Current Affairs - International

The United States approved Holtec International to transfer unclassified SMR technology to three Indian private companies under regulation 10CFR810. This move operationalizes the 2008 India-US Civil Nuclear Deal, or 123 Agreement, by allowing private sector involvement in India’s nuclear energy sector. The authorization is valid for ten years and ensures compliance with global non-proliferation norms, as technology use is limited to peaceful civilian purposes under IAEA safeguards. The deal promotes indigenous manufacturing and positions India as a hub for nuclear technology, especially in the Global South. It marks a significant shift from state-controlled to public-private partnerships in nuclear development.

The Ottawa Convention, formally known as the Mine Ban Treaty, was adopted in 1997 during a Diplomatic Conference held in Oslo. The treaty aims to eliminate anti-personnel landmines worldwide by prohibiting their use, production, stockpiling, and transfer. It obligates member states to destroy existing stockpiles within four years and to clear mined areas. The treaty also emphasizes assistance to landmine victims. Though it came into force in 1999, the foundational adoption took place in 1997. Despite its broad global acceptance by 164 countries, some major powers, including the US, Russia, and India, have not joined the agreement.

Singapore's Changi Airport was ranked as the World’s Best Airport in the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2025, held in Madrid. This marks the 13th time it has earned the top spot, showcasing its consistent excellence in passenger experience, innovation, and infrastructure. Changi Airport also received awards for Best Airport Dining, Best Airport Washrooms, and Best Airport in Asia. Renowned for its unique features like the Jewel shopping mall, the world’s largest indoor waterfall, cinemas, gardens, and museums, Changi continues to set global benchmarks for airport design and customer service, affirming Singapore’s leadership in international aviation.

Mauritius has become the first African nation to sign the Country Partnership Framework (CPF) with the International Solar Alliance (ISA), highlighting its commitment to advancing solar energy initiatives. This strategic framework is designed to promote long- and medium-term collaboration between ISA and its member countries, focusing on clean energy deployment and sustainable development. Mauritius is also the fourth country globally to adopt this framework, following Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Cuba. By participating in the CPF, Mauritius aims to strengthen its solar infrastructure and set a benchmark for other African nations in renewable energy progress.

Chile signed multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with India to strengthen cooperation in innovation and entrepreneurship. These agreements particularly focus on emerging sectors such as biotechnology, climate technology, health technology, and education technology (edtech). The collaboration aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, organize joint innovation events, and connect start-up ecosystems across both countries. Chilean President Gabriel Boric's official visit to India included interactions with the local technology community and educational institutions, marking a significant step toward enhancing bilateral ties through innovation-driven initiatives.