Fintech firm PhonePe announces users can utilize UPI for payments in Singapore, following a partnership with The Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Leveraging the existing UPI linkage between India and Singapore, users can make cross-border transactions directly from Indian bank accounts. The two-year collaboration aims to enhance the visitor experience by promoting seamless UPI payments across key tourism destinations. STB and PhonePe will jointly invest in marketing efforts in India and Singapore. Indian travellers can now make instant, secure payments at over 8,000 merchants in Singapore through the PhonePe app, facilitating a smoother experience in the island city.

Two Indians, a man, and a woman, are missing after the devastating earthquake in Taiwan. They were last seen near the epicenter in Taroko Gorge. Search operations are ongoing as the death toll rises to nine, with over 1,000 injured. In rural Hualien County, buildings lean at severe angles, while in Taipei, schools evacuate students to sports fields. Rescue workers scramble to locate trapped individuals, while landslides and infrastructure damage add to the chaos. Despite challenges, efforts continue to locate the missing Indians and provide aid in the aftermath of Taiwan's strongest quake in 25 years.      

More than 60 Indian workers have landed in Israel under a government-to-government agreement aimed at addressing the country's construction labor shortage. The deal aims to bypass middlemen, ensuring fair recruitment through Israeli-led screening tests. Despite bureaucratic delays, the arrival signals progress in the partnership. Israeli authorities commit to expediting procedures to bring in over 20,000 pre-approved workers from India and Sri Lanka. The move aligns with previous discussions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

NRI woman from Andhra Pradesh, Kamatham Gitanjali, and her daughter Hanika, 5, died in a car accident while heading to a temple in Portland, US, for Gitanjali's birthday prayers. Gitanjali failed to stop at a sign, colliding with another vehicle. She was declared brain-dead, and Hanika died at the scene. Gitanjali's husband Naresh and son Braman were injured. Fundraising efforts aim to support the family, who have lived in the US for a decade. Donations exceed $150,000, with plans to transport Gitanjali's remains to India for final rites.

Sangita Jindal, president of Art India and chairperson of JSW Foundation, has been elected as the new Chair of the Asia Society India Centre Board, effective April 1, 2024. Recognized for her transformative contributions to contemporary art in India and South Asia, Jindal's appointment signifies a pivotal moment for the organization. With two decades of leadership at JSW Foundation and a wealth of experience in cultural conservation, Jindal aims to strengthen the Asia Society's impact in South Asia. Her diverse achievements and global engagement underscore her commitment to advancing arts, culture, and community development initiatives.

In the midst of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, 81 Indian students, along with 210 others, completed their MBBS degrees. Initially enrolled at Zaporizhzhia State Medical University in Ukraine, they found refuge and opportunity in Uzbekistan. Supported by Neo Consultancy and government bodies, they continued their studies at Bukhara State Medical Institute. Dr. Divya Raj Reddy, Managing Director of Neo Institute of Medical Sciences, praised the collaborative efforts. Despite challenges, the students persevered, demonstrating resilience and determination. The graduation ceremony, attended by Uzbekistan's Ambassador to India, celebrated their achievements and highlighted cross-border cooperation.          

Indian-American lawmakers, led by Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, demand a briefing from the Department of Justice (DOJ) on its strategy regarding hate crimes against Hindus in the US. The letter, signed by members of the Samosa Caucus, highlights a surge in incidents of vandalism at Hindu temples nationwide. Urging DOJ's Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for clarity, they emphasize the need for coordinated investigations and federal oversight. Concerns arise over law enforcement coordination and the impact on Hindu American communities' safety. The letter requests a briefing by April 18 to address the urgent issue.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaffirms India's inevitable attainment of a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Speaking in Rajkot, Gujarat, Jaishankar acknowledges global sentiment favoring India's inclusion but stresses the need for continued efforts. He highlights the historical dominance of five nations in the council and India's persistent pursuit of reform. Despite past obstacles, Jaishankar notes growing international support for India's candidacy. The minister's remarks underscore India's determination to secure a permanent seat and its ongoing diplomatic endeavors to achieve this milestone on the global stage.  

US Ambassador Eric Garcetti recounts his encounter with Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, revealing his staff's excitement. During his visit to Khan's Mumbai residence, Mannat, Garcetti discussed cricket and Bollywood's cultural impact. Staffers were astonished, reflecting the actor's widespread popularity in India. Garcetti highlights the significance of people-to-people connections in diplomacy, aiming to strengthen Indo-US relations. The meeting underscores the intersection of politics and entertainment, showcasing the enduring influence of Bollywood on global culture.

Overseas Friends of BJP-USA orchestrated car rallies in 20 US cities, showcasing immense enthusiasm for Narendra Modi and BJP's re-election campaign, on Sunday afternoon, Mar. 31. Attendees lauded Modi government's achievements in advancing India's development and global peace. Dr. Adapa Prasad, OFBJP-USA's national president, expressed unprecedented fervor within the Indian American community. Dr. Vasudev Patel, national general secretary, highlighted the enthusiastic participation coast to coast. In San Francisco, a substantial crowd joined a large-scale car rally, affirming support for Modi's leadership.