FRIDAY OCTOBER 25, 2024 INDIA THIS WEEK 1 A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.online Vol 33 No: 43 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday October 25, 2024 Maintaining peace and stability on border should remain our priority, PM Modi tells Chinese President Kazan [Russia], October 23 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of BRICS Summit here and welcomed the agreement reached between the two countries earlier this week on patrolling arrangements along Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. The Prime Minister said that maintaining peace and stability on the border should remain priority of the two countries and mutual trust should remain the basis of bilateral ties. He said that India-China relationship is important not only for people of the two countries but also for global peace, stability and progress. “We are having a formal meeting after five years. We believe that the India-China relationship is very important not only for our people but also for global peace, stability and progress. We welcome the consensus reached on the issues that have arisen in the last four years on the border. Maintaining peace and stability on the border should remain our priority. Mutual trust, mutual respect and mutual sensitivity should remain the basis of our relations,” PM Modi said. In a post on X, PM Modi said mutual respect and mutual sensitivity will guide the bilateral ties between the two countries. “Met President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Kazan BRICS Summit. India-China relations are important for the people of our countries, and for regional and global peace and stability. Mutual trust, mutual respect and mutual sensitivity will guide bilateral relations,” PM Modi said. This was the first structured interaction between the two leaders in five years and followed the two countries reaching an agreement on Monday on resuming regular patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. PM Modi’s last formal bilateral meet with Xi Jinping was in October 2019 in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu months before the June 2020 clashes in Galwan that led to a New Delhi, October 21 (ANI): In a significant development, India and China have reached an agreement on the patrolling arrangements along Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The agreement was reached ahead of the BRICS Summit which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. On agreement on patrolling at LAC, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, “...As a result of the discussions that have taken place over the last several weeks an agreement has been arrived at on patrolling arrangements along the line of actual control in the India-China border area and this is leading to disengagement and eventually a resolution of the issues that had arisen in these areas in 2020.” discussions over the past several weeks with Chinese interlocutors at both diplomatic and military levels.” He noted that military commanders have been involved in negotiations aimed at addressing the tensions that have persisted since 2020. Misri explained that the agreement signifies a path toward disengagement and a potential resolution of the issues that arose during the significant confrontations in 2020. He recalled the clashes that occurred between the People’s Liberation Army of China and the Indian Army, particularly highlighting the violent encounters in June 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides. This agreement marks a critical step in stabilizing relations between India and China, as both nations seek to manage their border disputes and prevent further military confrontations. military standoff. The two leaders met briefly during the Group of 20 meeting in Bali, Indonesia in 2022 and then in Johannesburg, South Africa (2023). The two leaders addressed the 16th BRICS Summit earlier in the day. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Monday that an agreement had been reached regarding patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the IndiaChina border areas. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told media persons that the agreement “is the outcome of extensive discussions over the past several weeks with Chinese interlocutors at both diplomatic and military levels.” China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, also confirmed the development in a regular press briefing, said, “We have reached a resolution on the relevant matter, will work with the Indian side to implement the resolution. We are in close communication through diplomatic and military channels.” “On several areas along the Line of Actual Control, we held discussions with Chinese interlocutors both on diplomatic as well as the military levels through meeting with military commanders at various levels. These discussions had in the past resulted in the resolution of standoffs at various locations. There are some locations and areas where stand-offs had not been resolved,” said Misri. “Now, as a result of the discussions taking place over the last several weeks an agreement has been arrived at on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the IndiaChina border areas. This is leading to disengagement and eventually a resolution of the issues that had arisen in these areas in 2020,” he added. This agreement marks a critical step in stabilizing relations between India and China, as both nations seek to manage their border disputes and prevent further military confrontations. In early May 2020, the troops of China’s People’s Liberation Army and Indian Army engaged in a melee at locations along the LAC, the disputed boundary between China and India. It escalated on June 15 -16, 2020 resulting in deaths on both sides. (ANI) After 4 years of stand-off, India and China reach agreement on patrolling along LAC Remember: Agreement reached on patrolling arrangements at LAC: MEA The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Monday that an agreement has been reached regarding patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the IndiaChina border area. The information was shared ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kazan, Russia, for the 16th BRICS summit scheduled from October 22 to October 24. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the media, stating that “this agreement is the outcome of extensive “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the Truth shall set you free.” –Jesus Christ
