Author: Malavika Subramanyan

Over the past decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Indian banking system has undergone significant transformations, moving from the era of ‘phone banking’ to implementing prudential norms, mega mergers, recapitalization, and fostering a banking culture through initiatives like Jan Dhan accounts, digital banking/payment systems, and Mudra loans. According to a research report by the State Bank of India (SBI), the banking system’s total asset/liabilities growth during FY14-23 is 1.3 times higher than the growth in the last 60 years. Despite obstacles like demonetization, non-banking financial company setbacks, shifts in monetary policy, and the pandemic, the Indian banking system…

In anticipation of the forthcoming inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America and local Hindu temples in the Washington, DC area orchestrated a mini car and bike rally at the Shri Bhakta Anjaneya Temple in Maryland. The street where the riders convened was christened “Ayodhya Way” in homage to the inaugural ceremony, attracting a diverse gathering of Hindu Americans across age groups. Mahendra Sapa, president of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America DC chapter, announced a larger celebration on January 20, 2024, in the Washington, DC area, featuring around 1000 American Hindu families. The…

Indian-American Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has been leading the 2024 campaign with a remarkable 42 stops this week, the highest among candidates. Despite the logistical challenges, Ramaswamy remains motivated by the energetic crowds in Iowa, emphasizing that he is campaigning caffeine-free. The 38-year-old entrepreneur appreciates the earnestness of people attending his events, building a community and movement that transcends traditional campaign methods. Ramaswamy values grassroots engagement, expressing a preference for connecting with caucusgoers in Pizza Ranches across the state rather than participating in cloistered mega-donor retreats. He attributes his success to a strong work ethic, emphasizing that luck is…

Indian American lawmakers have expressed deep concern over the allegations involving two Indian nationals in a foiled assassination plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Nikhil Gupta and an Indian government officer identified as “CC-1” face DOJ charges for planning to kill Khalistani supporter Pannun on U.S. soil. Representatives Pramila Jayapal, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, and Shri Thanedar issued a joint statement, urging a thorough Indian government investigation and accountability for those involved. They emphasized the potential damage to US-India ties if not addressed appropriately. The lawmakers received a classified briefing on the DOJ’s indictment, highlighting the gravity of the…

California’s Santa Clara Family Health Plan (SCFHP) has appointed Indian American Ria Paul as its Chief Medical Officer (CMO) effective December 18, 2023. In this role, Paul will foster relationships with healthcare providers, enhance clinical systems, and lead SCFHP’s population health efforts for health equity. She succeeds Laurie Nakahira, who transitions to the role of Medical Director. With over 25 years of commitment to equitable healthcare, Paul is enthusiastic about joining a team emphasizing cultural and equitable care. Christine M Tomcala, the non-profit’s CEO, expresses confidence in Dr. Paul’s extensive healthcare leadership experience, expecting her contribution to SCFHP’s inclusive mission.…

The recent ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup left a substantial imprint on India’s economy, as revealed by the “ICC Cricket World Cup: A boost to India’s economy” report from the Mastercard Economics Institute. The tournament notably elevated spending by foreign tourists, particularly in sectors like hospitality and dining. Despite Australia clinching victory in the finals, the Indian economy emerged as a substantial beneficiary. Key matches, including India vs Pakistan, India vs England, and the final clash against Australia, witnessed a remarkable surge in spending by foreign tourists. Host cities’ quick-service restaurants experienced significant cross-border spending, with some recording over 300%…

Securonix, a leading cybersecurity firm, has appointed two Indian Americans to key roles: Venkat Kotla as Chief Technology Officer and Biju Muduli as Chief Marketing Officer. Kotla, a former Google executive, will lead engineering and technology partnerships, leveraging his experience at Atlassian and Google. Muduli, former Chief Marketing Officer at Onapsis, will drive marketing initiatives to strengthen Securonix’s position in the cybersecurity industry. Nayaki Nayyar, Securonix CEO, expresses excitement about their valuable contributions, emphasizing the company’s commitment to innovation and growth. Venkat Kotla, with over 25 years of experience, brings expertise in engineering innovation from his roles at Atlassian and…

In the ongoing fiscal year 2022-23, India’s services exports have achieved a commendable milestone, amounting to US$ 192 billion as of December 13, 2023. This accomplishment positions the sector well on track to meet its ambitious target of US$ 400 billion by the conclusion of the financial year 2023-24, according to information provided by the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC). Noteworthy contributors to this growth include sectors such as telecom, computers, information, transport, and travel. The SEPC is actively formulating strategic initiatives to propel further expansion within the services sector. The latest report reveals that the services sector’s performance stands…

The Arena Group (TAG), the parent company of U.S. sports publication Sports Illustrated (SI), has appointed Manoj Bhargava as the interim CEO following the termination of CEO Sam Levinsohn. Levinsohn was dismissed amid an AI scandal revealed in an investigative report that disclosed the use of AI to generate content in SI articles, including author identities. In a statement, TAG’s board of directors revealed the termination of Levinsohn’s employment, effective immediately, stating their commitment to improving the company’s operational efficiency and revenue. Bhargava, founder of 5-hour ENERGY and owner of Bridge Media Networks, has been named the interim Chief Executive…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a call to action, urging both institutions and individuals to collaborate in propelling India into a developed nation by 2047. The launch of the Viksit Bharat @2047 initiative marked the commencement of this transformative endeavor, with Modi highlighting the current opportune moment for a significant leap in India’s trajectory. Reflecting on the historical significance, he urged all entities to contribute to this vision, drawing inspiration from the era of the freedom struggle. Modi emphasized the need for a collective effort, echoing the spirit of the freedom movement that gave rise to institutions like Visva…