School Assembly News Headlines: 18 November 2025

1. India responds to tribunal-issued death sentence against former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina. It is linked to student protests.
India addressed the tribunal ruling sentencing former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for alleged crimes against humanity. The charges relate to last year’s student protests. Hasina had fled to India

2. Indian Navy to commission ‘Mahe’, first of eight anti-submarine warfare shallow-water craft with advanced weaponry and sensors.
‘Mahe’, the first of eight ASW shallow-water craft built by Cochin Shipyard, will join the Indian Navy. Equipped with torpedoes, multi-functional rockets, and advanced radars and sonars, it strengthens maritime defense capabilities.

3. India and US near finalising trade deal addressing reciprocal tariffs, oil duties, and enhanced market access.
India and the United States are close to concluding a trade pact. It will cover reciprocal 25% tariffs, additional oil duties, and enhanced market access, says Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal.

4. ISRO plans seven more launches this year. Chandrayaan-4 approved. LUPEX project with Japan progressing.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will conduct seven launches before the financial year ends. Chandrayaan-4, a lunar sample-return mission, has government approval. LUPEX with Japan progresses. Spacecraft production aims to triple in three years.

5. Sixteenth Finance Commission submits 2026–31 report to President Droupadi Murmu. Recommendations will guide Centre-state tax sharing.
The Sixteenth Finance Commission, chaired by Arvind Panagariya, submitted its 2026–31 report to President Droupadi Murmu. The commission recommends formulas for distributing federal taxes between the Centre, states, and local bodies.

6. Amit Shah pays homage to Lala Lajpat Rai on martyrdom day. Remembers his role in independence movement.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah honoured Lala Lajpat Rai on his martyrdom day. He remembered Rai’s revolutionary ideas, his inspiration to farmers and youth, and his role in uniting India’s freedom struggle.

1. Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death by Bangladesh Tribunal for crimes against humanity during student-led 2024 uprising.
Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for ordering violent crackdown on student protests, resulting in government collapse. Two senior aides also received sentences in the landmark ruling.

2. Pakistan’s central bank restricts dollar cash withdrawals for non-foreign currency account holders to protect rupee value.
The State Bank of Pakistan has directed banks to halt cash payments in US dollars to customers without foreign currency accounts. The move aims to prevent rupee devaluation and curb undocumented dollar outflows.

3. Poland confirms cancellation of Holocaust artefacts auction in Germany after survivor complaints and diplomatic discussions.
Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski announced the cancellation of a controversial Holocaust artefacts auction in Germany. He said he and German counterpart Johann Wadephul agreed to prevent such a scandal.

4. Ukraine signs letter of intent with France to explore purchase of up to 100 Rafale fighter jets.
Ukraine and France signed a letter of intent for Ukraine to acquire up to 100 Rafale fighter jets. The agreement also covers potential procurement of other French defence equipment. Further details remain undisclosed.

1. Italy’s direct FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification ends after 1–4 defeat to Norway at San Siro stadium.
Italy’s bid for direct World Cup 2026 entry ended following a 4–1 loss to Norway. Pio Esposito scored first, but Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa, and Jorgen Strand Larsen secured Norway’s victory.

2. Kumar Sangakkara appointed Rajasthan Royals head coach for IPL 2026, replacing Rahul Dravid after team’s performance review.
Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara returns as Rajasthan Royals head coach for IPL 2026. Former India captain Rahul Dravid exits following a structural review of the franchise’s performance during the 2025 season.

3. Jannik Sinner beats Carlos Alcaraz at Nitto ATP Finals, closing gap in their Big Titles tally
Jannik Sinner defeated ATP Year-End No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz to win the Nitto ATP Finals. The victory marks his 11th Big Title, narrowing the gap with Alcaraz to three trophies.

4. South Africa defeats India by 30 runs in opening Test. Kagiso Rabada praises team’s resilience and adaptability.
South African pacer Kagiso Rabada, sidelined due to injury, lauded his team’s ability to overcome setbacks. The World Test Championship holders won the opening Test by 30 runs, securing a 1-0 series lead.

1. SEBI opposes Jane Street’s request for additional data as US firm appeals trading ban in India.
Jane Street, temporarily barred for alleged market manipulation, regained access after paying a penalty. SEBI will tell the tribunal there is no reason to release further documents in ongoing appeal.

2. GST 2.0 and customs reforms expected to boost Indo-Japan investments, EV adoption, and advanced manufacturing collaboration.
A joint whitepaper by Grant Thornton Bharat and IJCCI notes that regulatory reforms and greater utilisation of the Indo-Japan FTA can enhance investment flows, promote clean mobility, and strengthen technology transfer in India.

3. India opens LPG market to US, signing deals to source around 10% of annual imports from American suppliers.
India’s state-run oil companies will source approximately 10% of the country’s LPG imports from the United States. The move aims to ensure stable, affordable energy and strengthen bilateral energy ties.

4. Anil Ambani skips ED summons again in FEMA case. Offers virtual appearance, which agency previously rejected.
Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani did not appear before the Enforcement Directorate for the second time in a FEMA case. He offered to depose via video, but the agency rejected it.