Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva rebuked US President Donald Trump, saying he “should not meddle” in Brazil’s internal affairs.
“We need to know how to give people what they need: affection, comfort and treat them with love. That is the difference between governing and caring, because the right word is not governing, but caring,” he said at an event in Sorocaba, a city in the state of Sao Paulo on Thursday, Aug 21, Xinhua News Agency reported. Lula added that he wants to care for Brazil, and Trump should not meddle in the country’s affairs.
Stressing that the defence of sovereignty goes beyond protecting borders and resources, Lula said, “It is about protecting the people. That is what the sovereignty of a country is all about. That is why we are not afraid of being shouted at. In fact, we are polite. I don’t yell at anyone.”
Last week, Trump called Brazil a “horrible trading partner,” saying the trial against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was a “political execution.”
On July 30, the Trump administration announced plans to impose tariffs of up to 50 per cent on Brazilian exports and sanction Alexandre de Moraes, a justice of Brazil’s Federal Supreme Court. Moraes is currently overseeing the case against Bolsonaro, who is accused of attempting to seize power following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election.
Earlier on August 14, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Brazil will not bow down to the United States, countering the claim by his US counterpart Donald Trump that Brazil is “a horrible trading partner.”
“It is a lie when the US President says that Brazil is a bad trading partner. Brazil is good, it just won’t bow down to the US government,” Lula said during an event in the northeast state of Pernambuco. Earlier, Trump said Brazil is a “horrible trading partner,” calling the trial against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro a “political execution.”
Month: August 2025
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Brazilian president rebukes Trump for ‘meddling’ in internal affairs
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Mumbai-born woman on Fortune’s ‘100 most powerful’ list alongside Mukesh Ambani, Sundar Pichai
NEW YORK (TIP): On Fortune’s list of the 100 Most Powerful People in Business, a Mumbai-born woman rubs shoulders with the likes of Mark Zuckerberg and Mukesh Ambani. Reshma Kewalramani may not be as well-known as her fellow Indian-origin executives like Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella, but she has quietly made history as the first woman CEO to lead a major US biotechnology company. Reshma Kewalramani is the Indian-origin CEO of Vertex Pharmaceuticals – a company valued at $110 billion. She is the first female CEO of a large US biotech company, having been appointed to the post in April 2020.
Kewalramani was born in Mumbai and moved to the US with her family when she was 11.
She started her career as a physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. After a few years of working as a doctor, she entered the biopharma sector, holding several leadership positions in research and development over a career spanning several years.
She joined Vertex Pharmaceuticals in 2017 and was appointed Chief Medical Officer a year later. In 2020, she became the CEO of the company and also sits on its board.
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Indian-origin 21-year-old Krishangi Meshram qualifies as England & Wales’ youngest solicitor
LONDON (TIP): Indian-origin Krishangi Meshram has made legal history, becoming one of the youngest solicitors in England and Wales at the age of just 21, following an extraordinary academic and professional journey that began when she was only 15 years old.
Raised in West Bengal and currently residing in the United Arab Emirates, Krishangi embarked on her legal education through The Open University (OU), taking advantage of the institution’s flexible learning model to begin her LLB studies well ahead of the typical university age.
By 18, she had already earned a First-Class Honors Degree in Law, setting the stage for her rapid progression into the legal profession.
“I’m incredibly thankful that The Open University gave me the opportunity to begin my LLB studies at the age of 15,” she said.
“It was during my studies that I not only laid the academic foundation for my legal career but also discovered a deep and lasting passion for the law.”
Krishangi’s unique path was shaped in part by her desire to stay close to her family while pursuing higher education.
With the OU’s open-entry policy, she was able to begin her degree without A-levels, continue living at home, and travel with her family without compromising her academic goals.
After completing her undergraduate degree, she went on to pursue postgraduate legal studies and gained two years of qualifying work experience during an internship at a prestigious law firm in Singapore. Her exposure to international legal practice further deepened her interest in the field.
Krishangi officially graduated from The Open University in 2022 and attended her graduation ceremony in Manchester in late 2024. -
Indo-British Ashvir Singh Johal becomes first Sikh manager of a football club in England
LONDON (TIP): Leicester-born Ashvir Singh Johal on Tuesday, August 19, became the first British Sikh manager of a professional England football club (FC) as he took charge of Morecambe FC in Lancashire, north-west England.
Johal (30) has spent 10 years at Leicester City football club, coaching younger players in the academy. His new appointment comes after he completed the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Pro License with the Football Association (FA), one of the youngest to acquire the highest qualification in management and football coaching, back in June.
“I think the fans can expect someone who is extremely hard-working and really proud to represent them and their town, make sure they have got a team that really represents them on the pitch,” said Johal, in his first interview conducted by the club following his appointment.
“Every single day that I am here, that’s my responsibility and it’s something I’ll make sure I achieve and make sure we don’t leave a day when we are not working towards that objective. I think the immediate priority is going to be to identify the players that we need in this building to make sure Morecambe Football Club this season can perform well in the National League. For me, that’s the priority,” he said.
Johal’s appointment is pitched as a new era for the Shrimps, as Morecambe FC is known, as it started a new journey under fresh ownership.
Morecambe FC hailed Johal’s “excellent reputation” as a forward-thinking coach and leader, bringing a wealth of experience in player development, tactical innovation, and building high-performance cultures.
“His appointment marks an exciting new era for the Shrimps as the Club continues its journey under fresh ownership and renewed ambition,” the club said.
The new manager announcement comes days after the approval of the club’s takeover by the consortium Panjab Warriors after its previous boss was sacked.
“This is more than a business venture; it’s a commitment to the fans, the town, and the future of Morecambe FC,” said Gurpreet Singh of Panjab Warriors, which aims to bring diversity into English football.
“Our aim is to build upon the club’s rich heritage, ensuring stability and fostering unity across all parts of the community… We believe Morecambe FC’s best days lie ahead, but actions speak louder than words – by working together with the board, the Shrimps Trust and the wider fan base, we will look to deliver consistently, listen deeply, and put supporters at the heart of everything we do,” he said.
Panjab Warriors, a London-based global sports investment firm, said it was making a long-term commitment to the club out of a genuine love for the game.
It came after the club was at risk of closure and was suspended by the National League due to financial problems that saw players, staff, creditors and taxes go unpaid. Its new manager has said his target is to make sure Morecambe is successful as a club that doesn’t just survive in the National League but thrives. The club has said its suspension from the National League had been lifted and that outstanding wages would be paid to employees this week, as well as money owed to other football creditors and taxes. -
Indian American Arjit Singh wins SBB Research Group Foundation STEM Scholarship
BALTIMORE (TIP): Arjit Singh, an Indian American neuroscience student at Johns Hopkins University has been named a recipient of SBB Research Group Foundation’s $2,500 STEM scholarship.
The award empowers students to create value for society by pursuing higher learning through interdisciplinary combinations of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), according to a media release.
In addition to his undergraduate studies, Singh conducts research at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, focused on improving surgical outcomes for brain tumor patients. He is also a Child Live Volunteer, which allows him to support children and families as they deal with a hospital stay.
“Arjit is already so committed to his community and the well-being of patients. We are excited to see what he does as he continues in his studies,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation.
The SBB Research Group Foundation is a nonprofit that furthers the philanthropic mission of SBB Research Group LLC (SBBRG), a Chicago-based investment management firm led by Sam Barnett and Matt Aven, according to a foundation release. The Foundation sponsors the SBB Research Group Foundation STEM Scholarship, supporting students pursuing STEM degrees. In addition to its scholarship program, the Foundation provides grants to support ambitious organizations solving unmet needs with thoughtful, long-term strategies.
Committed to contributing to the community, both at the local and global level, the Foundation is the presenting sponsor of the annual Greater Chicago K-12 Chess Championship and is a partner of the Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center, the World Wildlife Fund in the Northern Great Plains, Surge for Water in Uganda, and many other organizations. To date, the Foundation has supported over 63 charitable organizations serving critical areas such as human services and education. -
Apple Appoints Indian-Origin Executive Sabih Khan as COO
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (TIP): Tech giant Apple has appointed Sabih Khan, an Indian-origin executive, as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Khan, who has been with Apple since 1995, played a key role in building and scaling the company’s global supply chain. His annual compensation package is reportedly around $23 million, reflecting his critical role in Apple’s operations.
Born in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, and raised in Singapore, Sabih holds degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University and an MBA from Duke University. He previously served as Apple’s Senior Vice President of Operations and was instrumental in advancing Apple’s environmental and supply chain innovations. Khan takes over the COO role at a pivotal time as Apple continues to expand its manufacturing base in India and diversify beyond China.
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Remembering Rajiv Khanna: A Gentleman, A Guide, A Friend
The attorney and financial advisor who built communities of learning and friendship leaves behind a legacy of wisdom and grace.
By Prof. Indrajit S Saluja The sudden passing of Rajiv Khanna on August 19 has cast a long shadow of grief over his friends, colleagues, and the professional communities he nurtured for decades. Rajiv was more than a successful attorney and financial sector advisor—he was a mentor, a leader, and above all, a man of remarkable gentleness and dignity. His loss is felt not just as the departure of an accomplished professional, but as the silencing of a voice that inspired and uplifted countless others.
Rajiv Khanna built a reputation as one of the finest minds in the financial and legal world. As a financial sector advisor, he guided businesses, professionals, and entrepreneurs through the complexities of global markets. As an attorney, he brought precision and clarity to matters that often seemed impenetrable to others. His counsel was valued not only because of his expertise, but because of the integrity with which he offered it.
What truly set him apart, however, was his willingness to share his knowledge. Rajiv did not guard his wisdom as a private possession; he believed it should be used to empower others. This conviction found its fullest expression in his leadership of a prominent chamber of business in New York.
As President of the chamber, Rajiv transformed it into one of the most vibrant platforms for business professionals in the city. The chamber’s events became fixtures on the calendars of entrepreneurs, lawyers, bankers, and young professionals eager to learn from him.
People came to these meetings not only to network but to listen—to hear Rajiv’s insights on financial success, economic trends, and professional growth. He had a gift for demystifying complexity, for distilling the intimidating language of finance into mantras of success that anyone could understand and apply. His speeches were practical, insightful, and deeply motivating. For many attendees, these gatherings became turning points in their professional journeys.
I first encountered Rajiv nearly two decades ago, when my work in journalism brought me to one of the chamber’s events. At the time, I expected only to report on the proceedings. What I did not expect was to meet a man whose intellect was matched equally by his charm and humility. Our acquaintance quickly grew into a friendship that I valued immensely.
Rajiv was one of the most refined individuals I have ever met. He carried himself with a suaveness that was natural, never forced. His gentle manners, his ability to listen deeply, and his quiet dignity made him a person others gravitated toward. Whether in a professional gathering or a private conversation, he had the rare gift of making those around him feel both respected and enriched.
Despite his professional triumphs, Rajiv’s life was not untouched by sorrow. A few years ago, he lost his beloved wife, a loss that left a deep wound. Those of us who were close to him noticed the change. His health began to falter, and although he never openly complained, his friends often worried for him. His grief was visible, even in his silence.
Yet he bore this personal tragedy with the same quiet resilience that characterized his entire life. He continued to engage with friends, colleagues, and the chamber, even when his energy was waning. He never withdrew from those who depended on him, never turned away from offering his guidance and support.
That is why his sudden passing feels so shocking. He was on vacation—on a break meant to restore him—when fate struck. None of us imagined that Rajiv would leave us so quickly, so abruptly. For his friends and admirers, it feels as though autumn has arrived too soon this year, and with it, one of the most precious leaves has fallen from the tree of our lives.
The grief is profound, not only because of who Rajiv was, but because of the way he made others feel. His presence was reassuring, his words encouraging, his example inspiring. His loss is both personal and communal.
Rajiv Khanna’s life is best remembered not only for what he achieved, but for what he gave. He demonstrated that success is not measured solely by wealth or professional standing, but by the ability to uplift others. Through his work at the chamber, through his mentorship of young professionals, and through the kindness he extended to friends, Rajiv left behind a legacy that will endure.
He will be remembered as a professional of the highest caliber, a leader who built bridges of opportunity, and a friend whose gentleness touched many hearts. For those who had the privilege of knowing him, his memory will remain a source of guidance and inspiration.
As we bid farewell to Rajiv, we can only take solace in the thought that he has now been reunited with his beloved wife, and that he has found the peace that eluded him in his later years. For us, the grief will take time to soften, but the gratitude for having known him will remain forever.
Rest in peace, dear Rajiv. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
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AAPI Celebrates India’s Independence Day with Leadership Summit, Akshardham Visit, and India Day Parade in New York City
NEW YORK (TIP): “American Association of Physicians of Indian origin (AAPI) had a powerful weekend of celebration, service, and community, as we honored India’s 79th Independence Day in the heart of New York City,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, President of AAPI. “We were fortunate to be part of and led the ‘I Love My India Float Parade’ – Celebrating Our Heritage from Raipath to Times Square. Azadi Ke Rang, AAPI Ke Sang.”
To spread the message of health and wellness for all and salute India on the occasion of India’s Independence Day anniversary, leaders of AAPI marched at the India Day Parade in New York City on Sunday, August 17th, 2022. Applause from the crowds reached a crescendo as the colorfully decorated Float bearing AAPI’s name, symbol, and message of health and wellness to all rolled on in New York City on a bright Sunday afternoon.
AAPI Float in the Parade on Sunday, August 17. Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, President of AAPI along with several Executive Committee Members, Dr. Hetal Gor, Chair of AAPI BOT; Regional Directors, members of BOT from different parts of the country joined the over a hundred thousand fellow Indian Americans to be part of the largest India Day Parade, organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA).
Several AAPI leaders, including Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, Dr. Hetal Gor, Dr. Mehar Medavaram, President-Elect of AAPI; Dr. Krishan Kumar, Vice President of AAPI; Dr. Seema Arora, Secretary of AAPI; Dr. Anjali Gulati, and Sunita Polepalle, members of AAPI BOT, Dr. Avinash C. Gupta, Mid-Atlantic II Regional Director; Dr. Gautam Kamthan, President, YPS; and, Dr. Priyanka Kolli, President, MSRF were prominent among those who led the parade.
“What an extraordinary outpouring of love and pride we’ve witnessed this Independence Day,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty. “From coast to coast, your enthusiasm has lit up our celebrations with the spirit of unity, heritage, and hope. The overwhelming response to our events deeply moves us—each moment is a testament to the strength and vibrancy of our AAPI community.”
Standing on the Salute Stage with Parade Co-Grand Marshals, Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, along with Congressman Sri Thanedar (MI-13) and several FIA leaders, who led the 43rd Annual India Day Parade along Madison Avenue, Dr. Chakrabarty said, “Since its inception in 1982, AAPI has been at the forefront, representing a conglomeration of more than 125,000 practicing physicians in the United States, seeking to be the united voice for the physicians of Indian origin. Serving 1 in every 7 patients in the US, AAPI members care for millions of patients every day, while several of them have risen to hold high positions, shaping the policies and programs, and inventions that shape the landscape of healthcare in the US and around the world. Our participation at the Parade in New York City celebrating India’s 70th Independence Day is a testament to AAPI’s commitment to the Indian Diaspora, contributing to building stronger platforms for Indian-origin physicians in the US.”
Earlier, on Saturday, August 16th, AAPI organized a Press Conference and Leadership Retreat at the Indian Consulate – an exclusive dialogue with AAPI leaders and Corporate Leaders, eloquently moderated by Dr. Hetal Gor, AAPI BOT Chair.
In his brief remarks, Consul General of India, Honorable Binaya Srikanta Pradhan praised the achievements and contributions of Indian American Physicians. “AAPI is one of the strongest organizations in the United States. And an impactful organization,” he said. “In India, the decision makers and policy makers know about AAPI and what AAPI has done over the years, especially about the role being played in strengthening the Indo-US relationship.” He highlighted the many contributions and achievements of Indian American physicians and how India is emerging as the hub for medical technology, the pharmaceutical industry, and affordable health care through national Insurance schemes.
Panelists at the Retreat were: Anil Bansal, a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader, best known as the Founder and Chairman of Indus American Bank; Bhavdeep Singh, a seasoned business leader with a strong track record in healthcare, retail, and professional services; and, Parag Amin is a visionary entrepreneur, inventor, and technologist with decades of experience across technology, finance, real estate, retail, and hospitality.
Bansal, a visionary businessman, who owns commercial real estate across the U.S. and invests in numerous IT ventures, who is committed to community service, and a recipient of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman by the President of India in 2023, shared with the audience his growth trajectory in leadership and his deep commitment to the community.
Singh, the Founder & CEO of Global MedTeam, a healthcare workforce solutions firm focused on bridging international talent with U.S. healthcare providers to address critical staffing shortages, and a Founding Partner at Whitehawk Associates LLC, offering strategic counsel across sectors, shared with AAPI leaders his deep insights into what makes a leader strong and help grow one’s business endeavors.
Amin, President and Principal of Radiqal, a global tech company specializing in gaming, digital television, and interactive platforms, and oversees its Indian subsidiary, who co-manages multiple ventures including Radial Properties and the Mexican Post restaurant chain, in his address focused on how Innovations have shaped the global growth and India is today, the hub of new technologies and development.
The Panelists at the Leadership Retreat focused on the challenges faced in leadership, emphasizing the importance of finding creative solutions to overcome these difficulties. They highlighted that true leadership demands not just vision, but the creative resolve to transform obstacles into opportunities. The essence of effective leadership lies in empowering every member, cultivating unity, and fostering trust through transparency and credibility.
Dr. Hetal Gor, who organized and moderated the session, said, “The attendees greatly valued the panelists’ insights on effective leadership, resulting in a session extension from 90 to 150 minutes. Each speaker shared their unique leadership style, experiences across various projects, and how qualities like resilience and hard work contributed to their success. The panel provided global perspectives on entrepreneurship, strategies to launch ideas, secure government grants, and practical advice for physicians to broaden their expertise and improve financial literacy.” Dr. Gor expressed gratitude to AAPI President Amit Chakrabarty, the panelists, the Indian Consulate, Andaz for catering, and Kunal Lamba and Dr. Aarti Pandya for the entertainment.
Dr. Mehar Medavaram, President-Elect of AAPI, reflecting on the Retreat, said, “When leaders encourage free exchange of ideas and support bold solutions, they enable teams to rise together, motivated by the belief that empowered individuals drive collective success. It is this spirit of collaboration, resilience, and empowerment that shapes AAPI into a vibrant force for positive change, allowing each member to contribute their unique strengths to achieve ambitious goals.” She spoke about the four areas where AAPI is focused on: Education, Mentoring, Advocacy, and Community Service.
On the auspicious day of Janmasthami, August 16th, AAPI leaders participated in a pilgrimage, “Pathways to Peace – Akshardham Visit – A spiritual delegation experience.” The Akshardham Temple management graciously arranged a complimentary private tour of the temple, exclusively for AAPI. Pujya Yogananddas Swami and Pujya Nilkanthsevadas Swami, enshrined in the delegation, a core message: “Whatever we do, do it with purpose and good intentions!”
This special gesture reflects their deep respect for our community and the shared values of spirituality, service, and cultural heritage. This curated experience offered a serene and meaningful opportunity to explore the temple’s divine architecture, engage in sacred rituals, and deepen our collective connection to dharma and devotion.
On Friday, August 14th, AAPI leaders joined several community leaders for the “Tricolor Triumph Over Manhattan,” as the Empire State Building lit up in saffron, white & green.
On Sunday Evening, Aug. 17th, several AAPI leaders joined the FIA Dinner at the famous Cipriani Wall Street, wrapping up the weekend with elegance and unity.
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New York Durga Pooja at Times Square on October 1 & 2, 2025
NEW YORK (TIIP): For the first time ever, Times Square Durga Utsav Association is set to organize Durga Puja according to the Hindu lunar dates at New York’s iconic Times Square on October 1st and 2nd. This historic announcement was made by the organization’s Chief Advisor Mridul Pathak during a “Meet the Press” event held on the evening of August 10 at Jackson Heights, New York.
At the press conference held to mark the announcement of the first-ever Sharadiya Durga Utsav at Times Square, Chief Advisor Mridul Pathak, along with President Sasadhar Howlader, Vice President Kallol Basu, Secretary Nirupoma Saha, Treasurer Soumyabrata Dasgupta, and Advisory Committee Members Milon Awon and Nirmal Pal, addressed questions from the media. The event was anchored by Sriyanka Basak.
The Durga Puja will take place at Father Duffy Square (next to the red stairs) in Times Square, where the theme and pandal are being designed by pioneers of theme pujas from Kolkata. The ambiance will aim to recreate the festive spirit of Maddox Square in Kolkata and Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka right in the heart of New York.
A specially crafted idol of Goddess Durga by renowned Kumartuli artisan Pradip Rudra Paul is on its way from Kolkata. The two-day celebration will include traditional rituals such as Sindoor Khela, Dhunuchi Naach, and other Navratri festivities, alongside live performances by top artists from Kolkata and Dhaka.
This international Durga Utsav will bring together Bengalis from around the world, and the event will be broadcast live globally. The festival is open to all and aims to celebrate and share Bengali cultural heritage with a global audience.
At the press conference, various organizations and individuals, including CAB (the organizers of the North America Bengali Conference) and Vedanta Society of Bangladesh, expressed their support and announced their collaboration with the Times Square Durga Utsav.
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Community Comes Together for Blood Donation Camp at AsaMai Temple
Blood Donors: Gary S. Sikka, Ajai Vir Sondhi, Deepak Dhiman. HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): In a remarkable display of community spirit and compassion, a highly successful Blood Donation Camp was held today at AsaMai Temple, Hicksville, led by Ms. Navneet Sondhi, Chairperson of the APS Women’s Forum, along with her dedicated team — Ms. Dilsheet Kaur, Shweta Malhotra, Priyanka Khanna, Binny Kaur, and Swati Anand.
The original target for the camp was 25 units of blood, but the response far exceeded expectations — about 50 people successfully donated, more than 10 could not donate due to eligibility criteria, and many who arrived after 4:00 PM had to be turned away.
The event was organized in partnership with AsaMai Temple, New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, New York Blood Center, and AAPI-QLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin – Queens & Long Island), represented by Dr. Devendra Srivastava, Dr. Abhay Malhotra, Dr. Sunil Mehra, and Dr. Prabhu Mehta, along with Dr. Tarun Wasil (NY Cancer & Blood Specialists) and Mr. Gobind Bhateja (AsaMai Temple). Ms. Anju Kakkar of AsaMai Temple graciously oversaw tea, snacks, and lunch arrangements for all present.
APS Women’s Forum led by Ms. Dilsheet Kaur, Shweta Malhotra, Priyanka Khanna, Binny Kaur, and Swati Anand The American Punjabi Society extended strong support through Mr. Gary S. Sikka (Founder & Global President), Mr. Mohinder S. Taneja (Senior Vice President), Mr. Varinder S. Sikka (General Secretary), Vice Presidents Mr. Paul Bindra, Mr. Ajai Vir Sondhi, Mr. Rajinder Narang, and Mr. Jaspal S. Arora, Pradeep Tandon (Director, Media & Public Relations), and Mr. Mohinder S. Chandok. Ms. Janessa Sondhi (Director, Youth Engagement) and volunteers Alissa Sondhi, Radhika Sardana, Bhavi Khanna, Mahi Anand, and Ms. Palwinder Bhatti efficiently managed registration and other organizational tasks.
Setting an inspiring example, Gary S. Sikka (Global President, APS) and Ajayvir Sondhi (Vice President, APS) were the first to roll up their sleeves and donate blood.
Navneet Sondhi shared, “It is heartwarming to see our community respond so strongly to a humanitarian cause. Every donor here has made a difference today, and when we work together, we can create real and lasting impact.”
Gary S. Sikka described the camp as “a shining example of how partnerships between community organizations can save lives,” praising Navneet’s “tireless commitment and compassion” as the driving force behind its success.
Gobind Bathija expressed, “Serving the community is at the heart of our temple’s mission, and it was an honor to open our doors for such a noble cause.”
Dr. Tarun Wasil emphasized, “Blood is a precious resource, and today’s efforts will directly help patients in need,” noting the remarkable turnout and collaboration.
The APS Women’s Forum, AsaMai Temple, and their partners remain committed to continuing to organize such initiatives to promote health, compassion, and unity within the community.
For Media Inquiries:
Gary S. Sikka – Global President, APS | info@americanpunjabisociety.com | 917-208-4027
Pradeep Tandon – Director, Media & Public Relations, APS | 718-564-3092
APS Executive Committee -
Nishant Garg appointed to national leadership position in wireless industry
Founder of the Telecom Institute of New York, Nishant Garg is an advocate of sustainability, education, and inclusion.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Nishant Garg, founder of Delta Enterprise USA and Telecom Institute of New York, has been appointed to the CTIA’s prestigious Reverse Logistics and Service Quality (RLSQ) Leadership Council. CTIA, the leading voice of the US wireless communications industry, announced Nishant’s appointment on August 1, 2025.
CTIA said on its LinkedIn page: “We are excited to welcome Delta Enterprise USA, a subsidiary of Telecom Institute of New York, and their President & CEO, Nishant Garg, to the RLSQ Leadership Council.”
Nishant Garg of New York City is a sterling success story that exemplifies how vision, hard work, and dedication can shape an extraordinary journey. He traces his roots to Darjeeling in India, and Nepal. He began his career in 2000 as a wireless retail sales associate. Today, he is a prominent voice in the wireless, education, and sustainability sectors, standing tall as a beacon of perseverance and purpose.
He is actively involved in Indian American diaspora affairs and serves on the Board of the Nepali Chamber of Commerce and Miss Nepal North America, where he promotes cross-cultural collaboration and community representation.
