Indonesian authorities issued a tsunami alert after Ruang Mountain erupted multiple times, sending ash clouds high into the sky. Over 11,000 people were evacuated from the danger zone on Sulawesi island. The volcano experienced five significant eruptions within a day, prompting the highest alert level. Officials warn tourists and residents to stay at least 6 kilometers away. Concerns mount over potential tsunamis, especially for Tagulandang island residents. Evacuees will be relocated to Manado, six hours away by boat. The incident echoes past disasters, like the 2018 Anak Krakatau eruption that triggered a deadly tsunami.

Time's '100 Most Influential People of 2024' includes prominent Indians like Alia Bhatt, Satya Nadella, and Sakshi Malik. Bhatt, hailed for her talent and integrity, shines as an actor, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Nadella's vision in shaping the future through Microsoft's AI investment earns recognition. Malik's activism against harassment in Indian sports earns her a spot. Additionally, the list features Dev Patel, Ajay Banga, and Priyamvada Natarajan, highlighting their diverse contributions. Their inclusion underscores India's growing global influence across various sectors.

NASA issues alert on two asteroids passing close to Earth on April 17. 2024 GM1, sized like an airplane, approaches within 1.3 million kilometers at 37,287 km/h. 2024 GF5, bus-sized, nears at 3.7 million kilometers, traveling at 26,485 km/h. Despite their speed, NASA assures they're safe. The agency closely monitors near-Earth objects (NEOs) and sets safety thresholds. Only larger objects within 7.5 million kilometers are considered potential hazards. Ground and space-based telescopes track NEOs, providing valuable data. Though not visible to the naked eye, the event highlights space's vastness and NASA's vigilance in protecting Earth.

A migrant worker from Bihar, Raju Shah, was fatally shot by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district. The attack occurred in Zablipora, Bijbehara. Despite efforts to save him, Shah succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. The incident follows recent arrests of suspected terrorists in the area. Although such attacks have declined, this incident raises concerns amidst Lok Sabha election campaigns in Anantnag. PDP's Mehbooba Mufti and NC's Mian Altaf Ahmed are set to file nominations. Security forces continue operations, with recent arrests and recovery of weapons.

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar assures regular oversight of US consulate development in Bengaluru, highlighting its importance for city residents and professionals. Jaishankar emphasizes Prime Minister Modi's request during US visit last year for swift establishment. Local residents welcome move, citing convenience and necessity for Bengaluru's growing ties with US. Currently, US operates four consulates in India, overseen by New Delhi embassy. Jaishankar expresses readiness to visit consulate on Modi's behalf once established, stressing ongoing coordination with US authorities for timely completion.

Former UN employee Emma Reilly alleges UN bias towards China, including bribery of UNGA presidents and Covid report editing. Evidence presented to UK Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee highlights China's influence on UN decisions. Reilly claims China's secret conditions on funds and advance info on human rights activists. NGO delegates allegedly faced repercussions, including harassment and death. Reports on Covid origins allegedly downplayed lab leak possibility. UK Parliament inquiry examines international relations in multilateral system. UN Secretary-General criticized for alleged inaction.

Russian military has suffered over 50,000 fatalities, marking a significant increase over time. This data comes from rigorous monitoring by BBC Russian and other sources. The strategy known as the "meat grinder" involves continuous waves of soldiers, contributing to the rising death toll. Many new graves in Russian cemeteries indicate the scale of losses. The tactic relies heavily on recruits, including prisoners, with limited training. Families express shock at loved ones' rapid deployment and insufficient equipment. Despite the staggering toll, Russia declines to comment on the escalating human cost of the conflict.

The Election Commission has urged West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose to cancel his scheduled visit to Cooch Behar on April 18-19, coinciding with the constituency's voting day. Violating the Model Code of Conduct, the visit during the 48-hour silence period before polls would impede election management, stated the commission. With Lok Sabha elections spanning April to June, the first phase on April 19 initiates a seven-phase process. The commission emphasized that local programs for the governor are prohibited under the MCC during this crucial period.

Former RBI Governor D Subbarao cautions that India, projected to become the world's third-largest economy by 2029, may still grapple with poverty. Despite PM Modi's ambitions, Subbarao highlights the distinction between economic size and development, citing Saudi Arabia. India's current per capita income ranks low globally at USD 2,600, emphasizing the need to accelerate growth and ensure equitable distribution of benefits. Subbarao underscores the importance of rule of law, a strong state, accountability, and independent institutions for India to progress towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

The National Center of Meteorology refutes claims of cloud seeding preceding heavy storms in the UAE, including the recent deluge in Dubai. Deputy Director General Omar AlYazeedi asserts no seeding operations occurred during the event, emphasizing the need to target clouds before rainfall. With rainfall hitting record levels, the NCM attributes the storm to natural causes. Cloud seeding has long been part of the UAE's water management strategy, but safety remains paramount, and operations are avoided during extreme weather. The country faces increasing precipitation due to climate change, prompting warnings from authorities and a call for adherence to safety measures.