Current Affairs - International

India emerged as the world’s largest rice producer by overtaking China in total output. The country recorded rice production of 150.18 million tonnes, exceeding China’s production of 145.28 million tonnes. This achievement reflects significant progress in the agricultural sector, driven by improved irrigation facilities, adoption of high-yielding crop varieties, and better farming practices. Additional support came from policy initiatives and technological interventions, including the unveiling of numerous improved crop varieties for multiple field crops, strengthening India’s position in global food production and agricultural sustainability.

France is proposing strict regulations to limit social media use for children under 15 unless parents give consent. The plan requires platforms to verify the age of users and block accounts of children without approval, with heavy financial penalties for non-compliance. This initiative addresses concerns about mental health, exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and addictive online behavior among young users. By placing responsibility on social media companies rather than solely on parents, France aims to enforce stronger state-led digital safeguards. The proposal may also influence broader European Union policies on child online safety.

Turkmenistan has introduced a significant economic reform by legalizing cryptocurrency mining and exchanges starting January 2026. The move reflects a cautious shift toward digitalization in one of the world’s most tightly controlled economies. The new law brings virtual assets under civil legislation and establishes a licensing framework regulated by the central bank, ensuring strong state oversight. Although cryptocurrencies will not be treated as legal tender or currency, the reform aims to reduce dependence on natural gas exports and attract technological investment. This development signals limited economic modernization while maintaining strict control over financial and digital activities.

Bulgaria has replaced its national currency, the lev, with the euro, marking its formal entry as the 21st member of the eurozone. This transition reflects decades of economic reforms and alignment with EU standards, despite political instability and public debate over potential price increases and national identity concerns. The adoption facilitates easier trade and investment with other eurozone countries, reduces currency exchange costs, and strengthens financial integration. Preparations included dual pricing in lev and euro, gradual distribution of coins and notes, and a transition period to allow citizens and businesses to adapt to the new currency system.

China has withdrawn a long-standing tax exemption on condoms and contraceptive medicines by imposing a 13% value-added tax starting January 1. This policy shift is part of a broader strategy to address the country’s ongoing demographic challenges, as China recorded population decline for the third consecutive year in 2024. Alongside this measure, the government is introducing fertility-supportive initiatives such as tax-free childcare subsidies and public campaigns encouraging marriage. These combined efforts reflect China’s attempt to reverse declining birth rates and mitigate long-term socio-economic impacts of population contraction.