Tue Mar 18 01:45:22 UTC 2025: **India News: Communal Violence Erupts in Nagpur, Trade Deficit Narrows**

NAGPUR, INDIA – March 18, 2025 – Communal tensions escalated into violence in Nagpur on Monday following protests by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. Stone-pelting and arson were reported in Ganeshpeth, Mahal, and Gandhibagh areas after rumors spread of a holy book being burned. Police dispersed the agitating crowds.

NEW DELHI, INDIA – March 18, 2025 – India’s trade deficit with the U.S. is showing improvement. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal stated that India and the U.S. are actively engaged in discussions to boost bilateral trade, despite President Donald Trump’s planned reciprocal tariffs. Meanwhile, India’s overall goods trade deficit fell to a 42-month low of $14.05 billion in February 2025, due to decreased imports of gold, silver, and crude oil.

**Other National News:**

* **Railways’ Financial Health Improves:** Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a significant increase in the railway budget and stated that the sector is financially self-sufficient.
* **Gangster Acquitted:** Gangster Chhota Rajan was acquitted in the 2011 murder of Iqbal Kaskar’s driver/bodyguard.
* **Air India Under Scrutiny:** Air India received a show-cause notice from the DGCA after an elderly passenger suffered brain injuries due to a wheelchair delay at Delhi airport.

**International News:**

* **Possible Xi Jinping Visit:** U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Chinese President Xi Jinping may visit the U.S. soon for talks amidst rising economic tensions.
* **Federal Reserve Appointment:** President Trump nominated Michelle Bowman to oversee the Federal Reserve’s financial regulatory efforts, replacing Michael Barr.
* **Bangladesh Rejects Allegations:** Bangladesh’s interim government refuted claims of minority persecution made by U.S. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard.

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