India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P. Harish, firmly rebuffed Pakistan's reference to Jammu and Kashmir during a UN General Assembly session observing the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. He asserted that such unjustified mentions neither validate Pakistan's territorial claims nor justify its cross-border terrorism practices. Harish emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir "was, is, and will always be an integral part of India." He also criticized Pakistan's "fanatical mindset" and record of bigotry. This response followed remarks by Pakistan's former foreign secretary, Tehmina Janjua, during the session. Additionally, India dismissed Pakistan's allegations of India's involvement in the recent Balochistan train hijacking, urging Pakistan to address its internal issues instead of shifting blame.

In January 2025, the UK economy contracted by 0.1%, defying expectations of modest growth. This downturn was primarily driven by a significant decline in manufacturing output, coupled with weak performances in oil and gas extraction and construction sectors. Conversely, the services sector experienced slight growth, bolstered by robust retail activity as consumers favored home dining. Chancellor Rachel Reeves attributed the contraction to escalating global challenges and emphasized the need for accelerated reforms to stimulate economic growth. The unexpected shrinkage intensifies pressure on the government ahead of the upcoming spring statement, especially with looming tax increases and potential welfare spending cuts. Critics, including Conservative counterpart Mel Stride, urge a policy shift to bolster business confidence and avert further economic decline.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing a ticketing controversy ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Tickets for CSK's matches have appeared on resale platforms like Viagogo.com even before official sales commenced. Prices for these tickets range from ₹17,804 to ₹1.24 lakh, with high-profile matches such as CSK versus Mumbai Indians on March 23 and CSK versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28 seeing prices soar to ₹40,000 and ₹55,000, respectively. This situation highlights the persistent issue of black marketing in IPL ticket sales, a problem that has plagued previous seasons as well. Despite numerous complaints from fans, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL governing council have yet to implement effective measures to curb this malpractice. Fans are advised to purchase tickets through official channels once they become available to avoid exorbitant prices and ensure authenticity.

Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath has refuted allegations that India had an unfair advantage in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy by playing all their matches in Dubai. McGrath emphasized that India's success stemmed from their adeptness on spin-friendly tracks and their comprehensive understanding of the ODI format. He stated, "You have to give credit to India; they played to the conditions. They know how to play on spinning tracks." McGrath also highlighted the positive impact of the IPL and T20 cricket on India's one-day game, noting their confidence and mastery in the format. He dismissed claims of an unfair advantage, comparing it to teams playing all matches in their home countries. 

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a high-level virtual meeting with around 25 world leaders, stressed the need for a firm stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging an unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine. Starmer asserted that Putin must demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace by immediately halting attacks. The meeting, attended by leaders from NATO nations, France, and Ukraine, focused on strengthening military and financial aid to Kyiv. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported intercepting multiple Russian drones amid ongoing missile strikes. The coalition aims to push Russia toward negotiations through sustained economic pressure and diplomatic efforts.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed gratitude to global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for their efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine. Speaking on March 13, Putin acknowledged their "noble mission" and emphasized that any ceasefire must address the root causes of the conflict. His remarks follow a 30-day temporary truce proposal backed by the U.S. and Ukraine during talks in Saudi Arabia. Putin reiterated Russia's stance on achieving a lasting peace rather than a short-term pause. China, Brazil, and South Africa were also recognized for their diplomatic efforts.

Kannada actress Ranya Rao, currently incarcerated in connection with a gold smuggling case, has penned a letter to the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) asserting her innocence and alleging mistreatment by investigating officers. In her correspondence, Rao claims she was wrongfully implicated and details instances of alleged harassment during the investigation process. She urges the DRI to conduct a fair and impartial inquiry into her case, expressing concerns about her safety and well-being while in custody. The actress's allegations have raised questions about the conduct of the investigation and the treatment of individuals in custody.  

  A grenade attack targeted the Thakurdwara temple in Amritsar, Punjab, with the incident captured on CCTV. Authorities are investigating a potential Pakistan link, given past cross-border terror threats. The explosion caused panic among locals, though no casualties were reported. Security forces have launched a probe, analyzing footage to identify suspects and their motives. The attack raises concerns about renewed terror activities in Punjab. Officials are also examining whether it aligns with previous incidents linked to Khalistani elements or Pakistan-backed groups. Increased security measures have been deployed in the area to prevent further attacks.    

Former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that he instructed officials to clean up Washington, D.C., before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, ensuring he didn’t see tents, graffiti, or potholes. Trump emphasized the importance of presenting a pristine image to foreign dignitaries, stating he wanted the city to look “beautiful”. His comments highlight his focus on optics during high-profile visits. The revelation has sparked discussions about selective city cleanups for diplomatic appearances rather than long-term urban improvements.  

Despite former U.S. President Donald Trump's optimism about a potential Ukraine ceasefire, Russian President Vladimir Putin has imposed complex conditions that hinder progress. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky accuses Putin of “sabotaging diplomacy” by setting unrealistic demands before even agreeing to a truce. Putin questions how the ceasefire would be monitored, raises concerns over Ukraine’s actions in the Kursk border region, and insists on addressing NATO expansion. Zelensky urges the U.S. to pressure Russia, arguing that only “the strength of America” can end the war. With Trump favoring a quick resolution and Putin pushing for a lengthy negotiation, an immediate ceasefire remains elusive.