In the complex and often tense dynamics between China and its global counterparts, the idea of a "reset" in relations periodically emerges in political discourse. However, the reality is far more nuanced, and a true reset with China is not realistically achievable in the near term. Several factors contribute to this challenging reality, rooted deeply in political, strategic, and economic considerations.

Firstly, China's rising global influence and assertiveness have fundamentally altered the landscape. Over recent decades, China’s economic power and geopolitical reach have surged, shifting the balance in its favor compared to many countries, including India and Western democracies. This ascent has diminished the incentives for China to engage in conciliatory resets, as it now wields greater leverage to advance its own interests without needing to accommodate demands.

Secondly, unresolved territorial disputes and mutual mistrust continue to cloud diplomatic efforts. For example, the border conflicts between China and India stretch over thousands of kilometers, with rival claims entrenched in every sector. Despite long-standing mechanisms aimed at de-escalation, such as the Special Representatives talks initiated in 2003, progress has been minimal. These deep-rooted issues create significant barriers to a reset, as trust is a crucial prerequisite for any meaningful diplomatic breakthrough.

Moreover, the global strategic environment complicates matters further. Countries like India are wary of allowing China to shape or limit their international partnerships due to concerns over sovereignty and regional influence. Attempts to reset ties have often faced setbacks amid competing ambitions such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative and its alliances in the region, which complicate India’s and others' strategic calculations.

A reset, if at all considered, would require substantial political will and a shift in mindset. For instance, India must balance its strategic autonomy with the reality of China’s power, and both nations would need to prioritize mutual trust over suspicion to foster constructive dialogue. However, such a political decision is not straightforward and is impeded by historical grievances, ongoing border tensions, and geopolitical rivalries.
In conclusion, while dialogue and cooperation remain important, a full reset of relations with China is not a practical possibility at this stage. The relationship is characterized by a mix of rivalry, cautious engagement, and strategic competition that makes a clean slate unrealistic. Instead, countries must navigate this complex relationship with careful diplomacy, balancing engagement with vigilance, and focusing on manageable areas of cooperation without overlooking the core issues that persistently challenge the relationship.
Disclaimer: This Image is taken from MIT.

The Haryana government has decided to hand over the investigation into the death of a 19-year-old teacher, Manisha, to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) amid widespread public outrage and demands for a fair probe. Manisha’s body was discovered in a field in Bhiwani district on August 13, two days after she went missing. The case has stirred protests and political pressure, prompting government action to ensure an impartial inquiry.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed the government's commitment to transparency and justice for Manisha and her family. He acknowledged the family’s demand for a CBI investigation and assured that all efforts were underway to deliver a thorough and unbiased investigation. Manisha had disappeared on August 11, reportedly after leaving school to inquire about admission to a nursing college. Initial police investigations pointed toward suicide, alleging that Manisha consumed poison intentionally. Authorities cited a suicide note found near her body, along with evidence of insecticide purchased by her. The police confirmed the presence of poison in her body fluids and ruled out any signs of sexual assault in their post-mortem reports.

Despite these findings, Manisha's father, Sanjay, rejected the suicide theory and has refused to cremate her body, demanding justice and a more comprehensive investigation. The father's stance has resonated with villagers who continue to demand accountability, resulting in protests and road blockades in the Bhiwani area.

The government’s decision to suspend mobile internet and bulk SMS services for 48 hours in Bhiwani and Charkhi Dadri was aimed at curbing misinformation and maintaining law and order amid heightened tensions and unrest. Political parties, including the Congress, have criticized the Haryana state government for what they describe as negligence and failure to maintain law and order. Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda accused the government of attempting to prematurely conclude the case as a suicide without proper investigation, calling for a CBI-led probe to uncover the truth.

The case has highlighted the challenges authorities face in dealing with sensitive incidents involving young individuals, emphasizing the need for transparent processes and swift justice to maintain public confidence. With the case now transferred to the CBI, there is cautious hope that a more impartial and detailed investigation will shed light on the circumstances surrounding Manisha’s tragic death and bring closure to her family and community. 

Disclaimer: This image is taken from X.

The Baloch Raji Aajoi Sangar (BRAS), an alliance of several Baloch armed groups advocating for the independence of Balochistan from Pakistan, has recently claimed responsibility for a series of attacks in different parts of Balochistan between August 11 and August 14, 2025. According to a statement released by its spokesperson, Baloch Khan, these coordinated operations targeted Pakistani security forces and government installations, underscoring BRAS’s commitment to intensifying their armed resistance.

