US embassy updates Indian visa rescheduling after H-1B delays

Indian applicants seeking a US visa have been urged to stay alert. Even a small mistake, like showing up on the wrong date, can land you in major trouble.

A young tech professional from Bengaluru, Mohammed Ishaq, was among the 25 people killed in a fire at a nightclub in Goa. He was part of a group of six friends on a bachelor party trip when the fire broke out. Safety concerns at the nightclub are under scrutiny and five people have been arrested. The victims died from suffocation, not burns.

The US economy isn’t in the best place right now, but President Donald Trump says his administration is slowly getting the country back on its feet after the ‘Biden era missteps.’

A fire at a nightclub in Goa caused by electric firecrackers set off during a dance performance by a Kazakh national, Kristina, claimed 25 lives and injured many. Kristina did not have a valid work visa, and the police are investigating the incident. Five people have been arrested so far and one person has been detained.

Akshay Kumar, a Bollywood superstar, has a net worth of Rs 2500 crore and a successful career of over three decades. He owns multiple properties in Goa, Mumbai, Canada, and Mauritius, but his most prized possession is the Rs 80 crore Juhu duplex designed by his wife, Twinkle Khanna. This luxurious home boasts a home theatre, lush garden, and private swimming pool.

Shah Rukh Khan, the 'king Khan' of Bollywood, has become a global icon and a significant part of Indian culture. Recently, he was honored with a tower and a bronze statue in London, representing his hard work and success despite personal hardships. Khan's journey has made him a bigger person, achieving great success in both his personal and professional life.

India's spiritual products market, worth Rs 10,000 crore, is being revolutionized by the rise of e-commerce. Younger consumers are demanding high standards of quality, transparency, and experience. FaithTech platforms are modernizing access to spiritual products and services, providing transparency and education, and improving supply chain and quality control systems.

The United States is moving forward with trade negotiations with India, with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer telling lawmakers that India has made “the best we’ve ever received as a country” in ongoing discussions, IANS reported. The talks focus on expanding American farmers’ access to Indian markets, especially for crops like grain sorghum and soy.

IndiGo, known for its reliability and affordability, is facing a reputation crisis due to flight cancellations and poor management response. The airline's technology and processes, usually strengths, were absent during disruptions, leading to a loss of passenger confidence and reputation equity. To recover, IndiGo must prioritize transparent communication and concrete actions.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu apologises and promises strict action against those responsible for the IndiGo fiasco. He also said that he would definitely "sack" IndiGo CEO if it comes to that. The government has ordered a 10% cut in IndiGo's flight schedule, double of what DGCA had ordered.

The UK may lose as much as £10.8 billion ($14.4 billion) over the next five years as the government’s new rules on legal immigration take effect, Bloomberg reported. This estimate comes from a new Home Office impact assessment, which explains how the changes could affect the country’s economy.

Antonio Tajani, Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, is visiting New Delhi for the second time this year. He will meet with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and participate in official activities in Mumbai. This visit follows recent high-level interactions between the two countries.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella discussed the potential of AI in public welfare and India's tech growth. Microsoft pledged $17.5 billion for India's AI ecosystem, expanding data centers and integrating AI tools into government platforms.

A tragic shooting took place at Kentucky State University on Tuesday, leaving one student dead and another critically injured, AP reported. The incident took place inside Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall, one of the university’s residence halls. A suspect was later taken into custody, according to the Frankfort Police Department.

The US State Department has started postponing H-1B visa interviews in India that were supposed to happen later this month, Bloomberg reported. Several immigration lawyers confirmed the development after reviewing emails sent to applicants, adding that the sudden delays come from newly introduced social media checks for H-1B visa seekers.

PFC and SIDBI have scrapped bond issuances worth Rs 11,500 crore due to rising yields, despite a recent rate cut by the RBI. PFC's planned issuance of Rs 3,500 crore would have had a cut-off yield of 7.17%, higher than expected. SIDBI's fundraising plans of Rs 8,000 crore also faced difficulties, with a cut-off yield of 6.86% instead of the desired 6.75%. Dealers express uncertainty

India's CSR law has led to a steady flow of domestic capital for social development, resulting in a new generation of philanthropists. To bring about systemic change, five fundamentals must be followed: Catalytic Change, Core, Capacity, Collaboration, and Compassion.

