A new proposal in the United States, called the Welcoming International Success Act (WISA), could ease strict rules in the H-1B visa programme. The bill was introduced in the US House of Representatives by lawmaker Bonnie Watson Coleman. It aims to reverse tough rules introduced in 2025, including a $100,000 employer fee and stricter wage conditions. These rules made it harder for companies to hire foreign workers. Indians receive over 70% of H-1B visas, so the change could benefit many professionals and students. However, the proposal is still at an early stage and must pass the House, Senate, and receive presidential approval before becoming law.

India on Wednesday condemned the attack on a Thai-flagged cargo ship, Mayuree Naree, which was sailing to Gujarat’s Kandla port through the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry of External Affairs said, “India deplores the fact that commercial shipping is being targeted in the West Asia conflict.” The ship was reportedly hit by two projectiles, causing a fire and damage to the engine room. Twenty crew members were rescued, while three remain missing. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards later claimed responsibility for the strike. India urged all sides to avoid targeting commercial vessels and endangering civilian crew members during the ongoing conflict in the region. (PC: AP)

Induction cooktops are going out of stock in many Indian cities as people look for alternatives during the LPG crisis. Quick commerce apps and retail stores in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata reported shortages. Many households are buying electric cooktops due to rising gas prices and refill delays. Retailers said they are selling 50 to 70 units a day because of panic buying. Even induction-compatible utensils are running out in some areas. The government said there is no major shortage of LPG and domestic production has increased. However, fear of supply disruptions linked to the Iran war has pushed many families to switch to electric cooking options.

In an emotional ruling, the Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed passive euthanasia for 32-year-old Harish Rana from Ghaziabad, who has been in a vegetative state since a tragic accident in 2013. For more than a decade, his parents cared for him at home, hoping for a miracle that never came. The court permitted doctors to withdraw life-sustaining treatment, including artificial nutrition given through a feeding tube. Rana will be shifted to AIIMS for palliative care, where the process will take place. The bench said the decision aims to protect the patient’s dignity. The ruling marks a significant step in recognising passive euthanasia in India. (PC: X)

The central government on Wednesday assured that India will maintain 100% domestic LPG supply despite the ongoing West Asia crisis. Officials asked people not to panic or hoard cooking gas cylinders. The government has increased the minimum gap for booking LPG cylinders from 21 to 25 days to prevent panic buying. An inter-ministerial panel said energy imports are continuing from different sources. Natural gas is being redirected to increase LPG production. Refineries have also been asked to boost LPG output. A three-member committee will review the demands of restaurants and hotels facing supply concerns. The government said it is closely monitoring the situation to ensure steady fuel supply. (PC: PTI)

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has agreed to release 400 million barrels of oil from emergency reserves. The decision was taken by all 32 member countries. The move comes as the Iran war raises fears of global oil supply disruptions. The IEA said the oil will be released based on each country’s national situation. Strategic reserves are usually used during major supply crises or when oil prices rise sharply. The step aims to stabilise global energy markets and ensure steady supply. Officials said the release will help reduce pressure on oil prices and support countries facing shortages during the ongoing Middle East tensions.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the prize money for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday. India received about Rs 24.25 crore after winning the tournament. New Zealand, the runners-up, earned around Rs 13.08 crore. South Africa and England, who lost in the semi-finals, received about Rs 9 crore each. Pakistan earned about Rs 4.80 crore from the prize pool. The total prize money for the tournament was $11.25 million (around Rs 103 crore). The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also announced a reward of Rs 131 crore for the Indian team and support staff after their title win. (PC: AFP)

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the ongoing war with Iran could end soon. He claimed the conflict would stop “anytime I want.” Trump did not explain how the war would end or give a timeline. His remarks came during a public statement while speaking about tensions in the Middle East. The conflict between the United States and Iran has raised global concern in recent weeks. Many countries have called for calm and dialogue. Analysts say it is still unclear how or when the fighting will stop. Trump’s latest comments suggest he believes the situation could change quickly in the coming days. (PC: AFP)

Protests broke out in Telangana’s Warangal and Karimnagar after residents and political activists opposed a sharp LPG price hike and reported shortages of cooking gas cylinders. Demonstrators gathered on the streets demanding an immediate rollback of the increase and a stable supply of cylinders. Domestic LPG cylinder prices reportedly rose by around ₹60, increasing the financial burden on households, while commercial cylinders also became more expensive, affecting restaurants and small businesses. Protesters accused authorities of failing to manage supply properly. Officials, however, said LPG stocks are adequate and urged citizens not to panic, assuring steps to stabilise distribution. (PC: DC)

Two Indian nationals were killed and another remains missing after merchant vessels were attacked during the ongoing Middle East conflict, the Indian government confirmed. The seafarers were part of the crew on commercial ships sailing in the Gulf region when the vessels came under attack amid rising tensions linked to the Iran-US-Israel conflict. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, authorities are working with shipping companies and regional governments to locate the missing crew member and assist affected families. The incident highlights growing risks for international shipping routes and seafarers as the war disrupts maritime traffic and security in West Asia. (PC: X)