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THE 63rd REPUBLIC DAY
R-DAY IN PICTURES
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:: Diaspora News
Indian workers call off strike Dubai, May 30: A strike by around 1,000 workers of a Bahraini company to protest what they called inhuman living conditions, random pay cuts and unfair treatment came to an end on May 28 after the company management met most of their demands. Taste of India in Queen's b'day menu London, May 29: Delicious and spicy Indian food is so popular in Britain that it is all set to figure in the 'Great British Menu' that would be served to Queen Elizabeth and her 300 guests on her birthday on June 17. Indians hurt in freak incident Dubai, May 30: In a freak incident, two Indian workers in Bahrain were injured after they fell from a scaffolding when an unidentified man started shaking it. New US Bill on immigrants Washington, May 27: Over 10 million illegal immigrants to the United States, including a few Indians and other Asians, may get a chance to become citizens doing the jobs most native Americans would not do, thanks to a new law on the anvil. SBT to open offices in Gulf Thiruvananthapuram, May 27: Kerala's State Bank of Travancore (SBT) announced on May 26 that it will soon open a representative office in Saudi Arabia and Dubai. MoU with Gulf nations likely New Delhi, May 26: India is contemplating a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on labour with countries in the Middle East to establish appropriate institutional arrangements and better working conditions for its workers engaged there. HIV+ worker still stuck in Bahrain Bahrain, May 26: Deteriorating health has delayed the departure for home of an HIV-infected Indian labourer here. DD to be MOIA's media partner New Delhi, May 26: The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with national broadcaster Doordarshan (DD) according to which DD will become a media partner of the Ministry. Bahrain school breaks CBSE record Bahrain, May 25: Students of the well known Indian School here have achieved a record-breaking 99.46 percent pass rate in their Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) higher secondary school examinations. Award for cookbook by Indian London, May 25: Great Indian Feasts, the latest cookbook by Britain-based celebrity chef Mridula Baljekar, has won the 'Gourmand World Cookbook Award' in the 'Best Asian Cuisine Cookbook' category. UK varsity, ISRO in R&D tie-up London, May 24: The east Midlands town of Leicester with a large minority of Indian origin has further deepened its ties with India - this time in the field of space research. 93.45% Gulf students pass CBSE Class 12 New Delhi, May 24: As many as 93.45 per cent of students who took the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Class 12 exam in Gulf countries have passed - way above the total pass percentage this year. Chatwal reception for US lawmakers Washington, May 19 The US-India civil nuclear agreement received rare bipartisan support when more than 70 lawmakers from both houses of the US Congress attended a reception hosted by New York-based hotelier Sant Singh Chatwal on the Capitol Hill. Taking charity to new heights Kathmandu, May 18: A Malaysian businessman of Indian origin has literally taken corporate responsibility to new heights by ascending Mt Everest, the highest peak in the world, for charity. Know India Programme starts New Delhi, May 17: One has worked with an Israeli border patrol unit. Another teaches Hindi in a New Zealand school. Yet another is a freshman at Yale University in the US. What is common to the 24 of them? They are all of Indian origin. What brings them together is a programme to introduce their homeland. Funds raised for injured worker Dubai, May 17: Members of the Indian community in Bahrain are raising funds for the treatment of an Indian worker who has been hospitalised for over two months following an accident at his workplace. Bill on NRI voting rights New Delhi, May 16 A Bill to extend voting rights to non-resident Indians (NRIs) has been referred to the parliamentary panel for examination, Law and Justice Minister HR Bhardwaj told the Rajya Sabha on May 15. Indian maid in Bahrain isolated Dubai, May 16: An Indian housemaid in Bahrain, who has allegedly been mistreated by her Bahraini sponsor for five months now, has managed to send a letter to the Bahrain Keraliya Samajam (BKS) appealing to be rescued. Honour for Indian-born doctor in US Bhubaneswar, May 14: A leading hospital in the US has honoured an Indian-born doctor with the Physician of the Year award for 2006. Kidnapped Indian in Nigeria freed New Delhi, May 13: An Indian worker, abducted by unidentified gunmen from a town in southern Nigeria, was released on May 12 along with two other foreign nationals. Punjab warning to migrants Chandigarh, May 13: The Punjab government on May 12 cautioned people against migrating to the Philippines due to reported attacks on Indians in that country. Suriname Home Minister meets Ravi New Delhi, May 12: Suriname Minister for Home Affairs Maurits Safdar Hassankhan Friday called on Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi to discuss details of the Bidesia project, aimed at tracing the roots of the Indian diaspora in the South American country. 2 Indians die in Gulf road mishaps Dubai, May 10: Two Indian expatriates died in separate road accidents in the Gulf on May 10. 'Abandoned' Indians made to wait more Dubai, May 11: A group of 27 Asian workers, including several Indians, in Bahrain has to wait another month for the conclusion of a court case filed against their employer for having allegedly abandoned them. Draw strength from fore-parents: Jagdeo Georgetown (Guyana), May 11: Guyana President Bharrat Jagdeo has called upon the Indian diaspora in this Caribbean nation to draw strength from their fore-parents since they persevered despite coming here under very harsh conditions. Indian American astronaut's kin elated Ahmedabad, May 10: Indian American Sunita Williams' relatives in Gujarat are excited over US space agency NASA selecting her for a space expedition and say she has all the qualities to succeed. More Indians now in diamond body Brussels, May 10: Indian diamond traders, who control more than half of Antwerp's diamond trade, have gained ground in the trade's main governing body for the first time, winning five of the six elected seats. Museum on Indian diaspora in Trinidad Port of Spain (Trinidad and Tobago), May 9: An Indian Caribbean Museum, aimed at preserving the history of descendants of the immigrants from India to the Caribbean, has been inaugurated by Winston Dookeran, political leader of the United National Congress party, at Carapichaima in west central Trinidad. Indian American in top NJ post New York, May 6: Uttar Pradesh-born Ved Chaudhary, an Indian American agricultural engineer and management specialist, has been appointed assistant commissioner for finance and budget in the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Another Indian in House of Lords London, May 5: In yet another instance of an Indian making it to the House of Lords, Kamlesh Patel, a veteran of the health and social sector, has been elevated to the house as a non-party peer. US-returned couple does charity work Balasore (Orissa), May 4: A woman who ran a laundry and dry cleaning shop in the United States donated her ancestral property in Orissa to charity to fulfil the wish of her lawyer father who died 17 years ago. Indian American in Ohio house fray New York, May 5: An Indian American, Jay Goyal, has won the Democratic primaries for the Ohio House of Representatives. Another Indian in Bahrain cheated Dubai, May 4: An Indian woman in Bahrain has become the latest victim of cheating by recruitment agencies in India. Ravi leaves for weeklong Gulf tour New Delhi, May 3: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi left for Bahrain's capital Manama Wednesday to start a weeklong tour of the Gulf countries. Nilekani, NRI microlender on Time list New York, May 2: Infosys CEO Nandan Nilekani and SKS Microfinance founder Vikram Akula are the only two Indians figuring on the list of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world. NRI deposits in SBT up 9% Thiruvananthapuram, May 2: A slew of NRI (non-resident Indian)-friendly measures introduced by State Bank of Travancore (SBT) in Kerala saw NRI deposits grow by 9.59 percent to touch Rs 78 billion in 2005-06 fiscal over the previous year. State Bank of Travancore's NRI deposits grow Thiruvananthapuram, May 2: A slew of NRI (non-resident Indian)-friendly measures introduced by State Bank of Travancore (SBT) in Kerala saw NRI deposits grow by 9.59 percent to touch Rs.78 billion in 2005-06 fiscal over the previous year. NRI pushes for healthcare reforms Chicago, May 1: An Indian American physician, who is president-elect of the Chicago Medical Society, has said that doctors should take the lead and work with lawmakers in the US on healthcare reforms that should include a reduction in fines to be paid in cases of medical negligence. 8 Indians among 28 killed in mishap Dubai/New Delhi, April 30: Eight Indians were among 28 people killed when the bus they were travelling in fell into a ditch near Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, the Indian government said on April 29. Noted Cambridge scholar passes away London, April 29: A pall of gloom has descended over academics and students of South Asian studies in Cambridge and elsewhere following the passing away of Rajnarayan Chandavarkar, fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. Ravi meets UK parliamentary team New Delhi, April 28: A four-member delegation of the British Parliamentary Select Committee on Home Affairs called on Minister for Overseas indian Affairs Vayalar Ravihere on April 27. Trinidad gets new opposition leader Port-of-Spain (Trinidad and Tobago), April 28: Kamla Persad-Bissesar, a member of parliament belonging to the United National Congress (UNC) party, has been named as the leader of the opposition in the Trinidad & Tobago parliament. Honour for British Indian London, April 28: Nat Puri, a prominent British Indian Nottingham industrialist, has been honoured with the first Excellence in Community Service award instituted by the Hindu Forum of Britain. India study centre in Tashkent Tashkent, April 27: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has announced that a Centre for India Studies, to be named after Mahatma Gandhi, will be set up here and praised the nearly 200 people of Indian origin who have made Uzbekistan their home for changing the image of the country here. PM lauds diaspora in Uzbekistan Tashkent, April 27: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has lauded nearly 300 persons of Indian origin who have made Uzbekistan their home for changing the image of the country here. PM lauds Indian diaspora in Germany Berlin, April 25: It was a big moment for the over 50,000-strong Indian community in Germany with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh showering praises on them for enriching their adopted home with their talent and shaping the image of a resurgent "India on the move". New financial service for diaspora New Delhi, April 25: The Ministry for Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), in association with UTI Bank, has launched a new service aimed at helping Indians abroad investing in India. Guyana to celebrate Indian Arrival Day Georgetown (Guyana), April 24: People of Indian origin (PIOs) in Guyana are all set to celebrate the 168th anniversary of the arrival of Indians in this Caribbean country with a series of events. Gujarati meet planned in New Jersey Ahmedabad, April 24: The Gujarati Association of North America plans a global meet - with political seminars, cultural events and kite flying - in the US during July "to acquaint the second generation with their cultural roots". Ravi to go on 3-nation Gulf tour New