A state of emergency grips southern Iceland following the fourth volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula since December. Lava flows, though slow, pose risks to infrastructure and the Svartsengi power plant's water pipe. Authorities warn of potential chlorine fumes if lava meets seawater, with fears of minor explosions. Evacuations and road closures are underway in Grindavik. Despite recent eruptions, some residents remain steadfast, while others consider relocating. Iceland's volcanic activity surge, marking the seventh eruption since 2021, hints at a new volcanic era. The country braces for prolonged geological upheaval.

YouTuber Elvish Yadav was arrested by Noida Police for his alleged role in a snake venom case. He was sent to 14-day judicial custody after being questioned by police. Authorities claimed Yadav was uncooperative and withholding information during interrogation. The case, initially filed under the Wildlife Protection Act, had NDPS Act sections added. Yadav, among six named in the FIR, denied involvement. The incident, where nine snakes were seized, occurred at a Sector 51 banquet hall. People For Animals lodged the complaint, while BJP's Maneka Gandhi accused Yadav of illegal snake venom sales.

India and Maldives held their third core group meeting in Male, focusing on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. The military team, operating advanced helicopters, has been replaced by civilian technical experts. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu set a March 10 deadline for the troop withdrawal. Both sides reviewed the deployment of Indian civilian technical personnel for continued operation of aviation platforms in the Maldives. Discussions also covered bilateral cooperation, development projects, trade, and people-to-people linkages. The next high-level core group meeting is scheduled in New Delhi. The move follows strained ties since Muizzu's presidency, marked by promises to reduce Indian military presence.

Indian Navy's INS Kolkata successfully thwarted Somali pirates, rescuing 17 crew members, including seven Bulgarians, from the hijacked MV Ruen in the Arabian Sea. Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Mariya Gabriel thanked India for the operation, to which External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar replied, "That’s what friends are for." The operation, involving special forces and air support, saw the pirates surrendering after being intercepted nearly 1,400 nm from the Indian coast. The Indian Air Force also showcased joint efforts with the Navy. The pirates had opened fire on the Navy before surrendering in international waters.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu rebuked US Senate leader Schumer's push for new Israeli elections amidst ongoing conflict with Hamas. Netanyahu called the suggestion "ridiculous," likening it to intervening in a sister democracy's affairs. Schumer's proposal stemmed from labeling Netanyahu an "obstacle to peace." US President Biden supported Schumer's concerns, while Republican Leader McConnell criticized the interference. Former House Speaker Pelosi backed Schumer's call for democratic processes. Meanwhile, Biden and foreign leaders seek a second ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict to aid hostages and provide humanitarian relief in Gaza.

A stampede erupted at Mathura's Shreeji Temple during a pre-Holi celebration, causing injuries to at least six devotees. The incident occurred around 1:15 pm due to overcrowding exacerbated by the 'Laddoo Holi' festival and Sunday rush, police stated. CCTV footage captured the chaotic scene as worshippers grappled with the stampede. Quick medical assistance was provided, with onsite doctors administering first aid before transferring the injured to nearby hospitals. Police swiftly arrived to restore order. Two individuals are reported to be in serious condition.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged rapid development for Andhra Pradesh under the NDA's governance during a rally in Palnadu. Promising a 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Viksit Andhra Pradesh', Modi highlighted the NDA's commitment to regional aspirations and national progress. He announced plans for significant decisions in the country's third term post-elections. Modi criticized the Congress, accusing them of exploiting allies. Sharing the stage with TDP's Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena's Pawan Kalyan, Modi reiterated NDA's inclusive approach. The BJP, TDP, and Jana Sena have formed a pre-poll alliance for the upcoming elections.

A tragic collision in Helmand province, Afghanistan, claimed the lives of more than 20 individuals and left 38 injured on Sunday. The accident occurred when a motorbike collided with a Kabul-bound bus, leading the bus driver to lose control and collide with an oil tanker. The vehicles erupted in flames upon impact. Among the casualties were the two motorbike riders, three tanker occupants, and 16 bus passengers. Eleven individuals with severe injuries were rushed to nearby hospitals. Traffic authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Such accidents are unfortunately common in Afghanistan due to poor road conditions and driver negligence.

Bengaluru's tech prominence faces a threat as water scarcity and traffic chaos drive tech giants to explore alternative hubs. The city's $245 billion IT industry grapples with acute water shortages, worsened by encroached lakes and depleted borewells. Traffic congestion compounds issues, prompting firms to consider relocation. Meanwhile, India's IT landscape diversifies, with Tier 2 cities emerging as viable tech hubs offering talent at lower costs. Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Mysuru lead the charge, attracting investment and startups. Bengaluru's iconic status hinges on addressing infrastructure woes, else risking its Silicon Valley crown to burgeoning tech centers nationwide.

The Election Commission unveiled data on electoral bonds, detailing contributions to political parties before April 12, 2019. The release follows the Supreme Court's directive, disclosing raw information on bond issuance, denominations, and receiving SBI branches. Notably, the Trinamool Congress requested unique bond numbers, while the BSP and CPI(M) reported no electoral bond donations. Tamil Nadu's DMK garnered ₹656.5 crore, including a significant sum from Santiago Martin's Future Gaming. The BJP and NCP's West Bengal unit affirmed no electoral bond receipts, while TRS, now BRS, amassed ₹230.65 crore. The data underscores electoral bonds' significance amid ongoing debates on political funding transparency.