Economic & Diplomatic Front:
India and Mauritius have agreed to commence trade using their respective national currencies, the Indian Rupee and the Mauritian Rupee. This move aims to bolster bilateral trade relations and reduce reliance on third-party currencies. In a related development, India’s Ambassador to the US engaged with American lawmakers to discuss strengthening bilateral trade and energy cooperation. These discussions also covered shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific region and reiterated India's support for resolving the Ukraine conflict through dialogue. This comes amidst some strain in India-US relations following US tariffs and India's continued purchases of Russian oil.
National Infrastructure & Development:
A new Rajdhani Express service linking Mizoram's Sairang with Delhi was inaugurated on September 13. This marks a significant boost in connectivity for the northeastern state. Furthermore, Ludhiana is set to benefit from major road infrastructure upgrades, with three National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects slated to begin work by October 2025. These projects include the Southern Ludhiana Bypass and connectivity to Bathinda and Rupnagar.
Internal Affairs & Governance:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Manipur, marking his first trip to the strife-torn state since the conflict began in May 2023. During his visit, the Prime Minister called for harmony and peace among the communities. In a cultural initiative, PM Modi also launched the Gyan Bharatam Mission, a portal aimed at digitizing and preserving India's rich manuscript heritage. On the legal front, a National Lok Adalat held on September 13 offered citizens an opportunity to settle minor traffic challans with reduced or no penalties.
Regional Relations & Security:
The situation on the India-Nepal border is reportedly returning to normal following the formation of a new government in Nepal, with Sushila Karki sworn in as interim Prime Minister. Passenger and cargo movement has resumed at major crossings, and PM Modi congratulated the new interim PM, signaling India's continued support. India is also set to host the fifth Coast Guard Global Summit in Chennai in 2027, a decision unanimously taken at the fourth summit, aiming to bolster multilateral maritime cooperation.
Sports Highlights:
In a highly anticipated cricket event, India faced off against Pakistan in the Asia Cup on September 14. Additionally, the Indian women's cricket team commenced a crucial three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Australia at New Chandigarh. This series is vital for India's preparations ahead of the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025, which is scheduled to begin later this month in India and Sri Lanka. In tennis, India achieved a historic win over Switzerland in the Davis Cup, marking the first time a European team has been beaten in an away tie since 1993.