• A new species of trapdoor spider, named Aptostichus ramirezae, has been discovered by researchers from the University of California, Davis, in 2025. The species was found inhabiting California’s coastal dunes and was previously mistaken for its close relative, Aptostichus simus. The discovery provides new insights into spider biodiversity and highlights the growing need to protect fragile coastal ecosystems threatened by human activity and climate change.

• In a major development for India’s global fintech expansion, NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) has partnered with Razorpay Curlec to enable Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in Malaysia. Announced during the Global Fintech Fest 2025, this collaboration allows Indian travellers to make instant and secure digital payments to Malaysian merchants using their regular UPI-enabled apps such as PhonePe, Paytm, and Google Pay.

• Saudi Arabia has launched the second edition of its Global Harmony Initiative on 2 November 2025, beginning with “India Week” as part of the ongoing Riyadh Season. The programme, led by the Ministry of Media in cooperation with the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to cultural inclusivity and cross-cultural understanding under Saudi Vision 2030.

In a significant diplomatic move, the Taliban government of Afghanistan is preparing to appoint its first official representative in India since taking power in August 2021. The decision signals a gradual thaw in India-Afghanistan relations and a cautious step toward renewed engagement, following the visit of Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to New Delhi in October 2025.

• Observed every year on November 3, World Sandwich Day celebrates one of the most loved and adaptable foods in human history. From humble beginnings as a convenience meal for an English nobleman to becoming a global culinary icon, the sandwich reflects how different cultures combine practicality and creativity in their cuisine.