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14 March, 2014 Vol. 5 Issue 21 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame 2014: Call for Nominations

T
he Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame 2014 award event organizers confirmed that an independent jury has been set up to select this years recipient of the honour. The award in its endeavour to recognize imminent personalities in the Indian community., and honor that one individual that enriched not just the community but also society at large. Having made significant achievements in New Zealand, and as such have contributed positively towards the progress of the country. The honorable jury members met this past week and have laid down the guidelines for the nomination process for this years Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame award. An undeniable, recognition in his or her field of work, be it politics, business, sports, art, culture, or any other profession. In search for that jewel among the Kiwi Indian community, we ask for you to nominate such distinguished men and women for getting inducted into the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame. The second Hall of Fame will be held in Auckland in May with as much grandeur as the first event where the recipient of the honour was local MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi. Prime Minister John Key was chief guest at last years function, which was attended by scores of dignitaries and guests totaling more than 200. - IWK Bureau
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Call for Nominations Form For nomination form and detailed guidelines, please refer to Page 40.

Community gears up for holi - Page 16-17

he general elections in Fiji this year may well be a revenge of the chiefs. So says a leading political commentator and activist who believes the hurt caused to the traditional rulers will be a key factor driving the outcome of the polls scheduled for September. Not too long after taking power in a military coup in 2006, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, then head of the forces, abolished the Great Council of Chiefs the supreme consultative body in Fiji. The chiefs are hurt, badly hurt, said Nikhil Naidu, spokesman for the Auckland-based Coalition for Democracy in Fiji, referring to the removal of the chiefly body. They are hurt, their people are hurt, and they will never forget, Naidu said. They are united against the regime. This time theres no split. Theyre waiting. Naidu said he believed that this was would determine the outcome of the general election. In Suva last week, a prominent high chief and leader of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), Ro Teimumu Kepa made it clear that they would reverse most of the decisions made by the Bainimarama regime. Those who took over the state and its

Nik Naidu government by force of arms are still seen as a threat, Ro Teimumu told delegates at the partys annual meeting. They will be reluctant to give up their power. We must show them that we have power as well. It is the sovereign power of the people;

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gear up for revenge

this is the highest authority and it will prevail, said Ro Teimumu Kepa, who is a younger sister of Ro Lady Lala Mara, wife of former President and statesman Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara. All of us, walking side by side, will put right the wrongs of the last seven years. Ro Teimumu said when SODELPA came into power, it would reinstate the Great Council of Chiefs (Bose Levu Vakaturaga) as the supreme consultative body in the country. So today we have a constitution that lacks democratic legitimacy. It is a unilateral promulgation that is further compromised in terms of morality and justice in its provisions deliberately intended to protect the self-interest of the ruling elite. With the support of multi-party Cabinet partners, we shall reinstate the Bose Levu Vakaturaga as the apex consultative body of the indigenous Fijian and Rotuman communities. She also hinted at restoring parts of the 1970 and 1997 constitutions after asking for a Supmeme Court ruling. Naidu said Fiji was heading for strife considering the scenarios being played out. Revenge will be a key factor driving some of the parties. The chiefs have lost mana with their people, and they will do anything to restore that. Naidu said this stance would split votes. While the common man in the village would be bound to follow the directive and wishes of the chief, the educated Fijian will not, and will probably vote Labour. The educated Fijian knows that power comes with merit, and not by birthright. He predicted the bulk of Indian votes would also go Labours way. Naidu said at this critical juncture, Fiji needed to have a transitional government to take the country forward. Naidu said in the best case scenario, whichever party wins should get the support of the military, and everyone should move on. He said the threat of the culture of coups that had dogged Fiji since 1987 (four takeovers), remained strong as ever. He compared it to strife in Myanmar. On Bainimarama stepping down as Army chief, Naidu said: Hes a brave man. Bainimarama officially resigned as head of the Fiji Military Forces. The new head of the Fijian Army is Land Force Commander Brigadier Mosese Tikoitoga, Fiji has suffered four coups and a bloody military mutiny since 1987, mainly as a result of tension between the majority indigenous Fijian population and the ethnic Indian minority. New Zealand and Australia imposed tough sanctions on the regime in the wake of the 2006 coup, which contributed to a sharp deterioration of relations. Fijis military government has been criticised by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and activist groups for widespread media censorship and allegations

Fijian Prime Minister Frank Baininarama, now set to contest the September General Elections. of human rights abuses, including torture. Bainimarama, who imposed emergency laws in 2009 prohibiting protests and censoring the media, promised in 2012 to begin talks on a constitution to replace one annulled in 2009. However, police seized and destroyed hundreds of copies of the draft constitution, which had angered senior military officers by curbing the militarys interference in politics, sparking criticism from Australia and New Zealand. arvind@indianweekender.co.nz

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NZs Apple man buys NZ General Election Day Yoobee retail stores on September 20
T
he Prime Minister announced that the 2014 general election will be held on 20 September 2014. And it wont just be politicians New Zealanders will be voting for with Mr Key also signaling a referendum on changing the New Zealand flag. Further, September 20, allows eight weeks for a new government to be formed before the G20.

aven Naidu, of Logical Systems Ltd, an Apple reseller, Apple business partner for over 20 years and systems integrator based in Auckland, will take over five Yoobee stores, paying $900,000 for inventory less than 60 days old, to sell older inventory worth about $250,000 on behalf of Renaissance and pay a nominal $1 for assets, fixtures and fittings. It will retain about 42 existing workers. Renaissance will be responsible for collecting debts of about $100,000. Daven Naidu said,it is in line with our growth strategy, and we had been looking to grow using a similar business environment, and this business is complimenting our own specialization. He added, we have years of expertise in back end services, for Apple networks and commercial systems. And this now gives us a chance to help customers make an informed decision and apply ourselves in retail. The road ahead is not going to be easy but we

Daven Naidu plan to run this in an efficient way, integrating the 42 new staff members, Naidu said, there is a lot of work to be done, it is going to be challenging but the retail business is turning around in New Zealand, going forward we are positive about it. This deal will make Naidu one of New Zealands largest Apple resellers, and making them offer services to customers nationwide. -IWK Bureau

2014 General Election Timetable The key dates for the general elections are as follows: Friday 20 June: Regulated period for election advertising expenses begins Monday 23 June: Launch of enrolment campaign Thursday 14 August: Dissolution of Parliament Wednesday 20 August Writ Day: Governor General issues formal direction to the Electoral Commission to hold the election. Wednesday 3 September: Advance and Overseas Voting starts Friday 19 September: Advance Voting ends Saturday 20 September Election Day: Polling places open from 9.00am to 7.00pm. Election Night: Preliminary results released progressively from 7.00pm onwww.electionresults.govt.nz. Saturday 4 October: Official results for general election declared (including special declaration votes).

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DJs racist comments spark complaints

DJ Neill Andrews

Dame Susan Devoy Susan Devoy, condemned the comments saying they were appalling and noted some peoples intention to boycott the nightclub. The Commission encourages people to use the Facebook online reporting mechanism to register comment which offends them, believing that major social media publishers do have a responsibility to maintain standards and be accountable for them, Jaduram said. ANZ, New Zealands biggest bank, has said it would no longer hire Andrews as DJ, the New Zealand Herald reported. Andrews said that he regretted his outburst, deleted the December 30 post from his Facebook page, but not before onlookers circulated it. It polarised opinions on blogs and internet forums, where some readers were appalled but others supported Andrews. Andrews said the situation blew up when the post got away from its intended audience. I pretty much take the piss out of everything and everyone, he said.

everal complaints from members of the Indian community have been received by the New Zealand Human Rights Commission over derogatory comments about Indians by Wellington DJ Neill Andrews. The Facebook post by Andrews, who owns Famous nightclub, sparked outrage in January. It read: Just because we dont let groups of creepy Indian rapists into the club doesnt make us racist, they also dont buy alcohol. Probably so they can be sober enough to tie up the sack and lift the body into the back of their hybrid taxi, while wearing oversized leather jackets and sports shoes. While the comments did not meet the threshold at which they could be considered unlawful under the Human Rights Act, the Commission recognises that certainly they were offensive and understandably upset a number of people, senior adviser Rohan Jaduram told the Indian Weekender. The Race Relations Commissioner, Dame

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www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Taalam a sublime evening

T
aalam, an evening of Indian classical music held at Ellerslie War Memorial hall on the 21st February at 7pm. The show had many spectacular performances by the students of the Puratan Kala Punjab Gharana Tabla Vadan Sikhya Kendra of Hoshiarpur. Rabab Singh son of Ustad Kulwinder Singh (disciple of legendary Ustad Alla Rakha), opened the show with a tabla solo in teen taal. Rabab played many traditional compositions of Punjab Gharana. He played a composition called Harimander Parn which amazed the audience. Rabab was accompanied by Simranjit Singh on Dilruba playing lehra, and Guljinder Singh on harmonium playing lehra. Next, Simranjit Singh performed Indian classical vocal in raag Hamswadhani. His melodious voice and spectacular compositions hypnotized the audience. Simranjit Singh was beautifully accompanied by Aucklands very own talented harmonium player Samir Bhalodhkar, and Simranjit was accompanied by Rabab Singh on tabla. The third performance was done by young maestros of the Punjab Gharana Institute. They performed a tabla jugalbandhi in teen taal. The young maestros of Punjab Gharana Institute were: Gurjit Singh, Onkar Singh, Harmeet Singh and Harjot Singh. The tabla jugalbandhi was accompanied by Simranjit Singh with Dilruba, and Guljinder Singh on harmonium for lehra. The last performance was done by Gurjit Singh. He played light music taal Kehrwa (8 beats). Kehrwa

taal is usually played on tabla for accompaniment. For the first time the Auckland audience heard the Kehrwa solo pefromance on tabla. These students were students of Ustad Kulwinder singh, who himself is traditional Ustad Alla Rakha Khan. Ustad Kuwinder Singh ji is also a founder of Punjab Gharana Tabla vaadan Sikhya Kendra in Hoshiarpur. Mehak Sharma did a fabulous job as a master of ceremony for the evening. Director of Rhythm School of Indian Music, Manjit Singh, and Daljeet Kaur thanked the audience and performers for a fantastic evening. Dr Inderpal Singh, Ranvir Singh Lali, Dr Gregg Booth, and Lester Silver, awarded the students of Punjab Gharana Institute.

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Youth power shines at Hindu conference

indu Youth New Zealand (HYNZ) and New Zealand Hindu Students forum jointly organized a very successful 3rd New Zealand Hindu Youth Conference on Saturday 1st March at Aotea Centre in Auckland. The theme of the conference was Dynamic You the power of youth. It was a conference calling for young people to realise the power within through being inspired. The conference was attended by 150 participants. The conference was a step towards bringing together youth from different works of life and areas of interest to showcase their capacity, capability and call for the delegates to search for and realise their hidden potential. The day began with a diya lighting ceremony in which invited dignitaries Member of Parliament, Community Board member and Chair of Office of Ethnic Affairs together with youth representatives from youth groups. President of HYNZ, Nitika Sharma, welcomed the guests introducing all delegates to HYNZ, its activities and achievements in the preceding years, calling all delegates to participate and make the most of the day. Speakers in the Inspire session highlighted their motivators, challenges and learning from their road to success in the different sectors and encouraged young people to think about participating more in their respective areas: Female youth participation in frontline (Police) service (Telisha Kumar); Traditional music

participation at international level (Krishna Ramarathinam); and Technology used for professional and economic advancement (Kunal Bhargava). Ministry of Youth Development ran two workshops encouraging participants to learn about the importance of youth voice in decision-making (Your Voice), and equipping themselves with skills to be an effective leader (Your Leadership). Calling on all participants to be agents of social change, speakers in the Be the Change session highlighted their experiences and ways of addressing areas of: Poverty (Divya Hariharan), Creative industries and Collaboration (Bhavesh Bhuthadia), Youth positive engagement (Akshita Nama) and Character building through dharmic youth classes (Rahul Chopra). The day also included discussion on youth getting involved in city planning for the future, the position of women in the Hindu society and experiences of leadership building program (Outward Bound) attended by two HYNZ sponsored young people. Fun energizers, team building exercises and a quiz was also part of the day. The day concluded with an exercise on brainstorming for activities that HYNZ could get involved in to address youth issues and areas of interest. For further information on HYNZ contact Nitika Sharma: neatyka@gmail.com.

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Rendezvous with Sunidhi Chauhan

Indian diva Sunidhi Chauhan visited Auckland last week and mesmerized the audience with her electrifying performance. Dr. Rajesh Joshi from IWK interviewed Sunidhi Chauhan. Here are the excerpts from the interview:
Dr. (Ms.) Rajesh Joshi
IWK: You have always maintained that Michael Jackson was your inspiration. What similarities do you find with him? Sunidhi: (I find) no similarity. Michael Jackson was not a human, he was so great. I can never be equal to him. I cant even talk about him. (He is) only in my thoughts and vision. He has lived a very different life and I have actually lived a different life. IWK: What is your biggest challenge as a singer? Sunidhi: Every day is a challenge, every song is a challenge because its a new song for me and I have to make sure that I give my 100% or probably more than that because people like you who like my work, they expect a lot from us. So I have to deliver better and better each time. I dont take it as a burden but there is a sense a responsibility. At the same time, it only makes me feel good that I should grow as an artist. Expectations are good. IWK: Which genre of singing/music do you find the most difficult? Sunidhi: Every genre is difficult because it (every genre) has its own charm. It is challenging because it is not easy to fit in all the brackets. Sometimes you dont have the mood as you are caught up in your head. You have to finish a song. You bring your own thoughts to the studio and sometimes singing with all those thoughts is difficult but everything is done in the end. IWK: What about ghazal singing, Sunidhi, we have never heard that from you? Sunidhi: I know. I have been waiting to do that. IWK: We are also waiting. Sunidhi: I will make sure that I cut an album on that. I will really do that. Its been on my mind. IWK: You are an embodiment of a very strong, successful and modern woman? What message would you like to give to todays woman? Sunidhi: Stay happy. Happiness is everything. Live; let live all that, I dont believe in because thats not what we can do or what we are doing, unfortunately. We are not so wise. So just stay happy in whatever situation, try to keep yourself happy and believe in yourself and it will take you places. All you have to do it is just follow these two things. IWK: Ab Laut Aa it was based on some serious issues. Although we were waiting for long and long but it took you quite a lot of courage to do your first solo music video.... Sunidhi: Its not actually a solo thing I did. It was in collaboration with Sanjoy Deb. So I wont really call it mine because I was not featuring in the video. (It was) more of a friendly thing. IWK: It (Ab Laut Aa) was based on some serious issues in Indian society such as rape and acid attack. What was the thought behind it? Sunidhi: That was totally their (Production/Direction) department. When they told me that they wanted me to sing the song, I loved the lyrics and I had no idea that they were going to shoot it (In video form). When I saw the video, it blended very well with the lyrics. I think that they did a good job. I would like to congratulate them. Yes they brought the issue which is there. I just hope it conveys the right message to the people so they understand. IWK: That was beautiful! Sunidhi: I am glad. IWK: Any one unfulfilled dream or ambition?

Sunidhi: (There are) many. There is a whole list. IWK: Any one or two you would like to speak about? Sunidhi: The first one is to roam around New Zealand; look around. Make the most of this trip which I am not going to get the time for but anyway thats my first one from the list. IWK: Why Sunidhi from Nidhi? Sunidhi: Ah! When I moved to Bombay (Mumbai), Kalyanji, Anandji- I was one of the singers at their academy. He thought that everybody who is there in the academy had their initial S so why not name me as Sunidhi. It was as simple as that and I said I am like ok I dont mind. I was too little, too young to say anything about that. I was 11 year old. So it was Sunidhi and after that everything turned out to be good. IWK: Any new international project after Heartbeat with Enrique? Sunidhi: Not as yet. Yeah, there are some, something is happening but they are at initial stage so cant talk about it. So once it starts, you will know. IWK: What is Sunidhi when she is not singing, when she is not as a star, in her personal life?

Sunidhi: How do I look like to you? IWK: You look to me a simple girl. Sunidhi: Thats what I am. I mean just like anybody else, I go out. I watch movies in the theatres. I love doing that. I can watch a movie every day. I have even done this kind of a thing that I watched back to back three shows (Movies) in the morning, afternoon and evening. I am such a movie buff or I would go out for a drive in the middle of the night and listen to some music. I would keep my (cars) windows go down and blast it. Just like anybody else. IWK: Once you said, Sunidhi, that you dont see yourself relating with past and you dont like to look back. So what do you see for yourself in near future? Sunidhi: I like to look back in my past and feel good about it. Whatever has happened, it has been beautiful and has made me a better person so I like the past and I love the present even more. Photo credits: Kuntal Trivedi - Kimaya Creations

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oriza Latif, a Fijian girl, all of 22, was crowned Miss Manukau 2014. Loriza Latif, won 3 titles in one night at the pageant ceremony which was held at Hawkins theatre in Papakura. She will be entering the next pageant in early May for the finals. Dreams bring excitement and motivate people to try and succeed. Failure should not be a reason to stop you from doing something that you are really want to. Families are the biggest motivation when they stand by your side with your hand in theirs, said Loriza Latif. She said it was a privilege to get crowned by Mrs New Zealand 2013. Loriza is elegant, beautiful and a smart youngster. Shes believes she is a role model for other youngsters. Working at Freightlines, the Auckland branch, a very renowned company, she is a very bubbly face even at work. In her preparations for the finals, Loriza

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www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Creating change, for the better, motivates me: Kirk

Kirk Serpes, Generation Zero, a torch bearer and ignited mind, speaks to Indian Weekender.
-Vaibhav Saklani

irk Serpes, a mechanical engineer, of Indian origin has been working on climate change and sustainability since 2005. He has helped start up three different youth organisations, Nexus, the New Zealand Youth Delegation and Generation Zero. He was co-leader in the youth delegation to the international climate negotiations in Cancun and part of the policy team in the Copenhagen delegation. At Generation Zero, he sits on the Direction Setting team providing in-house expertise on communication and campaign strategy, advocacy, mentoring and training for new volunteers. IWK: For our readers, what is Generation Zero? Kirk: We are an organisation of young New Zealanders working to cut carbon pollution through smarter transport, liveable cities & independence from fossil fuels. We do this mostly by trying to create political change through campaigns. IWK: With your efforts in your field, what kind of impact have you made? Kirk: Weve made a two-fold impact, the first in what we call movement building, basically giving an ever growing number of young people the power they need to create change. We started from a group of 6 and are now closing on 10,000. The other way we have an impact is by building community and political support for climate change solutions. The City Rail Link, better cycling and walking infrastructure, better insulated homes are all ways in which New Zealanders can reduce their carbon footprint that we have gained political support for. The battle for things like the City Rail Link has not been won yet but we are a lot closer to seeing it a

reality due to our work and that of our partners. IWK: The current political climate, does it look accommodating to your ideas? Kirk: No, far from it. The current National govt. is quite hostile to climate change solutions sadly, even when they make economic sense. The City Rail Link (CRL) would give Aucklanders transport choices and reduce car use and carbon pollution. It costs a fraction of our total motorway spending and has a much higher return on investment. Yet, the current govt refuses to invest in the project till 2020 but is spending more than billions on new motorways. IWK: What challenges lie ahead for Generation Zero? Kirk: NZ is sadly not doing its fair share on climate change, even compared to big polluters like the USA who have reduced their pollution and China who are now world leaders in renewable energy production. We may be a small country but this is a global problem and everyone has to do their part. Our challenge as an organisation is to increase the level of ambition shown by the New Zealand government on climate change. IWK: Recounting from your early days in NZ, do you remember an anecdote that has kept you motivated? Kirk: I actually dont remember anything useful. I moved here when I was reasonably young and only started doing this stuff when I was 22 and at university. So the motivation to do this is more of a recent occurrence. IWK: What is a normal day in your life like, what are your daily challenges?

Kirk: I dont think there is a normal day as such. But it usually involves a mix of meeting over skype with my colleagues in other cities around strategy for our campaign, a bit of online work on our website and social media, organising events in the community, meetings with businesses people and politicians. Yea, the challenging part is probably trying to organise everything over the internet and find enough funding to do the work we do. IWK: What is it that you think is most essential in your targets for 2014? Kirk: I think personally a big target for me is to try and create a space for some real honest conversations about where NZ is headed. Its election year and far too often the debate that happens in the media ends up being on the small petty things that dont actually matter in the long run. I believe that organisations like Generation Zero have an important role to play in representing issues that actually matter to people in the chaos of election year. IWK: What is it that you like to do in your free time? Kirk: Well I actually go dancing. A style called Ceroc. I even competed on the national level a few years back. Other than that I do like travelling. Exploring New Zealand mostly but when I can more exotic locations overseas, especially Latin America. IWK: What next? What is keeping you motivated? Kirk: Next for me is looking beyond climate change to other challenges facing New Zealand. We have some big structural challenges to face.

Kirk Serpes, Co-founder, Generation Zero

The housing bubble isnt just bad for housing affordability, it is driving up our total debt and taking investment away from the new industries of the 21st century. We cant rely on dairy, and forestry on their own. At the same time, we do have a growing problem of inequality and child poverty. And the health of our natural environment, especially our rivers and beaches doesnt really live upto the Clean Green brand image. To see real progress there needs to be a shift to investment in more R&D to create the high value export earning businesses of the 21st century. We need to move away from just plain old resource extraction. We need to have stronger controls on pollution flowing into our air and water so that NZ continues being a place that skilled people want to come to. I think thats what motivates me, that we do have a very accessible political system and there is probably no place on earth where it is as easy to create change for the better.

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www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

NEW ZEALAND

11

Squirrel Mortgage hands out gold bars

Auckland Regional Migrant Services Manukau office is offering workshops for the newcomers to Manukau
Health System in New Zealand
In this workshop you will: Learn about new Zealand health system, know how to access other health services such as screenings and vaccinations How to effectively benefit from the system. Join us for a free workshop on 21st March.,2014, Time:9:30am-1:00pm at our Manukau centre.

Sales & Marketing/Customer Service Workshop

ll that glitters, was gold! That was actually what happened in the offices of Squirrel Mortgage last week. Squirrel Mortgage was giving gold bars to its lucky customers by a lucky dip draw. 5 people from Auckland were the lucky winners. Squirrel mortgage recently held a competition, where their customers would get a gold bar if they conducted business with them. This scheme ran for six months and true to their promise, they gave off 5 gold bars to five lucky winners. Squirrel had opened their Indian community branch just a year back, with Venu Chawdrapu and Nimish Parikh heading the division. They have done excellent business with $100 million worth of loans under their belt already

The Indian community has come out in support of us in a big way, says Venu. We have been fortunate enough to get the confidence of our old clients who want to work with me and Nimish. We are thankful to the Indian community for their support. John Bolton (JB), the Principal and Adviser of Squirrel was there, smiling to see the office full of supporters from the community. We have had a Chinese community team for some time now, but had only recently started working with the Indian community. But seeing the great response we have had in the past year, we look set for growth. John said that it was their wish to provide a gift to the community, and given the Indians affinity to gold, what could be better. -IWK Bureau

-Free for migrants less than 2 years in NZ and with WTR Visa, PR, Silver Fern or Work Visa In this specialist information workshop you will: Receive tips and information on preparing a tailored CV Learn about finding employment in sales, marketing and customer services Find out what New Zealand employers are looking for, in regards to skills, experience and qualifications Gain knowledge on the expectation of recruitment agencies and their clients Receive handy tips from HR and recruitment professionals and have the chance to ask questions Join us for a free workshop on to Thursday 27 March, Time:9:30am-2:30pm at our Manukau centre.

English Advice

-Free for migrants less than 5 years in NZ and with WTR Visa, PR, Silver Fern or Work Visa Auckland Regional Migrant Services help migrants with advice about their level of English, English classes and referrals to community resources. Clients are welcome to bring a support person with them. Service will be on 20th,27th Mar.,2014 at ARMS Manukau.

To make a booking please contact:

ARMS Manukau Team 2 Osterley Way Manukau/PO Box 27 6035 - Manukau Phone 09 263 5490 or email Manukau@arms-mrc.org.nz

12

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Auckland Airport announces sistership with Mumbai

uckland Airport has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Mumbai Airport that will see the two airports form a sister airport relationship. The airport sistership has been established with objectives that include increasing international air links and tourism between and beyond both airports respective countries. Glenn Wedlock, Auckland Airports general manager aeronautical commercial, says that the sistership is important as India is a key market for New Zealand and is a key focus for Tourism New Zealand over the next three years. The Indian travel market also represents a huge

growth opportunity for New Zealand tourism, says Mr. Wedlock. Our Ambition 2020 strategy targets 69,000 Indian arrivals by 2020 which is equivalent to 14 per cent growth per annum over the next six years. Within India, Mumbai is a key market for New Zealand and we believe this sister airport relationship with Mumbai International Airport will facilitate further traffic growth between the two key hubs through joint ventures, says Mr Wedlock. Mr Naveen Chawla, Vice President Aero Marketing from GVK Mumbai International Airport says, In the dynamic aviation scenario, airports worldwide are seeing the benefits of closer

ties through sister agreements. Mumbai and Auckland are both leading gateways. Mumbai is the Financial and Commercial capital of India. It is also considered as the city of dreams and is home to Indias biggest entertainment industry, Bollywood. Mumbai is also strongly positioned as a major aviation market in the Asia Pacific region. As well as this, the Cricket World Cup is to be hosted in New Zealand next year. This will certainly provide a great opportunity to showcase New Zealand to Indian visitors as they come to support the Indian team defend their world title.

Retain the Position of Race Relations Commissioner

ew Zealands ethnic communities want the position of Race Relations Commissioner retained as it currently is in the Human Rights Act, pleaded Multicultural New Zealand, the Federation of Multicultural Councils told Parliaments Justice and Electoral Commission today. Executive Director Tayo Agunlejika told the Committee We plead with you to retain the position of Race Relations Commissioner, as promised to us when the Race Relations Office was merged with the Human Rights Commission in 2002. The Human Rights Act contains the only statutory position with specific responsibility to speak for us and to advocate for harmonious relations between diverse groups. We ask you to please keep that position there for us and for all New Zealanders, keep it visible and accessible through its title, and effective through its status within the Commission. He asked the Select Committee to heed the United Nations Committee for the Elimination of Racial Discriminations call last year to retain the designation of Race Relations Commissioner, and to maintain the independence of the office. However, to address the concerns of the ethnic minorities the demand and call for a race relations commissioner from a minority background makes more sense, in place of Dame Susan Devoy for the position of Race Relations Commissioner for New Zealand.

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ZICA has set up an Indian High Commission Liaison committee (IHCL) to directly communicate with the High Commission. To handle the frustrations of the diaspora, that encounters red tape jams, when applying for visas to India and also travelling to India. This is a real issue, and to try and minimize these frustrations, this committee has been setup. It is led by Nanubhai (Paul) Patel from Central Districts. The aim of the IHCL is to better our communication and make things a bit simpler. There has been a recent change in the High Commissioner in Wellington, with the new High Commissioner in Mr. Ravi Thapar taking charge. The IHCL members have met Mr. Thapar and report to having regular meetings with the High Commission office. What they have attempted to do is to summaries a lot of details into a simple easy to read 1-pager. The aim is to have regular flyers and leaflets of information available. Interestingly, in discussions with Nanubhai, he says that in many cases it is the public that are at fault in their process and not always the High Commission. In this day of technology more and more work is being done online and over the web. He encouraged community members to use the information and for further queries to look at the High Commissions informative website: http://www.hicomind.org.nz/hcinz/ And follow up at the following email address: hicomind @hicomind.org.nz. If still further problems arise contact Nanubhai (Paul) Patel or in the first instant contact Bhikhu Bhana at (09) 238 4729.

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

NEW ZEALAND

13

NEWS IN BRIEF

Prince William and Kate to tour NZ and Australia

KiwiRail asbestos decision New tertiary strategy targets key challenges continues to cost

he Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit New Zealand and Australia in April 2014. Their Royal Highnesses, accompanied by Prince George, arrive in New Zealand on Monday 7th April, before travelling to Australia on Wednesday 16th April. The Royal Tour concludes on Friday 25th April. Kiingi Tuheitia, Maori King has received the official programme for the upcoming Royal Visit and has expressed his pleasure at seeing that the Royal couple are coming to the Waikato. The Officials of the Maori Kings Office have confirmed that the Royal Couple are not visiting Turangawaewae Marae though. The Duke and Duchess have been invited to visit by the New Zealand and Australian governments. While The Duke of Cambridge has visited both countries several times, The Duchess has yet to travel to either. The Tour will provide the opportunity for The Duke and Duchess to visit a number of towns and cities across both countries. Specific events will celebrate Australias and New Zealands success in the fields of technology, tourism, sports and the creative arts. In New Zealand, The Duke and Duchess will visit: Wellington (7th 9th 16th) Blenheim (10th) Auckland (11th) Hamilton and Cambridge (12th) Dunedin (13th) Queenstown (13th) Christchurch (14th)

he pressure on KiwiRail to meet the Governments profit-focussed policies on its freight business as well as reduce overall costs is showing with the grounding of all 40 of its Chinese-made locomotives after asbestos was found, says Darien Fenton, Labours Transport spokesperson. KiwiRail had no choice but to take these Locos out of service to protect the safety of its workforce, but its just the latest in a long line of failures in the overseas procurement of locomotives and wagons. Lowest cost tendering, cuts to rail maintenance and contracting-out have led to a catalogue of problems, from rotting Peruvian sleepers to issues with Chinese-made rail wagons. The Government must launch a review of KiwiRails contracting systems and bring in new independent testing of its Chinese-made locomotives after asbestos was found in them, says Labour Leader David Cunliffe.Asbestos in 21 Century rail locos is shocking. Transport Minister Gerry Brownlee needs to tell KiwiRail workers and the public when he became aware degraded asbestos on some Chinese-purchased,said Fenton. KiwiRail apparently knew the results of testing three days before either workers exposed to the potentially lethal material or the public were told. Gerry Brownlee needs to assure Kiwis that health and safety comes ahead of profits and cost cutting, and assure those rail workers he is on their side, Darien Fenton said.

roviding more learners with skills that industries need, building international linkages, strengthening research-based learning, and performing better for at-risk groups and secondchance learners, are all part of the new Tertiary Education Strategy released today. Speaking at the Higher Education Summit in Auckland, Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment Minister Steven Joyce launched the Tertiary Education Strategy 2014-19. The Tertiary Education Strategy 2014-19 sets out six strategic priorities, delivering skills for industry, getting at-risk young people into a career, boosting achievement of Mori and Pasifika, improving adult literacy and numeracy, strengthening researchbased institutions, and growing international linkages. This is designed to encourage a more adaptable outward-facing New Zealand tertiary education system that makes the most of strong links with businesses, communities and the world economy. The number of apprentices entering industry

Steven Joyce training is also on the rise, compared to the usual annual new intake of 7,000. And more young people who have not achieved in the classroom are succeeding in the Youth Guarantee scheme with qualification completion rates for learners in these programmes increasing from 48 per cent in 2010 to 64 per cent in 2012. Mr Joyce says the challenges now are to more closely link what students are learning with the needs of industry, encourage more innovation and a more international outlook, and ensure that all people have the opportunity and encouragement to gain the skills they need to participate successfully in modern life.

