Economy: India Records Strong Growth Amidst Global Uncertainties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India's growth rate surpassed 8% in the second quarter, affirming the nation's role as a significant growth driver in the global economy. This figure underscores India's new pace of progress and strong macroeconomic signals. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman further projected India's economy to grow by at least 7% this year, attributing this resilience to strong fundamentals despite global headwinds. CRISIL's Chief Economist, Dharmakirti Joshi, echoed this sentiment, forecasting a 7% growth for fiscal year 2025-26. In a move aimed at bolstering public welfare and security, the Lok Sabha approved the Health and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, which introduces a cess on specified goods like pan masala to generate dedicated funds for public health initiatives and national security measures.
Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued show-cause notices to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and Accountable Manager Isidro Porqueras following massive flight disruptions. The Ministry of Civil Aviation also intervened by capping airfares to control surging ticket prices and ordered IndiGo to complete all pending passenger refunds by December 7, 2025.
International Relations & Politics: Assertive Diplomacy and Renewed Partnerships
India solidified its strategic partnerships at the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, where 16 agreements were exchanged in critical areas including defense, trade, economy, and healthcare. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized India's strategic autonomy, stating that no country can dictate its foreign relations, a point reinforced during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit. Separately, India and the United States renewed their commitment to counter-terrorism efforts during their 21st Joint Working Group and 7th Designations Dialogue. Both nations condemned recent terror attacks in India and called for stronger UN sanctions against terror groups such as ISIS, al-Qaida, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammad.
On the domestic political front, the BJP criticized Jawaharlal Nehru's legacy, particularly concerning issues in Jammu & Kashmir and China, in response to comments made by Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi. Campaigning for the first phase of the Kerala local body polls is set to conclude on December 7, with elections scheduled for December 9 in seven districts.
Science & Technology: Showcasing Innovation and Space Ambitions
The 11th India International Science Festival (IISF) commenced in Panchkula, Haryana, showcasing India's rapid advancements in science and technology. Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station, highlighted the nation's progress and encouraged youth to pursue space research, referencing the upcoming Gaganyaan mission and the successful Aditya-L1 solar mission.
Social Welfare & Non-Cricket Sports: Inclusivity and Global Recognition
In social welfare news, the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation initiated proactive measures for stray dog management and welfare, adhering to Supreme Court directives. The West Bengal government's flagship Lakshmir Bhandar scheme continues to be a significant social welfare program, providing monthly financial assistance to over 2.2 crore women. Furthermore, in a notable gesture of support for athletes with disabilities, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma awarded Rs 10 lakh and promised a government job to Simu Das, India's blind cricket trailblazer.
In non-cricket sports, India is emerging as a global hub for chess, demonstrated by the success of the Global Chess League (GCL) 2025, which has significantly boosted the sport's profile and participation in the country. Indian shooter Suruchi Singh secured a gold medal and set a junior world record in the Women's 10-meter air pistol event at the ISSF World Cup Final in Doha. Additionally, the FIFA 2026 World Cup match schedule was released, and India's Junior Women's Hockey team defeated Ireland in their final pool C clash.