| Issue: VII-10 |
November 20, 2008 |
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| GOPIO NEWS
November 20, 2008 A Publication of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) |
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NFIA HOSTS 15TH BIENNIAL CONVENTION IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON |
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Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayala Ravi will inaugurate the convention on Friday, November 21st at the Seattle Waterfront Marriott. Earlier last month month, Counsel General Mrs. Sushmita Thomas, Consulate of India San Francisco CA visited Seattle and met with the Leading group of NFIA. "I am honored to be invited at the Biennial Convention and after meeting you all I can see a distinct need of a session addressing issues of immigration, PIO and other related queries and we are here to help", Mrs. Thomas told NFIA group at the luncheon at local ethnic restaurant,
Anjali Sachdev, Convener of NFIA Convention briefed CG of the location for planned Gandhi Memorial at the Bellevue Public Library. Some of the prominent attendees instrumental in making the Gandhi Memorial possible include Bill Stafford, President of TDA (Trade Development Authority), Thomas Boydell, Manager Economic Development City of Bellevue, The NFIA and the Gandhi Foundation of USA request the Indian Ambassador Hon. Ronen Sen to dedicate the gift of the statue "Apostle of Peace" Mahatma Gandhi to the State of Washington and Indian Community.
The NFIA 15th Biennial Convention by the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA), an umbrella organization, established in 1980, NFIA aims to unify the diverse Indian American community by coordinating and promoting the activities of its member associations.
The event plans to host Business Expo, concurrent discussion sessions paneled by eminent global speakers from all walks of life. Anjali Sachdev, Convener and Regional VP NFIA Pacific North describe the convention as a "not to miss event". "We are fortunate to have this event in Evergreen City of Seattle. We have invited many leaders both from the US and India. We are lucky to have confirmation from inspirational leaders such as Indian Ambassador Ronen Sen and Indian Americans like 2008 Olympic Gymnast Raj Bhavsar, veteran Tennis Star Vijay Amritraj, Samir Ahuja, Entrepreneur, CFO Sports Museum in New York, Shalini Govil-Pai, famed 3D animator of Toy Story & A Bugs Life (Google).
To match the uniqueness of Seattle, this convention will present NFIA's in vibrant spirit of the Indian Diaspora in the US. For the first time we are hosting a sessions catering to all ages and all genders, weaving the achievements and interests special to Indian intellect and interest of professionalism and excellence.
Also for the first time the convention hopes to bring all Indian organizations together in Seattle. Currently there are more than 20 organizations catering to a diverse population. This is the first time NFIA will be providing a common platform in inviting all organizations to showcase their presentations at this convention.
NFIA's 15th Biennial Convention in Seattle expects to attract more than two thousand attendees from India, Canada and the USA. "We are all set to accommodate and welcome many visitors to Seattle. We have ensured accommodation at the waterfront Marriott and other surrounding hotels," Sudip Gorakshakar said.
The Convention events include, Recognitions by Roshni Media of prominent Indians featured as "Global Indians", and focus on the growing achievements and opportunities for Indian Women, seniors, Children and Entrepreneurs in non-traditional fields. We plan to provide something for everyone, hands-on learning, and interactive discussion sessions. Everyone is invited for some fun at "Impressions" of your favorite Celebrity Parade!
The highlights of banquet will include Keynote Address by Ambassador Ronen Sen, followed by "NFIA Awards" conferred to Indian American Achievers who have made a difference in their community.
For more information visit www.nfiaseattle.net or call Rashmee Sharma 206 730 0770
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| GOPIO INTERNATIONAL TO HOST CONVENTION 2009 IN CHENNAI |
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GOPIO International is planning to hold its annual executive and general council meetings, followed by its conference starting on January 6 and concluding on January 7 immediately preceding Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2009 events of January 8 - 9, 2009.
The program schedule is as follows:
January 6, 2009: Executive and council meetings, country reports and seminar, followed by the GOPIO's Conference Inauguration & Community Service Awards Banquet.
January 7, 2009: GOPIO Conference - Critical Social Issues of Interest and Concern to NRIs and PIOs
For more information and details, contact: Inder Singh, President of GOPIO International at gopio-intl@sbcglobal.net.
