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.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in talks with Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, in Doha, aiming to strengthen the bond between India and Qatar. This encounter follows the recent release of eight former Indian Navy veterans, previously sentenced to death in Qatar on espionage charges. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the constructive dialogue between the leaders, focusing on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, energy, finance, and technology. Additionally, discussions encompassed developments in West Asia, emphasizing the importance of regional peace and stability. Modi's visit signifies a diplomatic milestone post the veterans' release, underlining India-Qatar relations' significance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauds the United Arab Emirates for a momentous occasion as the grand BAPS Hindu Mandir is inaugurated in Abu Dhabi. Addressing the event, Modi declares, "Today, the United Arab Emirates has written a golden chapter in human history." He emphasizes the temple's significance, symbolizing unity and harmony. Invoking blessings for humanity's enlightenment and progress on Basant Panchami, Modi reminisces his bond with Pramukh Swami Maharaj and acknowledges UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's role. The UAE minister echoes Modi's sentiment, highlighting the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

India and the UAE have forged a pact to expedite the implementation of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) despite ongoing regional conflicts. The agreement, discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Gulf region, aims to bolster regional connectivity. The IMEC, envisioned during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi, will establish vital trade links between India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe, offering a significant alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative. The agreement prioritizes cooperation in logistics platforms and digital infrastructure projects, highlighting a commitment to enhancing economic ties. Modi's visit also includes significant diplomatic engagements and the inauguration of a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, underscoring India's expanding regional influence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates. Ahead of the inauguration, PM Modi offered prayers inside the temple premises and poured water into virtual representations of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. The grand pink sandstone temple sprawls across a 27-acre plot, symbolizing enduring values of harmony, peace, and tolerance shared between India and the UAE. The event witnessed the presence of Indian government officials, Bollywood stars, and members of the Ambani family, emphasizing the significance of the occasion.

Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa adorned the Indian Tricolour as a warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is set to address the World Government Summit. The display, featuring 'Guest of Honor - Republic of India,' reflected the enduring bond between nations, celebrated by Dubai's Crown Prince. Acknowledging India's role as a distinguished guest, he emphasized the country's innovative projects showcased at the international event. PM Modi, invited by UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will also inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir during his two-day official visit. The gesture echoes the Burj Khalifa's earlier tribute on India's 77th Independence Day.