Author: Malavika Subramanyan

Ash Kalra, the first Indian American elected to the California State Assembly, has been designated as the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Judiciary by Speaker Robert Rivas. Expressing gratitude for the appointment on Nov 22, Kalra emphasized the importance of safeguarding civil rights and ensuring a just legal system. Having served on the committee for seven years, he commended the leadership of Chairs Stone and Maienschein, expressing readiness to contribute further. Speaker Rivas praised Kalra’s commitment to justice, highlighting the foundational role of the justice system in ensuring public safety and holding offenders accountable. Kalra’s new role involves primary…

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the victims and heroes of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, emphasizing its enduring impact on the nation’s collective memory. During the 107th episode of his monthly broadcast, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi acknowledged the profound shock caused by the heinous attack, stating it remains an indelible part of India’s history. Reflecting on the courage and resilience of the country, PM Modi highlighted that India, in the face of such terror, now responds with strength and determination. He specifically addressed the significance of the day when India confronted this grievous act of…

Ranbir Kapoor expressed his admiration for Bobby Deol, mentioning he grew up watching him and discovered their similarities as individuals when they collaborated on their upcoming film, Animal. Describing Animal as an “adult-rated Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham,” Ranbir highlighted that the movie revolves around a man who goes to great lengths to safeguard his family. At the trailer launch, Ranbir revealed he portrayed the “most complex character” of his career in Animal, emphasizing the exploration of violence and societal questions in the film. In reference to his character, Ranbir differentiated it as not merely “darkness” but the most intricate role…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi experienced a Tejas aircraft flight at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Commending India’s self-sufficiency in defense, Modi underscored his government’s commitment to indigenous production. The visit encompassed an assessment of HAL’s manufacturing site, emphasizing the strategic importance of Tejas. Under Modi’s leadership, a substantial order of $4.9 billion for 83 LCA Mk 1A aircraft has been placed, with deliveries beginning by February 2024. Over $1.2 billion has been allocated for the development of the more advanced LCA Mk 2. Efforts to enhance indigenous capabilities include negotiations with GE for the manufacturing of aircraft engines.…

Nikki Haley, a prominent Indian American Republican presidential candidate, has emerged as the primary alternative to Donald Trump, surpassing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, according to the Washington Post. While Trump maintains a substantial lead in state and national surveys, Haley’s ascendancy is evident in Iowa, New Hampshire, and her home state of South Carolina. Backed by well-received debate performances, she has attracted attention from wealthy donors and emphasizes broad appeal and unity within the Republican Party. However, Haley faces challenges ahead. Her pitch to move beyond Trump is at odds with the prevailing sentiment within the party, where Trump remains…

Pankaj Advani secured his 26th title by defeating Sourav Kothari in the IBSF World Billiards Championship final on November 21. This victory marked a rematch of their previous year’s final in Kuala Lumpur, where Advani emerged victorious with a score of 1000416. The significance of this championship dates back to 2005, when Advani clinched his inaugural global title. Over the years, his dominance in billiards has been evident with nine “long format” championships, eight “point format” championships, and one World Team Billiards Championship. In the 2023 tournament, Advani triumphed in the semi-final against Rupesh Shah with a scoreline of 900-273.…

Surya Ganguli, an associate professor of applied physics and associate director of the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI, has earned a spot in the 2023 Schmidt Science Polymaths Program cohort. This prestigious recognition comes with an annual grant of $500,000 for up to five years to support Ganguli’s interdisciplinary research. Utilizing the awarded grant, Ganguli aims to delve into an interdisciplinary research program, focusing on understanding interactions among nonlinear elements in neural networks. This research spans both biological and artificial systems, seeking to unravel the remarkable emergent computational capabilities they display. At Stanford University, Ganguli currently leads the Neural Dynamics…

In his debut match as captain, Suryakumar Yadav opted to bowl after winning the toss as Australia, despite resting several World Cup winners, managed to reach a formidable score of 208/3, propelled by Josh Inglis’ explosive 110 off 50 balls. While Steve Smith made a strong start, his partnership with Matthew Short was disrupted by Ravi Bishnoi. However, Inglis took charge, forming a formidable second-wicket partnership with Smith and contributing to a total of 130 runs off 66 balls. Smith departed on 52 off 41, but Inglis continued his onslaught, achieving a century in just 47 balls, matching Aaron Finch’s…

Nikki Haley, a prominent Indian American Republican, is emerging as a key figure challenging former President Donald Trump, garnering substantial support from skeptical Republicans. Serving as the first Indian American in a presidential cabinet under Trump as the US ambassador to the UN, Haley’s momentum is evident as she attracts donors and organizers across early voting states. Notably, donors with ties to critical Trump figures, such as hedge fund billionaire Paul Singer, are endorsing Haley’s candidacy. This surge in support has positioned Haley ahead of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in crucial states. In a strategic move, Haley is navigating a…

India’s mobile broadband (MBB) users have surged to 839 million, marking a significant rise from 7.2% in the previous year, with accelerated additions in August driven by the affordability of Reliance Jio’s 4G phones. The challenge remains in convincing feature phone users to switch to pricier plans, but industry leaders anticipate continued growth in 4G subscriptions during the festive season and the fiscal year. Telecom data reveals a 16% decrease in non-MBB (2G) users to 309 million in the 12 months through August. The 12% drop in 4G smartphone pricing is expected to drive growth through 2G conversions. The telecom…