1. Tamil Nadu Assembly Adopts Resolution Against One Nation, One Election
Subject: Polity
- The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed a resolution opposing the Union Government’s “One Nation, One Election” proposal, arguing it undermines federalism and state autonomy.
- Chief Minister M.K. Stalin stated that simultaneous elections would weaken regional parties and disrupt state-specific governance cycles.
- The resolution urges the Centre to consult states extensively before implementing such a reform, citing logistical and democratic concerns.
- Tamil Nadu’s opposition aligns with other non-BJP-ruled states like Kerala and West Bengal, highlighting a growing Centre-State divide.
- Concept: Federal Structure (Article 1) defines India as a Union of States, with elections to state legislatures under state election commissions.
- The resolution reflects Tamil Nadu’s consistent stance on protecting state rights, seen in its earlier opposition to NEP 2020.
- The debate on simultaneous elections is expected to intensify as the Union Government pushes for constitutional amendments.
2. India Signs Defence Pact with Japan to Counter China’s Influence
Subject: International
- India and Japan signed a strategic defence cooperation agreement to enhance joint military exercises and technology sharing, aimed at countering China’s regional assertiveness.
- The pact includes co-development of stealth drones and maritime surveillance systems, strengthening Indo-Pacific security.
- Both nations reaffirmed commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, aligning with the Quad framework (India, Japan, US, Australia).
- The agreement follows recent tensions along the India-China LAC, underscoring India’s multi-alignment strategy.
- Concept: Multi-Vector Diplomacy allows India to balance strategic partnerships without aligning exclusively with any global power.
- The pact boosts India’s indigenous defence capabilities under Atmanirbhar Bharat, leveraging Japan’s advanced technology.
- India and Japan plan to conduct joint naval drills in the South China Sea by late 2025 to assert maritime rights.
3. Union Budget 2025-26: Focus on Green Economy
Subject: Economy
- The Union Finance Minister presented the 2025-26 Budget, allocating ₹2 lakh crore for green energy and sustainable infrastructure projects.
- Key initiatives include subsidies for electric vehicle manufacturing, green hydrogen production, and solar grid expansion.
- The budget aims to create 1 crore green jobs by 2030, aligning with India’s net-zero target by 2070.
- A new tax incentive scheme was introduced for MSMEs adopting renewable energy, boosting small-scale industries.
- Concept: Green Economy (SDG 8) promotes sustainable economic growth through low-carbon technologies and job creation.
- The budget also increased funding for coastal states like Tamil Nadu to develop offshore wind energy projects.
- Economists predict the budget will enhance India’s global standing in climate finance, attracting foreign investments.
4. Tamil Nadu Launches ₹1,000 Crore Coastal Defence Initiative
Subject: Defence
- Tamil Nadu announced a ₹1,000 crore Coastal Defence Initiative to strengthen maritime security along its 1,076 km coastline.
- The initiative includes deploying AI-based surveillance drones, coastal radar systems, and fast-response patrol boats.
- It aims to counter illegal fishing, smuggling, and potential security threats in the Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar.
- The state will collaborate with the Indian Coast Guard and DRDO for technology integration and training.
- Concept: Maritime Security is critical for India’s strategic interests, given its 7,516 km coastline and proximity to key shipping routes.
- Tamil Nadu’s initiative complements the Centre’s Sagarmala project, enhancing port security and coastal infrastructure.
- The project is expected to create 5,000 jobs in coastal districts, boosting local economies.
5. Supreme Court Rules on State Powers Over Industrial Alcohol
Subject: National Issues
- The Supreme Court delivered a landmark 9-judge bench verdict, affirming states’ rights to regulate industrial alcohol under the Concurrent List.
- The ruling resolves a long-standing Centre-State dispute, empowering states like Tamil Nadu to impose taxes and licensing norms.
- Tamil Nadu, a major producer of industrial alcohol, welcomed the verdict, expecting ₹5,000 crore in additional annual revenue.
- The judgment clarifies the scope of Entry 8 (State List) and Entry 52 (Union List), strengthening federal principles.
- Concept: Concurrent List (Seventh Schedule) allows both Centre and States to legislate on subjects like industrial alcohol, with state laws prevailing unless repugnant to central laws.
- The ruling may impact other federal disputes, including those over mining and education policies.
- Industry experts warn of potential regulatory fragmentation, urging uniform national standards.
