Former Indian Ambassador to the US, Dr Taranjit Singh Sandhu, hinted at Amritsar hosting a US consulate, revealing talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The move aligns with a 2016 decision by PM Narendra Modi and then US President Barack Obama to reciprocally open new consulates. Dr Sandhu, known for opening the Indian consulate in Seattle in 2023, emphasized the benefits for border residents and traders. If realized, this would enhance visa services and potentially boost regional trade. The initiative reflects strengthening Indo-US ties, marking a significant development for Amritsar and bilateral relations.

Indian community leaders in Malaysia praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and India's progress under him at a Sadbhavana event in Kuala Lumpur. They lauded Modi's role in India's technological and economic advancement over the past decade and his vision for an inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The event, organized by the Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF), saw the passing of a 'Malaysia Resolution' pledging support for India's development and launching of a book on Modi's dialogues. Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu presided over the event, attended by dignitaries and members of the Indian community.

India and Maldives held their third core group meeting in Male, focusing on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. The military team, operating advanced helicopters, has been replaced by civilian technical experts. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu set a March 10 deadline for the troop withdrawal. Both sides reviewed the deployment of Indian civilian technical personnel for continued operation of aviation platforms in the Maldives. Discussions also covered bilateral cooperation, development projects, trade, and people-to-people linkages. The next high-level core group meeting is scheduled in New Delhi. The move follows strained ties since Muizzu's presidency, marked by promises to reduce Indian military presence.

Indian Navy's INS Kolkata successfully thwarted Somali pirates, rescuing 17 crew members, including seven Bulgarians, from the hijacked MV Ruen in the Arabian Sea. Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Mariya Gabriel thanked India for the operation, to which External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar replied, "That’s what friends are for." The operation, involving special forces and air support, saw the pirates surrendering after being intercepted nearly 1,400 nm from the Indian coast. The Indian Air Force also showcased joint efforts with the Navy. The pirates had opened fire on the Navy before surrendering in international waters.

Unidentified assailants in the US murdered 20-year-old Paruchuri Abhijit, an engineering student at Boston University from Andhra Pradesh’s Guntur district. Abhijit's body was discovered in a car in a forest, sparking suspicions of robbery or a campus quarrel. Described as a bright student, his family initially resisted his decision to study abroad. His remains were repatriated to Burripalem, Guntur. Investigations continue into the motive behind the tragic killing.

Amid a surge in Indian students studying in German universities, Germany aims to tackle its labor market shortages by making it more attractive for Indian graduates. With Indian students forming the largest international student community in Germany, the Skilled Immigration Act facilitates smoother pathways for Indian graduates into the labor market. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee, president of DAAD, highlighted the growth of Indian students in Germany and emphasized the concept of brain circulation. Additionally, the new act allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week, expanding opportunities for Indian students seeking employment in Germany.

India dismisses US worries about its religion-based citizenship law, calling them "wrong" and "unnecessary". The law, granting citizenship to non-Muslim refugees, has stirred protests amid claims of discrimination. India defends the law, saying it upholds religious freedom and offers refuge to persecuted minorities. US State Department's comments on monitoring implementation are rebuffed by India, emphasizing the law's alignment with India's inclusive values. Tensions rise as India prepares for general elections, with the citizenship law stirring debate over its impact on religious and democratic principles.

'Overseas Friends' of BJP UK organized a car rally in London, showcasing unwavering support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling party ahead of the Indian Lok Sabha elections. Over 250 cars participated, with members of the diaspora waving Indian Tricolours and BJP flags. British MP Bob Blackman addressed the crowd, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora in shaping India's future. The event highlights growing Indo-UK ties, with discussions ongoing for a Free Trade Agreement. As India prepares for the polls, overseas support underscores the global significance of Indian politics.

The Maldives tourism industry is reeling from a significant decline in Indian tourist arrivals, attributed to social media controversies and derogatory remarks against India. Formerly a top source of visitors, India's retreat to sixth place in 2024 has sparked concerns about the archipelago's tourism-dependent economy. With Indian arrivals dropping by 33%, industry experts warn of substantial revenue losses, estimated at over USD 1.8 to 2 billion. Efforts to mend relations with India, including the resumption of direct flights, are underway, highlighting the crucial role of Indian visitors in sustaining the Maldives' tourism sector during off-peak seasons.

In a swift and coordinated effort, the Indian Navy successfully rescued 17 crew members from the hijacked merchant ship MV Ruen, located approximately 1,400 nautical miles from the Indian coast. Employing a combination of maritime patrol aircraft, frontline ships, and unmanned aerial vehicles, the Navy compelled 35 pirates aboard the vessel to surrender. The operation, spanning 40 hours, concluded with the safe evacuation of the crew without any injuries reported. This decisive action demonstrates the Navy's commitment to combating piracy and ensuring the safety of maritime activities in the region.