Kuwait rolls out an amnesty program, effective from March 17 to June 17, aligning with Ramadan, allowing undocumented expatriates to legalize their status by paying a daily fine of US $6.60 (2 Kuwaiti Dinar), capped at US $1980 (608 KD). Those unable to pay can leave without penalties but must follow new return procedures. Non-compliance may result in deportation. Residents facing issues can appeal to the Residency Affairs Department. Tens of thousands are believed to be unlawfully staying. The move aims to tackle residency violations, providing a chance to rectify status or leave penalty-free within the set period.

Singapore anticipates hosting over 1.5 million Indian tourists this year, focusing on bolstering hospitality infrastructure and streamlining visa processes. The Singapore Tourism Board aims to surpass pre-pandemic 2019 numbers, acknowledging India's vast tourism potential. Efforts include facilitating seamless visas, adding 9,000 hotel rooms, and boosting air travel connectivity. Additionally, Singapore eyes expanding bilateral trade opportunities, particularly in sectors like pharma, IT, and FinTech. The inaugural APAC edition of NRF Retail Big Show in Singapore further strengthens bilateral ties, featuring industry leaders from both nations. Singapore's initiatives aim to deepen India-Singapore tourism and trade relations.

Mohammed Abdul, 25, a student from Hyderabad studying in the US, vanished on March 7. His family in India received a ransom call demanding $1,200 for his release. Abdul, pursuing a Masters in IT at Cleveland University, last contacted his family on March 7 before his phone went off. His roommates reported him missing to Cleveland Police. The caller claimed Abdul was abducted by a drug gang and threatened to sell his kidneys if the ransom wasn't paid. Abdul's parents urge the Indian government to intervene for his safe return.

In a recent statement, the United States reaffirmed its recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory, opposing any attempts by China to assert territorial claims across the Line of Actual Control. This follows Chinese objections to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the region, reiterating its stance on Arunachal Pradesh as part of its territory. The US emphasized its support for India's sovereignty over the state, rejecting China's claims and denouncing its efforts to rename the area. Prime Minister Modi's dedication of the Sela Tunnel, enhancing connectivity and troop movement in the region, underscores India's commitment to its territorial integrity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing India's support for dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukraine seeks India's presence at a peace summit in Switzerland, with moves underway for a visit by Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba to New Delhi next week. Both India and China are likely to attend the summer summit. Modi congratulated Putin on his re-election, expressing hopes for peace and prosperity in Russia. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of India's attendance at the peace summit.

In a new video, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) founder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens former Indian ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, blaming him for the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Pannun offers Rs 25 lakh to anyone targeting Sandhu. Sandhu recently joined BJP. Intelligence sources consider this a serious threat and vow to address it with counterparts. Pannun, an American and Canadian citizen, leads the banned SFJ, wanted by Indian authorities for various terror charges. SFJ operates in the US and is outlawed in India under UAPA for anti-India activities.

Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a 25-year-old student from Telangana's Malkajgiri district, has been missing since March 7 in Ohio, USA. His family received a ransom call demanding a substantial amount and threatening to sell his kidney. Arfath had left for the US in May last year to pursue a master’s degree in information technology at Cleveland University. His family seeks assistance from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging Indian authorities to inquire about his whereabouts. Concerns rise amid recent mysterious deaths of Indian students in the US. US authorities are investigating the matter.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled two-day visit to Bhutan on March 21-22 is postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions over Paro airport. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that new dates for the visit are being coordinated between the two nations. The visit, part of India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy,' aimed to strengthen ties with Bhutan. Bhutanese Prime Minister Tobgay recently visited India. The delay underscores the significance of bilateral relations, rooted in trust and cooperation since 1968. Formalized by the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, India-Bhutan relations remain a priority for both nations.

The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is experiencing a surge in inquiries following Kuwait's announcement of a three-month amnesty scheme for expatriates. The scheme allows residents to rectify residency violations or depart without penalties. As the embassy prioritizes issuing emergency certificates and passports, it maintains other consular services. Expatriates can settle fines or leave the country under the amnesty, effective from March 17 to June 17, coinciding with Ramadan. Those unable to pay fines can depart without penalties but must follow new procedures to return. Failure to comply may lead to deportation and legal penalties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizes the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the Ukraine conflict during calls with President Zelenskyy and Russia's President Putin. Modi assures India's continued support for peace efforts and humanitarian assistance. Both leaders discuss strengthening India-Ukraine ties, with Zelenskyy acknowledging India's humanitarian aid. Modi congratulates Putin on his re-election, pledging to deepen India-Russia strategic partnership. Putin's landslide victory solidifies his power in Russia. Despite challenges ahead, Putin vows resilience against intimidation. The calls signify India's diplomatic engagement in global peace efforts amidst escalating tensions.