U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced that smartphones, computers, and certain electronics recently exempted from steep tariffs on Chinese imports will soon face new duties, alongside semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, within the next two months. This marks a further development in President Donald Trump's aggressive tariff strategy, which continues to unsettle global markets and U.S. businesses due to ongoing policy shifts. Although the Trump administration temporarily excluded some tech products from the 125% reciprocal tariffs, Lutnick clarified they would still be affected by upcoming sector-specific tariffs. The announcement comes after China retaliated by raising its tariffs on U.S. imports and amid growing criticism from business leaders and politicians.(PC: Wikipedia)

A senior Indian official has indicated that the 'zero-for-zero' tariff strategy, proposed by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), is unlikely to be adopted in the forthcoming India-US trade agreement. This approach involves mutual elimination of tariffs on select goods to avoid broader concessions. However, the official suggests that India prefers a comprehensive trade deal over product-specific tariff eliminations. The GTRI had recommended this strategy to circumvent potential reciprocal tariffs from the US, which could adversely affect Indian exports. Despite the WTO's stance on such arrangements, the GTRI viewed it as a less detrimental alternative to a full-fledged FTA, which might compel India to make challenging concessions in areas like agriculture and data protection. (Business Today)

Seventeen companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed in Murshidabad, West Bengal, following recent unrest. The state's Director General of Police (DGP) confirmed that the situation is now under control. The deployment aims to restore order and prevent further disturbances. Authorities are closely monitoring the area to ensure peace and stability. The presence of CAPF personnel is intended to bolster local law enforcement and reassure residents. Officials have not reported any new incidents since the deployment. The DGP emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order and assured the public of their safety. Efforts are ongoing to address the root causes of the unrest and promote harmony in the region. (PC: The Hindu & Mathrubhumi)

Karun Nair's explosive 89 off 40 balls was not enough as Delhi Capitals lost to Mumbai Indians by 12 runs in IPL 2025 at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. Chasing 206, DC collapsed from 119/1 to 193 all out, with three run outs in the 19th over sealing their fate. Tilak Varma (59) and Naman Dhir (38*) powered MI to 205/5. Kuldeep Yadav impressed with 2/23, but DC's late-innings chaos ended their 4-match winning streak. Hardik Pandya’s MI climbed to 7th in the table with just their 2nd win. Nair’s return to form was the lone bright spot for Delhi. (PC: AP)

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the U.S. is prepared to "go deep and to go big" militarily if diplomatic efforts with Iran over its nuclear program fail. This statement followed initial indirect talks in Oman, which Hegseth described as "productive." President Donald Trump emphasized that while military action is not preferred, it remains a possibility, potentially involving Israel as a leading partner. Trump had previously withdrawn the U.S. from the 2015 nuclear agreement during his first term. Analysts suggest Iran may be weeks away from developing a nuclear weapon. Trump has warned Iran that failure to reach a deal could lead to bombing. (PC: The New York Times)

The U.S. Department of State's May 2025 Visa Bulletin delivers a setback for Indian nationals, notably in the EB-5 Unreserved category, which retrogresses over six months to May 1, 2019, due to high demand from India and other countries. The EB-1 and EB-2 categories remain unchanged for India, with cutoff dates at February 2, 2022, and January 1, 2013, respectively. The EB-3 category sees a modest advancement of two weeks to April 15, 2013. These adjustments reflect the ongoing challenges Indian applicants face amid stringent immigration policies under President Donald Trump's administration, affecting H-1B visa holders and green card aspirants.

On April 13, 2025, Israeli airstrikes hit Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, one of the last operational medical centers in the region. The bombing destroyed the emergency and reception departments, rendering the facility inoperative. A warning call prior to the strike allowed staff to evacuate patients, many of whom were critically ill, into the streets without medical support. Israel claimed the hospital was being used by Hamas, though provided no proof. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem condemned the strike, calling it a violation of international law. The attack comes amid intense conflict and failed ceasefire talks in Cairo. (PC: Reuters)

Once seen as a symbol of prosperity, India’s pot belly is now a silent killer. A Lancet study warns that 450 million Indians—nearly one-third of the population—could be overweight or obese by 2050. Abdominal obesity, particularly belly fat, increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease. NFHS-5 shows 40% of Indian women and 12% of men suffer from it. Doctors blame processed food, sedentary lifestyle, and a genetic tendency among South Asians. Experts urge stricter lifestyle changes, including 250–300 minutes of weekly exercise. Physicians warn even slim people can have dangerous belly fat. India faces a ticking health time bomb. (PC: Getty Images)

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued a strict 30-day deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to self-deport or face severe penalties, including daily fines up to $998, imprisonment, and permanent immigration bans. The directive encourages voluntary departure, allowing individuals to choose their own flight and retain U.S.-earned income. While legal visa holders aren’t immediately affected, those whose visas expire must act quickly. This enforcement aligns with former President Trump’s immigration stance and has triggered debate over its humanitarian and legal implications, especially among immigrant communities and advocacy groups. (PC: Reuters)

BJP MP Saumitra Khan has requested the central government to declare Murshidabad, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur, and Dakshin Dinajpur as “disturbed areas” under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). He cited growing cross-border smuggling, communal violence, and administrative breakdown as reasons for the demand. According to Khan, these areas pose a serious threat to national security due to porous borders and lawlessness. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has opposed the move, calling it politically motivated. The appeal has sparked a political storm, raising concerns over potential misuse of military powers and impact on civil liberties in the region. (PTI)