From January to February of this year, three new entities named Blackford, Black Pearl, and Vertex have emerged as significant suppliers of Russian crude to India’s private and state-owned processors. According to unnamed traders and refinery executives, these companies have made a substantial impact, although they are expected to be temporary solutions, lasting months but not years.

In his most significant trial since assuming office as President of the Maldives last year, Mohamed Muizzu emerged victorious in Sunday’s parliamentary elections, with the predominant ruling party, the People’s National Congress (PNC), set to secure a “super majority” in the People’s Majlis. The result may be interpreted by numerous observers as a twofold blow to India, as it frees Muizzu, who ascended to power advocating for an India Out stance, from opposition scrutiny.

The quest for lucrative employment opportunities faces a hurdle this placement season at the esteemed Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). As companies reduce their hiring and provide reduced salary packages, students towards the end of the line are receiving offers with annual packages below Rs 10 lakh. Companies that would select several students are now choosing only one or two at most, prompting colleges to broaden their outreach.