Recent research sheds light on Antarctica's Thwaites Glacier, ominously dubbed the 'Doomsday Glacier' for its potential to contribute to rising sea levels. Contrary to previous assumptions, ice loss in the glacier has been ongoing since the 1940s, with El Niño events exacerbating the melting process. The interplay between natural climate variability and human-induced climate change underscores the urgency of addressing greenhouse gas emissions. Efforts to monitor Thwaites Glacier's behavior through satellite observations, field expeditions, and modeling techniques are crucial for understanding its impacts on global sea levels and ecosystems.

India delivered a robust response to Pakistan's mention of Jammu and Kashmir at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session. First Secretary Anupama Singh of India's Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva exercised India's Right of Reply, expressing regret over Turkiye's remarks and firmly rejecting Pakistan's comments. India criticized Pakistan's involvement in terrorism and economic challenges, contrasting it with India's pluralistic ethos. Furthermore, India emphasized Jammu and Kashmir's integral part of India and condemned Pakistan's systemic persecution of minorities, citing the example of the persecution of Christian communities in Pakistan.

The 37th African Union Summit, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, concluded on February 18, 2024, bringing together heads of states and governments from member countries to deliberate on crucial issues including education, climate, and economy. African nations, despite contributing minimally to the global climate crisis, bear disproportionate impacts and face challenges in accessing finance for mitigation efforts. The summit witnessed discussions on reforming the global financial system to better address the needs of developing countries, leading to the launch of the Africa Club aimed at aligning Africa's financial influence with sustainable development goals. Additionally, leaders reiterated the proposal for an African Monetary Union and outlined priorities for addressing global financial architecture imbalances. Proposals put forth by Ghana's President emphasized empowering African financial institutions, signaling Africa's growing voice in global initiatives. The summit highlighted the continent's increased participation in global forums, exemplified by the African Union's full membership status in the G20, signaling a shift towards addressing economic frameworks that better serve African interests.

Recent confirmations by the International Astronomical Union's Minor Planet Center have unveiled three new moons within our solar system, adding to the celestial intrigue surrounding Uranus and Neptune. These moons, identified through ground-based telescopic observations, pose unique challenges due to their diminutive size and distant orbits. Uranus' new moon, designated as S/2023 U1, joins the planet's ensemble with its small 5-mile diameter, while Neptune welcomes two new satellites, S/2002 N5 and S/2021 N1, ranging from 8.7 to 14.3 miles in diameter. Employing innovative image stacking techniques, astronomers were able to distinguish these faint objects against the cosmic backdrop, underscoring the advancing capabilities of ground-based telescopes. These discoveries not only expand our understanding of the solar system's dynamics but also highlight the ongoing exploration facilitated by technological advancements in astronomical observation.

NATO has initiated its largest military exercise in Europe, dubbed Steadfast Defender 2024, signaling a stance of unity against Russia, particularly following its incursion into Ukraine. The exercise, conducted in two phases, focuses on maritime reinforcement across the Atlantic and Arctic in the first phase, followed by multi-domain exercises across Europe in the second phase. With over 90,000 troops from 31 NATO allies participating, the exercise incorporates land, air, sea, cyber, and space operations to bolster civil-military cooperation. Beyond its military significance, Steadfast Defender 2024 serves as a demonstration of NATO's collective military strength and commitment to member security, while also aiming to deter further Russian aggression in Ukraine.

More than 3,000 passengers and crew members find themselves stranded in Mauritius waters after authorities in the Indian Ocean island nation prevented a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, the Norwegian Dawn, from docking due to health concerns. The decision came after some passengers reported mild symptoms of a stomach-related illness during the ship's recent trip to South Africa. While the specific nature of the health risk was not disclosed, the Mauritius port authority took samples from isolated passengers aboard the vessel. Collaboration between the ship's management and Mauritian authorities ensued to ensure necessary precautions were in place. The delay in docking has significant implications, impacting both passengers' travel plans and Mauritius' tourism-dependent economy.

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has released a report highlighting significant disruptions in global shipping routes, particularly focusing on the Red Sea, Black Sea, and Panama Canal. Maritime transport, serving as the cornerstone of international trade, is facing unprecedented challenges due to escalating attacks by Houthi militants in the Red Sea, geopolitical conflicts affecting the Black Sea, and decreasing water levels in the Panama Canal. These disruptions have led to reduced transits through key canals, rerouting of vessels, increased trade expenses, and environmental concerns. Developing countries are especially vulnerable to these disruptions, necessitating swift adaptation and international cooperation to ensure sustainable trade solutions.

