCISCO, California — More than 150 Indian Americans from the San Francisco Bay Area staged a demonstration here March 24 in support of the San Francisco Indian Consulate, which had been vandalized 5 days earlier by Khalistani supporters. “I stand here today in solidarity with the Indian consulate, which was attacked by separatists last week,” Parmeet Randhawa told New India Abroad at the scene. Randhawa, a Punjabi Sikh herself, said: “The majority of Sikhs do not support Khalistan. This is a fringe element that constitutes not even 5 percent of our community.” Ashish Khurana noted that the demonstration was coordinated by a group of organizations. “There was so much emotion when people heard what Khalistanis had done to our Consulate. The violence is simply unacceptable.” He noted police at the scene and questioned why arrests had not yet been made in connection with the vandalism. “Hindus and Sikhs are brothers. This is a small section of misguided youth who have perpetrated this.” Waving Indian and US flags in front of the Indian consulate, the ad hoc group of supporters danced and loudly chanted “Vande Matharam” and pro-India slogans to the rhythms of a dhol player. Barricades and heavy police presence separated them from a group of equally vociferous Khalistanis, some of whom had spent the entire week protesting in front of the Consulate, and sleeping at night in a large green tent. Five days earlier, their peaceful demonstration turned violent as three Khalistanis, using large kirpans, smashed the windows of the Consulate, injuring two workers inside who were hit with shards of glass. Protests and demonstrations also took place March 19 in London, Australia, and Canada. San Francisco Police Department Sgt. Eric Mahoney told New India Abroad at the scene: “Police presence here has been consistent since last Sunday. We plan to continue police presence here for the foreseeable future.” There is an active, ongoing investigation to determine the perpetrators who smashed Consulate windows, according to the SFPD. Several Khalistanis told New India Abroad at the March 24 demonstration that they did not condone the vandalism. They added, however, that there were bigger concerns at stake. “I do not support the smashing of windows, but you must understand the sentiment of our people,” Ranjit Singh, a Khalistani supporter from Fremont, California, told New India Abroad. During the search for fugitive Khalistan leader Amritpal Singh, which began March 18, the Punjab government abruptly shut down all Internet and text communications for 27 million residents of the state. Sukhchain Singh Gill, the inspector general of police for Punjab told The Associated Press March 22 that police have so far arrested 154 supporters of Singh and seized 10 guns and ammunition. “Shutting down the Internet has terrible consequences for the people of Punjab. Hospitals and emergency services also had no connectivity, which could have led to deaths,” said Ranjit Singh. Sonia Singh, also from Fremont, told NIA: “Our innocent brothers and sisters are being held in prison with no charges against them. These are warrantless arrests.” “Many of our brothers have simply disappeared,” she said. 2021 data from India’s National Crime Records Bureau shows that 77 percent of the country’s 600,000+ prison population are awaiting trial, often for several years. More than two-thirds of India’s undertrial prisoners are from minority communities, such as Christians, Dalits, and Sikhs, according to the Centre for Economic Data and Analysis in India. “These are unwarranted arrests of journalists and activists, as well as their families,” Saheb Singh — who had traveled from Stockton, California and slept inn a tent for five days — told NIA. “I intend to stay here until all prisoners are released.” Jeevan Kaur, a 17-year-old student from San Francisco, said history was repeating itself. “This is not the first time my people have been subjected to unlawful detention,” she said. “My parents and grandparents have lived through it.” “Hindu nationalism is suppressing everything that gets it its way, said Kaur, as she held a sign noting why she was protesting. Archana Panda of Cupertino, California told NIA she was concerned about Western media portraying India as a Hindu nationalist country. “India is a heritage country. Finally we are standing up for our belief systems and our culture. We are fighting for what we stand for. We have not done that before,” she said. An ad hoc group of about 150 Indian Americans staged a demonstration outside the San Francisco Indian Consulate March 24 afternoon to protest vandalism that had occurred here 5 days earlier. All images : Sunita Sohrabji photo

4 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 [email protected] Indian-American institutions condemn attack on Indian Consulate in SF British Indian community condemns Khalistani vandalism in London MADHU BALAJI I NSIGHT UK, a social movement that voices the British Indian (BHI) communities, has condemned the attack on the Indian High Commission in London and the desecration of the Indian flag by Khalistan extremists. “We express our deep concern and outrage over this shameful act of disrespect towards a national symbol and the sovereign representation of India in the UK,” it said in a statement. “We stand in solidarity with the people of India, the Indian diaspora and the High Commission of India in the UK in denouncing such acts of violence and intimidation,” it added. The organization mentioned that the country’s diplomatic mission in London has been under repeated attacks, posing a serious threat to safety and security, and added that this would impact bilateral trade relations between the two countries. Quoting the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), which reads, “the host country has an obligation to take all appropriate measures to protect the premises of the diplomatic mission, prevent any intrusion or damage, and ensure the safety and freedom of movement of its staff,” INSIGHT UK urged the UK government to take strong action against the extremists and ensure the security of all diplomatic missions and personnel. The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK also issued a statement in this regard. The Union, standing in solidarity with the High Commission and Indians in the UK, expressed shock and concern about the “violent disorder and vandalism”. VIKAL SAMDARIYA The attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco (SF) by a group of pro-Khalistan protesters was condemned by Indian-American associations, community groups and prominent individuals who demanded immediate action against those responsible for it. The US-India Business Council (USIBC) condemned the attack on the Consulate General of India in San Francisco and expressed solidarity with the Indian Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Consul General TV Nagendra Prasad, and the staff at the Consulate in San Francisco. Business Council conveyed “Violence and vandalism towards diplomatic facilities violates the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and the shared values that underpin the U.S.-India partnership.” In a statement, US-India Strategic Partnership (USISP) Forum promptly condemned the attack and called the local authorities to take necessary action against the culprits and those guilty of aiding and abetting the vandalism. The forum messaged “US and India are vibrant democracies and understand that the right to assemble peacefully and protest is sacrosanct. However, violence and vandalism will not be condoned or tolerated. Diplomats and consular staff deserve the same right to a secure and peaceful work environment, free from external harm and threats. We stand by the staff.” Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) also condemned the attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco and expressed concern for law & order in San Francisco and asked to follow the Vienna convention to protect consulates. Community leader Ajay Bhutoria strongly condemned the attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco and expressed his heartfelt solidarity with India. He said “This act of violence is an attack on the peace and harmony of our community. All members of our community unite and promote peace and harmony. Let us work together towards a world where all communities can live in peace and mutual respect. We must not let such incidents divide us or sow the seeds of hatred.” Bay Area Telugu Association (BATA) and the Association of Indo-Americans (AIA) strongly condemned the attack on the San Francisco Consul General of India Office. In their statements, the associations voiced “Such acts of violence disrupt unity, peace & harmony. We stand in support of CGI SFO.” In a statement, The United States strongly condemned the attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco by a group of separatist Sikhs, terming it absolutely unacceptable. A group of pro-Khalistan protesters on March 19, 2023, attacked and damaged the Indian Consulate in San Francisco. Raising pro-Khalistan slogans, they broke open the makeshift security barriers and installed two “Khalistani flags” inside the Consulate premises which were later removed by consulate officials, according to the reports. USISPF, USIBC, FIIDS and others condemned the attack on the Consulate General of India in San Francisco and expressed their solidarity with Indian mission in the US. A huge tricolour draped on the Indian High Commission in London after the original flag was taken down. Image: Twitter

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 5 Biden nominates Nisha Desai Biswal as USIDFC Dy. CEO VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndian- American representation has continuously been surging in the Biden administration. In a new development, President Joe Biden announced his intent to nominate Nisha Desai Biswal as deputy chief executive officer of the United States International Development Finance Corporation (USIDFC). Gujarat-born Biswal carries over 30 years of experience in U.S. foreign policy and international development programs within the Executive Branch, Congress, and the private sector, according to the US President’s Office release. Her nomination will now have to be approved by the US Senate. On her nomination, she tweeted, “Honored to be nominated by @POTUS to be Deputy CEO of @DFCgov.” Seasoned foreign policy expert Biswal serves as senior vice president for International Strategy and Global Initiatives at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, overseeing the U.S. India Business Council and U.S. Bangladesh Business Council. Additionally, she serves as the chair of the Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid and is on both the Board of the National Democratic Institute and the U.S. Institute of Peace International Advisory Council. Biswal served as assistant secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs at the U.S. Department of State from 2013 to 2017 when she was instrumental in initiating the C5+1 Dialogue with Central Asia and the U.S.-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue. Before that, Biswal was assistant administrator for Asia at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and also spent over a decade on Capitol Hill, working as staff director on the State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee on Appropriations as well as professional staff on the Foreign Affairs Committee in the House of Representatives, her profile stated. President Joe Biden nominee Nisha Desai Biswal for Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the United States International Development Finance Corporation (USIDFC) post. Image - The US Embassy India Biswal served as the Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs in the US Department of State under the Obama administration . Democrat Makhija is contesting for the post on the board that handles county property and finances, taxation of county residents and administration of the 2024 election. Neil Makhija in the running for Montgomery Commissioner STAFF REPORTER I ndian-American attorney and community activist Neil Makhija is in the running for the post of Commissioner of Montgomery County (Montco), the third largest County in Pennsylvania and home to more than 850,000 residents. The election is scheduled to be held on May 16, 2023. A prominent Pennsylvania civil rights advocate and election law professor, Makhija if elected could create history as the first AsianAmerican commissioner of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. Makhija is currently on leave from serving as the executive director of Impact, the nation’s leading South Asian civic organization, and as a Lecturer in election law at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, according to his website. In 2021, Makhija was among 13 civil rights leaders invited by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to the White House to advise on civil & voting rights. He was named by City & State PA as one of the “40 under 40” most influential people in Pennsylvania politics alongside some of the state’s highest-ranking government leaders. The Harvard Law School graduate has worked in the White House, and the U.S. Senate, and has played important role in campaigning for several elected representatives. As a community leader, he is passionate about advocating on behalf of underrepresented communities and engaging new citizens in the state and local politics. Indian-American Neil Makhija. Image - Neil Makhija Virginia governor appoints Srilekha Palle to VAAB STAFF REPORTER Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin appointed Indian-American community and healthcare leader Srilekha Palle to the Virginia Asian Advisory Board (VAAB). Palle, a doctor carries over 22 years of experience in leadership roles in the healthcare sector and in 2019 was the Fairfax GOP’s nominee for Sully District Supervisor. Boston university alumnus, Palle is a visiting fellow at the Independent Women’s Forum. Prior to her current position with Inova Health Systems, she held several roles of increasing responsibility in executive and general leadership at other private healthcare systems, with P&L responsibility of over US $30M and accountability for both organizational and departmental leadership, according to her profile. Currently, she serves as an advisory board member for the Physical Therapy Assistant Program at Northern Virginia Community College. She also volunteers with the Vincent Ferrari foundation to provide rehabilitation care in rural community hospitals across India, her profile added. Commenting on her appointment, she conveyed her gratitude to Governor Youngkin. In her new role as a member of the board, she said “I look forward to serving as a liaison between the administration and our Commonwealth’s richly diverse Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.” Fairfax GOP Chairman Steve Knotts lauded Palle’s appointment and said, “Srilekha Palle is the personification of the American Dream.I was thrilled to learn of her appointment to the Asian Advisory Board and I have every confidence that she will serve the Commonwealth admirably.” VAAB consists of twenty-one members appointed by the Governor and advises him on issues of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) interest so that his administration can best serve the AAPI constituents of Virginia. Image - Fairfax Republican

6 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 The US Government’s National Medal of Arts and Humanities is the highest honor in the respective fields. Mindy Kaling receives National Humanities medal MADHU BALAJI President Joe Biden, on March 21, 2023, presented the 2021 National Humanities Medal to Indian American actress and producer Vera Mindy Chokalingam, popularly known as Mindy Kaling, during a White House ceremony. The National Medal of Arts and Humanities is the highest award the government confers upon individuals who have made significant contributions to arts and humanities. “Mindy Kaling’s work across television, film, and books inspires and delights—capturing and uplifting the experiences of women and girls across the nation,” Kaling’s award citation issued by the White House read. Presenting the award to Kaling, Biden said that she is the first woman of color to create, write and star in a primetime sitcom. “She is hardworking and an adoring mom, just like her own mom was. And, Mindy, we know your mom is always with you in your spirit. We know that” the President added. Kaling, 43, is a daughter of Indian immigrants and was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1979. She was earlier nominated for the prestigious Emmy Award recognizing her work in the NBC sitcom The Office. The 12 recipients of the 2021 National Humanities Award include; Richard Blanco, Johnnetta Betsch Cole, Walter Isaacson, Walter Isaacson, Henrietta Mann, Ann Patchett, and Amy Tan. Image: Twitter/@WhiteHouse Mindy Kaling receives the award from President Biden Lavanya Mahate launches RISE Culinary Institute SUMAN VARANDANI F ounder of Indian eateries in the United States Lavanya Mahate has launched the RISE Culinary Institute, a training kitchen and school located at Saffron Valley’s Sugar House in Salt Lake City to address the shortage of labor in Utah’s restaurant industry. People “are willing and able to work and just need the resources or the training to get a job in the culinary field,” she said. The institute will select through an online application process, refugees and new residents for a free hands-on culinary training program. Trainees will be placed with restaurants for six months in a paid internship position. Depending on the internship, they might get hired full-time by the restaurant. “The true success of any business is when they can be successful to provide for themselves and their employees, and also contribute to the community and help build community,” Mahate said. “My purpose has kind of evolved since then. First, it was always serving people. It’s come to be more than that. Now, [it’s] about helping people explore their potential, as I explore my own,” she added. Mahate, who owns the five Saffron Valley restaurants in Utah, has long practiced the art of Indian cuisine. “It’s slow cooking. It’s not a one-and-done or one-pot cooking. It’s the layering of flavors: Where you start with sautéing the onions, ginger and garlic and then you layer in your spices, vegetables and finishing ingredients. You develop flavor through the slow cooking.” Born in India, Mahate immigrated to the U.S. and moved to Utah in 2001 after finishing a master’s degree in mass communication. In 2011, she opened her first Saffron Valley location, at 1098 W. South Jordan Parkway in South Jordan. Image- Saffron Valley Facebook Binita Kane wins 2022 South Asian leader Award SUPRIYA SINGH Dr Binita Kane, a respiratory consultant at Manchester University won the South Asian Leader Award for 2022 at the first Asian Professionals National Alliance NHS (APNA) award ceremony earlier this year. The award recognised her revolutionary work for South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM) and for ensuring that the history of British people of South Asian descent is documented and celebrated. This year marks the fourth anniversary of South Asian Heritage Month(SAHM), the brainchild of Dr Kane and Jasvir Singh. Reacting to the award, Kane said, “It’s amazing to have this work recognised across the NHS nationally, I just feel really honoured. There was so much competition in my category, so I was a little bit surprised too. I co-founded South Asian Heritage Month after taking part in the 2017 BBC documentary called “My Family, Partition and Me.” “The NHS workforce was built on the waves of immigration that happened after the Second World War. Britain was very much depleted of a workforce and people like my father, who was a physician, were encouraged to come over to England in the 1950s, 60s and 70s by being given British citizenship. They became a fundamental part of building the NHS into the great institution it is,” she added. SAHM was created to celebrate, commemorate and educate about the rich histories that link the UK with the South Asian countries of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. APNA is a voluntary organisation of NHS health and social care leaders of South Asian descent. The word “APNA” means “Our” in several South Asian languages. Binita Kane co-founder of the South Asian Heritage Month UK. Image- SAHMUK

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8 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 The Cumin Club currently offers more than 30 plus dishes from over 8 regions across India. The authentic, regionally diverse Indian meals made in five minutes, start at just $4.99/per meal. Founded in 1982, the AAPI represents the values and interests of more than 80,000 practising physicians in the United States and also serves as a platform for more than 40,000 medical students, residents, and fellows of Indian origin in the country. AAPI announces 41st annual convention in July SUPRIYA SINGH The 41st Annual Convention and Scientific Sessions organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian origin (AAPI) will be held from July 6-9, 2023 in Philadelphia. Founded in 1982, AAPI represents the values and interests of more than 80,000 practising physicians in the United States and also serves as a platform for more than 40,000 medical students, residents, and fellows of Indian origin in the country. Making the announcement at a gala held on March 3 at the Royal Albert’s palace in Edison, New Jersey, Dr Ravi Kolli, president of AAPI said, “The convention will be the best in the history of AAPI. Our focus will be on mind, body, and spirit, with special attention to mental health, removing the stigma, and access to care, artificial intelligence, and lifestyle medicine.” Inaugurated by India’s consul general in New York Randhir Jaiswal, and Bollywood star Bhagyashree the gala was attended by prominent community members and AAPI leaders. Describing AAPI as the largest organization of physicians after the American Medical Association, Dr Sanjay Gupta, convention coordinator said, “We treat one of seven Americans; our doctors are spread in every corner, and that is our strength. Philadelphia is a historic place to hold the convention because it had the first hospital in America back in 1751, and the first medical school in 1752.” India’s Consul General Jaiswal praised AAPI’s contributions and highlighted India’s latest campaign on making the food grain millet, a global superfood – “for our health and the health of the planet” because it consumes less water and contains essential nutrients. According to an official statement, the upcoming convention will offer a platform to interact with leading physicians, health professionals, academicians, and scientists of Indian origin. “Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country will convene and participate in the scholarly exchange of medical advances, develop health policy agendas, and encourage legislative priorities in the coming year,” the statement said. Dr Ravi Kolli, President AAPI(Far left) with Consul General Randhir Jaiswal amd Actress Bhagyashree. Images-AAPI Image - Twitter/@AAPIUSA Cumin Club launches new culinary journey in NYC STAFF REPORTER The Cumin Club, a nationwide supplier of five-minute meal kits, announced the launch of their latest dish Hyderabadi Biryani at an event in New York City during a private dinner for food journalists and culinary content creators at Lees Private Dining. “We’re always striving to bring new and exciting dishes from different regions of India to customers’ tables. So we’re thrilled to announce the much-awaited launch of Hyderabadi Biryani made with 15 different spices. Our team of culinary experts went through many iterations to perfect this recipe, and we’re sure this is going to be a customer favourite,” said Ragoth Bala, the club’s co-founder. The dining experience, titled “The Cuisines of India”, was an intersection of celebrating Indian food and art and was curated under the creative direction of Chef Dalia David. Hyper-realistic artist Sarasvathy TK also presented a glimpse of her private collection ‘Bhojan’, during the event. To demonstrate the ease of preparing meals with their kits, Bala presented a demonstration by adding hot water to Dal Chawal. Harish Visweswaran, co-founder of the club said, “At The Cumin Club, we care deeply about food, culture and representation. Our NYC Dinner event was right at the intersection of all three of these elements. We plan to host many more such dinners in the future.” The Cumin Club currently offers more than 30 plus dishes from over 8 regions across India. The authentic, regionally diverse Indian meals made in five minutes, start at just $4.99/per meal. Image- Cumin Club India’s NY mission remembers late architect B. V. Doshi VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndian Consulate General in New York commemorated the life and work of late Padma Vibhushan architect, B. V. Doshi, on March 17, 2023. The Pritzker prize winner and founder of CEPT University in Ahmedabad, breathed his last on January 24, 2023. Doshi was an Indian architect noted for his contribution to the evolution of architectural discourse in India. Having worked under Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn, he was a pioneer of modern architecture in India, according to a press release. The Consulate General, New York organized the event in association with CEPT Alumni Association of Americas and the Society of Indo-American Engineers and Architects (SIAEA). “His ideas on architecture & urbanization deeply influenced the building of modern India,” ths consulate said in a tweet shring glimpses of the event. In 2018, Doshi became the first Indian architect to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize. He was the recipient of India’s highest civilian honours - Padma Shri, the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan. He was also awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects Royal Gold Medal for 2022. Event celebrating the Life of Architect Balkrishna V. Doshi at Indian Consulate General in New York. Image - India in New York

