1. Entire Pakistan border to be covered with electronic surveillance system in 4 years: Shah
2. Security eye on Bangladesh as Yunus brings China, Pakistan too close for comfort
3. PM Modi plans Saudi Arabia trip in Apr eyeing bigger Saudi FDI & widening strategic ties
4. Crown Prince of Dubai’s visit to India to bolster India-UAE ties
5. India Navigates US Trade Tariffs, Slams China’s Unfair Trade Practices

What Else

1. Tripura: Suspicious Drone Found Near India-Bangladesh Border Raises Security Concerns
2. Congress’s key meet in Ahmedabad tomorrow, Priyanka Gandhi may get bigger role
3. U.S. Supreme Court denies Tahawwur Rana’s application seeking stay on extradition to India
4. Bangladesh Army chief leaves for Russia, Croatia on state visit
5. Pakistan plans to expel 3 million Afghans from the country
6. Trump’s 50% tariff threat and one-day deadline to China to undo reciprocal move
7. In maiden call with Dar, Rubio agrees to resolve issue of US weapons left in Afghanistan
8. Pakistan: Over 6,500 Indian Sikh pilgrims granted visas for Baisakhi festival
9. Demonstrations across Bangladesh, including Dhaka: ‘Show Israel the red card’
10. Nepal: Teachers across Nepal stage mass protest in Kathmandu for Education Bill
11. Nepal: Top courts of Nepal and India sign MoU to strengthen judicial cooperation

Security eye on Bangladesh as Yunus brings China, Pakistan too close for comfort

• Bangladesh chief adviser Muhammad Yunus has cleared the decks for the Chinese to come within 200km of Calcutta and the Pakistanis within 120km of Hasimara Air Force station, close to the Chicken’s Neck and the Sikkim-Bhutan-Tibet trijunction.
• The Big Picture: Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has paved the way for China to expand its influence in the region, with plans to develop the Mongla port in Khulna division, just 180km from Kolkata.
• This move is likely to jeopardize India’s operational rights at the port.
• Between the Lines: Yunus’s recent visit to Beijing resulted in a $400 million investment for the port’s modernization and expansion.
• Additionally, Bangladesh and China have agreed to strengthen maritime cooperation, potentially impacting regional geopolitics.
• The development of a $350 million Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Chittagong further solidifies China’s presence.
• China will participate in the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project, a move that was initially desired by India due to its proximity to the Chicken’s Neck, a strategic location.
• Of Note: India’s concerns about China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean have been raised, with strategic affairs experts questioning New Delhi’s decision to engage with Yunus.
• Bangladesh is also strengthening ties with Pakistan, with plans for joint military exercises and high-level diplomatic visits.
• Pakistani JF-17 fighter jets may be stationed at Lalmonirhat airport, just 120km from India’s Hasimara airbase.
• Yunus has also had a phone conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and is poised to visit Islamabad. (more)

Entire Pakistan border to be covered with electronic surveillance system in four years: Shah

• The Big Picture: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says 2 electronic surveillance systems are being tested along the Jammu border to detect infiltrators and tunnels.
• The technology may be deployed along the entire Pakistan border in 4 years.
• Between the Lines: The systems are being tested to curb terrorism in J&K.
• Over 26 technology-related initiatives are being tested, including anti-drone and tunnel identification technology.
• Of Note: Shah visited BSF personnel and families of those killed in terrorist attacks, and inaugurated new border facilities, including women’s barracks and an observation tower, built at a cost of ₹47.22 crore.
• He also handed over appointment letters to 9 nominees on compassionate grounds and paid respects to the family of a Deputy Manager killed in a terrorist attack. (more)

PM Modi plans Saudi Arabia trip in Apr eyeing bigger Saudi FDI & widening strategic ties

• The Big Picture: PM Modi will visit Saudi Arabia later this month to boost Saudi investments and strategic ties, meeting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss key agreements and enhance trade and defense cooperation.
• Between the Lines: Talks will cover the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, the Israel-Hamas crisis, Red Sea tensions, and strengthening bilateral trade and defense ties.
• Both nations aim to take forward agreements finalized during the crown prince’s 2023 visit to India.
• Of Note: The two have strong economic ties, with Saudi Arabia latter being India’s 5^th-largest trade partner and India being Saudi Arabia’s 2^nd-largest trade partner.
• The Indian community in Saudi Arabia, numbering around 2.7 million, also strengthens bilateral relations (more)

Crown Prince of Dubai’s visit to India to bolster India-UAE ties

• The Big Picture: The Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, is visiting India from Apr 8 to 9, 2025, to strengthen India-UAE ties.
• He will meet with PM Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss ways to bolster cooperation across multiple sectors.
• Between the Lines: The visit aims to add new momentum to the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
• The Crown Prince will also participate in a business roundtable in Mumbai to explore opportunities for increased trade and investment.
• Of Note: This is the Crown Prince’s first official visit to India in his capacity as Crown Prince of Dubai.
• The visit follows PM Modi’s landmark visit to the UAE in 2015, which significantly boosted bilateral engagement.
• The strong people-to-people ties between India and the UAE are underpinned by the large Indian diaspora in the Emirates, estimated at 4.3 million. (more)

India Navigates US Trade Tariffs, Slams China’s Unfair Trade Practices

• India’s approach to US trade tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump differs from other nations.
• While countries like China and Canada have retaliated with tit-for-tat tariffs, India has chosen not to escalate tensions.

Key Developments

• No Retaliation: India won’t impose new tariffs on US goods or reduce existing ones.
• Trade Talks: Both nations are accelerating talks to finalize a “win-win” trade deal by autumn 2025.
• Advantageous Position: India initiated a mega trade pact with the US before Trump’s tariff announcement.
• Potential Benefits for India: The ongoing US-China trade war could benefit India in sectors like Gems and Jewelry; Textiles; Leather; Pharmaceuticals; IT Services (more)

Concerns Over China’s Trade Practices

• Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal accused China of unfair trade practices, citing distorted pricing and opaque subsidies.
• India’s trade deficit with China soared by 25 times during the UPA’s tenure, harming local manufacturing sectors.
• Global Context: The US-China trade war has escalated, with the US imposing tariffs on Chinese goods and China retaliating with its tariffs.
• This has led to a global stock market downturn, with Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index plummeting 13.2%. (more)

Tripura: Suspicious Drone Found Near India-Bangladesh Border Raises Security Concerns

• Tensions have risen along the India-Bangladesh border after a suspected drone was recovered from a paddy field near Ballamukha in S Tripura’s Belonia subdivision.
• The drone was found just 300 m from the international barbed-wire fence, sparking national security concerns.

Key Facts:

• Drone Recovery: The drone was discovered on Mon morning, prompting villagers to alert authorities due to fears of its potential danger.
• Investigation: Tripura Police retrieved the drone and sent it for forensic analysis, with preliminary findings suggesting it may have crossed from Bangladesh into Indian territory.
• Security Concerns: Authorities are investigating the drone’s purpose and origin, considering possibilities of smuggling or espionage.
• Regional Context: This incident comes amid reports of Bangladesh deploying Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones near its border with India, specifically in West Bengal.
• India has heightened surveillance and is monitoring the situation closely, amid concerns about increased terrorist activities in the region (more)

Congress’s key meet in Ahmedabad tomorrow, Priyanka Gandhi may get bigger role

The Congress party is set to hold a crucial meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Tue, followed by a 2-day national convention in Ahmedabad. Key developments include:

Key Highlights

• Priyanka Gandhi’s Role: The party leadership is considering a more defined and prominent role for Priyanka Gandhi ahead of six major state elections.
• Decentralization: The convention will focus on decentralizing organizational power and strengthening district-level Congress committees.
• Resolutions: The party is expected to pass key resolutions on political, economic, and social matters, including opposition to the Waqf Bill.
• Gujarat Elections: The convention aims to chart a roadmap to reclaim political ground in Gujarat by 2027.

