Author: Malavika Subramanyan

Aligned with India’s new National Education Policy, the United States has initiated an educational program enabling Indian students to pursue one-year specialized master’s degrees in STEM fields at American universities. The program, slated for the fall semester of 2024, caters to science, technology, engineering, and math disciplines. Upon program completion, students can remain in the US for up to three years to acquire industry experience and repay student loans, in accordance with relevant visa regulations. Collaboration discussions involve 20 American and 15 Indian universities, facilitated by the US State Department. The initiative’s architect, Akhilesh Lakhtakia, a Jefferson Science Fellow at…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude for the unwavering and non-partisan backing provided by the US Congress to foster India-US relations. This acknowledgment came about during a meeting with a contingent of American lawmakers, led by Congressman Ro Khanna and Congressman Michael Waltz. These two Congressmen co-chair the bipartisan Congressional Caucus. During their official visit to India, the delegation had the privilege of meeting with Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi. Notable figures such as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Ajit Doval (India’s National Security Advisor), and US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti were also in attendance at this…

During Vishwakarma Jayanti, MSME Minister Mr. Narayan Rane announced the upcoming Vishwakarma Yojana by the central government. This scheme aims to provide support to artisans and craftsmen involved in traditional industries falling under the MSME sector. Scheduled for launch on September 17, Vishwakarma Jayanti this year, the initiative is intended to empower these traditional industries. Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day speech, highlighted the Vishwakarma Yojana’s launch to benefit individuals skilled in traditional crafts, particularly from the OBC community. The scheme, backed by an allocation of around Rs. 13,000-15,000 crore (US$ 1.56-1.80 billion), will aid weavers, goldsmiths,…

Manu Raju, CNN’s Chief Congressional Correspondent, has been selected as the new host of the Sunday morning show “Inside Politics,” according to the network’s announcement. The Indian American journalist is taking over from Abby Phillips, who has been promoted to the 10 p.m. primetime slot. Raju’s responsibilities will extend to covering Capitol Hill while also heading the Sunday show. CNN emphasized that Raju’s extensive experience reporting from Washington will ensure the delivery of accurate breaking news and analysis on significant political stories, thanks to the contributions of adept reporters. CNN’s declaration of these changes highlights their commitment to showcasing a…

Indian-American economist Raj Chetty, renowned for using extensive data to dispel American Dream myths and highlight hurdles, has been honored with Harvard University’s esteemed George Ledlie Prize. Chetty, a Harvard Economics professor and head of Opportunity Insights, a team of economists studying inequality, advised President Joe Biden on economic matters as well. Harvard’s Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Alan M. Garber, praised Chetty’s groundbreaking economic mobility research and his commitment to sharing findings with policymakers, fostering a more accessible American Dream. Awarded biennially, the prize acknowledges exceptional contributions to science or humanity’s benefit. Chetty’s personal background, arriving in the US…

On India’s 77th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the nation’s rapid growth in exports and its rising stature in the global community. He mentioned that international rating agencies are praising India, and its capabilities are being acknowledged in the post-Corona world order. During a period of disrupted global supply chains, India showcased the importance of focusing on human needs to find solutions. Modi emphasized that India’s economy is now an essential component of the global supply chain, adding stability and becoming the voice of the global South. The Prime Minister pointed out that Indian youth have propelled the…

According to a report by SBI Research, the per capita income of Indians through income tax filing is projected to grow from US$ 2,398.79 (approximately Rs. 2 lakh) in FY23 to US$ 17,870.96 (about Rs. 14.9 lakh) in FY47, coinciding with India’s 100th year of independence. SBI’s Group Chief Economic Adviser, Ms. Soumya Kanti Ghosh, revealed that the mean income in AY14 was US$ 5,277.33 (Rs. 4.4 lakh). By FY23, it surged to US$ 15,592.11 (Rs. 13 lakh) due to a higher number of tax filers. Ms. Ghosh noted the expansion of the middle class, characterized by forward-thinking and hope.…

On India’s 77th Independence Day, the creators of “Fighter,” featuring Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan, revealed the film’s release date through a poster video. The movie has generated excitement on social media and includes Anil Kapoor in a significant role. The initial glimpse showcases Deepika Padukone, Anil Kapoor, and Hrithik Roshan as Indian Air Force pilots, piquing fans’ curiosity. Along with the reveal, the filmmakers confirmed that this action-drama will premiere on January 25, 2024, coinciding with the 75th Republic Day. Deepika Padukone shared the video with the caption, “A salute to our glorious nation. Happy Independence Day! #Fighter in…

Yami Gautam is reveling in the success of her latest release, OMG 2. Following a fan’s accolades for her performance in the film and the observation that she’s ‘under-utilized’ within the industry, Yami responded with honesty. She shared her genuine insights regarding the industry’s heavy reliance on ‘marketing,’ while emphasizing her prioritization of script depth. In the film, Yami portrays a lawyer. On X, a fan lauded Yami’s performance in OMG 2, expressing, “@yamigautam manages to SURPRISE us with her performance! #OMG2 is no exception. She owns each frame she’s in! Even her silence speaks a lot. I hate the…

The sports drama film “Ghoomer,” featuring actors Abhishek Bachchan and Saiyami Kher, garnered a standing ovation during its premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2023’s opening night. “Ghoomer” is poised to be a cinematic marvel, interweaving emotion, drama, and pure entertainment. It presents an inspiring tale of human triumph against all odds. As the movie was unveiled for the very first time, the audience was captivated by the enchanting scenes unfolding on screen, leading to a resounding applause and a standing ovation. During the opening night, Abhishek expressed his gratitude for the platform, stating, “I’m grateful for…