Brando doing a Forest Gump

rando Yelavich was welcomed on the steps of Parliament and congratulated the 20 year old for his perseverance and self-sacrifice as he completes an extraordinary walk around the New Zealand coast. Brando started this epic adventure at Cape Reinga in February 2013. He has covered the west coast of the North Island and has circumnavigated the South Island. Hes done most of it on foot, but with some paddling and swimming too, says New Zealand First MP Andrew Williams, who

has known Brandos North Shore family for many years. Brando, who has dyslexia and ADHD, is about to head up the North Islands east coast on the final leg of his 6000-kilometre adventure. The personal mission is also a fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House. So far he has collected $11,555. He has also spoken to about 100 schools on his travels. Brando has many more kilometres ahead to get to Cape Reinga. His journey can be followed on www.wildboy.co.nz and www.supportbrando.co.nz

14

POWER COLUMN

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Meeting our Rising power prices, conservation challenge customer woes

Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

ur natural environment is one of our greatest assets. New Zealand is blessed with spectacular landscapes and an abundance of wildlife. Access to them underpins our Kiwi way of life. At the heart of Nationals Bluegreen approach is the belief that successful economic and conservation policy can, and must, go hand-in-hand. A stronger economy can better provide the means to restore, maintain, and enhance the environment. We, and millions of tourists each year, enjoy some of the most pristine and accessible natural beauty in the world. Unfortunately predators threaten our native wildlife. Rats, stoats, and possums kill 25 million native birds every year. Even our most iconic species the brown kiwi which once numbered in the millions, is now down to about 25,000 and without intervention will not exist in the wild for our grandchildren. Protecting our endangered native species is our number one conservation challenge. Thats why National has launched the Department of Conservations largest-ever species protection programme Battle for Our Birds. A predator plague poses a serious threat to our endangered native wildlife this autumn.

The protection programme will extend pest control, mainly using 1080, to cover an extra 500,000 hectares of forest to help protect 12 key species including kiwi, kaka, and kea. We have also recently established three new marine reserves surrounding the Antipodes Islands, the Bounty Islands, and Campbell Islands, in New Zealands subantarctic ocean. These areas are considered some of the most pristine marine environments in the world, and the reserves aim to keep them that way, with the area coming under protection being thirteen times larger than the total area of all the reserves on New Zealands three main islands. Within the reserves, no fishing, mining, petroleum exploration or marine farming is allowed. This ensures protection for an incredible diversity of wildlife and our precious natural heritage. National remains committed this year to creating a record number of marine reserves. It is part of our balanced programme of economically developing some ocean areas and setting others aside for permanent protection. National is working hard to provide real leadership on conservation challenges in a sensible Bluegreen way. We recognise the importance of balancing conservation concerns with economic ones. Conservation is about protecting our natural resources now and for the future, so every generation can appreciate and enjoy the beauty of our great outdoors.

David Shearer

f your power bills are rising and you dont know why, youre not alone: its happening all over the country. As the Labour Partys energy spokesman, Ive been flooded with emails and letters from people whose power prices are rising as much as 21% in a year. Even Canterbury residents, hit with some of the worst floods in memory, had power price rises the very same week. Thats not right. When demand for electricity is low, and we have an oversupply, prices should be coming down. We shouldnt be having power increases at all because power is in abundance. The government tells us to relax, the market is working. Clearly thats not true. And with the sell-off of our power companies nearly complete, brace yourself for more increases as shareholders demand bigger profits off the back of consumers. Whats even more frustrating though, is power companies lack of transparency. It suits

them to have a very vague billing system, which doesnt allow us to see where price increases are coming from. Where is our money going exactly? Are the lines companies like Vector and Orion putting their prices up? Is it the company that manages our grid, Transpower, thats causing the increases? Or are our retailers like Meridian and Contact charging more than they need to? Theres no use consulting your bill to work it out - theres no transparency. Thats why Ive drafted a Private Members Bill that will force electricity retailers to send clear, itemised bills to customers, so we can all see whos responsible when our power prices rise. Under this system, unreasonable price hikes will be obvious. This government might be telling you nothing is wrong, and to rely on the market. We dont think thats good enough. Labour has bold, internationally-proven policies to streamline and modernise the system. Meanwhile, my Private Members Bill will make sure you can see where your power budget is going so you can make the sound financial choices you want to make for your household.

Free GP visits for SuperGold cardholders benefits us all

Winston Peters

Bill will end blame game of power rises

any Indian Weekender readers will be called upon at some time to act as drivers, helpers and carers when elderly relatives have health problems. Often an elderly relative needs someone to ferry them to and from medical appointments and help out when they are in hospital. New Zealand First proposes three free doctors visits for SuperGold Cardholders as a prevention measure, cutting back the need for hospital care and the demands this puts on the wider family. A hospital stay puts pressure on everyone. Elderly people may lose their confidence after a lengthy stay in a ward and need more assistance from their family once they return home. Theres also follow up care and treatment required. Once again they may have to rely on close or extended family to help out. New Zealand still has a caring society in which family members look after their elderly, but our health system needs to be designed so we can treat the elderly before they need hospital care. We dont want our elderly sitting at home feeling ill and too worried about cost to go to

the doctor. The earlier an illness or injury is diagnosed and treated the better, but the longer it is left the likelihood of needing hospital care rises. Everyone benefits if our elderly continue living in their own home and they are not worried about medical costs. If their health issues can be treated by a GP they can spend more quality time with their relatives. For adult children, grandchildren and the wider family there are less specific demands on their time. The flexibility to arrange visits and outings with their elderly relatives means a lot for busy working families. By keeping SuperGold Cardhodlers out of hospital we also contain our health spending. The average for a stay in hospital and the cost to the taxpayer is $10,000. If the treatment of just one per cent of seniors who take advantage of the free visits keeps them out of hospital there will be no extra cost to the health system. The three free visits for SuperGold Cardholders are contained in the SuperGold Health Check Bill which is now awaiting passage through Parliament. All political parties must see the sense of voting for this legislation as free visits will benefit individuals, their families and the economy

avid Shearer has drafted a private members bill to provide clarity around electricity prices. Each component of our power industry is blaming each other for the rises, playing a game of saying hey, its not our fault while quietly pocketing a proportion of the increases. Wellington residents are being stung by up to 7% more for their power. Their increase is likely to be repeated across the country in time for the onset of winter. Power prices are out of control and the government is happy to let them go. I will be bringing in a Private Members Bill to unbundle power bills and separate clearly the costs of each component of a consumers electricity bill, said Labours Energy spokesperson David Shearer. That way Kiwis can see the truth of who is charging them. The government clearly wont act, so I will. Kiwis at least deserve transparency around the charges they are bearing.

Customers need accurate information. Right now its a cynical blame game that Energy Minister Simon Bridges is happy to promote. Kiwis are being stung by a system that allows power companies to hide increased prices and profits. Transpower, the monopoly government agency that controls our grid, has racked up its prices to the lines companies that supply customers their power. This despite making a 117% record profit increase in over the last six months and paying sizable dividends to the Government. Despite those record profits, Transpower is putting up charges for our lines companies which are then forced to pass those charges on to Kiwi households. Meanwhile, Genesis, Contact and Meridian increase their prices blaming lines companies, but including increases that are above anything lines companies have announced. Its a rort that the government refuses to fix. The blame game has got to stop, said David Shearer.

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

NEW ZEALAND POLITICS

15

Supergold card a Kiwi success story

Taking best start on the road

L
abour is taking its Best Start package to the people, with a series of community meetings planned around the country. MPs Jacinda Ardern, Annette King, Chris Hipkins and Sue Moroney will be promoting Best Start in regional and metropolitan centres, starting in Christchurch later this month and winding up in Northland in June. Theres often a disconnect between Parliament and the communities politicians are elected to represent, Childrens Spokesperson Jacinda Ardern said. By taking it on the road we hope to talk to as many parents as we possibly can and answer any questions they may have. She said today - Childrens Day - was a perfect time for all of us to reflect on how important kids are to the future of a country. Our Best Start policy is about giving every New Zealand child the opportunities they deserve right from the start. We know every family is unique, and that this package wont solve everything. But we also know the first years of a childs life are the most important and that $60 a week for the first 12 months will make a real difference for many Kiwi parents, she said. Education spokesperson Chris Hipkins said Labour would also boost the number of hours of free early childhood education for three to five year olds - by five hours to 25 hours a week - and establish more ECE centres in high need areas to ensure there are enough places for kids who need them. Best Start would also see around 26,000 families each year benefit from a plan to extend paid parental leave to six months, Sue Moroney, Social Development spokesperson and sponsor of a Bill to extend leave provisions said. Thats a real commitment to supporting bonding and breastfeeding in those precious early months. Labours Health spokesperson Annette King said Best Start also provided more options for new mums, something the Government had promised, but not delivered. Having a child changes your life. In todays mobile world prospective new parents often dont have the support they need. That support is crucial, even before baby is born. Labour will ensure new mums programmes will be available nationwide, along with access to free antenatal care. Well Child/Tamariki Ora visits will be extended so that those who most need help receive it. Our road trip is a chance for communities to get involved and give all our kids the best start in life, Annette King said. NB: Local media will be notified of specific dates and times separately.

enior Citizens Minister Jo Goodhew announced that the SuperGold programme now has more than 11,000 business outlets offering discounts to over 630,000 older New Zealanders. Surpassing 11,000 business outlets is another milestone for the programme, further increasing the opportunities for cardholders to access discounts across the country, says Mrs Goodhew. The latest recruitment campaign has focused on expanding the programme in rural, provincial and city fringe locations, targeting businesses in automotive, grocery, retail, legal services and trade. The campaign exceeded all expectations recruiting 800 new SuperGold participating businesses, this means in the last two years the number of participating businesses has more than quadrupled, Mrs Goodhew says. The ongoing growth and success of this programme means that older people can continue to stretch their dollar further by using their SuperGold Card. SuperGold Card holders can also do their part in getting more organisations to join up by talking

with local business owners who are not already in the scheme and encouraging them to sign on, says Mrs Goodhew. The loyalty of businesses to SuperGold Card and the stream of new enterprises backing it with discounts on goods and services is important to New Zealands seniors. New Zealand Firsts SuperGold Health Check Bill proposes three free doctors visits every year for SuperGold Cardholders. It is not costly to the taxpayer if these visits lead to early diagnosis and successful treatment and eliminate the need for hospital care. New Zealand First is pleased that its 2007 baby, the SuperGold Card, continues to reach new heights of popularity with both users and participating businesses, said New Zealand First Leader Rt Hon Winston Peters. A list of the businesses offering SuperGold Card discounts in each region can be found at www. supergold.govt.nz/directory or by calling 0800 25 45 65.

Ukraines sovereign rights must be protected

A
ny further escalation of the situation in Ukraine could ultimately threaten the peace and security of Europe, says Labours Foreign Affairs spokesperson David Shearer. Given the seriousness of the situation we support the withdrawal of Tim Groser from negotiations over the free trade agreement with Russia. Ukraines territorial integrity must be preserved and any foreign forces should leave the country immediately. New Zealand has always supported a system of international rules and laws that uphold a countrys integrity and sovereignty. These are important principles that we stand by in this situation as we have done so in others. The prospect of a divided Ukraine is likely to lead to conflict and could have disastrous knock-on effects across Eastern Europe. Ukraine currently has an interim government and all countries should support the move to democratic elections so that a democratic Ukrainian Government can make its own decisions. It is essential too, that the rights of ethnic Ukrainians and Russian minorities are protected wherever they live, says David Shearer. Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully says the Russian Ambassador was called in to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade this afternoon over the escalation of tensions in

Ukraine. On my instructions the Russian Ambassador has been called in to the Ministry to hear directly New Zealands views on the situation in the Ukraine, Mr McCully says. New Zealand is deeply alarmed at the escalation of tensions in Ukraine over recent days and we condemn the breach of Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity. We understand Russia has significant interests especially in the Crimean Peninsula, however they need to pursue these interests in a manner that is consistent with Russias treaty obligations, international law and accepted international norms. New Zealand calls on the Russian Government to take steps to reduce tensions and to engage in consultations with other affected parties to achieve this objective.

