India Lifts Asia Cup Trophy Amidst Presentation Controversy
In a thrilling final on September 28, 2025, India defeated Pakistan by five wickets to clinch their ninth Asia Cup title at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. However, the victory celebration was overshadowed by a controversy surrounding the trophy presentation. The Indian team reportedly refused to accept the winners' trophy from ACC chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan's Interior Minister and chairman of the country's cricket board. This led to an inordinate delay in the presentation ceremony, with Indian players maintaining their distance from Mr. Naqvi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team, hailing it as "Operation Sindoor on the games field."
Landmark Defence Deal for Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jets Finalized
In a major boost to India's indigenous defence manufacturing and the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, the Ministry of Defence finalized a landmark ₹62,370 crore deal for 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This significant acquisition reinforces India's commitment to self-reliance in defence technology and modernizing its air force capabilities.
Supreme Court Upholds JSW Steel's Acquisition, Strengthens IBC
The Supreme Court of India approved JSW Steel's $2.3 billion (₹19,350 crore) acquisition of Bhushan Power and Steel (BPSL), reversing an earlier decision of liquidation. This judgment is seen as a significant move that strengthens the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, by prioritizing the revival of distressed firms over their liquidation, thereby boosting investor confidence in the insolvency resolution process.
PM Modi Flags Off New Amrit Bharat Express
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Udhna (Surat)–Brahmapur Amrit Bharat Express, marking India's 13th non-AC superfast train. This new service aims to enhance connectivity between Gujarat and Odisha, further strengthening the country's rail network and facilitating passenger movement.
India Criticizes Pakistan at UNGA Over Terrorism Glorification
India delivered a strong statement at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), condemning Pakistan for glorifying terrorism. India asserted that a neighbor who was not explicitly named chose to respond and admit their long-standing practice of cross-border terrorism. This robust stance came after Pakistan responded to remarks made by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on terrorism.
Karnataka Launches Second Caste Survey
The state of Karnataka has launched its second socio-economic survey, conducted by the State Commission for Backward Classes. This survey, covering approximately 1,400 castes, including sub-castes, has sparked political controversy, particularly among dominant landowning communities who fear a dilution of their population share and its implications for reservation policies.
World Food India 2025 Concludes with Significant Investment Commitments
The World Food India 2025 event concluded with investment commitments totaling ₹1 lakh crore. Notably, Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL) signed a ₹40,000-crore MoU with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries to establish integrated food manufacturing facilities across India. This includes setting up state-of-the-art production units in Katol, Nagpur (Maharashtra), and Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh), incorporating advanced technologies.
Tragic Incidents: Karur Stampede and Ladakh Protests
In a tragic incident, at least 39 people died in a stampede at a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on September 27, 2025. The event drew several thousand people, leading to overcrowding. Separately, in Ladakh, the bodies of two civilians killed during street protests on September 24 were cremated in Leh on September 28, 2025, amidst tight security and curfew.