Overview This news article covers a range of topics relevant to the UPSC Civil Services exam, including political developments in Bihar, international relations involving the US, India, and other nations, investigations into electoral malpractices, and environmental concerns in Delhi. The article provides a snapshot of current events with potential implications for various aspects of governance and policy. Key Developments Political Affairs Tejashwi Yadav was declared the Chief Ministerial face of the Mahagathbandhan alliance in Bihar on October 23, 2025 . Mukesh Sahani , chief of Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) , was announced as the Deputy Chief Ministerial face. The announcement was made by Ashok Gehlot , senior observer for the Bihar Assembly polls . International Relations U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that West Bank annexation could endanger President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan . Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not attend the ASEAN summit in Malaysia ; he will participate virtually. President Trump claimed India will “almost stop” buying Russian oil by year-end. Governance and Law A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing “vote theft” in Karnataka , focusing on six suspects. Pakistan resumed Afghan transit trade after a 10-day suspension due to clashes. The government set a November 14 deadline for public feedback on draft rules for the National Sports Governance Act . Environmental Issues Delhi-NCR air quality remains ‘very poor’, with an overall AQI at 362 . UPSC Relevance This article is relevant to several sections of the UPSC syllabus: GS2: Polity and Governance – Political alliances, electoral malpractices, government policies. GS2: International Relations – India's foreign policy, relations with ASEAN, US, Russia, and Afghanistan. GS3: Economy – India's energy policy, trade relations. GS3: Environment – Air quality issues, pollution control measures. Exam Perspective Prelims Facts Key Dates: October 23, 2025 (Bihar alliance announcement), November 14 (deadline for sports act feedback). Political Figures: Tejashwi Yadav, Mukesh Sahani, Marco Rubio, Narendra Modi, Donald Trump. Organizations: Mahagathbandhan, ASEAN, SIT. Environmental Data: Delhi-NCR AQI at 362. Mains Analysis Analyze the impact of regional political alliances on governance and development in states like Bihar. Discuss the challenges and opportunities in India's foreign policy with respect to balancing relations with multiple countries (US, Russia). Evaluate the effectiveness of measures to combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Examine the role of SITs in investigating and addressing electoral malpractices. Essay Themes The dynamics of coalition politics in India. India's role in promoting regional stability and cooperation. Environmental sustainability and public health: Challenges and solutions.