Notes:
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced ‘Operation Indravati’ on microblogging site X to evacuate stranded Indians from violence-hit Haiti to the Dominican Republic. 12 citizens were safely relocated. Around 75 to 90 Indians reside in Haiti, with 60 registering for repatriation. India lacks a diplomatic mission in Haiti, handling affairs through its mission in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the neighboring country.

Notes:
New Zealand bans disposable e-cigarettes and vapes following the repeal of a law targeting tobacco smoking. The government imposes higher fines, up to NZ$100,000 for retailers and NZ$1,000 for individuals, for selling to minors under 18. This move reflects efforts to curb underage vaping and maintain public health standards.

Notes:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history by being the first non-Bhutanese to be honored with Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’. During his two-day state visit to Thimphu, he received the prestigious award from Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. This lifetime achievement award is the apex of Bhutan’s honor system, with only four individuals, including Modi, having received it since its establishment.

Notes:
INS Tir and INS Sujata join India Mozambique Tanzania (IMT) Tri Lateral Exercise, March 21-29, 2024. IMT TRILAT began in Oct 22 with INS Tarkash. The current edition’s harbour phase (Mar 21-24) involves joint training in Damage Control, Fire Fighting, Visit Board Search and Seizure, Medical Lectures, and more in Zanzibar and Maputo. The sea phase focuses on countering threats, maneuvers, firing exercises, and joint EEZ surveillance. Joint debrief at Nacala concludes the exercise.

Notes:
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology recently notified the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit under IT Rules of 2021. Established in 2019, its objective is to deter creators of fake news. It allows easy reporting of suspicious information regarding the Government of India. The FCU counters misinformation on government policies, initiatives, and schemes either proactively or via complaints. It monitors, detects, and corrects disinformation campaigns promptly.