Dhaka, Bangladesh – A Dhaka court on Tuesday ordered the freezing of 31 bank accounts associated with ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her family members, and their associates amid corruption allegations, according to media reports.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) stated that the frozen bank accounts belong to Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, daughter Saima Wazed Putul, sister Sheikh Rehana, nephew Radwan Mujib Siddiq Bobby, and several related organizations. These accounts collectively hold a total of Tk 394.6 crore (approximately INR 281.2 crore), according to a report by Prothom Alo.
Among the organizations affected by the court’s decision are the Bangladesh Awami League and the Jatir Janak Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Trust, as reported by The Daily Star newspaper.
This development comes amid an ongoing investigation into financial irregularities allegedly committed during Hasina’s tenure as Prime Minister. The ACC has been actively probing corruption cases involving high-profile political figures in Bangladesh, with authorities pledging to hold those involved accountable.
Political analysts suggest that this move could have significant ramifications for Bangladesh’s political landscape, as Hasina’s party, the Awami League, continues to grapple with legal challenges and allegations of financial misconduct.
Further legal proceedings are expected, and the ACC has indicated that more actions may follow based on the findings of their investigation.
New Delhi, India – Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated on Tuesday during his visit to India that Ukraine is committed to achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in its conflict with Russia. Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue, a prominent geopolitical forum in New Delhi, Sybiha emphasized that recent discussions held in Jeddah with the United States had opened new opportunities to end the war within this year.
“After the meeting in Jeddah, we gained fresh momentum and additional opportunities to bring this war to an end this year. And we are ready for this. We are not the obstacle to achieving peace. Let’s see what Russia’s response is to a ceasefire,” Sybiha said.
His remarks come shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy formally appointed a delegation to explore possible peace negotiations. The delegation, led by the head of the Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, also includes Sybiha.
A crucial element of Sybiha’s address at the Raisina Dialogue was Ukraine’s unwavering stance on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“There will be no compromises at the cost of Ukrainian territorial integrity and sovereignty. No third country has the right to block our will or our right to participate in any union, in any alliances; this is our principal position. We will never recognize any territories occupied by Russia,” Sybiha asserted.
US Leadership and Diplomacy
Sybiha also expressed optimism about the role of the United States in brokering peace, echoing sentiments previously shared by President Zelenskyy in Kyiv.
“We truly believe that under the leadership of President Trump, we could achieve a long-lasting, just peace,” he said.
Zelenskyy had earlier indicated that if Russia rejects a U.S.-led ceasefire proposal, he expects Trump’s stance toward Russian President Vladimir Putin to be “clear, tough, and direct.”
US-Ukraine Cooperation on Mineral Resources
Apart from diplomatic discussions, Sybiha also highlighted Ukraine’s readiness to cooperate with the U.S. in the area of mineral resources.
“We are prepared to sign an agreement regarding Ukrainian mineral resources with the United States. Several rounds of negotiations have already taken place, and the framework agreement is ready for signature. In Jeddah, we proposed that the American side move forward with signing this agreement,” he explained.
Current Military Situation
Despite Russian advances on the battlefield, Sybiha insisted that Ukraine remains strategically in control of the situation.
“Russia has not managed to achieve any strategic goals in Ukraine. Yes, they have made some advances due to various factors, but strategically, the situation remains under control. However, now is the time for diplomacy,” he stated.
As Ukraine continues to push for a diplomatic resolution, the world watches closely to see whether Russia will engage in meaningful peace talks or maintain its military aggression. Meanwhile, Ukraine remains steadfast in its principles, ensuring that any peace agreement does not come at the cost of its sovereignty.
Pune, India – In a shocking development, a 19-year-old youth was arrested and a minor boy detained on Tuesday for allegedly murdering their friend, a Class 12 student, in a gruesome crime that has rattled the community in Ahilyanagar district. The victim’s dismembered body parts were discovered dumped in two wells in Danewadi village, Shrigonda tehsil, near the Pune-Ahilyanagar border, police confirmed.
The victim, identified as Mauli Satish Gavhane, a 19-year-old resident of Danewadi, went missing on March 6 after leaving home to attend his Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination at an allotted center at CT Bora College in Shirur, Pune district. When he failed to return home and his family could not contact him, his parents lodged a missing person’s complaint with the Shirur police station under Pune rural jurisdiction on March 9.
The investigation took a grim turn when, on March 12, a sack containing severed human body parts—including a head, two hands, and one leg—was recovered from a well owned by Vitthal Dattu Mandge in Danewadi. Based on identification marks and an earring, the family confirmed the remains belonged to Mauli.
A subsequent search led to the recovery of another sack containing additional body parts on March 15 from a second well near the banks of the Ghodnadi River.
Police and local staff retrieving the victim’s body from the well. (Photo: News18 Marathi)
Police identified and apprehended two suspects: Sagar Dadabhu Gavhane, a 19-year-old from the same village, and a minor boy aged 17 years and nine months, both of whom were reportedly close friends of the victim. According to a senior officer from Ahilyanagar police, preliminary investigations suggest the motive stemmed from a personal dispute. “Prima facie, the accused suspected that Mauli had defamed them by spreading rumors about their closeness, possibly hinting at a same-sex relationship,” the official stated. However, the police are still verifying whether this was indeed the case or if other factors contributed to the crime.
The accused allegedly lured Mauli under a pretext—possibly using the guise of a game like Ludo, as suggested by some reports—and killed him by strangulating him before dismembering his body. “The accused confessed to using a sharp sword to murder the victim, though we suspect other tools were used to sever the body into pieces,” the officer added. The body parts were then stuffed into two sacks and dumped into separate wells to conceal the crime.
The investigation revealed that Mauli had not reached his exam center in Shirur as initially assumed. Despite a family member’s claim that he was spotted near the college gate around the exam time, police found no evidence to support this, indicating the murder may have occurred shortly after he left home on March 6. The accused had reportedly been planning the crime for over a month, pointing to premeditation.
Fact Check
Victim’s Identity and Disappearance: Confirmed. Mauli Satish Gavhane, a 19-year-old Class 12 student from Danewadi, went missing on March 6, 2025, after leaving for his HSC exam. His family filed a missing person’s complaint on March 9, consistent with police records.
Discovery of Body Parts: Verified. Severed body parts were recovered from two wells in Danewadi on March 12 and March 15, identified as Mauli’s by his family based on physical markers.
Arrests: Accurate. Sagar Dadabhu Gavhane, 19, was arrested, and a minor aged 17 years and nine months was detained on March 18, 2025, as confirmed by Ahilyanagar police.
Motive: Partially verified. Police state the accused suspected Mauli defamed them over their “closeness,” with a possible reference to a same-sex relationship rumor. However, this remains under investigation and is not fully substantiated yet. Method of Murder: Under scrutiny. The accused claimed to have used a sword, but police suspect additional tools were involved in dismembering the body, pending forensic confirmation.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation The horrific nature of the crime has sparked outrage among villagers, who staged a roadblock protest near the Seventeen Arches Bridge in Shirur on March 17, demanding swift justice. The police have deployed multiple teams to probe the case further, focusing on technical evidence and witness statements to corroborate the accused’s confessions.
This incident adds to a disturbing trend of violent crimes in the region, leaving residents of Pune and Ahilyanagar districts in shock, especially given the victim’s young age and the brutality involved. Authorities have assured a thorough investigation to ensure all aspects of the case are uncovered and justice is served.
Tokyo, Japan — As of March 18, 2025, the hashtag #コレコレ (Korekore) has surged to global prominence on X, captivating users worldwide and sparking intense curiosity about the figure behind the trend. Korekore, whose real name is Yuta Kimura, is a polarizing Japanese YouTuber and live streamer known for his unfiltered exposés and dramatic broadcasts, often aired on platforms like TwitCasting and YouTube. With over 2 million subscribers on his main YouTube channel and a reputation as Japan’s “scandal whisperer,” Korekore’s latest activities have propelled him into the international spotlight, leaving many asking.
Who is this enigmatic internet personality?
Korekore’s rise to fame began with his raw, real-time streams tackling taboo topics—celebrity scandals, viewer confessions, and social controversies—delivered with a brash, no-holds-barred style. His most recent broadcast, rumored to have aired late Monday, March 17, on TwitCasting, reportedly drew hundreds of thousands of viewers and ignited X with reactions ranging from shock to admiration.
While specifics remain unconfirmed as of 1:53 AM IST, posts on X suggest he may have unveiled a bombshell exposé, possibly involving a high-profile Japanese entertainment figure or a personal milestone update, such as his ongoing weight loss challenge (pledged in 2023 to slim from 112 kg to 95 kg or delete his channel). His March 16 schedule shift from 2 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. JST had already fueled anticipation.
The hashtag #コレコレ reflects a mix of sentiments: fans laud his fearless commentary—“Korekore says what others won’t,” one user posted—while critics decry his penchant for stirring drama, with another calling him “the king of chaos.” His past high-profile moments, like the 2022 Strawberry Prince scandal that hit 519,000 concurrent viewers or his 2024 clash with VTuber circles, underscore his knack for commanding attention. Affiliated with Liver Inc., Korekore’s streams often blend entertainment with provocation, earning him both a loyal following and vocal detractors.
Globally, X users are dissecting his appeal. “He’s like a Japanese gossip detective,” an American poster mused, while a Thai fan speculated about a new celebrity takedown. The trend’s worldwide reach highlights Korekore’s unique ability to transcend cultural barriers, fueled by real-time translations and his larger-than-life persona. As of now, with no official statement from Korekore, the buzz on X—spanning praise, debate, and memes—cements his status as a digital lightning rod. At 31, this “delivery-native” streamer continues to redefine online influence, one viral moment at a time.
SANTA CLARA/SAN FRANCISCO — Intel Corporation named Lip-Bu Tan as its new Chief Executive Officer, thrusting a little-known but immensely influential tech veteran into one of the highest-profile roles in Silicon Valley. Effective March 18, Tan steps into the spotlight to helm a troubled chipmaking legend that once put the “silicon” in Silicon Valley, following a board announcement that sent Intel shares surging over 12% in after-hours trading. As hashtags like #IntelCEO and #LipBuTan trend on X, Tan’s storied career as a successful underdog—turning long shots into tech titans—offers hope for a dramatic turnaround at a company facing its steepest challenges yet.
Tan, 65, may be unfamiliar to the public, but his name resonates deeply within the tech industry. Born in Malaysia, raised in Singapore, and now a naturalized American citizen, he arrived in the U.S. for advanced education, earning a Bachelor of Science in physics from Nanyang Technological University, a Master’s in nuclear engineering from MIT, and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. In 1987, he founded Walden International, a venture capital firm named after Thoreau’s Walden Pond, reflecting his penchant for unconventional bets. Tan’s strategy—backing small teams of engineers with bold chip designs to challenge industry giants—yielded blockbuster successes.
Who is Lip-Bu Tan?
Lip-Bu Tan, born in 1959 in Muar, Malaysia, is of Malaysian-Chinese descent. He was raised in Singapore, where he earned a degree in physics from Nanyang University. He later moved to the United States to pursue a Master’s in Nuclear Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
His stake in Annapurna Labs, sold to Amazon for $370 million in 2015, now powers Amazon’s in-house chip division, outpacing Intel’s own processors. Another win, Nuvia, fetched $1.4 billion from Qualcomm in 2021, proving Tan’s knack for spotting winners.
His most celebrated feat came as CEO of Cadence Design Systems from 2009 to 2021, where he transformed a faltering firm into a $2.6 billion powerhouse, up from $1 billion, with a stock rise of 3,200%. By forging a pivotal alliance with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and prioritizing customer-driven innovation, Tan made Cadence a linchpin for tech giants like Apple—ironically contributing to Intel’s decline as Apple shifted away from its chips. “Tan’s an underdog whisperer,” said Karl Freund of Cambrian AI Research. “He knows how to turn small into big.”
Now, Tan faces Intel’s existential crisis. The company reported a $18.76 billion loss in 2024—its first annual deficit since 1986—hammered by Nvidia’s AI supremacy, TSMC’s manufacturing edge, and missed opportunities in mobile and foundry markets. Having served on Intel’s board until August 2024 (leaving over strategic clashes with ousted CEO Pat Gelsinger), Tan inherits a firm under investor pressure to slash costs and possibly spin off its foundry arm. Yet, in a March 12 letter to Intel’s 100,000 employees, he rejected breakup talk: “Together, we will restore Intel’s position as a world-class products company and delight our customers like never before.”
Tan’s edge lies in his industry clout. Virtually every former and potential Intel customer—from Amazon to AMD’s Lisa Su and Nvidia’s Jensen Huang—knows him, having bought his backed startups or used Cadence software. On X, optimism abounds: “Lip-Bu’s the guy who beat giants before—he can save Intel,” one user posted. Analysts speculate he’ll leverage TSMC ties or fast-track Intel’s 18A process to regain footing. As of March 18, 2025, with Intel’s performance now on global display, Tan’s proven underdog playbook—honed over decades in California’s tech crucible—positions him as the unlikely savior Silicon Valley’s original giant desperately needs.
Washington, USA — The Trump administration has ordered South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, to leave the country by Friday, March 21, 2025, after declaring him “persona non grata” last week. The State Department’s decision, announced on Monday, March 17, escalates tensions between Washington and Pretoria, spotlighting a deepening rift under President Donald Trump’s second term.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio triggered the move with a scathing post on X on Friday, March 14, while returning from a Group of 7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Canada. Labeling Rasool a “race-baiting politician” who “hates America and hates POTUS,” Rubio linked to a Breitbart article about Rasool’s remarks during a South African think tank webinar earlier that day. Speaking via videoconference from Johannesburg, Rasool had framed Trump’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement as a “supremacist instinct” tied to the U.S.’s shifting demographics, where white voters are projected to lose majority status. The comments drew swift backlash from the administration.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that South African embassy staff were summoned on Friday and handed a diplomatic note formally designating Rasool as unwelcome. “His diplomatic privileges and immunities expired Monday, and he is required to depart by Friday,” Bruce told reporters on March 17, calling Rasool’s remarks “unacceptable to the United States, not just to the president, but to every American.” Such an expulsion of a foreign ambassador is a rare diplomatic rebuke, though lower-ranking officials are more commonly targeted with persona non grata status.
South Africa’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Chrispin Phiri, in a Monday interview with the South Africa Broadcasting Corporation, said Rasool remained in the U.S. but would leave “as soon as possible.” Phiri expressed frustration over Rubio’s use of social media to announce the decision—posted at 4:42 p.m. Friday—before formal notification, arguing that diplomatic protocol should take precedence. “Twitter (X) seems to be the preferred mode of communication for this administration,” he noted wryly. Bruce countered that the embassy meeting occurred earlier Friday, though she did not specify a time.
The expulsion follows other Trump administration actions against South Africa. Last month, Trump signed an executive order halting U.S. funding to the country, accusing its Black-led government of pursuing “anti-white policies” through a new land expropriation law—claims South Africa denies—and supporting “bad actors” like Hamas and Iran. Influenced by South African-born adviser Elon Musk, the administration also offered expedited resettlement for white Afrikaners, further straining ties.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, addressing reporters on Monday, called the move “regrettable” but downplayed it as a “hiccup” his government aims to resolve. “We’ve noted the displeasure expressed by the United States, particularly about Rasool’s remarks,” he said, adding that Rasool would brief him upon return. “We will engage with the U.S. formally, with deep respect for them and President Trump, to put our relationship on an even keel. I urge South Africans not to lose sleep over this.”
Rasool, a seasoned diplomat and anti-apartheid veteran who previously served as ambassador from 2010 to 2015, has not commented publicly. Bruce emphasized the U.S. expectation of mutual respect: “We’ve had decent diplomacy with South Africa despite challenges. You need embassy officials who facilitate relationships, not undermine them.”
As of March 18, 2025, the episode underscores the Trump administration’s assertive stance toward perceived adversaries, leaving U.S.-South Africa relations on shaky ground as Rasool’s Friday deadline looms.
New Delhi, India — On Monday, March 17, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to New Delhi, marking a significant step in deepening defense and economic ties between the two nations. The leaders’ meeting at Hyderabad House came a day after India and New Zealand announced the revival of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations, dormant for over a decade, signaling a renewed push to bolster their bilateral relationship.
During the talks, Modi and Luxon signed multiple agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in key sectors: defense, food processing, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and critical minerals. The defense pact includes provisions for joint military training, exercises, and port visits, reflecting a shared commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region. “We have decided to strengthen and institutionalize our defense and security collaboration,” Modi said in a joint press conference, emphasizing a roadmap for mutual cooperation in defense industries.
Luxon, leading a high-level delegation that includes business leaders and parliamentarians on his five-day visit, described the discussions as “highly productive.” He underscored New Zealand’s intent to expand ties across a broad spectrum: “New Zealand is committed to doing more with India in defense and security, trade and economics, people-to-people ties, education, tourism, sports, and culture.” His visit, which began Sunday, also saw him pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, highlighting cultural goodwill.
The FTA revival, announced on March 16 following talks between New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, aims to address past sticking points and unlock economic potential. Negotiations, stalled since 2015 after nine rounds, had faltered over issues like New Zealand’s dairy exports and India’s protective agricultural policies. India’s Commerce Ministry stated the renewed effort seeks “balanced outcomes that enhance supply-chain integration and improve market access,” though specifics remain under wraps. Bilateral trade, valued at $1.7 billion in the 2023-24 financial year, is targeted to grow significantly, with both nations eyeing a $5 billion milestone by 2030.
This development aligns with India’s broader trade strategy, spurred by U.S. President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs on imports, including from India. In recent weeks, India has accelerated FTA talks globally, agreeing last month with the European Union to finalize a long-pending deal by year-end and advancing negotiations with the United Kingdom. For New Zealand, the talks reflect a pivot to diversify trade partnerships beyond China, leveraging India’s 1.4 billion-strong market.
Luxon’s visit, his first official trip to India as prime minister, underscores the growing momentum. Accompanied by the largest-ever New Zealand delegation to India, he will also address the Raisina Dialogue as the keynote speaker and visit Mumbai to meet business leaders and inspect naval vessels, including the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Te Kaha. Modi highlighted the Indian diaspora’s role—over 200,000 strong in New Zealand—as a bridge, noting plans to celebrate a century of sporting ties in 2026.
As of March 18, 2025, with FTA talks set to unfold over multiple rounds, the Modi-Luxon summit lays a robust foundation for a partnership blending economic ambition with strategic alignment, poised to reshape India-New Zealand relations in a dynamic global landscape.
New Delhi, India – Indian passport holders are gaining increased access to global travel opportunities, with a growing number of countries offering visa-free entry, visa on arrival, or e-visa options. As of 2025, the Indian passport ranks 85th on the Henley Passport Index, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 57 countries and territories. This enhanced mobility reflects India’s strengthening diplomatic ties and opens doors to diverse destinations for tourism, business, and cultural exploration.
The appeal of visa-free travel lies in its simplicity, allowing Indian citizens to bypass lengthy visa application processes. Countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Thailand top the list for visa-free access, offering rich cultural experiences and natural beauty without the need for prior authorization. Nepal provides unlimited visa-free entry for Indian travelers, making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts with its Himalayan treks and ancient temples.
Bhutan, known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” allows stays of up to 14 days without a visa, attracting visitors with its serene landscapes and spiritual sites. Thailand has recently extended its visa-free policy indefinitely, permitting Indian nationals to stay for up to 60 days, extendable by an additional 30 days, thanks to its vibrant beaches and affordable tourism offerings.
Other standout destinations include Mauritius, which offers a 90-day visa-free stay, renowned for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts, and Malaysia, providing a 30-day visa-free entry to explore its bustling cities and natural wonders. These countries not only cater to budget travelers but also appeal to those seeking diverse experiences, from tropical getaways to cultural immersion.
For those open to visa-on-arrival options, 37 countries welcome Indian passport holders upon arrival, including Thailand, Indonesia, and Kenya. Thailand’s visa-on-arrival facility, combined with its recent visa-free extension, makes it a particularly attractive destination, while Kenya’s 90-day visa-free entry, effective since January 2024, boosts its appeal for safari enthusiasts. Additionally, 41 countries offer e-visa facilities, such as Russia, Turkey, and Singapore, providing a convenient online application process that simplifies travel planning.
Travel experts emphasize the importance of verifying entry requirements, as conditions like a valid passport (minimum six months validity), proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds may apply. The surge in visa-friendly policies, including Thailand’s indefinite extension and Sri Lanka’s visa-free entry until March 31, 2025, reflects a global push to boost tourism, benefiting Indian travelers significantly.
This expansion of travel options comes at an opportune time, with the summer vacation season approaching, encouraging Indian passport holders to explore these destinations. Whether it’s the cultural richness of Nepal, the tropical allure of Mauritius, or the adventurous landscapes of Bhutan, these visa-friendly countries are redefining international travel for Indians in 2025.
General Observations and Tips
Passport Validity: Across all these destinations, a passport valid for at least six months is a standard requirement. Indian travelers should renew their passports well in advance if nearing expiration.
Proof of Funds and Travel Plans: While enforcement varies, having proof of sufficient funds, accommodation, and onward travel is advisable to avoid scrutiny at immigration checkpoints.
Evolving Policies: Thailand’s introduction of the ETA system highlights how visa policies can change. Indian travelers should regularly check official government websites or consult with embassies for the latest updates, especially for countries like Sri Lanka, where visa-free entry is set to expire on March 31, 2025.
Travel Insurance: Though not mandatory for these countries, travel insurance is recommended, particularly for adventure activities in Nepal or Bhutan, or for medical emergencies in Mauritius or Thailand, where healthcare costs can be high for foreigners.
Regional Restrictions: Some areas within these countries may have additional requirements. For example, in Nepal, permits are needed for certain trekking regions, and in Bhutan, travel outside Thimphu or Paro may require a special route permit.
Broader Context
The visa-free access to these countries reflects a global trend where nations are easing travel restrictions to boost tourism, a critical economic sector post-pandemic. However, policies like Thailand’s ETA requirement suggest a balance between accessibility and security, a trend that may continue as countries refine their immigration systems. For Indian passport holders, this expanded access—57 destinations as of 2025 per the Henley Passport Index—offers unprecedented travel opportunities, but it also underscores the need for diligence in meeting entry conditions to ensure smooth journeys.
Quetta, Pakistan – A suicide car bomber targeted a convoy of buses carrying security forces in restive southwestern Pakistan on Sunday, killing at least five officers and two civilians, the military and police said. The attack took place in Naushki, a district in Balochistan province, marking a violent escalation in the region’s ongoing insurgency.
Ten people were also wounded in the attack, according to Zafar Zamanani, a local police chief. The dead and wounded, some of whom are in critical condition, were promptly transported to a hospital for treatment. Authorities reported that separatist rebels opened fire on the buses following the car bombing, intensifying the assault.
The outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a group seeking independence from the central government, claimed responsibility for the attack. This incident reflects the group’s continued campaign against Pakistani security forces in the resource-rich but troubled Balochistan region, where ethnic Baloch residents have long accused the central government of discrimination—a charge Islamabad denies.
A military statement vowed that “sanitization operations in the area would continue and perpetrators of this heinous and cowardly act will be brought to justice.” The province, Pakistan’s largest yet least populated, has been a hotspot for separatist activities, and security forces are intensifying efforts to restore order.
The attack comes on the heels of another recent incident of violence in the region. Last week, rebels attacked a train and took approximately 400 people hostage. The standoff resulted in 26 deaths before security forces launched an operation that killed all 33 attackers, bringing the crisis to an end. This latest bombing underscores the persistent security challenges in Balochistan, prompting a robust response from authorities to pursue the perpetrators and ensure stability.
New Delhi, India – The Delhi government has rolled out an extensive campaign aimed at curbing air pollution and enhancing air quality across the national capital. Spearheaded by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the initiative focuses on transforming Delhi into a cleaner and healthier city through targeted measures such as making the entire Ring Road dust-free, planting trees along roads and dividers, and alleviating traffic congestion.
CM Rekha Gupta, in a statement released on March 16, 2025, emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing Delhi’s long-standing air pollution crisis. “Making Delhi clean and pollution-free is the top priority of our government,” she declared during a high-level meeting with concerned departments. Following a thorough review of potential solutions, Gupta directed all relevant agencies to take immediate and effective action to tackle the city’s air quality challenges.
Key components of the campaign include the deployment of mechanized sweeping and water sprinkling along the Ring Road to minimize dust, a major contributor to particulate matter in the air. Additionally, the government has initiated a large-scale tree plantation drive along roads, central verges, and dividers, aiming to increase green cover and act as a natural barrier against pollutants. To address traffic congestion—a significant source of vehicular emissions—the campaign incorporates an intelligent traffic management system targeting 250 major congestion points across the city.
The Delhi government is also collaborating with the central government, various agencies, and the public to ensure the success of these pollution control measures. A 24-hour air quality monitoring system has been established to provide real-time data and enable swift responses to rising pollution levels. Furthermore, the campaign promotes the use of public transport and electric vehicles to reduce emissions, alongside stricter enforcement of dust control norms at construction sites. This initiative comes in the wake of recent reports highlighting Delhi’s severe air quality issues, with the city recording an average PM2.5 level of 159 μg/m³ during the winter of 2024-25, making it the most polluted city in India, according to a Business Standard report. The campaign aligns with the government’s broader year-round plan to combat air and water pollution, as outlined by CM Gupta in February 2025.
While the measures have been welcomed by environmentalists, the success of the campaign will depend on consistent implementation, inter-agency coordination, and public participation. The Delhi government has urged residents to support the initiative by adhering to traffic rules, using public transport, and avoiding activities that contribute to pollution.
