India-Uzbekistan Partnership Upgrade: PM Modi’s Uzbekistan visit elevates ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with plans for a foreign-minister coordination council and deeper cooperation across energy, critical minerals, defense, digital public infrastructure, healthcare, education and connectivity. Nepal Flood Response: Nepal’s flash floods and mudslide aftermath continues to strain rescue and aid, with India reporting rising deaths and missing people and sending tunnel search-and-rescue teams as China warns of further glacier-related risks along the border. Pacific Islands Forum Tensions: China warns of “consequences” after Taiwan’s foreign minister attended Palau’s PIF opening ceremony, escalating a diplomatic fight that risks overshadowing regional unity. India Economy Beat: India’s Q1 GDP grew 7.8%, driven by services and stronger manufacturing, easing fears that the Iran war would derail growth. Japan Defense Tech Push: Japan seeks a record ¥8.9 trillion defense budget, emphasizing AI orchestration, drones and a sovereign cloud for cyber resilience. Indus Waters Treaty Row: India rejects a Hague arbitration order on Indus Waters, saying the tribunal has no jurisdiction and keeping the treaty in abeyance. Cyber Security: India’s NIA widens “Operation Sindoor” investigations into alleged DDoS attacks targeting 54 government websites. Nuclear Policy Gap: India’s SHANTI Act draft rules open reactor and early fuel-cycle roles for private firms but leave enrichment pathways and HALEU framework unclear. Trade & Industry: Apple plans to raise India’s iPhone production share to 30–35% in five years; Coal India targets IPOs for SECL and MCL by year-end; ONGC plans deepwater exploration investment and expands strategic petroleum reserves.