1) USA Declares BLA and Majeed Brigade as Terrorist Organisations
The United States has officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its suicide squad, the Majeed Brigade, as terrorist organisations. Both groups have been responsible for attacks in Pakistan, particularly targeting security forces and Chinese investments under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Why it matters: This designation will restrict their funding, international movement, and global support networks. It also strengthens counterterrorism cooperation between the US and South Asia.
Background: The BLA has been active in insurgent activities in Balochistan for decades, while the Majeed Brigade gained notoriety for suicide attacks, including on the Chinese Consulate in Karachi (2018).
2) VinFast Opens First Plant Outside Vietnam in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu
Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) giant VinFast has inaugurated its first overseas manufacturing plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. This marks a major step in India’s journey to become an EV manufacturing hub.
Why it matters: The facility will not only cater to Indian demand but also serve as an export base for global markets, boosting the Make in India initiative.
Did you know? VinFast, founded in 2017, is already one of Southeast Asia’s biggest EV makers and has been expanding aggressively into North America and Europe.
3) India’s First Drone & AI-Based Rain Experiment Begins in Jaipur, Rajasthan
India has launched its first-ever AI and drone-based rain enhancement experiment in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The project uses drones to seed clouds with special particles, aiming to trigger artificial rainfall in drought-prone areas.
Why it matters: With rising water scarcity, cloud seeding and AI-led weather modification could provide solutions for agriculture and urban water needs.
Global Context: Similar projects have been carried out in UAE, China, and the USA, with varying degrees of success.
4) Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati Wins Global Architecture Award 2025
The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBI), Guwahati, Assam has won the prestigious International Architecture Award 2025 for its innovative design. The award, presented by the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, recognizes excellence in global architectural projects.
Why it matters: This award places Guwahati on the global map, showcasing India’s Northeast as a rising center for modern infrastructure.
Background: The airport has been revamped with sustainable features, spacious terminals, and designs reflecting Assam’s cultural heritage.
5) Tata Group’s Nelco Partners with France’s Eutelsat to Provide OneWeb LEO Satellite Connectivity Across India
Nelco, a Tata Group satellite services company, has partnered with France-based Eutelsat to deliver OneWeb Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite-based broadband services across India.
Why it matters: This will bring high-speed internet to remote and rural regions, boosting digital inclusion, education, healthcare, and e-governance.
Background: OneWeb, part-owned by Bharti Enterprises and Eutelsat, has already deployed hundreds of satellites in orbit, aiming to provide global broadband coverage.
