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Assam-Mizoram Row: A brief analysis from a Regional, Geo-Political & Security Perspective

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Assam Mizoram Clash
Assam Mizoram Clash
“You can change friends, not neigbours.”- Former PM Late AB Vajpayee.

Assam as the elder sister:

The above-mentioned quote was said by former PM Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji. During the 2003 India-Pakistan bilateral summit held in Agra. This particular quote can be apt with the ongoing border dispute between the NE states of Assam & Mizoram. Assam is the gateway to the entire NE region land route-railway & road transport. It is laden with a lot of responsibilities as the elder sister among the seven sister states. The recent dispute between the Assam and Mizoram, if escalates again, can have a greater geopolitical and security implications.

Ethnic overlap:

The flow of Burmese refugees in Mizoram following the recent military coup in Myanmar highlights the question about the global migrant crisis. The fate of the uprooted refugees from a conflict zone in a foreign land. Mizoram however shares an approximately 500 km long porous border with the Chin state of Myanmar. It is the home of the majority Kuki-Chin speaking communities of Myanmar.

Thus, also acts as the sign for the sense of linguistic and ethnic belongingness, as the Mizo language is a part of the Kuki-Chin language family. These refugees from Myanmar welcomed by the Mizo hospitality, considering the ethnic overlapping. Further exemplified by news report (June this year) said the allocation of funds by Mizoram for the refugee on humanitarian grounds. However, rehabilitating several refugees automatically doubles the state’s resources which also includes land. Also, speculated that the recent border dispute between the two states over land might be having an angle, determined from this perspective from Mizoram’s side.

Assam border concerns:

Assam already has boundary dispute with the neighbouring states of Meghalaya, Nagaland and even Arunachal Pradesh. It is now facing problems with Mizoram. This led to a violent incident, witnessed the death of Assam Police jawans along with many jawans being injured.

Assam and Mizoram:

Let‘s examine the geopolitical and security dimensions of the crisis between the two states. The People’s Republic of China (China/PRC), an emerging hegemon of the 21st century has got a significant number of stakes in India’s NE region. From claiming Arunachal Pradesh as their territory of South Tibet to supporting the last remnants of the NE insurgents against the Indian state. Thereby acting as an invisible foreign hand in destabilizing the region. China’s role and influence can’t be ignored, as its footprints are already expanding the South East Asian region. It is India’s destination in the “Act East initiative” and its route is obviously via the NE region of India. Enhancing the Act East initiative means synchronising the overall development of the NE region from infrastructure to connectivity, seen a pace since 2014. This includes the Kaladan Multi-modal project too where Mizoram is a major stakeholder.

Consequences:

A deteriorated state of the relationship will lead to Assam not being able to extract benefits from Mizoram and vice versa. Disturbance along the Assam-Mizoram border can further ignite the other states to demand their territorial claims over the boundary issue. In 2017 Hindustan Times reported the statement by the Chinese state media saying ‘rising Hindu Nationalism’ hijacked India’s China Policy.

Conclusion:

Considering the ideological leanings of the current ruling party in Assam, it will be not wrong if we consider the China factor here. It may be having a diabolical agenda of creating instability in India’s NE region. With motive to disrupt the ongoing developmental works in the region, by covertly provoking certain mischievous elements. If the crisis escalates again in future, it will be detrimental to both sides, considering the dissatisfaction by the people of Assam.

Above all, in January 2019, massive demonstrations against the ‘Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016’ (Now CAA) took place in Mizoram which even witnessed signs that said “Hello China..Bye Bye India”.

Slogans like these only mean providing an upper hand and leverage to the adversarial nation of China. They can take enormous advantage of it for their nefarious agenda about which I mentioned above. If similar outbreak of a similar or crisis resurfaces then external actors will indirectly or covertly fulfil their expansionist objective. Therefore, a peaceful settlement framework under the aegis of New Delhi is a must. So, that it prevents the domestic crisis/issue from being used by India’s adversaries.

