India: Society

India's parliament passed a significant amendment to a 2019 transgender rights law, removing the right to self-identify one's gender. The move has drawn protests from activists who state it curbs fundamental LGBTQ rights. Domestically, Gujarat enacted a law mandating registration for live-in relationships, following a similar policy in Uttarakhand. Several states, including Andhra Pradesh and Sikkim, have also introduced financial incentives aimed at increasing birth rates, with experts noting the measures may not fully address demographic challenges.

Regional tensions have impacted Indian citizens abroad, with many stranded in Dubai due to flight disruptions, leading to overstay issues and appeals for government help. Others undertook risky escapes from the Middle East, with survivors returning from desert crossings. In a gesture of solidarity, people in Kashmir collected donations, including gold, for Iranians affected by conflict, an act for which the Iranian Embassy expressed gratitude. Indian media analyzed Iran's recent threats and propaganda, while the government denied claims about fake evacuation flights from Dubai.

In the pharmaceutical sector, Indian companies like Glenmark and Zydus are introducing low-cost generic versions of GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic, potentially priced as low as $14, which could greatly expand access to these treatments.