Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a ceremonial 21-gun salute at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations, with President Mohamed Muizzu by his side. The event marked a symbolic reset in India-Maldives relations, following months of diplomatic strain. Modi attended as Guest of Honour, becoming the first foreign head of government hosted by Muizzu since his election. The visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations. Modi’s presence underscores India’s Neighbourhood First policy and strategic outreach in the Indian Ocean. The warm reception, including patriotic chants and traditional performances, signals a renewed chapter in bilateral cooperation and regional diplomacy.

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has warned that escalating border clashes with Cambodia could lead to war. The conflict, now in its second day, has displaced over 130,000 people and claimed at least 15 lives. Thailand has instructed its military to act immediately if necessary, while Cambodia has requested an emergency UN Security Council meeting. Both nations continue to exchange deadly strikes, with artillery and airstrikes reported near disputed areas including ancient temples. Despite diplomatic efforts, tensions remain high. Thailand insists the situation is still limited to clashes, but warns of further escalation. The international community has expressed concern, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent a full-blown regional crisis. (PC: China Daily & Nikkei Asia)

In a sweeping crackdown, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has banned 25 OTT platforms and websites including ALTT, ULLU, and Desiflix for streaming obscene and sexually explicit content. The move follows repeated violations of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986. Despite prior warnings, these platforms continued to publish objectionable material, prompting the government to direct ISPs to block access nationwide. The decision was made in consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs, MeitY, and child rights bodies. The ban aims to protect minors and uphold digital decency standards. Content from shows like House Arrest had previously triggered legal scrutiny and public outrage. (PC: India Today & News 18)

India has successfully test-fired the UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 from a drone at the National Open Area Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. Conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the flight trials mark a major boost to India’s missile capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement, congratulating DRDO and its industry partners, including DcPPs, MSMEs, and start-ups. The success demonstrates India’s readiness to absorb and produce critical defence technologies. The ULPGM-V3 enhances precision strike capabilities from unmanned aerial vehicles, reducing risk to personnel and expanding strategic flexibility. This milestone aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in defence under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

India’s landmark trade deal with the UK is significant in more ways than one as it sets a precedent for future negotiations, including with the US. The agreement offers duty-free access for 99% of Indian exports and slashes tariffs on UK goods like cars, whisky, and electronics. It includes chapters on gender equality, government procurement, and digital trade. India’s concessions in the auto sector mark a policy shift, while the pact boosts labor-intensive exports and services. With the August 1 deadline looming for US reciprocal tariffs, the UK deal provides strategic cues for India’s stance in upcoming talks. The pact is expected to double India-UK trade to $112 billion by 2030. (PC: Outlook India & News18)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially surpassed Indira Gandhi to become India’s second-longest serving Prime Minister in a single uninterrupted term. As of July 25, 2025, Modi has completed 4,078 consecutive days in office, overtaking Gandhi’s 4,077-day record from 1966 to 1977. This milestone coincides with Modi’s visit to the Maldives for its Independence Day celebrations. BJP leaders hailed the achievement, highlighting Modi’s nearly 24-year journey in elected office, including his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister. He is the first PM born after Independence, the longest-serving non-Congress PM, and the only leader to win six consecutive elections. Modi now trails only Jawaharlal Nehru, who served for 16 years and 286 days. (PC: The Express Tribune & Indian National Congress)

Thailand has rejected international mediation to end its escalating border conflict with Cambodia, insisting on bilateral talks only. The dispute, centered around the Preah Vihear temple area, has led to the worst fighting in over a decade, with 16 deaths—mostly Thai civilians—and over 60,000 displaced. Artillery exchanges continue for a second day, with both sides blaming each other for initiating hostilities. Offers from the U.S., China, and Malaysia (ASEAN chair) were declined by Bangkok, which demands Cambodia cease attacks first. Cambodia’s PM Hun Manet has appealed to the UN Security Council, calling Thailand’s actions “unprovoked aggression.” ASEAN’s diplomatic limitations are exposed as tensions threaten broader regional instability. (PC: Reuters)

Thailand and Cambodia are locked in their worst border conflict in over a decade, centered on the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear Temple. Despite a 1962 ICJ ruling granting Cambodia sovereignty, Thailand disputes surrounding land. Recent clashes have killed at least 16, displaced nearly 100,000, and involved artillery, airstrikes, and rocket fire. Cambodia accuses Thailand of bombing near the temple and vows legal action under international law. Tensions reignited after Cambodia filed a new UN complaint over four disputed areas. The conflict underscores unresolved border demarcations and national pride, with both sides reserving military action. ASEAN’s diplomatic limitations are exposed as the sacred site remains a flashpoint of violence and historical contention. (PC: Times Now & X)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives marks a pivotal reset in bilateral ties strained by President Muizzu’s earlier “India Out” stance and pro-China tilt. Modi, attending the 60th Independence Day as Guest of Honour, will meet Muizzu to advance the Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. India is set to launch UPI services and initiate FTA talks. The visit follows India’s $750M currency swap and $50M treasury bill rollover to aid Maldives’ economy. Modi’s outreach underscores India’s Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR vision, reaffirming strategic cooperation despite past tensions. Several MoUs and infrastructure projects are expected to be unveiled during the two-day visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Malé, Maldives, to a grand welcome by President Mohamed Muizzu and senior cabinet members. This marks Modi’s third visit to the Maldives and the first by any foreign head of state under Muizzu’s tenure. Invited as Guest of Honour for the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day on July 26, Modi’s arrival was celebrated with Indian flags, banners, and enthusiastic crowds. The visit symbolizes a diplomatic reset and highlights India’s strategic support in the Indian Ocean. Modi will also inaugurate India-funded development projects and hold bilateral talks to strengthen regional cooperation. The visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations.