India's Protest Against China's Territorial Claims

India has lodged a "solemn protest" with China over the establishment of two new counties in Hotan Prefecture, as parts of these regions fall within the Indian Union Territory of Ladakh.

India's Position on Sovereignty

• India maintains a long-standing and consistent position on its sovereignty over the area.
• The creation of new counties by China does not legitimize China's "illegal and forcible" occupation.
• External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India's non-acceptance of Chinese occupation.

Diplomatic Actions

• India has formally protested through diplomatic channels.
• Concerns were raised regarding the announcement made on December 25, 2024, by Xinhua about a hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River.
• India stressed the importance of transparency and consultation with downstream countries regarding mega projects on shared rivers.

Concerns Over Mega-dam Construction in Tibet

• China has approved a mega-dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which could significantly impact the Brahmaputra River's flow into India.
• The dam is poised to generate three times more power than the Three Gorges Dam.
• There are geopolitical, environmental, and seismic concerns, especially with its location near Arunachal Pradesh.

Summary

India remains firm on its territorial claims, protesting China's actions in Ladakh and expressing concerns over potential impacts on the Brahmaputra River due to upcoming Chinese hydropower projects. Diplomatic engagements continue to ensure protection of India's interests.

18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Programme

The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas programme is slated to occur in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10.

Chief Guest

• Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo is the chief guest.
• President Kangaloo is a descendant of Indian indentured workers who migrated to the Caribbean in the late 1800s.
• Her professional background includes a legal career starting in the 1990s and entering politics in 2001.
• She has held various ministerial positions, covering portfolios such as legal affairs, and science and technology.

Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards

President Droupadi Murmu will present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman during the valedictory session of the PBD Convention.

• The award recognizes the achievements of the Indian diaspora in multiple fields.
• Prominent awardees include:
   
  • Baroness Usha Kumari Prashar from the UK for her contributions in politics.
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  • Dr. Sharmila Ford from the US for community service.
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• Several institutions have also been recognized.

Selection Process

• The award recipients for the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) 2025 were recommended by a Jury-cum-Awards Committee.
• The PBSA is the highest honor bestowed upon overseas Indians.

Indo-Iran Bilateral Relationship Review

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Majid Takht Ravanchi, conducted a review of the bilateral relationship between India and Iran during their meeting.

Discussion Topics

• Chabahar Port:
  The significance of Chabahar Port was underscored for its role in Afghanistan’s reconstruction and economic development.
• Agricultural Cooperation:
  Emphasis on enhancing agricultural ties between the two nations.
• Trade and Economic Issues:
  Discussions aimed at improving trade relations and addressing economic challenges.
• Cultural and People-to-People Ties:
  Focus on strengthening cultural exchanges and enhancing connections between the people of both countries.

Foreign Office Consultations (FOC)

The 19th India-Iran FOC was conducted in New Delhi, led by Foreign Secretary Misri and Majid Takht Ravanchi.

Regional and Global Developments

• Situations Discussed:
  • Afghanistan
  • West Asia
  • South Caucasus

Multilateral Cooperation

• Commitment Reaffirmed:
  • United Nations (UN)
  • BRICS
  • Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)

Meeting with Jaishankar

Deputy FM Ravanchi also met with Jaishankar to discuss bilateral matters and regional challenges, with a focus on maintaining a high-level exchange momentum to strengthen cooperation.