“DEFENCE”

Indian Army Hosts Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025

The Indian Army hosted the third edition of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue (CDD) 2025 in New Delhi on 27–28 November, reinforcing India’s commitment to transforming its defence strategy in line with global trends and national security imperatives. Under the theme “Reform to Transform: Sashakt, Surakshit aur Viksit Bharat,” the Dialogue brought together military leaders, strategists, diplomats, academics, youth and private-sector experts to deliberate on India’s evolving security landscape and long-term defence transformation goals.

“AWARDS”

Rabih Alameddine Wins 2025 National Book Award for Fiction at 76th Annual Ceremony

Rabih Alameddine’s novel, “The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother),” won the 2025 National Book Award for Fiction, blending family comedy with wartime tragedy. Other winners included Omar El Akkad for nonfiction, Patricia Smith for poetry, Daniel Nayeri for young people’s literature, and Gabriela Cabezón Cámara for translated literature, highlighting a diverse range of literary achievements.

“DEFENCE”

India-Nepal Joint Military Exercise SURYAKIRAN-XIX Begins in Pithoragarh

The 19th edition of the India–Nepal joint military exercise, Exercise SURYAKIRAN-XIX – 2025, began on November 25, 2025, in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. This edition of the annual bilateral exercise will continue until December 8, 2025, aiming to enhance operational coordination and strategic understanding between the two neighbouring countries.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Indian Scientists Develop AI Tool ‘OncoMark’ to Decode Cancer

In a major breakthrough in cancer research, Indian scientists have unveiled ‘OncoMark’, an AI-powered diagnostic model that analyses cancer at the molecular level, potentially revolutionising how the disease is classified and treated. Developed by the S N Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences in collaboration with Ashoka University, this tool goes far beyond traditional cancer staging by identifying biological hallmarks that drive tumour growth, aggressiveness, and resistance to therapy.

Cyclone Ditwah Nears Tamil Nadu Coast; Authorities Brace for Rain and Wind

Cyclone Ditwah, a cyclonic storm forming over the southwest Bay of Bengal, is tracking northwest and expected to reach the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh by November 30, 2025, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). With the system intensifying, the IMD has issued alerts for several regions along India’s southeast coast, cautioning residents and activating emergency protocols.

Jakarta Becomes World’s Most Populous City, Surpassing Tokyo: UN Report 2025

Jakarta has officially overtaken Tokyo to become the world’s most populous city, according to the United Nations’ World Urbanisation Prospects 2025 report. With an estimated population of 42 million, the Indonesian capital now leads a list dominated by rapidly expanding Asian megacities. This shift comes as a result of the UN’s updated criteria, which aim to provide a more standardised and globally comparable framework for defining and measuring urban populations. The report reflects changing dynamics in urbanisation, migration, and demographic growth, making it a key resource for policymakers and students of urban development alike.

Camikara Becomes First Indian Rum to Win ‘Global Brand of the Year

In a landmark moment for Indian spirits, Camikara has been named the ‘Rum Brand of the Year’ at The Spirits Business Awards 2025, held in London. This recognition makes Camikara the first Indian rum to win the global title, standing tall among long-established brands from the Caribbean and Latin America, which traditionally dominate the category.

Malaysia to Ban Social Media Use for Children Under 16 Starting 2026

Malaysia will ban social media use for anyone under the age of 16 starting in 2026, aiming to protect children from online harms such as cyberbullying, financial scams, and child sexual abuse. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the policy and expects technology firms to comply, while the government is reviewing age restriction methods used in countries like Australia.