Must Read News

US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Proposes Tamil Language and Heritage Month

US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month, coinciding with the Tamil harvest festival, Pongal. In a post on X, Krishnamoorthi remarked, “January holds special significance for the 360,000 Tamil Americans in the US, as they celebrate the vibrant festival of Pongal.” The resolution acknowledges Tamil as one of the world’s oldest languages, spoken by over 80 million people globally, including 360,000 Tamil Americans. In a press release, Krishnamoo ..... Read More

Tarun Das Honored with Singapore’s Highest Citizenship Award

Tarun Das, former Director General of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), has been conferred the prestigious Honorary Citizen Award by Singapore for his exceptional contributions to strengthening ties between Singapore and India. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam presented the honor during a ceremony in New Delhi on Wednesday. The Honorary Citizen Award is the highest recognition Singapore offers to non-citizens for significant contributions to the nation’s growth in fields such as business, science, education, culture, and more. Das, a ..... Read More

Sunil Shetty Stars in Tulu Film ‘Jai,’ a Milestone for the Industry

Bollywood actor Sunil Shetty has shot an important scene for his debut Tulu film, ‘Jai,’ directed by Roopesh Shetty. The film, a big-budget project, features Shetty alongside actors Raj Deepak Shetty and Prasanna Shetty Bailur in a sequence filmed at Sahyadri College’s turf ground. ‘Jai’ is set in several picturesque coastal locations such as Kuthar, Dambel, Marakada, and more, offering a visual treat. This project also marks the first time a helicopter has been used in a Tulu film, further elevating the industry’s production value. The film’s ..... Read More

India Achieves Historic Space Docking Milestone with SpaDeX Mission

India has joined an elite group of nations by achieving successful space docking, becoming the fourth country globally to accomplish this milestone. On Thursday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced the success of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), marking a historic achievement in India’s space program. The SpaDeX docking process involved precise manoeuvres from a 15-metre distance to a 3-metre hold point, resulting in the successful capture of two spacecraft. Following this, retraction and rigidisation were smo ..... Read More

Global Delegates Witness Maha Kumbh’s Spiritual Splendor

The Uttar Pradesh government’s Maha Kumbh has become a global attraction, drawing a delegation of 21 representatives from 10 countries to Prayagraj’s Sangam on Thursday. Among the delegates, Denesh Persaud from Guyana shared his joy after a sacred dip in the Ganges, calling it a “dream come true.” He encouraged others to join this significant event and experience its spiritual essence. Sally El Azab from the UAE traveled to India to witness the Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering. She praised its ..... Read More

India to Become Fourth Largest Economy by 2026

India is projected to secure its place as the world’s fourth largest economy by 2026, overtaking Japan, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 6.8% in FY25 and an anticipated 7.7% in FY26. The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) credits this impressive trajectory to the country’s strong economic resilience and solid macroeconomic foundation. To further fuel this growth, PHDCCI suggests increasing the income tax exemption threshold to $11,566 and limiting the highest tax rate to incomes exceeding $46,264. These adjustments ..... Read More

AR Rahman Launches Bharat Maestro Awards to Celebrate Indian Classical Music

On January 6, Grammy and Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman marked his 58th birthday by unveiling the Bharat Maestro Awards, a new initiative aimed at celebrating the enduring legacy of Indian classical music. Launched in partnership with his KM Music Conservatory, the awards aspire to honor the contributions of past music legends and inspire the next generation of talent. Through the Bharat Maestro Awards, Rahman seeks to ensure that the rich traditions of Indian classical music continue to thrive. “The greatest joy of a guru is to witness ..... Read More

Government Expands Payment Options for Rooftop Solar

The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy has introduced updated guidelines, adding two new payment options for rooftop solar installations under the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. This development ensures enhanced payment security and facilitates subsidy grants to households using Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) or utility-led aggregation (ULA) models. The scheme now includes a “Payment Security Mechanism” (PSM) and “Central Financial Assistance” to de-risk investments in rooftop solar setups, particular ..... Read More

