Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's meeting with Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi signals India's strategic engagement with the Taliban amid regional flux. Key factors include security concerns, geopolitical shifts, and influence from China and Pakistan.

The Uttarakhand High Court criticized authorities for unregulated soapstone mining in Bageshwar, linking it to environmental degradation and cultural loss. A suo motu case prompted a damning report highlighting administrative complicity and lack of regulatory measures.

India and the Maldives have strengthened defense ties with India providing defense equipment worth Rs 35 crore and discussing ongoing military cooperation. This follows diplomatic tensions and aims to enhance Maldivian defense capabilities and maritime security.

The National Statistics Office estimates India's real GDP growth to slow to 6.4% in FY25 from 8.2% in FY24, with nominal growth stable at 9.7%. The slowdown is attributed to supply-side factors, but stronger second-half growth is expected.

The Supreme Court allowed a petitioner to challenge the rules on clinical trials in India, highlighting concerns about trials being conducted in poor countries. Amendments to the rules were made in 2019 and 2024 to improve safety and compliance.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation amid political pressure, a declining economy, and controversy over immigration policies. The Liberal Party seeks a new leader, while Canada faces challenges with the opposition and US President-elect Donald Trump.

The Reserve Bank of India's Financial Stability Report highlights the risk of consumer credit stress impacting secured loans

The Central Information Commission has ruled that all High Courts fall under its jurisdiction, not the State Information Commissions, under the Right to Information Act, 2005. This decision emerged following an appeal regarding access to court documents.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasized India's potential to develop cost-efficient AI solutions despite high capital barriers. He suggested focusing on applications over building indigenous models, highlighting AI's transformative potential for operational efficiency and societal impact.

Bengaluru has overtaken Chennai as India's top city for women, according to the Avtar Group's "Top Cities for Women in India" report. The study ranks 120 cities based on the City Inclusion Score, emphasizing gender inclusivity across various sectors.

A World Economic Forum report highlights that increased digital access, geopolitical tensions, and climate-mitigation efforts will shape India's job future by 2030. Significant growth is expected in roles like Big Data and AI, with Indian companies prioritizing skill-based hiring.

AI-driven automation and digitisation in India are revolutionizing industries by enabling zero-touch operations, enhancing productivity, and improving customer experiences. Key sectors like finance, healthcare, and telecom benefit from technologies like UPI, Digi Yatra, and eSIM.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar emphasized Odisha's strategic importance in India's Look East Policy, highlighting its potential in trade, technology, and tourism (3Ts) at the 18th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, encouraging investment from NRIs and PIOs.