16

HOLI SPECIAL

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Rang barse: Colours of Holi

Like always, last years Holi also started with my siblings and I surprising the elders with leftover colour powder from Diwali and water pistols. This daag ache hain moment preceded enjoying a tasty dish of chole bhature cooked by mum, good music and calling friends and family. - My mates and I also went to the annual Holi Festival. The best part of this ruthlessly fun event is that it engages people from all cultures. You dont have to be Indian to join in! Ultimately, celebrating Holi in New Zealand, a place unaccustomed to such festivities, requires effort, but an effort worth it. This way, we are able to keep our culture alive. Shivan Chawla

Ive been celebrating Holi as long as I can remember. I dont know much about the history behind this festival, but now, the kind of Holi I play, involves less colour, and more food. I celebrated Holi last year with my close friends. We all decided to use organic colours last year, which are not bright as other colours but they dont cause any irritation to skin; so I guess, you can call this a more sensible way of playing HoliWe started at home, and then went, from one house to another, stopping for gujias & chai. Our day ended with backyard cricket. Dil Bagh

Holi has a special place in my life because my journey in this world started on a day when the entire country [India] was glow with the auspicious colours of Holi. The pure joy of celebrating this festival with friends and family is out of the world. Last year, I went to Vodafone Event Centre with few of my Friends. There everyone was covered in colours, hard to recognize and then I realize anyone and everyone is your friend, throwing colours and celebrating Holi with you. Pure Joy of Colors, Pure Joy of Holi... Aman Dehl

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

HOLI SPECIAL

17

Holi was celebrated in its typical fashion last year, with plenty of colour dashed, soaking wet clothes and laughter in all good spirits. It was at an event held by Humm Fm at the Vodafone Events Centre in Manukau. Packed with food stalls filled with lassi, sev puri, pav bhaji and energetic performances from Indian youth groups. The feeling of being among people covered head to toe in vibrant colours was just amazing and so much fun! Nilam Patel A group of us friends decided it would be fun to play Holi in a crowd as it is done back in India. We decided to meet at the Manukau Vodafone centre the day it was being hosted.There were a range of age groups present all enjoying themselves. It was my second time playing Holi in New Zealand. All in all, a very enjoyable day filled with loads of food, music, dance, laughter and colour. Erum Panju

Celebrated holi at humm fms diwali event at vodafone event centre! While it was a year of drought, still had an amazing time with my friends. Kanik Mongia

Last year was my first Holi celebration away from Mumbai. Frankly, I wasnt sure it would be much fun. I ended up with about 20 odd friends at the Holi celebration at Manukau. It was so much masti! A lot more than I expected! Im definitely looking forward to this year being even better! Alisha Iyer

18

HEALTH

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

World Salt Awareness week

A
s part of World Salt Awareness Week starts 10th March -16th March. As you will know a diet high in salt can lead to chronic health conditions like high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, stomach cancer, osteoporosis and others. Spread the word to New Zealanders to reduce their salt intake and reduce their risk of stroke and other chronic conditions. The Stroke Foundation and the National Institute for Health Innovation (NIHI) at the University of Auckland are calling on fast food companies in New Zealand to reduce the salt in their food as reducing salt in processed foods has been identified by the WHO as one of the most cost-effective things we can do to reduce the burden of nutrition-related disease Recently WHO commissioned study showed New Zealand has had one of the sharpest increases in fast food consumption, coming fourth behind Canada, Australia and Ireland. Research from NIHI found some of the most popular burger combo meals burgers are the single fast food item with the highest average salt content per serve contributing 80 percent of the recommended daily salt intake. An excess of salt in the diet leads to raised blood pressure which is the biggest single cause of stroke The Nutrient Reference Value for Australia and NZ recommends 2,300mg of sodium, or 6g of salt a day. Thats about one teaspoonful of salt from all food sources. Too much salt in the diet is a leading cause of high blood pressure. High blood

GO EASY ON SALT
Too much salt can lead to high blood pressure and stroke

For more information visit www.stroke.org.nz or phone 0800 STROKE (0800 78 76 53)

pressure is the single biggest risk factor for stroke, being implicated in over 60% of cases. Recent research (American Journal for Clinical Nutrition, 2014) has shown that reducing our current salt intake to recommended levels could prevent nearly six percent of strokes. This would equate to over one stroke prevented each day or over 500 each year. As much as 75% of daily sodium intake comes from the processed and takeaway food that we eat. We all can do ourselves

and at home for a week then continue 2) Add the salt at the end of your cooking...(TIP-taste your food and then see if you really need it) 3) Use less salt in cooking 4) Use low sodium salt and (do not tell rest of the cooks in the house hold) Sneaky 5) Season your food with fresh herbs and spices/condiments etc. (Lemon, marinade meat with yogurt, herbs, ginger garlic or orange juice etc.) 6) Increase your fresh food consumption (fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, unsalted nuts, milk) are generally lower in salt than processed foods (without adding seasoning and salt). Eating too much salt damages our health. Did you know 7) Read labels and look for Sodium that 75% of the salt we eat is already in the food we buy? (Less than 400mg/100gm and if you have Ask for less salt please! high Blood pressure then 120mg/100gm World Salt also look invisible salt intake for Awareness Week 11th - 17th March 2013 seasonings added in the food, To learn more visit www.worldactiononsalt.com World Action on Salt & Health 8) Plan and cook your meals, easy meals and fewer takeaways. 9) Choose takeaways, fast food wisely, a big favor simply by reading the content go for healthy options, processed and labels of the foods we buy, choosing the World Action on Salt & Health packaged foods are usually high in sodium lower salt options more often, and steering and hidden source of extra salt (Sodium clear of products high in salt. Choosing more Chloride). fresh foods and fewer packaged, processed Just a few ideas to stimulate your fast foods is a great way to reduce salt in the strategies to choose as appropriate and diet. Cutting down on salt will do everyone realistic. For more information, please the world of good by Mark Vivian (Stroke visit the web link http://www.stroke.org.nz/ Foundation CEO). stroke-free-resources Lets shake the habit and take pledge to... 1) Take the table salt off the table at work

Waiter ! - theres soup in my salt!

WASH

WASH

Charity registration number: 1098818

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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FEATURES

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Rajeshs Rainbow

My children, their children

Dr. (Ms.) Rajesh Joshi

ducation in the Indian schools has been through umpteen high and low phases in the recent past. Changes in the education policies have at times improved the quality of education or sometimes they simply backfired because of the lack of vision or interest. Some of the reforms were introduced too hurriedly that there was barely any time to prepare the stakeholders: the schools, the students and the parents. A few years back Delhi Government gave the mandate to reserve 10% seats in Nursery class for the under-privileged students in all private and government schools across Delhi. This percentage later increased to 15% and finally settled on 25% seats of the total number of admissions to the Economically Weaker Section (EWS). A wide-ranging feeling of discontent and so called injustice started circulating in the private schools as they felt that they would have to miss out on a major portion of their income. Hence they raised stiff objection to the Governments order but the Government did not budge. Eventually the schools gave in and opened their doors for those kids and parents who even in their wildest dreams had never thought of joining such well-heeled institutions.

However, many schools tried to find loopholes to earn money under the table. Anyways, that is another story. What is important here is to highlight the attitude of the people. Those who came under EWS were jubilant and weaved dreams of a bright future for their children. The real problem was the mind-set of the so called well-off parents whose children were to study with the EWS students. All sorts of parents started showing up in my office: concerned, unhappy, frustrated and snooty. School staff was in the range of fire. One fine morning, a lady over-laden with diamonds stepped into my office with the air of being a queen and startled me with her most unfriendly tone. Madam, how can you do this? We are left for nowhere. Obviously not identifying with her train of thoughts, I did a quick revision of my recent actions and decisions but could not trace any bombardment that would leave people for nowhere. Did I forget something? So I apologetically asked her, Oh! But what is it? She adjusted her Rolex watch and fired back, How can my Krish (son) study with the kids from the slums? Do you know he comes to school by Skoda? We went to Europe for vacation!! My putter (son) has his personal servant at home and

here you want him to sit with those Slumdwellers! Keeping my doubts at bay that she would understand the whole rigmarole behind this historic step, I probably asked the most irrelevant question, But madam whats the harm in it? She glared at me with all the intensity of a hot summer days sun and left my office huffing and puffing. Another parent known for his ferocious temperament came unannounced. He had some lethal weapons up his sleeve. He amazed me with his common sense. Why dont you start evening classes for those kids? I snapped, What if they study with your kids? He was quick to retort, And what if they pick the language and manners of slums? I shot back, And what if those kids pick the language and manners that we will teach them? He cast an angry glance at me and left. Grandparents of a cohort of children had a brilliant suggestion, Why dont you make a separate section for those children so that they are comfortable and our children are also at peace. I insisted, No, I dont want to make a separate section. I want them to study together. They looked crushed and went back. A bunch of ladies came in protest mode. They used their last resort, We dont want

our children to study in this school. We wish to admit them to other school. I smiled at their ignorance, I dont mind you doing that but wish to inform you that all schools will have to follow the same policy. Needless to say that their exit was as swift as was their entrance. We had to make painstaking efforts through multiple counselling sessions to relax the unnerving parents. Is the concept of we over from our society? It is only about I, me, myself and mine. In every situation, we wish to know, What is for me in it? Why arent we happy when something benefits others but not us? Besides, why do we set examples of Discrimination for our children when they havent even learnt to write D? Why are we so conscious of class status and income? We create walls of divide in the minds of our children and they carry them throughout their lives to make impenetrable forts around them. Bricks & Bouquets: Should there be separate schools for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) students? Please share with me at rajesh@rainbow.org.nz

How to understand trust and how it is taxed

Saurav Wadhwa

hat is trust? Trust is not an entity; it is just a relationship between the settlor and the trustee. There are three important parties in a trust. They are settlor, trustee and beneficiary. Settlor is the person who set up the trust. Trustee is a representative of settlor who manages the trust and is the legal face of the trust. The Trustee is liable for the trusts tax and legal obligations. The Beneficiary is the person who is benefits from the trust income. One of the important elements of a trust is that the trustee looks after the property (assets) for the benefit of beneficiary. The Trust can be started with a sum of $100, and later family home, investments, and other assets can be gifted to the trust. A trust, other than a charitable trust has a maximum life span of 80 years. The rationale is to promote the liquidity of assets in the society, otherwise assets can always be locked into trust and the general public may not have access to that. Tax classification of trust? Income Tax Act 2007 subpart HC classifies trust into 3 types: complying, non-complying and foreign trust. Most (about 95%) family trust set up in New Zealand are complying trust, even though when the settlor moves overseas the complying trust can still maintain its status and distribute New Zealand source income to beneficiaries or trustees. How trust is taxed?

The tax on trust is determined by reference to the settlors residence and the source of the income. If settlor is New Zealand tax resident the worldwide income of the trust will be taxable in New Zealand. If settlor is non-resident then only New Zealand sourced income will be taxable. The income a trust derives is either a trustee income or a beneficiary income. Beneficiary income is income distributed to beneficiary. It is taxed at beneficiarys marginal tax rate and usually it is paid by trustee on behalf of beneficiary. However, with minor beneficiary (beneficiary under 16 years old) income is taxed at 33% regardless of the beneficiarys marginal tax rate. All the other Income that is not paid to a beneficiary is trustee income, which is taxed at 33%. Trust cannot distribute loss to the beneficiary it can only retain the loss for future income. Once loss is recovered it can start making distribution to beneficiary. For example: Kumar family trust owns a rental property it made a profit of $10,000 in the year ending 31-03-2014. Mr. and Mrs. Kumar and their son (Raj over 16 years) are a beneficiary of the trust. Trust distributes $10,000(rental income) to Raj, this it will be taxed at 10.5%, total tax paid would be $1,050. If Mr. and Mrs. Kumar owns this property in their personal capacity they will have to pay tax at 33% (highest tax rate), total tax paid would be $3,300. So by having a trust they will save tax of $2,250 in a year. How assets are transferred from settlor to a trust? The assets are sold to a trust from the settlor

at assets market values. The trust may not have money, so the settlor lends the money and then the settlor forgives the debts as a gift to the trust. After 1st October 2011, the limit of $27,000 that you could gift without paying gift duty was removed. Therefore you can forgive all debts a trust owes to you straight away. The final idea is to own fewer assets under the settlors names so they can protect their assets from being claimed and obtain tax advantage (If is merely incidental) Benefits of a trust 1. Protect assets against claims and creditors. 2. Ensure later generations own it not their partners. 3. Set aside money for special usage like education or special purpose. 4. Retirement home subsidy. Risk of a trust If the proper documentation is not maintained such as trustee meeting minutes and there is a lack of independence in the trustee. The trust can be considered as a sham due to improper conducts. It means the trust could not protect the settlors assets as expected. You also need to be careful about tax avoidance in a leading tax case on taxation of trust Penny and Hooper v Commissioner of Inland Revenue [2011] NZSC 95 (SC) it was held if the purpose or effect of setting up a trust is altering the incidence of tax, which is more than merely incidental, and in the absence of legitimate reason for doing so it can be considered as tax avoidance. Section BG1 of Income Tax Act 2007 gives powers to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue to make the

arrangement null and void and recalculate the tax. In the next article, we will cover the new changes being made to financial reporting standards nearly 95% of businesses in New Zealand will be affected and about 8 legislations will be amended to reflect those changes. These changes are effective from 01st April 2014, and this is going to be a major change to the reporting standards. The whole idea is to make financial reporting simpler for the small businesses. About the author: Saurav Wadhwa is an Auckland based chartered accountant and a director of IBBZ Accounting Limited. Saurav is a tax specialist with Masters in Tax with Distinction (Auckland) and have 10 years of experience in the industry. He is very passionate about helping small business owners. His easy going personality and a friendly nature makes him easily approachable. For all your tax problems, small business accounting, overdue tax returns, tax debt, tax consultancy, and IRD audits & disputes you can contact him at Saurav@ibbz.co.nz or 027 5555 458. Disclaimer: Information above is provided for general use only, if you are intending to rely on any of the information above please consult with us or seek a professional advice. We accept no responsibility of what so ever if above information result in any kind of loss to you, tax laws differs and varies for individual circumstances.

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SPORTS SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT NEW ZEALAND POLITICS

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Editorial

Stop the rot in Fiji

T doesnt take a rocket scientist to work out whats wrong with Fiji, and its politics. Another coup, and eight years later, another election, and the coup leader could again become a legalised Prime Minister should the outcome of the election be in his favour. Sitiveni Rabuka carried out two military coups within six months of each other in 1987, and went on to become an elected Prime Minister of the island nation after changing the constitution. Along came George Speight and his band of thugs in 2000 and removed the elected government of Mahendra Chaudhry, and held the Prime Minister and 35 others captive for more than 50 days until he was forcibly removed by Army chief Commodore Frank Bainimarama. Speight is in jail serving a life sentence. Six years later, Bainimarama himself ousted the elected government of Laisenia Qarase, and appointed himself Prime Minister of the interim military government which is still in power eight years on. In six months time, Bainimarama himself will be contesting the election following a complete overhaul of the 1997 constitution, and is confident that he will be victorious in the September poll and then he can legally continue extending the policies of the military government he heads. What if he doesnt win the Prime Ministership? While he has stepped down as Army commander, who will the Army back after the polls? Bainimarama doesnt even have a political party set up while his opponents have hit an early election trail. The Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA, formerly the SDL), has already made it clear that it will turn back the clock and right the wrongs of the past seven years, which could even lead to Bainimarama and his men facing the courts of law. It has been said hundreds of times before and it needs to be said again: The culture of coups started off 27 years ago is what is wrong with Fiji. Only if the armed forces are kept in their barracks will the country break out of this self-destructive cycle. Unfortunately, that realisation has yet to dawn on the leaders of the military, who cling to the idea that they must forever be the saviours of the nation. Putting it bluntly, picking up a gun to force your people into submission is akin to domestic violence in society, a blatant use of brawn. Remember those ads in the media which boldly declare Violence is NOT okay? In the many articles on Fiji in this issue of the Indian Weekender, there is mention of poor leadership rife in the country giving rise to more of the same. It is time for traditional and political leaders to come together and decide once and for all that the military remain non-political and will only mobilise in the service of the people. The onus is now on the new head of the Fiji Military Forces, Brigadier Mosese Tikoitoga, to stand firm in his leadership and commitment to the elected government of the day. This could herald the dawn of a new era in the country once known as the way the world should be. -Arvind Kumar

War on drugs in schools needs support

Nemani Delaibatiki

Indian Weekender Volume 5 Issue 21 Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited Managing Editor: Giri Gupta | girigupta@xtra.co.nz Editor: Arvind Kumar | arvind@indianweekender.co.nz Correspondent: Vaibhav Saklani | iwk.vaibhav@gmail.com Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@ indianweekender.co.nz Design: Natasha Iyer | natasha.iyer91@gmail.com Advertising & Business Development Manager: Gaurav Gupta - M: 021 292 4519 l gaurav@indianweekender.co.nz Sales Support: Leena Pal - M: 022 015 1971 | iwk.leena@gmail.com Accounts and Admin.: Farah Khan - P: 520 0922 l accounts@indianweekender.co.nz Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher is not responsible for advertisers claims as appearing in the publication Indian Weekender is published by Kiwi Media Group, 98 Great South Road, Auckland Printed at Guardian Print, Ashburton Copyright 2010. Kiwi Media Group. All Rights Reserved.