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 9 GOPIO-CT, which funds a local community organization every year, also kicked off the year’s activities by presenting a US$5000 cheque to the Mill River Park Collaborative (MRPC) during the event. GOPIO-CT’s new team takes oath, launches yearly activities STAFF REPORTER The Connecticut chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) recently held an event in Stamford, Connecticut for the swearing in of the executive council and trustees as well as to launch the year’s activities. Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons administered the oath of office to the newly elected members and praised the efforts of the Indian American community in Stamford. “How proud we are of the Indian American community and the rich contributions made by them to our city for so many years – everything from education to business, innovation, arts and culture as well as the organization’s activities have brought so much vibrancy to our city, “she said adding that she and her team look forward to working with GOPIO-CT and supporting its initiatives to build a more inclusive and equitable society. The executive council includes president Dr. Jaya Daptardar, executive VP Mahesh Jhangiani, vice president Prachi Narayan, secretary Sushanth Krishnamurthy, joint secretary Ashwini Persaud, treasurer Srinivas Akarapu. Welcoming the members, Daptardar said, “We will all work together with GOPIO Chairman, trustees and board members to serve the community and will make sure to make the difference.” GOPIO-CT 2023 team, from l. to r.: Prasad Chintalapudi, Ashvini Persaud, Prachi Narayan, Dr. Jaya Daptardar, Dr. Thomas Abraham, Ashok Nichani, Sushanth Krishnamurthy, Srinivas Akarapu, Dr. Anita Mathur. Santosh Gannu and Meera Banta During the event, GOPIO-CT, which funds a local community organization every year, also kicked off the year’s activities by presenting a US$5000 cheque to the Mill River Park Collaborative (MRPC), which organizes activities for children and adults of all ages. The cheque was presented by immediate past president Ashok Nichani to MRPC board chairman Arnold Karp and the director of operations Dianne Houtz. Addressing the gathering, GOPIO chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham lauded the contributions of the global Indian diaspora community. “Indian Diaspora is proud of its achievement in the political arena as well as in the corporate world with many persons of Indian origin heading large multinational companies,” he said. GOPIO-CT presenting a check to Mill River Park Collaborative. Images- GOPIO Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons administering the Oath of Office to the GOPIO-CT team headed by Dr. Jaya Daptardar as President. SANTOBA organizes “Make Bihar great” seminar Image - SANTOBA SANTOBA’s seminar on “Make Bihar great” in NJ BHAVANA P Aseminar was held on March 19 by the American organization Sainik School Tilaiya Old Boys Association (SANTOBA), on the theme “Make Bihar Great Again” in Edison, New Jersey’s Roosevelt Park. SANTOBA alumni is a network of former students from Sainik school, Tilaiya, which was founded in 1963, and will turn 60 this year. The event was planned to mark the diamond anniversary of the founding of the school. More than 60 prominent people from Bihar and Jharkhand attended the event, which also featured alumni networks from public engineering institutes in both states as well as several luminaries. The event’s main guest was Randhir Jaiswal, Indian Consulate General of New York. Addressing the seminar he encouraged and congratulated the event organizers and participants. In order to have a greater impact and a wider horizon for development in the State of Bihar and Jharkhand, he urged the community to collaborate with each Alumni network. He commended the efforts of BIT, NOBA, SANTOBA, and other networks. To enable organizations working for the development of Bihar to have a better impact, Anil Kumar Sharma from SANTOBA USA welcomed all participants from NOBA, BIT Sindari, Mesra, Hazaribagh, MIT, BJANA, Bihar Foundation, Ish Yog, VanyaPrastha, and DHUN. Participants presented their work using a projector, slides, and questions and answers. Sunit and Braj Kishore, who were SANTOBA’s representatives, spoke to the group about the company’s social and other activities. Veteran of the Indian army Shiv Singh, owner of Vanyaprashtha and Santan Sanstha, showcased his work and invited them to his yagya. Several individuals joined the gathering virtually and it was mutually agreed that similar meetings should be held to improve communication and collaboration among those working on ground for Bihar.

10 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 After Seattle, California may become the first state in the US to have anti cast discrimination legislation in the state’s statutes. California considers ban on caste discrimination VIKAL SAMDARIYA Anew bill was introduced in the California state senate to provide protection from discrimination on the basis of caste. If the proposed bill is passed by the senate and gets approved by the governor, California, the biggest state in the US will become the first state to include caste as a protected category in its anti-discrimination statutes. This comes a month after Seattle became the first US city to ban caste-based discrimination. Democrat State senator Aisha Wahab, representing Senate District 10, introduced the bill, which has been supported by various community groups and individuals including Equality Labs, the Ambedkar Association of North America, Hindus for Caste Equity, Sikh Coalition and others. In a statement released by Equality Labs, Wahab was quoted as saying, “We want to ensure organisations and companies do not entrench caste discrimination in their practices or policies, and in order to do that we need to make it plainly clear that discrimination based on caste is against the law.” Indian American Thenmozhi Soundararajan, Equality Labs and author of The Trauma of Caste welcomed the bill. “As someone who grew up in this state, faced casteist bullying in k-12 schools and university, organized around the Laki Bali Reddy Case, fought for caste equity in California textbooks, and founded Equality Labs we know this caste-oppressed Californians are here and we deserve workplaces and educational institutions free from discrimination and violence,” she said. The Democrat State senator Aisha Wahab ( Fourth from right) holding banner with support of the bill. Image - Twitter/Prem Pariyar

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 11 Karnataka born Rangappa has a high impact research career with more than 25 peer-reviewed scientific articles in abiotic stress physiology and molecular breeding. The medals commemorate the birth anniversary of Thomas Jefferson – the author of the Declaration of Independence, the third U.S. president and the founder of the University of Virginia. Indian lawyers who decriminalized homosexuality named Medal recipients VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndian lawyers Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katju were named recipients of the prestigious 2023 Thomas Jefferson Foundation Medal, that recognises their efforts in winning a landmark case before India’s Supreme Court that decriminalized homosexuality by striking down a colonial law under section 377 of Indian Penal Code. The pair, who have become heroes of the LGBTQ community in their country will be felicitated by the University of Virginia and the Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello, the official residence of Thomas Jefferson on April 13, 2023. Currently spearheading a marriage equality case to be heard by the Supreme Court of India this spring, Guruswamy and Katju were included in TIME magazine’s list of 100 most influential people of 2019. Commenting on the recipients, University of Virginia School of Law, dean Risa Goluboff said, “Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katju have worked tirelessly to advance equality and LGBT rights in India, the world’s largest democracy.” Senior advocate and Oxford alumnus Guruswamy was the B.R. Ambedkar Research Scholar and lecturer at Columbia Law School from 2017-19. The Harvard graduate has been featured in Foreign Policy’s 100 Global Thinkers List and was honored by Harvard Law School in 2019, as part of Women Inspiring Change. Lawyer Katju has earned degrees from the National Law School of India University and Columbia Law School, where she was a Human Rights Fellow and a recipient of the Women’s International Leadership Program Fellowship at International House. She also received Columbia Law School’s Herman N. Finkelstein Memorial Fellowship, according to her profile. While in Charlottesville to receive their medals, the lawyers will participate in a conversation with Goluboff on April 12 in the Law School’s Caplin Pavilion. Indian lawyers Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katju. Image - University of Virginia STAFF REPORTER I ndian-origin Raju Bheemanahalli Rangappa, an assistant research professor of crop stress physiology at Mississippi State University (MSU) was awarded the American Society of Agronomy (ASA) Early Career Award for his outstanding contribution to the field of agronomy. Karnataka-born Rangappa was nominated for the award by fellow MSU agronomist and W.L. Giles Distinguished professor Raja Reddy. “Raju joined the plant and soil sciences department in 2020 and built a cutting-edge research program, based on the ever-changing needs of the agricultural community, in a very short time,” Reddy said in his nomination. Rangappa has been an ASA member since 2016 and currently serves as associate editor of the two flagship journals published jointly by ASA, Crop Science Society of America and Soil Science Society of America: Agronomy Journal and Agrosystems, Geosciences & Environment, MSU shared in a news release. Reacting to the news, Rangappa said, “Receiving the 2023 Early Career Award from the ASA Southern Branch is a source of immense pride. This recognition serves as an inspiration to consistently strive for excellence in all that I do.” aised on his family’s farm in Bheemanahalli, Karnataka, India, Rangappa is a high-impact researcher with numerous peer-reviewed scientific articles in Agronomy. In 2019, he earned the Outstanding Young Scientist Award from the Indian Society for Plant Physiology. The Early Career Award recognizes individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the field of agronomy with a certificate and prize money of US$2,000. Raju B. Rangappa receives ASA award Image - MSU Assistant research professor of crop stress physiology at MSU, Raju Bheemanahalli Rangappa.

Founding Engineer Debarghya Das “A high-skilled Indian immigrant in early 00s will likely naturalize in the US at age 50 if they followed the nearperfect legal path. If you came to the US later than that, it could take up to is 150yrs — you’ll never get it.” Diaspora Talks Army officer Preet Chandi “No matter where we are from, no matter what we look like, we can achieve anything we want. I want to inspire others to push their boundaries and encourage them to believe in themselves. I want to break that glass ceiling!” EDITORIAL There is a lot of chatter in international circles on the diplomatic offensives that are being witnessed in recent times prompting some to wonder if the international system is in for a global and regional re-ordering. And heading the list of news in recent days are the posturings of China and its President Xi Jinping. First came the headline of Saudi Arabia and Iran sinking their differences thanks to the brokering of Beijing; and later came President Xi’s visit to Russia and the further cementing of bilateral relations especially at a time when the West led by the United States is quite serious of bleeding Vladimir Putin in his invasion of Ukraine. In Asia India was a scene of hectic diplomatic activity over the last three weeks—the visits of the leaders of Italy, Germany, Australia and Japan; the Ministerials leading up to the Summit of the G 20 this September, the QUAD meeting of foreign ministers. And the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida using his New Delhi visit to announce a US$ 75 billion program to step up security and infrastructure projects in the Indo Pacific; and quietly paying a visit to Ukraine. For quite some time there was this criticism that Kishida is the only leader of the G 7 yet to visit Kyiv; he made this up by a closely guarded trip to the Ukrainian capital by train from Poland. In May Japan plays host to the G 7 summit at Hiroshima where Kishida has said that he would be inviting seven other non-G7 leaders. Already India has been invited and South Korea is expected to be among those exclusive invitees; and the President of Ukraine will be attending the meeting virtually. After this G 7 summit all eyes will be in India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi making an official trip to Washington DC sometime in June or July; and soon thereafter in September India will host the Summit of the G 20 in New Delhi. Whether it is G 7 or G 20 the conflict in Ukraine will be one of the key topics of discussion perhaps even a source of major distraction if sufficient progress has not been registered to find ways to find a solution. Apparently China has put forth a document on ways to come to terms with this conflict that has exacted a horrific toll, principally on Ukraine; but few in the comity of nations are in the know of the details. All that is being said is that this plan is closer to the Russian perception which naturally will be a non starter in Ukraine and to the West. Further if Beijing’s so-called proposals are a blueprint to its own designs in Taiwan or transgressions of international law these again will get a cold shoulder. To the Modi government, China’s recent diplomatic push towards Russia and in the Middle East are clear signs of the re-making of an international order that requires careful attention. As it is there is considerable unease in New Delhi of the China-Pakistan nexus; now the issue of Beijing and Moscow becoming “all weather” friends and Beijing’s gains in Riyadh and Teheran are something to worry about. Undoubtedly China frowns upon India getting closer to the United States not just bilaterally but in the context of the Quad and the AUKUS (Australia-United Kingdom-United States); but Xi will have to ask himself the question of who is responsible for all this ‘excitement’ in the Indo Pacific. THE CHURNING OF INTERNATIONAL POLITICS 12 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 To the Modi government, China’s recent diplomatic push towards Russia and in the Middle East are clear signs of the re-making of an international order that requires careful attention. The State Visits Saga While multiple State Visits led to significant developments in India, the world also had eyes on Moscow (L) Japan PM Fumio Kishida meets PM Modi (R) Chinese President meets Xi Jinping Russian President Putin PM Modi, Japan PM Kishida have Golgappa & Chai at Buddha jayanti park in Delhi PM Modi & Australian PM Antony Albanese attend Border Gavaskar trophy match in Ahmedabad PM Modi holds bilateral talks with PM Giorgia Meloni of Italy at Hyderabad House In Moscow China’s Xi Jinping met President Vladimir Putin in what Beijing called a “trip for peace.” German Chancellor Olaf Scholz meets PM Narendra Modi

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 13 Narasimhan is set to lead the Starbucks annual shareholder meeting thursday, March 23. Rahul Roy chowdhury is the current Global head of product, and will serve as the CEO starting May 1. Laxman Narasimhan takes office as Starbucks CEO SUMAN VARANDANI Laxman Narasimhan assumed the role of Starbucks’ Chief Executive Officer effective March 21, 2023. He succeeded company founder and now former CEO, Howard Schultz. Narasimhan, who has 30 years of experience leading global consumer goods businesses and advising retail, grocery, restaurant and e-commerce companies, also joined the company’s board of directors. He is set to lead the Starbucks annual shareholder meeting thursday, March 23. “The board wants to express our sincerest thanks to our founder, Howard Schultz, for selflessly picking up the leadership mantle when asked—forgoing compensation and putting aside his own pursuits—for the love of our company and its partners,” Mellody Hobson, Independent Starbucks Board of Directors’ chair said in a statement. “We would not be where we are without him.” About the new CEO, Hobson said: “Laxman’s intensive immersion into the business coupled with his extensive experience as a proven brand builder, innovator and operator have uniquely prepared him to lead Starbucks into its next phase of growth. This immersion has deepened Laxman’s understanding of Starbucks’ culture and values. In this time of learning and listening, he has already won the hearts and minds of our partners around the world.” Starbucks was recently named the most valuable restaurant brand for the 7th consecutive year by Brand Finance. The company saw a 47 per cent stock price increase since the Q2 FY22 earnings call through the Q1 FY23 earnings call. I am humbled to officially step into my role as Starbucks’ chief executive officer, leading our incredible team of more than 450,000 green apron partners around the world. The foundation Howard has laid – building from scratch an iconic global brand fueled by a lasting passion to uplift humanity – is truly remarkable, and I am honored to have the opportunity to build on this deep heritage,” Narasimhan said and added, “As a human connection business, we have limitless possibilities to deliver for our partners, our customers, our investors and our communities through every cup and every connection. I am excited to work alongside our partners worldwide to unlock the limitless future of Starbucks.” Laxman Narasimhan succeeded company founder and now former CEO, Howard Schult . Image - Twitter @Starbucks BHAVANA P Grammarly, a San Franciscobased firm that provides artificial intelligence-based aid in writing English, including spelling, grammar, punctuation, and plagiarism checks, has named Rahul RoyChowdhury, of Indian descent, as its new CEO, starting May 1, 2023. In a public statement, the current CEO of Grammarly, Brad Hoover, shared, “After twelve years at the helm of Grammarly, I am passing the baton to our current global head of product, Rahul Roy- Chowdhury, who will become CEO on May 1” Hoover expressed confidence that Chowdhury would help the company reach new heights in its next phase, “Grammarly is a deeply technical, product-led company, Rahul’s product and technology background is a tremendous asset, and he is wellpositioned to help us navigate the path ahead.” Reacting to the news on social media Chowdhury said, “I joined Grammarly two years ago because of a deep belief in our mission to improve lives by improving communication. I’m honoured to serve that mission in a new capacity as Grammarly’s CEO, starting May 1. Our millions of users remain our north star as we continue solving their real communication challenges. Grammarly has been harnessing innovation in Al responsibly for over a decade, and we’re just getting started.” Prior to Grammarly, Chowdhury served as Google’s vice president of product management for 14 years, according to his LinkedIn profile. He has an MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Management, an MS in computer science from Columbia University, and a BA in mathematics from Hamilton College. Rahul Roy-Chowdhury appointed Grammarly CEO Rahul Roy Chowdhury, incoming CEO of Grammarly Image - Twitter @/Rahulrc

14 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 The new U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad is equipped to facilitate multiple operations ranging from consular to visa services US Consulate in Hyderabad moves to a new facility VIKAL SAMDARIYA The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad opened its new state-of-the-art multi facilities establishment in Telangana’s financial district, Nanakramguda, Hyderabad on March 20, 2023. Hyderabad houses the U.S. Consulate General representing the United States in the Indian states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. The new facility, built at a cost of US$340 million, is equipped to facilitate multiple operations ranging from consular to visa services, according to a statement. The new setup will offer biometrics appointments, and “dropbox” appointments (interview waiver). Speaking on the occasion, U.S. Consul General, Hyderabad, Jennifer Larson said, “At a cost of US$340 million, our new consulate facility in Hyderabad is an investment in the U.S. relationship with India. We look forward to increasing our staff – including visa officers – in order to continue expanding U.S.-India ties in the months and years to come.” On the opening of the new facility in Hyderabad, the US Department of State, Interim Spokesperson Vedanta Patel tweeted, “Yesterday, opened a new state-of-the-art facility in the city’s bustling Financial District. This new Consulate chancery represents a tangible investment by the United States in growing the U.S.-India bilateral relationship.” In 2022, Consulate General Hyderabad issued more than 18,000 student visas, while U.S. companies invested billions of dollars in the region’s tech, defense, aerospace, and pharmaceutical sectors, the embassy shared in a release on the opening of the new facility in Hyderabad. Located on a 12-acre site, the new consulate embodies the U.S. State Department’s mission to provide safe, secure, functional, and resilient facilities for U.S. diplomacy. The US$340 million construction project included US$70 million in local investment and employed a combined workforce of over 1,000 American, Indian, and third-country nationals, the embassy shared. Established in 2008 at the historic Paigah Palace, the U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad was the first U.S. diplomatic office to open in India since India’s independence. The U.S. Consulate General’s new state-of-the-art multi facilities set up in Nanakramguda, Hyderabad. Image - US Embassy in India

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 15 Chandrasekharan is being recognized both for his compassion as a clinician and proficiency as a researcher. Indian-origin pediatrician honored with ‘Physician of the Year’ award BHAVANA P The Western New York Perinatal Bereavement Network, Inc. (WNYPBN) will present the “Physician of the Year Award” to Praveen K. Chandrasekharan, a University of Buffalo (UB) doctor who specializes in providing care for newborns. Chandrasekharan, a UB Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences assistant professor of pediatrics and neonatologist is being recognised for his work as a researcher at the Jacobs School as well as a physician at John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital. The award citation notes that Chandrasekharan’s research “allows him to study factors which may impact viable and successful newborn pregnancy and delivery and prevention of neonatal demise.” It also recognises his connection with the bereaved families. Having lost his own child to miscarriage the pediatrician said in a statement published by the University, “Most of the time as a physician you’re not on the other side so you understand by knowledge empirically, but practically experiencing those feelings as a parent in the NICU helps you understand even more what a parent’s fears are. Since we had that loss, it makes you better able to help other parents because you know what it means to go through it.” “To get this award and to be appreciated in such a manner is a great honor, and it makes me very grateful. I am pleased and humbled at the same time,” he added. The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the NIH is currently funding Chandrasekharan with a R01 award. In the Jacobs School, he provides clinical and translational research mentoring to fellows, residents, and medical students. UB neontaologist Praveen Chandrasekharan, MD, and his wife, Munmun Rawat, MD, also a UB neonatologist, with their two young sons at Niagara Falls. Image - University of Buffalo Anand Selvakesari named COO of Citigroup VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndian-origin Anand Selvakesari, the head of consumer banking operations at Citigroup will be elevated to the role of the chief operating officer, the firm said in an internal memo. According to media reports, the bank announced, “Anand Selvakesari will become Citi’s chief executive officer with immediate effect and continue to lead personal banking and wealth management.” Having begun his career at Citi India in 1991, Selvakesari has over 30 years of experience in consumer banking, wealth management and commercial banking, across multiple markets globally. As CEO, the consumercentric banking expert was responsible for consumer banking business across 19 markets globally. Prior to that, he served as head of the U.S. Consumer division and led the delivery of a single, seamless client experience across retail banking, Citi retail services and branded cards. Under his leadership, Citi was recognized for three consecutive years as the Best Bank for High Net Worth Families (Kiplinger’s) and as the leader in Customer Satisfaction by the American Customer Satisfaction Index (2019). The Madurai native held a number of regional and country roles, including head of consumer banking for ASEAN and India and leading the consumer banking business in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. Madurai native, Selvakesari delivered eight consecutive quarters of revenue growth during his tenure at different Citi locations across the globe. Image- Citibank Anita Rani appointed Chancellor of Bradford University SUMAN VARANDANI British Indian TV presenter and broadcaster, Anita Rani, took over as the seventh chancellor of the University of Bradford during a ceremony held earlier this month. The 45-yearold Bradfordian took to the stage in a custom-made gown created by fashion designer Yashana Malhotra. Speaking on the day of her installation, the Indian-origin Sikh said, “The University of Bradford is about to move into a really exciting phase, I’m thrilled to be part of that journey, and that I get to be Chancellor during City of Culture 2025.” “Going to University completely changes your life, it opens your world up not only through education but the culture and people you get to meet – this is about instilling the next generation with confidence to step into the world,” she added while thanking her parents. Rani began her broadcasting career at the age of 14 and is best known for BBC One’s Countryfile and as a presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. In her speech, she also announced her plans to establish the Rani Scholarship, which will support young women get access to higher education. Lauding Rani’s love for the city and her dedication to education, Vice-chancellor, professor Shirley Congdon, said: “Anita’s installation marks a new chapter in the life of our university, a chapter that will be focused on catalysing our future like never before. “As a proud Asian woman from Bradford who has worked hard to overcome all kinds of challenges, Anita is an incredible role model for young people. Anita Rani is now the new Chancellor of the University of Bradford. Image - Instagram @itsanitarani

16 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 Gandhi’s expulsion was also condemned by Indian American lawmaker Ro Khanna. U.S. court convicts Goa cruise employee BHAVANA P Afederal district court in the United States sentenced Angelo Victor Fernandes, a cruise ship employee from Goa, India, to 188 months in prison for disseminating material containing child sexual abuse. The sentence was announced by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami acting special agent in charge, Michael E. Buckley and United States attorney, Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. Christopher Hudock, an assistant US attorney, handled the prosecution. T he 34-year-old was booked for sexually exploiting minors, and engaging in child pornography. According to a news release, he used an instant messaging programme to send Daniel Scott Crow 13 videos of child pornography between January 16 and April 30, 2022. Fernandes and Crow also spoke about setting up a trip for the latter to have sex with young children while abroad. In a separate conversation with an unnamed person, Fernandes discussed sexually abusing young children and his ability to procure youngsters for sex. Crow pleaded guilty to one count of enticement of a juvenile and one count of creation of child pornography. On December 12, 2022, he was sentenced to a 30-year prison term. The case was part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood, a national initiative to tackle the scourge of child sexual exploitation and abuse, announced in May 2006. Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm / Unsplash Fernandes was booked for sexually exploiting minors, and engaging in child pornography. Dark day for democracy: Indian Overseas Congress USA on Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification as MP STAFF REPORTER S enior Indian opposition leader, Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification as a member of the Lok Sabha is a “dark day for democracy in India”, George Abraham, vicechair of the Indian Overseas Congress, USA said on Friday. A Gujarat court on Thursday sentenced the former Congress chief to two years in prison for a 2019 defamation case over his controversial “why all thieves have Modi surname” remark. Gandhi’s disqualification notice was issued a day later despite him being granted bail and permission to appeal in the next 30 days. According to the Indian law a Member of Parliament (MP) is automatically disqualified upon conviction and sentencing of two or more years in jail. According to Abraham, the disqualification of Gandhi has ended the right to free speech and freedom of Indians everywhere. “Bringing a frivolous court case against a remark in the heat of a political campaign is shameful and not on par with the spirit of the constitution regarding freedom of expression,” he said. Questioning the integrity of the courts and the Narendra Modilec government, Abraham added, “What has just happened is not about Rahul Gandhi but about the future of democracy in India. The institutions Nehru and Ambedkar built with their vision to build a fair and equitable society are being undermined daily by those in power today. All the freedomloving people everywhere ought to be concerned.” Gandhi’s disqualification was also condemned by Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna. Terming the act as a “deep betrayal” of Gandhian philosophy, Khanna said on Twitter, “The expulsion of Rahul Gandhi from parliament is a deep betrayal of Gandhian philosophy and India’s deepest values. This is not what my grandfather sacrificed years in jail for.” Rahul Gandhi, leader of opposition. Image - Facebook/Indian National

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 17 Air India to reduce flight frequency to US BHAVANA P Air India will temporarily stop three weekly flights each to the airports of San Francisco and Newark in the United States, for the following three months, Campbell Wilson, the CEO of Air India, announced. Speaking at the CAPA India Summit, on March 20, 2023 the CEO said that the reduction of six weekly flights to the US is due to a crew shortage that is currently being addressed. Wilson announced that the airline would shortly hire 100 new B777 pilots and add 1700 commanders, 140 of whom will be foreigners. In the next 3-5 years there won’t be any shortages of pilots, he assured. At the summit, Wilson shared that “a lot is being done” to revamp the airline and improve traveler experience significantly. More than 20 aircraft were restored to operation in the previous year, he said adding that 470 additional mega orders would be delivered over the course of the following year. The CEO of Air India emphasized the difficulties brought on by supply-side limitations. He claimed that because of supply chain concerns, the renovation of Air India’s present fleet has taken longer than anticipated. Image - Air India

18 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 34 per cent of professional jobs in the UK was found to have people from Indian ethnicity. With roots in Chennai, India Rao migrated with his family to Melbourne in 1968. UK’s Indian diaspora outperforms Britons in education, jobs, home ownership Harish Rao appointed to Cricket Victoria board STAFF REPORTER Cricket Victoria, the governing body for cricket in the Australian state of Victoria, has officially confirmed Harish Rao’s appointment as a Director to the Board, which will come into effect from May 22 or earlier. Reacting to the news, Rao, who will be the first Indian Australian appointed to the board in its almost 150-year history said, “I’d like to thank the Board of Cricket Victoria for this opportunity. Cricket holds a special place in the heart of so many Victorians. It is a privilege to be able to work with Cricket Victoria and drive the continual growth of the game in Australia.” Currently, the executive director of the Australia-India Chamber of Commerce, Rao also serves on the board of the University of Melbourne’s Australia India Institute and has spent two decades developing bilateral relations between India and Australia. An experienced business leader, Rao also served as the global head of business development for Sundaram Financial Group and is currently its advisory board chair. With its headquarters in Chennai, India, Sundaram is a US$5 billion financial services corporation. Welcoming the appointment, Cricket Victoria chair Ross Hepburn said, “On behalf of the Board, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to Harish at Cricket Victoria. Harish has extensive global business expertise, built on the strong cultural ties shared between our nations.” “In addition to his success in the business sector, Rao has been involved in a range of global health, arts and philanthropy projects during his career. We look forward to having Mr Rao’s expertise in supporting our growth as an organization,” Hepburn added. SUMAN VARANDANI The Indian Diaspora in the U.K. performed better than the British nationals in education and has one of the highest percentages of working professionals, the latest release of data from the 2021 census revealed. According to the figures, Indians along with the Chinese community have the highest levels of education and the highest proportion of professionals among all ethnic groups in the UK. “More than half (52 per cent) of people in the “Indian” ethnic group had a higherlevel qualification (level 4 and above),” the census found. At least 34 per cent of professional jobs had people from Indian and Chinese ethnic groups, the highest recorded by the census. These professions included doctors, teachers and lawyers. Indian people working as managers, directors or senior officials accounted for 13 per cent equal to the White Britsh population. In the area of homeownership the Indian ethnic group took the top spot (71 per cent) followed by white British at 68 per cent. “Around 63 per cent of individuals answering the census lived in a home that was owned by someone at that address. Home ownership was most common for people who identified as Indian,” the Census said. Participants of the study were also asked to rank their health on a scale of “very good” to “very bad” for the census. Around 48 per cent of the general population reported having “very good” health, while 1.2 per cent reported having “very bad” health. The poorest health was seen in white Irish and white gipsy populations. Indian diaspora in the UK. Image - Twitter @HCI_London Ontario to enhance immigration by 2025 BHAVANA P According to a deal struck with the federal government to expand the Immigrant Nominee Program, Ontario will double the number of economic immigrants it accepts. The province will have more than 18,000 slots available under the programme in 2025, according to the announcement made today by the federal and provincial ministries of immigration. When the province was permitted to bring in 9,000 immigrants under the programme in 2021, Ontario’s Minister of Employment and Immigration Monte McNaughton had proposed doubling that number. With the new agreement, Ontario will welcome 16,500 immigrants in 2023, more than 17,000 in 2024, and more than 18,000 in 2025, up from the program’s initial cap of 9,750 immigrants in 2022. “Today’s announcement is a significant win for the people of Ontario and will help us control our economic destiny by selecting more of the skilled immigrants who we know are well-placed to succeed and build stronger communities for all of us,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. The Ford administration claims that among the individuals hired through the allocation from the previous year were 3,900 skilled crafts workers, 2,200 software and IT professionals, 1,000 truck drivers, and more than 100 nurses and personal support staff. In particular, the number of healthcare employees, according to McNaughton, will alter significantly. Federal Immigration Minister Sean Fraser said this year’s annual immigration levels plan is determined to address long term issues. He said, “As we remain focused on addressing the acute labor market shortages and building a strong economy into the future, one thing remains certain: immigration is a key part of the solution,” he said adding “As Canada’s flagship regional economic immigration program, the Provincial Nominee Program’s increasing growth will support the long-term well-being of communities in Ontario.” Photo by Jason Hafso / Unsplash Harish Rao recently got appointed to cricket Victoria board Image - Australia India Institute