His appointment to CTIA’s RLSQ Leadership Council reflects his commitment to industry innovation, inclusive education, and environmental responsibility.
A Wireless Industry Veteran, with a Holistic Mission
The wireless industry today is a cornerstone of modern life, enabling connectivity, productivity, and social mobility worldwide. Nishant Garg has built a multifaceted ecosystem under his powerful umbrella, including a nationwide wireless distribution network, a chain of wireless retail stores, repair and restoration services that extend device life, electronics recycling programs that promote environmental sustainability, and skill development and training, particularly for the differently-abled and underserved communities.
“Wireless is not a luxury anymore, it’s a necessity. And making it accessible, sustainable, and equitable is a responsibility we all share,” he says.
Nishant founded the Telecom Institute of New York (T.I.N.Y.) in Forest Hills to provide hands-on training in tech repair, sales, and entrepreneurship. This EdTech platform helps close the skills gap for minority and economically disadvantaged communities, empowering individuals through upskilling and career development. His Delta Enterprise USA is a global distributor of mobile phones and accessories. Its reverse logistics process streamlines mobile device redeployment.
CTIA and the RLSQ Council
CTIA, the leading voice of the U.S. wireless industry, champions innovation, investment, and best practices. Its RLSQ Leadership Council sets repair, refurbishment, and recycling standards, with members from major players like Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Amazon, eBay, and Walmart. Nishant’s appointment ensures that small business experience, grassroots insight, and inclusive innovation are brought into high-level decision-making.
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THE FIRST INDIA DAY PARADE IN SEATTLE SHOWCASES ALL 28 STATES OF INDIA
SEATTLE (TIP): As part of the 79th Independence Day celebrations, the Consulate General of India in Seattle, in partnership with the City of Seattle, organized the First India Day Parade in Downtown Seattle on 16 August 2025. It showcased the rich cultural diversity of all states of India, including their cultural dance performances, along with an India Pavilion that put-on display ODOP (One District One Product) of each state and union territory of India.
Participants representing Kashmir at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Float and participants representing Kerala at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. Several dignitaries graced the occasion as Guests of Honor, including Hon’ble Mayor of Seattle Bruce Harrell, US Congressman Adam Smith, Seattle Port Commissioner Sam Cho, Seattle Parks & Recreation Superintendent/Director Mr. A P Diaz, King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci, US Coast Guard’s Northwest District Commander Rear Admiral Arex Avanni, Washington Supreme Court Justice Steven Gonzalez, along with Mayors of Mercer Island, Normandy Park, Sammamish and North Bend.
Float and participants portraying culture of West Bengal at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Performance representing celebration of Janmashtami in Uttar Pradesh at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. The inaugural ceremony began with a prayer invocation from the Vedas, followed by flag hoisting of India and national anthems of India and the United States. A vibrant cultural performance, Natyam: A Dance Mosaic of Bharat, showcasing the diverse dance traditions from across India, enthralled the audience. Consul General, along with Mayor of Seattle and other participating dignitaries ceremonially flagged off the India Day Parade, with tricolor balloons rising in the sky and marking the start of the grand procession.
Float representing Rajasthan at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Mayor of Seattle Bruce Harrell addressing the participants and visitors of the First India Day Parade in Seattle. Addressing the gathering of over 2000 attendees, Mayor of Seattle Bruce Harell welcomed the opening of the Indian Consulate in Seattle as a landmark development and noted that Seattle was diverse and a city of technological repute because of the contributions of Indian Americans and that Seattle City was honored to co-host the first-ever India Day Parade. He added that USA needs to learn India’s message of love, compassion and non-violence. U.S. Congressman Adam Smith, in his address, emphasized that peace and security across the globe are of paramount importance, noting that the United States has no better partner in working towards those goals than India.
Participants representing Gujarat booth in India Pavilion as part of the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Visitors at Chhattisgarh booth in India Pavilion as part of the First India Day Parade in Seattle. In the true Indian spirit of Unity in Diversity, thousands of Indian-Americans from across all States of India took part in the parade through floats and performances that showcased their region’s unique culture, languages, and art forms. Each float and performance was coordinated by community groups led by prominent Indian-American community leaders. While WATA (Washington Telangana Association) was the community lead, some highlights included Gujarat’s vibrant Garba, Maharashtra’s spirited Lavani folk dance, Andhra Pradesh’s graceful Kuchipudi, Odisha’s Boita Bandana with Vande Utkala Janani, and West Bengal’s float depicting the values of Swami Vivekananda.
One District One Product (ODOP) items in Rajasthan booth in India Pavilion as part of the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Booths representing the States of India in India Pavilion as part of the First India Day Parade in Seattle. Alongside the States and regional representations, thematic performances added further depth—such as Indian Heritage Arts, which displayed traditional paintings created by young Indian-Americans, and Gurukul, which celebrated India’s vast linguistic diversity, and an energetic performance by Beats of Washington depicting the valor and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji among many others.
Visitors witnessing the flag hoisting at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Float representing Telangana at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Float representing Janmashtami at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. 
Uttar Pradesh booth in India Pavilion as part of the First India Day Parade in Seattle. A major attraction of the event was the “India Pavilion,” where more than 30 booths were set up to represent the 28 States of India along with several thematic exhibits. Each booth showcased distinctive One District One Product (ODOP) items, accompanied by descriptions highlighting their cultural and historical significance. Dignitaries and visitors also enjoyed sampling regional culinary specialties and exploring cultural artifacts, offering a vivid glimpse into India’s heritage and traditions.
(Based on a press release issued by Soumith Raju K, Consul, Press, Information & Culture, Consulate General of India, Seattle)
Beats of Washington representing the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji at the First India Day Parade in Seattle. -
Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox’s selfie brings Friends nostalgia back
American actors Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox are keeping the Friends spirit alive. The two former co-stars reunited recently and shared glimpses of their time together on Instagram, much to the delight of fans.
Courteney posted a selfie with Jennifer and captioned it, “We look so cute next to each other….so do they,” referring to their brand products placed side by side in her shower. Jennifer’s haircare line LolaVie launched in 2021, while Courteney introduced her home care brand Homecourt in 2022.
Another photo showed the pair cheek to cheek on what looked like a sunlit boardwalk. Jennifer wore a black ruffled tank top with layered jewellery and her signature blonde hair, while Courteney stood slightly behind her in a brown collared shirt with her hair in waves. Fans couldn’t help but notice how similar their close-lipped smiles looked in the picture.
The duo’s friendship has always mirrored their on-screen bond as Rachel Green and Monica Gellar in Friends, which ran from 1994 to 2004. Along with Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer and the late Matthew Perry, their characters became household names, and their real-life connection has only grown stronger since.
