Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo addressed the issue of tariffs under Donald Trump's administration at the India Today Conclave 2025, an annual event that brings together global leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss pressing international issues. Pompeo emphasized that Trump, who calls himself "Tariff Man," views tariffs as a crucial tool to balance trade deficits and push for fair trade practices. "He would say, 'Let's both get rid of our tariffs and be great commercial partners together,' but if not, he will impose tariffs on your products, goods, and even services," Pompeo stated. Pompeo served as Secretary of State from 2018 to 2021 and Director of the CIA (2017-2018). He dismissed concerns that Trump’s policies favor corporate interests, arguing that recent tariffs have caused major financial losses for billionaires. "If they’re trying to make money off this, it’s an epic fail," he said, referring to Elon Musk’s losses due to recent trade restrictions. He also noted that India's commerce minister is currently in the US for discussions with American trade officials, reinforcing the importance of ongoing negotiations. Beyond tariffs, Pompeo highlighted opportunities for US-India collaboration in technology and innovation. He stressed the need to reduce trade barriers in cutting-edge sectors and facilitate academic and business exchanges between the two countries. "The real place our two nations ought to be determined to succeed is in new innovative spaces where the West, India, Japan, South Korea, and Europe must compete with China," he stated. Pompeo expressed optimism that a second Trump presidency would continue strengthening economic ties between Washington and New Delhi. [ Video Courtesy : X/@IndiaToday ]

Lithuanian national Aleksej Besciokov, co-founder of the cryptocurrency exchange Garantex, was apprehended in Varkala, Kerala, by local police in coordination with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Besciokov is wanted in the United States for allegedly facilitating the laundering of billions of dollars through Garantex, which has been linked to transnational criminal organizations, including those involved in hacking, ransomware, terrorism, and drug trafficking. The U.S. Department of Justice recently unsealed an indictment against Besciokov, charging him with conspiracy to commit money laundering and other offenses, each carrying significant prison terms. The arrest was executed based on an Interpol Red Notice and a provisional arrest warrant issued by the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate at Patiala House Courts in Delhi.

The US plans to impose tariffs on Indian medicines, which may increase drug prices for millions of Americans. India supplies nearly half of all medicines used in the US, including essential drugs for heart disease and mental health. Experts warn that tariffs could lead to shortages and make some medicines unaffordable. India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently visited the US to negotiate a trade deal. Indian drug companies say shifting production to the US is too costly. Both countries are under pressure to find a solution before tariffs take effect in April.

A British woman was raped at a hotel in Delhi’s Mahipalpur by a man she met on social media. She had come to India to meet him in person. After reaching her hotel, she invited him over. They had an argument when he acted inappropriately. He then forced himself on her. When she ran to the hotel reception for help, another man molested her in the lift. The police have arrested both men. The British High Commission has been informed. An investigation is ongoing.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is set to visit India later this month, marking his second international trip since taking office. Accompanying him will be Second Lady Usha Vance, making her first official visit to her ancestral homeland. Usha's parents emigrated from India to the United States in the late 1970s. This visit follows Vance's recent trips to France and Germany, where he engaged in high-level discussions with European leaders. During his inaugural foreign visit, Vance delivered a speech at the Munich Security Conference that drew considerable attention for critiquing European governments on issues such as illegal migration, religious freedoms, and election integrity. The upcoming visit to India is expected to strengthen cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations, furthering mutual understanding and cooperation.

US filmmaker and journalist Adam Ellick shared a video showing Indian passengers retrieving luggage before the seatbelt sign was off. The clip, captioned "Classic landing in India," sparked online debate. Some agreed, saying it showed a lack of patience, while others called it unfair stereotyping. Many pointed out that similar behavior happens worldwide. A few also noted that passengers ignored a female crew member’s request but listened to a male staff member. The video gained over 75,000 views. Some users defended Indian travelers, saying competitive social habits could explain the rush.

The Trump administration has intensified its immigration crackdown, warning Indian green card holders and foreign students against political activism. Officials stated that participation in anti-Israel protests or activities perceived as supporting terrorism could lead to deportation. White House advisor Stephen Miller declared, “If you support terrorism, we don’t want you here.” The move follows the arrest of a Columbia University student accused of pro-Hamas activism. A New York judge temporarily halted his deportation, but Trump vowed further action, stating, “This is the first arrest of many.” The policy raises concerns over freedom of speech and its impact on the Indian diaspora.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized India’s high tariffs on American alcohol (150%) and agricultural products (100%). She argued these barriers hinder US exports, citing Kentucky bourbon as an example. Leavitt also accused Canada of imposing unfair tariffs on American goods. Meanwhile, India has reduced bourbon tariffs from 150% to 100% and lowered duties on some wines. The US government insists on “fair and balanced” trade practices. Trump has also warned of increasing tariffs against Mexico and Canada. The debate highlights ongoing global trade tensions under his administration.

A Carnegie Endowment survey finds 53% of Indian-Americans believe U.S.-India relations would have been stronger under Kamala Harris than under Donald Trump (40%). The survey, conducted in late 2024, also reveals mixed views on India’s political landscape, with 47% saying India is on the right track. While 46% support Modi’s policies, concerns over Hindu majoritarianism persist, with 70% agreeing his speeches reflect threats to minorities. On the ‘murder-for-hire’ case involving Khalistani separatist Pannun, 51% disapproved of India’s alleged involvement. The findings highlight the diaspora’s nuanced stance on key political and diplomatic issues.

Indian student Sudiksha Konanki, 20, remains missing in the Dominican Republic as newly surfaced footage shows her with an unidentified man at Punta Cana’s Riu Republica Resort. The University of Pittsburgh student had been vacationing with friends and was last seen around 5:50 am on the beach with Iowa tourist Joshua Steven Ribe, who has given conflicting statements. Authorities suspect drowning, but her family fears abduction. Reports say her clothes were found on a lounge chair before she disappeared. The search for Konanki enters its sixth day as concerns grow over her fate.