On March 8, 2025, Manipur witnessed violent clashes resulting in one death and over 40 injuries as the state administration attempted to resume bus services between the Meitei-majority valley and Kuki-Zo-dominated hill districts. The initiative aimed to ensure "free movement" across regions, following a directive from Union Home Minister Amit Shah. However, in Kangpokpi district, protesters, primarily Kuki-Zo women, opposed the entry of a Senapati-bound bus from Imphal, leading to confrontations with security forces. Lalgouthang Singsit, 30, succumbed to bullet injuries during the unrest. In response, the Kuki-Zo Council announced an indefinite shutdown in their areas, condemning the government's actions without addressing underlying ethnic tensions. These events underscore the fragile peace in Manipur, where ethnic conflicts have previously resulted in significant casualties and displacement.

India and Ireland have agreed to set up a Joint Economic Commission (JEC) to enhance trade, investment, and high-tech collaborations. The decision was made during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Ireland, where he met Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris. The JEC will serve as a platform for addressing trade issues, strengthening economic ties, and monitoring developments at the World Trade Organization (WTO). Both nations are also working on a new Action Plan to boost cooperation in education, technology, and business, marking a step forward in strengthening their economic partnership.  

India and the United States are actively negotiating a bilateral trade agreement, focusing on tariff reductions and market access. U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that India has agreed to "cut their tariffs way down," criticizing the country's previous "massive" and "restrictive" tariffs that hindered American businesses. In response, Indian officials have acknowledged the ongoing discussions but emphasized that it is "premature" to disclose specific details, citing the need to balance mutual interests and sensitivities. Both nations aim to enhance economic ties through these negotiations, seeking a comprehensive trade pact that addresses various sectors and promotes mutual growth.

In the lead-up to the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand, former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that India should not focus on winning the toss. Ashwin noted that India has demonstrated proficiency in both defending and chasing targets during the tournament, making the toss less critical. He stated, "In my opinion, India shouldn't aim to win the toss. I'd say let them lose it, allowing New Zealand to choose what they want to do." Ashwin also highlighted the intriguing matchup between New Zealand's Kane Williamson and India's Ravindra Jadeja, emphasizing that this contest could significantly influence the final's outcome.

In a devastating escalation of violence, over 1,000 individuals have been killed in Syria's coastal regions over the past two days. The conflict erupted between security forces of the new Islamist-led government and loyalists of the ousted President Bashar al-Assad, predominantly from the Alawite minority. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that among the deceased are 745 civilians, many of whom were executed in their homes, alongside 125 security personnel and 148 pro-Assad fighters. The clashes began near Jableh in Latakia Governorate and rapidly spread, leading to widespread atrocities, including targeted killings, looting, and arson in Alawite communities. This surge in violence has prompted international condemnation and calls for independent investigations to prevent further sectarian bloodshed.   

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, speaking at the India Today Conclave, addressed questions about his political trajectory within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He emphasized his identity as a 'Yogi' dedicated to public service, stating, "I am not a successor. I am just a Yogi. And I just want to work as a Yogi." Expressing a desire to return to Gorakhpur, the seat of the Gorakhnath Math, Adityanath underscored his commitment to his spiritual duties. He elaborated on the concept of Dharma, highlighting its essence as public welfare and spiritual fulfillment, and urged Indians to take pride in their heritage and Hindu identity.  

Balesh Dhankhar, a prominent figure in Australia’s Indian diaspora and founder of the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) Australia, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for drugging and raping five women in a series of "highly predatory" attacks. Dhankhar lured victims under the pretense of job interviews in Sydney between 2018 and 2022. His crimes were uncovered through video recordings he kept. The court described him as a calculating predator who showed no remorse. Dhankhar must serve at least 28 years before being eligible for parole. His sentencing has shocked the Indian-Australian community.

India and the US are discussing a new trade deal, but officials say it is too early to reveal details. US President Donald Trump claimed India agreed to cut tariffs, calling them "massive" and "restrictive." Indian officials said both countries have trade interests and sensitivities. Talks began after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump met in February. India has already lowered tariffs on some US goods. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said ongoing negotiations should be viewed in the context of India's trade deals with other nations. The discussions aim to boost trade, reduce barriers, and strengthen supply chains.

At least 25 people died in Ukraine after new Russian strikes, officials said. In Donetsk, missiles hit homes and a shopping centre, killing 11 and injuring 40. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of targeting rescuers. Attacks also hit Kharkiv and Odesa, damaging infrastructure. Polish PM Donald Tusk warned, "This is what happens when someone appeases barbarians." Meanwhile, the US paused military aid to Ukraine, with former President Donald Trump saying dealing with Ukraine was "more difficult" than Russia. The EU pledged more support, while Ukraine continued to target Russian sites. The war, now in its third year, rages on.

Hollywood legend Gene Hackman reportedly lived with his wife Betsy's dead body for a week before he passed away. "He had no knowledge of her death," officials said, revealing that Hackman suffered from advanced Alzheimer’s. Betsy died on February 11 from hantavirus, a rare disease spread by mice. Hackman, 94, was found dead on February 26 at their New Mexico home. He died from heart disease and severe dehydration. "There was no food in his stomach," the autopsy stated. Officials believe Hackman’s illness prevented him from understanding his wife’s death.