Author: Shradhanjali Mukherjee

In a bid to revolutionize satellite technology, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of GSAT-20, a communication satellite weighing 4.7 tons. While ISRO works on developing a rocket capable of lifting over four tons, it has joined forces with SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, to utilize the Falcon-9 rocket for GSAT-20, scheduled for launch in the second quarter of 2024. The primary objective of GSAT-20 is to provide high throughput satellite (HTS) services in the Ka-Ka band at an affordable rate. These services target rural and underserved areas, emphasizing broadband connectivity and In-flight and…

Ramanan Raghavendran has recently assumed the position of chair of the University of Pennsylvania’s board of trustees, succeeding Scott L. Bok, who held the role from July 2021 until stepping down in December 2023. As an alum of Penn, Raghavendran is the managing partner and co-founder of Amasia, a global venture capital firm with a focus on climate and sustainability. Penn’s interim president, J. Larry Jameson, commended the appointment, emphasizing Raghavendran’s three Penn degrees, extensive university engagement, and leadership roles. Julie Beren Platt, who served as interim chair, praised Raghavendran’s passion for Penn and his commitment to relationships, having worked…

Jasmin Bhandari, principal at Scali Rasmussen, has been nominated for the ‘Inspirational Women Awards’ by the Los Angeles Times, celebrating her outstanding leadership in employment law. The law firm’s managing shareholder, Christian Scali, commended Bhandari’s dedication, noting that her selection reflects her commitment and proficiency in the field. Scali emphasized that Bhandari’s recognition not only brings pride to the law firm but also validates the exceptional assistance she provides to clients. Specializing in labor and employment law, Bhandari offers strategic advice on compliance with intricate employment laws and handles various disputes, including wage and hour class actions and PAGA lawsuits.…

Ohio’s Republican State Senator Niraj Antani, now running for the state’s open second district, disclosed raising an impressive $612,348 in just 38 days for his Congressional campaign. The fundraising spanned the 4th quarter, beginning with his announcement on November 14 and concluding on December 31. Notably, this substantial amount was achieved without tapping into general election funds or resorting to self-funding. Expressing gratitude to his supporters, Antani, representing Ohio’s sixth senate district, affirmed his commitment to championing the American Dream in Congress. The announcement follows the retirement of Congressman Brad Wenstrup from Ohio’s 2nd Congressional District on November 8, 2023.…

On January 10, the CNN-hosted Republican Primary debate in Des Moines, Iowa, will feature only Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis, as Donald Trump maintains his tradition of abstaining from debates. Vivek Ramaswamy and Chris Christie did not qualify due to low polling numbers, with CNN’s criteria requiring a minimum of 10% in three separate national and/or Iowa polls. Expressing frustration on X, Ramaswamy criticized CNN for fact-checking conspiracy theories presented in a recent town-hall event. Despite his eligibility, he declared a boycott of the debate and accused CNN of rejecting polls accepted by the Republican National Committee for candidate qualification.…

The Indian government has launched the National Single Window System (NSWS) to streamline processes related to medical device import, clinical investigations, and testing. Designed by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and initiated by the Centre, NSWS serves as a comprehensive single-window platform, simplifying approval procedures and improving the ease of doing business, according to Mr. Rajeev Raghuvanshi, the drugs controller general of India. This system, developed by TCS, replaces existing platforms like SUGAM and cdscomdonline, facilitating applications for certificates of registration and licenses for various medical device-related activities. The NSWS portal covers aspects such as medical device manufacturing or importation, clinical…

Indian-American physician Dr. Dhaval Shah has initiated the Dr. Dhaval Shah Scholarships for Future Doctors, offering a $1000 scholarship for undergraduate students and high school seniors aspiring to pursue a medical degree. The scholarship’s criteria aim to identify candidates embodying the qualities and values championed by Dr. Shah, focusing on compassion, dedication, and innovation in medicine. Applicants must submit a 500-1000 word essay outlining their medical career goals and how they align with Dr. Shah’s values. The scholarship welcomes students with a strong interest in healthcare and medicine, irrespective of specialty. Emphasizing relevant extracurricular activities, research experience, and academic achievements…

In Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored India’s advancement through a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity during a public gathering. Initiating the airport, Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station, and revealing projects valued over $188 million, he highlighted Ayodhya’s pivotal role in propelling India’s development. The upcoming consecration ceremony for the grand Ram temple on January 22 has garnered global anticipation. Modi stressed the significance of preserving heritage for national progress, noting the transformation from a tent for Ram Lala to providing sturdy homes for millions, symbolizing inclusive development. He celebrated Ayodhya’s contribution to revitalizing India’s cultural and technological landscapes.…

A distinguished British Sikh medical professional, Dr. Amritpal Singh Hungin, boasting over three decades of general practice (GP) expertise, has been knighted in the New Year’s honours list. This annual list, released by the government’s Cabinet Office under the name of King Charles III, recognizes exceptional accomplishments and selfless dedication nationwide. Dr. Hungin, also known as Professor Pali Hungin, serves as the Emeritus Professor of General Practice at Newcastle University and has been honored for his significant contributions to medicine. His career highlights include serving as the founding dean of medicine at Durham University and presiding over the British Medical…

In a recent interview, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared insights into his governance approach, emphasizing the importance of clear endpoints while maintaining discretion about the final destination or blueprint at the project’s outset. This distinctive strategy, he explained, involves initiating actions with a specific goal in mind, akin to drawing a line in stone, especially in challenging sectors like cleanliness and sanitation. When asked about his satisfaction with his government’s 2023 performance, PM Modi cautioned against assessing his journey based on a single year, highlighting his inclination to work on a large canvas where the final picture gradually unfolds. He…