Digest for 11 November, 2025
Death Toll in Delhi's Red Fort Blast Rises to 12; Terror Links Probed
A powerful car bomb near Delhi's Red Fort metro station has killed at least 12 people and injured over 20. The explosion occurred Monday evening in a slow-moving Hyundai i20 at a traffic signal. The Delhi Police have registered a case under the UAPA and Explosives Act, with multiple agencies including the NIA and NSG investigating. The probe is focused on a potential link to a recently busted "white-collar terror module" in Faridabad, with the suspected driver identified as a doctor from Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir.
Voting Underway in Second and Final Phase of Bihar Assembly Elections
Voting has commenced for 122 constituencies in the second and final phase of the Bihar Assembly elections. Approximately 3.7 crore voters are eligible to decide the fate of 1,302 candidates in this crucial phase, which includes the politically significant Seemanchal region. This round is a high-stakes battle for both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc, with the results expected to be a referendum on the Nitish Kumar government. Vote counting for both phases is scheduled for November 14.
US 'Pretty Close' to Trade Deal With India, Trump Signals Potential Tariff Reduction
US President Donald Trump has stated his administration is "pretty close" to securing a "fair trade deal" with India. Speaking at the White House, Trump hinted that tariffs imposed on New Delhi could be lowered "at some point," claiming that India has substantially reduced its purchases of Russian oil. The remarks suggest a potential de-escalation in trade tensions that have strained economic relations between the two countries, potentially paving the way for a new bilateral trade agreement.
'Severe' Air Quality Prompts Stricter GRAP-3 Curbs in Delhi-NCR
With Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorating to the 'severe' category, authorities have invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region. The emergency measures include a ban on non-essential construction and demolition work, restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, and the closure of stone crushers. In response, the Delhi government directed all schools to conduct classes for students up to Grade 5 in hybrid mode until further notice.
Prime Minister Modi Arrives in Bhutan for Two-Day Diplomatic Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced a two-day state visit to Bhutan aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation. The agenda includes talks with King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck and jointly inaugurating the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydroelectric project, a key milestone in the India-Bhutan energy partnership. Modi will also attend celebrations for the 70th birthday of Bhutan's fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, reaffirming India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and deep-rooted ties with the Himalayan nation.