Tamil Nadu joins nation in hailing ‘Operation Sindoor'
CHENNAI: Leaders from across Tamil Nadu's political landscape on Wednesday welcomed the Indian Armed Forces' precision strikes on terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) carried out under Operation Sindoor following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Chief Minister M K Stalin was among the first to react, affirming Tamil Nadu's support for the armed forces. In his message, he said, 'Tamil Nadu stands with the Indian Army against terrorism. With our Army, for our nation. Tamil Nadu stands resolute.'
Governor R N Ravi took to X to express his support for the military action, stating, 'Bharat Mata Ki Jay... #OperationSindoor... Just the beginning.'
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami said, 'I commend the Armed Forces for their precise execution of Operation Sindoor, targeting terror camps in Pakistan and PoK.'
Diplomatic engagement must to ensure lasting peace: VCK
'This decisive action underscores our nation's unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and safeguarding our citizens,' Palaniswami added
BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran remarked, 'Though there are enough reasons to wage a full-fledged war against Pakistan, which remains an asylum for terrorists, India has chosen precision attacks on terrorist outfits seeking justice for the families affected by the Pahalgam attack rather than taking revenge.' He added, 'The Indian Army has shown the world its cultural strength by targeting only the terrorists without harming the general public.'
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- Indian Express
UPSC Key: Revised Base Year, Copper and Repo Rate Reduction
Important topics and their relevance in UPSC CSE exam for June 9, 2025. If you missed the June 8, 2025 UPSC CSE exam key from the Indian Express, read it here FRONT PAGE Eye on strong export advantage, India not keen to dent Turkey trade ties with curbs Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Main Examination: General Studies II: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests. What's the ongoing story: Amid moves to curb the role of Turkish companies in critical infrastructure, citing national security grounds, there is palpably less appetite within the Government to extend this approach to the bilateral trade basket despite calls from industry groups to ban the import of items such as apples and marbles. Key Points to Ponder: • Which sectors constitutes a major part of India's exports to Turkey? • India enjoys a trade surplus with Turkey primarily due to what? • Discuss the economic rationale behind India's cautious approach in maintaining trade ties with Turkey despite political divergences. • Know the composition of India–Turkey bilateral trade and highlight areas of export advantage for India. • How can trade diplomacy help decouple political disagreements from economic engagement? • What are the implications of imposing trade curbs on strategic markets like Turkey, particularly for India's export-driven sectors? Key Takeaways: • 'We have received a number of representations to ban imports from Turkey. Apple-growers from Himachal Pradesh have sought a ban on apple imports from Turkey. But India runs a trade surplus with Turkey and we have to keep in mind our exporters' interests too. It (a trade ban) could be a strong geopolitical message, but it's about how far you want to take it,' a Government official told The Indian Express. • The trade surplus assumes significance as India's outbound shipments to Turkey largely consist of industrial exports, such as engineering goods, electronics, and organic and inorganic chemicals, which have increased over the past five years. • In contrast, Turkey's exports to India are largely limited to fruits, nuts, gold and marble. Turkey had also stepped up petroleum product imports from India following the Ukraine war but this category has seen a significant decline in FY25. • Last month, apple-growers from Himachal met Union Commerce Ministry officials to seek a ban on apple imports, stating that subsidised apples from Turkey are crippling the domestic horticulture economy and pushing orchardists in the state into financial distress. • According to them, apples are not just a commercial crop but the economic backbone of hill states. • Marble processors from Udaipur also wrote to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) last month seeking import curbs on marble from Turkey, citing its support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor — India imports the majority of its marble from Turkey. Do You Know: • Official trade data showed that exports to Turkey in FY25 totalled $5.72 billion, largely driven by engineering exports, which comprise over 50 per cent at $3 billion. Notably, the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector dominated the segment, contributing nearly 35-40 per cent. • Turkey's support for Pakistan, including supplies of drones, during Op Sindoor had led to India cancelling the security clearance for Turkish aviation firm Celebi — and tourism numbers to Turkey showing a sharp dip. But India holds the edge in bilateral trade: exports in FY25 totalled $5.72 bn, driven by engineering exports, while imports stood at $2.99 bn, mainly of fruits and nuts. • Imports from Turkey during the last financial year stood at $2.99 billion — imports in the fruits and nuts category were $107.12 million, up nearly 10 per cent from $96.82 million the previous financial year. India also imported gold worth $270.83 million from Turkey in FY25 — 159.02 per cent higher than the $104.56 million worth of gold imports in FY24. • Last month, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) had revoked the security clearance of the Indian