External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar counters US President Joe Biden's assertion that 'xenophobia' hinders India's economic progress. Jaishankar emphasizes India's historical openness to diverse societies, citing the Citizenship Amendment Act's provision for those in need. Speaking at a round table, he dismisses claims of India's economic faltering and criticizes those who oppose the CAA. Biden's comments sparked controversy, with the White House clarifying his statement as making a "broader point." Jaishankar's rebuttal underscores India's welcoming stance towards immigrants and refutes allegations of xenophobia hindering its economy.

A Canadian inquiry has accused India of trying to influence Canadian politicians and communities to support its stance on Khalistani separatism. The report claims Indian officials and proxies tried to shape Canada's position, but didn't affect election results. India sees Canada's South Asian community as a threat to its national security and fails to distinguish between peaceful advocacy and violent extremism. The findings have sparked a diplomatic row between the two countries. The report's claims have raised concerns about foreign interference in Canadian politics and the need for greater transparency.

India's UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj slammed Pakistan's envoy Munir Akram for his comments on India's internal matters, saying Islamabad has a "dubious track record" on peacekeeping. Akram had referenced India's Citizenship Act, Ram temple, and Kashmir. Kamboj urged constructive dialogue and respect, implying Pakistan's remarks were destructive and lacked decorum. She also expressed concern over global attacks on sacred sites, including churches, mosques, and temples. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the two nations at the UN.

Renowned chess legend Garry Kasparov downplayed his recent social media post about Indian politician Rahul Gandhi's chess skills, calling it a "little joke." Kasparov's comment came after his post on Gandhi's chess interest went viral. The former world champion emphasized it was not meant as political advocacy or expertise. Rahul Gandhi, a Congress MP, recently shared a video of himself playing chess, citing Kasparov as his favorite player. The incident sparked online discussion about the intersection of chess and politics. Kasparov retired in 2005 but remains an influential figure in the chess world.

Nepal has printed a new Rs 100 currency note featuring a map that includes disputed territories with India - Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani. The decision was made by the council of ministers, chaired by PM Pushpakamal Dahal Prachanda, following a proposal from Nepal Rastra Bank. The updated map was approved in meetings on April 25 and May 2. The new currency note has been authorized for release, despite India's objections to the inclusion of these territories in Nepal's map. This move is likely to escalate tensions between the two nations.

In a shocking incident, Afghan Consul General Zakia Wardak was caught attempting to smuggle 25 kg of gold worth ₹18.6 crore into India on April 25. Wardak and her son arrived at Mumbai airport from Dubai and used the green channel, indicating they had no declarable luggage. However, DRI officials stopped them and discovered the gold after a search. The duo initially denied carrying any dutiable goods or gold. This incident raises questions about diplomatic immunity and the abuse of power. An investigation is underway.

Canadian police have arrested three Indian men suspected of being part of "Hit Squad" involved in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia last year. The suspects, aged 22-28, were identified and surveilled for months before their arrest in a multi-province operation. Police are investigating their possible ties to the Indian government. The men allegedly played various roles in the assassination, including shooters, drivers, and spotters. More arrests are possible as the investigation continues, with police working with US law enforcement agencies.

India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ruchira Kamboj, highlighted the country's progress in women's leadership in local governance. The Panchayati Raj system, a unique model of decentralised power, has enabled women to play a crucial role in decision-making processes. A constitutional amendment in 1992 reserved at least one-third of elected roles for women, and today, over 1.4 million of the 3.1 million elected representatives are women. This significant increase in women's participation reflects a societal shift towards recognising and valuing women's contributions to governance and community development. India's commitment to gender equality has made it a model for inclusive decision-making processes.

A devastating multi-vehicle collision in Ontario, Canada, has claimed the lives of four people, including an Indian couple and their three-month-old grandson. The couple, aged 60 and 55, were visiting from India. The crash occurred when a police pursuit of a liquor store robbery suspect went wrong, with the suspect driving the wrong way on Highway 401. The suspect, 21, also died in the collision. The infant's parents, 33 and 27, were injured, with the mother in serious condition. The incident has left a community in shock.

Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the Indian government has issued a travel advisory for citizens visiting both countries. The Ministry of External Affairs has urged Indians to "remain vigilant" and stay in touch with the Indian Embassy. The advisory comes after the Indian embassy in Israel issued a similar warning earlier this month, advising citizens to follow local safety protocols. The government is closely monitoring the situation and is in contact with local authorities to ensure the safety of Indian nationals.