1. Tamil Nadu’s Stance Against ONGC Hydrocarbon Exploration in Cauvery Delta
Subject: Polity/National Issues
- The Tamil Nadu government has reiterated its opposition to ONGC’s hydrocarbon exploration in the Cauvery Delta, citing risks to agriculture and water resources.
- Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has called for public consultations, responding to protests by farmers in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, and Nagapattinam districts.
- The issue highlights federal tensions, as Tamil Nadu challenges the central government’s environmental clearances under Article 246, which governs resource allocation.
- The state is considering a resolution in the Legislative Assembly to demand a halt to the project, reflecting polity concerns over state autonomy.
- Environmentalists warn of potential soil degradation and groundwater depletion, critical for the delta’s rice production.
- The controversy is a key electoral issue, with opposition parties like AIADMK also voicing support for farmers.
- Tamil Nadu has proposed alternative energy projects, such as green hydrogen, to meet national energy goals sustainably.
2. Ongoing Supreme Court Hearing on Tamil Nadu Governor’s Powers
Subject: Polity
- The Supreme Court continues to hear a Presidential Reference under Article 143 regarding Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi’s delay in assenting to state bills.
- The reference follows disputes over the Governor withholding assent to bills, including those related to state university appointments, raising constitutional questions.
- Tamil Nadu’s DMK government argues that the Governor’s actions violate Article 200, which mandates timely action on bills passed by the state legislature.
- The case could clarify the extent of gubernatorial discretion, impacting state-center relations across India.
- A five-judge bench, led by the Chief Justice, is tasked with providing an advisory opinion, potentially setting a precedent for other states.
- The DMK has accused the Governor of acting as a central government agent, escalating political friction in Tamil Nadu.
- The outcome may influence the balance of power between elected state governments and appointed governors.
3. India Responds to U.S. Tariff Threats Over Russian Oil Imports
Subject: International/Economy
- India faces potential U.S. tariffs of up to 50% on exports due to its continued purchase of Russian oil, amid global geopolitical tensions.
- The Ministry of External Affairs is engaging in diplomatic talks to protect India’s trade interests, emphasizing sovereign energy choices.
- Key export sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and IT services could face disruptions, impacting India’s $120 billion trade with the U.S.
- India is leveraging the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, signed in 2025, to diversify markets and reduce reliance on the U.S.
- The Reserve Bank of India is prepared to support affected industries through financial measures, as stated by Governor Sanjay Malhotra.
- The issue underscores India’s challenge in balancing energy security with international trade relations.
- India is accelerating renewable energy initiatives, like Tamil Nadu’s green hydrogen projects, to reduce oil import dependency.
4. DRDO’s Indigenous Air Defense System Advances
Subject: Defense
- The DRDO’s Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), tested successfully on August 23, 2025, is being hailed as a milestone in India’s defense self-reliance.
- The system, part of the Sudarshan Chakra project, integrates missiles, lasers, and drones to counter aircraft, missiles, and UAVs.
- It strengthens India’s border defenses, particularly along the Line of Control, amid rising regional threats.
- The IADWS features a centralized command system, enhancing real-time threat response capabilities.
- The project aligns with India’s collaboration with France’s Safran for advanced jet engines, boosting indigenous defense manufacturing.
- Tamil Nadu’s defense corridor is contributing components, supporting local industries and national security goals.
- The system’s success reduces reliance on foreign systems like Russia’s S-400, advancing India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
5. Tamil Nadu’s Economic Growth Bolstered by Green Energy Investments
Subject: Economy
- Tamil Nadu’s economy is seeing significant growth through investments like Sembcorp’s ₹36,000 crore green hydrogen project, aimed at exports to Japan.
- The state’s 20.12% surge in SGST collections for 2024-25 reflects robust economic activity, driven by manufacturing and renewable energy.
- Tamil Nadu’s Space Industrial Policy 2025 is attracting aerospace investments, positioning the state as a high-tech hub.
- The state’s focus on green energy aligns with India’s National Biofuel Policy, targeting 20% ethanol blending by 2030.
- Challenges include managing inflation, projected at 4.9% nationally, and addressing U.S. tariff threats impacting export-oriented industries.
- Tamil Nadu’s IT sector, contributing 15% to India’s IT exports, is diversifying to mitigate global trade risks.
- The state’s economic policies are strengthening its role in India’s ambition to become the third-largest economy by 2030.
