Author: Bhakti Narayanan

Geoffrey Pyatt, the Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, expressed confidence in the enduring strength of the energy relationship between the U.S. and India, which he described as pivotal on the global stage. During his recent visit to India in January, Pyatt emphasized the potential for enhanced collaboration between the two countries, despite acknowledging potential slowdowns due to upcoming election cycles. Addressing an online international media briefing on February 5, Pyatt shared his optimistic outlook, noting the shared strategic objectives between Indian and U.S. bureaucracies and the alignment in private sector efforts. Discussions during his visit centered on energy…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated his government’s vision for diminishing reliance on fossil fuels during the India Energy Week in Goa, emphasizing the strides made in the energy sector under his administration. He highlighted Goa’s dynamic environment, expressing pride in its development and hospitality, suggesting it as an apt venue for discussions on environmental sensitivity and sustainability. Inaugurating the second edition of India Energy Week 2024, PM Modi underscored India’s remarkable progress in solar capacity, with a twenty-fold increase over the decade. He noted a significant rise in ethanol blending and the phased introduction of a 20% blended fuel, slated…

Governor Phil Murphy took a significant step towards strengthening the bonds between New Jersey and India by establishing the New Jersey-India Commission. During the signing of the executive order, Governor Murphy expressed his commitment to fostering enduring cultural and economic connections between the two regions. Present at the ceremony were Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Tahesha Way, Consul General of India in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, and members of the Indian American community. The creation of the commission, as outlined in an official statement, aims to facilitate bilateral trade and investment and promote economic growth in both New…

According to a press release by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), India’s first human-manned space flight, named ‘Gaganyaan’, is set to carry Indian astronauts into space, with the woman robot astronaut ‘Vyommitra’ slated to precede it. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh disclosed that the ‘Vyommitra Mission’ is scheduled for the third quarter of this year, while the manned ‘Gaganyaan’ mission is slated for launch in 2025. Here are five key points about the ‘Vyommitra Mission’: – The name ‘Vyommitra’ is derived from Sanskrit, combining ‘Vyoma’ meaning space and ‘Mitra’ meaning friend. – This female robot astronaut is…

At the 66th Grammy Awards in the US, Ustad Zakir Hussain achieved a remarkable feat by winning three awards. The renowned tabla player and music composer secured the prestigious ‘Best Global Music Performance’ for ‘Pashto.’ In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Hussain expressed gratitude to the Academy and fellow musicians. Additionally, the collaboration ‘As We Speak,’ featuring Hussain, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, and Rakesh Chaurasia, clinched the Grammy for ‘Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.’ Further contributing to the success, Hussain’s involvement in the Jazz group ‘Shakti’ led to the group winning ‘The Best Global Music Album’ award for their latest release, ‘This…

Renowned Michelin star chef Vikas Khanna has revealed plans for a new restaurant in New York, set to open its doors on March 23. This establishment, named ‘Bungalow,’ holds a special significance as it pays homage to Khanna’s late sister, Radhika, who succumbed to an autoimmune disease, lupus, and related complications on February 28, 2022. In a heartfelt social media announcement, Khanna expressed gratitude for the support of his followers, emphasizing that ‘Bungalow’ serves as a “cultural bridge between India and the US.” The chef also opened up about his personal challenges and past business endeavors that didn’t succeed. Radhika,…

In a recent address at IIM Mumbai, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized India’s growing capability, influence, and reputation, asserting that these factors necessitate its assistance to other nations in times of crisis. Specifically, he highlighted the Indian Navy’s recent rescue missions, addressing both piracy and missile drone threats. During the event, Jaishankar revealed that the Indian Navy had deployed ten ships to tackle piracy and missile drone issues. He cited a recent incident where INS Vishakhapatnam extinguished a fire and rescued a tanker’s crew, which had fallen victim to a drone. Additionally, he commended the Indian Navy for rescuing…

During his recent State visit to India, French President Emmanuel Macron introduced “Classes Internationales,” an exclusive program tailored for Indian students. This initiative allows students to spend a year in France, acquiring proficiency in French before commencing their chosen degree programs. The Classes Internationales program aims to broaden access to France’s renowned education for high-achieving Indian students. It invites students, regardless of their current French proficiency, to enroll in French-taught undergraduate programs across various fields in esteemed French higher education institutions. Characterized by inclusivity, the program welcomes students with a focus on academic excellence. Participants will have the opportunity to…

The Australian Air Force swiftly transported emergency relief assistance from India to Papua New Guinea. The USD 1 million relief consignment was airlifted from Port Moresby to Kimbe, the capital of West New Britain, for distribution within the province. The Indian High Commission in Papua New Guinea expressed gratitude, highlighting the timely response to the immediate needs of Papua New Guinea. In the previous month, a special charter flight loaded with supplies took off from New Delhi as part of India’s commitment to aiding those affected by the volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea. This initiative, encompassing approximately 11 tonnes…

As the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir concludes, Ayodhya is witnessing a significant economic boost. The ceremony alone has generated business exceeding $1.2 billion nationwide, and with the temple opening to devotees on January 23, Ayodhya anticipates a substantial increase in religious tourism. Discover five pivotal points outlining how the Ram Mandir influences Ayodhya’s economy. 1. Ayodhya’s Infrastructure: Ayodhya is undergoing extensive infrastructure development, including the beautification of roads and the construction of public facilities such as mutts, ashrams, dharmashalas, and commercial hotels. This substantial construction is expected to stimulate Ayodhya’s economy by creating local employment opportunities and driving…