EU and India's commerce ministers have concluded two days of intensive discussions, providing strategic guidance for a bilateral Free Trade Agreement. Talks have been ongoing since June 2022, with 11 out of 23 chapters already closed. The EU is pushing for duty cuts on automobiles and medical devices, while India wants duty-free access for labor-intensive goods.

The government is implementing a pilot project to connect the need for subsidised fertilisers with farmers' land size to decrease the subsidy cost. This will help regulate the recipient group and prevent misuse in the black market. States are also being urged to reduce the excessive use of chemical fertilisers and promote a balanced approach.

The US plans to raise tariffs on Indian rice, but exporters are not concerned as the US market is small and replaceable. India's aromatic rice is globally competitive and has a strong consumer base. The new tariffs would not greatly affect Indian exporters, but would make rice pricier for US households.

Former FBI agents sue current FBI chief Kash Patel and Trump administration for wrongful dismissal after kneeling during a racial-justice protest. The incident, seen as a political gesture, involved the death of George Floyd and sparked global protests. Patel also faces criticism for misusing FBI resources. Despite calls for his removal, the White House denies any plans to replace him.

Swiggy has announced a QIP issue to raise Rs 10,000 crore, with a floor price of Rs 390.51, slightly higher than its IPO price. The company may also offer a 5% discount. The domestic quick commerce market is growing, resulting in fierce competition.

India's electric vehicle market showed resilience in November, with total retail sales of 14,850 units, a 17.75% decrease from the previous month but a 61.87% increase from the same period last year. Tata Motors led the electric passenger vehicle segment, followed by JSW MG Motor and Mahindra.

Air pollution is a major problem in India, with 60% of districts exceeding the annual air quality standard. Delhi and other northern cities are the most affected due to geographical factors and winter inversions. A recent study reveals that no major urban area in India has had safe air quality levels in the last 10 years.

The Department of Financial Services has approved AU Small Finance Bank's proposal to increase its foreign investment limit from 49% to 74%. This will allow the bank to maintain a sufficient headroom for foreign investment and transition into a universal bank, in compliance with FDI policies and regulations. The bank plans to expand its presence in Tier 2 and 3 cities.

IATA predicts strong growth for the global airline industry in the next two years, with India and China leading the way in the Asia-Pacific region. The industry is expected to generate a net profit of $41 billion in 2026, with a record passenger load factor of 83.8%.

GOP lawmaker Rep. Ashley Hinson has introduced a bill called the 'Supporting Healthy Pregnancy Act' that would require biological fathers to cover 50% of pregnancy and delivery costs, including health insurance premiums. The bill also aims to provide pregnant women with more resources and options aside from abortion. Hinson, a mom herself, is on a mission to make life easier for families.

The Indian asset management industry has seen a decline in actively-managed small and flexi cap schemes, while the number of index funds launched has increased. However, actively-managed funds have outperformed index funds in terms of returns, with the flexi-cap category showing the best performance.

JioHotstar, the second-largest streaming platform, will invest ₹4,000 crore in the South Indian creative economy. This includes building a creator ecosystem, investing in talent development, and expanding creative infrastructure.

The 10-year G-Sec yields have increased for the second time in a row as foreign institutional investors continue to sell. This is due to global yield changes and the belief that the RBI will soon stop cutting rates. Investors are worried about future rate cuts and potential higher yields. OMOs by the RBI may offer some relief, but the market remains uncertain.

Zomato's District saw a 32% increase in net order value in Q2FY26, showing the success of its third vertical. CEO Rahul Ganjoo prioritizes the entire consumer journey and is investing in peripheral assets for better unit economics. The company has expanded into the UAE market and launched a BNPL feature. With new verticals, District aims to become the go-to option for consumers.

Trump criticizes Europe, calling it "decaying" and accusing leaders of being weak and politically correct. He also expresses concern over Europe's migration policy and its stance on Russia. In a newly-released National Security Strategy, the US outlines an "America First" approach to safeguard its interests. European leaders rebuke Trump's comments and urge respect for their sovereignty.

Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu announced a 10% reduction in IndiGo flights due to disruptions across the country. This follows the DGCA's order for a 5% cut and cited operational resource mismanagement. Air India is expected to benefit from the cancelled slots. The minister also emphasized the airline's commitment to covering all destinations.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra urged public and private sector banks to pass on rate cuts to support sustainable growth. He also emphasized the need for better customer service, addressing digital fraud risks, and simplifying regulations. The meeting was attended by top officials as part of the RBI's engagement with regulated entities, with a 125 basis point rate cut since February 2025.

