The Indian Panorama

Tag: Dallas

  • Massive winter storm spanning 40 states threatens US with snow, extreme cold

    Massive winter storm spanning 40 states threatens US with snow, extreme cold

    • 235 million brace for weekend winter weather; Travel disruptions inevitable
    • More than 8000 flights canceled; Air India cancels New York, Newark flights

    DALLAS/ NEW YORK (TIP): Freezing rain fell in parts of Texas on Friday , January 23, as a huge, days long winter storm began a trek that threatened to bring snow, sleet, ice, bone-chilling temperatures and extensive power outages to about half the US population. Forecasters warned that catastrophic damage, especially in areas pounded by ice, could rival that of a hurricane.

    Schools in Chicago and other Midwestern cities called off classes, airlines cancelled thousands of weekend flights, churches moved Sunday services online and the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, decided to hold its Saturday night radio performance without fans. Carnival parades in Louisiana were cancelled or rescheduled.

    At least 182 million people were under watches or warnings for ice and snow, and more than 210 million were under cold weather advisories or warnings. In many places those overlapped.

    Utility companies braced for power outages because ice-coated trees and power lines can keep falling long after a storm has passed.

    “It’s going to be a big storm,” Maricela Resendiz said as she picked up chicken, eggs and pizzas at a Dallas store to get her, her 5-year-old son and her boyfriend through the weekend. Her plans: “Staying in, just being out of the way.”

    Freezing rain slickened roads in Lubbock, Texas, in the afternoon as temperatures dropped.

    After sliding into the South, the storm was expected to move into the Northeast, dumping about a foot (30 centimeters) of snow from Washington through New York and Boston, the National Weather Service predicted.

    Arctic air was the first piece to fall in place
    Frigid air that spilled down from Canada prompted the cancellations of classes at schools throughout the Midwest. Wind chills as low as minus 40°F (minus 40 Celsius) meant that frostbite could set in within 10 minutes, making it too dangerous to walk to school or wait for the bus.

    Despite the bitter cold, a protest over an immigration crackdown went on as planned in Minnesota, with thousands demonstrating in downtown Minneapolis.

    Nationwide, more than 1,000 flights were delayed or cancelled Friday, with well over half of them in Dallas, according to the flight tracking website FlightAware. About 2,300 were called off for Saturday.

    In Oklahoma, Department of Transportation workers treated roads with salt brine, the Highway Patrol cancelled troopers’ days off and National Guard units were activated to help stranded drivers.

    The federal government put nearly 30 search and rescue teams on standby. Officials had more than 7 million meals, 600,000 blankets and 300 generators placed throughout the area the storm was expected to cross, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

    President Donald Trump said via social media that his administration was coordinating with state and local officials and “FEMA is fully prepared to respond.” Ice could take down power lines and pipes could freeze After the storm passes, it will take a while to thaw out. Ice can add hundreds of pounds to power lines and branches and make them more susceptible to snapping, especially if it’s windy. In at least 11 Southern states from Texas to Virginia, a majority of homes are heated by electricity, according to the US Census Bureau.

    A severe cold snap five years ago took down much of the power grid in Texas, leaving millions without power for days and resulting in hundreds of deaths. Gov Greg Abbott vowed that it will not happen again, and utility companies were bringing in thousands of employees to help keep the lights on.

    Northeast braces for possibly heaviest snow in years
    Boston declared a cold emergency through the weekend, and Connecticut was working with neighboring New York and Massachusetts in case travel restrictions are needed on major highways.

    Connecticut Gov Ned Lamont urged people to go grocery shopping now and “stay home on Sunday.”

    Philadelphia announced schools would be closed Monday. Superintendent Tony B Watlington Sr told students, “It’s also appropriate to have one or two very safe snowball fights.”
    (Agencies)

  • Round Rock Mayor Honors Mohammed Kashif at Launch of Free IT Bootcamp 2025

    Round Rock Mayor Honors Mohammed Kashif at Launch of Free IT Bootcamp 2025

    By Murtaza Ali Khan

    DALLAS, TX (TIP): The launch of the Free IT Bootcamp 2025 at the Round Rock Public Library marked a significant milestone for the city’s ongoing efforts toward digital inclusion and workforce development. The inaugural event witnessed strong participation from the community, including youth, students, early-career professionals, and working adults seeking to build or transition into careers in information technology.
    A major highlight of the event was the presence of the Honorable Mayor of Round Rock, Texas, Mr. Craig Morgan, who formally inaugurated the program and publicly honored and recognized the organizer, Mohammed Kashif, for his outstanding hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving the Round Rock community.
    While addressing the gathering, Mayor Morgan applauded Kashif’s vision and initiative, emphasizing that the free and open-to-the-public IT Bootcamp 2025 will play a vital role in equipping individuals with essential computer and IT skills needed to secure employment. He further noted that the program would help participants enhance their existing technical capabilities through structured mentoring, ranging from basic computer skills to advanced IT concepts.
    The Free IT Bootcamp 2025 has been thoughtfully designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry requirements. Many students and early-career professionals, despite possessing strong theoretical knowledge, often face difficulties in job interviews due to limited practical exposure. At the same time, individuals from non-IT and blue-collar backgrounds who aspire to enter the technology sector frequently encounter financial constraints and a lack of access to proper guidance.
    To address these challenges, Mohammed Kashif conceptualized the Free IT Bootcamp as a community-driven initiative focused on practical, industry-relevant training at no cost. The program covers a comprehensive range of IT fundamentals, including programming, databases, cybersecurity, cloud technologies, career readiness, and mentoring sessions aimed at building confidence and employability.
    The Mayor’s public recognition of Kashif was met with warm appreciation from attendees, many of whom have registered to participate in the upcoming bootcamp sessions. Community members described the initiative as timely and impactful, highlighting its role in democratizing access to technology education and creating meaningful pathways to employment.
    With strong community support and the endorsement of city leadership, the Free IT Bootcamp 2025 is set to become a transformative platform for Round Rock—empowering individuals with digital skills, professional guidance, and new opportunities in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

    (Murtaza Ali Khan is Critic | Curator | Journalist | Historian. An award-winning journalist, he has been covering art, culture, music, and entertainment for a decade and a half. He can be reached at murtaza.jmi@gmail.com / Phone: +91 9717554334)

  • India announces eight new consular application centers in US

    India announces eight new consular application centers in US

    WASHINGTON, DC (TIP): India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, on Thursday, July 31, announced the opening of eight new Indian Consular Application Centers across the United States, aimed at expanding access to consular services for the Indian diaspora.

    In a post on X, the Embassy of India in Washington, DC shared a video message by Ambassador Vinay Kwatra.

    “Announcing major expansion of our Consular Services in the USA beginning August 01, 2025. Here is a message from Ambassador Vinay Kwatra about this expansion and the positive changes it would bring to our delivery service.”

    Announcing major expansion of our Consular Services in USA beginning August 01, 2025. Here is a message from Ambassador Vinay Kwatra about this expansion and the positive changes it would bring to our service delivery. pic.twitter.com/w35fakWDTo

    — India in USA (@IndianEmbassyUS) July 31, 2025

    Ambassador Kwatra said in his statement that the new Indian Consular Application Centers would be in Boston, Columbus, Dallas, Detroit, Addison, Orlando, Raleigh, and San Jose.

    “In addition, we would also be opening another Indian Consular Application Centre in Los Angeles very soon. With the opening of these new Indian Consular Application Centers, our presence to provide extensive consular services and related delivery capabilities would increase and expand significantly. Besides, it would also make the delivery of these consular services faster and more accessible to our vibrant Indian diaspora.”

    The Ambassador said that starting August 1, all the Indian consular application centers would also remain open on Saturdays. He noted that this would help significantly enhance not just the availability of various consular services, but also their accessibility to the Indian diaspora.

    The Ambassador also mentioned the streamlining of various miscellaneous consular services, which would be made available through the Indian Consular Application Centers, and a few of the important services would, however, continue to be dispersed and made available from the embassy premises.

    “We firmly believe that people-to-people ties are at the heart of the India-US partnership. With the opening of two new consulates in Boston and Los Angeles, which the Prime Minister of India had announced a few months ago, we would be able to further strengthen not just a relationship between our two countries, but also our people-to-people ties, particularly in the areas of Boston and Los Angeles”.

    Ambassador Kwatra requested the members of the Indian diaspora to keep visiting the website of the Indian Embassy, where detailed information about the opening of these Indian Consular Application Centers and the availability of various miscellaneous Consular services would be made available more regularly.

    As per the Ministry of External Affairs, about 5.4 million Indian origin people (per MEA data; includes 2.07 million NRIs) reside in the US. Persons of Indian origin constitute the third-largest Asian ethnic group in the US. The Indian diaspora has been a catalyst in cementing closer ties between India and the US.

    Earlier this year, in January, the United States held a dedication ceremony for its new Consulate in Bengaluru, which made it the fifth US consulate in India.
    (Source: ANI)

  • President meets with Democratic governors for ‘candid’ talks as he seeks to reassure his party and the public

    President meets with Democratic governors for ‘candid’ talks as he seeks to reassure his party and the public

    Governors admit worries but rally behind Biden : ‘We have his back’

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): A group of leading Democratic governors offered words of support for Joe Biden on Wednesday as pressure mounted on the president to leave the race. The governors, including Tim Walz of Minnesota, Wes Moore of Maryland, Gavin Newsom of California and Kathy Hochul of New York, held a closed-door meeting with Biden in Washington as he sought to reassure his party – and the public – that he is up to the job after a shaky debate performance.

    Biden met for more than an hour at the White House in person and virtually with more than 20 governors from his party. The governors told reporters afterward that the conversation was “candid” and said they expressed concerns about Biden’s debate performance last week. They reiterated that defeating Donald Trump in November was the priority, but said they were still standing behind Biden and did not join other Democrats who have been urging him to withdraw his candidacy.

    “We, like many Americans, are worried,” Walz of Minnesota said. “We are all looking for the path to win – all the governors agree with that. President Biden agrees with that. He has had our backs through Covid … the governors have his back. We’re working together just to make very, very clear that a path to victory in November is the No 1 priority and that’s the No 1 priority of the president … The feedback was good. The conversation was honest.” “The president is our nominee. The president is our party leader,” added Moore of Maryland. He said Biden “was very clear that he’s in this to win it”.

    “We were honest about the feedback we’re getting … and the concerns we’re hearing from people,” Moore said. “We’re going to have his back … the results we’ve been able to see under this administration have been undeniable.”

    The meeting capped a tumultuous day for Biden as members of his own party, and a major democratic donor, urged him to step aside amid questions over his fitness for office. Two Democratic lawmakers have called on Biden to exit the race, and a third Congressman said he had “grave concerns” about Biden’s ability to beat Trump. The White House, meanwhile, was forced to deny reports that Biden is weighing whether his candidacy is still viable. Biden, for his part, has forcefully insisted that he is staying in the race.

    “Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can, as simply and straightforward as I can: I am running … no one’s pushing me out,” Biden said on a call with staffers from his re-election campaign. “I’m not leaving. I’m in this race to the end and we’re going to win.”

    Kamala Harris has also stood by his side, despite some insiders reportedly rallying around her as a possible replacement. “We will not back down. We will follow our president’s lead,” the vice-president reportedly told staffers on Wednesday.

    Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer also threw her support behind Biden. “He is in it to win it and I support him,” she said on Twitter/X after the meeting.

    Whitmer is one of several Democratic governors who have been cited as possible replacements if Biden were to withdraw his candidacy. Gavin Newsom, whose name has also been floated, flew in for the governors’ meeting on Wednesday, saying afterwards: “I heard three words from the president tonight – he’s all in. And so am I.”

    Newsom has been a top surrogate for Biden’s re-election campaign, but has also garnered increasing buzz as a potential replacement if Biden were to withdraw. He was swarmed by reporters after the debate ended last week, some asking him if he’d replace Biden.

    A Siena College/New York Times poll released Wednesday suggested Trump’s lead had increased since the debate, with him winning 49% of likely voters compared to 43% for Biden. Only 48% of Democrats in the poll said Biden should remain the nominee. A Reuters/Ipsos poll published Tuesday, July 2,  said that former first lady Michelle Obama is the only hypothetical candidate to definitively defeat Trump, but she has previously said she’s not running. That poll had Biden and Trump tied.

    Meanwhile, as Joe Biden faces increasing pressure to withdraw his candidacy following last week’s poor debate performance, Kamala Harris has emerged as the frontrunner to replace him.

    Senior sources at the Biden campaign, the White House and the Democratic National Committee  told the media  that the vice-president was the top alternative.

    Harris, a former senator from California, has stood by the president’s side as he weathers the debate fallout this week, and reportedly told campaign staffers on Wednesday: “We will not back down. We will follow our president’s lead.”

    A CNN poll published Tuesday, July 2,   found Harris “within striking distance of Trump in a hypothetical matchup” – 47% supporting the former president, and 45% supporting Harris, a result within the margin of error. The Biden-Trump matchup in that poll had Trump earning 49% of votes and Biden earning 43%. Harris’s modest advantage was due partly to her having broader support from women and independents, CNN said.

    With two Democratic congressmen now publicly calling on Biden to step aside, other party leaders have privately suggested they favor Harris as his potential replacement, according to reports. Hakeem Jeffries, House minority leader, signaled to members that she would be the best option, the Washington Post reported.

    James Clyburn, a senior congressional Democrat, said publicly he’d support Harris if Biden were to withdraw his candidacy, urging Democrats to “do everything to bolster her, whether she’s in second place or at the top of the ticket”. Summer Lee, a House Democrat from Pennsylvania, also said Wednesday that Harris was the “obvious choice” to replace Biden, if he decided not to run.

    Some Harris supporters who are advocating she take over the campaign have argued that she would perform better than Biden with Black and Latino communities, and that she is a more powerful abortion-rights spokesperson than Biden.

    Skeptics, however, have noted that Harris also remains fairly unpopular and have pointed to polls suggesting she has vulnerabilities in terms of voters’ trust in her ability to handle immigration, China relations and Israel’s war on Gaza.

    The other names that have been floated as possible replacements include California governor Gavin Newsom, Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer, Illinois governor J B Pritzker and Kentucky governor Andy Beshear. The Reuters poll, however, suggested they would all perform worse than Biden and Harris. If Harris became the presidential candidate, she could take over the funds raised by the campaign since the account is registered under Biden and Harris.

    On Wednesday, the White House also announced a series of “summer of engagement” events for Harris, including visits to New Orleans, Las Vegas, Dallas and Indianapolis.

    (Agencies)

  • Ex-Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif’s sons’ arrest warrants in Panama Papers scandal-linked cases cancelled

    Ex-Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif’s sons’ arrest warrants in Panama Papers scandal-linked cases cancelled

    Islamabad (TIP): In a major relief to ex-Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s family, an anti-corruption court on March 14 cancelled the permanent arrest warrants against his two sons, who recently returned from the UK after a seven-year self-imposed exile. Hassan Nawaz and Hussain Nawaz left the country in 2018 after they were named in the 2016 Panama Papers scandal.
    They faced charges in three corruption cases related to the Panama Papers but never appeared before the courts, which declared them absconders.
    The brothers returned to Pakistan on Tuesday after an Islamabad anti-corruption court on March 7 suspended the perpetual arrest warrants against the two until Thursday, clearing the last hurdle for their safe return to the country.
    On Thursday, Hassan and Hussain appeared at the Islamabad-based Accountability Court, which, after hearing the arguments, cancelled the permanent arrest warrant issued in the Flagship, Al-Azizia and Avenfield corruption cases.
    The court also approved their bail against a surety bond worth Rs 50,000 each.
    Both sons of the former prime minister also applied for exemption from attending court on the next hearing. The court adjourned the hearing till Friday.
    The brothers, who are British nationals, were implicated in the cases in 2018 along with their father, Nawaz Sharif, sister Maryam Nawaz and her husband, Muhammad Safdar.
    Nawaz Sharif, Maryam and Safdar were convicted in the Avenfield while the three-time former premier was also convicted in the Al-Azizia cases and acquitted in the Flagship case.
    All of them separately challenged convictions in the Islamabad High Court. Maryam and Safdar were the first to get relief in 2022 when they were acquitted while Nawaz Sharif was still living in London. Last year, he returned and, after brief proceedings, was acquitted in all cases.
    After their acquittal, only the two brothers were required to face the courts, as they were not formally tried due to their absence. Like their father, the two brothers are likely to get acquitted in all three cases as the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), which had instituted these cases against them, has given them a clean chit.
    Since the Sharif family and their party—the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)—are being patronage by the current military establishment, all the cases against them have either been closed or acquitted.
    In October last year, Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan after a four-year self-imposed exile in the UK, and after brief proceedings, he was acquitted in all cases.
    His younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, was elected as Pakistan’s prime minister for a second time after the PML-N and the Pakistan Peoples Party agreed on a power-sharing deal to form a coalition government.
    Maryam, the 50-year-old daughter of Nawaz Sharif, took oath as the first-ever woman chief minister of Pakistan’s most populous and politically crucial Punjab province on February 26. (Reuters)

  • Nepal PM wins trust vote in Parl for third time

    Kathmandu (TIP): Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on March 14 secured a vote of confidence in Parliament, as the Himalayan country struggled to maintain political stability.
    Prachanda, 69, a former guerilla leader of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) — the third largest party
    in the House of Representatives — got 157 votes in the 275-member lower house. He needed 138 votes to win the trust vote, his third since December 2022. (PTI)

  • 21 Indians arrested in Sri Lanka for working illegally while on tourist visa: Report

    Colombo (TIP): Sri Lankan authorities have arrested 21 Indian nationals for illegally operating an online marketing centre in the island nation, violating the relaxed tourist visa norms, a media report said on Wednesday.
    The 21 Indian men in the age group of 24 to 25, who were in Sri Lanka on tourist visas, were taken into custody on March 13 by the Department of Immigration and Emigration, the Daily Mirror newspaper reported.
    After a preliminary inquiry, the department raided a rented house in Negombo city, where those arrested were found operating an online marketing centre. The house had been converted into an office space where computers and other devices had been installed, the report said.
    Under Sri Lanka’s law, those who visit the island nation on tourist visas are prohibited from engaging in any paid or unpaid work.
    The Indian nationals had used the free-of-charge visa condition that Sri Lanka has granted to a set of countries till March 31 as part of an ongoing pilot project to promote tourism in the cash-strapped country.
    They had arrived in Sri Lanka in February and March on tourist visas, a senior immigration official told the newspaper. The arrested Indian nationals were transferred to the department’s detention centre in Welisara on the orders of relevant authorities, the report said. (PTI)
    Al-Qaida’s Yemen branch says leader Khalid al-Batarfi dead in unclear circumstances
    DUBAI (TIP): : The leader of Yemen’s branch of al-Qaida is dead, the militant group announced late March 11, without giving details.
    Khalid al-Batarfi had a $5 million bounty on his head from the U.S. government over leading the group al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula over years that saw him imprisoned, freed in a jailbreak and governing forces in Yemen amid that country’s grinding war.
    Though believed to be weakened in recent years due to infighting and suspected U.S. drone strikes killing its leaders, the group known by the acronym AQAP has long been considered the most dangerous branch of the extremist group still operating after the killing of founder Osama bin Laden.
    Al-Qaida released a video showing al-Batarfi wrapped in a white funeral shroud and al-Qaida’s black-and-white flag.
    Militants offered no details on the cause of his death and there was no clear sign of trauma visible on his face. Al-Batarfi was believed to be in his early 40s.
    The leader of Yemen’s branch of al-Qaida is dead, the militant group announced Sunday, March 10, 2024, without giving details.
    An attack by al-Qaida-allied group in northwest Syria kills, wounds dozens of troops, activists say
    The group made the announcement on the eve of Ramadan, the Muslim holy fasting month that Yemen will begin Monday.
    In the announcement, the group said Saad bin Atef al-Awlaki would take over as its leader. The U.S. has a $6 million bounty on him, saying al-Awlaki “has publicly called for attacks against the United States and its allies.”
    “Although in decline, AQAP remains the most effective terrorist group in Yemen with intent to conduct operations in the region and beyond,” a recent United Nations report on al-Qaida said.
    Estimates provided to the U.N. put AQAP’s total forces as numbering between 3,000 and 4,000 active fighters and passive members. The group raises money by robbing banks and money exchange shops, as well as smuggling weapons, counterfeiting currencies and ransom operations, according to the U.N.
    Al-Batarfi took over as the head of the branch in February 2020. He succeeded leader Qassim al-Rimi, who was killed by a U.S. drone strike ordered by then-President Donald Trump. (AP)

  • Rio police release 17 hostages from gunman on a bus, 2 people wounded

    Rio De Janeiro (TIP): Brazilian police said on March 12 they released 17 hostages from a gunman that took over a crowded bus in Rio de Janeiro and wounded at least two people.
    Rio police said in its social media channels that all hostages aboard a bus parked at one of the city’s main terminals had been freed “after a successful work of negotiation” led by its elite squad.
    The man’s motive remains unclear, Police Col Marco Andrade said in an interview on TV news channel Globo News. “We have children and older people inside the bus,” Andrade said, adding that very little was known at this stage.
    The bus was parked at the Sao Cristovao terminal in the city centre and was scheduled to head to the neighboring state of Minas Gerais.
    Police cars and ambulances could be seen waiting near the bus, while thousands of passengers were stranded waiting for information on scheduled travel.
    People interviewed on TV said they heard several gunshots, causing panic inside the crowded terminal.
    One wounded person was sent to a nearby hospital, police said. (AP)

  • Rare protest by Chinese official media against police crackdown on coverage of deadly blast

