India has officially resumed issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens from July 24, 2025, ending a suspension that began in 2020 amid COVID‑19 and border tensions along the Line of Actual Control . The Indian Embassy in Beijing confirmed applicants may submit documents and biometrics via Visa Application Centres in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou . The move coincides with efforts to normalize bilateral ties, including upcoming SCO engagements and resumption of direct flights. China welcomed the decision as positive, with officials expressing support for increased people-to-people exchange. (PC: CNN)

The Piprahwa gems, dating back to 240–200 BCE, were unearthed in 1898 by British colonial officer William Peppé at Piprahwa, near the India-Nepal border. Found alongside bone fragments in a large stone casket inscribed as relics of the Buddha, the jewels were considered part of the sacred offerings made by disciples. After India’s independence, the Peppé family retained possession. In 2025, plans to auction them abroad sparked national outcry. With diplomatic effort and support from businessman Pirojsha Godrej, India repatriated the relics, reclaiming an important symbol of its Buddhist heritage and ancient craftsmanship. The relics will now be preserved in India. (PC: NDTV)

Over 300 precious jewels—believed to have been buried with Lord Buddha over 2,200 years ago—have been returned to India after 127 years abroad. The relics, unearthed in 1898 at Piprahwa in Uttar Pradesh, were once held by British colonialist William Peppé’s family. When the collection was set to be auctioned by Sotheby’s in Hong Kong, the Indian government intervened diplomatically and legally to stop the sale. Eventually, Godrej Group acquired the artifacts and handed them over to India. Prime Minister Modi called the return a "joyous day" for Indian heritage, marking a victory for cultural repatriation efforts. (PC: The New York Times)  

As US President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods, he accused India of high trade barriers and criticised its economic ties with Russia, calling both economies “dead.” India responded calmly, vowing to protect national interests and continue dialogue. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that all necessary steps would be taken for farmers, MSMEs, and exporters. The opposition, led by Rahul Gandhi, echoed Trump’s “dead economy” comment, drawing backlash from BJP leaders. Economists expect limited GDP impact, but pressure mounts on key export sectors. Talks continue, with Trump hinting a deal could still happen this week. (PC: X)

India will not retaliate against US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff and additional penalties on Indian imports starting August 1, government sources said. Trump cited India's high tariffs, non-monetary trade barriers, and continued energy imports from Russia. Indian officials stated that negotiations, not escalation, are the preferred path, emphasizing the nation's economic resilience. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed consultations with exporters and stakeholders are underway to assess the impact. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi seized the moment to criticize the Modi government, calling India a “dead economy” and blaming BJP policies for economic stagnation. (PC: X)

A 32-year-old Indian-origin man, Santosh Yadav, was attacked by six teenagers near his home in Dublin. He suffered a fractured cheekbone and serious injuries. Yadav said it was a racist attack and blamed Irish police for delays. He shared that the teens broke his glasses and beat him with what seemed like a chain. Yadav said he feels unsafe and fears stepping outside. Activists warned of rising hate crimes against Indians in Ireland. Protests followed the attack, with migrant groups demanding stronger action. Many say poor police training and online hate are making things worse for migrants in Dublin. (PC: Santosh Yadav/Linkedin)

Iran has accused the US of using its economy as a weapon to control other countries. The statement came after President Trump announced a 25% tariff on India and penalties for buying Russian oil. Iran called these steps “modern economic imperialism.” The Iranian Embassy in India posted that such actions harm nations like Iran and India. Iran’s foreign ministry said new US sanctions on its oil sector were “oppressive” and hurt its people. Spokesperson Esmail Baqaei called the sanctions illegal and a “crime against humanity.” He said the US ignores global rules and puts the world at risk with such actions. (PC: AFP)

India will not retaliate against US President Donald Trump's 25% tariff on Indian goods, government sources said. The new tariffs, along with penalties over India’s oil trade with Russia, will start on August 1. Trump called India’s trade barriers “too high” and described both India and Russia as “dead economies.” Government sources said India will handle the issue through talks, not anger. “Silence is the best answer,” one official said. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told Parliament that the government is studying the impact. He said India will protect farmers, MSMEs, and exporters, and will act in the nation’s best interest. (PC: AFP)

US President Donald Trump has announced 25% tariffs on Indian goods. A penalty on Indian purchases from Russia was also added. Trump said these steps will make America "great and rich again." He called India’s trade barriers "high" and "unfair." The new rules will start from August 1. In response, India’s government said it is looking into the impact. The Commerce Ministry said India and the US were already talking about a fair and balanced trade deal. The government said it will protect farmers, small businesses, and national interest while continuing talks for better trade ties with the US. (PC: AP)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor warned that Donald Trump’s 25% tariff on Indian exports, plus penalties for Russian oil purchases, could “destroy” India’s trade with the U.S. The effective rate may reach 35–45%, with talk of a 100% penalty. Tharoor called the move “very serious,” urging negotiators to resist unreasonable demands. He emphasized India’s average 17% tariff and strong domestic market, suggesting diversification if talks fail. Former minister P. Chidambaram called the tariffs a WTO violation and a “big blow” to diplomacy. The Indian government is assessing the implications and reaffirmed its commitment to a fair bilateral trade agreement amid rising tensions. (PC: NDTV)