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# 1 Indian American Weekly: Since 2006 VOL 13 ISSUE 01 ● NEW YORK / DALLAS ● JANUARY 04 - 10, 2019 ● ENQUIRIES: 646-247-9458 www.theindianpanorama.news
THE INDIAN PANORAMA 2 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019
# 1 Indian American Weekly: Since 2006
VOL 13 ISSUE 01 ● NEW YORK / DALLAS ● JANUARY 04 - 10, 2019 ● ENQUIRIES: 646-247-9458 www.theindianpanorama.news
WE WISH OUR READERS
AAPI’s Historic Global Healthcare Summit
2018 in Mumbai Concludes with
Nancy Pelosi is Speaker
for a second time
Commitment to Give Back to Mother India
Urging AAPI to bring in traditional Indian wellness practices to modern medical systems,
House Speaker
Nancy Pelosi President describes "AAPI as a link between two vibrant and democratic societies"
holds the gavel
Thursday , MUMBAI /NEW YORK (TIP): The 12th
January 3 during edition of the annual Global Healthcare
the opening Summit at the glamour capital of India,
session of the Mumbai concluded here on December 30th
116th Congress with Physicians of Indian Origin
rededicating themselves to work and
collaborate towards bringing in high quality,
WASHINGTON (TIP): As expected, innovative, preventable, cost-effective ways
Democrats exhibited great unity and to the delivery of healthcare to millions of
elected Rep Nancy Pelosi D-Calif., as the people in India. contd on Page 7
speaker of the House on Thursday, January President of India Ram Nath Kovind
3 for a second time, as Democrats took delivering inaugural address at the 12th
control of the lower chamber. Annual Health Care Summit of AAPI in
contd on Page 66 Mumbai, December 28.
China develops its own 'Mother Sen. Elizabeth Warren has announced she will Trump-Imran summit proposal being
of All Bombs', says report seek the presidency in 2020 discussed: Pak official P-26
BEIJING (TIP): China has CAMBRIDGE, MASS (TIP): Sen. Elizabeth
developed a massive bomb, Warren, Democratic Senator of Massachusetts, has
said to be the country's answer announced her likely candidacy for the 2020 U.S.
Consulate General of
to the US-built 'Mother of All presidential race. In her statement she put racial and India in New York hosts
Bombs', the most powerful non- gender-based inequality front and center in her PBD and World Hindi
nuclear weapon, official media campaign agenda, as much as income inequality
reported on Friday, January 4. faced by the middle class. For these ills of the
Day celebrations on
China's defense industry giant NORINCO for the first American economy, she blamed the excesses of January 12
time showcased the aerial bomb, the country's largest non- under-regulated Wall Street corporations and
nuclear bomb, state-run Global Times reported. billionaires with the money muscle to bend political
P-12
It is dubbed as the Chinese version of the 'Mother of All rules. Although Ms. Warren, who won a second six- Massachusetts Sen. Indian Consulate in New
Bombs' due to its huge destruction potential that is year Senate term in November, had declined to enter Elizabeth Warren is the
claimed to be only second to nuclear weapons, the daily the 2016 general election and challenge Hillary first Democratic leader to
York to celebrate 550th
said. The bomb was airdropped by an H-6K bomber and Clinton in the Democratic primary, she made a name announce she will seek Birth Anniversary of
presidency in 2020.
caused a gigantic explosion, showed a promotional video for herself as a top-tier Democrat by taking on Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji
released by China North Industries Group Corporation President Donald Trump, describing him as a "thin- Photo/ Elizabeth Warren
Limited (NORINCO) contd on Page 66 skinned racist bully". contd on Page 66 website P-12
THE INDIAN PANORAMA 4 MESSAGES FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019
THE INDIAN PANORAMA
FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019 MESSAGES 5
Patrick Ryder
Commissioner of Police
Nassau County, New York
As Nassau County Commissioner of Police and on
behalf of the entire police department, I would like
to wish all of Nassau's Indian-American residents
a very happy and healthy New Year.
It is with great distinction and honor that I compose this letter as I have
great fondness and respect for the members of The Indian Panorama
Newspaper and the entire Indian community. As I continue to meet and
develop more professional relationships with our Indian residents, I am
always in admiration of the bonds and community commitment that has
been shown. Family, friends and long lasting bonds in your
communitycreate positive interactions that I greatly value.
As we continue our friendships, both professional and casual, we must
be able to educate and learn from each other to create an even stronger
bond. We need to keep our dialogue open and be able to voice any
concerns we may have to create and continue with a cohesive
atmosphere. I can't thank the Indian community enough for their
continued support of law enforcement and the Nassau County Police
Department.
Sincerely,
Harpreet Singh Toor Patrick Ryder
Chairman for public policy & external affairs
The Sikh Cultural Society, Inc. New York
Saleem Iqbal
President & CEO
HAB BANK, New York
MESSAGE
On the occasion of Holidays and the arrival of New Year, I would like to
congratulate the Editor and the readers of The Indian Panorama, one
of the most read English newspapers in USA, a Very Happy and
Prosperous New Year. Message
This change of year gives us all a time to pause and think of what we
did and what we could have done to make this world a better place. All On behalf of HAB BANK, I would like to extend our joyous greetings on
of us have a capability in our own ways to do something based on our New Year 2019.
knowledge and capabilities. We should do this without pre-judging the May the New Year bring peace, joy, and prosperity to the entire Indian
people or what he or she did to me. In Sikhism, where service to the American Community living and working in the tri-state area.
humans is given a top priority, we need to look at it as a blessing. As we celebrate the beginning of New Year, let us hope that it brings
The New Year should be a milestone for us to set a target how I am along new opportunities for us to work together and reach new heights
going to make it better not only for myself but for others too. What of success and glory. On this happy occasion, we take pride in our
was there that I could have done and did not do? What should be my achievements as a community in the U.S. despite the challenges that
target? How I should not pre-judge the people and help in whatever lie ahead and pray for prosperity in the New Year.
way I can? HAB BANK, since is inception in 1983 as New York State chartered
The greatest challenge which we face now is the isolation. Yes, bank, has played a vital role in nurturing communities through its
isolation. We do have the social media but what we watch and listen is network of branches in New York, New Jersey, and California. HAB
what we want to watch and listen not what we need to. Hence, we are experienced robust growth during 2018and, with your help, the Bank
falling into a cycle self-grandiose and there is no one to point us out will continue to move forward while adhering to sound and prudent
where, what is wrong or how it should be. banking principles.
Let us commit ourselves to a new year where we will be more open to Thank you for your continued support, trust, and partnership. We look
the ideas, thoughts, freedom of speech, equality as well as maintain forward to working with you in the years to come.
the dignity of life as it should be.
