PM Narendra Modi hoists the Tricolour at the Red Fort on India's 80th Independence Day and unveils his roadmap for Viksit Bharat 2047. From Gen Z and free online coaching to energy security, self-reliance and new technology, Modi announces key priorities for India's future. The PM also warns of what he calls “Dimaagi Naxals” in power corridors, while Vande Mataram is rendered at the Red Fort for the first time during Independence Day celebrations.

Pakistan's preferential trade access to the European Union has come under renewed scrutiny after the European Parliament linked the country's GSP+ status to its human rights record and compliance with international obligations. In its latest observations, the European Parliament stressed that continued access to the GSP+ trade scheme depends on Pakistan's implementation of 27 international conventions covering human rights, labour rights, environmental protection, climate commitments and good governance. The resolution also highlighted the cases of rights activist Mahrang Baloch and lawyer Imaan Mazari while calling for greater protection of fundamental freedoms and democratic rights. European lawmakers further voiced concern over allegations of the weaponization of state institutions against dissenting voices. WATCH