Govt to expand pension coverage via ‘Pension Sakhis’ in rural India

IANS | September 15, 2026 9:17 AM

New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) In a bid to expand pension coverage and strengthen social security among rural households through a dedicated cadre of ‘Pension Sakhis’, the Department of Rural Development (DoRD) and the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), an official statement said on Tuesday.

US judge blocks four-year student visa cap

IANS | September 15, 2026 8:43 AM

Washington, Sep 15 (IANS) A US federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s four-year limit on international student visas, offering relief to foreign students and researchers, including thousands from India.

US bets $450 million on easing China tungsten reliance

IANS | September 15, 2026 8:37 AM

Washington, Sep 15 (IANS) The Pentagon has announced a $450 million investment in an American metals company to expand tungsten production and reduce dependence on Chinese supplies of a material used in missiles, fighter aircraft and submarines.

Trump urged to seek Panchen Lama’s release

IANS | September 15, 2026 8:29 AM

Washington, Sep 15 (IANS) A US religious freedom commission has urged President Donald Trump to seek the release of the Panchen Lama and other prisoners during his planned summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, placing their cases before the leaders’ next meeting.