Indian students who left the U.S. amid F-1 visa revocations and SEVIS terminations now find their SEVIS records quietly reinstated. However, with visas still revoked, they remain stranded in India, unable to return. Many departed fearing detention or deportation after minor infractions, such as dismissed charges or traffic violations, led to SEVIS terminations. One student from Telangana left after a brief arrest over a housemate dispute, only to discover his SEVIS status restored days later. Despite reinstated SEVIS records, the absence of valid visas leaves students in limbo, uncertain about their future and unable to resume studies in the U.S. (PC: AP & Education)

On May 2, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a landmark exercise on Uttar Pradesh's under-construction Ganga Expressway, showcasing its operational readiness by performing both day and night landings and take-offs. This marked India's first expressway equipped for nocturnal fighter jet operations, enhancing its strategic infrastructure. The drill featured aircraft such as the Rafale, SU-30 MKI, and Mirage-2000, demonstrating the expressway's potential as an emergency runway during national crises. Locals and students gathered to witness the spectacle, capturing the event on social media. The exercise underscores India's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities amid escalating regional tensions. (PC: EurAsian Times & CNBC)

On May 2, 2025, Delhi University's Standing Committee on Academic Affairs, led by Shri Prakash Singh, objected to a draft undergraduate psychology syllabus that included the Israel-Palestine conflict and the Kashmir issue under 'Conflict Resolution'. Singh asserted that the Kashmir issue has been resolved and suggested replacing these topics with teachings from the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita to better understand the psychology of peace. This revision is part of the university's ongoing syllabus overhaul following the 2022 introduction of a four-year undergraduate program under the National Education Policy. The revised syllabus will proceed to the Academic Council for final approval. (PC: The Times of India & Hindustan Times)

Former India coach Greg Chappell has urged the BCCI to nurture 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who recently made headlines with a 35-ball century in the IPL, making it the second-fastest in the tournament's history. Chappell emphasized the importance of providing Suryavanshi with a robust support system, akin to what Sachin Tendulkar had, to ensure his talent is cultivated responsibly. He cautioned against the pitfalls that befell prodigies like Vinod Kambli and Prithvi Shaw, whose careers were marred by off-field issues and lack of guidance. Chappell's message underscores the need for careful management of young talents to prevent premature burnout and to foster long-term success in Indian cricket. (PC: NDTV Sports & Hindustan Times)

In the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 26 civilians, India has intensified its crackdown on Pakistani digital platforms. The Indian government has blocked the X (formerly Twitter) account of Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, following his claim that India staged the attack to create regional crisis. This action follows the blocking of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels accused of spreading misleading content. Asif's allegations, amplified by Pakistani users through hashtags like #IndianFalseFlag, have further strained India-Pakistan relations. Pakistan's Information Minister Ataullah Tarar's social media account was withheld in India after he warned of an impending military strike. In his April 30 presser, Mr Tarar claimed he had "credible information" that India is planning a military action in the next 24-36 hours. He also warned of "catastrophic consequences" if the Indian forces initiate an action. The Indian government continues to monitor and counteract online misinformation amid escalating tensions between the two nations. (PC: Associated Press of Pakistan)

Karnataka Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna has ignited controversy by stating that individuals chanting pro-Pakistan slogans should be "shot dead." This comment follows allegations that Congress supporters shouted "Pakistan Zindabad" in the Vidhana Soudha after Rajya Sabha election results. Three arrests have been made, and a Forensic Science Laboratory investigation is underway. Rajanna also endorsed Uttar Pradesh's stringent law enforcement measures, including demolishing properties of accused individuals, to curb anti-social activities. The BJP has intensified demands for the Congress government's dismissal, citing compromised state security. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has promised strict action if the allegations are confirmed. The incident has escalated political tensions, with opposition parties accusing the Congress of endangering Karnataka's safety. (PC: Instagram)

Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis has strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives. The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including 25 tourists and a local pony operator. The Resistance Front, linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility but later retracted. The assault has intensified tensions between India and Pakistan, with both nations taking retaliatory diplomatic measures. Global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have joined in condemning the attack, emphasizing the need for international cooperation against terrorism.

A tragic stampede occurred during the Shree Devi Lairai Jatra at the Lairai Devi temple in Shirgao, Goa, resulting in at least six fatalities and over 60 injuries. The incident unfolded amid a large gathering of devotees. Emergency services promptly responded, deploying ambulances and transferring the injured to nearby hospitals. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Health Minister Vishwajit Rane are overseeing the situation. Despite the deployment of approximately 1,000 police personnel and drone surveillance for crowd management, the cause of the stampede remains under investigation. The annual jatra, known for its fire-walking ritual, had attracted thousands of participants. Authorities continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. (PC: Times Content & It’s Goa)

The Indian government has blocked Instagram accounts of prominent Pakistani cricketers, including Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, citing legal compliance. This action follows the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities and was linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba. Instagram users in India attempting to access these profiles now see a message stating, "Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content." The move is part of a broader effort to limit digital content associated with Pakistan, with YouTube also suspending accounts of Pakistani cricketers like Shoaib Akhtar and Shahid Afridi for allegedly spreading provocative content. (PC: Hindustan Times)

In the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam attack, where 26 civilians were killed, India has urged the IMF to review its $1.3 billion loan to Pakistan, expressing concerns over potential misuse of funds for defense or debt repayment. India attributes the attack to Pakistan-based militants, a claim Pakistan denies, calling for a neutral investigation. The incident has escalated tensions, leading to diplomatic downgrades, suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, and border closures. Both nations have engaged in cross-border skirmishes, raising fears of further escalation. The international community, including the U.S., has called for de-escalation and cooperation in addressing terrorism. The IMF's decision on the loan remains pending amid these heightened tensions. (PC: Mint & IMF)