The United States has witnessed a sharp decline in the number of Indian nationals caught crossing illegally, reaching the lowest figures in four years. U.S. Customs and Border Protection recorded 1,628 arrests in February 2025, a steep drop from 3,132 in January and over 5,600 in December 2024. This decline is attributed to President Donald Trump’s stricter immigration policies and intensified border enforcement. The crackdown has also led to a reduction in smuggling operations, while undocumented Indian immigrants in the U.S. are avoiding travel to minimize detention risks. Authorities expect the trend to continue under ongoing enforcement measures. (PC: The Week)  

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, killing over 1600 people and injuring 2400. The quake caused widespread destruction, particularly in border regions near Thailand, where tremors were also felt. Numerous buildings collapsed, trapping hundreds under rubble. Rescue operations are underway, with emergency teams working tirelessly to save survivors. Myanmar’s infrastructure has suffered extensive damage, leading to power outages and disrupted communications. Thai authorities have also reported casualties and structural damage. The international community has pledged support as Myanmar and Thailand struggle to manage the disaster’s aftermath and provide relief to affected populations. (PC: AFP)    

In the IPL 2025 clash at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, Gujarat Titans (GT) secured a commanding 36-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI). Batting first, GT posted 196 runs, propelled by Sai Sudharsan's explosive 75 off 40 balls. In response, MI's chase faltered despite Suryakumar Yadav's 29 and Tilak Varma's 39, as they managed only 160/6. GT's bowlers, particularly Prasidh Krishna (2/18) and Kagiso Rabada, delivered exceptional performances, stifling MI's batting lineup. This win marks GT's first points of the season, while MI continues to seek their opening victory. (PC: Brand Equity)

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar's Sagaing region on Friday, resulting in at least 1,600 deaths, the deadliest natural disaster to hit the impoverished, war-torn country in years. The quake's impact was felt in neighboring countries, including Thailand, where several provinces reported casualties and structural damage. In response, international aid has been mobilized: China dispatched rescue teams and medical supplies; India sent 15 tons of relief materials; and Russia deployed specialists and equipment to assist in recovery efforts. The United Nations allocated $5 million for emergency assistance. Rescue operations continue amidst aftershocks and infrastructure challenges. (PC: Reuters)

Hamas's armed wing released a video featuring Israeli hostage Elkana Bohbot, abducted during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. In the footage, Bohbot pleads for the Israeli government to secure his release amid ongoing airstrikes. This follows an earlier video where Bohbot and fellow captive Yosef Haim Ohana described the dangers they've faced since the resumption of Israeli airstrikes on March 18. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum identified Bohbot and continues to advocate for the hostages' release. The conflict has led to significant casualties and destruction in Gaza. (PC: Firstpost & ABC)

The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has mandated the closure of illegal slaughterhouses and prohibited the sale of meat within 500 meters of religious sites ahead of the Chaitra Navratri festival, commencing March 30. Special restrictions will be enforced on Ram Navami (April 6), with a complete ban on animal slaughter and meat sales. District-level committees, chaired by District Magistrates and comprising officials from various departments, have been established to ensure compliance. Violators will face strict punitive actions under relevant laws. (PC: Leader Biography & Wander On)

A 19-year-old medical aspirant from Tamil Nadu's Viluppuram district died by suicide, reportedly due to anxiety over the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). This tragic event has intensified political debates, with AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami accusing the ruling DMK of misleading students with unfulfilled promises to abolish NEET. He urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin to disclose their strategy for scrapping the exam. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about the psychological impact of NEET on students and has reignited discussions on educational reforms in Tamil Nadu. (PC: Getty Images)

In a thrilling IPL 2025 encounter at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, Gujarat Titans' pacer Mohammed Siraj bowled a sensational delivery to dismiss Mumbai Indians' former captain Rohit Sharma for the first time in IPL history. Opening the attack, Siraj delivered a length ball around off-stump that skidded, nipped back in, and shattered Rohit's defenses, sending the off-stump bail flying. Prior to this, Rohit had scored 82 runs off 59 balls against Siraj without being dismissed. GT posted a competitive 196/8, with notable contributions from Sai Sudharsan (63), Shubman Gill (38), and Jos Buttler (29). Rohit's early departure for 8 off 4 balls left MI in a precarious position. ( PC: The Times of India & My Final 11)

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Syria, citing increased risks of terrorism, civil unrest, and wrongful detention. With the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday, there's a heightened threat of attacks targeting embassies, international organizations, and public institutions in Damascus. The U.S. government urges its citizens to depart Syria immediately and remains unable to provide consular services, as the U.S. Embassy in Damascus has been closed since 2012. For emergency assistance, U.S. nationals should contact the U.S. Interests Section at the Czech Embassy in Damascus. (PC: India Today & Spiegel)

In a recent IPL 2025 match, Gujarat Titans (GT) dominated Mumbai Indians (MI), intensifying scrutiny on MI's new captain, Hardik Pandya. Former captain Rohit Sharma was seen offering support to Pandya, a gesture that sparked widespread online discussion. Fans praised Rohit's leadership, with many calling him "Captain Forever." However, some reports highlighted tensions within the MI camp, noting instances where Rohit appeared frustrated with Pandya's decisions during the game. This blend of camaraderie and visible strain has fueled debates about team dynamics under Pandya's leadership. (PC: ESPNcricinfo)