1. Political Developments: Vice-President’s Abrupt Resignation
Syllabus: GS2/Polity & Governance Context India is currently abuzz with the abrupt resignation of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, effective July 23, 2025. While citing “health grounds,” the swift acceptance by the President and Prime Minister’s cryptic well-wishes have fueled speculation about underlying political tensions.
About The resignation has been a “bolt from the blue,” prompting widespread discussion across political circles. Mr. Dhankhar’s tenure as Vice-President was often criticized by the Opposition for a perceived pro-government stance in Rajya Sabha proceedings, and he was the first Vice-President to face an impeachment motion. Earlier, during his governorship of West Bengal, he was also accused of transgressing constitutional boundaries. His frequent public criticism of the Supreme Court’s “basic structures” judgment and assertions about “Parliamentary supremacy” were seen as increasingly confrontational.
Significance
- Political Instability Concerns: The sudden departure has provided ammunition to opposition leaders, who view the move as politically motivated, suggesting deeper issues at play beyond stated health reasons.
- Constitutional Debate: The incident reignites debates on the balance of power between different organs of governance and the role of constitutional office-holders.
- Succession and Future Implications: The nation now awaits the appointment of Mr. Dhankhar’s successor, and the ramifications of this hurried exit are expected to resonate in Indian politics for some time.
Source: The Hindu, July 23, 2025
2. Economic Landscape: India’s Sustained Growth and Key Reforms
Syllabus: GS3/Indian Economy Context India continues to demonstrate robust economic performance, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing major economy globally. This growth is underpinned by significant policy reforms and strategic initiatives, particularly in areas like GST, trade, and energy.
Key Highlights
- Strong GDP Growth: India’s real GDP is estimated to have grown by 6.5% in FY 2024-25, with projections for a similar rate in FY 2025-26. This momentum is driven by strong domestic demand, a dynamic demographic profile, and sustained economic reforms.
- Record Exports: Total exports reached a record US$ 825 billion in FY 2024-25, a 76% increase over the last decade. Engineering goods, electronics, and pharmaceuticals have been key drivers, with services exports more than doubling.
- GST Milestones: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) will complete eight years on July 1, 2025, having replaced multiple indirect taxes with a unified system. Significant improvements include a higher exemption limit for MSMEs, quarterly return filing for small taxpayers, and the widespread use of digital platforms for compliance. A survey found 85% industry approval for GST, highlighting its positive impact.
- Upstream Energy Strategy: India is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to strengthen upstream exploration and production (E&P), energy resilience, and international cooperation. The Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) and amendments to the ORD Act have opened up vast “No-Go” areas for exploration, unlocking significant resource potential. Revised PNG Rules and MRSC aim to enhance policy clarity and boost investor confidence.
- Controlled Inflation: Retail inflation significantly eased to 4.6% in FY 2024-25, the lowest since 2018-19, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) at 2.82% in May 2025. Food inflation also cooled to 0.99%.
- Increased FDI Inflows: Cumulative FDI inflows reached US$ 1.05 trillion, with a record 27% increase in equity inflows in the first nine months of FY25.
Significance
- Global Economic Driver: India remains a key driver of global growth amidst uncertain global economic conditions.
- Ease of Doing Business: Reforms in GST, energy, and digital transactions contribute significantly to improving the ease of doing business and attracting investment.
- Inclusive Growth: Initiatives supporting MSMEs and promoting economic integration through GST are vital for inclusive growth.
Source: PIB (various press releases June-July 2025)
3. Social Development: Empowering Rural India through Digitalization and Cooperatives ‘
Syllabus: GS2/Social Justice Context The government continues to prioritize social development through digital empowerment and the strengthening of the cooperative movement, aiming for inclusive growth and self-reliance in rural India.
Key Initiatives
- Common Services Centres (CSC) – 16 Years of Digital Empowerment: On July 16, 2025, CSCs will celebrate their 16th Establishment Day. These centers, a cornerstone of the Digital India program, have revolutionized citizen-centric service delivery in rural areas, offering a wide range of services from Aadhaar enrollment to telemedicine and banking. The new phase will integrate AI-based services and cloud solutions, scaling CSCs as engines of rural innovation and “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
- International Year of Cooperatives 2025: The United Nations declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives, with the theme “Cooperatives Build a Better World.” India is actively participating, with a focus on empowering cooperatives, particularly Multipurpose PACS/Dairy/Fisheries Cooperative Societies, to enhance rural incomes and strengthen local economies. As of March 31, 2025, 18,183 new such cooperatives have been registered. The “White Revolution 2.0” aims to boost milk procurement by 50% over five years.
- PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY): Approved in July 2025, this landmark initiative aims to transform India’s agricultural landscape in 100 agri-districts. With an outlay of Rs. 24,000 crores, it focuses on saturation-based convergence of 36 Central schemes, targeting districts with low productivity and cropping intensity.
- Lakhpati Didi Scheme: This scheme, aligned with DAY-NRLM, trains women volunteers as “Bima Sakhi” to promote insurance in rural areas, offering stipends and incentives for insuring individuals.
Significance
- Last-Mile Connectivity: CSCs bridge the digital divide and ensure access to essential services for marginalized communities.
- Economic Empowerment: Cooperatives and agricultural schemes empower farmers and rural populations, fostering economic self-reliance.
- Inclusive Growth: These initiatives contribute to the broader vision of “Viksit Bharat @2047” by promoting social inclusion and sustainable development.
Source: PIB
4. Environment & Sustainability: Stringent Regulations and Climate Commitments
Syllabus: GS3/Environment & Ecology Context India is pushing forward with a wave of legislative reforms to strengthen environmental oversight, promote sustainable practices, and align with global climate commitments.
Key Developments
- Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2025: Notified on April 4, 2025, these rules supersede the 2016 regulations and focus on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). They aim to tackle the growing issue of construction and demolition waste by making producers responsible for environmentally sound disposal and management. An online portal will be established for registration and monitoring.
- Draft Greenhouse Gases Emission Intensity Target Rules, 2025: Released to operationalize the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), 2023, these draft rules set baseline emissions for 2023-24 and define gradual reduction targets for 2025-26 and 2026-27. This signifies a move towards market-based mechanisms for controlling GHG emissions and aligns with India’s commitment to reduce its GDP’s emission intensity by 45% by 2030 (relative to 2005 levels).
- Environment (Protection) Second Amendment Rules, 2025: These rules introduce stringent standards for effluent discharges, fugitive emissions, and wastewater generation, particularly for industries like the caustic soda sector. Industries are given a two-year window for compliance, pushing for technological upgradation and operational efficiency.
- Judicial Intervention: The Supreme Court has actively intervened, ordering a complete cessation of developmental activities in certain areas to protect the environment and emphasizing the judiciary’s commitment to environmental preservation. The Madras High Court has also banned 28 plastic items in Western Ghats, sanctuaries, and tiger reserves.
Significance
- Robust Regulatory Framework: These reforms indicate a paradigm shift towards stringent environmental governance and increased accountability for project developers and industries.
- Climate Action: The introduction of GHG emission intensity targets and the operationalization of CCTS are crucial steps towards achieving India’s climate goals under the Paris Agreement.
- Sustainable Development: The focus on waste management and pollution control is essential for fostering sustainable development and mitigating ecological damage.
5. Science & Technology: Advancing Connectivity and Research
Syllabus: GS3/Science & Technology Context India is making significant strides in cutting-edge technologies like 6G and reforming its research ecosystem to foster innovation and enhance its global scientific standing.
Key Developments
- Bharat 6G Vision: India is at the forefront of 6G technology development, aiming for data transmission rates significantly surpassing 5G. The “Bharat 6G Vision” seeks to create a secure and intelligent 6G network, enhancing connectivity for improved quality of life. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has recognized India’s 6G Vision Framework, highlighting its contribution to global telecom standards. India has received over 127 patents related to 6G and has an agreement with the US for collaborative research in this field.
- Policy Reforms for Ease of Research: The government has announced major policy shifts to streamline the research environment in India, aiming to enhance “Ease of Innovation” and “Ease of Doing Research.” These reforms are expected to provide much-needed relief to innovators, researchers, scholars, scientists, and institutions across the country.
- Advanced Cyber Skill Centre: Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the Advanced Cyber Skill Centre, established by the Data Security Council of India (DSCI) at the CII Model Career Centre in Mumbai. This initiative aims to build a skilled workforce in cybersecurity.
Significance
- Technological Leadership: India’s proactive approach to 6G development positions it as a key player in future communication technologies.
- Research & Innovation Ecosystem: Policy reforms for ease of research are crucial for fostering a vibrant research and innovation ecosystem, which is vital for long-term economic growth and societal progress.
- Cybersecurity Preparedness: The establishment of advanced cyber skill centers underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its cybersecurity capabilities.
6. International Relations: India’s Diplomatic Outreach to UK and Maldives Syllabus: GS2/International Relations Context Prime Minister Narendra Modi is undertaking a brief but significant visit to the United Kingdom and Maldives on July 23, 2025. This diplomatic outreach comes amidst ongoing discussions on critical bilateral issues, including the presence of Khalistani extremists in the UK and the extradition of fugitives.
Key Highlights
- PM Modi’s UK Visit: The visit to the UK is at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has confirmed that India has repeatedly flagged the issue of Khalistani extremist groups to its UK partners, emphasizing that it impacts “social cohesion and social order” in both countries. Discussions on the extradition of fugitives wanted by Indian law enforcement agencies are also underway, with India continuing to press for their rendition. This visit is an opportunity to review the “entire gamut of the bilateral relationship” which was upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2021.
- State Visit to Maldives: Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to the Maldives is at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. This visit holds particular significance for India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and aims to strengthen bilateral ties, which have seen some diplomatic tensions recently.
Significance
- Addressing Transnational Threats: India’s persistent efforts to address the issue of Khalistani extremism and fugitive extradition with the UK underscore its commitment to national security and judicial integrity.
- Strengthening Strategic Partnerships: The visits aim to reinforce existing comprehensive strategic partnerships and address emerging challenges, showcasing India’s proactive diplomacy.
- Regional Stability: The engagement with Maldives is crucial for maintaining stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, a key area of India’s strategic interest.
Source: The Times of India, July 23, 2025
7. Urban Development: World Bank Report on Resilient Indian Cities
Syllabus: GS3/Indian Economy, GS1/Urbanisation Context A new World Bank report, “Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India,” released on July 22, 2025, highlights India’s critical opportunity to drive resilient urban development. The report underscores the immense potential of Indian cities as economic growth centers while addressing the escalating challenges posed by climate change.
Key Findings
- Economic Hubs: Indian cities are projected to generate 70% of new jobs by 2030, emphasizing their crucial role in national economic growth.
- Housing Demand: With India’s urban population expected to almost double by 2050 to 951 million, over 144 million new homes will be needed by 2070.
- Climate Vulnerabilities: Indian cities face severe impacts from intense heat waves and urban heat island effects, leading to temperature rises of 3-4 degrees Celsius. Rapid growth of built-up areas also reduces stormwater absorption capacity, increasing flood vulnerability.
- Cost of Inaction: The report estimates that timely adaptation measures can avert billions of dollars in annual losses from future weather-related shocks, including $5 billion from pluvial floods by 2030 and $30 billion by 2070.
- Investment Needs: Over $2.4 trillion will be needed by 2050 for new, resilient, and low-carbon urban infrastructure and services, with the private sector playing a critical role.
- Success Stories: The report cites examples like Ahmedabad’s Heat Action Plan, Kolkata’s flood forecasting system, and Indore’s modern solid waste management system as models for building urban resilience.
Significance
- Sustainable Urbanization: The report provides a roadmap for India to build sustainable and resilient cities, crucial for accommodating rapid urbanization while mitigating climate risks.
- Economic Safeguarding: Investments in resilient infrastructure will not only protect lives and properties but also attract new businesses and jobs, driving innovation.
- Policy Imperative: The findings serve as a strong impetus for policymakers to prioritize green and resilient urban development in housing, transport, and municipal services.
Source: World Bank Press Release, July 22, 2025
8. Defense & Security: Indigenous Push in Capital Acquisitions
Syllabus: GS3/Security & Defense Context The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, on July 3, 2025, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 10 capital acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 1.05 lakh crore. This significant move further emphasizes India’s commitment to indigenous sourcing under the ‘Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured)’ category.
Key Procurements
- Enhanced Operational Preparedness: AoNs were accorded for crucial defense equipment including Armoured Recovery Vehicles, Electronic Warfare Systems, an Integrated Common Inventory Management System for the Tri-Services, and Surface-to-Air Missiles. These are aimed at providing higher mobility, effective air defense, and better supply chain management, thereby augmenting the operational preparedness of the Armed Forces.
- Naval Security: Procurements also include Moored Mines, Mine Counter Measure Vessels, Super Rapid Gun Mount, and Submersible Autonomous Vessels to mitigate potential risks to Naval and Merchant Vessels.
- Focus on ‘Make in India’: All these procurements will be carried out through indigenous sourcing from Indian companies, providing a significant impetus to domestic design and development in the defense sector. This follows earlier approvals in June 2025 for a Rs 30,000 crore proposal for indigenous Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QR-SAM) systems and a Rs 62,000 crore deal in March 2025 for 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) ‘Prachand’ from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.
Significance
- Self-Reliance in Defense: The continuous push for indigenous defense procurements aligns with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and bolstering India’s domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.
- Modernization of Armed Forces: These acquisitions are critical for modernizing the Indian Armed Forces, ensuring they are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to meet evolving security challenges.
- Boost to Domestic Industry: Such large-scale indigenous orders provide a significant boost to the Indian defense industry, fostering job creation, technological advancements, and economic growth.
Source: PIB,
9. Agricultural Sector: PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana Launched
Syllabus: GS3/Agriculture Context In a major boost to the agricultural sector, the Union Cabinet on July 16, 2025, approved the “PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana,” with an annual outlay of Rs 24,000 crore for six years, starting from 2025-26. This scheme, a key initiative from the latest Budget, aims to transform India’s agricultural landscape in 100 under-performing districts.
About
- Targeted Intervention: The scheme focuses on 100 agri-districts identified based on three key indicators: low productivity, low cropping intensity, and less credit disbursement. A minimum of one district will be selected from each state/UT.
- Comprehensive Approach: It seeks to enhance productivity, increase the adoption of crop diversification and sustainable agricultural practices, augment post-harvest storage infrastructure at the panchayat and block levels, improve irrigation facilities, and facilitate the availability of long- and short-term credit.
- Convergence and Monitoring: The initiative will be implemented through the convergence of 36 existing Central schemes across 11 departments, other state schemes, and local partnerships with the private sector. Progress will be monitored monthly on 117 key performance indicators through a dedicated dashboard.
- Broader Agricultural Reforms: The 2025 Agriculture Budget also includes targeted missions for increasing self-sufficiency in pulses and cotton production, alongside continued support for schemes like Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana.
Significance
- Farmer Empowerment: The scheme aims to make farming profitable and farmers self-reliant, contributing to the broader goal of doubling farmers’ income.
- Food Security: By enhancing productivity and promoting crop diversification, the initiative strengthens India’s food security and reduces reliance on imports for specific commodities.
- Sustainable Agriculture: The focus on sustainable practices, water conservation, and soil health is crucial for long-term agricultural resilience in the face of climate change.
10. Health Sector: Comprehensive Reforms in Budget 2025
Syllabus: GS2/Health Context The Union Budget 2025 has outlined a transformative commitment to public health, with a strategic focus on expanding medical infrastructure, improving accessibility, and strengthening healthcare affordability across the nation.
Key Initiatives
- Increased Funding: The National Health Mission (NHM) sees a significant allocation of Rs 37,226.37 crore (+15.3%), strengthening primary healthcare, maternal and child health, and rural health services. Human Resources for Health & Medical Education receives a massive boost of Rs 1,675 crore (+661.4%), aiming to add 10,000 new medical seats in FY2025-26 and 75,000 over five years to improve the doctor-patient ratio.
- Decentralized Cancer Care: A groundbreaking move is the establishment of 200 new day-care cancer centers in district hospitals, starting from FY 2025-26. This aims to decentralize cancer treatment, making it accessible and affordable for millions.
- Affordable Medicines: To reduce the financial burden on patients, 36 life-saving medicines for cancer, rare diseases, and chronic illnesses have been exempted from basic customs duty. Additionally, six more drugs are subject to a reduced 5% customs duty, and medicines under Pharmaceutical Assistance Programmes (PAPs) are fully exempted.
- Digital Health and Elderly Care: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) continues to expand, with over 78 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHAs) created as of June 2025. The Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme has enrolled over 58 lakh senior citizens, ensuring easy access to healthcare for those aged 70+.
- Pandemic Preparedness: The Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), with an outlay of Rs 64,180 crore (2021-2026), continues to strengthen health service delivery across all levels and build a robust system for future pandemics.
Significance
- Universal Health Coverage: The reforms are a significant step towards achieving universal access to equitable, affordable, and quality healthcare services for all citizens.
- Addressing Health Burden: Decentralized cancer care and affordable medicines directly address two major health burdens in India, improving patient outcomes and reducing out-of-pocket expenditure.
- Strengthening Health Infrastructure: Increased investment in medical education and infrastructure is crucial for building a resilient and future-ready healthcare system.
