Police Commemoration Day Observed Nationwide
On October 21, 2025, India observed Police Commemoration Day to honor the sacrifices of police personnel. The Vice President, Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Defence Minister paid tributes to the martyrs. A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi, attended by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, and heads of Central Armed Police Forces and Central Police Organisations. A joint parade of Central Armed Police Forces and Delhi Police marked the occasion.
Vice President’s Tribute
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan lauded the police for their unwavering commitment to national security and public well-being. In a social media post, he highlighted their bravery, compassion, and dedication, especially during crises.
Prime Minister and Home Minister’s Remarks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi saluted the courage of police personnel, emphasizing their role in keeping the nation safe. Home Minister Amit Shah praised the police as first responders, noting their exemplary courage in thwarting crimes and protecting citizens’ rights.
Defence Minister on National Security
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that a strong police force is essential for a strong nation. Speaking at the National Police Memorial, he emphasized that while the military protects geographical integrity, the police safeguard social integrity. He noted the dual role of police in maintaining law and order and managing public perception, especially as India aims for a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
Defence Sector Achievements Highlighted
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while celebrating Diwali with Indian Navy personnel aboard INS Vikrant off the Goa and Karwar coast, announced India’s ambition to become a top global defence exporter. He highlighted a 30-fold increase in defence exports over the past decade, crediting indigenous defence units and startups. Modi also noted the success of missiles like BrahMos and Akash, which have attracted international interest. INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, was celebrated as a symbol of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Made in India’.
President’s Visit to Kerala
President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on October 21, 2025, for a four-day visit to Kerala. Her itinerary includes a visit to Sabarimala for darshan during the Thulam monthly pooja, unveiling a statue of former President K. R. Narayanan at Raj Bhavan, and attending events at St. Thomas College, Pala, and St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam.
Japan Elects First Female Prime Minister
Japan marked a historic milestone by electing Takaichi Sanae as its first female Prime Minister. Leading the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), she secured 125 votes in the Upper House and 237 votes in the Lower House. Takaichi will form a coalition government with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), focusing on economic reform, national security, energy, and foreign policy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated her, expressing eagerness to strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
Bihar Assembly Elections: Election Commission Guidelines
The Election Commission mandated pre-certification from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) for all print advertisements on pre-poll and poll days during the Bihar Assembly elections, scheduled for November 6 and 11, 2025. Applications must be submitted two days in advance to ensure a fair campaign environment.
Indian Railways to Operate Special Trains
To manage the festive season rush, Indian Railways plans to operate around 8,000 special trains. Between October 1 and 19, 4,000 special trains facilitated travel for over 1 crore passengers. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed operations at the Railway Board’s War Room, commending staff efforts and extending Diwali greetings.
Weather Forecast: Heavy Rainfall Predicted
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal on October 21, 2025. Heavy rainfall is also expected in parts of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Mahe, Lakshadweep, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in several regions. Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with an AQI of 347.
Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat Address
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation on October 26, 2025, at 11 AM through the 127th episode of Mann Ki Baat on Akashvani. Suggestions can be submitted via the toll-free number 1800-11-7800, the Narendra Modi App, or MyGov Open Forum until October 24. The program will be broadcast live on Akashvani, Doordarshan, and other platforms, with a Telugu translation following the Hindi broadcast.
Tribute to Veteran Actor Govardhan Asrani
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the demise of veteran actor Govardhan Asrani, recognizing his contributions to Indian cinema. Modi noted that Asrani’s comedic roles and versatility entertained audiences for decades, leaving a lasting legacy.
US-China Trade Tensions Escalate
US President Donald Trump announced tariffs of up to 155% on Chinese goods starting November 1, 2025, unless a new trade deal is reached. Speaking during a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Trump highlighted existing 55% tariffs on Chinese exports and potential export controls on critical software. He expressed hope for a fair trade agreement during his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea.