Myanmar to reopen schools from next month

He highlighted India's role as a "first responder" for the Maldives, emphasising that India's support during critical periods has been fundamental to the stability and security of the island nation.

Sibal argued that the US is unlikely to risk a naval operation to forcibly "reopen" the Strait of Hormuz as the deep-water channel necessary for large vessels lies within Iranian territorial waters. Iran does not need sophisticated long-range missiles to defend this corridor; short-range missiles, torpedoes, and mines can easily sink high-value naval assets.

The European Union on Wednesday moved to intensify pressure on Tehran amid the conflict in West Asia by approving new sanctions targeting 19 Iranian regime officials and entities accused of serious human rights violations.

Iran's UN Ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, has condemned the US-Israeli "war of aggression" for creating a grave situation for civilians. Reportedly, strikes have hit urban centres, schools, and hospitals, killing 1,332 people. Tehran has urged the Security Council to take urgent measures to halt the ongoing military campaign.

Oxford University students Zoe Barclay and Petrina Lander praised India's innovative schooling at the UNHRC in Geneva. Highlighting the Akshar Foundation's model in Assam, they lauded the integration of vocational skills and peer mentorship, suggesting Western systems could learn from this holistic, inclusive approach to education.

Balen Shah's RSP is heading for a landslide victory in Nepal's parliamentary polls, leading in 98 seats and winning 19. Shah holds a massive lead over veteran KP Sharma Oli, as the RSP nears a simple majority, with party leaders eyeing a two-third majority of 186 seats.

EAM S Jaishankar stated that the era of "big deals" between dominant powers is over, as multipolarity is now an irreversible reality. He argued that the Global South is defined by shared historical experiences, while noting a growing "differentiation" within the previously unified Global West.

PM Modi and Finnish President Alexander Stubb have signed a migration and mobility pact to link innovation ecosystems. The agreement strengthens ties across education, startups, and research, with Modi hailing Finland as a "role model" and pledging to deepen cooperation at every level, from schools to Arctic research.

The University of Chicago has honoured Professor Krishnamurthy V. Subramanian with the Alumni Award for Professional Achievement. He is the first Indian economist to receive the 85-year-old distinction, recognised for his "landmark" policy work and leadership in India during the COVID-19 crisis and global economic uncertainty.

Nepal's interim PM Sushila Karki voted in Kathmandu as the 2026 general election began amid tight security. Nearly 19 million voters, over half young, choose a new government after the Gen Z-led snap polls.