INDIA

1. India’s Nuclear Arsenal Rises to 190 Warheads, US Think Tank Estimates
The Federation of American Scientists estimates India possesses about 190 nuclear warheads, up from earlier estimates of 172. The assessment highlights India’s continuing nuclear modernisation, including development of new delivery systems and expansion of its sea-based strategic deterrent capabilities.

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2. ISRO Successfully Tests 200-Tonne Semi-Cryogenic Engine at Full Thrust
ISRO successfully conducted a full-thrust test of its 200-tonne semi-cryogenic engine powerhead at Mahendragiri. The milestone strengthens India’s next-generation propulsion programme and is expected to enhance the payload capability of the LVM3 heavy-lift launch vehicle for future missions.

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WORLD

3. Trump Promises $5,000 Dividend to Americans if Republicans Retain Congress
Donald Trump has proposed a $5,000 dividend for American adults if Republicans retain congressional control after the midterm elections. He has linked the proposal to tariff revenues, but questions remain over its financing, eligibility, legal framework and potential impact on America’s deficit.

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4. Iranian Missile Strike Damages Nine US Aircraft at Jordan Base
An Iranian missile attack damaged eight US F-15 fighter jets and an A-10 Thunderbolt II at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. US Patriot systems were used defensively during the attack; reports indicate the F-15s suffered relatively limited damage, while the A-10 sustained serious damage.

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5. Bangladesh PM Skips BRICS Summit in India Amid Diplomatic Sensitivities
Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will not attend the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, with Dhaka indicating that no representative will participate. The decision comes amid evolving India-Bangladesh relations, although Bangladesh has signalled that a separate bilateral visit to India could take place later.

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ECONOMY

6. Crude Oil Surges Past $105 as West Asia Tensions Threaten Global Energy Supplies
Brent crude has crossed $105 a barrel as escalating tensions in West Asia raise concerns over disruptions to global oil supplies and shipping routes. Prolonged high prices could increase India’s import bill, transport costs, inflationary pressures and risks to economic growth.

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7. Smartphone Prices Rise Across Brands in India as Memory Costs Surge
Smartphone prices are rising across multiple brands in India as manufacturers face sharply higher memory and component costs. India is experiencing particularly strong price inflation, with manufacturers passing increased DRAM and NAND costs to consumers amid surging global AI-related demand.

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8. Banks Face Five-Day Disruption in Parts of India From Today
Bank customers in several parts of India face an extended interruption to physical branch services due to a combination of strike action, the second Saturday, Sunday and regional holidays. However, closures vary by location, while digital banking, UPI and ATMs generally remain available.

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ODISHA

9. Pravasi Odia Data Bank to Strengthen Global Odia Connections
The proposed Pravasi Odia Data Bank aims to create a structured network of Odias living outside Odisha, helping connect professionals, entrepreneurs, investors and community organisations with the state. The initiative could support investment, knowledge exchange, employment opportunities and promotion of Odisha’s cultural identity.