INDIA

1. New Passport Rules: Children Below 15 to Get Five-Year Validity

Children below 15 years will now receive ordinary passports valid for five years or until they turn 18, whichever comes earlier. The new rule aims to simplify passport validity for minors while allowing their photographs and personal details to be updated more frequently.

2. NSO Releases District-Level Labour Data for the First Time

The National Statistical Office has released district-level labour market indicators for the first time, covering employment, unemployment, labour-force participation and young people not in education, employment or training. The data will help policymakers identify district-specific employment challenges and design targeted interventions.

3. Election Commission Gives Rival TMC Factions Separate Names and Symbols

The Election Commission has allotted separate names and electoral symbols to rival factions of the Trinamool Congress amid an internal party dispute. The decision will allow the two groups to contest elections under distinct identities and symbols following the ongoing organisational conflict.

4. Marathi Film Gondhal Becomes India's Official Entry for Oscars 2027

Marathi film Gondhal, directed by Santosh Davakhar, has been selected as India's official submission for the 99th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. The film was chosen from 33 submissions and explores traditions, social change and human relationships.

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WORLD

5. US-Houthi Secret Talks Raise New Questions Over Saudi and Red Sea Tensions

The United States has reportedly held previously undisclosed talks with Houthi representatives in Oman amid continuing regional tensions. The discussions focused on preventing further escalation around the Red Sea, while Saudi Arabia remains concerned about threats from the Iran-aligned Yemeni group.

6. Iran War Cost Rises to $43.6 Billion as US Military Spending Soars

The Pentagon has told Congress that the cost of the Iran war has reached approximately $43.6 billion. The spending includes military operations and the replacement of weapons and munitions, highlighting the growing financial burden of the conflict on the United States.

7. US Warns Allies of Missile Delays Up to Five Years Amid Stockpile Pressure

The United States has reportedly warned allies that deliveries of some missiles and air-defence systems could face delays of up to five years. Heavy wartime consumption has reduced American stockpiles, forcing Washington to balance domestic requirements, ongoing operations and existing commitments.

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ECONOMY

8. Trump Signs Russia-Iran Sanctions Law, Opening Door to 100% Tariffs

President Donald Trump has signed legislation expanding US sanctions against Russia and Iran, including potential tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian energy. The measure could create additional economic pressure for India because of its significant purchases of Russian crude oil.

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ODISHA

9. Odisha Plans 870-Acre Silicon Valley at Naraj to Build Technology Hub

Odisha has announced plans for an 870-acre Silicon Valley at Naraj near Cuttack, targeting semiconductors, electronics, IT, startups and research. The proposed technology hub is part of the state's effort to diversify beyond traditional industries and attract knowledge-intensive investments.