On October 22, 2025, Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen stated that the Indian Embassy in Kabul would play a constructive role in promoting regional peace. This statement follows India's recent decision to elevate its diplomatic mission in Afghanistan to full embassy status, reflecting a commitment to engage with the Taliban-led administration. Shaheen emphasized that the Indian mission's presence would support Afghanistan's stability and development. While India has not officially recognized the Taliban government, this move signifies a pragmatic approach to fostering bilateral cooperation and addressing mutual concerns in the region. (PC: The Hindu)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to skip traveling to Kuala Lumpur for the ASEAN Summit scheduled from October 26 to 28 due to pressing domestic commitments, including upcoming state elections and festive events. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the summit in person, highlighting New Delhi’s continued engagement with Southeast Asian partners under the Act East Policy. Modi is likely to join select sessions virtually, reinforcing India’s strategic partnership with ASEAN on trade, security, and regional stability amid growing Indo-Pacific cooperation and geopolitical challenges. (PC: ANI)

President Trump announced new U.S. sanctions targeting Russia’s leading oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil, citing Moscow’s refusal to end the war in Ukraine. Simultaneously, Trump reiterated that he spoke with India’s Narendra Modi, who reportedly pledged that India will “not buy much oil” from Russia—though Indian officials denied any such call. The sanctions mark a major shift in U.S. policy: the Treasury declared readiness to take further action and urged allies to join in isolating Russia economically. (PC: File)

The recent daylight heist at Paris's Louvre Museum, where thieves made off with jewels valued at €88 million, has captivated global attention. The audacity and precision of the robbery have led social media users to reminisce about Bollywood's iconic action franchise, 'Dhoom'. Many online commentators suggest that Hrithik Roshan, known for his role as Aryan/Mr. A in 'Dhoom 2', would be the perfect fit to portray a mastermind thief in a potential 'Dhoom 4'. The incident has reignited discussions about the franchise's future and the possibility of incorporating real-life inspirations into cinematic plots. (PC: X)  

New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Diwali events in Queens, saying he grew up in an India that celebrated pluralism. Visiting several Hindu temples, Mamdani said Modi and the BJP promote a vision that “only has room for certain kinds of Indians.” He added that his criticism comes from his belief in equality and inclusion. Mamdani said he would represent all New Yorkers, even those who disagree with him. His comments have drawn sharp reactions from Indian leaders and Hindu Americans, some accusing him of being “anti-Indian” and spreading false claims. (PC: X)

India has shared the first photos of Mehul Choksi’s cell in Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail with Belgian authorities. Choksi will stay in Barrack No 12, a 46-square-metre barrack with two rooms and private toilets. He will only leave for medical visits or court hearings. The move is part of India’s effort to counter Choksi’s claims of poor prison conditions. Belgian court rejected his extradition challenges, saying he provided no proof of personal risk or unfair treatment. India assured that Choksi’s health and rights will be protected and that the jail meets international standards.

In a symbolic gesture, the intersection of 114th Street and 101st Avenue in Richmond Hill, Queens — located near the historic Gurdwara Makhan Shah Lubana — has been officially renamed “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg Way” in honour of the ninth Sikh Guru. Approved by the New York City Council earlier this year, the naming was unveiled in a renaming ceremony held on the eve of Diwali, celebrating the Guru’s message of sacrifice, compassion and justice. According to Council member Lynn Schulman, the act recognises the vibrant Sikh-American presence in the area and underscores New York’s multicultural identity. 

Francesca Orsini, a renowned Hindi scholar and Professor Emerita at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, was denied entry into India on October 20, 2025. Despite holding a valid five-year tourist visa, she was deported from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport to Hong Kong. Indian authorities cited previous visa violations as the reason for her blacklisting since March 2025. Orsini, who had arrived from Hong Kong after attending an academic conference in China, had planned to visit friends in India. Her deportation has sparked criticism from academics, including historians Ramachandra Guha and Mukul Kesavan, who condemned the move as an attack on scholarly freedom. (PC: X)

India and the United States are close to finalising a long-pending trade deal that could cut US tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 15–16%, according to a Mint report. The agreement may be announced at the ASEAN Summit during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump. Talks cover energy and agriculture, with India expected to reduce Russian oil imports and open its market to more US corn and soymeal. In return, Washington may offer energy trade concessions. Trump said he spoke to Modi about trade and energy, calling the discussion “very positive.” (PC: HT)

US President Donald Trump celebrated Diwali at the White House with Indian-American officials, lighting a traditional lamp and praising the festival’s message of “light over darkness.” Trump said he spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi about trade and regional peace, calling Modi “a great friend.” He also claimed India would reduce its Russian oil imports, though India has denied such talks. Trump defended his tariffs on Indian goods, saying they strengthen the US economy and prevent wars. The Indian government has rejected his claim of brokering peace between India and Pakistan, calling it a bilateral understanding.