1. ’75 years of Indian Constitution a matter of pride’: PM Modi addresses Lok Sabha in special session
2. Jaishankar on India’s neighborhood: Vigil up at Myanmar border, eyes on Bangladesh
3. Lok Sabha to take up financial business first, bill on simultaneous polls later, says source
4. Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake arrives in New Delhi for three-day visit
5. Switzerland suspended ‘Most-Favoured Nation’ status to India

What Else

1. BJP questions Rajiv Gandhi Foundation’s past connection with ‘Soros-linked’ entity
2. India, Russia Agree Biggest-Ever Oil Deal – Reuters
3. 110 Charged After Clashing with NIA Team During Raid in Jhansi
4. Maharashtra Cabinet: 39 Mahayuti ministers take oath in Nagpur in presence of CM Fadnavis
5. Manipur police destroys 59 acres of illegal poppy cultivation in Ukhrul and Kangpokpi, two arrested
6. ‘Terrible tragedies’: Three Indian students killed in Canada, says New Delhi, raises concern with Ottawa
7. Myanmar: Bloody siege ends Myanmar army control of western border
8. Sheikh Hasina Mounts Fresh Attacks On Yunus
9. World Bank Cancels $500m Loan to Pakistan
10. Pakistan’s forex reserves top $12 billion for the first time since 2022
11. Centre now wants talks with Kabul, says KP CM
12. PLA releases electronic warfare ‘kill list’ for US carrier groups

—————-

’75 years of Indian Constitution a matter of pride’: PM Modi addresses Lok Sabha in special session

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha on Saturday, highlighting the significance of the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution.
• He expressed pride and gratitude to the makers and lawmakers, stating that this achievement is “extraordinary” and a testament to India’s resilience.
• He also touched on the abrogation of Article 370, calling it an obstacle to India’s unity.
• He criticized the Congress party, accusing them of changing the Constitution to attack freedom of expression and pursuing wrong policies.
• In response, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi invoked the tale of Eklavya from the Mahabharat, suggesting that the govt’s actions, such as implementing Agniveer and handling farmer protests, are hurting the youth of India.
• Gandhi also cited Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar’s remarks, questioning the BJP’s commitment to protecting the Constitution.
• The debate is part of a two-day special session of the Lok Sabha, marking 75 years since the Constitution was adopted.
• The Opposition has been accusing the BJP-govt of flouting the Constitution’s clauses, making this debate a crucial moment in the Winter Session of Parliament. (more)

Jaishankar on India’s neighborhood: Vigil up at Myanmar border, eyes on Bangladesh

• India has expressed concerns over the treatment of minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stating that the issue “has been a source of concern”.
• He informed the Lok Sabha that the Foreign Secretary raised the issue during his visit to Dhaka, and India expects B’desh to take measures to ensure the safety of minorities.
• This come after the interim govt accepted 88 incidents of communal violence against minorities, primarily Hindus, following the ouster of former PM Hasina on Aug 5.
• India has a good history of development projects with Bangladesh and hopes to settle down to a mutually beneficial and stable relationship with the new dispensation.
• In related news, India has also reviewed its open regime policy with Myanmar due to disturbed conditions in the country and is working to stop drugs from entering India.
• Additionally, Jaishankar reiterated India’s stance on wanting peace with Pakistan but emphasized that ties must be free of terrorism. (more)

Lok Sabha to take up financial business first, bill on simultaneous polls later, says source

• The Lok Sabha is set to prioritize financial business over the “One Nation, One Election” bill, which has been a topic of debate lately.
• The bill, approved by the Union Cabinet, aims to enable simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and all state Assemblies.
• This means that if implemented, Lok Sabha, Assembly, and local body elections would be held in the same year, if not at the same time.
• Key Points of the Bill:
• Simultaneous Elections: The bill proposes holding Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections together, with local body elections to be held within 100 days.
• Constitutional Amendments: At least five Articles of the Constitution need to be amended to implement the bill, which requires ratification by at least half of the states.
• Benefits: Supporters argue that simultaneous elections would enhance efficiency, reduce election expenses, and avoid voters’ fatigue.
• However, opposition parties have expressed concerns that the bill would marginalize regional voices, undermine federalism, and threaten the democratic framework. Some have even labeled it as “impractical” and “draconian”.
• The bill’s fate remains uncertain, and its implementation would require significant legislative hurdles to be overcome. (more)

Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake arrives in New Delhi for three-day visit

• Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake arrived in New Delhi yesterday for a 3-day state visit to India, marking his first overseas trip since taking office.
• He was warmly received by Minister of State Dr. L Murugan, and the Ministry of External Affairs Spox described the visit as an opportunity to deepen India-Sri Lanka ties and boost their people-centric partnership.
• During his visit, President Dissanayake is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu.
• He’ll also attend a business event in Delhi to promote investment and commercial linkages between India and Sri Lanka.
• Additionally, he’ll visit Bodh Gaya, a significant Buddhist site.
• This visit is particularly notable, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had extended an invitation to President Dissanayake after his victory, making him the first foreign dignitary to visit Sri Lanka since the new govt took power. (more)

Switzerland suspended ‘Most-Favoured Nation’ status to India

• The Most-Favoured Nation (MFN) status between India and Switzerland is a clause in their Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) that ensures India receives the same favorable tax treatment as other OECD countries.
• However, Switzerland has decided to revoke this status due to a 2023 Supreme Court ruling in the Nestle case, which stated that the MFN clause doesn’t automatically apply when a country joins the OECD.
• Starting Jan 1, 2025, Switzerland will impose a 10% tax on dividends payable to Indian tax residents, up from the current 5%.
• This decision is seen as a retaliatory step, and experts warn it may lead to increased tax liabilities for Indian entities operating in Switzerland and impact Swiss investments
• Key Impacts:
• Effect on Indian Companies with ODI Structures: Indian companies with overseas direct investment structures involving subsidiaries in Switzerland will be particularly affected by the increased Swiss withholding tax on dividends. (more)

BJP questions Rajiv Gandhi Foundation’s past connection with ‘Soros-linked’ entity

• The BJP has raised questions about the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation’s past connection with a Soros-linked entity.
• Sonia Gandhi, as the chairperson of the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, had a partnership with the George Soros Foundation.
• The BJP claims that this partnership shows the influence of foreign funding on Indian organizations.
• The party also alleges that Sonia Gandhi, as the Co-President of the Forum of the Democratic Leaders in Asia Pacific (FDL-AP) Foundation, is linked to an organization financed by the George Soros Foundation.
• The FDL-AP Foundation has reportedly expressed views that treat Kashmir as a separate entity, which the BJP says highlights the influence of foreign entities on India’s internal affairs.
• Additionally, the BJP has pointed out that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has publicly acknowledged George Soros as an “old friend”.
• The party has also accused Rahul Gandhi of having a “strong and dangerous relationship” with George Soros-funded OCCRP, which he used as a source to criticize Adani. (more)

India, Russia Agree Biggest-Ever Oil Deal – Reuters

• Russia’s state oil firm Rosneft has signed a massive 10-year deal with Indian private refiner Reliance to supply 500,000 barrels of crude oil/day, worth around $13 billion.
• This is the country’s biggest-ever energy deal with India, and it’s a significant development in their growing energy partnership.
• Key Highlights: Rosneft will supply 500,000 barrels of crude oil per day to Reliance.
• Worth $13 Billion: The deal is valued at around $13 billion, making it the largest energy deal between Russia and India.
• Half of Rosneft’s Exports: The new deal will account for roughly half of Rosneft’s seaborne oil exports from Russian ports.
• Cheaper Crude Supply: Refiners in India are profiting from a cheaper crude supply, with Russian oil being $3 to $4 per barrel cheaper than alternatives due to sanctions.
• Timely Development: The contract is a boost for Russian President Vladimir Putin, as European countries seek to reduce their reliance on Russian gas.
• This deal strengthens India’s position as Russia’s top oil buyer, and it’s a significant step in their growing energy partnership. (more)

110 Charged After Clashing with NIA Team During Raid in Jhansi

• A total of 110 individuals have been charged for allegedly clashing with a National Investigation Agency team during a raid in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.
• The incident occurred when the NIA team was attempting to detain a cleric as part of an investigation into alleged foreign funding from Jaish-e-Mohammad, a Pakistan-based terrorist organization.
• NIA Raid: The NIA team had conducted a raid at the residence of the cleric, who was suspected of receiving foreign funding from Jaish-e-Mohammad.
• Mob Interference: A mob of around 200-250 people allegedly gathered at the scene and clashed with the NIA team, freeing the cleric from detention.
• Charges Filed: The police have filed charges against 110 individuals, including 11 who have been identified, for allegedly obstructing the NIA team and freeing the cleric.
• NIA Probe: The NIA is investigating the alleged foreign funding from Jaish-e-Mohammad to the cleric and other individuals in the region.
• Police Action: The police are taking action against those who allegedly clashed with the NIA team and freed the cleric.
• This incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in conducting investigations and raids, especially in sensitive cases involving national security. (more)
• Madrasa Teaching Terror Techniques: Investigation reveals a madrasa teaching train derailment techniques, exposing a larger conspiracy and leading to arrests.
• Security Agencies on High Alert: Incidents highlight the need for increased vigilance and security measures to prevent future incidents. (more)

