Google Rolls Out Generative AI Search Capabilities in Hindi Globally
Google has launched the AI-powered mode in its Search feature in Hindi for users across the globe. Powered by a custom version of its Gemini 2.5 model, the update allows users to ask longer, more complex, or nuanced questions in Hindi and receive more helpful, personalized answers. The feature is designed to be multimodal, enabling queries via text, voice, or images. This global rollout significantly enhances information access for hundreds of millions of Hindi speakers, making advanced AI search tools more widely available.
Nepal Reverses Social Media Ban After Violent Protests Kill 19
The Nepalese government has lifted its ban on 26 social media platforms following violent protests that resulted in at least 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The "Gen Z Movement," largely comprising young people, erupted after the government blocked major platforms like Facebook and YouTube. The situation escalated when demonstrators tried to storm parliament, leading to a deadly police crackdown and the resignation of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. In response, India has tightened security along the Indo-Nepal border.
US Signals Further Sanctions on Russia, Potentially Targeting India's Oil Imports
US President Donald Trump has indicated readiness to escalate sanctions against Russia, a move that could affect nations purchasing Russian oil. While specifics are undisclosed, the measures could include secondary tariffs, posing significant economic and diplomatic challenges for India, a major buyer of Russian crude. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly supported the idea of imposing such tariffs on countries dealing with Russia, describing it as the "right idea," further intensifying the geopolitical pressure on New Delhi.
India and Israel Sign Bilateral Investment Agreement to Boost Economic Ties
India and Israel have signed a new Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) in New Delhi to promote and protect reciprocal investments. The pact, signed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her Israeli counterpart Bezalel Smotrich, replaces an earlier 1996 agreement. It aims to provide greater certainty for investors and expand trade, which is currently valued at $800 million. The agreement ensures fair treatment, safeguards against expropriation, and provides a mechanism for dispute resolution, strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations.
Palestinian Gunmen Kill Six in Attack at Jerusalem Bus Stop
Two Palestinian gunmen opened fire at a busy bus stop in Jerusalem during morning rush hour, killing six people and wounding twelve others. The attackers were shot and killed at the scene by an Israeli soldier and armed civilians. The attack is the deadliest in Israel since October 2024 and comes amid heightened tensions related to the ongoing war in Gaza. The Palestinian militant group Hamas praised the attack but did not claim responsibility. Israeli leadership has warned of wider military raids in response.
India Provides Belgium with Sovereign Assurance on Detention Conditions for Mehul Choksi
In a significant move to secure the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, India has given a formal assurance to Belgian authorities regarding his future detention conditions. The Ministry of Home Affairs detailed that if extradited for his role in the PNB fraud case, Choksi would be held in Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail with specific guarantees of personal space, medical care, legal access, and security. This sovereign commitment aims to address human rights concerns and advance the long-pending extradition proceedings.
Jammu and Kashmir's Lone AAP MLA Detained Under Public Safety Act
Mehraj Din Malik, the Aam Aadmi Party's only MLA in Jammu and Kashmir, has been detained under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA), which allows for detention without trial for up to two years. He is the first sitting legislator in the Union Territory to be held under the controversial law. Officials cited 18 FIRs and activities "prejudicial to the maintenance of public order" as reasons for the detention. The move has sparked widespread outrage from opposition parties, who condemned it as an abuse of power.
NIA Conducts Widespread Raids in Terror Conspiracy Case
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) launched a major counter-terrorism operation, conducting searches at 22 locations across five states and Jammu and Kashmir. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into a significant terror conspiracy case. In Jammu and Kashmir, the searches were concentrated in the districts of Baramulla, Kulgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama. The multi-state operation indicates a widespread network under investigation by the central agency, though further details about the specific conspiracy or groups involved have not yet been released.
Supreme Court Takes Over All High Court Challenges to New Online Gaming Law
The Supreme Court has transferred all petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, from various high courts to itself. The move, sought by the central government, aims for an expeditious and unified adjudication on the matter. The new law, which imposes a nationwide ban on real-money online gaming, has been challenged in several states for allegedly prohibiting games of skill in violation of the fundamental right to practice a profession, trade, or business.
Two Soldiers and Two Terrorists Killed in Jammu and Kashmir Encounter
Two army soldiers, Subedar Perbhat Gaur and Lance Naik Narender Sindhu, and two unidentified terrorists were killed during a fierce gunfight in the Gudar forest area of Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district. The encounter began after security forces launched a joint cordon and search operation based on specific intelligence. One other soldier was injured in the operation. This is the second major encounter in the Kulgam region in just over a month, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the area.
Punjab Announces ₹20,000 Per Acre Compensation for Flood-Affected Farmers
The Punjab government has announced a relief package for farmers affected by the state's worst floods in four decades. The measures include a compensation of ₹20,000 per acre for crop and field damage. Additionally, under a new policy, farmers can extract and sell sand and silt deposited on their land until November 15 without a permit to help clear their fields for the upcoming Rabi season. Other relief includes financial aid for loss of life and a six-month moratorium on bank loan installments.
US-India Tensions Rise Over Russian Oil Trade Comments
A diplomatic spat has erupted after White House advisor Peter Navarro accused India of profiteering from Russian oil purchases, claiming the revenue fuels Russia's war in Ukraine. His post on X was fact-checked by the platform's community notes, which stated India's trade is for energy security and does not violate sanctions. Navarro reacted angrily, calling the note "crap." India's Ministry of External Affairs rejected his remarks as "inaccurate and misleading," despite recent positive exchanges between President Trump and PM Modi.
Russia Affirms Growing Strategic Alignment with India and China
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia, India, and China are increasingly aware of their common interests and are developing their partnership. His comments followed a display of camaraderie between the leaders of the three nations at the recent SCO summit. Lavrov highlighted that the three major powers see mutual benefits in cooperation on economic development and social issues. This assertion of a growing trilateral convergence signals a significant geopolitical shift amid changing global dynamics and Western pressures.
Government 'Keeping Good Watch' as Rupee Hits Record Low Against Dollar
The Indian Rupee fell to a record low, closing at 88.27 against the US dollar, primarily due to the dollar's global strength and concerns over steep US tariffs on Indian goods. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated the government is keeping a "good watch" on the exchange rate, noting that the rupee's slide is largely against the dollar and that many other currencies are facing similar pressure. The depreciation follows the recent imposition of a 50% US tariff on Indian goods.
Russia Escalates Attacks on Kyiv, Killing at Least Two
Russia launched a major drone and missile attack on Kyiv, killing at least two people, including a one-year-old child, and injuring eleven others. A plume of smoke was seen rising from the roof of the cabinet of ministers building in the city center, raising concerns of an escalation as Russia has previously avoided targeting key government infrastructure directly. The attack, the second in two weeks, struck residential buildings and comes amid diminishing prospects for peace negotiations between the two nations.