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 19 Who is Amrita Ahuja named in Hindenburg’s latest report? STAFF REPORTER I ndian American Amrita Ahuja has come under the scanner after US firm Hindenburg Research released a report concerning Jack Dorsey’s, payments firm, Block Inc. “Our 2-year investigation has concluded that Block has systematically taken advantage of the demographics it claims to be helping,” Hindenburg said in the report. The firm has accused Block cofounders Dorsey and James McKelvey along with executives, including CFO Amrita Ahuja, and the lead manager for Cash App, Brian Grassadonia, of “dumping millions of dollars in the stock.” The research suggests that the company overstated Cash App’s transacting user base, a key metric performance. It quoted the CFO, “Ahuja explained that Cash App achieves this low cost due to network effects because a customer can bring a new customer into Cash App at little to no cost for us’ by inviting them to engage in a Cash App transaction. We strongly suspect Block’s reported cost of acquiring each new transacting active account is misleadingly low because single individuals may set up dozens or hundreds of accounts, including fake or scam accounts.” Who is Amrita Ahuja? The daughter of Indian immigrants, Ahuja has served companies including Morgan Stanley, McKinsey & Company and Fox Networks Group, before joining Block in 2019. She played a key role in launching Hulu, a streaming service during her tenure at Fox. Appointed the CFO of Block in 2019, Ahuja went on to become the chief operating officer (COO) in February 2023. She is also the chairperson of Block’s industrial bank Square Financial Services, which is an independently governed subsidiary of Block. Named to the Forbes 50 Over 50 list in 2021, Ahuja is an alumnus of the London School of Economics, Duke University and the Harvard Business School. Amrita Ahuja, CFO, Block Image: Twitter/@AmritaAhuja Beam Therapeutics appoints Gopi Shanker as Chief Scientific Officer SUPRIYA SINGH Beam Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing precision genetic medicines based in Massachusetts has announced the appointment of Gopi Shanker, as its chief scientific officer. A scientific leader with more than 20 years of drug development experience in novel genetic medicine modalities, Shanker will report to Giuseppe Ciaramella, president of Beam, who has broad oversight of Beam’s research, manufacturing, regulatory, quality and pharmaceutical sciences organizations. “Gopi’s extensive background of leading drug discovery and development efforts, including in the area of gene therapy, is impressive, and we look forward to applying that expertise to our current and future programs,” Ciaramella said. Shanker joined Beam from Tevard Biosciences, where he served as CSO. Prior to Tevard, he spent eight years at Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, where he served as head of neuroscience, said the release by Beam Therapeutics. “A key focus for me and my team will be progressing our base editing platform and evaluating potential new programs across each of our strategic pillars of haematology, immunology- oncology and genetic diseases,” Shanker said of his new role. Image- LinkedIn/@gopishanker Dr Shanker is a scientific leader with more than 20 years of drug development experience in novel genetic medicine modalities.

20 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 Wipro has about 20,500 employees located across US, Canada, and LATAM (Mexico and Brazil). Wipro establishes America headquarters in East Brunswick, NJ SUMAN VARANDANI L eading Indian IT and business services firm, Wipro Limited announced the opening of its Americas Headquarters in East Brunswick, New Jersey to serve clients in the United States who make up nearly 60 percent of its global revenues. According to an official statement, the firm’s CEOs of the Americas, Srini Pallia, and Suzanne Dann, as well as Amit Choudhary, COO, will be based out of the new office. “The opening of Wipro’s Americas Headquarters further underscores that the companies of tomorrow are planting their flags in New Jersey today. By locating its new multi-million-dollar office in the heart of our state, this renowned tech giant will significantly boost economic activity in New Jersey,” New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said. Srini Pallia, CEO – of Americas 1, Wipro Limited said, “The Wipro America’s Headquarters launch represents a new era, as we place great importance on settling our workforce in an environment that fosters innovation and collaboration to drive the business forward in the region.” Wipro’s executive team, staff, customers, and government officials were part of the inauguration of the new office, which will serve clients across industries such as banking and financial technology, life sciences, healthcare, retail, telecommunications, media and entertainment, gaming and tech, travel and transportation, energy and utilities, and manufacturing. “The launch of our new workspace provides employees, clients, and partners a tremendous location to meet, collaborate, and innovate. The space has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate our client’s growing needs for collaboration while delivering outstanding employee and client experiences. We couldn’t be prouder of our new workspace and its reflection of our longstanding and significant investments in the Americas,” Suzanne Dann, CEO of Americas 2 said. Representational image of a Wipro office. Image - Twitter @wipro Pear 36, 299 South street ny 10002, Booth 408, 417 n 419

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 21 Indian American renamed to University of Central Florida Board Meet Rakesh Ranjan, a Hindi professor in the U.S. MADHU BALAJI I ndian origin professor Rakesh Ranjan, beleives that learning Hinfi in the United States gives Indians in the country an opportunity to connect to their roots. “When Indians started coming to the US in the 60s and 70s, they did not expect their kids would want to learn Hindi,” Ranjan said, and added, “The goal was to assimilate. But, when these kids got to college, they wanted to connect with where they came from, and learning Indian languages was a wonderful way to do that,” the senior lecturer and director of the Hindi-Urdu Program at Columbia University said in a statement published by University of Michigan. In an effort to make the language more accessible to college students in the United States, Professor Ranjan visited the University of Michigan among many universities and educational institutions to discuss the opportunities and challenges of teaching Hindi in the US. “There is not a set curriculum or standards for teaching Hindi in the US. Many professors don’t have a background in teaching. They are just native Hindi speakers,” Ranjan explained. An active member of the Hindi-Urdu teaching community in America, Ranjan has been teaching graduate and undergraduate students Hindi for over fifteen years. During that time, he has designed and supervised many projects at the national level. Ranjan serves as the director of the STARTALK Hindi Audio-Visual project of Columbia University, which breaks down the ancient language for beginners. According to the website, it “introduces 42 thematic modules based on real-life situations with varied linguistic, social, and cultural contents. The short clips offer samples of Hindi speech in formal and informal settings.” The PhD holder from University of Delhi started as chief of the Hindi Language Program of the American Institute of Indian Studies (AIIS) in Varanasi, India in 1993. He then joined the Hindi Program at Emory in 1999. According to his profile, Hindi pedagogy, issues of heritage learners and the South Asian diaspora are a few of his interests. VIKAL SAMDARIYA F lorida Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of IndianAmerican CEO Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad to the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees. His current tenure is set to expire on June 1, 2023. An Experienced business leader, Gaekwad is the founder - chief executive officer of NDS USA, an IT and cloud services company, and the founder of Danny G Management, which owns and operates various restaurants and hotels, in the country. Gaekwad is the immediate past chair of the Visit Florida Board of Directors and currently serves on the Enterprise Florida and Space Florida Board of Directors. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in India, the governor’s office added. Recipient of the Pride of India Award in 2016, Gaekwad was recognized by the then Florida Governor Rick Scott with the “One Million Jobs” certificate of appreciation for his contribution in “helping Florida job creators add 1 million jobs between December 2010 and December 2015.” Born in Baroda, Gaekwad came to the United States with his wife Manisha in 1987 to realise his American dream. In the past three decades, he has served in a variety of public, private and nonprofit leadership roles including executive board member, Enterprise Florida Board of Directors and vice chairman, Marion County Planning and Zoning Commissioner. the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad. Image - Website/Danny Gaekwad Gaekwad is a firstgeneration IndianAmerican entrepreneur and community leader based in Ocala, Florida. His reappointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate as per established practice. An active member of the Hindi-Urdu teaching community in America Ranjan is credited for designing and supervising many Hindi projects at the national level in the country. Professor Rakesh Rajan Image: University of Michigan

22 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 IIT-Kanpur and University of California to undertake collaborative research SUPRIYA SINGH The Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur and the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) USA, signed a memorandum of understanding for joint academic and research collaborations during a ceremony held at IIT-Kanpur. The formal agreement, which paves the way for future collaborations in key areas of research between the two institutes, was signed by professor Abhay Karandikar, director, IIT- Kanpur, professor, Dhirendra Katti, dean of International Relations and Dr Cynthia Larive, chancellor, UCSC and Becky George, assistant vice provost of Global Engagement at UCSC. Calling the MoU a progressive step, Karandikar said, “The MoU marks a significant step in IITKanpur’s relentless efforts to forge joint international collaborations across domains. We are confident that this partnership will create new opportunities for our students and faculty members in the form of symposiums, exchange programs, joint publications, and so on.” The research collaborations will be undertaken in the areas of Computer Science and Engineering, and Biological Sciences and Bioengineering. The partnership will provide opportunities for both institutes to share their expertise, knowledge, and resources to further research and development in these fields, IIT-Kanpur said in a news release. Faculty exchange between the two institutes will also occur as part of the agreement, which will help researchers to work collaboratively on important research initiatives, leveraging the strengths of each institution to address complex scientific challenges, the release said. Image- Twitter/@karandi65 The MoU which was signed at a ceremony held at IIT-Kanpur paves the way for future collaborations in key areas of research between the two institutes. With the cost of college and student loan debt on the rise, the legislation would help ensure that students receive the quality education and meaningful career opportunities in colleges. Krishnamoorthi joins senators to protect students from worthless degrees VIKAL SAMDARIYA I ndian- American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi along with senators Jeff Merkley and Dick Durbin introduced legislation to protect students from predatory forprofit college schemes by ending federal financial aid for unaccredited degree programs, a news release from his office stated. The Protecting Students from Worthless Degrees Act of 2023 aims to ensure that students receive the quality education and meaningful career opportunities and are prevented from wasting their financial resources on degrees that offer no professional benefit. Commenting on the proposed legislation, Krishnamoorthi said, “Even as American students spend enormous amounts of time, money, and energy to obtain a college degree, many complete their program only to learn that they lack the prerequisites to start their career.Our legislation will ensure that taxpayer dollars only go to programs that fulfill their commitments to their students while cutting off funding for higher education institutions that offer inadequate or predatory programs.” According to Senator Merkley, “Higher education should be a path to the American Dream, but that dream is shattered if students graduate with worthless degrees and mountains of debt.” “Our bill protects students from these for-profit college scams by prohibiting federal student aid dollars from going to programs that don’t meet the professional licensure requirements and leave students with mountains of debt and no job prospects,” Senator Durbin emphasized. The legislation is endorsed by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS), and the National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients). In this image from video, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., speaks on the floor of the House of Representatives at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Thursday, April 23, 2020. (House Television via AP) Image and caption (courtesy)- WGN Radio

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 23 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

24 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 Philadelphia's Rajasthani community celebrates Gangaur at Bharatiya Temple SUPRIYA SINGH Rajasthan’s important Gangaur Festival was grandly celebrated by the Rajasthani community of Philadelphia at Bharatiya Temple in Philadelphia,United States. The celebrations, led by temple president Nand Ji Todi and trustee Ravi Murarka, was attended by Varun Jeph, Deputy Counsul General of India in New York, Prem Bhandari, president of Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) and about 300 to 400 Rajasthani families. Traditional cultural activities, performances, local and folk dances, and Rajasthani delicacies were part of the festivities. Indian government’s millet initiative was also promoted at the event, with the families pledging to observe Monday as millet day in their homes. Rajasthani kids born in America prepared millet dishes and showcased the health benefits of the coarse grain which greatly impressed Prem Bhandari, a news release noted. All images- Ravi Murarka This year’s event was conducted and organized by the Philadelphia Rajasthani Mandal (PARAM). Children prepared millet dishes and showcased cultural performances Women taking part in the festivities in front of the temple

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। New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 25 Some users urged the fast-food company to introduce the burger option in their cities and countries as well, including in New Jersey and the U.K. SUMAN VARANDANI The world’s largest food chain, McDonald’s introduced India’s famous “McAloo Tikki” burger to its menu in Chicago tickling the taste buds of many Indians living in Chicago. The vegetarian burger made from potatoes, peas and samosa seasoning is a popular item in McDonald’s India. The fast food company said that the burger will be available at McDonald’s restaurants in Chicago, United States. Saurabh Dak, a Chicago-based food blogger, revealed the news on Instagram. The caption read, “McAloo Tikki in the USA is true globalisation!” The video soon went viral with the desi diaspora in the United States welcoming the news. One user commented, “Finally the day has come people thought I was foolish to look for this option in MCD US back in 2016.. little did they know that I was way ahead of time.” “OMG. McAloo Tikki burger is MY CHILDHOOD MEMORY FROM INDIA. I crave it all the time,” Another user rejoiced. Many users also urged the fast-food company to introduce the burger in other cities and countries as well, including in New Jersey, Canada and the U.K. However, it remains unclear which location in Chicago will feature the new addition. Several Indians commented asking Saurabh to reveal the location so they could visit the restaurant and take a bite of their favorite version of the burger. McDonald’s has introduced its Indian version burger at a restaurant in Chicago, United States. Image - Twitter @McDonalds Mcdonald’s Chicago gets McAloo Tikki; Desis rejoice

26 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 India to host Global Tourism Investors’ Summit SUPRIYA SINGH Under the aegis of India’s G20 presidency, the Union Ministry of Tourism will organise the country’s first threeday Global Tourism Investors’ Summit (GTIS) in Delhi between May 17-19, 2023. Making the announcement at a round table interaction with heads of missions, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North Eastern Region G. Kishan Reddy, stated that the current investment landscape of the country makes it an appropriate destination for investment in various sub-sectors of the Indian tourism industry such as hospitality and lodging, wellness tourism, adventure tourism, ecotourism and rural tourism. Arvind Singh, Secretary, of the Ministry of Tourism, mentioned that in order to showcase investible opportunities to investors, till now 25 states have shared 350 plus investable projects with a total investment potential of around US$ 7.7 billion with the Ministry of Tourism. He revealed that GTIS will also have several knowledge sessions focused on topics such as sustainability, digitalization, technology, insights, state-specific issues, and other subsectors of tourism. These sessions will facilitate business-to- business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) engagements. K B Kachru, member of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) National Committee on Tourism and Hospitality, stated that GTIS is the right platform for all the tourism and hospitality industries operating outside India to come, witness the huge Indian market and leverage the available investment opportunities. A total of 42 foreign missions participated in the interaction. The G-20 Presidency will give India’s tourism sector an opportunity to highlight India’s tourism offerings and share India’s tourism success stories on a global stage, a news release noted. Image- Pib 25 states have shared 350 plus investable projects with a total investment potential of around US$ 7.7 billion ahead of the event. Top US banks’ deposits on average, have been insured to the tune of around 50-55 per cent very low as compared to Indian banks. Indian bank deposits are better protected than in U.S: Report SUMAN VARANDANI According to a State Bank of India research smaller bank deposits in the United States are less protected than in India. The smaller bank deposits are insured in the U.S upto a maximum of 40 per cent while in India the deposits with the regional rural banks, cooperative banks, and local area banks are better insured at 82.9 per cent, 66.5 per cent, and 76.4 per cent respectively. Titled, Ecowrap, the research by the State Bank of India’s Economic Research Department, was carried out after analyzing insured customer deposits across multiple geographies. It revealed that US’s top 10 banks’ deposits are insured in the range of 38.4-66 per cent. Top US banks’ deposits on an average, have been insured to the tune of around 50-55 per cent. Author of the report, Soumya Kanti Ghosh, group chief economic adviser, State Bank of India, said. “Further, our ratio of foreign claims to domestic claims is also least among countries signifying that our banking and financial system is very disciplined and no international balance sheet contagion can start from India. Maturity wise also, International claims on India are the least among major countries.” The findings come just days after RBI governor Shaktikanta Das said that India’s banking system continues to be stable and resilient despite the recent tremble in the banking sector globally. “We feel the fissures of the present shock, after a year of war and three years of the pandemic, may prove to be quite a costly affair for the health of beleaguered European banking system going forward even as ECB continues branding Euro area banking sector as resilient, with strong capital and liquidity positions, as on September 2022, not factoring the rise in borrowing costs and the resultant decline in demand, along with tighter credit standards, all leading to a North Malabar Gramin Bank in Kottiyam, India. vortex,” Ghosh added. Image - Twitter @RRB_India

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 27 VIKAL SAMDARIYA Yoga exhibits unique benefits as a pain management system, according to the findings of a research paper published by the US-based Chopra Foundation, founded by renowned author and well-being advocate Deepak Chopra. The peer-reviewed paper, titled “Yoga and pain: A mindbody complex system”, considers the interplay between different factors involved in pain and highlights the potential benefits of yoga for pain relief. According to the study, the ancient Indian art of Yoga has for centuries been used as a treatment for pain, especially chronic pain. “Our team has worked tirelessly to uncover new insights into the complex systems involved in pain and to offer practical recommendations for incorporating yoga into pain management treatment plans,” Chopra said terming the research a”significant scientific accomplishment.” He added that the findings of the research paper will help Yoga to be incorporated into treatment and pain management plans. As the paper blends the traditional art of yoga with modern day science, it has received praise from from the medical and scientific communities. Describing the study as an innovative approach to the nature of pain management, co-author Ryan Castle said, “By recognizing the interplay between different factors involved in pain and by incorporating yoga into treatment plans, we can offer more effective care to patients and improve both the quality and duration of their lives.” The study was conducted by a team of distinguished researchers and experts in the field of mindbody medicine Yoga viable option for pain management finds study

28 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 Sunil Grover’s “United Kacche” a take on life of illegal immigrants SUMAN VARANDANI Popular Indian comedian Sunil Grover will be playing the lead role in an upcoming web series titled “United Kacche”, the trailer of which was released on March 23. The comedy-drama set to premiere on the OTT platform Zee5, is based on the struggles of illegal immigrants in foreign nations. Grover will be seen playing the role of Punjabi Tejinder ‘Tango’ Gill who shares the same dream as his ancestors of immigrating abroad. When presented with the opportunity, Gill abandons his life and moves to England on a tourist visa without hesitation. However, with no plans for what to do when his visa expires, what follows is a series of events that demonstrate that life as an immigrant is not a bed of roses. The series also stars Satish Shah, Sapna Pabbi, Nikhil Vijay, Manu Rishi Chaddha, Nayani Dixit, Diksha Juneja, Neelu Kohli, and Poojan Chhabra in pivotal roles. Produced by Yoodlee Films and directed by Manav Shah, the 8-episode series will premiere on ZEE5 on 31st March. Sunil Grover’s upcoming web series titled United Kacche. Image - Twitter @Zee5India Kacche is a slang for an illegal immigrant residing in a foreign country without legitimate paperwork The “Festival of India” in Kuwait was the first such event organised abroad by the Indian government after the pandemic. SUPRIYA SINGH Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Meenakshi Lekhi recently inaugurated the inaugural session of the “Festival of India” in Kuwait. The two-day event was organized by the Embassy of India in Kuwait under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Addressing the gathering, the minister emphasized that the “Festival of India” in Kuwait will strengthen the vibrant cultural ties between the two countries. She highlighted the strong historical relationship between India and Kuwait and appreciated the ongoing cultural exchange between the two countries. The event was the first “Festival of India” held abroad by the ministry after the pandemic. The Ministry of Information and Culture supported the festival with the support of the Government of the state of Kuwait and the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL). Renowned Indian cultural troupes performed at the final event organized at the Dar Al Athar Islamiya (DAI), Yarmouk Cultural Centre. The Qutbi Brothers presented a Qawwali performance, Hasan Khan and group displayed Rajasthani folk, and the Anirudh Varma Collective put up a fusion of Indian classical and contemporary music, a release by the ministry noted. “The troupes presented a picture of India’s syncretic civilization with their performances drawn from diverse regions, cultures and religions of India,” the Ministry said. Apart from the cultural performances, the Indian embassy organized the ‘Incredible India – Tourism Exhibition’ and the Indian Coffee tasting event for the Kuwaiti friends and diplomatic community on the final day. “Festival of India” held in Kuwait

New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 29 HERE'SYOUR CHANCETOBEADJ DIASPORA JOURNO With Indians in all corners of the world, there's never a dull moment! New India Abroad gives you the unique opportunity to capture such moments and be a journalist for your community. All you have to do is: Cover communitynews Sendusyourreport Waitforittobepublished Inform us about diaspora events in your area. You can cover both immediate and future events Send us a report with all the details and other material like images, audio/video clips, and interviews Our team will edit and publish your story in our paper & website with due credit given to you NOW ANYBODY CAN BE A DJ! New India Abroad prides itself in being a platform for the Indian Diaspora - Be it in the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East or Africa. Send your stories to [email protected] HERE'SYOUR CHANCETOBEADJ DIASPORA JOURNO With Indians in all corners of the world, there's never a dull moment! New India Abroad gives you the unique opportunity to capture such moments and be a journalist for your community. All you have to do is: Cover communitynews Sendusyourreport Waitforittobepublished Inform us about diaspora events in your area. You can cover both immediate and future events Send us a report with all the details and other material like images, audio/video clips, and interviews Our team will edit and publish your story in our paper & website with due credit given to you NOW ANYBODY CAN BE A DJ! New India Abroad prides itself in being a platform for the Indian Diaspora - Be it in the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East or Africa. Send your stories to [email protected]