In the end, I wish the readers of The Indian Panorama a Very Happy All My Best
and Prosperous New Year. Saleem Iqbal
Harpreet Singh Toor
THE INDIAN PANORAMA
6 INDIANS ABROAD FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019
Indian-origin Student
wins World Memory
Indian-American’s start-up could
Championship revolutionize the fight against marine litter
LOS ANGELES (TIP): Based in Los
Angeles, 'Moral Fiber' has developed a three-
step chemical process that can extract polyester
from mixed blend materials and will be useful
in recycling other plastics
A start-up by an Indian-American in Los
Angeles can completely change the battle
against marine plastic litter that is plaguing
Indian-origin Singaporean boy Dhruv
the world's oceans at this moment.
Manoj wins two golds at World Memory
Akshay Sethi, a chemistry student from the
Championships
University of California, Davis and co-student,
SINGAPORE (TIP): Dhruv Manoj, a 12- Moby Ahmed started exploring ways to recover
year-old Indian-origin student from polyester, the most common fabric in mass-
Singapore has bagged two gold medals at produced clothing, while studying. They
the World Memory Championship that founded Ambercycle (now 'Moral Fiber') in
was held in Hong Kong. Manoj won the 2015, working initially with microbes to break
title in the 'names and faces' and 'random down polyesters.
words' categories, beating 56 other Moral Fiber has now developed a three-step
contestants in the 'kids' category' in the chemical process that can extract polyester
competition held from December 20-22. from mixed blend materials to create a new
Dhruv has just finished primary school. yarn, billed as the world's first textile product
His wonder magic is that he can memorize made entirely from old clothing. The
more than seven decks of shuffled cards in equipment needed for this transformation can
an hour; 1,155 binary numbers in half that fit into a small shipping container, making it recycling other plastics. "What we've seen so far is you can make a
time; and 87 names and faces in 15 easy to deploy. "We'll start with fabric, but it can process polyester fiber that doesn't shed. You can do it,
minutes. He was the only boy to represent During the process, polyester is extracted at packaging, bottles, containers, films, it's just a question of making it in such a way
Singapore in the competition where over the molecular level from mixed material multilayer packaging. We see this box as the that it's scalable," he says. "We are working on
260 contestants from China, Russia, India, containing the plastic and some cotton, to box that is tailor-made for textiles but in the ways to do that right now. You can't have
Taiwan and Malaysia participated. produce a new yarn. The leftover material is future, we want to make a box for packaging, a materials that go into the oceans and
News agency PTI, in a report, said incinerated to power the pilot plant, but the box for carpets and for all sorts of different biodegrade there and turn into microfibers."
Dhruv has mastered the Roman memory final box could also be powered by solar panels materials," Sethi was quoted as saying by the According to some estimates, as many as 51
technique of creating 'memory places', placed on the roof. The process requires around United Nations Environment Program. trillion microplastic particles-500 times more
which works by associating the ideas or 45-50 amps of power at peak consumption. Sethi sees Moral Fiber as another weapon in than the stars in our galaxy-litter the seas.
objects to be memorizedwith scenes Sethi says the process will be useful in the battle against marine plastic pollution.
(Source: Down to Earth)
imagined at familiar locations, such as
one's house.
Last year, Dhruv broke the children's
category world record in 'Names and
Faces' section of the World Memory
Indian-American Sworn in as Fort Bend
Championship which was held in Jakarta.
He was able to match 96 names to faces
correctly, of the 240 given. The competitors
were given only 15 minutes to memorize
County Judge in Texas
names and faces and 30 minutes to recall According to census, Fort Bend is now the most diverse county in Texas with 35%
and pen their answers.
Anglos, 24% Hispanics, 21% Asians and others.
Indian-American
Doctor Killed by Falling HOUSTON(TIP): Indian-American KP
George sworn in as the Fort Bend County
Tree in Texas Judge, becoming the first person from the
community to hold the office of one of
FORT WORTH, America's most diverse counties.
TX (TIP): An George, 53, a Democrat and Fort Bend
Indian-American Independent School District Board trustee,
pediatrician was defeated Republican Judge Robert Hebert in
killed on December November polls.
27 when a tree fell In the US, county judges' duties vary from
on her while she state to state. Depending upon the size of the
was hiking with her county, they perform a wide range of judicial
family in the Great and administrative duties.
Dr Laila Jiwani had
Smoky Mountains The Fort Bend county has a sizeable
been a doctor with
National Park in population of Indian-Americans.
Cook Children's
T e n n e s s e e , since 2007 According to the latest census, Fort Bend is KP George being sworn in
according to news now the most diverse county in Texas, and
reports. among the most diverse in the country with 35 George said.Rice University professor Mark living in the Fort Bend county ever since
Dr. Laila Jiwani, 42, of Plano, a doctor per cent Anglos, 24 per cent Hispanics, 21 per Jones said George is now the most prominent along with his family.
with Cook Children's, died Thursday, cent Asians and others; and 20 per cent Indian-American to hold an executive "I strongly believe that success in life has
December 27 when she was struck by a tree African-Americans. position in the US government. nothing to do with what you gain in life or
on Porter Creek Trail at the park. Jiwani KP George, who hails from Kerala's Mr George, 33, will govern a county with a accomplish for yourself. It is what you do for
and her husband were hiking in the park Kakkodu city, said his father, a truck driver, larger population and a bigger budget than others," Mr George said.
with their three sons at the time. Her 6- earned only a couple of US dollars a day. He the Indian-American mayors of cities like He first ran for office in 2010, hoping to be
year-old son suffered a broken leg, studied using a kerosene lamp. Anaheim, California and Hoboken, Jones elected as the county treasurer.
according to news reports. Jiwani's He said that community engagement will be said, adding that as a county judge, he wields "People asked me in Richmond and
husband, Taufiq Jiwani, wrote in a the top priority for his administration. more outright power than most mayors. Rosenberg, 'Why are you running?' It's not
Facebook post that doctors said his wife "I will continue spreading the word of While in India, George grew up speaking easy for a person like me, brown in color, with
saved their son by taking the brunt of the county services and involving all people into Malayalam and lived in a straw-thatch hut. no political power, no name recognition. I'd
impact, the Knoxville News Sentinel the process. It is a historic moment for me as When he was 15, his family moved to a bigger say, 'Because I can. I'm not a felon. I'm a
reported. The post has since been deleted. well as for the county. city where he attended college. citizen. Thank you, USA! I hold your values
Jiwani received her medical education "We will continue to have an open-door After his graduation, he got a job in close to my heart.
at New York University School of policy for the most diverse county which Mumbai, where for the first time he started "I honestly believe this is the time for me to
Medicine and was certified by the represents people who speak over 100 speaking English. He worked in the Middle do public service rather than complain. I am
American Board of Pediatrics. languages. We are here to represent each one East before moving to New York in 1993 to taking responsibility to get involved and work
She had been a doctor with Cook of them and ensure a better place for work for a financial firm. for the US, the country that has given me
Children's since 2007. residents and children of this county," Mr Later, he moved to Texas and has been everything I've dreamed of," Mr George added.