    Beijing (TIP): In a rare show of defiance, Chinese media on March 14 protested against the attempts by police to block the coverage of a suspected gas leak explosion at an eatery in the country’s north, which killed seven persons and injured 27. The blast that rocked a fried chicken shop in Yanjiao township in the city of Sanhe, near Beijing, on Wednesday is suspected to have been caused by a gas leak.
    As Chinese official media and foreign journalists rushed to cover the explosion, which killed two people and injured 27 others, they were forcibly prevented by local authorities from the scene, raising a rare controversy over the country’s press restrictions.
    A journalist with state broadcaster CCTV was interrupted while reporting live from the scene of the blast. The journalist was seen surrounded by several uniformed police officers who blocked the camera and shouted about the potential danger at the scene, according to a video that circulated online.
    The video of the report was no longer available on CCTV’s website as of Thursday, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post newspaper reported.
    In another video, reporters were seen surrounded by a group of uniformed police officers asking them to leave the scene.
    A reporter with state-run China Media Group, of which CCTV is a division, was heard saying, “We three reporters are shoved by a dozen people”.
    The state-run All China Journalists Association objected to the official crackdown, saying that officials should not “simply and brutally obstruct journalists in the normal performance of their duties for the sake of controlling public opinion”. The association urged officials to make it easier for media to conduct on-site interviews when reporting emergencies.
    The police crackdown against media was seen as an attempt by the local officials to downplay the coverage, fearing reprisals as last month, Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered steps to curb occurrences of recurring incidents of building fires due to various causes and protect people’s lives and property and social stability.
    As the videos of media protests went viral on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, akin to X, local authorities on Thursday issued a statement saying they were “deeply remorseful” and apologised to the journalists, the Post report said.
    The media protest against the official crackdown also figured in the Chinese foreign ministry briefing, as many foreign journalists were reportedly prevented from covering the evening.
    When questioned on restrictions imposed on journalists, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said local officials have issued a statement on the incident.
    China welcomes foreign journalists conducting reporting activities under the law and is willing to facilitate if the media faces any problems, Wang said.
    Fire and gas explosions have been taking place almost every month, prompting President Xi to order the concerned agencies to take pre-emptive measures. (PTI)

  • Plan to install new leaders in Haiti appears to crumble after political parties reject it

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI (TIP): A proposal to install new leadership in Haiti appeared to be crumbling March 13 as some political parties rejected the plan to create a presidential council that would manage the transition.
    The panel would be responsible for selecting an interim prime minister and a council of ministers that would attempt to chart a new path for the Caribbean country that has been overrun by gangs. The violence has closed schools and businesses and disrupted daily life across Haiti.
    Jean Charles Moïse, an ex-senator and presidential candidate who has teamed up with former rebel leader Guy Philippe, held a news conference Wednesday to announce his rejection of the proposed council backed by the international community.
    Moïse insisted that a three-person presidential council he recently created with Philippe and a Haitian judge should be implemented.
    “We are not going to negotiate it,” he said in a loud voice as he wiped his forehead with a handkerchief. “We have to make them understand.”
    His ally, Philippe, who helped lead a successful revolt in 2004 against former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide and was recently released from a United States prison after pleading guilty to money laundering, said no Haitian should accept any proposal from the international community.
    It was not immediately clear who be awarded a position on the council if it was rejected by certain political parties. (AP)

  • Ukraine fires missiles at poll-bound Russia

    Moscow (TIP): Ukraine fired at least eight missiles at Russia’s Belgorod border region, killing one person and wounding six, local officials said March 14, as Kyiv’s forces apparently kept up their efforts to rattle the Kremlin on the eve of Russia’s presidential election.
    Also, in Russia’s Kursk border region, Ukrainian forces attempted a cross-border raid that was repelled, according to local authorities. It was not possible to independently verify the Russian claims.
    The Ukrainian assaults on Russian territory in recent days, including long-range drone attacks and alleged incursions by Ukraine-based Russian proxies, have come as President Vladimir Putin heads for near-certain reelection. Putin has sought to persuade Russians to keep him in power against a backdrop of what he says are foreign threats to the country. — AP

  • UK redefines extremism to counter hate crime, radicals

    UK redefines extremism to counter hate crime, radicals

    London (TIP): The UK government on March 14 issued a new, “more precise” definition of extremism in response to increased threats since the October 2023 Hamas terror attacks in Israel and to protect liberal democratic principles against extreme right-wing and Islamist extremists.
    Extremism in the UK is now defined as the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred or intolerance, that aims to negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others; undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights; or intentionally create a permissive environment for others to achieve the results in the first two categories.
    PM flagged issue
    Earlier this month, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak warned that Britain’s multi-ethnic democracy was being deliberately undermined by both Islamist and far-right extremists, and more needed to be done to tackle the problem
    Antisemitic incidents rose by 147% in 2023, fuelled by the October 7 attacks, according to Community Security Trust, a Jewish safety watchdog
    The previous definition, introduced in 2011 under the government’s Prevent strategy, defined extremism as “vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and belief”.
    UK Levelling Up and Communities Secretary Michael Gove said the update was needed to safeguard the UK as a multi-national, multi-ethnic, multi-faith democracy “success story”, which is stronger because of its diversity.
    “But our democracy and our values of inclusivity and tolerance are under challenge from extremists. In order to protect our democratic values, it is important both to reinforce what we have in common and to be clear and precise in identifying the dangers posed by extremism,” said Gove.
    The minister said the new measures would ensure that the government does not inadvertently provide a platform to those setting out to subvert democracy and deny other people’s fundamental rights. He also indicated it marks the first in a series of measures to tackle extremism and protect British democracy. The new definition is not statutory, does not create new powers and has no effect on the existing criminal law of the country.
    It will be used by ministerial departments and officials alongside a set of engagement principles to ensure they are not “inadvertently” funding or legitimising groups or individuals who attempt to advance extremist ideologies. — PTI

  • Kremlin says Putin didn’t threaten to use nuclear weapons, US took him out of context

    Kremlin says Putin didn’t threaten to use nuclear weapons, US took him out of context

    Moscow (TIP): The Kremlin said on March 14 that comments on nuclear weapons that Russian President Vladimir Putin made in an interview with state media did not constitute a threat to use them, and accused the US of deliberately taking the remarks out of context.
    Putin said in the interview published on Wednesday that Russia was technically ready for nuclear war and that if the US sent troops to Ukraine, it would be considered a significant escalation of the conflict.
    Commenting on Putin’s words, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that Washington understood that the Russian leader was restating Moscow’s nuclear doctrine, but accused Russia of deploying “reckless and irresponsible” nuclear rhetoric throughout the Ukraine conflict.
    Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday that Putin had merely been answering a journalist’s questions on the subject and restating the already well known circumstances in which Russia would theoretically be forced to use nuclear weapons.
    Peskov also drew attention to the fact that Putin had said in the same interview that the idea of using tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine had never crossed his mind.
    Asked about the White House comments, Peskov said: “This was deliberately taking something out of context. Putin made no threats about the use of nuclear weapons in this interview. The president was just talking about the reasons that could make the use of nuclear weapons inevitable.”
    “These are the reasons that are stated in our relevant documents, which are well known throughout the world. Moreover, everyone in the West deliberately failed to notice his words that it had never occurred to him to use tactical nuclear weapons (in Ukraine), despite the various situations that have developed in the course of the fighting. This is a deliberate distortion of the context and an unwillingness to hear President Putin,” he added. (Reuters)

