Author: Bhakti Narayanan

During his Asia tour, US President Donald Trump announced that Washington and New Delhi are close to signing a long-awaited trade agreement. Speaking before Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) business leaders in South Korea, Trump said discussions between the two nations had advanced significantly, signaling renewed momentum in strengthening bilateral trade relations. Expressing admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump described him as “the nicest-looking guy” and “tough as hell,” praising their strong rapport. While addressing the forum, he also revisited his claim of helping broker a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor in May—a statement New Delhi has…

In a move likely aimed at easing trade tensions with the Trump administration, India has significantly increased its crude oil imports from the United States. According to Kpler data, imports in October have surged to 540,000 barrels per day (bpd) as of October 27 — the highest since 2022. A PTI report indicated that this increase reflects India’s strategy to diversify its energy sources beyond Russia while addressing recent trade challenges with Washington. Energy analyst Sumit Ritolia of Kpler attributed the surge to favourable market conditions, including widened price differentials between Brent and WTI, reduced Chinese demand, and improved arbitrage…

In celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of India’s Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) in Chicago hosted a Unity Walk, drawing over 60 attendees despite the brisk 50°F (10°C) weather. The event symbolized Patel’s enduring legacy of strength and national unity. Several prominent figures graced the occasion, including FIA Trustees Kantibhai N. Patel, Dr. Rashmi Patel, Rakesh Malhotra, and Hina Trivedi, along with Executives Amar Upadhyay, Joy (Dipen) Shah, and Anil Singh. Community leaders such as Haribhai Patel, Sanjay Vora, Manish Patel, Vandana Jhingan, and Anurag Awasthi also participated, emphasizing Patel’s timeless message of…

Chhath Puja, one of the most spiritually profound festivals in India, is devoted to honoring the Sun God, Surya, and his consort Usha. Deeply rooted in devotion and purity, the festival is especially celebrated across Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. Beyond its grand rituals and modern-day practices, Chhath Puja’s essence is anchored in ancient Hindu scriptures, tracing its heritage back to revered epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. These timeless texts depict early versions of the rituals that evolved into the festival as it is observed today. According to the Ramayana, after Lord Rama…

Trinidad and Tobago is preparing to establish a Ram Mandir in its capital, aiming to highlight its growing role as a center of Hindu faith and heritage in the Western Hemisphere. The initiative has received strong backing from the government, which views it as both a cultural milestone and a spiritual landmark. During a meeting with Hindu religious representatives, Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath confirmed the government’s full support for the project. He emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago, often called “Ramayan country,” has long served as a living example of Hindu traditions thriving beyond India. “The Ram Lalla initiative is…

In a powerful display of growing maritime synergy, India and Japan conducted the Japan-India Maritime Exercise 2025 (JAIMEX-25), marking another milestone in their expanding naval cooperation. The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri, an indigenously designed Shivalik-class stealth frigate, represented India in this strategic engagement. The sea phase of the exercise, held from October 16 to 18, was followed by the harbor phase in Yokosuka on October 21. During the drills at sea, INS Sahyadri maneuvered alongside Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessels — Asahi, Oumi, and the submarine Jinryu — engaging in a wide range of advanced operations. These exercises…

 India and the United States are in the advanced stages of negotiating a trade agreement that could significantly reduce tariffs on Indian exports from the current 50% to approximately 15–16%, according to sources cited by Mint. Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran expressed optimism that the dispute over penal tariffs could be resolved within the next two months, potentially leading to the rollback of the extra levies imposed by the White House. Nageswaran suggested that the reciprocal 25% tariffs may also decrease to between 10% and 15%, which would be a notable development for bilateral trade. Key topics under discussion…

India and Canada are taking concrete steps toward revitalizing their economic relationship, as Indian Acting Consul General in Toronto Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh met with Canadian Minister of Economic Development Victor Fedeli to discuss enhanced trade prospects. The meeting comes in preparation for Fedeli’s upcoming trade mission to India, signaling a renewed phase of engagement between the two nations. According to a post by the Consulate General of India in Toronto, the discussion highlighted a forward-looking approach to India–Canada relations, emphasizing growth opportunities across the India–Ontario economic corridor. The dialogue served as a strategic platform to align priorities before the minister’s…

As Diwali illuminated homes across the globe, the Indian-American community in the United States came together to share messages of light, hope, and unity. Prominent leaders and public officials took to social media and community events to celebrate the Festival of Lights, marking the triumph of good over evil and honoring their deep cultural roots. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel, the first Indian-American to lead the agency, greeted people around the world with warm wishes. “Happy Diwali — celebrating the Festival of Lights across the world, as good triumphs over evil,” Patel posted on X, extending his…

 In a vibrant display of cultural appreciation, New York City Mayor Eric Adams hosted a special Diwali celebration at his official residence, Gracie Mansion. The Mayor extended warm greetings to the Indian community, acknowledging their significant contributions to the city’s cultural vibrancy and economic growth. Joining the festivities virtually, Deputy Consul General Vishal Jayeshbhai Harsh represented the Consulate General of India in New York, sharing greetings and emphasizing Diwali’s enduring themes of light, hope, and joy. The Indian Consulate General highlighted the event on social media, praising the community’s active role in New York City’s dynamic life. Meanwhile, in Florida,…