Digest for 01 September, 2025
Hundreds Killed as Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan
A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake has struck eastern Afghanistan near the Pakistan border, killing at least 610 people and injuring over 1,300. The shallow quake, with its epicentre near Jalalabad, destroyed numerous villages and caused extensive damage. Officials warn that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue teams work to reach the remote, mountainous region. The Taliban-controlled administration is coordinating rescue efforts, with medical teams dispatched from across the country to assist the injured in the devastated areas.
SCO Summit Declaration Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack
At its summit in Tianjin, China, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) issued a joint declaration strongly condemning the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Concurring with India's stance, the 10-member bloc, which includes China, Russia, and Pakistan, stated that "double standards" in fighting terrorism are unacceptable. The Tianjin Declaration called for perpetrators to be brought to justice and stressed the need to combat the cross-border movement of terrorists, marking a significant diplomatic statement for India on a multilateral platform.
OpenAI Plans Major 1-Gigawatt Data Center in India
OpenAI is planning a significant expansion in Asia by seeking local partners to establish a massive data center in India. The project aims for at least a 1-gigawatt capacity, which would be among the country's largest. This move is part of OpenAI's 'Stargate' AI infrastructure initiative and its global 'OpenAI for Countries' effort. The facility would help the company provide customized AI services, address data sovereignty concerns, and support the Indian government's $1.2 billion IndiaAI Mission.
India's Manufacturing PMI Hits 17-Year High in August
India's manufacturing sector activity expanded at its fastest pace in 17-and-a-half years in August 2025. The HSBC India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose to 59.3, up from 59.1 in July. The strong performance was driven by a robust increase in new orders and production volumes, with output growth reaching its quickest rate in nearly five years. The positive data suggests sustained demand and buoyant business conditions, although growth in international orders slightly moderated amid global trade uncertainties.
India Post Suspends All Mail Services to the United States
India Post has suspended all mail services to the US, including letters, documents, and parcels, due to a lack of clarity on new American customs regulations. The suspension follows a US executive order that subjects most postal items to customs duties. With critical processes for duty collection undefined, air carriers have refused to transport US-bound mail, forcing the complete halt. The move disrupts a significant channel for personal correspondence, e-commerce, and small business exports, impacting countless individuals and companies across India.