On February 26, 2025, a terrorist attack occurred in the Sunderbani area of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir. Militants fired one or two rounds at an army vehicle on patrol near Phall village, located along Sunderbani-Malla Road. The vehicle, part of the 9 JAK Rifles, was unscathed, with no reported casualties. The area, known for militant activity, was swiftly cordoned off, and a search operation was launched. Reinforcements have been deployed as the army remains on high alert. Authorities have not yet provided further details on the incident.

The Border Security Force (BSF) shot a Pakistani intruder attempting to cross the International Border (IB) at Pathankot during the early hours. Despite being challenged by troops, the intruder continued moving, prompting the BSF to neutralize the threat. The identity and motives of the intruder are under investigation. The BSF has vowed to lodge a formal protest with Pakistani Rangers. This incident follows recent escalations, including retaliatory firing by the Indian Army at Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LoC). The situation highlights ongoing tensions and security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.

President Trump announced a new gold card visa program, aimed at wealthy immigrants, which could disrupt Indian applicants seeking U.S. green cards via the EB-5 route. The gold card, costing $5 million, will offer a pathway to U.S. citizenship, promoting job creation and high economic contributions. This scheme will replace the EB-5 visa, which currently requires a lower investment of $1.05 million for applicants to obtain green cards by funding businesses and creating jobs. Critics, like immigration reform advocate Ajay Bhutoria, argue the scheme unfairly prioritizes the ultra-wealthy while ignoring skilled workers trapped in decades-long green card backlogs.

India has banned the production and export of opioids tapentadol and carisoprodol, following a report highlighting their role in West Africa's opioid crisis. Aveo Pharmaceuticals, based in Mumbai, was found illegally exporting these drugs to Nigeria, Ghana, and the Ivory Coast. A BBC investigation revealed that Aveo was aware of the drugs' harmful effects but continued their distribution due to high profits. Following a factory raid and stock seizure, the Indian government halted Aveo’s operations and revoked its manufacturing licenses. The move aims to curb the drug abuse crisis, particularly in Nigeria, where millions suffer from opioid addiction.

The United States has sanctioned four Indian companies for their alleged involvement in facilitating Iranian oil exports, part of an ongoing US campaign against Tehran's oil trade. Austinship Management Pvt Ltd, BSM Marine LLP, Cosmos Lines Inc, and Flux Maritime LLP were accused of aiding the transportation of Iranian petroleum products. The sanctions are aimed at reducing Iran’s oil exports, as part of a broader effort to target Iran's destabilizing activities. This move, which could impact India's energy trade, has yet to elicit an official response from New Delhi.

Two deportees from Punjab recounted being forced by armed smugglers to illegally enter the US from Mexico, despite their objections. The smugglers, known as "daunkers," threatened them with guns, compelling them to cross into the US in February. While detained in Panama, the deportees faced harsh conditions, including confiscated passports, high security, and restrictions. Many detainees, including Indians and others, awaited the issuance of emergency certificates to return to their countries. The ordeal was made worse by mistreatment at US detention centers, where guards denied sleep and enforced severe conditions.

In a significant policy shift, the United States aligned with Russia to oppose a UN resolution condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The resolution, introduced by Ukraine, called for Russia's immediate withdrawal and cessation of attacks on civilians. Despite the U.S. opposition, the UN General Assembly adopted the resolution with 93 votes in favor, 18 against, and 62 abstentions. Notably, India abstained from voting, maintaining its neutral stance on the conflict. This development underscores the evolving dynamics within the UN regarding the Ukraine crisis.

India has resumed trade negotiations with the UK and the EU, aiming to finalize free trade agreements (FTAs) amid escalating U.S. tariff threats. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds are leading discussions in New Delhi, focusing on sectors like advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and financial services. The UK seeks reduced tariffs and improved access for services, while India advocates for easier visa processing and exemptions from the UK's forthcoming carbon tax. These talks are crucial as India is projected to become the world's third-largest economy by 2028.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has cautioned Bangladesh over its inconsistent stance on India, calling out “ridiculous” claims made by its interim leaders. Speaking at a public event, he said Dhaka must “make up its mind” on its relationship with India instead of blaming New Delhi for its domestic issues. He also raised concerns over communal attacks on minorities and Pakistan’s growing influence in Bangladesh. During his meeting with Bangladeshi Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain in Muscat, Jaishankar warned Dhaka against normalizing terrorism. He reiterated India’s message that it seeks stability but won’t tolerate hostile rhetoric from Bangladesh.

Canada has changed its immigration rules, allowing officials to cancel study and work visas under certain conditions. This could impact thousands of Indian students and workers. The new rule applies if a person gives false information, becomes ineligible, or is not expected to leave Canada on time. Canada recently ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa programme, making it harder for Indian students. The government says affected people will be informed, but many fear financial losses and uncertainty. With over 4.2 lakh Indian students in Canada, this rule change may create big challenges for them.