30 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 The Indo-Canadian vocalist has delivered hits like Arabic Kuthu, Private Party and Chellamma with Anirudh. On July 13, 2023, the Major League Cricket venue, Grand Prairie Stadium, in Texas, will host the league’s historic inaugural match. BHAVANA P The first-ever draft for the first season of the United States’ Major League Cricket (MLC) was recently held at the Space Center Houston, which is part of the NASA Johnson Space Center. Six teams have drafted their players for the competition, which will take place this summer. Several Indian Premier League (IPL) team owners, including the Kolkata Knight Riders (Los Angeles), Chennai Super Kings (Texas), and Delhi Capitals (Seattle), have invested in or associated with Major League Cricket franchises. Prior to the draft, a number of MLC clubs disclosed their team names, logos, and high-performance alliances with some of the top cricket organizations in the world. The Seattle Orcas had the first pick in the domestic player draft after a random order draw was conducted in front of team representatives at the Westin Oaks Houston. Each team uild the core of their rosters, each team was asked to choose nine domestic players. A successful night at the inaugural @MLCricket Local U.S Player draft for @WSHFreedom at the NASA Space Centre Houston. Congratulations to all involved for putting on a fantastic event. https://t. co/itaurqTbNK pic.twitter.com/ kyiLXQqQhi — michael klinger (@ maxyklinger) March 21, 2023 The draft was conducted in “snake order,” which means that the team that selected last in the first round will select first in the second round. There were nine rounds in the draft, which did not permit trading of picks. In rounds one through five, each team had three minutes to make their decisions, and rounds six through nine, two minutes. The first match of the tournament will take place on July 13, 2023, at the Grand Prairie Stadium, in Grand Prairie, Texas with the final set for July 30, 2023. USA’s MLC hosts inaugural season draft in Houston Image - Twitter @/MLCricket Jonita Gandhi joins “Once Upon a Time” Anirudh World Tour in the US MADHU BALAJI Playback singer Jonita Gandhi will be joining Anirudh Ravichander’s upcoming “Once Upon A Time” World Tour in the United States, the organizers revealed. The Indo-Canadian vocalist said she is thrilled to be joining the tour with Anirudh and all talented musicians, singers, and dancers. “I cannot wait to share my music with fans across the US. It is always an incredible feeling to perform live and connect with people through my music, and I am looking forward to being part of such an exciting touring experience,” she added. Kash Patel, CEO of Kash Patel Productions, one of the organizers said, “Jonita is an incredible talent and a true experimentalist in her art. We are honored to have her join the US tour and can’t wait to see the magic she will bring to the stage.” The news release observed Jonita Gandhi as a rising star in the world of music, known for her versatility and hands-on different musical styles and languages. Her hit movies include 2 States, Kill Dil, and Happy New Year. She has earlier shared the stage with Sonu Nigam, A R Rahman, Anirudh, Salim-Sulaiman, and Amit Trivedi. The 33-year-old has also performed at major music festivals and events, including the IIFA Awards and the YouTube FanFest. Here’s the upcoming schedule of the tour: March 31, 2023 : EagleBank Arena, Washington, DC April 1, 2023 : Prudential Center, Newark, NJ April 7, 2023 : Curtis Culwell Center, Dallas TX April 9, 2023 : Gas South Arena, Atlanta, GA April 14, 2023 : Angel of the Winds Arena, Seattle, WA April 15, 2023 : Oakland Arena, Oakland, CA The tickets for the upcoming shows are on sale and can be purchased on: https:// anirudhtourusa.com/ Image- Instagram

Aries You have a temper, Aries, sometimes too much, and right now it can be a risk in the field of work because it can get you in trouble with a superior. There are people in this environment who are waiting for you and who can even act to create a confrontational situation. Control your emotions and your reactions, measure your words well and you will be able to get through these days of danger without inconvenience. If you have a business or a trade, the stars protect you. Dare to take action to prevent the competition from overtaking you. Your financial stability is assured. In the sentimental domain, you may feel a little disappointed by a specific attitude of your partner who, in your opinion, has not given you the importance you deserve. Try to be more understanding and less demanding. Maybe it’s just your perception. This person is very much in love with you and it hurts them that you think so without much basis. Taurus Never give up, Taurus. This is the advice that best suits your way of being and your current situation. You are persistent and you fight until the last minute, but you are sometimes assailed by this feeling of negativity which saps your will to continue. You may now feel that your efforts are wasted and that other less qualified people are gaining more recognition. But the truth is that your experience, loyalty, and character are valued. Try to negotiate to get what you think is right. It’s a good time to be listened to. The same thing happens to you in love. You are completely devoted to someone and you try to give them your best, even if it sometimes costs you a lot of effort. If you think he doesn’t like you or reciprocates, start asking yourself if it’s worth continuing. In any case, weigh the pros and cons before making such a drastic decision. Gemini You are bursting with energy, Gemini, but now you know how to channel it to make the most of it and achieve your goals. These few days will be most stimulating for all natives of Scorpio. It will be good for you to face a professional situation that could affect you negatively. In this environment, someone wants to fight and will try to provoke you in every way, so that it affects the prestige you currently enjoy. You will have to be respected. On the sentimental level, good times are to be expected for established relationships. This boundless energy gave wings to your passion and it’s always good for couples. The frictions of the past have been resolved and now harmony and stability reign. Your partner may surprise you with a proposal that will make you very happy. Cancer Don’t take things lightly, Cancer. You need to take precautions and measure your words carefully this week, because if you act on the first impulse or don’t stop to think about what you’re saying, you could have complications. This is especially important in the professional environment, because some people who are envious and jealous of your successes can juggle things to your disadvantage. You can circumvent all this by acting very carefully. Focus well on not making mistakes and seek support from people you trust. It is also possible that you are attracted to a person from this circle and that it is reciprocated. However, you must be careful to treat this beginning of a relationship with discretion and avoid making it public for the moment. Although it has good prospects for the future, the relationship could be subject to gossip and comments that would be detrimental to both of you. For now, until the situation is consolidated, you must keep it a secret. Leo Your charisma is on the rise, which, together with your entrepreneurial spirit, is an excellent combination for carrying out your projects. However, you will probably have to wait a while to see them come to fruition. On the sentimental level, a quiet week awaits you, but be aware that someone close to your partner is sending negative messages, which could cause conflict between the two of you. In reality, this relationship has a great future, but you must neutralize these messages or remove this person from your environment. Even if friction arises, you know the source. You are in a good period, give your partner the importance he deserves and convince yourself of the fantastic future you can have with him. Virgo An intense week awaits you, Virgo, with lots to do and little time to rest. But it will go very well for you because you have problems to solve and things to finish. You will finally be able to get rid of it. You should pay special attention to the people around you in the work environment. Some of them are not what they seem and gossip behind your back. Their goal is to ensure that you hear that your security will be compromised. Don’t give up and, above all, don’t show yourself weak for a moment, because that’s what they’re looking for. In the sentimental realm, some Virgo men and women will face a week of emotional ups and downs. Libra Keep your spirits up Libra, you’ll need it because the week won’t be easy at work. You will have a lot of work to do but you will find it difficult to concentrate. Maybe you have a person in mind, or maybe you just can’t stop thinking about certain topics. You are distracted and everyone notices it, especially your superiors. It’s not normal for you to make basic mistakes. If it’s the romantic side that distracts you, it may be because you feel like you’re unlucky in love. It’s not that, but the fact that for some time you’ve been choosing the wrong people to share your life with. You are guided by very superficial aspects and that is why you are disappointed. Listen to your intuition, which will always give you a clue in these cases, even if you choose to ignore it. Scorpio You start the week full of energy and wanting to devour the world, Scorpio, but you will have to moderate yourself due to external circumstances. So much drive will come in handy to finish everything you had in hand and the things you left “for later” but can’t be delayed any longer. This is also a good time to look for another job. Now you will not be lazy and you will have time to prepare a good CV, organize a good distribution and appeal to your business contacts. If you have already taken some steps in this direction, you could receive good news this week. In love, on the other hand, the week will not be easy. You may find yourself in the situation where your partner has gone too far with the trust and freedom you gave them. If you feel uncomfortable but are convinced that your love is solid, just let him know the limits. Think about everything before you speak, at the risk of regretting it later. Sagittarius This week you will be able to connect socially with many people, even if it is through the internet. Lately, you’ve been a bit depressed because you’ve been feeling isolated and quite lonely. It is likely that over the next few days you will receive more proposals and invitations than you can handle. Accept as much as you can, as it will do you good to boost your emotional health. At work, you are also having a good time and you could be rewarded with a promotion or a raise. You may be a little afraid of having to take on more responsibility, but this is the best way to improve yourself and move forward. You are on the right track in this area and not so much in sentimental matters. You may feel like you’re of little importance to your partner because he/she doesn’t consult you on all the decisions he/she has to make. Don’t overdo it. There are things that don’t concern you both that you can decide on your own. Don’t be so demanding. Capricorn You have many projects of all kinds planned for this week, but you may need to postpone them for a bit. Ripen them and leave acting for a few days from now. You might even be able to improve them. One of those plans may be to start looking for another job because you feel like you’ve been trying too hard for a long time and it hasn’t helped you grow professionally. In a few weeks, it might be a good time to find something more suited to your expectations. In love, if you are a Capricorn who has gone through a troubled period in this area, these days a new illusion will enter your life. Don’t get carried away by your anger and break down. Recover emotionally and rest assured that life has something better in store for you. Aquarius In the coming days, there will be a breakthrough in the financial and business sphere, which will bring you new and better opportunities, Aquarius. This is the time to organize your budget and set aside some money for savings, in case something unexpected happens later. In the field of work, you may be offered something that excites you, such as a professional trip, but that, for various reasons, you postpone it. At first, you will take it badly, but as the days go by, you will understand that this delay is beneficial to you and that everything happens for a reason, nothing is due to chance. On the sentimental level, you must try to avoid arguments with your partner because of the interference of his relatives in your relationship. It’s true that he gives them too much attention, but getting angry won’t make him understand. Be a little patient as he will realize the problem and fix it. Pisces You still don’t feel comfortable in your workplace. You believe that less qualified and less knowledgeable people occupy positions of greater importance and greater responsibility. What bothers you the most is that it happens because your superiors don’t really recognize your qualifications and knowledge. The source of the problem lies in your excessive modesty, which caused you not to demand your due. But there is still time to fight for it. Don’t give up so easily because other people will benefit. In the sentimental domain, now begins a cycle protected by the stars for the natives of Pisces who have a free heart at this time. It is a time of renewal of illusions and a time of reunion with love. If you’ve recently started a relationship, cast aside all fears and live day to day to the fullest. It can consolidate if you don’t spoil it with your doubts. Weekly Horoscope Sundeep Kochar Astrologer https://www.sundeepkochar.com New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023 31

32 New India Abroad Monday, 27 March, 2023