25 February 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : India begins the day with key diplomatic, security, and environmental developments, as New Delhi hosts an important international meeting while the armed forces respond to a natural crisis in the Northeast.
India to Host Second India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
India will host the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi today, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between India and the Arab world. The meeting is expected to focus on enhancing cooperation in trade, energy security, food supply chains, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.
Senior diplomats said the dialogue aims to build on the outcomes of the first meeting, with discussions also covering regional stability, global economic challenges, and collaboration in emerging sectors such as renewable energy and digital infrastructure. India’s growing engagement with West Asia has been a strategic priority, given the region’s importance for energy imports, investments, and the Indian diaspora.
Foreign ministers and senior representatives from several Arab nations are participating, reflecting the increasing institutionalisation of India-Arab relations beyond bilateral ties.
IAF Deployed to Tackle Forest Fires in Arunachal Pradesh
In the Northeast, the Indian Air Force has deployed helicopters to combat massive forest fires in Lohit Valley. The fires, fuelled by dry weather and strong winds, have affected large tracts of forested land, posing risks to wildlife and nearby villages.
IAF helicopters equipped with Bambi buckets are carrying out water-dropping operations in coordination with state authorities and forest officials. Officials said the difficult terrain and limited road access made aerial intervention crucial to contain the blaze.
The operation underscores the military’s role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, particularly in remote and ecologically sensitive regions like Arunachal Pradesh.
Other Developments to Watch Today
- Weather and Environment: Authorities across several states remain on alert for heatwave-like conditions and forest fire risks as temperatures rise earlier than usual this year.
- Economy and Markets: Investors are expected to track global cues and policy signals amid continued volatility in equity markets and concerns over global growth.
- Governance and Security: State administrations are reviewing preparedness for summer-related challenges, including water availability and fire prevention measures.
Why It Matters
Today’s developments highlight two parallel priorities for India — expanding its diplomatic footprint on the global stage while responding swiftly to domestic environmental challenges. As India deepens engagement with the Arab world and deploys critical resources to protect lives and ecosystems at home, these actions reflect both strategic ambition and operational readiness.
Summary
India hosts the second India-Arab foreign ministers’ meeting today as the IAF deploys helicopters to fight forest fires in Arunachal’s Lohit Valley, alongside key governance and environmental developments.