1. 10 Kuki militants killed in Manipur after they attack military camp, 1 jawan injured
2. PM Modi meets Russian Dy PM Manturov, says ‘happy’ to see both sides working together
3. PM Modi congratulates ‘friend’ Ramgoolam on winning Mauritius elections, invites him to India
4. Anti-terror agency conducts pan-India raids in Al-Qaeda terror funding probe
5. Campaign ends for 1st phase of Jharkhand polls and bypolls to 31 Assembly and a Lok Sabha seats

What Else

1. India- Russia joint venture bid to manage China-built Mattala airport goes awry
2. Pannun Announces New Dates of Temple Attacks in Canada, India Terms Threats ‘Terror Acts’: Intel Sources
3. Abdullah eyes return of twin capital system, holds meeting of Ministers, officials in Jammu
4. Two US nationals arrested in Bihar for attempting to cross into Nepal illegally
5. Mike Waltz, India Caucus head, is Trump’s NSA; and China hawk Rubio as Secretary of State: Report
6. Bangladesh: Dhaka tense as Awami League supporters beaten on Noor Hossain Day
7. Beijing renews resolve to help Pakistan in tackling terrorism
8. Chief of General Staff meets PLA commander in Beijing to strengthen bilateral military cooperation
9. Pakistan: Solarisation, falling power demand worry IMF
10. China: Mysterious buoys: Top spy agency crowdsources help to track foreign devices at sea
11. Two Indian security chiefs to visit Nepal this month

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10 Kuki militants killed in Manipur after they attack military camp, 1 jawan injured

• At least 10 Kuki militants were gunned down in Manipur’s Jiribam on Mon after they attacked a CRPF camp around 3.30 pm, sources said.
• Following the attack on the camp, the CRPF retaliated and eliminated 10 Kuki militants and also recovered several weapons from their possession, sources further added.
• A CRPF jawan was critically injured in the incident and is currently receiving treatment.
• Earlier in the day, the Kuki militants had attacked the Borobekra Police Station, prompting retaliatory fire by the police.
• The armed militants also set fire to 3-4 houses belonging to the Meitei community in Jakuradhor.
• The confrontation began around 10 am on Sun when suspected Kuki militants attacked farmers harvesting paddy in the Meitei-inhabited areas of Sanasabi Loukol and nearby.
• The Imphal East police, along with personnel from the 4^th Mahar Regiment and the 119^th Battalion of the BSF, responded to the attack, leading to a 40-minute exchange of gunfire.
• Violence in the region had intensified earlier in the week, with two civilian casualties reported on Fri-Sat.
• In Jiribam district, a 31-year-old woman was killed in an attack, and Bishnupur, a 34-year-old woman working in the paddy fields succumbed to bullet injuries. (more)

PM Modi congratulates ‘friend’ Ramgoolam on winning Mauritius elections, invites him to India

• Hours after Mauritius incumbent PM Pravind Jugnauth conceded defeat in Sun’s parliamentary election, PM Modi on Mon congratulated Mauritian leader Navin Ramgoolam, who is all set to take over the PM’s post for the 3^rd time and invited him to India.
• Conceding defeat earlier in the day, Jugnauth said that his political alliance was headed for a huge defeat following Sunday’s parliamentary election.
• Voters went to the polls to elect lawmakers for the 62 parliamentary seats for the next five years, from a list of 68 parties and 5 political alliances.
• Whichever party or coalition gets more than half the seats in parliament also wins the PM’s post. (more)

PM Modi meets Russian Dy PM Manturov, says ‘happy’ to see both sides working together

• PM Modi met with Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov on Mon to discuss strengthening the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
• Modi expressed delight in the progress made by both countries in implementing decisions to boost cooperation.
• Key Discussion Areas: Enhancing cooperation and bilateral trade
• Energy: Expanding energy resources and exploring new long-term contracts
• Connectivity: Developing transport corridors and logistics links
• Manturov will also attend the 25^th Session of the Intergovernmental Russian-Indian Commission with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to discuss bilateral initiatives and explore new areas for collaboration ¹.
• This meeting follows Modi’s recent visit to Russia for the 22^nd India-Russia Annual Summit with President Putin, where he was awarded the “Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle” for fostering deeper ties between the two nations. (more)

Anti-terror agency conducts pan-India raids in Al-Qaeda terror funding probe

• The National Investigation Agency raids across 9 locations in multiple states, including J&K, Karnataka, WB, Bihar, Tripura, and Assam, targeting alleged terror activities linked to Bangladeshi nationals associated with Al-Qaeda.
• The goal was to identify and arrest individuals suspected of supporting and funding Al-Qaeda’s plans to destabilize India.
• Findings: Banking transaction records, digital devices, and documents linked to terror funding were confiscated during the operation.
• Al-Qaeda Sympathizers: The raided individuals are suspected sympathizers of a Bangladesh-based Al-Qaeda network aiming to radicalize vulnerable Indian youth.
• Ongoing Investigation: The raids are part of a 2023 case involving Bangladesh-based AQ operatives conspiring with detained individuals to promote terrorist activities.
• Previous Charges: In Nov last year, the NIA filed a chargesheet against 5 suspects, plus 4 Bangladeshi and 1 Indian, for using forged documents to radicalize young Indian Muslims and secure funds for the terror organization. (more)

Campaign ends for 1^st phase of Jharkhand polls and bypolls to 31 Assembly and a Lok Sabha seats

• Jharkhand Assembly Elections and Bypolls: Campaigning concluded for phase 1 of Jharkhand Assembly elections and bypolls in 33 Assembly constituencies.
• Polling for 31 seats will take place on Nov 13.
• Key contests in the first phase include Seraikella, Ranchi, Jamshedpur West, Jaganathpur, and Jamshedpur East.
• Wayanad Lok Sabha Bypoll: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra makes electoral debut, facing BJP’s Navya Haridas and CPI’s Sathyan Mokeri.
• Bypoll necessitated after Rahul Gandhi vacated the seat following victory from Raebareli in 2024 Lok Sabha polls. (more)
• No transfer of land to ‘infiltrators’ who marry tribal women in Jharkhand: Amit Shah
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that if the BJP comes to power in Jharkhand, they will introduce legislation to prevent infiltrators who marry tribal women from acquiring land during an election rally in Seraikela.
• The proposed law to prevent the transfer of land to infiltrators and reclaim land already acquired under such circumstances, returning it to the original tribal families.
• Additionally, Shah accused the ruling JMM-Congress-RJD alliance of corruption, citing several large-scale scams, including a Rs 1,000 crore MNREGA scam and a Rs 3.90 lakh crore misappropriation of central government funds.
• The BJP has promised to send corrupt leaders behind bars if they form the govt in Jharkhand.
• Key Points: Reclaiming land already acquired by infiltrators
• Promise to send corrupt leaders behind bars. (more)

India- Russia joint venture bid to manage China-built Mattala airport goes awry

• Sri Lanka’s plan to hand over the management of Mattala International Airport to an India-Russia joint venture is likely to be scrapped due to legal hurdles.
• The previous govt had partnered with India’s Shaurya Aeronautics Pvt Ltd and Russia’s Airports of Regions to manage the airport for 30 years.
• However, the Civil Aviation Authority Act states that only Airport and Aviation Services (Pvt) Ltd. (AASL) has the authority to manage airports in the country.
• The Sri Lankan authorities are unwilling to grant the necessary license, and the company hasn’t communicated with them in a long time.
• The project’s fate will be decided by the new govt after the general election.
• The airport, built with Chinese financial assistance, has significantly developed in Sri Lanka’s aviation sector. (more)

Pannun Announces New Dates of Temple Attacks in Canada, India Terms Threats ‘Terror Acts’: Intel Sources

• Gurpatwant Pannun, founder of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), has threatened to attack Hindu temples in Canada on Nov 16-17, specifically targeting Indian diplomats at Kalibari Mandir in Mississauga and Triveni Mandir in Brampton.
• This comes after recent clashes between Khalistani protesters and Hindu devotees in Brampton and Surrey.
• PM Modi condemned the violence, calling it a “cowardly attempt” to intimidate Indian diplomats, and urged the Canadian govt to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.
• India has expressed concerns about the safety of its nationals in Canada and criticized the Canadian government’s alleged support for Khalistani separatists. (more)

Abdullah eyes return of twin capital system, holds meeting of Ministers, officials in Jammu

• Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is reviving Jammu and Kashmir’s twin capital system, starting with a meeting at Jammu’s Secretariat, the winter capital.
• This was his first official visit after taking office in Srinagar on Oct 16.
• The Darbar Move, a 150-year-old tradition, was suspended in 2020 but may be restored next year.
• Darbar Move’s Significance: The practice allowed govt offices to function in Srinagar from May to Oct and in Jammu from Nov to May, acting as a cross-cultural bridge between the two regions.
• However, the J&K High Court noted its inefficiencies, including wastage of time and resources.
• Restoration Plans: Official sources indicate a formal restoration next year, with growing voices in Jammu demanding the revival.
• The CM’s visit and meeting reflect his commitment to fostering a collaborative working environment.
• Background: This was introduced by Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1872, and involved shifting 151 govt departments twice a year.
• Over 10k employees changed locations, utilizing hundreds of buses and trucks. (more)

Two US nationals arrested in Bihar for attempting to cross into Nepal illegally

• Two U.S. citizens from California were arrested in Bihar’s Madhubani on Sat for crossing Nepal without valid travel documents.
• The couple, consisting of a woman born in Nepal who later obtained U.S. citizenship, was intercepted by security personnel from the 48^th battalion of SSB near the Betaunha border outpost ¹.
• 2 local individuals who provided logistical support were also taken into custody.
• The police have registered a case and are conducting further investigations.
• The arrested couple was jointly interrogated by the police, SSB, and other concerned agencies. (more)

Mike Waltz, India Caucus head, is Trump’s NSA; and China hawk Rubio as Secretary of State: Report

• President-elect Donald Trump has selected Florida Representative Mike Waltz as his National Security Advisor.
• Waltz, a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, is expected to bring a hawkish approach to national security.
• He’s a staunch advocate for strong defense strategies, particularly concerning relations with India and countering China.
• Additionally, Trump has nominated US Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.
• Rubio is known for his strong-arm approach to US foes and support for key alliances.
• He’s a vocal advocate for strengthening ties with India, positioning the country as crucial in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Key Points: TheNational Security Approach would be a Hawkish stance on China and robust defense strategies
• India-US Relations: Strengthening ties, particularly in defense and security cooperation
• China Policy: Hardline stance, criticizing human rights abuses and aggressive actions
• Foreign Policy Experience: Support for NATO, strong approach to the Hamas-Israel conflict (more, more)

[Neighborhood]

Bangladesh: Dhaka tense as Awami League supporters beaten on Noor Hossain Day

• Members of an influential Bangladeshi students’ group that played a key role in toppling PM Sheikh Hasina’s govt prevented Awami League supporters from staging a planned rally here on Sun, chasing and assaulting the party activists.
• Dhaka remains tense after several Awami League supporters were beaten on Sun during a protest march commemorating Noor Hossain Day.
• The incident occurred before the AL’s central office on Bangabandhu Avenue.
• Noor Hossain was a political activist and leader of the Jubo League, killed in 1987 during the anti-Ershad movement.
• The AL had planned a rally to mark the occasion, its first major move since the govt’s overthrow on Aug 5.
• However, the interim govt, led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, denied permission for the protest, labeling the Awami League a “fascist party”.
• Tensions escalated with a counter-gathering by the anti-discrimination student movement, demanding the trial of AL leaders. (more)

Beijing renews resolve to help Pakistan in tackling terrorism

• China has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and socio-economic development, despite recent attacks on Chinese citizens.
• Chinese foreign ministry spox emphasized that China will continue to support Pakistan in fighting terrorism and protecting its citizens working abroad.
• The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects have been targeted by terrorists, heightening Beijing’s security concerns.
• Spox suggested that these attacks aim to strain bilateral relations and undermine trust and progress within the CPEC framework.
• Lin reiterated China’s dedication to CPEC and its economic partnership with Pakistan, despite security challenges.
• He warned that attempts to undermine mutual trust and cooperation between the two countries will not succeed.
• This comes amid tensions between China and Pakistan, sparked by a public exchange between Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and Pakistan’s Foreign Office.
• Ambassador Jiang expressed frustration over repeated attacks on Chinese nationals, urging Pakistan to enhance security measures.
• Key Points: China’s Continued support for Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and socio-economic development
• Security Concerns: Heightened concerns due to attacks on Chinese nationals working on CPEC projects
• CPEC Importance: Key component of China-Pakistan cooperation aimed at bolstering Pakistan’s economy (more)
• Bilateral Tensions: The ambassador expressed frustration over repeated attacks on Chinese nationals in Pakistan, calling the situation “unacceptable”.
• Pakistan’s FO, found the ambassador’s remarks “perplexing” and uncharacteristic of the traditional diplomatic rapport between the nations.
• This tension comes despite the two countries’ long-standing strategic cooperative partnership, with China being one of Pakistan’s closest allies.
• However, China’s concerns about the safety of its citizens and investments in Pakistan, particularly in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects, have led to increased pressure on Pakistan to improve security. (more)

Chief of General Staff meets PLA commander in Beijing to strengthen bilateral military cooperation

• Pakistan’s Chief of General Staff, Lt Gen Mohd Owais Dastagir, recently met with PLA Commander General Li Qiaoming at People’s Liberation Army headquarters in Beijing.
• The meeting centered around strengthening bilateral military cooperation and addressing global and regional security concerns.
• Gen Dastagir offered condolences for the lives lost in the Karachi attack and reassured General Li that Pakistan would enhance protection for Chinese citizens.
• General Li “acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts” to improve security for Chinese nationals in the region.
• Enhanced Cooperation: Strengthening bilateral military ties and combating common threats to regional peace and development
• Collaboration: Advancing military education, training, equipment, and technology
• This visit underscores the growing military alliance between Pakistan and China, built on mutual support and shared security interests.
• Their partnership has deepened significantly over the past decade, with increased joint exercises, equipment sharing, and staff exchanges (more)

Pakistan: Solarisation, falling power demand worry IMF

• The International Monetary Fund has raised concerns about Pakistan’s strategy to address declining electricity demand due to increased solar panel adoption and surplus imported gas.
• Pakistan’s electricity demand has dropped by 8% in the first quarter of this fiscal year, and power generation in September was 10% below projections.
• The IMF questioned Pakistan’s plans to manage the solarisation challenge and surplus imported gas.
• Solarisation Challenge: Increasing trend of installing rooftop solar panels, reducing electricity demand
• Surplus Imported Gas: 1000mmcfd surplus gas due to low demand in the power sector
• GIDC Dues: Over Rs400 billion unrecovered dues to Gas Infrastructure Development Cess
• The IMF also expressed dissatisfaction with Pakistan’s response to solar use and urged the energy ministry to take the lead.
• Pakistan proposed allowing industries to run on imported gas at a full-cost recovery basis. (more)

China: Mysterious buoys: Top spy agency crowdsources help to track foreign devices at sea

• China’s Ministry of State Security has issued a public call to identify and report suspicious oceanic buoys potentially used by foreign militaries to gather sensitive maritime data.
• Key Points: Foreign powers allegedly repurposing buoys for covert data collection
• Three types of buoys: military-use, dual-use, and research buoys disguised for espionage
• MSS urges public vigilance to maintain national security integrity
• Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious buoys, especially those dropped by foreign aircraft or with anomalous data transmission
• The move follows heightened concerns over buoys used for spying in the South China Sea, including incidents involving the US, Australia, and other regional nations.
• The MSS seeks to counter potential threats to China’s submarine operations and maritime security. (more)

Two Indian security chiefs to visit Nepal this month

• Despite cooled political relations between Kathmandu and New Delhi, regular mechanisms between the two countries remain on track.
• Following KP Oli’s election as prime minister, Nepal is set to receive two high-level visits from Indian security agencies ahead of Oli’s December visit to China.
• Key Visits: Gen Upendra Dwivedi: Indian Army chief arriving on Nov 20 to receive the honorary rank of General of the Nepal Army
• Amrit Mohan Prasad: Director General of India’s Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) visiting on Nov 15 for the eighth annual coordination meeting
• These visits aim to strengthen coordination and collaboration between the two border-guarding forces, focusing on curbing trans-border crimes and human trafficking.
• The Indian Army is Nepal’s major military donor, and these meetings will facilitate mutual capacity-building efforts. (more)