India continues to grapple with an unrelenting heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 44 degrees Celsius in 13 regions. The heatwave has predominantly impacted eastern India and the southern peninsula but is expected to spread to the northern plains, central region, and adjoining areas of the peninsula in the coming days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted significantly high heatwave days across these regions.
India’s global rise is undeniable, marked by economic growth, military expansion, and active participation in international organizations. However, this rise contrasts sharply with its declining influence in South Asia, primarily due to China’s ascendancy and the changing geopolitical dynamics of the region. India’s neighbors are balancing their relations between India and China, sensing the power shift. To address this paradox, India must acknowledge the changed regional landscape, focus on its strengths, leverage maritime opportunities, and engage with partners to counter China’s influence. Creative use of soft power, such as informal contacts and conflict management processes, can also help India retain its regional influence.
Canadian police have arrested members of an alleged hit squad believed to have been tasked by the Indian government with killing Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey. The arrests follow a lengthy investigation into the June 2018 murder of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen. According to sources close to the investigation, the alleged hit squad members have been under tight surveillance for several months. Police are expected to announce the arrests and share details of their investigation later Friday. India has denied any involvement in Nijjar’s murder and has accused Canada of providing a safe haven for separatists and extremists.
The Indian government has issued an updated travel advisory for its citizens traveling to Iran and Israel, advising them to remain vigilant and maintain contact with the Indian embassy in those countries. The advisory comes as tensions remain high in the Middle East following an Israeli air strike on an Iranian embassy complex in Damascus and subsequent retaliatory actions by Iran. The advisory replaces a previous one issued on April 12 that urged Indian citizens to avoid visiting Iran and Israel.
In response to rising demand from business and leisure travelers, India’s leading airline IndiGo has announced an increase in flight frequencies on the Delhi-Phuket route starting June 1, 2024. The expansion, facilitated by Thailand’s visa-free policy, will enhance travel, trade, and tourism, and strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. With this expansion, IndiGo’s frequency on the route will increase from 7 to 14 flights per week, providing travelers with more options and convenience.
Hospitals across India are experiencing an unprecedented influx of patients suffering from heat-related illnesses, raising concerns as severe heatwaves continue to grip the country. Experts warn that the number of cases could rise further in the coming days. The India Meteorological Department has forecasted a higher-than-usual number of heatwave days in May across various states. Heatwaves can lead to potentially fatal health conditions, particularly when temperatures exceed 4.5 degrees Celsius above normal. Common heat-related illnesses include heatstroke, dehydration, skin infections, and exacerbation of underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular issues.
Karnataka Tourism will participate in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, highlighting the state’s diverse tourism offerings. The state is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. From ancient ruins to pristine beaches and lush forests, Karnataka offers a blend of historical exploration, adventure, and relaxation. With UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vibrant festivals, Karnataka attracts tourists from around the globe.
Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is expected to visit India next week, marking the first high-level visit since the election of pro-China President Muizzu. The visit aims to discuss potential future travel plans for Muizzu to India and explore possibilities for a softer approach to loan repayments. Muizzu has previously sought debt relief from India, emphasizing the importance of maintaining respectful relations based on sovereignty. Amidst diplomatic tensions, Zameer’s visit seeks to foster productive groundwork, coinciding with India’s preparations for the upcoming G20 summit.
India is facing severe heatwaves until May 5th, with temperatures soaring in several regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that parts of Gangetic West Bengal and isolated pockets across Bihar will face extreme heat. The top ten hottest places in India on Thursday, according to IMD, include: Nandyal (Rayalaseema) -46.2, Palawancha (Telangana)- 45.3, Bolangir (Odisha) – 45.0, Retanchintala (Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yaman)- 44.8, Karur Paramathi (Tamil Nadu)- 44.3, Kalaikunda (Gangetic Wes Bengal)- 44.2, Vellore (Tamil Nadu)-43.6, Dharmapuri (Tamil Nadu)- 42.5, Sheikhpura (Bihar)- 41.1, Balurghat (Sub-Himalayan West Bengal) 41.0. The Bolangir district of Odisha recorded a temperature of 45 degrees Celsius, prompting the weather office to issue a heatwave warning for 15 districts in the state. Hot and humid weather is also expected in isolated pockets of Maharashtra and Karnataka Coast, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamilnadu. The Kerala government has issued instructions to close educational institutions until May 6, and has urged residents to avoid direct sunlight exposure between 11 am and 3 pm.
Weather updates indicate severe conditions over various parts of India from May 2 to 5, including Gangetic West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Karnataka, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Heatwave conditions are anticipated in isolated areas of Bihar and Gangetic West Bengal, while other states are expected to experience humid weather and rainfall. Rainfall predictions include widespread precipitation with isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds in the northeastern states, and isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya.
