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March 9, 2015 by Yadu Singh

Sad and shocked with brutal murder of Ms Prabha Arun Kumar in Westmead, NSW

Press release:

9th March, 2015

Indian Australian community is sad & shocked with the brutal murder of Indian IT professional, Ms Prabha Arun Kumar in Sydney, NSW.

Ms Kumar was stabbed to death in a lane way connecting Park Parade, Parramatta and Amos Street, Westmead, NSW at 9.30 PM on Saturday, 7th March, 2015. At the time of the attack, she was on phone with her husband in India.

She was from Bangalore, India and was on work visa, working for a software company in Sydney. She was due to return to India next month. She is survived by her husband and a 9 year old daughter.

It is a tragic and heart-breaking news. Our heart goes out to her family, especially her husband and daughter.

We know that NSW Police is investigating this crime to find the culprits, responsible for this heinous crime. We want them to keep our community in the information loop, as there is massive concern and grief in the community.

We ask local Police, Parramatta Council and Parramatta Park Trust to do an urgent review of the area to figure out and fix the security black-spots in that area. Lightening and CCTV facilities should be installed and improved if that is what needs to be done to improve safety and security of people in the area.

We ask Premier Mike Baird and NSW Labor’s leader, Luke Foley, to outline their plans for crime control and for safety and security in the area specifically, and Western Sydney generally.

We also urge people to be aware of their personal safety each and every time they venture out of their home, whether it is for work or leisure.

We appeal to people to contact local Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 if they have any info, which might help Police to arrest the perpetrators and solve this heinous crime.

Dr Yadu Singh

President, Indian Australian Association of NSW Inc

0413 375 669

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PS: I have visited the area this morning and have spoken with some members of the community.

December 24, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you and your family

Dr Yadu Singh & family

Sydney, Australia

Dec 24, 2014

Twitter: www.twitter.com/dryadusingh

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November 25, 2014 by Yadu Singh

My speech at the UWS event for Indian community on 24th Nov, 2014

This is the speech I delivered, as a guest speaker, at the University of Western Sydney (UWS) event for Indian community at Parravilla, Parramatta on Monday, 24th November, 2014. —————————————————————————————————–

Thank you for the kind words.

Prof Peter Shergold, Chancellor of University of Western Sydney, dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen,

Namaste and good evening,

I am grateful and feel privileged to have this opportunity to speak to you tonight.

SO WHERE ARE WE – AS A COMMUNITY- TODAY, AND WHERE DO WE NEED TO BE TOMORROW?

There are about 500,000 people of Indian heritage in Australia and more than 100,000 of them live in New South Wales. Most of the migrants from India have arrived in the last 10 years and India has been the top source of migrants to Australia over the last few years. Most people have come to this country as skilled migrants. Obviously, skilled migrants contribute to the Australian economy significantly. Our people not only take part in the service industry and public services, many of them are also into businesses, particularly small businesses, thus creating jobs. Indian migrants give significant importance for education of their children. It is not uncommon that they work hard, sometimes long hours and even two jobs, to make enough money so that they are able to send their children to private schools. Indian migrants are generally law-abiding people and their focus is significantly on the families and family values. Even after they become Australian Citizens, they continue to remain in touch with their extended families back home in India. This is something which has a great advantage to India. The inward remittance of 70 billion US dollars to India by overseas Indians in the years 2013-14 shows how valuable this is for India. To put this in perspective, the bilateral trade between Australia and India is only $15 billion Australian dollars and the bilateral trade between India and China is $60 billion US dollars, 2/3^rd of which in each case is in favour of the other party. With the new Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi taking office in May 2014, it is likely that investment policies will be streamlined. This is expected to accelerate investment in India not only from businesses from all over the world but also from Indians who are living overseas. Overseas Indians have great attachment with India. This would be strengthened, particularly for second and subsequent generations, and may even increase investment from them, if India were to see merits in granting dual citizenship to overseas Indians, just like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and most developed and democratic nations grant this to their citizens.

Focusing on New South Wales, most Indian Australians are in Sydney, especially Western Sydney. There are constituencies where Indians constitute more than 15% of voters, thus able to influence outcomes of elections. To give an example, my surname “Singh” is the most common surname in Blacktown. Indian Australians have significant presence in trades like medicine, law, banking, accounting, IT, food and catering, migration services and small to medium consumer businesses. They are creating jobs for quite a number of people as you would expect from the small business sector in any part of the economy. Many of us have good names in the professional arena. Some of us have started to make a mark in charity related work. Admirably, there are some who have become involved in helping the homeless with food and clothing. This is all laudable, but I know we can do more.

Some of us are fortunate enough to have our elderly parents moving to Australia. But with a passage of time, many of them feel lonely because there are not many people with whom they can socialize with when their family is away due to the usual commitments like work or education. Many of them have an element of isolation and depression. We do have many groups catering to them, but this definitely needs some more thinking, more work and co-ordination. We also need to think about culturally appropriate nursing homes and other care facilities, where our elderly people can be placed or cared for, when it becomes necessary. In the twilight years of their life it would be important that our elders are provided with solutions around language barriers and dietary requirements which they have been accustomed to.

Like any other migrant group, which comes to these shores with good education, our people do get jobs without much difficulty. There are definitely some who struggle to find jobs which are commensurate with their training and experience. Lack of local experience is often quoted when they are declined employment. This is one area where incentives to employers as a government policy could be worth lobbying for. Even though there are Government services which try and aid employment, there is a need for some thought from the community to guide our newer migrants helping them to settle into life and employment. Mentoring of newer migrants, when necessary, will be very helpful.

There are hundreds of political parties in India which have their support base mostly in a particular geographical part of India. This is reflected here too. While there are a few pan-Indian based community associations, a lot more associations in our community are based on language or region of India. It is not necessarily a bad thing because the basic purpose of community organisations is comradery and friendship among people who relate to that particular set of criteria. Indians love to have community associations, replicating the experience in India. There is often a fierce competition among associations which, at times, is irrational and illogical. They end up duplicating or even triplicating the same activity to satisfy their ego and “Me too” syndrome. There is a need for some consolidation and understanding among community associations particularly on matters of common community goals. These goals could be mentoring of new migrants for employment and settlement, health education on important health matters and lobbying the political leadership in favour of community interests. It would be productive for community associations to become more accepting of their counterparts and working with one another towards common goals. A dialogue must start and some key Indian media must take the initiative for this job. It is imperative that we put our egos behind and recognise the good qualities of our people. Mirroring what happens in India, many community leaders continue to hold their positions for 10, 20 or even 25 years which stifles the growth of new ideas and perpetuate ego-based unnecessary competition. We need young Indians to be active and we should encourage them to take leadership roles within the associations. Taking a cue from Australian politics, we need to start preparing the next set of leaders in our community. What is the point of holding a position with nothing to show as a result apart from some pictures on Facebook? Triviality such as taking pictures with leaders cannot be the sole focus of our community leaders.

It is vital to have leaders who understand their responsibilities towards the community and are effective communicators. A lot more could be done if the direction we as a community take is relevant and productive. Being an optimist, I envision a community where we would engage in meaningful dialogue among ourselves so that we are able to share problems and develop solutions. Only then will we be able to serve for the benefit of our community. For example, an Indian cultural center that is actually accessible. Or addressing the concerning fact that fewer women of Indian heritage use mammogram screening compared to the screening rates in the general Australian population.

In regards to our political participation, I know Subcontinent Friends of Labor is an active group of Labor party members and supporters. Similarly, Liberal Friends of India has been quite energetic in creating a network of Liberal party supporters. But more can be done. I believe that more and more of us should join the political process at various levels if we are ever going to gain greater political representation in Parliament.

Except for Senator Lisa Singh, a representative of Tasmania in the Federal Senate there is no other person from an Indian heritage who is a member of a State or Federal Parliament. There are, however, several councilors and a few Deputy Mayors too, but, to the best of my knowledge, there is no person from the Indian-Australian community who is a Mayor in this country. When we compare this with other ethnic backgrounds particularly Lebanese and Chinese, the contrast is quite stark. It is a common point of discussion among us in moments of reflection. It is clear that division in our community, based on ego and some other factors has created a situation preventing us from having a significant political presence, which is commensurate with our numbers.

So what is the solution? Do we vote for every Indian who contests in an election? I have no doubt that a mature community will base its decision on the ability and capacity of candidates instead of their race or religion. We want the best MPs to represent us in Parliament and factors like race and religion should not be given undue importance. We should encourage Indians to join political parties and participate in the processes including pre-selections. I don’t believe it is a good idea to form a political party based on ethnicity, or an association based on caste.

Australia-based Government of India officials’ interactions with the community are, at times, less than satisfactory either because of their services, which may not meet our expectations or because they have meddled in community politics. This is counterproductive and needs to change. GOI officials need to understand, and accept, that they are public servants and are here to be of assistance to NRIs/PIOs, in addition to fulfilling their responsibilities, given to them by GOI. It is of mutual interest and benefit to have a constructive and supportive relationship between GOI agencies and the diaspora.

Our media is active, vibrant and crowded, which is not too dissimilar to community associations. They do, and can play, a very vital role by using their reach and clout for bridging divisions in the community, supporting good leadership and good work, and advocating for key community goals. They must stay away from partisan agenda, which, sadly, is the case with a few of them.

So, ladies and gentlemen, Indian Australians are indeed a great community which is highly qualified and politically aware. Despite the size of our community we have not achieved satisfactory success in political representation, largely because of our own deficiencies. This will, and can change if we refocus our energies and vision. We can do this refocusing if we start recognizing the good qualities and work of our people giving them that extra bit of support. We need to start networking and coordinating with the plethora of community groups for our common goals. We need to control our envy, “Tall Poppy Syndrome” or “Crab” mentality, if we ever want to take our community to its deserved heights. I believe that it is doable as we are smart and pragmatic people. Nothing is impossible and there is nothing which we cannot achieve if we put our hearts together as a community. We must be united for and by our common goals for the community.

Thank you very much for your attention.

Namaste!

———————————————————————————————————————————— Dr Yadu Singh, Sydney, 25th Nov, 2014 http://www.twitter.com/dryadusingh http://www.facebook.com/dryadusingh

November 14, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Expectations from Prime Minister Modi

Sydney, 14th November, 2014

Expectations from the Modi Govt

Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, is visiting Australia between 15^th and 18^th Nov, 2014. After attending G20 summit in Brisbane on 15^th and 16^th November, he will start his state visit. Indian community is excited with this visit. This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister after PM Rajiv Gandhi visited Australia in 1986. PM Modi will interact with the community in Sydney and Melbourne, in addition to addressing a Joint session of Australian Parliament.

Prime Minister Modi’s image is that of a decisive and a “can do” leader. Indians, not just in India but around the world, are optimistic that things will change for the better and the Indian economy will grow rapidly.

When I wrote a post in June, 2014, I mentioned many things which people expected. Many of those things have either been delivered or getting delivered. Prime Ministerial visit to Australia is one of them. Nuclear trade deal has already been signed when Prime Minister Tony Abbott visited India in September. Australian citizens getting the facility of Visa on arrival in India is another one which is in the process of getting implemented. Serious work is in progress in regards to Black money, stashed in overseas Banks. Supreme Court’s activism is playing an important role in it. Investigations and prosecutions are likely to commence soon. Based on my interactions with many Indians in Australia, there are a few more things that people expect the new government to deliver.

Genuine dual citizenship: This has been discussed and debated for long. There is an almost universal demand that overseas Indians be given a right to hold genuine dual citizenship with voting and property rights, if the country of their citizenship has no issue with this and if there are no security issues with granting dual citizenship to any particular overseas Indian. If USA, UK, Australia and most of developed and democratic countries as well as some countries in the region see no issues in granting dual citizenship to their citizens, then people argue that there is no rational basis for India to deny dual citizenship to Indians. PM Modi has the political capital to deliver this long-standing demand. A petition and campaign for Dual citizenship is running on Change.org (http://tinyurl.com/kxtlosw) and Social media presently (http://tinyurl.com/m4b4luu).

Effective anti-corruption body: A group of 10-15 people from civil society including eminent jurists and overseas Indians (if possible) as well as politicians should be asked to review the Lokpal Act, passed by the Lok Sabha earlier, and suggest steps to rectify weaknesses to make it an effective corruption fighting body. Such body should have sufficient resources to discharge its functions. Unlike previous Govts, this whole process to fine-tune this should not take more than one year from the time NDA Govt took office.

The PM’s global Overseas Indians Advisory body: The PM should revamp his Global Advisory Body, constituted by the previous Govt. People in it should be those who have significant presence, influence and interactions among Indians in their countries. The practice of Indian diplomats recommending their sycophants to become members of this body should be done away with.

Country specific Overseas Indian Advisory body: Countries with significant overseas Indian populations (Australia is certainly one such country) should have an advisory body of not more than 10 people, which can be used for consultations and other advisory purposes, not only by the local GOI authorities/agencies, but also the relevant authorities/agencies in India. Its term should be for not more than 2 years.

Annual consultation between High Commission and Community: Previous High Commissioner of India in Australia, and current External Affairs Secretary, Smt Sujatha Singh, started a novel, and productive, mechanism to meet the community representatives in Canberra on a yearly basis. Representatives from all over Australia would assemble on a weekend to discuss and suggest things to Indian diplomats. Current High Commissioner, Biren Nanda, did not continue this practice. The communication from High Commission and community has been limited and confined to a small group of people, who are close to HCI. Previous practice of community consultation needs to be reactivated.

Annual dialogue between Indian and Australian leaders: Indian Australians will like to see formal and regular annual meetings between PMs, Foreign Affairs Ministers and Defence Ministers, with venues alternating between India and Australia.

Free Trade Agreement (FTA): The pace of the discussions and negotiations should be accelerated so that FTA can be concluded by the end of 2015. This will accelerate bilateral trade which has come down to about $15 billion from previous high of $21 billion. This is important as Australia already has FTAs with Japan, South Korea and China.

Bilateral and multi-lateral defence exercises between India and Australia: India and Australia should work actively to enhance their defence & strategic relations bilaterally and multilaterally in the pattern agreed prior to the 2007 Rudd Govt in Australia.

Hindi teachings in Australian Universities: To increase India’s soft power and increase the numbers of India-literate Australians, India should consider seriously funding such teaching courses in at least one University each in Sydney and Melbourne. Discussions should be had between relevant authorities to explore equal sharing of cost between Australia and India.

Facilitations of Australian Universities and TAFE to have campuses in India: Many Australian institutions are ranked quite highly in various world Universities ranking systems. Collaborations in this field should be actively facilitated and encouraged, following a pragmatic and win-win module. Indian regulations to facilitate this should be considered.

Recognition of TAFE diploma in India: Many Indian students come to Australia to train in TAFE institutes. Many then move on to Universities to complete degrees. In addition to the diplomas not being recognised to the extent that the students wanting to pursue this study in Australia do not even get the education loans, Association of Indian Universities (the peak body responsible for recognising foreign degrees) does not recognise even Bachelor degrees that may have resulted from a credit transfer after a diploma resulting in the degree component being lesser than 3 year duration. (Diploma to Degree). This is a unique feature of Australian Qualification framework and so should be understood by Educational authorities. Quite a good numbers of Indians in Australia have earned their degrees through this pathway. TAFE institutes are a unique institution and it will be beneficial for India to consider recognizing diplomas from TAFE.

Bilateral Internship positions for Australians and Indians: Institutes and Universities of repute in both countries should be encouraged to develop mechanisms to have short term (3-6 months) placements for students and researchers to enhance collaboration in science and research.

Indian media’s bureau/representatives in Australia: During 2009-10, Indian media reported issues involving Indian students in an exaggerated way, erroneously attributing racism in literally every incident. They did not interact with local long-term Indians. It was harder for media to have a grasp of the ground realities. It will be helpful if key media outlets consider basing their representatives in Australia to cover Oceania. With increasing trade related activities between Australia and India and with increased number of Indians here, there could be sufficient justification for such decisions. Indian Govt can encourage media houses to take up this matter. A good beginning could be of a posting a full time Press Trust of India (PTI) reporter in Australia.

Indian Consulate in Brisbane: Queensland is an important state for Indian investment. Indian business houses like the Adani group have an important and a significant presence in this state. It is important to have an Indian Consulate in Brisbane.

India House or Indian Cultural Centre in major capital cities: There are more than 500,000 people of Indian heritage in Australia, with a big concentration in Sydney and Melbourne. People believe that there should be Indian cultural centers in Australia, at least in Sydney and Melbourne. While some funding will be raised locally, a significant part of the funds should come from Indian Govt. Govt of India (GOI) Funds, if any, allocated for something of this nature to be established in the Indian Consulate premises in Sydney CBD should be reviewed and re-allocated for a center of this nature in areas like Parramatta or Blacktown, where the Indian community has a substantial presence. Sydney CBD is not a practical or appropriate site for an Indian Cultural Centre.

Overseas Indians’ property in India: Many overseas Indians are seeing that their properties are illegally occupied and face threats to their safety when they visit India. Court cases go on for extended periods of time. Indian Penal Code and relevant laws should be amended to tackle this menace.

Interactions between GOI agencies and Indian Australian community: It is often felt that GOI authorities in Australia do not interact with people sufficiently, thus leading to a communication gap. It is a common experience that there is a significant gap between what we expect and what is delivered. It is also felt that GOI officials often get embroiled in local community politics and play “favoritism” games depending on who they like or dislike. It is quite irrational and subjective. Steps should be implemented to improve the situation.

Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs visit to Australia: With approx. 500,000 people of Indian heritage in Australia, a biennial visit of Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs (The Hon Sushma Swaraj) or her deputy, The Hon Gen (Retd) V K Singh or External Affairs Secretary, should be included in the official GOI travel calendar. This will help facilitate interactions with the community and facilitate Overseas Indians’ investment in India.

Streamlined grievance redressal mechanism for Overseas Indians: Overseas Indian Affairs ministry has often not been very helpful and help has often not come in a timely fashion due to excessive bureaucratic influences. This should be reviewed and streamlined.

Exchanges between Academicians and civil Society leaders: We need regular bilateral exchange visits of academics, journalists, leaders and civil society leaders. This will help improve relations between the two countries. The scope and numbers should be increased.

In summary, it will be of mutual benefit to the community in Australia and India if the Indian government is proactive in considering the interests and welfare of the Indian community down under.

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/14th November, 2014

dryadusingh@gmail.com

www.twitter.com/dryadusingh

September 11, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Congratulation, Dr Harry Harinath, New Chair, NSW Community Relations Commission (CRC)!

Sydney, Thursday, 11th September, 2014

Dr Harry Harinath has been appointment by the NSW Government to be the new Chair of the Community Relations Commission (CRC) yesterday.

Congratulations, Dr Harry Harinath!

Dr Harinath is a prominent Australian of Indian heritage, and is a well-respected medical doctor.

He has been a respected member of Medical profession for 40 years. He was part of NSW Cricket for 30 years. He served NSW Cricket as its director for many years. He has been a commissioner of the CRC for the last 2 years. He is the current Chair of the Board for Parramasala festival – Australian Festival of South Asian arts & culture.

I, as a member of Indian Australian community, as well as a member of medical profession in NSW, welcome Dr Harinath’s appointment.

I have no doubt that he will take CRC to newer heights, with his consultative, non-confrontationist, helpful, encouraging and inclusive style of functioning.

With Harry as the Chair of CRC, multiculturalism in NSW is in safer and capable hands!

We look forward to working with him for the interests of our community.

Finally, thanks and congrats are also due to NSW Government -Premier, Mike Baird and Minister for communities, Victor Dominello, for making an outstanding choice for the position of new CRC Chair!

Dr Yadu Singh

September 10, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Politics, political parties and Indian Australian community!

Sydney, 1^st Sept, 2014

There are over 150,000 people of Indian heritage in NSW and 500,000 people Australia wide. Ours is an increasingly important community politically. In Western suburbs of Sydney and Melbourne, there are constituencies, where Indian Australians constitute more than 10% of total votes. Our votes can decide the outcome in many marginal seats.

It is no wonder that political parties are reaching out to Indian Australian community actively. It started with Parliamentary friends of India during previous NSW Govts led by Nathan Rees/Kristina Keneally, followed by Liberal Friends of India formed about one year ago. Similar groupings are in existence federally and Victoria in one or the other form.

While there is no doubt that we are important electorally, the thrust from political parties has been to deal with us only symbolically, not substantially. Except for the recent pre-selection of an Indian Australian in Seven Hills seat, there is no sign of any efforts from any political party to preselect anyone from our community for any of safe seats. If any of us is ever preselected, it is generally for those seats where there is no chance of us winning. ALP’s Harmohan Walia contesting a safe Liberal seat of Mitchell some years ago and inclusion of Bhupinder Chhibber in the Senate list from ALP last year, albeit at a lower and unwinnable spot, are two classical examples. There was no chance of them winning. Similar examples are there from Liberal side too. These are examples of tokenism.

Over the years, our community dynamics have been changing. Indians have been migrating to Australia in big numbers. India has been the top source of migrants over the last few years. Many of us have been joining political parties too, but still not in sufficient numbers.

Prior to 1990s, Indians were big on supporting ALP. Smart marketing and outreach by ALP created an impression that ALP was more favourable and friendly to ethnic migrants. Prime Ministers, Bob Hawke and Paul Keating, were liked by Indians and other ethnic communities. Liberal Party leader, John Howard, before he became the Prime Minister, had the baggage of his comment against Asian migration in 1980s, which created some significant concerns regarding his stand towards ethnic migrants. It lingered on even after he admitted that his statement was a mistake. Unfortunately, this impression became further re-enforced in our minds when we saw the excessively harsh commentary, actions and sanctions by Australia against India after 1998 nuclear tests. Indian army officers were expelled from Australia overnight. The tone and the contents of Foreign Minister Alexander Downer’s statements were particularly terse. It created a serious damage to India-Australia relations. Things changed quite favourably for Liberal party though when PM John Howard declared that Australia would sell Uranium to India in 2007, while ALP persisted with its policy of ban to sell Uranium to India, until Martin Ferguson and PM Gillard led campaign to reverse the ban succeeded at the end of 2012.

Today, there are almost equal supporters in our community for ALP and Liberal Party, although ALP supporters may have an edge. This support has been determined by variety of factors, which did include Uranium issue in the past. With changed dynamics of our community now however, economic management, policy on asylum seekers and business-friendly policies are playing a big role in our attitudes towards political parties. Quite a good number of our people are in small businesses. Younger members of our community are driven more by market economy than socialist ideas. After all, India has been an open and market-based economy since 1991, which has exposed our younger people, before they migrated, to market and open economy.

ALP and our community: There is a significant contingent of ALP supporters in our community, based largely in Western suburbs. They take part in ALP-supporting events through the year and during elections. ALP Premiers used to take some community members with them while taking trade delegations to India, thus giving an impression of inclusion. Subcontinent Friends of Labor was an initiative from NSW ALP HQ, which was provided full support by ALP top leaders to make it known and popular in the community. Grants to various temples and community groups was one of the strategy to win support. This has its advantages and disadvantages. This group is not as strong now as it was during ALP Govts in NSW and Canberra for obvious reasons. Its biggest drawback was its attempts to go against some sub-continental candidates like Susai Benjamin, as part of Right faction Vs Left faction battle. This was seen too during Bill Shorten Vs Anthony Albanese ALP leadership contest last year. This was not smart by any means, because it weakened and divided ALP members from Indian sub-continent significantly. On the positive side, ALP at least in NSW has a better strategy to communicate its stands and policies by emails to not only ALP members, but also other community members who are not ALP members. As Indians constitute a very big proportion of Indian sub-continental people in NSW and since interests of India are quite different from interests of other countries in the Indian sub-continent, it is preferable, in my view, to go for Labor Friend of India. Utopian socialist idea of Indian sub-continental unity or brotherhood is a myth, impractical and is never going to work.

Liberal Party and our Community: Prior to 2011 NSW State elections, then Leader of Opposition, Barry O’Farrell, was seen literally in every community event, but it changed dramatically once Liberal Party formed the Govt. Premier, Barry O’Farrell chose to rely only on one Indian who, in effect, had hardly any networking within the community, and did not help Liberals get many votes. Until election, he was virtually unknown. Indians were perplexed why he was being promoted on behalf of Liberal Govt in NSW. Premier O’Farrell ignored even Australia India Business Council (AIBC) when visiting India with trade delegations. Our community formed a clear and wide-spread perception that Indian community was actively distanced from NSW Govt either as a default or design. It indeed caused a substantial ill-feeling towards Liberal Party and NSW Govt. This was conveyed to local MPs, but they were either unwilling or, more likely, unable to do anything about it due to the fact that everything was driven from the former Premier’s office. Current Premier, Mike Baird, is much more inclusive, which is a welcome change and is already generating some goodwill. A lot more however needs to be done to overcome the damage. Time only will tell whether there is a real directional change under current Premier. Liberal Friends of India (LFI) is a good initiative but it has lost its charm or the enthusiasm lately. It needs to be reinvigorated. There was a time when we saw one more body of the similar type with the name of “Liberal friends of the subcontinent” doing some events in Western Sydney. This created some considerable confusion. I am not sure what is IRS status now. LFI also needs participation from top ministers and must allow membership of even those community members who are Liberal-minded but are not members of Liberal party. It should not just be a mechanism to raise funds for the party. Its Chairman should be a key Minister with Executive Committee comprising of key Liberal-inclined community members, irrespective of their Liberal Party membership status. LFI needs to be reformed and relaunched.

Parramasala, an initiative of Keneally NSW Labor Govt, is indeed a good idea, and I am happy to see that current Liberal NSW Govt has decided to continue funding it. I went to its launch only a few days ago, and noticed things which could have been done better. Ministerial Consultative Committee (MCC) for Indian community has been dissolved, like other MCCs, but there is a need to have some form of Advisory Body from our community for regular consultations, discussions and interactions between our community and the Govt.

NSW Friends of India: Like USA and some European countries, there is a need for such groups in Australia. It should be a bipartisan phenomenon, with key ministers, MPs, journalists, businesses and community members, with year-round activities involving lectures, debates and discussions. A group like this may not get enthusiastic support from the Govt, but we, as the community, should push for it. After all, there are bonafide pro-India people in all political parties, businesses and media.

Our community’s participation: It is also true that many of us do not join political parties in sufficient numbers. This should change. Australia is our country too, and we ought to take part in its processes in all shapes and forms. We get a chance to do so pretty actively if we are part of political parties. Only then, we will be able to go for pre-selections and elections to reach Parliaments. After all, quota system is not a good idea generally, and it is better to compete fairly and frankly. If we are not inclined to join main political parties, we can consider forming or being a part of issues-based groups like “Voice of the West” focusing on Western suburbs to advance our political interests and ideas.

While at it, it will not be out of place to point out that we need to interact, collaborate and network with members irrespective of their party or political affiliations and inclinations, when it comes to our common interests for the community. Just because someone is a member of ALP or Liberal party does not mean he or she is an enemy for those who are in opposing camps. There is no need or justification to badmouth or run an undermining campaign only because of someone’s political affiliation or inclination.

An edited version of my write-up was published by The Indian Sun newspaper recently. (http://www.theindiansun.com.au/top-story/australian-political-parties-indian-community/)

Dr Yadu Singh

September 2, 2014 by Yadu Singh

3rd September is Australian flag day!

Sydney, 2nd Sept, 2014

3rd September is Australian Flag day.

A brief history is as follows.

Australian Flag was selected after an international competition in which 32823 people participated. 5 people, 2 of them teenagers, were the co-winners of this competition and shared the prize of £200. It was first flown at the Exhibition Building, the site of Commonwealth Parliament in Melbourne at that time, by the first Prime Minister of Australia, The Rt Hon Sir Edmund Barton, on 3rd Sept, 1901. As you know, Australia has been a federation since 1901.

Australian flag has the Union Jack, the Commonwealth Star (just below the Union jack, representing Federation of 6 States and territories) and the Southern Cross (representing our geography). Constellation of 5 stars (Southern Cross) can only be seen from Southern Hemisphere.

A few points to be noted.

1. The Flag should be raised after Sunrise and lowered before Sunset. The Flag can be flown in the night if there is sufficient illumination, like it is in Federal Parliament in Canberra.

2. When the Flag is raised or lowered, everyone should face the Flag, be silent and people in Uniform should salute the Flag.

3. The flag should always be flown freely and as close as possible to the top of the flagpole with the rope tightly secured.

4. Unless all national flags are raised and lowered simultaneously, the Australian National Flag should be raised first and lowered last

5. When the Australian National Flag is flown with flags of other nations, all flags should be the same size and flown on flagpoles of the same height

6. When flying with only one other national flag, the Australian National Flag should fly on the left of a person facing the flags.

7. The flag should not be flown upside down.

8.The Australian National Flag should not normally be flown in aposition inferior to any other flag or ensign and should not be smaller than any other flag or ensign.

9. The flag should be used in a dignified manner and reproduced completely and accurately.

10. It should not be defaced by overprinting with words or illustrations.

11. Other objects in displays should not cover the flag.

12. All symbolic parts of the flag should be identifiable.

I am celebrating Australian Flag Day on 3rd September, 2014 by making Australian Flag as my profile pic in my social media for the day. I encourage everyone to do the likewise.

Dr Yadu Singh

https://yadusingh.wordpress.com/2013/05/04/india-house-in-sydney-what-is-this-about-why-do-we-need-it/

August 31, 2014 by Yadu Singh

India House in Sydney: an update!

Sydney, 31st Aug, 2014

I wrote a post on India House last year. Link is here.

We had several meetings with well-meaning people. We were on to it.

After this, literally every Indian community association in Sydney started to announce that they too want to build an “India House”, but without any attempt to network with others. This “Me too” disease is very prevalent with associations and “Community Leaders”.

One of such associations is the one which collected money for “India House” during one of its major events a few years ago. There is unfortunately no record or details of this money anymore. They have mismanaged their funds, thus having a massive hit in their reputation in our community. Community knows about it and has nothing but disdain for them.

Another one is the one which gave “Role model of the community” medals to those who deserved shunning, not medals. People wonder about ethos and principles guiding this association. Everything seems to be Naqli (Fake) there.

There are others too, who claim to be an Umbrella body but without any group with them, justifying their claim of being an “Umbrella” association.

Any smart person should always analyse and review the current circumstances, while keeping the past examples and factors in mind.

It is clear to me that the best option for us is to take a back seat and let others, who have put their claims to build “India House” out in public, take the responsibility and leadership for this matter. There is an undeniable fact that there can’t, and will not, be multiple India Houses in Sydney.

As far as I am concerned, I am getting out from my plans for “India House” in Sydney. I hope others will do what needs to be done and what they have claimed. I will support them with whatever I can do, when they indeed do something in this regard. I know for sure that our community will need to take a structured, co-ordinated and unified approach to deliver this project. We can not have multiple groups trying (or at least claiming) to work on this project.

I understand that “India House” will be one of the topics which will be discussed in a meeting of some “select” Indian community members, organised at the Indian Consulate General in Sydney next week. I am one of the invitees to this meeting. I will post an update on this and any other relevant topic.

Dr Yadu Singh

August 21, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Australia concludes Nuclear trade deal with India!

Sydney, 21st Aug, 2014

From various news sources, it is clear that Australia has concluded Civil nuclear deal with India recently. Uranium trade between Australia and India is likely to start soon. It appears that the deal has been concluded relatively quickly after India elected its new Govt led by Mr Narendra Modi. The agreement is likely to be signed by India and Australia during Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s visit to India in the first week of September.

Let me also point out that it was Prime Minister John Howard who announced in 2007 that Australian Govt will reverse the ban to sell Uranium to India. It changed when Kevin Rudd became the Prime Minister a few months later and reversed it. Finally, Prime Minister Julia Gillard was the one who campaigned successfully to get ALP reverse its policy to ban Uranium sale to India in Dec 2011, followed by an agreement between Australia and India to start the negotiations on the nitty gritty of the supply agreement in 2012.

I wrote about this matter a few years ago. http://tinyurl.com/7bytnbo & http://tinyurl.com/6s7d7dx

Australia-India relations are on an upswing, after having suffered a few years ago.

I and many from Indian Australian Community are very happy with the improved Australia-India relations.

Congratulations are due to Australian Govt led by Mr Tony Abbott and Indian Govt led by Mr Narendra Modi. Foreign Minister of Australia, Julie Bishop, and Indian Foreign Affairs Minister, Smt Sushma Swaraj, have also played a big role.

India is currently third in the list of countries which use nuclear energy. There are 21 nuclear reactors in India which are producing electricity but India needs to increase such electricity production, knowing electricity shortage. Currently, nuclear energy constitutes only 4% of total electricity production.

Australia has 1/3rd of the total Uranium of the world. This agreement is going to make Uranium supply to India much easier.

As usual, and in a totally predictable manner, Greens Senator, Scott Ludlam, did not like it at all, and used some arguments, which are irrelevant and dated. NPT issue is not relevant in India’s case after India was given an exemption by Nuclear Suppliers’ Group (NSG) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2008. Also, unlike India’s neighbours, India has never been involved in nuclear proliferation.

India is going through the discussions for Civil nuclear trade with Japan currently. Once concluded, India should be able to accelerate nuclear energy production.

Since 2005 onwards, India has already entered into civil nuclear agreements with the US, Mangolia, Namibia, Argentina, the UK, Canada, Kazakhstan and South Korea, France and Russia.

Indian Australian community has a desire to see speedy growth in Australia India relations in all dimensions and aspects.

Dr Yadu Singh

http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/2246552/dr-yadu-singh-why-section-18c-of-racial-discrimination-act-should-not-be-repealed/

August 5, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Plans to repeal Section 18C of Racial Discrimination Act dumped!

Prime Minister, Tony Abbott, announced today that he has dumped plans to repeal Section 18C of Racial Discrimination Act.

He said that he wants to work with communities as part of “Team Australia”.

This is very sensible and very welcome!

Of the 4100 submissions in regards to Sec 18C, 76% were against the repeal or any tempering of Section 18C.

Ethnic communities were overwhelmingly against the repeal. These included Chinese, Arabic, Jewish, Indians and many others.

ALP leaders, especially NSW Leader of Opposition, John Robertson, and most Liberal Party leaders, especially Premiers of NSW (Mike Baird) and Victoria (Denis Napthine), Craig Lundy (Reid MP), Matt Kean (Hornsby MP), Geoff Lee (Parramatta MP) and Alex Hawke (Mitchell MP) were opposed to the proposal to repeal Sec 18C.

NSW Community Relations Commission (CRC) too took a stand against this repeal proposal. CRC chief, Vic Alhadeff, took a prominent leadership role in opposing this repeal proposal.

From our side, my friends and I ran a campaign via Social media and Blog post.

My post (http://tinyurl.com/pqfv8ct) was forwarded to more than 15000 people of Indian Australian Community, with overwhelming support to oppose the repeal. I encouraged my fellow community members to forward the Blog post to their network and send their submissions to the Attorney General, Senator George Brandis.

My Blog post was also published in many Australian newspapers. Hills News, Penrith City Gazette and Blacktown Sun were the most prominent among them.

http://www.theindiantelegraph.com.au/the-growing-presence-of-a-leader-dr-yadu-singh-takes-the-fight-where-it-matters/

http://www.veooz.com/news/2H8dFMX.html

http://www.penrithcitygazette.com.au/story/2246552/dr-yadu-singh-why-section-18c-of-racial-discrimination-act-should-not-be-repealed/

http://www.blacktownsun.com.au/story/2246552/dr-yadu-singh-why-section-18c-of-racial-discrimination-act-should-not-be-repealed/

I am pleased that repeal proposal has been dumped.

Prime Minister deserves a thank you and people who campaigned against the repeal deserve a special “thank you and well done”.

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/5th Aug, 2014

in favour

June 20, 2014 by Yadu Singh

The time for Hindi as the true national (Link) language in India has come!

India has many states and many languages. Some states were formed on the basis of the language. It has its positives and it also has its negatives. It is not uncommon to experience difficulties in communicating things when visiting interiors of various states. While English often acts like a link language, but this is mostly confined to cities and bigger towns. A person from typical North Indian interior will struggle to communicate inside the interior of South India and vice versa.

I believe India needs a language which can act as a true Link language or National language, which can facilitate communications among Indians throughout the country

English can not be this language, even though it is an important language. It is mostly confined in the cities and bigger towns of India, where many can use it. Approx. only 10% are able to do it.

Hindi, on the other hand is the language spoken by 45% and understood by many more. Bollywood movies have been a great help in making Hindi understood everywhere in India.

Today, it will be impossible for any other Indian language to match Hindi’s reach and popularity in India. Saying this should not mean that we are recommending disrespect to other languages or undermining them. It is a practical matter, and should be taken as such.

I love all Indian languages as well as English, which, of course is the language of science, Medicine, international trade, business and diplomacy. English is a must for Indians. I have no doubt about it.

There has to be ONE language in India, which should be able to act as the true LINK language for communication among all and sundry in India. That language will be HINDI if we analyse this matter rationally and logically.

I have not read views of any other person on this matter. My thought process here is not influenced by any other.

In my view, India should adopt and implement “Three Language Formula”, which means;

1. everyone learns Hindi, English and their mother tongue/language of their state,

2. everyone in Hindi speaking North India learns Hindi, English and one language from South India.

I believe it will promote integration, understanding and communication. It may also promote intra-national trade and business.

It is not at all about imposing hegemony of Hindi language, but it is all about pragmatism and practical need of a language which can be an instrument to improve communication among Indians in the country.

This will also be a “Win Win” decision for India, Hindi and South Indian languages!

I hope the new HRD Minister, Ms Smriti Irani and Prime Minister, Sri Narendra Modi do something in this direction.

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/20th June, 2014

June 13, 2014 by Yadu Singh

What Indians in Australia expect from the Modi Govt

The new government should be proactive in considering the interests and welfare of the Indian community down under.

It is not a hyperbole to say that a new era has dawned in India with the swearing-in of the Modi Government on Monday, 26 May, 2014.

A decisive, “can do” leader, Sri Narendra Modi, is the Prime Minister. Indians, not just in India but around the world, are confident that things will change for the better and the Indian economy will grow rapidly.

People have expectations from the new government. While people have a wide variety of expectations, which they want the Modi Govt to deliver, there are some common themes in their expectations. Based on my interactions with many Indians in Australia, and based on my own thinking, there are a few things that people expect the new government to consider.

Prime Minister’s visit to Australia: There has not been any state visit by an Indian PM to Australia after the late Shri Rajiv Gandhi’s visit in 1980s. PM Modi should accept the invitation from Australia to schedule a state visit to Australia this year itself. Several Australian PMs have already visited India, but a reciprocal visit by an Indian PM is yet to happen. There should be time for the PM to interact with the community in at least one, but preferably two, major cities. The G20 summit is scheduled to happen in Brisbane on November 15 and 16, 2014. This will be a perfect opportunity for the Indian PM’s long overdue official visit to Australia too.

Visa on arrival for Australian citizens: Australian citizens, like many others including New Zealanders, should get the same visa-free arrival facilities in India. If this is not the case at present, it should be implemented without further delay.

Black money in overseas banks: Genuine, proactive and effective steps should be taken to tackle this menace and bring the money back to India within 12 months. No favour should be given to anyone irrespective of who they are or what connections they have. The decision to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for this purpose is good.

Effective anti-corruption body: A group of 10-15 people from civil society including judges, eminent jurists and overseas Indians (if possible) should be asked to review the Lok Pal Act, passed by the Lok Sabha earlier in the year, and suggest steps to rectify weakness to make it an effective corruption fighting body. This should be completed in the next 12 months.

The PM’s global Overseas Indians Advisory body: The PM should revamp his Global Advisory Body, constituted by the previous PM. People in it should be those who have significant presence and influence in their countries. The habit of Indian diplomats recommending non-descript and non-influential people for this body should eliminated.

Country specific Overseas Indian Advisory body: Countries with significant overseas Indian population (Australia is certainly one such country) should have an advisory body of not more than 10 people, which can be used for consultations and other advisory purposes, not only by the local GOI authorities/agencies, but also the relevant authorities/agencies in India.

Annual dialogue between Indian and Australian leaders: PMs, Foreign Affairs Ministers and Defence Ministers should hold annual meeting/dialogue, with venues for such meeting/dialogue alternating between India and Australia.

Free Trade Agreement (FTA): The pace of the discussions and negotiations should be accelerated so that FTA can be concluded by the end of 2015.

Bilateral Nuclear Trade negotiations: The pace of the discussions and negotiations should be accelerated with the goal to conclude it by the 30 June, 2015.

Hindi teachings in Australian Universities: To increase India’s soft power and increase the numbers of India-literate Australians, India should consider funding such teaching courses in some select Universities in Australia.

India House or Indian Cultural Centre in major capital cities: The Indian community has grown significantly in Australia. It is increasingly felt that such centres are required, at least in Sydney and Melbourne. While some funding will be raised locally, a significant part of the funds should come from Indian Govt. Govt of India (GOI) Funds, if any, allocated for something of this nature to be established in the Indian Consulate premises in Sydney CBD should be reviewed and re-allocated for a centre of this nature in areas like Parramatta or Blacktown, where the Indian community has a substantial presence. Sydney CBD is not a practical or appropriate site for an Indian Cultural Centre.

Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs visit to Australia: With approx. 500,000 people of Indian heritage in Australia, a biennial visit of Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs (The Hon Sushma Swaraj) or her deputy, The Hon Gen (Retd) V K Singh, should be included in the official GOI travel calendar. This will help facilitate interactions with the community and facilitate Overseas Indians’ investment in India.

This is our wish list, which we believe is doable, not difficult and will provide multiple benefits to various stake-holders, including India.

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/13th June, 2014

=======================================================================================================

This was originally published in Indian Sun News magazine, Sydney on 10th June, 2014. http://www.theindiansun.com.au/top-story/indians-australia-expect-modi-govt/

=======================================================================================================

June 4, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Blacktown City Festival parade was big, vibrant and multicultural!

I participated in Blacktown City Parade on Saturday, 31st May, 2014. I met hundreds of my friends from various segments of Western Sydney in the festival.

It was a great fun.

More than 50,000 people were there either in the parade or as spectators.

Parade was the culmination of Blacktown City Festival which ran from 24th May to 31st May, 2014. I understand that approx. 150,000 people took part in this week-long festival.

Blacktown Mayor, Clr Len Robinson, other Councillors, Local Politicians and X-Factor finalist, Taylor Henderson were there too. Taylor sang too, which people enjoyed.

It was big, vibrant and very multicultural.

Of 72 Floats which participated, there were floats from Australian Sikh Association, Ahmediya Group, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu groups. Local Radio station, Dance schools and others were there too.

From the expressions on the faces of people, it was clear that people enjoyed the show greatly. I certainly did, and I am glad I took part in it.

In addition to enjoying a multicultural gathering in the heart of Western Sydney, I and others had the added benefit of physical exercise, with obvious health benefits, too.

I encourage Indian and South Asian communities as well as community associations/groups to take part in events of this nature with bigger numbers and more vigour next year.

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/4th June, 2014

http://www.faceboo.com/dryadusingh

May 16, 2014 by Yadu Singh

With BJP/NDA Govt led by Narendra Modi, a new era dawns in India!

Sydney, 16th May, 2014.

Indian elections were a mammoth exercise, going for around 2 months. There were 930,000 polling booths, using 1.7 million voting machines for >500 million voters. These are precisely the factors why India is the largest democracy of the world.

Indian channels and newspapers were beaming the results of Indian elections on 16th May, 2014. With the trends available at 3PM Sydney time, it was clear that National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will form the next Govt. Mr Narendra Modi of Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), the biggest constituent of NDA, was going to be India’s next Prime Minister.

It became clear that NDA will have more than 300 MPs and BJP itself will have 272+ MPs. Congress-led UPA Govt seems to have been routed in a landslide victory for BJP/NDA.

At the end of counting of votes, BJP scored 284 seats (MPs) in Lower House of Parliament (Lok Sabha) and NDA scored 336 of the total 543 MPs. Congress was limited to only 44 MPs and much-hyped Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) could get only 4 MPs, despite the pre-polling claim of >100 AAP MPs.

BJP has managed a majority for itself. It is for the first time in the last 30 years when a political party has managed a majority for itself. It is not a mean feat!

This is a spectacular result from all parameters, and credits for this go to Mr Modi and his team. He ravelled extensively all over India, holding rallies, road-shows, Chai Pe Charcha (Tea Parties), and reaching out to people extensively via regular media and social media. Friends and supporters of BJP overseas too took part in political discourses, usually via social media, creating pro-BJP atmosphere in their circles back in India.

Despite the denials by political adversaries of BJP and Modi, there is no denying that there was a Modi “Lehar” (Wave). Scams after scams during the term of United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Govt led by Dr Manmohan Singh created a massive aversion to Congress-led Govt in the minds of people. They have had enough.

India will now have a stable Govt. This is good for India’s economic growth and development, and Governance. It is also good for India’s international affairs. Trade and investment from all over the world will increase. This will be a great outcome.

Indians all over the world will rejoice with the result of Indian election because they are sick and tired of;

vote bank politics
caste-based politics
pseudo-secularism
religion-based politics
region-based politics
corruption
Poor governance
policy paralysis
stagnation in the economy
poor management of foreign affairs
poor management of India’s borders
dynasty-based politics

Indians deserve better. They do not need to be divided based on their caste or religions. They do not want to be “used” by politicians as “vote-banks”. Indians are all Indians, with no superior or inferior claim on their Indian-ness or rights for economic growth and development.

Indians are truly sick and tired of “He is communal and I am secular” commentary by politicians for vested interest. Enough of this nonsense!

We have a leader in Mr Narendra Modi, who is focused on economic growth and development, good governance and has pan-India appeal.

He is decisive, determined and experienced, beside being assertive and eager.

He is able and capable to implement “Eik Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” (One India, Better India), following “Development for all, appeasement for none”, because all Indians have equal claim on India and have equal right for development, without any consideration for their caste, religion or regional background.

A new era is going to dawn with the outcome of the Indian election and with Mr Modi as India’s new Prime Minister!

Congrats to Indians! Congrats to BJP and NDA! Congrats to Mr Narendra Modi!

Overseas Indians all over the world, just like Indians in India, burst into a joyous mood on 16th May, throwing celebratory parties wherever they were living. Australia was no exception, where several celebratory parties were organised by Indian Australians all over Australia.

Dr Yadu Singh/16th May, 2014

dryadusingh@gmail.com

http://www.twitter.com/dryadsingh

May 13, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Great to have attended celebration of 66th Independence Day of Israel in Sydney!

Israel’s Independence Day Celebrations in Sydney have always been one of the key events of this city.

This year’s celebration on Monday, 12th May 2014 evening at Four Seasons Hotel was no exception, and in fact, was even bigger and better.

NSW Premier Mike Baird delivered the keynote address as 500 people – diplomats, politicians and community, faith and business leaders – gathered to mark the 66^th anniversary of Israel’s Independence Day. The event was hosted jointly by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, Zionist Council of NSW, Executive Council of Australian Jewry and Zionist Federation of Australia. The event was also addressed by Israeli Ambassador, His Excellency Shmuel Ben-Shmuel and Board of Deputies president Yair Miller.

A toast was raised to mark the 66th Independence Day of Israel.

Israel’s Independence Day is the celebration of the anniversary of the day on which Israel independence was proclaimed by Mr David Ben-Gurion, who read the Israeli Declaration of Independence on 14 May 1948.

In a very Israeli welcoming style, key leaders of the hosting bodies welcomed each and every guest entering the venue. Guests enjoyed the celebration with drinks and traditional Israeli food.

Key political leaders included Mike Baird (Premier of NSW), Victor Dominello (Minister for Communities & Citizenship), John Robertson (Leader of Opposition), David Clarke (Parliamentary Secretary), David Elliott (Parliamentary Secretary), Matt Kean (Parliamentary Secretary) and Paul Fletcher (Federal Parliamentary Secretary).

Other notable people attending the celebration included Vic Alhdeff (Chairman, Community Relations Commission), Stepan Kerkyasharian (President of the Anti-Discrimination Board), Dr Tim Soutphommasane (Race Discrimination Commissioner,) and Tim Wilson (Human Rights Commissioner).

Key community leaders included myself (Dr Yadu Singh, President of Indian Australian Association of NSW), Ahmet Keskin (Affinity Intercultural Foundation) and David Ossip (Hornsby Councillor), in addition to many other key people representing various faiths and ethnic backgrounds.

More than 30 Diplomatic representatives were present too, along with media and business leaders.

Israel is a successful and thriving democracy in Middle East. Despite its difficult, and at times violent, neighbourhood, it has achieved success in many fronts. It wishes and strives for peace in the region under the principle of “Two States Solution” and Co-existence.

People in Israel celebrated their nation’s 66th year by heading out to the national parks, watching IAF flyover, visiting army bases and watching the International Bible Contest on Tuesday, 6th May, 2014.

Happy 66th Independence Day to Citizens of Israel, people of Jewish ancestry in Australia and all over the world, and friends of Israel!

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/12th May, 2014

(http://www.attorneygeneral.gov.au/Mediareleases/Pages/2014/First%20Quarter/25March2014-RacialDiscriminationAct.aspx)

April 27, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Why Section 18C of Racial Discrimination Act should not be repealed

Racial discrimination Act 1975, section 18C is in news, and is creating quite a bit of debate, discussion and disquiet in Australia.

It has become quite intense ever since Federal Attorney General, Senator George Brandis, said in the Senate recently that “People do have a right to be bigots, you know,” and “People have the right to say things that other people would find insulting, offensive or bigoted.”

I find these statements troubling. I do not agree with them.

Let us see what exactly is section 18C and what is exempted from 18C (Section 18D).

RACIAL DISCRIMINATION ACT 1975 – SECT 18C:
Offensive behaviour because of race, colour or national or ethnic origin:

(1) It is unlawful for a person to do an act, otherwise than in private, if:

(a) the act is reasonably likely, in all the circumstances, to offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate another person or a group of people; and

(b) the act is done because of the race, colour or national or ethnic origin of the other person or of some or all of the people in the group.
(2) For the purposes of subsection (1), an act is taken not to be done in private if it:
(a) causes words, sounds, images or writing to be communicated to the public; or
(b) is done in a public place; or
(c) is done in the sight or hearing of people who are in a public place.
(3) In this section:
“Public place” includes any place to which the public have access as of right or by invitation, whether express or implied and whether or not a charge is made for admission to the place.

RACIAL DISCRIMINATION ACT 1975 – SECT 18D:
Exemptions: Section 18C does not render unlawful anything said or done reasonably and in good faith:

(a) in the performance, exhibition or distribution of an artistic work; or
(b) in the course of any statement, publication, discussion or debate made or held for any genuine academic, artistic or scientific purpose or any other genuine purpose in the public interest; or
(c) in making or publishing:
(i) a fair and accurate report of any event or matter of public interest; or
(ii) a fair comment on any event or matter of public interest if the comment is an expression of a genuine belief held by the person making the comment.
—————————————————————————————————-
In summary, Section 18C of the Act makes it unlawful for anyone to do an act that is reasonably likely to “offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate” anyone because of their race or ethnicity. Section 18D of the Act outlines exemptions with the purpose of protecting freedom of speech. Thus, artistic works, scientific debate and fair comment on matters of public interest are exempt from section 18C, provided they are reasonable and are in good faith.
———————————————————————————————————-
Background of Racial Discrimination Act:
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) are two very important international agreements for the human race. Australia is a signatory to them, and thus has obligations to implement protections against racial hatred.

Furthermore, National Inquiry into Racist Violence and the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody established the linkage between racial hatred and vilification and emotional and psychological harm. It was also found that such abuse reinforces other forms of discrimination and exclusion. The enquiry found that even low-level behaviour of this type can create the environment for more severe acts of harassment, intimidation or violence by impliedly condoning such acts.

Taking all these into consideration, Australian Law Reform Commission published its 1992 report, Multiculturalism and the Law, which recommended the introduction of legislation to deal with racial hatred.
Sections 18C and 18D were therefore introduced in 1995 in response to recommendations of major inquiries, and for the right reasons.

Freedom of speech Vs freedom from racial vilification:
Freedom of speech is important in a free society, but it must also be emphasized that people have a right to have freedom from racial vilification too.

Freedom of speech can, and is, never an absolute right. Laws applying to defamation, advertising and national security do restrict the right of freedom of speech.

Australian courts have repeatedly held that for conduct to be covered by section 18C, the conduct must involve “profound and serious” effects, not “mere slights”. They have also found 18C to be an appropriate measure to implement Australia’s obligations to prohibit racial hatred under the ICCPR and ICERD.

Having said that, Andrew Bolt, a right wing Journalist, was found to have breached Section 18C in regards to Fair-skinned aborigines. It led to statements from Coalition leaders, promising before the 2013 Federal election to repeal section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act ”in its current form”.

Senator Brandis has said recently that “Never again in Australia will we have a situation in which a person may be taken to court for expressing a political opinion.”

Senator Brandis told the Senate recently that “he would soon be bringing forward an amendment that would ensure The Andrew Bolt case would never be repeated.”

Here is the Exposure Draft from Attorney General, Senator George Brandis, which is open to comment from the Public until 30 April 2014 at s18cconsultation@ag.gov.au

———————————————————————————————–
Exposure Draft

Freedom of speech (Repeal of S. 18C) Bill 2014
The Racial Discrimination Act 1975 is amended as follows:
1. Section 18C is repealed.
2. Sections 18B, 18D and 18E are also repealed.
3. The following section is inserted:

1. “ It is unlawful for a person to do an act, otherwise than in private, if:
a. the act is reasonably likely:
i. to vilify another person or a group of persons; or
ii. to intimidate another person or a group of persons,
and
b. the act is done because of the race, colour or national or ethnic origin of that person or that group of persons.
2. For the purposes of this section:
a. vilify means to incite hatred against a person or a group of persons;
b. intimidate means to cause fear of physical harm:
1. to a person; or
2. to the property of a person; or
3. to the members of a group of persons.
4. Whether an act is reasonably likely to have the effect specified in sub-section (1)(a) is to be determined by the standards of an ordinary reasonable member of the Australian community, not by the standards of any particular group within the Australian community
5. This section does not apply to words, sounds, images or writing spoken, broadcast, published or otherwise communicated in the course of participating in the public discussion of any political, social, cultural, religious, artistic, academic or scientific matter.”
—————————————————————————————————-
You need to read the Exposure Draft (above) very carefully.
(http://www.attorneygeneral.gov.au/Mediareleases/Pages/2014/First%20Quarter/25March2014-RacialDiscriminationAct.aspx)

Three points are very disturbing.
1. This proposed legislation really would allow for almost any racist speech you can imagine. Any “public discussion of any political, social, cultural (or) religious, artistic, academic or scientific” matter will be exempt, irrespective of its seriousness and intentions. Basically, every racial abuse can be exempt under the proposed legislation. There is no limit here.

2. Whether something is “reasonably likely” to vilify is “to be determined by the standards of an ordinary reasonable member of the Australian community”, “not by the standards of any particular group within the Australian community.” That means that the vilification will not be judged by the standard of whatever racial minority is being vilified. Instead, the ordinary reasonable Australian, meaning thereby White Anglo-Saxon Australians, will decide whether the minority groups are racially vilified or not.

If we have to trust “Ordinary reasonable Australians” to decide what we should think or find racially vilifying, we may end up in serious troubles. You do not have to go too far. Just go to the comments column of any newspaper to have the taste of what some of the “Ordinary reasonable Australians” think about minorities. You will find that plenty of members of “ordinary reasonable Australians” are good at telling people from minority racial groups what they should and shouldn’t find racist, without having an idea of what is right or wrong in racial vilification sense.

3. There is more. This is in regards to the proposed offence of racial “intimidation”. To “intimidate” is “to cause fear of physical harm” according to the Exposure draft. Who decides whether a member of a minority racial group should have a “reasonably likely” chance of feeling “fear of physical harm?” Obviously, that too will be decided for them by someone else, not themselves. That is plainly unacceptable, grotesque and wrong.

Australia is a success story of multiculturalism, where almost half the population was either born overseas or has a parent who was born overseas.

This is in danger, if section 18C and 18D are tampered with, repealed or diluted.

With any change with 18C and 18D, the clear line between legitimate public debate and hate speech will be removed. “Anything goes’ will become the law.

We need the protection from Hate speech and racial vilification because not everyone is in a position of parity to speak back to those who denigrate them on racial grounds. Not everyone is Adam Goodes, Ben Barba and Ali Abbas, who can stand up for themselves, when racially attacked or vilified.

It is important that the average person had a way of holding others accountable for racial abuse and harassment.

I do not believe that the Federal Court’s ruling in the case involving Andrew Bolt in 2011 (which was never challenged by appeal) provides sufficient cause for dismantling part of our system and laws of racial tolerance and harmony.

We need to promote civility and tolerance, not bigotry, racism, racial abuse, racial vilification and racial intimidation. If Section 18C and 18D are repealed, tampered with or diluted, this is exactly what is going to happen.

I therefore, like a vast majority of people (as per a recent poll on this matter), do not want Section 18C repealed, tampered with or diluted!

I have had a discussion with many from various communities including Indian Australians, and know for sure that they too are opposed to the proposed repeal of Section 18C.

I have sent my submission to s18cconsultation@ag.gov.au. I urge you to do the same by 30th April 2014.

You could do so just by saying “I am opposed to the proposed repeal of Section 18C of Racial Discrimination Act”!

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/27th April, 2014
dryadusingh@gmail.com
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http://www.facebook.com/dryadusingh
au.linkedin.com/in/dryadusingh

April 23, 2014 by Yadu Singh

Proud and privileged to be in the list of “Goldmine” leaders from the Western Sydney!

The Daily Telegraph Newspaper published a list of key people from Western Sydney, calling them “Goldmine” leaders!

I feel proud and privileged to be included in this list!

I must admit that it was a humbling experience to see my name in this list of great people.

Here is the article from The Daily Telegraph newspaper! http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/competitions/fair-go-for-the-west-meet-the-goldmine-leaders/story-fngy6zqs-1226881501042

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Fair Go for the West: Meet the goldmine leaders!

by: John Lehmann Editor at Large
From: The Daily Telegraph
April 11, 2014 1:17PM

Sydney’s West is a goldmine of single-minded leaders who would rather make a difference than make excuses.

Whether it be building some of Australia’s most successful businesses, mentoring new arrivals to the West, leading sports teams worth cheering for or simply breeding the best darn chickens you’ll taste, they are making Sydney a better place.

Paul Lederer

Paul Lederer runs Primo Smallgoods at Chullora. Source: News Limited

The Primo Group chief executive has transformed a Hungarian family tradition of smoking meats into a $1.4 billion international enterprise run from Chullora with 4000 employees.

Estimated to hold a personal fortune of $630 million, he will indulge his passion for soccer when he takes control of the Western Wanderers from July 1, leading a new ownership team including Pirtek founder Peter Duncan and Filipino-Chinese businessman Jefferson Cheng.

Katie Page and Gerry Harvey,

Harvey Norman chief executive and chairman

This dynamic duo have been working and playing hard in Western Sydney since Harvey Norman opened its Auburn store in 1982.

The Harvey Norman business, of which Harvey is chairman and Page CEO, now has eight stores in the West, employing more than 1400 locals.

Harvey, who went to high school in Katoomba, is also Australia’s biggest horse breeder, while Page’s passions include the West’s exotic food and restaurant scene. They live in the northwest.

Harvey Norman chairman Gerry Harvey with managing director and wife Katie Page. Source: News Limited

Jihad Dib

For eight years, the Punchbowl Boys High School principal has been inspiring his students to lift their sights.

The results are easy to see. The school where drug gangs once ruled and barbed wire topped the fences now wins educational awards.

While only a handful of year 12 boys once thought about going to university each year, now about a third of the class go on and many more do vocational training.

Dib was able to joke recently that the school may be getting too soft when a fight broke out over hand cream.

