Global Outlook

  Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will be on hold from February 26 to March 1 as he travels to the United Kingdom for lectures at the University of Cambridge and other engagements in New Delhi. Accompanied by his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other Congress leaders, Rahul Gandhi was in Rajasthan's Dholpur on Sunday, the day before the yatra paused for the five-day break. “Last year, we took out the Bharat Jodo Yatra to unite the country, and this year, from east to west, this Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra is being taken out to fight against the injustice happening to the people of this country," Rahul said in his address at Dholpur. Rahul Gandhi, representing Wayanad in Parliament, is a Visiting Fellow at the Cambridge Judge Business School. He delivered a lecture to students at the university on 'Learning to Listen in the 21st Century' in March last year. “February 26th to March 1st will be break days to enable Rahul Gandhi to fulfil his long-standing commitment

  Sarah Leah Whitson's alleged support for terrorism and extremist groups, such as the Houthi group in Yemen, has drawn sharp criticism from those advocating for peace and stability in the region. Whitson, who previously held a prominent position at Human Rights Watch, is accused of endorsing violence and extremism rather than working towards peaceful solutions. The Houthi group, backed by Iran, has been involved in a protracted conflict in Yemen, resulting in widespread suffering and humanitarian crisis. Whitson's purported support for this group raises concerns about her commitment to human rights and peace, which are the core values of organizations like Human Rights Watch. Critics argue that Whitson's actions not only undermine the efforts of those working towards peace but also provide legitimacy to groups that engage in violence and extremism. As the conflict in Yemen continues to escalate, Whitson's stance has become a focal point of debate, with many calling for

 India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) share a relationship that extends beyond mere diplomatic ties; it is a bond rooted in history, culture, and mutual respect. Over the years, bilateral visits between the two nations have played a pivotal role in fortifying this relationship, fostering cooperation across various sectors and enhancing strategic partnerships. These visits serve as crucial platforms for high-level discussions, enabling leaders from both countries to engage in meaningful dialogues aimed at bolstering economic, political, and cultural ties. They provide an opportunity to explore avenues for collaboration, address mutual concerns, and chart a course for future cooperation. In recent years, bilateral visits between India and the UAE have become more frequent and substantive. Both countries have recognized the importance of regular exchanges at the highest levels to harness the full potential of their partnership. One of the key highlights of these visits is the signing

A  moderate gathering of protesting farmers and a strong police response aimed at preventing them from reaching Delhi led to significant traffic disruptions along the Noida Expressway and its connecting routes. Heavy barricading, diversions, road closures, border checks, and a sit-in demonstration created a commuting nightmare for thousands of commuters, with traffic crawling or coming to a standstill for much of the day. The focal point of the traffic gridlock was a 4km stretch from Mahamaya flyover to Noida Gate, affecting traffic for kilometers in both directions. Remya Singh, who was stuck in the traffic for over two hours while on her way to Delhi, described the experience as being "marooned in a sea of cars." The journey between Noida and Delhi took between 3 to 4 hours during the afternoon and evening. The repercussions of the protest in Noida extended to central Delhi, where heavy police deployment was observed amid reports of "splinter groups of 5-10 farmers&quo

On February 14th, 2024, the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi will echo with the sounds of celebration as it officially opens its doors, marking a historic moment for cultural exchange and religious harmony. Prime Minister Modi, alongside Sheikh Mohamed, Mahant Swami Maharaj, and other dignitaries, will lead the grand inauguration ceremony, steeped in tradition and vibrant performances. Expect an immersive experience filled with Vedic rituals, prayers, chants, and music, followed by cultural showcases that weave together the rich tapestry of India and the UAE. This momentous occasion is just the beginning, setting the stage for a series of religious and community events that will unfold in the following days. While eager devotees might yearn for immediate access, a temporary waiting period has been implemented. To accommodate the influx of international visitors and ensure a smooth experience, UAE residents are encouraged to visit the temple from March 1st, 2024 onwards. Pre-registration

  Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu announced on Monday that a bilateral agreement has been reached between India and the Maldives for the repatriation of the initial contingent of Indian troops stationed in the Maldives before March 10, 2024. Speaking during the inaugural address at the final session of the 19th Parliament, President Muizzu highlighted the ongoing discussions with India regarding the withdrawal of troops and stated that the Indian Army will relocate its military personnel from one of the three aviation platforms in the Maldives by March 10. He further noted that the military personnel from the remaining two platforms will leave by May 10. President Muizzu reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the freedom and sovereignty of the Maldivian people, citing widespread support for his government's agenda, including the withdrawal of foreign troops, recovery of lost parts of Maldives seas, and the cancellation of agreements that could undermine Maldives sovereignty.

  France has introduced a special program, Classes Internationales (international classes), aimed at offering Indian students the opportunity to learn French for a year in France before embarking on their chosen degree. This initiative was unveiled by French President Emmanuel Macron during his state visit to India as the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations on January 26. The program, outlined in a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeks to facilitate access to France's diverse educational landscape for India's brightest high school graduates. The Classes Internationales program is specifically designed to cater to students, whether they are already proficient in French or complete beginners. Upon successfully completing a foundational year of language training at a French higher education institution, students can then enroll in undergraduate programs taught in French. In a statement, the French embassy emphasized the program's inclusivity, statin