USA Town Talks

Dev Pragad, the CEO of the prestigious American news magazine Newsweek, has become a beacon of inspiration for the Indian diaspora. Known for his admiration of the hardworking and resilient nature of Indian-origin individuals, Pragad believes these qualities are vital to their success in the West. During a recent visit to India, he was honored as the Guest of Honour at the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Odisha, celebrating the achievements of the Indian diaspora.

In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Dev Pragad shared his views on the challenges faced by Indian Americans, the transformation of the media landscape, and India's pivotal role in shaping global narratives.

The Success of Indian-Origin Professionals Born in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, and raised in the UK, Dev Pragad has firsthand experience of the perseverance and innovation that define the Indian diaspora. Reflecting on the evolving landscape for Indian-Americans, he noted, “20 years ago, it was far harder for Indian-Americans to gain recognition. Today, through sheer talent, hard work, and innovation, they’ve changed the narrative.”

Pragad highlighted the role of early pioneers in industries like technology and business, who paved the way for successive generations. According to him, growing up in India's unique environment—a blend of order and chaos—equipped individuals with the ability to navigate complex and uncertain situations, a crucial skill for leadership.

Pragad also emphasized the natural aptitude of Indian-origin leaders in people management. Their focus on execution and results, rather than self-promotion, has significantly contributed to their prominence in the West.

Challenges Faced by Indian-Americans Despite significant progress, Dev Pragad acknowledged that challenges persist. While the Indian-American community has achieved remarkable success in industries like technology, their representation in sectors such as media remains limited. Pragad noted, “The media industry has few Indian-American leaders, particularly in decision-making roles, which can sometimes skew narratives about India.”

This underrepresentation, he believes, underscores the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in leadership roles across industries.

India's Growing Global Influence Dev Pragad celebrated India’s increasing influence on the global stage. He pointed out that Indian-origin professionals, whether CEOs, scientists, or doctors, have made substantial contributions to global progress. “We often highlight CEOs, but let’s not forget the immense contributions of scientists, doctors, and academics from India,” he said.

Pragad emphasized that India’s democratic values and economic growth are pivotal to its success. Comparing India to the United States, he noted their shared commitment to democracy and their roles as stabilizing forces in global geopolitics.

The Media Landscape and Trust in Journalism As the CEO of Newsweek, Dev Pragad is deeply engaged with the challenges posed by the rapidly evolving media landscape. He highlighted the rise of AI-generated content and the growing threat of misinformation. However, he affirmed Newsweek’s commitment to delivering transparent and fact-checked journalism. “We aim to be trustworthy, more than just trusted,” Pragad explained.

Under his leadership, Newsweek has embraced diversity and broadened its appeal by engaging readers across the political spectrum. With millions of daily readers and an expanding global reach through platforms like Apple News, the magazine remains committed to credible and unbiased reporting.

A Legacy of Inspiration Dev Pragad's journey from Coimbatore to leading one of the world’s most respected media brands exemplifies resilience, intelligence, and dedication. His reflections on the Indian diaspora's success and India’s rise as a global leader offer inspiration to young Indians worldwide.

Coldplay has thrilled fans in India with a special announcement: their Ahmedabad concert on January 26 will be streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar.

In a video posted on Instagram, lead vocalist Chris Martin shared the exciting news: “Namaste to all our friends in India. On the 26th of January, our show from Ahmedabad will stream live on Disney+ Hotstar. We hope you can join us from wherever you are. Much love.”

Coldplay’s India Tour Highlights The UK band kicked off their India tour in Mumbai with performances at DY Patil Sports Stadium on January 18, 19, and 21, featuring opening acts by Shone, Elyanna, and Jasleen Royal. Their final India shows will take place at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on January 25 and 26.

The India tour, organized by BookMyShow Live, precedes Coldplay’s upcoming performances in Hong Kong and South Korea this April.

Special Travel Arrangements for Fans To accommodate fans traveling to Ahmedabad, Western Railway is running two special trains between Mumbai and Ahmedabad on January 25 and 26. These "winter specials" aim to manage the high demand caused by skyrocketing airfares and full trains.

The special trains will depart Bandra Terminus at 6:15 AM and arrive in Ahmedabad by the afternoon. Return journeys are scheduled overnight to ensure fans can attend the concerts without hassle.

Coldplay’s lineup includes Chris Martin (vocals/piano), Jonny Buckland (guitar), Guy Berryman (bass), Will Champion (drums), and Phil Harvey (manager).

Former central banker Mark Carney has officially announced his candidacy for the leadership of Canada’s Liberal Party, positioning himself as a key contender to succeed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Carney, a former Governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, made the announcement in Edmonton, the city where he grew up. In a statement on X, he declared, “I’m in,” emphasizing his commitment to Canada’s future.

“Canada is the best country in the world, but it can be even better,” Carney said. Criticizing the Trudeau administration, he added, “The system is not working as it should, and it’s not working as it could. The economy has been neglected for too long.”

Campaign Focus: Economic Revival and Leadership Experience Carney cited his extensive experience managing crises such as the 2008 global financial meltdown and Brexit as evidence of his ability to steer Canada through economic challenges. “I’m completely focused on getting our economy back on track,” he pledged.

The former banker highlighted his international credentials, including his tenure as the UN Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance. “I’ve stepped down from all my other roles—I'm fully committed to Canada,” he stated.

A Rivalry with Freeland? Carney’s entry into the race comes as Chrystia Freeland, Trudeau’s former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, is widely expected to announce her own bid for the leadership. Freeland’s resignation in December reportedly followed Trudeau’s overtures to Carney, reflecting a deepening divide within the Liberal Party.

Canadian media reports suggest Freeland may officially launch her campaign later this week, setting the stage for a potentially fierce contest between the two high-profile candidates.

Liberal Leadership Race Timeline The leadership race was triggered by Trudeau’s decision earlier this month to step down. The new leader will be chosen by March 9, leaving just weeks to prepare for the next session of Parliament, which resumes on March 24.

Trailing the Conservative Party by at least 20 points in recent polls, the Liberals face an uphill battle. Carney acknowledged the challenge but criticized Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, calling him a “lifelong politician” unsuited for the current economic and political climate.

In a dramatic turn, outgoing President Joe Biden has left the fate of TikTok in the hands of incoming President Donald Trump, just days before his inauguration. The controversial ban on the Chinese-owned social media platform, set to take effect Monday, has been postponed by Biden, shifting the focus to Trump’s decision-making.

TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, was mandated by Congress last year to divest the app by January 19, a deadline looming on the eve of Trump’s inauguration. While Biden signed the law, his administration opted not to enforce the ban, leaving Trump to determine TikTok's future.

Trump Signals Potential TikTok Lifeline President-elect Trump, once a vocal critic of TikTok, has since embraced the platform during his 2024 campaign, using it to connect with younger voters. National Security Adviser-designate Mike Waltz hinted on Thursday that Trump’s administration could extend the divestment deadline if a feasible deal emerges.

“We’re committed to safeguarding Americans' data while preserving a platform that has become a vital tool for millions,” Waltz said during a Fox News interview.

Meanwhile, Senate debates have underscored the app's divisive impact. Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer urged an extension to protect TikTok’s American user base, while Republican Senator Tom Cotton doubled down on the app as a "national security threat."

TikTok CEO and Tech Leaders to Attend Inauguration TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, alongside tech industry leaders Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Sam Altman, and Jeff Bezos. Sources suggest this high-profile presence signals the administration’s willingness to explore solutions to avoid TikTok’s shutdown.

Trump’s stance on TikTok has evolved, transforming from a previous attempt to ban it to leveraging the platform for outreach and campaigning. Analysts suggest the president-elect’s decision could redefine the U.S.-China tech rivalry and set a precedent for how social media platforms operate in the U.S.

Supreme Court Ruling Looms Adding another layer of uncertainty, the Supreme Court recently heard arguments on TikTok’s legal challenge to the divestment law. Justices are expected to uphold the statute, potentially complicating Trump’s efforts to broker a deal.

“We’re navigating uncharted waters,” Waltz remarked. “But with President Trump, we’re confident a solution that protects both national security and innovation is within reach.”

Bhubaneswar/New Delhi: Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek, will attend the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention as a Guest of Honour, following a personal invitation from External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The event, scheduled from January 9 to 11, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, is India’s premier platform celebrating the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the nation’s development.

Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention will host prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of India Droupadi Murmu. The event serves as a vital bridge connecting India with its global diaspora.

Dev Pragad’s presence at the convention highlights his remarkable achievements in transforming Newsweek. Since becoming CEO, Pragad has turned the iconic publication into a profitable, multi-platform media organization that reaches over 100 million readers monthly. His leadership has introduced digital innovations such as the Newsweek Rankings, which includes categories like “World’s Best Hospitals” and “Auto Disruptor Awards.”

Under Pragad’s stewardship, Newsweek has also become a platform for high-profile conversations with global leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. His exemplary leadership is studied at Harvard Business School, where his turnaround of Newsweek is featured as a case study in innovation and leadership.

Pragad’s journey from his Indian roots to leading one of the world’s most respected media brands symbolizes the spirit of the Indian diaspora celebrated at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. His presence is expected to inspire meaningful conversations about the diaspora’s role in shaping India’s evolving global narrative.

As Newsweek continues to expand its footprint in India, Pragad’s participation at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention underscores the importance of media and diaspora engagement in fostering stronger ties with India.

Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek and a respected educator, recently returned to Harvard Business School to lead a session with the esteemed Owner/President Management (OPM) cohort. The session centered on Newsweek’s remarkable transformation from a legacy print publication to a cutting-edge digital media powerhouse. Engaging with a group of dynamic, global business leaders, Pragad shared the strategic journey behind the reinvention of Newsweek, exploring both the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating disruption in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Newsweek’s Transformation to Digital Media

During the session, Dev Pragad walked the OPM executives through the significant challenges Newsweek faced in adapting to the fast-changing digital world. He emphasized that the shift from traditional print to digital media was not just necessary but vital for the survival of modern media companies. Pragad shared how Newsweek leveraged technology and data-driven strategies to successfully reinvent itself, growing its digital readership to 100 million monthly users.

The OPM cohort actively participated in discussions, exchanging their own experiences of leading businesses through periods of disruption. Pragad expressed his appreciation for the diverse insights and fresh perspectives brought forward by the executives. The interactive session reinforced his belief in the power of collaborative learning and the invaluable strength of the Harvard Business School network in cultivating leadership and innovation.

Addressing the Challenges of Digital Media

A key focus of the session was the decline of print media and the dominance of digital platforms. Pragad outlined how Newsweek navigated the complexities of this shift, stressing that digital transformation is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process. Continuous adaptation to new technologies is essential for long-term success.

He shared with the OPM cohort that Newsweek’s digital transformation was achieved by embracing innovation, improving user experiences, and leveraging data analytics. The attendees discussed how the lessons learned from Newsweek’s journey could be applied to their own businesses, particularly when facing industry disruptions or significant shifts in consumer behavior.

Conclusion: The Power of Collective Learning

The session concluded with a strong emphasis on the importance of collective learning and the shared responsibility of leaders to foster innovation in a fast-paced world. Dev Pragad underscored that collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning are essential components of leadership, especially in industries undergoing significant transformation.

In today’s digital age, sustainable success requires more than just reacting to change; it requires proactively shaping the future through innovation and strategic vision. This message resonated with the OPM executives, highlighting the importance of embracing new technologies and nurturing a mindset of lifelong learning.

Britain announced on Thursday a significant agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This deal will enable individuals displaced decades ago to return home while allowing London to maintain operational control of the UK-US military base on Diego Garcia.

British Foreign Minister David Lammy stated that the agreement ensures the continued operation of Diego Garcia, a strategically important military base jointly managed with the United States. The deal also paves the way for Mauritius to resettle its population on the islands, which were evacuated years ago.

