Indians Seek Divine Help for US Visa Approvals Amid Trump Restrictions

In a touching reunion, Dr. J. Radhakrishnan, an IAS officer, officiated the wedding of Meena, a survivor of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, in Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu. Radhakrishnan, who rescued Meena from the debris as a district collector in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, has remained a significant figure in her life. The couple exchanged vows at the Sri Nellukkadai Mariamman Temple, attended by fellow survivors from the children's home where Meena lived after being rescued. Radhakrishnan provided Meena with support throughout her education, guiding her to become a nurse. Sharing photos from the ceremony on Instagram, Radhakrishnan expressed his joy, stating, "Our post-tsunami journey with the children of Nagai has always been one of hope." His heartfelt commitment and care have not gone unnoticed, with many online praising him as a "true hero" and a source of inspiration. This ceremony marks a significant milestone in Meena’s life, demonstrating resilience and the profound connections formed in the wake of tragedy.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently presented the Union Budget for 2025, which has been hailed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a significant win for middle-class families. According to the budget announcement, individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh (approximately $14,500) will not be liable for income tax, a move aimed at providing financial relief amid rising living costs. In addition to tax exemptions, the budget outlines investments in infrastructure and various social programs, which officials claim will boost economic growth and create jobs. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive economy that supports all citizens. The budget has sparked discussions among political leaders, with some opposition figures, such as Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav, expressing concerns over fiscal priorities and the potential impact on public services. The budget proposal has received mixed reactions, with many in the middle class praising the tax benefits, while critics call for a more balanced approach that addresses inequality and public sector needs.

A United States military aircraft carrying 205 Indian migrants took off from San Antonio, Texas, on February 4, 2025, bound for Amritsar, Punjab. This deportation flight is part of an intensified crackdown on illegal immigration by the Trump administration, which includes stricter border enforcement, according to a spokesperson from the US Embassy. The C-17 aircraft is expected to arrive in India within 24 hours. As part of broader immigration policies, recent measures also include the removal of deportation protections for around 348,000 Venezuelans in the US, as announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The Trump administration claims these actions are necessary to combat illegal migration and protect US interests. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar responded to the situation, stating that the Indian government welcomes the return of its citizens living illegally abroad and noted an estimated 18,000 Indian nationals currently undocumented in the US. Military flights have also been employed to deport immigrants to other countries such as Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras.