Heavy Rains Lash Odisha and Surrounding Indian States as Depression Approaches Coast

Executive Summary

A depression over the Bay of Bengal intensified, triggering heavy rainfall across several Indian states including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and parts of Karnataka. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted heavy rain and thunderstorms with lightning, particularly impacting Andhra Pradesh until October 2. The depression was expected to cross the south Odisha-north Andhra Pradesh coast near Gopalpur on September 27 morning. The Odisha government took proactive measures to mitigate the impact, while Andhra Pradesh officials, including Home Minister V Anitha, directed preparedness actions such as setting up control rooms and deploying disaster response forces. Hyderabad experienced flooding in low-lying areas, prompting evacuation efforts. Similar disruptions occurred in southern Kerala and Kalaburagi district due to heavy rains and water release from reservoirs, causing flooding along the Bhima river. Relief operations were underway, with government officials inspecting affected areas and coordinating responses.

Situation

The weather system began as a well-marked low-pressure area over the northwest and central Bay of Bengal, moving west-northwestwards and concentrating into a depression. The IMD issued bulletins forecasting the system's landfall and associated heavy rainfall. Telangana districts were placed under orange and yellow alerts due to expected heavy rainfall. Urban flooding in Hyderabad disrupted traffic and necessitated deployment of dewatering pumps and emergency services. In Kerala, heavy rains flooded roads and low-lying areas, affecting daily life in districts like Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Idukki. In Kalaburagi, flooding along the Bhima river prompted a red alert in Maharashtra and an orange alert locally, with ministers visiting affected villages and overseeing relief efforts. The timeline from September 26 to 27 saw escalating rainfall and responses, with authorities emphasizing readiness and public safety.

International Impact

While the heavy rains and depression are primarily a national concern, the situation underscores the vulnerability of coastal and riverine regions in India to climate-related weather events, which have global implications for disaster preparedness and climate adaptation strategies. The government's proactive disaster management efforts reflect commitments to mitigating climate impacts. Internationally, such events may attract humanitarian attention and cooperation in disaster risk reduction.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Odisha Government: Took necessary steps to address the impact of the depression and prepare for landfall.

Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V Anitha: Directed officials to remain fully prepared, set up control rooms, install warning boards, and deploy disaster response forces.

India Meteorological Department (IMD): Provided forecasts and warnings about the depression and heavy rainfall to guide preparedness.

Telangana Authorities: Issued orange and yellow alerts, deployed emergency teams, and managed urban flooding.

Kalaburagi District Officials: Coordinated relief operations and assessed damage due to flooding along the Bhima river.

Source Perspectives

The Hindu: Provided detailed live updates on rainfall, government responses, and local impacts with a focus on preparedness and public safety.

India Engages with U.S. on H-1B Visa Fee Hike Amidst Policy Changes

Executive Summary

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed ongoing engagement with the Trump administration and other stakeholders in response to the U.S. decision to increase the H-1B visa application fee to $100,000. The MEA emphasized the importance of skilled talent mobility for innovation, economic growth, and wealth creation in both countries. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security had issued a proposed rulemaking notice and that industry stakeholders had a month to submit comments. The Indian government remains engaged at various levels, including diplomatic talks during the UN General Assembly, to ensure that the interests of Indian nationals and the broader bilateral relationship are considered. The fee hike is expected to impact Indian nationals significantly, as they have accounted for nearly 70% of H-1B visa recipients in recent years. The U.S. has also imposed tariffs on Indian goods, complicating the bilateral trade relationship.

Situation

The Trump administration's decision to drastically increase the H-1B visa application fee represents a significant policy shift affecting Indian skilled workers seeking employment in the U.S. The MEA has responded by closely monitoring developments and engaging with U.S. officials and industry representatives. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, focusing on trade, tariffs, and broader bilateral issues. The U.S. has provided clarifications and FAQs on the new visa application process, but the situation is evolving. India is also reviewing the impact of U.S. tariffs on Indian pharmaceutical products and other goods, with ongoing bilateral trade negotiations continuing amid these challenges.

International Impact

The H-1B visa fee hike has significant implications for the global technology and innovation sectors, given the reliance on skilled Indian professionals in the U.S. economy. It may affect talent mobility, bilateral trade relations, and economic cooperation between India and the U.S. The policy change has drawn attention from industry stakeholders and governments worldwide, raising concerns about potential talent shortages and economic repercussions. India's diplomatic engagement underscores the importance of maintaining strong ties and addressing mutual interests in trade and immigration policies.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Government of India (MEA): Engaged with the U.S. administration and stakeholders to advocate for skilled talent mobility and address the impact of the fee hike.

Trump Administration (U.S. Department of Homeland Security): Implemented the proposed rule to increase H-1B visa application fees as part of immigration policy reforms.

Indian Industry and Stakeholders: Concerned about the increased costs and potential barriers to skilled Indian workers obtaining H-1B visas.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal: Held talks with U.S. officials to discuss trade, tariffs, and visa-related issues.

Source Perspectives

The Hindu: Reported on the MEA's engagement and the evolving situation regarding the H-1B visa fee hike, highlighting its impact on Indian nationals and bilateral relations.

India Rebukes Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's UNGA Speech, Denounces Terrorism Allegations

Executive Summary

At the United Nations General Assembly, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accused India of unprovoked aggression, targeting civilians, and violating territorial integrity, while falsely claiming Pakistan shot down seven Indian jets during recent military confrontations. He also accused India of violating the Indus Water Treaty. In response, India delivered a sharp rebuttal through diplomat Petal Gahlot, labeling Sharif's remarks as 'absurd theatrics' and accusing Pakistan of glorifying terrorism. India highlighted Pakistan's history of sheltering terrorists, including the Pahalgam attack and shielding terror groups at the UN Security Council. India condemned Pakistan's duplicity and its long-standing tradition of exporting terrorism, referencing Pakistan's harboring of Osama bin Laden and operation of terrorist camps. The exchange underscored ongoing tensions between the two countries and their conflicting narratives on security and terrorism.

Situation

The diplomatic exchange at the UNGA took place on September 27, 2025, with Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif presenting allegations against India, including claims of military aggression and violations of international agreements. Sharif praised U.S. President Donald Trump for mediating a ceasefire after May's military actions and accused India of exploiting the Pahalgam attack politically. India exercised its right of reply, with Petal Gahlot criticizing Pakistan's foreign policy centered on terrorism, citing specific incidents and Pakistan's history of sheltering terrorists. The situation reflects the entrenched hostility and mutual accusations between India and Pakistan, particularly concerning Kashmir and cross-border terrorism. The rhetoric at the UN highlights the challenges in diplomatic dialogue and peace efforts in the region.

International Impact

The India-Pakistan exchange at the UNGA reverberates internationally, drawing attention to the persistent conflict and security issues in South Asia. It influences global perceptions of terrorism, regional stability, and international efforts to mediate peace. The accusations and rebuttals impact diplomatic relations not only bilaterally but also with other countries involved in counterterrorism and regional security. The involvement of the UN Security Council and references to international law highlight the global stakes in the dispute. The rhetoric may affect international diplomatic engagement and aid considerations in the region.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: Accused India of aggression, targeting civilians, and violating treaties; claimed Pakistan's defense actions were justified and professional.

India (Diplomat Petal Gahlot): Rebuked Pakistan's speech as theatrics glorifying terrorism; highlighted Pakistan's history of terrorism sponsorship and duplicity.

United Nations General Assembly: Platform for the exchange of accusations and rebuttals between India and Pakistan.

Source Perspectives

The Times of India: Provided detailed coverage of the UNGA exchange, emphasizing India's rebuttal and the context of ongoing India-Pakistan tensions.