In a unique voter awareness campaign, scuba divers in Chennai submerged sixty feet underwater in Neelankarai to enact the voting process. Carrying mock EVM machines and Election Commission placards, they emphasized the importance of voting. Organized by SB Aravind Tharunsri of Temple Adventure, the initiative aimed to highlight the duty and right of casting a vote. With India's general election for 543 Lok Sabha seats spanning seven phases from April 19 to June 1, nearly 97 crore eligible voters are urged to participate. The message, "My country, my vote," resonated throughout the innovative underwater endeavor.

India to deploy defence attaches in African countries like Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Mozambique, and Djibouti to boost strategic ties amid China's growing influence. Djibouti's maritime significance underscores its importance. Many African nations express interest in Indian military equipment. Additionally, attaches to be stationed in the Philippines, Armenia, and Poland. Rationalization of military officials in Moscow and London embassies planned, with some relocating. Sixteen defence attaches from Army, Navy, and Air Force to take up new roles soon.

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 commences with widespread joy as the crescent moon heralds the end of Ramadan. This significant Islamic festival, observed on the first day of Shawwal, concludes a month of fasting and spiritual contemplation. It symbolizes the start of a new Islamic year and fosters unity among adherents worldwide. The ancient tradition of moon sighting, dating back to the era of Prophet Muhammad, influences varying celebration dates across regions. Despite this, the spirit of unity and happiness prevails, encapsulating the essence of Eid-ul-Fitr.

India and UAE are teaming up for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), despite Gaza conflict. IMEEC aims to connect India, UAE, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Europe, and the US through trade. PM Modi and UAE's President signed an agreement, with the first meeting scheduled for May 15. Backed by the Biden administration, IMEEC seeks to enhance bilateral trade, currently at USD 85 billion, and unite markets. This move underscores a strong commitment to bolstering economic relations and fostering regional cooperation.

Over 6,000 Indian workers are heading to Israel in April and May to fill a labor gap in construction after the Israel-Hamas conflict. Israeli government, including the Prime Minister's Office and finance and housing ministries, is subsidizing charter flights for their arrival. Due to the conflict, many Palestinian workers had their permits revoked. This influx marks the largest foreign worker group in Israel's construction sector in a short period. Prime Minister Netanyahu's meeting addressed concerns of stalled projects, rising living costs, and tensions between government and businesses.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seeks an arrest warrant for AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan in a money laundering case involving irregularities at the Delhi Waqf Board. The court will review the request on April 18. Earlier, the ED charged four individuals, including three linked to Khan. Following the ED's summons, Khan must appear in court on April 20 for allegedly ignoring previous summons. The case centers on alleged misconduct in Delhi Waqf Board appointments.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the urgency of addressing the India-China border situation to normalize bilateral relations. In an interview with Newsweek, he stressed the significance of stable relations between the two nations for global peace. Modi expressed hope for restoring peace through positive engagement, highlighting the importance of diplomatic and military dialogues. He underscored that resolving border issues is crucial for India-China relations and for the broader region. Modi's remarks reflect efforts to address tensions and foster constructive engagement between the two neighboring countries.

India has said it will remain Sri Lanka's most reliable friend and partner. At a defence seminar in Colombo, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha stated India is willing to offer modern defence equipment to Sri Lanka. He highlighted India's growing indigenous defence capabilities in areas like fighter jets, naval vessels, and artillery systems. Jha said these advanced Indian platforms can become affordable solutions for the Sri Lankan military. He emphasized that India's support to Sri Lanka during the pandemic and economic crisis was driven by its responsibility toward its closest neighbor. Sri Lanka's defence officials appreciated India's commitment to assist the nation's armed forces.

Children in Gaza spent a somber Eid al-Fitr amid the devastation of war. Seven-year-old Tala Abu Amr said, "This Eid, we miss happiness...They're all dead." Over 33,000 people, mostly women and children, have been killed. 1.7 million, including many kids, fled homes. Food is scarce. At a Rafah cemetery, families visited graves of loved ones. Fedaa Murjan mourned her eight-year-old daughter killed in an airstrike. Some tried making sweets for orphans. "Despite pain and shelling, we love life," said one man. A few children vowed to celebrate, but the holiday remained overshadowed by suffering.

Russia's foreign ministry criticizes plans for a Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland, labeling it a political maneuver by the US Democratic Party ahead of the presidential election. Moscow accuses Washington of prioritizing optics over resolving the conflict, with spokeswoman Maria Zakharova alleging the event serves American Democrats' political agenda. The conference, set for June 15-16 with US President Biden expected to attend, faces further scrutiny as Russia accuses Switzerland of forsaking neutrality. Tensions escalate as Moscow vows to continue its offensive in Ukraine, amid Swiss discussions on seizing Russian assets.