National Affairs & Policy Updates
Fixed-Fare Pilot for Alliance Air Launched
The Government of India has introduced a fixed-fare scheme for Alliance Air on select routes from 13 October to 31 December 2025.
The pilot aims to stabilise finances of the state-owned fixed-wing airline and assess its operational viability.
BLS International Banned from MEA Tenders for 2 Years
The Ministry of External Affairs has barred BLS International from bidding on new contracts related to Indian diplomatic missions for two years.
This ban affects visa and passport services tied to Indian embassies and consulates globally.
TRAI Seeks Comments on Draft Broadcasting Rules (Extended Deadline 14 Oct)
TRAI’s draft amendment on broadcasting-cable interconnection rules (Seventh Amendment, 2025) has its stakeholder feedback window extended to today.
The regulation proposes realignment of audits from calendar year to financial year, among other changes.
Commerce Secretary Heads to U.S. for Trade Talks
A delegation led by the Commerce Secretary is travelling to the U.S. to resume negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement.
The move comes amid signals from the U.S. government toward advancing trade frameworks with India.
NCW Demands Fast-Track Trial Over Sexual Assault Case
The National Commission for Women has flagged administrative and security lapses in a gang-rape case involving a medical student.
It has urged transfer of the survivor to a safer institute and fast-track court trial for speedy justice.
UN TCC Chiefs’ Conclave Begins in New Delhi (14–16 Oct)
India is hosting the United Nations Troop Contributing Countries (TCC) Chiefs’ Conclave from 14 to 16 October.
Over 30 countries’ military leadership will attend; notably, Pakistan and China have not been invited.
This marks India’s increasing role in UN peacekeeping diplomacy.
XLRI Opens Application Correction Window for XAT 2026
From 14 to 16 October, candidates can revise key fields (academic, work experience, test city) in their XAT 2026 applications.
XAT is one of the prominent MBA entrance tests and this window helps reduce application errors.
Army Recruitment Rally under Agnipath (Oct 22–26)
An Agnipath recruitment drive will be conducted in the capital city from 22 to 26 October for youth aspiring to join as “Agniveers.”
Eligible candidates will undergo written, physical and medical evaluation phases during the rally.
Delhi to Experience Sunny Weather, But AQI Remains Poor
While skies will remain largely clear, air quality in Delhi continues to record ‘poor’ levels.
Citizens (especially children, elderly) are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure.
Punjab Reports 14 New Stubble Burning Incidents
The state recorded 14 fresh stubble-burning cases, raising the season’s total to 116 in Punjab.
Legal action and fines continue; Uttar Pradesh leads nationwide with 163 incidents.
Microsoft Ends Windows 10 Support Today
As of 14 October 2025, Microsoft has officially ended security and feature updates for Windows 10.
Users are urged to upgrade or migrate to supported OS versions to maintain security.
India, Canada Sign Joint Statement, Bilateral Momentum
Visiting Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and India’s EAM issued a joint statement reenergizing bilateral ties.
The collaboration focuses on trade, climate, people-to-people links, and strategic cooperation.
Trump Praises India & PM Modi at Gaza Peace Summit
Former U.S. President Trump, speaking at the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit, lauded India as “a great country” and called PM Modi “a very good friend.”
The remarks coincide with votes on a historic Gaza peace agreement.
EAM Jaishankar Visits Mongolia
India’s External Affairs Minister called on President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh of Mongolia during an official visit.
The meeting aims to boost diplomatic, cultural and strategic ties between the nations.
Afghan Foreign Minister in India, New Delhi Embraces Taliban?
The Taliban’s foreign minister is on an official visit to India, signaling a shifting diplomatic alignment in South Asia.
Analysts note India never formally aligned with the Taliban but is recalibrating ties in response to regional dynamics.
SSC CGL Tier-1 Re-exam Notification Released
The Staff Selection Commission has issued an order for re-examination of SSC CGL 2025 Tier-1, scheduled for today.
The answer key of the original exam will also be published for candidates.
International & Geopolitics
Pakistan–Afghanistan Border Clashes Intensify
Cross-border skirmishes between Pakistani forces and Afghan military have surged, each side claiming heavy casualties of opponents.
The clashes are influenced by broader India–Pakistan rivalry and shifting regional loyalties.
Rivalry Reflected at United Nations
In UN debates, India lambasted Pakistan for “hypocrisy,” accusing the neighbor of orchestrating terror acts in Afghanistan and India alike.
India’s UN Role Strengthened via Conclave
By hosting the TCC Chiefs’ Conclave, India solidifies its credibility in global peacekeeping, and frames itself as a security provider.
Economics, Banking & Finance
Retail Inflation Hits 8-Year Low
India’s retail inflation has dipped to 1.54% in September, its lowest in eight years.
This significant moderation aids the RBI’s flexibility regarding policy rates.
Indian Trade Delegation Moves to U.S. for FTA Talks
The commerce team’s mission aligns with India’s push to secure favorable trade terms with a major economy.
Telecom & Broadcasting Regulation Reforms in Sight
TRAI’s proposed broadcasting reforms will impact cable operators, broadcasters, and digital distributors — relevant for financial and media sectors.
Sports & Games
Australia Missing Key Players for India ODI
Australia’s Josh Inglis (calf strain) and Adam Zampa (family reasons) are ruled out for the first ODI versus India.
Replacements include Josh Philippe (wicketkeeper) and spinner Matt Kuhnemann.
West Indies’ Test Tour in India Ends Today
The 2025 West Indies tour of India included two Tests; India won both and clinched the series.
Top performers: Ravindra Jadeja (Player of Series), Kuldeep Yadav leading wicket-taker for India.
Delhi Horse Racing: The Kavery Plate
On 14 October, a prominent race event “The Kavery Plate” is scheduled with prize money and top contenders noted for the event card.
Awards, Appointments & Miscellaneous
IIC Festival Concludes on Women’s Voices Theme
The India International Centre’s annual cultural fest ends on 14 October, celebrating “Sā-Vanitā: Thus, She Speaks.”
It has showcased art, literature, film, dialogue focusing on women’s contributions.
Aurangabad Advocates’ Facilities to be Inaugurated
On 14 October, the High Court Chief Justice will inaugurate upgraded infrastructure for lawyers in Aurangabad, improving legal support services.
School Holidays in Many States (14 Oct)
States such as Karnataka, UP, Rajasthan, Bihar and J&K have declared school holidays due to regional festivals.
Ahoi Ashtami Festival Observed
Many Hindu mothers fast from sunrise to sunset as part of the Ahoi Ashtami ritual, praying for children’s well-being.
The Ashtami tithi extends partly into 14 October.
