Wealthy Indians who hold international credit cards from global banks like HSBC, Standard Chartered, and Citibank may soon face restrictions or lose access to these prized offshore cards. Global banks are tightening compliance rules under pressure from regulators to curb money laundering and tax evasion risks. These cards, often issued through overseas accounts, allowed high-net-worth individuals to make foreign transactions seamlessly. The RBI and international regulators are increasing scrutiny on cross-border financial activities, pushing banks to reassess client eligibility and enforce stricter KYC norms.

**महाराष्ट्र में धर्मांतरण विरोधी कानून**

महाराष्ट्र सरकार ने 28 अगस्त 2024 से धर्मांतरण विरोधी कानून लागू करने की घोषणा की है। इसके साथ महाराष्ट्र ऐसा करने वाला देश का 13वां राज्य बन जाएगा। इस कानून के तहत जबरन, लालच, धोखाधड़ी या प्रलोभन देकर धर्मांतरण कराना अपराध होगा। दोषी पाए जाने पर कड़ी सजा और जुर्माने का प्रावधान है। उत्तर प्रदेश, मध्य प्रदेश, गुजरात, हिमाचल प्रदेश सहित 12 राज्यों में पहले से ऐसे कानून लागू हैं। यह कदम धार्मिक स्वतंत्रता की रक्षा और जबरन धर्मांतरण रोकने के उद्देश्य से उठाया गया है।

ISRO is preparing to resume GSLV Mk-II missions, targeting a September launch window for its comeback flight. The GSLV Mk-II, India's medium-lift launch vehicle powered by a cryogenic upper stage, has been grounded following previous mission concerns. This upcoming launch is crucial for ISRO to restore confidence in the rocket's reliability and maintain its satellite deployment schedule. The mission is expected to carry a communication or navigation satellite. A successful flight would strengthen ISRO's launch capabilities alongside the proven PSLV and newer LVM3 rockets, supporting India's growing space ambitions.

A landmark antitrust trial against Meta began in federal court, with the FTC arguing the company illegally monopolized social media by acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp to eliminate competition. The government seeks to force Meta to divest these platforms. Meta counters that the acquisitions were approved by regulators and benefited consumers. Judge James Boasberg presides over the case, which could take weeks. A ruling against Meta could fundamentally reshape the social media landscape and set major tech antitrust precedent.

India has signaled a reciprocity-based approach in its ties with Bangladesh after Dhaka formally sought the extradition of ousted former PM Sheikh Hasina, who has been sheltering in India since August 2024 following her ouster. India's External Affairs Ministry emphasized that bilateral relations should be governed by mutual respect and reciprocity. Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has demanded Hasina's return to face charges including corruption and human rights abuses. India has not yet responded to the formal extradition request but has hinted it will weigh its own interests. Tensions have escalated over attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, border issues, and diplomatic friction. India's stance underscores its reluctance to hand over Hasina, a long-time ally, while urging Bangladesh to protect minority rights and maintain stable ties.

India is closely monitoring the emerging strategic pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye, stating it is "examining implications" for national security. The trilateral alliance reportedly aims to strengthen military, economic, and geopolitical cooperation among the three Muslim-majority nations. India views this development cautiously, concerned about potential shifts in regional power dynamics, especially regarding Pakistan's role. New Delhi fears the pact could embolden Pakistan on Kashmir and alter Gulf diplomacy. India continues engaging Saudi Arabia bilaterally to safeguard its interests.

**Security Breach at Taj Mahal Sparks Controversy**

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) filed a police complaint after a group of visitors performed Shiv Puja and sprinkled Gangajal inside the Taj Mahal premises, violating monument rules. The incident raised serious security concerns at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Videos of the ritual went viral on social media, triggering debate. ASI condemned the act, calling it a breach of protected monument regulations. Authorities are investigating and tightening security to prevent future incidents.

