Author: Nupur Rohila

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that the United States has dramatically changed how it positions itself on the global stage, marking a major shift in Washington’s foreign policy playbook. Receiving an Honorary Doctorate from IIM-Calcutta on November 29, he noted that the US is now approaching countries individually rather than relying on the multilateral structures it once championed. This move, he said, represents “entirely new terms of engagement” that are prompting nations worldwide to reassess how they protect their strategic interests. Jaishankar explained that this altered diplomatic environment is increasingly shaped by politics overshadowing economics. According to him, the…

Arts India US has announced the 2026 cohort of Lotus Fellows, a premier initiative supporting Indian American artists in classical performing arts across the United States. Designed as a year-long program, it provides mentorship, professional development workshops, and performance opportunities aimed at increasing the visibility and impact of Indian classical arts within the US cultural landscape. This year’s fellows were recognized for their exceptional creativity and commitment to connecting traditional art forms with contemporary audiences. The 2026 Lotus Fellows include Antara Bhattacharya (sitar), Ariaki Dandawate (Kathak), Harini Nilakantha (Bharatanatyam), Karthik Iyer (Carnatic violin), Karun Salvady (mridangam), Neha Venkatesh (Bharatanatyam), Shalini…

Private equity and venture capital funding held steady through October 2025, posting a strong month despite slower deal activity. Total PE-VC investments climbed to about $5.3 million across 102 transactions, marking a 9% year-on-year increase even as the overall number of deals moderated. Pure investment inflows reached their highest level in more than a year at nearly $5 million, supported by revived interest in public-market opportunities and a renewed push toward early-stage investing. One of the most significant trends during the month was a dramatic surge in private investment in public equity, with PIPE commitments soaring almost tenfold to roughly…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his condolences to the people of Sri Lanka as the island nation grapples with the destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Offering solidarity during the crisis, Modi announced that India has dispatched essential relief supplies and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) support through Operation Sagar Bandhu. In a message shared on X, Modi expressed deep sorrow for the lives lost and urged strength for families affected by the cyclone’s fury. He emphasized that India, guided by the “Neighbourhood First” policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, stands firmly with Sri Lanka during this difficult moment. Modi…

Priyanka Chopra has highlighted the extraordinary accomplishments of India’s women athletes, celebrating their rising impact across global sporting arenas. The actor shared a video montage that showcases notable achievements of women in sports, applauding their resilience, discipline and the inspiration they offer to young girls across the country. The video features defining moments from recent tournaments where Indian women have excelled. It includes the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team’s victory in the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup, a dominant campaign that saw the team remain unbeaten throughout the series. It also highlights the Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team’s triumph at…

Uthara Unnikrishnan has earned the distinction of Employee of the Quarter at the University of Arkansas Global Campus, marking a significant milestone in her tenure with the institution. The recognition was announced during an October staff meeting, where Cheryl Murphy, vice provost for distance education and head of the Global Campus, highlighted Unnikrishnan’s outstanding contributions and dedication to the university’s mission. Expressing her appreciation, Unnikrishnan shared that the honor came as a surprise and has encouraged her to continue expanding her skills and strengthening her commitment to professional growth. As a data and innovation resource specialist within the Professional and…

As Aishwarya Rai Bachchan marks her 52nd birthday on November 1, she continues to stand as an enduring emblem of beauty and poise. Her appeal extends far beyond her celebrated film career — it is also rooted in her grounded lifestyle, disciplined self-care, and humble demeanor. From winning the Miss World title in 1994 to becoming a global Bollywood icon, Aishwarya has consistently represented elegance, confidence, and sincerity. Simplicity at the Core Even with decades spent in the spotlight, Aishwarya’s approach to beauty remains remarkably uncomplicated. She often credits basic habits — staying well-hydrated and maintaining good hygiene — as…

India’s Ambassador to the United States intensified diplomatic engagement in Washington by holding high-level discussions with prominent Republican lawmakers to strengthen cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. The talks reflected growing momentum in advancing strategic collaboration between the world’s two largest democracies. The ambassador met Representative Jay Obernolte, a key figure overseeing science and technology initiatives, highlighting opportunities for expanded cooperation in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, research innovation, and advanced technology development. The dialogue underscored a shared commitment to fostering innovation-driven partnerships vital to future economic growth. These engagements followed a series of interactions with influential members of…

India and Israel have decided to revive long-pending conversations on crafting a free trade agreement, a move that officials say could reshape the economic landscape between the two nations. The announcement came on Thursday, signaling the first real progress toward a deal that has been under discussion for years. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal revealed on X that he and Israel’s Minister of Economy and Industry, Nir Barkat, formally signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) that will steer the next phase of negotiations. According to Goyal, this agreement lays the foundation for building a free trade pact that is balanced,…

A recent report released on November 19 emphasizes that India remains the only nation in South Asia to enjoy unwavering support from the US Congress, even as global institutions face unprecedented pressure from geopolitical divisions. According to the analysis, this consistent backing significantly boosts New Delhi’s ability to influence decision-making at international platforms such as the United Nations and the G20. It also positions India to jointly guide conversations on emerging global priorities, from digital governance to clean energy transitions and climate resilience. The report highlighted that when US Representatives Ami Bera and Joe Wilson introduced a bipartisan resolution on…