PK, Oct.16,2025:Afghanistan fighting India’s proxy war, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif asserted in a primetime interview as Islamabad and Kabul observed a short, 48‑hour ceasefire after some of the deadliest cross‑border clashes in years. He described the truce as “fragile” and accused Kabul of acting as a “stooge” for New Delhi — a charge that raises the stakes in an already tense neighbourhood-

The 48‑hour ceasefire and the on‑ground reality

A temporary 48‑hour ceasefire came into effect after days of heavy fighting along the Afghanistan‑Pakistan border that left dozens dead and many more wounded. Both Islamabad and Kabul confirmed the truce — though each side framed who requested it differently — and the UN urged both parties to protect civilians and de‑escalate. Independent outlets reported strikes, artillery exchanges and displaced families near border crossings such as Spin Boldak and Chaman.

Khawaja Asif, speaking on Geo News, said that despite the formal ceasefire, he doubted its durability because, in his words, “Afghanistan fighting India’s proxy war” made any pause fragile. He warned Pakistan retained the capability to respond forcefully if hostilities resumed.

Khawaja Asif’s seven core claims

Below are the seven main claims Khawaja Asif made when accusing Kabul of acting on behalf of India — each followed by brief context and how outside reporting aligns (or doesn’t) with the claim.

The Taliban in Kabul are being “sponsored by Delhi”

Asif bluntly said Kabul’s actions appear backed by India and described the Afghan side as effectively promoting Indian interests on Pakistani soil. Pakistan’s minister framed this as the underlying reason why the ceasefire might collapse. Independent reporting confirms Asif’s comments but does not independently verify Indian sponsorship.

The 48‑hour ceasefire is “fragile” because of external backing

Asif argued that any external sponsorship (he alleges from India) reduces the likelihood the truce will hold. Observers noted both sides blamed each other for initiating violence; the ceasefire request itself had competing narratives — Islamabad said Kabul requested it, Kabul said Pakistan did. This confusion feeds into Asif’s pessimism.

Pakistan has the capacity to strike anywhere in Afghanistan

In the interview Asif stressed Pakistan’s “capability” to strike Afghan territory if attacks continued. Pakistani officials previously acknowledged cross‑border operations and limited strikes against militant positions; international media documented Pakistani air and artillery responses in recent days. Still, cross‑border strikes into Kabul or Kandahar raise major diplomatic risks.

Kabul’s narrative is a “flood of lies” about Pakistani movements

Asif accused Afghan spokespeople of misrepresenting Pakistan’s troop movements and actions, saying Pakistani accounts should be treated with caution. Both sides have circulated differing versions of incidents and casualties; independent verification has been difficult amid restricted access.

The fighting targets Pakistan’s internal security — not just border control

Asif linked recent skirmishes to a larger pattern involving militants (notably the TTP — Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Pakistan) and alleged sheltering of anti‑Pakistan elements. Islamabad has long accused elements in Afghanistan of providing sanctuary to militants who strike Pakistan; Kabul denies state sponsorship. These longstanding grievances shape Asif’s framing that Afghanistan fighting India’s proxy war is part of an effort to destabilise Pakistan.

Pakistan will respond with “full force” if attacks escalate

This was the clearest warning: Asif said Pakistan would answer decisively to any further aggression. Such statements are often intended to deter further escalation but can also harden positions and make diplomacy harder. International actors, including the UN, called for restraint to protect civilians.

The crisis is “complex but solvable” only through dialogue — after pressure

Paradoxically, while Asif accused Kabul of being a proxy for India, he also welcomed a ceasefire as a window to negotiate, implying that pressure and diplomacy must go hand in hand. Regional mediators and statements indicated there was at least some willingness to pursue talks during the truce.

Why he says “Afghanistan fighting India’s proxy war”

There are three strategic reasons Islamabad frames the conflict this way-

Historical suspicion and the Durand Line legacy: Pakistan and Afghanistan have a fraught history over the Durand Line and mutual accusations of meddling. Any uptick in border violence revives old suspicions and quickens accusatory rhetoric.

1. Domestic politics and security narratives: Casting the adversary as a proxy of a third party (India) helps Islamabad consolidate domestic consensus and justify robust military responses.
2. Information warfare: At times of conflict, political leaders use strong language to shape global and regional narratives. Calling out Afghanistan fighting India’s proxy war is as much about delegitimising Kabul’s motives as it is a military claim.

Independent reporting shows the facts on the ground are complex: there were real casualties and damage, but direct public evidence of Indian sponsorship of Afghan actions has not been produced by either Pakistan or independent outlets. Reuters, Al Jazeera, AP and others report the exchanges and the ceasefire but stop short of proving external sponsorship.

How Kabul, New Delhi and Islamabad reacted

• Kabul / Afghan Taliban administration: Kabul welcomed the ceasefire and ordered its forces to observe it while warning it would respond if Pakistan violated the truce. The Afghan side denied being a proxy and emphasized sovereign defence.
• New Delhi / India: India has repeatedly denied involvement in cross‑border violence in the region and maintains an official stance against terrorism. At the time of writing there has been no verified reporting from major outlets that India sponsors Afghan actions against Pakistan. International media treat Asif’s charge as an allegation pending evidence.
• Islamabad / Pakistan: Officials framed the ceasefire cautiously and issued warnings. Asif’s remarks were part of a broader official line pointing to external factors behind the violence. Pakistani outlets echoed his skepticism that the ceasefire would hold.

Regional implications and risks

Escalation risk

If either side interprets the other’s actions as proof of third‑party sponsorship, tit‑for‑tat responses may follow, increasing the risk of wider military engagement.

Humanitarian fallout

The UN and aid agencies warned of civilian casualties and displacement. Cross‑border engagement — drone strikes, artillery fire, air raids — exacerbate humanitarian suffering and hinder relief access.

Diplomatic fallout

Accusations like Afghanistan fighting India’s proxy war complicate potential mediation by third parties, because they inject an India factor into a bilateral crisis. Regional diplomacy will need careful calibration to avoid turning a temporary truce into a frozen conflict.

Terrorism and safe havens

Longstanding Pakistani concerns about militant safe havens in Afghanistan (and vice versa) mean trust is low. Unless verification mechanisms (monitors, international observers) are agreed, mutual accusations could persist.

Where this leaves the fragile truce

Khawaja Asif’s repeated allegation that Afghanistan fighting India’s proxy war crystallises a broader political narrative in Islamabad that attributes recent hostilities to external meddling. Whether or not independent evidence ultimately supports that charge, the statement matters: it hardens positions, shapes public opinion, and raises the diplomatic stakes.

New Delhi, Oct.16,2025: Dipawali Puja Vidhi 2025 begins with radiant hope, inviting wealth, wisdom, and well-being into homes. On the night of Diwali, devotees perform the Lakshmi–Ganesh puja with deep faith, believing that the right ritual in the right sequence brings divine blessings. In 2025, this ritual holds extra devotion as households all over India prepare to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesh, and Lord Kuber at the auspicious moment of Amavasya-

Lakshmi is the deity of wealth and prosperity, Ganesh the remover of obstacles, and Kuber the treasurer of riches. Performing Diwali Puja Vidhi 2025 in the prescribed manner ensures balance: material prosperity anchored by spiritual wisdom.

Date, Muhurat & Timing for Lakshmi Puja 2025

The most critical element is performing the puja at the right time. According to Drik Panchang, Lakshmi Puja in 2025 should be done in Pradosh Kaal, which begins after sunset and spans about 2 hours and 24 minutes.

Many calendars also note that on Diwali night, the Amavasya Tithi (new moon) spans from afternoon of October 20 to evening of October 21.

In practice, an auspicious window is typically around evening to early night, varying by city. For instance, Vedantu cites an approximate evening muhurat slot (e.g. 19:08 to 20:18 in Delhi) for Lakshmi Puja in 2025.

Hence, you should consult your local Panchang (regional almanac) to pinpoint the precise muhurat in your city.

Why Worship Lakshmi, Ganesh & Kuber Together

• Lakshmi grants abundance, prosperity, and comfort.
• Ganesh is worshipped first, as he removes obstacles and bestows wisdom, ensuring that the blessings of Lakshmi can endure.
• Kuber is revered as the lord of wealth—especially financial and material riches. Including him reinforces the invocation of stable prosperity.