Also, Read| IIT Bombay allows Afghani students to join classes

Assam- Mizoram Border Dispute, 6 killed

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Assam Mizoram Land dispute

An unfortunate incident occurred in North-East India yesterday evening when both the police forces of Mizoram and Assam clashed over at Lailapool of Cachar district, which has been known as a flashpoint of inter-state border clashes for decades. This time, it took an extremely barbaric turn when alleged Mizo assailants loaded with Light machine guns ( seen in different videos) fired on the Assam side leaving 5 jawans of Assam police dead on the spot and injuring around 65-75 more people.

IPS Vaibhav, SP, Cachar was shot too after which he was admitted to the ICU of Silchar Medical College. He may be flown to Mumbai for higher treatment. Meanwhile, the PSO of DC, Cachar was shot at to which he succumbed.

Both Assam Govt and Mizoram Govt have narrated their version of the story. But, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma strongly condemned the inhumane, undemocratic move of Mizoram Police and has talked with Mizoram CM over the incident. While CM Sarma thinks that this issue can be solved over discussions after satellite imaging surveys, he has also allowed Assam Police to retaliate and open fire from now on.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Monday, urged Chief Minister of Mizoram Zoramthanga to investigate this matter saying why civilians from his states were holding sticks and trying to incite violence on the Assam-Mizoram border.

He said, “Honble Zoramthanga Ji, could you please investigate why are civilians from Mizoram holding sticks and trying to incite violence? We urge civilians to not take up law and order on their own hands and permit peaceful dialogue to take place between governments.”

The Assam Govt has announced 50 lakh compensation for the family of every Jawan deceased in this unfortunate incident that rocked the Nation and has promised Govt a job for a person in the family of the deceased. He has also declared to raise a Commando- Batallion of 3000 soldiers for the protection of Barak Valley.

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Enhanced rainfall activities over Sikkim during the period 28th June to 2nd July

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"Rainfall in Sikkim"

On Sunday, Meteorological Department (IMD) said the Sikkim will witness heavy rainfall as the southwest monsoon will be covered in the Sikkim region.

Advancing further, the Southwest Monsoon covered the Sikkim region, nearly four days after its normal date.

Special Weather Bulletin Gangtok Said “Monsoon is advancing very well. It has advanced to Sikkim and parts of West Bengal 4 to 5 days in advance. The monsoon flow is strong and southwesterly winds have picked up on a large scale”

And around Sikkim- Rongli, Chungthang: 3 each; Shipgyer, Dentam: 2 each; Gangtok, Mazitar, Khanitar, Namthang, Damthang, Gyalshing: 1 each has Chief rainfall amount(in cm) recorded.

Current Meteorological Condition is saying that The northern Limit of southwest monsoon (NLM) continues to pass through Lat. 26°N / Long. 70°E, Barmer, Bhilwara, Dholpur, Aligarh, Meerut, Ambala and Amritsar. The trough at mean sea level now runs from East Uttar Pradesh to northwest Bay of Bengal across Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal

IMD has classified that the progress is going to slow over the next two days, i.e 28th June.

According to Weather Forecast Due to the expected shifting of the trough of low-pressure area north-wards and strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, rainfall activities over all the districts of Sikkim very likely to be enhanced during the period 28th to 02nd July 2021. During this period, heavy to very heavy rain (07-20 cm) is very likely to occur at isolated places over the state, especially all over East and North Sikkim.

Sikkim has been witnessing heavy rainfall since last week causing heavy damage in Gangtok areas due to landslides. It’s also reported that landslide appeared in Some parts of North Sikkim which also caused east and north connecting bridge.

Also Read – Sikkim recorded 170 new covid cases and 00 New Death

Sikkim to get Sikkim House in Mumbai, relief for medical visitors

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On 31st January 2021, the Honourable CM of Sikkim PS Golay has announced Sikkim will have a Sikkim house in Mumbai soon.

Speaking with The Sikkim Today team in January 2021 in West Sikkim, Chief Minister PS Golay has approached Maharashtra Government for the construction of a Sikkim house in Navi, Mumbai on which the Maharastra govt agrees to accept this.

This house will be 6 km from the nearest airport and 2 km from Tata memorial hospital which be will easy for Sikkimese patients to get connected nearby.

