In a historic event at the UK’s House of Commons, lawmakers and leaders lauded India's extraordinary achievements over the past nine years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. The Sadhbhavna event, organized by the Indian Minorities Foundation, saw the release of two books on PM Modi, highlighting his deep connection with Sikhism and the transformative impact of his radio program, 'Mann Ki Baat @100.' The UK parliamentarians, along with Indian diaspora members, pledged support for PM Modi's vision of a 'Developed India' by 2047 through the "London Resolution." The resolution underscores their commitment to actively contribute to India's progress and development under PM Modi's visionary leadership. The event showcased India's global prominence and growing bilateral relations with the UK, emphasizing the nation's strides in technology and economic prowess.          

The Indian consulate in Wales, in collaboration with the Sikh Council of Wales, marked the 554th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev at Cardiff University. First Minister Mark Drakeford and Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami attended the event, emphasizing unity and celebrating the Sikh Guru's teachings. Raj Aggarwal, the Indian Consul, lauded the diverse turnout, stating, "The diaspora in Wales are hard-working and prosperous and are an amazing asset to the country." High Commissioner Doraiswami reflected on the three pillars of "dedicated work, sharing, and sincere faith" during his meeting with Wales First Minister Drakeford.

The family of Nikhil Gupta, accused of plotting the murder of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US, has approached India's Supreme Court, seeking government intervention to release him from prison in the Czech Republic, reported Live Law. Gupta's family alleged religious rights violations, claiming he was forced to consume beef and pork in custody, a direct violation of his fundamental rights and religious beliefs. Gupta also asserts denial of consular access, contact with family, and legal representation. The Supreme Court has deemed the matter "extremely sensitive" for the Ministry of External Affairs and scheduled a hearing on January 4, 2023. 

Indian Parliament Member Galla Jayadev advocates for Indian H-1B and H-4 visa holders as the US introduces a renewal condition excluding dependents, necessitating their return to India. While a new pilot program allows in-country renewal for H-1B workers, it excludes H-4 dependents. Jayadev's plea highlights the distress among families and calls for Indian government intervention. The issue resonates in Parliament, emphasizing the broader impact on Indian professionals and their kin in the US. Advocacy continues for inclusive renewal measures, addressing the welfare of Indian families under the H-1B and H-4 visa categories.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau clarified his September 18 House of Commons statement on allegations tying Indian agents to Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. In an interview, Trudeau explained, “We felt... quiet diplomacy... needed a further level of deterrence.” Stressing concerns over Canadians' vulnerability, he expressed intent to reveal evidence on June 18. Responding to US comparisons, Trudeau stated, “Canada is investigating a murder and our justice system has different processes.” He accused India of an information war and ineffective discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit. India's Ministry of External Affairs has yet to respond to Trudeau's remarks.            

India's Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is discussing expanded cooperation with France's AFD development agency on small hydropower projects, which have less environmental impact than large dams. AFD India Director Lise Breuil said France has extensive small hydro experience that could aid India's promotion efforts in the 25MW-and-under category. Past AFD hydro collaborations include 80 million euros for Himachal Pradesh projects. Apart from clean energy financing, AFD also runs the Green Indian Financial System platform supporting India's green finance ecosystem. Solar remains another AFD priority via partnerships with SECI. Despite India's significant 145GW hydro potential, only 29% has been tapped so far, trailing utilization rates abroad.

India strongly condemned a statement by the 57-member Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressing "concern" over a Supreme Court verdict upholding the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. The OIC, an influential grouping of Muslim majority nations, called the 2019 move to scrap Kashmir's autonomy "illegal" and demanded its restoration. Responding sharply, India's foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said the country "rejects the statement" as "both ill-informed and ill-intended." In a veiled jab at rival Pakistan, Bagchi said the OIC's actions are at the "behest of a serial violator of human rights and an unrepentant promoter of cross border terrorism makes its action even more questionable.” He said such statements “undermine OIC’s credibility."

In a strategic move, India's government plans to extend the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (PMGS-NMP) globally, initially offering it to neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. This integrated digital tool aims to streamline infrastructure planning globally. Already showcased to 30 countries in Central and Southeast Asia, the tool garnered interest from private companies seeking efficient project clearances. The PMGS-NMP, which digitizes land records and integrates economic planning, aligns with India's vision for regional and global infrastructure development, marking a significant step towards enhancing cross-border collaborations.            

Senior officials from British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's team are in Delhi to boost negotiations for an India-UK free trade agreement. While no official confirmation exists, both countries aim to finalize the deal by February, strategically aligning with the upcoming elections in 2024. The trade agreement, initiated in January last year, has seen 13 rounds of negotiations. Despite challenges, officials express optimism, emphasizing the importance of a fair and balanced deal. The UK seeks a significant reduction in import duties, while India demands enhanced market access for skilled professionals and goods. Progress suggests a potential breakthrough.

Walmart reveals the debut of the first "Made-in-India" bicycles in selected US stores, aligning with their commitment to triple exports by 2027. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, India's envoy to the US, expresses delight, emphasizing the significance of "Make in India." Manufactured by Hero Ecotech, the cruiser-style bicycles use over 90% Indian raw materials. Walmart's Vriddhi initiative, launched in 2019, contributes to the Make in India initiative, empowering MSMEs. Andrea Albright, EVP of Sourcing at Walmart, highlights the partnership's role in strengthening global supply resilience and fostering economic growth. The move aligns with India's push for global manufacturing prominence.