Combined, this triad ensures not just wealth, but the capacity to sustain it with clarity, ethics, and protection.

Preparations Before Starting the Puja

Before launching into the formal steps, certain preparations are essential-

• Take a purifying bath and don fresh, clean clothes (preferably traditional attire).
• Clean the puja site thoroughly, sweeping and washing the floor, doors, windows.
• Lay a red cloth or new cloth on a low platform (chowki) for the deities’ seat.
• Assemble all puja materials (listed later) neatly.
• Decorate the surroundings with rangoli, marigold garlands, mango or banana leaves, and lights/diyas.
• Place a Kalash (a copper or brass pot) filled with water, mango leaves, and a coconut on top — a sanctified symbolic vessel.
• Draw or place Swastika, “Shree” or sacred symbols around the puja space.

Such careful preparation aligns the environment for the Dipawali Puja Vidhi 2025 to unfold with harmony.

Step-by-Step Dipawali Puja Vidhi 2025

Here is a refined, easy-to-follow ritual sequence that aligns with classical tradition and contemporary homes:

Avahan (Invocation)

1. Begin with Pranam / Namaskar — salute to all deities.
2. Invoke Lord Ganesh first, offering him flowers, Durva grass, sweets.
3. Then invoke Goddess Lakshmi — you may recite invocation mantras, e.g. “Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah.”
4. Optionally, invoke Kubera with a Kubera mantra to seek blessings of affluence.

Abhishek (Holy Bath)

• Offer a panchamrit / panchopachar snan (mix of milk, curd, honey, ghee, water) or mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, tulsi, and Gangajal to the deities.
• Use a spoon or small pot to pour sanctified water over the idols.
• Wipe gently, then return the idols to their place.

Decoration & Alankara (Adornment)

• Apply kumkum / turmeric / chandan on the forehead (tilak) of the idols.
• Dress the idols with garlands of red flowers (roses, hibiscus) and necklace/har ornaments if available.
• Place lotus or red flowers before Goddess Lakshmi.
• Use a red cloth or silk beneath idols.
• Surround the idols with lighted diyas, incense holders, and decorative lamps.

Offering Bhog & Naivedya

• Offer fruits, sweets, dry fruits, and coins or currency (money) near the idol.
• Place puffed rice, rice grains, betel leaves, coconut, etc.
• Optionally, include khilas (sugar, milk sweets) and candy (batasha).
• In some households, devotees also place symbolic items the deity “likes” (per family tradition).

Lighting Deepak & Aarti

• Light a ghee lamp (deepak) and place before the deities.
• Wave the lamp in a circular motion in Aarti, first for Ganesh, then for Lakshmi (and Kubera if included).
• Use a bell during Aarti.
• Sing or recite Aarti songs / stotras (e.g., “Shri Lakshmi Aarti,” “Ganesh Aarti”).
• After Aarti, offer flower petals (pushpanjali) and Pradakshina (circumambulation) if space permits.

Mantra Japa & Stotra Recitation

• Chant Vedic mantras or Lakshmi / Ganesh stotras, e.g. Shri Suktam, Ganesh Atharvashirsha.
• Repeat 108 or 11 / 21 times, per your capacity.
• Meditate with devotion, visualizing divine energy entering your home.

Shankha, Kshama & Prasad Distribution

• Blow Shankha (conch) three times (if available).
• Seek forgiveness (kshama) from family and ancestors, asking for blessings and pardon for any wrongs.
• Distribute the Prasad (prasadam) — sweets or fruits among family and guests.
• Clean up respectfully and dispose of leftover items (like flowers, offerings) as per tradition (e.g. immerse in flowing water, or bury them respectfully).

With these 10 steps, your Dipawali Puja Vidhi 2025 is complete.

Essential Puja Materials List

Here’s a concise checklist for your convenience:

• Red cloth / clean cloth
• Chowki / low platform
• Idols / pictures of Ganesh, Lakshmi (and Kuber if used)
• Kalash with water, mango leaves, coconut
• Gangajal (holy water)
• Panchamrit ingredients (milk, curd, honey, etc.)
• Turmeric, kumkum, chandan
• Red flowers, lotus, garlands
• Fruits, sweets, nuts, puffed rice
• Coins / currency
• Betel leaves, coconut
• Deepak (oil or ghee lamp) & wicks
• Incense sticks (agarbatti)
• Bell, conch (shankha)
• A tray for Aarti
• Plate or holder for Prasad
• Clean utensils, spoons, vessel

You can adapt or omit items per tradition, but aim to include essential symbolic offerings.

Regional & Traditional Variations You May Include

• In some regions, devotees first worship Kubera before Lakshmi.
• Hukka Paati tradition in Mithila: after main puja, members light hookah-patti from the diya and sprinkle coloured rice across rooms and the yard.
• In certain states, devotees may also pray to Saraswati, especially in a learning household.
• Some households include Navagraha (nine planets) worship along with the Lakshmi–Ganesh puja.
• Temple or priestly (Tantric) forms may include Mahanishita Kaal rituals (deeper nighttime rites).
• Mantras or stotras may differ by regional lineage.

You may blend your family traditions with the standard Diwali Puja Vidhi 2025 steps above.

Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t rush: Begin early so you can finish within the muhurat calmly.
• Clocks & timing: Verify your city’s Panchang rather than relying on generic times.
• Cleanliness is paramount: A dirty altar displeases deities.
• Offer fresh flowers & food; stale items are inauspicious.
• Don’t skip Ganesh invocation—always worship Ganesh first.
• Overcrowded idols: Avoid crowding too many deities in a cramped space.
• Neglecting family participation: Involve all family members in the ritual for unity.
• Rushing mantra chanting: Chant with devotion and clarity, not speed.
• Unsafe fire handling: Be cautious with diyas/lamps near cloth, curtains, or children.

Spiritual Significance & Benefits

When performed with sincerity, Diwali Puja Vidhi 2025 is believed to-

• Attract wealth, prosperity, and abundance into the home
• Remove financial and life obstacles via Lord Ganesh’s blessings
• Strengthen faith, unity, and calmness in family
• Establish spiritual harmony and inner peace
• Bring the grace of Goddess Lakshmi to dwell in one’s home

Every diya lit, every mantra uttered, and every offering given is a gesture to invite light over darkness, positivity over negativity.

Dipawali Puja Vidhi 2025 is more than ritual—it’s an opportunity to reset spiritually, purify your home, and re-center on higher values. With devotion, clarity, and tradition, the evening’s worship can become a pathway to lasting blessings.

May your home be filled with light, your life enriched with harmony, and your heart anchored in faith. May Goddess Lakshmi smile upon you, Lord Ganesh remove every obstacle, and Kuber bless you with abundance—today and always.

US, Oct.16,2025:India Russian oil stop became a dramatic flashpoint when U.S. President Donald Trump publicly claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally assured him that India would cease buying Russian oil.
Trump made this revelation at a White House event, asserting that Modi is committed to cutting off Russia’s energy revenues-

He described the transition as “a process, but that process will be over with soon.”

If true, this would mark a seismic shift in India’s energy diplomacy. But as of now, the Indian government has not endorsed or confirmed this claim publicly.

Trump’s statements-praise, love, and clarifications

Praise turns personal

As he made the bold India Russian oil stop declaration, Trump didn’t just focus on policy — he wove in personal praise. He called PM Modi “a great man” and said Modi “loves Trump.”

Trump remarked, “I love Modi,” but quickly added he didn’t want that to be misinterpreted. He clarified that he had no intention of harming Modi’s political image.

Such remarks added an odd, almost romantic tone to a highly charged diplomatic statement — and raised eyebrows in New Delhi.

 “It’s a little bit of a process”

Trump acknowledged that India couldn’t halt Russian oil imports overnight. He described the shift as gradual but assured that it would be completed “soon.”

He further said that even though the transition isn’t immediate, it’s underway: “There will be no oil. He’s not buying oil.”

This nuanced caveat — “process” — suggests Trump understands the complexity of energy supply chains, but still wants to frame the move as inevitable.

Reactions from New Delhi and political opposition

India’s official stance- cautious and refusal to confirm

New Delhi has responded cautiously. Foreign Ministry communiqués emphasize that India will safeguard the interests of its citizens — ensuring energy security and affordability.

The Indian government has neither denied nor affirmed Trump’s claim. Instead, officials underscore that India’s decisions will follow national interest, not external pressure.

Opposition voices surge

In domestic politics, the claim sparked fierce reactions. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused PM Modi of compromising national dignity by “allowing Trump to decide India’s energy policies.”

He launched a five-point critique, saying Modi was “frightened” of Trump and silent on critical issues.

These debates deepen the domestic pressure on the government to clearly state its position.

Market and economic impact of the claim

Rupee rally and central bank intervention

The Indian rupee saw an immediate response. It strengthened by about 0.8 %, reaching 88.0750 per U.S. dollar — its best showing in months.

This rally was partly driven by market optimism that a India Russian oil stop commitment could ease trade tensions with the U.S.

The Reserve Bank of India also intervened heavily, selling dollars to curb volatility.

Oil markets and pricing pressures

Global oil markets responded too. Brent crude futures rose about 0.9 %, as traders priced in potential supply shifts.

If India reduces Russian oil imports, demand may shift to other suppliers, possibly pushing prices higher or disrupting logistics.

Trade tensions and tariff context

This claim comes in the wake of earlier U.S. tariffs targeting India’s Russian oil imports. The Trump administration had slapped up to 50 % tariffs on Indian goods partially as a response to India’s continued purchases of Russian crude.

Some analysts see this India Russian oil stop statement as an attempt at diplomatic recalibration.

Geopolitical stakes- U.S., Russia, India

U.S. pressure on Moscow

Trump’s aim is clear: to reduce Russia’s energy revenue and push Moscow toward a negotiated settlement in the Ukraine war.

By pressuring India and trying to bring China on board, Trump hopes to tighten the noose on Russian oil exports.

India’s strategic balancing act

India has relied on Russian oil imports for stability, affordability, and diversification of energy routes.

Yet India also prizes strategic autonomy — foreign pressure to change energy policy challenges that principle.

Russia’s response and future ties

If India actually curtailed Russian oil purchases, Russia would lose a major client. That could escalate tensions or lead Moscow to offer deeper discounts or alternate partnerships.

At the same time, Russia may retaliate in diplomatic or defense sectors.

Questions and contradictions

Did Modi really promise

The largest question is whether the promise was ever made. India has not validated Trump’s claim.

Modi’s silence on the matter has fueled speculation and skepticism.

Can India manage an abrupt shift

India’s energy system is complex. Supply chains, contracts, refining capacities, and global oil markets all need adjustment. A sudden stop in Russian oil is extremely challenging.

Even Trump concedes: the halt is not immediate.

Hidden motivations

Critics argue the announcement could serve multiple political goals-

• Domestic benefit: bolster Trump’s image as a dealmaker
• Diplomatic positioning: signal alignment to U.S.
• Pressure tactic: push India toward concessions

We must ask: is this a signal or a realistic policy commitment?

is India Russian oil stop realistic

The phrase India Russian oil stop now looms large in geopolitical discourse. But whether it becomes reality is uncertain.

India faces domestic pressures — energy security, cost, supply chain disruptions — that make a full stop hard.

Diplomatically, confirming such a commitment could strain India’s ties with Russia and upset its balancing foreign policy.

UK, Oct.15,2025:A-Level English Mandate is now a defining phrase for migrants eyeing the UK in 2026. The British government has announced that from 8 January 2026, a higher standard of English proficiency—comparable to an A-level (B2) level—will become mandatory for many visa applicants. This move signals a dramatic shift in how the UK views language and integration in its immigration policy-

For individuals applying for Skilled Worker, Scale-up, High Potential Individual, or graduate visas, this A-Level English Mandate is set to reshape their eligibility and preparation strategy. In this article, we examine the mandate in depth, its ripple effects, reactions, and how to navigate this changing terrain.

What Exactly Is the A-Level English Mandate

The A-Level English Mandate means that visa applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at B2 level, which is equivalent to A-level / upper intermediate standard—higher than the currently often accepted B1 or intermediate threshold.

Key components-

• Applicants will need to pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) administered by a Home Office–approved provider.
• The rules apply to all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
• The policy comes into effect on 8 January 2026 for new applicants.
• It is part of broader proposals in the UK’s Immigration White Paper (May 2025) known as Restoring Control over the Immigration System. In short, the A-Level English Mandate is more than a language test: it is a policy tool intended to enforce language competency and, according to the government, strengthen integration.

Which Visa Categories Are Affected

The A-Level English Mandate is not universal—initially, it targets visa categories most associated with skilled migration, growth-focused routes, and graduate transitions:

• Skilled Worker Visa: New applicants must meet the B2 English requirement.
• Scale-up Visa: Applicants under the Scale-up route will also be subject to the new English standard.
• High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa: Graduates from top universities applying via HPI will need to satisfy the A-level English standard.
• Graduate Visa (for students switching to work visas): Though the Graduate Visa itself may not require B2 immediately, transitioning to a skilled route later will require meeting the A-level English Mandate.
• Dependents & Family Visas: The white paper suggests that stricter language requirements may be extended to adult dependents and those seeking long-term settlement, though details are still under consultation.
• These changes will affect a large pool of prospective migrants, especially from countries like India, where skilled migration and graduate pathways are popular.

Why the UK Is Imposing the A-Level English Mandate

The government’s stated rationale and the policy context reveal multiple motivations behind the A-Level English Mandate.

A. Integration & Social Cohesion

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said that migrants must learn English to “play your part” in national life. The government suggests that higher language skills will facilitate better integration and reduce social isolation.

B. Curbing Net Migration

The A-level English Mandate is part of the broader push to reduce immigration numbers. The government estimates that this change alone could lower visa immigration by several thousand annually. It aligns with broader limits on visa categories and residence periods in the white paper.

C. Skills & Labor Control

By raising barriers for less fluent applicants, the government is implicitly prioritizing more skilled migrants who can already meet a higher English standard. This acts as a filter for economic contributions.

D. Political Signalling

Some analysts interpret the change as a political measure: showing voters that immigration policy is firm, control is restored, and the government is responding to public concerns. Emma Brooksbank, an immigration lawyer, suggested it’s more about signalling than business need.
This is consistent with the political pressures under Keir Starmer’s government to address rising migration numbers.

In sum, the A-Level English Mandate is a multifaceted tool, blending integration goals, migration control, and political messaging.

Top five Impacts of the A-Level English Mandate

Let’s dive into the key ways the A-Level English Mandate will reshape migration, labour, and policy.

Tougher Entry for Skilled Workers

For many visa aspirants-

• Applicants must already possess or achieve B2 (A-level equivalent) English.
• Lower-skilled roles or sectors with weaker English requirements may be excluded or see fewer migrant applicants.
• Employers depending on foreign staff with intermediate English may face recruitment bottlenecks.

Strain on Graduate & Scale-Up Visas

• Graduates aiming to transition to a skilled role must meet the English threshold to move from Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker route.
• The reduced Graduate Visa window (from 2 years to 18 months from January 2027) compounds pressure.
• Scale-up routes, designed to attract growth-oriented migrants, may see fewer eligible candidates due to language block.

Dependents & Family Visa Repercussions

• The upcoming changes may extend mandates to adult dependents and those applying for long-term residency, raising the bar for entire families.
• Some migrants may find family reunification harder if English standards rise.

Regional & Sectoral Labor Shortages

• Industries already suffering from labour shortages (care, hospitality, construction) are at risk if fewer migrant workers qualify under the mandate.
• Areas in the UK dependent on migrant labour may struggle to fill roles, leading to wage inflation or service gaps.

Integration vs. Barrier Debate

• Proponents argue the mandate enhances community cohesion, better employment outcomes, and integration.
• Critics warn it may become a barrier, discriminating based on language skill and excluding capable workers whose roles don’t demand high English fluency.
• Some sectors argue English fluency is not always essential for the job itself and should not be a blanket requirement.

These five impacts show that A-Level English Mandate will ripple across pathways, workplaces, and lives.

Reactions from Communities, Employers & Analysts

Employers & Industry Groups

Many employers — especially in health, social care, and construction — express worry that the mandate will worsen staffing crises. They argue that some roles do not require advanced English for safe execution Some also question the underlying evidence justifying the change.

Immigration Lawyers & Analysts

Legal experts caution that the measure may have unintended consequences:

• Emma Brooksbank calls the shift more symbolic than functional.
• Dr Madeleine Sumption of Oxford’s Migration Observatory warns that many graduate roles already require above-A-level language skills, so the shift may not radically change outcomes.

Some view the mandate as a political signal rather than a practical necessity.

Migrant Communities & Prospective Applicants

Prospective migrants from India, Pakistan, Africa, and other regions face uncertainty. Many must now invest in language training, retake tests, or rethink migration plans. Some see it as exclusionary. Applicants who had planned to apply in 2026 must recheck whether their English level meets B2.

In communities where English education is uneven, the mandate may disproportionately disadvantage certain socioeconomic groups.

How Indian Applicants Are Being Specifically Targeted

India is one of the countries most impacted by the A-Level English Mandate, given the large number of Indian students and skilled migrants to the UK.

• Indian skilled visa applicants will need to certify B2 / A-level English proficiency from Jan 2026.
• Many Indian graduates hoping to transition under the Graduate Visa scheme will now face higher thresholds.
• Language training centres in India may see increased demand as applicants rush to upgrade their English skills.
• Those relying on weaker speaking or reading skills may need to invest time and cost into test preparation.
• Applicants in nonmetropolitan or rural regions, where English resources are less available, may find the new barrier more daunting.

In other words, for many Indian aspirants, the A-Level English Mandate may determine whether their UK dream remains feasible.

Strategies to Prepare for the Coming A-Level English Mandate

Here are actionable steps for prospective migrants, employers, and institutions-

A. Early English Assessment & Training

• Take a baseline language test now to see where you stand relative to B2.
• Enroll in focused B2 preparation courses—speaking, writing, comprehension, grammar.
• Use resources like British Council courses or recognized SELT providers.

B. Time Applications Smartly

• If possible, submit visa applications before 8 January 2026 under the old rules.
• For students, aim to secure Graduate Visas or switch to skilled routes before the mandate kicks in.

C. Leverage Exemptions & Flexible Routes

• Monitor if any visa categories (e.g., certain shortage occupations) get exemptions from the mandate.
• Consider routes where English requirement is delayed or phased in.

D. Employer Support & Sponsorship Planning

• Seek employers willing to provide language training or support to help meet B2 standards.
• Employers should plan recruitment strategies factoring in English-skill timelines.

E. Advocacy & Legal Monitoring

• Stay updated via UK Government and Home Office releases.
• Engage immigration advice forums and legal experts to interpret shifting rules.
• Monitor if appeals or policy adjustments emerge in response to backlash.

F. Focus on Communication Skills

• Practice spoken fluency — engage in conversations, public speaking, debate clubs.
• Build reading and writing stamina — newspapers, essays, timed writing tasks.

By preparing strategically, many applicants may navigate the A-Level English Mandate successfully rather than be blindsided.

Risks, Criticism & Potential Backlash

No policy shift is without controversy. Here are key criticisms and risks:

Barrier to Talent

Critics argue the mandate may exclude capable talent who fulfil job requirements, but whose English is improving and sufficient for workplace participation.

Inequality in Access

Those from rural or resource-scarce regions may lack access to quality English education and test preparation, increasing inequality.

Economic & Sectoral Strain

Sectors dependent on migrant labour may suffer shortages and rising costs. Some essential services could be disrupted.

Symbolism over Substance

As some legal analysts argue, the change may be more political symbolism than practical necessity—signalling control rather than addressing systemic issues.

Implementation & Transition Gaps

Transition rules, grandfathering clauses, and enforcement may cause legal confusion and appeals.

Reputation & Global Perception

The policy could damage the UK’s image as open to talent, pushing students and professionals to choose other destinations (USA, Canada, Australia).

Overall, while the A-Level English Mandate aims for control and integration, its side effects merit scrutiny and responsive adaptation.

Turning a Mandate into Opportunity

The A-Level English Mandate is a watershed shift in UK immigration policy. It raises the bar for language skills, implicitly filters migrants, and aligns with the government’s push for tighter control and social integration.

New Delhi, Oct.14,2025:Mental health crisis in India youth is no longer a whisper from the fringes—it has become a loud alarm that demands attention. Across urban and rural regions, among students and young professionals, anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and suicidal thoughts are rising sharply. This article unpacks the data, digs into the causes, and highlights what can be done before the crisis deepens further-

Alarming statistics- how widespread is the issue

Study in Tier-1 cities

A recent study conducted by SRM University AP, Amaravati, published in the Asian Journal of Psychiatry, surveyed 1,628 students (aged 18–29) across eight major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kolkata). Findings include:

• Nearly 70% of students reported moderate to high anxiety.
• About 60% showed signs of depression.
• Over 70% felt emotionally distressed.
• 65% struggled to regulate behaviour or emotions.

Other relevant data

• Among adolescents in Telangana and Karnataka (ages 10-18), over 60% reported sleep difficulties; 70% reported problems focusing in class.
• In India’s workforce and academic settings, nearly 75% of high school students sleep fewer than 7 hours due to late-night social media use; many feel career uncertainty.
• UNICEF reports indicate only 41% of young people in India believe it’s good to seek help for mental health problems, compared to ~83% in many other countries.

• Treatment gap and professional shortage

• India has about 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, far below WHO recommendations.
• Treatment gap for mental disorders is estimated between 70% to 92%, depending on region and disorder.

These numbers show that mental health crisis in India youth is wide, serious, and multi-dimensional.

Case studies- when social media becomes a trigger

While data gives scale, real stories show the human toll. They mirror many of the trends uncovered by recent studies and add urgency to the need for prevention.

• Case 1: In Raipur (Chhattisgarh), a 22-year-old man who made reels and videos felt despair when his recent posts didn’t get many views. He increasingly isolated himself and one day injured himself via cutting his wrist. Family intervened just in time and got medical help.
• Case 2: In Bhopal, a 23-year-old woman preparing for competitive exams felt immense pressure, loneliness, and repeated failures. She attempted suicide when she felt she had no outlet—this, despite being academically good. Intervention came in time, with help from family and mental health professionals.

These stories underline how external validation (likes, views, status), social isolation, peer comparison, and academic pressure can interact with vulnerabilities, causing crises.

pressure, lifestyle, pandemic impact

Academic, peer & social media pressure

Students cite overwhelming competition, expected academic success, job prospects, etc. Social media amplifies peer pressure: lifestyle comparisons, social status, likes/views become measures of self-worth. Studies show high social media usage correlates with anxiety, sleep issues, and emotional distress.

Lifestyle changes and lack of physical activity

In many cases, children and young adults have decreased physical activity, increased screen time, poor sleep habits, and irregular routines. These contribute to emotional instability, mood disorders, and even physical health issues. This is in line with child psychiatry experts’ observations. (Your original cases about media, gaming addiction, lack of physical activity illustrate this.)

Pandemic after-effects and isolation

COVID-19 lockdowns, disruptions in schooling / college, increased remote/online interactions have caused prolonged isolation. Reports show that youth aged 18-24 were among the worst affected in their mental health scores post-pandemic.

Lack of early support, stigma & awareness

Although awareness has increased, many young people do not recognize early signs. Many are reluctant to seek help due to fear of being judged or due to lack of access. UNICEF data shows low rates of belief in seeking mental health support in India relative to other countries.

physical and psychological links

The mental health crisis in India youth doesn’t only affect emotions—it has broader health and social consequences.

• Physical health risks: Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease are rising in tandem with mental stress. Stress hormones affect sleep, diet, and bodily systems. In your source data, psychiatric experts note links between mental distress and these physical disorders.
• Emotional regulation & behaviour problems: Youth may have difficulty managing mood, behaviour, impulsivity. Increased substance use, self-harm, or suicidal ideation may follow, especially when pressure or rejection (e.g. from social media) is perceived.
• Academic, social, relational impact: Decline in performance, drop in self-esteem, withdrawal from friends/family, breakdowns in relationships. As in the cases you describe.
• Long-term risk: Early mental health conditions often predict recurrent problems, even in later adulthood. Unaddressed depression or anxiety may lead to chronic illness, lower life satisfaction.

studies, support systems, campaigners

University & survey reports

• The SRM University AP study (1,628 students) as mentioned above.
• Studies on adolescent girls’ mental health, including awareness programmes in remote or rural areas (e.g. Assam, Telangana).