SEBI's new circular for AIFs has been welcomed by industry experts, as it will enhance operational flexibility and create growth opportunities. However, some experts express concern about the difficulty of obtaining accredited investor status. The presence of over 1,700 registered AIFs reflects a mature investor base interested in advanced strategies.

Despite efforts by the government, corporate sector, and farmers to reduce stubble burning in Delhi's surrounding agricultural fields, the "burnt area" remains the same, causing air pollution and depletion of soil's organic matter.

PM Modi announces India's entry into a "reform express" phase, emphasizing citizen-centric governance and structural changes for economic growth. Kiren Rijiju highlights the impact of reforms on people's lives and plans to introduce reform-oriented Bills in Parliament. Modi's guidelines for MPs revolve around the government's third term focus.

Australia is taking a groundbreaking step to safeguard the mental health of children under 16 by deactivating their social media accounts. The ban, backed by majority of Australians, will hold social media companies accountable for any violations. Other nations like UK, EU, Malaysia, and New Zealand are also considering similar measures.

The Indian cement industry is expected to see a growth of 8-9% in the second half of FY26 due to pent-up demand and improved liquidity. Margins are also predicted to increase by 250-300 basis points thanks to higher realisation, stable costs, GST cut, premiumisation, and volume growth. Despite a GST reduction, cement prices are expected to rise by 3-4%, while costs remain stable

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced a $17.5 billion investment in India's AI future during his meeting with PM Narendra Modi. This will help build infrastructure, skills, and sovereign capabilities, and includes training 10 million people in AI and establishing new facilities. Nadella thanked PM Modi for an "inspiring conversation" and reaffirmed Microsoft's commitment to making India AI-first.

Ageas Federal Life Insurance has revealed a new brand identity to mark its next phase of expansion. CEO Jude Gomes discusses the rebranding, growth strategies, and potential for entering the health insurance market. The company is targeting tier-2 and tier-3 cities and aims to triple its business in the next three years. The Insurance Amendment Bill is expected to benefit the company.

The 'eclipse of the century' will occur on August 2, 2027, lasting for 6 minutes and 23 seconds, making it the second longest in recent history. This rare event will be observed in major cities, accessible to hundreds of thousands of people. It will be visible from parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, plunging cities into mid-day darkness for several minutes.

Two 17-year-old Afghan asylum seekers were sentenced for raping a 15-year-old girl in a UK park. The victim was rescued by a passerby and the attackers pleaded guilty. CCTV footage and the victim's phone video aided the investigation. The case has caused outrage and adds to anti-immigrant sentiments, with another Afghan immigrant suspected in a shooting near the White House.

India's fertilizer imports surged by 69% in April-October 2025, while domestic production only grew by 0.74%. This is due to high demand caused by good rains. Fertilizer stocks reached 10.2 million tonnes by November, with over 150 companies meeting most of India's nutrient needs. To ensure supply security, India is forming strategic partnerships with resource-rich nations.

Veteran actor Prem Chopra was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis and recently underwent a successful TAVI procedure, as shared by son-in-law Sharman Joshi. The minimally invasive treatment helped avoid open-heart surgery and ensured a faster recovery. Here’s what aortic stenosis is, its symptoms, and how TAVI works.

IndiGo CEO Peter Elbers assures stable operations as the airline operates 1,800 flights, connecting all 138 stations. Customers can now easily receive full refunds for cancellations through automated process. Top priority is to safely transport stranded and delayed passengers. Over Rs 750 crore in refunds already given, total amount undisclosed.

DGCA orders IndiGo to reduce flight operations by 5% due to poor pilot roster planning, despite CEO's claim of stability. Airline instructed to submit revised flight plans and faces show cause notices for accountability. Air India expected to receive additional flights as a result. Civil Aviation Minister assures safety and accountability for passengers.

Indian legal AI firms, like CaseMine, are gaining global recognition by crossing OpenAI's 10 billion token usage milestone. The country has over 954 legaltech companies, including 87 funded ventures, and is attracting investments and experimentation in AI models for Indian legal needs.

Zohran Mamdani, the youngest Mayor of New York City, has appointed Mysonne Linen, a rapper-turned-activist with a felony conviction, to his transition team's public safety and criminal justice committees. Linen has a criminal past, serving seven years in jail for armed robberies. He has since turned to activism and co-founded Until Freedom with anti-Israel activist Linda Sarsour.