Mining nod for Adani’s Australia project stirs debate

18/04/2016 0 Comments read Business and Trade, Environment & Development

By Neena Bhandari

Sydney, 18.04.2016 (India Climate Dialogue): As coal prices slump and demand dips — and notwithstanding the continuing legal challenges by environmental and indigenous groups — the Queensland government has approved three mining leases for Adani Mining Pty Ltd’s (AMPL) Carmichael coal mine, rail and port project. Touted as Australia’s largest coal mine, the AUD 16.5 billion (USD 12.5 billion) project has been labelled “commercially unviable”. There are fears that it could also impact local communities as well as the Great Barrier Reef.

The three mines for which leases were granted on April 3, 2016 contain an estimated 11 billion tonnes of coal that can be used for power plants. AMPL, a subsidiary of India-based Adani Enterprises Ltd, has announced that it hopes to begin construction next year and focus “on the conclusion of second tier approvals and resolution of legal challenges”.

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Indians celebrate festivals, Australia benefits

21/01/2016 0 Comments read Business and Trade, Diaspora

By Neena Bhandari,

Sydney, 21.01.2016 (Business Standard, India): Come October and with the ripening of mangoes, the Indian community in Australia gears up for festivities that not only provide business opportunities for the Diaspora, but also make a substantial contribution to the local economy.

Diwali has been added to Australia’s multicultural calendar as one of the largest festivals. Organised by the Hindu Council of Australia (HCA) in Sydney and Celebrate India Inc. in Melbourne, the festival provides a platform for corporations and small businesses to showcase their wares. From banks and telecom companies, apparel and cuisine, henna and jewellery to media and entertainment, the festival has also found sponsors in the local and state government organisations.

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Unwind in style – Australia’s luxury ecolodges

01/12/2015 0 Comments read Travel

By Neena Bhandari

Australia is known for its ‘rough around the edges’ vibe, often evoking images of rugged landscapes and a host of unique—almost prehistoric—creatures and creepy-crawlies. But tucked amidst unique landscapes—from the World Heritage-listed rainforests and reefs to pristine coastal destinations and the vast, wild outback—are some of the world’s premier eco-lodges that allow you to enjoy the country’s natural wonders without having to rough it out.

Though equipped with plenty of bells and whistles, these luxury eco-lodges adhere to the highest sustainable standards, allowing you to indulge guilt-free. The limit imposed on the number of guests they are willing to accommodate at a time allows one visual and acoustic privacy and a chance to peacefully interact with nature.

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