Helplines & tele-mental health

• Tele-MANAS in Karnataka has received over 65,000 calls since its launch in 2022, supporting young people in crises.
• New mental health helpdesk for medical students in Telangana (T-JUDA) to offer peer support, counselling.

Government & policy efforts

• Economic Survey 2024-25 underscores need for preventive mental health education, digital services, workplace policies.
• UNICEF’s “Mental Well-being for Young People” approach that emphasizes integrated services, early detection, reducing stigma.

Community, grassroots action

• Peer-led programmes, student support groups, awareness in schools.
• Workshops and community health clinics in tribal or rural areas improving access (e.g. Gadchiroli study).

What needs to change-solutions and early interventions

To address the mental health crisis in India youth, multiple coordinated steps are essential:

Early identification & screening

• Integrate mental health screening in schools, colleges. Trained counsellors should observe signs: sleep problems, withdrawn behaviour, changes in mood or performance.
• Use validated tools, possibly AI/technology-assisted where feasible, especially after the rise in digital mental health studies.

Awareness & destigmatization

• Reduce shame attached to mental illness. Public campaigns, peer testimonials, role models speaking out.
• Educate parents, teachers, employers about what mental illness may look like, that it can be treated, and help exists.

Improve access to professional care

• Increase number of psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric social workers. WHO recommendation is higher than current ratio.
• Enhance tele-mental health services: helplines like Tele-MANAS, online counselling.

Support systems in institutions

• Schools and colleges should have counselling centres, peer support cells. Emotional support should be part of curriculum.
• Employers should build policies allowing mental health days, wellbeing programs, reduce burnout.

Healthy lifestyle & digital balance

• Promote physical activity, sleep hygiene, limits on screen time.
• Teach young people digital literacy: how social media works, how comparison and algorithms can amplify distress.

turning awareness into action

The mental health crisis in India youth is a reality. It’s visible in statistics, in heartbreaking case studies, and in every city and rural area where young people suffer in silence. But there is also hope. Awareness is rising. Institutions, researchers, policy makers, and community actors are stepping in.

Israel, Oct.11,2025:Israel Hezbollah airstrike Lebanon reverberated across southern Lebanon on October 11, 2025, when the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a pre-dawn strike on the village of Msayleh, claiming to have targeted a site used by Hezbollah to rebuild its infrastructure-

In this article, we dissect what is known so far, place it within the larger conflict dynamics, and explore how this strike may tip the fragile balance in the region.

The Airstrike Details

• The strike hit Msayleh, a village in southern Lebanon, destroying heavy machinery and damaging vehicles.
• According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, one person was killed and seven injured.
• The IDF stated that the targeted site was being used by Hezbollah to reconstruct destroyed militant infrastructure — specifically engineering machinery.
• Reports say that a passing vegetable transport vehicle was struck, causing civilian casualties.
• The strike briefly cut a critical highway linking Beirut with southern Lebanon, disrupting travel and rescue efforts.

This attack came despite a brokered ceasefire in November 2024 that nominally ended the 14-month Israel–Hezbollah war.

Casualties & Damage Reported

• Fatalities: 1 (a Syrian citizen, according to Lebanese media)
• Injured: 7 people, including two women
• Property damage: Heavy machinery and vehicles destroyed or heavily damaged; infrastructure facilities implicated in militant reconstruction efforts.
• Collateral damage: The passing vegetable transport truck was hit, harming civilians.

Multiple media outlets underscore that while the strike appears tactical, it carries profound implications for civilian risk under ongoing aerial campaigns.

Conflict Since October 2023

Origins of Escalation

• On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale assault into Israel, prompting Israel’s military response in Gaza. In solidarity, Hezbollah began firing rockets at Israel days later.
• This tit-for-tat escalated into a broader conflict involving airstrikes and cross-border shelling.

The 2024 War & Ceasefire

• From late 2023 through 2024, Israel and Hezbollah engaged in periodic large-scale operations across southern Lebanon.
• In November 2024, a U.S.-brokered ceasefire halted open warfare.
• Even after the truce, Israel continued near-daily airstrikes, accusing Hezbollah of attempting to rebuild.

Ongoing Violations and Tensions

• The Lebanese government has pursued disarmament plans for Hezbollah, but enforcement remains contested.
• Since the ceasefire, reports suggest over 103 verified civilian deaths in Lebanon from strikes.
• Israel argues the rump Hezbollah forces are still active south of the Litani River.

Thus, Israel Hezbollah airstrike Lebanon is not an isolated event but a continuation of a conflict in suspension.

Strategic Motives Behind the Strike

Preventing Reconstitution of Hezbollah

The official justification by the IDF centers on preventing Hezbollah from reconstructing infrastructure for arms and logistics—a claim backed by the targeting of engineering machinery.

Testing Ceasefire Limits & Signaling Resolve

By conducting strikes still under ceasefire, Israel may be asserting that it will not tolerate quiet while its adversary rebuilds. It sends a signal: restraint has limits.

Intelligence & Targeted Strikes

Strikes like these often follow intelligence that pinpoints specific assets. Interrogations of alleged collaborators suggest Israel maintains active human intelligence in Lebanon.

Psychological Warfare

Showing capability to strike inside Lebanon—even under supposed truce—can exert psychological pressure on both Hezbollah and Lebanese civilian morale.

Lebanon and Hezbollah Reactions

Lebanese Government

The Lebanese government condemned the strike, calling it a violation of sovereignty. Officials maintain that Israeli violations must be censured in international forums.

Hezbollah

Hezbollah has rejected calls for disarmament and views such strikes as attempts to keep Lebanon in perpetual conflict. They often respond with rocket barrages, though none were immediately reported in this instance.

Arrests & Collaboration Allegations

Lebanese authorities have arrested 32 individuals in recent months on suspicion of aiding Israel with intelligence on Hezbollah. Of those, nine have already been tried by military courts; others remain under investigation.

These arrests highlight internal pressures and potential fissures within Lebanese civil society under conflict conditions.

Risks of Escalation & Regional Impacts

Resurgence of Full-Scale War

Consistent strikes under tenuous ceasefire raise the risk of a renewed full-scale war. A

Civilian Safety & Humanitarian Costs

Each strike carries a high risk of civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. Lebanon’s fragile economy and civil services are already strained.

Spillover to Syria and Iran

Hezbollah’s connections to Iran and its operations within Syria create avenues for broader escalation. Israel may extend strikes into Syrian territory in parallel conflicts.

Diplomatic Fallout

Strikes violate ceasefire norms and risk inflaming diplomatic backlash from regional and global actors demanding restraint.

Diplomatic Pressures & International Response

• The U.N. Secretary-General and U.N. human rights officials have renewed calls for lasting peace and protection of civilians.
• Lebanon has appealed to allies like France, U.S., and Arab states to mediate and restrain Israel.
• Some international analysts argue that Israel’s strategy undermines its moral standing, especially when strikes harm civilians.
• Israel counters that the actions are legitimate self-defense against a non-state actor violating previous agreements.

Scenarios for Stability

Strict Enforcement & Diplomatic Pressure

International actors may push both sides into tighter adherence to ceasefire terms, strengthening inspection and buffer mechanisms.

Tit-for-Tat Escalation

Hezbollah might respond with rocket attacks; Israel may retaliate with further air and drone strikes, dragging the region deeper into conflict.

Incremental Rebuilding & Standoff

Hezbollah may continue reconstruction amid intermittent strikes, creating a prolonged low-intensity conflict phase.

Broad Regional Conflict

If Iran or Syria intervenes directly or through proxies, the confrontation could widen beyond Lebanon-Israel boundaries.

Israel Hezbollah airstrike Lebanon underscores the fragility of ceasefire agreements and the latent forces challenging peace in the Levant. This strike, small in scale, nonetheless signals major risks — retribution, civilian suffering, and renewed war.

