Oil India Announces Natural Gas Discovery in Andaman Offshore Block
State-owned Oil India Ltd has discovered natural gas in its offshore block in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a potentially significant development for India's energy security. The find was made in the second exploratory well drilled in the AN-OSHP-2018/1 block. While the commercial viability and size of the reserves are still under evaluation, the discovery confirms the presence of hydrocarbons in the Andaman basin, raising hopes for future exploration that could help reduce India's heavy reliance on imported gas.
Babbar Khalsa International Terrorist Extradited to India from UAE
In a major counter-terrorism success, Parminder Singh 'Pindi', a terrorist associated with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), has been extradited from the UAE to India. Pindi, a close aide of foreign-based terrorists Harwinder Singh Rinda and Happy Passia, was wanted for multiple crimes in Punjab, including petrol bomb attacks and extortion. The extradition was the result of a coordinated operation between Punjab Police, central agencies, and UAE authorities, acting on a Red Corner Notice issued at India's request.
Bareilly Cleric Arrested After 'I Love Muhammad' Protest Turns Violent
Cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan and seven others have been arrested and sent to 14-day judicial custody following violent clashes in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. The unrest erupted after a protest called by Khan, supporting the 'I love Muhammad' campaign, was denied permission by authorities. Following Friday prayers, demonstrators clashed with police, who accused Khan of using inflammatory speeches to incite the violence. The controversy began after some groups objected to 'I Love Muhammad' posters being used during religious processions in the state.
India's Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Earns UNESCO Designation
UNESCO has officially designated India's Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve as part of its World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR). Located in the trans-Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh, the high-altitude reserve is known for its fragile ecosystem and unique biodiversity, including the snow leopard. This recognition marks India's 13th site on the prestigious list, highlighting the country's commitment to conserving critical natural habitats and promoting sustainable development in conjunction with local communities.
Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Arrested Under National Security Act in Ladakh
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been arrested in Leh under the National Security Act and moved to a jail in Jodhpur. His detention follows violent protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, which resulted in four deaths and numerous injuries. The administration cited Wangchuk's alleged "provocative speeches" as a reason for the unrest, a claim he denies. The arrest has intensified tensions in the region, which remains under curfew with internet services suspended.
US to Impose 100% Tariff on Imported Branded Pharmaceuticals
US President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on all imported branded or patented pharmaceutical products, effective October 1, 2025. The measure is intended to boost domestic manufacturing. Companies will be exempt if they are actively building production facilities in the United States, defined as having broken ground. The move is expected to significantly impact global pharmaceutical companies, including many in India which is a major drug exporter to the US, leading to a drop in Indian pharma stocks.
AFSPA Extended for Six Months in Parts of Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh
The Union Home Ministry has extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, or AFSPA, for another six months in several areas of Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, effective October 1. The notification declares these regions as 'disturbed areas' due to the prevailing law and order situation. The controversial law, which grants sweeping powers to armed forces, will remain in force across all of Manipur except for 13 police station areas, as well as in nine districts of Nagaland and specific districts of Arunachal.
Pakistani PM and Army Chief Meet US President at White House
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir met with US President Donald Trump at the White House, signaling a significant warming of relations between the two countries. The meeting, which occurred on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, is the first visit by a Pakistani PM to the White House under the Trump administration. The discussions come as the two nations have reportedly reached a trade agreement, a development with notable geopolitical implications for the South Asia region, including India.
Telangana Reserves 42% of Local Body Seats for Backward Classes
The Telangana government has issued an order reserving 42% of seats and positions in rural and urban local bodies for Backward Classes (BCs). This significant policy decision follows recommendations from a dedicated commission and is based on findings from the state's recent Socio-Economic, Educational, Employment, Political, and Caste (SEEEPC) Survey. The government stated the move is necessary to address the inadequate political representation of BCs, who constitute over 56% of the state's population, and aims to ensure social justice.
India Calls NATO Chief's Remarks on Modi-Putin Call 'Entirely Baseless'
India's Ministry of External Affairs has strongly refuted claims by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte that Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Russian President Vladimir Putin to question his Ukraine strategy following new US tariffs. The ministry spokesperson described Rutte's statement as "factually incorrect and entirely baseless," asserting that no such conversation took place. India called for greater responsibility in public statements from NATO leadership and reiterated that its energy import policies are guided by national interest and economic security.
Supreme Court Allows Green Cracker Manufacturing in Delhi-NCR, Maintains Sales Ban
Ahead of the Diwali festival, the Supreme Court has partially modified its ban on firecrackers in the Delhi-National Capital Region. The court will now permit the manufacturing of certified 'green crackers' within the NCR to protect the livelihoods of workers in the industry. However, it clarified that the absolute ban on the sale and storage of these crackers within the region remains in effect due to persistent air pollution concerns. The court emphasized the need for a balanced approach.
'Amar Singh Chamkila' and Star Diljit Dosanjh Earn International Emmy Nominations
The biographical film 'Amar Singh Chamkila' has become India's sole entry at the 2025 International Emmy Awards, securing two major nominations. The Netflix movie, directed by Imtiaz Ali, is nominated for Best TV Movie/Mini-Series. Its lead, actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, earned a nomination for Best Performance by an Actor for his portrayal of the iconic Punjabi folk singer. The recognition marks a significant achievement for Indian cinema and storytelling on a prestigious global platform.
US Urges India to Cease Russian Oil Imports Amid Tariff Pressure
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright publicly called for India to stop buying discounted Russian oil, stating it funds the war in Ukraine. This highlights growing friction, as the Trump administration recently imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods over this issue. While the US claims it doesn't want to punish India, the move underscores a significant diplomatic and economic challenge for New Delhi, which maintains its imports are vital for its energy security and are governed by market dynamics.
India Conducts First-Ever Rail-Based Test of Agni-Prime Missile
India has successfully test-fired its next-generation Agni-Prime ballistic missile from a train-based mobile launcher for the first time. This capability places India in a select group of nations able to launch strategic weapons from its rail network. The system enhances the missile's mobility and survivability, as it can be moved quickly across the country with reduced visibility compared to road-based launchers, allowing for faster reaction times. The Agni-Prime missile has a range of up to 2,000 km.
Defence Ministry Signs ₹62,370 Crore Deal for 97 Tejas Mk-1A Jets
The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth ₹62,370 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to procure 97 additional Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force. This is the largest-ever order for indigenous military hardware and brings the total number of Mk-1A jets on order to 180. The deal is a significant boost for India's self-reliance ('Aatmanirbharta') initiative and is critical for replenishing the IAF's dwindling combat squadron strength as it phases out its aging MiG-21 fleet.