An Indian software engineer, Avinash Narne, has been charged with the alleged murder of his wife, Raajitha Sabbineni, in Bellevue, Washington, nearly nine months after her death. Investigators allege he strangled her, staged the scene to mislead police, and sent a photograph of her body to a woman in India with whom he reportedly had a long-term relationship. Messages from the victim about bitter-tasting drinks and a “medicine-like” smoothie, along with digital evidence, strengthened the case. Narne now faces a first-degree murder charge and could receive life imprisonment if convicted.

US President Donald Trump has again claimed that his administration helped broker a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, while also alleging that 11 military aircraft were shot down during the recent conflict. Trump said the fighting risked escalating into a wider confrontation before diplomatic efforts led to a halt in hostilities. India has consistently maintained that the ceasefire resulted from direct military-level talks between the two countries and has rejected claims of third-party mediation. Trump's latest remarks have reignited debate over the conflict's diplomatic outcome and the scale of military losses reported during the escalation. (PC: File)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia is expected to strengthen India-Australia ties with key discussions on a commercial uranium supply agreement, defence cooperation and maritime security. The proposed uranium deal aims to support India’s expanding nuclear energy programme and growing electricity needs. Both countries are also expected to upgrade defence ties, enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and finalise a maritime security roadmap. Talks may include defence industry collaboration, critical minerals, undersea domain awareness and resilient supply chains. The visit is seen as an important step in deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between New Delhi and Canberra. (PC: X)

The FBI-led Operation Hard Ball marks a major escalation in the international crackdown on the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, following years of scrutiny by Canadian authorities. The operation comes after Canada designated the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity in 2025 over its alleged involvement in violence targeting pro-Khalistan activists. U.S. investigators have also charged jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and alleged associate Goldy Brar in connection with the 2023 killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The multinational operation has resulted in arrests, raids and the seizure of weapons and drugs, highlighting growing global cooperation against transnational organised crime. (PC: The Indian Express)

Indian airlines are facing longer flight times and higher operating costs after the closure of Iranian and Iraqi airspace forced them to reroute international services through alternative corridors. Flights to Europe, the UK and North America are now taking up to two hours longer as carriers detour via Central Asia or the Middle East, increasing fuel consumption and insurance costs. With jet fuel accounting for nearly 40% of airline operating expenses, the added burden is expected to push up international airfares. Airlines are also revising schedules as congestion builds along the limited safe flight corridors. (PC: News18)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a traditional Indonesian angklung as a special gift from Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his visit to Jakarta. The bamboo musical instrument was presented as a cultural souvenir, with President Subianto saying it was “for your collection.” The moment turned light-hearted when the iconic Bollywood song Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was played on the instrument, bringing smiles to both leaders. Prime Minister Modi warmly accepted the gift and appreciated the gesture. The exchange highlighted the strong cultural ties between India and Indonesia during the leaders’ bilateral meeting.

The United States has intensified its action against alleged transnational organised crime networks by seeking the extradition of key figures linked to jailed gangsters Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria. The move follows a sweeping FBI-led operation, codenamed Operation Hard Ball, targeting organised crime activities including alleged extortion, drug trafficking, and violent offences. US authorities have also accused a Punjab police officer of assisting an extortion scheme and are pursuing extradition proceedings against him. The investigation involved coordinated raids across the US, Canada, and Europe, leading to multiple arrests and highlighting growing international cooperation against cross-border organised crime. 

Indian couturier Rahul Mishra captivated audiences at Paris Haute Couture Week with his latest collection, “Devi: The Eternal Muse.” Inspired by celestial sculptures from India’s ancient temples and the Ajanta caves, the collection transformed architectural motifs into wearable couture through intricate embroidery, sculptural silhouettes, and handcrafted embellishments. Mishra described the designs as a tribute to India’s artistic legacy, blending spirituality, craftsmanship, and contemporary fashion. The showcase reaffirmed his reputation for elevating Indian heritage on the global couture stage while celebrating the skill of traditional artisans and the timeless beauty of temple architecture. 

    India's passport has slipped to 125th place in a global passport mobility ranking, reflecting reduced visa-free and visa-on-arrival access for Indian travellers. The latest ranking places India behind countries including Namibia, the Philippines and Uzbekistan, highlighting challenges in international travel freedom. Passport rankings are based on the number of destinations citizens can enter without obtaining a visa in advance or by receiving a visa on arrival. The report has renewed discussions on India's global mobility, diplomatic engagement and travel access, while experts note that such rankings can change as countries revise visa policies and bilateral agreements. (PC: X)

India and Indonesia have strengthened defence ties with agreements in principle for the purchase of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jakarta. Indonesia is expected to procure two BrahMos batteries worth around $200 million, doubling its initial plan for a single battery. The two countries also agreed to jointly develop the strategic Sabang-Aceh port near the Malacca Strait, a key global shipping chokepoint. While the number of Astra missiles is yet to be finalised, they will be integrated into Indonesia's Su-30 fighter fleet, with contract negotiations expected to begin soon. (PC: Edition CNN)