“This government inherited a situation where the long-term, secure operation of the Diego Garcia military base was under threat due to contested sovereignty and ongoing legal challenges,” Lammy said. “Today’s agreement secures this vital military base for the future and strengthens our role in safeguarding global security, while also shutting down any potential use of the Indian Ocean as a dangerous illegal migration route to the UK.”

Britain has maintained control over the region since 1814, having detached the Chagos Islands from Mauritius in 1965. This move was made to establish the British Indian Ocean Territory, and in the early 1970s, nearly 2,000 residents were forcibly relocated to Mauritius and the Seychelles to facilitate the construction of the airbase.

In 2019, the World Court ruled that Britain should relinquish control of the islands, condemning the forced removal of the population in the 1970s to accommodate the US airbase.

As the US gears up for the presidential election on November 5, the race has taken a surprising turn. Originally a rematch of the 2020 election, President Joe Biden's decision to end his campaign and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris has set the stage for a historic contest. The pivotal question now is whether America will elect its first female president or see Donald Trump secure a second term.

Current Polling Landscape

Since entering the race in late July, Harris has consistently led in national polling averages. Recent data indicates her lead has grown from 2.5 percentage points on the day of the recent debate to approximately 3.3 points in the week following it. The debate, held in Pennsylvania on September 10, drew over 67 million viewers. While Harris's performance helped solidify her lead, Trump's numbers saw a slight dip, decreasing by half a percentage point afterward.

Understanding the Electoral College

Despite these national polls offering a snapshot of each candidate's popularity, they do not provide a complete picture of the election outcome. The US uses an electoral college system where each state has a number of votes relative to its population. With 538 electoral votes at stake, a candidate needs 270 to secure victory. Many states consistently vote for one party, making the battleground or swing states crucial for determining the election winner.

Swing State Dynamics

Currently, polls in key battleground states show a tight race, with only one or two percentage points separating Harris and Trump. Pennsylvania is particularly significant, as it has the highest number of electoral votes among these states. Following Biden's exit, he was trailing Trump by nearly five points in these battlegrounds, highlighting the shifting dynamics since Harris became the Democratic nominee.

Polling trends indicate that Harris has maintained a lead in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin since August. These states, once Democratic strongholds, were lost to Trump in 2016 but returned to the Democratic fold with Biden in 2020. If Harris can reclaim them, her path to victory would become increasingly viable.

Polling Methodology

The polling averages discussed are compiled by 538, a reputable polling analysis site. They aggregate data from various polling firms, applying strict quality control measures to ensure reliability. Only polls that meet transparency criteria regarding sample size, timing, and methodology are included.

Trusting the Polls

While current polls suggest a close race between Harris and Trump in swing states, historical polling inaccuracies—particularly in 2016 and 2020—raise questions about their reliability. Polling companies are actively working to address these challenges, aiming to better reflect the voting population's makeup. However, accurately predicting turnout on November 5 remains a complex task.

On October 7, one year after the devastating Hamas attacks, Israel continues to confront tough questions regarding the deadliest day in its history. The Nahal Oz military base, located near the Gaza border, was swiftly overrun by Hamas gunmen, resulting in the deaths of over 60 Israeli soldiers and several being taken hostage.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have yet to release an official inquiry into the events of that day, but they have briefed families of the deceased, who shared crucial details with the BBC. Survivors' accounts, messages from the fallen, and real-time radio communications shed light on the rapidity and brutality of the invasion.

Key findings indicate:

Soldiers had noticed suspicious activities leading up to the attack, but there was an unexpected lull in Hamas activity days prior.

Many troops at the base were unarmed due to protocols mandating them to stand back during attacks, rather than advance.

Some surveillance equipment was either inoperable or easily destroyed by Hamas.

Questions arise over the lack of armed personnel at such a critical location, the inadequate response to intelligence warnings, delays in reinforcements, and whether the base's infrastructure compromised the safety of its defenders.

In the early morning hours, soldiers at the base observed unusual movements but misinterpreted them as routine. At approximately 6:20 AM, Hamas launched rockets, which did not initially seem alarming due to previous experiences with brief attacks. However, the onslaught escalated quickly.

The IDF's failure to act decisively was attributed to overconfidence in their defenses, which proved vulnerable. Within minutes, breaches in the border fence allowed Hamas fighters to infiltrate Israeli territory. Reports indicate that an observation balloon meant to monitor the area was out of service that day, compounding the vulnerability of the base.

As chaos ensued, soldiers struggled to comprehend the severity of the situation. Despite receiving radio transmissions indicating an attack, confusion and miscommunication hindered an effective response.

As the attack unfolded, soldiers were met with armed Hamas fighters, who overpowered defenses and caused significant casualties. The attack raised critical concerns regarding Israel’s preparedness and response capabilities in the face of unexpected aggression.

The death toll from Hurricane Helene has exceeded 200 as rescue efforts continue across the southeastern United States. The storm, which struck as a category four hurricane, has devastated communities, particularly in North Carolina, where most fatalities occurred.

As rescuers search for hundreds still missing, over 780,000 homes remain without power nearly a week after the storm made landfall. President Joe Biden, on a two-day tour of affected areas, surveyed the damage in Tallahassee, Florida, where Helene first hit. "I see you, I hear you, I grieve with you," Biden reassured residents in Ray City, Georgia, vowing to support their recovery.

Federal disaster assistance has been approved for Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. North Carolina has reported severe impacts, particularly in Asheville, where tens of thousands lack running water. Stories of tragedy have emerged, including an elderly couple in South Carolina who died when a tree fell on their home.

Road closures hinder aid delivery, but private citizens are stepping up to help, including teams using mules to transport supplies to remote areas. Mountain Mule Packer Ranch has successfully delivered essential items like baby formula and cleaning supplies, overcoming challenges posed by mud left by the floods.

The North Carolina prison system has relocated over 800 inmates due to power outages, complicating communication for families trying to reach loved ones. Over 6,700 National Guard members are assisting, along with 1,000 active-duty soldiers deployed by Biden.

Former President Donald Trump also visited impacted areas earlier this week. With more rainfall expected in the Gulf Coast and Florida, recovery efforts may face additional challenges. The Biden administration has shipped millions of meals, liters of water, and other supplies to support recovery efforts.

By Gemma Zoë Price

Nestled along the banks of the River Aura, Turku—Finland’s oldest city and first capital—often flies under the radar compared to popular Nordic destinations like Stockholm and Copenhagen. Founded in 1229, this charming city of 200,000 on the southwest coast serves as the gateway to the world’s largest archipelago, boasting over 40,000 islands.

Locally known as Åbo, Turku has a rich history, transitioning from a Swedish stronghold in the Middle Ages to an autonomous Grand Duchy under the Russian Empire in 1809. Since Finland’s independence in 1917, it has established itself as a vibrant cultural hub, sometimes affectionately referred to as "the Paris of Finland" for its flourishing food and café scene.

A Walkable City with a Cozy Atmosphere

Turku’s compact city center features tree-lined boulevards dotted with 19th-century theatres, coffee shops, and market halls, many with a focus on sustainability. Shoppers can explore unique finds, from vintage vinyl at the three-story 8raita Record Store to vintage kimonos and artisanal crafts at Boutique Minne. For book lovers, the nonprofit Turku Kirjakahvila offers an array of literature and delicious vegan pastries.

While the Great Fire of 1827 destroyed 70% of Turku’s buildings, history comes alive at the Museum of Archaeology and Contemporary Art, showcasing the remnants of the medieval quarter, Aboa Vetus. Above ground, the majestic Turku Castle, constructed in the 13th century, stands sentinel over the river and now functions as a museum.

Culinary Delights and Local Libations

The food scene in Turku has gained international acclaim, particularly after the tasting-menu restaurant Kaskis earned the city its first Michelin star in 2022. The restaurant’s founders, Simo Raisio and Erik Mansikka, focus on local ingredients, crafting dishes that reflect the region’s bounty. Chef Mansikka has become a symbol of Turku’s culinary aspirations, recognized not just for his talent but also for his vibrant personality.

