INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Russia Officially Recognises Taliban Government in Afghanistan – A Landmark Move

• Russia became the first country to formally recognise the Taliban regime in Afghanistan since its 2021 takeover.

• This recognition followed Russia’s decision in April 2025 to remove the Taliban from its list of banned organisations.

• On July 3, Russia accepted the diplomatic credentials of Afghanistan’s new ambassador, Gul Hassan Hassan.

• The move aims to strengthen future cooperation and bilateral relations between the two nations.

• Afghanistan’s Taliban-led Foreign Ministry called the decision historic and encouraged other nations to follow suit.

• Prior to this, the Taliban had limited diplomatic engagement with countries like China and the UAE.

• Despite initial promises of reform, the Taliban imposed harsh restrictions on women’s rights and education after seizing power.

• Russia’s decision was guided by President Putin and Foreign Minister Lavrov, according to Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov.

PM Modi's Historic Address to Ghana’s Parliament: A Boost to India-Africa Ties

• Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to speak at Ghana’s Parliament during his visit to Accra.

• He emphasized India’s democratic values and its role in shaping inclusive global leadership.

• Modi called for a stronger voice for the Global South in international decision-making.

• He reflected on the shared colonial past of India and Ghana, quoting Dr. Kwame Nkrumah on unity.

• The Prime Minister stressed the impact of technology and demography on the changing world order.

• He highlighted India’s G20 presidency and welcomed the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent member.

• Modi expressed deep appreciation to President Mahama and the people of Ghana for their warmth.

• He backed the formation of the Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society to deepen ties.

SUMMIT AND CONFERENCE

OPCW’s 23rd Asia Regional Meeting Held in New Delhi to Boost Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation

• The OPCW conducted its 23rd Regional Meeting for Asian member states from July 1–3, 2025, in New Delhi.

• This global event brought together 38 representatives from 24 Asian nations, including Japan, China, Australia, and South Korea.

• India, a founding member of the Chemical Weapons Convention, hosted the event through its National Authority (NACWC).

• In 2024, India mentored Kenya's national authority under OPCW’s mentorship initiative to improve compliance capacities.

• The Indian Chemical Council became the first industry body worldwide to receive the 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award for promoting chemical safety.

• The meeting focused on enhancing legal frameworks, chemical safety practices, and stakeholder collaboration across Asia.

• Participants discussed integrating artificial intelligence to support better implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

• The gathering served as a vital platform for sharing strategies, strengthening partnerships, and promoting regional coordination.

NATIONAL NEWS

PM Modi’s Cultural Diplomacy in Trinidad & Tobago: Strengthening India-Caribbean Ties

• Prime Minister Modi gifted a replica of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir and sacred water from the Saryu River and Mahakumbh to his Trinidadian counterpart.

• The gesture symbolized India’s deep spiritual and cultural connection with Trinidad & Tobago.

• Traditional Indian-style dinner was served on Sohari leaves, reflecting local Indian heritage.

• PM Modi praised shared values and traditions rooted in Indian ancestry across the Caribbean nation.

• He met Rana Mohip, known for singing Vaishnava Jana To during Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary events.

• Modi’s visit showcased India’s commitment to preserving historical and cultural bonds with the diaspora.

• This was his second Caribbean visit in eight months, reaffirming strong engagement with CARICOM countries.

• The earlier trip to Guyana in November 2024 highlighted India’s growing presence and partnership in the region.

SPORTS

Khelo India Water Sports Festival Set to Make Waves in Srinagar

• Dal Lake in Srinagar will host the first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival from August 21–23, 2025.

• Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya officially announced the launch of this exciting national event.

• The festival adds momentum to the expanding Khelo India initiative, following the Beach Games in Diu earlier this year.

• Over 400 athletes from all 36 States and Union Territories are expected to participate.

• Events will span five thrilling disciplines—kayaking, canoeing, rowing, water skiing, shikara racing, and dragon boat racing.

• Participants will be chosen by National Federations based on prior national-level performance or technical merit.

• India’s growing strength in Asian water sports was highlighted by the Union Minister during the announcement.

• This marks the fifth major Khelo India event in 2025, joining the Winter, Para, Youth, and Beach Games held across the country.

STATE NEWS

Gujarat Joins the Crore Club of Stock Market Investors

• Gujarat has become India’s third state to surpass one crore registered stock market investors, as per NSE data.

• Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh are the only other states with over one crore investors, jointly making up 36% of the national investor base.

• India’s total investor count reached 11.5 crores by May 2025, with over 11 lakh new registrations in that month alone.

• This surge followed a four-month slump in fresh investor sign-ups.

• Regionally, North India leads with 4.2 crore investors, followed by West (3.5 cr), South (2.4 cr), and East (1.4 cr).

• North and East India saw the fastest annual growth, with 24% and 23% increases, respectively.

• South India grew its base by 22%, while West India saw a 17% year-on-year rise in investor numbers.

• India hit the 9 crore mark in February 2024, reaching 11 crores by January 2025, though monthly growth has slowed since February this year.