Author: Senjuti Bhattacharya

Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is proposing tighter rules for new data centers, arguing that these facilities should deliver measurable economic and environmental benefits to the communities where they operate. Ramaswamy has stopped short of supporting a complete ban on data center construction. Instead, his proposal would temporarily halt approvals for new facilities until state lawmakers establish a framework outlining specific requirements for developers and operators. The issue has become a major topic in Ohio’s gubernatorial race. All three leading candidates — Republican, Democrat and Libertarian — have proposed some form of restriction or pause on new data centers,…

India is maintaining strong momentum in international trade, with exports rising by about 15% during the first four months of fiscal year 2027. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the country is now aiming to reach $1 trillion in total exports during the year, reflecting the government’s broader push to strengthen India’s position in global markets. Speaking at the Bharatiya Vyapar Mahotsav 2026, Goyal emphasized the importance of expanding the scale and competitiveness of Indian businesses. The latest export performance comes despite a challenging global environment marked by economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. India achieved record exports of…

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met a parliamentary delegation from Liberia in New Delhi on Tuesday, emphasizing India’s commitment to expanding cooperation with countries across the Global South. The Liberian lawmakers are in India as part of a peer-learning program focused on sharing development experiences and policy practices. The delegation includes members of Liberia’s Senate and House of Representatives, along with representatives from the country’s Women’s Legislative Caucus. It is being led by Ellen-Attoh Wreh, with officials from UN Women also participating in the visit. During the meeting, Jaishankar discussed several Indian government programs that have been developed to improve…

New York and New Jersey have officially recognized August 15, 2026, as “India Independence Day,” highlighting India’s independence journey and the significant role played by Indian Americans in the social, economic and cultural life of the two states. New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a statewide proclamation designating August 15 as India Independence Day. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced a similar recognition for her state, according to the Consulate General of India in New York. The proclamations come ahead of India’s 80th Independence Day and reflect the longstanding connections between the United States and India. They also recognize shared…

India and Saudi Arabia are expected to take their longstanding strategic partnership to a higher level in the coming years, according to Ambassador-designate Vipul, who is preparing to take charge of India’s diplomatic mission in Riyadh. Speaking ahead of his new assignment, Vipul described the relationship between the two countries as historic, distinctive and strategically important. He said the interests of New Delhi and Riyadh increasingly align across several areas, creating opportunities for closer cooperation as both countries navigate a changing regional environment. Vipul said he was honored by the Indian government’s decision to appoint him to the Saudi Arabia…

Michigan Technological University has appointed Manish Srivastava as associate dean of its College of Business, adding an experienced academic leader to the college’s senior administration. Srivastava assumed the position on July 1 and will work closely with Dean Sri Beldona on initiatives aimed at advancing the college’s academic programs and long-term development. A professor of strategic management and innovation, Srivastava also holds the David and Marilyn Bernard Endowed Professorship in Business. His nearly two decades at Michigan Tech have included teaching, research and leadership responsibilities, giving him extensive familiarity with the university and its College of Business. As associate dean,…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic engagement in Washington received favorable attention from sections of Indian social media, according to a recently released US Embassy assessment. The document highlighted positive reactions to his discussions with President Donald Trump, defense cooperation efforts and meetings with prominent figures during his February 2025 visit. The internal assessment, dated February 18, 2025, examined conversations on X surrounding Modi’s trip to the United States. The US State Department released the document in July under the Freedom of Information Act. It is classified as “unclassified,” while the identities of officials involved in preparing the analysis have been…

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor held discussions with industry leaders and government representatives to further strengthen cooperation between India and the United States across key sectors, including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, technology, space exploration, and environmental innovation. During his meetings, Gor highlighted the importance of expanding strategic partnerships between the two nations. He met executives from Rolls-Royce to discuss the company’s efforts in supporting India-US collaboration in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and technological innovation. Sharing details of the interaction, Gor said the partnership between both countries is helping build a more secure and prosperous future through cooperation in areas such as…

Indian American executive Parul Butala has been promoted to president of AMERCO Real Estate Co. (AREC), the real estate division of U-Haul Holding Co. The appointment was announced following the company’s decision on July 17, marking a significant career milestone for Butala after more than three decades with the organization. Butala joined the U-Haul team in 1994 and built her career through various roles within the company’s real estate and development operations. She began as a staff architect with the AREC construction group, where she gained extensive experience in property development and planning. She briefly worked with U-Haul’s Risk Management…

Indian American comedian and screenwriter Zarna Garg has reached a major milestone in her career after becoming the face of a national advertising campaign in the United States. The achievement left the popular comedian emotional as she reflected on her long journey filled with challenges, setbacks, and determination. Known for her humorous take on family life, motherhood, and the experience of balancing two cultures, Garg has built a strong following among audiences in the US and the Indian diaspora. Her success story has become an inspiration for many immigrants and women who continue pursuing their dreams despite obstacles. In an…