Ukraine says it has sunk another Russian warship in the Black Sea near the occupied Crimean Peninsula. According to Ukraine's military intelligence, naval drones struck the Russian landing ship Caesar Kunikov on Wednesday. The ship reportedly sank after sustaining "critical damage" in the attack. This would be the second Russian warship Ukraine claims to have destroyed in just over two weeks. In total, Ukraine says it has now disabled a third of Russia's Black Sea Fleet since the invasion began last February. Moscow has not yet confirmed or denied the latest alleged strike.

India and the UAE have forged a pact to expedite the implementation of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) despite ongoing regional conflicts. The agreement, discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Gulf region, aims to bolster regional connectivity. The IMEC, envisioned during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi, will establish vital trade links between India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe, offering a significant alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative. The agreement prioritizes cooperation in logistics platforms and digital infrastructure projects, highlighting a commitment to enhancing economic ties. Modi's visit also includes significant diplomatic engagements and the inauguration of a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, underscoring India's expanding regional influence.

As tensions between Nato and Russia escalate, the Steadfast Defender exercise amplifies, revealing the scale of preparation against potential conflict. British Army vehicles, part of the exercise, reflect a concerted effort involving 90,000 troops from Nato nations. The Royal Navy's involvement, alongside over 50 ships and 80 aircraft, underscores the seriousness of the scenario. Amidst revelations of Russia's significant tank losses in Ukraine, military strategists anticipate potential conflict escalation. With global defense spending at record levels, geopolitical uncertainty heightens, with analysts pointing to the Middle East and Europe as focal points amidst growing military assertiveness.        

Amid escalating farmer protests, Delhi Police reinforce borders with innovative measures. Deploying sonic weapons and stocking lubricants, authorities aim to deter advancing protestors. Concrete-filled containers and reinforced barricades line entry points, while tear-gas drones mark a technological shift in crowd control. Modified tractors pose new challenges, prompting police readiness with defensive tactics. As tensions mount, farmers resort to kite-flying to disrupt drone surveillance. With roads resembling fortresses, the standoff intensifies, signaling a potential clash between protestors and law enforcement. As both sides dig in, the struggle for control of Delhi's borders escalates, amplifying the urgency for resolution.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates. Ahead of the inauguration, PM Modi offered prayers inside the temple premises and poured water into virtual representations of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. The grand pink sandstone temple sprawls across a 27-acre plot, symbolizing enduring values of harmony, peace, and tolerance shared between India and the UAE. The event witnessed the presence of Indian government officials, Bollywood stars, and members of the Ambani family, emphasizing the significance of the occasion.

Farmers protesting at the Shambhu border employed a novel tactic by flying kites to thwart tear gas drones used by security forces. Despite clashes and tear gas fired by Haryana Police, farmers remained resolute in their demand for legal MSP guarantees and agricultural reforms. Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda urged constructive dialogue, while farmer leaders criticized the government's stance. The farmers, equipped with protective gear, continued their march towards Delhi, emphasizing key demands including MSP laws and justice for Lakhimpur Kheri victims.

In ongoing farmers' protests, the Centre calls for a virtual meeting with farm bodies as tensions rise. Heavy security in Delhi with anti-riot gear and barricades at key points. Farmers marching towards the capital, met with tear gas, drones deployed. High alert in Punjab as police remain on duty. CBSE issues exam notice amid potential traffic issues. Traffic advisory for Delhi-NCR; Ghazipur open, Singhu and Tikri closed. Union ministers set for talks with farmer leaders. Mock drill at Tikri Border raises concerns about arresting protesters.

Poonam Pandey and ex-husband Sam Bombay are slapped with a Rs 100 crore defamation case by Faizan Ansari, accusing them of manipulating emotions and trust by faking her own death. Ansari filed an FIR urging Kanpur Police Commissioner to arrest the duo, claiming they staged the death, betraying millions and the Bollywood industry. Pandey's 'death' was initially announced on Instagram, attributed to cervical cancer, but she later revealed it as an awareness stunt. The All Indian Cine Workers Association demanded legal action, calling her actions "highly wrong" and "unacceptable." Celebrities like Kangana Ranaut criticized Pandey's controversial move.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's government, alleging a politics of appeasement and silence on sexual violence. BJP Chief Sukanta Majumdar claimed that Hindus are forced to pray secretly in certain areas, while Gaurav Bhatia, BJP's national spokesperson, accused Banerjee of turning a blind eye to harassment in the Sandeshkhali block. Bhatia went further, labeling Banerjee's government as a "government of rapists," asserting that it supports the perpetrators instead of the victims. The accusations escalate amid protests in Sandeshkhali over alleged sexual harassment by TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh.

Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa adorned the Indian Tricolour as a warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is set to address the World Government Summit. The display, featuring 'Guest of Honor - Republic of India,' reflected the enduring bond between nations, celebrated by Dubai's Crown Prince. Acknowledging India's role as a distinguished guest, he emphasized the country's innovative projects showcased at the international event. PM Modi, invited by UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will also inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir during his two-day official visit. The gesture echoes the Burj Khalifa's earlier tribute on India's 77th Independence Day.