1. Tamil Nadu Unveils Ambitious Space Industrial Policy
Subject: Economy
- Tamil Nadu launched its Space Industrial Policy in April 2025, with new developments announced on July 15, 2025, aiming to attract ₹10,000 crore in investments over the next five years.
- The policy focuses on fostering innovation in satellite manufacturing, launch vehicles, and space research.
- It targets creating 10,000 jobs, particularly in high-tech sectors, boosting Tamil Nadu’s economic growth.
- Chennai and Coimbatore are designated as key hubs for space technology development.
- The state government has partnered with ISRO to establish a Space Technology Incubation Centre.
- Incentives include tax breaks and subsidies for startups and MSMEs in the space sector.
- Concept: Industrial Policy: A government framework to promote specific sectors through incentives and infrastructure development.
2. India Strengthens Defence Ties with Sri Lanka
Subject: Defence
- On July 15, 2025, India announced enhanced defence cooperation with Sri Lanka, focusing on maritime security and joint exercises.
- The agreement includes the supply of advanced radar systems to strengthen Sri Lanka’s coastal defence.
- India’s Defence Ministry emphasized interoperability through joint naval exercises in the Indian Ocean.
- The move aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative.
- A new training program for Sri Lankan naval officers was launched at the Indian Naval Academy.
- Concept: Maritime Security: Protecting territorial waters and ensuring safe trade routes through naval cooperation.
3. Union Cabinet Approves Employment Linked Incentive Scheme Expansion
Subject: Economy
- On July 15, 2025, the Union Cabinet expanded the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, allocating ₹1.2 lakh crore to create 6 crore jobs by 2028.
- The scheme offers wage subsidies of up to ₹15,000 for first-time employees in formal sectors.
- Employers registered with EPFO are eligible for incentives if they create a minimum number of new jobs.
- Tamil Nadu’s textile and IT sectors are expected to benefit significantly, with Virudhunagar’s PM MITRA Park as a key focus.
- The scheme promotes financial literacy by locking a portion of incentives in savings instruments.
- Concept: Employment Generation: Government initiatives to boost formal job creation through financial incentives.
4. Tamil Nadu’s TB Death-Free Initiative Gains National Attention
Subject: National Issues
- Tamil Nadu’s TN-KET (Kasanoi Erappila Thittam) program, highlighted on July 15, 2025, has reduced TB-related deaths by 30% since 2022.
- The initiative uses a paper-based triage tool to identify severe TB cases for fast-track care.
- A dedicated TB web app calculates mortality risk, enabling timely interventions.
- The Union Health Ministry is considering scaling TN-KET nationwide as a model for public health.
- The program addresses health disparities, particularly in rural Tamil Nadu, improving access to care.
- Concept: Public Health Innovation: Leveraging technology and simplified tools to address critical health challenges.
5. DRDO Tests Advanced Agni Missile Variant
Subject: Defence
- On July 15, 2025, DRDO successfully test-fired a new Agni missile variant with a 7.5-tonne conventional warhead for precise deep strikes.
- The missile, a modified Agni-V, supports India’s ‘No First Use’ nuclear policy with non-nuclear capabilities.
- It targets a range of 2,000–2,500 km, suitable for tactical operations against enemy infrastructure.
- The test enhances India’s deterrence strategy against regional threats.
- Tamil Nadu’s defence manufacturing units, particularly in Chennai, contributed to the missile’s development.
- Concept: Strategic Deterrence: Building military capabilities to prevent aggression without escalating to nuclear conflict.
