Category: USA

Why Columbia University is called “Columbia University”

BinduLeave a comment
Wondering about Colombia country, I was thinking why do we have Columbia University, Washington District of Columbia in USA. How is it related… So here is what I found.

1. It started as “King’s College” (1754)

  • Founded in 1754 in New York City, when the area was still under British rule.
  • It was established by King George II of England, so it was named King’s College.
  • It was the fifth-oldest college in the U.S. (after Harvard, William & Mary, Yale, and Princeton).

2. After the American Revolution, “King’s College” didn’t sound so good

  • When the U.S. gained independence in 1776, people no longer wanted anything with “King” in the name.
  • The college closed temporarily during the war and later reopened with a new, patriotic identity.

3. “Columbia” = poetic name for America

  • In the 1700s and 1800s, “Columbia” was a poetic or symbolic name for the United States.
  • It comes from the name Christopher Columbus, the explorer often credited with “discovering” the Americas.
  • So “Columbia” meant “Land of Columbus” — and represented freedom and the new nation.

4. Renamed Columbia College (1784) → Columbia University (1896)

  • In 1784, after independence, it was renamed Columbia College to honor the new nation.
  • Later, as it grew into a major research institution with multiple schools (law, medicine, etc.), it officially became Columbia University in 1896.

5. Today

  • Columbia University in the City of New York is one of the Ivy League universities.
  • It is famous for:
    • Nobel Prize winners
    • Pulitzer Prize administration
    • Core Curriculum
    • Alumni like Barack Obama and Alexander Hamilton

Indians Joining Foreign Armies: A Rising Concern and Its Implications

BinduLeave a comment

Introduction

The recent revelation by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) that at least 126 Indian citizens have joined the Russian army to participate in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has sparked significant debate. This phenomenon raises serious legal, ethical, and diplomatic questions, especially given India’s neutral stance on the conflict. This article explores the motivations behind such decisions, the legal ramifications, and the broader geopolitical consequences.

Motivations Behind Joining Foreign Armies

  1. Economic Incentives:
    • Many individuals who enlist in foreign militaries are driven by economic hardship and the promise of financial stability. Foreign armies, particularly during active conflicts, often offer attractive compensation packages to volunteers.
  2. Ideological Alignment:
    • Some individuals may feel a deep personal connection or ideological alignment with one side in the conflict. For instance, they may perceive the conflict as a moral or cultural cause worth supporting.
  3. Recruitment Networks:
    • Reports suggest that online platforms and social media are increasingly being used to recruit foreign nationals for military service. These channels often target vulnerable individuals through propaganda and false promises.
  4. Adventure and Prestige:
    • For some, joining a foreign military represents an opportunity for adventure, recognition, or prestige that may not be achievable in their home country.

Legal Implications

  1. Violation of the Foreign Enlistment Act (1870):
    • Indian law prohibits citizens from serving in foreign militaries without government authorization. Violators may face prosecution, fines, and imprisonment upon returning to India.
  2. International Legal Concerns:
    • Participation in conflicts could place individuals at risk of violating international humanitarian laws, particularly if they become involved in war crimes or activities targeting civilians.
  3. Citizenship Risks:
    • Serving in a foreign military might jeopardize the citizenship status of individuals, depending on the laws of their home country and the host nation.

Diplomatic and Geopolitical Consequences

  1. India’s Neutrality Compromised:
    • India has maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, advocating for diplomacy and dialogue. The involvement of Indian nationals in the conflict could undermine this neutrality and strain relations with Ukraine and its allies.
  2. Strained Relations with Western Nations:
    • Western countries and organizations like NATO may perceive the participation of Indian citizens in Russia’s military as indirect support for Moscow, potentially leading to diplomatic pressures on New Delhi.
  3. Impact on Bilateral Ties:
    • Ukraine, which has historically had positive relations with India, could view the actions of these individuals as hostile, affecting bilateral trade, cooperation, and goodwill.

Government’s Preventive Measures

  1. Public Awareness Campaigns:
    • The Indian government has issued advisories warning citizens against enlisting in foreign militaries and highlighting the legal consequences.
  2. Monitoring Recruitment Channels:
    • Intelligence agencies and cybercrime units are actively working to identify and dismantle online recruitment networks operating within India.
  3. Rehabilitation and Reintegration:
    • For individuals who return, the government may consider programs for legal oversight, counseling, and community reintegration to prevent recidivism and ensure national security.

Ethical and Social Challenges

  1. Impact on Families:
    • Families of individuals who join foreign militaries often face significant stigma, emotional distress, and financial burdens.
  2. Polarized Public Opinion:
    • Public perceptions of these individuals can vary widely. While some may view them as adventurers or ideologically driven, others see them as lawbreakers undermining India’s international image.

Broader Context and Global Trends

  1. The Foreign Fighter Phenomenon:
    • The recruitment of foreign nationals is not unique to this conflict. Similar trends have been observed in the Syrian Civil War, the fight against ISIS, and other international conflicts.
  2. Global Recruitment Networks:
    • Recruitment for foreign conflicts often relies on social media, targeted propaganda, and financial incentives, making it a complex issue to address globally.

Conclusion

The involvement of Indian nationals in foreign conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war underscores the need for robust legal frameworks, effective government intervention, and international cooperation to address this issue. While individual motivations may vary, their actions carry far-reaching implications for India’s legal, diplomatic, and social landscape.

As the global community grapples with the challenges posed by foreign fighters, India must remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding its neutrality and international standing.

Events in NJ

BinduLeave a comment

Mount Holly
Mount Holly comes alive with annual Fire & Ice Festival on January 25, 2025. It combines two popular traditions: Mount Holly’s Ice Carving Festival & the legendary annual Chili Contest. It’s a free, family-oriented event from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

10 Cultural Habits That Might Surprise You: What’s Offensive in the U.S. But Normal in India

BinduLeave a comment

1. Directness and Honesty

  • In the U.S., being overly direct or blunt, especially when expressing negative opinions, can be considered rude or offensive. In India, people are often more indirect in communication, and being too blunt may not be as common, but being direct is generally not seen as offensive in the same way it might be in the U.S.

2. Pointing at People

  • Pointing directly at someone (whether with your finger or hand) can be considered impolite or offensive in the U.S. However, in India, it’s often seen as a casual gesture, especially when people are referring to something or someone in a crowd. It’s not always considered impolite in India.

3. Staring

  • In the U.S., staring at people can be seen as intrusive and rude. In India, however, especially in rural areas or among foreigners, people may glance or stare without it being seen as offensive. It’s a common, albeit culturally different, behavior.

4. Personal Questions

  • Asking personal questions about someone’s age, marital status, or income might be considered inappropriate or intrusive in the U.S. However, in India, such questions are often seen as part of regular conversation and are typically not seen as invasive or rude.

5. Respect for Elders

  • In India, it’s normal for younger people to touch the feet of elders as a sign of respect. This practice may seem odd or overly formal in the U.S. but is a deeply ingrained tradition in India, and it might not be understood or appreciated in the same way in the U.S.

6. Public Spitting

  • Spitting in public is generally viewed as offensive and unsanitary in the U.S. In India, especially in certain regions, public spitting (such as from chewing paan or betel) is still common, though it’s increasingly frowned upon in urban areas.

7. Chewing Gum Loudly

  • In the U.S., chewing gum loudly or popping it in public is often seen as impolite or childish. In India, it’s not uncommon to see people chewing gum in public, though it may be seen as a more casual or youthful behavior.

8. Informality in Addressing Elders or Strangers

  • In the U.S., it’s common to address even older individuals or authority figures by their first names, whether in casual or professional settings. This level of informality is widely accepted and not seen as disrespectful. In India, however, calling strangers, neighbors, or even older individuals by titles like “Aunty” or “Uncle” is a sign of respect, and using such terms for people you don’t know well in the U.S. might be considered overly familiar or inappropriate.

