A bureaucratic visa bottleneck has left thousands of Indian students stranded ahead of the Fall 2025 semester, as U.S. consulates in India slash appointment slots amid new digital vetting rules. Despite bipartisan pressure on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to restore processing, the crisis threatens U.S.–India educational ties, economic contributions, and America's global image as a welcoming academic destination.
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German influencer Younes Zarou was briefly detained in Bengaluru after his social media post drew a massive crowd to Church Street, causing public safety concerns. Police intervened due to the lack of prior permission for the gathering, referencing a past stampede tragedy.
The United States has expressed reservations to India regarding the UN 2-state conference, deeming it counterproductive to ending the Gaza conflict and securing hostage releases. Despite US urging, India is participating, seeking constructive engagement towards a 2-state solution. India balances its ties with Israel and its support for the Palestinian cause, advocating for a negotiated resolution.
In a significant victory for immigrants, a US court has blocked President Trump's attempt to end birthright citizenship, deeming it unconstitutional. The ruling, delivered by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, upholds the 14th Amendment, ensuring that children born in the US to non-citizen parents on short term visas are still granted citizenship.
Shubman Gill's dismissal on Day 1 of the 4th Test against England drew criticism, reminiscent of Karun Nair's past error in the last Test match. Gill's misjudgement against Ben Stokes led to an LBW, resulting in a score of 12. Despite this setback, India concluded the day at 149/3, with Jaiswal and Rahul contributing solid scores.
Heavy rainfall continues to wreak havoc in Himachal Pradesh, triggering a landslide near Pandoh Dam that shut down the Mandi-Kullu section of the Chandigarh-Manali Highway. Hundreds of roads remain blocked, with Mandi district being the worst hit. Rising river levels prompted the opening of Kol Dam floodgates.
A Policybazaar report reveals a surge in NRIs seeking medical treatment in India, driven by significantly lower costs. Health insurance purchases by NRIs have jumped 150% in 2024-25. Treatment costs in India can be 60-90% less than in the US, with heart bypass surgery costing Rs 4.5-8 lakh compared to Rs 60 lakh-1.3 crore in the US.
Triple H joined President Donald Trump at the White House to sign an executive order reinstating the Presidential Fitness Test in schools, a program aimed at promoting youth fitness through basic exercises. He emphasized the importance of health and fitness from a young age, highlighting its role in setting individuals up for success.
Pop star Taylor Swift's relationship with Travis Kelce boosted the Kansas City Chiefs. The team saw a huge increase in fans, especially women. Kelce's jersey sales skyrocketed. TV ratings for Chiefs games broke records. Swift's presence added millions to the team's value. Kelce became a celebrity beyond sports. Their relationship transformed football into a cultural phenomenon.
Former India cricketer and batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah's inclusion significantly boosts India's chances in the crucial fourth Test at Old Trafford, where they aim to level the series against England. Bangar emphasises Bumrah's ability to provide the necessary firepower, especially given the expected bowler-friendly conditions.
Devendra Fadnavis downplayed any political implications of Raj Thackeray's visit to Uddhav Thackeray's residence, Matoshree, for his birthday, emphasising it as a gesture of goodwill. However, the meeting, following their joint opposition to Hindi as a medium of instruction, fuels speculation of a potential MNS-Shiv Sena (UBT) alliance for the upcoming local body elections.