CCORDING to the Ministry of Health, 80 per cent of the illness, disability and deaths in Fiji are attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). They are the leading cause of premature deaths in Fiji and we need to deal with the issue to prevent people dying prematurely. In many cases, they are linked to alcohol, drugs, tobacco and substance abuse. An increasing number of young people are being hooked on these substances and we need to seriously address this issue. It is encouraging to see Suva Grammar School conduct its Drugs Awareness Week early in the school year and not wait till June to do it with other schools as planned. The message needs to go out early that substance abuse is not worth it so that the young people have time to think about it and decide. Recently Suva Grammar disciplined four or five students for using illicit drugs. The problem is not confined to this school only. It is a major challenge in many schools. It is recognised that the effects of illegal drugs and other substances have a devastating impact on our economic, social and cultural lives. For students, it will affect their mental wellbeing and their academic performance. Government says there has not been any proper research conducted in Fiji on the relationship between drugs and substance use and academic performance.

It adds, however, there have been anecdotal evidence or reports on observations made by teachers from schools in a number of education districts linking children of parents who had previously smoked the drug marijuana to poor concentration in class, poor memory and lack of interest in school work. Research conducted in other countries link illegal drug use, alcohol and substance abuse, to poor academic performance. The Ministry of Education in its Strategic Plan for 2012-2014 has as Outcome 3: The welfare of students are promoted and protected through school improvement programmes that build character and bring about social cohesion in an environment that is safe and secure. The Substance Abuse Advisory Council is doing its best through drug awareness workshops, peer education training, training of trainers for teachers, presentations, school broadcasts, distribution of pamphlets/ brochures, radio and TV advertisement to increase awareness on the harmful effects of drugs to students and the general public. But Government cannot handle this massive project alone. It needs the help and support of the community, faith-based organisations, nongovernment organisations (NGOs) and families to achieve the desired outcomes. - Nemani Delaibatiki is managing / training of Fiji Sun, based in Suva

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

COMMENT

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Fiji: From bullet to ballot

Nik Naidu

HEN Arvind Kumar, the Editor of the Indian Weekender, asked me a few days ago for my views on the much anticipated upcoming Fiji General Elections, I had so much to say that he suggested I write a piece for this issue. And so here it is: more in the form of a Question and Answer session, with the aim of hopefully making you think a bit more deeply about Fiji! And accept these views as you wish, either with a pinch of salt or a bowl of kava; if anything, I hope, at the least, it will stimulate some discussion. WILL FIJI REALLY HOLD ELECTIONS? The first question that comes to mind is whether Fiji will actually have elections this year? After all, hasnt the now Mister Bainimarama made this promise before? (He is no longer Commodore Bainimarama, as of last week, having retired from the military, at least officially). Will he really keep his word this time? And why would his current illegal regime risk losing the absolute unbridled power and unlimited privileges that they now enjoy? What is their incentive, if any, to go to the polls? Is it international pressure? Have they had enough, and have given up? Do they want to freely travel the world without restrictions and sanctions? Do they miss watching live the NZ Rugby Sevens and Rugby World Cup, which current sanctions prevent? Do they want to legitimise themselves? Why bother holding elections now, eight years on? And I have always asked the question, why would Mr Bainimarama and his regime want elections anyway? After all, they are, as it appears, in total control of the country? And they have very little effective opposition? And they claim that most people in Fiji support them and want them to continue to rule? Didnt their own polling show that over 70 per cent of people support Mr Bainimarama? But then isnt there a real risk that they may not win? After all, the old adage goes you can never predict the outcome of an election. Why has Mr Bainimarama give up his command of the military? Will the military now support him? Will the military be independent going forward? Will the newly appointed army Commander respect the outcome of an election? Will the military now want a say in the running of future governments? What has got into Mr Bainimaram that he is willing to risk losing his position as Prime Minister, and put his trust in the unpredictable people of Fiji? What if he has miscalculated, and loses the elections? What if some other party wins and they undo what he has done (reverse his new Constitution, cancel his Decrees, and not honour his Immunity laws)? Why would he take this gamble and risk being tried for treason? But then again, is he really at risk, or does he have a backup plan up his sleeve? Or is the plan that if he loses, the military will ignore the results and continue to rule Fiji? Or is Mr Bainimarama just bluffing once more? Is this a cunning ploy to flush out any remaining people who are publicly opposing him, so that he can once and for all put them behind bars? Maybe he has acquired the Sadam Hussein Muammar Gaddaffi complex, where he now truly believes that his people love him and will never betray him? Or is he that confident that he and his possible soon-to-be-announced party will win? Or has he received really bad advice on his chances of winning? Or maybe he will at the last minute not hold elections? Or has he finally lost the plot? Or has he finally seen the light and wants democracy now? Who knows? So many questions remain to be answered. I often ask, if I was Mr Bainimarama, and was in his position of absolute power and control, what would I

do? Well, I would definitely not risk losing everything! Especially after being shot at, abused, threatened, ridiculed, nternationally ostracised. Why risk joining Mr George Speight in Naboro Prison? SO WHO ARE THE CONTESTANTS? This brings us to the election front-runners : 1. SODELPA Party (the re-badged SDL Party). They won the 2000 and 2006 elections, and were unceremoniously removed by Commodore Bainimaramas military in 2006. They are an ethnicFijian party, and were largely seen as racist when in government due to their pandering to the whims of the indigenous ethno-nationalist elements. Are they now reformed and any different? Chances are they will be even more discriminatory, as most of the same pre-2006 people are in the background driving the party. They are the main political victims of the 2006 Bainimarama coup, and will be keen to re-assert their authority, and re-claim what is rightly theirs. Plus there is a real risk that high on their agenda will be a temptation to take revenge against the current regime and its supporters. 2. The Fiji Labour Party. They won the 1987 and 1999 elections, and were in a coalition government with the SDL in 2006. They are effectively pre-dominantly an ethnic-Indian party. Together with their SDL-partners, they were removed by Commodore Bainimarama in his 2006 coup. But, surprisingly, they were two-faced, as straight after this coup, they went into a coalition government with the military, which suggests that they were part of the 2006 coup plotters! After a few years of enjoying power in coalition with Bainimaramas military regime, they eventually fell out with the military, and were sacked. They then turned full-circle, and went back to the party that they back-stabbed, the SDL. They are now in an (unholy) alliance with SODELPA (nee SDL). It appears, like their former and now again current partners, the Fiji Labour Party is more interested in removing Mr Bainimarama than working for the good of Fiji. 3. The National Federation Party. They are an ethnicIndian party. They won the 1987 elections together with the Fiji Labour Party, as a coalition. Soon after the 1987 coup which removed them from government, they fell out with the Fiji Labour Party, and went on their own into the next few elections. In the 2006 election, they did not win a single seat! They also appear to be complimenting and supporting SODELPA. It looks like this saying is true: An enemy of my enemy, is my friend. 4. The soon-to-be announced Bainimarama-Military party. Well, this will, if it eventuates, be the current illegal military-backed regime, looking to legitimise itself through the ballot box. Surprisingly, Mr Bainimarama still has no party at this stage. Maybe he is leaving this to the last minute to build up the excitement for his selfpredicted massive fan club? 5. Independents. There are a number of independent candidates who have put their hand up, and are a breath of fresh air, but possibly will have difficulty breaking the party-hooked Fiji voters. Ms Roshika Deo is deserving of votes. Confused? I dont blame people for saying that the situation in Fiji is complicated! Yes - it is complex, but not because of the issues, but because of the leadership, or lack of good ones; what with political leaders changing bed-fellows almost as regularly as they change their underpants! What hope is there for Fiji politics, balanced elections, and true democracy? Either way, I feel sorry for the people of Fiji - what a line-up to choose from! Are these really the main choices they have? So what was the point of Commodore Bainimaramas clean-up campaign? Nearly eight years on, not much has changed politically? Same players and the same game? Who would blame the people of Fiji if they did not vote (again)? And little wonder voter-turnout in the last election was only 55 per cent.

Fijis Attorney-General and PM Bainimaramas right hand man, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. HOW WILLVOTING TAKE PLACE? According to my friend the Attorney-General and Minister Responsible for Elections, Mr Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum: Fiji will use a multi-member open list system of proportional representation, under which each voter has one vote, with each vote being of equal value, in a single national electoral roll comprising all the registered voters. I am not sure how many of the sophisticated Fiji populace will understandAiyazs lawyer-talk? Did you? I didnt! And it appears the proposed new Fiji electoral system allows for a 50-seat single Parliament, but now with a single national constituency? What does this mean? Will there be no areas or constituencies? So there will be a single voting paper? If, say, 500 people stand for elections, will all 500 will be on the one single voting paper? And voters will have to go through pages and pages of names and choose 50 out of 500? Could the Fiji people really manage that? I would lose count and concentration most probably on page 3 and give up! And then depending on the percentage of votes received, each party will be allocated seats? So, say, if a party wins 50 per cent of the votes, they get 50 per cent of the seats? Even if, say, their candidates got 75 per cent of the highest number of votes? Or are some seats going to be allocated some other way? Or will it be proportional representation similar to New Zealand and our list MPs? I dont think even the Fiji regime has worked this out yet?! Plus what was the problem with the old Communal system of voting anyway? Was it really that bad? The old Communal voting system twice provided victory for the Fiji Labour Party. Was it bad then? Or was it only bad because the Labour Party could not win again? After all, was there not wide-spread democratic consultancy and almost universal acceptance of the Reeves Report and the 1997 Fiji Constitution? Why did Mr Bainimarama have to throw this real peoples Constitution out? And wasnt Communal voting designed to protect minorities so that they can have at least some representation? Now under the new system, will Rotumans and Part-Europeans have any chance of winning a single seat? And arent ethnic-Indians (or Indo-Fijians or what ever you want to call them?) now also a minority? Estimated populations of ethnic-Indians in Fiji is 35 per cent, and ethnic-Fijians 60 per cent. Who will represent them? Will they ever have a real say anymore? Recently, a close family-friend of mine and a past Fiji political leader said this to me when discussing ethnicIndians in Fiji, and their perceived embracing of the recent changes of one person one-vote, and the removal of the communal system of voting: Indo Fijians should be careful what they wish for. Beware the tyranny of the majority?. And so to all readers - I urge you to look this term up on the internet or in a library - because this is part of my prediction for the future of Fiji! And more questions? It appears there will be only one day of polling, instead of the one week of voting as in the past? Will people in rural areas have enough time to travel to voting stations? And voting will apparently be done electronically? So does this mean there will not be any ballot paper, but a computer-based touch-screen system or similar? If so, how accurate will it be? What if the computers dont work or crash? What if the computer link or network does not work properly? How secure and private will voting be? What if an IT-person sitting in the Election Head Office, is able to fiddle the results by changing the voting figures? And how can anyone trust or believe the results? AND WHO WILLWIN THE ELECTIONS? Or more like, who will lose? At the end of the day, whether elections take place or not, the people of Fiji will be the losers, no matter who wins. My reasoning : it is most probably near impossible to restore the country to its former glory, and not going to be easy to pay back the massive amount of loans and debt that has been accumulated by this and previous regimes. And the people of Fiji will end up with, regardless of who wins, more of the same style and type of continual poor self-indulging leadership that they have become used to. By the way, as I have always maintained, Fijis biggest curse has been successive poor leadership. Not Coups. Just poor, failed, selfish leaders. Will it really be any different after these elections? Also, the majority of Fiji people live in rural areas, in villages and settlements. They traditionally have voted emotionally, rather than strategically or on logically on issues. And ethnic-Fijians are by-and-large still very traditional and possibly will continue to follow their chiefsvoting direction. Mr Bainimarama and his followers and military think he will win. I am not sure if they have included other members of his current non-existent party as potential winners as well because I dont think he will be the only candidate for his party? There must be others? At least another 50 of them? But will they have enough support? He may, but will they? My pick: Understanding how Fiji people think, and if they again vote as they always have, along ethnic lines, then based on the current demographics, SODELPA will win! So it will be back to square one, if SODELPA wins? Will Mr Bainimarama and the military accept this result? After all, didnt they carry out the coup in 2006 to remove the SDL(SODELPA) and do a clean-up on them? And then will there be another coup to clean this up again? And id so, then what was the point of the last eight years? And was all the pain and suffering in vain? What a load of non-sense and a waste of all our time? But one never knows, as some people tell me that the people of Fiji have changed, and now they understand the need for racial equality and religious tolerance, and are more politically aware now, and will vote on issues, rather than along racial lines. And I hope they are right, for the sake of Democracy. We shall see! * Nik Naidu is spokeman for the Coalition for Democracy in Fiji (CDF), an Auckland-based human rights group. The views expressed in this article are his personal views, and not necessarily those of the CDF.

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INDIA

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Election Commission sets the ball rolling

Indian General elections announced for April 7-May 12
General Elections
EC officials said various factors like school examinations, holidays, festivals (mainly Bihu in Assam), harvest season in some parts of the country and the weather forecast, particularly about monsoon, had to be taken into consideration. Moreover, the availability of security forces and time taken by them to move from one state to another were also important, said Chief Election Commissioner V S Sampath. A staggering 81.4 crore voters, almost 10 crore more than the last Lok Sabha polls, will be eligible to cast their votes this time. According to EC officials, there been a remarkable increase in the enrolment of voters in the age group of 18 to 19 years, with over 2.3 crore voters falling in this age group. As many as 28,314 transgenders enrolled as others, 11,844 overseas electors and 13.28 lakh service electors will also vote during these polls. With an almost 12 per cent increase from last time, the number of polling stations has increased from 8.3 lakh to 9.3 lakh. The model code of conduct came into force as soon as the poll schedule was announced. He added that the model code of conduct is an instrument to ensure that the level-playing field is not disturbed. Here are the highlights: # Counting of LS polls will take place on May 16: EC. # Elections to be held on April 7, 9, 10, 12, 17, 24, 30, May 7 and May 12. # 9 polls days will cover 543 constituencies and respective Assembly constituencies. # EC has taken measures for expenditure monitoring. Use of money power is a matter of concern: CEC # NOTA facility will be given in 2014 general elections: CEC # There are nine lakh 30 thousand polling stations, which is 12 per cent more than the polling stations in 2009 elections: CEC. # The total electorate is 814 million, 10 crores more than the last Parliament election: EC. # EC says 16th Lok Sabha has to be in place before May 31.

