<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><Search><pages Count="44"><page Index="1"><![CDATA[VOL. VII | Issue 13 | FRIDAY | JUNE 26 | 2026                                             NY-NJ-CT&PA • IL • CA&TX • US 50C
















                     EYE ON INDIA
                                                                                                                           COVER
                                                        COVER
                                                        COVER                                                              COVER
                                                        STORY                                                              STORY


                                                            uu 4                                                               uu 4








        Congress Seeks to Turn NEET
        Crisis into Youth Mobilisation

        Campaign uu 6

                 BUSINESS & TRADE






                                                                         PM Modi and US President Donald Trump hold a bilateral meeting (ANI)
                                                                       MODI-TRUMP MEETING
                                                       A STRATEGIC RESET?





        India’s AI Ambitions Get Global              The first face-to-face meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President
        Backing as Mistral Seeks                     Donald Trump in more than 16 months reflected renewed political warmth, progress on
                                                     a bilateral trade agreement and growing strategic convergence on West Asia, even as
        Collaboration  uu 34                         tariff disputes and the China-Pakistan equation continue to shape the relationship.







           NA                                                                  STUMP
           NA

           NEWSLINE                                                            VISION
                                                                                uu
            uu 16                                                                 42





                     New York City Hotels Projected                                               VIRAT AND KANE
              to Make Only Half of Anticipated Revenue                                    TWO LEGENDS, TWO PATHS,
                               from World Cup                                                  ONE LAST GOODBYE]]></page><page Index="2"><![CDATA[ROVING EYE                                                               JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye                    2

















                                                                                                           Kota, Rajasthan, INDIA
                                                                                                           Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi
                                                                                                           interacts with students during an
                                                                                                           event "Chhatron Ki Goonj", on
                                                                                                           Wednesday (@INCIndia X/ANI
                                                                                                           Photo)
























                                                                                                           Bandipora,
                                                                                                           Jammu & Kashmir, INDIA
                                                                                                           Jammu and Kashmir Chief
                                                                                                           Minister Omar Abdullah interacts
                                                                                                           with women entrepreneurs during
                                                                                                           his visit to a stall of a self-help
                                                                                                           group on Wednesday (@CM_JnK
                                                                                                           X/ANI Photo)
















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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="4"><![CDATA[COVER STORY                                                              JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye                    4




                                          MODI-TRUMP MEETING

            A STRATEGIC








                                       RESET?











            The first face-to-face meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald
           Trump in more than 16 months reflected renewed political warmth, progress on a bilateral trade
                 agreement and growing strategic convergence on West Asia, even as tariff disputes and

                                 the China-Pakistan equation continue to shape the relationship.



                                                                                                              ments lay an important political
        OUR BUREAU                                                                                            message. Trump has consistently
                                                                                                              portrayed Modi as a trusted partner
        New Delhi
                                                                                                              since  their  joint  appearances  at  the
              he meeting between Prime                                                                        “Howdy Modi” event in Houston in
              Minister Narendra Modi and                                                                      2019 and the “Namaste Trump” pro-
        TUS President Donald Trump                                                                            gramme in Ahmedabad in 2020. By
        on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in                                                                  again emphasising their friendship,
        Evian, France, marked more than the                                                                   Trump signalled continuity in bilater-
        resumption of personal diplomacy.                                                                     al ties despite changes in the global
        It reaffirmed the resilience of the In-                                                               political landscape.
        dia-US strategic partnership at a time                                                                    The positive atmosphere also ex-
        when the international order is being                                                                 tended to trade, an area that has of-
        reshaped  by  conflict  in  West  Asia,                                                               ten generated friction between New
        intensifying competition with China                                                                   Delhi and Washington.
        and persistent trade frictions.                                                                           Trump indicated that negotia-
            Although no major agreements                                                                      tions on the proposed bilateral trade
        were signed, the discussions pro-                                                                     agreement  had  entered  their  final
        duced unmistakably positive political                                                                 stretch. “We’re very close,” he said
        signals. The two leaders projected                                                                    when asked about the agreement.
        personal  warmth,  announced  prog-                                                                   “We had, in particular, some very
        ress towards an interim bilateral                                                                     good conversations with Prime Min-
        trade  agreement  and  underscored                                                                    ister Modi... We’re doing trade deals,
        India’s growing strategic importance                                                                  we’re doing a lot of things.”
        in regional and global affairs.                                                                           Those remarks were reinforced
            The  meeting  was  their  first                                                                   by India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram
        in-person  interaction  in  more  than                                                                Misri, who described the agreement
        16 months, following Modi’s visit                                                                     as being in its “final stages.”
        to Washington in February 2025. It                                                                        “With the United States, we have
        also came amid rising tensions in the                                                                 made significant progress already on
        Gulf, renewed concerns over mari-                                                                     the conclusion of an interim free
        time security in the Strait of Hormuz   Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump hold a bilateral meeting on the   trade bilateral trade agreement. We
        and continuing negotiations over tar-  sidelines of the G7 Summit 2026, in Evian on Wednesday (DPR PMO/ANI Photo)  are in the final stages of concluding
        iffs and market access.                                                                               that agreement,” Misri said.
            Perhaps the most striking fea-                                                                        According  to  him,  both  leaders
        ture of the meeting was Trump’s pub-  time now, and we’ve always had a   In a characteristically colourful   instructed their negotiating teams to
        lic praise for Modi. In remarks that   great relationship,” Trump said.  observation, he added, “He’s the   conclude the agreement “at the ear-
        mixed humour with diplomacy, the      Describing Modi as one of the   most beautiful-looking man; he looks   liest possible.”
        US President repeatedly highlighted   toughest  leaders  he  has  dealt  with,   so nice, he’s like an angel. But actual-  The upcoming visit of US Trade
        the Indian Prime Minister’s negotiat-  Trump remarked, “He’s a very tough   ly, he’s as tough as they come... He’s   Representative Jamieson Greer to
        ing abilities and leadership.     negotiator. He’s one of the tough-  a killer.”                      India is expected to give final shape
            “He’s been my friend for a long   est.”                             Behind the personal compli-          Continued on next page... >>


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="5"><![CDATA[COVER STORY                                                              JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye                    5



        to the framework agreement before
        negotiations begin on a broader bi-
        lateral trade pact.
            Yet despite the optimism, trade
        remains the principal area of unfin-
        ished business. The Trump admin-
        istration had earlier imposed steep
        tariffs on Indian goods, including a
        50 per cent tariff, before reducing the
        reciprocal tariff to 18 per cent follow-
        ing an interim understanding.
            Former US National Security
        Advisor John Bolton argued that
        these tariff disputes continue to
        distract both countries from larger
        strategic priorities. “I personally am
        opposed to Trump’s tariff program.
        I think it’s a big mistake around the
        world. From the US perspective, it’s
        been particularly unfairly applied to
        India, much more so than to China,”
        Bolton said.
            His remarks underline a con-
        tinuing contradiction in India-US re-  US President Donald Trump, along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other G7 world leaders, stand together for a group photo at the G7
        lations. While strategic cooperation
        has expanded rapidly, commercial                                Summit, in Evian on Tuesday (@WhiteHouse X/ANI Photo)
        negotiations have often struggled
        with disagreements over tariffs, mar-  pressing confidence that the security   geopolitical challenge. “What I really   and broader regional security consul-
        ket access and trade regulations.  of commercial crews would receive   hope comes for the first time is a stra-  tations.
            Nevertheless, both governments   priority  under  any  emerging  peace   tegic discussion between Trump and   Although Pakistan  did  not
        appear determined not to allow    arrangement. The discussion  illus-  Modi on how to deal with the Chi-  feature prominently in the public
        those disputes to derail the broader   trated how India is increasingly pre-  nese threat. It always... gets lost in a   statements following the meeting, it
        relationship.                     senting itself as a stakeholder in re-  discussion of trade issues,” he said.  remains an important strategic vari-
            Beyond economics, the Evian   gional stability rather than simply an   He described China’s ambitions   able. The continuing China-Pakistan
        meeting demonstrated India’s grow-  observer.                       across the Indo-Pacific as “one of the   partnership, Beijing’s expanding re-
        ing diplomatic relevance in West      Another important, though less   major issues, if not the major issue of   gional  influence  and  security  con-
        Asia. Asked whether India could   visible, dimension of the meeting   the 21st century.”              cerns along India’s borders ensure
        contribute to addressing the regional   concerns China.                 Bolton also warned against any   that Washington’s engagement with
        crisis,  Trump  replied  unequivocal-  While the official discussions fo-  perception of a US-China “G2”   New Delhi carries implications ex-
        ly.  “Yes,  I  do.  I  think  India  plays  a   cused largely on trade and West Asia,   framework, calling it “a dangerous   tending well beyond bilateral trade.
        big role in everything. As long as he   strategic analysts believe the long-  sidelining of India.”       Taken together, the Modi-Trump
        (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is   term  significance  of  India-US  rela-  Instead, he  advocated  stronger   meeting demonstrated that the In-
        the leader, India is going to play a big   tions lies in balancing China’s grow-  cooperation through the Quad in-  dia-US relationship continues to
        role.”                            ing influence across the Indo-Pacific.   volving India, the United States, Ja-  evolve from a primarily economic
            The comment represents a nota-  Bolton argued that trade disputes   pan and Australia, including intelli-  partnership into a comprehensive
        ble acknowledgement of India’s ex-  should not overshadow the larger   gence sharing, military coordination   strategic alliance. Personal chem-
        panding role beyond South Asia.                                                                       istry between the two leaders has
            For New Delhi, stability in the                                                                   once again created positive political
        Gulf is not merely a geopolitical                                                                     momentum, negotiations on a trade
        concern but an economic necessi-                                                                      agreement are approaching comple-
        ty. India depends heavily on energy                                                                   tion, and both countries increasingly
        imports passing through the Strait of                                                                 recognise India’s importance in en-
        Hormuz, while millions of Indians                                                                     suring stability in West Asia and the
        live and work across the Gulf region.                                                                 wider Indo-Pacific.
        Prime Minister Modi welcomed                                                                              Yet  significant  challenges  re-
        Trump’s diplomatic efforts in the re-                                                                 main. Tariff disputes have not disap-
        gion.                                                                                                 peared,  difficult  trade  negotiations
            “I commend you for your leader-                                                                   continue, and the shared challenge
        ship on the progress in peace efforts                                                                 posed by China’s growing influence
        in West Asia,” he said.                                                                               will require deeper strategic coordi-
            He also stressed that keeping                                                                     nation. The meeting in Evian there-
        the Strait of Hormuz open was vital                                                                   fore represents not the culmination
        for the global economy and drew at-                                                                   of the partnership but another step
        tention to the welfare of Indian mer-                                                                 in an evolving relationship whose
        chant sailors operating in increasing-                                                                importance extends far beyond bilat-
        ly volatile waters.               Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with US President Donald Trump at the G7 Summit (@  eral ties, influencing the balance of
            “I believe the safety of Indian                      narendramodi X/ANI Photo)                    power across Asia and the future ar-
        seafarers is critical,” Modi said, ex-                                                                chitecture of the international order.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="6"><![CDATA[EYE ON INDIA                                                             JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye                    6


         Congress Seeks to Turn NEET Crisis




             into Youth Mobilisation Campaign






         With the NEET paper leak controversy continuing to resonate, the Congress is framing the examination

               crisis as evidence of a broader failure in India’s education system to connect with young voters.



        OUR BUREAU
        New Delhi
              he Congress has stepped up
              its campaign over the National
        TEligibility-cum-Entrance Test
        (NEET),  attempting  to  transform
        student anger over examination irreg-
        ularities into a wider political move-
        ment ahead of key electoral battles.
        By focusing on the financial and emo-
        tional burden borne by students and
        their families, the party is positioning
        itself as the principal political voice of
        India’s youth while seeking to put the
        Centre on the defensive over the coun-
        try’s competitive examination system.
            The latest push came after Lead-
        er of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s
        interaction with  students  in  Kota,
        Rajasthan, one of India’s largest
        coaching hubs. Through his out-                   AICC Meeting with senior Congress leaders of various states at Indira Bhawan in New Delhi (ANI)
        reach programme, titled “Echo of
        Students”, Gandhi argued that the   remarks and expanding the criticism   graphic groups. Young voters and first-  The Congress’ communication
        distress experienced by lakhs of stu-  to include the government’s broader   time voters are expected to play an   strategy also illustrates how education
        dents is not an isolated problem but   economic priorities.         increasingly influential role in upcom-  is emerging as a major political issue
        the consequence of systemic failures.  “Just  one  figure  from  @rahul-  ing elections, making issues related to   alongside employment and inflation.
            In a post on X following the pro-  gandhi’s talk at Kota says it all. Money   education, employment and oppor-  By drawing comparisons between
        gramme, Gandhi highlighted what he   extracted by the system from NEET   tunity central to political messaging.  household expenditure on coaching
        described  as  the  enormous  financial   students and their families (22 lakh   Rahul’s decision to visit Kota   and the Union education budget, the
        burden imposed by the examination   students per year) = 1.32 Lakh Crore.   reflects  that  strategy.  Known  as  In-  party is presenting education not only
        ecosystem.                        India’s entire education budget =   dia’s coaching capital, the city attracts   as a governance challenge but also
            “Just think--the amount of mon-  1.40 Lakh Crore,” she posted on X.  thousands of NEET and engineering   as an economic issue affecting mil-
        ey families across the country spend   She then linked the issue to the   aspirants every year and has become   lions of middle-class and lower-mid-
        just on NEET preparation is equal   Congress’ larger economic narrative.  synonymous with the intense pressures   dle-class households.
        to the entire education budget of the   “I have only one thing to add to   associated with competitive examinations.  Whether this campaign trans-
        Government of India,” he wrote.   it. Loans forfeited by the Government   Equally important is the emo-  lates into electoral gains remains to
            The comparison has become the   of India to its favourite businessmen:   tional dimension of the Congress   be seen. However, by centring its nar-
        centrepiece of the Congress cam-  16 Lakh crores,” she said.        campaign. By repeatedly referring to   rative on students’ aspirations, family
        paign. According to the party, nearly   By combining concerns over ed-  the  sacrifices  made  by  families,  the   expenditure and examination integ-
        22 lakh students appear for the med-  ucation with allegations of economic   party is attempting to connect with   rity, the Congress is attempting to
        ical entrance examination every year,   inequality, the Congress is attempting   parents as well as students.  occupy  political  space  among  young
        generating expenditure of approxi-  to broaden the political appeal of the   The emphasis on “money ex-  voters at a time when concerns over
        mately Rs 1.32 lakh crore by students   NEET issue beyond students prepar-  tracted by the system” seeks to por-  competitive examinations continue to
        and their families on preparation,   ing for medical entrance examina-  tray examination preparation as an   dominate public debate.
        coaching and related costs. The par-  tions. The party’s messaging suggests   increasingly expensive and uncertain   With the NEET re-examination
        ty contrasted that figure with India’s   that the crisis is not merely about a   investment, particularly after the can-  scheduled for June 21, the issue is like-
        national education budget of Rs 1.40   paper leak or examination manage-  cellation of the NEET examination   ly to remain in the national spotlight.
        lakh crore, arguing that the scale of   ment but about what it describes as   due to the paper leak. For families   The Congress appears determined to
        private spending reflects the pressures   misplaced policy priorities.  that  devote  significant  financial  re-  ensure that the conversation extends
        placed on aspiring medical students.  For the Congress, the episode   sources to coaching and preparation,   beyond the conduct of a single exam-
            Congress General Secretary Pri-  provides an  opportunity to engage   repeated disruptions have become a   ination to larger questions about ed-
        yanka  Gandhi  Vadra  amplified  the   directly with one of India’s largest   source of both economic and psycho-  ucational opportunity, accountability
        message by quoting Rahul Gandhi’s   and most politically significant demo-  logical stress.           and the future of India’s youth.


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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="8"><![CDATA[EYE ON INDIA                                                             JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye                    8


                             Opposition Under





              Pressure as BJP Targets





                        Rivals Across States







           From West Bengal to Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, opposition parties are battling allegations of

                             defections, political isolation and challenges to their grassroots support.

        OUR BUREAU                                                                                            proceedings had begun.
                                                                                                                  “The process for taking action
        New Delhi / Kolkata
                                                                                                              has started,” he said. “We will make
           ndia’s opposition parties are                                                                      every effort to get them disqualified.
           confronting mounting political                                                                     If the Speaker of the Lok Sabha
        Ipressure on multiple fronts, with                                                                    works according to the rules, the law,
        recent developments in West Ben-                                                                      and the Supreme Court’s directives,
        gal, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh                                                                    these people will be disqualified.”
        highlighting the challenges they face                                                                     The  episode  reflects  the  con-
        in retaining their organisational                                                                     tinuing fallout from the 2022 split in
        strength,  preventing  defections  and                                                                the Shiv Sena, when Eknath Shinde
        countering the Bharatiya Janata Par-                                                                  broke away with a large group of leg-
        ty’s (BJP) political offensive.                                                                       islators, fundamentally altering Ma-
            Over the past week, three major                                                                   harashtra’s political landscape. Any
        opposition formations -- the Trina-                                                                   fresh defections would further weak-
        mool Congress (TMC), Shiv Sena                                                                        en the opposition’s parliamentary
        (UBT) and Samajwadi Party (SP) --                                                                     presence and reinforce perceptions
        have found themselves responding to                                                                   of political instability within its ranks.
        different but interconnected political                                                                    In Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi
        challenges. While each case is rooted   TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, with party MP Dola Sen and other leaders, joins a protest march   Party has also been forced onto the
        in  state-specific  dynamics,  together     by hawkers in Dharmatala, in Kolkata on Wednesday s(ANI Photo)  defensive following  claims by BJP
        they point to an increasingly aggres-                                                                 leaders that several opposition legis-
        sive  political  environment  in  which                                                               lators are preparing to switch sides.
        opposition parties are being forced  nerjee’s Kolkata residence had been  office. Right now, she is making a last-  Deputy Chief Minister Keshav
        to defend both their leadership and  withdrawn.                     ditch effort to remain in the media   Prasad Maurya and BJP ally Sanjay
        their legislative strength.           “This is how @MamataOfficial,  by joining the hawkers,” Ghosh said.  Nishad  both  suggested  that  oppo-
            In West Bengal, Trinamool Con-  a 3 term CM and 7 term MP is being   In Maharashtra, meanwhile, the   sition MPs were in contact with the
        gress chief and former Chief Min-  humiliated and put at risk by shame-  focus has shifted from street politics   ruling alliance. Nishad estimated that
        ister Mamata Banerjee has sought  less vengeful BJP govt. While Mohan  to legislative arithmetic. Speculation   “no less than two dozen” lawmakers
        to project herself as the defender of  Bhagwat enjoys XYZ +++ security  surrounding “Operation Tiger” has   were considering crossing over.
        ordinary citizens by leading a protest  with 100s of commando cars at our  fuelled  rumours  that  several  Mem-  The Samajwadi Party dismissed
        against the alleged eviction of hawk-  expense,” Moitra posted on X.  bers of Parliament belonging to Shiv   the claims, insisting that recent party
        ers in Kolkata. The march in Dhar-    For the Trinamool Congress, the  Sena (UBT) are in touch with Chief   meetings focused solely on prepa-
        matala was attended by party leaders  twin issues of public mobilisation and  Minister Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena   rations for programmes marking
        and hundreds of demonstrators, with  allegations of political targeting have  faction.                socialist leader Janeshwar Mishra’s
        the TMC accusing authorities of car-  become part of a broader effort to   Although both factions have de-  birth anniversary.
        rying out “illegal, unjust and deeply  portray the party as resisting pressure  nied reports that six Uddhav Thac-  SP MP Sanatan Pandey accused
        inhumane” evictions.              from the Centre ahead of next year’s  keray-led MPs were set to join the   the BJP of attempting to weaken rival
            The party declared that “the  Assembly election.                ruling Shiv Sena during the party’s   parties through political engineering.
        dignity and livelihood of the people   The BJP, however, dismissed Ba-  foundation day celebrations, the con-  “The BJP government is a party
        of Bengal will be defended with un-  nerjee’s protest politics as an attempt  troversy has exposed concerns within   of cruel people. They have nothing
        wavering resolve” and described the  to remain politically relevant. West  the opposition camp.       to do with farmers, youth, the poor,
        BJP  as  “ruthless,”  alleging  that  the  Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh argued   Only three of the Shiv Sena   democracy, or the constitution. They
        party was driven solely by the pursuit  that the former Chief Minister her-  (UBT)’s nine Lok Sabha MPs at-  only want to remain in power by
        of power.                         self was responsible for the present  tended a parliamentary meeting in   splitting parties,” Pandey alleged.
            The protest came against the  situation involving hawkers.      New Delhi, prompting the party lead-  He also rejected suggestions of
        backdrop of another controversy af-   “The condition of Mamata Ba-  ership to issue show-cause notices to   internal dissent, maintaining that
        ter TMC MP Mahua Moitra alleged  nerjee is such that she neither has a  six absentees. Rajya Sabha MP San-  there had been “no discussion” about
        that security personnel posted at Ba-  party, nor her workers, nor her party  jay Raut announced that disciplinary   defections during party meetings.


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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="10"><![CDATA[OPINION                                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 10


        President Hlaing’s Visit to India






                and Strategic Diversification





                                   Policy of Myanmar







         President Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to India is significant given that Myanmar’s civil war since


                                  2021 has affected India’s border security and management





































        OM PRAKASH DAS                     Myanmar occupies a strategic position between South Asia and Southeast Asia, and the development of economic infrastructure gives Beijing
                                                                             significant strategic leverage (IDSA photo)
              he President of Myanmar,
              Min Aung Hlaing, who as-    nectivity projects, and broader secu-  during peace and an inclusive politi-  border security. In other words, Chi-
        Tsumed  office  in  April  2026,   rity  cooperation”.  During  engage-  cal process involving all stakeholders   nese investment in Myanmar offers
        concluded his first foreign visit to In-  ments  with stakeholders in India’s   in Myanmar, arguing that sustained   an important lens for understanding
        dia in early June 2026. Hlaing’s visit   energy sector, the Myanmar Presi-  dialogue rather than disengagement   the long-term strategic competition
        to India began with prayers at the   dent explored cutting-edge net-zero   offers the best prospect for progress.   between China and India.
        Mahabodhi Temple in Gaya, Bihar,   technologies, including green hydro-  Furthermore, President Hlaing, the   China has been one of the few
        on 30 May. He later travelled to New   gen, solar power and carbon capture.   former head of Myanmar’s military   countries to endorse both the re-
        Delhi  for  official  talks  with  Prime   President Hlaing also met President   junta, assured India that Myanmar’s   cent electoral process and Min Aung
        Minister Narendra Modi before pro-  Smt. Droupadi Murmu, during     territory would not be permitted to be   Hlaing’s presidency. This has led
        ceeding to Mumbai, where he met   which the two leaders engaged in   used against India’s security interests.  many observers to draw three con-
        business leaders to explore invest-  productive discussions to strengthen   Myanmar occupies a strategic   clusions. First, the current politi-
        ment opportunities and strengthen   bilateral ties.                 position between South Asia and   cal-military order is likely to remain
        bilateral trade relations.            Min Aung Hlaing’s visit is signif-  Southeast Asia, and the develop-  the dominant force in Myanmar’s
            Discussions with Prime Minister   icant in several respects, particularly   ment of economic infrastructure   political landscape for the foresee-
        Modi focused on trade, connectivity,   because of the ongoing civil war in   gives  Beijing  significant  strategic   able future. Second, the existing sit-
        defence, healthcare, education and   Myanmar since 2021, which has had   leverage. This should be examined in   uation on the ground suggests that
        cooperation in advanced technol-  important implications for India’s   relation to India’s strategic interests,   no opposition group is presently ca-
        ogies  such  as  artificial  intelligence   border security. Myanmar and India   as China’s presence is increasing-  pable of replacing the current order.
        and space exploration. They also re-  share a 1,643 km border. The Min-  ly intertwined with India’s strategic   Third, engagement with the existing
        volved  around  “refugee  flows  from   istry of External Affairs stated that   objectives, including the Act East   political structure is viewed as neces-
        Myanmar to India, cybercrime, con-  New Delhi continued to support en-  Policy, Northeast connectivity and   Continued on next page... >>


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="11"><![CDATA[OPINION                                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 11



        sary to safeguard strategic and eco-                                                                  ern Border Region), Northern Trans-
        nomic interests.                                                                                      port and Trade Corridors  (Man-
                                                                                                              dalay-to-Myitkyina Highway),  and
        In  addition  to managing  do-                                                                        Magway Region (Central Heartland).
                                                                                                                  The post-election political en-
        mestic upheavals, China has                                                                           vironment suggests that the trajec-
        been instrumental in providing                                                                        tory of Myanmar’s civil war may be
                                                                                                              transformed into a lower-intensity
        Myanmar with a diplomatic                                                                             conflict  rather  than  a  comprehen-

        shield. China has helped re-                                                                          sive resolution. Moreover, historical
                                                                                                              patterns of the military’s strategy to-
        duce Myanmar’s diplomatic                                                                             wards armed groups suggest that a
        isolation and mitigate puni-                                                                          status quo phase may occur, and the
                                                                                                              civil war is likely to be partial, local-
        tive international initiatives                                                                        ised, and uneven. In the recent past,

        against it. It has also facili-                                                                       Myanmar has witnessed multi-lay-
                                                                                                              ered and non-linear peace and rec-
        tated Myanmar’s re-entry into        This should be examined in relation to India’s strategic interests, as China’s presence is   onciliation processes among various
        multilateral forums.               increasingly intertwined with India’s strategic objectives, including the Act East Policy, North-  actors, such as the 2015 Nationwide
                                                          east connectivity and border security (File photo)   Ceasefire  Agreement  (NCA).  The
                                                                                                              more likely scenario involves nego-
            This Chinese approach certainly                                                                   tiated arrangements at the regional
                                                                                From India’s point of view,
        has  a  few  long-term  consequences,   the relationship is evident in efforts   Myanmar is not only an important   or sub-national level, and a few ac-
                                          to develop bilateral financial mech-
        including greater reliance on Chi-  anisms  to  reduce  dependence  on   player in its Act East calculus, but a   tors may choose co-existence over
        nese investment, technology, finance   Western financial systems. Coopera-  security concern due to the refugee   integration, consolidating control
        and trade. From a future perspec-  tion has also expanded into advanced   inflows into Mizoram and Manipur,   within  defined  territories.  For  In-
        tive, this state of dependency makes   technology sectors, including remote   cross-border insurgent sanctuaries,   dia, the key is to continue engaging
        it increasingly difficult for Myanmar   sensing projects and space-relat-  narcotics trafficking, weapons smug-  with the government while maintain-
        to balance China against India, Ja-  ed initiatives involving the Russian   gling, and instability generated by   ing  mechanisms  for  access  in  areas
        pan, ASEAN and Western partners.  space agency.[20] There have also   civil war. Media reports suggest that   outside direct state control. India’s
            Since the  2021  military coup,                                                                   connectivity projects meanwhile can
        Myanmar has increasingly relied on   been reports of possible Russian sup-  these issues were part of the Modi–  focus on  phased, context-sensitive
                                                                            Hlaing talks.
                                          port  for Myanmar’s reconnaissance
        Russia as its principal defence part-  satellite ambitions, although neither   India has been managing the   implementation.
        ner,  with  Moscow  playing  a  signifi-  government has officially confirmed   border with Myanmar in a situation   President Min Aung Hlaing’s
        cant role in supporting the military’s   such cooperation.          where the other side lacks a cen-  presidency has provided greater op-
        campaign against resistance forc-     The 2021 military coup was    tral authority to deal with; in other   portunity for constitutional legitima-
        es.  Russia  has  continued  to  engage   a  disruption  for  India—as  it  was   words, the absence of any official au-  cy and diplomatic acceptability. India
        with Myanmar despite numerous     for ASEAN and other geopolitical   thority. As per policy, India does not   has engaged with Myanmar, while
        international sanctions and restric-  players.  India’s  priority  was  stabil-  recognise the EAOs’ authority, also   dealing with an insecure border, civil
        tions imposed by Western countries.   ity along the border. Established   due to deep fragmentation within   war spillover, the post-coup wave of
        Along with China, Russia has helped   mechanisms such as sectoral-level   the EAOs, even among those groups   refugees and drug and arms traffick-
        Myanmar mitigate the effects of in-  meetings were held with the Myan-  that operate along Indian borders.   ing, which is exacerbating communi-
        ternational isolation and sanctions.   mar junta to address issues relating   The geographical positioning of   ty tensions and conflict in Manipur.
        Beyond military assistance, Russia   to insurgent activities against India   EAOs from India’s perspective is   The junta is leaning on China and
        has also provided diplomatic, eco-  from Myanmar’s territory and other   highly sensitive, as it is closely tied to   Russia for the bulk of its support.
        nomic and technological support.  cross-border threats affecting con-  India’s strategic outlook and several   Regardless of the other relationships
            Beyond defence cooperation,                                                                       being established, India is crucial for
        the two countries have developed a   nectivity projects and vital maritime   infrastructure projects, such as the   Myanmar. India can still gain from
                                                                            Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Trans-
                                          trade. The last such meeting was
        broader strategic  convergence over   held in January 2025.         port Project and the India–Myan-  this situation as it has the potential to
        the past six years. Russia’s state-   Economically, the 2024 oper-  mar–Thailand Trilateral Highway.  influence Myanmar and India simply
        owned nuclear corporation, Rosa-  ationalisation  of  the Rupee-Kyat    A large portion of these projects   cannot afford to be absent.
        tom, has partnered with Myanmar   Trade Settlement Mechanism has    falls within areas where EAOs and
        on nuclear energy development and   smoothed commerce, as reflected in   resistance forces maintain a pres-  Dr. Om Prakash Das is a Research Fel-
        plans to establish a low-capacity nu-  trade data, which reached US$ 2.15   ence.  This  hinders  the  completion   low at the Southeast Asia & Oceania
        clear power plant in the country. At   billion, and both sides are now aim-  of these projects, and their relevance   Centre of the Manohar Parrikar Insti-
        the same time, Russia has emerged   ing to increase this to US$ 5 billion by   could be called into question if the   tute for Defence Studies and Analyses
        as Myanmar’s leading oil supplier,   2030. India has also strengthened its   smooth functioning of economic ac-  (MP-IDSA) in New Delhi
        accounting for more than 90 per cent   position as a ‘first responder’, as evi-  tivity through these projects is not   Views expressed are of the author and
        of the country’s oil imports in 2024.   denced by the massive humanitarian   assured. Recent advancements by   do not necessarily reflect the views of
        On the economic front, expanding   response during the 2025 earthquake   the Myanmar military suggest it is   the Manohar Parrikar IDSA or of the
        trade,  financial  cooperation,  invest-  through ‘Operation Brahma’, under-  regaining offensive momentum and   Government of India.
        ment promotion, and potential col-  scoring its intent to remain a stabilis-  has recaptured several strategic ter-
        laboration on infrastructure projects   ing regional power. This is supported   ritories from resistance forces.   The ful version of this article first
        such as the Dawei Special Econom-  by balancing infrastructure develop-  The primary areas and territories   appeared in the Comments section of
        ic Zone have elevated Russia’s role   ment with essential capacity building   recaptured by the military include   the website (www.idsa.in) of Mano-
        beyond that of a purely transactional   to maintain its strategic foothold in   Chin State  (Northwestern Border   har Parrikar Institute for Defense
        partner.                          Southeast Asia.                   Region), Tanintharyi Region (South-  Studies and Analyses, New Delhi, on
            Another important dimension of                                                                              June 15, 2026


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="12"><![CDATA[Op-Ed                                                                    JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 12


               A New GPS for the Immune System:



        HOW SCIENTISTS ARE REDIRECTING



                         T CELLS TO TREAT CANCER




          The message emerging from ASCO 2026 was both hopeful and realistic. Researchers have

              not eliminated all the roadblocks. But they are learning how to navigate around them




                                                                                                              to use these treatments safely.
                                                                                                                  Early studies required intensive
                                                                                                              monitoring  because  patients  could
                                                                                                              develop  inflammatory  side  effects,
                                                                                                              including cytokine release syndrome
                                                                                                              and neurologic complications. Over
                                                                                                              time, physicians learned how to re-
                                                                                                              duce  these  risks  through  gradual
                                                                                                              dose escalation, preventive medica-
                                                                                                              tions,  and  careful monitoring  strat-
                DR NILESH D MEHTA                                                                             egies. These advances are allowing
                                                                                                              more patients to receive treatment
             or years, immunotherapy has                                                                      in outpatient settings rather than re-
             been one of the most exciting                                                                    quiring prolonged hospital stays.
        Fadvances in cancer treatment.
        In some patients, it has produced re-                                                                       The next challenge is
        markable and durable responses. Yet                                                                    determining which patients are
        many cancers have remained frus-                                                                            most likely to benefit.
        tratingly resistant.              Cancer has an extraordinary ability to adapt. Many patients eventually develop resistance, and   Researchers are studying tumour
            Scientists often refer to these             scientists still do not fully understand why (File photo)   markers, immune signatures, tissue
        as “immune-cold” tumours. These                                                                       testing,  circulating tumour  DNA,
        are cancers that somehow manage                                                                       and other biomarkers to better un-
        to evade meaningful immune attack.  happen efficiently. There may be too   aging responses with T-cell engagers   derstand which tumours express the
        The immune system is present. The   few immune cells within the tumour,  targeting proteins such as STEAP1   targets these therapies need. The
        soldiers exist. Yet they never seem   too few recognisable warning signals,  and PSMA, suggesting that cancers   goal is precision medicine in its tru-
        to arrive in sufficient numbers where   or too many suppressive factors that   previously thought to be beyond the   est form: matching the right patient
        they are needed most.             prevent an effective immune response.  reach of immunotherapy may not be   to the right immune strategy at the
            Imagine a city where every road                                 as unreachable as once believed.  right time.
        leading to a dangerous neighbour-   T-cell engagers offer a unique
        hood has been blocked. Patrol cars            strategy.               The potential impact extends         Even with this progress,
        are  available.  Trained  officers  are   Think of it as giving the im-  beyond simply helping immune    important questions remain.
        ready. Yet they never reach the scene   mune system a sophisticated GPS    cells locate cancer.           Cancer has an extraordinary
        because the roads have been closed,  navigation system with a dedicated   Researchers believe these thera-  ability to adapt. Many patients even-
        detoured, or hidden.              traffic controller. Instead of waiting   pies may actually help transform an   tually develop resistance, and scien-
                                          for immune cells to discover cancer   immune-cold tumour into a more   tists still do not fully understand why.
        For decades, many solid tumours   on their own, these drugs physically   immune-active, or “hot,” environ-  Understanding how tumours escape
           behaved in exactly this way.   bring a T cell directly to a cancer cell   ment. Physically drawing T cells into   these therapies may be one of the
            At the 2026 American Society   and force the two to meet. They help   the tumour may populate previously   most important challenges facing
        of  Clinical  Oncology  (ASCO)  An-  bypass some of the biological road-  quiet neighbourhoods with immune   cancer research over the next decade.
        nual Meeting, researchers discussed   blocks that cancer has spent years   activity. In essence, they are not   The message emerging from
        a  new  generation of  immunothera-  constructing.                  merely redirecting traffic. They may  ASCO 2026 was both hopeful and
        py that may help solve this problem.   This approach is generating ex-  be changing the entire landscape of   realistic. Researchers have not elimi-
        These treatments, known as T-cell   citement because it appears capable   the neighbourhood itself.   nated all the roadblocks. But they are
        engagers, are showing encouraging   of working in tumours that were     Several successful therapies   learning how to navigate around them.
        activity in cancers that have histori-  once considered poor candidates for   have helped validate this strategy.   For patients with cancers once
        cally responded poorly to traditional   immunotherapy.              Drugs such as tebentafusp-tebn  in   considered invisible to the immune
        immunotherapy.                        One example is prostate can-  uveal melanoma and tarlatamab in   system,  a  new  route  may  finally  be
            Traditional immunotherapy often   cer. Historically, prostate cancer   small  cell  lung  cancer  have  demon-  opening,  one  guided  by  a  smarter
        relies on the immune system recog-  has been viewed as an immune-cold   strated that targeted immune redi-  immune GPS and powered by the re-
        nising  cancer  and  finding  its  way  to   disease where checkpoint inhibitors   rection can produce meaningful clin-  markable ability of T cells to do what
        the tumour. In many immune-cold   have produced only limited success.  ical  benefit.  Their  success  has  also   they were designed to do: find cancer
        cancers, that process simply does not   Researchers are now seeing encour-  provided valuable lessons about how   and destroy it.


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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="14"><![CDATA[North                       The Indian Eye

                          AMERICANNewsline






         14                                                                                                                  JUNE 26, 2026

         New York City Hotels Projected to Make Only




          Half of Anticipated Revenue from World Cup




           Despite avoiding a crippling hotel strike, international travel barriers, weak bookings, and rising

               costs are turning New York’s anticipated World Cup windfall into a major disappointment



        OUR BUREAU
        New York, NY
             or New  York  City’s  hotel  in-
             dustry, what was expected to
        Fbe a major economic boom
        from the World Cup is looking like a
        big bust. In its latest projections, the
        Hotel Association of New York City
        (HANYC) slashed its forecast for ho-
        tel revenue growth during the tour-
        nament period from roughly $200
        million in February to $100 million as
        the World Cup kicks off.
            The industry has been warning
        for months that World Cup bookings
        were falling short of the goal for what
        should be a once-in-a-generation eco-
        nomic opportunity. Last month, the
        American Hotel & Lodging Associa-
        tion reported that 60% of New York   inated the risk of labor disruptions
        hotel operators were experiencing   that could have further discouraged
        softer-than-expected bookings for   visitors from staying in city hotels
        World Cup, citing geopolitical instabil-  and spending in the city, a scenario
        ity and an international tourism slump.  that came much closer to playing out
            International visitors, who spend,   in Los Angeles, where a possible ho-
        on  average, four times as  much as   tel union strike was just avoided at
        domestic  travelers,  are  facing  grow-  the last minute.
        ing barriers to entry, including trav-  The World Cup disappointment
        el bans, visa delays, immigration   comes as the industry faces major
        crackdowns, and other restrictions.   headwinds from slowed revenue
        Those policies have dampened de-  growth,  persistent  inflation,  rising
        mand from international travelers   operating costs, and the prolonged
        who would otherwise fill hotel rooms   tourism  slowdown.  Together,  they
        and support businesses across the   threaten a cornerstone of New
        city. The war with Iran further com-  York City’s economy that supports
        pounded the problem, triggering an   more than 40,000 hotel workers and
        additional 10% to 15% decline in   400,000 hospitality workers while   kickoff, hotels that were counting on   future major tourism events as well.”
        hotel business.                   generating billions in annual tax rev-  a World Cup boost to offset rising   Founded in 1878, the Ho-
            At the same time, the industry   enue that helps fund essential public   costs and a prolonged slump in inter-  tel Association of New York City
        and city were confronted with anoth-  services.                     national tourism are slated to bring   (HANYC) is the oldest hotel associ-
        er significant World Cup threat from   “We now know that the promised   in just half of what they’d anticipat-  ation in the United States and one of
        a potential hotel union strike, which   World Cup economic boom will be   ed,” said Vijay Dandapani, President   the oldest professional trade associ-
        would have dealt a devastating blow   a bust. The hotel industry has been   and CEO of the Hotel Association   ations in the country. HANYC is an
        to hotels, hotel workers, and the   warning for months that World Cup   of New York City. “The industry suc-  internationally recognized leader in
        broader tourism economy. HANYC    bookings and revenue were falling   cessfully avoided a union strike ahead   New York City’s $11 billion tourism
        successfully averted the strike with   short of expectations, threatening   of the tournament that would have   industry, representing  nearly 300
        a precedent-setting contract agree-  hotels and hotel workers, the larger   been all the more devastating. With-  of the city’s finest hotels with more
        ment with the union just weeks be-  hospitality sector, and critical rev-  out relief, New York risks missing out   than 80,000 rooms and approximate-
        fore the tournament. The deal elim-  enue for the city. Just days before   not only on this opportunity, but on   ly 50,000 employees.


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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="16"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 16



                                          15TH INDIA DAY PARADE USA 2026


            Curtain Raiser Draws A Full House, Kicking Off



           Preparations For A Grand Celebration Of India’s



                                80th Independence Anniversary












































        OUR BUREAU                        stated that the India Day Parade has  Day Parade USA as one of Long Is-  dian Americans. He encouraged ev-
                                          become one of the region’s most sig-  land’s premier multicultural celebra-  eryone to work together to preserve
        Mineola, NY
                                          nificant  celebrations  of  Indian  heri-  tions and their continued support for  cultural traditions, engage younger
              he Curtain Raiser of the 15th  tage, bringing together people from  the Indian American community.  generations, and showcase the beau-
              India Day Parade USA 2026  all backgrounds to honor the values    President Vimal Goyal highlight-  ty and diversity of India.
        Twas held at the Theodore Roo-    of freedom, unity, diversity, and com-  ed the significance of the India Day   President Mr. Vimal Goyal paid
        sevelt Executive & Legislative Build-  munity service. He also recognized  Parade as a celebration that unites  special tribute to Mr. Venus Bhasin,
        ing, 1550 Franklin Avenue, Mineola,  the dedicated leadership of President  people of all backgrounds in the spir-  stating,  “I  would  like  to  recognize
        New York, before a packed audience  Deepak Bansal Ji and President Vi-  it of friendship, inclusion, and service  Mr. Venus Bhasin, who has not re-
        of more than 250 attendees, with ad-  mal Goyal Ji for their tireless efforts  and called upon community organi-  ceived the due appreciation and rec-
        ditional  guests  standing,  reflecting  over the past three years in making  zations, businesses, and families to  ognition he deserves in the past. He
        the tremendous enthusiasm and sup-  the parade bigger, stronger, and  participate wholeheartedly and make  has been a great supporter of India
        port of the Indian American commu-  more impactful each year.       the 15th India Day Parade USA the  Day Parade USA for several years,
        nity.                                 The event was graced by the  biggest and most successful parade in  bringing  numerous sponsors and
            The  event  officially  launched  presence of distinguished public offi-  its history.            helping raise substantial funds for
        preparations for the 15th India Day  cials and dignitaries, including Hon.   Founder  Mr.  Bobby  Kalote  re-  the organization. He is truly a devot-
        Parade USA, which will commemo-   Steven D. Rhoads, New York State  flected  on  the  inspiring  journey  of  ed son of Mother India.” The audi-
        rate the 80th Anniversary of India’s  Senator, 5th Senate District; Hon.  the India Day Parade and expressed  ence responded with a warm round
        Independence and celebrate the rich  Jennifer DeSena, Supervisor, Town  appreciation to all volunteers, spon-  of applause in appreciation of his
        heritage, diversity, and contributions  of North Hempstead; Hon. Jake  sors, and community leaders whose  longstanding service and dedication.
        of the Indian American community.  Blumencranz, Member of the New  dedication and hard work have trans-   President Mr. Deepak Bansal
            The evening commenced with  York State Assembly, 15th Assembly  formed the parade into one of Long  emphasized the importance of recog-
        a welcome address by Mr. Pradeep  District; Hon. Elaine Phillips, Nassau  Island’s premier cultural celebrations.  nizing individuals who have selfless-
        Tandon, General Secretary, India  County Comptroller; and Shri Tse-     President Mr. Deepak Bansal  ly served the community and stated
        Day Parade USA, who thanked the  wang Gyaltson, Consul (Community  thanked the community for its con-  that India Day Parade USA is proud
        distinguished guests, community  Affairs), Consulate General of India,  tinued support and emphasized that  to honor community leaders whose
        leaders, sponsors, media partners,  New York. Their presence under-  the India Day Parade has become a  contributions have strengthened and
        and volunteers for their support and  scored  the  significance  of  the  India  symbol of pride and identity for In-  Continued on next page... >>


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="17"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 17



























        enriched the Indian American com-
        munity.
            Special recognition was also ac-
        corded to  distinguished  community
        leaders including Dr. Tarun Wasil,
        Mr. Shashi Malik, Mr. Dincil George
        of the Queens Parade, and Acharya
        Ji of Arya Samaj for their exemplary
        leadership, community service, and
        continued support of India Day Pa-
        rade USA.
            India Day Parade USA takes
        great pride in recognizing and hon-
        oring these exceptional individuals
        and organizations whose dedication,
        generosity, and commitment to com-
        munity service have inspired others
        and strengthened the bonds of our
        vibrant Indian American community.
            The evening featured inspiring
        performances by talented young art-
        ists Vaishavi Randev and Arshdeep
        Kaur, showcasing the vibrancy of
        Indian culture. The patriotic spirit
        of the evening was elevated by sing-
        er Anil Dua, who rendered stirring
        patriotic songs. Acclaimed singer
        Khuda  Baksh,  a  finalist  of  Indian
        Idol Season 9, further energized the
        audience with his melodious patriot-
        ic  performances  that  had attendees
        singing along and dancing with great
        enthusiasm.
            Guests enjoyed appetizers be-
        fore the program and a delicious
        dinner following the event, providing
        an opportunity for fellowship and
        networking among community lead-
        ers, elected officials, sponsors, media
        representatives, and attendees.
            The Curtain Raiser concluded
        on a high note with patriotic fervor,
        enthusiastic audience participation,
        and a renewed commitment from
        community  members  and  organi-
        zations to make the 15th India Day
        Parade USA, to be held on Sunday,
        August 23, 2026, in Hicksville, New
        York, a grand and memorable cel-
        ebration of India’s Independence
        and the enduring spirit of the Indi-
        an-American community.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="18"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 18



          YO1 Wellness Retreat Brings Together Leading Medical


           Experts, Community Leaders, and Wellness Advocates




        OUR BUREAU

        Monticello, NY
              he Wellness and Healthy Aging
              Retreat organized by the Ra-
        Tjasthan Association of North
        America (RANA), BRUHUD NY
        Seniors, and Jaipur Foot USA at the
        world-class YO1 Longevity & Health
        Resorts witnessed enthusiastic partic-
        ipation from community leaders, phy-
        sicians, professionals, and health-con-
        scious individuals from across the
        United States.
            The retreat featured an inspiring
        keynote address by internationally
        renowned Yoga Guru and President
        of S-VYASA University, Bengaluru,
        Padma Shri Dr. H. R. Nagendra. Dr.
        Nagendra spoke extensively on the
        growing importance of Integrative
        Medicine and the vital role of Yoga
        in preventive healthcare, healthy ag-
        ing, stress management, emotional
        well-being, and overall quality of life.
        Drawing  upon  decades  of  scientific
        research and practical experience,            Dr. H. R. Nagendra, K. K. Mehta, Jugal Kishore Ladda, and Prem Bhandari were among those who participated.
        he explained how the integration of
        modern medicine and yoga can help   President of RANA New York.
        prevent lifestyle-related diseases    The panelists explained complex
        and significantly improve health out-  medical and healthcare topics in sim-
        comes.                            ple and practical terms, making them
            One of the major highlights of   easily understandable and beneficial
        the  program  was an insightful pre-  for all participants. The program
        sentation by world-renowned inter-  concluded with an extensive inter-
        ventional cardiologist Dr. Samin K.  active question-and-answer session,
        Sharma, who shared valuable infor-  during which attendees engaged
        mation on heart health, preventive   directly with the experts and sought
        medicine, and the importance of   guidance on preventive healthcare,
        maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  nutrition, heart health, healthy aging,
            Another key attraction of the   and overall wellness.
        retreat was a panel discussion on     Several  distinguished  members
        healthy aging, disease prevention,  of the Indian-American communi-
        and the importance of regular health   ty attended the retreat, including
        check-ups. The discussion featured   RANA  Founder  Shri  K. K.  Mehta;   Prem Bhandari, Dr. Ravi Murarka (President of PARAM), Ajay Jain, Dr. H. R. Nagendra, Dr. Raj Bansal
        Dr. Raj Bansal, founder of one of  RANA Patron Shri Jugal Kishore
        the largest Accountable Care Orga- Laddha; President of BRUHUD NY  physicians, and professionals.     improve community well-being.
        nizations (ACO) in the United States,  Seniors Ajay Patel; President of AIA   Expressing his satisfaction over   Bhandari expressed special grat-
        and Dr. Rekha Bhandari, Chief Med-  New York Chapter Beena Kothari;  the tremendous success of the retreat,  itude to Harish Goyal, CEO and
        ical  Officer  overseeing  more  than  Jaipur  Foot  USA  Secretary  Rajeev  Prem Bhandari, President of RANA,  Managing Director of YO1 Longev-
        1,500 nursing homes across 42 states.  Bhambhri; RANA Secretary Ravi  Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, and   ity & Health Resorts, and his wife,
        Both experts shared their perspec- Jargarh; Joint Secretary Raj Garg;  Chairman of BRUHUD NY Seniors,  Renu Goyal,  for their exceptional
        tives on preventive healthcare and   Board Members Sharad Agarwal,  stated that such wellness and healthy  hospitality  and  for  hosting  the  re-
        healthy aging.                    Nitin Dhariwal, Atul Parikh, and   aging programs play a vital role in   treat at the world-class YO1 facility.
            The discussion was further en-  Neelam Jambhar; President of Phil-  promoting awareness about preven- On behalf of RANA, BRUHUD NY
        riched by Dr. Anand Kanjolia, Pres-  adelphia Rajasthan Mandal Dr. Ravi   tive healthcare, yoga, nutrition, and   Seniors, and Jaipur Foot USA, he
        ident of RAJMAI, one of the largest  Murarka; Program Director at Inter- healthy living. He emphasized that  thanked them for making all nec-
        organizations of Rajasthani physi-  faith Medical Center Dr. Kalpana  RANA, BRUHUD NY Seniors, and    essary arrangements and creating a
        cians in the United States; Dr. Vinod   Panigrahi; former President of AIA  Jaipur Foot USA will continue orga- memorable and enriching experience
        Sancheti,  former President  of  RAJ-  New York Chapter Harish Thakkar;  nizing similar initiatives in the future   for all participants. He noted that the
        MAI; and Dr. Sharad Kothari, Vice   and many other community leaders,  to encourage healthier lifestyles and   Continued on next page... >>


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="19"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 19




























         Dr. Raj Bansal, Dr. Rekha Bhandari, Dr. Manj Nath, Dr. Vinod Seventi, Dr. Anand Kankolia, and
                            Dr. Sharad Kothari also participated.


























                  Shri Prem Bhandari ji, President of RANA, Addressing the Audience

        outstanding facilities, warm hospital-
        ity, and flawless organization played
        a significant role in the success of the
        wellness retreat.
            Bhandari also informed attend-
        ees that Padma Shri Dr. H. R. Na-
        gendra and S-VYASA Vice Chan-
        cellor Dr. N. K. Manjunath would
        be traveling to Dallas for subsequent
        programs  before returning  to New
        York. Dr. Nagendra will participate
        as Chief Guest at the International
        Day of Yoga celebrations at Times
        Square, New York, on June 21, 2026.
        The event is being organized by the
        Consulate General of India, New
        York.
            He  further  announced  that  on
        June  22, 2026,  Dr. Nagendra and
        Dr. Manjunath will conduct a special
        Meditation and Wellness Session at   Dr. Samin Sharma, Ajay Patel, and Devika Patel
        the Consulate General of India, New
        York. The program is being organized   part of a broader series of yoga, well-
        by the Consulate General of India in   ness, and healthy lifestyle programs
        collaboration with the Rajasthan As-  being organized in New York around
        sociation of North America (RANA),  the International Day of Yoga under
        with support from BRUHUD NY       the leadership of RANA New York,
        Seniors and Jaipur Foot USA.      BRUHUD NY Seniors, and Jaipur
            The retreat forms an important   Foot USA.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="20"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 20


                                 Mayor Mamdani Appoints




         Siddhartha Sanchez as Executive Director




                          of Mayor’s Office of Food Policy





        NEERAJ DHAR                                                                                           and more than 100 acres of public
                                                                                                              land while advancing environmental
        NEW YORK, NY
                                                                                                              restoration, public access and com-
                ayor Zohran Kwame Mam-                                                                        munity engagement. A cornerstone
                dani has announced the                                                                        of that work was the community-led
        Mappointment of Siddhar-                                                                              Bronx River Foodway – the first ed-
        tha Sanchez as the executive director                                                                 ible food forest in a New York City,
        of  the  Mayor’s  Office  of  Food  Pol-                                                              which demonstrates how public land
        icy (MOFP). Sanchez brings more                                                                       can be used to strengthen food sover-
        than two decades of experience in                                                                     eignty and community well-being.
        nonprofit  leadership,  government                                                                        Prior to that role, Sanchez served
        philanthropy and community-based                                                                      as Interim Executive Director of the
        food systems work to advance the ad-                                                                  Bronx Cooperative Development
        ministration’s commitment to make                                                                     Initiative, where he advanced efforts
        healthy, affordable food accessible to                                                                to leverage institutional procurement
        every New Yorker.                                                                                     as a tool for community wealth-build-
            “New Yorkers are struggling  to                                                                   ing and equitable food systems.
        put healthy food on the table while                                                                       As co-founder of KPS Strategies,
        grocery prices continue to rise. Build-  rector, Mayor’s Office of Food Poli-  that access to fresh, affordable, cultur-  a public interest consulting firm, San-
        ing a city that people can afford means   cy. “Food security is inseparable from   ally relevant food is directly connected   chez  advised  government  agencies,
        building a food system that works for   racial and economic justice, and for   to health, equity, and opportunity. We   mission-driven businesses, philan-
        everyone,”  said  Mayor  Mamdani.   too many New Yorkers — especially   look forward to seeing how Sanchez   thropic organizations and nonprof-
        “Siddhartha Sanchez has spent his ca-  in  low-income  communities  of  col-  continues to advance bold, communi-  its on food systems strategy, stake-
        reer fighting for food justice, strength-  or — access to healthy, affordable   ty-centered solutions that strengthen   holder  engagement  and cross-sector
        ening community-led solutions and   food remains out of reach. I am com-  food systems across New York City.”   collaboration.  Earlier in his career,
        expanding access to healthy food.   mitted to the Mamdani Administra-     Siddhartha Sanchez is a life-  he served as Senior Advisor to U.S.
        Food access is an economic justice is-  tion’s vision of a city where every resi-  long advocate for food justice whose   Representative José Serrano, helping
        sue and I am proud to welcome him to   dent can thrive, and I look forward to   work centers racial,  environmen-  secure federal funding  for food ac-
        this administration, as we work to en-  building on the tremendous founda-  tal and economic justice for more than   cess and infrastructure projects, and
        sure that every New Yorker has access   tion MOFP has laid. Because of their   20 years. He has dedicated his career   managed a philanthropic portfolio
        to food as a basic human right.”      work, we understand these challenges   to serving low-income communities of   supporting organizations focused on
            “Food insecurity is among the   more clearly than ever before. I’m ea-  color across New York City, develop-  food access, affordable  housing  and
        most pressing issues facing our city,   ger to work alongside our most im-  ing deep expertise at the intersection   community development.
        and making high-quality, nutritious   pacted communities to continue turn-  of  food  systems,  economic  develop-  Born and raised in Washington
        food affordable and accessible to New   ing MOFP’s legacy into real solutions.   ment,  climate  justice  and  communi-  Heights, Sanchez is a lifelong vegan,
        Yorkers is a top priority of this ad-  I’m excited to get started.”  ty-driven policy.                family  chef  and avid gardener. His
        ministration,” said Deputy Mayor for   The Mayor’s Office of Food Pol-  Most recently, Sanchez served as   parents migrated from the Dominican
        Health and Human Services Dr. Hel-  icy works across City government to   Executive Director of the Bronx Riv-  Republic. He holds a  bachelor’s de-
        en Arteaga. “It is important to have   increase food security, expand access   er Alliance, where he oversaw stew-  gree in International Relations from
        dedicated, experienced partners in   to healthy food and build a more eq-  ardship of a 23-mile urban watershed   Brown University.
        government, and Siddhartha Sanchez,   uitable,  sustainable  and resilient
        who has dedicated more than two de-  food system. As Executive Director
        cades to serving low-income commu-  of MOFP, Sanchez will also serve as
        nities of color in New York City, is just   a member of the Mayor’s Grocery
        the kind of leader we need to further   Store Task Force.
        our food policy agenda. I am thrilled   “Red Hook Initiative (RHI) is
        to announce his appointment as Exec-  proud to celebrate Siddhartha San-
        utive Director for MOFP, and I look   chez’s appointment as Executive Di-
        forward to working alongside him to   rector of Food Policy,” said Michael
        help struggling families put healthy,   Partis, Executive Director of Red
        affordable food back on their tables.”  Hook Initiative (RHI). “Their lead-
            “I am deeply grateful for the op-  ership, deep commitment to food
        portunity to serve the people of New   justice,  and  understanding  of  how
        York City — the city I grew up in and   policy impacts communities like Red
        have dedicated my career to,”  said   Hook make this a powerful and time-
        Siddhartha Sanchez, Executive Di-  ly choice. At RHI, we see every day


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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="22"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 22


         Chicagoland Lights Up with the Largest




              International Yoga Day Celebration”






        OUR BUREAU
        Chicago, IL

               n a sun-kissed Sunday morn-
               ing, June 14, 2026, the Naper-
        Oville Yard Sports Complex in
        Illinois transformed into a vibrant tap-
        estry of mindfulness, movement, and
        melody. Thousands gathered for what
        became Chicagoland’s largest-ever
        International Yoga Day celebration,
        a heartfelt tribute to the ancient prac-                                                              in spreading the timeless wisdom and
        tice that continues to  heal  bodies,                                                                 transformative practices of yoga and
        calm minds, and bridge communities                                                                    meditation  to  promote  peace,  well-
        across the globe. Organized by Mind-                                                                  ness, and holistic living. In recognition
        ful Meditation Yoga under the vision-                                                                 of her extraordinary contributions to
        ary leadership of Anu Malhotra, the                                                                   the community, she was honored with
        event was more than a gathering it was                                                                multiple prestigious awards, which
        a living, breathing expression of unity,                                                              were presented by AMEC leadership.
        wellness, and collective awakening.                                                                       A magical interlude followed as
            From the moment seating began   nath Ghosh (who arrived later), May-  service, she has inspired thousands   the “Angel Moves” performance un-
        at 9:30 AM, an electric yet serene an-  or of Naperville Scott Wehrli and First   through her unwavering commitment   folded. Exceptional vocalist Anil Jha,
        ticipation filled the air. Attendees set-  Lady Linda Wehrli, and Councilwom-  to yoga as a path to holistic living. Her   accompanied by Navneet Malhotra
        tled onto mats and chairs, exchanging   an Supna Jain. Gratitude poured out   address energized the crowd, remind-  and Prashant Kurdukar, filled the air
        warm smiles as volunteers assured   for valued partners including GSA   ing everyone why they had come to-  with divine invocation while the Inter-
        everyone felt welcomed. By 9:45   Global Eye  Magazine  &  the Amer-  gether. Dr. Vijay Prabhakar, founder   national Day of Yoga Officers Lead-
        AM, the pre-celebration ignited with   ican  Multi  Ethnic  Commission,  FIA   of the American Multiethnic Com-  ership Team joined the stage, creating
        the soul-stirring Yoga Geet “Sang   Chicago, United Punjabis of Amer-  mission and Chairman of Global Eye   a visual symphony of peace, love, joy,
        sang  chalo,”  performed  by  a  talent-  ica,Dr Nitin Malhotra & Dr Neil   Magazine USA, followed with inspir-  and collective wellness.
        ed ensemble led by Vipul Srivastava,  Malhotra of  Expert Pain Physicians   ing words that reinforced the event’s   Dignitaries took center stage next.
        Bhakti Yoga program director. Sing-  Group, Dr Paula Malhitra of SKN   theme of unity across cultures.  Mayor Scott Wehrli and First Lady
        ers including Bharat  Malhotra, San-  Institute, Tanishq USA, Dr. Sailesh &   A deeply moving highlight of the   Linda Wehrli shared warm reflections,
        jiv Saraswat, Mamta Joshi, Shivam   Mayuri  Zavery, Dr.  Rishi  Malhotra,  celebration was the special recogni-  joined by Councilwoman Supna Jain.
        Vishwanathan, Manjoo  Srivastava,  Rajat Sahani of Shimla Peppers, and   tion bestowed upon Anu Malhotra,  The atmosphere reached a pinnacle
        Reeta Hoskote, Anu Saraswat, Neel   many  community  organizations  like   Founder and President of Mindful   during the Seva Ratna Award presen-
        Sukhadia,  and Jigna  Pathak, accom-  Sewa International, Arya Samaj of   Meditation Yoga, by Dr. Vijay Pra-  tation. Rajat Sahani, owner of Shimla
        panied by Prashant Kurdukar on gui-  Chicagoland, A3N Media, Indian Di-  bhakar, Chairman of GSA Global Eye   Peppers, was honored for his gener-
        tar, Navneet Malhotra on keyboard,  aspora Connect, and Hindu Swayam   Magazine USA & founder of AMEC..  ous contribution of complimentary
        and sound engineer Saif Ali, created   Sevak Sangh.                 In his inspiring address, Dr. Prabha-  lunch for all participants. Dignitar-
        ripples of vibrant energy that seemed   Anu  Malhotra,  Founder  and   kar spoke glowingly of Anu Malho-  ies presented the trophy to him and
        to dance across the field and beyond.  President of Mindful Meditation   tra’s unwavering dedication to self-  Meenakshi Sahani in recognition of
            Dr. Radhika Chimata, the grace- Yoga, received a thunderous welcome.  less service, acknowledging her more   their outstanding service.
        ful Master of Ceremonies, set a warm   With  over  three  decades  of  selfless   than three decades of tireless efforts   The sacred lamp lighting ceremo-
        and inclusive tone. Her welcome ad-                                                                   ny followed, symbolizing the awak-
        dress painted a vivid picture of grat-                                                                ening of inner light and higher con-
        itude for the sea of participants join-                                                               sciousness. Partners  and  dignitaries,
        ing millions worldwide in this global                                                                 including representatives from FIA
        movement toward peace and well-be-                                                                    Chicago, United Punjabis of America,
        ing. She highlighted Mindful Medita-                                                                  Expert Pain Physicians Group, Tan-
        tion Yoga’s long-standing dedication                                                                  ishq USA, and others, stepped for-
        to  self-care,  inner  growth,  and  the                                                              ward to light the lamps together. As
        profound  truth that individual  trans-                                                               flames  flickered  to  life,  the  musical
        formation strengthens our intercon-                                                                   team performed the Yoga National
        nectedness with family, community,                                                                    Anthem, creating a profoundly mov-
        and society.                                                                                          ing moment. Dr. Radhika Chimata
            The  program  flowed  seamlessly                                                                  and Nilabh ensured smooth coordina-
        into  heartfelt  acknowledgments  of                                                                  tion, while partners received heartfelt
        dignitaries and partners. Special wel-                                                                thanks for their support.
        comes went to Consul General Som-                                                                        -- Asian Media USA


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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="24"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 24


                 GOPIO-CT Marks 20th Anniversary,




                          Honors Distinguished Leaders





        OUR BUREAU
        Darien, CT
              he Connecticut chapter of the
              Global Organization of People
        Tof Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT)
        celebrated its 20th Anniversary with a
        grand Annual Awards Banquet at the
        Water’s Edge Banquet Hall, Darien,
        CT on June 13, 2026, recognizing five
        prominent Indian American leaders for
        their civic and professional excellence.   CT Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson presenting award plaque to   DCG Vishal Harsh presenting the award to CT State Senator Sujata
            The milestone event brought to-
        gether a bipartisan group of state and           veteran journalist Ajay Ghosh                          Gadkar-Wilcox
        local lawmakers, community leaders,
        and professionals, reflecting the grow- ways, its success became a model for
        ing political, economic, and cultural  GOPIO International in shaping the
        influence of the South Asian diaspora   structure and activities of local chap-
        in Connecticut and across the United   ters worldwide.
        States.  The  evening  also  highlighted   While reflecting on the origins of
        two decades of GOPIO-CT’s commit- GOPIO International, Dr. Abraham
        ment to advocacy, cultural preserva-  said, since its launch in 1989, GOPIO
        tion, and community service.      has championed issues affecting the
            The Chief Guest was India’s  Indian Diaspora, including civil rights,
        Deputy Consul General in New York,  human rights, community empower-
        Vishal Harsh, who also presented   ment, and political participation. GO-
        awards to the honorees. Other digni- PIO continues to expand its mission
        taries who spoke at the banquet were   through conferences, public forums,
        CT Senators Sujata Gadkar Wilcox   community celebrations, social service,
        and Tony Hwang, and CT Assembly- a  philanthropic  initiatives.  “GOPIO
        man Jonathan Jacobson.            remains committed to enhancing In-    DCG Vishal Harsh presenting the award  to Nitin Mhatre,  CEO at First County Bank
            Dr. Vishal Harsh, Deputy Consul  dia’s image globally while promoting
        General of India in New York, in his   business, trade, investment, philan-  Distinguished Honorees Across Sectors   •  In Corporate Leadership, the chap-
        keynote address said, “The achieve- thropic linkages between India and                                  ter will recognize Nitin Mhatre, who
        ments of Indian Americans have be- the worldwide Indian Diaspora,” Dr.   This year’s honorees represented    assumed the role of Chief Executive
        come a global benchmark—communi- Abraham the veteran founder of GO-         a wide range of fields:     Officer  at  First  County  Bank  on
        ties across the world look to replicate  PIO said.                 •  In the category of Political Lead-  April 15, 2026. Mhatre takes the
        the success and impact you have creat-  Mike Joshi, the GOPIO-CT Ban-  ership, GOPIO-CT honored  State   helm of an independent mutual
        ed in the United States.” Elaborating  quet Chair and GOPIO-CT Secretary,   Senator Prof. Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox.   community bank that has operated
        on the success story of the Diaspora,  who eloquently emceed the gala, said,   Elected to the Connecticut State   continuously  in  Fairfield  County
        he said,  “The Indian diaspora in the  “The banquet is not only a celebration   Senate in 2024 to represent the   and the surrounding Connecticut
        United  States  stands  as  a  powerful   of the 20th year milestone for GOPIO   22nd  District—which  encompasses   municipalities for more than 174
        testament to excellence, innovation,  but also enabled us to raise funds to   parts of Trumbull, Monroe, and   years.
        and global leadership. They have dis-  support Youth Charity Initiatives in   Bridgeport—Gadkar-Wilcox  is •  Hemchandra M. Shertukde, Ph.D.,
        tinguished  themselves  across  sectors,  our community. Your continued sup-  also a Professor of Legal Studies at   P.E., DMS, who is being recognized
        setting benchmarks of achievement  port makes it possible for GOPIO   Quinnipiac University.            for his Achievements in Engineer-
        and integrity.” He highlighted the   to continue to deliver on its mission  •  The award for Entrepreneurship   ing and Applied Sciences. Dr. Sher-
        numerous consular services available   of enhancing cooperation between   and Business Achievements will be   tukde has served as a faculty mem-
        to the Diaspora community, making   people of Indian Origin with local   presented to Dr. Anil R. Diwan, the   ber in the College of Engineering,
        them available 24/7, to meet the needs   communities and continue to support   founder, president, and executive   Technology, and Architecture at the
        of the community, he said.        through charitable contributions and   chairman of NanoViricides, Inc.   University of Hartford for nearly 40
            Dr.  Thomas  Abraham,  founder  volunteer efforts across Connecticut.”  (NYSE  American:  NNVC).  Head-  years.
        president  of  GOPIO  International   The 2026 honorees included a    quartered in Connecticut, Diwan’s  •  Ajay Ghosh, a veteran journalist
        and chair of the Awards Committee,  state senator, a nanotechnology exec-  firm  has  focused  on  the  develop-  received the award in the Journal-
        emphasized  the  broader  significance   utive, a veteran journalist, a prominent   ment of specialized antiviral thera-  ism category. Ghosh’s career spans
        of the honorees. “Over the past two   regional bank CEO, and a long-stand-  pies using proprietary “nanoviricide”   more than 30 years across mass me-
        decades, GOPIO-CT has set an out- ing  engineering  professor,  reflecting   technology, which aims to neutral-  dia, higher education, and clinical
        standing example of how a local chap- the diverse professional and civic con-  ize viruses mechanically rather than   healthcare, highlighting a versatile
        ter can effectively organize, engage,  tributions of the state’s growing South   relying solely on host immune re-  career path dedicated to public in-
        and serve the community. In many  Asian diaspora.                     sponses.                          terest communication.


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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="26"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 26


                         Grand Finale of Talent Hunt 2026



           by STR Entertainment turns out Bollywood



                                           Singing Extravaganza































        NEERAJ DHAR                                                                                           cash award. In the Under-26 Catego-
                                                                                                              ry, Arnav Pofale captured First Prize
        Edison, NJ
                                                                                                              and a $1,000 cash award, while Kri-
             TR Entertainment successful-                                                                     sha Bhatt was awarded Second Prize
             ly concluded the Grand Finale                                                                    along with a $500 cash prize for her
        Sof Talent Hunt 2026 – The Ul-                                                                        impressive performance and remark-
        timate Voices of Bollywood at Mid-                                                                    able stage confidence.
        dlesex County College’s West Hall in                                                                      The success of Talent Hunt 2026
        Edison, New Jersey, bringing togeth-                                                                  reflected the vision and dedication of
        er  some  of  the  finest  singing  talent                                                            STR Entertainment founders Sanjay
        from across the United States. The                                                                    Shah, Dr. Tushar Patel, and Rupen
        highly anticipated event attracted                                                                    Patel, whose commitment to promot-
        music enthusiasts from the various                                                                    ing Bollywood music and nurturing
        areas of the USA and marked the                                                                       emerging talent has helped establish
        culmination of months of auditions,                                                                   the competition as a premier cultural
        rehearsals, and competition, all ded-                                                                 event. Audience members enjoyed an
        icated  to  celebrating  the  timeless   Bollywood acclaimed music  director   Following a highly competitive   evening filled with live entertainment,
        legacy of Bollywood music and pro-  Jatin Pandit who had popular & me-  evening, Glory Shah was awarded   celebrity appearances, dinner, re-
        viding a professional platform for   lodious songs from 1990-early 2000   First Prize in the above 26 Catego-  freshments, and a vibrant celebration
        emerging artists.                 served as a Celebrity Judge, offering   ry, receiving a trophy and $1,000   of Indian music and culture. In addi-
            The journey began on May 22,   valuable feedback and encourage-  cash award for her captivating per-  tion to trophies and cash awards, win-
        2026, with live auditions held at San-  ment to contestants throughout the   formance and vocal excellence. Dr.   ners will receive opportunities for pro-
        jay’s Studio in New Jersey, where   evening, while host Raahul Jatin kept   Mukram Gazi earned Second Prize   fessional studio recording and future
        more than 65 singers participated in   the audience engaged with his ener-  and a $750 cash award, while Anchal   collaborations with a renowned music
        a unique format that required contes-  getic and charismatic stage presence.  Sinha received Third Prize and a $500   label, providing valuable exposure and
        tants to perform alongside profession-                                                                career advancement opportunities.
        al musicians rather than track singing.                                                                   STR Entertainment extends its
        Judged by acclaimed singer Priya                                                                      sincere  gratitude  to  all  contestants,
        Joshi from Philadelphia, the auditions                                                                musicians, judges, sponsors, televi-
        highlighted exceptional vocal talent,                                                                 sion, radio and print media, volun-
        musicality, and stage presence, re-                                                                   teers, production staff, and audience
        sulting in 38 finalists advancing to the                                                              members whose support contributed
        Semi-Final and Grand Finale rounds.                                                                   to the event’s tremendous success.
            The Grand Finale featured out-                                                                    Building on the momentum of Talent
        standing live performances supported                                                                  Hunt 2026, the organization looks
        by a talented professional orchestra                                                                  forward to continuing its mission of
        whose musical excellence created an                                                                   preserving the rich heritage of Bolly-
        authentic Bollywood concert expe-                                                                     wood music while creating meaningful
        rience with a professional stage with                                                                 opportunities for aspiring performers
        LED wall and lighting. Legendary                                                                      across North America.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="27"><![CDATA[JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 27




























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                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="28"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 28


                       TiEcon New Jersey 2026 Concludes



          Successfully, Bringing Together the Region’s




                                           Innovation Ecosystem




        OUR BUREAU

        Iselin, NJ
              iE New Jersey  successfully
              hosted the inaugural TiEcon
        TNew Jersey 2026, welcoming
        entrepreneurs, investors, corporate
        leaders, policymakers, innovators,
        and ecosystem builders for a sold-
        out day of learning, networking, and
        collaboration at APA Hotel Wood-
        bridge.
            Held under the theme “Leading
        the Intelligence Revolution: Garden
        State to Global Stage,” the confer-
        ence featured 24 speakers, 3 keynote
        sessions, 4 industry panels, a startup
        showcase,  and  an  exclusive  fireside
        chat and book discussion with TiE
        Co-Founder Kanwal Rekhi.
                                          alongside conversations spanning AI,
                                          fintech, life sciences, and venture in-
        A  key highlight of the day was  vesting, made it clear this community
        the keynote address by Dr. Dale   is more than ready for that role. I’m
                                          deeply grateful to every speaker and
        G. Caldwell, Lieutenant Gover-    panelist who made the day extraordi-
        nor of New Jersey, who shared     nary, and I’m excited for what TiEcon
                                          New Jersey will become in the years
        insights on leadership, innova-   ahead,” said Badri Nittoor, Board
        tion, and the future of economic   Member and Conference Convenor.
                                              TiE New Jersey extends its sin-
        growth in the state.              cere gratitude to all speakers, spon-
                                          sors, partners, volunteers, and attend-
            The event brought together lead-  ees whose support and participation
        ers from across technology, health-  made TiEcon New Jersey 2026 a tre-
        care,  finance,  entrepreneurship,  and  mendous success.
        investment, creating opportunities    As New Jersey continues to
        for  meaningful conversations,  new  strengthen its position as a hub for
        partnerships, and knowledge sharing.  innovation and entrepreneurship,
            Diya Mathews, TiE NJ President  TiE New Jersey remains committed
        said “As the inaugural TiEcon hosted  to fostering connections, supporting
        by TiE-NJ chapter, this exceeded all  founders, and building a stronger en-
        our expectations. TiEcon NJ 2026 is  trepreneurial ecosystem.
        a powerful reminder of what happens   TiE New Jersey is part of the
        when entrepreneurs, investors, inno-  global TiE network dedicated to
        vators, and community leaders come  fostering entrepreneurship through
        together with purpose. I’m incredi-  mentoring, networking, education,
        bly proud of the energy, ideas, and  funding, and community building.
        connections this year’s conference  TiE-NJ Board of Directors are Diya
        sparked. The success of TiEcon NJ  Mathews (President), Raman Ka-
        2026 reflects the strength of our eco-  pur (Chairman), Neetu Randhawa
        system  and  our  shared  commitment  (Executive Director), Badri Nittoor
        to helping founders dream bigger,  (TieCon Conference Convenor), Dr.
        scale smarter, and build with impact.”  Suresh U Kumar, Anjan Lahiri, Ra-

            “We set out to show that New Jer-  ghu Rao, Marc Citron, Pravin Patil,
        sey can lead the intelligence revolu-  Ashok Krish, Nivedita Candade, Sue
        tion — and a sold-out room of found-  Lakhanpal, Srinath Geedipalli and
        ers, investors, and industry leaders,  Jyoti Vazirani.

                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="29"><![CDATA[JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 29











































































































                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="30"><![CDATA[NORTH AMERICAN Newsline                                                  JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 30


                           Venkat Duggireddy Receives




             the Prestigious Poorna Nandi Telugu




                                            Tejam Award 2026

































        OUR BUREAU                                                                                            can community.
                                                                                                                  During the event, Mr. Duggired-
        Atlanta, GA
                                                                                                              dy expressed his heartfelt gratitude for
              enkat  Duggireddy of Atlanta,                                                                   receiving this prestigious recognition.
              USA,  was honored  with  the                                                                    He acknowledged the unwavering
        Vprestigious Poorna Nandi Telu-                                                                       support of his family, friends, mentors,
        gu Tejam Award 2026, a distinguished                                                                  colleagues, and community members
        recognition presented by the Telanga-                                                                 who have been an integral part of his
        na Cultural and Living Arts and Movie                                                                 journey. In his remarks, he emphasized
        Art Association. This award celebrates                                                                the importance of giving back to the
        individuals who have demonstrated                                                                     community,  preserving  cultural  heri-
        exceptional dedication, leadership,                                                                   tage, and inspiring future generations
        and service in promoting Telugu cul-                                                                  to contribute meaningfully to society.
        ture, community development, and                                                                         The  evening  was  filled  with  ap-
        social impact.                                                                                        preciation,  heartfelt  tributes,  and
            To commemorate this remarkable                                                                    inspiring messages celebrating Mr.
        achievement, a grand success cele-                                                                    Duggireddy’s achievements and his
        bration was held at the Celebrations                                                                  positive impact on the community.
        Event Hall in Cumming, Georgia. The                                                                   Attendees recognized his dedication,
        event brought together family mem-                                                                    leadership, and commitment to up-
        bers, friends, community leaders, busi-                                                               lifting others, making the event a truly
        ness  professionals,  and well-wishers                                                                memorable occasion.
        from across the Atlanta area to honor                                                                    The gathering also served as a re-
        Mr. Duggireddy’s accomplishments                                                                      minder of the importance of honoring
        and contributions.                                                                                    individuals whose efforts strengthen
            The celebration was graced by                                                                     cultural values, foster community spir-
        several distinguished guests, including                                                               it, and create lasting positive change.
        Georgia State Representative Todd                                                                     Such recognitions inspire others to
        Jones, renowned autism specialist                                                                     strive for excellence and continue serv-
        Dr. A.M. Reddy, Johns Creek City                                                                      ing society with passion and purpose.
        Council Member Dilip Tunki, Inter-                                                                       The Poorna Nandi Telugu Tejam
        sect Groups CEO David Baba, Tony F                                                                    Award 2026 stands as a testament to
        Charles- Black Panther movie, Wissen                                                                  Mr. Venkat Duggireddy’s outstanding
        Tech CEO Upendra Rachupally, Rap-                                                                     contributions  and  exemplary  service.
        id IT CEO Gowtham Goli along with                                                                     His achievement is a source of pride
        many other prominent members of                                                                       for the Telugu community and the
        the Atlanta Telugu and Indian-Ameri-                                                                  broader Atlanta community alike.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="31"><![CDATA[JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 31











































































































