India is finally set to deliver the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines on Friday, following a $375 million deal signed two years ago. The shipment marks India's first export of the BrahMos missile, developed jointly with Russia. Delays occurred due to a lack of a non-disclosure agreement between the two nations. This deal bolsters India's goal of becoming a major defense exporter. India aims to achieve ₹35,000 crore in defense exports by 2024-25. Last fiscal year, defense exports grew by 32.5%, surpassing ₹21,000 crore, with contributions from both the private and public sectors.

India cancels Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra's trip to Bangladesh, originally scheduled for this weekend. No reasons were provided for the postponement, and no new dates have been announced. Kwatra was set to meet Bangladeshi officials to discuss bilateral ties and prepare for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to India. The decision comes amidst the deteriorating situation in Myanmar, expected to be a topic of discussion during the meetings. Hasina's visit to India is now anticipated in late June or early July, with Kwatra's visit intended to pave the way for future cooperation between the two nations.

Canadian authorities apprehended nine individuals, including Indian-origin men, for their involvement in Canada's largest gold and cash theft. The heist, likened to a Netflix-worthy plot, saw the looting of 6,600 bars of pure gold, valued at over $20 million, and CAD 2.5 million in foreign currency. The stolen cargo, originating from Zurich, Switzerland, was pilfered from a secure Air Canada cargo facility at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah praised investigators for their efforts in solving this intricate international case.

Indian deck cadet Ann Tessa Joseph, part of the Indian crew on the Israeli-flagged MSC Aries seized by Iran, safely lands at Cochin airport. The Ministry of External Affairs confirms her arrival, stating concerted efforts by the Indian Mission in Tehran and Iranian authorities. Remaining 16 crew members are in good health, with ongoing support from Indian authorities. Earlier talks between External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Iranian counterpart ensure coordination. Iran seized the vessel amid escalating tensions with Israel. Safety concerns persist as the crew awaits clearance amidst adverse weather conditions in the Persian Gulf.

A spokesperson for the US State Department reiterated America's backing for United Nations (UN) reforms, including those concerning the UN Security Council (UNSC), in response to Tesla CEO Elon Musk's endorsement of India's quest for a permanent UNSC seat. Musk deemed India's absence from the council "absurd" and called for restructuring. President Joe Biden had previously voiced support for India's UNSC aspirations during the G20 Summit. The UNSC, currently comprising five permanent members, faces calls for expansion to better represent contemporary global dynamics, with India seeking a permanent seat.

Former Jet Airways CEO designate, Sanjiv Kapoor, countered Anand Mahindra's comparison of Dubai floods to Mumbai. Kapoor highlighted that Dubai wasn't built for heavy rains, suggesting a better analogy with heavy snowfall in Mumbai. He later clarified Mahindra might not have been mocking Dubai. Severe storms caused nationwide flooding in the UAE and Bahrain, leading to airport closures and disruptions in shopping centers. Kapoor emphasized the unprecedented nature of the rain, mentioning it produced a year's worth of rain in just a few hours.

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar assures regular oversight of US consulate development in Bengaluru, highlighting its importance for city residents and professionals. Jaishankar emphasizes Prime Minister Modi's request during US visit last year for swift establishment. Local residents welcome move, citing convenience and necessity for Bengaluru's growing ties with US. Currently, US operates four consulates in India, overseen by New Delhi embassy. Jaishankar expresses readiness to visit consulate on Modi's behalf once established, stressing ongoing coordination with US authorities for timely completion.

Swaroop Ramaswamy, a Google techie, finally obtained permanent residency in the US after a 9-year struggle, highlighting flaws in the H-1B visa system. He shared his ordeal on social media, stressing the challenges skilled workers face. Ramaswamy's case echoes the plight of over a million Indians in the Green Card backlog, facing wait times of over a decade. The current system, deemed "inhumane" by Ramaswamy, hinders talent retention and family reunification. Congressional action is urged to address the growing backlog and ensure fair immigration policies.

An Indian sailor aboard the 'MSC Aries,' seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards near the Strait of Hormuz, communicated with his family for the first time since the incident. Assuring safety, he mentioned ample food supplies and routine duties onboard. The Indian Embassy in Iran intervened, enabling limited communication for crew members. Tensions rise amidst Iran-Israel conflict, triggered by an Israeli airstrike on the Iranian embassy. Indian authorities are urged to secure the sailors' release. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged with his Iranian counterpart, emphasizing de-escalation and diplomatic resolution. Tamil Nadu government seeks assistance for the crew's return.

In response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent statement on India's resolve to eliminate terrorists, the United States has urged both India and Pakistan to pursue dialogue and avoid escalation. This comes after allegations of India's involvement in targeted assassinations in Pakistan, which New Delhi has vehemently denied. While the US maintains a non-interference stance, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh affirmed India's commitment to counter-terrorism. Pakistan criticized Modi's remarks as "provocative" and emphasized its dedication to regional peace. The situation underscores heightened tensions in the region amidst ongoing security concerns.