Amidst global concerns over food security, the G-33 alliance, consisting of diverse nations, emphasizes the urgent need for a lasting solution to the conflict between public stockholding and international trade regulations. Developing nations heavily reliant on stockholding face penalties due to limitations imposed by WTO agreements. Balancing domestic agricultural needs with trade obligations is further complicated by climate change and market volatility. The G-33 calls for a permanent WTO framework accommodating developing countries' concerns, ensuring flexibility in implementing stockholding programs without reprisal. Their advocacy extends beyond economics, emphasizing the impact on millions, particularly in vulnerable regions. Discussions prioritize finding consensus, highlighting the moral imperative to prioritize human welfare in global trade policies.

Armenia's Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, announced the freezing of Armenia's participation in the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), citing the organization's failure to fulfill its objectives, particularly in 2021 and 2022. Pashinyan also accused Azerbaijan of not adhering to principles necessary for a long-term peace treaty and suggested preparations for another attack. In response, Azerbaijan rejected the allegations, accusing Pashinyan of disrupting regional stability. Despite recent discussions between Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev aimed at advancing towards a peace treaty, challenges persist, primarily concerning territorial disputes and control of ethnic enclaves.

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) marked International Mother Language Day with the "Akshar | Shabd | Bhasha" exhibition, organized by the Kalanidhi Division and Academic Unit. Running until 29th February 2024, the exhibition showcases the linguistic richness of India, emphasizing the importance of mother languages and efforts to preserve them. Featuring curated quotes in 22 scheduled languages at Darshanam II gallery and immersive experiences in Darshanam I and corridors, the exhibition highlights cultural heritage. Inaugurated by dignitaries including Ms. Lily Pandeya and Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, the event underscores UNESCO's mission to promote linguistic diversity. Additionally, IGNCA's Academic Unit, established in 2017, continues its mandate to document, preserve, and disseminate Indian Arts and Cultural Heritage through expanded course offerings.

The MakhaBucha ceremony, a significant event for Buddhists in Thailand, was conducted with grace by esteemed monks, including Somdet, at a venue where holy relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples, brought from India, are enshrined. MakhaBucha Day, celebrated on the full moon day of the third lunar month, marks Lord Buddha's teachings to his disciples. This festival, observed in countries like Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, signifies the beginning of the Buddhist calendar. Visitors pay homage to the Holy Relics during a 26-day exposition in Thailand. Additionally, a cultural talk on "Thai India Friendship since Buddha till now" by Dr. Supachai Veeraphuchong was organized at the Sanam Luang pavilion.

The completion of the Shahpur Kandi Barrage, situated at the Punjab-Jammu and Kashmir border, marks a significant milestone in India's water resource management. This project, which has faced decades of challenges, aims to enhance agricultural productivity and aligns with the provisions of the Indus Water Treaty. Under the Modi government, with the intervention of Union MoS Dr Jitendra Singh, the project resumed in 2018, overcoming past hurdles. India's decision to halt the flow of water into Pakistan in 2019 reflects a shift in policy priorities, focusing on domestic needs. The project's completion signifies a reevaluation of water utilization strategies and highlights India's commitment to prioritize its own development agenda while adhering to international agreements.

At the recent Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, the eight Nordic-Baltic countries participated as representatives of the NB8, emphasizing the critical need for trust, dialogue, and cooperation amidst global turmoil and conflicts. Highlighting shared values of democracy, human rights, and multilateralism, the Nordic-Baltic nations showcased their deepening collaboration with India across various fields such as innovation, green transition, and maritime affairs. With geopolitical interests intertwined, the delegation underscored the importance of collective efforts to uphold international law and address security threats, particularly in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The visit to India marks a milestone in diplomatic engagement, signaling a commitment to advancing mutual interests and fostering peace and stability on a global scale.

In an extraordinary turn of events, the arid landscape of Badwater Basin, nestled within Death Valley, has undergone a remarkable transformation, defying its reputation as one of North America's driest regions. Following the onslaught of Hurricane Hilary in August 2023, a temporary lake, later named Manly Lake, emerged in the parched salt flats. Surprisingly, this ephemeral water body persisted through fall and winter, receiving reinforcement from a powerful atmospheric river in February 2024. Meticulous satellite documentation by NASA illustrates the basin's evolution before and after extreme weather events, highlighting the drastic changes. The disruption of Badwater Basin's traditional evaporation pattern, caused by increased precipitation over the past six months, further contributed to the formation and sustenance of Manly Lake. Despite initial expectations of rapid dissipation, the lake endured for an unprecedented duration, captivating observers with its unique aesthetic appeal. Park officials remain uncertain about the lake's future, speculating on its potential persistence until late March. This rare occurrence underscores the dynamic nature of Earth's landscapes and the profound impact of climatic variability.

A recent study delves into Earth's early history, focusing on ancient geological formations dating back around 3.5 billion years ago. Led by a research team, the study examines the Singhbhum Craton in India alongside similar regions in South Africa and Australia. Through field-based studies and uranium-lead radiometric-age dating, the team uncovered evidence of common explosive-style volcanic eruptions during this period, providing valuable insights into early Earth processes. The findings not only enhance our understanding of Earth's formative years and tectonic activities during the Archaean era but also contribute to hypothesizing early habitable conditions and the emergence of life on Earth. The research underscores the importance of further exploration into the geological history of ancient cratons worldwide to construct a comprehensive model of Archaean geological processes.

In line with India's G20 presidency priorities, the World Health Organization (WHO) has inaugurated the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH). This virtual launch event saw the participation of prominent figures such as Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and India’s UN representative, Arindam Bagchi. The GIDH aims to foster international collaboration in digital health by providing a platform for sharing knowledge and digital products among nations. Key components of the initiative include a Country Needs Tracker, a Country Resource Portal, a Transformation Toolbox, and a Knowledge Exchange platform. Through GIDH, the WHO intends to address specific digital health needs, mitigate fragmentation, and ensure interoperability in health systems globally. The initiative underscores the growing importance of digital solutions in healthcare delivery and marks a significant milestone in global health cooperation.

An Indian delegation, led by Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, is set to depart for London with the aim of sealing a free trade agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom before the general elections. The visit gains importance as the announcement of election dates is imminent, triggering the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) recently reviewed the progress of the India-UK FTA talks, underscoring the high-level attention to the negotiations. The FTA negotiations, initiated in January 2022, cover various sectors including goods, services, investments, and intellectual property rights. Both sides have specific demands, with Indian industries seeking greater access in the UK market for skilled professionals and goods, while the UK aims for reduced import duties on specific items and expanded opportunities for its services in Indian markets. Bilateral trade between India and the UK has shown growth, reaching $20.36 billion in 2022-23, highlighting the increasing economic ties between the two nations.

The ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue, commencing from February 21 to February 23 in New Delhi, presents a crucial forum for discussions on global geopolitics and geoeconomics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the conference, with Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis attending as the chief guest. Organized by the Observer Research Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, the Dialogue convenes stakeholders from diverse backgrounds including politics, business, media, and civil society. With the theme "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create," the conference will delve into six thematic pillars covering various aspects of contemporary global challenges. Expecting participation from over 2,500 delegates representing approximately 115 countries, the event will also be widely broadcasted on digital platforms, aiming to engage millions worldwide.

A recent report by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) reveals concerning findings about the progress of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Asia-Pacific region. Despite global commitments, none of the 17 SDGs are on track in the region, with projections indicating a delay of 32 years in their attainment, extending until 2062. Only 11% of measurable SDG targets are currently on track, and progress toward SDG 13 (Climate Action) is notably lagging. Data availability poses a significant challenge, with two-thirds of targets currently not measurable. Urgent action is needed to address these setbacks and accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs in the Asia-Pacific region.

India has made a significant contribution of 1 million US Dollars to the Poverty and Hunger Alleviation Fund established by India, Brazil, and South Africa (IBSA). The cheque was handed over by India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, to the Director of the UN Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC), Dima Al-Khatib. The IBSA Fund, operational since 2006, aims to identify replicable and scalable projects to alleviate poverty and hunger in the Global South. Ambassador Kamboj reiterated India's commitment to supporting the fund, highlighting its positive impact on millions of lives and its alignment with the principles of South-South cooperation. This contribution underscores India's dedication to global development, particularly during its G20 Presidency, which prioritizes the empowerment and well-being of people worldwide.

The 'INDUS-X' summit, initiated in June 2023, marks a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts between India and the US to advance bilateral defence innovation and collaboration. Organized by iDEX and the US Department of Defence, in collaboration with the US-India Business Council and SIDM, the summit aims to drive strategic technology partnerships and defence industrial cooperation. It features activities and insightful sessions designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among stakeholders from governments, academic institutions, investors, defence start-ups, and industry associations. This summit underscores the growing defence and strategic ties between India and the US, highlighted by key agreements like LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA, which facilitate interoperability, technology sharing, and logistics cooperation.

The European Union has initiated a naval mission, Operation Aspides, with the objective of safeguarding cargo ships navigating the Red Sea from attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. This decision, announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aims to ensure freedom of navigation in the region while strengthening European presence at sea to protect European interests. The mission involves deploying warships and early warning systems across strategic waters, with operational command headquartered in Larissa, Greece. Rules of engagement dictate that Aspides vessels can only retaliate if attacked first, with preemptive strikes prohibited. Houthi attacks, initially targeting Israel-linked ships, have disrupted global trade routes, leading to economic repercussions. Recent incidents include the attack on the Rubymar cargo ship and the downing of a US drone. Maritime security firms like Ambrey are actively responding to such incidents.