The Maldives government has distanced itself from minister Mariyam Shiuna's offensive remarks against PM Modi, stating they were her "personal opinion". In an official statement, the Maldives government said it was aware of derogatory comments on social media against foreign leaders, but these do not represent its views. It believes freedom of expression should be exercised responsibly without spreading hatred or hurting ties with international partners. The government added it won't hesitate to take action against those making such remarks. The row erupted after multiple Maldivian politicians, including Shiuna, mocked Modi's recent Lakshadweep visit, calling him names in now-deleted tweets. The government's statement attempts to defuse the escalating tensions.

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed has slammed minister Mariyam Shiuna's derogatory remarks against PM Modi, urging President Muizzu's government to disown them. Shiuna used abusive language against Modi over the Lakshadweep tourism row, taking down posts after backlash. Nasheed stressed India is key for Maldives' security and prosperity. He asked the government to distance itself from Shiuna's comments and assure they don't reflect its policy. The row erupts amidst strained India-Maldives ties since Muizzu assumed power in November 2023. Muizzu is considered pro-China while his predecessor Solih had good relations with India. Nasheed described Shiuna's language as appalling, underscoring India's instrumental role as an ally. He wants reassurance on whether or not such comments represent official government stance.

'#BoycottMaldives' trended on social media after Maldivian leaders mocked PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit, making racist comments against India. Politician Zahid Rameez and minister Mariyam Shiuna targeted Indians, triggering widespread fury. Indians cancelled Maldives trips, pushing Lakshadweep tourism instead. Celebrities like John Abraham and Akshay Kumar slammed the unprovoked hate and urged dignity first, exploring Indian islands now. Users shared photos of Lakshadweep's beauty. The provocation began with Rameez accusing India of copying small economies like Sri Lanka to profit from Lakshadweep. After Modi's snorkeling pictures went viral and Lakshadweep searches surged, the mocking posts invited calls for boycott. 

A Maldives minister's tweet criticizing India's beach tourism potential after PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep has sparked a social media furor. The tweet came as posts of Modi snorkeling in Lakshadweep went viral with suggestions for it as an alternative to the Maldives. This further strained recent tensions since President Mohamed Muizzu assumed power. Muizzu has pledged discarding the "India first" policy and removing Indian military presence. Meanwhile, Muizzu is scheduled to visit China on January 9th after an invite from President Xi Jinping. Despite previous Maldivian presidents visiting India first given close bilateral ties, Muizzu's vice president recently visited China instead - underscoring shifts in strategic regional alignments. The tweet row underscores debates around India competing with the Maldives in beach tourism.

An Indian student, Ram Raut from Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district, was found dead under mysterious circumstances in Italy on January 2nd. Raut had gone to Italy for pursuing an MBA degree and was living in rented accommodation. His death came to light when his parents tried to extend New Year greetings over a phone call which went unanswered. They then contacted his accommodation owner and learnt of his death in another house's washroom. Following this, Raut's aggrieved family approached Jharkhand government authorities seeking help to bring his body back to India. The West Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner confirmed receiving information about the death and having informed state departments to facilitate necessary action. The administration is monitoring developments and in contact with the bereaved family.

The Indian Navy successfully rescued 15 Indians and all 21 crew members from a hijacked cargo ship near Somalia. A video captures the rescued sailors expressing gratitude, chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jai." Deploying warships, aircraft, helicopters, and drones, the Navy confirmed the absence of hijackers after sanitizing the ship. The crew is now working to restore the ship's systems for a safe journey under the escort of an Indian Naval Warship. Ongoing investigations continue in the area. One sailor shared, "Proud of Indian Navy," expressing relief after being stranded for 24 hours.            

All 21 crew, including 15 Indians, aboard the hijacked cargo ship 'MV Lila Norfolk' near Somalia's coast, have been successfully rescued by Navy commandos. The elite MARCOS unit conducted a thorough sanitization operation on the vessel, confirming the absence of hijackers. The hijacking attempt was thwarted as INS Chennai, diverted from anti-piracy patrol, intervened with warnings and deployed a helicopter. The Indian Navy's prompt and decisive actions showcase their commitment to maritime security. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of piracy in strategic waterways, necessitating proactive measures to ensure the safety of seafarers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences to Japan's Prime Minister Kishida after a 7.6-magnitude earthquake claimed over 90 lives on January 1. PM Modi's letter conveyed India's solidarity and readiness to provide assistance, emphasizing the special strategic partnership with Tokyo. The earthquake, the strongest in over a century, struck near the Noto Peninsula, leaving more than 240 missing and 33,000 evacuated. Japan increased Self-Defence forces for rescue operations. PM Modi assured support, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations.

In a swift response to an attempted hijacking, India's elite marine commandos have boarded the Liberian ship MV Lila Norfolk in the North Arabian Sea. The Indian Navy's Mission Deployed warship, INS Chennai, intercepted the vessel on January 5 after it reported armed assailants. The commandos have begun the 'sanitisation' process, ensuring the safety of the ship and its Indian crew. Continuous surveillance, using Maritime Patrol Aircraft and helicopters, facilitated the operation. The Navy's proactive approach highlights its dedication to maritime security, swiftly neutralizing the threat and showcasing its preparedness in the face of potential security challenges.            

Eight ex-Indian naval officers, previously sentenced to death in Qatar, now confront varying prison terms, with undisclosed charges. The court commuted their penalties last month, sparking speculation of espionage for Israel, though official comments are absent. India reveals the legal team's access to the confidential order, converting death sentences into imprisonment. The foreign ministry urges restraint, disclosing the 60-day appeal window. The case, a diplomatic challenge, emerged in 2022, gaining attention in Indian media. Despite India's shock in 2023, the recent development awaits the legal team's decision on the next course of action.