Jihad Dib with students out the front of Punchbowl Boys High School Source: News Limited

Raelene Castle

Since becoming the first female to lead an NRL club eight months ago, Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs CEO has won respect as a no-nonsense operator focused on instilling an honest, hardworking culture.

As she builds the Bulldogs’ appeal to the families and businesses of the West, she has shown a strict attitude to player behaviour and doesn’t tolerate fools — as Cronulla’s Andrew Fifita recently discovered when Canterbury terminated his $3.5 million deal after some ill-chosen comments.

New Canterbury Bulldogs CEO Raelene Castle pictured at Bemore Oval. Source: News Limited

Nick Moraitis has built a huge fresh produce business in the west. Source: News Limited

Cate Sydes, Marist Youth Care CEO. Source: News Limited

Nick Moraitis

The Moraitis Group founder has worked in the West for 60 years, building a multifaceted food empire with revenues pushing $1 billion.

Through his partnership with fellow western tycoon Paul Lederer, he recently joined forces with Hungry Jacks’ founder Jack Cowin to produce salads and fresh soups for major retailers.

“The West is full of talented people but we need more businesses based here and more jobs,’’ said Moraitis, 79, who owned champion thoroughbred Might and Power.

Cate Sydes

The Marist Youth Care CEO is Western Sydney’s Good Samaritan, having worked with those on Struggle St since helping Aboriginal children in Mount Druitt 30 years ago.

Based at Blacktown, she leads one of Australia’s largest service providers for youth at risk.

“I’ve always been drawn to kids and young people in need,” says Sydes, who lost both of her parents while still in her teens. “My dream is that one day I’ll be out of work.’’

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Tony Shepherd

From advising the PM on how to get our national finances under control to building Western Sydney freeways and a new sports franchise, the diminutive Greater Western Sydney Giants chairman is a serious power player.

As the outgoing Business Council of Australia president and former chairman of construction giant Transfield Services, he has a contact book than sprawls from west to east, as evidenced by his recent appointment as chair of the SCG Trust.

Jim Marsden

Described by “Mr Olympics” Rod McGeoch as the “smartest man in the west”, the Marsdens Law Group senior partner has been at the centre of Campbelltown life since growing up in the local pub.

Whether it be handling the legal affairs of the region’s business elite or personally lobbying NRL chief Dave Smith to settle a team (ie his beloved Wests Tigers) in Campbelltown, Marsden is a passionate advocate of the southwest, where he has raised his four children.

He still gets a chuckle out of his late brother John Marsden’s famous quip: “There are two great cities in the world — Rome and Campbelltown.’’

Louise Cordina

The Cordina family have been feeding Australia “cage-free” chicken since pioneering the concept in the 1950s.

The 34-year-old is the first fourth-generation member of the Cordinas to help lead the family’s famous business with her father John. It is now one of the top 100 family-owned firms in the nation.

She grew up next door to the family’s Girraween factory and adopts a typically unpretentious Western Sydney style, saying: “We have never had aspirations to be out there being the biggest.’’

John and Louise Cordina. Source: News Limited

Lyall Gorman

The Wanderers chairman tapped into Western Sydney’s passion and energy to create the A-League soccer franchise.

Gorman, highly rated by soccer supremo Frank Lowy, leads a board which includes distinguished Australian-Chinese businessman Benjamin Chow and influential Aboriginal leader Warren Mundine.

“One of our major goals is to be a catalyst for true social change across western Sydney — part of that is inspiring young people to be the absolute best they can be,’’ he says.

Executive Chairman Lyall Gorman. Source: AAP

Christopher Brown

When the history is written of how an airport finally came to be built at Badgerys Creek, at least once chapter should be devoted to Brown.

As a member of the federal government’s panel that recommended Badgerys, the Parramatta-bred tourism advocate kept talking when others didn’t want to listen. He was also one of the first to talk up his home town as a genuine CBD.

Today, he chairs the Eels Round Table Forum and sits on the board of the University of Western Sydney and the Moorebank Intermodal Company.

Grant O’Brien

The electrical apprentice who rose to become CEO of supermarket giant Woolworths, headquartered in north-western Sydney’s Bella Vista, still keeps a focus on the workers of tomorrow.

O’Brien leads 190,000 employees, but is spearheading a major youth employment initiative called Generation Success to find ways to give more young people improved career prospects.

Jeremy Donovan Source: Supplied

Jeremy Donovan

Donovan, an internationally renowned didgeridoo player, was tapped last year to become the national ambassador in mining magnate Andrew Forrest’s GenerationOne indigenous initiative when Warren Mundine stepped down as CEO.

The 34-year-old, who is raising four children at Mulgoa, near Penrith, is part of the new breed of indigenous leaders who believes lives are only transformed through education and work, not welfare dependency.

Lionel Lee

The grandson of Chinese immigrant Bing Lee runs what has become the largest privately held electrical retail business in NSW with more than 40 stores visited by 120,000 people a week.

Old Guilford continues to serve as Lee’s corporate headquarters, harking back to the company’s early days in Fairfield selling black and white TVs to new immigrants who did not have a credit rating.

Rawand Al-Hinti

The Jordanian-born 21-year-old has been identified as one of the West’s articulate young voices.

“I believe if you work hard and aim for success you’ll flourish regardless of what suburb you are from or what school you went to,’’ she says.

The Macarthur Girls High School vice-captain, who mentors other university students while studying law and international relations, was recently appointed to the NSW government’s Youth Advisory Council.

Stuart Ayres

The enthusiastic Liberal MP for Penrith is winning praise since being promoted to become Premier Barry O’Farrell’s Minister for Western Sydney late last year.

The 33-year-old, who is the partner of federal Liberal Senator Marise Payne, has helped drive the government’s decision to relocate more than 3000 bureaucrats to western Sydney and understands the urgent need to create jobs and build new houses.

David Borger

The former Labor State Minister and Parramatta Mayor remains a strong campaigner for change as Sydney Business Chamber’s Western Sydney director.

“It sometimes feels like those in the east aren’t interested in the west and that’s a problem,’’ he said in his typically frank style last October.

James and Gretel Packer have sought his advice in relation to their $30 million arts gift to the West.

Barney Glover

The newly appointed University of Western Sydney Vice-Chancellor has wasted little time settling in, winning in-principle approval from his board this week to build a major campus in Parramatta’s CBD.

The former VC at Charles Darwin University will work closely in his new role with the UWS’ well-connected Chancellor Peter Shergold.

Yadu Singh

The Indian Australian Association of NSW president set up shop as a cardiologist in Baulkham Hills soon after arriving from India in 1991.

He has been writing and speaking passionately ever since as a leader of Australia’s — and Western Sydney’s — fastest-growing immigrant group.

His 12,400 Twitter followers are rarely left in doubt about his views, whether it be his advocacy on behalf of Indian students, his defence of Australia against claims it is racist or his support of a Western Sydney airport.

Tony Perich

The son of Croatian immigrants, the Greenfields Development Co managing director is turning dairy country into up-market housing developments in the buzzing southwest.

Estimated by BRW to be worth more than $850 million, the Perich family was once the biggest dairy farmer in the southern hemisphere through its Leppington Pastoral Company.

The family’s assets include the iconic former Oran Park raceway where at least 5500 houses and units are being developed, along with the biggest Woolworths in Australia.

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The End

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Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/23rd April, 2014

August 11, 2013 by Yadu Singh

INDAUS FAIR, Sunday, 11th Aug, 2013, Rosehill Race Course, Rosehill, NSW!

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/11th Aug, 2013
dryadusingh@gmail.com
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June 4, 2013 by Yadu Singh

India is the top source of migrants to Australia!

[Source of Pictures: TOI article, Ravi Lochan Singh’s Blog and DIAC press release]

With 29016 people from India who were granted migrant Visa to come to Australia in 2011-12, India is now the top source of migrants to Australia. This is 12.7% more than the previous year. This is likely to continue for years to come. By now, Indian-born numbers have grown four fold in the last 15 years, while Chinese-born numbers have grown by three fold..

The Census in 2011 told us that there were about 400,000 people of Indian heritage in Australia. If we add the numbers up to June 2013 and add the numbers from people of Indian heritage from other countries plus those born here in Australia, the number of people of Indian heritage could well be about 500,000 by June 2013.

With 21768 Indians in 2010-11, India was the third top source of Australian migrants. With 29546 Chinese immigrants, China was the top source then. Things have obviously changed.

The latest list outlining the sources of migrants also tells us that 7 of 10 countries are from Asia, the region where Australia has its major trading partners.

China with 25508 is the second top source and Great Britain with 25273 is at the third spot.

India has many good universities with a large number of young people with the skills and English which Australia needs. These skills are in the fields of medicine, IT, teaching, nursing, Engineering, accounting, management and many others. These are all high value skills which are in great demand all over the world. Australia is now competing with other countries quite successfully.

I am quite pleased that increasing numbers of Indians are choosing Australia as the place to migrate to, despite exaggerated negative coverage of Australia in the Indian media in the recent past. This is the best certificate that Indian media was not factual in its reporting back then.

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/4th June, 2013

http://www.au.linkedin.com/in/dryadusingh

May 4, 2013 by Yadu Singh

India House in Sydney: what is this about & why do we need it?

(See an important update at the end of this post)

The Indian Australian community in Australia comprises of about 400,000 people, out of which about 150,000 reside in New South Wales. Ours is a growing community and about half of our people have migrated to Australia during the last ten years.

Every community is unique and has its special characteristics and requirements. In this sense, we are no different from the other multicultural communities in Australia. Many of these requirements can be fulfilled by a Community Centre, which acts not only as the centre for all community/social interactions and mentoring/guiding services, but also for entertainment activities. Private family occasions like weddings and other events can also take place there. Any such centre should have sufficient space and facilities to cater to a range of activities. This Centre should be able to self-sustain financially, and should be run professionally.

Despite being a major community, we do not have this community Centre, which is in total contrast with other communities like Chinese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Serbian, Croatian and others, many of which are smaller than ours, but do have such community premises.

India House has been talked about for more than 20 years but nothing obviously has happened. Talks and visions should have moved to something realistic and something fruitful by now, but it is yet to happen. We believe that it did not happen only because serious and sincere efforts were never made.