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| GOPIO INVITES NOMINATIONS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS |
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GOPIO International is planning to hold its annual Community Service Awards Banquet on January 6, 2009 in Chennai preceding GOPIO's conference on January 7 and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD2009) events of January 8 - 9, 2009. The GOPIO Community Service Awards (GOPIO CSA) are given for outstanding community service, public service and/or significant charitable or philanthropic contributions of benefit to the community. Nominations of suitable qualified candidates are requested for consideration by GOPIO CSA Selection Committee. For details of GOPIO CSA criteria and format for submission of nominations, visit www.gopio.net/ Nominations are to be submitted by December 10, 2008 to the attention of Ashook Ramsaran, Secretary General of GOPIO International at ramsaran@aol.com. |
| TWO PIOs ARE ELECTED AS PARLIAMENT MEMBERS IN NEW ZEALAND |
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Two persons of Indian origin have made history in New Zealand. For the first time, two Indian New Zealanders, Delhi born Kanwaljit S Bakshi, who migrated to New Zealand in 2001and Fiji Born Rajen Parsad, became member of New Zealand's Parliament in November 8 elections. Bakshi is from the National party while Parsad is from the Labor party. National has now become the ruling party in New Zealand. Both the new parliamentarians have been members of GOPIO New Zealand.
Prior to migrating to New Zealand, Bakshi had 23 years of business experience. In New Zealand, Bakshi has been active in a number of business ventures including property, wholesaling and the fashion industry.
Bakshi is actively involved in the NZ Indian community and is the Deputy Chairman of the India Trade Group Inc. and an Executive Member of the Auckland Indian Association. He is the Vice Chairman of the Hindu Heritage Centre's (Management Committee) and the Secretary of the Auckland Sikh Society. He was a founder member of Sikh Naujawan Sabha, an organisation which focuses on assisting teenage children to meet their full potential. He is married to Irvinder Kaur and has two sons.
Rajen has a distinguished career in New Zealand in both practical and academic social work. He holds a Ph.D from Massey University where he worked as Associate Professor and Director of the Department of Social Policy and Social Work. He has served on international projects at the UN's regional headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, and in 1993 on a child welfare project in Croatia. He has appeared frequently as an expert witness before New Zealand's Family Court. He has been Race Relations Conciliator, a member of the Residence Review Board, and the Chief Families Commissioner.
Rajen Parsad started his work life as a spot welder in a factory in Auckland. He is also an active member of GOPIO
See more info at www.nripress.com
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GOPIO INTERNATIONAL AND CHAPTER NEWS |
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GOPIO CHICAGOLAND PRESENTS SCHOLARSHIPS
GOPIO Chicagoland, a not-for-profit organization, was registered in Glenview, Illinois in 2003. It supports charitable projects directly and through organizations in India which direct aid to the weaker sections of society, mainly through education and health initiatives. It also supports education, health and welfare initiatives in the US, targeted at people of Indian origin. Mr. Subhash Mehta, a leading Chicago-based social activist and a long-time GOPIO member, dedicated a significant part of his life to improving the quality of life of the poor, the elderly, the disabled, women and children. He passed away in 2006. In his honor, starting in 2007, GOPIO Chicagoland has instituted three merit-based scholarships ($ 1500, $ 1000 and $ 500) for high-school students from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and Wisconsin, and entering College during that year. The objective of the Subhash Mehta Memorial scholarship program is to recognize, reward and encourage high-school graduates who not only have outstanding academic achievements, but also display a record of sustained volunteerism and service to the community. In 2007, the awards were presented to three outstanding candidates from Chicago-area schools. This year too, Chicago-area students have topped in our scholarship program.  Photo Above: Samir Shah, President, GOPIO Chicagoland, Deepali Darji, award winner, Anuradha Bommakanti, award winner, Dr. Mohan Garg, Chairman, GOPIO Chicagoland, Pratap Sampat
Anuradha Bommakanti (Naperville North High School) is the recipient of the first Scholarship, amounting to $ 1500. She has been selected for her excellent academic performance, combined with leadership in her school and extensive volunteerism in the local community.
Mathew Kalapurayil (Niles West High School, Skokie) is the recipient of the second Scholarship ($ 1000). He has been selected similarly, for high academic performance and a record of leadership in school and extensive volunteerism in the local community and at his school.
