Akshay Bhatia, an Indian American, is emerging as a rising star in the world of golf

Akshay Bhatia, an Indian American, is emerging as a rising star in the world of golf

by | Mar 19, 2024 | Editors Choice, Sports

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Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia is making waves on the PGA Tour, with a recent victory in July propelling him into the spotlight. The young golfer’s rise to success has been nothing short of impressive, and his talent and determination have not gone unnoticed.

Bhatia, who hails from the United States, has been making a name for himself in the world of professional golf. His recent win at a tournament in July has solidified his status as a rising star in the sport. With his skill and dedication, Bhatia is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour.

The 20-year-old golfer’s journey to success has been marked by hard work and perseverance. His passion for the game and his unwavering commitment to excellence have set him apart from his peers. Bhatia’s recent victory is a testament to his talent and determination, and it is clear that he has a bright future ahead of him in the world of professional golf.

As an Indian-American, Bhatia’s success is also a source of pride for the Indian community. His achievements on the PGA Tour have inspired and motivated young golfers of Indian descent, showing them that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

Bhatia’s rise to prominence is a testament to his talent and dedication to the sport of golf. His recent victory is just the beginning of what promises to be a successful career on the PGA Tour. As he continues to make his mark in the world of professional golf, Bhatia is sure to inspire and motivate aspiring golfers around the world.

With his recent win and his undeniable talent, Akshay Bhatia is undoubtedly a rising star to watch on the PGA Tour. His success is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it is clear that he has a bright future ahead of him in the world of professional golf.

Cognizant Becomes First Title Sponsor for USA’s Major League Cricket

Cognizant Becomes First Title Sponsor for USA’s Major League Cricket

by | Mar 16, 2024 | Editors Choice, Sports

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Cognizant, a leading IT company, has made history by becoming the first title sponsor for Major League Cricket. The multiyear agreement comes as the league gears up for its second U.S. season, set to kick off on July 4.

The Cognizant Major League Cricket season will follow the International Cricket Council Men’s T20 World Cup, with matches being held in the U.S. at various locations, including a 34,000-seat temporary modular stadium on Long Island, N.Y., designed by Populous; Grand Prairie (Texas) Cricket Stadium; and Broward County (Fla.) Stadium.

This sponsorship adds to Cognizant’s growing portfolio of sports sponsorships, which includes the PGA Tour Cognizant Classic, the PGA Tour-run Presidents Cup, the LPGA Cognizant Founders Cup, Aston Martin F1 team, SailGP, and the English Football Association. The company’s agency of record for these sponsorships is Horizon Sports & Entertainment.

All six teams from the MLC 2023 season — the L.A. Knight Riders, MI New York, S.F. Unicorns, Seattle Orcas, Texas Super Kings, and Washington Freedom — are set to return for the upcoming season.

This move by Cognizant not only marks a significant milestone for Major League Cricket but also highlights the growing popularity and commercial appeal of cricket in the U.S. The partnership is expected to bring increased visibility and support to the league, further solidifying its position in the American sports landscape.

With this sponsorship, Cognizant is not only demonstrating its commitment to the sport but also its dedication to supporting and promoting emerging sports leagues and events. As the first title sponsor for Major League Cricket, Cognizant is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cricket in the U.S.

The announcement of this groundbreaking partnership is a testament to the growing influence of cricket in the American sports market and underscores the potential for further growth and development in the years to come.

US Immigration Unveils Trial Initiative for H-1B Visa Renewals on American Soil

US Immigration Unveils Trial Initiative for H-1B Visa Renewals on American Soil

by | Dec 3, 2023 | Editors Choice, Immigration

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The United States is gearing up to launch a pilot program in December focused on the in-country renewal of specific categories of H-1B visas. This initiative is expected to bring considerable advantages to numerous Indian technology professionals, according to information provided by US officials.

The decision to roll out this program comes on the heels of the White House’s announcement during the state visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June. Julie Stufft, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Services, underscored in an interview with news agency PTI the ongoing high demand for US visas in India. She expressed concerns about prolonged wait times—six, eight, and 12 months—that do not align with their perspective on India.

Commencing in December, the State Department aims to issue 20,000 visas over a three-month period, primarily targeting Indian nationals already residing in the US. This move is poised to significantly benefit India, given its standing as the largest skilled group of workers in the United States.

The program’s primary goal is to eliminate the need for individuals to travel back to India or elsewhere for visa renewal appointments. This, in turn, allows US missions in India to prioritize new applicants. Although the State Department has been actively developing the pilot program for some time, the formal announcement took place during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit. The plan, initially mentioned in the joint statement and later disclosed by PM Modi during his address to the Indian diaspora at the Ronald Reagan Centre, has received positive feedback from the Indian community in the US.

Julie Stufft explained that a federal register notice, serving as the first official communication of the program, will be released shortly. This notice will delineate the necessary steps, eligibility criteria for the first tranche of applications, and provide detailed instructions. It’s crucial to note that the domestic visa renewal program specifically applies to work visas.

“This is an existing regulation that was allowed that we just have not used in about 20 years. These are work visas. It is intended for people who are living long-term in the US but want to renew their visa without going back overseas,” stated Julie Stufft.

Characterizing it as a “huge undertaking,” she expressed enthusiasm about the pilot program, set to commence with 20,000 cases in December, January, and February. The State Department is eager to expand the program to include more categories of workers residing in the United States throughout 2024.

Indian-American community leader Ajay Jain Bhutoria hailed the State Department’s move as “significant.” In his capacity as the commissioner to the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, Bhutoria presented a proposal, accepted and recommended by US President Joe Biden.

“I am happy to see the recommendation I presented on behalf of immigration subcommittees on the Commission for H-1B visa stamping in the USA finally being implemented,” Bhutoria remarked. He highlighted that this relief will ultimately benefit over one million H-1B holders, with a substantial number being Indians.

Indian Student Found Shot Inside a Car in USA

Indian Student Found Shot Inside a Car in USA

by | Nov 24, 2023 | Community, Editors Choice

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The Indian community in the United States is reeling from the tragic death of Aaditya Adlakha, a 26-year-old doctoral student from New Delhi, who was found shot inside a car in Cincinnati. Adlakha passed away on November 11 at UC Medical Center, two days after the incident occurred on the Western Hills Viaduct.

The killing has sparked concerns among Indian students studying in the US, with many questioning their safety and security in the country. Anirudh Chhabre, former president of the Indian Student Association, expressed his worries, stating that such incidents make students reconsider their decision to pursue education in the US.

Adlakha was a fourth-year doctoral student in the molecular and developmental biology program at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Described as much-loved, exceedingly kind, and intelligent, he was known for his transformative research in the field. He was also a secretary for the university’s Health Sciences Graduate Association and was expected to complete his doctorate in 2025.

The circumstances surrounding Adlakha’s death remain unclear, as no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. The incident has once again brought attention to the issue of crime and violence in the US, particularly in relation to the safety of international students.

The tragic loss of Adlakha has left the Indian community in mourning, with many calling for justice and increased measures to ensure the safety of students studying abroad. The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine extended its deepest condolences to Adlakha’s family and friends, highlighting his significant contributions to the academic community.

The Indian American community in the US has been shaken by a series of violent incidents involving Indian students in recent months, including armed robberies and fatal shootings. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety and security of Indian students studying in the US, prompting calls for greater vigilance and protection measures.

As the investigation into Adlakha’s death continues, the Indian community in the US remains hopeful for a resolution and justice for the young student. The tragic loss of Adlakha serves as a sobering reminder of the need for enhanced safety measures and support for international students pursuing their education in the US.

The Hind Himalaya USA extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Aaditya Adlakha during this difficult time. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in seeking justice and ensuring the safety and security of all students, both domestic and international, in the United States.

NRI’s can now vote in Indian elections

NRI’s can now vote in Indian elections

by | Nov 14, 2023 | @HH Bright Zone, Editors Choice

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The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken a significant step towards ensuring the participation of Non-Resident Indian (NRI) voters in the country’s electoral process. In a move that aims to empower overseas voters, the ECI has made it possible for NRIs to exercise their right to vote from abroad.

As part of the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative, the ECI has introduced a process for NRI voters to enroll and cast their votes. The commission has urged NRI voters to fill out Form 6A in order to get enrolled as voters. This form can be accessed through the Voter Helpline App or by visiting voters.eci.gov.in.

