Recent changes in US immigration policies have impacted even affluent Punjabis, with many now seeking to relocate abroad due to increasing challenges in securing permanent residency. The tightening of visa regulations and immigration procedures has prompted wealthy individuals and families to explore more favorable immigration systems in countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK. The shift is reshaping the socio-economic landscape of Punjab, as migration patterns shift, and affluent families, traditionally less likely to emigrate, now consider opportunities abroad in pursuit of better living standards and economic prospects.  

The Bollywood film Mrs, a remake of The Great Indian Kitchen, has reignited discussions on gender roles in India, highlighting the burden of unpaid domestic work on women. The protagonist, despite being well-educated, is trapped in an endless cycle of household chores and caregiving, reflecting a harsh reality backed by government data. India’s latest Time Use Survey shows women spend over seven hours daily on unpaid work—four hours more than men. While female labor participation has risen, experts argue it’s due to economic distress rather than social progress. The film’s themes have drawn both praise and backlash, especially from men’s rights groups.

On March 7, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) experienced two separate aircraft incidents. An AN-32 transport aircraft overshot the runway during landing at Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal; fortunately, the crew escaped unhurt, and recovery operations are underway. Earlier that day, a Jaguar fighter jet, on a routine training sortie from Ambala Airbase, encountered a system malfunction and crashed near Raipur Rani in Haryana's Panchkula district. The pilot ejected safely after maneuvering the aircraft away from populated areas. The IAF has initiated inquiries into both incidents to ascertain their causes.  

King Charles III has teamed up with Apple Music to launch The King’s Music Room, a special radio show where he reveals his personal playlist. Recorded in his Buckingham Palace office, the show features songs by artists like Raye, Kylie Minogue, and Bob Marley, celebrating music from across the Commonwealth. His Majesty also shares personal anecdotes, reflecting on how these tracks have shaped his life. This unique broadcast offers a rare insight into the King’s musical tastes and memories, blending nostalgia with a celebration of global sounds.  

London, March 9, 2025 – The iconic London Eye marks its 25th anniversary with grand celebrations, special light displays, and exclusive events. Since its opening in 2000, the Ferris wheel has become a defining feature of the city’s skyline, attracting millions of visitors annually. To commemorate the milestone, the London Eye will feature a stunning light show, interactive exhibits, and discounted tickets for visitors. Special tributes will highlight its history and impact on tourism. As one of the world’s most famous observation wheels, the London Eye continues to be a symbol of innovation and engineering excellence.

On March 7, 2025, the Trump administration announced the cancellation of $400 million in federal grants and contracts awarded to Columbia University, citing the institution's perceived failure to adequately address antisemitic incidents on campus. This decision follows a series of pro-Palestinian demonstrations that reportedly led to harassment of Jewish students. Despite Columbia's efforts to investigate and address these issues, federal authorities deemed the university's actions insufficient. The withdrawal of funds is expected to have significant financial implications for Columbia, which receives approximately $5 billion annually in federal funding. University officials are currently in discussions with the government to restore the grants and have emphasized their commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring campus safety. 

In early March 2025, violent clashes erupted between Syrian government forces and loyalists of former President Bashar al-Assad in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartous. The conflict, which has claimed over 200 lives—including 100 security personnel and 15 civilians—began after Assad loyalists launched coordinated attacks on military installations. Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa imposed curfews and deployed reinforcements to restore order. Russia and Iran urged de-escalation, while regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Turkey expressed concern. The unrest highlights the fragile security situation in post-Assad Syria as the transitional government struggles to assert control.

A special court in Bengaluru has granted three-day custody of actress Harshavardini Ranya (33) to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) for investigation into a suspected gold smuggling racket. The DRI alleges that Ranya attempted to smuggle 14.2 kg of gold, worth Rs 12.56 crore, by concealing it around her body using crepe bandages and tissues. The actress aimed to evade Rs 4.83 crore in customs duty. The court observed the involvement of a syndicate in this illegal operation and permitted DRI custody to probe further into the larger conspiracy.  

In this column, Shekhar Gupta critiques India's military procurement strategy, revealing a paradox where the country struggles with insufficient armaments despite being the world's fourth-largest military force. Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh's candid comments highlight critical gaps in the Indian Air Force, which are often ignored or downplayed by previous leadership. Gupta argues that India’s defence planning has been reactive rather than strategic, with defense purchases like Rafales and Apache helicopters serving as urgent fixes. This approach, rooted in fear and indecision, exacerbates the country's long-standing dependency on foreign imports.  

China has announced tariffs on over $2.6 billion worth of Canadian agricultural goods, including rapeseed oil, aquatic products, and pork, in retaliation for Canada's October tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and steel. Effective March 20, the tariffs include a 100% duty on rapeseed products and a 25% tariff on other items. While canola exports were excluded, signaling a potential for negotiations, analysts suggest that this move reflects China's frustration with Canada's alignment with U.S. trade policies. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions in global trade relationships.