Gautam Gambhir is set to become the first Team India head coach to travel with the India A squad for an overseas tour. Unlike predecessors Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri, Gambhir wants firsthand insight into India's talent pool ahead of the England tour. A BCCI source revealed, “Gambhir is keen on reviving India A tours and analyzing young players.” His push for wildcard selections helped India win the ICC Champions Trophy, and he aims to strengthen the red-ball team. This move signals a shift in India’s coaching approach, with greater emphasis on developing emerging talent.

The Trump administration has intensified its immigration crackdown, warning Indian green card holders and foreign students against political activism. Officials stated that participation in anti-Israel protests or activities perceived as supporting terrorism could lead to deportation. White House advisor Stephen Miller declared, “If you support terrorism, we don’t want you here.” The move follows the arrest of a Columbia University student accused of pro-Hamas activism. A New York judge temporarily halted his deportation, but Trump vowed further action, stating, “This is the first arrest of many.” The policy raises concerns over freedom of speech and its impact on the Indian diaspora.

NASA has announced the elimination of its Chief Scientist position, previously held by Dr. Katherine Calvin, as part of a broader organizational restructuring. This move also includes the closure of the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility branch. These changes, affecting 23 employees, align with the Trump administration's cost-cutting initiatives aimed at reducing the federal workforce. Dr. Calvin, appointed in January 2022, played a pivotal role in advising on science programs and climate-related initiatives. The restructuring has raised concerns about potential impacts on NASA's scientific research and diversity efforts.

Pakistani security forces rescued 155 passengers from the hijacked Jaffar Express, killing 27 Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) insurgents. The train, carrying 425 passengers, was hijacked in Balochistan’s Mashkaf tunnel. The BLA claims to hold 214 hostages and threatens executions if its demands, including the release of political prisoners, aren’t met. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, while authorities launched emergency operations in hospitals. The hijacking follows rising insurgent violence in Balochistan, with previous attacks killing dozens. Rescue efforts continue amid escalating tensions.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized India’s high tariffs on American alcohol (150%) and agricultural products (100%). She argued these barriers hinder US exports, citing Kentucky bourbon as an example. Leavitt also accused Canada of imposing unfair tariffs on American goods. Meanwhile, India has reduced bourbon tariffs from 150% to 100% and lowered duties on some wines. The US government insists on “fair and balanced” trade practices. Trump has also warned of increasing tariffs against Mexico and Canada. The debate highlights ongoing global trade tensions under his administration.

A Carnegie Endowment survey finds 53% of Indian-Americans believe U.S.-India relations would have been stronger under Kamala Harris than under Donald Trump (40%). The survey, conducted in late 2024, also reveals mixed views on India’s political landscape, with 47% saying India is on the right track. While 46% support Modi’s policies, concerns over Hindu majoritarianism persist, with 70% agreeing his speeches reflect threats to minorities. On the ‘murder-for-hire’ case involving Khalistani separatist Pannun, 51% disapproved of India’s alleged involvement. The findings highlight the diaspora’s nuanced stance on key political and diplomatic issues.

Indian student Sudiksha Konanki, 20, remains missing in the Dominican Republic as newly surfaced footage shows her with an unidentified man at Punta Cana’s Riu Republica Resort. The University of Pittsburgh student had been vacationing with friends and was last seen around 5:50 am on the beach with Iowa tourist Joshua Steven Ribe, who has given conflicting statements. Authorities suspect drowning, but her family fears abduction. Reports say her clothes were found on a lounge chair before she disappeared. The search for Konanki enters its sixth day as concerns grow over her fate.

US Vice President JD Vance will visit India later this month, accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance, Politico reported. This marks his second international trip as vice president after recent visits to France and Germany. The visit is expected to focus on strengthening US-India ties, trade relations, and regional security. Usha Vance, of Indian origin, may engage in cultural and community events. The White House has yet to confirm the itinerary. Analysts view this visit as a strategic move to bolster US-India relations amid evolving global dynamics.

Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia after talks with US officials in Jeddah. US President Donald Trump welcomed the decision, expressing hope that Russian President Vladimir Putin would also agree. "The ceasefire is very important. If Russia agrees, it will be great," Trump said. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Ukraine’s move "a step closer to durable peace." Following this, the US lifted its pause on intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Trump announced plans to speak with Putin and invite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the White House for further negotiations.

Reliance Jio has signed an agreement with SpaceX to offer Starlink broadband services in India, following Bharti Airtel’s recent deal. The partnership, pending regulatory approval, will see Jio distributing Starlink via its retail and online platforms while supporting installation and activation. "Integrating Starlink into Jio’s broadband ecosystem enhances connectivity across India," said Jio CEO Mathew Oommen. SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell welcomed the collaboration. With both Airtel and Jio competing in the satellite internet market, India's digital infrastructure is set for a major upgrade.