The Indian Panorama

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  • Legislator Mulé Sings National Anthem at Suffolk Legislature

    Legislator Mulé Sings National Anthem at Suffolk Legislature

    HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. (TIP): Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé (D – Freeport) had the honor of singing the National Anthem to open the meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday, March 5. Legislator Mulé, a classically trained soprano vocalist who earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the College of William and Mary and currently serves as a cantor at Our Holy Redeemer R.C. Church in Freeport, accepted the invitation from Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin (D – Huntington Station).

    “It is always a privilege to honor our nation with the singing of the National Anthem, and I greatly appreciate Legislator Sanin’s invitation to lead the Suffolk County Legislature in this cherished tradition,” Legislator Mul Legislator Mulé said. “I look forward to future opportunities to collaborate with Legislator Sanin and all of our Suffolk counterparts to tackle the most pressing issues facing our region.”

  • Gobind Munjal elected again as National President of AIA

    Gobind Munjal elected again as National President of AIA

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Gobind Munjal has been elected once again the National President of the oldest Association of Indians in America (AIA) for his 2nd term 2024 & 2025.

    Along with him, his following team members also got elected:

    Vice Presidents:

    • Sushma Kotahwala, past president of AIA NY Chapter,
    • Uma Swaminathan, the founding member and past president of NJ chapter of AIA
    • Santosh Pandey from Chicago, past President of Illinois Chapter,

    Treasurer: Gobind Bathija, President of Asa Mai Temple in Hicksville and well known, community leader

    Secretary: Gunjan Rastogi, Past President of IALI

    Members At Large: 20 in number from various States

  • India Association of Long Island (IALI) Inducts Executive Council under the Leadership of President Pradeep Tandon

    India Association of Long Island (IALI) Inducts Executive Council under the Leadership of President Pradeep Tandon

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): On a wet and rainy evening with a chill in the air, the India Association of Long Island witnessed a momentous occasion at the Hicksville Community Center in Hicksville, New York. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the members of the 46-year-old organization showed immense support, turning the evening into a glittering ceremony.

    The induction ceremony was a testament to the enduring strength of the India Association of Long Island and the unwavering commitment of its members. The show of support from the community added an extra layer of warmth to the chilly evening, turning it into a celebration of unity, diversity, and shared purpose.

    As the organization enters a new chapter with the freshly inducted executive committee, the glittering ceremony symbolizes the continuity of a 46-year legacy and the anticipation of exciting new endeavors. The India Association of Long Island looks forward to continued growth, community engagement, and making a positive impact under the leadership of the new executive committee.

    The evening unfolded with a harmonious start as the Oath Taking Ceremony commenced. The atmosphere resonated with patriotism as Karishma Pahuja, the granddaughter of Dr. Jagan Pahuja, President IALI 1987-1988, led the gathering in singing both the USA and Indian National Anthems.

    Mr. Om Bhambri and Ms. Rita Bhateja, Election Committee members, took the stage to announce the results of the election. The air buzzed with anticipation as they revealed the names of the winning candidates. In a moment of triumph, the entire team emerged victorious with a landslide victory, marking a resounding mandate from the members. The success of the election was not only a testament to the dedication and trust bestowed upon the new executive committee but also a reflection of the unity and solidarity within the India Association of Long Island.

    The event was attended by a remarkable turnout of esteemed guests. Among the distinguished attendees were Past Presidents, elected officials including Hon Joseph Saladino, Supervisor of the Town of Oyster Bay, Hon Jennifer DeSena, North Hempstead Town Supervisor, Harry Malhotra, Director of South Asian Business and Development of the Town of Oyster Bay, and Bobby Kalotee, Chairman of the Human Rights Commission Nassau County Advisory Board, alongside association members and their spouses.

    The ceremony garnered extensive media coverage, with TV ASIA, ITV GOLD, and other prominent outlets capturing the essence of this significant event. The presence of such influential figures reflected the importance and impact of the India Association of Long Island in the community.
    Dr. Krishan Jhaveri, a distinguished member of the association, took the stage to introduce Secretary Dr. Neeru Bhambri, a dedicated member for 35 years, who has held various positions within IALI. Dr. Bhambri, in her welcoming address, expressed gratitude to all the guests for contributing to the success of the event. She pledged to serve with full motivation, professionalism, and transparency as the Secretary of IALI in 2024.

    Dr. Jhaveri extended an invitation to Past President Ms. Gunjan Rastogi, who, in turn, delivered a captivating introduction to President Pradeep Tandon.

    The administration of the oath was a solemn moment led by Hon. Jennifer DeSena, the Supervisor of the Town of North Hempstead in Nassau County, Long Island.

    The ceremony commenced with the swearing-in of Pradeep Tandon as the President of IALI, a moment marked by significance and celebration. Two captivating pictures capture the essence of this pivotal moment, showcasing the commitment of President Tandon to lead IALI into a new era.

    Following President Tandon’s oath, the stage was set for the induction of two other key officers. Dr. Neeru Bhambri took the oath of office as the Secretary, while Anjana Kashyap assumed the responsibilities of Treasurer.

    Mr. Sushil Khanna, Vice President, did not take the oath as he was on vacation.

  • NYS INSPECTOR GENERAL ANNOUNCES THE SENTENCING OF MONROE COUNTY MAN WHO FRAUDULENTLY OBTAINED $16,000 IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BENEFITS

    NEW YORK (TIP): New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang announced the sentencing of Brian Simpson, 55, of Monroe County, who defrauded the State Workers’ Compensation System of more than $16,000. Simpson, who had previously pled guilty on December 20, 2023, to one count of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the Second Degree, a Class A Misdemeanor, was sentenced yesterday by the Honorable Thomas J. DiSalvo in Webster Town Court to a term of three years’ probation and ordered to pay full restitution.

    “This outrageous abuse undermines the integrity of the Workers’ Compensation System – a critical safety net designed to enable injured workers to provide for themselves and their families,” said Inspector General Lucy Lang. “My office will continue to proactively root out fraud and other abuses of this system to ensure that these crucial funds will remain available for those truly in need.”

    The Inspector General’s investigation established that between April 11, 2022, and March 3, 2023, Simpson made multiple misrepresentations to examining physicians and submitted inaccurate paperwork to the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF) regarding his inability to work during the covered period. More specifically, despite asserting that he was not working since sustaining an alleged workplace injury, the investigation established that Simpson was in fact actively working as a bus driver for First Transit, Inc. while collecting workers’ compensation benefits. As a result of his misrepresentations, Simpson fraudulently obtained benefits in the amount of $16,764.78.

    Inspector General Lang thanked the members of her staff responsible for handling this investigation, including Investigator Erynn Migaj, former Investigator Mark LaMonte, Investigative Auditor Kaitlyn Gibbons, and Investigative Counsel Phil Druss, under the supervision of Deputy Inspector General Jeffrey Hagan and Chief Investigator Martin Stanford.

    Inspector General Lang also expressed her gratitude to the New York State Insurance Fund for its partnership in the investigation, the New York State Police for assisting with Simpson’s arrest, and Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley and her office for their diligent work prosecuting this matter.

  • Nassau County Democratic Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton comments on County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s Lawsuit Against Attorney General Tish James

    Nassau County Democratic Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton comments on County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s Lawsuit Against Attorney General Tish James

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau University Medical Center is quickly running out of the money needed to operate, a situation that demands immediate and focused attention. Instead of addressing this, County Executive Blakeman has decided to engage in political theatrics that serve no purpose other than to distract from his administration’s failures. County Executive Blakeman’s choice to pursue this lawsuit over the welfare of Nassau County’s residents is a dereliction of duty. His job is to serve the taxpayers of this county, not to engage in costly and unnecessary legal fights on issues that distract from his fundamental responsibilities. I am baffled that County Executive Blakeman is standing idly by while his appointed hospital chair is declining $83 million in emergency State funding that could save the hospital in exchange for common sense reforms. This mistake puts every taxpayer on the hook for nearly $120 million in hospital debt Nassau County has guaranteed. It’s time for the County Executive to cease his grandstanding and begin the work he was elected to do—focusing on the urgent needs of our community and ensuring the stability of the County’s only safety net healthcare system.

  • FORMER NYS CORRECTION OFFICER PLEADS GUILTY AFTER FRAUDULENTLY COLLECTING MORE THAN $35,000 IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BENEFITS

    FORMER NYS CORRECTION OFFICER PLEADS GUILTY AFTER FRAUDULENTLY COLLECTING MORE THAN $35,000 IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BENEFITS

    NEW YORK (TIP): New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang announced the guilty plea of Charles Epps, a former New York State Correction Officer who collected over $35,000 in workers’ compensation indemnity benefits to which he was not entitled.

    Epps, 56, of Buffalo, pleaded guilty yesterday in Erie County Court before Honorable Paul B. Wojtaszek to Insurance Fraud in the 3rd degree and Grand Larceny in the 3rd degree, both of which are class D felony charges under NYS Penal Law.

    Prompted by a referral from the NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), the Inspector General’s investigation established that on May 8, 2020, Epps claimed to have been injured while working at the Wende Correctional Facility in Alden, NY. He subsequently made a claim for workers’ compensation benefits and in July 2020 went out of work claiming a disability from the May injury. Epps received lost wage payments from DOCCS and the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF) from July 2020 to November 2022.

    While he collected indemnity benefits, Epps completed NYSIF Work Activity Reports and Independent Medical Examination questionnaires which falsely represented a lack of work activity. The Inspector General’s investigation revealed, however, that Epps began working as a motor coach operator for New York Trailways during this time period and was regularly assigned to operate a roundtrip bus route between Buffalo and New York City.

    As a result of his misrepresentations to NYSIF, Epps fraudulently obtained $35,544.67 in workers’ compensation benefits. Additionally, a related investigation by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General (SSA OIG) uncovered that Epps also fraudulently collected $16,907.40 in Social Security Disability benefits through concealment of his employment as a bus driver.

    Epps was terminated from DOCCS during the investigation.

    “All New Yorkers should be outraged that DOCCS is facing a daily staffing crisis due in large part to abuses of the Workers’ Compensation system,” said Inspector General Lucy Lang. “That this correction officer was uniquely situated to understand the impact that his unjustified absence posed to the safety of staff and incarcerated individuals alike, but still prioritized his own self-interest is unconscionable.”

    “In addition to pleading guilty yesterday, I am pleased to announce that this defendant has been ordered to pay back the money he stole from the taxpayers of New York,” said Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn. “I would like to thank the New York State Inspector General’s Office and the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision for their work on this investigation and their partnership with my office. Together, we will continue to uncover the criminals who defraud the state systems that help the injured and disabled and hold them accountable for their crimes.”

    Inspector General Lang thanked the members of her staff responsible for handling this important matter, including Investigator Erynn Migaj, Senior Investigator Maren Robinson-Traber, former investigator Mark LaMonte, and Investigative Counsel Jill Florkowski, under the supervision of Deputy Inspector General Jeffrey Hagen and Chief Investigator Martin Stanford.

    Inspector General Lang also thanked the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General for their partnership on this case, the DOCCS Office of Special Investigations for their referral, and the New York State Insurance Fund for their cooperation. Lang also thanked Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn and his office for their diligent work prosecuting this matter.

  • Mridangam Maestro T. S. Nandakumar: A Cultural Ambassador of India

    Mridangam Maestro T. S. Nandakumar: A Cultural Ambassador of India

    By Ajay Ghosh

    BRIDGEWATER, NJ (TIP): Well known around the world for his mastery of the Mridangam, a percussion instrument that is a primary rhythmic accompaniment in Carnatic music ensemble, and with expertise in various other percussion instruments, including  konnakol (vocal percussion), thavil, ghatam, kanjira, and morsing, T. S. Nandakumar is a world renowned south Indian music artist, showcasing his versatility in Carnatic music, has devoted his entire life to the cause of popularizing Indian classical music around the world.

    T. Shankaranarayanan Nandakumar, popularly known as “TSN” has played a pivotal role in spreading the knowledge about Indian drums, particularly the mridangam in the United States through his stage performances at prestigious orchestras, participation in global music events, educational initiatives and contributions, collaborations, global impact, and philanthropic endeavors. He has demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility through charity work, including organizing a 24-hour non-stop Akanda Seva Bhajan in aid of India’s tsunami victims.

    T. Shankaranarayanan Nandakumar is being honored.

    Nandakumar’s belief that “Music is like a horizon which is never ending and has no boundaries” has enabled him to take music wherever he went. TSN’s participation in international festivals and workshops has contributed to the global awareness of Indian percussion, showcasing the richness of Indian drumming traditions and  providing a platform for cross-cultural exchange. By actively participating in musical collaborations and performances in the United States, TSN not only showcases the beauty of the mridangam but also educates audiences about the intricacies and significance of this traditional Indian percussion instrument.

    As a percussionist, TSN has accompanied luminaries in Carnatic music, including Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, M. D. Ramanathan, Bhimsen Joshi, T. N. Krishnan, M. Balamuralikrishna and others. His role as an accompanist has greatly enhanced the events with the performances of these eminent artists.

    Through his musical engagements, TSN engages in a form of cultural diplomacy, fostering an appreciation for Indian music and drumming traditions. This indirect form of education occurs as audiences experience the artistry and cultural depth of the mridangam during performances.

    “Through music you can reach god,” says Nandakumar and wants to spread this path to the Almighty. Not satisfied with his own mastery of classical Indian music, TSN took upon himself the mission to spread Carnatic music around the world. He established TSN’s Percussive Arts Centre. Inc (TSNPAC), where students are trained in diverse instruments. Since its inception in 1998 in Mumbai, India, TSNPAC has evolved into a hub for students to refine their skills and collaborate within the realm of Carnatic arts.  Upon migrating to New Jersey, USA, TSN seamlessly incorporated TSNPAC, offering courses in higher learning for Carnatic percussion enthusiasts in the United States. Today, TSNPAC stands as a beacon for aspiring artists seeking to master the intricacies of Carnatic percussion. It’s well known around the world that through TSNPAC, TSN has played a very important role in teaching and training students in diverse percussion instruments, including the mridangam. In addition, Internationally famous musical institutions have tapped into TSN’s expertise, hosting his performances and though his highly acclaimed special, lectures in percussive arts.

    Performing at the Thyagaraja Festival is a prestigious and culturally significant experience for Carnatic musicians. The Thyagaraja Aradhana is an annual music festival held to commemorate the legendary Carnatic composer Saint Thyagaraja. TSNPAC conducts Thyagaraja Festival to commemorate the legendary Carnatic composer Saint Thyagaraja. Thyagaraja Aaradhana Festival in Cleveland, Ohio, which is the largest Indian classical music festival outside of India.

    “I feel very good about my accomplishment in spreading my knowledge about music to everyone. I have students all over the world, students of Indian origin and from other nationalities, some of them have become full time musicians and are accompanying renowned artists,” Nandakumar says with pride. TSNPAC, in addition to providing training to music enthusiasts, has successfully organized numerous annual events by notable artists in Carnatic music, including luminaries such as K J Yesudas, N. Rajam, N. Ramani, A. Kanyakumari, and L. Subramaniam.

    Mridangam Arangetrams are held annually at TSNPAC, where graduating students perform along with accomplished artists, without prior rehearsal, which is a unique approach that serves as a culminating experience for their graduation from the Center.

    The festival is characterized by an atmosphere of devotion, celebrating the profound impact Thyagaraja had on the Carnatic music tradition. Musicians engaged in marathon music sessions, presenting a repertoire of kritis (compositions) composed by Thyagaraja. The festival features continuous music performances, creating an immersive experience for both performers and the audience.

    TSNPAC’s significant milestones include a decennial celebration marked by a grand performance featuring over 100 students. The center conducts Mridangam Arangetram annually, where students, without prior rehearsal, accompany main artists like A. Kanyakumari, culminating in a graduation ceremony. Notably, TSNPAC’s influence extends globally, with 108 professional student performances, including drumming, at the Cleveland Thyagaraja festival. Many of his students have achieved high accolades as professionals and have become graded artists by All India Radio. They follow in his footsteps by training their own students in the style of TSN and continuing to promote Carnatic percussive arts.

    In addition to training students of South Asian students, several artists from the West, who are now well known for their expertise in Carnatic Music include: Paula Jeanine, Todd Isler, Johann Berby, Guillaume Barraud, Will Calhoun, Bill Buchen, Lenora Zenzlai Helm, and Bernhard Schimpelsberger.

    TSN’s discography, featuring solo performances and collaborations with various artists, serves as a valuable resource for those interested in Indian percussion. His recorded works contribute to the preservation and dissemination of this musical knowledge. His album, “Jewels of Rhythm” by his ensemble has earned him high accolades. Nandakumar composed and released Jewels of Rhythm Vol 1, Jewels of Rhythm Vol 2 and Jewels of Rhythm Vol 3 which were performed by his students. Vibrative Rhythms by TSN is a fusion of Carnatic, Hindustani, and Western music as a one-man ensemble of mridangam, konnakol, thavil, ghatam, kanjira and the morsing played by himself.

    Author of several books, with the objective of educating students to the themes of Indian Percussive Arts, TSN is currently working on writing books that covers advanced topics.

    Son of Shrimati Saraswati and Shri Balakrishna Panicker, a great supporter of the arts as member of the Devaswom board in Kerala and actively involved in promoting Carnatic devotional music in temples and organizing concerts, TSN was born in the village of Ambalappuzha in Kerala, India. As a child, he was fascinated with the rhythmic chants and bhajans that would emanate from the various temples, was introduced to his Guru, Shri Kaithavana Madhavadas, where he was trained in the gurukula samprada tradition of Carnatic music. Nandakumar soon became a ‘Laya Vidwan’ due to his mastery of Carnatic percussive components: Laya, Raaga, Thaala and Bhava .

    “At a very early age I started learning mridangam (A South Indian Classical Carnatic double-sided drum) because I was fascinated about percussion and its beats when my uncle’s (Shri Amabalapuzha Brothers) concert was held in the temple where I used to put Thalam,” recalls Nandakumar. “When I started learning I enjoyed playing mridangam and other percussion instruments. I was so passionate about it that I got into teaching mridangam and other percussion instruments and making people aware about the importance of music.”

    As a young prodigy, TSN gained a reputation as an accompanist to renowned Carnatic musicians such as Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, M.D. Ramanathan, S. Ramanathan, R. K. Srikantan, V. Dakshinamurthy, Bhimsen Joshi, N. Ramani, M. Balamuralikrishna, T. N. Krishnan, K. J. Yesudas, N. Rajam, T. K. Govindarao, Nedunuri Krishnanmurthy, T. V. Gopalakrishnan, Parassala . B. Ponnamal, A. Kanyakumari, M. Chandrasekaran, D. K. Jayaraman, B. V. Raman, B. V. Lakshmanan and many others.

    In his recognition of his great accomplishments, he was honored with The Lifetime Achievement Award by the Shanti Foundation in Chennai. He was awarded the “Best Teacher Award” from several organizations with the most prominent being awarded by Shanmukhananda Fine Arts and the Cleveland Thygaraja Aaradhana Festival and by the Shanmukhananda Fine Arts, Sangeetha Sabha, Mumbai in 2007, Bharat Ratna Dr. M. S. Subbulakshmi Sangeetha Pracharya Award), and Visionary Award by Academy of Indian Music, USA.

    Acknowledging contributions to the world of music, TSNPAC has bestowed prestigious titles upon distinguished artists. In 2022, the center conferred the title “Ranjakagayakasiromanih” (The Crown Jewel among those singers whose music is charming) upon the legendary K J Yesudas. A. Kanyakumari was honored with the title “Sasvatanadavidushi” (One Who Is Adept in Music Which Is Ishvara).

    Dedicating his entire life to the spreading of Carnatic Music, Nandakumar has been highly sought after as a teacher in India as well as abroad. In Mumbai, TSN trained students at large institutions like Shanmukhananda Fine Arts, Chembur Fine Arts, Gana kala, Music Triangle and Naadalaya.

    He has conducted several musical concerts, lectures, demonstrations, and workshops at universities in the United States abroad like Lamar University of Houston and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. TSN also spent some time conducting special classes in percussive arts at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Pittsburgh, the Academy of Indian Music in New Jersey and Switzerland. He also conducted 24 hours nonstop Akanda Seva Bhajan (Offered a Prayer through the medium of music) with his students in Mumbai for the tsunami affected victims of India.

    He continues to provide opportunities for his students to perform by conducting seminars specific to accompaniment to other Indian art forms, such as Bharatnatyam Dance recitals and vocal or instrumental concerts, as well as through  Talent Exposure Concert Series which are published on YouTube to give students a forum to display their prowess.

    Beyond geographical confines, TSNPAC continues to host performances not only in New Jersey but also in various parts of the United States. As a nurturing ground for Carnatic percussion, TSNPAC’s legacy embodies a commitment to excellence, providing a platform for students to explore and flourish in the rich tapestry of Carnatic music.

    Looking back into his life’s mission, Nandakumar says, “My aim of contributing to Carnatic music by spreading knowledge has successful and I forever am indebted to my parents and my teacher. I feel even more proud that some of my students have become masters of mridangam and it’s an honor knowing that the knowledge I shared with my students is now spreading to around the world, imparting to many generations.”

    TSN’s commitment to promoting local talent and fostering cultural exchange remains unwavering. He has invited senior artists from India for the upcoming TSNPAC annual events with the objective of creating a global stage for collaborative performances.

    Don’t miss this cultural extravaganza that promises to transcend boundaries and create lasting memories. Join us for an unforgettable musical journey at Sri Balaji Temple in Bridgewater.

    Prepare to be captivated by a Rhythmic Extravaganza, an enchanting spectacle of rhythm, melody, and cultural celebration as T. S. Nandakumar (TSN), the maestro of Carnatic percussion presents an extraordinary event at Sri Balaji Temple in Bridgewater on March 17, 2024, from 9 am to 1 pm.

    Event Highlights:

    • Multifaceted Performances: Join different groups of percussionists, including students of TSN, along with talented musicians playing Violin, Flute, Veena, and Vocal.
    • Diverse Instruments: Experience the soul-stirring sounds of Mridangam, Ghatam, Kanjira, Morsing, Thavil, and Konnakol, creating a symphony of percussion.
    • Artistic Fusion: Enjoy dance recitals by students of TSN, mastering Nattuvangam, a South Indian rhythmic recitation, and percussion, creating a seamless fusion of arts.
    • Music Cum Percussion Ensemble: Be part of a unique ensemble featuring students across age groups, showcasing the rich diversity of talents from ages 4 to 60.
    • Book Release: Witness the unveiling of TSN’s latest book, a testament to his deep-rooted knowledge and contribution to Carnatic percussion.

    Distinguished Chief Guest: Dr. Venkataraman Swaminathan, a revered musicologist, will grace the occasion, releasing TSN’s book and adding to the cultural richness of the event.

    Star Performance: TSN himself will take the stage in the climax, inspiring and boosting the spirits of the budding talents.

    For more details, please visit: http://mridangam.info

  • US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma meets Indian officials to advance global strategic partnership

    US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma meets Indian officials to advance global strategic partnership

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma has met with senior Indian ministers and officials in New Delhi to advance the US-India global strategic partnership and ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region, according to his spokesperson.

    Verma, the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, is the highest-ranking Indian American in the State Department. The former US Ambassador to India was on an official visit to India from February 19 to 21.

    He met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Defense Secretary Giridhar Aramane, and Deputy National Security Advisor Vikram Misri in New Delhi, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said here on Thursday.

    Verma’s meetings explored opportunities to strengthen US-India cooperation and people-to-people ties to ensure a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, Miller said.

    He also met with Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal to discuss further expanding trade and economic ties between the US and India. “The Deputy Secretary and Indian officials further emphasized the benefits of close partnership on addressing global issues,” Miller said.

    Verma is on a six-day official visit to India, Sri Lanka and Maldives till Friday to strengthen bilateral ties with the nations, reaffirming America’s enduring commitment to a free, open, secure, and prosperous region.

  • Indian Embassy and consulate officials interact with Indian students from across US

    Indian Embassy and consulate officials interact with Indian students from across US

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Officials of the Indian Embassy here and its consulates held a virtual interaction with Indian students from across the US, discussing various aspects of student well-being and ways to stay connected with the larger diaspora. About 150 Indian Student Association office bearers and students from 90 US universities participated in the interaction led by Charge d’Affaires, Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan.

    It was also attended by the Consul Generals of India in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, New York, San Francisco and Seattle. The meeting gains significance in the backdrop of some deaths of Indian and Indian-origin students at universities across the US. During the meeting, Ranganathan highlighted ways to stay connected with the Embassy/Consulates and the larger Indian diaspora.

    Students were urged to spread the word amongst fellow Indian students in the US about the guidelines issued by the Embassy and the consulates for students studying in the US, including registration on its websites, general aspects related to student safety and well-being, and emergency contact details of the Indian diplomatic missions.

    The students presented useful suggestions on synergizing the efforts of the Embassy/consulates, university authorities, diaspora organizations and other stakeholders.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Leading Indian drone manufacturer enters US market

    Leading Indian drone manufacturer enters US market

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): India’s drone industry has “leapfrogged” in the last 10 years, gaining pace after the COVID-19 pandemic, the CEO of a leading Indian drone manufacturer has said as his company has showcased its products in the highly competitive US market. Indian drone manufacturing company IdeaForge, ranked fifth globally in the dual-use category of civil and defense, is entering the American drone market at a time when there is a reluctance to buy or acquire those made in China.
    Ankit Mehta, the CEO of IdeaForge, told PTI Videos in an interview that the Indian drone industry has “leapfrogged in the last 10 years with an enabling environment from the Indian government.” He said the sector gained pace after the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “I think before the pandemic, the rules and regulations around drones were fairly stringent, and they did not allow a lot of flexibility in terms of use and deployment,” Mehta said.

    “But since the pandemic, the floodgates, in a way, have opened the adoption of technology, which has become wholehearted. Now people want to deploy drones for as many use cases as possible,” he said.

    Drones had very restrictive regulations earlier, he said. “Now those regulations have become a little bit more relaxed in terms of allowing the use of drones under a regulated environment, which is conducive for operations.”

    “Therefore, we are seeing a lot of intent in terms of adopting the technology, and we are seeing a lot of regulatory support for doing that,” Mehta said.

    “We also have in India a production-linked incentive scheme for drones. We have the fact that there is a ban on import of technology from outside so that Indian companies can develop the technology and be overall in an environment where we can demonstrate the capability of what Indian companies can do in this space,” he said.

    Asserting the distinctiveness of Indian drones, he said, “I think Indian drones are very unique in the sense that they’ve been built in some of the harshest environments and the highest altitude requirements in the world.”

    “With the operations being conducted in India at 6,000 meters plus altitude due to the various regions we have in our country in the Himalayas, to operate in extremely low temperatures like minus 30 degrees Celsius and also looking at drones that can operate in deserts in Rajasthan,” he said.

    “So, we are essentially a country that has a very large number of terrain conditions and weather conditions we have to cater to when we are looking at drones. We also have a lot of use cases and applications that exist simultaneously in one place,” he said.

    Giving examples of applications around traffic management, crowd management, counterinsurgency, counter-terrorism, and border management Mehta said, “All of these challenges are quite acute, and there are a lot of challenges around not having proper land records, and many such applications are being developed in India, and they’re being used and deployed at scale.”

    Mehta is travelling to various cities in the US for product demonstrations to export different kinds of drones to the country. One of which was held in the Washington DC National Capital region here on Thursday.

    “We are seeing a lot of excitement about what we have on offer. The autonomy we offer again is very, very interesting and exciting for people, and we are currently engaging in getting as many demonstrations as we can and getting more real-world experience in the hands of the users over here. So that can localize our products better as well as give a flavor of our technology to everybody here,” Mehta told PTI.

    “For example, one of our products, Netra V 4 Pro, is a one-of-a-kind product that, in less than six kilograms, offers more than 90 minutes of flying time in the real world along with payloads. That is something that is not very common,” he said.

    “It is almost three times more than what is usually available in the market. In that sense, there is a lot of delight in when they actually see a product perform in that kind of condition, in that kind of real-world performance,” he added.

    Following one of the product demonstrations here, along with his team, Mehta said the idea is to showcase their technology over here and to look at what kind of uses the technology can put over here.

    IdeaForge, set up in 2007 by a group of Mumbai IITians , can bring the experience they are gaining in India, he said. “We have had our customers use our drones in over 420,000 missions within IdeaForge drones, flying almost every five minutes in India,” he said.

    “It’s really a rich experience that we can bring to the table here, and we see a lot of commonalities with respect to very low temperatures, very high temperatures, and some high-altitude areas over here as well,” Mehta said.

    “What we are building here to deploy at scale in India could be very, very useful in these environments as well,” he added. When asked about India purchasing armed drones from General Atomics for its armed forces at the cost of nearly USD 4 billion, Mehta said it would need sustained long-term investment from relevant sectors, including the Indian Government, to reach that level of manufacturing such drones.

    “Manpower is definitely not a debate because India does have some of the best talent. In fact, a lot of our best talent is here building a lot of these technologies,” Mehta said. Observing that the government has done a great job building the proper regulations for the drone ecosystem, Mehta said there is now a need to sustain these investments in areas like the production-linked incentive scheme.

    “We need to enhance it, and we need to give more encouragement. It is a one-of-a-kind scheme that does a lot of support to design incentives for drone companies because, in a way, it gives a lot of R and D (research and development) capital back to every company that is doing more value addition in the country,” he said.

    “A lot of upfront R and D capital needs to be allocated for this technology space, and that’s an area where some effort and support will be required for the drone ecosystem because a lot of times, incentives like the production-linked incentive are great to boost scale and to do more for players who are already achieved a certain scale,” he said.

    However, Mehta said that a lot of R and D capital for designing many subsystems in the country would be very useful for the overall benefit and development of the ecosystem.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Inspired by the Sikh notion of oneness, says Indian American running for Congress

    Inspired by the Sikh notion of oneness, says Indian American running for Congress

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Krystle Kaul, a noted Indian American defense and national security expert, says her running for the US Congress is inspired by the Sikh tradition of oneness and a strong sense of giving back to the community. “I am half Kashmiri Pandit and half Punjabi Sikh. I am very proud of both of my cultural backgrounds. Growing up in America, being bicultural is something unique and something that I have embraced. My grandparents and my parents have embedded that in me. I am proud to stand today as the first ever Kashmiri Pandit to stand for Congress and also as the only Sikh woman to currently run for Congress in the country,” Krystle told PTI in a recent interview.

    Kaul, who speaks nine languages – English, Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, Spanish, Italian, Arabic, Dari and Kashmiri — is running from the 10th Congressional District of Virginia. The incumbent Jennifer Wexton, a Democrat, is not seeking re-election, therefore making it an open seat.

    “My Nani (grandmother) Vimal Chaddha Malik used to take me to Glen Cove Gurdwara in Long Island, New York. There I would serve langar. I learned a lot about Sikh traditions and the notion of oneness. I’m proud of that. That’s something that has given me a very strong sense of community and giving back and is one of the core values that I embrace in my bid for Congress,” she said.

    “At the core of the tenets of Sikhism is this idea of feeding your community, of service, of making sure that everyone has what they need and that is reflective. If you go to Amritsar, for example, to the Golden Temple, you see that everyone gets fed at the Golden Temple. The halwa there is also the best in the world, I think,” she said.

    “It’s just a really beautiful concept to see in the community there on a micro level and one that can be scaled internationally and that can be embraced here in Virginia District 10. So again, I’m very proud of both sides of my heritage being Hindu and Sikh, and very proud of the fact that I stand again as the only Sikh woman running for Congress in the country today because we need representation and that’s important,” Kaul said.

    Notably, Dalip Singh Saund was the first Indian American, a Sikh, to be elected to the US House of Representatives from the 29th Congressional District of California for three terms beginning in 1957.

    In the current Congress, there are five Indian Americans in the House of Representatives: Dr Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Pramila Jayapal and Shri Thanedar. Jayapal is the first ever and only Indian American woman to be elected to the House of Representatives.

    Dalip Singh Saund is often a name that gets forgotten, Krystle said.

    “Today we focus heavily on the five Indian American members who were in Congress, but preceding all of them was this one Sikh man who came in as an outlier and was able to get the mass community support in his district at a time when we were such a new immigrant community in this country. That’s something that I’m proud of and one that I think is very notable,” she said.

    Despite doing well in various fields in the US, the Sikh community is not seen much in politics, she noted. “The Sikh community has done very well as the Indian American community, but as a subgroup. In terms of education, in terms of business and engineering, and IT and medicine across the board,” she said.

    “This group definitely needs representation. Of course, there have been a lot of cases of discrimination against Sikhs, which is very unfortunate,” Kaul said.

    Responding to a question, Krystle said there have been a lot of cases of discrimination against Sikhs, which is very unfortunate. “I’ve seen it in my district, I’ve seen it in Virginia, and I’ve seen it at a national level. I say repeatedly, it doesn’t matter (how much is) your bank balance, it doesn’t matter how prominent you are, if you’re a Sikh man, you wear a turban. It’s a visible thing that you wear and something that can be used against you in terms of a hate crime,” she pointed out.

    There is a need to create more awareness and understanding that this is something that is part of a religion and one that should be respected, she said.

    “That is through education, through awareness, and that comes from representation. When you have people in Congress who say, hey, I stand up proudly to be a Sikh and this is not okay, you cannot do this. That’s when people start to listen. I think that’s something that I want to advocate,” she added.

    Kaul said her campaign is doing good and she is running a genuine, authentic and grassroots campaign. “I have the most cash on hand today. I came out very strong in Q4 with USD 567,000 in cash on hand surpassing all candidates by a lot. They told me I couldn’t do it. They often underestimate you as a woman, as a woman of color and particularly as they see women. I worked really hard,” she said.

    “Along with cash on hand, I also have a very strong and growing team. I have a team that’s right now 85 plus and growing. A lot of great top firms, and amazing staff that I have on hand, but also a volunteer team that exceeds 50 in several districts, in several states and also nationally who are really inspired. A lot of them are young Indian American girls in particular, which I’m really proud of, a lot of young Sikh girls for example,” Kaul said.

    “I also have a very multicultural growing volunteer base of Latinos, people from different communities,” she said, asserting that it “showcases a strong base”.

    She said she spoke at the Sikh International Film Festival in New York where she got to interact with filmmakers, the heads of Sikhs for America, the Punjabi Chamber of Commerce, and the Sikh Chamber of Commerce.

    “I’ve got a lot of support from very many prominent Sikhs, again locally and nationally. And that has also felt great just from a community standpoint and one that is tied to my cultural roots,” she said.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Nikki Haley makes a compelling pitch to South Carolina voters ahead of key primary in home state

    Nikki Haley makes a compelling pitch to South Carolina voters ahead of key primary in home state

    CHARLESTON, SC (TIP): Indian-American presidential candidate Nikki Haley on Friday, February 23, made a compelling argument to fellow Republicans in South Carolina, on the eve of the crucial primary elections, with many of her supporters saying that she is the best bet for the US right now.

    Several Indian Americans who attended her political rally in her home state of South Carolina on the eve of the Republican presidential primary said that Haley would be the best person to lead the United States.

    With fingers crossed, given that former president Donald Trump is leading by over 22 percentage points, these Indian Americans were confident that Haley, 52, would continue her presidential campaign after Saturday and go up to the GOP convention.

    Even as Haley, a two-time former governor of South Carolina, has bridged the gap — once was more than 30 per cent — with Trump in South Carolina, the national media has virtually written her off and believes that the former president and her ex-boss would be the eventual nominee of the Republican Party.

    Haley and her team do not believe so. “In a general election, you’re given a choice. In a primary election, you make your choice,” she said.

    “This is the time for us to make our choice,” Haley, a former US ambassador to the UN, told her supporters numbering a couple of hundred at the Patriots Point site in Charleston, South Carolina ahead of Saturday’s Republican primary.

    “We can either do more of the same, and more of the same is not just Joe Biden, more of the same is Donald Trump, or we can elect a new generational leader that will lead us forward with solutions for the future,” she said, asserting that she is not leaving the race.

    “Some people in the media thought I would drop out of the race. Well, I’m not. Far from it,” she said.

    Haley said it is time to bring back normalcy to the US. “Our kids deserve to know what normal feels like. Joe Biden calls anybody who doesn’t support him fascist. And Donald Trump calls anybody who doesn’t support a vermin. That’s not normal,” she said.

    “Nikki is giving hope to the millions to make the change, which is needed. You could see the energy there,” said Arun Aggarwal, a longtime supporter and friend of the Republican presidential candidate.

    If elected, she would be the first-ever female and first-ever Indian-American president of the United States.

    Haley was born Nimarata Nikki Randhawa in South Carolina to immigrant Sikh parents from Amritsar, Punjab.

    “The speech was phenomenal. This was exactly the message she has been sharing with the voters over the last year,” Preya Samsundar, an Indian-American woman who attended the rally, told PTI.

    “Americans are concerned about what’s going around them every single day. As she said the world is on fire,” she said. Prittany Martinas, a young girl attending the Haley rally, said the former two-term governor of South Carolina is a common-sense conservative and brings hope to the people of the United States.

    “She is the leader that our generation needs. She is going to lead us in the right direction when it comes to the economy when it comes to reducing crime, reducing inflation. I think she is exactly what was needed in this new generation of leadership,” Prittany told PTI.

    “The one major difference here that we should focus on is that Nikki Haley gives us hope. Donald Trump does not give us hope,” said Elizabeth Smith, another woman participant at the rally.

    Meanwhile, Trump continued with his attack on Haley. Addressing a huge gathering of his supporters, Trump said “Tomorrow, you will cast one of the most important votes of your entire life.”

    He alleged that Haley is relying on Democrats and liberals and that the Democrats are financing her campaign.

    “Nikki Haley is not in this race to fight for you, she’s in the bidding for big donors, or maybe she wants to get a contract on CNN,” he said.

    He told his supporters not to vote for Haley. “A vote for Nikki Haley tomorrow is a vote for Joe Biden this November…A vote for Trump is a vote to FIRE Crooked Joe…,” Trump said.

    “So if you want a president who puts America first, then defeat Nikki Haley…fire Crooked Joe and elect your favorite president: Donald J. Trump,” he told the cheering crowd.

    In a conference call with reporters, Nikki Haley for President campaign manager Betsy Ankney announced a seven-figure ad buy across Super Tuesday states, the latest sign that Haley is moving full steam ahead.

    The ad buy consists of cable TV and digital platforms and will play in Super Tuesday states as 874 delegates are up for grabs on Tuesday, March 5.

    “History and the polls show that Trump cannot win. And thinking that Trump can somehow cobble together the winning coalition that propelled him to victory in 2016 against an enfeebled Joe Biden is just a pipe dream. Let’s look at what he’s done in just the last month,” Ankney said.

    “He has called women stupid. He has cozied up to dictators. He has encouraged Putin to invade Europe. He disparaged members of the military. And he also has spent USD 58 million in campaign contributions on his personal court cases.

    He lost Independents in New Hampshire by 22 points. He has done and said nothing that is going to bring back the demographics that our party has lost. They know who he is and they don’t like him. And they have rejected him in every single election since 2016,” she said.

    The Haley spokesperson said that there is a reason Biden and the Democrats want to run against Trump. “They know they can beat him. Again. If Trump is the nominee, the House is gone. If Trump is the nominee, the Senate map automatically shrinks from 8 or 9 targets to 3 – and keep in mind this is the best Senate map Republicans have for the rest of the decade,” Ankney told reporters.

  • Infosys CEO Salil Parekh joins USISPF Board

    Infosys CEO Salil Parekh joins USISPF Board

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP) : Salil Parekh, CEO and managing director at Infosys, has joined the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum as a member of its board of directors.

    An industry veteran with nearly three decades in the IT services industry, executing business turnarounds and managing successful acquisitions, Parekh, in his capacity as Infosys CEO, sets the strategic direction of one of India’s most notable IT giants while nurturing a strong leadership team to drive its execution.

    Salil’s recent addition to the USISPF Board accentuates the success story of Indian IT giants in the US For years. Infosys has been a household name in India, and IT services are one of India’s biggest exports to the United States, said USISPF president and CEO Mukesh Aghi.

    In an era of digital economy and digital trade, Infosys’ success in the US is a testimony to the growing synergy in tech ties and how India’s robust tech talent plays an integral part in strengthening and growing the tech sector in the United States, Aghi said.

    USISPF chairman John Chambers said Salil and Infosys’ participation on the USISPF Board will help forge a critical reliance for the two economies by consolidating digital trade, ultimately further establishing India as an innovation partner to the world, which is the organization’s core mission.

    I’m thrilled to have Salil, a leader with a great track record in the IT industry, join the USISPF Board. Infosys’ impact in the American tech industry has been extremely important, and the company played a vital part in India’s nearly USD 200 billion software exports for 2023, Chambers said.

  • 33 non-profit bodies to participate in second India Giving Day in US

    33 non-profit bodies to participate in second India Giving Day in US

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): As many as 33 top Indian American nonprofit organizations are participating in the India Giving Day on March 1, during which organizers expect to raise money for important social welfare programs in India. “The number (results) we’re going to announce at the end of India Giving Day is going to be significantly larger than last year. That’s because we have a track record as we’ve been working all year long and people are excited,” Alex Counts, executive director of the India Philanthropy Alliance and India Giving Day told PTI in an interview. India Philanthropy Alliance is a network of non-profit organizations that mobilize people and funding in the US for high-impact development programs in India.

    The second edition of the annual India Giving Day organized by India Philanthropy Alliance has launched a nationwide campaign to generate awareness among Indian Americans and “friends of India” in the US to donate generously on this important day dedicated to raise funds for a host of critical social and economic issues in India.

    The inaugural edition last year raised USD 1.3 million in one day. All funds raised through India Giving Day will be used to support programs based in India or to build a more robust fundraising operation in the US to benefit India, Counts said.

    “The three (issues) that were most common, perhaps almost exclusive issues last year were education for the poor, healthcare for the poor, wellbeing and third was we put a broad category of livelihoods, the ability of people to generate economic sustainability for themselves through good jobs and entrepreneurship,” he said.

    “Those remain central to what we’re doing. This year we’re adding a few more. We’re adding a few organizations that work in environmental preservation and climate change. We have a couple of groups that work in animal rights and animal welfare. We are expanding with more cultural organizations. Most of our money will be going towards these three — health education and livelihood,” Counts said.

    Urging Indian Americans and “friends of India” to donate generously, Counts said: “Give when you have surplus. If someone is just living paycheck to paycheck and is struggling economically, they can give in other ways. They can give their time. I wouldn’t want them to be giving financially. But for those who have been fortunate enough who’ve worked hard to develop some surplus financial resources, giving can be something that’s done in a communal and collective way.”

    He said that for many who are part of India Giving Day, it is where they were born or where their parents were born. Giving is an opportunity to really change that society for the better, to give new opportunities for healthcare, education, environment preservation, livelihoods.

    “It’s an opportunity to do it joyfully, to do it communally and to do it when you choose organizations that are really well designed,” the executive director of the alliance said. India, he asserted, has some of the best NGOs in the world and they do all or most of their work in India.

    “So you’re not talking about organizations that are kind of poorly organized. The 33 groups we have here are some of the best non-profits in the entire world. So when you work with them, you really have confidence that it’ll bring change,” Counts said. “I just ask people to also just do it, give what you can, give it joyfully, where you let others see what you’re giving and inspire them to give and know that if you choose groups that are well trained and well and they can execute, you’re going to change India as a result,” Counts said in response to a question,” he added.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Delegation from 17 US universities to visit India next week

    Delegation from 17 US universities to visit India next week

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): A high-powered delegation of 31 provosts, vice provosts, deans, and other leaders from 17 top American universities are travelling to India next week as part of their goal to strengthen India-US collaboration and student and scholar mobility between the two countries.

    The delegation from the American universities will visit 26 institutions in New Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad.

    This visit gains significance in the wake of the recent spate in incidents of attacks on Indian students and those of Indian origin in various parts of the country.

    The delegation builds on recent years of US and Indian government-led efforts to partner in pursuit of mutually beneficial strategies. Last year, the president and prime minister from each country embarked on state visits to the other, affirming the US-India Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, a media release said.

    We will have the opportunity to meet with 26 Indian institutions to talk about collaboration, mobility of students and scholars between our two countries and securing and fostering enduring partnerships between institutions, A. Sarah Ilchman, co-president of Institute of International Education (IIE), told PTI in an interview before leaving for India. Indian students and scholars in the US now are at record numbers and it’s very exciting to watch close to 270,000 Indian students on US campuses and about 17,000 Indian scholars in the US right now. So, it’s an exciting time to be engaging with India and Indian institutions to try to further increase this engagement and collaboration, she said.

    The IIE Leadership Delegation to India from February 25 to March 2 would have representations from California State University, Long Beach; University of California, Berkeley; DePaul University; University of California, Davis; East Tennessee State University; University of Houston; Florida International University; University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; Michigan State University; University of Massachusetts, Amherst; Mississippi State University; University of Missouri; Montclair State University; University of Rochester; Oklahoma State University; University of Tulsa and Rutgers University.

    More than 40 per cent of India’s 1.4 billion population is under the age of 25, and demand for education exceeds in-country supply. Apart from meeting Indian government officials, the delegates will visit US consulates, the Indian School of Business, IIT Hyderabad, Mahindra University, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, and Somaiya Vidyavihar University. Topics to be discussed include setting up of international branch campuses in India, the impact of ed-tech in Indian higher education, and the higher education business landscape.

    We hope from this delegation that there will be many active partnerships and engagements between US institutions and Indian institutions and that we can increase the flow of students and scholars both ways, Ilchman said. Observing that the US has probably the most diverse higher education system in the world with specialized programs, institutions of all sizes and shapes and focuses, Ilchman said the United States has much to offer to students from India as compared to other global destinations.

    We also are a brand. People know that the reputation of an education in the US is highly sought after, and in addition, the United States has tremendous capacity and room to welcome international students,” she said.

    Some countries such as the UK or Australia or Canada have close to 20 per cent or more international students in their higher education system, Ilchman pointed out.

    “In the United States, only about six per cent of the higher education system are international students. So we have capacity to welcome more, she said. Ilchman said India has been a long-standing investor in US higher education by sending students and scholars through optional practical training (OPT), which is the opportunity to do practical work in your field of study after your degree programme.

    Many Indian students and scholars have had the opportunity to work in the United States to found organizations and companies that have done tremendous things, she said.

    So, the impact of Indians and other international students in the United States is significant in what they contribute back to society, she noted.

    The delegation would also meet members of the US embassy while in India.

    Of course, visas and the timely issuance of visas is critically important for all of this to work. The Department of State has been much more open and transparent about the number of visa applications that are in the pipeline, how many have been approved, and how long it takes to get a visa interview, the IIE co-president said.

    With this transparency we’re starting to see more data and more information that the visa process is working out, some of the obstacles in kinks that we have seen, she added.

    On a question on the spate in attacks on Indian students in recent weeks, Ilchman said, US colleges and universities prioritise the health and safety of all of their students on campus, both domestic and international.

    Building safe and inclusive communities is part of what US universities try to do every single day. They are very familiar with welcoming and supporting international students on their campuses. US institutions are on the forefront of providing mental health resources to ensure that all students have the support that they need during their studies, she added.

    Asked about some of the unscrupulous universities in the US, which many a times resulted in Indian students being deported from the US airports on arrival, Ilchman said, Unfortunately there are individuals who are working outside the system and creating opportunities that don’t exist and attract individuals there. I know that they’re trying to clamp down on these unfortunate actors in the industry.

  • CONSTRUCTION OF METRO LINE IN SAN SALVADOR

    CONSTRUCTION OF METRO LINE IN SAN SALVADOR

    GOVERNMENT OF REPUBLIC OF EL SALVADOR AND LAKSHMI CAPITAL SIGN THE MOU

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): Over the past decade, India’s remarkable achievements in successful infrastructural development have garnered global attention and inspired Indian companies to venture beyond their conventional roles of manufacturing and exporting finished goods. India’s rapid infrastructural progress serves as a beacon for other nations, with Central American governments eagerly embracing Indian companies to invest in and bolster their own infrastructural projects. Recognizing the strategic significance of the Central American region, companies like SRAM & MRAM have shifted their focus towards engaging in transformative infrastructure endeavors in Guatemala and El Salvador. This shift has led to the investment in ten impactful projects across these nations through their subsidiary, Lakshmi Capital, signaling a new era of collaboration and development.

    Amb Dr Mohapatra sharing some joyous moment with Mr. Romeo Rodríguez, Min Public Works and Mr. Russell Alexander Luther Rodas of Laxmi Capital after signing the MoU.

    In a significant stride toward strengthening infrastructure and economic development in El Salvador, 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 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. The metro line project aims to invigorate the economy and modernize transportation infrastructure in the country. Following a comprehensive pre-feasibility study, the decision was made to embark on the creation of a subway system in San Salvador, leveraging international investment for optimal outcomes.

    It is imperative to underscore that the initial proposal, initially spanning 11 kilometers, was subsequently augmented to an impressive 22 kilometers by the El Salvadoran Government. This remarkable expansion stands as a testament to India’s growing reputation globally and steadfast support, alongside the unwavering commitment and enthusiastic dedication showcased by Lakshmi Capital in propelling infrastructure development and fostering sustainable progress in El Salvador.

    The metro line project based on BOT Modal, outlines the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation’s role in providing pre-feasibility analyses, designs, and legal frameworks, while Lakshmi Capital will offer technical expertise and investment mechanisms. The signing ceremony followed a series of meetings convened by the Embassy of India in Guatemala between the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation and Lakshmi Capital, underscoring their shared dedication to the project’s successful execution. Both parties will begin exchanging crucial information, marking the start of the analysis, study, and proposal stages of the initiative.

    Mr. Romeo Rodríguez, Min Public Works and Mr. Russell Alexander Luther Rodas of Laxmi Capital showing the copy of the signed MoU.

    The metro line project stands at the forefront of reshaping transportation infrastructure in El Salvador, presenting Indian companies with a unique opportunity to make a lasting impression in the Central American region. This collaboration resonates with a mutual dedication to fostering economic advancement and sustainable growth. Moreover, this pivotal project serves as a precursor to a multitude of forthcoming endeavors, such as supplying buses, constructing the dry corridor, and implementing a solar power project. Discussions for these ventures are currently at an advanced stage, indicating the potential for additional Memoranda of Understanding to be signed in the near future.

  • 92-MEMBER BUSINESS DELEGATION FROM PHARMEXCIL VISITS GUATEMALA

    92-MEMBER BUSINESS DELEGATION FROM PHARMEXCIL VISITS GUATEMALA

    • The presence of the largest-ever business delegation from India has significantly bolstered trust among Guatemala buyers

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): India’s proactive outreach has sparked significant interest among Indian companies, leading to a notable uptick in bilateral trade and a surge in the exchange of trade delegations. Following successful visits by a 15-member delegation from The Plastic Export Promotion Council (Plexconcil) in November 2023 and a 20-member delegation from the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO), Guatemala witnessed the arrival of a massive 92-member delegation, comprising 74 companies from The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil), on 19-20 February 2024. This delegation conducted a series of highly productive Business-to-Business meetings with local companies at the Westin Camino Real Hotel in Guatemala City. Notably, this delegation marks the largest-ever visit to the Latin American region by Pharmexcil, unlocking vast opportunities for collaboration and economic growth.

