Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused Afghanistan of fighting India's proxy war, alleging decisions are made in New Delhi, not Kabul. He claimed Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi made "plans" during his recent six-day India visit, officially focused on trade relations. This follows a 48-hour ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan after intense cross-border clashes killed at least 58 Pakistani soldiers and numerous civilians. The truce began Wednesday evening, with both governments claiming the other requested it. Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of backing Islamic State's Khorasan wing, while Pakistan blames Kabul for harboring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Recent violence followed Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul targeting TTP leaders, prompting Afghan retaliation along the Durand Line.

Reserve Bank of India Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated US tariff measures under President Trump don't significantly threaten India's economy, citing its domestic-driven resilience. Speaking at IMF-World Bank Fall Meetings in Washington, Malhotra acknowledged unprecedented global uncertainties but emphasized India's strong macroeconomic fundamentals through prudent policies. He expressed cautious optimism about trade negotiations with Washington. Addressing rupee volatility amid tariff announcements, Malhotra reiterated RBI's market-driven approach while ensuring orderly movements and curbing abnormal fluctuations. The RBI prevented rupee from breaching its September 30 record low of 88.80. MPC unanimously maintained the repo rate at 5.5 percent despite softer inflation outlook, with Malhotra stating it's not the opportune time for rate cuts. (PC: Mint)

Bollywood star Deepika Padukone has become the new voice of Meta AI, marking a historic collaboration as one of the first Indian celebrities to voice an AI assistant. Available across six countries including India, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, the feature allows users to chat with her voice in English. Deepika announced the partnership on Instagram, calling it "pretty cool" and encouraging followers to try the experience. The collaboration brings a familiar, friendly tone to Meta's expanding digital platform. On the film front, Deepika was last seen in 'Kalki 2898 AD' and will next appear in 'King' alongside Shah Rukh Khan, plus a pan-India project with Atlee and Allu Arjun. (PC: X)

Nearly 6,000 students across Malaysia have fallen ill with influenza-like symptoms, forcing authorities to close schools amid investigations into the outbreak's cause. Health officials are working to determine whether the widespread illness is linked to COVID-19 or another virus as they monitor the rapidly evolving situation. The scale of the outbreak has raised concerns about potential viral transmission within educational institutions, prompting swift containment measures. Authorities are conducting thorough investigations to identify the pathogen responsible for the symptoms affecting thousands of students nationwide. Officials emphasized close monitoring protocols to prevent further spread while schools remain shuttered. The incident highlights ongoing public health challenges as authorities balance educational continuity with student safety during viral outbreaks. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that Israeli forces could resume military operations in Gaza if Hamas refuses to disarm, stating Israel would return "as soon as I say the word." In a CNN phone interview, Trump emphasized the fragile ceasefire depends entirely on Hamas's compliance with disarmament terms. He revealed Israel's eagerness to continue military action, saying, "If Israel could go in and knock the crap out of them, they'd do that." Trump disclosed tensions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating "I had it out with Bibi" while pressing for restraint. The President portrayed himself as the key restraining force, repeatedly saying he "had to hold them back" from resuming the Gaza campaign. (PC: X)

Brazil and India are strengthening ties to counter Trump's trade wars, with officials and executives meeting in New Delhi this week to triple their $12 billion partnership. Both nations face harsh 50% tariffs threatening economic growth. Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin leads a delegation exploring partnerships in agribusiness, biofuels, and defense. Trump's policies have pushed global realignments, including India-China thaw and Mercosur-EU deals. While Modi initially hesitated attending BRICS summit fearing US backlash, Lula's persuasion succeeded. India sends nearly one-fifth exports to America; Brazil sends 12%. Despite deepening cooperation, both remain dependent on US markets, selling similar products and relying heavily on China, limiting their ability to fully pivot away.

US President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop purchasing Russian oil, calling it "a big step" toward isolating Moscow over Ukraine. Trump expressed dissatisfaction with India's Russian crude imports, which he believes fund Putin's war effort. New Delhi hasn't confirmed this claim. Trump praised Modi as "a great man" and friend, noting his long tenure and their strong relationship. India has defended Russian oil purchases as vital for energy security and economic stability, with Russian crude accounting for nearly one-third of total imports. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar previously criticized Western nations for questioning India's business decisions while themselves purchasing Indian refined products.

Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed on Wednesday to a 48-hour ceasefire after deadly clashes along their shared border. Dozens of people were killed, and many were wounded. The ceasefire started at 6 pm PKT (6:30 pm IST). Pakistan said it had killed Afghan soldiers and militants and destroyed tanks in overnight operations. Afghanistan has not confirmed Pakistan’s claim or commented on the ceasefire. The Taliban said Pakistan destroyed a border outpost and a tank was captured. Tensions have risen as terrorist groups, including ISIS, try to expand. India’s restored ties with Afghanistan also concern Pakistan. (PC: NDTV)

The father of a 23-year-old Durgapur medical student, who alleged rape, apologised to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday. He described her as a “mother-like figure” and asked her to help his daughter get justice. The apology comes two days after he criticised the state, saying it was under “Aurangzeb’s rule.” He said he will take his daughter back to Odisha once she is fit and demanded a CBI investigation into the case. Police have arrested six people, including the victim’s male friend, in connection with the assault, which has sparked major political debates in the state. (PC: HT)

Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan rose after Pakistani airstrikes killed 15 civilians. In a counterattack, the Taliban seized Pakistani border outposts and displayed captured soldiers’ trousers and weapons in public. Videos of Taliban fighters on a captured Pakistani tank went viral. Many Afghans said they support the Taliban fighters and are ready to help against Pakistan. The conflict is linked to the disputed Durand Line border. Both sides exchanged deadly fire over the weekend, with heavy casualties reported. A fragile 48-hour ceasefire is in place, but tensions remain high. (PC: India Today)