A Sikh charity in New Jersey, 'Let's Share a Meal', recently organised a communal feast, distributing over 10,000 vegetarian meals across five states. This initiative, inspired by Guru Nanak's teachings, involved 700 volunteers and aims to teach values of peace and community. Established efforts have now reached more than 1 million meals distributed nationwide.
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A 26-year-old Indian student, Nagasri Vandana Parimala, pursuing a master's in data science in Memphis, Tennessee, died in a car accident on Friday. Two of her friends traveling with her were seriously injured. Vandana had moved to the US in December 2022 and also worked at the University of Memphis.
Indian-origin neurosurgeon Dr Rajesh Bindal from Houston has been fined over $2 million for fraudulently billing Medicare and FEHBP for surgeries he did not perform. Bindal allegedly taped devices behind patients' ears instead of conducting proper surgeries and, in some cases, allowed unqualified individuals to perform the procedures. Authorities emphasized the importance of accountability in federal healthcare programs.
Seattle police have fired officer Daniel Auderer after his insensitive comments and laughter following the death of Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula. Kandula was struck and killed by a police vehicle driven by officer Kevin Dave. Auderer's remarks, which mocked the tragedy, tarnished the department’s reputation, prompting his dismissal. In honour of Kandula, her university posthumously awarded her a master's degree.
The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) raised concerns over ICE raids and deportations of Indian and Sikh youths in the US. Asylum seekers from the community face challenges and uncertainties. SALDEF urges vigilance, advises on rights, and works with advocacy groups to ensure fair processes. Hate crimes against Sikh Americans are also a growing issue.
An Indian-origin Catholic priest, Fr. Arul Carasala, was shot and killed in Seneca, Kansas. Archbishop Joseph Naumann expressed sadness over this senseless violence, highlighting Carasala’s two-decade-long service. Gary L Hermesch has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. The community is urged to pray for Carasala, his family, his parish, and the perpetrator.
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) has initiated a bone marrow and stem cell registration drive across the US with the National Marrow Donor Program to increase Indian donor registration. AAPI's efforts also support Indian American medical professionals through advocacy, education, and community service, while advocating for legislative reforms to ease residency pathways.
Indian-American Suhas Subramanyam was sworn into the 119th Congress, representing Virginia's 10th District and becoming the first Indian American and South Asian member of Congress on the East Coast. A former advisor to Obama and Virginia state legislator, he has a history of bipartisan legislation and volunteer service in his community.
In a historic event, 51-year-old Keralite priest George Jacob Koovakad became the first priest from India to be directly elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis. The ceremony, held at St. Peter's Basilica, saw Koovakad join five other Indian cardinals. Koovakad, who organizes the Pope's travels, was ordained in 2004 and began his diplomatic career in 2006.
The U.S. continues to be the top destination for Indian students in 2024, with a 21% increase in enrolments, reaching a record 331,602 students. This growth, especially in graduate programmes, is driven by the U.S.'s academic excellence, flexible education options, and valuable work experience opportunities like Optional Practical Training (OPT). Despite challenges like visa uncertainties, Indian students contribute significantly to the U.S. economy, highlighting the mutual benefits of this... Expand
In a significant event for Indian Americans, six leaders were sworn into the US House of Representatives, marking the largest representation of this community in history. US Congressman Ami Bera, who has served since 2013, noted the growth from being the sole Indian American member to now having six representatives, expressing excitement for further increases in the future.