2014

or the first time, the Lok Sabha elections will be held in nine phases from April 7 to May 12. Announcing the poll schedule on Wednesday, the Election Commisson of India said counting of votes will be done on May 16 and the results will be announced on the same day. Assembly elections will also be held simultaneously in the states ofAndhra Pradesh, including the Telangana region, Orissa and Sikkim. While a bulk of the polling in as many as 525 constituencies will take place on six days, only 18 constituencies will vote on the remaining three polling days. The maximum number of constituencies (122 across 13 states) will vote on April 17, followed by 117 constituencies across 12 states on April 24. Most of the constituencies in the Naxalaffected states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa and Bihar will vote on April 10, April 17 and April 24. In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, polling will be held on six days. In West Bengal and Jammu & Kashmir (which has only six constituencies), polling will be held on five days. The total number of days for the entire electoral process has been brought down from 75 days in 2009 to 72 days this time.

Indias 9 phase election process will start on April 7th and last phase will end on May 12th.

Kejriwals detention in Modi land sparks violent clashes

ours after the Election Commission (EC) announced the dates for the upcoming Lok Sabha election, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers clashed with each other in several parts of the country including Delhi, Lucknow and Gujarat, reports said. Kejriwals detention in Modi land sparked violent clashes between BJP, AAP in three states. Amid clashes between Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in different parts of the country, party supremo and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal apologised for the involvement of his party workers in violence across states following his detention and said they should not involved in such activities. AAP workers shouldnt have protested today. I regret for it, Kejriwal told reporters, however, he added the Gujarat Police detained him for no reason. The BJP also urged its workers to stay calm. BJP president Rajnath Singh, appealed to all

party karyakartas in the country to stay calm and peaceful. While, the AAP activists alleged that the Gujarat government played politics to prevent them from holding rallies in the state, Gujarat Police denied detaining Kejriwal and his supporters and said that it was merely checking. The Model Code of Conduct is in force. Therefore, you need a permit to hold a rally. We did not detain him. We were merely checking if he had permit, DIG Parikshita Rathore said. Kejriwal reached Gujarat on a four-day visit to check development claims made by state CM and BJPs prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi.

Poll trail: Jayalalithaa calls up Mamata

T
amil Nadu chief minister and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) supremo J Jayalalithaa has reportedly called up West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee over the Lok Sabha elections, said reports on Friday. A day after AIADMK chief and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa snapped her pre-poll alliance with the Left Front, sources have said that she called West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee and wished her for the coming Lok Sabha polls, said the news channel. Mamata had said that she wanted Jaya to be a part of the Federal Front. Mamata had also said that Jayalalithaa could even be a Prime Ministerial candidate of the Federal Front, it said. Banerjee on Thursday said she has no problem working with Jayalalithaa or Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati following the situation after the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. I am very much open to working with all...I have no problem at all..We can work together, Banerjee told Times Now news channel. When asked whether she is ready to support the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister if she wants to become the Prime Minister of the country, Banerjee said: I have no problem. I dont bother the chair, I care for the people. She said she will like to see good governance.

Mamata Banerjee & J Jayalalithaa

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

INDIA

27

Pranab appoints Sheila Dikshit as Kerala Governor

P
resident Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday appointed former Delhi Chief Minister SheilaDikshit as the Governor of Kerala. The President has accepted the resignation of Shri Nikhil Kumar, Governor of Kerala, with immediate effect, said a statement issued by the Presidents Secretariat on Wednesday. The President has also been pleased to make ... Smt. Sheila Dixit as Governor of Kerala vice Shri Nikhil Kumar, the statement said. This comes as a last ditch effort to shield Dikshit, as this might just be one of the last decisions the UPA government has made before exiting the 15th Lok Sabha in May, later this year. Mukherjee appointed Karnataka Governor H.R. Bhardwaj to discharge the functions of the Governor of Kerala until a new Governor takes charge. Uttar Pradesh Governor B.L. Joshi was appointed as the Governor of the same state for a second term with effect from the date of him assuming charge. Dikshit served as the Chief Minister of Delhi from 1998 to 2013. In the Delhi Assembly polls last year, the Congress leader lost to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal. Sheila Dikshit sworn in

Rahul is an agent of change: Nandan

A
day after he formally joined the Congress party, Infosys co-founder and Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) chief Nandan Nilekani on Monday said partys vice president Rahul Gandhi is an agent of change. Rahul Gandhis ideas are revolutionary. He is an agent of change and has brilliant ideas, Nilekani told the media. Nilekani said that he intended to partner Rahul in making that change happen. When asked why he chose to contest election on Congress ticket when there is anti-UPA wave in the country, Nileknai told the channel that he joined the party because his ideology is in sync with that Congress ideology, adding that the party has secular liberal value. Even before joining, he bagged the Lok Sabha polls ticket and will contest the election from Bangalore South against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s Ananth Kumar. His name featured in Congresss first list of candidates. Bangalore needs a strong champion in Delhi... Everywhere people tell me they want change Nilekani told reporters after joining the party.

Sahara chief Subrata Roy AAP, Cong have cosy relationship: Jaitley sent to jail in Delhi
S
ahara group chief Subrata Roy will have to remain in jail for some more time with the Supreme Court deferring hearing of the Rs 20,000 crore refund case that was slated for March 11 until a proper proposal is submitted to the Supreme Court. Adding more troubles to Sahara Group chief Subrata Roy, the Supreme Court will not be taking up his case with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on Tuesday as was scheduled, media reports said. The Supreme Court on Mar 7 rejected Sahara Groups proposal to pay its investors in installments in a time-bound manner. The Sahara Group on Friday moved the Supreme Court and said it is ready to pay Rs 2500 cr in three working days and the rest of the amount in an-year-and-a-half. The apex court had asked Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to give its opinion on the matter. The SEBI reportedly opposed to the proposal. The Supreme Court on Mar 4 sent Roy and two other company directors to judicial custody till Mar 11. The apex court had asked the Sahara group to come up with a proposal to repay the money which it owes to its investors. The detention of the fourth respondent, Vandana Bhargava was not ordered as she has been given a concession for being a woman director.

Subrata Roy Accusing Sahara Group of playing hide and seek, the Supreme Court on Oct 29 asked the group to hand over the title deeds of its properties worth Rs 20,000 crore to the SEBI. Hearing contempt petitions filed by the SEBI for not complying with the Aug 31, 2012 directions on refund of deposits, the court had ruled that Sahara chief Subrata Roy cannot leave the country without the permission of the court. The Supreme Court sent Sahara Group chief Subrata Roy and two other company directors to judicial custody till March 11.

enior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley accused that the Congress and Arvind Kejriwals Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) share a cozy relationship following the Assembly polls in Delhi last year. After an electoral contest in Delhi in December, 2013 Assembly elections, the AAP and the Congress have a cozy relationship. The Congress Party announced an unconditional support to AAP. Its State leaders were willing to issue statements against the AAP but unwilling to strike. The AAP was willing to register an FIR against Smt. Sheila Dikshit and other Congress leaders. The police organization where the FIR was registered was without jurisdiction. The Congress conventionally had a support of antiBJP section of the intelligentsia. This section now had pinned its hopes on AAP as a possible contender for challenging Shri Narendra Modi, Jaitley said in a blog post. He said the AAP is targeting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi during its campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. During the last few weeks, the AAP has started a campaign at the national level. The entire focus of the campaign is against BJP and Shri Narendra Modi. Its leaders Shri Arvind Kejriwal declared that Communalism is more dangerous than corruption. This was a clear indication for his preference for the Congress and animus against the BJP. The entire thrust of his speeches whether at Delhi, UP or Gujarat has been on how to stop Narendra Modi.

He said the Congress partys campaign for the polls was on the backfoot. The Congress meanwhile is running an insipid campaign. Its leadership is lackluster. Its campaign is on the backfoot. The entire focus of the media debate is the political struggle between the BJP and the AAP. Obviously, Congress has a vote bank much bigger than AAP. AAP is only struggling to make its presence felt. It may not even be a spoiler. It tactics target maximum media publicity. Its presence in the media is higher than congress. Amongst a particular section it has started occupying media space much higher than the Congress, Jaitley said. Even though the Congress may feel that the AAP is doing what the Congress is failing to do, it has ended up scoring a self-goal. The BJP remains a comfortable front runner. It occupies the non-Congress space. More and more non-Congress groups are joining the BJP. Whatever media and vote space the AAP gains, it eats into the non-BJP space. There are multiple players vying for the non-BJP space. The Congress, AAP, Left, BSP and the SP are the principal contenders for this space. AAP, by attempting to occupy non-BJP space, hurts the other non-BJP players more. The Congress is encouraging the AAP but it is today stamping on the Congresss foot. The BJP constituency is intact and expanding. The Congress and AAP have a cozy relationship, but by dividing the non-BJP space, they will develop a self defeating relationship, he said.

28

Back to the future

Arvind Kumar

FIJI

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

SODELPA leader outlines bold plans to return Fiji to legitimate constitutional rule at the September general election

IJIs still a dictatorship despite coup leader Commodore Frank Bainimarama having stepped down as the head of the countrys armed forces, says the leader of one of the major political parties. He remains interim Prime Minister. Ro Teimumu Kepa, president and leader the Social Democratic Liberal Party, told delegates at the partys general assembly in Suva last week. We should remind ourselves that despite the change at the RFMF, Fiji is still a dictatorship. Decisions are made by the few, there is no consultation with political parties, information is withheld, and oppressive, anti-democratic laws remain in place. Military officers occupy many crucial positions in government, said Ro Teimumu, who is high ranking chief in her own right. Ro Teimumu also announced bold plans to reinstate the disbanded Great Council of Chiefs, and also hold accountable the perpetrators of the 2006 coups should SODELPA lead the next government. We urge Commodore Bainimarama in his role as interim prime minister to do the right thing by the country and the people. He should move now to address these problems and create the right environment for the elections. Outlining her partys plans as a future government, Ro Teimumu welcomed the support of potential partners in a coalition, the Fiji Labour Party and the National Federation Party all united in the political movement known as the United Front for a Democratic Fiji. Ro Teimumu said with the support of her Cabinet partners, SODELPA would attempt to right the wrongs of the past seven years, including a reconciliation process with the perpetrators of the 2006 coup, and possible prosecution of those unrepentant of their actions. These included reinstating the Bose Levu Vakaturaga (Great Council of Chiefs), which was disbanded by Bainimarama. A reconciliation process will be started for those directly involved and implicated in the unlawful removal of the elected government and state officials in the 2006 coup and in subsequent illegal activities and unwarranted acts of terrorism. This process will be available to those prepared, as a genuine act of contrition, to admit wrong-doing and guilt to their innocent victims. To all criminal acts of the recalcitrant and for those who were involved in acts of gross violation of human rights, the law and justice will take its normal course. No one is above the law. My friends, there comes a moment in the life of a nation when its people are called to make great decisions to protect and save their homeland. That moment has arrived for Fiji, Ro Teimumu said. We are called now to save our country. Ro Teimumu said she was now ready to guide the country back to democratic and constitutional rule.

I am so very honoured to be elected unanimously to lead SODELPA and sincerely thank other candidates who withdrew in my favour. Ro Teimumu said those who took over the state and its government by force of arms were still seen as a threat. They will be reluctant to give up their power. We must show them that we have power as well. It is the sovereign power of the people; this is the highest authority and it will prevail. All of us, walking side by side, will put right the wrongs of the last seven years. EXCERPTS On Wednesday we witnessed the resignation from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces of Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama. We welcome that. We look forward to taking him on in a free and fair election and subjecting him to a resounding defeat. His successor, Brigadier-General Mosese Tikoitoga, has pledged that the military will be independent, above politics, and respect the will of the people. We will hold him to that. I invite Brigadier-General TIkoitoga to immediately make a solemn declaration that under his command there will be no more beatings, no more threats and no more unwelcome trips to the barracks. He needs to do this in light of continuing public fears and concerns. Ro Teimumu said God was the source of divine blessing not only for us as individuals and members of communities, but also for Fiji as a nation. The elected leaders in Parliament who promulgated the constitutions of 1970 and 1997 all recognized this fundamental and eternal truth. And they made sure this was acknowledged in the preamble to these constitutions. Contrast this wisdom of our nations former leaders, all democratically elected by the people, to the arrogance of Commodore Bainimarama and his unelected oligarchy. They see no place for God in their 2013 Constitution. They made this decision without the permission of the people and then declared that it had our approval. How dare they? By what right did they say we had agreed? Ro Teimumu said the BainimaramaKhaiyum constitution was casting a shadow over the soul of Fiji. I ask Commodore Bainimarama to tell us why the Fiji Military Forces are not subject to the same religious restrictions? Why is the Police Force also exempt? Why are both these institutions allowed to pray together when that liberty is denied to others? This is gross discrimination on such a profoundly sensitive matter. Let me, therefore, give this undertaking. If you give SODELPA victory in the general elections, our very first action will be to take steps to restore God to His rightful place in our countrys supreme law. The oligarchy in power was afraid to allow the people of Fiji the freedom, through a

referendum, to have the final say on the general acceptability of their Bainimarama and SaiyedKhaiyum draft constitution. So today we have a constitution that lacks democratic legitimacy. It is a unilateral promulgation that is further compromised in terms of morality and justice in its provisions deliberately intended to protect the self-interest of the ruling elite. We will ask the Supreme Court for an advisory opinion on the status in law of the 1997 Constitution. Through the collective power of the peoples vote we expect a clear demonstration that citizens of Fiji overwhelmingly agree with the judgment by Fijis Court of Appeal in April 2009. This declared that Commodore Bainimaramas acts in forcibly removing the elected SDL-led multi-party Government in December 2006 and unilateral assumption of power as Prime Minister, were unconstitutional and unlawful. And here, let us recall the incisive and memorable comments by Justice Gates in the High Court when giving his judgment in the Chandrika Prasad case in November 2000 and in the Jokapeci Koroi case in August 2001. Justice Gates said that the 1997 Constitution was immutable and indestructible and can only be changed or revoked by the same procedural way through which it was promulgated---and that is by the elected representatives of the people in Parliament. With your unwavering support and those of our political partners, a SODELPAled Government will restore very important expressions of historical facts contained in the democratically promulgated 1970 and 1997 constitutions. These were deliberately excluded by Commodore Bainimarama and his AttorneyGeneral from their 2013 Constitution. They referred to those momentous events in our countrys history that have significantly contributed to what we are today as a vibrant multi-cultural and multi-religious society, enriched by diversity. SODELPA will ensure that the special place and contribution of our different constituent communities are duly acknowledged and recognized in our supreme law. We will recognise the settlement of our islands by the indigenous Fijian and Rotuman communities and their subsequent acceptance and adoption of Christianity as the spiritual foundation of their way of life. Along with this are their customs and traditions passed on through successive generations from time immemorial. Also honoured in our history is the arrival of other communities to settle and to make Fiji their home. They brought with them their religions, their customs and traditions. Through their labour and sacrifice and their enterprise and entrepreneurship they have contributed outstandingly to Fijis status as the most economically advanced country in the Pacific islands region.

