“IMPORTANT DAYS”

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2025: India’s Progress and Global Challenges

Every year on October 17, the world observes the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, as designated by the United Nations. It’s not just a day to reflect on income disparities but also a moment to emphasize dignity, justice, and inclusive development. In 2025, the day focuses on a compelling theme: “Ending social and institutional maltreatment by ensuring respect and effective support for families”. It calls attention to the real struggles of families in poverty and challenges policymakers to transform support systems into ones built on trust and dignity.

“DEFENCE”

India and Indonesia Begin 5th Samudra Shakti Naval Exercise

Continuing their strategic defence cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, the Indian Navy (IN) and the Indonesian Navy commenced the 5th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise “Samudra Shakti 2025” on October 14, 2025, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The joint exercise will run till October 17, highlighting the growing maritime partnership between the two nations.

India–South Korea Inaugural Naval Bilateral Exercise Kicks Off at Busan to Strengthen Strategic Maritime Partnership

The inaugural India–South Korea naval bilateral exercise began at Busan Naval Base, with INS Sahyadri participating to strengthen navy-to-navy cooperation and deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries. The exercise includes harbour and sea phases, featuring cross-deck visits, professional exchanges, sports fixtures, cross-training, and complex joint manoeuvres between INS Sahyadri and ROKS Gyeongnam to enhance interoperability and operational synergy.

“AWARDS”

Sundarbans Aquaculture Model Wins FAO Global Award

The Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS) of West Bengal’s Sundarbans has earned global acclaim for its Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) model. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations honoured NEWS with Global Technical Recognition on 15 October 2025. This award was given during FAO’s 80th Anniversary Celebrations and the World Food Forum in Rome, Italy. SAIME is a pioneering approach that integrates aquaculture with mangrove conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable livelihoods.

“APPOINTMENTS”

Tarun Garg to Lead Hyundai India as First Indian MD & CEO

In a defining moment for Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), Tarun Garg has been appointed as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) effective January 1, 2026. His elevation marks the first time an Indian executive will lead Hyundai’s operations in India since its entry into the country in 1996.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Telangana Tops UPI Usage Intensity in India

The usage intensity of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in India has seen variation across states. Telangana leads in per capita UPI transaction volume, as revealed by a recent Reserve Bank of India (RBI) study. This trend marks the growing digital payment adoption and its impact on cash demand in the economy.

Mongolian President Visits India as Nations Celebrate 70 Years of Friendship

The year 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of India-Mongolia diplomatic relations. During this milestone, President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa visited India for official talks. The visit telld deepening ties in culture, defence, and development between the two democracies. President Droupadi Murmu hosted President Khurelsukh at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The visit celebrated seven decades of diplomatic engagement. Both leaders emphasised shared democratic values and cultural heritage. Mongolia was described as India’s ‘Strategic Partner’, ‘Third Neighbour’, and ‘Spiritual Neighbour’. This reflects the unique geopolitical and cultural connection between the two countries.