
Global Peace Index 2025: Key Insights
The Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025 offers a snapshot of global peace and conflict, ranking countries based on safety, military presence, and international relations. While some nations improved their rankings due to internal reforms or diplomacy, others dropped amid political unrest and wars. Europe remains the most peaceful region, while the Middle East faces continued instability. The index also reflects rising tensions from climate change, economic inequality, and geopolitical rivalries. GPI serves as a valuable tool for policymakers and peace organizations to monitor and respond to global security challenges.

BirdLife International: Where is its Secretariat?
BirdLife International, a global partnership dedicated to bird conservation and biodiversity, has its secretariat in Cambridge, United Kingdom. This location coordinates efforts across more than 120 partner organizations worldwide. BirdLife works to protect endangered bird species and preserve critical habitats by influencing environmental policies and supporting on-ground conservation. The secretariat plays a central role in research, advocacy, and fundraising. Their work also contributes to broader environmental goals, including climate action and sustainable land use, making the organization a vital force in global wildlife conservation.

CSIR & NECTAR Drive Vegan Leather in Northeast India
A forward-thinking partnership between CSIR and NECTAR aims to turn Northeast India into a hub for vegan leather manufacturing. This eco-friendly alternative, often made from plant-based or recycled materials, reduces environmental impact compared to animal leather. The project promotes local entrepreneurship, uses regional biomass, and supports sustainable livelihoods. It aligns with circular economy goals by minimizing waste and encouraging green innovation. With this initiative, India moves a step closer to eco-conscious industrialization while empowering its northeastern states as leaders in sustainable material development.

DRDO Lists 28 Indigenous Weapons for Fast Procurement
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has offered 28 indigenously developed weapons for emergency acquisition by the armed forces. This step aligns with the nation’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision and aims to reduce dependence on foreign defence equipment. The list includes advanced drones, missile systems, surveillance tools, and combat gear. The fast-tracked procurement process ensures quicker deployment in strategic areas. This move reflects growing domestic defence capabilities and promotes local manufacturing, research, and innovation in the military sector, enhancing India’s preparedness and technological edge.

India Enters Top 100 in Global SDG Rankings
For the first time, India has entered the top 100 in the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) rankings, signaling progress in health, education, clean energy, and poverty reduction. The United Nations tracks this index to assess how countries are meeting global development benchmarks. India’s leap is attributed to policies like Swachh Bharat, digital infrastructure, rural electrification, and climate action. Improved data collection and grassroots implementation have played a key role. The achievement marks a significant milestone in India’s long-term development strategy and showcases its commitment to the 2030 UN Agenda.

Veteran Cricketer Dilip Doshi Passes Away at 77
Dilip Doshi, a respected figure in Indian cricket and one of the country’s finest left-arm spinners, passed away at the age of 77 in London. Known for his classical spin and discipline, Doshi played 33 Tests and 15 ODIs for India, taking over 100 wickets. He made his debut late, at 30, yet left a significant mark during a competitive era for Indian spin bowling. Post-retirement, he contributed to cricket through commentary and business ventures. His passing is a loss to the cricket community, which remembers him for his skill, wisdom, and sportsmanship.