The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a landmark advisory opinion stating that countries could be in violation of international law if they fail to take adequate measures to protect the planet from climate change. Nations harmed by climate change effects could also be entitled to reparations. Advocates welcomed the opinion, which underscores nations' obligations to tackle climate change. ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa described the climate crisis as an "existential problem" imperiling all life. The case was initiated by the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu and supported by over 130 countries, strengthening the global legal framework for holding nations accountable for climate inaction.
- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued an advisory opinion on states' obligations regarding climate change.
- Failure to act against climate change could constitute a violation of international law, potentially entitling affected nations to reparations.
- The ruling emphasizes the "existential problem" posed by the climate crisis to global health and life.
More than 100 aid and human rights organizations, including Doctors Without Borders and Save the Children, have issued a dire warning about "mass starvation" spreading in Gaza. They called for an immediate negotiated ceasefire, the opening of all land crossings, and the free flow of aid through UN-led mechanisms. The U.S. envoy is heading to Europe for talks on a possible ceasefire and aid corridor amidst mounting international pressure on Israel over the catastrophic humanitarian situation. Warehouses full of supplies remain inaccessible, and children are reportedly dying of starvation, highlighting the critical failure of political commitments to deliver access to over two million people.
- Over 100 NGOs have issued a severe warning about widespread starvation in Gaza.
- They demand an immediate ceasefire, open land crossings, and unimpeded aid flow via UN mechanisms.
- International pressure is mounting on Israel due to the dire humanitarian crisis affecting over two million people.
The article discusses the fundamental changes in warfare, moving beyond traditional physical force to digitally autonomous and interconnected systems. It highlights how events like Operation Desert Storm, the Ukraine war, and a hypothetical India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025 demonstrate the increasing reliance on drones, AI, cyber warfare, and hypersonic weapons. Author M.K. Narayanan emphasizes that India must rapidly adapt its military modernization plans, rethink defence procurement, and diversify its hardware to prepare for future multi-front conflicts, as traditional concepts of winning battles are outdated. The shift towards network-centric warfare necessitates a comprehensive strategic overhaul.
- Modern warfare is characterized by a shift from traditional physical force to digitally autonomous and interconnected systems.
- The extensive use of drones, AI, cyber warfare, and hypersonic weapons is transforming battlefield dynamics.
- India needs to urgently adapt its military modernization plans and diversify its hardware to meet these evolving challenges.
A trade deal between India and the U.S. continues to face a deadlock as the August 1 deadline approaches, primarily due to disagreements over agriculture and automotive components. India is firm on protecting its domestic farmers by resisting the opening of its agriculture sector to imports, while the U.S. is keen on this, viewing it as a precedent for future deals with the EU and Japan. Another key hurdle is the U.S.'s reluctance to reduce import duties on automotive components. Officials anticipate a potential last-minute surprise announcement from President Trump, similar to past deals with Indonesia and Vietnam, even as India aims for a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement later this year.
- The India-U.S. trade deal remains stalled primarily due to disagreements on agriculture and automotive components.
- India is resisting opening its agriculture sector to protect domestic farmers.
- The U.S. is reluctant to reduce import duties on automotive components.
The article highlights a growing geopolitical contest between India and China over Buddhism, particularly in the Himalayan region. China views Buddhism as a tool of statecraft, aiming to dominate Tibetan religious life by controlling reincarnations and promoting its version of Buddhist diplomacy. India, traditionally hosting the Dalai Lama, has recently begun to engage more strategically with Buddhism as a tool of influence, promoting its heritage and funding pilgrimage circuits. The looming succession of the 14th Dalai Lama, with China vowing to appoint its own, is a critical point that could reshape geopolitical allegiances in regions like Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, making soft power a hard power.
- A significant geopolitical contest is unfolding between India and China over the influence of Buddhism in the Himalayas.
- China uses Buddhism as a tool of statecraft, controlling religious institutions and the process of reincarnation, particularly for "Living Buddhas."
- India is increasingly engaging with Buddhism as a strategic tool, promoting its heritage and funding pilgrimage circuits.
The article discusses how the potential for a U.S.-Israel-Iran war, despite U.S. President Trump's claims, remains a threat, driven by Israeli politics and neoconservative influence. Such a conflict would be disastrous for India's economic interests and its 'great power' ambitions, cementing U.S.-led unipolarity in West Asia and undermining India's strategic footprint. This clashes with Delhi's vision of a multipolar world order. India's reliance on diverse energy sources and its engagement with various states in West Asia would be compromised. The author argues that India should urge the U.S. to tolerate Iran and accept global multipolarity, emphasizing that this aligns with U.S. security and economic interests in the long run.
- A potential U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict poses a significant threat to India's economic interests and its aspiration for 'great power' status.
- Such a conflict could lead to U.S.-led unipolarity in West Asia, contradicting India's vision of a multipolar world order.
- India's strategic autonomy and ability to engage with diverse partners would be undermined.
As the UK and India move towards a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are emerging as a key area for collaboration. India, already home to over 1,500 GCCs employing 1.9 million people, is seen by British companies not just as a cost-effective back office but as a strategic partner for R&D and digital transformation. The FTA is expected to facilitate deeper engagement by easing regulatory barriers, streamlining professional movement, and harmonizing digital and data governance. From the UK's perspective, the FTA offers access to a fast-growing digital economy, while for India, it aligns with digital economy ambitions and becoming a global hub for high-value services.
- The UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is poised to significantly enhance collaboration in Global Capability Centres (GCCs).
- India is a leading hub for GCCs, contributing to global innovation and digital transformation.
- The FTA aims to ease regulatory barriers, facilitate talent mobility, and harmonize digital standards.
Global chess body FIDE confirmed that India will host the Chess World Cup later this year, though the specific venue is yet to be declared. While New Delhi was initially considered, Goa has emerged as a frontrunner. The All India Chess Federation secretary stated that a few cities are under consideration, and an announcement will be made soon. The tournament is scheduled from October 30 to November 27, featuring 206 players competing in a knockout format for spots at the Candidates, a qualifying event for the World Championship. FIDE expressed excitement about bringing the event to India, recognizing the country's deep-rooted passion for chess.
- India has been confirmed as the host nation for the upcoming Chess World Cup.
- The venue for the tournament is still undecided, with Goa being a strong contender.
- The Chess World Cup is a significant event, serving as a qualifier for the World Championship.
South Africa initiated proceedings against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in January 2024, alleging its military campaign in Gaza amounts to genocide. The ICJ's provisional measures indicate a "plausible" risk of genocide. Genocide, defined by the UN Convention, requires acts committed with "intent to destroy, in whole or in substantial part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group." Proving genocidal intent is notoriously difficult, but experts argue Israel's conduct, including systematic destruction and dehumanizing rhetoric, fulfills the criteria. Despite ICJ measures, Israel's non-compliance continues, raising doubts about the international order, while major Western powers block decisive UN action.
- South Africa filed a case against Israel at the ICJ in January 2024, alleging genocide in Gaza.
- The ICJ has indicated a "plausible" risk of genocide, issuing binding provisional measures.
- Genocide is defined by the UN Convention as acts committed with specific intent to destroy a group, in whole or in part.
An analysis reveals that India's annual share of 'yes' votes on United Nations resolutions has fallen to 56% in 2025, the lowest since 1955, while abstentions have sharply risen to 44%, an all-time high. This shift, particularly noticeable since 2019, reflects an increasingly polarised world and the growing complexity of UN resolutions. Former diplomats suggest that abstentions serve as a "useful tool" for emerging and middle powers like India to express their positions more freely, especially when resolutions are convoluted with multiple provisions. This allows India to avoid voting 'yes' or 'no' when it agrees with some aspects but not others, thereby establishing its own nuanced stance.
- India's 'yes' votes at the UN have dropped to 56% in 2025, the lowest since 1955.
- The annual percentage of abstentions has increased to 44%, marking an all-time high for India.
- This change in voting patterns, prominent since 2019, reflects increased global polarisation and complexity of UN resolutions.
As India prepares to host the AI Impact Summit in February 2026, it has the opportunity to steer the global AI debate towards inclusive growth, development, and planetary protection, bridging geopolitical divides. Drawing on its digital experience, India can propose five key suggestions: measuring progress with pledges and report cards, ensuring global South participation, creating a common safety check, offering a middle road on AI rules, and avoiding fragmentation of summits. By focusing on sharing AI capacity with the global majority and turning participation into progress, India can reframe its identity as a leader on cutting-edge issues.
- India is positioned to lead the global AI debate by hosting the AI Impact Summit in February 2026.
- The summit aims to focus AI on inclusive growth, development, and protecting the planet, bridging geopolitical divides.
- India's digital experience, including Aadhaar and UPI, provides a credible foundation for its AI proposals.
Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong expressed optimism that the revival of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra would "inject impetus" into India-China ties, alongside discussions on refining border management rules. He noted a flurry of high-level visits as proof of improving relations, including the possibility of PM Modi's first visit to China since the Galwan clashes for the SCO Summit. Xu emphasized that China-Pakistan ties are not targeted at a third country and warned against Indian interference in the Dalai Lama's succession, stating it could cause friction. He also highlighted increased trade between China and South Asian countries.
- China is prepared to discuss refining border management and control rules with India to resolve disputed boundary issues.
- The revival of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is seen as an important initiative to improve bilateral relations.
- High-level visits between India and China for SCO meetings indicate improving ties, with a potential visit by PM Modi to China.
