1. 56th GST Council Meeting Approves Key Reforms
Subject: Economy
- The 56th GST Council meeting, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, approved a two-tier GST regime effective from September 22, 2025.
- Rates reduced from 18% and 12% to 5% on manmade fibres, yarns, and sulphuric acid used in fertilizers to correct inverted duty structures.
- Expected to boost textile and agriculture sectors, benefiting Tamil Nadu’s textile hubs like Coimbatore and Tiruppur.
- Introduces simplified compliance for MSMEs and enhances export competitiveness amid global trade challenges.
- Aligns with India’s economic strategy to stimulate manufacturing and reduce production costs.
- Supports broader fiscal reforms, including better revenue sharing between Centre and states.
- Projected to add ₹50,000 crore to the economy through increased investments in key industries.
2. India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XIV Begins
Subject: Defence/International
- The 14th edition of Exercise MAITREE-XIV commenced in Umroi, Meghalaya, involving 120 Indian Army personnel from the Madras Regiment.
- Focuses on company-level counter-terrorist operations in semi-urban terrain under UN Charter Chapter VII.
- Aims to enhance interoperability and mutual understanding between Indian and Royal Thai Armies.
- Tamil Nadu’s troops participate, highlighting regional security cooperation in Southeast Asia.
- Builds on previous editions, strengthening bilateral defence ties amid Indo-Pacific challenges.
- Includes training on joint tactics, equipment handling, and humanitarian assistance scenarios.
- Reflects India’s proactive defence posture, aligning with QUAD and bilateral partnerships.
3. Tamil Nadu CM Stalin Unveils Periyar Portrait at Oxford
Subject: Polity
- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin unveiled a portrait of social reformer Periyar EV Ramasamy at the University of Oxford, marking the Self-Respect Movement’s centenary.
- Released two books chronicling the movement’s 100-year legacy on rationalism, social equality, and gender justice.
- Event places Periyar’s ideals in global dialogue with worldwide struggles for dignity and freedom.
- Influences Dravidian politics and Tamil Nadu’s welfare policies on inclusion and reservation.
- Stalin emphasized Periyar’s universal principles transcending borders, promoting self-respect and anti-caste reforms.
- Commemorates the 1925 launch, shaping Tamil Nadu’s governance model.
- Highlights Tamil Nadu’s cultural diplomacy and commitment to social justice globally.
4. Government Approves ₹1,500 Crore Scheme for Mineral Recycling
Subject: Economy/National Issues
- The Union Cabinet approved a ₹1,500 crore scheme to promote mineral recycling from e-waste and end-of-life vehicles over six years (2025-31).
- Targets creation of 270 kilotons annual recycling capacity, focusing on critical minerals for clean energy and EVs.
- Includes subsidies for large and small recyclers, with one-third allocation for startups.
- Benefits Tamil Nadu’s electronics and automotive sectors, enhancing supply chain resilience.
- Aligns with India’s self-reliance goals under Atmanirbhar Bharat and global sustainability commitments.
- Addresses e-waste surge, with India generating over 10 million tons annually.
- Supports transition to green economy, reducing import dependence on rare earths.
5. UPSC Establishes Centre of Excellence for Best Practices
Subject: Polity
- The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) announced a Centre of Excellence to adopt global best practices in civil services recruitment and training.
- Aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and merit-based selection processes.
- Involves collaboration with international bodies for knowledge exchange and capacity building.
- Impacts Tamil Nadu’s aspirants by improving exam standards and administrative reforms.
- Aligns with broader governance reforms under the National Education Policy.
- Focuses on digital integration and AI for fairer evaluation systems.
- Strengthens India’s civil services framework for Viksit Bharat by 2047.