The convention holds historic significance, marking the 100^th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi becoming Congress president. Over 2,000 party leaders and workers will participate. (more)

U.S. Supreme Court denies Tahawwur Rana’s application seeking stay on extradition to India

• The Big Picture: The US Supreme Court has denied Tahawwur Rana’s application to stay his extradition to India.
• Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistan origin, is accused of involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.
• Between the Lines: Rana’s application was denied by Associate Justice Elena Kagan and later by the full Court. He is currently lodged in a detention center in Los Angeles.
• Of Note: Rana’s extradition to India is now likely to proceed.
• On Mon, a notice on the Supreme Court website said, “Application denied by the Court.” make short news as per asked (more)

[Neighborhood]

Bangladesh Army chief leaves for Russia, Croatia on state visit

• Bangladesh’s Chief of Army Staff, Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman, has embarked on an official visit to Russia and Croatia, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and these nations.
• Key Highlights of the Visit
• Meetings with High-Ranking Officials: Gene Zaman will hold courtesy meetings with senior military and civilian officials in both countries.
• Military Installations and Arms Manufacturing Facilities: He is expected to visit military installations and arms manufacturing facilities to explore potential opportunities for collaboration.
• Strengthening Bilateral Ties: The visit aims to enhance cooperation between Bangladesh and the visited nations, building on existing diplomatic relations.
• General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s Background: As the 18^th Chief of Army Staff, Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman has played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s recent political landscape, including the transition to a caretaker govt in Aug 2024. (more)

Pakistan plans to expel 3 million Afghans from the country

• The Big Picture: Pakistan plans to deport 3 million Afghans, sparking criticism from human rights groups, the Taliban government, and the UN.
• Between the Lines: Over 813,300 Afghans have already been repatriated, with 800,000 Afghan Citizen Cards canceled.
• The move is part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal residents.
• Of Note: The Pakistani govt claims the deportations are in line with international law, while critics argue it’s collective punishment against Afghans.

Trump’s 50% tariff threat and one-day deadline to China to undo reciprocal move

• US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose an additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports, on top of the existing 34% levy, unless China reverses its reciprocal tariffs on US goods.
• China has vowed not to be intimidated by what it calls “tariff blackmail,” asserting that US-imposed tariffs are unfounded.

Key Developments

• Tariff Escalation: Trump’s ultimatum gives China one day to undo its 34% reciprocal tariffs on US imports, warning that the additional 50% tariff will take effect on Apr 9 if the deadline isn’t met.
• China’s Response: China’s Finance Ministry announced a tit-for-tat move, slapping an additional 34% tariff on all US goods from Apr 10.
• Export Controls: China has also imposed export controls on medium and heavy rare earths, including Samarium, Gadolinium, Terbium, Dysprosium, Lutetium, Scandium, and Yttrium, effective from Apr 4.

Market Impact:

• Global Stock Market Meltdown: The S&P 500 has dropped 20% from its peak, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average has fallen over 17% below its highest level.
• Chinese Stocks: The Hang Seng Tech Index plummeted 27% in a month, with the yuan slipping to its lowest since Jan. (more)

In maiden call with Dar, Rubio agreed to resolve issue of US weapons left in Afghanistan

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio have agreed to work together to resolve the issue of US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan after the withdrawal of US forces.

The equipment, valued at $7 billion, was seized by the Taliban in 2021.

Key Discussion Points

• Bilateral Relations: Dar and Rubio discussed strengthening cooperation in areas like trade, investment, and counter-terrorism.
• Regional Security: They emphasized the importance of joint efforts to combat terrorism, with Rubio appreciating Pakistan’s past efforts in fighting terrorism.
• Economic Cooperation: The two leaders explored opportunities for collaboration in sectors like critical minerals, with Rubio stating that economic cooperation would be a hallmark of future relations.
• Tariffs: The discussion comes after the US imposed a 29% tariff on imports from Pakistan, which will take effect on Apr 9.

