The American Dream is facing fresh uncertainty for thousands of Indian IT professionals as the US government freezes new and pending green card applications linked to eight major technology companies. Microsoft, Adobe, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, Wipro, HCL Technologies, Cognizant and Capgemini are among the companies reportedly affected by the latest US immigration crackdown, raising concerns over employment-based permanent residency and long-term career plans in America. The US Department of Labor has halted the processing of new and pending PERM labour certification applications amid allegations of abuse of immigration programmes. The move could leave Indian professionals sponsored by these technology giants facing prolonged delays in their green card journey, adding another layer of uncertainty for H-1B visa holders hoping to secure permanent residency in the United States.

India and France have announced more than 20 agreements following high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron. The partnership has been elevated to a Special Global Strategic Partnership covering defence, trade, education, innovation, space and clean energy.