The Indian Panorama

Category: United States

  • Invest India Business Forum in Seattle showcases Indian Pomegranates, Araku Coffee

    • Investment opportunities in AI, Ag-Tech, Quantum, Photonics, Higher Education and Healthcare Discussed
    • Largest Trade Mission from State of Washington to visit India
    A collage of photographs of the occasion.

    SEATTLE, WA (TIP): In partnership with Montana World Affairs Council and ZOHO, Consulate General of India in Seattle hosted the second edition of Invest India Business Forum at the Bell Harbor International Conference Center today.
    CEOs and senior executives of several multinational companies from the Greater Seattle area, along with local dignitaries attended, which included representatives from Microsoft, Salesforce, Amazon, T-Mobile among others. Leading Industry experts from the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Photonics, Quantum Computing, Ag-Tech, Healthcare and Higher Education made detailed presentation on the investment opportunities and the presented on the successful state of progress in those sectors in India and their investment potential.

    As a follow up from today’s Invest India Business Forum (IIBF), Greater Seattle Partners (GSP), along with Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce will be leading Washington State’s largest trade mission ever to visit India from 28 January to 07 February 2026. The delegation includes nearly 30 plus members from Port of Seattle, City of Bellevue Economic Development, Mayor of Redmond, and senior leadership of Microsoft, Amazon and Boeing. Ms. Rebecca Lovell, Interim President & CEO of GSP addressed the gathering and looked forward to developing stronger commercial and investment ties between Seattle and India.

    The event also showcased various experiential Indian products on display for tasting and exports to the US Pacific Northwest, which included the premium Indian “Bhagwa Variety” pomegranates for tasting and these would be very soon available at local retail stores in USA. These Bhagwa variety of Indian pomegranates produced in Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka, are renowned worldwide for their rich flavor, deep red color and high nutritional value. Since India is one of the leading producers of pomegranates in the world, there has been an increased demand in recent years after US granted market access to Indian pomegranates in 2023. Other items on display included ODOP (One District One Product) cultural heritage items from all 28 States of India, Araku coffee from the foothills of eastern ghats of Southern India and some of India’s finest wines and hand-crafted spirits.

    Addressing the gathering, Mr. Eric Wexler, CEO of Providence, commended India’s healthcare potential and highlighted Providence’s recently inaugurated Global Capability Center in Hyderabad, which is projected to create more than 2000 new jobs. The facility will focus on building AI-enabled advanced healthcare technology solutions by leveraging India’s talent pool.

    Representative of ZOHO showcased how AI driven locally developed data models were being utilized in India, as it pushes for digital self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and data sovereignty. It may be noted that Government of India has recently adopted Zoho’s technology solutions such as its Office Suite, sending a positive signal of encouragement to Indian startups.

    The Invest India Business Forum was also attended by a large delegation of senior business leaders from the Montana World Affairs Council. It may be noted that a youth delegation led by Montana World Affairs Council had recently visited India and Montana State Governor Greg Gianforte had hosted a welcome reception at the State Capitol in Helena.

    The Invest India Business Forum (IIBF) aimed to deepen economic ties between US Pacific Northwest and India by presenting India’s investment potential in key priority sectors. Additionally, the Forum also served as a platform to showcase Indian export-ready products with strong potential in the Greater Seattle market. As such, IIBF aimed to complement Consulate’s ongoing efforts to advance 3Ts – Trade, Tourism & Technology by promoting investments, industry linkages and exports.

    For any further clarifications/ details, please contact Press Officer Consul Soumith Raju, Phone: 206-412-0448, Email: pic.seattle@mea.gov.in.

    (Based on a Press Release issued by Press Officer Consul Soumith Raju)

  • Global UN Leader Siddharth Chatterjee to Deliver Keynote at House of Lords Commemoration of International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness

    Global UN Leader Siddharth Chatterjee to Deliver Keynote at House of Lords Commemoration of International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness

    LONDON (TIP): The House of Lords will host a landmark global commemoration of the International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness on January 31, 2026, marking 49 years of transformative, on-ground impact by the Eye Foundation of America (EFA) for children since 1977—largely across India and Africa.

    Adding exceptional global gravitas to the occasion, Siddharth Chatterjee, United Nations Resident Coordinator in China, will join the commemoration and deliver a high-level keynote address, underscoring childhood blindness as a critical, solvable development challenge at the intersection of health, education, equity, and economic productivity.

    Hosted at the House of Lords, the event brings together senior leaders from the United Nations system, global philanthropy, Rotary and Lions leadership, diplomats, policymakers, clinicians, CSR heads, and youth champions—united by a shared commitment to end preventable childhood blindness worldwide.

    Mr. Chatterjee’s address will highlight the urgency of integrated public health action, scalable partnerships, and outcomes-driven investment—calling for governments, multilaterals, and the private sector to accelerate proven models that protect sight early in life. His participation reflects the growing global consensus that vision is foundational to learning, human capital formation, and inclusive growth.

    For nearly five decades, Eye Foundation of America has led pioneering, community-rooted programs—saving and restoring sight for millions of children through neonatal screening, pediatric eye care, capacity building, and systems strengthening. EFA’s work has demonstrated that early detection and timely intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s life—and a nation’s future.

    The January 31 commemoration also reinforces a global call to action: institutionalize childhood blindness prevention within national health systems and CSR frameworks, and rally the world toward a future where no child is needlessly blind.

    About the International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness

    Observed on January 31, the Day mobilizes governments, multilaterals, civil society, and the private sector to advance solutions that eliminate preventable childhood blindness and secure every child’s right to sight.

    High-Level Statement

    Siddharth Chatterjee said

    “A world without childhood blindness is not an aspiration—it is an achievable global development goal. When we protect a child’s sight, we protect education, dignity, and the future of nations.”

    Distinguished Global Presence

    The commemoration at the House of Lords will also witness the presence of senior leaders and representatives from the Commonwealth Secretariat, Lions Clubs International, and Rotary International, reinforcing a powerful, cross-continental coalition committed to eliminating preventable childhood blindness worldwide.

  • International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness to Be Commemorated at the House of Lords

    LONDON (TIP): Global leaders from health, policy, philanthropy, and youth movements will gather at the **House of Lords, London**, on **Saturday, January 31, 2026**, to commemorate the **International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness (IDWWCB)**—a global observance dedicated to eliminating preventable childhood blindness worldwide.

    The high-level commemoration marks **49 years of service to children since January 31, 1977**, when the first eye camp was conducted, launching a movement that has since transformed millions of young lives through prevention, treatment, and long-term systems of pediatric eye care across continents.

    The event is led by the **Eye Foundation of America (EFA)** in collaboration with global partners and youth leaders, and is hosted at one of the world’s most influential legislative institutions—underscoring the importance of integrating childhood vision care into **public health policy, education systems, and global development agendas**.

    Childhood blindness remains one of the most preventable public health challenges. With over **90% of learning dependent on vision**, unaddressed eye conditions significantly impact educational outcomes, economic opportunity, and lifelong well-being. The International Day aligns with the **United Nations Sustainable Development Goals**, particularly **SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being)** and **SDG 4 (Quality Education)**, reinforcing vision care as a critical enabler of equity and human potential.

    The global movement was founded by **Dr. V. K. Raju**, an internationally respected ophthalmologist and humanitarian whose work spans India, Africa, the United States, and beyond. The commemoration is supported by **Lord Rami Ranger**, Member of the House of Lords and a longstanding advocate for global humanitarian causes.

    The January 31 commemoration serves as a unified call to governments, multilateral agencies, corporate leaders, and civil society to accelerate collective action toward a future where no child is blind due to avoidable causes.
    (Based on a Press Release)

  • AAPI Delegation Champions Unity and Healthcare Collaboration in Gujarat

    AAPI Delegation Champions Unity and Healthcare Collaboration in Gujarat

    Historic Meetings Advance Shared Vision for Medical Excellence in India and Beyond

    • Ajay Ghosh

    AHMEDABAD (TIP): The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) reaffirmed its commitment to unity and healthcare advancement during a series of pivotal engagements in Gujarat, India. At the heart of these meetings was the message that unity is the cornerstone of AAPI’s impact—both within its membership and in its partnerships with Indian healthcare leaders.

    During the Indian Medical Association (IMA) convention in Ahmedabad, an AAPI delegation led by President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty met with the Honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Rajnikant Patel. The delegation presented a comprehensive memorandum addressing critical healthcare challenges, including “the urgent need to expand postgraduate training slots in emergency medicine and the importance of structured training programs for first responders and EMTs,” a priority strongly advocated by Dr. Lokesh Edara, former Chair of the AAPI Board of Trustees.

    Dr. Hetal Gor, AAPI Chairwoman, eloquently shared AAPI’s mission and objectives in Gujarati, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to enhancing healthcare across India. “Our vision is to collaborate, innovate, and uplift the standards of care in every community we touch,” Dr. Gor stated. The Chief Minister responded with deep appreciation, requesting that the IMA, in collaboration with AAPI, prepare and submit a formal memorandum to his office for further action.

    The delegation’s visit to the iconic Statue of Unity served as a powerful symbol of their message. Reflecting on the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, the group drew inspiration from his pivotal role in uniting the nation. “Standing before this monumental tribute, we were reminded that unity is not just a word—it is the very foundation upon which greatness is built,” remarked Dr. Chakrabarty.

    Patel’s achievements resonated with AAPI’s ongoing efforts. “Patel’s legacy teaches us that when diverse voices come together under shared principles, no challenge is insurmountable. Division weakens, but unity empowers,” Dr. Chakrabarty emphasized. He called upon all AAPI members to “stand shoulder to shoulder, celebrate our shared identity, and carry forward the torch of solidarity.”

    Unity, the delegation stressed, remains AAPI’s “greatest power.” It is the force that “gives us credibility in the halls of power, amplifies our service to patients and communities, and ensures that AAPI continues to rise as a beacon of excellence, dignity, and heritage.”

    Another highlight of the Gujarat visit was the historic meeting with IMA leadership during the organization’s centennial conference. The gathering culminated in the drafting of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AAPI and IMA, laying the groundwork for future collaborative events that will blend Indian and American medical expertise. “This meeting was not just about agreements—it was about building bridges, fostering trust, and envisioning a future of collaboration,” said Dr. Chakrabarty.

    AAPI members actively participated in the conference, delivering lectures and engaging in vibrant exchanges of ideas. The event underscored “the importance of dialogue in shaping evidence-based practices that serve patients with compassion and clarity.”

    Dr. Chakrabarty concluded, “AAPI is our collective home, our shared voice, and our enduring strength. Just as Patel refused to let India fragment, we must refuse to let discord dilute our mission.” As AAPI and its partners continue to build bridges and uplift communities, their unity remains the guiding light for a future of medical excellence and service to humanity.

  • AAPI’s Landmark Odisha Global Health Summit

    AAPI’s Landmark Odisha Global Health Summit

    Forging Partnerships, Celebrating Achievements, and Shaping the Future

    • Ajay Ghosh

    BHUBANESWAR (TIP): The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) organized its 19th annual Global Health Summit (GHS) from January 9–11, 2026, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, which was attended by over 100 Physician leaders from the United States, along with nearly 500 participants from India.

    Organized for the first time in the state of Odisha under the leadership of AAPI President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, the Summit brought together leading physicians, researchers, educators, and public health experts from India and the United States, united in their mission to advance medical innovation, global partnerships, and community impact. Held across the Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Mayfair Lagoon, and Swosti Premium, the summit showcased groundbreaking medical developments and collaborative initiatives aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery in India.

    Setting the Stage for Global Collaboration

    Dr. Amit Chakrabarty opened the summit by highlighting its transformative potential of the Summit: “Global Healthcare Summit 2026 reflects AAPI’s unwavering commitment to elevating global health standards. When experts from two of the world’s most dynamic healthcare systems come together, the impact extends far beyond conference halls—it reaches communities, hospitals, and future generations.”

    India’s Minister for Health, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, in a video message at GHS, commended AAPI’s role as a bridge between India and the United States: “AAPI stands as a powerful symbol of professional excellence, global leadership and dedicated service to humanity, representing over 100,000 Physicians of Indian origin practicing in the United States. Through sustained academic collaboration, knowledge exchange and capacity building, AAPI has significantly strengthened healthcare systems in both nations. Service beyond borders is the highest form of leadership.”

    Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, emphasized the university’s partnership with AAPI: “KIIT is one of India’s leading private universities, known for its academic excellence, world-class infrastructure, and impressive placement records.” He lauded AAPI, which represents over 100.000 Indian American physicians, playing a vital role as a bridge between India and the US through academic collaboration, research, knowledge sharing, and capacity building.

    Welcoming AAPI delegates, Prof. R C Das, Dean and Principal of KIMS, said, “A hearty welcome to AAPI delegates to the Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, which has redefined healthcare services in Odisha and neighboring states, anchored on a genuine desire to promote a healthy society and provide advanced medical care.”

    Others who addressed the audience during the inaugural ceremony were Prof. CBK Mohanty, Pro Vice Chancelor of KIMS; Dr. Atashu Nayak, President, Odisha Physicians of America; Dr. Ajit K Mohanty, Chair of GHS Host Committee.

    Rabi N. Samanta, Director of the GHS Host Committee, stated, “We are extremely happy to have the esteemed delegates of AAPI from the United States, join us here in Odisha with the objective of enhancing healthcare delivery in India.”

    During the gala on the first day of the GHS, AAPI recognized and honored Dr. Sita Kanta Dash for his contributions to society both in the USA and Odisha. Dr. Dash is the Chairman of Kalinga Hospital, a part-sponsor of this year’s GHS. Dr. Dosh rose from rural Odisha to global acclaim through education and innovation in the field of Probiotics.

    Dr. Santosh Dora, CEO of Kalinga Hospital, was also honored during the gala for his support in organizing the GHS.

    “Our community programs reflect AAPI’s heart. Beyond CMEs and conferences, we are committed to protecting and empowering the next generation,” emphasized Dr. Meher Medavaram, President-Elect of AAPI. “Our workshops and community collaboration are designed to strengthen frontline decision-making. These are the skills that save lives in the golden hour,”

    Clinical Excellence and Youth Empowerment

    Under the leadership of Dr. Chakrabarty, GHS prioritized youth engagement and medical education, drawing participants from both India and the United States. A diverse lineup of activities for medical students, residents, and early-career clinicians included poster presentations and hands-on skills workshops.

    Among the summit’s highlights, the AAPI-IMG Section Update provided a vital lifeline for international medical graduates. “We want to demystify the process for those seeking U.S. residencies—guidance on applications, interview strategies, and what to expect in a new healthcare system,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, President of AAPI.

    “We aimed to create an inclusive and interactive learning environment, including the much sought after AAPI’s Poster Contest, where over 150 students could showcase their research, practice clinical skills, and network with global experts,” shared Dr. Priyanka Kolli, President of AAPI’s Medical Students, Residents, and Fellows section.

    “These workshops and mentoring sessions are investments in our collective future,” explained Dr. Abhishek Kashyap, co-coordinator of the student activities.

    The Scientific Forum featured high-impact CME sessions, addressing metabolic syndrome (Dr. Prasun K. Jalal), advances in hemoglobinopathy treatment (Dr. Arun Panigrahi), healthcare gaps in India (Dr. Lokesh Edara), and cervical cancer updates (Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nayak). The sessions on PSA Tightrope Balancing (Dr. Amit Chakrabarty), New Data and Techniques in Management of Carotid Stenosis (Dr. Uttam Tripati) and Navigating the Thin Red Line in The ED & ICU (Dr. Ajit Kayal).

    Live robotic and minimally invasive surgical demonstrations, broadcast live from the United States by internationally renowned experts exemplified advances in surgical technology. The session on “Cutting Edge Developments in Urology” was chaired by Dr. Ashok Hemal and was Co-Chaired by Dr. Amit Chakrabarty,

    A parallel breakout star studded session on Ayurveda Consortium was headed by Dr. Amit Shah and Dr. Arti Prasad, which featured luminaries, including Mr. Rajesh Kotecha (Secretary, Union Ministry, AYUSH, India) and Dr. Charles Elder, Executive Director, Maharishi International University.

    The session on Physician, Heal Thyself: Mental Health, Suicide Risk, and the Implementation of Prevention Programs, presented by Dr, Tarak Vasavada highlighted the very important concerns experienced by the medical fraternity around the world.

    A large-scale Mass CPR Training Event for students under the leadership of Dr. Vemury Murthy reinforced AAPI’s dedication to community empowerment.

    Artificial Intelligence and Emergency Care Innovation

    This Summit spotlighted Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, with a pioneering session on “AI in Global Medical Practices,” and was led by Dr. Suresh Reddy, and Dr. Inderpal Chhabra. Panelists, Kinjal Saxena (CTO, AIG), Dr. Vidhur Mahajan (CEO, CARPL.AI), Dr. Suvrankar Datta, and Dr. Priyaa Jain shared insights into the transformative role of AI.

    “AI is transforming medicine at a pace we’ve never seen before. AAPI is committed to ensuring that Indian and U.S. physicians lead this transformation with responsibility and vision,” said Dr. Seema Arora, Secretary of AAPI.

    The Resuscitation & Emergency Medical Care Workshop, led by Dr. Vemury Murthy and Dr. Anjali Gulati, covered the 2025 AHA Resuscitation Guidelines, sudden cardiac arrest research, and the National Emergency Life Support Program, with hands-on simulations and AI-based clinical case discussions.

    Dr. Krishan Kumar, President-Elect of AAPI noted, “A major objective of the GHS has been providing education on current trends in medicine, cutting edge technologies and on relevant policies. These discussions are not just academic, they are actionable. Our goal is to bring evidence‑based solutions to the forefront of India’s healthcare landscape.”

    Recognizing the dire need for an increased donor pool amongst people of Indian origin across the globe, the Stem Cell Donor Drive in the United States was launched in 2024, by Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the immediate past president of AAPI. This noble initiative achieved remarkable success under the leadership of Dr. Shahi Kuppala, Chair of the Stem Cell Drive.

    With the objective of enhancing the stem donor pool, Dr Chakrabarty launched the Stem Donor Drive during the Global Healthcare Summitt in Odisha, in collaboration with the Global Association of Indian Medical Students.

    “We received 238 Stem Donors who registrations at our Stem Donor Registry during the Global Healthcare Summit,” said Dr. Sashi Kuppala. “To put it in context, we would have had to do 20 drives to get those many registrations in the United States. Thanks to Dr. Amit Chakrabarthy, we successfully launched the project in India.”

    Dr. Chakrabarty expressed his “deep gratitude to the many AAPI members, and the students and staff at Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, who have overwhelmingly supported and participated at AAPI’s Stem Cell Drive during the GHS in Orissa.

    Prof. R C Das, Dean and Principal of KIMS stressed the importance and urged the medical students at KIM to come forward and register for Stem Donorship. The students were then led to pledge and commit to encourage Stem Donorship among the patient population they are committed to serve.

    Parallel CME collaborative educational forum focused on TB elimination, led by Dr. Manoj Jain, and Dr. Smita Joshi: Diabetes and Obesity, led by Dr. Dibyajiban Mohapatra; and, Critical Care Skills, led by Dr. Kalpalatha Guntupalli and Dr Siddhatha Mishra.

    “GHS 2026 was truly memorable. The hosts were exceptional, setting a gold standard for collaboration and hospitality,” said Dr. Soumya Neravetla, Treasurer, AAPI. “This summit strengthened Indo-U.S. partnerships, inspired young clinicians, and advanced community impact.”

    Women’s Leadership and Community Initiatives

    The final day centered on women’s leadership in medicine, with the Women in Healthcare CME co-chaired by Dr. Kalpalatha Guntupalli, and Dr. Tapti Panda. Sessions addressed gender equity, leadership pathways, and the evolving role of women in global healthcare. “The Real and the Reel,” led by Dr. Priya Abraham (Director, ICMR–National Institute of Virology), celebrated the story behind India’s COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, with panelists Pallavi Joshi and Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri discussing the intersection of science and storytelling.

    “From Pitch to Policy” honored four visually challenged cricket champions from Odisha, members of India’s victorious women’s blind cricket team at the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 in Colombo.

    Other community health initiatives during the GHS included the launching of the first AAPI -HPV Vaccination Drive India at the MKCG Medical College, where 100 girls were vaccinated. Dr. Chakrabarty said, “The HPV Project by AAPI will continue for the next several years with the objective of vaccinating 5,000 girls.”

    Faculty from MKCG Medical College, including Dr. Bharati Mishra and Dr. Suchitra Das, expressed gratitude for AAPI’s flagship event and advocated continued collaboration in healthcare and mentoring. Dr. Chakrabarty expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his Alma Matter for hosting the AAPI delegation.

    In addition, during the GHS, AAPI launched the AAPI Child Welfare Initiative India, chaired by Dr Sunitha Pollepalli. AAPI will continue the efforts, where AAPI has adopted Four Orphanages and Schools for the Blind, donating blankets, clothes, and other essential equipment in Cuttack, Odisha.

    Describing GHS as “Truly an exceptional experience,” Dr Hetal Gor, AAPI BOT Chair, said, “Not only we interacted with local physicians, residents, & students, and judged poster presentations, but it was a spiritual and cultural experience, visiting several holy Temples and cultural sites.”

    The mesmerizing cultural spectacular on Jan 9th was performed by talented artists from the Orissa Dance Academy. On Jan 10th at the Rose Garden, KITT, led by Saswat Joshi, who has popularized Odisha’s Culture, Music, Dance and Handlooms across the globe, the GHS delegates were presented with live performances, depicting the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Odisha through captivating live dance and music performances.

    AAPI’s Vision Forward

    As GHS 2026 drew to a close, AAPI leadership reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Indo-U.S. medical collaboration. Dr. Chakrabarty summed up the summit’s spirit: “AAPI’s strength lies in our unity, our expertise, and our purpose. Together, we are shaping a healthier future for India and the world.” For further details, visit: www.summit.aapiusa.org

    (Report by Ajay Ghosh, Media Coordinator, AAPI, in consultation with Dr. Amit Chakrabarty)

  • Consulate General of India in Seattle Organizes World Hindi Day 2026

    Consulate General of India in Seattle Organizes World Hindi Day 2026

    Participating poets.

    SEATTLE, (TIP): On the occasion of World Hindi Day, the Consulate General of India, Seattle, organized a special “Kavi Sammelan” (Poetry Recital) on 10 January 2026 at the Multipurpose Hall of the Consulate premises in Seattle. The event was organized in collaboration with Mahila Kavya Manch (MKM), Seattle, with the objective of further strengthening awareness and appreciation of the Hindi language and India’s rich cultural heritage in the Pacific Northwest region.

    Consul General of India in Seattle Prakash Gupta delivering his remarks at World Hindi Diwas celebrations.
    Members of Seattle Mahila Kavya Manch (MKM) at World Hindi Diwas celebrations.
    Young poets participating in the World Hindi Diwas celebrations.

    The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Hon’ble Consul General Mr. Prakash Gupta and the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Mr. P. P. Chaudhary, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) and Chairperson of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on “One Nation, One Election” followed by a graceful rendition of Saraswati Vandana.

    Participants watching snippets from World Hindi Diwas celebrated by young kids at Ardmore Elementary School, Bellevue.
    Lighting of the ceremonial lamp at World Hindi Diwas celebrations, 10 January 2026, Seattle.

    Thereafter, eminent poets from the community enthusiastically participated in the Hindi poetry recitation and enthralled the audience with their compositions on a wide range of themes. A total of fifteen poets recited their poems, covering subjects related to Hindi literature, society, culture, India–US relations, and contemporary inspirational themes.

    Hon’ble Chairperson of Joint Parliamentary Committee – One Nation, One Election, Shri Prem Prakash Singh delivering his remarks at World Hindi Diwas celebrations.
    Members of Rajasthani community in Seattle felicitating Shri Prem Prakash Singh, Chairperson of Joint Parliamentary Committee – One Nation, One Election.

    On this occasion, a cultural exhibition was also organized at the Consulate premises, showcasing the rich art and handicrafts of Indian states under the One District–One Product (ODOP) initiative. The programme witnessed the participation of a large number of Hindi enthusiasts from the Indian diaspora, local dignitaries, and members of the Indian-origin community.

    Participants savoring flavors of Indian cuisine at World Hindi Diwas celebrations.
    Poets from Seattle Mahila Kavya Manch (MKM) at World Hindi Diwas celebrations.

    Principal and teachers from Ardmore Elementary School, Bellevue (Washington State) were also present at the event. It is noteworthy that the Bellevue School District has introduced a Hindi Heritage Language Program at Ardmore Elementary School, providing students with an opportunity to learn the Hindi language and Indian culture. This is the first elementary school in the State of Washington where such a Hindi language programme has been formally introduced, marking a significant initiative towards promoting linguistic diversity, cultural inclusion, and multilingual education in the region.

    A Poet from Seattle Mahila Kavya Manch (MKM) being felicitated by Consul General of India in Seattle, Prakash Gupta.

    In the concluding session, the Hon’ble Consul General shared his views on the global significance of the Hindi language and appreciated the valuable contributions of all participating poets. The poets were also felicitated by the Hon’ble Consul General. The Consulate General of India, Seattle, remains committed to promoting the Hindi language and strengthening cultural and linguistic ties with the Indian-American community.

    (Based on a Press Release issued by Soumith Raju, Consul, CGI Seattle)

  • Seattle University hosts pre-Summit briefing session on India AI Impact Summit 2026

    Seattle University hosts pre-Summit briefing session on India AI Impact Summit 2026

    SEATTLE (TIP): In partnership with Seattle University (SU), Consulate General of India in Seattle co-hosted a briefing session on the upcoming AI India Impact Summit 2026 today at the Casey Commons Conference Hall at SU.

    CEO of Remitly, Matt Oppenheimer presenting on Remitly’s experience of investing in India’s AI ecosystem at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.
    Consul General Prakash Gupta providing an overview of India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.

    The session focused on the theme “People, Planet, and Progress”, highlighting India’s AI strategy for social good, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth. A large number of students and senior faculty from Seattle University attended the event which provided them an overview of India’s expanding AI ecosystem and its evolution.

    Panelists addressing queries of participants in an interactive session at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.
    Participants at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.
    Participants at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.

    The keynote remarks were delivered by CEO of the popular remittance app REMITLY, Mr. Matt Oppenheimer, who shared Remitly’s experience of investing in India’s AI-driven future and highlighted how Remitly’s Bengaluru office has benefited from reforms in Ease of Doing Business in India.

    Dr. Onur Bakiner, Professor of Political Science and Director of Technical Ethics Initiative, Seattle University addressing participants at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.
    Participants signing up at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.
    Participants at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.

    In addition, Professor of Political Science and Director of the Technology Ethics Initiative at Seattle University Prof. Onur Bakiner addressed SU students and scholars on navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in the AI age.

    Panelists at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing (12 January 2026, Seattle University)
    Participants at India AI Impact Summit pre-summit briefing.

    Delivering the inaugural address, Consul General of India in Seattle provided an overall overview of the preparations for AI Impact Summit 2026 and profile of the high-level delegation expected to participate from the Greater Seattle area.

    India AI Impact Summit Pre-summit briefing organized at Seattle University.

    Today’s briefing on the AI India Impact Summit 2026 was the second in a series of such events hosted in the Greater Seattle Area. It may be noted that CGI Seattle had earlier hosted an AI INDIA Impact Summit 2026: Pre Event Briefing Session for US Congressmen and Tech CEOs on 07 November 2025 at the Consulate premises wherein, U.S. Rep. Adam Smith and Michael Baumgartner had special briefing sessions from senior tech industry representatives from Microsoft, Salesforce and Anicca Data Science Solutions.
    (Based on a Press Release issued by Soumith Raju, Consul, CGI Seattle)

  • The US Has Yet to Notify the UN About Washington’s Withdrawal From Entities

    The US Has Yet to Notify the UN About Washington’s Withdrawal From Entities

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The United Nations says that beyond the social media announcement from the United States government on Jan. 7 about its withdrawal from 66 international and UN entities, the information has not been officially communicated to the world body. Washington has also not followed the legal process required for a country to dissociate from binding international treaties it has signed and ratified, such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

    “I checked with our legal counsel earlier today, we had not received any official letter,” Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, told journalists on Jan. 8. “We have not received any further official communication beyond what was posted on the White House website.”

    Washington announced in the evening of Jan. 7 on social media that it is withdrawing from a broad slate of international organizations and UN bodies, substantiating the threat by President Trump to separate with UN bodies that do not serve his country’s interests or that the US considers a waste of Americans’ taxpayer money.

    The decision by the US to cut ties to 66 international organizations, treaties and UN entities was apparently a result of a review conducted under Executive Order 14199, one of the wide-ranging executive orders signed by Trump in February 2025. The review could be a prelude to the US Congress releasing more funding to the UN general operating budget now that the review is done.

    UN reacts

    On Jan. 8, when the UN released its first official response to the news, Guterres expressed “regrets” over the US announcement but added that “all United Nations entities will go on with the implementation of their mandates as given by Member States.”

    “The United Nations has a responsibility to deliver for those who depend on us,” the statement, conveyed from Dujarric by email to the media, continued. “We will continue to carry out our mandates with determination.”

    Of the 66 organizations, 31 are linked to the UN. They include the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, an organ led by a Chinese national; various regional economic and social commissions; the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary General for Children in Armed Conflict and the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict; the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change; and peace-building agencies as well as others that promote international law, sustainable environmental practices and gender rights, such as UN Women. The UN Population Fund, also listed, was severed by the US in early 2025. (A list of the UN bodies and their roles is explained at the end of this story.)

    Since the Trump administration has taken the reins in 2025, the US has turned its back on matters at the UN related to gender equality, climate change, diversity/equity/inclusion as well as the Sustainable Development Goals.

    Vanessa Frazier, who leads the office on children and armed conflict, which aims to protect children’s rights amid war, said in a post on X that “ it is quite unfortunate that the US now seems to be of the opinion that children being collateral of war is OK”

    According to the US, “withdrawal” from UN entities is defined as ceasing participation and/or funding to the extent permitted by law.

    “Poorly run”

    US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement on Jan. 7, as the White House released the list of 66 entities it was cutting off, the organizations were “redundant, mismanaged, unnecessary, wasteful, or poorly run,” and in some cases “captured by the interests of actors advancing agendas contrary to US national interests.” He added that continued participation in such bodies was incompatible with American sovereignty and prosperity.

    The move marks a major escalation in Washington’s shift from multilateral engagement, prompting concern and bewilderment across diplomatic, legal and academic communities. Trump pulled out of some high-profile UN agencies during his first term and again in the beginning of his second term, such as the Human Rights Council and the World Health Organization, but the Jan. 7 actions are more far reaching in scale. And the moves will worsen the dire financial crisis the organization is struggling to manage.

    The US released $2 billion at the end of 2025 to fund UN-coordinated humanitarian aid for a select list of countries as the US is still withholding at least two years of mandated dues to the organization’s regular budget, totaling approximately $1.3 billion.

    It is unclear whether the withdrawals from UN bodies will impact the US paying its assessed contribution — if it does so — but Dujarric said Washington is obligated to pay regardless of unilateral withdrawal from a UN agency or program.

    Many of those the US said it would withdraw from are funded by UN assessed contributions paid by member states. Dujarric said some of the agencies rely on funding from “the regular budget, with the vast majority of their work then being funded voluntarily.”

    “Member states who signed on, joined this club have to pay the dues,” he said. “We can, we can, the Charter is not à la carte, as we said, and . . . we know we’re not going to renegotiate the Charter. The UN is an organization of 193 member states, two observer states [the Holy See and Palestine]. It is in the interest of all these member states and the two observers to defend the principles that they themselves have created.”

    According to Article 19 of the UN Charter, a member state risks losing its vote in the 193-member General Assembly if its arrears equal or exceed the amount due for the previous two years, but it is unclear what happens in the Security Council when a permanent member runs afoul of Article 19. A European diplomat told PassBlue, however, that even small US contributions to certain entities over the last few years could mean it is meeting some level of its legal financial obligations.

    Picking and choosing

    Ronny Patz, an independent analyst on the UN, said that while US engagement with the UN peace-building architecture has historically been limited, the departure of a permanent member of the Security Council from peace-building work represents a symbolic, practical setback for collective conflict-prevention efforts.

    Patz warned that the move risks normalizing what he described as “à la carte multilateralism,” whereby states choose which international organizations to support. “Once selective disengagement is tolerated,” Patz said in a post on LinkedIn, “all member states could refuse to fund or participate in the parts they dislike, weakening the UN’s role as a multipurpose organization built on cross-domain compromise.”

    Theodoros Rousopoulos, president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, expressed concern over the withdrawal from the Council’s Venice Commission, an advisory body on constitutional matters, as the rule of law is pressured globally.

    In the US, Democratic members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee criticized the Trump decision, saying that participation in international organizations allows Washington to shape global norms, strengthen alliances and counter adversaries. “America first = America alone,” the committee posted on its X page.

    Ben Saul, the UN specialist on human rights and counterterrorism, said that the withdrawal from the International Law Commission “weakens efforts to forge cooperative global solutions to common human challenges.”

    He added: “The US will weaken global counterterrorism efforts by withdrawing from the Global Counterterrorism Forum and the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law.”

    Dujarric summed up Guterres’s attitude despite the latest US setbacks, saying on Jan. 8: “I spent quite a time with him this morning, and he is determined as ever to continue his work and continuing to defend the Charter and continuing to defend this international institution.”

    What the UN organizations do

    Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA): Acts as the UN’s policy engine on global development, producing data and analysis on population trends, inequality, sustainable development goals and public administration. Governments rely on its statistics and guidance to shape domestic policy.

    Economic Commission for Africa (ECA): Supports African governments with research and policy advice on economic growth, industrialization, trade integration and climate resilience, often shaping regional development strategies.

    Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC): Known for its economic research, ECLAC analyzes inequality, growth and fiscal policy in Latin America and the Caribbean and advises governments on development planning.

    Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP): Works on inclusive growth, infrastructure, disaster risk reduction and digital connectivity across the Asia-Pacific, the world’s most populous region.

    Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA): Focuses on development challenges in the Arab world, including economic reform, social protection, water scarcity and post-conflict recovery.

    International Law Commission: A body of legal experts tasked with developing and clarifying international law, including treaties governing diplomacy, state responsibility and the laws of war.

    International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals: Handles remaining legal responsibilities from the Rwanda and former Yugoslavia war crimes tribunals, including appeals, witness protection and sentence enforcement.

    International Trade Centre (ITC): Helps small businesses and exporters in developing countries access global markets, providing technical assistance on trade rules, quality standards and supply chains.

    Office of the Special Adviser on Africa: Advises the UN Secretary-General on political, security and development trends in Africa and helps coordinate international support for the continent.

    Office of the Special Representative for Children in Armed Conflict: Documents and advocates against the recruitment, abuse and killing of children in war zones, pressing governments and armed groups to comply with international law.

    Office of the Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict: Works to prevent sexual violence used as a weapon of war, supporting survivors and pushing for accountability in conflict and post-conflict settings.

    Office of the Special Representative on Violence Against Children: Addresses violence against children beyond conflict zones, including abuse, exploitation and harmful practices, often working with national governments on child-protection laws.

    Peacebuilding Commission: Brings together donors, governments and regional actors to support countries emerging from conflict, aiming to prevent relapse into violence.

    Peacebuilding Fund: Provides rapid, flexible funding for peacebuilding efforts in fragile states, often filling gaps where traditional aid is too slow.

    Permanent Forum on People of African Descent: An advisory body focused on addressing racism, discrimination and development challenges faced by people of African descent worldwide.

    UN Alliance of Civilizations: Promotes dialogue across cultures and religions, aiming to counter extremism and reduce polarization through education, media and youth programs.

    UN Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+): Helps developing countries protect forests by linking conservation to climate finance and sustainable land use.

    UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD): Provides research and policy advice on trade, debt, investment and technology, often advocating for fairer global economic rules for developing nations.

    UN Democracy Fund: Finances grassroots projects that support democratic participation, civil society and human rights, particularly in fragile democracies.

    UN Energy: Coordinates the UN’s work on access to affordable, reliable and clean energy, aligning agencies around global energy goals.

    UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women): Leads UN efforts on women’s rights, gender equality and violence prevention, advising governments and supporting programs on the ground.

    UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): The treaty body that oversees global climate negotiations, including the Paris Agreement, and tracks countries’ emissions commitments.

    UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat): Focuses on sustainable urban development, housing policy and slum upgrading as cities grow rapidly worldwide.

    UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR): Trains diplomats, civil servants and emergency responders, particularly from developing countries, on governance, diplomacy and crisis management.

    UN Oceans: Coordinates UN action on ocean conservation, fisheries management and marine pollution across multiple agencies.

    UN Population Fund (UNFPA): Works on reproductive health, maternal care and population data, often operating in fragile or humanitarian settings.

    UN Register of Conventional Arms: Encourages transparency in international arms transfers to build confidence and reduce the risk of conflict escalation.

    UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination: Brings together the heads of UN agencies to align strategy, budgets and policy priorities across the system.

    UN System Staff College: Provides professional training for UN staff and partners, focusing on leadership, coordination and complex crises.

    UN Water: Coordinates global efforts on freshwater access, sanitation and water management across UN agencies.

    UN University: A network of research institutes producing academic work on peace, sustainability, technology and development, often advising governments and the UN itself.
    (Source: Pass Blue)

  • Housefull Hearts & High Voltage Vibes: The Night Chicago Welcomed 2026 in Grand Desi Style

    Housefull Hearts & High Voltage Vibes: The Night Chicago Welcomed 2026 in Grand Desi Style

    • Balloon Drops, Belly Rolls & Bollywood Beats: The Housefull Revolution of New Year’s Eve 2025
    • Chicago’s Desi Dynasty Rings in 2026: One Night, One Venue, One Million Memories

    CHICAGO, IL (TIP): Chicago’s South Asian Community Rings in 2026 with Electrifying Housefull New Year’s Eve Celebration at Ashton Place. As the final hours of 2025 counted down on December 31, the grand ballroom at Ashton Place in Willowbrook, Illinois, transformed into a vibrant hub of joy, music, and community spirit. This sold-out “Housefull” New Year’s Eve event welcomed families, friends, and revelers from Chicago’s South Asian diaspora for an unforgettable night of celebration, marking a heartfelt goodbye to 2025 and a warm hello to 2026.

    From the moment guests arrived at 8:00 pm, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Dazzling lights illuminated the venue, smiles lit up every face, and beautiful costumes added to the festive energy. The open bar flowed generously, while the unlimited lavish buffet offered a delicious array of dishes that kept everyone satisfied and energized throughout the evening. The entertainment kicked off with high-energy flair. Anusha Reddy was host who did welcome speech.

    Time for a dance

    Professional singer and co-organizer Shraddha Marathe, also known as a composer, songwriter, and CEO of DE Dream Event LLC, welcomed the crowd with infectious enthusiasm. She highlighted the night’s highlights: unlimited food and drinks, non-stop fun, and a powerhouse lineup featuring DJ Salman, who kept the beats pumping with a perfect mix of Bollywood classics, energetic hits, and timeless favorites that had every generation on their feet.

    The Star Performer

    Live singing performances brought soul and nostalgia to the celebration. The talented singers Pratibha Jairath, Raju Bankapur, and Dr. Pardeep Sood delivered a medley of popular numbers that filled the room with emotion. The audience sang along, danced freely, and created magical moments as the performers transitioned seamlessly from one beloved song to another, including crowd-pleasers that evoked laughter, romance, and pure joy.

    Adding captivating visual spectacles was mesmerizing live acts. Ashorina, a renowned Chicago-based belly dancer from the acclaimed Safire Belly Dancers troupe, delivered powerful, graceful, and technically brilliant oriental performances that left the audience spellbound with her elegant movements and cultural authenticity. Her routine blended tradition with dynamic energy, earning cheers and admiration.

    Following this, Patti Zikmund brought athletic artistry to the stage with a breathtaking pole dance showcase. Combining strength, precision, and expressive flair, her performance added an exciting new dimension to the evening, drawing enthusiastic applause from the thrilled crowd.

    Entertainers all

    For the younger attendees, thoughtful activities ensured everyone could join the fun—face painting, balloon twisting, and a 360-photo booth right outside captured memorable moments with loved ones.

    As midnight approached, the energy reached its peak. The crowd gathered for a spectacular balloon drop that showered the room in colorful confetti, accompanied by a celebratory champagne toast to health, happiness, success, and wonderful memories in the year ahead. Hugs, cheers, and renewed dancing carried the party into the early hours of January 1, 2026.

    Throughout the night, the emcee—warm, humorous, and engaging—kept the momentum alive. She introduced the visionary promoters and partners: Altaf Bukhari (the positive captain of the ship), Nikhil Gupta (the entertainer), Anusha Reddy (the beautiful entrepreneur), Pranav Mathur, Brij Kukreja (personality), Shraddha Marathe, and others. The event also honored key sponsors and community leaders with heartfelt recognition and floral bouquets on stage, including Anil Loomba (successful businessman and philanthropist), Sunil Shah (New York Life founder and FIA chairman), Dr. Bhupinder and Anita Beri (veterinarian and CEO of Animal Care Cross Road Hospital), Manish and Shailja Gandhi, Sudhir Sukheja, and supporters like Mukesh Shah CPA and Prashant Mohanty.

    The success stemmed from dedicated teamwork and community generosity. Promoters Altaf Bukhari, Nikhil Gupta, Anusha Reddy, Shraddha Marathe, and Pranav Mathur, along with supporters Pratibha Jairath, Brij Kukreja, and Abhi Trivedi, created this seamless experience. Heartfelt thanks extended to friends including Dinesh K., Leela, Vimi, Meenu S., Rekha B., Deepa G., young Meenu V., Ashwini Ji, Kiran, Preeti, Shashi ji, the Srivastav group, Parveen Ji, and many more who made it possible.

    Recognizing Supporters

    Altaf Bukhari is president of Federation of Indian Associations (FIA)-Chicago IL, Prominent community leader, politician, businessman and promoter in show business. Anusha Reddy who is organizer , host of the evening, owner of AA (Anusha & Ahana) Entertainment who is also an entrepreneur (owns taco maya Arlington heights).

    What truly defined the night was its genuine family atmosphere. Multiple generations danced side by side, shared laughs, reflected on 2025’s best moments (in one word), and built new connections. Guests praised the smooth flow, exceptional food, top-notch entertainment, and welcoming vibe that made it feel like a big family gathering.

    New Year welcome with Champaigne.

    In a world craving meaningful togetherness, this Housefull celebration at Ashton Place stood as a powerful reminder of cultural pride, gratitude, and collective joy. It wasn’t just a party, it was a vibrant testament to unity, hope, new aspirations, and the strength of community.

    As attendees departed into the fresh dawn of 2026, they carried memories of laughter, music, dance, and renewed optimism for the year ahead.

    “This Housefull New Year’s Eve at Ashton Place beautifully captured the essence of community celebration—where laughter, music, heartfelt performances, and shared gratitude turn a simple gathering into something truly magical. The energy, from live singing and captivating dances to the midnight toast, showcased the warmth and unity of our South Asian diaspora. As we embrace 2026, let these moments inspire us to keep building connections, supporting one another, and celebrating life with the same joy and positivity” Suresh Bodiwala Chairman and Founder, Asian Media USA.
    (Photographs and Press release / Asian Media USA)

  • When US executed a ‘bold contingency plan’ to ensure Jaishankar’s security during government shutdown

    When US executed a ‘bold contingency plan’ to ensure Jaishankar’s security during government shutdown

    New York (TIP)- The US Department of State has highlighted a “mission-defining challenge” during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit here in November amid the US government shutdown, saying it put in a “bold contingency plan” to ensure his protection and security.
    An article dated December 30, 2025, by Supervisory Special Agent Gabriel Macias said that when thousands of commercial flights were grounded due to the US government shutdown last year, Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) special agents from the Dignitary Protection Division (DP), New York Field Office (NYFO), and Buffalo Resident Office (BFRO) faced a “mission-defining challenge.” Jaishankar, who was in Canada for the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on November 11-12, 2025, had then travelled to New York, where he held a bilateral meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the UN headquarters. “The successful execution of the mission ensured the foreign minister’s diplomatic agenda proceeded without disruption, advancing strategic US foreign policy interests fully aligned with the administration’s ‘America First’ policy priorities.
    “It also reflected the ethos emphasised by incoming DS leadership: disciplined execution, mission focus, technical proficiency, and unwavering readiness in support of American diplomacy,” the article said. The article, released Thursday, said that during Jaishankar’s visit to New York, DSS needed to adapt quickly amid restrictions due to the government shutdown to ensure his timely arrival and “uphold the bureau’s core mission: protection.”
    Given that flights were cancelled nationwide due to the shutdown but diplomatic meetings were imminent, “DSS crafted a bold contingency plan” that involved a seven-hour road journey, one that commenced when agents received Jaishankar at the Lewiston–Queenston Bridge in Niagara in upstate New York and executed a “416-mile interstate motorcade to Manhattan”.
    The article said that to execute the contingency plan, the mission mobilised 27 agents, including three from DP, who drove to Buffalo and New York to join BFRO and NYFO teams for a “rare long-distance” motorcade movement. “From the first mile to the last, the detail showcased hallmark DSS tradecraft — adaptability, resilience, technical proficiency, and disciplined execution,” the article said.
    It outlined that the journey began with BFRO agents coordinating with officials from the Permanent Mission of India to the UN, Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers who protected Jaishankar while he was in Canada, and US Customs and Border Protection personnel at the international bridge between the US and Canada to expedite a smooth transition at the border.
    Agents “meticulously” planned routes through portions of upstate New York, “managed fatigue through structured driver rotations, and ensured seamless continuity of protection while maintaining the foreign minister’s comfort across the seven-hour journey.”
    “Despite freezing temperatures, limited visibility, and shutdown-related constraints, DSS agents executed with calm professionalism and unwavering focus,” it said.It further said during the entire operation, a K9 “alerted on the foreign minister’s armoured vehicle. Agents quickly secured the area, coordinated with local explosive ordinance disposal technicians, and, after a thorough inspection, cleared the vehicle, which served as an example of the team’s poise and adherence to DSS standards under pressure.”

  • FBI says it disrupted a potential New Year’s Eve attack inspired by Islamic State group

    Christian Sturdivant, 18, was charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terror organization after officials say he communicated his attack plans to an undercover FBI employee

    The FBI has foiled several alleged attacks through sting operations in which agents posed as terror supporters, supplying advice and equipment.

    CHARLOTTE, N.C (TIP): Associated Press quoted the FBI as saying on Friday , January 2, 2026, that it had disrupted a plot to attack a North Carolina grocery store and fast-food restaurant on New Year’s Eve, arresting a man who officials said was inspired by the Islamic State group and had pledged loyalty to the extremist militants.

    Christian Sturdivant, 18, was charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terror organization after officials say he communicated his attack plans to an undercover FBI employee who was posing as an encouraging confidant.

    He was arrested by federal agents on Wednesday (December 31, 2025). He remained held following a Friday morning court appearance. Another hearing is set for Jan. 7. The lawyer representing Sturdivant in federal court on Friday didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

    An FBI affidavit filed in the case said Mr. Sturdivant came under investigation last month following information that a social media account, which officials connected to Mr. Sturdivant, had made posts supportive of IS. Those included posts that depicted a ballistic vest and appeared to promote violence, the affidavit said, and the display name for the account referenced the name of the late IS leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

    Mr. Sturdivant began communicating on social media with someone who he thought was supportive of his plans but who was actually an undercover FBI employee, the affidavit said.

    Russ Ferguson, the U.S. Attorney for western North Carolina, declined to name the grocery store and fast-food restaurant that were allegedly targeted, citing the ongoing investigation. But he said both were in Mint Hill, a small bedroom community of Charlotte.

    The affidavit says Sturdivant had been on the FBI’s radar in January 2022, when he was a minor, after officials learned that he had been in contact with an IS member in Europe and had received instructions to dress in all black, knock on people’s doors and commit attacks with a hammer. Mr. Sturdivant did actually set out for a neighbor’s house armed with a hammer and a knife but was restrained by his grandfather, the affidavit says.

    The North Carolina attack would’ve come a year after 14 people were killed in New Orleans by a U.S. citizen and Army veteran who had proclaimed his support for IS on social media.

    Other IS-inspired attacks over the past decade include a 2015 shooting rampage by a husband-and-wife team who killed 14 people in San Bernardino, California, and a 2016 massacre at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, by a gunman who fatally shot 49 people.

    The FBI has foiled several alleged attacks through sting operations in which agents posed as terror supporters, supplying advice and equipment. Critics say the strategy can amount to entrapment of mentally vulnerable people who wouldn’t have the wherewithal to act alone.
    (Source: AP)

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

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

    By Murtaza Ali Khan

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

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

  • After Sikh group lawsuit, California delays revocation of 17,000 truckers’ licenses

    After Sikh group lawsuit, California delays revocation of 17,000 truckers’ licenses

    State postpones action until March as US transportation officials warn of a January 5 deadline, potential $160 million funding loss

    SACAMENTO (TIP): A week after a group of immigrant truckers sued California’s Department of Motor Vehicles, California said Tuesday that it will delay revocation of 17,000 commercial driver’s licenses until March, giving authorities more time to ensure that truckers and bus drivers who legally qualify for the licenses can retain them.

    According to HT, citing an Associated Press report, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the state could lose $160 million in federal funding if it fails to meet a January 5 deadline to revoke the license. He has already withheld $40 million, saying California is not enforcing English proficiency requirements for truck drivers.

    California sent notices invalidating the license after pressure from Duffy to ensure that immigrants who are in the country illegally are not granted commercial licenses. “California does NOT have an ‘extension’ to keep breaking the law and putting Americans at risk on the roads,” Duffy posted on the social platform X.

    “Our number one mission is to ensure that every American gets home safely. We’re backing aggressive enforcement and empowering states to keep unqualified, unvetted drivers off the road with over $118 MILLION in grants. 2026 is the year of safer roads!” he said in another post.

    Concerns about immigrant truck drivers gained attention after a tractor-trailer driver who was not authorized to be in the US made an illegal U-turn and caused an August crash in Florida that killed three people. A fiery California crash that also killed three people in October and involved a Sikh truck driver in the country illegally added to the worries.

    The Sikh Coalition, a national civil rights group, and the San Francisco-based Asian Law Caucus filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of affected California drivers, arguing that immigrant truck drivers were being unfairly targeted.

    Immigrants make up about 20% of all truck drivers, while non-domiciled licenses available to immigrants account for about 5% of all commercial driver’s licenses, or roughly 200,000 drivers, the report said.

    Munmeeth Kaur, legal director of the Sikh Coalition, said the delay “is an important step towards alleviating the immediate threat that these drivers are facing to their lives and livelihoods.”

    The federal government had threatened to withhold millions of dollars in funding from California, Pennsylvania, Minnesota and New York after audits found major problems, including licenses remaining valid long after immigrant truck drivers’ work permits expired.

  • Brown University shooting suspect died from self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials say

    Brown University shooting suspect died from self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials say

    BOSTON (TIP): A man suspected of killing two and wounding nine others at Brown University, and then killing a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor, has been found dead in a New Hampshire storage facility where he had rented a unit, officials said.

    Claudio Neves Valente, 48, a Portuguese national and a former Brown student, was found dead on Thursday, December 18 evening from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Oscar Perez, the Providence police chief, said at a news conference. Perez said as far as investigators know, the suspect acted alone.’

    Leah Foley, the US attorney in Massachusetts, said at a separate news conference in Boston that Neves Valente also killed Nuno FG Loureiro, the MIT physics professor who was shot in his home on Monday, two days after the Brown attack.

    “He took his own life tonight,” Perez said at a press conference, where he identified Valente and described the chain of events that had led law enforcement to the storage facility. Peter Neronha, the attorney general of Rhode Island, said Valente was found dead with a bag, and two firearms, as well as evidence in the car “that matches exactly what we see at the scene here in Providence”.

    Neronha told reporters that a person with information about the suspected shooter played a key role in finding him. After officials publicized a photo of the suspect about 24 hours ago, an individual “came forward to two Providence police officers over on the east side and said he had information that he was that person and that he had information that could help this case”.

    “He blew this case right open,” Neronha said at a press conference. “He blew it open.”

    The person’s information led authorities to a vehicle that helped them find a name, “which led us to the photographs of that individual renting the car, which matched the clothing of our shooter here in Providence, that matched the satchel”, Neronha explained.

    Neronha said the suspect tried to evade law enforcement by changing license plates.

    “This guy was changing plates was one of the reasons,” he said. “He knew what he was doing … we got a main plate and we’ve got a Florida plate on the same car.” The Brown University president, Christina Paxson, said Valente was enrolled at Brown from the fall of 2000 to the spring of 2001. He was admitted to the graduate school to study physics beginning in September 2000. “He has no current affiliation with the university,” she said.

    Physics classes typically require access to special equipment, Paxson said, which was located in the building where the shooting took place. Two people were killed and nine were wounded in the mass shooting on Saturday at Brown.

    The investigation shifted on Thursday when authorities said they were looking into a connection between the Brown mass shooting and an attack two days later near Boston that killed 47-year-old Loureiro.

    Ted Docks, FBI special agent in charge of Boston, told reporters that authorities thought the suspect attended the same university in Lisbon as the MIT professor. Peter Neronha, the attorney general of Rhode Island, said the suspect obtained lawful permanent resident status in September 2017.

    Confirmation of the suspected shooter’s death came hours after dozens of law enforcement agents convened on a storage facility in Salem, New Hampshire. Shortly before 8pm, journalist Eli Sherman reported: “Multiple law enforcement officials carrying weapons and wearing full tactical gear” entered the storage facility.

    The manhunt for the shooter had started afresh on Monday, December 15 morning after the state’s attorney general announced that a person of interest detained on Sunday had been released, a development that Providence mayor Brett Smiley conceded was “likely to cause fresh anxiety for our community”.

    Smiley told CNN that while the release of the original person of interest had been a setback, “that didn’t mean that the other pieces of the investigation were stopped or in any way paused”. The FBI director, Kash Patel, faced criticism on Monday for rushing to social media to celebrate the bureau’s work, only for the person arrested to be freed hours later.

    The two students killed were identified by family as Ella Cook, a sophomore from Alabama, and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, an Uzbek national in his first year at Brown. Cook was vice-president of Brown’s College Republicans of America chapter; Umurzokov dreamed of becoming a neurosurgeon.
    (Source: Agencies / CNN)

  • Canada, U.S. to launch formal talks to review their FTA in mid-January 2026

    Canada, U.S. to launch formal talks to review their FTA in mid-January 2026

    Mark Carney confirmed to Provincial leaders that Dominic LeBlanc will be the country’s point person for U.S.-Canada trade relations

    TORONTO (TIP): Canada and the U.S. will launch formal discussions to the review their free trade agreement in mid-January 2026, the office of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said.

    The Prime Minister confirmed to Provincial leaders that Dominic LeBlanc, the country’s point person for U.S.-Canada trade relations, “will meet with U.S. counterparts in mid-January 2026 to launch formal discussions,” Mr. Carney’s office said in a statement late Thursday (December 18, 2025). The United States-Mexico-Canada trade pact, or USMCA, is up for review in 2026. U.S. President Donald Trump negotiated the deal in his first term and included a clause to possibly renegotiate the deal in 2026. Mr. Carney met with the leaders of Canada’s Provinces on Thursday, December 18, 2025, to give them an update on trade talks with the U.S.

    Canada is one of the most trade-dependent countries in the world, and more than 75% of Canada’s exports go to the country’s southern neighbour. But most exports to the U.S. are currently exempted by USMCA.

    Mr. Trump’s cut off trade talks to reduce tariffs on certain sectors with Mr. Carney in October after the Ontario Provincial Government ran an anti-tariff advertisement in the U.S. That followed a spring of acrimony, since abated, over Mr. Trump’s insistence that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state.

    Mr. Carney said earlier Thursday, December 18, 2025, that Canada and the U.S. were close to an agreement at the time on sectoral tariff relief in multiple areas, including steel and aluminum. Tariffs are taking a toll on certain sectors of Canada’s economy, particularly aluminum, steel, auto and lumber.

    Mr. Carney also said trade irritants flagged this week by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are elements of a “much bigger discussion” about continental trade. Mr. Greer said a coming review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade deal will hinge on resolving U.S. concerns about Canadian policies on dairy products, alcohol and digital services.

    Mr. Carney and the Provincial premiers agreed to meet in person in Ottawa early in 2026. Canada is the top export destination for 36 U.S. states. Nearly $2.7 billion worth of goods and services cross the border each day.

    About 60% of U.S. crude oil imports are from Canada, as are 85% of U.S. electricity imports.

    Canada is also the largest foreign supplier of steel, aluminum and uranium to the U.S. and has 34 critical minerals and metals that the Pentagon is eager for and investing in for national security. Mr. Carney said U.S. access to Canada’s critical Ministers is not a certainty.

    “It’s a potential opportunity for the United States, but it’s not an assured opportunity for the United States. It’s part of a bigger discussion in terms of our trading relationship, because we have other partners around the world, in Europe for example, who are very interested in participating,” Mr. Carney said earlier on Thursday, December 18, 2025.

  • Major Visa Appointment Changes for H-1B and H-4 Applicants: What Travelers and Employers Need to Know

    Major Visa Appointment Changes for H-1B and H-4 Applicants: What Travelers and Employers Need to Know

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Many H-1B and H-4 visa applicants are seeing their U.S. consular stamping interviews unexpectedly rescheduled. Beginning December 8, 2025, consular posts started moving interviews that were set for mid-December and beyond—often into March 2026, and in some cases as far as June 2026, says a VISASERVE note.

    These shifts appear tied to an expanded online presence review, which may reduce daily interview capacity and push appointments further out. Travelers and employers should plan for potential delays, confirm the latest interview date in the portal, and keep copies of the updated appointment confirmation.

    If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.

  • Federal Judge Orders Release of 2019 Jeffrey Epstein Grand Jury Records

    Federal Judge Orders Release of 2019 Jeffrey Epstein Grand Jury Records

    The investigation in 2019 led to Epstein’s arrest before he was found dead in a Manhattan jail cell in August of that year

    NEW YORK (TIP): A federal judge in New York on Wednesday, December 10, ordered the release of grand jury materials of the 2019 federal investigation and case against deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, weeks after the passage of a congressional measure requiring the disclosure of those documents, says an AP report.
    Federal judges in two other cases have already ordered the unsealing of materials related to Ghislaine Maxwell, a former accused Epstein accomplice, and an earlier case against Epstein that was brought against him in Florida in the mid-2000s.

    The 2019 investigation led to sex trafficking charges against Epstein before he was arrested and detained in a New York City jail. In August, 2019, he was found dead in his cell, with the New York City Medical Examiner’s office ruling it a suicide by hanging.

    In his Wednesday order, U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman said that the November passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all records related to Epstein, Maxwell, and other individuals who may have been connected to the cases. “The Court hereby grants the Government’s motion in accordance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and with the unequivocal right of Epstein victims to have their identity and privacy protected,” the judge wrote in a four-page ruling.

    Berman added that he agreed with lawyers of Epstein’s victims who had submitted court documents. The disclosure of the grand jury materials, he wrote, should not “come at the expense of the privacy, safety, and protection of sexual abuse and sex trafficking victims.”

    The judge also cited text from the Epstein transparency measure, signed into law by President Donald Trump in November, regarding the type of personal information and material that should be kept from the public eye. That includes the victims’ medical files and personal information, he said.

    Wednesday’s ruling was issued before a Dec. 19 deadline that was set under the Epstein Act. A judge in Florida earlier this month issued a ruling to unseal and release the 2005 and 2007 grand jury materials related to a sex trafficking case against Epstein that led to him pleading guilty on lesser charges in 2008, while a separate New York judge ruled in favor of unsealing materials pertaining to Maxwell.

    Maxwell was convicted of sex trafficking in 2021 by a federal jury for helping recruit some of Epstein’s underage victims and participating in some of the abuse. She is serving a 20-year prison sentence. Similar requests to the federal judges by the Department of Justice (DOJ) were rejected earlier this year, citing federal rules around grand jury disclosures. However, with the passage of the congressional measure, the judges wrote that the new law overrules DOJ rules.

    A renewed push to unseal the records was made in courts by the DOJ following the passage of the bill, which had received bipartisan support.

    In court filings, the DOJ informed Berman that the only witness to testify before the Epstein grand jury was an FBI agent who, the judge had noted, “had no direct knowledge of the facts of the case and whose testimony was mostly hearsay.”

    The agent testified over two days in 2019, on June 18 and July 2. The rest of the grand jury presentation consisted of a PowerPoint slideshow and a call log. The July 2 session concluded with grand jurors voting to indict Epstein.
    (Source: AP)

  • ICE is using air passenger data for deportation effort

    ICE is using air passenger data for deportation effort

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The Trump administration is providing the names of all air travelers to immigration officials, substantially expanding its use of data sharing to expel people under deportation orders, according to a New York Times report.

    Under the previously undisclosed program, the Transportation Security Administration provides a list multiple times a week to Immigration and Customs Enforcement of travelers who will be coming through airports. ICE can then match the list against its own database of people subject to deportation and send agents to the airport to detain those people.

    It’s unclear how many arrests have been made as a result of the collaboration. But documents obtained by The New York Times show that it led to the arrest of Any Lucía López Belloza, the college student picked up at Boston Logan Airport on Nov. 20 and deported to Honduras two days later. A former ICE official said 75 percent of instances in that official’s region where names were flagged by the program yielded arrests.

    ICE has historically avoided interfering with domestic travel. But the partnership between airport security and the immigration agency, which began quietly in March, is the latest way the Trump administration is increasing cooperation and information sharing between federal agencies in service of the president’s goal of carrying out the largest deportation campaign in U.S. history.

    “The message to those in the country illegally is clear: The only reason you should be flying is to self-deport home,” said Tricia McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security.

    Airline passengers have long been subject to some federal scrutiny. Airlines typically provide passenger information to T.S.A. after a flight is reserved. That information is compared against national security databases, including the Terrorist Screening Dataset, which includes the names of individuals on a watch list of known or suspected terrorists.

    But the T.S.A. previously did not get involved in domestic criminal or immigration matters, said one former agency official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the issue freely. Among the concerns, the former official said, has been that enforcement activities at airports could distract from airport security and contribute to longer passenger wait times.

    “If you have more officers conducting arrests at airports, it puts more strain on the system, delays and complications may annoy and frighten some travelers, and those who are unsure about their status will move away from air travel,” said Claire Trickler-McNulty, a senior ICE official during the Biden administration. “It will continue to reduce the space where people feel safe going about their business.”

    The push to ramp up enforcement is pervasive inside the Department of Homeland Security, which houses both ICE and the T.S.A. Earlier this year, Stephen Miller, a top White House official, floated a goal of 3,000 immigration arrests a day and met with top ICE officials about how to increase deportations. Some former ICE officials said the program would be a huge help to an agency struggling to meet the numbers of deportations sought by the Trump administration.

    “The administration has turned routine travel into a force multiplier for removals, potentially identifying thousands who thought they could evade the law simply by boarding a plane,” said Scott Mechkowski, the former deputy head of the ICE office in New York City. “This isn’t about fear; it’s about restoring order and ensuring every American knows their government enforces its laws without apology.”

    Activists blasted the airport deportation program as one intended to frighten immigrants. “This is another attempt to terrorize and punish communities and will make people terrified to ever leave their homes for fear of being unjustly detained and disappeared out of the country before they have a chance to contest the detention,” said Robyn Barnard, senior director of refugee advocacy at Human Rights First, an immigrant advocacy organization.
    (Edited)

  • Dallas jury awards $44 million to family of man killed in 2021 ice storm crash on I-35

    Dallas jury awards $44 million to family of man killed in 2021 ice storm crash on I-35

    DALLAS (TIP): A Dallas County jury this week awarded $44 million in damages to the family of a man killed when his truck was rear-ended by an 18-wheeler during the 2021 winter ice storm that devastated the entire state, according to a report in The Dallas Morning News. The jury ordered Missouri-based trucking company New Prime Inc. to pay $24.1 million in compensatory damages and $20 million in punitive damages for the Feb. 11, 2021, death of Christopher Ray Vardy, according to a statement provided by the family’s attorney, Frank L. Branson. The verdict came at the end of a two-week trial in the 44th District Court, according to a spokesman for Branson.

    Vardy, 49, of Boyd, was stopped on the southbound side of the TEXpress section of Interstate 35 that morning due to other crashes in front of him, the statement said.

    The jury determined that a semi-truck being operated by a New Prime driver was traveling too fast under the weather conditions when it slammed into the back of Vardy’s truck, the statement said.

    “Evidence presented during the trial showed that trucking operator New Prime Inc.’s driver, Steven Ridder, did not receive adequate winter weather driving training and failed to exercise extreme caution in hazardous weather,” Branson said in the statement. “Trucking companies have the obligation to make sure their big rigs are being operated safely, which means taking extra precautions during extreme weather conditions, given the enormous size and weight of these vehicles.”
    (Source: The Dallas Morning News)

  • International Indian Icon (3iii) Season 9- 2025 Successfully Completed

    International Indian Icon (3iii) Season 9- 2025 Successfully Completed

    CHICAGO, IL (TIP): A delayed report from the  3iii Talent Foundation says it successfully completed  the 9th season of INTERNATIONAL INDIAN ICON (3iii)—its most expansive, diverse, and globally celebrated edition to date. Hosted from November 28th to 30th, 2025, at The Matrix Club in Naperville, Illinois, Season-9 brought together extraordinary talent from across the world, reaffirming the platform’s commitment to elevating Indian arts, culture, and performance on a truly international stage.

    Season 9 marked a historic milestone, recording more than 10,000+ global registrations from over 39 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia. Participants competed across the multi-tiered structure of online video auditions through video upload and online LIVE auditions, conducted internationally. From these extensive audition rounds, 150 semifinalists advanced to the Chicago Episode Production, each of them bringing dedication, passion, and artistic excellence to the global 3iii stage.

    The on-site episode production of 3iii Season-9 2025 unfolded as a vibrant cinematic and cultural spectacle, spanning three days of multi-camera filming, celebrity mentoring, live performances, and iconic red-carpet moments. The event was honored by the presence of Bollywood legend and Grand Master Jatin Pandit, alongside a distinguished panel of judges representing diverse categories—singing, dancing, fashion, acting, instrumental music, and unique talent formats. Haley Bhardwaj, Director of Simantikos Dance Academy (Chicago), served as the judge for the dance category, while Rami Mital, Miss Universe USA & Mrs. Illinois Bharat 2026, and Director of Ark Medical Revenue Management Group, one of the event’s key sponsors, led the Fashion Category as the primary judge. Anchors Sonia Keshwani, Raahul Jatin and Ajai Kumar brought exceptional energy, charisma, and warmth to the stage, adding a dynamic presence to the 3iii Season-9 journey.

    The contestants

    The 3iii platform continues to stand as a uniquely inclusive movement, open to all age groups, genders, cultures, and backgrounds. Participants compete in categories such as Singing, Dancing, Acting, Instruments, Fashion, Comedy, and IGT (I‑Got‑Talent), with no restrictions on artistic expression. Non‑Indian participants can also compete by showcasing an element of Indian culture through language, dance forms, attire, or musical traditions.

    The 3iii Talent Foundation acknowledges the exceptional leadership and guidance of its Board of Directors, whose collective vision and dedication were pivotal in making 3iii Season-9 (2025) a resounding success. The Board comprising Founder & CEO Sharan Walia, and Executive Board of Directors Brij Sharma, Yogi Bharadwaj, Dileep Shrivastava, Swetalina Ahuja, Dr. Hitesh Bhatt, Vinni Walia, Ishita Walia and Palak Walia played a transformative role in shaping the event’s direction, scale, and execution. Each member contributed strategic insight, organizational stewardship, and unwavering commitment to advancing the Foundation’s mission of providing a global platform for talent and cultural expression. Their combined expertise across business, arts, community leadership, media, and technology created the strong foundation upon which Season-9 achieved its remarkable impact and global reach.

    As 3iii continues to expand each year, Founder & CEO Sharan Walia remains unwavering in his vision of building a global cultural bridge—one that elevates Indian arts and talent, giving them the recognition, visibility, and creative freedom they deserve on international stages. Under his leadership, and with the dedicated support of core team members Rahul Kundu, Naresh Shastri, and Damini Datta, the execution of the world’s first global non-profit talent platform reached a defining milestone.

    The Season-9 production stands as a testament to this mission, showcasing an exceptional blend of scale, quality, and worldwide participation—reflecting 3iii’s continued commitment to empowering talent and celebrating cultural excellence.

    The success of 3iii Season-9 (2025) was strengthened by the valued support and contributions of esteemed sponsors and partners, each bringing remarkable credibility and momentum to the event. The Grand Finale was graced by Darshan Dhaliwal, Director of Dhaliwal Enterprises, who attended as the Chief Guest of Honor, adding distinguished presence through his longstanding legacy in business and philanthropic leadership. The Fashion Category received exceptional endorsement from Sunil Bhatia, Director of MyFashion.com, whose commitment to creativity and industry excellence enhanced the platform for emerging fashion talent. Significant support was also extended by Rami Mital, Director of Ark Medical Revenue Management and a prominent contributor to 3iii Season-9, recognized for championing growth and opportunity for global performers. Brij Sharma, owner of Power Volt Group and Power Gen AI LLC, played an influential role as a driving force for innovation and technology, aligning strongly with the event’s forward-looking vision. Additional recognition goes to RJ Anya Ahuja, owner of Anya International, acknowledged for her dynamic encouragement of cultural and community-focused initiatives. Culinary partnership was led by Rajat Sahani, owner of Shimla Peppers, whose authentic flavors enriched the event’s hospitality experience. Premium accommodation for artists, judges, and production crew was facilitated by Sunny Shah, owner of Holiday Inn, as the official Stay Partner for Season-9. Esteemed mentor Pratibha Phadke, owner of A3P Connections, further contributed through her guidance, expertise, and commitment to nurturing the personal and artistic growth of participants. Together, these distinguished partners elevated 3iii Season-9 with unparalleled support, enabling a truly global celebration of culture, creativity, and talent.

    Below are the official results, presented in individual paragraphs as part of the press release.

    SINGING – JUNIOR CATEGORY RESULTS:

    According to the official results document, the Singing Junior category winner is Nitika Pande from the USA, who earned the top title through her exceptional vocal performance and artistic expression. The first runner‑up is Mishka Kacholiya from the USA, followed by two second runner‑ups: Tharani Somanathan from the UK and Rayyan Ariff from the UK. Judges’ Choice recognitions were awarded to Saanvi Chandna (USA), Renia Ganguly (UK), Prasheeta Mohanty (USA), and Sahithi Yalamanchli (Canada).

    SINGING – SENIOR CATEGORY RESULTS:

    In the Singing Senior category, the Season‑9 winner is Razin Syed from the USA, celebrated for his powerful voice and stage presence. The first runner‑up position was secured by Zain Baig (USA), while the second runner‑up was awarded to Luoyi Pan (USA). Judges’ Choice recognitions were presented to Ranjita Roy (USA), Caren Mempin (USA), Arwyn Anish (UK), Soumya Mahapatra (UK), and Shayan Mukherjee (USA).

    SINGING – SUPER SENIOR CATEGORY RESULTS:

    The Super Senior Singing title was won by Raj Kewalramani (USA), whose performance captivated the judges and audience alike. The first runner‑up was awarded to Murali M. Collur (USA), followed by the second runner‑up, Saigeetha Matta (USA). Judges’ Choice recognitions were extended to Bhavvika Merchant (USA), Rekha Mahbubani (USA), Kuldeep Sethi (USA), and Jayanta Mukherjee (USA).

    DANCING – JUNIOR CATEGORY RESULTS:

    The Dancing Junior winner of 3iii Season‑9 is Thejolakshmi Achari (USA), whose choreography and energy earned the top honor. The first runner‑up title went to Little Angels (USA), and the second runner‑up titles were shared by Saanvi Panda (USA) and Jaanvi Venkatesan (USA). Judges’ Choice recognitions were given to Classical Rhythms Dance Academy (USA), Sunshine Reynoldsburg Dance Group (USA), Reet Jain Parakh (USA), and Sataakshi Joshi (USA).

    DANCING – SENIOR & SUPER SENIOR CATEGORY RESULTS:

    In the Senior category, Classical Rhythms Dance Academy (USA) secured the winner’s title for their exceptional stagecraft and precision. The first runner‑up was Dance Den Senior (USA), while the second runner‑up recognition was shared by Ritu Jain (USA) and Abhilasha Chawdhary Saxena (USA). In the Super Senior segment, the winner was Asha Mehta (USA), recognized for her expressive and graceful performance.

    IGT – JUNIOR CATEGORY RESULTS:

    The Junior IGT category winner is Sai Khusheel Krishna Bayya (USA), whose unique talent act stood out among the strong competition. The first runner‑up title was secured by Sabarish Rajagopal (USA), and the second runner‑up was awarded to Avismit Bhattacharya (USA). A Judges’ Choice honor was given to Shrihaan Mukherjee (USA).

    IGT – SENIOR & SUPER SENIOR CATEGORY RESULTS:

    In the Senior category, the winner was Dinesh Sunar (USA), recognized for his unmatched Parkour performance that stunned audiences and judges. In the Super Senior segment, Judges’ Choice recognitions were awarded to Cris M. (USA) and Rekha Mahbubani (USA), acknowledging their creativity and artistic uniqueness.

    The organizers and the distinguished guests (Photographs : Asian Media USA)

    The 3iii Talent Foundation extends heartfelt congratulations to all winners, runner‑ups, and participants whose dedication made Season 9 an unforgettable celebration of global Indian talent. Each performer contributed to the cultural richness and artistic excellence of the 2025 edition, inspiring audiences worldwide.

    Looking ahead, registrations for 3iii Season‑10 2026 will open in March 2026, with State and Country‑level competitions scheduled through November 2026. The Grand Finale location and production details will be announced soon, as the organization continues its mission to expand globally and bring Indian arts to international audiences.

    (Based on a Press release by Sharan Walia)

  • India’s Foreign Secy holds talks with top US diplomat on strengthening US-India Strategic Partnership

    India’s Foreign Secy holds talks with top US diplomat on strengthening US-India Strategic Partnership

    WASHINGTON, D.C. / NEW DELHI (TIP): The India – United States Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), co-chaired by India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and U.S. Under Secretary of State Ms. Allison Hooker were held in New Delhi on December 9, according to a press note issued by the Indian embassy in Washington. The consultations provided an opportunity for a comprehensive review of the India – U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

    The two sides discussed key bilateral issues, including trade and investment, defense cooperation, the TRUST initiative, energy cooperation including civil nuclear collaboration, technology, critical minerals, and trusted supply chains.

    The discussions also covered regional and global developments of mutual interest, with both sides underscoring their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    Both sides also welcomed the steady progress across existing dialogue mechanisms and agreed to give momentum to the implementation of “Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce and Technology (COMPACT) for the 21st Century” to drive transformative cooperation across key pillars of the partnership.

    In a post on X, the US Embassy in India said, “Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri hosted Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker for consultations on strengthening the U.S.-India strategic partnership, including through defense, technology, and security cooperation that delivers concrete benefits for the American people.”

    According to the US embassy, Hooker conveyed the administration’s intent to advance collaboration in sectors such as defense, energy, technology, space and supply chain resilience. It said, “The meeting was an opportunity to translate President Trump and Prime Minister Modi’s vision from their February meeting into concrete progress that enhances US security, jobs, and competitiveness, while supporting India’s long-term goals.”

  • USCIS Increases Screening and Vetting by Shortening Some EAD Validity Periods

    USCIS Increases Screening and Vetting by Shortening Some EAD Validity Periods

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): USCIS announced a Policy Manual update that reduces the maximum validity period for certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). USCIS stated the goal is to require more frequent vetting of individuals applying for authorization to work in the United States.

    Under this update, USCIS stated that the maximum validity period for certain initial and renewal EADs will be reduced from 5 years to 18 months for specific categories, including refugees, asylees, individuals granted withholding of removal, and certain applicants with pending cases (such as pending asylum or adjustment of status). USCIS indicated the change affects EAD applications pending or filed on or after December 5, 2025.

    USCIS also stated that, under H.R. 1 (Public Law 119-21, signed July 4, 2025), certain TPS- and parole-related EAD categories may be limited to one year, or to the end date of the authorized parole period or TPS duration—whichever is shorter—depending on the category and filing date. USCIS indicated these requirements apply to Form I-765 applications pending or filed on or after July 22, 2025.

    What this means for EAD applicants

    For many applicants, this may mean shorter EAD cards and more frequent renewals than in prior years. If you rely on an EAD for ongoing employment, it is important to plan ahead to reduce the risk of a work authorization gap.

    What to do now

    Check your current EAD expiration date and plan early for renewal.

    Keep copies of your prior approvals and filing history organized.

    If you are unsure whether your category is impacted, speak with immigration counsel to confirm how the rule applies to your situation.

    Project FAQ under blog

    Q1. Which EAD categories are included in the 18-month maximum?

    USCIS stated the reduced maximum validity period applies to specific categories, including refugees, asylees, individuals granted withholding of removal, and certain applicants with pending cases (such as pending asylum or adjustment of status), for EAD applications pending or filed on or after Dec. 5, 2025.

    Q2. Is USCIS saying all EADs will be only 18 months now?

    No. USCIS described changes for certain categories. Different validity period limits may apply to certain TPS- and parole-related categories under H.R. 1, depending on the category and filing date.

    Q3. Could this lead to more frequent renewals?

    Yes. Shorter validity periods generally mean some applicants may need to renew their EADs more often.

    USCIS link: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/uscis-increases-screening-vetting-of-aliens-working-in-us

    Contact Information

    If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling 551-276-1864 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.

    (Source; Visaserve)

  • Supreme Court hands Trump victory in fight over Texas congressional map

    Supreme Court hands Trump victory in fight over Texas congressional map

    The Supreme Court cleared the way for a voting map in Texas that could allow Republicans to win up to five additional seats in the House

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The Supreme Court on Thursday, December 4, handed President Donald Trump and Republicans a major political victory by clearing the way for a new Texas congressional map that was drawn in the hope of flipping up to five House seats to the GOP. “The District Court improperly inserted itself into an active primary campaign, causing much confusion and upsetting the delicate federal-state balance in elections,” the court said in an unsigned order that put a lower court decision on hold.

    Justices Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas and Neil M. Gorsuch wrote a separate concurrence.

    The court’s three liberal justices strenuously objected. Justice Elena Kagan, writing for the liberals, wrote, that Thursday’s order “disserves the millions of Texans whom the District Court found were assigned to their new districts based on their race.”

    The order marks the latest development in a high-stakes battle between Republican and Democratic states that are seeking partisan advantage ahead of the 2026 midterms. The states are taking the unusual step of redistricting congressional seats at the halfway point between the U.S. Census Bureau’s nationwide surveys of the population, which occur every 10 years.

    Trump sparked the fight when he pushed Texas Republicans to redraw the state’s congressional boundaries as part of a bid to help the GOP maintain its narrow, five-seat advantage in the U.S. House during the contests next year.

    Candidates have until Dec. 8 to file to run in next year’s races in Texas. The legal fight has upended planning about which districts candidates in both parties plan to compete in.

    A divided panel of federal judges found last month that the new map improperly discriminated against Black and Latino residents. It ordered the state to revert to a map drawn in 2021 that is more favorable to Democrats. Republican officials in Texas quickly asked the Supreme Court to overturn that ruling.

    Alito, who is the high court’s representative responsible for addressing emergency cases from the region, placed a temporary pause on the lower-court order Friday to give the justices more time to weigh Texas’s appeal.

    Texas’s recent congressional map battle began during the summer after the Trump administration’s Justice Department sent a letter to the state threatening to sue. It said a handful of congressional districts that paired groups of Black and Latino voters to form a voting majority were unconstitutional.

  • Amiwala Celebrates Evening of Action With Nearly 100 Volunteers

    Amiwala Celebrates Evening of Action With Nearly 100 Volunteers

    SKOKIE, IL (TIP): Congressional candidate Bushra Amiwala welcomed nearly a hundred volunteers into Bushra for Congress headquarters on Tuesday, December 2 night to celebrate the momentum her campaign has built so far.

    It was the largest volunteer gathering any candidate in the district has held to date. “Look around this room. Every age, race, gender, ethnic background and geographic part of the district is represented,” Amiwala, an elected school board member, told the crowd. “Every single person in this room has a story. Everyone here has a direct tie to our district and to our movement. That is the type of people-powered campaign we are running. It is relationship-driven. It is built on policy and solutions. I cannot do this alone, and I’m so grateful that all of you are with me.”

    Amiwala was joined by Miracle Jenkins, a former IL-09 candidate and lead organizer for Bernie Sanders. Jenkins recently endorsed Amiwala for Congress.

    “I’m happy to endorse Bushra,” Jenkins told the attendees. “Bushra understands, much like Zohran Mamdani, that the core issue of our day is affordability. It’s making sure that young Americans like ourselves are able to buy a home. We’re not here to pursue half measures. We’re here to pass aggressive policies that move America forward.”

    Attendees enjoyed dinner from Pita Inn and cupcakes courtesy of Kinza’s Cakes. The event marked the beginning of major phonebanking, textbanking and canvassing drives to engage voters across the district.

    “Bushra understands the challenges of our generation like no other candidate does,” said Evan Arvizu. “Right now we’re facing the worst housing shortage in our nation’s history. We’re on the precipice of climate catastrophe and millions of people are losing their health insurance. No one is better equipped to take on these issues than Bushra.”

    Everyone present at the event had the opportunity to register for volunteering opportunities with the campaign. To view upcoming activities and get involved, click here.

    “There’s not much to be optimistic about in this news cycle. But I feel optimistic today,” said Zayd Islam, a volunteer. “I can’t remember the last time I felt this hopeful about an election. Bushra has a vision to make life better in our home. She’s reminding us that the authoritarian dystopia of this administration does not have to be our future.”

    As an innovative problem solver Bushra made history as the first Gen Z elected official in the United States.
    Bushra has spent the past decade – since Donald Trump’s first campaign for President, working to build bridges across multiple communities. Service is not just a passion, but something written in everything she does – at just 19, while a freshman at DePaul University, she announced her candidacy for County Wide office, challenging a 16-year incumbent, making history by galvanizing thousands of new voters

    In 2019, Bushra was elected to the Skokie School District 73.5 Board of Education, advancing transparency by livestreaming all public board meetings, accessibility, by offering Halal, Kosher and Vegetarian food options for all students, inclusion by offering access to after school programming and curriculum to students free of charge – so cost is never a barrier. She was re-elected in 2023, running unopposed, and continues to serve her community with dedication. Bushra has put herself through college (twice) with an MBA from Kellogg Northwestern’s School of Management (in District, too!), a B.S in Information Systems and a double minor in Community Service Studies and Public Policy Studies from DePaul University, Bushra serves as a shining example of what is possible with hard work, determination, and a little bit of hope.

    And now she’s running for congress: because the rich are getting richer, the middle class is shrinking, special interest groups are plaguing our elections, there are humanitarian crises worldwide: and our taxpayer dollars are paying for it.
    IL-9 Congressional District deserves someone homegrown, and willing to advocate for all of the people who make up the district, not just a select few.

    For further comment, reach out to comms@bushraforcongress.com.

  • Board of Public Works Approves More than $779 Million for Projects Across Maryland

    Board of Public Works Approves More than $779 Million for Projects Across Maryland

    ANNAPOLIS, Md. (TIP): Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman joined Governor Wes Moore and Treasurer Dereck E. Davis in approving more than 70 initiatives representing a total expenditure of more than $779 million during a Board of Public Works meeting on Wednesday.

    The approvals included awarding a five-year contract, at the request of the State Board of Elections, to Tenex Software Solutions of Tampa, Fla., for implementation of a statewide elections pollbook solution. The new, modernized solution will be utilized by Maryland voters starting in 2028, with options to extend through 2034.

    The pollbook solution is one of several major technology modernization initiatives being undertaken by the Board of Elections, along with a new voting system for the 2028 election year, a voter registration database, and a recently-completed campaign finance reporting system. Comptroller Lierman voted against two requests from the Department of General Services for one-year extensions on two Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loan projects, citing the ample time agencies had to encumber the money. The measure passed 2-1.

    “As folks know, I have concerns about voting for extensions of funds that should have already been used,” Comptroller Lierman said. “We give people a long time and we give our agencies a long time to encumber the money. They did not in these two circumstances.”

    In all, the Board of Public Works approved 74 items, representing a total State expenditure of $779,499,054.57, including:

    Grant agreements for two recipients for two projects located in two counties with a total value of $758,142.
    Four items awarding $2,404,798.55 to prime certified small business primes
    Four items awarding $10,146,979.76 to certified minority business enterprise primes
    Two items awarding $1,395,743.06 to Employment Works Program providers
    12 items awarded with established participation goals for minority business enterprises.
    One item awarded with an established participation goal for veteran-owned small business enterprises.
    The next meeting of the Board of Public Works will be held on December 17, 2025.