Indian American Congressman Suhas Subramanyam has launched an enquiry into Fannie Mae’s mass firing of 700 employees, mostly Indian Americans, over alleged misuse of a corporate grant programme. The workers deny wrongdoing. Subramanyam, backed by Congressmen Krishnamoorthi and Thanedar, has demanded answers from Fannie Mae’s leadership, citing concerns about due process, discrimination, and lack of investigation.
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Varun Soni's new travelogue, "India Beyond Metros: Dekho Apna Bharat," invites readers to explore 50 lesser-known Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Launched by the Brunei High Commissioner, the book offers a practical guide to these unexplored destinations, showcasing their unique culture and charm. Soni encourages travelers to discover the heart of India beyond the major metropolises.
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.
Senator Bernie Sanders aligns with MAGA on the H1B visa debate, claiming it exploits foreign workers and undercuts American jobs. Critics push back, highlighting skilled professionals aiding underserved areas and contributing to the U.S. economy. Legal immigration supporters call misconceptions about H1B workers unfair, emphasizing their crucial role in many sectors.
Lord Karan Bilimoria highlights the UK's attractiveness for Indian students, emphasizing the Labour government's support for the two-year post-study work visa. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson's welcoming message and the benefits of a UK education are key factors. The UAE is also emerging as a preferred destination due to strong ties and growing educational infrastructure.
The graduate visa introduced in 2021 has become attractive for Indian students, allowing them to stay in the UK for two to three years post-graduation. The University of Birmingham notes an increase in Indian students, with new courses like sustainability and sports management gaining popularity.
An Indian student, Krish Lal Isserdasani, faced potential deportation after his US student visa was abruptly cancelled. Despite no charges filed after a prior arrest and being close to graduation at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, his student record was terminated. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the deportation, citing lack of due process.
Anand Shah, an Indian-origin councilman from New Jersey, was apprehended along with 39 others for involvement in a large-scale illegal gambling ring. The operation, which included illegal poker games and online sports betting, allegedly amassed over $3 million in illicit profits. Shah faces charges of racketeering, money laundering, and conspiracy, potentially leading to a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
The Presidents’ Alliance, representing over 570 campus leaders, has filed a lawsuit challenging the Department of Homeland Security's mass termination of SEVIS records for international students. The lawsuit argues these terminations lack legal basis and violate due process, impacting students' education, employment, and legal status. The alliance seeks to protect international students' rights and institutions' ability to support them.
H-1B visa denial rates have plummeted, contrasting sharply with the Trump era's restrictive policies. This drop is attributed to policy reversals and court rulings, benefiting both high-skilled foreign workers and US employers, particularly in the tech sector. However, concerns remain about potential renewed restrictions under a future Trump administration.
The Biden administration has finalized new rules modernizing the H-1B visa program, just days before Trump's second inauguration. These changes aim to clarify specialty occupation criteria, offer flexibility to employers and beneficiaries, and enhance program integrity. Key revisions include relaxed degree requirements, deference to prior adjudications, and formalized site visits.