Friday INDIA THIS WEEK MORE Get from your retirement. 1. More for your money with our inclusive “Moving was a great decision for me! I feel confident in my future, and Monthly Service Package. 2. More amenities, including a pool, fitness I know that my needs will be taken care of.” center, and restaurants. 3. More peace of mind with additional —Marge V., A community resident on-site care should you need it. Discover more great reasons to choose an Erickson Senior Living®-managed community. Call 1-888-718-7402 or visit DMVSeniorLiving.com for your free brochure. 1420300 2 BRICS should not become antiWest group, India has important role to play: TS Tirumurti New Delhi [India], October 23 (ANI): Former diplomat and international affairs expert TS Tirumurti has said that India has a very important role to play in BRICS and the forum should not become an “antiWest group”. Tirumurti, a former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, told ANI that India has a stabilizing role in a world that is seeing geo-political tensions. “I think India has a very important role to play in BRICS. And I think BRICS itself has reached a very crucial juncture. It has had its ups and downs, but now we have expanded BRICS and we are also looking at partner countries,. So the role of India becomes even more important. The most important role we can play right now is to make sure that BRICS do not become an anti-west group. It is a non-West group, but it should not become an anti- West group because there are other things playing out in the rest of the world,” he said. “So I think India can play that stabilizing role through its contribution to make sure that, and we have played that role in Ukraine... I think thanks to our digital prowess, and our UPI, I think we have an important role to play,” he added. He praised PM Modi‘s efforts towards strengthening BRICS. Tirumurti also said that the western countries should be able to work with BRICS. PM Modi reached Russia on Tuesday and had bilateral meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian. In his pre-departure statement, PM Modi said that India values the close cooperation within BRICS which has emerged as an important platform for dialogue and discussion on issues concerning the global developmental agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate change, economic cooperation, building resilient supply chains, promoting cultural and people to people connect, among others. He said expansion of BRICS with the addition of new members last year has added to its inclusivity and agenda for the global good. (ANI)
FRIDAY OCTOBER 25, 2024 3
October 25, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK “Both of us will want to be bigger, more visible and effective in the world”: Jaishankar on India-China ties New Delhi [India], October 21 (ANI): Noting that India and China have unresolved boundary issues, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Monday that if two large neighbouring countries rise next to each other in the same time frame, it’s not too easy and that anybody predicting developments of this century cannot leave the two countries out of that equation. During an interaction at the NDTV World Summit, Jaishankar said the two countries have a certain civilization history and they are on a track of economic recovery or rejuvenation. He said both countries will naturally want to be bigger, more visible and more effective in the world. “IndiaChina, we are the only two countries with more than a billion people. We have a certain civilization history and today we are on a track of economic recovery or rejuvenation. Anybody who’s predicting developments of this century definitely cannot leave India and China out of that equation...Here is the challenge for us which is that we are neighbours, and we have unresolved New Delhi [India], October 21 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has been actively engaging with international leaders during his recent visits, focusing on crucial global issues such as foreign direct investment (FDI), technology, supply chains, maritime security, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar expressed his pleasure at meeting former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, stating, “Pleased to meet @David_Cameron. A nice discussion about the state of the world. Including about cricket.” Earlier during the day, Jaishankar also met Members of Parliament (MPs) from Australia and Germany, where he elaborated on various strategic topics. He shared in another X post, “Pleased to interact with MPs from Australia and Germany, today in Delhi. We exchanged views on FDI, technology, supply chains, maritime security, the IndoPacific and Ukraine.” This series of discussions underscores India’s growing significance on the global stage. Jaishankar recently spoke at the NDTV World Summit 2024, highlighting predictions from a Goldman Sachs study which stated that India is on track to become the third-largest economy in the world by 2030, with expectations of reaching a USD 52.5 trillion economy by 2075. He noted, “If one were to predict ahead...by 2075, we would be USD 52.5 trillion economy, we’d be second largest at that point in the world. But, much nearer, short-term prediction is that by 2030, we would probably be the third largest economy.” Jaishankar further emphasised the burgeoning Indian talent pool and its increasing global importance, stating, “Europe and North America want smooth movement of talent and skills out of India because the country’s demography is disproportionately large.” He articulated that leadership and attitude are vital qualities that countries should possess, especially in times of crises, citing examples such as the ongoing war in Ukraine and potential natural disasters in the Indian Ocean. This multifaceted engagement highlights India’s commitment to strengthening its international relationships and contributing to global stability and growth. (ANI) EAM Jaishankar discusses FDI, maritime security with international leaders boundary issues. They have been rising, we have also been rising, so if two large neighbouring countries rise next to each other in the same time frame, it’s not too easy. So managing this double rise, you can say that to in proximity, it’s a different issue and I think these will require a lot of skill and diplomacy,” he said. “The truth is our capabilities will change, our influence will change, our ambitions will change. Both of us will naturally want to be bigger, more visible and more effective in the world,” he added. He said India and China have reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements which would enable return of the situation before May 2020. Border tensions arose in eastern Ladakh along Line of Actual Control in 2020 due to actions of Chinese military. He said it was a “positive and good” development. Jaishankar referred to the remarks of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on the agreement on patrolling points along Line of Actual Control. “What Foreign Secretary has said is what I can also say, that we reached an agreement on patrolling and with that we have gone back to where the situation was in 2020. We can say that the disengagement process with China has been completed...There are areas which for various reasons after 2020 because they had blocked us so we had blocked them. So what has happened is we have reached an understanding which will allow the patrolling,” he said. “I think the understanding to my knowledge is that we will be able to do the patrolling which we were doing in 2020. I think it’s a good development. It’s a positive development and I would say it’s a product of very patient and very persevering diplomacy. We’ve been negotiating since September 2020, when I met my counterpart Wang Yi, in Moscow at that time...I think it creates a basis that peace and tranquility, which there should be in the border areas, which there was before 2020, we will be able to come back to that,” he added. The actions of Chinese military in 2020 along the LAC in eastern Ladakh had put the bilateral relationship under “exceptional stress”. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who addressed a special media briefing ahead of PM Modi’s visit to Russia for the BRICS Summit, said India and China have reached an agreement on the patrolling arrangements along Line of Actual Control (LAC). The agreement was reached ahead of the BRICS Summit which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Misri said as a result of the discussions with the Chinese interlocutors an agreement has been arrived at on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the India-China border areas. He said this is leading to dis-engagement and eventually a resolution of the issues that arose after action by Chinese military in eastern Ladakh in 2020. “We have been in discussion with Chinese interlocuters through WMCC as was mentioned earlier and at the military level as well through meetings of the military commanders at various levels. These discussions have in the past resulted in the resolution of standoffs at various locations. You are also aware that there were a few locations where the standoff had not been resolved,” he said. “Now as a result of the discussions that have taken place over the last several weeks an agreement has been arrived at on patroling arrangements along the line of actual control in the India-China border areas and this is leading to disengagement and eventually a resolution of the issues that had arisen in these areas in 2020.” Though no information is yet available on PM Modi’s bilateral meetings on the sidelines of BRICS Summit, the agreement on patrolling arrangements could pave the way for a meeting between PM Modi and the Chinese President. MEA had said after the last Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on IndiaChina Border Affairs (WMCC) held in August that the two sides had “a frank, constructive and forward-looking exchange of views on the situation along the LAC to narrow down the differences”.”In line with the guidance provided by two Foreign Ministers’ meetings in Astana and Vientiane in July 2024 to accelerate their discussion, and building on the WMCC meeting held last month, the two sides had a frank, constructive and forward-looking exchange of views on the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to narrow down the differences and find early resolution of the outstanding issues. For this, they further agreed for intensified contact through diplomatic and military channels,” MEA said in a release. It said the two sides have decided to jointly uphold peace and tranquillity on the ground in border areas in accordance with relevant bilateral agreements, protocols and understandings reached between the two Governments. The release reiterated that restoration of peace and tranquility, and respect for LAC are the essential basis for restoration of normalcy in bilateral relations. The WMCC meeting was held in Beijing. PM Modi will visit Russia on October 22, 23 to attend the 16th BRICS Summit, being held in Kazan, under the Chairmanship of Russia. The Summit, themed ‘Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,’ will provide an important platform for leaders to discuss key global issues.MEA said in a release that the Summit will offer a valuable opportunity to assess the progress of initiatives launched by BRICS and to identify potential areas for future collaboration. It said PM Modi is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts from BRICS member countries and invited leaders. (ANI)
