US tightens visa rules: Interview waivers ends from September 2; Is India spared from toughest restrictions?

From September 2, 2025, nearly all non-immigrant visa applicants will be required to attend in-person interviews with US consular officers. The US state department has confirmed that this marks the end of age-based exemptions and “drop box” renewals for many categories of visas, affecting students, professionals, and frequent travelers.What is changingUntil now, applicants under the […]

‘Beard poses no barrier to military service’: Sikh Council reacts US Army’s new grooming policy, no permanent shaving waivers

US Army introduced new grooming rules, no unlimited shaving waivers. (Photo: US Army) Sikh Council has reacted to the new grooming policy that the US Army announced, barring permanent shaving waivers beyond religious accommodations. Soldiers could face expulsion if they need shaving exemptions for more than 12 months over a two-year period, according to the […]