A 53-year-old woman and a 57-year-old man received jail sentences today after being convicted of keeping a woman in forced labour at their Mount Waverley home for nearly nine years.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) began investigating the matter in September 2015 after receiving a referral from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (now the Australian Border Force), regarding a woman from India who travelled to Australia on a Tourist visa.
The AFP Human Trafficking Team commenced an investigation, which resulted in slavery charges being laid in June 2016
A comprehensive nine-month investigation by the AFP resulted in the 53-year-old woman and 57-year-old man being charged in June 2016 with possessing a slave, contrary to s270.3(1)(a) of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth) and exercises over a slave any right of ownership, contrary to s270.3(1)(a) of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth)
On Friday, 23 April 2021, a jury returned guilty verdicts on all charges. Today, 21 July 2021, the 53-year-old woman was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment, with parole eligibility in four years.
The 57-year-old man was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment, with parole eligibility in three years.
The court heard the couple kept the Indian woman in squalid conditions where she was forced to cook, clean, and care for the couple’s children over an eight-year period before she collapsed and was taken to hospital, weighing just 40 kilograms.
AFP Detective Superintendent Jayne Crossling said the offending was hidden in plain sight.
“The AFP is appealing to any victims, potential witnesses, or communities impacted by human trafficking to know there are pathways to support,”
D/Supt Crossling said.
“We want the public to be aware that human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices are happening here in Australia, all too often without anyone in the community know about it.
“Our hope is for every case we investigate, it helps others experiencing similar conditions to speak up and seek our help.
“It is up to all of us to work together to protect people who are vulnerable to the exploitative crimes of modern slavery.”
The Support for Trafficked People Program is a key component of Australia’s response to support victims of human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices, and is delivered nationally by the Australian Red Cross.
If you or someone you know is being exploited, help is available. For information and confidential advice please contact Australian Red Cross. Call (03) 9345 1800 or visit redcross.org.au/stpp.
Australia’s higher education workforce has literally been decimated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mass forced redundancies and non-renewal of casual contracts were highly stressful. And now some disciplines and academics who committed their lives to teach feel publicly invalidated as unnecessary in the reconstruction of the sector to produce what the government deems to be “job-ready graduates”.
Our recent review finds academics in Australia and New Zealand were suffering high levels of occupational stress well before COVID-19. Recent upheavals only added to existing problems. This is likely to jeopardise recruitment and retention of staff even in the very areas, such as health, teaching and medicine, where the government expects high future demand.
Our research team members are now turning their attention to the impacts of anonymous student feedback on academics’ well-being. Preliminary findings suggest it’s having extreme impacts on the mental health of some of the workforces that remain, especially early career academics. We are also investigating their perceptions of the impacts of this feedback on teaching quality and academic standards.
What are the main sources of stress?
The review of university teaching staff over the past 20 years found five key factors that contributed to stress and distress:
Representative picture of University Teachers; Picture Source: @CANVA
the role transition from professional to academic practice in applied disciplines — for example, a shift-working nurse moving from a hospital setting to teaching in a university
role differences for academics compared to other university staff such as administrative and IT staff as most academics have to work after hours and on weekends to manage their workload and meet performance indicators for research and teaching (including student feedback scores)
Representative picture of University Teachers; Picture Source: @CANVA
Academics are facing tighter managerial control and greater surveillance. Every facet of their role is subject to oversight and regulation.
The great changes in technology have contributed to this situation. While technology may enable and enhance the educational experience online, it’s also increasingly used to monitor and manage performance.
Universities that have embraced performance management, reduced the professional autonomy of teaching staff and demanded increased productivity have the lowest rates of job satisfaction. Australian academics’ satisfaction with their jobs and their institutions’ management is very low compared to other countries.
Representative picture of University Teachers; Picture Source: @CANVA
What about the students?
Ultimately, overworking and micro-managing teaching staff may lead to burnout and reduced enthusiasm for teaching. Additionally, an overemphasis on student retention and happiness may contribute to an erosion of academic standards.
This means many academics must struggle to balance keeping students happy, ensuring they succeed, while trying to maintain professional and academic standards. Many must also find the time to produce “quality” research outputs in an increasingly competitive environment.
So far, several hundred academics have completed our research team’s voluntary survey. The majority report receiving comments that were distressing, offensive or disrespectful. Even though these student comments are personally hurtful, many report that such comments are not redacted before being distributed, sometimes widely, within the university.
Representative picture of University Teachers; Picture Source: @CANVA
Universities appear to neglect the impacts of this feedback on academic well-being and reputation. One respondent wrote:
“I have watched colleagues go through a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) of sorts when evaluation swings around. They have a physiological response: sweaty palms and rapid heart rate.”
It remains to be seen how extensive this experience is and how the problem can be managed so an experienced, qualified and enthusiastic workforce is maintained.
Representative picture of University Teachers; Picture Source: @CANVA
If you are an Australian health academic who would like to be involved in this research on the influence of anonymous narrative student feedback, please consider completing this ten-minute survey.
Deepak Chahar's heroics guide India to thrilling win; Picture Source: Twitter @BCCI
Deepak Chahar played one of the most memorable knocks to steer India to a thrilling win over Sri Lanka in the second ODI here at the R Premadasa Stadium on Tuesday.
Chahar (69*) smashed a gusty fifty and stitched an unbeaten 84-run stand with Bhuvneshwar Kumar (19*) to take India home after the visitors were reduced to 193/7 in the second ODI.
India was down and almost out in their chase but Chahar made sure India get home in the final over. India needed 16 runs to win in the last three overs and the duo ensured the visitors do not lose any wickets and then guided the Shikhar Dhawan-led side to win with five balls to spare. With this victory, India has taken an unassailable 2-0 series lead.
Chasing 276, India got off to flying start but were soon put on the back foot as opener Prithvi Shaw and Ishan Kishan departed in quick successions to reduce visitors at 39/2.
Skipper Shikhar Dhawan and Manish Pandey stitched a 26-run stand but Wanindu Hasaranga trapped the opening batsman in front of the stumps in the 12th over.
India breath on short partnerships as Suryakumar Yadav gave the visitors a glimmer of hope. However, the right-handed batsman departed after scoring his half-century as India got reduced to 160/6.
After losing Hardik and Krunal Pandya India were in a spot of bother before Deepak Chahar revived the visitors’ innings.
Chahar slammed a magnificent fifty and took India close to the target along with vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Chahar and Bhuvneshwar then did the honours as India sealed the series 2-0 with one match to go.
Earlier opting to bat first, Charith Asalanka (65) and Chamika Karunaratne (44*) played fighting knocks as Sri Lanka scored 275/9 in the allotted 50 overs.
Sri Lanka was in a spot of bother at 194/6 before Asalanka’s gutsy fifty and Karunaratne’s late cameo took the hosts over the 250-run mark. For India, Deepak Chahar backed Chahal and Bhuvneshwar as he scalped two wickets.
Sri Lanka began well as they scored 59 in the first 10 overs. Openers Minod Bhanuka (36) and Avishka Fernando (50) got Sri Lanka off to a solid start.
However, twin strikes from Yuzvendra Chahal in the 14th over put the hosts on the backfoot. Chahal got the wickets of opener Bhanuka and Bhanuka Rajapakasa in back-to-back deliveries to put India in the driver’s seat.
Fernando steadied the innings as the hosts went past the hundred-run mark, but Bhuvneshwar sent him back as soon as the batsman completed his fifty.
Two overs later Deepak Chahar struck for India as Dhananjaya de Silva failed to convert his good start into a big score as Sri Lanka got reduced to 134/4. Every time Sri Lanka steadied the ship a wicket fell as Chahar and Chahal kept the length tight.
Deepak Chahar’s heroics guide India to thrilling win; Picture Source: Twitter @BCCI
Sri Lanka was on 194/6 in the 40th over when Charith Asalanka revived the hosts’ innings. Asalanka’s fighting fifty kept Sri Lanka ticking the scoreboard as the hosts reached 244 before he got out.
In the last two overs, Sri Lanka scored 23 runs to reach 275 despite losing two wickets in the final six balls.
Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 275/9 (Charith Asalanka 65; Yuzvendra Chahal 3-50) vs India 277/7 (Suryakumar Yadav 53, Deepak Chahar 69*; Wanindu Hasaranga 3-37)
City of Melbourne, Australia; Picture Source: @CANVA
A study of the 75 cities about working digitally (work from home) has put Melbourne on top.
However, Melbourne is not the only Australian city in the top ten. Dubai beat Sydney to be on number two and Tallinn in Estonia follows it on number four.
Multiple lockdowns and restrictions suggest that remote working is to rise despite travel curbs ease with the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic over.
Working from home is not new to a lot of sectors including Information technology and Banking, however, Covid-19 restrictions have certainly forced many more people to work from home, which has raised questions around the location-centric approach to working.
City of Sydney, Australia; Picture Source: @CANVA
A lot of so-called ‘digital nomads’ are choosing great locations in the far-flung suburbs of Melbourne and Sydney due to their low cost of living and lifestyle opportunities.
As soon as the vaccination process will speed up globally international travel will slowly but surely start opening back. It will be an opportunity for these global ‘digital nomads’ to choose the best city which is best equipped for remote working.
City of Dubai; Picture Source: @CANVA
According to a new study done by Nestpick.com, a Berlin-based furnished housing platform Melbourne is the best city in the world for ‘Digital Nomads.’
The study assessed 75 of the world’s “most liveable” cities for their suitability when it comes to remote work, taking into account 16 factors under the group headings “costs and infrastructure”, “legislation and freedoms” and “liveability”.
Survey website says, “We decided to investigate which cities are not only the most attractive and welcoming to foreigners but also have the infrastructure and legislation in place to make it easy for remote employees [domestic and/or foreign] to live and work there.”
Melbourne, known for its cafes, ranked No 1 overall despite coming in the top three for just two individual factors (“gender quality” and “culture and leisure”).
Tallinn, in Estonia; Picture Source: @CANVA
Dubai, Sydney, also in Australia, and Tallinn, in Estonia, placed second, third and fourth in the study, and also benefit from visa conditions that allow foreigners to work remotely without additional permits.
However, of the 75 cities ranked in the “Work-from-Anywhere Index”, only 10 are covered by specific digital nomad visas (including Australia’s working holiday visas) –
Omer Kucukdere, founder and CEO of Nestpick says, “High earners are leaving business-focused cities to live in places that offer better day-to-day lifestyles, taking their purchasing power with them.”
“What we’ve seen through our study is that technology and employers have moved faster than infrastructure, with many legal barriers still in place for migrants who want to bring their job with them.”
City of Londn; Picture Source: @CANVA
Post-pandemic, governments who move quickly to offer digital-nomad-friendly visas may receive early-mover benefits.
“We will see more cities adapting to these new working conditions, and benefiting from the economic boost that these workers inject into their economies,” said Kucukdere.
SA Premier Steven Marshall and Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Due to the current level of community transmission of coronavirus in Victoria, the current lockdown is extended for seven more days till 11:59 pm July 27, 2021.
Travel to Victoria using Red Zone Permits is also temporarily paused, which will potentially lock out hundreds of Victorians wanting to return from interstate.
“It is to ensure we run this Delta outbreak to the ground.”
said Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews.
“We cannot put Victoria’s hard-earned gains at risk by letting this Delta variant run free. We want Victoria back open as soon as possible – and we’ll do everything in our power to get us there safely and quickly,” stressed Premier Andrews.
This means that current settings will continue for the next seven days until Tuesday, 27 July at 11.59 pm.
There are only five reasons to leave home:
1- Getting the food and the supplies you need, 2- Exercising for up to two hours, 3- Care or caregiving, 4- Work or education if you can’t do it from home, 5- To get vaccinated at the nearest possible location.
Victoria’s total number of active cases stands at 85.
Highlights:
More than 15,000 primary close contacts in quarantine
More than 250 exposure sites online stretching from Phillip Island to the Mallee; and
Daily cases in double figures.
Shopping and exercise must be done within 5kms of your home or the nearest location.
It also means face masks will remain mandatory indoors (not at home) and outdoors unless an exception applies – this includes all workplaces and secondary schools.
Minor changes are made to the Authorised Premises and Authorised Worker List to include services that operate solely outdoors where physical distancing can be maintained at all times, pet grooming mobile services and pamphlet delivery services.
From Wednesday 21 July more students with disabilities will be able to return to on-site learning. Where a parent or carer indicates that a student with a disability cannot learn from home due to vulnerability or family stress, the school must provide on-site learning for that student. This change will apply to students enrolled in specialist schools and students with a disability enrolled in mainstream schools.
Minister for Health Martin Foley said, “We’ve had thousands of Victorians return from New South Wales in recent weeks, but with the situation escalating, the recent incursions and the increased infectiousness of the Delta variant, we must act to protect Victoria and temporarily pause Red Zone Permits.”
He claims, since the beginning of the second wave in Sydney, the Victorian Government has supported around 10,000 Victorians to return home from orange and red zone areas and health authorities have provided clear warnings that Victorians in NSW should get home as quickly as possible because of the escalating situation there.
“Due to the serious and persistent nature of the risk in NSW, we cannot continue to have hundreds of people coming to Victoria from the red zone every day.”
For this reason, the Chief Health Officer will temporarily pause the issuing of Red Zone Permits from 11:59 pm on Tuesday 20 July – pending a further review in a fortnight.
For at least the next two weeks, Victorian residents in red zones will require an exemption to enter the state – and these will only be granted in exceptional circumstances.
If people enter Victoria from New South Wales without an exemption, they will be put on a return flight or placed in 14 days mandatory quarantine under the COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria (CQV) program.
Fines of $5,452 may be imposed if a person is found to have entered Victoria from a red zone without a permit.
A person will still be able to enter Victoria from a red zone if they are aircrew, listed on the Specified Worker List, or transiting through Victoria to another jurisdiction – e.g. travelling from regional NSW through Mildura to get home to South Australia.
The CHO will continue to consider the status of the Australian Capital Territory, but the pause of Red Zone Permits also applies to that jurisdiction while it is classified as a red zone.
There are no changes to the current arrangements for border communities.
South Australia Update
20 July 2021
An announcement has been made regarding changes to public activity restrictions. Level 5 restrictions will be in place from 6:00 pm in the whole of South Australia.
South Australia’s Premier Steven Marshall told, “The lockdown will be for seven days due to confirmation that the outbreak is the highly transmissible Delta strain.”
“This is a highly infectious strain and that is why we are taking these extreme precautions.”
From 6 pm, there are just five reasons South Australians can leave their home:
Care and compassion reasons
Essential work
Medical reasons including vaccination and testing
Purchase of essential goods, such as a food
Exercise limited to those from the same household
Level four restrictions were brought back into effect at midnight after three new cases were detected in the community yesterday. One of the positive cases is the daughter of an 81-year-old man who returned from Argentina and also tested positive. The other two include a man and woman in their 50s.
Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier said the new case linked to the Greek on Halifax restaurant is concerning authorities as more people could have been infected at that venue.”I want to get the message out if anyone has been to the Greek on Halifax – you need to get into quarantine and get tested,” Professor Spurrier said.
“If we have more and more people continuing to move, this virus will spread – we’ve seen how quickly things can get out of control in NSW and Victoria.”
From 20 July 2021 masks are required in enclosed public places where people are present with people from different households. This includes shared indoor public places (eg. shops), passenger transport services, health care services, high-risk settings.
Nepal parliament, newly-appointed Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba; Picture Source: Twitter
With a 66 per cent majority in the Nepal parliament, newly-appointed Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba will now lead the country’s government till the next general elections.
Deuba, who garnered a total of 165 votes out of 249 votes cast on Sunday during a vote of confidence in Nepal’s Parliament late evening, would now remain the prime minister until the next general elections which are expected to be held in 2022.
“Members of the house, the total number of present members of the house during the voting was 249. Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, who tabled a motion of confidence as per Article 76 (6) of the Constitution of Nepal to show floor is on his support, garnered a total of 165 votes. A total of 83 votes has been cast against the motion and one vote has gone to neutral,”
House Speaker Agni Sapkota announced.
With a clear majority, Mr Deuba will be chairing as Prime Minister until the next general elections, which as per Nepal’s latest Constitution of 2015 should be held at an interval of every five years.
Mr Deuba, who also is president of the ruling Nepali Congress, had been appointed as prime minister as per Article 76(5) of the constitution on Tuesday, following Supreme Court’s mandamus.
A simple majority of 138 votes was required for Deuba to continue as Prime Minister out of 271 member House of Representatives.
Lawmakers belonging to CPN (Maoist Center), Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) factions led by both Upendra Yadav and Mahantha Thakur, Rastriya Janamorcha Party and a section of lawmakers of CPN-UML had voted in favour of Deuba during the floor test.
Earlier, the apex court in its verdict ordered President Bidya Devi Bhandari to appoint Deuba as the successor of KP Sharma Oli, former Nepal PM.
Congratulations Prime Minister @DeubaSherbdr and best wishes for a successful tenure. I look forward to working with you to further enhance our unique partnership in all sectors, and strengthen our deep-rooted people-to-people ties.
A total of 146 members of the House of Representatives (HoR) had reached out to apex court with a writ petition to demand the restoration of the house and appoint Sher Bahadur Deuba, as the next prime minister on May 24.
This was after the Nepal President had refused to allow Deuba to form a new government as per Article 76 (5) and dissolution of the House.
With Oli failing to secure the vote of confidence on May 10, Bhandari on May 13 had appointed Oli as prime minister under Article 76 (3) of the constitution as the leader of the party with the highest number of members in the House.
A week after his appointment, Oli on May 20 in a sudden move recommended that the President invoked Article 76 (5) to choose a new prime minister.
Thank you very much, Prime Minister @narendramodi Ji, for your congratulatory note. I look forward to closely working with you to strengthen the relationship between our two countries and people. https://t.co/rJIElX1ytY
It is the President who initiates Article 76 (5) when a prime minister appointed under Article 76 (3) fails the trust vote.
Mr Oli, however, neither sought the trust vote nor resigned, thereby creating a situation in which a prime minister was asking the President to appoint a prime minister.
Victoria has entered a five-day lockdown to control its growing outbreak of the more infectious Delta variant.
Until midnight on Tuesdayrestrictions mean residents are only allowed to leave home for essential reasons, can only travel five kilometres away from home, and need to wear masks outside the home, among other measures.
We consider the lockdown essential and we strongly support this rapid action. However, our modelling predicts a five-day lockdown may not be enough.
Instead, we predict at least 30 days of restrictions will be needed before Victoria reaches three days without community transmission.
That’s if we take into account current and predicted case numbers, the fact we’re dealing with the more infectious Delta variant, and with current levels of vaccination.
The good news is Victoria is more likely to reach these three “donut days” sooner if vaccination rates pick up, even modestly.
We built a mathematical model based on nine COVID-19 outbreaks across four Australian states (including Victoria) since the start of the pandemic. We posted details online as a pre-print. So our model has yet to be independently verified (peer-reviewed).
Our model allows us to predict — given current case numbers, the particular variant in circulation and vaccination rates, among other variables — how long public health restrictions such as lockdowns need to last to achieve particular outcomes. Our model also allows us to predict how many cases an outbreak has at its peak.
Models are mathematical tools to predict the future, something, of course, no one can do with 100% certainty.
However, our model differs from others because it considers the difference between mystery cases and cases linked to a known case.
It also comprehensively integrates the effects of various public health measures, such as social distancing, wearing masks, contact tracing and vaccination.
What did we find about Victoria?
When we plug data about Victoria’s current outbreak into our model, this is what we find.
Our model predicts the number of daily reported cases of community transmission will continue to climb over the next week or so. Even with the current lockdown, we predict a peak of at least 30 cases a day over the next 7-14 days.
We predict the current outbreak will last for at least 30-45 days before Victoria can return to three days of zero community transmission.
Measured easing of restrictions can occur before this time, which Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews flagged might be possible for regional Victoria.
However, given the fact Delta is more transmissible than the original Wuhan version of the virus, controlling Victoria’s outbreak will inevitably be more difficult and take longer than dealing with an earlier outbreak of similar size.
New South Wales knows too well how hard it is to get a Delta outbreak under control, something our model predicted.
Back to Victoria, our model supports a hard lockdown that minimises the chance of ongoing transmission.
Strict lockdown (80% reduction in social activities) and mandatory mask use in public spaces and workplaces (90% coverage) — equivalent to what’s expected in Victoria’s current lockdown — have been effective in previous outbreaks in Victoria and other states.
However, we predict the same approaches may only have a 50:50 chance to contain the current Delta outbreak in Victoria.
This means the Delta variant is likely to linger, bouncing at a level of a dozen cases for weeks. This means public health authorities will find it hard to decide how and when to lift restrictions.
Our model suggests even modest rises in the vaccination coverage in Victoria, by an additional 5% for example, would dramatically increase the chance of controlling the outbreak from 50% to over 80%. If an extra 10% were vaccinated the chance of controlling the outbreak is 94%.
This is because the evidence is mounting vaccinated people are less likely to transmit the virus to others. That’s in addition to the vaccines’ well-known benefits in reducing your chance of severe disease.
So getting as many Victorians vaccinated as quickly as possible is critical.
What do we make of all this?
Our study conveys a simple message. The battle against the Delta variant in the latest outbreak in Victoria will likely be tough but going early has given us the best chance.
This lockdown will not be as effective as earlier ones in Victoria and coming out of this will need to be carefully managed.
So keeping to the health advice, and vaccinating more Victorians as soon as possible even over the next few weeks, are key to handling this outbreak.
Victoria's Premier Daniel Andrews; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Victoria’s lockdown will be most certainly extended after the state recorded 12 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases today (Monday), However, all the cases are linked to the current outbreak.
Premier Daniel Andrews told themedia, “These restrictions simply cannot end at midnight tomorrow night. That would not be the responsible thing to do.”
As per the announcement made by the Premier on Thursday evening, Victoria’s lockdown was supposed to end on midnight Tuesday. Due to a large number of close contests of COVID positive cases still to be tested Mr Andrews is not confirming how long the current lockdown will last.
“For as long as it need to … not a moment longer,”
” Premier Daniel Andrews added.
The Victorian health department confirmed it recorded 13 new local infections in the 24 hours to Monday morning, among these numbers is one case from the regional Victorian town of Mildura which is of great concern to authorities.
It is also advised by health authorities that all the new locally acquired cases are linked to the current outbreaks and of Delta variant.
Victoria’s total number of active cases is now 81. There are currently 15,800 primary close contacts in quarantine or isolation.
Premier Daniel Andrews again stressed that the Delta variant of COVID19 is a “great challenge” and his decision to take Victorians to snap lockdown was correct.
“If we had stayed open, we would be just like Sydney … with hundreds and hundreds of cases,” he summarised.
Australian shares ended higher last week to log their best week in six. Investors looked past lockdowns in Melbourne and Sydney as mining and healthcare rallied strongly.
The Australian healthcare sector, which makes a bulk of its earnings in US Dollars, was the top gainer on the index as the US dollar gained against the Australian dollar.
Major mining stocks also rallied higher with BHP reaching a new all-time high as iron ore prices ticked higher and as brokerages expect the iron miners to gain from increased iron ore shipments and higher prices.
The news, however, was not all rosy with the Australian state of Victoria ordered into lockdown from Friday 16 July following a spike in Covid19 cases, joining Sydney as they battle an outbreak of highly infectious Delta variant.
Market Mantra representative picture via @CANVA
A worldwide surge in fast-spreading Delta variant also revived fears across the World markets that the global health crisis is far from over and resulted in US markets going into a nosedive. Mounting infections of Coronavirus globally and persistent inflation fears in the USA have renewed investors’ worries and should reflect in Australian markets as they enter into next week.
The bullish investor sentiment also dipped last week to its lowest level since October 2020, signalling a rise in bearish sentiment with investors concerned about inflation, low growth, low bond yields and revived global health crisis fears.
To put it in perspective there have already been more COVID related deaths in just six months of 2021 than the entire 2020 globally. In addition, last week saw a 12% increase in coronavirus cases worldwide with the Delta variant now being the dominant variant and responsible for a worldwide surge in cases.
Gold prices fell on Friday as a strong US dollar weighed in, however, ended the week higher for a fourth week in a row.
A stronger US dollar and perkier yields on Government treasury bonds are beginning to undercut some buying appetite for the yellow metal. Higher strong US treasury yields will likely be a catalyst in a dip in gold prices next week. However, the good news is that gold’s fundamental and technical setups are both much more bullish now. As such we have now switched our opinion from selling into rallies to buy into any dips below USD 1800.
Market Mantra representative picture via @CANVA
Having said that, as investors begin to fret about the spread of the COVID19 Delta variant and the fitful reopening of the global economy, as well as concerns US markets are topping out, it may impact gold bugs negatively.
Oil prices ended the week lower as investor sentiment was sapped by expectations of increased supplies and concerns that arise in global coronavirus cases, leading to more lockdown restrictions and depressing demands.
OPEC nations on Thursday said that it expected world oil demand to go up next year to be around levels seen before the pandemic, led by demands in the US, China and India. However, the rise of the highly infectious Delta variant raised concerns about triggering new lockdowns that would likely reduce recent bullish oil demands. Britain reported its highest number of new COVID19 cases in more than six months on Friday and in the USA, Los Angeles County reimposed its mask mandate over the past weekend. Both this news have added to concerns that the pandemic is far from over and there may be more lockdowns to come, thus impacting oil demand.
Market Mantra representative picture via @CANVA
The Australian dollar continued to decline against the US dollar and continues to look very threatened. With no reprieve from COVID cases in NSW and Victoria joining the lockdown the Australian dollar looks like will probably break down again.
The 50 days EMA for the Australian dollar is also moving towards the 200 days EMA to form the death cross which long term traders pay close attention to. As Australia continues to lock areas of the country down and with lockdown set to extend next week, this can be no good news for the economy.
As such a break below the 0.7400 level may see the Australian dollar much quicker again towards the USD0.70 mark as it will be a break of significant support.
Indians in Australia planning to send money home can expect exchange rates Australian Dollar against the Indian Rupee continues to trade between a tight range of 55.20 and 55.60. The expectation is that an increase in high imported commodity prices may weaken the Indian currency, however, an intervention from the Central Bank in India and lockdown in Australia will limit any rise in Australian currency.
Market Mantra representative picture via @CANVA
In the world of Cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin lost close to 10% in value against the US dollar. While the support around USD 30,000 remained intact a bear crosses between the 50/200 moving averages and 100/200 moving averages signal bears taking strong control.
A break below USD 30,000 is expected to result in a drop to the Fibonacci level of 61.8% from its peak at $27,169 followed by a retracement to a viable target of Fibonacci 76.4% at USD 18,256.
China’s crackdown on Bitcoin have also resulted in very low trading volume in cryptocurrencies and there does not seem to be enough fiat currency to boost the crypto market in the near short term.
Market Mantra representative picture via @CANVA
In agricultural products, corn futures recorded their biggest weekly climb in 10 years as prices extended after a US government report showed lower than expected plantings and dry weather shrinking world supplies. Wheat and soybean also rallied to end the week higher for the first time in four weeks.
This week the traders will be keeping a close eye on weather forecasts for direction. The dry season has raised concerns in regards to food supplies globally. There are a couple of rain events likely next week which may help the farmers globally however the weather forecast is offering no comfort that the rain will arrest a drop in yield in dry farmlands.
As such the traders shall be closely watching the amount of rain from these rain events.
Author: Ateev Dang is a trader and trading coach by profession. He runs Glow trades Pty Ltd where he teaches anyone interested in starting on their trading journey on how to trade. He can be contacted at adang@glowtrades.com.au.
Disclaimer:
The writers’ opinions in the above article are their own and do not constitute any financial advice whatsoever. Nothing published by The Australia Today constitutes an investment recommendation, nor should any data or content publication be relied upon for any investment activities.
We strongly recommend that you perform your own independent research and/or speak with a financial advisor or qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
Rejith Kumar from Thrissur, Kerala in India is a Spiritualist, Healer; Picture: Supplied
Rejith Kumar from Thrissur, Kerala in India is a Spiritualist, Healer, Geomancer, and a Mystic traveller who apart from spiritually healing people, has the ability to balance energies of homes and work-areas both directly as well as remotely.
He has benefited many people worldwide with his abilities which he received as blessings from his spiritual guides who have guided him to serve humanity in this way. In the course of his spiritual quest, he has been guided to visit many energy points which are related to the lost continent of Lemuria or Kumari Kandam.
The words “Kumari Kandam” first appear in Kandha Puranam, the Tamil version of Skanda Purana written by Sri. Kachiappa Sivachariar of Kumara Kottam, Kanchipuram. The ‘Andakosam Padalam’ (Andakosam Section) of KandhaPuranam describes the following cosmological model of the Universe:
There are many worlds, each having several continents, which in turn, have several kingdoms. The ruler of one such kingdom, King Bharata (Bharathan in Tamil) had eight sons and one daughter. He divided his kingdom into nine parts, and the Kingdom ruled by his daughter Kumari came to be known as Kumari Kandam after her. Kumari Kandam is described here as ‘The Kingdom of Earth’.
The commentary was written by Saint Nakkīrar for the Tamil literary work Iraiyanar Akapporul further gives information about the three Tamil Sangams which existed during the Kumari Kandam period. These assemblies consisted of Tamil scholars and poets who researched the Tamil language and created many literary works. They considered Kumari Kandam to be the cradle of the Tamil civilization.
Rejith Kumar says he was intuitively guided to visit many energy points in various countries through visions. These would give him the necessary clues as to the identity of the location. Some of which include – Russia, China, Thailand, the Mac Ritchie Reservoir (Singapore), Blue Mountains and Lion Island (Australia), Dragon Hill and Silbury Hills (U.K.), Plaine de Sables and Piton de la Fournaise (Reunion Island), Khamrin Khiid Monastery (Mongolia), Fushimi Inari Temple (Japan), Kathirkamam (Sri Lanka), Tiger Nest (Bhutan), Pura Besakih Temple (Bali), Aivar Malai, Anjaneyar Malai, Kannivadi Hills, Poombarai, and Ujjain (India).
Rejith Kumar claims that he was divinely guided to receive specific energies such as the Panchabootha Energy, Sapta Rishi Mandalam or (Big Dipper) Energy, Pleiades or (Karthika) Constellation Star Energy, Swastika Energy, and Mother Tao Energy from the various energy points to facilitate in his performing future duties.
Rejith Kumar shared some of the interesting revelations he had received during his visit to the energy points. They include:
The Mac Ritchie Reservoir (Singapore) – He says that this is a sacred energy point that existed during the Kumari Kandam period and possesses Lord Shiva’s energy i.e. the Divine Masculine or ‘Yang’ energy is represented here as the Formless energy of the Universe -. The Pancha Bhootha Energies i.e. the power of all the 5 elements – Air, Water, Fire, Earth, and Sky are present here). The Divine Feminine Energy or the ‘Yin’ Energy is represented here as Divine Mother Tao in Her manifested form. The two powerful energies connect at the Mac Ritchie Reservoir and the Swastika Energies can be found at their center point. It was revealed to him that ‘Swastika Energy’ had been used by the Kumari Kandam ancients for time travel. Lord Nandikeshvar is the guardian of this sacred place and if one were to pray to him and then visit and meditate they would receive sufficient blessings that would enable them to advance in both material as well as spiritual aspects.
The Silbury Hill in the U.K. has a Muruga Yantra. This was placed there by Sage Agasthiyar.
Dragon Hill in the U.K. is considered to be a gateway to the other worlds
Lion Island at New South Wales, Australia, holds information regarding Kumari Kandam and Mars
The sand present in Kathirkamam (Sri Lanka) is not from Earth but outer space.
The Karthika or Pleiadian energy is present especially in Blue Mountains, Australia.
Anjaneyar Malai near Pazhani in India is said to possess abundant Karthika or Pleiadian energy.
According to Rejith Kumar, the Pleiadian or Karthigai energies have been flowing in full abundance on Earth since the year 2013 and this being a preparation for the shift in energy consciousness on Earth. He further shares that the Earth has an astral or energy body and changes have to be first made to it before it can manifest positive changes at a physical level and it was for this reason he was directed to go to specific energy points.
He concludes by sharing his spiritual journey is closely related to the sacred place Pazhani in India and reveals that it was Lord Muruga who directed him in his travel to the energy points and revealed their spiritual significance.
In 2017, he was guided by Lord Muruga to start a spiritual mission called the ‘Lion Mayura Royal Kingdom’ (LMRK) which would serve as a global platform to carry out future duties.
Rejith Kumar is blessed by Lord Muruga that the souls who carry the Kartika or Pleiadian Energy would automatically be drawn to the mission to help effect positive changes in the world under His divine direction. It is significant to note that 1500 members from 15 countries have voluntarily come together for this sacred cause.
To know more about the LMRK Mission, you can visit their website – www.lionmayura.org.
Author: – Mrs Sowmya Nikhil
Disclaimer: The views expressed are of the authors own and not of The Australia Today or her employer.
Supermarkets in States and Territories subject to COVID-19 lockdowns will be able to employ international students in excess of the 40 hours per fortnight cap to deal with the worker shortage.
This will help struggling businesses with staff shortages to remain open to provide their essential services to the community.
Temporary measures will allow international students to work uncapped hours per fortnight in all New South Wales and Victorian supermarkets and associated distribution facilities for the duration of their respective lockdown periods.
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alex Hawke said, “These temporary arrangements would help supermarkets meet the high customer demand for critical goods during lockdowns.”
“Supermarket workers have been unsung heroes of the pandemic. They stepped up to ensure Australians have access to essential items, and they have kept doing so during the pandemic’s darkest days,”
Minister Hawke said.
“This temporary measure ensures that supermarkets can continue to provide their critical services to the community and it provides essential workers themselves with added income flexibility during lockdowns,” he said.
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alex Hawke
This decision follows a request for urgent relief by the supermarket sector, as many staff are subject to self-isolation orders.
Why did a lot of Hollywood movies represent the Pacific as an exotic place, the Middle east as of political unrest, Asia/Africa and especially India as primitive nations?
These notions are constructed by western movie makers for a large world population to make their opinion. A popular poem of Rudyard Kipling stated “East is East and West is West, and never shall the twain meet’ in The Ballad of East and West (1869).
Although East and West may not meet, however, West has dominated over East. The superiority of the ‘West over ‘East’ as a part of orientalism is noticed in many movies, literature, public opinion, foreign and government policies, academia and in the mind of scholars. Every Pacific Islander needs to comprehend the concept of Orientalism and its ramifications in the colonial and post-colonial world.
Here we attempt to explain the seminal work of Edward W. Said (1935-2003) Orientalism (1978) that explained these binary constructions.
He examines the connection between East and West, particularly how the Western supremacy in academics, academic and political representation has influenced/dominate the public policy towards Asia, North Africa and the Middle East. This is done in cultural concept/representation to form Orientalist paradigm as Orientalizing the Orient.
Said defines Orientalism as an academic discipline, style of thought and a corporate institution. Said’s work is considered the founder of post-colonial intellectual discourse, as these works combat the cultural legacies of colonialism on cultures in order to find ways that shall create a space based on mutual respect.
Power and Knowledge Relationship
The European nations had distinct cultural and political interests in the Orient when they came to study it. Academically, from the 18th century onwards, the western hegemony over the Orient was constructed by various disciplines and represented; European academics showed immense interest in East and different forms of Oriental Studies. That helped to create certain western stereotypes about the Orient that coincided with a period of European imperial expansion between 1815-1914.
It is a relationship of power and knowledge influence of Western countries (the Occident) over the non-Western Countries (the Orient); or in simple terms, the model that used varied ways by Europe for knowing the colonised world and became the means to dominate them.
The West’s claim to knowledge of the East gives the West authority to identify and govern. West is considered to have created the binary division (Self/West vs Others/East) of the East and West that is the polar opposite to each other in terms of historic, cultural, social, political and intellectual.
This binary was created in colonial times and continued in the post-colonial era. Occident cannot exist without the Orient and vice versa, as they are mutually constitutive, as per Said.
He shows that how the Orient is regarded by Occident as a place of mystery and danger, that need to be controlled. The image of the Orient was created as passive while the west was active, where imperialism motivates Orientalism.
This negative image of the Orient is not true, as per Said, Orientalism dates from the period of European enlightenment and colonisation of the Arab world. The book describes the way the historical process of concentrating knowledge about the Orient into forms that can be studied and communicated, and further presented by western people.
The idea of Orientalism was created historically to suit European (especially French and British imperialist agendas), and the concept is created through the domination of Occident culture over the Orient.
In his term Orientalism is “Western style for dominating, restructuring, and having authority over the Orient” (Said, 1978), that provide the rationalization for European colonization where the West constructed the East as inferior/different that requires western interventions to rescue or civilised.
That is the white man’s burden, and it is the duty of the white man to make him civilised. Therefore, Said’s Orientalism has challenged the bias embedded in the western consciousness.
It also attempts to analyze how the philological, literary and historical writers of the 19th century understand Oriental structures. A section of the book understand modern Orientalism and locates the continuity of the practices of British and French Orientalism in the contemporary American discourses of Orient.
Orientalism Construction
The concept of Orientalism is a way to know the ‘other’ or construction of ‘other’ (someone who is not you Or the Opposite of yourself), where, “the Orient is not an inert the fact of nature, but a phenomenon constructed by generations of intellectuals, artists, commentators, writers, politicians, and more importantly, constructed by the naturalization of the wide range of Orientalist assumptions and stereotypes”.
This relationship between Occident and Orient is based on power, domination and varying degrees of a complex hegemony. Orientalism is locating Europe’s others created the issue of national distinctiveness, racial and linguistic origins, a culture where European civilization is considered supreme. Orient is considered to be western fantasy, although it was away from the truth, it remains constant over time.
Orientalism examines various cultural works that demonstrate how western authors have explored Islam as a science of observation through various methodologies in order to present it to a western audience. The Islamic beliefs filled many western cultural words that consist of Arab and Islamic stereotypes that depicted Arabs as inferior, backward, uncivilized, exotic at times dangerous immoral to Europeans.
Orient has been described as unchanging, static, free from history or primitive, irrational, where this Orient/East is considered as an object of knowledge and passive for the West or Occident that became the realm of the subject, who knows and represents. Orientalism helps to deconstruct the multiple relationships of West domination and subordination over East. It gave voice to hegemonic practices and Western cultural supremacy.
Conclusion: Holy Trinity of Post-Colonial Studies
Said’s work has been critically worked on and extended by Homi. K. Bhabha and Gayatri Spivak. Many criticised Said’s homogenous dichotomy of Orient and Occident; provides no alternative to Orientalism; ignore gender and class differences; provide the monolithic perception of this binary; ignores resistance within the West.
Post Colonial Studies have decolonised social, political and economic domains and demanded a relationship based on equality between West and East. Now, whenever readers watch their next movie flick reflecting their identity and home destination, they probably look through the prism of stereotypes and decolonise the mind to eradicate the imposition of these ideas to make their objective understanding.
Author: Dr Sakul Kundra, A.HOD Department of Social Science, College of Humanities and Education, Fiji National University.
Victoria Small business; Representative picture @CANVA
The Victorian Government will provide new cash grants for businesses affected by the short lockdown necessary to get ahead of the Delta strain, so they can have a strong recovery on the other side of the public health restrictions.
Automatic payments will be made to eligible businesses and sole traders across the state to minimise delays and swiftly get money into the pockets of businesses that need it most.
Up to 90,000 businesses that have and will receive payments through theLicensed Hospitality Venue Fund and Business Costs Assistance Programrelating to the May-June lockdown will receive the Victorian Government’s new support payments of $3,000 and $2,000 respectively.
Payments are due to commence over the course of next week – with total funding of $201.8 million.
Victoria Small business; Representative picture @CANVA
Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews said, “No one wanted to be here, but Victorians know we must take decisive action to drive this virus down – so we’re in this situation for days, not months.”
“People start needing support from day one – hour one – of a lockdown. We know this is tough on Victorian businesses and we’re standing with them, just as we’ve done from the very start of the pandemic.”
Eligible businesses will include restaurants, cafes bars, event suppliers, tourism and accommodation providers and non-essential retailers.
Victoria Small business; Representative picture @CANVA
The Victorian Government has also reached an agreement with the Commonwealth Government to fund income support payments from day one of the lockdown.
Workers affected by the public health restrictions are now eligible for the same payments afforded by the Commonwealth to New South Wales workers:
Payments of $600 will be made to Victorians that lose 20 hours or more of work during the period of the lockdown
Payments of $375 will be made to individuals that lose between 8-20 hours of work during the period of the lockdown
There is no liquid assets test applied to receive these payments
The Federal Government will fund payments for those Victorians who work or live in a COVID-19 Hotspot declared by the Commonwealth – that includes Greater Melbourne, Moorabool Shire, the City of Greater Geelong, Borough of Queenscliffe and the Surf Coast Shire.
The Victorian Government will fund payments for Victorians who live outside of these areas but are still subject to the lockdown.
The Victorian Government’s direct economic support for businesses has topped $6 billion over the course of the pandemic, including more than $500 million through the last restrictions period with $461.2 million allocated for the Business Costs Assistance Program and Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund.
Victoria Small business; Representative picture @CANVA
Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula said, “Local businesses across Victoria are the backbone of our economy. This critical support will make sure business owners can weather this new challenge and recover strongly.”
Some 90 per cent of those program allocations have been delivered to date – $413 million in grants to more than 86,000 small and medium-sized businesses and sole traders.
The Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions is working with 22,000 applicants to the Business Costs Assistance Program to finalise those applications where information has been missing or further detail has been requested to confirm eligibility.
It is expected thousands of these applicants will be successful and paid by the end of next week.
The May/June support package also included the $20 million Victorian Events Support Package, $16 million for 80,000 regional travel vouchers and $4.4 million for the Alpine Support Program providing businesses in the alpine resorts with grants of up to $15,000.
US-Australia military drills; Representative picture Source: @CANVA
The US, Australia and Japan, along with eight other countries, have begun a joint exercise in Australia and nearby waters as tensions simmer in the Indo Pacific region.
The US and Australia kicked off their biennial Exercise Talisman Sabre on Wednesday. Defence forces from Japan, the UK, Canada, South Korea and New Zealand are also taking part in the drills, while India, Indonesia, Germany and France will participate as observers.
“The exercise will further strengthen our cooperation towards a free and open Indo-Pacific,”
Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato told reporters Thursday.
The U.S., Japan, India and Australia have been promoting a rules-based order in the region through their Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or QUAD.
US-Australia military drills; Representative picture Source: @CANVA
Japan is sending a Ground Self-defence Force unit specialising in remote island defence and tasked with the initial response to a contingency in the Nansei Islands, which include the Japan-administered Senkakus that are claimed by China as the Dioayu.
The GSDF will participate in a landing drill with U.S. and British marines and the Royal Australian Army.
“Amphibious manoeuvres are critical to defending the Nansei Islands, which is one of Japan’s top defence priorities,” GSDF Chief of Staff Gen. Yoshihide Yoshida said.
“Bolstering our tactical skills will strengthen our defence capabilities.”
The drills come at a time when the international focus is growing in Indo Pacific. Tensions are also escalating in Taiwan Strait.
Japan’s Defence Ministry called the Taiwan situation one of its top challenges, saying it must “pay close attention” to the Taiwan Strait “with a sense of crisis more than ever before,” in a white paper this week.
US-Australia military drills; Representative picture Source: @CANVA
Meanwhile, a Chinese surveillance ship began sailing towards Australian waters ahead of the exercise, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported.
“We have been monitoring its approach to Australia for several days as part of Australia’s broader surveillance effort,”
Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton said of the ship.
Indo-Pacific region is largely viewed as an area comprising the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea.
China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea and its efforts to advance into the Indian Ocean are seen to have challenged the established rules-based system.
The Taiwan Strait is a 180-kilometre-wide strait separating the island of Taiwan and continental Asia. It is one of the most heavily policed strips of water in the world.
The strait is in international waters, however, China claims Taiwan as its own territory and regards the US Navy’s presence in the area as a show of support for the island’s democratic government.
As new COVID19 cases start emerging in Melbourne due to new exposure sites and a strain of this virus that is wildly infectious.
Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews has decided not to wait to act. Mr Andrews says waiting could see more people infected and the number of exposure sites explode.
On the advice of the Acting Chief Health Officer, Victoria will go into lockdown tonight.
There are only five reasons to leave home from 11:59 pm on Thursday 15 July 2021.
That means Victorians can only leave home
1- To get the food and the supplies needed
2- For exercise for up to two hours and no more than 5kms from home
3- For care or caregiving
4- Work or education if you can’t do it from home
5- To get vaccinated at the nearest possible location.
These restrictions will be in place for five days, till 11;59 pm on Tuesday 20th July.
A list of authorised work and workers is available here.
Mr Andrews said, “If you were an authorised worker during the last lockdown, you’ll be an authorised worker this time around. Everyone else must work from home.”
Last night it was announced by Victorian health authorities that face masks must be worn indoors at all times (except at home) and outdoors when it’s not possible to physically distance.
However, under today’s announcement, face masks must also be worn outdoors at all times, as it is understood that wearing face masks can keep people safe and stop the spread.
“So please, follow the rules and wear a face mask at all times,” requested Mr Andrews
Covid-19 Outbreak Mask up Melbourne
Anyone who has returned from a red zone on a permit – They must follow the requirements of their permit. That means going straight home to quarantine for 14 days and only leaving to get tested.
And we must be clear. Quarantining means staying at home, Mr Andrews added.
Anyone who needs help getting the food and supplies while they need to quarantine at home – can call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.
Premier Andrews says, “For our families, our businesses and our state – stay at home and keep everyone safe.”
From 11.59 pm Wednesday 14 July, face masks are mandatory indoors (not at home) for anyone aged 12 and above if you live in Victoria unless an exception applies.
This includes all workplaces and secondary schools.
Face masks must be carried at all times and must be worn indoors, by anyone aged 12 years and over.
Face masks must be worn outdoors where physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres cannot be maintained from others (except household members or intimate partners), for example, at a busy open-air market or a bus stop.
You do not need to wear a mask in your own home, or if a lawful exception applies.
There are no restrictions on the reasons to leave home or the distance you can travel, but staying COVIDSafe remains important.
Stay safe by washing your hands regularly, wearing a face mask outside the home, coughing and sneezing into your elbow, and keeping at least 1.5 metres from others.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose or loss of sense of smell or taste. If you have symptoms, get tested as soon as possible.
Stay at home until you receive your test result.
Anyone who tests positive to COVID-19 and their close contacts must isolate for 14 days. Stay home. Don’t go to work, school or shopping.
COVID-19 vaccination
Vaccination centres are open to people who are eligible.
To book an appointment, visit https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/book-your-vaccine-appointment
Stay informed:
Call the Coronavirus Hotline if you suspect you have COVID-19 on 1800 675 398.
Accessibility: The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (free call) and ask them to call the coronavirus (COVID-19) hotline.
Translated coronavirus (COVID-19) resources are available here.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the coronavirus hotline.
When do I need to wear a face mask?
You must wear a face mask indoors including at supermarkets, shops, cafes, on public transport, in taxis and rideshare vehicles, on planes and at the airport (unless an exception applies).
You must carry a face mask at all times.
You also must wear a face mask outdoors when you cannot maintain a 1.5-metre distance from all others (except your household members or intimate partner).
Do I need to wear a face mask if I am a permitted visitor at a private home?
Face masks are strongly recommended if you are visiting someone in their home or having visitors to your home.
If someone is attending the home for work purposes, they must wear a face mask.
Do students at schools need to wear a face mask?
Students aged 12 and over who are learning on-site at a secondary school must wear face masks indoors unless a lawful exception applies.
Children who are attending on-site primary school or outside school hours care, including children who are aged 12 or over, do not need to wear a face mask.
Primary and secondary students are not required to wear a face mask if they have an illness, condition or disability that means it would not be suitable to wear one.
You must carry a face mask at all times and wear a face mask indoors. You must also wear a face mask outdoors where you cannot maintain a distance of at least 1.5 metres from all others (unless they are your household members or intimate partner).
You can remove your face mask when eating and drinking.
I work in an office. Do I have to wear a face mask at the office?
Yes. However, if you are working alone, you do not need to wear a face mask unless someone else enters the room.
Do I have to wear a mask when attending business meetings and events within office towers?
Yes. All people within offices are required to wear masks during normal operations, this includes members of the public attending business meetings and events. Both the members and the public and any workers sharing a workspace with them must wear a mask. ‘Member of the public’ means anyone who isn’t a worker at the workplace.
This Advice message is issued for Victoria, replacing the Advice message from Sunday 11 July.
From 11:59 pm Sunday 11 July, the Acting Chief Health Officer declared all of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory as red zones under Victoria’s travel permit system.
This means the Victorian border is now effectively closed to New South Wales and the ACT – except for Victorian residents returning on a red zone permit for 14 days of quarantine, and for people with exemptions or other valid permits (such as specified workers and cross-border residents).
Amnesty, the fourth novel from Booker Prize winner Aravind Adiga, has been shortlisted for Australia’s most prestigious literary prize – Miles Franklin Award 2021.
Image source: Wikipedia.
Adiga was born in Chennai, grew up in Mangalore and later the family migrated to Sydney in Australia. His debut novel, The White Tiger, won the 2008 Booker Prize and has been adapted into a Netflix original movie The White Tiger.
Image source: Wikipedia.
Announced at the State Library of NSW, six novels by Australian writers that are deemed by the judges to be of high literary merit in representing “Australian life in any of its phases”.
Image source: Perpetual.
The Copyright Agency’s CEO, Adam Suckling, said,
“The Copyright Agency is once again proud to be showcasing the vibrant voices of some of the country’s newest and most talented authors. This year’s announcement was both live and streamed online as part of our ongoing support of, and investment in, Australia’s creative writing industry. The inclusion of the online event gives greater access to those who inspire and challenge our views of Australian life while widely celebrating the authors’ dedication in bringing these stories to life.”
Image source: Twitter.
Adiga’s Amnesty is a tale about a Sri Lankan man Danny (Dhananjaya Rajaratnam), a cleaner, living in Sydney. The status of this man is of an “illegal immigrant” who risks being exposed and deported after he becomes entangled in a murder investigation of a client.
Over the course of a single day Danny must fight with his conscience and decide if a person without rights still has responsibilities. Adiga manages to combine humour, satire, tragedy and a critique of contemporary Australia.
Image source: Twitter.
Richard Neville, State Library of NSW Mitchell Librarian and Chair of the judging panel.
“In various ways each of this year’s shortlisted books investigate destructive loss: of loved ones, freedom, self and the environment. There is, of course, beauty and joy to be found, and decency and hope, largely through the embrace of community but, as the shortlist reminds us, often community is no match for more powerful forces.”
Each shortlisted author receive $5,000 and the winner gets $60,000 in prize money for the novel judged as being “of the highest literary merit” and which presents “Australian life in any of its phases.”
Victoria has recorded seven new locally acquired COVID-19 cases as health authorities race to get on top of the movements of three furniture removalists who made their way across the state.
Victorian Health authorities have confirmed another seven cases have emerged after last nights deadline, as just one case was reported until Tuesday midnight.
These new cases have stemmed from the three removalists and a Hume family who had earlier returned from NSW.
As per the ABC report, among the seven new community cases, one 30-year-old man visited a Coles supermarket in Craigieburn.
Four of the new cases are residents on the third floor of the Ariele Apartments in Maribyrnong, which has been in lockdown since Monday evening.
Among them is a man in his 60s who subsequently infected his parents, who are aged in their 80s and live in Craigieburn.
The man attended an AFL match between Carlton and Geelong on Saturday and was seated in level two of the MCC section of the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Up to 2000 people have been contacted.
He also visited Highpoint shopping centre.
Besides, there is a list of all premises which have either had confirmed cases visit during their infectious period or are sites where a confirmed case may have acquired their infection.
If you have been to any of the locations below during the specified times:
Follow the specific advice listed for that exposure site
Tiers 1, 2, and 3 explained
Tier 1 exposure sites
Anyone who has visited a Tier 1 exposure site during the times listed must immediately isolate, get a COVID-19 test, and quarantine for 14 days from the date of exposure. You should also contact the Department of Health on 1300 651 160.
Tier 2 exposure sites
Anyone who has visited a Tier 2 exposure site during times listed should urgently get a COVID-19 test and isolate until they receive a negative result. You should also contact the Department of Health on 1300 651 160.
Continue to monitor for symptoms, get tested again if symptoms appear.
Tier 3 exposure sites
Anyone who has visited a Tier 3 exposure site during times listed should monitor for symptoms. If symptoms develop, immediately get a COVID-19 test and isolate until you receive a negative result.
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Oakleigh
Vanilla Lounge17-21 Eaton MallOakleigh VIC 3166
09/07/2021 2:45pm – 4:30pm
Case attended venue
14/07/2021 12:30pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Melbourne
Young & Jackson1 Swanston StreetMelbourne VIC 3000
10/07/2021 2:40pm – 4:10pm
Case attended venue
14/07/2021 12:30pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Maribyrnong
The Reject Shop Highpoint Shopping Centre Level 2120-200 Rosamond RoadMaribyrnong VIC 3032
09/07/2021 11:30am – 12:10pm
Case attended venue
14/07/2021 12:20pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Maribyrnong
SkinKandy Highpoint Shopping Centre Level 1120-200 Rosamond RoadMaribyrnong VIC 3032
09/07/2021 11:15am – 12:35pm
Case attended venue
14/07/2021 12:20pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Maribyrnong
Highpoint Shopping Centre North Carpark Level 1120-200 Rosamond RoadMaribyrnong VIC 3032
09/07/2021 11:10am – 11:40am
Case parked vehicle and entered via the same level
14/07/2021 12:15pm
Tier 2 – Get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result Anyone who has visited this location during these times should urgently get tested, then isolate until confirmation of a negative result. Continue to monitor for symptoms, get tested again if symptoms appear.
Maribyrnong
Highpoint Shopping Centre North Carpark Level 1120-200 Rosamond RoadMaribyrnong VIC 3032
09/07/2021 12:00pm – 12:30pm
Case parked vehicle and entered via same level
14/07/2021 12:15pm
Tier 2 – Get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result Anyone who has visited this location during these times should urgently get tested, then isolate until confirmation of a negative result. Continue to monitor for symptoms, get tested again if symptoms appear.
Maribyrnong
ALDI Maribyrnong11 Edgewater BoulevardMaribyrnong VIC 3032
09/07/2021 5:30pm – 6:10pm
Case attended venue
14/07/2021 12:05pm
Tier 2 – Get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result Anyone who has visited this location during these times should urgently get tested, then isolate until confirmation of a negative result. Continue to monitor for symptoms, get tested again if symptoms appear.
Richmond
Level 2 of MCC Members’ Reserve, Carlton v Geelong game Melbourne Cricket Ground, Brunton Ave, Richmond Richmond VIC 3002
10/07/2021 4:00pm – 8:00pm
Case attended the game. Some staff and patrons present will be made Tier 1 primary close contacts and will be directly contacted by the Department of Health.
14/07/2021 11:00 am
Tier 2 – Get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result Anyone who has visited this location during these times should urgently get tested, then isolate until confirmation of a negative result. Continue to monitor for symptoms, get tested again if symptoms appear.
Richmond
MCG, Carlton v Geelong game (excluding Level 2 of MCC Members’ Reserve)Melbourne Cricket Ground, Brunton Ave, Richmond VIC 3002
10/07/2021 4:00pm – 8:00pm
Case attended game
14/07/2021 11:00 am
Tier 3 – Monitor for symptoms Anyone who has visited this location during these times should monitor for symptoms – If symptoms develop, immediately get tested and isolate until you receive a negative result.
Kalkallo
Caltex Kalkallo1340 Hume HighwayKalkallo VIC 3064
08/07/2021 9:07am – 10:06am
Case attended venue. The exposure site includes a petrol pump area and toilets.
13/07/2021 10:00pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Ballan
Mobil Ballan – Westbound6511 Western FreewayBallan VIC 3342
08/07/2021 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Case attended venue. The exposure site includes shower/bathroom facilities.
12/07/2021 10:30 pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Ballan
McDonalds Ballan – Westbound6511 Western FreewayBallan VIC 3342
08/07/2021 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Case attended venue
12/07/2021 10:30 pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Maribyrnong
Ariele Apartments7 Thomas Holmes StMaribyrnong VIC 3032
08/07/2021 1:00pm – 11:59pm
This applies to any person who was present in or who entered the residential part of 7 Thomas Holmes St between 1:00pm until 11:59pm on 8 July. This includes any access to the residential foyer, stairwells, lift, residential floors and carpark. This excludes people whose only exposure to the building was to enter a commercial space on the ground floor and who did not enter any residential space. Note: cases attended complex.
12/07/2021 8:30pm
Tier 1 – Get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure Anyone who has visited this location during these times must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure.
Maribyrnong
Ariele Apartments7 Thomas Holmes StMaribyrnong VIC 3032
09/07/2021 12:00am – 11:59pm
This applies to any person who was present in or who entered the residential part of 7 Thomas Holmes St from 12:00am on 9 July. This includes any access to the residential foyer, stairwells, lift, residential floors and carpark. This excludes people whose only exposure to the building was to enter a commercial space on the ground floor and who did not enter any residential space.
12/07/2021 8:30pm
Tier 2 – Get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result Anyone who has visited this location during these times should urgently get tested, then isolate until confirmation of a negative result. Continue to monitor for symptoms, get tested again if symptoms appear.
Maribyrnong
Ariele Apartments7 Thomas Holmes StMaribyrnong VIC 3032
10/07/2021 12:00am – 11:59pm
This applies to any person who was present in or who entered the residential part of 7 Thomas Holmes St from 12:00am on 10 July. This includes any access to the residential foyer, stairwells, lift, residential floors and carpark. This excludes people whose only exposure to the building was to enter a commercial space on the ground floor and who did not enter any residential space.
12/07/2021 8:30pm
Tier 2 – Get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result Anyone who has visited this location during these times should urgently get tested, then isolate until confirmation of a negative result. Continue to monitor for symptoms, get tested again if symptoms appear.
Maribyrnong
Ariele Apartments7 Thomas Holmes StMaribyrnong VIC 3032
11/07/2021 12:00am – 11:59pm
This applies to any person who was present in or who entered the residential part of 7 Thomas Holmes St from 12:00am on 11 July. This includes any access to the residential foyer, stairwells, lift, residential floors and carpark. This excludes people whose only exposure to the building was to enter a commercial space on the ground floor and who did not enter any residential space.
12/07/2021 8:30 pm
Tier 2 – Get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result
This does not mean that there is an ongoing risk associated with the premises. You can safely visit the site in line with current restrictions.
Dinesh Gourisetty Candidate for Victorian Liberal Party President; Picture Source: Facebook
Multimillionaire entrepreneur of Indian origin Dinesh Gourisetty has put his hand up to contest for Victoria’s Liberal Party’s presidential election against the high-profile incumbent.
Who is Dinesh Gourisetty
This story is no less than any Bollywood movie. Two decades ago, A young international student lands in Melbourne Airport from India knowing no one in Australia.
Coming from a farmers family in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Dinesh’s life grind started very early from his school time.
A one and a half-hour daily trip to and from his primary school made Dinesh understand education is the only thing that can help his family from hardships. As a good student, he received scholarships to study undergraduate level in Business Management. To meet his expenses Dinesh used to give tuitions to local students.
Picture Source: Facebook
However, after working for two years in India, in the year 2001, Dinesh decided to go for higher studies in Australia. He came to Melbourne to do his Masters in Information Systems from Victoria University and achieve better prospects in his work life after returning to India.
Arvind Shanghais is General Manager with a multinational IT company in Sydney and had studied with Dinesh in his college days. He told The Australia Today, “There was something different with Dinesh, his ideas were always ahead of what others used to think.”
“Dinesh always used to say I want to work for the community, not any company.”
After coming to Melbourne life was as usual as it is for any international student. He worked as a kitchen hand, cleaner, and petrol station worker while at University.
The migrant-friendly residency policies at that point in time gave wings to his plans. He became Australian Permanent Resident soon after finishing his degree.
Picture Source: Facebook
Kapil Katpelly has been Dinesh’s Flatmate and friend since both of them moved to Melbourne as international students. He says, “We used to talk and plan about starting a lot of business while travelling on bus, train and trams in those days.”
“Dinesh asked me if I would like to be business partner with him, I just said sure.”
Dinesh and Kapil ended up launching ‘Spice -Zone’ the first South Indian grocery shop in Melbourne.
For Dinesh, Melbourne was like a place where dreams come true. Within two years, one after another, He started three restaurants ‘Indi Chillies’, ‘Alankrita’ and ‘Indi Hots’ to cater for the needs of the growing South Asian community.
Picture Source: Facebook
Within few months he understood sourcing food items for Indian restaurants was an issue. He quickly decided to start a frozen food items company ‘Indi- touch’ that would source specific Indian food items from India and supply them to restaurants and retails.
Well, after food and work sorted one thing an Indian migrant can’t live without is Indian movies. Kapil and Dinesh used to buy CD’s of their favourite actors but missed watching “Telugu movies” on the big screen.
Kapil Katpelly told The Australia Today, “The idea of ‘KD Entertainment’ started over few beers.”
“We were really sick of watching movies on low-quality CD’s, and decided to start our own movie distribution business.”
“We ended up distributing more than 50 movies in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi languages but that business ended all the fun we had because Dinesh got married that year in 2005, and he became a family man,” laughingly says Mr Katpelly.
Picture Source: Facebook
“I think it was 2006, One day I received a call from Dinesh who asked me to gather all our friends at our restaurant in Footscray, I even asked him what happened but he just said be there at 6 pm after work.”
I didn’t know that meeting was going to change the direction of Dinesh’s life or maybe our life added Mr Katpelly.
“Dinesh told us, see as it was PM John Howard’s policies which helped us to be citizens and be part of Australian society, I am going to support Liberal Party in the election.”
“I told him, that’s not a big deal we can donate a few thousand dollars to the Liberal party fund if you want. But he had something else in his mind, he told us I need your time not money to support the election campaign.”
Kapil said, “Dinesh used to take one or two of us and sometimes used to go alone to distribute election material as Liberal Party volunteer.”
Picture Source: Facebook
Dinesh Gourisetty kept working as a volunteer for Liberal Party for the next six years before becoming a member in 2012-13.
By this time Dinesh became a very successful businessman of Indian origin in Melbourne with diverse interests in Restaurants, Petrol stations, Grocery Shops, Function Centers. And at present into business consulting services by the name DG business Consulting.
His Restaurants at Footscray, Docklands, Melbourne CBD were known for backdoor food tables for homeless people. Kapil Katpelly says, “Our belief is if possible, anyone hungry should not go without food from our doors.”
The businessman Dinesh was converting into a community worker. He became the youngest President of the Telugu Association of Australia (TAAI) in its 25 years of journey in the year 2014. He was also International Director of Wyndham Rotary for 2015-16.
Seeing his community work and leadership skills Liberal Party offered Dinesh Gourisetty to contest the 2014 Victoria state election from the Tarneit electorate in the western suburbs of Melbourne. Dinesh did make a strong impression on this safe Labor seat but lost the election.
Dinesh was also a candidate in the 2018 State elections for the number two spot in the western metropolitan region. The difficult second position on the Liberal ticket was a long shot to win.
Picture Source: Facebook
In the last seven years, he has been to different party positions as Chairmen, Vice-chair, Treasurer in Liberal Party’s Lalor, Tarneit and Altona districts branches.
Currently, Dinesh is Chair of the Western Metro Regional Electorate Conference (WMREC), a powerful Liberal party body for the western region.
Now, Mr Gourisetty has thrown his hat in the ring for the election of Liberal Party President in Victoria. The vote will be held at the Liberal’s annual state council meeting next month.
One of the high-profile leaders of Victoria’s Liberal party wrote a personal message to party members requesting to support Dinesh.
He wrote, “Dinesh Gourissety rang me this afternoon to inform me he has nominated for President. I am surprised but he is a very credible candidate and easy to vote for. You may not know him but he is the most high profile party member of Indian background.”
“He will garner a lot of support. Two Big Party leaders are now openly supporting him. Many others will follow.”
Party insiders have multiple opinions about his decision few even say it is a sign of protest vote against the targeting of people of Indian origin by the party.
Picture Source: Facebook
One of the Liberal Party members who doesn’t want to be named told The Australia Today, “I know Dinesh and seen his courage and resilience when he used to go for door-knocking in his election.”
“A lot of time people would target him by saying, go back to your country, you took our jobs and now you want to sit in parliament.”
Dogs were left on us, stones were thrown, and after threatening phone calls Dinesh had to change his mobile number, I started picking his phones just to protect him from abuse, he added.
“I think all this made him strong, perhaps stronger and focused then we can imagine.”
David Wood is a former party member in Liberal Party’s western districts. He told The Australia Today, “We all are Australians but come from different backgrounds. When it comes to Party elections, people are elected on merit and capability, and the Party has a long history of electing women, men and people of multicultural backgrounds.”
Picture Source: Facebook
“Candidates merit, qualification and ability to do the job should be the primary markers.”
“Dinesh Gourisetty has strong competition, and I wish him well,” added Mr Wood.
It will be decided within the next few weeks whether Dinesh Gourisetty can succeed against incumbent heavyweight Robert Clark. But he will definitely give a good shakeup to the internal politics of the Victorian Liberal Party.
Representative picture of post worker; Source: @CANVA
A traumatised Post worker had to take a day off work after a racist message appeared on his scanner.
The Indian-origin post worker was delivering a parcel on a street in Halswell, Christchurch. He told 1 News that the racist message just popped up on his screen when he scanned the parcel’s barcode.
This is the section where post customers normally leave delivery instructions.
The abusive racist message called for the post worker to go back to India.
Image source: NZ Post
He didn’t deliver the parcel but took a photo and reported the incident to his manager.
The post worker told 1 News:
“I’m living here in New Zealand since the last 10 years and never heard a single thing like that. I was really shocked at what happened.”
The scared post worker even had to take a day off work.
“I’m a bit worried and scared … if the customer is racist and if the customer can hate me or do something to me, where is the security [for us]?”
Representative picture of post worker; Source: @CANVA
The worker said the behaviour was not okay and he hoped the offender would not get away with it.
“Yesterday [Wednesday] was me and another day it could be anyone else. That’s why we just want to try to make a strict action against that so that wouldn’t happen in the future.”
Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon told 1 News that workers’ safety must come first.
“We receive them in the service industries and schools and hospitals and the public, there’s a lot of casual racism around.”
Image source: NZ Post.
An NZ Post spokesperson said the incident was appalling.
“NZ Post does not stand for any form of racism. The safety and wellbeing of our people is paramount. This incident is abhorrent and unacceptable. We are taking this extremely seriously – the matter is currently with the police for investigation, and we are also carrying out our own investigation.”
NZ police have also confirmed to the media that they had received a report on the matter which was being assessed.
Chris Gayle in 3rd T20 against Australia; Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
A vintage knock from Chris Gayle aided with skipper Nicholas Pooran’s calm approach helped West Indies thrash Australia by six wickets in the third T20I on Tuesday morning.
With this win, West Indies secured a T20I series victory over Australia with two more games to go. A quality death bowling from West Indies had restricted Australia to 141/6 before the hosts chased down the total comfortably with 31 balls to spare.
During the run chase, Gayle also became the first player to smash 14000 runs in the shortest format of the game.
Chasing 142, West Indies got off to a bad start as Mitchell Starc struck in the first over dismissing Andre Fletcher for four runs.
Chris Gayle in 3rd T20 against Australia; Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Lendl Simmons and Chris Gayle then stitched a 38-run stand for the second wicket before Riley Meredith removed the opener reducing West Indies to 42/2 inside the power play.
However, Gayle continued smashing the ball as he found his form to bring up his first T20I fifty since 2016. He smashed three consecutive sixes to get to his half-century.
Meredith dismissed Gayle in the 12th over but the damage was done as West Indies just needed 33 runs in eight overs. Pooran and Andre Russell in end guided the hosts to a series-clinching win over Australia in the 15th over.
Earlier opting to bat first, Australia scored just 141 runs despite a good start. Matthew Wade and skipper Aaron Finch stitched a 41-run stand for the first wicket in five overs. However, the visitors kept losing wickets at regular intervals as the batsmen never really looked comfortable during the innings.
West Indies in 3rd T20 against Australia; Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Australia were 80/4 in 12 overs and Moises Henriques (33) and Ashton Turn (24) revived the visitors’ innings but failed to get to a decent total.
Brief Scores: Australia 141/6 (Moises Henriques 33, Aaron Finch 30; Hayden Walsh 2-18); West Indies 142/4 (Chris Gayle 67, Nicholas Pooran 32; Riley Meredith 3-48)
“I really just wanted to win a round, I didn’t expect this. I had a tough French Open, lost to a good player, so here I just wanted to keep my expectations low so that if I passed them, then I’d be happy. But this was way beyond my wildest dreams.”
Samir’s parents had moved to America in 1980s. He has committed to joining Columbia University in the autumn.
At Columbia, Samir will continue to play college tennis.
“It’s going to be amazing, this trophy is going to be my centrepiece, I’m going to look at this and be inspired to keep playing and hopefully come back here as a pro.”
Image source: Twitter.
Samir’s coach couldn’t travel with him to the stadium. So, he had to travel to Wimbledon with his uncle Kanad.
Samir joked:
“My uncle is here, he’s not technically a tennis coach, but if these results keep happening then I should start travelling with him more.”
Samir and Victor were contesting the third all-American boys’ singles final in Wimbledon history.
The 17-year-old was previously ranked 19 in the world.
Indian American NASA intern Pratima Roy; Picture Source: Twitter @NASA
Social media went on for a hate trade after the USA’s National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) shared photographs of four young individuals who had received an internship with them.
Actually, NASA’s post was to remind people interested in the summer internship program about the last date to apply. In this post, four pictures of diverse background interns were shared.
Among them was a beautiful photograph of Indian American intern Pratima Roy. The photograph showed Ms Roy with idols of Hindu Goddesses and photographs stuck on the wall.
Today's the day: applications for fall NASA internships are due!
Her picture displaying Hindu-goddesses brought the worst out of a lot of people who claim to be academic, liberal and secular.
Ashok Swain, whose Twitter profile says a Professor of Peace and Conflict Research at Uppsala University even questioned NASA, “Why do Hindus need to surround themselves with Gods and Goddesses.”
He further added to his tweet and questioned the judgement of NASA for selecting that particular image. After Twitterati raised the issue of Hinduphobia Ashok Swain appears to have deleted his quoted tweet since then.
Hindu hate kept going to the lowest level and one Twitter handle Mission Ambedkar even accused NASA of killing ‘Science’.
Even in this wonderful moment where they should be celebrating Pratima Roy, they could not let go of the hate towards Hindus, said Yadu Singh, Sydney based President of Federation of Indian Associations in NSW.
He wrote on Twitter,
“The mocking of #PratimaRoy for her religious beliefs (Hinduism) is Hinduphobia.”
Mocking of #PratimaRoy for her religious beliefs (Hinduism) is Hinduphobia. Hinduphobe scumbags support other religions’ practices & beliefs under the concept of choice & diversity, but a Hindu woman practicing her faith is ridiculed. That’s religious bigotry & hatred! @NASAhttps://t.co/lqgBs1FTsw
Rashmi Swant, former President-elect of the University of Oxford who was last year targeted by the Hinduphobic mob said, I’m so proud of each person in this picture and more so of a fellow sanatani woman.
“What a beautiful ensemble of photos. More power to each of them and a shout out to the beautiful Hindu woman for proudly representing her culture.”
I'm so proud of each person in this picture and more so of a fellow sanatani woman. However, it is disheartening to see a Hinduphobic meltdown in comments section targetting her.
Support also poured in to counter the blatant Hinduphobia.
This episode demonstrates widespread Hinduphobia in social media narratives. A lot of people raised the question, will women from other religions be targeted in the same way if they would have shared pictures with their religious symbols.
This brings the debate of ignorant institutionalised Hinduphobia to the forefront. Hinduphobia deniers are the actual Hinduphobic who target even the young women achievers of Hindu faith, said Yadu Singh.
Gokul Prasad is a Dalit Social Scientist. He told The Australia Today, “There seemed to be more tweets about Pratima Roy and how dare she be there … and what right has she got to be there.”
“Even in this jubilant moment, the hate is what just dominates their thinking.”
“Their brain is now based on the absolute hate and hysteria of the Hinduphobia,” added Mr Prasad
Image source: Craig Kelly and Yogi Adityanath - Wikipedia.
The Indian state of the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of BJP, is earning praises for its effective management of the Covid-19 situation from most unexpected quarters.
Craig Kelly, an Australian Member of the Federal Parliament has praised the effective leadership of CM Yogi Adityanath in crushing the second wave.
The Uttar Pradesh Health Department had introduced ‘Ivermectin’ as a preventive measure for people who came in contact with COVID patients, health workers, and the treatment of the patients themselves.
‘Ivermectin’ is an oral treatment normally used to treat lice and other parasitic infections, to save the lives of its critical COVID patients.
Recognising these efforts, Craig Kelly hailed the pre-emptive steps taken by Yogi Adityanath and wished similar efforts were made in Australia.
To support his views, Craig Kelly even put out data to prove why the usage of Ivermectin was a productive way to curb the pandemic.
In another tweet, Craig Kelly had said:
“The Indian State of Uttar Pradesh is crushing COVID – but the world’s media and W.H.O refuse to tell the truth of how they are doing it”.
This didn’t go unnoticed by Indian Australians. Sydney based Dr Yadu Singh wrote on social media, “Yogi Ji’s high reputation as an administrator is reaching far and wide.”
Interesting! Australian federal MP @CraigKellyMP, irrespective of what you think of the MP & his views, wants Uttar Pradesh CM @myogiadityanath on loan to manage COVID in Australia. Just shows Yogi Ji’s high reputation as an administrator is reaching far & wide. pic.twitter.com/G594U1Wngc
Australian shares recorded a weekly loss last week as the nation stared at an extension of lockdown in NSW, the most populous state of Australia, due to a continuous surge in virus cases.
The authorities warned on Friday that the three-week lockdown in NSW could be extended to provide more time to contact tracer to get on top as Sydney continues to record a huge rise in locally acquired cases.
The announcement immediately battered the already beaten travel stocks with Flight Centre and Webjet bearing the major brunt of investors. Corporate Travel, Qantas and Sydney Airport also extended the decline.
The technology sub-index also recorded its second consecutive weekly loss after Afterpay shed 5.2% on Friday.
Market-Mantra-Nasdaq; Picture Source: @CANVA
The financials were not much better with all major banks down. The finance sector fell by 1.2% for the week, ending down for two of the last three weeks.
Miners and energy stocks were the only ones that provided some boost to the investors as strong commodity prices and a weak Australian dollar boosted the sentiment. Miners were up for a third week running and the energy sector recorded gains for the second week in a row even though the oil prices remained under pressure most of last week.
While investors had been factoring in Sydney lockdown as a transitory stage the surge in cases has changed the equation with investors now unsure if Sydney will be locked down for a month or even longer. While there is some bullish sentiment to start the week on Monday following the US share rally last Friday that could soon fade if cases in Sydney continue to increase.
Apart from numbers in Sydney investors will also be keeping a close eye on June jobs data due later this week. Consumer and producer sentiment will be another data that investors will watch closely this week as they tend to provide clues about how people are reacting to the highly uncertain economic conditions.
Gold prices recorded their sharpest weekly rise in seven weeks to mark a third straight weekly advance. The move-in Gold bullion came as trade in the US subdued and US long-dated Treasury yields touched their lowest levels since February.
From US tapering worries to virus cases picking up in Asia and Europe again, from economies opening up to lockdown in Australia, there is still plenty of uncertainty as to where the world economy is heading and that uncertainty is expected to show in Gold prices.
Australian Gold; Picture Source: @CANVA
This uncertainty also means there is still a lot of wait-and-see approaches amongst gold traders. As such based on the technical analysis it seems gold would either need to clear resistance at the $1814 level or break the support around $1790 to provide trend directionality.
Oil prices were under pressure most of the week last week, however, Friday provided a big boost after a US government report showed rapidly declining stockpiles of Oil in the US and record-high fuel demand in the middle of peak travel season. Oil prices have been volatile recently due to the ongoing impasse among OPEC+ countries overproduction hikes. In the meanwhile, the WHO has urged caution on reopening worldwide as Delta variant spreads.
The Australian dollar continued to decline against all major currencies last week as the Delta variant takes firm hold over NSW. Against the USD further confirmed its break below the 200-day moving average. A bearish crossover between 20 and 50-day SMAs also offers a strong bearish trend for the Aussie against the greenback. Even though the RBA surprised the market with dovish statements about the economy last week and a change of stance to full employment in Australia, the Aussie dollar capitulated to the dismal market mood as the economic impact of continued lockdown in Sydney dragged the mood lower.
In other words, the traders looked disappointed with Reserve Bank continuing to maintain a dovish stance as traders focus firmly on lockdowns amidst increasing CoVid cases. The slow vaccination rate in Australia also continues to add to the negative sentiment and hence provided more control to the Bears.
Australian Dollar; Picture Source: @CANVA
The Indian Rupee also continued to drop as increased oil prices continue to impact the local economy negatively. A continued rise in oil prices is expected to edge India’s inflation to a seven-month high.
After terrible PMI data last week showing India’s service activity shrinking at the fastest rate in 11-months the investors will be looking at the Reserve Bank of India to stabilise the economy and provide intervention to curb an INR drop that India can’t afford.
In the world of Cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin and Ether cower under fire by global regulators again. Thailand joined China and Iran to ban cryptocurrencies while top US diplomats hoped El Salvador will complete a financing agreement with IMF after a dramatic move by El Salvador to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender from September 7.
The new law would mean Bitcoin will be on an equal footing with the dollar which became El Salvador’s official currency 20 years ago. US is hoping a financing agreement between El Salvador and IMF will help change its mind.
With 90% of all mining in China going offline a downside breakout is making it harder for Bitcoin to get a price recovery.
Bitcoin; Picture Source: @CANVA
With Bitcoin on verge of entering Bollinger downward channel, it seems in terms of cryptocurrency the Bears shall rule for now.
In agricultural products, the price of most grains hard a sharp fall as a drier than average summer reduced the yield potential. News from India especially that Indian farmers planted 10.43% fewer summer crops than the same time last year. Farmers in India typically start planting summer-sown crops on June 1 when monsoon rains usually reach India.
India, one of the world’s top agriculture producers, received 5% below average rainfall in June when the four-month monsoon season began. As per data released by Central Ministry in India, the rains were 46% below average last week.
Nearly half of India’s farmland is dependant on monsoon rains that provide 70%-90% of annual rainfall to these regions.
The market is at the crossroads though at this stage to see if we will get the rain to revive the yield potential for the summer crops or will the lack of rains continues to decline yield.
To be honest a lack of rain usually result in crops deteriorating and despite worries of grain shortage while rains remain elusive the prices will continue dropping.
Author: Ateev Dang is a trader and trading coach by profession. He runs Glow trades Pty Ltd where he teaches anyone who is interested in starting on their trading journey on how to trade. He can be contacted at adang@glowtrades.com.au.
Disclaimer:
The writers’ opinions in the above article are their own and do not constitute any financial advice whatsoever. Nothing published by The Australia Today constitutes an investment recommendation, nor should any data or content publication be relied upon for any investment activities.
We strongly recommend that you perform your own independent research and/or speak with a financial advisor or qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
Some scholars believed Indigenous Australian Aborigines had settled around 40,000 to 65,000 years ago. They consist of many different tribes with diverse traditional languages, cultures and history that considered land as sacred.
They had faced immense discrimination and mistreatment due to British colonization, which led to cultural loss through violent encounters, diseases, sexual abuses, dislocation and destruction of their sites.
In 1788, the British established their sovereignty by declaring legal Australia as terra nullius, meaning the ‘land belongs to no one. Aboriginal land rights were not recognised by the British and even not given equal rights to British settlers.
This resulted in violent conflicts and resistance shown in an invasion of their land. During this time these indigenous groups were affected by forcible removal, i.e. taking children by force and separating them from their families that led to cultural deprivation.
The legacy of the Colonial era has been racism, injustice and inequality for Aboriginal people. Their resistance and revolts were subsided by the British by adopting a policy of ‘disperse and dispatch’, violent massacres and many others. The colonisers using white racial superior theories of considering aboriginals as ‘doomed race’ gave justification for their ‘civilising mission’.
These Aboriginals saw the colonisation of language and their tradition, compel them to work as forced labour and hardships. They had to go through a government policy between 1869 and 1969 to ‘separate their children from their families and cultures through forced removal, fostering, adoption and institutionalisation to assist with ‘assimilation’’ created a ‘stolen generations’; and faced financial injustice of unequal wages called ‘stolen wages’ and confiscation of their land since the early 1900s (Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland, 2017). These indigenous people have shown their resistance to get their rights.
Protests of Australian Aboriginals
Many Australian Aboriginal groups had boycotted the 26 January (Australia Day) before the 1920s in order to protest the position and treatment of indigenous Australians. Gradually, they became more conscious about the general Australians were unaware of their protest, so they need to show some active action to get the attention. This led to rising of several organisations notably the Australian Aborigines Progressive Association (AAPA, in 1924) and the Australian Aborigines League (AAL in 1932), to give voice to indigenous rights.
Day of Mourning: 1938
Aboriginal Australians demanded equal treatment, rights and status by rallying a protest march through the streets of Sydney in 1938, and this became iconic as it was the world’s first civil rights rallies where thousands of people participated.
They submitted a proposed national policy for Aboriginal people to the Prime Minister, but it was denied again as the government lacked constitutional authority over Aboriginal people. The day became a landmark and inspiration for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders activism that continued to call for a constitutional referendum.
Between 1940 to 1955, the Day of Mourning was known as Aborigines Day and was celebrated annually on the Sunday before Australia Day. This day moved to the first Sunday in July in 1955 that signify a day more than mere protest day but also as a celebration of Aboriginal cultures and histories.
The establishment of the National Aboriginal Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) was backed by many Aboriginal organisations and members of other religious groups and governments.
The second Sunday of July was designated as a day of commemoration of Aboriginal people, their history and their culture.
The referendum came in 1967 and the department of Aboriginal affairs was established in 1972. Later this celebration was extended over from the first to the second Sunday of July.
Gradually, with the rising awareness of different cultural histories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, their committee was renamed as ‘National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) in 1991.
Since the 1990s, a theme was selected to represent the significant issues that were taken up for the entire week as a part of NAIDOC week.
NAIDOC Week 4-11 July 2021
Observed to celebrate the Aboriginal history, culture and achievements, and reflect the protection of Aboriginal rights, sites and cultural heritage.
This week is a popular event to commemorate Aboriginal dance, traditional music, ceremonies, artwork across many cities of Australia.
NAIDOC National Award Ceremony recognise and celebrate the contribution made by indigenous people of Australia; additional, flag hosting of Aboriginals and Torres Strait is also a symbol of unity and diversity.
Contemporary Rights in Question?
Despite formal recognition of their past hurts in the form of ‘Sorry Day’ and ‘National Apology’; are these aboriginals got their deserving rights at ground level? It is a question of research, as many media news has raised issues of continues poverty, inequality and mistreatment of aboriginal Australians in the contemporary world, ‘Australia’s White Media Against People’ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tb-GJhEtSps); ‘This Is Our Country Too!~Documentary On Injustice Of the Aboriginal Australians’ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UPn_1XOxd0).
Despite these odds, NAIDOC Week is a welcome initiative to commemorate Aboriginal’s heritage and culture to establish unity in a multicultural society that leads to peace, unity and harmony.
Author: Dr Sakul Kundra, A.HOD Department of Social Science, College of Humanities and Education, Fiji National University.
West versus the Rest/East: Post-colonialism; Representative picture from @CANVA
Are you still living in colonised World? Has your nation decolonised? Is it a post-colonial world? Why do the neo-colonial ideas are challenging to eradicate?
These questions may not be simple to explain, but it needs elaboration to decipher our own identity and our existing World, especially people of Asian, South American and African continents and Pacific.
Let us begin to explain ‘Post-colonialism that simply meaning ‘after the colonial’ while another similar ambiguous term ‘postcolonialism’ is referred to as re-reading of colonisation writings and literature that has questioned the production of knowledge and discourse in terms of combined social, economic, cultural and political changes brought by the impact of colonialism.
Some scholars understand the end of colonialism that gave way the essential authority, cultural and political freedom, and independence to the indigenous people by removing the political and cultural imperialism.
West versus the Rest/East: Post-colonialism; Representative picture from @CANVA
Postcolonialism is a critical theoretical movement that has interpreted and critically analysed the culture of colonialism and imperialism and the cultural impact of colonialism. It tried to eradicate colonial culture influence and created/realise a sense of self-identity of colonised.
These postcolonial scholars emphasised interpreting the contestation of colonial domination and legacies of colonialism. This critical thought movement emerged in various disciplines like history, philosophy, literature, cultural studies and sociology etc.
let’s summarises the evolution of postcolonialism, relating terminologies and their discourse.
West versus the Rest/East: Post-colonialism; Representative picture from @CANVA
Post-Colonialism or Postcolonialism
There is a debate over defining the terms ‘post-colonialism and ‘postcolonialism’.
Post-colonialism refer to ‘the period after any formerly colonised country took its independence’ or the period that follows after political independence.
In contrast, postcolonialism means the ‘effects and results of any sort of intervention or domination over a country across the time period’ or induce all the complex history and irreversible change suffered by the colonised nation and culture.
Removing of hyphen ‘creates a comparative framework by which to understand the varieties of local resistance to colonial impact’.
Concepts of Postcolonialism
To understand the concept of postcolonialism, one needs to comprehend the terms ‘colonialism’ and ‘imperialism’, although both terms are related to political, power-orientation and suppression of the other.
Colonialism is related to the mission of European political domination over the last 400 years where coloniser involves settlement of colonies and rules over the other regions; whereas Imperialism is related to a system of military domination and sovereignty over other nations without actually any settlement.
West versus the Rest/East: Post-colonialism; Representative picture from @CANVA
It can be understood as a practice where the colonisers establish colonies and settlements for the political and economic benefit of the colonizing country, whereas under imperialism the one country establish influence over the other by military force and power either formally or informally, primarily related to creating an empire and expanding its dominance over other regions.
Edward Said stated ‘“imperialism” means the practice, the theory, and the attitudes of a dominating metropolitan centre ruling a distant territory; “colonialism”, which is almost always a consequence of imperialism, is the implanting of settlements on distant territory’ (Said, 1993). Besides military domination of physical conquest under colonialism, it involves the conquest and occupation of mind, selves and culture.
Similarly, the term is ‘neo-colonialism, which is a new kind of colonialism that supports colonial domination by indirect domination or controlling once colonised nations by implying new kinds of economic, social, political and military systems.
West versus the Rest/East: Post-colonialism; Representative picture from @CANVA
It is believed that neo-colonialism is more difficult to deduct and resist in comparison to traditional colonialism. This indicates all forms of control of former colonies after political independence.
The next term is ‘Decolonization’ simply means a process of getting political-legal freedom from the colonisers, but it also signifies the denial of all imperial impact related to economic, social, political or cultural.
Decolonisation is achieved by different means like revolution, violence and sometimes nonviolence ways.
Another similar term needs explanation is ‘anti-colonialism refers to a ‘political struggle of colonised peoples against the ideology and practice of colonialism’, that was reflected in the diverse way of resistance or opposition to the political, cultural and economic institutions of colonialism in order to restore local control.
Historical discourse: Postcolonialism
This study analyses the manner in which the colonial European powers established control over indigenously developed cultures, and the postcolonialist have equally reacted to and opposed such intrusion.
In other words, it is in a way rejecting the narratives of the West and looking to replace them with counter-narratives to get their own space. This is challenging the Eurocentric norms of literary and artistic values.
This shift in the academia of post-colonial thoughts ranged over four decades from the 1950s till the 1990s that enables the reading of ‘own text on our own terms.’
Historical demarcation of an exact time frame of the postcolonial period is a tedious task. But during the colonial phase, the West distinguishes itself as biologically superior to any other race, which reflected the manner in which colonisers treated the colonised, i.e. forced labour, indentured labour and even slavery.
This established a hegemony where ‘White’ was considered superior to others as subhuman or inferior. The inferiority enforced by the colonisers on colonised in terms of cultural inferiority, identity, social values and psychology.
West versus the Rest/East: Post-colonialism; Representative picture from @CANVA
Gradually, colonised began to get aware of this binary. This led to demand for political, cultural, ethnic freedom and autonomy. This process aggravated when colonisers dominations in all prospective began to disappear in the early phase of the 20th century and gradually, many nations got independence that gave momentum to writings from the third-world countries.
These thoughts majorly came from the formerly colonised nations, especially continents like Asia, Africa and South America; from where mainly the literature produced in the postcolonial world as a literary theory or movement.
These continents went through an anti-colonial struggle and achieved independence. The literature emerging from these former colonies nations is termed postcolonial. Postcolonialism has revived the discourse of nation and nationalism that led to two categorisations the colonisers referred to as ‘West’ whereas the colonised termed as ‘Rest’/’East’.
The postcolonialist coming from former colonies that intent to study the literature of their own nation into the discourse of western academic study. This was a kind of critical reaction to the hierarchy of westerns academia and questions the universal claims of western knowledge and experiences as representatives of mankind.
They highlighted the use of language by the West to establish hegemony and power relations, which helped create a binary ‘we’ vs ‘others’ or ‘us’ vs. ‘them’.
Similarly, various questions are raised by postcolonialist in terms of identity, race, class, ethnicity, gender, discourse, politics, exploitation and resistance against the Western World.
They attempt to represent themselves as an individual in itself rather than ‘white man’s burden’ by identifying the value of their own community or national culture against the foreign hegemony.
Conclusion Postcolonialism provided a counter-narrative to the European imperial narrative, emerging primarily from the formerly colonised countries scholars.
These scholars re-examine the colonial and post-colonial literature, with a prime focus on the social discourse between the coloniser and the colonised that led to the emergence of these writings.
This is our attempt to removed many conceptual errors about these ambiguous terminologies and enlighten the people of the postcolonial World to realise their own identity.
Author: Dr Sakul Kundra, A.HOD Department of Social Science, College of Humanities and Education, Fiji National University.
Representative picture of multicultural workers; Picture Source: @CANVA
The Victorian Government has launched a new initiative to help young and multicultural Victorians overcome barriers in the job market.
The government has set up a team of 27 new dedicated staff to link up culturally diverse job seekers with employers.
Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence announced $3.9 million for this scheme.
According to Minister Spence, Eleven organisations will be supporting Victorians to provide culturally appropriate and individualised support to jobseekers.
Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence; Picture Source: Facebook @RosSpence
This will be done through a network of Community Employment Connectors.
These Community Employment Connectors will start their work supporting jobseekers from July and will help them navigate and connect with employment and training services.
Minister Spence said,
“The Community Employment Connectors will work directly with job-seekers and employers to build the local networks we know are vital to finding sustainable employment.We’re supporting more Victorians into the dignity of a job, while also boosting the pandemic recovery for our whole state.”
This program has a specific focus on young people aged 16-25.
In addition, adults from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who face barriers to securing sustainable employment can also benefit from this initiative.
Representative picture of multicultural workers; Picture Source: @CANVA
The Minister adds:
“Having a job is so important for wellbeing, and the pandemic has increased the barriers already faced by many young and diverse Victorians – so we’re helping them to make those connections.”
The program will provide local solutions to the needs of jobseekers and support the economic recovery for all Victorians going through the pandemic.
Representative picture of multicultural workers; Picture Source: @CANVA
Key organisations include MiCare working in partnership with the Wyndham Community and Education Centre; the Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District; and WEstjustice.
This program will also work in collaboration with the Jobs Victoria Advocates Program to address barriers for jobseekers in local areas.
Indian Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya an Tennis Star Roger Federer
BJP MP Mansukh Mandaviya who has taken over the post of IndianUnion Health Minister in the recent cabinet reshuffle PM Narendra Modi was trolled on social media for his old tweets dating back to 2013-2014.
These trolls flooded the social media platforms, especially Twitter and Facebook, with memes where they attacked and mocked Minister Mandaviya.
On being asked what he thought of people who trolled him on Twitter all day today over his “articulation and language skills,” Minister Mandaviya said:
“I have no comments on that.”
Many prominent netizens and politicians have also come out in support.
Image source: Congress leader Tehseen Poonawalla – Wikipedia
Congress leader Tehseen Poonawalla said:
“Unfortunate to see so many fellow citizens trolling Mansukh Mandaviya ji for his lack of proficiency in English. Critic him on faults wrt his work & Ministry (sic)”.
Image source: MP Priyanka Chaturvedi – Wikipedia.
Shiv Sena leader and Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted:
“If the only criticism you hold against a minister is his proficiency in English rather than his work, it only reflects your shallowness. Just saying.”
Minister Mandaviya belongs to a farming family in Hanol village in Bhavnagar district. He was first elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2012 and re-elected in 2018.
Image source: Prof. Anand Ranganathan – Twitter.
To all those trolls who think it is alright to mock others for proficiency in a language, Prof. Anand Ranganathan’s advice is to leave their colonial mindset and judge people by their work rather than speech.
A few days back tennis great Roger Federer admitted at Wimbledon Tennis press meet that his English is poor.
Noted Indian journalist Aditya Raj Kaul challenged the trolls to attempt reading just five sentences in Hindi.
Those mocking English writing, speaking ability or accent of any Indian should be asked to write five sentences in Hindi and then read them aloud. Or just read a story from Nirmal Verma’s book. Most would give up without even attempting. Get rid of this British colonial baggage.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that COVID-19 lockdown restrictions will be tightened after the state recorded 44 new infections.
This is the highest daily number recorded in the latest outbreak.
Premier says, given the growing number of infectious cases in the community and unlinked cases of community transmission, COVID-19 restrictions will be tightened across Greater Sydney including the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Wollongong and Shellharbour.
From 5 pm today (Friday, 9 July) following additional restrictions will be in place:
Outdoor public gatherings limited to two people (excluding members of the same household);
People must stay in their Local Government Area or within 10kms of home for exercise and outdoor recreation, with no carpooling between non-household members;
Browsing in shops is prohibited, plus only one person per household, per day may leave the home for shopping;
Funerals limited to ten people in total (this will take effect from Sunday, 11 July).
However, the four reasons to leave home remain in place:
Shopping for food or other essential goods and services (one person only);
Medical care or compassionate needs (only one visitor can enter another residence to fulfil carers’ responsibilities or provide care or assistance, or for compassionate reasons);
Exercise with no more than 2 (unless members of the same household);
Essential work, or education, where you cannot work or study from home.
Sydney Lockdown; Picture Source: Twitter
Restrictions in regional NSW will remain unchanged.
These tightened restrictions are based on health advice from the Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant. They are necessary due to the increasing number of unlinked cases in the community.
High testing numbers are key to finding unrecognised chains of transmission in the community, so please continue to come forward for a COVID-19 test, even if you have the mildest of symptoms.
Rashpal Gathwal, the grieving mother of Jasmeen kaur, the young murder victim, has broken her silence three months after her daughter’s death.
Jasmeen originally from Punjab in India, had been living with her aunt and uncle in Adelaide, South Australia, and working as an aged care worker as she studied to become a nurse.
Police allege Jasmeen was “taken by force” by a man after finishing her shift at Southern Cross Homes in North Plympton just before 10pm on March 5.
Jasmeen’s body was found buried in a shallow grave in the Flinders Ranges, 430km from Adelaide. Her ID and shoes were found stuffed in an outback bin.
Image source: Supplied
After three months, Rashpal Gathwal who resides in India has felt strong enough to release a media statement and appeal to the public.
“I regret the day I said yes to sending my daughter to Australia. I didn’t know dropping her at the airport would be the last time I gave her a hug. I miss my daughter everyday.”
Image source: 7NEWS.
South Australia’s Major Crime Detectives are working on the theory that the 21-year-old was kidnapped from her workplace and driven five hours to her gravesite.
Image source: Tarikjot Singh – SA Police
21-year-old Tarikjot Singh, an Indian student, has been charged with her murder.
Tarikjot denies being involved in her death.
Jasmeen’s family has made a fresh plea for witnesses to come forward.
Image source: 9NEWS.
In March, Jasmeen’s family visited the shallow grave where she was buried.
They planted native plants, laid teddies and flowers and prayed.
Her aunt Ramandeep Kharoud told 7NEWS:
“Every detail matters, and it’s going to be helpful to resolve this case.”
Her family now want to be a voice for other victims of violence.
Jasmeen’s aunt Gurjit Bhardwaj told 7NEWS:
“Girls and woman are not safe, we’re not safe out there. We have a right to be out on the street no matter what time it is. Be safe, keep your loved ones close.”
Image source: Jasmeen Kaur – Supplied
Detectives are still hunting for crucial pieces of evidence – Jasmeen’s cream handbag that still remains missing.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expands and reshuffles his council of ministers; Picture Source: PIB
India’s PM Narendra Modi expanded and reshuffled his council of ministers on Wednesday with some ministers dropped and several new faces inducted. The new-look government now has 78 ministers.
This includes 30 cabinet ministers, 2 Ministers of State with Independent Charge, and 45 Ministers of State, apart from the PM himself. The number of MOS with Independent Charge has come down significantly, as most of them have been promoted to cabinet ranks.
Ahead of Union Cabinet expansion, 12 Indian Union Ministers including Ravi Shankar Prasad, Dr Harsh Vardhan, Prakash Javadekar and D.V. Sadananda Gowda have resigned from their posts of Council of Ministers.
As advised by the prime minister, India’s President Ram Nath Kovind has accepted the resignation of 12 ministers.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expands and reshuffles his council of ministers; Picture Source: PIB
According to a release by the President’s Office, among 12 ministers who resigned include Thaawarchand Gehlot, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Babul Supriyo, Dhotre Sanjay Shamrao, Rattan Lal Kataria, Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Sushri Debasree Chaudhuri.
It was the first expansion of the union council of ministers by PM Modi in his second term as Prime Minister.
The swearing-in ceremony, which took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan amid COVID-19 protocols, came days ahead of the monsoon session of parliament.
The seven women MP who took an oath of office on Wednesday are Anupriya Patel, Shobha Karandlaje, Darshana Vikram Jardosh, Meenakshi Lekhi, Annpurna Devi, Pratima Bhoumik and Bharati Pravin Pawar.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expands and reshuffles his council of ministers with Women Ministers; Picture Source: PIB
Forty-three leaders took oath in the first union cabinet expansion and reshuffle of the Modi government in its second term. The rejig saw OBCs, SCs and youth getting more representation.
Senior BJP leaders say an attempt is being made to accommodate various castes and communities in wake of impending assembly elections in crucial states including Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Here is the full list of ministers in the union council of ministers, along with their ministries.
Narendra Modi
Prime Minister and also in-charge of: Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions; Department of Atomic Energy; Department of Space; All important policy issues; and All other portfolios not allocated to any Minister
CABINET MINISTERS
1.
Raj Nath Singh
Minister of Defence
2.
Amit Shah
Minister of Home Affairs; and Minister of Cooperation
3.
Nitin Jairam Gadkari
Minister of Road Transport and Highways
4.
Nirmala Sitharaman
Minister of Finance; and Minister of Corporate Affairs
5.
Narendra Singh Tomar
Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
6.
Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar
Minister of External Affairs
7.
Arjun Munda
Minister of Tribal Affairs
8.
Smriti Zubin Irani
Minister of Women and Child Development
9.
Piyush Goyal
Minister of Commerce and Industry; Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution; and Minister of Textiles
10.
Dharmendra Pradhan
Minister of Education; and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
11.
Pralhad Joshi
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs; Minister of Coal; and Minister of Mines
12.
Narayan Tatu Rane
Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
13.
Sarbananda Sonowal
Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways; and Minister of AYUSH
14.
Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
Minister of Minority Affairs
15.
Dr Virendra Kumar
Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment
16.
Giriraj Singh
Minister of Rural Development; and Minister of Panchayati Raj
17.
Jyotiraditya M. Scindia
Minister of Civil Aviation
18.
Ramchandra Prasad Singh
Minister of Steel
19.
Ashwini Vaishnaw
Minister of Railways; Minister of Communications; and Minister of Electronics and Information Technology
20.
Pashu Pati Kumar Paras
Minister of Food Processing Industries
21.
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
Minister of Jal Shakti
22.
Kiren Rijiju
Minister of Law and Justice
23.
Raj Kumar Singh
Minister of Power; and Minister of New and Renewable Energy
24.
Hardeep Singh Puri
Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas; and Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs
25.
Mansukh Mandaviya
Minister of Health and Family Welfare; and Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers
26.
Bhupender Yadav
Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; and Minister of Labour and Employment
27.
Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey
Minister of Heavy Industries
28.
Parshottam Rupala
Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
29.
G. Kishan Reddy
Minister of Culture; Minister of Tourism; and Minister of Development of North Eastern Region
30.
Anurag Singh Thakur
Minister of Information and Broadcasting; and Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports
MINISTERS OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
1.
Rao Inderjit Singh
Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation; Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Planning; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs
2.
Dr Jitendra Singh
Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science and Technology; Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences; Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office; Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions; Minister of State in the Department of Atomic Energy; and Minister of State in the Department of Space
MINISTERS OF STATE
1.
Shripad Yesso Naik
Minister of State in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism
2.
Faggansingh Kulaste
Minister of State in the Ministry of Steel; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Rural Development
3.
Prahalad Singh Patel
Minister of State in the Ministry of Jal Shakti; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Food Processing Industries
4.
Ashwini Kumar Choubey
Minister of State in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
5.
Arjun Ram Meghwal
Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture
6.
General (Retd.) V. K. Singh
Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation
7.
Krishan Pal
Minister of State in the Ministry of Power; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Heavy Industries
8.
Danve Raosaheb Dadarao
Minister of State in the Ministry of Railways; Minister of State in the Ministry of Coal; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Mines
9.
Ramdas Athawale
Minister of State in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
10.
Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti
Minister of State in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Rural Development
11.
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan
Minister of State in the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
12.
Nityanand Rai
Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs
13.
Pankaj Chaowdhary
Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance
14.
Anupriya Singh Patel
Minister of State in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
15.
Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel
Minister of State in the Ministry of Law and Justice
16.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar
Minister of State in the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
17.
Su Shobha Karandlaje
Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
18.
Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma
Minister of State in the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
19.
Darshana Vikram Jardosh
Minister of State in the Ministry of Textiles; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Railways
20.
V. Muraleedharan
Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
21.
Meenakashi Lekhi
Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture
22.
Som Parkash
Minister of State in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
23.
Renuka Singh Saruta
Minister of State in the Ministry of Tribal Affairs
24.
Rameswar Teli
Minister of State in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour and Employment
25.
Kailash Choudhary
Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
26.
Annpurna Devi
Minister of State in the Ministry of Education
27.
A. Narayanaswamy
Minister of State in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
28.
Kaushal Kishore
Minister of State in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
29.
Ajay Bhatt
Minister of State in the Ministry of Defence; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism
30.
B. L. Verma
Minister of State in the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Cooperation
31.
Ajay Kumar
Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs
32.
Devusinh Chauhan
Minister of State in the Ministry of Communications
33.
Bhagwanth Khuba
Minister of State in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
34.
Kapil Moreshwar Patil
Minister of State in the Ministry of Panchayati Raj
35.
Su Pratima Bhoumik
Minister of State in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
36.
Dr Subhas Sarkar
Minister of State in the Ministry of Education
37.
Dr. Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad
Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance
38.
Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh
Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Education
39.
Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar
Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
40.
Bishweswar Tudu
Minister of State in the Ministry of Tribal Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Jal Shakti
41.
Shantanu Thakur
Minister of State in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
42.
Dr. Munjapara Mahendrabhai
Minister of State in the Ministry of Women and Child Development; and Minister of State in the Ministry of AYUSH
43.
John Barla
Minister of State in the Ministry of Minority Affairs
44.
Dr L. Murugan
Minister of State in the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
45.
Nisith Pramanik
Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Australian Olympic Team Flagbearer Patty Mills and Cate Campbell; Picture Source: Australian Olympics
Creating Australian Olympic history, Patty Mills becomes the first Indigenous Australian to carry the flag at an Opening Ceremony while Cate Campbell becomes the first female swimmer to do so.
In a further historic touch, the pair become the first dual flagbearers to carry the Australian flag – though not the first dual flagbearers. Denise Boyd and Max Metzker led the Australian Team in Moscow in 1980 behind an Olympic flag.
Cate is also only the third flagbearer from swimming, following in the footsteps of Max Metzker (Moscow 1980) and Andrew (Boy) Charlton (Los Angeles 1932).
Patty Mills is the third from basketball joining Lauren Jackson (London 2012) and Andrew Gaze (Sydney 2000).
Both Cate and Patty are attending their fourth Olympic Games, having made their debuts in Beijing in 2008. They will add to the list of 23 Australians who have previously carried the flag at a Summer Games, beginning with George Parker in Antwerp in 1920.
Cate & Patty
Patty Mills says the privilege is hard to wrap his head around.
“As a proud Kokatha, Naghiralgal and Dauareb-Meriam man it’s incredible. A very passionate moment I can feel in my bones. But what does it actually mean to me to be a flag bearer?
“My answer comes from how this particular person in past years, in this role, has impacted me. It’s leadership, representation and It’s insanely meaningful. It’s inspiring. It’s symbolic. It’s emblematic.”
Australian Olympic Team Flagbearer Patty Mills; Picture Source: Australian Olympics
“But I think my honest answer would be, what does it mean to everyone else? What does it mean to the team? What does it mean to everyone in Australia? The thousands of ex-pats living around the world? What does it mean to the next generation? The people that have come before us?
“Because those are the people I proudly represent and will carry the flag for. As the first Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander flag bearer, my connection between our country – the land, the sky, the sea, our culture, our history and this particular moment runs extremely deep.
Cate Campbell says she’s humbled to be selected – a particular honour for these Games.
“It’s always an honour to represent Australia at the Olympics, but this year is even more special.”
Australian Olympic Team Flagbearer Cate Campbell; Picture Source: Australian Olympics
“Twelve months ago, I wasn’t even sure if there would be an Olympics. The postponement threw up so many challenges for everyone. More than ever, the Olympics feels like a celebration of the human spirit; a reminder of what we can achieve if we work together.
“Leading the Australian Team out for these Olympics carries extra significance – everyone one of us, rookies and seasoned Olympians alike, have had to dig deep to earn a spot on this team; and I am incredibly honoured to be leading us out.”
Australian Olympic Team Chef de Mission for Tokyo Ian Chesterman says each athlete offers something unique to the Australian Olympic Team but they also share common traits which influenced his decision making on who would carry the flag.
“Each is a gifted athlete and critically, a natural leader who has the respect of athletes within their chosen sports and beyond. I have no doubt Cate and Patty will have the enthusiastic support of the Australian Olympic Team.
“Equally, they are passionately committed to representing their country and carrying the responsibility that goes with that. Both have their own journeys and stories, but that pride in the green and gold shines through so strongly.
“What also stands out for me is how swiftly each embraced leadership during the difficulty of the pandemic and subsequent postponement of the Tokyo Games. Their compassion for their fellow athletes was immediately evident and quite spontaneous.
“Setting aside their own difficulties, they sought to inspire fellow athletes and the broader community through positive social media and other activities, including playing an important role in athlete welfare initiatives such as the AOC’s Wellbeing Week live program.
“Patty is an inspiration for all Indigenous Australians. He holds culture and country close to his heart as a proud Kokatha man (South Australia) and Naghiralgal and Dauareb-Meriam man (Torres Strait).
Australian Olympic Team Flagbearer Patty Mills; Picture Source: Australian Olympics
“Importantly, he is someone who turns ideas into action. Through his creation of Indigenous Basketball Australia (IBA), there are new opportunities for young Indigenous athletes to forge a successful path in sport and life, embracing their culture and unleashing their potential.”
“And how appropriate when we have a record number of Indigenous athletes representing Australia at these Games in Tokyo, we have such a rousing figure to lead his fellow athletes into this global celebration.
“And who better to share this task than Cate Campbell. Leadership springs not simply from what you say, but ultimately what you do. She is a champion in the pool and out of it.
“A committed contributor to the AOC Athletes’ Commission, Cate has personified those important qualities of resilience and determination. From the time we learned the Tokyo Games were postponed, Cate exuded such calm authority, determined to steer fellow athletes and the broader community through those troubled times,” Mr Chesterman concluded.
Historical Note: There were no Australian Flagbearers for Athens (1896), Paris (1900) and St Louis (1904). In London (1908) and Stockholm (1912), Australia and New Zealand competed as “Australasia” and on both occasions, the Flagbearers were New Zealanders. No Games were held in 1916 due to World War One.
Moods of Dilip Kumar: Picture Source: Twitter @JammuUpdates
Bollywood’s tragedy king Dilip Kumar breathed his last on Wednesday at Mumbai’s PD Hinduja Hospital. The 98-year-old actor passed away due to various age-related ailments.
The news of his demise is confirmed by Dr Jaleel Parkar, Pulmonologist, who was treating the veteran actor. He was admitted to the hospital a few days ago after he complained of breathlessness.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of legendary actor Dilip Kumar, who breathed his last on Wednesday morning.
Taking to Twitter, PM Modi remembered Dilip Kumar as a ‘cinematic legend’. “Dilip Kumar Ji will be remembered as a cinematic legend. He was blessed with unparalleled brilliance, due to which audiences across generations were enthralled,” the tweet read.
“His passing away is a loss to our cultural world. Condolences to his family, friends and innumerable admirers. RIP.”
Dilip Kumar Ji will be remembered as a cinematic legend. He was blessed with unparalleled brilliance, due to which audiences across generations were enthralled. His passing away is a loss to our cultural world. Condolences to his family, friends and innumerable admirers. RIP.
Dilip Kumar’s spokesperson Faisal Farooqi has also shared the sad news on the former’s Twitter handle. “With a heavy heart and profound grief, I announce the passing away of our beloved Dilip Saab, a few minutes ago. We are from God and to Him, we return,” Farooqi tweeted.
The multiple-award-winning actor’s career spanned over more than five decades and during the golden era of Hindi cinema, Dilip Kumar charmed millions of hearts with his performance in more than 65 films. He was also popularly known as the First Khan of Bollywood. Born as Muhammad Yusuf Khan in Peshawar, Pakistan, he began his acting career with the screen name, Dilip Kumar.
Dilip Kumar holds the record for winning the maximum number of Filmfare awards. He was the inaugural recipient of the award and won the best actor Filmfare Award eight times. In his five-decade-long career, he contributed to Hindi cinema in different ways, including the introduction of the method acting technique.
His first few films, including his Bollywood debut ‘Jwar Bhata’, which was released in 1944, could not strike a chord with the audiences. But his scintillating performance in ‘Jugnu’ in the year of Indian Independence, 1947, won hearts, making the film his first major hit.
Born on December 11, 1922, Dilip Kumar was one among 12 siblings. The yesteryear actor completed his schooling at the Barnes School, Deolali, Nashik, where he grew up in a mixed neighbourhood. His childhood friend Raj Kapoor, too, later became his colleague in the film industry.
— Vibhuti Narayan Mishra (@Rofl_Vibhu) July 7, 2021
After running a sandwich stall at Pune’s Army Club in 1943, Dilip Kumar wanted to establish a business in Mumbai to contribute to the household income and help his father. His father was a fruit merchant and a landlord who owned orchards in Peshawar and Deolali near Nashik.
But fate had other plans: at the Church gate Station in Mumbai, Dilip Kumar met Dr Masani, who introduced him to actor Devika Rani, then owner of the renowned film studio in Malad, Bombay Talkies, which has now been shut down.
Earlier, Dilip Kumar used to help in the scripting and story-writing department because of his proficiency in the Urdu language. It was upon Devika Rani’s request that Muhammed Yusuf Khan changed his professional name to Dilip Kumar. He then embarked on his acting career with Bombay Talkies in the movie ‘Jwar Bhata.’
In his autobiography ‘The Substance and the Shadow’, he recalled, “I had no clue what acting in front of a camera was. It was something to be studied, learned, and practised.” During his stint at Bombay Talkies, he met actor Ashok Kumar, who was a star back then. From Ashok Kumar, he learnt that acting was not about being theatrically bombastic, which was the popular trend in those times.
After ‘Jugnu’, he starred in a couple of more hits — ‘Shaheed’ and ‘Mela’– before finally landing his breakthrough role in Mehboob Khan’s ‘Andaz’.
The actor was known for his careful selection of scripts and it was evident why Dilip Kumar was more than just an actor, writer, filmmaker, poet, or philosopher. His erudition helped him to stand out and evolve a new method of acting. The dignified silences, the thoughtful pauses, and his poetic dialogue delivery were hallmarks of his understated style.
The 1949 film ‘Andaz’ saw Dilip Kumar, starring alongside two other golden stars of that era – Raj Kapoor and Nargis.
Although he had some major hits in the 1940s, it was in the 1950s that he tasted real success for the first time with a string of hits: ‘Babul,’ ‘Devdas,’ ‘Hulchul,’ ‘Yahudi,’ ‘Daag,’ ‘Sairat,’ ‘Naya Daur,’ and ‘Deedar’. These were the classic tragedy films that gave Dilip Kumar the title of ‘The Tragedy King.’
Though he was a teetotaller himself, in ‘Devdas’ he captured the essence of the self-destructive man driven by unrequited love to become a drunkard. He portrayed the grief of his character Devdas, through his hazy eyes and eloquent silences.
It was the social drama ‘Daag’ that won the legendary star his first ever Filmfare Award in the main category of the lead actor, also making him the inaugural recipient of the award at the time of its inception in 1954.
After that, he won the prestigious award several times and to date continues to hold the record for the maximum Filmfare wins with his eight Black Lady trophies. He shared the position with superstar Shah Rukh Khan who also has eight Filmfare Awards to his credit. Though tragedy movies brought him great success on the professional front, Dilip Kumar got so involved in the characters he portrayed that it affected his mental health giving him bouts of depression.
After that, on the suggestion of a psychiatrist, he went on to do a few light-hearted roles. He started with Mehboob Khan’s ‘Aan’, which was also his first film shot in technicolour. Though the actor tried to work in different genres to do away with the tag of ‘The Tragedy King’, his epic portrayals in these films have been so etched in the minds of his fans that he is to date remembered with this title only.
He played several lighter roles before finally landing the lead role of Prince Salim in the big-budget magnum opus ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ in 1960 which went on to be re-released in the full-colour format in 2004, 44 years after its original release.
In 1961, the late actor also became a film producer, bankrolling and starring in the film ‘Ganga Jamuna’ alongside actor Vyjayanthimala, though he did not produce any other film thereafter. The movie, which itself had elements borrowed from ‘Mother India’, later became the precursor for several other films, where one brother becomes an outlaw and the other is a policeman.
Dilip Kumar excelled in his performance as a rustic villager who was forced to become a dacoit due to circumstances. Made in rural dialect, the film retained those flavours in its music and lyrics.
He delivered a few more terrific portrayals in the 1960s, which include his dual role in ‘Ram Aur Shyam,’ Waheeda Rehman starrer ‘Aadmi,’ and superhit flick ‘Sunghursh’, in which he again starred opposite Vyjayanthimala.
The year 1966 marked the legendary actor’s marriage with the then Bollywood diva Saira Banu who was 22 years younger than him. Before marrying Saira Banu, Dilip Kumar had been in a relationship with the queen of elegance Madhubala. He was also linked with Bollywood beauties like Kamini Kaushal and Vyjayanthimala.
Lovingly known as Dilip Saab, he was one of the most sought-after celebrities by women. It is said his popularity amongst women was so immense that they used to stand in front of his car, wishing to be run over.
On the day of his engagement, a girl from the industry, who was his supposed girlfriend, reportedly took sleeping pills. Dilip Kumar had to make her understand that he was in love with Saira Banu. It was only after she was pacified that he returned to his engagement ceremony.
After several back-to-back successes, Dilip Kumar went through a career slump in the 1970s, with only a couple of movies like ‘Bairaag’ and ‘Gopi’ performing well at the box office. In ‘Gopi’ he starred alongside his real-life wife, Saira Banu.
Dilip Kumar then took a five-year-long hiatus from films, lasting from the year 1976 to 1981. It was in 1981 that he made a comeback with the multi-starrer flick ‘Kranti’, playing a central role among the ensemble cast, which included names like Shashi Kapoor, Shatrughan Sinha, Manoj Kumar and Hema Malini.
After playing the titular role of a revolutionary fighting for the independence of India, he then starred in the 1982 ‘Vidhata’ directed by Subhash Ghai with stars like Shammi Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt and Sanjeev Kumar among the cast.
Featuring with Amitabh Bachchan in the 1982 super-hit ‘Shakti’ directed by Ramesh Sippy, he won his eighth and last Filmfare Award for the best actor. His next film, the 1984 social crime drama ‘Mashal’ directed by Yash Chopra was a failure at the box office, though his performance was critically acclaimed.
Later he also appeared alongside Rishi Kapoor in the 1984 ‘Duniya’ and with Jeetendra in ‘Dharm Adhikari’, which was released in 1986.
In 1986, he again collaborated with Subhash Ghai for the ensemble action movie ‘Karma’. He was paired for the first time with the veteran actor Nutan, though they had earlier collaborated three decades ago in an incomplete film named ‘Shikwa’. He was again paired opposite Nutan for the 1989 ‘Kanoon Apna Apna’.
Dilip starred in the 1991 film ‘Saudagar’ along with veteran actor Raaj Kumar, which later turned out to be his last phenomenal success at the box office and also his last collaboration with director Subhash Ghai.
In recognition of his contribution to the film industry for over five decades, he was conferred the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994. In the same year, he was honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award and was later conferred the Padma Vibhushan in 2015.
To mark an official comeback for the actor, film producer Sudhakar Bokade announced the movie ‘Kalinga’ in 1992, but the film got delayed for several years and was eventually shelved. His last appearance in the movies was in the film titled ‘Qila’ which was released in 1998.
After his acting career came to an end, Dilip was nominated to the upper house of parliament through the Indian National Congress. He served as a Rajya Sabha MP from Maharashtra from 2000 to 2006.
Besides acting and politics, the star has also undertaken humanitarian work. While serving as a Rajya Sabha MP, he used his MPLAD fund for improving the gardens of Bandra Fort and Bandstand Promenade.
Dilip Kumar was a flame carrier who took Bollywood to heights it had never been before. Living many lives in a lifetime, his persona could never be replaced by anyone else. Poetry and poise are the words that are synonymous with the name Dilip Kumar. No other actor has spent such a long life in the public eye and yet retained an everlasting positive image in the mind of the audiences.
Whether it was his alleged love affairs with Madhubala and Kamini Kaushal, his first marriage, or other controversies like the Nishan-E- Imtiaz award (Pakistan’s highest civilian award) in 1993, which even raised questions about his patriotism, he handled all of that with grace and maturity.
One of the early stars of Bollywood, he rose to a level of prominence never achieved in Indian cinema before. A role model for many, a star, a legend, and the king of the golden era of cinema, Dilip Kumar has left behind a legacy for many acting enthusiasts to enjoy and learn from.
The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria has called on the Victorian state government to declare a new public holiday for all Victorians to fall on the Friday of NAIDOC Week to align with the March each year.
NAIDOC Week is an annual occasion of remembrance and resistance that has evolved into a national celebration of community, cultures and Country, alongside our collective resilience and survival as custodians of the world’s oldest continuous living cultures.
It was around the 1920s time when the powerful advocacy of Uncle William Cooper, including his landmark 1935 petition to King George V, called specifically for designated Aboriginal electorates in the Federal Parliament.
This is why a public holiday of remembrance and celebration of Aboriginal histories and cultures would be best placed in this week.
The theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week is Heal Countrywhich speaks to the inherent rights our Traditional Owners possess to care for ‘Country’ across the nation. Exercising these rights is essential for First Nation people to protect, celebrate and heal.
Every year, it becomes more difficult for anyone to argue that January 26 is the most appropriate and inclusive date for a national celebration. It’s acknowledged as a day of hurt and mourning for Aboriginal people – a reminder of a violent legacy of discrimination and dispossession, and their apparent inability as a society to move forward together in healing.
The Assembly has made every effort to practise what they preach. They have declared this Friday 9 July of NAIDOC Week a day of leave for all their staff – both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal – and their elected Members to join in the celebrations and reflect on their past as they work towards a brighter future.
They want to encourage the Victorian Government, and all Victorian businesses, organisations, and employers to follow their lead and do the same.
Greater Sydney lockdown extended till 16 July, says Premier Gladys Berejiklian: Picture Source: The Australia Today
NSW recorded 27 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8 pm last night.
Of these locally acquired cases, 18 are linked to a known case or cluster – seven are household contacts and 11 are close contacts – and the source of infection for nine cases remains under investigation.
There are 25 cases that are unlinked to a known case or cluster. Currently, 37 COVID-19 cases admitted to the hospital, with seven people in intensive care, two of whom require ventilation.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced, “Stay at home orders apply to Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour until 11.59 pm on Friday 16 July 2021.”
“Rules and restrictions apply to people who live in, usually work in, or usually attend a university or other tertiary education facility in Greater Sydney. Additional restrictions will also apply across the rest of NSW to protect the community from COVID-19.”
The total number of cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic is 5,836.
There have been 357 locally acquired cases reported since 16 June 2021, among them are 264 cases directly linked to known cases in the Bondi cluster.
NSW COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics:
Cases
Count
Confirmed cases (including interstate residents in NSW health care facilities)
5,836
Deaths (in NSW from confirmed cases)
56
Total tests carried out
7,295,386
Total vaccinations administered in NSW
2,474,124
Everyone in Greater Sydney must stay home unless you have a reasonable excuse.
Stay at home rules apply if you were in Greater Sydney, including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour on or after Monday 21 June 2021,
You must follow the stay at home rules for 14 days from the date you left the area.
Overseas arrivals and people who have quarantined
You do not need to follow the stay at home rules for 14 days after leaving Greater Sydney if
you have quarantined (at a residence, hotel quarantine or medical facility) and completed your 14 days in isolation in Greater Sydney
you leave Greater Sydney (including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour) as soon as possible after the end of your isolation period
you travel out of Greater Sydney by a private vehicle (not public transport, taxi or ride share) by the most direct route possible or you travel directly to Sydney Airport and fly out of Greater Sydney
you do not enter any premises in Greater Sydney, where possible
you wear a mask and stay 1.5 metres away from any other person while in Greater Sydney
you get a COVID-19 test 2 days after leaving isolation.
Reasonable excuse to leave home
A reasonable excuse is if you need to
obtain food or other goods and services
for the personal needs of the household or for other household purposes (including pets)
for vulnerable people
if the food or goods and services are not available in the local government area that you live in
travel for work or education if it is not possible to do it at home
exercise and take outdoor recreation in Greater Sydney
go out for medical or caring reasons, including obtaining a COVID-19 vaccination
donate blood
access childcare
continue existing arrangements for access to, and contact between, parents and children
attend a funeral
provide care or assistance (including personal care) to a vulnerable person or to provide emergency assistance
access social services, employment services, services provided to victims (including as victims of crime), domestic violence services, and mental health services
move to a new place of residence, or between your different places of residence
undertake legal obligations
avoid injury or illness or to escape the risk of harm
in case of emergencies
for compassionate reasons, including where two people are in a relationship but do not necessarily live together
to provide pastoral care if you are a priest, minister of religion or member of a religious order.
Taking a holiday is not a reasonable excuse.
Face masks
The requirement to wear a face mask in all indoor areas of non-residential premises that was recently applied in Greater Sydney has been extended to all of NSW.
As well as wearing a face mask in all indoor areas, you must also wear a face mask
at certain outdoor gatherings
if you are on public transport
in a major recreation facility such as a stadium or
if you are working in a hospitality venue.
Visiting Greater Sydney
A person must not enter Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour without a reasonable excuse.
Reasonable excuses for entering the area also includes
returning to your home if you live in Greater Sydney
travelling to Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour from another place in NSW to get vaccinated if you meet the requirements.
You cannot take a holiday in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour.
Visitors to a residence
If you are in Greater Sydney, you must comply with the stay at home rules. If you want to visit another person you will need a reasonable excuse to be away from your place of residence.
A visitor does not include a person at the place of residence who is there
for work or attend a university or other tertiary education facility
for childcare
as a carer
to provide care or assistance to a vulnerable person
to give effect to arrangements between parents and children under 18 or their siblings
to assist a person to move places of residence
to avoid an injury or serious risk of harm
because of an emergency
for compassionate reasons
to view or inspect property to lease or purchase it.
Working from home
All of NSW
Employers must allow an employee to work from home if it is reasonably practicable to do so.
If you cannot work from home and you go to your workplace, you must wear a face mask (unless an exemption applies).
Children and parenting
Under the stay at home rules, accessing childcare is considered a reasonable excuse to leave your home.
Vacation care and childcare will continue in Greater Sydney and throughout NSW.
If your child is booked to attend a vacation camp or other activities during the holiday period, contact the operator for any changes to arrangements.
Services may be live-streamed from a church, meeting house, mosque, synagogue, temple or other places of worship that is not open to members of the public.
You can attend the premises if you are directly involved in the service or the operation of the equipment for the Livestream event. Find out about the rules that apply to singing in a place of public worship during a live-streamed event.
The place of worship must not be open to members of the public.
Weddings
From 28 June 2021 onwards, you will not be able to:
enter Greater Sydney to hold or attend a wedding
leave your place of residence to attend a wedding if you live in, usually work in, or usually attend a university or other tertiary education facility in Greater Sydney.
Funerals
Funerals can continue to take place in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour with up to 100 people.
Attending a funeral of up to 100 people is a reasonable excuse to leave home and to enter Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour.
Outdoor gatherings
Greater Sydney
If you are in the Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour, you must not participate in an outdoor public gathering of more than 10 people, unless you are:
working or attending a university or other tertiary education facility
providing care or assistance to vulnerable persons
gathering with your household
gathering for a funeral
providing emergency assistance to a person
fulfilling a legal obligation
moving home or moving your business to a new premises.
Exemptions
The following gatherings are also exempt from the 10 person outdoor gathering limit:
gathering at an airport
transportation including vehicles, truck stops, stations, platforms and stops but not including vehicles being used as a party bus
hospitals or other medical or health service facilities
emergency services
prisons, correctional facilities, youth justice centres or other places of custody
However, no community sport (whether training or a match) in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour should proceed.
If you are staying in temporary accommodation in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour – including in short-term or holiday accommodation – you may stay at your accommodation until your booking expires.
When your booking expires, you may leave your accommodation to return to
your place of residence or
other accommodation.
While you are staying here, you must continue to comply with the stay at the home direction.
Places that are closed
Greater Sydney
The following places in Greater Sydney are directed to be closed to the public.
Pubs and registered clubs except for
selling food or beverages for people to consume off-site and
providing accommodation, including allowing food and drinks to be consumed in a person’s room.
Food and drink premises, except for
selling food or beverages for people to consume off-site
selling food to be consumed in a person’s room if in a hotel or motel
if the premises are part of a shopping centre, selling food or beverages for people to consume outside of the shopping centre
holding a funeral in accordance with relevant restrictions.
Entertainment facilities, such as theatres, cinemas, music halls, concert halls and dance halls.
Amusement centres, such as places to play billiards, pool, pinball machines or video games.
Micro-breweries or small distilleries holding a drink on-premises authorisation under the Liquor Act 2007 or cellar door premises, except for selling food or beverages for people to consume off the premises.
Indoor recreation facilities such as squash courts, indoor swimming pools, gyms, table tennis centres, health studios, bowling alleys and ice rinks.
Places of public worship, except for the purposes of conducting a funeral service.
permanent residents or other people who have no other place of permanent residence, and their visitors
people who were staying there on Friday 25 June 2021 and have not extended their booking
local workers and overnight travellers.
Sex on premises services
Sex services premises
Strip clubs
Public swimming pools (except natural swimming pools, which may open)
National Trust properties and Historic Houses Trust of NSW properties (other than retail shops)
Nightclubs
Casinos, except for selling food or beverages for people to consume off-site and providing accommodation, including allowing food and drinks to be consumed in a person’s room.
Exemptions
Your premises may stay open if it is
used to provide a service to vulnerable people (such as a food bank or homeless shelter)
an early education and care facility
used for a funeral of 100 people or less.
If your premises is permitted to stay open under the public health order, you must follow the rules in place including
The following activities must not take place in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour.
Auctions that people attend in person.
Open inspections of properties, although inspections may be conducted by private appointment for one person only.
If you are a real estate agent or a prospective purchaser and you live in, usually work in, or usually attend a university or other tertiary education facility in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour, you must follow the stay at home rules.
If you are a real estate agent or a prospective purchaser and you do not live in, usually work in, or usually attend a university or other tertiary education facility in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour, the NSW rules apply.
NSW Health administered 20,564 COVID-19 vaccines in the 24 hours to 8 pm last night, including 7,135 at the vaccination centre at Sydney Olympic Park.
The total number of vaccines administered in NSW is now 2,474,124, with 962,785 doses administered by NSW Health to 8 pm last night and 1,511,339 administered by the GP network and other providers to 11.59 pm on Monday 5 July.
Representative picture of Restaurant Kitchen hand; Picture Source: @CANVA
The Fair Work Ombudsman has secured a total of $309,750 in penalties in court in response to a migrant employee being underpaid for almost $70,000 and records being falsified at a Melbourne restaurant.
The penalty was imposed in response to the company contravening workplace laws by underpaying a working visa holder $69,321 and knowingly making and keeping false records and providing them to the Fair Work Ombudsman during its investigation.
Fair Work Inspectors investigated after the employee contacted the FWO. Inspectors found the employee had regularly worked 60 hours per week as a kitchen hand at the restaurant but had been paid between only $700 and $1060 per week.
This resulted in underpayment of the ordinary hourly rates, overtime rates, and weekend and public holiday rates the employee was entitled to under the Restaurant Industry Award 2010. Annual leave entitlements, superannuation and a split shift allowance were also underpaid.
Representative picture of Restaurant Kitchen hand; Picture Source: @CANVA
The company, director and bookkeeper made full admissions in relation to the contraventions alleged against them, and the parties jointly agreed to a penalty range for the admitted contraventions.
The Fair Work Ombudsman also submitted in court that the significant penalties were appropriate due to the serious nature of the contraventions and because the restaurant industry has consistently been recognised as notorious for underpayment of employees, particularly vulnerable migrant workers.
Picture Source: Fair Work Ombudsman
The Federal Circuit Court has imposed a $249,000 penalty against the China Bar Buffet (Epping) Pty Ltd, which operated the China Bar Signature restaurant and China Bar Express fast food outlet in Epping.
In addition, the company’s sole director, Siak Kong Chi, was penalised $41,250 and bookkeeper Ying Lee, of the ‘China Bar Group’, was penalised $19,500, for their involvement in some of the contraventions by the company.
Representative picture of Restaurant Kitchen hand; Picture Source: @CANVA
Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker said improving workplace compliance in the fast food, restaurant and catering sector and protecting migrant workers remain priorities for the FWO.
“The penalties in this matter send a clear message that paying low, flat rates that undercut Award entitlements and trying to mislead Fair Work inspectors is completely unacceptable conduct that will not be tolerated.”
“We treat matters relating to migrant workers particularly seriously and we are also focused on taking action to improve compliance in the restaurant and fast-food sector.”
Representative picture of Restaurant Kitchen hand; Picture Source: @CANVA
“All workers in Australia have the same rights at work, regardless of citizenship or visa status, and we urge any workers with concerns to contact us,” Ms Parker said.
The underpayment amount was rectified in full by the company only after FWO commenced legal action.
Inspectors were also provided with false records showing inaccurate hours of work and payments made to the employee and other employees at the China Bar Express fast food outlet.
Judge Patrizia Mercuri said she placed little weight on submissions by the company, Mr Chi and Ms Li that they did not fully understand their obligations under workplace laws and that Mr Chi’s poor English created difficulty.
Representative picture of Restaurant Kitchen hand; Picture Source: @CANVA
“(The company) not only failed to provide the employee with his entitlements, and failed to maintain accurate records which would have assisted in the investigation phase, but actually maintained records which (Mr Chi), as the directing mind and will of (the company), knew were false and misleading,” Judge Mercuri said.
Judge Mercuri noted that Mr Chi remains involved in various food and beverage businesses.
Employers and employees can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance about their rights and obligations in the workplace. A free interpreter service is available on 13 14 50.
Information for the fast food, restaurant and café sector is available at www.fairwork.gov.au/frac.
Note: Since the Fair Work Ombudsman commenced proceedings against the company and others, the company licensed out the operation of China Bar Signature restaurant to an unrelated entity. The Fair Work Ombudsman makes no allegations against the current operators of the China Bar Signature restaurant.
The Fair Work Ombudsman also makes no allegations against the unrelated entity that operated China Bar Signature for the period 19 September 2016 to 16 October 2016.
Vidya Balan Firing Range; Picture Source: Twitter- Indian Army
In recognition of Vidya Balan’s phenomenal contribution to Indian cinema, the Indian Army has recently named one of its firing ranges after the versatile actor.
The Vidya Balan Firing Range is located in Gulmarg, Kashmir.
Earlier this year, Vidya along with her husband Siddharth Roy Kapur had even attended the Gulmarg Winter Festival organised by the Indian Army.
Vidya Balan’s contribution to Indian cinema
Vidya was touted to be one of the revolutionary actresses in Bollywood in the early 2000s for her female-led projects, the national award-winning actress started her career in 1995 inHum Paanch.
Vidya Balan Firing Range; Picture Source: Twitter- Indian Army
After appearing in the Bengali movie Bhalo Theko, she made her Bollywood debut with Parineeta.
Movies like Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Heyy BabyyandBhool Bhulaiyaacatapulted the actress’s fame in Bollywood and made her one of the most sought-after actors in the industry. With consecutive successful movies like Paa, Ishqiya,No One Killed Jessica and Kahaani, the actress bagged a National Award for her role in The Dirty Picture.
Vidya Balan Firing Range; Picture Source: Twitter- Indian Army
Several social media users have shared the same news on Instagram and Twitter. However, Vidya has not posted anything about it yet.
Also, a few days ago, it was announced that she has been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the governing body behind the Oscars.
Vidya Balan Firing Range; Picture Source: Twitter- Indian Army
Speaking of Vidya’s recent work projects, she is currently being lauded for her stellar performance in Amazon Prime Video’s ‘Sherni’, wherein she essays the character of Vidya Vincent- an upright forest officer.
The character powers through the brutal beasts of social barriers set by the patriarchal society and the lackadaisical attitudes within her department.
Medical repatriation of Arshdeep Singh; Picture Source: GK Manjit Singh
Arshdeep Singh, a 25-year-old international student studying in Australia was diagnosed with a life-threatening condition.
In an extraordinary effort, Australian and Indian governments coordinated and facilitated the medical repatriation of Arshdeep Singh, who is suffering from chronic renal failure, He reached New Delhi on Monday night.
He was received by his family members and Sikh leader Manjit Singh GK along with other officials. Flight no 111 from Darwin operated by Qantas was used for airlifting him.
Qantas Airlines didn’t charge even a single dollar as everyone involved in the medical repatriation did their best to help the family.
Qantas flew a special plane to India with Arshdeep Singh along with a medical team. Arshdeep landed in New Delhi at 18:10 hrs local time. After his arrival, he was shifted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram for further treatment.
His family members thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Minister of External Affairs, S Jaishankar and the Australian Federal government for their efforts.
Arshdeep’s Mother Inderjeet Kaur was in shock since she knew about his illness thousands of kilometres away from home.
She Said,
“I’m speechless, I want to thank the Indian government, Prime Minister Modi, the Australian government, Australian doctors who started the dialysis treatment. Almighty’s grace was there. I’m thankful to all those who helped bring my child to me.”
Especially, I want to thank Qantas Airlines. When I got to know about the news about my son’s illness, I was in shock, it was my worst day. I don’t have words to express,” Mrs Kaur added.
Brother-in-law of Arshdeep Singh, Kunwar Anand called the situation shocking and said the family was not able to handle visa and flights related issues during the COVID pandemic.
Medical repatriation of Arshdeep Singh; Picture Source: GK Manjit Singh
“That situation was shocking and we were not able to handle it. We didn’t have visas so we decided to apply. We couldn’t travel to Australia since flights were not operating.”
Many commercial flights refused to bring back Arshdeep as COVID restrictions were in place in both countries. At this point in time, the Australian government played a very big role in medical repatriation.
“I want to thank the Australian government, their doctors for providing the best treatment to Arshdeep. We don’t have any words on the ordeal which we faced,” Kunwar Anand said.
Former President, Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee shared a video that shows Arshdeep travelling alone on the flight along with his medical equipment.
Manjit Singh GK said, “He is the only son, on June 8th he walks into the hospital and within 1-2 days, they got the news that there was a renal failure, his kidneys were not functioning. His heart is only 20 per cent with an ejection fraction. The family were in a state of shock and we have no place to go because there was COVID going on. Hospital also suggested an organ transplant. This is a very serious case.”
Medical repatriation of Arshdeep Singh; Picture Source: GK Manjit Singh
“Our government was kind enough to approach the Australian Government, the mother was given a visa on June 17th, but there were no flights operating. Arshdeep’s condition was deteriorating every day. Then we requested the Australian Government to send Arshdeep back to India so that he can get the treatment,” GK added.
India-born Sirisha Bandla to fly into space; Picture Source: Twitter: Sirisha Bandla
Indian-origin astronaut, Sirisha Bandla will be taking care of the researcher experience on the Unity22 mission, when a Virgin Galactic test flight travels to the edge of space on July 11.
The Indian state of Andhra Pradesh born Ms Bandla will be one of the six space travellers aboard ‘VSS Unity’ of Virgin Galactic, scheduled to take off to space on July 11 from New Mexico alongside the founder of Virgin Galactic Richard Branson.
Six space travellers aboard ‘VSS Unity’ Picture Source: Twitter @virgingalactic
The Telugu woman hailing from Andhra Pradesh’s Guntur district was brought up in Houston. She will become the second India-born woman to fly into space after Kalpana Chawla.
Rakesh Sharma and Sunita Williams were the other people of Indian origin who went into space prior to Ms Bandla.
Taking to Twitter, the 34-year-old aeronautical engineer shared she was “incredibly honoured” to be part of the crew.
“I am so incredibly honoured to be a part of the amazing crew of Unity22, and to be a part of a company whose mission is to make space available to all,” she posted.
Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also shared two pictures – one featuring all five members of the crew and a solo photo of Sirisha Bandla on his official Twitter handle.
“Indian-origin women continue to break the proverbial glass ceiling and prove their mettle. On July 11th, Sirisha Bandla with Telugu roots is set to fly to space aboard VSS Unity with Richard Branson and the team marking the dawn of the new space age, making all Indians proud!” Mr Naidu tweeted.
UK billionaire and founder of the Virgin Galactic company Richard Branson announced on June 2 that he will make a space flight on July 11, earlier than Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
“I’ve always been a dreamer. My mum taught me to never give up and to reach for the stars. On July 11, it’s time to turn that dream into a reality aboard the next @VirginGalactic spaceflight,” Branson tweeted.
The company confirmed the information and published a video, presenting six crew members of the next space flight, including Bandla.
“Join us July 11th for our first fully crewed rocket-powered test flight and the beginning of a new space age. The countdown begins,” the company wrote on its Twitter page.
Dr Ragaiah, the grandfather of Sirisha who lives in India said, She is brave, strong in decision making, and has been fascinated by the sky from the beginning.
“I, along with my friends and relatives, wish her a successful and happy return to the land after completion of her journey,” Dr Ragaiah said while speaking to media in Andhra Pradesh’s Guntur district.
Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and his wife Kiran Rao announced a divorce in a joint statement, in Mumbai on Saturday. Picture Source: Twitter
A day after announcing their divorce, Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao shared a video message for fans that said the two are now in a happy space and still consider each other a part of the same family.
“Aap logo ko dukh bhi hua hoga, achcha nahi laga hoga, shock laga hoga. Hum bas itna apko kehna chahte hai ki hum log dono bohot khush hai aur hum ek hi parivaar hai (You all must be shocked by the news. We just want to tell you that we are very happy and we are a part of one family),” Aamir said.
The couple, who had been married for 15 years, share a son Azad Rao Khan together.
They also issued a joint statement on Saturday making the announcement, revealed that they will continue to be co-parents for their son Azad. Aamir and Kiran’s joint statement read,
“In these 15 beautiful years together we have shared a lifetime of experiences, joy and laughter, and our relationship has only grown in trust, respect and love. Now we would like to begin a new chapter in our lives – no longer as husband and wife, but as co-parents and family for each other.”
The ‘Ghajini’ star also opened up on the status of the Paani Foundation. For the unversed, Paani Foundation, which is active in drought prevention and watershed management, was founded by Aamir and Kiran a few years ago.
Maharashtra, July 03 (ANI): Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and his wife Kiran Rao announced divorce after 15 years of marriage in a joint statement, in Mumbai on Saturday. (ANI Photo)
Paani Foundation is like our son, Azad, for us. We will always be family. Please pray for our happiness. This is all we wanted to say,” he added.
The two can be seen holding each other’s hands in the clip, which is doing the rounds on the Internet. The clip is an excerpt from the former couple’s recent interview with one of the media professionals.
Australian shares ended the turbulent week flat last week as virus cases surged in most of Australia. The market however received a boost on Friday after Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a four-phase plan to reopen the economy from virus led lockdowns.
The announcement by the Australian Prime Minister in regards to reopening plan, where each phase requires a new vaccine milestone to be hit with a focus of suppressing Covid19 to a stage where it could be managed like any other infectious disease like the flu was seen as a positive even though many analysts agreed that at current vaccine rollout rate it may take forever to achieve.
PM Scott Morrison; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Even though the milestones for each phase have not yet been set and will require modelling from epidemiologists and vaccine experts, the traders seem to have set aside the confusion and frustration surrounding the nation’s handling of pandemic and vaccine rollout and look set to hold up its upbeat mood.
Last week also marked the close of the Australian Financial year. The Financial year 2020-21 marked the best year for Australian shares since 1987. However, the mood was impacted in the end by the rising coronavirus cases in Australia.
Surging oil prices also helped provide a boost to the energy sector with most energy stocks continuing to do well last week. Telstra also had a strong weekly gain last week rising 0.8% to $3.79.
Oil price going up; Picture Source: @Canva
It was shared in English language testing IDP education though that rose by more than 20% after they announced that they will be the sole distributor of IELTS tests in a booming Indian market.
This week we are keeping a close eye on Carsales.com and Domain Holdings as the continuous rise in house and strong demands in car sales provide a boost to these companies.
Having said that, however, all eyes will be on the number of COVID positive cases in Sydney this week. With Australia’s daily vaccination rate remaining low at 0.4% of the population it has left the nation more vulnerable to the latest outbreaks which started in Sydney and Brisbane and spread to other states.
From previous observations, the snap lockdowns have resulted in a rapid bounce back in economic activities due to pent up demands. The long lockdowns on the other hand will have a much wider and deeper impact and may require more economic assistance at the Federal level.
NSW especially is at a bigger risk having started the lockdown a bit later than what virologists suggest as an ideal scenario given the Delta variant, however, the good news is in some of the cases the lockdowns are ending or being wound back.
Gold prices climbed up last week as an increase in the unemployment rate in the USA for the month of June to 5.9% from 5.8% eased concerns about Fed tapering with interest rates any time sooner.
Even though US non-farm payroll numbers showed that there were 850,000+ jobs added in the US instead of the expected 720,000+ the spread was uneven with most job gains being in the hospitality and leisure sector as they return from the pandemic. The labour market in other sectors however was not strong enough to stroke fears that the US Federal Reserve will taper with the rates.
Australian Gold; Picture Source: @CANVA
With Fed tapering fears easing the investors moved back into gold pushing the price higher.
Oil prices continued to rally for the sixth week as OPEC countries and Russia, collectively known as OPEC+, again delayed a decision about removing output curbs that were put in place during the pandemic to stabilise oil prices.
The OPEC+ nations continue to raise concerns about the need to maintain the balance between the impact of variants of the coronavirus in parts of the world and the higher demand in economies that emerge from lockdowns and stay-at-home protocols.
An uneven labour data in the US helped all major currencies recover against the greenback. The Australian dollar bounced back strongly on Friday after hitting seven-month lows against the US dollar. Strong commodity prices may provide a boost to the Australian dollar this week and start a new rising trend for the local currency.
Australian Dollar; Picture Source: @CANVA
The Australian dollar also rose strongly against the Indian Rupee last week as INR was dumped against most major currencies with rising oil prices adding to economic woes for India. India is the world’s second-biggest oil importer and rising oil prices weigh strongly on Rupee sentiment.
The coronavirus cases in NSW may, however, continue to remain an area of concern and may result in vulnerable bouts of uncertainty for the Aussie currency. New Zealand dollar continues to provide a better alternative for traders due to their economy continuing to remain open.
In the world of Cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin continues to remain firmly within the trading range which we have been talking about for the past few weeks. However, with each passing week, it looks like eventually, the support will give away.
Bitcoin; Picture Source: @CANVA
Global regulatory crackdowns and energy concerns continue to weigh on the digital currency markets and a battle between broader acceptance and greater regulation could continue to stifle any price recovery.
The formation of a head and shoulder pattern on weekly Bitcoin charts is also a matter of concern for technical traders and a sign that bears may take strong control and take prices to as low as USD 24,791 soon. The charts hint strongly towards a change in momentum in favour of the bears and a breakdown of technical support may not bode well. Bitcoin would soon need to take over the critical resistance at USD 38,861 to change the bearish sentiment.
In agricultural products soy meal, barley, wheat and corn all received a boost after Iran issued a tender to purchase 60,000 tonnes for each of the four agricultural products. Record produce of corn in Argentina, the world’s third-largest corn producer and exporter were also not enough to bring the prices down. Argentina is also the world’s top exporter of processed soy and an important producer of wheat and thus stand most to gain from the tender issued by Iran.
A tender by Jordan to purchase 150,000 tonnes of wheat and that for 400,000 tonnes by Ethiopia initially boosted wheat prices, however, this was short-lived as China issued an order to buy 20,000 tonnes of frozen pork.
The price of live hog had fallen 65% since January as outbreaks of diseases resulted in panic selling. China last bought frozen pork in March 2019, when it purchased 200,000 tonnes of frozen pork.
Author: Ateev Dang is a trader and trading coach by profession. He runs Glow trades Pty Ltd where he teaches anyone who is interested in starting on their trading journey on how to trade. He can be contacted at adang@glowtrades.com.au.
Disclaimer:
The writers’ opinions in the above article are their own and do not constitute any financial advice whatsoever. Nothing published by The Australia Today constitutes an investment recommendation, nor should any data or content publication be relied upon for any investment activities.
We strongly recommend that you perform your own independent research and/or speak with a financial advisor or qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
Image source: Bowling for CA XI in U17 Championships, 2018-19 / Cricket Australia
Indian-origin young cricket Nivethan Radhakrishnan, popularly known as ‘Nivvi, can spin the ball from both ends.
NSW talent manager David Freedman, who has seen Nivvi’s rise from the U13s, told Cricket.com.au:
“He’s probably one of the more naturally talented and gifted players to have come through our pathway system.”
Image source: John Buchanan – Wikipedia.
Two decades ago John Buchanan declared ambidexterity in cricket was the next natural evolution for elite players.
On his unique style, the 18-year-old response:
“I am not like other kids. I am not like other people. I am not like other cricketers. I’m not better – I’m not worse – but I’m different.”
Image source: Ricky Ponting – Wikipedia.
In 2020, the Delhi Capitals, who had seen him playing for an Australia Under-16 team in Dubai against Pakistan in 2019, had arranged for him to be a net bowler for the duration of the tournament.
Nivvi is happy that he was able to observe the Delhi coach, Ricky Ponting.
“And I was like, ‘Oh boy, I’ve got Ricky Ponting watching me bat! Oh my God – this is peak.”
Right-handed Nivvi started practising bowling with alternating arms to an empty net or to people keen on facing him.
It was Nivvi’s dad who suggested that he try bowling with his left arm.
“I remember the sentence very clearly. ‘No-one has done it – ever. So why not?'”
Image source: Nivvi in action for NSW Metro at the 2019-20 National Championships / Cricket Australia
Nivvi worked hard on his bowling and adopted an attitude that matches some of the stalwarts of this game.
Freedman says:
“The first thing that struck me was his love for the game, even at a young age. He was always very confident and very ambitious, but certainly not in an arrogant way and he always had that wonderful work ethic. He was always prepared to experiment and try new things and make mistakes as he tried to improve. That work ethic was rare in such a young player.”
Image source – Twitter Cricket NSW
Apart from coaches and fellow cricketers, Nivvi also has to deal with comments made about his style obn various social media. He says:
“I’ve had people telling I’m the greatest, I’ve had people telling me, ‘You bowling with both hands is just a gimmick, mate’, I’ve had experienced cricketers I’ve really wanted to make conversation with, famous ones, that told me I was trash and that my skillset was not going to hold. But I’ve also had random people walking through the park see me (bowl) and tell me, ‘Mate, this is the greatest thing I’ve ever seen, and I don’t even know cricket’.”
Now, only time will tell if Nivvi is the next best thing that happened to Australian cricket.
Cultural Change transformed Indigenous tradition; Picture Source: @CANVA
The late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries have witnessed a cultural imposition by colonial expansion by British, French, and other imperial powers over the indigenous tradition and culture of the Pacific, Africa and Asia.
The cultural changes were so forceful that they transformed the tradition, culture and values. The story of the resistance to these changes is unheard popularly, but post-colonial literature revisited them in one such novel of Chinua Achebe’s [1930-2013, born in Nigeria] Things Fall Apart (1958) [TFA] who is an African writer (especially Nigeria).
It attempts to decolonize Africa’s culture, identity, history and values; and resist change, colonialism and values imposed by western values. This is writing of a colonial history of Africa through a perspective of African that is a civilised world view. This article provides the snipped view of this novel through historical interpretation and understanding, which implies in every colonised nation during that time and space.
“Things [Tradition, Culture and Values] Fall Apart”
Achebe’s TFA known as a modern classic that gave recognition to African writer’s work in world literature as a colonial encounter. This highlights the manner in which Africa is represented in European-colonial representation.
Cultural Change transformed Indigenous tradition; Picture Source: @CANVA
Africa’s image has been stereotyped as negative in western historical discourse for many centuries; this European stereotype image was countered by TFA. The colonisation of Africa by European powers reached its height in the late nineteenth century where European powers wanted to exploit parts of Africa (1880-1914).
The colonial discourse has constructed the negative image of Africa as a place and also manufactured a negative connotation about the people of Africa, equating it as a dangerous and savagery place in western discourse and mass media.
Cultural Change transformed Indigenous tradition; Picture Source: @CANVA
Another novel, Heart of Darkness (1899) by Joseph Canrad has influenced Achebe and helped him to evolve as a critical writer of Africa, as he criticised the impact of colonialism. But, Achebe also blamed Canrad for denying the identity of Africa in history, language and having civilization, like that of Europeans; while accepting of western representation of Africa by Africans (as inherent racism).
Another work of Achebe Image of Africa: Racism in Concad’s Heart of Darkness (1988), stated the construction of a barbaric, uncivilized, savage image of Africa by Europeans. This was considered to be due to the need of the west or ‘western enlightenment. Thus, Europeans portray themselves as superior in contrast with Africa.
Cultural Change transformed Indigenous tradition; Picture Source: @CANVA
The construction of this negative image of Africa for many centuries by dominant European literature was countered by TFA. The novel postulates the presence of civilization in Africa; and enlighted Africans about their historical past, culture and civilization. He accused colonialism enforced Western culture and values over non-western society as the only accepted vision that disrupted the process of evolution of African culture.
The work analyses the tradition and modernity, as in colonies, it was seen as colonial modernity that is different from European. He attempts to resist the changes and even preserve the traditional values but could sustain himself against change in tradition. He uses a dialogue of the western genre of the novel between indigenous African notions with Western’s expression in colonial English language. The title is taken from Irish Poet William Butler Yeats’ poem titled “The Second Coming” (1919) which talks about the evolution and collapse of civilization.
TFA’s is a tragic story of resistance against cultural changes brought by the colonization, the main character Okonkwo (self-made warrior and manly character, coming from Igbo community in the fictional village of East Africa around 1890s) who rose as a leader among his community due to his hard work in the first part of the novel and later part shows his perishment in context of resisting the variety of changes introduced by Colonisation.
Many of his community members embrace the Christianity of the coloniser to get better standing in the new society. Generally, villagers will in a dilemma between resisting and embracing change brought by the missionaries. This novel shows the Swifty the abandoning of traditional cultural values in favour of British values leads to the extinction of traditional values.
Cultural Change transformed Indigenous tradition; Picture Source: @CANVA
The tragedy is a decline of the traditional way of life, cultural values and community itself due to the superimposition of western culture through colonisation. Similar themes are raised by Achebe’s other early novels No Longer At Ease (1960) and Arrow of God (1964) known, as three of them are known as the ‘African trilogy’.
Counter View ‘White man’s burden’ agenda
The stereotyped Colonised discourse of negative connotations to Africa and Africans of having no culture, history or past, and colonisation of Africa was a part of the ‘civilising mission’ of these savages; this was countered by Achebe. He countered the expression of white man’s burden referred to black African.
TFA emphasis Africa has a long history of rich cultural traditions, and an economically, socially and politically prosperous society way before the contact of Europeans. This work also highlights the inflexible perspective of the main protagonist Okonkwo, who refuse to recognise or resist the changes coming from modern realities that resulted in his sad demise. Achebe tries to bring forward the identity and culture of Africa and Africans in world literature.
Conclusion
Resistance and contestation are applicable around most of the colonised nations, i.e. Africa, Asia and the Pacific. The indigenous cultures these places were forced to change or adjust with coming off their respective colonisers’ values. Africa, known as the Dark continent, Asia related to poverty/uncivilized, and Pacific as Cannibals/exotic have been seen as objects during the colonial times in colonial discourse.
Post-colonial studies and Pacific scholars are trying to revive the lost history and indigenous languages of the Pacific. If these values and customs are not revived, they will become a part of history without any voice. Decolonization of the mind is essential in academia to develop unbiased perceptions. But the mass media has stereotyped these images in the mind that needs deconstruction.
Author: Dr Sakul Kundra, A.HOD Department of Social Science, College of Humanities and Education, Fiji National University.
“Yes, I am a little sad that I lost the record, I don’t want to lie, but at the same time I can only congratulate him and it’s no problem. I hope that he will go on to become one of the top chess players and it will be just a nice start to his big career. I wish him all the best.”
Image source: Photo: Adithya Chandra/Saint Louis Chess Club.
For a grandmaster title, a chess player must score three GM norms and touch an Elo rating of 2500 and above. The norms can be awarded only in tournaments where at least 50% of the opponents are titleholders, and at least one-third of them GMs.
Image source: Abhimanyu Mishra – Twitter.
Abhimanyu has been breaking chess records since the age of 7.
He is the United States Chess Federation’s youngest Expert, the youngest National Master as and also the youngest ever International Master.
“My congratulations to Abhi for this great achievement. He fully deserves this success, as I have seen all of his hard work firsthand. His father also deserves applause for all of the sacrifices he has made for Abhi to reach this milestone. Personally, this is a big moment to see my student become a GM!”
Only five players in history of chess have managed to get the title before their 13th birthday.
Image: Top 10 Youngest Chess Grandmasters – Chess.com
PM Scott Morrison; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Australian National Cabinet met today for the 45th time to discuss its COVID-19 response, recent outbreaks and the Vaccine Strategy.
Plan to transition Australia’s National COVID Response
National Cabinet agreed to formulate a plan to transition Australia’s National COVID Response from its current pre-vaccination settings, focussing on continued suppression of community transmission, to post-vaccination settings focussed on prevention of serious illness, hospitalisation and fatality, and the public health management of other infectious diseases.
Impact on returning International Passenger arrivals
National Cabinet noted that international aviation remains critical to supporting the return of Australians from overseas as well as maintaining freight access (imports and exports) and Australia’s long-term international connectivity.
The Commissioner of Australian Border Force Michael Outram APM presented information to National Cabinet on international passenger arrivals.
Around 83.9 per cent of travellers to Australia during June 2021 are Australian permanent residents and their families.
National Cabinet agreed to temporarily reduce the current international passenger arrival caps by 50 per cent to manage the pressure on quarantine facilities due to the increased risks posed by the Delta strain of the virus.
National Cabinet also agreed that returning Australians will continue to be prioritised as part of these arrangements.
Given the impact of the reduction in current cap arrangements the Commonwealth will fund:
increased number of facilitated commercial (repatriation) flights, utilising capacity at the Centre for National Resilience at Howard Springs; and
extension of additional support through the International Freight Assistance Mechanism to maintain essential freight supply lines.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced, “National Cabinet agreed in principle that the National plan consists of four phases.”
“Each phase will be triggered by the achievement of vaccination thresholds expressed as a percentage of the eligible population (16+), based on the scientific modelling currently being conducted for the COVID-19 Risk Analysis and Response Task Force.”
Phase 1. Current Phase – Vaccinate, prepare and pilot
In this phase, the community needs to continue to suppress the virus for the purpose of minimising community transmission.
Important measures include:
Implement the national vaccination plan to offer every Australian an opportunity to be vaccinated with the necessary doses of the relevant vaccine as soon as possible;
Temporarily reduce commercial inbound passenger arrivals to all major ports by 50 per cent from current caps by 14 July to reduce the pressure on quarantine facilities, due to the increased risks of the Delta strain of the virus;
Lockdowns to be used only as a last resort;
Commonwealth to facilitate increased commercial flights to increase international repatriations to Darwin for quarantine at the National Resilience Facility at Howard Springs;
Commonwealth to extend additional support through the International Freight Assistance Mechanism to ensure maintenance of essential freight supply lines impacted by the reduction of commercial caps at international airports;
Trial and pilot the introduction of alternative quarantine options, including home quarantine for returning vaccinated travellers;
Expand commercial trials for limited entry of student and economic visa holders;
Recognise and adopt the existing digital Medicare Vaccination Certificate (automatically generated for every vaccination registered on AIR);
Establish digital vaccination authentication at international borders;
Prepare the vaccine booster programme; and
Undertake a further review of the national hotel quarantine network.
Phase 2. Moving Post Vaccination Phase
In this phase, state authorities seek to minimise serious illness, hospitalisation and fatality as a result of COVID-19.
Important measures include:
Ease restrictions on vaccinated residents – such as lockdowns and border controls;
Lockdowns only in extreme circumstances to prevent escalating hospitalisation and fatality;
Restore inbound passengers caps at previous levels for unvaccinated returning travellers and larger caps for vaccinated returning travellers;
Allow capped entry of student and economic visa holders subject to quarantine arrangements and availability;
Introduce new reduced quarantine arrangements for vaccinated residents; and
Prepare/implement the vaccine booster programme (depending on timing).
Picture Source: Supplied
Phase 3. No Lockdowns Phase
Manage COVID-19 consistent with public health management of other infectious diseases.
Important measures include:
No lockdowns;
Continue vaccine booster programme;
Exempt vaccinated residents from all domestic restrictions;
Abolish caps on returning vaccinated travellers;
Allow increased capped entry of student, economic, and humanitarian visa holders;
Lift all restrictions on outbound travel for vaccinated persons; and
Extend travel bubble for unrestricted travel to new candidate countries (Singapore, Pacific).
Phase 4. Finally- COVID19 as flu like disease
Manage COVID-19 consistent with public health management of other infectious diseases.
Important measures include:
Allow uncapped inbound arrivals for all vaccinated persons, without quarantine; and
Allow uncapped arrivals of non-vaccinated travellers subject to pre-flight and on arrival testing.
National Cabinet agreed that the COVID-19 Risk Analysis and Response Task Force be tasked to make recommendations on finalising the plan, including recommended vaccination targets for each phase of the plan based on the modelling.
Phases will continue to maintain simple risk mitigation and prevention measures such as hygiene, tracing and testing.
These arrangements will:
commence by 12.01 am Wednesday 14 July and remain in place until 31 August; and
be subject to a review by National Cabinet before the end of August and on a regular basis throughout the remainder of 2021.
National Partnership Agreement
National Cabinet welcomed the Commonwealth Government’s $752 million extension to the National Partnership on COVID-19 Response through to 30 June 2022.
The National Partnership on COVID-19 Response provides Commonwealth funding to support state and territory efforts to address the pandemic, including the Hospital Services Payment, State Public Health Payment, Vaccine Schedule, Aged Care Schedule, and the Private Hospital Viability Guarantee.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 30,685 confirmed cases in Australia and, sadly, 910 people have died. Currently, there are 4 cases in Australia requiring ICU hospitalisation and no cases on ventilators. More than 21 million tests have been undertaken in Australia.
Globally there have been over 182 million cases and sadly over 3.9 million deaths, with 429,948 new cases and 8,360 deaths reported in the last 24 hours. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to surge in many countries around the world.
Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues to expand. As of yesterday, 7,970,153 doses of COVID-19 vaccines had been administered in Australia, including 163,178 doses in the previous 24 hours. Today Australia will reach its 8 millionths COVID-19 vaccination. In the previous 7 days, 807,777 vaccines have been administered in Australia.
To date, 30 per cent of the Australian adult population have now had the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, including over 50 per cent of over 50-year-olds and over 70 per cent of over 70-year-olds.
Sulendra Raju, 46 yo, is the owner of All In One Builders Company Ltd, in Papatoeto, New Zealand.
Raju, an Indo-Fijian immigrant, has lived in this community for more than 10 years.
He has been praised as a builder who stepped in to put tarpaulins on more than 60 homes that lost their roofs and windows after a tornado struck south Auckland.
Raju told Stuff.co.nz that he just wanted to lend a helping hand.
Image source: Auckland mayor Phil Goff – Wikipedia.
Auckland mayor Phil Goff has also praised Raju for his heroic efforts.
Raju and his team of 65 men have repaired damaged roofs, windows and fallen fences.
Image source: Facebook.
In the aftermath of the tornado, Raju immediately asked his wife to put up a post on Facebook, offering assistance to anyone affected.
“I left home, told the boys to load up the trucks with tarpaulins, nails, whatever building material we needed to do makeshift repairs. We didn’t know what sort of damages we would expect … it was the worst I’d ever seen from a weather event … we wanted to make sure that people didn’t suffer more damage to their properties.”
The Government and Auckland Council have pledged $200,000 to a relief fund to help those affected by the tornado.
Reprentative picture of Student worker; Picture Source: @CANVA
Basant Vineet Pathak and his wife are on a student visa in Sydney. Like any other couple, they work hard to make ends meet.
In between the COVID19 lockdowns and uncertainty Basant’s wife had an offer to work as an admin staff at a cleaning business/ grocery shop.
Basant’s wife was happy to get ‘admin’ job after months of struggle but her smiles didn’t last for even a day.
He wrote on a Facebook group for Indians in Sydney, “With due respect to all the people of this group, I want to share an incident which happened with my wife today which makes me feel all-time low.”
We are on a student visa and my wife was offered a job in an Indian grocery shop at Homebush west on Parramatta road, he added.
“The role was to look after their cleaning business as an admin and sometimes the grocery shop. Today first day, she was asked to clean all the dust and cockroach-infested shelves etc.”
He wrote in the post, “Calling for an admin and asking her to clean the shop which was never cleaned in a year or so.”
“When she asked for water, she was directed to a water point which she drank and realise that there are cockroaches inside!!! The owner did not even felt sorry about it. Are we so low or are we so inhuman that we don’t even deserve freshwater?”
“She started feeling unwell and had to leave the job.”
The most important thing was that an Indian doing this to an Indian. If we want to work for any Indian to earn our livelihood, does it mean that we don’t have self-respect or dignity? Mr Pathak questioned.
“Please do not misunderstand me for taking down our Indian community, this message is intended for those culprits to read this message and feel ashamed of their act.”
Social media users were quick to empathise with the couple.
One of the group members even suggested to report the business to the authorities.
Few suggested to Basant that he should name and shame the business which allegedly treated his wife inappropriately.
But remember social media posts without substantial proof can lead to defamation suits in court.
Ettika Bahri wrote about the plight of people when they are on student visa. She said, “When people know that you are on a student visa they always treat you different, This has happened with my brother as well.”
However, another member of the Facebook group, Vishal Karpey said all is not lost in Indian Australian society. He wrote about his experience working in an Indian store and gave a piece of valuable advice.
Note: If you have any story you want us to cover, please write to us on admin@theaustraliatoday.com.au
YOGA at Australian Federal Parliament; Picture Source: The Australia Today
The International Yoga Day was celebrated in the Federal Parliament on 24th Thursday by Vasudeva Kriya Yoga in collaboration with the High Commission of India.
India’s Deputy High Commissioner Karthigeyan Subramanyan was delighted to welcome everyone to celebrate the 7th International Yoga Day.
Mr Subramanyan said, “It is also a matter of gratification that this event is supported by Australian Parliamentarians across the political spectrum.”
“We believe, Yoga is universal and in this beautiful country, we have amazing support and wholehearted cooperation from every level of the Australian community including the Australian Government.”
Rajendra Yenkannamoole, director of Vasudeva Kriya Yoga also presented a memorandum to the Federal Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs Jason Wood for government support to promote yoga.
Few important points this memorandum presented were:
• Introducing yoga in the schools as the yoga is for all ages and helps in bringing out the best in them
• Promote yoga and meditation at the workplace to address rampant mental health issues and to increase the productivity
• Give insurance, Medicare, and tax rebate to yoga practitioners as they contribute more to the nation than they draw.
• Promote yoga retreat centres as they promote health rather than firefighting fixing the problems
Addressing the program Federal Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar said Yoga is one that a lot of people understand on a superficial level and probably I am one of those, but it is so much deeper when you scratch the surface.
YOGA at Australian Federal Parliament; Picture Source: The Australia Today
“I want to congratulate all the organisers for this initiative, I am fortunate as someone who was raised with a view of spirituality, faith in my case, and understanding and appreciation that there is more to life and Yoga is a great example of marrying the physical with the spiritual and I really take my hat to each one of you who is involved in this initiative,” Mr Sukkar added.
In an ancient discipline like Yoga, I really implore everyone to do everything they can about spreading the word and seeding it with our younger generation.
Mr Sukkar said, “I take my hat off to the Australian Indian community, I think you probably do that better than others, honouring your culture and honouring your forefathers. You know how to instil in your children an appreciation of the history and where your roots are from and Yoga is a really important part in which we do that.”
Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs Jason Wood even participated in real action.
YOGA at Australian Federal Parliament; Picture Source: The Australia Today
“It’s a very special movement as we celebrate International Yoga Day. Yoga is an incredible spiritual discipline based on extremely subtle science which brings harmony between body and mind.”
Mr Wood said, “I did my 30 minutes Yoga this morning in Parliament House, can I say it is not pretty but it’s pretty effective. It’s incredible to know Yoga is 5000 years old, how many people it would have helped who may be suffering from mental illness or depression just to give them that focus through Yoga. Someone like myself, I have injuries due to playing active sport and I use Yoga to improve flexibility and my wife encourages me to do it.”
YOGA at Australian Federal Parliament; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Liberal Senator James Patterson told the story about his grandmother how she did Yoga even in her nineties.
“My grandmother was a very active Yoga practitioner even in her nineties, she always said that it helped her be healthy, centred and grounded all across her life.”
“I have to say, I have not yet taken it up in her footsteps, but she has always encouraged me to take it up,” Senator Patterson confessed.
‘Vasudeva Kriya Yoga’ was lauded bySenator David Van for serving the Australian and global community for nearly two decades.
YOGA at Australian Federal Parliament; Picture Source: The Australia Today
“Although yoga is an ancient concept, its application is still relevant today and I encourage Australian’s to try out some yoga and experience its many benefits.”
Senator Van said, “I am honoured to celebrate International Day of Yoga with members of the community in the Parliament.
Prominent Indian community leader Rampal Muthyala who facilitated the Federal Parliament Yoga festivities said, Yoga is India’s gift to the world for health n well being. Please practice and promote Yoga where you can.
YOGA at Australian Federal Parliament; Picture Source: The Australia Today
“It’s our immense pleasure to support International Yoga Day celebrations second time at Federal Parliament House proudly organised by Shri Rajendra ji of Vasudeva Kriya Yoga and High Commission of India, Canberra.”
Mr Muthyala explained that Yoga should be promoted to Community to enrich their mental and physical wellbeing.
YOGA at Australian Federal Parliament; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Dy High Commissioner Karthigeyan Subramanyan thanked everyone who attended the program for their high level of acceptance of the ancient Indian practice of Yoga.
India always believes in sharing its knowledge and wisdom and that’s the reason why in 2014 our PM Modi appealed to the UN to make this day an International Day of Yoga. This practice has a home which is India but it’s truly universal, said Mr Subramanyan.
Applicants must have STEMM skills and have a Skill Level 1 or 2 occupations. Applicants for subclass 491 nomination may also have a Skill Level 3 occupation using their STEMM skills.
Victoria is seeking applicants working in designated target sectors with STEMM skills.
Before applying for a Victorian skilled visa nomination, One must submit a Registration of Interest and be selected to apply.
If someone had submitted a Registration of Interest for the 2020-21 program, they must submit a new Registration of Interest for the 2021-22 program.
Selection to apply
To be considered for selection to apply for Victorian skilled visa nomination you must be:
living in Victoria (subclass 491 applicants must live and work in regional Victoria)
To be selected to apply for skilled visa nomination, one must be currently working in one of Victoria’s target sectors using STEMM skills.
If someone is seeking subclass 190 nomination and working in the digital sector, please note that Victoria is currently only selecting candidates working in cyber security.
However, if you are using digital skills in a different target sector (e.g. software developer working in health), you may also be selected.
Applicants using their STEMM skills in a business precinct will be highly regarded. Examples of business precincts are:
The health sector in Victoria consists of professionals providing medical services to Victorians as well as those involved in related education and research and development.
You do not necessarily need to be working in a health occupation (e.g. Nurse) to be considered working in the health sector. For example, a software developer working on software for hospitals is considered to be working in the health sector.
In addition to medical research conducted in universities and research institutes, Victoria’s medical research includes activities such as drug development, clinical trials, health product manufacturing, medical devices and digital health.
If you are using your STEMM skills to support medical research in Victoria, you are considered to be working in the medical research sector.
Life sciences
Victoria’s life sciences sector is composed of many industries such as the medical technology, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Companies involved in food processing, nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals may also be considered to form part of the life sciences sector.
If you are using your STEMM skills to support Victoria’s life sciences sector, you are considered to be working in the life sciences sector. For example, a lecturer in biotechnology working in a university is considered to be working in life sciences.
Digital
The digital sector makes use of technology and innovation to drive economic growth, productivity and competitiveness in Victoria.
Currently we are only selecting applicants with cyber security skills to apply for subclass 190 visa nomination. Applicants without cyber security skills who are seeking subclass 190 visa nomination may still be selected if they are using their digital skills in another target sector. For example, a software engineer working in medical research.
Applicants working in any segment of the digital sector will be considered for selection for subclass 491 visa nomination.
Agri-food
The agri-food sector in Victoria includes highly skilled people working to develop food growth and production as well as the modernisation of Victoria’s agri-food sector. To be considered for selection to apply for nomination, applicants must be using their STEMM skills to innovate within the sector, which could include research and development or advanced manufacturing.
Advanced manufacturing
Victoria’s advanced manufacturing sector includes industries such as defence and aerospace. To be considered to be working in advanced manufacturing, you must be using your STEMM skills to enhance innovation. This could include activities such as research and development, design, supply chain management increasing global competitiveness through the use of technology.
New energy, emissions reduction and circular economy
This sector includes industries such as clean energy, renewable, bioenergy, carbon capture and energy storage. Applicants could be using their STEMM skills to support efforts to reduce waste, cut pollution and protect the environment.
If you submitted a Registration of Interest (ROI) for the 2020-21 program, you must submit a new ROI for 2021-22.
Please note, you must have a valid and up to date Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted on the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect website. It is a prerequisite for submitting a Registration of Interest.
Further information on requirements to be considered for selection to apply can be found on the subclass 190 and subclass 491 pages.
Image source: Brenda Gaddi – Women of Colour Australia
Brenda Gaddi, founder and managing director of WoCA told the ABC that the findings were unsurprising.
“Even if we’re saying 60 per cent, it might be like 70 per cent or 80 per cent in reality,”
WoCA was established in 2020 with the aim of championing Australia’s Women of Colour.
“We exist to champion Australia’s women of colour through programs of education, community support initiatives, and advocacy work.”
Image source: WoCA chair Dr Pilar Kasat – website.
WoCA chair Dr Pilar Kasat told the Mandarin that women of colour continue to experience discrimination and prejudices in the Australian workplace.
“D&I initiatives should explicitly focus on race as well as gender as both combined create specific, unique challenges for women of colour that are too easily overlooked with broad platitudes that seek to advance women’s representation without questioning which women are most likely to benefit.”
543 women completed this online survey and they respondents were mostly white-collar workers – 70% working full-time and 30% earning between $100,000 and $149,990.
Dr Usha Manchanda Rodrigues, who is a Visiting Scholar at ADI Deakin University and Adjunct Professor at Manipal University, feels women of colour suffer from invisibility and stereotype.
“When it comes to increasing or promoting diversity at the workplace, managers first look at gender balance, which happen to be women from Anglo-celtic backgrounds. It is often women at the intersection of gender and race who are overlooked.”
It is not surprising that only 2 per cent of the respondents to this survey said they were their organisation’s leader.
Image source: representative image – Wikipedia.
Dr Usha M. Rodrigues notes:
“The women of colour are often seen as being from eastern cultures, who are compliant and timid. They are not seen as professional, assertive and accomplished leaders. When they do defy these stereotype, women of colour are seen as aggressive rather then assertive as their white counter-parts. To some extent, women of colour face double whamy of being a female and being a coloured person. Then, there is the issue of expected behaviour of them. They are not expected to be professional, ambitious, leaders, but caring and nice, who are not supposed to demand equality.”
The survey revealed that almost 60% of women have experienced discrimination in the workplace based on their identity.
The respondents also cited the following as their top challenges at an Australian workplace: racism, tokenism, sexism, and/or a combination of these.
Dr Usha M. Rodrigues believes that the women of colour are often overlooked at Australian workplaces because no one expects them to actually object to any form of discrimination.
“My view is that often workplaces discriminate because they can. There is very little an employee who is discriminated can do. Going to the regulatory bodies is stressful and can prove to be fatal for a complainant’s career.”
Keeping these views in mind, once again it is not surprising that only 30 per cent of the respondents believed that their identity as a woman of colour was valued in the workplace.
Further, only half of the women surveyed said that their organisations provide cultural or diversity training. This was thought of any use by only 41 per cent of the women surveyed.
ATNC survey too found that 49 per cent respondents experienced subtle forms of discrimination and while 35 per cent said they were unfairly treated in the Australian workplace.
If you feel any form of discrimination, kindly visit Fair Work website: www.fairwork.gov.au. In addition, there are a range of anti-discrimination laws and you may prefer to raise your concerns with the Australian Human Rights Commission on 1300 369 711 or your relevant state or territory anti-discrimination body. If you are a member of a trade union or employee association, they may also be able to help you.
A new survey of religion across India, based on nearly 30,000 face-to-face interviews of adults conducted in 17 languages between late 2019 and early 2020, finds that Indians of all these religious backgrounds overwhelmingly say they are very free to practice their faiths.
The survey was conducted by Pew Research Center and found that Indians see religious tolerance as a central part of who they are as a nation.
The survey finds that Hindus see their religious identity and national identity as intertwined: 64% of Hindus say it is very important to be Hindu to be “truly” Indian and 59% link Indian identity is connected with being able to speak Hindi.
Also, most Indians say it is very important to respect all religions to be “truly Indian.”
Overall, the majority of Indian adults say they are a member of a Scheduled Caste (SC) – often referred to as Dalits (25%) – Scheduled Tribe (ST) (9%) or Other Backward Class (OBC) (35%).
In terms of core values, majority of Hindus (77%) as well as an identical percentage of Muslims believe in karma. A third of Christians in India (32%) – together with 81% of Hindus – say they believe in the purifying power of the Ganges River, a central belief in Hinduism. In Northern India, 12% of Hindus and 10% of Sikhs, along with 37% of Muslims, identity with Sufism, a mystical tradition most closely associated with Islam.
The survey found that majority of Hindus see themselves as very different from Muslims (66%), and most Muslims (64%) also said that they are very different from Hindus.
Roughly two-thirds of Hindus said they wish to prevent interreligious marriages of Hindu women (67%) or Hindu men (65%). Even larger shares of Muslims feel similarly: 80% say it is very important to stop Muslim women from marrying outside their religion, and 76% say it is very important to stop Muslim men from doing so.
Many Hindus (45%) say they are fine with having neighbours of all other religions – be they Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist or Jain – but an identical share (45%) say they would not be willing to accept followers of other groups.
955 respondents from the Muslim community, the second-largest religious group in India, express great enthusiasm for Indian culture: 85% agree with the statement that “Indian people are not perfect, but Indian culture is superior to others.”
65% of Muslims, along with an identical share of Hindus, see communal violence as a very big national problem.
Nearly half of Muslim respondents say partition of India hurt communal relations with Hindus (48%), while fewer say it was a good thing for Hindu-Muslim relations (30%). While two-thirds of Sikhs (66%) say partition was a bad thing for Hindu-Muslim relations.
Overall, the survey found that Indian Muslims are slightly more likely than Hindus to consider religion very important in their lives (91% vs. 84%). Muslims also are modestly more likely than Hindus to say they know a great deal about their own religion (84% vs. 75%).
The Pew survey covered all states and union territories of India, with the exceptions of Manipur and Sikkim, where the COVID-19 situation prevented fieldwork.
Indian Australians participating in Australia Day parade: Picture Source: The Australia Today
In Canberra, the High Commission of India has requested the Indians living in Australia to use the “Global Pravasi Rishta Portal.” portal to register and connect.
This portal was launched by the Government of India launched in year 2020.
“The government recognises the importance of India Diaspora and has been engaging with them in various ways. One such innovative step is the global Pravasi Rishta portal and mobile app through which Government of India aims to connect with the overseas Indian community, not just ceremonially but at every step.”
It is a dynamic portal to establish an effective communication channel to connect with the Indian Diaspora worldwide.
“‘Connecting with the Indian Diaspora’. The diversity and colours of India are its strength, which astonishes to attract the world and connect the Indian Diaspora here to avail the new opportunities being generated in India. The 4 C’s— Care for their safety and security Connect with India, Celebrate their cultural heritage and contribute to the development of the homeland. Over 30 million pravasis now scattered across the globe would be connected through this Portal.”
Image source: Twitter.
High Commission of India released the following press statement:
According to a report by the United Nations, India has the largest diaspora population in the world with 18 million people from the country living outside their homeland in 2020.
Australia’s Indian diaspora numbers approximately 700,000 and it is rapidly growing.
WATCH VIDEO: Launching of Global Pravasi Rishta Portal by Minister of State for External Affairs (MEA, YouTube)
Representative image of human trafficking and forced labour; Picture Source: @CANVA
Investigations began in 2017 when the AFP received a referral from Anti-Slavery Australia regarding an Asian national who travelled to Australia on a three-month tourist visa.
Once her visa had expired, the host couple told the victim she would not be allowed to return to the Philippines and instructed her not to leave the premises on her own, or talk to people outside of the family.
This Sydney couple were recently sentenced for modern slavery offences, after keeping the woman in forced labour for over three years.
In court the couple entered guilty pleas for a range of offences, including the modern slavery charge of forced labour.
Representative image of human trafficking and forced labour; Picture Source: @CANVA
The 39-year-old woman was sentenced to serve three years and three months in prison. The 47-year-old man was sentenced to serve two years and six months, awaiting a home detention assessment to determine whether his sentence would be served in prison or as an Intensive Corrections Order.
The couple together has also been ordered to pay a total of $70,000 in reparations to the victim.
Representative image of human trafficking and forced labour; Picture Source: @CANVA
What is human trafficking and forced labour?
Human trafficking is a very severe form of exploitation and forced labour is a form of slavery.
been deceived about work conditions
been coerced, threatened or forced to work
to work to pay off excessive debt.
What is forced marriage?
A person is in a forced marriage if they did not freely and fully consent to be married. It is illegal in Australia.
Representative image of human trafficking and forced labour; Picture Source: @CANVA
How to get help
Contact Red Cross Support for Trafficked People Program by calling 03 9345 1800
You can also contact Red Cross if you suspect a case of human trafficking or forced labour. If you think someone is in imminent danger please call the police on 000.
To report or discuss a concern call the Australian Federal Police on 131 AFP (131 237).
You can ask the Australian Federal Police to refer you to Red Cross. Participation in the program is voluntary and you can choose to leave at any time.
Representative image of human trafficking and forced labour; Picture Source: @CANVA
If you are not comfortable contacting the AFP, you can contact Red Cross for advice.
If you or someone you know is a victim of modern slavery, help is available.
Contact Anti-Slavery Australia on (02) 9514 8115 for free and confidential legal advice or Australian Red Cross on (03) 9345 1800 or https://www.redcross.org.au/stpp
He was awarded at last months annual conference for his project, “Cervical Spine Ligamentous Injuries Bridging the Gap between Neuroradiologist and Neurosurgeons.”
For the uninitiated, ASNR’s acceptance rate is only 60 percent and there were 457 accepted educational papers.
So, Dr Bhuta got an award after competing with peers from Mayo, Harvard, Hopkins, Yale, etc. He says:
“I would like to thank dept of Neurosurgery and my co-authors for their hard work. ASNR is the biggest and most prestigious organisation in neuro, head and neck imaging and it is unbelievable even to get an abstract accepted.”
The topic of Dr Bhuta’s research paper is relevant to Gold Coast Health.
According to him, the region see a significant spinal trauma from motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, etc.
“With the introduction of new AO classification of spinal injuries, we saw the need for a paper which will influence and streamline the management of spinal injuries as they are time-critical and we hope this will be a good educational resource in managing spinal ligamentous injuries in the future.”
In addition to this, Dr Bhuta was also appointed to two ASNR committees early this year, International Collaborations Committee and the Educational Exhibits Subcommittee.
“It is a massive honour to be selected for these positions and to be the only person from Australia or New Zealand to represent our region.”
Dr Bhuta joined Gold Coast Health’s Neuroradiology department eleven years ago.
He has been a recipient of prestigious awards by Royal Australasian College of Radiology (RANZCR) in 2012 and American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) in 2014.
The latest Australian data indicates that while many Chinese students have been willing to study remotely, Indian student numbers have continuously dropped.
Image source: Department of Education, Skills and Employment
Chinese students have continued to enrol at Victorian universities in 2021 with student numbers declining by only 5.74% in the 12 months to March 2021.
On the other hand, Indian students numbers fell 33%, while commencements fell 56% between March 2020 and March 2021.
Image source: Department of Education, Skills and Employment
A key reason for the decline in Indian student numbers can be the value put on student visa rather than studies itself.
Indian students prefer onshore education as it is traditionally considered a good pathway to live, work and get a permanent residency of Australia.
Image source: Angela Lehmann – LinkedIn.
Angela Lehmann, who is a researcher with international education consultancy firm Lygon Group, told the Age:
“[Indian students] are actively looking at countries where borders are open, so we are right now losing huge amounts of students to the UK and Canada. That’s pure and simply because borders are open, and they want to get out and they want face-to-face learning.”
“There is a big difference between studying online and having a few years here to set themselves up before they enter the workforce, as opposed to having absolutely no idea what the country is like but then be expected to get a job.”
As per the Age, Victoria’s Andrews government has submitted a draft student arrivals plan to the Morrison government but it had not yet been approved at the federal level.
Meanwhile, as of July 5, international students who meet the requirements for fully vaccinated travellers to Canada and have a valid study permit to attend an approved DLI, have been exempted from quarantine requirements.
Carmichael is a thermal coal mine under construction in the Galilee Basin in Central Queensland.
Image source: Wikipedia.
It has been approved by both the Queensland and federal governments.
Bravus Mining and Resources CEO David Boshoff said in a statement that it was an exciting day for the over 2,600 people on the Project.
Image source: Adani.
Boshoff said Bravus was on track to export first coal as promised, in 2021.
“Nearly two years ago today we received our final approvals to develop the Carmichael mine and rail Project. We have faced many hurdles along the way, but thanks to the hard work and perseverance of our team, we have now reached the coal seams.”
The coal mine has been at the centre of several protests and campaigns by environmentalists.
“The project must comply with a strict regulatory framework to ensure groundwater is protected. The State and Federal Government approvals for the Carmichael Mine include around 100 different conditions relating to groundwater.”
The Indian business tycoon also affirmed his company’s commitment to meeting Australia’s strict environmental requirements.
Taking to Twitter, Gautam Adani, Chairman of Adani Group said:
“Proud of my tenacious team who mined Carmichael’s ‘first coal’ in the face of heavy odds. There couldn’t be a better birthday gift than being able to strengthen our nation’s energy security and provide affordable power to India’s millions. Thank you, Queensland and Australia.”
India will be a key customer for the Australian coal mine which is, presently, also the fourth largest global user of electricity.
Boshoff said:
“The coal will be sold at index pricing and we will not be engaging in transfer pricing practices, which means that all of our taxes and royalties will be paid here in Australia. India gets the energy they need and Australia gets the jobs and economic benefits in the process.”
It is beleieved that this coal mine project will contribute to Adani Group’s energy portfolio that includes thermal power, solar power, wind power and gas.
A Tale of International Students Survival in Australia; Picture by Bhavya Pandey
International student Ishaan Singh recalls spending nights outside a restaurant in Melbourne’s eastern suburb Carlton with the hope that he might collect enough money to buy at least one meal.
With one suitcase, pillow and a blanket, Ishaan says, the unprecedented wave of COVID-19 left him with no place to live.
“Sometimes, the restaurant customers gave me a dollar or two. When lucky, few even gave me their takeaway food. The restaurant manager noticed me and it was after a week that I told him about my homelessness.”
Ishaan, came to Melbourne from India in the year 2018 to pursue Bachelors of Information Systems. Being the youngest in the family with two elder sisters to be married off, he relied on his part-time job to take out the majority of expenses.
“My father had already spent all his life savings on my sisters’ marriage and my pre-arrival expenses. I had no courage to ask him for more.”
It was in December 2020 when he lost his job due to the pandemic and hence, was left with no savings to even pay his monthly rent.
A Tale of International Students Survival in Australia; Picture by Bhavya Pandey
“For the first three months, I managed with my savings. I dodged between several jobs, from customer service to hospitality, but the inconsistency of the working hours and sudden lockdowns were always there. I didn’t even have the money to lease a new apartment, pay the bond and the advance rent.”
Ishaan said that it became embarrassing for him to repeatedly seek help from his friends as they were also struggling.
“I was left with no alternative but to sleep in parks, over benches and sometimes, even in parking lots.”
“Worst was, to escape from the freezing winds,” he said.
A Tale of International Students Survival in Australia; Picture by Bhavya Pandey
“I would end up doing drugs every now and then. That helped me stay numb.”
After two weeks of deadly cold, loneliness and hardship, he finally got in touch with Homelessness Support Service. Fortunately, at the same time, a friend agreed to share his room with Ishaan.
“To date, I get chills and tears in my eyes when I think of those times. I have nightmares and have been seeking counselling from my university.”
Ishaan pointed out that the monetary crisis is just one of the multiple problems International students have been facing. Uncertainty still, tops the list.
“Things really hit me hard when I realised I can’t even go back till I didn’t know….. for how long.”
After five months of being ‘homeless’, Ishaan found a stable job. However, to date, he does not have his name on the lease and is living as an unauthorised resident of the property.
Research headed by the University of Technology Sydney revealed that about 21% of overseas students in Australia fear being homeless, the struggles are considerably exacerbated as a result of the coronavirus.
It also revealed that more than half (54%) of respondents were concerned about paying their rent, and a third (33%) agreed that they frequently skipped food in order to pay for their housing.
A Tale of International Students Survival in Australia; Picture Source: @CANVA
“We have come up with several initiatives to help International students going through unemployment and financial crisis.”
Many international students have lost part-time jobs andare relying on relief payments
Over 1,400 individuals who were rough sleeping or experiencing homelessness are presently staying in temporary motels in Melbourne’s CBD and inner suburbs, with another 1,250 across the state.
$30 million is being provided for homelessness and transitional housing to help more Victorians experiencing or at risk of homelessness receive the safe, stable and secure accommodation they need.
Picture Source: Supplied
Manorani Guy, Founder of VicWise Australia is among those few individuals who believe that the issue of homelessness and tenancy should be given more attention.
“The issue is not having a place to live but having the feeling of belongingness,” she said.
In December 2020, Vicwise came up with The International Student Tenancy Outreach Program supported by Study Melbourne’s International Student Welfare Program, a Victorian Government initiative where students could reach for confidential housing advice.
Manorani Guy adds:
“In such unfortunate times, students need to be aware of their possible options and resources for help. We aim to help students with legalities and accessibility when it comes to finding a suitable home.”
Not just onshore students, the horror faced by students stuck overseas who came to study in Australia is no less than homelessness.
Hriti Jerath, another student pursuing her Bachelor of Media from Monash University said that it was her biggest mistake to go back to India.
“My parents were really worried when the sudden lockdown was announced last year. I immediately shifted to my uncle’s place, leaving the student accommodation I was living in as it became unaffordable. The impact of COVID-19 had already brought a downfall in my father’s business.”
Hriti Jerath was just 19 when she came to study in Melbourne and returned backwithin 9 months. Now, she will turn 21 soon; Picture Source: Supplied
After a while, as soon as the charter flights were announced, Hriti returned on 31st July 2020. Little did she know, she would remain stranded there.
“The course structure has been made partially theoretical. I have not been able to use the editing software and technical equipment like professional cameras properly. It becomes extremely exhausting to understand the practical aspect of my course theoretically.”
The time difference results in lack of sleep which has led to her health deteriorating.
“There are days when I regret coming to Australia.”
Hriti has recently registered with the Australian government international student return portal, and believes that its high time that Victoria gets International students back.
“I came into an alien land, thinking I would find my happy place there. I am physically here in India but my heart is in Melbourne. My university, my belongings, moreover, my dreams…..my future is all there. Is feeling lost, not considered homelessness ?
In a recent poll of 607 students stranded overseas conducted by the Council of International Students Australia (CISA), 93 percent admitted that studying online in their home countries had a negative impact on their mental health.
A Tale of International Students Survival in Australia; Picture Source: @CANVA
More than a quarter of students reported periodical thoughts of self harm and over two-thirds had self-diagnosed anxiety or depression at some point.
The CISA has recommended that the Australian government devote more resources to developing innovative methods for delivering online education, as well as laying out a timeline for when students may begin planning their return.
A spokesperson from the Department of Education said that students must be in touch with their education provider as they can assist them best with support services regarding their Overseas Student Health Cover insurance.
He also stated that with NSW already initiating the process, the Victorian government too, is undergoing consultations and is in the process of forming exclusive strategies to combat this multifaceted problem.
“Revealing much will not be in anyone’s favour until things are concrete enough. All we can assure you is that the department is putting in all its effort to ensure student welfare, keeping the public health and safety of citizens into consideration.”
International Student Alliance (ISA) Founder Karan Mehta has been advocating the issue of homelessness for both onshore and offshore students.
A Tale of International Students Survival in Australia; Picture Source: @CANVA
He told The Australia Today:
“It is high time now that substantial solutions are put into place and grievances of international students are heard.”
Thousands of international students, both onshore and offshore, have been questioning the worth of their psychological strain, house hunting struggles and massive financial investments towards their studies.
“The irony is that the statistics show some international students as homeless whereas the truth is, all international students are facing homelessness in some way or the other”,
With the interim heads up on the return of international students and onshore students getting relatively little more support, hopefully they shall get their answers soon.
Mr Mehta adds:
“When we talk about home, we do not simply refer to a physical living structure but a place where voices are heard and people are comforted.”
Hopefully, they shall find their ‘home’ soon.
Note: ‘Ishaan Singh’ is the changed name to protect the identity of the student.
Image source: Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes – Parliament of Victoria.
Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes congratulated Pardeep Singh Tiwana on his new role as a judge.
“We’re investing strongly and working with the courts to help drive down the backlogs caused by the pandemic – making sure more people can have their cases heard faster.”
Image source: County Court of Victoria – Wikipedia
Judge Pardeep Singh Tiwana’s family originally hail from Kot Kalan village in Punjab.
On hearing the news of Tiwan’s appointment as a judge in the County Court of Victoria, the whole village performed a religious prayer and distributed sweets.
Pardeep Singh Tiwana was born and brought up in the UK and has completed his law degree from the University of Wolverhampton.
He did his barrister study from the bar school of Lincoln’s Inn and was the youngest applicant to get a law degree as a barrister.
Image source: Pardeep Singh Tiwana – CPD in Session.
Pardeep Singh Tiwana previously worked as a law clerk and solicitor at Paul Vale Criminal Lawyers and a criminal barrister at 4 Fountain Court Chambers/Citadel Chambers in the United Kingdom.
He also has two scholarships from bar school and applied in 1993 as a 23-year-old youth. He practised till 2006 there, before moving to Australia.
After doing a 3-month law course from Melbourne university, Pardeep Singh Tiwana started practicing in Australia as a criminal lawyer in 2006.
Australian shares ended their five-week rally to record their first weekly loss in six as surging COVID19 cases in New South Wales kept markets on edge throughout the week.
Even though the stock markets rallied globally after US President Joe Biden embraced a bipartisan Senate infrastructure deal thus raising hopes of a faster recovery in the World’s largest economy.
The infrastructure deal means there is expected to be a whole lot of cash injected into the markets. It also would mean an increased demand for materials which will definitely be beneficial for Australian markets.
The news was typically beneficial for Australian miners as the price of iron ore gained following the news with Rio Tinto recording its best weekly gain since early May. We were bullish on BHP, RIO and Fortescue last week and we continue with our bullish bias with them as iron ore prices continue to rise.
Market Mantra: Nasdaq; Picture Source: @CANVA
The travel stocks, however, took a hammering as COVID cases surged in Sydney. Flight Centre recorded a weekly loss of 6.5% and Webjet lost 4.5% in value last week.
Even though there is a lot of positive sentiment globally on the US bipartisan deal and it seems that where the US goes rest of the world goes, an increasingly concerning COVID situation in Sydney though will do little to improve investor confidence in Australia.
Afterpay rose 12.7% for the week after announcing a digital card strategy, thus opening itself for a wider range of US retailers. However, it may hit the brakes as Australia’s most populous state goes into lockdown.
We will also be keeping an eye on Boral following the takeover bid from Seven Group Holding. Seven Group Holding had previously put in a takeover bid for $6.50 for Boral which the management thought undervalues the company. As the shareholders prepared to reject the deal a twist came in on Friday with Seven Holding raising its offer to $7.30 per share and flagging a second conditional increase to $7.40. This sent share prices from $6.71 at 11:30 am on Friday to $7.34 at the close.
Market Mantra: GOLD; Picture Source: @CANVA
Boral, the building materials company, has had a remarkable turnaround this year rising 47% since January compared to the ASX 20 benchmark which has only risen 9.33% in the same period.
Gold prices stabilised last week as weaker than expected US inflation data and President Biden bipartisan infrastructure agreement with the lawmakers gave a boost to market sentiment. While the bulls have found some momentum to increase the gold prices last week they may struggle around the USD 1789 price level. A break of $1789 may take the price of gold to 1818 an ounce compared to US Dollar, however, if bears oppose the bulls momentum gold prices may go as low as $1680.
This week the gold investors will keep a strong eye on Europe where new rules known as Basil III come into effect from Monday 28 June. While gold has had a decline three weeks in a row on US inflation concerns it would be European banks that may shake up the precious metal market this week.
Market Mantra: GOLD; Picture Source: @CANVA
From Monday gold will become a risk-free tier 1 asset for European banks, meaning gold will have the highest liquidity, on par with cash. While this news is a piece of positive news for gold and shall increase overall liquidity for gold, it only impacts physical gold. As such all eyes will be on European banks on Monday to see if the investment in gold is more prolific at the large and central banks level. A failure to notice an increase in gold sales at the banks level may see gold prices trade sideways till we see real improvements in GDP and unemployment especially in India and China, the two largest gold consumers in the world.
Oil prices continued to rally for the fifth week after reaching their highest price since October 2018. With OPEC+ countries continuing to remain cautious to increase supplies of oil from August 2021 there are expectations that demand will outstrip supplies specially as more economies and countries open up. As such oil prices may continue to rise until unless there is major news that may impact oil demand negatively.
A flat consumer sending data in the US helped all major currencies recover against the greenback. The Australian dollar was especially stronger against all major currencies such as British Pound and Euro. The Australian dollar also gained against the Indian Rupee with 1 Aussie dollar buying 56.31 Indian rupees.
Market Mantra: Picture Source: @CANVA
The rising Coronavirus cases in NSW may, however, start the week in slow motion for the Australian dollar as investors may find a better value in the New Zealand dollar and Canadian dollar with their economies continuing to remain open.
In the world of Cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin, Ether and most altcoins remained under pressure. However, the good news for crypto traders is that the prices remain firmly established between the previously established trend between USD 30,000 and USD 41,000.
As Iran joined China in the war against digital assets good news came in the form of El Salvador announcing that Bitcoin will become legal tender as of September 7. While the long term trend for Bitcoin still remains bearish there is a wider acceptance that there is a good chance the coin will head higher to the middle of a $31,000 to $41,000 for Bitcoin. The other coins look like following Bitcoin lead at the time being.
Market Mantra: Bitcoin; Picture Source: @CANVA
With China, which accounted for 50% of global bitcoin mining, banning mining it was expected the bitcoin transaction fees will go down. However, this triggered a flash bitcoin mining equipment sale and thus made the cost of bitcoin mining equipment cheaper. The miners are now eyeing Texas as the next mining hub and it would be interesting to see how this will impact digital currencies in the future.
For the time being as more countries look at greener technologies, we are also more positive towards greener coins such as Cardano, IOTA and Sterling Lumens than Bitcoin.
In agricultural products price of most commodities declined during the week except soybean which remained steady due to the large demand for soybean from Mexico. The US traders are keeping a keen eye on China to see if the US Department of Agriculture will report more soybean sales to China this week after a string of deals last week.
Corn prices took a big tumble however last week after a US Supreme Court ruling raised concerns about reduced demands for the crops from the biofuel industry.
Wheat prices also continued to tumble as Russia, the world’s largest wheat exporter recorded an excellent year for wheat production. A 400,000 tonnes of optional-origin milling wheat tender from Ethiopia and 395,000 tonnes of red milling wheat tender from Turkey was also not enough to stop the decline in prices as traders are concerned about excess wheat supply. As wheat supplies continue to grow and prices for wheat continue to decline we expect that corn prices will also follow the direction of wheat prices as they both compete for space in animal feed rations globally.
Author: Ateev Dang is a trader and trading coach by profession. He runs Glow trades Pty Ltd where he teaches anyone who is interested in starting on their trading journey on how to trade. He can be contacted at adang@glowtrades.com.au.
Disclaimer:
The writers’ opinion in the above article are their own and do not constitute any financial advice whatsoever. Nothing published by The Australia Today constitutes an investment recommendation, nor should any data or content publication be relied upon for any investment activities.
We strongly recommend that you perform your own independent research and/or speak with a financial advisor or qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
The dance teacher, Sonar Chand Ngangom, with ladies elegantly dressed for Garba; Picture Source: Supplied
Indian Diaspora in the Pacific (Fiji) and around the world (Guyana, Mauritius, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago etc.) have transformed into forming a hybrid culture, by adopting many aspects of the host’s culture, rework, reform and reconfigure them to form a hybrid culture.
The notion of ‘hybridity is emphatically raised by postcolonial literature. Postcolonial studies have made an academic rethinking in the arts and humanities, as a process of interpreting and criticising the culture of colonialism and imperialism, reflecting the idea of resistance and anti-empire feeling.
Colonialism was constructed as a ‘civilizing mission’ of the East, this has been revisited by post-colonial theorists to decolonize the legacy of colonisation in the formerly colonised nations.
They have a non-Eurocentric perspective and question the values of imperialism. Post-colonial theorists have analysed this by the colonial powers considered themselves superior over the colonised nation, so tied to dominate and enforce hegemony. Under this movement, the scholars raised a voice against the colonial empire with strong resistance.
A school-based Indo-Fijian dancing troupe performing a Pacific item. Photo: PMC archive; Supplied
‘Holy Trinity’
Major post-colonial studies’ scholars include Edward Said’s Orientalism concept, Gayatri Spivak’s idea of ‘Subalternity’ and Homi K. Bhabha’s ‘hybridity and Mimicry’. These three are together known as the ‘Holy Trinity’ in postcolonial studies.
Here we enlighten Bhabha’s work as a cultural critic and develop a theoretical understanding of postcolonialism, based on his work and other multiple available sources for mass readers. This scholar discussed the marginalisation of natives without any agency and identity of their own. They have been misrepresented and their identity has been distorted.
Bhabha (born in 1949 in India, higher studies in the UK and employed in the US) is a cultural critic, literary and prominent theorist of postcolonial culture. His terminologies are closely related to the ideas and terminologies from Michel Foucault, Jacques Derrida and Jacques Lacan (French thinkers).
His text is difficult to understand due to the complex style of writing. He coined a large number of neologisms and key concepts like mimicry, hybridity, ambivalence, difference, dissemination. These terms reflect the manner in which the colonised people have resisted the power of the colonisers.
Overall, postcolonialism studies raised an issue of marginalisation of natives without any voice and identity, thus leading to distortion of native subjects and misrepresentation of native culture.
Neologism Terms
Bhabha’s work The Location of Culture (1994) highlights the negotiation of cultural identity during colonial times prevalent in race, culture and gender. He explains the emergence of new cultural forms from multiculturalism with a theory of ‘cultural hybridity.
Girmit Boat Image: Shyamni. Read more at: https://www.newsgram.com/girmitiyas-from-indenture-labour-to-political-and-economic-scenario/
In simple terms, it means a mixture of two cultures that leads to an emergence of a new culture. The work believes that culture is not a static entity, but it is fluid and in motion; and discourse of colonisation works in two directions, first, establish the colonised as ‘others’ or ‘colonising subject’, while it also abolishes their radical ‘otherness’ understanding by the ‘West’.
The concept of ‘Mimicry’ is reflected in Bhabha’s work Of Mimicry and Man (1985), which beliefs in the process of imitation by the colonised society of the lifestyle of colonisers in terms of culture, education, language, dress and politics. This imitation is done in the hope to have access to the power (colonial) in oneself.
As colonisers have civilised and taught discipline to the indigenous people, but still maintained a significant difference between coloniser and colonised. The reason behind it is to continue their dominance and colonial rule forever.
Colonial mimicry arises due to colonised’s desire to be reformed, recognisable other, but it is “almost the same, but not quite.” He believes the “menace of mimicry is its double vision which in disclosing the ambivalence of colonial discourses also disrupts its authority. And it is a double-vision that is a result of what I’ve described as the partial representation or recognition of the colonial object” (Bhabha, 2001, p. 383).
This mimicry leads towards hybridity. It is described with an example “He states that at the end of the 18th century, the English administration wanted to convert their Indian subjects to Christianity but did not want them to be too Christians or too English as they foresaw that they were simply producing a colonised mimic” (Bhat, 2015).
He postulates the concept of hybridity that negates the concept of purity of race and national identity whereas this hybridity develops in between the real and idealised space called ‘third space’. The notion of pure and uncontaminated culture is a myth for this work. This concept is based on cultural differences between the colonisers and colonised, that noticed cultural exchange between them and leads to the production of hybridity.
This is cross-cultural exchange and it has effects on different ways like social, cultural, political and religious. The coloniser and colonised are not a separate entity, so they are interdependent during the colonial period that even continues in the post-colonial period. He tries to find the location of culture in marginal spaces and believes in the idea of misrepresentation in the postcolonial world.
— Where is Shyamni? (@MaharishiSharon) July 16, 2019
As per Bhabha, ‘ambivalence’ was used that signifies the coloniser’s intention to reform the colonised but did not make a complete transformation. This is a way in which coloniser and colonised regard each other. The coloniser usually regards the colonised as inferior and exotic, whereas the colonised regard the coloniser as enviable and corrupt.
This uncertainty resulted in mimicry when natives try to mimic the colonisers’ culture but fail to realise the power of reform, unable to get recognition and fail to undermine the colonisers’ system. Thus, the process of mimic by natives leads to ridicule.
Conclusion
Peter Burke’s work Cultural Hybridity (2009) stated the process of hybridisation and globalisation are interconnected. As hybridisation has a major impact on the identity of a person, culture and opinion.
The response to cultural hybridity can be accepted, rejected, segregated and adapted. Thus, the Indian Diaspora has resulted in the formulation of a hybrid culture in the Pacific, and this hybridity is further extended when Indians from Fiji move towards nations (majorly have migrated to neighbouring countries Australia and New Zealand).
This mixture led to the development of a new identity and culture distinct in itself but more oriented towards the present homeland since some only imagined/noticed their forefather’s country with stereotypical picture of mass media.
Author: Dr Sakul Kundra, A.HOD Department of Social Science, College of Humanities and Education, Fiji National University.
Dr Sakul Kundra; Picture Source: Supplied
Disclaimer: The views expressed are his own and not of The Australia Today or his employer. For comments or suggestions, email. dr.sakulkundra@gmail.com
Kushagra told ABC Radio Melbourne that his countless cold calls and a few interviews didn’t result in a single job offer:
“I thought OK, nothing was working out, so I should apply my designer skills and mind. I looked at all the stations, how many people were coming through, and figured out where would be the best place to advertise myself.”
Image source: Southern Cross Station – Wikipedia.
So, at the end of March 2021, Kushagra stood opposite Southern Cross and Flinders Street train stations with a sign saying:
“Looking 4 a graduate of architecture? HIRE ME.”
He stood outside the stations for 3 weeks from morning from 8:00 am to 9:15 am.
In April, Metro Trains’ digital engineering manager Scott Poll who was heading to work spotted Kushagra on Spencer Street with his sign.
Scott gave Kushagra a warm smile and tried to figure out if he had a job that could suit the job seeker.
“When I got to the office I thought I need to go back and talk to him, but unfortunately when I’d gone back he had disappeared.”
After a search on LinkedIn, message exchange, conversation and a formal interview process, Kushagra was offered a position as a draftsperson with Metro.
“I thought that’s a young kid with a lot of courage to be able to do that, at one of the busiest intersections in the city,” Mr Poll said.
Scott sincerely felt hopeful the following about Kushagra:
“If he is willing to do that, I know he is going to be willing to be a hard worker.”
Kushagra is now employed with Metro Trains and enjoying his work creating 3D models. His advise to others facing similar situation in Australia is:
“Do not hesitate to do anything to get a job. Put yourself out there. Not necessarily what I did, but you shouldn’t be scared — you can only give your best shot.”
WATCH VIDEO: Kushagra Jhurani’s student project – ‘A Memory Temple’
Image released after man makes sexual comments towards girls at Noble Park; Picture Source: Victoria Police
Dandenong Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives have released a computer-generated image with the hope to identify a man after he approached two school-aged girls and made inappropriate sexual comments in Noble Park last month.
The first incident occurred on Heatherton Road, near Corrigan Road, about 3.45pm on Wednesday, 26 May.
A 16-year-old girl was approached by an unknown man who held out his mobile phone and showed an explicit pornographic video before making sexual comments towards her.
The girl then quickly walked away from the man.
The second incident occurred about ten minutes later when a 13-year-old girl noticed a man following her while walking along Heatherton Road.
The man showed her an explicit pornographic video on his mobile phone before asking her questions of a sexual nature.
The girl ran away from the man who walked away in an opposite direction.
Following an extensive investigation, detectives believe the same man was involved in both incidents and have released a computer-generated image of a man who they believe can assist with their enquiries.
The man is perceived to be of Indian Sub-Continental appearance, aged in his 30s, and had a long black beard.
Anyone who recognises the man or has information regarding the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
NSW Premier’s COVID-19 update; Picture Source: The Australia Today
NSW Premier announced, To protect NSW people from the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, current restrictions will be extended to at least midnight on Friday 2 July.
In addition, As per the health advice from the Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant about the growing risk to the community, stay-at-home orders are being introduced for at least one week for those who live in, or whose usual place of work is in, Woollahra, Waverley, Randwick and City of Sydney Councils.
Due to the risk associated with an increasing number of exposure venues where transmission has occurred, from 11.59 pm tonight until at least 11.59 pm on Friday 2 July, residents of, or people whose usual place of work is in, the four LGAs must stay at home unless it is for an essential reason.
The four reasons you may leave your home include:
Shopping for food or other essential goods and services;
Medical care or compassionate needs;
Exercise outdoors in groups of 10 or fewer;
Essential work, or education, where you cannot work or study from home.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said, “I understand this is a difficult time for everyone, however, we need to take these steps now to get on top of this outbreak.”
People should only enter the four LGAs for essential purposes.
“if you live or work in the City of Sydney, Waverley, Randwick, Canada Bay, Inner West, Bayside, and Woollahra local government areas, you cannot travel outside metropolitan Sydney for non-essential reasons.”
Residents across greater Sydney should also limit unnecessary activity and avoid large gatherings in coming days and comply with the current restrictions.
Australian Citizenship Ceremony in Canberra, PM Scott Morrison; Picture Source: Facebook @ScoMo
From 1 July 2021, new citizenship application fees will apply for all Australian citizenship applications and for citizenship by descent and adoption, certificates will be issued to approved applicants.
As per the Department of Home Affairs, Citizenship application Fees are increasing to reflect the cost of application processing more accurately.
Applicants will be charged the relevant fee-based on when the Department receives their application. The new fees apply if the Department receives the application and payment on or after 1 July 2021.
The circumstances in which a fee concession applies from 1 July 2021 have been simplified however, there are no changes to fee exemptions.
Citizenship application fees (effective 1 July 2021)
Application type
Fee from 1 July 2021 (amounts in AUD)
Australian citizenship by conferral—General eligibility (Form 1300t):
Standard fee
$490
Concession fee*
$70
Child 15 years or younger applying on the same form as parent / Fee exemption^
Nil
Australian citizenship by conferral—Other situations (Form 1290):
Standard fee
$300
Concession fee*
$35
Child 15 years or younger applying on the same form as parent / Fee exemption^
Nil
Australian citizenship by descent (Form 118)
Single application / First sibling when two or more siblings apply
$315
Second and each subsequent sibling applying at the same time
$130
Australian citizenship for children adopted under full Hague Convention or bilateral arrangements (Form 1272)
Single application / First sibling when two or more siblings apply
$315
Second and each subsequent sibling applying at the same time
$130
Renunciation of Australian citizenship (Form 128)
$265
Resumption of Australian citizenship
Resumption of Australian citizenship
$210
Child 15 years or younger applying on the same form as parent
Nil
Evidence of Australian citizenship (Form 119)
Separate application for evidence of Australian citizenship
$240
Application for replacement of evidence of Australian citizenship lost, destroyed or damaged due to a natural disaster
Nil
* Fee concessions for forms 1300t and 1290
A fee concession is payable by:
holders of a Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Australian Government (Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs)
persons aged 17 years or younger listed as a dependant on a Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Australian Government (Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs) applying independently.
No fee is payable for children aged 15 years or younger applying on the same form as a parent.
NOTE: To be eligible for the fee concession, applicants must provide a certified copy of both sides of their Pensioner Concession Card with the citizenship application.
^Fee exemptions
No fee is payable for applicants who:
are a British or Maltese former child migrant who came to Australia without parents between 22 September 1947 and 31 December 1967 under the Commonwealth Child Migration Scheme. A letter from the Child Migrants Trust confirming details of arrival and sponsorship will need to be submitted with the citizenship application.
served for at least 90 days in the permanent forces of the Commonwealth of Australia. A letter or discharge papers from the Australian Defence Force specifying service dates will need to be submitted with the citizenship application.
are applying under the Statelessness provision (section 21(8) of the Australian Citizenship Act 2007).
Australian Citizenship Ceremony in Canberra, PM Scott Morrison; Picture Source: Facebook @ScoMo
Why citizenship fees are changing
This is the first fee increase in more than five years. The revised fees were determined by citizenship application processes and costs.
The changes to citizenship fees apply from 12.00 am 1 July 2021 (Australian Eastern Standard Time). New fees apply for any application submitted on or after this time.
Citizenship fee changes and your application
If you submit your application online on or after 1 July 2021, the new fee will apply. This is regardless of when you started the application. If you apply online, your application is considered submitted when the Department receives it, along with the applicable fee.
If you apply online and pay by credit or debit card, PayPal, or UnionPay, your application and fee are generally received on the same day. If you pay by BPAY there may be a delay in receipt of your application and payment.
Before submitting the application, please ensure it includes all the required documents. If you submit an incomplete application, you may be required to make a new application, and pay the relevant fee. If the department of Home Affairs receives an application on or after 1 July 2021, the new application fee applies.
Australian Citizenship Ceremony in Canberra, PM Scott Morrison; Picture Source: Facebook @ScoMo
Paper applications
If you lodge a paper application by mail, the date you submit your application is the date the Department receives it, not the day you post the application form. If we receive your application on or after 1 July 2021, the new fee applies.
Please consider postage times. To avoid the risk of postal delays, we recommend applying online where possible.
If we receive your paper application without the full fee that applies on the date we receive your application, we cannot consider your application until the correct application fee has been paid.
If you previously paid a lower fee, but there has been a delay in submitting your application, you are able to make a ‘top-up’ payment via ImmiAccount. Go to ImmiAccount:
My payments > Manage payments > Pre-pay Paper Service and select Top-up payment.
If you do not pay the ‘top-up’ amount, you will need to submit a new application with the correct fee.
Fee Concessions
From 1 July 2021, if you are applying for Australian citizenship by conferral you can pay a concession fee if you:
hold a Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) issued by the Australian Government (Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs)
or
you are:
aged 17 years or younger,
applying independently, and
listed as a dependant on a PCC issued by the Australian Government (Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs).
If you are paying a concession fee, you must provide a certified copy of both sides of your concession card with your application.
Changes to citizenship certificates from 1 July 2021
From 1 July 2021, applicants approved for Australian citizenship by descent and Australian citizenship by adoption will receive an Australian citizenship certificate. This is instead of an Australian citizenship extract.
An Australian citizenship extract is an informal document that can be used to access limited government services. An Australian citizenship certificate is an official document that provides formal evidence of Australian citizenship.
Applicants for Australian citizenship by descent and adoption who:
applied prior to 1 July 2021, and
have their application approved on or after 1 July 2021
are also eligible to receive an Australian citizenship certificate instead of an extract. The Department will contact these applicants directly with more information.
The Government will not issue citizenship extracts for applications approved on or after 1 July 2021, However, a citizenship extract (issued prior to 1 July 2021) can be used to apply for an Australian Passport.
Representative image: Air India Flight Flight 182 bombing; Picture Source; Supplied
The 36th immensely distressing and sad anniversary of the bombing of Air India Flight 182 on 23 June 1985 which is one of the largest mass killings in Canadian History and one of the deadliest act of aviation terrorism by The Babbar Khalsa terror group called Khalistanis.
It killed all 329 people on board including 268 Canadian, 27 British and 24 Indian citizens mid-air en route from Montreal to London.
On this day we pay homage to all the victims and convey our deepest sympathies and condolences to their surviving family members and strongly condemn the terrorist and separatist group Babbar Khalsa for the heinous crime they have committed against humanity.
Some of the family members of the deceased in that ill-fated flight live in Australia and still fighting for justice. We stand by them and condemn the violence of any kind, terrorism from any race and commit to working hard to keep and make Australia a safe and best place to live.
New Zealand win the inaugural World Test Championship title; Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor played unbeaten knocks off 52 and 47 respectively as New Zealand defeated India by eight wickets to clinch the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) here at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton on Wednesday.
A complete effort on the Reserve Day saw New Zealand edging India in a final which had its ebbs and flows in the first innings. The Kiwis made full use of the slender 32-run lead and the Kane Williamson-led side bundled out India cheaply in the second innings to get a target of just 139.
The batsmen did not relent and in the end, the side walked away with a comfortable victory. Requiring 139 to win, New Zealand openers Latham and Conway batted till the tea break, ensuring that their side did not lose any wicket before the interval. In the final session, New Zealand required 120 runs to win from 45 overs.
After the tea break, Latham (9) was sent back to the pavilion by Ravichandran Ashwin. The left-handed batter stepped out of his crease to go for a big shot, but he ended up missing the ball and as a result, he was stumped, and the first-wicket partnership of 33 runs came to an end.
New Zealand win the inaugural World Test Championship title; Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Soon after, Ashwin had Conway (19) adjudged leg-before wicket, and New Zealand was reduced to 44/2 and the side still required 95 runs for the win. Ross Taylor then joined Williamson in the middle and the duo helped New Zealand to retrieve their innings. Both batsmen mixed caution with aggression and in the end, the duo guided New Zealand to an eight-wicket victory.
Earlier, Tim Southee scalped four wickets as India was bundled out for 170 in the second innings on the Reserve Day. The inspired show with the ball ensured that New Zealand would need to score 139 runs in a minimum of 53 overs to win the title.
New Zealand win the inaugural World Test Championship title; Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Rishabh Pant top-scored for India as he played a knock of 41 runs, but he hardly found any company as none of the top-order batsmen managed to spend time in the middle. It was ultimately left on the likes of Ravindra Jadeja (16 off 49 balls) to give him company as India lost the wickets of Virat Kohli (13), Cheteshwar Pujara (15), and Ajinkya Rahane (15) in the first session itself.
Right from the first session, the Kiwi bowlers brought out their A-game. It was all about discipline and patience for the New Zealand bowlers as they kept attacking the channel outside the off-stump with the occasional bouncers to rough the batsmen up. Kohli played an unfamiliar shot and what followed is hard to explain.
A mixture of good deliveries and soft dismissals resulted in India being bundled out without showing much fight. Experienced players like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara were not able to show any resistance and it was ultimately too much to ask of from the lower order.
New Zealand win the inaugural World Test Championship title, Indian Captain Virat Kohli; Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Resuming the second session at 130/5, Pant and Jadeja managed to add 12 more runs to the total before Jadeja’s (16) stint at the crease came to an end as he was sent packing by Neil Wagner. The left-armer angled one across the channel, and Jadeja poked at the delivery, handing an easy catch to BJ Watling behind the stumps.
Ravichandran Ashwin joined Pant in the middle and the duo managed to add 14 more runs to the total, but this partnership too came to an end in the 70th over as Pant (41) gifted his wicket to Trent Boult. Pant decided to step out and lofted the ball in the air. It was a casual end to what had been a fighting knock till then.
Even though he did miss quite a few balls, he was looking to apply himself till Boult got the better of him. Henry Nicholls took a stunner to send Pant back as it was the beginning of the end of the India essay. In the very same over, Ashwin (7) was dismissed by Boult, and India was reduced to 156/8.
New Zealand win the inaugural World Test Championship title; Picture Source: Twitter @BCCI
Mohammed Shami did manage to add 13 valuable runs to the total, but in the end, it was all about waiting for the innings to end. Kyle Jamieson returned with two wickets while Boult picked three. Not to forget Wagner’s lion-hearted effort even though he had only one wicket to show for his efforts.
In the first innings, a similar story unfolded as India suffered a collapse and the side was bowled out for 217. New Zealand was reduced to 192/7 at one stage in their innings but the lower-order came to the rescue and the Kiwis managed to take a lead of 32 runs.
Brief Scores: India 217 and 170 (Rishabh Pant 41; Tim Southee 4-48); New Zealand 249 and 140/2 (Ross Taylor 47*, Kane Williamson 52*, Ravichandran Ashwin 2-17)
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
In a remarkable shift since 2020, Australians’ trust in India is on par with trust in the United States. Six in ten Australians (61%) say they trust India a great deal or somewhat, an increase of 16 points since 2020.
The Lowy Institute’s 2021 poll of Australian attitudes to the world surveyed more than 2,200 Australians in March.
Image source: China President Xi Jinping – Xinhua
According to this latest poll, Australians’ trust in India has increased while trust in China has plunged to new lows.
Australians reserve their highest levels of trust for other liberal democracies across the world. An overwhelming majority of Australians say they trust Japan (87%, up 5 points) and the United Kingdom (also 87%) to act responsibly in the world.
“The endless list of bilateral irritants and concerning stories — from the crackdown in Hong Kong to the detention of the Uyghurs, sanctions on Australian industries and the plight of Australian citizens in China — has driven the relationship, and driven public perception, to rock bottom.”
More than 60 per cent of people recently surveyed say that they view China as a security threat rather than an economic partner.
Only 16 per cent saying they trust China to act responsibly in the world.
Image source: Lowy Institute, Michael Fullilove – Twitter
The executive director of the Lowy Institute, Michael Fullilove, told the Guardian that:
“Australians do not want regional competition to slide into confrontation.”
Image source: Lowy Institute website.
While Canada leads the poll’s “feelings thermometer,” it also shows that trust has increased in India. It now stands at 56 per cent, which is up since the 2020 poll.
The respondents were also presented with a list of 12 leaders and they expressed the most confidence (91 per cent) in New Zealand’s Jacinda Ardern.
Image source: PM Narendra Modi – Wikipedia.
34 per cent had some confidence and 4 per cent lot of confidence respectively in India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to do the right thing regarding the world affairs.
Image source: Lowy Institute website.
The poll shows that 37 per cent had some confidence and 30 per cent lot of confidence respectively in Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
Image source: Scott_Morrison – Wikipedia
Australians continue to be extremely confident in Australia’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, ranking Australia well ahead of five other countries included in this year’s survey, including China, the United States, United Kingdom, Taiwan and India. Almost all Australian adults (95%) say that Australia has handled COVID-19 ‘very well’ or ‘fairly well’ so far.
The majority of Australians say that India has not handled COVID-19 well so far, even though fieldwork for this polling was conducted prior to the dramatic increase in COVID-19 cases in India in April 2021. Only a quarter of Australians (27%) say India has handled COVID-19 very or fairly well.
Australia is in the process of negotiating several free trade agreements, including with the United Kingdom, European Union and India. In 2020, a majority of Australians say that proposed free trade agreements with the European Union (58%) and the United Kingdom (56%) would be good for Australia.
However, Australians are more divided about a free trade agreement with India. Four in ten Australians (44%) say that a free trade agreement with India would be good for Australia, while 28% say it would make no difference and 24% say it would be bad for Australia.
Melbourne Finders Street Station; Picture Source: @CANVA
Victoria is taking a big step forward so that every Victorian can get together and spend more time together.
On the advice of the Chief Health Officer, restrictions in regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne will ease from 11.59 pm Thursday 24 June.
And these changes won’t just last a week – they’ll remain in place for at least two weeks‘ time, meaning Victorians can plan and get back to doing the things they love.
Private visitors to the home will increase from two in Melbourne, and five in regional Victoria to 15 across the entire state – and up to 50 people can gather outside in a public place like a park.
Funerals and weddings will be capped at 300 people, and hospitality venues can serve up to 300 in Melbourne, but density limits still apply.
Masks must still be worn inside. But more people in metropolitan Melbourne can return to offices, with 75% capacity – or 30 people in a workplace – whichever is greater.
Highlights:
Public gatherings of up to 50 people
People will have up to 15 people in their homes per day
Work from home recommendations removed, caps raised
Wedding and funeral caps raised to 300 — subject to venue density limits
Recreational sport – 300 people indoors, 1,000 outdoors
Seated venues – maximum 300 indoors, 1,000 outdoors
Mask rules don’t change – keep them on you!
Specifically for hospitality venues in Melbourne:
Restaurants and cafes can now open to a maximum of 300 patrons per venue for seated service, subject to a density quotient of one person per 4 square metres.
Venues smaller than 600 square metres can have one person per 2 square metres, up to 150 patrons, provided that a COVID check-in marshal is present.
Smaller venues will still be able to host up to 25 people before applying the density quotient.
And live music will have greater numbers in pubs, clubs and other hospitality venues across the state too, but dance floors are still closed for now.
Players, parents and spectators can attend outdoor community sport within the total cap of 1,000 people.
Theatres will initially open at 50% capacity, with up to 1,000 people. And this weekend crowds can attend public events and outdoor stadiums with a limit of 50%, or up to 25,000 people.
From 11:59 pm Thursday:
Outdoor stadiums will be able to have 50 per cent of the venue capacity, up to 25,000 people.
This means there can be 15,000 people at the A-League grand final, and the MCG can host 25,000 people.
Indoor stadiums can have 50 per cent of the venue capacity, up to 5,000 people.
Theatres can have 50 per cent of venue capacity, up to 1,000 people.
But, subject to epidemiology and the advice of the Chief Health Officer, from 11:59 pm, 1 July, they’ll be able to host even bigger numbers:
That means 100% capacity at shows like Frozen at Her Majesty’s Theatre, and Harry Potter at the Princess Theatre.
And indoor and outdoor stadiums will be able to increase to 85 per cent capacity – so that includes the MCG, Marvel Stadium, and AAMI Park.
For the next week, we’re recommending that those travelling to Victoria’s alpine region get tested prior departing metropolitan Melbourne, especially if they’re staying overnight.
And there’s lots more detail online too, and this will give Victorians the confidence to make plans and enjoy the school holidays.
And if you’re taking some time off over the next few weeks, go out and explore your state.
Head to the bush, stay at the beach – shop in a small town, and buy Victorian made.
And everywhere you go, remember to check-in using the Service Victoria QR code, this is the seat belt we need as we open up the state.
And while we all deserve a break and a chance to explore our state, please remember – if you have even the mildest of symptoms, get tested.
If you’re catching up with mates and you’ve got a sore throat – go another night.
If you’re heading to the shops and you’ve got a runny nose – just order it online.
And if you’re finally seeing Mum and you’ve got a cough – remember who it is you’ve made all these sacrifices for.
Whatever your plans are, it’s not worth risking everything we’ve achieved – please get tested.
So, let’s protect it. For ourselves – and for each other.
Two former National Party leaders attempted to reignite their political careers in the past few days. John Anderson, leader from 1999 to 2005, was unsuccessful in his attempt to secure Senate pre-selection for New South Wales. In recent times Anderson has garnered considerable respect for his role in Australian public intellectual life with his web-based interview program, Conversations with John Anderson.
At the same time, Barnaby Joyce was successful in his attempt to regain the leadership of the federal Nationals. Joyce lost the leadership in 2018 following revelations of his affair with staffer Vikki Campion and other claims of sexual harassment, which he denies. Joyce is back after spending three years in the sin bin.
There are great contrasts between Anderson and Joyce. Anderson takes ideas seriously and has suffered a number of tragedies during his life, including the infant death of his youngest child. He is a man of great dignity and gravity and, at 64, would have been a great addition to the Australian Senate. He has no leadership ambitions
Barnaby Joyce is, well, Barnaby Joyce, a flamboyant populist who has the capacity to make Australian political life interesting and keep himself in the headlines. He is also a polarising figure. His return to the leadership of the Nationals occurred because he had the numbers, but the majority in his favour was thin.
Barnaby Joyce was successful in his attempt to regain the leadership of the federal Nationals; Picture Source: Twitter
At a time of great concern about the treatment of women in parliament, he would also appear to have “form”, and one must wonder what message his return to the leadership sends to the women of the bush. Of course, the reality is the National Party is so dominant in many of the seats it holds that Joyce’s reputation in such matters doesn’t really matter.
But the real question is: why has Joyce returned? The Liberal Party in recent times has changed leaders largely because the incumbent was perceived to have lost popularity with the electorate. This explains why Scott Morrison spends so much time in pursuit of public approval.
Barnaby Joyce was successful in his attempt to regain the leadership of the federal Nationals; Picture Source: Twitter
For the Nationals, the situation is different. They have a small, but fairly stable, number of seats, most of which they would be unlikely to lose, at least outside Queensland. The Nationals leader is not regularly scrutinised in terms of their popularity. The leader does not have to appeal to a wide range of people across the country, just to a certain constituency.
This means that fights over the leadership are generated largely by personal ambition and policy issues. In this case, the leadership change seems to have been all about Joyce’s desire to be leader and the issue of climate change.
There can be no doubt that Joyce’s colourful personality has an appeal in certain quarters. Certainly, Peta Credlin, herself a product of rural Australia, welcomed his return as Nationals leader. In a government full of grey bureaucratic types, perhaps personified by the likes of Greg Hunt and Josh Frydenberg, Joyce looks like someone brimming with energy, the sort of energy that appeals to non-metropolitan Australians.
This brings us back to the contrast between Anderson and Joyce. I find that students look back to the Howard era as one of stability before the period of flux and change that began with Kevin Rudd. This is a common perception. Anderson, as a leader from that period, symbolises a certain solidity that many would say has been lost.
Joyce, on the other hand, may well be judged by history as the sort of leader that the post-Howard era threw up; more about style than substance. Barnaby stands alongside Rudd, Abbott, Turnbull and Morrison as a symbol of the strange ways that developed in Australian political life since 2007
Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce and PM Scott Morrison; Picture Source: Twitter
If that is true, then the return of Joyce seems only to indicate that Australian politics is still caught in the culture that emerged in the post-Howard era. It is a political culture of personal ambition, a certain nastiness, as exemplified by the experiences of women in parliament and an obsession with popularity as expressed through polls.
The failure of the Nationals to find a place for John Anderson in its Senate team is another example of this political culture. At this point in time, we need sane sensible voices in our political life, voices that are not obsessed with personal ambition. Our politicians do not yet seem to have learned the lessons of the past 15 years.
Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara ensured there were no further hiccups in the third session on Tuesday as the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) final moved to the reserve day to decide the winner of the summit clash.
India finished the fifth day of the WTC final at 64/2 with the winner of the high-octane clash to be decided on Wednesday (reserve day). Tim Southee claimed the wickets of the Indian openers in the third and final of the fifth day of the WTC final against New Zealand. India has taken a lead of 32 with Kohli and Pujara unbeaten at 8 and 12 respectively. The duo will start the proceedings on Wednesday.
As many as 10 wickets fell in the day, with Mohammad Shami taking four of them
In the third session on Tuesday, Rohit Sharma got India off the mark as he played with soft hands for three runs. It was a slow start for India as the side scored 24 in the 10 overs. Tim Southee provided New Zealand with the breakthrough as he trapped Shubman Gill in front of the stumps for 8. Gill became Southee’s 600th international wicket.
Rohit and Cheteshwar Pujara then stitched a 27-run stand before Southee again struck dismissing the Indian opener.
A day of milestones at the Hampshire Bowl
-600 international wickets for Tim Southee (2nd NZ player) -Kane Williamson now NZ's 2nd highest Test run scorer (moved ahead of Fleming) -18,000 international runs for Ross Taylor (1st NZ player)#WTC21#StatChat#BACKTHEBLACKCAPSpic.twitter.com/gp6hbNdyyx
In the second session, New Zealand was bundled out for 249 in the first innings on Tuesday. Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma provided India with momentum before Ravichandran Ashwin removed Neil Wagner at the cusp of the tea as the Kiwis extended their lead before being bowled out for 249.
India was on top after the first session on Tuesday but New Zealand fought back to take a crucial first-innings lead.
Picture Source; Twitter @ICC
Southee and Trent Boult did frustrate the Indian bowlers, however, Ravindra Jadeja did the honours as he dismissed Southee to bundle out New Zealand for 249.
In the first session, Shami had scalped two while Ishant picked one wicket to put the Kiwis in a spot of bother at 135/5.
India had ended the opening session of the fifth day on a high after a quality display from pacers
Picture Source; Twitter @BCCI
Brief Scores: India 217 and 64/2 (Rohit Sharma 30, Cheteshwar Pujara 12*; Tim Southee 2/17); New Zealand 249 (Devon Conway 54; Ishant Sharma 3/48, Mohammed Shami 4/76)
Many shoppers have recently shared an image of a pack of Coles brand frozen Indian Style triangles on social media.
Coles’ Indian Style Triangles are vegetarian snacks that certainly look like the humble Indian samosa.
Image source: Facebook.
However, Australian shoppers were left clueless on social media as to why would Coles supermarket will give samosa a different name.
Image source: Samosa – Wikipedia.
Many shoppers have openly laughed and expressed disapproval of Coles’ new product.
Om uploaded the photo of the snack pack on a popular Facebook page ‘Subtle Curry Traits’ and captioned it:
“Seriously Australia?”
One commenter even posted:
‘Boycott Coles for cultural insensitivity and ruining a product of heritage?’
Image source: Facebook.
Now, Coles has responded to growing backlash over the Indian-style Triangle.
Coles has confirmed to Channel 7 that the supermarket still sells Vegetable Samosa and that the new Indian Style Triangles is an addition to the range.
“Our traditional Coles Vegetable Samosa’s are so popular with our customers that when we decided to add a new flavour to the range, we chose to give them a different name so customers could tell them apart easily.”
The spokesperson added that the new variety includes jackfruit and are “definitely” samosa.
Ravinder Sharma is the owner and chef at Indian Restaurant Food Punjabi. He told The Australia Today, Samosa is an Indian snack and it should be treated as such. “Well my question is tomorrow if they want to get a packed butter chicken what will they name it?”
WTC final: Rain plays spoilsport: Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Rain played spoilsport once again as Day Four of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand was abandoned without a ball being bowled on Monday.
“Update: Play on Day 4 abandoned due to rain. We thank our fans who turned up and kept the tempo high. See you again, tomorrow,” BCCI tweeted.
Day 1 of the ongoing final was also abandoned due to rain while Day 2 saw early stumps being called due to bad light. A call on using the Reserve Day will be taken on the fifth afternoon.
Earlier, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen advocated to not stage an “incredibly important cricket game” in the United Kingdom (UK) following constant interruptions caused by rain in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) final. “It pains me to say it, but a ONE-OFF & incredibly important cricket game should NOT be played in the UK,” Pietersen tweeted.
Jamieson was New Zealand’s hero on the third day as he claimed his fifth five-wicket haul in just eight Tests to help the Black Caps seize the initiative in the WTC final.
The 26-year-old Jamieson, who only made his Test debut against India in February 2020, secured the all-important wicket of Virat Kohli to prevent the skipper from adding to his overnight score of 44. However, rain forced him to keep busy with table tennis.
He also dismissed the dangerous Rishabh Pant (4) before taking the wickets of Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah in successive balls as India slumped to 217 all out from 92.1 overs.
In reply, openers Tom Latham (30) and Devon Conway (54) put their side in the driving seat with a 70-run partnership before India hit back late to leave the Black Caps on 101 for two at the close of play on the third evening.
7th International Yoga Day; Picture Source: Twitter @MEA
From Australia to Austria, and from Bhutan to Britain the Seventh International Day of Yoga was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the world on Monday.
Taking to Twitter, Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi shared a series of pictures, wherein people across the world can be seen performing different yoga postures.
“From Japan to Niger to Spain to the US! Indian Missions across the globe celebrate the 7th #InternationalDayOfYoga #YogaForWellness,” he said in a tweet.
Replying to him, PM Modi said, “Indians Missions across the world have marked #YogaDay with great enthusiasm. The Yoga sessions world over drew several people.”
Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Jamaica Kamina J Smith performed Yoga For Wellness and spreads awareness about the International Day of Yoga.
Meanwhile, India in Mauritius tweeted: “Yoga is of critical significance as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic”: Hon. Alan Ganoo, Foreign Minister of Mauritius speaks about the importance of #Yoga on the occasion of #IDY2021.”
Since 2014, International Yoga Day has been observed in mass gatherings in different parts of the country. This year, the theme of the occasion is ‘Yoga For Wellness’ and will focus on practising Yoga for physical and mental well-being.
The observation of International Yoga Day is a global activity and the preparatory activities normally start 3-4 months prior to June 21. Millions of people are introduced to Yoga in the spirit of a mass movement as part of IDY observation every year.
In Australia, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and even smaller towns like Ballarat and New Castle saw multiple programs organised on the occasion.
India the birthplace of ‘Yoga-Darshan’ celebrated the seventh International Day of Yoga, with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, several Indian Union Ministers and citizens across the country performed Yoga on the occasion.
However, the nation witnessed muted celebrations, and events were held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
#InternationalDayOfYoga greetings! Our ancient seers’ vision of bringing mind-body together to achieve holistic health and happiness has benefited millions over millennia. One of India’s great gifts to the world, it can be especially helpful during Covid-19. #BeWithYogaBeAtHomepic.twitter.com/pO91fOnBxE
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 21, 2021
India’s President Ram Nath Kovind performed yoga at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Taking on Twitter, the President termed Yoga as ‘India’s great gifts to the world’.
“International Day Of Yoga greetings! Our ancient seers’ vision of bringing mind-body together to achieve holistic health and happiness has benefited millions over millennia. One of India’s great gifts to the world, it can be especially helpful during Covid-19,” President Kovind tweeted with the has tag ‘BeWithYogaBeAtHome’.
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu performs Yoga at his official residence in Delhi with his wife Usha to mark the occasion. “This year’s theme ‘Yoga for well-being’ reflects the need to practice Yoga regularly for our holistic wellness as yoga improves both our physical and mental health,” tweeted the Vice President.
M-Yoga App is an effort to further popularise Yoga. It will also help realise our collective vision of ‘One World, One Health.’ pic.twitter.com/0IZ2lzHuBj
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the nation on the occasion, announced the launch of the M-Yoga app for yoga training videos that will be available worldwide in different languages and said that the application will play a ‘great role’ in expanding yoga across the globe.
Indian Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan performed Yoga at Maharaja Agrasen Park in Delhi. “Relevance of Yoga has increased during the COVID-19. Yoga has helped us to maintain our physical and mental health. We should make Yoga or other physical activities a part of our daily life. These will help us to increase our immunity against coronavirus,” Dr Harsh Vardhan said.
The US Department of State on Monday said that the ancient discipline connects people around the world, including over 37 people from the United States.
Taking to Twitter, the US State Department: “Happy #InternationalDayOfYoga! The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or unite. This ancient discipline from India connects people around the world, including over 37 million people in the United States who practise yoga.”
— Taranjit Singh Sandhu (@SandhuTaranjitS) June 20, 2021
Earlier, the Indian Embassy in the United States on Sunday celebrated the IDY 2021 at the India House, with the theme “Yoga for Wellness”. According to a press release, Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu welcomed the participants and stressed yoga’s potential to provide both health and happiness by improving the physical and mental well-being of people, especially given the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
On the occasion, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Volkan Bozkir said that yoga was a lifeline during the COVID-19 lockdown as it helps to maintain physical wellbeing and manage the stress of uncertainty and isolation. “The COVID 19 pandemic has clearly demonstrated the consequences of poor global health, the social and economic consequences have been devastating for many around the world. Yoga was a lifeline during lockdown,” Bozkir said in a statement on Monday.
