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Record monsoon rains and water releases from Indian dams have caused severe flooding across Pakistan and India, damaging farmland, displacing millions, and killing hundreds. Climate change and poorly managed water resources are key factors. Relief efforts are ongoing amid criticism over international climate funding disparities.
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As of mid-October 2025, US soybean farmers are struggling due to China halting purchases amid ongoing trade tensions and tariffs. China, the largest buyer, has not bought US soybeans this season, diverting demand to Brazil and Argentina. President Trump plans to discuss soybean trade with Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC summit, while US farmers seek new markets and await potential government aid.
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On September 19, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a $100,000 one-time fee on new H-1B visa applications, up from $215. The move aims to prioritize American workers and reduce visa abuse but has sparked confusion, legal challenges, and concerns over impacts on tech firms and foreign workers, especially from India, which received 71% of visas last year.
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World leaders at the UN summit announced new climate goals, including China's pledge to cut emissions by 7-10% by 2035. Despite some progress, experts say commitments remain insufficient to prevent catastrophic warming, with many major emitters falling short of scientifically needed reductions. The upcoming COP30 in Brazil will test global resolve.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China will cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 7-10% from its peak by 2035, and increase wind and solar capacity sixfold over the next decade. The pledge marks a cautious step amid US retreat from climate commitments, but falls short of global expectations.
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Recent high-level meetings signal improved US-Pakistan relations, driven by shifts in regional alliances and US focus on energy development. Meanwhile, US-India relations face strain over Russia oil purchases and diplomatic disagreements, highlighting a complex geopolitical landscape as global powers recalibrate their alliances.
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US and India held high-level trade discussions in Washington, focusing on tariffs and Russian oil. While both sides aim for a deal by September's end, disagreements over Moscow's oil purchases and tariffs remain. The talks are part of broader strategic ties amid geopolitical tensions, with potential impacts on US-India relations and global energy markets.
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On September 28, 2025, India defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup final in Dubai but refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, the Asian Cricket Council president and Pakistan's Interior Minister. The post-match ceremony was delayed over an hour, ending without the trophy presentation amid ongoing political tensions and a refusal to shake hands between the teams.
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Canada has designated the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity, citing its involvement in murder, extortion, and violence targeting diaspora communities. The move aims to strengthen law enforcement powers amid ongoing tensions with India, following allegations of links to high-profile killings and Indian government influence. This marks a significant escalation in Canada's efforts against transnational crime.
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U.S. President Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu are pushing a 20-point ceasefire plan for Gaza, demanding Hamas disarm and accept a transitional government. Hamas is reviewing the proposal, which includes hostage exchanges and Israeli troop withdrawals. The plan faces internal Palestinian and Hamas divisions, with negotiations ongoing as violence continues.
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As of late October 2025, Russia has intensified drone and missile attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts across eight regions including Kyiv and Kharkiv. Ukraine's President Zelensky is in the US seeking advanced air defenses, long-range missiles like Tomahawks, and stronger sanctions on Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine advances domestic arms production and deep-strike capabilities against Russian energy assets, while Moscow warns of escalation risks.
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Starting October 12, 2025, 29 Schengen countries began implementing the Entry/Exit System (EES), replacing manual passport stamps with biometric checks for non-EU travelers. The system records fingerprints and facial images at first entry, storing data for three years to streamline border control and monitor 90-day stay limits. Full rollout completes by April 10, 2026.
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India plans to resume direct flights to China by late October 2025, ending a five-year suspension caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions. IndiGo will restart daily flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou on October 26, with potential expansions to Delhi-Guangzhou and Delhi-Shanghai routes. This move follows Indian Prime Minister Modi's recent visit to China and aims to normalize bilateral ties amid global trade uncertainties.
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On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched attacks on Israel, sparking a two-year conflict. Recent negotiations, involving US, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, show signs of progress toward a ceasefire, hostage releases, and Israeli troop withdrawal, though key issues like disarmament remain unresolved.
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Recent heavy rains in Nepal and India have caused deadly landslides and floods, killing at least 47 people and leaving many missing. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid blocked roads and disrupted flights. Climate change is intensifying monsoon patterns, increasing disaster risks in the region.
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India's textile industry and social fabric face challenges amid diplomatic tensions with Bangladesh and internal communal divisions. Ban on Bangladeshi sari imports hits Varanasi weavers, while Assam's unity over singer Garg's death highlights deep regional fractures. The BJP's centenary underscores rising national tensions.
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Europe's EU job market offers nearly three million openings, with France and Germany leading, while China introduces a new 'K visa' to attract STEM talent amid US visa restrictions. These moves aim to position regions as global hubs for innovation and long-term careers.
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On October 7-8, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Mumbai to promote the UK-India trade deal signed in July. Leading a delegation of over 120 business and cultural leaders, Starmer emphasized that visa liberalization for Indian workers or students is not part of the agreement. The deal aims to boost trade by lowering tariffs and expanding business ties, while the UK maintains strict immigration policies.
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India has resumed diplomatic ties with Afghanistan by reopening its embassy in Kabul and hosting Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The visit, the first by a Taliban leader since 2021, aims to strengthen regional cooperation, trade, and stability, despite ongoing international sanctions and regional tensions.
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited India, focusing on trade, security, and global issues. Discussions included India's role on the UN Security Council, ongoing Ukraine conflict, and strengthening economic links. The visit also highlighted India's continued purchase of Russian energy and Modi's friendly relations with Putin.
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Two major airports are nearing completion: Dubai's Al Maktoum Airport, designed to handle 260 million passengers annually, aims to take over from Dubai International by 2032; meanwhile, India's Navi Mumbai Airport, built by Adani, will start operations in December, easing congestion at Mumbai's existing airport and expanding India's air capacity.
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On October 8-9, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Mumbai to study India’s Aadhaar digital ID system, aiming to inform the UK’s planned “Brit Card” digital ID rollout by 2029. Starmer praised India’s system as a “massive success” despite privacy concerns and data leaks. The UK’s system will be narrower, focusing on employment verification to combat illegal work, with biometric data excluded.
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After two years of captivity, 20 hostages were released overnight, marking a significant step in Gaza-Israel peace efforts. The agreement, facilitated by US President Trump and regional mediators, includes a ceasefire, troop withdrawals, and prisoner exchanges. International leaders have welcomed the development, emphasizing hopes for long-term peace.
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Recent data shows increased energy imports from the US to India, amid ongoing diplomatic efforts. Meanwhile, the US and India are strengthening trade ties through new agreements, despite tensions over Russia and tariffs. UK-India relations also see progress with a major trade deal and high-level visits today, highlighting shifting global alliances.
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The planned Russia-Arab summit scheduled for October 15 in Moscow has been postponed due to insufficient confirmations from regional leaders. Only Syria and the Arab League confirmed attendance, while key powers like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE did not. Putin cited concerns over U.S. Gaza negotiations influencing Arab participation.
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Leaders gathered in Egypt for a Gaza ceasefire summit, but Israel's Netanyahu did not attend due to regional opposition and diplomatic tensions. Turkey actively worked to block his participation, citing regional support and diplomatic efforts. The summit aims to support Gaza's ceasefire, excluding Israel and Hamas.
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On October 17, 2025, John Bolton, former US national security adviser under Trump, pleaded not guilty to an 18-count indictment alleging unlawful retention and transmission of classified national defense information. The charges stem from sharing over 1,000 pages of sensitive material, including top secret data, with family members via personal email and messaging apps. The case is part of a broader Justice Department effort targeting Trump critics.
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India and China are increasingly paying for Russian oil in yuan, bypassing US sanctions. Recent US pressure aims to curb Russian revenues, but India resists, citing energy security. The move signals a geopolitical shift amid US-China-India tensions, with implications for global energy and currency dynamics.
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U.S. President Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Modi vowed to halt oil imports, potentially impacting Russia's access to petrodollars. India has not officially confirmed this, and industry officials are uncertain about the extent of any curtailment, with some expecting only a short-term decline.
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As of late October 2025, the US administration, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and President Donald Trump, is intensifying pressure on allies like Japan and India to halt imports of Russian energy. Japan continues limited LNG imports from Russia’s Sakhalin-2 project, while China receives shipments from blacklisted Russian LNG facilities. Trump also seeks to involve Europe in tariffs on Chinese imports linked to Russian oil purchases.
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As of late October 2025, US-India trade talks remain stalled amid tensions over India's discounted Russian crude imports. President Trump claims Prime Minister Modi assured him India will soon halt these purchases, but India has not formally confirmed this. The US maintains 50% tariffs on Indian goods, complicating efforts to finalize a trade deal before India's November state elections.
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On October 26, 2025, at the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, US President Donald Trump co-signed a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia to end deadly border clashes. The deal includes military de-escalation, removal of heavy weapons, prisoner release, and ASEAN observer deployment. Despite the truce, core territorial disputes remain unresolved, and tensions persist amid trade negotiations and regional diplomacy.
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On November 3, 2025, the US imposed sanctions on Russia’s largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, freezing their US assets and barring US business with them to pressure Moscow to end its war in Ukraine. The EU also adopted new sanctions, including a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports. India and China, major buyers of Russian oil, are reconsidering their purchases amid these measures. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue with US President Trump seeking China's cooperation to pressure Russia, while Russia showcases new nuclear weapons amid ongoing conflict.
