India falls one position to 85th in the Henley Passport Index 2024, surprising given increased visa-free access to 62 countries, up from 60 in 2023. France claims the top spot with passport access to 194 countries. Neighbors Pakistan and Bangladesh secure 106th and 102nd positions, respectively. Notably, Maldives ranks 58th, surpassing India. The Henley Passport Index analyzes 19 years of data, highlighting a global shift. In 2006, people had visa-free access to an average of 58 countries; by 2024, that number nearly doubled to 111 countries, marking significant changes in global mobility.

Melvin Thomas, 32, an Indian-American originally from Kerala, was arrested in New Jersey for the murder of his 61-year-old father, Manuel V Thomas. The Paramus Police Department responded to a possible murder report on February 16, discovering Manuel's body in the basement two days after the incident. Melvin faces charges including first-degree murder and desecration of human remains. Residents were alarmed by the police response, as major crimes are rare in the area. Melvin, an alumnus of St Stephen’s College Uzhavoor, called the police himself. The nature of the relationship between the victim and the accused remains undisclosed.    

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, addressing the Munich Security Conference, defended India's decision to continue buying Russian oil amid global tensions. Jaishankar asserted that having multiple options is a smart strategy and not a problem. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken smiled during the panel discussion as Jaishankar emphasized the complexities of international relationships. Jaishankar also highlighted India's strong ties with Western countries, positioning the nation as 'non-West' but not 'anti-West.' In 2023, Russia supplied over 35% of India's crude imports, totaling approximately 1.7 million barrels per day.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, stressed the need for a "permanent fix" to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Advocating for a two-state solution, Jaishankar highlighted the urgency of addressing terrorism and ensuring the security of both Israel and Palestine. He emphasized the Global South's stance against terrorism while underscoring the necessity of advancing towards a two-state solution without delay. Jaishankar's remarks, endorsed by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, underscored the imperative for sustainable humanitarian efforts and long-term resolution to prevent further escalation of violence.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engages with Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly during the 60th Munich Security Conference. The talks centered on the current state of strained bilateral ties between India and Canada. The meeting follows recent allegations by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, accusing India of involvement in a 2023 killing. Jaishankar, in a social media post, highlights the importance of discussing global situations. The Munich Conference sees Jaishankar holding dialogues with various counterparts, including Germany, Argentina, Greece, the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Bulgaria, and Peru.

Pakistan obstructed the '2024 Program of Work' proposed by India at the Conference of Disarmament in Geneva. Despite India's attempt to ensure consensus during its presidency, Pakistan's refusal, linked to its opposition to signing the Fissile-Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) due to perceived impacts on its military stance with India, thwarted the program. The move drew criticism from major nations, including the US, France, Russia, UK, and China. The stalemate reflects Pakistan's longstanding resistance to disarmament discussions, leaving the CD Geneva in deadlock since 2009.

Taiwan and India have inked a deal to bring in Indian migrant workers, aiming to combat labor shortages in Taiwan's manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and fishery sectors. The memorandum of understanding was signed through video conferencing between Taipei Economic, Cultural Center in India, and India Taipei Association. Taiwan, facing a strained workforce and an aging population, seeks to diversify its foreign labor sources beyond Southeast Asia. The Ministry of Labour highlighted the stability and hardworking nature of Indian labor, with a small-scale pilot scheme initiated and potential for more Indian workers based on its success.

To combat fraudulent practices in marriages involving Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Indian citizens, the Law Commission recommends mandatory registration of such unions in India. The panel suggests extending the law to Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders. The proposed law includes provisions on divorce, spousal maintenance, child custody, and serving legal documents to NRIs and OCIs. Amendments to the Passports Act, 1967 are advised to declare marital status and link spouses' passports. Domestic courts would have jurisdiction to address disputes, ensuring fair resolutions. The panel urges government engagement with the diaspora for awareness.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, for the release of eight former Indian Navy personnel. The individuals, employed by Dahra Global, faced detainment in 2022, leading to lengthy prison terms. Modi's visit to Qatar aimed to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on energy and technology collaboration. The diplomatic breakthrough, orchestrated by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, marked a significant moment. Both leaders discussed trade, investment, and regional security, with Modi inviting the Emir to visit India. The leaders explored new areas of cooperation, enhancing the India-Qatar partnership.

Pravin Raojibhai Patel, a 76-year-old Indian-origin motel owner in Alabama, US, was fatally shot during a disagreement over room rental. The incident occurred in Sheffield, with customer William Jeremy Moore arrested shortly after the shooting. Moore, wanting to rent a room, engaged in an argument with Patel, leading to the tragic shooting. Witnesses reported three consecutive gunshots, and Moore was apprehended while attempting to break into a nearby abandoned house. The Asian American Hotel Owners Association condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for community safety. Patel's death adds to recent concerns about the security of the Indian community in the US.