5 Assembly elections to be held next year

Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal are due in 2026.

Sources suggest that the Afghan delegation along with their Foreign Minister has been apprised of the protocols of a ‘Dignitary in Conflict’ on Indian soil
 

Intense clashes have erupted along the Afghanistan-Pakistan Durand Line, sharply escalating regional tension and drawing a rapid diplomatic response in India. Sources confirm that as the fighting intensified, the Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was briefed by top officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi on established diplomatic protocols and adapted strategies should the conflict deteriorate further. This high-security briefing aimed to ensure awareness among senior ministers and bureaucrats regarding best practices and the nuances of hosting a foreign dignitary, particularly under conflict conditions on Indian soil.

India, while not officially recognizing the Taliban government, has increasingly engaged with Afghan officials amidst regional turmoil. New Delhi faces complex protocol challenges, notably regarding official flag displays and diplomatic representation, as it balances legitimacy concerns with practical engagement needs. Ministry sources indicate that contingency plans and standard operating procedures are being communicated across key ministries—External Affairs, Home, Defence—and intelligence agencies to anticipate diplomatic and security ramifications. Officials are being sensitised to the specifics of protocols for foreign dignitaries, with particular attention given to security, confidentiality, and symbolic gestures during periods of border conflict.
This proactive approach reflects India’s intent to maintain diplomatic stability, uphold protocol integrity, and safeguard national interests while advancing constructive engagement in a rapidly shifting security environment.

Speculation mounts on Trump’s H-1B curbs

Whispers of a NATO-style Arab-Muslim defense pact, initiated by Saudi Arabia, gaining traction post-October 3, 2025, meetings; could include joint drone walls against threats. In US politics, speculation mounts on Trump’s H-1B curbs shifting $100B+ work to India by 2026, boosting GCCs but sparking short-term layoffs.

Former IAS officer joins Congress (UPDATED)

Kannan Gopinathan, former IAS officer who resigned from civil services after levelling criticisms against the Central Government has joined the Congress. He is 2012 batch former IAS officer.