Union Home Minister Amit Shah presided over the Border Security Force’s (BSF) Diamond Jubilee and 61st Raising Day parade at its Haripar camp in Bhuj, Gujarat. He paid tribute to the force’s jawans and praised their sacrifices in securing India’s borders. Shah referenced the 1971 India‑Pakistan war and the swift reconstruction of Bhuj airstrip by local women, highlighting resilience and unity. He also announced a five‑year plan to modernise the BSF, including bolstering its e‑border capability. (PC: Instagram)

Former CIA officer John Kiriakou disclosed that Pakistan’s PTI, led by Imran Khan, sent him a formal letter demanding an apology after he stated that India would decisively win a conventional war against Pakistan. Kiriakou responded sharply, saying he would use their apology letter “as toilet paper to wipe my a**,” refusing to retract his statement. He emphasized that Pakistan lacks the military numbers and capacity to succeed in a ground war, highlighting India’s superior capabilities. The incident underscores tensions over public commentary on military affairs and Pakistan’s sensitivity to perceived criticism. (PC: X) 

A sudden fire broke out at the “Blue Zone” pavilion of the COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, causing immediate evacuation of delegates and disrupting key negotiations. Around 13 people suffered minor smoke inhalation, and emergency teams quickly brought the fire under control within six minutes. The blaze temporarily halted discussions on critical climate issues, including fossil fuel phase-out, emissions targets, and financing for vulnerable nations. Authorities are investigating the cause, while safety inspections are underway before talks can resume. The incident underscores the unpredictable challenges faced even at high-profile international environmental events. 

India captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the second and final Test against South Africa due to a neck injury sustained during the first match. The Test, scheduled at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, will see wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant take over as captain, marking a significant leadership change. The Indian team is also exploring options for a replacement batter, with Nitish Kumar Reddy reportedly in consideration. Gill’s absence poses a challenge for India’s batting lineup, while Pant’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the team through the decisive match. (PC: Reuters)

A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck near Narsingdi in Bangladesh at around 10:08 a.m. IST, registering at just 14 km from the town. Strong tremors were felt in Kolkata and neighbouring West Bengal districts, prompting residents to rush out of offices and homes in alarm. At least six people were killed and several injured in Bangladesh, though no major damage or casualties have been reported in India so far. Authorities remain vigilant to monitor for potential after‑shocks and structural impact.

Shubhanshu Shukla — India’s astronaut and IAF Group Captain — opened his session at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025 with a quip: “Getting here from space was easier than coming from Marathahalli to BIEC.” His remark drew laughs and highlighted Bengaluru’s severe traffic congestion, resonating with its tech‑city audience. The event, held at the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre, brought together innovators and policy‑makers across deep tech, start‑ups and aerospace. (PC: X)

Residents in Kolkata and nearby districts were jolted by intense seismic tremors today, forcing many to flee offices and homes onto the streets in alarm. European‑Mediterranean Seismological Centre registered the quake as originating in neighbouring Bangladesh, though its exact magnitude and depth remain unconfirmed. No immediate reports of structural damage or injuries have surfaced, but social-media users described the shake as unusually long and powerful. Authorities continue to monitor the situation for potential after-effects.

The US Treasury and State Departments have sanctioned several India-based companies and nationals accused of participating in Iranian petroleum and petrochemical sales. Entities like RN Ship Management Pvt Ltd and TR6 Petro India LLP are alleged to have helped transport or trade Iranian-origin petroleum products. The US claims proceeds from these trades may be financing Tehran’s “malign activities” including support for proxy groups. Under the sanctions, the affected Indian firms face asset freezes and restrictions on dealings with US persons. (PC: Reuters)

Over ten legislators loyal to D. K. Shivakumar have travelled to Delhi to press the Indian National Congress high command to honour an alleged 2023 promise that he would become Chief Minister midway through the current term. This move injects fresh tension into the state government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who cancelled a two-day tour and returned to Bengaluru amid the internal power struggle. The party has not officially confirmed any rotational CM formula, while Shivakumar himself distanced from the controversy and said he will serve as long as the party wants him. (PC: X)

A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck near Narsingdi, Bangladesh at around 10:08 a.m. IST on Friday, registering just 14 km west-south-west of the town. The quake was keenly felt in Kolkata and adjacent regions in West Bengal, with residents reporting visible swaying of fans and wall-hangings and many evacuating offices and homes. Despite the strong sensations and widespread concern, there have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties and authorities are monitoring for any after-effects. (