This development comes as a significant milestone in the efforts to make the electoral process more inclusive and accessible to all eligible Indian citizens, regardless of their geographical location. By providing NRI voters with the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, the ECI is taking a proactive step towards ensuring that the voices of overseas Indians are heard and represented in the country’s governance.

The move to enable NRI voters to cast their votes is a testament to the ECI’s commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to exercise their right to vote. It also reflects the commission’s recognition of the valuable contribution that NRI voters can make to the country’s electoral process.

The ECI’s decision to facilitate voting for NRI voters is expected to have a significant impact on the upcoming elections, as it opens up the possibility for a larger and more diverse pool of voters to participate in the democratic process. This move is likely to enhance the overall representation and inclusivity of the electoral process, as it allows for a broader range of perspectives and voices to be heard.

In light of this development, the ECI has called upon NRI voters to take advantage of this opportunity and play an active role in shaping the future of the country through their participation in the electoral process. By filling out Form 6A and enrolling as voters, NRI citizens can make a meaningful contribution to the democratic process and help shape the direction of the nation.

The ECI’s initiative to provide voting facilities to NRI voters has been widely welcomed as a positive step towards strengthening the democratic fabric of the country. It is a testament to the commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible citizen, regardless of their location, has the opportunity to participate in the electoral process and have their voices heard.

In conclusion, the ECI’s decision to enable NRI voters to cast their votes is a significant and commendable step towards making the electoral process more inclusive and accessible. By providing overseas Indians with the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, the ECI is taking a proactive step towards ensuring that the voices of NRI voters are represented in the country’s governance. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the upcoming elections and enhance the overall representation and inclusivity of the electoral process.

Diwali Declared As School Holiday in New York City !!

Diwali Declared As School Holiday in New York City !!

by | Nov 12, 2023 | Community, Editors Choice

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In a historic move, the New York City Mayor, Eric Adams, declared Diwali an official public school holiday in June this year. This decision was met with great enthusiasm and appreciation from the Indian and Indian-American community, who have been advocating for this recognition for years. Dilip Chauhan, the Deputy Commissioner at the New York City Mayor’s office, credited the Indian community for their dedicated advocacy leading to this significant achievement.

In a video message shared by news agency ANI, Chauhan expressed his joy over the initiative, stating, “This year Diwali is so significant, for the first time in the history of New York City, Mayor Eric Adams has declared Diwali as a public holiday in the schools of New York City after years of advocacy by the Indian community, and the Indian-American community. They have worked hard for this initiative.”

Chauhan further added that on Diwali, children can now spend time at home with their families, visit religious places, and celebrate with the community. This recognition of Diwali as a school holiday is a significant step towards acknowledging and celebrating the cultural diversity of the city.

The initiative to make Diwali a recognized holiday in the city was led by New York Assembly member Jenifer Rajkumar. After more than two decades of advocacy by the South Asian community, Rajkumar expressed her pride in delivering this victory for the community, New York, and America.

However, students will not get a holiday on Diwali this year, as the school calendar for 2023-2024 has already been decided. The first observance of the Diwali holiday in New York City public schools will take place in 2024.

This decision has been hailed as a significant milestone in recognizing and celebrating the cultural diversity of New York City. It is a testament to the efforts and advocacy of the Indian and Indian-American community, as well as the leadership of New York Assembly member Jenifer Rajkumar.

The recognition of Diwali as a school holiday is a step towards inclusivity and cultural acceptance, allowing students to celebrate their cultural heritage and traditions. It also provides an opportunity for families to come together, visit religious places, and celebrate with the community.

The Indian and Indian-American community have long been advocating for the recognition of Diwali as a school holiday, and this decision marks a historic achievement in their efforts. It is a testament to the cultural diversity and inclusivity of New York City, and a step towards recognizing and celebrating the traditions and customs of its diverse population.

The declaration of Diwali as a school holiday in New York City is a significant milestone in acknowledging and celebrating the cultural diversity of the city. It is a testament to the efforts and advocacy of the Indian and Indian-American community, as well as the leadership of New York Assembly member Jenifer Rajkumar. This decision is a step towards inclusivity and cultural acceptance, allowing students to celebrate their cultural heritage and traditions, and providing an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate with the community.