January 30, 2026

Palau Senate Blocks US Deportees Deal Amid Rising Local Opposition

Palau's senate voted against a Trump administration deal to resettle up to 75 deportees from the US. The deal now awaits a public referendum and final decision by President Surangel Whipps Jr. The move has sparked debate over Palau's capacity and cultural impact.

January 30, 2026

Smithsonian to Return Three Historic Indian Sculptures After Provenance Review

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art will return three ancient South Indian bronze sculptures to India. Provenance research showed these sacred temple bronzes were illegally removed. One sculpture, Nataraja, will stay as a long-term loan at the museum. The move is a major step in restoring India’s cultural heritage.

January 30, 2026

Pakistan-Bangladesh Resume Direct Flights After 14 Years, Boosting Connectivity

Pakistan and Bangladesh restarted direct flights after 14 years with Biman Bangladesh Airlines' inaugural Dhaka-Karachi flight. This marks a major step to improve ties and ease travel for people and trade.

January 30, 2026

Guwahati Refinery Supplies 19,000 Tonnes Smokeless Fuel to Indian Army in Operation Sindoor

Guwahati Refinery supplied 19,000 metric tonnes of special smokeless fuel to the Indian Army during Operation Sindoor. This low-sulphur, low-aromatic fuel helps soldiers stay warm in extreme cold. The fuel was sent to key border areas like Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Ladakh, marking a proud moment for the refinery.

January 30, 2026

Venezuela's Oil Towns Look to Trump’s $100bn Plan for Revival

Once prosperous, Venezuela's oil towns around Lake Maracaibo now face decay and hardship. They hope US firms will invest $100bn to rebuild the oil sector after years of decline and sanctions.