TNPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS (ENGLISH) – 13.06.2025

SUBJECT: POLITY

Tamil Nadu hosted a State Education Summit on June 23, 2025, in Chennai, reaffirming its opposition to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, particularly the three-language formula.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin emphasized preserving Tamil as the primary medium of instruction, arguing NEP undermines linguistic diversity and state autonomy.
The summit proposed a state-specific education model, focusing on inclusive curricula and vocational training, to be submitted to the Union Government.
Tamil Nadu has sought increased central funding for education without NEP compliance, following the Supreme Court’s rejection of its earlier plea on June 10, 2025.
Concept: Federalism (Article 246): Education is a concurrent subject, allowing states to tailor policies while adhering to national frameworks.
Significance: The summit strengthens Tamil Nadu’s advocacy for state-driven education policies, influencing other non-Hindi states.
The state plans to collaborate with Kerala and Karnataka to develop a regional education framework.

2. INDIA CONDUCTS SUCCESSFUL TEST OF HYPERSONIC MISSILE

SUBJECT: DEFENCE

On June 23, 2025, India successfully tested a hypersonic missile developed by DRDO from Odisha’s Abdul Kalam Island, achieving speeds above Mach 6.
The missile, equipped with advanced navigation and warhead delivery systems, enhances India’s strategic deterrence against regional threats.
The test aligns with DRDO’s recent transfer of nine defence technologies to Indian firms, boosting indigenous capabilities.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed it as a milestone in India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Concept: Strategic Deterrence: India’s focus on advanced weaponry to counter regional powers like China and Pakistan.
Significance: The test positions India among elite nations with hypersonic technology, strengthening its global defence stature.
International observers noted its implications for regional security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.

3. COVID-19 XFG VARIANT CASES RISE IN TAMIL NADU

SUBJECT: NATIONAL ISSUES

Tamil Nadu reported 25 new cases of the XFG variant of COVID-19 on June 23, 2025, raising its active case tally to 250, per the Union Health Ministry.
The state recorded one additional COVID-related death, contributing to India’s total active cases nearing 7,000.
Tamil Nadu has intensified surveillance under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, focusing on Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) monitoring.
The Centre has assured readiness with mock drills, while Tamil Nadu launched mobile testing units in high-risk areas.
Concept: Right to Health (Article 21): Public health measures are critical to ensuring life and personal liberty.
Significance: Highlights the need for robust healthcare infrastructure to manage recurring pandemics.
Public awareness campaigns in Tamil Nadu emphasize vaccination and masking to curb the variant’s spread.

4. INDIA STRENGTHENS TIES WITH ASEAN AT SUMMIT IN SINGAPORE

SUBJECT: INTERNATIONAL

On June 23, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the India-ASEAN Summit in Singapore, reinforcing India’s Act East Policy.
Discussions focused on trade, maritime security, and countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific, with emphasis on the India-ASEAN FTA review.
India pledged $100 million for ASEAN’s digital and green energy initiatives, enhancing regional connectivity.
Tamil Nadu’s industries, particularly electronics, were highlighted as key partners in ASEAN supply chains.
Concept: Multilateral Diplomacy: India’s engagement with ASEAN reflects its strategic autonomy in global alliances.
Significance: Strengthens India’s regional influence, countering China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
The summit laid groundwork for a trilateral maritime exercise with Singapore and Vietnam in 2026.

5. RBI LAUNCHES DIGITAL RUPEE PILOT FOR MSMEs IN TAMIL NADU

SUBJECT: ECONOMY

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) pilot for MSMEs in Tamil Nadu on June 23, 2025, targeting Coimbatore and Tiruppur.
The digital rupee aims to reduce transaction costs, enhance financial inclusion, and streamline cross-border trade for small businesses.
Tamil Nadu’s MSME sector, contributing 30% to the state’s GDP, is expected to benefit from faster digital payments.
The pilot follows Tamil Nadu’s top ranking in NITI Aayog’s Fiscal Health Index 2025, reflecting strong economic policies.
Concept: Monetary Policy: CBDC represents a shift towards digital financial ecosystems under RBI’s oversight.
Significance: Positions Tamil Nadu as a leader in fintech adoption, boosting its economic competitiveness.
The RBI plans to expand the pilot nationwide by December 2025, based on Tamil Nadu’s outcomes.