FRIDAY OCTOBER 25, 2024 5
October 25, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Andhra becomes first state to introduce FLN training for govt teachers Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh) [India], October 21 (ANI): B. Srinivasa Rao, IAS, State Project Director of Samagra Shiksha on Monday informed that Andhra Pradesh has become the first state in India to introduce Foundation Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) training for Grade 1 and Grade 2 teachers in government schools, a press release said. He further emphasised that the initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the National Educational Policy. The six-day FLN Training Program, organized under the auspices of the School Education Department and Samagra Shiksha, was inaugurated on Monday at the YeSJ Convention Center, Andhra Loyola College campus, by Srinivasa Rao. Additional Director of Samagra Shiksha, A. Subba Reddy, NTR District DEO, and APCs Subbarao and Maheshwar Rao were present at the event. Speaking on the occasion, Rao said that improving the quality of education in government schools is the primary objective of the FLN training, which will be implemented at the grassroots level. He said that this FLN training has been designed in alignment with the National Education Policy and Nipun Bharat. He emphasized that the training is focused on Grades 1 and 2, aiming to provide quality education to children aged from 3 to 8 years within the Government Education System. And the need for a perspective that primary education quality should improve, and if the quality of education in government schools improves, there will be no need for parents to opt for private schools. He further added that this initiative will help create an environment conducive to revitalizing the education system and ensuring that every student achieves educational standards, thereby yielding fruitful results. State Project Director mentioned that From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- October 4, 2024 Arrogance Author Unknown In the mirror’s gleam, it stands so tall, A shadow’s pride, it casts a pall. With every glance, it soars above, A heart unmoved by praise or love. It struts in halls of echoing praise, A king in an unending daze. Yet in its chest, a hollow sound, For arrogance knows no solid ground. It speaks of skies it’s never seen, And wears a crown that’s always green. But pride, though loud, is fickle, thin, And vanity’s a brittle skin. So when you meet that towering guise, Remember, pride’s a blind disguise. For true strength lies in humble heart, Where wisdom’s quiet, not a part. 34,000 teachers in the Grade 1 and Grade 2 categories across the state would participate in 14 spells, and urged the teaching community to make this monumental task initiated by the Andhra Pradesh Education Department a big success. He expressed confidence that this program, which aims to give a new direction to the education sector, would stand as a historic milestone in the state’s public education sector. On this occasion, he also unveiled the Foundation Literacy and Numeracy Modules. The districts where the training is being conducted are Sri Vishwavijetha Junior College (Srikakulam), Oyster International School (Vizianagaram), Satyasai Parimala Polytechnic College (Rajahmundry, East Godavari), Yes-J Center, Loyola College (NTR District), Muvva Chinna Bapireddy Memorial Trust (Pedaparimi, Guntur), Madhji School (Tirupati), Global Engineering College (YSR Kadapa), BIT Institute of Technology (Hindupur, Sri Sathya Sai District), and Vijayabharathi B.Ed. College (Bukkarayasamudram, Anantapur District), the release said. As part of the first spell, approximately 1,700 teachers across the state attended the residential training, it added. (ANI) INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online India extends Rs 487.60 crores line of credit to Mauritius for water pipeline project New Delhi [India], October 17 (ANI): India has taken a significant step in strengthening its ties with Mauritius by extending a new Line of Credit of rupee 487.60 Crores for financing a water pipeline replacement project. According to the Ministry of External Affairs statement, This is the first-ever rupeedenominated Line of Credit to have been extended by India for project financing to any country under the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS). M E A spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared a post on X, and wrote, “Strengthening our development partnership with the Global South! India extends its first Rs(Rupee) Line of Credit under the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS). GoI supported LoC of Rs487.60 Crore financed by SBI to Mauritius at concessional terms for a Water Pipeline Replacement Project.” The project envisages the replacement of approximately 100 km of obsolete water pipeline in Mauritius. The GOIsupported Line of Credit will