THE INDIAN PANORAMA
FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019 NEW YORK 7
AAPI’s Historic Global Healthcare Summit 2018 in Mumbai
Concludes with Commitment to Give Back to Mother India
CONTD FROM PAGE 1 united front for all NRI physicians to develop
The three-day historic event, inaugurated strong and effective programs that can be
by the Honorable President of India on implemented with precision to face the
December 28th at the Taj Palace Hotel in challenges posed by Non Communicable
Mumbai, was for the first time, jointly Diseases (NCDs).
organized by American Association of Dr. Ramesh Mehta, President GAPIO in his
Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) and opening address said that AAPI GHS 2018 is
Global Association of Physicians of Indian the beginning of a strong collaborative
Origin (GAPIO), from December 28th - 30th approach along with the Global Association of
December 2018 at Hotel Trident, Nariman Physicians of Indian origin (GAPIO) that
Point, Mumbai. together will make constructive and tangible
In his inaugural address, the President of ways of ensuring that healthcare is affordable
India said, AAPI is "more than just a platform and accessible to millions of people in India.
of doctors and medical practitioners, the The CEO Forum, addressed by leaders from
Indian President told the nearly 500 delegates Indian Pharmaceutical Companies, including
who had come from around the world to Dr. Preetha Rajaraman, Health Attaché, US
attend the landmark Summit in Mumbai. "It is Government; Dr. Shailesh Ayyangar, MD
a link between two vibrant and democratic Sanofi; Sudarshan Jain. Former MD Abbott;
societies, both of which have addressed major Madan Rohini Krishnan, MD Medtronic
public health challenges in their own way." India; Dr. William Pinsky. President ECFMG;
The Indian President praised AAPI and the Neal Simon, President AUA; DG Shah,
over 100,000 Physicians of Indian Origin in Secretary Indian Pharmaceutical Allianc; Dr.
the United States for their great A section of the audience at the inaugural event of AAPI's GHS 2018 in Mumbai Gurpreet Sandhu, President CHPF; Dr.
contributions. "The professional-ism and Naresh Parikh, President of AAPI; Dr. Vinod
goodwill of Indian doctors in America has Shah, AAPI Past President; Dr. Raj Bhayani,
won them - won you, I should say - a well- Co-Chair, GHS; and, Dr Ravi Jahagirdar,
deserved reputation," he told the AAPI Chairman GHS.
leaders. "In fact, it has occasionally led to The Forum discussed ways to ensure that
diplomatic gains for India for which your lower cost and effective medicines with the
Association must be appreciated." highest quality continue to make India the
The President of India urged AAPI to world leader in this field. The CEO Forum
continue its efforts in the prevention and focused on identifying ways to successfully
management of life-style diseases, diabetes implement "AYUSHMAN BHARAT" - a
and obesity, where physicians of Indian origin brainchild of the Honorable Prime Minister
can bring in "traditional Indian wellness of India, Shri Narendra Modi, whose vision is
practices to modern medical systems. Please to provide quality healthcare to India's billion
see what your Association can do in this area," people - a project that is being watched
he told AAPI delegates AAPI leaders and collaborators recommitting to render India TB Free by 2025 intently across the Globe for emulation, these
Dr. Naresh Parikh, President AAPI in his sessions are designed to complement the
opening remarks, provided an overview of enormous effort by several agencies and
some of the major contributions of the past 11 Government of India, said Anwar Feroz
Summits organized by AAPI. "Over the past 12 Siddiqi, Chief Strategy Adviser , AAPI,
years AAPI physicians have collaborated with Honorary Adviser GAPIO and BAPIO.
several professional medical associations, The Women's Forum had Amruta Fadnavis,
academic institutions, Government of India, First Lady of Maharashtra and Vice President
and have made significant contributions of Axis Bank; Deana Uppal, Entrepreneur &
towards addressing diabetes with the launch Winner Miss India U; Dr. Nandita Palshetkar,
of Sevak program, CPR-AED training for first President FOGSI; Dr. Ratna Jain, Former
responders with expert faculty from the Mayor Kota, Rajasthan; and, Sangita Reddy,
American University of Antigua, Traumatic Executive Director, Joint Managing Director,
Brain Injury - the scourge of young India, and Apollo Hospital Group as panelists. Dr. Asha
development of management guidelines Parikh, Chair, AAPI Women's Forum and Dr.
thereby helping prevent deaths due to road Udaya Shivangi, Vice Chair, AAPI Women's
traffic accidents, raising the importance and Forum led the panelists to a lively discussion
awareness on smoking cessation, Adopt a AAPI leadership with President of India and Maharashtra Chief Minister on ways to prevent and address violence
Village program and taking the initiatives to against women.
make quality healthcare accessible and his wife Dr. Udita Jahagirdar contributed Forum, with focus on stopping violence Building on its collaborative efforts with
universally to village and taluka and district funds towards the Burns Unit Seth G.S. against women and round tables to develop several non-governmental organizations and the
levels, and most recently a strong Medical College and Hospital in Mumbai and practical solutions for strengthening TB Free US-AID, AAPI committed itself to strengthen its
collaborative on making India TB Free with the Unit was dedicated during GHS 2018. India initiative and addressing non- initiatives to "make every city, ever district, every
the signing of a MOU with USAID. Ten city With a view to encourage and recognize communicable diseases," Anwar Feroz, village in India TB free." The planning/review
pilots are well under way and significant research by upcoming generation of AAPI's Strategic Advisor said. session at the GHS was an Introduction and
progress is being made," he told a captive physicians, AAPI organized a Young The many themes chosen for CMEs Review of Building on A Roadmap for a TB-Free
audience. Investigator Research Competition as part of included, Healthcare, Career and Commerce, India - A Combined effort of AAPI and CETI
Packed with strategic planning sessions the GHS 2018at G.S. Medical College and with the focus on Women's Healthcare, under guidance of Government of India, US-AID,
such as the much anticipated CEO Forum, Hospital in Mumbai had several dozens of including high priority areas such as where the progress in the 10 cities, where the
Women's Forum, Launching Free Health participation from Medical Students from Cardiology, Maternal & Child Health, program has been on for several months, was
Clinic, First Responders Training, CMEs, across the nation. Winners were recognized Diabetes, Oncology, Surgery, Mental Health, reviewed through a live webcast from each of
Research Contest, Fashion Show, Cultural and awarded at the Gala on December 28th. HIT, Allergy, Immunology & Lung Health, these 10 cities.