Last year, Courteney revealed that Jennifer still owns pieces of Monica’s wardrobe from the show. “She took a lot of Monica’s dresses, and she’ll say, ‘Oh yeah, I used to wear this on Friends,’” Courteney said in 2024. -
Nicole Kidman’s solo residency bid in Portugal fuels Keith Urban divorce rumors
Nicole Kidman’s latest solo appearance for the Portugal residency application has led to divorce rumors, reported Radar Online. A source close to the portal told the news outlet that the Oscar-winning actress is “set on building a whole other life in Europe,” adding that husband Keith Urban “will not be a part of it.”
On Nicole Kidman’s 19 years of marriage with Keith Urban, the source added, “It’s no secret they have juggled long-distance for years, but going ahead to Portugal without Keith is a bold signal that things are not good between them.”
The residential application filed by Nicole Kidman at the Portuguese Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum only features her name, the Radar Online report mentioned. She is reportedly planning to buy a luxury home in the exclusive Costa Terra Golf and Ocean Club Resort.
Meanwhile, People Magazine had reported that Keith Urban could not accompany the Eyes Wide Shut actress to the mandatory in-person immigration meetings due to his current US Tour.
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s friends are in shock after listening to the divorce rumors, the Radar Online report added.
“Friends were stunned. They’ve built their reputation on having this unshakable marriage, so Nicole taking such a big step without Keith is setting off alarm bells. They may still smile for the cameras, but behind closed doors, things seem far less straightforward,” a source was quoted as saying.
Nicole Kidman shares two daughters, Sunday and Faith, with Keith Urban. The couple tied the knot in 2006, following a whirlwind romance the previous year. -
Isabela Ferrer comes out with harassment claims against Justin Baldoni
Just when you thought the It Ends With Us drama between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively had finally died down, the saga has taken yet another messy turn. What started as an ugly behind-the-scenes feud is now back in the headlines, thanks to actress Isabela Ferrer stepping forward with her own claims against Baldoni.
According to Variety, Ferrer’s lawyer alleged that Baldoni is “harassing” her and trying to use his financial influence to dictate how she responds to Blake Lively’s subpoena. The 24-year-old, however, reportedly wants nothing more than to stay out of the Baldoni-Lively legal firestorm.
Blake Lively is suing Baldoni for sexual harassment, claiming he retaliated against her after she spoke out, launching a hidden campaign to ruin her reputation. Lively’s lawsuit even accuses Baldoni of sneaking in a controversial scene where Young Lily loses her virginity — and then making the young actors uncomfortable by allegedly remarking, “I know I’m not supposed to say this, but that was hot.”
As expected, Baldoni’s camp has pushed back hard. His lawyers released text messages from Ferrer where she once described him as a “great director” and “wonderful to work with.” Their argument? That Ferrer only began distancing herself when Baldoni’s feud with Lively exploded during the movie’s promotion.
But Ferrer’s involvement escalated earlier this year when Lively’s lawyers subpoenaed her in February, seeking communications related to the case. That forced Ferrer to lawyer up — and ask Baldoni’s team, as her employer, to cover the costs. Instead of cutting a check, Ferrer’s lawyer Sanford Michelman says Baldoni tried to make the financial guarantee conditional on influencing her legal strategy. -
Akshay Kumar, Arshad Warsi summoned by Pune court for allegedly ‘disrespecting judiciary’
Actors Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi, along with director Subhash Kapoor, have been issued summons by a civil court in Pune for allegedly disrespecting the judiciary in their upcoming film, Jolly LLB. The summons were issued following a petition filed by lawyer Wajed Rahim Khan. The court has directed the three to appear in person on October 28 at 11 am.
According to advocate Wajed Rahim Khan, the action follows a petition filed by him, alleging that the film mocks the legal system and disrespects court proceedings. In the plea, he objected to the portrayal of the legal profession in a negative light and raised concerns over a scene where judges are referred to as “mama,” a slang term.
Speaking to ANI, he said, ” There should be respect for the lawyers. That is why I filed a petition in the court, that whatever they have shown about the advocates and the judges is wrong… I filed a petition in the Pune court. And the court has asked Akshay Kumar, Arshad Walsi and the director to be present.”
The complaint was originally filed in 2024 after the release of the film’s first teaser. The film’s teaser was released last week, giving the first glimpse at the clash of the two Jollys, played by Akshay and Arshad.
Jolly LLB 3 is the third instalment in the legal comedy franchise. The first part, led by Arshad, was a sleeper hit at the box office in 2013, earning close to ?50 crore on a ?10 crore budget. The sequel, starring Akshay Kumar in the lead, became a superhit, earning over ?200 crore worldwide.
Jolly LLB 3 sees the two actors reprise their roles and come together for the first time. The film is written and directed by Subhash Kapoor and is produced by Alok Jain and Ajit Andhare under the banner of Star Studio 18. Jolly LLB 3 is slated to release in theatres on September 19, 2025. -
Esha Gupta to join Ajay Devgn in Dhamaal 4
Bollywood actress Esha Gupta is all set to make a sparkling return to the big screen with the highly anticipated comedy entertainer, Dhamaal 4. Directed by Indra Kumar, the film will see her paired opposite superstar Ajay Devgn, promising a fresh wave of laughter, chaos, and charm for fans of the franchise.
Sources confirm that Esha will begin shooting her schedule from the end of this month, joining Devgn and the film’s ensemble, which includes fan favourites Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Jaaved Jaaferi, Ravi Kishan, and Sanjay Mishra. Known for her striking screen presence and natural flair, Esha is expected to bring a perfect blend of glamour, sass, and comedy to the film.
Interestingly, Esha was also part of the previous instalment, that is, Dhamaal 3, where the actress played an interesting character with wit and comedy. Now, with Dhamaal 4, her role has reportedly been expanded and made more pivotal, promising to add new twists, comedy moments, and high-energy interactions with the ensemble.
While specific details about her character remain under wraps, insiders suggest that Esha’s role will be integral to the storyline, not merely a glamorous cameo. Her entry is expected to elevate the narrative, infusing it with fresh energy and creating dynamic chemistry, especially with Ajay Devgn.
Esha recently gained traction for her music videos like ‘Brown Eyes Wali’ alongside Honey Singh and ‘Ishq Mera’ with Jubin Nautiyal, further taking the actress’ desire to explore various roles in the industry. Her participation in Dhamaal 4, we hear, will mark a high point in what is expected to be a vibrant season for Bollywood comedy films.