Background: Pakistan has faced increased terrorist attacks since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021, with a 42% surge in Jan 2025 compared to the previous month. (more)

Pakistan: Over 6,500 Indian Sikh pilgrims granted visas for Baisakhi festival

• Pakistan has issued 6,500 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims for the Baisakhi festival, allowing them to participate in the annual celebration from Apr 10-19.
• The festival marks the beginning of the Sikh New Year and spiritual renewal.
• Pilgrims will visit significant sites like Gurdwara Panja Sahib (Revered for a rock with Guru Nanak’s handprint); Gurdwara Nankana Sahib (Birthplace of Guru Nanak); and Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib.
• This move reflects Pakistan’s efforts to foster harmony and promote cultural understanding, as stated by the Pakistani chargé d’affaires in New Delhi.
• The visas are issued under the 1974 Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines.
• However, another report suggests only 2,843 visas were issued, allowing pilgrims to participate from Apr 13-22. (more)

Demonstrations across Bangladesh, including Dhaka: ‘Show Israel the red card’

Students across Bangladesh are staging protests and rallies against Israeli forces’ attacks on Gaza, with demonstrations prominent at universities. Here’s a summary of the key events:

Protests in Dhaka:

• Students from various departments of the University of Dhaka, schools, and colleges gathered for a protest rally in front of the Raju Sculpture and Aparajeyo Bangla.
• Placards bore messages like “Boycott Trump, Save Palestine” and “Boycott USA”.
• Students from Government Science College and Begum Badrunnesa Government Women’s College also held protests.
• Protests in Other Cities
• In Narayanganj, students and the general public organized protests and road blockades.
• In Khulna, students of Khulna University boycotted classes and examinations for a protest rally and assembly titled “March for Palestine”.
• In Chandpur, students from various educational institutions held a protest procession.
• Demands and Slogans
• Students demanded an end to the genocide in Palestine and the establishment of a free Palestine.
• Slogans included “Free Free Palestine”, “Boycott Israel”, and “Break and Crush the Black Hand of Israel”.
• Some students called for a complete ban on Israeli products in Bangladesh. (more)
• The US embassy in Dhaka has alerted its citizens due to demonstrations launched in protest of Israeli strikes on Gaza of Palestine. (more)

Nepal: Teachers across Nepal stage mass protest in Kathmandu for Education Bill

Thousands of teachers in Nepal are protesting in Kathmandu, demanding the immediate passage of the long-pending School Education Bill.

The Nepal Teachers’ Federation organized the demonstration, with educators rallying from various parts of the city, converging at Maitighar before marching towards Baneshwar.

They’re carrying placards with slogans like “Respect the teaching profession” and “Enact the education act now”.

Key Demands

• Enactment of the School Education Act: Teachers are pushing for a new law that addresses critical challenges in Nepal’s education system, including standardization of teaching policies, fair salary structures, and educators’ rights.
• Job Security and Better Working Conditions: Educators are seeking improved working conditions, job security, and a well-defined education policy to ensure quality education.
• Autonomy from Local Authorities: Teachers are resisting being placed under local authorities’ jurisdiction, fearing potential bias based on political leanings.
• Govt Response: The govt has acknowledged the teachers’ concerns and is working on finalizing the School Education Act.
• Education Minister Devendra Poudel has urged teachers to remain patient, but protesters remain skeptical due to previous delays and broken commitments.

Potential Consequences: If the govt fails to address the teachers’ demands, the Nepal Teachers’ Federation has warned of a possible nationwide strike, which could disrupt the education system across the country (more)

Nepal: Top courts of Nepal and India sign MoU to strengthen judicial cooperation

The Supreme Courts of Nepal and India have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen judicial cooperation between the two countries.

The agreement, signed by Chief Justice of Nepal Prakash Man Singh Raut and Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, aims to:

• Promote Mutual Exchange: Share information on the latest developments in law and justice, and facilitate interaction among judges and officials through exchange visits, training, and academic programs.
• Leverage Technology: Share knowledge on technology used in their respective courts to clear backlogs, expedite procedures, and improve services.
• Establish Joint Working Group: Form a joint working group to plan and implement strategies for enhanced judicial cooperation.

This historic agreement highlights the cordial and friendly relations between Nepal and India, with a focus on regional unity and shared constitutional values. (more)