Deeply appreciate the message on the relevance of Yoga from the President of @UN General Assembly H.E. Mr. @Volkan_Bozkir
Here’s how Bollywood celebs celebrated International Yoga Day 2021
From Amitabh Bachchan to Kareena Kapoor Khan and Shilpa Shetty, several Bollywood celebrities have taken to their social media accounts to send out their best wishes to everyone on the occasion of International Yoga Day on Monday.
Amitabh Bachchan posted a throwback picture of him practising. Along with it, he described yoga as the best friend of the body. Kareena Kapoor Khan is quite excited to resume yoga after giving birth to her second son a few months ago.
“For me, my yoga journey began in 2006 when I signed ‘Tashan’ and ‘Jab We Met’… an incredible one… which kept me fit and strong. Now after two babies and four months postpartum… this time I was just exhausted and in too much pain to get back but today I’m slowly and steadily getting back at it. My yoga time is my me time… and of course, consistency is key… so, keep at it people,” Kareena wrote on Instagram.
Actor Shilpa Shetty, who has been doing yoga for years now, listed the benefits of Bhramari Pranayama. “Happy World Yoga Day . BREATHE… it’s the most important function that the body performs. Breathing right helps provide oxygen to the organs to perform all the crucial processes, from cognition to digestion to strengthening the immune system,” she wrote.
“So, on World Yoga Day, let’s start by practising the Bhramari Pranayama. It helps generate up to 15% more nitric oxide through the vibrations of the humming sound, ‘Aum). This, in turn, helps early recovery and healing from Covid-19. Spare a few minutes to focus on your breathing today with the Bhramari Pranayama. It relaxes the mind and lowers stress while improving concentration and alleviating anxiety,” she added.
Malaika Arora explained the role of yoga in her life. “Namaste everybody! For me, it’s yoga day every day because yoga is a way of life as it has taught me so much more than I can pen down here. However, let me take this opportunity and wish all of you’ll a happy International Day Of Yoga,” she wrote.
Neetu Kapoor celebrated Yoga Day with her daughter Riddhima and granddaughter Samara. She took to Instagram to post pictures of the three generations doing yoga together at her home in Mumbai. “If there is one thing we have learnt in this pandemic, it’s the importance of physical and mental well being. And working towards health goals has never been so relevant,” she wrote.
“Hence, it is no surprise, the theme of this year’s, International Yoga Day 2021, is ‘Yoga at Home and Yoga with Family’. To celebrate Yoga’s holistic approach and to promote physical and mental health, but within constraints of social distancing, we practised yoga, as a family – Three generations together today! We wish you a happy world yoga day,” she added in the caption.
Alia Bhatt got the company of her cat while she was doing yoga today. Taking to Instagram, Alia posted a video of her performing different yoga asanas.
“Happy happy yoga day,” she wrote alongside the clip. Actor Sara Ali Khan also loves doing yoga. She described yoga as “the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.”
International Yoga Day is observed annually on June 21. The idea of the day was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 in the United Nations General Assembly Meeting.
Indian-Australian Professor Ajay Rane OAM has been recognised as #HealthHero by Queensland Health.
Prof. Rane holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Poona and a PhD from James Cook University (JCU).
Prof. Rane was born in United Kingdom to an affluent family.
At the age of five, his parents decided to move back to India with a desire to work and help the people in rural India.
He says, the family settled in a small village in the Jalgaon district of Maharashtra.
“I used to take a bus to my school which was twenty five kilometers away from home at a place called Bhusawal.”
Image source: Prof. Rane – Townsville Hospital and Health Service
Prof. Rane was a finalist Australian of the Year in 2012 and was awarded the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2013.
He has spent two decades treating and operating on women with catastrophic childbirth injuries in some of the world’s poorest countries.
In 2016, he received the Mahatma Gandhi Pravasi Award for Humanitarian Work in Women’s Health.
In May 2020, he also received an honorary fellowship from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologist for his work in advancing women’s health.
With the present recognition Prof. Rane has joined the ranks of Queensland Greats. ⠀
“One of the city’s most prominent surgeons, Townsville University Hospital’s Prof. Rane, was named a Queensland Great at an awards ceremony last week in Brisbane.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Image source: Prof. Rane – Townsville Hospital and Health Service
Queensland Health noted that for more than twenty years Prof Rane has galvanised the global medial community.
Prof. Rane has treated women, predominantly in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia, with fistula, the abnormal opening between the vagina and bladder or rectum caused by prolonged and obstructed labour.⠀
Image source: Professor Ajay Rane with doctors of the fistula clinic at the Dar e Salaam camp, Tanzania – Facebook.
Prof. Rane is employed at Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
“We are so proud of Professor Rane and everything he has achieved – not just here at our health service, but globally. He is a true star and we are lucky to have him here in the North!”⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Image source: Prof. Rane – Facebook
In an old interview, Prof. Rane said that although he does not plan to move back to India in the short-term, however he does not rule out going back either.
Prof. Rane feels that the culture, history and values of India are unparalleled in the world.
“And India today is a super-power in the making. One of the best places to invest.”
Image source: Prof. Ajay Rane – Facebook.
Since last year, Prof. Rane has delivered more than one hundred webinars to surgeons in operating theatres from Kenya to the Congo.
A former patient congratulated Prof. Rane on Facebook:
“Congratulations Professor Rane.We all know you are the best teacher and am always grateful you taught Dr. KANNON also.From a grateful patient.”
Others, also took this oportunity to wish Prof. Rane success in his career.
Australian shares rose for the fifth week in succession as technology shares continued their upbeat performance and offset losses in mining stocks.
Investors pumped money into tech stocks taking the technology index to a 6.8% weekly gain as sentiment was boosted by hopes of a strong economic recovery. Afterpay, as we mentioned before, provided the major boost and reached its highest levels in nearly seven weeks.
However, the gains were dented by gold stocks that lost 10.5% for the week, their biggest weekly loss since March 2020. Mining stocks also suffered as copper prices continued to decline by 5.9%, its biggest fall since Jan 2020.
Last week also brought some good news for the Australian market as 110,000 plus people found work between April and May, recording a fall in jobless numbers for the seventh month in a row, as the unemployment rate dropped to 5.1%. The unemployment rate in Australia is now lower than when CoVid19 hit the nation in March 2020 during which period Australia had a jobless rate of 5.3%.
Job ads in Australia have now reached levels not seen in 12 years, thus sparking fears among some businesses and recruitment firms of a workplace shortage.
The underemployment rate also fell to 7.4%, the lowest since its been since January 2014. Youth unemployment in May 2021 also reached its lowest point since January 2009.
All the positive momentum in the markets however seems to be coming to an end as a hawkish shift by the US Federal Reserve spooked the world markets on Friday night. The US Stocks ended a three-week winning streak as almost every sector shuddered. While the Australian market escaped the decline in world markets following comments from Jim Bullard, a member of the US Federal reserve, that increasing inflation in the US could result in an interest rate increase in 2022, the Australian stock futures are trading 1.5% below Friday’s close.
The decline in Australian futures after the Friday close strongly suggests that the Australian investors are jittery due to Bullard’s comments, which could further result in investor confidence in their positions getting dinged. Inflation worries in the US have resulted in a sell-off early this year. We will not be surprised to see the markets sell off a little bit again, especially given the strong run the Australian market has had and we enter a period of profit-taking.
The Fed stance also provided fuel to the US dollar as it rose against all major currencies. The US dollar index which tracks the greenback against six other major currencies recorded its strongest gain in 14 months as investors moved from other currencies to the safety of the US dollar.
The stronger dollar also meant gold was less attractive as an investment, resulting in gold prices having their worst week in almost a year. The weakness in gold is expected to continue in the near term and we see gold falling even below USD 1700 due to current short term selling pressure.
While the export of Swiss gold to China, the largest gold market in the world, remained strong for the second month in a row, a plunging demand of Swiss gold from India, the world’s second-largest gold consumer, in May Coronavirus added further pressure to gold prices.
Switzerland is the world’s largest gold refining centre and transit hub and its export numbers provide an insight into global market trends. Demand for gold in India and China both plunged when the pandemic began last year as jewellers were closed and people’s income took a hit. Initially, the Indian gold market started recovering faster; however, as the second wave hit India, it started losing its shine again. With China’s import of gold however rebounding in recent months, all world eyes are on India opening up for global gold prices to start rising again.
The Australian gold miners shall come under strong pressure this week with falling gold prices.
Oil which usually goes in the opposite direction of the US dollar though continued to rise recording a gain of 1.1% following reports from OPEN nations that they expected limited output growth for the US this year. Despite the US returning to pre-pandemic life completely after a strong vaccination rive, the OPEC nations are cautious over increasing output and making commitments towards more wells. As such even though all other commodities have had a sell-off last week oil prices being supported by a disciplined supply continue to rise.
Following Fed comments, the strong US dollar meant traders drove out in flocks from risk currencies such as the Australian dollar last week. The Australian dollar broke the key 0.75 cent mark against the greenback on Friday night in the process of reaching its lowest price against the US dollar since December and giving control to the bears. Strong eye-popping jobless numbers from Australia and growth numbers from New Zealand did little to stop the slide with traders becoming reluctant to buy the Aussie against US dollars.
With bears taking control over the Australian dollar we expect it to also go down against the Indian Rupee next week and go below the INR 55 mark. The Indian Rupee, however, dropped to 74.08 against the US dollar, its weakest level since early May. We expect the Rupee to continue showing weakness against the US dollar and strength against the Australian dollar over the next week.
In the world of Cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin once again failed to breach the resistance around USD 41,000 mark. News from Spanish Bank BBVA that it would open a bitcoin trading service to all private banking clients in Switzerland failed to provide the expected lift as prices fell back to $34,000 at the time of writing this report.
As we mentioned last week Bitcoin is currently firmly ranged between USD 30,066 and 41,000. It would need to quickly rise back to at least $42,812 for bulls to take back control and rally it back to previous highs. Etherium showed positive results early in the week, however, Fed’s comments on Friday have resulted in a broad sell down across all Cryptocurrencies too during the week as more and more traders move towards the US dollar. Ether prices though in the near term seem to cap at USD 2487.
China’s crackdown of cryptocurrency mining in Sichuan and similar crackdowns in Inner Mongolia, Xingjiang and Yunnan to meet their pollution targets for the year may also add to price weakness in Bitcoin in coming weeks. Even though some of these regions use hydropower instead of coal power China seems to be in no mood to end the digital war against these currencies and taking measures like stopping immediate electricity supplies to crypto mines they have detected.
In agriculture products we talked about a shift from corn to soybean recently due to high corn prices. This reflected in May figures which showed an increase of 82% in China’s import of soybean from Brazil. Chinese state-owned importers also bought at least eight cargoes of US Soybean in past 4.5 month. The soybean prices as a result continued to rally on Friday after a tumble on Thursday. The soybean imports to China from all origins are expected to remain high in coming months.
Wheat prices took a tumble to last week, however recovered some of the losses as Iranian state agency purchased 195,000 tonnes of milling wheat from European traders. Philippines have also reported to have bought 150,000 tonnes of wheat as told by European traders on Friday.
The wheat market is keeping a close eye on Jordan this week which is expected to issue a tender to buy 120,000 tonnes of milling wheat through a tender with shipment sought in December.
Author:
Ateev Dang is a trader and trading coach by profession. He runs Glow trades Pty Ltd where he teaches anyone who is interested in starting on their trading journey on how to trade. He can be contacted at adang@glowtrades.com.au.
Disclaimer:
The writers’ opinion in the above article are their own and do not constitute any financial advice whatsoever. Nothing published by The Australia Today constitutes an investment recommendation, nor should any data or content publication be relied upon for any investment activities.
We strongly recommend that you perform your own independent research and/or speak with a financial advisor or qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
R Ashwin at WTC final: Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
Devon Conway and Kane Williamson managed to frustrate the Indian bowlers and as a result, New Zealand came out on top on Day Three of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) final at the Ageas Bowl on Sunday.
At stumps on Day Three, New Zealand’s score reads 101/2 with Williamson (12*) and Ross Taylor (0*) unbeaten at the crease. The Kiwis are still trailing India by 116 runs. Resuming the third session on Day Three at 36/0, New Zealand openers Latham and Conway continued from where they left off and the duo frustrated the Indian bowling attack.
Devon Conway at WTC final: Picture Source: Twitter @ICC
The 70-run opening stand finally came to an end in the 35th over as Ravichandran Ashwin dismissed Latham (30), who played far away from his body, and just managed to hand a simple catch to skipper Virat Kohli.
Skipper Kane Williamson then joined Conway in the middle and the duo kept on ticking the scoreboard slowly and steadily. Both batters put on 31 runs for the second wicket, but the stand finally came to an end in the 49th over as Ishant Sharma sent Conway (54) back to the pavilion, reducing New Zealand to 101/2.
Taylor then joined Williamson in the middle and the duo ensured that New Zealand did not lose more wickets before the close of play. Bad light once again played spoilsport and early stumps were called on Day Three.
Earlier, Latham and Conway grinded it out in the middle after New Zealand bundled out India for 217 in the second session on Day Three of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) final.
Devon Conway's first innings scores in Test cricket:
At tea break on Day Three, New Zealand’s score read 36/0 with Latham (17*) and Conway (18*) unbeaten at the crease. Earlier in the session, India was bowled out for 217 as Kyle Jamieson scalped five wickets.
For India, Ajinkya Rahane top-scored with a knock of 49 runs. Skipper Virat Kohli also chipped in with a knock of 44 runs. For New Zealand, Neil Wagner and Trent Boult took two wickets each while Tim Southee scalped one.
New Zealand had won the toss and opted to bowl first in the WTC final against India. Day 1 of the WTC final was abandoned due to rain and Day 2 also saw the final session being called off early due to bad light.
Brief Scores: India 217 all out (Ajinkya Rahane 49, Virat Kohli 44, Kyle Jamieson 5-31); New Zealand 101/2 (Devon Conway 54, Kane Williamson 12*, Ishant Sharma 1-19).
Jodha Akbar poster; Picture Source: Supplied PR photo
E.H.Carr defines History in his book What is History? that ‘it is a continuous process of interaction between the historian and his facts, an unending dialogue between the present and the past, where historian collects all the facts available in sources, organise them in a coherent fashion and fills the gaps with his understanding and imagination’.
As objective history is a myth so do our Bollywood historical movies have some fictional elements attached to them. In Ashutosh Gowariker’s film, Jodha-Akbar (2008) came into controversy over the identity of Jodha Bai.
Where does history place Jodha Bai: Akbar’s wife or daughter-in-law? This historical epic had re-ignited the debate that does cinematic liberty have the right to distort the historical facts for presenting suspected romantic love story. Jodha Akbar portrayed on bigger than life canvas with lavish production, huge sets, luxurious costumes and ostentatious jewellery to shoot the biggest Bollywood star cast. Aishwarya Rai played the role of Jodha bai against Hrithik Roshan as the Mughal emperor Jalaluddin Muhammed Akbar. This movie told the romantic love story of Akbar with Jodha and reveals how did he win the heart of Jodha bai. But, historically the identity of Jodha bai is in itself suspected.
Jodha Akbar poster; Picture Source: Supplied PR photo
Who was Jodha Bai? Ashutosh Gowariker has misinterpreted the name of Jodha Bai. She was Amber Raja Bharmal’s daughter and Akbar’s wife. Akbar tied the knot with her in 1562. Her identity is bewildered by historical records.
Who all were the wives of Akbar? Henry Blochmann edited Abul Fazl’s Ain-i-Akbari gives the names of just seven of Akbar’s wives[1]. They were Sultan Ruqayya Begum, a daughter of Mirza Hindal; Sutan Salima Begum, the widow of Bairam Khan; Harkha Bai, daughter of Bhar Mal, the Raja of Amber; Abdul Wasi’s divorced wife married to Akbar; daughters of Abdulla Khan Mughal (1564) and Miran Mubarak Shah (1565) and lastly, mentioned Bibi Daulat Shad.
Jodha Akbar poster; Picture Source: Supplied PR photo
Historically Abul Fazl’s Ain-i-Akbari and Akbarnama, and in Jahangir’s Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri never stated that Akbar had married any women named Jodha Bai. Even in Badauni’s Muntakhib-al-Tawarikh the name Jodha Bai is missing. Rima Hooja in her book, A History of Rajasthan, ‘Bharmal entered an alliance with Akbar by offering the hand of his daughter in marriage to the Mughal Emperor(Akbar) the marriage ceremony (which included full Hindu rituals) seems to have been solemnized at Sambhar.
The title of ‘Mariam-uz-Zamani was bestowed on the new queen. She is called Jiya Rani, Maanmati, Harika, and ‘Shahi-Bai’ in different sources, but is popularly known today as ‘Jodha Bai’.
Jodha Akbar poster; Picture Source: Supplied PR photo
Abul Fazl and Nizam-ud-din Ahmad’s text note that she was princess Harika, Bharmal’s eldest daughter and that her mother was Bharmal’s Solanki clan wife, Rani Chandravati. This alliance with Akbar undoubtedly influenced the rise of pre-eminence of the Kachchwaha ruling house of Amber at the Mughal Court’. However, the name of Jodha Bai is suspected by many historians.
The mystery of the name ‘Jodha Bai’ and who was the lady married to Jahangir? K.S. Lal describes the real identity of Jodha in his book The Mughal Harem where he wrote ‘Jahangir’s third marriage in 1586 with Jagat Gosain, Jodh Bai, Man Bai or Mira Bai, daughter of the Mota Raja Udai Singh and granddaughter of Raja Maldeva of Marwar. Jodh Bai was known for her intelligence, soft voice and ready wit. She died within the lifetime of Jahangir, who bestowed upon her the title of Bilqis Makani posthumously[2].
This fact is corroborated by veteran historian Satish Chandra in class IX NCERT Medieval India history textbooks where he mentions that ‘Udai Singh married his daughter, Jagat Gosain or Jodha Bai as she came to be called, to Akbar’s eldest son Salim (Jahangir) and during her marriage many Hindu practices were followed’.
Beni Prasad in his book History of Jahangir, also wrote that ‘No chronicle mentions the Rajput name of Jahangir’s mother. Jahangir was the son of Akbar and Harkha, the daughter of Bharmal, the raja of Amber is confused with the identity of Shah Jahan’s mother, named Jagat Gosain, a granddaughter of Raja Maldeo of Jodhpur.
What role does Jodha Bai play in the Mughal court? James Tod answered this question in his book Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan[3], Jodh Bai is a title, meaning ‘Jodhpur lady’. There were some doubts about her identity, but she was certainly the daughter of Udai Singh and the wife of Jahangir. This Jodha Bai played significant a role in the politics of Amber as Tod mentions that ‘at the instigation of the celebrated Jodha Bai (daughter of Rae Singh of Bikaner), the Rajputni wife of Jahangir, Jai Singh, grandson of Jagat Singh (brother of Maan Singh), was raised to the throne of Amber.
This historical fact is also corroborated by Kalyan Kumar Ganguli’s Cultural History of Rajasthan, ‘Jodha Bai, a Rathor princess of Bikaner married to Jahangir, having considerable influence in court affair, helped Jai Singh a grandson of Jagat Singh, brother of Maan Singh to gain the throne of Amber’. He also mentions that the magnificent tomb of Jodh Bai, the mother of Shah Jahan, is at Sikandra, near Agra.
Akbar Tomb, Agra, India; Picture Source: @CANVA
Uncertainty over the name of Jodha Bai had led to political debate in Rajasthan, where a section of the Rajput community accused Gowariker’s Jodha-Akbar Akbar of distorting the historical facts. They believed that neither Jodha was Akbar’s wife, nor was she Jaipur princess but she actually belongs to Jodhpur and was the wife of Jahangir. On the other hand, the royal families of Jaipur and Kishangarh came in support of the film where they agree that Akbar married a Jaipur princess (Raja Bharmal’s daughter).
This controversy has once again raised the question that do filmmakers have the right to present false realities and duping the audiences with their own personal hallucinations.
Bollywood in past have witnessed movies based on historical events. Movies like Loves of a Mughal Prince (1928), Sikander (1941), Anarkali (1953), Mughal-e-Azam (1960), Ashoka (2001) and Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005), etc. have projected the names of historical characters and unveiled the significant historical event.
One needs to find the answer to certain questions related to such movies.
Why such movies always come into controversy prior to their release?
Who are the people who provoke this controversy?
Is this a promotional formula to generate curiosity among the audience to assure a grand opening?
No doubt the controversy brings the movie into the limelight and ensures opening at the box office. But, this tactic could never assure success without the overwhelming public response.
What does an audience expect from a historically inspired movie? As far as the audience’s expectation from a movie is concerned, it depends upon their age, taste and preferences. No doubt there would be a substantial group of intellectuals who would be interested in knowing the actual facts of Indian History. But substantial Bollywood fans go into theatres expecting a complete three-hour entertainment package.
Thus, Jodhaa-Akbar biggest star cast, Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had driven more and more youngsters to the theatre. Their Mughal Rajput royal outlook was fun to watch for the generation next.
However, how much they will learn about Indian history is in dilemma which needs a clarification where Jodha Bai is still struggling for her identity.
Author: Dr Sakul Kundra, A.HOD Department of Social Science at Fiji National University
Dr Sakul Kundra; Picture Source: Supplied
Disclaimer: The views expressed are his own and not of The Australia Today or his employer. For comments or suggestions, email. dr.sakulkundra@gmail.com
watch for COVID-19 symptoms and get retested should any symptoms recur
even if you get a negative test, you must stay in isolation for 14 days as it can take 14 days before you may show symptoms or test positive.
Download table information as:
Suburb
Venue
Address
Date and time
Health advice
Bondi Junction
David Jones Bondi, Level 1
500 Oxford Street
11:15am to 11:50am on Saturday 12 June 2021 3.55pm – 4.15pm on Tuesday 15 June 2021
Anyone who attended level 1, the bedding, manchester, homewares and small appliances section of this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate for 14 days regardless of the result.
Bondi Junction
Event Cinemas Bondi Junction
500 Oxford Street
1.30pm to 4pm on Sunday 13 June 2021
Anyone who attended the 1:45pm Screening of Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard in Cinema 1 is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate for 14 days regardless of the result. Anyone who attended any other screening at the cinema during this time is a casual contact and must get tested and self-isolateuntil they receive a negative result. You should continue to monitor for symptoms and if any symptoms occur, get tested again.
Anyone who attended level 2 and 4 during the time listed is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate for 14 days regardless of the result. This includes staff and patrons. Level 2 includes women’s sleepwear, shoes, lingerie, handbags, accessories, watches & cosmetics. Level 4 includes homewares, toys and kidswear. Anyone who attended during the time but did not go to level 2 or 4 is not a contact.
Bondi Junction
Sourdough Bakery
500 Oxford Street
12:35pm to 12:50pm on Friday 11 June 2021
Anyone who sat in the Sourdough Bakery seating area on Friday 11 June from 12.35pm – 12.50pm is considered a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate for 14 days regardless of the result. Anyone who attended Bondi Junction Westfield. level 4 on Friday 11 June between 12.30pm – 1pm shuuld monitor for symptoms.
Bondi Junction
Sourdough Bakery
500 Oxford Street
12:40pm to 1:10pm on Friday 11 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
Campbelltown
The Alkalizer
Campbelltown Council Building, 91 Queen Street
9am to 10am on Tuesday 15 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
Leichhardt
Harris Farm Leichhardt
Shop B1, 51-57 Norton Street
9:50am to 10:05am on Tuesday 15 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue must immediately call NSW Health on 1800 943 553, get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
Anyone who attended this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
North Ryde
Cemetery Cafe Macquarie Park
Macquarie Park Cemetery, Corner Delhi Road and Plassey Road
1pm to 1:20pm on Tuesday 15 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
North Sydney
Greenwood Grocer
Greenwood Plaza Lower Level, 71/36 Blue Street
5pm to 5:20pm on Tuesday 15 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue is a casual contact and must get tested and self-isolate until they receive a negative result. You should continue to monitor for symptoms and if any symptoms occur, get tested again.
Northmead
Northmead Bowling Club
166 Windsor Road
3:30pm to 10pm on Sunday 13 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue must immediately call NSW Health on 1800 943 553, get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
Anyone who attended this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
Vaucluse
Belle Cafe
103 New South Head Road
9:15am to 9:50am on Friday 11 June 2021 10:20am to 10:45am on Saturday 12 June 2021 1:20pm to 1:50pm on Saturday 12 June 2021 11.30am to 12pm on Sunday 13 June 2021 9:50am to 10:25am on Tuesday 15 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
Vaucluse
Rocco’s
103B Laguna Street
10:55am to 11:30am on Monday 14 June 2021
Anyone who attended this venue is a close contact and must immediately get tested and self-isolate. Remain in isolation until further advice is provided by NSW Health.
Masks to be mandatory on Greater Sydney public transport as NSW records one new COVID-19 case
New South Wales has recorded one new COVID-19 case overnight, as health officials continue to monitor the growth of Sydney’s eastern suburbs cluster.
Queues at testing sites in Sydney after new exposure sites listed a second new case of coronavirus was detected last night in Bondi as the list of exposure sites grew to include cafes, department stores, a movie theatre and a car wash.https://t.co/EdaPcps7yw cc @WgarNewspic.twitter.com/NVvWFgZj4w
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that masks will be mandatory on public transport in Greater Sydney from 4 pm on Friday and strongly encouraged at indoor venues.
What you need to know–
Masks mandatory on public transport from 4 pm, June 18
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has filed a petition in Calcutta High Court.
She has challenged the election of BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari from Nandigram.
The Chief Minister, who had contested from the seat had lost the election by less than 2,000 votes.
Image source: Suvendu Adhikari and Mamta Banerjee – Wikipedia
According the NDTV, in her petition, Ms Banerjee sought that Suvendu Adhikari’s election be declared void under on three grounds – commission of corrupt practices including bribery, promotion of hatred and enmity, seeking votes on the basis of religion and booth capture; there were also discrepancies in the counting procedure and discrepancies and non-compliance in Form 17C, which is the account of votes recorded and the result of counting.
Mamta Banarjee’s lawyer Sanjay Bose said they sought an order of striking down the election of Nandigram.
Image source: BJP’s Amit Malviya – Twitter.
BJP’s Amit Malviya responded to the Chief Minister’s petition on twitter:
Chief Minster’s petition further read:
“Suvendu Adhikari has indulged in several corrupt practices that have enhanced his winning chances and materially altered Ms Mamata Banerjee’s chances of success in the election.”
Image source: Mamta Banerjee – Wikipedia
Indicating possible irregularities, the Chief Minster told the reporters that the election officer who oversaw counting in the constituency was threatened.
“I received an SMS from someone wherein Returning Officer of Nandigram has written to someone if he allows recounting then his life would be under threat. I can’t order recount. My family will be in ruin. I have a little daughter…”
Later, Mamata Banerjee had said she accepted the verdict of the people of Nandigram, pointing to the landslide victory for her party.
“Don’t worry about Nandigram, I struggled for Nandigram because I fought a movement. It’s ok. Let the Nandigram people give whatever verdict they want, I accept that. I don’t mind. We have won the state.”
However, she warned that she would go to the Supreme Court over the way the election was conducted by the Election Commission.
“I’ll appeal to all political parties. We will go jointly to the Supreme Court and we will ask the constitution bench. There must be some limitation, some laxman rekha for the Election Commission also.”
The Chief Minister has filed a case three days ago and now the matter will be heard by Justice Kausik Chanda.
Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma on Thursday shared a series of black-and-white pictures from the venue of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, set to begin Today.
The ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil ‘ actor took to her Instagram handle and shared the pictures along with the caption, “A ‘take random photos and think of a quirky caption’ kind of post.” In the monochrome pictures, Anushka sported a striped long shirt paired with black pants and a face mask.
Anushka shared the ‘random photos’ as her husband and Indian captain Virat Kohli prepares for the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The final will begin on Friday at the Ageas Bowl and is scheduled to go on until Tuesday, with Wednesday kept as a reserve day.
Meanwhile, on the work front, Anushka has been away from the limelight for the past two years. She was last seen in ‘Zero’ with Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. She has recently produced two acclaimed projects – Amazon Prime Video web series ‘Pataal Lok’ and Netflix movie ‘Bulbul’.
Shefali Verma; IndiaVsEngland Test; Picture Source: Twitter @BCCI Women
India openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma scripted a stunning opening stand but made five quick wickets in the final hour of play brought England back in the game on Thursday.
England finished day two on top with five wickets in the final session despite a solid opening stand by the Indian openers. The visitors went to stumps at 187/5 with Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma unbeaten on four and zero respectively.
India was right on track to register a mammoth total but England struck late to snatch the driver’s seat as the visitors lost four wickets in the last half an hour. Punam Raut, skipper Mithali Raj, and Shikha Pandey all went cheaply as India wobbled at the end before the close of day’s play.
Earlier, England resumed their innings from 269/6 but suffered an early jolt as Jhulan Goswami dismisses Katherine Brunt in the 94th over. Meanwhile, Sophia Dunkley hit a fifty on Test debut as England scored their highest total against India Women.
The visitors declared at 396/9 registering their sixth-highest total in all women’s Tests. Mandhana and Shafali then got India off to a great start as the duo scored 63 runs together without losing a wicket before Tea.
Smriti Mandhana; IndiaVsEngland Test; Picture Source: Twitter @BCCI Women
In the third session, Mandhana and Shafali continued their fine form and first brought up the 100-run stand and then registered India Women’s highest opening stand in Tests. The duo passed the 153-run partnership between Gargi Banerji and Sandhya Agarwal against Australia in Mumbai in 1984.
However, Shafali fell four runs short of a Test century and her wicket triggered a collapse. India collapsed from 167/0 to 183/5 before the second day’s play concluded.
Brief Scores: England Women 396/9d (Heather Knight 95, Sophia Dunkley 74, Sneh Rana 4-131) vs India Women 187/5 (Smriti Mandhana 78, Shafali Verma 96; Heather Knight 2-1)
Image source: Bindi Chouhan on council poster in Epsom - Facebook
Bindi Chouhan who is a Love Food Hate Waste workshop leader and a yoga/meditation instructor was recently featured in Stuff.co.nz for her unique sustainable lifestyle.
Image source: Bindi Chouhan – Facebook.
Bindi lives with her immediate and extended family consisting of seven members in Titirangi, Auckland.
Her family generate less than five rubbish bins worth of waste per year,.
Bindi is a fourth generation Indian-Zimbabwean who moved to New Zealand in 2003.
“THERE WERE A LOT OF ADJUSTMENTS WE NEEDED TO MAKE FROM LIVING IN A LARGE FAMILY OF MORE THAN TWENTY TO BEING JUST FOUR OF US. MY MUM USED TO COOK MOST OF THE MEALS BACK IN AFRICA, AND THE BIGGEST THING SHE NEEDED TO READJUST WAS THE MEAL SIZE.WE WOULD BE EATING LEFTOVERS FOR DAYS”
In Zimbabwe, she grew up in a micro village of extended family members of about 25 people who ate a plant-based diet.
“My parents, grandparents, uncles, aunties and cousins were always making use of everything. Nothing was ever just thrown out.”
In New Zealand, Bindi and her husband share a small cottage that they built themselves.
Bindi started work as a sustainability travel coordinator, acting on behalf of Auckland Transport within school communities, then became a yoga/breath-work teacher.
Image source: Bindi Chouhan – Facebook.
Bindi’s first goal was that her household needs to reduce their kerbside rubbish bin.
The initial plan was to go from fortnightly to just once a month.
“The pace of life has changed for everyone. Immediate convenience feels better, but then once you take the steps to reduce your waste, you realise that taking on one challenge at a time and putting some effort into it makes a difference.”
Soon, the family has restarted growing their own food, herbs and the vegetables.
Now, Bindi estimates that their weekly spend is about $100 which is for lentils, grains, flour, and cheese.
Australia’s unemployment rate has dropped sharply from 5.5 to 5.1 per cent, below pre-pandemic levels, with an estimated 115,200 jobs created in May.
Full-time employment increased by 97,500 in May, while part-time employment rose by 17,700.
This increase is for the first time since Australia’s borders were shut and mass lockdowns began.
Image source: Bjorn Jarvis – Facebook.
Bjorn Jarvis, the head of labour statistics at the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), said the unemployment rate was now lower than it was in March 2020.
“”The unemployment rate fell to 5.1 per cent, which was below March 2020 (5.3 per cent) and back to the level in February 2020 (5.1 per cent). The declining unemployment rate continues to align with the strong increases in job vacancies”
The number of unemployed people fell by 53,000 in May, down to 701,000.
According to a research conducted by the Commonwealth Bank, Australia had already lost close to 300,000 short-term migrant workers in the year to March.
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has said Australia has recovered better than any other advanced economy in the world.
“We saw Australia ahead of any advanced economy in the world see its economy bigger than it was going into the pandemic. Australians know we are still in the middle of a once in a century pandemic. There is a long way to go. But the Australian economy is recovering strongly.”
The Morrison government has hinted that Australia will remain closed for another year.
Reprentative Picture: Australian Worker; Picture Source @CANVA
The Fair Work Commission has announced a 2.5 per cent increase in the minimum wage and related award minimum wages.
“The increase applies to anyone who is paid minimum award wages or the national minimum wage.”
This will take the minimum wage for Australian workers to $20.33 an hour.
For full-time workers this increase means earning $772.60 per week.
Image source: Fair Work Commission president Justice Iain Ross – Fair Work Commission.
Fair Work Commission President Justice Iain Ross said explaining the decision:
“There was a broad consensus in the submissions before us that the current performance of the economy has exceeded expectations and that the economic recovery is well underway.”
The Australian Council for Trade Unions (ACTU) had been pushing for a 3.5 per cent minimum wage rise, while the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) had been arguing for a 1.1 per cent pay increase.
“For workers on the minimum wage it’s not going to be enough to keep up with the cost of living…Especially those who have worked throughout the pandemic and whose employers have posted record profits.”
ACCI’s acting CEO, Jenny Lambert told the ABC that the wage increase was “premature and irresponsible”:
“Australians who have managed to battle on through, keep their business afloat and keep people in work now face a highly risky hike in wages — always their biggest cost.”
“The Fair Work Commission has announced the minimum wage will go up by 2.5 per cent, taking the hourly rate to $20.33.Labor welcomes the increase, which the union movement has fought hard for. But the increase may well have been higher if the Government had lifted a finger to advocate for a rise. It refused to do so.This is a Government that has given Australian workers eight long years of stagnant wages – and is still doing absolutely everything it can to keep them down.”
The FWC will now issue draft determinations and orders about how this decision affects awards before updating the pay rates in each award.
According to the FWC, the increase doesn’t affect employees who already get paid more than their new minimum wage.
The new national minimum wage will apply from 1 July 2021.However, the boost for some industries – aviation, fitness, tourism and certain retail sector – will be impacted and delayed by COVID19 related restrictions.
From 11.59 pm Thursday 17 June, the 25km travel limit will be removed and travel between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria will resume.
Home Visitors: Two visitors per day (plus dependents) will be permitted to gather inside the home in metro Melbourne, and up to five people (plus dependents) in regional Victoria.
Outdoor: Twenty people can gather outside in Melbourne, and 50 in regional Victoria. Masks will continue to be required indoors but they are no longer required outdoors – however, they’ll still be recommended when you can’t maintain physical distancing.
In Melbourne, Funerals can be held with up to 75 mourners, Weddings no more than 20 – and 100 mourners and 50 wedding guests in regional Victoria.
Gyms can open across Melbourne, with density limits and COVIDSafe plans in place. Hair and beauty services can now operate without masks during service.
These are positive changes, but it’s important to note that there are still some differences between regional and metropolitan settings.
Health authorities are urging, ” have not seen cases at all in regional Victoria. But knowing what we do about how infectious the Delta and Kappa strains are, and how quickly we saw them move through the community prior to the lockdown, we must remain vigilant.”
To keep the regional Victoria virus free the public health team have recommended slightly stronger settings for Melbourne as extra protection while they run down any remaining cases.
These rules mean that people will now be able to travel across the state, but also recognise that the majority of interactions in regional Victoria will be between regional Victorians.
Melburnians travelling to the snow this season: A requirement for everyone to get a COVID test within 72 hours of departing for Victoria’s alpine resorts, and a negative result.
International experience has shown us that there is a high risk of spread in cold climates, where people come together to socialise and spend time indoors after a day out on the slopes.
Acting Premier James Merlino said, “There will be plenty more detail online, and if cases continue to remain low, we’ll be able to ease restrictions further in another week.”
“But as we’ve said many times – this isn’t over.”
We all know better than most just how easily this virus takes hold and keeping on top of the situation means that we all have to protect our freedoms, he added.
Mr Merlino also stressed the importance of the COVID test, “But it’s no exaggeration to say the single most important thing every single Victorian can do is to get tested as soon as they have even the mildest of symptoms.”
“We can’t assume that a scratchy throat is the sign of a winter cold. Find out for sure – get tested.”
He said, “Victoria’s at its best when we’re together.”
“And I know we’re all waiting to see those people and places we’ve missed, which is why, on the advice of the Chief Health Officer, Victoria will soon safely begin coming back together.”
Instagram has officially informed the Delhi High Court that it removed objectionable content relating to Hindu gods and goddesses.
Image source: Delhi High Court – Wikipedia.
According to NDTV, the petitioner Aditya Singh Deshwal submitted that he found highly obnoxious or objectionable posts put up allegedly by a user named as ‘Islam Ki Sherni.’
Deshwal said that the content uploaded on Instagram presented abusive language written about Hindu gods and goddesses along with their vulgar representation in the form of cartoons and graphics.
Deshwal was represented through senior advocate G. Tushar Rao and lawyer Ayush Saxena.
They sought that the content should be removed at the earliest from Instagram.
The plea also sought direction to Instagram to preserve all the details associated with these user accounts.
The petitioners argued that these should be placed before the court to expose the identity of culprits behind these objectionable posts.
He further assured the court that the respondents will not disseminate the copies of the petition to any unrelated third party.
Facebook has also appointed Spoorthi Priya as their Grievance Officer under the new IT Rules to look after both Instagram and Facebook.
While, Facebook owned messaging platform WhatsApp has appointed Paresh B. Lal as the grievance officer.
According to the new guidelines of the Indian government, all social media companies with more than fifty lakh users have to appoint a grievance officer, nodal officer and a chief compliance officer.
By end of May, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Google had shared information on their compliance officer, resident grievance officer and nodal contact person with the Indian government.
It’s been a year since Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput left for his heavenly abode. And now on his first death anniversary, several members from the Indian film and TV industry took to social media to pay their tributes to the late star.
Actor Kriti Sanon has shared a collage of her pictures with Sushant from their first look test for the movie ‘Raabta’.
“The first time I ever shot with you.. Our look test.. 2 complete strangers, meant to cross each other’s path, For a film that spoke of inexplainable connection, Based in two worlds… Today, it feels so painfully weird to know that you and I are not in the same world anymore.. Still feels like it hasn’t happened for real. Like maybe you are still around and I’ll bump into you somewhere.”
“I don’t think it’ll ever sink in.. But i pray that you are happy and at peace in whichever world you are in,” Kriti added.
Kriti and Sushant had reportedly dated each other while working together on ‘Raabta’. Kriti’s younger sister and singer Nupur Sanon also posted an emotional post in Sushant’s memory. She shared a picture of Sushant and her taking a nap together.
“A year has passed… still can’t believe …Sushi all I hope is that you are safe, at peace just like you look in this pic and smiling like a child up there,” she wrote on Instagram Stories.
Sushant’s ‘Chhichhore’ co-star Shraddha Kapoor took to Instagram Stories and wrote, “Shine on, dearest Sush.”
Shraddha was among the few Bollywood celebs to attend Sushant’s funeral last year.
Actor Priyanka Chopra Jonas shared a picture of Sushant on her Instagram Stories and captioned, “Thinking of you”.
