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Thursday, January 8, 2026
TopicMali

Topic: Mali

Who are Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, al-Qaeda linked group behind abduction of 3 Indians in Mali 

The terrorist group has emerged as most active in the Sahel, with a footprint across eight countries. It has been conducting numerous attacks across Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.

3 Indians abducted by al-Qaeda-linked terrorists in Mali. India condemns ‘deplorable act’

Mali’s law & order has deteriorated since fall of Muammar Gaddafi regime in Libya in 2011, with proliferation of Libyan weapons fuelling terrorist movements across greater Sahel.

Mali’s military junta has made homosexuality a crime. Here’s what the new law says

Not only is same-sex practice now criminal and punishable by law in Mali, but anyone seen to be favourable to homosexuality can also be prosecuted.

Military rule is on the rise in Africa. Some blame Russia

Some emphasise pre-independence weaknesses such as poverty and corruption that made Africans disenchanted with democracy.

Malian political parties, civil society groups reject junta’s order to suspend political activities

Astonished by decision, they called it 'serious violation … of democratic freedoms'. Signatories to the declaration said they rejected the decree & would challenge it in court.

On Camera

How artificial intelligence is reshaping terrorism and state security risks

Terrorist groups are increasingly using AI for propaganda, recruitment and attacks, forcing states to rethink security strategies.

2025 marked key point in India’s power sector: Clean energy surge pushed coal power into rare decline

Coal-based power generation fell 3% in 2025 while renewable capacity surged to 40% of India’s installed power mix, according to India Power Sector Review 2025 by CREA.

Bangladesh-Pakistan look to expand ties to defence procurement as Dhaka shows ‘interest’ in JF-17s

Pakistan military said it has assured Bangladesh of fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft during high level defence meet held Tuesday.

A year-end Mea Culpa in National Interest—The Army-Islam combo doesn’t kill democracy

Many of you might think I got something so wrong in National Interest pieces written this year. I might disagree! But some deserve a Mea Culpa. I’d deal with the most recent this week.