The proposed $4,000 H-1B extension fee would not apply to every employer or visa holder. It targets companies with at least 50 U.S. employees when more than half hold H-1B or L-1 status, expanding the surcharge to same-employer extension petitions as well. Which employers meet the threshold? The eligibility rules are part of a broader

A pending DHS rule could extend the $4,000 H-1B extension fee and $4,500 L-1 surcharge to routine stay extensions filed by large visa-dependent employers, increasing retention costs for technology and consulting companies and affecting many India-born professionals. DHS keeps broader surcharge at final-rule stage The Department of Homeland Security proposed the change on June 6, 2024. It would

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says Iran will not expand war or prolong the current conflict, but it will defend its borders against threats. He also stressed social unity, national security, military coordination and his commitment to remain in office. Iran War Policy Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Tuesday, August 4, that Tehran was not seeking to continue or expand the ongoi

The proposed EPF wage ceiling hike from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 could increase mandatory provident fund contributions and pension coverage for many employees.  EPF Wage Ceiling May Rise To Rs 25,000: PF And Pension Impact The government is reportedly considering raising the Employees’ Provident Fund wage ceiling from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month, a move that could bring millions of additional workers under mandatory provident fun

Gujarat has reported 22 child deaths linked to the latest Chandipura virus outbreak, while 35 of 184 suspected cases have tested positive. The insect-borne virus can rapidly cause brain inflammation, seizures and coma, making early hospital care critical for affected children. Chandipura Virus Outbreak Raises Concern In Gujarat Gujarat is witnessing a renewed Chandipura virus outbreak during the 2026 monsoon seas

The Trump Iran pressure strategy has entered a new phase after reports that US Central Command asked military analysts for unconventional ideas to increase pressure on Tehran. The move comes amid continued military operations, stalled negotiations and renewed efforts to reshape US policy toward Iran. CENTCOM Email Requests New Ideas A senio

Trump Unveils Anti-Drone Technology Incubator Initiative The Trump anti drone technology initiative seeks to accelerate next-generation counter-drone systems through partnerships with private companies. The program aims to strengthen US battlefield readiness and homeland security as drone attacks become an increasingly significant global threat. US Counter-Drone Program

India defends Indus Waters Treaty suspension as Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra says Pakistan gradually destroyed the agreement's spirit through terrorism, conflict and repeated treaty disputes. The decision follows the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and reflects New Delhi's security concerns and long-standing objections.   India Defends Indus Waters Treaty Suspen

Russia is reportedly providing Iran with satellite surveillance and signals intelligence that could strengthen Tehran’s air defences, protect military assets and improve the accuracy of its drone and missile operations. The claims come from US and European officials, but neither Moscow nor Tehran has confirmed the alleged cooperation. Russian Satellite Data May Strengthen Iran Air Defence Off

Karnataka has an estimated 2.60 lakh people living with HIV, while around 2.05 lakh are receiving antiretroviral therapy. The figures highlight the need for wider testing, early diagnosis, reduced stigma and faster access to free treatment. Karnataka HIV Report Shows Treatment Coverage Gap Karnataka is estimated to have around 2.60 lakh people living with HIV, while approximately 2.05 lakh are receiving antiretroviral therapy, accord

Trump OPT Proposal Could Cost Indian Students $100,000 The Trump OPT proposal could dramatically increase the cost of studying in the United States by introducing a reported $100,000 fee for post-study work authorization. While the proposal has not been officially announced, it has raised concerns among Indian students, universities and employers because of the OPT programme's importance. US OPT Programme F

The US is considering a $100,000 OPT fee for international graduates, though no formal policy has been issued. The proposal comes as a separate DHS rule ending duration of status for many F, J and I visa holders takes effect on September 15, 2026, nationwide. The Trump administration is considering a $100,000 fee connected to Optional Practical Training, according to a Wall Street Journal report published Thursday, July 30

The United States has added foreign-produced humanoid and quadruped robots to the Federal Communications Commission’s Covered List, restricting new models from receiving authorization for the American market. The FCC says connected robots could create cybersecurity, surveillance and supply-chain risks. FCC rules target foreign-produced robots The FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bu

Trump Iran nuclear threat returned to the spotlight after US President Donald Trump warned that Washington could launch fresh military strikes if Tehran refuses a nuclear agreement. Speaking before meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump questioned Israel's public intelligence disclosures while reaffirming that military action remains an option.

Researchers completed testing of a 582-tonne superconducting magnet designed to support the development of future fusion reactors. China Artificial Sun Programme Reaches Major Magnet Milestone China has completed the development and testing of a massive superconducting magnet intended to advance its nuclear fusion research programme, popularly described as the country’s artificial Sun project. Developed by the Institute of Plas

Many Indian politicians and senior officials have children or spouses studying, working or living abroad. Such connections are legal and common, but public controversies often raise a broader question: should senior officeholders disclose significant overseas family, residency and financial links? China naked officials policy China uses the informal expression “naked officials” for certain

The FDA has classified a nationwide levothyroxine recall involving select Major Pharmaceuticals tablets after potency testing found some lots contained less active ingredient than required. The action covers multiple strengths and package sizes used for thyroid treatment. Nationwide levothyroxine recall The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has classified a nationwide recall involving select lo

Guru Purnima 2026 will be celebrated across India on Wednesday, July 29, to honour teachers, spiritual masters and mentors. The festival falls on Ashadha Purnima and is associated with Maharishi Veda Vyasa, the Adiyogi tradition and India’s ancient guru-shishya relationship. Guru Purnima 2026 date and time in India Guru Purnima will be celebrated in India on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. The f

Private summer camps in Beijing are reportedly preparing Chinese students for possible encounters with US immigration officers as anxiety grows over stricter enforcement and changing expectations for international students. Advertisements for the programmes describe simulations involving US Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in homes, schools and public places. The training forms part of broader safety courses that already cover sca

Americans increasingly doubt the Iran war will end soon as diplomacy stalls, Congress debates presidential war powers, shipping risks rise in the Strait of Hormuz and new polling shows voters expect the conflict to continue for months or years rather than weeks. Timeline remains uncertain U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz has declined to place a deadline on the conflict. Waltz sa