The Indian Embassy in Tehran has asked Indians to leave Iran as soon as possible, despite a new ceasefire between the United States and Iran. The advisory was issued on April 8 after recent developments in the conflict. Officials said citizens should stay in touch with the embassy and follow the safe routes suggested for exit. They warned people not to approach borders without prior approval. Earlier, Indians were told to stay indoors and avoid sensitive areas. Meanwhile, the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, with talks set to begin in Pakistan. However, tensions remain high, and safety concerns continue.

Neelam Shinde, an Indian student in Sacramento, has died after remaining in a coma for 14 months. She suffered severe injuries in a hit-and-run accident on February 14, 2025. Doctors performed surgery, but she never regained consciousness. Her family stayed with her during the long treatment. After her death, the family fulfilled her last wish. They said she had wanted to help others even in death. Her organs were donated, helping several patients. Authorities are still investigating the accident. No arrest has been confirmed so far. (PC: India Today)

Pakistan has issued over 2,800 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India for the Baisakhi celebrations, scheduled between April 10 and 14 in Punjab province. Pilgrims will enter via the Wagah border and attend the main ceremony at Gurdwara Panja Sahib on April 14, marking the 327th Khalsa Janam Din. The delegation will also visit key religious sites including Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib. Pakistani authorities have completed security and hospitality preparations, ensuring accommodation, transport and essential facilities. The annual pilgrimage highlights cross-border religious engagement and cultural ties, even as broader diplomatic relations remain complex between the two countries. (PC: PTI)

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has advised Indian nationals to remain indoors for 48 hours as a deadline set by Donald Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz approaches. Citizens have been urged to avoid power grids, military installations and upper floors of buildings, and to coordinate any travel with the Embassy. The advisory follows continued US-Israel strikes on Iran since February 28. India has already facilitated the evacuation of thousands, including students and fishermen, via neighbouring countries. Authorities said efforts remain focused on ensuring the safety and welfare of Indians in the region.

WO2 (Ret’d) Satyasagar Ghale has been awarded the British Empire Medal for his service to the Gurkha community. The honour recognises his long work supporting veterans and their families. After a 21-year career with the Brigade of Gurkhas, he joined the Gurkha Welfare Trust. Since 2005, he has helped 94 ex-servicemen and their families in India. Officials said his work reflects “the highest standards of public service.” The award highlights his continued role in welfare efforts after retirement. Authorities also congratulated him on receiving the honour. (PC: X)

Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman has begun a visit to India aimed at resetting bilateral ties with Bangladesh after a period of strain. He is scheduled to meet S Jaishankar, Hardeep Singh Puri and Ajit Doval to discuss strategic, economic and security cooperation. Talks will focus on expanding energy collaboration, including an existing diesel supply agreement, and reviving delayed infrastructure projects in rail and road sectors. The visit follows a slowdown during Bangladesh’s interim government phase, with both sides aiming to restore trust, accelerate projects and strengthen engagement across key sectors. (PC: X)

Border Security Force is reportedly assessing a proposal to deploy venomous snakes and crocodiles along unfenced stretches of the India–Bangladesh border where terrain makes fencing difficult. The 4,096-km border remains about 20% incomplete, with 175 km unsuitable due to marshy, flood-prone conditions. An internal memo, linked to directions from Amit Shah, asked field units to evaluate feasibility and risks. Officials flagged safety concerns for local communities and logistical challenges. The move comes amid heightened border security measures under Narendra Modi’s government, alongside criticism from rights groups over its handling of migration and alleged targeting of minorities. (PC: MSN)

The Embassy of India in Vietnam has advised Indian travellers visiting Phu Quoc Island to be cautious about visa restrictions and passport-related risks. While the island offers visa-free entry to Indians, this exemption applies only within Phu Quoc and does not permit travel to mainland cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City without a valid visa. The advisory warns that emergencies requiring departure from the island may lead to complications for those without visas. It also highlights that losing a passport requires filing a police report and obtaining emergency documents, followed by a mandatory wait of three to five working days for an exit permit from Vietnamese authorities.

Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, Abhishek Banerjee sparked controversy by warning of retaliation after Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif allegedly threatened Kolkata. Speaking at a rally, Banerjee criticised Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Rajnath Singh for remaining silent, vowing strong action if his alliance comes to power. Mamata Banerjee also questioned the Centre’s response, accusing it of ignoring Bengal’s security concerns. The exchange follows escalating rhetoric, with both sides issuing warnings, intensifying political tensions during ongoing election campaigning.

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with Qatar Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani to review escalating military developments and their global security implications. Both sides emphasized peaceful conflict resolution and the urgent need to ensure freedom of navigation in critical maritime routes. The situation has directly impacted shipping, with 16 Indian-flagged vessels reportedly stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil transit chokepoint. The developments underline growing risks to international trade, energy supplies, and regional stability amid intensifying geopolitical uncertainty.