    The Business Meet witnessed a remarkable turnout of buyers.

    The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) plays a pivotal role in promoting and facilitating India’s pharmaceutical exports on the global stage. As the apex body representing the Indian pharmaceutical industry, Pharmexcil functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Its primary objective is to enhance the competitiveness of Indian pharmaceutical products in international markets while ensuring compliance with global regulatory standards. Pharmexcil provides a range of services to its members, including market intelligence, trade facilitation, regulatory guidance, and promotional activities. Through its concerted efforts, Pharmexcil serves as a catalyst for driving the growth of India’s pharmaceutical exports, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and strengthening its position as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’.

    The presence of the largest-ever business delegation from India has significantly bolstered trust among local buyers.

    Guatemala has emerged as India’s largest trading partner in the Central American region, with bilateral trade reaching US$573.21 million in the 2021-22 period. This trend has continued to strengthen, with bilateral trade increasing to US$693 million in the 2022-23 period, indicating a notable upward trajectory. India’s pharmaceutical exports to Guatemala have been witnessing significant growth in recent years. With India being one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality generic medicines at competitive prices, its pharmaceutical products have gained traction in the Guatemalan market. These exports encompass a wide range of pharmaceutical formulations, including generic drugs, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), formulations, and medical devices. Such exchange of trade delegations and participation in business-to-business meetings have been instrumental in enhancing collaboration and exploring new avenues for pharmaceutical trade between the two countries.

    Pharmexcil launched its campaign in Guatemala in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce of Guatemala, with approximately 175 Guatemalan companies participating in the Business-to-Business meetings on both days. The event was also attended by some Honduran companies. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Mr. Julio Eduardo Orozco, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala, Francis Garnica, Executive Director of MINECO’s National Competitiveness Program Ministry of Economy, and Ms. Lakshmi Prasanna, Director-Regulatory Affairs, Pharmexcil. The inaugural event featured presentations by Ms. Karem Sagastume from the Department of Regulation and Control of Pharmaceuticals and Related Products of the Ministry of Health, Sr. Eduardo Cheves, Investment Attraction Specialist for Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices, and Ms. Jennifer Lobos from the National Competitiveness Program (PRONACOM). Mr. Udaya Bhaskar, Director-General of the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India, delivered his recorded remarks virtually. Ms. Lakshmi Prasanna, Director-Regulatory Affairs, Pharmexcil, delivered a presentation outlining the organization’s approach and future prospects. The delegation received an overwhelming response from local companies, demonstrating their keen interest in partnering with visiting countries. Delegation members also had the opportunity to interact with Guatemala’s apex health authorities such as UNOPS and IGGS to gain insights into trade regulations for pharmaceuticals and medical devices and discussed ways to enhance bilateral trade relations.

    Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra underscored the significant presence of Indian pharmaceutical companies in Guatemala and India’s steadfast commitment to supporting healthcare facilities.

    In his welcoming address, Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra underscored the significant presence of Indian pharmaceutical companies in Guatemala and India’s steadfast commitment to supporting healthcare facilities in the Central American region. He highlighted Guatemala’s strategic geographical location in Central America, which presents an opportunity for India to enhance its economic engagement with other nations in the region. Dr. Mohapatra expressed hope for future cooperation between India and Guatemala to leverage their unique ecosystems, including a plethora of endemic species, for traditional and generic medicines. He extended congratulations to Pharmexcil for spearheading the largest-ever delegation to the region and conveyed his best wishes to Indian companies in their efforts to foster greater business opportunities in Guatemala.

    During his virtual interaction, Shri Uday Bhaskar, Director General of Pharmexcil, underscored the pivotal role of Indian Pharma globally, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the significant presence of Indian pharmaceutical companies in Latin America, highlighting Guatemala’s emergence as a crucial market for these companies. This recognition underscores the importance of Guatemala in the broader context of Indian pharmaceutical exports to the region, reflecting the growing significance of the country as a strategic market for Indian pharmaceutical products.

    The B2B Meetings facilitated exploration of potential trade opportunities, allowing businesses from both countries to identify areas of mutual interest and collaboration. The delegation gained insights of Guatemalan markets, helping them understand regulatory environments, consumer behavior, and market trends, which is crucial for successful market entry. These meetings can not only serve as a forum to promote investment opportunities, encouraging businesses to invest in each other’s countries and contribute to economic growth but also provide a platform for networking, enabling companies to connect with potential partners, suppliers, and distributors, thereby expanding their business networks. Embassy of India in Guatemala looks forward to many more such visits in future to enhance the trade relations between Indian and these Central American Countries.

  • Three Indian Americans appointed to key jobs by California Governor

    Three Indian Americans appointed to key jobs by California Governor

    Parminder Aujla
    SACRAMENTO (TIP) : California Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed three Indian Americans to key posts in his administration. aginder Dhillon, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Program Support in the Division of Rehabilitative Programs at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
    Hemant Dhingra, of Clovis, has been appointed to the Medical Board of California, while Nisha Devi Rodrigo, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the Commission on the Status of Women and Girls.
    Dhillon has been Associate Director at the Corrections department since 2019 and served in several positions in the Budget Management Branch from 2008 to 2010, including Staff Services Manager I and Associate Budget Analyst.
    Dhillon was a Branch Chief at the California Department of Housing and Community Development from 2017 to 2019. She was a Branch Chief at the California Department of Public Health from 2012 to 2016 and a Health Program Specialist I there from 2010 to 2012.
    Dhillon was a Research Analyst I at the Employment Development Department from 2006 to 2007. She was a Staff Services Analyst at the California Department of Transportation in 2006.
    Dhillon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of California, Davis.
    This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $166,008. Dhillon is a Democrat.
    Dhingra has been Chief of Medical Staff at the Saint Agnes Medical Center of Fresno since 2023, where he was Founding Program Director of Internal Medicine.
    He has been President of the Nephrology Group since 2014. Dhingra is a member of the American Society of Nephrology and the California Medical Association.
    He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and completed his Fellowship in Nephrology at Texas Tech University. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Dhingra is a Democrat.
    Rodrigo has been the founder of Kala Wellness since 2012 and an Eastern Medicine Practitioner with the United Nations since 2018.
    She was the founder at the InFocus Wellness Institute from 2004 to 2012. Rodrigo did Communications for MP Graham Allen in the House of Commons in the UK Parliament from 2000 to 2001.
    She was a Hansard Scholar at the London School of Economics and Political Science in 2000. Rodrigo did Communications in the White House Counsel’s Office from 1999 to 2000.
    She is a member of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being and of the Yoga Alliance Board of Directors.
    Rodrigo earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Loyola Marymount University and has studied Eastern Medicine Modalities since 2001.
    This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Rodrigo is a Democrat.

  • MAYOR ADAMS, NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS ANNOUNCE FREE TAX PREP SERVICES FOR NEW YORKERS

    MAYOR ADAMS, NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS ANNOUNCE FREE TAX PREP SERVICES FOR NEW YORKERS

    • With Tax Season Underway, In-Person and Virtual Tax Preparation Services Will Be Available at City Public Hospitals in Various Languages

    NEW YORK (TIP): New York City Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Health + Hospitals, on February 23, announced free, in-person, and virtual tax preparation services for New Yorkers as part of the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection’s (DCWP) NYC Free Tax Prep initiative. In partnership with BronxWorks, Grow Brooklyn, Urban Upbound, and Code for America’s GetYourRefund initiative, free tax preparation is available for New Yorkers who earn $85,000 or less annually and file as a family, or those who earn $59,000 or less annually and file as an individual or couple without dependents. Select NYC Health + Hospitals sites offer support in Spanish, Chinese, and Bengali, and virtual tax preparation is available in Spanish as well.

    “Every day, we work to make this city more livable for working-class New Yorkers, and by offering free tax preparation at NYC Health + Hospitals sites, we are again delivering for families across the five boroughs,” said Mayor Adams. “Services are available online, in-person, and in multiple languages, making it easy for families to file their taxes and keep money in their pockets. We went to Albany to secure the first increase in the city’s Earned Income Tax Credit in 20 years, and we are thrilled to offer New Yorkers NYC Free Tax Prep to help them receive their fair share this tax season.”

    For in-person services, individuals should schedule an appointment in advance and bring identification and proof of income. For virtual services, individuals can upload their documents and meet virtually with a tax preparer to review their tax return before submission. A full checklist of the documents needed to file taxes is available online.

    “Tax season can induce anxiety about filling in the right boxes, finding the proper forms, and trying to access all the credits for which you and your family may qualify,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “This year, take a moment to see if you qualify for support through this unique partnership with our public hospital system. In this case, your NYC Health + Hospitals provider might be able to also help you get the peace of mind you need with your taxes.”

    “An annual tax refund is often the largest lump-sum payment families receive all year and something that many working New Yorkers count on — even more so since last year’s historic enhancement of the New York City Earned Income Tax Credit,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Partnerships like the one between DCWP, NYC Health + Hospitals, and the city’s tax preparation partners help us meet New Yorkers where they are with free tax prep services that help them put a meaningful sum of money back into their pockets.”

    “For over 20 years, NYC Free Tax Prep has helped file hundreds of thousands of tax returns,” said DCWP Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga. “This year, we’re helping filers keep more of their hard-earned money with the enhanced New York City Earned Income Tax Credit and our expanded NYC Free Tax Prep services for self-employed New Yorkers. Thank you to all of our amazing tax prep partners, like NYC Health + Hospitals and MetroPlusHealth, for working to help New Yorkers get their fullest refund.”

    “We are proud to partner with NYC Tax Prep to support financial well-being by offering trusted services that save money on filing taxes and promote access to tax credits,” said Nichola Davis, MD, MS, vice president and chief population health officer, NYC Health + Hospitals. “We know that tax refunds can be the biggest influx of income over the course of a year for many, so we aim to alleviate financial stress in order to foster a healthier future for our patients.”

    “We are proud to again offer New Yorkers help with filing their taxes this year,” said Steve Mitchell, vice president of sales, MetroPlusHealth. “Many families will benefit from this free service at select MetroPlusHealth community centers, as well as receive guidance on signing up for health insurance.”

    NYC Free Tax Prep provides free, professional tax preparation that can help New Yorkers keep their full refund, including valuable tax credits, like the recently enhanced New York City Earned Income Tax Credit. NYC Free Tax Prep Services include:

    In-Person Tax Preparation: At in-person tax prep sites, knowledgeable Internal Revenue Service (IRS) certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) volunteer preparers help filers complete an accurate tax return. More than 130 sites across the city will be open throughout the season.
    Drop-Off Service: With drop-off service, filers can drop off their tax documents and pick up the completed return later.
    Virtual Tax Preparation: Virtual Tax Preparation is an online service where an IRS-certified VITA or TCE volunteer preparer will video conference with filers to help prepare their tax return using a secure digital system. Filers can submit photos or scans of tax documents to the preparer, confirm their identity, and complete their return by video call with a preparer. Filers will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; and the ability to download secure video conference software.
    Assisted Self-Preparation: Assisted Self-Preparation allows filers to complete their tax return online on their own, and an IRS-certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer will be available by phone or email to answer questions. Filers will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; an email address; and their 2022 adjusted gross income or self-select PIN.
    NYC Free Tax Prep Services are available now at over 130 VITA and TCE sites around the city. The IRS will accept returns through April 15, 2024. New Yorkers can call 311 or visit the NYC Free Tax Prep website and use DCWP’s interactive map to search for the most convenient free tax site near them.

    Below are locations and hours for in-person free tax preparation at NYC Health + Hospitals and MetroPlusHealth sites this season:

    In-Person Tax Preparation at NYC Health + Hospitals and MetroPlusHealth Sites

    Bronx:

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Tremont

    1920 Webster Avenue, Bronx, NY 10457

    Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

    Available in English and Spanish

    Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 993-8880 or going online

    Brooklyn:

    MetroPlusHealth – Brooklyn

    2221 Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11226

    Fridays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Schedule an appointment by calling (347) 682-5606 or going online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Broadway

    815 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11206

    Mondays, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

    Schedule an appointment by calling (347) 682-5606 or going online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, East New York

    2094 Pitkin Avenue, 1st Floor, P31, Brooklyn, NY 11207

    Wednesdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

    Manhattan:

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue

    461 1st Avenue, F-Link, Room CD49, New York, NY 10016

    Fridays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

    Queens:

    MetroPlusHealth – Flushing

    136-13 Roosevelt Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354

    Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Available in English and Chinese

    Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

    MetroPlusHealth – Jackson Heights

    92-14 Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

    Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Available in English and Spanish

    Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst

    79-01 Broadway, Main Lobby, Elmhurst, NY 11373

    Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Available in English, Bengali, and Spanish

    Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens

    82-68 164th Street, Pavilion Building – Ground Floor, Room P053, Jamaica, NY 11432

    Wednesdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Available in English, Bengali, and Spanish

    Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

    Virtual Tax Preparation Options

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Cumberland

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Gouverneur

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/North Central Bronx

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Roosevelt

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull

    Available in English and Spanish

    Register Online

    “New Yorkers from every community and income bracket should have the resources they need to prepare and file their taxes on time,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Mayor Adams’ partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals and community organizations will allow just that by providing tax preparation free of charge. As a representative from Queens, the most linguistically diverse urban area in the world, I am also proud that we are offering support in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Bengali — the four most commonly spoken languages in our borough. This important initiative will help all New Yorkers file accurately, maximize their refund, and avoid any errors.”

  • ‘Overseas Friends of BJP’ in US to make 25 lakh calls to India during elections; send 3,000 Indian-Americans to campaign

    ‘Overseas Friends of BJP’ in US to make 25 lakh calls to India during elections; send 3,000 Indian-Americans to campaign

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The ‘Overseas Friends of BJP’ in the US has made an elaborate plan to make more than 2,50,000 calls to people across India urging them to vote and re-elect Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a third term with a record 400 plus seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, according to community leaders. ‘Overseas Friends of BJP’ in the USA has also made plans to send a strong delegation of more than 3,000 Indian Americans who will campaign for the party and its candidates in various capacities across India.

    The BJP has also created more than two dozen teams across the US to make specific calls and help in developing strategies according to different states and languages.

    “We started preparations from December itself and we are picking up speed this month. In February, we are starting a kickoff event all over the United States — probably around 20-22 cities cutting across 18 States. We are trying to gather not only the sympathizers and volunteers of ‘Overseas Friends of BJP’, but also the general community, the community leaders, and the community who want to see Modi 3.0. So they will be participating in that,” OFBJP USA President Adapa Prasad told PTI in a recent interview.

    OFBJP USA, he said, will be presenting the achievements of the Modi government in the last five years and also the 10 years cumulatively and how India’s position in the global community of the nations in the current situation, and also US India relations and the domestic side, how overall growth has happened.

    “We have already prepared the PowerPoint slides. We have PDF documents to distribute,” he said.

    OFBJP is also working to organize “Chai Pe Charcha” in towns and cities across the US, he said.

    “We will gather local people. We will discuss these things about the overall development agenda of BJP and Modi. We will urge all our NRI brothers and Indian diaspora brothers to call their friends and families to vote for the BJP. It’s not for asking why just vote for BJP. They will be telling them why they should be voting for BJP and they will list out all the achievements of the BJP government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said.

    The goal, this time, he said, is to get 400 seats for the BJP and its allies.

    “For general elections, there is already a lot of enthusiasm. Just like in India, it is for Modi and BJP. We will be having call centers almost at the county (district) level. We will be calling and we will be dividing this by state. There are Hindi-speaking states and there are regional-speaking states. So for example, if it is Karnataka, we have a Karnataka speaking people who will be calling there, if it is Telangana, we will be having Telugu speaking and so on. Marathi, Tamil we have everybody. We have NRIs covering, volunteering already from hailing, from Jammu and Kashmir to Kerala,” Prasad said.

    “I’m expecting almost 2.5 million calls,” Prasad said, adding that this year OFBJP is expecting to send a delegation of 3,000 Indian Americans to campaign for the party in the general elections.

    There is coordination on this between OFBJP USA and the BJP in India.

    The OFBJP USA is also planning to hold car rallies in different cities during the elections to create awareness about the developments and achievements in India in the last 10 years, he said.

  • NSF Director Panchanathan, several other Indian-Americans elected to National Academy of Engineering

    NSF Director Panchanathan, several other Indian-Americans elected to National Academy of Engineering

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): National Science Foundation Director Sethuraman Panchanathan and several other eminent Indian-American scientists have been elected to the prestigious National Academy of Engineering, according to an official release. They include Ravi Prasher from Bloom Energy and Tejal Desai from Brown University. Thalappil Pradeep from IIT Chennai is the only Indian scientist among the 21 new international members selected to this top American engineering body. This is in addition to the 114 new US scientists who have been elected this year. This brings the total US membership to 2,310 and the number of international members to 332, the release said. Election to the National Academy of Engineering is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer.

    Panchanathan has been elected to NAE for multimedia computing for assistive and rehabilitative applications and for leadership at the institutional and national levels.

    Among other Indian-American scientists elected to the body are Shailendra Bordawekar, vice president, Small Molecule Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls Development, AbbVie Inc., Gurnee, Ill; Surajit Chaudhuri, distinguished scientist, data systems, Microsoft Research; and Tejal Desai from School of Engineering, Brown University. Garg Maheshwari, vice president, Biologics Development, Bristol Myers Squibb; Pandurang Nayak, vice president of Search, Google; Ravi Prasher, chief technology officer, Bloom Energy, and Raj Singh, regents professor of materials science and engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Oklahoma State University are also in the list. The National Academy of Engineering said Thalappil Pradeep, Deepak Parekh Institute Chair Professor and professor of chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, has been elected as the international member for contributions to cluster chemistry and the discovery and implementation of affordable drinking water solutions.

    Election of the new NAE members is the culmination of a yearlong process. The ballot is set in December and the final vote for membership occurs during January. Individuals in the newly elected class will be formally inducted during the NAE’s annual meeting on September 29, 2024.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Indian American Purdue University student Sameer Kamath died by suicide

    Indian American Purdue University student Sameer Kamath died by suicide

    WILLIAMSPORT, INDIANA (TIP): A 23-year-old Indian American student at Purdue University, who was found dead in a nature preserve in Indiana this week, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, according to authorities.
    Sameer Kamath, a US citizen, was found dead in the woods on February 5 at approximately 5 pm in NICHES Land Trust – Crow’s Grove in Williamsport, Indiana.
    Justin Brummett, Coroner at Warren County Coroner’s Office, said in a press release Wednesday that a forensic autopsy was performed on Kamath on February 6 in Crawfordsville, Indiana.
    The press release from the coroner’s office said that the preliminary cause of death is a “gunshot wound of the head” and Kamath died by “suicide”. A toxicology report is pending.
    “Through extensive investigation by the Warren County Coroner’s Office in conjunction with multiple other local and federal agencies, we are now able to release a preliminary cause and manner of death,” the release said.
    The coroner’s office said that prior to releasing this information, Kamath’s family was notified of the results.
    This is an ongoing investigation with the Warren County Coroner’s Office, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Purdue University Administration and other supporting agencies, it said.
    “Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family, and we hope they are respected during such a difficult time,” Brummett said.
    A report said that Kamath was a doctoral candidate in mechanical engineering. The report added that mechanical engineering head Eckhard Groll said in an email to the ME community that Kamath was from Massachusetts.
    He “received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and came to Purdue in the summer of 2021,” the report added.
    Kamath was to graduate from the doctoral program in 2025, according to his LinkedIn profile, the report said.
    Kamath’s death is the latest in a string of tragic incidents among students of Indian-origin and from India in the US. Last month, another Purdue student 19-year-old Neel Acharya, who had been reported missing, was found dead on the Purdue University West Lafayette campus. Acharya was a US citizen. Authorities have said that there was no trauma or significant injuries found during the autopsy on Acharya and “no foul play is suspected at this time”.
    Last month, 25-year-old Indian student Vivek Saini was hammered to death by a homeless drug addict in Georgia. Earlier this month, another Indian student, Syed Mazahir Ali, hailing from Hyderabad and pursuing master’s in information technology, was chased and brutally attacked by three unidentified men in Chicago.

  • Indo-Pacific Strategy has made US and region more secure, more prosperous: White House

    Indo-Pacific Strategy has made US and region more secure, more prosperous: White House

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The US has said the execution of its Indo-Pacific Strategy in 2022 amidst the strategic competition with China has made the country and the dynamic region more secure and more prosperous, and expanded the bilateral partnership with India in unprecedented ways.

    Addressing the media on the second anniversary of the launch of the landmark foreign policy strategy of the Biden administration, Adrienne Watson, a spokesperson for the National Security Council of the White House, said “the United States has never been in a stronger position in the Indo-Pacific”.

    “Over the past two years, we have made historic progress in advancing an Indo-Pacific that is free and open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient. Thanks to President Biden’s leadership, the United States has never been in a stronger position in the Indo-Pacific,” she said.

    In the two years since the launch of the Indo-Pacific Strategy, the US has reinvested and revitalized its alliances and partnerships and taken them to new heights, Watson said.

    “We have deepened and elevated alliances with Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Australia, the Philippines, and Thailand. We upgraded our bilateral relationships with Vietnam and Indonesia, and our partnership with ASEAN.

    “We have expanded our partnership with India in unprecedented ways. We have surged our efforts in the Pacific, including with two historic summits for Pacific Island leaders at the White House and the establishment of the Partners of the Blue Pacific,” she said.

    The United States is an Indo-Pacific nation. As the most dynamic and fastest-growing region on earth, the Indo-Pacific is an essential driver of America’s future security and prosperity, the state department said in a fact sheet.

    The region is home to more than half the world’s population, and it accounts for 60 per cent of global GDP as well as two-thirds of global economic growth. Trade between the United States and the Indo-Pacific region reached over USD 2 trillion in 2022, and the United States benefits from USD 956 billion in foreign direct investment from the Indo-Pacific, it said.

    “But as our cooperation to advance our common values and interests has grown, so too have our challenges. We have seen the People’s Republic of China (PRC) become more repressive at home and more assertive abroad, undermining human rights and international law, and seeking to reshape the international order,” the fact sheet noted.

    At the briefing, Watson said President Joe Biden hosted the historic US-Japan-South Korea trilateral summit at Camp David to open a new chapter in this important partnership, she said.

    Under his leadership, the US has elevated the Quad with Australia, India, and Japan to a leader-level summit and has delivered concrete results for the Indo-Pacific region, from vaccines to maritime domain awareness to scholarships for students, she said.

    “And three of the four Official State Visits President Biden has hosted were with leaders of Indo-Pacific countries: the Republic of Korea, India, and Australia. This year, the President will welcome Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan. We have also undertaken historic cooperation between the United States, Japan, and the Philippines,” Watson said.

    The US has also built closer ties between Europe and the Indo-Pacific, including through the launch of AUKUS, a historic partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, she said.

    Today, there is a recognition both in Europe and the Indo-Pacific that the opportunities and challenges in one region directly affect the other, she said.

    “We have seen that with historic support from some of our Indo-Pacific partners for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s brutal invasion. And we see that recognition from our European partners as we work to address the direct military support from the DPRK (North Korea) to Russia’s war in Ukraine,” she said.

    After just two years, the execution of the Indo-Pacific Strategy has made “our country and the Indo-Pacific region more secure and more prosperous”. “All of this strengthens the United States’ position in the Indo-Pacific and advances our interests in and vision for the region amidst strategic competition with the People’s Republic of China. And even as we confront challenges elsewhere, the United States will proudly continue to prioritize our work in this critical region for our future,” Watson said.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Allegations of Indian involvement in assassination efforts in US and Canada is very concerning says State Dept nominee

    Allegations of Indian involvement in assassination efforts in US and Canada is very concerning says State Dept nominee

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The allegations that India was involved in the assassination attempts in the US and Canada are very concerning, a senior academician nominated to a top human rights diplomatic position in the State Department has told lawmakers.

    “Yes, it is very concerning what happened on US soil and Canadian soil,” Dafna Hochman Rand, nominee to be Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, told members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee during her confirmation hearing on Thursday.

    She was responding to a question from Senator Ben Cardin, Chairman of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “I want to raise India… We know about a plot to assassinate… on US soil and Canadian soil. I’d like to hear your commitment to how you would get engaged in those types of efforts to make sure that type of conduct does not take place,” Cardin asked. “First and foremost, it’s clear that India is a critical ally, the oldest democracy there, the biggest democracy, but it is those shared values, the democratic values that we need that bind this alliance. And as if confirmed, as DRL’s Assistant Secretary, I will be a voice in the administration, making sure that we’re not abashed,” Rand said in response to the question.

    India has described as a “matter of concern” the US linking an Indian official to a man charged with conspiring to kill a Sikh separatist on American soil, and asserted that follow-up action will be taken based on findings of a panel investigating the allegations.

    India has already constituted a probe team to investigate the allegations relating to the foiled plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Sikh extremist who is an American and Canadian citizen.

    Regarding Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations that there was a “potential” involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in a Vancouver suburb in June.

    The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said the main issue with Ottawa has been that of activities of anti-India elements in that country.

    “Insofar as Canada is concerned, they have consistently given space to anti-India extremists and violence. That is at the heart of the issue. Our diplomatic representatives have borne the brunt of this,” he said.

    On other issues, Rand said, “We are not afraid to talk about our concerns about human rights, democracy and of course these troubling trends towards what we’re seeing…Again, I’m not in the administration, so I don’t know all the details of what happened. And I understand the DOJ and FBI are working on it, but I think it’s critical that even as we strengthen our relationship with India as part of our Indo-Pacific strategy, we make human rights and democracy the center of that relationship,” Rand said.

    “We talk truth in this relationship and we speak frankly about our concerns. So I’m not shy and I will be a voice at the State Department and in the administration making that clear,” said Rand who on November 9 last was nominated by the president to this position.

    Rand currently serves as a Distinguished Resident Fellow in Strategic Affairs at Georgetown University’s Institute for the Study of Diplomacy and as a Lecturer at Princeton’s School of Public and International Affairs.

    She has spent the past two decades in public service, including most recently as the Director of the Office of Foreign Assistance at the Department of State. Previously, she was the Vice President of Policy and Research at Mercy Corps, a non-governmental humanitarian organization serving communities in over 40 countries.

    Earlier in her career, Rand served as a Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, as well as on the staff of the State Department’s Office of Policy Planning and the National Security Council. She is the former Deputy Director of Studies at the Centre for a New American Security and a former professional staff member of the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.

    She started her career in government as the foreign policy and defense Legislative Assistant to Senator Frank R. Lautenberg from New Jersey. Her research has focused on international security and governance in the Middle East and North Africa, including two books on the subject. A native of Massachusetts, she earned her undergraduate degree at Harvard University and her PhD in political science at Columbia University.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Indian American Bhavini Patel is running for US Congress

    Indian American Bhavini Patel is running for US Congress

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): From helping her single parent mother running a food truck “India on Wheels” in Pittsburgh to launching a tech startup after completing her education from the Oxford University, Indian American Bhavini Patel is now running for US House of Representatives.
    Patel, 30, last year on October 2 announced her decision to run for the Congress from the 12th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, which is currently held by her Democratic Party colleague Summer Lee.
    Notably, Congresswoman Lee is one of the few lawmakers who had boycotted the historic Joint Address to the US Congress by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June last year.
    Preparing for her first hurdle of the primary, scheduled for April 23, Patel has raised over USD 310,000, of which she says roughly 70 per cent has been raised from within the State.
    “It’s truly emblematic of the community and the needs of the community. We’ve earned several labor union endorsements including support from the steamfitters, the operating engineers, and SMART, which is a railroad transportation union. When we think about support from the unions, that’s a really big deal, especially coming from Western Pennsylvania where there’s such a strong history of the power of the labor movement,” Patel told media.
    In addition to that, she has also got endorsements from roughly 33 elected officials, including mayors of small towns as well as members of council in those areas.
    Patel is a die-hard Biden supporter. “To be quite honest, I think he’s one of our most progressive presidents that we’ve seen” she said, referring to some of the key bills that his administration has been able to deliver, including infrastructure bill, Inflation Reduction Act, and Chips and Sciences Act.
    Originally from Gujarat in India, her mother came to this country as an immigrant.
    “She came to this country with very little, which I think is a story that resonates with many people in the Indian diaspora here in this country. When she came here, she raised my brother and me as a single parent. We moved around quite a bit, to various different cities, and she worked various odd jobs, washing dishes in the restaurant industry, working in the motel industry,” Patel said.
    “Then she eventually came to Monroeville, which is a small suburb in western Pennsylvania, and that’s where she started a small catering business, supplying samosas and various other pastries to the local Patel brothers there. From there she started a food truck business. So, my family has been running food trucks for the last 25 years,” she said.
    “It’s called India on Wheels. In many ways, that is my story. I grew up working in that family food truck business, grew up on Pitts campus, ran the serving window, helped out on the weekends with catering, and then at some point decided that I wanted to attend the University of Pittsburgh,” she said.
    Patel soon became the first in her family to graduate from college. “Then I earned a scholarship to get my master’s at the University of Oxford. Since then, I have been involved in various different public service efforts. When I think about the Indian diaspora, I think about the power of that story. To me, that’s so much, it’s very much so emblematic of the American dream.
    It’s the power of an idea, being able to come from a small village growing up in poverty, but being able to raise a daughter, educate your children, and then raise a daughter that’s running for US Congress. To me, that is the power of this country. That’s the positivity of what this country has to offer, and that’s what my candidacy is about, and that’s what this campaign is about,” she said.
    While she has been running a very positive campaign in her district, Patel of late has been a target of hate crime and racial abuse because of her ethnicity.
    Following this, Hindu and Jewish groups across the country have come out in her support. Hindu American PAC recently held a fundraiser for her.
    Patel is a strong advocate of India-US relationship. “Our relationship with India is very critical. I think there’s a burgeoning young population there. There’s a lot of hunger and desire to build a life and to contribute to the growth of India, but also globally there’s a lot of talent. So how can the United States, particularly how can Western Pennsylvania best position itself to attract that talent?” she said.
    “We’re home to Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pittsburgh, and other university institutions. Many students do come from India. They earn their degrees. So being able to continue to build out a more robust visa program to allow people to attend the universities, to enter into the workforce, build small businesses, innovate and solve some of the biggest challenges that we’re facing in this country, including addressing things like the climate crisis,” she said.
    “It’s going to take innovation and real thought to be able to tackle the biggest crisis that our generation is facing. And I think that to be able to build coalitions globally, it’s absolutely critical to be able to address those concerns,” Patel said.