Delhi, April 24: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi will lead an official delegation on a three-nation tour of the Gulf from May 3. NRIs in US form new body New York, April 24: A group of Assamese residents in the US has come together to form a forum called Friends of Assam and the Seven Sisters (FASS) to work for the overall development of India's northeastern region. Fiji's national anthem now in Gujarati Suva (Fiji), April 21: Gujaratis in Fiji started the centennial celebrations of their arrival in Fiji by launching a CD that includes a Gujarati translation of Fiji's national anthem. Chennai firm to train children in UAE Chennai, April 21: Chennai-based OnlySuccess Learning Technologies has announced the start of its 'success-training services' for children in Dubai and Sharjah. Strike in Bahrain called off Dubai, April 21: A strike called by around 2,000 workers of a Bahraini firm, most of whom were Indians, has been called off following the intervention of the Indian embassy and three other missions. S African Indian opens dream mall Johannesburg, April 20: A South African Indian businessman's three-decades-old dream finally came true with the opening of his new shopping centre, inaugurated by Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngquka at a glittering function here. SBI remittance centre in S'pore Singapore, April 19: The State Bank of India opened its first remittance centre in this city state recently. The move is being seen as a prelude to the entry by India's largest bank into the retail banking sector here. India to boost ties with Holland PIOs New Delhi, April 19: The Government of India is planning to support a project to strengthen the longstanding ties between the people of Indian origin (PIOs) in Holland with the land of their forefathers. Indian film festival in LA Los Angeles, April 19: The 4th Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA), the only festival in the US dedicated to presenting Indian cinema, is set to open on April 19 with Deepa Mehta's Water. US courage award for Neerja Bhanot Chandigarh, April 19: Pan Am flight attendant Neerja Bhanot, who died fighting hijackers at Pakistan's Karachi airport in September 1986, will be honoured with the second highest award in the US for crime victims. 120 Indo-Fijians in Fiji polls Suva (Fiji), April 17: There are as many as 120 Indo-Fijian candidates representing different parties in the general election in Fiji scheduled to be held from May 6 to 13. IMT to open campus in Dubai Dubai, April 17: The Institute of Management Technology (IMT), one of India's leading business schools, will open its first overseas campus here at the Dubai Academic City (DAC). Keith Vaz sets up novel scheme London, April 17: Keith Vaz, a British MP of Indian origin, has launched an educational exchange scheme in memory of his mother that will enable a teacher from his home state of Goa to spend a term teaching at a school in Leicester. MOIA scholarships for diaspora students New Delhi, April 14: (IANS) The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) is introducing scholarships for diaspora children to study in higher technical and non-technical institutes in India in the academic session 2006-07. This year's IPDY to be different New Delhi, April 12: An Internship Programme for Diaspora Youth (IPDY), begun in 2002, will undergo a change in format to enable its participants to get more exposure to India and its way of life. Kidnapped Indian rescued Port-of-Spain (Trinidad & Tobago), April 12: A 35-year-old car dealer of Indian origin, who was kidnapped from Couva in central Trinidad, was rescued by the police on April 10 after three days. IIM-A plans programmes in Gulf Dubai, April 11: The Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A), has entered into an agreement with Competence HR LLC, a human resource firm in Oman, to provide management development programmes in Oman, Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Cash crisis hits Indian doctors in UK London, April 11: Apart from changes in work rules that have adversely affected Indian doctors' employment prospects, a financial crisis has gripped several hospitals in Britain's National Health Service (NHS), leading to hundreds of job losses. Mittal stays richest Asian in UK London, April 11: Noted industrialist Lakshmi Mittal remains the richest Asian in Britain in 2006 with a wealth of £14.8 billion, according to Philip Beresford, author of the Sunday Times Rich List. Project to trace diaspora roots on New Delhi, April 10: The Ministry of Overseas Indian affairs' (MOIA) effort to help persons of Indian origin (PIOs) abroad trace their antecedents in the land of their forefathers has started bearing fruit with the roots of eight people being traced in the district of Ballia in Uttar Pradesh. 'License ayurveda practitioners in US' New York, April 10: An Indian American practitioner of ayurveda wants those who practice this ancient Indian medical system to get licences in the US. CBSE textbook scarcity in Oman Dubai, April 10: Unavailability of textbooks has sent students of Classes 9 and 11 in Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) schools in Oman into a tizzy. Target the Indian diaspora: designer New Delhi, April 9: Indian fashion designers should target the huge diaspora worldwide instead of just focusing on the West, feels Leena Singh of the Ashima-Leena duo. Indo-Fijian mayor visits Chandigarh Suva (Fiji), April 6: The Indo-Fijian mayor of the town of Labasa in Fiji, Pradeep Singh, who recently visited Chandigarh, the place from where he did his graduation, said on return that "India has taken the right strategic path". Gurinder Chadha to direct 'Dallas' film London, April 7: British filmmaker Gurinder Chadha is being tipped to direct the film version of the hit 1980s TV series Dallas. Qatar mission blacklists 64 firms Dubai, April 7: As many as 64 Qatari companies have been blacklisted by the Indian Embassy in Qatar on charges of salary