Jan Egeland of the Norwegian Refugee Council said India and China should give more foreign aid. He said, “it’s time” they support global relief efforts. He also warned that cutting aid to boost defence spending is a “major strategic mistake”. Egeland said many countries are reducing aid while crises grow. He noted that the United States cuts have already affected humanitarian work. He added that lack of aid could increase migration and instability. He urged nations to balance security spending with support for vulnerable people. (PC: Ed Prior/Norwegian Refugee Council)

The Indian vessel Jag Vikram is set to cross the Strait of Hormuz and is being escorted towards India. It will be the ninth Indian ship to pass through the route. The tanker carries LPG and has 24 Indian crew members onboard. Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the update. The movement follows a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Tensions remain after failed talks and a US blockade warning. Around 15 Indian vessels are still waiting for safe passage. (PC: AP)

An Indian techie’s message about caring for his newborn has gone viral online. He asked his US manager for flexible hours as he needed to look after his baby in the evening. He assured her, “I will make up this time by working early or late.” The manager responded kindly, saying, “This is wonderful,” and suggested he block the time as “OOO” to avoid conflicts. The techie shared that such support motivates him to work better. He also compared work cultures, saying freedom abroad feels “next level.” Social media users praised both the manager’s understanding and the employee’s honesty and clear communication.

Indian astronaut-designates, including Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Air Commodore Balakrishnan Nair, have hailed Artemis II as a “watershed moment” following its successful completion. The mission marked humanity’s first crewed journey beyond low Earth orbit in over 50 years, with astronauts travelling farther from Earth than ever before and safely splashing down after a 10-day lunar flyby. Indian space representatives described it as a shared global achievement that inspires future exploration. They emphasized its significance for India’s own space ambitions, highlighting collaboration under the Artemis Accords and renewed momentum toward human missions to the Moon and beyond. (PC: ISRO)

A U.S. federal grand jury has indicted ten Indian nationals for allegedly conspiring to commit visa fraud through staged armed robberies. The accused reportedly orchestrated fake robberies at convenience stores to help individuals falsely claim victim status and apply for U visas, meant for genuine crime victims assisting law enforcement. Authorities said some participants paid to be listed as “victims,” exploiting immigration protections. The scheme operated across multiple states and involved coordinated roles, including organisers and fake assailants. The accused had earlier been charged and released under conditions. The case highlights growing scrutiny over misuse of humanitarian visa programs. (PC: Getty Images)

India has cleared nearly 90% of cargo backlog at major ports amid disruptions caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, according to Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Swift government intervention, continuous monitoring, and coordinated efforts with port authorities helped stabilise operations despite reduced global vessel traffic. The disruptions, linked to ongoing tensions in West Asia, had initially slowed cargo movement and trade flows. Sonowal emphasised that proactive measures ensured minimal impact on India’s trade resilience, restoring operational normalcy across ports. The situation remains sensitive as limited shipping through Hormuz continues to pose risks to global supply chains. (PC: Times Now)

India has strongly condemned the escalating violence in Lebanon, where Israel’s strikes have killed 1,800 people, including 303 in a single day, threatening a fragile United States–Iran truce. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed the situation “very disturbing,” urging protection of civilians and adherence to international law. India highlighted its role in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and confirmed steps to safeguard Indian nationals. With over 1.1 million displaced and rising regional instability, New Delhi is intensifying diplomatic outreach and energy partnerships to manage broader geopolitical and economic risks. (PC: HT)

India has expressed deep concern over rising civilian casualties in Lebanon following recent strikes by Israel that reportedly killed over 250 people. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed the developments “very disturbing,” emphasising the urgent need to protect civilians. Highlighting India’s role in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, he noted India’s continued commitment to Lebanon’s peace and stability. Reiterating its stance, India called for adherence to international law and respect for sovereignty. The government also confirmed that measures are underway to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian nationals amid escalating regional tensions. (PC: PTI)

India has reportedly withdrawn its bid to host COP33, the 2028 edition of the UN climate summit, though no official confirmation has been issued. Narendra Modi had earlier announced India’s interest during COP28 in Dubai in 2023. The decision, first reported by Climate Home News, comes as host countries for COP summits are typically finalised two years in advance. The reasons behind India’s reported withdrawal remain unclear. COP meetings are among the most significant global platforms for climate negotiations, bringing together nations to address emissions, sustainability, and climate action commitments. The development raises questions about future hosting plans and India’s evolving climate diplomacy strategy. (PC: AFP)

A viral video from Nepal shows a local man confronting Indian tourists for spitting gutka on a public road, forcing them to clean it immediately. The incident occurred after the tourists spat from a moving vehicle, prompting the man to stop them, scold them, and demand they wash the area. The visibly embarrassed tourists apologised and complied. The video has sparked widespread debate online, highlighting concerns about civic sense and responsible tourism. While many praised the Nepali man for holding the tourists accountable, others criticised his tone and warned against generalising Indians. The episode has reignited conversations about public behaviour and the global image of travellers.