India, Sept. 4 -- The US State Department has paused the issuance of all Diversity Visas, putting the immigration program on hold while it reviews screening and vetting procedures.

The State Department announced the change on August 31, saying the pause followed concerns over the screening and vetting process used in the Diversity Visa program. The department said it wants to review potential vulnerabilities and ensure that people selected through the lottery can be properly identified and assessed for national security and public safety concerns.

The State Department said it has paused all visa issuances to Diversity Visa applicants. However, applicants can still submit applications and attend scheduled interviews.

Existing Diversity ...