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

**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

**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

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

**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

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.

### Growing Nationwide Participation

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.

### 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.

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

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

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

Using sunscreen daily could affect vitamin D levels

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that using SPF50+ sunscreen every day—on all days when the ultraviolet (UV) index is forecast to reach three or more—can increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency.

However, these findings do not suggest that people should abandon the use of SPF50+ sunscreen. Instead, individuals who use high-SPF sunscreen daily might need to consider taking vitamin D supplements to maintain adequate levels.

Previous studies have shown that using low SPF sunscreen daily did not cause vitamin D deficiency. Yet, until now, no research had assessed the effects of routinely using high SPF sunscreens in everyday life.

*Disclaimer:*
This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content without notice for any reason whatsoever.

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https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/using-sunscreen-daily-could-affect-vitamin-d-levels-23594922

Donald Trump says China`s President Xi Jinping approved Tik Tok deal

Former US President Donald Trump recently stated that the United States will have “tight control” over the popular app TikTok, describing the arrangement as a “very good deal” for Washington.

“We are going to have very tight control. It is an amazing thing that has been created. I am a little prejudiced because I frankly did so well on it. It got me numbers that nobody has ever even heard before,” Trump said. He added that the app is highly sought after by young Americans and their parents alike.

Trump also highlighted the positive relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying, “So we were able to work out a deal with China. It’s a very good deal for us. I hope it’s a good deal for them. These are American investors. They are very famous people financially. They’ll have control of it. I want to thank President Xi because he was a gentleman. We just had a good relationship.”

The remarks came after a telephonic conversation between Trump and President Xi Jinping, during which they discussed various issues, including TikTok. The app faces the threat of a ban in the US following legislation passed by the Biden administration mandating that TikTok divest its ownership from the Chinese internet company ByteDance.

In response to the talks, ByteDance released a statement expressing gratitude to both leaders and affirming its commitment to complying with Chinese law to ensure TikTok continues operating in the US. The statement read:

“We thank President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump for their attention to TikTok. ByteDance will advance related work in accordance with the requirements of Chinese law, allowing TikTok U.S. to continue serving American users well.”

The legislation, passed in April 2024, aims to ban TikTok in the US starting January 19, 2025. However, the government has not yet enforced the ban as it negotiates a deal with China.

According to reports by The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, citing sources familiar with the discussions, the proposed agreement would grant a group of American investors control of 80% of TikTok, while the remaining 20% would remain with Chinese firms including ByteDance.

This development reflects ongoing efforts by the US to secure greater control over the platform amid national security concerns.

*Note: This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day does not accept responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy 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/world-news/article/donald-trump-says-chinas-president-xi-jinping-approved-tik-tok-deal-23594932

Lakshya Performs ‘Heimlich Maneuver’ On Actress Sahher Bambba In Ba***ds Of Bollywood: What Is This First-Aid Method For Choking?

Aryan Khan’s directorial debut *Ba***ds Of Bollywood* is making waves not only for its bold storytelling but also for spotlighting real-life health lessons. In one memorable scene, actors Raghav Juyal, Lakshya, and Sahher Bambba are dining at a restaurant when Sahher suddenly chokes on a fish bone.

As panic sets in, Raghav instructs Lakshya to “thump her back,” prompting him to perform the Heimlich maneuver — a first-aid technique that ultimately saves her life.

### What is the Heimlich Maneuver?

The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is a first-aid method designed to help someone who is choking. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it was invented in 1974 by Dr. Henry Heimlich, who discovered that using the air trapped inside a person’s lungs could forcefully expel a foreign object blocking their airway.

This simple yet powerful technique has saved countless lives since its inception. It is recommended for use on conscious adults and children who cannot breathe or speak due to choking.

### How Does It Work?

Scientific reports explain that the Heimlich maneuver involves quick, upward abdominal thrusts that compress the diaphragm. This action pushes air out of the lungs with enough force to dislodge the obstruction.

Initially, the medical community was hesitant to adopt the technique, favoring back blows instead. However, over time, the Heimlich maneuver became the standard first-aid method for choking emergencies. If the person becomes unconscious, CPR is then recommended.

### How to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver

If you encounter someone who is choking, follow these steps:

1. Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
2. Form a fist with one hand and place it just above their navel, below the ribcage.
3. Grip the fist with your other hand.
4. Deliver sharp, upward thrusts into their abdomen.
5. Repeat the thrusts until the object is expelled or the person becomes unconscious.

If the individual loses consciousness, immediately begin CPR and call for medical help.

**Disclaimer:** This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any concerns or questions regarding your health or medical condition.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/lakshya-performs-heimlich-maneuver-on-actress-sahher-bambba-in-bads-of-bollywood-what-is-this-first-aid-method-for-choking