World Bank President Ajay Banga said the recent Israel-Hamas war could deal a serious blow to the global economy. Speaking at an investor conference in Saudi Arabia, Banga warned that geopolitical tensions, like the Middle East conflict, pose the biggest threat to world economic development right now. He described the current global situation as a "very dangerous juncture." Banga noted economic risks can shift rapidly, using the example of 10-year US Treasury yields briefly crossing 5% on Monday, an area not seen before.

The Kremlin dismissed speculations regarding Vladimir Putin's health, asserting his fitness. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied claims of the president using body doubles, labeling them as an "absurd hoax." The inquiries arose after an unsourced report from a Russian Telegram channel, later picked up by Western media, alleged a significant health incident for the president on a Sunday evening. Putin, known for his active image, celebrated his 71st birthday on October 7 and maintains a demanding schedule of meetings and public appearances, often televised, as evidenced by his recent visit to China and Russian cities.

On Saturday, High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami alongwith DHC Sujitoy Ghosh attended the Durga Puja festival organized by the Bengal Heritage Foundation in London. The London Sharad Utsav was also joined by Mayor and Councillors from Ealing Council, MP Virendra Sharma, and other diplomats. The Bengal Heritage Foundation started 3 years ago as a nonprofit promoting Bengal's cultural heritage across the UK and Ireland. Their flagship event is the 4-day Durga Puja festival in Ealing, featuring religious ceremonies, cultural performances, congregational worship, and meals provided free of charge. The Sharad Utsav has drawn over 10,000 visitors annually for 14 years and expanded to include other cultural events throughout the year.

Members of the British Indian diaspora are expressing their dismay over the incorrect depiction of India's map on a globe situated outside a London School of Economics (LSE) campus. They stress the integral status of Jammu and Kashmir within India, backed by the legal Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh in 1947, a recognition reaffirmed by Lord Mountbatten. Additionally, the United Nations has validated this accession. The misrepresentation of international boundaries is disconcerting, particularly for its potential influence on younger generations. The "Friends of India Society" is urging LSE to promptly rectify this error to ensure the promotion of precise information and respect for international boundaries.

Vladimir Putin is alleged to have experienced a "cardiac arrest" in his private Moscow apartment on Sunday evening. A Telegram Channel, believed to be managed by a former Kremlin insider, reported the incident. The Russian leader was supposedly found by guards in the bedroom, "lying on the floor, rolling his eyes." Immediately, doctors were called, and they later diagnosed the 71-year-old with a "cardiac arrest." Putin was subsequently transferred to a specially constructed medical facility within the apartment for intensive care. This unverified report adds to persistent speculations surrounding Putin's health and rumored undisclosed medical conditions

An off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot flying in the cockpit jumpseat allegedly tried to shut down the engines on a commercial Horizon Air flight from Washington to San Francisco on Sunday. The E-175 plane with 80 passengers was diverted to Portland, where it landed safely. The Horizon pilots reported the security threat and kept engine power on, securing the aircraft. Joseph Emerson, 44, was charged with 83 counts including attempted murder for the incident. Recordings show the pilots subduing Emerson and requesting law enforcement upon landing. Many airlines allow off-duty pilots to ride in the cockpit jumpseat.

The Statue of Unity in Gujarat has seen a remarkable growth in annual visitors since its inauguration in 2018. The towering monument to Sardar Patel has welcomed nearly 16 crore tourists in less than five years. After over 4.5 lakh visitors in 2018 and 2.7 crore in 2019, footfall dipped during the pandemic to 1.3 crore in 2020 but rebounded to over 3.4 crore in 2021. 2022 saw the highest numbers yet at 4.3 crore, while 2023 has already drawn 3.6 crore visitors so far. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's annual visit on October 31 also draws attention.

Israeli Ambassador Naor Gilon called out composer Anu Malik on Twitter for copying Israel's national anthem "Hatikvah" for the Bollywood song "Mera Mulk Mera Desh." Gilon shared an audio clip showing the uncanny similarity in melody and cadence between the two songs. Many on social media slammed Malik, 62, while others posted messages of friendship between India and Israel. Malik has been previously accused of plagiarizing numerous songs. Critics said this latest revelation is disappointing and apologize on his behalf, but also express appreciation for the patriotic Indian melody that resonates peace between the two countries.

The New Zealand cricket team and their families met with the Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamsala, India on Tuesday. Dressed in traditional robes, the Dalai Lama spent an hour interacting with the players, blessing some and playfully touching others. He allowed the team to take photographs with him. The meeting came after New Zealand's match against India on Sunday, and ahead of their upcoming match against Australia in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in Dharamsala on October 28th. The Dalai Lama recently had to cancel trips due to illness, but appeared energetic as he hosted the New Zealand squad at his hillside home.

According to CNN-News18 Reports, Khalistani groups are planning major disruptions during Vijaydashmi celebrations organized by the Hindu community in Canada's Surrey on Tuesday. Sources say pro-Khalistan individuals will attempt to block Hindu entry to the venue with large vehicles and bring protesters already gathered for the October 28th referendum. They also plan to insult Hindus and Indians by burning effigies of Indian leaders. Canadian police are unwilling to intervene citing free speech concerns.