India’s next nationwide census will start in 2025 and conclude in 2026, marking a shift with expanded data collection on religion, sect, and caste categories, according to government sources. For the first time, citizens may specify their sect affiliations, including distinctions like Shia-Sunni or Lingayats. Major political parties, including JDU and LJP, are pressing for comprehensive caste data, with leaders emphasizing that such data supports social policies. Congress has criticized the government’s stance, calling it a betrayal of the OBC community. The census will be conducted in 2035, 2045, and 2055, adjusting from its traditional 10-year cycle.

In Jammu & Kashmir's Sunderbani sector, Indian Army dog Phantom was killed during an anti-terror operation on Monday after drawing enemy fire while troops closed in on terrorists. The White Knight Corps honored the Belgian Malinois on social media, saluting his courage and dedication. Phantom, born on May 25, 2020, sustained fatal injuries in the encounter. One terrorist was neutralized, and additional warlike materials were seized. Security forces continue to search the area after an early-morning attack on an Army convoy, which included firing at an ambulance, near the Assan temple along the LoC.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez inaugurated TATA’s C-295 Aircraft Manufacturing Hub in Vadodara, Gujarat, marking a major milestone for India’s defence sector. Under a 2021 agreement, Airbus will deliver 16 C-295 aircraft from Spain, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured locally at TATA’s new facility. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the hub as India's first private sector military aircraft final assembly line, supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative. This facility is set to enhance India's defence agility and strengthen supply chains by enabling manufacturing, assembly, testing, and maintenance on Indian soil.

Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh have introduced heavy fines and jail terms for those contaminating food with substances like spit, after social media videos showing alleged incidents sparked public outrage. Uttarakhand offenders face fines up to INR 100,000, while Uttar Pradesh proposes up to 10-year imprisonment. However, opposition parties and experts caution these laws may risk targeting specific communities, as seen in viral videos with unverified religious claims. The Indian Express criticized these measures as potentially divisive. Amid India's ongoing food safety concerns, officials advocate for CCTV in kitchens and staff verification to deter unhygienic practices.

McDonald's has confirmed that its Quarter Pounder beef patties are not linked to the recent E. coli outbreak that affected 75 individuals across 13 states, resulting in one death. The source of contamination was identified as slivered onions supplied by Taylor Farms, which McDonald's ceased using on October 22. The outbreak, first reported on September 27, had 26 cases in Colorado, the most affected state. The CDC reported that 22 of the 61 sickened individuals were hospitalized. McDonald's has ensured that all contaminated products have been removed from their restaurants and plans to resume Quarter Pounder sales soon.

After years of delay, India's national census is set to start in 2025 and continue through 2026, according to a Zee News report. Originally planned for 2021, the census was postponed due to COVID-19. This survey will mark India’s first digital census, utilizing mobile apps for data collection and a dedicated portal for management. The government previously announced its intent in 2019 but faced pandemic-induced challenges. The census cycle will shift to every 10 years, with the next planned for 2035. There’s still no confirmation if caste data will be included, despite ongoing calls from opposition parties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez conducted a 2.5 km roadshow in Vadodara, Gujarat, on Monday, attracting a large crowd. The roadshow stretched from the airport to the new Tata Advanced Systems facility, where the leaders inaugurated India’s first Tata-Airbus aircraft manufacturing complex. This facility will produce C-295 military transport aircraft, marking a milestone in India’s defense production capabilities. PM Modi emphasized that the collaboration strengthens India-Spain ties and boosts "Make in India" in defense manufacturing. The C-295 project will enhance India's self-reliance in military technology and create substantial local employment.

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud addressed criticism over his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Ganesh Puja, emphasizing that such gatherings focus on judicial infrastructure, not judicial matters. Chandrachud, set to retire in November, highlighted that routine interactions with government leaders address the need for new court buildings and judge accommodations. He stated, “We know our duties in the democratic system of governance,” adding that judicial independence remains protected. Similar meetings between Chief Justices and Chief Ministers, he noted, are customary across states to maintain productive dialogue.

A suspected terrorist was killed following an attack on an Army vehicle in Akhnoor, Jammu district, on Monday morning, officials reported. Around 7 am in the Batal area, three terrorists opened fire on the vehicle. Security forces quickly cordoned off the area and initiated a manhunt. Over the past week, Jammu and Kashmir has seen a rise in militant attacks, with 12 people, including two soldiers, losing their lives in separate incidents. A recent ambush in Gulmarg claimed four lives, while migrant workers have also been targeted. Security forces are on high alert ahead of the Diwali festival season.

The ISKCON temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, received a bomb threat on October 27. The email threat warned of an attack by ISIS, prompting temple staff to alert the police. Security was immediately tightened as the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) and dog squad conducted a thorough search of the temple grounds. No explosives or suspicious items were found. Just days before, two major hotels in Tirupati also received similar hoax threats. Police have launched an investigation to trace the source of these emails and ensure the safety of the temple and surrounding areas.