Millions of waste tyres from the UK, meant for recycling, are being burned in illegal Indian pyrolysis plants, causing severe health and environmental damage. Investigations revealed that 70% of UK-exported tyres end up in makeshift furnaces, releasing hazardous pollutants. Villagers near these sites report respiratory issues and toxic fumes. The UK government claims strict export controls, but campaigners demand stronger action. An explosion at one such Indian plant killed four people in January. Experts warn of cancer risks from exposure. Australia has banned tyre exports, but UK firms continue the practice for profit. (PC: Getty Images)

Gladys and Nelson Gonzalez, a Colombian couple who lived in the U.S. for 35 years, were deported despite having no criminal history. Their three U.S.-born daughters, devastated by the decision, described it as "cruel and unjust." The couple complied with immigration rules and sought legal pathways but fell victim to predatory immigration practices. They were detained by ICE on February 21 and deported on March 18. Their attorney criticized the abrupt deportation, saying they were not given time to say goodbye. The daughters have launched a GoFundMe campaign for support. (PC: GoFundme)  

India is considering reducing tariffs on $23 billion worth of U.S. imports to counter potential reciprocal tariffs from Washington, sources said. The move aims to shield $66 billion in Indian exports that could be impacted by U.S. President Donald Trump’s new trade policies. India is willing to cut or scrap tariffs on 55% of taxed U.S. goods, ranging from 5%-30%. Talks between Indian and U.S. officials are ongoing, with Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Brendan Lynch leading a delegation. Broader tariff reforms are also under discussion but remain in early stages. (PC: Reuters)

Senior Indian and Chinese officials met in Beijing to review the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) amid ongoing border tensions. Both sides agreed to expedite cross-border cooperation, including water management of trans-border rivers and resuming the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage. They also discussed preparations for the upcoming Special Representatives’ meeting on the boundary issue, scheduled to take place in New Delhi later this year. The dialogue is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and enhance communication between the two nations following recent border stand-offs. Further high-level discussions are expected in the coming months. (PC: ETV Bharat)  

Kolli Abhishek, a man from Andhra Pradesh’s Krishna district, was found dead in Texas a day after going missing. Authorities suspect suicide. Abhishek, unemployed for six months, had recently moved to Princeton with his wife. His family launched a GoFundMe campaign, raising over $18,000 to cover funeral expenses and transport his body to India. “We want to honour his memory with dignity,” his brother Aravind said. The Telugu community in the U.S. has extended financial and emotional support to the grieving family. Local groups are assisting with the necessary arrangements. (PC: gofundme)

The Trump administration plans to expand social media vetting to Indian green card holders and asylum seekers in the US. Previously applied only to visa applicants abroad, the new policy would require legal residents to disclose their social media accounts for national security screening. Critics argue this could discourage political expression and target dissenters. The move comes amid Trump’s intensified immigration crackdown, including deportations and stricter visa scrutiny. The administration defends the policy as essential for security. Public comments on the proposal are being accepted before implementation. (PC: NDTV)

India and China held the 33rd Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) meeting in Beijing to discuss border cooperation, trans-border rivers, and resuming the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra. Talks focused on implementing past agreements, with both sides agreeing to strengthen diplomatic and military mechanisms. India stressed that peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is crucial for bilateral ties. The meeting followed an October 2024 agreement to withdraw forces from key friction points. China welcomed India’s push for improved relations, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks on cooperation for global stability. (PC:X/China_Amb_India)

Millions of UK tyres meant for recycling are sent to India, where many end up in illegal factories. These tyres are burned in unsafe furnaces, releasing harmful chemicals. This process, called pyrolysis, pollutes the air and water. Villagers near these plants suffer from breathing problems and other health issues. A recent explosion at one such plant killed four people. Experts say UK companies sell tyres to India because it is cheaper. Campaigners are urging the government to act. The UK has rules against illegal tyre exports, but many businesses still send them abroad for unsafe processing. (PC: Getty Images)

India is considering reducing tariffs on over half of US imports worth $23 billion. The move aims to counter new US tariffs that could impact 87% of Indian exports. A US trade delegation is set to visit India for talks. India may cut tariffs on products like almonds and quinoa but will not lower them for meat, maize, wheat, or dairy. Tariffs on automobiles may be reduced gradually. The government wants to protect key industries, including pharmaceuticals and machinery, while maintaining strong trade ties with the US. The final decision is yet to be made. (PC: REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque)

In November 2024, 24-year-old Delhi native Harshita Brella was found murdered in the UK, allegedly by her husband, Pankaj Lamba, after enduring months of domestic abuse and dowry harassment. Despite her family's pleas to return to India, legal constraints prevented her departure. Her body was discovered in a car boot in Ilford, prompting an international manhunt for Lamba, believed to have fled to India. Her family continues to seek justice, criticizing both UK and Indian authorities for perceived inaction. (PC: The Times of India)