Author: Deepika chandrasekar

The India Global Forum (IGF) officially launched its event in the United States on Thursday, with a distinguished group of Indian business leaders taking part in private discussions with incoming administration members and US policymakers. This milestone event comes just before President-elect Donald Trump’s second inauguration and emphasizes the strengthening relationship between the United States and India. The forum facilitated open and informal dialogue on pressing issues affecting US-India ties, particularly in the realms of geopolitics, security, defense, and economic growth. Key topics covered included President Trump’s populist policies, shifts in US electoral dynamics, and the influential role of the…

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has appointed Dr. Rick Mukherjee as the inaugural director of its Quantum Center, a division of the UTC Research Institute. Chosen in mid-2024, Dr. Mukherjee officially assumed the position on December 1. This marks a significant step toward building a top-tier Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) program at UTC. With $3.5 million in funding from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the UTC Quantum Center will focus on infrastructure, education, case-driven research, and business development to secure its long-term sustainability. “UTC’s dedication to advancing quantum research showcases its vision for…

A recent global survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), conducted in collaboration with Oxford University’s Europe in a Changing World project, indicates that a majority of Indians view Donald Trump’s potential return to the US presidency positively. The study categorizes India as part of the “Trump Welcomers,” a group of nations that sees a second Trump presidency as beneficial for their own countries, the United States, and global peace. In India, 85% of respondents expressed optimism about Trump’s presidency for the United States, while 84% believed it would benefit India directly. Furthermore, 82% agreed it would contribute…

US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month, coinciding with the Tamil harvest festival, Pongal. In a post on X, Krishnamoorthi remarked, “January holds special significance for the 360,000 Tamil Americans in the US, as they celebrate the vibrant festival of Pongal.” The resolution acknowledges Tamil as one of the world’s oldest languages, spoken by over 80 million people globally, including 360,000 Tamil Americans. In a press release, Krishnamoorthi expressed pride in introducing this resolution, celebrating Tamil heritage and culture within the United States and beyond. Tamil Americans United PAC…

India is projected to secure its place as the world’s fourth largest economy by 2026, overtaking Japan, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 6.8% in FY25 and an anticipated 7.7% in FY26. The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) credits this impressive trajectory to the country’s strong economic resilience and solid macroeconomic foundation. To further fuel this growth, PHDCCI suggests increasing the income tax exemption threshold to $11,566 and limiting the highest tax rate to incomes exceeding $46,264. These adjustments are expected to enhance disposable income and consumption. Additionally, the industry body anticipates the Reserve Bank…

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has spotlighted India’s potential to emerge as a global leader in data centres. Speaking at the Thuglak 55th-year anniversary event in Chennai, he outlined the nation’s strides in infrastructure development and technology investments, which are laying the foundation for significant economic growth. Goyal highlighted that India’s unique interconnected power grid, established in just three years, has eradicated regional energy cost disparities. This reliable and green energy network has piqued international interest, fostering investment in fields like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and tech-based enterprises. He attributed India’s development to the “5Ds” framework: Democracy, Demographic…

India maintained its position as the third-largest global fintech funding recipient in 2024, despite a 33% year-over-year decline, with total funding reaching $1.9 billion, according to Tracxn’s Annual India Fintech Report. This marks a significant drop compared to $2.8 billion in 2023 and $5.6 billion in 2022, reflecting the sector’s challenges amid global geopolitical tensions and reduced demand. Despite the downturn, India’s fintech ecosystem remains among the world’s top three, following the US and the UK. The year saw the emergence of two new unicorns, Money View and Perfios, surpassing the single unicorn reported in 2023. A notable recovery occurred…

Amidst the ongoing debate over H-1B visas, US Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden emphasized America’s immigrant heritage and the need for legal immigration reforms. Speaking to PTI, she noted the overwhelming contributions of Indian professionals, who dominate the H-1B visa program, particularly in technology, with a Congressional cap of 65,000 visas annually, plus 20,000 for US-educated individuals. Tanden condemned the hate campaign against Indian-Americans following Sriram Krishnan’s appointment as White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence by President-elect Donald Trump. She highlighted the importance of countering such vitriol, stating, “It’s crucial to denounce attacks on Indian-Americans and ensure all are…

During the ‘Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue,’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the critical role of India’s youth in transforming the country into a developed nation by 2047. He expressed confidence that economic, social, and cultural progress could be achieved through the capabilities and determination of the younger population. PM Modi urged the youth to embrace the spirit of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ taking ownership of this vision and contributing to its realization. The Prime Minister underscored India’s ambitious goals, including achieving the 20% ethanol blending target ahead of schedule and fostering active participation among citizens in driving growth. Drawing inspiration from…

In a landmark victory for diversity in U.S. politics, two Indian Americans—one of whom is Sikh—have won seats in the Virginia state legislature. This victory highlights the growing inclusiveness of American governance. The Sikh community leader, whose family hails from Punjab, credited his cultural heritage and grassroots activism as the driving forces behind his campaign. He emphasized his commitment to community-driven policies, with a focus on affordable healthcare, public education, and economic opportunities. The second victor, an attorney, also garnered significant grassroots support and campaigned on a platform focused on job creation, social equity, and environmental sustainability. These wins underscore…