The Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025, released by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), ranks Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States as the top three most innovative economies globally, with India climbing to 38th place among 139 economies and ranking first in the lower-middle-income group for innovation performance.
Top 10 Most Innovative Countries
2025 GII Rank
Country
GII Score
1
Switzerland
66
2
Sweden
62.6
3
United States
61.7
4
South Korea
60
5
Singapore
59.9
6
United Kingdom
59.1
7
Finland
57.7
8
Netherlands
57
9
Denmark
56.9
10
China
56.6
Switzerland leads for the fifteenth consecutive year, with strong performances across creative outputs and knowledge-intensive employment. China entered the top 10 for the first time in 2025, driven by excellence in knowledge and technology outputs and patent filings. India's Performance in GII 2025
India ranks 38th globally, the highest among lower-middle-income economies and in the Central and Southern Asia region.
India excels in Knowledge & Technology Outputs (#22 globally), has significant innovation clusters (Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai), and has advanced rapidly from 81st rank in 2015.
Despite improvements, India faces challenges in business sophistication, infrastructure, and institutional support; yet, it continues to outperform expectations relative to its development level for 15 consecutive years.
Global Trends and Methodology
The GII covers 139 economies, evaluating innovation through 80+ indicators including policy environment, education, infrastructure, and knowledge creation.
Global R&D growth slowed to 2.3% in 2025, marking the lowest growth since the 2010 financial crisis.
Europe leads innovation rankings, with six countries in the top 10; North America remains strong, and East Asia continues rapid progress.
Notable Overperformers
Middle-income economies like India, Vietnam, Türkiye, and Morocco showed substantial improvement in innovation performance.
India and Vietnam maintained their status as persistent overperformers for a decade and a half.
The GII 2025 highlights global shifts in innovation leadership, rapid technological advancement, and emerging research hubs outside traditional leader regions.
India’s rank and key strengths in GII 2025 India is ranked 38th in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025, making it the highest-ranking lower-middle-income economy and the leader in Central and Southern Asia. India’s Key Strengths in GII 2025
Knowledge & Technology Outputs: Ranked 22nd globally, India excels in high-impact research, patents, ICT service exports (1st globally), and technology-driven growth.
Market Sophistication: With a rank of 38th, India demonstrates strong financial resource mobilization, a vibrant venture capital ecosystem, and robust credit markets for innovation-led growth.
Innovation Clusters: Four Indian cities feature in the world’s top 100 innovation clusters—Bengaluru (21st), Delhi (26th), Mumbai (46th), and Chennai (84th). Bengaluru and Delhi are now among the top 30 global clusters, ahead of many high-income economies.
Human Capital & Research: India ranks among the top 40 worldwide, reflecting improvements in higher education, skilled workforce, and research collaborations.
India’s Weaknesses
Business Sophistication (64th), Infrastructure (61st), and Institutions (58th) are areas where India lags in the rankings.
Overperformer Status
India remains a consistent innovation overperformer, surpassing expected performance for its development level for the 15th year in a row, alongside Vietnam.
Strategic government initiatives like Startup India, Atal Innovation Mission, and NIDHI have contributed to creating a supportive policy environment for startups and R&D.
India’s sustained improvement in GII reflects robust growth in innovation capacity, the success of domestic innovation clusters, and effective policy measures for fostering innovation ecosystems.
Dextromethorphan hydrobromide cough syrup
Dextromethorphan hydrobromide remains one of the most widely used active ingredients in over-the-counter cough syrups, but recent news highlights several important updates regarding safety, recalls, and regulatory scrutiny as of 2025. Latest Recalls and Safety Alerts
In January and February 2025, several batches of dextromethorphan hydrobromide BP-containing cough syrups were recalled by Bells Healthcare in the UK due to precautionary concerns, specifically the presence of foreign material and quality issues.
Both the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and related safety bulletins have stressed the need for healthcare professionals to review product safety, and consumers are advised to check for recent recall notices.
Regulatory Status and Updates
In August 2025, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) completed a detailed safety update for combination medications containing dextromethorphan hydrobromide, indicating ongoing regulatory oversight and periodic reassessment of risks and benefits.
In India, the CDSCO recently banned 35 unapproved Fixed Dose Combinations (FDCs) in April 2025, tightening scrutiny, though dextromethorphan monotherapy remains in general use. Providers are now under stricter reporting guidelines regarding cough syrup compositions.
Clinical Use and Concerns
Dextromethorphan is generally well tolerated at recommended antitussive doses (15–30 mg per dose, up to 4 times daily), but it should not be used in children under four years old due to insufficient safety data and risk of toxicity.
Abuse and overdose risks remain a significant concern, especially in adolescents and young adults. High doses can cause neuropsychiatric effects, including agitation, hallucinations, and, in severe cases, coma or death. Poison control recommends vigilance regarding misuse patterns and accidental ingestion.
Summary Table: Key 2025 Updates
Aspect
Details (2025)
Major Recalls
Bells Healthcare cough syrups (UK, Jan–Feb 2025)
Regulatory Updates
EMA safety reassessment; India bans select FDCs
Pediatric Use
Not recommended under age 4
Abuse Risk
High doses cause serious side effects; growing concern
Dextromethorphan hydrobromide cough syrup continues to be widely available, but ongoing recalls and reinforced safety guidance mean prescribers and consumers should monitor for regulatory changes and updated recommendations.
Kuno national park- cheetah safari
Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh is now officially open for cheetah safari experiences starting from 1st October 2025, making it India’s premier destination for viewing reintroduced wild cheetahs. This marks a significant achievement in the Project Cheetah initiative and offers a unique opportunity to witness these animals in their new habitat.
About Kuno national park
Kuno National Park is a wildlife haven in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh, India, known for its strategic importance as a wildlife corridor. It was designated a national park in 2018 and has become famous for the reintroduction of cheetahs to India.
Cheetah reintroduction and population
Project Cheetah: This project began in September 2022, with the release of eight cheetahs from Namibia, marking the world's first inter-continental large carnivore translocation. Another 12 cheetahs from South Africa were released in February 2023.
Population success: The program is considered a success, with a cub survival rate exceeding the global average. As of late September 2025, India has gained seven cheetahs compared to the initial number, with 27 total cheetahs (24 at Kuno and 3 at Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary).
Future plans: India is in negotiations with African countries like Botswana and Namibia to import another 8–10 cheetahs by December 2025 to strengthen the gene pool.
Biodiversity
Mammals: Besides cheetahs, the park is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, hyenas, sloth bears, sambar deer, and Indian wolves.
Birds: Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot numerous species, such as the Indian eagle owl, painted stork, and Indian roller.
Flora: The vegetation consists of dry deciduous forests, mixed forests, and grasslands, featuring species like teak, salai, and bamboo.
Safari Booking and Timings
Cheetah safaris can be booked online either through the official Kuno National Park portal, specialized safari booking services, or associated accommodation providers.
Required documents include ID proof for Indian nationals and passport details for international visitors.
Booking is available up to 120 days in advance.
Safaris are conducted twice daily: morning (approx. 6:00 AM–10:30 AM) and afternoon/evening (approx. 3:00 PM–7:00 PM), with minor variations by season.
The park remains closed for visitors during the monsoon period (1st July to 30th September).
Cheetah Viewing and Guidelines
Guided jeep safaris increase the chance of cheetah sightings and also allow visitors to spot other wildlife and over 200 bird species.
Visitors must closely follow park regulations for safety and conservation – including not attempting to approach, disturb, or photograph cheetahs at close quarters, and always reporting any cheetah encounters, especially outside designated zones, to park authorities.
Cheetahs are generally not considered a threat to humans, but guidelines include keeping a safe distance, not provoking the animals, and reporting any straying cheetahs to the forest department.
Recent Milestones
Kuno is home to India’s only population of wild cheetahs, currently numbering over 24, including several India-born individuals after the successful breeding of reintroduced cheetahs.
Cheetah safaris in Kuno are expected to boost eco-tourism and provide educational opportunities regarding wildlife conservation in India.
Important Notes
Advance booking is highly recommended during the peak season (post-monsoon to early summer).
Main entry to the park is through the Tiktoli gate.
Kuno National Park’s cheetah safaris are a rare experience, providing a glimpse of a species once extinct in India and now thriving via a globally unique reintroduction project.
Moody's rating - india's sovereign rating BAA3
As of September 29, 2025, Moody's has affirmed India's sovereign rating at Baa3 with a stable outlook. This is the lowest investment-grade rating offered by Moody's, indicating moderate credit risk. Key takeaways from the Moody's report
Affirmation based on credit strengths: Moody's states that the rating reflects India's sustained credit strengths, which include a large and rapidly growing economy, a strong external position, and a stable domestic financing base for fiscal deficits.
Fiscal weaknesses remain: The rating is balanced by longstanding fiscal challenges. Moody's noted that strong economic growth would only lead to a gradual decline in the government's high debt burden and that recent revenue-eroding measures could hinder fiscal consolidation.
Resilience against external shocks: The rating agency noted that India's strengths lend it resilience against adverse external trends, such as global trade restrictions and potential US tariffs.
Growth projection: Moody's projected India's economic growth to remain strong, with GDP growth of 6.5% for the fiscal year 2025–26, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing G20 economy.
Outlook implications: A "stable" outlook suggests that Moody's does not anticipate a change to India's sovereign rating in the near future. An upgrade would depend on a material improvement in India's fiscal position and debt affordability.
About Moody's rating agency
Moody's is an American business and financial services company that provides credit ratings, research, and analytical tools. It is considered one of the "Big Three" credit rating agencies, along with Standard & Poor's and Fitch Group. Key information
Company structure: Moody's Corporation is the parent company with two main divisions:
Moody's Ratings: Formerly Moody's Investors Service, this division provides credit ratings for various debt securities issued by companies, governments, and other entities.
Moody's Analytics: This division offers data, insights, software, and tools for economic analysis and risk management.
Credit ratings: Moody's ratings use a standardized scale to measure the creditworthiness of borrowers and the debt they issue. The scale ranges from Aaa (highest quality, lowest risk) to C (lowest quality, typically in default).
Purpose of ratings: The purpose of Moody's ratings is to give investors a system for gauging the relative creditworthiness of securities. The ratings are forward-looking opinions on the likelihood that a debt issuer will repay its obligations.
Headquarters: Moody's headquarters is located in New York City, with offices worldwide.
History
Founding: The company traces its history back to John Moody, who began publishing investment manuals in 1900.
Pioneering ratings: In 1909, John Moody introduced the first widely accessible system for rating railroad bonds with letter grades.
Independence: Following a decades-long acquisition by Dun & Bradstreet in 1962, Moody's Investors Service was spun off as an independent, publicly traded company in 2000.
Subprime crisis: During the 2008 financial crisis, Moody's and other rating agencies faced criticism for having assigned high ratings to mortgage-backed securities that later defaulted.
Context of the Baa3 rating
Lowest investment grade: Baa3 is the lowest rating in the investment-grade category. A rating lower than this would be considered "junk" status, which would make it more expensive for India to borrow money internationally.
Comparison with other agencies: While Moody's affirmed its Baa3 rating, other agencies have recently made different assessments:
S&P Global: In August 2025, S&P upgraded India's sovereign rating by one notch to "BBB" (stable outlook), its first upgrade for India in over 18 years.
Morningstar DBRS and R&I: Also upgraded India's rating to "BBB" and "BBB+" respectively in 2025.
Tomahawk Missile
The latest update on Tomahawk missiles in 2025 is that the United States is considering supplying Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine to enhance its long-range strike capabilities deep inside Russian territory. Key points:
The U.S. is weighing the sale/supply of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, with potential for long-range strikes inside Russia.
Russia views this as a potential major escalation and is analyzing targeting control issues.
The missile's range of 2,500 km allows hitting strategic targets far inside Russian territory.
U.S. Vice President and military officials have publicly discussed the issue; President Trump holds the final decision.
U.S. Marine Corps is retiring some Tomahawk launchers for mobility reasons, but systems can be adapted for Ukrainian use.
Tomahawk Block V upgrades continue, enhancing targeting and maritime strike capabilities.
Japan is also receiving Tomahawk missile enhancements to its naval forces.
This development is part of the broader context of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and U.S. military support considerations.
About Tomahawk missile
The Tomahawk missile (BGM-109) is an American long-range, all-weather, subsonic cruise missile primarily launched from ships and submarines to strike fixed land targets with high precision.
It can fly low to evade radar, navigate via GPS, inertial systems, and terrain contour mapping, and carry either conventional or nuclear warheads.
The missile is about 6 meters long, has a range of up to approximately 2,400 km (1,500 miles), and travels at about 885 km/h (550 mph).
There are multiple variants of the Tomahawk, including the modern Block IV and Block V versions.
These versions have enhanced capabilities such as in-flight target retargeting, loitering over battlefields awaiting orders, two-way satellite data links for status updates, improved anti-jam GPS, and the ability to strike moving maritime targets (Block Va) or use multiple-effect warheads (Block Vb).
The Tomahawk missile has been extensively used by the U.S. Navy, Royal Australian Navy, and Royal Navy for precision strikes, with over 2,350 operational uses since its first combat deployment in 1991.
Its modern use includes strikes in conflict zones such as Yemen in 2024. It is considered a versatile and mature weapon for precision long-range strike missions.
In summary, the Tomahawk missile is a highly capable, long-range cruise missile notable for precision strikes from sea and submarine platforms, with advanced guidance, retargeting, and battlefield flexibility
Potential Tomahawk supply to Ukraine
Request from Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asked the U.S. to provide long-range Tomahawk missiles, which could be supplied either directly or via European allies. Supporters of the plan argue this would allow Ukraine to strike high-value targets deep within Russian territory.
U.S. consideration: In late September 2025, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance confirmed the U.S. is reviewing the request, with the final decision resting with President Donald Trump.
Russian reaction: Moscow has warned that providing Tomahawks to Ukraine would be a serious escalation, though Russian officials downplayed the missile's ability to change the course of the war.
Block V upgrade and modernization
Recertification: The U.S. Navy and manufacturer Raytheon are continuing the recertification and modernization program for existing Tomahawk missiles, which extends their service life by 15 years and converts them to the advanced Block V standard.
Block V features: The Block V series includes three variants:
Block V (Base): An updated version of the Block IV Tactical Tomahawk with upgraded navigation and communication systems.
Block Va (Maritime Strike Tomahawk—MST): A new anti-ship variant designed to hit moving targets at sea, with U.S. naval destroyers and submarines set to receive this capability by the end of September 2025 and 2026, respectively.
Block Vb: Features a Joint Multiple Effects Warhead System (JMEWS) for striking more diverse land-based targets.
Production: Raytheon received a $401.2 million contract in December 2024 for the full-rate production of 131 Block V Tomahawks for the U.S. and allies.
Acquisition by allies
Japan: The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force began integrating Tomahawk missile capabilities on a Kongo-class destroyer in September 2025. Japan accelerated its acquisition by opting for an initial batch of Block IV missiles in addition to later Block V variants.
Australia: The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) successfully conducted its first-ever Tomahawk missile test-fire in December 2024, launched from a Hobart-class destroyer. The RAN is acquiring both Block IV and Block V versions.
United Kingdom: The Royal Navy is continuing to upgrade its Tomahawk inventory to the Block V standard, with a program underway since 2024.
Recent operational use Middle East: U.S. and U.K. naval forces have continued to use Tomahawk missiles in combat, including strikes against Houthi rebel sites in Yemen throughout 2024 and 2025. A U.S. official stated that in June 2025, submarines fired 30 Tomahawk missiles at Iranian nuclear sites.
Bishnoi gang-Terrorist entity
In September 2025, the Canadian government officially declared the Bishnoi gang a terrorist entity under its Criminal Code. This designation gives Canadian law enforcement enhanced powers to combat the gang's activities within the country. Key details regarding the designation:
Targeting diaspora communities: Canadian Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree stated that the gang has targeted specific diaspora communities with "terror, violence, and intimidation". It has engaged in murder, shootings, arson, and extortion to create a "climate of insecurity".
Law enforcement powers: The terrorist designation allows Canadian law enforcement to freeze or seize any assets owned by the gang in Canada, such as property, vehicles, and money. It also provides stronger tools to prosecute individuals for offenses related to financing, travel, and recruitment.
Immigration restrictions: The listing can be used by Canadian immigration and border officials to deny entry to suspected gang members.
Operating from India: Although the gang is primarily based in India, the Canadian government confirmed its presence and activity within Canada, particularly in areas with significant diaspora communities.
Political pressure: The move followed months of political pressure from opposition parties and provincial premiers who had called for the gang to be designated as a terrorist organization.
This designation marks a significant development in Canada's approach to the gang, which has been linked to numerous violent incidents and extortion plots targeting Canadian residents.
Cross-border railway projects-India-Bhutan
India and Bhutan are establishing their first-ever cross-border railway links, with the official announcement made on September 29, 2025. The two new rail links, valued at over ?4,000 crore, will provide Bhutan with rail access to India's vast network and strengthen bilateral ties.
The projects were agreed upon following a Memorandum of Understanding signed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan in March 2024. India is fully funding the projects, and construction is expected to begin shortly.
Rail links and project details
Two cross-border routes have been announced:
Kokrajhar (Assam) to Gelephu (Bhutan)
Length: 69 km.
Cost: ?3,456 crore.
Alignment: 66.61 km in India and 2.39 km in Bhutan.
Stations: Six new stations will be built.
Infrastructure: Includes two major viaducts, nearly 100 bridges, and 40 underpasses.
Timeline: Four years for completion.
Significance: Gelephu is being developed as a "Mindfulness City" and this link will improve logistics for the project.
Banarhat (West Bengal) to Samtse (Bhutan)
Length: 20 km.
Cost: ?577 crore.
Alignment: 17.42 km in India and 2.13 km in Bhutan.
Stations: Two stations will be constructed.
Infrastructure: Features two stations, 25 bridges, and 37 underpasses.
Timeline: Three years for completion.
Significance: This route will boost trade and connectivity to Samtse, an emerging industrial hub.
Strategic importance and benefits
The projects are seen as a major milestone with significant benefits for both nations:
Enhanced Connectivity: For the first time, passengers and freight will be able to travel directly from India into Bhutan by train.
Economic Opportunities: The links will boost bilateral trade, tourism, and foster greater economic engagement. Indian Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw noted that seamless rail connectivity is crucial since most of Bhutan's trade passes through Indian ports.
Strategic Ties: The initiative reinforces the long-standing trust, friendship, and cultural ties between India and Bhutan.
Developmental Support: This railway project is part of India's larger developmental assistance to Bhutan, which includes a ?10,000 crore pledge for Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029).
Both projects will be fully funded by India and will provide Bhutan access to India's extensive 1,50,000 km railway network, facilitating trade, people-to-people connectivity, and economic growth. The rail lines will also have modern infrastructure including multiple bridges, stations, goodsheds, and electrification, supporting both passenger and freight services such as high-speed Vande Bharat trains.
These railway projects are part of India and Bhutan's deep-rooted relationship based on trust, cultural ties, and shared developmental interests, aiming to boost Bhutan's economy and enhance regional connectivity.
NCRB Report 2023- Crime Against ST
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report for 2023, India saw a sharp 28.8% increase in crimes registered against Scheduled Tribes (STs). The total number of cases rose from 10,064 in 2022 to 12,960 in 2023. The national crime rate for this category also increased from 9.6 to 12.4 per lakh population. Overall trends
The surge in crimes against STs occurred even as certain other serious crimes, such as murder, saw a slight decline nationally.
The increase in cybercrimes was even higher, with an increase of 31.2% in 2023.
Crimes against Scheduled Castes (SCs), by contrast, only had a marginal increase of 0.4% during the same period.
Manipur: The worst-affected state
The report paints a particularly grim picture for Manipur, which recorded a staggering 3,399 cases of crimes against STs.
This represents a massive jump from just a single case registered in 2022 and no cases in 2021.
The significant increase is linked to the ethnic violence that broke out between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in May 2023.
Specific incidents detailed in the report for Manipur include 1,051 cases of arson, 260 cases of dacoity, and 193 cases of intimidation or illegal land disposal against tribal communities.
Other key states
Madhya Pradesh: Registered the second-highest number of crimes against STs, with 2,858 cases.
Rajasthan: Recorded 2,453 cases against STs in 2023.
Common crimes against STs
The NCRB report found that the highest number of cases against STs were registered under simple hurt (2,757 cases), followed by riots (1,707 cases), and rape (1,189 cases).
National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) is an Indian government agency under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), established in 1986 to serve as a central repository for crime and criminal data.
It is headquartered in New Delhi and functions to collect, analyze, and disseminate crime statistics as defined by the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Special and Local Laws (SLL).
Functions and Initiatives
NCRB plays a pivotal role in modernizing India’s criminal justice system through technology-driven solutions.
One of its key initiatives is the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS), launched on August 17, 2022, by Home Minister Amit Shah.
NAFIS maintains a national database of criminal fingerprints, assigning a unique 10-digit National Fingerprint Number (NFN) to each arrested individual, which remains linked to all their criminal records for life.
As of October 31, 2024, the system contains 1.06 crore fingerprint records accessible in real time by law enforcement agencies nationwide.
Digital Platforms and Data Dissemination
The NCRB manages the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS), a digital platform that integrates crime data across police stations and enables seamless information sharing between states and central agencies.
It also publishes annual reports such as Crime in India, with the 2022 edition available through data.gov.in, providing detailed statistics on cognizable crimes, IPC offenses, SLL cases, and violent crimes including murder.
New Criminal Laws Implementation Support
To assist stakeholders in transitioning to the new criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)—the NCRB launched the "NCRB SANKALAN" mobile app. This application offers a comprehensive, searchable guide with side-by-side comparisons between old and new laws, visual charts highlighting key changes, and full-text access to the updated legal frameworks.
Organizational Structure and Leadership
The NCRB operates as an attached office of the MHA and is currently headed by Vivek Gogia (IPS), who serves as its director. The bureau was formed by merging several existing units, including the Directorate of Coordination and Police Computer (DCPC), the Inter-State Criminals Data Branch, and the Central Fingerprint Bureau of the CBI, based on recommendations from the National Police Commission (1977) and the Task Force (1985)
NCRB report 2023
The NCRB Crime in India 2023 report shows a marginal increase in crimes against women to about 4.48 lakh cases with a national crime rate of 66.2 per lakh female population.
Crimes against Scheduled Tribes rose sharply by 28.8% to 12,960 cases, with Manipur being the worst affected due to ethnic violence.
Crimes against children increased by 9.2%, while juvenile cases also saw a slight rise.
Overall, there was a 7.2% increase in total recorded crimes to 6.24 million cases, driven largely by a surge in cybercrime, which rose 31.2% to 86,420 cases.
Traditional violent crimes like murder and rape declined slightly.
Economic offences also saw a steady increase in 2023.
The report highlights a shift in crime patterns from violent crimes towards technology-driven and economic crimes, emphasizing the need for stronger cybersecurity and law enforcement capabilities in India.
Key Crime Trends in 2023 NCRB Report
Total recorded crimes: 6.24 million, +7.2%
Crimes against women: 4,48,211 cases, +0.7%
Crimes against Scheduled Tribes: 12,960 cases, +28.8%
Crimes against children: 1,77,335 cases, +9.2%
Juvenile cases: 31,365 cases, +2.7%
Cybercrime: 86,420 cases, +31.2%; major motives fraud, sexual exploitation, extortion
Traditional violent crimes (murder, rape) declined slightly
Economic offences increased by 6%
Significant State Data
Uttar Pradesh recorded highest cases of crimes against women
Manipur recorded highest crimes against Scheduled Tribes, linked to ethnic violence
Karnataka, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh showed highest cybercrime cases
The report signals a change in crime dynamics in India, with the digital ecosystem becoming a significant focus for crime control policies and law enforcement.
Typhoon- Bualoi
Typhoon Bualoi, also known as Typhoon Opong in the Philippines, was a strong and deadly tropical cyclone that affected the central Philippines and northern Vietnam in late September 2025.
It originated near Yap on September 22, intensified into a typhoon, and made multiple landfalls in the Philippines before moving westward into the South China Sea. It later struck northern central Vietnam as a Category 2-equivalent typhoon.
This was the second tropical cyclone to be named Bualoi. The name, which was provided by Thailand, refers to a Thai dessert made of chewy rice balls and coconut milk. A previous Typhoon Bualoi occurred in 2019.
Key impacts include:
In the Philippines, Bualoi caused at least 20 deaths, 13 missing persons, extensive damage to thousands of homes, schools, roads, bridges, and power infrastructure, affecting about 400,000 people evacuated.
Agricultural and infrastructure damages were significant, especially in provinces like Masbate and Oriental Mindoro.
In Vietnam, Bualoi made landfall with winds up to 130 km/h, resulting in at least 19 deaths, 88 injuries, and many missing persons.
The storm caused flooding, landslides, power outages, and damage to over 100,000 homes, primarily in northern central regions such as Nghe An and Ha Tinh. It led to evacuations and disruptions including flight cancellations. Heavy rains continued after the typhoon, raising risks of further flooding and landslides.
The storm was notable for its rapid intensification and multiple landfalls, leaving widespread destruction in its path across both countries.
Impact in Vietnam
As of September 30, 2025, Bualoi was considered the most devastating storm to hit Vietnam that year.
Casualties: The death toll in Vietnam rose to at least 19, with more than a dozen people missing.
Damage and flooding: The storm unroofed and damaged over 100,000 houses, particularly in the Nghe An and Ha Tinh provinces. Torrential rains led to widespread flooding in cities, including Hanoi, and landslides in northern and central provinces.
Disruptions: In preparation for the storm, over 28,500 people were evacuated, and flights were delayed or cancelled at airports in central provinces.
Impact in the Philippines
Before striking Vietnam, Typhoon Bualoi hit the central Philippines.
Casualties: The storm was responsible for at least 27 deaths in the Philippines.
Evacuations: More than 400,000 people were evacuated in the Philippines.
Timing: Bualoi struck the Philippines only days after Super Typhoon Ragasa had also caused significant damage and killed at least 14 people.
Wider regional impact
As the storm weakened and moved inland, heavy rains continued to affect the region.
Thailand and Laos: Flooding was reported in 17 provinces in Thailand, with some casualties. The weakened storm eventually crossed into Laos.
100% tariff on all movies made outside US
The United States President Donald Trump announced the imposition of a 100% tariff on all movies made outside the United States. This tariff aims to protect the American film industry, which Trump claims has been "stolen" by other countries.
The tariff is directed mainly at foreign film productions entering the U.S. market, including those that impact Hollywood production moving to countries like Canada, Spain, and South Korea. The tariff announcement was made via a post on Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, in late September 2025.
Key points about the tariff:
The tariff is 100% on all films produced outside the U.S.
It targets the global film industry's cross-border production and distribution.
The move is seen as protectionist, aimed at safeguarding local jobs and investments in the American film industry.
There is uncertainty about how the tariff would be implemented, especially given the globalized nature of film production and digital distribution.
Concerns have been raised by international stakeholders, including the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, about the economic impact on collaborative cross-border film productions.
Indian film industry leaders see this as primarily targeting Hollywood productions abroad rather than foreign language films.
The tariff could affect streaming platforms like Netflix, which distribute foreign films digitally, but full details are not yet clear.
This tariff represents a new approach to protectionism in the cultural sector, marking the first instance of a U.S. tariff on digitally delivered services like films distributed internationally.
If you want, deeper details on the tariff's implications on various industries or countries can be explored further.
Impact on Indian Film Revenue from US Market
India's film industry, particularly Bollywood, Tollywood, and other regional cinemas, earns approximately $100 to $150 million annually from the US market. This comes from box office collections as well as digital, satellite, and other distribution rights.
The tariff would effectively double the cost of Indian movies shown in US theaters, potentially turning a $20 ticket into a $40 ticket, which could drastically reduce audience footfall and revenue.
Effect on Indian Diaspora and Cinema Consumption
The Indian diaspora in the US is a major audience for Indian language films like Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Punjabi, and others. With increased ticket and subscription prices due to the tariff, consumption of Indian films in the US would become more expensive, likely lowering demand among diaspora viewers. This includes theatrical viewing, digital streaming, and satellite TV content.
Impact on Indian Animation and VFX Services
Apart from theatrical films, Indian studios provide significant animation and visual effects (VFX) services for Hollywood productions. The tariff is expected to threaten this outsourcing business, which supports major Hollywood studios such as Disney and Pixar.
This could hurt the growing Indian animation and VFX sector, projected to reach $2.2 billion by 2026.
Broader Implications
The tariff disrupts the global nature of film production, where work is spread across countries.
Higher costs may lead to fewer Indian films being screened in the US.
Streaming platforms may reduce licensing of Indian films due to increased tariffs.
