1. India Intensifies Global Diplomacy After Operation Sindoor
Subject: International
- India has launched a diplomatic campaign to counter Pakistan’s narrative post-Operation Sindoor, framing its actions as counterterrorism measures.
- The Ministry of External Affairs held talks with the U.S., EU, and Japan to reinforce India’s commitment to regional stability.
- India rejected a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) statement in Qingdao for overlooking cross-border terrorism concerns.
- High-level engagements with ASEAN nations aim to bolster economic and security ties against China’s regional influence.
- India’s Defence Minister urged IAEA oversight of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal to strengthen global security.
- Concepts: Article 51 of the Indian Constitution (promoting international peace); Soft power diplomacy.
- Tamil Nadu’s think tanks emphasized countering the China-Pakistan axis in multilateral forums.
2. RBI Signals Third Repo Rate Cut to Stimulate Economy
Subject: Economy
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is poised to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points on July 2, 2025, marking its third consecutive reduction.
- The cut aims to boost investment in infrastructure and MSMEs amid stable inflation and global uncertainties.
- India saw a 14% rise in FDI inflows ($81.04 billion) in FY 2024–25, though Tamil Nadu’s share dropped to 7%.
- Tamil Nadu’s government faces pressure to reform policies to attract more foreign investment.
- Economists warn of challenges from U.S. trade policies under Trump 2.0 impacting India’s exports.
- Concepts: Monetary policy; Repo rate as a tool for economic growth and liquidity management.
3. Tamil Nadu Governor’s Assembly Walkout Sparks Row
Subject: Polity
- Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi exited the Legislative Assembly after the national anthem was allegedly omitted, igniting a political controversy.
- Chief Minister M.K. Stalin accused the Governor of undermining state autonomy under Article 163.
- Opposition parties, including AIADMK, called for a resolution to standardize assembly protocols.
- The issue may escalate to the Supreme Court to clarify the Governor’s role in state legislatures.
- Tensions reflect ongoing DMK-BJP friction, intensified by a recent BJP-backed Hindu Munnani event.
- Concepts: Federalism; Governor’s discretionary powers under Article 163; Constitutional propriety.
4. India Enhances Defence with Nag Missile System Deal
Subject: Defence
- The Ministry of Defence approved a ₹2,500 crore deal for the Nag Missile System (NAMIS) and 5,000 light vehicles to bolster anti-tank capabilities.
- NAMIS, a third-generation fire-and-forget missile developed by DRDO in Tamil Nadu, strengthens border defence.
- The procurement supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
- Congress criticized alleged operational constraints during Operation Sindoor, raising concerns over IAF losses.
- Tamil Nadu’s defence ecosystem, including Chennai-based firms, plays a key role in indigenous production.
- Concepts: Defence indigenization; Strategic autonomy in national security.
5. Kerala High Court Probes CBFC Over Film Title Dispute
Subject: Polity
- The Kerala High Court questioned the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on objections to the title Janaki Vs State of Kerala.
- The court ordered the CBFC to submit its revising committee’s decision by July 5, 2025, citing freedom of expression concerns.
- Tamil Nadu’s film industry expressed solidarity, highlighting delays in CBFC certifications for regional cinema.
- The case underscores tensions between creative freedom and regulatory oversight under Article 19(1)(a).
- Legal experts predict the ruling could influence future film title disputes across India.
- Concepts: Freedom of speech and expression; CBFC’s regulatory role in film certification.
