Canada has introduced stricter security measures for passengers traveling to India, causing longer wait times at airports. Transport Minister Anita Anand announced these temporary protocols, implemented "out of an abundance of caution." Air Canada advised travelers to arrive at least 4 hours before departure, warning of delays due to enhanced screening by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA). The measures come during strained India-Canada relations, worsened by allegations over Khalistani separatists and the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India denies Canada’s claims and cites separatist support as the core issue. Both nations have expelled diplomats in retaliation.

Shawn Mendes, the celebrated Canadian singer, captivated fans with a viral video where he played the harmonium during a stage performance. Seated with the Indian instrument, Mendes displayed his musical versatility, earning humorous titles like “Ustad Shawn-e-Jahaan” and “Shawn-e-Ali Khan” from fans. Comments noted harmonium's origins as a French invention adapted into Indian classical music. This performance comes as Mendes prepares to headline Lollapalooza India in Mumbai on 8-9 March 2025. Known for hits like In My Blood and Treat You Better, this marks Mendes’ return to live performances after two years. Fans are eagerly awaiting his India debut.

Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old Indian-origin woman, was found strangled in the boot of a car in Ilford, east London, on 14 November. Northamptonshire Police suspect her husband, Pankaj Lamba, 23, who is believed to have fled the UK. Brella, under a domestic abuse protection order, was reported missing on 13 November. Authorities allege Lamba transported her body from their Corby home to Ilford before abandoning the vehicle. New CCTV images of Lamba have been released as police, with the National Crime Agency, launch an international manhunt. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to aid the investigation.

Delhi's air pollution reached catastrophic levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting a severe-plus 484, the highest this year. Schools and offices were closed, heavy vehicles barred, and construction halted. The smog, attributed to stubble burning, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollution, affects over 30M residents, reducing life expectancy by seven years. Historian William Dalrymple called the situation "a choking death trap." Poor families, like Shagun Devi's, face dire health impacts without access to air purifiers. The Supreme Court declared clean air a fundamental right, urging urgent government action, though measures remain largely ineffective.

Shah Rukh Khan has officially announced that his son, Aryan Khan, will make his directorial debut with a Netflix series, slated for release in 2025. The announcement comes as Aryan steps into the spotlight behind the camera, with fans eagerly awaiting his creative vision. Shah Rukh shared the news on social media, expressing pride in his son's journey. Aryan, known for his acting career, has decided to explore filmmaking, and the Netflix series marks a significant milestone in his career. Details about the series, including its plot and cast, remain under wraps.

The United States has stated it will not change its nuclear posture following Russia’s decision to lower the threshold for a nuclear strike. A White House spokesperson noted that the Biden administration was not surprised by Russia’s announcement, as Moscow had signaled this shift for weeks. The U.S. also emphasized that there was no reason to adjust its own nuclear stance, despite Russia's claim that Ukraine had used U.S.-made ATACMS missiles in attacks within Russian territory. The spokesperson also highlighted Russia's use of North Korean troops in Ukraine as a significant escalation.

UK-India free trade negotiations will restart in early 2024, Downing Street announced after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer during the G20 Summit in Brazil. Talks aim to unlock markets for British cars, Scottish whisky, and financial services, while addressing challenges like visa rules and fees for Indian students and professionals. Trade between the nations was valued at £42 billion in the year to June 2024. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds called India a “vital trading partner,” with the deal expected to support economic growth and over 600,000 jobs across both countries.

India and China have agreed to hold Special Representatives’ meetings to address border issues and strengthen bilateral ties. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Discussions included the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, data sharing on trans-border rivers, direct flights, and media exchanges. Both sides emphasized stabilizing relations and managing differences. Following recent troop disengagement along the LAC, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a multipolar Asia and dialogue-based conflict resolution. Wang highlighted the significance of China-India relations for the Global South.

European nations are escalating preparations for a potential nuclear conflict amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Following President Vladimir Putin's move to lower the threshold for using nuclear weapons, NATO countries, including Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, have issued emergency advisories. Citizens are urged to stock essential supplies such as food, water, and medicines. Sweden distributed pamphlets, marking only the 5th instance since WWII, while Finland updated its crisis preparedness guidelines. The United States’ provision of long-range missiles to Ukraine has heightened fears of escalation. Sweden’s checklist emphasizes durable foods like potatoes and soups, signaling the growing panic across Europe.

The Naga tribes of India are seeking the return of ancestral human remains held in UK museums. Recently, a Naga skull from Nagaland was withdrawn from auction following protests. Colonial administrators had taken thousands of items, including 41 human remains now housed in Oxford University’s Pitt Rivers Museum. The Naga Forum for Reconciliation emphasizes the spiritual and cultural significance of repatriation, with many unaware their ancestors' remains were abroad. Scholars are working to facilitate returns, despite challenges in identifying descendants and navigating international regulations. The initiative aims to honor ancestors, reclaim history, and restore dignity to the Naga people.