Stories from New Delhi · India

The Indian government has officially responded to remarks made by President Donald Trump describing the country as a 'hellhole.' Officials stated that the comments were uninformed and inappropriate. The reaction follows a period of diplomatic tension regarding the characterization of India's domestic conditions. India has decided to decline the American F-35 fighter jet program. The country is instead focusing on developing its own fifth-generation fighter aircraft. There are discussions regarding the potential production of the Su-57 on Indian territory to meet local requirements. The source noted that India's interest in Su-57 technology stems from its need for advanced combat aircraft.

Listed companies in India reported a 14.7% increase in net profit for Q3 FY26, marking the fastest growth in two years. This surge indicates strong corporate resilience and economic momentum within the Indian market. This represents the fastest growth rate recorded in the last two years.

The Indian government now requires Malaysian travelers to submit an electronic e-Arrival card prior to entry. This new travel regulation aims to streamline immigration processes for citizens traveling from Malaysia to India. The requirement is part of updated border management protocols. The measure aims to prevent unauthorized entry into sensitive areas.

The Supreme Court of India has stayed the conviction and life sentence of Amit Jogi in a murder case involving a former NCP leader. This legal development provides temporary relief for the politician while the judicial process continues. The ruling is significant for regional political dynamics in India. The Supreme Court of India has allowed a 30-week pregnancy termination for a minor who survived a rape.

India's economic activity saw an acceleration in April despite supply constraints for crude oil and gas caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. A flash survey conducted by HSBC Holdings Plc confirmed this trend on Thursday. The growth suggests resilience in the Indian market despite regional geopolitical volatility. Gross-central Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection in April exceeded 52,000 crore rupees. State GST collection amounted to more than 61,300 crore rupees. The gross-integrated GST (iGST) collection reached 1,29,232 crore rupees. Additionally, prices for 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders have increased, according to the report.

A judge at the Delhi High Court has recused himself from hearing a contempt petition filed against Arvind Kejriwal. The case involves the circulation of court videos and legal proceedings regarding the former Delhi Chief Minister. This development adds a new layer of legal complexity to the ongoing political scrutiny in India. The hearing will address a lower court's order to acquit Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and three others.

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave forecast for several northern states, including Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Punjab. The extreme weather conditions are expected to impact the quality of life for millions of residents in the region. Authorities are monitoring the situation as temperatures are projected to rise significantly. The weather forecast for the waters of DKI Jakarta and North West Java, valid from April 26, 2006, predicts calm sea conditions with wave heights of 0.1 to 0.5 meters in Jakarta Bay, Subang, and Indramayu. Low wave conditions of 0.5 to 1.25 meters are expected in the Thousand Islands and Cirebon. Coastal tide information for Jakarta is also provided. India's meteorological department has issued a yellow high-temperature warning to surrounding areas, advising tourists to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat.