Emirates Airlines has rolled out a convenient pre-approved visa-on-arrival service for Indian travelers, in collaboration with VFS Global. Exclusive to those holding a valid six-month visa for the US, US Green Card, EU Residency, or UK Residency and booked with the airline, the initiative began on February 1. This service enables Indian passport holders to bypass queues upon arrival in Dubai, streamlining the entry process. With Dubai being a favored destination for Indian travelers, the move is anticipated to enhance the overall travel experience, emphasizing convenience and efficiency for Emirates customers.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu adjusts stance on the Indian troop removal issue, emphasizing the need for calm dialogue instead of confrontation. Initially, Muizzu set a deadline for India to withdraw troops, accusing them of bullying. However, facing backlash from the public and opposition, he now acknowledges the importance of diplomatic norms and clear communication. Former President Abdulla Yameen attributes strained relations with India to derogatory remarks by deputy ministers. As the diplomatic fallout continues, calls for Muizzu to apologize to India emerge. The Indian troop presence in the Maldives has been a point of contention, with ongoing discussions on the matter.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the recent deaths of five Indian students in the United States are unrelated, with "no foul play or connection." MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided details during a weekly briefing, emphasizing that two were Indian nationals, and three were of Indian origin with US citizenship. Investigations are ongoing, and the MEA is actively collaborating with local authorities, consulates, and missions to assist affected families. The MEA stressed the independence of each case, urging recognition that there is "no interconnectedness" among the incidents involving Indian students and individuals of Indian origin in the US.

India has announced plans to replace its military personnel stationed at aviation platforms in the Maldives with skilled technical personnel, following a formal request for troop withdrawal from the Mohamed Muizzu-led Maldives government. The Ministry of External Affairs revealed the decision after a second high-level core group meeting in New Delhi, stating that the process will commence by March 10 and be completed by May 10. Both nations have agreed on mutually workable solutions to ensure the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian and medvac services in the Maldives. The budget for the Maldives has been revised to ₹779 crore, up from the projected ₹600 crore.

India's Ministry of External Affairs dismissed Canadian Security Intelligence Service's (CSIS) allegations of Indian interference in Canadian elections, asserting it's not India's policy to interfere in other countries' democratic processes. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated Canada has been meddling in India's internal affairs. The statement follows a declassified document citing India as a concern for foreign interference. Tensions between the two nations have escalated, notably over allegations regarding the killing of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India suspended visas for Canadians after Trudeau's claims, leading to diplomatic strains and stalled trade negotiations.

In the fifth incident this year, 23-year-old Indian-origin doctoral candidate Sameer Kamath was discovered dead at a nature reserve in the US. Kamath, a student at Purdue University, was set to complete his program in 2025. This follows the recent death of another Purdue student, Neel Acharya, prompting concerns about the mental health challenges faced by the Indian student community in the US. Experts stress the need for increased awareness and support systems to address issues like mental stress, loneliness, and substance abuse among international students. Authorities are conducting investigations into the incidents.

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the UAE's largest sovereign wealth fund, is establishing a $4-5 billion fund to invest in India via Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). In-principle approval from GIFT City's regulatory authority allows ADIA to become the first sovereign wealth fund investing in India through the finance hub. ADIA's move aligns with Modi's efforts to enhance ties with the UAE. GIFT City, offering a 10-year tax holiday, aims to become a global financial gateway. ADIA, exempt from long-term capital gains taxes, strengthens India's financial collaboration with sovereign wealth funds.

Ruqiya Fatima, the wife of Syed Mazahir Ali, an Indian student brutally attacked in Chicago, has reached out to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for medical and legal assistance. Ali, pursuing a Master's Degree in the US, was assaulted and robbed on February 4. Fatima expressed concern over her husband's condition, stating he is in shock and mentally unstable. She urged for the best medical care and requested arrangements to travel to the US with their three children. A video of the incident circulated on social media, showing Ali pleading for help while bleeding profusely. The case highlights safety concerns for Indian students abroad.

An Indian-origin student, Syed Mazahir Ali, studying in Chicago, was robbed and assaulted by armed men near his apartment. The incident left him with severe injuries. His family in Hyderabad has appealed to the Indian government for assistance. Ali's wife has requested External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's help to travel to the US. The Indian consulate in Chicago has assured all possible support to Ali and his family. The attack has raised concerns about safety and security among the Indian community in the US.

Wall Street giants are redirecting billions of dollars from China to India, marking a significant shift in global markets. Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley lead the charge, endorsing India as the premier investment destination for the next decade. With India's robust infrastructure expansion under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and China's economic challenges, investors are increasingly drawn to India's growth story. The influx of capital is propelling India's equity market, positioning it to become the third-largest globally by 2030. Despite stretched valuations, investors remain bullish on India's long-term potential, buoyed by its efforts to attract foreign investment and modernize financial markets.