🇨🇦 Canada
1. Mark Carney Unveils Election Platform
Prime Minister Mark Carney has released his re-election plan, focusing on tax cuts, major investments in infrastructure and defense, and reducing reliance on the U.S. economy. A key highlight includes boosting military spending to meet NATO’s 2% GDP target by 2030.
2. Immigration Policy Adjustments
Canada aims to admit 500,000 immigrants annually, with India remaining a major source of skilled migrants. However, the government is reducing the intake of international students by 10% in 2025 to manage population pressures.
🇮🇳 India
3. U.S. Vice President Visits India
U.S. Vice President JD Vance is on a four-day visit to India to boost trade and economic cooperation. Meetings with PM Narendra Modi are expected to pave the way for a future bilateral trade deal, aiming to reach $500 billion in trade by 2030.
4. Noida International Airport Inauguration
PM Modi is set to inaugurate Asia’s largest airport in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The new hub is expected to handle 70 million passengers annually by 2040, enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.
5. Murshidabad Violence
Protests broke out in West Bengal over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, resulting in 3 deaths, over 10 injuries, and more than 270 arrests. The government deployed additional forces and suspended internet services to control the unrest.
6. Deadly Heat Wave in India and Pakistan
An intense early heat wave is sweeping through parts of India and Pakistan, with temperatures reaching over 46°C in Rajasthan. At least 19 deaths have been reported so far, and authorities are issuing warnings to safeguard public health.
🇺🇸 United States
7. “The Rally Heard ‘Round the World” in Ohio
Thousands of protesters gathered in Columbus, Ohio, opposing federal policies on immigration and social welfare. The protest has drawn national attention and is being seen as a sign of growing civil unrest ahead of the election season.
8. Ukraine-U.S. Minerals Deal in Progress
Ukraine and the U.S. are moving toward finalizing a strategic minerals agreement, expected by the end of April. The deal aims to strengthen economic and defense ties between the two nations.
🌐 Global & Additional News
9. Canada Alleges Foreign Election Interference
Canada’s intelligence agency has expressed concern over potential interference in its upcoming elections, pointing to India and China as likely actors using artificial intelligence to influence public opinion.
10. North American Cup Cricket Begins
The North American Cup cricket tournament kicked off in the Cayman Islands, with teams from the U.S., Canada, Bermuda, Bahamas, and others. It serves as preparation for the T20 World Cup qualifiers later this year.
11. Plane Crash in Nebraska, USA
A small aircraft crashed into the Platte River near Fremont, Nebraska, killing all three people on board. Investigations are underway to determine the cause.
12. Global Citizen NOW Summit Announced
High-profile activists and celebrities, including Bill Nye and Laverne Cox, are scheduled to speak at the Global Citizen Action Summit in New York on April 30, tackling issues such as poverty, climate change, and education.