The third scholarship ($ 500) goes to Deepali Darji (Maine Township High School East, Park Ridge). Deepali has performed very well in academics, and combines this with leadership at her school, and an excellent record of volunteer work at school and the local hospital.
The winning candidates were presented their Award letters at a luncheon held in their honor, on Sunday Oct 5, at Mt Everest restaurant in Evanston. Parents were felicitated along with the awardees. Contact: Samir Shah, President, GOPIO-Chicagoland, E-mail: samshahusa@netscape.net
EAST MEETS WEST AT GOPIO-CT DIWALI CELEBRATIONS
Global Organization of People of Indian Origin - Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT)welcomed the Indian New Year with the beat of the drums and distribution of bangles as the young members of the organization welcomed the guests on 25th of October at University of Connecticut Stamford Campus. The theme of the celebration, EAST Meets West started with an Indian American mother's fervent appeal to her American-born and raised adolescent son to understand and appreciate the rich traditions and culture of India, finally paid off. The reluctant son, who was trying to avoid the Indian dances and music, finally was won over after witnessing the colorful and elegant Indian dances and music at GOPIO-Ct's second annual Diwali celebrations.
The celebrations was inaugurated with the lighting of the traditional lamp by David Smith, Senior Vice President for Strategy and Market Development at Stamford Hospital, GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham and GOPIO-CT President Sangeeta Ahuja. Ahuja said, "During Diwali people come together and wish good luck to each other welcoming the New Year." Elaborating on the theme chosen for the celebration, Anita Bhat who co-coordinated the entertainment for the evening said, "EAST MEETS WEST" is aimed at bringing the feelings of Indian American youth and parents who are sandwiched between two cultures."
The Diwali celebration was attended by about 400 people from across the state of Connecticut. The evening was fun-filled with dances and fashion show on stage, the evening leading to the cultural extravaganza was full of fun, with children's entertainment, Mehndi (henna) application, rangoli painting, dinner, and music for all to dance.
 Photo Above: Fashion Show models with show coordinator Anita Bhat.
Dandiya, the famous Gujarati folk dance, was presented by a group of two dozen children and adolescents, choreographed by Ramya Gunashekar, was a treat to the hearts and souls of the packed audience. The Bhangra, an exuberant dance choreographed by Raj Singh & Angadraj Singh, had everyone tapping to the tune of the music and dance.
The Jazzworx beautifully presented by a group of young children drew loud cheers from the crowd. The Fashion Show, directed by Anita Bhat, showed to the audience how the intermingling of the Western dresses with those of the Eastern traditions would appeal to a large spectrum of audience from across the world.
Keeping up with the theme, "East Meets West," the event drove home the idea that Indian culture and traditions are truly inspiring and they are a treat to the young and the old alike, even while respecting the aspirations and desires of the young, who are growing up in a culture that is often alien to the grown ups.
The GOPIO-CT Second Annual Film Festival 2008 was be held at the Westport Town Hall Auditorium on November 14 through 16, 2008. This year's films have all played at film festivals around the world and have won several awards.
For more information regarding GOPIO-CT, please visit; www.gopio.net, www.gopio-ct.org
ROTARY CLUB OF PLAINSBORO AND GOPIO-CENTRAL JERSEY CONDUCT A FREE MEDICAL CAMP AT THE DURGA MANDIR
Rotary Club of Plainsboro (RCOP), NJ, and Global Organization of People of Indian Origin, Central Jersey (GOPIO) hosted Prof. Arvind Panagariya with a dinner/talk. Attended by over 60 people, Prof. Panagariay talked on a topic based on his recent book, India: The Emerging Gaint. The program was started with welcome from Rotary Club Prsident Dinesh Mittal and GOPIO-CEntral Jersey President Dr. Rajeev Mehta. It was moderated by GOPIO International President Dr. Thomas Abraham.
 Photo Above: GOPIO Central Jersey and Plainboro Rotory Club members after talk by Prof. Arvind Panagariaya.
Contact: Dr. Rajeev Mehta, E-mail: rajimehta@hotmail.com, or Visit: www.gopiocentraljersey.org.
GOPIO TRINIDAD & TOBAGO HOLDS ESSAY CONTEST ON ALCHOLISM
GOPIO of Trinidad & Tobago held a prize function on November 2 in Chaguanas on the subject of "ALCOHOLISM: CAUSES, EFFECTS, AND SOLUTIONS". It has promoted discussions on ALCOHOLISM in online groups and with the national community. Based on input from the essay competition, GOPIO of Trinidad and Tobago presented to the Government of and the national community, recommendations that will reduce the harmful and hazardous effects of alcohol consumption, in terms of health and the economic and social impact.
Included in the recommendations are: Imposition of a total ban on all alcohol advertising in Trinidad and Tobago; Higher taxes on Alcohol with additional revenue directed to prevention, education and treatment programs; Implementation and enforcement of Zero-Tolerance Laws with regards to Minimum Legal Drinking Age; Sale and Purchase of Alcohol by Minors; Driving offenses, especially those committed by underage and inexperienced drivers; and Maximum blood alcohol concentration; Increased Community and Educational Interventions designed to reduce drinking and drink-driving; and increased research and greater surveillance and monitoring with particular emphasis on determining the effectiveness of prevention initiatives and strategies.
Winners were (Group 17 and Under) Best Essay: Shivani Ramsubhag, Student, Naparima Girls' High School.; Runner-up awards: Shameza Karim, Barrackpore; Zachary Luke Subran-Ganesh, Student, Presentation College Chaguanas; Kevina Ramsook, Student, St. Augustine Girls' High School; Jonathan Washington, Couva.
Winners were (Age Group 18 to 25): Best Essay : Anura Bodoe, Fyzabad; Runner-up awards: Wayne Joseph, Baylor University; Natasha Shevonne Bowen, Cunupia; Naballah Muhammad, Student, Cunupia High School; Neisha Baboo, Santa Cruz.
For Details contact: Gopio Trinidad & Tobago GopioTT@gmail.com 868 687-7529. |
| NRIs/PIOs ACHIEVE |
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PRITI SANYAL RECEIVES DISTINGUISHED FRENCH AWARD
It is with great pleasure that we announce the decoration of Priti Sanyal, Cultural Attaché of the Maison de l'Inde Paris, with the insignia of the "Chevalier de l'Ordre des Palmes Academiques" in an official decree of the Prime Minister of the French Republic.
The insignia was bestowed upon Mrs Sanyal on behalf of the Minister of Education by Inspector General Jacques Treffel, National President of the "Association of the Members of the Order of Palmes Acadmiques" (AMOPA) on 13 October 2008, in the presence of the Ambassador of India in France, His Excellency Ranjan Mathai, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Maison de l'Inde and Dr Kapila Vatsayan, Indian Member of the UNESCO Executive Board.
The ceremony took place at the Maison de l'Inde attended by eminent members of French and Indian communities. The honour was bestowed on Mrs Sanyal for her contribution to the promotion of culture through her writings and organization of cultural activities in France.
The "Ordre des Palmes Academiques" (Order of Academic Palms) is an "Order of Chivalry" of France to academics and educators. The order was originally established by Napoleon to honour eminent members of the University of Paris. It was re-established on October 4, 1955 by President Réne Coty and is one of the world's oldest civil awards.
PIO RANBIR SONDHI WINS ELECTION IN FINLAND
Punjab-born people have been the first to win elections in the US, Britain and Canada but in a first of its kind, a Punjabi has won a provincial election in Finland.
Ranbir Sodhi has achieved the distinction of being the first and only member of Indian origin to make it to the council of governors during the recently concluded election. He has been elected for a four-year term to the 67-member council of governors.Sodhi is a member of Social Democratic Party (SDP) which is a leading party in Finland. His election victory is hailed as a matter of pride for the entire Indian population in the country.
Sodhi lives in Hiekkaharju city in Vantaa State, the fourth most populated city of Finland with over 190,000. Vantaa has the biggest international airport in Finland and caters to Helsinki city. Sodhi is a night-club owner in Vantaa State and hails from Dhuri town in Sangrur district. The Punjabi community in Finland comprises of about 200 families.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION OF AN ICON OF GUYANA
The 80th Birthday celebrations of Dr. Yesu Persaud who is described as an icon of Guyana and the Caribbean were organized recently in Georgetown, Guyana, with a series of well attended gala events to commemorate the special milestone occasion. Dr Persaud who is chairman of GOPIO of Guyana, was joined at all the events by his wife Barbara, son Rohan, daughter Urmi, and his family, as well as many friends and family from USA, Canada, the UK and the Caribbean.
An extravagant musical tribute on October 17 at the Indian Heritage Promenade Gardens attended by hundred of invitees was organized. At this occasion, GOPIO Secretary General Ashook Ramsaran presented a special GOPIO Achievement Award to Dr Yesu Persaud that read: "In recognition and appreciation of his many years of service to GOPIO, as a founding life member and executive officer, at various local and international levels, and with sincere wishes for continued success". Ramsaran remarked that "Dr Persaud exemplifies the true spirit of humanity in his many years of continuing service to the betterment of people's lives".
Photo above: GOPIO Secretary General Ashook Ramsaran presenting GOPIO Achievement Award to Dr Yesu Persaud
On Oct 18 an impressive devotional satsang was held in Dr Persaud's honor in his neighborhood mandir at Grove, East Bank Demerara. People from various places near and far spoke of the many notable contributions made by Dr Persaud that helped transform the lives of people at various levels of Guyanese society. This was followed the next day by a gala reception at the Diamond Estate Club and attended by well wishers from business, civic and government sectors. Prime Minister Sam Hinds congratulated Dr Persaud and lauded his pioneering efforts in business and his successful efforts to hold free and fair democratic elections in 1992 that changed the landscape of politics and life in Guyana. Other attendees spoke of the kindness and humanitarian qualities of Dr Persaud that define him as an icon in Guyana and the Caribbean.
Dr Persaud is a founding life member of GOPIO International and served as its Executive Vice President, thereafter as Chairman of GOPIO of Guyana. In 2006 the President of India presented India's Samman Award to Dr Persaud in recognition of his remarkable achievements as a person of Indian origin.
JOGINDER SINGH APPOINTED MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed Joginder Singh as medical director of Coalinga State Hospital. Dr. Singh has served as acting medical director since 2006. From 2003 to 2006, Singh worked as a resident at Napa State Hospital and from 2002 to 2003, he worked at New York Medical Center. This position does not require Senate confirmation and carries annual compensation of $280,080.
In 1989, Dr. Singh was the associate professor of medicine at Government Medical College in Faridkot, India and, from 1981 to 1984 he served as a resident at the department of medicine at Government Medical College in Amritsar, India.
SCOTIABANK APPOINTS SABI MARWAH AT VICE CHAIRMAN
Scotiabank, Canada's second largest bank with operations in more than 50 countries has promoted Sarabjit (Sabi) Marwah to the position of chief operating officer and vice-chairman. With the expanded role, Mr. Marwah holds the number two position in the bank hierarchy and would report directly to the president and CEO of the bank.
Sabi Marwah was born in 1952 in Kolkata and went to St Xavier's School there. He graduated from Delhi's St Stephen's College in 1970 and then joined Delhi School of Economics for his masters. He did his MBA in 1978 from the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA). |
| NEWS OF INTEREST TO NRIs AND PIOs AROUND THE WORLD |
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VINCENTIANS MARK INDIAN HERITAGE DAY
Indian Heritage Day was celebrated this year on Sunday, October 12, 2008. It was marked with a drive from Kingstown to Corner Rock at Argyle, followed by a rally.
The Indian Heritage Foundation was established on August 6, 2005, at Indian Bay, at the home of Osley Baptiste. The Foundation then held discussions with the government and out of these discussions the Government declared October 7th Indian Heritage Day. It is a great recognition bestowed upon the people of Indian Heritage by the government.
President of the Indian Heritage Foundation, Dr. Junior Bacchus urged people of Indian descent in St.Vincent and the Grenadines to remain steadfast in their patriotism as they strive to honor their ancestors. "Our foreparents came all the way from India, but we must always remember that we were born and bred in St.Vincent and the Grenadines and that makes us Vincentians. We are Vincentians of Indian ancestry and origin", said Bacchus.
Burton Williams, a former Government Minister in the New Democratic Party, congratulated all the persons who have played a role in making the event a reality while giving greetings to the Indian community. "If we don't understand and appreciate the past, it is more difficult to chart the way forward," said Williams.
The event culminated with persons enjoying Indian food and a reminder that in 2011, the Indian community will be celebrating Indian Arrival Day, marking 150 years of Indians in St.Vincent and the Grenadines.
NEW IMMIGRATION RULES ALLOW INDIANS TO WORK IN SWEDEN
Swedish Minister for Migration and Asylum Policy Tobias Billstrom who visited India in the first week of November informed Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi about the changes in the immigration rules which would allow Indian workers to seek work opportunities in his country.
There is a shortage of manpower due to ageing of Swedish population. Both the business and public sectors are having difficulty recruiting workers to fill the vacancies. Swedish Minister Billstrom, besides meeting with the MOIA minister, also called upon Home Minister Shivraj Patil and Labour Minister Oscar Fernandes and apprised them of reforms in the immigration laws of his country. He also visited some business houses in Delhi, Pune and Mumbai and met with the executives of chambers of commerce.
Indian students who want to extend their stay after the completion of their studies, have completed one semester or one term of research education at any institute of higher education and want to work in Sweden, would be eligible to apply for work and residence permit.
INDIA SIGNS SOCIAL SECURITY AGREEMENT WITH GERMANY
India and Germany have signed an agreement last month that would exempt their nationals working in either country on short-term contracts of up to 48 months, from social security contributions. The agreement will help both the Indian investors and professionals in Germany. However the parliament of both the countries have to approve before the agreement becomes operational.
There are about 68,500 Indians in Germany. Although, many of them are self employed but those professionals who are sent by India-based companies to their German subsidiaries or those sent by German companies to India-based branches will benfit by the agreement.
Indian government has also signed similar agreement with Belgium and France and has started negotiations with the US and Australian governments for a similar pact with them.
NRIs AND PIOS SUPPORTED PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN
NRIs and PIOs living in the United States played a prominent role in the successful primary and presidential campaign of President Elect Barak Obama that led to his historic election as the 44th President of the United States.
NRIs and PIOs were actively engaged as members of the campaign staff at the grassroots level in most states, as well as in national campaigns. In addition, NRIs and PIOs have made substantial contributions to the campaign fund raising.
INDO-CARIBBEAN KITCHERIE FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK
The Rajkumari Center of Queens, New York, is holding its Indo-Caribbean Kitchrie Festival weekend celebration of folk arts and history on November 15 - 16, 2008 at York College in Queens, New York. The program includes performances and free lectures by Suriname's Famous East Indian Scholars and Leading Artists of traditional East Indian drumming, singing, and dancing and two of its eminent scholars.
Several community organizations and leaders are busy preparing to roll out the red carpet and give a rousing and memorable welcome to Suriname's intellectual and artistic ambassadors led by that country's eminent scholar-statesman, Hon. Dr. Maurits Hassankhan, Historian and Suriname's Minister of Home Affairs. Dr. Hassankhan is joined by Dr. Narinder Mohkamsingh, Indologist, and ten top performers led by Robby Oedietram, Kries Jainath, Rayen Kalpoe, Sanker Rambharos , Drum Maestro Madan Toelsie, Rameskoemar Toelsie, Shailendra Santhoki.
This rare cultural treat with performances and free public lectures is presented by the Rajkumari Cultural Center with the Association of Artists and Writers, York College's History and Philosophy Department, and Global Organization of People of Indian Origin.
On Saturday, November 15, Dr. Hassankhan, Dr. Mokhamsingh and the distinguished American Ethnomusicologist, Dr. Peter Manuel, give free public lectures at a seminar, Indo-Caribbean Roots and Branches, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. in Lecture Theatre 3DO1 (3rd Floor) of York's Academic Core Building, 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica, Queens, NY 11451. Registration required for seating and free parking. These scholars share their experiences tracing the historical roots of Indo-Caribbean culture to the folk language and traditions of India's Bhojpuri people.
Bhojpuri Rhythms of Suriname - A Grand Concert on Sunday afternoon, November 16. from 3-6 PM at York College Performing Arts Center, 94 - 45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica, Queens, NY 1145. Seats are $10 and $25. Visiting Surinamese folk artists perform dazzling displays of Indo-Caribbean drumming, singing, and dancing. This is a special chance to enjoy music and dance styles like Baithak Gana, Tassa, Biraha, Nagara, and Loundwa Ki Nauch brought to Suriname by indentured immigrant ancestors from India's Bhojpuri region in the 19th and early 20th century. Preserved by their descendents, these heritage arts continue to be immensely popular and in great demand in Suriname today. The Bhojpuri taste for vigorous, passionate, haunting and playful drumming, singing and dancing enjoys widespread public appreciation.
For Seminar Registration, Tickets and Information - Phone: 718-846-5431 / 718-835-1530 or Email: kitchrie@aol.com / guyanajournal@verizo.net Free parking at York College, easily reached by car, bus, and subway. Online directions http://york.cuny/edu/about/directions.
PROF NATH's GIFT TO WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
Professor Joginder Nath donated a substantial amount to fund a sculpture garden and courtyard area for the West Virginia University art museum. The Joginder Nath Sculpture Garden and Courtyard will feature two distinct outdoor exhibit areas on two sides of the museum.
Joginder Nath is a professor of genetics and chairman of the Genetics and Developmental Biology Program at WVU. He has bachelor's and master's degrees from Panjab University in India and a doctorate in genetics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
AUSTRALIA TO RECRUIT DOCTORS FROM INDIA
Australia has acute shortage of trained doctors and is looking to hire foreign trained doctors. In order to recruit doctors from India, Australia is setting up five examination centers in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai where the applicants for migration to Australia, can take a multiple-choice exam that will test their medical knowledge. The first examination is scheduled on Nov 17-19.
The Australian health system relies heavily on foreign doctors and India is perhaps the biggest source of foreign trained doctors migrating to Australia. In the past, Indian doctors had to go to testing centers in Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai or London to take the exam for migration to Australia. The opening of testing centers in India from where about 15 percent of overseas trained doctors in Australia are recruited, would make it a easier for the candidates. |
| GOPIO LIFE MEMBERSHIP AND CHAPTER FORMATION |
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GOPIO is a non-partisan, non-sectarian global organization with chapters in several countries, actively promoting the interests of people of Indian origin worldwide by monitoring and addressing current critical issues of concern, and by enhancing cooperation and communication between groups of Indians living in various countries.
GOPIO Individual Life membership is open to all who believe in the mission of GOPIO. The one- time fee is $5,000 for Platinum Life Membership, $2,500 for Gold Life Membership and $1,500 Silver Life Membership and half the amount for each category for those from developing countries and India.
GOPIO is looking forward to opening chapters in all major cities of the world so as to network people of Indian origin all over the world. If you do not have chapter in your city, please visit GOPIO website (www.gopio.net) and get details of chapter initiation (visit http://www.gopio.net/chapter_initiative.htm). Process involves sending a letter of intent to start a chapter by a committee of five people or more. For more information, contact:
GOPIO President - Inder Singh, Tarzana, California, USA, Tel: 818-708-3885, E-mail: gopio-intl@sbcglobal.net
GOPIO Executive Vice President - Lord Daljit Rana, UK, Tel: +44 28-9807-8787, Email: dsrana@andrashouse.co.uk
GOPIO Secretary General - Ashook Ramsaran, Fresh Meadows, New York City, Tel: 718/939-8194, E-mail: ramsaran@aol.com
To become a Life member of GOPIO, visit http://www.gopio.net/membership_form.htm, print and fill up the form and send it with a check to: GOPIO, P.O. Box 1413, Stamford, CT 06904, USA. |
| EDITORIAL BOARD |
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Chief Editor: Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO (Stamford, CT, USA)
Editors: Ashook Ramsaran, GOPIO General Secretary (New York, USA); and Munish Gupta, GOPIO Media Chair (Los Angeles, Calif)
Webmasters: Prashant Gupta (Gurgaon, Haryana, India) and Abu Thomas (New Rochelle, NY, USA)
Contributors of this issue: Inder Singh (USA), Bina Mahabir (Guyana-USA), Sangeeta Ahuja (USA), Deosaran Bisnath (Trinidad), Dr. Rajeev Mehta (USA) and Harish Bajaj (New Zealand)
GOPIO NEWS welcomes NRI/PIO related stories from all over the world. Be a volunteer correspondent or reporter. Contact Dr. Thomas Abraham, Tel: 203-329-8010, E-mail: gopio@optonline.net.
Visit GOPIO's Official site at www.gopio.net or www.gopio.com
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