non-payment, ill-treatment of workers from India and providing sub-standard living conditions, while 34 other companies have been put on a 'watch list'. Odissi performance in NY next week New York, April 7: Enthusiasts of Indian classical arts will get an opportunity to enjoy an Odissi performance here next week by an Indian American creative dance group. New rule hits Indian doctors in UK London, April 6: Panic has set in among thousands of doctors from the Indian subcontinent after new rules that came into effect made work permits mandatory for non-European Union doctors to work in the National Health Service (NHS). Fund to help boat tragedy orphans Dubai, April 6: A fund set up by the Indian School, Bahrain, to help five students who lost their parents in the March 30 boat tragedy received a major boost when it received a donation of Bahraini dinar (BHD) 1,500. College likely in Chawla's name Panipat (Haryana), April 6: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday said he would consider Haryana's request for setting up a medical college named after Indian American astronaut Kalpana Chawla, who was born in the State. Indian in fray for literary prize London, April 6: Rana Dasgupta, a British writer of Indian origin who now lives in India, has been short-listed for what is considered the world's biggest award for a single short story. Naushad freed from Saudi jail Dubai/New Delhi, April 6: Abdul Lateef Naushad, an Indian national whose one eye was to be gouged out as punishment for damaging the eye of a Saudi Arabian man, was on April 5 released after spending three years in a Saudi jail and sent back to India. Orissa formation day in S'pore Bhubaneswar, April 6: Cultural events, dances, feasts and competition for kids were organised as Oriyas living in Singapore celebrated Orissa formation day with much pump and gaiety. Durban re-enacts Dandi March Johannesburg, April 5: Over 500 people participated in a walk from the Phoenix settlement to Battery Beach in Durban on April 2 to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's historic salt march. Fee hike in Gulf Indian schools Dubai, April 5: Parents of children studying in Indian schools in the Gulf have expressed deep concern at fee hikes in the new academic session. Delay in release of bodies irks Ravi New Delhi, April 5: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi has asked Indian airport and immigration officials to explain the reported delay in the release of bodies of Bahrain boat tragedy victims from Bangalore and Mumbai. PM thanks Bahrain for help in tragedy Dubai, April 4: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said India deeply values the sentiments expressed by Bahrain following the death of 22 of its nationals in the March 30 boat tragedy. PIO named NZ Governor-General Auckland, April 4: Anand Satyanand, a former ombudsman and judge, has been named New Zealand's next Governor-General. Honour for Gujarati comedian London, April 4: Dipak Joshi and his team of Gujarati comics were rewarded for their performance at the Leicester Comedy Festival, an event that attracted over 60,000 people in the town. Holi celebrated in Nevada varsity New York, April 3: Holi, the Hindu festival of colour, was celebrated with great fervour in the vibrant American tourist town of Reno in Nevada by the local Indian community. Bahrain boat tragedy: 21 Indians die New Delhi, April 1: The number of Indians killed in Bahrain rose to 21 on April 1 with the identification of more bodies of the 57 victims who met a watery grave when a tourist dhow with 137 people sank in the Persian Gulf. Sudan to have Gandhi peace park New Delhi, March 31: Sudan is to establish a peace park named after Mahatma Gandhi and a cultural centre named after Jawaharlal Nehru, Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed said on March 30. Hope for 'abandoned' workers Dubai, March 30: There was some relief for the 40 Asian workers, including Indians, allegedly abandoned by their Bahraini employer, after a leading human rights group in Bahrain came to their rescue. Indians abandoned in Bahrain Dubai, March 29: A group of Indians is among 40 Asian workers who claim they have been abandoned by their Bahraini employer and now face the prospect of hunger and starvation. NZ PM assures support to freed hostage Auckland, March 29: New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark has assured Harmeet Singh Sooden, who was rescued last week from Iraqi abductors, all help as he arrived here on March 26 to settle down to life with his family in New Zealand. India-Apac biz meet in Singapore Singapore, March 27: About 350 businessmen from India and the region are expected to converge here from April 12 to 13 for the 'Connecting India Asia Pacific Business Summit' organised by a group of international trade organisations led by the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI). Indian trade fair in Guyana Georgetown, March 27: An Indian trade fair in Guyana, which is drawing overwhelming response from businessmen and the public, moved to the town of Berbice from the capital this weekend. Inside page headline: Bahl grateful for breaks in growing music career RIDGEFIELD (Connecticut, USA): If Ankush Kumar Bahl believed in omens, he would have reconsidered his career after his first concert as conductor in 2000. Shyamalan plans book with film Los Angeles, March 24: Indian origin director Manoj Night Shyamalan is working on a children's book to go with his upcoming movie Lady in the Water. Indian worker stuck in Bahrain Dubai, March 23: An Indian labourer in Bahrain, who has been infected with HIV, will have to wait a little longer before he is sent home. Now, Ghalib's ghazals in Polish Warsaw, March 23: Urdu poetry is making inroads into Poland, with the ghazals of renowned 19th century poet Mirza Ghalib being translated into Polish. Top award for Indo-Canadian Stockholm, March 24: Indian-born Asit K. Biswas was on March 22 awarded the 2006 Stockholm Water Prize