India confronts Russia over a significant human trafficking network luring men with promised jobs, ultimately coerced into fighting in Ukraine. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announces strong action against agents behind the scheme, as around 35 Indian nationals fall victim. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal assures efforts for the early return of duped individuals, with two reported deaths in combat. Efforts are underway to locate and assist affected families, emphasizing the urgency to bring back those deceived by false promises. The incident underscores the need for international cooperation in combating human trafficking.          

Konsam Kheda Singh, a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army, was abducted from his home in Manipur's Thoubal district while on leave. The incident, believed to be an extortion case, saw Singh taken by assailants from Charangpat Mamang Leikai village. Security agencies have initiated a search operation along National Highway 102. This marks the fourth such abduction targeting soldiers or their relatives in Manipur since the conflict began. Ethnic violence in the region has led to over 200 deaths and nearly 50,000 displacements since May, with militant groups reportedly gaining ground.

The State Bank of India (SBI) has petitioned the Supreme Court for an extension until June 30 to furnish electoral bonds details to the Election Commission. Facing a contempt petition from the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR), SBI's plea will be heard by a 5-judge bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud on March 11. This follows the top court's recent invalidation of the electoral bonds scheme, citing it as "unconstitutional". SBI highlighted the complexity of data compilation due to separate record-keeping for bond issuance and redemption, with donor details sealed for anonymity. Opposition members criticize SBI's move as elections loom.          

Hundreds of common guillemots, akin to puffins, have washed up dead on French Atlantic beaches due to intense winter storms preventing their feeding. Over 500 guillemots have been found along the coast since the year began. Climate change is implicated in the increased frequency and strength of storms, a significant factor in seabird strandings. Scientists suggest exhaustion from harsh sea conditions as the likely cause of death. Microplastic poisoning and chemical contamination also contribute, weakening birds already affected by the relocation of prey due to climate change and overfishing. Guillemots, reliant on constant feeding, struggle to survive in such storms.

Author and philanthropist Sudha Murty has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha, lauded by PM Modi as a symbol of "Nari Shakti." Recognizing her impactful contributions to social work, philanthropy, and education, Modi expressed delight in her nomination. Home Minister Amit Shah extended congratulations, praising her as an embodiment of women's strength. Murty, chairperson of the Murty Trust and wife of Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy, considers it a significant Women's Day gift and embraces the responsibility to serve the nation. Her diverse achievements encompass literature, social causes, and education.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi awarded the inaugural 'National Creators Awards' in New Delhi, recognizing excellence in storytelling, environmental sustainability, education, and gaming. The ceremony featured 23 winners across diverse categories, including Best Storyteller, Disruptor of the Year, and Cultural Ambassador of the Year, won by Maithili Thakur. Notable winners include Gaurav Chaudhary for Best Creator in Tech, Drew Hicks as Best International Creator, and RJ Raunac for Most Creative Creator-Male. The awards aim to harness creativity for positive transformations, honoring influencers shaping various fields nationally and internationally.

Former UK Prime Minister Theresa May will step down as an MP after 27 years, focusing on causes like the Global Commission on Modern Slavery. May, elected in 1997, cited increasing commitments to these causes, realizing she can't fulfill her MP duties adequately. Known for her work against modern slavery, she launched the global commission in 2023. May served as home secretary and then prime minister, facing challenges like Brexit turmoil. She plans to work with her successor for a Conservative victory in Maidenhead and thanked constituents. Nearly 100 MPs, including 64 Tories, won't contest the upcoming election.

Hong Kong's government introduced a 212-page draft bill for new national security laws, facing criticism for potential crackdowns and damage to its international business image. The bill includes offenses like treason and espionage, with life imprisonment for serious violations and "external forces" considered aggravating. Supporters claim it's crucial for stability post-2019 protests, but critics argue it broadens China's definition of security offenses, impacting political dissent and business activities. The law aims to fill gaps in the 2020 Beijing-imposed version, with a previous attempt in 2003 sparking protests. Pro-democracy figures in jail or abroad, and the legislature lacks opposition.

Mahashivratri celebrations have gone global, lighting up New York's Times Square with chants of 'Shiva' and 'Shambhoo.' Sadhguru, founder of Isha Foundation, shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) capturing the vibrant festivities, showcasing people worldwide dancing to 'Har Har Mahadev.' The event signifies the growing global recognition of Mahashivratri as a celebration of human potential and transformation. The Hindu festival, observed on March 8 this year, holds cultural diversity, with varied celebrations like 'Jagara' in Odisha and a 'mela' in Gujarat, reflecting regional customs. In states like Punjab, Shobha Yatras are organized, while unmarried girls in West Bengal and Odisha observe fasts for suitable husbands.

Russia and Ukraine clashed in a night of drone warfare, as Ukraine's air force reported 37 Iranian-style "Shahed" kamikaze drones and three missiles launched by Russia. Ukrainian defenses successfully downed 33 drones across different regions. Moscow's defense ministry claimed to intercept 16 Ukrainian drones, destroying 15 over Volgograd and one near the Belgorod border. In the Kharkiv region, a Russian strike injured five, including a three-year-old child. The conflict's toll includes frequent artillery, rocket, and drone attacks, causing damage and casualties. Both nations continue their attacks behind the extended frontlines in the ongoing two-year war.