Local markets, like the bustling Turku Market Hall, provide a sensory overload with fresh produce, meats, and fish. Here, chef-fishmonger Johan Hellsten serves delectable creations that spotlight seasonal flavors. Don’t miss the chance to sample locally caught rainbow trout or indulge in a reindeer dish prepared two ways.

In terms of beverages, Finland's wine culture is evolving, thanks to local entrepreneurs experimenting with ingredients like lingonberries and cloudberries. Urban winery Noita is gaining attention for its natural wines, crafted from organic grapes sourced from Austria.

Explore the Archipelago

Turku serves as the perfect launching pad for exploring the surrounding archipelago. Accessible via ferry and boasting a network of electric ferries, the region invites visitors to choose their own adventure among its many islands. Nearby Ruissalo, a former hunting ground for the castle’s court, is perfect for a relaxing spa day followed by sauna sessions.

The archipelago comes alive in summer, attracting 1.5 million visitors to Åland, a group of over 6,500 islands known for their stunning natural beauty and rich history. The annual Harvest Festival in September showcases local farms and artisanal products, making it a culinary delight for visitors.

Year-Round Attractions

Thanks to Finland’s "Everyman’s Right" law, visitors can camp almost anywhere, allowing for a deeper connection to nature. The archipelago's winter activities, like cross-country skiing and ice fishing, offer a different but equally enchanting experience.

In spring and summer, the Archipelago Trail—a scenic 250km ring road—invites exploration between the islands. On a recent trip, I discovered Hotel Hyppeis on Houtskär island, a renovated schoolhouse offering cozy accommodations and multi-course dinners highlighting local ingredients.

Henry Orlik, a surrealist artist who once exhibited alongside legends like Salvador Dalí, is making a remarkable return to the art scene as the mystery surrounding 78 of his missing paintings unfolds. At 77 years old, Orlik has been hidden away in a housing association flat, creating dreamlike artworks that are now gaining recognition following decades of obscurity.

Recently, The Little Gallery in Marlborough launched a second exhibition featuring Orlik's remaining works, now available for online auction. However, a significant portion of his artistic legacy disappeared during his hospitalization for a stroke in 2022 and has yet to be located.

With the artist unable to paint due to his health, valuing the remaining pieces has become critical. Grant Ford, a gallery owner and former Sotheby’s auction specialist, described Orlik's work as “exceptional” and “mind-bogglingly good.” He was initially brought in by a solicitor trying to help Orlik recover his missing paintings and appraise the ones still in his possession.

Orlik's artistic journey began in the 1970s, but he withdrew from the public eye in the 1980s, disillusioned with the commercial art world. His childhood friend, Jan Pietruska, stepped in to assist Orlik during this challenging time. After Orlik was evicted from his flat while in the hospital, Pietruska began cataloging and preserving the remaining artworks.

Having originally emigrated from Poland with his family in 1948, Orlik now resides in his late mother’s house in Swindon, where he receives care. Despite the challenges he faces, he has managed to store many of his pieces over the years.

Pietruska has been instrumental in organizing exhibitions, showcasing Orlik's art to the public. The first exhibition resulted in around £400,000 in sales for approximately 30 works, with prices ranging from £5,000 to £40,000. The second exhibition has also attracted considerable interest, with online bidders vying for Orlik's unique creations.

Among the enthusiastic buyers is James Clifford, a logistics company owner and art aficionado, who was so captivated by Orlik's work that he rushed to the gallery before it opened. He expressed his admiration for the “extraordinary” skill on display and made an impulsive purchase that he considers one of his best decisions.

Orlik's paintings are characterized by intricate, precise details, including what he calls “excitations”—tiny squiggles that contribute to their unique color palette. His fascination with physics significantly influences his artistic approach, resulting in pieces that resonate with both art lovers and casual observers alike.