Current Affair Category: International Relations

Why in News: Escalating tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, alongside China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) expansion, necessitated this summit. It marks India’s first hosting since the Quad’s revival in 2017, reflecting its rising diplomatic stature. Why Important: Prelims: Know Quad members (India, US, Japan, Australia), the Indo-Pacific strategy, and key […]

Why in News ? A new global survey conducted by the Future of Free Speech, an independent U.S.-based think tank, ranked India 24th out of 33 countries on support for free speech. The report, titled “Who in the World Supports Free Speech?”, highlights that while abstract support for free speech remains strong globally, there is […]

Why in News? The H-1B visa program is under increased scrutiny as bipartisan calls for reform gain momentum in the United States. The evolving trends in H-1B visa approvals and significant changes in applicant profiles over the past two decades highlight the need for policy revisions to address skilled immigration challenges. Key Points about the […]

Why in News? The Chandrayaan-5 mission received approval from the Indian government. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced this during an event to felicitate him for his new role. The mission marks another significant step in India’s lunar exploration program, building on the success of Chandrayaan-3. Collaboration with Japan adds an international dimension to the project. […]

Why in News ?  The United States authorities has recently denied entry to Pakistan’s ambassador to Turkmenistan, K.K. Wagan, and deported him from Los Angeles, citing “immigration objections.” Reason for Deportation: The deportation was reportedly due to an immigration objection, although the specifics of the issue remain unclear. It raised concerns about the official’s diplomatic […]

Why in News ? The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has recently  hijacked the Jaffar Express . The attack occurred in the Bolan district while the train was en route from Quetta, the provincial capital, to Peshawar.   History of Balochistan: Balochistan, located in the southwestern region of Pakistan, has a rich history shaped by its […]

Why in news ? The Indian PM Narendra Modi will be the chief guest at Mauritius’ National Day Celebrations on March 12. Key Points: Second visit since 2015; Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day Celebrations on March 12. Highlights historical ties due to the Indian-origin population (70% of Mauritius’ 1.2 million people). Historical Context: Indians […]

SIPRI REPORT 2025/Global Arms Trade Trends (2020-2024) 1. Key Global Highlights Ukraine: Became the largest importer of major arms globally. Arms imports rose nearly 100-fold compared to 2015-2019. Accounted for 8.8% of global arms imports during 2020-2024. Received arms from at least 35 countries since the war began in 2022, with further deliveries in the […]

Why Did Lalit Modi Choose Vanuatu? Lalit Modi, wanted by Indian law enforcement agencies, applied for Vanuatu citizenship likely due to its “golden passport” program. Golden Passport Program: Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) scheme allows wealthy individuals to purchase citizenship. Tax Benefits: No personal tax on income earned locally or internationally. No capital gains, inheritance, […]

Why in News? European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen  has recently unveiled a five-part plan to mobilize 800 billion euros for Europe’s defense and deliver immediate military support to Ukraine following the suspension of US aid. What is the purpose of the EU’s 800 billion euros defence plan? The plan, called “ReArm Europe,” is […]