Maharashtra Cabinet: 39 Mahayuti ministers take oath in Nagpur in presence of CM Fadnavis

• The Maharashtra Cabinet expansion took place today in Nagpur, with several ministers from the BJP-NCP-Shiv Sena Mahayuti alliance taking the oath of office.
• The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar.
• Ministers Took the Oath: BJP Leaders: Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil, Chandrakant Patil, Ashish Shelar, Pankaja Munde, Ganesh Naik, Jayakumar Rawal, Shivendraraje Bhosale, and Girish Mahajan
• Shiv Sena Leaders: Uday Samant, Gulabrao Patil, Dadaji Bhuse, Sanjay Rathod, Sanjay Shirsat, and Bharat Gogavale
• NCP Leaders: Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dattatray Bharne, Aditi Tatkare, Manikrao Kokate, and Narhari Zirwal
• This cabinet expansion comes over 3 weeks after the Mahayuti alliance won a landslide victory in the state elections, securing over 230 seats in the 288-member Assembly.
• The swearing-in ceremony took place a day before the winter session of the Maharashtra legislature. (more)

Manipur police destroys 59 acres of illegal poppy cultivation in Ukhrul and Kangpokpi, two arrested

• Manipur police have dealt a significant blow to illegal poppy cultivation, destroying 59 acres of it in Ukhrul and Kangpokpi districts.
• This move intensifies the war against drugs, with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh praising the efforts of the security forces.
• In Ukhrul, a joint operation led to the arrest of two individuals, Letkhohao Haokip and Hegou Khongsai, and the destruction of 45 acres of poppy cultivation.
• Meanwhile, 14 acres of poppy plantations were destroyed in Kangpokpi district.
• The state’s actions are part of a larger effort to combat drug threats.
• In fact, Manipur has seen a 60% decline in opium poppy cultivation over the past 3 years, with districts like Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Senapati showing significant reductions. (more)

‘Terrible tragedies’: Three Indian students killed in Canada, says New Delhi, raises concern with Ottawa

• 3 Indian Students Murdered in Canada, Confirms New Delhi
• In a shocking incident, three Indian students have been murdered in Canada, the Indian government has confirmed.
• The students were found dead in a house in Toronto, and the police have launched an investigation into the matter.
• Victims’ Identities: The Indian government has not released the names of the victims, but it is reported that they were all in their early 20s.
• Circumstances of Death: The police found the bodies of the three students in a house in Toronto, but the exact circumstances of their deaths are still unclear.
• Investigation Underway: The Toronto Police Service has launched an investigation into the matter and is working to determine the cause of death.
• Reaction from Indian Govt: The Indian govt has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and is working with the Canadian authorities to assist.
• Assistance to Families: The Indian High Commission in Canada is in touch with the victims’ families and is providing them with necessary assistance.
• This incident has sent shockwaves through the Indian community in Canada, and there are concerns about the safety of Indian students studying abroad.
• The Indian govt has assured that it is working closely with the Canadian authorities to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in Canada. (more)

[Neighborhood]

Myanmar: Bloody siege ends Myanmar army control of western border

• The Arakan Army (AA) has captured the BGP5 barracks in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, marking a significant defeat for the military junta.
• The barracks were the last stronghold of the military in the state.
• The battle was intense, with the AA using artillery, rockets, and rifle fire to breach the base’s defenses.
• Over 450 soldiers were killed, and many more were injured.
• The AA’s victory gives them control of the entire 270km border with Bangladesh.
• The group is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, which has inflicted significant defeats on the junta since last year.
• However, concerns are rising about the treatment of the Rohingya population under AA administration.
• Many Rohingyas have been expelled from towns conquered by the AA, and there are fears of further persecution.
• The AA has promised to include all communities in its vision for a future independent of the central govt, but its actions have raised concerns among human rights groups. (more)

Sheikh Hasina Mounts Fresh Attacks On Yunus

• Sheikh Hasina, ousted Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has been living in exile in India since August.
• Her departure came after massive anti-government protests forced her to resign.
• Hasina’s Allegations: In a statement released on the eve of Bangladesh’s Victory Day (Bijoy Dibosh), Hasina launched a scathing attack on Md Yunus, the interim leader of Bangladesh.
• She labeled Yunus a “fascist” and accused him of leading an “undemocratic group” that has no responsibility towards the people.
• Suppression of Liberation War Spirit: Hasina alleged that Yunus’ government aims to suppress the spirit of the Liberation War, which led to Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971.
• Support to Anti-Independence Forces: She claimed that Yunus’ government is secretly supporting radical communal forces that oppose Bangladesh’s independence.
• Lack of Accountability: Hasina stated that Yunus’ govt has no accountability to the people, as it was not democratically elected.
• Rise in Prices: She criticized the government for its failure to control rising prices, which are burdening the people. (more)

World Bank Cancels $500m Loan to Pakistan

• The World Bank has canceled a $500 million loan to Pakistan, citing its failure to implement key reforms in its energy sector.
• The loan was part of a larger package to support Pakistan’s energy sector reforms.
• Reasons: Lack of Progress on Reforms: The WB stated that Pakistan had failed to make satisfactory progress on implementing the agreed-upon reforms, which were a condition for the loan.
• Inadequate Tariff Adjustments: The bank also expressed concerns over the govt’s inability to adjust tariffs in line with the agreed-upon plan.
• Impact on Pakistan:
• Economic Implications: The cancellation of the loan is likely to have significant economic implications for Pakistan, which is already facing a severe economic crisis.
• Future Funding: The move may also impact Pakistan’s ability to secure future funding from international institutions.
• The cancellation of the loan highlights the challenges Pakistan faces in implementing economic reforms and meeting the conditions set by international lenders. (more)

Pakistan’s forex reserves top $12 billion for the first time since 2022

• Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves have surged past $12 billion for the first time since 2022, marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic recovery.
• According to the State Bank of Pakistan, the foreign exchange reserves stood at $15.467 billion in Oct 2024, up from $15.401 billion in the previous month.
• This increase is a welcome boost for Pakistan’s economy, which has been facing challenges in recent years.
• The country’s foreign exchange reserves had dwindled to critically low levels, making it difficult for the government to meet its international payment obligations.
• The improvement in foreign exchange reserves is attributed to various factors, including the receipt of loans from international organizations, increased remittances from overseas Pakistanis, and a slight improvement in the country’s trade balance.
• While this development is positive, it’s essential for Pakistan to continue implementing economic reforms to ensure sustainable growth and stability.
• The country still faces significant economic challenges, including a large trade deficit, high inflation, and a substantial public debt. (more)

Centre now wants talks with Kabul, says KP CM

• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur criticized the federal govt for initially rejecting his proposal to engage in talks with the Afghan interim govt, only to later pursue the same strategy.
• Gandapur emphasized the need for dialogue with Afghanistan to resolve issues, particularly regarding the law and order situation in KP, which he believes cannot be resolved without talks.
• Gandapur proposed talks with the Afghan interim govt but was initially rejected.
• The federal govt later approached him to pursue the same strategy.
• He acknowledged the presence of 16,000 to 18,000 militants on the Pakistani side of the border and 22,000 to 24,000 in Afghanistan.
• Gandapur criticized the Afghan interim government for failing to maintain peace within its borders. (more)

PLA releases electronic warfare ‘kill list’ for US carrier groups

• The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has released an electronic warfare “kill list” targeting US carrier groups, according to a report by the South China Morning Post.
• Key Points: The PLA has demonstrated its electronic warfare capability by releasing a “kill list” of US carrier groups.
• Targeting US Carrier Groups: The list specifically targets US carrier groups, highlighting the PLA’s focus on countering the US military’s presence in the region.
• Psychological Warfare: The release of the “kill list” is seen as a form of psychological warfare, aimed at intimidating the US military and its allies.
• Implications: Escalating Tensions: The release of the “kill list” is likely to escalate tensions between the US and China, particularly in the South China Sea.
• Military Build-up: The PLA’s electronic warfare capability is part of China’s broader military build-up, aimed at countering the US military’s presence in the region.
• Regional Security: The development highlights the ongoing competition between the US and China for regional security dominance.
• US Response: The US military has not publicly responded to the release of the “kill list”.

Regional Concerns: The development has raised concerns among US allies in the region, who are increasingly wary of China’s military expansion. (more)