India Seeks FATF Grey Listing for Pakistan After Pahalgam Terror Attack
In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists, India is ramping up efforts to have Pakistan placed on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List. India highlights Pakistan’s alleged failure to stop funding and supporting terrorist groups responsible for the attack. By pushing for this designation, India aims to tighten financial scrutiny on Pakistan, disrupting terror financing networks. This move is part of India’s broader strategy to pressure Pakistan into taking stronger action against terrorism, while promoting regional security and curbing cross-border militant activities.
Jharkhand Completes OBC Data Collection to Implement Urban Local Quota
Jharkhand has successfully finished gathering data on Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to determine reservation quotas in urban local bodies. This survey is a key step to accurately assess the OBC population within cities and towns, ensuring fair political representation and access to resources. By establishing these quotas, the state aims to promote social equity and empower OBC communities in municipal governance. The initiative reflects Jharkhand’s commitment to inclusive development and aligns with nationwide efforts to update OBC statistics for better implementation of affirmative action policies at the local level.
Delhi Approves Bill to Regulate Private School Fees
The Delhi Cabinet has passed the School Education (Transparency in Fixation and Regulation of Fees) Bill, 2025, to bring accountability in fee structures of private unaided and government-aided schools. The bill proposes a three-level oversight system involving school, district, and state committees, ensuring parental involvement in fee decisions. It aims to curb arbitrary fee hikes and coercive practices. Violations could attract fines up to ₹10 lakh and even derecognition of schools. By enforcing structured regulation, the bill ensures greater transparency, protects parents’ rights, and promotes a more equitable and accountable education system across the capital.
Delays in PMLA Trials Remain a Concern Despite Special Courts
Despite setting up 100 special courts to fast-track cases under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), India continues to face significant delays in trial completion. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) points to a shortage of judges, procedural bottlenecks, and overlapping jurisdiction with other agencies as key challenges. Many cases remain stuck for years, weakening enforcement and reducing the law’s intended impact. Courts are also overburdened with both trial and bail hearings, further slowing progress. These issues highlight the need for judicial reforms and better coordination to strengthen the country’s fight against money laundering.
Neuralink Advances Speech Tech with FDA Breakthrough Tag
Neuralink, led by Elon Musk, has received the FDA’s Breakthrough Device Designation for its brain-computer interface aimed at restoring speech in people with severe impairments. The technology translates neural activity into digital signals, allowing users to communicate directly through thought. It is designed for individuals affected by conditions like ALS, strokes, or spinal cord injuries. The FDA’s recognition accelerates development and clinical approval, potentially bringing life-changing communication tools to patients faster. Neuralink has opened a patient registry to recruit volunteers for future trials, marking a major step toward restoring speech through advanced neurotechnology.