In response to UN Secretary-General's spokesperson, S Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, rebuffed concerns over the fairness of Indian elections. Asserting confidence in the electorate's integrity, Jaishankar emphasized that the people of India will ensure free and fair polls. The statement comes amidst opposition allegations of bias and electoral malpractice, including the recent arrest of Delhi's Chief Minister and freezing of opposition party bank accounts. The UN, along with the US and Germany, have expressed hopes for transparent elections. 

Michael Dewayne Smith, 41, convicted of fatally shooting Indian store clerk Sharath Pulluru and Janet Moore in separate incidents in Oklahoma in 2002, was executed by lethal injection at McAlester's Oklahoma State Penitentiary. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed condolences to the victims' families, emphasizing their innocence. Smith's execution followed his request to attorney Mark Henricksen to file no further appeals despite claiming new evidence. Relatives of Pulluru, including his brother Harish, urged denial of Smith's clemency, citing ongoing impact and loss.

The National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK has commenced the 'Fair Visa, Fair Chance' campaign, aiming to safeguard the post-study Graduate Route visa in the UK. Concerns have arisen due to an ongoing review by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), raising fears of potential changes to the visa system. Leaders stress the importance of the visa in attracting international students and bolstering the UK economy. The campaign seeks to maintain the two-year work opportunity for graduates, emphasizing its role in providing financial support and fostering professional growth. As Indian students form a significant proportion of visa recipients, NISAU urges policymakers to prioritize the preservation of post-graduation work opportunities.

The Akshaya Patra Foundation's milestone of providing four billion meals was celebrated at the United Nations Headquarters. Indian Prime Minister Modi commended the foundation's efforts, emphasizing the cultural importance of nutrition. Founded in 2000, Akshaya Patra reached its first billion meals in 2012 and achieved subsequent milestones in 2016 and 2019. Notable figures like Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi and N R Narayana Murthy praised the foundation's dedication to combating hunger and ensuring education for all. The event underscored the significance of nourishment in achieving sustainable development goals.

India has called on Israel to safeguard the well-being of Indian construction workers deployed under a bilateral mobility agreement. The External Affairs Ministry emphasized pre-existing safety measures and engagement with Israeli authorities following reports of potential recruitment amid the Israel-Hamas conflict aftermath. Around 18,000 Indian caregivers currently work in Israel, with the Indian embassy actively liaising with them. India reiterates its focus on citizen safety in Israel, especially in light of recent security incidents.

Sourajit Debnath, a former space scientist from India's ISRO, now representing Imperial College London, advances to the BBC's 'University Challenge' grand final. Debnath, part of a well-rounded team, showcases expertise in maths, physics, and pop culture. He contributed significantly, including correctly answering questions with Indian cultural references. Debnath transitioned from space science to computational science, highlighting challenges for international students in accessing doctoral funding in the UK. Described as "TV's toughest quiz team tournament," 'University Challenge' showcases top university students competing for the quiz championship.

In a devastating accident in Oregon, Kakkera Geethanjali, 32, and her four-year-old daughter lost their lives. Geethanjali, from Hillsboro, failed to obey a stop sign, resulting in a collision with Benjamin Hernandez-Lopez's Jeep Liberty. Geethanjali's daughter was pronounced dead at the scene, while Geethanjali was critically injured. Nareshbabu Kamathman, 36, and another juvenile sustained serious injuries. Both Geethanjali and Nareshbabu were software engineers from Andhra Pradesh, India. The collision caused a five-hour closure of the highway, with multiple agencies assisting in the investigation. The occupants of the Jeep sustained minor injuries in the tragic incident.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that two Indians reported missing after the Taiwan earthquake are safe. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government is now in contact with them. The individuals, a man and a woman, were last seen in Taroko Gorge near the earthquake's epicenter. Following the tremors, the Indian Taipei Association set up an emergency helpline for Indians in Taiwan. The MEA urged Indians to follow local authorities' instructions. The update brings relief after concerns arose about the missing individuals' safety in the aftermath of the quake.      

Japan introduces e-Visa program for Indian tourists, streamlining the visa application process for short-term tourism. Eligible countries include Australia, Brazil, Canada, USA, and more. The single-entry visa grants up to 90 days of validity and is specifically for air travelers with ordinary passports. Applicants can apply via the Japan e-Visa website, submitting necessary documents and information online. Visa fees are paid electronically, and issuance occurs after verification. Some applicants may require an in-person interview at a Japanese overseas establishment. The program aims to facilitate smoother travel arrangements for Indian tourists visiting Japan.

Two senior US treasury officials visit India to emphasize the importance of maintaining the implementation of the oil price cap aimed at limiting profits to Russia. Acting Assistant Secretary Anna Morris and PDO Assistant Secretary Eric Van Nostrand discuss bilateral issues, including anti-money laundering efforts and countering financing of terrorism. The price cap, implemented by G7 nations and allies post-Russia's Ukraine invasion, aims to curb Russian profits while ensuring stable global energy markets. Despite India's strong ties with Russia, it's urged to uphold the cap amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.