India abstained from a UN resolution on Islamophobia, arguing it should acknowledge religiophobia against Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism too. The resolution, backed by Pakistan and China, passed with 115 in favor and 44 abstentions, including India, Brazil, and France. India's UN Ambassador, Ruchira Kamboj, condemned all religious hatred but emphasized the need to address discrimination beyond Abrahamic religions. India warned against setting a precedent for religion-specific resolutions, fearing it could divide the UN. Kamboj urged member states to combat religious discrimination globally.

Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, concluded a major rally in Mumbai, emphasizing the need for a unified front against the ruling BJP. Gandhi, wrapping up a 63-day-long yatra, rallied leaders like Tejashwi Yadav and Sharad Pawar, advocating for a "national Mahagathbandhan." Accusations were hurled at the BJP for allegedly misusing central agencies and EVMs to sway elections. The event, attended by prominent figures like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Uddhav Thackeray, marked the launch of the INDIA bloc's campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Uddhav Thackeray likened BJP's tactics to Russia's presidential elections.

In a daring sea operation, Indian Navy rescued the hijacked merchant vessel Ruen and its 17 crew members from 35 Somali pirates. The pirates, using MV Ruen as a base for attacks, even fired at an Indian naval drone. They're now being brought to India for prosecution under the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act. Typically, captured pirates are disarmed and set adrift to prevent further threats. This successful mission showcases India's commitment to maritime security and the effectiveness of its naval operations.

Former Indian Ambassador to the US, Dr Taranjit Singh Sandhu, hinted at Amritsar hosting a US consulate, revealing talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The move aligns with a 2016 decision by PM Narendra Modi and then US President Barack Obama to reciprocally open new consulates. Dr Sandhu, known for opening the Indian consulate in Seattle in 2023, emphasized the benefits for border residents and traders. If realized, this would enhance visa services and potentially boost regional trade. The initiative reflects strengthening Indo-US ties, marking a significant development for Amritsar and bilateral relations.

Indian community leaders in Malaysia praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and India's progress under him at a Sadbhavana event in Kuala Lumpur. They lauded Modi's role in India's technological and economic advancement over the past decade and his vision for an inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The event, organized by the Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF), saw the passing of a 'Malaysia Resolution' pledging support for India's development and launching of a book on Modi's dialogues. Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu presided over the event, attended by dignitaries and members of the Indian community.

India and Maldives held their third core group meeting in Male, focusing on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. The military team, operating advanced helicopters, has been replaced by civilian technical experts. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu set a March 10 deadline for the troop withdrawal. Both sides reviewed the deployment of Indian civilian technical personnel for continued operation of aviation platforms in the Maldives. Discussions also covered bilateral cooperation, development projects, trade, and people-to-people linkages. The next high-level core group meeting is scheduled in New Delhi. The move follows strained ties since Muizzu's presidency, marked by promises to reduce Indian military presence.

Indian Navy's INS Kolkata successfully thwarted Somali pirates, rescuing 17 crew members, including seven Bulgarians, from the hijacked MV Ruen in the Arabian Sea. Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Mariya Gabriel thanked India for the operation, to which External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar replied, "That’s what friends are for." The operation, involving special forces and air support, saw the pirates surrendering after being intercepted nearly 1,400 nm from the Indian coast. The Indian Air Force also showcased joint efforts with the Navy. The pirates had opened fire on the Navy before surrendering in international waters.

Unidentified assailants in the US murdered 20-year-old Paruchuri Abhijit, an engineering student at Boston University from Andhra Pradesh’s Guntur district. Abhijit's body was discovered in a car in a forest, sparking suspicions of robbery or a campus quarrel. Described as a bright student, his family initially resisted his decision to study abroad. His remains were repatriated to Burripalem, Guntur. Investigations continue into the motive behind the tragic killing.

Amid a surge in Indian students studying in German universities, Germany aims to tackle its labor market shortages by making it more attractive for Indian graduates. With Indian students forming the largest international student community in Germany, the Skilled Immigration Act facilitates smoother pathways for Indian graduates into the labor market. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee, president of DAAD, highlighted the growth of Indian students in Germany and emphasized the concept of brain circulation. Additionally, the new act allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week, expanding opportunities for Indian students seeking employment in Germany.

India dismisses US worries about its religion-based citizenship law, calling them "wrong" and "unnecessary". The law, granting citizenship to non-Muslim refugees, has stirred protests amid claims of discrimination. India defends the law, saying it upholds religious freedom and offers refuge to persecuted minorities. US State Department's comments on monitoring implementation are rebuffed by India, emphasizing the law's alignment with India's inclusive values. Tensions rise as India prepares for general elections, with the citizenship law stirring debate over its impact on religious and democratic principles.