Indo-Pacific Security: US Pacific Command chief Admiral Samuel Paparo is in India for talks aimed at deepening the India-US Major Defence Partnership, with focus on digital transformation, emerging tech, maritime security and defence energy resilience. Climate Diplomacy (Pacific): World powers are gathering in Fiji for UN-backed pre-COP31 climate talks, with Pacific leaders pushing for 1.5°C, faster climate finance and stronger ocean-focused action. Regional Cooperation (Bay of Bengal): Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman called for deeper trade, energy, technology, climate and maritime collaboration to turn the Bay of Bengal into a “shared prosperity” zone. Water Security (South Asia): India’s decision to put the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance is raising alarms over water, agriculture and livelihoods, discussed at a UN Human Rights Council side event. Public Health (UK): UKHSA warns hotter summers are helping disease-carrying Hyalomma ticks survive longer, raising concern about Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever risk. Energy/Infrastructure (Canada-Pacific): Canada’s “Pacific Link” West Coast oil pipeline has been fast-tracked as a project of national interest, intensifying debate over impacts and consultation. Visa Policy (US): The US expands visa bonds to 50 countries, but India is excluded—Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal are among those covered. Sports & Society: Asian Games 2026 faces scrutiny over scheduling and officiating, while India’s women’s cricket continues to win amid ongoing pay-parity and venue-access concerns.