Current Affairs - International

India extended humanitarian aid to Cuba following the devastating impact of Hurricane Rafael, which was the strongest November tropical cyclone in the Gulf of Mexico. Cuba, an island nation in North America, is situated where the northern Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean converge. The aid highlights India’s commitment to supporting nations in times of natural disasters, fostering international solidarity. The capital of Cuba is Havana.

India’s National Highway network has achieved a remarkable 60% growth over the past decade, expanding from 91,287 km in 2014 to 146,195 km in 2024. This makes it the second-largest highway network globally. Additionally, initiatives like Bharatmala Pariyojana and enhanced port connectivity projects further highlight India’s commitment to developing infrastructure and boosting trade, while road safety measures are being implemented to address accident-prone areas.

Los Angeles declared an emergency after wildfires rapidly spread across 3,000 acres, forcing the evacuation of 1 lakh residents and endangering more than 13,000 structures. Iconic landmarks such as NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab were also at risk. Despite the efforts of over 1,400 firefighters, strong winds intensified the fire's spread, making containment challenging, especially near high-profile areas like Malibu and Santa Monica.

The United Kingdom unveiled a pioneering sanctions regime aimed at addressing illegal migration and organised immigration crime. The initiative seeks to disrupt the financial networks of smugglers and improve border security under the Labour government’s Plan for Change, led by PM Keir Starmer. The measures also emphasize international collaboration and the use of enhanced crime prevention orders to tackle this global challenge effectively.

India and the United States have collaborated to co-produce sonobuoys, advanced devices designed for underwater detection and monitoring. This partnership involves Bharat Dynamics Limited and Ultra Maritime, showcasing a significant step in enhancing anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The project underlines the strengthening of defence ties between India and the US, aiming to bolster maritime security.