for "outstanding and multi-faceted contributions to global water resource issues". Programme on shadowing MPs London, March 23: The Hindu Forum of Britain has launched a Parliamentary Experience Programme under which 10 bright youngsters will tag along British parliamentarians for six months. Award for India-born film-maker New York, March 22: Hollywood-based Indian actor-filmmaker Kavi Raz's The Gold Bracelet - about a hate crime that followed the 9/11 attacks - has been awarded at the Cinequest Film Festival in California. Caparo plans 5 new plants in India London, March 21: The Caparo Group, a company owned by Lord Swraj Paul, noted industrialist of Indian origin, has announced plans to set up five new manufacturing plants in India at a cost of £100 million. UK needs Indian cooks: Vaz London, March 21: Keith Vaz, prominent British lawmaker of Indian origin, has urged the Tony Blair government to relax the immigration system so that cooks from India can obtain work permits to work in Indian restaurants in Britain. Major coalition formed in Fiji Suva (Fiji), March 21: The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) of former prime minister Mahendra Chaudhry and the United People's Party (UPP) have made history by forming a coalition ahead of the general elections in the country in May. Film on London's Bengali diaspora Kolkata, March 21: A film on first generation Bengalis in Britain - London-e Probashi (At home in London) - will showcase the successful lives of immigrants from West Bengal. Hunt on for missing NRI Manama, March 21: An Indian association in Bahrain has launched a campaign in a bid to trace an Indian man who went missing 15 years ago after running away from his employer. Safety measures for NRIs in Gulf Doha (Qatar), March 21: India is setting into motion strict new measures to protect its people, particularly women, working in the Gulf. Biz honour for Steve Sanghi New York, March 20: The IndUS Business Journal, a leading US business newspaper covering Indian and South Asian businesses, has named Steve Sanghi of Microchip Technology its 'Person of the Year'. Meet lauds Indian diaspora's role Brussels, March 20: Non-resident Indians in Europe have not only contributed substantially to their host countries but have also remitted considerable funds to their home country, speakers at a conference on international migration here said. Bollywood show in South Africa Johannesburg, March 20: Fans of Indian music in South Africa had a blast as they sang and danced along with a group of singers from India who entertained them with Bollywood hits, both old and new. India, Canada discuss migration New Delhi, March 17: India and Canada held informal discussions on global migration issues here on March 17. TiE names new executive director Silicon Valley (California), March 17: The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), Inc), a non- profit network of entrepreneurs and professionals, appointed Suren Dutia as its executive director on March 15. Malaysian Tamil on astronaut list Kuala Lumpur, March 17: S. Vanajah, a Malaysian Tamil, is the only woman among four people short-listed for her country's maiden astronaut training programme. Gift to promote Hindi in Lithuania Vilnius, March 17: India has given $10,000 to the Centre of Oriental Studies in Vilnius University for setting up a laboratory for promoting the Hindi language in the Lithuanian capital. Holi celebrated in Fiji Suva (Fiji), March 17: Holi, the festival of colour, was celebrated with great fervour in Fiji where people of Indian origin comprise 44 per cent of the country's 890,000 population. Vayalar Ravi cancels UAE visit New Delhi, March 16: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi has cancelled his visit to the United Arab Emigrates (UAE) due to an extension of the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament. 'Focus on human resources' New Delhi, March 16: Overseas Indian scientists say the country is facing a major shortage of trained manpower even as it aspires to be a knowledge hub in areas like biotechnology and nanotechnology. More Indian students enrol in British varsities London, March 14: More Indian students enrolled for courses in British universities in 2004-05 - up 14.1 percent over the previous year. Festival of India in Guyana Georgetown (Guyana), March 16: A week-long Festival of India was held here to enable the people of Guyana, half of whose 765,000 population is of Indian origin, to experience the rich culture of India. Top post for Praveen Chopra New York, March 16: Prominent Indian American Parveen Chopra has become the first Asian to be appointed to the board of advisors of the United New Yorkers for Choice in Education (UNYCE). Prestigious award for Manick Sorcar Chicago, March 16: Famed magician PC Sorcar's son Manick has won the highest award for artistic achievement at the 2006 conference of the International Laser Display Association (ILDA) for his laser-cum-live show "Enlightenment of Buddha". Prem Misir in GOPIO body Georgetown (Guyana), March 16: Prem Misir, pro-chancellor of the University of Guyana, has been appointed co-chairman of the Academic Council of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO). Ravi to visit UAE, Qatar New Delhi, March 14: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi will be leaving for Dubai on March 16 on a six-day tour of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar. Kalam visits spot where first Indian immigrants landed Port Louis (Mauritius), March 13: The 14 steps immigrants climbed after disembarking from ships, the sunken baths, the cells... it was all there on March 13 when President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam visited the Apravasi Ghat, just as it was 172 years ago when the first batch of indentured labourers landed here in Mauritius. Thailand now in ECR category New Delhi, March 14: Thailand does not enjoy the 'No Emigration Check Required’ status any more. According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, the Government of India has withdrawn the exemption given from the operation of Section 22 of the Emigration Act, 1983 to every citizen of India going to Thailand with immediate effect. TiE event held in LSE London, March 14: The UK chapter of The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) organized an event to promote young entrepreneurs at the London School of Economics (LSE). Kalam graces Mauritius national day Port Louis, March 13: President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was the chief guest on March 12 at Mauritius's National Day, marked by a brief, charming ceremony on the waterfront. Saudis bail out two beleaguered Indians Riyadh, March 13: Two Indians - one whose passport had been confiscated by his sponsor and another who was under detention - have been bailed out of their plight following intervention by some Saudis and the Indian embassy here. Indian education show at Dubai Dubai, March 13: Leading educational institutions from India participated in the two-day Khaleej Times Indian Education Show here. NRI named top entrepreneur in Singapore Singapore, March 11: Vikas Goel, chairman and group managing director of eSys Technologies, walked away with the 2005 Entrepreneur of the Year award at the 4th Ernst & Young's annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards gala dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Millenia here on March 9. Indo-Fijian is country's new envoy to Australia Suva (Fiji), March 11: Indo-Fijian Amraiya Naidu has been appointed as Fiji's next High Commissioner to Australia. More Indians in Forbes rich list New York, March 11: London-based steel tycoon Lakshmi N. Mittal is the fifth richest person globally after Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, his friend Warren Buffet, Latin American telecom tsar Carlos Slim Helú and Swedish retailer Ingvar Kamprad, as per the Forbes magazine's annual rich list. Row over cold fusion claim New York, March 10: Controversy is brewing in the world of physics after a 2002 claim regarding cold fusion by a physicist of Indian origin, Rusi Taleyarkhan, was refuted by the respected scientific journal Nature in its latest issue. Fiji President reappointment hailed Suva (Fiji), March 9: Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry and National Federation Party secretary general Pramod Rae have welcomed the reappointment of Ratu Josefa Iloilo and Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi as President and Vice-President of Fiji, respectively. Guyana remembers Cheddi Jagan Georgetown (Guyana), March 10: The ruling People's Progressive Party (PPP) of Guyana is observing a series of memorial activities this month for its legendary founder and former President of Guyana, Cheddi Jagan. Pact with Indian American doctors' body New Delhi, March 9: An agreement with a representative body of doctors of Indian origin in the U.S. will help promote primary health care in selected states of India, the Rajya Sabha was informed on March 9. Bill on voting rights for NRIs tabled New Delhi, March 9: An agreement with a representative body of doctors of Indian origin in the U.S. will help promote primary health care in selected states of India, the Rajya Sabha was informed on March 9. Kalam interacts with students Yangon, March 9: How do we handle failure, how can we visit your country, is there any difference between a girl's IQ and a boy's - from the basic to the esoteric, Indian President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has been fielding a host of questions from eager students including a batch of Indian origin students at India House during his Myanmar trip. Blair's assurance to Indian students London, March 8: Prime Minister Tony Blair told a group of students in India via videophone that the new points-based immigration system would make it "easier and fairer" for them to study in Britain Counselling centres for women New Delhi, March 8: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi told the Lok Sabha on March 8 that a proposal to establish overseas counselling centres for Indian women abroad is under examination in consultation with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Finance. Sending money from UK gets easier London, March 7: A new and updated British Government sponsored leaflet has been launched that provides comprehensive information to Indian professionals about sending money to family members back home. Kalam leaves for Myanmar, Mauritius New Delhi, March 8: President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on March 8 left for a six-day visit to Myanmar and Mauritius to deepen India's bilateral ties with the two countries. Both these countries have a sizeable population of Indian origin. UK to have new immigration scheme London, March 7: Britain will initiate a new Australia-style points-based system for immigration that is expected to make it easier for highly skilled workers from non-European countries including India to come to the U.K. Oscar glory for Indian-origin producer Johannesburg, March 7: South Africans rejoiced at the Oscar bagged by its entry Tsotsi, produced by a well-known South African Indian filmmaker, in the foreign films category. Indo-Fijian man behind new medical school in Fiji Suva (Fiji), March 7: An Indo-Fijian doctor, who now lives in Australia, is the inspiration and benefactor behind a proposed medical school in the University of Fiji. XLRI to have Singapore campus Singapore, March 7: The Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur, will set up a campus in Singapore that will start operating from June this year. Andhra body to help job seekers Hyderabad, March 7: In an attempt to end the exploitation of gullible aspirants of overseas jobs by unscrupulous agencies, Andhra Pradesh has launched a public sector undertaking to help in their placement abroad. Australia to have e-visa scheme soon New Delhi, March 6: Indians would be able to access Australia's tourist e-visa scheme soon, Australian Prime Minister John Howard said here on March 6. Fisherfolk to be trained in Scotland Chennai, March 6: A fisherfolk team from Tamil Nadu and Kerala will get a chance to learn advanced fishing techniques at a Scotland college. UK varsities value Indian students London, March 6: Foreign students, including from India, are prized in British universities not only for the high fees they pay but also for their higher standards and commitment to studies than their local counterparts, academics here say. Prestigious post for Swraj Paul London, March 5: Prominent Indian origin industrialist Lord Swraj Paul has been appointed the first chancellor of the prestigious University of Westminster here. Mittal Steel to expand production in Poland Warsaw, March 5: Global steel giant Mittal Steel plans to invest $450 million this year to increase the production capacities of its plants in Poland. Bush seeks support of India Caucus Hyderabad, March 4: US President George W. Bush on Friday asked Indian Americans to convince the India Caucus in the US Senate to support the civilian nuclear deal with India. More Asian students in Scotland schools London, March 3: Schools in Scotland have recorded a rise in the number of students with origins in the Indian subcontinent and a decline in those categorised as "white UK", official figures reveal. Indian mind trainer helps S Africans Johannesburg, March 3: Hundreds of South African Indians thronged classes by a leading Indian mind trainer and motivator who helps people improve their lives by unlocking the power of the subconscious mind. New passport office in Kerala New Delhi, March 3: Kerala's Malappuram district, which sends a large number of workers to Gulf countries, is to get a new passport office, Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed said on Thursday. New secretary for overseas Indian affairs New Delhi, March 3: Ramesh Narayanaswami has taken over as the secretary in the ministry of overseas Indian affairs, it was announced Friday. George Bush hints at more H-1B visas New Delhi, March 3: U.S. President George W. Bush on March 2 hinted that larger number of non-immigrant (H-1B) visa could be issued by the U.S. authorities, The Economic Times reported on March 3. Will biz visa to U.S. become history? New Delhi, March 3: The Economic Times on March 3 reported that the high-level CEO forum, in its meeting with Bush, deliberated upon the various aspects of enhancing bilateral business relations. The 20-member forum, comprising 10 top CEOs from both countries, is also learnt to have presented a white paper on various issues. Bush praises Indian Americans New Delhi, March 2: U.S. President George W. Bush on Thursday acknowledged the contributions of Indian Americans and said pushing cultural exchanges with India was also in his country's interest, along with trade and diplomatic ties. 11 under detention in Oman New Delhi, March 2: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi told the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that, according to information received by the Embassy of India, Muscat, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Oman, there are 11 persons supposedly of Indian origin who have been detained in Sohar Detention Centre for want of any identification. Govt working on Gulf workers' problems New Delhi, March 2: Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi told the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that complaints have been received against illegal recruiting agencies from various quarters, including Indian Missions in the Gulf countries. Muslim NRIs in US hail budget New York, March 2: The American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin (AFMI), a US-based organisation working for the educational and economic uplift of Indian Muslims, has commended New Delhi for laying special emphasis on educational and social fields in the union budget. 2 Indian American scribes in Bush team Washington, March 2: Two Indian American journalists, Raghubir Goyal and J.V. Lakhsmana Rao are among high-profile mediapersons accompanying U.S. President George W. Bush on his India visit. No new law for Indian women abroad New Delhi, March 1: The Government has said that though there have been general reports regarding exploitation of Indian women gone abroad for employment, there have been no specific complaints and no separate legislation in this regard is being contemplated. Free health camp in Bahrain New Delhi, March 1: The Indian Community Relief Fund (ICRF) in Bahrain is organising a free medical check-up camp for Indian workers at the Al Amal Speciality Hospital in Buri on Thursday, March 2. Kerala director makes film on diaspora New Delhi, March 01: Well-known Malayalam director T. Rajeevnath has begun shooting a documentary showcasing the Indian diaspora's success story in the United States. Overseas Indian website launched New Delhi, Feb 27: This online version of the Overseas Indian, the monthly publication of the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), was launched by Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi at a function here today. The print version of the publication was launched by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the inaugural ceremony of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2006 in Hyderabad last month. Singapore students to sit for CBSE exams New Delhi, Feb 27: Students from Singapore will for the first time appear for the Class 10 examination conducted by India's Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), a top board official has said. Asians in focus in Edinburgh show London, Feb 27: A Sikh tartan, a Punjabi laird and Indians dancing to Scottish folk music are some of the highlights of a major new exhibition set to open in Edinburgh from March 10. Shivratri celebrated in South Africa Johannesburg, Feb 25: Chanting prayers, Hindu youths took part in an annual procession ahead of the