1. Supreme Court Dismisses AIADMK’s Plea on Naming Welfare Schemes
Subject: Polity
- The Supreme Court dismissed a challenge by AIADMK MP C.Ve. Shanmugam against naming Tamil Nadu’s outreach programme ‘Ungaludan Stalin’ after CM MK Stalin, calling it “misconceived.”
- The court emphasized that naming welfare schemes after leaders is a common practice and does not violate legal principles.
- The decision upholds the Madras High Court’s earlier ruling, which imposed restrictions on naming schemes after living personalities.
- This ruling reinforces the judiciary’s role in balancing political branding with public welfare objectives.
- Tamil Nadu’s political landscape continues to see debates over symbolic gestures, reflecting the state’s strong regional identity.
- The case highlights the ongoing rivalry between DMK and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu’s polity.
2. Tamil Nadu Addresses Coastal Ecosystem Threats
Subject: Environment and Economy
- The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department flagged Kamarajar Port’s role in spreading invasive species via unregulated ballast water discharge.
- Ballast water introduces non-native organisms, disrupting Tamil Nadu’s coastal ecosystems and threatening marine biodiversity.
- The department seeks stricter regulations to monitor ballast water, protecting fisheries and tourism sectors.
- Tamil Nadu’s mangrove restoration under the Green Tamil Nadu Mission doubled coverage to 9,000 hectares (2021–2024), enhancing coastal resilience.
- Local communities, especially women, are involved in mangrove planting, linking conservation with livelihoods.
- These efforts align with national initiatives like the Namami Gange-inspired Vembanad Lake Rejuvenation Project.
3. India–UK Trade Agreement Enhances Economic Ties
Subject: International and Economy
- India and the UK signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), granting zero-duty access for 99% of Indian export tariff lines.
- The agreement boosts sectors like textiles, gems, and processed foods, with Tamil Nadu aiming to revive its textile and leather industries.
- The India–UK Vision 2035 targets doubling bilateral trade to $56 billion by 2030, focusing on AI, 6G, and critical minerals.
- Defence cooperation includes a 10-year roadmap for joint R&D in electric propulsion and directed energy weapons.
- The agreement strengthens India’s strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific, countering regional economic challenges.
- Tamil Nadu, facing a declining FDI share (from 11% to 7%), seeks to leverage this deal for economic growth.
4. Operation SHIELD Bolsters National Security Preparedness
Subject: Defence
- Mock drills under Operation SHIELD were conducted near India’s western border to test readiness against air raids, drone attacks, and missile strikes.
- The drills involved civil defence volunteers and simulated mass evacuations to enhance rapid response capabilities.
- Tamil Nadu, with its strategic coastline, is likely to conduct similar maritime security exercises to protect its shores.
- The operation reflects India’s proactive approach to countering cross-border threats amid rising regional tensions.
- Investments in indigenous defence technologies, such as drones and precision-guided missiles, support these efforts.
- Coordination between state and central agencies is emphasized to ensure robust national security.
5. India Elected to UN ECOSOC for 2026–28 Term
Subject: International
- India secured a seat on the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for 2026–28 with strong global support.
- ECOSOC provides a platform for discussing economic, social, and humanitarian policies, aligning with India’s sustainable development goals.
- India will advocate for poverty reduction, employment generation, and cultural cooperation globally.
- Tamil Nadu’s MSME sector and renewable energy initiatives align with ECOSOC’s focus on economic well-being.
- The election enhances India’s leadership in addressing global challenges like inequality and climate change.
- India’s participation will strengthen ties with international financial systems, such as the World Bank, for policy coherence.
