India's Ministry of External Affairs denounced Nepal's new Rs-100 banknote featuring a map claiming three Indian territories—Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura—calling it a "unilateral act" that "does not change ground reality." Nepal Rastra Bank issued the note with the revised map, which first appeared in May 2020 under KP Sharma Oli's government and was endorsed by Parliament. India sharply reacted then, rejecting the "artificial enlargement" of territorial claims. The Rs-100 is the only denomination featuring Nepal's map among banknotes (Rs 10-1,000). The note also depicts Mount Everest, rhododendron watermark, and references Lumbini as Buddha's birthplace. (PC: X)

India plans to procure five additional S-400 missile defence system squadrons from Russia, likely to be discussed during PM Modi's December summit with President Putin. The S-400 proved highly effective during Operation Sindoor, successfully neutralizing Pakistani drones. India signed a $5.43 billion deal in 2018 for five squadrons; three have been delivered. Moscow is pushing New Delhi to join the fifth-generation Sukhoi-57 fighter jet program as a development partner, not just a buyer, positioning it as Russia's answer to the F-35. The summit will also cover oil, energy cooperation, and trade MoUs. Chief of Air Staff AP Singh acknowledged the S-400's effectiveness but didn't confirm additional purchases. (PC: Wikipedia & Times Now)

The UAE has halted most visa issuances for Pakistanis amid concerns over criminal activities, officials revealed during a Senate committee meeting. The decision affects tourist, visit, and work permits, though existing visas remain valid. Pakistani officials warned restrictions could escalate into a full ban. The move follows high-profile incidents including begging rings, murders, drug rackets, and overstaying. Over 800,000 Pakistanis apply annually for Middle East visas. Saudi Arabia arrested 4,000 Pakistani beggars near Mecca and Madina. The UAE now requires police verification and only grants visas to blue and diplomatic passport holders. Pakistan's passport ranks fourth-worst globally for the third consecutive year.

At least 65 people died and over 300 remain missing in Hong Kong's deadliest fire in 77 years at Wang Fuk Court, Taipo. The Grade 5 blaze started in bamboo scaffolding and construction netting, spreading across seven of eight towers housing 4,600 residents. Authorities suggest substandard protective mesh and plastic, failing to meet fire standards, worsened the inferno. Police discovered sealed windows with foam material installed by maintenance contractors. The 1980s government-subsidized complex was undergoing lengthy renovation. Police arrested two directors and an engineering consultant on manslaughter suspicions for "gross negligence." Secretary Chris Tang noted non-compliant materials burned intensely and spread rapidly, causing uncontrollable fire.

Deepti Sharma made history at the Women's Premier League 2026 mega auction, becoming the costliest player after being sold to UP Warriorz for Rs 3.2 crore. She became the first women's cricketer to fetch over Rs 2.5 crore in two separate WPL auctions. Shikha Pandey was the second-most expensive Indian buy at Rs 2.4 crore, also acquired by UPW. New Zealand all-rounders Amelia Kerr (Mumbai Indians, Rs 3 crore) and Sophie Devine (Gujarat Giants, Rs 2 crore) were the highest overseas buys. The auction's biggest shocks included experienced Australian wicket-keeper Alyssa Healy and India's Women's World Cup 2025 winner Uma Chetry going unsold. (PC: NDTV)

A catastrophic blaze tore through the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po District, Hong Kong. The fire, which began on bamboo scaffolding around a 32‑storey tower undergoing renovation, spread rapidly across seven of eight towers, killing at least 65 people. Thick smoke and flames continued into a second day as firefighters searched charred apartments floor by floor. Over 900 residents were evacuated and about 70 people sustained injuries. Authorities arrested three men from the renovation company on suspicion of manslaughter and launched a wider investigation into building‑safety violations and possible use of substandard, flammable materials like Styrofoam. 

The court on Thursday refused to accept the Maharashtra government’s claim that ash from Hayli Gubbi — which erupted in Ethiopia on November 23 — caused Mumbai’s poor air quality. The bench noted that the city’s air quality index (AQI) had been “very poor” long before the eruption, with visibility “below 500 metres” even two days earlier. The court asked authorities to propose concrete pollution‑control measures, and directed the municipal body to act — particularly by enforcing construction‑site closures if AQI remains above 300. (PC: India Today)

A deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal has strengthened into Cyclone Ditwah, moving north-northwest at around 15 km/h. The India Meteorological Department warns the storm is likely to make landfall along the Tamil Nadu–Andhra Pradesh coast by 30 November, bringing heavy rainfall and high winds to the region. Evacuation preparations and alerts have been activated in coastal districts, with residents advised to stay tuned to updates and follow official guidance. Authorities urge fishermen to remain ashore and coastal settlements to brace for possible flooding and disruptions. (PC: X)

Investigators probing Hong Kong’s tragic high-rise fire at Wang Fuk Court suspect highly flammable Styrofoam board used during renovation played a key role in how rapidly the blaze spread. The foam was found on windows, reportedly part of construction materials installed to protect glass during works. Experts also warn that the bamboo scaffolding wrapped in plastic sheeting acted like a “chimney,” enabling flames to travel swiftly across the exterior of the densely packed towers. Authorities have arrested three construction executives amid gross-negligence manslaughter probes. 

The Supreme Court of India has directed comedian Samay Raina and three other comedians to use their platforms to host shows featuring successful stories of people with disabilities, to raise funds for their treatment. The court emphasized that this is a “social burden” rather than a punishment, urging well-known influencers to channel their popularity for a constructive public cause. The move follows criticism over previous insensitive content, underscoring that freedom of speech must respect human dignity. (PC: X)