extravaganza, pre and post visits to Kerala Leading Physicians and healthcare Gastroenterology, Transplant and impact of Participants at the strategic planning
and Goa, the GHS 2018 has promised to be one professionals from across the country and comorbidities. session included, Dr. Naresh Parikh MD,
with the greatest impact and significant internationally converged onto Mumbai to Neal Simon, President of AUA commended President of AAPI; Anwar Feroz, AAPI's
contributions towards harnessing the power further the exchange of knowledge and best the efforts of AAPI and its collaboration with Strategic Advisor; Dr. Salil Bhargava, CETI;
of international Indian diaspora to bring the practices on recent global medical advances, The American University of Antigua (AUA) Reuben Seamineken from US-AID; Vikas
most innovative, efficient, cost effective to develop vibrant and viable health policy and P D Hinduja Hospital for successfully Sheel, IAS, Joint Secretary of Health, Indian
healthcare solutions to India. agendas, and address growing healthcare conducting First Responders Training, Government; Kush Sachdeva, Deputy
Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Chairman for GHS 2018 challenges. including CPR-AED and BLS for more than Director General of TB, Government of India;
said that with a view to help the delivery of "The focus of the 12th Global Health 150 Mumbai Police Officers on December Dr. Manoj Jain; Dr. Rajesh Deshmukh; and, Dr.
healthcare to millions across the nation, said, Summit was an India-centric approach, with 22nd, 23rd& 24th after successfully completing Thakor G. Patel. AAPI had already launched
"AAPI has capped the voluminous special events such as, Global Impact and training in Jharkhand, Rajasthan and West the TB Free India project in April 2018 in
achievements of the past 37 years with a clear India's contribution in providing cost effective Bengal to provide assistance to accident strong association with Ministry for Health,
vision to move forward taking this noble medicines, addressing global shortages of victims and save lives.=. WHO, CETI, USAID and industry partners
organization and its vision for better healthcare professionals, Young Investigators Dr. Prathap C Reddy, Founder GAPIO has such as Johnson & Johnson and Mylan.
healthcare to newer heights." Dr. Jahagirdar Research contest, Women's Leadership envisioned the evolution of developing a
contd on Page 12
THE INDIAN PANORAMA
8 EDITORIAL FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019
AS I SEE IT
GUEST
COMMENT After the inevitable exit
On Elizabeth Warren's India must be prepared for the potential consequences of withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan
U.S. presidential bid: "Mr. Trump's administration has no doubt been much more welcoming of
Indian investment in Afghanistan, but that itself is symptomatic of his
Democratic hope? desire to pare down "Pax Americana" in every part of the world. The
Elizabeth Warren makes the first move removal or reduction of the U.S. presence from most theatres of action
towards a U.S. presidential bid By Suhasini Haidar has created space for regional players: leaving Syria to Iran and its allies;
Yemen to Saudi Arabia; Afghanistan to players like Russia, Pakistan and
lizabeth Warren, Democratic Senator
E of Massachusetts, has announced her
likely candidacy for the 2020 U.S.
presidential race. Although Ms. Warren, who D
espite the White House's spirited denial
of reports that it has issued no orders
for the pullout of U.S. troops, the course
Iran; and Pakistan to China."
happen. New Delhi was caught off guard in
2010 when Mr. Obama planned the drawdown
won a second six-year Senate term in seems set for a thinning of American presence and discouraged India from a stake in projects
November, had declined to enter the 2016 in Afghanistan. U.S. President Donald Trump there in an effort to placate Pakistan.
general election and challenge Hillary had promised this during his campaign, and Mr. Trump's administration has no doubt
Clinton in the Democratic primary, she made several advisers have said since then that he is been much more welcoming of Indian
a name for herself as a top-tier Democrat by keen to bring back most, if not all, troops investment in Afghanistan, but that itself is
taking on President Donald Trump, before his re-election bid in 2020. If anything, symptomatic of his desire to pare down "Pax
describing him as a "thin-skinned racist Mr. Trump's ill-judged remarks this week only Americana" in every part of the world. The
bully". However, she attracted criticism for an underline his desire to leave: he suggested that removal or reduction of the U.S. presence from
unnecessary controversy over taking a DNA regional players like Russia, India and President Ashraf Ghani in the loop until after most theatres of action has created space for
test to establish her Native American Pakistan should be more involved in the first talks were held in Qatar - this regional players: leaving Syria to Iran and its
heritage, after Mr. Trump used racist epithets stabilizing the situation, and mocked India for reversed the previous U.S. position not to allies; Yemen to Saudi Arabia; Afghanistan to
to provoke and smear her ethnic antecedents. not doing enough. engage the Taliban until it engages the NUG. players like Russia, Pakistan and Iran; and
Notwithstanding that blip, the former As a result, the U.S. war in Afghanistan, that Far from the tough talk on Pakistan for Pakistan to China.
