DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Sat, 27 Jun 2026 08:46:05 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-urges-nationals-to-avoid-travel-to-iran-leave-country-676933.html Tehran June 8 India on Monday reiterated its travel advisory for Iran amid the ongoing developments in the region urging its nationals to avoid travelling to it and those there to leave the country by all available means In a statement shared on X the Indian Embassy in Iran said In view of the latest developments in the region the Embassy reiterates its earlier advice to all Indian Nationals to avoid any travel to IranIndian Nationals presently in Iran are also advised to exit the country by available means of transport it addedThe advisory comes as tensions continue to escalate in West Asia following recent exchanges between Iran and IsraelThe Israel Defence Forces IDF said that it has struck several targets at the petrochemical complex in Irans Mahshahr areaIn another statement the Israeli military said that all the Iranian missiles launched at Israel on Monday morning were interceptedThe IDF stated that the impact reported in an open field in the West Bank was likely a large fragment after an interception Furthermore an allclear was given in the Jerusalem area after an early warning was issued for an Iranian missile attack The Times of Israel reportedOn Sunday Ali Abdollahi chief commander of Irans Khatam alAnbiya Central Headquarters warned that Israel will face more crushing and regretinducing blows if it expands its attacks on southern Lebanon and the Dahieh district south of the Lebanese capital Beirut or responds to Irans actionIn a statement aired by Irans semiofficial Fars news agency on Sunday local time he stressed that Israel must stop its attacks on southern Lebanon and Dahieh otherwise devastating attacks will begin against Israel and its supportersIsrael has increased its malicious actions against Lebanese people on a daily basis with the US greenlight and international organisations lack of response and is perpetrating war crimes by using banned weapons including phosphorus bombs Abdollahi saidDespite Irans earlier warnings Israel has increased its attacks on southern Lebanon and has targeted Dahieh by crossing all red lines he saidThe ongoing tensions in West Asia erupted following the USIsraeli strikes on Iran on February 28 which killed Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and top military officials In response Iran launched drone and missile attacks targeting the US and Israeli facilities regional capitals and allied forces in West AsiaA ceasefire between Iran the United States and Israel took effect on April 8 In recent weeks Iran and the United States have reportedly exchanged several proposals outlining conditions for peace and are working to finalise a memorandum of understanding aimed at formally ending the conflict IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-urges-nationals-to-avoid-travel-to-iran-leave-country-676933.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kerala-cm-flags-uncertain-future-of-medics-working-in-uae-seeks-pm-modis-intervention-676848.html Thiruvananthapuram June 7 Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan has sought Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs assistance and intervention in addressing the economic plight and uncertain future of Indian paramedics predominantly from the southern state working in the UAE In a letter to the Prime Minister Satheesan said that the Indian healthcare professionals including nurses are facing a host of visarelated issues in the Gulf nation due to the prolonged faceoff between the US and Iran in the region and this is making it difficult for them to obtain employment visit and dependent visasMaking a specific reference to an Iranian hospital in Dubai he said that the healthcare workers from the state are facing an extremely distressing situationFurther raising concerns over a possible threat to their job and livelihoods due to certain restrictions in the conflicthit zone the Kerala CM said that many of them are on the verge of completion of their grace period and said that they may face âforced deportationâ upon expiry of their stay in the UAEMany affected individuals are currently nearing the end of their grace period and fear that they may be compelled to leave the UAE potentially jeopardising their future employment opportunities and professional licensing he wrote in the letter flagging an imminent threat to the livelihoods of scores of medicsThe situation has caused immense anxiety among numerous Malayali families whose lives and childrens education are rooted in the UAE he addedSatheesan demanded that the Ministry of External Affairs engage with the Embassy of India in the UAE and relevant UAE authorities to explore a fair and compassionate resolution on humanitarian groundsThe Kerala CM also highlighted the contribution of Indian healthcare workers in the entire Gulf nation including the UAE in ensuring seamless healthcare and also fighting emergent situationsâThese professionals served with dedication and distinction including during the Covid19 pandemic when they stood on the front lines of healthcare deliveryâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kerala-cm-flags-uncertain-future-of-medics-working-in-uae-seeks-pm-modis-intervention-676848.html Sun, 07 Jun 2026 16:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/look-forward-to-hosting-pm-modi-soon-australian-pm-albanese-hails-bilateral-ties--675425.html Canberra May 28 IANS Hailing their bilateral relationship Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the ties between the two nations continue to deepen through culture education cricket and trade and that he looks forward to hosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the near futurenbspIn his address at the Australian Parliament Albanese highlighted Indias economic growth and emphasised that the trade relationship between the two nations has been further enhanced by the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement ECTA He recalled his first visit to India in 1991 describing it as a wonderful experienceIndia of course has the largest population in the world but it will also grow to be the third largest economy in the world over this decade That is an extraordinary opportunity for us in our region We are a Pacific nation but we are also an Indian Ocean nation as well Our trading relationship has been enhanced by the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement and we are further drawn together through culture education and of course the international language of cricket One of my great honours has been my two visits so far to India as Prime MinisternbspWhen I first visited India as a backpacker way back in 1991 a long time ago I travelled a bit differently in those days I do want to say if you want to understand India get on a video bus or train It is a wonderful experience to see firsthand the warmth that is there Now likewise will have the privilege of hosting Prime Minister Modi here soon a privilege I look forward to repeating for the second time he addedAlbanese lauded the Indian communitys contribution to Australian society and how they have strengthened ties between the two nations He expressed the Australian governments commitment to supporting Indians and their interestsnbspLike last time Prime Minister Modis visit will be made extraordinary by so many of the millionstrong Indian Australian community the largest growing migrant community in Australia Thats a community that has added so much through their love of this country their spirit of generosity and through generations of hard work and aspiration that have strengthened our economy and enhanced our society not least of course all those wonderful small businesses that have benefited from the Indian diaspora he saidWhat these great Australians have done in the process is strengthen the important links between this land that is their home and future and the land of their extraordinary heritage I say to them were a better country because of you My government will always stand up for you and your interests We will reject any attempt to divide That is definitely worth noting that we need to celebrate the contribution that Indian migrants have made and will continue to make to this country he addedWhile sharing Albaneses video on X Australias High Commissioner to India Philip Green said When your Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks with so much conviction ampamp passion about India the country where you serve as the High Commissioner it makes your job infinitely more meaningful We look forward to welcoming you to Australia Prime Minister Narendra Modi jiIANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/look-forward-to-hosting-pm-modi-soon-australian-pm-albanese-hails-bilateral-ties--675425.html Thu, 28 May 2026 15:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/andhra-pradesh-government-intervenes-to-help-woman-stranded-in-oman-672160.html Amaravati May 4 The Andhra Pradesh government has come to the rescue of a woman from the state stranded in Oman Dudekula Shehnaz a native of Vayalapadu village in Annmayya district was held in confinement by her employerFollowing intervention by the state government and Andhra Pradesh NonResident Telugu Society APNRTS she is now expected to return home on May 7According to an official release on Monday the woman was held in confinement and the agents office demanded Rs 2 lakh to cover expensesShahnaz had travelled to Muscat last November in search of a job Dissatisfied with the work she wished to return home but was not allowed to leaveHer family members had expressed deep concern after her phone was confiscated Her husband Abubaker had lodged a complaint with the APNRTSThe state government and the APNRTS responded immediately A letter was sent to the Indian embassy in MuscatPolice intervened to facilitate negotiations with the agent who agreed to bear the costs and send Shahnaz back to Andhra Pradesh the release saidChief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu stated that the state government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of migrant workers He commended the APNRTSEarlier the office of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan stated on Sunday that he responded to a woman in distressThe Deputy Chief Ministers office contacted the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the diplomatic missionShehnaz who had gone to Muscat to work for her familys sustenance was unable to bear the harassment in her workplace and sent a video message to Pawan Kalyan via social mediaThe video she sent showing her weeping and saying Pawan Kalyan anna save me deeply moved the Deputy Chief Minister Hearing her words that they were beating her not even giving food or water and that her life was in danger Pawan Kalyan was profoundly affected He immediately instructed his office staff to take the necessary actions to bring her back to the homeland without delay In accordance with the Deputy Chief Ministers orders the office staff initiated efforts to rescue ShehnazThey spoke with the agent in Oman through her husband They also contacted the diplomatic mission and officials from the Ministry of External Affairs IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/andhra-pradesh-government-intervenes-to-help-woman-stranded-in-oman-672160.html Mon, 04 May 2026 14:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-calls-on-uae-president-expresses-gratitude-for-ensuring-well-being-of-indian-community-669063.html Abu Dhabi April 12 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar called on UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday and conveyed greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi During the meeting EAM Jaishankar expressed gratitude to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for ensuring the wellbeing of the Indian community in the UAE during the conflict in West AsiaCrown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was also present during the meetingDeeply honoured to call on President of UAE HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi today Conveyed warm greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and our gratitude for ensuring wellbeing of the Indian community during the West Asia conflict Thank him for his guidance on further strengthening the IndiaUAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership EAM Jaishankar posted on XIn another post he wrote Good to see HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during the call Conveyed the appreciation of our Government for ensuring the welfare of the Indian community in DubaiEAM Jaishankar is on a twoday official visit to the UAE On Saturday he held talks with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the evolving situation in West Asia and its wider implicationsThe External Affairs Minister expressed confidence that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations will advance furtherA real pleasure to meet DPM and FM of UAE Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi this evening Our conversation focused on the evolving regional situation and its implications Conveyed our deep appreciation for ensuring the wellbeing of the Indian community in the UAE Confident that our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will advance further he wrote on XEAM Jaishankar also interacted with the members of the Indian community on Saturday During his interaction he highlighted the Indian governments ongoing efforts towards the security and wellbeing of its nationals amidst the West Asia conflictStarted my visit to the UAE interacting with the members of the Indian Community Spoke about GOIs efforts towards their wellbeing and security amidst the West Asia conflict Appreciated their contributions to the local society during these difficult times As well as the support of the Government of the UAE in ensuring welfare of the Indian community the minister posted on X after the meetingEAM Jaishankar arrived in the UAE on Saturday for a twoday official visit after concluding his visit to Mauritius where he participated in the 9th Indian Ocean Conference and met the countrys leadership IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-calls-on-uae-president-expresses-gratitude-for-ensuring-well-being-of-indian-community-669063.html Sun, 12 Apr 2026 15:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/canada-advised-to-act-firmly-against-khalistani-extremist-activities-665959.html New Delhi March 22 Canada is facing fresh calls to take firm action against Khalistani extremist elements operating from its soil amid concerns that separatist networks continue to use the country as a base for antiIndia activities The issue has remained a persistent irritant in ties between India and Canada with New Delhi repeatedly raising concerns about proKhalistan groups organising events spreading propaganda and targeting Indian diplomatic missionsAn opinion piece published by Khalsa Vox argued that Ottawa can no longer ignore the activities of extremist elements advocating the creation of Khalistan and must move decisively against networks promoting violence and intimidationThe commentary said the problem is not about restricting legitimate political expression but about confronting individuals and organisations that glorify violence issue threats and attempt to radicalise sections of the diasporaIt noted that extremist rhetoric and campaigns directed at Indian diplomats and institutions have continued in recent years raising questions about the effectiveness of Canadaâs response to such activitiesThe article also emphasised that the vast majority of Sikhs living in Canada do not support separatist extremism and that conflating the broader community with fringe elements would be both inaccurate and harmfulAccording to the commentary failure to act against extremist groups risks allowing them to exploit democratic freedoms to promote divisive and violent agendas while damaging bilateral tiesIndia has on several occasions conveyed its concerns over the activities of proKhalistan organisations abroad urging Canadian authorities to take stronger action against groups and individuals linked to separatist propaganda and violenceThe opinion piece argued that decisive steps against extremist networks would not only help protect democratic institutions but could also contribute to rebuilding trust in relations between India and CanadaIt added that addressing the issue firmly would send a clear signal that advocacy of violence and intimidation has no place in democratic societies IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/canada-advised-to-act-firmly-against-khalistani-extremist-activities-665959.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 17:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/iran-israel-war-telangana-sets-up-control-room-in-new-delhi-for-its-citizens-in-gulf-663556.html Hyderabad March 2 The Telangana government has established a 24x7 control room at Telangana Bhavan New Delhi for its citizens in the Middle East in view of the ongoing IranIsrael war in the region On the directions of Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy the state government is closely monitoring the prevailing situationSenior officials at Telangana Bhavan are already in continuous contact with the Ministry of External Affairs Government of India and the concerned Indian Embassies to assess the situation said an official releaseIn view of the enquiries being received from Telangana citizens residing in the affected countries including those who may be stranded and from their family members the state government has established a 24x7 control room at Telangana Bhavan New DelhiThe control room will function roundtheclock to facilitate necessary coordination and extend assistance as requiredTelangana citizens presently residing in the region or their family members in Telangana may contact the control room in case of distress travel disruptions or other emergency situationsThe contact numbers at the control room are Vandana Barua PS to Resident Commissioner amp Liaison Head 91 9871999044 CH Chakravarthi Public Relations Officer 91 9958322143 Javed Husain Liaison Officer 9910014749 Rakshit Naik Liaison Officer 91 9643723157The Government of Telangana will continue to closely monitor the situation and extend necessary support in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs Government of India the release addedEarlier Chief Minister Revanth Reddy advised all Telugu people residing in Iran and other Gulf countries to remain extremely alert in view of reports of ongoing conflict in the regionThe Chief Minister urged them to strictly follow safety guidelines and adhere to advisories and warnings issued from time to time by Indian embassies in the respective countriesThe Chief Minister stated that in case of any emergency the state government will coordinate with the Union Government to ensure the safe return of Telugu citizensHe said the Telangana government is continuously monitoring the situation of the people from the State living in Iran and other Gulf nationsOfficials have been directed to remain prepared to take appropriate measures in coordination with the Centre if necessary They were also instructed to maintain contact with Indian embassies and consulates in those countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/iran-israel-war-telangana-sets-up-control-room-in-new-delhi-for-its-citizens-in-gulf-663556.html Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/iran-israel-flare-up-kerala-sets-up-dedicated-helpdesk-to-assist-gulf-expatriates-663148.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 28 Amid fastescalating hostilities between Iran and Israel the Kerala government has moved swiftly to address mounting concerns over the safety of expatriates in West Asia Tensions flared after a joint USIsrael strike on Iranian targets triggered a major retaliatory missile barrage from Tehran Iran reportedly launched around 30 missiles at Israel in a coordinated assault prompting the activation of the Israeli Air Force and its air defence systemsWhile Israel confirmed an attempted attack it has not disclosed the full extent of the damageReports also indicated explosions in Bahrain home to the US Fifth Fleet suggesting that the confrontation could widen beyond Israeli territoryPrecautionary measures followed swiftly across the Gulf region Qatar Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates announced temporary airspace closures amid heightened security alertsIran has warned that US and Israeli military bases across the region could be considered potential targets raising fears of a broader regional conflictThe developments have triggered anxiety in Kerala which has a substantial diaspora presence in Bahrain the UAE Kuwait Qatar and Saudi ArabiaLakhs of Malayalis are employed across sectors such as healthcare construction retail and financial services in these countries making stability in the Gulf critical to both families and the stateâs remittancedriven economyResponding to the situation Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed the NonResident Keralites Affairs NORKA Department to immediately set up a dedicated helpdeskThe facility will monitor developments coordinate with Indian embassies and provide realtime assistance and advisories to expatriates and their families in KeralaMeanwhile all Indian citizens have been advised to follow the instructions issued by the Indian embassies in the respective countries and the Union Ministry of External AffairsOfficials described the move as precautionary but essential given the rapidly evolving security landscapeWith the possibility of the conflict spreading across West Asia Keralaâs proactive outreach reflects both humanitarian concern and economic prudence IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/iran-israel-flare-up-kerala-sets-up-dedicated-helpdesk-to-assist-gulf-expatriates-663148.html Sat, 28 Feb 2026 17:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-voter-atlas-launched-662439.html Washington Feb 23 An Indian American civic data initiative was launched on Monday ahead of the midterm elections later this fall The platform aims to map and understand the communitys political footprintIt describes itself as the first open nonpartisan effort of its kind focused on Indian AmericansAnnouncing the launch community leader Anang Mittal called it the first nonpartisan open civic data platform built specifically for and about the Indian American communityTaking to his official X account Mittal repeated that it is the first nonpartisan open civic data platform built specifically for and about the Indian American communityThe platform accessible at voteratlasio seeks to provide structured civic data on Indian Americans in the USThe launch statement did not outline detailed featuresIt stressed that the initiative is nonpartisan and communityspecificThe timing is significant Indian Americans are one of the fastestgrowing immigrantorigin communities in the US They are increasingly visible in elections public policy debates and campaign financingDatadriven tools now play a key role in modern political campaignsDiaspora communities are also using such tools to strengthen civic engagement and representationBy branding the platform as open and nonpartisan Mittal signalled that it is not aligned with any political party He framed it as a publicfacing data resourceThe emphasis on being built specifically for and about the Indian American community points to a targeted effortIt seeks to gather and present information relevant to the communitys civic presenceThe announcement on February 23 drew attention onlineThere is growing interest in tools that track voter data demographic trends and political participationPublic civic data platforms in the US often rely on federal state and local election records They also use census data and other publicly available datasetsThe launch statement did not provide methodological details about the Indian American Voter AtlasAccording to US census estimates Indian Americans number more than four millionOver the past two decades their political presence has expanded steadilyMembers of the community now serve at city state and federal levelsIndian Americans have also held senior posts in presidential administrationsPolitical analysts say the communitys high median income and educational attainment increase its influenceIts geographic concentration in key states also makes it an important electoral blocIn recent election cycles both major parties have stepped up outreach to Indian American voters IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-voter-atlas-launched-662439.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kerala-hc-orders-continued-probe-into-death-of-deported-indian-citizen-661467.html Kochi Feb 11 The Kerala High Court on Wednesday refused to close the habeas corpus petition filed in connection with the disappearance and death of Suraj Lama an Indian citizen deported from Kuwait A division bench of Justice Devan Ramachandran and Justice MB Snehalatha directed the Special Investigation Team SIT to continue its probeThe court said the entire sequence of events from Lamaâs arrival in India to the recovery of his body must be examined and properly documentedLama was deported from Kuwait and sent to Kochi under official ordersThe court noted that he appeared vulnerable and may have had cognitive or other impairments Despite this he was cleared by immigration and airport authorities and allowed to leave the airport without assistanceAfter a missing complaint was filed police took him into protective custody and admitted him to Kalamassery Medical College HospitalHe was later discharged as doctors reportedly found no apparent medical issuesSubsequently a body was recovered from KalamasseryA forensic report confirmed it was LamaThe Government Pleader informed the court that an interim postmortem report dated December 1 2025 stated that the cause of death could not be determined due to advanced decompositionThe court observed that the case remains wide open as the cause of death is still unknownIt said the petition cannot be closed merely because the body has been identifiedThe bench directed the investigating officer to produce the missing case file and the postmortem reportIt also asked the SIT led by the City Police Commissioner or an officer of equivalent rank to continue the investigationThe court noted allegations of lapses at multiple stages including immigration clearance police handling and medical careIt also recorded the petitionerâs claim that the possibility of murder cannot be ruled outWe are not investigating the murder We are investigating the sequence until the body was found the court clarifiedThe matter has been posted for hearing after three weeks IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kerala-hc-orders-continued-probe-into-death-of-deported-indian-citizen-661467.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/shared-love-for-tamil-language-connects-india-and-malaysia-pm-modi-661188.html Kuala Lumpur Feb 8 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Tamil language connects India and Malaysia and expressed hope that the Audio Visual Agreement between the two nations will bring our hearts closer Addressing a joint press meet with his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur PM Modi highlighted the interest of the Malaysians in the Tamil language and said Shared love for the Tamil language also connects India and Malaysia In Malaysia the strong and living presence of Tamil can be seen in education media and cultural life I am confident that with todays Audio Visual Agreement film and music especially Tamil films will bring our hearts closer he addedEarlier on Saturday the Prime Minister hailed the grand celebration of Indian culture in Malaysia especially the recordbreaking dance performance during the Selamat Datang Modiji event which was attended by over 12000 members of the Indian diaspora friends of India from across the country and also Malaysian PM Anwar IbrahimIn his address at the event PM Modi highlighted that Malaysia has the secondlargest Indianorigin community in the world and noted that there is much that connects Indian and Malaysian heartsHe also highlighted that the people of the two countries understand each other well possibly due to the large number of common words between their languages and Malay and have heard that Indian movies and music are popular in Malaysia PM Modi noted that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sings very well and also loves Tamil songs of the legendary MGRPrime Minister Modi reiterated that the Indianorigin community in Malaysia had preserved its traditions over centuries He recalled mentioning the community in his Mann Ki Baat programme where he shared that over 500 schools in Malaysia teach children in Indian languagesThe influence of saints such as Thiruvalluvar and Swami Vivekananda is visible in Malaysia and the recent Thaipusam celebrations at Batu Caves are divine and comparable to those at Palani he noted Prime Minister Modi also said that Garba is popular in Malaysia and added that India deeply cherishes its cultural ties with the Sikh community which continues to promote the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev JiStating that Tamil is Indias gift to the world PM Modi noted that Tamil literature is eternal Tamil culture is global and Tamil people have served humanity through their talentsIndias Vice President Thiru C P Radhakrishnan External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr Murugan are all from Tamil Nadu he told the large gatheringPrime Minister Modi further said that members of the Tamil diaspora in Malaysia are serving society in various fields and noted that the Tamil diaspora has been present in Malaysia for many centuries He said that inspired by this history India had established the Thiruvalluvar Chair at the University of Malaya and would now set up a Thiruvalluvar centre to further strengthen shared heritage IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/shared-love-for-tamil-language-connects-india-and-malaysia-pm-modi-661188.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/deeply-touched-by-warm-welcome-extended-by-friend-anwar-ibrahim-pm-modi-661159.html Kuala Lumpur Feb 7 IANS Highlighting the strong relationship between both countries which remains deeply rooted in history and civilization Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim travelled together to a community programme in Kuala Lumpur as the Indian PM began his twoday visit to the country on SaturdaynbspnbspCelebrating the IndiaMalaysia peopletopeople connect PM Anwar Ibrahim and I are heading to the community programme in Kuala Lumpur PM Modi posted on X along with a photograph of both leaders travelling together to the venue of the programme in the same car from the airportShortly before Prime Minister Modi had received a warm welcome from his Malaysian counterpart at the airport as he kicked off his visit aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties and enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nationsLanded in Kuala Lumpur Deeply touched by the warm welcome extended by my friend Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the airport I look forward to our conversations and to further strengthening the bonds of friendship between India and Malaysia said PM ModiExcited children holding the tricolour and the Malaysian flag greeted the Prime Minister at the airportEarlier in the day Prime Minister Modi said that his visit to Malaysia will aim to deepen the defence and security ties between the two nations and will further enhance the economic and innovation partnershipThis is his third visit to the Southeast Asian nation and the first after the elevation of the IndiaMalaysia bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2024In his departure statement Prime Minister Modi said The historic ties between India and Malaysia have seen steadfast progress in recent years I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and further enhancing our Comprehensive Strategic PartnershipWe will aim to deepen our defence and security ties enhance our economic and innovation partnership and expand our collaboration into new domains he saidPM Modi also expressed his eagerness to meet the Indian diaspora in Malaysia calling it a living bridge between the two nationsNumbering nearly three million they represent one of the largest Indian diasporas in the world Their immense contribution to Malaysias progress and their role as a living bridge between our two nations provide a strong foundation to our historic friendship he addedPM Modi will hold bilateral discussions with his Malaysian counterpart and will also interact with members of the Indian community as well as industry and business representatives according to the Ministry of External Affairs MEAThe 10th IndiaMalaysia CEO Forum is also scheduled to be held coinciding with the visit of the Prime MinisterIANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/deeply-touched-by-warm-welcome-extended-by-friend-anwar-ibrahim-pm-modi-661159.html Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/baps-dispatches-first-sacred-stones-from-india-for-frances-1st-traditional-hindu-mandir-659910.html Paris Jan 27 The FrancoIndian cultural collaboration witnessed a historic milestone as the first stones from India arrived in Paris for the new Hindu Mandir in BussySaintGeorges The ceremonial welcome of these stones signalled the next phase of construction of what will be the first traditional Hindu temple of its kind in France built using timehonoured craftsmanship and shared expertiseThe stones sourced from India and prepared using traditional techniques represent centuries of architectural heritage Select elements have been handcarved by skilled artisans in India preserving ancient methods passed down through generations before beginning their journey to FranceIn France Indian artisans will work alongside French stone masons including members of the team involved in the restoration of NotreDame Cathedral uniting Indian carving traditions with Franceâs renowned stonemasonry expertiseThe ceremony marked more than the delivery of the traditionally carved stones it symbolised a meeting of cultures values and knowledgeThe Mandir is being developed as part of a broader vision to create a space dedicated not only to worship but also to culture education and community engagement Once complete it will stand as a lasting symbol of friendship between India and FranceLocal and national representatives along with community leaders attended the ceremony recognising the significance of the project for France and its role in strengthening intercultural understandingSanjay Kara CEO of the Paris Mandir construction project and a trustee of BAPS UK amp Europe shared âThe arrival of the first stones from India marks a historic milestone Each one carries heritage care and intention symbolising Indian tradition meeting French engineering through shared respect and collaboration Guided by the values and vision of Mahant Swami Maharaj whose teachings emphasise service humility and harmony it is an honour to be part of a project that brings Indian and French expertise side by side and that will grow into a mandir serving not only worshippers but the wider community as a place of culture learning and harmonyâAmbassador of India to France Sanjeev Kumar Singla attended the special assembly Sharing his impressions Singla said âThis Mandir represents a unique collaboration The stones were sculpted in India by master artisans and will be assembled here in France by French stonemasonsâsome of whom also contributed to the restoration of NotreDame Cathedral This is the meeting of two great traditions of sacred architecture united by excellence and a shared pride in craftsmanshipThe meeting of Indian and French artisans symbolised today by the exchange of friendship bracelets reflects the cooperation respect and friendship between our peoples This moment is a celebration of culture heritage and universal human valuesâAmbassador JeanChristophe Peaucelle Advisor for Religious Affairs at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs remarked âThe launch of this project this Mandir represents something very new and very innovative This is the first time a temple of this kind will be built in France The partnership between our two countries is also spiritual and humanAlain Ngouoto SousPrÃfet de Torcy commented â I also want to tell you that today is a stone in the edifice â a building block of this French Indian friendship that I am carrying forward through this ceremony Here we are receiving ancestral stones from an art dating back to time immemorial to be assembled with ingenious French expertise I believe the fusion of the two will show us how two âgeniusesâ two intelligences can together build not only a friendship but also a structure which looking at the photos will likely be resplendentâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/baps-dispatches-first-sacred-stones-from-india-for-frances-1st-traditional-hindu-mandir-659910.html Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/dr-nori-dattatreyudu-conferred-padma-bhushan-for-pioneering-contribution-to-cancer-treatment-659677.html New Delhi Jan 25 Renowned radiation oncologist Dr Nori Dattatreyudu has been awarded the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding contribution to the field of medicine as the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the Padma Awards list for 2026 on Sunday The award recognises Dr Noriâs decadeslong work in advancing cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes across the worldThe Padma Awards among Indiaâs highest civilian honours are approved by the President of India and announced every year on the occasion of Republic DayFor 2026 President Droupadi Murmu has approved the conferment of 131 Padma Awards across three categoriesThese include five Padma Vibhushan 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards with two duo cases counted as single honoursThe awards will be formally presented by the President at ceremonial functions at Rashtrapati Bhavan usually held in March or AprilDr Nori a worldrenowned Indian radiation oncologist has been a leading figure in cancer research and treatment for several decadesHe has served as the principal investigator for numerous clinical trials sponsored by the US National Cancer Institute and has earned wide recognition for his contributions to radiation oncologyOne of his most significant achievements is his pioneering work in highdoserate brachytherapy which has transformed the treatment of cancers affecting the cervix urinary system chest head and neckHis work on remote afterloading brachytherapy has allowed doctors to deliver precise and targeted radiation to cancerous tissues while minimising damage to healthy cellsSince its introduction in the 1970s this technique has become a globally accepted standard and has helped millions of patients worldwideDr Noriâs contributions have been widely acknowledged at both national and international levels In 2014 he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honour one of the highest civilian awards in the United States He was also conferred the Padma Shri in 2015 for his services to medicineIn addition he has been named among the top doctors in America by his peers based on evaluations by tens of thousands of oncologists particularly for his work in treating cancers in womenBorn into a Telugu family in Mantada village in Andhra Pradeshâs Krishna district Dr Nori completed his medical education at Kurnool Medical College and later pursued postgraduate studies at Osmania Medical College IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/dr-nori-dattatreyudu-conferred-padma-bhushan-for-pioneering-contribution-to-cancer-treatment-659677.html Mon, 26 Jan 2026 01:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/record-10-500-tibetan-students-enrol-for-tibet-classes-across-chinese-cities-659681.html New Delhi Jan 25 The number of Tibetan students having enrolled in âTibet classesâ across many Chinese cities has seen a sharp rise this year setting a new record and also raising apprehension about attempts to sinicise the indigenous population of Tibet According to Chinese government figures released in a report by the Education Bureau of the Tibet Autonomous Region TAR as cited by Tibetan Review more than 10000 Tibetan students were admitted to the socalled Tibet Classes in major Chinese cities in 2025 This marks the highest annual intake since the programme began years agoâIn 2025 about 2000 Tibetan students were enrolled in junior middle school classes in China with the total number of classes increased to 150 Likewise a total of 4500 Tibetan students were stated to have been enrolled in senior middle school classes in China and the number of such classes increased to 205â the report statedâAlso a total of 4000 Tibetan students were enrolled in middle vocational education schools in China with the number of such classes increased to 223â it addedThe data indicates a significant rise in the number of specialised classes and institutions created under the programmeAmong the students enrolled for various programs more than 3000 hail from the TAR region while about 800 students come from Tsongon Qinghai Province a significant portion of the traditional Tibetan region of AmdoAccording to the report the enrollmentof Tibet Classes accelerated after 2023 The students enrolment has increased at an average annual rate of 99 per cent over the past three yearsChinese officials described this as a policy framework of three increments three coverages and one standardisation However Tibetan organisations and rights groups were highly critical of the program as they viewed it as a tool for political indoctrination and cultural assimilationThe Tibet Class system was first introduced in 1984 with Beijing citing limited educational development and a shortage of skilled personnel in Tibetan areas as justificationAs of 2025 129 Tibet Class schools were operating across 23 provinces and 60 provinciallevel cities in China enrolling a total of 25000 Tibetan students IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/record-10-500-tibetan-students-enrol-for-tibet-classes-across-chinese-cities-659681.html Mon, 26 Jan 2026 01:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jampk-govt-appoints-coordination-and-liaison-officer-for-jampk-residentsstudents-in-iran-658469.html Jammu Jan 15 The JampK government on Thursday nominated a coordination and liaison officer with agencies concerned for residents and students of the UT presently residingstudying in Iran In view of the prevailing situation in Iran Anil Sharma JKAS Additional Resident Commissioner Jammu and Kashmir government New Delhi is hereby designated for coordination and liaison with the concerned agencies in respect of residents and students presently residingstudying in Iran an order issued by the General Administration Department saidThe officer shall coordinate and liaise with the Ministry of External Affairs Government of India and the concerned embassyconsular authorities and other relevant agencies as may be required to facilitate information sharing coordination and necessary interventions related to the safety welfare and travel facilitation of the related matters of the residentsstudents of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir in IranThere are dozens of students belonging to JampK studying different professional courses including MBBS in Iran In addition many pilgrims from JampK belonging to the Shia Muslim community are presently in Iran paying obeisance at places of reverenceJampK Chief Minister Omar Abdullah spoke to External Affairs Minister SJaishankar on the issueJust spoke to EAM DrSJaishankar ji about the evolving situation in Iran He shared his assessment of the ground situation amp the plans that the External Affairs Ministry is working on Iâm grateful for his assurance that all steps will be taken to safeguard the interests amp lives of students amp other people from JampK who are in Iran now Abdullah said in a post on XOpposition Peoples Democratic Party PDP President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also urged the Centre to ensure the safety of Indian residents and students presently in IranThousands of students from across the country including Kashmir are stranded in Iran amid the present volatile situation This has triggered deep fear and anxiety with anguished parents desperately worried about their childrenâs safety Urge DrSJaishankar and MEAIndia to intervene urgently and ensure their safe return she said in a post on X IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jampk-govt-appoints-coordination-and-liaison-officer-for-jampk-residentsstudents-in-iran-658469.html Fri, 16 Jan 2026 04:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-meets-indian-diaspora-in-luxembourg-lauds-their-valuable-contributions-657310.html Luxembourg City Jan 7 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar interacted with the members of the Indian community in Luxembourg appreciating their contributions in deepening ties between India and the European country Addressing the Indian community EAM Jaishankar underlined the growing expansion of IndiaLuxembourg partnership across several domains including political business and technologySharing the details of his meetings with Luxembourgâs leadership EAM saidâI would of course like to talk to you a little bit about the relationship and the larger context But before I do that I must also share with you at every one of these meetings starting with the Grand Duke with the Prime Minister with the Foreign Minister I heard very strong and very effusive words of praise for the Indian communityââWhen you hear that in a very natural way from your counterparts and from the authorities of the country youre visiting it really leaves you with a very good feeling The sense that in their eyes this is a community that has been very well integrated It is seen as very contributiveâ he addedEAM asserted that the partnership between India and Luxembourg holds significance for several reasonsHe noted that Luxembourg lies at the heart of the European Union and as one of its founding members wields great influence on the Union and its decisionmaking processEAM said that at a time when India is seeking to ramp up its engagement with the EU Luxembourgâs influence in Brussels over the collective decisionmaking assumes importanceâAnd I was given really the fullest assurance that as you know we are right now in a very advanced stage of negotiating a free trade agreement In other areas whether its technology defence connectivity or mobility there is a lot that is happening with the European Union But the influence of Luxembourg and I think the goodwill of Luxembourg in support of the relationship is something which will surely come into playâ he statedEarlier on Tuesday EAM Jaishankar called on the Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg and conveyed warm greetings from President Droupadi MurmuFollowing his meeting with the Grand Duke EAM took to X and posted Value his positive sentiments for India and for deepening our bilateral partnershipâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-meets-indian-diaspora-in-luxembourg-lauds-their-valuable-contributions-657310.html Wed, 07 Jan 2026 10:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indias-one-stop-centre-for-women-in-canada-now-operational-657345.html Toronto Jan 7 The One Stop Centre for Women OSCW recently established at the Consulate General of India in Canadas Toronto is now fully operational offering assistance to Indian women nationals in distress According to the Indian Consulate General the centre provides accessible support to women in Canada while fostering a safe inclusive environmentSpeaking to Canadian media outlet Radio Canada International Indian Acting Consul General in Toronto Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh highlighted that the centre aims to act as a bridge between Canadian and Indian authorities helping Indian women access legal financial and emotional assistanceWomen in Canada need legal financial and other forms of help in many cases including domestic violence dowry exploitation and many more This centre will help them provide these facilities Singh saidResponding to a question about the centres approach Singh said that while many organisations and institutions in Canada offer valuable assistance cultural and social barriers often prevent women from speaking openly leaving them without supportApart from permanent resident women of Indian origin living in Canada visitorsworkers or students can also access this centre he addedAsserting that the initiative is receiving a huge response Singh said that in just a few days since its launch more than a dozen women have already approached this centre with various concernsHe also stressed that the centre will provide financial assistance to women in needOn December 26 2025 the Consulate General of India in Toronto set up the OSCW to assist Indian women facing distress covering issues including domestic violence abuse family conflict abandonment exploitation and legal challengesThe One Stop Centre will provide coordinated beneficiarycentred assistance by connecting aggrieved women to timely and appropriate pathways of support including immediate counselling facilitation of psychosocial support and coordination of legal assistance and advice while helping women access relevant community and socialservice resources in Canada Entire intervention by the OSCW will be within the purview of Local Laws in Canada read a statement issued by the Indian Consulate General in Toronto IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indias-one-stop-centre-for-women-in-canada-now-operational-657345.html Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-female-students-from-telangana-die-in-us-road-accident-656099.html Hyderabad Dec 29 Two female students from Telangana were killed in a road accident in the United States as per information from their families here The students hailing from the Mahabubabad district of Telangana died when a car in which they were travelling plunged into a gorge in CaliforniaThe deceased have been identified as Pulakhandam Meghana Rani 25 and Kadiyala Bhavana 24They had gone to the US in 2023 to pursue a Masters in computers and were on a job hunt after completing their studiesAccording to information from their families the car met with an accident on Alabama Hills road at around 4 pm local time on Sunday while they were on a pleasure trip along with their friends A group of eight friends had gone to California in two carsThe car in which Rani and Bhavana were travelling with two others failed to navigate a curve veered off the road and plunged into a valley While Rani and Bhavana died on the spot two others were injuredRani was from Garla village while Bhavana was from Mulkanoor village in Mahabubabad Raniâs father Nageshwara Rao runs a MeeSeva centre at Garla while Bhavanaâs father is the deputy sarpanch of Mulkanoor villageThe news of the deaths came as a huge shock to their families The family members said they were waiting for them to settle downBoth students had completed an MS from the University of Dayton OhioThe families have urged the Centre and also the state government to help in bringing the mortal remains for the last ritesA GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds for the repatriation of Meghanas remains as her family is struggling to cover the expensesMeghana fondly known as Chikki had moved to the US with dreams and a heart full of love To those who knew her she was a kind vibrant soul who always put others first it saidHer sudden departure has left a void in our lives that can never be filled She was an Indian national unmarried and belonged to a lower middleclass family from Garla village Telangana India the page readsAny contribution no matter how small will help us give my sister a dignified farewell and will mean more to us than words can express it adds IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-female-students-from-telangana-die-in-us-road-accident-656099.html Mon, 29 Dec 2025 17:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-highlights-indias-stellar-achievements-while-addressing-diaspora-in-oman-654357.html Muscat Dec 18 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a large gathering of the Indian community in Omans capital on Thursday highlighted Indias stellar achievements in multiple sectors ranging from digital payment ecosystems including UPI to space mission including Gaganyaan and also spoke about how the countrys cultural heritage was marking its presence on the global stagenbspnbspPM Modi spoke about the countrys transformational growth and development in the past 11 years across multiple segments including infrastructure development manufacturing healthcare green growth and womens empowermentPrime Minister said that India is preparing itself for the 21st century through developing a worldclass innovation startup and Digital Public Infrastructure ecosystem Indias UPI which accounts for about 50 per cent of all digital payments made globally was a matter of pride and achievement the MEA said in a press notenbspThe Prime Minister also emphasized the growing footprint of the Indian community acknowledging their role in fostering better relations with foreign nationsThe large gathering at the community program in Muscat also included more than 700 students from various Indian schools This year holds special significance for Indian schools in Oman as they celebrate 50 years of their establishment in the countrynbspPM Modi thanked them for a warm and colorful welcome and stated that he was delighted to meet people from various parts of India settled in Oman and noted that diversity is the foundation of Indian culture a value which helps them assimilate in any society they form a part ofHe appreciated the community participating in the Bharat ko Janiye quiz in large numbers Emphasizing that knowledge has been at the center of IndiaOman ties he congratulated them on the completion of 50 years of Indian schools in the countrynbspPM Modi also conveyed his governments commitment to the welfare of the Indian diaspora stating that whenever and wherever they require help the government remains there to hold their handnbspHe further affirmed that the IndiaOman partnership was making itself futureready through AI collaboration digital learning innovation partnership and entrepreneurship exchange and also called upon the youth to dream big learn deep and innovate boldly so that they can contribute meaningfully to humanity https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-highlights-indias-stellar-achievements-while-addressing-diaspora-in-oman-654357.html Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/explained-india-oman-cepa-advances-new-era-of-economic-partnership-654399.html MuscatNew Delhi Dec 18 The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement CEPA between India and Oman offers unprecedented market access for Indian goods with zeroduty access on 9808 per cent of Omanâs tariff lines covering 9938 per cent of Indiaâs exports by value the government said on Thursday The CEPA secures unprecedented tariff concessions for India from Oman All major labourintensive sectors including gems and jewellery textiles leather footwear sports goods plastics furniture agricultural products engineering products pharmaceuticals medical devices and automobiles receive full tariff eliminationOut of the above immediate tariff elimination is being offered on 9796 per cent of tariff lines the Commerce Ministry said in a statementIndia is offering tariff liberalisation on 7779 per cent of its total tariff lines which covers 9481 per cent of Indiaâs imports from Oman by value For the products of export interest to Oman and which are sensitive to India the offer is mostly a tariffrate quota TRQ based tariff liberalisationTo safeguard its interest sensitive products have been kept in the exclusion category by India without offering any concessions especially agricultural products including dairy tea coffee rubber and tobacco products gold and silver bullion jewellery other labourintensive products such as footwear sports goods and scrap of many base metalsOmanâs substantial global services imports amount to 1252 billion with the share of Indias exports in Omans global imports basket as 531 per cent indicating significant untapped potential for Indian service providersOn Thursday India and Oman took a significant step in building a stronger economic partnership with the signing of CEPA under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi the statement saidCommerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Omanâs Minister of Commerce Industry and Investment Promotion Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef signed the agreementNearly 7 lakh Indian nationals reside in Oman including Indian merchant families with a presence of over 200â300 years contributing significantly to Omanâs economy and society Indian enterprises have built a strong presence in Oman with over 6000 Indian establishments operating across sectorsAnnual remittances of around 2 billion further reflect the depth of economic engagement Bilateral trade between India and Oman stands at over 10 billion with strong potential for expansion under the CEPA frameworkThe CEPA further provides for 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment FDI by Indian companies in major services sectors in Oman through commercial presence opening a wide avenue for Indiaâs services industry to expand operations in the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/explained-india-oman-cepa-advances-new-era-of-economic-partnership-654399.html Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-receives-warm-welcome-from-indian-community-in-jordan-653666.html Amman Dec 15 Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from members of the Indian community in Jordans capital Amman on Monday Carrying Indian flags and chanting Modi Modi along with Bharat Mata Ki Jai gave a rousing welcome to PM Modi as he arrived at his hotel in the Jordanian capital PM Modi greeted people and interacted with children who had gathered there to welcome him PM Modi witnessed a cultural performance as he arrived in AmmanDeeply touched by the warm welcome extended by the Indian community in Amman Their affection pride in Indiaâs progress and strong cultural bonds reflect the enduring connection between India and its diaspora Also grateful for the role the diaspora continues to play in strengthening IndiaJordan relations PM Modi posted on XPM Modi has expressed confidence that his visit to Jordan will boost bilateral linkages between two nations As he began his twoday visit to the nation PM Modi also expressed gratitude to his Jordanian counterpart Jafar Hassan for the warm welcome at airportLanded in Amman Thankful to Mr Jafar Hassan Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for the warm welcome at the airport I am sure this visit will boost bilateral linkages between our nations PM Modi posted on XIn a special gesture Jordanian PM Jafar Hassan welcomed PM Modi at the airport as he arrived in the country on a twoday visit at the invitation of King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein This fullfledged bilateral visit to Jordan is taking place after 37 yearsDuring the visit PM Modi will hold discussions with Jordans King where both leaders are expected to review the entire gamut of relations between India and Jordan and exchange perspectives on regional issuesâThe visit marking the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries presents an opportunity to further strengthen IndiaJordan bilateral engagement explore new avenues of collaboration for mutual growth and prosperity and reiterate our commitment to promote regional peace prosperity security and stabilityThis historic visit will mark 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries During my visit I will hold detailed discussions with His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein HE Mr Jafar Hassan Prime Minister of Jordan and will also look forward to engagements with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II In Amman I will also meet the vibrant Indian community who have made significant contributions to IndiaâJordan relations PM Modi said in his departure statement earlier in the dayThis is Prime Minister Modis first fullfledged bilateral visit to Jordan he had earlier transited through Jordan in February 2018 while on his way to the State of PalestineEven though it was a transit visit exceptional courtesies were accorded to him by His Majesty the King making it more than just a transit visit This the current full bilateral visit is taking place after an interval of 37 years India and Jordan share warm and friendly relations marked by mutual trust and goodwill The relationship spans across sectors including political economic defence and strong peopletopeople ties Ministry of External Affairs MEA Secretary South Neena Malhotra said ahead of the Prime Ministers visitOur bilateral relations are marked by strong understanding at the leadership level Since the last visit of His Majesty in 2018 both the leaders have met four times with the latest being on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Italy in June 2024 The leaders are in touch with each other telephonically as well and both the leaders also spoke recently in April 2025 after the ghastly Pahalgam terror attacks during which His Majesty condemned the terror attacks and said that terrorism should be rejected in all its forms and manifestations His Majesty also reiterated his support for Indias fight against terrorism and both countries have cooperated in counterterrorism including by Indias participation in the initiatives launched by His Majesty such as the Aqaba process she added IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-receives-warm-welcome-from-indian-community-in-jordan-653666.html Mon, 15 Dec 2025 19:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-community-hailed-as-economic-bridge-amid-sharp-immigration-concerns-652730.html Washington Dec 11 The vital role of Indian Americans in strengthening the USâIndia partnership took centre stage during a Congressional hearing even as lawmakers sharply criticised the Trump administrations policies affecting visas immigration pathways and bilateral goodwill During the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asias hearing on the USâIndia strategic partnership on Wednesday local time Committee Chairman Bill Huizenga said more than 5 million Indian Americans contribute to the American economyâ They serve in our military they lead major companies describing the diaspora as a living bridge of shared values democratic principles and economic opportunityHe submitted a letter from the IndoAmerican Chamber of Commerce praising the hearing and reinforcing that the relationship is not just a diplomatic one but rather a living bridgeDhruva Jaishankar from ORF America provided detailed economic metrics noting that Indianorigin investors entrepreneurs students doctors and researchers contribute over 200 billion to the US economy and support at least 830000 American jobs in every one of the 50 states and territoriesBut the hearing also delivered blunt warnings Rep Sydney KamlagerDove condemned the administrations imposition of a 100000 fee on H1B visas 70 per cent of which are held by Indians calling it a rebuke of the incredible contributions Indians have made to Americas scientific and economic success She said such measures attack the peopletopeople ties between the US and IndiaRep Pramila Jayapal the first Indian American woman in the US Congress told the panel that legal immigration pathways are being shut down recalling her own journey on a student visa and later an H1B She said she is hearing from constituents about rising antiIndian hate adding that Indian Americans are extremely important to our economy an integral part of our societyâ leading cuttingedge research to save livesJayapal warned that tariffs and visa restrictions could push India closer to forums like BRICS and the SCO She said Indian businesses in her state report that the tariff increases represent the greatest threat to their business in over 120 yearsSameer Lalwani told lawmakers that hostility toward Indian students technologists and scientists could harm US innovation itself I would worry a little bit about the deterrence of students scientists and Indian businessesâ that we have encountered on our own technological prowess he saidThe testimony made clear that beyond defence and geopolitics the Indian American community remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation and one of the most vulnerable to political decisions in Washington IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-community-hailed-as-economic-bridge-amid-sharp-immigration-concerns-652730.html Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/over-18-lakh-indians-studying-abroad-violations-of-visa-norms-among-key-reasons-for-deportations-govt-651508.html New Delhi Dec 4 Over 1882 lakh Indian students are currently studying in foreign countries with the highest numbers in the UAE 253 lakh Canada 427 lakh the US 255 lakh Australia 196 lakh and the UK 173 lakh the Parliament was informed on Thursday The data presented in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh showed that students are spread across 153 countries from major education hubs to smaller destinations such as Armenia Georgia Kyrgyzstan and Cyprus and others which together host hundreds of Indian medical aspirantsThe ministry also disclosed countrywise figures of students deported or denied entry over the last five yearsThe UK deported 170 students the US deported 45 and denied entry to 62 while Australia deported 114Other countries where Indians were deported include Russia 82 Ukraine 13 Georgia 17 Finland 5 and Egypt 2 Kyrgyzstan denied entry to 11 students while no deportations were recorded from thereThe minister stated that deportations primarily result from violations of visa norms including taking up illegal employment engaging in unpermitted business activities failing to maintain mandatory financial balances nonpayment of university fees poor attendance or withdrawing from academic programmesSeveral students were denied entry for incomplete admission documents failing to meet university enrolment requirements or inability to answer basic questions about their chosen coursesThe minister underlined that the MEA places a high priority on safeguarding the interests of Indian students abroadMissions maintain regular contact with students hold interactions at universities and issue advisories warning against fraudulent or unaccredited coursesSimilarly the reply also highlights the advisories issued by the Ministry to safeguard Indian students from misleading foreign educational courses in countries including Tajikistan Suriname Finland Latvia Egypt Canada China Malta Ireland Uzbekistan and othersThe reply notes mechanisms such as MADAD portal registration 24Ã7 helplines open houses email and social media outreach along with the use of the Indian Community Welfare Fund to assist students in distressThe ministry also cited recent evacuation efforts â including Operation Ganga Ukraine Operation Kaveri Sudan Operation Ajay Israel Operation Devi Shakti Afghanistan and Operation Sindhu Israel and Iranâ to underline its commitment to the safety of Indian nationals especially students during crises abroad IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/over-18-lakh-indians-studying-abroad-violations-of-visa-norms-among-key-reasons-for-deportations-govt-651508.html Fri, 05 Dec 2025 03:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-community-steps-up-for-relief-efforts-in-hurricane-hit-jamaica-648778.html Kingston Nov 15 Reaffirming Indias solidarity with Jamaica members of the Indian community in Kingston visited affected communities in St Elizabeth Parish of the Caribbean nation and assisted in the recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa The High Commission of India in Kingston appreciated the Indian community for raising over 32 million dollars for immediate relief and for their tireless efforts in preparing and delivering 550 care packages stoves clothes bags and hygiene kits etc to the affected households in St Elizabeth Westmoreland and Black RiverIndia stands in solidarity with Jamaica for relief recovery and reconstruction efforts The compassion and solidarity shown by the Indian community reflect the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam the world is one family the Indian High Commission in Kingston posted on X on SaturdayThe Indian community team led by Gul Mansukhani was joined by the Indian High Commissioner to Jamaica Mayank Joshi and Jamaican Minister of Agriculture Fisheries and Mining Floyd GreenLast week India delivered 20 tonnes of Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief HADR materials to Jamaica to support recovery efforts following Hurricane MelissaThe consignment from the Government of India which arrived in Kingston aboard a C17 aircraft of the Indian Air Force IAF was handed over to the Jamaican GovernmentIndia is committed to assistance to Jamaica and partners in the Global South in times of need the Indian High Commission in Kingston posted on XThe relief materials include special Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri BHISHM medical trauma Unit generators tents bedding and mats kitchen kits solar lanterns hygiene kits and other essential supplies to support posthurricane recoveryThe HADR operations main feature was the BHISHM modular trauma kit consisting of 72 boxes of modular medical and surgical kits stacked together as a cube The BHISHM modular trauma kit cube is developed in India to provide fieldlevel firstline emergency medical support IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-community-steps-up-for-relief-efforts-in-hurricane-hit-jamaica-648778.html Sat, 15 Nov 2025 13:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/govts-new-bill-has-potential-to-get-better-deal-for-indians-working-overseas-648451.html New Delhi Nov 13 The Governmentâs proposed Overseas Mobility Facilitation and Welfare Bill 2025 holds the potential for getting a better deal for Indiaâs talented skilled workers and professionals and also ensuring that they return home to their country of birth after finishing their work stints abroad This would strengthen the acceptance of Indian workers overseas amid the growing backlash against immigration in advanced countries such as the US According to an article in The Diplomat âThe new Bill represents Indiaâs attempt to reimagine labour mobility as a cornerstone of economic diplomacyââThe new Bill signals a paradigm shift Rather than passively watching its workforce scatter India is now actively negotiating the terms of their mobility Since 2014 New Delhi has signed labour mobility agreements with at least 20 countries across Europe Asia and the Persian GulfThe proposed legislation would replace the outdated Emigration Act of 1983 with a comprehensive framework that doesnât just facilitate overseas employment â it ensures workersâ safe and orderly return and reintegration of returneesâ the article statesThis is a recognition of a hard truth that while developed economies have shrinking populations and few workers countries like India have stable populations but few jobs Migration which seems like an optimal solution cannot work anymore due to the political cost of the backlash to immigration Indiaâs solution is exporting labour with an expiration date the article further statesWhile Indiaâs greatest asset is over 600 million people below the age of 25 developed countries face an acute labour shortage with ageing populations A Boston Consulting Group study estimated a global shortfall of 4550 million workers by 2030 up from just 5 million in 2023 the article points outIt also cites the examples of Germany and Japan actively seeking Indian workersThe article further highlights that the Indian government is actively pursuing agreements with host nations to maximise national benefits The IndiaUK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement CETA exempts Indian workers temporarily posted in the United Kingdom from paying British social security contributions for up to three years which will bring an estimated savings of Rs 4000 crore annually for Indian firmsThe new Bill can further create convergence between different governments create mechanisms to oversee international migration agreements and develop datadriven policy management Most importantly it focusses on creating frameworks for incentivising the protection and promotion of emigrantsâ welfare it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/govts-new-bill-has-potential-to-get-better-deal-for-indians-working-overseas-648451.html Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/11-from-tgana-among-270-indians-repatriated-from-thailand-647428.html Hyderabad Nov 7 Eleven people from Telangana are among 270 Indian nationals repatriated from Thailand after fleeing Myanmar following a military raid on cybercrime hubs The Indian citizens arrived in Delhi by a special Indian Air Force IAF flight on Thursday nightThe Telangana government said the group of 11 people were handed over to the Telangana Bhavan authorities in New Delhi after due investigation and verification by the concerned central government officialsThe Telangana government officials immediately took steps to provide them temporary accommodation They also made arrangements for their travel to HyderabadAccording to the state government these people were trapped in cybercrime camps in Myawaddy Myanmar and returned home todayThese citizens are from districts like Hyderabad Karimnagar and WarangalThese rescued Indians were victims of organised cyber fraud networks which had lured them with the promise of highpaying jobs They were later held captive and forced to engage in illegal online activities This repatriation is in continuation with the earlier rescue operations undertaken by the government of India to bring back Indian nationals trapped in such fraudulent setups across the MyanmarThailand border region said an official statementThe government of Telangana through Telangana Bhavan Delhi has made all necessary arrangements in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs and other concerned agencies to provide temporary accommodation essential support and safe transportation back to HyderabadTwo special flights operated by the Indian Air Force flew back 270 Indian nationals including 26 women from Chiang Mai in Thailand to Hindon airbase in Uttar Pradesh These individuals were among hundreds of international workers who were forced to leave the cyberscam centres that were operating out of Myawaddy taking advantage of the lax cyber infrastructure of MyanmarThe Indian investigating agencies reportedly gathered details from these people as to how they ended up there and what all activities they were participating in IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/11-from-tgana-among-270-indians-repatriated-from-thailand-647428.html Fri, 07 Nov 2025 23:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/keralas-milma-signs-mou-to-export-dairy-products-to-australia-new-zealand-646932.html Thiruvananthapuram Nov 5 The Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation KCMMF popularly known as Milma on Wednesday signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding MoU to export its products to Australia and New Zealand expanding its overseas footprint beyond the Gulf markets Milma the brand name of the Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation is a leading dairy cooperative known for its wide range of highquality milk and milk productsFounded to support dairy farmers Milma ensures fair returns to producers while maintaining strong consumer trust in quality and ethical sourcingThe agreement was signed here by KCMMF Managing Director Asif K Yusuf RG Foods Executive Director Vishnu G and Midnightsun Global proprietor Bindu Ganesh Kumar in the presence of Milma Chairman K S ManiUnder the MoU RG Foods will handle the complete logistics chain from product pickup at Milmas facilities to transportation customs clearance and freight forwarding while ensuring compliance with the import laws of the destination countriesMidnightsun Global will act as a coordinating partner to facilitate operations and execution without holding ownership rights over the productsCalling the agreement a milestone in Milmas overseas market outreach Mani said the brands products have already gained strong acceptance in major Gulf countries particularly among nonresident Keralites NRKsBoth Australia and New Zealand have sizeable NRK populations making them promising markets for Milmas products he addedYusuf said the first phase of exports will include paneer payasam mix and dairy whitener with plans to expand the range in future phases Milma will manufacture and package products in compliance with the specifications and international quality standards set under the agreementAccording to the terms RG Foods will bear all expenses related to logistics customs and distribution along with all associated export and transit risksMani also noted that the biggest beneficiaries of Milmas market expansion are its member dairy farmers with the cooperative passing on 925 per cent of its profits to farmers last yearMilma has reported a consolidated turnover of Rs 4327 crore for FY 202425 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/keralas-milma-signs-mou-to-export-dairy-products-to-australia-new-zealand-646932.html Thu, 06 Nov 2025 02:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tgana-cm-congratulates-hyderabad-born-ghazala-hashmi-on-election-as-virginia-lt-governor-646952.html Hyderabad Nov 5 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday congratulated Democratic Party leader Ghazala Hashmi on her election as the Lt Governor of Virginia The Chief Minister noted that Senator Ghazala Hashmi who was born in Hyderabad and later settled in the US holds a doctorate in international affairsHe conveyed his best wishes to her for continued success and many more accomplishments in her public service careerGhazala Hashmi scripted history by winning the Virginia Lt Governor race as she became the first Indianorigin Muslim woman to hold the postSix years after making history with her election as Virginia state senator the 61yearold Democrat set another record by defeating Republican John Reid in the Virginia lieutenant gubernatorial raceShe also became the first Muslim and South Asian American to be elected to the postBharat Rashtra Samithi BRS working president and former Telangana minister K T Rama Rao has hailed Ghazala Hashmis election as Lieutenant Governor of VirginiaThis is massive From Malakpet to Virginia Congratulations to Ghazala Hashmi on becoming the first IndianAmerican Lieutenant Governor of Virginia There is nothing more beautiful when democracies celebrate diversity of the world Rama Rao posted on XGhazala Firdous Hashmi was born in Hyderabad in 1964 to Tanveer and Zia Hashmi She lived at her maternal grandparents home in Malakpet area here during her childhoodWhen she was four years old she along with her mother and older brother moved to the United States joining her father who was then pursuing a PhD in international relations in Georgia and beginning his university teaching career according to the profile on her websiteShe attended the Marvin Pittman Laboratory School at Georgia Southern University where both her father and uncle taught in the political science departmentGhazala earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Georgia Southern University and her PhD in American literature from Emory University in AtlantaGhazala and her husband Azhar moved to the Richmond area in 1991 and she spent nearly 30 years as a professor first teaching at the University of Richmond and then at Reynolds Community College where she founded and led the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning CETLIn November 2019 she was elected to Virginia state senate defeating incumbent Republican senator Glen Sturtevant She became the first MuslimAmerican woman and also the first IndianAmerican to enter Virginia state senate IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tgana-cm-congratulates-hyderabad-born-ghazala-hashmi-on-election-as-virginia-lt-governor-646952.html Thu, 06 Nov 2025 03:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/hinduja-group-chairman-gopichand-hinduja-passes-away-in-london-hospital-646528.html New Delhi Nov 4 IANS Hinduja Group Chairman Gopichand P Hinduja passed away in a London hospital on Tuesday He was 85nbspKnown as GP in business circles he took over as Chairman of the Hinduja Group following the death of his elder brother Srichand in May 2023 He is survived by his wife Sunita sons Sanjay and Dheeraj and daughter RitanbspThe 2025 edition of the Sunday Times Rich List recently ranked Gopichand Hindujas family the richest in the UK with a net worth of 323 billion poundsGopichand Hinduja joined the family business in 1950 and is credited with transforming the company from an IndoMiddle East trading operation into a transnational conglomerate His other two brothers are Prakash Hinduja and Ashok HindujanbspA graduate from Bombay Jai Hind College Gopichand held honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Westminster and Richmond College according to the companys websitenbspThe Hinduja Group has businesses in eleven sectors including automotive banking and finance IT healthcare real estate power and media and entertainment Some of its wellknown brands include Ashok Leyland IndusInd Bank and NXTDIGITAL LimitedWhile Prakash Hinduja has been involved in managing the groups operations in Europe Ashok Hinduja the youngest brother oversees the groups interests in IndianbspThe Hinduja Group made a major decision to enter the Indian automobile sector with the purchase of heavy commercial vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland in 1987 which is now their flagship company in the Indian automobile sector This move was considered the first big NRI investment in India at the timeThe Hinduja family made headlines in 2021 for a feud that reached a London courtroom Srichand Hindujas daughter Vinoo and Shanu accused their three uncles of cutting them out of funding and decisionmaking At the time Srichand Hinduja known as SP was suffering from dementianbspResponding to their nieces allegations Gopichand Prakash and Ashok cited an agreement the four brothers made back in 2013 that everything belongs to everyone and nothing belongs to anyone https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/hinduja-group-chairman-gopichand-hinduja-passes-away-in-london-hospital-646528.html Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/people-in-mauritius-australia-celebrate-chhath-puja-with-vibrant-festivities-645201.html Port Louis Oct 28 Chhath Puja was celebrated across Mauritius and Australia on Tuesday with utmost devotion and festivities as people marked the conclusion of the fourday auspicious festival One of the most significant Hindu festivals Chhath Puja is primarily observed in Bihar Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh It is also celebrated in parts of Nepal and among Indian communities worldwideIndian High Commissioner to Mauritius Anurag Srivastava on Tuesday joined in the Chhath Mahaparv celebrationThe event organised by the Swastikam Foundation in Mauritius was attended by Mauritian President Dharambeer Gokhool Members of Parliament and several other dignitariesAddressing the event Srivasata underscored the Indian governments efforts to have Chhath Puja included in UNESCOs Intangible Cultural Heritage listHe also emphasised the festivals role in promoting environmental sustainability gender participation and social inclusionMeanwhile in Australias Melbourne the Indian diaspora came out to celebrate the auspicious occasionThe Indian Consul General in Melbourne Sushil Kumar local dignitaries including MP Lee Tarlamis and community members participated in the vibrant Chhath Puja celebrations and paid homage to the Sun GodThe event featured special cultural performances by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations ICCRsponsored troupe led by Nitu Kumari Nootan showcasing the rich traditions of Bihar Jharkhand and Uttar PradeshAccording to the Hindu calendar Chhath Puja falls on the sixth day Shashthi Tithi of the Kartik months Shukla Paksha usually occurring six days after Diwali The celebration spans four days beginning with Nahay Khay and concluding with Usha Arghya the offering of prayers to the rising sunThe festival commences with Nahay Khay October 25 when devotees take a holy dip and prepare a simple meal On the second day Kharna October 26 a daylong fast from morning to evening is observed and later concluded with offerings of rasiya sweet porridge and roti The third day marks Sandhya Arghya when the nirjala vrat fast without water begins continuing until the early hours of the fourth day Usha ArghyaChhath Puja is believed to have originated in ancient times According to legend Lord Rama and Goddess Sita performed the first Chhath Puja after their return to Ayodhya to seek blessings from the Sun God for prosperity IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/people-in-mauritius-australia-celebrate-chhath-puja-with-vibrant-festivities-645201.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-ambassador-to-us-extends-diwali-greetings-to-citizens-diaspora-644964.html Washington Oct 26 Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra spoke exclusively to IANS extending Diwali wishes to Indian citizens and members of the diaspora community He made the remarks on Saturday during a special Diwali celebration hosted at his residence for members of the Indian diaspora in Washington DCIt gives me great pleasure on my behalf and on my Embassys behalf to wish everybody a very very warm healthy prosperous Diwali At the onset of festive season its a great time of the year and should bring the best of blessings health prosperity to you and your family members and your loved ones he told IANSEarlier Ambassador Kwatra addressed the diaspora members and praised the communitys positive role in strengthening the IndiaUS relationshipOn Thursday Ambassador Kwatra took part in Diwali celebrations at the World Bank accompanied by members of the Indian community in Washington DCHe posted on X Celebrated Diwali with friends of India at the World Bank It is always a delight to join in celebrations with the strong community of Indian and Indian origin diaspora who work at the World Bank and IMFThe special gathering was also attended by World Bank President Ajay Banga and other leading members of the diasporaOn Tuesday Ambassador Kwatra attended a special Diwali event at the White House where US President Donald Trump extended his warmest wishes to the people of IndiaTrump lit the diya in the Oval Office calling it a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darknessThe Indian Ambassador thanked President Trump for opening up the White House to mark the festival of DiwaliYou are showcasing the strength of diversity through this celebration So its truly a great honour On behalf of my Prime Minister and my own behalf wish you and your loved ones a very very happy Diwali greetings particularly to over five millionstrong Indian diaspora in the US and I close by making a wish which is only we do for Diwali We wish that the light of Diwali continues to shine on your success and on the strength of India he notedThe White House event was also attended by the new US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor FBI Director Kash Patel and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi GabbardLeading business leaders from the Indian diaspora were also part of the celebrationsAmbassador Kwatra later posted on X Deeply honoured to join President Donald J Trump at the White House today to celebrate Diwali Wished him on behalf of Prime Minister narendramodi a Happy Diwali and thanked him for this beautiful gesture IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-ambassador-to-us-extends-diwali-greetings-to-citizens-diaspora-644964.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 01:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kenya-envoys-of-india-and-somalia-discuss-bilateral-cooperation-644618.html Nairobi Oct 23 Indias High Commissioner to Kenya Adarsh Swaika met Somalias Ambassador to Kenya Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle on Thursday discussing bilateral cooperation During the meeting Adarsh Swaika and Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle also spoke on developments in Kenya The meeting between two officials comes a week after Minister of State for External Affairs MoS Kirti Vardhan Singh met State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Somalia Ali Mohamed Omar on the sidelines of the 19th MidTerm Ministerial of the NonAligned Movement NAM hosted by UgandaHC Adarsh Swaika met with HE Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle Ambassador of Somalia to Kenya HC discussed bilateral cooperation matters between India and Somalia pursuant to the recent bilateral Ministerial meeting on sidelines of NAM midterm Ministerial meeting in Kampala HC exchanged views on developments in Kenya Indian High Commission in Kenya posted on XEarlier in the day Adarsh Swaika offered prayers at BAPS Temple on the occasion of Gujarati New Year Bestu Varas in Nairobi The Indian High Commission in Kenya noted that the BAPS Temple in Nairobi is the largest BAPS Temple in AfricaHC AdarshSwaika1 joined the devotees at BAPS temple in Nairobi in offering prayers and Aarti on the auspicious occasion of Gujarati New Year Bestu Varas BAPS temple in Mombasa was the first BAPS Mandir outside India while the one in Nairobi stands as the largest BAPS temple in Africa Indian High Commission in Kenya wrote on XIndian High Commission in Kenya also thanked Kenyan President William Ruto for his wishes on the occasion of Diwali In response to Rutos wishes on X the Indian High Commission wrote High Commission of India expresses its deep gratitude to Honble President of Kenya William Samoei Ruto for his warm Diwali greetings May the Indian festival of lights continue to illuminate the enduring bond of friendship between India and KenyaDiwali symbolises the spiritual victory of good over evil light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance It was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the world on Monday reflecting Indias vibrant cultural heritage and conveying the universal message of unity and harmonyOn Wednesday Adarsh Swaika met Tanzanias High Commissioner to Kenya Bernard Y Kibesse and noted that the ties between two nations are multifaceted and growing from strengthtostrengthIn a post on X Indian High Commission in Kenya wrote Glad to meet HE Dr Bernard Y Kibesse High Commissioner of Tanzania to Kenya Thank him for sharing his insights on Kenya and its bilateral relations with Tanzania IndiaTanzania relations are multifaceted and growing from strength to strength IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kenya-envoys-of-india-and-somalia-discuss-bilateral-cooperation-644618.html Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-embassy-presents-books-to-slovak-radio-and-television-library-644607.html Bratislava Oct 23 The Indian Embassy in Slovakia on Thursday presented a collection of books to the Slovak Television and Radio Library in Bratislava for creating an India Corner The Embassy of India presented a diverse collection of books to the Slovak Television amp Radio Library in Bratislava to create an India corner enriching its collection with volumes on Indian Architecture Culture Music Politics etc Indian Embassy in Slovakia posted on XOn Wednesday members of Indian community participated in Diwali celebrations organised by Indian Embassy in Slovakia in collaboration with Mareena Organisation and the Indian diasporaIn a statement shared on X Indian Embassy in Slovakia stated Embassy of India in collaboration with Mareena Organisation and the Indian diaspora organized Diwali celebrations in Kosice The event brought together the community to celebrate the spirit of light joy and unityOn October 21 Indian Embassy participated in the Asian Day celebrations held in Slovakia showcasing the rich cultural heritage and diversity of India While addressing the event Indias Ambassador to Slovakia Apoorva Srivastava highlighted the timeless legacy of Indian civilization and the strength of Indias unity in diversityDuring the event a One District One Product ODOP stall was set up to promote unique Indian handicrafts and traditional products from various parts of IndiaWhile sharing glimpses from the event on X Indian Embassy in Slovakia wrote Ambassador Apoorva Srivastava addressed the gathering highlighting the timeless legacy of Indian civilization the strength of Indias unity in diversity and the remarkable transformation taking place in IndiaAn ODOP stall was set up to promote unique Indian handicrafts and traditional products from various regions of India Indian food stall offering authentic flavours was also a major attraction receiving an enthusiastic response from visitors the embassy wrote in another post on X IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-embassy-presents-books-to-slovak-radio-and-television-library-644607.html Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-paul-kapur-sworn-in-as-us-assistant-secretary-for-south-and-central-asia-644422.html Washington Oct 23 IndianAmerican security expert Paul Kapur was officially sworn in as the Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs marking a key appointment of the Trump administration for the region The State Department Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs posted on Wednesday on X Welcome to StateSCA Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur This morning Dr Kapur was officially sworn in as the Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian AffairsKapur succeeds Donald Lu who served as Assistant Secretary from September 2021 through January 2025Kapur previously served from 2020 to 2021 on the State Departments Policy Planning Staff where he worked on issues related to South and Central Asia IndoPacific strategy and IndiaUS relationsHe has also led the IndiaUS Track 15 dialogue and other strategic defence engagements between the two countriesHe is a visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution and a professor at the US Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey CaliforniaIn early October Kapur was confirmed by a Senate vote along with the new US Ambassador to India Sergio GorDuring his Senate confirmation hearing in June Kapur said his career has come full circle having studied the region academically and now stepping into a leading diplomatic roleI cant avoid the feeling of having come full circle I was born in New Delhi to an Indian father and an American mother Although I visited India often during my childhood I grew up in the United States as a thoroughly American kid never imagining that my career would someday return me to the place where I was born he addedOn US ties with India Kapur asserted that the two countries share a host of common interestsThe United States and India share a host of common interests ensuring a free and open IndoPacific region which is not dominated by China expanding bilateral trade building our economic relationship so that it is more symmetrical and profitable facilitating technology sharing and innovation and ensuring access to the energy necessary to fuel our economies he notedOn Pakistan he said that he would pursue security cooperation where beneficial to US interestsThe bureau plays a crucial role in shaping US policy on security economic engagement counterterrorism and infrastructure development in the broader South and Central Asia region IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-paul-kapur-sworn-in-as-us-assistant-secretary-for-south-and-central-asia-644422.html Thu, 23 Oct 2025 03:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/university-of-mauritius-celebrates-diwali-with-vibrant-people-to-people-ties-on-display-644520.html Port Louis Oct 23 Reaffirming the longstanding friendship between India and Mauritius a Diwali celebration was organised by students at the Work Club of the University of Mauritius A Diwali celebration was organised by the students of the University of Mauritius reaffirming the longstanding friendship between India and MauritiusIndian High Commissioner to Mauritius Anurag Srivastava participated in the event and also extended heartfelt greetings to the people present reflecting on the festivals deeper meaningAccording to the Indian High Commission in Port Louis addressing the event Srivastava spoke about the enduring bond between India and Mauritius calling it two nations in name one family in spiritEmphasising the strong educational ties the Indian High Commissioner highlighted various opportunities to connect with India including fully funded scholarships at undergraduate postgraduate and doctoral levels cultural immersion programmes like the Know India Programme KIP and the Overseas Citizen of India OCI card for persons of Indian originHe encouraged students to pursue excellence with purpose reminding them that they are the torchbearers of the unique relationship between the two countriesCelebrating the occasion the students also organised various cultural activities showcasing the shared cultural heritage and vibrant peopletopeople linkages between India and Mauritius the Indian High Commission mentionedLast month during his visit to India Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam held delegationlevel talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi underscoring the shared vision for peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region IOR and for the Global SouthBoth sides comprehensively reviewed the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between the two countries and identified new opportunities to deepen collaboration across various sectors of mutual interestHailing the historical bilateral ties PM Modi stated that India and Mauritius are two nations but their dreams and destiny remain oneWhile addressing a joint press meet alongside Ramgoolam PM Modi announced Indias special economic package for Mauritius that supports the infrastructure employment and healthcare sectorsPM Ramgoolam also lauded Indias continuous assistance over the years highlighting that the country has benefited from Indias expertise in key sectors of national development including health education and capacitybuildingOver the years India through its various governments has accompanied Mauritius in its journey toward progress and developmentWe have benefited from Indias generous assistance and expertise in key sectors of national development Indias timely support in these areas continues to make a tangible difference in improving the quality of life of Mauritians said Ramgoolam IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/university-of-mauritius-celebrates-diwali-with-vibrant-people-to-people-ties-on-display-644520.html Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bhutan-pm-israeli-foreign-ministry-extends-warm-wishes-on-diwali-644047.html Thimphu Oct 20 Bhutans Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay on Monday shared heartfelt greetings on Diwali wishing that the festival of lights would usher in hope harmony and new beginnings In a post on X the Bhutanese PM said Wishing everyone a bright and joyful Diwali filled with love laughter and togetherness May the light of this festival guide us towards hope harmony and new beginningsMeanwhile Israel also extended warm wishes on the occasion calling for peace renewal and hope as millions across India celebrate the victory of light over darknessMay the lights of Diwali shine both on homes and on hearts From Jerusalem to Delhi and far beyond may this festival of lights inspire us all to keep faith in a brighter tomorrow Wishing all our friends in India a blessed amp peaceful Diwali the Israeli Foreign Ministry posted on XSeveral Indian diplomatic missions worldwide celebrated Diwali reflecting Indias vibrant cultural heritage and conveying the universal message of unity and harmonyIn Japan students faculty and members of the Indian community at the Kagoshima University along with friends of India and supported by the Indian Embassy in Tokyo Kagoshima Universitys Global Centre Foreign Students Association and International Association came together to celebrate the festival of lights as part of Diwali Celebrations in Japanese UniversitiesAddressing the event in a video message R Madhu Sudan Charge dAffaires at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo highlighted the growing friendship and cultural exchanges between India and JapanIndian students and faculty across universities in Japan are celebrating the festival of lights symbolising the enduring bond of friendship between our two nations the Embassy posted on XFurthermore the Indian High Commissioner to Cyprus Manish and his High Commission team conveyed warm greetings and best wishes to all members of the Indian community and friends of India in Cyprus on the joyous occasion of DiwaliAs India and Cyprus continue to strengthen their partnership may this Festival of Lights illuminate our hearts and homes with happiness peace and prosperity and further brighten the bonds of friendship and goodwill between our two nations the Indian High Commission in Cyprus posted on XAdditionally Indian Consul General in Shanghai Pratik Mathur together with the Indian Association in Shanghai organised the largest ever Diwali celebration in the Eastern China RegionOver 800 guests from the Indian diaspora together with the local community and the consular corps together participated in the Laxmi Puja followed by a scintillating cultural performance and a raffle draw The Indian food and delicacies served on the occasion were particularly appreciated by the foreign guestsSpeaking on the occasion Consul General Mathur underlined the special cultural significance of Diwali in bringing together the diaspora and helping to build strong cultural bridges IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bhutan-pm-israeli-foreign-ministry-extends-warm-wishes-on-diwali-644047.html Mon, 20 Oct 2025 17:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-missions-across-globe-celebrate-diwali-showcasing-rich-cultural-heritage-643751.html Tokyo Oct 18 Indian diplomatic missions worldwide on Saturday celebrated Diwali the festival of lights reflecting Indias vibrant cultural heritage and conveying the universal message of unity and harmony In Japan students faculty and members of the Indian community along with friends of India came together to celebrate Diwali at Shimane UniversityAddressing the celebration in a video message R Madhu Sudan Charge dAffaires Embassy of India in Tokyo highlighted the growing friendship and cultural exchange between India and JapanVice President of the university Yoshimi Kataoka also addressed the gatheringAccording to the Indian Embassy in Tokyo several Indian students and faculty across universities in Japan are celebrating Diwali symbolising the enduring bond of friendship between the two nationsMeanwhile spreading the spirit of Diwali across borders the Myanmar India Friendship Association and Indian diaspora organisations came together to celebrate Diwali at the National Theatre in Yangon on Friday evening showcasing Indias rich diversity and the message of unity harmony and brotherhoodAdditionally in Hungary as part of a lecture series Hungarian students learning Hindi at the Amrita SherGil Cultural Centre in the Indian Embassy in Budapest came together to celebrate the vibrant festival of DiwaliThrough an engaging lecture and brief cultural performances the event showcased the richness of Indian traditions lighting up the evening with learning joy and togetherness A beautiful exchange of cultures and celebration of the Festival of Lights the Embassy of India in Budapest posted on XIn Fiji the Police Headquarters in the capital city Suva celebrated Diwali calling for renewed commitment to justiceThe celebration underscored the vital role of the IndoFijian and Indian community which constitutes an important part of Fijis population and diasporaFurthermore in Dubai the Indian Consul General Satish Sivan joined the inauguration of the Diwali Festival at Al Seef extending warm wishes to the Indian Diaspora IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-missions-across-globe-celebrate-diwali-showcasing-rich-cultural-heritage-643751.html Sat, 18 Oct 2025 12:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-delegation-meets-diaspora-in-new-york-lauds-its-contributions-to-bilateral-ties-642483.html New York Oct 11 Around 90 members of the IndianAmerican community joined the parliamentary delegation led by BJP MP PP Chaudhary for an interactive session in New York The delegation lauded the diasporas contributions to the USIndia partnership and for promoting India in various meaningful waysThe parliamentarians also welcomed the IndianAmerican community to be part of the Viksit Bharat 2047 journeyThe Indianorigin US Senators Raj Mukherji and Vin Gopal also participated in the discussions organised by the Consulate General of India in New YorkThe 12member parliamentary delegation led by Chaudhary including N K Premachandran Nishikant Dubey Poonamben Maadam Vivek Tankha Brijesh Chowta Vamsi Gaddam Bharat Mathukumilli Rajeev Rai Phangnon Konyak Medha Kulkarni and Ujjwal Deorao Nikam is in New York to represent Indias stance at the United Nations General AssemblyDuring the visit the delegates met the Permanent Representative of Jamaica Ambassador Brian CM WallaceThey discussed various topics of importance at the UN including UN Security Council reforms They noted that diaspora forms a key pillar of the close ties between India and Jamaica Permanent Mission of India to UN posted on X on SaturdayFurthermore the delegation also met Amandeep Singh Gill the UN Secretary Generals envoy on TechnologyThey held an insightful discussion on AI governance Digital Public Infrastructure DPI data protection and the role of the UN in fostering inclusive technology developmentThe meeting also highlighted Indias leadership in DPI and inclusive innovationEarlier on Friday MP Poonamben Maadam delivered Indias remarks at the Interactive Dialogue in the Third Committee on Advancement of WomenShe emphasised the centrality of ASHA workers in Indias community health programme and efforts by the Government to strengthen their social securityShe reiterated Indias continued focus on and commitment to the cause of womens empowermentAdditionally MP Ujjwal Nikam delivered Indias statement in the Sixth Committee on Criminal Accords of UN Officials and Experts on MissionHe said that both member states and the UN must comply with their respective responsibilities in this regard He also highlighted the importance of contributing towards a trust fund for victimsOn the other hand MP Bharat Mathukumilli presented Indias position in the Second Committee on Information and Communications Technologies ICT for Sustainable Development and Globalisation and InterdependenceHe highlighted Indias focus on ICTs science and culture as enablers for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals He also underlined the need for tailored cooperation with middleincome countries to address their unique challenges IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-delegation-meets-diaspora-in-new-york-lauds-its-contributions-to-bilateral-ties-642483.html Sat, 11 Oct 2025 12:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ls-speaker-om-birla-interacts-with-diaspora-in-barbados-highlights-indias-achievements-642352.html Bridgetown Oct 10 Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla interacted with the Indian community in Barbados on Friday urging them to become strategic partners in the growth story of India He lauded the contribution of Indian diaspora members calling them Indias ambassadors who bridge hearts across continents In his address to the gathering Birla highlighted Indias achievements Chandrayaan3 digital payments AI and vaccine diplomacyDelighted to meet the vibrant Indian community in Barbados Wished them a very Happy Diwali in advance Their energy hard work and dedication to preserving Indian culture and values is truly inspiring Proud to call them Indias ambassadors bridging hearts across continents Urged them to become strategic partners in the growth story of our great nation and tell Indias story to the world with conviction Birla posted on XShared inspiring stories of Indian perseverance cricketing spirit and cultural bonds Highlighted Indias achievements Chandrayaan3 digital payments AI and vaccine diplomacy Urged the next generation to stay rooted in Indian culture language and yoga Exhorted them to strengthen IndiaBarbados ties and build a brighter future together he addedEarlier in the day Om Birla met Australian Senate President Sue Lines on the sidelines of the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in BridgetownFollowing the meeting Birla in a post on X wrote It was a great pleasure to meet H E Sue Lines President of the Australian Senate Our discussion on the sidelines of the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Bridgetown underscored the everstrengthening collaboration between our nations which has been bolstered through forums like G20 and the Commonwealth evolving into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since 2020 Spanning critical sectors such as defence trade renewable energy and SampT our collaboration reflects our shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous worldEmphasising Indias leadership in digital governance Birla added India is at the forefront of parliamentary innovation implementing initiatives like the Digital Parliament and AIpowered multilingual tools to enhance transparency efficiency and accountability He extended an invitation to the Australian delegation to participate in the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth CSPOC scheduled to be held in New Delhi in January 2026In another key engagement Birla met Nelly Mutti Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia at the CPA Conference in Georgetown He lauded Zambias democratic journey and the role of parliamentary institutions in amplifying citizens voices The two leaders discussed enhanced collaboration through delegation exchanges and the sharing of best legislative practicesThe Lok Sabha Speaker also held a bilateral meeting with Arthur Holder Speaker of the House of Assembly of BarbadosThe leaders reflected on the deeprooted IndiaBarbados friendship anchored in shared Commonwealth values cultural ties and a love for cricket Our friendship is rooted in shared culture and strong peopletopeople connections Birla notedHe appreciated Barbados decision to grant visafree access to Indian citizens and highlighted the Indian communitys vibrant presence in the Caribbean nationBirla also visited the National Assembly of Barbados and viewed the intricately carved teakwood Speakers Chair gifted by India in 1966 It is a symbol of our enduring friendship he remarked while discussing potential cooperation in education culture and renewable energyEarlier on Thursday Birla also chaired a workshop at the conference where he advocated for the ethical and inclusive use of Artificial Intelligence AI in legislative systems He stressed the importance of using technology to bridge the digital divide and make parliaments more citizencentric IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ls-speaker-om-birla-interacts-with-diaspora-in-barbados-highlights-indias-achievements-642352.html Fri, 10 Oct 2025 16:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/mea-proposes-overseas-mobility-bill-for-comprehensive-emigration-management-642420.html New Delhi Oct 10 The Ministry of External Affairs MEA on Friday proposed to introduce the Overseas Mobility Facilitation and Welfare Bill 2025 in the Parliament aiming to ensure comprehensive emigration management establish regulatory mechanisms for safe and orderly migration and govern overseas employment of Indian nationals The proposed bill establishes a framework that creates policies and schemes for incentivising policy actions for the protection and promotion of the welfare of emigrants The bill will replace the existing Emigration Act 1983According to the MEA the proposed bill seeks to establish an Overseas Mobility and Welfare Council to promote greater convergence between Ministries with respect to policy managementThe Bill seeks to strike a balance between promoting opportunities abroad and establishing a regulatory framework for the protection and welfare of vulnerable categories The Bill creates a mechanism to oversee administration and implementation of international agreements on migration and mobility It creates robust data driven policy management based on labour studies and coordinated actions with different ministries and departments the MEA statedEarlier this year the Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs in its fourth report to Lok Sabha stated that the MEA was seriously considering enacting a new law tentatively titled Overseas Mobility Facilitation and Welfare Bill that will replace the outdated provisions of the Emigration Act 1983The report also details that the Ministry stated that in recent years there has been a visible enhancement in Indias standing as a global power with advances in economic scientific and technological arenasThere is a growing interest from across the world in engaging with India This has resulted in expansion of Indias diplomatic outreach manifesting in India taking the lead in regional groupings increase in the number of highlevel exchanges bilateral agreements and MOUs signed growth in economic and developmental cooperation and initiatives led by India on the international stage such as the International Solar Alliance ISA Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure CDRI etc the report mentionedThe government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has built a conducive environment for Indias growth and development through partnerships with friendly countries over the last decade IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/mea-proposes-overseas-mobility-bill-for-comprehensive-emigration-management-642420.html Fri, 10 Oct 2025 22:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/to-navigate-india-us-ties-diaspora-leaders-call-for-a-pragmatic-approach-641886.html Washington Oct 8 Prominent voices from the Indian American community have urged stronger IndiaUS cooperation and a more active role for the diaspora in shaping policy conversations During a panel discussion organised on Tuesday by India Abroad a diasporafocused publication in the United States Atul Keshap the President of the USIndia Business Council and former Charge dAffairs at the US Embassy in New Delhi argued for quiet diplomacy in the current challenging timesThese moments are difficult I think for the diaspora looking at these last few months the thing that they probably ask themselves is how can they be effective How can they be helpful How can they be constructive And sometimes in moments like this its better to engage in quiet diplomacy he addedKeshap also spoke about the recent H1B visa crackdown from the Trump administration calling it a decision driven by domestic politicsI think in a country as diverse and as layered as India a democracy as well Indians would understand that there are domestic political compulsions that may change how the United States interfaces with the world he notedThe debate over the role of the Indian American community in the US has intensified after Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor recently called the silence of the diaspora puzzling even as ties between Washington and New Delhi worsenedMR Rangaswami the founder of Indiaspora a Californiabased nonprofit organisation defended the role of the community calling it a living bridge between the US and IndiaThe diaspora as a whole has remitted last year 135 billion to India out of which 30 billion came from the US The Indian Americans themselves have impacted this country tremendously We are 1 per cent of the population and pay 6 per cent of the taxes We are 75000 doctors in the US who serve 30 million patients The diaspora lives here works here creates its wealth here but we also help India he stressedAsha Jadeja Motwani a Silicon Valleybased venture capitalist advocated deeper connections within the ruling Republican partyCrudely speaking really the best thing that seems to work is to write a cheque towards certain things I think its a wise thing to do if you can afford it Go for dinners hosted by the Republican Party and get to know people start forming a relationship with the Republicans she addedRangaswami added that any outreach by the diaspora to the US government or policymakers should be framed with an America First kind of positioningI think any such movebringing people to Washington to talk to government has to have an America First kind of positioningAs opposed to saying in Indiaso and so is being done Its like what is the relevance to America So anything lobbying or otherwise in Washington has to be done with America first he advisedKeshap asserted that the Indian side should understand that politics in America is changing very fast and in three years we are going to be a very different AmericaIts going to be sweeping The ambition of this administration to change the economic configuration and how we interface with the world is so ambitious that countries have to decide if they want to adjust to that and this leads to the question of relevance and reciprocity if we can be relevant to one another that is the glue of taking a relationship forward he concluded IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/to-navigate-india-us-ties-diaspora-leaders-call-for-a-pragmatic-approach-641886.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/piyush-goyal-expects-uae-to-step-up-investments-in-india-639521.html New Delhi Sep 19 Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday that investments from the cashrich United Arab Emirates UAE into India are likely to shoot up both as FDI in business ventures and FII in the capital markets My sense is we can look at a larger investment flow from the UAE Given where the Indian economy is today we will look at much larger pools of capital coming into India both as FDI and FII the Minister who is on a twoday trip to the UAE on Thursday and Friday during which he cochaired the 13th IndiaUAE High Level Task Force on Investments along with Abu Dhabi Investment Authority ADIA Managing Director Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and reviewed progress on the IndiaUAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement CEPA the Double Taxation Treaty and UAEIndia Central Bank mattersHe pointed out that the UAE has emerged as a hub of activities for Africa the Middle East and Central EuropeIndia would like to leverage on the hub of investment that the UAE has been successful in creating the minister remarkedGoyal highlighted the complementarity between the UAEs large capital base and Indias skilled talent pool which could lead to a beneficial partnership between the two countriesThere are many thirdcountry requirements where large pools of capital can be deployed It can become a winwin for the third country for the UAE as a provider of large capital and India as a provider of skill and talent We are trying to encourage the private sectors of both countries to work in that direction he saidBusinesses on both sides have used the FTA between India and the UAE to their advantage allowing us to reset our ambitions to a higher level and look at a nonoil and nonprecious metal bilateral trade of 100 billion in the next 3 to 4 years he addedOn Friday Goyal held a series of meetings focused on strengthening bilateral trade deepening investment ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation to further enhance relations a Commerce Ministry statement saidHe engaged with CEOs of prominent Indian and UAE companies during the UAEIndia Business Council UIBC Roundtable which he cochaired alongside the UAEs Minister of Foreign Trade Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al ZeyoudiBoth leaders expressed deep satisfaction over the evergrowing economic partnership between India and the UAE and highlighted the significant role played by the business community in furthering the relationship between the two countriesThere were discussions around the exchange of views on enhancing bilateral trade and investment flows strengthening business partnerships and identifying new areas of economic collaborationProgress on key cornerstone projects like Bharat Mart and India UAE Friendship Hospital was also discussed and the role they would play in enhancing bilateral trade and investments as well as their impact on the wider Indian diaspora in the UAE was also outlinedBoth ministers also noted the increasing role of business leaders in philanthropic initiatives and further commented on the constructive role of these initiatives for the wider community They invited businesses to not just explore opportunities in India and in the UAE but also widen their scope and ambition to other regions such as Africa Europe and Central AsiaAn interaction session between Goyal and prominent UAE business leaders was coordinated by Apparel Group Chairman Nilesh Ved with discussions focused on expanding the investment outreach and highlighting Indias potential to support UAE companies regional and global ambitions The minister outlined the recent progress made by the Indian economy in terms of macroeconomic growth infrastructure development and social inclusion and further emphasised Indias growth path towards Viksit Bharat He invited UAE businesses to leverage the upcoming growth opportunities in India the statement saidDuring these engagements UAE investors shared constructive perspectives on further enhancing the investment environment including issues related to market access regulatory processes and dispute resolution it addedMatters such as arbitration frameworks and predictability of enforcement were also discussed in a forwardlooking manner The minister reiterated Indias commitment to providing a transparent and facilitative business environment and highlighted the governments sustained focus on reforms to strengthen investor confidence and the countrys recent economic performanceGoyal also held focused discussions with First Abu Dhabi Bank CEO Hana Al Rostamani IFFCO Groups Irfan Allana and Sharaf Groups Sharafuddin Sharaf These discussions focused on growth pathways for the companies to enhance their India presence and deepen financial and economic partnerships between businesses of both countries the statement saidHe also interacted with representatives of the India Peoples Forum reflecting the continued engagement with the Indian diaspora and its integral role in strengthening the cultural and economic bonds between India and the UAE He highlighted the significant contributions made by the Indian diaspora in the UAE and its role in driving economic partnership between both countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/piyush-goyal-expects-uae-to-step-up-investments-in-india-639521.html Fri, 19 Sep 2025 23:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/mos-margherita-interacts-with-indian-community-in-papua-new-guinea-638796.html Port Moresby Sep 15 Minister of State for External Affairs MoS Pabitra Margherita interacted with the Indian community members in Papua New Guinea on Tuesday terming them as a living bridge between the two nations He lauded the role of Indian community in strengthening partnership between two nations In a statement shared on social media platform X Margherita stated A heartwarming evening with our vibrant Indian family in Papua New Guinea Over 4000 strong they are a living bridge between India and PNG playing a pivotal role in strengthening our partnership through cultural economic and community contributionsOn Monday Margherita called on Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape conveying greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and people of India on the occasion of countrys 50th anniversary of independenceMargherita expressed both nations commitment to deepening bilateral and peopletopeople tiesHonoured to call on Honble James Marape Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea Conveyed warm greetings from PM Shri Narendra Modi ji and the people of India on the occasion of PNGAt50 Both countries remain committed to deepening bilateral and peopletopeople ties MoS Margherita posted on XMargherita arrived in Port Moresby on Monday on an official visit to Papua New Guinea where he will represent PM Modi at the commemorative events marking Papua New Guineas 50th anniversary of IndependenceDuring the visit MoS Margherita is expected to have bilateral meetings with the political leadership of Papua New Guinea according to Ministry of External Affairs MEA statementFollowing the historic 3rd Summit of the Forum for IndiaPacific Islands Cooperation FIPIC chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in May 2023 in Port Moresby the visit of MOSPM to Papua New Guinea would provide an opportunity to continue our engagement with the leadership in the Pacific Island Countries PICs the MEA statedThe visit also follows the momentum created by Prime Minister Modis landmark visit to Papua New Guinea in 2023 where both nations committed to deepening bilateral relations expanding development partnerships and enhancing defence cooperationPM Modi had travelled to Port Moresby to host the FIPIC III Summit jointly with his Papua New Guinea counterpart James Marape Launched in 2014 FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries PICs namely Cook Islands Federated States of Micronesia Fiji Kiribati Nauru Niue Palau Papua New Guinea Republic of Marshall Islands Samoa Solomon Islands Tonga Tuvalu and Vanuatu IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/mos-margherita-interacts-with-indian-community-in-papua-new-guinea-638796.html Tue, 16 Sep 2025 14:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-hyderabad-students-killed-in-road-accident-in-uk-635948.html Hyderabad Sep 2 Two students from Hyderabad were killed and five others injured in a collision between two cars in the UK reports said According to reports reaching here the accident occurred on Monday in Essex city when two cars collided on the Dual Carriageway A130 at Rayleigh Spur roundaboutThe group of nine students were returning home in two cars after participating in Ganesh NimmajanamChaitanya Tarre 23 died on the spot while Rishiteja Rapolu 21 succumbed at the hospital Five others were injured They were admitted to Royal London Hospital where the condition of two of them was stated to be criticalSai Goutham Ravulla was reported to be on ventilation while Nuthan Thatikayala was left partially paralysedYuva Teja Reddy Gurram Vamshi Golla and Venkata Sumanth Pentyala were also undergoing treatment at the same hospitalGopichand Batamekala and Manohar Sabbani who were driving the cars have been taken into custody by the policeSai Goutham is aged 30 while the remaining members of the group were aged between 20 and 23 years They all had gone to London for higher educationChaitanya from the Nadargul area of Hyderabad had done a BTech and gone to London only eight months ago to do his masters The family received the shocking news on Monday night His parents Ailayya and Mangamma were inconsolableThe family received the information that he along with other friends was returning after immersion of Ganesh idols One of Chaitanyas friends initially informed the family that he was critical and a few hours later informed them that he had succumbedRishitejas family in Boduppal near Hyderabad also received the shocking news on Monday nightThe families of the deceased have appealed to the Central and state governments to make arrangements for bringing the bodies home IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-hyderabad-students-killed-in-road-accident-in-uk-635948.html Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tn-signs-agreements-with-german-firms-state-to-gain-rs-3-201cr-investment-635806.html Chennai Sep 1 In a major boost to Tamil Nadus investment drive three leading German companies signed agreements on Monday in the presence of Chief Minister MK Stalin The deals are expected to bring investments worth Rs 3201 crore to the state and create 6250 new jobs Stalin is currently on a tour of Germany aimed at attracting fresh industrial investments On Sunday he addressed members of the Tamil diaspora in the German city of Cologne urging them to support their home states growth Like developed countries Tamil Nadu too has the potential to grow further if all of us work together he said He appealed to the diaspora to start businesses in Tamil Nadu even if small to contribute to the states development The next day three German companies formalised their investment commitments A Munichbased firm a global leader in braking systems announced a major investment of Rs 2000 crore to establish a stateoftheart facility for rail braking systems and doors This marks the firms first major production investment in Tamil Nadu and is expected to generate 3500 jobs Besides one of the worlds top wind energy manufacturers headquartered in Germany will expand operations in Tamil Nadu with an investment of Rs 1000 crore The project will create 2500 jobs and reinforce Tamil Nadus role as a pioneer in renewable energy and green industrialisation Another firm will invest Rs 201 crore over five years to expand its Global Competence Centre GCC and manufacturing unit in Tamil Nadu The expansion covering HVAC automotive and industrial applications is expected to generate 250 jobs During his visit Chief Minister Stalin also met senior leaders of the BMW Group which has a strong presence in Tamil Nadu He highlighted the states contributions to the automotive and EV sectors and invited BMW to scale up operations through Tamil Nadu to reach markets across India BMW reaffirmed its commitment citing the states robust EV infrastructure and growing sales network With these agreements Tamil Nadu has further strengthened its position as Indias industrial hub drawing global investors in manufacturing renewable energy and advanced technologies IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tn-signs-agreements-with-german-firms-state-to-gain-rs-3-201cr-investment-635806.html Mon, 01 Sep 2025 23:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-professionals-in-tokyo-welcome-pm-modis-push-for-global-partnerships-634946.html Tokyo Aug 28 Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant diplomatic tour of Japan and China starting Thursday On August 29 and 30 PM Modi will participate in the 15th IndiaJapan Annual Summit with his Japanese counterpart Shigeru Ishiba This highlevel meeting is expected to focus on strategic economic and cultural cooperation between the two nations Following his Japan visit PM Modi will travel to Tianjin China where he will attend the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation SCO on August 31 and September 1 The visit is being closely followed by the Indian diaspora and business communities in both countriesIndian community in Japan welcomes PM Modis visitIn Tokyos Minato City members of the Indian diaspora are expressing excitement and pride over the Prime Ministers visit From IT professionals to entrepreneurs many believe PM Modis presence will strengthen bilateral ties boost trade and open new opportunitiesVikas Ranjan who is working in Japans IT sector told IANS We are genuinely excited about PM Modis visit His leadership has brought IndiaJapan relations to a new level Japan has welcomed Indian IT professionals in large numbers and our community is thrivingHe further noted that India will remain largely unaffected by the US high tariffs on Indian products like textiles and electronics PM Modis strong push for Make in India has given us resilience The tariffs wont impact us significantlyPM Modi a symbol of global respect say NRIsAmit Kundu an IT professional in Tokyo for three years believes the deepening of IndiaJapan ties will lead to expanded job creation More doors will open for skilled Indians in Japan Modi is one of the best Prime Ministers India has ever had Hes respected globally no other PM has positioned India on the world stage like thisHe also viewed the US tariffs as a hidden advantage This is a blessing in disguise India now has the chance to explore new markets in the East Our fruits agricultural products and other goods can find buyers in Japan and beyondIndia emerging as a global forceRohan Agrawal who has lived in Japan for 19 years said Whenever PM Modi comes to Japan I make sure to see him The world now views India differently In the past 11 years weve evolved and people everywhere believe that the future belongs to IndiaHe emphasised the importance of language skills in tapping job markets If we promote Japanese language learning in India more people can come and work here Thats the kind of forwardthinking we needCultural ties run deepSandeep a chemical engineer from Maharashtra working in Japan highlighted how cultural relations between India and Japan are growing We celebrated Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti here for the first time Many Japanese people also worship Indian deitiesthough the names differ the reverence is the same Thats a sign of deep cultural affinityProud to see PM Modi raising Indias global profileAmit Gundecha who has lived in Tokyo for 10 years said he hopes to meet PM Modi during this visit as he had done earlier Business opportunities in Japan are tremendous PM Modis visit will definitely result in some landmark agreements If I meet him Ill congratulate him for the third election victoryAnother member of the Indian diaspora a woman attending the community event said Modi ji has raised Indias global standing His work to strengthen Indias ties with countries like Japan is inspiring Another woman added PM Modi is very determined once he decides to do something he makes sure it happens Thats the quality I admire most in himIndias global assertiveness on displayIn response to recent US tariffs on Indian exports many Indians living in Japan view PM Modis firm stand as a sign of Indias rising global assertiveness PM Modis strong stance against unfair US tariffs shows India is no longer afraid to assert itself said Ranjan Were not just reacting were leadingLooking aheadAs PM Modi prepares to engage in two critical diplomatic engagements the IndiaJapan Summit and the SCO Heads of State meeting in China the Indian diaspora and global observers alike are watching closely Whether its business culture or geopolitics expectations are high that India under PM Modi will continue to chart a bold and confident path on the world stage IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-professionals-in-tokyo-welcome-pm-modis-push-for-global-partnerships-634946.html Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/truly-commendable-pm-modi-lauds-indian-community-in-japan-for-preserving-cultural-roots-634965.html Tokyo Aug 29 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded the Indian community in Japan for their commitment to preserving the cultural roots while making meaningful contributions to Japanese society Taking to social media platform X PM Modi wrote in a post Deeply touched by the warmth and affection of the Indian community here in Tokyo Their commitment to preserving our cultural roots while contributing meaningfully to Japanese society is truly commendable In a few hours from now will be interacting with a group of business leaders with a focus on adding vigour to IndiaJapan trade and investment ties PM Modi was warmly welcomed by the Indian community who greeted him with traditional cultural performances and enthusiastic cheers on his arrival in Tokyo for a twoday official visit to attend the 15th IndiaJapan Annual SummitUpon arrival the Prime Minister was received by ONO Keiichi Japans Ambassador to India Sibi George Indias Ambassador to Japan and other senior officials PM Modi remarked that the visit would provide an opportunity to deepen existing partnerships and explore new avenues of collaborationDuring his August 2930 visit PM Modi will hold his first formal bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru IshibaThe two leaders are expected to review the progress of the IndiaJapan Special Strategic and Global Partnership focusing on key sectors including defence and security trade and investment digital technology climate action and innovationThis is PM Modis eighth visit to Japan as Prime Minister reaffirming the importance India places on its partnership with Tokyo In addition to the summit PM Modi will meet Japanese industrialists and political leaders to explore deeper economic collaboration and attract investment in emerging sectorsThe leaders are also expected to discuss regional and global developments particularly those impacting the IndoPacific as well as sustainable development and global peace initiativesAfter concluding his engagements in Japan PM Modi will depart for China to attend the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation SCO IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/truly-commendable-pm-modi-lauds-indian-community-in-japan-for-preserving-cultural-roots-634965.html Fri, 29 Aug 2025 08:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/17-workers-from-jharkhand-trapped-in-cameroon-return-home-after-mea-intervention-634085.html Ranchi Aug 25 Seventeen migrant workers from Jharkhand who had been stranded in Africas Cameroon for the past several months returned home safely on Monday following the intervention of the Ministry of External Affairs MEA The workers belonging to Bokaro and Hazaribagh districts were among 19 people who had travelled to the West African nation through a private agency to work with Transrail Lighting Limited a company engaged in electricity transmission projectsHowever after reaching Cameroon they alleged that the company withheld their wages for four months pushing them into severe financial distress With no money to buy food or other essentials their condition deterioratedIn a desperate plea the workers had recorded a video message and circulated it on social media appealing to both the Central and the Jharkhand governments for helpThe Jharkhand Labour Department took cognisance of the matter and formally alerted the MEA requesting urgent interventionActing swiftly the MEA in coordination with the Indian Embassy in Cameroon not only facilitated their safe return but also ensured that the company released their pending wagesOfficials confirmed that while 17 workers landed in India on Monday and reached their respective homes the remaining two Phoolchand Murmu from Hazaribagh and Bablu Soren from Bokaro are scheduled to return on TuesdayThis is not an isolated case Experts point out that several workers from Jharkhand and other states are often lured abroad with the promise of higher wages and better opportunities only to end up in exploitative situationsTheir rescue and repatriation typically require lengthy negotiations through diplomatic channelsThe safe return of these workers has brought relief to their families and highlights the need for stricter monitoring of recruitment agencies as well as better awareness campaigns to prevent such exploitation in the future IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/17-workers-from-jharkhand-trapped-in-cameroon-return-home-after-mea-intervention-634085.html Mon, 25 Aug 2025 17:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/lokesh-meets-jaishankar-pitches-andhra-pradesh-as-hub-for-diaspora-engagement-632604.html AmaravatiNew Delhi Aug 18 Andhra Pradeshs Information Technology and Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh on Monday met External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in the national capital to pitch his state as a hub for global skills and diaspora engagement The state minister also pushed for skills mobility and responsible migration positioning Andhra Pradesh as a frontrunner in Indias global workforce visionLokesh took the opportunity to apprise the Union Minister about the state delegations recent visit to Singapore and the discussions held with officials there He also briefed him on the possible collaboration opportunities and sought the Centres support for this according to a statement from the ministers office in AmaravatiHe also mentioned that Andhra Pradesh has a vibrant diaspora of over 35 million spread across 130 countries including one million in the USA 800000 in Gulf nations and 400000 in Europe Telugu people in the US have a per capita income of 126000 far surpassing the American average of 70000a testament to their global success the minister said noting the diasporas accomplishmentsLokesh during the discussions also showcased Andhra Pradeshs forwardlooking initiatives to strengthen global skills and diaspora engagement These include forging skill development and institutional partnerships with countries such as Russia and Australia through twinning of institutions and joint training programmes the launch of the Naipunyam portal a unified digital platform connecting job seekers employers and trainers to ensure transparency in the labour market and projects under MMPA with Japan Korea and Taiwan to open overseas job avenues for youth while channeling back investments and technical expertiseThe state also sought greater diaspora engagement urging the global Telugu community to step up investment and knowledge transfer in IT innovation and higher educationThe minister reiterated Andhra Pradeshs commitment to datasharing and collaboration with the Centre to track labour market trends and overseas employment opportunities for its workforceHe also sought MEAs support in extending welfare and protection schemes for migrant workers from Andhra Pradesh including expanded access to insurance schemes like Pravasi Bharatiya Bima YojanaThe minister further requested the Centres assistance for hosting global skills conclaves in Andhra Pradesh fasttracking overseas training infrastructure and expanding predeparture orientation for migrant youthHe also pitched for Central support in setting up an AI Centre of Excellence and a Data City in Visakhapatnam projecting the city as a future technology hub IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/lokesh-meets-jaishankar-pitches-andhra-pradesh-as-hub-for-diaspora-engagement-632604.html Mon, 18 Aug 2025 15:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/maldives-president-watches-in-awe-as-male-reverberates-with-modi-modi-chants-628039.html Male July 25 Chants of Modi Modi and Narendra Modi zindabad echoed through the air as people gathered to greet Prime Minister Narendra Modi with enthusiasm in Male on Friday PM Modi acknowledged their gesture by waving back at the huge crowd which had gathered to welcome him as he inaugurated the newlybuilt Ministry of Defence building in Male along with the Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu A giant portrait of PM Modi also graced the new building of the Maldives Ministry of DefenceIn a post on X PM Modi wrote President Muizzu and I inaugurated a new building of the Ministry of Defence in Malé This is yet another instance of strong IndiaMaldives cooperationPM Modi and Muizzu also released a stamp to mark 60 years of diplomatic ties between two nations PM Modi noted that the ties between two nations are getting stronger with the passage of timeCommemorating a very cherished friendship President Muizzu and I released a stamp to mark 60 years of IndiaMaldives friendship Our ties are getting stronger with the passage of time and are benefitting the people of our nations PM Modi posted on XEarlier PM Modi said that New Delhi takes immense pride in being Males most trusted friend and India has stood with Maldives as first responder in times of need He congratulated the people of Indian Ocean country on the 60th anniversary of its independence and thanked Muizzu for inviting him as the Guest of Honour on this historic occasionMaking a statement to the press along with the Maldives President following their meeting PM Modi said This year India and Maldives are also celebrating 60 years of their diplomatic relations But the roots of our relations are older than history and as deep as the sea The commemorative stamps released today display traditional boats of both nations This reflects that we are not just neighbours but also copassengersIndia is the closest neighbour of Maldives The Maldives holds an important place in Indias Neighbourhood First policy and its MAHASAGAR vision India is proud to be most trusted friend of Maldives Be it a natural disaster or pandemic India has always stood with them as first responders Be it making essential commodities available or handling the economy after Covid India has always worked together For us it is always friendship first he addedPM Modi emphasised that the increasing cooperation between two nations in the defence and security sector is symbol of mutual trust He also spoke about the Defence Ministry Building that is set to be inaugurated and was graced by a giant portrait of PM Modi on FridayMutual cooperation in the field of defence and security is a symbol of our mutual trust The Defence Ministry building which is being inaugurated today is a concrete building of trust It is a symbol of our strong partnership he saidPM Modi announced that India will extend a Line of Credit LoC amounting to USD 565 million to the Indian Ocean archipelago He stated that the two nations have taken several steps to enhance economic partnership He said that India and Maldives will strengthen regional maritime cooperation through the Colombo Security Conclave and also termed climate change a major challenge for both nationsPeace stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region are our shared goals Together through the Colombo Security Conclave we will strengthen regional maritime security Climate change is a major challenge for both our countries We have decided to promote renewable energy and in this sector India will share its experience with the Maldives he saidEarlier in the day PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour at the Republic Square in Male as he began his official engagements during a twoday State Visit to the countryIn a special gesture President Muizzu welcomed PM Modi at the airport in Male as he arrived from the United Kingdom Maldives Foreign Minister Defence Minister Finance Minister and Minister of Homeland Security were also present at the airport to welcome PM Modi IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/maldives-president-watches-in-awe-as-male-reverberates-with-modi-modi-chants-628039.html Fri, 25 Jul 2025 21:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nine-young-devotees-from-six-different-countries-including-us-undertake-amarnath-yatra-627822.html New Delhi July 24 In a remarkable fusion of faith and global spirituality nine young devotees from six different countries including the US Germany and Canada undertook the sacred Amarnath Yatra embracing the challenging Himalayan pilgrimage with devotion and wonder The Department of Information amp Public Relations Jammu and Kashmir shared the news on social media platform X stating 9 young foreign devotees from 6 countries including the US and Germany undertook the sacred ShriAmarnathJiYatra via the Baltal route a beautiful blend of global faith and spiritual harmony in the HimalayasOne young devotee from Canada described her spiritual experience as overwhelming and transformativeI am here in Kashmir experiencing its rich biodiversity and spiritual energy The moment I stepped into the Amarnath cave I was in tears there was a deep sense of peace The entire world is connected through the energies of ShivShakti This cave is special its where Lord Shiv revealed the secret of immortality to Parvati The trek was tough but absolutely worth it I urge everyone regardless of where they are from to come and experience this once in a lifetime he saidAnother pilgrim echoed the sentiment adding It was a truly wonderful experience We felt safe supported and spiritually uplifted We will definitely returnSince this years Amarnath Yatra started on July 3 more than 342 lakh Yatris have had Darshan so far while a fresh batch of 3500 pilgrims started their journey from Jammu towards the two base campsOfficials said that more than 342 lakh Yatris have performed the ongoing Amarnath Yatra during the last 21 days as the huge rush of pilgrims continues unabatedThe officially expected figure of 350 lakh Yatris performing the Yatra this year is likely to be crossed on Thursday only while 17 days are still left for the conclusion of this years YatraThe Yatra has been going on peacefully smoothly and this has encouraged the devotees to come in record numbers As more than 342 lakh had Darshan in the last 21 days we had another batch of 3500 Yatris who left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Valley on ThursdayOf these the first escorted convoy of 45 vehicles carrying 832 Yatris left for Baltal base camp at 325 am while the second convoy of 95 vehicles carrying 2668 Yatris to Pahalgam base camp left at 401 am an official saidThe Bhumi Pujan of Chhari Mubarak Lord Shivas Holy Abode was performed at Pahalgam on July 10The Chhari Mubarak was then taken back to its seat at the Dashnami Akhara buildingIt will start its final journey towards the cave shrine from Dashnami Akhara temple in Srinagar on August 4 and will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9 marking the official conclusion of the YatraAuthorities have made extensive multitier security arrangements for this years Amarnath Yatra as this takes place after the cowardly attack of April 22 in which Pakistanbacked terrorists killed 26 civilians after segregating them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nine-young-devotees-from-six-different-countries-including-us-undertake-amarnath-yatra-627822.html Thu, 24 Jul 2025 21:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/resonated-with-world-iccr-director-on-cultural-events-held-during-pm-modis-brazil-visit-625131.html Brasilia July 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Brazil saw a spectacular display of cultural diplomacy with the traditional performances by Indians and indigenous Amazonian artists Speaking about the unique programme curated for the occasion ICCR Director Jyoti Kiran Shukla expressed pride in the fusion of Indian and Brazilian cultural traditionsEveryone liked it a lot the Honble Prime Minister also had a very enthusiastic reaction to it said Shukla In addition to that we presented Operation Sindoor which is a matter of national pride for India and deeply resonates with the diaspora We conveyed its message through a dance performanceA standout moment of the event held in Brasilia was the performance by Amazonian priests or chiefs a historical first for any global leader A special highlight of yesterdays programme in Brasilia was that for the first time priests or chiefs from the Amazon forests performed for any Prime Minister in the world Their holy chants just like we have mantras were performed in their traditional attire alongside our Shiv Tandav Shukla addedComplementing the grand cultural welcome classical singer Meeta Ravindra Kumar Karahe lent a deeply devotional note to the occasionShe sang a traditional Ram Bhajan at the Alvorada Palace to welcome PM Modi Reflecting on her experience she said I met the Prime Minister yesterday evening and simply greeted him with a Namaste from a distance I told him from afar that I would be singing for him the next day The invitation I received was actually from the Brazilian government They found me and said that someone from their own country should perform for the President someone who could sing devotional songs that he likesThe serene moment was captured and shared by Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal who posted a 2minute and 48second video on X showcasing Karahes soulstirring performance Prime Minister Modi seen alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva appreciated the performance with gentle applause visibly moved by the cultural tributeFrom chants echoing in the Amazon to devotional hymns of India the welcome was a harmonious blend of cultures a gesture that marked not just diplomacy but deep mutual respect IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/resonated-with-world-iccr-director-on-cultural-events-held-during-pm-modis-brazil-visit-625131.html Wed, 09 Jul 2025 11:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/journey-of-indian-community-to-trinidad-and-tobago-about-courage-pm-modi-624299.html Port of Spain July 4 Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago said on Thursday that their life journey in the Carribean country has been about courage He also added I know the story of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is about courage The circumstances your ancestors faced could have broken even the strongest of spirits But they faced hardships with hope They met problems with persistence They left the Ganga and Yamuna behind but carried the Ramayan in their hearts They left their soil but not their soul They were not just migrants They were messengers of a timeless civilisation Their contributions have benefitted this country culturally economically and spiritually Just look at the impact that you have all had on this beautiful nationOur bond goes beyond geography and generations PM Modi noted The Prime Minister also said Kamla PersadBissessar Ji as the first woman Prime Minister of this country Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo Ji as the female President Late Basdeo Pandey the son of a farmer rose to become Prime Minister and a respected global leader Eminent math scholar Rudranath Capildeo music icon Sundar Popo cricketing talent Darren Ganga and Sewdass Sadhu whose devotion built the Temple in the Sea The list of achievers goes onYou the children of Girmitiyas are not defined by struggle anymore You are defined by your success your service and your values Honestly there must be something magical in the doubles and dal poori because you have doubled the success of this great nation PM Modi said in his address to the Indian community hereWhen I last visited 25 years ago we all admired the cover drives and pull shots of Lara Today it is Sunil Narine and Nicholas Pooran who ignite the same excitement in the hearts of our youth Between then and now our friendship has grown even strongerBenaras Patna Kolkata Delhi may be cities in India But they are also names of streets here Navratra Mahashivratri Janmasthmi are celebrated here with joy spirit and pride Chowtal and Baithak Gana continue to thrive hereI can see the warmth of many familiar faces And I see curiosity in the bright eyes of a younger generation keen to know and grow together Truly our bonds go well beyond geography and generationsA cultural connect like no other Very happy to have witnessed a Bhojpuri Chautaal performance in Port of Spain The connect between Trinidad amp Tobago and India especially parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar is noteworthy PM Modi said in a post on social media platform XUpon his arrival PM Modi was also given a ceremonial welcome with people enthusiastically dancing to the beat of drums and showcasing traditional music and performances that reflected a blend of local and Indian culturePrime Minister Modi arrived in Port of Spain on Thursday marking the second stop of his ongoing fivenation tour During his visit to Trinidad and Tobago PM Modi is set to hold highlevel talks with the countrys top leadership to further enhance the bilateral relationshipPM Modi also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora gathered at the airport Many had been eagerly waiting to see and greet the Prime MinisterPM Modi shared some glimpses from the welcome at Port of Spain wishing that friendship between India and Trinidad amp Tobago continues to scale new heights in the times to comeSharing pictures of the welcome ceremony Modi wrote on X Sharing some glimpses from the welcome at Port of Spain May the friendship between India and Trinidad amp Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to comePM Modi also met members of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago and highlighted their contribution to the development of the Caribbean nationMany people from India made their way to Trinidad amp Tobago years ago Over the years they distinguished themselves in several fields and are enriching Trinidad amp Tobagos development journey At the same time they have retained a connection with India and are also passionate about Indian culture Grateful to the local Indian community for an unforgettable welcome in Port of Spain PM Modi wrote on XThe Prime Minister also shared about his meeting with Shankar Ramjattan Nicholas Maraj and Vince Mahato who won the Bharat Ko Janiye Know India Quiz in Trinidad amp TobagoMet youngsters Shankar Ramjattan Nicholas Maraj and Vince Mahato who are winners of the Bharat Ko Janiye Know India Quiz in Trinidad amp Tobago This Quiz has generated widespread participation across the world and deepened the connect of our diaspora with India PM Modi saidIn a post on X Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote PM Narendra Modi has arrived in the capital city of Port of Spain in Trinidad amp Tobago to a warm ceremonial welcome amp Guard of Honour In a special gesture PM was received by PM Kamla PersadBissessar and members of her Cabinet amp several other dignitaries Ministry of Foreign Affairs and CARICOM Affairs at the airportLanded in Port of Spain Trinidad amp Tobago I thank Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar distinguished members of the Cabinet and MPs for the gesture of welcoming me at the airport Modi wrote on X This visit will further cement bilateral ties between our nations Looking forward to addressing a community programme in a few hours from now he addedThis marks PM Modis first visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister and is also the first Indian prime ministerial bilateral visit to the Caribbean nation since 1999In another post PM Modi expressed hope for deepening ties saying May the friendship between India and Trinidad amp Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come alongside images from the ceremonial welcomeAfter arriving at his hotel Modi was greeted by enthusiastic members of the Indian diaspora chanting slogans of Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Modi ModiMany people from India made their way to Trinidad amp Tobago years ago Over the years they distinguished themselves in several fields and are enriching Trinidad amp Tobagos development journey At the same time they have retained a connection with India and are also passionate about Indian culture Grateful to the local Indian community for an unforgettable welcome in Port of Spain PM Modi said on XMinistry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted the special gesture made by the Trinidadian leadership in personally receiving PM Modi at the airport describing it as a warm ceremonial welcomeThe Prime Ministers Office highlighted that the vibrant reception from the Indian community reflected the longstanding cultural bonds and shared heritage between the two countriesDuring his visit PM Modi is scheduled to meet with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister PersadBissessar to deliberate on strengthening bilateral cooperationHe is also expected to address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Trinidad and TobagoAhead of his arrival PM Modi shared his enthusiasm for deepening relations with a valued partner in the Caribbean emphasising the deeprooted cultural links between the two nations IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/journey-of-indian-community-to-trinidad-and-tobago-about-courage-pm-modi-624299.html Fri, 04 Jul 2025 07:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/fir-can-be-registered-on-complaint-sent-by-email-from-abroad-rules-kerala-hc-623845.html Kochi July 1 The Kerala High Court has held that the police cannot refuse to register a first information report FIR merely because a complaint was sent via email from abroad without a signature The high court said that the introduction of Section 173 of the BNSS 2023 has given statutory recognition to the concept of Zero FIR and therefore the police are dutybound to register an FIR if a complaint discloses a cognisable offence even if the complaint is received from outside their jurisdiction or through electronic meansZero FIR has been introduced with the primary purpose of ensuring that victims can file complaints regardless of jurisdiction Therefore the police cannot refuse to register an FIR if a cognisable offence is made out in the complaint even if the complaint is forwarded from a foreign country In these circumstances the rejection of Annexure A7 complaint made by the petitioner on the ground that it was unsigned and sent through email from Australia cannot be justified it pointed outThe high courts ruling came on a plea by the petitioner presently residing in Australia who had sent a complaint via email in 2020 against her husband to the state police chiefThe SPC then forwarded it to the police station concerned but the police officials there refused to register a case citing a lack of a signature in the complaint sent through email and the petitioners unavailability in personThis action of the local police station forced the petitioner to approach the high court for reliefThe high court also made it clear that if a complaint disclosed a cognisable offence then the police are dutybound to register the FIR even if the complainant is residing abroad or if the complaint is unsignedAny refusal to register the FIR solely on the basis of formal defects undermines the statutory mandate under the new BNSS it maintainedSince the original complaint was filed in 2020 and the petitioner expressed her willingness to file a fresh one the court disposed of the plea with a direction to the Station House Officer of Muttom Police Station to act on the fresh complaint filed by the petitioner in accordance with Section 173 of the BNSS IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/fir-can-be-registered-on-complaint-sent-by-email-from-abroad-rules-kerala-hc-623845.html Tue, 01 Jul 2025 16:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modis-outreach-to-diaspora-spurs-fdi-flow-into-india-621675.html New Delhi June 17 Prime Minister Narendra Modis outreach to the Indian diaspora to invest in their ancestral country has been bearing fruit with more FDI coming into India In a significant development signalling renewed IndianAfrican business ties Shrai Madhvani promoter of the globally diversified Madhvani Group has announced major investment plans for IndiaCommending Prime Minister Modis visionary policies such as Ease of Doing Business Make in India and the governments probusiness outlook Madhvani acknowledged that these initiatives played a vital role in the Groups decision to invest in IndiaMadhvani recalled Prime Minister Modis visit to Kampala Uganda in 2018 where the Prime Minister had encouraged the Madhvani Group to become a part of Indias growth story With ancestral roots in Gujarat the Madhvani family shares a deep emotional and cultural connection with IndiaPM Modi on his foreign visits has been making it a point to interact with the Indian diaspora and encouraging them to invest in the country of their originMadhvani along with his family met PM Modi over the weekend and informed him that the Group is exploring investments in India of up to Rs 10000 crore over the next five years which is expected to generate substantial employment and contribute to industrial growthDuring the meeting Madhvani briefed the Prime Minister on the Groups strategic entry into India through the acquisition of Hindustan National Glass amp Industries Ltd HNGIL Indias largest container glass manufacturer currently under insolvency proceedings since October 2021 The acquisition is being undertaken through INSCO a Madhvani Group companyThe group also apprised the Prime Minister about the recent Supreme Court judgment which cleared the legal path for INSCO to take over HNGIL marking a major milestone for the Groups entry into IndiaThe meeting with the Prime Minister marks not only a moment of strategic economic collaboration but also a celebration of enduring cultural and spiritual ties between India and the Madhvani Group Madhvani saidMadhvani also presented Prime Minister Modi with a book authored by his elder brother Kamlesh Madhvani and father Manu Bhai Madhvani both of whom have played foundational roles in the Groups global success IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modis-outreach-to-diaspora-spurs-fdi-flow-into-india-621675.html Tue, 17 Jun 2025 22:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-arrives-in-canada-for-g7-summit-621525.html Kananaskis Canada June 17 Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Canadas Calgary on Monday to participate in the G7 Summit here at the invitation of Canadas Prime Minister Mark Carney On arrival he was met by Acting Indian High Commissioner Chinmoy Naik Canadian officials and leaders of Canadas First Nation the native people of the countryHe will go to the picturesque resort town of Kananaskis where the summit started earlier on Monday under tight security and will feature him and other invitees at Tuesdays sessionPM Modi arrived here after a stopover in Cyprus where he had wideranging talks covering the full range of IndiaCyprus relations with President Nikos ChristodoulidesBefore leaving India PM Modi posted on X that the G7 summit will give a great platform to exchange perspectives on various global issues and elaborate on the priorities of the Global SouthHe will be interacting with G7 leaders President Emmanuel Macron of France Prime Ministers Keir Starmer of Britain Giorgia Meloni of Italy Shigeru Ishiba of Japan Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa along with host Carney who is also the President of G7PM Modi will be missing US President Donald Trump who was cutting short his presence at the summit to return home to deal with the IranIsrael crisisOther invitees to the G7 meeting are Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil and Lee JaeMyung of South Korea and Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese of Australia and Cyril Ramaphosa of South AfricaThis will be an opportunity for PM Modi to have facetoface meetings with these powerful leaders of industrialised and emerging democracies after the Pahalgam terrorist attack and Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist outfits operating in Pakistan and PakistanOccupied KashmirPM Modis visit comes at a pivotal moment for IndiaCanada relations which Carney is trying to reset after it had been marred by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who was influenced by Khalistan supportersMann Parekh a member of the Indian diaspora told IANS Its no secret that CanadaIndia relations havent been at their best over the past few years But Prime Minister Mark Carneys invitation is a ray of new hope an opportunity to reset and improve the relationship between the two countriesCanadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce President Kushagr Sharma said in an interview to IANS PM Modi ji coming here shows that both sides want to work together This will greatly benefit the economic situation of both countries Trade is already happening and it will grow furtherPM Modi visit has created excitement among IndoCanadiansCanada has one of the largest diasporas with 18 million IndoCanadians and one million Indian citizens IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-arrives-in-canada-for-g7-summit-621525.html Tue, 17 Jun 2025 07:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/it-is-festival-for-us-indian-diaspora-gives-grand-welcome-to-pm-modi-in-calgary-621559.html Calgary June 17 Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora after arriving in Calgary Canada on Tuesday to participate in the G7 Summit The visit made at the invitation of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has sparked celebration and pride among IndoCanadians many of whom gathered in large numbers outside the hotel where PM Modi was stayingCarrying placards with messages like Welcome Modi Ji Namaste Modi Ji we are proud of you and Jai Bharat Jai Canada the crowd expressed deep admiration for the Indian Prime Minister Emotions ran high as many waited for hours in hopes of catching a glimpse of the Prime MinisterWe are eagerly waiting for our beloved leader PM Modi Weve been here with hope since morning We saw his landing earlier and then came straight here Since then weve been waiting just to catch a glimpse of him said one enthusiastic member of the Indian diasporaAnother attendee added It is a festival for us Calgary is in festive mode We are welcoming world leaders especially Indian Prime Minister Modi We welcome him openheartedlySome expressed hope that the Prime Ministers visit would mark a turning point in IndiaCanadian relations We are here under his temporary residence to see PM Modi waiting for him to welcome him and hoping to catch his glimpse said another member of the communityOne woman in the crowd remarked Very excited to see Modi Ji We welcome him from the bottom of our hearts Its a precious moment for us to see how Modi ji will raise his voice and it will have an impact on IndianCanadian relationsIn a post on his official X handle after landing PM Modi said Landed in Calgary Canada to take part in the G7 Summit Will be meeting various leaders at the Summit and sharing my thoughts on important global issues Will also be emphasising the priorities of the Global SouthDuring his stay PM Modi is expected to engage in several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis where discussions are likely to focus on pressing global issues development cooperation and the concerns of the Global South IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/it-is-festival-for-us-indian-diaspora-gives-grand-welcome-to-pm-modi-in-calgary-621559.html Tue, 17 Jun 2025 11:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bring-back-my-child-family-of-ghaziabad-student-struck-in-tehran-pleads-with-govt-amid-israel-iran-conflict-621429.html Ghaziabad June 16 The family of a medical student from Ghaziabad currently stranded in wartorn Iran on Monday has appealed to the Indian government to ensure his safe return Rizwan Ansari a resident of Behta Hajipur in Ghaziabads Loni is pursuing an MBBS degree in Tehran and was living in a university hostel that was recently destroyed in a missile strike amid escalating hostilities between Israel and IranAccording to his family Rizwan narrowly escaped the attack He had gone to a nearby hotel with friends for a meal when the missile hit the hostel building Upon returning he found the building reduced to rubble He then called his family using someone elses phone to inform them he was safeSpeaking to IANS Rizwans mother Yaman Rani made an emotional appeal to the Prime MinisterMy son wanted to become a good doctor which is why he went to Tehran to study I request Prime Minister Narendra Modi through your platform to bring my son back to India He told us his hostel building had collapsed and everything he owned was destroyed From childhood he dreamed of becoming either a scientist or a highly qualified doctorHis father Mohammad Ali added Rizwan went to Iran in November last year He has been very disturbed since Sunday as missiles have been landing near his area He went out to eat at a hotel and when he returned the building was gone He told me there were bodies lying around his building He said I am alive only because I was outside I urge the Indian government to bring my son and all Indian students in Iran back safelyGhulam Abbas Rizwans maternal uncle said This is his first year in Iran He told us Israel is continuously launching missiles When he didnt step out for 24 hours we told him to go and get something to eat His mobile phone tablet everything is gone in the collapse We are requesting the government to rescue him and others stuck thereThe situation in the region continues to deteriorate with families like Ansaris anxiously awaiting government intervention IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bring-back-my-child-family-of-ghaziabad-student-struck-in-tehran-pleads-with-govt-amid-israel-iran-conflict-621429.html Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bring-back-our-child-family-of-ghaziabad-student-struck-in-tehran-pleads-with-govt-amid-israel-iran-conflict-621431.html Ghaziabad June 16 The family of a medical student from Ghaziabad currently stranded in wartorn Iran on Monday has appealed to the Indian government to ensure his safe return Rizwan Ansari a resident of Behta Hajipur in Ghaziabads Loni is pursuing an MBBS degree in Tehran and was living in a university hostel that was recently destroyed in a missile strike amid escalating hostilities between Israel and IranAccording to his family Rizwan narrowly escaped the attack He had gone to a nearby hotel with friends for a meal when the missile hit the hostel building Upon returning he found the building reduced to rubble He then called his family using someone elses phone to inform them he was safeSpeaking to IANS Rizwans mother Yaman Rani made an emotional appeal to the Prime MinisterMy son wanted to become a good doctor which is why he went to Tehran to study I