India has dispatched 3.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Zambia as the country battles a severe cholera outbreak. With nearly 600 fatalities and over 15,000 infections since October 2023, Zambia is facing one of its worst health crises. The aid includes water purification supplies and ORS sachets to aid hydration. Despite efforts by Zambian authorities, challenges persist due to heavy rains hindering access to safe water and healthcare facilities. The fatality rate, at around 4 percent, exceeds the norm, prompting urgent action from international organizations like UNICEF. Efforts are ongoing to contain the outbreak and provide essential support to affected communities.          

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended well wishes to Britain's King Charles III following his cancer diagnosis. The 75-year-old monarch, who recently began treatment for cancer, will temporarily suspend public engagements but continue with state affairs. Despite the diagnosis, he remains committed to his constitutional duties. The Buckingham Palace revealed that the cancer is unrelated to his previous benign prostate treatment. King Charles III, known for his generally good health, is optimistic about his treatment and aims to return to full public duties soon. The disclosure aims to prevent speculation and offer support to those affected by cancer worldwide.

Farmers, led by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, announced plans to march to Delhi on February 13. Demands include enacting a law to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. Over 200 farmers' unions, spanning the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, will join the protest. Allegations surface that the government reneged on MSP commitments made during the farm law protests, succumbing to corporate pressure. Preparations include tractor rallies, with farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and beyond converging on Delhi from Shambhu, Khanauri, and Dabwali borders. Demands encompass MSP legal guarantee, Swaminathan Commission recommendations' implementation, pension, debt waiver, and justice for Lakhimpur Kheri violence victims.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu declared during a parliamentary address, "We will not allow any country to interfere with or undermine our sovereignty," as he announced the withdrawal of Indian troops by May 10. The move sparked criticism, with opposition parties boycotting the speech and considering impeachment. Muizzu's anti-India stance contrasts with historical ties, emphasizing reduced Indian influence. Opposition leaders urge Muizzu to apologize to India, emphasizing the importance of stable regional security. India has provided humanitarian aid and medical support, but Muizzu's move signals a strategic shift in foreign policy.

In an exclusive conversation with India Today, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the diplomatic tension with the Maldives, stating that neither country wishes to escalate the issue. Highlighting ongoing discussions, he emphasized maintaining a robust relationship beyond this particular dispute. Jaishankar also discussed India's stance on China, Pakistan, and the potential return of Donald Trump to the US presidency. Regarding Indo-Pak relations, he stressed the imperative of addressing terrorism. On the possibility of Trump's return, Jaishankar expressed confidence in India's ability to adapt diplomatically to changes in American leadership, maintaining an independent stance.

President Emmanuel Macron shared glimpses of his recent India visit, expressing eagerness for increased French investments in the country. Praising India's potential, he emphasized its pivotal role in global transformation. Macron recalled the warmth of being part of India's Republic Day celebrations and underscored the enduring friendship between India and France. The video showcased collaborative efforts in various sectors and aspirations for deeper ties. Macron's remarks affirm commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation, including plans to host 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030. The visit strengthens the strategic partnership between India and France across multiple domains.

US Ambassador Eric Garcetti highlights India's pivotal role in the Quad alliance during a session at Jaipur Literature Festival. Describing India as the "driver seat" of Quad, he positions the US as a supportive partner with a corrective role. Garcetti underscores the importance of India's assertiveness in shaping the alliance's direction. The Quad, comprising India, US, Australia, and Japan, aims to deepen economic, diplomatic, and military cooperation. Despite differing perspectives, Garcetti sees the Quad as a model for global collaboration, emphasizing its strength and stability. The discussion reflects evolving dynamics in Indo-Pacific geopolitics.

Satendra Siwal, an Indian national employed at the Indian Embassy in Moscow, was arrested by the UP ATS for allegedly spying for Pakistan's ISI. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed awareness of the situation and is actively working with investigating authorities. Siwal, serving as the India-Based Security Assistant since 2021, was apprehended after failing to provide satisfactory responses during interrogation. The ATS revealed he passed confidential information on strategic activities of defense, external affairs, and military establishments in exchange for money. The MEA remains engaged in the ongoing investigation.

In the British Parliament, MP Bob Blackman slammed the BBC for its biased reporting on the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Blackman highlighted the BBC's omission of the temple's 2,000-year history before its destruction, portraying it solely as a mosque site. He called for a debate on BBC's impartiality and its failure to provide accurate global coverage. Addressing constituents' concerns, Blackman emphasized the importance of unbiased reporting, particularly regarding significant events like the Ram Mandir consecration. The ceremony, attended by thousands and led by PM Narendra Modi, marked a momentous occasion in Hindu culture.          

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar underscored India's pivotal role in advancing African interests and stimulating discussions on UN reform during its G20 presidency. Speaking at the book launch event for 'India and the Future of G20: Shaping Policies for a Better World', Jaishankar highlighted the positive reception from African leaders, emphasizing their gratitude for India's significant step in Africa's rise. He also noted the broader implications of India's initiatives, sparking debates on multilateralism and UN reform. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appreciated India's G20 presidency, acknowledging its contribution to reinvigorating multilateralism and strengthening UN goals.