Harvard law professor, who hails from a blue- began as revenge for the 9/11 attacks, evolved support to the Taliban, Mr. Trump wrote a Some other hard truths must be faced: India
collar background in Oklahoma, has into a mission for ensuring democracy and letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan cannot replace Pakistan's position
repeatedly underscored her credentials as a prosperity in Afghanistan. In recent years, thanking him for his efforts. Afghanistan's geographically, nor can it ever offer the U.S. or
champion of multiracial populism. Over the challenged by the resurgence of the Taliban, it High Peace Council members also disclosed any other force what Pakistan has offered in
past year she has sharpened her attack on Mr. has now become a mission mainly to ensure an that Mr. Khalilzad was on a deadline: Mr. the past, including bases and permission for
Trump's politics, arguing that he deflects honorable exit. This isn't the first time the U.S. Trump has reportedly given him six months to U.S. forces to bomb its own territory. The
attention from the impact of his divisive has sought to do this: President Barack Obama show results with the talks process, failing decision to abandon the SAARC in favor of
policies on ordinary American families and had faced similar challenges in 2010, just which the pullout may be speeded up. groupings like BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal
instead blames "other working people, people before he announced the big drawdown. As Mr. The departure from the avowed U.S. position Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and
who are black, or brown, people born Trump now moves to cutting American on an "Afghan-owned, Afghan-led" process has Economic Cooperation), BBIN (Bangladesh,
somewhere else." presence to a few well-guarded military bases, clearly ruffled feathers in Kabul. In December, Bhutan, India, Nepal) and IORA (Indian Ocean
Despite the considerable achievements India must consider the consequences closely. Mr. Ghani appointed two aides of former Rim Association) may have provided some
of Ms. Warren, who had not held public SHIFT IN POLICY: To begin with, it is time President Hamid Karzai known for their short-term returns in "isolating Pakistan", but
office before 2013, the obstacles ahead for to recognize that the U.S.'s South Asia Strategy hardline position on the Taliban and Pakistan it has had the effect of cutting Afghanistan
her proposed presidential run are for Afghanistan, as announced by Mr. Trump as his Defense and Interior Ministers. Putting loose from Indian leadership of South Asia as
formidable. First, the general expectation in August 2017, has been discarded. Mr. Trump the seal on the clear drift in the U.S. well. India's best course with Afghanistan
is that the field for the Democratic had defined the strategy with three features: Afghanistan and South Asia policy from the remains its own regional strategy, not
nomination will widen considerably over that U.S. troops would remain involved in the past was the exit of Defense Secretary James becoming a part of any other country's
through 2019, given that more than three country until "conditions", not a timeline, Mattis, author of the South Asia policy. Mr. strategy. Close bilateral consultations like this
dozen Democratic candidates-in-the- mandated their return; that the U.S. would put Mattis had pushed most strenuously to keep week's visit to Delhi of National Security
making are said to be considering joining Pakistan on notice for its support to the India in the Afghan game by swinging a Advisor Hamdullah Mohib may not always
the race, several of them for the first time. Taliban and a political settlement with the waiver for India on Chabahar and Iran oil yield dramatic headlines but are the basis of
Some, such as Kamala Harris of California Taliban would only follow "after an effective purchases. It remains to be seen whether Mr. India's ability to help Afghanistan according
or Cory Booker of New Jersey, could hold military effort"; and that the policy would Trump will continue those waivers past May to its needs, not India's ambitions, and the
stronger appeal with millennial voters and hinge on further developing the strategic this year. reason for the immense popularity and
people of color. Second, it is hard to predict partnership with India The internal situation in Afghanistan is goodwill India continues to enjoy in
how Ms. Warren will fare against self- Sixteen months later, it is easy to see that aggravated now by the uncertainty of the Afghanistan.
professed Democratic socialist candidate each element of the U.S.'s policy on the ground democratic process. Parliamentary elections Finally, it is necessary to recognize the
Bernie Sanders, or Senator Sherrod Brown has shifted, if not been entirely reversed. The were held in October after being delayed by cyclical nature of interventions in
of Ohio, both economic populists who appointment of special envoy Zalmay more than two years, but even their Afghanistan, which has been called the
could hypothetically cut into her share of Khalilzad in September to lead talks with the preliminary results haven't yet been declared, "graveyard of empires" for forcing all world
voters of a similar ideological persuasion. Taliban after a particularly brutal year shows casting doubt on the government's ability to powers to retreat at some point or the other.
Finally, the risk of pursuing a populist that the U.S. is no longer waiting for military conduct elections. Presidential elections have The words of Rev. George Gleig, a soldier who
theme from the center-left of the political operations to take effect. According to the been postponed till July, despite the survived the First Anglo-Afghan War (1839-42),
spectrum is that she would be an easy Special Inspector General for Afghanistan constitutional clause that they were to be are worth remembering: "A war begun for no
target for Mr. Trump and conservatives, Reconstruction (SIGAR) report to the U.S. completed by April 22, 2019. Meanwhile, Mr. wise purpose, carried on with a strange
who are likely to deride her as an out-of- Congress, casualties of Afghan National and Ghani has been unable to keep his mixture of rashness and timidity, brought to a
touch liberal academic and a threat to free Defense Security Forces (ANDSF) in May- commitment to hold a Loya Jirga (grand close after suffering and disaster, without
enterprise. Nevertheless, as a candidate for September 2018 were the "greatest it has ever council of representatives) to turn Chief much glory attached either to the government
the nation's highest office, Ms. Warren's been" compared to corresponding periods Executive Abdullah Abdullah's post in the which directed, or the great body of troops
ideological moorings are set. It is not since 2001, and the United Nations Assistance NUG into an executive Prime Ministership. which waged it." Greig's description of the
inconceivable that, given how bitterly Mission in Afghanistan "documented more THE WAY FORWARD FOR INDIA: For British retreat could ring true for Soviet forces
polarized the electorate is today, Ms. civilian deaths in the first nine months of 2018 India, these developments may appear in the 1980s, and American forces post-9/11 as
Warren's bold liberalism could offer hope than they had during the same nine-month discouraging, but a more pragmatic view is well.
to millions of voters dismayed at what Mr. reporting period since 2014". necessary to deal with all possible outcomes. (The author can be reached at
Trump has done to their nation. Mr. Khalilzad's direct talks with the Taliban The U.S.'s eventual pullout as Afghanistan's suhasini.h@thehindu.co.in)
that cut out the National Unity government peacekeeper is inevitable, and it would make (Courtesy The Hindu)
(The Hindu)
(NUG) in Kabul reportedly didn't even have more sense to prepare for it than to deny it will
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THE INDIAN PANORAMA
FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019 PERSPECTIVE 9
The U.S. robust economy will continue
The Dow Likely To Make A New High Of 30,000 In 2019
When Ven Parameswaran was President, First Asian Securities, he
had predicted the stock market crash of October 19, 1987. In 3
By Ven Parameswaran hours, the DOW came down 25%. The Wall Street Journal
ike it or not, during President Trump's highlighted him in its story the next day.- EDITOR
L administration, the US has been
enjoying a very robust economy. I am
listing important statistics because the main “ I am predicting the DOW is likely to go up to 30,000 in 2019. I expect a
stream media is anti -Trump 24/7 and will not
give any credit to Trump to prevent his
approval ratings going up.
jump of 3624 in January alone recovering its loss in 2018. Historically
1. The GDP for the four quarters of 2018:
1st 2.2%; 2nd 3.5%; 3rd 4.2%; 4th 3.3
speaking, the markets always go up in January", says the author.
(estimate). The GDP average for the 2018
could be 3.3%. This is a fantastic record.
2. The Unemployment is a record low of
3.7% for 49 years
3. The Unemployment for all the
minorities including the Blacks has
been historical low. This is a huge
achievement.
4. Manufacturing jobs grew at the fastest
rate in 23 years and the unemployment
record for Americans without high
school diploma reached the lowest point
ever recorded.
5. The wages rose 3.1% --the biggest jump
since 2009 - and that "low-skilled workers
are among the biggest beneficiaries."
6. Almost full employment has brought
down the dependence on Food Stamps
and the Welfare, creating respect and
dignity for the minorities.
Unemployment compensation claims
historical low.
7. The stock market added 50% from the
day Trump announced his candidacy in
2015. For 2018, the Dow Jones Average
all time Low was 21,712; High 26,951;
Closed at 23,327 losing 5.63% in 2018
(3,624 points).
8. The confidence level index is the highest
ever.
9. The inflation is comparatively low not
impacting the higher wages.
10. The price of oil under $50 is very low
helping the economy.
11. The trade deficits with Mexico, Canada,
Western European countries, Japan, S.
Korea and China have been opening many accounts for several months. The aggressive but progressive trade policies on Clinton impeachment it will hurt the Party
substantially reduced because of tough My firm was also in the good company of will result in increased international trade and in the election. Also, the Democrats cannot
negotiations by President Trump. Goldman Sachs. I am not trying to brag but business opportunities for the USA and others. get anything done without the cooperation of
12. President Trump has diffused tensions it may be relevant to what I am going to The impact of the Trump massive tax cuts the Republican Senate and President Trump
with North Korea; ISIS has been won; predict for 2019. for the corporations will start bearing fruit. who has veto power.
Less crisis in the Middle East even after Based on my experience in Wall Street and The Republicans will also be successful in The stock market climbed 50% since
creating Jerusalem as Israel's capital. the study of the American economy and negotiations with the Democrats for another President Trump announced his candidacy.
politics for the past 65 years, I have no tax cut for the middle-class, as part of a The Dow lost only about 5% in 2018. The
PREDICTION FOR THE hesitation in predicting the continuation of a
robust economy in 2019. In addition to the
package deal.
Speaker Pelosi has no choice but to pass a
market has had a 15 to 20% correction already.
The hedge funds and professional traders call
ECONOMY AND THE strong foundation and economic environment
President Trump has already created,
couple of good legislations that will help the
voters and she can will try to take the credit.
the market many times. Therefore,
technically speaking, the market has no place
STOCK MARKET economic activity and productivity will
continue to increase and shock the world.
Shutting of the government is creating a huge
opportunity for Trump-Pelosi-Schumer-
to go but up. I am predicting the DOW is likely
to go up to 30,000 in 2019. I expect a jump of
In 1987, the Wall Street had the worst crash Speaker Nancy Pelosi is very ambitious McConnell to compromise and deliver results. 3624 in January alone recovering its loss in
since 1930. On October 19, the Black Monday, politically and is more anxious than anyone to I am expecting a comprehensive immigration 2018. Historically speaking, the markets
the DOW JONE'S AVERAGE sank 25% in a pass a couple of bills with bipartisan support. reform. It is possible President Trump will always go up in January.
couple of hours. At that time, I was the President Trump also campaigned on the need also compromise and negotiate hard. As the stock market, wages and income go
President & CEO of First Asian Securities for modernizing our infrastructure, especially Regularizing the status of 11 million illegal up it will be followed by Real Estate boom in
that had been started from the scratch only a major airports, bridges, highways, etc. I am immigrants could benefit all. Trump may be the Spring. The robust economy and
few months before the crash. Fortunately, I expecting Trump-Pelosi bipartisan deals will seeking to create more goodwill with the Latin confidence in the American economy will
had some inkling of the markets and we were create extraordinary economic booms Americans to increase his share of their deliver the American Dream to many.
going short and also buying Put options for accompanied by millions of new jobs for the votes. Both President Trump and the Democratic
our customers. On October 21, 1987, the Wall blacks, Latinos, and the blue collar workers. Of course, the Democrats will want to leaders will try to make policies that will help
Street Journal carried a big story by James P No doubt there will be competition on who investigate, and investigate Trump them in 2020 Presidential election. In this
Sterba on "Short Sellers, Data Processing gets the credit and that is politics. administration with a view to impeach him. process, the American people could benefit
Firms Won Big as others Wailed Monday." We I am smelling success in negotiations with Nancy Pelosi knows too well that the and some of them will make the American
decided to quick cash all our Puts and the China that could result in substantial impeachment politics is a two- edged sword. Dream!
Shorts and made big gains. The Journal reduction by China on trade tariffs. The Even if impeached only in the House of
(Ven Parameswaran, who lives in Scarsdale,
highlighted my foresight and trading negotiations with the Western European Representatives, it may motivate the main N.Y. was President & CEO, First Asian
strategies in its article that kept us busy countries could very well result in Free Trade. stream media and the extreme left. But based Securities Corporation, New York)
THE INDIAN PANORAMA
10 INDIA FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019
Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid
case: Supreme Court to pass further
HAL gets nod to make orders on January 10
NEW DELHI (TIP): The Supreme Court on
Tejas jet’s next version Friday said that further orders in the Ram
Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute
NEW DELHI (TIP): Hindustan would be passed by an appropriate bench on 10
Aeronautics Limited has got permission to January. Accordingly, on that day, the matter
produce the next version of Tejas fighter will be listed before a newly constituted three-
jets. Dubbed final operational clearance judge bench which will decide the way
(FOC) version, 20 of these are to be forward.
produced by HAL before it graduates onto Despite attempts for an early hearing in the
the next version called the Tejas Mark 1A. case, it has been on the back burner for a while.
The Centre for Military Airworthiness The issue could potentially become central to
and Certification (CEMILAC) has given 2019 Lok Sabha elections, thereby further
the green signal to start manufacturing of polarizing voter preferences.
the Tejas FOC version, sources in the HAL The apex court had on 27 September refused
said. The IAF has ordered 123 Tejas, of to refer to a larger bench its 1994 judgement
which 20 are the initial operational holding that a mosque was not integral to the
clearance (IOC) version while another 20 practice of Islam. The issue had arisen from a
are the FOC version. The remaining 83 are judgement in the Ismail Faruqui vs Union of
Mark 1A. Indiacase where the court considered the
The first FOC plane will be produced by acquisition of a religious place and held that a
the year-end. The CEMILAC clearance was mosque was not integral to the practice of Allahabad high court in four civil suits. They the property on which the Babri Masjid stood
needed as it would take some 10 to 12 Islam. challenge the high court verdict that mandated before it was demolished on 6 December 1992
months to start ordering various On 7 February, the court had said that the a three-way division of the disputed 2.77-acre had been filed before the high court. The apex
components. About 10 to 11 IOC-configured matter would be heard as a “pure land site. court stayed this decision in 2011.
Tejas have been inducted by the Air Force.t dispute”, directed the registry to complete all The Lucknow bench of Allahabad high The Shia Central Waqf Board of Uttar
procedural requirements and asked the parties court had ruled in favour of partitioning the Pradesh told the Supreme Court in August that
to bring on record all documents, exhibits, land equally among three parties—the Sunni it was amenable to building a mosque in a
CBI Jt Dir to continue translations etc. for final arguments.
The court is hearing a total of 13 appeals
Waqf Board, Nirmohi Akhara and ‘Ram Lalla’
(infant Lord Ram), represented by the Hindu
Muslim-dominated area, at a reasonable
distance from the disputed Ram
probe against Asthana filed against the 2010 judgment of the Mahasabha. A civil suit for deciding the title of Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site.
NEW DELHI (TIP): Minutes after
Kerala tense as As GST compliance rate takes
transfer of Joint Director V Murugesan
was reported, the CBI issued a fresh order
stating that he would continue to be in-
charge of probe against Special Director a hit, Centre scrambles to
Rakesh Asthana, officials said Friday.
The agency had issued an order Friday
transferring Murugesan from Anti-
Corruption wing which was probing the
1,800 arrested over locate missing taxpayers
NEW DELHI (TIP): As compliance rate of tax filers,
case against Asthana to Economic
Offences wing.
Within minutes the transfer was
reported in the media, the agency issued a
Sabarimala violence including composition scheme dealers, under Goods and
Services Tax (GST) shows a declining trend, authorities are
working on hunting these missing taxpayers.
The percentage of taxpayers who have not filed returns
CPM worker stabbed, bomb thrown at BJP leader’s house
subsequent order stating that Murugesan under GST has steadily increased over the last 12 months to
will continue to “supervise” case against over 28 per cent in November 2018 as against 10.56 per cent in
Special Director Rakesh Asthana, officials November 2017, data shared by Minister of State for Finance
in the know of development told PTI. Shiv Pratap Shukla in response to a Lok Sabha question on
The earlier order accessed by PTI shows Friday showed.
that Murugesan, who was deputed by The composition scheme fares along similar lines, with the
Director (in-charge) M Nageswara Rao to percentage of filers who have not filed returns rising to 25.37
lead the investigation against Asthana, per cent in July-September 2018 as against 15.03 per cent in
was transferred as part of efforts to give July-September 2017, the data showed.
an “impetus to expeditious completion of Under the composition scheme, traders, manufacturers and
coal scam cases”. restaurants pay a low nominal tax rate.
On a question on whether the authorities are considering
PNB fraud: ED attaches THIRUVANANTHAPURAM (TIP): intelligence warned of more trouble
putting in place an extensive plan to hunt for these missing
GST taxpayers, which includes visiting their premises, the
Choski’s Thai unit Violence continued in many parts of
Kerala on Saturday over the entry of
A bomb blast was reported from
Perambra in Kozhikode district, while a
MoS for Finance replied in the affirmative.
“The details of the non-filers of returns are regularly
NEW DELHI (TIP): The Enforcement two women in their 40s into the CPI (M) worker’s house was attacked. shared with the jurisdictional tax authorities and measures
Directorate (ED) has attached a Mehul Sabarimala temple even as the police The sporadic incidents of violence including inspection, visit of premises, search and seizure are
Choksi-owned factory in Thailand worth have arrested more than 1800 people. since Friday night and early Saturday being undertaken wherever required,” Shukla said in his
over Rs 13 crore in connection with the A worker of the ruling Communist have left authorities worried. written reply.
alleged $2-billion Punjab National Bank Party of India (Marxist) was stabbed in Prohibitory orders were clamped in The government has also detected cases wherein fake
(PNB) fraud case, the agency said in a Iritti in Kannur on Friday night while many areas as tension mounted. invoices are being used to claim input tax credit.
statement. party MLA AN Shamseer’s house was The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on In 2018-19, upto December, 499 cases of fake invoices used for
The attached property is part of Choski- attacked and he alleged that the Sangh Friday announced that the proposed claiming input tax credit have been detected involving amount
owned Gitanjali group, the agency said, Parivar was out to vitiate the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi of Rs 3,894.94 crore as against detection of 4 cases involving Rs
adding that it had issued a provisional atmosphere in the state. Bombs were to the state on Sunday has been 9.75 crore in July 2017-March 2018, the details in reply showed.
order for attachment of Abbeycrest thrown at Bharatiya Janata Party MP V “postponed”. Widespread violence had “The government is committed to increase the percentage of
(Thailand) Limited under the Prevention Muralidharan’s house in Thalassery. broken out since Thursday when a compliance by taxpayers under Goods and Services Tax. In
of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). In Kannur, which is notorious for strike was called by the Sabarimala this regard, an extensive outreach program has been carried
“Investigations under the PMLA clashes between RSS and Left workers Karma Samithi, an umbrella group of out across the country to create awareness among traders,
revealed that Abbeycrest (Thailand) that claimed more than 300 lives in three Hindu groups, and supported by the industry bodies and other stakeholders,” the minister said in
Limited is the beneficiary of LoUs (letters decades, a RSS office was set on fire Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to protest his reply.
of undertaking) issued fraudulently from early on Saturday. 18 persons were taken the entry of two women - Bindu Further, effective enforcement measures are being
the PNB to the tune of Rs 92.3 crore,” the into preventive custody while more Ammini, 42, and Kanakadurga, 44 - into undertaken to check cases of tax evasion and fake invoices,” it
ED statement reads. police deployed in restive area as the temple on Wednesday. further said. Source: The Indian ExpressTHE INDIAN PANORAMA
11 INDIA FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019
Day after quitting AAP, Phoolka Lok Sabha passes Aadhaar
amendment Bill
says joining politics was wrong NEW DELHI (TIP): The Lok Sabha on Friday passed a
Bill to amend the Aadhaar Act and two related laws which
will allow individuals to offer voluntarily biometric ID as a
To form non-political outfit, launch Anna-like movement means of identity verification for obtaining services such
as opening bank account and procuring mobile phone
NEW DELHI (TIP): A day after He alleged drugs were widely connection.
quitting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), distributed during the last SGPC poll. The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill proposes
Supreme Court lawyer HS Phoolka today “The SGPC is a religious body and I am changes in the Aadhaar Act, Indian Telegraph Act and the
said his decision to join politics was against its politisation,” he added. Like- Prevention of Money Laundering Act to comply with a
“wrong”. He said he would launch an minded people and other organisations Supreme Court judgment pronounced on September 26 last
agitation similar to the anti-corruption would be roped in to launch the new year, in which it upheld the constitutional validity of
movement launched by Anna Hazare in outfit, he said. He didn’t rule out the unique identification project with certain restrictions and
2011. possibility of aligning with Swaraj changes.
In the next six months, a non-political Abhian leaders. He said he would The compulsory use of Aadhaar-based KYC for mobile
outfit would be launched in Punjab continue to struggle for justice to anti- connections and bank accounts was prohibited by the apex
against drugs menace and de- Sikh riot victims and to ensure that court.
politicisation of the Sikh Gurdwara Congress leaders Jagdish Tytler and Speaking on the Bill, Union Electronics and IT Minister
Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), he said. Kamal Nath were also punished like Ravi Shankar Prasad said, “Aadhaar being a digital identity
He would not contest the SGPC or Lok Sajjan Kumar. “I entered politics has removed the role of a middleman in a substantial
Sabha elections, he declared. agitation similar to the Anna movement. thinking that my efforts will get a boost, measure whose basic role was cutting, fitting and setting.”
Addressing reporters at the Delhi The need is to begin another such Anna but over the past five years I realised In an emotive speech in the Lower House of Parliament,
Press Club, Phoolka said, “My biggest movement so that political parties don’t that joining politics was a wrong Prasad displayed his Aadhaar card and said, “It doesn’t tell
reason to quit AAP is to launch an take it lightly and listen to the people.” decision,” he said. Source: The Tribune about my caste, religion and medical condition. It is safe
and secured and is for India and Indians.”
Bofors brought Congress down, Rafale Ajay Maken resigns as
Delhi Congress chief
will bring Modi back: Sitharaman NEW DELHI (TIP):
Congress president Rahul
NEW DELHI (TIP): Tearing into the Gandhi on Friday accepted
Congress on the Rafale deal issue,
defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman
DEFENCE MINISTER ‘RAN AWAY’ FROM the resignation of Ajay
Maken as Delhi Congress
on Friday alleged that the party stalled
the deal when it was in power as it MY QUESTIONS ON RAFALE: RAHUL chief setting the stage for
replacement.
“didn’t get money” and ignored national NEW DELHI (TIP): Congress Maken, who has been
security. president Rahul Gandhi on Friday said ailing for a while now, had put
During her nearly two-hour-long reply Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in his papers about two
to a discussion on Rafale issue in Lok gave a long speech in Parliament but months ago and was waiting
Sabha, Sitharaman accused the did not answer any of his posers on the for his resignation to be accepted. The decision was taken
Congress of resorting to falsehood to Rafale deal and “ran away”. late last night by Rahul in a meeting with AICC Delhi in-
mislead the country and gave “point-by- Gandhi’s assertion came after charge PC Chacko and Maken.
point” rebuttal to opposition’s Sitharaman gave the government’s The move comes in amidst the ongoing parleys between
allegations including on price of the reply on the Rafale fighter jet deal the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party about possible dear
fighter aircraft and HAL not getting the issue in the Lok Sabha. sharing for the Delhi Lok Sabha polls, but no final decision
Countering the Congress’ charge, she “The defence minister did not has been taken.Reports are Rahul Gandhi could bring in
said that it was the Indian Air Force answer any of the questions I asked on former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit to stem the electoral
which suggested that the government the Rafale deal. She did not even take damage done to the party in the city state.
buy two squadrons or 36 Rafale jets in the name of Anil Ambani,” Gandhi started doing drama that ‘I have been Congress continues to struggle in Delhi after 2015 when
fly-away condition instead of 18, as was told reporters outside Parliament. insulted, I was called a liar’,” he said. all its candidates lost state elections and Maken lost his
planned to be purchased under the Gandhi said he put two questions to Addressing the country’s youth, personal deposit. Thereafter, in the MC election polls, the
Congress-led UPA government. the minister towards the end of the Gandhi said the minister was Congress was pushed to the third position.
She accused the Congress of debate and asked her to reply in yes or attempting to mislead them. With the picture looking gloomy for LS polls Maken cited
compromising with national security in no. It was a straight question and ill health to quit and said he would not be able to spare the
the interest of the party’s “treasury” “I asked that after a long negotiation without answering that she “ran time the party would want him to spare.
while deciding on buying 126 fighter jets. process, those people who participated away”, the Congress chief said.
Under the deal finalised by the NDA
government, the delivery of first Rafale
in that negotiations—Air Force chief,
defence minister, secretaries, Air Force
“The PM cannot come
Parliament), and the chief minister of
(to BSP may use Mayawati’s
will happen in 2019, while the last of 36
jets will be delivered in 2022, the
officials—when the prime minister did
a ‘bypass surgery’... did the Air Force
Goa is saying I have a file and I will get
back at the PM. She gave a two-and-a-
birthday to brighten prospects
minister informed the house. people object, yes or no,” Gandhi said. half hour speech and did not answer LUCKNOW (TIP): With the 63rd birthday celebrations of
With regard to pricing difference, “And you saw that instead of any questions,” Gandhi said. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati a fortnight
Sitharaman said there was no formal answering this, the defence minister Source: PTI away, party leaders and supporters are set to launch a
price noting by the Congress of Rs 526 campaign to project her as the next prime minister and the
crore as the deal price. But the price Referring to negotiations of the Rafale leader of a non-Congress, non-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
negotiated by the NDA government is deal during the rule of Congress-led third front, if such an alliance takes shape.
nine per cent lower than what was UPA, the minister said, “You stopped the The party, which champions the cause of the Dalits and
negotiated by UPA. deal, minorities, has been using Mayawati’s birthday celebrations
“Comparing the cost of Rs 526 crore Criminal investigation in Rafale deal, on January 15 over the years to send across political message
with Rs 1,600 crore, is like comparing if Congress comes to power: Rahul to the people, said a BSP leader who did not wish to be named.
apples to oranges. The cost quoted in Gandhi forgetting Air Force was “As the Lok Sabha elections are round the corner, the
2007 will it remain the same in 2016, suffering. function is likely to mark the launch of the party’s election
because there is escalation cost and “You didn’t conclude the deal, because campaign and may also raise the curtain on the proposed SP-
there is exchange rate variation,” she it didn’t suit you. The deal didn’t get you BSP alliance,” he said, referring to a likely alliance with
said. money,” she alleged. Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, once a bitter rival of the
“The price of the basic aircraft cannot “They did not intend to buy the BSP. Talks on seat sharing in Uttar Pradesh in the Lok Sabha
be compared with price of weaponised aircraft till something else was done. elections have been underway since November , he added.
aircraft,” the minister further said. There is something different between After consecutive defeats in the 2012 and 2017 Uttar Pradesh
Sitharaman alleged that the Congress defence deal and assembly elections, and the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the party
was only shedding “crocodile tears” on the state-run firm. deal in defence,” she said, asserting leadership will use Mayawati’s birthday celebrations to lift
the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Whereas the BJP-led NDA that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led spirits. Riding on an alliance, the BSP also hopes to regain
(HAL) not getting the offset contract as it government gave Rs one lakh crore government gave priority to national ground in UP and check the BJP’s gains in the state that sends
did nothing to scale up the capacity of worth of contracts to HAL, she said. security. Source: PTI 80 members to the 543-member Lok Sabha.You can also read