be financed by the State Bank of India at concessional terms. External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, made the formal offer to his Mauritian counterpart, Maneesh Gobin, which has now been accepted by the Government of Mauritius. This is yet another reflection of India’s longstanding commitment to the overall socio-economic development of countries in the Global South. India’s development projects continue to be driven by the aspirations and needs of its partner countries. Recently, Jaishakar paid an official visit to Mauritius on July 16-17. This is the first visit by EAM to Mauritius in his current term. During his visit, EAM and Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth virtually inaugurated 12 India-assisted Community Development Projects. They also inaugurated a Mediclinic in Grand Bois along with the first overseas JanAushadi Kendra, testifying to the close cooperation between our countries, especially in the important sector of health. Further, EAM met key Mauritian leaders during the visit and reaffirmed India’s commitment to the continued strengthening of the longstanding and trusted Partnership between India and Mauritius. (ANI) Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST
FRIDAY OCTOBER 25, 2024 7 Bengaluru Rains: Karnataka Deputy CM inspects flooded Kendriya Vihara complex in Yelahanka, urges swift remedial action B e n g a l u r u (Karnataka) [India], October 23 (ANI): Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar along with Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) officials visited and inspected the Kendriya Vihara residential complex in Benglauru’s Yalahanka suburb that has been flooded with rainwater. According to Deputy CM DK Shivakumar’s Office, he instructed the corporation officials to immediately carry out the necessary remedial work. Bengaluru North has been grappling with severe flooding following a heavy thunderstorm that swept through the region last night. While the Kendriya Vihar apartments were initially recognised to be the most affected, other areas of Yelahanka also struggled with inundation after heavy a downpour overnight, leaving residents unable to leave their homes for days. Earlier on Tuesday, amid heavy downpour in parts of North Bengaluru, Yelahanka MLA, SR Vishwanath, visited a flooded apartment while riding on a bulldozer. As heavy rains persist in Bengaluru, tech hubs such as Manyata Tech Park face significant waterlogging issues, residents in areas like Basavanagudi and Indiranagar report little to no effects from the downpour. Earlier, heavy rainfall in Bengaluru on Monday night led to severe waterlogging in various parts of the city. Bengaluru Traffic Police said that there was slow moving traffic on outer ring road at Ecospace junction and towards Devarabesanahalli to Bellandur junction due to water logging. The situation in the city prompted opposition parties to take a dig at the Congress led government in the state. Janata Dal Secular posted on X, “Ah, just another day in Bengaluru where Congress government’s blunders has turned Bengaluru’s world-class infrastructure seamlessly into a mini Venice due to the rains. Kudos to Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar for their visionary leadership – Bengaluru is really floating into the future. Maybe next term, we can invest in boats instead of roads?” Earlier on Monday, several flight disruptions were reported at Kempegowda International Airport. More than 20 were flights delayed and 4 flights were diverted to Chennai, an official said. A Thai Lion Air flight that was coming from Thailand was also diverted to Chennai, officials said. Earlier the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted more rains in Bengaluru over the next two days. IMD said that light to moderate rainfall at Isolated places in Karnataka very likely over rest of the region during the week. (ANI)
October 25, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Nirmala Sitharaman highlights India’s process, governance reforms for more investor-friendly engagements New York [US], October 22 (ANI): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that India has undertaken a host of process and governance reforms over the last 10 years for more investorfriendly engagement. While addressing the Roundtable on Investment Opportunities in India’ at the New York Stock Exchange on Monday, Sitharaman termed improving the ease of doing business parameters and reducing the regulatory and compliance burdens for enterprises in India as New Delhi’s policy cornerstone. Various pension funds and other institutional investors and fund managers across the US attended the Roundtable at the New York Stock Exchange. In a post on X, the Ministry of Finance stated, “Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. @nsitharamanaddresses the Roundtable on ‘Investment Opportunities in India’ at the New York Stock Exchange @NYSE, the oldest and the largest Stock Exchange in the World, with around 11 Indian companies listed on it. The Roundtable is being attended by various pension funds and other institutional investors and fund managers across USA, forming one of the largest financial systems in the world in terms of total assets under management.” In her address, Sitharaman stressed on India’s digital prowess that will define its growth and development in the next years with digitization reforms and the resulting efficiency gains becoming important drivers of India’s economic growth in the medium to long term. Taking to X, the Ministry of Finance stated, “FM Smt. @nsitharaman emphasised India’s policy cornerstone is improving the Ease of Doing Business #EoDB parameters and reducing the regulatory and compliance burdens for enterprises in India, and India has undertaken a host of process and governance #reforms over the last decade for more investor-friendly engagement. Combining all these reforms, FM Smt. @nsitharaman emphasised on India’s digital prowess that will define India’s growth and development in the coming decade with #digitisation #reforms and the resulting #efficiency gains becoming important drivers of India’s economic growth in the medium to long term.” Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, arrived in the United States and received a warm welcome at Newark Liberty International Airport on Sunday (local time). I n d i a ’ s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and Consul General of India in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, welcomed Sitharaman, following her arrival from Mexico City. Highlighting India’s growth, Sitharaman stated that India’s market capitalization has reached USD 5.5 trillion and is currently at the fourth spot after the US, China, and Japan, demonstrating that the reforms are showing results. In a post on X, the Ministry of Finance stated, “The Union Finance Minister informed the Roundtable participants that India’s market capitalisation has reached USD 5.5-trillion milestone and is currently ranked fourth globally, after US, China, and Japan., indicating that India’s #reforms are yielding results. Referring to India’s maiden International Financial Services Centre @GIFTCity_ FM Smt. @nsitharaman said that some global players and investors like @CitiBank @jpmorgan; @MorganStanley; @BankofAmerica are already engaging with it. “The Union Finance Minister further informed that as of August 2024, more than 650 + entities across Banks, Capital Markets, Insurance, FinTech, Aircraft Leasing, Ship Leasing, Bullion Exchange, etc have been registered with the @IFSCA_Official,” it added. Union Finance Minister stressed that infrastructure is a key priority for the Indian government. She noted that India’s journey into the future entails various opportunities for investment collaboration and participation by global investors. “FM Smt. @nsitharaman said that since #Infrastructure is a key priority of the Government of India, NIIF was especially set up as a collaboration between public and private investors, and today it is backed by several highly leading global and domestic investors, Outlining a host of new investment opportunities that exist across the NIIF platform, the Union Finance Minister said that NIIF anchors investments in a manner that mitigates risk for the investors,” Ministry of Finance said in a post on X. “She outlined that NIIF is coming up with a host of new Funds such as the Private Markets Fund II, US-India Green Transition Fund (USIGF) and the Master Fund II all of which provide exciting opportunities for long term investment and returns. Going into the #AmritKaal towards #ViksitBharat in 2047, FM Smt. @nsitharaman said that India’s journey into the future entails a multitude of opportunities for investment collaboration, and participation by global investors,” it added. N o t a b l y , Sitharaman was in Mexico from October 17-20, where she interacted with political and business leaders from various sectors in both Guadalajara and Mexico City. She had invited Mexican investors to explore opportunities in India’s Global In-House Capability Centers (GICCs), aircraft leasing, ship leasing, and even foreign university setups at GIFTIFSC, which is emerging as a global hub for reinsurance and sustainable finance. She had also participated in the India-Mexico Trade and Investment Summit. Earlier in September, the Ministry of Finance notified the new Foreign Exchange ( C o m p o u n d i n g Proceedings) Rules 2024 to simplify rules and regulations for foreign investments. The new rules are aimed at streamlining and rationalising existing rules and regulations to further facilitate ease of doing business. The Finance Ministry said in a statement, “As part of a broader initiative to streamline and rationalise existing rules and regulations to further facilitate ease of doing business, the compounding proceeding rules were comprehensively reviewed in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India.” The new rule will replace the existing Foreign Exchange (Compounding Proceedings) Rules 2000. The ministry said that the government is emphasising simplifying the provisions to expedite and streamline the processing of compounding applications. The finance ministry is also working to introduce digital payment options for application fees and compounding amounts, with a focus on simplification and rationalisation of the provisions to eliminate ambiguity and clarify the process. “These amendments indicate the commitment of the government towards promoting ‘ease of investment’ for investors and ‘ease of doing business’ for businesses,” the ministry said. The Compounding of Foreign Exchange (FEMA) Proceedings Rules, 2000 govern the process of resolving or settling offences related to violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999. Compounding under these rules allows individuals or entities to admit a violation and pay a penalty to avoid protracted litigation or criminal prosecution. The move was taken after Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sithraman emphasised that the government would prioritise foreign investment in the country and that it would come up with flexible rules to promote foreign investments. (ANI) To Place Advertisements Call: 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 Email:indiathisweekads@gmail.com Indiathisweek.online
