Redhotcurry

The decisions which the G8 leaders take this week have the potential to reduce extreme poverty around the world and to improve the lives of hundreds of millions of children, UNICEF said today. UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman said that the decisions G8 leaders will make this week will be critical to the health and well-being of more than 1 billion children.

THIERRY HENRY IS MEDIA PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has won the coveted Media Personality of the Year award at the Commission for Racial Equality's Race in the Media Awards 2005. He beat off tough competition from Dame Kelly Holmes and Private Johnson Beharry to win for the accolade for his strong stance against racism in football, most notably by initiating Nike's 'Stand Up, Speak Up' campaign.

'BREAKING UP IS HARD TO DO ....'

Breaking Up advice from advicenow.org.uk

An invaluable check-list for soon-to-be ex couples like Jamie Theakston and Erin O'Connor has been launched today by advicenow.org.uk, the rights and legal website. More than 30% of co-habiting couples eventually split up and many delay in sorting out their financial and practical affairs because they are in emotional turmoil. When it comes to co-habiting couples, until now, there has been little guidance available.

BANGLADESH HUMAN RIGHTS RECORD A CONCERN

Lord Dholakia has expressed his concern about the worsening human rights situation in Bangladesh, stressing insecurity faced by many religious minorities. “I deplore human rights abuses arising anywhere in the world because what happens in one part of the world impacts on us all.

RECORD BREAKING £400M FOR TSUNAMI APPEAL

690,000 people supplied with fresh drinking water everyday. Image copyright of UNICEF

Six months on from the Tsunami the Disasters Emergency Committee Appeal has reached a record breaking 400 million pounds. This unprecedented level of fundraising has enabled the member agencies to carry out major relief and rehabilitation work throughout the region.

EDUCATE THE WORLD'S POOREST TO ERADICATE POVERTY

A group of children release a 1000 ballons on International Widows Day.

The first International Widows Day, being celebrated in London today (23 June 2005), marks an important milestone in the campaign to “Make Poverty History” by focusing on the growing problem of widows in Asia and Africa. The International Widows Day has been established by the Loomba Trust, which says that tangible outcomes, such as education, provide the most reliable way forward.

QED – UK PICKS UP NATIONAL CHARITY AWARD

Mohammed Ali OBE, Chief Executive of QED-UK.

QED-UK, based in Bradford, the charity, which works to research, develop and run projects that address the root causes of poverty and disadvantages amongst some sections of British South Asian Communities, picked up the coveted award in the Research, Advice and Support category at an Charity Awards 2005 ceremony in London, on 16th June.

BRITISH DIVERSITY AWARDS 2005 WINNERS

In a prestigious ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel, the annual British Diversity Awards (BDA) provided much excitement for over 300 guests and also raised a useful amount of money for the very worthwhile Sickle Cell charity. Highlight of the event were Nacro and the Muslim Council of Britain winning this year's Fellowship, and Heart of Birmingham PCT gaining the Best Practitioner accolade.

G8 LEADERS MUST ACCEPT CLIMATE CHANGE EVIDENCE

Seal perched on a melting ice floe in the Arctic. Image courtesy of Greenpeace.

G8 Leaders in Gleneagles must accept the scientific evidence on climate change said Stephen Cox, Executive Secretary of the Royal Society, in a speech to MPs today (Tuesday 21 June 2005). He was addressing participants at the annual Parliamentary Links Day organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry.

BANGLADESH HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS

Hindu Human Rights are being violated in Bangladesh claims the Hindu Council UK.

The Hindu Council UK held a debate on Bangladesh Human Rights Violations at House of Commons, 16th June 2005. Dr Bhan, President of VHP(UK), referring to the plight of the minorities in Bangladesh, spoke of the devastating effects this persecution was having on their freedom to practice their faith.

REDHOTCURRY.COM EDITOR NOMINATED FOR JEWEL AWARD

The finalists have been announced for the Asian Jewel Awards (Southern Region) 2005, to be held in London on 9 July. Among the nominees in the 'Media, Sport & Arts' category is Redhotcurry.com Editor, Mrs Lopa Patel, who is shortlisted alongside singer Jay Sean, footballer Zesh Rehman and artist Samiah Faridi.

INCREASING ASIAN REPRESENTATION IN PUBLIC LIFE

Trevor Phillips at the launch of the Commissioner Shadowing Scheme.

The Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC MP, Minister of State for the Department for Constitutional Affairs yesterday launched the Operation Black Vote and Commission for Racial Equality's Commissioner Shadowing Scheme. The scheme is part of Operation Black Vote's (OBV) drive to increase ethnic minority representation in the decision making process that steers the country.

BANGLADESHI STUDENTS UNDER-REPRESENTED IN SCIENCE

Black Caribbean and Bangladeshi populations are the most under-represented in science, engineering and technology (SET), in terms of occupations held and education beyond GCSEs, according to a report published by the Royal Society today (Thursday 16 June 2005). It is hoped that the results will inform debate in this important area.

SAI SCHOOL WINS QUEEN'S AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE

Ranu Metcha-Radia of the Sai School of Harrow with boxer Amir Khan.

The Sai School of Harrow has been chosen as a winner of this year's prestigious Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, giving recognition to the unsung heroes in our communities that play an essential role in our daily lives. The Stanmore-based group nurtures children through an education programme and various community projects.

