1JULY2016

Pg

RAMAN RAGHAV 2.0

MOVIE REVIEW

Vol. 8 Issue 15

NZs only Kiwi-Indian weekly

Auckland | Christchurch | Wellington | Hamilton | Palmerston North | Hastings | Invercargill

30

The Pulse of Kiwi-Indians since 2009

Kiwi Indian
Hall Of Fame
2016

www.iwk.co.nz

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1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Pg

New Zealand
What motivates
people to join
NZ Police?
Pg

22

Sports
Coach Kumble A new
role for the old horse

Pg

30

Entertainment
IIFA 2016 leaves
Madrid with
Bollywood high

Pg

20

India

India deserves to
be in NSG: US

Pg

24

World
Brexit A symptom
of discontent
against inequality
Pg

31

Face of the week

The young apprentice

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Glitz, glamour, stars and winners

The biggest celebration of the Kiwi-Indian community culminated in a

gala celebration. Here are some highlights of the evening for our readers. Compliments from our guests
Maya Shivam

he Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame finally came together at the Pullman Hotel on
June 23 at a gala event and dinner. Like each year, the whos who of the KiwiIndian community gathered to celebrate and applaud the achievements
of three exceptional individuals. This was the fourth edition of the Kiwi Indian
Hall of Fame and was appreciated by all who attended. In our cover story this
week, we bring the details of the evening and of our three winners who dazzled
the evening.

Clockwise from left: PM John Key signing

the silver tray, PM unveiling the special
issue, Indian High Commissioner to
New Zealand HE Sanjiv Kohli and Penny
Simmonds, SIT CE

PERFECT LIL INVESTMENT

RESIDENTIAL
HOME AND
SPACIOUS SHOP
1056 Paerata Road,
Pukekohe
A rectangular shaped site of 845m located within the developing residential village
of Paerata to the north of Pukekohe having road frontage to State Highway 22
Busy main road location
High traffic flow
Dairy and takeaway returning $31,500 plus GST
Three bedroom accommodation returning $21,840
An absolute beauty, call for inspection now
Auction:

12:00pm, Tues 12 July 2016 at Manukau Sports

Bowl, Te Irirangi Dr, Manukau (unless sold prior)
www.barfoot.co.nz/572435

Sanjay Vazirani

P. 022 460 6600 / B: 09 363 1244

E: s.vazirani@barfoot.co.nz

To the most amazing team at Indian Weekender. How wonderful

was this evening! Lots of love, colour, smiles, achievement.
Thank you so much!
Helen Tua
Fantastic event! So proud to be a part of it. Well put event.
Congratulations to the team for such a wonderful time.
Mandeep Kaur, NZ Police
Thank you, Indian Weekender. I came from Fiji. It was a great
experience. PM John Key said it all. Job well done.
Love you, Indian Weekender.
Mukesh Chand
Par excellence! Each year, the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame event has
achieved a milestone. Most rewarding, entertaining
and inspiring. God bless!
Subhag and Dr Ajit Swaran Singh
Such an inspirational group of award winners.
Jacinda Ardern, MP
Well organised, entertaining and short and sweet.
Thank you!
Nathan Saminathan
Fantastic evening! Fantastic publication!
Best wishes to Indian Weekender.
Penny Simmonds
Awesome event, IWK. Loved every bit of it.
Well done to the A-team.
ANZ
Celebrating success with humour. Wow!
Mayor Tim Shadbolt and Asha
Voice of the Indian community. Keep it up!
Counties Manukau Police
Thank you, for a beautiful evening and
congrats to the team and awardees!
Priyanca Radhakrishnan

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

The winners and their success stories

It was essentially, a night to celebrate the achievements of three Kiwi-Indians through the highest honours of the Kiwi-Indian communitythe
Kiwi Indian Young Achiever of the Year, the Kiwi Indian Unsung Hero and the big Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame
N
W I I DI A
N

KI

Kiwi Indian
Hall of Fame

he Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame was

instituted to recognise the unparalleled
achievements of an individual in their field
of endeavour that have brought name, fame
and glory not only to the individual but also
to the Kiwi-Indian community at large.
Through this award, Indian Weekender
provides a platform to acknowledge and
celebrate the success of these Kiwi-Indians.
The first inductee to the Hall of Fame was
Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, followed by Dr
Ajit Swaran Singh and Dr Kantilal Naranji
Patel. None of these individuals need any
introduction and are exemplary in their
own areas of endeavour. They were all
there to honour the Kiwi Indian Hall of
Fame 2016 inductee.

Dr C S Benjamin, Kiwi Indian Hall

of Fame 2016 inductee
Born in Tamil Nadu, India, Dr Chellaraj
Satyasdas Benjamin has worked as a
cancer specialist for the past 30 years at
the Auckland Public Hospital where he
has treated more than 500 patients a year.
He was the Clinical Director of Radiation
Oncology at Auckland Hospital where he
efficiently ran the oncology department
until September 2007. He has organised
several health expos for the community.
As the President of Auckland Indian
Medical Society for the past 15 years, he
represents them in several charity meetings
and annual medical conferences for
Indian doctors.
Dr Benjamin has made exceptional
contributions to the community in South
Pacific. He has worked with NZAID and
Ministry of Foreign Affairs for 10 years as
the coordinator of New Zealand Medical
Treatment Scheme for seven South Pacific
countries that includes Fiji, Samoa,
Tuvalu, Kiribati, Tonga, Solomon Islands
and Vanuatu. He is a regular visitor to the
Samoan capital and is well known for his

efforts to life public health in the country.

In 2007, he took 35 volunteers to Samoa
and saved 10 children with open heart
surgery that was performed for the first
time in the history of the country.
They performed 14 surgeries in 2008 and
the team performed these services for no
monetary value. In 2005, he was bestowed
with the title of Papalii by the Head of the

State,
Samoa.
The same year,
he played a major
role in establishing the first
Kidney Dialysis Unit in the country. Three
years later, he established the first Kidney
Dialysis Unit in Fiji.
His services in Samoa continued. He
coordinated the New Zealand Medical

N
W I I DI A
N

KI

Top left: Mr Giri Gupta, and Dr CS Benjamin accepting the

award from PM John Key; Top right: Dr Benjamin receives
the New Zealand Order of Merit from the then Governor
General Sir Anand Satyanand; Above: Dr Benjamin with
Samoan PM and Health Minister at the AIMS conference in
Samoa; Inset: Dr Benjamin with his family

Kiwi Indian
Unsung
Hero

he Kiwi Indian Unsung Hero was

instituted last year to honour
individuals who have gone above and
beyond their everyday life in their area of
endeavour. These are individuals who have
dedicated themselves to achieving and
engaging in their area that has benefited
their entire community and country
without a care for name, fame or glory for
themselves. These are heroes who have
gone unnoticed, and we seek to honour and
acknowledge them.

Ramesh Patel, Kiwi Indian

Unsung Hero of the Year

Ramesh Patel (left) accepting the award from Penny Simmonds

As a youngster, Mr Patel had a natural

flair in sport that developed him into one
of New Zealands most recognised Indian

sportsman and administrators. He started

playing hockey for St Lukes Hockey Club
in 1963 and soon gained a place in the

Treatment Scheme for Samoa for 10 years

and has been looking after the Samoan
Medical treatment scheme for more than
14 years. He also played an important
role in the formation of National Heart
Foundation six years ago.
Dr Benjamin is credited for organising
two OUM medical conferences and
two international medical conferences
in Samoa.
In 2006, he was awarded the
Certificate on Honour by
Helen Clark, the then
Prime
Minister
of
New Zealand. Two
years later, he was
honoured
with
Officer
of
the
New
Zealand
Order of Merit
for his services to
medicine and the
community.
Last
year,
Dr
Benjamin was awarded
the Order of Merit Samoa.
Currently, he is the Dean at
the Oceania University of Medicine,
the Clinical Director at Auckland Radiation
Oncology, Mercy Hospital; a consultant
oncologist at Auckland Hospital, and a
director at CS Benjamin Ltd and Universal
Medical and Surgical Care.
Auckland Hatch Cup and NZ Hatch Cup
tournament teams; thus commenced his
illustrious career in the sport.
But before he committed himself to
playing hockey for Auckland and New
Zealand, Mr Patel had a short stint with
Auckland Indian Sports club as a cricketer
where he was a part of the New Zealand
U-21 Brabin Cup tournament team.
The same year, Mr Patel was conferred
the New Zealand Herald Junior Sportsman
of the Year award.
As a sportsman, Ramesh was a
perfectionist at technique and a great team
member. He was part of the Auckland
Hockey team from 1971 to 1986.
He was the captain of the team from
198386. From 1972 to 1986, he played for
the New Zealand Hockey team where he
was the vice-captain from 198186. He was
selected for four Olympic Games for hockey
and was also selected into four World
Cup team for hockey. Mr Patel has been a
member of the New Zealand Indian Sports

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Above: Ramesh Patel (second row, third from left) with his team
Inset: Ramesh Patel with his wife

Associations,
representing
hockey teams since 1983,
captaining and playing in
a number of provincial
and
international
fixtures.
Outside
the hockey field,
he was the Chief
Executive of Hockey
New Zealand for
two decades.
For his outstanding
achievements
and
contribution to hockey, Mr
Patel received the Queens Service
Medal in 1988, and on June 23, Indian
Weekender presented him with the Kiwi
Indian Unsung Hero of the Year award.
Through his passion and commitment to
hockey, he has brought glory and fame to
the Kiwi-Indian community.

Otahuhu 23 Tamaki Avenue

Auction

Classic 1920's bungalow sitting on a very large 895m2 of freehold land makes for easy kiwi living.
Space for the kids to play at either end of the property... there aren't many like this left in Auckland.
This home features 3 bedrooms, open plan kitchen, living and dining with indoor outdoor flow. The
huge front and back yard has loads of grass to run and play on, a few fruit trees and even a spot for a
veggie garden for those with green fingers. To finish it off there is a free standing garage and a long
driveway to fit all the cars. Constructed from concrete block and weatherboard this property has
great bones. A perfect home to do up straight away or slowly over time. Perfectly liveable now but
some huge potential for you to stamp your mark on what will be a great property to live or invest in.
Its close proximity to schools, shops and the motorway helps make this a truly great home. Currently
renting for $450 a week and tenants happy to stay. Don't miss out! Call today!

7:00pm on 19 July 2016 at

Harcourts Mt Albert - 4 Mt Albert Road (unless sold
prior)
View Sat/Sun 12:00 - 12:30pm
www.harcourts.co.nz/MAE0706016

This document has been prepared to assist solely in the marketing of this property. While all care has been taken to ensure the information provided herein
is correct, we do not take responsibility for any inaccuracies. Accordingly all interested parties should make their own enquiries to verify the information.

Alex Lowther
M 021728611 P 09 815 8899
alex.lowther@harcourts.co.nz
David Findlay
M 0204445550 P 09 815 8899
david.findlay@harcourts.co.nz
JK Realty Group Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

http://mtalbert.harcourts.co.nz/MAE0706016

Cover story continued on Page 26

Licensed Grill & Bar, Great Ambience

Weekly Sales $8,000
Rent $856.38 (incl gst) per week
Asking: $250,000 plus stock
Indian Takeaway
Weekly Sales $4000
Long History, Busy Food Court
Asking: 59,500 plus stock
Hawkes Bay Dairy + Takeaway
Weekly Sales $17,000
Rent $500 per week.
Asking: $230,000 plus SAV
Hauraki Dairy
Weekly Sales $15,000
Rent: $966.66 per month
Asking: $180,000 plus stock

895sqm A 3 B 1 I

Owner's Cashing Up. Don't Delay!

Indian Spice Store & Grocery

Annual Sale $1.2M Profitable
Asking: $270,000 plus SAV

Standalone Appealing Caf

Weekly Sales $9,000
Asking: 220,000 plus stock

Spice Store + Dairy

Weekly Sales $9,000
Rent: $500 per week
Asking: $89,000 plus stock

Franchised Pizza Shop In City

Weekly Sales $4,000
Asking: 120,000 plus stock

Fruit & Veg Shop

Weekly Sales $8,000
Asking: 95,000 plus stock

Pizza Restaurant, South Auckland

Weekly Sales $7,000
Full training no chef required, profitable
Asking: $180,000 plus stock

Indian Takeaway
Closed Shop Huge Potential
Asking: $35,000 plus stock

Indian Takeaway, Auckland CBD

Weekly Sales $6500
Asking: 70,000 plus stock

Retail Option (Indian) Auckland CBD

Weekly Sales $7,000
Rent: $1610 per month incl gst
Asking: $95,000 plus stock

If you are considering the sale of your

business, please give Preeti a call on
021 02243202 so that we can arrange a
confidential, no obligation discussion

NEW ZEALAND

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Little Hands childcare for your

young ones
IWK Bureau

their full potential within the child

centred programme following
Te-Whaariki curriculum. The
childcare guides children to
become confident citizens of the
society and value their culture and
individuality, thus contributing to
in their holistic development.
Mr Manmohan Bhatia of
Little Hands childcare says,
Our philosophy at Little Hands
childcare and early learning
centre is that we believe children

learn through playing and

this arises from their daily
life experiences. We believe
todays children are tomorrows
leaders and we see children as
powerful, capable, confident and
independent learners. As they
say that a healthy mind lives in a
healthy body. So we provide fresh
cooked nutritional meals to the
children at our childcare.
Their
special
programme
transition to school is designed to
help children get ready for higher
schooling. The childcare is offering
free 30 hours sessions for three
to five years old and other special
offers for 03 year old. They
an open door policy and staff is
available answer any queries that
you may have anytime between
7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday
on 092799946 or contact Sunaina
Bhatia 0211212735.

and its benefits being recognised

around the world, BSCT endeavors
to introduce this art of healthy
living to the younger generation
as well.
Yoga is a 5,000-year-old
physical, mental, and spiritual
practice and is an invaluable gift
of Indias ancient tradition.
Yoga expert volunteer Ms
Apoorva demonstrated the asanas

in a fun way for the children. The

organisation believes that learning
would be sustainable when it is
accompanied with fun; it serves a
dual purpose.
Yoga becomes a part of the
routine for children who start
practising it from a young age.
Children with healthier lifestyle
would undoubtedly have an
influence on the societys future.

ith an aim to provide

affordable and high
quality
education
in a safe, caring and homely
environment to the children and
families of the community, Little
Hands childcare has started its
operation at 20 Middlemore
Crescent, Papatoetoe, next to the
Middlemore Hospital.
At Little Hands childcare, the
qualified staff are committed to
provide not only your kids a family
environment but also the families
an opportunity to strengthen the
bridge between their work and
family life.
Children are encouraged to
learn at their own pace in a
challenging environment that
allows them to explore, make new
discoveries, grow, thrive and reach

Little Hands childcare centre

BSCT observes International Yoga Day

IWK BUREAU

Attendees at the launch of Global IndiaNZ

IWK BUREAU

arlier this month, the

Lower
North
Island
Global
IndiaNZ
was
launched, attracting more than
a 100 people who were keen to
get involved.
Global IndiaNZ is an interest
group within the National Party
that aims to give New Zealanders
of Indian descent or birth a
bigger voice in the party and the
political process. It has more than
a 1,000 members nationwide and
continues to grow fast.
The latest chapter was launched
in Wellington by the President of
National Party, Peter Goodfellow,
along with Indian National MPs
Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi and Dr
Parmjeet Parmar. The event
was attended by Speaker of the
House Rt. Hon David Carter, Hon
Nathan Guy, Minister for Primary
Industries and Hon Craig Foss,

Associate Minister of Immigration

along with several other MPs
Hon Chester Borrows, Tim
Macindoe, Ian McKelvie, Brett
Hudson, Christopher Bishop, Paul
Foster-Bell, Alastair Scott, Jono
Naylor and Joanne Hayes.
The launch was organised by Mr
Aashish Suri who put a lot of effort
along with MP Kanwaljit Singh
Bakshi into making it a success.
The concept of Global IndiaNZ
was first originated in Auckland
by MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi
in 2008 and following the first
launch in Auckland, Global
IndiaNZ started in places such
as Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua
and Christchurch.
MP Bakshi visited Palmerston
North to meet the Indian
community as the recent formal
launch in Lower North Island
was to generate more awareness
among Indians about Global
IndiaNZ.

BC5523_IW_1

he
Children
Wing
of
Bhartiya
Samaj Charitable Trust
observed International
Yoga
Dayon June 19 at the community
hall with the intention of
inculcating the importance of
healthy living among children.
With the importance of yoga

Launch of Global
IndiaNZ Lower
North Island

r
o
f
care

r
u
yo
y
munit

com

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NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Campaign raises awareness on

drug abuse

Kick-off time!

The team from Rwanda | Photo credit: Rosemine Mutamuliza

IWK BUREAU
Spreading awareness: volunteers with placards and pamphlets at Aotea Square

IWK Bureau

n June 26, International Day

against Drug Abuse and Illicit
Trafficking was observed at Aotea
Square, Auckland. Despite bad weather
conditions, the event saw a huge turnout of
volunteers who made the event successful.
Aam Aadmi Party New Zealand, which
was forefront in launching the AntiDrug campaign worldwide, launched the
#KickNasha campaign at the event.
An official video, keeping in mind the
drug epidemic in Punjab, was screened.
Nearly 70% of youth in Punjab are victims
of drug abuse or are a part of the illicit drug
trafficking business.
Through placards and pamphlets,
volunteers
created awareness about

the dangers associated with drugs. The

highlight of the event was the street play
that was highly appreciated by the audience.
Directed by Aam Aadmi Party convenor
Mr Rajeev Bajwa, the play showcased the
dangers associated with drugs.
Mr Bajwa mentioned that all New
Zealand volunteers were working hard
under the able leadership of Dr Kumar
Vishwas (Overseas Convenor) to put an end
to drug menace of the current government
in Punjab.
Mr Bajwa and Sr Kharag Singh thanked
all the volunteers for their support in
making #KickNasha campaign a huge
success. The hashtag KickNasha was
trending number one in India on Twitter on
Monday morning.

Paresh Patel

s Rio Olympic games begin in

September, West Auckland will
have its local version of an event
around the time to bring multiple ethnicities
together to celebrate the first-ever West
Auckland Ethkick Football Tournament.
To be held on September 17 in Starling
Park, Ranui, the tournament will see mens
and womens team, all seven a side and
aged 16 years and above. The first 32 teams
to register will be accepted; one from each
ethnicity or country. The additional teams
will be placed on a waiting list.
Registrations have begun and teams
are sought from ethnic communities,
be it refugees, recent migrants, or long
established. Members of West Aucklands
Rwandan, Congolese, Kurdish, Nepalese,
Samoan, Tuvalu, Zo, Chin and Fijian
communities have already expressed
interest and more teams are expected to

come forward. The tournaments started in

Palmerston North in 2009 but this is the
first such tournament to be held in West
Auckland. Football is a language that many
cultures speak, from Scottish to Sri Lankan
and Samoan, Norwegian to Niuean, and
Croatian to Chilean and Kiribati.
The aim of the tournament is to have
a marvellous fiesta while encouraging
acceptance and celebrati on of the cultural
diversity of West Auckland: fostering
friendship through football. Ethkick West
is organised by Community Waitakere in
partnership with Auckland Council, the
Northern Football Federation and NZ
Police, supported by Local Boards, the
Waitakere Ethnic Board, Sports Waitakere,
the Human Rights Commission, and The
Trusts Community Foundation.
More details can be found on
www.communitywaitakere.org.
To
register your team, contact mandy@
communitywaitakere.org.nz

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NEW ZEALAND

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Chch education sector will cross $1b by

2025, courtesy Indian students
Gaurav Sharma

Sector profile

ccording
to
the
Canterbury
International Education
Destination
2025
Strategy
released by the Canterbury
Development Corporation, the
international education sector
in Canterbury is projected to
enrol 25,580 students by 2025,
generating more than $937
million in EVA (Economic Value
Added). Of these, the biggest
chunk is coming from India.
EVA is an estimate of the
contribution of international
education towards national Gross
Domestic Product, reflecting
expenditure by international
students on tuition fees and
living costs.
Even
now,
international
education is one of Canterburys
most
valuable
exports,
contributing $253 million of
total economic value to the
region in 2014 and making it
the regions fifth largest export
earner. In fact, and importantly
for Canterburys economy, the
number of international students
coming to the region has risen
by $20 compared to last year,
with majority coming from India.
While these students are adding
to the pipeline of skilled workers
in the region, they often attract
relatives from overseas bringing
CT
RA
NT
CO EK
ER H WE
D
UN 11T

65

hristchurchs
tertiary
education sector consists of
three universitiesUniversity
of
Canterbury,
Lincoln
University and the University
of Otago, Christchurchone
Ara Institute of Canterbury
as well as several Private
Training
Establishments
(PTEs),
Industry
Training
Organisations
(ITOs),
and
community
training
programmes. While University
of Canterbury is known for
engineering
and
sciences,
and Lincoln for land-based
research, the University of

Otago, Christchurch, specialises

in health research and teaching.
The three largest institutions
University
of
Canterbury,
Lincoln
and
Arabring
approximately $50 million in
international student revenue.
The University of Canterburys
figures for 2013 show that
approximately 1,000 (seven
per cent) of its students were
from overseas. In comparison,
approximately 1,200 (35%)
of
Lincolns
students
are international.
Courtesy: Canterbury
Development Corporation

Christchurch Educated

C
This illustration was published in The Canterbury Report Winter 2016 by
the Canterbury Development Corporation

in precious tourism dollars for

the region. Taking New Zealand as
a whole, the student visas granted
to Indians have gone from 611 in
2004 to 10,000 in 2015.
In fact, according to the
Migration Trends and Outlook
Report 201415, which was
published by the Ministry
of Business, Innovation and

Employment, a total of 84,856

international
students
were
approved to study in New Zealand,
an increase of 16% from 201314,
the second year-on-year increase.
China has remained the largest
source country of international
students (27%) followed by India
(23%) and South Korea (six
per cent). The numbers from

hristchurch Educated is a collaboration of education providers

based in Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region. Members span all parts of the education sector from primary schools
to universities and include both public institutions and privately
owned and operated businesses.
More details can be found on www.christchurcheducated.co.nz
The collaboration also runs a website askchched.co.nz providing
one-stop-information-shop for potential and newly-arrived
international students.

India continue to rise sharply.

had transitioned to residence

Interestingly, the report goes on to

five years after their first student

add, International students have

visa. In 201415, 43% of skilled

become an important source of

principal migrants were former

skilled migrants for New Zealand.

international students.

By June 30, 2015, 17% of students

Indian taxi drivers to protest

against Uber in Christchurch
GAURAV SHARMA

he citys taxi drivers,

majority of whom are
migrants from India, are
planning a protest outside the
office of MP for Christchurch
Central, Nicky Wagner, at
Salisbury Street, on July 4. A
group of more than 200 taxi
drivers, belonging to all major
taxi companies in the city,
including Blue Star and Gold
Band, are planning to organise a
two-hour protest on July 4, against
what they call governments
inadequate action on dealing
with Uber drivers.
Jaspinder Pal Singh, who
has been driving a taxi in
Christchurch since 2009, and is
the main organiser of the protest
informed, We will block one
lane of the Salisbury Street from
11 a.m. on that day. What Uber
drivers have been doing in our
city is completely illegal. Their
tariff is not fixed, they drive
without proper endorsements on

their driving licenses, they dont

maintain any log-books, have
less rigorous background checks,
and they dont have any camera
installed in their cars. Since the
government is not listening, our
only resort is to protest outside
the ministers office. While we
welcome competition, it has to
be within the confines of the law.
There has to be a level playing
field for all concerned parties.
Noting that majority of taxi
drivers in Christchurch are
migrants, Singh added, Almost
70 to 80% are migrants from
the sub-continent and Uber is
making survival difficult for
many of them. The New Zealand
Transport Authority, meanwhile,
has noted that what Uber is doing
in Christchurch, and rest of the
country is illegal, and that it
has made this clear to Uber, to
the public and to potential Uber
drivers in Christchurch.
The Transport Agency has been
contacted by many prospective

Uber drivers seeking information

on what is required of them to
legally carry passengers. Weve
informed these drivers what
is required of them to operate
legally, and weve explained the
possible consequences of driving
without an appropriate licence
or providing an unlicensed
service, which can result in
significant fines. We encourage
anyone considering becoming
a passenger transport provider
to contact the Transport Agency
for help on 0800 822 422, said
the authority.
Its
important
to
note
that until late April, Ubers
operational model required their
driver-partners in New Zealand
to comply with our passenger
service regulations. The majority
of the actions were undertaken
since the company changed
its model in late April, and
enforcement activity will rampup as more evidence is gathered
and investigated, added NZTA.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

What motivates people to join NZ Police?

NZ Police is recruiting Asian Police Officers, and I am honoured to have the opportunity to interview Constable Chris Byun from the North
Shore Police Station
Constable Chris Byun
Jessica Phuang

Asian liaison co-ordinator

Jessica:
Why
you
wish
to
NZ Police?

Jessica: What
challenges for

Chris: Sometimes Police have

to inform family members and
friends of a sudden or unexpected
death and work together to find
out what may have happened.
For me, I feel privileged to be
able to help them by providing
the information they need and to
console them.

did
join

Chris: When I was in my second

year at Auckland University, I
volunteered to join a programme
called Teach and Learn in Korea.
It was a programme that was
designed and organised by the
Korean government to have
students in rural areas educated
in English by native English
speakers for free. Many students
in rural areas are poor and do not
have enough money for education
to catch up with the students in
urban areas.
While I was in Korea in an
area called Mun Baek in Chung
Cheong Buk Do Province for a
year and a half, I realised how
valuable and important it was to
help others in need. Coming back
to New Zealand, I heard about
opportunities to join the New
Zealand Police. I realised that it
could be the job where I got to
help people on a daily basis. As
a Christian, it is also important
to me to be able to help others
in need.
were the
you when

Jessica: Is there an incident

you attended to that was
specifically significant to you
and why?

you were going through the

recruitment process?
Chris: I did not like exercising.
I would rather play computer
games and hang out with
friends in town. Therefore I
was not fit at all. So training
for the Physical Competency
Test and swimming test was
difficult. Also, I was not good at
communicating with people that I
didnt know.
Jessica:
How
did
you
overcome
the challenges?
Chris: At the time, I was an
Auckland University student.
So the only time for me to
train was in the morning. On
Mondays and Wednesdays, I

ran with a marathon group at

AUT Millennium Gym. After the
running, I went to the gym and
did a bit of weight training.
On
Tuesdays
and
Thursdays, I did more intense
weight
training
followed
by swimming.
To improve my communication
skills, I joined the Asian Safety
Patrol Group where I got to
work with Police Officers from
Auckland City District Police,
patrolling around Auckland CBD
area. Whenever I was patrolling
with them I would talk to
members of the public and the
constables I was working with.
By doing so, I learnt how police
interact with the public and I
also gained more confidence in
my communications.

Jessica: Do you recommend

NZ Police as a worthwhile
career?
Chris: Yes. I would recommend
people join NZ Police. If you are
a person who likes a variety of
duties and you wish to work for
an organisation that will provide
career opportunities, then you
should make an effort to attend
the recruitment seminar.
Jessica:
What
attributes
should one have in order to
reach their goal?
Chris: They should have good
stress
management
skills,
endurance, good listening skills,
maturity and be able to perform
under pressure. NZ Police often
attend to incidents that can
quickly get out of control. We
should be able to deal with these
situations. We need to be able to

listen to victims and witnesses and

engage effectively.
The incidents we attend can
be stressful, some people may be
grieving, some may be angry at
us, therefore, we need to be able
to manage our stress well to do
our job well.
Endurance is also important.
The recruitment process is long
and there are many assessments
to pass. Many face difficulties
and give up. In order to become a
Police officer, you need to be able
to endure all the difficulties and
find ways to overcome them.
I would like to thank Constable
Byun for sharing. Im sure his
story will encourage Asian people
who are considering joining
NZ Police.
If you wish to learn more about
joining NZ Police, join Auckland
Recruitment Seminar on July 9 at
the Fickling Center 546 Mt Albert
Rd, Three Kings from 10 a.m. to
noon. Entrance is free and there
is lots of parking. Parents are
welcome too.
For those who wish to find
out more, search events on
NEWCOPS.CO.NZ or call Jessica
on 021 1920935. She is also
available on e-mail at Jessica.
phuang@police.govt.nz

Wishing you a shower of

Blessings

in the holy month of Ramadan

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10

NEW ZEALAND

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

$3.56m programme to support our communities

n
June
25,
Community
and
Voluntary
Sector
Minister
Jo
Goodhew
announced the new Community-Led
Development
Programme
(CLDP),
supporting community-led initiatives into
the future.
This new programme marks a step change
for the long-term support of community
projects, and will have significant positive
impacts for successful applicants, says
Mrs Goodhew. The programme will
allow selected communities to identify
community aspirations, then partner with
the Department of Internal Affairs, other

government agencies, local government,

private funders, businesses and local iwi to
achieve their goals.
As the pilot Community Led Development
Programme draws to a close on 30 June, it
is timely to announce the CLDP, which will
build on the pilots success and facilitate
a larger number of communities taking a
similar approach, Mrs Goodhew says.
Participation in CLDP will consider the
strengths and readiness of communities
to adopt a CommunityLed Development
approach. CLDP work together in a location
to create and achieve locally-owned visions
and goals.

Otahuhu community gets

new social housing

he Otahuhu community has

received a much-needed housing
boost with the completion of 18
new social housing properties, Social
Housing Minister Paula Bennett says.
Built on the site where just five 1950s
state houses once stood, all of the 18 new
Housing New Zealand (HNZ) properties
will soon be home to some of Aucklands
most needy families and individuals.
The houses on the 4,352 sq m
Special Housing Area site include eight
two-bedroom homes, two three-bedroom
homes, six four-bedroom homes and two
five-bedroom homes.
Mrs Bennett, who visited the site to
see the finishing touches being added
to the homes before they are tenanted,
said, These homes are a great example
of how a community can benefit from the
redevelopment of old state house that are
no longer fit for purpose. Local stakeholders
including local board members have also
seen the new houses and were impressed
with the new homes in their community.
Given the high demand for housing in
Auckland, it is no longer realistic for us
to have three-bedroom houses on large

Social Housing Minister Paula Bennett

(centre) with Dean Delaney (left) and Richard
Vokes (right) of Woodview Construction

sections. Developments like this allow us

to use our land more efficiently and build
more housing of the right size and type to
meet demand.
HNZ has land in about 50 Special
Housing Areas across Auckland. The areas
will enable HNZ to create up to around
3,000 new houses on sites where there are
currently only about 690 homes.

Trade Minister seeks

Brexit meetings

rade Minister Todd McClay

says he is seeking meetings with
trade ministers from the United
Kingdom (UK) and the European Union
(EU) to discuss the UKs decision to leave
the EU.
I expect to meet with many of my
European counterparts at the G20 meeting
in Shanghai, July 910, and I have already
requested meetings with key ministers and
the EU Trade Commissioner to discuss
New Zealands best way forward, in light
of the referendum result, says Mr McClay.
Mr McClay says the process of discussions
between the UK and EU Member States
is likely to take up to two years, once
negotiations begin with commentators
suggesting that a final Brexit could be five
or six years away.
I have already begun talks with
exporters and will continue to engage with
the sectors most affected including our
meat, dairy, and horticulture industries. It

is important that they are fully informed,

and fully engaged in the process as it
develops. Even before Fridays referendum,
we had sought assurances from UK and
EU officials that the rules around New
Zealand access would not change until
they have negotiated new ones with us.
We have received those assurances,
says Mr McClay.
And we will continue to talk to both
sides, with the aim of ensuring that the
quality and the value of our access to both
the EU and UK markets is retained.
A lot of important work has been put
in by both sides over the past 12 months.
New Zealand has a significant number of
supporters in the EU and we retain a strong
relationship with the UK.
We will be taking a calm and considered
approach to this discussion, while using
the two-year negotiating period to New
Zealand exporters best advantage, says
Mr McClay.