                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="32"><![CDATA[Newsmakers of the Week                                                   JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 32




                         NEWSMAKERS OF THE WEEK




                   Selected stories about Indian diaspora from our website www.theindianeye.com



                               TULSI GABBARD                                                       SUNDAR PICHAI

              DNI discloses US funding for                                  Stanford speech marred by walk out

                            global biolabs                                             from student protestors































                 ashington, DC: US Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi   an Francisco, CA: Anti-zionist student protestors staged a walkout during
                 Gabbard on Thursday (local time) disclosed that the United States   Stanford University’s commencement speech which was being delivered
        Whas historically provided funding for more than 120 biological labo- Sby Google CEO and Stanford Alumna Sundar Pichai, Times of Israel
        ratories across over 30 countries.                                  reported on Monday.
            The revelation, supported by newly declassified documents, has prompt-  As per the Times of Israel, the university’s branch of Students for Justice
        ed a major policy shift from the Trump administration.              in Palestine, along with other protest groups had announced the protest last
            The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) statement   month noting that the walkout was in response to the tech company’s connec-
        indicated that many of these facilities have engaged in research involving   tions to Israel.
        hazardous and highly contagious pathogens, including “Gain-of-Function”   “We don’t need another tech billionaire to tell us how to get rich off of the
        research, with what the DNI described as minimal oversight.         killing and surveillance of Palestinians,” Stanford SJP said as per the Israeli
            “ODNI will continue to work closely with partners across the government   outlet. “Take a stance against war profiteering. Tell the Google CEO that he
        to identify where these labs are, what pathogens they contain, to end danger-  is not welcome.”
        ous Gain-of-Function research that threatens the health and well-being of the   It noted that videos show dozens of students walking out of the commence-
        American people and people around the world,” Gabbard stated.       ment  ceremony,  holding  Palestinian  flags  and  chanting,  “Free  Palestine.”
            Declassified records highlight that over 40 laboratories in Ukraine were   Sundar Pichai, MS ‘95, CEO of Google and Alphabet, addressed the Class of
        involved in handling Soviet-era biological warfare pathogens. These facilities   2026 at Stanford’s 135th Commencement ceremony. In a speech Sunday morn-
        reportedly conducted research on Especially Dangerous Pathogens (EDPs),   ing Pichai discussed the many moments in life that shape a person’s trajectory.
        including anthrax, Ebola, MERS, SARS, and the plague.                   “If you are able to filter the signal through the noise, you can nudge your
            “Despite the obvious potential for catastrophic global impact research on   life in these moments into having the impact you want”.
        dangerous pathogens in biolabs can have, politicians, so-called health profes-  In his speech he shared personal anecdotes and offered advice to the
        sionals like Dr Fauci, and entities within the Biden administration’s national   graduating students.
        security team lied to the American people about the existence of US-funded   “Choose optimism. This might not true to you at this moment. The world
        and supported biolabs, and threatened those who attempted to expose the   is going through a lot- global conflicts, economic anxiety, a rewiring of tech-
        truth,” Gabbard said.                                               nology, information overload, all at a fast pace... We don’t get to choose the
            The report cited instances such as the Kherson Diagnostic Laboratory,   world we graduate into, but we do get to choose how we frame our circum-
        which received USD 1,728,822 in funding while its permit for working with   stances,” Pichai told the students.
        specific pathogens remained listed as “in progress.”                    Pichai also told the students to work on the hard things and do the things
            In response to these findings, President Donald Trump has officially end-  that excite them.
        ed federal funding for Gain-of-Function research globally.              More than 20,000 people, including 3,600 students, gathered at Stanford
            DNI Gabbard criticised previous administrations and health officials, al-  Stadium to celebrate one of the university’s largest graduating classes ever.
        leging that they misled the public regarding the existence of these US-sup-  Times of Israel highlighted how American students have repeatedly
        ported biolabs. She reaffirmed the intelligence community’s commitment to   turned commencement ceremonies into anti-Israel protests since the October
        locating these labs and securing the pathogens within them to mitigate risks   7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel and the start of the war in Gaza, as well
        to global health.                                                   as before the war.                       Continued on next page... >>


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="33"><![CDATA[Newsmakers of the Week                                                   JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 33



                                  TEAM USA                                                        DR TARA SHAJAN

         Side Placed Among World’s Top 10                                        NY State names Chief Nursing


             at the Yogasana Championship                                             Officer of Mental Health

                                                                                  lbany, NY:  The New York
                                                                                  State Office of Mental Health
                                                                            A(OMH) has appointed Tara
                                                                            Shajan, MSN, MBA, RN, PMH-BC,
                                                                            PhD, as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
                                                                            of a New York State Psychiatric Cen-
                                                                            ter. The appointment recognizes her
                                                                            extensive leadership experience, clin-
                                                                            ical expertise, and commitment to
                                                                            excellence in psychiatric nursing and
                                                                            healthcare administration.
                                                                                As  Chief  Nursing  Officer  and
                                                                            a member of the hospital’s execu-
                                                                            tive leadership cabinet, Dr Shajan
                                                                            will oversee the strategic direction
                                                                            of nursing services,  advancing  evi-
                                                                            dence-based practice, patient safety,
                                                                            quality outcomes, workforce devel-
              hmedabad: Team USA delivered an outstanding performance at the   opment, and standards of care across the organization.
              inaugural World Yogasana Championship 2026, held June 4–8 at EKA
        AArena in Ahmedabad, India, earning a place among the world’s Top 10    Dr. Shajan brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in behav-
        nations and bringing home five medals.                              ioral health and nursing administration. She has held senior roles at major
                                                                            healthcare systems, including Northwell Health, Montefiore Health, Catholic
            Representing the United States under the banner of the United States
        Yogasana Sports Federation (USYSF), led by Founder and President Mr.   Health, NYC Health + Hospitals, and other leading organizations, with exper-
                                                                            tise spanning nursing operations, quality improvement, regulatory compliance,
        Balwinder Singh, the 10-member team competed alongside 522 athletes from   staff engagement, patient-centered care, and organizational transformation.
        79 countries in one of the largest international Yogasana events ever held.  In her new role, she will lead efforts to strengthen professional nursing
            The U.S. delegation secured one Gold Medal and four Bronze Medals.
        Kemi Blake earned Gold in the Senior B Back Bend category, while Sanjay   practice, clinical excellence, nursing education, leadership development, and
                                                                            recovery-oriented mental health services. She will collaborate with executive
        Attada won two Bronze Medals. Patrick Fletcher and Kimani Blake each add-  leaders, physicians, interdisciplinary teams, and community partners to im-
        ed a Bronze Medal to Team USA’s impressive medal count.             prove healthcare outcomes and advance OMH’s mission.
            “At 45 years, I hope this Gold reminds people that some of our greatest
                                                                                Dr. Shajan is also recognized for her contributions to the nursing profes-
        achievements are still waiting for us,” Kemi Blake, gold medal athlete from   sion through national and international leadership roles. She currently serves
        Las Vegas said.                                                     as Vice President of the National Association of Indian Nurses of America
            Other team athletes, Elena Kangavari, Jeremy Fields, Olga Mysse, Priti
        Dhariwal, Tejal Joshi, and Veronica Vega also represented the nation with dis-  (NAINA), supporting nursing leadership, mentorship, professional develop-
                                                                            ment, and advocacy initiatives.
        tinction, demonstrating skill, dedication, and sportsmanship on the world stage.  Reflecting on her appointment, Dr. Shajan stated:
            “I never imagined I would stand on the world stage as an athlete repre-
                                                                                “I am deeply honored to serve as Chief Nursing Officer for the New York
        senting Team USA. It was a truly rewarding experience, and I am proud to   State Office of Mental Health. This opportunity represents both a privilege
        be part of this historic championship. My sincere thanks to World Yogasana,   and a responsibility to support our dedicated nursing workforce, advance pro-
        Yogasana Bharat, and especially USYSF for this incredible opportunity.” said   fessional practice, and ensure the highest standards of safe, compassionate,
        New Jersey Athlete Priti Dhariwal, competed in Women’s Senior C Category  and person-centered care for the individuals and families we serve. I look
            Hosted by Yogasana Bharat, World Yogasana, and the Indian Olympic
        Association, the championship marked a historic step forward for Yogasana   forward to working alongside our talented teams to strengthen nursing excel-
                                                                            lence and continue improving the quality of behavioral healthcare.”
        as a global competitive sport. Team USA’s strong showing highlights the grow-  This appointment reflects Dr. Shajan’s dedication to nursing leadership
        ing momentum of Yogasana in the United States and reflects the hard work   and her commitment to empowering nurses, advancing innovation, and im-
        of its athletes, coaches, and supporters.                           proving mental healthcare outcomes across New York State.
            “This is a proud moment for the United States of America. Our athletes
        worked extremely hard for months and performed with passion and commit-
        ment, traveling to India and competing on the world stage for the first time!”,   To read more about Indian diaspora and Global Indians, log on to and follow
        Balwinder Singh from Connecticut quoted. “                                            our website www.TheIndianEYE.com



















                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="34"><![CDATA[BUSINESS & TRADE                                                         JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 34


         India’s AI Ambitions Get Global Backing




                        as Mistral Seeks Collaboration





             Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Mistral AI CEO Arthur Mensch

            in Paris highlighted India’s growing focus on artificial intelligence as a driver of

                            economic growth, innovation and technological self-reliance


        OUR BUREAU                                                                                            technology,  become  better  at  build-
                                                                                                              ing it through startups... and through
        Paris / Mumbai
                                                                                                              the general training of the popula-
              rtificial   intelligence   has                                                                  tion so that they make better use of
              emerged  as  one  of  the  defin-                                                               that technology to learn faster and to
        Aing pillars of India’s economic                                                                      build business faster and to generally
        strategy, with the country’s leadership                                                               be more efficient in their life,” he said.
        increasingly viewing the technology as                                                                    This approach reflects one of In-
        a catalyst for productivity, innovation                                                               dia’s comparative advantages. With
        and long-term competitiveness. Prime                                                                  one of the world’s youngest work-
        Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting                                                                      forces and a thriving startup ecosys-
        with Arthur Mensch, Co-founder and                                                                    tem, widespread AI adoption could
        Chief  Executive  Officer  of  France-                                                                improve productivity across sectors
        based Mistral AI, during his visit to                                                                 ranging from manufacturing and
        Paris  reflects  New  Delhi’s  growing                                                                healthcare  to  financial  services,  edu-
        determination to build indigenous AI                                                                  cation and agriculture. Rather than
        capabilities while forging strategic in-                                                              replacing labour, policymakers in-
        ternational partnerships.                                                                             creasingly see AI as a productivity
            The discussions went beyond                                                                       multiplier capable of enabling busi-
        technology cooperation. They under-                                                                   nesses to scale faster and compete
        scored a broader economic vision in                                                                   internationally.
        which artificial intelligence is expect-                                                                  The discussions also highlighted
        ed to transform industries, strengthen                                                                the importance of building a complete
        startups, modernise governance and                                                                    AI value chain. Mensch explained that
        create new opportunities for busi-                                                                    sovereignty extends from “the energy
        nesses across sectors. At the heart of                                                                supply all the way to the creation of what
        the conversation was the concept of                                                                   we call tokens and the creation and dis-
        “sovereign AI” — ensuring that coun-                                                                  tribution of this technology to the peo-
        tries retain control over the critical                                                                ple.” Such an integrated approach rec-
        infrastructure, computing resources   Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Co-Founder & CEO, Mistral Ai, Arthur Mensch, in Paris   ognises that AI leadership depends not
        and data that power next-generation                    on Thursday (DPR PMO/ANI Photo)                only on software but also on computing
        AI systems.                                                                                           infrastructure, reliable power, skilled
           “It was a great pleasure for me   not become the preserve of a few mul-  valuable as India seeks to develop an   talent and broad-based adoption.
        to  be  received  by  His  Excellency,”  tinational companies or governments.  end-to-end AI ecosystem spanning   Equally significant was Mensch’s
        Mensch said after the meeting. “We  “AI is too important a technology not   computing infrastructure, software,  assessment of Prime Minister Modi’s
        discussed artificial intelligence. We’re   to be controlled by sovereign states   talent development and enterprise   understanding of the technology. “I
        a company building sovereign AI ca-  and not to be controlled by sovereign   adoption. Rather than relying entirely   was impressed by the understanding
        pabilities across the world. The discus-  companies,” he said, stressing that ev-  on imported technologies, the objec-  of the Prime Minister and his leader-
        sion revolved around how to build a   ery  country  should  benefit  from  the   tive is to create domestic capabilities   ship on artificial intelligence,” he said.
        full-stack solution that is resilient and   economic growth AI is expected to   that can support Indian businesses  “I was also impressed by the fact that
        that is escaping foreign control, which   generate.                 while remaining globally competitive.  there’s actually very strong alignment
        is something that we can help with.”  The meeting also highlighted In-  A notable aspect of the discus-  with what he says and what we’ve
            The  emphasis  on sovereignty   dia’s growing appeal as an AI innova-  sions was the focus on democratis-  been saying for the last three years.”
        comes at a time when AI development   tion  hub.  According  to  the  Ministry   ing  access  to  artificial  intelligence.   For businesses, the implications
        is increasingly concentrated among a   of External Affairs,  Prime Minister   Mensch emphasised that AI should   are substantial. Greater access to AI
        handful of global technology giants.  Modi showcased the opportunities   benefit not only technology companies   tools could improve efficiency, accel-
        For India, which has built globally   within India’s expanding AI ecosys-  but also citizens, public servants and   erate product development and low-
        competitive  digital  public  infrastruc-  tem, while Mensch expressed Mistral   entrepreneurs across the economy.  er barriers to innovation for startups
        ture over the past decade, policymak-  AI’s strong interest  in collaborating   “It also revolved a lot around how   and small enterprises. International
        ers see AI as the next frontier where   with India and partnering with Indian   to make AI available to everyone,  partnerships with companies such as
        technological independence will have   companies to drive innovation and ex-  both to the citizens, to the civil ser-  Mistral AI can also provide access
        significant  economic  implications.  pand AI capabilities.         vants, and how to make sure that the   to cutting-edge technologies while
            Mensch argued that AI should      Such partnerships could prove   people of India actually train on that   helping develop indigenous expertise.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="35"><![CDATA[TECH EYE                                                                 JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 35



















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                 Apple announces macOS 27 ‘Golden



            Gate’ with Liquid Glass design changes





                                                                                                   It allows users to select portions of the screen and
        OUR BUREAU                                                                      From SmartTV  Download ZingoTV App
        Los Angeles, CA                                                                            get contextual answers. It has been two years since
                                                                                                   unveiling its plans for Apple Intelligence and a
              mid  a  lot  of  anticipation,  Apple  officially                                    smarter Siri, Apple has revealed its brand new set
                                                                                                   of AI features along with a smarter, more person-
              announced the name for its next Mac oper-                                 Login|Register with your eMail then
        Aating system at the 2026 Worldwide Devel-                                                 alised Siri.
        opers Conference (WWDC) on Monday.                                                            The  latest  macOS  release  also  reflects  Ap-
            During the keynote address, Apple’s Senior                                             ple’s  broader  strategy  of  integrating  artificial  in-
        Vice President of Software Engineering, Craig                                              telligence more deeply into everyday computing
        Federighi, announced that macOS 27 will now be                                             while maintaining its long-standing emphasis on
                                                                                                   privacy and user experience. By embedding AI
        officially called the ‘Golden Gate’.                                            Start Watching IndiaLife TV  24 Hours LIVE
            According to The Verge, macOS 27 - the next                                            features  directly  into  the operating  system rath-
        version of its desktop operating system- brings a                                          er than treating them as standalone tools, Apple
        global slider to adjust the opacity of Liquid Glass                                        aims to make routine tasks such as searching, or-
        UI effects, along with a tighter corner radius of                                          ganizing information and interacting with applica-
        windows. This comes alongside Apple’s other up-  ised Apple Intelligence and Siri upgrades, which   tions more intuitive. The redesigned interface is
        dates to Apple Intelligence, search, and parental   include personal context and on-screen awareness.  intended to create a more consistent experience
                                                         Spotlight will have a ‘Search or Ask’ interface,
                                                                                                   across Apple’s ecosystem, bringing the Mac closer
        controls.                                   You can click   www.indialife.tv
            macOS Golden Gate also brings Liquid Glass   powered by the revamped version of Siri.  in look and functionality to the company’s other
        design changes. For example, apps on the Apple   Among other updates, Apple is also revamp-  platforms. Developers are also expected to benefit
        device will now have a unified toolbar at the top,   ing its child safety features across platforms, in-  from updated tools that will help them incorporate
        along with a sidebar that expands to the edge of   cluding macOS Golden Gate.              the new design language and AI capabilities into
                                                                                                   their own applications ahead of the public release
                                                         For visual intelligence, macOS Golden Gate
        the window.                                 on your browser and watch IndiaLife TV 24 Hours
            Golden Gate will also receive the major prom-  27 will be getting a dedicated keyboard shortcut.   later this year.
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            USCIS Withdraws Appeal in Mukherji:


             What Changes—And What Does Not?