Oslo, Oct.11,2025:Maria Corina Machado Nobel Peace Prize stands as a momentous announcement made on October 10, 2025, when the Norwegian Nobel Committee bestowed the Nobel Peace Prize upon the Venezuelan opposition leader.
In the official press release, the committee described the award as honoring “a brave and committed champion of peace – a woman who keeps the flame of democracy burning amid a growing darkness-

Her win signals not only recognition of her lifelong struggle but also provokes intense global discussions about democracy, foreign influence, and media narratives.

Who Is María Corina Machado

María Corina Machado, born on October 7, 1967, in Caracas, is a Venezuelan opposition leader, former legislator, and activist.
She trained as an industrial engineer and comes from an upper-class business family.

During her political career-

• She founded Súmate, a civil society organization, and later co-founded the liberal opposition party Vente Venezuela.
• In 2023, she won the opposition primary with overwhelming support but was barred from running in the 2024 presidential race by Venezuela’s courts.
• After the electoral disqualification, she went into hiding for safety reasons under the Maduro government’s crackdown.
• Her activism includes advocating for liberal economic reforms (privatization, free markets) and welfare programs for the poor.

Her life has been marked by personal risk; many of her senior aides have been arrested or exiled.

Why She Was Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize

Official Reasoning

The Nobel Committee honored Machado “for her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”

They also emphasized her role as “a key, unifying figure in a political opposition that was once deeply divided.”

Symbolic Courage Amid Repression

• Machado remained inside Venezuela, even under threat, rather than fleeing abroad—a decision the Nobel Committee praised as inspiring millions.
• In announcing her award, the committee remarked that she has “kept the flame of democracy burning” in “growing darkness,” noting the erosion of democratic norms regionally and globally.

Global Resonance

Her recognition also resonates with a broader narrative: democracy under pressure, authoritarianism rising, and the role of individual dissidents.

Thus, Maria Corina Machado Nobel Peace Prize is about more than Venezuelan politics—it taps into global debates on democratic resilience.

Machado’s Dedication to Trump and Venezuelans

One of the most provocative elements following the announcement was Machado’s dedication of the award to two parties: “the Venezuelan people” and former U.S. President Donald Trump.

In her social media posts on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote-

“I dedicate this prize to the suffering people of Venezuela and to President Trump for his decisive support of our cause.”

Her dedication generated shock and debate-

• Trump, who had campaigned openly for the Nobel Prize himself, naturally shared her post, fueling speculation about motives.
• Skeptics argue that her dedication undermines her claim to neutrality, while supporters view it as recognition of political alignment and strategic alliances.

This dedication itself became a lightning rod, framing the narrative not just around Machado’s personal struggle, but her geopolitical affiliations.

Support for Israel, Ties to Trump

Israel Support & Past Tweets

Machado has publicly expressed support for Israel, drawing sharp criticism given the region’s complex geopolitics.

• On April 15, 2021, she posted greetings on X to Israel on its Independence Day and affirmed solidarity.
• She has stated that, if in power, she would reestablish diplomatic relations with Israel.
• Following the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, she condemned the violence and declared support for Israel’s fight against terrorism.

These stances have led critics to brand her as overly aligned with right-wing Israeli politics.

Accusations from CAIR & Other Groups

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) publicly condemned her Nobel award, citing her backing of Israel’s governing Likud party and alleged support for anti-Muslim movements in Europe.

In a statement, CAIR demanded Machado distance herself from those ties:

“We ask Machado to relinquish her support for the Likud party and the anti-Muslim fascism in Europe.”

Allegations of Being a U.S. Proxy

Critics also accuse Machado of being a U.S.-backed figure engaged in regime-change strategies:

• Michelle E. Ellener of CodePink, who coordinates Latin American campaigns, claimed Machado has served as a “spokesperson for democracy via foreign intervention” and supports neoliberal policies supported by foreign powers.
• Some argue that her alignment with Trump and American interests risks her credibility as a grassroots Venezuelan leader.

Thus, while she is lionized by many as a democratic champion, Machado is also deeply polarizing, with detractors citing geopolitical baggage, ideological alignment, and controversy over her alliances.

Western Media’s Interpretation & Narratives

The reactions across Western media have been mixed but largely sensational, often focusing less on the substantive challenges in Venezuela and more on the personal and ideological angles.

The Trump Angle

Many outlets highlighted that Machado’s win comes even as Donald Trump, who aggressively pushed for the prize, failed to receive it.

• People magazine framed the narrative as: “Trump Loses Nobel Peace Prize to María Corina Machado After Repeatedly Saying He Wants the Award.”
• Time wrote a headline: “Venezuelan Democracy Advocate María Corina Machado Receives 2025 Nobel Peace Prize” and noted Trump’s disappointment.
• Politico stressed Machado’s dedication to Trump and called it a “decisive support” message.

Thus, much of Western coverage framed the story as Trump being outmaneuvered by a foreign political figure, rather than focusing purely on Venezuelan dynamics.

Focus on Democracy-vs-Dictatorship

Other media adopted a more conventional frame-

• AP identified Machado as a “symbol of democratic resistance” under threat, noting the harsh conditions under Maduro.
• Reuters noted she lives in hiding, was barred from office, and called her win a recognition of her anti-dictatorial struggle.
• The Guardian called her win a recognition of her “dogged struggle to rescue the South American country from brutal authoritarianism.”

Betting Scandal & Speculation

A tangential but interesting subplot emerged around betting markets:

• The Guardian reported a sudden spike in bets for Machado shortly before the Nobel announcement, triggering speculation of leaks or insider info.
• Nobel officials acknowledged they would investigate the abnormal betting patterns.

That subplot added another layer of intrigue to what was already a media spectacle.

Implications for Venezuela’s Future

Boost to Opposition Morale

The Nobel recognition gives the Venezuelan opposition a moral and symbolic boost—particularly valuable in a context of widespread repression.

• Machado’s win underscores the international legitimacy of Venezuelan dissent.
• It may energize civil society and opposition groups to press for freer elections.

International Pressure on Maduro

With global attention focused on Venezuela, the Maduro regime may face mounting diplomatic pressure, sanctions scrutiny, and policing of human rights abuses.

Risk of Backlash & Escalation

However, this attention could provoke harsher repression-

• Maduro’s government might double down on arrests, censorship, and crackdowns to neutralize opposition momentum.
• The state media in Venezuela reportedly ignored or downplayed the Nobel announcement, framing it as interference by foreign right-wing interests.

Role of Trump and U.S. Policy

Given Machado’s alignment with Trump, U.S. involvement in Venezuelan affairs may intensify. Her mention of Trump ensures that U.S. foreign policy—especially from Republican quarters—becomes more entangled with Venezuelan democratic aspirations.

Changing Regional Dynamics

Latin American governments, especially those under leftist rule, will closely watch the fallout. Machado’s win may galvanize regional alliances or spark ideological pushback.

A Symbol of Hope or Polarization

Maria Corina Machado Nobel Peace Prize is not just a recognition of a Venezuelan dissident—it’s a lightning rod amplifying fault lines: democracy vs. authoritarianism, domestic activism vs. foreign influence, moral leadership vs. political allegiances.

For supporters, the Nobel nod confirms she is a courageous standard-bearer for Venezuelan democracy. For critics, her alliance with Trump and Israel, her neoliberal inclinations, and her perceived role in geopolitical maneuvering clouds that image.

New Delhi, Oct.11,2025:India Taliban Relations have entered a new and complex phase in 2025 as New Delhi opens high-level talks with the Taliban regime for the first time since the group’s return to power in Kabul in August 2021. The visit of Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to New Delhi marks a significant shift in India’s foreign policy approach — one that blends realism, strategy, and necessity-

While India had previously maintained a cautious distance from the Taliban, the recent engagement reflects a pragmatic shift in its diplomacy, aimed at safeguarding its long-term interests in Afghanistan and maintaining influence in a rapidly evolving regional order.

Taliban Foreign Minister in New Delhi

On Friday, Taliban’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, a figure listed under the United Nations Security Council’s sanctions list, arrived in New Delhi for a series of high-level meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

This is the first official visit by a Taliban minister to India since the group’s 2021 takeover. During the meeting, Jaishankar announced India’s decision to upgrade its “technical mission” in Kabul to a full-fledged embassy, signaling a gradual restoration of diplomatic presence that was suspended after the fall of the Ashraf Ghani government.

India has not formally recognized the Taliban regime — much like most of the international community — yet the optics of the meeting demonstrate a new phase of cautious engagement. Only Russia has officially recognized the Taliban so far.

Why India Is Engaging the Taliban Now

China established diplomatic channels with the Taliban immediately after the 2021 takeover, but India waited four years before making its move. Analysts say the timing of this renewed contact is strategic.

According to Dr. Anuradha Chenoy, former Dean of the School of International Studies at JNU, “Inviting Amir Khan Muttaqi is a wise decision by India. Ignoring the Taliban could increase instability in South Asia, especially with tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan intensifying.”

India’s renewed engagement aims to ensure that Afghanistan’s territory is not used for anti-India terrorism, while also creating space for economic and strategic cooperation that benefits both sides.

Counterterrorism and Regional Stability

A key element driving India Taliban Relations is their shared interest in combating terrorism. The Taliban regime sees the Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIS-K) as a direct threat to Afghanistan’s stability, while India remains deeply concerned about terrorism emanating from the region.

India has consistently raised its voice at international platforms against terrorism, and the Taliban, eager to gain legitimacy, has shown readiness to cooperate against ISIS-K. This convergence forms the backbone of their evolving diplomatic engagement.

Both sides agree on ensuring that Afghanistan’s soil will not be used against Indian interests, a concern that had dominated India’s policy decisions during the U.S. withdrawal and after.

China and Pakistan

India’s outreach to the Taliban also reflects broader regional calculations. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is expanding into Afghanistan, while Pakistan’s influence over the Taliban has historically been strong.

However, recent years have seen a rift between Islamabad and Kabul, with Pakistan conducting air strikes in Afghan territory — an act the Taliban condemned.

Strategic expert Brahma Chellaney described Muttaqi’s visit as “a setback for Pakistan” and “a turning point in India Taliban Relations,” signaling New Delhi’s intent to regain strategic space in Afghanistan.

India aims to prevent Afghanistan from becoming an exclusive Chinese or Pakistani sphere of influence, while the Taliban, seeking alternative partners, views India as a counterbalance to overdependence on Islamabad or Beijing.

Voices of Support and Skepticism

While many foreign policy experts welcome India’s move, not everyone is pleased. Afghan journalist Habib Khan expressed disappointment, writing on X (formerly Twitter):

“As an Afghan, I admire India’s contributions — the Salma Dam, Parliament, and roads — but normalizing ties with the Taliban feels like betrayal. They seized our country by force and suppressed women’s rights.”

Khan’s statement captures a widespread sentiment among Afghans who view the Taliban as an illegitimate regime. For India, balancing moral diplomacy and strategic realism remains a delicate act.

Economic and Cultural Links That Bind India and Afghanistan

For decades, India and Afghanistan have shared deep cultural, historical, and developmental ties. Before 2021, India invested over $3 billion in Afghanistan’s infrastructure — constructing the Afghan Parliament building, Salma Dam, Zaranj-Delaram Highway, and several hospitals and schools.

Even after the Taliban takeover, India continued to send humanitarian aid, including wheat, medicines, and COVID-19 vaccines.

“Afghanistan has always been a close friend of India, historically and culturally. Even Taliban officials respect India’s contributions. Governments may change, but the people-to-people bond remains strong.”

He also noted that Taliban representatives have assured India that no anti-India activities will be allowed from Afghan soil, emphasizing a new level of trust not seen during the 1990s.

Challenges in India Taliban Relations

Despite progress, several major challenges persist.

• India has not officially recognized the Taliban government, maintaining a cautious balance between dialogue and diplomatic restraint.
• Human rights violations, restrictions on women’s education, and lack of an inclusive political structure continue to raise ethical and global concerns.
• Excessive proximity to the Taliban could invite international criticism from Western nations wary of legitimizing the group.

Dr. Chenoy highlights this dilemma-

“India won’t suddenly recognize the Taliban, but it also can’t ignore them. Engagement is the only way to influence outcomes.”

The Hindu’s Diplomatic Affairs Editor Suhasini Haidar raised a provocative question:

“If India reopens its embassy in Kabul, will it accept a Taliban-appointed envoy in New Delhi? Will the black-and-white Taliban flag replace Afghanistan’s tricolor at the embassy?”

These symbolic but critical questions underline the uncertainty surrounding the next phase of India Taliban Relations.

Expert Opinions on the Diplomatic Rebalance

Analysts across think tanks view India’s latest move as a calculated diplomatic gamble.

Michael Kugelman, South Asia Director at the Wilson Centre, observed:

“India’s outreach shows flexibility and pragmatism. It allows New Delhi to protect its interests in Afghanistan while taking advantage of growing tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban.”

Harsh V. Pant from the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the Taliban’s estrangement from Pakistan gives India an opportunity to re-establish influence.

“Afghanistan is asserting independence from Pakistan, and India’s engagement gives it a platform to showcase this new autonomy.”

For India, the approach is clear: “Talk without recognition.” It allows dialogue, humanitarian cooperation, and security coordination while maintaining international credibility.

A Delicate Dance of Diplomacy

The evolving India Taliban Relations represent a pragmatic recalibration of New Delhi’s foreign policy — one driven by security, strategic, and humanitarian imperatives.

India’s decision to engage, rather than isolate, acknowledges the Taliban’s enduring control over Afghanistan. Yet it remains cautious, aware of the regime’s controversial record on human rights and women’s freedoms.

Oslo,Oct.10,2025:The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 has taken the world by surprise, as Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has been announced as this year’s laureate. The Nobel Committee honored her for “promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and fighting for freedom through peaceful and just means against dictatorship.”

This announcement has sparked global discussions, especially as many anticipated former U.S. President Donald Trump might finally receive the prize after repeatedly nominating himself and claiming credit for several global peace efforts.

The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 highlights the ongoing global struggle for democracy and underscores the power of non-violent resistance even under repressive regimes.

Who Is María Corina Machado

María Corina Machado, 58, is one of Venezuela’s most influential opposition figures and a powerful voice against President Nicolás Maduro’s authoritarian government. Despite repeated bans, arrests, and intimidation, she has continued to inspire millions in Venezuela to stand up for democratic reform.

Machado began her political career in the early 2000s as a reform advocate. She co-founded Súmate, a non-governmental organization dedicated to electoral transparency. Over time, she emerged as the symbolic leader of Venezuela’s pro-democracy movement.

In 2024, she was barred from running in Venezuela’s presidential elections, an act widely condemned by international observers, including the European Union and United Nations Human Rights Council Despite the ban, she continued to support her successor Edmundo González, who became the face of the opposition.

Her ability to rally crowds in the face of fear made her a beacon of hope for a nation desperate for change.

Nobel Committee’s Statement on the Award

The Nobel Committee praised Machado for being “a woman who kept the flame of democracy alive in deepening darkness.”

Committee chairman Jørgen Watne Frydnes said during the announcement in Oslo:

“María Corina Machado represents one of the most extraordinary examples of courage in modern Latin America. Even as democracy weakens globally, she reminds us that freedom demands sacrifice and resilience.”

The Committee emphasized that the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 celebrates not only Machado’s personal bravery but also the collective struggle of Venezuelans who continue to demand transparency, justice, and human rights.

Their statement added-

“Even when we disagree politically, defending the principles of popular governance remains the foundation of democracy. At a time when democratic values are under threat, protecting them becomes more important than ever.”

This recognition places Machado among notable Nobel laureates who have fought against authoritarianism — such as Aung San Suu Kyi and Nelson Mandela — though her circumstances are distinct, as she continues her struggle while in hiding within Venezuela.

Machado’s Emotional Reaction

Shortly after receiving the news, a visibly emotional Machado appeared in a video shared by the Nobel Institute, speaking with her colleague Edmundo González.

“I’m astonished!” she exclaimed.
González replied, “We are joyfully astonished.”

In the video, Machado repeatedly said “Oh my God” before expressing gratitude to the Committee. Her voice trembled as she said,

“This honor does not belong to me — it belongs to an entire society that has suffered and persevered. I am only one person among millions.”