Projects of this nature require huge capital to make it happen. We strongly believe that finances can be raised if there is a group of dedicated & committed people in our community who have integrity, vision, determination, perseverance, willingness and capacity to work on the plan for 3-5 years. The fund raising components must have multiple components, and it should include fairs, charity drives, direct contributions from the community, and also sponsorships from governments and businesses.

Our initial spadework informs us that there is sufficient goodwill for this huge venture in our community. We recognise that the biggest hurdle in this huge task is the distrust community members have towards community groups/leaders because they have not been transparent, accountable and result oriented, and in fact, some have used their groups for financial benefits. To make it worse, some have become branches of political parties. It is a common knowledge that finances generated from events, small and large, have often been mismanaged and possibly misused. The fund sourcing process therefore must remain ethical, transparent and must be supervised by at least two reputed finance professionals. This fund-raising must have the charity status and tax concessions.

We wish to take this project earnestly and start the process by donating the entire amount saved after expenses from the INDAUS FAIR on Sunday, 11 August 2013, which will take place at Rosehill Gardens, Rosehill Race Course, Rosehill, NSW. We will outline our detailed plan and the process of fund raising soon.

Our plan is to have a nodal group of 10 people who will do the initial work, using the expertise in law, planning, project work, finance, Real Estate, accounting and marketing among others.

This will be followed by a meeting with community representatives/leaders and members of media with the purpose of brain storming, exchanging ideas, revising and fine tuning the project. Media is so essential for this project and this project will be an “inclusive” work as far as practicable.

The Project will be super headed by a management committee, Board of Trustees and Advisory Council, and will have membership with defined benefits of such membership. The guiding principle will and must always be transparency, accountability and proper governance with an added motto of “service with integrity”.

More info from dryadusingh@gmail.com, www.yadusingh.wordpress.com and www.indaus.org.au

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/2^nd May 2013

President, Indian Australian Association of NSW Inc

————————————- UPDATE: 31st Aug, 2014 https://yadusingh.wordpress.com/2014/08/31/india-house-in-sydney-update/ ————————————-

April 26, 2013 by Yadu Singh

Nalini Needs You. Can you help her please?

Can you help? There is a better chance to help if you are from Kerala background but any Indian can help!

Dr Nalini Ambady, a professor at Stanford University, was recently diagnosed with a recurrence of leukemia, which she first battled in 2004. Now, she has only eight weeks left to live and urgently needs a bone marrow transplant from a genetically matched donor.

Originally from Kerala, Ambady became the first Indian American female professor in the Psychology Department at Harvard University, Tufts University, and Stanford University, according to a press release. Her research has been covered in Malcolm Galdwell’s book, “Blink.” More details are available on www.NaliniNeedsYou.com

People of South Asian descent have a lower likelihood of finding a bone marrow match, and in Ambady’s case, doctors have estimated that chance at one in 20,000.

HOW YOU CAN HELP?

Since every willing donor may not be a perfect match for Nalini, we need as many willing donors as possible in a short time.

If you are willing to help and in the age group of 18-45 years please ring RED CROSS on 131495 and register with Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry and donate.

ABMDR donor info is here for your information. http://www.abmdr.org.au/

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Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/26th April, 2013

April 7, 2013 by Yadu Singh

INDAUS Fair in Sydney: Sunday, 11th August, 2013.

INDAUS Fair in Sydney: Sunday, 11th Aug, 2013.

Venue info and other details coming up!

Stay tuned!!

Dr Yadu Singh

dryadusingh@gmail.com

April 4, 2013 by Yadu Singh

Our team raised $22215 for recent Qld Floods victims!

OUR TEAM RAISED $22,215.00 FOR QUEENSLAND FLOODS VICTIMS!

Press Release:

Sydney, 3nd April, 2013.

Indian Australian Association of NSW Inc [INDAUS Inc] members teamed with others in the Hills Shire and organised a hugely successful Charity fund raising event for Bundaberg Floods Victims, at Mother India Restaurant, Dural, raising $22,215.00 on Sunday, 24th March, 2013.

Earlier on 29th January, our group was having dinner at Mother India when the idea was born to give something back to the community. It comprised of Dr Yadu Singh [INDAUS Inc President], Gareth McCray [Broadcaster & INDAUS Inc member], Ross Colossimo [CEO of The Australian Brewery & Bella Vista Hotel, Sanjeev Sharma [Mother India Owner & INDAUS Inc member], Rajiv Chaudhri [CEO of Hitek Australia & INDAUS Inc member], Poonam Verma [Jewellery Designer from India], and Kanika Chaudhri [Rajiv’s daughter].

This discussion came to focus on the myriad of disasters that had hit Australia since January. We got round to realising that the Regional city of Bundaberg had been worst hit. It was suggested and agreed that we contact the Hills Shire Mayor, Dr Michelle Byrne, and see if she would agree to front a committee to raise some funds to help the people of Bundaberg. We did that and she agreed. A committee was constituted and potential sponsors were decided to run a special Charity Dinner at Mother India.

The steering committee consisted of the above people and had the following join us later:-

Dr Michelle Byrne, the Hills Shire Mayor, A/Prof Jim Taggart, Joseph Ishak from Skad Australia, Clr Jeff Lowe, John Ebbott, Ms Sonya Phillips [Former Hills Shire Mayor], Journalist Bev Jordan and David O’Neill, the General Manager of the Castle Hill RSL.

Meeting on a weekly basis, our team planned the event which included day time markets followed by buffet lunch and a lavish dinner with entertainment, auctions and raffles. Entertainment was provided by renowned singer, Angie Dean and a local Bollywood dance group, organised by Mother India.

At $75 per person, the team did not take long to fill the restaurant with 120 people. They enjoyed a three course sumptuous dinner with Beer and wine donated by generous donors, The Australian Brewery, Australian Hotel Association & Castle Hill RSL.

Master of Ceremonies for the event was media personality, Gareth McCray and auctioneer was A/Professor Jim Taggart who both brought the electrifying energy and enthusiasm to the event, thus helping in the collection of funds.

Salvation Army Officer from Bundaberg, Mr Peter Evans was flown down to Sydney to witness the event. His flights and accommodation were sponsored, organised by the team, at no cost to him.

The items for auction included a Cricket Bat signed by national teams of Australia and UK [bid successfully by INDAUS Inc Vice President, Stanley D’Cruz for $2000], Jewellery worth $3500 from House of Fraser, a necklace donated by Poonam Verma and many others.

It was an absolute privilege working with each of these people in the team, who all knew fully well why this fund raising was important for the People of Bundaberg.

Families and businesses in Bundaberg that had only just started getting on top of things since the previous flood had to watch again as their lives were upended and swept away by the Burnett River that raged with a ferocity that had never been seen before.

The floodwaters did recede as quickly as they rose but nothing could prepare the residents for what they found when they crossed back across the Burnett River – some houses had sunk into the ground, others were covered in mud so deep, bed lined in the trees roads turned up. The river turned Bundaberg into a war zone. However the spirit of Faith, Hope and Love grew out of this disaster.

A Faith that is based upon the knowledge that we can always rely on each other to help when the need is there.

A Love of the friends, family and people from across the nation, such as here in The Hills Shire, who have come to help those in great need.

This is what makes the many national multicultural groups that make up Australia so special. We believe that thing we call “mateship” is something we should be so proud of, and which we can show whenever our fellow Australians are in need of.

That is why we came together on Sunday March 24 to join in that spirit of Faith, Hope and Love and help the people of Bundaberg.

In addition to INDAUS Inc members taking a key role in the project, Indian Australians worked shoulder to shoulder with Hills Shire community and raised this amount for people in Queensland who need it so desperately.

We, in INDAUS Inc, were proud to be the key members of the committee, responsible for execution of the project and delivery of the outcome in a substantial way. It was a unique experience for us in INDAUS Inc.

INDAUS Inc is indeed proud to be part of doing something for our fellow Australians.

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With contribution from Gareth McCray and released by Dr Yadu Singh

Dr Yadu Singh/Sydney/4th April, 2013
http://www.twitter.com/dryadusingh
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March 31, 2013 by Yadu Singh

Indian Australian groups contributed to Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, 3rd March, 2013!

Sydney, 31st March, 2013

Like last year, we took part in Clean Up Australia Day activities this year too.

On Sunday, 3rd March, 2013, friends from 3 organisations-Indian Australian Association of NSW Inc [INDAUS Inc], Basava Samithi of Australia [BSOA]-Sydney Chapter and Samarpan Inc [A group of people who have family members with disabilities] joined up for the clean up activities at GARRISON POINT, MURRUMBEENA RESERVE, OFF HENRY LAWSON DRIVE, GEORGES HALL, NSW-2198.

It started at 8 am and went on until 10.30 am.

After collecting several bags of rubbish, the clean up party had a tea/coffee session and general discussion, followed by certificates and pics. We discussed how important it is for all of us from all sort of backgrounds to get involved in Australian events/activities which will help Australia and Australians. Australia is after all our home!

People who took part in it included myself [Dr Yadu Singh], Chidanand Puttarevanna, Stanley D’Cruz, Gaurav Nirwal, Rajni Chandran, Uday Shah, Jaywanth Vaidya, Parul Shah, Hemanth Raju, Paramesh Halaradhya, Vishwas Suresh, Dayanand Mogale, Vishwanath Halyal, Prajwal Pradhan, Vijay Kumar and many others.

From the Clean Up Australia website:

“Australians have more than demonstrated their passion and responsibility for cleaning up their local environment. Over 550,300 volunteers have donned their gloves and picked up a bag to remove rubbish from around 7341 sites across the nation.

Early figures predict they will have removed around 16,150 tonnes of rubbish, just the beginning of what is shaping up to be a tremendous effort yet again.

Since the national event started in 1990 Australians have donated more than 26,100,600 million hours towards caring for the environment through Clean Up Australia Day, by removing an estimated 288,650 tonnes of rubbish across the country.”

Clean Up Australia Day is truly a national event, in which everyone participates.

Indian and other multicultural groups have been increasingly participating in these activities.

Australia is a great & clean country and it is everyone’s job to keep it that way.

We did our part and are proud of it.

Dr Yadu Singh