The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa-on-arrival facility for Indian nationals, now including travelers from six additional countries. This initiative aims to bolster tourism and business ties between India and the UAE. Eligible Indian passport holders can obtain a 14-day visa, extendable for an additional 14 days, or a 60-day non-extendable visa upon arrival. To qualify, travelers must possess a valid passport with at least six months' validity and meet specific criteria set by UAE authorities.

Over 100 Indian migrants have been deported from the United States, recounting harrowing journeys through perilous 'donkey routes' to reach their destination. These individuals traversed dense jungles, crossed treacherous terrains, and endured life-threatening conditions, including walking 45 kilometers and witnessing fatalities along the way. Many were deceived by agents who promised legal entry into the U.S., only to be subjected to dangerous and illegal paths. Upon arrival, they faced detention in dark cells and were eventually deported back to India, highlighting the severe risks associated with illegal immigration.

After being deported from the US, 117 illegal immigrants arrived at Amritsar airport, sharing their distressing experience of being shackled and handcuffed during their 66-hour journey. Most deportees, including men, expressed resentment over the restraints, though some acknowledged they were for safety reasons due to fragile emotional states. Many of the deportees, including Mandeep and Mantaj, faced depression and hopelessness. The Indian government has been engaging with US authorities to ensure deportees' treatment is respectful, as per the US standard procedure for deportation since 2012, which includes the use of restraints.

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has canceled a $21 million grant aimed at boosting voter turnout in India, citing a reduction in wasteful spending. Other cuts include $29 million for political strengthening in Bangladesh and $40 million for a gender equality hub. BJP has criticized the move, calling it external interference in India's elections. This aligns with DOGE's mission to eliminate unnecessary government expenses, though its actions have raised concerns about transparency and Musk's influence over public funds.

The Punjab Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested an immigration agent in connection with a complaint from a U.S. deportee. This marks the first arrest following allegations from individuals deported from the U.S. The SIT, led by ADGP NRI Affairs Praveen Sinha, is investigating complaints from deportees who were defrauded by travel agents. The team has recorded statements of deportees and registered FIRs against fraudulent travel agents. DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav urged citizens to come forward with information to help arrest the culprits.

On February 16, 2025, a US military aircraft carrying 157 Indian deportees landed at Amritsar's Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport. This marks the third group repatriated under the Trump administration's intensified crackdown on illegal immigration. The majority of these individuals are from Haryana. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed concerns over Amritsar being used as a deportation hub, emphasizing the city's cultural and religious significance. Earlier deportations included 104 individuals on February 5 and 117 on February 15. Reports indicate that deportees were handcuffed during transit, prompting condemnation from various political parties and organizations.   

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticised the West for its "double standards" on democracy at the Munich Security Conference. He said, "The West treated democracy as a Western characteristic and was busy encouraging non-democratic forces in the Global South." Urging Western nations to respect diverse democratic models, he added, "If you want democracy to prevail, embrace successful models outside the West." Jaishankar also defended India's Russian oil purchases, arguing, "If I am smart enough to have multiple options, you should be admiring me." He emphasized that democracy in India ensures food for millions, countering Western skepticism.

US military plane carrying 119 Indian deportees landed at Amritsar airport on Saturday at 11:40 pm. This is the second batch of deportees, following 104 Indians sent back on February 5. A third plane with 157 deportees is expected on Sunday. Most deportees are from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat. They were restrained during the flight, sparking political debate in India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar assured talks with the US on humane treatment. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann criticised the Centre for turning Amritsar into a “deport centre.” Many deportees had tried to enter the US for a better life.

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited the Taj Mahal on Saturday with his wife, Akshata Murty, mother-in-law, Sudha Murty, and daughters, Krishna and Anoushka. He praised the monument, calling it a "breathtaking visit" and an "unforgettable experience." Sunak and his family signed the visitor book and greeted the crowd with folded hands. Security was tight as people gathered to see them. Earlier, Sunak attended a cricket match in Mumbai and the Jaipur Literature Festival. He served as UK Prime Minister from 2022 to 2024 and previously worked in business and finance before joining politics.

A Johns Hopkins University study found Punjabi speakers made up 66% of Indian asylum-seekers in the US from 2001-2022. However, between 2017-2022, Hindi-speaking asylum claims rose by 30%. The US has intensified deportations, with 104 undocumented Indians sent back on February 5 and more flights expected. Indian asylum claims surged 470% in five years, from 6,000 in 2020 to 51,000 in 2023. Economic hardship and changing immigration policies drive this trend. The US has also shut down the CBP One app, canceling 300,000 migrant appointments.