Diplomatic Engagements at SCO Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, where he engaged in crucial bilateral discussions. A key highlight was his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility along the border areas for the continued development of bilateral relations. They also reiterated their commitment to finding a "fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable" resolution to the long-standing boundary issue. PM Modi and President Xi agreed that India and China are development partners rather than rivals, stressing that differences should not escalate into disputes. Discussions also touched upon strengthening people-to-people ties, with the resumption of direct flights between the two countries being on the agenda.
Furthermore, PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with Myanmar's acting President and military chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. The Prime Minister also conveyed to President Xi that both India and China are victims of terrorism, with China extending support to India on the issue of cross-border terrorism.
Monsoon Update and Weather Outlook
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that August 2025 recorded one of India's highest rainfall levels in decades, with exceptional showers across several states. The average rainfall for August was 268.1 mm, making it the 7th highest since 2001. The IMD forecasts that September is also likely to be wetter than normal, particularly over many parts of east-central, east, northeast, and some parts of northwest India and western coastal regions. The department has warned of potential flash floods, landslides, and cloudburst-like events, especially in the Himalayan states, with spillover risks in Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Key National Developments
In political news, an FIR has been registered against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra for alleged "objectionable" remarks made against Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The Congress party claimed to have submitted 89 lakh complaints to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the Bihar voter list, all of which were reportedly rejected. Meanwhile, the Election Commission is also targeting new voter cards for all Bihar voters post the Special electoral Roll Revision (SIR).
Economically, senior RSS functionary Ramlal stated that India can transform the challenges posed by the imposition of 50 percent tariffs by the US into an opportunity to boost its economy and become a global leader, advocating for self-reliance. In terms of connectivity, Chandigarh's Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport is set to receive two new daily direct flights to Bengaluru starting September 1, aiming to enhance air travel between the northern and southern metros.
Sports News
Veteran Indian Test cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from international cricket. India also secured a significant victory against Japan in the Super 4s of the Asia Cup Hockey 2025 tournament, boosting their chances of reaching the final. Additionally, star Indian shuttlers Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty assured India of a medal at the World Championships in men's doubles.