Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the NXT Conclave for the launch of 'NewsX World' channel, emphasized that India's 'vocal for local' initiative is yielding global recognition for Indian products. He highlighted the nation's evolution from being perceived as the world's back office to emerging as a global manufacturing hub, asserting that India is now a "world force." Modi noted advancements in semiconductor and aircraft carrier production, and the international embrace of Indian superfoods like 'makhana' and millets, as well as Ayush products and yoga. He also mentioned India's significant strides in automobile manufacturing and rising defense exports. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of presenting India's authentic stories to the world, reflecting the country's growing global initiatives and positive developments.

February saw the UK-India defence relationship reach new heights with major agreements at Aero India 2025. The UK delegation, led by Vernon Coaker, signed key deals to enhance bilateral cooperation. The launch of Defence Partnership – India (DP-I) establishes a dedicated programme office at Defence HQ to streamline collaboration. A landmark Thales-BDL agreement will deliver High Velocity Missiles and co-develop Lightweight Multirole Missiles in India. The new ASRAAM assembly facility in Hyderabad boosts India’s missile manufacturing and exports. A maritime technology pact will advance Integrated Full Electric Propulsion systems. These initiatives will drive joint development, job creation, and strengthened supply chains.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis received a threatening WhatsApp message from a Pakistani number, allegedly from one Malik Shahbaz Humayun Raza, warning of an attack. Mumbai Police have initiated an investigation to trace the sender and evaluate the threat's authenticity, enhancing security measures for the CM. In a related incident, two individuals were arrested for sending a bomb threat to Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. The suspects, Mangesh Wayal and Abhay Shingane, were detained following an investigation by the Mumbai Police and Buldhana Police. The threats, which raised concerns, are currently under further scrutiny as authorities pursue leads on potential motives and affiliations.

The US Embassy granted visas to Nilam Shinde's family after she suffered severe injuries in a road accident in California. Nilam, a 35-year-old student at California State University, is in a coma after being struck by a speeding vehicle. The accident caused multiple fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Nilam's father and brother, who attended a visa interview in Mumbai, are now authorized to visit her in Sacramento. The Indian consulate in San Francisco has been actively involved, offering support and staying in contact with Nilam’s medical team. MP Supriya Sule raised the issue with the Ministry of External Affairs to expedite the visa process.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited Kolkata-born chef Asma Khan at her Darjeeling Express restaurant in London. The royals joined a pre-Ramadan gathering, helping pack chicken biryani and dates for hospital iftar donations. Asma Khan, known for her celebrated Kolkata biryani, shared that the King humorously remarked, “I may be past my sell-by date,” when offered a packing job. The visit, which highlighted the King’s appreciation for culinary heritage and charitable causes, comes ahead of Ramadan celebrations, emphasizing the spirit of giving during the holy month.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited London’s Darjeeling Express, owned by British-Indian chef Asma Khan, to participate in Ramadan preparations. The royal couple helped pack dates and biryani boxes for donation to hospitals. A video shared by the royal family showed Charles and Camilla interacting with staff and assisting an all-female kitchen team. "You're packing dates faster than I can seal them," Khan joked. The event highlighted Ramadan’s significance and the contributions of Muslim women. The King and Queen emphasized the importance of charity and community during the holy month. [Video Courtesy: X/@Saudi_Gazette]

Nilam Shinde, a student injured in a tragic accident, has secured a U.S. visa interview slot. Her father expressed profound gratitude, stating, "This is a huge relief for us." He emphasized the importance of the interview in facilitating Nilam's medical treatment in the U.S., highlighting the family's hope for her recovery. The Shinde family has been navigating the complexities of medical procedures and visa processes, and this development marks a significant step toward Nilam's treatment and recovery.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla recently visited Darjeeling Express, an Indian restaurant in London, to contribute to Ramadan preparations. The royal couple helped pack dates and biryani boxes that will be donated for Iftaar. Their visit highlighted the significance of Ramadan, and they worked alongside the restaurant's all-female kitchen staff. In a shared video, the King and Queen were seen packing dates using tongs and joking with chef-owner Asma Khan about their speed. The royal family’s social media emphasized the importance of Ramadan, celebrating Muslim women’s creativity and diversity while underscoring the beauty of the holy month.

India has contacted the U.S. government to expedite visa applications for the family of Nilam Shinde, an Indian student injured in a recent incident. The Indian Embassy in Washington is actively coordinating with U.S. authorities to facilitate the family's travel. Nilam Shinde, a student at a U.S. university, sustained injuries in an accident, prompting the need for her family's presence. The Indian government's intervention underscores its commitment to supporting citizens abroad during emergencies. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the family's timely arrival in the U.S.

  At the 58th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Indian diplomat Kshitij Tyagi criticized Pakistan, labeling it a "failed state" that "thrives on instability and survives on international handouts." Tyagi condemned Pakistan for disseminating falsehoods and misusing the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation as a "mouthpiece" against India. He reaffirmed that Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India, highlighting the regions' recent political, social, and economic advancements. Tyagi also accused Pakistan of human rights abuses, minority persecution, and sheltering UN-sanctioned terrorists, urging Islamabad to address its internal issues rather than interfering in India's affairs.