Author: Deepika chandrasekar

Indian American Aaron “Ronnie” Chatterji, a professor of business and public policy at Duke University, has been appointed OpenAI’s first Chief Economist. With a distinguished career that bridges academia and government, including key roles in the Obama and Biden administrations, Chatterji will lead research on the economic impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and its effects on global growth and labor markets. Chatterji has served as the Biden administration’s CHIPS coordinator, overseeing the $52 billion CHIPS and Science Act, and previously held the position of Chief Economist at the U.S. Department of Commerce. His expertise in economic strategy and innovation positions…

The Association of Indians in America, New York Chapter (AIA-NY), hosted its 37th Annual Diwali Festival with vibrant celebrations aboard a Skyline Princess cruise on October 6, 2024. The event attracted over 400 guests from the community, who were dressed in traditional Indian attire, and sailed from World Fair Marina in Flushing, NY. The stunning fall weather added to the festivities, creating a warm and joyous atmosphere. AIA-NY President, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, delivered the welcome address, noting the breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline as guests cruised along the East River. Passengers marveled at landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty…

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed optimism about a potential soft landing for the global economy, noting the stabilizing effect of coordinated actions among countries and multilateral financial institutions. Speaking at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, DC, she emphasized that inflation has been controlled effectively, allowing the global economy to slowly move toward recovery. However, she cautioned that economic growth remains moderate, with advanced economies showing limited demand, thus impacting global trade and commodity-dependent nations. Highlighting fiscal challenges, she acknowledged that many countries face the task of managing high fiscal deficits due to pandemic-related borrowing.…

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the deepening relationship between India and Germany, referencing recent collaborative efforts as evidence of their growing friendship. Speaking at the 18th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business 2024, he stated, “While the CEO Forum convenes here, our navies are also conducting joint exercises, with German naval vessels making a port visit in Goa. Shortly, the seventh inter-governmental consultations between India and Germany will take place.” He added, “This signifies that the friendship between India and Germany is advancing at every step, across all fronts.” PM Modi noted that this year marks the 25th anniversary…

Two Indian-origin Chief Executive Officers have made it into the top 10 of the world’s highest-paid CEOs from S&P 500 companies. According to recent reports, Nikesh Arora, CEO of Palo Alto Networks Inc, ranks within the top 10, earning $151.4 million, equivalent to ₹12.73 billion (₹1,273.05 crore). Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft Corp, also features on the list, with an annual pay of $48.5 million, or ₹4.07 billion (₹407.85 crore). Additionally, other notable Indian-origin CEOs like Ravi Kumar of Cognizant Technology Solutions and Shantanu Narayen of Adobe Inc. are also highlighted for their significant earnings. In the past decade, executive…

The Directorate General of Hindu Community Guidance under Indonesia’s Ministry of Religion honored outstanding Hindu religious teachers at the National Outstanding Hindu Religious Teacher Award 2024 ceremony, held on October 15 in Bogor, West Java. This prestigious recognition aims to inspire educators to continue excelling in their roles. According to Trimo, Director of Hindu Education, the event coincided with the 2024 Teachers’ Day celebration, and it emphasizes not just professional success but also the importance of being a positive influence within one’s community. Trimo urged the awardees to embody excellence in their thoughts, words, and actions, encouraging them to be…

There is a possibility that a Trump presidency might prioritize a “Make America Great Again” agenda over Vice President Harris, despite her Indian heritage. Although she has recognized her roots, Harris has not actively engaged with India during her tenure. This can be attributed to her role as vice president, where alignment with the administration’s policy is paramount. Displaying too much affinity for India might expose her to accusations of divided loyalties. Should she ascend to the presidency, Harris’s policies would likely align with American national interests as defined by her party, maintaining continuity with Biden’s administration. The Biden administration…

In a surprising turn of events at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania, Donald Trump took to the fry station to serve food and extended birthday wishes to his rival, Kamala Harris, who celebrated her 60th birthday. During his time at the fast-food restaurant, Trump remarked, “Happy birthday, Kamala… maybe I’ll bring her some flowers along with fries.” As supporters lined up to see the former president pop up at the drive-thru window, Trump, 78, received a quick lesson from a McDonald’s employee on how to properly fry the potatoes. He later helped bag orders, showcasing a hands-on approach to engaging with…

According to a report by McKinsey & Company, India is projected to secure 8-10% of the global work share outsourced to Contract Research Development & Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs) by 2033. This forecast arises from a notable shift of outsourcing activities from the EU and US towards Asian countries, with India and South Korea emerging as key players. The global CDMO sector, currently valued at approximately $224 billion, is expected to grow to $465 billion by 2032. The McKinsey analysis highlights that the changing geopolitical landscape is prompting Indian CRDMOs to anticipate that 20-40% of their future business will be influenced…

At least eight companies led by Indian Americans have been featured in the US Chamber of Commerce’s prestigious 2024 CO—100 list. This list recognizes 100 of the most outstanding small and mid-sized businesses across America for their innovation, growth, and positive impact on their communities. These companies are celebrated for their creative ideas, overcoming challenges, fostering strong company cultures, and engaging with customers on a deeper level, according to the Chamber. Among the highlighted businesses is Digit7, led by AI expert Chithrai Mani, recognized as the top honoree in the Digital Innovators category. Known for its pioneering AI solutions, Digit7…