  • Israeli jets hit more Hezbollah targets in Lebanon’s Bekaa

    Israeli jets hit more Hezbollah targets in Lebanon’s Bekaa

    BEIRUT (TIP): Israeli warplanes struck deep into Lebanon for a second consecutive day on March 13, hitting a facility belonging to Hezbollah in the Bekaa Valley and killing at least one member of the Iran-backed group, sources in Lebanon said.
    Ship carrying aid to Gaza leaves Cyprus
    A ship carrying 200 tonnes of aid for Gaza left Cyprus on Tuesday in a pilot project to open a sea route to deliver supplies to a population aid agencies say is on the brink of famine
    Aid groups say it is nearly impossible to deliver aid in much of the territory because of Israeli restrictions and ongoing hostilities. The US has also announced plans to construct a sea bridge near Gaza in order to deliver aid
    The Israeli military said its fighter jets had “struck two Hezbollah military command centres” in the Baalbek area, in response to Hezbollah rocket launches towards northern Israel earlier in the day.
    The violence marked an uptick of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel which has been fought in parallel to the Gaza war and fuelled fears of an all-out conflict between the heavily armed adversaries.
    Hezbollah said in a statement it had fired more than 100 Katyusha rockets at 7 am (0500 GMT), targeting several Israeli military posts, in response to Israeli shelling of the Bekaa Valley region on Monday night.
    At least one civilian was killed and several others were wounded in Monday’s strikes by Israel, one of which hit the southern entrance to the city of Baalbek, about 2 km (1.2 miles) from its ancient Roman ruins, two security sources in Lebanon and the Baalbek governor, Bashir Khader, said.
    The Israeli military said in response to Monday’s rocket launches, its fighter jets had struck sites in the Baalbek area which Hezbollah used to store “significant assets used to strength its weapons arsenal”.
    “A military compound in the area of Khiam and terrorist infrastructure in the area of Bint Jbeil were also struck,” the Israeli military added.
    The Hezbollah member was killed and several more were wounded in an airstrike in the Bekaa Valley village of Nabi Chit, said one of the Lebanese sources. The targeted region is a stronghold of the Shi’ite Islamist group near the Lebanese-Syrian border. — Reuters

  • Scary sight: Japan’s 1st private-sector rocket explodes seconds after launch

    Tokyo (TIP): A rocket that was supposed to become Japan’s first from the private sector to put a satellite into orbit exploded shortly after takeoff on March 13, a livestreamed video showed.
    Online video showed the rocket called Kairos blasting off from Wakayama Prefecture, in central Japan, a mountainous area filled with trees, but exploding midair within seconds.
    A huge plume of smoke engulfed the area, and flames shot up in some spots. The video then showed spurts of water trying to put out the blaze.
    There were no reports of injuries, and the fire has been brought under control, according to the fire department in Kushimoto city, Wakayama.
    Tokyo-based startup Space One, behind the rocket launch, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
    Live footage on public broadcaster NHK relayed a voice announcing to the crowd gathered to watch the takeoff from a safe distance. NHK showed debris scattering from the sky, and later charred pieces strewn about on the ground. The cause of the problems was still under investigation, according to NHK.
    The launch was already delayed several times, with the last postponement coming on Saturday, after a ship was spotted in a risk area, according to Japanese media reports.
    If it had succeeded, Space One would have been the first private company to put a rocket into orbit.
    Tokyo-based Space One was set up in 2018, with investments from major Japanese companies, including Canon Electronics, IHI, Shimizu and major banks. (AP)

  • Four, including three Indians, arrested while entering US illegally from Canada

    Four, including three Indians, arrested while entering US illegally from Canada

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Three Indian nationals are among four people arrested in Upstate New York after they jumped off a moving freight train coming from Canada in their bid to enter the US illegally.

    US Border Patrol agents arrested the four, including a woman, on March 12. The investigation concluded that all four people were undocumented non-citizens.

    Border Patrol agents assigned to the Buffalo Station spotted four people jumping off a moving freight train on the International Railroad Bridge in the city of Buffalo.

    The men left the woman who became immobile due to an injury and were caught shortly after a foot pursuit. The injured woman received first aid from Erie County Sheriff’s deputies and U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers (CBP). After treatment, the woman was transported by ambulance to a local medical centre.

    Border Patrol agents were able to identify that the woman and two men were from India and the third man was from the Dominican Republic. The three men are being processed for removal and detained in Batavia Federal Detention Facility awaiting a deportation hearing for charges under Sections 212 and 237 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, a media release said.

    The woman remains at a local medical centre awaiting further medical treatment. This is a great example of how our Border Patrol agents, CBP officers and law enforcement partners work tirelessly to protect the Western New York area,” said Chief Patrol Agent Thomas G. Martin, US Border Patrol Buffalo Sector.

  • Virginia State Senate commends Indian origin journalist for his “dedication to journalism and foreign policy.”

    Virginia State Senate commends Indian origin journalist for his “dedication to journalism and foreign policy.”

    RICHMOND, VA (TIP): On March 8, 2024, the Virginia State Senate approved a formal resolution with a voice vote commending Washington Bureau Chief of News India Times, T. Vishnudatta Jayaraman, for his “dedication to journalism and foreign policy.” The resolution was introduced by Indian-American Virginia State Senator, Suhas Subramanyam, who is also a Democratic candidate for US Congress from Virginia’s 10th Congressional district. Introducing Jayaraman in the Senate gallery, on March 4th, Senator Subramanyam referred to him “as the recipient of the prestigious Ashoka Award for social change,” while commending his dedication to journalism and foreign policy.

    He further said, on January 27th, Jayaraman “received a Distinguished Service Award ‘for advancing media coverage for the Indian diaspora and fostering US-India relations’ from the Indian Ambassador to United States Taranjit Sandhu and of course, you Madam President,” referring to Lieutenant Governor of Virginia and President of the Senate, Winsome Sears.

    The National Council of Asian Indian Associations hosted the event to commemorate India’s 75th Republic Day Celebrations on January 27th in McLean, Virginia.

    Accepting a request from Senator Subramanyam “to give him [Jayaraman] a warm Senate welcome and recognition of all that he’s accomplished in the field,” Lieutenant Governor Sears expressed, “Part of a democracy and I think probably the very first part is that the media be free. And we are so glad that you are there to help remind us of that. Hence, all the accolades that you’ve received, we can congratulate you. And thank you for coming. Senators, let us give him the warm welcome of our Senate.”

    On February 28th, Kannan Srinivasan, the first Indian-American immigrant elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, also presented a commendation to Jayaraman on the House Floor for having received the Distinguished Service Award.

    The Ashoka Award was presented to Jayaraman by the former Governor of Arunachal Pradesh and 22nd Chief of Army Staff of Indian Army, General J. J. Singh, and former India’s Minister of Home Affairs and Tourism, Subodh Kant Sahay in New Delhi on December 17, 2023. The event was organized by The Charles Walters Council/Society for Innovation & Research, India. Born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Jayaraman, also known as J. T. Vishnu, previously worked with Hindustan Times, The Tribune, and The Sunday Observer in New Delhi. He also worked at the Department of Public Information at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, and contributed to publications including UN Yearbook and UN Chronicle.

    Jayaraman has an undergraduate degree from Loyola College, Chennai. He has a Master’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, and a PhD in International Administration and the United Nations from the University of Madras. He also has a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and International Relations from Seton Hall University, New Jersey.

  • India-US security cooperation will become even more important in the years ahead: Richard Verma

    India-US security cooperation will become even more important in the years ahead: Richard Verma

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): India-US security cooperation will become even more important in the years ahead and the work of the two countries on emerging technologies will take on even more promise, a top American diplomat said on Thursday, March 14, reiterating the remarks of President Joe Biden that this is the defining partnership of the 21st century.

    “As both President Biden and Prime Minister Modi have said, our impact on each other is important, but what we can do for the world is even more important. Whether it’s addressing food insecurity or battling the next pandemic or connecting millions to the digital economy, there is so much we can do together,” Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, Richard Verma, wrote in a blog post in his recent return from India.

    Verma is the highest-ranking Indian-American ever in the State Department. He was also the first ever Indian-American to serve as the US Ambassador to India.

    “So, where are we headed?” Verma wrote as he described in detail the significant growth in the India-US relationship over the last few decades.

    He identified defense, democracy and technology as three key areas of cooperation between the two countries.

    “Our security cooperation will become even more important in the years ahead. The threats we face are real, but building our collective capabilities, increasing sharing of information, and improving maritime domain awareness and interoperability will ensure India continues to be a provider of net security across the Indo-Pacific region and beyond,” Verma wrote. “Our work on protecting, preserving, and strengthening democracy will continue to be even more important, with the rise of authoritarian leaders and movements. This includes continuing to strengthen a global rules-based order architecture, ensuring we bridge the divide on income inequality, and battling mis and disinformation. Democracy must continue to deliver for our peoples,” he said.

    “Our work on emerging technologies will take on even more promise. New and emerging technologies offer tremendous opportunities for economic growth and development. At the same time, recent disruptive cyber attacks, carried out by criminals and nation states, demonstrate the risk that cyber vulnerabilities can pose to global peace and security,” said the top American diplomat.

    “We must work together to tackle data privacy issues, such as identity theft, by exchanging knowledge on data protection issues. Through the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership, the US is working closely with India to build and maintain internet infrastructure and strengthen cybersecurity protections. From semiconductors to critical minerals to space exploration and innovation in clean energy, battling climate change, and so much more, this is about economic and physical security,” Verma wrote.

  • Indian American indicted in a Ponzi scheme

    Indian American indicted in a Ponzi scheme

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): An Indian-American has been indicted by a grand jury in a Ponzi scheme with the FBI urging victims of the investment adviser in Texas to come forward. Siddharth Jawahar, 36, has been ordered imprisonment until sentencing by the court. The FBI on Wednesday, March 13 said it is seeking potential Miami-area victims of Jawahar who has been accused of running a multimillion-dollar Ponzi scheme.

    According to the indictment, from July 2016 through roughly December 2023, Jawahar took in more than $35 million from Swiftarc investors but spent about $10 million on investments in companies.

    Jawahar used the money from new investors to repay older investors and to fuel an extravagant lifestyle that included flights on private planes, stays at luxury hotels and expensive outings at lavish restaurants, the indictment says. In 2015, Jawahar began investing the majority of client funds in a single investment, Philip Morris Pakistan (PMP), the indictment says, and eventually, 99 per cent of client funds were consolidated into the PMP investment. Jawahar did not tell investors of a dramatic decline in the value of PMP, instead misled investors about the share price and their profits. The indictment says Jawahar also did not tell investors when the Texas State Securities Board revoked Swiftarc Capital’s authority to conduct investment activities on June 7, 2022, and ordered Jawahar to cease from engaging in fraud. Jawahar continued to fraudulently solicit and receive investor funds, including $1 million from an investor weeks after the state board’s order, the indictment says.

    The wire fraud charges are each punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or both.

    The investment adviser fraud charge is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine, or both.

  • US says it is concerned about CAA and closely monitoring its implementation

    US says it is concerned about CAA and closely monitoring its implementation

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The United States on Thursday, March 14 said it is concerned about the notification of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act in India and is closely monitoring its implementation.

    “We are concerned about the notification of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act on March 11,” State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters at his daily briefing.

    “We are closely monitoring how this act will be implemented. Respect for religious freedom and equal treatment under the law for all communities are fundamental democratic principles,” Miller said in response to a question.

    The Indian government implemented the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019 on Monday, paving the way for the grant of citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan who came to India before December 31, 2014. The government also came out with a press statement to say that Indian Muslims need not worry as the CAA will not impact their citizenship and has nothing to do with the community which enjoys equal rights as their Hindu counterparts. The Indian government has maintained that the CAA is about granting citizenship and that no citizen of the country will lose citizenship.

  • US House passes bill to ban TikTok

    US House passes bill to ban TikTok

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a bill to ban Chinese social media app Tiktok, which is very popular among kids, in the United States.

    India was the first country to ban TikTok in 2020 after it became public knowledge that the popular Chinese social media platform was being used for gathering personal data and spying on others.

    Passed by the House by 352 to 65 votes, the bill now heads to the US Senate for it to be sent to the White House for the President to sign it into law. While 197 Republican lawmakers voted for the measure and 15 against, on the Democratic side, 155 voted for the bill and 50 against. The bill, “Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act”, was co-authored by Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat, and Congressman Mike Gallaghe from the Republican party.

    “This bill is not a ban and it is not about TikTok. It is about ByteDance…a 100 per cent owner of TikTok. ByteDance is controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. In fact the editor-in-chief of ByteDance is the secretary of the Chinese Communist Party cell embedded at the very highest ranks of the company,” Krishnamoorthi said.

    He said the bill ensures that ByteDance divests itself of the vast majority of the ownership at TikTok. “Our intention is for TikTok to continue to operate but not under the control of the CCP,” Krishnamoorthi said.

    Former vice president Mike Pence said the passage of this legislation demonstrates that appeasement to Communist China is over, allowing TikTok to continue operating in the United States while under CCP control is simply unacceptable. “The Senate must take up this legislation as soon as possible and send it to President Biden’s desk. AAF will never falter in our commitment to confronting China at home and abroad, the American government must not falter now,” he demanded.

    Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the overwhelming and bipartisan passage of the bill is a strong statement of the Congress’s commitment to the security of the country and privacy of the data. “Let me be clear: this legislation is not a ban on TikTok. I join my colleagues in recognising the platform’s entertainment, educational and entrepreneurial value, especially among younger people. Instead, this legislation would strengthen TikTok: keeping Americans’ data and control of the algorithm out of the hands of a foreign adversary.

    “In doing so, we protect against surveillance and influence operations that are hallmarks of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP),” she said.

    Repressed communities in China – from the Uyghurs to Tibetans to the people of Hong Kong, and others – are telling us that their stories of their suffering are being blocked or misrepresented on TikTok, Pelosi said.

    “At the same time, the CCP is spreading propaganda to cover up its heinous abuses. We cannot allow Beijing to bury the truth of its abysmal record on human rights,” Pelosi said, and urged the Senate to bring companion legislation to a vote as quickly as possible.

    “The Senate will review the legislation when it comes over from the House,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul said CCP-controlled TikTok is an enormous threat to US national security and young Americans’ mental health. “This past week demonstrated the Chinese Communist Party is capable of mobilising the platform’s users to a range of dangerous, destabilising actions. The Senate must pass this bill and send it to the president’s desk immediately,” he said.

    Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Mark R Warner and Vice Chairman Marco Rubio said they are united in their concern about the national security threat posed by TikTok – a platform with enormous power to influence and divide Americans whose parent company ByteDance remains legally required to do the bidding of the Chinese Communist Party.

    “We were encouraged by today’s strong bipartisan vote in the House of Representatives, and look forward to working together to get this bill passed through the Senate and signed into law,” the two Senators said.

  • US lawmakers call for addressing Green Card backlog and resolving H-1B issues at immigration summit

    US lawmakers call for addressing Green Card backlog and resolving H-1B issues at immigration summit

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Eminent lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties at an immigration summit have called for urgently addressing the Green Card backlog, an issue that is majorly impacting Indian professionals and the issues related to the H-1B visa.

    At the first-of-its-kind ‘Tech Immigration Summit’ at the US Capitol on Monday, March 11 hosted by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora (FIIDS), the lawmakers pushed for removing the seven per cent country quota when it comes to issuing Green Card or legal permanent residency to foreign guest workers in specialized categories. In the absence of such a move, the Green Card waiting period for Indian immigrants would be more than 20 years and over 70 years in many cases.

    A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently. Congressman Ro Khanna, who is also co-chair of the Congressional India Caucus, called for a rational immigration policy.

    “We know that immigrants have helped build Silicon Valley, that so many of the companies that have started, that have created so many jobs that have created so much employment have been founded by immigrants from India, from China, from Asia, the Middle East, from Europe,” he said.

    Khanna is co-sponsor and lead of the Eagle Act, which he said would get rid of the country caps so that people aren’t perpetually in status because that hurts American workers.

    “You are hurting American workers by allowing corporations to underpay folks on an H1-B, and you’re hurting the families on H1-B. And that’s why we need to move them to green cards and ultimately citizenship,” he said.

    “It will help raise wages, help American workers, and help these families. We also should be providing a Green Card to folks who are educating in the United States. It makes no sense that we’re paying for someone’s education at college or giving them STEM, and then we’re telling them that they have to go back to where they came from when American taxpayers are funding the education. I’d rather stay here, create the jobs here instead of offshoring those jobs,” Khanna said.

    “We made a lot of progress on these bills. We need to now get it again through the House. But the obstacle, as you know, has been the Senate, as is often the case,” Khanna said.

    Congressman Eric Swalwell said 40 per cent of his constituents in California were born outside of the United States.

    “If we want to take on the bigger challenges, we need the fix. If we want to cure cancer in America, we need to fix a broken immigration system. If we want to see fewer emissions when it comes to how we get our energy, we need to fix our immigration system. If we want to pay less in childcare, we need to fix our immigration system,” he said.

    The American immigration system is broken, Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar said.

    “We need legal immigration solidified; our businesses need that. Every time I meet CEOs of companies, they tell me how important it is to be able to find a skilled workforce. Today we are losing so many people to Australia to Canada because they’re taking advantage of our broken immigration system.

    “We need to be able to keep the skilled workforce in the US. That’s going to help our GDP, that’s going to help our businesses to grow, and that’s going to create more American jobs,” he said.

    “It’s in the best interest of the United States to continue to welcome immigrants and make it easier. I think the current system is so stressful to the employees and their families,” he said. Congressmen Rich McCormick and Raja Krishnamoorthi called for passage of the relevant legislation from the US Congress.

    Khanderao Kand from the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) said technology immigrants are leading entrepreneurs in big industries.

    “From an innovation point of view, the largest innovators, patent holders are coming from the immigration background,” he said. Technology professionals, when they settle, they create jobs and wealth in the United States.

    “However, their situation, particularly the largest source of technology professionals coming from India, they are shackled by the seven per cent country quota. This policy created a huge backlog resulting in the green card processing for new applicants for more than a hundred years. They will never be able to get their green card unless technology policies are changed. That’s why we hosted this immigration summit. We addressed the issues like, seven per cent quota, EAD, OPT, various such kinds of issues,” Kand said.

    “We also discuss about the bills pending in the Congress,” he said. In addition to several US lawmakers, representations from think tanks, and an official from the Department of State, there were testimonies from the various impacted people, whether they are the pending backlog green card, or could be the documented dreamers, or the family members or the students, all of them.

    “In addition to that, technology entrepreneurs came, and they presented their thought processes. So overall, this summit has been very successful and we hope that we can make a dent in the policies both within the Congress and the administration,” Kand said.

  • Hon’ble Mayor of Xela, Mr. Juan Fernando Lopez visits India to get valuable insights into various infrastructural projects

    Hon’ble Mayor of Xela, Mr. Juan Fernando Lopez visits India to get valuable insights into various infrastructural projects

    Hon’ble Mayor’s visit to India holds immense significance in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering collaboration between Xela and India

    The delegation visiting manufacturing unit of Force Motors in Pune

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): India’s robust economic growth, coupled with its expanding global footprint, has positioned the country as a key player in the international arena. With Indian companies actively engaging in Central American market, India’s role in fostering economic ties and partnerships with countries like Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras has become increasingly significant. As the fifth largest economy globally and poised to become the third largest in the near future, India’s economic prowess has garnered attention worldwide. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has embarked on various initiatives aimed at spurring economic growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing global cooperation. His visionary leadership has propelled India onto the global stage, with initiatives such as ‘Make in India’, ‘Digital India’, and ‘Skill India’ driving economic growth and innovation across various sectors. These initiatives and India’s remarkable achievements in successful infrastructural development have not only bolstered India’s domestic economy but also have garnered global attention like Central American governments which are now eagerly embracing Indian companies to invest in and bolster their own infrastructural projects.

    In a significant stride toward strengthening infrastructure and economic development, Lakshmi Capital has made significant strides by securing five impactful projects with the Municipality of Xela (Quetzaltenango) in Guatemala, totaling an investment of US $1.2 billion. These projects include a hydroelectric system, cable car system, supply of 700 buses, a waste management plant, and a 75MW solar energy plant in the region. The Municipality of Xela and Laxmi Capital have already signed Letters of Intent for these projects, with processes currently at an advanced stage.

    The delegation enjoyed a ride in a vehicle manufactured by Tata Motors.
    The delegation is acquiring firsthand information about auto manufacturing and supply processes at Ashok Leyland’s facility in Chennai.

    In order to personally witness the progress and impact of these projects and to get valuable insights, Hon’ble Mayor of Xela, Mr. Juan Fernando Lopez has recently visited India to experience live demonstrations of these projects and their technical capabilities in India, which will be replicated during the final implementation of projects in Xela. During his visit, Mayor Lopez engaged with Indian officials, business leaders, and key stakeholders to explore avenues for partnership and collaboration. Site visits to Indian companies and facilities, meetings with industry experts, and discussions on areas of mutual interest formed the core of his agenda, with the aim of forging lasting partnerships that benefit both Xela and India.

    The delegation led by Mayor Juan Fernando Lopez of Municipality of Xela and Mr. Wendal Rodas, CMD, Lakshmi Capital, embarked on a transformative journey through India, exploring opportunities for collaboration and partnership in various sectors. The visit commenced with a visit to the Cable Car System by Usha Breco Ropeways in Haridwar, where the delegation gained insights into innovative transportation solutions. The journey continued with visits to renowned Indian companies, including Force Motors and Tata Motors in Pune and Ashok Leyland in Chennai, where Mayor Lopez witnessed the manufacturing processes of buses and electric vehicles. Impressed by India’s automotive sector development, he expressed enthusiasm for potential collaborations with Indian companies to upgrade Xela’s transportation services. The delegation also explored India’s strides in renewable energy, visiting a solar power plant in Avdi, Tamil Nadu, executed by Bharat Electronics Limited. Mayor Lopez commended India’s significant contribution to promoting renewable energy globally and participated in a tree plantation initiative at the solar power plant, symbolizing his commitment to sustainability. The visit concluded with a tour of a Waste Management Plant in Mumbai, providing insights into waste management practices and operations.

    The delegation concluded with a tour of the Waste Management Plant in Mumbai, where insights into its technicalities and operations were shared.

    Despite a busy schedule, Mayor Lopez took the time to immerse himself in India’s rich history and breathtaking beauty. From the vibrant streets of Delhi to the timeless elegance of the Taj Mahal, the delegation experienced the cultural and architectural wonders of India. Additionally, Mayor Lopez had the enriching experience of immersing himself in Indian spirituality by visiting a Shiva temple on the auspicious occasion of Shivratri, celebrating the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

    The delegation administered manufacturing of vehicles at Eka Motors in Pune.

    Through this journey, Mayor Juan Fernando Lopez and his delegation forged meaningful connections and laid the groundwork for future collaborations between Xela and India. The visit not only highlighted India’s economic and technological advancements but also showcased its rich cultural and historic heritage, leaving a lasting impression on Mayor Lopez and his team. The visit of Mayor Juan Fernando Lopez of Xela, Guatemala, to India holds immense significance in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering collaboration between Xela and India. With a focus on exploring opportunities for investment, technology transfer, and knowledge exchange, Mayor Lopez’s visit aims to deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

    The delegation visited the solar power plant in Avdi, Tamil Nadu getting the information on intricacies of operation of Solar power energy.
    Hon’ble Mayor dedicated time to nurture the environment, planting trees at the Avdi Solar power plant.
  • El Salvador and Lakshmi Capital sign two impactful Infrastructure Projects

    El Salvador and Lakshmi Capital sign two impactful Infrastructure Projects

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): Embassy of India is Guatemala aims to propel indigenous production across diverse sectors following the vision of Prime Minister Modi’s encapsulated in “Make in India” and “India Goes Global”. With a primary emphasis on facilitating business operations, enhancing infrastructure, and upgrading skills, these guiding principles aim to strengthen India’s global footprint. Through strategic collaborations, outreach to investors, and diplomatic efforts, India seeks to assert its influence, promote mutual prosperity, and contribute to shaping a more interconnected and inclusive global landscape. This proactive approach towards bolstering trade and investment with Latin and Central American nations has resulted in strengthened economic bonds and increased collaboration across various sectors. By focusing on expanding market access, fostering technological exchange, and encouraging joint ventures, India is paving the way for deeper engagement with the region. India’s significant role in infrastructural development, particularly in sectors such as transportation, energy, and urban infrastructure, has played a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and development in Central America. As part of these efforts, India is in advanced stages of collaboration with the Government of El Salvador through investments from Lakshmi Capital, an Indian company, to facilitate critical infrastructure projects. These projects include the construction of metro lines and the supply of buses, which will contribute significantly to the region’s socio-economic advancement.

    Ambassador Dr Manoj Kumar Mohapatra with Hon’ble Mr. Ibrahim Bukele during signing of MoUs.

    Recently, Lakshmi Capital, and the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation of the Republic of El Salvador signed a Memorandum of Understanding in San Salvador on 16 February 2023 for construction of 22 km metro line project (extending from initial proposal of 11 kms) in San Salvador. The MoU was signed between Minister Romeo Rodríguez of Ministry of Public Works, Government of Republic of El Salvador and Transportation and Mr. Russell Alexander Luther Rodas of Laxmi Capital in the presence of Ambassador of India in Guatemala, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra. Following thorough technical discussions, the Concession Agreement is anticipated to be signed in the first week of April 2024. A team of Delhi Metro is also scheduled to visit El Salvador from 18-22 March, 2024 to oversee the technicalities of Metro line project in the region.

     

    Extending this collaboration to improve the infrastructural development in the region and with proactive approach of the El Salvadorian Government, the parties also signed another MoU to supply 5000 buses on 22nd February 2024. These milestones will pave the way for a visit by a delegation led by Hon’ble Mr. Ibrahim Bukele to India to administer technical know-how of these transformative projects. Furthermore, discussions have already been started with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for construction-related matters with regard to metro line project, and with Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors for bus procurement.

    The metro line project and the provision of buses are geared towards revitalizing the economy and modernizing transportation infrastructure in the nation. Under the esteemed guidance and visionary leadership of President-elect Bukele, significant strides are being made by both countries towards realizing the established objectives. This collaborative effort underscores the strengthening bonds of friendship and mutual respect between India and El Salvador, fostering enhanced bilateral relations and mutual prosperity. India remains committed to further collaborating with the Government of El Salvador to advance other agendas such as atomic energy development, initiatives in non-renewable energy, digital transformation, and more.

  • Acclaimed professor of South Asian Literature Dr Kamal Verma passes away

    Acclaimed professor of South Asian Literature Dr Kamal Verma passes away

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Dr Kamal D Verma, an acclaimed scholar of South Asian literature, died of natural causes this week here in the American capital. He would have turned 92 in April.

    Professor Verma taught for 42 years at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (UPJ) in Pennsylvania. After retirement, he continued to serve as Professor Emeritus and an advisor to the University President, focusing on recruiting more diverse faculty and students from South Asia.

    He was also one of the founding members of the South Asian Review and the South Asian Literary Association — two nationally acclaimed scholarly efforts aimed to promote Indian and other South Asian writers and ideas.

    Dr Jem Spectar, President of UPJ, called Dr Verma “a brilliant scholar, an exceptional teacher and guide, a highly respected colleague, and a dear friend”.

    “His students speak of a great intellect: a professor who deepened their critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills, someone who deepened their understanding of our world, and someone whose classes prepared them for lifelong success,” Spectar said.

    Dr Verma was born in 1932 in Punjab, India. He was the eldest child in a large family, and the first member of his extended family to attend college.

    He completed his BA from DAV College, Jalandhar, in 1951, followed by a BA in teaching from Agra University in 1953 and an MA in English from Panjab University in 1958.

    In India, he became the principal of a teacher’s college in Punjab where he served until 1963, when he departed for the United States on a Ford Foundation Fellowship to obtain his Specialist in Education degree at the University of Northern Iowa. He then pursued further professional studies in literature, leading to his PhD from the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada.

    Dr Verma, his wife Savitri, also a teacher and head of a women’s college in India, and their five children settled in Johnstown, Pennsylvania in 1971. They were the first Indian-American family to move to the area.

    Dr Verma’s children pursued varied careers in business, medicine and law. His son Richard would go on to serve as the US Ambassador to India for President Obama, and he currently serves as the Deputy Secretary of State, the highest-ranking Indian American in the State Department ever. Richard Verma was the first ever Indian-American to be US Ambassador to India.

    Verma was in New Delhi last month where he gave a talk at the Observer Research Foundation, and noted how his father, like millions of other Indian Americans, started over from next to nothing, rebuilt in their new country, but maintained and even strengthened ties with India.

    “My father tells a great immigrant story of showing up in the United States with USD 14 and a bus ticket. He left so much behind and he took a big risk. He was brave. And he never let us forget our roots. What an amazing role model we had,” remarked Ambassador Verma.

    “These are the stories and journeys that bind our two countries together.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a letter sent to Ambassador Verma this past week, wrote that Professor Kamal Verma “was a true embodiment of the grit and determination demonstrated by every Indian immigrant.

    He worked hard to give a better life to his family in a foreign country, and at the same time continued to remain true to his Indian roots…and will always be remembered in his homeland.”

    Dr Verma’s writings were widely admired and acclaimed, especially his three published books. His second book, The Indian Imagination, focused on several of the leading writers of the Indian colonial and post-colonial periods of Indian history. His last book, Understanding Mulk Raj Anand, focused on noted Indian writer Mulk Raj Anand and included a series of letters between Dr Verma and Anand over 15 years, focusing again on the ideas that inspired the colonial struggle for independence.

    He released the book in the US and India in 2017 with significant critical success. He even presented the book to Prime Minister Modi in 2018.

    During his career, Dr Verma would end up teaching thousands of students in India, Canada and the United States, and he published dozens of articles, in addition to the three books. Professor Nalini Iyer of Seattle University and the editor of the South Asian Review said: “Dr Verma was a towering figure who had an impact on so many. He paved the way for South Asian scholars and literature in the United States and cared for his family and friends at every turn. He also trained and inspired hundreds of faculty members across the globe in the field of South Asian literature and philosophy. This is a gift for which he will be long remembered.”