request Prime Minister Narendra Modi through your platform to bring my son back to India He told us his hostel building had collapsed and everything he owned was destroyed From childhood he dreamed of becoming either a scientist or a highly qualified doctorHis father Mohammad Ali added Rizwan went to Iran in November last year He has been very disturbed since Sunday as missiles have been landing near his area He went out to eat at a hotel and when he returned the building was gone He told me there were bodies lying around his building He said I am alive only because I was outside I urge the Indian government to bring my son and all Indian students in Iran back safelyGhulam Abbas Rizwans maternal uncle said This is his first year in Iran He told us Israel is continuously launching missiles When he didnt step out for 24 hours we told him to go and get something to eat His mobile phone tablet everything is gone in the collapse We are requesting the government to rescue him and others stuck thereThe situation in the region continues to deteriorate with families like Ansaris anxiously awaiting government intervention IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bring-back-our-child-family-of-ghaziabad-student-struck-in-tehran-pleads-with-govt-amid-israel-iran-conflict-621431.html Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bring-back-our-child-family-of-ghaziabad-student-stuck-in-tehran-pleads-with-govt-amid-israel-iran-conflict-621434.html Ghaziabad June 16 The family of a medical student from Ghaziabad currently stranded in wartorn Iran on Monday has appealed to the Indian government to ensure his safe return Rizwan Ansari a resident of Behta Hajipur in Ghaziabads Loni is pursuing an MBBS degree in Tehran and was living in a university hostel that was recently destroyed in a missile strike amid escalating hostilities between Israel and IranAccording to his family Rizwan narrowly escaped the attack He had gone to a nearby hotel with friends for a meal when the missile hit the hostel building Upon returning he found the building reduced to rubble He then called his family using someone elses phone to inform them he was safeSpeaking to IANS Rizwans mother Yaman Rani made an emotional appeal to the Prime MinisterMy son wanted to become a good doctor which is why he went to Tehran to study I request Prime Minister Narendra Modi through your platform to bring my son back to India He told us his hostel building had collapsed and everything he owned was destroyed From childhood he dreamed of becoming either a scientist or a highly qualified doctorHis father Mohammad Ali added Rizwan went to Iran in November last year He has been very disturbed since Sunday as missiles have been landing near his area He went out to eat at a hotel and when he returned the building was gone He told me there were bodies lying around his building He said I am alive only because I was outside I urge the Indian government to bring my son and all Indian students in Iran back safelyGhulam Abbas Rizwans maternal uncle said This is his first year in Iran He told us Israel is continuously launching missiles When he didnt step out for 24 hours we told him to go and get something to eat His mobile phone tablet everything is gone in the collapse We are requesting the government to rescue him and others stuck thereThe situation in the region continues to deteriorate with families like Ansaris anxiously awaiting government intervention IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bring-back-our-child-family-of-ghaziabad-student-stuck-in-tehran-pleads-with-govt-amid-israel-iran-conflict-621434.html Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/stalin-applauds-kanimozhis-response-on-national-language-in-spain-leg-of-op-sindoor-outreach-619539.html Chennai June 4 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday lauded his sister and DMK MP Kanimozhi for her articulate and widely appreciated response to a question on Indias national language during her address to the Indian diaspora in Spain Kanimozhi who is leading the allparty parliamentary delegation to Spain was asked during an interaction what the national language of India is Her response which has since gone viral on social media platforms drew widespread applause for its inclusive and unifying messageThe national language of India is unity and diversity That is the message this delegation brings to the world and that is the most important thing today Kanimozhi said underscoring the essence of Indias multilingual and multicultural identityTaking to social media platform X Stalin wrote I am proud of Kanimozhi for speaking Tamil Nadus language of love and unity as the voice of IndiaHer words have resonated across the country and abroad he addedKanimozhis statement comes at a time when debates around language imposition and linguistic diversity have resurfaced in national discourse Tamil Nadu under the DMKled government has consistently opposed any attempts to impose Hindi or any single language as the national language instead advocating for the recognition and equal status of all Indian languages The Chief Ministers public endorsement of Kanimozhis remarks signals the DMKs continued emphasis on cultural pluralism and linguistic federalism It also reflects the partys longstanding commitment to upholding the values of the Constitution which does not designate any one language as the national language but recognises 22 official languages under the Eighth ScheduleKanimozhi the MP from Thoothukudi is known for her advocacy of social justice linguistic rights and gender equality Her remarks in Spain have been widely shared by political leaders activists and public figures who hailed her statement as a powerful reminder of Indias foundational values The allparty delegations visit to Spain is aimed at communicating Indias stand on Operation Sindoor the strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied Kashmir in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and the countrys zero tolerance of terrorism IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/stalin-applauds-kanimozhis-response-on-national-language-in-spain-leg-of-op-sindoor-outreach-619539.html Wed, 04 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/terrorism-and-state-machinery-work-together-in-pakistan-indian-delegation-in-uk-619197.html London June 2 BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad who is currently leading an allparty Parliamentary delegation to the United Kingdom said on Monday that terrorism and state machinery operate handinhand in Pakistan Addressing a packed gathering at the India House in London Prasad highlighted Indias strong stand against terrorism and the significance of the Operation Sindoor launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attackThe interaction saw participation of a large number of Indian diaspora members who expressed unwavering solidarity with IndiaThe delegation briefed the community on the circumstances surrounding the Pahalgam attack and Indias subsequent countermeasures reaffirming the countrys firm resolve to combat terrorism in all its manifestationsPrasad described the Pahalgam attack as a conspiracy to disrupt peace and development adding that Indias firm response through Operation Sindoor is aimed at dismantling Pakistanbacked terror campsIndia is in favour of peace but terrorists will have to pay the price for killing innocent Indians he said Terrorism and the state machinery work together in Pakistan so every terror incident will be seen as a war he addedEmphasising Indias consistent policy on national security Prasad declared that the countrys stance on terrorism is uncompromisingUnderlining Indias strong resolve against terrorism the Indian parliamentarians reiterated that any act of terror would be met with the utmost severityPrasad also drew attention to the ongoing human rights violations in Pakistanoccupied Kashmir PoK and BalochistanDo you know what kind of mistreatment is happening with people in the PoK They are crying to come to India Women in Balochistan are being treated most barbarically People in Pakistan are very upset today he saidReflecting on IndiaPakistan conflicts in the past Prasad added We fought four conventional wars none of which were started by India we only responded and Pakistan lost all the wars Jinnah made Pakistan it became the General shopTaking to social media after the interaction Prasad posted on X Today alongside my esteemed colleagues from the allparty delegation I engaged with representatives of the vibrant and diverse Indian Diaspora at India House in London We conveyed Indias unwavering stance against terrorism shedding light on the tragic Pahalgam attackAdditionally we briefed them on Operation Sindoor underscoring Indias resolute policy of combating terrorism in all its forms We emphasised Indias united stance and unwavering commitment to decisively counter terrorism making it clear that any acts of terror will be punished with utmost resolve he addedThe diaspora members lauded Operation Sindoor and measures undertaken by the government led by PM Narendra Modi in confronting crossborder terrorismThe visiting allparty delegation also comprises BJP MPs Daggubati Purandeswari and Samik Bhattacharya Shiv Sena UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi Congress MPs Gulam Ali Khatana and Amar Singh former Union Minister MJ Akbar and former diplomat Pankaj SaranOn Sunday the delegation paid floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Tavistock Square Garden and visited the Dr BR Ambedkar MuseumAt the museum Prasad said We paid emotional tributes to revered Dr Ambedkar We are proud to visit this historic building where Dr Ambedkar lived for two years The Government of India has acquired and preserved this important residence which is now carefully maintained by the Indian High Commission We paid our tribute to this great Indian leader and revered reformer by laying flowersIt is notable that all five sites associated with the life and work of Dr Ambedkar have been preserved as Smriti Sthal reflecting his enduring legacy I pay my deep tribute to his remarkable contribution he addedFollowing visits to France Italy and Denmark the delegation arrived in London as part of Indias global diplomatic outreach campaign to spotlight Operation Sindoor and the continued fight against Pakistansponsored terrorism IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/terrorism-and-state-machinery-work-together-in-pakistan-indian-delegation-in-uk-619197.html Mon, 02 Jun 2025 17:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/value-contribution-of-diaspora-in-strengthening-india-netherlands-ties-says-eam-jaishankar-617046.html The Hague May 20 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar during his visit to the Netherlands addressed the Indian community appreciating their significant contribution in enhancing the relationship between India and the European nation Interacted with representatives of the Indian community this evening Value the contribution of the community to building a stronger relationship between India and the Netherlands EAM posted on X on TuesdayEarlier on Monday EAM Jaishankar met Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans in The Hague exchanging views on respective security perspectives and challenges of both nations and discussing the benefits of forging a bilateral defence partnership between India and the NetherlandsEAM Jaishankar also interacted with Dutch counterpart Caspar Veldkamp in The Hague appreciating the Netherlands strong condemnation of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and support for zero tolerance against terrorismBoth leaders held wideranging discussions on deepening bilateral partnership and engagement with the European Union and exchanged views on the global situation in an era of multipolarityBesides the Foreign Minister the EAM also met strategic experts with discussions focused on deeper engagement between India and the NetherlandsA good exchange of views with strategic experts in the Hague this morning Discussed why India and the NetherlandsEU should engage more deeply in an era of multipolarity and strategic autonomy the EAM posted on XEarlier Jaishankar was received by the Indian Ambassador to the Netherlands Kumar Tuhin and Gabriella Sancisi Director Protocol and Host Country Affairs Department at the countrys Ministry of Foreign AffairsHe is on an official sixday visit to the Netherlands Denmark and Germany scheduled from May 19 to 24 the Ministry of External Affairs MEA announced on SundayAccording to the Ministry of External Affairs MEA the EAMs visit is part of Indias ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at deepening strategic ties and enhancing cooperation with key European partners focusing on strategic partnerships trade investment and regional and global issues of mutual interestDuring the visit EAM will meet the leadership of the three countries and hold discussions with his counterparts on the entire gamut of bilateral relations and regional and global matters of mutual interest the MEA stated on SundayThe visit comes at a time when India is actively bolstering its outreach to Europe with an emphasis on trade investment digital cooperation climate action and shared security concernsEAM Jaishankars meetings are expected to cover a broad range of issues including geopolitical developments global economic challenges and coordination on multilateral platforms IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/value-contribution-of-diaspora-in-strengthening-india-netherlands-ties-says-eam-jaishankar-617046.html Tue, 20 May 2025 10:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-announces-rs-5-lakh-ex-gratia-for-kin-of-fire-victims-616810.html Hyderabad May 18 The Telangana government has announced an exgratia of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of those killed in Sundays fire accident in a building near historic Charminar Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka announced the exgratia after visiting Osmania Hospital where the bodies of the 17 victims were keptThe Deputy Chief Minister consoled the families of the deceased and conveyed his condolencesVikramarka who cut short his visit to Khammam district to reach Hyderabad was accompanied by the Hyderabad incharge Minister Ponnam Prabhakar and Health Minister Damodar Raja NarasimhaThe Deputy CM gathered details about the accident from Police Commissioner C V Anand Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation GHMC Commissioner Karnan and Fire Services Director General Y Nagi ReddyTalking to media persons Vikramarka said the government would extend every possible assistance to the families of the deceasedTerming the incident as very unfortunate he said that Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and the entire Cabinet were shocked over the incident He said the Chief Minister directed ministers and officials to provide relief to victims and monitor the situationAccording to a preliminary investigation by the authorities concerned a shortcircuit led to the fire The Deputy CM said the fire call was received at 616 am and a fire engine from Moghalpura fire station reached the spot at 620 am The firefighters rescued 17 people trapped in the fire and shifted them to hospitalsHe said a total of 12 firefighting vehicles reached the spot to douse the fire Eleven fire engines one firefighting robot 17 fire officers and 70 personnel participated in the operation to check the spread of fireHe also revealed that a fire officer suffered serious injuries while battling the fire and that he has been admitted to a hospitalVikramarka said the state government would take all measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidentsHe said a meeting would be held in 23 days to initiate serious measures to ensure that such incidents do not occur again IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-announces-rs-5-lakh-ex-gratia-for-kin-of-fire-victims-616810.html Sun, 18 May 2025 20:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-america-student-dies-in-bahamas-after-falling-from-balcony-616091.html Boston May 14 An Indianorigin student from the US died after falling from a balcony in the Bahamas just a few days before graduating Gaurav Jaisingh a student of Bentley University Massachusetts was on an annual senior class tripReports suggested that Jaisingh a native of Shrewsbury Massachusetts was a member of the Delta Sigma Pi fraternity and the South Asian Students Association of the UniversityBentley University took to social media on Wednesday grieving the tragic loss of the studentIts been a difficult few days and our community is feeling the emotional toll of the tragic loss of Gaurav Jaisingh 25 Our hearts go out to Gauravs family and friends We plan to honour Gaurav at the undergraduate commencement ceremony the university said in a post on XThe Royal Bahamas Police Force earlier confirmed the incident stating that Jaisingh fell from an upperlevel balcony while inside his hotel room with other roommatesOn Sunday the police launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of an adult male of the United States on Paradise Island According to initial reports sometime around 1000 pm the victim was inside his hotel room with other roommates when it is reported that he accidentally fell from an upperlevel balcony He was later found unresponsive on a lower floor said the police in a press releaseThe police stated that emergency medical services responded and transported the student to the hospital however he succumbed while enroute and investigations are ongoing into this incidentWe share our deepest condolences with Gauravs family friends and loved ones While local authorities are investigating it appears Gaurav accidentally fell from a balcony We will share more information when available while respecting his familys privacy Bentley University said in a statement to the American television network ABC NewsThis is an enormous tragedy for our community Bentley is providing resources for those who are impacted and encourages anyone who needs support to reach out to the universitys counselling centre it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-america-student-dies-in-bahamas-after-falling-from-balcony-616091.html Wed, 14 May 2025 13:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/anita-anand-had-quick-rise-in-canada-politics-616170.html Ottawa May 14 Canadas Foreign Minister Indira Anita Anand who will be charting Canadas course through its reset with India and the brittle ties with the United States is an academicturnedpolitician Anand had a fast rise in politics since her election to parliament in 2019 cycling through the ministries of procurement defence internal trade transport and industry before assuming the foreign affairs portfolio earlier today India timeWhen the Labour Partys fortune seemed low earlier this year and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced he was quitting Anita also said she was leaving politics and returning to academiaNow that the Prime Minister has made his decision to move to his next chapter I have determined the time is right for me to do the same and to return to my prior professional life of teaching research and public policy analysis she said in JanuaryBut as the party made a remarkable comeback under Prime Minister Mark Carney she decided to run for reelectionCarney also persuaded her to stay on in governmentThe first Hindu woman elected to Canadas parliament and the first Hindu to become a minister she took her oath of office with the Bhagavad GitaHer father S V Anand was the son of a freedomfighter from Tamil Nadu V A Sundaram and her mother Saroj Ram was from Punjab and both were doctors who immigrated to CanadaAbout her entry into politics she said During my first campaign many people told me that a woman of Indian descent would not get elected in Oakville Ontario Yet Oakville rallied behind me not once but twice since 2019 an honour that I will hold in my heart foreverAnd her constituents repeated it for the third time in AprilOn her quick rise in government she wrote Back in 2019 I could never have imagined that such work would mean navigating supply chains to overcome a global pandemic addressing sexual assault in the Canadian Armed Forces ensuring military aid reached Ukraine overseeing the Treasury Board Secretariat or reinforcing Canadas Transportation systemsIn her first assignment as the public services and procurement minister in Trudeaus cabinet she made her mark during the Covid pandemic ensuring Canada had enough medical equipment and vaccines some of which were imported from IndiaThat was her steppingstone to become the highprofile defence minister in 2021During her tenure Russia invaded Ukraine and she mobilised Canadian support for KyivNext in 2023 she was made the president of the Treasury Board a ministerial level post with broad oversight of government operations and responsibility for annual federal expenditures of 450 billion and about 300000 federal workersAnd along the way she simultaneously picked up the internal trade and transport portfoliosAn expert in business and finance law she was a tenured law professor at the University of Toronto and did stints as a visiting lecturer at Yale University IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/anita-anand-had-quick-rise-in-canada-politics-616170.html Wed, 14 May 2025 20:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-judge-asks-government-to-answer-questions-on-indian-academics-detention-613824.html New York May 2 A judge has given the US government a days notice to come up with answers regarding the detention of an Indian academic whose deportation was temporarily blocked Federal Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles on Thursday ordered government lawyers to explain why Badar Khan Suri was moved from a detention facility in Virginia where he lives to Louisiana and to Texas after his arrest in MarchImmigration authorities want to deport him because they allege that he has links to Hamas which the US has declared is a Palestinian terrorist organisationHe is a postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown University in WashingtonGiles who had earlier stayed his deportation was hearing an appeal by Suris lawyers to bring him back to Virginia and stop his deportationGovernment lawyers want the case against his deportation moved to a court in Texas where he is now heldSuris lawyers fear that he is at greater risk of being deported because the courts in Texas are considered more conservative and could be sympathetic to the governmentGiles raised questions about the claims of overcrowding in the Virginia detention centre for moving him to a Texas facility where he was given a cot in a TV room while he had a room to himself in VirginiaShe asked Are they moved like that in the middle of the night Is that normalSuri has a PhD from New Delhis Jamia Milia University and was teaching a course on Majoritarianism and Minority Rights in South Asia at Georgetown UniversityHe is married to a US citizen Mapheze Saleh whose father Ahmed Yousef was an adviser to the Hamasrun administration in Gaza creating a link to Hamas in the view of the governmentHomeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin accused Suri of disseminating Hamas propaganda and promoting antiSemitism on social mediaThere has been an outpouring of support for him including from some Jewish religious leaders who wrote a letter supporting himWhen his case was being heard in the Alexandria court his supporters held a demonstration outside to demand his releaseDemocrat Representative Don Beyer a Democrat member of the Virginia State House of Representatives who addressed the protesters said It is Kafkaesque when somebody can be kidnapped without reason without acknowledgment without chargesPresident Donald Trumps administration has said that it was pausing the deportation of students caught in the deportation dragnet for having committed even minor offences but it does not seem to apply to those already in the deportation proceedings like SuriA judge in Vermont State ordered on Wednesday the release of a Palestinian student with a green card who led the antiIsrael protest at Columbia University pending the final decision on his case IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-judge-asks-government-to-answer-questions-on-indian-academics-detention-613824.html Fri, 02 May 2025 16:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/missing-indian-student-in-canada-found-dead-under-mysterious-circumstances-613452.html Ottawa April 29 An Indian student in Canada who has been missing for four days was found dead the Indian High Commission in Ottawa said The student Vanshika was found dead under mysterious circumstancesVanshika the daughter of Devinder Singh an AAP leader hailing from Punjabs Dera Bassi moved to Ottawa two and a half years ago for higher studiesWe are deeply saddened to be informed of the death of Ms Vanshika a student from India in Ottawa The matter has been taken up with the concerned authorities and the cause is under investigation as per local police We are in close contact with the bereaved kin and local community associations to provide all possible assistance the High Commission of India in Canada posted on a social media platform XVanshika went missing on April 25 the day she left her house to check out a room the Hindu Community in Ottawa said in a letter to Ottawa Police ServiceAfter that the Indian High Commission in Ottawa also had posted on X that it is in touch with local partner IndoCanadian community associations and concerned authorities regarding a missing person alert for an Indian student in OttawaVanshika has been missing since the evening of Friday April 25th 2025 after leaving her residence at 7 Majestic Drive around 89 PM to view a rental room Her phone was switched off at approximately 1140 PM that night and she missed an important exam the following day an action completely out of character for her Despite extensive efforts by her family and friends there has been no contact or information about her whereabouts the letter readThe community wrote We are deeply worried and frankly fearing the worst The Hindu community in Ottawa is distressed and the anxiety continues to grow with each passing hour Given the troubling circumstances and the vulnerability of the missing person we respectfully request your personal attention and intervention in this matter We humbly urge the Ottawa Police Service to escalate this case allocate appropriate resources and prioritise the investigation into Vanshikas disappearance A swift and thorough response could make a critical difference in ensuring her safe return IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/missing-indian-student-in-canada-found-dead-under-mysterious-circumstances-613452.html Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-descent-doctor-convicted-in-23-mn-conspiracy-to-illegally-distribute-controlled-drug-611750.html New York April 17 An Indiandescent doctor has been convicted of participating in a 23 million conspiracy to illegally distribute controlled substances and of healthcare fraud according to the US Justice Department Neil Anand 48 was also convicted of money laundering on Tuesday in a federal court in Pennsylvania the department said on WednesdayIn the conspiracy to illegally distribute drugs he issued presigned medical prescriptions for oxycodone that were used by interns to enable just nine patients collect 20850 tablets it saidOxycodone is an opioid painkiller that can be highly addictive and is one of the substances behind the drug epidemic sweeping the USAnand also issued medically unnecessary prescription medications in what prosecutors called Goody Bags through pharmacies he owned if they wanted to get the controlled drugs and billed health insurance companies and government insurance plans for the unneeded medicinesThe insurance companies and plans paid 23 million for the medicines in the Goody Bags the prosecutors saidWhen Anand became aware of the investigation he transferred about 12 million to an account in his fathers name and for the benefit of his minor daughter to conceal the proceeds from the fraud according to the prosecutorsOne of the government lawyers who prosecuted him was Arun Bodapati who works in the Justice Departments Criminal Divisions Fraud SectionAnand is scheduled to be sentenced in AugustHe was originally charged in 2019 with four others three of whom were described as medical graduates of foreign universities without licence to practice medicine in the USOn December 14 2017 an IndianAmerican doctor was arrested on 39 charges of unlawful distribution of prescription opioids and healthcare fraud officials saidThe cardiologist was based in the US state of NevadaThe 58yearold doctor allegedly prescribed opioids such fentanyl hydrocodone and oxycodone Opiods are substances which act on opioid receptors to produce morphinelike effectsCardiologist Devendra Patel allegedly prescribed the aforementioned drugs without legitimate medical cause on a routine basis from May 2014 to September 2017 according to an announcement made by US Attorney General Jeff Sessions and other law enforcement officialsThe accused Devendra Patel had appeared in a federal court in Reno city of Nevada and pleaded not guilty the US media reported IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-descent-doctor-convicted-in-23-mn-conspiracy-to-illegally-distribute-controlled-drug-611750.html Thu, 17 Apr 2025 07:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-vice-president-vance-second-lady-to-visit-delhi-jaipur-and-agra-during-india-visit-611712.html Washington April 16 US VicePresident JD Vance and his Indiandescent wife Usha Vance will be visiting Delhi Agra and Jaipur during their upcoming visit to India the White House announced Wednesday The Vice President is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi when in Delhi next weekThis is Vances first visit to India and the first by an American VicePresident in 13 years The last was Joe Biden who travelled to India in 2013 as VicePresident to President Barack ObamaIndia is second on the Vances twonation tour from Friday until April 24 Italy will be their first stopIn India the Vice President will visit New Delhi Jaipur and Agra Vances office said in a statement The Vice President will hold meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi The Vice President and Second Family will also participate in engagements at cultural sites it addedThere was no mention of Mike Waltz the National Security Advisor in the White House statement and it was not immediately clear if and when he is scheduled to travel to India His visit when it happens will be the third by a senior member of the Trump administration to India following Tulsi Gabbard the Director of National Intelligence and VicePresident VanceThe VicePresident first met PM Modi in Paris on the sidelines of the AI summit in February The Second Lady and the second couples two sons also met the Prime Minister The Wednesday announcement did not mention if the Vances will be accompanied by their children on this visitVance has emerged as an important member of the Trump cabinet and an outspoken advocate of President Donald Trumps agenda The President often calls him for remarks during publiclyaired meetings with visiting foreign dignitaries His most significant Oval Office intervention so far came in the meeting with Ukraines Volodymyr ZelenskyUsha Vances parents came to the US from Andhra Pradesh and she was born in San Diego Her birth name is Usha Bala ChilukuriVances predecessor in the White House VicePresident Kamala Harris never visited India during her tenure although she is also of Indiandescent like Usha Vance her mothers family was based in Tamil Nadu Mike Pence who was VicePresident in President Trumps first term also could not make it although he had expressed a desire to undertake a tour of India IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-vice-president-vance-second-lady-to-visit-delhi-jaipur-and-agra-during-india-visit-611712.html Wed, 16 Apr 2025 21:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/an-untold-story-of-global-hindu-pluralism-and-universal-harmony-610186.html New Delhi April 7 Some may dismiss religion for being divisive I however have experienced the Hindu tradition as a unifier On the morning of 22 January 2024 I chanted SiyaRama and Swaminarayan intermittently while watching Prime Minister Narendra Modi perform the inauguration of the Rama Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya I observed around me not only the diversity of the flock but its solidarity Shaivas Shaktas Vaishnavas Swaminarayans Jains Sikhs Christians and Muslims all experienced themselves as Bharatiya This focus on similarities is the way of Bharat a land of diverse religions sects manifestations of the Divine deities languages foods and peopleAs Hindus around the world prepared to celebrate Ramanavami and Swaminarayan Jayanti on Chaitra Shukla Navami I found that morning in Ayodhya at the forefront of my consciousness even as I sat here in Abu DhabiIt heartens me to briefly reflect on the plurality of deities in India through the lives of Shri Rama and Shri SwaminarayanThe plurality of lineages or sampradays have been an asset to the Hindu Sanatan tradition for nearly two millennia These sampradays typically worship different manifestations of the divine and believe in distinct theological principles or darans Despite these differences and diversities Hinduism has flourished as one identityThis variability reiterated the universal lessons of Hinduism for different regional communities in disparate languages and eras Shri Rama is celebrated for his discipline dignity maryada and respect for individuals irrespective of their social class and genderThese stories are well known and well told I first encountered them before my initiation as a youth while reading the Amar Chitra Katha series I later retold them several times in sermons across India Europe and the Middle EastNot too far from Ayodhya just across the Saryu River is Chhapaiya a small village in the Gonda District of Uttar Pradesh which is celebrated as Shri Swaminarayans birthplaceMillions flock annually to this small town to honour the teachings of Shri Swaminarayan Swaminarayan left home at the age of eleven travelled across the Indian subcontinent from the Himalayas to Kanyakumari and later settled in GujaratSwaminarayans sabha in Gujarat became a place for open conversation among devotees theologians and political emissaries but also the performance of music and literature representing various cultural streams from across IndiaThese conversations were compiled in a text of 273 teachings called the Vachanamrut The proliferation of these lessons amplified the earlier teachings of Maryada Purushottam Shri Rama and Lila Purushottam Shri Krishna both of whom Shri Swaminarayan reveredThe relevance of Swaminarayans teachings is why the Hindu concept of manifestation avtara is important not to alienate and separate Hindu believers through reverence for different manifestations of Divinity but rather to unite them by sharing these same lessons in various tones and registers for diverse communities after a few thousand yearsShri Swaminarayans social reform work embodies these same Hindu values and promotes spiritual excellence His emphasis on empowering womens status in the home as well as in society has been appreciated by notable scholars and historians such as Kanaiyalal M MunshiHis subtle yet impressive reform of classoppressive practices and superstitious ritualistic behavior has been lauded by his contemporaries and subsequent Hindu leaders It can be argued that his teachings paved the way for an articulation of Hinduism that spoke to a changing Colonial India and later a grand global Hindu identityMost importantly Shri Swaminarayans community resonated the Vedic Hindu Sanatan teachings outside of India in an impactful mannerBAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey USA BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi and the most recently inaugurated BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and Cultural Complex in Johannesburg South Africa make accessible the universal teachings of Hinduism to tens of millions outside of IndiaAgain I reflect on Shri Swaminarayans work and teachings as a celebration of the collectiveness and commonality found in all of Hinduism as a continuation or reverberation and not an amendment or restructuring of the work of those who preceded himI write this final thought while sitting under the central dome of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi UAEIn such mandirs and cultural complexes Shri Rama and Shri Swaminarayan along with several other deities grace all Here the benedictions are not limited to those who identify as Swaminarayan or even more broadly HinduThere are no conversations of superiority or hierarchyonly blessings for all those who come with curiosity spiritual thirst or a quest for personal betterment or cultural belonging These are the lessons of love peace and harmony which are the need of the hour for all countries communities cultures and religionsNo wonder the universal ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam the whole world is one family which is one of the core values of the Hindu Sanatan Dharma is felt here on the Day of Ram NavmiSadhu Brahmaviharidas is a Hindu monk initiated into the Swaminarayan Sampraday by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1981 He currently serves as the head monk responsible for the design creation and management of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/an-untold-story-of-global-hindu-pluralism-and-universal-harmony-610186.html Mon, 07 Apr 2025 18:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-tariffs-india-must-consider-safeguarding-its-national-interests-says-ps-chandhok-609891.html New Delhi April 5 As the US reciprocal tariffs begin to shake up the world economy India must consider how to approach this matter in a best possible way while safeguarding its national interest Pervinder Singh Chandhok who has been associated with the IndiaIran and Middle East Chamber of Commerce in the UAE said on Saturday In an interaction with IANS Chandhok said he has great respect for US President Donald Trump It is his desire to grow his country in a very big way and he has decided to introduce new tariffs unilaterally something that most countries still do not agree with said Chandhok a secondgeneration Indian businessman who has lived in TehranThis has now become a global issue and India in particular must also consider how to approach this matter in its own national interest he stressedThe tariffs levied on India 27 per cent are the lowest among its Asian peers compared to 34 per cent on China 36 per cent on Thailand 32 per cent on Indonesia and 46 per cent on VietnamThis is expected to give India a comparative advantage over these countries and result in an increase in exports in some sectors over the long term according to the latest SBI report Indias exports to the US constitute only 4 per cent of its GDP so the direct impact of the 27 per cent hike in tariffs on Indian goods will have only a limited impact according to the report released on FridayOn a question how can India and Iran further enhance the trade relations Chandhok said that India and all the MiddleEastern countries including those with whom we currently do not have trade due to thirdcountry sanctions should work to expand the rupee trade mechanism as much as possibleWe should also introduce preferential tariffs so that the business can grow to its fullest potential he told IANSMeanwhile Iran is looking at ways to resume supplying crude oil to India and is keen on expanding the overall trade basket including in the petrochemical sector through the strategicallylocated Chabahar portIndia stopped importing oil from Iran in 2019 after the after the United States refused to extend exemption from sanctions on the countryRegarding procurement of oil from Iran Chandhok said Keeping in view the global policies practices and the global sanctions in place India has to come up with its national interest and decide which way to go So the national interest will be the guiding factor for the oil purchases IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-tariffs-india-must-consider-safeguarding-its-national-interests-says-ps-chandhok-609891.html Sat, 05 Apr 2025 17:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bhav-dhillon-pm-luxons-india-visit-to-strengthen-bilateral-cooperation-606696.html New Delhi March 17 New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon arrived in India on Sunday for a fiveday visit During this time Bhav Dhillon the former Honorary Consul of India in Auckland and leading face of Indian diaspora in the country spoke exclusively to IANS expressing optimism for collaboration in various sectorsSpeaking about PM Luxons visit Dhillon said This visit is taking place after nine years The New Zealand Prime Minister has come to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi There are multiple areas where we can expect positive outcomes and cooperation with the most significant being the initiation of trade talks between the two countriesRegarding agricultural prospects Dhillon highlighted India is an agrarian country with a large portion of its population engaged in farming Similarly New Zealand has a strong agricultural sector From New Zealands side there are several opportunities in agricultural technology including vegetable farming horticulture apple cultivation and dairy technology These areas offer immense potential for cooperation between India and New ZealandDiscussing the Indian diaspora in New Zealand Dhillon said The Indian community in New Zealand is very strong with a population of around 300000 making up nearly six per cent of the countrys total population In Auckland the largest city in New Zealand Indians make up about 11 per cent of the population along with a significant student community This visit is expected to enhance cooperation in the education sector leading to an increase in the number of students coming to New Zealand in the futureAsked about tourism in New Zealand he said New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world As India continues to grow economically and its people become more affluent many are eager to visit New Zealand ensuring a steady rise in tourism Moreover when it comes to sports cricket serves as a strong unifying factor The sporting relations between India and New Zealand remain robustDhillon further noted Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is attending the Raisina Dialogue as the chief guest We all know that the Raisina Dialogue is Indias premier geopolitical conference New Zealand holds a unique position in the South Pacific while India has significant interests in the IndoPacific region Therefore PM Luxons presence as the chief guest at the Raisina Dialogue makes this visit highly significant IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bhav-dhillon-pm-luxons-india-visit-to-strengthen-bilateral-cooperation-606696.html Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/proud-of-what-indian-community-does-for-our-country-new-zealand-pm-606718.html New Delhi March 17 New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised the Indian community in his country on Monday for its significant role in shaping the island nations progress His remarks came during his fiveday official visit to India marking the first visit by a New Zealand Prime Minister in nine years since former PM John Key Luxon arrived in Delhi on Sunday and was warmly received by Union Minister of State SP Singh Baghel Members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand also accompanied him during his arrival Expressing his admiration for the community he posted on X The Indian community is the thirdlargest ethnic group in New Zealand India is our largest source of skilled migrants and our secondlargest source of international students He further acknowledged their contributions stating IndianKiwis make a massive contribution to New Zealand and Im proud of what this community does for our country Highlighting the importance of this visit Luxon mentioned that he has brought along a highlevel delegation comprising community and business leaders calling it the largestever group to accompany a New Zealand Prime Minister on a foreign trip Among the prominent figures accompanying him are former GovernorGeneral Sir Anand Satyanand former National Party MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi business leader Rajna Patel Sudima Hotels CEO Sudesh Jhunjhunwala India New Zealand Business Council INZBC chair Bharat Chawla Waitakere Indian Association president Sunil Kaushal and Wellington Indian Association president Manisha Morar The participation of these community leaders highlights the importance of connections between individuals promoting more profound cultural interaction and enhancing the partnership between the two countriesLuxon is also scheduled to attend the inaugural session of the 10th Raisina Dialogue 2025 in Delhi on March 17 as the chief guest where he will deliver the keynote address along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi Following this he will travel to Mumbai on March 1920 for discussions with Indian business leaders and representatives from various industries His visit will conclude on March 20 when he departs for Wellington The Ministry of External Affairs MEA described the visit as a reaffirmation of the longstanding and enduring ties between India and New Zealand The statement stressed the commitment of both nations to strengthening bilateral relations across diverse sectors and further deepening peopletopeople connections In February Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Neeta Bhushan met Luxon to explore new avenues for cooperation while reaffirming Indias dedication to elevating the partnership Over the past year Luxon and PM Modi have engaged on multiple occasions including a meeting on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit in Laos in October 2024 as well as a telephonic conversation in July 2024 India and New Zealand share historically close ties driven by mutual interests in trade education culture research and innovation Despite the geographical distance both countries have developed a strong partnership with the Indian diaspora in New Zealand playing a crucial role in fostering cultural and economic cooperation IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/proud-of-what-indian-community-does-for-our-country-new-zealand-pm-606718.html Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/taxpayers-disclose-foreign-assets-worth-rs-29-000cr-foreign-income-of-rs-1-089cr-605064.html New Delhi March 6 As many as 30161 Indian citizens have declared foreign assets exceeding Rs 29000 crores and foreign income of Rs 108988 crore for the Assessment Year AY 202425 following a special campaign launched by the Central Board of Direct Taxes CBDT official sources told IANS on Thursday The Central Board of Direct Taxes CBDT launched a compliancecumawareness campaign aimed at encouraging voluntary disclosures of offshore wealth and incomeThe campaign implemented by the Income Tax Department focused on a datadriven and nonintrusive approach which led to a 4517 per cent yearonyear jump in voluntary disclosures in 202425 compared to 202324Of the 30161 taxpayers who declared their offshore wealth 5483 filed ITRs after the last date while others revised existing filings In addition 6734 individuals updated their residential status from Resident to NonResident according to sourcesThese taxpayers have declared foreign assets worth Rs 29208 crore and additional foreign income of Rs 108988 crore sources saidSources said the tax authorities received financial information from over 108 countries regarding foreign accounts and income in the form of interest and dividends earned outside India by its citizensThe number of taxpayers disclosing foreign assets and income voluntarily has shot up from 60000 in 202122 to 231452 taxpayers in 202425India is one of the early adopters of Common Reporting Standards CRS and has been receiving data since 2018More than 125 countries have agreed to share financial information of individuals linked to other jurisdictions on an automatic basis including details of accounts held account balances dividends interest received and gross paymentsA similar exchange occurs with the USA under the InterGovernmental Agreement under the Foreign Accounts Tax Compliance Act FATCA 2010Using this data received under the automatic exchange of information the Central Board of Direct Taxes CBDT launched a ComplianceCumAwareness Campaign on 17th November 2024 urging taxpayers to declare their foreign assets and income in revised Income Tax Returns ITRs for Assessment Year AY 202425This campaign followed a systemdriven and taxpayerfriendly approach utilising the information received through CRS and FATCAThe Income Tax Department ITD facilitated taxpayers by providing a stepbystep guide to filling Schedule Foreign Assets and Schedule Foreign Source Income along with explanatory materials to help them understand the information received under these frameworksAs part of the campaign SMS and emails were sent to 19501 taxpayers with high foreign account balances or significant foreign income from interest or dividends above a specified thresholdThe taxpayers were requested to revise their Income Tax Returns ITRs to reflect their foreign assets and incomeAdditionally 30 outreach sessions seminars and webinars were conducted across India engaging over 8500 participants directlyOverall approximately 62 per cent of taxpayers responded positively voluntarily revising their ITRs to declare foreign assets and incomeAt the heart of this campaign lies the Trust First approach which prioritises voluntary compliance over enforcement Instead of intrusive actions the Department has trusted taxpayers first giving them ample opportunity to make true and complete disclosures of their foreign income and assets a senior official pointed out IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/taxpayers-disclose-foreign-assets-worth-rs-29-000cr-foreign-income-of-rs-1-089cr-605064.html Thu, 06 Mar 2025 23:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-embassy-grants-visa-to-comatose-indian-students-family-603932.html Washington Feb 28 The US Embassy on Friday granted a visa to the family of an Indian student who suffered critical injuries in a road accident in Washington and has been comatose since then The student identified as Nilam Shinde 35 a postgraduate student at California State University suffered fractures in both arms and both legs after a car hit her from behind on February 14She required brain surgery and has been comatose since thenShinde is still in a critical condition but her health has shown slight improvements her family saidThe family hailing from Maharashtras Satara district which had lost hope of seeing Shinde after several attempts to get a visa failed will be taking the next flight to the countryThe family members who will be going to visit the comatose patient include Shindes father cousin brother and uncleTalking to NDTV Shindes cousin Gaurav said that the visa interview process was very smooth and thanked the media and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and NCPSP leader Supriya SuleHe also shared that they will seek a loan to visit the USHe also urged the Centre to change the visa process No other family should experience what we went through These procedures should be changed for emergencies he saidIt may be mentioned that after learning about the accident the family applied for a US visa but got the interview slot for next yearThe family then made fervent appeals to political leaders and the mediaNCP SP leader Supriya Sule took up the issue after which the Ministry of External Affairs MEA intervened leading to an expedited US visa appointment interview slot for the familyThe driver of the car which hit Nilam has been arrested The accused Lawrence Gallow 58 was arrested five days on February 19 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-embassy-grants-visa-to-comatose-indian-students-family-603932.html Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ramaswamy-in-fray-for-ohio-governor-with-trumps-total-backing-603460.html Washington Feb 26 Vivek Ramaswamy the biotech billionaire is running for Governor of Ohio State and he secured US President Donald Trumps complete and total endorsement right away Today I am honoured to announce that I am running to be the next governor of a great state at the heart of the greatest nation known to mankind the state where I was born and raised the state where Apoorva and I raise our two sons today a state whose best days are still ahead Ramaswamy said at a rally in Cincinnati on MondayApoorva is Vivek Ramaswamys wife and they have two childrenShortly after his announcement President Trump posted his support on his social media platform Truth SocialVIVEK RAMASWAMY is running for Governor of the Great State of Ohio I know him well competed against him and he is something SPECIAL Hes Young Strong and Smart Vivek is also a very good person who truly loves our Country He will be a GREAT Governor of Ohio will never let you down and has my COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENTPresident Trumps endorsement matters in the Republican Party and Ramaswamy will benefit from it but he still has to secure the partys nomination and then beat his Democratic rival whoever it is that emerges from the other sideRamaswamy shot to public attention as a candidate for the Republican Partys nomination to run for President but he did not last long in the primaries and quit and endorsed Trump and then became a close ally of the PresidentTrump named him cochair of a Department for Government Efficiency along with Elon Musk But Ramaswamy opened out shortlyIf Ramaswamy wins he will be the third US Governor of Indian descent so farBobby Jindal the twoterm Governor of Louisiana and Nikki Haley the twoterm Governor of South Carolina were the first and second Both Jindal and Haley are Republicans and Ramaswamy will become the third Republican of Indian descent to head a state administration as GovernorAlthough Indian Americans lean heavily in the direction of the Democratic Party no Democrat of Indian descent has been elected Governor in any of the 50 states yet This could change however if Kamala Harris the former VicePresident decides to run for the post in her home state California which has been speculated about in political circlesShe could technically run for the partys presidential nomination but losing presidential nominees which she was in 2024 have not historically found favour with primary voters in either party IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ramaswamy-in-fray-for-ohio-governor-with-trumps-total-backing-603460.html Wed, 26 Feb 2025 00:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-to-deport-illegal-migrants-from-india-to-costa-rica-602075.html New York Feb 18 The Central American country of Costa Rica has agreed to accept illegal Indian migrants deported from the US creating a bridge for working out their eventual fate The deportations will start on Wednesday under a USfunded programme and the migrants will be detained in a temporary centre near the border with Panama the office of President Rodrigo Chaves Robles has announcedNeither Costa Rica nor the US has said what would happen to the migrants after their detention in Costa RicaThe deal helps the US avoid setting up massive detention facilities within the country for migrants waiting to be deported and avoid the negative opticsThe Government of Costa Rica agreed to collaborate with the United States in the repatriation of 200 illegal immigrants to their country the Presidents office said adding that the deportees would include those from India and Central AsiaIndia has agreed to take back at least 18000 illegal migrants in the US and Washington began deporting them directly to IndiaThe third plane carrying 112 illegal migrants landed in Amritsar on MondayDuring his visit to Washington last week Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India will take back any verified Indian illegal migrant in the US and will also crack down on human traffickers exploiting the vulnerableThe arrangement with Costa Rica followed a visit there by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to get the country to cooperate with President Donald Trumps crackdown on illegal migrationUnder similar deals El Salvador Panama and Guatemala are also receiving deported migrantsIllegal migrants from Pakistan Afghanistan and China were sent to Panama last weekThe Trump administration also set up a detention facility in Guantanamo Bay where terrorists involved in the 911 alQaeda attack on the US are housedGuantanamo Bay is technically in Cuba but the area had been leased to the US for a naval base limiting the application of some aspects of US laws as an external territoryCosta Rica is on the path of illegal migrants coming through from elsewhere in South America travelling through the notorious Darien Gap jungles in Panama to head onwards to the USSome videos on social media promoting illegal migration from India show the Donkey Route taking this pathAt his news conference in Washington on Thursday with Trump at his side PM Modi said India and the US have always been of the same opinion and that any verified Indian who is in the US illegally we are fully prepared to take them back to IndiaHe called for cooperation between the US and India to root out traffickers exploiting the young vulnerable poor people of India who are fooled into coming over as illegal immigrants IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-to-deport-illegal-migrants-from-india-to-costa-rica-602075.html Tue, 18 Feb 2025 22:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/akshardham-new-jersey-a-divine-winter-wonderland-601528.html New Jersey Feb 15 Draped in a pristine blanket of snow Akshardham New Jersey stands not only as a magnificent temple but also a living symbol of Hindu culture devotion and eternal values The snowfall transforms this sacred site into a celestial vision where intricate marble carvings blend seamlessly with the tranquility of nature The golden murti of Bhagwan Swaminarayan radiates divinity against the serene white backdrop while the grand temple spires and intricately sculpted pillars showcase the architectural splendor of this spiritual marvel More than just a masterpiece of craftsmanship this temple offers a rare experience of peace devotion and introspectionImpact of Akshardham on New Jersey USThe creation of Akshardham has placed New Jersey on the global spiritual map This temple has emerged as a majestic symbol of Hindu culture and Indian artistry drawing both the local community and visitors from around the world It has provided a sacred space for Indianorigin residents to stay connected with their traditions while enriching New Jerseys social and cultural fabricBeyond its spiritual significance Akshardham has also boosted the local economy by attracting thousands of devotees and tourists thereby fostering growth in tourism businesses and community developmentIn its very first year Akshardham New Jersey welcomed over 25 million 25 lakh visitors showcasing its global appeal and profound spiritual significanceBuilt by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha BAPS Akshardham upholds the rich traditions of Hindu cultureWithin its vast complex Yogi Hriday Kamal inspirational exhibitions and spiritual programmes spread messages of wisdom service and peaceAkshardham New Jersey remains a beacon of inspiration and purity for visitors worldwide where devotion and spirituality come alive amidst the breathtaking beauty of winter IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/akshardham-new-jersey-a-divine-winter-wonderland-601528.html Sat, 15 Feb 2025 20:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-arrives-in-washington-dc-to-rousing-welcome-by-indian-diaspora-601073.html Washington Feb 13 Members of the Indian diaspora gathered outside Blair House to welcome Prime Minister Modi People carrying flags of India and the US and posters that said America welcomes Narendra Modi expressed excitement over PM Modis visit to the US Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington DC on Wednesday local time for an official working visit marking a new chapter in the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the United States During his twoday visit PM Modi will meet with US President Donald Trump members of the US Cabinet and prominent industry leaders to strengthen bilateral tiesUpon his arrival at Blair House the Prime Minister was greeted by a large group of Indian diaspora members who braved the cold to welcome him Chants of Modi Modi echoed as the crowd cheered and waved the Indian tricolour PM Modi took a moment to interact with the gathering expressing his gratitude for their warm receptionThis visit is expected to focus on key areas such as technology defence trade and energy further enhancing the growing partnership between India and the USPM Modis visit to the US comes at the invitation of US President Donald Trump This will be PM Modis first visit to the United States after Trump assumed office for the second term During his visit PM Modi will hold a meeting with US President TrumpPM Modi will be staying at the Blair House the historic guest lodging for dignitaries visiting the White House Located at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue directly across the street from the White House this historic home is no ordinary guest house Blair House has hosted presidents royalty and world leaders earning its nickname as the worlds most exclusive hotelBlair House is more than just a luxurious guest house Its a symbol of American hospitality and diplomacy a place where relationships are forged and history is made It is a luxurious 70000squarefoot extension of the White HouseIn his departure statement PM Modi said Although this will be our first meeting following his historic electoral victory and inauguration in January I have a very warm recollection of working together in his first term in building a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the USThis visit will be an opportunity to build upon the successes of our collaboration in his first term and develop an agenda to further elevate and deepen our partnership including in the areas of technology trade defence energy and supply chain resilience We will work together for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries and shape a better future for the world he addedSince November 2024 PM Modi and Trump have spoken on the phone twiceExternal Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar attended the inauguration ceremony of President Donald Trump During the visit EAM Jaishankar also met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and participated in the QUAD Foreign Ministers meeting in January 2025Notably India and the US launched a strategic partnership in 2005 The ties between the two nations were elevated to the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership during Trumps visit to India in February 2020 During the first Trump administration the IndoPacific region gained significant attention as a key strategic area in the US foreign policyPM Modi is travelling to the US after concluding his threeday visit to France During his visit to France PM Modi met with US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday local time The two leaders discussed topics of mutual interest including how the United States can assist India in diversifying its energy sourcing through investments in clean reliable US nuclear technology an official statement from the White House said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-arrives-in-washington-dc-to-rousing-welcome-by-indian-diaspora-601073.html Thu, 13 Feb 2025 06:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/paul-kapur-nominated-to-be-second-indian-descent-top-diplomat-for-india-601074.html Washington Feb 13 S Paul Kapur who worked previously on relations with India has been nominated by the Trump administration to head the South Asia bureau at the State Department that conducts diplomatic ties with India and the region Paul Kapur of California to be Assistant Secretary of State for South Asian Affairs said a statement from the office of VicePresident JD Vance including a huge number of appointments that were sent for the US Senates consideration and confirmationKapur currently serves as a professor at the Naval Postgraduate School specialising in South Asian politics and security and international relationsIf confirmed he will be the second Indiandescent top US diplomat for relations with South Asian countries but unlike his predecessor in this category he will head a smaller regional spreadNisha Biswal the first Indiandescent Assistant Secretary of State had headed a bureau that was called the South and Central Asia which included many countries that are now outAccording to his bio on the Naval College website from 2020 to 2021 Kapur served on the State Departments policy planning staff working on issues related to South and Central Asia IndoPacific strategy and USIndia relationsBefore this assignment Kapur taught at Claremont McKenna College and was a visiting professor at Stanford UniversityBooks authored by him are Jihad as Grand Strategy Islamist Militancy National Security and the Pakistani State and Dangerous Deterrent Nuclear Weapons Proliferation and Conflict in South AsiaHe has coauthored India Pakistan and the Bomb Debating Nuclear Stability in South Asia and coedited The Challenges of Nuclear Security US and Indian PerspectivesThe website further said about him that his work has appeared in leading academic journals such as International Security Security Studies Asian Survey and Washington Quarterly in outlets such as the Wall Street Journal the National Interest and RealClearPolicy and in a wide variety of edited volumesFinally the web resume said that Kapur directs a USIndia Track 15 strategic dialogue as well as other USIndia engagements for the Department of DefenceHe received his PhD from the University of Chicago and his BA from Amherst College IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/paul-kapur-nominated-to-be-second-indian-descent-top-diplomat-for-india-601074.html Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/opening-of-indian-consulate-in-marseille-marks-new-chapter-in-india-france-ties-pm-modi-600960.html Marseille France Feb 12 Terming it as a historic moment Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the opening of an Indian Consulate in Marseille marks a new chapter in IndiaFrance ties A historic moment in Marseille President Emmanuel Macron and I inaugurated the Indian Consulate in this vibrant city marking a new chapter in IndiaFrance ties This consulate will serve as an important bridge strengthening our cultural economic and peopletopeople connections PM Modi posted on XPM Modi also shared images of both leaders meeting the Indian community at the venue which he said was very enthusiastic about a new consulate in MarseilleMarseilles links with India are well known During the First World War it was an important base for Indian troops This city has a close link with Veer Savarkar as well On this special opening I thank the French Government and congratulate the Indian diaspora said Prime Minister ModiThe opening of the new Consulate General announced by PM Modi during his 2023 France visit is expected to not only enhance peopletopeople ties between India and France but also strengthen commercial relations in the South of France as Marseille is located at the crossroads of global shipping routes and positioned as the natural gateway to Southern EuropeThe Ministry of External Affairs MEA also asserted that the opening of the first Indian Consulate in continental France is a testament to the deepening IndiaFrance tiesThis will give a boost to the people to people relations amp the multidimensional relationship between the two countries the MEA reflected after the inauguration of the new ConsulateEarlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille along with French President Emmanuel Macron paying homage to the Indian soldiers who fought in the World Wars and sacrificed their livesThe Mazargues War Cemetery is the second largest site where Indian soldiers were laid to rest in Europe and contains 1487 Commonwealth war graves from the First World WarIn a special gesture reflecting the personal rapport between the two leaders PM Modi and President Macron flew together from Paris to Marseille in the French Presidential Aircraft on Tuesday eveningThey held discussions on the full spectrum of bilateral relations and key global and regional issues This was followed by delegation level talks after arrival in Marseille The leaders reaffirmed their strong commitment to the IndiaFrance Strategic Partnership which has steadily evolved into a multifaceted relationship over the past 25 years read a statement issued by the Prime Ministers Office PMOThe talks the statement detailed covered all aspects of the IndiaFrance strategic partnership The two leaders reviewed cooperation in the strategic areas of defence civil nuclear energy and spaceThey also discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in the fields of technology and innovation This area of partnership assumes greater salience in the backdrop of the justconcluded AI Action Summit and the upcoming IndiaFrance Year of Innovation in 2026 The leaders also called for enhancing trade and investment ties and in this regard welcomed the report of the 14th India France CEOs Forum it addedA Joint Statement outlining the way forward for India France ties was also adopted after the talks As many as 10 outcomes in the areas of technology and Innovation civil nuclear energy triangular cooperation environment culture and peopletopeople relations were finalisedPresident Macron hosted a dinner in honour of the Prime Minister in the coastal town of Cassis near Marseille on Tuesday while PM Modi invited the French President to visit India soon IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/opening-of-indian-consulate-in-marseille-marks-new-chapter-in-india-france-ties-pm-modi-600960.html Wed, 12 Feb 2025 17:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-gets-up-to-25-years-in-drunk-driving-crash-killing-2-teens-600428.html New York Feb 8 An Indiandescent construction executive has been given a sentence of up to 25 years for driving at 150 kmph while drunk and high on cocaine resulting in a crash that killed two teen tennis players Amandeep Singh was sentenced on Friday to a maximum prison time of 25 years with a minimum of eight years and four months in Mineola on Long Island as nine family and friends of the victim angrily denounced him in courtYour anger towards me is fully understood and totally justified a penitent Singh told them before he was sentencedThis was all my fault Losing a child is the greatest grief I have committed the great sin If anyone should have died it should have been me he told Judge Helene GugertyThe crowd of the popular teens supporters who had come to witness the sentencing was so large that two additional courtrooms were opened to accommodate themUnder the sentence Gugerty imposed Singh has to serve the minimum sentence before he can be considered for parole based among other things on his conduct in prison with the term extending to 25 years if he doesnt qualify for paroleSingh 36 worked as a project manager for a construction companyNassau District Prosecutor Anne Donnely said that on a night in May 2023 Singh sped the wrong way at 150 kmph in his Dodge Ram truck in a zone with a 65 kmph speed limitHe hit the Alfa Romeo with four teens two of whom survived the crash and he was caught hiding near a garbage dumpster she addedTests revealed that he had a blood alcohol level of 015 per cent nearly twice the limit of 08 per cent and the presence of cocaine she saidThe two 14yearolds who died Ethan Falkowitz and Drew Hassenbein were budding tennis stars who were returning from celebrating their victory in a matchFalkowitzs family has set up a foundation in his honour to promote tennis among young peopleAlong with the US Tennis Association and others it hosts a tennis classic tournament in his honour IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-gets-up-to-25-years-in-drunk-driving-crash-killing-2-teens-600428.html Sat, 08 Feb 2025 08:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-appoints-2-indian-americans-as-special-assistants-597287.html New York Jan 25 President Donald Trump has appointed two Indian Americans as his special assistants dealing with national security and personnel matters Ricky Gill will crucially deal with India at the National Security Council NSC as the senior director for South and Central Asian affairsSaurabh Sharma will work in the Presidential Personnel officeGill had worked in the first Trump administration at the National Security Council as the director for Russia and European Energy Security and at the State Department as the senior advisor in the Bureau of Overseas Buildings OperationsAfter leaving the NSC he ran Gill Capital Group as its principal and general counselHe was also an adviser on European and Asian energy at TC Energy which owns the Keystone XL Pipeline that transports oil from Canada to the US A part of the project approved by Trump was banned by former President Joe BidenThe son of Jasbir and Param Gill he was born in Lodi New JerseyGill has a bachelors degree from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University and a law degree from the University of California BerkeleyHe confirmed in a post in LinkedIn his appointment which was reported by PoliticoBengaluruborn Sharma was the cofounder and president of the Washingtonbased American Moment a conservative organisation that says its mission is to identify educate and credential young AmericansA Republican activist he was the state chairman of Young Conservatives of TexasHe had also done a stint as a journalist with the Daily Caller a conservative publicationSharma has a bachelors degree in biochemistry from the University of TexasHis appointment was reported by Politico and confirmed by American Moment on its website IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-appoints-2-indian-americans-as-special-assistants-597287.html Sat, 25 Jan 2025 08:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-global-outreach-group-meets-musk-in-texas-596137.html Washington Jan 17 An Indian global outreach group was hosted by Elon Musk the worlds richest man and a close advisor to Presidentelect Donald Trump at the SpaceXs Starbase facility in Texas on Friday The delegation of Indian entrepreneurs authors and business leaders had an invigorating and meaningful dialogue with Musk who owns X Tesla and SpaceX and has emerged as the most powerful backer and advisor to the US presidentelect Donald TrumpAs the worlds most powerful democracy transitions to a Trump presidency meaningful dialogue is more important than ever in these challenging times Pleased to have led a conversation with Elon Musk whose groundbreaking work is shaping our collective future Manoj Ladwa the founder of the group wrote in a post on XMusk is widely expected to wield immense influence in the incoming administration and on an entire range of issues from space and automobiles his core strengths to foreign policy and whatever else catches his imaginationAn invigorating hour spent with none other than Elon Musk We discussed a range of topics from spirituality consciousness interplanetary travel monetary policy engineering amongst others And an invitation to the Maha Kumbh Mela Hope he can make it wrote noted author Amish TripathiThe post was accompanied by a group photograph of Musk with members of the groupOn Thursday Ladwa hosted a conversation in DC on what Trumps return meant for the worldHad an amazing set of conversations in DC with key members of the Trump transition team and experts alongside our dynamic India Global Forum delegation We dived deep into big issueseconomic security energy trade defence tech immigration and moreat a critical moment for the US and the world he saidThe insights said the forum head were sharp and the timing couldnt be more significant as the nextgen leaders in the delegation are already shaping the futureFrank open dialogue is how real understanding beginsand thats what democracy is all about he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-global-outreach-group-meets-musk-in-texas-596137.html Sat, 18 Jan 2025 15:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-global-outreach-group-meets-elon-musk-in-texas-596139.html Washington Jan 18 An Indian global outreach group was hosted by Elon Musk the worlds richest man and a close advisor to Presidentelect Donald Trump at the SpaceXs Starbase facility in Texas on Friday The delegation of Indian entrepreneurs authors and business leaders had an invigorating and meaningful dialogue with Musk who owns X Tesla and SpaceX and has emerged as the most powerful backer and advisor to the US presidentelect Donald TrumpAs the worlds most powerful democracy transitions to a Trump presidency meaningful dialogue is more important than ever in these challenging times Pleased to have led a conversation with Elon Musk whose groundbreaking work is shaping our collective future Manoj Ladwa the founder of the group wrote in a post on XMusk is widely expected to wield immense influence in the incoming administration and on an entire range of issues from space and automobiles his core strengths to foreign policy and whatever else catches his imaginationAn invigorating hour spent with none other than Elon Musk We discussed a range of topics from spirituality consciousness interplanetary travel monetary policy engineering amongst others And an invitation to the Maha Kumbh Mela Hope he can make it wrote noted author Amish TripathiThe post was accompanied by a group photograph of Musk with members of the groupOn Thursday Ladwa hosted a conversation in DC on what Trumps return meant for the worldHad an amazing set of conversations in DC with key members of the Trump transition team and experts alongside our dynamic India Global Forum delegation We dived deep into big issueseconomic security energy trade defence tech immigration and moreat a critical moment for the US and the world he saidThe insights said the forum head were sharp and the timing couldnt be more significant as the nextgen leaders in the delegation are already shaping the futureFrank open dialogue is how real understanding beginsand thats what democracy is all about he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-global-outreach-group-meets-elon-musk-in-texas-596139.html Sat, 18 Jan 2025 15:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/in-difficult-times-there-is-india-willing-to-help-different-parties-jaishankar-in-spain-595284.html Madrid Jan 14 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has emphasised Indias growing global stature and its ability to provide meaningful assistance during challenging times Addressing the Indian diaspora during his visit to Spain Jaishankar remarked that IndiaSpain relations are on the cusp of significant advancementSpeaking about his engagement with Spains diplomatic community Jaishankar shared that he was invited by Spains Foreign Minister to address the countrys ambassadors at a global conferenceIt is the first time that a foreign ambassador was invited to address the global ambassadors of Spain he saidHighlighting Indias rising influence he added When a foreign ministry and ambassadors of another country ask you to come and speak to them its worth thinking why Indias positioning today is very important Seeing the situation of the world today all countries think that having good ties with India is in their interestThe External Affairs Minister described India as a new India recognised globally for its economic strength and leadershipToday we are the fifthlargest economy poised to be the thirdlargest The world knows us because of our positioning capabilities and ideas India is seen today as contributing to global conversations he saidHe underlined Indias unique ability to engage with diverse nationsThere are very few countries in a position to talk to Russia and Ukraine Israel and Iran being members of Quad and BRICS PM Modi is able to do both he remarked adding that Indias approach to global challenges is guided by the principle of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas which the world has come to value and understandJaishankar noted Indias efforts in advocating for Africas inclusion in the G20 and reflected on the countrys role during the Covid19 pandemicIf you go around the world there are 100 countries that say If we got our vaccine it was because of India I remember President Sanchez calling PM Modi for Hydroxychloroquine supply he saidHe stressed Indias willingness to help others in need stating In difficult times there is a country named India willing to talk to and help different parties Its not about money or resources but about heart and mind having the ability thinking and credibility to act as a bridgeTurning to trade Jaishankar highlighted the strong economic ties between India and Spain with bilateral trade currently valued at 10 billion euros annuallyThere is a possibility that it will increase he said mentioning new areas of collaboration such as railways automobiles clean technologies and spaceThe global situation is unstable in present times In such times countries close to each other who feel that supply chains and relationships can be built and expanded will forge closer ties The estimate of 10 billion euros might increase in the future he addedAcknowledging the contributions of the Indian diaspora Jaishankar shared his appreciation for their role in strengthening Indias foreign policyMinister Albares asked me what I was doing and I told him I was meeting the Indian community members I heard very good words about the community Its something I hear across the world and every time I feel good So I want to thank all of you he saidHe recalled the recently concluded Pravasi Bharatiya Divas congratulated winners from Spain and expressed gratitude for their efforts in building and reinforcing Indias global standingOn peopletopeople ties Jaishankar announced that a Spanish consulate would soon be established in Bengaluru calling it a good sign for deepening IndiaSpain relations He noted Business is becoming biggerLooking ahead Jaishankar revealed plans for 2026 to be marked as a dual year celebrating culture artificial intelligence and tourism in both countries It will have a longterm good impact on ties he concluded IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/in-difficult-times-there-is-india-willing-to-help-different-parties-jaishankar-in-spain-595284.html Tue, 14 Jan 2025 11:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-and-bangladesh-need-revitalised-regional-co-operation-594917.html New Delhi Jan 11 The future of regional cooperation in South Asia is currently at a pivotal juncture shaped by its historical context While initiatives such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation SAARC have largely failed to achieve the anticipated panregional free trade another important forum the Bay of Bengal Initiative for MultiSectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation BIMSTEC risks facing a similar fate unless significant intervention occurs from its largest member states namely India and Bangladesh These concerns have been exacerbated by the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh in August 2024 which followed a prolonged studentled mass movement that resulted in the removal of longserving Prime Minister Sheikh HasinaThis development has been widely interpreted as indicative of a major shift in Bangladeshs domestic and foreign policy particularly regarding its bilateral relations with IndiaAs Bangladesh navigates this new political landscape within the broader regional geopolitical context it becomes essential for the countrys new leadership regardless of its interim status to leverage Dhakas strategic importance and continue contributing to regional cooperation grounded in mutual respectDespite the destabilising effects of the political upheaval in August 2024 and the external pressures on Dhaka to adjust its regional strategic relationships potentially leading to a distancing from New Delhi the IndoBangla relationship seems to be weathering these challenges with a notable degree of resilienceAs highlighted by Bangladeshs Chief of Army Staff General WakerUzZaman this relationship is characterised by a giveandtake dynamic where Dhakas dependence on India aligns with New Delhis vested interests in maintaining stability in Bangladesh alongside a growing convergence of their regional and global strategic objectivesFurthermore the ongoing alignment of mutual interests particularly in promoting regional economic integration through frameworks such as BIMSTEC and SAARC continues to strengthen this bilateral engagementThese platforms not only have the potential to spark an economic revival across the region but also promise transformative socioeconomic benefits improving the livelihoods of millions in both nationsThus this bilateralism emerges as a fundamental pillar for regional stability and prosperity emphasising its vital role in shaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of South AsiaBIMSTEC or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for MultiSectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation is an interregional cooperative framework involving seven countries from South Asia and Southeast AsiaOriginally conceived as BISTEC Bangladesh India Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Cooperation in 1997 the initiative aimed to enhance intraregional trade investment and economic integration within the Bay of Bengal areaFollowing the later inclusion of Myanmar Bhutan and Nepal the organisation was officially renamed BIMSTEC during its inaugural summit in 2004 The primary goal of this grouping is to foster economic collaboration among its member states while addressing various sectors of mutual interestAs of 2023 the BIMSTEC member nations collectively have a population exceeding 173 billion and a combined gross domestic product GDP of around 52 trillionWithin this framework India and Bangladesh ranked as the first and third largest economies based on nominal GDP play crucial rolesTheir economic dominance provides them with a level of strategic autonomy that facilitates the advancement of regional cooperation allowing these countries to engage in multilateral initiatives with relative independence from external influencesThis dynamic highlights BIMSTECs potential as a platform for establishing a restructured regionally focused economic framework in the Bay of BengalMajor ports of BIMSTEC countries in the Bay of BengalThe establishment of a permanent