9. Touching Someone’s Head

  • In India, it is considered a sign of affection or respect to gently touch a child’s head. In the U.S., this gesture is often seen as intrusive or inappropriate, especially when it’s done by someone who isn’t close to the person.

10. Eating With Hands

  • In the U.S., eating with hands (except for certain foods like sandwiches or pizza) is generally considered unhygienic and impolite. In India, eating with hands, especially in traditional meals, is perfectly normal, and it’s often seen as a more intimate and respectful way to eat, especially with certain cultural and religious practices.

Process for getting Overseas Citizen of India visa for NRI Kids

BinduLeave a comment

In India, the process for obtaining permanent residency is called the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme. The OCI scheme provides foreign nationals of Indian origin with the right to live and work in India without the need for a visa.

To be eligible for the OCI scheme, the applicant must meet the following criteria:

  1. The applicant must be a foreign national of Indian origin or a spouse of a foreign national of Indian origin.
  2. The applicant must have held an Indian passport at any time, or their parent or grandparent must have been a citizen of India.
  3. The applicant must not be a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh.

To apply for OCI, the applicant must follow these steps:

  1. Submit an online application: The applicant must submit an online application through the OCI website and upload all required documents.
  2. Pay the fee: The applicant must pay the fee for OCI application processing.
  3. Submit the application: After completing the online application and paying the fee, the applicant must submit the application to the designated office.
  4. Provide biometrics: The applicant must provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs, at the designated office.
  5. Wait for processing: The application processing time for OCI is generally 4-6 weeks, but it may vary depending on the Indian embassy or consulate where the application is submitted.

Once the OCI application is approved, the applicant will receive an OCI card, which serves as proof of their permanent residency status in India. The OCI card is valid for the lifetime of the holder and provides many of the same rights and privileges as Indian citizens, except for the right to vote, hold public office, and purchase agricultural land.

Getting back to work after a long gap in Career

BinduLeave a comment

Dear friends,

Most of us face this situation whether we like it or not. If you are in the same boat, don’t feel defeated. You can always get back to work no matter what was the reason for your break. Also you need not feel guilty for taking the break, whether it was to take care of your kids, or you were on H4 visa in USA, or ill health, or had to take care of your parents, all is for good reason. So do not worry about it.

Now getting back to work can look challenging. You might feel the world has changed so much in past few years. But here is also a good news, world has changed for good when it comes to people who have long career breaks. After covid, not many people are really keen on knowing where you worked, how much salary you got, they want to to know what do you know now, what can you bring to table. Most works are online these days so they do not worry much about your age, location and other demographic details. You can also find flexible hours.

This will be my suggestions for you to get back to work

  • Make a note of your skills and intersts.
  • Check if you can find any volunteering opportunities in that field. Volunteering experience adds to your resume and you get used to working in organizations with different people. It will be easier to get volunteering opportunities than finding a job. Sometimes the organisation where you volunteer can offer you a job.
  • upskill yourself using various free courses available these days. some of them are
    • Coursera: Coursera offers free courses from top universities and institutions around the world. They cover a wide range of subjects, including business, computer science, data science, and more.
    • edX: edX is another popular platform that offers free online courses from top universities and institutions. They offer a wide range of courses in fields such as engineering, computer science, and humanities.
    • Khan Academy: Khan Academy is a non-profit organization that provides free online courses in math, science, and other subjects. Their courses are designed for students of all ages and levels.
    • Codecademy: Codecademy is a platform that offers free coding courses in various programming languages, including Python, Java, and HTML/CSS.
    • Udemy: Udemy offers both paid and free courses in a wide range of subjects, including business, technology, and creative arts. Their free courses are usually shorter and cover more basic concepts.
    • Google Digital Garage: Google Digital Garage offers free courses in digital marketing, data analytics, and other digital skills. The courses are designed to help individuals and businesses improve their online presence.
  • Linkedin – Create a profile in Linkedin or make use of the Linkedin profile you already have. Search for job, see which contact can refer you to that job.
    • Build your network by adding people whom you already know.
    • sign up for free trial of linkedin Premium and complete relevant courses in linkedin learning. showcase those courses in your profile.
    • Be active in Linkedin by writing posts, or liking and sharing posts from your area of interest.
    • search for remote work, volunteering and other jobs of your interest.
    • contact small companies directly by going to their website and sending your cv.
  • Improve you resume with key words and key achievements highlighted. Send them to as many places as possible.
  • Attend workshops and Webinars as much as possible in in the field of your interest. You can find them online by searching in google, watching relevant videos in youtube, in places like meetup.com etc.
  • If you are living in USA – actively look for postings in relevant groups in Network of Indians in America.

