28 JULY2017 | Vol 9 Issue 18 ALL THE ISSUES.

ALL THE DEBATES.

THAT WILL SHAPE
YOUR VERDICT.

PRESENTING

Deputy PM TULJAI PARKER KANGANA

PAULA BENNETT in top 20 for RANAUT
at New Lynn Miss Universe Saif's nepotism
Gurudwara NZ 2017 letter disturbing
Pg 5 Pg 30 Pg 28
www.iwk.nz /indianweekender /indianweekender Turn to Page 8

LOSS OF ITS
BELOVED LEADER
AND 'MAN OF GOD'
Wenceslaus
Anthony

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 2 NEW ZEALAND
Community loses a pious man:
Wenceslaus Anthony passes away in India
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
R
espected Kiwi-Indian businessman
and Papal Medal receiver Wenceslaus
Anthony passed away on Sunday, July
23 at Apollo Hospital in Chennai,
Mr Anthony had been on a business and
holiday trip away from New Zealand for the
last eight weeks and had just returned from
Israel and Egypt before falling ill.
He was admitted to the Apollo Hospital on
Friday, July 21, where he underwent a series
of tests. It all started with a kidney failure but
ended up in multiple organ failure which led to
his untimely demise.
On his trip with his family, Mr Anthony
visited several cities in North and South India;
he met the then President of India, Shri Pranab
Mukherjee in New Delhi and Prime Minister
of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. He also
attended his nephews wedding in Kerala
earlier last week. Wenceslaus Anthony
Mr Anthony was a former co-chairman of the
India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC)
and had accompanied former Prime Minister Sir Mr Anthony was an
John Key twice on his official visits to India. He ardent community worker
was an integral part of the business delegation
to India that fostered establishing stronger trade and the chairman of the
relationships between the two nations. Mother Teresa Interfaith
Wenceslaus Anthony came to New Zealand Committee.
in 1999, and with his perseverance and hard
work, he started an import-export business
that became the turning point of his life. His
hard work and honesty rewarded him with a
good name in the local and national business
community.
Bank of Baroda (New Zealand Limited)s
Board of Directors, Management and staff
lovingly remember our Chairman
and offer our sincere condolences to the family...
Wenceslaus Anthony
Chairman, Bank of Baroda NZ Limited
726 Great South Road 114 Dominion Road
PO Box 97726, Manukau PO Box 56580, Mt Eden, Auckland
Ph: 09 261 0018 Fax: 09 261 0019 Ph: 09 632 1020 Fax: 09 632 5082
Email: manunz@bankofbaroda.com Email: aucknz@bankofbaroda.com
Friday, July 28, 2017
with his family and friends."
Mr Anthony was an ardent community
worker and the chairman of the Mother Teresa
Interfaith Committee. He established the
Mother Teresa Interfaith Committee in 2010,
on the 100th birth anniversary of Saint Teresa
which led it to become an annual event in the
communitys calendar.
Mr Anthony received Member of the New
Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) by Queen
Elizabeth II in December 2013 for his services
to New Zealand-India relations.
In May 2017, he was conferred the Papal
Medal, Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice (Decoration
of Honour of the Roman Catholic Church)
awarded by Pope Francis.
55 Featherston Street
PO Box 5813, Wellington
Ph: 04 447 1097 Fax: 04 499 4343
Email: wellnz@bankofbaroda.com
The Indian Weekender
Dame Lyndsey Freer, a spokesperson of the
Bishop of Auckland Catholic Diocese, pinned
the medal on Mr Anthony in the presence
of a large gathering at St Marys Church
in Auckland. Vicar General Bernard Kiely
presented the framed citation.
Mr Anthony is survived by his wife Susan,
son Akash and daughter Sneha who were with
him in his last moments along with his relatives.
High Commissioner of India in New Zealand,
His Excellency Sanjiv Kohli, has expressed
his condolences.
It is a great loss for the family and the
community. I and the High Commission have
lost a dear friend and a solid support. May God
grant strength to the family and peace to the
departed soul, Mr Kohli said.
Prime Minister Bill English also conveyed
his condolences as he said, "My thoughts are
His associates and friends in Auckland are
distraught and praying for his family. Early in
the week, many political leaders from all sides
of the political spectrum asked about his well-
being from The Indian Weekenders publisher
who was a very close friend of Wency as he
was affectionately called.
His funeral was conducted on Wednesday, July
26 in Chennai. A commemoration service will
be conducted in Auckland towards the end of
August, details of which will be published later.
The Indian Weekender family
extends its heartiest condolences to Mr
Anthonys family.
 The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28 2017 NEW ZEALAND 3

Industry pushback compels government

to back down on immigration
SANDEEP SINGH away from Auckland who feared that Auckland the visa holders will be required to leave the

T
he Government has finally backed down
from the initially proposed changes in
the immigration policy as proposed
earlier this year in April, relaxing remuneration
bands separating low and mid-skilled workers
after consultation with businesses.
According to the latest announcement made
on Thursday, July 27, Immigration Minister
Michael Woodhouse has confirmed changes to
temporary work visa conditions.
The remuneration band for mid-skilled
workers seeking temporary visa (Essential
Skill Work Visa) will be 85 per cent of the New
Zealand median income, which is currently
$41,538 a year, instead of $48,859 as earlier
proposed during the consultation.
The Government is committed to striking the
right balance between ensuring New Zealanders
are at the front of the queue for jobs and making
sure our regions have access to temporary
migrant labour necessary for sustained economic
growth, Mr Woodhouse said.
We are also committed to ensuring that
lower-skilled migrants are clear about their
future prospects in New Zealand, which is
why we consulted on a number of changes
to temporary work visa conditions, Mr
Woodhouse said.
The changes consulted on included
introducing remuneration bands to help
determine skill levels; a maximum duration
of three years for lower-skilled visa holders,
after which a minimum stand down period will
apply before they are eligible for another lower-
Michael Woodhouse
The changes consulted
on included introducing
remuneration bands to help
determine skill levels; a
maximum duration of three years
for lower-skilled visa holders,
after which a minimum stand
and requirements for partners
and children of lower-skilled visa
holders to meet visa conditions
in their own right
skilled visa; and requirements for partners and
children of lower-skilled visa holders to meet
visa conditions in their own right.
There has been much pushback from the
industry, especially those from the regions far
issues were dominating policy affecting their
ability to hire skilled work force to keep their
businesses going.
There were 170 submissions made to the
government after the government has released
the first draft of changes in immigration policy
for wider public consultation.
The Indian Weekender has been speaking
with many such industry associations and their
representatives on concerns around drastic
reduction in the number of migrant workers.
Katie Milne, National President of Federated
Farmers of New Zealand, expressed concern
about the gap in our workforce that migrant
workers fill.
It is a huge issue that farmers have to face.
NZ Incs productivity will be affected if there are
not enough people available in the labour pool.
The seasons stop for no man, and when
harvest comes, or cows start to calve, there need
to be people available to do the work required.
Obviously, they need to be skilled as well or be
able to get trained here for our conditions to fill
those vacancies if Kiwis dont want to change
vocations and take up the work. It is as simple
as that. Ms Milne said.
Similarly, Simon Wallace, Chief Executive
Officer, New Zealand Aged Care Association,
which has made an active submission to
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) in May outlining
their industrys concerns against the governments
proposed changes in immigration policy.
The Government is proposing to introduce
measures that will limit the time for these
temporary work visas to only three years when
country. This will compromise the business
continuity and have an impact on the quality of
care for our elderly residents.
The sector has estimated that we will need
extra 1,000 caregivers each year between now
and 2026 to cater for an ageing population and
in our case an increase in rest home residents
from 38,000 to 52,000. While our rest homes
do everything they can to employ local New
Zealanders, we cannot meet all our labour
needs from Kiwis alone. We have to employ
migrants, Mr Wallace said.
According to ANZs Business Micro Scope
survey released on Wednesday, July 26, about
23 per cent of small businesses had rated
shortage of skilled employees as their biggest
problem holding them back in an otherwise
good looking last quarter.
However, not everyone was equally
appeased with the newly introduced relaxation
in immigration policy. Federated Farmers
were quick to register their disapproval of
these relaxations.
The changes restrict the vast majority of
migrant dairy farm workers to a maximum of
three consecutive one-year visas (maximum
three years) before an enforced stand-down
where they must leave NZ for 12 months.
Given the depth of labour shortages in rural
areas this will only force out migrants who
have been invested in, trained and integrated
into the farm and community, to be replaced by
another migrant who is new to New Zealand,
Federated Farmers immigration spokesperson
Chris Lewis said.

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 4 NEW ZEALAND Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

'Shortage of skilled labour Saree lovers meet

holding back small businesses'
IWK BUREAU activity outlook, hiring, investment and profit in Wellington
A
expectations improved to +22, its highest
bout 23 per cent of small businesses
since Q1 2015.
rate shortage of skilled employees as
The most positive outlook was from
their biggest problem holding them
intermediate businesses (6 to 20 staff) which
back in an otherwise good looking last quarter
edged up from +27 to +29, while micro
where growth expectations have hit a two-year
businesses (up to five staff) held at +15.
high.
As we approach the middle of the year,
It is important to note that some 97 per
small businesses are increasingly upbeat
cent of enterprises in New Zealand are small
about investment, employment and profit
businesses and include enterprises those with
expectations, said Antonia Watson, ANZs
no employees, micro (1-5 employees), and
Managing Director Retail and Business
small (6-19 employees) enterprises.
Banking.
According to ANZs Business Micro Scope
Theyre confident in the New Zealand
survey, June 2017, after a slow start to the year,
business environment over the next 12 months,
the confidence among small businesses have
and their own growth prospects during that
rebounded in the June quarter, and their activity
time.
expectations are the highest in two years.
Profit expectations are particularly strong
The ANZ Business Micro Scope is a quarterly
with a net 28 per cent of small firms expecting
indicator which focuses on the prospects of IWK BUREAU
higher profits on the horizon the highest for

A
small businesses across New Zealand. The
the past three years and a sentiment shared by womens group in Wellington recently different
survey was launched in March 2012 to address
businesses across a broad range of sectors, Ms got together to share their love for Indias ways of
a lack of ongoing research specific to the small
Watson said. favourite ethnic attiresaree. More draping.
business sector
However, the quarterly survey again than 50 women draped in an array of beautiful
According to the survey, a net 17 per cent But due to their
highlighted a significant problem holding back sarees gathered to celebrate the beauty of sarees.
of small firms are confident about business geographical location and call
small business was a shortage of skilled labour. The meet was a humble attempt to revive
conditions over the year ahead, up from 14 per of the day, women living outside of the sub-
A net 23 per cent of small businesses reported
cent in the March quarter. The rise in confidence the charm of sarees by encouraging continent hardly get any chance to wear sarees
a lack of skilled employees as their biggest
is mirrored in other key indicators for small women to dress up in sarees and display these days.
problem, followed closely by regulation on 22
business sentiment and activity tracked by the the various types and traditional sarees of Apart from saree oriented fun games and
per cent.
survey. India, the work of the artisans and spend a
According to MBIEs small business sector yummy food, all the participants also narrated
The ANZ composite measure a key nice evening networking with each other.
report 2014, small businesses employ about 30 their saree story or the story about the saree
proxy for growth based on a firms own Saree is considered one of the oldest forms of
per cent of the total work force. they were wearing on the evening.
clothing in the world and is traditionally worn The meet was held under by a Facebook
by the women in the Indian sub-continent. It is based group from Wellington Saree Shayari,
an unstitched piece of fabric, measuring from which aims to promote weaving and draping
about 4.5 metres to 8 metres and is rectangular. and has over 10 thousand saree enthusiasts
Different regions of the sub-continent have from across the world. This was the first meet
their own specialty sarees, different weaves, of the group in New Zealand.
different textiles and textures, varieties of silks and

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 The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28 2017 NEW ZEALAND 5

New Lynn Gurudwara celebrates

eight years of seva
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

G
urudwara Sri Guru Harkrishan Sahib,
Auckland, New Zealand celebrated its
eighthyear of establishment on Sunday,
July 23.
National List MP Kanwaljit Bakshi and High
Commissioner of India in New Zealand Sanjiv
Kohli welcomed Deputy Prime Minister Hon.
Paula Bennett, who was invited as the chief
guest at the event.
Amongst others present at the event was
MP for Te Atatu Phil Twyford, list MP for Mt
Roskill Dr Parmjeet Parmar, National Partys
candidate for Kelston Bala Beeram, Labour
Partys candidate for Papakura Jesse Pabla,
Mandeep Kaur along with other officers
representing New Zealand Police.
Ms Bennett along with other parliamentarians
and community members attended the langar
being served in the langar hall. She then
proceeded to the Gurudwara hall where Sikh
Community
devotees were seated, and the kirtan was in
members and
progress. dignitories at
In her address to the community, Ms Gurudwara Sri Guru
Bennett expressed her joy being a part of the Harkrishan Sahib,
multicultural community and shared her views New Lynn
on the diverse society that New Zealand has
become. She congratulated the community for
the eighth anniversary of the Gurudwara and
acknowledged the contribution of the Sikh
community towards growth and progress of
this country.
After her address, a small prize distribution
ceremony was held where children as young as
four-years old were awarded for learning the
Gurbani and performing Kirtan.

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6 NEW ZEALAND Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

A musical evening of
fun and nostalgia
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

A
band of singers took the audience on
a nostalgic trip at the Mohammad
Rafi tribute concert on Saturday, July
22 at Avondale College. Titled Woh Jab Yaad
Aaye the evergreen hit song from the 1963 film
Parasmani, the event witnessed Aucklands
top sensational voices sing the melodies of the
yester years.
Umesh Sharma, a singer, himself organised
and hosted the show. The audience hummed
alongside him every song he sang on the
stage. Every song met with hoots, whistles and
applause that was followed by another great
performance.
Voices of renowned Auckland artists Guncha,
Rini Dadheech, Bhavna Suroshi, Sweta
Diwekar and Sreeutha Nannegari echoed in the
hall while the audience hypnotised themselves
into the melody.
The event played the melancholy as well as
the joyous numbers sung by legendary singer
Mohammed Rafi. Singers Ravi and Dharmesh
joined Umesh on stage to sing the songs sung
by Rafi, Kishore and Mukesh together.
Mayur Patel on keyboards and Chirag on
Rhythm who travelled from Mumbai, India Aapsa Koi Nahi from Bairaag were some of
specially for the event, wowed the audience the many songs played at the concert.
with their performances at the tribute concert. A medley of songs sung by Asha Bhosle and
Raat Ke Humsafar from the film An Evening Lata Mangeshkar was also presented to the
in Paris, Jo Wada Kiya Wo Nibhana Padega audience, and it was received with another set
from Taj Mahal, O Hasina Zulfon Wali from of applause.
Teesri Manzil, Main Pyar Ka Rahi Hoon from The event concluded with a standing ovation
Ek Musafir Ek Hasina and Saare Shehar Me for the singers.

Young Indian designers silk show-

stopper selected for NZFashion Week
SWATI SHARMA

A
proud Indian from Gods own land
Kerala is taking her passion
for fashion to the next level.
RaishalHarrisonis among 16 talented fashion
designers whose silk showstoppers will open
three shows at New Zealand Fashion Week to
be held from August 28 to September 3 at ANZ
Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland.
In four years of being in New Zealand, Ms
both the west and the south Asian influence into
Harrison has fallen in love with the people, the
high fashion streetwear, she said.
culture and the beauty of New Zealand. And
However, Ms Harrisons most profound
her fascination for the vibrant colours brought
fashion influence is her homeland India. Its
her closer to her dream.
the land of colours, culture, festivals, prints,
I came across a campus show that featured
textiles and mostly utter chaos.My goal is to
design students and their life in fashion
be a designer with purpose, providing work
school. I was fascinated by the colour palettes,
for women and contributing to the education of
illustrations, patterns, and the fabric choices the
children.
students made, andwas completely hooked on
In her own words, a vivid dreamerwho is
to the idea of becoming a fashion designer in
finally taking baby steps into making mydreams
the future, Ms Harrison revealed.
a reality with God Almighty beside me as my
The Manukau-based full-time fashion student
rock. Ms Harrison plans to eventually start her
hopes to work in the fashion industry soon.
own streetwear label both in New Zealand and
Her design in Resene Limerick a silk genius
India.
is the first step along that path whichhas been
From a total of 36 diploma students studying
chosen to open theResene Designer Runwayin
at NZ Fashion Tech campuses in Auckland and
three public shows at New Zealands pinnacle
Wellington, 15 were selected to travel and study
fashion event, for which tickets are on sale now
in Indiafor six weeks with Prime Ministers
at iTicket.
Scholarships for Asiain July, 16 were selected
Eightymetres of glistening silk in 16 Resene
to show their work at New Zealand Fashion
colours will emerge in the form of world-class
Week in August, and seven achieved both.
fashion finery, giving New Zealands newest
This is the fourth consecutive year Resene
fashion design talent a chance to make an
has joined with the New Zealand Institute of
earlier-than-usual career debut.
Fashion Technology (NZ Fashion Tech) in this
Stage lights will bring brilliance and sparkle
unique education-meets-colour collaboration,
to their looks as each show opens. Thousands
staged every year in the lead-up to
of fashion-savvy eyes and hundreds of cameras
Fashion Week.
will capture the moment.
A winner will be chosen by the judges to
Ms Harrison says that being an Indian
receive a special Resene prize, which includes
fashion designer in NZ, the two cultures
tickets to high-end Fashion Week shows and a
majorly influence her work.
custom-made Tailors Form, an essential tool-
Auckland is all about street fashion but here
of-trade for a fashion designer.
they dont take the risk of playing it with bold
The winner will be revealed the week before
colours. Whereas India loves its electric colours
Fashion Week.
and prints. As a designer, I want to incorporate
 The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28 2017 NEW ZEALAND 7

A Sikh ceremonial kirpan triggers

police raid on city bus The kirpan is a ceremonial sword or
knife which is carried by Sikhs as a
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
commandment given by Guru Gobind

P
olice raided an Auckland city bus on Monday, Singh in 1699. The word kirpan is
July 24, when a passenger had reported a Sikh
man carrying his ceremonial knife an article
believed to be formed with kirpa,
of faith of Sikhism. meaning "mercy" or "grace"; and aanaa,
The man travelling on the Inner Link service bus which means "honor" or "dignity". A true
in the Britomart and Queen St. area was carrying a
ceremonial knife (kirpan) which is traditionally worn
Sikh is expected to have the courage to
by Sikhs. The incident happened around 10 a.m. a defend the rights of wrongfully oppressed
busy time for the city commuters. irrespective of their color, caste, or creed.
The police stormed the bus and asked the man to
take off the kirpan and surrender, which he did politely,
a witness reported.
I saw the police car with sirens blaring behind us,
and the police came on the bus with a gun and asked
the guy Get your hands up so we can see them and get
out of the bus., the witness told New Zealand Herald,
who asked not to be named.
The passenger, thought to be in his 20s, was wearing
a turban and had a long, curved sword-like kirpan
strapped behind his back on the left side, which the
police removed, said the witness.
They said that the armed offenders squad was not
sent, but the witness was adamant he saw at least one
officer carrying a firearm.
Police spoke with the man, who is a Sikh, said the
police spokesman.
He was in possession of a ceremonial kirpan, which
is customary for Sikhs. The man, who is lawfully
living in New Zealand, was polite and cooperative and
no further action was taken.
The spokesperson said the ceremonial kirpan wasnt
confiscated.
National MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi has a
members bill in the Parliamentary ballot which, if
drawn and passed, would allow Sikhs to wear a kirpan
under certain circumstances.
A baptised Sikh has five articles of faith, and the
kirpan is one of them, Mr Bakshi said.
Recalling a similar incident from the not so distant
past, where a member of the Sikh community was
barred from entering cricket match being played
between India and Zimbabwe during the 2015 cricket
world cup, community leader Sunny Kaushal pointed
that at that time the Sikh community had taken up
the issue with law makers including the then Justice
Minister.
Together, we have been taking up this issue from
a long time and approached various political leaders
and Members of Parliament over the years, including
arranging their visits to Gurudwaras and organising
presentations on 5Ks - kesh (uncut long hair), kanga
(a comb), kara (an iron bracelet), and kachehra (under
shorts), Mr Kaushal said.
Earlier this month, when Prime Minister Bill English
visited Kolmar Road Gurudwara, Papatoetoe, he was
also apprised about these cultural aspects of Sikhism
and popular expectations among the community of
being allowed to move freely in public places along
with these important cultural artefacts.
Mr Bakshi has also previously spoken about the
need for legislation around ceremonial daggers, so its
clear they are not weapons and are safe to be worn.
The bill will ensure the kirpan can be no more than
10cm and must be worn under clothing.
It will also require those who wear it also to be
wearing the other four articles of faith kesh (uncut
long hair), kanga (a comb), kara (an iron bracelet), and
kachehra (under shorts).
In 2008, Mr Bakshi became an MP and the then
Speaker of the House, Lockwood Smith, allowed him
to wear the kirpan in Parliament and on planes.
A kirpan is usually worn inside ones attire and
normally is not exposed. It is blunt and doesnt have
a sharp edge.
He didnt know of any other incidents where Sikhs
had been stopped for wearing a kirpan, but said: We
are a multicultural society and it just shows that a
bit more work needs to be done to understand other
cultures. Mr Bakshi said.
 8 VERDICT2017
VERDICT 2017- SPECIAL
- SPECIALFEATURE
FEATURE Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

New Zealand Peoples Party to legalise use of

'reasonable force for self-defence'
SANDEEP SINGH

T
he New Zealand Peoples
Party is seeking to
revolutionise the countrys
law and order policy landscape
by offering to legalise the use of
reasonable force for self-defence
by people facing assault and threat
to their family and property.
The threat of criminal charges is
the last thing anyone wants to think
about when confronted in their home
or business.
However, we face a situation
where criminals know people are
more afraid of the legal consequences
of fighting back than they are
of them.
The party wants to give victims
the right to defend their family and
property, the partys press release on
the law and order policy launch said.
The party also want police to
determine whether the force used
in self-defence was reasonable.
Currently, this power is invested
exclusively in the judiciary.
The current system where it
is decided by courts whether self-
defence was reasonable takes up
valuable resources of our justice
system and criminalises victims who
have themselves just gone through
a highly traumatic event, the press
release said.
According to this policy, the
Police will still have the power to
charge someone when it can be
shown the force used was completely
unreasonable for the situation,
or there were motives other than
self-defence.
However, the party does not
condone the arming of the public to
defend themselves in any way, says
the press release.
The policy was launched today at a
popular Asian food restaurant on the
Dominion Road, Auckland that had
been a victim of the current crime
spree that New Zealand is facing.
Massive ramp-up of
Police department
T he Party is also keeping the
police department at the centre
of its newly launched law and order
policy and calling for a massive ramp
up in terms of staffers and police
stations.
The policy is calling for
augmenting police numbers by a
whopping 2400 and adding at least
50 extra Mobile Police Stations to
cities and towns across New Zealand.
The policy aims to lift the New
Zealand population to police ratio
from the current levels of 1: 538 to
According to this policy, the
Police will still have the power
to charge someone when it
can be shown the force used
was completely unreasonable
for the situation, or there
were motives other than self-
defence.
an ambitious 1:
450. crime rate goes up.
The current The policy also calls for providing
g o v e r n m e n t s an accommodation supplement to
announcement officers working in Auckland along
of extra 880 with providing for stronger deterrents
police by 2020 will only bring the against attacks on the police.
population to police ratio to 1: 527, The party is also for giving senior
the partys press release on the law station officers more power to decide
and order policy said.
Speaking at the policy launch, the
when officers should carry firearms.
The arms race between criminals
party leader Roshan Nauhria said that and the New Zealand Police has long
giving police the ability to recruit been lost by the Police.
based on population growth should As a country, New Zealand needs
allow them to maintain constant high to have an honest conversation about
levels of service and not have to go arming our police force, and it is a
begging to the government every few conversation we need to be proactive
years. about.
Consistency in staffing levels Lets not wait until more officers
will also go a long way to soothing die before we pluck up the courage to
out the crime rate burst that we see take a good look around, the party
every few years, as whenever police announced.
staffing levels get stretched, the

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 The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28, 2017
Tax cuts versus social
spending: what will
decide Kiwi-Indian
votes in this election?
SANDEEP SINGH
I
n a major election play, the government
has announced tax cuts earlier during the
budget this year, with a promise to rain
down money on workers and families with a
$2.2 billion Family Incomes Package which
will include tax threshold changes and changes
to tax credits.
It means that workers earning more than
$52,000 a year will get about $20 a week after
April 1, 2018, when this will be implemented,
seemingly asking voters to vote for the National
Party, if they want to receive that extra money
in their accounts.
The Labour Party has already declared that
they will scrap Nationals planned tax cuts
saying that now is not the time for tax cuts.
It is simply not credible for the government
to say that a thousand-dollar tax cut for Bill
English and me should be a priority over
ensuring New Zealanders have homes to live
in, modern schools, and world-class healthcare
when they need it, Labour leader Andrew
Little said.
Instead, Labour proposed its Targeted
Families Package, which it says will deliver up
to $48 a week extra to middle-income families
(and not the top earning families as the Labour
Party alleges would benefit in the Nationals
tax cut plan).
One important question that needs to be
asked here is: why is the time not right for
tax cuts as we are told that our economy is in
good shape with the governments debt to GDP
ratio lowest in about two decades, books are in
surplus and employment is growing as never
before, with around 10,000 jobs being created
every month as Prime Minister Bill English has
been saying publically?
In fact, Prime Minister English had suggested
enthusiastically that the National Party might
want to do another tax cut again, sometime
soon.
Speaking at the party conference in
Wellington in June earlier this year, Mr English
said: Wouldnt it be great if we could do it
again.
To be fair to everyone, then it might also
be asked here why New Zealand continues to
remain a low-wage economy, as many experts
believe, if everything is as good in the New
Zealand economy as the National Party wants
us to believe.
Like everywhere else in life, the truth
VERDICT 2017 - SPECIAL FEATURE 9
C re a te
Y O U R D R E A M D AY
I N T H E WA I R A R A PA
WITH OUR WEDDING & ACCOMMODATION PACKAGES
is somewhere in between and it seems the
promises of tax cuts and social spending are
being raised as a matter of political priorities
not by economic exigencies.
Eventually, both tax cuts and social spending
are seeking to help the end users the voters
with some extra cash that each political party
is calling differently. Like Nationals tax cut
can help tax-payers save an extra $10.86 or
$20 a week depending upon how much they are
earning. Labours education policy can save
parents from being asked to pay $150 school
donations every year.
There seems to be a lot of clutter right now
in the minds of Kiwi-Indian voters in New
Zealand around this hotly contested issue of tax
cuts and social spending that needs explanation.
What do tax cuts do for
the economy?
T
he expert opinion is divided about the
short-term and the long-term benefit of tax
cuts on a countrys economy.
Tax cuts mean reduction in individual taxes,
which largely benefits targeted tax-payers
by increasing their real income. Therefore
politicians often see tax cuts as rewarding tax-
payers.
However, tax cuts largely result in decrease
in the real income of the government, therefore
leading to question why a government would
$500
OFF* FULL BALLROOM
WHITE DRAPPING IF
want to do that as a loss of income will directly BOOKED BEFORE
impact governments ability in social spending 31 JULY 2017.
(things like health, education and so on, which
are seen to benefit those towards the lower
income bracket).
Generally, governments choose this pill
(accepting a decrease in revenue) for a variety
of reasons such as increasing the level of
domestic spend in the economy to boost overall
demand within countrys economy or just to
reward tax-payers.
It is not clear though, what is the driving
factor behind the National Governments
proposed tax cuts.
Social spending: 0800 765 939 | WEDDINGS@SOLWAY.CO.NZ | SOLWAY.CO.NZ
differences in priorities
D ifferent political parties have different
priorities in terms of spending their dollar.
While National Partys stated goal is to *ONLY VALID FOR NEW BOOKINGS, BOOK BEFORE 31 JULY 2017. MINIMUM 60 GUESTS .
use the maximum value of their earned dollar
to service the countrys debt and improve
 10 VERDICT 2017 - SPECIAL FEATURE Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

its books. The Labour Party traditionally

prefers to delay servicing of debt and use as
The Labour Party
traditionally prefers to
Tax cut versus social spending
much value from an earned dollar as possible and today there are more than 50,000 fewer
toward spending more on social sectors such as delay servicing of debt children in benefit dependent households than
education, health, etc. and use as much value five years ago.
Both these goals, servicing national debt and Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi If one of them is a care and support worker,
social spending are important political goals from an earned dollar as
National Party List MP they received a significant pay boost from 1
and are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as possible toward spending July. A full-time care and support worker on

many tend to believe.
While the National Party also spends socially
such as recently announced Accommodation
Supplement to assist families (on benefit)
living in relatively high-rent areas, the Labour
party, on the other hand, seeks to catch up
with Nationals demonstrated preference of
servicing the countrys debt-to-GDP ratio.
Currently, 23 per cent of GDP (when the
OECD average is 71 per cent), Nationals target
is to drive it down to between 10 per cent and
15 per cent of GDP by the middle of the 2020s.
The Labour (and the Greens) has set a target of
20 per cent in five years of coming to power.
Nationals and Labours
promises on tax cuts and
social spending
A gainst this backdrop, it is important to
have a brief overview of what voters can
expect in this election.
Labour will spend an extra $17 billion
over four years on health, education and
family incomes in the Budget if it wins the
coming election.
$8bn on health (This is on top of what
National has already committed).
This extra health money would go to mental
health services, more affordable primary
care, providing more operations and the latest
medicines, as the party claims.
$4b on education will mean a plan to end
voluntary school donations for parents,
rebuilding outdated school buildings,
more on social sectors
such as education,
health, etc
addressing teacher supply issues and few other
policy measures offered in 2014 campaign like
requiring ECE centres to employ at least 80 per
cent qualified teachers by the end of its first
term and extending the 20 hours of free ECE
education for three- and four-year-olds to 25
hours per week.
Labour plans to spend $5bn between Working
for Families, Best Start package and the Winter
Energy Payment.
National Partys promised tax cuts plan can
potentially give an extra $1000 a year to many
average Kiwi-workers and families.
Expectedly, both political sides are blaming
each other for making improper calculations
and having differing priorities.
What will decide Kiwi-
Indian votes?
T
owards this goal, this weeks election
special issue is focussing on the debate
between tax cuts versus social spending, calling
all political parties to put forward their views.
This will help Kiwi-Indian voters in making
their choices clearly for the forthcoming
general elections.
I
n Budget 2017 National took a significant
step in delivering the benefits of a strong
economy to New Zealanders. In particular,
we want to strengthen families by lifting
their incomes.
Id like to share with you some of the ways
the Government is helping families and how the
Budgets Family Incomes Package helps them
share the benefits of strong growth.
If you look at a family on a benefit with
three children, since 2014 they will have
found it easier to get their children into early
childhood education, thanks to significant extra
investment in the sector.
OnApril 1,last year they would have
received an extra $25 a week thanks to the first
increase in benefits in over 40 years.
Our growing economy is also making it
easier for members of this family to move into
work, with over 200,000 jobs created in the last
three years. Thats why we have the lowest
proportion of people on a benefit in 20 years,
the minimum wage now takes home at least
an extra $100 a week thanks to the increases
passed by the Government.
Thats on top of normal pay increases with
the average annual wage up $12,000, twice the
rate of inflation, since we came into office.
The Budgets $2 billion Family Incomes
Package, which kicks in next April, will provide
extra support through tax reductions, increases
to Working for Families and increases to the
accommodation supplement if a family has
high housing needs. It will raise the incomes
of 1.3 million families by an average of $26
a week.
The Families Incomes Package is the next
step in allowing Kiwi families to spend more
of their own money, to make the decisions that
are best for them. We want to reward Kiwis for
their hard work.
National believes taxpayers make better use
of their own money than politicians.

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 The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28, 2017 VERDICT 2017 - SPECIAL FEATURE 11

Nine long years of chronic under- Lets make New Zealand

spending on public services great - together

Priyanca Radhakrishnana James Shaw

Labour MP candidate Co-leader, Green Party
from Maungakiekie

L T
ike many other migrants, I moved to his year will be key in New Zealands
New Zealand for its stunning natural history. of the lack of resources. Too many dairies are
beauty, a world class education system On one side, you have parties like
primary health care in the world, second only being robbed and police are taking too long
and its reputation as a safe, fair society. New the Green Party who are promoting responsible
to America. Since 2009, there has been a 51 per to respond.
Zealand is a wonderful country and staying on investment, prudent fiscal settings and a
cent increase in total mental health callouts to New Zealand used to be the envy of the
and making it my home was the best decision I managed approach to solving the many issues
the Police, who call it an indictment on the world for our clean rivers, our pristine drinking
have ever made. that we as a country face.
wider mental health service that Police are left water and our 100% pure clean green image.
However, theres so much more we need to On the other, you have irresponsible parties
to care for the most vulnerable. But now our rivers are unswimmable, 45,000
do to ensure that everyone regardless of their like the National Party and their coalition
In 2016, then Police Minister Judith Collins New Zealanders are drinking water mixed with
socio-economic status or background have the partners. National has spent about nine years
signed off a four-year Police strategic plan that faecal contaminants and our emissions are the
same opportunities and access to services. As in office now and weve seen the results. Our
stated there would be no increase of Police fifth highest in the developed world.
many have said, the greatness of a society and hospitals choked with untreated patients, our
numbers for the four-year duration. After None of this has happened by accident. This
its moral progress can be judged by the way it rivers polluted and our streets teeming with too
considerable opposition from Labour, the is the result of National spending its time in
treats its most vulnerable. many families without a home.
government decided to increase Police numbers government looking after special interests. The
In New Zealand today, we have 75 000 Its not an accident that New Zealand is
by 880. Unfortunately, according to NZ Police Greens will put you and your family first. We
children who live in cold, damp, moldy homes now the most expensive place to buy a home
an increase of just 880 meant that there will will fix broken public services so that you or
over half of them have at least one parent (according to the Economist) and has the
be no dedicated extra resources for rural New your kids can get the help you need whether
who is working. Every year, 40 000 children highest rate of homelessness (according to
Zealand or Auckland and limited additional from a doctor or a police officer when you
are hospitalized with preventable respiratory both the OECD and Yale University) in the
crime prevention capacity. NZ Police asked need it. We will make sure that every New
illnesses largely caused by substandard rental developed world.
for an increase of 1165 Police to make even a Zealander has access to affordable, warm,
homes. Homelessness figures have been rising Meanwhile news about long hospital waiting
ten per cent reduction in serious crime. dry and healthy housing. We have a plan to
and we now have 41 000 people who are living lists and exhausted medical staff continue
Labours fiscal plan focuses on addressing clean up our drinking water so we can drink
in cars, garages and tents or sleeping rough to make headlines. Is it any wonder with the
the Governments chronic underfunding of pristine water without faecal contamination.
on the streets. Most people my age cant even consistent underfunding that our hospitals and
health, community safety, education and And our real climate action plan with a Green
dream of buying a home unless their parents clinics have to cope with that theyre feeling
housing instead of giving tax cuts to the rich. Infrastructure Plan will generate jobs and keep
can afford to help them out financially. the strain?
The next Labour-led government will ensure New Zealand safe from climate change.
On the campaign trail, I meet young mums And more and more we are seeing that
that our nation once again treats its most Because the Green Party knows that it
who tell me they have to choose between putting communities are feeling unsafe. No wonder
vulnerable with dignity. In September, please is only when we put aside our individual
food on the table. More than 500 000 New when theres an aggravated robbery almost
use your vote to change the government to one differences and work as one that we can be
Zealanders cant afford to see their GP. New every week. No wonder that a stretched police
that works for the many, not the few. Great Together.
Zealand has got the worst access to equitable force is failing to provide the protection because

TOUGHEST
ON CRIME
OWN YOUR FUTURE
PARTY VOTE

Authorised by L Fergusson, Level 2, 27 Gillies Avenue, Newmarket, Auckland

 12 VERDICT 2017 - SPECIAL FEATURE
Tax cuts will get our tick, says
New Zealand Peoples Party
Anil Sharma
President,
New Zealand Peoples Party
T
he major proportions of Indian
population in NZ are new migrants who
arrived to NZ from late 1990s and early
2000s. During these years number of Indians
arriving in NZ has increased with most coming
on student visas. They have successfully
transitioned from students to citizens in 7-8
years and working full time.
Partners of these new migrants also have
joined their other half in supporting the family
by taking up jobs. Most Kiwi-Indians would
favour tax cuts as opposed to welfare payments
because of this very reason.
Once the income levels of households
increase, they usually do not qualify for any
welfare benefits like accommodation benefits,
community services card, etc. and feel the pinch
by way of increased taxes on total household
income.
Increased tax deductions put these families at
disadvantage as they have to pay more tax on
total income earned at the same time they do
not get the necessary benefits associated which
is a double whammy for them. Reducing the
tax rates on total income earned is one of the
solutions which will work in favour of Kiwi-
Indian families who want to get ahead on par
with other prosperous countrymen.
Social spending by way of more welfare
benefits will be a de-motivating factor
labour.org.nz/vision
Fresh Policies to:
. Put more community
police on the streets
. Build affordable
houses for
families
Michael Wood MP
Spokesperson for
Ethnic Communities
Labours Ethnic Communities
Outreach Team
Michael.Wood@parliament.govt.nz
ethnic.communities@parliament.govt.nz
85 Grafton Rd, Auckland NZ 1010
09 373 3332
for people who want to work or start new
businesses. Once people start working and
getting paid will lead to giving back by way of
expenditure in retail, grocery and other items
leading to overall development of economy.
Money comes back to the government by way
of GST and other taxes leading to increased
spending by the government.
On the other hand increased payments for
welfare will create a dependency syndrome
where people do not want to work and feel
de-motivated to work. They will have a false
sense of security that money will be available
at the end of the week and will spend on things
not essential.
The real worth of wealth is lost and people
will find ways to avoid work. This will lead to a
generation of dependency which is detrimental
to the whole society.
Social spending may play a part in the
decision making of Kiwi-Indians in the next
20 years when these migrants will grow old
and may need social benefits for health and
pension schemes. At present the proportion of
Kiwi-Indians needing these welfare schemes
is very small so the majority would favour tax
cuts which will make more money available for
them to spend on housing, groceries, schooling
and healthcare.
We can say unequivocally that Kiwi-Indians
will look up to a party which will deliver on
this promise of tax cuts which will be more
beneficial for them not only in the short term
but also in the long period as they establish their
working culture as the main cause for survival.
. Get young people
into jobs, education
and training
Andrew Little MP
Labour Leader
Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender
High Commission of India
Wellington, New Zealand
INDIA @ 70
School Competitions
This year, India celebrates 70 years of freedom. On this occasion, High Commission of
India invites you to take part in two competitions! The competition is open to all school
students in New Zealand, Samoa & Niue.
Prizes to be won in each competition:
1st Prize: NZ$ 200
2nd Prize: NZ$ 150
3rd Prize: NZ$ 100
Poster Competition Essay Competition
Topic: My Idea of India Topic: Journey of Independent India
Paper size: On A4 paper only Word Limit: Not exceeding 1000 words
Eligibility: Age 8 12 years Eligibility: Age 13 18 years
Submit via Post only to: Submit via Email only to:
High Commission of India com.wellington@mea.gov.in
PO Box 4045, Wellington 6011
Submission details:
Submit on or before: 07 August 2017 (Monday), 5:00PM (NZST)
Entry must include: Copy of your ID (showing your age/ date of birth). Also include
the name of your school & provide your full home address.
For queries, please email: com.wellington@mea.gov.in
Connect with us on:
Website Facebook Twitter
www.hicomind.org.nz @HighCommissionofIndiaNewZealand @IndiainNZ
Terms & Conditions:
Only one entry per person will be accepted.
Entries after the submission deadline will not be accepted.
An entry without the requested details, will not be accepted.
No responsibility will be taken for late/lost/misdirected email or post.
Entering the competition is deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.
Winners will be announced mid-August 2017 via email and social media.
High Commission reserves all rights on any aspect of the competitions.
Raj Singh
Candidate for
Manukau East
Raj is the founder and Principal of a South Auckland based
law firm who wants to share his professional success by giving
his community a voice and representing them in Parliament
through his work with the Green Party.
He is passionate about policy, law, effective communication
and leadership, education and immigration.
Raj often offers legal education seminars to communities.
Authorised by Gwen Shaw, Level 1, 17 Garrett Street, Wellington
Tough on Crime to Make
2,400 More Police On The Streets
50 Exta Mobile Police Stations
Accomodation Supplement For
Auckland Police Ocers
Stronger Deterrent for Attacks
on Police
Party Vote
Protect Victims of Crime
Legalise Self Defense
Create A Comprehensive
Gun Register
@NZPeoplesParty nzpeoplesparty.org.nz/lawandorder
Your Family Safe
Get Tough on Serious Youth
Oending
Tougher Sentencing for Youth
Committing Robbery and
Burglary
Boost the Youth Justice
System
Rehabilitation Based
Sentencing
Increased Access to
Rehabilitative Services
Multi Disipline Sentencing
Boards
Authorised by Anil Sharma, 258-260 Balmoral Road, Sandringham, Auckland
 14 NEW ZEALAND Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

SOUTH ISLAND FACES THE Vanakkam Tamizha - a radio show

connecting the South Island Tamil community

NATURES FURY AGAIN

GAURAV SHARMA

Massive flooding across the region caused by last weeks C

oordinated by
a Sri-Lankan
Tamil, Luxmanan
Selvanesan, who moved to
storm; state of local emergency declared in various cities Dunedin in 1999 to study
as a student, Vanakkam
GAURAV SHARMA Standout statistics: (coutesy NIWA- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research) Tamizha the only radio

L
ast week for two days, July
21 and 22, many parts of
Canterbury, particularly
Selwyn, South Canterbury and
Waimakariri, experienced record
rainfall, leaving the ground saturated
and causing flooding in some
areas. Hundreds of houses were
evacuated, roads turned into rivers,
and Christchurch, Dunedin, Timaru,
Waitaki and the wider Otago region
declared a local state of emergency.
While the rains stopped on Sunday
morning and all states of emergency
were lifted by Wednesday this
week, the region eastern areas of
the South Island is still reeling
from extensive flooding. Making
matter worse, are predictions from
Metservice of another storm hitting
the South Island this weekend, which
could possibly bring more flooding
to already saturated Canterbury.
Notably, New Zealand defence
forces were called in flood-hit areas
in Canterbury and Otago. They
helped people out of Christchurch,
Dunedin, Oamaru, Timaru, Waitaki,
Ashburton and Outram as flood
waters due to the rising Heathcote
and Taieri Rivers threatened homes.
As the current was too strong in some
areas to evacuate on foot, boats were
used for the same. To not let burglars
take advantage of the evacuations,
police patrols were in place overnight
in majority areas.
Oamarus wettest day on record since daily rainfall records started in 1950.
That happened on Friday when 161.2mm was recorded in 24 hours. The
previous record was 128mm in April, 2006. In a normal July, Oamarus
total rainfall is 40.6mm. Moreover, winter 2017 has now become Oamaru's
wettest on record and July 2017 the wettest July for the town on record.
Dunedin had its wettest July day on record since 1918 on Friday when
89mm fell beating the 2007 record of 75.8mm.
Christchurch recorded 88.6 mm at the airport. Christchurchs normal July total
rainfall is 64.7mm. The extreme rainfall over the weekend coincided with some
very high storm tides for Christchurch. The peak storm tide about about 3:15
pm on Saturday was equal highest recorded in last 13 years
very closely.
Meanwhile,
Minister of
Civil Defence
Nathan Guy,
while praising
the efforts of
those who were
involved in
responding to
the floods said,
The impacts
of these floods
will be felt
Flooding also closed roads for some time in communities
throughout Canterbury and Otago, throughout Canterbury and Otago.
including parts of State Highway 1. Thus, the Government is ready to
Boiling water advisories were issued provide support where its needed,
in many parts of the region. and financial assistance is available
Christchurch Mayor Lianne to local authorities that have been
Dalziel who lifted the city's state affected.
of emergency on Tuesday said, As further rain is forecast in
The immediate dangers posed by coming days, we urge the public
significant rainfall and abnormally
high tides are now behind us. Although
to take care. Dont drive through
floodwaters and avoid non-essential
we are transitioning into a recovery travel as there is still widespread
period, we are still monitoring river surface flooding and debris on the
levels, tides and weather forecasts roads, he cautioned.
show in the South Island
in the ancient classical
language of Tamil, celebrated its
sixtieth show last month. Along
with Rajesh Katare and Suresh
Emperumal, Mr Selvanesan runs the
radio show every Tuesday at 7pm,
using the platform of Otago Access
Radio (OAR) on the frequency
105.4FM.
We are very thankful to OAR,
especially its community liaison
manger Jeff Harford, in helping us
run the only Tamil show in the South
Island. In fact, he was our guest last
month, at our sixtieth show. Our aim
is to celebrate the richness of Tamil
language and culture. Its a place for
uniting Tamil communities, with no
national barriers, Mr Selvanesan
said.
An initiative of an informal
grouping of Tamilians in Otago
known as the Dunedin Tamil Friends
(DTF) - with almost 200 members
from countries including India, Sri
Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia as well
as Fiji - Vanakkam Tamizha was
launched in early 2016. Normally,
the weekly show includes local
Tamil community news, interviews,
popular music, as well as sharing of
Indiance delivers yet another quality
production with Finding Aaliyah
IWK BUREAU
poems and literary works.
We also publicise migrant stories
of successful Tamilians across New
Zealand. Latest in this series was our
interview with Pancha Narayanan,
who is a Malaysian Tamil and
the present President of the New
Zealand Federation of Multicultural
Councils, Mr Selvanesan added.
An important and widely
appreciated recent innovation that
Vanakkam Tamizha did was to
launch a ladies only segment in
their show. Geeta and Aruna, who
are Singaporean and Malaysian
Tamil respectively, hosted the first
show where they discussed issues
affecting ethnic women in the
region. Additionally, they also gave
a moving tribute to the legendary
actress Manorama, who passed
away in 2015, and has a mention in
Guinness World Records for acting in
over 1,500 films in a career spanning
nearly six decades, he added.
Going by the success we have
achieved in bringing the community
together, we will be incorporating
DTF as a registered charity later this
year. Till now, it has been more of
an informal grouping of like-minded
people, he said.

Christchurch Airport opens B

ollywood was brought to life
on stage at the ASB Theatre
in Auckland on Saturday,

multi-faith prayer room July 22.

Indiance, New Zealands original
Bollywood dance school, put on
another breath-taking performance.
In what is probably the first such in New Zealand, the official Finding Aaliyah was a spectacular
opening of the prayer room took place on July 21 show that brought all the elements When would they find out who
of a Bollywood movie alive and they are? Who would tell them? And
GAURAV SHARMA within touching distance. The sets, how would they react? As one of the

T
he new Christchurch Airport
prayer room is located on
the ground floor next to the
domestic baggage area collection
point, between international arrivals
and the check in hall. The prayer
room is open during the domestic
terminal hours of operation, seven
days a week. Signs at strategic
locations guiding visitors towards the
room are also in place.
The dedication ceremony was
attended by representative leaders
of the Catholic, Muslim, Hindu and
Buddhist communities attended and
individually blessed the room. It was
done in the spirit of friendship and
respect, to embody why the room
was built, a spokesperson of the
Christchurch Airport said.
The room has a varied selection of
holy books, both in English and bi-
lingual to ensure people of all faiths
feel welcome, the spokesperson
added.
One of those who attended the
ceremony was Ibrahim Abdul Halim,
one of the trustees of the Canterbury
Muslim Community Trust and
former vice-president of the
Federation of Islamic Associations of
New Zealand.
Ms Sara Percy, the Duty Manager
at Christchurch International Airport
who deserves a lot of credit for this
contacted us a month back with the
proposal. Then we met to chalk out
the details. We have kept copies of
Quran and other Islamic literature,
and prayer mats in the room. A
sign indicating the direction toward
Mecca is also in place, Mr Halim
said.
While to start with, the room
will be used by men and women
both, in time, we are looking for
separate rooms for the genders. With
Christchurch becoming more and
more multicultural, and the number
of visitors increasing by the day,
this is a much-needed initiative. And
the Christchurch Airport authorities
deserve a lot of credit for making this
a reality, in what is probably a first in
New Zealand,Mr Halim added.
the lighting, the song selection was
all complemented perfectly by the
unbelievable choreography and
acting put on display.
The story was filled with songs
and dances from all over India. The
tour guide character was exceptional
and had many chuckling with every
punchline perfectly delivered. He
was the soothsayer and sometimes
the counsellor for the other actors.
The two main male actors took the
audience on a journey through their
view of India. Their friendship was
one many people could relate to.
It started tentatively as many new
relationships but grew in depth as
the story went on. The whole first
half was a blur of colour, lights and
laughs.
The opening of the second half
had the audience knowing who
Aaliyah was in the first two scenes
and then the rollercoaster was at its
peak with twists and turns to come.
A very clever story play intertwined
the two boys and their relationship
with Aaliyah, which became an issue
and this is where your curiosity was
aroused.
boys was Aaliyahs brother he was
protective over his sister, the other
being her boyfriend made things
complicated. With a bit of fumbling
around and understanding, the boys
finally resolved their differences and
a happy ending was a nice conclusion
to the show.
The reactions of the audience after
the show mirrored what the cast and
crew felt. It was a huge success.
Reviews:
Had a date night with my youngest
son on Saturday night at the Indiance
NZ Finding Aaliyah showfabulous
songs, dancing, costumes, scenes
a true Bollywood experience!-
Impressions Event Design NZ
Congratulations Indiance for
delivering the show Finding Aaliyah
at international standards. Your
creativity and art is a gift. The team
worked hard to make sure the show
captured the audience. Indiance, keep
up the great work. Ella Kumar
Another beautiful production by
Indiance. Every show gets better and
better. This is the goal. Keep learning,
keep growing and dream big. An
audiencemember (unnamed)
 FIJI

Rama Krishna Mission launches cardiac

The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28 2017 15

stress test facility

M
inistry of Health and Medical
Services Permanent Secretary Philip
Davis while opening the Sarada
Medical Centre, acknowledged Rama Krishna
Missions contribution to health services in Fiji.
The privately-run Centre is Rama Krishna
Mission Fijis first Cardiac Stress Test Facility
located at Ashram Road, in Nadi
Organisations such as the Rama Krishna
Mission play a vital role in working alongside
Government to improve peoples access to vital
health services, Mr Davis said.
We recognise that Government plays a
lead role in paying for health care, we also
need to welcome others who can help deliver
Foundation based in New Zealand.
This initiative is a response to the high
incidence and risk of cardiac diseases among
Fijians, Rama Krishna President Swami
Tadananda said.
He thanked those that have continued to
support this charitable initiative to serve people
and save lives.
Our approach is to proactively screen
heart diseases for early detection and adopt
treatment or measures to prevent or minimise
further escalation to levels requiring major
interventions. This is a first of its kind for
Western, Viti Levu, Mr Krishna said. Ministry of Health and Medical Services Permanent Secretary Philip Davis at the Sarada Medical Centre,
Ashram Road, in Nadi on July 19, 2017.

0508 15 16 17
health care, and this medical centre is a perfect
example of the public and private sectors
working together for the benefit of the local
population, he said.
He added that there was a need to move on
from a view that Government was the only
organisation that could deliver health care
and recognise that other organisations were as
capable, indeed sometimes more capable, of
providing what people needed.
I must be clear that I am not arguing for
privatisation of our health system. It is widely
acknowledged that the best and fairest health
systems are those where Government is the
major funder.
This is to ensure that we make the best
possible use of the resources that are allocated
to us and we work cooperatively with others
who share a healthier and happier Fiji.
The total investment of the project is $80,000
which includes equipment, manpower and

Indian Subcontinent On Sale

drugs. The EST machine worth AU$30,000
(F$48,336.28) was donated by the Ranchhod

Fiji rejoins Miss Asia

Pacific after 29 years Air China $ 884 * Thai Airways $ 1025 *

A
fter a lapse of 29 years Fiji will once

China Southern $ 965 * Singapore Airlines $ 1145 *

again be part of the Miss Asia Pacific
International Pageant.

999 * 1155 *
Pageant Local Marketing committee member,
Solomone Rabuli said the platform was similar China Eastern $ Malaysia Airlines $
to the Miss World pageant but focusing mostly
on the Asia Pacific countries.
He confirmed that eight contestants were (Travel Until 30 Nov 2017 and After 16 Jan 2018)
picked from 15 young Fijian women who

December Special
participated in the auditions last month in Suva.
Mr Rabuli was a 2013 Hibiscus King
contestant. He said as part of the selection
criteria the contestants agreed to wear a bikini

$ 1450*
and have to meet expected criteria.
The contestants first exposure was on
Saturday last week. They were part of the
clean-up campaign organised by the Pacific
Fiji Airways $ 1200* Hongkong Airlines

Jet Airways $ 1430* Air China $ 1480*

Islands Development Forum.
The cleanup campaign is the start, and is
aimed at getting the young women to go out
and do community work, Mr Rabuli said.
The contestants have also been attending Around The World Special
Los Angeles $ 982* Europe $ 1309*
workshops learning more about climate
change, he said.

Islamabad $ 983* Istanbul $ 1395*

He said in the upcoming weeks there will be
community visits where the contestants will

Colombo $ 1070*
be learning first hand issues affecting climate
*(Inclusive All Taxes)
change in Fiji. Sponsors for the event include
Image Fiji Limited, Tanoa Plaza Hotel, Navneet
Studio and Aspire Network. The committee (Available Before 30 Nov 2017)
welcomes sponsors willing to support the event.
The crowning finale will be held on
September 9. The queen represents Fiji in the ecotravels.co.nz
Philippines in November.
The last contestant who represented Fiji
in 1988 was former Miss Hibiscus, Lenora
Qereqeretabua, under the then name Miss Asia
Pacific Quest. Fiji joins Samoa, Cook Islands,
and Guam from the Pacific Islands in this
years pageant. *Ts & Cs apply
 Thought of the week
Build your own dreams or someone
else will hire you to build theirs.
Farrah Gray
Editorial Auckland Weather forecast for the week

Why blaming
July 28 - August 1, 2017
Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu
migrants for Auckland
public transport woes Cloudy Mainly Cloud Occasional Rain, Rain with Showers

would not help?

with fine, increasing rain easing to little with north-
a few chance Light winds developing showers wind westerlies
showers shower.

T
he recent unfortunate incident of finding a human body near the Papatoetoe train 13 13 15 15 15 16 16
station on Wednesday, July 26, and the accompanying chaos in transporting 7 6 9 9 9 9 11
commuters to their respective destinations has quietly brought to attention the
burning question of resilience in Aucklands public transport system.
Quietly because, otherwise in the present election related high-decibel environment,
This week in New Zealands history
almost every noise related to Aucklands public transport and other infrastructural woes is 2 August 1983
intrinsically linked with immigration and the record level of immigrants arriving in Protest as USSTexasvisits Auckland
New Zealands largest city.
As if we all have collectively become intellectually challenged to some extent to mull T he visit of the nuclear-powered guided missile cruiserTexassparked anti-nuclear rallies
on land and sea. Port visits by United States warships had been controversial for a number
of years. Two nuclear-powered cruisers, USSTruxtunandLong Beach, had attracted protest
about these issues without relating them with immigration in any manner.
when they visited New Zealand in 1976. On each occasion, Civil Defence established a public
In that regard it was a bit refreshing to be able to spare a thought about Aucklands public
safety headquarters for the duration of the visit. Similar action was taken for the visits of the
transport system without having to put the blame on immigrants, though the context was
submarines USSPintadoin 1978 andHaddoin 1979.
completely unfortunate and unwarranted.
The question of resilience is important because defined in a simple way resilience is the 4 August 1923
ability to survive a crisis and to thrive in a world of uncertainty. City planners and decision Rail tunnel pierces the Southern Alps
T
makers might want to reserve the question of resilience for a situation or a crisis involving he opening of the 8.5-km tira
gravity of a higher magnitude called as hazard. tunnel completed the long-planned
However, from an ordinary commuters perspective, a situation of this magnitude would transalpine railway between Christchurch
also merit the question of resilience as it has the potential to cause major disruptions in and Greymouth. At the time, it was the
their day to day life. longest tunnel in the southern hemisphere
and the sixth-longest in the world.
According to reports in the media, the incident was reported at around 7.30 a.m. requiring
attention of the police and emergency services and disrupting train services till about 10.30
a.m. when normalcy was restored thus bringing to the fore the issue of resilience in the
public transport system. 4 August 1965
A three hour long disruption in the citys public transport system that claims to be a Cook Islands achieves self-government
fast growing global city, especially during the peak hours of commuting, is not an ideal
situation for anyone. F irst included within the boundaries of New Zealand in 1901, the islands were governed
by a Resident Commissioner until 1946. When they achieved self-government, Cook
Islanders remained New Zealand citizens.
It is also not the best reflection of the way we are preparing our public transport system
for the future, especially the resilience part.
A similar situation in a Melbourne train station earlier this month requiring police Indian Weekender : Volume 9 Issue 19
attention (though not involving any injury or death) caused only a thirty-five minute delay Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited
and a better response of alternate travel arrangements for the commuters. Managing Editor: Bhav Dhillon | bhav@indianweekender.co.nz
In comparison to that, there was major chaos and wait time for commuters in the Content Editor: Sandeep Singh | sandeep@indianweekender.co.nz
Papatoetoe incident before bouncing back to normalcy.
Chief Reporter: Swati Sharma | swati@indianweekender.co.nz
For many, this will be a question of the fact of single rail lines, which is again linked to
Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | rizwan@indianweekender.co.nz
question of (or lack of) investments, or differing priorities (between train and bus as the
Chief ReporterSouth Island: Gaurav Sharma
main carriers of Aucklands people) or at best it could be a choice between steady growth
versus rapid growth proposals. Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz

Apparently, the government in 2007 had noted that a steady growth (of public transport Sr Graphics and Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz
spending and infrastructure construction) was favoured over the rapid growth proposals Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | design@indianweekender.co.nz
advocated by Auckland area leaders such as Papakura District mayor John Robertson, Accounts and Admin.: 09-6366306 | accounts@indianweekender.co.nz
because the associated costs, raised by means such as a regional fuel tax, might put too Sales and Distribution: 022 3251630 | sales@indianweekender.co.nz
much financial pressure on Auckland.
Since then a lot of water has gone under the bridge. Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher
What has remained permanent is that Aucklands public transport system seems to is not responsible for advertisers claims as appearing in the publication
be growing, almost aimlessly, with too many ideas floating around and without much
Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent
concerted action.
the views of the team at the Indian Weekender
Often it appears that the question of Aucklands public transport is caught up or
paralysed amidst ongoing clutter of ideas and noises that are believed to have stopped our Kiwi Media Publishing Limited - 133A, Level 1, Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland.
planners and decision makers from taking decisive actions to improve - and record level Printed at Horton Media, Auckland
of immigration numbers is one such idea that has seemingly obscured our ability to think
Copyright 2017. Kiwi Media Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved.
clearly on public transport.
In contrast, there are multiple issues in the complex planning and administration of
public transport that also need attention.
 The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28, 2017 OPINION/EDITORIAL 17

Indian Diaspora Debatable issues and actions needed

VEER KHAR

S
tanding tall at around 200,000, the
Indian diaspora is one of the major
ethnic groups in New Zealand.
With mainly the labour class coming in as
early settlers, the modern day Kiwi-Indians
are making their presence felt in almost every
field and even dominating some of the sectors.
Law abiding, hardworking, living simple,
focused on their children and proud of
their heritage are some of the distinct
characteristics of these people. There are other
identifiers which do not hold them in high
esteem, though, and these include a lack of self-
respect, docile nature, prone to exploitation,
living cheap, stagnated in history and even
discriminating among their own. The following practices. Strong community associations need to be brought to forth. Dairy cant act As a community we love to take care of our
write up is intended to shake this inertial stance can then make provisions to usher in as the flagship of Kiwi-Indians any more. parents and we still try to look for an Indian
and generate a debate to bring about the much representation. The List MP System does Issue 3: Most of our religious places are partner but because we lack a coherent
needed change. not substitute representative governance run as private enterprises with practices voice, we allow such rules that are anti basic
Issue 1: Kiwi Indians are without particularly for major players like like male- female segregation and many human rights. The community needs to put in a
any representation in the NZ Parliament. Kiwi-Indians. other practices that we find difficult to joint front to get it changed.
We must clearly understand that the MPs Issue 2: When we enter most digest in the 21st century. Again this needs individuals to join17 and
of Indian origin are the list candidates of the dairies run by Kiwi-Indians, the To ensure our next generation continues make associations representative and then the
of respective political parties and not as environment is gloomy and ready to to value spiritual wellness and adheres to same need to work together to be a force to
representatives of the Indian community. surrender to the first pocket knife-bearing some basic disciplines, any such practice reckon with. And the list of Issues goes on
H ence we have no basis of asking for adventurer. Being on the receiving end needs an abrupt end or we may even have Elections provide an opportunity to take stock
their accountability or even pushing perpetually denotes a docile and weak to boycott any such institution. We may of such things and we Kiwi Indians should avail
our agenda through them. In China the character. have to advise the Prime Minister and the opportunity.
communist party decides representation From the current practice of playing other leadership of the country that their A debate is being organised on Saturday,
for the community and we do not see it exploited all the time, it is high time visit to such places only strengthens these September 2, 2017, at Vodafone Centre by
much different when National or Labour that we take appropriate measures with obsolete, superstitious practices. Indian Association of New Zealand and all are
or others decide representation of ethnic regard to operation hours, self defence Issue 4: Immigration rules that welcome to join. Details will follow soon.
groups. Outcome: The diaspora is devoid mechanisms, charge safety royalty to prevent parents coming to live with Veer Khar is the community leader and
of democracy. companies that want dairies to sell the children or the rules that delay after former president of the India Association
of New Zealand (IANZ). The views
Way forward could be to seek membership products that invite addicts and change marriage union (as one of the partners is expressed here are those of the author's
of any of the Indian Associations and the whole outlook of the business. Owners coming from India) are mainly affecting alone and do not necessarily represent or
engage to bring in modern day democratic exploitation of the Operator may also Kiwi-Indians reflect the views of The Indian Weekender

Discourse of
the Diaspora
We leave our land
And look for a home
Away from home.

We own or rent a few square feet

And share space with others.

We shun our culture, language

And mingle with others.

We learn their culture, language

And the ways of their living.

We adjust with their food,

Their dress and their deeds.

We learn their slogans

And praise their heroes.

We raise our children

Singing their songs.

Our efforts go in vain,

Our mingling becomes a dream
And we look for a new vocabulary.

We create our own discourse

With a deep sense of alienation
And the diaspora rises.

Sanjib Kumar Baishya

Assistant Professor, University of Delhi
New Delhi, India
 India's 14th
18 INDIA Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

Indira Gandhi
saw herself as an
environmentalist,

President swornin not politician:

Jairam Ramesh
I
ndira Gandhi

pledges to follow mantra of Constitution may have been

criticised
her policies during
for

her tenure as Prime

Minister and called
authoritative
but what
people
hardly
knows is
that she
was very
much an en-
vironmentalist
and naturalist, said
senior Congress Indira Gandhi in
leader Jairam Ra- Himachal Pradesh; winter

M
aking history as the first occupant
of Rashtrapati Bhavan from the
BJP, President Ram Nath Kovind
on Tuesday, Julu 25, pledged to always follow
the basic mantra of the Constitution to ensure
justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
Elected to the highest constitutional office
last week, Kovind was administered the oath of
office by Chief Justice of India J.S. Khehar at a
brief but glittering ceremony in the Central Hall
of Parliament before a gathering of MPs, Chief
Ministers and diplomats.
Taking oath in the name of God, Kovind
pledged to preserve, protect and defend the
Constitution and the law and devoted himself
to the services and well-being of the people of
India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ministers,
opposition leaders including Sonia Gandhi and
former Prime Ministers Manmohan Singh and
H.D. Deve Gowda attended the event.
At the end of over three hours of protocol
and formalities on a rain-marred day, the new
President accompanied his predecessor Pranab
Mukherjee to the latters new abode -- 10
Rajaji Marg -- after his warm farewell at the
Rashtrapati Bhavan.
In his speech, Kovind hailed the vision
of Mahatma Gandhi and Sangh icon Deen
Dayal Upadhyay and said there was a need to
build India as an economic leader as well as
moral exemplar.
For us, those two touchstones can never be
separate. They are and must forever be linked.
Recalling his humble beginnings from
First photo of former President Pranab Mukherjee at his residence 10, Rajaji Marg, New Delhi.
Pranab Mukherjee enters his new residence
growing up in a mud house in an Uttar Pradesh mesh on the life of 1956 (Courtesy Indira
village, Kovind said he has had a long journey. Indias iron lady. Gandhi:A Life in Nature)
Yet this journey is hardly mine alone. It is The former Union
so telling of our nation and our society also. Environment Minister was speaking at an
For all its problems, it follows that basic mantra event organised at the Foreign Correspondents
given to us in the Preamble to the Constitution - Club of South Asia to promote his recent book
ensuring justice, liberty, equality and fraternity Indira Gandhi: A Life in Nature published
and I will always continue to follow this by Simon & Schuster India, (Price Rs 799,
basic mantra. President-elect Ram Nath Kovind and his wife pp 448). The book, which is released to mark
In another line that avoided any reference to pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat before the centenary year of Indira Gandhi, is an
Congress occupants of the Rashtrapati Bhavan being sworn as the 14th President of India in New
unconventional environmental biography.
Delhi on Tuesday
barring two, Kovind said he was conscious he The environmental Indira Gandhi was
was following the footsteps of stalwarts such as entirely different. Very few are aware of her
Rajendra Prasad, S. Radhakrishnan, A.P.J. Abdul inclination towards environment. She became
Kalam and his predecessor Pranab Mukherjee. a politician not by choice but by force of
Referring to Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel circumstances. She was born in a political
and Constitutions architect B.R. family and grew up within the influence of
Ambedkar, the President politics, Ramesh observed.
said these leaders did not It is
He pointed out that Gandhis initial days at
believe that political appropriate
Santiniketan took her closer to nature. It was
freedom was enough; that the land also her education in Switzerland and her stay
it was crucial to also of Lord Buddha with her mother in the hills that helped shape
achieve economic should lead the world her inclination towards nature.
and social freedom in its search for peace, While talking about the relevance of his
for millions. tranquility book in the present scenario, Ramesh said
The key to Indias and ecological Indira Gandhi was the main brain behind
success is its diversity. balance. the implementation of four laws that govern
Our diversity is the core that environment regulation in India -- the Wildlife
makes us so unique. In this land Protection Act of 1972, the Water (Prevention
we find a mix of states and regions, religions, and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974, the
languages, cultures, lifestyles and much its ancient values and compliant with the fourth Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980, and the
more. We are so different and yet so similar industrial revolution, he said. Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act
and united. There is no dichotomy there, no question of 1981.
21st century India will be in conformity with of choice. We must combine tradition and Not just that, the state Pollution Control
technology, the wisdom of an age-old Bharat Boards, the Central Pollution Control Board,
and the science of a contemporary India. the Ministry of Environment were all created
He said as the gram panchayat must by her. She was also Indias first Minister of
determine Indias consultative and community- Environment from 1980-1984, he said.
based problem solving, the Digital Republic Ramesh cited an example on how in the
must help leapfrog developmental milestones. 1970s, Indira Gandhi was the only leader in
But nations were not built by governments the world to make environment a global and
alone. The government can at best be a political issue.
facilitator and a trigger for societys innate In 1972, when the UN had its first
entrepreneurial and creative instincts. Nation Conference on Environment in Stockholm,
building requires national pride. Indira Gandhi was the only Prime Minister in
We take pride in the soil and water of the world to attend it apart from the Swedish
India. We take pride in the diversity, religious PM, he pointed out.
harmony and inclusive ethos of India. We take
pride in the culture, heritage and spirituality of
India. We take pride in our fellow citizens.
Saying each citizen was a custodian of Indias

K
eeping with the tradition, President
Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday
gave a warm farewell to his
immediate predecessor Pranab Mukherjee
and accompanied him to his new residence
10, Rajaji Marg a short distance from
the massive Presidential Palace, to bid him
good bye.
Earlier, Kovind was given a guard of
honour by the Presidents Bodyguards after
being sworn in as the new President.
Before entering the study of the Presidential
Palace, Kovind inspected an inter-services
guard of honour. Then the outgoing President
was given a guard of honour by the Presidential
Bodyguards.
After inspecting the Presidents
Bodyguards, Mukherjee was accompanied
to his new residence by Kovind, led by the
horse-mounted bodyguards.
The formal ceremony was attended by
a host of VVIPs, including Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra
Mahajan, union ministers, opposition leaders,
governors, chief ministers and Chiefs of Staff
of the three services.
well-being, Kovind said the armed forces that
protect the borders were nation builders.
So were police and paramilitary forces that
fight terrorism and crime as well as farmers,
scientists, nurses, doctors, entrepreneurs and
artisans. India believed in the principle of
one world.
It is appropriate that the land of Lord
Buddha should lead the world in its search
for peace, tranquility and ecological balance.
Indias voice counts in todays world. The Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi watching
entire planet is drawn to Indian culture and lions in Gir, Gujarat; November 1955 (Courtesy
soft power. Indira Gandhi:A Life in Nature)
Privacy cannot be excuse for
The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28, 2017 INDIA 19

evading tax obligations: Jaitley

I
n the backdrop of the debate generated by
the appeals on Aadhaar being currently
heard by the Supreme Court on whether
privacy is a fundamental right, Finance
Minister Arun Jaitley said privacy cannot be
touted as an excuse not to comply with ones
legal obligation on tax matters.
Taxes are the backbone of any economy.
In India, the mindset of the people on taxes
is gradually changing and they want that no
one should be exempt from tax, Jaitley told
Income Tax (I-T) Department employees at an
event here to mark Income Tax Day 2017.
Privacy cannot be made an excuse for non-
compliance, he said, exhorting the Department
officials to expand the tax base in a non-
intrusive manner.
The I-T Department has made quoting the
Aadhar Unique ID number mandatory in filing citizens. The data of each person is linked to a
income tax return from July 1. unique 12-digit identification number.
The Supreme Court is considering whether On the sidelines of the event on Monday,
privacy is a fundamental right of every citizen Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)
in a case that could have implications for the Chairman Sushil Chandra told reporters that
countrys biometric identity programme. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) will not have to
Activists, lawyers and politicians have give details of their bank accounts held outside
challenged the government over the legal the country while filing their income tax returns,
basis of the Aadhaar priogramme, while provided they are not seeking refunds.
the apex court will decide if the "Taxes It (providing details of foreign
system should be thrown out are the bank accounts) is not mandatory. It
or modified. backbone of any is optional. It is for cases where
The Aadhaar unique ID economy. In India, the refund is sought, Chandra said.
authority has collected mindset of the people on taxes That column in the income
fingerprints, iris and facial is gradually changing and they tax returns (ITRs), he said, is to
scans, as well as addresses, want that no one should be be filed in only one condition,
phone numbers and personal exempt from tax" that is, if they (NRIs) are seeking
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley
details of more than 1.1 billion a refund.

Nitish dumps RJD, Congress; 10 islands chosen for

to form government with BJP
I T
n dramatic developments in Bihar, Nitish
Kumar resigned as Chief Minister dumping
the RJD and Congress to stitch a new
alliance with BJP, which quickly announced
support to a new government under him and
said it will join it too.
Nitish Kumar, whose resignation was
immediately accepted by Governor Keshari
Nath Tripathi, is expected to stake claim to
form the new government on Thursday in
which Sushil Kumar Modi is likely to return as
Deputy Chief Minister.
Ending a 20-month-long coalition of the
Grand Alliance that defeated the BJP in 2015,
Nitish Kumar met the Governor in the evening
and handed his resignation claiming he can't
work in the "current circumstances" following
corruption charges against Deputy Chief
Minister Tejashwi Yadav -- son of RJD chief
Lalu Prasad.
But he didn't rule out a tie-up with the
BJP to run a future government. As if in
synchronization, Prime Minister Narendra
Modi hailed Nitish Kumar's resignation, the
BJP announced its support to the JD-U leader,
Bihar BJP leaders had dinner with Nitish
Kumar and then gave a letter of support to the
Governor -- all in a matter of three hours.
"I have been doing my best to provide good
governance... But the circumstances have so
developed that it was difficult for a person like
me to continue to be in power. That is why I
met the Governor and gave my resignation," he
told reporters outside Raj Bhavan.
He was initially evasive about taking support
from the Bharatiya Janata Party. "What has to
holistic development
he government has chosen ten islands
in Lakshadweep and Andaman and
Nicobar for their holistic development
in the first phase of work being done by newly
constituted Island Development Agency (IDA),
it was announced on Monday.
BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi and other party Smith, Ross, Aves, Long and Little Andaman
leaders during a meeting called after Bihar Chief
Minister Nitish Kumar resigned from his post
in Andaman and Nicobar while Minicoy,
Bangaram, Suheli, Cherium and Tinnakara
happen has happened. What will happen now in Lakshadweep are among those selected
you keep watching. We will definitely keep in the first IDA meeting chaired by Union are being prepared for identified islands
Bihar's interest in mind and do what is good Home Minister Rajnath Singh after detailed with principles of sustainability, peoples
for Bihar and its people," he said. consultations with key stakeholders, a Home participation, eco-system preservation and
Nitish Kumar did not recommended the Ministry statement said. determination of carrying capacity as the
dissolution of the assembly, indicating his
readiness to work with the BJP.
Shortly after Prime Minister Modi welcomed
the developments in Bihar, BJP leader and
former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar
Modi said his party was against mid-tern polls.
"Many many congratulations to Nitish
Kumar for joining the fight against corruption.
125 crore citizens of the country welcome
and support this honest move," the Prime
Minister tweeted.
"It is the need of the hour to rise above
political differences for the bright future of Andaman and Nicobar.
"It
Bihar and unite in the fight against corruption,"
he added. was also
Nitish Kumar responded: "I am thankful to The IDA was set-up on decided that Lt guiding principles.
Narendra Modi for supporting the decision June 1 following the Prime Governor of Andaman Such an exercise is
I took." Minister Narendra Modis and Nicobar Islands being taken up for the
The BJP Parliamentary Board quickly met in review meeting. and Administrator of first time in the country,
Delhi and appointed a three-member committee In the meeting, Rajnath Lakshadweep Islands will Amitabh Kant said.
of Bihar leaders to study the situation. Singh presented the vision for be included as members IDA Chairman and

473 pilgrims leave for Amarnath

developing Indias maritime of IDA" former Navy chief, Admiral
economy while preserving the natural D.K. Joshi (retd.), suggested

T
he smallest batch of 473 pilgrims left
here on Wednesday for the Amarnath
cave, an official said.
As the 40-day long ongoing yatra to the
Himalayan cave in the Kashmir Valley
entered its 28th day, the number of pilgrims
shrunk further than in the last few days, the
official said.
The group left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri
Niwas in an escorted convoy of 14 vehicles.
This is the lowest number of pilgrims
undertaking the yatra on a single day since its
beginning on June 29, he added.
So far, more than 2.50 pilgrims have paid
obeisance inside the cave shrine situated 3,888
metres above the sea-level.
The cave houses an ice stalagmite structure
that devotees believe symbolizes mythical
powers of Lord Shiva. The devotees approach
the Cave Shrine either through the traditional
south Kashmir Pahalgam route or through the
north Kashmir Baltal route. So far, 48 pilgrims
have died during the Yatra.
The Yatra will conclude on August 7 with the
arrival of the Chari Mubarak (Lord Shivas
Mace) at the cave shrine on Shravan Purnima
coinciding with the Raksha Bandhan festival.
eco-system and addressing the security
concerns. He also emphasised upon the need
for sustainable development of islands with
peoples participation.
NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant made a
detailed presentation on the current status
and the way forward for holistic development
of identified islands. He said that concept
development plans and detailed master plans
taking up suitable interventions
for sustainable implementation of planned
projects. During the meeting, the progress
being made for the formulation of integrated
master plans and other matters concerning
the islands development were reviewed, the
statement said.
It was also decided that Lt Governor
of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and
Administrator of Lakshadweep Islands will be
included as members of IDA, the statement
further said, adding with this meeting, the
efforts for holistic development of islands of
India received a major boost. Other members of
the IDA including the Cabinet Secretary, Home
Secretary, Environment Secretary, Tourism
Secretary and Tribal Welfare Secretary also
participated in the meeting.
 20 INDIAN ABROAD Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

Greet global
Alphabet appoints Pichai to
its board of directors
audience with A
lphabet Inc., the parent
company of Google, has
appointed Indian-born

Hindu salutations,
Google CEO Sundar Pichai to its
board of directors.

Miss T&T urged

Sundar has been doing a great
job as Googles CEO, driving strong
growth, partnerships and tremendous
product innovation. I really enjoy
working with him and Im excited
that he is joining the Alphabet
board, said Larry Page, CEO of
Alphabet, in a statement. Google CEO Sundar Pichai
As Googles CEO, Pichai is
responsible for Googles product In 2014, Pichai took over
development and technology product, engineering and research
strategy, as well as the companys efforts for all of Googles products
day-to-day operations. and platforms.
Chanka won the Miss World Trinidad and Tobago 2017 title He joined Google in 2004 and After years of working closely
last Sunday. She was crowned by the reigning queen Daniella helped lead the development of key with Googles co-founders, Page and
Walcott after beating back some tough competitors
consumer products which are now Sergey Brin, Pichai became Googles

I
n the Caribbean nation, where
44 percent of the population is
of Indian origin, the new Miss
Trinidad & Tobago has been advised
Trinidad and Tobago 2017 title Pageant in China in October and used by over a billion people CEO in August 2015.
last Sunday.
She was crowned by the
to bring home that glory and
international honour as a Hindu
Amarinder wants Canada to rein in radical
reigning queen Daniella woman for Trinidad and Tobago, Sikh elements

to greet global audiences at the Miss
World 2017 pageant in China in
October with Hindu salutations like
Sita Ram, Namaste.
Chandini Chanka will be the
person of Indian origin in 40 years
to represent the multi-ethnic society
at the international beauty contest in
Sanya, China.
Surujdeo Mangaroo, Public
Relations Officer of the National
Council of Indian Culture (NCIC),
the countrys premier socio-cultural
organisation, made the plea at a
reception held in Chankas honour at
Divali Nagar, Chaguanas, earlier this
week. Chanka won the Miss World
Walcott after beating back some
tough competitors.
I want to remind Miss Chanka
that as she makes her way on the
international stage ... please do
not forget or ignore the traditional
Hindu form of greetings, Sita Ram,
Namaste, Mungroo said.
He said that when Chanka won
the annual Miss Divali Nagar Queen
Contest in October 2015, she strode
the walkaway with dignity, poise,
confidence and conviction that she
was the winner all through, even
before the results were announced.
I hope these values would be
applied at the Miss World Queen
Mangaroo said.
Chanka is the only daughter of
Debra and Krishendath Chanka
of Aranguez, San Juan. She has a
brother and holds a bachelors degree
in international relations and has
been accepted to pursue a law degree
at the University of the West Indies
in September.
She has plans to become an attorney.
Trinidad and Tobagos Indian
diaspora hails principally from Uttar
Pradesh and Bihar. People from
these two states were brought to the
country to enhance the agricultural
capacity of the then colony between
1845 and 1917.
P
unjab Chief Minister
Amarinder Singh stressed
the need for Canada to rein in
the radical elements trying to use its
soil to spread strife and divisiveness
in India. He raised the issue with
Jalandhar-born Canadian MP
Rameshwar Singh Sangha, who
called on him here.
While such elements, including Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh
Khalistani supporters, could not have divisive messages in India through
any impact on the Canadian political the use of the social media, he said.
environment, they could influence Amarinder Singh also said the
the people of India and vitiate the Canadian government should crack
atmosphere here. down on these forces and ensure that
Unfortunately, these elements they do not have a free run on social
were successful in spreading their media and other public platforms.

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 The Indian Weekender Friday, June 28, 2017 WORLD 21

NASA issues safety tips to understanding

Zuckerberg has limited
of AI: Elon Musk
view solar eclipse I
n the ongoing spat between
two tech honchos, Founder and

P
eople who plan to view the solar eclipse should CEO of SpaceX Elon Musk has
check the safety authenticity of viewing glasses hit back at Facebook CEO Mark
to ensure they meet basic safety standards, NASA Zuckerberg, saying the Internet
has recommended entrepreneurs understanding
A total solar eclipse, which is when the Moon of artificial intelligence (AI) is
completely covers the Sun, will occur across 14 states in limited.
the continental US on August 21, along a 112 km-wide Ive talked to Mark about this
swath of the country. More than 300 million people in (AI). His understanding of the
the US potentially could directly view the solar eclipse, subject is limited, Musk tweeted.
and NASA wants everyone who will witness this celestial The tweet came after Zuckerberg,
phenomenon to do so safely. during a Facebook livestream last
Its common sense not to stare directly at the Sun with week, castigated Tesla founder
your naked eyes or risk damaging your vision, and that Musk for arguing that care and
advice holds true for a partially eclipsed Sun, NASA said regulation was needed to
in a statement on Friday. safeguard the future
But, only with special-purpose solar filters, such as if AI becomes
eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer, you can safely mainstream.
look directly at the Sun, the statement added. I have
Eclipse viewing glasses and handheld solar viewers exposure to the
should meet all the criteria such as they should have Greenbelt, Maryland. very cutting-edge
certification information with a designated ISO 12312- Its important that individuals take the responsibility AI and I think
2 international standard, have the manufacturers name to check they have the proper solar eclipse viewing people should be Facebook CEO Mark
and address printed on the product, not be used if they glasses. With the eclipse a month away today, its prudent really concerned Zuckerberg and Founder
are older than three years, or have scratched or wrinkled to practice ahead of time, Young added. about it, Silicon Valley and CEO of SpaceX Elon
Musk
lenses, not use homemade filters An alternative method for safe viewing of the partially- Business Journal quoted Musk
Ordinary sunglasses even very dark ones -- should eclipsed Sun is with a pinhole projector. as saying. capabilities, he has coded and
not be used as a replacement for eclipse viewing glasses In addition, the space agency has coordinated with Responding to this, Zuckerberg developed his own Jarvis to run
or handheld solar viewers medical and science professionals to provide additional said during livestream: I think his home. Zuckerberg has built
While NASA isnt trying to be the eclipse safety safety information to the public. people who are naysayers and a simple AI that he can talk to on
glasses police, its our duty to inform the public about This image of the moon crossing in front of the sun was try to drum up these doomsday his phone and computer, and that
safe ways to view what should be a spectacular sky show captured on Jan. 30, 2014, by NASAs Solar Dynamics scenarios I just, I dont understand can control his home, including
for the entire continental US, said Alex Young, Associate Observatory observing an eclipse from its vantage point it. Its really negative and in lights, temperature, appliances,
Director at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Centre in in space. Credits: NASA some ways I actually think it is music and security, that learned his

Neuroticism may be linked with long life

pretty irresponsible. tastes and can even entertain his
Musk has been speaking daughter Max.
The system he developed uses
frequently on AI and has called its

I
ndividuals with higher levels
of neuroticism a personality
trait associated with negative
emotions are likely to have longer
lifespan and lower risk of mortality,
regardless of their health conditions,
a study has claimed.
Persons with high levels of
neuroticism are more likely to
experience negative emotions
nervousness, worry, and guilt
compared with those who have lower
levels of neuroticism.
Our findings are important
because they suggest that being
high in neuroticism may sometimes
have a protective effect, perhaps by
making people more vigilant about
their health, said lead researcher
Catharine R. Gale from the
University of Edinburgh.
The findings showed that higher
neuroticism is linked with slightly
lower risk of death from all causes
and cancer.
However, we found that this
protective effect was only present in
people who rated their health as fair
or poor, Gale explained.
We found that people who scored
high on one aspect of neuroticism
related to worry and vulnerability
had a reduced risk of death regardless
of how they rated their health, Gale
said. For the study, published in
the journal Psychological Science,
the team examined data collected
from 502,655 people aged between
37 and 73.Participants completed
a validated personality assessment
measuring neuroticism and indicated
whether they thought they were in
excellent, good, fair or poor health
overall.
The data also included information
on participants health behaviours
(smoking, physical activity), physical
health (body mass index, blood
pressure), cognitive function, and
medical diagnoses (heart problems,
diabetes, cancer).
progress the biggest risk we face as
a civilisation.
AI is a rare case where we need
to be proactive in regulation instead
of reactive because if were reactive
"I think people who are
naysayers and try to
drum up these doomsday
scenarios I just, I dont
understand it. Its really
negative and in some
ways I actually think it is
pretty irresponsible."
in AI regulation its too late, a
report in TechCrunch quoted him
as saying. Zuckerberg calls himself
an optimist when it comes to AI.
Inspired by Iron Mans artificial
assistant (AI) Jarvis and his
several AI techniques, including
natural language processing, speech
recognition, face recognition and
reinforcement learning.
During the recent livestream
session with his fans, he observed
that AI would be responsible
for such lifesaving services
as diagnosing diseases and
driving cars.
One of the top causes of death
for people is car accidents still and
if you can eliminate that with AI,
that is going to be just a dramatic
improvement, Zuckerberg said.
The war of words between the
two top CEOs is not new.
Last year, when a SpaceX rocket
carrying a Facebook satellite
broke up into fragments during
its launch in Florida, the incident
stirred a controversy between Musk
and Zuckerberg.

Elton John feels Prince Harry inherited incredible gift from Diana
S
inger Elton John says Prince
Harry inherited late Princess
Dianas incredible gift of
making people feel everything was
going to be alright.
In the upcoming documentary,
Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and
Legacy, friends, family and admirers
of the late royal speak candidly about
her charitable efforts.
The show recalls how, by shaking
hands with a patient at Britains first
Aids unit, at Londons Middlesex
Hospital in 1987, she smashed the
notion that the virus was passed
SIR Elton John has paid tribute to Princess Dianas groundbreaking campaign
work and told Harry he has inherited her ability to put people at ease
straight, to have someone care from
the other side, was an incredible gift.
John says that her efforts to
promote HIV and AIDS awareness
live on through her son, reports
people.com.
She had that incredible ability
which (Harry) kind of inherited to
make people feel at ease and make
them feel that everythings gonna
be all right, John, 70, said in the
documentary. Elton praised Diana's work to help HIV/Aids patients

by touch.
Sir Elton said: It was considered
to be a gay disease and for someone
who was within the Royal Family
and who was a woman, and who was
I havent experienced many
people in my life who have that
ability, but she could walk into a
room of people and make them feel
as if everything was great, he added.
Diana was a campaigner for
HIV and AIDS awareness and
treatment. And, along with John, the
documentary features appearances
by Dianas brother Charles Spencer
and singer Rihanna,
who took an HIV test
alongside Prince Harry in
Barbados last December to help
break the stigma of getting tested.
Diana shakes hands with an AIDS
victim as she opens the AIDS ward at
Middlesex Hospital
 22 SPORTS Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

DHAWAN, PUJARA TONS TAKE INDIA

TO 399/3 AT STUMPS VS SRI LANKA
C
enturies from opener Shikhar moved away slightly after pitching.
Dhawan (190) and one-down Pujara joined Dhawan and enjoyed some early
Cheteshwar Pujara (144 not out) luck when he edged Pradeep off the second ball
helped India reach 399/3 at stumps on the he faced but the ball went for a boundary after
opening day of the first of the three-Test landing wide of the slip cordon.
cricket series against Sri Lanka . Dhawan however, continued to display
Electing to bat at the Galle International excellent form at the other end, finding the fence
Stadium, India rode on a 253-run second at regular intervals.
wicket effort between a blazing Dhawan and Pujara soon settled his nerves and gave
a steady Pujara to surpass the highest ever Dhawan excellent support at the other end
first days total of 351 runs in Sri Lanka. as the former collected runs very quickly and
Later, Pujara, who notched his 12th Test registered his century after the lunch break.
century, and Ajinkya Rahane (39 not out) Equally aggressive against the spinners, the
put on an unbeaten 113-run fourth-wicket Delhi batsman further dominated the Sri Lankan
stand to take the visitors to their second bowling after reaching the three-figure mark.
ever highest opening days total the Dhawan finally fell when he tried to smash a
highest being 417/2 in the 2009-10 home Pradeep delivery over mid-off but mistimed his
series against Sri Lanka. shot and Angelo Mathews pulled off an easy catch
Dhawan smashed the rather ordinary in the first ball of the 55th over.
Sri Lankan bowling all around the ground, Just after the 10-minute tea break, India suffered
racing to 190 runs off 168 deliveries a big blow when captain Virat Kohli was caught by
with 31 boundaries studding his hurricane wicket-keeper Niroshan Dickwella, attempting to India's Cheteshwar
innings. The 31-year-old Dhawan, who got pull a bouncer from Pradeep, with India at 286/3. Pujara celebrates his
century on Day 1 of the
into the 16-member squad as Murali Vijay Pujara, who was batting on 77 then, was joined first test match between
was injured, registered his fifth century in by Rahane and the pair played some sedate cricket. India and Sri Lanka
Test cricket -- a perfect way to send a message Pujara and Rahane took ones and twos as the at Galle International
Stadium in Galle, Sri
to the selectors. It was also his highest score in Sri Lankans stepped up the pressure with their Lanka
the five-day format. confidence boosted by Kohlis wicket.
His opening partner, Abhinav Mukund Pujara broke the dry patch by despatching
(12), who got into the playing XI due to veteran left-arm spinner Rangana Herath for two
Lokesh Rahuls illness, however, couldnt fours in the 66th over. And in the fifth ball of the
impress the selectors. Mukund next over, a drive towards mid-on off Kumara
struggled a bit, hitting only two gave him a two to complete his hundred in 173
India's Shikhar Dhawan celebrates his
century on Day 1 of the first test match
boundaries off pacer Lahiru Kumara deliveries. By that time, Rahane too had a grip
between India and Sri Lanka at Galle during his 26-ball stay in the middle. on the conditions and he was looking good at
International Stadium in Galle, Sri Lanka. But the left-hander virtually gifted 39 not out from 94 deliveries at the end of the
his wicket to Nuwan Pradeep when days play, with Pujara unbeaten on 144 as India
he decided to go after a ball which look strong for a huge total on the second day.
You are likely to establish yourself firmly on the made on the work front, but will not affect you.
professional front. Professional rivalry may egg Overspending may upset your home budget.
you on to perform better. Lover will respect your
need for space and keep away. Shifting closer Lucky Number- 6 / Lucky Colour- Peach
to workplace is possible for some. Switching Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 21)
July 28 to August 3 | By Manisha Koushik to a healthy diet is indicated for those wishing
to come back in shape. Not having enough to Taking care of someone who means a world to
Manisha Koushik is a practicing astrologer, tarot card reader, numerologist, vastu and splurge may frustrate some. you is likely to bring untold benefits for you in
fengshui consultant based in India with a global presence through the online channels. She is the future. You are likely to prove your mettle on
available for consultations online as well. E-mail her at support@askmanisha.com or contact Lucky Number- 17 / Lucky Colour- Navy Blue
the professional front. Enrolling in a prestigious
at +91-11-26449898 Mobile/Whatsapp: +919015607139 www.askmanisha.com Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23) academic institution cannot be ruled out for
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) get the better of you, so remain guarded. Things some. Wedding of someone eligible in the
It is important to keep everyone on your right
may go on a downswing on the academic front side, especially during the present period. You family is likely to be solemnised. Those in love
A daunting task will be accomplished with are likely to take their romance to the next level.
and get you all tensed up. Keep your financial may develop feelings for someone working
ease, as you set your mind to it. Professional An excursion with friends is possible this week.
position under wraps. closely with you and usher in a budding
excellence is likely to keep you on the forefront at
work. You are likely to get the better of someone Lucky Number- 9 / Lucky Colour- Magenta romance! A spot of leave may find you packing Lucky Number- 11 / Lucky Colour- Pink
who is envious of your success. Financially, you bags for a short vacation. Shifting in the
Cancer (Jun 22-Jul 20) vicinity of your workplace to avoid commuting Aquarius (Jan 22-Feb 19)
will remain comfortable and even take a chance
to splurge. An active lifestyle adopted by you You are likely to add to your reputation on cannot be ruled out. You may have to give your
Extending a helping hand without even being
will suit you perfectly in remaining fit. Hectic the professional front by volunteering for hundred-and-one per cent to profession, if you
asked is possible. Setting priorities is likely to
activities on the social front may upset your something challenging. Getting into a better expect to make your mark.
assume importance, as workload increases
personal schedule. salary grade is possible for some. You will be Lucky Number- 8 / Lucky Colour- Light Blue on the professional front. Confusion prevails
successful in getting something you wanted
Lucky Number- 5 / Lucky Colour- Light Green Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22) on the academic front, but you will be able to
on the academic front. Your active lifestyle will
ensure that you remain fit and energetic. A trip take the right decisions. Hectic pace of a social
Taurus (Apr 21-May 20) You may have to keep a promise, if you want
is in the offing, so pack your bags and enjoy. event may drain you, but you will enjoy it all the
There are many options available to you, so to win over someone on the romantic front. same. Financially, this week does not augur well
dont be in any hurry to choose without due Lucky Number- 18 / Lucky Colour- Red Professional rivalry is likely to discourage for you, so remain extra vigilant. Lover may plan
deliberations. You will be able to impress all and you from giving your best. Disappointments out something special, so play along!
Leo (Jul 21-Aug 22) on the academic front cannot be ruled out for
sundry on the professional front. Performing
well on the academic front is a foregone There is some good news that awaits you at some. Investing in a dubious scheme in the Lucky Number- 15 / Lucky Colour- Parrot Green
conclusion. Your cost cutting measures are work. Financially, you are likely to remain on a hope of getting rich quick may make you lose
a substantial amount. Searching for a suitable Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)
likely to benefit you a lot. Maintaining a balanced safe wicket, but controlling your urge to splurge.
diet may begin to show on your body earlier A happening time with your near and dear ones mate for yourself or someone eligible may It is difficult to fathom the commitment of a
than expected. Disagreements and arguments is foreseen. Something that you do on the prove most challenging. Plan a leisure trip. subordinate, but give the devil its due. Sticking
threaten to spoil the domestic atmosphere. social front may give you instant recognition. to priorities at work will help you in tackling
Lucky Number- 1 / Lucky Colour- Light Brown
Those in a long-term relationship may take their
Lucky Number- 7 / Lucky Colour- Golden Brown all issues in an orderly manner. Better options
romance to the next level. Looking up people Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)
on the academic front may materialise soon.
Gemini (May 21-Jun 21) you have not met in years is possible. Health
remains satisfactory. Dont be upset if someones views on an issue An investment option is likely to suit your
You may not be in the right frame of mind this may not coincide with yours, take it in your requirement. Keeping good health will become
week for completing a pending task, so take your Lucky Number- 4 / Lucky Colour- Violet stride. You may take a break from routine to your aim and you will put in the efforts to
time. Getting deeply involved with someone pursue something that you like. An invitation achieve it. Someones insensitivity in a social
Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 23)
on the romantic front cannot be ruled out for to a wedding or party is possible. You are likely gathering may hurt and upset you.
some. Shifting to a better accommodation is Dont expect any favouritism on the academic to think up ideas to make your love life more
indicated for some. Office politics threaten to front, as you are likely to be judged on merit. fulfilling. Some adjustments may need to be Lucky Number- 22 / Lucky Colour- Violet
 The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28, 2017 TIME OUT 23
Crossword Answers to last week's puzzles

Send us stories, drawings, poems and other

contributions by your little ones along with
their photographs for this page. E-mail us
at reporter@indianweekender.co.nz

1
 24 FEATURES
Top 6 destinations to escape to this winter
W
hile the world in the northern
hemisphere is all set to bask in the
sun with summer on the way, our
Kiwis are dealing with the not so good cold and
rainy weather.
Most cities have already started to experience
the winter blast with temperatures going as low
as -2 degree Celsius. With winter not leaving us
so soon, an idea of going on a holiday doesnt
sound that bad, does it?
Here are our top picks for you to choose from
to escape the winter and have all the fun in
the sun
Los Angeles - United
States of America
L ive your American dream. Its just the
perfect time to go especially to Los Angeles
with its sprawling beaches and crazy night life
it gets only better in the summers. The city
is always buzzing with concerts and carnivals.
Besides, who knows if you are lucky enough
you might just spot one of your favourite
Hollywood stars having brunch at one of the
local cafs. The temperature is as high as 30
degree Celsius these days and with longer
days, cooler nights, get ready for some endless
entertainment.
Getting there Direct flight (12 hours) from
Auckland to Los Angeles Air New Zealand &
American Airlines.
TRUST TRAVEL CORNER TO HELP
YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY
Travelling is not only limited to visiting new destinations but its all about
EXPLORING the destinations. At Travel Corner, we provide solutions for
any of your travel needs emerging from requirements of air tickets right
through to your arrival back into your home town. All services in your
trip are at your fingertips at www.travelcorner.co.nz We are proud to be
market leaders in providing professional advice/service with immense
knowledge in travel industry.
Mobile: 022 4747 454 | Email: info@travelcorner.co.nz
London England
L ondon is the place to be for all the Harry
Potter fans. Give yourself a break this winter
and visit London for a magical encounter. The
Warner Bros. Studio tour will give you a true
Harry Potter experience. From props, costumes
to the actual film sets it is sure to blow
your mind. For all our non-Harry Potter fans,
there are heaps of things to do from top class
museums to just walking down the historical
streets witnessing beautiful architecture. For
those looking for some royal treatment why
not visit the Queen at Buckingham Palace?
Getting there All major Airlines from
Auckland Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar
Airways, Malaysian Airlines, Thai Airways.
Bangkok Thailand
B a n g k o k
the capital
and the most
populous city of
Thailand is the
perfect south Asian
getaway. But make sure y o u
have at least a week or two to explore as only
2-3 days are just not enough. From buzzing
city life, temples, palaces to secluded beaches,
Bangkoks got everything. Also, if you are a
foodie then you are in for a treat.
Bangkok has a wide variety of food. Its
known for its cheap eats. You will never feel
like eating Thai curries at your local takeaway,
once you have eaten in Bangkok. So, dont get
rid of your summer clothes just yet, pack them
in your bag and fly off this winter Bangkok
is waiting!
Getting there Direct flight (12 hours) from
Auckland to Bangkok with Thai Airways.
Friday, July 28, 2017
Dubai UAE
Looking to go on a holiday somewhere
exotic? Love shopping? Well think no more
fly to Dubai. With Emirates introducing a direct
flight from Auckland to Dubai, its never been
easier for our Kiwis to explore this beautiful
city which is also known as the business hub of
the world. Experience how it feels to be at the
top of the world- quite literally in Dubai as it
has the worlds tallest structure Burj Khalifa.
Besides all the gold lovers must visit Dubais
Gold Souk (Gold Market). Guys beware, the
girls with you might just go crazy there.
Getting there Direct flight from Auckland
(17 hours) with Emirates.
Singapore
T he ultimate
destination for a
nice family holiday.
Singapore caters to
adults as well as kids.
The famous Universal
Studios is in Sentosa
Islands in Singapore.
The thrilling rides at the
theme park will be a dream come true
for your children. Besides the night safari
0800 2 247 365
The Indian Weekender
and the beautiful botanical gardens are sure
to intrigue each person who visits it. Keep in
mind Singapore can be a little expensive as
compared to other south Asian countries, but
the dollar value of Singapore and New Zealand
is almost the same, with Singapores dollar
value being slightly higher.
Getting there Direct flight from Auckland
(10 hours) with Singapore Airlines.
Vancouver Canada
J
ust like
our pic-
turesque
New Zea-
land, Cana-
da also has a
beautiful city
VANCOUVER. It has
got a mix of both urban a n d
natural surroundings with forests and moun-
tains. A must see is the Stanley Park Seawall
which is a 28 Km long pathway which is also
the worlds longest waterfront path. For all
tramping enthusiasts, there are couple of tracks
around the famous Cypress and Grouse moun-
tains. June to August is the best time to go to
Vancouver.
S
o, all the people looking for an adven-
turous holiday should stop looking for
a destination and must visit this spectacu-
lar city this year.
Getting there Direct flight
from Auckland (13 hours) with Air
New Zealand. So choose one of the destinations
above and call us on our toll-free no. at 0800
224 7365 for some amazing flight deals.
Happy Winters!
 2

FEATURES 25

RECIPES
The Indian Weekender Friday, July 28, 2017

V E G E TA R I A N
Aloo Matar
A warming potato and pea curry, gently
flavaoured with whole cumin seed
A
simple, wholesome Aloo Matar works well when everything else fails. It is popular in
North India and considered a favorite comfort food. Potatoes are inexpensive and readily
available. Just a few carefully selected spices adds a twist to a classic pea and potato
combination.
66 | Indias Most Wanted Recipies Ruby Dhillon

1 tsp ginger paste

Preparation Time: 5 Min 1/2 tsp green chilli paste Blend the onion to make a fine paste using Add potatoes, peas and salt to the masala,
Cooking Time: 35 Min 1/2 tsp red chilli powder a food processor (or grate them). along with with 1 cup of the water, and mix
Serve: 4 1/2 tsp tumeric powder In a heavy-bottomed pan heat oil on a well. Cover and cook until the potatoes are
Taste: Medium 1 large tomato medium heat. soft and the peas are cooked.
2 cups water or as required Add cumin seeds and asafoetida; when the Sprinkle over the garam masala powder,
INGREDIENTS 1/2 tsp garam masala powder cumin seeds start to crackle, add the onion mix well (if the gravy becomes thick then
Salt to taste paste and saut until light-brown in colour. add more water, 1/4 cup at a time). Add
2 medium potatoes 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves, finely Add garlic and ginger paste, saut for salt to taste
3/4 cup peas chopped to garnish. another minute. Garnish with chopped coriander.
1 medium onion Add green chilli paste, stir, add red chilli Serve hot with Jeera Rice or Roti
3 Tbls oil powder and turmeric, stir again (turn the
1/2 tsp cumin seeds METHOD
flame down so that the spices dont burn). Ruby's Tip: You can add more or less
1 pinch of asafoetida Wash, peel and dice the potatoes. Rinse Add chopped tomato and saut for 23 water to adjust the dishs consistency to your
1 tsp garlic paste peas and keep aside. minutes until oil surfaces. preference

PARENTING
Fathers involvement can Make shared parenting mandatory: Activists
help kids stay in shape A
ctivists, fighting for shared parenting The central government has to introduce
in case of divorce or separation, a bill in the ensuing session of Parliament on
demanded a law to make shared shared parenting with necessary amendments in

F
athers involvement in caregiving is parenting mandatory seeking punishment for guardianship and custody laws as recommended
linked to decreased likelihood that parents who disobey the court orders regarding by the Law Commission irrespective of the
children would develop childhood child visitation. childs gender, he said.
obesity, says a study. Ahead of Fathers Day, we are demanding The two laws the Guardians and Wards
The researchers found that fathers implementation of the Law Commission of Act of 1890 and the Hindu Minority and
participation in physical child care activities India 2015 report that provides equal legal Guardianship Act of 1956 at present decide
like bathing and dressing children or taking status and joint custody of the children to the custody of children in divorce cases.
them outside for walks and playtime was "There both parents, Kumar V. Jahgirdar, founder
According CRISP estimates, more than
associated with reduced likelihood that is growing and president of the Child Rights Initiative for
25,000 divorce cases are pending in family
their children would become obese evidence of the Shared Parenting (CRISP), said
courts in Bangalore alone. In the country, the
from age 2 to 4. importance of fathers involvement is seen as more He said the joint custody of a child has to be
figure totals over 500,000.
There is growing evidence of the involvement in raising important.Fathers have noted made mandatory by reforming family laws.
importance of fathers involvement feeling neglected during visits She said there is need for change in the
children in other Bengaluru-based CRISP whose activists
in raising children in other areas of with their childs pediatrician from its regional chapters in Chandigarh, existing laws on rights of grandparents along
areas of childrens
childrens development. development. according to the researchers. New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai with the fathers.
"Our study suggests there may be The findings suggest that Jahgirdars NGO has also been demanding a
and Lucknow will observe silent protests and
benefits to child health as well, said lead encouraging fathers to increase their separate union ministry for children and to de-
awareness campaigns on International Fathers
author of the study, Michelle Wong, from involvement with raising children and including link from the existing Ministry of Women and
Day that falls on every third Sunday of June
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public fathers in childhood obesity prevention Child Development since the objectives of both
(June 18 this year) is pushing for reforms in
Health, Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, efforts may help reduce obesity risk among y
family laws. Jahgirdar, who is seeking adequate women and children are different.
Maryland. The study, published in the journal oung children. The researches hope for future
paternity leave just like women, said these days It is seeking an end to discrimination
Obesity, used data from a survey conducted in studies to understand the relative caregiving
a nationally representative sample of children involvement of both mothers and fathers when both parents are working, the role of the between maternal grandparents and paternal
in the US. Current parenting childhood obesity to formulate methods to better tackle the father in nurturing a child has become all the grandparents and has demanded that family
interventions primarily target mothers as their obesity epidemic. more important. courts treat both equally.

Kids who follow their interests build a happier tomorrow: Survey

A
majority of parents feel their childs
interest was a reflection of their
happiness, reveals a survey.
The survey, conducted by Pinwi (Play-
Interest-Wise), a data driven app for child
development and smart parenting, revealed a
growing awareness that focussing on a childs
interest vis--vis performance from an early
age can lead to nurturing activities that can
ensure happier adults tomorrow.
On a sample size of over 800 respondents
across India, 73 per cent of the parents felt
their childs interest was a reflection of their
happiness; 16 per cent linked interest to hobbies
and 11 per cent to aptitude.
Further findings revealed: 54 per cent parents
had somewhat of an idea about their childs
interests, while 20 per cent did not know what
their childrens true interests were and the rest
26 per cent said they have a good idea about the
interests of their child.
Rachna Khanna, founder and CEO, Pinwi,
said: The findings of the survey throw up a vital
point that while parents place a lot of emphasis
on their childs interest they are constantly
struggling to keep up with the ever evolving
activities that are more performance driven,
interests of the child as these keep changing
with age, time and social dynamics. Parents
rely on their instinctive understanding of their
childrens interests, which is loosely based on
day-to-day observations and clues they pick up
during their interactions with them.
She also pointed out that one pursues
then earns education degrees out of peer
pressure, and usually takes up a career that is in
demand but not always as per their liking.
Most people you meet will say they would
have picked a different career path, given a
choice. It is no surprise then that while these
decisions fulfil us in the short run, in the
long run they only lead to dissatisfaction and
professional fatigue, she said.
 26 ENTERTAINMENT Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

AUCKLANDS HOTTEST BOLLYWOOD STATION

Sonam: I learnt from my parents that
best friends make
the best couples

S
onam Kapoor recently walked
the ramp for Abu Jani and
Sandeep Khosla in the capital
for their bridal show and won

Arjun Kapoor:
hearts instantly. Earlier, she was the
showstopper for Ralph and Russo,
where she stole the limelight wearing
an ivory gown.
Recently, during an interaction
with a daily, Sonam was asked
I am very proud that I hail from the film about her favourite rituals in

fraternity, I am never apologetic about it

Indian weddings.
To which she stated, "The best

A
rjun Kapooris currently gearing up for the release of his part has to be the coming together
movie Mubarakan which also stars Anil Kapoor, Ileana of friends and families under
DCruz and Athiya Shetty. one roof to celebrate. I also love
When a leading daily asked the actor if he is scared of being how couples write passages or
tagged as a metrosexual hero, Arjun replied, I dont think I have vows for one another and read
been tagged as a metrosexual hero.Half Girlfrienddid well in them out I think its really
UP, Bihar, Rajasthan and Indore.Gundayalso did well in those meaningful and beautiful.
regions.Ishaqzaadewas a pan-India success at that point. Besides that, I love everything
He added, I am always trying to meander my way into about shringar andmehandi,
every household in India. I want to be a pan India hero. Thats how along with all the games that
you can survive. one plays during different
When you have survived for four or five years and have a body ceremonies." The fashion icon
of work, you should only look towards making more inroads. also spoke about her parents
You cannot be stuck in personas of being massy, urban, classy, Anil and Sunita Kapoor
sophisticated or rustic. These are tags that you can break. saying, "Yes, they are really
On not being completely Bollywoodised, the actor revealed, cool and always in sync
I am very proud that I hail from the film fraternity. I am with one another."
neverapologeticabout it. That doesnt mean that there arent other She further added,
facets to my personality. I am a well-rounded person, not just "They let us choose
physically (laughs). our own paths. They
Would Arjun ever take up a movie that portrays are, in fact, my role
womenderogativelyand Arjun stated, Films mirror society. models for a picture
When you read about a character, if its not written with a particular perfect marriage. I
agenda, say where they not purposely trying to malign the opposite have always modelled
sex and the journey brings about a catharsis, then it makes sense. them as an ideal couple and
If a film is derogatory towards women, I wont affiliate myself learnt from them that best friends
with it. That is not the reality I would like to put out in the world, make the best couples. More than
he added. that, I also have learnt that wedding
I
There are many times when it is said that Bollywood has a is not as important as a successful
am very
heavy influence on the masses. On this, the actor got candid marriage." Sonam was also asked
proud that I hail from
and said, If we, as filmmakers and creative people, start about her definition of a bride, she
the film fraternity. I am
becoming the do-gooders and the cleansers of society, it said, "A happy bride is the best bride.
neverapologeticabout it.
means that the infrastructure of our government has let I think someone whos happy and
That doesnt mean that there
us down drastically. excited to start her new life is always
arent other facets to my
Do you mean to say that we are the only cause for a quintessential bride."
personality. I am a well-
everything bad that happens in the country? If that is the Meanwhile, on the work front,
rounded person, not just
case, then there is a fundamental flaw in the system. Sonam will next be seen in Veere
physically
Directed by Anees Bazmee,Mubarakanis slated to release Di Wedding, PadMan and Sanjay
today, July 28. Dutt biopic.

Raj Kapoor greatest influence in my life: Anil Kapoor

A
ctor-producer Anil Kapoor says presented heroines better than Raj Kapoor. property to make films what we wanted to
late legendary actor-filmmaker Raj His films music and background make, and thats what me and Boney are and
Kapoor has had the greatest influence score was also so unbelievable. He was always will be till our dying day.
on his life. absolutely extraordinary. Anil and Boney also have a brother named
During the promotion of his upcoming "A true Indian filmmaker who believed in Sanjay Kapoor.
film Mubarakan when actor Arjun Kapoor presenting heroines so beautifully. I dont Asked about the naughtiest one among all
asked Anil about his greatest influence in the think there is anybody who has presented their the three brothers during their childhood, Anil
entertainment industry, Anil said: Without heroines so well than Raj Kapoor. So for me, said: I was the naughtiest kid among all my
any discussion it has to be Raj Kapoor. he is the greatest influence on my life from the brothers. Boney and Sanjay used to get caught
He is the greatest showman, fantastic Indian film industry, Anil said. by our parents, but I never
entertainer, great director and his films used to Meanwhile, Anil said he and his brother, used to get caught after
be really entertaining. producer Boney Kapoor, are more than doing mischief.
A
All his films have such true Indian brothers. Sanjay was the
recall value that they are filmmaker who believed We are more than brothers, most decent one
still so much relevant in in presenting heroines so we are like friends. Its a bond among us and Boney
todays times as well. beautifully. I dont think there is which is difficult to describe. and I used to fight
Be it films like Shri anybody who has presented their We both started our career a lot and he used to
420, Awaara, Mera heroines so well than Raj Kapoor. at the same time. We made hit me very often
Naam Joker, Bobby and So for me, he is the greatest some good films together. but his contribution
many more. influence on my life from the "We together gave all in my career has
Anil said no one Indian film industry, our blood, sweat, money and been tremendous.
 Celebrating HIGH COMMISSION
OF INDIA
the spirit of
70-year-old
NEW ZEALAND

young Indias
independence

WHERE TRADITION MEETS MODERN

Friday 18th Aug 6pm onwards

at Bharat Bhavan
Kilbirnie,Wellington
Sunday 20th Aug 3pm onwards
at Mahatma Gandhi Center
Kingsland, Auckland

Supported by
 28 FEATURES

Kangana finds Saifs open

Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

Priyanka to
be honoured
letter on nepotism disturbing at Toronto
International
A
ctress Kangana Ranaut, who started
the nepotism debate by labelling
I fail to
filmmaker Karan Johar as its flag Film Festival
T
bearer during his chat show, says she found he Toronto
the open letter by her Rangoon co-star Saif Ali
Khan on the subject disturbing.
understand Interna-

how
tional Film
A day after Saif shared his views on Festival (TIFF) will
the debate, Kangana wrote an open letter,
you can
honour actress Pri-
published on Saturday in the Mid-day tabloid.
yanka Chopra at
While I enjoyed some of the perspectives
on this subject, I did find a few disturbing
ones. This morning, I woke up to one such
compare its annual soiree on
September 6, the
open letter, written by Saif Ali Khan,
she wrote.
genetically day before the event
kicks off with its
The last time I was deeply pained and
upset about this issue was when Karan Johar
hybrid opening night film.
Helping kick off
wrote a blog on it, and even once declared in
an interview that there are many criteria for
racehorses its 42nd edition,
the gala at Bell
excelling in film business. Talent is not one
of them. Kangana said: I dont know if he
to Lightbox
feature Priyanka in
will

was being misinformed, or simply nave, but

to discredit the likes of Dilip Kumar, K. Asif,
Bimal Roy, Satyajit Ray, Guru Dutt, and
many more, whose talent and exceptional
abilities have formed the spine of
our contemporary film business, is
absolutely bizarre.
Before addressing her letter to
Dear friend Saif, she wrote: My
request is that people must not
misconstrue this and pit us against
each other. This is just a healthy
exchange of ideas, and not a clash
between individuals.
In your letter you mentioned that, I
apologised to Kangana, and I dont owe
anyone any explanation, and this issue is over.
But this is not my issue alone.
She said nepotism, on many levels, fails
the test of objectivity and rationale. I have
acquired these values from the ones who have
found great success and discovered a higher
truth, much before me. These values are in the
public domain, and no one has a copyright on
them. So, we owe an explanation to everyone
who either owns, or wants to own these values.
Like I said, we are the ones who will shape the
artistes
future of the coming
generations.
Referring to
another part of Saifs
letter, she wrote: You
talked about the relationship
between genetics and star kids,
where you emphasised on nepotism being an
investment on tried and tested genes...I fail to
understand how you can compare genetically
hybrid racehorses to artistes!
Are you implying that artistic skills, hard-
work, experience, concentration spans,
enthusiasm, eagerness, discipline and love,
can be inherited through family genes? she
asked. If your point was true, I would be
a farmer back home. I wonder which gene
from my gene-pool gave me the keenness to
observe my environment, and the dedication to
interpret and pursue my interests.
She also said: You also spoke of eugenics
which means controlled breeding of the
human race. So far, I believe that the human
race hasnt found the DNA that can pass on
greatness and excellence.
If it had, we wouldve loved to repeat the
greatness of Einstein, Da Vinci, Shakespeare,
Vivekananda, Stephen Hawking, Terence Tao,
Daniel Day-Lewis, or Gerhard Richter.
The subtext of all her discussions on this
subject has been to encourage outsiders to take
the path less travelled, she said in her open
letter in mid-day.
If you dont find acceptance in the
mainstream, go off beat -- there are so many
ways of doing the same thing, she wrote.
conversation with
festival artistic
director Cameron
Bailey. Shes
expected to talk
about her career as
a Bollywood icon
before segueing into
Hollywood, reports hollywoodreporter.com.
The Quantico actress made her Hollywood
debut with Baywatch, after bringing her
Bollywood films like Mary Kom and
Whats Your Raashee to the festival in 2014
and 2009.
Priyanka joined Selma director Ava
DuVernay and fellow actors James Franco and
Ben Richardson as part of a short films jury for
a TIFF competition last year.
Toronto is also honouring Priyanka for her
activism. She also devotes time to Unicef as a
goodwill ambassador.
Proceeds from the gala will help fund talent
development programmes at the Canadian
festival to get more women behind and in front of
the camera.The Toronto International Film
Festival is set to run from September 7-17.

Film industry has taught me lot of patience: Taapsee

A
ctress Taapsee Pannu, who has impressed many with
her strong willed and fearless woman characters in films
like Pink and Naam Shabana, says the film industry has
changed her a lot as a person as she can kind of take a lot
of non-sense I think it (film industry) has changed me quite
a bit, Tapsee said when asked how she has transformed as an
individual over the years after entering the industy.
From being extremely impulsive, short tempered or the
person who used to be over planned in a way that I never used to
believe in taking risks...now, I have totally changed. I used to say
no before even trying anything, but now I have at least started
to believe in never say never and that anything can happen in
life, she said.
I have started being more experimental so, I have changed
quite a bit, especially in terms of patience. I think this industry
has taught me lot of patience as I used to be extremely
short tempered. But now, I can kind of take a lot of non-sense,
added the actress at the launch of American performance and
lifestyle footwear brand Skechers 90th store at Ambience Mall
in Gurugram. Taapsee, who made her acting debut with a south
Indian film, has made a name in Bollywood with movies like
Baby, Pink and Naam Shabana. After becoming a part of these
hard-hitting films, the actress is now set to add some glamour
quotient to her filmography with David Dhawans directorial
Judwaa 2.
She says the film, a remake of Salman Khans 1997
released Judwaa, is going to add a lot to her career.
People will see me in a totally different look and
they are going to realise that I can probably
pull off something which is as different
as this (Judwaa 2) compared to what I have
done before.My Hindi audience hasnt really seen
the glamorous side of me so, probably for me, it will
be exciting to see the reaction of the audience after they see me sentiments.Giving reference of Skechers,
in this film, she said. But its not a forced step to show the she said: I am very sport active person. I
world that she can do different kinds of films. love playing different types of sports so, I
Its not just to show everyone that I can do different stuff, but really enjoy wearing these type of shoes
also for myself because as an actor you can get drained out if you (sneakers). Its just an easy way of
keep on doing same kind of stuff. I really want to switch gears going around the city because you are
and try different things, genres and roles so that I can refresh as walking a lot.
an actor and keep exploring different sides of my personality The colours and designs they
also, said Taapsee. So are we going to see her doing more such have is amazing. They also have
films after Judwaa 2, an action comedy? street wear collection which is
She said: I am going back to do some really serious hard- up-to-date with fashion so, you
hitting genre which I am lately associated with. So I will go are not only comfortable but
back to that because that has given me the image I have today. I you can be fashionable
would like to continue with that. I want to do something really too.
substantial and hard-hitting, said
the actress.
Its not just films,
the actress is also
getting a lot of brand
endorsements. She
feels that just like
her films, she
chooses brand
deals as well
if it echoes
with her
 FEATURES

Kiwi-Indian among top-20 finalists

30 Friday, July 28, 2017 The Indian Weekender

for Miss Universe NZ 2017

SWATI SHARMA IWK: How are you preparing for Miss

A
nother young woman is making our
community proudby representing it
on the national stage. India-born Kiwi
Tuljai Parker is one of the top 20 finalists for
this years Miss Universe NZ (MUNZ), and is
preparing hard for the national beauty pageant.
In a conversation with The Indian Weekender,
she revealed more about herself, her values,
interests and the pool party. Here are a
few excerpts:
IWK: For those who dont know
about you, how would you introduce
yourself ?:
Tuljai Parker: It has been a long and beautiful
journey since coming to New Zealand 19
years back. I came to NZ when I was two. My
parents, who are both PhDs in science, came
here for a better lifestyle. They tell me stories
of their struggle during the first year.
But they had the will to be successful and to
take charge of their life. Slowly they worked
their way up, and now we are settled in
Palmerston North.
However, life has not been very smooth, as
my parents were often working in different
cities most of the time, due to their professions.
My dad often jokes that this is the secret to
their long-lasting marriage. My mum is the
one who built my confidence, who helped me
become a versatile and multifaceted woman
and who made me believe as a kid that I could
do anything I put my mind to. This is why I
am here today, representing New Zealand at a
national event.
IWK: How has been your life growing
up in New Zealand?
TP: I relate to several cities of New Zealand.
We briefly lived in Auckland for about a
year, moved to Palmerston North for about
two years, and then settling in Hamilton for
almost fourteen years where I completed all
my schooling.
During my Year 13 at school, mum was
transferred to Palmy. After school, I had
considered different careers like medicine,
engineering, flying and architecture. I chose
engineering and innovation management at
Massey. Given the opportunities in Auckland,
later I decided to move to Albany by myself.
My junior years in school I was involved in
several extracurricular activities so that I could
have a more rounded personality. I achieved
junior black belt in Kyokushin karate, played
violin as a member of the Waikato Youth
Orchestra, participated in several cultural
multifaceted and has several
activities such as dance and drama with Indian
associations, did indoors rock-climbing, learnt
swimming and tried out various other activities.
I am presently in my final year (i.e.Year
Four honours) of Engineering and Innovation
management. I am quite looking forward to
completing the degree and using my knowledge
to help start-ups or established companies bring
new products to the world market.
IWK: How do you feel about being an
Indian in a foreign land?
TP: I think we all should be proud of our
culture and heritage. Indian culture is unique
and shows an amazing unity in diversity. India
and Indians have, for centuries, contributed
to the good of the world. I like my Indian
heritage, and I am also mindful of recognising
Kiwi ethics and values. I can speak a bit of
Hindi (learned from movies and when I did my
internship at Siemens in Mumbai) and Marathi
(from my dad and grandparents) and am almost
fluent in Tamil, my mother tongue. But at
home we speak English which is a common
language for all three of us. I plan to learn a
Universe NZ?
TP: I am organising a Charity Fund Raiser in
the form of The Pool Party at QBEs Albany
Stadium Pools on Saturday, 5 August. This
Tuljai Parker being a community fundraiser, I have made it
a family event. 50 per cent of the money raised
will go to Varietythe Childrens Charity
foreign language possibly French or to support underprivileged Kiwi kids in need
German over this year. and 50 per cent will support my journey in
Miss Universe NZ. Tickets are only $10. So I
IWK: Have you always wanted to
be in beauty pageants? would urge everyone to please contact me for
TP: Would you believe if I said, I had tickets. Keep those votes coming, donate to the
never worn any makeup except lip gloss charities and help me win this. Check me out
or the occasional lipstick until my audition at on Facebook @TuljaiParkerMUNZ
MUNZ semi-final round? I believe in inner Appeal to the Indian community:
beauty which is another virtue instilled in me As the only Indian in this competition
by my family. Of course, I will have to be made to have reached the finals, I need the help
camera and audience ready for the competition and support from all my Indian community
and will adorn the necessary makeup then. But members. I make a strong appeal to go to my
I will leave this in the hands of the professional Facebook page, vote for me and also contribute
experts from MUNZ who did a fantastic job to the Variety Childrens charity from the link
on my face during the semi-finals. Thanks to on my page. Votes cost a dollar and from every
Samala Cosmetics. I am confident they will bundle of five votes, one dollar will be donated
present me in the best manner for the finals to charity. Donate here:http://bit.ly/2pIc5zs
too.
IWK: How do
you represent
the Indian
community?
TP: A woman is
dimensions.
As an Indian-born Kiwi,
I represent values that
Indians hold high, such as
respect for elders, focus
on education, tolerance,
family first, enjoy all festive
celebrations, and adore our
culture and century-old
traditions. I am proud of my
heritage and acknowledge
this fact.
On the other hand, I have
been raised in Aotearoa /
New Zealand which also
has very good values such as
honesty, integrity, empathy,
gratitude and kindness.
Therefore, I represent us all.
Every New Zealander, no
matter where you are and
what you do, if you agree
with any of my values, then
I represent you.

Weber Bros
Circus:Adrenaline
Date: Friday, July 21 onwards until
Saturday, August 5
Time: 2-3 sessions everyday
starting 1 p.m.
Venue: English Ellerslie
Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave,
Remuera, Auckland
Adrenaline opens at Ellerslie
Racecourse on 6th July where the
show will run for five weeks before
coming to an end with a final matinee
performance on Sunday, August
6 with at 12 p.m. Dates include
matinees during school holidays,
twice at weekends. Adrenaline is a
fistful of fun for the whole family, with
extreme stunts, hilarious acts and
daring moments that will have you
on the edge of your seats. Acts such
as The Globe of Death, FMX and
the show-stopping Human Cannon,
along with fantastic dancers, stunning
outfits and entertainers for kids of
every age.
CAB Pakuranga/
Eastern Manukau
Date: Saturday, August 5
Time: 9.30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Venue: Howick Local Board
Meeting Room, Pakuranga Library
Building, 7 Aylesbury Street,
Pakuranga
CAB Pakuranga/Eastern Manukau will
hold a free information sessions for
newcomers on Career Counselling.
This session will cover CV writing,
Cover letters, Interview preparation
skills, Job search tools, The session
facilitated by Janine Comer and
will be followed by a talk on what
employers are looking for by Amelie
Lecomte from Kelly Services and one
of the representatives of Work and
Income will explain how they can help
in Job Search. Lunch will be provided.
Please confirm your by phoning or
texting Vani Kapoor at 021 459250 or
email at settlement.pakuranga@cab.
org.nz (registration starts on Monday
17 July)
Cab Nelson
Date: Thursday, August 3
Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Venue:Elmer Turner Library, 27
Halifax St, Nelson Central
CAB Nelson will hold a free
information session for newcomers
on Employment Matters
The topics will cover Self-employment
and setting up small businesses in
New Zealand, Immigration issues
relating to self-employment and
small businesses, Tax obligations,
Personal stories from migrants and
newcomers. Complimentary drinks
and finger food provided. For more Finding Employment in New Zealand.
information call Hilary Clifton at CAB Join us to learn how to prepare your
Nelson Tasman on 03 548 2117 or Curriculum Vitae and Cover Letter for
emailcoordinator.nelsontasman@cab. New Zealand workplace. Bring your
org.nz or just come along. draft CV, letter and the advertisement
for your preferred job and you will get
a hands-on training. Facilitated by
CAB New Lynn Adon Kumar and staff from Citizens
Advice Bureau New Lynn. Lunch
Date: Saturday, July 29
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
provided. To register please drop
in, call or email at Citizens Advice
Venue: English Language Partners, Bureau New Lynn, Library Building,
Level 1, 3091 Great North Road,
3 Memorial Drive, New Lynn. Phone
New Lynn
CAB New Lynn is holding a free
827 7830 or 827 4731, Email:
newlynn@cab.org.nz
information session for newcomers on
Immigration Translation Centre
Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, Urdu, Sinhalese, Arabic, etc.
Accurate, professional, prompt service by accredited translators.
Approved by LTSA/AA/Immigration New Zealand.
Birth/Marriage/Police Clearance Certificates, Diplomas, Letters, etc.
181 Hobson Street Auckland City 09-3570922, 021-488-525
Email: dsoh@ymail.com
 The Indian Weekender
NON-SMOKERS TOO AT RISK
FROM SECOND-HAND SMOKE
A
ban on smoking in public
places came into effect
across India eight years
ago, but India still remains home to
12 per cent of the world's smokers
and they, with their second-hand
smoke, pose a threat to those who
don't smoke.
Healthy non-smokers exposed
to second-hand tobacco smoke are
at an increased risk of developing
coronary atherosclerosis, warns
a senior cardiologist from New
Delhi, citing earlier findings
which new studies have bolstered.
Investigators have observed a dose-
response relationship between
second-hand smoke exposure and
atherosclerosis as documented by
CT angiography, said Dr (Col) Anil
Dhall, Director of Cardiovascular
Sciences at Venkateshwar Hospital in
New Delhi.
The "extent and importance
of second-hand tobacco smoke
exposure as a major global health
issue cannot be overestimated",
say researchers.
In their analysis, low-to- moderate
and high exposure to second-hand
smoke remained major risk-markers.
Indeed, it appeared to be a more
powerful predictor of coronary
atherosclerosis than traditional
risk factors such as diabetes,
For more information about how we can provide health insurance for you and your
family please contact advisers@nib.co.nz or speak with your financial adviser.
Friday, July 28, 2017
hyperlipidemiaan elevation of
one or more fat proteins in the
blood; commonly referred to as high
cholesteroland hypertension.
The findings were based on data
compiled by the National Cancer
Institute and the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention in the US.
The data showed second-hand
smoke as an important modifiable
risk-factor for cardiovascular and
other diseases.
Second-hand exposure remains
Health insurance
designed for you
under- appreciated as
a risk factor amongst
doctors and patients,
and is something that
needs to be looked at in
people's medical history and
is really not asked that often,
researchers said.
Atherosclerosissometimes
called hardening of the arteries
can also slowly narrow the arteries
throughout the body. When
FEATURES 31
The analysis showed that individuals
exposed to low-to- moderate
levels of second-hand smoke were
approximately two times more likely
to develop atherosclerosis compared
with those who had minimal second-
hand smoke exposure.
For those exposed to high levels
of second-hand smoke, the risk of
atherosclerosis was 3.5 times higher
when compared with those exposed
to minimal second-hand smoke.
Dr Dhall listed measures
that can be adopted to protect
oneself and one's family from
second-hand smoke:
Quitting smoking if you are not
already a non-smoker;
atherosclerosis Not allowing anyone to smoke
a f f e c t s anywhere in or near your home;
coronary Not allowing anyone to smoke
arteries, it in your car, even with the
becomes windows down;
the No.1 Making sure your children's
killer. daycare centre and schools are
M o s t tobacco-free;
of those Seeking out restaurants and
deaths are other places that do not allow
from heart smoking;
attacks caused by Teaching your children to stay
blood clots. away from second-hand smoke;
In a study using CT angiography, and
the presence of any coronary calcified Being a good role model by not
plaque was significantly associated smoking or using any other type
with second-hand smoke exposure. of tobacco.
nib8048_0717