Forbes' 2025 rankings of the world's most powerful countries place India at 12th, highlighting its growing economic and military strength. The United States remains the most powerful, followed by China and Russia. Despite a $3.55 trillion economy and a 1.43 billion population, India is yet to break into the top 10. The rankings consider economic influence, military capability, and global diplomacy. As India strengthens its international ties, experts predict its rise in future rankings. "India's strategic position and rapid development indicate its growing global influence," said an analyst. The rankings also feature Germany, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.

104 Indians were deported from the US, revealing harrowing stories of deception by agents. Sukhpal Singh from Punjab paid ₹22 lakh, believing he’d get a work visa but was smuggled via Mexico. Harvinder Singh, a 45-year-old farmer, spent ₹45 lakh, was forced onto the "donkey route," and endured months of hardship. Both were detained, chained, and deported without explanation. Their ordeal highlights the dangers of illegal immigration and exploitation by fraudulent agents. Many deportees remain in shock, struggling to rebuild their lives. Authorities have registered cases against agents in Haryana under the Immigration Act.

The H-1B cap registration for FY 2026 will open on March 7 with major changes, including a higher registration fee of $215 (up from $10) and a beneficiary-centric selection process to curb fraud. The new system links applications to a unique passport number to prevent duplicate entries. USCIS aims to reduce second lottery rounds by refining selection criteria. Modernized rules redefine “specialty occupation” and introduce stricter fraud prevention measures. Experts warn of increased scrutiny and Requests for Evidence (RFEs). Companies and applicants must prepare for a more competitive process. Lottery results are expected by March 31.

A US military C-17 transport aircraft carrying undocumented Indian immigrants landed in Amritsar on Wednesday, sparking concerns over mass deportations. The Indian government assured Parliament it is engaging with the US to ensure dignified treatment of deported individuals. Legal experts say returnees face no prosecution unless they used fake documents. However, they may be barred from re-entering the US or other Western nations. Calls are growing for action against travel agents exploiting desperate migrants. “The hammer should now fall on them,” said advocate KK Manan. Investigations into illegal immigration networks are ongoing.

Exit polls predict BJP’s return to power in Delhi after nearly 30 years, with Axis My India forecasting 45-55 seats. AAP, seeking a third term, is projected to win 15-25 seats, while Congress may get 0-1. CNX and Today’s Chanakya also predict a BJP victory. Muslim votes remain with AAP (69-74%), while SC votes are split. BJP is expected to dominate East, West Delhi, Chandni Chowk, and New Delhi. The final results will determine if AAP defies predictions.

Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged a “strong protest” with India, condemning “false and fabricated” statements made by Sheikh Hasina, who is in exile. Dhaka urged India to prevent her from spreading “incendiary statements.” The protest note was handed to India’s acting high commissioner. Meanwhile, protests in Bangladesh escalated, with a mob vandalizing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence, demanding a ban on the Awami League. Sheikh Hasina, 77, fled Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, after student-led demonstrations toppled her government.

Families in Punjab and Haryana are in deep financial trouble after their relatives were deported from the US. Akashdeep Singh’s father said, "We spent over ₹60 lakh to send him abroad." Another family in Haryana sold 2.5 acres of land to pay an agent ₹65 lakh. The deportees were among 104 Indians sent back after a new US immigration order. "If jobs were available here, we wouldn’t have sent them abroad," said a distressed father. Families are now asking the government for help and strict action against agents who promise false hopes of a better future.

Bangladesh has asked India to stop former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from making statements from Indian soil. "Hasina is continuously provoking people. If she had stayed silent, there would be no unrest," said Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has also summoned the Indian deputy high commissioner. On February 5, protesters set fire to Hasina’s house in Dhanmondi and destroyed Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s historic home. Hasina resigned in August 2024 and took refuge in India. Bangladesh has formally asked India to send her back, but India has not yet responded.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended the United States' deportation of illegal migrants, stating that deportations of Indian nationals have been ongoing for years. He highlighted that between 530 and 2,000 Indians were deported annually. Jaishankar assured that India is engaging with the US to ensure the deportees’ treatment remains humane, denying mistreatment of women and children. Opposition MPs criticized the inhumane conditions, referencing videos showing Indian deportees shackled and handcuffed. Calls were made for India to send aircraft to bring citizens back more humanely, echoing Colombia's actions in a similar case.

A plane carrying 33 Gujarati immigrants, part of 104 Indians deported from the US for illegal immigration, landed at Ahmedabad airport on Thursday morning. The deportees, including women and children, were transported to their native places in Gujarat in police vehicles. The group had been detained in the US for illegal immigration, with many claiming they had left India seeking employment opportunities. Family members of the deportees expressed concern over their relatives' journey, while local authorities confirmed no questioning would take place at this stage.