Tue Apr 22 01:32:47 UTC 2025: ## India Welcomes Progress on US Trade Deal Amidst Protests and Political Tensions

**New Delhi, April 22, 2025** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on Monday, hailing “significant progress” in negotiations for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The two leaders formally announced the finalization of the Terms of Reference for the negotiations, with further talks scheduled for this week in Washington. However, this positive development is overshadowed by protests from the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), which called for the burning of effigies of Prime Minister Modi, President Trump, and Vice President Vance, protesting alleged U.S. pressure for unfair trade terms.

Meanwhile, the death of Pope Francis at age 88 was announced, following a stroke and heart failure. Closer to home, West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose remains in stable condition after being admitted to hospital with chest congestion. Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate two new train services in Bihar on April 24th.

The political landscape remains turbulent. The BJP accused Rahul Gandhi of treason over his recent comments in the U.S. Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi criticized BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for his remarks targeting Muslim commissioners. In other news, 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks accused Tahawwur Hussain Rana is seeking court permission to contact his family. India’s core sector growth reached 3.8% in March, driven by increased electricity demand due to early summer heat. Finally, Gujarat Titans secured a resounding victory over Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL.

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