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A stampede at the Swamy Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga, Andhra Pradesh, on Saturday morning resulted in at least 10 deaths and multiple injuries. The incident was triggered when a railing broke amid a large crowd gathered for Ekadashi. Authorities are investigating safety lapses and crowd management issues, with officials promising action. The event follows recent similar tragedies in India.
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Vast's Haven Demo spacecraft launched into orbit from Cape Canaveral, aiming to establish a commercial outpost. Meanwhile, India launched its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, supporting military communications and lunar ambitions. The US and China progress with space-based interceptors and reusable rockets, signaling a new era in space activity.
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Delhi is conducting a cloud seeding trial to induce rain and reduce winter air pollution. The initiative, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, aims to temporarily improve air quality, but experts question its effectiveness and emphasize long-term emission reductions.
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Senator Rubio emphasizes US efforts to strengthen relations with Pakistan without harming India, amid regional tensions. The US seeks to expand strategic partnerships, including defense and energy deals, as regional dynamics shift following US withdrawal from Afghanistan and evolving Indo-Pak relations.
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India's IndiGo flight from Kolkata to Guangzhou has resumed, marking the reopening of direct air links suspended since 2020 due to COVID-19 and geopolitical tensions. The move signals a cautious thaw in relations amid ongoing regional rivalry and recent gestures of goodwill, with additional flights planned from Delhi and Shanghai in November.
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A passenger train collided with a stationary goods train near Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, resulting in 13 deaths and about 20 injuries. Rescue efforts have concluded, and train movement has resumed. An inquiry is underway into the cause of the crash, which highlights ongoing safety issues in India’s rail network.
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India's women's cricket team won their first-ever World Cup on Sunday, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in Navi Mumbai. The victory is seen as a historic moment that could boost gender equality in Indian sports, with increased investment and visibility for women’s cricket. The win has inspired young girls and signaled potential long-term change.
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As of November 2025, the UN's Emissions Gap Report reveals that current national climate pledges will lead to a 2.3-2.5°C global temperature rise by 2100, surpassing Paris Agreement targets. Despite some progress, global emissions rose 2.3% in 2024. China's new 2035 goals mark its first specific emissions reduction target but fall short of what's needed. The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement threatens to negate recent gains ahead of COP30 in Brazil.
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Severe air pollution persists in New Delhi, with AQI reaching 344, prompting protests and government measures. Despite restrictions, pollution remains deadly, especially for vulnerable populations. Residents report health issues and protest for urgent action amid ongoing efforts to reduce emissions.
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On Monday, Nov 10, 2025, a car exploded near New Delhi's historic Red Fort, killing at least 13 and injuring over 20. Authorities have classified it as a terrorist incident under India's anti-terrorism law. Investigations link the blast to a militant cell with alleged ties to Pakistan-based groups. Over 650 detentions and multiple arrests, including Kashmiri doctors, have followed amid heightened security and political tensions.
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On Tuesday, a suicide bomber detonated explosives outside Islamabad's District Judicial Complex, killing at least 12 and injuring over 30. The attack, claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction, marks the first major assault on civilians in Islamabad in over a decade. Pakistani officials accuse Afghan-based militants and India-backed proxies, escalating tensions with Afghanistan amid ongoing border clashes and failed peace talks.
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Recent elections in Bihar show BJP-led coalition on track to form government amid concerns over electoral integrity. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh's leader Naidu promotes ambitious economic plans, including tech and green energy investments, aiming for rapid growth despite infrastructural challenges.
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A car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort has killed 10 and injured 32. Indian authorities arrested Amir Rashid Ali, linked to the attack, which they say was planned with a Kashmiri suspect. The incident follows recent Kashmir raids and a dismantled militant cell.
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A bus carrying 46 Indian pilgrims from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker overnight, resulting in 45 deaths and one survivor with injuries. The incident, one of the deadliest in recent years, has prompted condolences from Indian officials and ongoing rescue efforts.
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Western officials, including EU and US representatives, have expressed skepticism about a US-led peace plan for Ukraine. They emphasize the need for Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and European integration, while highlighting major flaws in the proposed agreement. The plan's future remains uncertain.
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Since late November 2025, X (formerly Twitter) has rolled out an "About This Account" feature showing where accounts are based. This exposed many popular US-focused political accounts, especially pro-Trump and pro-Israel ones, as operated from countries like India, Eastern Europe, Nigeria, and Bangladesh. The move aims to increase transparency but raises privacy and safety concerns.
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Dharmendra, a celebrated Indian actor known as 'He-Man,' died in Mumbai on Monday at age 89. He appeared in over 300 films, starred in classics like 'Sholay,' and was also a politician. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema.