Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The US President has signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, 2026, which could impose up to 100% tariffs on Indian imports if India continues to import oil from Russia.
Key points
- The Act aims to cut off financing for Russia's war in Ukraine by sanctioning its leadership and major energy customers.
- It also includes measures against Iran, extending sanctions for another five years until 2031.
- India faces potential 100% tariffs on its goods if it remains among the top five crude oil or natural gas importers from Russia.
- This poses significant implications for India's export ambitions and energy security.
Background & context
The US has previously used sanctions as a foreign policy tool. This Act represents a significant escalation in economic pressure, particularly on countries maintaining energy ties with Russia and Iran.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Act allows the US to impose a 100% tariff on goods originating from countries importing Russian oil, under specific criteria.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (International Relations), GS Paper III (Economy - Impact on trade and energy security)
Why in news?
The Union Home Ministry designated the 'Shahzad Bhatti Network' (SBN) as a terrorist group under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) due to its threat to internal security.
Key points
- Shahzad Bhatti, a social media influencer from Pakistan, is linked to terror investigations in India.
- The SBN has spread its influence across 14 states, recruiting youth for various unlawful activities.
- Activities included pasting terror-glorifying posters, installing surveillance CCTVs linked to Pakistan, and making extortion calls.
- The Ministry stated that SBN poses a serious threat to India's democratic system, communal harmony, and internal security.
- Over 200 suspects linked to SBN have been detained or arrested nationwide.
Background & context
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is a stringent anti-terror law in India that allows the government to designate individuals and organizations as terrorist groups.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) was designated as a terrorist group under UAPA.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III (Internal Security, Role of external agencies in destabilizing India)
Why in news?
A Pakistan Navy vessel (PNS Hunain) collided with an Indian Navy warship (INS Kolkata) in the North Arabian Sea, leading to diplomatic protests from India.
Key points
- The collision occurred on September 15, with India alleging a dangerous overtaking maneuver by the Pakistani ship.
- India summoned Pakistan's Charge d’Affaires, citing violations of the 1991 India-Pakistan agreement on naval vessel separation.
- Pakistan rejected India's allegations.
- INS Kolkata sustained no major damage, while PNS Hunain was damaged and returned to harbor.
- INS Kolkata is a guided missile destroyer, while PNS Hunain is an offshore patrol vessel.
Background & context
The India-Pakistan maritime boundary in the Arabian Sea is a sensitive area. Both navies conduct regular patrols, and adherence to maritime protocols is crucial for maintaining peace and preventing incidents.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The collision involved INS Kolkata (Indian guided missile destroyer) and PNS Hunain (Pakistan offshore patrol vessel).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (International Relations - India-Pakistan relations), GS Paper III (Internal Security - Maritime security)