Supreme Court Revisits Aravalli Hills Protection Framework

In a significant development in environmental jurisprudence, the Supreme Court of India has stayed its earlier ruling concerning the Aravalli Hills and ordered the constitution of a new independent expert committee. The decision reflects judicial concern over ambiguity in defining the Aravalli range and the potential ecological fallout arising from mining activities in the region.

India Tests Indigenous Long-Range Guided Rocket

India’s indigenous artillery capability received a major boost with the successful maiden flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR-120). Conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, the trial demonstrated extended range, precision guidance, and operational reliability, marking a critical milestone in the Indian Army’s rocket artillery modernisation programme.

Israel Announces Rare Civilian Honour for US President

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that former US President Donald Trump will be awarded Israel’s highest civilian honour, the Israel Prize for Peace, following high-level talks held in Florida. The announcement was made during a joint press interaction after the two leaders met at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence, marking a rare diplomatic gesture with deep symbolic and political significance.

India’s New Global Economic Standing

India has officially emerged as the world’s fourth-largest economy, overtaking Japan with a nominal GDP of $4.18 trillion. According to official projections, India is now poised to surpass Germany within the next three years, potentially reaching a GDP of $7.3 trillion by 2030. This achievement highlights India’s sustained economic momentum at a time when many global economies are grappling with trade disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and policy uncertainty.

India’s Standing in Global Rare Earth Reserves

India holds the third-largest reserves of rare earth elements (REEs) in the world, yet its role in global production remains disproportionately small. According to a recent report by Amicus Growth, India has approximately 6.9 million tonnes of rare earth oxide reserves, trailing only China (44 million tonnes) and Brazil (around 21 million tonnes). With nearly 6–7 per cent of global reserves, India appears well-positioned on paper to emerge as a strategic supplier.