The Indian high commission in Ottawa confirmed the fatal stabbing of an Indian national in Rockland, near Ottawa. Local police have taken a suspect into custody. The embassy is coordinating with community groups to provide support to the bereaved family, emphasizing their close contact with local authorities.
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In 2023-24, a record number of Indian students utilized the OPT programme to build work experience in the US. Despite the rising MAGA rhetoric and potential policy changes, the demand for skilled professionals in fields like AI and biotechnology ensures continuing interest from Indian graduates.
Sai Teja Nukarapu, a 22-year-old student from Telangana, was fatally shot by two robbers at a Chicago store where he worked part-time. Despite complying with their demands, he was killed. He had moved to the US in June to pursue an MBA. Efforts are underway to repatriate his body to India.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency has appointed six young engineers, aged 19-24, including Akash Bobba, an Indian-origin engineer with experience at Meta and Palantir, to positions with high-level security clearances. This move has raised concerns due to their lack of government experience and the sensitivity of the data they will access.
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.
In September 2024, IRCC capped study permit applications to ease pressure on housing and services, reducing international student arrivals by 40%. For 2025, the cap is set at 437,000, a 10% decrease from 2024. Applicants will need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL), including master’s and doctoral students, to confirm compliance with caps.
The ACLU-NH has filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Homeland Security on behalf of a Chinese doctoral student at Dartmouth College whose F-1 student status was abruptly terminated without explanation. The lawsuit alleges violation of due process rights, as the student met all requirements for maintaining his status.
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.
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.
Following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26, including Florida-based techie Bitan Adhikari, India launched Operation Sindoor. Bitan's widow, Soheni, expressed relief, stating the action brought a sense of justice and peace to her husband's soul. She appreciated the operation's name, symbolizing her loss.