secretariat in Dhaka in 2014 marked a significant institutionalisation of BIMSTECs operational framework aimed at enhancing technical and economic collaboration among its member statesInitially the organisation delineated 14 priority sectors for cooperation each overseen by a designated lead country to ensure focused management and effective execution India assumed leadership in strategic domains such as Transport Tourism and CounterTerrorism while Bangladesh took the initiative in Trade and InvestmentHowever recognizing the necessity for a more streamlined and outcomeoriented approach the 2022 Colombo Summitconducted virtually in response to the COVID19 pandemicembarked on a comprehensive restructuring of these cooperation sectorsThe summit aimed to reduce reconstitute and construct the cooperation framework by consolidating the original 14 sectors into seven core areas with each member state entrusted with leadership over one sectorUnder this reconfiguration Bangladesh now leads initiatives in Trade Investment and Development whereas India has been assigned responsibility for Security and Energy Cooperation sectorsThe strategic positioning of the BIMSTEC member countries endows the bloc with considerable potential to facilitate economic integration through enhanced terrestrial and maritime connectivityFor both India and Bangladesh active engagement within this regional framework represents a significant opportunity to realise substantial economic gainsFor India which boasts an annual trade volume exceeding 1100 billion BIMSTEC serves as a conduit to access the emerging markets of Southeast Asia thereby aligning with its broader Act East Policy and its aspirations to expand its economy to a 5 trillion threshold in the forthcoming yearsFurthermore this platform provides a vital avenue for promoting the development of Indias eastern and northeastern regions which have historically been perceived as economically underutilisedBIMSTECs connectivity initiatives provide Bangladesh which has an annual trade volume exceeding 120 billion as of 2023 with a new costeffective mechanism to diversify its export portfolio by accessing the Southeast Asian and broader ASEAN marketsThis is particularly crucial for the countrys rapidly growing readymade garment sector which consistently seeks to expand its market reach beyond traditional western partnersConsequently BIMSTECs integrative potential can significantly enhance Bangladeshs economic presence within regional and global value chains thereby reinforcing its role as a key player in the economic landscape of South AsiaDespite the significant economic potential inherent in the BIMSTEC framework the failure to operationalise the 2004 Framework Agreement on Free Trade has considerably impeded intrabloc economic integration over the yearsThe Agreement which is ambitious in scope sought to establish effective trade and investment facilitating measures including the simplification of customs procedures and the development of mutual recognition arrangements among othersHowever notwithstanding this comprehensive mandate member states have been unable to achieve a consensus on the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement FTA thereby constraining the blocs economic synergyThis stagnation is reflected in the asymmetry of trade flows within the blocFor example while annual trade between India and Bangladesh as well as between India and Thailand was recorded at over 1583 billion and 1729 billion respectively in 2023 trade among other member states has remained suboptimalThis underscores the imperative for BIMSTEC member countries to reengage in substantive negotiations resolve outstanding issues and operationalise the FTA to unlock its economic potential and promote deeper economic interdependence and shared prosperity throughout the Bay of Bengal regionIn the context of stagnation within regional cooperation frameworks the recent advocacy by Bangladeshs Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus for the revitalisation of regional blocs such as SAARC presents a timely impetus for recalibrationHowever it would be judicious for Dhaka and New Delhi to prioritise the revitalisation of BIMSTEC given its relatively lower friction points among member states as a precursor to reengaging with more contentious organisations like SAARCDespite the prevailing strains in IndiaBangladesh relations enhanced bilateral engagement between these two nations could exemplify to other BIMSTEC member states the feasibility of regional cooperation aimed at collective benefit and socioeconomic developmentSuch a strategy could motivate other member states to strengthen bilateral trade relationships thereby fostering an enabling environment for the eventual operationalisation of the longstalled Free Trade Agreement within the BIMSTEC frameworkNevertheless the onus rests with India and Bangladesh to navigate the current tensions which are exacerbated by external factors and actors and to determine whether to permit these disruptions to impede progress or to reaffirm their commitment to advancing cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterallyBIMSTEC with its established institutional framework and shared regional aspirations offers a viable platform for initiating this renewed trajectory of collaboration IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-and-bangladesh-need-revitalised-regional-co-operation-594917.html Sat, 11 Jan 2025 23:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/gender-equality-womens-development-integral-to-indias-foreign-policy-says-eam-jaishankar-at-pbd-meet-594668.html New Delhi Jan 10 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar on Friday chaired the fourth plenary session of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha titled Diaspora Divas Celebrating Womens Leadership and Influence Nari Shakti and remarked that progress is superficial until the human side is addressed He said gender equality and womens development are integral to Indias foreign policy and international relations The session celebrated the achievements of women leaders globally while addressing the systemic challenges that hinder progressIn his address EAM Jaishankar said Some of you might be wondering why I am on this panel I want to emphasise that under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership many issues related to gender equality and womens development have become integral to our international activities and foreign policy Notably during Indias G20 presidency we strongly advocated for the concept of womenled development and successfully incorporated it into the G20 conceptual framework We also advanced this idea significantly during the Summit of the FutureHe reflected on the deeprooted issues in society that impact development particularly for women He emphasised that societal change goes beyond addressing visible and simple challengesWe are addressing not challenges which are obvious and simple but things which are very deeply ingrained in society and therefore that much harder really to overcome said JaishankarThe Minister underlined how discrimination often begins at the family level starting from birth and is reflected in access to resources like nutrition health and education It starts at birth you know nutrition health education Basically it becomes an issue of who has in a way a claim on the resources of the family and that is where actually the deepest discrimination is practised he notedHe further elaborated that this ingrained bias extends beyond the household influencing workplace dynamics and opportunities for women And then of course it spills over into the workplace into opportunities and you know all of you would know it far better than I would ever do he addedLinking these issues to Indias broader vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat the EAM explained that traditional metrics such as GDP growth infrastructure development and urban expansion are insufficient without addressing the human aspect of progressWhen we think of progress of modernity of a march towards Viksit Bharat one metric of measuring it is GDP how many roads have you built How many metros How many cities How many airports Yes that is certainly a way of measurement but that is superficial until we address the human side of that progress Jaishankar assertedHe highlighted the importance of fostering change through role models and inspirational figures to overcome these systemic challenges To my mind today these are really some of the powerful changes which are happening in India But like any change as I said they require role models they require inspirations they require the bus he concludedThe session reiterated the pivotal role of women leaders in shaping Indias progress and called for collective efforts to ensure equitable opportunities for all IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/gender-equality-womens-development-integral-to-indias-foreign-policy-says-eam-jaishankar-at-pbd-meet-594668.html Fri, 10 Jan 2025 11:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/modi-sarkar-has-your-back-jaishankar-at-pbd-convention-594493.html Bhubaneswar Jan 9 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar highlighted that hosting the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas PBD Convention in Odisha reflects the Modi Sarkars Poorvudaya policy emphasising the development and prominence of eastern India Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th PBD Convention on Thursday in Bhubaneswar Odisha in the presence of EAM Jaishankar Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnaw among other dignitaries The event commenced with a performance by threetime Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej Addressing the gathering EAM Jaishankar expressed pride in the achievements of the Indian diaspora You all not only feel proud of your achievements but also enhance Indias global respectIn a globalised era the diaspora becomes more important with each passing year Whether it is technology best practices or resources be it tourism trade or investment the twoway flows you enable are invaluable As we strive to make a global workspace this will be even more so in the times to come he saidJaishankar highlighted the peoplecentric changes introduced in India such as improving ease of doing business living and travel He mentioned the application of digital technologies for diaspora welfare including simplified passport issuance and renewal enhanced consular services grievance redressal platforms and more responsible embassies and consulates Most importantly in times of difficulty you can be confident that the Modi Sarkar has your back he added He lauded Odisha for its rich historical and cultural heritage citing the Jagannath Temple Lingaraj Temple Konark Temple and other attractions The hosting of this PBD in Odisha is reflective of Modi Sarkars Poorudaya Policy In so many ways Odisha represents the full richness of our history and culture Jaishankar saidHe also drew a parallel between the states famous Bali Yatra and the Indian governments Act East policy When we define ourselves as an IndoPacific nation we do so from the eastern sea border of Odisha he said Jaishankar highlighted Indias growing confidence modernisation and inclusiveness where tradition and technology coexist He encouraged the diaspora to contribute to the journey of building a Viksit Bharat The PBD Convention organised by the Central government in collaboration with the Odisha state government is being held from January 8 to 10 Delegates from over 50 countries have registered for the event themed Diasporas Contribution to a Viksit Bharat The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention was first established in 2003 under the leadership of thenPrime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as a platform to recognise and engage with the overseas Indian community It is the flagship event of the Ministry of External Affairs showcasing the diversity and progress of different Indian regions Since 2015 the PBD Convention has evolved into a biennial event with themebased conferences held in intervening years This approach facilitates focused discussions on specific areas of interest and offers networking opportunities for the global Indian diaspora IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/modi-sarkar-has-your-back-jaishankar-at-pbd-convention-594493.html Thu, 09 Jan 2025 11:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-police-officer-who-killed-indian-student-sacked-594103.html Seattle Jan 7 Nearly a year after Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula was killed in a police vehicle accident in Seattle the officer responsible Kevin Dave has been fired from the Seattle Police Department Kandula 23 originally from Andhra Pradesh was fatally struck on January 23 2023 while crossing a street Officer Dave responding to a drug overdose call was driving at a speed of 74 mph approximately 119 kmh when his patrol vehicle hit Kandula throwing her 100 feetInterim Seattle Police Chief Sue Rahr announced the decision to fire Dave after the Seattle Office of Police Accountability determined that he had violated four department policiesRahr acknowledged Daves intent to assist in an emergency but emphasised the gravity of the outcomeI believe the officer did not intend to hurt anyone that night and that he was trying to get to a possible overdose victim as quickly as possible However I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving His positive intent does not mitigate the poor decision that caused the loss of human life and brought discredit to the Seattle Police Department The Seattle Times reported quoting RahrThis development follows the earlier firing of another Seattle officer Daniel Auderer for his insensitive remarks and laughter captured on bodycam footage after Kandulas deathIn the video Auderer was heard laughing about the crash describing it in a callous mannerHe was heard stating Uh I think she went up on the hood hit the windshield and then when he hit the brakes flew off the carBut she is dead followed by prolonged laughterAuderer further commented Yeah just write a check Just yeah 11000 She was 26 anyway She had limited valueDuring an interview with the Office of Police Accountability Auderer claimed his remarks were meant to mock city attorneys who might handle a potential wrongful death lawsuitChief Rahr expressed deep regret over Auderers behaviour stating in an internal email that his words inflicted pain on Kandulas family and tarnished the reputation of the police departmentThe actions of this individual police officer have brought shame on the Seattle Police Department and our entire profession making the job of every police officer more difficult she saidDespite the gravity of the incident the King County Prosecutors Office decided not to file criminal charges against Officer Dave Instead the Seattle City Attorney imposed a 5000 traffic infraction on himThe Indian Consulate General in Seattle has been actively involved in the case maintaining regular contact with Kandulas family and representatives The Consulate pledged continued support to ensure justice for Kandula and her family while monitoring the cases progressThe tragedy and its aftermath have sparked widespread outrage raising questions about police accountability and conduct as well as the value placed on human life by those entrusted to protect it IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-police-officer-who-killed-indian-student-sacked-594103.html Tue, 07 Jan 2025 11:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-missions-worldwide-celebrate-the-first-world-meditation-day-591210.html New Delhi Dec 21 Indian missions across the globe celebrated the inaugural World Meditation Day on Saturday emphasising the transformative power of meditation for mental and physical wellbeing At the United Nations India hosted the Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony at the UN Trusteeship Council Indias Permanent Representative to the UN P Harish highlighted the ancient Indian practice of Dhyana meditation describing it as a tool for achieving inner calm and harmonyExpressing pride in the global recognition of meditation Harish noted Happy that UN General Assembly President Philemon Yang UnderSecretaryGeneral for Operational Support Atul Khare Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and many PR colleagues joined us to celebrate this auspicious eventThe General Assembly had adopted the resolution on December 6 spearheaded by a core group of countries including India Liechtenstein Sri Lanka Nepal Mexico and Andorra to commemorate the Winter Solstice as World Meditation DayIn Vientiane the Indian Embassy in Laos marked the occasion in collaboration with Art of Living Laos and Holiday Inn VientianeHighlighting Indias role in the United Nations adoption of December 21 as World Meditation Day the Embassy said in a post on X The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the Resolution declaring December 21 as World Meditation Day with India as a core group memberIndian Ambassador to Laos Prashant Agrawal encouraged attendees to adopt meditation for peace harmony and personal wellbeing Participants also practised simple meditation techniques during the eventThe Nepal Mission to the United Nations celebrated the day underscoring Nepals spiritual heritageIn a post on X the mission wrote Many saints and sages travelled to Nepal in their quest for truth knowledge and spiritual enlightenmentAt a celebration hosted by India at the UN Nepals Permanent Representative Lok Thapa referred to Nepal as Tapobhumi and emphasised meditations potential to unite people foster harmony and build bridges between communitiesThe Consulate General of India in Sao Paulo held a meditation session at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre SVCC where Consul General Hansraj Singh Verma discussed meditations importance and Dr Luisa Gondim from Art of Living guided a short practiceIn Johannesburg the Indian Embassy invited everyone to embrace mindfulnessEven a few minutes of mindfulness can make a big difference Find your inner peace on World Meditation Day it posted on social mediaIn Hong Kong the Consulate General of India extended wishes and encouraged the global community to cultivate inner peace and spread harmony through meditationHigh Commission of India in Sri Lanka also celebrated the World Meditation Day at Mayurapathy Meditation Hall ColomboHCI in Sri Lanka and ICCRs Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre SVCC organised a morning meditation session celebrating the UN declaration of World Meditation Day on December 21 A serene and transformative session joined by enthusiasts across age groups it postedThe Consulate General of India in Bhutan also celebrated World Meditation Day and posted Marking the first World Meditation Day CGI Phuentsholing amp Art of Living Bhutan Chapter hosted a guided meditation at Phuentsholing Central Park 140 participants including Bhutanese dignitaries amp the Indian community joined to promote peace amp harmonyMeanwhile the Indian Embassy in Argentina announced plans to celebrate World Meditation Day with a blend of yoga gastronomy and Indian cultureJoin us for a day together with the Embassy of India and Escobar Municipio the Embassy invited in a postMeanwhile reflecting on the significance of the Winter Solstice at the UN Harish explained In Indian tradition it marks the beginning of uttarayana an auspicious time for inner reflectionHe added Indias leadership in human wellbeing stems from our civilisational dictum of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam the whole world is one familyThe celebrations underscored the universal appeal of meditation as a pathway to peace wellbeing and global harmony IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-missions-worldwide-celebrate-the-first-world-meditation-day-591210.html Sat, 21 Dec 2024 12:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-names-harmeet-dhillon-as-top-civil-rights-official-588775.html New York Dec 10 US Presidentelect Donald Trump has named Republican Party activist Harmeet Dhillon to be the assistant attorney general for civil rights In her new role at the DOJ Department of Justice Harmeet will be a tireless defender of our Constitutional Rights and will enforce our Civil Rights and Election Laws FAIRLY and FIRMLY Trump said on Truth Social making the announcement on MondayThroughout her career Harmeet has stood up consistently to protect our cherished Civil Liberties he saidHe added Harmeet is one of the top Election lawyers in the Country fighting to ensure that all and ONLY legal votes are countedTrump also noted that Harmeet Dhillon is a respected member of the Sikh religious communityIf her appointment is approved by the Senate she will become the second IndianAmerican to hold the top civil rights position after Vanita Gupta who held that position in former President Barack Obamas administration and was the associate attorney general for two years under President Joe BidenDhillon ran unsuccessfully for the chair of the Republican National Committee last yearShe has been a member of the Republican National Committee and said a Sikh prayer at the Republican National Conventions in 2016 and 2024In the 2020 election she was a legal adviser to the Trump campaignShe was the cochair of the Women for Trump a group mobilising womens support for his electionHer career as a civil rights career has focused on the rights of Conservatives and their causes which she is expected to bring to the DOJTrump said that she took on Big Tech for censoring our Free Speech representing Christians who were prevented from praying together during COVID and suing corporations who use woke policies to discriminate against their workersDuring the Covid pandemic she sued California New Jersey and Virginia against their lockdown rules that prevented churches from holding worship servicesShe also sued the University of California Berkeley on behalf of a youth group for preventing a rightwing activist from speaking thereAnother case she took up was that of a White man who alleged that he was fired by Google for writing a memo criticising the companys diversity programmesShe has also sued the extreme leftist group Antifa for allegedly attacking a journalistAnother case she has filed is against a California hospital group on behalf of a woman who said that the doctors there gave her sex change treatment when she was a minor IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-names-harmeet-dhillon-as-top-civil-rights-official-588775.html Tue, 10 Dec 2024 23:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/delhi-hc-asks-centre-to-consider-framing-guidelines-to-protect-interests-of-indians-going-abroad-to-study-588042.html New Delhi Dec 6 The Delhi High Court on Friday asked the Union government to decide on a representation seeking the formation of guidelines to protect the interests of Indian students travelling abroad for educational purposes A bench of Acting Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela asked the Ministry of External Affairs to take a call on the representation made by the petitioner NGO Pravasi Legal CellThe petition said that students travelling abroad for educational purposes currently lack adequate legal protection leaving them vulnerable to fraud exploitation and various malpractices perpetuated by unregulated educational agents and foreign institutionsThe existing legal framework governing emigration as provided under the Emigration Act of 1983 does not contain provisions specifically safeguarding Indian students who seek education abroad the petition addedFiled through advocate Basil Jason the PIL said that in the absence of regulatory oversight these students while pursuing higher education outside India are at substantial risk of becoming victims of exploitationSection 2f of the Emigration Act 1983 defines emigration as the departure of any person from India with a view to taking up employmentThis narrow definition excludes a substantial class of individuals namely students from its ambit and consequently the protections available to emigrants travelling for employment are not extended to those travelling for educational purposes the petition saidThe lack of statutory safeguards contravenes their fundamental rights to equality and protection of life and personal liberty as guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India Indian students while planning to move from their homeland are thus placed in a vulnerable position with limited means of recourse against unethical practices and protect themselves from exploitation An appropriate legislation is the need of the hour to address this pressing issue the petition said adding that as an interim measure appropriate guidelines on students migration abroad will protect the rights and interests of the Indian students IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/delhi-hc-asks-centre-to-consider-framing-guidelines-to-protect-interests-of-indians-going-abroad-to-study-588042.html Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/rbi-hikes-interest-rates-on-nri-foreign-currency-deposits-587976.html Mumbai Dec 6 The RBI on Friday increased the interest rate ceilings on Foreign Currency NonResident Bank deposits or FCNR B deposits which will enable NRIs to earn more on their savings The move is aimed at attracting more foreign capital at a time when the Indian rupee has come under pressure as foreign investors have been pulling money out of the Indian stock markets resulting in hot money outflowsFCNRB deposits are accounts where NonResident Indians NRIs can hold their earnings in foreign currencies like USD or GBP protecting them from exchange rate fluctuationsIn order to attract more capital inflows RBI has decided to increase the interest rate ceilings on FCNR B deposits Accordingly with effect from today December 6 2024 banks are permitted to raise fresh FCNRB deposits of 1 year to less than 3 years maturity at rates not exceeding ARR plus 400 bps and deposits with maturity between 3 to 5 years at rates not exceeding ARR plus 500 bps This relaxation will be available till March 31 2025 an RBI statement saidUntil now interest rates on Foreign Currency NonResident Bank FCNRB deposits were subject to ceilings of Overnight Alternative Reference Rate ARR for the respective currencyswap plus 250 basis points for deposits of 1 year to less than 3 years maturity and overnight ARR plus 350 basis points for deposits of 3 years and above and up to 5 years maturity according to an RBI statementBanks have now been allowed to offer higher interest across the tenorsThe RBI has also decided to move ahead with the introduction of the Secured Overnight Rupee Rate SORR a benchmark based on the secured money marketsFinancial Benchmarks India Ltd FBIL is being requested to take the proposal forwardThe proposal is being taken up in line with the recommendation of the RBIs Committee on the MIBOR BenchmarkThe Reserve Bank had set up the Committee on the MIBOR Benchmark headed by Ramanathan Subramanian to review the rupee interest rate benchmarks in the country especially the usage of Mumbai Interbank Outright Rate MIBOR and to examine the need for transition to new benchmarks The Committee recommended several important measures to further develop the interest rate derivative market and improve the credibility of interest rate benchmarks The Report of the Committee was published on the RBIs website inviting comments from members of the public The Reserve Bank has examined the recommendations of the Committee as well as the feedback receivedThe other recommendations of the Committee are under consideration the RBI statement said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/rbi-hikes-interest-rates-on-nri-foreign-currency-deposits-587976.html Fri, 06 Dec 2024 14:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-names-kolkata-born-doctor-researcher-to-head-health-research-powerhouse-586571.html New York Nov 27 US PresidentElect Donald Trump has named the Kolkataborn Jay Bhattacharya who raised questions about Covid policies to head the National Institutes of Health NIH the medical research powerhouse Trump announced Tuesday night that he was thrilled to nominate him for the job of directing the nations medical research and to make important discoveries that will improve health and save livesAccepting the offer Bhattacharya said on X We will reform American scientific institutions so that they are worthy of trust again and will deploy the fruits of excellent science to make America healthy againThe NIH an agglomeration of 27 separate research organisations dealing with different diseases and health issues has an annual budget of 48 billionDirectorship of NIH is not a cabinetlevel post but would require Senate approval and have an enormous global impact because of the range of its research that has cascading effects around the worldTrump said that Bhattacharya would work with Health Secretary nominee Robert F Kennedy Jr to restore NIH to a gold standard of medical research as they examine the underlying causes of solutions to Americas biggest health challenges including a crisis of chronic illness and diseaseBhattacharya is a multidisciplinary academic at Stanford University holding professorships in medicine economics and health professorship holding a medical degree and a PhD in economicsHe shot to national prominence during the Covid pandemic by questioning the prevalent orthodoxy of the government health establishment of imposing extended broad lockdowns to fight the disease and went headtohead with Anthony Fauci who was acclaimed as the architect of the official policyBhattacharya has asserted that he was the victim of government censorship because Twitter placed him on its Trends Blacklist under official influence limiting his reach on the social media platform now renamed XTrump noted in his post on Truth Social that Bhattacharya is a coauthor of The Great Barrington declaration an alternative to lockdowns proposed in October 2020Bhattacharya was one of the authors of the declaration a statement cosigned by doctors scientists and researchers that called for loosening the restrictions to release healthy young people from lockdowns through a policy of focused protection aimed at older people and those at greater riskThe declaration said that this would allow them normally to build up immunity to the virus through natural infection while better protecting those who are at highest riskThis played into the divide between the political establishments of the Democrats who were for strict lockdowns and RepublicansSome Republicanrun states like Florida which adopted aspects of the declaration did not have significantly lower statistics than Democratrun states like California that followed strict lockdowns while keeping school closures lowerAs the social and educational fallout of the lockdowns has emerged some former government officials who advocated those policies like former NIH Director Francis Collins have conceded that their narrow focus on lockdowns may have been unfortunateWhile Kennedy opposes vaccinations Bhattacharya does notKennedy advocates unorthodox treatments and theories which have come under criticism but his and Trumps focus on chronic diseases has been praised by some critics IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-names-kolkata-born-doctor-researcher-to-head-health-research-powerhouse-586571.html Wed, 27 Nov 2024 22:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/govt-plans-to-establish-offshore-johns-hopkins-university-campus-in-india-583991.html New Delhi Nov 17 The government on Sunday held discussions with a highlevel delegation from the US on establishing an offshore Johns Hopkins University Campus in India Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan met the 12member delegation led by Baltimore Marylandbased Johns Hopkins University JHU President Ronald J DanielsThe delegation also included officials from Gupta Klinsky India Institute GKII an internal unit of JHU with a mandate to bring the JHU community with Indian partners through research education policy and practiceUnion Minister Pradhan highlighted the transformative opportunities enabled by the National Education Policy 2020 NEP 2020 which has paved the way for academic collaborations and advancing Indias education sector He also hailed the universitys commitment towards building robust partnerships with Indian Higher Education Institutions HEIs contributing to the global exchange of knowledge particularly in the areas of dual and joint degree programmes twoway mobility of students and faculty and research partnerships in emerging fields like data science artificial intelligence AI and futuristic technologiesThe minister also emphasised the potential for these collaborations to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students in both nationsThe discussion centred on strengthening academic and research collaborations between JHU and premier Indian HEIsThe delegations visit highlights the growing significance of IndiaUS educational cooperation said the Ministry of EducationAs part of their multicity tour the delegation will visit various Indian university campuses and engage with key government officials academic leaders and embassy representatives to strengthen JHUs operations in India and advance the internationalisation effortsProminent Indianorigin faculty from JHU such as Mathuram Santosham Professor of Paediatrics and International Health and Chirag Parikh Professor of Medicine and Director of the Division of Nephrology also participated in the discussion The delegation also included GKII officials and members of its advisory board including Raj and Kamla Gupta Deepak Raj Kunal Pal and Neetisha Besra according to the ministry IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/govt-plans-to-establish-offshore-johns-hopkins-university-campus-in-india-583991.html Sun, 17 Nov 2024 22:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-to-leave-on-nigeria-brazil-guyana-visit-tomorrow-583577.html New Delhi Nov 15 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave on Saturday on a threenationvisit to Nigeria Brazil and Guyana from November 1621 While on his way to Rio de Janeiro for the G20 Summit PM Modi will first travel to Nigeria on a twoday visit the first by an Indian PM in 17 years starting Saturday at the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed TinubuAccording to a MEA statement during the visit the Prime Minister will hold talks to review the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria and discuss further avenues to enhance the bilateral relationship He will also address a gathering of the Indian community in NigeriaIndia and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic energy and defence collaboration More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership the MEA statedPM Modi will then travel to Rio De Janeiro to attend the G20 Summit November 18 hosted by Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula Da Silva India is part of the G20 Troika along with Brazil and South Africa and has been actively contributing to the ongoing G20 Summit discussionsDuring the Summit the Prime Minister will put forward Indias positions on various issues of global importance and build on the outcomes from the G20 New Delhi Leaders Declaration and Voice of the Global South Summits which were hosted by India in the past two years On the sidelines of the G20 Summit the Prime Minister is expected to meet several leaders the MEA saidFollowing the G20 Summit Prime Minister Modi will travel to Georgetown which would be the first visit to Guyana by an Indian PM since 1968During the November 1921 visit at the invitation of the Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali Prime Minister Modi will not only hold bilateral discussions and meet other senior leaders of Guyana but also address the Parliament of Guyana and a gathering of the Indian diasporaLast year Ali had visited India as the Chief Guest at the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas held in Indore where he was also awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya SammanIn Georgetown Guyana the Prime Minister will also participate in the Second CARICOMIndia Summit and hold meetings with leaders of CARICOM member countries to further enhance Indias longstanding friendship with the region the MEA mentioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-to-leave-on-nigeria-brazil-guyana-visit-tomorrow-583577.html Fri, 15 Nov 2024 23:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-shuts-out-haley-but-ramaswamy-may-get-senior-role-in-new-admin-582073.html New York Nov 11 US Presidentelect Donald Trump has shut the door on Nikki Haley declaring that he wont be inviting her to join his administration but another Indian American Vivek Ramaswamy may get a senior role Out of the blue in his post on Truth Social Trump also said that Mike Pompeo the former secretary of state and Central Intelligence head wont get a job with him eitherI will not be inviting former Ambassador Nikki Haley or former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to join the Trump Administration which is currently in formation he said on Truth Social a social media site for short posts that was started when X formerly Twitter banned himHowever he added I very much enjoyed and appreciated working with them previously and would like to thank them for their service to our CountryDuring a campaign rally in Pennsylvania Trump praised Ramaswamy as very smart and said that hes going to be a part of something thats going to be really bigI dont want to tell him yet exactly his position Were gonna pick the right one he saidTrump added We can put him in charge of one of these big monsters in government and hell do a better job than anybody you can think ofHaley became the first IndianAmerican to hold a cabinet post when Trump appointed her as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations a highlevel position in the USShe quit the job after only two years and quietly began building her base beyond South Carolina state where she had been governorHaley made an unsuccessful run for the Republican partys presidential nomination and was the last to drop out of the race and endorse him angering TrumpHer appeal was to the moderate Republicans some of whom defected to Vice President Kamala Harris because of what they saw as character problems of TrumpAlthough Haley said that she was on standby to campaign for Trump she was not invited to speak at his rallies or any eventAfter criticising his campaign as overly masculine she made a lastminute pitch for Trump in an oped article in The Wall Street Journal but it was laced with criticism of him and not a total acclamationI dont agree with Mr Trump 100 per cent of the time But I do agree with him most of the time and I disagree with Ms Harris nearly all the time That makes this an easy call to vote for him she wroteHowever she added the criticism that while the moderates like much of what he did as President and agree with most of his policies they dislike his tone and cant condone his excesses such as his conduct on January 6 2021 when his supporters rioted and invaded the Capitol when Congress was in the process of certifying President Joe Bidens win in the 2020 electionThe multimillionaire pharmaceutical entrepreneur Ramaswamy also ran against him but folded his campaign early and became his unquestioning supporter and at one rally compared Trump to George Washington the Father of the NationRecalling the fight for the party nomination Trump said I had to compete with this guy and I thought it was going to be easy but it wasnt He was nasty He was quick Hes smart as hellHe did amazingly well because he started really as a rookie right And he got up and he wiped a lot of very smart politicians off the stage Trump saidDuring a debate of the candidates for the Republican nomination that Trump boycotted Ramaswamy made the strongest attacks on Haley over her support for aid to UkraineThere is also media speculation that Ramaswamy may not take an administration job and instead seek the governorship of Ohio in the 2026 electionPompeo had figured in media speculation for a cabinet position possibly Defence in Trumps administration But apparently the former Army captain failed the loyalty test even though he endorsed Trump because he had criticised him for holding on to classified documents after leaving the White House for which Trump was being prosecutedHe and Haley are staunch supporters of Ukraine while Trump has been ambivalent claiming he would end the invasion by Russia IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/trump-shuts-out-haley-but-ramaswamy-may-get-senior-role-in-new-admin-582073.html Mon, 11 Nov 2024 08:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/un-staff-group-holds-exhibition-on-life-work-of-swami-vivekananda-581398.html United Nations Nov 8 Swami Vivekanandas role as the inspirer of spirituality across the world and the builder of bridges was honoured at an exhibition of his life and work here As the centuries pass Vivekananda stands taller and taller inspires people across the world not only in India Swami Sarvarpriyananda the resident minister of the New York Vedanta Society said at the inauguration of the exhibitionHe built a bridge between the East and the West when he travelled to the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 and the bridge is very strong and very vibrant today he saidIndias Consul General in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan said that Vivekanandas message of oneness of humanity embedded in ancient Hindu wisdom has a particular relevance here at the UNThe exhibition was organised by the Society for Enlightenment and Transformation SEAT a component of the UN Staff Recreation Council UNSRCUNSRC President Peter Dawkins said that through the exhibition they want to highlight Vivekanandas relevance to the core values and purposes and mission of United NationsWere hoping to raise awareness of the life of Vivekananda what he brought to the West in particular his strong connection to New York and also if not directly but indirectly to the United Nations he saidThe Hindu Swyamsewak Sangh HSS produced the exhibits that the SEAT brought to the UNGanesh Ramakrishnan an outreach coordinator for the HSS said Swami Vivekananda is more relevant even in these times His clarion call for seva which is selfless service resonates among the youthSarvarpriyananda said that Vivekananda could be said to have kickstarted the Indian Freedom Movement by restoring to India and Indian sense of pride and sense of the modern Indian NationSomebody called him the unconscious father of modern Indian nationalism he saidSarvarpriyananda said that Vivekananda promoted education and scientific thoughtThe exhibition includes panels on his interactions with scientists like Nikola TeslaVivekananda was the inspiration behind the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru Sarvarpriyananda Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata founded the institute at the suggestion of Vivekananda who met him on a ship to the US he recalledThe tens of thousands of scientists and engineers in the US today are the products of the institute or of those that developed through it across India IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/un-staff-group-holds-exhibition-on-life-work-of-swami-vivekananda-581398.html Fri, 08 Nov 2024 11:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telugu-origin-usha-chilukuri-set-to-become-second-lady-of-us-580947.html Amaravati Nov 6 Usha Chilukuri Vance wife of Donald Trumps running mate JD Vance is set to become the first Indianorigin Second Lady of the United States The 38yearold IndianAmerican lawyer has her roots in Andhra Pradesh and the news of her elevation has already sparked celebrations in Vadluru village in West Godavari district from where her family hailsPeople in the village burst firecrackers and distributed sweets after the victory of the Republican ticket of Trump and Vance in the US Presidential electionsEarlier some villagers offered prayers for the victory of Trump and Vance saying this would further strengthen the IndiaUS relationsAndhra Pradesh Minister for Information Technology and Electronics Nara Lokesh said that this is a very special moment for the people of Andhra Pradesh especially West Godavari districtThe Second Lady designate Usha Vance has roots in AP Were proud as people of AP Origin continue to make their mark in various spheres across the world said Minister Lokesh who is the son of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Vance the 40yearold Ohio Senator and the running mate of Presidentelect Trump is set to become the Vice President He married the Yalegraduated lawyer in 2014 The couple has three children Ewan 6 Vivek 4 and Mirabel 2 Ushas parents Radhakrishna Chilukuri and Lakshmi Chilukuri had migrated to the US in 1980 Usha one of the three children of Radhakrishna and Lakshmi was born and brought up in San Diego California A marine molecular biologist and biochemist Professor Lakshmi Chilukuri is Provost of the Sixth College at the University of California San Diego University Radhakrishna Chilukuri also known as Dr Krish Chilukuri is a lecturer Academic Affairs College of Engineering Department of Aerospace Engineering at the San Diego State University Usha who has been passionate about books since her childhood holds a bachelors degree in History from the Yale University and a Master of Philosophy degree from the University of Cambridge Later she joined Yale Law School where she met Vance Their friendship turned into love and they tied the knot in 2014 The couple was blessed by a Hindu priest in a separate ceremony Usha worked as a corporate lawyer and litigator for some years She was a Law Clerk to two Chief Justices of the Supreme Court and argued civil cases belonging to the education medical and defence sectors She was also associated with the Supreme Court Advocacy Clinic Media Freedom and Information Access Clinic and Iraqi Refugee Assistance Projects She is currently working as a litigator in the National Legal Agency Interestingly while studying at Cambridge Usha worked with leftwing and liberal groups and registered her name as a Democratic Party in 2014 Four years later she registered with the Republican Party for voting from Ohio Usha had helped Vance organise a meeting on Social decline in White America that formed the basis of his 2016 bestseller Hillbilly Elegy She played a key role in Vances Senate campaigns in 2016 and 2022 She was instrumental in her husbands election as Ohio senator in 2022 and was also responsible for his campaign for the office of VicePresident IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telugu-origin-usha-chilukuri-set-to-become-second-lady-of-us-580947.html Wed, 06 Nov 2024 20:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/fox-news-decision-desk-declares-trump-has-won-presidency-580775.html New York Nov 6 The Fox News declared Donald Trump the winner of the US presidential election shortly after 145 AM on Wednesday based on its analyses of the results pouring in The network gave the Republican 277 electoral college votes to 226 for Democrat Kamala Harris with 35 results to comeIn the 538 electoral college that will formally elect him 270 are required to win the presidencyNBC said that he is winning the race even though it did not make a formal announcementIt said that he had reached 266 seats in the electoral college and was likely to pick up at least four more in states where he is leavingThe announcement came after it and other media declared that he had won Pennsylvania the crucial swing state needed to winThe other networks have not yet declared a winner in the bitterlycontested election although The New York Times estimated that Trump would be getting 306 seats and Harris 232The Times estimate was based on analysis based on live poll data and demographic and historical informationTrump was expected to speak to supporters celebrating his victory at the campaign headquarters in Palm Beach Florida where a jubilant crowd was waitingMeanwhile the venue for Vice President Kamala Harris victory celebration at Howard University in Washington shut down by 130 AM and her campaign announced that she had gone home IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/fox-news-decision-desk-declares-trump-has-won-presidency-580775.html Wed, 06 Nov 2024 13:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-polls-economy-abortion-immigration-character-top-issues-580298.html New York Nov 5 When voters go to the polling stations on Tuesday they will have to decide between the top issues presented by Kamala Harris abortion and character or Donald Trump immigration and the economy Here is a look at the issues Economy and Inflation The high prices are foremost in the minds of people and the cost of food has increased by about 25 per cent since the end of 2020Harris claims a victory over inflation asserting that the rate has been brought down to 24 per cent But since the prices havent come down people compare current prices to those in 2020Trump points to the economic performance of his administration before the Covid pandemic and the lower prices during his termTrump promises to bring back manufacturing and jobs to the US while Harris points to the programmes like making silicon chips already introduced by her and Biden for boosting manufacturing and jobsForeign Trade To force companies to bring back jobs to the US and reduce the advantages that foreign countries have Trump has threatened high tariffs on imports in some cases going as high as 100 per centHarris calls the tariffs a national sales tax that will worsen the inflation But President Joe Biden has directed trade authorities to increase tariffs on some Chinese importsImmigration Border officials have documented over 10 million people illegally crossing into the US and many more have slipped in without being apprehendedThe huge influx that Trump has labeled an invasion has become a national issue as cities and other areas including those in Democratic zones have felt its impactThe BidenHarris administration has reimposed Trumpera regulations and the infiltrations have substantially abated but the effects of previous waves of entry persistTrump has threatened mass deportations while Harris has walked away from her prior policy of decriminalising illegal entry and now says laws should be reformed and enforcedAbortion Harris has made abortions a centrepiece of her campaign hoping to appeal to women most of whom support abortion rightsAfter the Supreme Court in 2022 rescinded an earlier decision that legalised abortion across the country and made it a state subject several states controlled by Republicans have virtually outlawed abortions or severely restricted themHarris blames Trump for this because the three judges he appointed to the Supreme Court made it possible to overturn the earlier decision She has promised to enact a national law legalising abortion Trump has mellowed his stand to allow abortions in cases of rape or incest or when a womans life is in danger but insists it should be left to the statesDemocracy and Character Harris has called Trump a danger to democracy because he has refused to accept his defeat in the 2020 election and due to the riot by his supporters on January 6 2021 when they broke into the Capitol while Congress was certifying Bidens election They threatened members of Congress and some made death threats against thenVice President Mike PenceShe has called Trump a fascist and he has called her a Marxist and a Communist Harris has pummeled Trump on the character issue highlighting the numerous charges he faces and his conviction in a New York court on charges of manipulating accounts to hide the hush money paid to a porn star to buy her silence on claims he had a tryst with herForeign Policy Trump has said that he wants to be a peacemaker and at the same time claims that his policies for a strong US and his unpredictability have prevented major conflicts from arising and kept the US out of foreign entanglements On Ukraine Trump wants to end the conflict that is costing the US billions in supporting that country against Russia if necessary through a compromiseHarris has indicated continued support for Ukraine and opposes any talk of compromise She has pledged support for Israel but said that she would end the Gaza War and spoke of the scale of death and destruction in GazaTrump on the other hand offers Israel unquestioned support and would likely back a massive attack on Iran He has also been highly critical of ChinaEnergy A climate change sceptic Trump has said he would undo restrictions on drilling for petroleum and gas and use increased exploitation to bring down pricesHarris has given up her opposition to a method of gas drilling called fracking but has not committed to a massive expansion of drilling for energy or dropping many of the restrictions She has also toned down the administrations proposals to restrict petrolpowered cars and boost electric vehiclesSocial Issues Trump has brought focus to the issue of transgender men competing in womens sports and using womens and girls bathrooms He has said that he would end both Harris is sympathetic to the cause of transgender people and said she would protect their rightsFor Trump personal issues are also at stake He is facing several cases and the elections outcome can determine what happens In the federal cases he can call off the prosecutions and investigations by dismissing Special Prosecutor Jack SmithBut in the statelevel cases he has no powers and were he sentenced to prison in New York where he has been convicted of charges of manipulating business accounts there could be the bizarre scenario of him running the country behind bars IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-polls-economy-abortion-immigration-character-top-issues-580298.html Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-election-polarised-us-goes-to-polls-in-air-of-uncertainty-580341.html New York Nov 5 A polarised US votes in an air of uncertainty on Tuesday for a President who will guide its destiny and have an impact on the world over the next four years The nation could make history by electing its first woman President Kamala Harris who is of partial Indian descent or reelect Donald Trump who had been defeated in 2020 after his first termThe vicious campaign leading to the election was marred by violence with Republican Trump surviving two assassination attempts one of them injuring himVice President Harris became the partys unexpected candidate just three months ago after President Joe Biden dropped out after he stumbled in a debate with Trump showing signs of weariness of ageShe faces Trump who has been campaigning nonstop for four years since his defeat that he has refused to admitTrump has promised a return to a Golden Age when America was great while Harris said she will turn the page for a new beginning of amity and cooperationWhile Trump has a record however controversial it may be Harris has had limited opportunities to distinguish herself in only three months of campaigning after emerging from Bidens shadowShe faced the challenge of shaking off the legacy of the Biden administration with its record of inflation and surging illegal migrationAll the aggregation of polls showed a tie between the two candidates which in turn points to a photo finishBy the time the first polling stations open at 5 AM 330 PM in India about 81 million voters of the total electorate of 1865 million about 43 per cent would already have cast their ballots through the early voting processThe results are unlikely to be known by the time the last polling stations in Alaska and Hawaii close at midnight 1030 AM Wednesday in India if the results are so close that the postal votes can make a difference to the resultsThe popular votes dont count as much as the candidates performance in the seven swing states which are not firmly entrenched on the side of either party and can therefore decide the winner because of the electoral college systemThe 538 electors in the electoral college who elect the President are distributed according to the size of the states and the winning candidate has to amass 278 electors with those from the swing states making a difference IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-election-polarised-us-goes-to-polls-in-air-of-uncertainty-580341.html Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-credits-pm-modis-leadership-for-deepening-india-australia-ties-579905.html Brisbane Nov 3 During his address to the Indian community in Brisbane External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar outlined four key factors behind the deepening IndiaAustralia relationship stressing the transformation in bilateral ties under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership There are four reasons PM Modi Australia the world and all of you Jaishankar remarked as he acknowledged the warm reception from the Indian diasporaJaishankar stressed the significance of his visit not only for inaugurating Indias fourth consulate in Brisbane but to fulfilling PM Modis commitment to the Indian communityYour presence effort and contribution have made this consulate possible I have come to redeem Prime Minister Modis promise made in public that he would open a consulate in Brisbane he saidReflecting on the 125000 Indians residing in Queensland including 1500016000 students Jaishankar highlighted the states economic importance to India noting that 75 per cent of Australias exports to India actually come from this stateThis cooperation he said should be viewed not merely as an achievement but as a framework for future growth Theres no doubt that the QUAD ranks right up there and Australia is a founding partner of that mechanism in terms of our bilateral ties he addedThe EAM described Indias designation of Australia as a comprehensive strategic partner as significant in diplomatic terms underscoring that such a term is reserved for only a few countries The more adjectives you add the weightier it gets he saidJaishankar also praised the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement ECTA for the positive impact it has had on trade and emphasised the importance of mobility migration and mutual recognition agreements specifically mentioning the MATES agreementRegarding Indias aspirations the EAM stated India will grow India is growing but India wants to grow with the world When we look at the world we see opportunities We are optimistic there may be problems but overall we think the world has goodwill The world has a desire to work with India We see a sentiment overall in the world for India to succeed and its important we harness that sentimentThis sentiment he explained aligns with the Government of Indias transformative policies which have spurred progress across sectors over the last decadeReflecting on these changes Jaishankar said In the last 10 years we have made significant progress through efforts that feed into each other making it easier to do business improving ease of living radically improving infrastructure with the Gati Shakti program establishing digital public infrastructure and improving governance quality overallHe further added that political stability has allowed for continuity in decisionmaking and policy implementationHighlighting the strides India has made in the last ten years Jaishankar noted Todays India is building 28 kilometres of highway daily 1214 kilometres of railway track every day and has expanded metro cities from 6 to 21 with 39 more planned The country had 75 airports a decade ago today it has nearly 150 with over 1000 planes on order from the global aviation industryHe also praised the advancements in education and initiatives such as the Ayushman Bharat scheme PM Vishwakarma Yojana Digital India and others supporting entrepreneurshipJaishankars visit to Brisbane marks the beginning of a twonation tour covering Australia until November 7 where he will cochair the 15th Foreign Ministers Framework Dialogue FMFD with Australian Foreign Minister Penny WongHe will also deliver the keynote address at the 2nd Raisina Down Under conference at the Australian Parliament House and engage with Australian leaders parliamentarians business representatives media and think tank membersAfter Australia Jaishankar will visit Singapore on November 8 to participate in the 8th ASEANIndia Network of Think Tanks Roundtable and meet Singaporean leaders to discuss ways to further strengthen the close partnership IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-credits-pm-modis-leadership-for-deepening-india-australia-ties-579905.html Sun, 03 Nov 2024 18:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/queens-medal-recipient-who-became-one-of-the-highest-ranking-sikh-women-in-uk-police-retires-576531.html Leicester Sep 29 Decorated cop Manjit Atwal who became one of the highestranking Sikh women in the UK police and served in various capacities from hostage negotiation to developing the forces response to sexual crimes has retired after nearly three decades in service Atwal who was the first Sikh woman police officer in Leicestershire and rose to the rank of Chief Superintendent recalls that there werent many people who looked like me and there were even fewer women when she joined service in 1996 the BBC reportedOver her nearly three decades of service she also spent 12 years working as a hostage negotiator and was honoured with the Queens Police Medal for Distinguished Service She had also contributed to Operation Soteria a national initiative aimed at improving the polices handling of rape and sexual offencesDwelling on the changes she had seen between when she had donned the uniform to now Atwal said There werent many people who looked like me and there were even fewer women Now we have many more women in the force Leicester is such a vibrant multicultural city and our police force must mirror the communities we serveOver the last 28 years there have been so many changes From the evolution of the uniform going from skirts to trousers to seeing more women in the force and advancements in technology Our workforce has become much more diverse as wellAtwal admitted that one of the most challenging aspects of her career was navigating her role as a woman of colour and a mother especially considering the demanding shift patterns at the timeBut I worked through those barriers and helped implement changes along the way she addedAtwal also expressed hope that one day there would be a Chief Constable from a minority communityChief Constable Rob Nixon praised her for building trust within the community which in turn strengthened the publics confidence in the forceInternally her legacy is inspiring staff and officers to join remain committed to the force and maintain a high level of integrity and community focus he saidAsked about her future plans Atwal revealed that she intends to take some personal timeAs I progressed in my career my children grew up Now I have grandchildren and I want to spend more time with them and my family I also want to reinvent myself in this new chapter of my life as the new Manjit she revealed IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/queens-medal-recipient-who-became-one-of-the-highest-ranking-sikh-women-in-uk-police-retires-576531.html Sun, 29 Sep 2024 18:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/preparations-underway-to-welcome-pm-modi-to-diaspora-event-in-new-york-574565.html Uniondale Sep 20 Final preparations are afoot to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a diaspora rally on Sunday when more than 16000 people will gather at the Nassau Coliseum here The programme is sandwiched between his participation in the Quad summit convened by US President Joe Biden in Delaware on Saturday and his address to the United Nations Summit of the Future on MondayThe organisers were overwhelmed by the number of people who wanted to attend the event billed as Modi and US Progress Together according to Avinash Gupta the President of the tristate chapter of the Federation of Indian Associations FIAMore than 25000 applications were received for the event and the organisers had to winnow it down to about 16000 to fit the venue he saidA cultural programme will be held before Prime Minister Modis speechGupta said that 159 applications were received for participating in the cultural programme and 15 were selectedPriority was given to childrens performances and these will reflect the diversity of Indias culture he saidBecause the event is taking place only 44 days before the US election there wont be any politicians on the stage though some may come as audience participants he saidPrime Ministers Anthony Albanese of Australia and Fumio Kishida of Japan will represent their countries at the summit of the fourmember group formally known as the Quadrilateral Security DialogueThe Summit of the Future aims to bring world leaders to map the UNs agenda to meet our existing international commitments and take concrete steps to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities according to the organisationWhile in New York Prime Minister Modi is expected to hold meetings with world leaders who will be attending the summit the Ministry of External Affairs saidFormer President Donald Trump who is the Republican Party presidential candidate said that he will be meeting Prime Minister ModiHe held a rally on Wednesday at the Nassau Coliseum where Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to speak on Sunday IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/preparations-underway-to-welcome-pm-modi-to-diaspora-event-in-new-york-574565.html Fri, 20 Sep 2024 03:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/former-ktaka-cm-amp-mp-basavaraj-bommai-pays-homage-to-basaveshwara-statue-in-london-573219.html Bengaluru Sep 14 Former Chief Minister of Karnataka and BJP Member of Parliament Basavaraj Bommai who is currently on a visit to London with his family paid homage to the statue of Basaveshwara in London on Saturday The event was jointly organised by the Lambeth Basaveshwara Foundation and the Basava Samiti of the UK Dignitaries from Kannada Balaga Kannadigas UK and the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan participated in the eventBasavaraj Bommai attended the event with his wife Chennamma and other family members The members who attended the programme displayed the Tricolour and also held placards bearing the messages of Basaveshwara such as work is worshipDr Neeraj Patil former Mayor of Lambeth along with Basava Samiti officials Abhijit Saliyant and Ranganath Mirji welcomed the guests representing the British Indian and Kannada communities at the eventThe Lambeth Basaveshwara Foundation has decided to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the historical memorial An official invitation letter was handed over through former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai requesting PM Modi to attend the anniversary eventUnveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 14 2015 this historic statue is one of the first conceptual monuments endorsed by the British Cabinet under the UK Statutes Act 1854The Lambeth Basaveshwara Foundation also noted that the Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi paid his respects to Lord Basaveshwaras statue on March 5 2023 Former Deputy Mayor of London Rajesh Agrawal was present on the occasionBasaveshwara or Basavanna is renowned as the founder of the Lingayat sect which revolted against traditional Hindu caste discrimination Basavanna is also known for his spiritual ideology and social reforms IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/former-ktaka-cm-amp-mp-basavaraj-bommai-pays-homage-to-basaveshwara-statue-in-london-573219.html Sat, 14 Sep 2024 11:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/admire-her-infectious-laugh-putin-says-backing-kamala-harris-in-us-polls-570761.html Vladivostok Sep 5 Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday said that he prefers Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming US presidential polls and praised her infectious laugh Participating at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok the Russian leader who had earlier this year noted that he would back President Joe Biden who is a more experienced predictable person a politician of the old school said that he respected Bidens choice to endorse her as his successor RT reportedHe said that he admired the infectious laugh of Harris whose mother was Indian and is the first Asian American and African American candidate for the top US postHarris laughs so infectiously that it suggests everything is going well for her he said at a plenary session of the forum to a query whether he had a favourite candidate in the election now that Biden who he previously supported has dropped out He was also asked whether or not he would call to congratulate the eventual winner in NovemberPutin said it had been a long time since he had any direct contact with Western European or US leaders and noted that it was not up to Russia to choose a favourite in the US presidential election as this is a task for American votersNevertheless he recalled that he had previously expressed support for Biden who had since been removed from the race However the President noted that Biden had told his supporters to support Harris in the race and so Moscow would do the same and root for the Vice President in NovemberHe also suggested that Harris positive disposition could mean that she would refrain from imposing as many sanctions on Russia as former US President Donald Trump who Putin said had introduced more restrictions on Moscow than any other President in American history at the timeIn the end the choice is up to the American people and we will treat their eventual decision with respect he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/admire-her-infectious-laugh-putin-says-backing-kamala-harris-in-us-polls-570761.html Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/heavy-rains-floods-wreak-havoc-in-parts-of-telangana-570003.html Hyderabad Sep 2 Heavy rains have wreaked havoc in parts of Telangana inundating towns and villages and claimed at least 15 lives since Saturday officials said Five persons were missing in various rainrelated incidents in the state which witnessed record rainfall at a few places under the impact of depression in the Bay of BengalThe rains and flood fury caused widespread damages in combined Khammam Warangal and Nalgonda districtsAt least 15 residential colonies in Khammam town remained underwater on Monday due to the overflowing Munneru RiverMore than 100 villages in Khammam district also remained submerged while authorities were continuing rescue and relief works in the worstaffected areasOfficials say heavy rainfall in a short span of time triggered the flash floods At least eight places received 4052 centimetres of rainfall Kakarvai in Khammam district recorded 5219 centimetres of rainfallOverflowing lakes ponds tanks and streams inundated villages and lowlying areas in town Munnery River a tributary of Krishna witnessed unprecedented floods leading to the inundation of residential colonies in Khammam townDeputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy were supervising rescue and relief operations in KhammamWith the Met Office issuing a red alert for a few districts the government declared a holiday for all educational institutions as a precautionary measureChief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Monday visited the Command and Control Room in Hyderabad to monitor the rescue and relief operationHe held a meeting with top officials to review the situation and assess the damages caused by heavy rains and floods Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy and Industry Minister D Sridhar Babu attended the meetingChief Secretary Santhi Kumari Director General of Police Jitender and other senior officials were also presentAfter the review the Chief Minister will leave for Khammam by road to visit the floodaffected areasPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke to the Chief Minister over the phone and assured him all the help from the Centre in tackling the situationEarlier Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Revanth Reddy and enquired about the flood situation IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/heavy-rains-floods-wreak-havoc-in-parts-of-telangana-570003.html Mon, 02 Sep 2024 12:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/how-india-and-poland-connected-through-kabaddi-567904.html Warsaw Poland Aug 22 India and Poland are more than 6000 kilometres apart from each other separated by continents seas and oceans but are connected by a single thread the sport of kabaddi The game that originated in the ruler hinterland of the country is now an upcoming sport that has caught the imagination of Polish youngsters and has resulted in the European nation winning titles in Europe and representing the continent in the Kabaddi World Cups The kabaddi connection between the two countries was brought to light by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday PM Modi who is on an official visit to Poland revealed the connection between the countries through kabaddi during his addressWe are connected through the game of Kabaddi as well This game reached Poland through India and they took it to great heights Poland is going to host the Kabaddi championship for the first time I want to wish good luck to their team the Prime Minister said while delivering his keynote address at a function celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and PolandTo take forward the sports connection between the two countries PM Modi will be meeting the captains of Polands mens and womens Kabaddi teams on ThursdayKabaddi is quite popular in Poland as it resembles the European game of tag and wrestling and they are the current European Champions Michal Spickzo from Poland was the first European to play in the Pro Kabaddi League PKL the fastestgrowing professional league in the countryIt was introduced in Poland when a sportsperson from India Abhishek Sharma decided to start a club With the support of the International Kabaddi Federation IKF member Ashok Das Abhishek Sharma who moved to Poland in 2007 after completing his MS course in BioTechnology started the Kabaddi Project in 2010 Since then Sharma has poured all the money he earned into popularising kabaddi and has brought the sport to this stageThe Poland mens national team qualified and played in the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup in Ahmedabad India and caused a sensation by defeating the then World Champions Iran in a preliminary group matchThough they finished fourth in the group and failed to advance to the next stage the result showed that Kabaddi has a bright future in PolandThe current visit by Prime Minister Modi is sure to further strengthen the connection between the two countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/how-india-and-poland-connected-through-kabaddi-567904.html Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ram-mandir-float-joins-diaspora-celebration-of-nations-diversity-at-new-york-india-day-parade-566981.html New York Aug 19 The Indian diaspora joyously celebrated their homelands cultural richness and religious diversity at the 42nd India Day Parade honouring the nations Independence A float depicting the Ayodhya Ram Mandir was featured in the parade on Sunday along with tableaus of Muslims Christians and Sikhs while groups of Indian Jews and Buddhists marched under their bannersMen and women in a cascade of colours beat traditional drums from Maharashtra heralding the Ram Mandir float and along the route people rushed spontaneously past barriers to greet itThe parade with thousands marching and many more watching it wended along Madison Avenue in a kaleidoscope of colour rejecting attempts by a group led by a Muslim organisation to disrupt itThe Indian American Muslim Council organised a campaign with other groups which said they were representing Sikhs Christians and Hindus against the Ram Mandir float calling it Muslim hate bigotry and appealing to public officials to ban itBut the confluence of Indias diversity of religions regions and languages at the parade jubilantly proclaiming the nations unity was a contrast to their targeted attacks on the Ram Mandir amplified by thinly veiled Hinduphobia in the US media that had declared ahead of the event that it was controversial or marred by the floats presenceSwami Adveshanand Giri the head of the Juna Akhada said to be the oldest and largest organisation of sanyasis was the chief guest while actress Sonakshi Sinha was the Grand Marshal and actor Zahir Iqbal was the VIP guestThe New York Police Department sent a contingent of officers and their band to march in the parade NY Police Department Desi Society marched with their own bannerA group holding the Indian tricolour was flanked by two mounted policeStop Hindu Genocide in Bangladesh was the theme of a float calling for an end to attacks on the minority community in that countryOne of those protesting against the Ram Mandir float was a Bangladeshi American City Council member Shahana HanifA man with an Israeli flag joined the group holding the floats antigenocide bannerAt several points along the parade route Jews and Israelis who are also the targets of the groups ideologically similar to those campaigning against the Ram Mandir float waved Israeli flags and cheeredThe International Organisation of Bene Israel USA representing the Jews of India was one of the groups of marchersThere was a float dedicated to Guru Teg Bahadur another from Muslims for Peace proclaimed Love to All Hatred to None while one from the National Association of Indian Christians in the USA said Jesus will bring good newsA float depicting B R Ambedkar the architect of Indias Constitution and a Dalit with links to the city where he studied was accompanied by people distributing his tract on ending casteismA group demanding justice for the woman doctor recently raped and killed in Kolkatta walked in the paradeMany organisations like those of doctors businesses and media also had floatsSeveral Indian folk dances and music added to the parades festivityThe protests against the parade did not materialise save for a video truck hired by the Indian American Muslim Council displaying its messages New Yorkers Say No Place for Islamophobhia and NY Against Hindutva that drove around before the parade started IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ram-mandir-float-joins-diaspora-celebration-of-nations-diversity-at-new-york-india-day-parade-566981.html Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/new-york-is-new-delhi-of-america-says-citys-mayor-praising-diaspora-contributions-566558.html New York Aug 17 New York City is the New Delhi of America the citys Mayor Eric Adams said at the hoisting of the Indian tricolour on Independence Day praising the diasporas contributions to the city This is the oldest democracy so we should be proud to lift this flag up in the democracy of New York City and I call on the community to continue to inspire and achieve at the highest levels he said at the ceremony in the historic Bowling GreenBowling Green had a symbolic role in the US quest for independence like India from Britain The statue of King George III at the site was torn down by patriots soon after the Declaration of Independence was read out to the freedomfighting troops rallied under George Washington in 1776The flag hoisting was arranged by the Indian Cultural Association of North America and was attended by several city officials including Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi the first IndianAmerican to hold that postWhen you look at the number of professional business owners health professionals in the medical field educators teachers it shows the clear presence of the Indian community Adams saidYou do us proud here in this city and in our entire countryRecalling his visit to India where he visited the Gandhi Smriti in New Delhi where Mahatma Gandhi took his final steps before the assassination he said We have a responsibility and obligation to continue those footsteps we have to fulfill what he thought we should do as we lift up humanityConsul General Binaya Srikanta Pradhan said that along with Independence Day the fabulous journey India has made in 78 years its growth story and the rise of IndianAmerica partnershipIf President Joe Biden says that this is the most consequential partnership of the 21st century we in India echo that he saidWe believe that it has reached a point of inflectionAnother flaghoisting ceremony was held at Times Square with Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita participatingOn the eve of Independence Day Partition Horrors Remembrance Day was observed at Indias Consulate General where a photo exhibit on the subject was installedMargherita spoke on the occasion about the resilience and courage of the survivors who persevered and rebuilt their lives overcoming the horrors inflicted on them IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/new-york-is-new-delhi-of-america-says-citys-mayor-praising-diaspora-contributions-566558.html Sat, 17 Aug 2024 08:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/australian-hindus-rally-for-persecuted-bangladeshi-hindus-urge-global-action-566583.html Melbourne Aug 17 The Hindu community held rallies across Australia on Saturday calling for global awareness and action against ongoing attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh The rallies took place in several cities including Melbourne Sydney and Brisbane and saw participation from people of all ages from children to the elderlyIn Melbourne a large group of Hindus gathered at Treasury Gardens near the Victorian Parliament House to raise their voices against the persecution of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh according to a statement by Hindus of Australia on XDespite the unfavourable weather the spirit of the Hindu community in Melbourne remained unshaken everyone showed solidarity with Bangladeshi Hindus a powerful display of unity and resilience informed Hindus of Australia on XSimilarly a rally in Sydney emphasised these sentiments while an earlier rally in Brisbane on Friday highlighted the dangers faced by the Hindu community in BangladeshHindus of Australia on X appreciated the bravery of those attending the rally despite the potential risks their families might face back home due to their absenceThe Bangladesh HinduBuddhistChristian Oikya Parishad had sent an open letter to Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh Muhammad Yunus expressing profound sorrow and concern over a particular groups unprecedented violence against the minoritiesThe letter mentioned that the communal violence which began immediately after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left Dhaka has caused widespread fear anxiety and uncertainty among the Hindus and other minorities in BangladeshAccording to organisational details and media reports thousands of Hindu families have become destitute while many temples have been attacked and burned Numerous women have faced assaults and there have been murders in several places Other minorities have also suffered during this period it saidSimilarly the Bangladesh Hindu Jagran Mancha has also organised processions and rallies to protest against the recent vandalism arson looting and attacks on the Hindu community across the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/australian-hindus-rally-for-persecuted-bangladeshi-hindus-urge-global-action-566583.html Sat, 17 Aug 2024 10:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/blinken-sends-wishes-on-i-day-says-us-india-ties-stronger-than-ever-before-566166.html Washington Aug 15 US Secretary of State Antony Blinken extended his congratulations to India on its 78th Independence Day emphasising the strength of IndiaUS bilateral cooperation in a statement released on Thursday On this momentous day we celebrate the rich and diverse history of the Indian people and the bright future of USIndian relations Our comprehensive global and strategic partnership is grounded in the deep bonds between our peoples our economies and built on the foundation of our shared commitment to democracy freedom and human dignity Blinken said in a statementHe also highlighted the rapidly expanding cooperation between the two nations saying We continue to work together to advance our shared vision of a free open stable and prosperous IndoPacificSpeaking on the USIndia ties Blinken said From climate and clean energy to defence and space technologies USIndian bilateral cooperation is more wideranging and stronger than ever before I wish all those celebrating today in India in the United States and globally through the Indian diaspora a joyous Independence DayPM Narendra Modi is also scheduled to hold a mass meeting with the Indian diaspora when he visits New York next month for the annual United Nations summitThe meeting will be a celebration of the achievements of the Indian diaspora in the US and the peopletopeople links between the US and India that are bringing the two nations closerPM Modi will be in New York for the week of highlevel meetings at the United Nations from September 22 to 28 starting with the Summit of the FutureHe is scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 26India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day with this years theme being Viksit Bharat 2047 which highlights the governments ambition to make India a developed nation by the centenary of its independencePM Modi in his IDay speech emphasised Viksit Bharat 2047 are not mere words they are a reflection of the resolve and dreams of 140 crore people IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/blinken-sends-wishes-on-i-day-says-us-india-ties-stronger-than-ever-before-566166.html Thu, 15 Aug 2024 15:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indias-78th-independence-day-celebrated-globally-with-cultural-fervour-566232.html New Delhi Aug 15 India marked its 78th Independence Day on Thursday with a series of vibrant events organised by Indian Embassies and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations ICCR across the world The celebrations reflected the spirit of patriotism and unity among the Indian diaspora and friends of India globally In Nepal Ambassador Naveen Srivastava hoisted the national flag at a ceremony attended by members of the Indian community friends of India and Embassy officials along with their familiesThe event featured stirring renditions of patriotic songs and dance performances by teachers and students of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center and Kendriya Vidyalaya KathmanduIn Israel Ambassador Sanjeev Sinha hoisted the Tricolour after the national anthem extending warm greetings to the Indian communityOn the occasion of the 78th Independence Day of India I extend my warm felicitations and greetings to all fellow Indians living in Israel Along with my colleagues at the Embassy of India I wish you a very happy Independence Day he saidHowever due to the prevailing security situation the celebrations were kept limited with hopes of a larger gathering next time he addedIn the Netherlands The Gandhi Centre celebrated the occasion with dynamic performances emphasising the role of art in Indias freedom struggle and fostering a sense of unity among the attendeesIn Saudi Arabia a series of cultural performances filled with patriotic fervour were presented by Indian students and community members showcasing Indias rich cultural heritageIn Japan Ambassador Sibi George engaged with Indian school students during the Independence Day celebrations at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo On the occasion children performed patriotic songs adding to the atmosphere of national prideThe global celebrations not only honoured Indias independence but also reinforced the cultural ties that bind the Indian diaspora with their homeland IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indias-78th-independence-day-celebrated-globally-with-cultural-fervour-566232.html Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/president-murmu-arrives-in-timor-leste-on-last-leg-of-three-nation-visit-565000.html Dili Aug 10 President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Dili TimorLeste on Saturday on the last leg of her threenation visit This marks the firstever visit by the Indian head of state to the Southeast Asian country Upon arriving at the airport she was warmly welcomed by President Jose RamosHorta and school children who greeted herPresident Droupadi Murmu arrived in Dili TimorLeste on the last leg of her threenation visit In a special gesture she was warmly received by President Jose RamosHorta of TimorLeste at the airport Cheerful children greeted her on the way from the airport the Presidents office said in a post on XLater in the day President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with her Timorese counterpart Jose RamosHorta after which Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao will call on her seeking to enhance their bilateral ties furtherThe President will also attend a community reception with the Indian diaspora in TimorLeste according to the Ministry of External Affairs MEAEarlier President Murmu visited Fiji and New Zealand during her threenation visit where she discussed bilateral ties and cooperation across various sectorsAdditionally Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji the highest civilian award in the country upon the Indian PresidentShe also reiterated Indias commitment as a powerful voice of the Global South to climate justice promising to push for climate finance and technology for developing countriesMEA said earlier this week that the State Visit by President Murmu to Fiji New Zealand and TimorLeste underscores the importance India attaches to its bilateral relations with these countries and reflects New Delhis strong focus on the Act East policy which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/president-murmu-arrives-in-timor-leste-on-last-leg-of-three-nation-visit-565000.html Sat, 10 Aug 2024 10:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/prez-murmu-holds-bilateral-talks-with-timorese-pm-addresses-indian-diaspora-565085.html Dili East Timor Aug 10 President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of East Timor Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao after she arrived in Dili on the last leg of her threenation visit Both the leaders underscored the significance of a warm and cordial relationship between India and East Timor based on shared values of democracy and pluralityDuring the meeting they also discussed wideranging issues focusing on boosting bilateral tiesApart from this three agreements were signed during the meeting in the areas of cultural exchanges radio broadcasting and visa exemption for holders of diplomatic official and service passportsPresident Murmu also interacted with the Indian community in Dili at a reception hosted in her honourWe stand ready to work with TimorLeste in our shared desire for progress and development the President saidShe also announced that India would soon establish an Embassy in East TimorLauding the Indian diaspora for their achievements and urging them to continue to play an active part in strengthening IndianTimor ties she said The achievements of our diaspora community have been a matter of great pride for India and we consider you as a living bridgeThe President also participated in a public conversation with Timorese President Jose RamosHorta on The Horta Show and spoke of her political journey to becoming the President of India Indias rich cultural heritage and shared perspectives on women in leadership rolesPresident Murmu was also conferred the GrandCollar of the Order of TimorLeste the countrys highest civilian award by President Jose RamosHorta in recognition of her achievements in public service and dedication to education social welfare and empowerment of womenThe President also held a bilateral meeting with her Timorese counterpart underlining the strong connection and cooperation between the two democratic nations and discussed opportunities for enhancing bilateral ties Both the leaders also discussed the possibility of East Timor joining the International Solar AllianceEarlier this week President Murmu visited Fiji and New Zealand during her threenation visit where she discussed bilateral ties and cooperation across various sectorsThe Ministry of External Affairs MEA said earlier this week that the State Visit by President Murmu to Fiji New Zealand and TimorLeste underscores the importance India attaches to its bilateral relations with these countries and reflects New Delhis strong focus on the Act East policy which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the ninth East Asia Summit in 2014 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/prez-murmu-holds-bilateral-talks-with-timorese-pm-addresses-indian-diaspora-565085.html Sat, 10 Aug 2024 17:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bodies-of-3-rsthan-youth-who-died-in-dubai-brought-back-after-32-days-565094.html Jaipur Aug 10 The bodies of three friends from Rajasthan who died in Dubai under mysterious circumstances reached India on Saturday 32 days after their deaths The three were working as cooks in the UAE and had spoken to their families at night However they died the same night While two of them died in their room the third passed away in a hospital while undergoing treatmentTheir bodies reached Ahmedabad on Saturday from where they were taken to the native place in Udaipur districtOn Saturday morning at around 11 oclock the bodies of Parshuram 20 and Ramchandra 32 arrived at their native placeThe body of Shyamlal 27 son of Bhima Gurjar will reach his village by eveningThe bodies of the deceased reached Ahmedabad Gujarat airport from Dubai on Friday night at 2 am by an Emirates flight from where the bodies were taken to Vallabhnagar in three ambulancesAll three lived in the same room in Dubai and on the night of July 6 the three of them spoke to their family members via video call They then had dinner and went to sleep Parashram and Ramchandra Janwa died in the room while Shyamlal died in the hospital during treatment It is said that the postmortem report has pinpointed the cause of death to be poison However the investigation agencies in Dubai ruled out any conspiracy angle in this case The paperwork delayed the bodies being sent backRamchandra had gone to Dubai on June 26 He had been working there for the last six years Parasram had gone to Dubai 8 months ago to work as a cook His father Hemraj is from a BPL family Shyamlal had been living in Dubai for a long time All three worked as cooks IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/bodies-of-3-rsthan-youth-who-died-in-dubai-brought-back-after-32-days-565094.html Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-lawmakers-call-for-congressional-hearings-on-attacks-on-hindus-in-bangladesh-565114.html New York Aug 10 Indian American members of the House of Representatives have called for Congressional hearings on the targeted violence against Hindus in Bangladesh When the Congress returns from recess we must hold hearings to learn more about the failures to protect the Hindus and other minority groups in Bangladesh and how to prevent such actions from happening in the future Shri Thanedar said in a letter to Secretary of State Antony BlinkenHe and another Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi appealed to Blinken in separate letters to urge the administration of Muhammad Yunus to end the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh in the aftermath of Shiekh Hasinas resignation as prime minister and her exile to IndiaYunus the Nobel Prizewinning microfinancing pioneer took over as the interim leader of Bangladesh in the midst of the chaos from the violent studentled uprisingWhile violence directed against the government has generally abated Hindus their business and temples have become targets for attacksThanedar also asked Blinken to give temporary protected status to Bangladesh Hindus and other minorities which would allow those here to stay on here even if their visas have expired till it is safe for them to return homeKrishnamoorthi said in his letter Instability in this region fueled by religious intolerance and violence is not in the interest of the United States or our alliesI urge you to directly engage directly with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus government and exert our influence to help his government end the violence and bring those responsible to justice he wroteThanedar wrote The US has an obligation to assist this new government to ensure that the violence and civil unrest comes to an endI urge the President Joe Biden administration to grant persecuted Bangladeshi Hindus and other religious minorities temporary protected status as refugees he addedKrishnamoorthi referred in his letter to the credible eyewitness reports in Western media including The New York Times and the BBC documenting the massive attacks in Dhaka major cities and several districtsHe said that according to the minorities organisation Hindu Buddhis Christian Unity Council HinduBouddhaChristian Oikya Parisha the antiHindu violence has spread to 45 out of the nations 64 districts this weekSadly this is not the first time that antigovernment protests have metastasised into antiHindu violence he wrote recalling the riots in 2021 2017 and 2013 in which scores of Hindus were killed or disappearedMeanwhile a group representing Hindu and minority groups met this week with US Ambassador for International Religious Freedom Rashad Hussein to urge Washington to ensure the protection of minorities in BangladeshAfter the meeting the Hindu American Foundations Director of Policy Research Anita Joshi said that they told Husseian that the United States silence in response to the violence against Hindus and other religious minorities in Bangladesh has been deafening The failure of Congress and this administration to acknowledge and condemn the violence against Hindus and other religious minorities is unacceptableThe others who met the religious freedom official were Utsav Chakrabarti Executive Director of HinduACTion Human Rights Collective for Bangladesh Minorities Executive Director Priya Saha and geopolitical analyst Jay KansaraEarlier this week HinduBouddhaChristian Oikya Parishad leader Rana Dasgupta said that about 100 Hindus have been injured and two killed and at least 10 temples were attackedArul Louis can be contacted at arulliansin and followed at arulouis IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-lawmakers-call-for-congressional-hearings-on-attacks-on-hindus-in-bangladesh-565114.html Sat, 10 Aug 2024 22:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/cong-mp-suresh-seeks-evacuation-of-indians-from-strife-torn-bangladesh-564368.html New Delhi Aug 7 Congress MP K Suresh on Wednesday demanded that Indians living in strifetorn Bangladesh be evacuate from the country The condition of Bangladesh is very critical the crisis is still prevailing We are very concerned about those people who are living and studying there K Suresh told IANSIn a plea to the Centre the Congress MP said I appeal to the government of India to ensure the safety and security of Indians in BangladeshDwelling on External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankars statement in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh Suresh said The Congress party is with the government and whatever they will decide we are in favour of itEarlier on Tuesday EAM Jaishankar expressed Indias deep concern over the attacks on minorities their businesses and temples at multiple locations in the neighbouring countryJaishankars remarks came a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister and reached India following massive violence in Dhaka and several other parts of Bangladesh over the quota issueProperties of individuals associated with the regime were torched across the country What was particularly worrying was that minorities their businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations The full extent of this is still not clear the EAM said while detailing the events since August 4 when things took a very serious turn in BangladeshAsserting that the Indian government remains in regular touch with the authorities in Dhaka Jaishankar said that New Delhi expects the host government to provide required security protection to Indian establishments in Bangladesh besides ensuring the protection and wellbeing of minoritiesMeanwhile on Wednesday the bodies of 29 people including 20 Awami League leaders were found across the country local media reported on WednesdayAt least 10 people were killed in violencehit Satkhira and 11 more lost their lives in mob attacks in ComillaPolice have also reported incidents of arson across multiple cities Eyewitnesses recounted an attack on the house of former councillor Md Shah Alam in Ashoktala which was set ablaze by an angry mob IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/cong-mp-suresh-seeks-evacuation-of-indians-from-strife-torn-bangladesh-564368.html Wed, 07 Aug 2024 12:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/president-murmu-accorded-warm-send-off-as-she-departs-fiji-564390.html Suva Aug 7 President Droupadi Murmu received a warm sendoff from Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad at Nadi airport as she concluded her state visit to Fiji on Wednesday Earlier in the day President Murmu paid her respects at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi which is one of the largest Hindu temples in the PacificShe was warmly welcomed by members of the Fijian Indian community at the templeThis visit by the President was focused on further strengthening the cultural ties between the two nationsOn Tuesday President Murmu was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka Fijis Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji P S Karthikeyan and other government officials at the airport as she arrived in Suva on the first leg of her threenation visitFijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji the highest civilian award in the country upon the Indian PresidentPresident Murmu expressed her gratitude for the conferment saying it is a reflection of the deep ties between the two nations She also thanked President Katonivere for inviting her on her first visit to FijiLater addressing the Fijian Parliament she reiterated Indias commitment as a powerful voice of the Global South to climate justice promising to push for climate finance and technology for developing countriesWe will continue to stand shouldertoshoulder with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice she addedDuring her visit she also announced new projects including a Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva to meet the needs of the Fijian people and the wider Pacific regionPresident Murmu has now left for Auckland for a threeday state visit to New Zealand at the invitation of Governor General Dame Cindy KiroShe will hold bilateral meetings with the Governor General and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/president-murmu-accorded-warm-send-off-as-she-departs-fiji-564390.html Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/revanth-reddy-urges-telugu-diaspora-to-become-partners-in-telanganas-development-564075.html Hyderabad Aug 5 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has called on the Telugu diaspora in the United States to become partners in the development of the state and contribute to the governments efforts to attract investments The Chief Minister who is currently on a visit to the United States addressed Telugu NRIs at a programme in New JerseyAccording to the Chief Ministers Office CMO here on Monday he was welcomed by the NRIs with a huge rallyRevanth Reddy said the government will come out with a new industrial policy keeping in view the future requirements and to expeditiously achieve inclusive economic developmentHe said besides mobilising funds the government will focus on employment and skill developmentPraising the NRIs he said with their skills and talent they helped to develop the US into a strong and wealthy nation He urged them to now become partners in the development of TelanganaThe government is creating a special mechanism to attract investments by dividing Telangana into Metro Core Urban Semi Urban and Rural clusters he saidWhile interacting with people from the Indian community on the US East Coast the Chief Minister said his government would develop a fourth city near Hyderabad as the future cityRevanth Reddy recalled that he had visited the US last year as the president of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee I had promised that I would come again after liberating Telangana from misgovernance and destruction of 10 years and after bringing the Congress to power I have fulfilled that promise he saidHe reiterated that his government would fulfil every promise made to the people The government has already taken many steps for the welfare and development of farmers women and youth Schemes like crop loan waiver of up to Rs2 lakh Rythu Bharosa for input subsidy to farmers jobs to unemployed free bus travel for women gas cylinder for Rs500 free electricity for poor up to 200 units per month promotion for teachers and quality education for students have been implementedAccording to the CMO the NRIs hailed the efforts of Revanth Reddy to fulfil the commitments made to the people They lauded the efforts to develop Hyderabad and praised the plans They assured him that they would work with the government to attract investments for Hyderabad IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/revanth-reddy-urges-telugu-diaspora-to-become-partners-in-telanganas-development-564075.html Mon, 05 Aug 2024 17:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-charged-with-stealing-1-mn-lottery-ticket-in-us-562132.html New York July 26 An Indianorigin man has been charged with stealing a 1 millionwinning lottery ticket from the buyer at the petrol bunk he was working in according to local officials Meer Patel 23 was arrested and charged with the theft on Monday and the buyer of the ticket was notified of his winning Rutherford County Sheriffs Office saidThe alleged theft had taken place in the petrol bunk in Murfreesboro in Tennesee state where Patel was employedWhen the man who bought the ticket asked him to check if the ticket had won anything by scanning it he allegedly said it had won a lower amount which he paid the customer and threw in the trash according to Detective Steve Craig quoted by Cheatham County Exchange newspaperAfter the man left the store Patel picked it out of the trash scratched the hidden part to find the winning amount on the ticket and took it to the lottery office where the staff became suspicious the publication said quoting officialsInvestigators from the state lottery seized the videos in the petrol bunks cameras which showed him picking the ticket out of the trash and celebrating in the store after scratching off the front of the ticket and learning it was a 1 million winner Investigator Vic Donoho told the publicationThe Sheriffs Office was informed and Patel was arrestedMeanwhile Craig and Donoho went through the store videos to identify the buyer and informed him of his luckThe feelgood side of this story is the the man never knew he was the winner until we made contact with him Craig told the publicationThat is absolutely lifechanging moneyArul Louis can be contacted at arulliansin and followed at arulouis IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-charged-with-stealing-1-mn-lottery-ticket-in-us-562132.html Fri, 26 Jul 2024 04:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/punjab-to-adopt-kerala-model-to-curb-illegal-migration-minister-562104.html Chandigarh July 25 Punjab NRIs Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal on Thursday announced that the state would adopt the Kerala model to check illegal migration as well as to ensure basic facilities to the NRIs The announcement came during Dhaliwals visit to Kerala where he studied initiatives of the NORKA NonResident Keralites Affairs DepartmentDhaliwal praised the Kerala model for its effective measures in preventing illegal migration and ensuring the safe and legal migration of workers He exhorted that Punjab would replicate similar strategies to protect its citizens from illegal migration and ensure their welfareThe Punjab government will establish a dedicated agency similar to NORKA to regulate migration and provide support to Punjabi NRIs he said adding that the agency will focus on preventing illegal migration promoting safe and legal migration providing welfare services to NRIs and enhancing skill development and employment opportunitiesThe minister assured the state is committed to safeguarding the interests of its people and will take all necessary steps to prevent illegal migrationThe field agency of the NORKA Department is implementing various government plans schemes and welfare initiatives for the benefit of the diaspora The agency is working to ensure that the diaspora community has access to various government programmes and services These initiatives aim to improve the lives of nonresident Keralites and provide them with necessary support and assistance IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/punjab-to-adopt-kerala-model-to-curb-illegal-migration-minister-562104.html Thu, 25 Jul 2024 23:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/another-hindu-temple-in-canada-vandalised-mp-calls-for-action-561368.html New Delhi July 23 A Hindu temple in Albertas capital Edmonton was vandalised with hateful graffiti on Tuesday This incident adds to the series of attacks that have happened recently on Hindu establishments in Canada Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya took to X to express his concern over BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir that was defacedHe wrote During the last few years Hindu temples in Greater Toronto Area British Columbia and other places in Canada are being vandalised with hateful graffitiDrawing attention to the extremist elements instigating such incidents the Liberal MP known for his advocacy on multicultural issues highlighted that Gurpatwant Singh Pannun of Sikhs for Justice last year publicly called for Hindus to go back to India Khalistan supporters publicly celebrated in Brampton and Vancouver the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi brandishing images of deadly weaponsAs I have always been saying Khalistani extremists seem to get away with ease with their public rhetoric of hate and violence he asserted adding Again let me put on record HinduCanadians are legitimately concernedWith a picture of the defaced temple wall he concluded his post by urging Like a broken record I again call on Canadian law enforcement agencies to take this issue seriously before these rhetorics get translated into physical action against HinduCanadiansThe vandalised temple wall reads PM Modi MP Arya Hindu Terrorists are AntiCanadaLast year in November CanadaIndia Foundation an advocacy body had asked politicians in the country to break their silence and rein in radicals before it got too late However Canadian politicians and media ignored the threatIn response to the situation they had expressed in an open letter We are even more disappointed that our political leaders have maintained a total silence on this grave issue This selective approach to dealing with terrorism and threats will not make this world a safe placeIn recent times vandalised Hindu temples include Ram Mandir in Mississauga Vishnu Mandir in Richmond Hill BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Toronto Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in SurreyThese attacks are viewed as attacks on the freedom of religion and are perceived as a dangerous trend The advocacy body also highlighted that the extremists have started to even target ordinary Hindus telling them to leave Canada IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/another-hindu-temple-in-canada-vandalised-mp-calls-for-action-561368.html Tue, 23 Jul 2024 10:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kamala-harris-stands-to-make-history-again-as-biden-drops-out-endorses-her-561066.html Washington July 22 US VicePresident Kamala Harris stands once again on the edge of history in a political career replete with milestones President Joe Bidens exit from the White House race and endorsement of Kamala Harris make her the top contender for his mantle as the Democratic partys nominee for President which will make her the first African American woman the first Asian American and the first Indian American to claim and win if she does a major political partys nomination for President the highest political office in AmericaHarris has already won the endorsements of President Biden former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Endorsements are pouring in from other Democrats both lawmakers and party officialsIf Harris wins the nomination and goes on to win the race the 47th US President will be the first woman PresidentHarris already comes with a clutch of firsts the first woman the first African American the first Asian American and the first Indian American to hold the vicepresidency of the United StatesMarried to Douglas Emhoff she is 59 years of age considerably younger than both Biden 81 who she hopes to succeed on the ticket and former President Donald Trump the Republican nominee who is 78Born to a mother from Indias Tamil Nadu and father from Jamaica Harris has been a trailblazer in US politics cutting her teeth as a state prosecutor in California She went on to win two terms as Attorney General of California She ran for the US Senate in 2016 and won the same year when Donald Trump beat Democratic nominee Hillary ClintonAs Senator Harris became known for a strict and nononsense style of interrogating witnesses at hearings and confirmation hearings Youve been speaking for almost eight hours to this committee about all sorts of things you remember Harris said to Brett Kavanaugh Trumps nominee for Supreme Court in September 2018 How can you not remember whether or not you had a conversation about Robert Mueller or his investigation with anyone at that law firm This was said with reference to former FBI Director Muller who investigated Trump campaigns Russia links as a special prosecutorHarris had her sight on a higher office and became one of the first to throw her hat into the ring for the 2020 Democratic presidential nominee to take on Trump She flamed out early as well after a debate in which she accused Biden who was also in the race which he went on to win and win the White House of working with US Senators known for their racism and for opposing busing of African American children to previously white schools Biden still picked her as his running mateShe had a rocky start as Vice President with tensions between herself and Bidens staff She was also given some impossible assignments that were doomed for failure such as resolving the issue of undocumented migrants coming into the US from Hondurans El Salvador and Guatemala known as the Northern Triangle High rates of crime and low incomes have been the key drivers of migrants from these countries entering the US illegally After the Supreme Courts epic 2022 decision overturning the constitutional right to abortion Harris emerged as the administrations strongest and loudest voice on the issue The backlash to the courts decision helped the Biden administration survive a red wave in the midterm election of 2022 and the issue remains top of the agenda for the Democratic party in 2024 having found traction even with women in Republican states and areas IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/kamala-harris-stands-to-make-history-again-as-biden-drops-out-endorses-her-561066.html Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/record-26-indian-origin-mps-set-to-enter-uk-parliament-557003.html New Delhi July 6 A record number of 26 Indianorigin MPs are set to enter the UK Parliament after Fridays General Election results marking a significant increase from 15 five years ago Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak the first Indianorigin person to have served as the UK Prime Minister leads the pack after having secured victory from Richmond and Northallerton constituency in YorkshireApart from Sunak 25 other Indianorigin MPs including 20 from the Labour Party and five Conservatives also emerged victorious on FridayPriti Patel Conservative MP of Gujarati descent won from Witham Essex Patel who has served in various capacities including Secretary of State for International Development has been representing the constituency since 2010Gagan Mohindra a prominent politician from a Punjabi Hindu background secured his seat in South West Hertfordshire Mohindra has been a Conservative MP since 2019 following his initial election as a Parish Councillor in 2004Labour Party leader Seema Malhotra retained her Feltham and Heston constituency for a fourth term since 2011 Malhotra has held several shadow ministerial roles including Shadow Minister for Skills and Further EducationValerie Vaz Labour leader of Goan origin won the Walsall and Bloxwich constituency for the fifth time Vaz who has been an MP since 2010 has served as the Shadow Leader of the House of CommonsLisa Nandy retained her seat in Wigan making her the constituencys first female MP and one of the first Asian female MPs since 2010 She has served as the Shadow Cabinet Minister for International DevelopmentNadia Whittome who made history in 2019 as the UKs youngest MP at the age of 23 was reelected from Nottingham EastPreet Kaur Gill the UKs first female Sikh MP defeated Conservative Ashvir Sangha in Birmingham a seat she has held since 2017 Gill has served as the Shadow Minister for Primary Care and Public HealthLabour Partys Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi retained his Slough constituency although with a reduced victory marginConservative leader Shivani Raja won the Leicester East constituency where she was fielded against another Indianorigin Labour candidate Rajesh Agrawal44yearold Conservative MP Suella Braverman who was embroiled in controversies and dismissed by the party for her statements won from the Fareham and Waterlooville constituency for the fourth consecutive timeAdditionally other Indianorigin Labour MPs to be elected to the UKs House of Parliament include Navendu Mishra Jas Athwal Baggy Shanker Satvir Kaur Harpreet Uppal Warinder Juss Gurinder Josan Kanishka Narayan Sonia Kumar Sureena Brackenbridge Kirith Entwistle Jeevun Sandher Sojan Joseph and Murina Wilson IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/record-26-indian-origin-mps-set-to-enter-uk-parliament-557003.html Sat, 06 Jul 2024 16:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/98-indians-died-due-to-natural-causes-during-ongoing-haj-pilgrimage-mea-553090.html New Delhi June 21 The Ministry of External Affairs MEA said on Friday that 98 Indians died due to natural causes and accidents during this years Haj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia Last weekend over 175000 pilgrims from India converged on sacred Mount Arafat outside Mecca to offer their prayers during the pilgrimageEach year we have a large numbers of Indians visiting Haj for pilgrimage This year we have had around 175000 Indians who have visited Haj The core Haj period is from May 9 to July 22 said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on FridaySo far we have lost 98 of our citizens These deaths have happened due to illness natural causes chronic illness and old age On the day of Arafat six Indians died and four Indians have died on account of accidents Last year 187 Indians died during Haj he addedIt is believed that several hundred people from various countries have died due to the intense heat during this years pilgrimageAmid unconfirmed reports of hundreds of Egyptians passing away during the Haj the Egyptian Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday that it has deployed its consular teams in Mecca to visit hospitals and find missing citizensSimilarly Jordans Foreign Ministry also said earlier this week that dozens of pilgrims from the country have lost their lives during this years pilgrimageIndia had provided 24hour support including medical care through dispensaries ambulances healthcare on the go with doctorsparamedics providing requisite services on foot as per requirement support for guiding pilgrims tracing lost pilgrims care for those with mobility issues to its nationals undertaking the pilgrimageOn June 18 the Indian Haj Mission said that it has provided necessary assistance to more than 100 pilgrims by reuniting them with their families during this years pilgrimageThe Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan and the Consul General of India in Jeddah Shahid Alam have also been visiting various camps to interact with the Indian Haj pilgrims and take their feedback on the services provided to them besides taking stock of their overall wellbeing IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/98-indians-died-due-to-natural-causes-during-ongoing-haj-pilgrimage-mea-553090.html Fri, 21 Jun 2024 19:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ending-years-of-wait-six-pakistani-migrants-awarded-indian-citizenship-in-jaipur-551030.html Jaipur June 13 Six Pakistani migrants were awarded Indian citizenship on Thursday in Jaipur at the Collectorate They had been trying for Indian citizenship for years said officialsThese six people included Kavita Bai Nirmaldas Shabhagu Mal Puri Bai Mukesh Lal and Shankar LalAdditional District Collector South Shaifali Kushwaha handed over Indian citizenship certificates to them on the directions of District Collector Prakash RajpurohitSpeaking on the occasion she said With Indian citizenship being awarded to six migrants a total of 325 Pakistani migrants have been awarded Indian citizenship by the Jaipur District Administration so farAfter getting Indian citizenship tears of joy rolled down the cheeks of Shankar LalHe said Today the long wait of many years has ended and we can say with pride that we are IndiansShankar Lal said that he was unable to avail the benefits of government schemes due to lack of proof of Indian citizenship but now after getting it not only has he got recognition but with the help of government schemes he would be able to support his family in a better way IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/ending-years-of-wait-six-pakistani-migrants-awarded-indian-citizenship-in-jaipur-551030.html Thu, 13 Jun 2024 19:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-shoots-brother-dead-injures-mother-kills-self-in-new-york-550165.html New York June 10 An Indianorigin man here shot his brother dead injured his mother and then killed himself according to police Karamjit Multani 33 shot his brother Vipanpal 27 on Sunday in their home in the Richmond Hill neighbourhood and went out and turned the gun on himself at a place about two kilometres away police said Police said that when they went to their house after getting a call about a shooting they found Vipanpal unresponsive with several gunshot wounds and their 52yearold mother with an injury to her stomach Later Multani was found dead near a street corner with a gunshot wound to his head and a gun nearby according to police The mother who was not identified by name was taken to a hospital where she was said to be out of danger Richmond Hill has a large concentration of Asians most of them of Indian descent from India or the Caribbean accounting for 26 per cent of the areas population According to the city The southern portion of Richmond Hill is home to several tightknit communities such as the Punjabi Sikh CBS New York reported that the mens father Bhupinder Multani told the station that he did not know what set off his older son Asked by the stations reporter if the sons had any issues he said Not big problems Sometimes little disagreements no problems He said that the family had settled in for a quiet evening with pizza when Multani opened the door to his brothers room and shot him without warning The father said that he ran to the house of a neighbour to seek help The neighbour told the station that when she entered the house she found Vipanpal wounded and pleading for help He told me Please dont let me die the neighbour said and died later in my hands Jaspreet Singh the brotherinlaw of the two men told the station that Multani was one of the nicest coolest guys always joking around What could be going on in his mind to explode like that he wondered The New York Post reported that according to his family Multani was the father of three and was financially sound with no known problems A neighbour Alvin Debieen told the New York Daily News that they thought it was firecrackers going off when they heard the sound but when they heard the police sirens we kind of just figured someone was shot It had to be something really serious or he just snapped Debieen said A neighbour from where Multanis body was found told the newspaper that His body was right there laid out in the open and there was a lot of blood IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-shoots-brother-dead-injures-mother-kills-self-in-new-york-550165.html Mon, 10 Jun 2024 23:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-woman-dies-in-road-accident-in-us-family-distraught-546173.html Hyderabad May 27 A 25yearold woman from Telangana was killed after being hit by a car in the USs Florida state her family said on Monday Guntipalli Sowmya died on the spot after she was hit by a speeding car while she was crossing the road on Sunday night according to information received by her familySowmya a native of Yadagaripalli in Yadadri Bhongir district had gone to the US for higher studies She had completed her Masters from the Florida Atlantic University and was trying to find a jobSowmyas family was shocked upon receiving the news of her death Her parents Koteswara Rao and Balamani have appealed to the Centre and the state governments to bring her body back to IndiaTelangana Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy expressed condolences to Sowmyas family He said efforts were being made to bring back her mortal remains IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-woman-dies-in-road-accident-in-us-family-distraught-546173.html Mon, 27 May 2024 22:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-sunak-calls-snap-uk-elections-on-july-4-lists-achievements-544761.html London May 22 In a surprise development UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday called an early general election in July Addressing reporters outside his 10 Downing Street residence after a Cabinet meeting he said that earlier in the day he had asked King Charles to dissolve Parliament on May 30 and this was granted and thus the election will take place on July 4 the BBC reportedElections were slated for later this yearNoting that the last five years have seen the country fight through the most challenging times since World War Two Sunak said that the country has fought through those challenges and it made him proud to be BritishHe stressed that the UK economy is still growing inflation has returned to normal interest rates have come down and the governments plan is working However he acknowledged that he recognises things are not easy for many people currentlyAmong a resurgent Labour Party seeking to return to power after 14 years in the wake of his Conservatives dismal performance in the recent Council elections the Indiandescent Sunak told the people that the question now is who do you trustIt is the moment to decide Britains future he said to decide whether you want to build on the future youve made or risk going back to square oneSunak also admitted that he cannot and will not claim they got everything right while in power but he is proud of what they achieved and what can be done in the future listing his achievements as giving record funding to the NHS improving childrens reading putting energy security over environmental dogma and increasing defence spendingResponding to the announcement Labour party chief Sir Keir Starmer called this a moment the country needs and has been waiting forThis is the time to change communities and the country he said terming the election campaign an opportunity to secure a better futureStarmer said the Labour party has changed over the last few years and asks for a chance to do the same for the country promising it will return Britain to the service of working peopleIt will reverse things like sewage being pumped into rivers people waiting for treatment in AampE and reverse the trend of rising mortgages and food prices he promisedA vote for Labour is a vote for stability Starmer said and a vote for a politics that treads more lightly and stops the chaosIt is time for change he saidLiberal Democrats leader Sir Ed Davey said the general election will be a chance to kick Rishi Sunaks appalling Conservative government out of office and deliver the change the public is crying out forThe NHS has been brought to its knees peoples mortgages and rents have soared by hundreds of pounds a month and water companies have got away with pumping filthy sewage into our rivers and beaches IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-sunak-calls-snap-uk-elections-on-july-4-lists-achievements-544761.html Thu, 23 May 2024 00:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/captain-gopichand-becomes-1st-indian-to-tour-space-aboard-blue-origin-543773.html New Delhi May 19 Captain Gopichand Thotakura on Sunday became the first Indian ever to tour the edge of space on Blue Origins crewed flight mission Vijayawadaborn pilot Thotakura has become the second Indian to visit space after Rakesh Sharmas historic flight on Russias Soyuz T11 spacecraft in 1984After Sharma three persons of Indian origin have reached space Kalpana Chawla 1997 Sunita Williams 2006 and Raja Chari 2021 as NASA astronautsCapsule touchdown Welcome back NS25 crew Blue Origin said in a post on XThe seventh human flight missions by the Jeff Bezosowned company also carried five others 90yearold Ed Dwight Mason Angel Sylvain Chiron Kenneth L Hess and Carol SchallerThe 11minute flight launched at 806 pm IST from the companys Launch Site One in West TexasThe reusable New Shepard rocket on its 25th mission will fly the sixperson crew to space above the Karman line an internationally recognised boundary of space that lies 100 km above the Earths surfaceThis is Blue Origins first flight in nearly two years after the New Shepard rocket was grounded for months after a failed uncrewed launch in September 2022 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/captain-gopichand-becomes-1st-indian-to-tour-space-aboard-blue-origin-543773.html Sun, 19 May 2024 21:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/everybody-should-go-to-space-says-captain-gopichand-after-touring-space-543784.html New Delhi May 19 Everybody should go to space said Captain Gopichand Thotakura after becoming the first Indian ever to tour the edge of space on Blue Origins seventh crewed flight mission on Sunday It was amazing you have to see it with your eyes said the Vijayawadaborn pilot after coming out of the space capsule The 11minute flight which launched at 806 pm IST from the companys Launch Site One in West Texas carried the sixperson crew to space above the Karman line an internationally recognised boundary of space that lies 100 km above the Earths surface I cant describe how it is to look into space everybody should go to the space It was good to see Earth from the other side he said I think every person on the plant should get to witness the sight he added Thotakura is the second Indian to visit space after Rakesh Sharmas historic flight on Russias Soyuz T11 spacecraft in 1984 He was part of the seventh human flight missions by the Jeff Bezosowned company which also carried 90yearold Ed Dwight Mason Angel Sylvain Chiron Kenneth L Hess and Carol Schaller IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/everybody-should-go-to-space-says-captain-gopichand-after-touring-space-543784.html Sun, 19 May 2024 22:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-student-missing-in-us-for-a-week-540756.html Hyderabad May 9 A student from Telangana pursuing his masters from a university in the US has been reported missing in Chicago for a week as per his family The Consulate General of India in Chicago said in a post on X that it was deeply concerned to learn that Rupesh Chandra Chintakindi has been incommunicado since May 2 It said it was in touch with the police and Indian diaspora to locatereestablish contact with Chintakindi Chintakindi had gone to the US in December 2023 and was pursuing a masters degree from Concordia University in Wisconsin City Chicago police have also issued a statement about the student urging residents to provide any information about him Chintakindi hails from Warangal district and his family is worried about his whereabouts It has requested the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian embassy in the US to help trace him According to his family members he was in regular touch with them His father Sadanandam said he last spoke to him through a WhatsApp call on May 2 and Chintakindi told him that he was busy with some work Later Sadanandam tried to reach him but he remained offline After waiting for two days Chintakindis family members contacted his roommates They informed him that he left the room on April 30 saying he was going to meet someone from Texas who had come to meet him He told them that he would return in two days but did not return At the familys request his roommates lodged a complaint with Chicago police Sadanandam approached Union Minister G Kishan Reddy who wrote a letter to the Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar seeking assistance to trace the missing student Last month a student from Hyderabad who had been missing since March 7 was found dead in the US city of Cleveland Mohammed Abdul Arfath pursuing his masters degree in Information Technology at Cleveland University Ohio had not been in touch with the family since March 7 and his family here had received a ransom call IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-student-missing-in-us-for-a-week-540756.html Thu, 09 May 2024 19:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-student-missing-in-us-father-says-spoke-to-him-last-on-may-2-540783.html Hyderabad May 9 A student from Telangana pursuing his masters from a university in the US has been reported missing in Chicago for a week as per his family The Consulate General of India in Chicago said in a post on X that it was deeply concerned to learn that Rupesh Chandra Chintakindi has been incommunicado since May 2It said it was in touch with the police and Indian diaspora to locatereestablish contact with ChintakindiChintakindi had gone to the US in December 2023 and was pursuing a masters degree from Concordia University in Wisconsin CityChicago police have also issued a statement about the student urging residents to provide any information about himChintakindi hails from Warangal district and his family is worried about his whereaboutsIt has requested the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian embassy in the US to help trace himAccording to his family members he was in regular touch with them His father Sadanandam said he last spoke to him through a WhatsApp call on May 2 and Chintakindi told him that he was busy with some workLater Sadanandam tried to reach him but he remained offlineAfter waiting for two days Chintakindis family members contacted his roommates They informed him that he left the room on April 30 saying he was going to meet someone from Texas who had come to meet him He told them that he would return in two days but did not returnAt the familys request his roommates lodged a complaint with Chicago policeSadanandam approached Union Minister G Kishan Reddy who wrote a letter to the Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar seeking assistance to trace the missing studentLast month a student from Hyderabad who had been missing since March 7 was found dead in the US city of Cleveland Mohammed Abdul Arfath pursuing his masters degree in Information Technology at Cleveland University Ohio had not been in touch with the family since March 7 and his family here had received a ransom call IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/telangana-student-missing-in-us-father-says-spoke-to-him-last-on-may-2-540783.html Thu, 09 May 2024 20:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/thomas-tuchel-hints-he-may-be-open-for-move-back-to-england-amidst-manchester-united-rumors-540449.html New Delhi May 8 FC Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel is getting ready for perhaps one of the most important games of his career The German has been under scrutiny since the beginning of the season and with FC Bayern losing out on their 12th consecutive Bundesliga title Tuchel is on his way out of Munich at the end of the season A number of potential destinations are popping for the 2021 Champions League winning manager but a potential return to the Premier League is very much on for the exChelsea man as he states that It was a very very special time in EnglandAlthough Bayern Munichs domestic struggles may be enough for the record Bundesliga winners to part ways with the German manager his amazing record in the Champions League may be appealing to some Manchester United is the likely destination for the German if a return to England is on the cards as Erik Ten Hags Manchester United squad are currently on pace to achieve their lowest finish in Premier League history and many fans have seemed to turn on the Dutch managerId rather not answer but it is no secret that I loved it at Chelsea I loved it in England and I loved it in the Premier League for sure It was a very very special time in England said Thomas Tuchel to TNT SportsBayern Munich have been actively swooping the managerial market to strike potential deals with Zidane Julen Lopetegui and even Erik Ten Hag as Tuchels replacement with none of the deals materializing till now With no available managers in the market it was speculated that Bayern may look to retain the services of the 50 year old but such rumors were dismissed by TuchelIts very very very unlikely that its at Bayern We took this position and theres a pact we are not doubting the initiative came from the club and so it is and Im fine with it told TNT Sports IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/thomas-tuchel-hints-he-may-be-open-for-move-back-to-england-amidst-manchester-united-rumors-540449.html Wed, 08 May 2024 19:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-americans-caution-us-university-on-demand-to-display-flag-of-kashmir-539325.html Washington May 4 Indian Americans are calling upon a US university not to implement a portion of one of the demands it conceded to protesting students to display on campus the flags of occupied people which listed Kashmiris along with Palestinians and the Kurds This is a dangerous territory for Rutgers to get involved sic Thomas Abraham chairman of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin GOPIO wrote in a letter to Jonathan Holloway President Rutgers UniversityNew Brunswick in New Jersey stateBy even considering this demand you are questioning the integrity of India Kashmir is very much part of India There is no separate flag for Kashmir Kashmir residents are not displaced people In fact the displaced people are the Hindu minorities who had to leave Kashmir because of violence against them If Rutgers displays such a flag of Kashmir that will be the beginning of more sitins by students who are opposed to such flags Abraham wroteThe university has not implemented this demandThe Office of the Chancellor will take stock of flags that are displayed across Rutgers New Brunswick campus and ensure appropriate representation of students enrolled in academic and other spaces Chancellor Francine Conway wrote in a threepage letter responding to the protesting students on ThursdayThe students had demanded as specified in her letter display the flags of occupied peoples including but not limited to Palestinians Kurds and Kashmiris in all areas displaying international flags across the Rutgers campusesStudents were protesting the Israeli war in Gaza as students of many universities across the country and had put forth 10 demandsThe top demand which has been common to protesters in all other universities was divestment from companies doing business with Israel or supporting its war effort and cutting links with IsraelThe chancellor said the university is reviewing these links and will discuss the findings with the studentsIndian Americans are focussed on the one allowing the display of the flag of the occupied people of Kashmir So RutgersU has caved Suhag Shukla of the Hindu American Foundation wrote in a post on X IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-americans-caution-us-university-on-demand-to-display-flag-of-kashmir-539325.html Sat, 04 May 2024 20:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/canada-dedicates-april-to-sikhs-532228.html Chandigarh April With eight lakh Sikhs calling Canada their home April is observed as Sikh Heritage Month to celebrate the rich history and contributions of the community there As per the Canadian encyclopedia Sikhism is a major world religion that arose from the teachings of Guru Nanak There are about 27 million Sikhs worldwide making Sikhism the fifthlargest religionThroughout the month well feature prominent Sikh Canadians and events related to the Sikh community that had a strong impact on Canadian history said Historica Canada a nonprofit Canadian organisation dedicated to enhancing awareness of Canadian historyAccording to City of Surreys official account on X It is an opportunity to remember celebrate and educate about the vital role Sikhs have played and continue to play in our communitiesThis years Vaisakhi Parade is on April 20The official page of Veterans Affairs Canada says Today we remember Buckam Singh one of the first Sikhs in Canada to enlist in our militarySon of Badan and Chandi Kaur Singh and husband of Pritam Kaur of Jalandhar Buckam Singh was in Canadian Infantry Eastern Ontario Regiment His enlistment was on April 23 1915Mayor of Brampton Patrick Brown said Brampton is proud to be home to so many people of Sikh heritage making a tremendous contribution to the success of our city Ontario and CanadaProgressive Intercultural Community Services PICS Society President and CEO Satbir Singh Cheema said that the month of April is an acknowledgement that gives us the opportunity to celebrate the contributions and efforts of the Sikh community in the past and in the present to make Canada a more inclusive placePICS is a registered nonprofit society that has been serving the local community in British Columbia since 1987 providing a broad spectrum of programmes and services that assist new immigrants seniors women and youth IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/canada-dedicates-april-to-sikhs-532228.html Thu, 04 Apr 2024 15:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/sikhs-in-canada-observe-april-as-heritage-month-532260.html Chandigarh April 4 With eight lakh Sikhs calling Canada their home April is observed as Sikh Heritage Month to celebrate the rich history and contributions of the community there As per the Canadian encyclopedia Sikhism is a major world religion that arose from the teachings of Guru Nanak There are about 27 million Sikhs worldwide making Sikhism the fifthlargest religionThroughout the month well feature prominent Sikh Canadians and events related to the Sikh community that had a strong impact on Canadian history said Historica Canada a nonprofit Canadian organisation dedicated to enhancing awareness of Canadian historyAccording to City of Surreys official account on X It is an opportunity to remember celebrate and educate about the vital role Sikhs have played and continue to play in our communitiesThis years Vaisakhi Parade is on April 20The official page of Veterans Affairs Canada says Today we remember Buckam Singh one of the first Sikhs in Canada to enlist in our militarySon of Badan and Chandi Kaur Singh and husband of Pritam Kaur of Jalandhar Buckam Singh was in Canadian Infantry Eastern Ontario Regiment His enlistment was on April 23 1915Mayor of Brampton Patrick Brown said Brampton is proud to be home to so many people of Sikh heritage making a tremendous contribution to the success of our city Ontario and CanadaProgressive Intercultural Community Services PICS Society President and CEO Satbir Singh Cheema said that the month of April is an acknowledgement that gives us the opportunity to celebrate the contributions and efforts of the Sikh community in the past and in the present to make Canada a more inclusive placePICS is a registered nonprofit society that has been serving the local community in British Columbia since 1987 providing a broad spectrum of programmes and services that assist new immigrants seniors women and youth IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/sikhs-in-canada-observe-april-as-heritage-month-532260.html Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-meets-singapores-top-leadership-conveys-pm-modis-greetings-530326.html Singapore March 25 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met top leaders of Singapore and valued their support for the strategic partnership as he conveyed personal greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to them On a threeday visit to Singapore to cement close ties between both nations he also met leading corporate figures who spoke of Indias growth story based on investment experiencesDr Jaishankar praised Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loongs positive sentiments on the IndiaSingapore relationship which he said have always been a source of strength for our tiesHonoured to call on Prime Minister leehsienloong at The Istana Conveyed the personal greetings of PM narendramodi Valued his perspectives on the current state of the world the EAM wrote on XHe also called on Singapores Indianorigin Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan with whom he exchanged views on the IndoPacific and West AsiaReviewed the progress of our bilateral cooperation Spoke about preparations for the next ISMR IndiaSingapore Ministerial Roundtable meeting Discussed marking 60 years of our diplomatic ties Dr Jaishankar saidEnvisioned by Prime Minister Modi the first ISMR between the two nations seeking to deepen existing cooperation and identifying opportunities for collaboration in new and emerging areas was held in 2022 Following the inaugural meeting PM Modi conveyed his appreciation and hoped that initiatives like ISMR would help further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countriesDr Jaishankar also met Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong where perspectives on advancing bilateral ties especially on newage technologies were shared in addition to views on the evolving global economic situationHe wrapped up his visit to the Southeast Asian nation after meeting Home Affairs amp Law Minister K Shanmugam and said that he values the Indianorigin ministers consistent support for our strategic partnershipThe EAM last visited Singapore in October 2023 to deepen the Strategic Partnership between the two countries where he met President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Foreign Minister Balakrishnan After concluding the Singapore visit EAM Jaishankar will be travelling to Malaysia and The Philippines to engage with them on regional issues of mutual concern IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/eam-jaishankar-meets-singapores-top-leadership-conveys-pm-modis-greetings-530326.html Mon, 25 Mar 2024 16:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/american-dream-of-several-indian-descent-families-ends-inexplicably-in-pools-of-blood-529322.html Washington March 18 Their American dream ended in a pool of their own blood at their own hand and at their homes But the world will never know what drove these Indianorigin families in the US to this extreme step because the police have either closed their investigation or will as has been the trend Anand Sujith Henry 37 his wife Alice Priyanka Benziger 38 and their 4yearold twin children Noah and Neithan were found dead at their home in San Mateo California on February 13The police called it a case of murdersuicide in which Henry killed his wife their children and himselfWe do not yet have an answer towards the motive to share said Jeanine Luna Community Relations Officer San Mateo Police Department on Monday almost a month after the discovery of the bodiesHenry and Benziger came to the US from Kerala for higher studies and stayed on They were both IT professionals Henry worked for Google and then Meta before founding his own AI company and she worked for Zillow Both died of gunshots and the children had either been smothered or poisoned because there were no signs of trauma on their bodiesA month ago another Indiandescent family was found dead at their home in Dover Massachusetts The police said Rakesh Kamal 57 had shot his wife Teena Kamal 54 and their daughter Arianna Kamal 18 before turning the gun on himselfThe motive appeared to be financial troublesKamal was under a mountain of debt and had been served an eviction notice from their multimillion dollar homeHe had been living it up without the means to support his expensive taste for luxury cars and bespoke suitsBut there are no leads to the motives or reasons for the two Indiandescent families that were found dead at their home in Dublin Ohio in February 2023Rajan Rajaram 54 had shot himself after killing his wife Santhalatha Rajan 51 and their son Anish Rajan Rajaram 19Rajaram worked as an engineer for Technosoft Corporation based in Cincinnati This case has been closed and ruled a murdersuicide The Dublin Police Department does not have any information on a motive per that investigation said Rebecca Myers Public Information Officer for the city of Dublin OhioWhy did Rajaram who had lived in that house since 1998 take this extreme stepAnother familys end is headed for a similar blind alleyTej Pratap Singh 43 had killed his wife Sonal Parihar 42 and their son 10 and daughter sixSingh a software engineer from Kanpur and the family came to the US in 2009 and neighbours have recalled them as a nice and happy familyThe bodies were found at their home in Plainsboro New JerseyThe police have suggested it was a case of murdersuicide But why did Singh take this extreme stepThe police informed me that they are in the process of closing out that investigation No criminal charges are being filed due to the fact of all parties being deceased said Brynn Krause Public Information Officer of Middlesex County prosecutors office which has jurisdiction over the Plainsboro Township Police Department IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/american-dream-of-several-indian-descent-families-ends-inexplicably-in-pools-of-blood-529322.html Mon, 18 Mar 2024 23:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/baps-hindu-temple-in-abu-dhabi-celebrates-its-first-maha-shivratri-festival-527491.html New Delhi March 9 The first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates UAE celebrated its first festival Maha Shivratri on Friday almost a month after its inauguration While the countrymen thronged Shiva temples to pay their obeisance to the Lord on Friday the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi also saw a large number of devotees converging from various parts of the Gulf nation to offer prayers at the BAPS templeThe temple constructed and run by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha BAPS was inaugurated on February 14 in the presence of thousands of Hindu saints Mahant Swami ji Maharaj and Prime Minister Narendra ModiOn Friday the temple was adorned with vibrant colours for the occasion of Shivratri with thousands of devotees gathering there to celebrate the revered dayThe festivities at the temple began with prayers for Lord Shiva and concluded with a havan Throughout the day the temple saw a rush of devotees lined up at the gates to get a darshan of the deityAfter offering prayers at the temple many of the devotees said they were left overwhelmed by the grandeur and magnificence of the recentlybuilt BAPS Hindu mandirMaha Shivratri an annual Hindu festival is considered the most sacred day to worship Lord Shiva On this day devotees collect water from River Ganga and offer it to the deity IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/baps-hindu-temple-in-abu-dhabi-celebrates-its-first-maha-shivratri-festival-527491.html Sat, 09 Mar 2024 17:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-women-beyond-borders-a-formidable-force-in-world-politics-527005.html New Delhi March 8 Women serve as heads of state and government in only 31 countries with less than one in four serving as cabinet ministers and just 265 per cent of them as MPs in a 21stcentury world that speaks of gender equality Despite the notsoimpressive numbers based on a 2023 UN study women across the world have been emerging as a formidable force in political fora that has long been overpowered by menWhile in India Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman Smriti Irani and many of their colleagues in the PM Narendra Modi government put in assiduous work to make governance more responsive to womens interests and needs their fellow Indian women beyond borders are not far behindIn the US Vice President Kamala Devi Harris born to a Jamaican father and an Indian mother is President Joe Bidens running mate in this years crucial election and could well script history by becoming Americas first woman President as well as the first of Indian descentTill two days back twotime former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley born Nimrata Nikki Randhawa to Punjabi Sikh parents was the last woman standing against Republican frontrunner Donald Trump in the 2024 race to the White House She was also the US Ambassador to the UN under thenPresident TrumpChennaiborn Pramila Jayapal is among the five IndianAmerican lawmakers in the US Congress and represents the 7th Congressional District of Washington Last year her sister Susheela Jayapal launched her congressional bid from the state of OregonAssemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar the first Hindu American elected to New York State Office won the Diwali school holiday in just one legislative session winning the hearts of the South Asian community in the stateLast year Andhra Pradeshborn Aruna Miller scripted history by becoming the first IndianAmerican politician to be sworn in as the Lieutenant Governor in the state of MarylandIn Australia Labour MP Zaneta Mascarenhas became the first person of Goan origin to be elected to the countrys lower house of representatives in 2022 from SwanIn Australias closest neighbour to the east Priyanca Radhakrishnan became the first person of Indian roots to be named minister for Diversity Inclusion and Ethnic Communities in New ZealandHer greatgrandfather Dr CR Krishna Pillai had reportedly been a leftwing leader with the Communist Party and played a key role in Kerala politicsIn January 2021 Radhakrishnan who is a Labour MP right now was conferred a Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award for public serviceIndoCanadian Anita Anand promoted as the President of the Treasury Board in a last year Cabinet reshuffle was the former Defence Minister of Canada and also served as the Minister of Public Services and Procurement in the pastBorn in 1967 in Nova Scotia to a Punjabi mother and a Tamil father both physicians Anita having worked as a scholar lawyer and researcher was first elected as the MP for Oakville in 2019Reacting to Justin Trudeaus allegations of an Indian hand in the murder of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar Anita said it was a very difficult time to hear the Prime Minister make the remarks especially for families who come from IndiaI am thinking about my parents for example and I think that sentiment is shared by South Asians and families who come from India regardless of religion Anita said adding that it is time to let the legal process continue as it mustBorn to Sikh parents from India Jyoti Gondek was sworn in as the 37th mayor of Calgary a city in Canadas Alberta province becoming the first woman to be elected to the role in 2021In the island nation of Singapore Indranee Rajah born to a Tamil father and a Chinese Singaporean mother entered politics in 2001 and was appointed a minister in the Prime Ministers office in 2018 She has been serving as Minister in the Prime Ministers Office and Second Minister for Finance since 2018 in the citystate IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-women-beyond-borders-a-formidable-force-in-world-politics-527005.html Fri, 08 Mar 2024 07:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nikki-haley-to-quit-gop-presidential-race-526616.html Washington March 6 IndianAmerican Republican presidential aspirant Nikki Haley is set to quit the race for the White House clearing the decks for her former boss and GOP frontrunner Donald Trump according to media reports The former twotime South Carolina Governor is expected to make the announcement on Wednesday at Charleston in her home state sources in know of her plans told CNNThe 52yearold on Tuesday scored a surprising victory over Trump in the Republican primary in Vermont state which came just after her Washington DC win putting her in the history books as the first woman ever to achieve the milestoneHer move follows a series of losses in GOP nominating contests on Super Tuesday where her rival Trump maintained a formidable leadTrump and US President Joe Biden are leading in Super Tuesday wins in their respective partys primaries for the 2024 presidential electionHaving been defeated in South Carolina her home state questions were being raised about Haleys presence in the race and more importantly how long would she get donors to pump money into her campaignDespite her debacle at the primary Haley made clear in her speech that she was not giving upI said earlier this week that no matter what happens in South Carolina I would continue to run Im a woman of my word she said Im not giving up this fight when a majority of Americans disapprove of both Donald Trump and Joe Biden she added sharpening her attacks on Biden and Trump by calling them grumpy old men IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nikki-haley-to-quit-gop-presidential-race-526616.html Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haley-to-suspend-race-for-white-house-526646.html Washington March 6 Nikki Haley the former US Ambassador to the UN will suspend her campaign for the Republican nomination for President after a severe drubbing in the primaries held in more than 10 states on Tuesday Former President Donald Trump will now become the presumptive Republican nominee to take on President Joe Biden a Democrat in the November election He has a lock on the nomination with 955 delegates which is just a bit shy of the winning threshold of 1215 delegates Every state gives the candidates a certain number of delegates who will vote to elect a nominee in the party convention later in the year Haley has picked up only 88 thus farThe Indian American Republican is expected to make the announcement later in the dayHaley ran a gritty campaign coalescing Republican voters who did not want Trump to be their nominee again But in the end their numbers fell far short of winning her the nominationBut she did raise substantial sums of money garnering the support of some of the partys largest donors such as the immensely resourceful Koch Network which in a sign of things to come withdrew its support to Haley last weekHaley won the primaries in only two states thus far to Trumps 22Calls had been mounting from within the Republican party for her to exit the race and let Trump focus on his contest against BidenBut Haley stayed in arguing she was the better candidate than both Trump and Biden who who are battling voter scepticism on account of their age and for the former President a litany of civil and criminal charges some of which he has lost and could end up in jail some dayHaleys exit raises questions about her future Could she joint Trump as his running mate She has said before she is not interested in a position in a Trump administration and that she is not auditioning for a job But that could changeShe is a woman and as a woman of color she brings unmatched equity to the ticketBut is Trump interested He has not included her in a shortlist he discussed in a TV interview recentlyAlso Haleys Republican supporters are stridently antiTrump and their vote and support is unlikely to transfer to the former President if he were to be joined by HaleyBut Haley has also set herself up as a formidable candidate for the Republican nomination in 2028 The comparison being drawn by most experts is Ronald Reagans run for the nomination in the 1968 Republican primaries He lost to Richard Nixon who went on to serve one term and a second truncated term Reagan established himself as a significant figure in the party and the country and went to win the nomination and the presidency in 1980 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haley-to-suspend-race-for-white-house-526646.html Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nikki-haley-suspends-race-for-white-house-after-more-losses-526683.html Washington March 6 Nikki Haley the former US Ambassador to the UN suspended her campaign for the Republican nomination for President after a severe drubbing in the primaries held in more than 10 states on Tuesday Former President Donald Trump will now become the presumptive Republican nominee to take on President Joe Biden a Democrat in the November election He has a lock on the nomination with 955 delegates which is just a bit shy of the winning threshold of 1215 delegates Every state gives the candidates a certain number of delegates who will vote to elect a nominee in the party convention later in the year Haley has picked up only 88 thus farThe Indian American Republican did not endorse Trump in a brief speech she delivered announcing she was suspending their campaign She said the former President must earn the support of the partyIt is now up to Donald Trump to earn the votes of those in our party who did not support him and I hope he does she said This is now his time for choosingHaley ran a gritty campaign coalescing Republican voters who did not want Trump to be their nominee again But in the end their numbers fell far short of winning her the nomination But she did raise substantial sums of money garnering the support of some of the partys largest donors such as the immensely resourceful Koch Network which in a sign of things to come withdrew its support to Haley last weekHaley won the primaries in only two states thus far to Trumps 22Calls had been mounting from within the Republican party for her to exit the race and let Trump focus on his contest against Biden But Haley stayed in arguing she was the better candidate than both Trump and Biden who are battling voter scepticism on account of their age and for the former president a litany of civil and criminal charges some of which he has lost and could end up in jail somedayHaleys exit raises questions about her future Could she join Trump as his running mate She has said before she is not interested in a position in a Trump administration and that she is not auditioning for a job But that could change She is a woman and as a woman of colour she brings unmatched equity to the ticketBut is Trump interested He has not included her in a shortlist he discussed in a TV interview recently Also Haleys Republican supporters are stridently antiTrump and their vote and support is unlikely to transfer to the former President if he were to be joined by HaleyBut Haley has also set herself up as a formidable candidate for the Republican nomination in 2028 The comparison being drawn by most experts is Ronald Reagans run for the nomination in the 1968 Republican primaries He lost to Richard Nixon who went on to serve one term and a second truncated term Reagan established himself as a significant figure in the party and the country and went on to win the nomination and the Presidency in 1980 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nikki-haley-suspends-race-for-white-house-after-more-losses-526683.html Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/hyderabad-man-duped-into-fighting-for-russian-army-in-ukraine-killed-526690.html Hyderabad March 6 A 30yearold man from Hyderabad who was duped into joining the Russian Army and fighting against Ukraine has been killed The Indian Embassy in Moscow on Wednesday confirmed the death of Mohammed Asfan but has not revealed the cause of the death We have learnt about the tragic death of an Indian national Shri Mohammed Asfan We are in touch with the family and Russian authorities Mission will make efforts to send his mortal remains to India the embassy said in a post on X TThe family of Afsan was shocked upon learning about his death He is survived by his wife and two children an eightmonthold daughter and a twoyearold son His brother Mohammed Imran said they were not in a position to say anything now The family which resides in the Bazar Ghat area was informed about Afsans death by Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi Afsan who was working in a readymade garment shop was duped by a job agent based in Dubai He and two others went to Moscow via Sharjah in November last year after they were promised jobs as helpers in the Russian Army They were promised Rs 30000 per month initially The agent had also told them that they would get Rs 15 lakh later Asfans family grew suspicious after they were unable to contact Afsan They lodged a complaint with Hyderabad police and later approached Asaduddin Owaisi The AIMIM President on February 21 appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take steps to bring back 12 Indians who were forced to fight Ukraine alongside the Russian Army He said these unemployed youth who had gone to Russia to work for security at buildings were cheated and were taken to the war front They included two youths from Telangana three from Karnataka two from Kashmir and one each from Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh Hamil Mangukiya 23 from Gujarat was killed in an airstrike on February 21 in the Donetsk region on the RussiaUkraine border Owaisi had said three agents cheated unemployed youth by sending them to Russia to fight against Ukraine Faisal Khan one of the agents is in Dubai while Sufiyan and Puja are from Mumbai Ramesh and Moin are Indian agents in Russia IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/hyderabad-man-duped-into-fighting-for-russian-army-in-ukraine-killed-526690.html Wed, 06 Mar 2024 23:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/8th-indian-in-qatar-to-return-after-fulfilling-certain-requirements-mea-524912.html New Delhi Feb 29 The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that the eighth Indian Navy veteran who was sentenced to death in Qatar along with seven others on espionage charges will return home after fulfilling certain requirements India scored a diplomatic victory with seven of its former navy personnel who were working for Dohabased Dahra Global and were taken into custody in August 2022 returning home earlier this monthThey were identified as Captain Navtej Singh Gill Captain Birendra Kumar Verma Captain Saurabh Vasisht Commander Amit Nagpal Commander Sugunakar Pakala Commander Sanjeev Gupta and Sailor RajeshWhile Commander Purnendu Tiwari has been released from prison along with others he is yet to land in India with sources indicating his arrival by next weekAs you know all eight Indian nationals who were involved in the Dahra Global case have been released Seven of them have returned to India Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said while addressing a weekly media briefing on ThursdayThe eighth Indian national has certain requirements to fulfill he will return as and when those are completed he addedThe spokesperson did not elaborate on the requirements that Commander Tiwari needed to fulfill to ensure his return to India Earlier Commander Tiwaris cousin Dr Meetu Bhargava had expressed her joy upon hearing the news of his release which she said would not have been possible without Prime Minister Narendra Modis helpThe MEA spokesperson also confirmed that the first group of civilian crew replacing Indian troops has reached MaldivesThe first team of technical personnel to operate the advanced light helicopter at Gan has reached Maldives It will replace the existing personnel that were until now operating it Jaiswal said in response to a questionThat is where it is as far as the core group meeting is concerned We will have more details later he addedIn a statement released on Monday the Maldives Ministry of Defence said The civilian crew who will operate the helicopter in place of the Indian troops currently stationed in Seenu Gan Addu city has arrived in Maldives this eveningAs of now there are close to 80 Indian military personnel in the island nation to operate two Indian helicopters and an aircraftThe Maldivian defence ministry also stated that the helicopter stationed at Kadhdhoo Airport would be returned to India for maintenance adding that a replacement helicopter would arrive aboard an Indian warshipMaldives proChina President Mohamed Muizzu promised to remove Indian troops from the island nation after winning the countrys presidential election in November 2023Earlier this month he said the first group of Indian military personnel will be sent back before March 10 while the remaining will be withdrawn by May 10 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/8th-indian-in-qatar-to-return-after-fulfilling-certain-requirements-mea-524912.html Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/thousands-of-devotees-take-part-in-palkhi-yatra-at-baps-uae-temple-524526.html Dubai Feb 28 Thousands of devotees took part in a grand procession of the Hindu community members at the newlyinaugurated BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi which is set to open its doors to the general public from March 1 Dressed in traditional Indian attire singing and dancing to devotional songs more than 1100 people participated in the Palkhi Yatra which usually precedes or follows the opening of a new temple Khaleej Times newspaper reported on WednesdayIdols from the seven main shrines of the temple were placed on decorated palanquins and taken around the temple during the Sundays procession held as part of the Festival of Harmony an event that marked the majestic temples opening on February 14This was followed by an address to the community by Brahmviharidas Swami the project head of the BAPS Hindu MandirIve never seen so much devotional joy and colour as we danced around the Mandir We thank the BAPS Mandir for opening their hearts to all of us and making everyone feel welcome We truly feel it is our Mandir And all that is thanks to the guru Mahant Swami Maharaj Lina Barot a community member told Khaleej TimesThe temple authorities announced on Tuesday that the Mandir will open its door to the public from March 1 from 9 am to 8 pm and it will remain closed to visitors every MondayThe temple was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the Gulf nation and was attended by over 5000 inviteesBuilt at a cost of approximately Rs 700 crore the temple is spread over a 27acre plot in Abu Mureikhah near Al Rahba and is constructed using more than 18 million cubic meters of sandstone sourced from Rajasthan IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/thousands-of-devotees-take-part-in-palkhi-yatra-at-baps-uae-temple-524526.html Wed, 28 Feb 2024 16:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/hindu-vote-becomes-a-factor-in-us-elections-524315.html Washington Feb 27 Niraj Antani a Republican running for US Congress is aggressively projecting his Hindu faith Bhavini Patel a Democrat running for Congress is battling allegations of courting Hindu nationalist donors And Indiandescent donors are pressing the BidenHarris campaign for a Hindu page in its 2024 campaign manifesto The Hindu Vote appears to have become a factor in US politicsThere is no rock solid count of Hindus in the US because the US Census does not record religious affiliation in its surveys But there are several estimatesPew Research Center said 07 per cent of Americans were Hindu in 2015 and that their number is projected to grow to 48 million by 2050 Harvard Divinity School estimated their number to be 25 million in 2018 And some Hindu Americans put the number generously at 5 million which they concede includes Sikhs and JainsAs crucial as their number is US politics so is their ability to write big donation checksNiraj Antani an Ohio state lawmaker who is running in the Republican primary for a congressional seat has frequently described himself as Hindu and posted this message on X to mark the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya As the 1st Hindu American State Senator in Ohio history today it was my privilege to do Darshan to Lord Ram at BAPS Cincinnati Mandir to mark the opening of his Mandir in Ayodhya As we celebrate this occasion let us stand for religious freedom around the world Jai Shri RamHis pinned post on X is an endorsement from the Hindu American PACBhavini Patel a Democrat who is seeking to unseat the incumbent Democrat in a congressional race in Pennsylvania is being attacked by her opponent for courting Hindu nationalist donors as also for her unstinting support for IsraelA fundraising call she hosted with Mihi Meghani a cofounder of the Hindu American Foundation was being cited as proof of her courting Hindu groups Meghani is also the chair of the Hindu American PACs whose endorsement is a pinned post on Antanis X feedThe Patel campaign has denied these allegationsThe back and forth only demonstrates the growing presence of a Hindu vote in US politicsThere was always a Hindu vote which was not recognised publicly said Ramesh Kapur a longtime Democratic donor and strategistBut it is being recognised now and has come to the fore in the context of the 2024 electionsA bunch of donors are also pressing the BidenHarris reelection campaign to include a Hindu Page in its manifesto whenever it is announcedThe same group had tried but failed to convince the Biden campaign to feature the same page in its manifesto that ran on the campaigns website as Joes Vision It had sections dedicated to Muslims Jews African American and so on The campaign did issue Bidens agenda for Indian Americans but this group of Hindu donors were insistent on a Hindu Page in Joes Vision specially because of the observances in the section for MuslimsJoe Biden has been disappointed by the measures that the government of India has taken with the implementation and aftermath of the National Register of Citizens in Assam and the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Act into law it had said referring laws that sought to fasttrack citizenship request from nonMuslims fleeing neighbouring countries and keeping a national registry of citizensBoth laws remain unenforcedThese donors are pressing for the page with an offer to provide President Biden the cushion of Hindu American votes to offset the possible boycott of Arab and Muslim votes over the administrations support of Israel offensive against the Hamas in Gaza specially in the key swing states that tend to determine most presidential racesA phrase being used frequently in this context is plug the gapWisconsin one of the swing states will be critical Biden won this state by 20000 in 2020 It has an estimated 38400 Hindu Americans and they may be able cushion the blow from the boycott by the states 68000 Muslims to an extent These numbers come from a document prepared by these donors to make their caseHindu Americans are more confident of their ability to help Biden better in Georgia a state he won by roughly 12000 The state is home to 172000 Hindu Americans who can more than compensate for its 123000 MuslimsIn Pennsylvania which Biden won by 44000 Hindu Americans number 129700 to 149500 Muslim Americans Hindu Americans are not able to fill the gap completely but they are arguing they can help the campaign fill the gapBut all this presumes Hindu Americans will turn up and vote and not as mostly before staying homeThese Hindu Americans feel particularly confident of their clout on account of two key political developmentsOne they believe they helped Glenn Youngkin a Republican win the Governorship of Virginia and two convinced Gavin Newsom the California Governor with widely acknowledged White House aspirations to veto a legislation passed by the California legislatures to add caste to the list of prohibited discriminatory practicesHindu Americans are mostly of Indian descent but a sizable number of them are also from Nepal Bangladesh Pakistan the Caribbean Afghanistan and American converts such as former congresswoman Tulsi Gabbards familyIndian Americans have been a growing political force in the US but many among them have begun to differentiate themselves as Hindu Americans a trend that has been helped along by the rise of the BJP in India specially the immense popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Multiple groups have cropped up with names wrapped around the word Hindu Republican Hindu Coalition American Hindu Coalition Hindus 4 America Hindu American PAC Political Action CommitteeRaja Krishnamoorthi Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal the three Indian American members of the House of Representatives are all Hindu but they have rarely if ever flouted their faith to further their politics And they have now been members of US Congress since 2017 serving three terms Shri Thanedar who joined them in the House in 2023 has been demonstrably bolder He heads the Hindu Caucus in the House IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/hindu-vote-becomes-a-factor-in-us-elections-524315.html Tue, 27 Feb 2024 22:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/family-of-slain-british-indian-teen-slams-uk-cops-for-mismanagement-524016.html London Feb 27 Slamming the police for mismanagement families of the victims of Nottingham murders which included an Indianorigin student said they will continue to raise serious concerns about the case and will not be silenced BritishIndian Grace OMalleyKumar fellow student Barnaby Webber both aged 19 and 65yearold school caretaker Ian Coates were stabbed to death by Valdo Calocane near the University of Nottingham on June 13 2023In a joint statement the families also accused the Nottinghamshire Police of gagging the media in an attempt to stop details of case failings being made public the Shropshire Star newspaper reported on MondayCalocane 32 was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order last month after prosecutors accepted his plea of guilty to manslaughter based on diminished responsibility with psychiatrists saying that he suffered from paranoid schizophreniaThe victims families who had hoped for a murder trial reacted with shock and anger to the verdict which said that Calocane would not face a murder trial due to mental illnessFurther they criticised the police after it emerged during a misconduct hearing that they shared details about the murder victims on a WhatsApp groupWe will not be silenced This behaviour must be addressed and urgent changes made as this must not happen again to other innocent families the families said in the statement released on MondayThey said their lengthy and detailed statement was sent to highlight their concerns and ongoing mismanagement by the Nottingham PoliceThey also mentioned in the statement that the police force held an offtherecord press briefing last week where they told the journalists that they could not report the information discussedAs of now the families are awaiting a response from the Home Secretary and have also written to Opposition leader Keir Starmer seeking a meeting with him and his shadow ministersCalling for a public inquiry into the case the families have also met Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who promised them that we will get the answersMeanwhile Attorney General Victoria Prentis KC MP said the sentence of manslaughter by diminished responsibility and attempted murder was unduly lenient and will be referred to the Court of Appeal IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/family-of-slain-british-indian-teen-slams-uk-cops-for-mismanagement-524016.html Tue, 27 Feb 2024 07:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-born-economist-geeta-batra-named-as-first-woman-director-of-world-banks-gef-523495.html Mumbai Feb 25 Geeta Batra an Indian economist has been named as the new Director at the Independent Evaluation Office of the World Banks Global Environment Facility GEF making her the firstever woman from a developing country to hold the coveted post Batra 57 is currently the Chief Evaluator amp Deputy Director for Evaluation at the GEFs Independent Evaluation Office IEO affiliated to the World BankHer name was unanimously recommended for the coveted position at the 66th GEF Council Meeting held in Washington on February 9 and was announced last weekMy top priorities will be to deliver sound evaluative evidence on the results and performance of the GEF provide leadership to ensure that the GEF IEO stays at the forefront of environmental evaluation and strengthen the IEO teams and invest in skills Batra told IANS from Virginia USShe will also build partnerships with multilateral and bilateral agencies foundations and networks and share knowledge of what works where and whyBorn in New Delhi Batra studied at the Villa Theresa High School 1984 in Mumbai then completed her Economics from the Stella Maris College Chennai 19841987 followed by an MBA in Finance from the NMIMS Vile Parle 1990 in MumbaiAfter her MBA she was inspired by one of her professors Harkant Mankad to go to the US August 1990 to pursue a PhD in EconomicsArmed with a doctorate she worked for a couple of years as Senior Manager Risk at American Express before joining the World Banks Private Sector Development Department in 1998Serving there for seven years till 2005 she implemented competitiveness projects in East Asia and Latin AmericaSubsequently she took over as the Head amp Chief Evaluator at the International Finance Corporation for its advisory services portfolio before moving to the World Banks IEG as Chief Evaluator and Manager for country and corporate thematic evaluationsIn 2015 Batra joined the GEFs IEO established in July 2003 which assesses the progress and impact of GEF interventions where she manages a team of evaluation professionals providing oversight on the design implementation and quality of evaluationsSince the Rio Earth Summit 1992 the GEF has been one of the largest players in the environmental sector providing around 24 billion in grants plus marshalling an additional 138 billion in cofinancing over 5700 projects in 170 countries till 2020Through the GEFs Small Grants Programme SGP more than 20000 grants were given to civil society and communitybased organizations totalling over 1 billionThe GEF is a partnership for international cooperation with 183 countries working together with international institutions private sector and civil society to address global environmental concernsFor the past over 23 years developed and developing countries have provided funds to support activities pertaining to biodiversity climate change international waters land degradation chemicals and waste in the context of development projects and programsBatra has coauthored books and articles plus managed over 100 evaluations and is interested in development issues with a particular focus on promoting the use of feasible and practical approaches in monitoring and evaluation to help achieve better outcomesShe lives in Northern Virginia with her husband Prakash and their daughter RoshiniWhen she is not working Batra loves the outdoors goes hiking in national parks reads historical biographies besides tries out different types of mouthwatering cuisinesHowever she confessed with a smile that her alltime favourite foods include Indias good old pavbhaji panipuri puri and chholebhatureQuaid Najmi can be contacted at qnajmiiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-born-economist-geeta-batra-named-as-first-woman-director-of-world-banks-gef-523495.html Sun, 25 Feb 2024 12:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jaahnavi-kandula-death-us-hindu-group-asks-where-is-justice-523199.html New York Feb 24 A top Hindu advocacy group in the US has said that it is shocking and disheartening to see that the investigation into the killing of Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula is dismissed with no charges against those who struck her Kandula a student of the Northeastern University in South Lake Union died after she was hit by a Seattle Police vehicle driven by officer Kevin Dave at a pedestrian crossing on the night of January 23 last yearAuthorities in the US ruled on Wednesday that Dave will not face any criminal charges due to the lack of sufficient evidenceHindu advocacy group Coalition of Hindus of North America CoHNA said on Friday local time that it is doubly shocking that such serious violations of civil rights of Hindus of different backgrounds and ages do not even merit any restorative justiceIt is shocking and disheartening to see the investigation into the killing of JaahnaviKandula be dismissed with no charges against those who struck her Where is justice for the family of this young international student run over in a Seattle sidewalk by a police car CoHNA said in a post on XThe group said that they are reminded of the infamous 2015 case of Sureshbhai Patel who faced police brutality that left him paralysedPatel then 57 was out for a walk in a neighborhood in Alabama when a 27yearold police officer Eric Parker searched him for weaponsHe then took the Indian national to the ground which resulted in serious spinal cord injury and paralysisCoHNA said that charges against Parker were similarly dismissed due to lack of sufficient evidenceThe King County Prosecutors Office said in a statement on Wednesday that they will not be moving ahead with the trial against Seattle Police Officer Dave and no criminal charges will be pressed against himKandula was thrown 100 feet when she was struck by the speeding police patrol vehicle and died on the spot IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jaahnavi-kandula-death-us-hindu-group-asks-where-is-justice-523199.html Sat, 24 Feb 2024 10:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-former-prison-officer-jailed-for-bribery-bid-in-singapore-522933.html Singapore Feb 23 A 57yearold Indianorigin former prison officer in Singapore was sentenced to more than three years in jail on Friday for attempting to seek bribes totalling SG133000 in exchange for transferring an inmate out of his jail cluster Kobi Krishna Ayavoo a retired senior chief warder was convicted of eight charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act The Straits Times newspaper reportedIn addition he was found guilty of instigating his colleagues to access the prison system to view the inmates information in July 2017 following which he was suspendedThe prosecution told the court that Kobi sought bribes from an inmate named Chong Keng Chye on eight separate occasions between September 2015 and March 2016 to pay his car loan instalments house renovations a birthday celebration and credit card billsChong who was sentenced to 20 years of preventive detention in 2005 for beating his girlfriends sevenyearold son until the child died wanted a transfer out of a cluster in Changi PrisonKobi tried to obtain between SG3000 and SG42000 but did not receive any money from him as Chong knew Kobi did not have the capability or the authority to help him the court was toldClaiming that Chong lied Kobi denied asking for money from him on any of the eight occasions and said that he spoke to him only during yard time when there were always inmates within hearing distance IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-former-prison-officer-jailed-for-bribery-bid-in-singapore-522933.html Fri, 23 Feb 2024 13:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jaishankar-praises-indian-community-in-canadas-saskatchewan-province-522252.html New Delhi Jan 20 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday lauded the Indian community in Canadas Saskatchewan province as he welcomed the regions Premier for the 9th Raisina Dialogue hereTaking to X Jaishankar wrote it was great to meet Premier Scott Moe and praised the Indians for serving as a bridge between the two nations Appreciate PremierScottMoes strong support for our partnership and looking forward to deepening our cooperation Jaishankar said as he also shared a picture of the two leaders shaking hands An important supplier of potash lentils and uranium Saskatchewans Indianorigin community has truly been a bridge between us he added Saskatchewan is home to 15660 Indians according to the 2021 census and from 2016 to 2021 immigrants from India made up 184 per cent of total immigrants moving into the province The provinces exports to India stand at more than 1 billion and roughly make up a third of Canadas total exports to the country In addition the province also has a trade and investment office in New Delhi Following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus allegations relating to the death of a Canadian national by Indian agents in September last year Moe had told CBC news channel that such issues between Ottawa and New Delhi should be kept separate from the trade relationship with the country Moe had also led a highlevel delegation to India in March last year and met Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh During the meeting a discussion was held on cooperation and joint ventures in areas like electric vehicles quantum technologies green hydrogen fuel and deep ocean mining among others Moe said that CanadaIndia relations have made great strides in recent years and have become truly multidimensional spurred by a significant convergence of interests mutual goodwill and exchange After the meeting Singh had said that the 23 millionstrong Indian diaspora was reinforcing IndoCanadian relations and contributing to the development of both nations Meanwhile leaders from across the world have begun arriving in the capital for the Raisina Dialogue Indias premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday announced the touch down of Foreign Ministers Lyonpo DN Dhungyel from Bhutan Gabrielius Landsbergis from Lithuania and Margus Tsahkna from Estonia The countrys flagship conference on geopolitics will witness the participation of representatives from over 100 countries and over 2500 participants from about 115 countries will be joining the inperson dialogue According to a Ministry of External Affairs release the theme of the 2024 edition is Chaturanga Conflict Contest Cooperate Create IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jaishankar-praises-indian-community-in-canadas-saskatchewan-province-522252.html Tue, 20 Feb 2024 20:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/top-us-consular-official-visits-missions-in-mumbai-chennai-delhi-521910.html New York Feb 20 US Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Rena Bitter arrived in India to engage with embassy and consulate colleagues in Chennai Mumbai and New DelhiDuring her weeklong visit which will conclude on February 27 she will also be visiting Doha to observe the work of US consular teams a US State Department statement saidIn India home to the second largest US consular operation in the world she will visit facilities in Chennai and Mumbai and lead a delegation in a bilateral consular dialogue with counterparts in New DelhiOur consular operations in India and Qatar bolster the critical peopletopeople and economic ties the US shares with these vital partners the statement said The Assistant Secretarys trip highlights our sustained commitment to the protection of US citizens overseas and the facilitation of legitimate travel and immigration to the USHer visit follows a year of recordbreaking visa issuances in the country with Indians now representing one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the worldThe US Embassy and Consulates in India processed 14 million visas during 2023 and appointment wait time dropped by 75 per cent according to the US EmbassyBitters visit comes just as Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard R Verma arrived in India on February 18 to advance the USIndia global strategic partnership on a full range of issues including economic development security and technologyVerma who served as the 25th US Ambassador to India from 2014 to 2017 met Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on MondayVermas India visit is part of a threenation tour from February 1823 which will also cover Maldives and Sri Lanka in an attempt to strengthen the countrys cooperation with each of these key IndoPacific partners IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/top-us-consular-official-visits-missions-in-mumbai-chennai-delhi-521910.html Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-english-test-scandal-foreign-students-launch-legal-action-against-home-office-521913.html London Feb 20 A group of international students who were falsely accused of cheating in English language tests in the UK have launched legal proceedings against the Home OfficeThe students many of them from countries like India and Pakistan are now seeking compensation for unlawful detention false imprisonment loss of earnings and damage to their mental health ITV News reportedBindmans a law firm representing 23 students who have already won immigration appeals and had their visas returned is now working to obtain a blanket compensation scheme for themBetween October 2020 and March 2022 the firm issued 23 claims with only one case being settled so farThe move comes 10 years after the Home Office abruptly terminated the visas of 35000 international students making their stay in the country illegal overnightA 2014 BBC documentary reported organised cheating at two of the UKs language testing centres for international students run by third parties on behalf of USbased test provider Educational Testing Service ETSAfter the BBC report then Home Secretary Theresa May asked ETS to investigate which found that 97 per cent of its English tests taken in the UK between 2011 and 2014 were in some way suspiciousA 2019 report by the Public Accounts Committee said the Home Office rushed to penalise overseas students and did not bother to find out whether ETS was involved in fraud or if it had reliable evidenceGiven scale of fraud it is impossible to say that nobody was wrongly affected and we acknowledge a number of appeals have succeeded However we continue to believe there was a largescale problem with cheating a Home Office spokesperson told ITV NewsThe students had also approached and presented a petition to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in March last year seeking his help to clear their namesIn their petition to the Prime Minister the students called for a simple free mechanism to apply for a decision or reconsideration of their case IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-english-test-scandal-foreign-students-launch-legal-action-against-home-office-521913.html Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-university-slammed-for-confusing-sikhs-with-muslims-in-social-media-post-521923.html London Feb 20 Members of the Sikh community in the UK have slammed the University of Birmingham for confusing them with Muslims in a social media post saying that these mistakes should not happen in 2024The University deleted and apologised for the post incorrectly claiming that a recent langar community meal event hosted by its Sikh students was part of an Islamic awareness week The Birmingham Mail newspaper reported on MondayStudents within the universitys Sikh Society hosted the event earlier this month serving free vegetarian meals on the campusBut they were left disappointed when a staff member tagged their event in a post with the text Discover Islam Week which is an annual awareness campaign run by the universitys Islamic SocietyIt is disappointing There is clearly an issue with the training and education given to the staff Jasveer Singh a member of Sikh Press Association told the newspaperSingh said that aspects of Sikhism are taught at the University which has lecturers from the community and regularly hosts Sikh eventsSocial media users described the mistake as embarrassing that left them utterly gobsmackedThe university sincerely apologises for any offence or upset this has been caused We recognise this post was incorrect It was identified shortly after being posted and immediately deleted a University of Birmingham spokesperson saidThe university respects and celebrates the diversity of our community and continually works to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment We have made contact with relevant individuals and groups to apologise directly and listen to their viewsSingh said that the University owes a wider apology to two groups for the mistake IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-university-slammed-for-confusing-sikhs-with-muslims-in-social-media-post-521923.html Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-launches-construction-of-houses-for-plantation-workers-in-sri-lanka-521758.html Colombo Feb 19 India has launched the construction of houses for the Indian origin plantation workers across six different provinces in Sri LankaThe construction will be carried out under the Indian Housing Project IHP and around 1300 houses will be built for 10 000 for Indian origin plantation workersSri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Monday virtually launched the project along with Indian High Commissioner Santosh JhaIn May 2017 during his visit to the plantation regions of Sri Lanka Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced Phase IV of IHPAlong President Wickremesinghe on November 2 2023 the foundation stone for the project was laid by Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her visit to Indias southern neighbourGovernment of Indias total commitment under the flagship IHP currently stands at 60000 houses In the first two phases 46000 houses were covered in Northern and Eastern Provinces Indian High Commission in Colombo saidIt said that under PhaseIII at least 4000 houses being built for plantation workers are at the verge of completionIndian origin Tamil community and plantation regions have been of specific focus under the government of Indias development cooperation partnership with Sri LankaThe overall portfolio of grant projects alone stands at more than SLR 30 billion or nearly Indian rupees 8 billionIn addition to the remaining 14000 houses India launched another landmark project which is the construction of a multispecialty hospital in Dickoya in the Central upcountryMarking the 200 years of arrival of the Indian origin Tamil community to Sri Lanka in July 2023 a multisectoral package of SLR 3 billion was also announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the visit of President Ranil Wickremesinghe to India IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/india-launches-construction-of-houses-for-plantation-workers-in-sri-lanka-521758.html Mon, 19 Feb 2024 17:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/from-us-to-uae-as-hindus-abroad-grow-so-do-their-places-of-worship-521788.html New Delhi Feb 19 The construction inauguration and restoration of its temples across the world is yet another testament to India building and deepening its ties with its 32 millionplusstrong diaspora and an estimated 12 billion Hindus across the worldMuch before the British arrived in India and years after they left the continuous migration of Hindus as traders indentured labourers skilled workers and highly qualified professionals has given rise to several temples in the countries they settled inIt is estimated that there are around two million Hindu temples across the world and some of the noted ones include the Angkor Wat in Cambodia the Prambanan temple in Indonesia Nepals Pashupatinath Temple and Australias Shiva Vishnu TempleIn Thailand the construction of Hindu temples started in the third and fourth centuries AD with the earliest images of Lord Vishu being found and in Vietnam the Cham people built several Hindu templesThere are temples not only in India and the Indian subcontinent but in many regions beyond External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had aptly said during his visit to Cambodia in 2022Asserting that our civilisation is not limited to India but is spread across countries Jaishankar in a way suggested why it is important for the country to build as well as ensure the revival and restoration of temples across the worldAccording to Hindus these places of worship are necessary to keep them and their coming generations rooted and connected to their culture values beliefs and traditionsFar away from my home and family these temples to me are a source of strength and support said Kajal Dhadwal a mother of two who has been living in Tanzania for more than 14 yearsLiving close to the Arusha city she frequents the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and the ISKON centre thereAs the number of Hindus across the world grow from strength to strength so does their need for more places of worshipAccording to the External Affairs Ministry the number of Indians who moved abroad for good was 225620 in 2022 and 87026 till June 2023Bolstering this Hindu spirit Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Abu Dhabis first Hindu temple the BAPS Mandir on February 14 He stated in his address that the UAE has written a golden chapter and won the hearts of 140 crore Indians and that this temple will be a symbol of communal harmony and unity of the worldThe UAE has three other Hindu temples that are located in Dubai The event came just weeks after he presided over the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in AyodhyaBefore this the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham the worlds largest Hindu temple constructed outside India was inaugurated in the Robbinsville Township of New Jersey in October last yearIn 2019 Modi launched a multimilliondollar renovation project for the 200yearold Shrinathji Temple in Bahrains ManamaThe demand for temples in foreign lands grows as they not only provide a place of worship but exhibit rich Indian architecture sculptures and scripture carvings on walls that get global recognition for the community in that countryAs a soft power countries realise that the construction of Hindu shrines will help strengthen their economy and tourism in addition to boosting bilateral ties and better peopletopeople contacts IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/from-us-to-uae-as-hindus-abroad-grow-so-do-their-places-of-worship-521788.html Mon, 19 Feb 2024 18:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-jailed-for-life-over-murder-committed-30-years-ago-520973.html London Feb 17 A 51yearold Indianorigin man who murdered a mother of two children 30 years ago has been sentenced to life after new DNA techniques used on a single hair left at the scene proved he was the killerSandip Patel who stabbed 39yearold Marina Koppel more than 140 times in a flat in Westminster on August 8 1994 was convicted of murder and sentenced at the Old Bailey court the BBC reported on FridayPatel who was a 21yearold student at the time of the murder became a suspect in 2022 after investigators found a hair strand stuck in a ring worn by KoppelWhile sentencing Patel Justice Cavanagh said aggravating factors included the use of and attempted disposal of a knife the gratuitous and sustained violence the vulnerability of Koppel and a lack of remorse the news outlet reportedThe terror and pain that you inflicted on Koppel is difficult to imagine You deprived her of many more years of life No sentence that I pass can compensate the family of Mrs Koppel for their loss he addedThe jury deliberated for more than three hours before finding Patel guiltyAccording to the Metropolitan Police Koppels husband found her body unresponsive and covered in blood when he reached her Westminster flat and alerted the policeFollowing a crime scene analysis police found the ring and a plastic shopping bag that had Patels fingerprints on itHowever Patel worked in the shop where the bag had come from so the presence of his fingerprints was not considered significant evidence and for many years the case went unsolved the Metropolitan Police said in a statement released on ThursdayThe needle of suspicion pointed at Patel only in 2022 when sensitive techniques available allowed for a DNA profile to be obtained from the hair on the ringUnsolved historic murders can be among some of the most complex and challenging cases for police to solve However todays result provides an example where forensic science newer technologies and collaborative working practices have had a positive impact in bringing a brutal killer to justice Operational Forensic Manager Dan Chester Metropolitan Police saidPatel was arrested on January 19 2023 on suspicion of Koppels murder after which fingerprint experts also matched his footprints to some bloodstained bare footprints that were found at the crime sceneA bank card belonging to Koppel stolen from her flat was used by Patel at a cash point just half a mile from his home shortly after the murderMarinas family members were left distraught after her death and sadly her husband died in 2005 before he saw her killer brought to justice the police saidShe Koppel was a loving mother and worked hard to send money home to her family in Columbia including her two children who were being cared for by her family there the police statement readIn a victim impact statement read out in court Koppels son said that it is not easy for him to relive the saddest moment of his life I am convinced that my mum had a lot of life to live still it was not her time and this is very painful it tears my very soul IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-jailed-for-life-over-murder-committed-30-years-ago-520973.html Sat, 17 Feb 2024 11:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/foreign-students-falsely-accused-in-uk-test-scandal-to-pitch-tv-drama-on-lines-of-mr-bates-520741.html London Feb 16 Indians and several other international students unjustly accused of cheating in English language tests in the UK are creating a television drama pitch on the lines of Mr Bates vs the Post Office to highlight their struggles and seek justice in a decadelong unresolved issueThe recently released ITV drama series showed how hundreds of Post Office employees fought back to clear their names after they were falsely prosecuted for theft and fraud because of faulty accounting software forcing politicians to sit up and take noticeThe Home Office abruptly terminated the visas of 35000 international students making their stay in the country illegal overnight after a 2014 BBC documentary reported allegations of cheating at two of the UKs language testing centres for overseas studentsWhile some 7200 students left the country after detention threats many stayed protesting flawed evidence as they struggled with homelessness huge legal fees and stressinduced illnessesAccording to The Guardian students from India Pakistan and several other countries met recently to begin chronicling their prolonged struggle in a final attempt to bring politicians and the publics attention to the issue which largely went unnoticed in the mainstreamIf it takes a drama to make people understand then well make a drama Weve been inspired by how people have responded to the Post Office drama and there are so many parallels Nazek Ramadan Director of Migrant Voice told the DailyThe charity has been fighting for these students since 2017 and is now helping them to write their stories and has sought the advice of a film director who previously showed interest in the charitys workThis is a huge injustice that most people still dont know about Thousands of students young men and women who came here in good faith had their lives ruined We want people to empathise and support them What they went through must be documented she told The GuardianAbdul Qadir Mohammad 36 who left India in 2010 to study business in London spent more than 20000 pounds trying to clear his name in the scandal pushing him and his family into debtHe said he gets panic attacks and feels ashamed to face my family back home who ask him Abdul you have lived in the UK for 14 years What have you achievedAccording to the news report 33yearold Navjot Kaur who came to Britain from Amritsar to study tourism management when she was 19 is looking forward to converting her experiences into dramaI had no need to cheat in the English test This has ruined my life and my career she saidMeanwhile fresh evidence has been presented in the court this month that questions the Home Offices move against the foreign studentsThe students had also approached and presented a petition to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in March last year seeking his help to clear their namesIn their petition to the Prime Minister the students called for a simple free mechanism to apply for a decision or reconsideration of their case IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/foreign-students-falsely-accused-in-uk-test-scandal-to-pitch-tv-drama-on-lines-of-mr-bates-520741.html Fri, 16 Feb 2024 16:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tulsi-gabbard-open-to-talks-on-running-as-trumps-mate-discusses-foreign-policy-520556.html Washington Feb 16 HinduAmerican Tulsi Gabbard a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate has spoken to Republican frontrunner Donald Trump and his advisors about the countrys foreign policy keeping her options as the former Presidents 2024 running mate open media reports suggestedThe first Hindu in the US Congress left the Democratic Party in 2022 calling it an elitist cabal of warmongers and accusing its leadership of cowardly wokenessNow with the country likely set for a TrumpJoe Biden rematch in 2024 the talks with Gabbard focused on how the Defence Department should be run in case of a second Trump term The Washington Post reported Also with Trump telling his advisors and donors time and again that his personnel choices at the Pentagon cost him there were broader conversations on how Trump 20 would manage things differentlyA military veteran who served in the Iraq war between 2004 and 2005 for the Hawaii Army National Guard before entering Congress Gabbard has long been critical of US intervention overseas and has also blamed Russias invasion of Ukraine on Bidens failed foreign policyShe appeals to Republicans who are skeptical of intervention overseas which is now a majority of Republican voters GOP strategist Andrew Surabian told NewsweekWhile appearing on Fox News Fox amp Friends recently the former Hawaii representative said she would be open to a conversation with Trump on running as his 2024 running mateId be open to that conversation My mission in life is to serve our country and serve the American people and find the best way to be able to do that Gabbard saidGabbard recently inked a deal with Elon Musk to host a show on X to defend free speech saying she will be sharing stories of those whose voices have been silencedTrump bulldozing his way to grab the crucial GOP nomination for the 2024 presidential race is yet to announce his vicepresidential pickWhile media speculation throws up several candidates Trump has said very little about whom he or she he has shortlisted or even what qualities hes looking for in a potential candidate media reports said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tulsi-gabbard-open-to-talks-on-running-as-trumps-mate-discusses-foreign-policy-520556.html Fri, 16 Feb 2024 10:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-national-dies-in-flooding-as-severe-weather-batters-australias-queensland-520568.html Melbourne Feb 16 An Indian national has died in a flooding incident in Queensland as wild weather battered the region with severe rain and thunderstorms the Indian High Commission in Canberra said on FridayExpressing condolences the Indian mission said that it is in touch with the family and providing all possible assistanceHeartbreaking tragedy in Australia an Indian national lost her life in a flooding incident near Mount Isa Queensland Deepest condolence to the family of the deceased Mission team is in touch for all necessary assistance the Indian High Commission posted on XWhile further details are awaited the victims name was not revealed by the missionThe local media reported that a 28yearold woman was found dead inside a partially submerged car in floodwaters in Queensland on FridayAustralias Bureau of Meteorology in the country has issued a severe thunderstorm alert for parts of southeast Queensland which includes heavy rainfall warnings across Logan Redland City and parts of BrisbaneAccording to the most recent update by the bureau a severe thunderstorm was likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flashflooding in some parts of the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-national-dies-in-flooding-as-severe-weather-batters-australias-queensland-520568.html Fri, 16 Feb 2024 10:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-meets-indian-diaspora-in-qatar-says-grateful-to-community-520279.html Doha Feb 15 Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the Indian diaspora in Qatar and said that he is grateful to the community as he arrived in Doha after concluding a whirlwind twoday trip to the UAEHe arrived here late on WednesdayAfter June 2016 this is Modis second visit to the country home to roughly 840000 IndiansAn exceptional welcome in Doha Grateful to the Indian diaspora the PM posted on X along with pictures of him being greeted by Indian community membersHe said in an earlier statement that the presence of the strong Indian community in Doha is a testament to our strong peopletopeople tiesOn his arrival he was received by Soltan bin Saad AlMuraikhi State Minister for Foreign Affairs and proceeded to meet his Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al ThaniThe two leaders discussed ways to boost friendship between the two countriesHad a wonderful meeting with PM MBAAlThani Our discussions revolved around ways to boost IndiaQatar friendship Modi wrote on XThe External Affairs Ministry said that the PM held a fruitful meeting with the Qatari PM with their discussions covering expanding bilateral cooperation in sectors such as trade amp investment energy and finance among othersOn Thursday PM Modi is expected to meet the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and hold talks on bilateral as well as regional and global issuesBilateral trade between India and Qatar currently stands at roughly 20 billion and Qatar is also a significant investor in India across a whole range of economiesThe visit is timely as it comes just after the release of eight exIndian Navy personnel who were sentenced to death on espionage charges by Qatar last yearThey were employees of the Dohabased company Dahra Global and were taken into custody in August 2022They were identified as Captain Navtej Singh Gill Captain Birendra Kumar Verma Captain Saurabh Vasisht Commander Amit Nagpal Commander Purnendu Tiwari Commander Sugunakar Pakala Commander Sanjeev Gupta and Sailor RajeshThe appellate court in Qatar in December last year commuted their death sentence to imprisonment ranging between three years and 25 years IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-meets-indian-diaspora-in-qatar-says-grateful-to-community-520279.html Thu, 15 Feb 2024 17:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/i-heard-my-mothers-last-screams-canadian-sikh-shooting-survivor-slams-cops-for-inaction-520283.html Toronto Feb 15 With 13 bullets pumped inside her body the lone survivor of a shooting spree in Canada last year who watched her Sikh parents die in front of her wants swift justice and says police didnt do their duty wellJagtar Singh Sidhu and Harbhajan Kaur both in their 50s were shot more than 20 times just before midnight on November 20 at their rental property along the CaledonBrampton border in Ontario provinceWhile Sidhu died on the spot Harbhajan succumbed to injuries in the hospital where she was rushed along with their daughter Jaspreet Kaur SidhuSpeaking to CBC News from her hospital bed Jaspreet said a man broke into her familys Caledon rental home and started shootingMy father was shot in front of me I heard my mothers last screams and after that there was complete silence Only the noises of gunshots were there I didnt even get to meet them for the last time a choked Jaspreet told the news channelI wasnt able to do anything I called 911 as soon as I got my consciousness back Whole family shot this is what I was saying repeatedly she saidJaspreet and her brother Gurdit Singh had come to Canada as students a few years ago and sponsored the arrival of their parents who came to the country in July and were supposed to return to India in January this yearThe heartbroken children are seeking answers to several questions which include a visit by an officer from Peel Regional Polices Homicide and Missing Persons Bureau to meet his parents just four days before their murderJaspreet said that almost two months into the tragic incident the police still say Its under investigation and have no concrete evidenceLaunching a homicide investigation soon after the incident the Ontario Provincial Police said in a release that they believed multiple suspects were involved in the deaths that occurred in a possible case of mistaken identityWhatever happened the police didnt do their duty well Nobody contacted us nobody gave any answers she saidPeel Police came before this happened at our house My parents were home and they didnt know English So they contacted my brothers friend to talk to the policeA spokesperson for Peel police had confirmed that the homicide bureau did connect with the family on November 16 about an undisclosed investigationWe have been sending multiple emails out more than 2000 emails have been sent to different authorities Nobody replied Its just its hardJaspreet said that the cops were there on the driveway for a long time after making inquiries and checking passportsIf they had warned us we could have left right away Jaspreet said adding that she is scared for her brother Gurdits life who was not at home when the incident happenedThankfully he wasnt home We dont know if were safe to go out Every time my brother goes out I am scared Every night I call him multiple times If any stranger comes to my room I always get scared Jaspreet who is on a long road to recovery from her physical and mental injuries told CBCIt took more than 1819 hours for my surgery and the doctors didnt think I would survive I still have to learn sitting standing walking Some days are okay some days are filled with pain lots of pain and panic attacks she saidAppearing frail but with an iron resolve Jaspreet said she wont stop until justice is deliveredIf this happened with us today tomorrow it can happen with anyone else IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/i-heard-my-mothers-last-screams-canadian-sikh-shooting-survivor-slams-cops-for-inaction-520283.html Thu, 15 Feb 2024 17:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haryana-man-sentenced-for-stealing-150k-from-elderly-woman-in-us-520285.html New York Feb 15 An Indian national hailing from Haryana has been sentenced to more than four years in prison for his role in stealing 150000 from an elderly woman in the US state of MontanaSukhdev Vaid 24 admitted targeting elderly Americans via an international computerhacking scheme that resulted in more than 12 million in total losses US Attorney Jesse Laslovich said on WednesdayThe court ordered that upon his release from custody Vaid will be remanded to the Bureau of Customs and Immigration Enforcement for deportation and asked him to pay 1236470 restitutionIt has become all too common for people outside of our country to victimise Montanans especially as it relates to wire fraud and get away with it But not this time Vaid is going to federal prison Attorney Laslovich saidPhantom Hacker scams layer imposter tech support financial and government personas to gain access to someones computer and personal information Sadly these scams are increasingly targeting our seniors said Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBISinha said what added to the depravity of the case was that the scammer traveled overseas to collect the victims money in personThe government alleged in court documents that a large enterprise originating from India was involved in stealing 1236470 from elderly AmericansThe Montana case arose in February 2023 when Glacier Bank notified the FBI that Jane Doe a 73yearold woman in Kalispell had been defraudedThe fraudsters tricked Jane Doe into giving them money through a popup notice that appeared on Jane Does computer screenThe notice explained that Jane Doe had been hacked and for her to call a number for customer supportJane Doe complied and fraudsters directed her to remove cash from her bank accounts for safekeeping at the Fed She gave 150000 in cash to the fraudstersAfter learning of the scam the FBI set up a ruse in which Jane Doe told the fraudsters she still had 50000 in cashThe FBI arrested Vaid along with his codefendant Eddly Joseph of Gainesville Florida when they traveled to Montana to collect the moneyThe investigation determined that the fraudsters remotely accessed Jane Does computer using UltraViewer which they installed on her computerJoseph was sentenced previously to two years and nine months in prison for his conviction in the caseTo protect yourself never click on unsolicited popups links sent by text message or email dont download software at the request of someone you dont know and always remember that the government and law enforcement will never call and ask you for money FBIs Sinha said in a statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haryana-man-sentenced-for-stealing-150k-from-elderly-woman-in-us-520285.html Thu, 15 Feb 2024 17:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/elderly-indian-american-motel-owner-shot-dead-after-altercation-over-room-rental-520289.html New York Feb 15 A 76yearold Indianorigin motel owner has been shot dead in the US state of Alabama following a confrontation over room rentalPravin Raojibhai Patel the owner of the Hillcrest Motel in Sheffield was gunned down last week after which police arrested 34yearold William Jeremy Moore Alabamabased news outlet alcom reportedMoore was arrested shortly after the incident as he was trying to break into an abandoned house on 13th Avenue Sheffield Police Chief Ricky Terry saidAccording to investigators Moore wanted to rent a room at the motel when an altercation with Patel took place on February 8 following which the former pulled a handgun and shot the elderly manWhen searching Moore the murder weapon was found in his possession Terry saidThe police chief added that Moore is currently being held in the Sheffield City Jail until a warrant is issued after which he will be transported to the Colbert County JailJemeriz Owens who works as a barber across the street from Patels motel told WAAY 31 news channel that he heard three gunshots go off backtobackHe Patel was outside He was just trying to get somebody to leave and they didnt want to leave and they shot him Owens saidPatels body was transported to the Alabama Forensics Lab for an autopsy and a funeral service was held for him at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia on February 12 according to his obituaryCalling the incident a senseless act of violence the Asian American Hotel Owners Association AAHOA said on Thursday that the countrys hotel owners are deeply saddened shocked and outragedSenseless acts of violence have no place in our communities and our hearts are breaking for Pravins family including his wife children and grandchildren said AAHOA Chairman Bharat PatelNo family should have to endure what Pravins family is going through and we send our condolences to everyone who knew and loved himHoping that authorities will help the Patel family find justice AAHOA Alabama Regional Director Sanjay M Patel said the motel owner spent more than four decades in the town of Sheffield owning and operating the same businessHe was a very familyoriented person jolly and a keen businessman Everyone in town knew him as a familiar face in the community after being there for 40plus years and the family was wellknown in the community for being genuine and caring Sanjay Patel saidBeginning this year a series of unfortunate incidents involving the Indian community in the US have been reportedOn Monday an IndianAmerican couple hailing from Kerala and their fouryearold twins were found dead inside their 21 million mansion in San Mateo CaliforniaAnand Sujith Henry 42 and his wife Alice Priyanka 40 were found inside a bathroom with gunshot wounds while their two sons were found in the bedroom with no signs of trauma on their bodies according to the policeLocal media reports said Anand was a former software engineering manager at Meta and Google and wife Alice was a senior analyst IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/elderly-indian-american-motel-owner-shot-dead-after-altercation-over-room-rental-520289.html Thu, 15 Feb 2024 17:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/man-who-ran-child-abuse-sites-along-with-british-indian-jailed-in-uk-520294.html London Feb 15 A mechanic who created and moderated sites dedicated to child sexual abuse on the dark web with an Indianorigin doctor and several others working for him has been jailed for 16 years in the UKNathan Bake 28 from Cheshire was one of three UKbased moderators of a site called The Annex and worked with around 30 staff members to enforce the sites rules and ensure it continued to run smoothlyHe was sentenced on Wednesday at Chester Crown Court to 16 years imprisonment placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life and given a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention OrderAs the head moderator Bake was second in command of The Annex which is no longer active and had around 90000 global members who used it to share and discuss some of the most extreme kinds of abuse material involving hurtcore and the sexual abuse of babies and toddlersKabir Garg a 33yearold Indianorigin psychiatrist from London was one of the staff members and sat just below Bake in the sites hierarchy as one of the moderatorsHe was jailed for six years last year after pleading guilty to eight charges including facilitating the sexual exploitation of children three counts each of making and distributing indecent images of children and possession of prohibited imagesNew users of The Annex would first be held in the gateway where they would have to impress and gain the trust of the sites administrators by posting a certain amount of abuse material before being granted access to the wider siteBake Garg and other moderators would advise members on techniques to evade law enforcement detection and encourage them to keep the site busy by sharing links to child abuse contentBake was one of a select number of individuals who played a vital role in ensuring The Annex continued to run and was able to facilitate child sexual abuse on a global scale said Daniel Waywell Senior Investigating Officer from the National Crime Agency NCANCA officers arrested Bake at his home in Runcorn in November 2022 and seized several devices including laptops phones USBs and external hard drivesThey gathered evidence from his devices which proved Bake was cocreator of a second child abuse site and was also the head moderator of a directorystyle page which contained links to further abuse forums on the dark webHundreds of thousands of indecent images and videos of children were also recovered from his storage devices as was the 576page paedophile manualBake pleaded guilty to 12 counts in November 2023 including facilitating the sexual exploitation of children participating in an organised crime group possession of a paedophile manual and distributing and making indecent images of childrenLike Blake Garg was also given a Serious Harm Prevention Order and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for lifeHe was arrested from his flat in Lewisham in November 2022 at a time when the site was open on his laptopInvestigations showed that Garg was responsible for enforcing the rules of the site and removing members who did not complyOver 7000 images and videos of child abuse were also recovered along with messages that showed him applying for and being promoted to a site moderator rank with greater responsibility and accessAdam Priestley from the National Crime Agency said that as a doctor of psychiatry Garg knew full well the devastating impact and trauma that abuse causes children but this did not deter him IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/man-who-ran-child-abuse-sites-along-with-british-indian-jailed-in-uk-520294.html Thu, 15 Feb 2024 17:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/11-us-bound-indian-nationals-taken-hostage-in-nepal-rescued-520138.html Kathmandu Feb 14 Nepal Police on Wednesday said that they have rescued 11 US bound Indians who were taken hostage by a gang in KathmanduThe police said that they raided a house in Ratopul area and rescued the Indian nationals who were taken hostage by an unidentified gang last one monthThe unidentified gang has received huge money from each Indian national and later brought them to Nepal on pretext of sending them to the USa senior Nepal Police official told IANSHe said that police have also arrested seven individuals involved in human traffickingIt was found that each individual had paid 45 million Indian rupees to the racketeers who promised them to traffic to the US the police official saidThe officials said that the Kathmandu Range of Nepal Police will also organise a press conference on Thursday and will share the details about the incidentThe officials said that the racketeers were trying to send them to the US via NepalUpon investigation we came to know that some people were taken hostage in the house Most of those Indians are from Delhi and Haryana officials said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/11-us-bound-indian-nationals-taken-hostage-in-nepal-rescued-520138.html Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/burj-khalifa-lit-up-with-indian-tricolour-ahead-of-modis-address-at-dubai-summit-519926.html Dubai Feb 14 Sheathed in the hues of the Indian Tricolour Dubais iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with the words Guest of Honour Republic of India ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis keynote address at the 2024 World Governments Summit scheduled to take place in the emirate on Wednesday Modi is on a twoday visit to the UAE his seventh in ten years to deepen bilateral relations and inaugurate the BAPS Mandir the first Hindu temple in Abu DhabiTaking to his X on Wednesday the Prime Minister said that in his address he will strengthen conversations around building a better planetIt is an honour to be speaking at the WorldGovSummit later today I shall be elaborating on a wide range of subjects which will strengthen the conversations around building a better planet he saidExtending a warm welcome to Modi Dubais Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared on X two images of the Burj Khalifa lit up with colours of the Indian flag and logo of the World Governments SummitHe said that the strong ties between the two nations serve as a model for international cooperation and that it is a pleasure to have India as a distinguished guest at the eventThe WorldGovSummit has evolved into one of the worlds leading platforms for sharing governance best practices success stories and initiatives and envisioning the future of government he wrote in a post on XIt is a pleasure to have India as a distinguished guest at this international event where it will showcase its innovations initiatives and projects across diverse sectors that are a model for accelerating development for government service delivery the Crown Prince saidThe Burj Khalifa was last lit up with the Indian Tricolour on Indias 77th Independence Day on August 15 2023 with the national anthem Jana Gana Mana playing in the backgroundUpon landing in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday Modi said that being in the UAE made him feel at home He was greeted by the President of the UAE Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and was accorded the Guard of HonourHe addressed a huge gathering of the Indian diaspora at Abu Dhabis Zayed Sports City Stadium and lauded their contributions in positioning India as a formidable economy and also helping foster friendly ties between the two nations He also thanked the UAE Government for taking good care of nearly 35 million Indians in the Gulf nation IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/burj-khalifa-lit-up-with-indian-tricolour-ahead-of-modis-address-at-dubai-summit-519926.html Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/proud-of-diaspora-will-deepen-indias-bilateral-ties-with-uae-qatar-modi-519710.html New Delhi Feb 13 Hailing the Indian diaspora ahead of his twoday visit to the UAE and Qatar beginning on Tuesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke of close friendly ties and said he will deepen bilateral relations with the two nationsThis will be the Prime Ministers seventh visit to the UAE and second visit to Qatar since 2014Over the next two days I will be visiting UAE and Qatar to attend various programmes which will deepen Indias bilateral relations with these nations the Prime Minister wrote on X on Tuesday as he spoke of the priority we attach to strong IndiaUAE friendshipI am eager to meet my brother HH MohamedBinZayed UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan I will have the honour of inaugurating the first Hindu temple in UAE I will also address the Indian Community at a community programme in Abu Dhabi Modi saidHailing the Indian diasporas efforts to deepen New Delhis engagement with the world the PM said he looks forward to meeting the community at the Hello Modi Alhan Modi event at the Zayed Sports City in UAERoughly 840000 Indians reside in Qatar and at 35 million the community forms the largest expatriate group in the UAE forming an important connect between the host and mother countriesWe are very proud of our diaspora and their efforts to deepen Indias engagement with the world This evening I look forward to being among UAEs Indian diaspora at the AhlanModi programme Do join this memorable occasion Modi wrote on XAhead of inaugurating the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi on February 14 the PM said in his departure statement that the BAPS temple will be an enduring tribute to the values of harmony peace and tolerance which both India and the UAE shareHis other engagements include holding wideranging discussions with President Al Nahyan on taking the IndiaUAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership forwardThe two leaders had met in Gujarat where Al Nahyan was the Chief Guest at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024At the invitation of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President PM and Defence Minister of UAE PM Modi will also address the gathering of world leaders at the World Government Summit in Dubai on February 14 2024My discussions with Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid on the margins of the Summit will focus on strengthening our multifaceted ties with Dubai Modi saidThe UAE has now become Indias secondlargest export destination and the thirdlargest trading partner with bilateral trade currently standing at roughly 85 billionThe UAE also became the fourthlargest FDI investor in India last year In Qatar Modi will meet His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani the Amir under whose leadership the country continues to witness tremendous growth and transformationModis visit to Qatar was announced hours after the release of eight Indian former naval officers detained in the country since August 2022 and sentenced to death by Qatars Court of First Instance on October 26 last yearIndia and Qatar enjoy historically close and friendly relations In recent years our multifaceted ties have continued to deepen in all spheres including highlevel political exchanges growing trade and investment between two countries strengthening of our energy partnership and cooperation in culture and education PM Modi saidHe lauded the presence of the over 800000strong Indian community in Doha as a testament to our strong peopletopeople tiesBilateral trade between India and Qatar currently stands at roughly 20 billion and Qatar is also a significant investor in India across a whole range of economies IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/proud-of-diaspora-will-deepen-indias-bilateral-ties-with-uae-qatar-modi-519710.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-sonali-korde-takes-oath-as-assistant-to-usaid-administrator-519583.html New York Feb 13 IndianAmerican Sonali Korde took oath as assistant to the Administrator of USAIDs Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance BHA on MondayAs the US governments lead for international disaster response the BHA monitors mitigates and responds to global hazards and humanitarian needsSonali most recently served as Deputy to the US Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues charged with leading the countrys diplomacy efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in GazaLeading the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance is one of the toughest jobs at USAID Its a time of peak global conflict climatedriven disasters and displacement and we all know the demand for aid is dramatically outpacing our ability to provide it USAID Administrator Samantha Power said in a statementBHA needs a leader who can deftly navigate bureaucracy to mount efficient responses who has the personal skills the Congressional connections and the budgeting experience to be a powerful advocate for people in need And someone who can cultivate nurture and empower teams to step up and meet the moment That describes Sonali uniquely Sonali unique Sonali Power saidPower said that Sonalis Indian immigrant parents who attended the swearingin ceremony virtually endowed her with a deep appreciation for a world outside of their Cranford New Jersey homeShe praised Sonalis strong sense of justice and a desire to address inequity and unfairness which she said comes from her parentsThey took frequent trips back to India where Sonali saw a tale of two countries such incredible dynamism and burgeoning intellect culture but also such extreme poverty which persists in many parts of the country even with all of the success lifting so many hundreds of millions of people out of poverty but seeing people with and people without Power saidAccording to the BHA Sonali brings extensive experience in legislative affairs national security policy global health and humanitarian aidBefore joining BHA Sonali served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy in the Office of the Administrator at USAID and prior to that as Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator at USAIDs Bureau for Legislative and Public AffairsIn this role she provided strategic and operational oversight of USAIDs engagement with the US Congress including negotiation of USAID legislative and budget issues with members of Congress their committees and staffHaving worked for USAID in various roles since 2004 she has a background in legislative affairs national security policy infectious diseases and emergency humanitarian response and global health the BHA saidFrom 20192020 Sonali served as Senior Policy Advisor on the Ebola response in Eastern Congo as well as Deputy Director for Coordination on the Covid19 responseKorde has an MA in International Relations from Yale University and a BS in Economics from New York University IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-sonali-korde-takes-oath-as-assistant-to-usaid-administrator-519583.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/another-sikh-separatists-house-hit-by-gunfire-in-canada-519592.html Toronto Feb 13 The house of a Sikh separatist associated with proKhalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who is a designated terrorist in India has been hit by gunfire in Canadas Ontario province a media report saidThe incident comes just days after multiple shots were fired at the Surrey home of Simranjeet Singh a friend of banned Khalistan Tiger Force leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar a designated terrorist in India who was shot dead outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia last yearAccording to The Guardian a bullet hole was found in the window of an unfinished house belonging to Khalistan supporter Inderjit Singh Gosal in Brampton on MondayWhile no injuries were reported the Peel Regional police could not rule out that more shots were fired at the houseBut they confirmed that a single bullet hole had been found with Constable Tyler BellMorena of Peel Regional Police saying it is too early to link the shooting to Gosals role in the Khalistan movementGosal recently announced that a proKhalistan rally would be held outside the Indian consulate in Toronto on February 17According to the report Gosal works closely with Pannun who is the chief legal counsel of the outlawed Sikhs for Justice and was the target of a foiled assassination bid in the USThe shooting incidents come just as India and Canada accused each other of interfering in their internal affairsRecently Canada named India as a foreign threat that could potentially interfere in their elections months after they accused New Delhi of playing a role in the killing Nijjar on Canadian soil in June last yearIndia categorically denied the allegation levelled by Canadian agencies of interference as absurd and motivatedFurther India said that it is Canada that has been interfering in Indias internal affairs India has time and again asserted that the core issue with Canada is the space it gives to separatists terrorists and antiIndia elements on its soilIt is not the government of Indias policy to interfere in democratic processes of other countries In fact quite on the reverse it is Canada which has been interfering in our internal affairs External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/another-sikh-separatists-house-hit-by-gunfire-in-canada-519592.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-indian-origin-men-indicted-for-committing-visa-fraud-in-us-519604.html New York Feb 13 Two Indianorigin men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Boston for allegedly staging armed robberies to commit visa fraud in the US state of MassachusettsRambhai Patel 36 and Balwinder Singh 39 from New York staged armed robberies so that victims could apply for immigration benefits in exchange for thousands of dollarsThe two were indicted last week on one count each of conspiracy to commit visa fraud according to the US Attorneys Office for the District of MassachusettsPatel was arrested in Seattle on December 13 2023 and following an initial appearance in the Western District of Washington he was ordered detained pending trialSingh was also arrested on the same day in Queens and had his initial appearance in the Eastern District of New YorkAccording to the charging documents beginning March 2023 Patel and his coconspirators including at times Singh set up and carried out staged armed robberiesThese were carried out at eight convenienceliquor stores and fast food restaurants across the US including at least four in MassachusettsIt is alleged that the purpose of the staged robberies was to allow the clerks present to claim that they were victims of a violent crime on an application for U nonimmigration status U VisaA U Visa is available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and who have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activityIn the course of the alleged staged robberies the robber would threaten store clerks andor owners with an apparent firearm before taking cash from the register and fleeing while the interaction was captured on store surveillance videoThe clerks andor owners would then wait five or more minutes until the robber had escaped before calling the police to report the crimeThe victims are alleged to have paid Patel to participate in the scheme In turn Patel allegedly paid the store owners for the use of their stores for the staged robberyOne purported victim allegedly paid 20000 to participate as a victim in one of the staged armed robberiesIt is alleged that at least two purported victim coconspirators submitted U Visa applications based on being victims of the staged armed robberiesThe charge of conspiracy to commit visa fraud provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison three years of supervised release and a fine of 250000 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-indian-origin-men-indicted-for-committing-visa-fraud-in-us-519604.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-meera-joshi-named-to-serve-on-nycs-mta-board-519655.html New York Feb 13 IndianAmerican Meera Joshi has been nominated by New York City Mayor Eric Adams to serve on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority MTA BoardJoshi a deputy mayor for operations for New York City since January 2022 oversees the Adams administrations transportation infrastructure and climate portfoliosAnnouncing her nomination in a statement last week Mayor Adams called Joshi a perfect person to help secure the MTAs future and deliver a worldclass safe reliable and accessible transportation system to all New YorkersNew York Citys transit system is our backbone and once confirmed to the MTA Board Deputy Mayor Joshi will help ensure our backbone is stronger than ever Adams saidJoshi spearheads the administrations street safety work which in 2023 helped make New York City the secondsafest year for pedestrians since Vision Zero began in 2014 a statement from Adams office readIt said that her teams work every day to expand the citys open green and aquatic space reduce New York Citys building and transportation emissions as well as its waste stream and protect New Yorkers from the evermounting threats from excessive heat and rainwaterThe MTA is responsible for public transportation in the New York City metropolitan area of the US state of New York and all its board nominations are subject to a confirmation from the state senateSupporting the MTAs fiscal and operational wellbeing through this moment of transition would be a great honor and privilege Joshi said in a statement expressing she is deeply grateful for the nominationFrom delivering needed upgrades to effectively operationalising congestion pricing I am committed to faithfully serving the people of New York as a member of the MTAs Board of Directors she addedPrior to joining the Adams administration Joshi was US President Joe Bidens nominee for administrator of the US Department of Transportations Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration the agency responsible for regulation of interstate truckingIn addition to her roles in transportation oversight Joshi was previously the inspector general for the New York City Department of Correction responsible for investigations of corruption and criminality at all levels of New York Citys jail operations between 2002 and 2008She was the first deputy executive director of the New York City Civilian Complaint Review Board leading investigations of civilian allegations of police misconductJoshi holds both a BA and JD from the University of Pennsylvania IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-meera-joshi-named-to-serve-on-nycs-mta-board-519655.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 11:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/proud-of-diasporas-efforts-to-deepen-indias-engagement-with-the-world-pm-modi-519672.html New Delhi Feb 13 Beginning his twoday visit to the UAE on Tuesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he is proud of the Indian diasporas efforts to deepen New Delhis engagement with the world and looks forward to meeting the community at the Hello Modi eventTaking to his X account on Tuesday the Prime Minsiter urged the 35 millionplusstrong Indian community in the UAE to join him at the Zayed Sports City for the Alhan Modi event as he visits the Gulf nation for the seventh time since 2015We are very proud of our diaspora and their efforts to deepen Indias engagement with the world This evening I look forward to being among UAEs Indian diaspora at the AhlanModi programme PM Modi saidDo join this memorable occasionSalute the spirit of ahlanmodi volunteers after a long day of rehearsals at the stadium still dancing on their way home So much excitement on having ModiInUAE the Alhan Modi handle on X wroteAccording to local media reports Prime Ministers event has been scaled down with heavy rains lashing Abu Dhabi and other parts of the UAE forcing a reduction in participation strengthFollowing the community event the Prime Minister will be inaugurating the BAPS Mandir the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi which sits on 27 acres of land generously gifted by the UAE leadershipThe Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan donated 135 acres of land in 2015 for the mandirs constructionThe foundation stone of the temple was laid by PM Modi through video conferencing from the Dubai Opera House in 2018 Later in May 2023 diplomats from over 30 countries visited the underconstruction temple siteModi will hold bilateral meetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan the President of the UAE and discuss ways to further deepen expand and strengthen the strategic partnership between the countriesIn addition he will participate in the World Government Summit 2024 as its Guest of Honour IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/proud-of-diasporas-efforts-to-deepen-indias-engagement-with-the-world-pm-modi-519672.html Tue, 13 Feb 2024 12:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-to-strengthen-deep-connect-with-diaspora-foreign-secy-519469.html New Delhi Feb 12 As art of his twonation tour to the UAE and Qatar beginning Tuesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi will strengthen Indias deep connect with its diaspora in both countriesRoughly 840000 Indians reside in Qatar and at 35 million the community forms the largest expatriate group in the UAE forming an important connect between the host and mother countriesA day before inaugurating the BAPS Mandir the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi on February 14 the PM will address the Indian community at an event in Zayed Sports CityOn the 13th itself the Prime Minister will be addressing a community event in Abu Dhabi to further strengthen our deep connect with our diaspora family in the UAE Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra said at a special Ministry of External Affairs briefing on MondayMarking his seventh visit to the nation since 2015 the PM will hold bilateral meetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan the President of the UAE and discuss ways to further deepen expand and strengthen the strategic partnership between the countriesKwatra said that a strong diaspora is an equally important connect between India and Qatar with roughly 840000 strong vibrant Indian community residing thereHe added that the PMs second visit to Qatar on February 14 will provide an opportunity for the top leadership of the two countries to discuss ways to further deepen and strengthen our multifaceted partnership as well as exchange views on different regional and international issues of mutual importanceModis visit to Qatar was announced hours after the release of eight Indian former naval officers detained in the country since August 2022 and sentenced to death by Qatars Court of First Instance on October 26 last yearKwatra added that PM Modi himself personally constantly supervised all the developments in this case and has never shied away from any initiatives that would ensure the return of Indian nationals back to homeWhile the visit to the UAE was announced days in advance the trip to Qatar was announced just after seven navy veterans landed in India on MondayAsked by reporters about this Kwatra said that the Prime Ministers visits are planned and scheduled months in advance IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/pm-modi-to-strengthen-deep-connect-with-diaspora-foreign-secy-519469.html Mon, 12 Feb 2024 18:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/charities-under-strain-as-foreign-students-struggle-in-canada-report-519334.html Toronto Feb 12 With international students struggling amidst worsening housing and affordability issues in Canada charities and support groups say they are under strain and have urged the government to step up supportWith nearly 500000 international students living in the Greater Toronto Area Khalsa Aids national director Jindi Singh says charities are taking on more than their fair share of the load Ottawabased CBC news channel reportedWe truly feel its not really our role Singh told the news outletThe Canadian branch of Khalsa Aid helping over 8000 students struggling to access food clothes and shelter in cities across the country says the government and postsecondary institutions should be doing more to support international students in needJind said that the organisation has been presently receiving five calls a day from international students needing food clothing and shelter especially from Brampton in Ontario province where he said that the situation is acuteSince last June Khalsa Aid has delivered over 5000 grocery bags full of nonperishable food to students in this city which attracts tens of thousands of international students annuallyThe president of the College Student Alliance Azi Afousi told CBC that student unions across Ontario have reported fielding more calls about housing struggles adding that one of her colleagues shares a house with 15 other peopleInternational students contribute about CA22 billion 164 billion annually to the Canadian economy and pay four times more tuition than domestic studentsAccording to a September 2023 report by consulting firm Higher Education Strategy Associates students from India alone contributed 2 billion to Ontarios postsecondary institutions operating income last year compared to roughly 18 billion the provincial government contributedFor colleges and governments to not provide wraparound services like housing food and job referrals is a pure money grab Singh told CBCThis comes even as the government has set out to cap new study permits for international students and cancelling work permits for their spousesHowever Deepa Mattoo of Sukhmani Haven says that the cap doesnt do anything to help the students who are already in Canada and are strugglingWhile they welcomed the study permit cap both Mattoo and Singh urged the government to put in place more support for international students who are already there in the countryThe number of international students in Canada crossed one million mark with Indians leading the pack accounting for 215190 out of the 579075 permits issued till November 2023In addition to the twoyear study permit cap the Canadian government also announced that it will more than double the costofliving financial requirement for incoming international students on January 1 2024Minister of Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Marc Miller said a single applicant will need to show they have 20635 Canadian dollars 15181 in addition to their first year of tuition and travel costsEarlier Canadian opposition leader Pierre Poilievre has blamed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for making a mess of the countrys immigration systemHe said that immigrants international students and temporary foreign workers are not to be blamed for Trudeaus incompetence IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/charities-under-strain-as-foreign-students-struggle-in-canada-report-519334.html Mon, 12 Feb 2024 14:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-english-test-scandal-indians-other-foreign-students-renew-bid-to-clear-their-names-519409.html London Feb 12 A group of international students including many Indians who had their visas revoked almost 10 years ago after accusations of cheating in English language tests in the UK are making renewed efforts to clear their namesAccording to a report in The Guardian fresh evidence has recently been presented in the court that questions the Home Offices cheating allegations against 35000 international studentsThe Home Office abruptly terminated the visas of these students making their stay in the country illegal overnight following a 2014 BBC documentary reporting allegations of cheating at two of the UKs language testing centres for international studentsAbout 2500 students were deported after immigration enforcement teams mounted dawn raids on students accommodation the news report saidWhile some 7200 students left the country after detention threats thousands stayed protesting flawed evidence as they struggled with homelessness huge legal fees and stressinduced illnessesAfter judges and watchdog reports highlighted flaws in the evidence of cheating around 3600 won appeals against the Home Office while the rest of them couldnt because of the prohibitive cost of taking legal actionAbdul Qadir Mohammad 36 who left India in 2010 to study business in London spent more than 20000 pounds trying to clear his name in the scandal pushing him and his family into debtAbdul told The Guardian that he gets panic attacks and feels ashamed to face my family back home who ask him Abdul you have lived in the UK for 14 years What have you achievedmy father is still angry with me He has spent so much money first on my education and then on trying to clear my name He had a small grocery shop and saved up to put 15000 pounds into my college fees Ive got debts on my credit card of 10000 My mother sold her gold to support me he saidThe Hyderabad resident said he feels angry about how the whole issue has been handled destroying his lifeThese tests are easy to pass I had no reason to cheat I want to clear my name and get on with my studies I spend my days sitting in the park desperately waiting for my hearing he told The GuardianThe students had also approached and presented a petition to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in March last year seeking his help to clear their namesIn their petition to the Prime Minister the students called for a simple free mechanism to apply for a decision or reconsideration of their caseThey also wanted the immigration record of every student cleared of cheating facilitate their return to study or support those on work or entrepreneur visas to find new jobs or restart their businesses by removing barriers created by the cheating allegationsAfter the BBC report then Home Secretary Theresa May asked the USbased test provider Educational Testing Service ETS to investigate which found that 97 per cent of its English tests taken in the UK between 2011 and 2014 were in some way suspiciousAccording to a 2019 report by the Public Accounts Committee the Home Office rushed to penalise overseas students and did not bother to find out whether ETS was involved in fraud or if it had reliable evidence IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-english-test-scandal-indians-other-foreign-students-renew-bid-to-clear-their-names-519409.html Mon, 12 Feb 2024 16:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-wanted-in-connection-with-fathers-murder-in-canada-519163.html Toronto Feb 12 Police are on the lookout for a 22yearold Indianorigin son who fled after allegedly murdering his father at their home in Canadas Ontario provinceSukhaj CheemaSingh is wanted for firstdegree murder after 56yearold Kuldip Singh was found with severe injuries at his Stoney Creek home in Hamilton on Saturday nightReleasing an image of CheemaSingh the Hamilton Police said in a release on Sunday that officers were called to a home near Trafalgar Drive and Mud Street at around 740 pm on February 10The victim was transported to hospital where he succumbed to his injuriesWitnesses told officers that CheemaSingh fled the residence in a small darkcoloured SUV following an altercation with his fatherThe vehicle was last seen heading north on Trafalgar toward Mud Street police said adding that CheemaSingh was believed to be in the area for about 30 minutes before the incidentWith investigations continuing police warned that the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous as the weapon used has not been recoveredInvestigators have asked witnesses or anyone with video footage of the area to get in touch with them IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-wanted-in-connection-with-fathers-murder-in-canada-519163.html Mon, 12 Feb 2024 07:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-admits-stabbing-teen-wife-to-death-in-london-519018.html London Feb 11 A 24yearold Indianorigin man has pleaded guilty to stabbing his 19yearold wife to death in South London in October last yearSahil Sharma a resident of Croydon appeared in custody at Kingston Crown Court on Thursday where he admitted murdering Mehak Sharma from Gurdaspur PunjabSharma is due to be sentenced at the same court on April 26 the Metropolitan Police said in a statement released on SaturdayOn October 29 2023 Sharma dialled 999 and told the police operator that he had killed his wife at their home on Ash Tree WayUpon reaching officers found Mehak unresponsive with catastrophic knife injuries to her neck and despite the efforts of medics at the scene she was pronounced dead around 20 minutes laterA special postmortem examination conducted on October 31 2023 found that Mehak died due to a stab wound to her neckSahil Sharmas actions have devastated a family In killing his wife he has robbed her family of a loving daughter for reasons known only to himself Detective Inspector Laura Semple from Metropolitan Polices Specialist Crime Command saidWhile I am pleased that Mehak Sharmas loved ones will now be spared the experience of going through a trial nothing can bring her back to them Semple addedMehaks body was repatriated to her native Jogi Cheema village in Punjab in December 2023 for last ritesAccording to media reports Mehaks mother accused Sharma of harassing threatening and physically abusing her daughter in LondonMehak was killed in her own home the place where she should have been safest by the person who should have loved and protected her My thoughts today are with her family and loved ones Detective Inspector Semple said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-admits-stabbing-teen-wife-to-death-in-london-519018.html Sun, 11 Feb 2024 16:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-scientists-essay-published-on-nasa-earthdata-519027.html Washington Feb 11 IndianAmerican scientist Rahul Ramachandrans essay has been published on NASA EarthData websiteThe essay titled From petabytes to Insights Tackling Earth Science Scaling Problem addresses the challenge of scaling in Earth science due to increasing data volumesHe also discusses the issue of scale in science and how the integration of artificial intelligence into informatics may be a solution to this challengeThe essay was originally intended as a presentation for the prestigious American Geophysical Unions AGU annual Greg Leptoukh LectureBut as Ramachandran was unable to present at AGU due to an unforeseen medical emergency within the family he adapted the lecture into an essay formatIt is with great honour that I acknowledge my nomination to deliver the Leptoukh Lecture at AGU 2023 a recognition that holds special significance for me said Ramachandran Project Manager NASA IMPACTMy early career was marked by the privilege of working alongside Greg Leptoukh and our discussions on the value of semantic metadata added the eminent scientistIn the essay Ramachandran discusses the integration of Artificial Intelligence into informatics as a potential solution to these challengesHe reflects on his journey in informatics and emphasises the importance of managing the science data life cycle effectively in the face of evergrowing data volumes advocating for innovative approaches to support the research life cycle IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-scientists-essay-published-on-nasa-earthdata-519027.html Sun, 11 Feb 2024 16:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-truck-driver-caught-in-87-mn-drug-bust-at-us-canada-border-518585.html Toronto Feb 10 An Indian truck driver from Canada has been charged for attempting to bring about 87 million worth of cocaine into the US according to court documentsGagandeep Singh a citizen of India and resident of Canada was charged with intent to distribute controlled substances as he made his first court appearance in Detroit on WednesdayThe US Customs and Border Protection CBP officers at the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit asked Singh to pull over for an inspection at about 1145 pm on Monday the CTV News reported citing documentsThe accused ignored the officers and attempted to continue to the tolls before being stopped just before the tolls by CBP officers the criminal complaint readOfficers were alerted to the odour of controlled substances by a K9 a border police canine following which they found 13 cardboard boxes sealed with duct tape in the transport trailerA white powdery substance worth 290 kilograms fieldtested positive for cocaineDue to my training and experience I estimate the value of the seized suspected cocaine to be approximately 8700000 Jeffrey Richardson Special Agent for Homeland Security Investigations wrote in the complaintRichardson alleged that the seizure is consistent with largescale drug distribution activitiesHe told the court that scissors and duct tape matching the tape used to seal the boxes were found in the cab of the transportAccording to officers Singhs manifest indicated he was transporting agricultural equipment but the seal on the trailer was for a Canadian health and beauty care company IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-truck-driver-caught-in-87-mn-drug-bust-at-us-canada-border-518585.html Sat, 10 Feb 2024 09:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-tech-executive-dies-after-assault-outside-us-restaurant-518600.html New York Feb 10 A 41yearold Indianorigin tech executive has died in the US days after he was assaulted outside a restaurant in Washington according to media reportsVivek Taneja president and cofounder of Dynamo Technologies succumbed to his injuries on Thursday after he was assaulted by a man on February 2 outside Shoto Restaurant the WUSA9 news channel reportedTaneja was knocked to the ground by the suspect and hit his head on the pavement following a verbal altercation that got physicalAccording to the police incident report Taneja stepped in to defend a female companion who was being harassed by the suspectPolice found him at around 2 am on the pavement with lifethreatening injuries and rushed him to hospitalAn eyewitness who knew Taneja told the news channel that the fight started inside the restaurant after which both men were kicked outSeeking public help police on Friday released a surveillance video of the suspect walking in the courtyard outside the bar They are offering a reward of up to 25000 for any information leading to his arrestTaneja was a graduate of the University of Virginia and was wellloved by neighbours who left flowers on his doorstep Friday afternoon the news channel reportedThe recent incident comes amid a spate of attacks on Indian students in the US with five of them reported dead so far this yearEarlier this week an Indian student from Hyderabad Syed Mazahir Ali was left bleeding from his nose and mouth after he was attacked by robbers in ChicagoExpressing regrets over the attacks on Indian students US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti assured while speaking to the local media that America is a wonderful and safe place to study for Indians IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-tech-executive-dies-after-assault-outside-us-restaurant-518600.html Sat, 10 Feb 2024 10:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jaishankar-visits-sailani-avenue-named-after-indian-origin-soldier-in-australia-518635.html New Delhi Feb 10 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Indian community leaders as he visited Sailani Avenue a street in Australias Perth city named after Shimlaborn soldier Nain Singh SailaniSailani was one of 12 known Indian Anzacs Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who served with the Australian Imperial Army during World War IEnlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in 1916 he was killed in Belgium while on active duty in June 1917Visited Sailani Avenue in Perth Named after Nain Singh Sailani an Indianorigin soldier honored in Australia Jaishankar who is on a twoday visit to Australia to attend the 7th Indian Ocean Conference wrote on XGlad to meet some of our veterans and Indian community leaders thereThe minister earlier joined his counterpart Penny Wong to discuss IndiaAustralia ties Indian Ocean architecture and the shared interests of both countries in the IndoPacificSailani Avenue was earlier known as Nelson Avenue and was renamed in honour of the Sikh war hero in 2023 following a personal request from Prime Minister Narendra ModiSailani Avenue will act as a tangible reminder of the role Anzacs from the Indian community played in shaping our states history and paving the way for future generations Basil Zempilas Lord Mayor of Perth had saidBorn in Shimla in 1873 Sailani migrated to Australia in 1895 as a 22yearold and initially lived in the town of Geraldton about 400 kilometres north of Perth where he found work as a labourerHe was 43 when he volunteered for the Australian Imperial Force in 1916 and was allotted to the 44th Battalion as the First World War broke outHe served with his unit in France and was one of two IndianAustralian soldiers the other being soldier Sarn Singh killed in action on June 1 1917Sailani was buried at the Strand Military Cemetery in Belgium alongside other Australian soldiers and a plaque was put in Kings Park Perth in 2017 to honour his sacrificeHe received the British War Medal Victory Medal and the 191415 Star in recognition of his service IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/jaishankar-visits-sailani-avenue-named-after-indian-origin-soldier-in-australia-518635.html Sat, 10 Feb 2024 12:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-lawmaker-from-arizona-resigns-to-focus-on-congressional-run-518193.html New York Feb 9 IndianAmerican doctor Amish Shah has stepped down from the House of Representatives in the US state of Arizona to focus on his congressional campaignThe first IndianAmerican to serve in the Arizona legislature 46yearold Shah announced his run as a Democrat last year from the states 1st Congressional District which is presently held by Republican David SchweikertWith mixed emotions I resigned as your House Rep this week to pursue my Congressional campaign Serving at the State Legislature was an incredible honor offering diverse perspectives As a Congressional candidate I am eager to bring our collective values to the national stage Shah wrote in a post on XAlong with Shah an emergency physician for over 15 years at least six other candidates are seeking a Democraticrun from the district which covers parts of Scottsdale and northern PhoenixThe top issues Shah is running on include education healthcare and voting rights and according to his website he wants fair wages for workers universal healthcare and abortion accessThanking Shah for his service and leadership the Arizona House Democrats said on X Worth your time DrAmishShah bids a fond and thoughtful farewell to his House colleagues Dr Shah who is running for Congress resigned today after 5 years in office and a tremendous track record of bipartisan legislationShahs departure leaves three empty Democratic seats in the House amidst the legislatures bill season Arizonabased KGUN9 news channel reportedShah said in a release that he raised more than 530000 from individual donors in the opening quarter of his congressional campaign and over 75 per cent of these donors were from ArizonaAccording to his campaign statement he has made a name for himself with his unique brand of doortodoor campaigning having visited over 15000 households and to date he has had more bills signed into law than any other Democrat currently in the Arizona legislatureGiving back is a core value for me Because of the sacrifices of my parents who both came to this country from India to pursue a better life I was able to become a doctor and be the first IndianAmerican to serve in the Arizona legislature Shah said in an earlier statementBorn and raised in Chicago Shahs parents were engineering students who immigrated from India in the 1960sHe attended Northwestern University in Evanston and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in EconomicsHe graduated from the Northwestern University Medical School as part of the Honors Program in Medical EducationOutside of his medical practice he founded the first Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival as a philanthropic endeavour to promote healthy eatingHe was named the 2022 Womens Health Care Champion Legislator of the Year by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology for his work protecting reproductive rightsHe also received the Nursing Hero Award in 2022 from the Arizona Nurses Association and the Presidents Award for Mental Health Advocacy from the Arizona Psychiatric Society IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-lawmaker-from-arizona-resigns-to-focus-on-congressional-run-518193.html Fri, 09 Feb 2024 10:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haley-reiterates-us-will-have-a-female-president-either-her-or-kamala-harris-518278.html Washington Feb 9 Fresh out of her stinging loss in the Nevada primary a confident Nikki Haley has reiterated that the US will have a female president in 2024 either her or Vice President Kamala Harris both IndianAmericansThis is about the fact that we are going to have a female President of the US It will either be me or it will be Kamala Harris the Republican presidential aspirant told Fox News Night on ThursdayFollowing her first Republican presidential debate last year Haley had said that the thought of having Harris as president should send a chill up every American spine adding that a vote for President Joe Biden is a vote for HarrisHaley first spoke about the US having a female president during a meet and greet at a Columbia barbeque restaurant last weekWe will have a female president of the US Haley told a gathering of about 100 people at Docs BBQ which booed when she said the hard truth is its going to be me or Kamala HarrisAccording to a Morning Consult survey 33 per cent of voters said they hold a positive view of Haley while 40 per cent said they have an unfavorable view of her which equates to a net favorability rating of negative 7As for Harris 37 per cent of respondents held a favorable view while 56 had a negative view of her resulting in a net favorability rating of negative 19 a Newsweek report said citing the surveySpeaking to Fox News Haley said her rival and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump cannot win the general election moments after the US Supreme Court finished hearing arguments in a landmark legal case to decide whether the former president can be on the ballot in Novembers electionHe cant win a general election Thats a fact We lost in 2018 We lost in 2020 We lost in 2022 hes got a years worth of court cases yet Everything he touches is chaos and we continue to lose Haley told the news channelHaving voted for Trump twice and proud to serve in his administration as UN ambassador Haley asked How many more times do we have to lose before we realise that is the problemThe lone woman in the 2024 White House race said that the US cannot be a country in disarray in a world on fire and go through four more years of chaos We wont survive it she saidTrump won Nevadas Republican caucuses after being the only major candidate to participate and said that Haley continuing with the 2024 presidential run hurts the party as well as the countryAddressing reporters outside his MaraLago residence on Thursday the septuagenarian highlighted Haleys losses in Iowa New Hampshire and NevadaI dont know why she continues I dont really care if she continues but let her continue We have a big win coming up as you know in South Carolina and the polls are indicating that were through the roof on that oneHaley ran in Nevadas symbolic staterun presidential primary on Tuesday where voters chose none of these candidates over herWhile speaking to Fox News she insisted after these results that the whole thing was rigged for TrumpNevada its such a scam They were supposed to have a primary Trump rigged it so the GOP chairman whos been indicted would go and create a caucus Haley saidFollowing her Nevada loss Haley said her campaign is in full steam ahead in South Carolina and beyondTrumps Nevada victory gives him all 26 of the states delegates and the 77yearold needs to accrue 1215 delegates to formally clinch GOPs presidential nomination IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haley-reiterates-us-will-have-a-female-president-either-her-or-kamala-harris-518278.html Fri, 09 Feb 2024 13:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-indo-american-satwinder-kaur-elected-kent-city-council-president-518366.html New York Feb 9 The Kent City Council in Washington has unanimously elected IndoAmerican Satwinder Kaur as its president for a twoyear termIn her new role Kaur who is in her seventh year on the council replaces Bill Boyce who nominated her for the top position according to news outlet Kent ReporterYouve got some little shoes to fill Im sure you will do a great job and we are here to support you and make sure you are very successful Boyce said after Kaurs election in a February 6 meetingThanking Boyce for mentoring her Kaur said As I start this I know all of us have the same goal of serving the community and making sure Kent is a better place for all of usThe sevenmember council is the legislative body for the City of Kent and besides establishing policies and regulations it approves financial expenditures and the citys biennial budgetIn addition to serving as the official spokesperson for the council Kaur will work closely with the mayor to see what kind of support the council will give to issues and proposalsAccording to the Kent City Council website Kaur sees her role on the council as a great learning opportunity and a chance to bring a fresh set of eyes to the Citys problemsI want to bring new perspectives that may not have been considered before the website says quoting KaurHaving served as an intern in the Mayors Office Kaur feels she has a good understanding of resident issues and concernsKent is often overlooked but there are so many things about Kent that people dont know and we have so many great stories to tell she saysVoters first elected Kaur in 2017 and reelected her to another fouryear council term in 2021 when she ran unopposedKaur a 2004 Kentridge High School graduate narrowly lost to her opponent in the August 2022 Democratic primary race for the District 47 Senate seat IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/us-indo-american-satwinder-kaur-elected-kent-city-council-president-518366.html Fri, 09 Feb 2024 16:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/canadian-police-arrest-2-teens-after-shooting-incident-at-nijjars-aides-home-518394.html Toronto Feb 9 Two teenagers have been arrested in connection with a shooting incident that occurred last week targeting the home of a Sikh activist linked to proKhalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar a designated terrorist in India who was shot dead in Canada last yearMultiple gunshots were fired in the incident which occurred just after 120 am on February 1 at the South Surrey home of Simranjeet SinghThe Surrey unit of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police RCMP said on Thursday that their Serious Crime Unit executed a search warrant on a residence in the 7700block of 140 Street on February 6Police seized three firearms and multiple electronic devices during the search Two 16yearold males from Surrey were arrested for careless use of a firearm and discharge a firearm with intent Surrey RCMP Corporal Sarbjit K Sangha said in a statementWhile the two have been released without charges police said that investigators continue to gather information on the case to determine the motivation behind the shootingSurrey RCMP takes threats and acts of violence seriously and we work closely with victims to ensure their continued safety Sangha saidAccording to CBC news channel a car was heavily damaged in the gunfire and there were multiple bullet holes in the house itselfMoninder Singh a spokesperson for the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council identified Simranjeet as a friend of Nijjar a designated terrorist in India whose killing outside a Sikh temple in Surrey in June last year triggered a diplomatic row between New Delhi and OttawaJalandharborn Nijjar moved to Canada in 1997 where he worked as a plumber and led the outlawed militant group Khalistan Tiger ForceMoninder told CBC that community members believe Simranjeets links with Nijjar might have played a part in the shootingHe added that the firing came just days after Simranjeet helped organise a proKhalistan protest at the Indian consulate in Vancouver on January 26According to Moninder Simranjeet was in touch with the RCMP to report being followed after protests and fears for his life IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/canadian-police-arrest-2-teens-after-shooting-incident-at-nijjars-aides-home-518394.html Fri, 09 Feb 2024 17:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-purdue-student-sameer-kamaths-death-ruled-suicide-517656.html New York Feb 8 The death of a 23yearold IndianAmerican Purdue University student Sameer Kamath in Indiana has been ruled a suicide according to a release from a US county coroners officeSameer Kamath whose body was found at Crows Grove Nature Preserve in Williamsport died from a selfinflicted gunshot wound to the head Warren County Coroner Justin Brummett said citing preliminary autopsy reportsA forensic pathologists autopsy was performed on Kamaths body on February 6 afternoon in Crawfordsville IndianaThrough extensive investigation by the Warren County Coroners Office in conjunction with multiple other local and federal agencies we are now able to release a preliminary cause and manner of death the release saidKamath a US citizen according to the coroners office was a doctorate student in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Purdue University Indianabased Journal amp Courier reported citing the Coroners OfficeHe graduated from the department in August 2023 with a Masters degree in mechanical engineeringThe Warren County Sheriffs Office earlier said there is no threat to the public and that the incident is being investigated by themBrummett expressed his deepest sympathies and said that the family had been informed about Kamaths deathOur deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family and we hope they are respected during such a difficult time Brummett saidWith Kamaths death five Indian students have died in quick succession in the US since the start of this year including Shreyas Reddy Benigeri in Cincinnati and Neel Acharya in IndianaAcharya 19 was also a Purdue University student who was found dead outside a building on the campus after he went missing late last monthThe Tippecanoe County Coroners Office said no signs of trauma or significant injuries were found during the autopsy of Acharya a US citizen IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-purdue-student-sameer-kamaths-death-ruled-suicide-517656.html Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tribunal-dismisses-british-indians-claims-that-she-was-racially-targeted-at-deloitte-518026.html London Feb 8 An employment tribunal has dismissed a British Indian workers claim that she was racially targetted at Deloitte after a colleague compared her to Pocahontas a Disney character based on the life of a Native American womanShivali Patel who was hired as a senior consultant in Deloittes digital division in March 2019 made the allegations against her colleague Ben Combes a director in the company The Telegraph newspaper reported At a recent hearing in London the tribunal was told that a team drinks event was held in September 2021 at a local BrewDog pub where Combes and Patel were present Patel claimed that during a conversation Combes made an uncomfortable remark about his wife in which he said she looked like Pocahontas Patel felt there was a racial and sexual element to this remark in which he was comparing her to his wife and subsequently Pocahontas the Daily reported I am an Indian female the insinuation was that his wife looked similar to Pocahontas the insinuation was that I had similarities to his wife and that he was in some way interested in me Patel told the tribunal If his wife is a Caucasian female and Pocahontas in the Disneyfied version is tanned and somewhat looks like me the insinuation is that I look like his wife who is tanned It felt like he was implying he found me attractive it had a sexual tone to it I felt uncomfortable about said Patel who resigned from Deloitte in 2022 without citing any reason The tribunal was told that Patel was denied a promotion after feedback from colleagues stated that her attitude could wildly vary which made some staff feel like they had to walk on eggshells as one slight comment could derail a conversation In his defence Combes said he was discussing the BBC programme Who Do You Think You Are and had mentioned that his wifes family believe they are descendants of Pocahontas Clarifying that he did not comment on Patels appearance Combes said he was not insinuating any connection between his wife and colleague The employment judge dismissed Patels claims of discrimination and harassment last week and suggested she had unconsciously embroidered the discussion Our conclusions were that the conversation about Pocahontas related to genealogy and that Ms Patel had misremembered misheard andor unconsciously embroidered the discussion Employment Judge Natasha Joffe was quoted as saying in The Telegraph We could see nothing in the context or in any other behaviour of Mr Combes which supported an inference that any of these remarks were intended to be flirtatious or arose from an attraction to the claimant which would make them inherently sexual Judge Joffe added In addition Patel sued many of her colleagues over several incidents that she perceived amounted to sex discrimination race discrimination harassment and constructive unfair dismissal All the claims were dismissed by the panel In November last year a former Deloitte solicitor of Indian origin was charged over an alleged kiss at an office party in March 2022 Jassen Venkatasamy was accused of kissing a person on the lips which was noted as inappropriate unwanted and sexually motivated The solicitor in an interview with The Law Society Gazette vehemently denied any wrongdoing and vowed to contest all allegations IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/tribunal-dismisses-british-indians-claims-that-she-was-racially-targeted-at-deloitte-518026.html Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/five-indo-canadians-arrested-for-extortion-threats-targeting-south-asians-517771.html Toronto Feb 8 Canadian police have arrested three men and two women of Punjab origin and laid almost two dozen charges in connection with extortion threats targeting the South Asian business community in the Greater Toronto AreaGagan Ajit Singh 23 Anmoldeep Singh 23 Hashmeet Kaur 25 and Lymanjot Kaur 21 all from Brampton and Mississauga face a laundry list of charges which include extortion firearmsrelated offences and fraudThe fifth suspect Arundeep Thind 39 has been charged separately in connection with an alleged extortion incident on January 26 the Peel Regional Police PRP said in a statement released on WednesdayGagan Ajit and Anmoldeep were held for bail hearings and attended the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton police saidWhile Iymanjot and Hashmeet will attend the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton at a later date Thind was held for a bail hearing and attended the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton the PRP release saidWe understand the impact these incidents have caused to the victims and their families and see how deeply these incidents are being felt throughout our community PRP chief Nishan Duraiappah said in a statementDuraiappah who also addressed a news conference on Wednesday announcing the arrests added that police agencies in India as well as Canada have been contacted as theres a complex ecosystem of people involved in these crimesThe PRP said its 23member Extortion Investigative Task Force EITF with the support of the Ontario Provincial Police OPP executed a search warrant resulting in the arrests concerning incidents that occurred throughout the GTA since December 2023These incidents included mischief to property threats and firearmsrelated offences a PRP statement readWe took immediate steps in mobilising the Extortion Investigative Task Force With the help of our community we have made arrests and will continue to hold accountable those responsible Duraiappah said in a statementEITFs lead superintendent Shelley Thompson said 29 cases are currently under investigation and of these nine incidents have involved shootings at local businesses with multiple bullets being fired the CP24 news channel reportedThompson said the businesses being targeted are South Asianowned and include restaurants bakeries trucking and transport companies independent used car dealerships and jewellery storesSpeaking about their modus operandi Thompson said the victims are contacted via phone or social media and threatened to pay in cash or transfer money either in Indian or Canadian currencyPolice believe that a lot of these incidents are underreported due to victims fear of the suspectsWe believe that there could be more residents and businesses who may have been contacted I urge those business owners and community members to come forward to speak with our Extortion Investigative Task Force Duraiappah saidRaising concerns over an alarming escalation of extortion threats against Indian and South Asian business communities mayors in the Canadian towns of Brampton and Surrey urged the government last month to take swift action to root out the menaceBrown and Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke expressed deep concern over a growing number of extortion attempts and violent acts including shootings in a letter addressed to Canadas Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc in January IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/five-indo-canadians-arrested-for-extortion-threats-targeting-south-asians-517771.html Thu, 08 Feb 2024 12:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/in-a-first-indian-origin-australian-senator-takes-oath-on-bhagavad-gita-517809.html Melbourne Feb 8 Indianorigin barrister Varun Ghosh has become the firstever Australian Senator to take the oath of office on the Bhagavad GitaThe 38yearold took his position in the Australian Senate with the Labour Party officially confirming him as their pick to represent Western Australia WA replacing present senator Patrick DodsonWelcoming Ghosh in his new role Penny Wong Minister for Foreign Affairs and South Australia senator wrote on X Senator Ghosh is the first ever Australian Senator sworn in on the Bhagavad Gita I have often said when youre the first at something youve got to make sure youre not the lastPrime Minister Anthony Albanese said Ghosh a barrister at Francis Burt Chambers will be a great voice for WAI was so pleased to support your candidacy and I say this as well youve got big shoes to fill Albanese was quoted as saying in The Sydney Morning HeraldThe PM earlier wrote on X Welcome Varun Ghosh our newest Senator from Western Australia Fantastic to have you on the teamGhosh is the second Indianorigin Australian in the Senate after Dave Sharma who was sworn in as a senator for New South Wales NSW in DecemberGhosh who joined the Labor party in Perth at the age of 17 after his parents moved from India in the 1980s said his preselection was an honour he wont take for grantedI have had the privilege of a good education and believe strongly that highquality education and training should be available to everyone he said in a statement issued earlierAt the 2019 federal election Ghosh was placed in fifth position on the Australian Labour Partys Senate ticket in Western Australia but was not electedHe received degrees in Arts and Law from the University of Western Australia and was a Commonwealth Scholar in Law at the University of CambridgeHe previously worked as a finance attorney in New York and as a consultant for the World Bank in Washington DCGhosh returned to Australia in 2015 as a senior associate with King amp Wood Mallesons representing banks resource companies and construction companies in dispute resolution IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/in-a-first-indian-origin-australian-senator-takes-oath-on-bhagavad-gita-517809.html Thu, 08 Feb 2024 13:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-fined-for-demanding-cash-from-environment-agency-officers-517388.html London Feb 7 An Indianorigin owner of a waste treatment plant in East London has been fined for barring environment inspectors from entering the site twice unless they paid her thousands of pounds in bogus feesGurjit Athwal 51 director of Keep Green at Atcost Road in Barking was ordered to pay a fine of 3000 pounds another 3000 in cost and a victim surcharge of 1200 poundsThe Barkingside magistrates court heard that between February 24 and April 18 2023 Athwal intentionally obstructed Environment Agency officers in the exercise or performance of their powers or dutiesThe court was told that one of the officers called Keep Green in February 2023 as the Environment Agency was concerned about the amount of waste stored at the site since the last visual check six months beforeThe officer wanted to check operations were within the conditions of Keep Greens environmental permit to treat household commercial and industrial waste and that pollutioncontrol measures were in place a government release stated on WednesdayIt said Athwal stopped the officer from entering the premises and demanded 500 pounds and insurance documents to let her inThe officer left having explained to Athwal why she was there but the 51yearold wouldnt listen or look at the officers authorisation card which listed her powers as an Environment Agency member of staffOne of the most direct ways the Environment Agency can ensure companies like Keep Green operate without harming the environment is through inspecting waste sites and other commercial operations Barry Russell environment manager for the Environment Agency in north and east London saidAthwal intentionally obstructed Environment Agency staff from carrying out their work to keep communities safe he addedAthwal later made several unsubstantiated claims about the officer in writing saying she abused her position adding the Environment Agency official had lied about being denied access to the siteWhen asked to followup the allegations in detail by the Environment Agency she failed to do so according to the releaseThe officer went back to Atcost Road with a colleague two months later but Athwal again denied them entry to her business and demanded moneyThis time Athwal made notes and did look at the officers cards but still told them they werent coming in claiming to video them on her mobile phoneFollowing the second visit Athwal invoiced the Environment Agency for 1500 pounds for an inspection fee and what she called written descriptionsThe Environment Agency has the power of entry to visit and inspect any location that holds a permit to operate and does not pay any operator whose site it regulatesIn July last year five months after Athwal halted the first inspection and three months after she did it again the Environment Agency summoned her to an interviewAthwal again demanded hundreds of pounds to attend and even wanted her travel costs paid The interview never took placeShe was sentenced in absentia on January 30 and was charged with breaching regulation 342 of the Environmental Permitting England and Wales Regulations 2016According to the law the Environment Agency has a duty to make appropriate periodic inspections of regulated facilities to ensure that the operator is complying with their permit IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-fined-for-demanding-cash-from-environment-agency-officers-517388.html Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indo-canadian-sentenced-for-carrying-loaded-ghost-gun-in-mall-517469.html Toronto Feb 7 A 23yearold IndoCanadian has been sentenced to more than two years in prison for carrying a loaded ghost gun at a mall in the countrys British Columbia provinceArunjit Singh Virk who was arrested in March 2021 was also prohibited from possessing any firearm restricted weapon or ammunition for 10 years Ontariobased CTV News reported on TuesdayIn a presentence report presented to the British Columbia Provincial Court recently Virk acknowledged the harm he could have caused by bringing a loaded gun into a busy mallThe court heard that a police officer was patrolling the Metrotown shopping centre in Burnaby when he spotted Virk engaged in a suspected drug deal on March 28 2021When Virk saw the officer Virk left the mall and got into a taxi but the police quickly intercepted the cab and arrested himWhen police searched his satchel they found a loaded Polymer 80 model PF940CL semiautomatic handgun Judge Reginald P Harris said adding that police could not trace its origins as it was a ghost gunGhost guns are unregulated do not have a serial number and untraceable firearms that anyone can buy and build without a background checkThe court was told that Virk who recently married was born and raised in British Columbias Lower Mainland and went through a traumatic experience at the age of 15 when his uncle diedHe started using oxycodone marijuana and alcohol after which his parents took him to India for substance abuse treatment and he completed another recovery program back home in 2022 before quitting drugs again last yearAt the time of his sentencing Virk working as an office assistant at the same business where his mother works admitted that he makes poor decisions when using substancesIn a psychological assessment presented to the court a doctor diagnosed Virk with an unspecified mood disorder traits of an antisocial personality disorder and a polysubstance use disorderThe doctor did not conclude or suggest that Virks offence was linked to his mental health or drug use but the latter told him that he possessed the gun for protectionWhile the maximum penalty for possessing a loaded handgun is 10 years in prison prosecutors sought a threeyear prison term in the case citing denunciation and deterrence of the weapons offence as the primary sentencing objectives the CTV News reportedTurning to Virks moral culpability and I recognise he has experienced some struggles there is insufficient evidence to conclude that his mental health or drug use caused or contributed to his offence Judge Harris wrote in his sentenceIt is aggravating that Mr Virk chose to possess a firearm in a highly public area namely the exterior and interior of a mall he added It is aggravating that the firearm was loaded and without a serial number IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indo-canadian-sentenced-for-carrying-loaded-ghost-gun-in-mall-517469.html Wed, 07 Feb 2024 13:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/mahant-swami-maharaj-reaches-abu-dhabi-for-inauguration-of-uaes-first-hindu-temple-517175.html New Delhi Feb 6 Mahant Swami Maharaj the spiritual guru of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha reached Abu Dhabi on Tuesday for the grand inauguration of the first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates UAEThe spiritual leader will preside over the historic inauguration of the first Hindu temple in the Gulf nation Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the temple on February 14 days after the Pran Pratishtha of the grand Ram Temple in AyodhyaMahant Swami Maharaj was received as a state guest by UAE Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al NahyanExtending warm welcome to the spiritual guru the minister said Welcome to the UAE Our nation is blessed with your presence We are touched by your kindness and we feel your prayersAs the BAPS spiritual guru arrived in Abu Dhabi a large number of Swaminarayan Sanstha members and devotees also turned up to greet himPrime Minister Modi is set to inaugurate the temple on February 14 in the presence of saints swamis and thousands of devotees A wave of religious fervour and festive atmosphere has already set in with thousands of devotees visiting the large complexModi is also set to address the Indian diaspora at the grandiose Sheikh Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi The event titled Ahlan Modi is likely to see the presence of more than 50000 people Ahlan Modi which means Hello Modi is being billed as the largest community reception to Prime Minister on foreign soilNotably the BAPS Mandir is the first Hindu temple constructed in the Middle East Ever since the construction work began in 2019 it drew attention and interest of the Hindu community from across the worldSituated in the Abu Mureikhah area the majestic complex will reflect the spirit of Indian culture and will also be a testament to the growing friendship between India and the UAEThe foundation stone for the temple was laid on April 20 2019 Lots of volunteers from the Hindu community participated in the construction of the stateofthe art complex made using white marble and limestone onlyFor the unversed the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan had donated 135 acres of land in 2015 for the construction of the temple IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/mahant-swami-maharaj-reaches-abu-dhabi-for-inauguration-of-uaes-first-hindu-temple-517175.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/singapore-police-to-probe-racism-in-ranks-after-indian-origin-officers-death-minister-517197.html Singapore Feb 6 The Singapore Police Force SPF will investigate cases involving racial slurs or casual racism among its officers as possible misconduct and a disciplinary breach following the death of an Indianorigin officer who claimed to have been bullied by seniors a minister announced on Tuesday Making a statement in the Parliament Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam said that the SPF has reviewed its policy on such cases Uvaraja Gopal 35 died in hospital in July last year after he was found lying motionless at the foot of a residential block in Yishun He had served with the police for more than 10 years and was last an officer with the Ang Mo Kio Police Division Channel News Asia reported In a Facebook post that was later deleted Uvaraja said he had been bullied by his superiors and subjected to ethnic slurs by his teammates He also claimed that some officers misconduct was covered up his performance appraisals were unfair to him and he was ostracised at work He alleged that in 2019 his superior shredded his leave form and uploaded a video of this action in a group chat After the allegations Shanmugam asked police to investigate claims saying We will get to the bottom of it And be accountable We have a clear policy of nondiscrimination All officers are entitled to be treated fairly SPF as an organisation is committed to that principle We will investigate the facts Police had said they found the allegations of racial discrimination made by Uvaraja in 2015 unsubstantiated Shanmugam told the House on Tuesday that the AGC AttorneyGenerals Chambers has reviewed the findings and determined that no further actions were needed The investigations found some of Uvarajas allegations were true and some officers involved were disciplined or punished at the time But other allegations were false the minister said He added that the police will also continue to engage officers shape culture and engage in frank discussion on such issues around racial slurs or casual racism through platforms like the annual ethics seminar Addressing Uvarajas claims that he was unfairly held back in his career and given unfair performance appraisals Shanmugam said These are untrue As for his performance appraisals Shanmugam said that investigations found his performance grades were a fair assessment of his work contributions He was also awarded the Covid19 Resilience Medal IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/singapore-police-to-probe-racism-in-ranks-after-indian-origin-officers-death-minister-517197.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-charged-with-stealing-donations-from-temples-in-canada-516956.html Toronto Feb 6 A 41yearold IndoCanadian man has been charged with breaking into temples and stealing cash from donation boxesThe accused has been identified as Jagdish Pandher from Brampton cityAccording to police multiple breakandenter incidents were reported in Peel Region comprising Brampton Mississauga and Caledon between March and August 2023Surveillance footage from three places of worship showed the suspect breaking into temples and stealing cash from donation boxesPandher was also caught on surveillance cameras breaking into other commercial locations and stealing moneyFollowing a lengthy and coordinated investigation by police agencies across the Greater Toronto Area Pandher of Brampton has been identified as the suspectPandher who is already in custody for similar offences has been charged with five more counts of breaking in temples and businesses and stealing money IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-charged-with-stealing-donations-from-temples-in-canada-516956.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 11:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-presidential-candidate-haley-seeks-secret-service-protection-report-516982.html Washington Feb 6 IndianAmerican Republican Presidential candidate Nikki Haley the lone challenger left against former US President Donald Trump has formally requested Secret Service protection citing multiple issues the BBC reportedThe former South Carolina Governor and United Nations ambassador discussed the request for protection in an interview with The Wall Street Journal on MondayWeve had multiple issues Its not going to stop me from doing what I need to do she said after a campaign event in Aiken South CarolinaWhen you do something like this you get threats Its just the reality Thats not going to deter me Does it mean we have to put a few more bodies around this Yes thats fine she told the paperHaley who has been urged by the former President Trump and his backers to exit the race and unify the party against Democrat Joe Biden currently uses personal security while campaigningIn addition protesters have shown up at her campaign events to slam her support for Israel and UkraineAt the end of the day were going to go out there and touch every hand were going to answer every question were going to make sure that we are there and doing everything that we need to she saidThe White House hopeful has been a target of swatting attempts with the recent one on New Years Day when a hoax call was made to law enforcement agencies saying Haleys daughter had been shot and was lying in a pool of bloodDays before her Kiawah Island home was also swatted when a man called the police and claimed to have shot a womanWhile Haley was not at home her parents were there along with a caregiver Calling it an awful situation she had said It put the law enforcement officers in danger it put my family in danger Thats what happens when you run for presidentSecret Service protection is granted to major candidates under federal law usually when they look certain to become their partys nominee the BBC saidA call on providing Haley with Secret Service support would be taken by the US Secretary of Homeland Security who would first confer with a Joint Congressional CommitteeAs former President Trump who enjoys a large doubledigit lead over Haley gets Secret Service protection for lifeDespite lagging behind her former boss in the two primaries held so far Haley raised a massive 165 million in January aloneThe next major primary is scheduled to be held in her home state of South Carolina later this month IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-presidential-candidate-haley-seeks-secret-service-protection-report-516982.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 12:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/student-from-hyderabad-in-chicago-injured-in-attack-by-robbers-517293.html Hyderabad Feb 6 A student from Hyderabad was injured when four armed robbers attacked him in Chicago as per his family hereSyed Mazahir Ali pursuing Masters in information technology from Indiana Wesleyan University was attacked and robbed by three men at Campbell Avenue on Sunday morning local timeAlis wife Syeda Ruquiya Fatima Razvi who lives in Langar Houz area in Hyderabad on Tuesday appealed to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to help in ensuring best medical treatment to himIn a letter to the minister she requested that arrangements be made for her travel to the US along with their three minor children She said she received a call from her husbands friend that he was attacked and robbed at Campbell Avenue when he was near his apartment He was taken to a hospitalFatima said she got in touch with her husband after some time but he was in shock and was unable to talk to her She wrote that she was worried about the safety of her husbandVideo footage of the incident shows Ali walking on a road and three masked men chasing him Another video clip shows the profusely bleeding victim narrating the incidentWith blood oozing out from his forehead nose and mouth he said he was returning home with a food packet when four men chased and attacked him I slipped near my house and they punched and kicked me and snatched my mobile phone he said pleading for helpThe incident comes in the wake of four Indianorigin students being found dead in the US during the last one month IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/student-from-hyderabad-in-chicago-injured-in-attack-by-robbers-517293.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 22:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/man-accused-of-stabbing-indian-to-death-appears-in-nz-court-517088.html Wellington Feb 6 A 33yearold technician charged with stabbing a 28yearold Indian to death appeared before a New Zealand court and has been remanded in custody without a pleaAppearing before Justice of the Peace Helen Meiklejohn at Dunedin District Court on Monday the man who was arrested on the same day was granted interim name suppressionHe was ordered to appear at the High Court on February 27 in connection with the murder of Gurjit Singh the New Zealand Herald newspaper reportedPolice said they were called to a Dunedin address on January 29 after Gurjits body was found outside his home covered in blood and glassHailing from Pamal village in Ludhiana newlymarried Gurjit was working as a technician with the telecom company Chorus and was waiting for his wife to join him at the Hillary Street house that he had been rentingDetective Senior Sergeant Kallum Croudis confirmed pathological findings indicate Gurjit died as a result of multiple stab wounds inflicted by a sharp instrument the Herald reportedCroudis confirmed a homicide investigation was continuing into his deathIn a statement released on Monday the New Zealand Police said that a team of 25 Dunedinbased investigators and Christchurchbased ESR scientists were tasked with investigating his deathIn addition they are assessing CCTV footage provided by the public and interviewing Gurjits family friends and colleagues to try to establish his movements before his deathSinghs father is in Dunedin today February 5 and is being supported by Police and the Punjabi community Our thoughts remain with the family at this extremely difficult time the police statement saidA large team of investigators have worked extensively on this case but there is still work to doThe Otago Punjabi Foundation Trust has set up a Givealittle page to support the family that lost its only sonNarindervir Singh a Foundation member and a friend told the Herald that Gurjit never had an argument or any ongoing issues with anyoneHe said that about two weeks ago Gurjit suspected somebody had tried to break into his house and had purchased security cameras but did not get a chance to install them IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/man-accused-of-stabbing-indian-to-death-appears-in-nz-court-517088.html Tue, 06 Feb 2024 15:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-singer-fined-for-molesting-woman-in-singapore-516639.html Singapore Feb 5 A 42yearold Indianorigin singer in Singapore has been fined SG 3000 for molesting a female production crew member in a drunken stupor in 2022Sivabalan Siva Prasad Menon who had consumed between 10 and 15 cups of whisky on the day of the incident pleaded guilty on Monday to one count of molestationTwo other charges including one more molestation charge were considered during sentencing The Straits Times newspaper reportedOn the day of the incident the victim reported at the Mediacorp Campus in Stars Avenue at around 11 am to work on the production of a show that had hired Menon as a singer and dancerDeputy Public Prosecutor Grace Teo told the court that Menon who was also present at the venue had downed up to 15 cups of whisky between 3 pm and 1130 pmThe victim and a friend were waiting for the lift after the show ended and when it arrived Menon walked out of the lift and grabbed the victim by her jaw kissing her cheekThe victim while trying to pull away told Menon that she did not like being treated in such a manner following which her friend intervened and asked Menon to leaveTeo told the court that after Menon left the vicinity the victim cried and hyperventilated because she felt stressed by the incident She alerted the police later that dayMenons lawyer told the court that the incident was Menons first brush with the law and that the contact between the two was fleeting lasting less than three secondsFor molestation an offender can be jailed for up to three years fined caned or receive any combination of such punishments IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-singer-fined-for-molesting-woman-in-singapore-516639.html Mon, 05 Feb 2024 15:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/singapore-parliament-waiting-for-outcome-of-indian-origin-ministers-court-case-516689.html Singapore Feb 5 Before deciding upon a Committee of Inquiry COI in Indianorigin minister S Iswarans case the Singapore Parliament will wait for the court case against him to conclude Leader of the House Indranee Rajah said on Monday Iswaran stepped down as Transport Minister last month after facing 27 charges of offences in a corruption probe which saw him getting arrested in July 2023 and later released on bailResponding to an MPs question in the parliament Rajah said The purpose of a COI is to investigate something with a view of finding out how it happened The Straits Times reportedIn this case the CPIB Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau has investigated the matter Based on the investigations the Attorney Generals Chambers took the view that there is a basis for criminal charges to be brought against IswaranDetermination of criminal offences is a matter for the court which is currently dealing with the case We should wait for the court proceedings to conclude before deciding if anything else needs to be done Rajah saidShe added that everyone who is alleged to have committed wrongdoing including MPs should be given due processArriving at the State Courts on January 18 Iswaran pleaded not guilty to 27 charges two counts of corruption 24 counts of obtaining items from someone he had business dealings with as a public servant and one of obstructing the course of justiceAccording to court documents most of the offences Iswaran faces involve billionaire hotelier Ong Beng Seng who brought Formula One to Singapore in 2008 The chargesheet states that Iswaran received valuable things worth more than S384000 US285000 from Ong between 2015 and 2022These ranged from tickets to shows private plane rides hotel stays football matches and various editions of the Singapore F1 Grand PrixIn his statement to the media on January 18 Iswaran said he would return his reduced monthly salary of SG8500 a month and the MP allowance he had received since the start of investigations in July 2023My family and I have decided to return the monies because we cannot in all good conscience benefit from them when I was unable on account of the investigations to discharge my duties as a minister and Member of Parliament he said in a letter to Prime Minister Lee Hsien LoongIswarans pretrial conference is scheduled for March 1 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/singapore-parliament-waiting-for-outcome-of-indian-origin-ministers-court-case-516689.html Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/fresh-trouble-for-sunak-as-minister-accused-of-giving-infosys-vip-access-report-516571.html London Feb 5 Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing a fresh conflict of interest row after a Conservative minister on a trade mission to India last April said he would be happy to help IT firm Infosys owned by his wifes family grow in the UKAccording to a Daily Mirror investigation Trade Minister Dominic Johnson said he was keen to see a bigger Infosys presence in the UK and would be happy to do what he could to facilitate thatThe development comes as the Bengalurubased firm founded by Akshata Murtys father vies for contracts in the UK worth 750 million pounds and plans to increase its workforce in its secondbiggest market by 20 per cent to 6000Valued at more than 500 million pounds much of the enormous wealth accumulated by Sunak and his wife who has a 091 per cent stake and reaped dividends of 13 million pounds in the last financial year comes from this IT firmAt a meeting at the companys office details of which were obtained by The Mirror by using Freedom of Information requests Johnson steered Infosys on how to obtain UK visas for its staffJohnson outlined the mobility schemes available which Infosys could take advantage of particularly the High Potential Individual visa scheme which allows holders to stay in the UK for two yearsThe April 2023 meeting also discussed how the IndiaUK Free Trade Agreement FTA would benefit InfosysReassure that the FTA will further create new opportunities and investorfriendly policies to support business growth one of the points mentioned in the briefing notes for Johnson readAhead of Sunaks visit to India for the G20 summit in September last year trade experts and parliamentarians raised concerns alleging that Infosys would financially benefit from the postBrexit trade dealInfosys which is one of the biggest investors in Johnsons Somerset Capital was reassured by the minister who said We value the relationship with Infosys and will continue to engage at a Ministerial level when requested of usCalling the uncovered documents damning the opposition Labour said the government had serious questions to answer about giving VIP access to a business so personally close to Sunak and Liberal Democrats demanded full transparencyThis government seems intent on wrecking the publics trust in politics The public has a right to know what the Government is up to We must have full transparency of all government dealings with a firm so closely linked to the Prime Minister Liberal Democrat Deputy leader Daisy Cooper told The MirrorThe Mirror reported that Infosys has received at least 66 million pounds in public contracts since 2015 and more than 46 million pounds worth of these have been awarded since Sunak became Chancellor in 2020Infosys has offices in London Edinburgh and Nottingham and two out of the tech firms top 10 executives are UKbased IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/fresh-trouble-for-sunak-as-minister-accused-of-giving-infosys-vip-access-report-516571.html Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/stalin-requests-support-from-tamil-diaspora-in-spain-for-states-development-516851.html Chennai Feb 5 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin who is on an eightday investment garnering visit to Spain has requested the Tamil diaspora in the country to support the state in its development an official statement said on MondayThe Chief Ministers office in the statement said that this was his first visit to Spain and added that the welfare board for nonresident Tamils welfare constituted by the DMK government would assist them if they needed Stalin said that his government had invited Tamil diaspora across the world and had spoken to them about their grievances and the support the state government can extend to them He stressed that the state government would support the Tamil diaspora in any manner they wanted He also spoke about the recent Global Investor Meet GIM organized in Chennai and said that several serious investment proposals have been signed during the meet Industries Minister TRB Rajaa and senior officials were also present on the occasion IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/stalin-requests-support-from-tamil-diaspora-in-spain-for-states-development-516851.html Mon, 05 Feb 2024 22:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-pm-speaks-on-racism-says-parents-wanted-him-to-speak-without-an-accent-to-fit-in-516171.html London Feb 4 UKs first Indianorigin PM Rishi Sunak shared his experiences of facing racism as a child saying his parents sent him for extra drama lessons so that he could speak properly without an accent to fit into societyIn an interview with Anushka Asthana of ITV News Sunak recalled the pain of hearing slurs directed at his younger siblings adding that racism stings and hurts in a way that other things dont The Guardian reportedYou are conscious of being different Its hard not to be right and obviously I experienced racism as a kid he told Asthana who detailed her encounter with the Prime Minister in The TimesThe PM also spoke about the sting of racism in July last year when he made a special appearance at the England versus Australia Ashes Test match at Lords Cricket Ground in LondonBorn in Southampton in a Hindu Punjabi family that had migrated from East Africa the 43yearold leader said his parents his mother in particular were keen for him and his siblings to fit in and not for it to be in any way shape or form a barrierOne of the things my mum was obsessed with was that we didnt speak with accents and we would speak properly he said So she was keen for us to try to do some extra dramaCalling any form of racism simply unacceptable he also mentioned Britains reputation among global leaders as a model for racial harmony and equalityAddressing his first Conservative Party conference as party leader in Manchester in October 2023 Sunak using his example as proof said that the UK is not a racist country and that his skin colour is not a big deal in the countrySunak admitted while speaking to Asthana that he never expected to see an individual from the ethnic minority community becoming Britains prime minister one day because you didnt have role models like that hadnt happened yetFrom lighting diyas on the steps of 10 Downing Street on Diwali to praying at Hindu temples the Southamptonborn leader has shown that he is proud of his Indian roots and Hindu faith which he says guides him in every aspect of his lifeAttending a Ram Katha ceremony at the University of Cambridges Jesus College last year Sunak said Being Prime Minister is a great honour but it is not an easy job There are difficult decisions to make hard choices to confront and our faith gives me courage strength and resilience to do the best that I can for our country IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-pm-speaks-on-racism-says-parents-wanted-him-to-speak-without-an-accent-to-fit-in-516171.html Sun, 04 Feb 2024 10:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uks-labour-party-launches-measures-to-reconnect-with-british-indian-voters-515885.html London Feb 3 From organising trips to India to hiring community volunteers the UKs main opposition Labour Party has announced a series of measures to win back the support of the British Indian community which has been on the wane in recent yearsNearly twothirds of British Indians who form the secondlargest immigrant group in the UK and the largest minorityethnic group supported Labour for years The Guardian reportedBut the numbers fell sharply with a UKbased thinktank showing that in 2019 only 30 per cent voted for the Keir Starmerled party in stark contrast to 61 per cent in 2010Weve taken Indian voters for granted for years but its becoming increasingly obvious they are going elsewhere and we need to do something about that a party official told the paperTo reengage with the community the party has rolled out new initiatives which include hiring community outreach volunteers revamping the Labour Friends of India group and organising a trip to India for two of its senior shadow ministersAs a canvassing umbrella initiative focused on event organisation and social media dissemination were looking to serve the widest group of stakeholders to ensure a Labour victory Krish Raval the groups chair told The GuardianThe group has hired two volunteers to brief Labour parliamentary candidates on issues of importance to India and on Sunday shadow ministers David Lammy and Jonathan Reynolds will travel to Delhi and Mumbai on a fiveday tripIn November last year Sir Keir Starmer joined top members of the British Indian community including Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami to celebrate Diwali where he expressed his gratitude to the Hindu Sikh and Jain communities in the UKIn June 2023 he emphasised the importance of modern India and said that a strategic partnership with India will be key to a future Labour governmentCiting experts The Guardian said that a shift in the British Indian stance has come about partly for socioeconomic reasons and partly for religious onesAs they have become richer in recent years survey data shows their attitudes have become more conservativeIn addition the party had an uncomfortable relationship with India after the party under Jeremy Corbyns leadership unanimously passed a motion on Kashmir at the 2019 Labour conferenceIn 2019 BJP activists actively campaigned for the Conservatives in more than 40 seats across the UK and now with Rishi Sunak as Britains first Hindu Prime Minister the sailing is likely to be rough for the opposition IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uks-labour-party-launches-measures-to-reconnect-with-british-indian-voters-515885.html Sat, 03 Feb 2024 04:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/from-varun-chheda-to-neel-acharya-the-purdue-deaths-that-shook-indians-515890.html New Delhi Feb 3 The recent death of Purdue University student Neel Acharya has put the focus back on the security and safety of Indian and Indianorigin students at and around the campus that witnessed a total of four deaths from the community between 20222024Placed at No 33 in the US and No 86 worldwide in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings the prestigious university is a dream of almost every student growing up in India as well as abroadFor some the dream came true with a heavy priceA KNIFE ENDS A 20YEAROLD LIFEOn October 5 2022 20yearold data science student Varun Manish Chheda was gaming and chatting online with friends when he was stabbed to death inside his firstfloor McCutcheon Hall room on Purdue Universitys West Lafayette campusAccording to police Varuns death was Purdues first oncampus homicide in more than eight yearsVarun whose grandfather migrated to the US in 1964 from Gujarat was allegedly stabbed by his roommate multiple times in the head and neck with a folding knife an incident that the police called senseless and unprovokedJi Min Sha a 22yearold cybersecurity major from South Korea was charged with Varuns murder and was found fit to stand trial in September last year He could face between 45 and 65 years in prison if found guilty of murderMaking his first court appearance before the Tippecanoe County Magistrate just after the murder on October 14 Sha claimed he was blackmailed when asked why he killed Varun but did not elaborate furtherHe also said he was very sorry when asked if he had anything to tell the victims familyRemembered as a humble person and bright student by faculty and friends Varun was just 10 days away from celebrating his 21st birthdayJust a few hours before the murder his mother sent him her usual evening text message Eat well sleep well Finish your homework and Varun responded by saying Yes Mom Ive done it allIn his last text to his mother at 1145 pm Varun wrote Goodnight mamaA TWIN TRAGEDYJust a year and a week after Varuns death 25yearold Tanya Roy and her twin sister Rayna Roy died after falling from their seventhfloor apartment around the Purdue campus on October 11 2023While there was no record of Rayna as a Purdue student Tanya graduated with a bachelor of science degree in environmental and ecological engineering in 2020 from the university and was a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship in 2019The twin sisters were found dead in an alley between Campus Edge Apartments and Westwood Apartments West Lafayette according to The Purdue Exponent the universitys studentrun newspaperFirst responders tried to provide lifesaving help but the girls died at the scene the West Lafayette Police Department Lt Jon Eager said adding that the girls parents were visiting from New York State and were anticipating helping the twins move backAccording to the forensic autopsy the sisters died by suicide as a result of multiple bluntforce injuriesFROM MISSING TO BEING MISSEDOn January 28 2024 officials were called around 1130 am to 500 Allison Road in West Lafayette for a possible body which turned out to be that of 19yearold Neel AcharyaNeel went missing a day before his death and was last seen by the Uber driver who dropped him off at the University His body was found outside Maurice J Zucrow Laboratories on the Purdue campusHe was a double major in computer science and data science at the John Martinson Honors College where the slain IndianAmerican Varun was also a student majoring in data scienceAccording to his LinkedIn profile Neel finished his schooling at St Marys School in Pune before joining Purdue in 2022He also participated in and won the Cozmo Clench competition at Techfest 201819 hosted by the Indian Institute of Technology IITAt Purdue Neel worked as an Undergraduate Research Assistant and was adept at C Programming Language Artificial Intelligence AI Research Skills Python Programming Language and Generative ArtHOW SAFE ARE INDIANS AT PURDUEAccording to the university website Purdue is currently home to more than 2782 Indian students representing 219 per cent of their international student body up from 182 per cent two years agoThe university has 876 undergraduates 1906 graduates and 73 online students from India alone and has offered meritbased scholarships to students from the country through the Indian Emerging Scholar fundThe university also has Indian Graduate Students at Purdue IGRASP a campus cultural organization that aims to build a sense of community away from home for Indian graduate students at the UniversityFollowing Varuns death Purdues president assured that the safety and security of students is the single highest priority on the campusPurdue is an extraordinarily safe place on any given day and compared with cities of Purdues population approximately 60000 in all we experience a tiny fraction of violent and property crime that occurs elsewhereA death on our campus and among our Purdue family affects each of us deeply IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/from-varun-chheda-to-neel-acharya-the-purdue-deaths-that-shook-indians-515890.html Sat, 03 Feb 2024 07:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-barrister-varun-ghosh-appointed-to-australian-senate-515905.html Melbourne Feb 3 Indianorigin barrister Varun Ghosh will take his position in the Australian Senate next week with the Labour Party officially confirming him as their pick to represent Western Australia WAA joint sitting of WA Parliament on Thursday selected the 38yearold Ghosh a barrister at Francis Burt Chambers to replace present senator Patrick DodsonThe Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council have chosen Senator Varun Ghosh to represent Western Australia in the Senate of the Federal Parliament the Legislative Assembly of Western Australia announced on XGhosh joined the Labor party in Perth at the age of 17 after his parents moved from India in the 1980s and began working as neurologists news website WAToday reportedHe said his preselection was an honour he wont take for granted I have had the privilege of a good education and believe strongly that highquality education and training should be available to everyone he said in a statementVarun has spent the last few years working as a barrister with both WA business amp on the international stage with the World Bank I look forward to working with him as part of ourwalabor Senate team in CBR Canberra Minister for Veterans Affairs Matt Keogh wrote on X platformAt the 2019 federal election Ghosh was placed in fifth position on the Australian Labour Partys Senate ticket in Western Australia but was not electedHe received degrees in Arts and Law from the University of Western Australia and was a Commonwealth Scholar in Law at the University of CambridgeHe previously worked as a finance attorney in New York and as a consultant for the World Bank in Washington DCGhosh returned to Australia in 2015 as a senior associate with King amp Wood Mallesons representing banks resource companies and construction companies in dispute resolution IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-barrister-varun-ghosh-appointed-to-australian-senate-515905.html Sat, 03 Feb 2024 10:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indians-pakistanis-among-15-arrested-in-cyprus-sham-marriage-scam-515716.html New Delhi Feb 2 A criminal network facilitating illegal migration into the European Union via sham marriages has been busted in Cyprus leading to the arrest of 15 individuals including Indians and Pakistanis European police saidInvestigations by Europols Operational Task Force OTF found that the network was also involved in human trafficking and money laundering activities as well as forcing victims into bogus marriages for immigration purposesThe suspects allegedly recruited Latvian and Portuguese nationals and facilitated their journeys to Cyprus where the women entered into arranged marriages with thirdcountry nationals the European police agency said in a statement Thereafter these suspects mainly Indian Pakistani and Portuguese citizens arranged all the logistics including the purchase of flight tickets and the acquisition of passports and other required documents The arrested individuals are being held by the Larnaca district court in Cyprus until February 7 A total of 133 marriages of convenience were conducted between Portuguese and Latvian women and Indian and Pakistani men investigations by the OTF found The sham marriage ceremonies took place in town halls around Aradippou Livadia and Nicosia enabling the nonEU nationals to obtain residence permits from third countries which they then used to travel to other European countries The two main organisers were arrested in Latvia and Portugal and 13 others were arrested in Cyprus Europol said adding that four of them were highvalue targets IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indians-pakistanis-among-15-arrested-in-cyprus-sham-marriage-scam-515716.html Fri, 02 Feb 2024 18:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-british-indian-musicians-in-royal-philharmonic-society-awards-shortlist-515517.html London Feb 2 A British Indian conductor and a sitarist are among 19 individual performers and composers shortlisted for this years prestigious Royal Philharmonic Society RPS Awards celebrating classical music and musicians across the UK Billed by The Sunday Times as the biggest night in UK classical music the awards shine a light on brilliant musical individuals groups and initiatives inspiring communities nationwideAlpesh Chauhan OBE Music Director of the Birmingham Opera Company has been nominated in the Conductor category and sitarist and composer Jasdeep Singh Degun is in the Instrumentalist Award and the LargeScale Composition Award categoriesOf the 19 individual performers and composers shortlisted 42 per cent represent the global majority including cellist Ayanna WitterJohnson Music Director of the Birmingham Opera Company Alpesh Chauhan and sitar player Jasdeep Singh Degun a press note by RPS readIn a post shared on X Leedsborn Degun thanked his teacher for supporting him in his musical journeyVery surreal to announce that Ive been nominated for two RoyalPhilSoc Awards For Best Instrumentalist and Large Scale Composition I am very thankful to my teacher Ustad Dharambir Singh and to the numerous individuals and organisations that have supported me over the years Degun saidHis work as a composer comusic director and soloist in the highly praised opera Orpheus commissioned by Opera North in partnership with South Asian ArtsUK earned him a nomination for the LargeScale Composition Award according to a press noteOrpheus garnered fivestar reviews and earned Degun a 2022 Critics Circle Music Award for Outstanding Achievement in OperaHis other awards and acknowledgments include the Songlines Best Newcomer Award an Asian Achievers Award an Asian Media Award and an Ivor Novello Classical Award nomination for Best Stage WorkLearning under the guidance of Ustad Dharambir Singh MBE Degun has performed all over the world in prestigious venues including Buckingham Palace the Amphitheatre in Doha and Westminster Abbey at the Royal Commonwealth Service 2022 in the presence of the British Royal Family and Prime MinisterDegun trained intensively in India under maestro Ustad Shujaat Khan in 2010 and studied as an International Scholar at the prestigious Sangeet Research Academy Kolkata under the guidance of Pandit Partho Chatterjee and Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty in early 2016Birminghamborn Chauhans debut album featuring orchestral works by Tchaikovsky was released with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra on Chandos Records in June 2023He entered the Royal Northern College of Music in 2008 to study the cello before pursuing the prestigious Masters Conducting CourseFollowing his musical debut in 2015 he was appointed Principal Conductor of Filarmonica Arturo Toscanini in Parma and performed much of the great symphonic repertoire including a complete cycle of Brahmss symphoniesIn 2022 Chauhan was named Miglior Direttore by the Italian National Association of Music Critics for concerts given across Italy in 2021 and in January 2022 received an OBE for Services to the Arts in the Queens New Year HonoursThe RPS Awards will take place at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester on March 5 with tickets priced between ten to 25 pounds IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/two-british-indian-musicians-in-royal-philharmonic-society-awards-shortlist-515517.html Fri, 02 Feb 2024 11:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/four-indian-students-dead-in-us-angry-netizens-call-for-travel-advisory-515563.html New Delhi Feb 2 Four Indian students have died in quick succession in the US sparking fears regarding the safety and security of those studying abroad and angry netizens calling for a travel advisoryThe most recent reported case was of Shreyas Reddy Benigeri a student of Lindner School of Business in Cincinnati on Thursday after the deaths of Purdue Universitys Neel Acharya MBA student Vivek Saini in Georgia and University of Illinois Akul B DhawanAnnouncing Benigeris death the Indian Consulate in New York said that a police investigation is underway even as calls for an advisory for Indian students grew louder among netizensDeeply saddened by the unfortunate demise of Shreyas Reddy Benigeri a student of Indian origin in Ohio Police investigation is underway At this stage foul play is not suspected the Consulate said in a post on XThe Consulate further said it is in touch with the Benigeri family and is extending all possible assistance to themMEA Ministry of External Affairs needs to issue an advisory for Indian students on keeping them safe in the US Just shipping their remains to India is not their sole job Debashish Sarkar a user on X wrote in response to the Consulates postCalling the US an increasingly becoming an unsafe place for Indians X user Sonam Mahajan wrote Its high time India issued a travel advisory against the US for Indians looking to move to the country for both higher education and work opportunitiesIndia should perhaps issue travel advisory for Indian students wanting to study in US another user Rakesh Bakshi wrote while many others urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take swift actionIndia last issued a travel advisory for its students and nationals in Canada in September 2023 given growing antiIndia activities and politically condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in the countryThe tragic incidents come with Indian students constituting more than 25 per cent of the over one million foreign students studying in the United States according to a November 2023 Open Doors reportThe number of Indians who travelled to the US for higher education increased by 35 per cent and resulted in an alltime high of 268923 students in the academic year 202223 the report saidLast year the US consular team in India issued over 140000 student visas more than in any other country in the world setting a record for the third year in a row IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/four-indian-students-dead-in-us-angry-netizens-call-for-travel-advisory-515563.html Fri, 02 Feb 2024 13:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-army-man-jailed-for-sex-attempt-on-minor-in-singapore-515200.html Singapore Feb 1 A 50yearold Indianorigin warrant officer with the Singapore Armed Forces SAF was sentenced to 10 months in jail on Thursday for attempting to have sex with a 15yearold in 2021Subramaniam Thaburan Rangasamy pleaded guilty last month to one count of sexually penetrating the minor who is now 17 The Straits Times newspaper reportedTwo other charges were taken into consideration during sentencing even as Subramaniam was suspended from all duties following his arrestA Ministry of Defence spokeswoman told the Daily that SAF will take further actions after court hearings which may include discharging Subramaniam from serviceThe incident happened on December 6 2021 when the victim was supposed to have an online meeting with her school counsellor in the morningThe Secondary 3 student was walking down from the fifth floor of the carpark when she fell and hit a door and Subramaniam helped her to her feetShe thanked him and after chatting for about an hour on one of the floors of the carpark they became intimateSubramaniam tried to have sex with her but failed following which they parted ways and exchanged numbers the news report saidThe court heard that they remained in contact via WhatsApp but the messages were not of a sexual natureTwo days after the incident the girl made a police report because she felt that Subramaniam had taken advantage of herDeputy Public Prosecutor Sunil Nair had told the court in earlier proceedings The accused was not at any time misled as to the victims age The accused did not force or coerce the victim to be intimateFor penetrating a minor below 16 an offender can be jailed for up to 10 years and fined IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-army-man-jailed-for-sex-attempt-on-minor-in-singapore-515200.html Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/3-indo-canadians-to-be-extradited-to-us-for-drug-trafficking-514972.html Toronto Feb 1 Three Indianorigin men have been arrested in Canada and will be extradited for trial in the US for their alleged links with a network trafficking drugs between Mexico and the North American nationsA joint operation between the Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police RCMP dubbed Operation Dead Hand saw 19 people charged in two US federal indictments for their alleged roles in the organized crime ringAyush Sharma 25 and Guramrit Sandhu 60 both from Brampton and Subham Kumar 29 from Calgary were arrested under an international arrest warrant the RCMP said in a release on TuesdayDrug trafficking is a global problem being driven by sophisticated organised crime groups who put profits over peoples lives Motivated by greed these criminals destroy lives devastate families and wreak havoc in our community said US Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of CaliforniaInvestigators developed information indicating the organised crime group used Canadian handlers and dispatchers who travelled from Canada to Los Angeles for short amounts of time a Department of Justice release notedThe handlers coordinated the pickup and delivery of large shipments of cocaine and methamphetamine which were loaded onto longhaul semitrucks destined for Canada Wholesale quantities of fentanyl were seized as a result of the investigationThe transportation was coordinated by a network of drivers working with dozens of trucking companies who made numerous border crossings from the US to Canada via the Detroit Windsor Tunnel the Buffalo Peace Bridge and the Blue Water BridgeSidhu also known as King is alleged to have orchestrated the trafficking and exportation of largescale quantities of controlled substances to Canada working with several codefendants described as suppliersAccording to the indictment Sidhu occupied the position of an organiser supervisor and manager and in this role obtained substantial income and resourcesHe has been charged with one count of engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise and if convicted he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prisonSharma and Kumar were identified in the indictment as semitruck drivers involved in exporting drugs to CanadaBoth the indictments allege illicit drug trafficking activity cumulatively involving approximately 845 kgs of methamphetamine 951 kgs of cocaine 20 kgs of fentanyl and 4 kgs of heroinOver 900000 in cash was seized during the investigation The estimated wholesale value of the narcotics seized was between 1628 millionArrest and search warrants were executed on Tuesday morning by a coalition of international law enforcement partners in various cities including Los Angeles Sacramento California Miami Odessa Texas Montreal Toronto and Calgary Canada IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/3-indo-canadians-to-be-extradited-to-us-for-drug-trafficking-514972.html Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-pleads-guilty-to-bank-secrecy-act-charges-in-1bn-scheme-515234.html New York Feb 1 An IndianAmerican man admitted that he failed to maintain an antimoney laundering programme in violation of the Bank Secrecy Act as part of a scheme to bring lucrative and highrisk international financial business to a small unsophisticated credit unionGyanendra Asre 56 a certified antimoney laundering specialist from New York is scheduled to be sentenced on May 3 a Department of Justice release stated on WednesdayAccording to court documents from 2014 to 2016 Asre was a member of the supervisory board of the New York State Employees Federal Credit Union NYSEFCU a financial institution that was required to have an antimoney laundering programThrough the NYSEFCU and other entities Asre participated in a scheme that brought over 1 billion in highrisk transactions including millions of dollars of bulk cash transactions from a foreign bank to the NYSEFCUExperienced in international banking and trained in antimoney laundering compliance and procedures Asre represented to the NYSEFCU that he and his businesses would conduct appropriate antimoney laundering oversight as required by the Bank Secrecy ActBased on Asres representations the NYSEFCU a small credit union with a volunteer board that primarily served New York state public employees allowed Asre and his entities to conduct highrisk transactions through itContrary to his representations Asre failed to implement and maintain an antimoney laundering program at the NYSEFCUThis failure caused the NYSEFCU to process the highrisk transactions without appropriate oversight and without ever filing a single Suspicious Activity Report as required by lawA federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the US Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factorsAsres case was prosecuted by Acting Chief Margaret Moeser of the Criminal Divisions Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section MLARSMLARS Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions including their officers managers and employees whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-pleads-guilty-to-bank-secrecy-act-charges-in-1bn-scheme-515234.html Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-doctor-found-not-guilty-of-masturbating-next-to-minor-on-plane-515249.html New York Feb 1 A 33yearold IndianAmerican doctor accused of masturbating next to a 14yearold girl on a plane has been found not guilty following a threeday trial in Boston federal courtSudipta Mohanty a primary care physician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston was accused of performing the lewd act on a Hawaiian Airlines flight from Honolulu to Boston in May 2022After a judge cleared him of any wrongdoing on Wednesday Mohanty said the accusation had been difficult for his family The New York Post reportedMy fiance was sitting next to me on that flight and neither of us can understand why this happened to us he said in a written statementI have dedicated my life to caring for others as a physician and it has been heartbreaking to step away while I dealt with these false accusationsFollowing the incident Mohanty was arrested and charged with one count of lewd indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the USAccording to the charging documents Mohanty was seated next to the minor who was travelling with her grandparents seated nearbyAbout halfway through the flight the minor allegedly observed that Mohanty had covered himself with a blanket up to his neck and that Mohantys leg was bouncing up and downShortly thereafter the minor observed that the blanket was on the floor no longer covering Mohanty and that he was masturbatingThe minor moved herself to an empty seat in a different row for the remainder of the flight and claimed to have felt disgusted and very uncomfortableAfter arriving in Boston she informed members of her family about the incident and law enforcement was notifiedMohanty said that the dozen passengers around them and the flight attendants never acted like anything was wrong during the time frame the girl accused him of selfpleasure The Post reportedAfter being indicted in September he opted for a bench trial meaning he handed his case down to a judge not a juryThe charge of lewd indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the US provides for a sentence of up to 90 days in prison up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to 5000Prosecutors said they were disappointed with the cases outcome saying Our office has no reservations about having proceeded with this caseOur office will remain steadfast in supporting victims particularly minor children It is critical that victims know they can come forward and they will be heard and be fully supported by our office US Attorney Joshua Levy was quoted as saying in The PostDr Mohanty is a talented and dedicated medical doctor He has absolutely no history of wrongdoing whatsoever Mohantys lawyer Claudia Lagos said in a statementThe last six months have been a bizarre nightmare for him and he is relieved this is finally over so that he can rebuild his life Lagos said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-doctor-found-not-guilty-of-masturbating-next-to-minor-on-plane-515249.html Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indo-canadian-driver-arrested-after-406-kg-of-meth-found-inside-truck-515022.html Toronto Feb 1 A 29yearold IndoCanadian driver has been arrested after border officials found 4062 kilograms of whats believed to be methamphetamine from large suitcases inside his commercial truck police saidKomalpreet Sidhu from Winnipeg was arrested by the Manitoba Royal Canadian Mounted Police RCMP on January 14 and is expected to appear in court today the CBC news channel reportedHe faces two charges importation of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance for trafficking in what has been described by the officials as the largest narcotic seizure ever made in the PrairiesThe truck which was en route to Winnipeg was searched at the Boissevain port of entry Ken McGregor of the Canada Border Services Agency CBSA said at a news conference in Winnipeg on WednesdayHe said 200 individually wrapped packages were discovered inside suitcases in the truck and would be eventually destroyedThe total amount of suspected drugs seized adds up to about four million illicit doses with an estimated street value of more than CA 507 millionInspector Joe Telus a division intelligence officer with RCMP federal policing said the truck came from the United States and the drugs would have likely been distributed to locations across Manitoba and possibly in Western Canada and OntarioAccording to him the truck has been linked to a commercial trucking company based in the province of Manitoba where they believe the driver workedTelus further said that the size of the shipment suggests the transport of the drugs involved organized crime at the local national and international levelsSidhus arrest comes just as three other IndoCanadians are set to be extradited to the US for their alleged links with a network trafficking drugs between Mexico and the North American nationsThey were identified as Ayush Sharma 25 and Guramrit Sidhu 60 both from Brampton and Subham Kumar 29 from Calgary according to an RCMP statement released on TuesdaySidhu also known as King is alleged to have orchestrated the trafficking and exportation of largescale quantities of controlled substances to Canada working with several codefendants described as suppliersHe has been charged with one count of engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise and if convicted he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prisonSharma and Kumar were identified in the US indictment as semitruck drivers involved in exporting drugs to Canada IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indo-canadian-driver-arrested-after-406-kg-of-meth-found-inside-truck-515022.html Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/no-signs-of-trauma-or-injuries-found-on-neel-acharyas-body-coroner-514562.html New York Jan 31 No signs of trauma or significant injuries have been found during the autopsy of Indian student Neel Acharya a US county coroner said confirming that foul play is not suspected at the moment in the death of the Purdue University studentTippecanoe County Coroner Carrie Costello said she met with the next of kin of Acharya on Tuesday who confirmed his identity as a 19yearold Purdue University studentOn January 29 2024 a forensic autopsy was performed at the Tippecanoe County Coroners Office on Neel There was no trauma or significant injuries found during the autopsy No foul play is suspected at this time Costello saidShe added that a report on the preliminary cause of death toxicology and the preliminary manner of death are still pendingThis is an ongoing investigation with the Tippecanoe County Coroners Office and the Purdue University Police Department Costello addedWhile meeting the next of kin of Acharya Costello expressed her deepest sympathies and condolences to the family that is going through a difficult timeOfficials were called around 1130 am on Sunday to West Lafayette after a collegeaged male was found deceased outside Maurice J Zucrow Laboratories on Purdue University campusAcharya a double major in computer science and data science at the John Martinson Honors College had gone missing last week just before his deathAccording to Goury Acharya her son was last seen by the Uber driver who dropped him off in Purdue UniversityChris Clifton the universitys Computer Science head called Acharya a driven individual and academically talentedAcharyas friend and roommate Aryan Khanolkar told The Purdue Exponent the universitys studentrun newspaper that he was a loving charismatic soul and will be cherished by all of us IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/no-signs-of-trauma-or-injuries-found-on-neel-acharyas-body-coroner-514562.html Wed, 31 Jan 2024 11:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/review-ordered-into-decision-to-accept-manslaughter-pleas-of-british-indian-teens-killer-514693.html London Jan 31 An independent review has been ordered into prosecutors decision to accept the manslaughter pleas of a 32yearold attacker who stabbed an Indianorigin teen and two others to death in the UK last yearValdo Calocane a dual GuineaBissauPortuguese national killed 19yearold students Grace OMalleyKumar and Barnaby Webber and 65yearold school caretaker Ian Coates during an incident near Nottingham University on June 13 2023Attorney General Victoria Prentis said she ordered an urgent review into the way the Crown Prosecution Service CPS handled the case the BBC reportedPrentis asked His Majestys Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate to carry out the review saying The senseless deaths of Barnaby Webber Grace OMalleyKumar and Ian Coates have horrified the countryWhile nothing will bring their loved ones back the families understandably want to understand what happened in this caseThats why I have asked the inspectorate to carry out a prompt and thorough review of CPS actionsA spokesperson for His Majestys Chief Inspector of the CPS said they accept the request for the review the findings of which are expected by EasterThe move by Prentis comes less than a week after prosecutors during a hearing at the Nottingham Crown Court accepted Calocanes guilty plea based on diminished responsibility which means he will not be tried for murderAccording to BBC the CPS said psychiatrists provided overwhelming evidence the killer was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia which resulted in him believing that the MI6 was spying on himHowever Webbers mother said the CPS had not consulted them and said they had been rushed hastened and railroadedCalocane denied three counts of murder but admitted to three counts of manslaughter and three counts of attempted murderFollowing the attorney generals decision the victims families issued a joint statement saying that they were united as families in this national tragedyWe reiterate our deep and grave concerns in this case and our disappointment that we have had to resort to this additional level of trauma and stress to feel listened to and for further actions to be takenIn addition to a full open and transparent investigation the families also asked to be given an opportunity to discuss in person the concerns and evidence of concerns that they have with the IOPC Independent Office for Police Conduct and the attorney generalCalling for a public inquiry into the case the families met Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Monday who promised them that we will get the answersIn an interview with the ITV News Sunak said on Tuesday that a decision about whether a public inquiry is the next logical step will be made after all the agencies involved in the case have been independently investigatedOnce we hear back from that then we can sit down with them and decide if there are more questions that need answering Sunak said at ITVs This MorningMeanwhile in line with the Attorney Generals announcement Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins ordered on Monday a special review into Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust where Calocane was treated for paranoid schizophreniaConducted by The Care Quality Commission CQC the review will be carried out alongside the Independent Mental Health Homicide Review ordered by NHS England to examine the case of Valdo Calocane IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/review-ordered-into-decision-to-accept-manslaughter-pleas-of-british-indian-teens-killer-514693.html Wed, 31 Jan 2024 15:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-national-sentenced-for-nearly-28mn-healthcare-fraud-in-us-514500.html New York Jan 31 A 43yearold Indian national in the US state of Michigan has been sentenced to nine years in prison for orchestrating a nearly 28 million healthcare fraudYogesh K Pancholi from Northville was also found guilty of wire fraud conspiracy engaging in money laundering aggravated identity theft and witness tamperingAccording to court documents and evidence presented at trial Pancholi owned and operated Shring Home Care Inc a home health company based in Livonia Michigan a Department of Justice release saidDespite being excluded from billing Medicare Pancholi purchased Shring using the names signatures and personal identifying information of others to conceal his ownership of the companyIn a twomonth period Pancholi and his coconspirators billed and were paid nearly 28 million by Medicare for services that were never providedPancholi then transferred these funds through bank accounts belonging to shell corporations and eventually into his accounts in IndiaAfter being indicted and on the eve of trial Pancholi using a pseudonym wrote false and malicious emails to various federal government agenciesIn those emails he alleged a government witness had committed various crimes and should not be allowed to remain in the US in an attempt to keep the witness from testifyingIn September 2023 a federal jury in the Eastern District of Michigan convicted Pancholi of conspiracy to commit healthcare and wire fraud two substantive counts of healthcare fraud two counts of money laundering two counts of aggravated identity theft and one count of witness tamperingPacholis case was investigated by the FBI Detroit Field Office and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General HHSOIGThe Justice Departments Criminal Division has been making efforts to combat healthcare fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force ProgramSince March 2007 this program currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts has charged more than 5400 defendants who collectively have billed federal healthcare programs and private insurers more than 27 billion IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-national-sentenced-for-nearly-28mn-healthcare-fraud-in-us-514500.html Wed, 31 Jan 2024 08:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/h-1b-visa-process-begins-march-6-amid-overhaul-of-lottery-system-514520.html New York Jan 31 The initial registration for the H1B visa application for fiscal year 2025 will open from March 6 and run through March 22 the US Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS said on TuesdayThe announcement came as part of a final rule to strengthen the integrity of and reduce the potential for fraud in the registration process of the nonimmigrant visa that allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupationsSome of the steps taken by the federal agency include reducing the potential for gaming the registration system and ensuring each beneficiary would have the same chance of being selected regardless of the number of registrations submitted on their behalfThe initial registration period for the FY 2025 H1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 6 2024 and run through noon Eastern on March 22 2024 USCIS said in a news releaseDuring this period prospective petitioners and their representatives if applicable must use a USCIS online account to register each beneficiary electronically for the selection process and pay the associated registration fee for each beneficiary it addedThe agencys final rule contains provisions that will create a beneficiarycentric selection process for registrations by employers codify start date flexibility for certain petitions subject to the congressionally mandated H1B cap and add more integrity measures related to the registration processWere always looking for ways to bolster integrity and curtail the potential for fraud while improving and streamlining our application processes said USCIS Director Ur M JaddouThe improvements in these areas should make H1B selections more equitable for petitioners and beneficiaries and will allow for the H1B process to be fully electronic from registration if applicable until final decision and transmission of approved petitions to the Department of StateUnder the beneficiarycentric process registrations will be selected by unique beneficiary rather than by registrationThis new process is designed to reduce the potential for fraud and ensure each beneficiary would have the same chance of being selected regardless of the number of registrations submitted on their behalf by an employerStarting with the fiscal year 2025 initial registration period USCIS will require registrants to provide valid passport information or valid travel document information for each beneficiaryThe passport or travel document provided must be the one the beneficiary if or when abroad intends to use to enter the US if issued an H1B visaEach beneficiary must only be registered under one passport or travel document the USCIS said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/h-1b-visa-process-begins-march-6-amid-overhaul-of-lottery-system-514520.html Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/punjab-man-guilty-of-fatal-car-crash-in-canada-deported-to-india-514140.html Toronto Jan 30 A 26yearold man hailing from Punjab has been deported to India less than a year after he was found guilty of a car crash that killed a woman and her elderly mother in the Canadian province of AlbertaBipinjot Gill who arrived in Canada in 2016 on a student visa sped through a red light in Calgary on May 18 2019 killing Uzma Afzal 31 and her mother Bilquees Begum 65 on the spotHe left Canada after his attempts to have a deportation order stayed were rejected by a Federal Court judge this month the Calgary Herald newspaper reportedThe applicant committed and was convicted for a serious crime Lives were lost The families of the victims will never see family members again Judge Shirzad Ahmed said in his rulingHe also dismissed Gills claims that he would face harm if returned to India by not being able to access treatment for his mental health issuesAnd while Gill has struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues he has been found criminally responsible for his conduct by a competent court of lawGill who was 21 at the time of the accident was behind the wheel of a Hyundai that crashed into a Toyota Corolla at the intersection of Metis Trail and 128 Avenue NE in the early morning hours of May 18 2019While the two women were pronounced dead on the spot the driver of the Toyota Begums husband and Uzmas husband were taken to the hospital in critical conditionHe was convicted of the double fatality case in April 2023 and sentenced in November to a term of house arrest 300 hours of community service and one year of probationThree months after the accident Gill was also convicted of dangerous driving and fleeing from a peace officer in August 2019 the judge notedHe was issued a deportation order on September 6 2022 after being found inadmissible to Canada for serious criminality The Herald reportedGills lawyer said his client ran out of time in his bid to stay the deportation order and acted without legal counsel for too longA native of Punjab Gill earned a twoyear diploma from Bow Valley College in 2018His parents and brother are in Canada on temporary visas while his uncle and grandparents are Canadian citizens IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/punjab-man-guilty-of-fatal-car-crash-in-canada-deported-to-india-514140.html Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/missing-indian-student-found-dead-on-purdue-university-campus-in-us-514141.html New York Jan 30 An Indian studying at Purdue University has been found dead outside a building on the campus after he went missing last week a county coroner in the US confirmedAccording to the Tippecanoe County Coroners Office officials were called around 1130 am on Sunday to 500 Allison Road in West Lafayette for a possible bodyUpon arrival a collegeaged male was found deceased outside Maurice J Zucrow Laboratories on Purdues campus the Fox59 news channel reported citing the coronerOur deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family and we hope they are respected during such a difficult time Coroner Carrie Costello said adding that an autopsy is due to take placeAccording to The Purdue Exponent the universitys studentrun newspaper Acharya was a double major in computer science and data science at the John Martinson Honors CollegeChris Clifton the universitys Computer Science head told The Exponent that he received an email from the Office of the Dean of Students confirming Acharyas death on MondayIt is with great sadness that I inform you that one of our students Neel Acharya has passed away My condolences go out to his friends family and all affected Clifton wrote in an email to the faculty and studentsClifton called Acharya a driven individual and academically talentedAcharyas friend and roommate Aryan Khanolkar told The Exponent that he was a loving charismatic soul and will be cherished by all of usAccording to Goury Acharya mother of the deceased her son was last seen by the Uber driver who dropped him off in Purdue universityIn a post shared on X she appealed for help saying Our son Neel Acharya is missing since yesterday Jan 28 1230 AM EST He is studying in Purdue University in the US He was last seen by the Uber driver who dropped him off in Purdue University We are looking for any info on him Please help us if you know anythingIn a reply to the post the Consulate General of India in Chicago said that is in touch with Purdue University authorities and will extend all possible support and helpThe incident comes just days after a 25yearold Indian student working parttime at a convenience store in Georgia was hammered to death by a homeless manVivek Saini was hit almost 50 times on the face and the head according to an employee who worked with him IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/missing-indian-student-found-dead-on-purdue-university-campus-in-us-514141.html Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/king-charles-charity-leads-initiative-to-focus-on-education-of-4-million-indian-kids-514182.html London Jan 30 The British Asian Trust a charity founded by King Charles III is leading an educational initiative that will impact the lives of up to four million children in India across five yearsThe initiative LiftEd Learning and Innovation in Foundational Literacy and Numeracy to Transform Education aims to strengthen Indias education ecosystem and was launched on International Day of Education last weekTargeting public school children across grades 13 LiftEd brings together a diverse mix of education experts to improve Foundational Literacy and Numeracy FLN in India raising up to USD 20 million INR 166 crore from a consortium of 26 partnersNotable names include Atlassian Foundation Bridges Outcomes Partnerships Michael amp Susan Dell Foundation Reliance Foundation Standard Chartered Bank UBS Optimus Foundation and USAIDThe initiative comes after the Indian government identified FLN as an urgent and necessary prerequisite to learning and in 2021 launched the landmark NIPUN Bharat Mission to equip every child aged 410 with FLN skills by 202627Applying our learnings from previous successes in education in India we recognised the value of aligning with the Government of Indias goals embedding a systemschange approach and unlocking the power of technology early on said Bharath Visweswariah Executive Director India British Asian TrustFLN is understood as the ability to read and understand basic text and solve basic mathematical problems by the end of grade threeLiftEds ambition is to strengthen these building blocks of learning through a dual approach onground and athome interventions the British Asian Trust said in a statementIt further said that LiftEds onground education partners are working with state governments and school facilitators in five geographies Himachal Pradesh Haryana Delhi NCR Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to train them and build their capacity to improve FLN levelsParallely LiftEd has also launched an EdTech Accelerator to develop digital solutions to improve FLN for lowincome students in IndiaThe British Asian Trust was founded in 2007 by King Charles III when he was the Prince of Wales along with a group of British Asian business leaders to tackle widespread poverty inequality and injustice in South Asia IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/king-charles-charity-leads-initiative-to-focus-on-education-of-4-million-indian-kids-514182.html Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-couple-convicted-of-exporting-gbp57-mn-cocaine-to-australia-514197.html London Jan 30 A British Indian couple has been convicted of exporting more than half a tonne of cocaine worth 57 million pounds to Australia after a probe found they were behind a company that sent the drugs by plane under a cover load of metal toolboxesArti Dhir 59 and Kavaljitsinh Raijada 35 were convicted of 12 counts of exportation and 18 counts of money laundering by a jury following a trial at Southwark Crown Court on MondayThe married couple from Hanwell in the Ealing district of West London who denied exporting cocaine to Australia and money laundering will be sentenced at the same court todayDhir and Raijada were identified by National Crime Agency NCA investigators after the Australian Border Force intercepted the cocaine upon its arrival in Sydney in May 2021The drugs had been shipped via a commercial flight from the UK and consisted of six metal toolboxes which when opened were found to contain 514 kilos of cocaineOfficers traced the consignment back to Dhir and Raijada who had set up a front company called Viefly Freight Services with the sole purpose of smuggling drugsBoth defendants had been directors of the company at different points since its incorporation in June 2015 the NCA said in a statement released on MondayRaijadas fingerprints were found on the plastic wrappings of the metal toolboxes containing the seized drugs while receipts for the order of the toolboxes worth 2855 pounds were discovered at the couples homeThe NCA claimed that there had been 37 consignments sent to Australia since June 2019 of which 22 were dummy runs and 15 contained cocaineAccording to the crime agency their knowledge of the airport freight procedures with both of them having worked for a flight services company at Heathrow was used to cover their criminal activitiesArti Dhir and Kavaljitsinh Raijada used their insider knowledge of the air freight industry to traffic cocaine worth tens of millions of pounds from the UK to Australia where they knew they could maximise their revenue Piers Phillips NCA Senior Investigating Officer saidThey kept their illicit profits in cash at their home and in storage units as well as purchasing property gold and silver in an attempt to hide their wealth These defendants may have thought they were removed from the misery caused by the drugs trade but their greed was fuelling it Phillips addedDhir and Raijada were arrested at their home in Hanwell on June 21 2021A search of their premises led to 5000 pounds worth of goldplated silver bars 13000 pounds inside the home and 60000 pounds in cash in a safety deposit boxFollowing further investigations the pair were arrested again in February 2023 and this time officers discovered almost three million pounds in cash hidden in boxes and suitcases at a storage unit in Hanwell which Raijada had rented in his mothers nameFinancial inquiries found they had also purchased a flat in Ealing for 800000 pounds and a Land Rover for 62000 pounds despite declaring profits of only a few thousand pounds to HMRC His Majestys Revenue and CustomsInvestigations showed that both defendants held cash in bank accounts which far exceeded their declared incomeThey had deposited almost 740000 pounds in cash into 22 different bank accounts since 2019 and were further charged with money laundering IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-couple-convicted-of-exporting-gbp57-mn-cocaine-to-australia-514197.html Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indo-canadian-arrested-in-connection-with-fatal-shooting-of-teen-514228.html Toronto Jan 30 An 18yearold IndoCanadian has been taken into custody and an arrest warrant has been issued for a 16yearold in connection with the shooting death of a fellow Indianorigin teen last monthPreetpaul Singh was arrested after homicide investigators executed a search warrant at a house in Brampton Ontario and has been charged with accessory after the fact to commit an indictable offence the Peel Police said in a releaseOn December 19 2023 a local hospital notified Peel Police about 18yearold Nishan Thind who was admitted with a gunshot wound just before 6 pmPolice said Thind who succumbed to his injuries in the hospital was shot at an unknown location and timeThe alleged shooter a 16yearold boy continues to be at large and is wanted on a Canadawide warrant for manslaughterHe cannot be named under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act the police said in a recent statementPolice said active investigation into the case is on and anyone with information is asked to contact homicide detectives IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indo-canadian-arrested-in-connection-with-fatal-shooting-of-teen-514228.html Tue, 30 Jan 2024 13:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-student-killed-by-homeless-man-in-georgia-fuel-station-514111.html Washington Jan 29 An Indian student working parttime at a convenience store in USs Georgia was brutally beaten to death with a hammer by a homeless man he and other employees had been helping for the past couple of days the police said as quoted by media reportsThe incident in which Vivek Saini 25 was killed occurred on January 18 local channel WSBTV reported on SundayWitnesses say Vivek was attacked with a hammer by a homeless man at the Chevron Food Mart at Snapfinger and Cleveland Road in Lithonia on January 18 late nightWorkers at the Food Mart said since January 14 evening they allowed a homeless man who police have identified as 53yearold Julian Faulkner to come in and out of their store WSBTV reportedHe asked us for chips and coke We gave him everything including the water said one of the employees at the ChevronHe added that they spent almost two days helping the manHe asked if I could get a blanket I said we dont have blankets so I gave him a jacket He was walking in and out asking him for cigarettes water and everything said the employeeHe was sitting here all the time and we never asked him to get out because we know that its coldBut on January 16 night Saini told Faulkner it was time to go WSBTV reportedHe asked him to leave or else he was going to call the cops he had been there for two days said the employeePolice said as Saini left to go home Faulkner attacked him with a hammerHe hit him from the back then he kept on hitting for almost 50 times on the face and on the head the employee addedAccording to the incident report when officers arrived Faulkner was still holding a hammer and standing over the victimPolice gave him verbal commands to drop the hammerVivek a recent MBA graduate was pronounced dead inside the store WSBTV reportedCant even describe what Im feeling We were always trying to be helpful and we never expected this sort of thing would happenPolice said Faulkner is in jail on charges of malice murder and interference with government property IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-student-killed-by-homeless-man-in-georgia-fuel-station-514111.html Mon, 29 Jan 2024 01:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/melodious-pm-modi-praises-patriotic-song-by-egyptian-girl-on-75th-r-day-513674.html New Delhi Jan 29 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised a patriotic song rendered by an Egyptian girl at Indias 75th Republic Day celebrations in Cairo Dressed in traditional Indian attire Kariman sang the Desh Rangeela song at the India House leaving a large gathering of Indians and Egyptians impressedThis rendition by Kariman from Egypt is melodious I congratulate her for this effort and wish her the very best for her future endeavours PM Modi wrote as he shared the video of the song on XThe video was originally shared by the Indian Embassy in Egypt on Sunday which praised Karimans melodious singing and intonationA young Egyptian girl Kariman presented a patriotic song Desh Rangeela during 75th RepublicDay celebrations at India House Her melodious singing and correct intonation impressed the large gathering of Indians and Egyptians the Embassy saidIt further stated in successive posts that young Egyptians showcased their love for Indian classical dance and music with cultural programmes at the India House in the Egyptian capitalWomen from the Indian community performed Garba after Ambassador Ajit V Gupte unfurled the Tricolour and read the address of President Droupadi Murmu to the Indian diaspora and friends of India in the countryAccording to the Indian Embassy in Cairo the Indian community in Egypt numbers around 3200 most of whom are concentrated in the countrys capitalThere are also a small number of families in Alexandria Port Said and Ismailia A majority of the Indians are either employed with Indian companies or are professionals with various multinationalsAbout 400 Indian students are studying in Egypt mainly in Al Azhar University with around 275 students and the rest in Ain Shams Medical University around 80 students and Cairo University the Embassy website saidExternal Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited the country in October 2022 where he thanked the diaspora for advancing Indias national interests and shaping the countrys image in the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/melodious-pm-modi-praises-patriotic-song-by-egyptian-girl-on-75th-r-day-513674.html Mon, 29 Jan 2024 19:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nyc-mayor-unveils-gandhi-statue-outside-hindu-temple-after-2022-vandalism-incidents-513945.html New York Jan 29 New York City Mayor Eric Adams and IndianAmerican State Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar have unveiled a new Mahatma Gandhi statue more than a year after the previous one was vandalised twice outside a Hindu temple in the state Located in front of Shri Tulsi Mandir on 111th Street in Richmond Hill the Gandhi statue was knocked over spray painted with the word dog and battered with a sledgehammer on August 3 and 16 2022Last year the statue of Gandhi that stood in South Richmond Hill was destroyed But our solidarity and spirit to rebuild was not Today we stood with the community to say in one voice Hate has no place in our city Mayor Adams said unveiling the statue last weekWe embody the values of justice for which Gandhi gave his life Mayor Adams said at the event attended by members of the IndianAmerican communityRajkumar who was at the forefront calling for an investigation into the incident as a hate crime against Hindus and Indians posted a video of the ceremony on X and said it was exciting to unveil the statue along with Mayor AdamsEXCITING Watch myself and NYCMayor unveil the new Mahatma Gandhi Statue at Tulsi Mandir at the site of last years hateful vandalism It was a historic moment for our Richmond Hill community as we came together to show that our love will conquer all hate she wrote on XAfter the first attack Rajkumar brought together several elected officials including House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee Gregory Meeks to condemn the attack and demand police actionAs the first Hindu elected to the New York State legislature Rajkumar said When the Gandhi statue was vandalised that really flew in the face of all of our beliefs and its very disturbing for the communityAssembly Member David Weprin Council Member Lynn Schulman and Pandit Lakhram Maharaj founder of Shri Tulsi Mandir were also present in the ceremonyIn 2022 a hate crime was committed not once but twice against the Hindu community in RichmondHill with the destruction of the Gandhi statue in front of the Shri Tulsi Mandir Many including JeniferRajkumar DavidWeprin and myself stood in solidarity against this hatred Yesterday I was proud to join with the community to unveil a new Gandhi statue Council Member Schulman wrote on XAccording to the New York Police Department NYPD six unidentified men between 25 and 30 years were spotted on surveillance video vandalising the statue following which they fled after getting into two separate cars a white Mercedes Benz and a dark Toyota CamryA month after the attack 27yearold Sukhpal Singh who was part of a group was arrested and charged with hate crimesLakhram Maharaj had then said To see them coming after us like this is very painful I want to know why they did it As per NYPD data in 2022 there were over 330 confirmed hate incidents a 127 per cent increase when compared to the same period in 2020 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/nyc-mayor-unveils-gandhi-statue-outside-hindu-temple-after-2022-vandalism-incidents-513945.html Mon, 29 Jan 2024 14:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haryana-sets-up-nri-grievance-redressal-cell-513721.html Chandigarh Jan 29 An NRI Grievance Redressal Cell has been established for NonResident Indians NRIs especially those of Haryana origin to address their issues and complaints under a single roof it was announced on MondayA circular to this effect has been issued by the office of the Chief Secretary and the centre has been set up at the Haryana Civil Secretariat in ChandigarhDuring the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 in Gandhinagar representatives of at least 10 companies from Japan the US and African countries had a onetoone meeting with the Chief Minister and they discussed the possibilities of investing in HaryanaInvestors sought information about the industrial and employment incentive policies of the state government and expressed their desire to expand their existing units in Haryana and invest in new locations under the policyDuring this interaction foreign investors and NRIs requested the governments assistance in providing a quick resolution to difficulties and complaints an official statement saidIn response in this regard the Complaint Resolution Centre for NonResident Indians has been established IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/haryana-sets-up-nri-grievance-redressal-cell-513721.html Mon, 29 Jan 2024 20:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-museum-gets-200k-pounds-grant-to-tell-stories-of-last-sikh-maharaja-513475.html London Jan 28 A museum founded by the son of the last Sikh emperor of Punjab in England has received a grant of nearly 200k pounds which will be used to tell the familys story through its displays events and activitiesPrince Frederick Duleep Singh the son of Maharaja Duleep Singh gifted the Ancient House Museum to the people of Thetford town in the south of Norfolk in 1924The National Lottery Heritage Fund which supports a wide range of heritage projects across the UK awarded 198059 pounds to the museum which enters its centenary year in 2024Through the foresighted generosity of Prince Frederick Duleep Singh for the past 100 years Ancient House Museum has served the people of Thetford and beyond preserving the history of the town and surrounding area said Councillor Margaret Dewsbury Cabinet Member for Communities Norfolk County CouncilThis award will enable the museum to better serve our diverse communities and promote a deeper appreciation of an important aspect of the towns heritage she addedThe displays will present fascinating and important stories of the wider Duleep Singh family including Prince Frederick and his remarkable sisters Princesses Sophia and Catherine Duleep Singh both pioneers of womens political and private autonomyIn addition they will include a Treasury style display of treasures of AngloPunjab history a model of Elveden Hall personal items such as the Maharajahs walking stick given to him by the future King Edward VII when he was Prince of Wales which was donated to the museum in 2023Councillor Robert Kybird Chairman of the Breckland Area Museums Committee said that the award will further enhance Thetford as a destination of choice for visiting SikhsThe youngest son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Duleep Singh became the ruler of Punjab at the age of five but was removed from the throne after the Britain annexation of the territory in 1849He arrived in England at the age of 15 and lived at Elveden Hall tucked away in the Suffolk countrysideThe story of Ancient House as a museum begins when Prince Frederick Duleep Singh purchased the rare timbered Tudor house and gifted it to the people of Thetford as a Public Museum charity with the Council as TrusteeAncient House opened as a museum on December 11 1924 and was last redisplayed in 20042006Since then interest in the Duleep Singhs has grown significantly with new films articles TV and radio programmes books and annual Punjab festivals in Thetford attended by thousands of people Norfolk City Council saidOther funding for the twoyear project has come from the Thetford Town Council community grant the Friends of Thetford Museum Norfolk County Council and Arts Council England as part of the Norfolk Museum Services National Portfolio Organisation grant IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/uk-museum-gets-200k-pounds-grant-to-tell-stories-of-last-sikh-maharaja-513475.html Sun, 28 Jan 2024 18:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-parents-accuse-illinois-univ-of-negligence-after-teen-sons-death-513033.html New York Jan 27 Parents of an IndianAmerican teen who was found dead last weekend with signs of hypothermia have filed a complaint alleging negligence by the police department of the university where the son studiedAkul B Dhawan an 18yearold studying electrical engineering at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign was reported missing last Saturday just before 130 am by his friend the USA Today reportedAccording to the University of Illinois Police he was found nearly 10 hours later on the back porch of a building near the university campus in west Urbana which experienced brutal cold and freezing temperatures dipping between 20 to 30 degreesIsh and Ritu Dhawan said on Wednesday that their son was found just 400 feet from where he was reported missing based on locationtracking data on their sons phoneAccusing the universitys police department of negligence they filed a complaint against them over how the search was handled The Today reported citing The NewsGazetteThis is bizarre that a kid is never found who was just less than a block like one minute away sitting there dead frozen to death Imagine as a dad and mom whats going through in our mind I visualise his every minute that my son froze to death in a university campus Ish Dhawan told The GazetteWe really need answers his mother said What is the proof that they totally searched in this area around the area theyre talking about this halfblock My kid would have been foundDhawan came to the University of Illinois Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering to study robotics despite his parents opposition who wanted him to study closer to home in CaliforniaThe exact cause of Akuls death is under investigation by the campus police the Illinois State Police and the Champaign County Coroners OfficePreliminary investigations by the University police suggest that there was no foul play involved and the death is initially believed to be accidentalAccording to the coroners office preliminary findings of an autopsy performed on Tuesday showed signs of hypothermiaThe preliminary findings showed no evidence of significant trauma There was evidence of hypothermic skin changes The final autopsy report is pending toxicology studies the Champaign County Coroner said in a news statementUniversity of Illinois Police have requested anyone with information on the incident to contact the department IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-parents-accuse-illinois-univ-of-negligence-after-teen-sons-death-513033.html Sat, 27 Jan 2024 12:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-jailed-for-molesting-domestic-worker-hurting-man-in-singapore-512980.html Singapore Jan 27 A 61yearold Indianorigin man was sentenced to 10 months in jail in Singapore for molesting a domestic worker in a lift and punching a man with a metal chain wrapped around his fistSingaram Palianeapan pleaded guilty to a charge of using criminal force to outrage the modesty of a person and a charge of voluntarily causing hurt with a dangerous weaponFour other similar charges were considered during sentencing digital news outlet Today reported on FridayAccording to court documents the domestic worker was buying food at a coffee shop when she was approached by Singaram who offered her S2 to buy herself a drinkShe accepted the money upon being insisted by Singaram who followed her as she proceeded to head back to her employers residenceThe two reached the lift lobby of the housing block where the worker was living and she entered the lift even though Singaram did not live there The pair were alone in the liftDeputy Public Prosecutor DPP Jordy Kay said that once the doors closed and the lift started to move Singaram tried to touch the victims chest area and began to molest herFrightened the victim kept trying to push him away and after managing to escape she told her employer what had happened following which they filed a police reportSingaram was arrested on September 28 and released on bail the next day the online news outlet reportedAll of Singarams actions were captured on the lifts closedcircuit television camera which also showed that he was in the lift with the victim for about a minute and 28 secondsSingaram and all of his actions were captured on the lifts closedcircuit television cameraIn Singapore anyone using criminal force to outrage the modesty of a person could be jailed for up to three years fined or caned or receive any combination of these punishmentsA month after this incident Singaram went to Hu Jianpengs bicycle shop located along Woodlands Close to confront him about the problems he was facing with the personal mobility device PMD that he bought from himA dispute broke out between the two as they shouted at one another and Hus friend Yeoh Su Kai who was present there tried to calm them downSingaram retrieved a metal chain from his PMD wrapped it around his right fist and punched Yeoh in the face three times who was then rushed to hospitalYeoh was found to have sustained a two cmlong superficial wound over his left upper eyelid as well as tenderness over his neck and right buttock areaAnyone who voluntarily causes hurt with a dangerous weapon could be jailed for up to seven years or fined or caned or be given any combination of these punishments IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-jailed-for-molesting-domestic-worker-hurting-man-in-singapore-512980.html Sat, 27 Jan 2024 09:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-student-acquitted-after-taliban-joke-to-blow-up-plane-513008.html London Jan 27 A BritishIndian student has been acquitted by a Spanish court after he was accused of public disorder for joking about blowing up a plane in which he was travelling along with his friendsAditya Verma a student of economics at Bath University was on his way to the island of Menorca with friends in July 2022 when he made the remarks on Snapchat claiming that he is a member of the TalibanOn my way to blow up the plane Im a member of the Taliban the message sent before Verma departed Gatwick airport saidIn a trial held at the National Court in Madrid a judge in Madrid ruled on Friday that no explosive was found that would lead one to believe it was a real threat the BBC reportedA court in Madrid heard on Monday that the message was picked up by the UK security services on Gatwicks WiFi network who then alerted Spanish authorities following which two Spanish F18 fighter jets were sent to flank the aircraft with Verma onboardHowever a spokesperson for Gatwick Airport told BBC News that its WiFi network does not have that capability even as Snapchat an encrypted app refused to comment on the caseThe judges resolution said that the message for unknown reasons was captured by the security mechanisms of England when the plane was flying over French airspace the BBC said citing Europa Press news agencyIt was not immediately clear how UK authorities were alerted to the message with the judge noting they were not the subject of evidence in this trialVerma who was 18 at the time of the incident was arrested and kept in a police cell for two days and was later released on bailBack in the UK he was questioned by the British intelligence agencies MI5 and MI6 before he returned home to Orpington KentAppearing in the court on Monday Verma said the message was a joke in a private group setting and that the intention was never to cause public distress or cause public harmIt was just sent to my friends I was travelling with on the day Since school its been a joke because of my features It was just to make people laugh he was quoted as saying in the BBC reportIf he had been found guilty the student faced a fine of up to 22500 euros 19300 pounds and a further 95000 euros in expenses to cover the cost of the jets being scrambled IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-student-acquitted-after-taliban-joke-to-blow-up-plane-513008.html Sat, 27 Jan 2024 11:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-sikh-says-was-urged-to-confess-post-office-theft-due-to-her-asian-descent-512881.html London Jan 26 An elderly British Sikh former post office operator has claimed that she faced discrimination due to her Asian heritage and was urged by the auditors to confess to stealing 30000 pounds Kuldeep Kaur Atwal 73 was accused of stealing the money over a period from July 1995 until November 1996 when Post Office auditors made a morning visit to the Coventry branch in 1997 Before her trial at Coventry Crown Court in 1997 Atwal then 46 was told by the auditors that her cultural background may have played a role in her criminality The Guardian newspaper reported on Thursday While she was cleared of all charges later Atwal claims it was suggested by the auditors that if she admitted to being at fault she may be able to avoid the harshest sanctions A mother of three Atwal said the auditors alleged comment had made her angry at the time but she had felt powerless to respond One of the auditors commented to me that It is quite common in your society that women come under pressure to take money on the side they dont tell the family Is someone putting pressure on you Atwal recounted He meant being an Asian woman the culture is such that the rest of the family puts pressure on the woman leading to theft I said Dont be silly While Atwal was declared not guilty due to lack of evidence the Post Office went on to demand that Atwal pay the money she had been falsely accused of stealing following which she had to sell off her branch for a fraction of its market value Last year the Post Office apologised after a document was discovered in which operators like Atwal were categorised as negroid types ChineseJapanese types and darkskinned European types After this many individuals came forward alleging that racial biases influenced their prosecutions with one claiming that he was told by a Post Office staff member that all Indians are doing it Looking back I feel like saying they were bullies to be honest I lost my job and everybody judges you The Post Office was so strong everybody feared them Atwal told The Guardian I felt for my husband more than anything with all the staff all the students looking down on him she said The accounting system that Atwal used in her branch in Coventry was Capture a predecessor to the infamous Horizon IT software whose malfunctioning led to the wrongful conviction of more than 900 people Internal documents seen by the Guardian suggested the Post Office had also been aware of serious problems with Capture prompting a series of software upgrades What makes me angry is that the Post Office knew all along about the problems with Horizon and now they are not coming clean about the preHorizon system The Capture system was full of bugs and errors Labour MP Kevan Jones who has been prominent in the campaign for the post office operators told The Guardian Meanwhile Londons Metropolitan Police has opened a new investigation into the Post Office over potential fraud offences The UK government said earlier this month that it will introduce new legislation to overturn the convictions of hundreds of post office managers who were wrongly convicted of theft and fraud IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-sikh-says-was-urged-to-confess-post-office-theft-due-to-her-asian-descent-512881.html Fri, 26 Jan 2024 16:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-ex-lawyer-gets-jail-for-misappropriating-nearly-358k-in-singapore-512668.html Singapore Jan 26 An Indianorigin former lawyer has been sentenced to three years and 11 months in jail in Singapore for misappropriating nearly SG480000 approx US358k of clients money Gurdaib Singh Pala Singh 70 who used to be a lawyer at Gurdaib Cheong amp Partners GCP continued to act as an advocate and solicitor even after he was struck off the rolls in 2018 He pleaded guilty last year to two counts of criminal breach of trust involving nearly SG459000 and an offence under the Legal Profession Act The Straits Times reported on Thursday A third criminal breach of trust charge involving another SG21000 was considered during sentencing Singhs bail was set at SG100000 on Thursday and he is expected to surrender himself at the State Courts on February 15 to begin serving his sentence The Straits Times earlier reported that a man named Zulkifli Osman engaged GCPs services for the sale of his late fathers flat in December 2010 which was sold in 2011 and the firm received sale proceeds of more than SG356000 Between Zulkifli and Singh it was agreed that out of that sum the formers brother was to receive SG13887650 Following this Zulkifli deposited SG138876 into GCPs client account to be held in escrow as his brothers share of the sales proceeds on December 15 2011 However between December 20 2011 and May 3 2012 Singh misappropriated Zulkiflis funds in GCPs client account by issuing cheques to pay for other matters such as the firms office expenses Zulkifli made three requests to Singh between August 2012 and July 2014 to withdraw a portion of the money unaware that it had been fully expended Singh then disbursed a total of SG10156 to Zulkifli by using money in the GCP client account that belonged to the firms other clients In June 2015 Zulkifli asked Singh to withdraw the remaining SG128720 from the funds but the offender failed to disburse any money to him After being struck off the company rolls in 2018 Singh agreed to represent a man in divorce proceedings The man unaware that Singh had been struck off the rolls paid him SG1750 between September 7 and 27 2019 In 2020 the man asked Singh for a full refund as he no longer wanted his services following which the offender returned S1000 to him IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-ex-lawyer-gets-jail-for-misappropriating-nearly-358k-in-singapore-512668.html Fri, 26 Jan 2024 08:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-faces-trial-in-spain-after-taliban-joke-to-blow-up-plane-512701.html London Jan 25 BritishIndian student Aditya Verma is facing trial in Spain after he was accused of public disorder for sending a message joking about blowing up a plane in which he was travelling along with his friends Verma a student of economics at Bath University was on his way to the island of Menorca with friends in July 2022 when he made the remarks on Snapchat claiming that he is a member of the Taliban the BBC reported On my way to blow up the plane Im a member of the Taliban the message sent before Verma departed Gatwick airport read A court in Madrid heard on Monday that the message was picked up by the UK security services on Gatwicks WiFi network who then alerted Spanish authorities following which two Spanish F18 fighter jets were sent to flank the aircraft with Verma onboard Verma who was 18 at the time was arrested and kept in a police cell for two days and was later released on bail the court was told Back in the UK he was questioned by the British intelligence agencies MI5 and MI6 before he returned home to Orpington Kent Appearing in court Verma said the message was a joke in a private group setting and that the intention was never to cause public distress or cause public harm It was just sent to my friends I was travelling with on the day Since school its been a joke because of my features It was just to make people laugh he was quoted as saying in the BBC report While Verma is not facing terrorism charges or a possible jail term he could be fined up to 22500 euros 19300 pounds if found guilty The Spanish defense ministry is demanding 95000 euros after two Spanish Air Force jets were scrambled to follow Verma A verdict on Vermas case is expected in the next few days the court told BBC IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-faces-trial-in-spain-after-taliban-joke-to-blow-up-plane-512701.html Fri, 26 Jan 2024 10:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-charged-with-kicking-cop-during-arrest-in-singapore-512284.html Singapore Jan 25 A 49yearold Indianorigin man in Singapore has been charged with assaulting a public servant an offence for which he can be jailed for up to seven years and fined or caned Haridas Ryan Peter allegedly kicked a 22yearold special constable sergeant on his hip and right hand on January 23 at a carpark in Sembawang a residential town located in the north of Singapore Police said they were alerted to a case of assault at Block 462 in the same neighbourhood at around 915 pm that day The Straits Times reported on Thursday Following polices arrival at the scene Haridas barricaded himself in a flat with his 52yearold girlfriend Officers from the Crisis Negotiation Unit Special Operations Command and the Singapore Civil Defence Force also responded to the incident as Haridas might have posed a danger to himself and others After negotiation by CNU officers the police saw an opportunity to breach the unit when they observed that the woman went to the toilet thus buying them time to ensure her safety Police said in a statement After cops managed to enter the flat Haridas allegedly kicked a police officer during his arrest His case has been adjourned to February 8 IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-charged-with-kicking-cop-during-arrest-in-singapore-512284.html Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-teens-killer-will-not-face-murder-trial-due-to-mental-illness-512184.html London Jan 25 A 32yearold man who stabbed BritishIndian teen Grace OMalleyKumar and two others to death in the UK last year will not face trial for murder after his plea of guilty to manslaughter was accepted as victims families grieved the loss of lives Valdo Calocane a dual GuineaBissauPortuguese national killed 19yearold students Grace and Barnaby Webber and 65yearold school caretaker Ian Coates during an incident near Nottingham University on June 13 2023 During Tuesdays hearing at the Nottingham Crown Court prosecutors accepted Calocanes guilty plea based on diminished responsibility after psychiatrists said he suffered paranoid schizophrenia The decision was made as Calocane suffered from serious mental illness a judge was told Also known as Adam Mendes Calocane who believed MI6 was spying on him denied three counts of murder but admitted three counts of manslaughter based on diminished responsibility in November 2023 Prosecutor Karim Khalil KC told Nottingham Crown Court on Tuesday that the victims families who had hoped for a murder trial were consulted before deciding to accept the pleas entered by Calocane The court was told that Grace showed incredible bravery by attempting to fight off Calocane and save Webber as they were attacked while walking home from a night out Calling Calocane a cold cowardly and calculating killer Graces father Sanjoy Kumar praised his daughter who heroically and valiantly fought you Like a hero she put herself in harms way The Guardian reported You deserve the harshest punishment available A clear message must be sent out to the families in our country They must be reassured that their children are safe and that something like this never happens again Kumar told the court Calocane will also be sentenced for three counts of attempted murder after he tried to run over three pedestrians with a van on the same day he killed Grace Webber and Coates local media reports said The CCTV footage played in court showed Calocane walking calmly just hours before the attack carrying a rucksack and a holdall later found to contain multiple weapons After the first killings Calocane called his brother and told him to take the family out of the country When asked Are you going to do something stupid Calocane replied Its already done According to witnesses they heard an awful bloodcurdling scream and saw Grace crawl towards the houses on the opposite side of the road shouting for help The Guardian reported that Calocane had been receiving mental health treatment since 2020 which included being treated with antipsychotic medication Prosecutor Khalil said Calocane who came to the UK at the age of 16 with his family in 2007 and earned a mechanical engineering degree at Nottingham University actively concealed symptoms of psychosis and refused to take his medication In 2020 he was admitted to the hospital after breaking down two doors to different apartments in his block and a year after he assaulted a police officer during a search of his flat in which a bag of unused medication was found Calocane who is now scheduled for a twoday sentencing hearing may face life imprisonment or a hospital order IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/british-indian-teens-killer-will-not-face-murder-trial-due-to-mental-illness-512184.html Thu, 25 Jan 2024 10:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/four-indians-dead-in-australia-beach-tragedy-512216.html Melbourne Jan 25 A 43yearold Indian national and three of her relatives all in their 20s died on Phillip Island in one of the worst drowning tragedies in the Australian state of Victoria since 2005 local media reports said Offduty lifeguards surfing at the unpatrolled Forrest Caves beach were the first to rush to the aid of the struggling group on Wednesday at around 330 pm The Age reported They found three women and a man unresponsive after being pulled from the water and were given immediate CPR by the emergency services who had rushed to the site Three of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene while a woman was airlifted to The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne in critical condition where she succumbed to her injuries Victoria Police Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner Karen Nyholm told The Age that they were from Clyde in Melbournes southeastern suburbs and that the 43yearold was an international visitor The Indian High Commission condoled the deaths as a heartbreaking tragedy and assured all assistance to the family and friends of the deceased Heartbreaking tragedy in Australia 4 Indians lost their lives in a drowning incident at Phillip Island Victoria Deepest condolences to families of the victims cgimelbourne team is in touch with friends of the deceased for all necessary assistance the Indian High Commission said in a social media post on X on Thursday We all worked tirelessly to help those people Ambulance Victoria manager Paul James told The Age Victoria Police said investigation is on as to what led to the tragedy even as emergency services warned against swimming at the relatively remote Forrest Caves beach a spot best suited to surfers I couldnt define the worst incident ever but I certainly say this was horrific Nyholm told The Age Liam Krige Life Saving Victorias general manager of operations said at a press conference that 19 people had drowned in Victoria since December 1 two more than the same period last summer Behind each one of these drownings there is a family theres a brother theres a sister theres a mother theres a daughter he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/four-indians-dead-in-australia-beach-tragedy-512216.html Thu, 25 Jan 2024 11:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-ex-pfizer-employee-convicted-of-insider-trading-511818.html New York Jan 24 An IndianAmerican former Pfizer employee in New Jersey has been convicted of insider trading after he stole information from his employer and used it to reap illicit profits in the stock market Amit Dagar 44 who assisted in managing the data analysis in certain clinical drug trials at Pfizer was found guilty following a twoweek trial last week the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York announced A resident of Hillsborough he was convicted of one count of securities fraud which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison Dagar participated in an insider trading scheme in November 2021 to reap illicit profits from options trading based on inside information about the results of clinical trials of Paxlovid according to court proceedings and filings On November 4 2021 he learned that a Pfizer trial of the drug Paxlovid a medicine used to treat mild to severe COVID19 infections had produced positive results While the results remained confidential Dagar purchased shortdated outofthemoney Pfizer call options that expired days and weeks later He also tipped a close friend who also purchased shortdated outofthemoney Pfizer call options A day after Pfizer publicly released the results of its Paxlovid study before the market opening That same day following the publication of the positive results Pfizers stock price increased substantially opening and eventually closing more than 10 per cent higher than the prior days closing price In the following weeks Dagar sold his Pfizer call options for profits of more than US270000 As the jurys swift verdict shows the proof at trial was overwhelming that Amit Dagar stole information about Paxlovid from his employer Pfizer and used that illegal edge to profit in the stock market US Attorney Damian Williams said Combatting the corruption of our financial markets continues to be a top priority of this Office Wouldbe insider traders tempted by the prospect of easy money should know that the Southern District of New York is watching well catch you and well make sure you pay the price for violating the law Williams added This case was handled by the Offices Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force and the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge at a later date IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-american-ex-pfizer-employee-convicted-of-insider-trading-511818.html Wed, 24 Jan 2024 13:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/this-race-is-far-from-over-nikki-haley-after-new-hampshire-loss-511684.html Washington Jan 24 IndianAmerican Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley said that the race for White House 2024 was far from over after her former boss Donald Trump won the New Hampshire primary solidifying his position as GOPs likely nominee With 36 per cent of the estimated vote counted the former president registered 536 per cent support against Haleys 453 per cent in the critical early state contest Tuesday the New York Post reported New Hampshire is first in the nation it is not last in the nation Haley the twotime former South Carolina governor told supporters in Concord minutes after Trumps projected victory by the local media Congratulating Trump for the victory Haley said that he earned it but added that this race is far from over There are dozens of states left to go And the next one is my sweet state of South Carolina Trump who doesnt consider Haley as a threat leads her by about 30 points in South Carolina ahead of the February 24 primary in the state according to a polling average by RealClearPolitics Calls among Trumps supporters grew louder for the former ambassador to the United Nations to drop out of the race especially after the former presidents victories in the states of Iowa and New Hampshire Haley who was endorsed by Republican Governor Chris Sununu and 2022 GOP Senate candidate Don Bolduc went on to blast both Trump and President Biden With Donald Trump you have one bout of chaos after another This court case that controversy this tweet that senior moment You cant fix Joe Bidens chaos with Republican chaos Haley said Meanwhile Trump celebrated his win with a victory speech in Nashua slamming Haley without naming her Shes doing a speech like she won She didnt win she lost Trump said IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/this-race-is-far-from-over-nikki-haley-after-new-hampshire-loss-511684.html Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-couple-convicted-in-us-for-forced-labour-physical-abuse-of-kin-511441.html New York Jan 23 An Indianorigin Sikh couple has been convicted in the US for forcing a relative to work at their store for long hours subjecting him to physical abuse and threats for years and confiscating his immigration documents Harmanpreet Singh 30 and Kulbir Kaur 43 from Richmond Virginia enticed the victim then a minor to travel to the United States with false promises of helping him enrol in a school After he arrived in the US they took the victims immigration documents and immediately put him to work a Department of Justice release stated on Monday On three different occasions they threatened the victim Singhs cousin with a revolver for trying to take a day off and for trying to leave Following a twoweeklong trial a federal jury in the Eastern District of Virginia on Friday convicted the couple of committing forced labour harbouring for financial gain and document servitude in connection with their operation of a gas station and convenience store in North Chesterfield The evidence presented at trial demonstrated that between March 2018 and May 2021 the couple forced the victim to provide labour and services at their store including working as the cashier preparing food cleaning and managing store records Singh and Kaur used various coercive means including confiscating the victims immigration documents and subjecting him to physical abuse threats of force and other serious harm and at times degrading living conditions to compel him to work extensive hours for minimal pay These defendants engaged in an egregious baitandswitch luring the victim with false promises of an education in the United States and instead subjecting him to gruelling hours degrading living conditions and a litany of mental and physical abuse said US Attorney Jessica D Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia The jury heard that the victim was left at the store to sleep in a back office for days at a time on multiple occasions The couple limited his access to food refused to provide medical care or education and used surveillance equipment to monitor the victim both at the store and in their home In addition they refused his requests to return to India and made him overstay his visa The evidence further showed that Singh pulled the victims hair slapped and kicked him when he requested his immigration documents back and tried to leave The defendants exploited the victims trust and his desire to attend school in the United States and then inflicted physical and mental abuse against him all so they could keep him working for their profit said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division Human trafficking is a disgraceful and unacceptable crime and this verdict should send the very clear message that the Justice Department will investigate and vigorously prosecute these cases to hold human traffickers accountable and bring justice to their victims Singh and Kaur face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison up to five years of supervised release a fine of up to 250000 and mandatory restitution for the forced labour charge The couples sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 8 and a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering US Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-couple-convicted-in-us-for-forced-labour-physical-abuse-of-kin-511441.html Tue, 23 Jan 2024 16:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/singapores-top-3-ministers-accused-of-graft-in-2023-all-of-indian-origin-511194.html New Delhi Jan 23 Lauded as the least corrupt country in Asia Singapore saw three Indianorigin Ministers face graft charges in the year 2023 alone the same year an economist of Indian descent took over the reins of the citystate as its ninth President While two of them Vivian Balakrishnan and K Shanmugam were cleared of all charges as the year drew to a close S Iswarans pretrial conference is scheduled for March 1 and he is presently out on bail of SG800000 The trio belongs to the ruling Peoples Action Party PAP which has been in power since 1959 and holds a sizeable majority in the countrys Parliament With the next election due in November 2025 political experts say that the graft allegations could hit PAPs support base in a country that is ranked the fifthleast corrupt country in Transparency Internationals latest Corruption Perceptions Index Over the years the government has justified sevenfigure ministerial paychecks to keep out corruption According to a Bloomberg report the countrys public officers are among the worlds bestpaid with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong earning a total compensation of about S22 million 17 million per annum The country witnessed its last corruption case in the year 1986 which saw Teh Cheang Wan a national development minister being probed for allegedly accepting kickbacks The case of Balakrishnan and Shanmugam Home Affairs and Law Minister Shanmugam and Foreign Minister Balakrishnan were accused of corruption relating to the rental of their colonialera bungalows in the citystate The 26 and 31 Ridout Road are two 100yearold bungalows in the Ridout Park area that have been rented to the two Ministers In May last year opposition Reform Party Chief Kenneth Jeyaretnam questioned if the two Ministers were paying less than the fair market value for their rental of the twostate properties It was debated in the Parliament in July following a Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau CPIB investigation and a review by senior Minister Teo Chee Hean The CPIB said in its report that it did not find any wrongdoing on the part of Shanmugam and Balakrishnan while Teos review found that processes had been followed Even as they were cleared Lee Hsien Yang the brother of Singapores Prime Minister wrote posts on Facebook in July accusing them of corruption over the rental of their bungalows Yang accused the ministers of acting for personal gains by having the Singapore Land Authority SLA give them preferential treatment by illegally felling trees without approval and also having SLA pay for renovations to the bungalows The ministers sued Yang currently in selfexile overseas for defamation with the judgment being granted in their favour The case of innocent Iswaran As per a New York Times report Transport Minister S Iswaran was among the 4G or fourth generation leaders who were considered with Prime Minister Lee hoping to step down following PAPs leadership transition within 10 months But Iswaran was arrested on July 11 last year in one of the most highprofile cases involving a minister in the Asian financial hub in nearly four decades The 61yearold faces 27 charges of offences in a corruption probe which included receiving tickets from Ong Beng Seng who is credited with bringing F1 racing to Singapore While pleading not guilty to all the charges Iswaran said he was innocent and resigned from the Cabinet as a Member of Parliament and as a member of the ruling PAP According to the CPIB Iswaran has allegedly obtained kickbacks worth SG38434098 286181 from Ong partly to advance the property tycoons business interests These ranged from tickets to shows private plane rides hotel stays football matches and various editions of the Singapore F1 Grand Prix If convicted he could be fined up to SG100000 or face seven years in prison Indian diaspora in Singapore Indians make up around nine per cent of the Singapore population and as of 2024 their estimated population is seven lakh According to the latest 2020 Census 573 per cent of Singapores Indian population declared themselves as Hindus mostly Tamils Excluding Iswaran who recently resigned the present cabinet now includes four Indianorigin ministers Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam and Indranee Rajah serving as Second Minister for Finance as well as Second Minister for National Development Janil Puthucheary serves as a senior Minister of State for the Ministries of Transport and Communications and Information Pritam Singh the SecretaryGeneral of the Workers Party the largest opposition party in Singapore is also of Indian descent The penalty for the corrupt In Singapore graft cases are mostly handled by the CPIB or Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau a government agency that investigates and prosecutes corruption in the public and private sectors The agency reports directly to the Prime Minister enabling the CPIB to operate independently A person convicted for corruption offences under either Section 5 or 6 of the Prevention of Corruption Act faces a fine not exceeding SG100000 or a custodial sentence of up to five years or both for each charge for which he is convicted Meenakshi Iyer can be contacted at meenakshiiiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/singapores-top-3-ministers-accused-of-graft-in-2023-all-of-indian-origin-511194.html Tue, 23 Jan 2024 05:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-gets-more-than-7-years-in-jail-for-duping-people-in-singapore-510984.html Singapore Jan 22 A 53yearold Indianorigin man was sentenced to seven years and four months jail on Monday for cheating 20 people including his family friends and acquaintances of SG 25 million 18 million in Singapore Murali Krishnan Naidu was earlier convicted of 17 counts of cheating linked to nine people and another 43 charges including those involving the remaining victims were considered during sentencing The Straits Times reported In an investment scam between 2008 and 2013 Naidu told victims that their money would be invested in a money lending business set up by his wife According to court documents most of the victims had drawn from their retirement savings to fund the investments The prosecution said that in August 2006 Naidus wife was the sole proprietor of a licensed money lending company known as San Tee Credit STC where he was a manager Having worked with a money lending company before Naidu knew that it was common for such companies to borrow cash from investors through investment agreements A 69yearold woman who was one of Naidus victims had entered into six investment agreements totalling SG335000 with STC having funded the investments with her life savings According to the prosecution Naidu made false representations to the victims by saying their monies would be invested in STCs money lending business The victims were promised returns between 25 per cent and 3 per cent that would be paid out monthly along with a repayment of their investment capital one year from the date of the investment agreement Naidu then induced his victims to hand over their money but completely stopped paying dividends to them in early 2013 and to date it is unclear how he utilised the victims money the court was told Screenings by the Registry of Moneylenders showed STC had not concluded any moneylending transactions between 2011 and 2013 Despite the absence of any business activities undertaken by STC the accused continued to pay the requisite fees to renew STCs moneylending licence with the Registry of Moneylenders This fortified the accuseds representations that STC was a legitimate and live money lending business the prosecutors informed the court The court documents did not say what happened to STC after 2013 and neither did they disclose how the offences came to light which led to Naidus charging in the court in 2019 Court documents also did not disclose how the offences came to light The prosecutors had urged the court to sentence him to at least seven years and 10 months jail stating that his offences had involved a high degree of premeditation and planning For each count of cheating an offender can be jailed for up to 10 years and fined in Singapore IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/indian-origin-man-gets-more-than-7-years-in-jail-for-duping-people-in-singapore-510984.html Mon, 22 Jan 2024 23:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/brampton-mayor-suggests-changes-in-foreign-student-visa-to-tackle-housing-crisis-510964.html Toronto Jan 22 Calling for a cap on the number of international students arriving in Canada Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown announced that the City Council has unanimously passed a motion urging the government to require study visas to include an accommodation address The move comes in the wake of an exacerbating housing crisis leading to unaffordable rentals that are forcing students many of them Indians to live in unsafe and illegal conditions in the country We cant have international students living in 3rd world conditions while being used as an ATM for the college they are going to Brown whose city has seen a large influx of international students wrote in a post on X on Saturday Brampton City Council has unanimously passed a motion calling on the federal government to require international student visas to include a housing address consistent with local by laws as a component of the approvals process Brown said According to the Mayor the current system allows international students to be routinely taken advantage of and is exacerbating the housing crisis Requiring a housing address as part of the visa approval process would ensure every college has an appropriate housing plan and spur new student housing construction Brown wrote According to official figures the number of international students in Canada has crossed the one million mark just as the country mulls capping their arrival There were more than 800000 international students in Canada in 2022 and the federal government has said previously it expected more than 900000 in 2023 As the housing crisis has been blamed on an increase in migrants and international students Brown said it is the immigration system that needs to be fixed while supporting the arrival of international students in Canada Enough is enough Its time to clean up this broken federal program he said In a letter to the federal immigration and housing ministers last month Brown also called on the government for a more restrictive visa policy according to The Globe and Mail newspaper This included capping student permits issued annually and prioritising postsecondary institutions that have a housing plan Data demonstrates Ontario has more international students than all other provinces and territories combined and a substantial portion of new international students settle in Brampton where they face issues such as housing affordability and as a result insufficient living conditions the letter read These changes to the international student program will help alleviate the pressures international students face and municipalities like Brampton who carry the responsibility of creating conditions to help international students thrive Brown told The Globe that many students reside in his community while attending colleges hundreds of kilometres away Its a massive resource drain The city gets no compensation for the fact that theyre not paying taxes Theyre living quite often 16 people in a basement apartment Brown said Earlier this month Immigration Minister Marc Miller said he will closely analyse the number of international students and temporary residents entering into the country with the government facing backlash over housing affordability and rising cost of living Further he called on the provinces to stop licensing substandard private colleges that he says churn foreign graduates out like puppy mills Brown also mentioned in his letter that public and private colleges have significantly increased international enrollment to up their profit over the past 10 years but have added little to no new oncampus housing According to economist Mike Moffatt Ontario added 423000 nonpermanent residents in the past two years compared with around 417000 in the past 20 years with the population boom linked to international students IANS https://dailyworld.in/diaspora/brampton-mayor-suggests-changes-in-foreign-student-visa-to-tackle-housing-crisis-510964.html Mon, 22 Jan 2024 23:06:00 +0530