Sushant’s first death anniversary has made filmmaker Abhishek Kapoor extremely emotional. “1 year today..Still numb #OmNamahShivaya,” Abhishek, who directed Sushant’s first Bollywood film ‘Kai Po Che’, wrote on Instagram.
“Bhai,” actor Rajkummar Rao wrote on Instagram Story, adding a photograph of Sushant. Sara Ali Khan recalled how Sushant was always there for her whenever she needed any help.
“Whenever I needed help, advice or a laugh you were always there. You introduced me to the world of acting, made me believe that dreams could come true, and gave me all that I have today, “Sara, who acted opposite Sushant in ‘Kedarnath’, wrote on Instagram.
“Still can’t believe you’re gone. But every time I look at the stars, the rising sun or the moon I know you’re here. From Kedarnath to Andromeda.”
Actor Karan Wahi posted a video featuring a bunch of his unseen pictures with the late actor.
“Memories are all I have of you. My prayers have everything I wanted to say to you. My friend,My brother may you be on your eternal journey and find happiness where ever you are. I miss you bhai,” Karan posted on Instagram.
In Australia, the Vedic Global group organised an online Havan. Melbourne based group paid their tribute to Sushant with his favourite food.
Picture Source: Facebook @VedicGlobal
Sushant had started his journey as an actor with the TV show ‘Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil’. However, Zee TV’s ‘Pavitra Rishta’ made him a household favourite.
After working on the show for a few years, Sushant moved to Bollywood and carved his niche with films like ‘Kai Po Che!’, ‘M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story’, ‘PK’, ‘Kedarnath’ and ‘Chhichhore’. He was only 34 when he breathed his last.
The family members of Zionghaka, the head of the world’s largest family are not ready to bid him final goodbye and claimed that he was “still very much alive”.
According to the Republic TV, the family has refused to perform the last rites as they claim his body is still warm with a beating pulse.
Image source: Chief Minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga – Twitter.
The Chief Minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga, has confirmed the death of Zionghaka.
The 76-year-old with 39 wives, over 90 children and at least 33 grandchildren, headed a religious sect Lalpa Kohhran that allows polygamy for men in Mizoram.
According to Chhuanthar village council president Ramzuava, over 2,500 members belonging to 433 families form part of the sect, which was founded by the Zion-a”s uncle around 70 years ago.
“All of them hold the septuagenarian in high regard, and would not want to perform his last rites until they are convinced that he is gone.”
Image source: Zionghaka – Wikipedia.
Zionghaka’s family live in a sprawling four-storey mansion with over 100 rooms with a common kitchen in Baktawng village which is also a major tourist attraction.
They are supported by their own resources and occasional donations from followers and tourists.
This family was also featured twice in the “Ripley’s Believe it or not” in 2011 and 2013.
Family members, however, insisted that his body was warm and his pulse still beating.
Zaitinkhuma, the secretary of Lalpa Kohhran thar, told PTI that Zion-a regained pulse beat after he was brought home from the hospital.
“His (Zion-a) body is still warm. His family members and people of Chhuanthar in Baktawng village can’t bury him under such circumstances.”
Image source: Trinity Hospital in Aizawl – Facebook.
Zionghaka was born on July 21, 1945, and got married for the first time at the age of 15 in 1959 and for the last time in 2004 when he was 60.
He was suffering from hypertension and diabetes and was declared dead by doctors at Trinity hospital in Aizawl, on Sunday.
Victorians from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to join one of the Regional Advisory Councils that help guide the Victorian Government’s work supporting multicultural communities.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence and Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen today announced the opening of nominations for the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Regional Advisory Councils.
There are eight Regional Advisory Councils from across the state, which provide critical, on-the-ground insights into issues that matter to multicultural communities – including migrant and refugee settlement services, employment, education, housing, citizenship and connection to culture.
Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence said, “We encourage anyone and everyone from diverse backgrounds aged 16 and over to apply.”
Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence; Picture Source: Twitter @RosSpence
“The Regional Advisory Councils are the Commission’s eyes and ears – they are key to ensuring government policy is inclusive and culturally appropriate.”
The Councils also help identify potential solutions and strategies for achieving change, and provide a forum for other organisations and government bodies to engage with local multicultural communities.
Their work helps the VMC influence policy, and improve government and community services.
The Commission is seeking community members, business and local government representatives and service providers to achieve a balance of experience, diverse backgrounds and expertise.
Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson Viv Nguyen told The Australia Today, “We’re excited to continue to work closely with our Regional Advisory Councils, which are a key part of how we support and advocate for our communities.”
“The pandemic has shone a light on how we must continue to work with all communities to co-design solutions for problems, and the Regional Advisory Councils help us directly shape policy.”
The Commission strongly encourages people from culturally, linguistically and religiously diverse backgrounds, including established and new multicultural communities, refugees and people seeking asylum, and people over the age of 16 to apply. Members are appointed for two-year terms.
India is all geared up to take on New Zealand in the maiden World Test Championship Final.
USA based journalist, CJ Werleman took to Twitter and backed the Kiwis to win the India vs New Zealand WTC Final.
However, CJ Werleman tweeted a ‘Hinduphobic’ remark in order to justify his support: “imagining 500 million Hindutva extremists being happy, even for a second, makes me miserable.”
Werleman claims to have published more than 400 articles and is a “Global Correspondent for Byline Times. Columnist for Inside Arabia. Activist against Islamophobia.”
CJ Werleman’s tweet didn’t go down well with former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad who lambasted the journalist for using a communal remark in cricket.
Taking to Twitter, Venkatesh Prasad bashed the journalist and called his thinking miserable. He also went on to call out the publications that gave the journalist an opportunity to write for them.
“Whoever wins is fine, but what a sad low and miserable life this man is. The fact that this man is given an opportunity to write in publications speaks poorly of the publications. Get well soon Mr Miserable”
It is interesting to note that Werleman claims he has published stories and investigations in CNN International, BBC News, Sky Channel, TRT World, Al Jazeera, Indus News, and many others.
Twitterati was quick to react.
Few also digged out his Islamophobic tweets, which CJ Werleman claims were a thing of past.
CJ Werleman’s Hinduphobic agenda failed to divide the cricket-loving Indian community into the lines of religion.
The Australia Today has seen few documents which suggest this alleged Hinduphobic CJ Werleman is now working with few Australian organisations to spread hate against the Australian Hindu community.
Their agenda is to poison the Hindu community in the name of region, language, caste and Indian politics.
Reprentative Picture of Hindu Rituals; Picture Source: @CANVA
The conference, Hindu Religion in Australia – Its Roots and Growth, is the domain of academia and one must first answer why non-academics are stepping into an essentially academic domain.
In his preface to the third edition of A Survey of Hinduism, Klaus K. Klostermaier writes,
“It was especially gratifying for me to see it appreciated by Hindu students and scholars—a token for the fulfilment of my ambition to present Hinduism in such a way that Hindus would recognise their own traditions in it.”
A wonderful sentiment, especially since in most of the books on Hinduism by Western scholars, Hindus themselves don’t recognise that it is about them! In this survey, the second chapter of the Gita is claimed as its essence. The orthodox Hindu view is that it’s the fifteenth chapter. This is an example of how even this sympathetic 700-page page survey falls short of capturing the Hindu religion, albeit not by much.
The story when it comes to academia, Indology and its view on Vedas and the “pre-historic” speculations about Hindus, borders on disbelief. A majority academic position is that scholars like Sayanacharya and Dayananda Saraswati were ignorant of the modern “scientific” philological tools. We should throw their commentaries overboard and let the philological analysis only tell us about Vedas.
Reprentative Picture of Hindu Rituals; Picture Source: @CANVA
The less said about the Aryan Invasion theory the better. If one doesn’t support both these theories, it is impossible to get published in peer-reviewed journals or get a good publisher for your books. Subconsciously we all feel that a book published by Penguin or Oxford Press is much more valuable than that published by Garuda Press. These attitudes have been impressed upon our minds with careful strategies, least of all the veneration for the English language. The absence of any counter view in the peer-reviewed journals is adduced as the final proof that no counter view is valid.
The story of the media is even fantastic. The international left network and its media fronts cannot write about Hindus without derogatory mention of the caste system, utter misuse of Hindu icons or finding only erotica in it, horror and ridicule of cow worship, insistence on uprooting yoga from its Hindu roots. These are just a few horrors that one is sure to find in any news story about India. The scattered but influential right media with its think tanks shamelessly promotes their ideology at the expense of the Hindus using the fodder provided by the left.
Reprentative Picture of Hindu Rituals; Picture Source: @CANVA
What must then a Hindu do? What must a Hindu think, who has an unshakable faith in their received knowledge to get a vision of God? How must Hindus in Australia pass their beliefs to their children, who know only English and learn everything about their religion in English? What misery must a Hindu feel when their Deities are “proved” by learned scholars to be erotic symbols?
An easy way for Hindus is to shut out the academia, the media, the think tanks, and all those silent attacks to which they cannot respond. Subscribe to the popular notion of the subjective versus objective; intuitive versus rational divide, ignore the objective and real, and pursue the intuitive and subjective. Subscribe to the “multicultural” notion and develop its unique religion as perhaps done in Fiji, the Caribbean, and South America. This will be a big mistake.
Reprentative Picture of Hindu Rituals; Picture Source: @CANVA
The aim of every philosophy, oriental or occidental, is one and only one – to seek that is truly pure. If one can be so bold as to proclaim, it is only given to Hindus to get hold of the philosophy, Eastern and Western, and make it one living thing.
In speaking about Spinoza and Giordano Bruno, Schopenhauer comments that:
They do not belong either to their age or to their part of the globe, which rewarded the one with death, and the other with persecution and ignominy. Their miserable existence and death in this Western world are like that of a tropical plant in Europe. The banks of the Ganges were their spiritual home; there they would have led a peaceful and honoured life among men of like mind
(WORLD I 422, N. 2).
Reprentative Picture of Hindu Rituals; Picture Source: @CANVA
I quote this not to hint at the superiority of one thing over another but merely to say that Spinoza who is considered the father of metaphysics was talking about the same thing as talking on the banks of the Ganges. How can his true intellectual children be different? Spinoza believed that: The essential character of this bondage, however, suggests the possibility of escape from it. (in Introduction to Ethics by Benedict De Spinoza, page xxviii). This is pure and simple Bhakti Yoga.
When one reads the Western philosophers, minus the prejudice created by “academic” philosophers, one realises that the labels given to Western and Eastern philosophies do not hold. This is for the Hindu to discover and with this discovery make their life fuller and richer in their adopted country Australia.
Reprentative Picture of Hindu Rituals; Picture Source: @CANVA
For Hindus to have a fuller life, not weighed down by academia, the media, and the left, we must start thinking on our own. There is really no human who doesn’t have thoughts that are unique to them. It is only a fortunate few who can develop their thoughts enriching their lives and the lives of others. It doesn’t have to be so, Religion is unique in the sense that it provides us with a 24 x 7 laboratory. We don’t need multibillion-dollar particle colliders, we do not need a hierarchical institutional structure, we have all that we need to develop our religious ideas free of costs in the body made of five elements.
Hindu Religion in Australia – Its Roots and Growth, Australian Hindu Conference 2021, has a large vision in its sight. This conference is for Hindu scholars to know that there are people willing to listen to them and learn from them. It is to let every Hindu in Australia know that discovering new ideas within their religion is one gift of God that we all possess.
There is no need to outsource the intellectual part of the religion to anyone. We can have the banks of the Ganges here in Australia if we are bold in our thinking and truthful in its pursuit. Let us digest the whole of the philosophy and make a wonderful religion here in Australia. Let that be the grand destiny of every Hindu in Australia. Aiming for anything less won’t be worth the trouble to leave those wonderful banks of the Ganges.
We wait to welcome you call to the conference.
Author: Himanshu Pota
Australian Hindu Conference 2021 Hindu Religion in Australia — Its Roots and Growth 9 am – 5 pm Saturday 3 July 2021 2 Australia Ave Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127 Contact email: himanshu.pota@gmail.com
Australian shares notched up a fourth straight weekly gain supported by tech stocks and gold miners. As worries about US inflation spiking out of control eased the investors were back in the market taking Australia to new highs.
Gold miners however were best performers as Gold notched towards the US 1900 mark. Bellevue Gold and Newcrest Mining were both big beneficiaries of price increase in Gold bullion.
Technology shares also recovered following leads from the NASDAQ exchange with Afterpay outperforming the benchmark index. We expect Afterpay to continue with recovery this week with inflation worries easing and investors moving back into tech stocks.
The Financial stocks however made losses with all Big Four banks closing the week in the red. NAB posted a 3.8% weekly loss, recording its worse week since October 2020 after AUSTRAC revealed the bank is under investigation for suspected breaches of anti-money laundering laws.
Representative Picture; Market @Canva
The good news also from Australia came with Melbourne ending its lockdown on Friday, albeit with some restrictions remaining. As the lockdown ends, we expect the economic activity to ramp up again, however, things could flare up again and a strong vaccination drive is necessary to keep Victoria out of lockdown.
Victoria’s snap lockdown weighed both on business and consumer confidence as both fell back in May/June. However, the good news is that both business and consumer confidence data remain strong and as lockdown gets further relaxed, this should reflect in Australian shares that are already on a record high.
We remain confident of Australian shares moving towards the 7400 marks in the coming weeks on improving global growth and earnings helped by more vaccines. As Iron price continues to rally and with Macquarie boosting the earnings outlook for BHP, RIO, and FMG we dovish on all three miners. However, tech space, particularly Afterpay is where we see the biggest potential as market conditions improve and economic activity starts again.
We continue to remain bullish on A2Milk as well as China continues to provide strong data.
Last week we spoke about the likelihood of export base healthcare companies such as CSL and Pro Medicus continuing to rally as vaccine drive increases. Both the shares did not disappoint us. With G7 likely to sign off on more vaccine rollout and helping other countries we expect these shares to continue with their strong momentum.
Australian Gold; Picture Source: @CANVA
Gold miners had one of their best weeks as gold prices rallied towards USD 1900. However, a sell-down on Friday night meant Gold closed the week slightly lower on USD 1877/ounce. A weakness that may reflect back on Newcrest and other gold miners when markets open on Monday.
Gold is often seen as a hedge against inflation and with inflation worries easing on Friday we may see an eventual pullback in Gold prices. The good news however comes for gold in the form of Indian jewellers.
With restrictions easing across India over the weekend and Indian jewellers slowly lifting shutters again, the world hopes the demand for Gold from India will start boosting the prices again. For May India’s Gold imports increased nine times from their lowest point in 2020, with many dealers hopeful of a rebound with easing restrictions.
Indian Gold Jewells; Picture Source: @CANVA
Oil prices also continued to rise for a third straight week on a positive outlook that increases in vaccination around the globe will open up economies faster and as such boost the oil demand. Ease of restrictions in India, oil’s third-largest importer in the World, have also boosted oil price to trade at a multi-year high.
The cryptocurrency has continued to decline all through last week. Bitcoin’s meteoric rise is more and more looking like thing of the past and with every week the price fails to recover the move back to old highs of US 64,895 looks harder.
The news coming from the US that the FBI hacked back $2.3 million of Bitcoin back in Bitcoin ransom paid to the Dark side last month added in selling pressure for Bitcoin as investors were worried it is not as anonymous or secure as they thought.
Bitcoin; Picture Source: @CANVA
The price fall however was stabilised as El Salvador adopted it as its legal currency. The good news however is there still seem to be a lot of support around the $31,000 mark. There seems to be enough demand at the moment to buy at dips for Bitcoin. However, we can see the price ranging between USD 30,000 and 40,000 for the time being with more volatility to come.
Etherium got hit by decline harder. All eyes are now on other countries like El Salvador which previously relied on the US dollar as their currency. However, with more countries working towards cleaner energy we may see a shift more towards cleaner greener coins such as Cardano, IOTA and Stellar Lumens.
The Australian dollar has had a rising trend which we are likely to see continue for the next 12 months. We remain bullish it will reach up to USD 0.85 by the end of the year. A rise in Gold and Iron prices ave helped the Australian dollar continue to rally against most of its peer and as they continue to rise we see it continue to go up.
Having said that we are also keeping a lookout for simmering tensions with China, Australia’s largest trade partner, which may bring the Australian dollar down. In regards to Indian Rupee, the Aussie touched a high of INR56.74 on Friday. All eyes will be on RBA minutes next week and a dovish statement from the RBA governor can see the Australian dollar continue to improve against the Rupee and other global currencies.
Australian Dollar; Picture Source: @CANVA
In agricultural commodities, Wheat had an interesting week. An unexpected tender by South Korea to purchase 65,000 tonnes of Wheat tried to boost the wheat prices. However, the Ethiopian government cancelling an order of 400,000 tonnes of wheat quickly soured the mood for European traders.
The deadline for submission of tender was 14 June. European traders who were preparing for the tender expect the tender to be re-issued soon. A failure to do so may result in an extra supply of Wheat thus pushing the prices down. Russia, the world’s largest wheat exporter, has reported a better than expected wheat crop season, which could further increase the supply of wheat compared to demand.
Corn prices remained flat as demand for corn thinned due to rising prices. A recent fall in soybean prices made it more attractive and there was a shift in demand from corn to soybean products especially around the Gulf coast. We however remain bullish towards corn as China and Mexico continue to buy corn in large quantities.
Author: Ateev Dang is a trader and trading coach by profession. He runs Glow trades Pty Ltd where he teaches anyone who is interested in starting on their trading journey on how to trade. He can be contacted at adang@glowtrades.com.au.
Disclaimer: The writers’ opinion in the above article are his own and do not constitute any financial advice whatsoever. Nothing published by The Australia Today constitutes an investment recommendation, nor should any data or content published be relied upon for any investment activities.
We strongly recommend that you perform your own independent research and/or speak with a financial advisor or qualified investment professional before making any financial decisions.
The NewZealand seal a 1-0 series victory against England; Picture Source: Twitter @BLACKCAPS
The Kiwis sealed a 1-0 series win against England after a commanding eight-wicket victory in Edgbaston, winning their first Test series in the country since 1999.
The hosts came into day four already dented at 122/9 with a lead of 37 runs. All it took was a delivery from Trent Boult to wrap up England’s first innings and shattered any hopes of mounting a resilience. Boult steamed in and dismissed Olly Stone for 15 who nicked the ball to the keeper.
Thereafter, New Zealand needed 38 runs to win the match and the series. The visitors chased down the target comprehensively in 10.5 overs but lost the wickets of Devon Conway (3) and Will Young (8) along the way; Conway edged a wide one off Stuart Broad while Young was dismissed by Stone.
Stand-in captain Tom Latham remained till the end to see New Zealand over the line with a 23 not out during which he completed 4000 Test runs, becoming only the ninth Kiwi batsman to achieve this feat.
Matt Henry was awarded the Player of the Match for picking three wickets in each innings while Devon Conway was handed the Player of the Series award for scoring 306 runs at an average of 76.50 which included a double ton on his debut.
Many students across Australia wear traditional school uniforms. These consist of button-up shirts, tailored trousers, pleated skirts or tunics, and black leather shoes.
Traditional school uniform (left) and sports uniform (right) can both include the school logo. Dr Steven Fleming, Author provided
This is despite the fact most students, teachers and parents support a move away from traditional uniforms to ones more comfortable for students and more supportive of a range of activities they do at school.
Schools across Australia set their own uniform policy, informed by their jurisdiction’s education authority. Here are four reasons schools should consider offering students the option to wear sports-like uniforms every day, starting with the savings for parents.
1. Traditional uniforms are expensive
The average cost in Victoria for a primary-school student uniform appropriate for summer and winter, as well the sports uniform, is around A$330 on average. For secondary schools this increases to around an average of $526 per student. Catholic and independent school uniforms are consistently more expensive than ones in government schools.
The biggest saving that comes from shifting to an everyday policy of sports uniforms is that parents don’t need to buy multiple uniforms. If parents only need to buy a sports uniform, this could save around $167 for primary-aged and $363 for secondary-aged students (based on Victorian figures).
Sports uniforms are cheaper than traditional uniforms. Most sports uniforms consist of a tracksuit, polo shirt with school logo, sport shorts and trainers – at a total average cost of $163. Increasing mass-production of a sports uniform may reduce this cost even further.
Matthew Mclaughlin, Author provided
2. Teachers, students and parents prefer sports uniforms
In a positive step, all government schools across Australia must now offer a shorts or trouser option to both boys and girls. Most schools choose to offer tailored shorts or trousers.
Overall, four in five parents and six in ten teachers support a change in uniform policy allowing students to wear sports uniforms every day.
Matthew Mclaughlin, Author provided
3. Sports uniforms support physical activity
Most students think they would be more active if they could wear their sports uniform every day. Older students, who are generally less active, more strongly agree they’d be more active wearing sports uniforms every day.
Nine in ten parents agree school uniforms should support physical activity.
Most Australians recognise physical activity is good for physical and mental health. Beyond health, active students do better in class, having better concentration, attention and classroom behaviours, which can lead to improved academic performance.
Giving students the choice to wear sports uniforms every day can help them be active. Photo Credit: Dr Steven Fleming
Research suggests by changing from a traditional uniform to a sports uniform, primary-aged students can improve their physical activity. Changing to sports uniforms may be evenmore important for Australian girls, who are typically less active than boys.
Sports uniforms make it easier for students to engage in these other types of activities on a daily basis.
Matthew Mclaughlin, Author provided
4. Traditional uniforms are uncomfortable
Students could still wear the traditional uniform if they choose to. Dr Steven Fleming, Author provided
“Uniforms hold me back from running”, was one of a number of reasons given by South Australian secondary school students to not being active at recess.
Unlike schools in other countries, we’ve heard some Australian primary schools do not have changing facilities to allow students to switch between active wear and traditional uniforms at recess.
Workplace dress policies are almost always appropriate for the type of work required by employees. For example, tradies wear reflective active wear. So why not in schools? In a country with a climate like Australia’s, we must ask if traditional school uniforms are fit for purpose.
Challenges and next steps
Only one-third of school principals support swapping to sports uniforms every day. Among the two-thirds who don’t support the change are those who say sports uniforms are inappropriate for formal occasions. Half also say there is no evidence to support making a change.
We strongly encourage uniform suppliers to work with school departments to design sports uniforms that encourage physical activity, and that are also smart and appropriate for formal school occasions.
As a parent or student, you can ask your school to consider offering the option to wear a daily sports uniform.
There was a discourse of violence of power structure and political violence in the past between coloniser and colonised during colonial times. Let’s understand it through the insights of Frantz Fanon’s (philosopher and intellectual, 1925-1961) seminal work The Wretched of the Earth (1961) under the postwar decolonisation movement with a focus on Africa, especially Algeria.
His idea comes from how and why the colonialism process should be halted, also about the national and cultural consciousness of newly independent countries, and the impact of colonialism on the psychology of colonised people and nation.
Colonisation and Decolonisation: Use of Violence
Fanon postulates colonial world is divided into two half the colonist (of pride/perfect) and the colonised (shame/clumsy); where the colonist world (of ruling ‘species’) is considered a place of wealth (with light) while colonised (of others) is a place considered to he “inhabited by disrupt-able people” and poor (with darkness).
Violence has no place; Picture Source: Twitter
This division reflects the exploitation of colonised people. There is always a fear of decolonizing in the mind of colonist and the desire for decolonisation is present in the mind of colonised. Coloniser used violence to dominate over the natives and the same violence is used by natives to rebel against the coloniser; stating, “Decolonisation is always violent” and it cannot to achieve through “gentleman’s agreement” or handshake.
Colonisers used soldier barracks and police stations (use of violence, power and ammunition) to separate from the colonised world. The identities are formulated by the colonist in order to establish their superiority. The injustices of colonialism are revolted by the national awakeness usually coming from rural areas.
Violence has no place; Picture Source: Twitter
Decolonization through violence eradicates colonial government and liberates the colonised from the mindset imposed by the coloniser. He demonstrates that colonising powers have benefited from the colonised, so they owe reparations payments to their former colonies.
In the international context, Europe’s claim of wealth was criticised by Fanon, as he believed this wealth was exploited by Europe from third-world countries. The distribution of wealth was not fairly distributed around the world. Then he talks about conflict/violence between colonialism against anti-colonialism; after liberation, this conflict was converted into capitalism against socialism, as per Fanon. Capital exploitation is the biggest enemy of a nation.
At the stage of decolonisation, the urban colonised elites like intellectuals and owners of businesses form political parties but they ignore the rights of rural colonised people. The colonised bourgeoisie influences the colonised intellectuals and business elites to accept non-violence means but in fact, that is insufficient for decolonization.
Whereas, peasants (who lived in an undeveloped country, usually live traditional lives) are revolutionary as they have nothing to lose and everything to gain, in comparison to the national bourgeoisie (white-collar people) shall be the last to use violence against the colonial rule.
Violence has no place; Picture Source: Twitter
In a similar manner, it is stated that colonised workers in cities also form unions and protest to improve their own conditions that also do not raise the demands of rural peoples. These rural people act spontaneously against the oppression as they believe in rebellion. Fanon claims in the decolonised nation, the national bourgeoisie is self-centred and should not be allowed to establish dominance in a newly independent nation-state.
The argument is postulated as fear of returning from old means of domination and oppression by the bourgeoisie class if they become powerful in the post-colonial period. This can be avoided by decentralizing in the extreme where the hinterlands would be merged with the region.
He suggested both peasants and urbanised intellectuals should wage war before independence. In the post-colonial period, neo-colonisation can be neutralised by decentralisation, where government should be run by peasants and removal of the national bourgeoisie from power is recommended by Fanon. He also states the need to educate people so that they can rationally discuss the future issues of the nation.
Violence has no place; Picture Source: Twitter
Colonialism had destroyed the colonised past and culture. Thus native intellectuals should revive the glorious history. He signifies the culture should be national and suggest not to imitate European culture, not regional or racial, identity.
He elaborated on the psychological disorders that were created by colonialism over the colonised, as the colonised are taught to demean without identity, so they try to question the colonialism that results in disorders like depression and anxiety. Moreover, the colonised feel number of post-traumatic disorders that result in psychotic breakdowns.
The only recipe for these disorders was to overthrow colonialism and making a call to his fellow man to fight for the emancipation of colonised populations would ultimately help all of mankind.
Violence has no place; Picture Source: Twitter
Critics: Glorify Violence or Alarms the use of Violence
Critics of Fanon like Hannah Arendt accused him of ‘glorifying violence for violence sake’ (1970). Many conservative writers have reacted against his views on violence, and leftist intellectuals have dismissed his revolutionary statements as outdated and naïve.
Some support Fanon that despite his ideas as on centrality of violence on decolonisation, but “he does not advocate arbitrary violence, but rather recognises the dangers, physical and psychological, of violence without a cause” (Singler, 2016).
Conclusion
Fanon target audience is colonisers and tried to explain the concepts of colonialism and decolonisation through philosophical, cultural, historical, political, and cultural perspectives. This does not mean that violence used in colonised time is justified in post-colonial times.
Without taking a position of either side of using violence occurred in the Israel-Palestine conflict, my grave concerns stand to more significant questions of who will heal the gaps of lost human life, recover national resources and reduce the international tension?
Author: Dr Sakul Kundra, A.HOD Department of Social Science at Fiji National University
Disclaimer: The views expressed are his own and not of The Australia Today or his employer. For comments or suggestions, email. dr.sakulkundra@gmail.com
Former Indian National Congress (INC) leader 47-year-old Jitin Prasada has joined the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP).
Prasada, who was also close to Rahul Gandhi, is a very high-profile political leader with a large mass base that he has created over two decades.
Image source: Rahul Gandhi – Wikipedia.
In a statement Prasada said:
“I have a three-generation connection with the Congress, so I took this important decision after a lot of deliberation. In the last eight-10 years, I have felt that if there is one party that is truly national, it is BJP. Other parties are regional but this is the national party.”
Image source: NDTV.
In an interview with the NDTV, Prasada has ruled out making any deal with Home Minister Amit Shah or party chief JP Nadda prior to his joining the ruling outfit.
“It is not about Rahul or any particular leader. I didn’t do any deal with Nadda or Shahji… I will do whatever the party gives me.”
With Prasada’s exist from the INC, the focus is now a group of 23 party members, known as “G-23”, party dissidents who have earlier written to Sonia Gandhi calling for crucial reforms.
Image source: Kapil Sibal – Wikipedia.
A mmeber of G-23, Kapil Sibal told NDTV that he disapproves of “Prasada Ram politics” or “Crass Prasada politics” based on personal gain rather than ideology.
“I don’t want to comment on what the party leadership has done or not done. We have reached a stage in Indian politics where decisions of this nature are not based on ideology at all. They are based on what I now call Prasada Ram politics.”
Prasada is the second high profile loss for the INC after Jyotiraditya Scindia, another leader close to Rahul Gandhi, switched to the BJP last year.
Image source: Jyotiraditya Scindia – Wikipedia.
Scindia was in fact responsible for bringing down the INC government in Madhya Pradesh.
Reacting to Prasada’s joining the BJP, Scindia told media:
“He is like my younger brother, and I welcome him to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). I congratulate him.”
With Prasada’s exist, now all eyes are once again looking at Sachin Pilot.
Image source: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot with Sachin Pilot – Wikipedia.
In 2020, Pilot has revolted against Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and was to be persuaded by Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to end his rebellion.
He recently reminded his party leaders that nothing had changed since then.
Image source: Jitin Prasada – Wikipedia.
Pilot’s friend Prasada feels that the so-called promised reforms haven’t been delivered and no one knows who will deliver them.
“If we haven’t addressed it, we haven’t. We are fighting within the system we have continued to raise issues. All that we want to say is it is time to listen. If the head stops listening, the organization will decline. All that we want is that the Congress party should listen to us.”
Prominent BJP leaders, Amit Shah, Yogi Adityanath and Himanta Biswa Sarma have welcomed Prasada to the party who is expected to help in the upcoming Uttar Pradesh elections.
Image source: Tejaswi Surya with Amit Shah – Twitter.
BJP’s young gun Tejaswi Surya even tweeted reminding the people of India how INC treats its young politicians:
Prasada, a former Lok Sabha MP from Dhaurahra, feels “it was no use staying in a party where there was no will to serve the people of the country.”
With only four Congress-ruled states, Rajasthan, Punjab, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, and so much disconent amongst the young guns of the grand old party, the question now arises – will INC survive another shock?
Image source: INC – YouTube.
WATCH VIDEO:Shri Jitin Prasad joins BJP in presence of Shri Piyush Goyal at BJP HQ.
David Shoebridge; Picture Source: @Twitter, The Australia Today
Australia is a vibrant democracy where multiculturalism is celebrated. It is very encouraging that Hinduism can be taught to children in New South Wales schools. This is done all thanks to Vishwa Hindu Parishad who run these school program and 250 volunteers (mostly female) associated with them.
Vishwa Hindu Parishad Australia contributes towards Arts & Culture, Heritage, Civilization, Language, Education, Aid & Relief. An organisation that has been associated with [JS1].
Unfortunately, Greens NSW MLC David Shoebridge accused it of a Neo Nazi Extremist Organisation.
Let’s understand, what’s going on! Mr Shoebridge uses this defamatory term in reference to picking up some stray incident between two Indian youth groups, I want to believe not deliberately, plant a divide amongst the wider Indian community for his and his political parties benefit.
He says in NSW Parliament without any evidence, that reports of violence had come from Right Wing Hindu Nationalist groups and goes on to name VHP. Mr Shoebridge seems to be dreaming, that the investigation is complete and VHP members were involved, otherwise, why would he make such a Fake statement?
However, to Mr Shoebridge’s surprise, there isn’t any report that corroborates his claims. Further, his claims were thwarted by the Department of Education and NSW Police which was echoed by NSW MLC Mark Latham when a motion was passed in NSW Parliament against Mr Shoebridge.
All sides of political persuasions except NSW Greens echoed in the NSW Parliament that as there is no evidence against VHP that could suggest their involvement in any violent incident, David Shoebridge should unconditionally apologise.
Mr Shoebridge, When you stand in the Parliament and use such defamatory terms, you may get away due to parliamentary privileges, but the damage it has caused to the wider Indian community is irreparable.
Moreover, this vicious attack on a Hindu religious organisation is nothing but an attempt to break the morale and let down the female teachers who take pride to teach the next generation from the Hindu community about their faith.
Labor MLC Daniel Mookhey during the motion in NSW parliament raised concerns that the issue was being politicised during the times when India is going through COVID crises and the Australian Indian community is worried for their family members back home.
He also appreciated the achievements of the Hindu community that due to their efforts Hinduism can be taught in Australian schools.
It also looks like levelling these appalling and false allegations of crimes against VHP could be related to politics in India. You know what, VHP Australia has never engaged in any political commentary, let alone supporting violence. But what we will always stand against is your blatant normalisation of Hinduphobia. I think you have been acting as a tool to the people who oppose the tolerant Hindu beliefs.
LNP MLC Scott Farlow during the motion embraced “Vasudaiva Kutumbakum.” You probably don’t even know what it means, let me explain it to you Mr Shoebridge, it means the world is one family as the key tenants of Hinduism.
Mr Farlow provided details on VHP volunteers teaching across 80 schools across NSW and all of them going through checks for working with children and regular training and that teaching Hindu Dharma are fully approved by the NSW Department of Education.
Mr Shoebridge your childish citing of the defunct report from an old edition of the CIA Factbook which allegedly terms VHP as an Extremist Organisation was countered with proofs. Due to reasons unknown to us but definitely for your divisive politics Mr Shoebride, you decided to ignore the current edition of the CIA factbook which lists VHP under Trade Union & Environmental Group.
Finally, Are you listening David Shoebridge, MLC NSW Greens, you owe an apology to the entire Hindu Community.
Author: Bharti Kundal is Social Worker, who works against #Racism and #Hinduphobia.
India Travel; Melbourne Airport; Picture Source: The Australia Today
The Australian government has revised circumstance under which the “India travel” permission can be granted.
Based on current health advice, any individual who is seeking an exemption to travel from Australia to India will only be approved for the following limited reasons.
Critical workers providing assistance to India’s COVID-19 response
People travelling in Australia’s national interest
People seeking urgent medical treatment for a critical illness that cannot be treated in Australia
People travelling due to the death or funeral of a close family member
People visiting a close family member who is critically ill
People seeking to travel to India to escort an Australian citizen or permanent resident minor back to Australia.
However, before the travel person need
India Travel; Melbourne Airport; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Supporting evidence must be provided.
The ‘exceptional circumstances’ exemption criteria outlined in the Outward Travel Restrictions Operation Directive, excluding the limited circumstances stated above do not currently apply to people seeking to travel to India.
Please make only one request per person. Duplicate requests will delay assessment. If you are not granted an exemption, you should not continue with travel plans, as you will not be permitted to depart Australia. If you are granted a travel exemption, you will need to take evidence of that exemption decision to the airport.
India Travel; Melbourne Airport; Picture Source: The Australia Today
COVID-19 vaccinations now available for essential overseas travel
Australian citizens and permanent residents under 50 years of age who have an approved outwards travel exemption in an eligible category are now able to access COVID-19 vaccinations.
If you have a travel exemption granted for eligible reasons before 20 May 2021, and have not left Australia, you can submit a new travel exemption request. Upload all relevant documents and state that you wish to be eligible for vaccination before travelling.
You will not be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination if your outward travel exemption is granted for ‘compelling reasons for at least 3 months’.
India Travel; Melbourne Airport; Picture Source: The Australia Today
Temporary visa holders under 50 years of age who are currently in Australia and have an approved inwards travel exemption for return travel to Australia are eligible to access COVID-19 vaccinations.
To be eligible, your inward travel exemption must be granted on or after 8 June 2021. If you have an inwards travel exemption to return to Australia granted before 8 June 2021, and have not left Australia, you can submit a new travel exemption request. Upload all relevant documents and state that you wish to be eligible for vaccination before travelling.
India Travel; Melbourne Airport; Picture Source: The Australia Today
COVID-19 vaccines before travel are not mandatory. You should follow expert health advice and access a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as practicable.
New modelling, developed by Burnet Institute, highlights the need to preserve public health measures as a key line of defence against COVID-19 even with high vaccination coverage.
It estimates more than 4800 Victorians could die from the virus within 12 months if it were to spread or ‘left to run’ without a public health response.
The COVASIM mathematical modelling also suggests Australia is unlikely to achieve herd immunity with current levels of vaccine hesitancy and the higher infectiousness of new variants.
In summary, the modelling shows:
• Vaccine hesitancy and the emergence of new COVID-19 variants mean Australia is unlikely to achieve herd immunity • Public health initiatives remain vital in controlling COVID-19, even in vaccinated populations. Without public health measures, thousands of Victorians would be hospitalised and die if an initially small outbreak was left to spread through the community unchecked • Australia requires higher vaccine coverage to return to normal life.
Graph above: An interpretation of the COVASIM modelling: impact of vaccines on epidemic outcomes
Burnet Institute Head of Modelling, Dr Nick Scott, said public health measures, such as lockdowns, social distancing, mask-wearing and use of QR codes, would need to continue to prevent deaths.
“Without herd immunity, if we stopped taking a public health approach and allowed the virus to spread, it is likely to infect a large proportion of the community,” Dr Scott said.
“Those who are vaccinated would be protected and may only experience mild or no symptoms. But among those not vaccinated – possibly up to 30 per cent of the community – we could see a large number of hospitalisations and deaths, as well as many cases of ‘long COVID’.”
The modelling presents scenarios projecting COVID-19 infections, hospitalisations and deaths one year after new infections enter the community, even when people are vaccinated. Parameters around vaccine efficacy, viral infectiousness, vaccine coverage and the speed of the vaccine rollout can be modified.
One scenario created by Dr Scott and his team assumed a 50 per cent vaccine efficacy in preventing infections and a 93 per cent efficacy at preventing deaths among people who did become infected; a virus which was 1.5 times as infectious as the one in Victoria in June-November 2020; and where 80 per cent of people aged over 60 and 70 per cent of people younger than 60 years of age were eventually vaccinated.
“We found that if the virus enters the community when 60 per cent vaccine coverage has been reached and is left unchecked, we could see 4,885 deaths in Victoria within a year if no public health responses are introduced,” Dr Scott said.
“If we get peak vaccination coverage up to 95 per cent, the number of deaths reduces to 1346.”
The modelling shows that if vaccine efficacy against infection was 75 per cent, with the same parameters in the scenario described, the number of deaths after one year could be less than 1000. Conversely, if the virus was more infectious, deaths would remain at very high levels, even if the vaccine was highly efficacious.
Burnet Institute Deputy Director and leading infectious diseases and public health specialist, Professor Margaret Hellard AM said that the modelling was a ‘worst-case’ scenario, showing what could happen if governments decided not to intervene and ‘let the virus run’ even with moderate-to-high vaccine coverage.
“Current COVID-19 strains are far more infectious than the original one. Research is ongoing to determine vaccine efficacy against these variants, but it appears to be lower in a number of variants,” Professor Hellard said.
“This means we need much higher vaccine coverage to reduce infections and severe infections. Also, there may be occasions when we need to reintroduce public health measures and restrictions to control outbreaks.”
Professor Hellard said with 30 per cent of Australians indicating they do not want to be vaccinated, public health measures must remain if governments want to prevent thousands of COVID-19 deaths.
“I encourage everyone to get vaccinated as soon as they can. This modelling highlights how difficult it will be to return to a normal life. Although vaccinations might not stop every outbreak, they will reduce the likelihood of outbreaks occurring, reduce the need for quarantine and restrictions and save lives.”
COVASIM is an agent-based COVID-19 model developed by Burnet Institute and Institute for Disease Modelling in the USA. It provides governments with more specific and precise data to inform their COVID-19 responses.
Note: Modelling was done by: 1- Burnet Institute Head of Modelling, Dr Nick Scott, 2- Burnet Institute Deputy Director and leading infectious diseases and public health specialist, Professor Margaret Hellard AM 3- Burnet Institute’s Senior Research Officer for Computational Epidemic Modelling, Doctor Romesh Abeysuriya,
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STAY AT HOME ORDER – ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS
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promises to be an exciting one tomorrow 