Against this historical background commits itself to building a prosperous and unified nation, based on democratic values, the rule of law, fundamental human rights and social justice to ensure equal opportunities for all. Specifically, the following foundational principles will be SODELPAs constant guide: The freedom, equality and dignity of all individuals as fellow citizens, The freedom, equality and dignity of all religions and religious denominations; The equality and dignity of all communities, their freedom to promote their languages and customary practices, and the protection through appropriate legislation of their cultural heritage and intellectual property; The right and freedom of the mass media to keep those who exercise the government, legislative and judicial power of the state fully accountable to the ordinary people; Recognition and support for the important roles played by non-governmental organizations and special interest groups in raising and promoting community concerns and causes; The right and freedom of employers, their workers and unions to organise themselves in pursuance of their collective interests. Let me now tell you of our priority action plan for our first one hundred days in office if you, our members and supporters, give us the majority in the elections. To demonstrate our commitment to serving everyone and all communities in Fiji, SODELPA will resume the multi-party Cabinet which our predecessor, the SDL party, had started with the Fiji Labour Party in 2006 following the general elections in May that year. SODELPA will issue invitations to likeminded parties to join in a voluntary coalition government for national healing, reconciliation and unity. Ro Teimumu said their first legislative action would be to revoke all current restrictive decrees on fundamental freedoms and political and civic rights. We shall also instantly remove all the restrictions which Commodore Bainimarama and the Military had imposed on the Methodist Church. We will ensure a judiciary that is truly independent and which is able to function without unwarranted limitations on its jurisdiction. Only then can ordinary citizens be assured of effective justice for all in the protection of their fundamental rights and freedoms. As I have already stated we shall be seeking advice from the Supreme Court on the status in law of the 1997 Constitution. We shall also undertake a comprehensive review of the legality of the Fiji National Provident Funds unilateral reductions of pension entitlements and ensure that pension contractual agreements are honoured. We will engender more transparency and accountability for members on how their funds are used.

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

FIJI

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To demonstrate our commitment to serving everyone and all communities in Fiji, SODELPA will resume the multi-party Cabinet which our predecessor, the SDL party, had started with the Fiji Labour Party in 2006 following the general elections in May that year.
Ro Teimumu Kepa, at the helm of SODELPA Recognizing the importance of giving as many of our students fair and equal opportunity for higher level tertiary education, the SODELPA-led multi-party government will reinstate the FAB scholarship scheme and the multi-ethnic scholarship programme for eligible students from low income families. With the support of multi-party Cabinet partners, we shall reinstate the Bose Levu Vakaturaga as the apex consultative body of the indigenous Fijian and Rotuman communities. We shall also enact legislation to protect the cultural heritage and intellectual property of our indigenous communities given the collective communal nature of the ownership of these rights. Not content with overthrowing the elected government and parliament under the 1997 Constitution, Commodore Bainimarama took over the chairmanship of the ILTB and created a land bank in the Department of Lands. In its operation it has effectively taken powers away from the ITLB, undermining the Boards exercise of its statutory responsibility to protect the best interests of indigenous land owners and natural resource owners. The SODELPA-led government will abolish the Land Use Decree which effectively alienates native lands from the ILTB. We will revoke the Mahogany Decree which has effectively marginalized the mahogany landowners. Authority and decisions on mahogany plantations are with a Mahogany Council controlled by Bainimarama and Khaiyum. We will ensure that the chair of the i-Taukei Land Trust Board is chosen by the landowners in a consultative process with our government. We will strengthen the role of the Board and review the present system of distribution of lease money which has disempowered our Turaga ni Mataqali, Turaga ni Yavusa and Turaga iTaukei and is effectively destroying the communal foundation of indigenous Fijian society. As another top priority, SODELPA and the multi-party government we envisage, will hold immediate consultations both within Cabinet and with the ITLB and the Bose Levu Vakaturaga, on a comprehensive long term solution to agricultural leases under ALTA. Ro Teimumu said a SODELPA-led multiparty government would also seek traditional reconciliation meetings with the Military under its new leadership. As leader, it is not my role to dictate or to direct. On the contrary, my role is to listen, to be patient, to encourage free discussions. I must ensure that no one is excluded and everyone is heard so that a decision is reached. This procedure of consultation and consensus is how decisions are normally made in Cabinet and in traditional gatherings like the Bose Levu Vakaturaga. Compare this to the dictatorial decisionmaking we are seeing in the current unelected government. Our government and multi-party cabinet will also uphold our collective responsibility and accountability to parliament and to the people. We will never do what Commodore Bainimarama and his unelected government are currently unashamedly doing. Nepotism and cronyism in top public service appointments are unprecedented. Only a few people know the salaries and other perks paid to individual ministers. They are not talking. There is no independently audited account of government revenue and expenditure and no independently verified account of government borrowings and contingency undertakings like loan guarantees. Again only a handful of people in the regimes inner circle have the details of the true state of governments solvency. My message to you, our party members and supporters and, indeed, to all registered voters throughout Fiji, is clear. If you wish to rid Fiji of dictatorial rule which has been based on imposition, threats, intimidation and fear, make your vote count by voting for SODELPA and its prospective partners in government. Ladies and gentlemen, there is much more to come from SODELPA. All will be revealed at the right time. My final comments are reserved for the SODELPA Youth Council Delegates. They are led by a fearless activist, Pita Waqavonovono, who is well known nationally. Pita and your team: We are proud of you; carry our banner high for the young people of this country; tell them the truth, bring them into the fold and encourage them to take a full role in civic affairs and politics. You are SODELPAs Young Patriots, dedicated to advancing a new form of national spirit founded on a patriotic love of country and the ideals and values of the Fiji we will build together. I share a bond with Pita. Both of us have been taken to the barracks. At some point he may wish to tell you about his experience. In mid-2009, 16 policemen took me from my home in the dead of night. I was first placed in a cell at the Central Police Station and later moved to another cell. This one was at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks. My transgression was to offer, on behalf of Rewa, to host that years Methodist Conference. This was supposedly against the law. But I refused to withdraw the invitation to the Church. That was why I ended up in a cell. A youngish soldier came to interrogate me. I could tell he was not very experienced. I asked him what he was doing, and what kind of legacy he wanted to leave to Fiji and his children? He did not answer, but hung his head. I then said to him, young man, I am going to pray for you. His answer was, Dont pray for me. Pray for Fiji. Ladies and gentlemen, Pita and your team, we should all continue to pray for our country. We should pray for that confused soldier, that he may be freed from his shame and receive enlightenment. We should pray that the young of today transform the legacy we give to these islands into something wonderful. God be with us.

Parliament to be relocated to Govt Bldgs

arliament is set to make a return to the hub of the Capital City this year. Government has announced the old Parliament at Government Buildings will be renovated to house Fijis first 50-member Parliament under the new Constitution following the proposed general election in September this year. Attorney-General and Minister Responsible for Elections Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said renovation works would start soon while the total cost of the relocation has yet to be released. The new Parliament that will sit under the 2013 Constitution after the elections, and a decision has been made that Parliament will now be moved, Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said. It already has the infrastructure thats in place. It has its own separate entrance. Its part of the Government Building complex, closer to the Prime Ministers Office. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said with the relocation of the Parliament to the Government Building, Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal and the Family Court will be moved to the Veiuto complex. He said while $1million was allocated by Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama in the 2014 nation Budget for the refurbishment of the Parliament Complex in Veiuto, the cost for this relocation would be minimal compared to what would have been spent on renovating the parliamentary complex in Veiuto. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said the moving of the courts will provide more privacy to people who have matters before those courts. In respect of the Parliament being relocated to the Government Buildings, it also

means that the various political parties that will have their political party offices, they will be a lot more accessible to members of the public. It is walking distance from the bus stand; its near the media organisations, closer to town so it provides lots more accessibility to members of the public. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum also confirmed some donor countries have offered to help support the set-up. -Fiji Times

30

EDUCATION FEATURE

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

Outstanding student feedback

N
ew Zealand Tertiary College sent out our bi-annual student survey last October to gauge our students satisfaction with the services we provide. The feedback has since been analysed and is now being used to inform the development of our programs and support services. 29% of the survey respondents were international students, which was a fantastic response considering international students make up 25% of our total student body. Students shared their thoughts on every aspect of College life, including: first point of contact orientation block courses field practice support services course content and assessments graduation We were delighted to see our international students commenting that their NZTC experience has met - and often exceeded their expectations. These are excellent results which affirm our dedication to supporting our international students from enrolment to graduation.

Take a look at the responses for the questions below:

Apply to study one of our specialist early childhood programs today and become another one of our satisfied students! Call (09) 520 4000 or email international@nztertiarycollege.ac.nz

Deputy Prime Minister to open SITs new Student Accommodation

S
outhern Institute of Technology (SIT) is excited to announce the official opening of the newly built student accommodation complex located at Copperbeech Road, Remarkables Park, Queenstown on Friday 28 February 2014. The accommodation will be declared open by Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand, the Honourable Bill English along with SIT Chief Executive, Ms Penny Simmonds amongst a small but distinguished gathering of dignitaries and prominent business representatives from Invercargill and the Southern Lakes district. SIT Council Deputy Chair Mr Peter Heenan will be present at the opening ceremony to welcome the dignitaries on behalf of the institute. SIT decided to build this apartment complex to support the increased influx of students into their Queenstown campus. The variety of programmes on offer along with the thrills and adventure of living in Queenstown has seen the campus grow from strength to strength. Queenstown is a well known tourist destination around the world. Our international partners know of Queenstown, so this makes it the ideal location for international students, especially those that are seeking a career in hospitality and hotel management commented Ms Simmonds. She further stated that SIT has invested close to 3.5 million dollars to build this accommodation. Ms Simmonds also said that comfortable, warm and affordable accommodation was the biggest

SIT Hotel Management students give back to the community

NEW ZEALAND

From L-R: Vinay Sood SIT International Marketing Manager, Deputy Prime Minister Honourable Bill English, SIT CEO Penny Simmonds. determent for students to study in Queenstown. Our new apartments now overcome this barrier and we can already see the benefits this brings to our students and the wider community in Queenstown. This new student accommodation is conveniently located almost opposite the SIT Queenstown campus, only 5 minutes walking distance away. It houses 54 beds located in nine bright and stylish units- each with three furnished double rooms, an ensuite off each bedroom, full kitchen facilities, washing machine and dryer. The biggest bonus for the students is that the electricity costs are included in the rent, making the apartments an ideal choice for domestic and international students alike.

outhern Institute of Technology year three Bachelor of Hotel Management students use their event management assignment to help co-ordinate and market the Wyndham races that are being held Sunday March 16 at Wyndham Racecourse. The event is free entry to all with a $1000 hole in one competition being held at 11.30am prior to commencement of the racing which kicks off at 12.30pm.There will also be free kids entertainment including a kids dress up with their favourite toy fashion in the field. Other activities include an innovative and creative car boot competition. The hotel management students have been working on this event for the past three weeks. They have organised all the entertainment activities, promotion and marketing of the event. Students designed their own signage from start to finish in the new 5.5 million dollar SIT trades facilities. They also designed and printed their own posters and flyers and distributed

them around the Southland community. This included writing and delivering personalised invitation letters to businesses and residents in the Wyndham community. Tutor Patrice Spencer-Humm stated This experience gives our students very relevant practical experience for those who want to be involved in the events industry. Its a very good industry for students to get involved in due to large industry sector growth. The reason for choosing the Wyndham races was that they wanted the opportunity to help a Southland community group as part of the assignment and the timing of this event fitted perfectly with the class schedule SIT student Ryan Zhang from China said Its very cool to be able to hold a real event and get practical experience. I am glad I made the move from China to SIT as this experience has helped me set up a career in events management anywhere in the world.

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

FEATURE
Fixtures Fri Mar 21 13:30 GMT Group 2 - India vs Pakistan Sat Mar 22 09:30 GMT Group 1 - South Africa vs Sri Lanka Sat Mar 22 13:30 GMT Group 1 - England vs New Zealand Sun Mar 23 09:30 GMT Group 2 - Pakistan vs Australia Sun Mar 23 13:30 GMT Group 2 - West Indies vs India Mon Mar 24 09:30 GMT Group 1 - New Zealand vs South Africa Mon Mar 24 13:30 GMT Group 1 - Sri Lanka vs Qualifier B1 Tue Mar 25 13:30 GMT Group 2 - West Indies vs Qualifier A1 Thu Mar 27 09:30 GMT Group 1 - South Africa vs Qualifier B1 Thu Mar 27 13:30 GMT Group 1 - England vs Sri Lanka Fri Mar 28 09:30 GMT Group 2 - West Indies vs Australia Fri Mar 28 13:30 GMT Group 2 - India vs Qualifier A1 Sat Mar 29 09:30 GMT Group 1 - New Zealand vs Qualifier B1 Sat Mar 29 13:30 GMT Group 1 - England vs South Africa Sun Mar 30 09:30 GMT Group 2 - Pakistan vs Qualifier A1 Sun Mar 30 13:30 GMT Group 2 - India vs Australia Mon Mar 31 09:30 GMT Group 1 - England vs Qualifier B1 Mon Mar 31 13:30 GMT Group 1 - Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Tue Apr 1 09:30 GMT Group 2 - Australia vs Qualifier A1 Tue Apr 1 13:30 GMT Group 2 - West Indies vs Pakistan Thu Apr 3 13:00 GMT 1st Semi Final Fri Apr 4 13:00 GMT 2nd Semi Final Sun Apr 6 13:00 GMT Final T20 (Reserve Day 7th April)

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ICC World Twenty20 kicks off in Bangladesh

T
he shortest and most popular version of the game of cricket is back, as the World T20 competition rolls out in Bangladesh next week. It is scheduled to be held from Mar 16 to Apr 6. The first game of the tournament will feature an ever blockbuster, the India-Pakistan tie, with the two teams being beaten out by the Sri Lankans in the recent Asia Cup, there will certainly be thirst for the trophy. New Zealand, are looking good with their superior bowling unit and a trump card in Corey Anderson. The reigning World T20 champions West Indies have managed to retain much of the core from their World Cup winning team from October 2012, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Among the other teams competing in the tournament top ranked Sri Lanka, and South Africa will be the teams to beat.

