US Democratic lawmakers urge Meta, Google to end ICE ad partnerships

IANS | January 23, 2026 8:21 AM

Washington, Jan 23 (IANS) Two senior Democratic lawmakers, including Indian American Pramila Jayapal, have pressed Meta and Google to end their digital advertising partnerships with the US Department of Homeland Security, alleging that Immigration and Customs Enforcement has used the companies’ platforms to run recruitment and “self-deportation” advertisements drawing on white nationalist imagery and rhetoric.

US expands Mexico City Policy on foreign aid

IANS | January 23, 2026 8:09 AM

Washington, Jan 23 (IANS) The US State Department is set to finalize an expanded version of the Mexico City Policy on Friday, sharply widening restrictions on how American foreign assistance can be used overseas.

Ramayana exhibit draws Maryland lawmakers

IANS | January 23, 2026 8:05 AM

Annapolis, Jan 23 (IANS) A one-day exhibition on the Ramayana’s spread across Asia and beyond was held at the Maryland State Assembly Building, drawing state lawmakers, diplomats, and community leaders to the Annapolis complex.