Montana is exploring expanded cooperation with India in advanced technology, aerospace, agriculture and scientific research, as the US state looks to strengthen commercial and academic ties between the two countries.

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte announced the areas of interest during his visit to India with a delegation of 36 representatives from higher education and advanced technology sectors. According to an IANS report, the delegation is holding discussions with Indian businesses and educational institutions to identify opportunities for joint research, product development and economic growth.

Quantum technology and photonics are among the leading areas under consideration. Gianforte said institutions and businesses in both Montana and India are pursuing work in these fields, creating opportunities for universities to collaborate on research and for private companies to develop new technologies. He noted that Montana institutions invest hundreds of millions of dollars in research relevant to these sectors.

Aerospace is another potential area for closer cooperation. Gianforte pointed to the connection between India’s use of Boeing aircraft and Montana’s role in manufacturing aircraft components. He said this existing industrial link could create opportunities for businesses in both countries to expand their partnerships.

The delegation is also examining opportunities in precision agriculture, where technology can help farmers improve productivity. Montana’s School of Agriculture is represented on the visit, reflecting the importance of agricultural research and innovation in the proposed collaboration. Other areas being explored include defense technology and bioscience.

Alongside technology and research, Gianforte emphasized the importance of stable trade relations between India and the United States. He said US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor had indicated that the two countries were approaching a bilateral trade agreement.

According to Gianforte, a trade deal could provide businesses with greater predictability and support longer-term commercial relationships. He particularly highlighted trade in pulse crops, noting that fluctuations in India’s purchasing patterns have affected agricultural trade. He called for reciprocal and fair trade arrangements that give businesses in both countries greater confidence.

The discussions reflect Montana’s interest in building deeper economic connections with India while identifying shared priorities in research, manufacturing, agriculture and emerging technologies. If developed further, these partnerships could create opportunities for universities, businesses and farmers in both countries.

The post Montana Seeks Stronger Technology Ties With India first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

India’s development partnership with Africa is being shaped around the needs and priorities identified by its partner countries, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said during his visit to Côte d’Ivoire.

Speaking to alumni of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program in Abidjan, Jaishankar said development cooperation remains a central element of India’s engagement with African nations. He referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s articulation of the Kampala principles, which have helped define India’s approach to working with countries across the continent.

Jaishankar described ITEC as an important mechanism through which India shares expertise and experience while also learning from its international partners. The program provides opportunities to exchange knowledge in areas including governance, security, technology and development.

Launched in 1964, ITEC is now in its 62nd year and has expanded into a major platform for India’s international capacity-building efforts. The program currently works with more than 160 partner countries and provides nearly 10,000 fully funded training opportunities each year.

The scope of ITEC has also expanded considerably. Its training areas include information and communications technology, digital governance, public administration, banking, finance, agriculture, energy and skill development. The program also covers defense, security and counterterrorism, allowing partner countries to access training across a broad range of sectors.

Jaishankar highlighted Côte d’Ivoire as an important partner for India in West Africa. Over the past 12 years, the country has used around 800 ITEC training opportunities, reflecting the depth of cooperation between the two nations.

India has also committed additional training opportunities for Côte d’Ivoire, including 123 slots in defense-related areas and 100 for civilian programs. Jaishankar emphasized that such exchanges are valuable not only for developing professional skills but also for creating stronger personal and institutional relationships between the two countries.

He said the relationships built through training programs create lasting connections through shared experiences, interactions and professional networks. According to the minister, these human connections form an important foundation for long-term bilateral cooperation.

Jaishankar also reiterated India’s support for Côte d’Ivoire’s economic development, governance efforts and security priorities. He said India remains committed to helping the country strengthen its human capital and develop the skills required for a changing economy.

The ITEC program therefore represents more than technical training, serving as a broader platform for India to share knowledge, strengthen institutional capabilities and deepen partnerships with countries across Africa and beyond.

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The United States and India have highlighted the growing momentum in their Major Defence Partnership following a high-level gathering of senior military leaders in New Delhi. The meeting brought together key defence officials from both countries at Roosevelt House, reflecting closer strategic and military engagement.

The gathering included Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Pacific Command, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth and other senior Indian defence officials.

Admiral Paparo is visiting India as part of a six-day official engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral defence ties. During his visit, he also held discussions with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on ways to deepen India-US defence and strategic cooperation.

The discussions covered regional and global developments, with both sides exchanging views on security issues and opportunities to expand strategic coordination.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor also highlighted the importance of Admiral Paparo’s visit and his engagement with senior Indian defence leadership. The meetings underline the growing strategic importance attached by both countries to closer defence cooperation and coordination in the wider Indo-Pacific region.

The latest engagement comes as India and the United States continue to expand their defence partnership through high-level military interactions and strategic cooperation.

The post US, India Strengthen Defence Partnership in New Delhi first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

India is emerging as one of the leading developing economies in artificial intelligence, ranking among the top 10 emerging-market performers for AI readiness, according to a new World Bank report. The assessment highlights the country’s large pool of technical talent, globally connected information technology industry and extensive digital public infrastructure as key strengths supporting its AI ecosystem.

The report, titled India and Artificial Intelligence: Seizing the Development Opportunity, also points to a sharp rise in private-sector investment. AI-related private investment in India climbed to approximately $4.1 billion in 2025, more than three times the roughly $1.2 billion recorded in 2024. The increase signals growing interest from investors in India’s expanding artificial intelligence capabilities and technology market.

India’s technology workforce is also continuing to expand through Global Capability Centres, which have become an important part of the country’s services economy. The number of professionals employed by these centers rose to 2.36 million in 2025, compared with 1.9 million the previous year. The growth reflects increasing demand for specialized skills and technology-driven services.

The World Bank said India has an opportunity to use AI beyond commercial applications and apply the technology to broader development goals. Potential areas include improving productivity, strengthening public services and addressing challenges across different sectors of the economy. At the same time, the report cautioned that the long-term effects of AI on economic activity and employment remain difficult to predict.

To ensure that AI benefits reach a wider population, the World Bank recommended policies focused on improving digital and AI infrastructure, strengthening the business environment, expanding access to technology and developing workforce capabilities.

The institution is also supporting targeted AI solutions through its AgriConnect initiative. These “small AI” applications are designed around specific local needs and can be adapted for communities operating with limited resources. Such tools could help extend the advantages of AI while assisting workers and communities as technology changes the nature of work.

For South Asia more broadly, the World Bank expects AI adoption to generate significant benefits when technologies are adapted to local conditions rather than simply imported. The accompanying South Asia Economic Update projects regional economic growth of 6.9% in 2026, keeping South Asia on track to remain the fastest-growing region globally.

With its combination of digital infrastructure, skilled professionals and an internationally integrated IT sector, India is positioned to expand the use of AI across business, public services and development initiatives. The World Bank’s assessment underscores both the opportunities and policy challenges that will shape the country’s AI-driven growth.

The post India Ranks Among Top 10 Emerging AI Markets first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has appointed attorney Chhaya Malik to serve as a judge on the Santa Clara County Superior Court, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Socrates P. Manoukian. Newsom announced the appointment on September 18, according to the Governor’s Office and the Santa Clara County Superior Court.

Malik brings more than two decades of experience spanning law, mediation, public policy and government service to the Santa Clara County bench. Since 2022, she has served as deputy director of dispute resolution at the California Civil Rights Department, where her work has focused on dispute-resolution matters.

Before joining the California Civil Rights Department, Malik worked as a mediator at Devi Legal Mediation Services from 2020 to 2022. She also served as special counsel at Ehrlich & Craig for a decade, from 2012 through 2022.

Her earlier professional experience includes federal public service. Malik worked as a policy liaison at the U.S. Department of State from 2011 to 2012 and previously served as a staff attorney at the Advancement Project from 2009 to 2011.

She began her legal career at Hogan Lovells, where she worked as an associate from 2005 to 2009. Malik earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law.

Santa Clara County Superior Court Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede welcomed Malik’s appointment, pointing to her background in dispute resolution, civil rights, public policy and private legal practice. Emede said Malik’s experience would bring an additional perspective to the court as it serves residents of Santa Clara County.

Malik is one of two Superior Court judges appointed by Newsom in the September 18 announcement. The Governor’s Office said her appointment carries an annual compensation of $244,727.

The appointment adds another chapter to Malik’s career across government, law and dispute resolution. Her professional background includes work at state and federal agencies, private law firms and civil rights organizations before her move to the Santa Clara County Superior Court bench.

The post Chhaya Malik Appointed Santa Clara County Judge first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

One of the biggest mistakes is waiting too long to begin shopping. Bridal gowns, customized outfits, and tailored suits can require months for ordering, fittings, and alterations. Starting early gives couples more time to explore different styles, compare options, and make adjustments without the pressure of an approaching wedding date.

It is also important to consider the wedding theme and venue when choosing an outfit. A heavily embellished gown may not be practical for a relaxed beach ceremony, while an extremely casual outfit may feel unsuitable for a formal ballroom celebration. The venue, season, dress code, and overall atmosphere should all be considered when selecting wedding attire.

Following fashion trends too closely can also result in disappointment. While modern styles can add a fresh touch, choosing an outfit simply because it is currently popular may not reflect personal taste. Wedding photographs are often treasured for years, so selecting clothing that combines personal style with timeless elements can create a more meaningful and lasting look.