There could be retaliatory tariffs from other countries, affecting Hollywood’s global revenue as well.
The move is politically driven but poses a real threat to India’s cinema revenue and global ambitions.
In summary, the 100% US tariff on movies made outside the US risks major financial and distribution setbacks for India's film industry, impacting revenues, audience access, and the allied animation and VFX sectors tied to Hollywood.
IIP grow 4% in August
India's Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grew by 4% in August 2025, primarily driven by strong performances in the mining and electricity sectors. While the 4% growth rate is slightly lower than the 4.3% recorded in July, it represents a rebound from flat growth in August 2024.
About Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is an economic indicator in India used to measure short-term changes in the volume of production across various industrial products.
Compiled and published monthly by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), it offers a single figure to represent the overall level of industrial activity.
Key features of the IIP include its base year, currently 2011–2012, which is periodically updated.
The index tracks growth in three main sectors: Manufacturing (77.63% weight), Mining (14.37% weight), and Electricity (7.99% weight). Additionally, it provides data based on the usage of goods, such as primary, capital, and consumer goods.
A significant portion of the IIP is represented by eight core industries (coal, electricity, crude oil, cement, natural gas, steel, refinery products, and fertilizers), which constitute about 40.27% of the total weight.
The IIP is important for government and financial experts as it informs policymaking by agencies like the Ministry of Finance and the Reserve Bank of India, contributes to GDP calculations, and is used by businesses for analysis and forecasting.
Recent changes to the IIP in April 2025 by MoSPI have shortened the release schedule to the 28th of every month and eliminated the second revision, with quick estimates now having only one revision the following month.
Sectoral performance
Mining: The mining sector saw significant expansion, growing by 6% in August 2025 after contracting by 7.2% in July. This was the first year-on-year growth for the sector in four months.
Electricity: Power generation also picked up, with a 4.1% increase in output compared to a 3.7% rise in July.
Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector, which holds the largest weight in the IIP, moderated to 3.8% growth in August, down from 6% in July.
Leading performers: Industries with strong growth included basic metals (12.2%), motor vehicles and trailers (9.8%), and coke and refined petroleum products (5.4%).
Struggling segments: Some sectors, such as pharmaceuticals (-9.2%), chemicals and chemical products (-1.9%), and rubber and plastics (-3.7%), saw output contract.
Use-based classification
A use-based analysis reveals mixed results for consumer goods, while infrastructure goods showed strong momentum.
Infrastructure/construction goods: This category experienced double-digit growth of 10.6% in August, suggesting healthy investment and construction activity.
Capital goods: Output for capital goods expanded by 4.4%.
Consumer durables: Growth in consumer durables, such as appliances and automobiles, slowed to 3.5% from 7.3% in July.
Consumer non-durables: This segment saw a significant contraction of 6.3% in output during August.
Economic outlook
Analysts suggest that consumer sentiment and spending were likely held back in August ahead of the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms on September 22. With a new two-slab GST structure reducing tax rates on various household items, economists anticipate a boost in consumption and a rebound in industrial production during the festive season in September and October.
Indian Ocean mineral exploration - Carlsberg Ridge
India has secured a contract from the International Seabed Authority (ISA) to explore polymetallic sulphides (PMS) in a 10,000 sq km area of the Carlsberg Ridge in the Indian Ocean.
This exploration is part of India's Deep Ocean Mission and aims to secure resources for clean energy and technology. The country already holds a similar contract for exploration in the Central Indian Ridge.
India's mineral exploration in the Carlsberg Ridge
Contract with ISA: India signed a 15-year agreement with the ISA to explore for PMS in the Carlsberg Ridge.
Polymetallic sulphides (PMS): These mineral deposits are formed near hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor and contain commercially valuable metals.
Minerals: The deposits are rich in metals such as copper, zinc, gold, and silver.
Strategic value: The exploration has strategic importance for India's resource security and its growing "blue economy".
National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR): The Goa-based NCPOR will carry out the exploration, beginning with geophysical and hydrographic surveys in 2026.
First country with two contracts: With this new contract, India is the first country to hold two ISA contracts for PMS exploration, commanding the largest seabed area allocated for this purpose.
Significance of the Carlsberg Ridge
Geological feature: The Carlsberg Ridge is a segment of the mid-ocean ridge system, marking a tectonic plate boundary between the Indian and Somali plates.
Proximity to India: Its location in the north-western Indian Ocean, closer to India than the previous exploration site, enhances its strategic value.
Mineral potential: The ridge hosts hydrothermal vent systems, which are potential hotspots for PMS deposits.
Environmental considerations
Calls for pause on seabed mining: The decision to explore the Carlsberg Ridge is part of a broader, and controversial, trend toward deep-sea mining. Some scientists have called for a pause on such activities, citing concerns about potential irreversible damage to marine ecosystems and biodiversity. India's stance: India has committed to conducting the exploration responsibly, ensuring a balance between resource extraction and environmental protection.
Nobel peace Prize committee
The Nobel Peace Prize committee is the Norwegian Nobel Committee, a five-member group appointed by the Norwegian Parliament. Following the will of Alfred Nobel, this committee is responsible for selecting the laureate who has "done the most or best to advance fellowship among nations, the abolition or reduction of standing armies, and the establishment and promotion of peace congresses".
This committee was established by the Norwegian Storting in 1897 in accordance with the will of Alfred Nobel, who designated that the Peace Prize would be awarded by a Norwegian committee, while other Nobel Prizes are awarded by Swedish committees.
Structure and members
The committee is assisted by the Norwegian Nobel Institute, which serves as its secretariat.
Members are appointed to six-year terms and are eligible for reappointment. While members are chosen by political parties, they are expected to act independently.
The composition of the committee is intended to reflect the relative strengths of the political parties in the Storting (the Norwegian Parliament), but it is a private body.
As of 2025, the committee's chair is Jørgen Watne Frydnes.
Selection process
The committee follows a strict annual timeline to select the Peace Prize laureate:
February 1: The deadline for submitting nominations is January 31st. Any nominations received after this date are considered for the following year.
February–March: The committee reviews all nominations and develops a shortlist of candidates.
March–August: Experts and advisers prepare reports on the shortlisted candidates.
October: After careful deliberation, the committee chooses the laureate by a majority vote, though it strives for a unanimous decision. The decision is final and without appeal.
October 10: The winner of the Nobel Peace Prize is announced.
Secrecy and eligibility
50-year secrecy rule: The names of nominees and any details regarding the committee's evaluations are kept confidential for 50 years.
Who can nominate: Only certain individuals are eligible to submit nominations. These include members of national governments and parliaments, university professors in relevant fields, past Nobel Peace Prize laureates, and current or former members of the Norwegian Nobel Committee.
Public speculation: Any early releases of candidate names in the media are based on speculation or public announcements from nominators, as the committee itself does not confirm them.
Postal ballot
Based on recent announcements by the Election Commission of India (ECI), the latest updates to postal ballot regulations primarily involve a change to the vote-counting process to enhance transparency and address the rise in absentee ballots.
Key changes to vote-counting
Sequential counting requirement: Effective September 25, 2025, the ECI has mandated that the penultimate (second to last) round of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) vote counting can only begin after the counting of all postal ballots at that center is complete.
Reasoning: This change was made to provide greater clarity and transparency in the counting process, as earlier rules allowed EVM counting to proceed independently of postal ballot counting, which could conclude at different times.
Cause for change: The number of postal ballots has substantially increased due to the ECI extending voting facilities to new categories of absentee voters, such as senior citizens aged 85+ and persons with disabilities.
Efficient counting: To prevent delays, Returning Officers have been directed to ensure that sufficient staff and counting tables are available in centers with a high number of postal ballots.
Other related updates
Absentee voters
Essential services: As of April 2024, the postal ballot facility is also available for absentee voters employed in essential services, as defined by the ECI.
Senior citizens and PwD: The facility for home voting via postal ballot for senior citizens above 85 and persons with disabilities was introduced ahead of the 2024 General Elections.
Supreme Court decisions
Validation of ECI relaxation: In June 2024, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging an ECI circular that relaxed norms for postal ballot attestation in Andhra Pradesh during the 2024 elections. The court found no reason to interfere with the ECI's decision.
Court's stance on ballots: The Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and has rejected petitions to revert to paper ballots.
Voting for NRIs
No postal voting from abroad: For the 2024 General Elections, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) were not permitted to vote via postal ballot from abroad.
In-person voting: NRIs who hold Indian citizenship and are registered voters must be physically present at their designated polling station in India on election day to cast their vote.
ETPBS not for NRIs (yet): While the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) is used for service voters, it is not yet implemented for NRIs, though the possibility has been considered.
Tehkhand Waste to Energy Plant Delhi
The Tehkhand Waste to Energy Plant in Delhi was operationalised in January 2023. The 25 MW plant is designed to handle 2,000 tons of municipal solid waste per day.
It is located near the Tehkhand Depot on Maa Anandmai Marg, in the Tughlaqabad area of South Delhi. The facility was established as a joint initiative by JITF Urban Infrastructure Limited (JUIL) and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). Key features and context:
Expansion plans: As of September 2025, there are plans for a ?900 crore expansion to increase the plant's capacity by another 20 MW, for a total of 45 MW.
Environmental monitoring: A report filed in the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal in August 2025 found that Delhi's four waste-to-energy plants, including the one at Tehkhand, were largely compliant with regulatory norms and posed minimal risk to public health and the environment.
Environmental concerns: During the plant's initial setup, residents of nearby areas raised concerns about potential air pollution and noise. The expansion also faced opposition from local residents, though their earlier appeals were reportedly pending in court.
Waste management context: Delhi generates a large amount of municipal solid waste, and the city has turned to waste-to-energy plants as a solution to reduce pressure on overflowing landfills.
