Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 document notes that the path to their future lies in three pillars, i.e., its status as the centre of the Muslim and Arab world; its desire to emerge as a global investment powerhouse and as the epicentre of trade connecting Asia, Europe and Africa. In terms of socio-cultural efforts, it aims to upgrade infrastructure in Mecca and Medina and increase the number of Haj pilgrims from eight million in 2015 to 15 million in 2020, and eventually to 30 million every year by 2030.

The attack on Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama, J&K, shook the nation. This has been the worst hit on the security forces of its kind. The nation was horrified and there were widespread demands to respond with an iron hand. There were many firsts in this entire episode - be it the attack or the aftermath.