Bihar Elections: NDA Forms Government, Nitish Kumar Set for Another Term
Following its decisive victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is actively engaged in the process of forming the new state government. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is anticipated to submit his resignation and subsequently be sworn into power again, likely by November 20. Discussions are underway among NDA allies regarding the allocation of cabinet berths, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), being the single largest party, expected to secure the majority of positions. This electoral outcome, which saw the NDA secure 202 seats against 122 in the previous election, has been seen as a reaffirmation of the NDA's political dominance and is expected to boost investor sentiment. Analysts also note the significant role of women voters, whose turnout exceeded that of men by approximately 9 percentage points. The success of "freebies" in these elections has also drawn attention, with cash transfers, particularly to women, emerging as a popular strategy for political parties.
Indian Economy Shows Exceptional Resilience Amidst Global Headwinds
India's economy continues to exhibit exceptional resilience and stability in the face of global uncertainties, including disruptive tariff measures and escalating geopolitical tensions. Anuradha Thakur, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, emphasized that the financial sector is poised to be a catalyst for India's next phase of economic transformation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated this sentiment, stating that India is "restless" for development and is growing fast, with its GDP expanding at nearly seven percent despite global instabilities. He described India not just as an emerging market but also an "emerging model." Furthermore, India's retail inflation in October 2025 declined to a historic low, attributed to GST rate reductions and corrections in food prices. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for rural India registered overall deflation for the first time, while urban inflation eased.
Delhi Red Fort Blast Identified as Suicide Attack; Arrests Made
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has confirmed that the car explosion near the Red Fort in Delhi, which killed 13 people, was a car-borne suicide attack. The driver of the car, identified as Umar ul Nabi, a doctor by profession, was the suicide bomber. In connection with the incident, the NIA has arrested a Kashmiri resident, Amir Rashid Ali, who is believed to have links to the suicide bomber and played a role in the attack. Another aide involved in modifying drones and attempting to make rockets has also been arrested. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has vowed strict action against the culprits, stating they will be "hunted down even from the depths of patal."
Strategic Moves in International Relations and Defense
India has made significant strides in bolstering its international relations and defense capabilities. Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi announced that India's relations with China have seen "a lot of improvement" since October last year, following consistent dialogue between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. These engagements have focused on resolving the border standoff and an agreement reached on the Line of Actual Control in October 2024 has been beneficial for India. On the energy front, India has struck a "historic first" energy deal with the United States, agreeing to source nearly 10% of its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) imports from the US. This move is aimed at bolstering India's energy security and diversifying its LPG supply away from Gulf countries, while also potentially easing trade tensions with the US. In defense, India has strengthened its eastern defenses by establishing three new garrison locations near the vulnerable Siliguri Corridor, including the Lachit Borphukan Military Station in Assam's Dhubri district and forward bases in Kishanganj (Bihar) and Chopra (West Bengal). These measures address shifting regional dynamics and concerns over China's growing presence.