• India has announced a significant cultural and diplomatic gesture by granting land in Varanasi for the construction of a Bhutanese monastery and guesthouse. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Bhutan in November 2025, marking the 70th birth anniversary of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
• This initiative reinforces the deep-rooted Buddhist heritage, cultural ties, and India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy.

• Japan’s first woman Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, has found herself at the centre of a cultural debate as the Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament approaches its final day. Traditionally, the Prime Minister presents the champion with the PM’s Trophy inside the dohyo, but women are barred from entering the ring under long-standing Shinto customs. Her decision, whether to follow the custom or step inside the ring, has become a symbol of Japan’s ongoing conversation about tradition and gender equality.

Context:

• The Infosys Science Foundation (ISF) announced the winners of the Infosys Prize 2025, recognising six exceptional young researchers for their contributions to science, technology, and humanities. Each laureate receives a gold medal, a citation, and USD 1,00,000. The annual award aims to encourage research excellence and innovation among emerging scientists and scholars, strengthening India’s global reputation in scientific research.

• Maharashtra has been declared the best-performing state in water conservation and management at the 6th National Water Awards 2024, organised by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. The announcement recognises Maharashtra’s exemplary work in promoting sustainable water resource management, efficient irrigation, and community-driven watershed projects. The awards ceremony will be held in New Delhi on 18 November 2025, where President Droupadi Murmu will present the honours to the winners.

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attended the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Niagara, Canada (November 11–12, 2025), engaging in a series of bilateral discussions with his counterparts from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Brazil. His participation reflects India’s growing diplomatic influence and its role as a voice for the Global South in shaping global policy debates on security, sustainability, and technology governance.