Author: Akancha Mishra

Vice President JD Vance has significantly shortened his planned trip to Greenland, now limiting his visit to a brief stop at the U.S.-operated Pituffik Space Base. This decision follows heightened tensions after former President Donald Trump’s renewed comments about America’s interest in the Arctic island. Originally, his wife, Usha Vance, and one of their children were scheduled to spend multiple days in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, attending cultural events such as a prestigious dogsled race. However, on March 25, the White House announced that JD Vance would accompany them, but the visit would now be restricted to a single-day stop at…

Leo Varadkar, Ireland’s former prime minister, is transitioning from politics to public relations as he prepares to join Washington, D.C.-based Penta Group next month. The PR firm, which acquired Ireland’s Hume Brophy in 2023, specializes in strategic communications. The 46-year-old’s new role aligns with Penta’s commitment to data-driven policymaking, according to CEO Matt McDonald, who praised Varadkar’s leadership skills and extensive policy expertise. Varadkar stepped down as Ireland’s prime minister in March last year, citing both political and personal reasons. His unexpected resignation came just 15 months into his second tenure. Expressing gratitude for his time in office, he acknowledged…

Thousands gathered in Richmond Hill, Queens, on Sunday, March 23, to welcome spring with the vibrant celebration of Holi at the 37th annual Phagwah Parade. Liberty Avenue was transformed into a sea of colors as revelers joyfully threw powdered pigments, danced, and participated in a grand cultural display. The festivities kicked off well before the official 10 a.m. start, with dozens of floats rolling down the parade route. Spiritual leaders from the Federation of Hindu Mandirs led the event with traditional mantras and prayers, setting a reverent tone before giving way to high-energy performances. Indian dancers in regal sarees captivated…

Second Lady Usha Vance is proving to be more than just a supportive spouse in the public eye. With a strong professional background, she is actively embracing her role without overshadowing it. However, her approach under the Trump administration remains a subject of discussion. Vance is set to travel to Greenland on Thursday with her young son as part of a U.S. delegation. This visit has stirred fresh diplomatic tensions, given President Donald Trump’s past remarks about acquiring Greenland, a Danish territory. Officials from both countries have expressed concerns about the trip’s implications. The White House announced on Sunday that…

The University of Michigan Board of Regents has confirmed Neel U. Sukhatme as the upcoming David A. Breach Dean of Law and a professor of law. Currently a professor at Georgetown University Law Center, Sukhatme will assume his role on July 1, 2025, for a renewable five-year term. Provost Laurie K. McCauley welcomed Sukhatme, praising his innovative scholarship and commitment to public good. She expressed confidence in his visionary leadership, which will strengthen Michigan Law’s standing in legal education and research. Sukhatme, who has served as associate dean for research and academic programs at Georgetown, brings extensive experience in faculty…

Arizona State Senator Priya Sundareshan, an Indian-origin lawmaker, has been nominated for the Gabrielle Giffords Rising Star Award by EMILYs List, recognizing her leadership in voting rights, environmental protection, and reproductive rights. Representing Arizona’s 18th Senate District, Sundareshan has emerged as a strong progressive voice, opposing extreme abortion bans and advocating for contraception access through new legislation. Who is Priya Sundareshan? Currently serving as Minority Leader in the Arizona Senate, Sundareshan plays a crucial role in state policy. She was honored with the Rising Environmental Leader Award in 2023 for her work in sustainability and conservation. Born into an Indian-American…

People’s Light has appointed Shonali Burke, an Indian-origin leader, as its new Managing Director, effective June 1, 2025. Burke’s selection follows a national search, and she brings extensive experience in strategic leadership, audience engagement, and revenue growth in the nonprofit and regional theatre sectors. Burke will work alongside Producing Artistic Director Zak Berkman as a co-equal leader, focusing on strategic planning, financial management, and operational oversight. Her appointment comes as People’s Light celebrates its 50th anniversary season and prepares for further innovation and expansion. “Shonali’s leadership and passion for storytelling make her the perfect person to guide us into the…

During her official visit to India, Indian-origin US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where the two leaders discussed India-US ties and their shared Sanatan Dharma values. PM Modi presented Gabbard with a sacred Rudraksha mala and a vase of Gangajal from the Maha Kumbh Mela, symbolizing the spiritual and cultural bonds between India and its diaspora. Rudraksha, revered in Hinduism, is associated with Lord Shiva, while Gangajal from the Maha Kumbh holds deep purifying and sacred significance in Sanatan Dharma. Their discussions focused on spiritual and cultural diplomacy, alongside strengthening strategic partnerships between India…

Rajini Sundararaj, an esteemed educator from Atlanta, has been honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching, the nation’s most prestigious recognition in STEM education. This award acknowledges her dedication to shaping young minds and her profound impact on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Expressing her gratitude, Sundararaj credited her success to the unwavering support of her family, colleagues, school administrators, and the wider community. On January 13, 2025, the President announced 336 teachers and mentors across the country as recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) and the Presidential Awards…

A team from the University of Washington, led by Indian-American student Tejoram Vivekanandan, has won the $15,000 grand prize at the Hollomon Health Innovation Challenge for their non-invasive jaundice detection technology. Their startup, Luminovah, aims to enhance early diagnosis and treatment of newborn jaundice, a condition that remains the fourth-largest cause of neonatal mortality. “Our motivation is saving lives,” said Vivekanandan, who serves as the tech lead for Luminovah. He highlighted the shortcomings of existing jaundice detection methods, particularly in accurately diagnosing babies with darker skin tones. “It’s really hard to get a model working on all skin colors, but…