#SOCALSTRONG: BAPS Charities Supports Wildfire Relief

In response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, BAPS Charities has launched the #SOCALSTRONG Wildfire Relief and Recovery Fund to assist affected families. These wildfires have destroyed communities, leaving thousands displaced without access to basic needs like food, clean water, and shelter. To support those impacted, BAPS Charities is actively delivering critical aid, including essential supplies, hygiene products, and monetary support for recovery efforts. The initiative aims to help displaced families and first responders with foo ..... Read More

India’s Rise as a Global Data Centre Hub: Piyush Goyal

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has spotlighted India’s potential to emerge as a global leader in data centres. Speaking at the Thuglak 55th-year anniversary event in Chennai, he outlined the nation’s strides in infrastructure development and technology investments, which are laying the foundation for significant economic growth. Goyal highlighted that India’s unique interconnected power grid, established in just three years, has eradicated regional energy cost disparities. This reliable and green energy network has piqued int ..... Read More

India to Co-Produce U.S. Sonobuoys for Naval Surveillance

India and the U.S. have announced a groundbreaking partnership to co-produce sonobuoys, advanced technology used for detecting submarines underwater. These systems will be assembled in India, with the aim of establishing an operational production line by 2027, according to Ultra Maritime (UM), the U.S. company involved in the project. The final assembly of these U.S.-specification sonobuoys will be conducted in India, with co-production efforts carried out in partnership with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a state-owned defense company. This gr ..... Read More

Senate Democrats delay Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation hearing over paperwork issues

Senate Democrats have successfully stalled Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation as the director of national intelligence, requesting missing background checks and essential paperwork. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) emphasized the importance of having all required documents before proceeding with the confirmation process, particularly in the sensitive area of national security. According to Wyden, these documents are crucial, although their absence isn’t a headline-grabbing issue. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) acknowledged the delay, attributing it t ..... Read More

PM Modi launches ‘Mission Mausam,’ celebrating 150 years of IMD

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) as a cornerstone of India’s scientific achievements during its 150th foundation day celebrations. He marked the occasion by unveiling a commemorative postage stamp and coin. PM Modi described IMD as a key player in India’s scientific journey, highlighting its pivotal role in national development and public welfare. He also introduced “Mission Mausam,” a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing India’s weather prediction systems and creating ..... Read More

India’s Milestone in Milk Production Lauded by President

President Droupadi Murmu acknowledged India’s exceptional progress in the production of milk and dairy products, emphasizing the critical role livestock plays in supporting the rural economy. Virtually addressing the launch of new initiatives by the Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation, she recognized the diverse breeds of livestock that form an integral part of India’s agricultural legacy. The President highlighted the government’s dedicated efforts in improving livestock through advanced breeding programs and genetic enha ..... Read More

India Successfully Conducts Field Trials of Nag Mk-2 Anti-Tank Missile

India has successfully conducted field evaluation trials of the indigenously developed Nag Mk-2, a third-generation anti-tank guided missile. The trials were held recently at Pokhran in Rajasthan, under the supervision of senior Indian Army officials. The missile’s fire-and-forget technology performed well during three trials, accurately targeting both the maximum and minimum range, confirming its precise firing capabilities. Additionally, the Nag missile carrier version 2 was also evaluated during the trials. With the successful testing, ..... Read More

Global visitors mesmerized by Maha Kumbh’s spiritual energy: ‘Unforgettable experience’

The Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj began on Monday with the auspicious ‘Shahi Snan’ on ‘Paush Purnima,’ drawing millions of devotees to the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Recognized as the world’s largest human gathering, the event has captivated global visitors seeking spiritual connection and cultural insight. Michael, a former US Army soldier now known as ‘Baba Mokshapuri,’ shared his journey to asceticism. “Life’s impermanence led me to seek salvation. Th ..... Read More

Sunita Williams to extend space stay beyond 7 months, details awaited

NASA has postponed the launch of SpaceX Crew 10, which was originally scheduled for February 2025. The new expected launch date is now late March 2025. This delay impacts the return of NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who were supposed to come back to Earth as part of the SpaceX Crew 9 mission. Williams and Wilmore, who launched into space on June 5, 2024, aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, have been stuck in space for months after NASA decided to replace the faulty Starliner with a SpaceX Dragon capsule. The two astr ..... Read More

