The Congress party has announced a nationwide series of 'Samvidhan Bachao' rallies, scheduled across all states from April 25 to 30, as part of its 40-day 'Samvidhan Bachao Abhiyan'. This initiative aims to promote social, political, and economic justice, countering what Congress describes as the BJP-led government's assault on the Constitution. The campaign begins on April 22 with Pradesh Congress Committees' executive meetings, followed by district-level rallies from May 3 to 10, assembly-level rallies from May 11 to 17, and a door-to-door campaign from May 20 to 30. Congress accuses the BJP of weakening the Supreme Court and undermining constitutional institutions. The party reaffirms its commitment to uphold constitutional values and democratic principles. (PC: The Guardian & AP)

Rahul Gandhi has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "hugplomacy" with former U.S. President Donald Trump, asserting that such gestures won't mitigate the economic repercussions of U.S. tariffs on India. In a conversation with Delhi Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, Gandhi highlighted issues like high unemployment, economic system failures, and societal disharmony. He emphasized that the U.S. tariffs will have significant economic consequences, which symbolic acts cannot resolve. Gandhi also drew parallels between the current economic scenario and the colonial era, suggesting that the alliance between the British and Indian Maharajas then is akin to the present relationships between the government and major industrialists like Adani and Ambani. (PC: Business Today)

Elon Musk is set to visit India, signaling potential advancements for Tesla, Starlink, and SpaceX in the country. Tesla's entry has been hindered by high import tariffs, but discussions are ongoing about establishing local manufacturing to benefit from tax incentives. Starlink has partnered with major telecom providers Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel to offer satellite internet services, aiming to enhance connectivity in remote areas. These collaborations are contingent upon regulatory approvals. Additionally, Musk's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscores mutual interests in technology and sustainable development, potentially easing Starlink's compliance with India's data localization and security requirements. (PC: DriveSpark & News18)

The U.S. government has clarified that recent student visa revocations are not specifically targeting Indian nationals. This statement follows a survey indicating that approximately 50% of students receiving visa notices were from India. The U.S. emphasizes that visa decisions are based on individual circumstances and compliance with immigration laws, not nationality. Indian students constitute a significant portion of the international student population in the U.S., and the country remains committed to facilitating their educational pursuits. Efforts are ongoing to ensure transparency and fairness in visa processes, aiming to maintain strong educational and cultural ties between the two nations. (PC: AP & The Economic Times)

On April 19, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a unilateral Easter ceasefire in Ukraine, instructing Russian troops to suspend military operations from Saturday evening to Sunday night. He urged Ukraine to reciprocate, though forces remained on alert for provocations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy dismissed the move as insincere, citing continued Russian drone strikes. Despite tensions, both nations exchanged 246 prisoners each during the ceasefire, with mediation by the UAE. The U.S. called for renewed peace talks, warning it may reconsider its diplomatic involvement if progress toward resolution remains stalled. Hostilities largely continued despite the ceasefire announcement. (PC: The New York Times)

Rakhaldas Banerjee, a brilliant yet controversial Indian archaeologist, discovered the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro in the early 1900s, revealing the vast Indus Valley Civilisation. Working under British colonial rule with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), his contributions were downplayed, with ASI chief John Marshall allegedly taking credit. Known for his bold independence and clashes with authority, Banerjee faced financial scrutiny and a false idol theft accusation, leading to his resignation in 1927. Despite these setbacks, he later taught at Banaras Hindu University. Banerjee died in 1930 at age 45, his pivotal role in Indian history still largely forgotten. (PC: Getty Images)  

In today's IPL 2025 match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), LSG captain Rishabh Pant won the toss and chose to bat first at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Notably, RR's regular captain, Sanju Samson, is absent due to an abdominal injury, with Riyan Parag leading the team in his stead. Additionally, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi is making his debut for RR in this match. (PC: Sportstar)

Chinese manufacturers are increasingly using TikTok to showcase factory-made versions of luxury products like Hermès bags and Lululemon apparel. These unbranded or counterfeit goods are promoted directly to American consumers, often highlighting the massive price difference between retail and factory costs. The trend reflects dissatisfaction with luxury markups and growing interest in affordable alternatives. However, it also raises concerns over intellectual property violations and trade ethics. By leveraging social media, these manufacturers are reshaping global perceptions of luxury and revealing the production secrets behind high-end fashion. (PC: Tik Tok)

Harsimrat Kaur Randhawa, a 21-year-old student from Punjab studying at Mohawk College in Canada, was tragically killed in Hamilton after being struck by a stray bullet during a violent altercation between two groups. She was reportedly waiting at a bus stop on her way to work. The incident has deeply shaken her family in India, who have pleaded with the Indian government to help repatriate her body for last rites. The case has reignited concerns over the safety of international students in Canada. (PC: NDTV)

An Indian-origin student has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2025 President’s Engagement Prize by the University of Pennsylvania. The award honors students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to community service and social impact. This prize supports initiatives that aim to create positive change across various sectors, reflecting the student's commitment to addressing societal challenges and making a meaningful contribution to their community. The prize includes funding to further the student's impactful work in their chosen field. (Linkedin)