Extensive research has demonstrated that extended periods of sitting can negatively impact overall health, particularly cardiovascular well-being. Earlier studies suggested that standing for extended intervals might mitigate some adverse effects associated with prolonged sitting. However, a recent investigation conducted by researchers at the University of Sydney challenges this notion. Their research suggests that extending the time spent standing does not improve heart health in the long run when compared to sitting. In fact, it may increase the risk of circulatory issues associated with standing, including deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins. Furthermore, the study revealed that sitting for over ten…
Author: Akancha Mishra
Akancha Mishra
Akancha has been a journalist for about twenty years, and she has a Bachelor of Arts in English Honors and a Master's Degree in Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication. She and her husband and children Supriya and Alok currently call New York City home.
In a historic election, Indian-origin candidates with roots in Punjab have achieved a record 14 seats in the 93-member British Columbia assembly, surpassing the previous high of nine in the last election. The New Democratic Party (NDP) maintained its hold with 46 seats, while the Conservative Party secured 45, and the Green Party claimed two seats. The Greens are now positioned to influence the formation of the next government in British Columbia. Prominent winners include former housing minister Ravi Kahlon and former attorney-general Niki Sharma. Kahlon, a former field hockey player, represented Canada in the 2000 and 2008 Summer Olympics…
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised renowned global investor Mark Mobius for his strong confidence in India’s economic growth, citing his recent comments on the country’s long-term potential. Speaking at the NDTV World Summit, Modi highlighted Mobius’ recommendation that global funds allocate 50% of their investments to Indian markets. Mobius had previously expressed his intent to invest equally in the US and India over the next several years, emphasizing that India’s growth is not just short-term, but a long-lasting development. Mobius also acknowledged that while other nations, such as China, might become attractive in the future, India’s economic rise would persist…
The Tri-State Annual Gala hosted by the non-profit Akshaya Patra on October 12, 2024, at the Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott raised an impressive $3 million to support its mission of eradicating classroom hunger. The event, attended by 500 guests, featured high-profile speakers and performers, with proceeds boosted by a silent auction. Dr. Rachana Kulkarni, head of Akshaya Patra’s tri-state chapter, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support. The evening highlighted Akshaya Patra’s impact, especially after the organization was recognized by the United Nations in April 2024 for its work in eradicating hunger and expanding quality education. The gala, themed “A…
The Indo-American Association (IAA), a Houston-based cultural institution, is excited to introduce its Artist Development Program, starting on October 22, 2024. This four-week initiative is designed to help artists of color, including those from Indian, Pakistani, Black, Indigenous, and other backgrounds, strengthen their skills and establish stable careers in the arts. The program aims to benefit artists at all stages, whether emerging, mid-career, or established, by providing them with a comprehensive curriculum focused on industry knowledge and career sustainability. Participants will gain valuable insights into the arts industry, practical tools for enhancing their artistic practices, and strategies to succeed in…
As of September 2024, the mutual fund industry’s assets under management (AUM) reached an impressive $798.25 billion, marking a 0.58% increase from August and a remarkable 25.64% jump since March 2024, according to a report from Axis Mutual Fund. The industry has maintained strong growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.19% since March 2021. Equity funds led the charge in September with a 3.37% growth, while hybrid funds followed with a 1.64% rise. In contrast, debt funds experienced a 1.33% drop, and cash assets saw a sharp 14.87% decline, indicating a change in liquidity preferences. Equity AUM…
World Bank President Ajay Banga lauded India’s growth rate as one of the most impressive in the global economy, attributing much of this progress to the strength of its domestic market. Speaking to reporters ahead of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund’s annual meeting, Banga remarked, “Achieving growth rates of six to seven percent in the current global environment reflects the successful measures India has implemented.” He pointed out that a significant portion of this growth is fueled by domestic demand, which is a positive indicator. However, he also highlighted the need for India to focus on improving quality…
Anirban Kundu, a former executive at Uber, has been appointed as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Instacart, the online grocery delivery service, the company announced on October 16 through a blog post. Kundu, an Indian American, will officially join Instacart later this month, following his recent position as Vice President and Head of Engineering for Uber Delivery. In his new role, Kundu will be tasked with leading Instacart’s technical team as the company continues to grow its influence in the grocery industry. The blog post praised Kundu’s deep expertise in managing multi-sided marketplaces, calling him the ideal person to…
On Tuesday, India and the United States finalized agreements worth $3.87 billion for the procurement of 31 Predator drones for the three armed services and the establishment of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India. The contracts were signed in the presence of senior defence officials. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the acquisition of the 31 drones last week. Out of these, 15 will be allocated to the Indian Navy, while the remaining drones will be evenly distributed between the Air Force and the Army. Defence officials confirmed to ANI on Monday that the foreign military…
Dr. Nandika D’Souza has been appointed as associate dean of strategic initiatives at The University of Texas at Dallas in the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science. While engineering was an unconventional field for girls during her youth, her mother encouraged her to pursue it as a path to financial stability after the death of her father. D’Souza’s passion for engineering was sparked during her studies, especially in a statics class where the design of structures captured her imagination. In her new role at UT Dallas, Dr. D’Souza aims to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for students from…
