On September 6, 2025, amidst escalating tariff tensions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded warmly to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comment that he would “always be friends” with him and described India–U.S. ties as “very special.” Modi stated he “deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates” Trump’s sentiments, calling the bilateral relationship “very positive and forward-looking” and part of a “Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership” . External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar praised the personal rapport between the two leaders and reaffirmed that both nations remain “actively committed” to engagement . Meanwhile, Trump tempered earlier criticism about India’s actions, emphasizing enduring friendship despite disagreements. (PC: India Today)

Tamil YouTuber Madan Gowri revealed on Instagram how he lost his phone at Dubai International Airport roughly a week before returning to Chennai. After emailing the phone’s details to airport staff as instructed, he thought the device was gone for good. Much to his surprise, Dubai Police and Emirates Airlines located it and arranged to send it back to Chennai—completely free of cost on the next available flight . The Instagram post, shared on September 2, 2025, swiftly went viral with over 2.6 million views and 200,000 likes . Netizens were stunned and impressed by the efficiency and safety—some even dubbing Dubai the “safest country in the world”.

A data scientist in Minneapolis publicly condemned the U.S. H-1B visa policy after his Indian friend—who spent eight years in the country earning degrees and contributing professionally—was compelled to return to India under the strict 60-day grace period rule for visa holders who lose their job. He called the policy “ridiculous,” highlighting that she had studied, worked long hours, paid taxes, and built a community in Austin, Texas, before being uprooted. The post emphasized how such inflexible rules drive talented individuals away, urging immediate reform to retain international professionals and warning that America is losing out on innovation and investment. (PC: The Times of India)  

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk triggered a firestorm on X by declaring, “America does not need more visas for people from India,” arguing it displaces American workers . His remarks, made amid speculation that future US-India trade negotiations could include expanded visa quotas, have sparked widespread outrage, particularly given the reliance of critical sectors—technology, healthcare, engineering—on Indian talent . Critics warn that limiting access to Indian professionals risks dampening US innovation, shrinking STEM enrolments, and encouraging skilled individuals to migrate to more welcoming countries. The episode underscores policy confusion and the looming threat to America’s global competitiveness. (PC: The Economic Times)

Canada, once known for its openness to global students, is now tightening its borders significantly. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reports a record-breaking 62% of student visa applications were denied in 2025, compared to 52% in 2024 and an average of 40% in earlier years . Indian applicants have been impacted most severely, facing a staggering 80% rejection rate . In response, Canada has cut study permit quotas, doubled proof of funds requirements, and terminated the Student Direct Stream fast-track channel .

US President Donald Trump said India and Russia appear to be “lost” to China, following the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin. Sharing a photo of PM Modi, Xi Jinping, and Putin, Trump wrote, “May they have a long and prosperous future together!” The remark comes amid rising tensions between the US and India, after Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50%. Former US officials blame Trump for pushing India closer to China. Experts say China now appears more responsible in the eyes of global allies, while the US brand suffers. (PC: X)

Donald Trump shared a photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping from the SCO Summit in Tianjin. He wrote, “Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China.” This comes after Trump imposed 50% tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil. The Ministry of External Affairs refused to comment on Trump’s post. Experts say Trump’s tariff actions are pushing India closer to Russia and China. Xi and Modi agreed to improve ties, marking a possible shift in India-China relations after years of hostility. (PC: India Today)

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reaffirmed India’s strategic decision to continue importing Russian oil, stating that energy choices are driven by national interests—including cost and logistics—rather than external pressures. She also emphasized that the newly introduced GST 2.0 reforms will significantly neutralize the impact of steep 50% U.S. tariffs, helping industries remain competitive. The revamped tax structure, featuring simplified slabs and relief for consumers and businesses, is expected to boost domestic demand, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen resilience amid global trade tensions. (PC: Money Control)    

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the BRICS Leaders’ Summit hosted virtually by Brazil on September 8. Convened by President Lula da Silva, the summit aims to address punitive tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on India and Brazil. India faces a 25% tariff for purchasing Russian oil, while Brazil’s exports, including coffee, are hit with 50% duties amid political tensions over Jair Bolsonaro’s trial. The summit also seeks to reinforce multilateralism among emerging economies. This follows the SCO Summit in Tianjin, where Modi, Xi, and Putin met. Trump warned the U.S. has “lost India and Russia to China,” amid BRICS efforts to reduce dollar dependence. (PC: Brinnica)

President Trump declared America has "lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China" after the SCO summit in Tianjin, sarcastically wishing the trio a "prosperous future together." Trump's comments mark his sharpest acknowledgment of deepening ties between the three nations, all at odds with Washington on Ukraine and trade. The summit featured Modi's first China visit in seven years since the 2020 Galwan clash, signaling India's strategic autonomy over US alignment. Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, targeting Russian oil imports, while criticizing India's "one-sided" trade relationship. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar countered that the US applies different standards to China and EU regarding Russian energy purchases, highlighting growing diplomatic tensions. (PC: Mint & X)