Earlier lots of people from Sikkim who used to go to Mumbai for treatment but can’t find a reasonable place to stay and the Chief minister thought this Sikkim house will be accessible for those who are going to Mumbai for medical treatment.

Yesterday in Sikkim legislative assembly, Honourable Chief minister said ” Maharashtra government has approved our proposal to construct Sikkim House Navi Mumbai near the Tata Memorial Hospital which is one of the top hospitals in the country”

Land measuring 4000 square meter which is almost 1 acre has been allotted for which Rs 11 crore 97 lakhs has already been paid and taken in possession, said HCM in the Assembly.

This will ease the financial burden on our people travelling to Mumbai for treatment and also assist them in other matters,” Chief Minister P.S. Golay in his Budget speech on Monday.

Earlier, the patient from Sikkim used to stay in Hamro Chhahari which was launched years back by the Nepali community from overall which cost only 300/per day Room. But getting a room in Hamro Chhahari is also very difficult for many patients.

Protective Wall Binding Teesta Collapses Posing Threat For Erosions.

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The recent incessant rains in the state have transformed small streams into raging torrents and increased the water volumes of big Rivers like Teesta. The sudden rise in water level is an alarming bell for a few disasters in making. A portion of the protective wall guiding the flow of the Teesta has been washed away. A complete washout is evident if not taken care of and we are only in the first week of June.

The illegal quarrying, sand mining and breaking up of river boulders is the main reason for rivers to change courses and pose a threat. If this issue is not addressed at the earliest, the under-construction via-duct might be damaged.

Also, the settlements near the river belts are always at a threat during every monsoon. Most of the river belts in Sikkim have been plundered by sand mafias and river boulders broken down by stone breakers to feed them into the illegal crusher plants mushrooming in every nook and corner along the riverside. Sikkim is inviting a catastrophe and this will be man-made and not natural.

Sberbank–NSE Initiative Gives Russian Investors Access to Indian Market

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Sberbank, Russia’s largest bank, along with JSC First Asset Management, has launched a new mutual fund called First–India. The fund allows Russian retail investors to invest in India’s stock market by tracking the performance of the Nifty50 Index — NSE’s benchmark index made up of the country’s top 50 companies by market capitalization. The launch was announced at the National Stock Exchange of India during Sberbank CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board Herman Gref’s business visit to India. 

The Nifty50 is one of the world’s most widely followed stock market indices. It includes 50 large, liquid companies across 15 major sectors of the Indian economy. More than 45 funds in India and 22 funds abroad track the Nifty50 Index. Launched in 1996, the index will mark its 30th anniversary on April 22, 2026.

Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, NSE: “We are pleased to support Sberbank in launching Nifty50-linked investment solutions that strengthen capital flows and open India’s equity growth to Russian investors through a trusted benchmark. This initiative reflects strong confidence in India’s markets and deepens the India–Russia financial cooperation. NSE is committed to partnering with Sberbank to enhance market connectivity, uphold regulatory and investor-protection standards, and build liquidity and transparency for these products as we create new opportunities for investors in both countries.”

Herman Gref, CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board, Sberbank: “We are opening another window of investment opportunities for our Russian clients, this time to South Asia. Our new product provides a convenient way to gain exposure to one of the world’s key economic markets—the Indian stock market. Until now, no straightforward options existed for Russian investors seeking personal investments in Indian assets. However, we have created a new and efficient financial bridge between the two countries.”

NSE is India’s largest stock exchange and a key platform for trading, investment products, and market innovation.

Why Putin’s India Visit Matters the Most: The Secret Defence Talks and the Manufacturing Push

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India has just concluded one of its most strategically important diplomatic engagements as Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin for a two-day visit that kept the world watching. While public discussions focused on trade and cooperation, the real attention—especially among defence watchers and netizens—remained on the S-400 systems, Su-57 fighter jets, engine collaborations and the possibility of deeper manufacturing integration between the two countries. The significance of this moment becomes clearer when we look back fifty-four years to a defining chapter in India’s strategic history.

