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India democratizes tech, aims to end divide: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the inclusive nature of technology, stressing its role in empowering people across all segments of society. India, he noted, has successfully democratized cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), particularly benefiting millions in rural areas. In a one-on-one discussion with Microsoft Co-founder Bill Gates, PM Modi emphasized his belief in technology’s optimal utilization in essential sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and education. He pointed to the establishment of 0.2 mi ..... Read More

Janaki Ammal: Botany’s Unsung Environmental Pioneer

Unsung champions, often overlooked, play pivotal roles in shaping the world through their remarkable contributions and altruistic deeds. While renowned figures garner attention, it is these unsung heroes who silently drive change, progress, and compassion. Emerging across diverse domains, from local communities to global arenas, they leave lasting impressions on society, showcasing the profound impact individuals can have irrespective of recognition. This series aims to highlight India’s unsung heroes and heroines, celebrating their invaluabl ..... Read More

India leads in renewable energy: Eric Garcetti

During the US-India Forum on Decarbonising Pathways, Mr. Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, commended India for its significant role in adopting renewable energy. He emphasized the importance of increased cooperation between New Delhi and Washington to combat climate change effectively. Mr. Garcetti stressed the urgent need to implement clean energy solutions to support sustainable economic development and safeguard vulnerable communities. Speaking about the strong partnership between the United States and India, Mr. Garcetti expressed ..... Read More

PM Modi proposes Green GDP concept for the world

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s significant strides in renewable energy, particularly solar, wind energy, and green hydrogen, to foster a ‘Green GDP’ crucial for global climate action. Modi advocated for integrating Green GDP into economic assessments worldwide, suggesting a shift in terminology to reflect environmental impacts accurately. During a discussion with Microsoft Co-founder Bill Gates, Modi stressed the importance of reevaluating economic development metrics to incorporate the environmental footprint. As India ..... Read More

Indian-American Mathematician T.N. Subramaniam Dies

Dr. T N Subramaniam, a distinguished Indian American mathematician known for his groundbreaking work and innovation, including the creation of Route One company and server for General Motors, passed away in Michigan at the age of 76. Having immigrated to the US in 1979, Subramaniam left a lasting impact on both Indian and American academic circles with his profound mathematical models and theories. Initially teaching mathematics at Philadelphia University, he later relocated to Oakland, where he continued to contribute significantly to the fie ..... Read More

Amitav Ghosh wins Erasmus Prize 2024

Amitav Ghosh, an author originally from India and currently based in New York, has been honored with the Erasmus Prize 2024 by the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation, a cultural institution in the Netherlands. This prestigious award includes a monetary prize of US $163,947 (€150,000), scheduled to be presented in the autumn of 2024. Ghosh expressed his joy and deep gratitude upon receiving this recognition. Ghosh’s selection for the award stems from his significant contribution to the theme of ‘imagining the unthinkable’ and his efforts to ..... Read More

India transfers US$ 60 million to Bhutan for GyalSung Project

India has transferred an additional US$ 60 million (INR/Nu 5 billion) to Bhutan for infrastructure development under the GyalSung Project, further solidifying their collaborative efforts. Ambassador Sudhakar Dalela presented the funds to Bhutan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Mr. Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel. This follows the initial disbursement of US$ 60 million (INR/Nu 5 billion) on January 28, 2024, making it a total of US$ 120 million (INR/Nu 10 billion) provided by India as per the Memorandum of Understanding on concessional f ..... Read More

India targets 30% EV sales by 2030: Care Edge Ratings

An assessment conducted by CareEdge Ratings highlights a significant transformation in India’s automotive sector, witnessing a notable shift from conventional fuel-powered vehicles to alternative fuel options. In the period from 2020 to 2023, the proportion of petrol vehicle sales decreased from 86% to 76%, while diesel vehicle sales experienced a slight decline from 12% to 11%. Conversely, sales of alternative fuel-driven vehicles soared by over 400% in CY 2023. This surge is attributed to the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), dr ..... Read More

India key in global veggie seeds market: S&P GCI

The worldwide vegetable seeds market, valued at about USD 8 billion in 2022, is expanding due to rising global demand for diverse vegetable types. India is a prominent player in this sector, alongside China, Japan, and the United States, according to S&P Global Commodity Insights (GCI). The vegetable seeds market is highly fragmented, presenting both opportunities and challenges for industry stakeholders. It offers niches for companies to establish strong positions with over 40 different vegetable crops. However, this diversity poses challen ..... Read More

