Current Affairs - International

India signed a landmark agreement with Mauritius to set up a satellite tracking and communication station near Diego Garcia, located in the Chagos Archipelago. This initiative strengthens India’s strategic footprint in the Indian Ocean Region, an area of immense geopolitical significance due to its proximity to critical sea lanes. The station will enable India to monitor satellites and receive data more effectively, bolstering both scientific and defence related capabilities. Partnering with Mauritius, a close maritime ally, further deepens bilateral ties and highlights the growing cooperation between the two nations in space and regional security matters.

India has achieved the 38th position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025, published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This marks a significant improvement from its 48th rank in 2020, showcasing India’s growing focus on research, knowledge outputs, and innovation driven growth. India also holds the top spot among lower middle income economies and in the Central and Southern Asia region. The GII evaluates 139 countries across more than 80 indicators spanning seven pillars, including infrastructure, human capital, institutions, and knowledge outputs. India’s rise demonstrates the success of its innovation ecosystem and its ability to leverage technology for economic development.

Dr. Sima Bahous, a seasoned Jordanian diplomat, has been reappointed as the Executive Director of UN Women for a second term beginning on 11 September 2025 by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. During her first term, she advanced gender equality in global policy, enhanced operational transparency, and strengthened crisis response with a focus on women’s leadership. Her reappointment comes at a critical moment, coinciding with the launch of the UN Women Strategic Plan 2026–2029, which emphasizes eliminating violence against women, boosting economic participation, and embedding gender equality into sustainable development. This ensures continuity and strong leadership in global gender advocacy.

Sabita Bhandari, a senior advocate, has been appointed as the new Attorney General of Nepal, making history as the first woman to hold this prestigious position. Her appointment was made by President Ramchandra Paudel based on the recommendation of Prime Minister Sushila Karki. She succeeds Ramesh Badal in this vital constitutional role. This development is significant not only for Nepal’s judiciary but also for gender representation in the country’s governance. With its capital in Kathmandu, Nepal continues to evolve in terms of inclusivity and leadership representation, marking a milestone in its political and legal landscape.

The Freedom Edge military exercise, conducted from September 15–19, 2025, was held near Jeju Island, South Korea. This trilateral exercise involved the United States, South Korea, and Japan, focusing on missile defence, air and naval operations, cyber coordination, and medical evacuation drills. It represents the most advanced trilateral drill to date and highlights growing defence cooperation between the three allies in response to North Korea’s nuclear and missile advancements. While the exercise emphasised deterrence, Pyongyang condemned it as a provocation, warning of consequences. The event also aligns with commitments made at the Camp David summit to strengthen trilateral security.