Indian-American technology professionals from Silicon Valley organized a special 'havan' at a Hindu temple to pray for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Organized by the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), USA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, the event aimed to invoke collective blessings for BJP's decisive win. Echoing the sentiment of "Abki Baar, 400 Paar," attendees expressed deep-rooted faith in democratic processes and aspirations for continued progress in India. Prime Minister Modi aims for BJP to secure over 400 seats in the elections.

Nikesh Mistry, an Indian-origin man residing in the UK, aged 34, received a four-year and 10-month prison sentence for causing serious injury by dangerous driving and grievous bodily harm in Milton Keynes. Caught on camera, Mistry's BMW swerved, forcing a motorcyclist off the road, resulting in the biker being thrown off a bridge. The victim suffered serious injuries while Mistry collided head-on with another vehicle, injuring its front passenger. Investigating officer Pc Phil McGlue condemned Mistry's extreme road rage, emphasizing the consequences of such violence. Mistry's actions exemplify the dangers of reckless driving and the severe penalties it entails.

India grants OCI cards to 7th generation Mauritians of Indian origin, announced by President Droupadi Murmu, facilitating their connection with ancestral land. She emphasized longstanding India-Mauritius ties, citing joint efforts in security, COVID vaccine sharing, and development projects like the metro, hospital, and solar plant. Murmu praised Mauritius' participation in Indian events like Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas and G20 presidency, underscoring bilateral cooperation and support. This decision marks a significant move in bolstering cultural ties and affirming India's commitment to Mauritius' development and well-being.

In the latest World Air Quality Report 2023 by IQAir, Delhi retains its title as the most polluted capital, while Begusarai, Bihar, emerges as the most polluted city globally. India ranks third in worst air quality, with PM2.5 concentrations surpassing WHO limits. Delhi's PM2.5 levels worsened from 89.1 to 92.7 micrograms per cubic meter. In 2022, India ranked eighth with PM2.5 at 53.3 micrograms per cubic meter. Alarmingly, 1.36 billion Indians breathe air exceeding WHO limits, with 96% exposed to levels seven times higher. This underscores the urgent need for aggressive air quality management measures.

A Punjab man, Jagpreet Singh, has been charged with murder in Canada after allegedly stabbing his wife, Balwinder Kaur, to death in their Abbotsford home. Kaur, 41, succumbed to life-threatening stab wounds despite first responders' efforts. Singh reportedly confessed to his mother in Ludhiana via video call, claiming he had "put her to sleep forever." The couple, married since 2000 with two children, argued over finances, exacerbated by Singh's recent unemployment. Singh's family disputes allegations of harassment, asserting they were a "happy couple." The tragic incident occurred on March 15, just a week after Singh's arrival in Canada.

 Abhijeeth Paruchuru, a 20-year-old Indian student at Boston University, was found dead in the US, sparking allegations of murder by his family. Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, his body was discovered in a car in a forest on March 11. Despite claims of foul play, initial investigations by the Consulate General of India in New York suggest no suspicious circumstances. The student's parents are cooperating with detectives. The tragic incident has saddened the community, with condolences pouring in for the deceased. Further details on the investigation are awaited.

Paruchuri Abhijit, a 20-year-old engineering student from Andhra Pradesh, was discovered dead in a car within a forest at Boston University in the US. Suspected motives include robbery for money and his laptop. The attackers remain unidentified. Raised suspicions suggest possible conflicts with other students. Abhijit, the only son of his parents, hailed from Burripalem, Guntur. Despite initial opposition, his mother supported his decision to study abroad for his future. The tragic news has shocked his family and community. This marks the ninth incident targeting individuals of Indian origin in the US in 2024.            

In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Indian community lauds PM Narendra Modi's leadership during a Sadbhavana event. Eminent figures praise India's global stature under Modi's tenure, citing advancements in technology and economy. They commend initiatives like poverty reduction and infrastructure development, expressing solidarity with Modi's vision for a developed India by 2047. NRIs in Malaysia anticipate Modi's continued leadership, emphasizing his efforts for communal harmony and national progress. As India approaches elections, support for Modi resonates among NRIs, affirming their confidence in his leadership and transformative agenda.              

Former Indian Ambassador to the US, Dr. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, hinted at the potential establishment of a US consulate in Amritsar after a meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Sandhu, a BJP candidate for the Amritsar seat, disclosed plans for the consulate, citing efforts by both nations since 2016. With enhanced visa services and expanded trade opportunities, the consulate could bolster economic growth in the border region. Sandhu also discussed initiatives for improved air connectivity and cargo services at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, foreseeing increased trade and income for locals.            

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi plans to visit Bhutan from March 21-22, following Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay's recent trip to India. This move is unusual during election times but is seen as a significant diplomatic signal. It comes amidst Bhutan's efforts, under former PM Lotay Tshering, to resolve a border dispute with China. Last year, Bhutan and China signed a cooperation agreement for border demarcation, raising concerns of territorial swaps. Speculations suggest Bhutan might cede territory in exchange for relinquishing claims on the Doklam plateau, where India-China tensions flared in 2017.