        BY CYRUS D. MEHTA AND MAN-  drawn its appeal.          to withdraw its appeal, leav-  whether  the  beneficiary  has   nate  the  “final  merits  deter-
                                       While the withdrawal of   ing the district court’s ruling   risen to the top of the field.   mination” in all cases,  nor
        JEETA CHOWDHARY
                                   the appeal is noteworthy, its   intact in that individual case.  Petitioners should therefore   does it automatically alter
                                   practical  significance  should   The withdrawal of the   continue  preparing  filings   how petitions will be adjudi-
           n our previous blog, we   not be overstated. The de-  appeal is undoubtedly sig-  with the expectation that a   cated tomorrow. However,
           discussed the decision
        Iof a district court in Ne-  cision does not necessarily   nificant, but it is equally im-  holistic review will occur. In-  the case may provide an ad-
                                                                                          deed, the USCIS has been
                                                               portant to understand what it
                                   signal an immediate change
                                                                                                                     ditional point of discussion
        braska in Mukherji v. Miller,   in how USCIS adjudicates ex-  does not mean.      denying EB-1A petitions    in litigation involving denials
        which relied on Loper Bright   traordinary ability petitions.  First, the  withdrawal   even where the petitioner has   where USCIS appears to im-
        principles to overturn an EB-  To briefly recap, the dis-  does not create  a  binding   met three or more of the ten   pose expectations untethered
        1A denial based on USCIS’s   trict court in Mukherji held   precedent beyond the dis-  criteria for determining ex-  from the regulatory text. It
        use  of  the  “final  merits  de-  that USCIS improperly de-  trict court case itself. Had   traordinary ability.   also serves as a reminder
        termination” framework. As   nied the petitioner’s EB-1A   the Eighth Circuit issued a   At  the  same  time,  it   that courts may increasing-
        explained  in  that  post,  the   petition by relying on a sec-  decision  affirming  the  lower   would  be  difficult  to  ignore   ly scrutinize agency-created
        court questioned whether   ond evaluative step—the     court, the ruling may have   the  broader  significance  of   frameworks in the post-Lop-
        USCIS could lawfully impose   so-called “final merits deter-  carried broader precedential   USCIS’s decision not to pur-  er Bright era. It is surprising
        an adjudicatory structure that   mination”—that, according   value within that jurisdiction   sue the appeal. One possible   that the USCIS withdrew
        was not expressly grounded in   to the court, was not prop-  and  potentially  influenced   explanation is institutional   its appeal in the Eight Cir-
        statute or regulation. USCIS   erly adopted through no-  courts elsewhere. By with-  caution. If USCIS had pro-  cuit, which is conservative,
        had appealed that decision   tice-and-comment rulemak-  drawing  the  appeal,  USCIS   ceeded  and  lost  before  the   which means that after Loper
        to the U.S. Court of Appeals   ing under the Administrative   avoided an appellate ruling   Eighth Circuit, it risked creat-  Bright the final merits deter-
        for the Eighth Circuit. Brian   Procedure Act (APA). Rather   on the merits.      ing an unfavorable appellate   mination is vulnerable in any
        Green, who was lead coun-  than continuing to litigate the   Second, USCIS has not   decision concerning the agen-  federal court.
        sel in Mukherji v. Miller has   matter before the Eighth Cir-  rescinded  its  long-standing   cy’s authority to impose ad-  Whether Mukherji ul-
        posted that USCIS has with-
                                   cuit, USCIS has now chosen   adjudicatory approach to ex-  judicatory standards not ex-  timately proves to be an iso-
                                                                  traordinary  ability  peti-  pressly rooted  in regulation.   lated district court decision
                                                                  tions, and it does not ap-  The decision to withdraw the   or the beginning of a broad-
                                                                  pear that the government   appeal may therefore reflect   er  reassessment  of  extraor-
                                                                  withdrew the appeal be-  an effort to preserve flexibility   dinary ability adjudications
                                                                  cause it plans to rescind   while avoiding a precedential   remains to be seen. What is
                                                                  the  final  merits  deter-  rule  with  wider  consequenc-  clear, however, is  that  US-
                                                                  mination policy. USCIS   es, and to allow the USCIS   CIS’s withdrawal of its appeal
                                                                  is still likely to continue   to  deny  meritorious  EB-1A   leaves unresolved—but very
                                                                  adjudicating EB-1A and   cases with impunity under the   much alive—the broader de-
                                                                  EB-1B petitions using   final merits determination.  bate over the limits of agen-
                                                                  the familiar framework     For  individuals  pursuing   cy authority in immigration
                                                                  associated with the Ninth   extraordinary ability classi-  adjudications that are not
                                                                  Circuit decision in Ka-  fications,  the  practical  take-  tethered to the INA, particu-
                                                                  zarian v. USCIS, includ-  away is measured rather than   larly in the post-Loper Bright
                                                                  ing a broader evaluation   dramatic.  While Mukherji   landscape.
                                                                  of whether the evidence   eliminated  the  “final  merits   Manjeeta Chowdhary is
                                                                  collectively demonstrates   determination” in that case,   an Associate at Cyrus D. Mehta
                                                                  sustained acclaim and   it does  not broadly elimi-      & Partners PLLC

                                                                  _____________________________________________________________________________________________
                                                                  Cyrus D. Mehta, a graduate of Cambridge University and Columbia Law School, is the Managing Partner
                                                                  of Cyrus D. Mehta & Partners PLLC in New York City. Mr. Mehta is a member of AILA’s Administrative
                      m of                                        Litigation Task Force; AILA’s EB-5 Committee; former chair of AILA’s Ethics Committee; special counsel
                                                                  on immigration matters to the Departmental Disciplinary Committee, Appellate Division, First Depart-
           CYRUS D. MEHTA & PARTNERS PLLC                         ment, New York; member of the ABA Commission on Immigration; board member of Volunteers for Legal
                                                                  Services and board member of New York Immigration Coalition.  Mr. Mehta is the former chair of the

           
                          
  	                            
             Board of Trustees of the American Immigration Council and former chair of the Committee on Immigra-
                                                                  tion and Nationality Law of the New York City Bar Association. He is a frequent speaker and writer on
              	                                 
                            various immigration-related issues, including on ethics, and is also an adjunct professor of law at Brooklyn
                                                    
             ­
                   
                                                                   Law School, where he teaches a course entitled Immigration and Work.  Mr. Mehta received the AILA
                                                                  2018 Edith Lowenstein Memorial Award for advancing the practice of immigration law and the AILA
                                                                  2011 Michael Maggio Memorial Award for his outstanding efforts in providing pro bono representation
                                                                  in the immigration field. He has also received two AILA Presidential Commendations in 2010 and 2016.
                                                                  Mr. Mehta is ranked among the most highly regarded lawyers in North America by Who’s Who Legal –
          2              6th Floor                                Corporate Immigration Law 2019 and is also ranked in Chambers USA and Chambers Global 2019 in
           
     
        	
     
         
                immigration law, among other rankings.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="37"><![CDATA[JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 37











































































































                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="38"><![CDATA[Business Strategy with Hirav Shah                                        JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 38


               Whatever People Say, 70–80% of





               Life’s Problems Can Be Solved by




         Money — So Earn Well. No Excuses.






         Financial strength reduces fear, improves stability, and increases options.

                                   Ignoring this truth doesn’t make it disappear




                                                                                                              • Build multiple income streams.
                                                                                                              • Treat earning as a discipline, not
                                                                                                                luck.
                                                                                                                  Excuses protect comfort. Income
                                                                                                              builds power.

                                                                                                               Exercise: Financial Reality Check
                                                                                                              Answer honestly:
                                                                                                              1. Is your current income aligned with
                                                                                                                your responsibilities?
                                                                                                              2. If  an  emergency  happens  tomor-
                                                                                                                row, are you financially ready?
                   HIRAV SHAH                                                                                 3. Are you investing in skill growth or
                                                                                                                staying average?
                                                                                                              4. Do you complain more than you
                 e often hear, “Money isn’t                                                                     calculate?
                 everything.” That sounds
        Wnoble. But in practical life,                                                                        5. If money solves most stress, why ar-
        financial strength changes outcomes.                                                                    en’t you prioritizing it?
                                                                                                                  Write down one concrete step to
        Before reacting emotionally, let’s                                                                    increase income within 30 days.
        examine this honestly through ques-
        tions and answers
                                                      Many emotional stresses are triggered by financial pressure.     Practical Tips
         Q1: Is money the most important   When income is stable, anxiety reduces. When savings exist, fear reduces. When cash flow   • Invest in high-value skills.
                                                                                                              • Track income and expenses weekly.
                  thing in life?                            is strong, confidence increases (File photo)      • Build at least one additional in-
            No. Health, relationships, peace                                                                    come source.
        of mind, and purpose matter deeply.   savings exist, fear reduces. When cash   Earning  well  is  not  selfish.  It  is  re-  Network strategically.
        But here is the reality—money pro-  flow is strong, confidence increases.  sponsible.                 Replace “I can’t” with “How can I?”
        tects and supports all of them. With-                                   Financial strength allows you to
        out  financial  stability,  even  strong   Q3: Does money buy happiness?  support family, contribute to society,   Conclusion
        relationships  and good  health  come   Directly? Not always.       donate, invest, and grow.             Money is not God.
        under stress.                     Indirectly? Often.                                                  But money solves problems.
            Money may not be everything.      Research from Princeton Uni-     Q5: Can mindset alone solve        Financial strength reduces fear,
        But lack of money affects almost ev-  versity  has  shown  that income  level   problems without money?  improves stability, and increases
        erything.                         strongly affects life satisfaction and                              options. Ignoring this truth doesn’t
                                          stress levels up to a certain point.   Mindset is powerful. Strategy is   make it disappear.
          Q2: How can 70–80% of life’s    Money may not buy joy, but it buys   powerful. Hard work is powerful. But   So,  the  real  question  is
             problems be financial?       options. And options create freedom.  without  financial  backing,  even  the   not  whether  money  matters.
                                              Freedom reduces pressure. Re-
        Think practically.                duced pressure improves quality of   best mindset struggles to execute.  The real question is—
                                                                                                                  Are you earning according to your
                                                                                Opportunity  requires resources.
        • Medical emergencies need money.  life.                            Resources require income.         potential, or hiding behind excuses?
        • Education needs money.
        • Legal issues need money.         Q4: Why do people resist admit-  Q6: So, what does “Earn Well. No
        • Housing needs money.                                                                                   Hirav Shah is the Global Business
        • Business expansion needs money.     ting money is important?          Excuses.” actually mean?       Strategist, Game Changer, and Author
        • Family security needs money.        Because it sounds materialistic.   It means:                     of 19+ books—trusted worldwide for
            Many emotional stresses are trig-  Society  glorifies  sacrifice  but  quiet-  • Stop romanticizing struggle.  validating big decisions of entrepre-
        gered by financial pressure. When in-  ly respects wealth. The truth is not   • Stop justifying low ambition.  neurs, sportsmen, and entertainers.
        come is stable, anxiety reduces. When   about greed—it is about stability.   • Upgrade skills continuously.  Email : Business@hiravshah.com


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="39"><![CDATA[EYE ON BOLLYWOOD                                                         JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 39


                                       The Silent Heroes:




         A Kangana Film That Puts India’s




                               Nurses in the Spotlight






                ‘Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata’ tells the story of ordinary healthcare workers whose

        extraordinary courage during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks has long remained in the shadows.



        OUR BUREAU                                                                                            are a part of our daily lives; however,
                                                                                                              they have contributed toward a ma-
        Mumbai
                                                                                                              jor cause,” she said, adding that her
                 hen stories are told about                                                                   character uses humour to lighten
                 the 26/11 Mumbai terror                                                                      difficult situations.
        Wattacks,  the  spotlight  usu-                                                                           Esha Dey’s role explores anoth-
        ally falls on security personnel, po-                                                                 er dimension of nursing—the emo-
        lice officers and first responders who                                                                tional  and  personal  sacrifices  that
        confronted the terrorists. Yet behind                                                                 accompany the profession.
        the scenes, another group fought a                                                                       “The  film  shows  different  chal-
        quieter battle—one that unfolded in                                                                   lenges that the nurses go through.
        hospital corridors, emergency wards                                                                   One  of  them  is the  personal  life
        and operating rooms.                                                                                  challenge that my character faces.
            The  just-released  film  Bharat                                                                  She lives alone in Mumbai. After
        Bhhagya Viddhaata seeks to bring                                                                      the incident, everyone goes to their
        those forgotten heroes into public                                                                    families but Babita goes to an empty
        memory by focusing on the nurses,                                                                     house,” she said.
        ward boys and healthcare workers                                                                          The actors also spoke about
        of Mumbai’s Cama Hospital, whose     Kangana Ranaut speaks at the red carpet premier of the film “Bharat Bhagya Vidhata”    working with Ranaut, praising her
        courage and commitment helped                      at PVR ECX Chanakyapuri, in New Delhi (ANI)        professionalism and commitment to
        save hundreds of lives during one of                                                                  the role.
        India’s darkest nights.                                                                                   Smita Tambe, who previously
            Presented by PEN Studios in       She argued that nurses continue   minutes, it will be meaningful,” she   worked with Ranaut in Panga, de-
        association with Manikarnika Films,  to face stereotypes despite perform-  said.                      scribed her as fearless in the choic-
        Paramhans Creations, Eunoia Films   ing some of the most demanding and   The film also highlights the role   es she makes.”She has always been
        LLP  and Floating Rocks  Entertain-  essential responsibilities in health-  hospital staff played during the 26/11   so professional. I have always been
        ment Pvt. Ltd., Bharat Bhhagya    care. “They are underpaid, they are   attacks,  including  helping  investiga-  a  fan  of  hers...  The  courage,  the
        Viddhaata is inspired by real-life   overworked, and they are most sex-  tors identify terrorist Ajmal Kasab.  straightforwardness. I would like to
        incidents  that  unfolded  during  the   ualised,” she said, calling for greater   “People will be surprised to know   take that all my life,” Tambe said.
        Mumbai attacks.                   respect for frontline hospital workers.  that they were the key witnesses in   Girija Oak and Esha Dey
            Rather than celebrating con-      According  to  Ranaut,  the  film   identifying Ajmal Kasab. Even after   echoed  those  sentiments,  saying
        ventional  heroes,  the  film  shifts  at-  attempts to acknowledge an entire   everything they went through, they   Ranaut  brought authenticity  and
        tention to those who rarely receive   workforce whose contribution of-  stood by the country and showed re-  vulnerability to her portrayal. “She
        public recognition despite being   ten goes unnoticed. “When we think   markable courage,” Ranaut said.  brings the vulnerability in the char-
        indispensable to the healthcare sys-  about hospitals, we naturally think of   The supporting cast believes the   acter. She is a very original person.
        tem. It traces the journey of ordinary   doctors, and their contribution is im-  story  resonates  because  it  reflects   In  today’s  world,  it’s  difficult  to  be
        hospital workers who displayed ex-  mense. But why don’t we pause and   the lives of ordinary people placed   original because everyone follows a
        traordinary courage and helped save   think about the millions of workers   in extraordinary situations.  trend,” they said.
        more than 400 lives in the face of un-  who keep the system running every   Actor Smita Tambe said every   At a time when healthcare
        imaginable terror.                day?” she asked.                  nurse portrayed in the film represents   workers are often remembered only
            For lead actor Kangana Ranaut,    She added that nurses under-  a different personality within the   during moments of crisis, the film at-
        who portrays a staff nurse, the proj-  take countless responsibilities, from   profession.”Our characters are nurs-  tempts to restore long-overdue rec-
        ect is as much about changing public   caring for patients to ensuring hos-  es  of different natures. They  have   ognition to those who stood firm in
        perceptions as it is about recounting   pitals function smoothly.   very different and interesting per-  the face of terror. By placing nurses
        history. Ranaut said nursing remains   “We don’t give them the respect   sonalities. I am straight and stubborn.  and support staff at the centre of the
        one of society’s most misunderstood   they deserve. Nurses do a lot of im-  I am focused on my job,” she said.  narrative, it reminds audiences that
        professions. “We want to change   portant work, from cleaning patients   Girija Oak said the characters   history is not shaped only by those
        people’s emotions and perceptions,”  to ensuring the hospital functions   represent familiar faces found in   who carry weapons, but also by those
        she said. “I think it is the most sexu-  smoothly. If our perspective chang-  hospitals across the country.”We   who carry hope, compassion and an
        alised profession.”               es because of this film, even for a few   are representing those people who   unwavering sense of duty.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="40"><![CDATA[BOLLYWOOD GUP-SHUP                                                       JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 40




                   Bollywood Gup-Shup















          SAIF ALI KHAN                                                     KRITI SANON


          Actor pays tribute to his father at Winchester College            Actor says ‘Cocktail 2’ carries a relevant message

                 ollywood actor Saif  Ali Khan paid                                                          ctor Kriti Sanon shared the mes-
                 tribute to his father, the late Man-                                                        sage behind her upcoming film
          Bsoor Ali Khan Pataudi--fondly                                                             A‘Cocktail 2’ at the press confer-
          known as Tiger Pataudi--at a  spe-                                                         ence in Delhi. Kriti Sanon revealed that
          cial ceremony held at Winchester                                                            the film carries a “relevant and rooted
          College. According to the press                                                             message” which will revolve around re-
          note shared by the actor’s team,                                                             lationships and commitment.
          Saif attended the  unveiling of a                                                                When  asked by ANI about the
          commemorative plaque at the                                                                   film’s underlying  message,  Kriti Sa-
          college’s historic cricket pavilion,                                                           non said, “There is a message in this
          Hunter Tent. Saif remembered                                                                   film. It is a very relevant message.
          his father, who began  his cricket-                                                             Nowadays, the type of relationships,
          ing journey at Winchester College,                                                              situationship and questions related
          and expressed his gratitude towards the                                                         to commitment are going on, there
          college for celebrating his father’s legacy                                                     is a very relevant and rooted mes-
          through this unique event. “As a former pupil of                                               sage at the end of the movie.”
          Winchester College myself, it’s a great privilege to return here
          today to honour my father’s legacy. Winchester was where my                      The movie is directed by Homi Adajania  and is
          father’s cricketing journey truly began. It was a place he spoke   written by Tarun Jain and Luv Ranjan. The music of the film is
          of with great affection, not only for the sport but for the friend-  composed by Pritam. Kriti shares the screen space with Shahid Ka-
          ships, values and experiences that shaped him. Our family is im-  poor and Rashmika Mandanna in the film. The almost three-min-
          mensely proud and grateful that Winchester College has chosen     ute  trailer  of  the  film  features a tale of chaos, confusion  and
          to honour him in this way. We hope this plaque will inspire fu-   heartbreak between three friends, Kunal (Shahid Kapoor), Diya
          ture generations of pupils, just as Winchester inspired him,” he   (Rashmika Mandanna) and Ally (Kriti Sanon). In the trailer, the
          said, according to a press release.                               lead cast were seen travelling, where the trio explore their friend-
                                                                            ship and different aspects of their relationship, including a possi-
                                                                            bility of a threesome.
          SARA ARJUN


          Raj Arjun sends warm birthday wishes to his daughter
                  ctor Raj Arjun shared a heartwarming birthday wish for his daughter, ‘Dhurandhar’ star
                  Sara Arjun.Penning down his emotions through a special Hindi note, Raj Arjun described
          ASara as more than just a daughter, calling her “a prayer, a comfort, and an entire sky” who
          brought light and meaning to his life.
              Reflecting on how her arrival transformed his world, he explained that Sara’s presence filled his life
          with warmth and joy. “Happy Birthday, my love. Because of you, there is light in my mornings; there is
          peace in my evenings; there is faith in my prayers; you are my whole world,” the actor concluded in the post.
              Raj Arjun also included a special video carousel, featuring pictures with his daughter. “Happy
          Birthday. Wish you all the best,” a message on the video read. The ‘Dhurandhar’ actor also replied to
          the post and added, “Papa” along with heart emojis.

              On the work front, Sara Arjun was last seen in Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar’ films. She essayed
          the role of the actor’s love interest, Yalina Jamali.



                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="41"><![CDATA[JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 41











































































































                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="42"><![CDATA[STUMP VISION                                                             JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 42


             Virat and Kane: Two Legends,





             Two Paths, One Last Goodbye





            As a member of the “Fab Four”; alongside Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Joe Root; Williamson

         stood out for his classical technique. While others relied on high-intensity movement or unorthodox
           triggers, Williamson played the ball late, directly under his eyes with soft hands, allowing him to

                                           neutralize seam movement across all conditions


                                                                                                                  As the twilight of his career ap-
                                                                                                              proached, Williamson prioritized lon-
                                                                                                              gevity and family, stepping down from
                                                                                                              captaincy roles and eventually declin-
                                                                                                              ing a central contract to manage his
                                                                                                              workload in global franchise leagues.
                                                                                                              His  final  international  appearance
                                                                                                              came at Lord’s in June 2026, marking
                                                                                                              the end of a storied journey.


                                                                                                              He retired as New Zealand’s
                 ARCHAN MEHTA
                                                                                                              leading run-scorer across all
              he story of Kane Stuart Wil-                                                                    formats, a testament to a ca-
              liamson begins in Tauranga,
        TNew Zealand, within a family                                                                         reer that spanned 378 match-
        where sport was a way of life. A top                                                                  es and 19,346 runs. He left
        talent at Tauranga Boys’ College, he
        was  already scoring schoolboy  cen-                                                                  the game as he played it: on
        turies at a clip that hinted at his fu-                                                               his own terms, with no regrets,
        ture greatness. His early years were
        defined by a quiet selflessness; a no-                                                                and  with  the  total  respect  of
        table instance involved him shielding                                                                 the cricketing world.
        a teammate from facing a single ball
        during a high-pressure chase, only
        stepping aside at the very end to en-                                                                     Williamson’s legacy is more than
        sure his partner shared the spotlight.                                                                just his 48 international centuries or
        This humility became the bedrock                                                                      his six Test double-centuries; it is the
        of his career, carrying him from a    A defining narrative of his career was his enduring bond with Virat Kohli (File photo)  blueprint  he left  for  leadership.  He
        captaincy role in the 2008 Under-19                                                                   proved  that  elite  performance  does
        World Cup to a challenging senior de-  2019 World Cup final and capturing   doubted his “classical” style could   not require an abrasive ego, and that
        but in 2010, where he quickly evolved   the inaugural World Test Champion-  dominate T20 cricket.     a team can reach the pinnacle of the
        from a nervous starter into a centuri-  ship title in 2021.             A  defining  narrative  of  his  ca-  sport through humility, grace, and
        on against India in Ahmedabad.        As a member of the “Fab Four”;   reer was his enduring bond with Vi-  collective execution. As he transitions
            When Williamson took the reins   alongside Virat Kohli, Steve Smith,   rat Kohli. First crossing paths in the   into his post-international life, he
        from the charismatic Brendon Mc-  and Joe Root; Williamson stood out   2008 Under-19 semi-finals, their rela-  leaves behind a Black Caps side that
        Cullum in 2016, he inherited a team   for his classical technique. While oth-  tionship evolved from fierce on-field   is a reflection of his own steady, com-
        defined  by  high-risk  aggression  and   ers relied on high-intensity movement   rivalry to a deep off-field friendship.   posed character.
        transformed it into  a  juggernaut of   or unorthodox triggers, Williamson   They were often seen sitting together   In the end, Kane Williamson
        tactical consistency. Where McCul-  played the ball late, directly under his   on boundary hoardings during rain   didn’t just play the game; he elevated
        lum provided the emotional spark,   eyes with soft hands, allowing him to   delays or quiet moments, discuss-  it, showing us all that true greatness is
        Williamson offered the structural re-  neutralize seam movement across all   ing life rather than the game. Kohli   measured by how you treat the game
        silience needed for long-term success.   conditions. Statistically, he was a pil-  once remarked that if he had to share   and those who play it alongside you.
        He cultivated a team culture rooted   lar of consistency, maintaining a Test   the number one spot with anyone,   Archan Mehta is a writer ded-
        in values, hard work, and innovation   average over 50 throughout his career   it would be Williamson, noting that   icated to telling compelling stories
        under pressure, allowing New Zea-  and becoming the fastest player to   their rivalry was entirely free of an-  about athletes, teams, and the world
        land to punch well above its weight   score centuries against all nine major   imosity. This mutual respect culmi-  of cricket
        against wealthier cricketing nations.   Test nations. His 2018 IPL campaign   nated in similar farewells, with both
        Under his stewardship, the Black   with Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he   greats retiring just short of the 10,000-  Archan Mehta is a writer dedicated
        Caps became a permanent fixture in   claimed the Orange Cap with 735   run Test milestone, leaving behind a   to telling compelling stories about
        ICC tournament finals, reaching the   runs, further  silenced  critics  who   void in the sport’s landscape.   athletes, teams, and the world of cricket


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="43"><![CDATA[STUMP VISION                                                             JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 43


         Fear Factor: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s




                 Explosive Talent Is Beginning to




                                       Unsettle Opponents






          The teenage batting sensation is already forcing rivals to rethink their approach, with


                   emotions boiling over during India’s dramatic clash against Sri Lanka A.


        OUR BUREAU                                                                                            ing the rare Super Over. The thrilling
                                                                                                              finish  left  spectators  anticipating  an
        Colombo / Mumbai
                                                                                                              exciting conclusion, but few expected
              ricket has always celebrated                                                                    emotions to spill over so dramatically
              fierce  rivalries,  but  occasion-                                                              once the cricket had ended.
        Cally a young player emerges                                                                              Ultimately, Sri Lanka A col-
        whose talent alone is enough to un-                                                                   lected the two points by winning the
        settle opponents. Vaibhav Sooryavan-                                                                  tie-breaker, leaving them all but as-
        shi appears to be becoming one such                                                                   sured of a place in the tournament final.
        cricketer.                                                                                                Despite the defeat, India’s cam-
            The teenage  batting prodigy                                                                      paign continues to produce encour-
        found himself at the centre of an ugly                                                                aging signs, particularly through the
        on-field confrontation after India A’s                                                                emergence of several exciting young
        dramatic one-day tri-series match                                                                     players. Shedge’s counter-attacking
        against Sri Lanka A in Dambulla on                                                                    innings, Nigam’s resilience, Arshad
        Monday. Although the hosts eventu-                                                                    Khan’s nerve under  pressure and
        ally prevailed in a Super Over, much                                                                  Sooryavanshi’s  growing presence
        of the post-match discussion revolved                                                                 have all highlighted the depth of In-
        around the heated exchange involv-                                                                    dia’s next generation.
        ing Sooryavanshi and Sri Lankan                                                                           Among      them,    however,
        player Vishen Halambage, an inci-                                                                     Sooryavanshi continues to attract the
        dent that suggested the youngster’s   At an age when most cricketers are still learning the basics of professional cricket, Vaibhav   greatest attention.
        growing reputation is already making                                                                      While his statistics from this
        opponents nervous.                  Sooryavanshi is increasingly attracting special attention from opponents determined to   particular match may not define the
            According  to  ESPNcricinfo,                         contain him (ANI file photo)                 contest, his reputation clearly did.
        tensions boiled over immediate-                                                                       The willingness of opponents to en-
        ly after the Super Over concluded,   ing action has already drawn com-  mentum swings.                gage him emotionally reflects a play-
        with Sooryavanshi and Halambage   parisons with Sri Lankan pace star    India A looked headed for a   er whose impact extends beyond runs
        becoming involved in a verbal alter-  Matheesha  Pathirana,  kept  both   heavy defeat after collapsing to 143   alone. Opposition teams increasingly
        cation that reportedly escalated into   Sooryavanshi and Suryansh Shedge   for seven. However, Suryansh Shedge   recognise that allowing the teenager
        physical  contact.  As  tempers  flared   quiet during the decisive over.  and Vipraj Nigam produced a mag-  to settle could prove costly, making
        in the fading light, Sri Lanka A wick-  Yet  while  Sri  Lanka  celebrat-  nificent  rescue  act,  adding  104  runs   psychological pressure another weap-
        etkeeper Niroshan Dickwella inter-  ed victory, the emotional aftermath   for the eighth wicket to revive the in-  on in their arsenal.
        vened to separate the players before   underlined another story unfolding   nings. Their partnership lifted India   That approach, however, carries
        the situation worsened.           around Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise. At   A to a competitive total of 265 after   risks. Attempts to intimidate gifted
            The confrontation came at the   an age when most cricketers are still   what had appeared an almost hope-  young players often strengthen their
        end of one of the most dramatic   learning the basics of professional   less position.                resolve rather than weaken it. Many
        matches of the tournament.        cricket, he is increasingly attracting   Sri  Lanka  A  responded  confi-  of cricket’s greatest batsmen have
            After  both  teams  finished  tied   special attention from opponents de-  dently,  anchored by  an  excellent 93   learned early in their careers that hos-
        at the end of their allotted 50 overs,   termined to contain him.   from Sadeera Samarawickrama. His   tile words and aggressive behaviour
        the contest moved into a Super Over.   Aggressive tactics, close verbal   composed innings kept the hosts   frequently accompany success.
        Sri Lanka A posted 16 runs, immedi-  exchanges and visible celebrations   firmly  in  control  for  much  of  the   Monday’s incident may there-
        ately placing India A under immense   have become familiar  responses   chase and appeared to have taken the   fore represent another milestone in
        pressure. Chasing the target, India A   whenever the young left-hander   match away from India.       Sooryavanshi’s development. Rather
        could manage only nine runs as debu-  walks to the crease. Monday’s con-  But the visitors refused to sur-  than simply being viewed as a prom-
        tant fast bowler Kugathas Mathulan   frontation appeared to be another   render.                      ising youngster, he is beginning to be
        delivered a composed performance   example of the pressure and scrutiny   Arshad Khan delivered an out-  treated as a genuine threat—some-
        under pressure to seal victory for the   that accompany exceptional talent.  standing  final  over  that  dramatical-  one capable of changing matches and
        home side.                            The match itself had been an   ly altered the course of the contest,   forcing opponents out of their com-
            Mathulan, whose slingy bowl-  extraordinary contest filled with mo-  dragging the game into a tie and forc-  fort zone.


                                                               www.TheIndianEYE.com]]></page><page Index="44"><![CDATA[JUNE 26, 2026     |  The Indian Eye 44











































































































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