• 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.

Overview

• Kerala has once again secured the Top Achiever position in the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Rankings 2024, demonstrating its strong governance reforms, transparent procedures, and investor-friendly policies. The rankings were released under the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

Overview

Israel has reopened the Zikim crossing to facilitate the entry of UN and international humanitarian aid into northern Gaza. This marks an important policy shift after months of restricted access, aimed at addressing severe shortages in the conflict-affected region.