Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has unveiled a controversial proposal to slash 75% of the federal workforce. He claims this move would streamline government operations and boost private sector growth. Critics warn such a drastic reduction could cripple vital services, from transportation safety to border security. The debate has also revived scrutiny of Donald Trump’s Read More…
Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a prominent Hindu-American leader and ex-presidential candidate, has joined former President Donald Trump’s transition team for his 2024 campaign. Alongside Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Gabbard’s inclusion signals a bipartisan strategy aimed at diversifying Trump’s appeal. Known for her independent stances, Gabbard recently endorsed Trump and is assisting in preparing for critical Read More…
The U.S. State Department has released the December 2024 Visa Bulletin, outlining important updates on the Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing Applications for employment-based immigrant visas. For this month, there are few changes, with visa availability for various categories remaining largely stable. Notably, the EB-1 category for India is set at February 1, Read More…
In a surprising and controversial move, President Donald Trump has tapped Representative Matt Gaetz for the role of Attorney General, leaving many Republicans “stunned and disgusted” by what they are calling a “reckless” decision. Party insiders have voiced strong concerns over Gaetz’s suitability for the high-profile role, given his contentious past and outspoken reputation. The Read More…
Canada has made significant changes to its student visa policies, which are expected to impact international applicants, particularly those from India. The most notable change is the removal of fast-track processing for student visa applications, a popular route for many. Alongside this, the Canadian government has increased financial requirements for applicants, now mandating proof of Read More…
Ottawa: Canada has introduced a significant change to its tourist visa policy, discontinuing 10-year multiple-entry visas, a move that may impact frequent travelers to the country. The new guidelines grant immigration officers increased discretion in issuing visas, allowing them to assess each application individually and decide on the appropriate type and duration based on travel Read More…
In an unprecedented decision, Donald Trump has appointed Susie Wiles as his White House Chief of Staff, making her the first woman in U.S. history to hold this influential position. Known for her strategic prowess, Wiles has been instrumental in Trump’s political successes, guiding his campaigns with precision and helping secure his victories. Wiles, daughter Read More…
By our religious Correspondent Kochi: The head of the Syro-Malabar church (SMC) Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil has been appointed by Pope Francis to a ten-member special Vatican committee on Eastern rite Churches. “It is a major recognition to the Syro-Malabar Church”, head-quartered here, the official spokesperson for the SMC , Fr Antony Vadakkekara said. Read More…
By our foreign religious correspondent Jakarta: In a rare act of humility and lowliness, Bishop Paskalis Bruno Syukur of Bogor (Indonesia) declined the honor of being elevated to cardinal in the en suing Consistory (Solemn meeting of Roman Catholic Cardinals convoked and presided over by the pope) on December 07, 2024. This was perhaps the Read More…
By our Foreign religious correspondent Vatican City: The provisional agreement for appointment of bishops in between the Vatican and China has been extended further for its validity of four years from October 22, the Vatican sources said. “In the light of the consensus arrived for an effective application of the Provisional Agreement regarding the Appointment Read More…