1. 16th Combined Commanders’ Conference Held in Kolkata
SUBJECT: NATIONAL
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 16th Combined Commanders’ Conference (CCC) in Kolkata, emphasizing jointness, Aatmanirbharta, and innovation in defence reforms.
• The conference reviewed operational preparedness amid emerging technologies and tactics, including lessons from Operation Sindoor.
• PM Modi instructed the Ministry of Defence to implement swift measures for greater integration among the three services to counter future threats.
• Discussions highlighted the need for enhanced joint training and resource sharing to achieve ‘Year of Reforms’ goals in 2025.
• The event underscores the government’s focus on theatre commands and integrated battle groups for modern warfare.
• Concepts: Article 53(2) – Empowers the President as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, with executive powers vested in the PM.
• Doctrine of Integrated Defence: Promotes unified command structures to optimize military efficiency and national security.
2. AI for Viksit Bharat Roadmap Launched
SUBJECT: NATIONAL
• The government unveiled the AI for Viksit Bharat Roadmap, aiming to harness artificial intelligence for 8%+ GDP growth by 2035 through productivity and innovation.
• Key initiatives include AI Kosh for data ecosystems, sectoral grids, and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) integration to position India as a global AI hub.
• The plan addresses a 30-35% growth gap by focusing on AI skilling via an AI Open University, national certifications, and workforce reskilling programs.
• It promotes ethical AI adoption across sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing to bridge skill gaps and foster inclusive development.
• The roadmap aligns with Viksit Bharat@2047, emphasizing trusted, anonymized data for secure innovation.
• Concepts: National AI Strategy – Builds on NITI Aayog’s 2018 framework to drive digital economy transformation.
• Challenges: Data privacy under DPDP Act, 2023, and equitable access to AI tools in rural areas.
3. US Chief Negotiator Visits India for Bilateral Trade Talks
SUBJECT: INTERNATIONAL
• US Chief Negotiator Brendan Lynch arrived in New Delhi for day-long talks with India’s Rajesh Agrawal on the proposed India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).
• The sixth round of negotiations focuses on resolving tariff issues, including the 50% US penalty on Indian exports due to Russian oil purchases.
• Discussions aim for a win-win deal, covering sectors like IT, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture, amid Trump’s upcoming call with PM Modi.
• India seeks exemptions from US tariffs, while the US pushes for market access in dairy and autos; a deal could boost bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.
• The talks follow five prior rounds and align with broader Indo-Pacific economic partnerships.
• Concepts: WTO Dispute Settlement – Potential recourse for tariff disputes under GATT Article XXI.
• Geopolitical Angle: Strengthens QUAD ties amid US-China tensions and India’s energy diversification.
4. Fitch Upgrades India’s FY26 GDP Forecast to 6.9%
SUBJECT: ECONOMY
• Fitch Ratings revised India’s GDP growth projection for FY26 to 6.9% from 6.5%, driven by strong domestic demand and real income growth.
• The upgrade reflects robust Q2 2025 performance, with services surging 9.3%, supported by private and public spending.
• Inflation is expected to ease to 3.2% by end-2025 due to above-average monsoons and high food stockpiles, aiding RBI’s rate cuts.
• Growth is projected to moderate to 6.3% in FY27 and 6.2% in FY28 as the economy operates above potential.
• GST reforms effective September 22, 2025, are anticipated to boost consumer spending and investment.
• Concepts: Fiscal Deficit Target – Aligns with FRBM Act goals of 4.5% of GDP by FY26 for sustainable growth.
• Risks: US tariffs could shave 0.5-1% off growth, offset partially by domestic tax cuts.
5. Defence Procurement Manual 2025 Approved
SUBJECT: DEFENCE
• Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh approved the Defence Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025 to streamline revenue procurement and adapt to modern warfare needs.
• The manual simplifies processes, enables faster acquisitions, and promotes indigenization for the Armed Forces.
• It rationalizes procedures for equipment, spares, and maintenance, reducing delays in operational readiness.
• Key focus on Aatmanirbharta through preferential sourcing from domestic industry and MSMEs.
• The DPM aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to cut import dependence by 30% in defence by 2027.
• Concepts: DPP 2020 – Predecessor framework emphasizing strategic partnerships and buy-indian categories.
• Implications: Enhances jointness post-CCC, supporting theatre commands and tech integration like AI in warfare.