Shivratri festival in the South African Indian township of Lenasia near here. Overseas Indian website launched New Delhi, Feb 27: This online version of the Overseas Indian, the monthly publication of the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), was launched by Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi at a function here today. The print version of the publication was launched by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the inaugural ceremony of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2006 in Hyderabad last month. Lord Patel is next chancellor of University of Dundee London, Feb 25: Lord Naren Patel, a celebrated obstetrics expert here who had his initial education in India, has been named the next chancellor of the University of Dundee, Scotland. Saudi team seeks to address Indian migrants' problems New Delhi, Feb 24: A Saudi delegation met Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi here on Jnauary 24 to discuss ways of checking fraudulent practices affecting Indian workers migrating to that country in search of jobs. Punjab to open medical colleges with NRI help Chandigarh, Feb 24: The Punjab government on January 24 announced it would seek the help of non-resident Indians (NRIs) and private players to set up new medical colleges in the State. CBSE makes arrangements for Gulf students New Delhi, Feb 24: With about 15,000 students taking part in the Class 10 and 12 board examinations in the Gulf countries, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that everything proceeds smoothly. Indian American in race for Ohio attorney general New York, Feb 22: Indian American Subodh Chandra, a dynamic attorney who displayed a missionary zeal as director of Cleveland City's Law Office, has thrown his hat into the ring to contest Democratic primaries in the battle for Ohio's Attorney General. 'Indian trade lost in China frenzy' Sydney, Feb 21: Australia's Opposition trade spokesman Kevin Rudd told the Australia-India Business Council in Brisbane on February 20 that, while Chinese population growth was expected to plateau by the 2020s, India's - currently at $1.05 billion - was expected to continue growing for the next 50 years, according to a report in The Australian newspaper. Ontario seeks deeper trade ties with India New Delhi, Feb 20: Seeking to boost investment and trade and develop linkages in life sciences, information technology (IT) and education with India, Canadian province Ontario on February opened a new international marketing centre at the Canadian High Commission here. Mittal upbeat on Arcelor takeover bid New Delhi, Feb 20: Indian-born steel magnate Lakshmi N. Mittal on February 20 evinced confidence that his bid to take over Luxembourg-based Arcelor would come through soon. Glitz and glamour at Chatwal-Sachdev wedding reception New Delhi, Feb 19: With the city's swish set in attendance, it was glitz and glamour all the way at the wedding reception of hotelier Sant Chatwal's son Vikram with city socialite Priya Sachdev, bringing the curtain down on a weeklong event that was spread over three cities. Don't hold on to the skirts of the West: S. African writer Neemrana (Rajasthan), Feb 19: South African author Don Mattera loves to don different mantles - gangster, poet, jester, a sensitive soul haunted by ghosts of apartheid. But one defining quality that shines through all the masks is his capacity for compassion. US Congress honours PBD awardee Washington, Feb 19: New Jersey-based allergist and philanthropist Sudhir Parikh, who won this year's Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, has been honoured in the US Congress. Top Indian American philanthropist dies New York, Feb 19: Indian American real estate tycoon and philanthropist Ahmad Adaya passed away from complications following a heart transplant. Curry king launches unique trade link London, Feb 19: Charan Gill, one of Britain's richest Asians and better known as Glasgow's curry king, has launched a new initiative - Scotland House - in New Delhi to improve trade relations between Scotland and India. Special cells to stem fraudulent marriages New Delhi, Feb 18: India proposes to set up special cells abroad to assist parents in verifying the eligibility of a prospective groom overseas, besides helping harassed and abandoned brides in getting legal and medical redressal. Etihad to tap south India with direct fights New Delhi, Feb 18: Etihad Airways, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) national airline which completed its first year of operations in India in December, plans to connect southern Indian cities and Abu Dhabi with direct flights by the yearend. Punjab-origin man missing from Southall London, Feb 18: British authorities here and in India have intensified their search for an elderly man from Punjab who was on a visit here to see his relatives in Southall but has been missing since January 7. |
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- India Factfile ----------------------- - Ministry ----------------------- - Books ----------------------- - India Features ----------------------- - Opinion ----------------------- - In the Media ----------------------- - Festivals -----------------------  Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2012
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PBD-2012 In Pictures ----------------------- Key Speeches ----------------------- Jaipur Diary ----------------------- Watch PBD-2012 on YouTube ----------------------- :: PBD 2010 |
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Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs |
Vayalar Ravi, who assumed office as Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs on January 30, 2006, was born in 1937 in Vayalar village... ---------------------------
Special
Chaurasia's magic flute charms Poles |
The profile of Poland has gone up by many notches as a cultural destination for Indian art...
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