As the film gears up for production, fans can expect a high-octane mix of laughter, star power, and cinematic entertainment, with Esha Gupta ready to leave her signature mark on the beloved franchise. -
Keith Felsenfeld honors Gatka players at Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center
Sardar Harpreet Singh Toor shares his thoughts RICHMOND HILL, NY (TIP): Sardar Daler Singh trained Gatka players were honored by Keith Felsenfeld, Chief of Staff of NYC Councilwoman Linda Lee at Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center in America on August 17, 2025. Gatka team president Daler Singh was specially honored. S. Harpreet Singh Toor thanked the management committee of Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center and S. Daler Singh.
Keith Felsenfeld, Chief of Staff of NYC Councilwoman Linda Lee speaks Explaining the importance of Gatka, Mr. Toor said that Gatka is the martial art of the Sikhs, which includes the art of confrontation with enemies. Nihang Singhs are experts in this art. Gatka is not just a 3-letter word but represents the entire Sikh martial arts. Sikh martial art is that great heritage art of India that taught the oppressed people to live life with self-respect. Considering Gatka only as a game or associating it only with the art of war is like narrowing its vast scope. Gatka training begins with the technique and its reflection is seen in the lifestyle of a person.
Master Mohinder Singh, a founding President of the Gurdwara also spoke on the occasion. All the members of the managing committee of Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center were present on this occasion.
(Story and photos by Baldev Singh of BJ Video)
The honored Gatka players with their trainer Sardar Daler Singh, Sardar Harpreet Singh Toor, and the management of Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lubana -
PM Modi targets Oppn over bills on ‘tainted’ ministers
Patna (TIP)- The Opposition is against three contentious bills that bar any minister, chief minister or prime minister from holding office after getting arrested for a serious crime because most of their leaders are in jail or out on bail, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday, Aug 22, alleging that the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Congress were supporting infiltrators in Bihar.
Modi spoke in Bodh Gaya after inaugurating and laying the foundation of different projects worth?12,000 crore. Later in the day, he travelled to Kolkata where he inaugurated three Metro lines and projects worth Rs 1,200 crore and attacked the ruling Trinamool Congress, saying two state ministers refused to resign even after going to jail.“We have seen a regrettable situation in which people in seats of power have been running governments from jail, signing files from behind bars, tearing to shreds constitutional propriety,” said Modi, in an apparent reference to former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal who was arrested in March last year and got bail in September that year.
Saying that there was “no taint of corruption” on his 11-year-old government, the PM drew a contrast with the previous Congress regimes at the Centre and the RJD in the state.
“So, we decided to bring in a law that provides for the dismissal of a corrupt chief minister, or even the PM, if he or she spends 30 days in jail. A lowly clerk, if he is jailed for a short period, is placed under suspension. But when we brought in a stringent law, the RJD, the Congress and the Left were livid. They are angry because they are scared of facing punishment for their own sins,” Modi alleged.
He highlighted the dangers of demographic imbalance due to infiltration in border areas and underlined his Independence Day announcement of a high-powered demography mission to address this national security challenge. He appeared to link the issue of infiltration to the ongoing controversial special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar.
“The increasing population of illegal immigrants in the country is a matter of concern. In the bordering areas of Bihar, demography is rapidly changing. The NDA government has decided not to let illegal immigrants decide the future of our country…To tackle this threat, I have proposed to start a demographic mission,” he said. -
Parliament’s Monsoon Session ends amid protests, 15 Bills cleared
New Delhi (TIP)- Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die on Thursday, August 21, bringing the 21-day Monsoon Session to an early close. The session, which began on July 21, was originally scheduled to end on August 22 but concluded a day early after continuous protests and repeated disruptions.
Despite the turmoil, Parliament cleared 15 Bills, even as opposition parties stalled proceedings over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Several legislations were passed without discussion as adjournments paralyzed normal business.
The Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha were adjourned sine die a day before the scheduled conclusion of the session, which commenced on July 21 and included 21 sittings spread over 32 days.
Apart from the passage of bills, the session witnessed a fierce debate on Operation Sindoor. However, a discussion on astronaut Subhanshu Shukla’s mission aboard the International Space Station and the role of India’s space programme in building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ remained incomplete due to repeated disruptions.
According to an official release, 14 bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha, of which 12 were passed. In total, 15 bills were cleared by both Houses.
A special discussion on India’s strong and decisive Operation Sindoor—carried out in response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam—was held in both Houses, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi replying in the Lok Sabha. The debate lasted 18 hours 41 minutes in the Lok Sabha and 16 hours 25 minutes in the Rajya Sabha.
The Houses also approved the extension of President’s Rule in Manipur and passed the state budget.
A new Income Tax Bill was passed after the earlier version was withdrawn. The Income-tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025, was introduced, examined by a Select Committee, and passed in the Lok Sabha on August 11 before being returned by the Rajya Sabha a day later.
The National Sports Governance Bill, 2025 and the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 were also passed. The latter seeks to regulate the online gaming sector, including e-sports, educational, and social gaming, through a dedicated authority.
Additionally, five key bills under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways—including the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 and the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2025—were passed by both Houses.
Two bills—the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025—were introduced and referred to a Select Committee. Three others—the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirtieth Amendment) Bill, 2025, the Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2025—were referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament.
The Constitution Amendment Bill proposes the removal of ministers at the Centre or in states facing serious criminal charges punishable with imprisonment of five years or more if they are in custody for over 30 days.
A special discussion on India’s first astronaut aboard the International Space Station and the role of the space programme for Viksit Bharat 2047 was initiated on August 18 but remained incomplete due to disruptions.
Both Houses witnessed frequent adjournments, resulting in low productivity—about 31% in the Lok Sabha and 33% in the Rajya Sabha. Only 37 hours of debate took place out of the available 120 hours in the Lok Sabha during the session. -
Indian Flag Soars at Times Square in Spectacular 79th Independence Day Celebration; Historic Cricket Match Follows
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): New York City’s iconic Times Square was adorned with the tricolor on August 16th, 2025, as thousands gathered to celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day. Attendees, many proudly dressed in vibrant traditional Indian attire, filled the atmosphere with unity and pride while patriotic Indian songs resonated throughout the gathering.
The ceremony’s centerpiece was the solemn hoisting of both the Indian National Flag, the Tiranga, and the American flag, accompanied by the playing of both national anthems, against the dazzling digital backdrop of Times Square – a powerful symbol of India’s journey, global stature, and the strong bond between the two nations.
The flag was hoisted by Hon. Consul General of India Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, and in attendance were Indian Member of Parliament Shri Satnam Singh Sandhu and superstar of the Indian film industry Vijay Deverakonda.
Hon. Consul General of India Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan highlighted the broader significance, declaring that this 79th Independence Day celebrates the “global rise of India, the rise of the Indian-US Diaspora, and the strengthening US-India partnership.”
Hon. Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament, Member of the Standing Committee on External Affairs and Consultative Committee on Education shared deep personal emotion, stating he had “not enough words to describe the immense joy” of celebrating in Times Square and that he was “overwhelmed” by the experience and the display of patriotism.
Superstar and Indian film industry icon Vijay Deverakonda paid tribute to India’s freedom fighters, thanking “all those who strived for Indian freedom,” noting that their sacrifices allow us to “live in peace and continue to progress.” He described the celebration as a “surreal feeling.”
FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya expressed gratitude, specifically thanking the Consulate General of India (CGI) for their invaluable support and cooperation, and extended thanks to the large audience whose presence energized the event.
FIA President Saurin Parikh acknowledged key partners, thanking the Office of the Mayor of New York City and the Times Square Alliance for their crucial role in facilitating the event and making the celebration in this iconic location possible.
Following the flag hoisting and speeches, history was made as the celebrations transitioned to a limited-overs cricket match organized by Cricmax Connect – the first-ever cricket game played in Times Square. The match brought a taste of India’s national passion, a sport often described as “a religion” in the motherland, to the heart of New York City. The sight of batsmen and bowlers symbolized the global reach of Indian culture and provided a unique, joyous conclusion to the festivities, extending the celebrations with sporting spirit.
The combination of the Indian colors flying high, the resonant patriotic songs, the heartfelt words of leaders, the presence of community leaders, and the groundbreaking cricket match made the 79th Indian Independence Day celebration at Times Square an unforgettable landmark event.
The enthusiastic cricketers from the Cricmax team -
Asim Munir likening Pakistan to dumper truck confession of failure, says Rajnath
Days after Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir’s nuclear threat against India and the description of his own country as a “dumper truck”, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the remarks were a reflection of a “predatory” mentality and a confession of Islamabad’s “failure”.
Pakistan should not have any delusion in its mind after Operation Sindoor, Singh said, in an apparent reference to Munir’s comments that the neighbouring country could use its nuclear weapons to take down India and “half the world” in the event of an existential threat in any future conflict with New Delhi.
The defence minister also said Munir likening his country to a “dumper truck” while describing India as a shining Mercedes was a reflection of Islamabad’s “own failure”.
Singh was speaking at the Economic Times World Leaders’ Forum. “Recently, Pakistan’s army chief, General Asim Munir, was heavily trolled both within Pakistan and across the world for his statement,” he said.
“Everyone said that if two countries gained independence at the same time and one country, sound policies and foresight, built an economy like a Ferrari, while the other is still in the state of a dumper, then it is their own failure,” he said.
Rajnath, without directly referring to Munir’s nuclear threat, said Operation Sindoor has shown India’s approach in dealing with security challenges. “The Pakistani army chief, knowingly or unknowingly, has pointed towards a predatory mentality (kabilai aur looteri mansikta) that Pakistan has been a victim of since its inception,” he said. -
SC alters its ‘harsh’ order, allows stray dogs’ release
Holding that the earlier prohibition on releasing stray dogs was “too harsh”, the Supreme Court on Friday , Aug 22, modified its August 11 directions on the mass capture of stray dogs, clarifying that canines picked up by municipal authorities in Delhi and four adjoining districts, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad, will be released in the same locality after sterilisation and immunisation, except for those suffering from rabies or displaying aggressive behavior.
The top court’s clarification that community dogs must be picked up, sterilised and vaccinated, and then released — save for rabid or demonstrably aggressive animals — essentially reiterates the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023. Those rules, framed under Section 38 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, require local authorities to run ABC and anti-rabies programmes premised on catch-neuter-vaccinate-release.
Significantly, the court expanded the scope of the suo motu case that prompted the August 11 order to the entire country. It impleaded all states and Union territories, seeking reports from their animal husbandry departments and local bodies on ABC compliance. It also ordered the transfer of all similar petitions pending before high courts to itself “so that a national policy could be framed to deal with the issue.”
A three-judge bench, led by Justice Vikram Nath, noted that some of the mandates in the August 11 order by a bench of two judges were “impossible to comply with” given existing infrastructure as it underlined that the revised framework must be implemented in consonance with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023.
While the intent behind the August 11 order was “salutary” in seeking to protect citizens from aggressive and rabid dogs, the bench, also comprising justices Sandeep Mehta and NV Anjaria, said it could not be enforced in disregard of the statutory framework under the ABC Rules.
“The direction given in the order dated 11th August, 2025, prohibiting the release of the treated and vaccinated dogs seems to be too harsh, in our opinion…A blanket direction to pick up all the strays and place them in dog shelters/pounds without evaluating the existing infrastructure may lead to a Catch-22 situation because such directions may be impossible to comply with,” the bench held. The court reiterated that municipal authorities in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad must proceed with the mass capture of stray dogs and establish shelters or pounds for their relocation. Reports on the creation of such infrastructure across NCR will have to be filed before the court. -
Post-scrutiny, it’s direct contest between NDA, Opposition for Vice-President
New Delhi (TIP)- The stage is set for a direct contest between ruling NDA nominee C P Radhakrishnan and joint opposition candidate B Sudershan Reddy for the September 9 vice-presidential election.
After a scrutiny of the nominations filed for the vice-presidential poll, all four sets of nomination papers of both the candidates were found to be in order, the office of the returning officer for the election said.
The Rajya Sabha secretary general is the returning officer for the vice-presidential election.
According to a statement from the Rajya Sabha secretary general, the process of the vice-presidential election commenced on August 7 with the issuance of a notification.
The last date for filing nominations was August 21, while the date for a scrutiny of the nominations papers was August 22.
“During the period from the 7th to 21st August, 2025, the Returning Officer for the Vice-Presidential Election, 2025 and Secretary-General, Rajya Sabha, received a total of 68 nomination papers filed by 46 candidates.
“Out of these 68 nomination papers, 28 nomination papers filed by 19 candidates were summarily rejected in terms of section 5B(4) of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952,” the statement said. Forty nomination papers of 27 candidates were taken for scrutiny at 11 am on Friday and rejected under sections 5B(1)(b), 5B(1)(b) and 5C of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Election Act, it added.
“The nomination papers of the following candidates were found to be valid and hence accepted — C P Radhakrishnan (Nomination Paper Sl Nos. 26, 27, 28 and 29) and Buchireddy Sudershan Reddy (Nomination Paper Sl. Nos. 41, 42, 43 and 44),” the statement said.
