The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will roll out a nationwide “Waqf Reforms Awareness Campaign” from April 20 to May 5, aiming to inform citizens about recent changes in Waqf property governance. The campaign will highlight concerns around alleged misuse and lack of transparency in Waqf land management and promote the need for reform. BJP leaders and legal experts will host seminars, public meetings, and social media outreach to educate the public on how reforms can ensure equitable access and accountability. The initiative is also expected to gain political traction ahead of upcoming elections. (PC: ANI)    

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that intelligence reports have identified at least 155 Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian forces amid the latest spring offensive. Some were allegedly recruited through social media and online platforms. Ukraine has captured several individuals during recent clashes in the east, prompting Kyiv to summon China’s ambassador for an explanation. While Ukraine stressed there’s no proof of direct Chinese government involvement, the revelation adds strain to already delicate diplomatic ties. China responded by saying it is investigating the matter and reiterated its neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. (PC: CNN)  

Russia claimed on April 9 that it destroyed 158 Ukrainian drones in a major overnight attack, with 29 shot down over the Rostov region. The Russian defence ministry reported evacuations from 48 apartments in Aksay and temporary airport closures across southern Russia. Most drones were intercepted over Krasnodar (69) and North Ossetia–Alania (15). No injuries were reported. Ukraine did not comment, but Kyiv says such attacks target infrastructure in response to Russia’s bombings. US President Donald Trump has pushed for a ceasefire, with the US announcing agreements in March aiming to halt strikes on energy infrastructure in the ongoing war. (PC: NDTV)

Indian wrestler and Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat has opted for a ₹4 crore cash award from the Haryana government, rejecting the alternative offers of a Group-A government job or a residential plot. This recognition comes despite her missing out on the 2024 Paris Olympics due to a weight category disqualification. The reward was promised by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, treating her on par with Olympic silver medalists. Phogat raised the issue in the state assembly, asserting that respect for athletes is more valuable than compensation. Her decision marks a symbolic stand on athlete recognition in India. (PC: ANI)

Apple has urgently transported around 600 tons of iPhones—about 1.5 million units—from India to the U.S. to avoid renewed Trump-era tariffs. The airlifts follow a rapid scale-up in production at Foxconn’s Chennai facility, which increased output by 20%, even operating on Sundays. To support this, Indian authorities accelerated customs clearance to just six hours. Foxconn’s India exports soared to $770 million in January and $643 million in February. The move highlights Apple's deepening manufacturing shift to India, aiming to reduce reliance on China while safeguarding U.S. market supply amid geopolitical and trade uncertainties. (PC: Mint)  

The European Union has paused its planned retaliatory tariffs against the US after President Donald Trump delayed a global tariff hike for 90 days. Trump’s new 10% universal tariff remains, along with a 25% rate on aluminium, steel, and automobiles. However, China faces a 125% tariff, worsening the US-China trade war. In response, Beijing imposed 84% duties on US imports. The pause in escalation brought relief to financial markets in Asia and Europe, with gains reported across stock exchanges. A UK-based short seller told the BBC he was “happy” with the profits earned during the recent market turbulence. (PC: BBC)

India is accelerating efforts to finalize a partial bilateral trade agreement with the U.S. before a critical 90-day deadline, following Washington's temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs. The Indian government aims to use this window to secure better access for key exports like shrimp, enhance market entry for Indian goods, and push for reductions in both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers. The deal, considered a precursor to a larger trade pact expected by late 2025, also seeks to strengthen supply chain cooperation and boost overall trade towards a $500 billion target by 2030. (PC: News 18)

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended President Trump’s sweeping tariffs, singling out China with a 125% duty and calling it a “bad actor” in global trade. Bessent clarified that current negotiations are focused on China’s neighbours—India, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam. Trump’s 90-day pause on new tariffs excludes China but offers countries like India a breather. India faces a 26% tariff, with exemptions for key sectors like pharma. With China ramping up tariffs to 84% on US goods, India’s cautious diplomacy continues, aiming to finalise a bilateral trade agreement by autumn following earlier discussions during PM Modi’s US visit. (PC: India Today)

Security was intensified in Delhi ahead of the arrival of Tahawwur Rana, extradited from the US for his alleged role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Escorted by SWAT teams and armoured vehicles, Rana was transported in a bulletproof convoy from Palam airport to the NIA headquarters. Rana is accused of aiding terrorist David Headley in planning the 2008 attacks that killed 166. A Delhi court has received trial records from Mumbai. A special team including NIA, intelligence officers, and forensic psychologists will question Rana to uncover cross-border institutional links to the attacks. The Patiala House Court area remains on high alert. (PC: PTI)

King Charles and Queen Camilla met Pope Francis at the Vatican on Wednesday during their four-day state visit to Italy. The private audience, confirmed earlier that morning, included an exchange of gifts and warm wishes. The couple were "deeply touched" by the Pope's remarks on their 20th wedding anniversary. Buckingham Palace expressed joy at the Pope being well enough to host them following his recent hospital stay. Earlier, King Charles addressed the Italian Parliament and met Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Queen Camilla visited a school and ice cream shop, receiving anniversary cards from students. Discussions continue for an official papal visit. (PC: X/@RoyalFamily)