US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti assures Indian parents of the safety of their children studying in the US, emphasizing that "their children are our children." Garcetti urges students to familiarize themselves, have trusted friends, and access resources for mental health support. Highlighting common-sense public safety measures, he underscores the availability of campus security and local law enforcement. The reassurance comes after nearly half a dozen Indian students' deaths in the US since January. Despite February's statement from the Ministry of External Affairs citing no foul play, Garcetti stresses proactive engagement to prevent incidents.            

Prince Harry's planned return to the UK for the Invictus Games celebration faces uncertainty due to heightened security concerns. Reports indicate legal and family issues, including a recent £1 million court loss, are contributing factors. Harry, seeking more time with family, is reportedly dissatisfied with proposed security measures. His attendance at the event hinges on security assurances, with sources stating his disappointment over the situation. The Duke may opt to stay in California and participate in the Invictus Games remotely, highlighting ongoing challenges following his and Meghan's departure from official royal duties.

Voting for the second phase of the Lok Sabha Election 2024 saw an almost 61% turnout across 13 states and Union Territories. Polling took place in 88 constituencies, including Kerala, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Key candidates include Rahul Gandhi, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, and Shashi Tharoor. The BJP aims to strengthen its presence in Karnataka and Kerala, while the Opposition sees Kerala as a crucial battleground. Amidst a bitter face-off, issues like wealth redistribution and national security dominate the political discourse.

Alejandra Rodríguez, a 60-year-old lawyer, breaks age barriers, becoming the first in pageant history to win Miss Universe Buenos Aires. Challenging stereotypes, she emphasizes values beyond physical beauty. Rodríguez aims for Miss Universe Argentina 2024, benefitting from the lifting of age limits in pageants. Similarly, 47-year-old Haidy Cruz competes for the Dominican Republic, defying ageist norms. Both women embody inclusion and determination, showcasing that age is no obstacle to pursuing dreams. With the Miss Universe pageant welcoming diverse contestants, Rodríguez and Cruz inspire by proving that beauty knows no age limit.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) unearthed arms, including foreign-made pistols, and ammunition during raids in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, following an attack on an Enforcement Directorate team. Allegations suggest the involvement of local Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan. NSG commandos have been deployed, and the raids are ongoing. Meanwhile, the West Bengal government has challenged the CBI probe in the Supreme Court. The high court previously instructed CBI to investigate alleged offences, including land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali. The incident adds to concerns over the area's law and order situation amidst escalating tensions.

The Supreme Court dismissed petitions advocating for paper ballot voting and cross-verification of EVMs with VVPAT, affirming the credibility of Electronic Voting Machines. However, it directed the Election Commission to seal symbol loading units in the presence of agents and candidates and verify 5% of EVMs' memory semicontroller after the results' announcement. Candidates bearing verification expenses will receive refunds if tampering is found. Justice Datta emphasized meaningful criticism for strengthening democracy's pillars. The court's decision follows a clutch of petitions raising doubts about EVM efficacy, highlighting the necessity for trust-building measures in electoral processes.

In a significant setback for Go First, the Delhi High Court has ordered the deregistration of all 54 leased aircraft, allowing lessors to reclaim them amidst the airline's bankruptcy declaration nearly a year ago. The directive, to be implemented within five working days, poses a serious threat to Go First's revival prospects. Despite two bids for acquisition, including one from SpiceJet's chief, Ajay Singh, and another from Sky One, uncertainties loom as lenders deliberate over the offers. With the risk of losing its entire fleet, Go First's future remains uncertain, casting doubts on any potential comeback efforts.

In the ongoing second phase of India's 18th Lok Sabha elections, 88 constituencies across 13 states and Union territories are voting. With over 1,200 candidates competing, voter turnout stood at 50.3% by 3 pm. Notably, Manipur, Chhattisgarh, Bengal, Assam, and Tripura saw over 53% turnout, while Maharashtra lagged at 31%. Key contenders include Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Tejasvi Surya, Rahul Gandhi, and Hema Malini. In 2019, NDA secured 56 seats and UPA 24. Tomorrow, 103 seats in different states will go to polls. The first phase saw a turnout of 65.5%, marking a significant engagement in the electoral process.

Fisherman Vinod Laxman Koal (45), from Dahanu, Maharashtra, died in a Pakistani prison on March 17. Koal, arrested by the Pakistani Coast Guard in October 2022 for allegedly trespassing into Pakistani waters, suffered a paralytic attack and collapsed on March 8 while in jail. He worked on a Gujarat-registered fishing boat. His body is expected to be brought to his village on April 29. Other Indian prisoners informed his family about his death unofficially. Koal's demise highlights the challenges faced by Indian fishermen detained abroad.

The Supreme Court is set to review a PIL calling for elections to be nullified if NOTA votes outnumber those for any candidate. Activist Shiv Khera leads the plea to give citizens more power to reject inadequate candidates and push parties to nominate better choices. The bench, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, has summoned the Election Commission to respond. The petition highlights the influence of NOTA in Maharashtra, Haryana, Delhi, and Puducherry. This move aims to enhance citizens' rights and encourage improvements in candidate selection processes.