Author: Bhakti Narayanan

Divya Tyagi, an aerospace engineering graduate student of Indian origin at Pennsylvania State University, has made a groundbreaking discovery by refining a century-old mathematical problem. Her innovative approach simplifies the complex calculations, making them more practical for further exploration. The problem, originally formulated by British aerodynamicist Hermann Glauert, has been a key component of aerodynamics research for decades. By building on Glauert’s work, Tyagi has introduced a fresh perspective that could revolutionize wind turbine design, as highlighted by Penn State University’s official website. “I developed an extension to Glauert’s work that determines the optimal aerodynamic conditions for a wind turbine,…

At just 10 years old, Sri Nihal Tammana witnessed a TV report about a lithium-ion battery explosion at a California waste plant. Realizing the environmental dangers of discarded batteries—such as pollution, fire hazards, and toxic emissions—he took action. Sri Nihal founded Recycle My Battery (RMB), a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and providing easy solutions for battery recycling. Over the past five years, his initiative has evolved into a worldwide movement. Since launching the campaign, Nihal has successfully helped recycle over 625,000 batteries, preventing hazardous waste from contaminating the environment. His efforts have educated approximately 40 million people through educational…

During her visit to India, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard expressed her deep connection with the country, calling it a place where she always feels at home. She spoke fondly of India’s rich culture, spiritual heritage, and cuisine, emphasizing the profound influence of the Bhagavad Gita on her life. “India holds a special place in my heart. Every time I visit, I feel an incredible sense of belonging,” Gabbard stated on Monday. She praised the country’s warm and hospitable people, as well as its flavorful cuisine, sharing that dal makhani and fresh paneer dishes are her personal favorites.…

As the world prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, FIA Chicago stands as a pillar of empowerment, cultural unity, and inclusivity within the Asian Indian community. Under the leadership of Sunil Shah, the organization has grown threefold in just two years, making it the largest and most influential Asian community organization in the Midwest. Behind Sunil Shah’s success is the unwavering support of Mrs. Rita Sunil Shah, whose belief in his vision has been a driving force behind FIA’s remarkable journey. Her steadfast encouragement has played a key role in shaping the organization’s legacy. FIA Chicago has made historic…

Bawa Jain has been honored by the City of New York, under the leadership of Mayor Eric Adams, for his dedication to global peace, inter-religious dialogue, and spiritual leadership. The official citation was initially awarded during Diwali celebrations in October 2024, but unforeseen circumstances delayed its formal presentation. Recognizing the honor’s timely significance, Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, a staunch supporter of the South Asian community, praised Jain’s lifelong commitment to peace and interfaith harmony. Presenting the award on behalf of Mayor Adams, Chauhan highlighted Jain’s global impact in promoting unity, diversity, and mutual respect. In his acceptance speech, Bawa Jain…

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated Indian American official Harry Kumar as the Assistant Secretary of Commerce. Kumar has served as Director of Government Relations at the Department of Commerce for the past four years. The White House announced his nomination as part of a broader list of candidates for diplomatic, defense, and administrative positions, which has been sent to the Senate for confirmation. Kumar’s career in government spans several roles. During Trump’s first term, he worked as Associate Director for Legislative Affairs from November 2019 to January 2021. Before that, he served as a Legislative Assistant in the…

NASA has confirmed that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for nine months, will finally return to Earth on Tuesday evening. They will be joined by NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. The space agency will stream live coverage of the Crew-9 mission’s return, starting Monday night at 10:45 p.m. EDT with hatch closure procedures. NASA and SpaceX convened on Sunday to evaluate splashdown conditions near Florida, ensuring a safe return for the astronauts. Mission managers are aiming for an early…

Vice President JD Vance reaffirmed that holding a green card does not grant immigrants an indefinite right to stay in the United States. Speaking on The Ingraham Angle on Fox News, Vance stressed that the ultimate decision regarding a green card holder’s status lies with the U.S. government. “A green card holder doesn’t have an indefinite right to be in the United States,” Vance said, emphasizing that the Secretary of State and the President have the authority to determine who remains in the country. His remarks came in response to the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student…

In a significant gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the issuance of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam and his wife, Veena Ramgoolam, on Tuesday. The announcement came during a community gathering attended by over 3,500 people, including members of the Mauritius Cabinet, government officials, and National Assembly representatives. Earlier in the day, Modi personally handed over OCI cards to Mauritius’ President Dharambeer Gokhool and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool. This event, marking the first day of his official visit, emphasized India’s dedication to fostering strong diaspora and diplomatic ties with Mauritius. During President Droupadi…

Rohit Karnik, an Indian American professor of mechanical engineering at MIT, has been appointed director of the Abdul Latif Jameel Water and Food Systems Lab (J-WAFS), the university’s only program dedicated to water and food research. His tenure began on March 1, as MIT celebrates J-WAFS’ 10th anniversary. Karnik, who previously served as J-WAFS’ associate director since 2023, has played a key role in grant management, corporate collaborations, and strategic planning. Vice President for Research Ian A. Waitz praised Karnik’s leadership, research expertise, and dedication to advancing the lab’s mission. Established in 2015, J-WAFS has provided approximately $25 million in…