India criticized the Canadian Parliament's June 18 tribute to Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistani activist. Nijjar was killed a year ago, and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau had implicated India, straining diplomatic ties. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s stance against political support for extremism and urged Canada to act against anti-India activities. He condemned the formation of Khalistani 'Citizen’s Courts' in Canada, demanding Ottawa curb extremist elements and their gatherings.

India has demanded a "verified stop" to the recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army after the deaths of four Indians on the Ukraine frontlines. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that discussions are ongoing with Russian authorities to repatriate Indians and ensure no further recruitment. Reports indicate up to 100 Indians were recruited, often misled by promises of high-paying jobs. India is also coordinating with Russia for the return of the bodies of the deceased. The Indian government has urged citizens to exercise caution regarding employment opportunities in Russia.

Four members of the Hinduja family were sentenced to up to 4.5 years in prison by a Swiss court for exploiting their servants. Prakash Hinduja and his wife Kamal received 4.5-year sentences, while their son Ajay and his wife Namrata were sentenced to four years each. The court rejected human trafficking charges but found the family guilty of underpaying and overworking their staff at their Lake Geneva villa. The workers received less than one-tenth of the standard pay and minimal health benefits. The Hinduja family plans to appeal the ruling.

The Indian Embassy in Washington celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga on June 16 at the Wharf, overlooking the Potomac River. The event started with Indian classical dance performances, followed by a yoga session promoting "Yoga for Self and Society." Deputy Indian Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan highlighted yoga's global appeal and its 5,000-year history. She emphasized yoga's role in promoting harmony and balance. The program also encouraged the use of millets and eco-friendly practices. The Embassy and Consulates across the US organized various events leading up to the celebration.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers, led by Congressman Michael McCaul and Nancy Pelosi, visited the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, India, prompting strong criticism from China. The meeting follows US Congress passing a bill urging talks between China and Tibetan leaders, frozen since 2010. Pelosi affirmed the bill's impending signing by President Biden, emphasizing US support for Tibet's freedom. China's embassy in India condemned the visit, labeling the Dalai Lama a political exile engaged in separatist activities. The Tibetan leader, advocating peace, stepped down from political duties in 2011.

India has denied allegations by French journalist Sébastien Farcis that he was forced to leave the country after his work permit was denied. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that Farcis, an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder, had applied for a work permit in May 2024, and the application is still under consideration. Jaiswal emphasized that the decision to leave India was Farcis's choice. Farcis, who has been in India for over 13 years, claimed he left after difficulties in obtaining the permit, which the MEA firmly denies.

India has lodged a strong protest with Canada over Khalistani extremists staging a "citizens court" and burning an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver. The protest follows a Canadian parliamentary tribute to slain Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, further straining bilateral relations. India's diplomatic note to the Canadian High Commission expressed serious concerns about the Trudeau government's tolerance of pro-Khalistan activities on Canadian soil. The incident underscores ongoing tensions, with India urging Ottawa to take decisive action against these extremist elements.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that 98 Indian pilgrims are among the hundreds who died during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca due to extreme heat, natural causes, and chronic illnesses. With over 175,000 Indians participating in this year’s pilgrimage, the deaths highlight the severe conditions faced by the faithful. Despite the lack of an official death toll from Saudi Arabia, other countries like Jordan and Tunisia have also reported fatalities. The Hajj, a key religious duty for Muslims, saw over 1.83 million participants this year, concluding on Wednesday.

At least 98 Indian pilgrims have died during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, the government announced. The deaths were attributed to "natural causes". Globally, 1,081 pilgrims from 10 countries have lost their lives during the holy journey. The Hajj, a mandatory religious duty for Muslims, took place during the scorching Saudi summer, with temperatures reaching 125°F. The World Health Organization estimates that heat kills over 500,000 people annually, with the actual figure potentially being much higher. The pilgrimage involves hours of walking and praying, posing health risks to devotees.

A recent UNICEF report has shed light on the dire state of child food poverty worldwide. One in four children globally suffers from severe food poverty, surviving on a limited diet that puts them at risk of severe malnutrition. This affects 181 million children, with 65% residing in just 20 countries, including India, Afghanistan, and Ethiopia. South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa are among the worst-hit regions. The report categorizes India as high-risk, with 64 million children affected in South Asia alone. The UNICEF report urges immediate attention to address this critical issue impacting children's growth, development, and overall well-being.