India’s trade policy aligns with economic growth: Piyush Goyal

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that India’s trade strategy is aligned with its economic development trajectory, aiming for $2 trillion in exports by 2030. He assured that while calibrated to suit its growth journey, the policy remains open for expansion. Speaking at a media event in New Delhi, Goyal highlighted India’s withdrawal from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in 2019, citing concerns from stakeholders and the need to safeguard against an influx of cheap Chinese goods. He emphasized tha ..... Read More

Begum Hazrat Mahal: Icon of Resistance Against British Rule

Begum Hazrat Mahal, famously known as the Begum of Awadh, was among India’s earliest female freedom fighters, leading the first Indian freedom movement in 1857 against the British East India Company. Despite hardships, she remained defiant against the British, even in exile. Born in the 1820s as Muhammadi Khanam to a poor Syed family in Faizabad, she rose from humble beginnings, eventually becoming a significant figure in Awadh’s history. Initially sold as a child and later becoming a concubine of the king of Awadh, she earned the title Ha ..... Read More

Sudhakar Veluru: Four Seasons’ EVP & CITO

Indian American Sudhakar Veluru appointed Four Seasons’ CITO, joining the Executive Leadership Team in Miami, reporting to CEO Alejandro Reynal. Veluru aims to lead IT advancements for guest and resident experience, shaping the brand’s future with innovation and excellence. Reynal expressed excitement for Veluru’s role in Four Seasons’ IT transformation, highlighting his extensive experience in technology and innovation. Veluru’s career spans over two decades with expertise in driving digital and IT transformation in the hospitality ..... Read More

Biden appoints M. Osman Siddique to Security Board

Siddique, appointed as envoy to the Fiji Islands, made history as the first South Asian American and Muslim US Ambassador serving as Chief of Mission anywhere. President Joe Biden intends to nominate him to the National Security Education Board (NSEB), which guides the National Security Education Program. As the inaugural American Muslim US Ambassador to lead as Chief of Mission, Siddique joins six Presidential appointees on the 14-member NSEB, comprising experts from various sectors. The announcement was made by the White House on March 22. ..... Read More

“The Yoga Therapy Renaissance” Illuminates a Growing Field

  Bija Bennett Yoga Therapy, an evidence-based practice used to treat chronic diseases, structural conditions and mental health issues, as well as foster wellbeing and personal growth, is taking root as a powerful tool to improve health and wellness, healing and more. However, it remains little understood by not only the public at large but also by healthcare professionals and many practitioners and teachers of more widespread forms of yoga. A new free eBook by Bija Bennett and industry experts, “The Yoga Therapy Renaissance: A New W ..... Read More

LIC: Top Insurance Brand – Brand Finance Report

The latest Brand Finance Insurance 100 2024 report has acknowledged the exceptional performance of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), recognizing it as the foremost insurance brand. LIC maintains a steady brand value of US$ 9.8 billion, coupled with an impressive brand strength index score of 88.3 and an esteemed AAA brand strength rating. Following LIC, Cathay Life Insurance emerges as the second strongest brand, witnessing a 9% growth in brand value to US$ 4.9 billion, while NRMA Insurance experienced an impressive 82% surge in brand ..... Read More

PM Modi praises Sandeshkhali survivor turned BJP candidate

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conversed with Rekha Patra, a resident of Sandeshkhali in West Bengal, now the BJP’s candidate for the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat. Patra gained prominence leading women’s protests against Sheikh Shahjahan, a suspended Trinamool Congress leader accused of various offenses. PM Modi discussed Patra’s campaign preparations for the upcoming polls, commending her as “Shakti Swaroopa” (goddess-like) in an audio exchange. Patra expressed gratitude for Modi’s support, likening it to a blessing from Lord Ram, and hi ..... Read More

Aruna Miller enters Maryland Women’s Hall of Fame

Aruna Miller, the Indian American Lt. Governor of Maryland, has been honored as the first woman of color and immigrant elected to statewide office in the state, being inducted into the Maryland Women’s Hall of Fame alongside four others. Miller, along with distinguished figures such as US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, Secretary of State Susan Lee, and Comptroller Brooke Lierman, was recognized at a ceremony held at Government House on March 21, according to a press release. Expressing gratitude, Mille ..... Read More

Indra Nooyi advises Indian students in US to stay safe

Following a series of tragic deaths of Indian students in the US, former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi has offered advice to Indian students regarding their safety upon arriving in America. The Consulate General of India in New York shared a video message by Indra Nooyi, emphasizing the importance of vigilance for Indian students studying or planning to study in the US. In the video, lasting about 10 minutes, Nooyi highlighted the costly nature of higher education in the US and the uncertainty of job prospects for students. She stressed the importa ..... Read More

Baiju Bhatt, Robinhood co-founder, resigns

Baiju Bhatt, the Indian American Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Robinhood Markets, is leaving his executive position at the investment platform after more than a decade in leadership, expressing his desire to explore other entrepreneurial ventures. Despite this transition, Bhatt will continue to serve as a member of Robinhood’s Board of Directors, as announced by the Menlo Park, California based company on March 21. Reflecting on his tenure, Bhatt expressed profound dedication to Robinhood’s mission of democratizing the financial ..... Read More

Dr Tessy Thomas: Missile Woman’s Inspiring Biography

Dr Tessy Thomas, fondly known as India’s Missile Woman, is a remarkable figure with an inspiring journey. Hailing from humble beginnings in Kerala, she defied societal norms and shattered barriers to reach the pinnacle of success in a male-dominated field. Early Life: Born in 1963 in Alappuzha, Kerala, to Syrian parents, Tessy Thomas faced adversity early in life when her father suffered a stroke, leaving him paralyzed. Despite the challenges, her mother’s dedication to both her career as a teacher and her family instilled in Tessy a stro ..... Read More

Bill Gates Receives the Prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2023

  Mr. Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Co-Founder & Former CEO of Microsoft receiving the prestigious Humanitarian Award 2023 from Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS & KIMS Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India Mr. Bill Gates, a prominent figure in global philanthropy and the co-founder of Microsoft, was recently celebrated with the 2023 KISS Humanitarian Award. This accolade was bestowed upon him on February 28, 2024, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in tribute to his exceptional endeavors in fostering global health, ed ..... Read More

AjnaLens launches High Performance Spatial Computing at GDC 2024, representing India

  AjnaLens representing India at GDC At the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2024 in San Francisco, AjnaLens, an Indian tech innovator, took center stage, showcasing India’s prowess in Extended Reality (XR) technology alongside industry giants such as Meta and Microsoft from March 18 to 22. AjnaLens, a frontrunner in XR, unveiled its AjnaVidya ecosystem, enabling developers to create, publish, and expand their projects with ease. The conference also spotlighted their revolutionary offerings, including AjnaHPSC (High Performance Spatial Com ..... Read More

EAM Jaishankar, Singapore PM discuss fintech, green economy

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong held discussions on enhancing collaboration in various sectors including fintech, digitalization, green economy, skills development, and food security. Jaishankar wrapped up his official visit to Singapore on March 25th, which marked the first leg of his tour to Singapore, Philippines, and Malaysia. During his stay, he met with PM Lee Hsien Loong and Lawrence Wong, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, to explore avenues for deeper engagemen ..... Read More

Jenifer Rajkumar initiates a Holi journey spanning New York

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar from New York is embarking on a citywide Holi tour to commemorate the arrival of spring and celebrate the vibrant festival of colors, which holds significance for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains alike. The tour will feature her participation in various lively Holi events across New York City. The festivities kick off on Sunday, March 24, at 11:30 am with a Holi celebration hosted by The Culture Tree at the Seaport in Manhattan, as announced in a media release from Rajkumar’s office. Later that same day at 2 ..... Read More

Kangana Ranaut’s Lok Sabha Bid: Mandi, BJP Ticket

Actress Kangana Ranaut is poised to enter the political arena by contesting the Lok Sabha election from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket. The BJP recently unveiled its fifth list of candidates, selecting Kangana, a vocal supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to run from her hometown. Born in Bhambla near Manali, situated in Mandi district, Kangana expressed her gratitude and excitement at officially joining the party. Taking to the microblogging site X, Kangana conveyed her feelings of honor and elation, ..... Read More