Comfort should never be overlooked. Weddings often involve hours of standing, walking, dancing, and interacting with guests. When trying on outfits, couples should consider ease of movement, fabric weight, breathability, footwear, and the fit around areas such as the shoulders and waist. An outfit that looks beautiful but feels uncomfortable can affect confidence and enjoyment throughout the celebration.

Another common issue is bringing too many opinions into the shopping process. Family and friends can provide helpful feedback, but a large group may create conflicting suggestions and make decision-making difficult. Bringing a few trusted people can make appointments more focused while allowing the couple’s own preferences to remain central.

Alteration costs should also be included in the wedding attire budget. The original purchase price may not cover adjustments needed to achieve the right fit. Hem changes, sleeve modifications, waist alterations, bustle additions, and other customizations can add to the final cost. Planning for these expenses in advance helps prevent unexpected financial pressure.

Accessories should not be left until the final days before the wedding. Items such as veils, jewelry, shoes, ties, pocket squares, and hair accessories can significantly influence the overall appearance. Selecting them early makes it easier to create a coordinated look and ensures that everything works well together.

Practical needs should also influence the decision. Weather, travel, venue conditions, and cultural traditions can all affect what is suitable. Heavy fabrics may be uncomfortable during a summer celebration, while outdoor weddings may call for more practical footwear. Considering these details ensures that the outfit remains suitable throughout the event.

A final fitting is another important step that should not be skipped. Changes in measurements, unfinished alterations, or small fitting issues can become noticeable on the wedding day. Scheduling a final fitting a few weeks before the celebration gives couples time to identify and correct any remaining problems.

Above all, wedding attire should feel authentic to the person wearing it. Choosing an outfit simply because others expect it or because it is fashionable may take away from the personal significance of the occasion. The ideal wedding attire should combine style, comfort, practicality, and individuality, helping couples feel confident and comfortable as they celebrate one of the most meaningful days of their lives.

The post Common Wedding Attire Mistakes to Avoid first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Parineeti Chopra is stepping into the world of investigative journalism with Reporting Live, a new thriller that explores the dangers surrounding illegal sand mining. The film is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on October 9 and brings together an ensemble cast featuring Deven Bhojani, Amol Palekar, Adil Hussain and Shekhar Suman.

The project marks another collaboration between Chopra and Netflix following her lead role in the streaming series Shaque: Trust No One. This time, however, she takes on a feature-film role as a young reporter whose determination to uncover the truth leads her into a shadowy and potentially dangerous investigation.

Directed by Dhruv Tripathi, Reporting Live is written by Tripathi and Mihir Jadhav. At the center of the story is the reporter’s pursuit of answers surrounding illegal sand mining, an issue that provides the backdrop for the film’s investigative narrative. The story appears to combine newsroom ambition with the risks that can emerge when journalists challenge powerful interests.

Tripathi said the film has been a long-term creative undertaking, describing the journey from writing the screenplay with Jadhav to bringing the finished project to audiences. He said the goal was to create a thriller with a grounded tone while keeping ordinary people central to the story.

The director also highlighted the contribution of the cast and crew, saying their work helped transform the long-developed project into a finished film. He expressed excitement about presenting Reporting Live to viewers around the world through Netflix.

Producer Partha Kiran Thakur emphasized the scale and intensity of the production. He said the team had a clear creative direction from the beginning and found it rewarding to see the concept take shape on screen.

Thakur also pointed to the film’s multi-generational ensemble as one of its notable elements. Bringing together performers with different backgrounds and careers allowed the filmmakers to create a cast with varied experiences. He particularly highlighted the pairing of Chopra and Bhojani, whose characters are described as unlike roles they have portrayed previously.

With journalism, corruption and illegal sand mining forming the core of its narrative, Reporting Live is positioned as a thriller centered on the pursuit of a difficult story. The film will be available to Netflix audiences beginning October 9.

The post Parineeti Chopra Leads Netflix Thriller Reporting Live first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a series of meetings with foreign leaders and ministers on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, focusing on bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation and major international developments. His engagements covered issues ranging from regional security and ongoing conflicts to economic, energy and food security.

Jaishankar met Panama President Jose Raul Mulino and discussed bilateral relations and areas of cooperation. He also held talks with Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam, reviewing the progress of India’s bilateral relationship with the island nation as well as cooperation through multilateral platforms.

West Asia and economic ties featured prominently in Jaishankar’s meeting with Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. The two officials exchanged views on developments across the region while also discussing India-Iraq economic and energy cooperation.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine was another major subject during Jaishankar’s discussions. In his meeting with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, the two sides exchanged views on security in Europe and the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict. They also discussed its broader implications and opportunities for India and Estonia to work together on shared challenges, alongside multilateral cooperation.

Jaishankar also met Ghanaian Foreign Minister Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa to discuss ways to deepen relations between India and Ghana. Their conversation included current regional and global developments.

Global food and energy challenges arising from conflicts were discussed during Jaishankar’s meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband. The conversation reflected the wider international concerns surrounding the effects of geopolitical instability on essential resources and global security.

The EAM also held discussions with Tajikistan’s Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin, focusing on developments in the region and India’s longstanding bilateral cooperation with the Central Asian country.

His UNGA engagements further included meetings with Barbados Foreign Minister Christopher Peter Sinckler, Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.

The series of meetings reflects the broad diplomatic agenda surrounding India’s participation in UNGA81. Alongside strengthening individual bilateral partnerships, the discussions addressed interconnected global issues involving security, conflicts, energy, food supplies and multilateral cooperation.

Through these engagements, India continued its diplomatic outreach with countries across different regions, including South Asia, Europe, West Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and Southeast Asia, while placing bilateral relationships within the broader context of evolving international challenges.

The post Jaishankar Holds Key Meetings on UNGA Sidelines first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

India’s engineering goods exports recorded strong growth in August, rising 24.86 per cent year-on-year to US$12.32 billion from US$9.87 billion in August 2025, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Engineering goods emerged as one of the major contributors to India’s merchandise export growth during the month. The increase came alongside higher exports across several other product categories, including electronic goods, petroleum products, chemicals and cotton yarn and textiles.

India’s overall merchandise exports increased to US$43.81 billion in August 2026 from US$34.74 billion a year earlier. This represented a substantial increase in merchandise shipments during the month, with engineering products contributing significantly to the expansion.

The government data showed that India’s total exports, including merchandise and services, were estimated at US$82.68 billion in August 2026, compared with US$65.93 billion in the corresponding month of the previous year. Total exports during April-August 2026-27 were estimated at US$399.27 billion, registering growth of 15.55 per cent year-on-year.

Other major export segments also recorded strong growth during August. Electronic goods exports increased 89.82 per cent to US$5.55 billion, while petroleum product exports rose 63.27 per cent to US$6.81 billion. Exports of organic and inorganic chemicals increased 16.38 per cent during the month.

The latest figures highlight the continued contribution of engineering products to India’s merchandise export basket. The sector includes a wide range of industrial and manufactured products and remains an important component of India’s international trade.

During April-August 2026-27, India’s merchandise exports stood at US$215.91 billion, compared with US$183.21 billion during the same period of the previous financial year, representing growth of 17.85 per cent.

The export performance comes amid continued efforts to expand India’s global trade footprint and strengthen shipments across manufacturing and industrial sectors.

The post India’s Engineering Goods Exports Rise 25% in August first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

India’s manufacturing sector has recorded significant expansion across electronics, defence, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, steel and other industries, strengthening the country’s ambitions to emerge as a major global manufacturing hub.

The Make in India initiative, launched in 2014, was aimed at promoting manufacturing, design and innovation across the country. The initiative now covers 27 sectors, including 15 manufacturing sectors and 12 service sectors.

Electronics manufacturing has emerged as one of the major areas of growth. Electronics production increased from Rs 1.9 lakh crore in 2014-15 to Rs 13.11 lakh crore in 2025-26. Mobile phone production also recorded a sharp rise, increasing from around Rs 18,000 crore to Rs 6.27 lakh crore during the same period. India is now the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer by volume.

Defence manufacturing has also expanded as domestic production gains greater importance. Indigenous defence production rose from Rs 46,429 crore in 2014-15 to a record Rs 1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26, reflecting the growing role of domestic manufacturing in the defence sector.

The automobile industry has witnessed continued growth as well. Vehicle production reached 31.03 million units in 2024-25, representing a 33 per cent increase compared with 2014-15.

India’s pharmaceutical industry has also strengthened its position globally. The sector ranks third worldwide by volume and 11th by value, with annual turnover reaching Rs 4,71,898 crore in 2024-25. Domestic medical device manufacturing has also expanded, rising from Rs 28,000 crore in 2019-20 to Rs 41,500 crore in 2024-25.

Steel production has recorded substantial growth, with crude steel output increasing from 81.7 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 170 million tonnes in 2025-26. The railway sector has similarly expanded its manufacturing capacity, producing thousands of coaches and locomotives over the past decade.

Manufacturing activity has also shown recent momentum. Manufacturing output under the Index of Industrial Production increased by 7 per cent during April-July 2026 compared with the corresponding period of the previous year.

The growth across multiple sectors highlights the expanding scale of India’s domestic manufacturing ecosystem. With increasing production capacity, investment and emphasis on domestic manufacturing, India continues to strengthen its position in global supply chains and industrial production.

The post Make in India Drives India’s Manufacturing Growth first appeared on Global Indian News Network.