NEW STOKE REFUGE PROVISION FOR ASIAN WOMEN

New refuge provision for Asian women in Stoke, who experience forced marriages and crimes in the name of 'so-called' honour,was launched by Baroness Scotland, Minister for State. The Police Service welcomed the facility. read more

FRENCH SHOES WITHDRAWN AFTER HINDU OUTCRY

Minelli shoes featuring Hindu God, Lord Rama

French shoe manufacturer, Minelli, has agreed to withdraw shoes with the image of the Hindu God, Lord Rama, after protests from Hindu Human Rights groups. Hindus in Britain and across the world have expressed disgust and disbelief.

72% OF LONDONERS BACK RELIGIOUS HATRED BILL

Measures to protect individuals from religious hatred were set out today by the Government as it published the Racial and Religious Hatred Bill. It would create a new offence of Incitement to Religious Hatred, closing a gap in existing law, whereby Jews and Sikhs are protected explicitly against incited hatred, but members of other faiths are not.

THE HINGLISH SPEAKING WORLD

Badmash, buda, changa, desi, filmi, kasme, namaste, teek are but a few of the Hinglish words making history in the new edition of the Collins English Dictionary. Hinglish - a linguistic fusion of the words ‘Hindi’ and ‘English’ - marks another phase in the evolution of the English language, adding to existing Indo/English words like shampoo, bangle and bungalow. read more

HINDU COMMUNITY CENTRE RECEIVES DIVINE BLESSINGS

On Thursday 2nd June 2005, Hindu high priest, Pujya Bhai Shri Rameshbhai Oza, made a historic visit to Milton Keynes to bless the newly proposed Hindu Community Centre and Elders Scheme. The Milton Keynes Hindu Association (MKHA) have successfully secured a large parcel of land and been granted full planning permission for the development.

SHAH RUKH KHAN XI v HRITHIK ROSHAN XI

The International Indian Film Academy today announced the IIFA Foundation Celebrity Cricket Match is to be played on June 10th. The match is the highlight of this year's IIFA Weekend in Amsterdam and is being played to raise funds for various projects undertaken for the welfare of the Indian film industry artistes.

INDIA’S NEW CRICKET COACH GOES TO BAT FOR VEGANISM

The new Indian Cricket Team Coach, Greg Chappell, has teamed up with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India to create a new ad in which he goes to bat for veganism – a diet free of meat, eggs and dairy products - advocating “Don’t settle for less than a century. Go vegan!”

MOTIVATE LONDON FOR THE G8, 2 JUNE 2005

Several well-known Asians, like Radio1 DJ Bobby Friction, are lending their support to the 'Make Poverty History' campaign by getting involved in the 'Motivate London for the G8 event on June 2nd in London. The first event of its kind, it will kick-off similar events around the country aimed at mobilising people to attend the G8 summit at Gleneagles this July.

ASIAN WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 2005

Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cornwall

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall paid tribute to the success of Asians in Britain at The Asian Women of Achievement Awards 2005 ceremony on 26 May 2005. The Awards celebrate the professional and personal achievements of Asian women within the commercial, professional, artistic and humanitarian sectors.

LABOUR FRIENDS OF INDIA: VISION FOR A 3RD TERM

Stephen Pound MP, Chairman of the Labour Friends of India, outlined the group's vision for a third Labour Term in office. The new proposals include reforming the UN Security Council, real partnerships between Britain and Indian in trade, investment & finance cooperation, support for India on Environment & Climate Change and support for growth infrastructure.

FIRST ASIAN FEMALE PRESIDENT OF THE PRAJAPATIS

Hansaben Mistry from Bolton was elected as the President for Shree Prajapati Association (UK) which was established in 1975 with the objective of advancing religion and education, particularly in Hindu culture, and the relief of poverty and sickness. There are 13 branches with over 12,000 adult members.

KARAN BILIMORIA - UK'S YOUNGEST UNIVERSITY CHANCELLOR

Karan Bilimoria becomes the Chancellor of Thames Valley University.

Karan Bilimoria, founder and CEO of Cobra Beer has become the UK's Youngest University Chancellor by accepting the Chancellorship of Thames Valley University (TVU). Mr Bilimoria follows the late Lord Hamlyn, the Lord Paul of Marylebone and Sir William Stubbs as the University's fourth Chancellor. Karan will be the UK's youngest Chancellor and only the third Asian to be appointed as Chancellor at a UK University.

MAYOR LAUNCHES LONDON'S LOCAL PRESS AWARDS

Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, today launched the first London Local Press Awards. The scheme aims to recognise good practice shown by many of London’s local newspapers in their balanced and accurate coverage of refugee and asylum issues. The awards scheme follows research commissioned by the Mayor into media coverage of refugee and asylum issues.

ATTA YAQUB BECOMES CHARITY RUN AMBASSADOR

Screen hunk, Atta Yaqub, star of the hugely successful Scottish movie 'Ae Fond Kiss' is one actor who will be going places over the next 4 months, quite literally. He has been chosen as an ambassador for the FRESH 'N' LO Great Scottish Run 2005 and plans on running the half-marathon event on September 4th in Glasgow.

NOMINATIONS INVITED FOR DEAFBLIND FRIENDLY AWARDS

Businesses and services are being asked to nominate themselves to receive a National Deafblind Friendly Award. Organised by the deafblind charities Sense and Deafblind UK, the awards recognise those who have made themselves accessible to deafblind people. Winners will be invited to an award ceremony in London in October.

INDIA: 'AID, DEATH & DOGMA' REPORT

Unfettered free trade policies backed by the British government have led to a crisis in Indian agriculture, spiralling rural debt and an epidemic of suicide among poor farmers, says the new Christian Aid Week report published today. The shocking new research reveals that more than 4,000 farmers have killed themselves in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.

HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS APPOINT ASIAN OUTREACH WORKER

Three Scottish housing associations have appointed Aisha Nadeem as their first Pension Benefit Outreach Worker to help BME older people take up pension entitlements. Aisha will work as part of the Equal Opportunities team under the guidance of the Housing Equal Opportunities Manager.

CRE TO ELIMINATE DISCRIMINATION IN HOUSING

The Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) today called on housing specialists across Britain to take part in a consultation on housing. Trevor Phillips, CRE Chair, said: "There is a long history of racial inequality in housing and housing-related services. Ethnic minorities are more likely to be homeless, to live in overcrowded conditions, and to express dissatisfaction with their homes.

HFB WELCOMES LAWS TO END RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION

His Holiness Swami Nirliptananda, Spritiual Body Commissioner - Hindu Forum of Britain.

The Hindu Forum of Britain today welcomed Labour's key themes of respect and reform, particularly in relation to race hate and equality. On 15 May 2005, the Queen unveiled the government's programme for the next 18 months, which includes plans to outlaw incitement to religious hatred and extend protection against discrimination to religious faith.

HINDU FORUM HONOURS TSUNAMI VICTIMS

The Hindu Forum of Britain was the only Hindu organisation invited to give a reading at the national service led by the Queen, on 11 May 2005 at St Paul's Cathedral, to remember the many thousands who perished in the Boxing Day Tsunami disaster. Ramesh Kallidai, Secretary General of the HFB, gave a reading at the service.

ASIAN JEWEL AWARDS 2005 (CENTRAL REGION)

Dr Hassam (L) receives his award from Kit Roberts, Director of Diversity at the Learning Skills Council

The winners of the Asian Jewel Awards (Central Region) 2005 were announced in Birmingham with over 800 guests celebrating the achievements of Asian individuals in the region. Dr Ahmed Hassam (pictured) of Quest Vitamins received the Healthcare and Education Excellence Award.

RAMA'S BRIDGE TO LANKA IS REAL

Adam's Bridge in the Palk Strait. Image courtesy of NASA Digital Image Collection.

In a startling discovery, archaeologists have found that a bridge - currently called Adam's Bridge - made of chain of shoals, c.18 miles (30 km) long, in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka, is man made. The discovery ties in with the Hindu Mythology of 'The Ramayana' in which Rama builds a bridge between Rameshwaram (India) and Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the evil Ravana.

HINDU HUMAN RIGHTS IN SOUTH ASIA

The Hindu Forum of Britain is to host a debate to discuss the state of Hindu Human Rights in South Asia on 14 May 2005, following the publication of a report by the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) which asserts that the human rights of Hindu citizens are consistently violated in three regions.

LABOUR WINS THIRD TERM WITH SLIM MAJORITY

Labour today slips back into government with a slim majority that puts pressure on whether future legislation such as ID cards will be pushed through Parliament. Latest polling figures reveal that Labour has gained 54.95% of the vote - 355 seats, Conservative 30.49% -197 seats & the Liberal Democrats 9.5% - 52 seats.

CIO SOUTH ASIAN COMMUNITY NETWORK LAUNCHED

Executives of The Hindu Council (UK) were invited to join a London wide network which will serve as a 'Think Tank' for the Confederation of Indian Organisations (UK) and it's work with the South Asian community of the UK. The CIO is a national body established in 1975 with links to over 2000 South Asian organisations in the UK.

INDO-EUROPEAN KASHMIR TASK FORCE FORMED

In a show of unity UK Hindu organisations issued a joint statement condemning the Government of Jammu & Kashmir state for failing to protect human-rights, heritage and homeland of Kashmiri Hindus. A joint 'Kashmir Task Force'has been formed to pursue rights of Hindus in the state.

HINDU COUNCIL WANTS MULTI-FAITH SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES

The Hindu Council UK is lobbying for a mechanism through the Department of Education to have multi faith assemblies in UK schools. In a statement, the Council said "The key role of every Hindu body should be promoting education in Hinduism, and that is what we are engaged in."

QED CELEBRATES DIVERSITY AT HOUSE OF LORDS

Manzoor Bahadur (Universal Clothing), Lord Ahmed of Rotherham, Adeeba Malik MBE (Deputy Chief Executive, QED-UK), Mike Hammond (Head of CSR, Bradford & Bingley plc), Dr Mohammed Ali MBE (Chief Executive, QED-UK).

Bradford-based charity QED-UK hosted an informal meeting at the House of Lords. The occasion – which was hosted by Lord Ahmed of Rotherham – marked a coming of age for an organisation set up fifteen years ago with the aim of tackling the economic and social disadvantages facing many of the UK’s South Asian communities.

HIZB UT-TAHRIR TAKES LEGAL ACTION AGAINST GALLOWAY

In response to erroneous allegations in today's Evening Standard (20 April 2005) by George Galloway, the global Islamic political party Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain has commenced legal action. George Galloway has viciously alleged that Hizb ut-Tahrir was involved in an attack that took place on him. The Evening Standard article was entitled "Hate mob attacks Galloway" and appeared on the front page of the newspaper.

QUESTIONS THAT MUSLIM VOTERS SHOULD ASK

Farmida Bi, Labour's PPC Candidate for Mole Valley is one of the Muslim candidates standing in this year's elections.

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) launched its Voter Card today listing the ten key questions that British Muslims should ask of all prospective parliamentary candidates as they decide for whom they should cast their vote. The issues covered from a call to prohibit Incitement to Religious Hatred to under achievement in schools by Muslim pupils to a call for a more just and fair foreign policy.

RAMNOMI CELEBRATED AT HOUSE OF COMMONS

MPs celebrated the Hindu Festival of Ramnomi at the House Of Commons, with the Hindu Council UK (HCUK) on 18 April 2005. This event, hosted by the Minister of State, Tony McNulty (MP) marked the significant working partnership between the British government and Hindu faith organisations and was attended by 270 guests.

HINDUS URGED TO MAKE THEIR VOTES COUNT

The Hindu Forum of Britain urges Hindus to get out an vote on May 5th 2005. Pictured here is Stephen Pound MP for Ealing North.

The Hindu Forum of Britain has urged Hindus get out and vote on 5th May 2005 or risk another term of decision-makers ignoring their concerns. The HFB and Operation Black Vote want to mobilise Hindu voters into exercising their right to vote particularly in constituencies where the Hindu vote is larger than the sitting MP’s majority.

ASIAN VOLUNTEERS 'MIND THE GAP'

Saima Ayez and Vadanna Bhanat, volunteers at The Asian Advisory Service (Pear Tree Road).

Voluntary organisations ould be missing out on an untapped resource of willing volunteers through their inability to reach people from local ethnic communities. A survey of more than 500 people from black and minority ethnic groups commissioned by TimeBank found that more than did not know who to ask about voluntary work.

HINDU WOMEN CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF ACHIEVEMENT

Over 1,000 Hindu women from across the country celebrated 25 years of achievement at the silver anniversary of the Mahila Samelan on 10 April in the Radha Swami Rasila Satsang Centre in Birmingham. The Samelan is one of the largest gatherings of Hindu women and is organised by the Shree Prajapati Association (UK) a national Hindu organisation.

UK GENERAL ELECTION - 5 MAY 2005

Tony Blair has announced that the UK General Election will take place on 5 May 2005. In a characteristically upbeat style he said "I wanted to get this message out to you straight away about what's at stake at the election. This will be a tough campaign and we will have to fight for every seat and every vote."

POSTAL VOTING SHAM NEEDS REDRESS

The damning verdict by Judge Richard Mawrey QC today on the widespread election fraud in six Birmingham seats brought the issue of postal only elections into the spotlight. Accusations were made by Judge Mawrey QC that the Government had not only been complacent but “in denial” about the failures in the system.

REDHOTCURRY EDITOR ON AWA AWARDS 2005 SHORTLIST

Mrs Lopa Patel, Editor of Redhotcurry.com has been shortlisted in the Asian Women of Achievement Awards 2005 'Media Professional of the Year' category. "I am thrilled that the online medium is being recognised in this way. Among such great company, being shortlisted is a humbling experience".

PINKY'S SPICE MAGIC - AWA AWARDS 2005

Pinky Lilani, founder of the Asian Women Of Achievement Awards, is very much like the women whom she seeks to promote. A skilled entrepreneur, mentor and consultant, she exudes warmth and positive energy. Characteristics which have helped her grow the Awards in prestige over the last six years. The 2005 shortlist honours the talent of Asian women.

LAKSHMI MITTAL IS BRITAIN'S RICHEST MAN

Indian Steel Tycoon, Lakshmi Mittal has topped The Sunday Times Rich List 2005 and is Britain's Richest Man with a fortune estimated at £14.8 billion - four times last year's wealth estimate of £3.5billion. The Rich List reveals that 57-year old Mittal is one of 40 billionaires now living in Britain, the biggest number ever recorded.

MUSLIM AGENDA FOR THE UK GENERAL ELECTION

Hizb ut-Tahrir Manifesto 'Stand for Islam: Build our Community'.

Nearly a thousand Muslims attended a conference in London on Saturday 2 April 2005 for the launch of an alternative agenda for Muslims in Britain in the run up to the UK general election. The conference was organised by the Islamic political party, Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain.

ENGLISH TESTS LEAD TO SHORTAGE OF HINDU PRIESTS

Could Hindu wedding ceremonies be a thing of the past? New English Language Tests are leading to a shortage of Hindu Priests in the UK.

New visa regulations requiring Hindus to pass English language tests could lead to a shortage of priests claims the Hindu Forum of Britain. The Home Office has given assurances that they will look carefully at the effects of the imposition of these tests for Hindu priests who are usually recruited in India.

BLACK VOTERS DEMAND MINISTER FOR RACE

Lee Jasper, Chair of Operation Black Vote (OBV)

A coalition of Black organisations today launched a manifesto demanding that the next government ensure that Black communities are afforded basic equality. In the hard-hitting manifesto, the coalition outlines deep seated racial disproportionality and calls for 'All Black shortlists' to address the lack of BME politicians and a Minister for Race.

AMIR KHAN HELPS RAISE £107,000 FOR TSUNAMI VICTIMS

Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan helped raise £107,000 when he took up a friends challenge to join him in a 13-mile charity run to help raise much needed cash for the victims of the Asian tsunami. The boxer and his friend, Nabeel Chowdery, were amongst 4,500 runners taking part in the half-marathon in Manchester.

HINDUS TOP ASIAN RICH LIST 2005

Hindus have taken up the top five positions in the Asian Rich List 2005, published today by Avatar Lit's Sunrise group. The listing sees steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal, industrialists Sri & Gopi Hinduja, the Jatania brothers of Lornamead, mining supremo Anil Agarwal and pharma kings Vijay & Bhiku Patel of Waymade take the top five slots respectively.

HFB LAUNCHES BRITISH HINDU CHARTER

Many British Hindus still feel that Government and decision-makers are failing to address many of their concerns, despite being the third largest faith group. To correct this imbalance and to mobilise the Hindu vote at the next general election, nine Hindu organisations are today jointly launching a Prelude to the British Hindu Charter at the House of Commons.

LIB DEM ELECTION PLEDGES FOR ETHNIC MINORITIES

Charles Kennedy, leader of the Liberal Democrats Party

The Liberal Democrat Party has today launched its minority ethnic and minority faith pledge card to be published once the general election is called. Entitled 'Ten Good Reasons for All Britain's Communities to vote Liberal Democrat', the card lists the parties views on major issues concerning ethnic communities. Among the pledges are a plan to ban compulsory ID Cards and banning Islamaphobia.

LABOUR LAUNCHES MICHAEL HOWARD BANDWAGON WATCH

The "gloves have come off" in the fight for the next election with the Labour Party today introducing a new feature called the "Michael Howard Bandwagon Watch". Inspired by The Daily Mirror's 'Get on the Bandwagon Feature', Matt Carter, General Secretary of the Labour Party circulated an email saying "we're inviting visitors to spot bandwagons Mr Howard or his candidates are boarding, nationally or locally."

'ELE-DATING' TO HELP SAVE THE ASIAN ELEPHANT

All dolled up to be your date - Rashid the Asian Elephant.

A new UK-based charity set up to help care for the endangered Asian elephant has come up with an innovative scheme to make sponsoring the creatures fun. 'Ele-Dating' invites the public to adopt an elephant for £27 per year. The 'date' then receives a bedside photo of their chosen Nelly, personalized love letters and a Valentine's card!

YASMIN QURESHI MEETS 'HEADSCARF BAN' OPPONENTS

On the first anniversary of the ban on the wearing of the Muslim headscarf in French schools, Yasmin Qureshi, the Mayor of London's human rights adviser visited Paris to meet opponents of the ban. The visit followed a new poll conducted by MORI which found that 53 percent of Londoners disagree with the ban with just 33 per cent supporting it.

MOHAMMED AMRAN WINS BEACON PRIZE

Community worker Mohammed Amran has won the Community Builder category for this year's Beacon Prize. Mohammed was chosen for his work in community projects and conflict resolution. He came to prominence following the Bradford riot in 1995 when he arranged dialogue between police and young people, setting up the Young People's Forum as a result.

MUSLIM WOMEN HONOUR HONEY KALARIA

Tessa Jowell presents Honey Kalaria with her Gold Medal.

On 7 March 2005 the Southwark Muslim Women's Association (SMWA) celebrated its 25th anniversary and honoured Bollywood Dance Teacher, Honey Kalaria, with a gold medal for being a positive role model for Asian women. The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport - the Rt Hon Tessa Jewell MP gave the keynote speech.

POLICE SERVICE IS LIKE 'PERMA-FROST' SAYS CRE

The Police Service is like a perma-frost - thawing on the top, but still frozen solid at the core, the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) announced today as it published the final findings and recommendations of its formal investigation into the Police Service of England and Wales. Sir David Calvert-Smith, who led the investigation, said: "every time you drill down you find that ice and it won't melt any time soon."

TONY BLAIR STRENGTHENS INDO-BRITISH RELATIONSHIP

In a rousing speech at the Annual Luncheon of the Labour Friends of India group, UK Prime Minister Tony Blair sought to strengthen ties between India and the UK by highlighting the common values between the two nations. We share a real passion for education and a belief in the importance of family and community", he told the audience.

MUSLIM COUNCIL WELCOMES SCHOOL DRESS RULING

The Muslim Council of Britain today welcomed what it described as a "landmark decision" by the Court of Appeal over the right to wear the jilbab to school. Iqbal Sacranie, secretary-general of the council, said: "This is a very important ruling on the issue of personal freedom. "Many other schools have willingly accommodated Muslim schoolgirls wearing the jilbab.

NATWEST BANK FORCES CANCELLATION OF EMMA 2005

The Ethnic Multicultural Media Academy EMMA has announced that this year's Awards have been cancelled due to the withdrawal of sponsorship by NatWest Bank. The awards became mired in controversy last year after selecting David Beckham over Thierry Henry as Sports Personality of the Year and Tom Cruise over Ken Watanabe for 'The Last Samurai'.

EXTRA £3 MILLION FOR NEW CULTURE ONLINE PROJECTS

BBC Presenter Konni Huq at the launch of Kew Gardens Plant Cultures Project, A Culture Online funded project.

Arts Minister Estelle Morris today confirmed that Culture Online will receive an additional £3million to spend on interactive projects in 2005-2006. In addition to commissioning new projects, Culture Online's team of technical and creative specialists will offer consultancy support. Established in 2002, Culture Online commissions a portfolio of creative projects to extend access to the arts and culture.

NEW LAWS WILL PROTECT AGAINST DISCRIMINATION

New laws to boost protection against discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief were published today by the Government. The new measures, in the Equality Bill, will combat discrimination and also include measures which would make it unlawful for public authorities to discriminate or harass anyone in carrying out their functions.

BRITISH DIVERSITY AWARDS 2005 - CALL FOR ENTRIES

Elaine Sihera, Founder of The British Diversity Awards.

The 11th British Diversity Awards have announced a call for entries from committed practitioners who are making a difference to diverse workforces and under-represented groups, particularly within the Commerce, Health, Public Service, Media and Employment sectors, and for Innovation & Awareness, Teams, Trainers and Human Resource Directors. Closing date for entries is Monday 9th May 2005.

ASIAN PUPILS MAKE FURTHER PROGRESS AT GCSE

Asian and Black pupils made the greatest rate of improvement in 2004 examinations according to new figures. The proportion of Pakistani, Bangladeshi and black achieving 5 or more A* to C grades at GCSE has improved by more than 2.5%.

"BURDEN OF PROOF" REGULATIONS STRENGTHENED

All three equality commissions today welcomed a landmark Court of Appeal decision strengthening the Burden of Proof regulations. The judgment makes it clear that after an individual has proved facts which suggest that they have been treated unfavourably, employers are expected to provide detailed evidence to prove that they did not discriminate.

TB, HEPATITIS & AIDS CHECKS ON IMMIGRANTS

A practical system of medical checks for people coming to live and work in Britain have been proposed by the Conservatives in a bid to reduce health risks in the UK and safeguard access to the NHS. The Labour party quickly dismissed this strategy and alleged that the Conservatives are "desperately flailing around on immigration because they have failed to make any sort of headway".

ASIAN JEWEL AWARDS 2005 - NORTHERN WINNERS

Asian business and society gathered in Manchester last night for the Lloyds TSB Asian Jewel Awards (North) celebrating the achievements of South Asian individuals from all walks of life. Among the winners were Lord Adam Patel of Blackburn and businessman Lal Kumar who shared The Lifetime Achievement Award, Ibrar Ul-Haq, British Airways' first Muslim captain.

LABOUR LAUNCHES SIX ELECTION PLEDGES

The Prime Minister today unveiled Labour's six pledges that ensure a better life for you and your family. Underlining how the economy will be the bedrock of the coming campaign, the Prime Minister and the Chancellor Gordon brown launched the economic pledge first with a signing ceremony in London.

HINDU CHARITY EXONERATED

Collapsed Building as a result of Gujarat Earthquake. Photo courtesy of Worldvision.

The Charity Commission has exonerated the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh's charity arm, Sewa International UK, over allegations that the charity had misused funds. Sewa International raised over £2 million to help in the reconstruction after the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake.

RUNNING TO THE END OF THE EARTH FOR INDIA'S GIRLS

Since 1997, Michael Davidson has run marathons covering six continents and is now scheduled to run the seventh continent, Antarctica, on 26 February 2005. A native New Yorker, Michael now lives in London and works for Morgan Stanley. In his run of the Antarctica, Michael decided to raise funds for Child Relief and You (CRY). He is raising funds for Mahita, a project that focuses on issues affecting the girl child.

IMMIGRANTS WILL FACE 'FORTRESS BRITAIN' IN THE FUTURE

British Home Secretary, Charles Clarke, today set out the next stage of the Government's comprehensive reform of the UK's immigration and asylum system. The wide-ranging plan will ensure that only those who benefit Britain can come here to work or study, it will strengthen the UK's borders; crack down on abuse and illegal immigration; and increase removals.

DOES INTERCULTURALISM MAKE CITIES MORE SUCCESFUL?

A pioneering new research project challenges all cities to rethink their policies on cultural diversity if they aspire to be successful and competitive. The project, called 'The Intercultural City: Making the Most of Diversity' will take place in cities across the UK, in Europe and in Australia throughout 2005. Bristol is the first UK city to sign up to the project. read more

CURRY KING ADDS ANOTHER DOCTORATE TO HIS LIST

Sir Gulam K Noon, the man who made chicken tikka masala Britain's favourite dish, has just received an Honorary Doctorate from Kingston University. Sir Gulam adds this doctorate to a growing collection of honorary degrees. Surrey, Middlesex, Guildford and Birmingham Universities have also recognised him for his business expertise.

FORCED MARRIAGE UNIT LAUNCHED

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Home Office today launched the joint Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) and issued new educational guidelines on the issue of Forced Marriage. The FMU will act as the Government's central point for forced marriage casework, policy and projects and will provide information and assistance to potential victims.

AMIR KHAN VOTED 'SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR'

Rajan Singh, Executive Vice President of Sony Entertainment Television presents Amir Khan with his award.

As the winners were announced at the Sony Entertainment Television Sports Personality of the Year Awards on 22 January, boxing Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan had one more reason to celebrate - he picked up the Sony 'Sports Personality of the Year' Award.

ASIAN JEWEL AWARDS 2005 - NORTHERN FINALISTS

The finalists have been announced for the Asian Jewel Awards (Northern Region) 2005. The Awards, now in their third year, celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals from the UK's South Asian communities in all walks of life.

ASIAN BID AMBASSADORS BACK LONDON 2012

L-R: Tony Lit, Karan Bilimoria, Tony Sarin & Lord Coe.

London’s 2012 Olympic Games bid has been strengthened by the announcement that Karan Bilimoria, Tony Sarin, Raj Loomba and Tony Lit are to be Bid Ambassadors. London has over 30,000 Asian businesses employing over 100,000 people with a turnover of nearly £16bn pa.

COMMISSIONER SHADOWING SCHEME LAUNCHED

Operation Black Vote in partnership with the CRE is launching the Commissioner Shadowing Scheme. The success of other programmes have produced a growing number of participants who have become magistrates and school governors. Each participant will shadow a CRE Commissioner over a period of six months.

'SWASTIKA' EARLY DAY MOTION IN HOUSE OF COMMONS

Stephen Pound MP, Chair of the Labour Friends of India, tabled an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons on 19th January against the proposed Europe-wide ban on the Swastika. The Hindu Forum of Britain, urged British MPs to support it to preserve freedom of worship and understand the importance of the sacred Swastika in Hindu worship.

HFB CAMPAIGN TO RECLAIM SWASTIKA

The Hindu Forum of Britain has launched a national campaign to reclaim the Swastika, regarded as a holy symbol by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains from its Nazi connection. The campaign has been started as a result of German members of the European parliament calling for a Europe-wide ban on the symbol.

ASIAN OFFICER BRINGS RACE DISCRIMINATION CLAIM

Detective Constable Nita Vanand is bringing a claim of race discrimination at a Leicester Tribunal. She is alleging that she was excluded from carrying out an interview of a child victim on grounds of her race and then victimised for complaining.

MPA MEMBER TO VISIT TSUNAMI-HIT PHUKET

MPA magistrate member Aneeta Prem is to visit Phuket, Thailand, to see for herself the work of Metropolitan Police officers and staff who have been there since the tsunami struck on Boxing Day. The Met has been using its world-renowned expertise to help identify victims of the disaster and support family members. The Casualty Bureau can be contacted on 020 7008 0000.

MUSLIM SCHOOLS SINGLED OUT ON CITIZENSHIP CLASSES

Pupils' political and social apathy poses risk to long-term cohesion of local communities, the Chief Inspector of Schools warned today. He went on to call for more to me done to improve the quality of citizenship teaching in schools and aid pupils' understanding of what it is to be British. His remarks, singling out Muslim Faith Schools, have angered many Muslims.

BLASPHEMY LAW SHOULD BE ABOLISHED SAYS CRE

Ministers should press ahead with proposals to create an offence of incitement to religious hatred, Trevor Phillips, Chair of the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) said. Speaking at a meeting to discuss the proposed legislation, he said: "The CRE, as the guardian of a British person's right to equal treatment, believes that all of us should be equal under the law."

HINDUS WANT THE SWASTIKA BACK

Kapil Dudakia of Tthe Milton Keynes Hindu Association, has expressed a view that many Hindus would like the swastika symbol redeemed to its original meaning as an emblem of strength and good luck. The issue has been raging since Prince Harry was pictured wearing a Nazi fancy dress costume bearing the symbol.

HFB INVITES ASIANS TO APPLY FOR PUBLIC APPOINTMENTS

The Hindu Forum of Britain, in partnership with the Experience Corps, is setting up a Register of Interest for Hindus interested in public appointments in Government Departments. "We want to invite qualified people who wish to serve the community through public appointments to write to us," urged Ramesh Kallidai of the Hindu Forum of Britain.

REDHOTCURRY PLEDGES JAN PROFITS TO TSUNAMI APPEAL

Redhotcurry.com has pledged the profits from January sales in its online shop to the Asian Tsunami appeal. The money raised will be donated directly to UNICEF UK. The shop, which launched last year, sells spice boxes, ethnic kitchen utensils, Indian cookbooks and handicraft items.

TRAFFICKING OF TSUNAMI CHILDREN

Exploitation and trafficking of children a serious concern says UNiCEF. © UNICEF video still . Poster of a lost family.

Measures to protect children in the Tsunami zone from exploitation, abuse, and criminal trafficking are needed immediately to prevent them from slipping between the cracks, UNICEF said today, outlining the key steps essential to protecting orphans and other vulnerable children. "Those who would prey upon children in this chaotic environment are already at work." addedUNICEF Executive Director Carol Bellamy.

POLICE DNA DATABASE NEEDS STRONGER SAFEGUARDS

GeneWatch UK today launched a new report on the Police National DNA Database and warned that current policies and new DNA technologies pose increasing threats to privacy and rights. The database contains DNA profiles from more than 2 million people and is set to expand rapidly to include some 5 million people becuase of recent changes in the law.

CINI FIGHTING DISEASE IN ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLANDS

The Indian run charity, The Children In Need Institute (CINI) is taking a leading role in coordinating the relief effort to help the Indian survivors of the recent Tsunami. The charity has teams in place in Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar islands where sources on the ground now believe the death toll stands in excess of 15,000 people.

SCIENTISTS CALL FOR G8 FUNDING TO ALLEVIATE POVERTY

Professor Julia Higgins, Vice-President and Foreign Secretary of The Royal Society.

The UK and other G8 countries must earmark funding to develop the scientific and technological potential of poor nations if they are to eradicate poverty, Professor Julia Higgins, Vice-President and Foreign Secretary of the Royal Society said today (6 January 2005) at a briefing on a key United Nations report on science and the Millennium Development Goals.

