India remains ineligible for the U.S. Diversity Visa (DV) lottery until at least 2029 due to high immigration volumes exceeding the program's threshold of 50,000 immigrants over five years. In 2022, India sent 127,010 immigrants, surpassing the combined totals of South America, Africa, and Europe. Consequently, India is disqualified from the DV-2026 lottery, with no eligibility through 2029. Alternative pathways, such as H-1B visa conversions, family sponsorships, EB visas, and asylum, are hindered by long backlogs and policy uncertainties, leaving Indian applicants with limited options for permanent U.S. residency. 

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif sparked controversy claiming India "could play dirty at the border," asserting Pakistan is prepared for a "two-front war" amid Afghanistan tensions. Responding to provocations questions, Asif stated, "There are strong possibilities," confirming strategies exist but remaining secretive about details. Previously, he accused Afghanistan's Taliban government of "fighting a proxy war" for India, alleging "Kabul is fighting a proxy war for Delhi." His remarks followed a 48-hour ceasefire agreement between Islamabad and Kabul after deadly cross-border skirmishes killed dozens. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring Pakistani Taliban (TTP) terrorists claims Kabul denies. The statements ignore Pakistan's documented history of sponsoring terrorism regionally.

Former Australian PM Tony Abbott declared the 21st century belongs to India, predicting its Prime Minister could become "leader of the free world" in 40-50 years at NDTV World Summit 2025. Abbott called India a crucial "democratic counterweight" to China's hegemonic ambitions, citing three key advantages: democracy, rule of law, and English language. He criticized Trump's 25% tariff on India for Russian oil purchases while China, who is buying more escaped similar treatment. Abbott warned against underestimating China's Taiwan aggression, stating "weakness is provocative." He suggested Ukraine's invasion wouldn't have occurred if NATO membership existed. Abbott criticized historical US tilt toward "military dictatorship" Pakistan over democratic India during Cold War.

US singer Mary Millben defended PM Modi against Rahul Gandhi's allegations that Modi was "frightened of Trump" regarding Russian oil policy. Millben stated Modi "understands the long game" and his US diplomacy is strategic, asserting leaders prioritize national interests. She sharply criticized Gandhi, claiming he lacks leadership acumen and suggested he return to his "I hate India tour." The controversy erupted after Trump claimed Modi promised stopping Russian oil imports, a claim India's MEA firmly rejected, stating no telephonic conversation occurred. India emphasized safeguarding consumer interests in volatile energy markets through diversified sourcing. Russia's Ambassador supported India, confirming energy cooperation "remains aligned with national interests."

India has refuted U.S. President Donald Trump's assertion that Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to halt purchases of Russian oil. Trump claimed Modi assured him the decision would be gradual, but Indian officials clarified no such conversation took place. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, India has been one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian oil, prompting U.S. tariffs on Indian imports over concerns of funding Russia’s aggression. India maintains its focus on energy security and economic interests, highlighting the need for diverse, stable energy sources. (PC: AP)  

Russian content creator Iuliia Aslamova sparked Internet debate by revealing she pays her Bengaluru house help over Rs 45,000 monthly. Aslamova defended the salary, emphasizing loyalty, professionalism, and growth rewards. After interviewing 20 candidates, she hired a nanny, implementing corporate-style incentives including 10% annual hikes, KPI systems, and 1.7x salary increases for full-time work. She now provides driving license training for her employee. Aslamova argued loyalty stems from respect and opportunity, not exploitation. The viral post divided opinions as supporters praised her professional ethics while critics claimed excessive salaries distort market rates, making domestic help unaffordable for others. Some noted the amount exceeds tech fresher salaries at major IT companies.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif sparked controversy claiming India "could play dirty at the border," asserting Pakistan is prepared for a "two-front war" amid Afghanistan tensions. Responding to provocations questions, Asif stated, "There are strong possibilities," confirming strategies exist but remaining secretive about details. Previously, he accused Afghanistan's Taliban government of "fighting a proxy war" for India, alleging "Kabul is fighting a proxy war for Delhi." His remarks followed a 48-hour ceasefire agreement between Islamabad and Kabul after deadly cross-border skirmishes killed dozens. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring Pakistani Taliban (TTP) terrorists—claims Kabul denies. The statements ignore Pakistan's documented history of sponsoring terrorism regionally. (PC: X)

On October 16, 2025, two masked gunmen opened fire at Zamindar Bar & Grill in Brampton, Canada. A video circulating online shows the assailants, dressed in black, shooting multiple rounds before fleeing. Goldy Dhillon, an associate of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, later claimed responsibility via social media, stating the attack was a warning to the restaurant owner for disrespecting their group. This incident coincided with the third attack on comedian Kapil Sharma’s Caps Café in Surrey, also attributed to the Bishnoi gang, highlighting a pattern of gang-related extortion targeting Indian businesses in Canada.   

India has strongly backed Afghanistan after deadly clashes with Pakistan. “Three things are clear – Pakistan hosts terrorist organisations, blames neighbours for its failures, and opposes Afghanistan’s sovereignty,” said EAM spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. The conflict began last week when Pakistan launched air strikes inside Afghanistan, including Kabul. The fighting killed 40 Afghan civilians and several soldiers on both sides. A 48-hour ceasefire was agreed on Wednesday. India also said it will soon upgrade its diplomatic mission in Kabul from a technical mission to a full embassy. Taliban minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said Afghanistan will send diplomats to India soon. (PC: HT)

India has denied US President Donald Trump’s claim that Prime Minister Modi assured him India would stop buying Russian oil. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said no such conversation or call happened. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India prioritizes the interests of its consumers amid a volatile energy market. Trump had said during a press briefing that Modi promised to stop oil purchases from Russia. India’s purchase of Russian oil has been under scrutiny since August after Trump imposed additional tariffs, raising total penalties to 50 percent. PM Modi said he will protect farmers’ livelihoods despite costs. (PC: X)