Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:40pm on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
In a new video, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) founder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens former Indian ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, blaming him for the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Pannun offers Rs 25 lakh to anyone targeting Sandhu. Sandhu recently joined BJP. Intelligence sources consider this a serious threat and vow to address it with counterparts. Pannun, an American and Canadian citizen, leads the banned SFJ, wanted by Indian authorities for various terror charges. SFJ operates in the US and is outlawed in India under UAPA for anti-India activities.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:19pm on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a 25-year-old student from Telangana's Malkajgiri district, has been missing since March 7 in Ohio, USA. His family received a ransom call demanding a substantial amount and threatening to sell his kidney. Arfath had left for the US in May last year to pursue a master’s degree in information technology at Cleveland University. His family seeks assistance from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging Indian authorities to inquire about his whereabouts. Concerns rise amid recent mysterious deaths of Indian students in the US. US authorities are investigating the matter.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 03:49pm on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled two-day visit to Bhutan on March 21-22 is postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions over Paro airport. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that new dates for the visit are being coordinated between the two nations. The visit, part of India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy,' aimed to strengthen ties with Bhutan. Bhutanese Prime Minister Tobgay recently visited India. The delay underscores the significance of bilateral relations, rooted in trust and cooperation since 1968. Formalized by the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, India-Bhutan relations remain a priority for both nations.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 03:13pm on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is experiencing a surge in inquiries following Kuwait's announcement of a three-month amnesty scheme for expatriates. The scheme allows residents to rectify residency violations or depart without penalties. As the embassy prioritizes issuing emergency certificates and passports, it maintains other consular services. Expatriates can settle fines or leave the country under the amnesty, effective from March 17 to June 17, coinciding with Ramadan. Those unable to pay fines can depart without penalties but must follow new procedures to return. Failure to comply may lead to deportation and legal penalties.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:12pm on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizes the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the Ukraine conflict during calls with President Zelenskyy and Russia's President Putin. Modi assures India's continued support for peace efforts and humanitarian assistance. Both leaders discuss strengthening India-Ukraine ties, with Zelenskyy acknowledging India's humanitarian aid. Modi congratulates Putin on his re-election, pledging to deepen India-Russia strategic partnership. Putin's landslide victory solidifies his power in Russia. Despite challenges ahead, Putin vows resilience against intimidation. The calls signify India's diplomatic engagement in global peace efforts amidst escalating tensions.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:44pm on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
The High Commission of India in London hosted a vibrant Holi reception on Tuesday, welcoming members of the diplomatic corps, Honorable MPs, Lords, business figures, and other esteemed dignitaries. The evening radiated with the rich cultural heritage of India, featuring lively performances including an energetic Bhangra showcase. Attendees were treated to a display of premium Indian products, ranging from exquisite Pashmina Shawls from Jammu and Kashmir to luxurious Ayurveda products. Additionally, chocolates sourced from Kerala's cacao fields added a sweet touch to the celebration, highlighting the diversity and quality of India's offerings on the global stage.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:02pm on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
India's navy is set to prosecute 35 Somali pirates captured during the hijacking of the Malta-flagged commercial ship MV Ruen off Somalia. The pirates, due to arrive in India on Saturday, will face legal action, marking a departure from India's recent practice of leaving disarmed pirates at sea. The exact charges remain unclear. Indian navy commandos successfully freed the hijacked vessel, marking the first Somali pirate hijacking of a merchant ship since 2017. India has deployed numerous warships in the Gulf of Aden, aiding vessels amid escalating threats from Yemen's Houthi militants.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 10:51am on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election, emphasizing the strengthening of India-Russia partnership. In a telephone conversation, Modi extends best wishes for peace and prosperity while affirming India's consistent stance on the Ukraine-Russia conflict in favor of dialogue and diplomacy. The leaders agree to deepen bilateral cooperation and discuss regional and global issues. Putin's landslide victory underscores his firm grip on power and signals Russia's assertiveness on the global stage, emphasizing resilience against external pressures.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 09:34am on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
Abdul Mohammed, a 25-year-old Hyderabad student pursuing a Master's degree in Information Technology in the United States, has been missing since March 7. His family received a ransom demand of $1,200 from alleged kidnappers, who threatened to sell his kidney if not paid. Cleveland Police are investigating, and a lookout notice has been issued. The family seeks assistance from the Indian consulate in Chicago and urges government intervention for Abdul's safe return. His mother, Abeda, expresses distress over the situation and appeals for swift action.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:51am on 20 Mar 2024,Wednesday India Global
In a significant update to its visa policy, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that Indian citizens meeting specific criteria can now obtain a visa on arrival. Eligible Indian citizens must hold passports, US visit visas or green cards, UK or EU residence visas valid for at least six months. This visa allows for a 14-day stay in the UAE, with the option to extend for another 14 days. The move aims to facilitate easier travel for Indian nationals and strengthen ties between India and the UAE. Interested travelers are encouraged to review the updated guidelines for further information.