£12 MILLION FROM BIG LOTTERY FOR TSUNAMI HIT AREAS

Sir Clive Booth, Chair of the Big Lottery Fund.

The Big Lottery Fund, the largest of the National Lottery Good Cause Distributors has announced today that £12 million will go to a programme of long-term reconstruction initiatives to help tackle the Tsunami Earthquake disaster. Funding will be used for projects aimed at rebuilding communities devastated by the disaster and restoring civil infrastructure.

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN 2005

In a speech given by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown, at the National Gallery of Scotland, he outlined his proposals on International Development in 2005. "This year the UK has special responsibilities as President of the G7 and European Union, a year in which we can tackle not just the terrible consequences of the tsunami but also forge a new 'Marshall Plan' for the developing world.

FCO LAUNCHES SIXTH BRITISH HAJJ DELEGATION TO MECCA

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office in partnership with the British Muslim community is sending a British Hajj Delegation to Mecca to provide help and support to the thousands of British pilgrims that are expected to perform the Hajj this year. Mike O'Brien launched the Delegation with Lord Patel of Blackburn (Leader of the British Hajj Delegation) and Dr. Al-Dubayan (Director General of the Islamic Cultural Centre).

OVERWHELMING NUMBERS VOLUNTEER TO JOIN VSO

VSO, which works through volunteers, has received in excess of 50,000 visits to its website and hundreds of phone calls from professionals wishing to travel to Asia to help the communities affected by the disaster. But the charity is advising that financial donations are currently the most effective support.

MPS URGES TSUNAMI RELATIVES TO CALL BACK

The Metropolitan Police Service is appealing for friends and relatives who have not updated Casualty Bureau of the safe return of their loved ones from south-east Asia to get in touch. In order that Foreign & Commonwealth Office records are up-to-date, we would urge the people who originally called us to ring again.

TSUNAMI APPEAL - MAXIMISE THE MILLIONS

Charities across the UK say the level of fundraising activity for the Tsunami victims is unprecedented. To ensure collections are made as straightforward as possible, the Charity Commission tomorrow publishes guidelines urging people and organisations to 'maximise the millions' being raised.

PROTECTING THE "TSUNAMI GENERATION" OF CHILDREN

Relief effort is underway. UNICEF Indonesia/John Budd/2004.

UNICEF today proposed four fundamental priorities for children that the agency said are essential to the overall success of the relief effort. "I'm not satisfied that the global relief effort is focused enough on the more than million children made vulnerable by this calamity," Bellamy said.

UNICEF HELPING CHILDREN RECOVER FROM TRAUMA

Pradin and Brinda at the relief camp in Kolachel. Copyright UNICEF India/2005

At the relief camp in the village of Kolachel (Tamil Nadu), Pradin appears happy as he plays with his sister Brinda. He and his sister run around the relief camp wearing donated clothes, seemingly oblivious to the destruction surrounding them. However, when asked whether he wants to return home, Pradin's smile quickly disappears.

100% DEBT RELIEF FOR SRI LANKA PROPOSED

Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown today set out the proposals on how the G7 and the international financial institutions can provide further financial assistance to those affected by the tsunami disaster. Gordon Brown said: "Our proposal is that, with immediate effect, the Paris Club should expect no debt repayment from afflicted countries." Sri Lanka and Indonesia would be among the first countries to benefit.

UNICEF SAYS TSUNAMI DEATH ESTIMATES ARE TOO LOW

UNICEF Executive Director Carol Bellamy speaks with children and women seeking refuge at a welfare centre after the tsunami wrecked their homes. © UNICEF/HQ05-0017/Noorani

UNICEF is warning that early estimates of the number of children killed by the tsunami in Sri Lanka are too low. More than 30,000 people died when giant waves swept the island on December 26. UNICEF Director Carol Bellamy says the level of death and devastation is overwhelming.

UNICEF GETS FIRST-HAND LOOK AT PLIGHT OF CHILDREN

UNICEF Executive Director Carol Bellamy speaks to a girl at a crisis centre for orphans in the town of Kilinochchi. © UNICEF/HQ05-0016/Noorani.

UNICEF Executive Director Carol Bellamy is in Sri Lanka getting a first-hand look at the plight of tsunami survivors, especially women and children. Ms. Bellamy arrived in Colombo on Sunday morning and immediately boarded a government helicopter for the hardest-hit regions in Sri Lanka.

UNICEF AID ARRIVES IN ASIA'S HARDEST HIT COUNTRIES

UNICEF Executive Director Carol Bellamy speaks with a girl who was injured during the tsunami at the General Hospital in the southern city of Matara. © UNICEF/HQ05-0012/Noorani

Since the new year began, five planeloads of life-saving UNICEF supplies have arrived in Indonesia and Sri Lanka for victims of the tsunami disaster. "A lot is happening to help these people but there is so much more to do,” said UNICEF Executive Director Carol Bellamy.

UNICEF SUPPLIES WATER TO PARCHED RELIEF CAMPS

Two truckloads of water tanks provided by UNICEF were driven into the tsunami wrecked district of Nagapattinam, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Supplying clean drinking water to hundreds of women and children who are crowded in relief camps is a crucial task, as water sources have already been polluted by piles of garbage nearby.

Click here for July - December 2005 News Stories.

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