US Halts Green Card Processing for 75 Countries and Updates Visa Bond List from January 21

January 21, 2026

US Halts Green Card Processing for 75 Countries and Updates Visa Bond List from January 21

Starting January 21, the US stops processing Green Card applications from 75 countries and updates visa bond rules, requiring some visitors to pay refundable bonds.

Madras Sappers Military Band to Celebrate 150 Years of Vande Mataram at Lalbagh

January 21, 2026

Madras Sappers Military Band to Celebrate 150 Years of Vande Mataram at Lalbagh

On January 25, the Madras Sappers military band will play stirring martial music at Bengaluru's Lalbagh to honor 150 years of Vande Mataram. Known for their precision and patriotic spirit, the band aims to inspire unity and pride through their performance.

Japan Restarts Reactor at World’s Largest Nuclear Plant After 15 Years

January 21, 2026

Japan Restarts Reactor at World’s Largest Nuclear Plant After 15 Years

Japan has restarted a reactor at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant, its largest, nearly 15 years after Fukushima disaster. Reactor no.6 will start commercial operations next month amid safety upgrades and public concerns.

GOPHA and IVI Launch Global Forum to Boost Eye Care Access Aligned with WHO SPECS 2030

January 21, 2026

GOPHA and IVI Launch Global Forum to Boost Eye Care Access Aligned with WHO SPECS 2030

The Global Optometry Public Health Alliance and India Vision Institute launched a global forum to strengthen eye care access and integrate optometry within public health systems, aligning with WHO SPECS 2030 targets. Over 900 delegates from 69 countries joined the event.

Syrian Army Enters Al-Hawl Camp After Kurdish Forces Withdraw to Defend Northern Cities

January 21, 2026

Syrian Army Enters Al-Hawl Camp After Kurdish Forces Withdraw to Defend Northern Cities

The Syrian army has entered the al-Hawl detention camp housing relatives of suspected Islamic State fighters after Kurdish forces withdrew. The shift follows Kurdish claims of defense needs and a new ceasefire deal. Syria is set to take responsibility for IS prisoners in the region.