Nobel Institute Director Kristian Berg Harpviken, who personally informed Machado about the award, became emotional during the call. His voice cracked as he congratulated her, highlighting how deeply this recognition resonated even within the Nobel administration.

Donald Trump’s Controversial Claims and Committee’s Response

The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 announcement also reignited conversations about Donald Trump, who has publicly claimed for years that he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his “unprecedented peace efforts.”

Trump has pointed to events like the Abraham Accords, the U.S.–North Korea diplomatic talks, and most recently, his claimed mediation in the Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as evidence of his qualifications.

When asked whether there was any political pressure to consider Trump, Nobel Committee Chairman Frydnes firmly stated:

“The Committee has faced campaigns and media attention before. Our decisions are always based on work done for peace and in accordance with Alfred Nobel’s will.”

He added that while the Committee respects public interest, “peace cannot be self-proclaimed; it must be earned through consistent moral courage and impact.”

This subtle but clear remark appeared to dismiss the notion that Trump’s efforts matched the spirit of the Nobel Peace Prize, reinforcing that the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 was grounded in enduring democratic struggle, not media campaigns.

Why the Decision Matters for Venezuela

The Nobel Committee’s decision is seen as a moral victory for Venezuela’s pro-democracy movement. For years, the country has endured hyperinflation, censorship, mass emigration, and political repression under President Nicolás Maduro.

By awarding the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 to Machado, the international community has effectively acknowledged the plight of Venezuelans seeking liberty and justice.

Political analysts say this award could increase international pressure on Maduro’s government and strengthen calls for free and fair elections.

Dr. Alicia Rojas, a Latin American political scholar, told Reuters:

“This Nobel Prize may not immediately change Venezuela’s politics, but it empowers citizens who feel forgotten. It validates their struggle.”

Global Reactions and Analysis

World leaders, human rights organizations, and activists have praised the decision.

• European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell congratulated Machado, calling her “a symbol of democratic resilience.”
• Amnesty International said the award “highlights Venezuela’s continuing human rights crisis.”
• Human Rights Watch noted that Machado’s recognition “underscores the global importance of defending freedom through peaceful resistance.”

However, some pro-Maduro voices dismissed the award as “Western interference,” arguing it was politically motivated.

Despite the mixed reactions, most global observers see the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 as a bold statement in Favor of human dignity and democratic persistence.

About the Nobel Peace Prize and Its Legacy

The Nobel Peace Prize, first awarded in 1901, honours individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to peace. Past laureates include Malala Yousafzai, Barack Obama, and the United Nations World Food Programme.

According to the official Nobel Prize website, the award follows the will of Alfred Nobel, who wished it to go to those who have done the most or best work for fraternity between nations and the promotion of peace.

By choosing Machado, the Committee continues its legacy of honouring individuals who challenge injustice through non-violence.

A Victory for Democracy

The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 awarded to María Corina Machado is more than an individual triumph — it is a testament to the resilience of democratic spirit in the face of oppression.

Her journey from being silenced to being globally recognized demonstrates that peaceful resistance can indeed reshape history.

While Donald Trump’s self-nomination stories may have dominated the headlines, the Nobel Committee’s decision re-centres the conversation on the true meaning of peace — not as political negotiation, but as moral perseverance.

New Delhi, Oct.10,2025:The ICMR Study 2025 has issued a stark warning to Indian households: overconsumption of rice and roti — staples of the Indian diet — could be driving an alarming rise in diabetes, obesity, and metabolic disorders across the country. Conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in collaboration with the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), this large-scale study offers deep insight into how India’s eating patterns are affecting public health-

According to the research, 62% of India’s daily energy intake comes from carbohydrates, primarily white rice, wheat, and processed grains. These foods, though culturally integral, are significantly contributing to poor metabolic health outcomes.

High Carbohydrate Dependence in Indian Diets

The ICMR Study 2025 examined food consumption habits across 30 states and union territories, involving adults aged 20 years and above. The results reveal a concerning pattern — most Indians rely heavily on refined carbohydrates while consuming inadequate protein and fibre.

The data showed-

• Carbohydrates: 62.3% of total daily energy
• Fats: 25.2%
• Proteins: only 12%

The study also highlighted that processed grains contribute 28.5% and whole grains contribute 16.2% to total carbohydrate intake. Such an imbalance between nutrient groups makes Indians highly vulnerable to metabolic conditions like Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Diabetes and Obesity Connection Explained

Published in Nature Medicine, the ICMR study notes that individuals consuming the highest levels of carbohydrates are 30% more likely to develop diabetes compared to those on low-carb diets. Additionally, the risks of general obesity increase by 22% and abdominal fat accumulation by 15%.

India already accounts for nearly one-fourth of the world’s diabetes cases, a number that continues to grow faster than in most countries. The report attributes this to excessive carbohydrate consumption, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle.

Processed vs Whole Grains – The Hidden Truth

While traditional wisdom suggests that whole grains like millets or brown rice are healthier alternatives, the ICMR Study 2025 warns that merely switching from processed to whole grains may not be enough.

The research indicates that even unprocessed wheat or millet flours do not significantly reduce diabetes risk when consumed in excess. This is because high carbohydrate intake — regardless of its source — leads to elevated blood sugar and insulin resistance over time.

Nutrition experts emphasize balancing grains with protein-rich foods and fibre, which help slow down sugar absorption.

What Experts Are Saying About the Findings

Dr. Vibhuti Rastogi, Senior Dietitian at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), told that Indian diets are indeed “too carb-heavy and too low in protein,” which accelerates the onset of lifestyle diseases.

“Both refined and simple carbohydrates, such as sugar, can increase diabetes risk. But when combined with low protein intake, the damage happens faster,” Dr. Rastogi explained.

Similarly, Nazneen Hussain, Head Dietitian at Dietetics for Nutrify Today (Mumbai), highlighted that the type of carbohydrate also matters.

“If you eat rotis made from refined flour, they’re almost as bad as polished rice. Choose coarse or fibre-rich flour to slow blood sugar spikes,” she advised.

She also noted that brown rice or unpolished small-grain rice are healthier alternatives but must be eaten in moderation and with fibre, dal, or vegetables for balance.

Regional Differences in Health Risks

The study found striking regional variations in obesity and metabolic disease rates:

• North India: 54% overweight, 37% obese, and 48% had abdominal obesity
• East India: Showed the best metabolic health indicators nationwide
• Overall: 83% of participants showed at least one metabolic risk factor

Additionally, 27% of adults nationwide suffer from hypertension, a condition often linked with excess carbohydrate and sodium intake. Interestingly, these trends showed little regional difference — indicating a nationwide dietary imbalance.

How to Reduce Carbohydrate-Related Health Risks

Experts recommend gradual dietary transitions rather than drastic eliminations. Here’s how to make daily Indian meals healthier, based on ICMR’s recommendations:

1. Reduce refined grains: Replace white rice with brown rice, millets, or quinoa.
2. Increase protein intake: Add dals, paneer, eggs, tofu, or lean meats.
3. Add healthy fats: Use nuts, seeds, and olive or mustard oil instead of saturated fats.
4. Control portion sizes: Especially for rice and roti at dinner.
5. Include fibre-rich foods: Vegetables, salads, and legumes improve digestion and metabolism.

Lifestyle Changes to Control Diabetes Risk

Beyond diet, the ICMR Study 2025 found that 61% of participants were physically inactive. Regular exercise can reduce Type 2 diabetes risk by up to 50%, according to global health data.

Recommended lifestyle changes–

• Walk or exercise at least 30 minutes daily
• Practice yoga or light resistance training
• Limit sugary drinks and late-night snacking
• Sleep 7–8 hours daily
• Get routine blood sugar check-ups, especially if above 30

Combining these habits with balanced nutrition can reverse early-stage metabolic disorders, experts say.

The Way Forward for a Healthier India

The ICMR Study 2025 is a wake-up call for India’s food culture. While rice and roti remain dietary staples, overreliance on these high-carb foods is quietly eroding public health. With nearly 83% of adults showing metabolic risks, the nation must rethink its traditional plate.

Nutrition experts unanimously agree — moderation, balance, and movement are key. By incorporating more proteins, healthy fats, and fibre, alongside regular physical activity, India can curb the rising tide of diabetes and obesity.