FRIDAY OCTOBER 25, 2024 Indian-American Team Takes on Guinness World Record Challenge Silver Spring, MD, September 22, 2024 – In a remarkable display of teamwork and perseverance, a group of Indian-American from Maryland made a bold attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the Fastest Time to Set Up a 4-Man Tent. The team was led by three counselors—Mabel Samuel from Karnataka, Jesudas Sam, and Samuel Durai Pandian from Tamil Nadu—along with seven youth participants aged 11 to 15, all of Indian descent. The youth team included Jaydon Jesudas Sam, Jonathan Jesudas Sam, Liana Samantha Pandian, Adriel Ivan Suresh Kumar Tenali, Sydelle Fernando, Jordon Yedla, and Shaan Masih. Their combined efforts reflected the rich cultural heritage and unity of the Indian-American community, as they came together to take on this ambitious challenge. This attempt was part of their participation in the Believe in the Promise (BTP) International Pathfinder Camporee, an event that gathered over 60,000 young people from nearly 100 countries, celebrating service, diversity, and global unity The Pathfinder Club, a global organization sponsored by the Seventhday Adventist Church, has been fostering the mental, physical, and spiritual growth of youth aged 10 to 15 since its founding in 1946. This year, one of the standout events at the Camporee was the attempt to break four Guinness World Records, including the 4-man tent-setup challenge. The previous record stood at 1 minute and 58 seconds, a difficult feat requiring precise teamwork and coordination. Seventeen teams registered for the tentsetup competition, all adhering to the strict guidelines established by Guinness World Records. Remarkably, our team was the only one to surpass the current world record. The rules required the tents to be fully assembled, with participants entering the tent and signaling completion to ensure accuracy. The attempt was carefully monitored by witnesses Jaisson Jagadeeshwaran and Ameth Philip, with precise timekeeping handled by sports coaches Michael Bungess and Yoel Habtemariam, using stopwatches accurate to 0.01 seconds. Pathfinders are required to participate in at least one camp each year, but rarely do they forget a camp affected by heavy rains. For many in the SASDAC Pathfinder Club, their most vivid memories are of these rainy campouts, where setting up a tent quickly was not just a skill but a necessity to stay dry. These experiences, where swift teamwork and resilience were tested, laid the foundation for their ambitious attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the fastest time to set up a 4-man tent. For years, the SASDAC Pathfinders honed their skills in adverse conditions, learning that what started as a routine camping task—pitching a tent— could become a critical test of their adaptability and perseverance. As Director Lovella Fernando explains: “Camping teaches our Pathfinders grit, resilience and true teamwork. Stepping out of their comfort zones, facing challenges like cleaning up after storms and helping each other stay dry aren’t setbacks— they’re opportunities. These experiences bring us closer as a club and instill valuable lessons in survival, kindness and unity.” Overcoming Challenges The Southern Asian Seventh-day Adventist Church (SASDAC) Sentinels club faced numerous challenges. Traveling 1,800 miles from Maryland to Gillette, Wyoming, they had to adapt to unfamiliar weather conditions and unpredictable winds that could affect the setup of the tents. In addition, physical exhaustion from camping activities and illness within the team added to the difficulty. Although the team did not break the record at the Camporee, they were determined to keep trying. “Though we wrapped things up at Gillette, we chose to keep going,” said team leader Mabel Samuel. “There may be countless reasons to give up, but the pursuit of our dreams is worth every challenge. Never give up!.” The team reached out to Jeff “PJ” Deming, the coordinator, and Todd Casey, the director of Camporee Special Event, to arrange another attempt back in Maryland. Encouraged by Ronald Whitehead, executive director of the BTP International Camporee, who said, “This is a significant undertaking, and you have our full support,” the team remained committed to their goal. The pathfinders took an organized approach in their record attempt, dividing into three groups: the fly team, responsible for spreading the tent cover; the tent team, handling the main structure; and the rod team, focused on securing the poles and ropes. Each team had a well-defined role, and success depended on seamless coordination between them. Jaydon Sam, age 14, reflected on the experience, saying, “Working together with my friends showed me that success isn’t just about being fast—it’s about trusting each other and moving forward together.” Despite the time pressure, the team learned that their real strength lay in mutual trust and cooperation. The team practiced tirelessly, aiming to shave off seconds with each attempt. “All your life, you never think of working in seconds, but this record attempt made us so conscious of time,” said Samuel. “It’s incredibly 9 challenging, especially for teens, to stay mindful of every single second. Once we hit that twominute mark, every second mattered.” The team is now awaiting official verification from Guinness World Records, and their achievement is already being celebrated within the North American Division Adventist community. “This is the first time in over 30 years of running international Camporees that a local club wants to follow up and accomplish a world record attempt that wasn’t completed at the Camporee itself,” said Ronald Whitehead. Regardless of the outcome, the SASDAC Sentinels have demonstrated that determination and teamwork can overcome any obstacle. Reflecting on the journey, Mabel Samuel said, “ “No dream is too small to pursue, It’s never over until you say it’s over.”
Fleepit Digital © 2021