India has declared a three-day state mourning following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. The mourning will be observed on April 22 and 23, and on the day of the Pope’s funeral. During this period, the national flag will fly at half-mast, and there will be no official entertainment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, highlighting Pope Francis’ compassion, humility, and commitment to inclusive development. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also paid tribute, remembering the Pope's efforts to build a better world. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, was elected as the 266th Pope on March 13, 2013, following Pope Benedict XVI's resignation. 

On April 21, 2025, U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi to advance bilateral trade discussions. Their talks focused on finalizing a trade agreement ahead of the July expiration of President Trump's 90-day tariff pause, which threatens a 26% tariff on Indian exports. The leaders also discussed defense cooperation, energy, and critical technologies. Modi hosted Vance and his family for dinner, gifting peacock feathers to their children. This visit marks the first by a U.S. vice president to India since 2013 and sets the stage for President Trump's anticipated visit later this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the strengthening of India-Saudi Arabia relations ahead of his visit to Jeddah. Highlighting Saudi Arabia as one of India's most important strategic partners, Modi noted the evolving dimensions of this partnership in line with changing times. The two nations have identified several initiatives to elevate their close partnership to the next level, aiming to infuse new direction and energy into their relationship. The India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council, established in 2019, serves as a platform to enhance cooperation in critical areas. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on a state visit to India following the G20 Summit, expressed optimism about working together to create a prosperous future for both countries. (PC: News18 & Siasat)

U.S. Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha and their three children, visited Jaipur's historic Amber Fort on Tuesday morning. The family received a traditional Rajasthani welcome, featuring folk dances and decorated elephants. They are staying at the Rambagh Palace hotel. Later today, Vance is scheduled to deliver a lecture on U.S.-India relations at the Rajasthan International Centre. Their itinerary includes a visit to Agra on Wednesday morning, followed by a return to Jaipur to tour the City Palace. Earlier, the family explored Delhi's Akshardham Temple and the Central Cottage Industries Emporium. Vance expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's hospitality, describing him as a "great leader" and emphasizing the importance of strengthening U.S.-India ties.

FBI Director Kash Patel affirmed that "justice will be done" following the arrest of Harpreet Singh, an Indian-origin terrorist apprehended in the U.S. Singh, associated with the Khalistan movement, was detained for his involvement in violent activities targeting Indian interests. Patel emphasized the FBI's commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring perpetrators face consequences. He highlighted the agency's dedication to upholding justice and protecting communities from threats. The arrest underscores the FBI's ongoing efforts to address international terrorism and maintain national security. Patel's statement reinforces the bureau's resolve to pursue justice and safeguard the nation against extremist actions. The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to assess Singh's activities and affiliations. (PC: Wikipedia)

In November 2024, Pope Francis met a nine-member delegation from Kerala's Sivagiri Mutt at the Vatican during an all-religion conference commemorating the centenary of Sree Narayana Guru’s first All Religions’ Conference. The Pope expressed eagerness to visit the mutt in 2026, donning a yellow shawl inscribed with Narayana Guru’s teachings and engaging deeply with the swamis. However, his passing has left this wish unfulfilled. Swami Rithambarananda recalled the Pope's warmth and interest in Indian culture. The Sivagiri Mutt plans to extend a fresh invitation to his successor. Kerala's Christian community mourns the Pope's demise, remembering his respect for Indian traditions. (PC: Travelsetu & The Telegraph)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia on April 22, 2025, marked a significant enhancement in bilateral relations. Co-chairing the inaugural Strategic Partnership Council meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, both leaders signed eight agreements spanning energy, digitalization, desalination, and anti-corruption. They reaffirmed a $100 billion investment commitment, including $50 billion for the West Coast Refinery project. New collaborations were identified in space, semiconductors, and fintech, with plans to implement UPI and RuPay in Saudi Arabia. Discussions also covered regional issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict and maritime security. The leaders endorsed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, aiming to boost connectivity and economic growth across regions. (PC: SHIV KUMAR PUSHPAKAR)

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, the Vatican has entered the traditional nine-day mourning period, Novendiale. The papacy is now vacant, and a Conclave will soon be held to elect the next Pope. Of the 252 Cardinals in the College, 135 are eligible to vote, including four from India. Cardinal Baselios Cleemis from Kerala, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao from Goa, Cardinal George Koovakad from Kerala, and Cardinal Anthony Poola from Andhra Pradesh will represent India. Cardinals Oswald Gracias (Mumbai) and George Alencherry (Kerala), both over 80, are ineligible. Over a billion faithful await their next spiritual leader. (PC: Diocesan Family Service Centre Goa/Malankaratvm/Archdiocese of Hyderabad/National Catholic Register)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted US Vice President JD Vance and his family at his official residence in Delhi during Vance’s first official visit to India. Both leaders reviewed the rapid progress in the first phase of the India-US trade deal and reaffirmed their goal of achieving $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. They also discussed regional and global matters, stressing dialogue and diplomacy. Modi extended warm wishes to Vance’s family and expressed optimism for deeper ties. The leaders emphasized cooperation in defence, energy, and technology, while Modi looked forward to President Trump’s upcoming visit to India. (PC:X/narendramodi)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with US Vice President JD Vance at his Delhi residence on Monday. Accompanied by his wife Usha and their children, Vance's visit aims to fast-track a US-India trade deal amid the looming threat of Donald Trump’s paused tariffs. The Vance family earlier visited Akshardham temple and a local emporium. Security was heightened in Delhi as Vance met with key Indian officials including S. Jaishankar and Ajit Doval. The talks focused on strengthening economic and strategic ties. Vance is scheduled to visit Jaipur and Agra next, blending diplomacy with cultural engagements. (PC: ANI)