Nepal has banned the consumption and sale of spices produced by Indian brands Everest and MDH due to traces of harmful chemicals. The Department of Food Technology and Quality Control is testing the spices for ethylene oxide, a cancer-causing pesticide. The ban will remain in place until test results are final. This follows similar concerns in Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand, the US, and Australia. Ethylene oxide is a known human carcinogen, and its use for food sterilization has been phased out in several countries. The ban affects popular spice brands exported to multiple countries, including the Middle East.

Three individuals, including a 20-year-old of Indian descent, were apprehended for two jewellery store heists in Mississauga, Canada. The robberies, orchestrated by a gang armed with hammers, occurred consecutively on May 9 and 10, resulting in the theft of significant quantities of jewellery. Following the incidents, the suspects fled in a stolen vehicle. Amid police patrols, another attack transpired in a mall, leading to the arrest of three perpetrators, including Tejpal Toor, after a pursuit. Charges of robbery and possession of stolen property were laid against the accused, with further investigations underway.

20-year-old Sai Varshith Kandula, an Indian-origin youth with family roots in Hyderabad, pleaded guilty to damaging federal property after crashing a rented U-Haul truck into the White House barriers last year. He had flown from St. Louis with plans to "seize power" and establish a dictatorship inspired by Nazi Germany. Kandula, who holds a green card, waved a Nazi flag after crashing into the barriers, causing over $54,000 in damage. His sentencing is scheduled for August 23, with prosecutors alleging his intent to influence the government through intimidation.

The Ministry of External Affairs announces the 75th edition of the flagship "Know India Programme" (KIP) targeting Indian Diaspora youth aged 21-35. Scheduled from July 7th to July 27th, 2024, the three-week initiative aims to foster connections with India, showcasing its diverse culture, heritage, and advancements in sectors like Science & Technology, Pharmaceuticals, and Agriculture. Interested participants can apply through the Embassy of India, Bogota, with applications due by May 31, 2024. The programme seeks to inspire engagement and contribution towards India's developmental initiatives.

A viral Instagram video showcases an Indian woman captivating the streets of Japan in a saree, garnering astonishment from locals. With over 7 million views, viewers worldwide engage in discussions over her attire choice. While some praise her vibrant energy, others criticize her blouse style. Amidst varied reactions, defenders highlight the historical context of saree attire. One user lauds her confidence, while another likens her to a Bollywood character. The video sparks cultural dialogue, reflecting diverse perceptions on attire and tradition in a globalized world.[ Video Courtesy: maahieway/instagram]          

Slovakia's Prime Minister, Robert Fico, survived in an assassination attempt, leaving him critically injured. Indian PM Narendra Modi condemned the attack as cowardly and expressed solidarity with Slovakia. The incident occurred after a government meeting when a 71-year-old man shot Fico multiple times in Handlova. Fico underwent surgery and is no longer in life-threatening condition. Slovak Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok attributed the attack to post-election tensions, blaming social media hate. The assailant's actions were reportedly prompted by events following the presidential election. Fico's recovery is underway as Slovakia grapples with the aftermath of this shocking incident.

A Dubai-based CEO has sparked an online debate with her advice to Indian students planning to study abroad. Shreya Pattar, founder of Shreya Pattar Ventures, suggested that students should opt for universities with fewer Indian students to avoid "toxic Indian patterns" such as excessive drama, unprofessionalism, and cliques. She emphasized that a large Indian community does not guarantee a "homely" feeling and may hinder personal growth. Pattar's post has garnered mixed reactions, with some agreeing with her views while others have criticized her for generalizing and stereotyping Indian students. The debate raises questions about cultural identity and the importance of diversity in international education.

US Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the 'Desis Decide' summit on May 15, encouraging more Indian-Americans to participate in the electoral process. Despite growing numbers, Indian-American representation in politics is still limited, with only five members in Congress. Harris acknowledged the work of the Indian-American Impact organization, a Democratic think-tank, but emphasized the need for more Indian-Americans to run for office. She noted that increased participation will lead to more diverse representation and prevent individuals from being the only one with their life experience in rooms where decisions are made.

Syed Mustafa Kamal, a Pakistani lawmaker, drew attention to the stark contrast between India's space achievements and Karachi's pressing issues. He noted that while India successfully landed on the moon with Chandrayaan-3, Karachi is grappling with open gutters that have claimed children's lives. Kamal emphasized the need to address Karachi's infrastructure and social welfare, citing the city's water scarcity and the large number of children out of school - 70 lakh in Karachi and 2.6 crore in Pakistan. He stressed that Karachi, as Pakistan's revenue engine and gateway to Central Asia and Afghanistan, deserves better infrastructure and social services.

American Sikh leader Jasdeep Singh Jassee hails Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strong ties with Sikhs and praises India's democratic process amid Western media scrutiny. Jassee emphasizes India's vibrant democracy during ongoing general elections, contrasting with US political tensions. He plans to support BJP candidate Taranjit Singh Sandhu in Amritsar, citing Modi's track record of development. Jassee envisions Amritsar as a global hub under Sandhu's leadership, with significant investments pledged. Commending Modi's efforts for Sikhs, he hopes for continued progress and addresses Canada's handling of Sikh separatist issues. Relations between India and Canada remain tense over recent allegations.