US-India ties set for continued growth: EAM Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed strong optimism about the continued progress of India-US relations, highlighting the solid foundation established by previous administrations and the positive rapport between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to assume office soon. During a press conference in Madrid alongside Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, Jaishankar highlighted the dynamic growth in India-US ties. “India-US relations have seen remarkable progress across multiple d ..... Read More

Steady GDP Growth, Rate Cuts to Boost FY26 Credit

Fitch Ratings has forecasted that India’s stable GDP growth, improved banking sector health, and anticipated interest-rate reductions in 2025 will enhance credit access for corporates in FY26. Despite elevated capital expenditures, Indian corporates are expected to see stronger credit metrics and higher EBITDA margins. However, challenges such as rising energy prices, geopolitical uncertainties, rupee depreciation, and trade restrictions could potentially impact exports. Fitch estimates that sales growth for rated corporates will remain modest ..... Read More

Indian-American community rallies for support amid LA wildfire devastation

The catastrophic wildfires raging through Los Angeles have caused widespread destruction, leaving entire neighborhoods in ruins. The Pacific Palisades area, home to many, was among the hardest hit. Amit Shiwalkar, a local resident, recounts his harrowing escape. On January 7, 2025, the situation escalated rapidly as he and his wife fled their home, grabbing only essential items like wedding photos and sacred relics, unsure of their fate. “We thought we’d return, just like after the 2019 fires, but this time was different,” said Shiwalkar, who n ..... Read More

Z-Morh Tunnel marks the beginning of J&K’s transformation: PM Modi

The inauguration of the Sonamarg tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks the beginning of transformative infrastructure development in the region. This milestone is expected to significantly enhance tourism and reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh. On Monday, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari outlined timelines for over a dozen key projects, including highways, tunnels, and ropeways, collectively valued at $12 billion. Speaking at Sonamarg, PM Modi highlighted J&K’s emergence as a hub for advanced ..... Read More

India’s Fintech Funding Ranks Third Globally in 2024

India maintained its position as the third-largest global fintech funding recipient in 2024, despite a 33% year-over-year decline, with total funding reaching $1.9 billion, according to Tracxn’s Annual India Fintech Report. This marks a significant drop compared to $2.8 billion in 2023 and $5.6 billion in 2022, reflecting the sector’s challenges amid global geopolitical tensions and reduced demand. Despite the downturn, India’s fintech ecosystem remains among the world’s top three, following the US and the UK. The year saw the emerg ..... Read More

Indian-American policy advisor to Biden highlights broad support for immigration expansion

Amidst the ongoing debate over H-1B visas, US Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden emphasized America’s immigrant heritage and the need for legal immigration reforms. Speaking to PTI, she noted the overwhelming contributions of Indian professionals, who dominate the H-1B visa program, particularly in technology, with a Congressional cap of 65,000 visas annually, plus 20,000 for US-educated individuals. Tanden condemned the hate campaign against Indian-Americans following Sriram Krishnan’s appointment as White House Policy Advisor on Artificial ..... Read More

Eric Garcetti: Indian Americans Set to Shape Future Leadership in the US

With just over a week until Donald Trump assumes his second term as US President, outgoing US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti underscored the growing prominence of Indian Americans. While expressing regret over Kamala Harris’s electoral defeat, Garcetti remained optimistic, predicting an Indian American President in the near future. He highlighted the significant contributions of Indian immigrants, who constitute 1.5% of the US population yet pay 6% of the nation’s income taxes. Indian Americans excel in leading universities, states, an ..... Read More

S Jaishankar to Represent India at Trump’s Inauguration

On January 20, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar will represent India at the swearing-in ceremony of US President-elect Donald Trump, marking the start of his tenure as the 47th President of the United States. Jaishankar’s attendance follows an invitation from the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee, as confirmed by a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release. During his visit, Jaishankar is expected to meet with representatives of the incoming administration, as well as other dignitaries attending the event. The official event wil ..... Read More