The key elements will be:

Paid community development workers

A partnership approach and a joint

commitment to adhere to Community

Led Development principles
Promotion of community leadership
Intensive advisory support from
Internal Affairs
Holistic and flexible funding
Wide community engagement
and support
Sustainable and measurable action plans
to support progress of the collective
community vision

This new partnering approach will

provide support for up to five years through
the investment of intensive advisory
support provided by the Department of
Internal Affairs and through the investment
of Crown funds.
The CLDP budget starts at $1 million in
201617 (with investments commencing in
early 2017), rising to $3.56 million in 2019
20. Over the same period the Community
Development Scheme (CDS) will be
gradually phased out. All funding from the
CLDP pilot and the CDS will be combined
for the CLDP.

Gambling review discussion

document released

public discussion document about

the sustainability of community
funding from pub and club gaming
machines is now available, Internal Affairs
Minister Peter Dunne said on June 27.
Earlier this year, I announced a review
of class four gambling and the release of
a public discussion document gives the
public a chance to have their say.
The release of the discussion document
is the next step in the governments review
of the class four gambling sector, which
operates pokie machines in non-casino
venues, says Mr Dunne.
The discussion document sets out the key
characteristics of the sector, and explores
some of the challenges faced by those
involved in class four gambling.
It includes specific questions for the
public about the challenges faced by the
sector, and how to address those challenges.
The public consultation period will run
for seven weeks.
The aim of the review is to ensure
funding to communities from the class four
sector remains sustainable, without any
growth in gambling, and minimising harm
from gambling.

Gambling review discussion document is

the next step in the governments review of
the class four gambling sector

The class four sector is a valuable

source of community funding, and we will
be looking at proposals to future-proof
that funding. This discussion document
is an opportunity for the community to
let the government know what they think
are the challenges faced by the sector, and
how to ensure that we get the maximum
benefit from class four gambling, without
growing gambling and minimising harm,
said Mr Dunne.
The deadline for submissions is
August 12.

New data for identifying flood risk

cientists have released new data

that will help planners identify
the risks posed by floods and sea
level rise, says Land Information Minister
Louise Upston.
Land Information New Zealand (LINZ)
has completed a five-year project to
improve New Zealands Vertical Datuma
reference for measuring the height of the
land and its features.
LINZ has flown the length and breadth
of New Zealand gathering airborne gravity
data to update the vertical datum. As a
result of its work, planners, surveyors and
engineers now have a consistent reference
for measuring heights that is accurate to 3
cm, says Ms Upston.
This helps planners model the height of
our landscape and buildings so they can see
how water will move during storm surges
and floodsNew Zealands most common
natural hazard. It provides a consistent
measure for monitoring sea level rise.
Providing a consistent reference surface
will also make it easier for local authorities
to share information about the height
of land, buildings and infrastructure
across boundaries. After all, floods dont

recognise council boundaries. Another use

is for engineers. The ability to accurately
measure the height of our landscape
means they can ensure sewage and water
infrastructure flows downhill.
LINZ also has work underway to help
make LiDAR data more consistent.
LiDAR is three-dimensional data on our
land and its features, which is collected by
local and central government.
Making LiDAR data more consistent will
make it more useful for planning against
the impact of floods and sea level rise.
LINZ is making this data more
accessible, says Ms Upston. As a result,
LiDAR for the Auckland region is now
freely available online to researchers,
industry and others through the LINZ Data
Service at no charge.
The work that LINZ is leading gives
New Zealand the information it needs to
improve resilience to natural disasters.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Auckland building
activity at all-time high

n June 21, Building

and Housing Minister
Dr
Nick
Smith
and Auckland Mayor Len
Brown released the latest
Auckland
Housing
Accord
monitoring report.
The accord set a target of 39,000
new sections created and dwelling
consents issued over three years.
By March 31, 2016, 30,389 had
been achieved as compared to
a target of 30,500 at that date
99.6% of target. Keeping our foot
to the consenting gas pedal will
help keep the momentum going
The good news is that the report
shows the number of consented
homes in multi-unit buildings
is increasing, with the 4,174
such consents issued during the
period accounting for more than
43% of all residential building
consents issued.
As on March 31, there were 118
Special Housing Areas (SHAs)
declared, with the capacity
to deliver more than 58,000
dwellings. There are now 154

Building activity in Auckland has

reached an all-time high of $6
billion per year

SHAs in Auckland, with the

potential to deliver up to 62,200
homes. Building is booming and
more needs to be done.
The level of building activity
for the year to March 2016
is $6.1 billion, the highest in
Auckland ever. The last boom
was in 2005, which peaked at
$3.8 billion or $4.8 billion in
todays terms. These impressive
figures
reflecting
the
real
progress being made and showing
Auckland Council has a plan and

it is working. Real progress has

been made to fast track consenting
to enable housing development in
Auckland. Regulatory roadblocks
have been removed, new tools
have been provided and the
provision
of
infrastructure
development to enable major
projects.
The
Development
Programme Office also provides a
one-stop-shop
to
facilitate
infrastructure
solutions
for
multiple
developers
and land owners.
Auckland Council and the
government will continue to
work together to consider
options across the board to ease
Aucklands housing issues.
The next steps in the
governments programme include
supporting the council in the
completion of the new Auckland
Unitary Plan, consulting on a new
Urban Development National
Policy Statement, reform of the
Resource Management Act and
developing new legislation on
urban development authorities.

11

Auckland Council
warns of phone scam

uckland
Council
is
warning residents to be
vigilant after a woman

fell victim to a scam from a person

claiming to be from Auckland
District Council.
The woman says she received
a phone call from someone with
an Australian phone number who
said they were from the Auckland
District Council. She was then
asked for her bank account
details so that she could pay an
infringement notice.
Auckland Council Investigation
Advisor Maureen Glassey says

victims bank statement and has

been used to take around $150.
Ms

Glassey

says

Auckland

Council, or any of its councilcontrolled

organisations

such

as Auckland Transport, would

never ring ratepayers to ask for
bank account details or request
a direct debit to be set up to pay
for infringements.
We strongly advise that no
one gives out their bank account
details over the phone to anyone,
regardless of where they say they
are from.
If anyone receives a call of

unfortunately the woman gave the

this nature, we would urge them

caller her bank account details,

to record the number it comes

which were then used to set up a

from, if thats possible, and pass

direct debit. The name Auckland

the details onto the police, says

District Council appears on the

Ms Glassey.

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issuu.com/indianweekender

12

NEW ZEALAND

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

National invests $600m to make roads safer

John Key

Prime Minister

very year on our roads, hundreds

of New Zealanders are killed and
thousands are seriously injured.
The National-led government is working
hard to improve safety across the entire
road system and bring the road toll down.
Last
week,
we
reinforced
that
commitment, announcing we will be
investing $600 million to make safety
improvements to 90 high-risk black spots

on rural main roads around the country.

These safety upgrades will include nearly
all high risk roads where there have been
five or more fatalities in the last five years.
It will make improvements to around 400
kilometres of rural state highways from
Invercargill to north of Whangarei.
The safety upgrades will include a
combination of side barriers, rumble
strips, wide centre line treatments and
median barriers. In some areas, corners
will be softened to improve visibility and
road marking and signage highlighting the
road environment will be upgraded.
This
programme
of
roading
improvements is expected to result in 900
fewer deaths and serious injuries on our
roads over the next 10 years. Currently,
around eight out of 10 fatal and serious

crashes on state highways occur on rural

roads. Of those crashes, 85 to 90% are head
on or where the driver runs off the road.
These improvements will make roads more
forgiving of human error, helping to reduce
the occurrence of these crashes in the first
place and limiting their severity when they
do happen.
This is a significant step up in road
safety investment by the government and
reinforces our commitment to reducing
death and serious injury crashes on New
Zealand roads. This latest announcement
adds to the broad programme of work we
already have underway to improve road
safety including funding the roll out of
powerful advertising campaigns, lowering
blood alcohol levels, and installing
hundreds of kilometres of rumble strips

and median barriers. But at the end of

day, the government can only do so much.
Thats why it is also vital for all road users
to take responsibility for their own safety
and make smart choicesbuckle up, slow
down, and dont drive impaired or fatigued.
Last week was National Volunteer
Week, where we celebrated the 1.2 million
New Zealanders who have stepped up to
make a difference in their communities
by volunteering their time to one or
more charities.
I just want to take a moment to thank
all those who lend a helping hand to help
others, the work you do is invaluable,
and your actions make New Zealand a
better country.
Thank you again and keep up the
good work.

An open, diversified economy better

equipped to deal with global events
Kanwaljit Bakshi

National List MP

ationals focus on making New

Zealand an open, diversified,
trading nation means we are
better equipped to deal with global risks
beyond our control.
That includes any short-term economic
volatility, which may arise from the UKs
decision to exit the European Union.
Our books are in black. Treasury is
forecasting rising surpluses and falling
Crown debt. Expected growth is around
three per cent on average over the next few
years and wages are continuing to rise. It
puts us in good stead to deal with any global

market uncertainty. Decades ago Britain

was our number one trading partner and
while that relationship remains important,
we now have a much more diverse range
of trading partners. Australia and China
take more of our exports than the EU, and
countries in the Asia-Pacific region make
up our most valuable trading partners.
The government realises, just as we
wont get rich selling things to each other,
we wont benefit from trading with only

one nation. Over the last seven years, our

trading relationships around the world
have grown in number and diversity.
Since 2008, we have entered into free
trade agreements with Malaysia, Hong
Kong, Korea, and the ASEAN nations,
and an economic co-operation agreement
with Chinese Taipei as well as signing
the Trans-Pacific Partnership with 11
other Asia Pacific countries. We have also
started negotiations with India. We are a
more diversified export economy than we
were in the past. Total exports increased
by almost $2 billion last year on the back
of solid performances from tourism, the
beef sector, ICT, wine and much of the
manufacturing sector.
In short, our economy now has a strong,
broad foundation for future growth and
is far more flexible than ever before.
This years Budget builds on our strong

Seventy-one years of the UN

David Shearer
Labour MP

unday, June 26, marked 71 years

since New Zealands then-Prime
Minister Peter Fraser signed the
founding charter of the United Nations.
Fraser led the New Zealand mission to
the founding meeting in San Francisco
himself because he felt so strongly about
the need for an organisation that promoted
peace in the world.
He was forward thinking: even back then
he argued vigorously against the veto for
the five big member states. How prescient
his concerns have turned out to be. In
the decades since, the veto has been used

to serve the interests of a few, powerful

countries often at the expense of peace for
many others.
Ever since then, New Zealand
governments, irrespective of persuasion,
have carried forward Peter Frasers vision
of a more inclusive and active Security
Council. The UN often deserves criticism
but some of it is unfair. Ultimately, it is a
creature of the nation states. If it fails, its a

failure of states as much as a failure of the

UN itself.
And too often we focus on areas of the
world where there is critical conflict,
condemning the UNs inaction, when its
the member states themselves that are
ignoring the UNs resolutions.
Its also worth remembering all the crises
that didnt occur because of the UN, where,
without the UN, tens of thousands may
have perished.
There are currently more than 100,000
UN troops, for example, keeping the peace
across the world. Thats why its so often
said that for all its faults, if we didnt have
the UN wed have to invent it.
Nevertheless, reform and modernisation
are necessary to make the UN fit for
purpose in the world we now live in. Its my
hope that this reform will be approached

economic performance delivering a $761

million Innovative New Zealand package
to encourage entrepreneurship, skills and
economic growth.
The package includes funding for
research,
science
and
innovation,
as well as support for regional
economic development.
Regardless of how future events unfold
in Europe, New Zealand will continue
its discussions with the EU on a possible
FTA and will take calm and considered
approach future discussions with a
post-Brexit UK, to ensure the quality and
the value of our access to both the EU and
UK markets is retained.
Despite uncertain times Nationals
sound fiscal management has led to a
resilient, growing economy which is
equipped to meet the challengers and grab
the opportunities that lie ahead.

in the same spirit of idealism that Fraser

and others took to the table 71 years ago. It
wont be easy because the UN is a complex
beast: its a place where countries meet
such as the 15 that sit around the Security
Council and the 192 that join the General
Assembly to decide on global matters of
peace and development.
Simultaneously, its a myriad of other
organisations too, including the World
Health Organisation, the World Food
Programme, the Refugee Organisation that
is trying to cope with a caseload of more
than 60 millionthe most since World War
II. So we acknowledge Frasers foresight in
seeing all the good things the UN could be,
and we hope that others of his calibre can
make the changes to the UN that will bring
greater effectiveness in the challenging
times of the 21st century.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

July 1 initiatives delivering for families

Parmjeet Parmar

National List MP

ationals
responsible
management of the
economy
and
the
governments books is giving
New Zealand households and
businesses confidence and helping
build a growing, vibrant economy
with more jobs and higher wages.
Our latest measures to distribute
dividends from our growing

economy to New Zealand families

came into effect on July 1. Were
putting yet more money in your
pocket with the average ACC levy
for a private motor vehicle falling
to around $130 per vehicle. This is
down from $330 two years ago.
Extra funding for Pharmac in
Budget 2016, makes available
new treatments for advanced
melanoma, hepatitis C, and kidney
disorders in children.
Our Raising Healthy Kids target
aims to get 95% of children, who
are identified as obese in our free
B4 School health checks, referred
to a health professional for support
to improve their familys lifestyle

through better nutrition and more

physical activity, by 2017.
Income limits for KiwiSavers
are being removed so second
chance home buyers can access
their KiwiSaver funds to buy a
home regardless of how high their
income is.
All rental homes must have
smoke alarms. This will affect
120,000 homes and is expected
to save three lives a year, or 30
during the next decade, as well
as reducing fire-related injuries
and tens of millions of dollars in
property damage.
New insulation requirements
for social housing also kick in

from July 1 and on all other rentals

from July 1, 2019. This measure
is expected to lead to 180,000
properties being insulated by 2019
and to save 129 lives a year.
Our July 1 initiatives build
on a number of measures to
help families that began in on
April 1just three months ago.
They include paid parental
leave increasing to 18 weeks and
broadening the eligibility to better
reflect modern workplace and
family arrangements.
We put more money in New
Zealanders back pockets with
$232 million of ACC cuts to work
levies, paid by employers and self-

employed people, and the earners

levy that everyone in the paid
workforce pays.
New Zealand superannuation
increased again this April,
meaning it has gone up 34% since
April 2008more than double the
inflation rate over that period.
And weve provided the first real
benefit increase for families with
children in more than 40 years.
We need to build on the
progress weve made, to ensure
the economy continues to grow
solidlyyear on yearso we
can continue to help families
get ahead.

US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership

Agreement
(TPPA).
Public
opinion polling in New Zealand
has shown a majority of the
public oppose the TPPA and there
have been concerns expressed
by legal experts, economists and
academics. The TPPA has yet to
be ratified by the NZ Parliament
and is in trouble in the US
where it is opposed by both
Presidential candidates.
There was also controversy
when the Regional Comprehensive
Economic Partnership (RCEP)
met in Auckland for negotiations,
their 13th round since starting
in November 2012. The RCEP
grouping is led by China and
consists of India, Japan, South
Korea, Australia and New Zealand

and the 10 Southeast Asian

countries in ASEAN. Most of the
debate was about the speed of
tariff reductionsIndia is calling
for a gradual approach to protect
its domestic businesses and
agricultural producersbut there
was also discussion about investor
rights in services, investment,
patents and copyright.
The key issue in both the TPPA
and RCEP is not whether or not
New Zealand and other countries
should trade with each other
trade is important to business
and the economybut whether
agreements such as the TPPA
should include far-reaching rights
for foreign investors, including
the right to sue governments
over laws that adversely impact
their profitability.

The growing number of cases

taken by large multinationals
against
governments
gives
cause for concern. This week,
TransCanada filed a claim
against President Obama for not
approving the KeystoneXL oil
pipeline and Imperial Tobacco
threatened a claim against New
Zealand if the government
proceeds with plain packaging
of cigarettes. These issues are
important to the environment,
climate change, public health and
national sovereignty.
The small economic benefits
from
tariff
reductions
in
agreements such as RCEP are
the Trojan horse. The rights for
foreign investors are the dangers
hidden inside. There needs to be
more public information on these

agreements. Unlike negotiations

in the World Trade Organisation,
the drafts are confidential and
governments are not accountable
for their proposals.
India has faced 17 challenges
from multinationals and has
proposed safeguards on the
rights of foreign investors in the
RCEP, as has the EU has in other
negotiations. India and other
governments should be supported
to go further, and exclude
extreme measures to favour
foreign investors.
We need to achieve a balance
that supports small and medium
companies, allows flexibility to
meet challenges such as climate
change, and protects the rights
of government to act in the
public interest.

Trade as a Trojan horse

Barry Coates
Green Party

ndias position on trade

and investment was the
focus of a recent meeting in
Auckland, as Indian negotiators
argued for a gradual approach to
opening up their economy. They
came under pressure from other
countries to drop their tariffs
and agree favourable rules for
foreign investors. However, India
is right to be cautious about these
complex treaties.
These issues are controversial,
particularly with regards to the

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1 July 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

Transport to reduce use of

oil, gas

ijis transport sector is

focused on sustainable
modes in both land and
maritime transport to reduce
the dependence on imported
fossil fuels.
This was highlighted by
the Permanent Secretary for
Infrastructure and Transport
Paul Bayly while opening the 2016
National Transport Consultative
Forum sub-sector consultation
at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay
Hotel convention centre on
Monday, June 27. Key members of
the land and maritime sectors were
amongst the participants at the
forum consultation.
The bi-annual consultation gave
the opportunity for the various
transport sectors and participants
to
revisit
their
national
performance in availing better
transportation chances for all
Fijians. Mr Bayly said they would
focus on providing strategies
and outcomes that would not

Permanent Secretary for

Infrastructure and Transport
Paul Bayley

only benefit the transport

industry but also the people.
Fijis transport sector is heavily
reliant on fossil fuel and is now
focused on sustainable transport
in both the land and maritime
sectors, he said.
Mr Bayly said the national
guiding policies such as the
Green Growth and the Draft
Fiji Development Plan sets
the national platform not only
for the transport ministry but
all stakeholders to encourage
the use of alternative fuels
and
better
transportation
options. To achieve our goals

and create a bright future we

must work closely with our
private sector and the people,
Mr Bayly said.
Always act in their interests
and work in an industrious,
honest and creative way.
The
consultation
forum
was divided into two sections
focussing on both the land and
maritime sectors.
Some of the key areas in the
transport sector that will be
continuously focussed on are:
to improve land and maritime
transport infrastructures and
their connectivity with the
intent of making the transport
systems accessible to all Fijians;
continue to explore alternative
reliable and affordable transport
fuels
including
renewable
energy sources in reducing
Fijis dependence on imported
fossil fuels; strengthening the
legislative framework for both the
maritime and land transport.

Budget opens pathways for

businesses: Hazelman

he Fiji Commerce and

Employers Federation,
chief executive officer,
Nesbitt Hazelman said the
Budget had opened new pathways
for businesses and entrepreneurs.
With
the
governments
new
initiative
on
tax
rebates on businesses, Mr
Hazelman said overall he
was happy with the Budget.
All round very good budget
given the business tax rebates,
given employment of first time
employers, it is focussed on
business
and
employment,

Mr Hazelman said. He said

the tax rebates had relaxed
trading as for too long the
businesses had been tightened
up by the rules and regulations.
Mr Hazelman added the removal
of credit card levies would now
help businesses and that it was
good that there was stability in
the policy given not much changes
occurred in the taxes for citizens
He said currently 60% of
small and medium enterprises
were made up of informal and
semi formal spaces with 45% of
formal space

NFP wary of Rabuka

I will not back down: Rabuka

Arieta Vakasukawaqa

ewly
appointed
SODELPA Party Leader,
Sitiveni Rabuka has
made a stand that he will not back
down even if the majority of party
members decide to break away.
In an interview at his residence
in Namadi Heights recently, the
former prime minister and coup
leader said he was aware that
few disgruntled party members
had left the party because of the
change in leadership.
I will only leave the party if the
board sacks me, he said.
I wont be discouraged and
this is something Ive anticipated
since 2014; I still hold it today,
Mr Rabuka said.
He said being appointed
as SODELPA leader was an
uphill
battle
without
the
support of people who rejected
his
nomination
as
party
leader in 2014.
I am sad that this has
happened just because I have
taken up leadership; I am just one
member of the party and not the
party. I have been made leader of
the party and they should have
worked with their own delegates

From left: National Federation Party general secretary Bala Dass, party
leader Biman Prasad, and party president Roko Tupou Draunidalo at the
NFPs working committee meeting in Nadi | Photo: Arishma Devi

T
who came to vote, Mr Rabuka
said. He called on supporters of
SODELPA to continue supporting
the party with or without his
leadership. If they reject me,
I will ask my supporters to
continue supporting the party
and I will continue supporting the
party and I hope that the party
continues to be a political force in
Fiji, Mr Rabuka said.
Now we have seen the
resignation of prominent party
members; something I didnt
want to happen to the party.
The party has done well and
they have managed to win seats

in Parliament and if so many

are withdrawing because of me
coming in then it will end up with
negative results and one person
coming and few hundred leaving
is a very bad arithmetic fact, Mr
Rabuka said.
He said what had resulted in the
change in SODELPA leadership
was expected as they also did it to
him in 2014.
For this one I didnt volunteer
or apply; I was nominated by
Cakaudrove West and I allowed
the process to continue until the
selection took place, he said.

he National Federation
Party is unlikely to
engage with SODELPA
after the appointment of Sitiveni
Rabuka as party leader.
On Sunday, June 26 at NFPs
working committee in Nadi, its
president and suspended MP,
Roko Tupou Draunidalo, did
not mince her words about Mr
Rabukas appointment.
I know that I have said that
how a party governs itself is its
own business, but how our party
reacts to them is our business,
Ms Draunidalo said.
We cannot be seen in any way
to endorse another party that has,
as a leader, one that has brought
ruin to this country for the past
30 years.
Mr Rabuka led the 1987
military coups.
Ms Draunidalo said, People
in Fiji are sick of coup and
coup makers because they have
brought us 30 years of disaster.
If our party doesnt have the

It was forecasted that the Fijian

economy would go through three
years of continuous positive
growth, Mr Koya said.
Mr Koya said the Fijian
government had recognised the
significance of connecting Fijian
businesses with opportunities
in
global
growth
markets

through supporting inbound

missions from the various
Chinese provinces.
Therefore, we look forward to
strengthening our relationship
with
China
connecting
business and encouraging trade
between the two countries,
especially Guandong, he said.

Mr Koya also encouraged

Fijians
to
embrace
these
companies, expertise, products,
information
and
data
to
expand their business. He said
the national Budget showed
the
Fijian
governments
determination on getting the
economic fundamentals right

Newly-appointed SODELPA leader Sitiveni Rabuka (right) with his wife

Sulueti Rabuka at their home in Suva | Photo: Filipe Naigulevu

courage to differentiate itself

from parties and people that
have the wrong focus or those
that have participated in coups
then I am wasting my time in
Fijian politics.
Recently, Mr Rabuka had told
SODELPA party members during
their annual general meeting that
they would need to reach out to
other political parties to win the
2018 general election.
But Ms Draunidalo was
adamant that the NFP would
not engage with people involved
in coups.
We are almost in 2020 and we
are still talking about coups. We
need to be decisive on the issue
and convince ourselves and the
country that we are a party that is
fittest for government, we need to
convince people that there is hope
for better and that the power is in
their hands, she said.
Member of Parliament and
NFP leader, Biman Prasad, aired
similar sentiments.

High economic projection for next three years: Koya

t is expected that higher

economic
growth
and
stability will endure over the
medium term in Fiji.
Minister for Industry, Trade
and Tourism Faiyaz Koya said this
at the opening of the roadshow of
Guandong Premium Products in
the Pacific Islands.

for business to thrive in Fiji. The

roadshow was attended by senior
government representatives of
Guangdong, 46 companies and
more than 60 representatives and
entrepreneurs from Guangdong
province. The event was held at
the Westin Denarau Island Resort
& Spa on Saturday, June 25.

15

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Women officers continue to make waves

aptain Kamilo said it was about

setting the right priorities and
putting God first in everything.
Im a testimony and Im not going to
hold back that testimony because like
everybody else, who has been through
struggles and tough times in lifethey
should never give up.
Captain Kamilos promotion is part
of the RFMFs focus on integrating a
gender perspective in all areas including
peacekeeping operations.
I echo the words of my Commander on
the day of commissioningwhen he saw us
getting commissioned, he said it had to do
with decision making and that weve been
entrusted with that role.
Captain Kamilo is currently posted to the
RFMF human resource cell. Mere Rokowati
Vunimo was also commissioned on the
same day. She was a Lance Corporal in the
other ranks corp and has been promoted
to Lieutenant or Junior Commissioned
Officer. Lieutenant Vunimo is from Navaka,
Noco, Rewa. She is 34 years old.
It is a milestone of an achievement for
me personally. The journey of wanting to
become a commissioned officer started
eight years ago when I initially attempted
the Officer Cadet Course, however, that
did not deter me. It took me all these
years of hard work and studying before
receiving this promotion. During that time
I had completed my Bachelors Degree and

Ministry opens
training
centre for
empowerment

T
Fesaitu Fatiaki Kamilo (left) and Lieutenant Mere Rokowati Vunimo (right)
Photo: Vilimoni Vaganalau

Postgraduate Diploma in Commerce in

Professional Accounting at the University
of the South Pacific by taking evening
classes. The promotion was a timely
reward for the sacrifices made. In terms
of my career, the promotion means more
responsibilities and I am excited at the
prospect of broadening my professional
responsibilities. Lieutenant Vunimo was
employed at the RFMF from 2007 to 2012.
She had a stint at the Fiji Corrections
Service from 2013 to 2015 before returning
to the Queen Elizabeth Barracks.
She is currently posted with the RFMF
Accounts Section under the guidance of the
Director Finance Logistics and Acquisition.

Her inspiration comes from the upbringing

and teachings of her parents.
Lieutenant Vunimo disregards the view
that only men can excel in the military.
The profession is just as rewarding to us
women as it is for our male counterparts,
provided we work hard and not rest
on our laurels. There are more women in
the military now than at any other time in
its history. We must use the opportunity
the RFMF has given us to continue the
good work that our male counterparts have
entrusted us, she said.
She also believes that there is nothing
impossible if you believe in yourself, do
your work and do it to your best.

he Ministry of Women, Children

and Poverty Alleviation opened
a new training centre for Shrest
Mothers Club in Samabula after granting
the organisation $9500. The ministry also
donated sewing machines.
Minister for Women, Children and
Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar said, Such
a move is a great encouragement to other
faith-based organisations and NGOs to
support the empowerment of women.
The world is realising that if you want
to have sustainable development, you need
to have women and men working in equal
partnership.
The Fijian Government is committed
to gender equality and in ensuring that
women realise their full potential and has
given our ministry a budget to extend our
reach to many more communities.
The club was established in the year 2001
and has been supporting the women of the
community with through donations. The
ministry has been allocated $56 million for
the 2016-2017 Budget.

www.indianweekender.co.nz

Congratulations

Kiwi Indian HOF 2016 winners

Chirag Sinh Solanki

www.icnz.ac.nz

Thought of the week

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is

the courage to continue that counts.
Winston S. Churchill

Editorial

From the desk of the

Managing Editor

n his well-renowned book, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Steven

Covey says, The commitments we make to ourselves and to others, and our
integrity to those commitments, is the essence and clearest manifestation of our
proactivity.
In the same vein, Tim Sanders from Today We Are Rich says: Of all the values
Billye holds, integrity is tops. Thats all youve got in the end, she told me once.
Shes right, too. If you dont respect yourself, you cannot maintain your confidence,
regardless of how well you follow all the other principles in this book. Nothing will
inform you as a person more than your actions, specifically your promise-keeping
ratio during your life. It defines you as either a truth-teller or a liar.
We at Indian Weekender are committed to serving the community to the best
of our ability and maintaining our standards of quality while we do that. The Kiwi
Indian Hall of Fame awards is one such occasion where we bring to fore and celebrate
those that have also committed to applying themselves to excelling in their fields of
endeavour. Our commitment to maintaining our standards also means that we have
to constantly upskill, train, and apply ourselves in keeping with the times. It also
often means working outside our comfort zones, but we all know that that is where
all the growth and development happens. So we encourage and support our team to
take on bigger challenges and continue to develop.

Pick of the week

We bring you the highlights of our gala event with details of our winners for
2016. We are also grateful for the numbers of congratulatory messages that we have
continued to receive towards our celebration and we have included them in this
issue. We are indeed humbled, grateful, and overwhelmed at the love and support
we have received from the Kiwi-Indian community and the larger community. As
we move ahead into a whole new year, we would like to renew our determination
to keep up with the commitment we make to our community. We realise that it is
because we have always endeavoured to stay true and remain proactive in our pursuit
of excellence that is behind the faith the community puts into us.
We hope you enjoy our dedication to the winners of the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame
2016.
Watch out for more pictures and video clips on our Facebook page.

Until next time.

Giri Gupta

Indian Weekender : Volume 8 Issue 15

Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited
Managing Editor: Giri Gupta | girigupta@xtra.co.nz
Editor: Annu Sharma | editor@indianweekender.co.nz
Chief Reporter: Swati Sharma | reporter@indianweekender.co.nz
Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | iwk.rizwan@gmail.com
Reporter: Esha Chanda | iwk.eshac@gmail.com
Chief Reporter - South Island: Gaurav Sharma
Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz
Sr Graphics and Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz
Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | designer@indianweekender.co.nz
Accounts and Admin.: accounts@indianweekender.co.nz
Sales, Marketing & Distribution: 022 3251630 / mahesh.iwk@gmail.com
Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher
is not responsible for advertisers claims as appearing in the publication
Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent
the views of the team at the Indian Weekender
Indian Weekender is published by Kiwi Media Group, 98 Great South Road, Auckland
Printed at Horton Media, Auckland
Copyright 2015. Kiwi Media Group. All Rights Reserved.

Halo Effect
Bioluminescent phytoplankton surround swimmers in circles of brilliant blue light in
Krabi, Thailand. (Photograph by Will Strathmann, National Geographic Your Shot)

Phrase: Flat stick

Meaning: Full speed
Usage: The care was going flat stick before it crashed

Tip from the trenches

Reduce your daily calorie intake

Start a meal with a salad and a glass

of water to reduce your appetite
Snack frequently on nuts to curb
your appetite
Eat more frequently at home
Bake and grill vegetables and meat
Use a smaller plate/bowl, as youre
more likely to control your
portion sizes

OPINION/EDITORIAL

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

17

US power: California has 3% of Indias

population, 125% of its GDP
Devanik Saha

s California, the US
richest state, recently
overtook France and
Brazil to become the worlds
sixth largest economy, according
to a Bloomberg analysis, a
comparison with India reveals
that California has three per
cent of Indias population but a
gross domestic product (GDP)
125% larger.
California, a powerhouse of
innovation and technology, has
39 million people, less than
Odisha that has a population of 41
million. Texas follows California
with a GDP of $1.58 trillion
(Rs 105 lakh crore)79% of
Indias current GDP with 2.1% of
its population.
This
data
offers
some
perspective as Indias economy
ranked eighth in 2015 with a GDP
of $2 trillion (Rs 134 lakh crore)
is projected to climb past Brazil,
the United Kingdom, France,
Germany and Japan and become
the worlds third-largest in 2030
with a GDP of $7.3 trillion (Rs
489 lakh crore), according to an
IndiaSpend analysis of 2015 US
government data.
Over these 15 years, Chinas

California has 39 million people, less than Odisha in India that has a
population of 41 million

GDP is projected to double to

$18.8 trillion (Rs 1,260 lakh
crore)more than twice its
current sizehelping narrow the
gap with the US, whose GDP in
2030 should be $23.8 trillion (Rs
1,595 lakh crore), according to the
US projection.
The US economy made up a
quarter of the global economy in
2006, 23% in 2015, and will be a
fifth by 2030. Indias GDP share
in the world will almost double
from 3.18% in 2015 to 6.2%
in 2030.
The Indian economy will
more than double to $5 trillion
in a matter of few years, said

factoring in their population,

to indicate the magnitude by
which India lags the US in wealth
and productivity. That lag also
indicates the potential for Indias
future growth-if that potential
is realised.
The GDP Of Maharashtra,
Indias richest state = GDP of
Connecticut, 23rd richest US state
With a GDP of $2.5 trillion (Rs
168,000 crore), Californiaalso
the most populous statecreated
the most jobs of any state in
the US in 2015, more than the
second and third-most-populous
states, Florida and Texas,
combined. Four of
the
worlds
10
largest companies
are
based
in
California.
With far fewer
people, US states
have economies
that are not just
richer but more
productive
than
those of Indian states.
With a GDP of $0.26
trillion (Rs 18 lakh crore),
Maharashtra is Indias richest
state, followed by Tamil Nadu
($0.17 trillion, Rs 11.2 lakh
crore) and Uttar Pradesh ($0.16

The
Indian
economy
will more than
double to $5
trillion in a
matter of few
years

Finance Minister
Arun Jaitley in
June, as the
government
steps
on
its reforms
agenda
to
accelerate
growth.
The
US
projection said
India will cross
the $5 trillion mark
in 2025.
To illustrate the size and
power of the US economy, we
compared Indias GDP to the
GDP of individual US states,

trillion, Rs 10.4 lakh crore).

Maharashtras
GDP
almost
equals that of Connecticut
($0.26 trillion), ranked 23rd in
the US by GDP. Maharashtras
area is 21 times larger and it has
a population 31 times as large
as Connecticut.
Tamil Nadu has a GDP
almost equal to that of Iowa, the
30th richest state in the US.
The Indian economy is a
bright spot in an economically
depressed global landscape, and
is the worlds fastest growing, said
a 2015 report by the International
Monetary Fund (IMF).
The
Indian
governments
efforts to improve business
climate have gained momentum,
the IMF report said, emphasising
reforms
in
key
areas.
These include:
Addressing bottlenecks in the
energy, mining and power
sectors
Increasing investment to help
close Indias major infrastructure gaps
Simplifying land acquisition
and environmental clearances
Reforming the agriculture
sector to ensure greater efficiencies in food procurement,
distribution, and storage

Is Aam Aadmi Party losing steam in Punjab?

Jaideep Sarin

would be its face for the assembly

polls. The main contenders are
AAP Punjab Convener Sucha
Singh Chhotepur, who has been
leading the partys affairs for the
past over two years; and the AAP
MP from Sangrur, comedianturned-politician
Bhagwant
Mann. Even the name of Delhi
Chief Minister and AAP convener
Arvind Kejriwal is mentioned
sometimes but that is unlikely
to happen.
The AAP leadership has also
not made much effort or headway
in getting back into its fold two of

fter being seen as the

strongest
political
challenger in Punjab
ahead of next years assembly
elections and even being touted to
be the front-runner in occupying
power in the state, the Aam
Aadmi Party (AAP) seems to be
losing a bit of that steam.
The AAP leadership in the state
is now grappling with problems
such as finding a face to project
as its chief ministerial candidate,
deciding on tickets for the 117
assembly seats and even keeping
its leaders and flock together.
With the ruling Shiromani
Akali Dal-BJP alliance and the
opposition Congress sharpening
their attacks on the AAP, the
newest political force in Punjab
is finding it difficult to keep pace
with the political peak that it had
attained earlier this year.
Opinion polls by private
agencies, political parties and
even some intelligence agencies
had put AAP in the front seat as
far as winning the next assembly
electionlikely to be held in
February 2017is concerned.
The AAP was being projected as
getting between 72 and 85 seats

The AAP leadership is grappling with problems such as finding a face to

project as its chief ministerial candidate

in the assembly. AAP leaders

themselves started believing that
the party would get more than
100 seats and would do a repeat
of Delhi, where it won a whopping
67 of the 70 assembly seats in the
February 2015 elections.
Among other things, the AAP
has not been able to announce its
first list of candidates, which it
had promised to announce by the
last week of May or the first week
of June.
AAP in-charge for Punjab
Sanjay Singh said earlier that the

first list of candidates would be

released latest by the first week
of June. The party has now put off
the release till end of this month.
Insiders say that too many
candidates seeking a ticket
from
each
constituency
caused the delay. When the
names are announced, a lot of
people will get upset and the
party leadership is worried about
a rebellion before the assembly
polls, one senior AAP leader
said. The AAP has also not been
able to select one leader who

When the names

are announced, a
lot of people will
get upset and the
party leadership
is worried about
a rebellion before
the assembly
polls
its sitting MPs from Punjab.
Last
August,
the
AAP
had suspended party MPs
Dharamavira
Gandhi
and

Harinder Singh Khalsa from

its primary membership and
initiated disciplinary proceedings
against
them.
Gandhi,
a
cardiologist and known social
worker, is an MP from Patiala
constituency while Khalsa, a
former diplomat, represents
Fatehgarh Sahib.
The Akali Dal is highlighting
the double standards of the
Kejriwal government in Delhi
on contentious issues like river
waters and justice for the 1984
anti-Sikh riot victims.
The Congress openly accuses
Kejriwal and AAP of misleading
people and even charges them
with telling lies. Both the
parties are also trying to pin
the outsider tag on the AAPs
top leadership, which is mainly
from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
It is clear that the Akali Dal-BJP
alliance and the Congress are not
comfortable with a triangular
contest that the AAP is creating.
The AAP, on its part, will have
to get its act together well in time
to ensure that it takes advantage
of its position as a serious
challenger in the assembly polls.
Otherwise, it will have to pay the
political price of having peaked at
the wrong time.

18

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Treat urbanisation as opportunity, not

calamity: PM
P
rime Minister Narendra
Modi on Saturday, June
25, urged city planners
not to treat urbanisation as a
calamity but as an opportunity
to enrich and improve the
lives of the people in an
all-inclusive manner.
Inaugurating 84 varied Smart
City Projects for 20 selected
Indian cities under the Smart
Cities Mission, Modi said until
now the trend was to treat
urbanisation as some kind of
a bane instead of grabbing
the opportunity to plan ahead
for the future.
Cities have the strength
to digest poverty and provide
economic
opportunities
for
the poorest coming from other
less-developed areas. We must
further strengthen the cities to
increase this digestive ability,
make it faster and wider...
economic
prosperity
will
automatically follow, he said.
Terming the Smart City

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the launching of Smart City project

Dismissing apprehensions about

Smart Cities, the prime minister
said that it entailed providing
sufficient
water,
electricity,
cleanliness, traffic management,
decent housing for all, solid
and liquid waste management,
emergency services, couple with
technology to make life easy and
comfortable for all. Lauding
the people of the country for
being the smartest, he said that
once the masses are adequately

Mission as not just a concept

or allocation of funds, but a
public-based movement, Modi
said that the experiment has
worked successfully.
Citing an example, he said Pune
missed the top slot by a narrow
margin to Bhubaneshwar and
asked the city mayor Prashant
Jagtap about what had happened?
He expressed hope that in
the next round of competition,
Pune would emerge at the top.

empowered and their skills

harnessed, there would be no
need for governance and the
country would progress smoothly.
The 20 selected Smart Cities
were linked to the Pune venue
through
video
conferences
wherein their states Chief
Ministers and other leaders
gave details of their plans for
the Smart Cities in their states.
Rajasthans Vasundhara Raje,
Odishas Navin Patnaik and

Andhra Pradeshs Chandrababu

Naidu joined for a live interaction
at the venue and outlined the
mission statements for the
Smart Cities selected in their
respective states. Earlier Modi
visited an expo on Smart Cities,
inaugurated a contest on Make
Your City Smart and a Smart Net
Portal on the outskirts of Pune.
Maharashtra Governor C. V.
Rao presided over the function,
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
and Union Urban Development
Minister Venkaiah Naidu gave
an overview of the Smart Cities
Mission, while Minister of
State for Urban Development
Babul Supriyo proposed a
vote of thanks.
Also present on the occasion
were
Union
Environment
Minister
Prakash
Javdekar,
Maharashtra Food & Civil
Supplies Minister Girish Bapat,
Pune Mayor Jagtap, Chief
Secretary Swadheen Kshatriya
and other dignitaries.

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19

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Sky is the limit for Indias

infrastructural appetite:
Jaitley

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tressing that India will improve

upon its 7.6% growth of last
fiscal, Finance Minister Arun
Jaitley has said the sky is the limit
for the countrys appetite to draw
infrastructural investments.
In an interview to Chinas English
language television channel, he said
infrastructure finance is also one of
the main focus areas for the first board
of governors meeting of the Asian
Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
The potential for investing in
infrastructure, urbanisation, housing,
power, electricity, water, social sector, for
us even today, the sky is the limit. Thats
the kind of investments we require, Jaitley
said in the interview.
Depending on the kind of finances that
are initially available, we would like to see
which ones of these projectssome of them
could be financed by the AIIBA, he said.
India has a massive infrastructure
programme which is going on. There
are programmes of highways, railways,
airports, sea ports and also programmes
with
respect
to
water
supplies,
sewages, smart city creation, more
urbanisation, he added.
The finance minister said a good
monsoon this year will boost rural
economy and therefore add to the growth
rate of the economy.
We grew by 7.6% last year, well
certainly maintain that and with a good
monsoon, hopefully improve upon that. It
(growth rate) is sustainable for the reason
that India still has lot of distance in terms
of economic growth to cover, he said.
Jaitley said currently the public finances

Work for Lifestyle, Security, Success and Fulfilment

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley

are taking the lead in infrastructure

financing in India, but in due course as
the economy picks up, the private sector
will also boost it. Emphasising that India
has been the second largest partner in
China-led AIIB, he said that these parallel
institutions are developing because of the
need of infrastructure finance.
I think it is inevitable that irrespective
of the theme of the conference, this issue
(infrastructure finance) will dominate
all economic discussions, he said. Even
though the new technology industrial
revolution is likely to come, in large
populated economies such as India job
growth is also extremely important,
he said.
I think these are inevitable subjects but
at the root of it all, the issue is that there
is a global slowdown. As to how long will
this continue, how does the world pull itself
out of the situation, and how does growth
return to the world, he said.

India formally joins Missile Technology

Control Regime

n a diplomatic success, India became a

full member of the Missile Technology
Control Regime (MTCR) on Monday,
June 26, three days after it failed to join the
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) following
Chinas opposition.
India has joined the Missile Technology
Control Regime (MTCR) this morning.
The MTCR Point of Contact in Paris has
conveyed the decision regarding Indias
accession to the regime through the
Embassy of France in New Delhi as well
as the Embassies of The Netherlands
and Luxembourg, the Ministry of

Indian army officers stand on vehicles

displaying missiles during the Republic Day
parade in New Delhi

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External Affairs said. India became the

35th member of the MTCR, of which China
awaits membership.
India first applied for the membership in
2008 and China in 2004.

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20

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

First Tejas squadron with two jets to be

ready on July 1

he
first
squadron
of
indigenous
Light
Combat
Aircraft
Tejaschristened Flying Daggers
45will be in place on July 1
with the handing over of two
LCA by the makers Hindustan
Aeronautics Limited to the Indian
Air Force.
IAF officials said on Monday,
June 26, the first LCA squadron
will be based in Bangalore in
Karnataka for two years before
shifting to Sulur in Tamil Nadu.
Starting with two aircraft, the
squadron will get six more jets by
2017 to make it fully operational.
The LCA is far superior to
Pakistans JF-17 built jointly with
China, the IAF added.
The
indigenous
fighter
jet, which is still to get full
operational clearance, is expected
to get into combat role next year,
officials said. IAFs squadron

Regarded as the smallest and the lightest combat jet in the world, the indigenously-designed Tejas during initial
operational clearance (IOC-II) test in Bangalore

number 45, Flying Daggers, has

to its credit the shooting down
of a Pakistani naval surveillance
aircraft in 1999, some 300 km
northeast of Karachi, killing all 16
people on board.
The squadron, which was based
at Nalia air base in Gujarat, was

flying MIG-21 Bis at that time.

It is an excellent platform with
proven airworthiness and superb
safety record ever registered by
any fighter jet in the world, a
senior IAF official said.
During its 3,000 hours of
sorties in the development phase,

the LCA registered more than

2,500 hours of exceptionally
clean flights, he added. The first
Tejas squadron will consist of 20
aircraft, with four in reserve.
Officials said the second LCA
squadron will be raised with
improved capabilities, including

India deserves to be in NSG: US

he US reiterated its support

for Indias admission to the
Nuclear Suppliers Group
in the wake of the latters failed
membership bid at the NSG plenary
meet last week in Seoul.
India has a strong record, and
deserves to be included in the NSG.
That is why the administration,
including senior White House and
State Department officials, made a
concerted effort to secure Indias
membership in the recent NSG
plenary session held in Seoul, US
Ambassador to India Richard Verma
said while delivering a talk on India-US
trade relations.
We were disappointed India was
not admitted during this recent
session, but we will continue to work
constructively with India and all the

US Ambassador to India Richard Verma

NSG members on Indias accession

in the months ahead. Six years ago,
President Obama first expressed his
support for Indias membership in

the NSG. Since that time, we have

worked closely with our Indian
counterparts and NSG members
to help advance Indias case for
membership, he said. Indias latest
bid for an NSG membership that
would allow it to trade in nuclear
materials and technology was foiled
by China on the grounds that New
Delhi has not signed the Nuclear
Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Referring
to
some
hurdles
in
boosting
Indo-US
trade,
Verma urged for progress on
concluding a bilateral investment
treaty (BIT).
We have been on-again off-again
for about eight years in our pursuit
of a treaty. And Im afraid things
have become a bit more difficult, the
envoy said.

NEW ZEALAND FIRST LIST MP

MAHESH
BINDRA
BASED IN AUCKLAND

Contact
Auckland Office

Level 1, 21 East Tamaki Rd, Papatoetoe, Auckland 2025

Ph: 0800 BINDRA (246372)
mahesh.bindra@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Mahesh Bindra,

Parliament Buildings, Wellington

critical necessity of missile firing

to Beyond Visual Range. The IAF
plans to induct over 80 aircraft
with better specifications, known
as Tejas 1A.
In
the
coming
years,
altogether 120 Tejas jets are to
be inducted, replacing MiG-21s,
which perform the role of close
combat support.
Tejas is far, far better than
MiG-21s in terms of safety as its
fly-by-wire system is the stateof-the-art in the world, an IAF
official said.
The improved Tejas-1A will be
far more superior than the first
two squadrons, since these will
have mid-air refuelling, modern
internal radar warning receiver
and
external
self-protection
jammer
pod
to
enhance
survivability and an active
electronically scanned array
radar, the officials added.

Andhra signs
MoU with
Chinese firms for
industrial park

n international industrial park will come up in

Andhra Pradesh, which is expected to attract
investment of $6.4 billion.
An MoU in this regard was signed by the state
government on Monday, June 26, with China Association
of Small and Medium Enterprises and China Small and
Medium Investment Group Limited, Beijing during
the current visit by 13-member delegation led by Chief
Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to China.
The project to come at Donakonda in Prakasam district
will comprise a Building Materials Industrial Park and
Modern Building Materials Logistics Park.
The industrial park, the first of its kind in India, will
give a major boost to make in Andhra Pradesh, said a
statement from the chief ministers office.
The Building Material Industrial park will come up
in an area of 20 square km with an investment of $0.9
billion and will manufacture all categories of building
materials and low-carbon energy-saving new materials.
This park will provide direct employment to
10,000 people.
The Modern Building Materials Logistics Park will also
be set up in 20 square km with an investment of $5.5
billion and will take care of the distribution and be a
logistics centre of all categories of building materials. As
many as 35,000 people will be directly employed.
The proposed total investment is $6.4 billion and the
facility will be completed in three phases.
The park will attract manufacturing industries and
logistics companies from China and other countries to
invest and set up units.
The products manufactured will be supplied to local
markets, other areas of India and the export market.
The park will manufacture structured materials like
wood, bamboos, stones, cement, concrete, metals, bricks,
tiles, ceramics, glass, engineering plastics and composite
materials, etc.
Decoration materials like coatings, paint, cladding
materials, veneering, ceramic tiles in all colours and
glass with special effects etc will also be manufactured.

INDIA ABROAD

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

21

Tata Trusts, Chicago university tie up to

work on Indian development challenges
Vishnu Makhijani

new initiative between Tata

Trusts and the University of
Chicago will collaborate in
ideation and solution-seeking to complex
developmental challenges in crucial
areas such as sanitation, energy and the
environment, a US don of Indian origin
who heads the venture said.
We are planning a three-year pilot of a
new integrated approach to development
work. We will work in a few verticals
to starthealth, water and sanitation
and energy and the environment,
Anup Malani, faculty director of the
newly-created
Tata
Centre
for
Development at the University of Chicago
(UChicago) said.
The health vertical will examine
healthcare access through insurance with
projects in Karnataka and Andra Pradesh.
The water and sanitation vertical will begin
a major project on decentralised irrigation
with water tanks in Telangana.
The energy and environment vertical
will examine projects to improve reporting

of emissions by plants in Gujurat and

Maharashtra, to provide rural electrical
power via solar microgrids in Bihar, and
to encourage individuals to pay for better
electricity supply in Bihar.
We will also work on ideation
the generation of new solutions to
development challengesthrough two
additional projects. We will support an
Urban Challenge in Delhi that asks NGOs
and government officials to propose new
ways to tackle air pollution, Malani, the
Lee and Brena Freeman Professor at the
UChicago Law School and Professor at the
Pritzker School of Medicine, explained.

We will also support a partnership

between the UChicagos International
Innovation Corps (IIC) and OpenIDEO,
a division of the design consulting firm
IDEO, to use OpenIDEO internet based
platform to crowdsource solutions to, for
example, urban sanitation problems, and
then to pilot those solutions using IIC
teams in collaboration with municipal
governments, he added.
Malani, the co-founder of the IIC and
principal investigator on the Indian Health
Insurance Experiment, a 12,000-household
study of health insurance in Karnataka,
also elaborated on how the initiative will
work in the southern state.
First, the TCD will take on a large
randomised control trial to examine
the benefits and costs of expanding
the governments largest secondary
hospital care insurance programme,
the Rastriya Swasthya Bima Yojana
(RSBY), to Above-Poverty-Line (APL)
households, a group not currently
eligible for RSBY and underserved by
commercial insurers. Second, it will send an
IIC team to work with the Suvarna Arogya

French European Indian

Organisation launched in Paris

Suraksha Trust (SAST), which operates

both RSBY and the Vajypayee Arogyashree
(a tertiary care hospital insurance scheme)
to help improve the implementation of
those schemes, Malani said.
How did the TCD, which will be based
at the UChicago Centre in New Delhi,
come about?
The IIC programme was already
operating in India. However, we wanted
to verify the government projects IIC
helps implement. At the same time we
wanted to ensure that impact evaluations
UChicago was conducting in India had an
impact on policy and implementation.
To address both problems, we proposed
the TCD, which combines research (impact
evaluation) and implementation (mainly
through IIC). In addition, we folded in
training component for government
officials and NGO leaders because we felt
they were the primary change agents in
India and could best help scale impactful
interventions, Malani said. A proposal
was then made to Tata Trusts, which were
already working on two IIC projects.

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From left to right: First Secretary, Press and Culture, Lavanya Kumar; Vice President
Jasmine Marecar; Ambassador of India to France Dr Mohan Kumar; President Satish Reddy;
Minister of Consultate Pankaj Saxena

mbassador of India to France Dr

Mohan Kumar, French European-Indian Organisation President
Satish Reddy, First Secretary, Press and
Culture, Lavanya Kumar and First Secretary, Community Affairs, Dheeraj Mukhia
during the inauguration.JPG An organisation to promote social, economic and
cultural cooperation between India and
Europe has been established with a base in
the French capital.
French European Indian Organisation
(FEIO) hopes to be a catalyst for the two
sides to realise their full economic potential,
a statement from the organisation said
on Saturday, June 25. It is very good
that the organisation is getting both the

countries together as the members and its

community can help the world and India
to grow bigger, Indian Ambassador to
France Mohan Kumar said.
The aim of FEIO is to promote
entrepreneurship and facilitate industrial
growth and assist organisations to network
for strategic partnerships, either technical
or commercial, the statement said.
This forum will help members to have
bilateral trade with France, Europe,
and India.
It plays an advocacy role on a wide
range of matters and acting as an impetus
to growth and development of businesses,
on policy and implementation matters,
FEIO president Satish Reddy said.

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1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Euro 2016: France and Germany enter

quarterfinal
Germany blow away
Slovakia 30

orld
Champions
Germany pulled out
the right cards to
trump Slovakia 30 and enter the
quarterfinals of the Euro 2016 on
Sunday, June 26.
Jerome Boateng scored the
opener in the eighth minute of
the game, which was followed
by strikes from Mario Gomez
(43) and Julian Draxler (63) in
the round of 16 tie at the Stade
Pierre-Mauroy.
Germany tried attacking from
the outset and Sami Khedira
almost gave them the lead in
the sixth minute but Slovakia
goalkeeper Matus Kozacik was
well positioned to thwart away
his header.
A little later however, Boateng
found the back of the net with
a crisp volley. It was a corner
kick, which was cleared till the
edge of the box, and the centreback let loose a strong shot that

was enough to beat Kozacik.

Germany kept on the pressure
and had a chance to double
their lead in the 12th minute.
Mario Gomez was brought
down in the area and they were
awarded a penalty.
Mesut Ozil stepped up and let
one fly of his left boot but Kozacik
guessed it right and was able
to palm away the strike diving
to his left. Germany had
two more chances to grab a
two-goal cushion but both
Thomas Mueller and Ozils efforts
fizzed wide off target.Slovakia
had their moment in the 41st
minute but Juraj Kuckas header
was brilliantly tipped over the
bar by German custodian Manuel
Neuer. At the other end though, a
few minutes later Gomez scored
from close range. But the gigantic
striker was set up by Draxler who
delivered a pin-point pass after a
delightful run.
At
the
break,
Germany
led 2-0. Slovakia tried upsetting
the German tempo by bringing

Germany's Jerome Boateng celebrates with teammates after scoring his

side's first goal during the Euro 2016 round of 16 soccer match between
Germany and Slovakia

in Jan Gregus but it did not work

either. Germany still looked
menacing everytime they were on
the ball. Just after the hour mark,
Draxler made sure his side had
their third, as he volleyed home
from close using great technique.
All Germany had to do in the
last 20 minutes or so was to not
give too much possession away
and that is precisely what they did
to seal the victory.

France beats Ireland

Antoine
Griezmann
scored twice to help hosts
France beat Ireland 21 and
reach the quarterfinals of
European Championship.
Griezman cancelled out a 10
lead of Ireland with a header in
the second half and then scored
the winner three minutes later
during the match on Sunday.

Ireland took a surprise 10 lead

after only two minutes when
France midfielder Paul Pogba
made a foul on Shane Long from
behind and Italian referee Nicola
Rizzoli immediately pointed at
the penalty spot.
Robbie Brady, who plays for
English
Championship
side
Norwich City, stepped in to fire
a low penalty into France keeper
Hugo Lloriss left-hand post.
France looked nervous in front
of a watching President Francois
Hollande but they soon controlled
the game and their attacking
trio of Olivier Giroud, Dimitri
Payet and Griezmann regained
sharpness as expected.
In the 58th minute, Payet found
Bacary Sagna on the right wing
and the Manchester City right
backcrossed for Griezmann to
head home on the penalty spot.
Quarterfinals will also see
Poland battle against Portugal
on Friday, July 1 and Wales face
Belgium on Saturday, July 2.

Coach Kumblea new role for the old horse

Kumar Suresh

eldom does it happen that a big

decision taken at the BCCIs
headquarters is not only unopposed
but also unanimously applauded across
various forums. Indian legendry spinner
Anil Kumbles appointment as the Indian
coach is one such instance. With voices
ranging from former and present cricketers
to sports journalists across the globe
hailing the appointment, BCCI for the first
time in many years have proved that it can
do things in a transparent manner too.
This, after Indian courts drubbing BCCI
as unconstitutional and a body with many
irregularities requiring reforms, is a shot
in the arm for the board that is desperately
trying to set things straight within its rank.
Without an iota of doubt, credit for
this masterstroke goes to three of the
best batsmen in Indian cricket: Sachin
Tendulkar, Saurav Ganguly and VVS
Laxman, who formed the committee that
overlooked the process of selecting the
head coach for the Indian team. It would
be worth imagining how the mood of the
meeting room would have been when
these players from the recent past, who
have played more than 100 tests with each
other, joined hands to take one of the most
important decisions in Indian cricket.

Kumble as coach
This former Indian captain is a fighter.
In his playing days, he was an epitome of
courage, determination and grittiness.

One look at his career stats is enough

for anyone to fall in the line of his long
queue of fans. He is the third highest
wicket-taker in the cricket history and
one of the most respected cricketers in
the world. Be it his 10 wicket haul against
Pakistan or the images of him coming to
bowl with heavy bandage strapping up his
broken jaw against West Indies in 2002,
this man can only inspire youngsters in a
positive manner.
An Indian coach is required to be
extremely efficient in managing people
in and around the team and still take a
backseat. Kumble ticks all the boxes. The
best example of that can be the way he
handled the sponsorship crisis just before
the 2003 World Cup when he became
the face of the agitating players union.
Another example can be when he took over
the captaincy in 2008 at the age of 37 and
singlehandedly sailed the ship of Indian
cricket during the infamous monkey gate
incident involving Symonds and Harbhajan
Singh during the Australian tour. On all
occasions, Kumble came out with his head
held high.

Handling captain
In Indian cricket, the coachs term at
the helm is directly proportional to the
relationship he has with the captain. In
this regards, Kumble has had a nice start
already. He has previously captained Virat
Kohli in IPL and his stature as a player
will have a forceful impact on the captain.
Compared to others, it will also be a lot

easier for Kumble to show the aggressive

Kohli the other side of the coin if the need
arises, simply because of the stature of this
man. Also, it can be safely assumed that the
two will get along well because they both
are extremely competitive and have no
non-sense approach to the game.

Handling team
Coming to the team, it is totally different
from the team he once captained. It doesnt
have stars and apart from Kohli and R
Ashwin, there hardly seems to be a player
who has cemented his place in the national
squad yet. His main
goal
would
be to identify
players who
can form the
core the team
for a long-term.
He also needs to
address the bowling department,
which has faltered more than
the number of times it has
actually delivered.
Although Kumble doesnt have
prior experience as a coach, he
has all the ingredients to become
a great one. His never-say-die attitude,
hunger for success and commitment
are only a few qualities among many he
possesses. It now remains to be seen how
he goes about converting these qualities
into being a mentor for youngsters
who look up to this cricketing giant with
respect. For now, it is the beginning of the

Kohli-Kumble partnership. One can only

hope that the two take the Indian cricket
to new heights. Kohli and his team would
do well in trying to emulate Kumbles feats
and Kumble, on the other hand, would
have done a wonderful job if he leads the
youngsters to achieve even half of what he
achieved as a cricketer.

23

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

e
g
d
e
l
w
o
n
k
h
t
i
Fun w
The greedy mouse

A
Find the paths to help the baby
fish find their moms fish

greedy mouse saw a basket

full of corn. He wanted to eat
it. So he made a small hole in
the basket. He squeezed in through
the hole and ate a lot of corn.
After he felt contended, the mouse
tried to come out, but he failed. His
belly was too full. He tried over and over again but he couldn't manage
to squeeze out.
Helpless, the mouse started crying. A rabbit, who was passing by, heard
the mouse's cry and asked, Why are you crying, my friend?
The mouse explained: I made a small hole and came into the basket.
Now I am not able to get out through that hole.
To this, the rabbit replied, It is because you ate too much. Wait till your
belly shrinks. The rabbit laughed and went away.
The mouse fell asleep in the basket. Next morning, his belly had shrunk.
But the mouse wanted to eat some corn. So he ate and ate, and his
belly was full once again. He thought: Oh! Now I will go out tomorrow.
Hoping that someone would pass by, the mouse waited. But the next
passerby was a cat! He smelt the mouse in the basket. Overcome with
hunger and greediness, the cat lifted the lid of the basket
and ate the mouse.

Fun Facts

Connects the dots

1. The sun is more than 30,0000

larger than the Earth
2.

Venus is the hottest planet in our

solar system

3.

The universe has no centre and is

constantly expanding every second,
making it impossible to reach the
edge

4.

A day on Mercury lasts longer than

its year. Mercury moves around the
sun faster than any other planet,
making its year the equivalent of 88
Earth days.

5.

There are more stars in the universe

than grains of sand on all the beaches
on Earth. That's at least a billion
trillion!

Send us stories, drawings, poems and other contributions by your

little ones along with their photographs for this page. E-mail us at
editor@indianweekender.co.nz

24

WORLD

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Brexita symptom of discontent against

inequality
Dev Nadkarni

an overwhelming vote to remain, it is being

forced to toe the majority line to leave. So it
is seriously considering a second referendum
to ask its people whether it should leave the
United Kingdom. Over in the EU, member
nations are beginning to worry if Brexit is the
beginning of the end of the EU. Would other
countries see less and less value in remaining
in the union in the coming months and years?
There is discontent in some countries already
while in some others, the voices to leave are
becoming shriller post-Brexit.

ike a massive earthquake, Brexit,

in one fell swoop, has laid bare the
many deep fissures and fault lines
that so dangerously divide not just Britain
but the world at large in so many different
ways today.
Statistical and psephology analyses quickly
revealed that the vote was split between blue
collar and white collar, urban and rural, the
less educated and university graduates, haves
and have-nots and along distinct geographical
areas (think Scotland, which has created a
whole new post-Brexit problem for Britain,
but thats an entirely different story).
The leave voters clearly had a deep sense
of disenfranchisement that has been bubbling
away for years. The establishment, not only
in Britain but also in many western countries
around the world, seems increasingly out of
touch with the hoi polloithe people at the
grassroots. In recent decades the nexus of
mutual convenience between the political and
business elite is so blatantly self-serving that
those who dont see themselves belonging
there have been hardened to embrace
ideologies of the far right: nationalism,
insularity, and xenophobia.
This is happening around the world. The
success of Donald Trumps campaign for his
presidential nomination is another example
of this. A certain sizable demographic at the
grassroots level is fed up with the politically
correct, please all brand of centrism. People
increasingly want leaders to take a stand. Go
left or right. The centre isnt cool anymore,
at least among those who feel theyve been
left out by that self-serving nexus between
politics and big business.
India, the worlds biggest democracy, too,
has in recent years displayed a marked shift
to the right, with the centrist UPA and the
once ubiquitous Congress party nowhere in
the political reckoning in recent years.

Lessons for New Zealand

and the disenfranchised go out to vote, they

vote with more emotion than rationality and
it is no surprise that many werent even aware
of the full consequences that would unfold
after Britain left the European Union. Reports
said that EU was among the most searched
words on Google after the Brexit vote. The
remain voters accused the government of
not adequately explaining the repercussions
of leaving to those backing that move.

When the
disappointed and the
disenfranchised go out
to vote, they vote with
more emotion than
rationality and it is
no surprise that many
werent even aware of
the full consequences
that would unfold
after Britain left the
European Union.

The malaise of inequality

Forces that drove Brexit are a symptom
of this widespread malaise of growing
inequality: it was more an angry vote against
the establishment. When the disappointed

Discontent on several fronts has been

brewing in the UK for years. But it is the highly
emotive issue of immigration that seems

Brexit and its implications

on New Zealand
Winston Peters
NZ First leader

gainst the predictions of most, the

British people have voted to leave
the European Union.
There were so many outsiders, foreign
power brokers, and financial market
manipulators who intruded in the
referendum and expert after expert saying
it was doomsday if the British voted to leave.
They got it wrong.
Having ignored the mass majority of the
British people for decades they woke up to a
serious drop in the stock market and in the
value of the pound sterling.

For New Zealand, it is a tremendous

window of opportunity. We can get a trade
deal with the UK. We cant get a decent trade
deal with the EU and whilst the UK was in
the EU, we were denied access to them.
If our government had known what it was
doing they would have been talking to the
British about this a long time ago. They dont
and they havent.
Prime Minister Cameron made a giant
blunder in his approach to the referendum.
And typically his good friend Prime
Minister Key made a similar blunder when
he said the British should stay. Whoever we
send to negotiate the free trade deal with the
UK should not be John Key.
Anyone watching the BBC saw all these
people giving their views and no one went
to the working people and asked for their
commentary, but suit after suit was talking
about working peoples situation.

Britain Prime Minister David Cameron

to have played a major part in hardening

the stance of the leave voters. Being part
of the EU has brought in a flood of workers
from other poorer European countries such
as Poland into Britain, with the immigrants
eager to work for far less wages than the
typical British blue collar worker is used
to. The sudden spike in anti-Polish rhetoric
and signs that have sprung up particularly
in Britains rust belt (which overwhelmingly
voted to leave) are a rather discomforting
testimony to this.
The consequences for not just Britain but
also for the EU are flying thick and fast.
Scotland feels shortchanged that despite

At the heart of the issue is inequalitythe

widening and deepening chasm between
the rich and the poor across the world.
Incredibly, we see this phenomenon as the
world frenetically pursues globalisation,
ostensibly to create a more equitable and
egalitarian world. But the exact opposite
seems to be happening. Instead of being
distributed equitably, wealth is being even
further concentrated. Statistics in every
country underscores the fact that the gulf is
ever widening.
Inequality in New Zealand is growing fast.
Last week Statistics New Zealand figures said
the countrys richest 10% owns 60% of its
wealth while the poorest 40% owns a paltry
10%. These are the sorts of figures that are
bandied about by pro-poor NGOs ahead of
high-profile annual jamborees of the rich and
famous like the Davos meet in Switzerland
every January. Much is discussed and lip
service paid. But little ever is done to bridge
the chasm at the policy level and ensure a
more equitable distribution of global wealth.
Brexit is a red light for the entire world.
More than just a desire to leave the EU, it needs
to be seen as a vote of no confidence in the
status quo of the establishment. Discontent,
when it bubbles over, could manifest itself in
many wayswhether it is leaving an elite club
of nations, bringing in an extreme right-wing
president, a rising tide of xenophobia against
immigrants or having to live in cars because
of housing unaffordability. Inequality is
fertile ground for such disasters to unfold.
Dev Nadkarni is the founding editor of
Indian Weekender

Cameron to quit as PM after

Britain exits EU

rime Minister David Cameron on

June 24 announced that he will step
down by October after the UK voted
to leave the European Union.
The British people have decided to follow
another path. So they need a new prime
minister, Cameron said in a televised
statement outside Downing Street after
the final Brexit result was announced.
Cameron came under severe pressure
to quit as the United Kingdom voted
5248% to leave the EU after 43 years in a
historic referendum.
Immediately after the result, Labour
Partys Hilary Benn, the shadow foreign
secretary, said it was very hard for Cameron
to continue under such circumstances.
If you are the Prime Minister, youve called
this referendum, youve laid your reputation
on the line and your arguments, I think
its going to be very hard, Benn said.
Cameron, in his statement, said he was

absolutely clear about my belief that

Britain is stronger, safer and better
off inside the European Union. And I
made clear the referendum was about
this and this alone, not the future of
any single politician, including myself.
He said he would do everything
I can as prime minister to steady
the ship in the coming months.
But I do not think it would be right for me to
try to be the captain that steers our country to
its next destination. But I do believe its in the
national interest to have a period of stability
and then a new leadership required.
He didnt set out a timetable when the
country will have the next prime minister.
There is no need for a precise timetable
today. But in my view, we should aim to have
a new prime minister in place by the start of
the Conservative party conference in October.
I love this country and I feel honoured to
have served it, he said.

25

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

By Manisha Koushik

Weekly forecast: JUly 1 to July 7

Manisha Koushik is the talented daughter and associate of world renowned celebrity astrologer Dr
Prem Kumar Sharma. A practicing astrologer, tarot card reader, numerologist, vastu and fengshui consultant is based in India but maintains a global presence through the online channels. She is available
for consultations online as well. Let her tarot cards do the magic and numbers make you understand
which choices in life will be best for you!
E-mail: support@askmanisha.com | Website: www.askmanisha.com
Contact: +91-11-26449898 Mobile/Whatsapp: +919015607139

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

You may have to do the balancing trick if you want

to stay on top. Those after perfect figure are likely
to endure the hardships associated with it. Much
struggle is in store for those looking for a suitable job.
A deal you have helped clinch is likely to slip through.
A keen foresight will be required on the financial front
to remain monetarily strong. Someones unexpected
arrival may compel you to change your plans for the
week.
Lucky No.: 2 / Lucky Colour: Sky blue

Someone you have been trying to appease

may start giving positive indications. Your selfconfidence is likely to win the week for you on the
professional front. Those waiting for recognition at
work will not be disappointed. A family gathering
is on the cards and will prove most enjoyable.
Whatever your heart desires on the romantic front,
it is likely to get fulfilled. An interesting travelling
companion is likely to make a long journey short.
Health remains satisfactory.
Lucky No.: 11 / Lucky Colour: Orange

Getting additional responsibilities at work may prove

tiresome but will benefit you in the long run. You are
likely to impress a lot of people by your confidence
and gift of the gab. Socially, you may be much
sought after for your communication skills. Although
earning remains steady, it may prompt you to find
ways to increase the same. A family gathering is
likely to present you with a captive audience, so
impress whoever you can!
Lucky No.: 1 / Lucky Colour: Golden

You may have to keep your options open on the

academic front. Family front brightens with the arrival
of someone close. Likelihood of some celebration
taking place at home cannot be ruled out. You will
remain satisfied with whatever you have achieved at
work. Your charm is likely to win this phase for you on
the romantic front. It is a good time to meet someone
you had been putting off for sometime. Excellent
prospects are indicated regarding property.
Lucky No.: 3 / Lucky Colour: Mustard

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

You may have to be accommodative enough for

someone who may come to stay with you. If you are
in love, this is the best time to take your romance
to the next level. Positive thinking will help you in
creating a tension-free atmosphere at home. An
invitation will allow you to explore a new location.
Those on a fun trip are bound to enjoy themselves.
You may be in the mood for shirking work towards
end of this week.
Lucky No.: 7 / Lucky Colour: Rosy brown

This is the right time to project your problem, as

chances of its getting redressed look bright. You
are likely to take all the right decisions at work.
Someone is likely to do you a good turn on the
professional front. Success of the one close to
you is likely to warm your heart. Some of you are
likely to enjoy a social gathering. You may get an
opportunity to reside nearer to your place of work.
Lucky No.: 17 / Lucky Colour: White

Someone may outwit and corner you on the social

front. The one you dont like may impress you and
the one you do like may begin to fall from your
grace. An attitudinal change is warranted, which will
help you in resetting your personal equations with
others. Your expertise is likely to be used at work this
week. Professionals are likely to earn much as their
reputation grows. Some misunderstanding on the
domestic front may upset you.
Lucky No.: 11 / Lucky Colour: Orange

You can come into someones good books for a

change on the professional front. Keeping a low
profile on both social and professional fronts will do
you good. Kind words of someone indifferent to you
previously are likely to act as a soothing balm. Your
ideas will work on the academic front and speed up
the progress. Those in film line will find many takers
for their product. Some social event may have you
totally engrossed.
Lucky No.: 11 / Lucky Colour: Violet

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

You will need to restrain yourself from doing something

that in not in the interest of all. Thinking bad about
someone can have negative fallout on you too. A
workplace rival may not let you have your own way on
the professional front. A miscalculation threatens to
cost you your reputation, so be thorough in checking
everything before submitting. Someone may try to
exploit your gullibility on the social front. Suspicious
nature of spouse may create misunderstandings.
Lucky No.: 5 / Lucky Colour: Green

Whatever you are trying to achieve in personal or

professional spheres, give it your best shot. You
may find much excitement on the family front due
to a celebration or function. Your romantic nature
will get lover or spouse in a better mood than what
it is at present. Your efforts to speed up things
at work may meet with resistance, but ultimately
you will be able to get your way. A tight financial
situation is set to ease.
Lucky No.: 1 / Lucky Colour: Lemon

You may get ignored on the social front and feel

depressed about it. Much is achieved by those
who take fitness seriously. An investment that
seems tempting needs to be touched with caution.
Dont support someone at work who you think is
undeserving, as this can reflect upon your own
reputation. An important family issue will require
inputs from everyone involved. Those in a steady
relationship may give a thought to cementing their
relationship permanently.
Lucky No.: 22 / Colour: Lavender

You may need to be more cautious in dealing with

finances to avoid getting duped. Starting a new
venture on the business front is indicated but it may
take time to become profitable. Professionally, you
may have to struggle to make a mark in whatever
you are currently involved in. Attracting attention on
the social front may show you in a bad light. You are
likely to attract a bevy of admirers on the romantic
front.
Lucky No.: 9 / Lucky Colour: Red

(March 21-April 20)

(July 23-August 23)

(Nov 23-December 11)

(April 21-May 20)

(August 24-Sep 23)

(Dec 22-January 21)

(June 22-July 20)

(May 21-June 21)

(Sep 24-October 23)

(Jan 22-February 19)

(Oct 24-November 22)

(Feb 20-March 20)

We are
giving our
website a
new look
Stay tuned!
www.indianweekender.co.nz
www.iwk.co.nz
www.halloffame.co.nz
www.facebook.com/indianweekender
www.twitter.com/indianweekender

26

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Continued from 5
N
W I I DI A
N

KI

Kiwi Indian
Young
Achiever

he Kiwi Indian Young Achiever award

was instituted to the honour young
Kiwi-Indians who have shone through their
talents and hard work and have become
names to reckon with. Nominations were
invited from young people between the
ages of 16 to 35 years.
This young achiever could have
demonstrated their genius in any field
be it academics, sports, art, culture,
community service or any other area.

Dr Malvindar Singh-Bains,
Kiwi Indian Young Achiever
of the Year
A neuroscientist based at the
University of Auckland Centre for Brain
Research, Dr Malvindar Singh-Bains is
most well known for her work in promoting
brain
health
and
awareness
of
neurodegenerative diseases.
In 2010, Dr Malvindar was awarded
the University of Auckland Doctoral
Scholarship to complete her PhD,
specifically focusing on Huntingtons
disease. She presented her research at the
World Congress of Huntingtons Disease
held in Rio de Janeiro in 2013 and at the
Hereditary Disease Foundation Conference
in Boston, Massachusetts in 2014 where
she was one of the youngest speakers.
Her research was also accepted into
Annals of Neurologyone of the top five
clinical neurology journals in the worlda
major accomplishment for a young

researcher.
Dr
Malvindar
founded and is
the co-chair of, the Huntingtons Disease
Youth Organisation of New Zealand, a
charity devoted to supporting, educating
and advocating New Zealand youth affected
by Huntingtons disease.
Dr Malvindar is driven by the fact that
despite the world being aware of the
disease, there is still no cure. She has
played a crucial role in encouraging youth
to recognise the importance of looking
after your brain. For her continued efforts

Anti clockwise from above: Dr Malvindar Singh-Bains with her brother Karamjit Singh-Bains
and colleague Dr Nasim Mehrabi; Dr Malvindar at her PhD graduation; (from left to right)
Prerna Sinha, Dr Malvindar, HE Sanjiv Kohli and Bhav Dhillon
Inset: Dr Malvindar in her lab

and dedication to increasing the awareness

among youth, Indian Weekender presented
her with the Kiwi Indian Young Achiever
award for the Year.

There were several other people who

we would like to acknowledge for the
event and we will introduce them in
our
forthcoming issues.

For more glimpses from

the Kiwi Indian Hall of
Fame, turn to page 28

27

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Im delighted to congratulate Indian Weekender on seven successful years of publishing and

for doing a fabulous job with the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame awards and gala event for the past
four years running.
For seven years now, Indian Weekender has offered readers a good selection of national
and international news, honoured the achievements of Indian New Zealanders and kept us
entertained. I have particularly appreciated the team at Indian Weekender for including the
voices of those who are affected but often overlooked, when covering issues involving them.
The Weekenders coverage of international students is one such example.
Through publications like Indian Weekender, the Indian community is well supported to
celebrate what makes us unique as Indian New Zealanders and to keep ourselves informed
of the issues so that we can contribute effectively to New Zealands progress.
It has been an honour and a pleasure to contribute articles in various issues of Indian
Weekender over the past year. Thank you for the opportunity and I look forward to many
more such opportunities to work together. All the very best to the team at Indian Weekender
for many more successful years!
Priyanca Radhakrishnan
Former Labour List Candidate 2014
Labour Policy Council elected member

A very warm congratulations to the Indian Weekender for reaching its seventh year of
publication, and for four years of the very successful Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame.
Our democracy relies upon a strong, vibrant media scene, and publications like the Indian
Weekender which reach New Zealands diverse communities are a very important part of
ensuring that people are informed and engaged.
I was particularly impressed to see the introduction of two new categories to the Hall of
Fame Awards last year. The Kiwi Indian Young Achiever award and the Kiwi Indian Unsung
Hero award are a great way of encouraging our young people, and recognising people who
work hard to make our communities a better place.
Mt Roskill is a major hub for Aucklands Indian community and I want to express my
appreciation for the role of the Indian Weekender in connecting with the people who live here
and across our city.
Michael Wood
Labour Candidate for Mt Roskill

My sincere congratulations to this years award winners: Dr C S

Benjamin for being inducted into the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame,
Unsung Hero Ramesh Patel, and Young Achiever Dr Malvindar
Singh-Bains.
The winners are shining examples of the many diverse contributions of Kiwi-Indians to our country, and they demonstrate the
leadership, ingenuity, and commitment to the countrys well
being that we have long admired in Kiwi-Indians.
James Shaw MP,
Co-leader Green Party

Congratulations as well to the Indian Weekenders seven years

of service to your community.

Im also pleased to join my fellow Green MPs in celebrating the

Indian communitys 125 years of settlement in New Zealand.
Our country has changed a great deal in the past century but
one that has remained consistent is the tenacity and vibrancy
of Kiwi-Indians who have settled here and who now call New
Zealand home.

28

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Having a party? We would

like to hear from you.
Reach us at
editor@indianweekender.co.nz
and get featured on this page.

Highlights
from the Kiwi
Indian Hall of
Fame 2016 held at
Pullman Hotel on
June 23

29

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

Dont want to do
many films at a time,
says Kareena

ctress Kareena Kapoor Khan, who

is preparing for her upcoming
film Veere Di Wedding, says she
is not keen to do many films at a time.
When asked what she was working on
apart from working on Rhea Kapoor and
Ekta Kapoors co-production Veere Di
WeddingIndias first real chick flick
she replied, Right now, just Veere Di
Wedding. I do not want to do five films at
a time. I took so much time to say yes to
Rhea (Kapoor).
I feel its not about doing five films,
its about one film, which I enjoy doing. I
enjoyed Ki & Ka and Bajrangi Bhaijaan.
I loved doing Udta Punjab, even though it
was a small role and now I am sure I am
going to enjoy this.
Kareena will be sharing screen space
with Rheas sister Sonam Kapoor, Swara
Bhaskar and Shikha Talsania in the
upcoming film.

Its false news:

Jacqueline Fernandez
on Don 3 role

ctress Jacqueline Fernandez has

denied rumours that she has
been roped in to play a key role in

Don 3.
When asked about the buzz around
her participation in the film, Jacqueline
replied, I just came back to Mumbai last

night and this news has been

doing rounds.
I dont know where it is coming
from because I have not spoken to
anyone remotely close to Don team. Its
false news.
There were reports that Jacqueline
Fernandez will step into Priyanka Chopras
shoes for Don 3.
Asked if she would like to share screen
space with Shah Rukh Khan, the Sri
Lankan beauty said, As actors, we want to
work with as many actors and directors as
we can. For me, it would be interesting to
work with Shah Rukh and I would love to
work with him.
Meanwhile, the actress who was seen
launching the first Aeropostale brand in
Mumbai on Saturday, June 25, said she is
not brand conscious.
Talking of her fashion quotient, she said,
You just need to give me something that
fits well and makes me feel comfortable. I
am a very easy shopper. I am not a chaotic
or crazy shopper. I know what I want and I
am not brand conscious.

Raghav
2.0
as
many times
as it was screened, even more than me.
That is how nuts she is, he added.
Raman Raghav 2.0 also stars
Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Vicky Kaushal
in lead roles.
The film is loosely inspired by notorious
psychopath Raman Raghav who embarked
on a murderous killing spree in Mumbai
during the mid-1960s.

Hopefully Hollywood
will be my next
destination: Alia Bhatt

tarting her journey in showbiz

in 2012, Alia Bhatt has come
a long way with hit films such
as Highway, 2 States and her recent
release Udta Punjab. The actress says
she wants to work around the globe and

Sobhita was perfect

for Raman Raghav
2.0: Anurag Kashyap

ilm-maker
Anurag
Kashyap
says he was so impressed with
debutante Sobhita Dhulipala that
he didnt feel like testing her again for
Raman Raghav 2.0.
Sobhita won the Miss Earth title in 2013
and also featured on the popular Kingfisher
calendar in 2014.
When I saw her audition, I had no idea
who she was, not even her name. She was
so perfect for the character, I didnt feel the
need to test her again, Kashyap said.
He also said that he was surprised how
a beauty pageant winner such as Sobhita
didnt care about the way she looked.
In the process of shooting the film, the
more I discovered her, she wasnt like any
of the models or Miss India winners I have
ever met.
It was a big surprise to see a Miss
India who did not care about how she
looked but did care whether she was
getting the character and emotions right,
Kashyap said.
In the days we shot the film, she drowned
herself in character so much that she
became Simmy (Sobhitas character in the
movie). She saw every single cut of Raman

The star later got nostalgic and reminisced

about his school days when he used to do
boxing. ... So we move indoors for the work

hopes Hollywood turns out to be her

next destination. Indian actors have made
their mark in foreign filmdom and Alia also
hopes to follow suit.
I want to do films all over. Well, London
is my next destination because I am going
there for a holiday but then hopefully,
Hollywood will be my next destination
soon, Alia said.
Alia is riding high on success of her film
Udta Punjab where she is seen essaying
character of a Bihari immigrant stuck in
the nexus of drugs in Punjab.
The daughter of veteran film-maker
Mahesh Bhatt has a packed schedule. Udta
Punjab marks her second release this year
after Kapoor & Sons.
She has films such as Shhuddhi,
Badrinath Ki Dulhania and director Gauri
Shindes untitled film lined up as well.
Udta Punjab, which also stars Shahid
Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Diljit
Dosanjh, is based on drug abuse in Punjab.
It came out on June 17.

Big B shoots with

real life boxers

egastar Amitabh Bachchan put

on his boxing gloves and shot
with real-life national-level
boxers for an upcoming project.
In the wee hours of Sunday, June 26,
the 73-year-old shared on his blog some
photographs of himself accompanied by
the boxers in the boxing ring.
Those artists that were in the shot were
all national-level boxers. Such a joy to meet
and feel their enthusiasm, Amitabh wrote.

on shoot and among set ups that take me

back to school and PT days, when boxing
was compulsory, or it was made out that
way. If you fought in the ring you gained
a point for your house. And eventually
added up to the winning of the cock house
at the end of term; a most prestigious
reward, he shared.
In Sherwood, I lost in the boxing
tournaments. But I won a cup for being
the pluckiest loser. A plucky loser was an
acknowledgment for putting up a fight
which I almost won, despite the fact that
I was up against one that was stronger.
My height would go against me in the
countdowns for which category I belonged.
So even though my weight was for a
lower category, my height used to put me
in a higher weight and better and stronger
opponents. They warned me to withdraw,
for they feared physical damage to me.
But my PT instructor disagreed and I
fought, he added.
On the work front, Amitabh will next be
seen in Pink.

Hrithik is a dream
actor for any director:
Sanjay

anjay Gupta is in awe of his Kaabil

lead Hrithik Roshans constant
quest
for
perfection.
The
filmmaker feels working with the actor
comes as a blessing for any director.
It was during a live Twitter chat session
when Gupta praised Hrithik.
He is a dream actor for any director,
he posted. Kaabil, which also stars Yami
Gautam, will see Hrithik once again in
an action avatar after Bang Bang! For
this, Gupta has joined hands with action
director Peter Hein, who has worked on
many south Indian films such as Sivaji,
Anniyan and Ghajini.
The film, produced by Rakesh Roshan
under his banner FilmKraft Productions, is
set to release on January 26 next year.
Gupta also shared an update of the movie,
saying that the shooting will resume in July
and they hope to wrap it up by October.
Answering a query about Hrithiks
best
quality,
Gupta
said,
His
quest for perfection.
He also feels the Krrish stars
USP is his dedication.

30

1 July 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

IIFA 2016 leaves Madrid with Bollywood

high
Nivedita

rom Salman Khan, Priyanka

Chopra,
Deepika
Padukone
to Hrithik Roshan, the IIFA
2016 gala, which concluded in Madrid,
Spain on June 26, seemed like a big
budget multi-starrer Bollywood film,
with the colours, magic and drama that
the countrys movie industry exudes.
The 17th edition of the big fat Bollywood
affair, organised by the International
Indian Film Academy (IIFA), saw
mesmerising performances by Hrithik,
Priyanka, Deepika and Salman to business
forums held to strengthen bonds between
India and Spain. The two countries are
celebrating 60 years of diplomatic ties.
The four-day gala, which started on
June 23, saw the presence of several film
celebrities and scores of their fans.
The opening day witnessed the official
unveiling of Mirzya, which marks the debut
of Anil Kapoors son Harshvardhan. Here,
Shilpa Shetty took to the stage and gave
Madrid a dekko at her famous thumkas.
Joining them on stage were stars such
as Salman, Priyanka, Farhan Akhtar,
Shahid Kapoor, Sonakshi Sinha and
Deepika who expressed their excitement
at being in Madrid to celebrate the power
of Bollywood.
Every year, IIFA organisers explore
an international destination for the
extravaganza with the aim of popularising
the Hindi film industry, and other Indian
things. For instance, fitness freak Shilpa
hosted a mass yoga masterclass, involving
several people to know more about the
ancient art form and its benefits.
The IIFA gala was timed right to integrate
with the citys Mulafesta Movement of

Urban Life and Arts event and exhibition

which is Madrids annual culture fest that
brings together music, art and food all in
one place. Adding an Indian musical touch
to the Mulafest were Raghu Dixit Project,
Midival Pundits, Karsh Kale and Nucleya,
who got the party grooving.
There was more music, too. The IIFA
Rocks saw a mlange of dancers and
musicians from India, as well as from
Spain. They gave the audience a desi treat
with the joy and high-on-energy flamenco.
The IIFA Rocks also saw the awards
distribution in technical category, and
Sanjay Leela Bhansalis historical love
saga Bajirao Mastani kept its golden
run going with maximum awards.
After the teasers, the main awards were
held on Sunday night.
People not only gathered in huge
numbers to see their favourite Bollywood
stars, but some of them also chose to wear
Indian outfits for the gala night.
The venue was jam-packed and the fact

that people
w e r e
hooting
for
the
show
to
b e g i n
was
a
testimony
to
the
excitement it
generated. Of
course, the show
began
Bollywood
styletwo
hours
later
than scheduled.
But for the fans, the final action
was all worth it.
Priyanka, Tiger Shroff and Sonakshi
Sinha were among the star performers who
lit up the stage with their talent. Even Shahid
and Farhan were at their wittiest when
they made an entry on donkeys, and later
poked fun at the censor board in India. The
big winners of the night were Bollywoods

Verdict: Raman Raghav 2.0

U. Prashanth Nayak

or Raman Raghav 2.0, master

director Anurag Kashyap has
had to buckle down, tighten the
shoestrings of his budget, and attempt a
kickback to what made his films tick. The
box office disaster of his last years Bombay
Velvet produced for more than Rs.100
crore not only ruined his professional
upswing but also scuttled his plans to move
to France. Raman Raghav 2.0 was made
with Rs 3.5 crore, as if Kashyap is daring
the very margins of mathematics itself to
challenge him with a loss this time. The
production cost, or paucity thereof, shows
up clearly onscreen but the overall result,
sadly, does not.
The script is inspired by a real-life serial
killer Raman Raghav who bludgeoned
41 people to death in the Mumbai of
the 1960s.
In this adapted present-day story
set amidst Mumbais shanty towns, a
wise-cracking, articulate man (essayed by
Nawazuddin Siddiqui) who looks to be in
his late 30s to early 40s, starts wreaking
his psychopathic streak of violently bloody
homicides. The police dont take him
seriously and he uses this negligence to
further his rampage. Rather unaccountably,
he soon takes a fancy to, and begins to spy
on Raghavana young cocaine-snorting
police inspector (played by Vicky Kaushal)

who appears nominally competent but

looks more likely to get himself killed
rather than apprehend criminals.
It is useful to see how this picture falls
short by comparing it to the same directors
film Uglya film of partially similar
zeitgeist that also features pervasive
criminality and a plethora of flawed human
beings. Ugly throbbed with scene after

scene of hypnotic intensity, further

enhanced by a variety of powerful
performances. RR2.0 shows promise
in the first half but then suffers due to
a shortage of memorably constructed
scenes. The criminal here is interesting
but not spellbinding, while the
policeman is a one-dimensional
example of the walking dead. Jay Ozas
visuals are suitably grungy but do not
match up to the starkly impressive
canvases composed by Andritsakis.
Ram Sampaths atypical background
score is judiciously jazzy but not in
the same league as McOmbers eerily
minimalist score for the former film.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui is undoubtedly
competent as the deranged killer
Ramanna but for all his witty remarks
and calmly insane expositions, he
comes across a garden-variety madman.
Siddiquis vaulting talent, this time,
regrettably doesnt make him embody a
truly spine-chilling killer.
Vicky Kaushal, as the coked-out cop,
admirably executes Kashyaps instructions
to lose weight and drink minimal water
so as to look dehydrated. Unfortunately,
it appears he got too dehydrated to act
effectively and his wooden performance
significantly short-changes the movie.
The films assets are only a few.
Ramannas last meeting with his sister

rumoured couple Deepika

Padukone and Ranveer Singh,
who won the Best Actors for Piku
and Bajirao Mastani respectively.
Bajirao Mastani turned out to be the
big winner as it also won the Best Director
trophy for Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and had
bagged nine technical awards.
Beyond the awards ceremony, the
IIFA Stomp, an electronic music fest,
where popular disc jockeys present,
Bollywood music with electro twists,
regaled the audience in Madrid.
And one hopes the Bollywood fever
continues for sometime in Europes
football capital.

is the kind of weirdly orgiastic sequence

that the director excels in. That protracted
scene starts off with familial strife and then
explodes into something else. The sister
(Amruta Subhash) looks so much like a
character from real-life unlike Mumbai
filmdoms usually hackneyed casting.
Kashyap returns with all his favourite
totemsfractured couples, father-son
discord, substance abuse, etc. There
are unnecessary nods to other films.
Ramannas iron pipe, which he drags
along, recalls the cattle gun in No Country
for Old Men, the emblazoned Chapter One,
Two and so forth allude to Tarantinos
style, and even the name Raghav recalls
the same name and somewhat similar
themes in Aks. But sustained emotional
intensity, overall flamboyance and constant
momentum, which powered his best films,
are in short supply here. His sure does put
an interesting spin at the end but films
are a lot more about the process than just
the destination.
The good folks in Cannes, however, have
chosen to continue the faith they showed in
his previous superior films, and included
RR2.0 in their Directors Fortnight.
If his next film proves to be even more
unfocused, then who knows, they might
actually give him the Palme dOr.
Rating: 2.5 stars out of 5
Director: Anurag Kashyap

31

www.iwk.co.nz | 1 July 2016

The young app-rentice

He is part of a generation that has been raised with smartphones and multi-touch platforms. At the age of 12, Kerman Kohli developed his first
app, but it was his most recent development of The Homework App that put him on the global tech map. The young entrepreneurs creation
was featured as one of the top six apps in a list of back-to-school tools in the US. Earlier this month, he won a prestigious scholarship with
Apple and left for the US to attend the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in San Francisco. Indian Weekender spoke to Kohli to
find out more about his app and his experience at one of the most-anticipated events in the tech community.
Esha Chanda
IWK: How was your experience
at WWDC?
Kerman: The experience of winning one
of the 350 WWDC scholarship tickets
worldwide felt like winning a golden ticket
to the Wonka factory, to be honest! The
warm California weather combined with
the atmosphere of the conference was
surreal, to say the least.
During the scholarship introduction day,
Tim Cook came to visit us and personally
signed our badges.
Over the next few days, I met multiple
Apple engineers, designers and people in
the tech industry. I also visited the Google,
PlayStation and Visa office, which were
super fun to tour.

Kerman Kohli

Kerman: I developed my first app, Text

Enlarger, when I was 12. A simple utility
app, it enlarged text to the biggest possible
size on a users phonea mobile
billboard of sorts.
While the app only
received a few thousand
downloads, it was an
exciting project to
work on and fuelled
my
passion
for
developing
more
apps in the future.

IWK: What was the idea behind

developing the Homework App?
Kerman: The Homework App was born
out of the necessity of requiring homework
planner app. Existing apps werent to the
standard I expected an app to be, so I
decided to make my own.
IWK: What features set The
Homework App apart from other
homework planners available?
Kerman: Some of the key areas that
make my app stand apart from the
rest are ease-of-use, interface design
and playfulness.
IWK: The app is currently only
available for Apple users. Do you

CAB workshop

Date: Saturday, July 2

Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Venue: Howick Local Board Meeting
Room, Pakuranaga Library Building
Complex, 7 Aylesbury Street, Manukau
2010
CAB Pakuranga-Eastern Manukau will
hold two free information sessions for
newcomers on employment. Learn about
CV writing, importance of cover letter,
interview techniques, marketing oneself
effectively and boosting self-confidence.
For more information, send an e-mail at
settlement.pakuranga@cab.org.nz or call
021459520.

Session on employment
Date: Saturday, July 2
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Venue: Howick Local Board Meeting

The experience of
winning one of the 350
WWDC scholarship
tickets worldwide felt like
winning a golden ticket
to the Wonka factory,
to be honest!

IWK: Are there any

more apps in the
pipeline?
Kerman Kohli outside WWDC in San Franciso

plan to extend its reach by making it

available on other platforms?
Kerman: Yes, I am making the Homework
app for Android platform, which will be
available by August this year.
IWK: What was your biggest challenge
while developing the app and how you
overcame them??

Room, Pakuranga Library Building

complex, 7 Aylesbury Street, Manukau
2010
CAB Pakuranga-Eastern Manukau
will hold a free information sessions
for newcomers on employment where
participants can learn about CV writing,
the importance of a cover letter, interview
techniques and boosting self-confidence.
Drop an e-mail to CAB Pakuranga at
settlement.pakuranga@cab.org.nz or call
Vani at 021459520 for more details.

Kerman: I dont think

there was a single challenge,
rather multiple challenges while
developing the app. While they may be
engineering, business or design related
challenges, the solution has always been the
sameperseverance and determination.
IWK: Tell us a little about the other
apps that youve created.

expressions, Kiwi communication in

formal and informal situations including
the workplace. Attendees will leave
the interactive workshop feeling more
confident about interacting with their
Kiwi colleagues, employees and friends.
For more information or to register,
contact ARMS on 09 524 2440 or e-mail
reception@arms-mrc.org.nz

Kiwi culture and

communication
workshop for migrants
Matariki Festival 2016
Date: Saturday, July 2
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Venue: Point Chevalier Community
Centre
Cost: $20
The understanding Kiwi culture and
communication is a new interactive
workshop where participants, using
interactive activities, will explore the
appropriate use of Kiwi and Mori

Date: June 18 to July 17

Time: 6 a.m.to 10:00 p.m.
Venue: Region wide
The rising of the Matariki star cluster
heralds in Mori New Year and a monthlong celebration with more than 100
events across the Auckland region,
including concerts, theatre, exhibitions,
kapa haka, kite flying and much more.
Visit matarikifestival.org.nz for details.
Matariki Festival 2016 has more than 100
events across the Auckland region.

Kerman:
Not
sure,
although I always keep a look
out for any.

The Homework App is available

for iOS users on the Apple Store
for free and for $4.99 with
upgraded features

Tartan Day Tattoo

Celebrations

Date: Sunday, July 3

Time: 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Venue: North Shore Events Centre,
Silverfield & Argus Place Entraces,
Wairau Valley, Auckland
A celebration of all things Scottish! Pipes
and drums from various Auckland bands,
drum corps, Auckland Police Pipe Band
plus lots more and a special appearance
of the New Zealand Highland dance
company with their partner pipe band
giving a special performance for the
tattoo before the group leave for their tour
of France. Admission is free and open
to all.

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