1. National News & Developments
IMF Raises India’s FY26 Growth Outlook
The International Monetary Fund revised India’s GDP growth forecast for the fiscal year 2025–26 to 6.6%, up from the earlier 6.4%. The upward revision is attributed to resilient private consumption, strong domestic demand and ability to withstand global headwinds.India Extends Deadline for US LPG Import Tender
India’s state refiners (IOC, BPCL, HPCL) extended the deadline to 17 October 2025 for bids in the first annual U.S. LPG import tender, seeking about 2 million metric tons (~48 VLGC shipments). This is part of a strategy to reduce overdependence on Middle Eastern suppliers.BJP to Celebrate Sardar Patel’s 150th Birth Anniversary
From October 31 onwards, nationwide events are being planned to commemorate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary. In Uttar Pradesh, padyatras (10 km marches) will be held in every Assembly constituency to honour his legacy and promote national integration.Gujarat Cabinet Reshuffle Expected
A major reshuffle in the Bhupendra Patel-led Gujarat state cabinet is probable in the coming days, following consultations with central party leadership. Several senior and junior ministers may be replaced.MEA Seeks Report on SAU Sexual Assault Incident
The Ministry of External Affairs has asked South Asian University (SAU) to submit a detailed report after allegations of sexual assault by multiple individuals, including a security guard. Student protests continue demanding accountability and male leadership in the inquiry has been criticized.School Holidays across Several States
On 15 October 2025, many states including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana and Rajasthan declared school holidays. The break is due to Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti and festival preparatory leave as Diwali and Chhath approach. Some schools in Karnataka are also closed till October 18.Bank Holiday Calendar in October 2025
In October 2025, Indian banks will observe roughly 20–21 holidays (including national and regional) across the month. Major closures include Diwali period (October 20–22) and observances like Sardar Patel Jayanti (October 31).Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025: Protests & Opposition
Widespread protests have erupted in multiple states, including West Bengal and Tripura, against the Waqf (Amendment) Act of 2025. Critics allege it undermines Muslim religious endowments and gives undue control to the state, while the government claims the bill ensures better transparency and regulation.
2. International & Strategic Affairs
India–Australia Joint Military Exercise “AUSTRAHIND 2025” Commences
The 4th edition of this bilateral exercise started at Irwin Barracks in Perth (13–26 October). It aims to deepen interoperability between Indian and Australian armies, focusing on urban and semi-urban warfare, tactical coordination and joint training.US Ambassador Meets PM Modi on Bilateral Issues
Sergio Gor, U.S. Ambassador to India, held talks with PM Modi during his visit (October 9–14). The discussion covered trade tensions (including U.S. tariffs on Indian goods), defence cooperation, technology ties and critical minerals.India Hosts UN Peacekeeping Conclave
A high-level UN peacekeeping conclave is being held in New Delhi, bringing together global stakeholders to discuss operational challenges, reforms, technology integration, and future directions for peace missions.India–Mongolia Strategic Deepening
India and Mongolia announced enhanced cooperation in defence, energy, culture and connectivity, signaling stronger engagement in Asia’s geopolitics.Global Trade & Tariff Dynamics
As the U.S. maintains steep tariffs on Indian exports, both China and India cast themselves as partners rather than rivals. China has expressed support for India’s stance against restrictive trade policies.
3. Economy & Business
LG Electronics IPO in India
LG is reported to launch one of India’s largest IPOs in October 2025 — valued around ₹15,000 crore — injecting fresh interest in electronics and consumer markets.GST Reform Promised by PM
Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed that the government plans to cut or rationalize GST slabs by Diwali. The aim is to simplify the tax structure and ease the burden on middle-class consumers.India’s Q1 FY26 GDP Surge
Real GDP growth in Q1 (April-June 2025) is estimated at 7.8%, up from 6.5% year-on-year. Strong contributions came from manufacturing, construction, allied sectors and elevated domestic demand.
4. Defence, Science & Technology
Mission Sudarshan Chakra
Launched on 15 August 2025, Mission Sudarshan Chakra is India’s advanced defence architecture aimed at precision counter-strike capability and anti-cyber warfare integration. By 2035, the system is slated to be fully indigenous and operational.Critical Mineral Stockpile Initiative
The draft National Critical Mineral Stockpile (NCMS) scheme is under formulation to secure supply chains for rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt and other strategic minerals amid global competition.
5. Sports & Culture
India Wins Irani Cup (2025–26 Edition)
Vidarbha defeated Rest of India by 93 runs in the Irani Cup held in Nagpur (1–5 October). Atharva Taide was named Man of the Match.Senior Women’s T20 Trophy 2025–26
The 17th edition of the Women’s Senior T20 domestic tournament is underway (8–31 October) with 37 teams competing across multiple groups.Ayodhya Deepotsav Preparations
Ayodhya is gearing up for Deepotsav 2025, aiming to light 26 lakh diyas (2.6 million) along the Saryu River ghats to set a Guinness World Record. The event celebrates the return of Lord Rama to the city.
