A recent U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency report reveals Pakistan is actively modernizing its nuclear arsenal, heavily relying on China for economic and military support. China remains Pakistan's primary military supplier, providing materials and technology for weapons of mass destruction, often through intermediaries in Hong Kong, Singapore, Turkey, and the UAE. Despite internal tensions, including terrorist attacks on Chinese nationals in Pakistan, the alliance persists. Pakistan continues to view India as an existential threat, prioritizing cross-border skirmishes and nuclear modernization. The report underscores Pakistan's procurement of WMD-applicable goods from foreign suppliers, highlighting concerns over regional stability and the security of nuclear materials and command structures. (PC: Sputnik India & Getty Images)

On May 21, 2025, India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations hosted a special event titled "Tea for Livelihoods, Tea for SDGs" at the UN Headquarters in New York to commemorate International Tea Day. Ambassador P. Harish highlighted tea's role in promoting rural employment, women's empowerment, and sustainable development. The event featured insights from representatives of countries like Vietnam, Kenya, Sri Lanka, and China, emphasizing tea's contribution to Agenda 2030. Attendees enjoyed a curated tasting of Indian teas, including Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiri, and Masala Chai, celebrating India's rich tea heritage.  (PC: New India Abroad)

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ram Chander Jangra has stirred national outrage after blaming the victims of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack—particularly women—for not resisting the assailants. Speaking at a public event in Bhiwani, Haryana, Jangra stated that the victims should have “fought back” and claimed that the women lacked the courage of historical warriors like the Rani of Jhansi. His remarks were widely condemned as insensitive and victim-blaming. The attack, which killed 26 tourists in Baisaran Valley, has reignited debates on public safety and political accountability. (PC: X)

During an international outreach, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor declared that India has established a new norm following the Pahalgam terror attack, asserting that any cross-border aggression from Pakistan will incur consequences. Speaking in New York, he emphasized that India’s response to terrorism is measured but resolute: “We didn't want to start anything... If you stop, we stop.” Tharoor leads a multi-party delegation visiting Guyana, Panama, Colombia, Brazil, and the US to highlight India's firm stance against terrorism and expose Pakistan’s involvement in cross-border terror activities. He reiterated that India is not interested in warfare but will respond decisively to protect its citizens. (PC: The Daily Star & Hindustan Times)

Elon Musk has announced his decision to step away from political involvement to refocus on his core companies: Tesla, SpaceX, X (formerly Twitter), and xAI. This comes after criticism over his political activities and concerns about their impact on his businesses. Musk will step down from his role at the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He plans to return to a hands-on leadership style, even sleeping in offices and factories. With Tesla facing declining sales and revenue, Musk aims to re-center his energy on innovation and operational excellence. (PC: The Economic Times)    

The UK is set for a wet Bank Holiday weekend as the Met Office forecasts heavy rain and cooler temperatures following a prolonged dry spell. Rain is expected to spread across the country from Friday night, ending a 30-day streak of dryness in some areas. Temperatures will drop to around average for this time of year, with wind making conditions feel cooler. The change in weather comes after record-breaking sunny spells in recent months. Despite the rain, the Met Office describes it as "welcome," suggesting it will benefit gardens and agriculture. The unsettled weather is expected to continue into next week. (PC: PA)

Indian revolutionary Rash Behari Bose, after fleeing to Japan in 1915, found refuge with the Soma family in Tokyo's Shinjuku district. There, he introduced them to Indian curry, which became a family favorite. In 1918, Bose married the Somas' daughter, Toshiko. Following her untimely death in 1925, Bose collaborated with his father-in-law to open a restaurant atop their bakery in 1927, serving 'Indo Karii'—an authentic Indian curry. This dish, supervised by Bose, aimed to present Indian cuisine without Western influence and became a sensation in Japan. Today, Nakamuraya's curry remains a testament to Bose's legacy, intertwining culinary art with his revolutionary spirit. (PC: The Better India)

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism of Harvard University, defending his administration's attempt to block the institution from enrolling international students. Trump highlighted that nearly 31% of Harvard's students are from foreign countries, accusing the university of withholding information about these students despite repeated requests. He questioned why these countries, some allegedly unfriendly to the U.S., contribute nothing toward their students' education. Although a judge has temporarily suspended the administration's action, Trump insists on obtaining the names and countries of origin of these students, arguing it's reasonable given the federal funding Harvard receives. He criticized Harvard for not being transparent and suggested the university should utilize its $52 million endowment instead of relying on federal grants. (PC: Business Standard)

On Sunday, May 25, 2025, a violent brawl involving ten individuals erupted at Northland Shopping Centre in Preston, Melbourne, prompting a lockdown. Some participants were reportedly armed with knives, and a widely circulated photo showed a suspect wielding a machete. Four people were injured, including one man hospitalized with serious injuries, now in stable condition. Authorities believe the attack was targeted, involving individuals known to each other. Shoppers were confined inside stores amid the chaos, and unverified images and videos of the incident spread on social media. Police have arrested two individuals connected to the attack, who are currently being questioned. The incident follows a recent knife attack in Hamburg, Germany, that injured at least 17 people. (PC: Republic TV & ABC)

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar abruptly exited a high-profile NDA meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, intensifying speculation about internal discord within the alliance ahead of the state elections. The meeting, aimed at showcasing NDA unity and discussing key issues like Operation Sindoor and caste-based census, saw the presence of top BJP leaders and NDA chief ministers. Kumar's sudden departure, following his absence from the previous day's NITI Aayog meeting, has fueled rumors of a rift within the NDA. While some sources suggest health reasons for his exit, the lack of an official explanation has led to widespread political conjecture about the stability of the alliance in Bihar. (PC: Free Press Journal)