Rajnath to visit Morocco, first by any Indian Defence Minister

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

**Rajnath Singh to Visit Morocco: First Visit by an Indian Defence Minister**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 20, 2025, 02:54 PM*

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Morocco starting September 22. This marks the first time an Indian Defence Minister will visit the North African country, underscoring the importance of strengthening strategic ties between India and Morocco.

### Strengthening Strategic Ties

The visit aims to enhance defense cooperation and industrial collaboration between the two nations. During his trip, Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the Tata Advanced Systems Maroc’s new manufacturing facility for the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8 in Berrechid.

### A Milestone in Defence Manufacturing

The Berrechid plant stands out as a significant milestone — it is the first Indian defense manufacturing unit established on African soil. This development is a major achievement under India’s **Aatmanirbhar Bharat** initiative and highlights the expanding global footprint of India’s defence industry.

The visit follows an invitation from Morocco’s Minister Delegate of National Defense, Abdellatif Loudiyi, emphasizing the diplomatic significance of this engagement.

### Strategic Discussions and Cooperation

During the visit, Singh will hold bilateral talks with Minister Loudiyi to explore avenues for enhanced defense cooperation and strategic partnerships. Additionally, he is expected to meet Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, to discuss opportunities for industrial collaboration.

A key outcome anticipated from this visit is the signing of a **Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation**. This MoU would formalize bilateral exchanges, joint training programs, and industrial linkages between the two countries.

### Growing Diplomatic Relations

India-Morocco relations have progressively strengthened since 2015, following a notable meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Mohammed VI. Rajnath Singh’s visit is expected to inject fresh momentum into this growing partnership, particularly in the defense and strategic sectors.

The Ministry of Defence also highlighted that Indian Navy ships have been making regular port calls at Casablanca in recent years. The new agreements set to be signed during this visit are anticipated to further consolidate maritime cooperation between India and Morocco.

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This historic visit and the initiatives it heralds signify India’s commitment to expanding its defense diplomacy and industrial collaboration beyond traditional boundaries, paving the way for deeper bilateral engagement with Morocco and the African continent.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/rajnath-to-inaugurate-tasl-armored-vehicle-unit-during-morocco-visit/story

How Trump’s H-1B fee hike could affect US healthcare system

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

**How Trump’s H-1B Fee Hike Could Affect the US Healthcare System**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 20, 2025, 05:03 PM*

The Trump administration has announced a staggering increase in the annual fee for H-1B visas, raising it by $100,000. This drastic move is expected to have severe implications for the US healthcare system, where over 30% of medical residents are international graduates.

Currently, around 10,000 out of 43,000 residency positions are occupied by H-1B visa holders. With the new fee hike, hospitals may find it financially unfeasible to sponsor these visas for residents earning an annual salary of approximately $55,000. This could intensify the existing staffing shortages and ultimately compromise patient care.

**Staffing Crisis: Visa Costs Surge, Risking Patient Care**

Previously, H-1B visa fees were less than $5,000. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick commented on the change, saying, “No longer will you put trainees on an H-1B visa — it’s just not economic anymore.” The increase poses a significant challenge to hospitals that rely on international medical graduates to fill crucial residency roles.

**Application Impact: Program Now Feasible Only for High-Value Roles**

The policy raises costs so substantially that the H-1B program may now only be viable for high-value roles. It remains unclear whether the $100,000 fee will be charged upfront or on an annual basis. While visa quotas remain unchanged—65,000 for regular applicants and 20,000 for advanced degree holders—officials expect a sharp decline in applications due to the prohibitive costs.

**Business Impact: IT Firms Likely to Be Most Affected**

India, which accounted for 71% of H-1B approvals last year, stands to be heavily impacted. Major IT firms like Infosys, TCS, and Wipro, which send large numbers of junior and mid-level engineers to the US, may face significant challenges under the new fee structure.

To illustrate, Amazon leads with 10,044 H-1B visa holders, followed by TCS (5,505), Microsoft (5,189), Meta (5,123), Apple (4,202), Google (4,181), Deloitte (2,353), Infosys (2,004), Wipro (1,523), and Tech Mahindra Americas (951).

**Opposition Response: Policy Draws Criticism**

The fee hike has sparked criticism from US lawmakers and immigration advocates. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi described the policy as “reckless,” warning that it could cut the US off from high-skilled talent essential for innovation and job creation.

Ajay Bhutoria, former advisor to President Joe Biden, cautioned that the increase might “crush small businesses and start-ups reliant on diverse talent” and push skilled workers to seek opportunities in Canada or Europe. This, he warned, could weaken America’s competitive edge in the global market.

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The $100,000 H-1B visa fee hike represents a significant shift in immigration policy with far-reaching consequences, particularly for the US healthcare and IT sectors. Its full impact remains to be seen but is expected to challenge both employers and skilled foreign workers across the country.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/us-healthcare-braces-for-impact-as-trump-hikes-h-1b-fee/story

Tribal farmers can lease land to private entities; govt to bring law: Minister

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

Tribal farmers in Maharashtra will soon have the opportunity to lease their land to private entities for agricultural purposes or mineral excavation, enabling them to generate additional income, state Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has announced.

Currently, tribal farmers are not permitted to independently enter into lease agreements with private parties. However, a new law is set to change this, providing tribals direct access to private investment while safeguarding their land ownership rights.

Speaking to reporters in Gadchiroli on Friday evening, Bawankule stated, “A law will be brought soon. Under this policy, tribal farmers will be able to lease out their land directly to private parties for agricultural purposes or mineral excavation.”

To ensure transparency and fairness, all lease agreements will require the participation of the district collector. The minister added, “The minimum lease rent will be Rs 50,000 per acre annually or Rs 1,25,000 per hectare per year. Farmers and private parties can mutually decide on a higher amount.”

Additionally, tribal farmers will be allowed to enter into Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with private companies for mineral excavation if major or minor minerals are discovered on their land. They will receive monetary benefits based on the quantity of minerals extracted, either per tonne or per brass, although the exact compensation details are yet to be finalized.

Bawankule emphasized that tribal farmers will not have to approach Mantralaya in Mumbai for approvals; decisions can be made at the district collectorate level, streamlining the process.

Officials explained that this policy aims to secure a steady source of revenue for tribal communities while protecting their ownership rights. Previously, strict regulations to prevent misuse of tribal land often caused delays and made tribals dependent on state-level permissions.

This development marks a significant step toward empowering tribal farmers economically while ensuring their land rights remain intact.

*This article includes information sourced from third-party syndicated feeds. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, or reliability of the content. Mid-day management reserves the right to alter, delete, or remove content at its sole discretion without prior notice.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/tribal-farmers-can-lease-land-to-private-entities-govt-to-bring-law-minister-23594956

Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP on Yasin Malik`s claims

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

After Mehbooba Mufti urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to look into Yasin Malik’s case through a humanitarian lens, the former Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid on Friday criticised JKLF chief Yasin Malik’s claims.

The former JK DGP revealed that Yasin Malik had briefed then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh after meeting Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, calling it a “matter of shame” for the government at that time. Yasin Malik has been convicted in terror-related cases and is currently serving a life sentence in a 2017 terror-funding case.

Malik claimed in a sworn affidavit that he travelled to Pakistan, met Hafiz Saeed, and subsequently briefed Manmohan Singh, according to a report by ANI.

Speaking to the media on Friday, former JK DGP SP Vaid expressed shock that someone involved in killings could have been used for “diplomatic purposes.” He asserted, “What could be more shameful than this?”

According to ANI, Vaid said, “Yasin Malik’s affidavit states that he travelled to Pakistan, met with Hafiz Saeed, and subsequently briefed then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh upon his return. This means you are using a murderer like Yasin Malik, who killed five of your air force men and was responsible for the deaths of many Kashmiri Hindu pandits.”

He further added, “A murderer is being used as a diplomat to approach Hafiz Saeed, who is an India-hater and heads Lashkar-e-Taiba, responsible for killing thousands of Indians. I leave it to the people of this country to decide what kind of government they want. It is such a disgrace to have such diplomacy and government.”

A day earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik claimed before the Delhi High Court that, far from being a terrorist, he was repeatedly engaged by six successive Indian governments—from VP Singh to Manmohan Singh—to participate in peace initiatives concerning Kashmir.

Malik further alleged that the meetings facilitated by the Indian establishment were later “twisted” to portray him as a conspirator, ANI reported.

Currently serving a life sentence in a 2017 terror-funding case, Malik made these assertions in detailed written submissions filed in response to the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) appeal seeking the death penalty against him.

According to Malik, his engagement began in the early 2000s when then Intelligence Bureau (IB) Special Director Ajit Doval visited him in jail to convey the Vajpayee government’s interest in a peace process.

Malik further asserted that following his meeting with Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor set up a meeting with IB Director Shyamal Dutta and NSA Brajesh Mishra, who asked for his support for the Ramzan ceasefire.

(With inputs from ANI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/former-jammu-and-kashmir-dgp-on-yasin-maliks-claims-says-what-could-be-more-shameful-than-this-23594966

How Trump’s H-1B fee hike could affect US healthcare system

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

**How Trump’s H-1B Fee Hike Could Affect the US Healthcare System**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 20, 2025, 05:03 PM*

—

The Trump administration has announced a staggering increase in the annual fee for H-1B visas, raising it by $100,000. This unprecedented hike is expected to have severe implications for the US healthcare system, where over 30% of medical residents are international graduates.

Currently, approximately 10,000 out of 43,000 residency positions in the United States are occupied by H-1B visa holders. With the new fee soaring from less than $5,000 to $100,000 annually, hospitals may be deterred from sponsoring these visas for residents who earn an average salary of around $55,000. This change threatens to exacerbate the existing staffing shortages in the healthcare sector, potentially compromising patient care.

“No longer will you put trainees on an H-1B visa — it’s just not economic anymore,” said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, highlighting the financial strain the fee hike places on medical institutions.

—

### Impact on the H-1B Program

The drastic increase in visa fees makes the H-1B program financially feasible only for high-value roles, effectively sidelining many junior and mid-level workers. While the administration has not yet clarified if the new $100,000 fee will be charged upfront or annually, officials anticipate a significant decline in application volumes.

Notably, visa quotas remain unchanged, with 65,000 regular H-1B visa spots and 20,000 reserved for advanced degree holders. However, the soaring costs raise questions about how many employers will continue to utilize the program.

—

### Business and Industry Effects

India remains the largest beneficiary of H-1B visas, accounting for 71% of approvals last year. The fee hike is likely to impact major IT firms such as Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Wipro, which send numerous junior and mid-level engineers to the US for ongoing projects.

Leading companies by number of H-1B visa holders include:

– Amazon: 10,044
– TCS: 5,505
– Microsoft: 5,189
– Meta: 5,123
– Apple: 4,202
– Google: 4,181
– Deloitte: 2,353
– Infosys: 2,004
– Wipro: 1,523
– Tech Mahindra Americas: 951

The increased fees could disrupt talent pipelines and project deliveries, especially for companies relying on cost-effective international talent.

—

### Opposition and Criticism

The policy has drawn sharp criticism from US lawmakers and immigration advocates. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi condemned the move as “reckless,” warning that it could cut the US off from vital high-skilled talent essential for innovation and job creation.

Ajay Bhutoria, former advisor to President Joe Biden, expressed concerns that the fee hike could “crush small businesses and start-ups reliant on diverse talent,” pushing skilled workers to seek opportunities in Canada or Europe. This shift could significantly weaken America’s competitive edge in the global economy.

—

### Conclusion

The Trump administration’s dramatic increase in H-1B visa fees poses serious challenges to various sectors, with the healthcare system and technology firms standing to be hit hardest. As visa costs surge, the future of international talent participation in the US workforce hangs in the balance, raising critical questions about the nation’s ability to maintain its leadership in innovation and quality healthcare delivery.

—

*Stay tuned for more updates on immigration policies and their impact on the US economy.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/us-healthcare-braces-for-impact-as-trump-hikes-h-1b-fee/story

VIDEO: Villagers Perform Funeral Of Their Beloved Dog With All Rituals, Shave Their Heads In MP’s Chhatarpur

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

**Family Performs Last Rites for Beloved Dog ‘Tilakdhari’ in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh**

In a heartwarming display of love and devotion, a family in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district performed the last rites for their pet dog, ‘Tilakdhari,’ following all the traditional rituals typically reserved for human cremations.

The touching incident took place in Pipat village of the Rajnagar area. Ram Sanjeevan Pateria, also known as Saddu Maharaj, along with his family, organized the funeral after Tilakdhari passed away on Friday. The family observed all customary rituals—they shaved their heads, carried a pot of fire, and walked to the cremation ground chanting the sacred phrase “Ram Naam Satya Hai.” Villagers who attended the ceremony also participated in traditional practices, including taking a ritual bath.

### An Emotional Bond

Pateria shared the poignant story behind their special bond with Tilakdhari. Years ago, a stray dog started following him home. He took her in and named her Ramkali. Ramkali quickly became well-known and beloved in the village, affectionately called “Masi” by the children.

Ramkali later gave birth to several puppies, but only one survived—a puppy who had a distinctive natural mark resembling a tilak on his forehead. The family named him ‘Tilakdhari.’

“I raised him like my own child. When he was born, I even organized a grand celebration in the village,” Pateria recalled.

After many years spent with the family, Tilakdhari grew old and passed away peacefully.

### Plans for Final Rituals and Feast

The family plans to carry Tilakdhari’s ashes to the Ganga River in Prayagraj (Allahabad) to perform the Terahvi, a 13th-day Hindu ritual honoring the deceased.

On this occasion, they intend to host a special feast that will include not only people but also all animals in the village—dogs, cats, cows, and birds alike—sharing their love and respect for all species.

This remarkable story stands as a beautiful testament to the deep affection and respect that can exist between humans and their animal companions.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/video-villagers-perform-funeral-of-their-beloved-dog-with-all-rituals-shave-their-heads-in-mps-chhatarpur

India’s Largest National STEM Quiz 4.0 Launched With ₹2 Crore Prize Pool For Students

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

Gandhinagar: The Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), on Friday launched the country’s largest National STEM Quiz 4.0, offering prizes worth up to Rs 2 crore for winning students.

**About The National STEM Quiz 4.0**

Unveiling the quiz, DST Secretary P. Bharti said the initiative — titled “National STEM Quiz 4.0: A New Journey for a New Generation” — aims to nurture curiosity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills among school students.

In addition to cash rewards, winners will get the opportunity to visit premier scientific institutions such as BARC-Mumbai, DRDO, SAC-ISRO, and NFSU-Gandhinagar. They will also participate in an exclusive STEM boot camp designed for the top 200 students.

The quiz will be held in two categories — Junior (Class 9–10) and Senior (Class 11–12). Students across India, from all boards and mediums, can register free of cost at [www.stemquiz.gujarat.gov.in](http://www.stemquiz.gujarat.gov.in/) until October 30, 2025.

Speaking at the launch, GUJCOST Advisor and Member Secretary Narottam Sahu highlighted that since 2022, the STEM Quiz has grown into a national platform. Last year’s third edition saw over 10.12 lakh registrations from students across states and boards.

“This year, we are targeting participation from more than 20 lakh students across India,” he added.

As part of the launch, dignitaries also released a Quiz Bank book for junior and senior levels.

The event was attended by GSBTM Mission Director Digvijaysinh Jadeja, GSEM Mission Director Neha Kumari, Dr. Vijay Patel from GCERT, and representatives from regional and district science centres, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, and CBSE schools, with students joining virtually from across the country.

**The Significance of STEM in India**

STEM — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — is at the heart of India’s growth story. It drives advancements in space exploration, digital innovation, renewable energy, and healthcare.

