Current Affairs - International

The Australian government has proposed legislation aimed at limiting teenagers' access to social media platforms, citing concerns over the negative impacts on mental health, body image issues, and privacy. The law would require platforms to implement robust age verification measures, potentially through ID verification. Stakeholders, including digital literacy advocates and parents, are calling for a comprehensive approach that includes education and parental engagement to mitigate the risks associated with social media use among minors. This move reflects growing global concerns about social media's influence on youth.

Bangladesh is now receiving up to 40 MW of power from Nepal via India's grid, marking a significant milestone in sub-regional energy cooperation. This trilateral power transaction was made possible through a tripartite agreement among NTPC, Nepal Electricity Authority, and Bangladesh Power Development Board, signed in October 2024. The initiative follows commitments made during Nepal's Prime Minister Prachanda's visit to India in 2023, where both sides expressed their commitment to greater cooperation in the energy sector. This development highlights the growing collaboration among South Asian nations to meet their energy needs.

Tulsi Gabbard, a veteran of the US Army National Guard and former Democrat turned Republican, was appointed as Director of National Intelligence by US President Trump. Gabbard, who first gained attention in India after taking oath on the Bhagavad Gita, has had a distinguished career in public service, including serving in the US Congress and running for president in 2020. Her appointment marks a significant shift in her political affiliation, having recently joined the Republican Party and endorsed Trump for a second term.

The 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair is hosting the National Book Trust of India's showcase of a replica of the original handwritten Indian Constitution manuscript. This significant display highlights India's rich constitutional history and promotes cultural exchange. The fair itself is a prominent literary event, featuring over 2,500 publishers, with India being represented by 52 publishers and the UAE leading with 234 publishers. The replica on display is certified by the Lok Sabha Secretariat and is an A3-sized copy of the Constitution of India.

India extended humanitarian aid of 15 tons to flood-hit Nigeria as part of a larger 75-ton relief package. This act underscores India's commitment to supporting its strategic partner in times of crisis. The bilateral relationship between India and Nigeria, established as a strategic partnership in 2007, has been further strengthened through investments exceeding USD 27 billion by over 200 Indian companies in Nigeria. The upcoming visit by the Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria, the first in 17 years, aims to reinforce these ties and address critical bilateral issues.