Overview

On 2 June 2026, the 193 UN member states will elect the President of the 81st General Assembly session. The candidates are Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and Cyprus's Ambassador Andreas Kakouris. The Asia-Pacific Group is entitled to this presidency under the established regional rotation system. The winner's term will begin in September, and they will be a key figure in tackling global challenges.

Overview

India's Department of School Education flagged off 56 students to Japan under the Sakura Science Programme 2026. This Japan-Asia youth exchange initiative offers one-week exposure to Japan's advanced science, technology, and culture. India joined this programme in 2016, and since then, 674 students have participated.

Overview

India signed a $629 million deal with Vietnam on 30 May 2026 to supply BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles. Talks with Indonesia for the naval version are in final stages. The Philippines was the first foreign buyer in 2022. BrahMos is a joint India-Russia missile named after Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers.

Overview

India is close to signing a $8 billion deal with Germany for six advanced submarines. The deal includes full technology transfer and local construction. These HDW Class 214 submarines will have Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, allowing them to stay underwater for weeks without surfacing.

Overview

Nickel is a silvery-white metal essential for stainless steel and electric vehicle batteries. India faces rising nickel prices due to the West Asia war. Odisha’s Sukinda region holds large laterite nickel reserves. Indonesia, Australia, and Brazil are top producers. Nickel is resistant to corrosion and highly ductile.