In 1971, during the India-Pakistan war, the United States sent its powerful Task Force 74, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise, into the Bay of Bengal in an attempt to pressure India. The Soviet Union, under the leadership of Leonid Brezhnev, responded instantly, dispatching nuclear-armed submarines and cruisers from Vladivostok. They shadowed the American fleet, making it clear that Moscow would not allow interference. The US task force, despite its might, quietly withdrew. That moment cemented Russia as India’s most dependable strategic ally—one that stood by India when it mattered the most.

Fifty-four years later, in 2025, President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India revived that legacy of trust. Wrapping up his two-day trip on December 5, Putin proposed the localisation of Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet production in India, a move that has the potential to reshape India’s defence manufacturing landscape. Modi and Putin oversaw the signing of sixteen agreements covering defence, nuclear cooperation, energy, trade and technology, with a shared ambition of touching $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. Although the official joint statement avoided any new defence deal announcements, the real depth of the conversations lay behind closed doors, where both nations focused on accelerating defence manufacturing, technology transfer and long-term cooperation.

Putin’s arrival in New Delhi marked his first visit to India since 2021, at a time when Russia is also exploring a peace framework with Ukraine based on a draft proposed by US President Donald Trump. India, meanwhile, continues to depend heavily on Russian-origin platforms, including fighter jets, submarines, tanks and air defence systems. During the meeting, Indian officials reviewed ongoing procurements, including additional S-400 systems—which played a crucial role during Operation Sindoor—and discussed the maintenance and support required for India’s extensive Russian-built inventory.

One of the most important developments during the visit was Russia’s announcement that it is prepared to set up a full production line for the Su-57 in India. The plan involves initial deliveries from Russia while India builds up local assembly capability, with the goal of delivering the first twenty to thirty aircraft within three to four years and completing a full order of seventy to one hundred jets by the early 2030s. Moscow has also offered localisation of UAV manufacturing, including the production of the battle-tested Lancet drones, along with the transfer of engine technologies, sensors and stealth materials. HAL’s Nashik division is being considered as the potential hub for both fighter-jet and UAV manufacturing.

Defence analysts in India have welcomed the proposal, calling it a major breakthrough that aligns with the government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. A retired IAF official described the offer as transformative, noting that it allows India to acquire fifth-generation capability while simultaneously building domestic expertise in avionics and stealth technologies. This cooperation could also provide momentum to the AMCA project, which remains in its early stages.

As Putin and Modi met in New Delhi, the Su-57 offer loomed large in the background, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirming that Russia is ready to meet any requirements India may have. Although no new defence agreement was publicly signed, the visit marks a deeper strategic shift. It signals Russia’s willingness to co-develop next-generation systems with India and India’s determination to emerge as a global defence manufacturing hub. At a time of changing global power dynamics, sanctions, wars and shifting alliances, the India-Russia partnership—born in the Cold War and tested in the flames of 1971—continues to shape the future of Asian and global geopolitics.

NSE Strengthens MSME Ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir Through Strategic MoU

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India’s leading stock exchange, the National Stock Exchange (NSE), and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to spread awareness amongst MSMEs of the Union Territory regarding fund raising via the IPO mechanism using NSE Emerge, which is the SME platform of NSE.

The MoU was exchanged between Shri Arun Manhas, Director, Industries and Commerce – Jammu, Shri Khalid Majeed, Director, Industries and Commerce – Kashmir, and Shri Krishnan Iyer, Senior Vice President, National Stock Exchange, recently in Jammu, in the presence of Shri Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. As part of the understanding, NSE, with the support of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, shall conduct awareness drives through seminars, MSME camps, knowledge sessions, road shows, and workshops to guide corporates across the state on fund raising via the NSE Emerge platform and handhold companies in the listing process.

Shri Vikramjit Singh, Secretary, Industries and Commerce, said, “Under the leadership of Honorable Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Omar Abdullah, we have been striving to provide a conducive ecosystem for the MSMEs of our Union Territory to further grow their businesses and create attractive business models that attract investment opportunities globally. Recently, as a step to propel this growth story, we signed an MoU with the National Stock Exchange to encourage MSMEs from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to tap capital markets via the NSE Emerge platform and raise funds via IPO. NSE Emerge as a platform provides an alternate source of investment-raising opportunities for growing SMEs. NSE Emerge provides MSMEs access to public capital along with an opportunity for enhanced visibility and credibility. As part of the MoU, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and NSE shall jointly conduct awareness sessions and campaigns amongst MSMEs to help them better understand the process of listing on the stock exchange and its related benefits.”

Shri Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE, said: “The Government of Jammu and Kashmir and the National Stock Exchange have entered into an MoU to collaborate and support the growth of MSMEs via the NSE Emerge platform. NSE Emerge enables SMEs to raise capital in an efficient manner and increase their visibility through listing on the stock exchange. We shall organize awareness sessions for MSMEs of Jammu & Kashmir in collaboration with the Government and provide a walk-through of the fund-raising process. We urge the MSMEs in the Union Territory to come forward and avail themselves of this new source of financing through NSE Emerge.”

As on today, 690 companies from various sectors are listed on the NSE Emerge platform and have collectively raised over INR 20,759 crore. The total market capitalisation of these companies is approximately INR 2,00,000 crore.

NSE, India’s largest stock exchange and a global leader in derivatives trading, is a technology-driven marketplace offering integrated services across trading, clearing, settlement, indices, and investor education.

India Set for Strong Economic Momentum as Deloitte Projects Up to 6.9% GDP Growth

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India’s economy is poised for robust expansion this fiscal year, with Deloitte’s October 2025 outlook projecting GDP growth in the range of 6.7% to 6.9%. The report credits a combination of strong domestic fundamentals—rising direct tax exemptions, steady GST reforms, and an accommodative monetary policy—for sustaining confidence and supporting broad-based growth. Deloitte also notes that a possible trade agreement between India and the United States could act as a major external catalyst, potentially accelerating economic activity further.

The fiscal year began on an upbeat note with GDP expanding 7.8% in the April–June quarter, surpassing market expectations. This performance was powered by a 7% rise in private consumption and a 7.8% increase in investment activity, signalling renewed optimism among consumers and businesses. The services sector continued to be the backbone of the economy, recording 9.3% growth, while manufacturing posted healthy gains, reinforcing signs of a comprehensive recovery.

A key highlight of Deloitte’s report is the growing strength of India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Describing them as the “bedrock” of India’s growth story, the report praises their rapid formalisation, expanding digital footprint, and world-class adoption of digital payments—all of which are helping MSMEs climb the value chain and boost export competitiveness.

SLDB’s 38th Board Meeting Highlights Renewed Commitment to Protect Siri Cattle

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Sikkim Livestock Development Board (SLDB) successfully convened its 38th Board Meeting at the Office of the Chief Executive Officer, SLDB Deorali. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Sharman Rai, Secretary AH&VS–cum–Chairman, SLDB, and attended by senior officials and key stakeholders of the department.

The meeting saw the presence of Principal Directors Dr. Sandeep Gurung and Dr. K.T. Bhutia, along with Directors Dr. Sanjay M. Gazmer, Dr. D.P. Pradhan, and Dr. A.L. Rai.
Dr. Pratik Sharma, Chief Executive Officer SLDB Cum Member Secretary, delivered the welcome address and later proposed the vote of thanks.

A major highlight of the meeting was an intensive discussion on the conservation strategy for the indigenous Siri cattle, a breed unique and culturally significant to Sikkim. The Board also reviewed potential support mechanisms for Siri cattle rearers across the state to strengthen the breed’s sustainability and productivity.

The meeting resolved to formulate a comprehensive breeding policy and regulatory framework specifically for the Siri belts of Sikkim, ensuring scientific and long-term conservation of the breed.

Additionally, the Board approved the establishment of a genetic-level laboratory at SLDB, marking a significant advancement toward genomic research and improvement of indigenous cattle.

The 38th Board Meeting marks a promising and progressive way forward for livestock development in Sikkim, especially in the genomic enhancement and conservation of native cattle breeds.

Trekker Dies of Suspected High-Altitude Illness on Goechala Route in West Sikkim

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A 38-year-old trekker, Shri Suman Debnath, Superintendent of CGST & Customs, West Bengal, died during the Goechala trekking expedition in West Sikkim late on 18 November 2025. The group was ascending the high-altitude trail when Debnath reportedly developed a severe headache, nausea, extreme fatigue and breathlessness.

Despite assistance from fellow trekkers, his condition worsened rapidly. He lost consciousness and passed away around 2105 hours at Phedang, a high-altitude point approximately 25 km from Yuksom.

Upon receiving the alert, rescue personnel and porters were immediately mobilised. Due to challenging terrain and altitude, retrieving the body required nearly a full day. The mortal remains were transported to Yuksom and later to Gyalshing District Hospital, where an inquest and autopsy were conducted as per legal procedures.

The body has been handed over to the family for transportation to West Bengal.

Preliminary assessment suggests high-altitude medical complications, though a UD case has been registered. Authorities are conducting a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of death and verify all circumstances surrounding the incident.

Tour De Sikkim Soon: Supercar Rally Set to Bring Lamborghinis and Porsches to the Sikkim

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A high-profile coordination meeting for the upcoming Super Car Rally was held last day at the mini hall of the District Administrative Centre (DAC), Gangtok. The event is being supported by the Black Cat Division under the Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army in collaboration with the Government of Sikkim.

The meeting was co-chaired by District Collector Gangtok, Mr. Tushar G. Nikhare, Additional Political Secretary Gangtok, Mr. Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha, and representatives of the Indian Army. The rally will be led by the Mumbai-based Super Car Route group and will feature some of the world’s most iconic high-performance vehicles, including Lamborghinis, Porsches, and other supercars. Conceptualised as a self-funded, self-driven initiative, the event aims to position Sikkim as one of India’s most breathtaking and premier driving destinations.

The Trishakti Corps is supporting the rally to promote Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan, a Ministry of Defence initiative developed with the Ministry of Tourism. One of the key highlights is Cho La Pass (5,420 metres), a strategic site from the 1967 Indo-China skirmishes, now emerging as a major destination for battlefield tourism enthusiasts.

Scheduled from 11 to 15 December, the rally will flag off from Sukna, West Bengal, and proceed through Siliguri–Gangtok–Cho La–Natu La–Gnathang–Zuluk, showcasing Sikkim’s dramatic border terrain and pristine mountain roads.

Organisers requested administrative and logistical support, which the District Collector assured would be provided. The Additional Political Secretary suggested integrating state government schemes into the rally’s digital outreach.

In his vote of thanks, OSD to HCM Mr. Rewaj Chettri expressed confidence that the rally would significantly boost Sikkim’s visibility and promote its world-class road network.

“It’s India, Not Japan!” Discover Why Anand Mahindra Hails Sikkim as the Country’s Civic Role Model

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Sikkim, one of India’s most scenic northeastern states, is once again making headlines—this time for its remarkable civic discipline and urban cleanliness. The conversation began when travel vlogger shared a viral video showing Sikkim’s spotless streets, calm neighbourhoods, and surprisingly disciplined traffic. The visuals quickly caught the attention of business leader Anand Mahindra, who praised Sikkim as a true example of what urban spaces in India can achieve.

Responding to the video, Mahindra remarked that Sikkim does not need to be compared to Japan or any foreign country. Instead, it deserves to be recognised as India’s own civic role model—a state that proves cleanliness, orderliness, and good public behaviour are entirely achievable within the country.

What sets Sikkim apart is not just its natural beauty, but the way its urban spaces are planned and maintained. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, the state borders Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet and is known for its rolling hills, deep valleys, and towering snow-capped mountains.

Cities like Gangtok and Pelling offer a unique blend of modern urban planning and traditional aesthetics. Clean footpaths, organised traffic, and well-maintained public areas are complemented by colourful murals, local temples, and a strong sense of community responsibility.

This combination creates a visually appealing environment that feels both peaceful and inspiring for travellers. It also positions Sikkim as a benchmark for other Indian states hoping to enhance their civic infrastructure and public discipline.

When it comes to travel, Sikkim is at its best between March–June and September–November, with pleasant weather, clear skies, and vibrant landscapes. Spring showcases lush green hills and blooming flowers, while autumn offers crisp mountain air and majestic views of the Himalayan peaks. Travellers are generally advised to avoid the monsoon months due to heavy rainfall and challenging road conditions.

Investors accounts cross the milestone of 24 crore (240 million) on NSE

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The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) reached another milestone in November 2025, with total unique trading accounts surpassing 24 crore (240 million). This comes just over a year after crossing the 20-crore mark in October last year. Unique registered investors stand at 12.2 crore (as of October 31st, 2025), after crossing 12 crore on September 22nd, 2025.

Investors may hold accounts across brokers, resulting in multiple client codes. Maharashtra leads with over 4 crore investor accounts (17%), followed by Uttar Pradesh (2.7 crore), Gujarat (2.1 crore), West Bengal (1.4 crore) and Rajasthan (1.4 crore). The top five states hold ~49% of all investor accounts, and the top 10 together exceed 73%.

Assam has close to 50 lakh registered users (3% share). The North East stands out for gender-inclusive investing. Mizoram ranks second nationally with ~32% women investors, Goa leads at 33%. Sikkim follows with 31%, and Assam ranks sixth with ~30%, reflecting rising financial awareness among women.

Investor education has become vital amid the rise in post-pandemic participation. As of September 30th, 2025, individual investors hold 18.75% of NSE-listed companies—a 22-year high. Over five years, the Nifty 50 and Nifty 500 have delivered strong annualised returns of 15% and 18%.

Several investor protection measures, increasing digitalisation, innovation, a growing middle class and progressive policy measures under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman have strengthened market confidence. NSE, SEBI, and the Government remain committed to investor awareness and financial inclusion.

NSE has significantly expanded its Investor Education efforts. In the first half of FY26 alone, NSE conducted 11,875 Investor Awareness Programs (IAPs) reaching nearly 6.2 lakh participants, compared to 14,679 in all of FY25. The Investor Protection Fund (IPF) grew 19% YoY to Rs 2,719 crore as of October 31st, 2025.

Shri Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE said:
“Retail investors continue to be optimistic about Indian capital markets, given the robust measures that have been implemented in the past few years including the standardization of mobile-based trading solutions, the implementation of a more streamlined Know Your Customer (KYC) process and strengthened investor awareness initiatives. These measures have helped sustain steady investor participation amid shifting global trade patterns and rapidly evolving geopolitical conditions, while also improving market accessibility, especially for investors residing in tier 2, 3, and 4 cities. Investors now have access to a broad spectrum of instruments—equities, debt securities, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), real estate investment trusts (REITs), infrastructure investment trusts (InvITs), government bonds, and corporate bonds—reflecting the evolution of a technology-driven and inclusive financial ecosystem.”

As one of the world’s largest stock exchanges, the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd continues to play a pivotal role in deepening India’s capital markets and fuelling the country’s economic growth.

Bangladesh Imam’s Kidnapping Exposed as Hoax to Incite Communal Violence

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Authorities in Bangladesh have uncovered that the alleged abduction of Imam Md. Muhibullah Miyaji was a fabricated drama designed to provoke communal hatred against Hindus and ISKCON. Miyaji’s disappearance triggered nationwide Islamist protests, where radical groups blamed “Hindu extremists” and escalated anti-India sentiment.

Police investigations, supported by CCTV footage, ticket records and witness accounts, revealed that the imam voluntarily travelled nearly 400 km to Panchagarh. Footage showed no ambulance, no abductors, and no forced movement. After being confronted with evidence, Miyaji confessed to staging the incident, including chaining himself to a tree to fake torture marks.

According to law-enforcement officials, the motive was to spark sectarian violence at a time when extremist networks are actively pushing disinformation. The episode coincides with intelligence warnings on increased radical activity linked to visits by controversial preachers, including figures associated with Zakir Naik and Hafiz Saeed’s network, raising fresh concerns over rising radicalization and regional instability.

Rights groups say the hoax not only endangered religious minorities but also exposed how quickly false communal narratives can mobilize mobs. Authorities have announced further investigations to identify whether Miyaji acted alone or at the behest of larger extremist groups.