The tournament, which begins on March 16th with the Qualifiers, will start with the Super10 stage on March 21. The final will be played on April 6, at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

Mareech ka khel : a new ending

Every Mareech, may not have the same fate. Thats the crux of what this play had to say. Mareech Ka Khel, is a very interesting adaptation of one of the fables from the Ramayana, about the demon Mareech who turned good. Due to pressure put by the demon king Ravana, Mareech agrees to play sinister and help him in the abduction of Sita. The same story moves with a modern angle when a US based NRI is forced to hide the writings of her father, which raised question on the fairness of the US democracy. She finally succumbs to the pressure and commits suicide. The same story is shown to repeat itself in the Zamindari system time of India (19201970s) and even now in some parts of India. The poor farmer (played by master actor, Chirag Singh Solanki), is used in the same way by the Zamindar or headman of the village. He is asked to help the headman to create riots in the village and create dispute between people. He however refuses to bow down. He challenges the sutradhaar (author), by saying that why does he have to bow to the evil side? The play leaves the audience wondering over the poignant question, that dont we control our fate by our decisions? As a production, this was a very professional play, with great actors, good script and live music. director Jayanta Bhaduri deserves a bow. The live music composed by Amit Sen Gupta added a very refreshing element to the play. Rangmanchs main feat has been to be able to get local talent to perform and giving them a platform in professional theatre. Pavitra Roy, the president has got a great team together to perform on stage. The show was nearly house full on both days and was well received by the audience. Even though the play was entertaining, with the comic touches, I would have preferred a more crisp ending. All the scenes could have been more tightly presented. Maybe another milestone in the journey of Rangmanch.
Photo credits : Arpit Joshi

Review

AMA presents Eka Lagnachi Goshta to commemorate World Theatre Day

A
uckland Marathi Association Inc. (AMA) represents Marathi speaking Diaspora in Auckland. AMA has produced Community theatre plays for more than 12 years now. Every year, the theatre enthusiastic AMA members get together to produce, professional theatre quality plays. The direction, staging, sound and lights and the acting in the play is entirely performed by the patrons of AMA. This year, to commemorate the World Theatre Day (27th March), Auckland Marathi Association is presenting a super hit Marathi Drama EkaLagnachiGoshta on 29th March 2014, at Avondale theatre. The Drama is going to be show-cased by none other than the original actors in lead role, Mr. Prashant Damle and Ms.Kavita Lad Medhekar. Prashant Damle, Kavita Lad and two technicians are invited by the AMA Executive Committee to entertain the Auckland Audience. These people are coming to Auckland from Mumbai. There have been more than 1600 shows performed for EkaLagnachiGoshta across the world. Prashant Damle is a renowned Marathi theatre and television actor, associated with theatre since 1983. Prashant Damle is a live example of what a determined man is capable of achieving if he puts his heart,mind, body and soul into the endeavour. He has been awarded many prestigious awards in his career span. Ms.Kavita Lad Medhekar, is a renowned Marathi Theatre, television and film actress. She is highly popular with her Television roles and her super-hit Marathi Dramas. Her acting in Marathi Movie Sukhant and Marathi TV serials, has been highly appreciated. The team from Mumbai will be supported by the local talented actors by performing the supporting roles in the drama. The EkaLagnachiGoshta Auckland production is directed by AMA member Mr. Bipin Chavan. Bipin has directed and acted in several plays for AMA. The talented members acting in the play are; Bipin Chavan, PinakiNaik, Vijay Parulkar, Jayashree Sonar, BinitaRedey, Sunil Joshi, Vishal Patil and ManishaKolhe. Our member Mr. Pushkar Kulkarni volunteered to act as a proxy for the lead actor Mr. Prashant Damles role. AMA is very proud of the local actors and is highly grateful for the commitment they have shown over many months. Auckland Marathi Association Executive Committee is inviting all the Marathi language lovers for the super-hit play EkaLagnachiGoshta. This is the first kind of Marathi Natak being performed, with original lead actors, in New Zealand. Your presence will be highly appreciated. The success of this Marathi Natak with professional actors will see the onset of professional Marathi plays in New Zealand. The lead actors have specifically send invite for NatyaRasiks saying NakkiYa (please do come) . The tickets are available at YogijisFoodmart, Mt. Roskill, or email nzmarathi@gmail.com to avail the premium seats and book the general admission tickets 6:00 pm onwards on Saturday, 29th March Avondale Theatre, 47 Victor Street, Avondale High School, Auckland

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Bollywood Diary
Vidya named IFFM Awards ambassador
he 2014 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) is proud to announce the establishment of an international competition in 2014 with the presentation of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne Awards. The festival is the southern hemispheres greatest annual celebration of Indian cinema and takes place from Thursday 1 to Friday 11 May.

Actress Vidya Balan returns in 2014 as Festival Ambassador. Vidya Balan will be in Melbourne to launch the festival program on March 28. The inaugural Indian Film Festival Awards (IFFM Awards) is the first Indian cinema awards of its kind in Australia. A select number of narrative feature films will be invited into competition

Farhan-Deepika in Coca-Cola ad

oca-Cola has launched a new campaign Choti ho ya badi, har khushi mein Coca-Cola, featuring the country`s heartthrobs and youth icons Farhan Akhtar and Deepika Padukone and is directed by filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. The campaign sees the two actors liven up the screen with their chemistry and engaging interactions in some everyday situations which have them cherish and rejoice the little joys of life with a bottle of refreshing Coca-Cola.

Deepika said, When I think of brand Coca-Cola the feeling of optimism and joy immediately resonates. The beauty of brand Coca-Cola is the fact that it stands for values, which are very simple yet very powerful. VVFarhan said: What stands out about brand Coca-Cola is its universal appeal. No matter where in the world you are, Coca-Cola is synonymous with celebration and joy.

Hrithik Roshan finds a replacement for Sussanne Khan?

o! We arent talking about finding a life partner here. Hrithik Roshan, will be moving out of his eighth floor apartment in El Palazzo. In the same building, his parents Rakesh Roshan and Pinky Roshan reside on the ninth floor. The actor will be temporarily moving into Prime Beach Apartments in Juhu. Hrithik moving out has nothing to do with his separation from his wife Sussanne Khan. The actor is moving out as his apartment in El Palazzo is under renovation.

Well, this time around, Hrithiks apartment isnt being done by Sussanne but John Abrahams brother Alan Abraham will be renovating it. Hrithiks estranged wife Sussanne is an interior designer, who has not only designed several celebrity homes but also his El Palazzo apartment before. Well, does Hrithik want no reminders of his relationship gone kaput which is why he replaced Sussanne with a new designer, we wonder.

Sunny Leone on Comedy Nights

elebrities often make an appearance on Kapil Sharmas popular comedy show to promote their upcoming films. But in December last year, reports stated that the comedian didnt want Sunny Leone to share the stage with him. She was promoting her film, Jackpot (2013), at the time. But the equation seems to have changed. An insider says, Sunny will be on the show to promote Ragini MMS 2. Producer Ekta Kapoor, too, will accompany her. Ekta has heard a lot about Kapils show and has agreed to be part of it, though she doesnt

like to be in the limelight. The channel and Kapil wanted Ekta to make an appearance as they want youth icons on the show, not just Bollywood celebrities. The duo will shoot for the episode in a day or two.

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Saturday 10th May 2014

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She came, she sang and she left Aucklanders wanting more
Sunidhi Chauhan offers an edgy, interesting note to the usual high-pitch octave in Bollywood playback

hile Sunidhi was in Auckland recently, it was evident that she has a bit of a rock chick in her. Sticking to black, ripped jeans, cropped hair, it was all there - dovetailing nicely with the alternative vibe and the unmistakable husky voice. While her on-stage improvisations may not have worked each time, the singer struck a chord with the audience at the Logan Campbell Centre. She kept her energy levels consistently high and the show warmed-up somewhat in the second half. It worked best for Sunidhi when she was herself on stage. Veering off that persona and niche comes with the risk of losing the audiences attention whore used to her trademark style. She was able to strike gold with her soulful numbers. The tried and tested hits, delivered with practised ease proved to be the best received ones. For those new to the narrative, the singer is a product of those charming days when reality TV formats around singing and wannabe singers were still in their infancy. These days, one song sensations from reality TV shows seem to be swallowed up by black holes of obscurity almost as soon as they step out of the whirl-wind of show promotions and those post-win album deals. So, from a start as a contestant to still going strong in an increasingly competitive Bollywood play-back landscape, Sunidhi is certainly getting something right. Critics may argue that the Singers popularity is declining, but judging from the turn-out at the concert, it may not be entirely accurate. Sure, she may not be popular in the traditional mass way, but a section of loyalists and fans would keep coming back for more. Just as long as Sunidhi keeps working her special niche and delivering the songs she knows best how to, it bodes well. And there is a lot else to love about her- she has a relatable quality while on-stage. There were no gimmicks during the show and Sunidhi refrained from much on-stage chatter, which was refreshingly professional. Considering performers penchant for chatter that eats into song-time, this was a good call. Involving her musicians at one point in during the show and not forgetting to thank her support team was a nice touch in the end. Photo credits: Kuntal Trivedi - Kimaya Creations

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ENTERTAINMENT

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EVENTS

www.iwk.co.nz 14 March 2014

WHATSOn
Holi Festival of Colors ISKCON Holi Auckland International Cultural Festival 2014
kapa haka performances and more. The Navy will open its doors to the public for the first Open Day in over three years. When: Saturday 29 March, 10:00am 4:00pm Where: Devonport Naval Base, Queens Parade, Auckland Admission: Free Website: www.navy.mil.nz

Free family fun filled event, celebrating Holi Festival of Colours. Food and information stalls, kids activities and rides, performances and entertainment. Liquor Ban Zone in all external areas.

When: Sunday 16 March, 12:00pm - 5:00pm Where: Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great
South Road, Manukau City Admission: Free

Waitakere Indian Association Holi Festival

Colours, music, and amusement for the whole family, Come enjoy your Holi with us. When: Saturday, 22 March 11:30am7:00pm Where: Trusts Stadium Grounds, Central Park Drive, Henderson. Admission: Free Entry & Free Parking

The Festival aims to provide the opportunity to the people of Auckland and those at festival to experience the thrills of being involved in one of Indias most popular Festival of Colours, learn about Krishna consciousness and vegetarianism. ISKCON devotees of Auckland would keep everyone entertained using music, yoga, childrens activities. Everyone is welcome.

When: Sunday, 23 March, 12:30pm-7.00pm Where: Sri Sri Radha Giridhari Temple,
1229 Riverhead Highway, Auckland

The Auckland International Cultural Festival is a free one-day event that is great for the whole whanau. With approximately 100 food, craft and display stalls, four cultural zones and performers across four stages, this day is a fantastic mix of culture, colour, sights, smells and sounds. When: Sunday 30 March, 10:00am 5:00pm Where: War Memorial Park, 13 May Rd, Auckland Admission: Free Website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Admission: Free Website: harekrishna.org.nz/events/

ISKCON Auckland

The Royal New Zealand Navy: Navy Open Day

Come and see your Navy in action - Free ship and base tours, band performances,

Urdu Hindi Cultural Assosiation of New Zealand Inc. presents 3-in-1 ghazal programme evening, in New Zealand. Help promote and preserve the two most prominent languages of the Indian subcontinent. Come one, come all. Mazedar Hydrabadi Biryani and other vegetarian stuff will also be available. So dont miss this special entertainment opportunity, which will also provide a glimpse of the cultural richness of Indian and Pakistani plethora to your children. When: Saturday 24 May, 6:30pm onwards Where: Fickling Convention Centre, Three Kings, Auckland Admission: Free Contact:For more information contact Syed Mujeeb 0211602135 or 098284876

Sham-e-Ghazal, Mushaira and Kavi Sammelan

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RECIPE

Rubys Kitchen
By Ruby Dhillon

BESAN KA SHEERA
Ingredients 5tbsp- besan (Gram flour) 5tbsp- caster sugar or standard white sugar 4tbsp- ghee ( unsalted butter) 1/2tsp- crushed green cardamom 2cups- water

Method In a pan melt ghee on a medium heat. When the ghee melts, add besan and keep whisking so that no lumps are formed and until its golden brown in colour (make sure it does not burn or turn black). Then add water to it and continue whisking while you are adding water to avoid lumps, add green cardamom, whisk, add sugar. Whisk for a while until its little thick. Serve hot. You can add sliced almonds or pistachios. TIP : This recipe is very good for cough, cold, runny nose and eyes. It needs to be taken spoon by spoon when its warm and make sure you go to bed straight after taking it.

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K IW

I I NDI A

Inviting nominations for Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame 2014

Established 2013

The Indian Weekender calls upon nominations for those who have built a road to glory for themselves and left a path for the coming generations to tread on. Touching the lives of thousands and enriching society with their being. Bringing fame and respect to New Zealand and the Kiwi-Indian community. The Indian Weekender invites nominations for such personalities from the community for getting inducted into the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame 2014.
The guidelines, which need to be adhered to, for nominations, are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. He/she needs to have an undisputable recognition in his or her field of work. Nominated by a nominator of repute. Further, the nominator has to be in confirmation with the nominee. The nominator has to provide their full contact details. No anonymous applications will be entertained. All fields of work are welcome. For the purposes of this award, field of work can be politics, business, sports, art, culture, or any profession. The definition of Kiwi Indian, for the purposes of this award, hereby, is defined as follows: any person of Indian origin, from any part of the world, who has settled here in New Zealand. To be of Indian origin, at least one of the parents of the nominee have to be Indian, by blood. Thereby making the nominee of Indian lineage. The nominee must have either a Permanent Residency (PR), or Citizenship of New Zealand to be eligible for consideration. 7. The nominee should have no prior convictions. 8. Age is no bar; for minors, achievers under the age of 18, parental consent will be required. 9. The successful candidate will be required to attend the ceremony in person. In case a person is not able to attend, due to any unforeseen circumstances, the jury will use its discretion. 10. The jurys decision will be final and binding; and cannot be challenged. 6.

EntrY Form: Form for nominating candidates for induction to Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame 2014
Nominator Details
Name of the Nominator

Nominee Details
Name of the Nominee

About the Nominee

For how long do you know the Nominee?

Professional details of the Nominator

Age of Nominee Sex M F

Why do you think the nominee should be inducted in the Hall of Fame 2014? Please clarify the self-achievement that the nominee has earned in his / her area of profession / occupation.

Address & Contact number of Nominator *

Address & Contact number of Nominator *

How do you think that the Nominee had added fame & respect to the Kiwi-Indian community?

Declaration by Nominator
I have got confirmation from the Nominee for this application. Yes No Nominee has accepted to appear in person for the ceremony, if he/she gets accepted for the induction to Hall of Fame 2014. Yes No

I hereby declare that the above information is true to the best of my knowledge. I also allow Indian Weekender and the Jury to use the information provided for background checks and to contact either me or the Nominee for the purpose of getting any more information. Signed:

What to do next?
Please take a print out of this form, sign and send to us at: Jury Panel, Hall of Fame 2014 98, Great South Road, Epsom, Auckland

(Add extra pages to this form if required.) For details contact Indian Weekender on Phone: 09-2137335 E-Mail: halloffame@indianweekender.co.nz Web: www.indianweekender.co.nz