Hope this helps, feel free to put your comments and questions.

International Courier – Telangana

BinduLeave a comment

I am happy that we have an International Couriers in Medchal Telangana. Some of the pro’s and con’s

Pro’s

  1. They come to your home collect things.
  2. They are available on phone / whatsapp
  3. They charge reasonable amount

Con’s

  1. They say they will pack in front of you, but they did not pack in front of me.
  2. The staff who came to my house were not knowledgeable enough to understand what is allowed and not allowed in the package.
  3. They told me I can send lighting balloons and took it along with the greeting card, but only greeting card was sent, and I did not get back the lighting balloons.
  4. They said it will reach in a week, but later said we said it will reach in 6 working days. My card was supposed to reach before Christmas but it reached few days later.

Before you decide to Volunteer

BinduLeave a comment

Its more than five years since I moved to America and I have volunteered at various organizations. Even though I have done various roles as a volunteer, most of it was and is teaching. There are some lessons I have learnt during this period. You might as well ask what is there to think before we volunteer? We all volunteer for a good cause and nothing should hold us back. But there are some factors which you better consider before jumping to volunteering for any organization or project.

First and foremost, we need to understand why do I want to volunteer for this project or organization? Do I understand the goals and purpose of the organization and are my values and visions in line with that of decision makers of the organization? It might be better idea to discuss with the decision makers what are the future goals of the organization. How is it going to operate in the long run? Are the rules and regulations which are true for today are going to continue for tomorrow also?

For example, I volunteered as teacher at one organization which was conducting free classes for all students interested. I had the freedom to follow my teaching methodologies, classes were free for students, I was not paid as I was a volunteer. Once in a while both teachers and students would get a mail requesting for donation for the organization which was optional. They could donate as minimum amount as they wanted or not pay at all. No one would come to know who paid or who did not pay. This is something which was in line with my idea of teaching for free.

Then there was another organization which is also a not for profit organization and I volunteered to teach there as it was open to anyone who wanted to learn the language. But there something which started as free started asking for a registration fee in the next year. Then they also made it compulsory to become members of the organization which of course was paid. So, this will put the parents who would have enrolled their kids thinking it as free into a dilemma. Also, for volunteers who started volunteering for it because it was a free course. Then quitting such projects is also hard because of the friends the students or volunteers will have. It does not matter what ever minimum amount they are charging because in the first place they attracted students and volunteers by calling it a free course.

Then there was another organization which also conducted free classes then started asking for donations for some religious institutions it supported. Here again its okay to ask for donations, but sometimes the donations become compulsory like it happens in most of the private schools in India. They make list of parents who paid and those who did not pay and then circulate it in their respective groups. Here also we get a question should I be part of it?

I have been attending another class as a student for more than two years now. The teacher never asked for any fees or donation. Even though he is a part of an organization where he learnt the skill he is teaching. I am glad we still have such teachers and want to support such teachers or volunteers and want to be one like them.

As a result, I started my own language classes which are free for everyone. It will always be free.

So, lesson learnt yes, even for volunteering you need to check is it in line with my values and my ethics?