October 25, 2026 | Sunday | LightndNow News Desk
From severe weather warnings along India’s eastern coast to cybersecurity initiatives, political disputes and growing tensions in West Asia, Sunday brought several significant developments at home and abroad. Here’s your complete daily news roundup.
1. Cyclone Arnab: Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Prepare for Severe Weather
Coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are on high alert as Cyclone Arnab is forecast to intensify over the Bay of Bengal.
Weather forecasts indicate that the storm could cross the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds and potentially dangerous coastal conditions.
Odisha authorities have begun precautionary measures, including deploying disaster response personnel, preparing evacuations and cancelling leave for officials in vulnerable districts.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to follow official weather updates and emergency instructions.
2. PM Modi Highlights Growing Cybersecurity Threats
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a Reserve Bank of India data centre and cybersecurity training institute in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on Sunday.
The facilities, developed at a reported cost of ₹169 crore, are intended to strengthen India’s banking technology and cybersecurity capabilities.
During the inauguration, Modi warned that modern conflicts are increasingly fought through attacks on digital infrastructure and economic systems.
The development highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity as India’s banking and financial services become more digitally connected.
3. India Calls for Diplomacy Amid Global Conflicts
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has emphasised the importance of diplomacy in resolving ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia.
Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Jaishankar highlighted how conflicts can disrupt economic stability and affect people far beyond the countries directly involved.
India reiterated its willingness to work with international partners to support peaceful solutions.
4. Kharge’s Remarks Spark Political Controversy
A political dispute erupted following remarks made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge about Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an event in Patna.
Senior BJP leaders criticised the remarks, while the Congress maintained its criticism of the ruling party and raised allegations concerning electoral practices.
The controversy added to the ongoing political confrontation between the government and the opposition.
5. West Asia: Iran and US Continue Indirect Communications
Tensions remain elevated in West Asia amid concerns about renewed military confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Iran has indicated that diplomatic messages are still being exchanged with Washington through intermediaries despite stalled negotiations.
Meanwhile, reports of missile and drone activity targeting Saudi Arabia, along with continued violence in Gaza, have increased concerns about regional security.
International diplomatic efforts remain important as governments seek to prevent a wider escalation.
6. Business: Steel Investment and Upcoming IPOs in Focus
India’s business sector saw significant developments, with Steel Authority of India Limited approving a reported ₹1,714-crore modernisation plan for its Alloy Steels Plant in Durgapur.
Separately, five upcoming initial public offerings are expected to collectively seek approximately ₹2,600 crore from investors.
These developments reflect continuing investment activity across industrial manufacturing and capital markets.
7. Sports: India Records Strong Kabaddi Performances
India’s men’s and women’s kabaddi teams recorded victories at the inaugural Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026.
The women’s team defeated Uganda, while the men’s team registered a win against Malaysia.
The results underline India’s strong presence in international kabaddi as the competition continues.
The Bigger Picture
October 25 has been marked by developments that connect public safety, national security, economic investment and international relations.
The immediate priority for coastal communities is cyclone preparedness. At the national level, cybersecurity and digital resilience remain important themes, while diplomatic tensions abroad continue to demand attention.
LightndNow will continue following the developments that matter most to readers across India and around the world.
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