Author: Shradhanjali Mukherjee

Akash Bobba, a 22-year-old engineer from New Jersey and a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, is one of six new hires for Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This group, composed of young engineers between the ages of 19 and 24, has raised questions about their qualifications, particularly their lack of experience in government affairs. The new recruits are tasked with updating and modernizing software and technology to improve the efficiency and productivity of government agencies. Despite their youth, Bobba and his colleagues are already working on significant projects. Bobba, for instance, is listed as an “expert”…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his response to Rahul Gandhi’s comments about fighting the Indian State, accused some individuals of speaking the language of urban naxals. While not directly naming the Congress leader, Modi emphasized that those declaring war on the Indian State lacked understanding of the Constitution and the nation’s unity. In a detailed, 90-minute reply to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, Modi highlighted his government’s achievements, such as the Ayushman Bharat healthcare scheme and the construction of 40 million homes for the poor and middle class. He contrasted these initiatives with the Aam Aadmi Party’s…

In a landmark decision, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has announced the formation of a five-member committee to draft a state-level Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The move, hailed by the state’s leadership as a step that upholds the “spirit of the Constitution,” aims to ensure equality and unity among all citizens of Gujarat, regardless of religious background. Gujarat’s Home Minister, Harsh Sanghavi, underscored the significance of the UCC in promoting harmony by providing equal rights to all citizens. He emphasized that the UCC aligns with the core principles of the Indian Constitution and seeks to unify diverse communities under a…

The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI)–Medical Student and Resident Forum (MSRF) successfully hosted its annual Medical Scholars Summit at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, from January 25-26, 2025. Dr. Satheesh Kathula, AAPI President, highlighted the event’s significance in bringing together medical students, residents, and high school scholars of Indian origin for an enriching two-day experience. The summit was meticulously organized by an executive board of young medical professionals, with MSRF President Priya Uppal leading the efforts alongside Priyanka Kolli (President-Elect), Sohi Mistry (Vice President), Priyal Shah (Treasurer), and Drishti Patel (Secretary). Another leadership team comprising Manan…

Following the resounding success of its 2024 season, IAA Houston (Indo-American Association Houston) is set to launch its 2025 season with an impressive lineup of globally acclaimed artists and a diverse range of performances. The upcoming season promises a vibrant journey through Indian arts and culture, combining accessibility, variety, and value for audiences. Designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of artistic tastes, the season includes poetic storytelling and soulful melodies from Jazim Sharma and Salim Arif, as well as the humor-filled insights of comedian Rajiv Satyal. Audiences can also experience the mesmerizing folk music of Rajasthan’s Manganiars, innovative fusions…

The William Davidson Institute (WDI) at the University of Michigan has appointed Rajat Chabba as its Senior Director of Innovation and Partnerships, a newly created role at the institute. With expertise in enterprise acceleration and strengthening innovation ecosystems, Chabba will focus on expanding WDI’s impact in emerging markets. Chabba highlighted WDI’s potential to support and scale entrepreneurial ecosystems in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in energy, climate, and health sectors. He aims to foster new collaborations and drive innovation at multiple levels, from platforms to ecosystems. Before joining WDI, Chabba was the Technical Director for Market Solutions at Jhpiego’s Innovations…

At the 12th convocation of Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) in Gandhinagar, Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering resolve, describing it as “as hard as a diamond.” He commended Modi’s ability to turn visionary ideas into concrete actions, stating that his “Mann ki Baat” naturally transforms into “Mann ka Sankalp,” reflecting his deep commitment to achieving goals. Ambani further emphasized that Modi’s determination is unwavering, calling it “Vajra Sankalp.” He also highlighted Modi’s relentless energy, referring to his name as symbolizing “Anant Shakti” or infinite strength. Addressing the Prime Minister’s work ethic, Ambani quoted Pandit…

President Donald Trump emphasized the need for India to purchase more American-made arms and ammunition during his phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The newly inaugurated president stressed the importance of fostering a “fair bilateral trade” relationship between the two nations. The White House confirmed that Trump called for India to enhance its security equipment procurement from the US, signaling a broader push toward improving bilateral trade ties. In addition to the trade discussion, the two leaders touched on several regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. They reiterated their commitment to strengthening the US-India strategic partnership…

Ravi Bhalla, the two-term mayor of Hoboken, New Jersey, has announced his candidacy for the State Assembly in the 32nd Legislative District. Bhalla, a Democrat, made history in 2017 as the first Sikh to hold elected office in New Jersey and the first directly elected Sikh mayor in the United States. In November 2021, he won re-election in a rare uncontested race. Earlier this month, Bhalla confirmed he would not seek a third term as mayor. In a statement to local media, Bhalla emphasized the importance of mayoral representation in Trenton to achieve impactful results. He pledged to prioritize reducing…

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) has voiced strong concerns about Kash Patel, an Indian American nominated to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). In a speech on January 22, Durbin questioned Patel’s experience, temperament, and judgment for the role, arguing that the FBI director must be impartial and reliable. Durbin highlighted Patel’s political loyalty and controversial past, which he believes could undermine the agency’s ability to protect Americans from various threats. Durbin’s concerns came ahead of Patel’s confirmation hearing, scheduled for January 29. Durbin and other senators worry that Patel, a staunch Trump ally with extreme views, may focus on…