With a young population and one of the largest pools of engineers and scientists in the world, India relies on STEM to fuel its economic competitiveness, create jobs of the future, and address pressing challenges like climate change, food security, and sustainable urbanisation.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/indias-largest-national-stem-quiz-40-launched-with-2-crore-prize-pool-for-students

VIDEO: Villagers Perform Funeral Of Their Beloved Dog With All Rituals, Shave Their Heads In MP’s Chhatarpur

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

**Chhatarpur Family Performs Last Rites for Beloved Dog ‘Tilakdhari’ Following Human Cremation Rituals**

In a heartfelt expression of love and affection, a family in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district performed the last rites of their pet dog, Tilakdhari, adhering to all the traditional rituals usually reserved for human cremations. This touching incident took place in Pipat village of the Rajnagar area.

The dog’s owner, Ram Sanjeevan Pateria, also known as Saddu Maharaj, along with his family, organized the funeral after Tilakdhari passed away on Friday. The family observed various customs: they shaved their heads, carried a pot of fire, and walked to the cremation ground chanting “Ram Naam Satya Hai.” The dog was cremated with full traditional rites, and villagers who attended also followed customs, including taking a ritual bath.

### A Deep Emotional Bond

Pateria shared the emotional story behind this unique ceremony. Years ago, a stray dog began following him home. He took her in and named her Ramkali. Over time, Ramkali became a beloved figure in the village, affectionately called “Masi” by the local children.

Ramkali gave birth to several puppies, but only one survived — a pup with a natural mark resembling a tilak on his forehead. This puppy was named ‘Tilakdhari.’ “I raised him like my own child. When he was born, I even organized a grand celebration in the village,” Pateria recalled.

Tilakdhari lived many years with the family and passed away peacefully, leaving behind cherished memories.

### Plans for a Special Ceremonial Feast

The family plans to take Tilakdhari’s ashes to the Ganga River in Prayagraj (Allahabad) to perform the Terahvi, a traditional 13th-day Hindu ritual. On that day, they will also host a special feast—not only for people but for all animals in the village, including dogs, cats, cows, and birds.

This touching gesture highlights the profound bond between humans and their animal companions and reflects deep cultural respect and love for all living beings.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/video-villagers-perform-funeral-of-their-beloved-dog-with-all-rituals-shave-their-heads-in-mps-chhatarpur

India’s Largest National STEM Quiz 4.0 Launched With ₹2 Crore Prize Pool For Students

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

### About The National STEM Quiz 4.0

The quiz will be held in two categories: Junior (Class 9–10) and Senior (Class 11–12). Students across India, from all boards and mediums, can register free of cost at [www.stemquiz.gujarat.gov.in](http://www.stemquiz.gujarat.gov.in) until October 30, 2025.

### Growing Nationwide Participation

“This year, we are targeting participation from more than 20 lakh students across India,” he added.

As part of the launch, dignitaries also released a Quiz Bank book for junior and senior levels.

### Event and Participants

The event was attended by GSBTM Mission Director Digvijaysinh Jadeja, GSEM Mission Director Neha Kumari, Dr. Vijay Patel from GCERT, and representatives from regional and district science centres, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, and CBSE schools. Students joined virtually from across the country.

### Importance of STEM in India’s Growth

STEM — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — is at the heart of India’s growth story, driving everything from space exploration and digital innovation to renewable energy and healthcare.

—

Hezbollah urges Saudi Arabia to reconcile, unite against Israel amid strikes

Posted on 20/09/2025 by admin

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem has urged Saudi Arabia to pursue reconciliation and unite against Israel amid escalating strikes in southern Lebanon.

Qassem called on Riyadh to open a new page of relations with Hezbollah, emphasizing that the group’s arms are directed solely at Israel.

His appeal comes as Israel’s raids continue to kill civilians, despite existing ceasefire terms.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/hezbollah-urges-saudi-arabia-to-reconcile-and-unite-against-israel-amid-lebanon-strikes-23594940