TNPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS (ENGLISH) – 23.05.2025

Subject: National/Defense

The CERT-In SAMVAAD 2025 national cybersecurity conference was inaugurated in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, to address emerging cyber threats.
Organized by the Computer Emergency Response Team-India (CERT-In), it focuses on strengthening India’s cybersecurity framework.
Key discussions include cyber warfare, AI-driven threats, and the implications of recent attacks like the Hezbollah pager and radio set incidents.
Tamil Nadu’s role as a tech hub is highlighted, with the state pushing for cybersecurity innovations.
Concepts: National Cyber Security Policy 2013; evolving role of CERT-In in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
The conference aligns with India’s Digital India initiative, emphasizing secure digital governance.
Industry leaders and policymakers aim to draft a roadmap for cyber resilience by 2030.

2. India’s Capital Markets Projected to Grow Steadily in FY26

Subject: Economy

A recent report projects steady growth for India’s capital markets in FY26, driven by robust investor confidence.
BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty hit record highs, reflecting optimism in banking and tech sectors.
Tamil Nadu’s Global Investors Meet 2025 featured Chris Miller, author of Chip War, to boost semiconductor investments.
Concepts: SEBI’s role in regulating capital markets; impact of foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) on economic stability.
Challenges include global economic uncertainties due to U.S.-China trade tensions and Trump’s tariff policies.
India’s push for self-reliance in critical sectors like semiconductors aligns with Make in India.
Tamil Nadu aims to attract ₹5 lakh crore in investments through its investor-friendly policies.

3. EAM Jaishankar’s Europe Visit Strengthens India’s Global Ties

Subject: International

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a six-day visit to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany to deepen bilateral ties.
Focus areas include trade, defense cooperation, and India’s stance on inclusive global governance.
India led calls for inclusive energy governance at the recent BRICS ministers’ meet, emphasizing the Global South’s role.
Concepts: Multi-alignment policy; India’s strategic autonomy in navigating U.S.-China and Russia-West tensions.
Discussions in Europe will cover climate cooperation and India’s role in global forums like G20.
Tamil Nadu’s export-oriented industries, especially in IT and automobiles, benefit from such diplomatic engagements.
Challenges include balancing relations amidst Russia-Ukraine and U.S.-China geopolitical tensions.

4. Indian Armed Forces’ Operation Sindoor Targets Terror Infrastructure

Subject: Defense

The Indian Armed Forces conducted Operation Sindoor, a joint airstrike on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK on May 6–7, 2025.
The operation, monitored by PM Narendra Modi, was a retaliation for the Pahalgam terrorist attack (April 22, 2025), which killed 26 tourists.
Involved Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy, showcasing integrated defense capabilities.
Concepts: National Security Strategy; role of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in authorizing such operations.
Tamil Nadu’s defense manufacturing units, part of the Defence Corridor, contribute to India’s self-reliance in military hardware.
The operation reinforces India’s zero-tolerance policy toward cross-border terrorism.
Global reactions highlight concerns over escalating tensions in South Asia.

5. Tamil Nadu Legislative Developments: Focus on Women’s Safety

Subject: Polity

Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin introduced amendment bills in the Tamil Nadu Assembly to strengthen laws protecting women.
The bills aim to revise punishments for crimes against women, enhancing deterrence and victim support.
Concepts: State legislative powers under the Seventh Schedule; Article 15(3) enabling special provisions for women.
Tamil Nadu passed 45 bills in 2024, second only to Karnataka, with a focus on social welfare and governance.
The state’s rapid bill passage (many within a day) raises concerns about limited legislative debate.
Recent controversy: Governor R.N. Ravi left the Assembly without delivering his address on January 6, 2025, due to procedural disputes.
Tamil Nadu’s legislative push aligns with India’s broader gender justice initiatives under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.