The European Union has sanctioned a Gujarat-based refinery owned by Nayara Energy Ltd., which has a 49.13% stake held by Russia's Rosneft. This action is part of a new sanctions package aimed at Russia's energy sector to weaken its ability to wage war in Ukraine. The EU also announced a lowering of the oil price cap for Russian crude from $60 to $47.6 per barrel for countries utilizing G7 shipping and insurance services. Additionally, the sanctions include an EU-wide import ban on refined petroleum products made from Russian crude oil and a full transaction ban on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 natural gas pipelines.
- The EU sanctioned Nayara Energy Ltd.'s Gujarat refinery due to its significant Russian ownership by Rosneft.
- The new sanctions package targets Russia's energy sector to diminish its capacity for war in Ukraine.
- The oil price cap for Russian crude was reduced from $60 to $47.6 per barrel for G7-insured shipments.
The United States has designated The Resistance Front (TRF) as a "Foreign Terrorist Organisation" and "Specially Designated Global Terrorist." TRF, a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. India welcomed this move, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar calling it a strong affirmation of India-U.S. counter-terrorism cooperation. India had already designated TRF as a terror outfit under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in January 2023. The U.S. Department of State highlighted TRF's role in the Pahalgam attack, which was the deadliest civilian attack in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
- The U.S. designated The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and Specially Designated Global Terrorist.
- TRF is a Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy and claimed responsibility for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
- India views this U.S. designation as a strong affirmation of India-U.S. counter-terrorism cooperation.
China has emerged as a global leader in the green energy sector, installing more wind turbines and solar panels in 2024 than all other nations combined and dominating the renewable supply chain. This dominance stems from decades of strategic state planning and massive investments in innovation, with State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) and banks playing a crucial role. Driven by climate goals, severe air pollution, and energy insecurity, China allocated $940 billion to renewables in 2024. Despite challenges like grid absorption and haphazard subsidies, Beijing responded with ultra-high voltage transmission lines and a focus on efficiency, now aiming for leadership in next-generation technologies like AI smart grids and green hydrogen.
- China leads globally in green energy installations and controls the renewable energy supply chain.
- Its success is attributed to long-term strategic state planning, massive investments, and the pivotal role of SOEs and state banks.
- Key drivers include addressing severe air pollution, achieving climate goals, and enhancing energy security.
India has cautioned against "double standards" as the U.S. considers a bill to impose 500% duties on countries buying Russian oil, and NATO warns against continued trade with Russia. The External Affairs Ministry stated that securing energy needs is an "overriding priority" for India, guided by market offers and global circumstances. India highlighted that European Union members continue to procure Russian oil and gas, and are major buyers of processed products from Indian refineries with Russian minority control. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri stated India has diversified its oil supply sources to about 40 countries. This underscores complex geopolitical dynamics of energy security.
- India faces potential 500% US duties and NATO threats for continuing to buy Russian oil.
- India asserts its sovereign right to secure energy needs based on market offers and global circumstances.
- India points out the hypocrisy of Western nations, particularly EU members, who continue to import Russian energy.
The Ministry of Commerce, through its departments like DGFT and DGTR, is actively monitoring and clamping down on import surges and dumping practices by India's trading partners. This initiative aims to protect the domestic sector from unfair trade practices. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) recently initiated anti-dumping investigations on eight product lines from 12 countries/groupings, targeting industrial chemicals and glass wool, among others. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) also restricted imports of palladium, rhodium, and iridium alloys (containing >1% gold) to prevent evasion of higher import duties on gold, which was being disguised as these free-import alloys.
- The Ministry of Commerce is actively monitoring and restricting import surges and dumping to safeguard India's domestic industries.
- The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has initiated anti-dumping investigations on eight product lines from 12 countries or groupings.
- Dumping refers to exporting goods at prices below their normal rate, harming domestic producers.
The article contends that the U.S., particularly under Donald Trump, has marginalized the UN and multilateralism, favoring bilateral deals that fragment the global order. It suggests India must accept this shift and focus on national prosperity and South-South cooperation. India needs to define 'strategic autonomy' and prioritize its core interests, looking East for ideas and trade agreements rather than West. The author highlights India's intrinsic strengths in the fourth industrial revolution and defense, advocating for a growth-focused approach, revisiting border issues, and leveraging opportunities like the BRICS Summit in 2026 to lead the Global South in fostering shared prosperity through reoriented tariffs and value chains.
- The U.S. is shifting away from multilateralism towards bilateral deals, leading to a fragmentation of the global order.
- India should adapt by focusing on national prosperity, South-South cooperation, and clearly defining its 'strategic autonomy'.
- India's foreign policy should prioritize trade agreements with Eastern nations (e.g., ASEAN) and leverage its strengths in technology and defense.
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three international crew members of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) returned to Earth on Tuesday, splashing down off the San Diego coast. The crew completed an 18-day sojourn on the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant step for India's human spaceflight ambitions. Group Captain Shukla, an Indian Air Force officer, is also selected for India's Gaganyaan Mission. The mission involved 320 orbits, over 60 research activities, and 23 outreach events. Astronauts will undergo a rehabilitation program to adapt back to gravity after experiencing microgravity conditions.
- Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three international crew members returned to Earth after an 18-day mission on the International Space Station (ISS).
- The mission, Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), involved an 18-day stay on the ISS, with the SpaceX Dragon capsule splashing down off San Diego.
- Group Captain Shukla is a key astronaut selected for India's upcoming Gaganyaan Mission, highlighting India's human spaceflight ambitions.
Australia is hosting its largest-ever war-fighting drills, Exercise Talisman Sabre, involving over 35,000 military personnel from 19 nations, including India. The three-week exercise, which includes live-fire missile launches from HIMARS, is expected to draw scrutiny from Chinese spy ships, which have monitored previous drills. For the first time, activities will also take place in Papua New Guinea, Australia's nearest neighbor. The exercise, biennial since 2005, aims to strengthen military cooperation among participating countries.
- Australia is conducting its largest-ever war-fighting drills, Exercise Talisman Sabre, with 19 participating nations.
- Over 35,000 military personnel, including from India, are taking part in the three-week exercise.
- The drills involve live-fire exercises, including missile launches from M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).
The article argues for a stronger India-Europe relationship, rooted in shared values and strategic compulsions, to foster a multipolar, stable, and equitable world amidst global disorder. Both India and Europe, as aspirational middle powers, are expanding dialogue in trade, technology, security, and climate change. Economic ties are growing, with EU FDI in India increasing by 70% between 2015-2022. The article emphasizes fast-tracking trade agreements, reinterpreting the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, and leveraging the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). It also highlights cooperation in digital architecture, clean energy, biotechnology, and defense, stressing the need for human mobility and political will to address issues like terrorism.
- India and Europe are urged to strengthen their partnership as aspirational middle powers to promote a multipolar world order.
- Bilateral engagement is expanding across trade, technology, security, and climate change, with significant growth in EU FDI in India.
- Fast-tracking India-EU Trade and Investment Agreements and reinterpreting the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism are crucial.
Canada is seeking new economic partners after the U.S. imposed a 35% tariff on Canadian imports, despite Ottawa rescinding a digital services tax. This move by the U.S., driven by a trade surplus in Canada's favour, has forced Canada to diversify its foreign and economic policy, similar to how Nepal recalibrated its strategy after India closed land ports a decade ago. Nepal's reliance on Indian ports and subsequent economic collapse led it to join China's Belt and Road Initiative, much to India's dismay. The article suggests the U.S. should learn from this history, as losing a close ally like Canada over trade imbalances could have significant repercussions.
- The U.S. imposed a 35% tariff on Canadian imports, despite Canada rescinding its digital services tax.
- This U.S. action, driven by a trade surplus in Canada's favor, has prompted Canada to seek new economic partners.
- The situation is compared to India's blockade of Nepal a decade ago, which forced Nepal to align with China.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, emphasizing the need for India and China to move forward on de-escalation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). He highlighted that disengagement achieved nine months ago has not been followed by troop withdrawal. Jaishankar called for normalizing people-to-people ties, avoiding restrictive trade measures, and addressing terrorism with "zero tolerance" through the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Both sides agreed to resume direct flight connectivity and India hopes China will restart sharing hydrological data on trans-border rivers.
- EAM Jaishankar stressed the need for de-escalation and troop withdrawal at the LAC for normalisation of India-China ties.
- He called for normalising people-to-people ties and avoiding restrictive trade measures, referencing Chinese export restrictions on critical minerals.
- Jaishankar urged the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to address terrorism with "zero tolerance."
The 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro highlighted the bloc's role as a voice for the Global South, aiming to transform a Western-dominated world order through South-South cooperation. BRICS, now an intergovernmental organization, comprises 35% of the global economy and nearly half the world's population, surpassing the G7. It seeks to foster economic, political, and social cooperation, advocating for greater representation in global governance and reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar. Despite its potential, the bloc faces challenges from internal divisions, differing national priorities, and external pressures from Western powers, including threats of tariffs. India's role as a bridge-builder is complicated by border tensions with China.
- BRICS serves as a significant institutional expression of Global South aspirations, aiming to challenge Western hegemony and promote South-South cooperation.
- The bloc has grown to represent 35% of the global economy and nearly half the world's population, surpassing the G7's economic share.
- Key objectives include fostering economic, political, and social cooperation, advocating for global governance reforms, and reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar.