The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that 98 Indian pilgrims are among the hundreds who died during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca due to extreme heat, natural causes, and chronic illnesses. With over 175,000 Indians participating in this year’s pilgrimage, the deaths highlight the severe conditions faced by the faithful. Despite the lack of an official death toll from Saudi Arabia, other countries like Jordan and Tunisia have also reported fatalities. The Hajj, a key religious duty for Muslims, saw over 1.83 million participants this year, concluding on Wednesday.

At least 98 Indian pilgrims have died during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, the government announced. The deaths were attributed to "natural causes". Globally, 1,081 pilgrims from 10 countries have lost their lives during the holy journey. The Hajj, a mandatory religious duty for Muslims, took place during the scorching Saudi summer, with temperatures reaching 125°F. The World Health Organization estimates that heat kills over 500,000 people annually, with the actual figure potentially being much higher. The pilgrimage involves hours of walking and praying, posing health risks to devotees.

A recent UNICEF report has shed light on the dire state of child food poverty worldwide. One in four children globally suffers from severe food poverty, surviving on a limited diet that puts them at risk of severe malnutrition. This affects 181 million children, with 65% residing in just 20 countries, including India, Afghanistan, and Ethiopia. South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa are among the worst-hit regions. The report categorizes India as high-risk, with 64 million children affected in South Asia alone. The UNICEF report urges immediate attention to address this critical issue impacting children's growth, development, and overall well-being.

Saudi Arabia reported that over 600 pilgrims, including 68 Indian nationals, died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage due to extreme heat and other causes. The toll, confirmed by a Saudi diplomat, includes 323 Egyptians and 60 Jordanians, primarily due to heat-related ailments. This year's fatalities mark a significant increase compared to last year's total of over 200 deaths. The extreme temperatures led to over 2,700 cases of heat exhaustion. While some pilgrims are still unaccounted for, officials have noted that the situation is consistent with previous years, with more detailed reports expected soon.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a key operative linked to a Canada-based Khalistani terrorist, Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa. Jaspreet Singh was arrested in Punjab's Ferozepur district during multi-state searches. The agency seized weapons, drugs, and cash from his possession. The NIA had registered a case last year and investigations revealed Landa's involvement in terror conspiracies of the banned Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). Searches were conducted across Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Punjab, leading to the arrest. The crackdown is a significant blow to the Khalistani terror module, and the NIA continues to investigate the module's activities.

Suborno Isaac Bari, a 12-year-old genius Indian-origin is poised to become the youngest student to graduate from a Long Island high school. He will receive his diploma from Malverne High School next week, a feat unprecedented for someone of his age. Bari's academic prowess has also earned him a full scholarship to New York University, where he will study mathematics and physics in the fall. The child prodigy expressed gratitude to his family for their support, acknowledging their hard work in his remarkable achievement. Bari's accomplishments are an inspiration to many, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication.

Funds held by Indian clients in Swiss banks plummeted by 70% in 2023 to CHF 1.04 billion (Rs 9,771 crore), hitting a four-year low, according to the Swiss National Bank. This sharp decline follows a peak of CHF 3.83 billion in 2021. The reduction spans customer deposits, bonds, securities, and funds through other banks. Despite historic concerns about black money, Swiss authorities clarify that the figures represent legitimate holdings, with active cooperation to curb tax fraud. This trend mirrors a global decline in foreign deposits, with India ranking 67th among nations with funds in Swiss banks.

A new H-1B visa rule proposed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is expected to introduce significant changes for employers and skilled professionals. Set to be published on July 8 for public comment, the rule would restrict H-1B eligibility by redefining specialty occupations to those with degrees directly related to specific jobs, reviving a controversial Trump-era provision. Business administration degrees may no longer qualify as sufficient for H-1B status. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security plans to impose higher extension fees: $4,000 for H-1B and $4,500 for L-1 visas, potentially impacting hiring practices and international MBA enrollments.

A Saudi diplomat reported that 68 Indian nationals died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, bringing the total death toll to 645. Many deaths were due to natural causes and extreme heat. Among the dead were also 323 Egyptians and 60 Jordanians. Fatalities were confirmed by countries including Indonesia, Iran, Senegal, and Tunisia. Saudi Arabia has not released official fatality numbers but noted over 2,700 cases of heat exhaustion on Sunday. The diplomat mentioned that some Indian pilgrims are still missing, with further details expected soon.

Canada's Parliament observed a moment of silence for Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on the first anniversary of his death. Nijjar was killed in a targeted shooting in Surrey, Canada. India reacted by announcing a memorial for the 329 victims of the 1985 Air India bombing. Nijjar, listed as a terrorist by India, led the Khalistan Tiger Force. His activities strained India-Canada relations. Despite Nijjar's controversial past, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called him a Canadian national. India has repeatedly voiced concerns over Nijjar’s actions, including his involvement in the 2017 Ludhiana blast.