Despite the electoral bonds data being publicly available on the Election Commission website, the State Bank of India (SBI) refused to disclose the details, citing fiduciary capacity and personal information exemptions under the RTI Act. RTI activist Commodore (retired) Lokesh Batra's request for the data in digital form was denied by SBI, prompting criticism for withholding information already accessible to the public. The incident follows the Supreme Court's order for disclosure, highlighting ongoing transparency concerns surrounding the electoral bonds scheme.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi is pushing for a new bill called the Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act to tackle America's healthcare worker shortage. Around 14% of the 2 million college-educated immigrants in the US have healthcare degrees, but many aren't working in healthcare. This is worsening the shortage and costing billions in unpaid taxes each year. The Migration Policy Institute warns that these skilled immigrants face barriers to joining the healthcare workforce, putting strain on the system. Krishnamoorthi's bill aims to address this issue.

K Kavitha, a leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inside Tihar Jail. The arrest is linked to a money-laundering case concerning the Delhi liquor policy, with Kavitha accused of involvement in a group that allegedly paid kickbacks to the ruling AAP in Delhi. She had been in judicial custody since March 15 and was recently questioned about WhatsApp chats and documents related to the case. Kavitha claims the investigation has damaged her reputation and privacy.

Apple alerts iPhone users in India and 91 other countries about potential "mercenary spyware" attacks, including the notorious Pegasus spyware from NSO Group. The company previously warned Indian politicians of state-sponsored spyware threats. The email notifications, sent without attributing blame, urge caution with links and attachments. Apple emphasizes the sophistication and rarity of such attacks, aiming to target specific individuals. With warnings dating back to 2021 and recipients spanning 150 countries, Apple urges vigilance and offers support to potentially targeted users, amid ongoing global surveillance concerns.  

Israel deployed its ship-mounted defense system, the C-Dome, for the first time against a "suspicious" aerial target near the city of Eilat. The system, a naval version of the Iron Dome, intercepted the target, with no reported injuries or damage. While the IDF did not confirm if the target was a drone, it marks the C-Dome's inaugural operational use. Mounted on Sa'ar 6-class corvettes, the C-Dome utilizes the same interceptor technology as the Iron Dome, providing an additional layer of defense against potential threats to Israeli airspace.

Indian-American actress Avantika Vandanapu, known for her role in "Mean Girls," faces racist backlash amid rumors of her potential casting as Rapunzel in a live-action adaptation of Disney's "Tangled." While no official confirmation from Disney exists, social media speculation ignited controversy. Some fans support the idea, while others express racist sentiments, arguing against Vandanapu's suitability based on her ethnicity. Despite the hate, South Asian fans defend Vandanapu, emphasizing the lack of confirmation and her suitability for the role. The incident highlights ongoing debates over diversity and representation in film casting.

Lindy Cameron CB OBE is appointed as the new British High Commissioner to India, succeeding Mr. Alex Ellis CMG. With a wealth of experience, she previously served as Chief Executive of the National Cyber Security Centre and held leadership roles in the Northern Ireland Office, DFID, and Joint MoD-FCO-DFID Stabilisation Unit. Her extensive background includes postings in Afghanistan, Iraq, and governance advisory roles in Vietnam and Nigeria. Ms. Cameron is set to assume her new role in April 2024, bringing her diplomatic expertise to further UK-India relations.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extends cooperation to Pakistan in fighting terrorism, cautioning against destabilization efforts. He recounts being denied parole during the Emergency, countering accusations of dictatorship by Congress. Singh reaffirms India's readiness to cross into Pakistan to combat terrorists, prompted by alleged targeted killings since 2020. He stresses decisive action against any disturbance to peace by terrorists. These remarks follow Singh's earlier statement on India's willingness to enter Pakistan to eliminate escaping terrorists. The stance reflects India's firm stance on national security and its commitment to counterterrorism measures, amid ongoing regional tensions.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif delivers Eid wishes while subtly targeting India, urging Muslims to remember Palestinians and Kashmiris facing oppression. In a veiled reference, Sharif condemns alleged atrocities by occupation forces in Kashmir, echoing sentiments expressed during his recent meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The message underscores Pakistan's persistent stance on the Kashmir dispute and calls for dialogue between Pakistan and India for regional peace. This diplomatic move coincides with Sharif's first overseas visit post-election victory, signaling continued efforts to address regional tensions.

During the IPL 2024 match versus Gujarat Titans, Rajasthan Royals' captain Sanju Samson incurs BCCI's wrath for maintaining a sluggish over rate. Despite their loss, Rajasthan Royals retain their top spot on the table. Samson faces a fine of ₹12 lakhs as it marks his team's first offense under IPL's Code of Conduct this season. The match witnessed a thrilling finish with Titans securing victory in the final over. Meanwhile, Riyan Parag's stellar performance draws attention, with Sunil Gavaskar hinting at a potential call-up to the Indian team.