Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus sparked outrage by suggesting China expand its influence in India's northeastern states, calling Bangladesh the "only guardian of the ocean" for the region. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma condemned Yunus's remarks, labeling them provocative and unacceptable. Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Manikya demanded a more aggressive stance from India, even suggesting a split with Bangladesh. Congress leader Pawan Khera also criticized the government's failure to secure the Northeast against growing Chinese influence. Yunus's comments signal Bangladesh's shift toward China amid strained ties with India, raising security concerns. (PC: AFP)

On the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for a "dragon-elephant tango" to enhance India-China relations. Xi emphasized peaceful coexistence, mutual trust, and cooperation. In a message to President Droupadi Murmu, he urged strengthening bilateral ties and promoting global stability. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese Premier Li Qiang also exchanged greetings. Meanwhile, border de-escalation in eastern Ladakh continues as per schedule. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently discussed security and geopolitical concerns. Both nations seek to reset ties after the 2020 standoff. (PC: India Today)

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed concern over recent developments in Bangladesh, particularly regarding the safety of Hindus and the potential resurgence of Northeast insurgent groups finding refuge there. He highlighted that during Sheikh Hasina's tenure, insurgent groups were expelled from Bangladesh, contributing to regional stability. Sarma emphasized the need for continued vigilance to prevent Bangladesh from becoming a safe haven for insurgents again. He also noted that certain districts in Assam have experienced demographic shifts, with some areas resembling "mini Bangladesh," underscoring the importance of maintaining security and communal harmony in the region. (PC: News 18 & X)

Security forces have launched a search and destroy operation in Kathua's Panjtirthi area following intelligence on terrorist movements. The Indian Army's Rising Star Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF are collaborating in this effort. Suspicious activity near the Panjtirthi temple led to an exchange of fire on Monday night, prompting intensified operations on Tuesday morning. Officials suspect three Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists are trapped in the vicinity. This development follows a recent encounter in Kathua where two terrorists and four policemen were killed. Deputy Inspector General Shiv Kumar Sharma emphasized the commitment to neutralize all remaining threats and urged locals to report any suspicious activities. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, during his recent visit to China, appealed to Beijing to invest in Bangladesh, highlighting the strategic position of India's landlocked northeastern states. He emphasized that these "seven sister states" lack direct access to the ocean, positioning Bangladesh as their "only guardian of the ocean." Yunus suggested that this scenario offers China a "huge possibility" to extend its economic influence by establishing a base in Bangladesh, facilitating manufacturing and export activities. This statement has raised concerns in India, with officials questioning the implications of such collaborations on regional dynamics. (PC: Posted on X by Mao Ning)

A Dominican judge has dismissed the case against Josh Riibe, 22, who was the last person seen with Indian American University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki before her disappearance in Punta Cana on March 6. Authorities held Riibe under strict supervision, but after no evidence linked him to the case, his name was cleared. Konanki’s parents now believe she drowned. Riibe, who described their last moments in the ocean, has since returned to the U.S. after being barred from leaving for weeks. The case officially concludes with no criminal charges. (PC: daily mail)

India has strongly denied a New York Times report claiming Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) sold sensitive technology to a Russian arms agency. The Ministry of External Affairs called the report "factually incorrect and misleading," saying HAL follows all international trade rules. The NYT article alleged that British company HR Smith sent parts to HAL, which then sent similar items to Russia. HAL has not responded yet. The Indian government urged media outlets to verify facts before publishing. The British government had earlier warned companies about sensitive tech being redirected to Russia through intermediaries. (PC: HR Smith)

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Amit Arora, a 43-year-old travel agent from Delhi, for orchestrating the illegal immigration of individuals to the United States via the "donkey route." Arora, previously implicated in 10 visa and passport fraud cases in Chandigarh, collaborated with Mandeep Singh, another agent from Kapurthala, Punjab. They charged clients substantial sums, such as the ₹41 lakh taken from 20-year-old Maninder Pal Singh, who endured a perilous 13-month journey through multiple countries before being apprehended and deported by U.S. authorities. This arrest underscores the ongoing crackdown on human trafficking networks exploiting vulnerable individuals seeking better opportunities abroad. (PC: News Drum & Mint)

An Indian professional recently shared his experiences after visiting European cities like Amsterdam, Paris, and Zurich, expressing envy over their superior infrastructure and work-life balance. He highlighted Europe's clean air, efficient public transportation, and disciplined, open culture. Contrasting this with India's long working hours and infrastructural challenges, he noted that Europeans are "living life," while Indians are merely "surviving it." This reflection has ignited discussions on the need for improved quality of life and work culture in India. (PC: Trainline & National Herald)

India has launched Operation Brahma to assist Myanmar after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28, 2025, which killed over 1,600 people and injured thousands. Under this mission, India has sent over 55 tonnes of relief materials, including tents, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, and medicines. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed specialized rescue teams along with a medical crew to support relief efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have reaffirmed India’s commitment to helping Myanmar recover from this humanitarian crisis, ensuring continued assistance as needed. (PC: X/ S Jaishankar)