As of December 20, 2025, several significant developments are shaping the global and national landscape. In a major diplomatic and economic milestone, India and Oman have officially signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This strategic trade deal is expected to provide Indian exporters duty-free access to nearly 99% of Oman’s market, signaling a deepening of ties in the Middle East. Simultaneously, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honored with the Order of Oman, the country’s highest civilian award, marking his 29th international recognition for strengthening bilateral relations. On the domestic front, the Indian Parliament recently witnessed intense debates following the passage of the VB-G RAM G Bill, which seeks to modernize rural employment by replacing the two-decade-old MGNREGA scheme. The new legislation aims to guarantee 125 days of work annually but has faced significant pushback from the Opposition. Meanwhile, northern India continues to battle severe environmental challenges. Dense fog and record-breaking air pollution levels in Delhi have led to school closures and the emergency installation of air purifiers in thousands of classrooms, while the BCCI was forced to scrap a major T20 match in Lucknow due to thick smog. Internationally, tensions remain high in Bangladesh following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, leading to widespread protests and heightened security concerns. In Europe, the European Union has approved a massive 90 billion euro loan package for Ukraine to bolster its defense and economic stability through 2026.