One of the notable incidents during this period included a grenade attack on the office of the Deputy Commissioner in Kharan district during the Independence Day celebrations. The group also reported multiple clashes with state forces, including a fierce encounter in the Gajro Koor area where one of their members lost his life while helping comrades escape an ambush. BRAS emphasized these actions as part of their continued fight against what they perceive as Pakistani and foreign exploitation of Balochistan’s rich natural resources and political autonomy.

BRAS was formed in 2018 as a coalition of prominent Baloch insurgent groups, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), and Baloch Republican Army (BRA). This unity was aimed at improving coordination and effectiveness among the fragmented separatist groups. The alliance has been responsible for escalating attacks across the region, targeting mainly Pakistani military and security forces, along with Chinese assets linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The group’s ideology centers on Marxist-leftist nationalism, with a clear goal of achieving Balochistan’s full independence and ending foreign influence, particularly that of Pakistan and China. Despite ongoing military operations against them by Pakistani security forces, BRAS vows to persist with its armed struggle, asserting that only a united, organized resistance can secure genuine liberation for the Baloch people. This continuing insurgency poses significant security challenges in the region and complicates geopolitical interests tied to development projects and Pakistani state authority.
Disclaimer: This Image is taken from The Hawk.

The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir praised the Tiranga Horse Rally organized by nomadic tribes in Rajouri district under the Har Ghar Tiranga initiative, calling it “truly inspiring.” The LG’s official X account posted: “Tiranga Horse Rally by Nomadic Tribals in Rajouri is truly inspiring. With pride in their hearts, every citizen is marching ahead on the glorious path of infinite possibilities. @dmrajouri #HarGharTiranga.”

Ahead of the 79th Independence Day, Rajouri hosted a grand Tiranga Rally on Thursday featuring a 2-kilometre-long National Flag, attracting large crowds and patriotic fervour. Police were deployed to ensure security. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Bhaderwah valley witnessed a vibrant Tiranga Rally organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Led by SDPO Bhaderwah Shoket Ali, police personnel, students, and locals participated, waving a 100-meter-long national flag to promote patriotism and unity.

Speaking on the event, SDPO Ali said the rally aimed to foster unity and remind the youth of the sacrifices made for India’s freedom. The procession started from New Bus Stand Kotli, passed through major streets, and concluded at the historic Seri Bazaar. The 100-meter flag was a major highlight, eliciting cheers and applause from onlookers. Enthusiasts lined the streets waving flags and chanting slogans such as “Tiranga Hamare Jaan Hai, Tiranga Hamare Shaan Hai.” NCC cadet Akshay described it as a proud and memorable moment. The rally concluded with chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” setting a spirited tone for Independence Day celebrations.

On August 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed delight over the “phenomenal” response to the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, highlighting the deep patriotic spirit of the Indian people and their pride in the Tricolour. He encouraged citizens to continue sharing photos and selfies on harghartiranga.com. The Ministry of Culture also expressed excitement over the nationwide enthusiasm, noting heartwarming images from Kashmir to Lakshadweep and Gujarat to Sikkim, showing the strong connection every Indian has with the National Flag.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Cities across the globe are experiencing a surprising side effect of climate change—a surge in rat populations. As global temperatures rise, urban environments are becoming more hospitable to these resilient creatures, causing a boom in their numbers that presents growing challenges for public health and city management. Scientists studying urban rat trends have found that warming climates, combined with factors like dense human populations and shrinking green spaces, create a perfect storm for these rodents to thrive. Rats are highly adaptable and opportunistic, often capitalizing on human-generated waste and shelter. Warmer winters in urban areas mean rats face fewer challenges in surviving harsh weather, extending their active foraging and breeding seasons significantly. This longer reproductive window leads to quicker population growth. For example, cities such as Washington, D.C., New York, San Francisco, and Toronto have reported substantial increases in rat sightings, with some experiencing growth rates several times higher than others.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA. 

As a ceasefire holds, residents near the Thai-Cambodian border remain cautiously hopeful about lasting peace. Teresa Tang talks with CNA correspondents Jack Board and Leong Wai Kit, who are reporting live from the scene.

Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner have purchased an Albanian island for over $1 billion. The island, one of the last undeveloped in the Mediterranean, will be turned into a luxury resort after unexploded ordnance from past conflicts is cleared from the site.

Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from The Guardian.

A town in Alsace, France, banned tap water after high levels of PFAs, or "forever chemicals," were found. These toxic substances, used in many everyday products, don’t break down easily and are now present in water, soil, and even human blood — raising concerns about what might be in your own tap water.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from The Guardian.