FCNR(B) Deposits Strengthen India’s External Financial Stability Framework

Why in the News ? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revived the FCNR(B) concessional swap window to attract foreign currency deposits from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The initiative aims to strengthen foreign exchange reserves, support the Indian rupee, and enhance resilience amid global economic uncertainty, offering structured investment solutions that appeal to institutional investors…

Southwest France Wildfire Triggers Mass Evacuations Amid Severe Heatwaves

Why in the News ? A massive wildfire in southwest France has forced the evacuation of over 20,000 residents and tourists after burning around 3,400 hectares of forest near Bordeaux. The incident highlights the increasing frequency of climate-induced wildfires and the importance of international disaster response mechanisms, raising ethical considerations about environmental social responsibility in…

India Develops Indigenous Turbojet Engine Boosting Defence Self Reliance

Why in the News ? India has successfully developed its first indigenous Expendable Turbojet Engine in the 350 kg thrust class, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The achievement marks a major milestone in indigenous aero-engine technology and strengthens the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence manufacturing, attracting attention from international investment funds…

India Reaffirms Indus Treaty Stand At United Nations Security Council

Why in the News ? At the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), India rejected Pakistan’s remarks on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and reiterated that the Treaty will remain in abeyance until cross-border terrorism ceases. India also reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country, addressing both security concerns and ethical…

Balancing Safe Footpaths And Street Vendors’ Livelihood Rights Together

Why in the News ? Following the Supreme Court’s recognition of the right to walk on safe, obstruction-free footpaths as a fundamental right, Bengaluru launched a large-scale Safe Footpath Drive. The eviction of street vendors has sparked debate over compliance with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014. Street…

Balancing Right To Protest With Public Order And Law

Why in the News ? The recent “Chalo Sansad” protest in New Delhi, followed by clashes between protesters and the Delhi Police, has revived the debate on the constitutional right to protest, the scope of police powers, and the legal framework governing the use of force under the BNSS, 2023. Constitutional Right to Protest and…

Nation Remembers Lokmanya Tilak On His Birth Anniversary

Why in the News ? On the birth anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the eminent freedom fighter, highlighting his contribution to the Swadeshi Movement, Swaraj, and India’s struggle for independence. Tributes and Contributions of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak ●  Home Minister Amit…

Government Clarifies Foreign Contribution Regulation Amendment Bill Provisions

Why in the News ? The Government of India has clarified provisions of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 (FCRA) following concerns raised by minority institutions and Christian organisations regarding the powers of the proposed Designated Authority over assets created through foreign contributions. Key Clarifications on the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026 ●  The Press…

Brazil Amazon Fires Decline Sharply Amid Conservation Efforts Success

Why in the News ? A recent MapBiomas report shows that forest fires in the Brazilian Amazon declined to their lowest level since 1985 during 2025, reversing the severe fire season of 2024. The development is significant for climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and global environmental governance. Amazon Fire Trends and Key Findings ●  According…

Lithuania Removes Soviet War Graves Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions

Why in the News ? Lithuania is relocating Soviet Red Army graves and memorials as part of its de-Sovietisation policy following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The move has intensified diplomatic tensions with Russia, which has accused Lithuania of attempting to rewrite history. Lithuania’s De-Sovietisation Drive ●  Lithuania has begun relocating Second World War-era Soviet Red…