India's Parliament passed the Finance Bill 2025, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman firmly ruling out any transaction charges on UPI payments. Amid widespread rumors and public concern that the government might impose fees on UPI transactions, Sitharaman reassured citizens that UPI will remain completely free for users. She emphasized that the government has no intention of levying any charges, as UPI is a key driver of India's digital economy. The bill also included various tax reforms and amendments.

Russia secretly shipped explosives and drone components to Iran through covert supply routes, helping Tehran rebuild its depleted military arsenal. The transfers reportedly included materials for manufacturing attack drones, which Iran had heavily supplied to Russia for use in Ukraine. This reciprocal arrangement deepens the controversial military partnership between Moscow and Tehran, alarming Western nations and Ukraine. The secret corridor bypasses international sanctions aimed at curbing both nations' military capabilities, raising escalation concerns globally.

Recent FDA raids across Maharashtra and Bengaluru have intensified, targeting restaurants for hygiene violations, adulterated ingredients, expired products, and unsafe food handling practices. Inspections revealed shocking conditions including pest infestations, contaminated cooking oil, and synthetic food colors. Several eateries faced closures and hefty fines. Restaurant associations pushed back, calling the crackdowns excessive and demanding clearer guidelines. The drives follow growing public health concerns and viral social media exposés. Authorities vow continued vigilance to ensure food safety compliance.

At least 24 schoolchildren were hospitalised in Bihar's Nalanda district after detergent powder was allegedly mixed into their mid-day meal instead of salt. The incident occurred at a government school, where students complained of nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain shortly after eating. They were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities launched an investigation, and the cook was questioned. Parents demanded strict action against those responsible. The incident highlights recurring concerns over negligence and poor quality control in India's mid-day meal scheme, which serves millions of children daily across government schools.

Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has sought the extradition of former PM Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India in August 2024 after being ousted. Under the 2013 India-Bangladesh Extradition Treaty, extradition is possible for offenses punishable by at least one year in both countries. However, India can refuse on grounds of "political offense," sovereignty concerns, or if the request is politically motivated. The treaty also bars extradition for military/political crimes. India has historically granted Hasina refuge, complicating diplomatic ties. Experts note India is unlikely to comply, citing political asylum norms and bilateral relations. The situation tests India's balancing act between legal obligations and strategic interests in the region.

Iran has warned it will escalate its nuclear activities if the U.S. fails to honour commitments under the nuclear deal within weeks. Tensions have risen since the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 JCPOA under Trump, reimposing sanctions. Iran insists it has been patient but will reduce compliance, including enriching uranium beyond agreed limits, if no relief is provided. European signatories have urged diplomacy, but Iran demands concrete action, not promises. The situation risks destabilizing the Middle East further.

U.S. President Donald Trump praised a landmark defence agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan, calling it a "big, bold step." The trilateral pact focuses on strengthening military cooperation, defence production, and strategic security ties among the three Muslim-majority nations. The agreement aims to enhance joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and defence technology collaboration. Trump welcomed the deal as a positive move for regional stability and counterterrorism efforts. Analysts view it as a significant geopolitical shift, potentially reshaping alliances in the Middle East and South Asia, while also aligning with broader U.S. interests in the region.

**पीएम केयर्स फंड अपडेट:**

पीएम केयर्स फंड में घरेलू दान में 30% की भारी गिरावट दर्ज हुई है। यह घटकर मात्र ₹479 करोड़ रह गया, जो पिछले वर्ष की तुलना में काफी कम है। इसके साथ ही विदेशी दान में भी कमी देखी गई है। कोविड काल में इस फंड को भारी दान मिला था, लेकिन अब महामारी खत्म होने के बाद लोगों की रुचि घटी है। वर्तमान में फंड में कुल ₹8,452 करोड़ की राशि उपलब्ध है। यह फंड 2020 में प्रधानमंत्री मोदी द्वारा आपदा प्रबंधन के लिए स्थापित किया गया था। पारदर्शिता को लेकर विपक्ष लगातार सवाल उठाता रहा है।