The U.S. Consulate in Kolkata currently has the shortest wait time for B1/B2 visas in India, at just 24 days. This is significantly faster than other consulates, where wait times range from 386 days in Delhi to 477 days in Chennai. Despite efforts to reduce visa wait times, including processing a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in 2023 and cutting wait times by 75%, delays persist. Travelers needing visas for business or tourism may find Kolkata to be the quickest option in the country.

Birju Dattani, an Indian-origin appointee for Canada’s Chief Commissioner for Human Rights, resigned before assuming office due to allegations of anti-Semitism. The controversy erupted when it was revealed that Dattani, who converted to Islam and adopted the name "Mujahid Dattani," had not disclosed this name change during his background check. Despite an investigation finding no evidence of anti-Semitic beliefs, Dattani chose to step down, citing his commitment to the Commission's integrity. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) had called for the investigation. Charlotte-Anne Malischewski will continue as interim commissioner.

Vinay Mohan Kwatra officially took charge as India’s Ambassador to the United States on August 12, 2024. Kwatra, a former Foreign Secretary, succeeds Taranjit Singh Sandhu in this pivotal role. In his announcement on X, Kwatra expressed his commitment to strengthening the partnership between India and the US. Previously, he served as Minister of Commerce at the Indian Embassy in Washington. His appointment marks a significant step in bolstering diplomatic relations between the two nations, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation and addressing mutual interests.

The United States edged out China to top the Paris Olympics medal table, finishing with 126 medals, including 40 golds. China also secured 40 golds but trailed in total medals with 91. The USA’s final gold came from the women’s basketball team, who clinched victory over France 67-66. India finished 71st with 6 medals, including a silver and five bronze. China dominated in pool sports and weightlifting, while the USA excelled in track and field. Japan, placing third, defied predictions with 45 medals.

In Cooch Behar, West Bengal, a BSF jawan pleaded with hundreds of Bangladeshi nationals camped at the border, urging them to wait for a resolution through dialogue rather than attempting illegal entry. “Please listen to me, nothing will come out of shouting,” the jawan said, emphasizing that the situation requires discussion with Bangladesh authorities. Despite heightened vigilance and recent apprehensions of eleven Bangladeshis at various borders, the BSF stressed that entry will only be permitted following proper verification. Assam DGP G P Singh confirmed that legal entrants, like students and traders, will be allowed with valid documents.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in Male on Saturday during a three-day visit aimed at resetting bilateral ties. This is the first high-level visit from India since Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, assumed office last year. Jaishankar conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's greetings and emphasized New Delhi's commitment to deepening India-Maldives relations for the benefit of both nations and the region. This visit follows Muizzu's trip to India in June, where he attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony. The Maldives remains a key maritime neighbor for India in the Indian Ocean region.

Air India has indefinitely suspended all flights to and from Tel Aviv due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The decision comes after the airline had temporarily halted operations earlier this year, only resuming in March. The suspension follows increased geopolitical unrest, including the assassination of key Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. Air India stated that the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority and offered full refunds to affected travelers. Many international airlines have also reduced or canceled flights to Israel as the conflict continues to escalate.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, expressed dissatisfaction with India for hosting ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after she fled Dhaka. Senior BNP leader Gayeshwar Roy emphasized the need for mutual cooperation between Bangladesh and India but criticized India's support for Hasina, labeling it as detrimental to bilateral relations. He questioned India's role in promoting a single party rather than the entire nation. Despite these tensions, Roy reaffirmed BNP's commitment to upholding individual rights and maintaining positive relations with India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus on his appointment as Bangladesh's interim leader, following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid mass protests. In a message on social media, PM Modi stressed the importance of protecting Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh during this transitional period. He also reaffirmed India's commitment to collaborating with Bangladesh to achieve mutual goals of peace, security, and development. Yunus, an economist and microfinance pioneer, took charge on Tuesday after Hasina fled to India. The new leadership in Bangladesh marks a significant shift, drawing attention from regional powers.

Deepali Kannoujia, a 16-year-old student from Lucknow, has secured a prestigious US Department of State Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study scholarship. Living in a one-room house and helping her mother, a washerwoman, Deepali is excited about the opportunity to study in the US. Selected among 30 students from India, she will spend an academic year learning about different cultures. Her mother, Suman, expressed mixed feelings about Deepali’s departure but is proud of her achievement. Deepali, currently a Class X student at Prerna Girls' School, will leave for the US on August 19.