1. Union Government Launches New AI-Based Package Under Digital India Initiative
Subject: Economy and Technology
- The Union Cabinet approved a ₹10,000 crore AI-based package under the Digital India Initiative to enhance the digital economy by 2030.
- The package includes establishing AI training centers in key Tamil Nadu cities like Chennai and Coimbatore.
- It aims to train 2 crore youth in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity, with a focus on rural empowerment.
- Tamil Nadu’s Arasu e-Sevai centers will integrate AI tools to streamline public service delivery.
- The initiative aligns with the National AI Strategy, aiming to position India as a global AI hub.
- Concerns raised about ethical AI use, with calls for robust regulatory frameworks.
- Expected to create 1 crore jobs, boosting Tamil Nadu’s IT sector.
2. India Strengthens Indo-Pacific Presence at Quad Summit 2025
Subject: International and Defence
- India participated in the Quad Summit 2025 in Tokyo, alongside the US, Japan, and Australia, focusing on Indo-Pacific security.
- The Indian Navy’s INS Sahyadri, built in Chennai, was showcased during maritime exercises.
- Agreements signed to enhance maritime domain awareness and counter China’s growing influence in the region.
- Tamil Nadu’s defence manufacturing corridor in Coimbatore will support Quad’s indigenous defence tech initiatives.
- Discussions included climate resilience and critical technology supply chains.
- India emphasized a rules-based international order, rejecting unilateral actions in the South China Sea.
- The summit reinforced India’s strategic autonomy in global geopolitics.
3. India Rejects SCO Joint Statement Over Terrorism Concerns
Subject: International and Defence
- India declined to endorse the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) joint statement in Qingdao, China, due to inadequate mention of terrorism.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025) as a key concern, demanding stronger anti-terrorism measures.
- India launched Operation Sindoor in May 2025, targeting terror bases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
- Tamil Nadu’s INS Adyar provided logistical support for coastal security drills post-SCO.
- The move reflects India’s assertive stance against cross-border terrorism.
- Calls for RIC (Russia-India-China) dialogue to address regional security.
- Experts warn of escalating tensions impacting India’s trade routes.
4. India Boosts Defence Modernization with ₹1.2 Lakh Crore Procurement
Subject: Defence
- The Defence Acquisition Council approved ₹1.2 lakh crore for indigenous defence procurement, including drones and missile systems.
- Tamil Nadu’s defence corridor in Hosur will manufacture components for Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QR-SAM).
- The deal includes 100% indigenous sourcing, boosting firms like Bharat Dynamics.
- INS Nilgiri, a Tamil Nadu-named stealth frigate, was inducted into the Navy in Chennai.
- The initiative aims to reduce import dependency and enhance self-reliance.
- Challenges include delays in technology transfer and skill gaps in defence manufacturing.
- The move strengthens India’s readiness amid border tensions with China.
5. Tamil Nadu Launches ₹1,500 Crore Green Hydrogen Project
Subject: Economy and Environment
- Tamil Nadu unveiled a ₹1,500 crore green hydrogen project in Thoothukudi to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.
- The project, supported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, aims to produce 100 MW of green hydrogen.
- It will create 10,000 jobs, focusing on coastal districts like Nagapattinam.
- The state’s Space Industrial Policy (April 2025) will integrate green tech innovation.
- Challenges include high production costs and the need for advanced storage solutions.
- The project aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.
