Sourajit Debnath, a former space scientist from India's ISRO, now representing Imperial College London, advances to the BBC's 'University Challenge' grand final. Debnath, part of a well-rounded team, showcases expertise in maths, physics, and pop culture. He contributed significantly, including correctly answering questions with Indian cultural references. Debnath transitioned from space science to computational science, highlighting challenges for international students in accessing doctoral funding in the UK. Described as "TV's toughest quiz team tournament," 'University Challenge' showcases top university students competing for the quiz championship.

In a devastating accident in Oregon, Kakkera Geethanjali, 32, and her four-year-old daughter lost their lives. Geethanjali, from Hillsboro, failed to obey a stop sign, resulting in a collision with Benjamin Hernandez-Lopez's Jeep Liberty. Geethanjali's daughter was pronounced dead at the scene, while Geethanjali was critically injured. Nareshbabu Kamathman, 36, and another juvenile sustained serious injuries. Both Geethanjali and Nareshbabu were software engineers from Andhra Pradesh, India. The collision caused a five-hour closure of the highway, with multiple agencies assisting in the investigation. The occupants of the Jeep sustained minor injuries in the tragic incident.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that two Indians reported missing after the Taiwan earthquake are safe. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government is now in contact with them. The individuals, a man and a woman, were last seen in Taroko Gorge near the earthquake's epicenter. Following the tremors, the Indian Taipei Association set up an emergency helpline for Indians in Taiwan. The MEA urged Indians to follow local authorities' instructions. The update brings relief after concerns arose about the missing individuals' safety in the aftermath of the quake.      

Japan introduces e-Visa program for Indian tourists, streamlining the visa application process for short-term tourism. Eligible countries include Australia, Brazil, Canada, USA, and more. The single-entry visa grants up to 90 days of validity and is specifically for air travelers with ordinary passports. Applicants can apply via the Japan e-Visa website, submitting necessary documents and information online. Visa fees are paid electronically, and issuance occurs after verification. Some applicants may require an in-person interview at a Japanese overseas establishment. The program aims to facilitate smoother travel arrangements for Indian tourists visiting Japan.

Two senior US treasury officials visit India to emphasize the importance of maintaining the implementation of the oil price cap aimed at limiting profits to Russia. Acting Assistant Secretary Anna Morris and PDO Assistant Secretary Eric Van Nostrand discuss bilateral issues, including anti-money laundering efforts and countering financing of terrorism. The price cap, implemented by G7 nations and allies post-Russia's Ukraine invasion, aims to curb Russian profits while ensuring stable global energy markets. Despite India's strong ties with Russia, it's urged to uphold the cap amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.        

Fintech firm PhonePe announces users can utilize UPI for payments in Singapore, following a partnership with The Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Leveraging the existing UPI linkage between India and Singapore, users can make cross-border transactions directly from Indian bank accounts. The two-year collaboration aims to enhance the visitor experience by promoting seamless UPI payments across key tourism destinations. STB and PhonePe will jointly invest in marketing efforts in India and Singapore. Indian travellers can now make instant, secure payments at over 8,000 merchants in Singapore through the PhonePe app, facilitating a smoother experience in the island city.

Two Indians, a man, and a woman, are missing after the devastating earthquake in Taiwan. They were last seen near the epicenter in Taroko Gorge. Search operations are ongoing as the death toll rises to nine, with over 1,000 injured. In rural Hualien County, buildings lean at severe angles, while in Taipei, schools evacuate students to sports fields. Rescue workers scramble to locate trapped individuals, while landslides and infrastructure damage add to the chaos. Despite challenges, efforts continue to locate the missing Indians and provide aid in the aftermath of Taiwan's strongest quake in 25 years.      

More than 60 Indian workers have landed in Israel under a government-to-government agreement aimed at addressing the country's construction labor shortage. The deal aims to bypass middlemen, ensuring fair recruitment through Israeli-led screening tests. Despite bureaucratic delays, the arrival signals progress in the partnership. Israeli authorities commit to expediting procedures to bring in over 20,000 pre-approved workers from India and Sri Lanka. The move aligns with previous discussions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

NRI woman from Andhra Pradesh, Kamatham Gitanjali, and her daughter Hanika, 5, died in a car accident while heading to a temple in Portland, US, for Gitanjali's birthday prayers. Gitanjali failed to stop at a sign, colliding with another vehicle. She was declared brain-dead, and Hanika died at the scene. Gitanjali's husband Naresh and son Braman were injured. Fundraising efforts aim to support the family, who have lived in the US for a decade. Donations exceed $150,000, with plans to transport Gitanjali's remains to India for final rites.

Sangita Jindal, president of Art India and chairperson of JSW Foundation, has been elected as the new Chair of the Asia Society India Centre Board, effective April 1, 2024. Recognized for her transformative contributions to contemporary art in India and South Asia, Jindal's appointment signifies a pivotal moment for the organization. With two decades of leadership at JSW Foundation and a wealth of experience in cultural conservation, Jindal aims to strengthen the Asia Society's impact in South Asia. Her diverse achievements and global engagement underscore her commitment to advancing arts, culture, and community development initiatives.