arm of Turkey-headquartered airport ground-handling major Celebi Aviation Holding on grounds related to 'national security'. • The Indian Express reported last month that Indian tourists are increasingly cancelling holidays to Turkey and Azerbaijan, which had also supported Pakistan, as reflected in visa applications. While Turkey registered 3 lakh Indian tourists in 2024, Azerbaijan saw 2.44 lakh. • Industry representatives expect that a chunk of these numbers will now be diverted to Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍Himachal farmers demand ban on apple imports from Turkey, meet Minister Piyush Goyal 2034 earliest for joint polls under existing Bill: Panel chief Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. Mains Examination: General Studies II: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein What's the ongoing story: P P Chaudhary, BJP MP and chairman of the Joint Committee of Parliament on Bills relating to 'One Nation, One Election', has told The Indian Express that the earliest that simultaneous elections can be held under the existing Bills is 2034, and the committee may go beyond the draft law to suggest ways to keep polls aligned, including recommending a provision for a constructive or positive vote of no-confidence. Key Points to Ponder: • What is 'one nation, one election'? • What are the arguments around holding simultaneous elections? • But when elections were first held in independent India, where they not simultaneous to begin with? • Has the idea of simultaneous polls been explored before? • When and how did the idea of simultaneous Lok Sabha, Assembly and local body polls come up? • How exactly will holding Lok Sabha and Assembly polls together help? • What have political parties said? What is the system in other countries? • What will happen if India does decide on simultaneous elections? Key Takeaways: • In an interview with The Indian Express, Chaudhary, responding to a question on how long it would take the committee to finalise its recommendations, said members had unanimously decided to visit all states and Union Territories – a process that would take about two to two-and-a-half years. So far, the committee has visited two states: Uttarakhand and Maharashtra. • The Bills were introduced in Lok Sabha in December last year and were almost immediately referred to the Chaudhary-led committee which has been holding consultations with stakeholders for feedback. • Although the draft legislation provides for a one-time measure to bring Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in sync, Chaudhary felt that the committee could make additional recommendations to address how synchronisation should be maintained. • One such suggestion could be a constructive vote of no-confidence which, as is the case in Germany, requires members of a legislature who bring a no-confidence motion against a government to have the numbers to form the government instead. • Asked when the first simultaneous elections would be held, he said: 'The committee will deliberate; Parliament will decide. We can't say when, but the Bill says the first session of Parliament, if it happens with the appointed date, then it would be from 2034.' • The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment Bill), 2024 provide for simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and Assemblies. Do You Know: • The Bills had been introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on December 17, 2024 and were based on the recommendations of the High-Level Committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind. • When it comes to federalism, he said the Supreme Court, in the SR Bommai case in 1994, had reinforced that federalism is a basic feature and that the Bills before the committee do not infringe upon this as the powers of the Union and states remain the same. • The 22nd Law Commission, headed by former Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, is set to recommend the addition of a new chapter on simultaneous polls in the Constitution. Currently, Part XV of the Constitution deals with elections. It prescribes the role of the Election Commission and for elections to be based on adult suffrage among other aspects. The Commission is likely to recommend insertion of a new chapter, Part XVA, that would make provisions for simultaneous polls. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍One Nation, One Election: Highlights of the Kovind panel's recommendations THE EDITORIAL PAGE Tailoring a sector Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Economic and Social Development Mains Examination: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilisation of resources, growth, development and employment. What's the ongoing story: Ashok Gulati and Ayushi Gupta writes: India has a deep-rooted tradition in textiles and apparel (T&A). The sector employs 45 million people and contributes 2.3 per cent to overall GDP. But its share in global trade remains low at 4.2 per cent, a mere $37.8 billion out of $897.8 billion. Key Points to Ponder: • The Textile industry in India-Know in detail • What are the key challenges faced by Textile industry in India? • What Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) said about India's Garment Export Sector? • What is the current situation of the Textile Sector in India? • Despite being a global leader in fibre production, India's textile industry lags behind in growth and exports—Discuss • What steps has the government implemented for the textile sector as a whole? • Discuss the role of government policies such as PLI, SITP, and ATUFS in revitalizing the Textile sector. • How does India's textile sector compare with that of China and Bangladesh in terms of production, export competitiveness, and infrastructure? • What is PM MITRA scheme? Key Takeaways: Ashok Gulati and Ayushi Gupta writes: • A closer look at the apparel segment alone (under HS codes 61 and 62) shows that India's share in global trade is even lower, at 3 per cent — $15.7 billion out of $529.3 billion. More disturbing is the fact that this share has remained stagnant for the past two decades. • Despite these modest numbers, India has set a target of $40 billion in apparel exports by 2030. But in the last few years, apparel exports have declined at an AAGR of –2 per cent. If we had sustained the stronger AAGR of 8.5 per cent (2004-2017), we would reach $31 billion by 2030. And an AAGR of 8.5 per cent (2004-2023) suggests exports to reach $21 billion by 2030. These numbers make it clear that without a significant shift in policy and strategy, the $40-billion goal will remain a pipe dream. • Our research points to a fundamental constraint — India's lack of scale. Put simply, we are too many, too small, and too dispersed. Over 80 per cent of India's apparel units are Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). • China and Vietnam have built large-scale and export-oriented factories backed by integrated production systems. Even Bangladesh has found a way to either scale up or have single-window 'buying houses' that take large orders and then get executed from various factories. • While the overall garment manufacturing sector remains fragmented, there is a silver lining that shows what scale can achieve. In this context, the most powerful example is that of Shahi Exports. Founded by Sarla Ahuja in 1974, it began as a stitching unit with just a 15-women team, producing 200 pieces a day. But today, it is India's largest apparel exporter, operating over 50 factories, and three processing mills across eight states, and employing more than 1,00,000 workers, 70 per cent of them women. Do You Know: • After China, India is the second largest producer of cotton, accounting for 24% of global production. Cotton cultivation engages around 60 lakh farmers, mostly across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Telangana. The entire cotton textile value chain—from processing raw fibre and spinning yarn to weaving fabric, dyeing, and stitching—employs over 4.5 crore people. • The size of India's textile and apparel industry cannot be understated—it contributes 13% to industrial production, 12% to exports, and roughly 2% to GDP. However, manufacturing in the textile and apparel industry has slightly contracted over the past 10 years, according to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). • The PLI Scheme for Textiles to promote production of MMF apparel, MMF Fabrics and Products of Technical Textiles in the country to create 60-70 global players, attract fresh investment of Rs. 19,000 crore approximately and generate almost 7.5 lakh new employment opportunities. • To attract investment for 'Make In India' initiative and to boost employment generation through setting up of 7 (Seven) PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks in Greenfield/Brownfield sites with world class infrastructure including plug and play facility with an outlay of Rs.4445 crore for a period of seven years upto 2027-28. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍What's ailing India's textile industry and govt's attempts to improve competitiveness Previous year UPSC Main Question Covering similar theme: 📍Analyse the factors for highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India. (2013) ECONOMY Copper wire, tube imports hit multi-year highs in FY25; cathode shipments drop Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Economic and Social Development-Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc. Mains Examination: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. What's the ongoing story: India's copper cathode imports declined 34 per cent year-on-year in 2024-25 (FY25), largely due to a three-month supply disruption triggered by a quality control order (QCO), even as imports of downstream products such as wire, tubes, and sheets surged to multi-year highs. Key Points to Ponder: • What is a copper cathode? • Who uses copper cathodes? • What is the difference between copper cathode and copper concentrate? • Copper demand is often seen as a barometer of economic activity-why? • Know copper demand in India compared to other parts of the world. • The government has included copper in its list of critical minerals and there is an ongoing auction for the exploration of copper blocks. What impact will these steps have on India's dependency on copper imports? • What is the current scenario of copper processing infrastructure in India? • Can you explain the relationship between copper and energy efficiency in buildings? Key Takeaways: • While copper cathode imports dropped sharply, imports of key downstream copper products climbed in FY25 — wire rose 17 per cent y-o-y, tubes and pipes 30 per cent, and plates, sheets, and strips 49 per cent. • In India, copper is classified as a critical mineral given limited domestic production and high demand in conventional and emerging technologies—from air conditioners and transformers to electric vehicle (EV) batteries and wind turbines. It is also seen as a bellwether of economic activity owing to its extensive application across sectors. • From an average of 27,000 tonnes each month between April and November 2024, copper cathode imports fell to around 2,000 tonnes per month between December and February, after the QCO went into effect from December 1. Then, in March 2025, imports recovered slightly to 16,000 tonnes, official trade data showed. • India relies on imports for about 30 per cent of its copper cathode demand, a key raw material for wire, tubes, and sheets. The Adani Group's new Gujarat smelter, scheduled to reach peak capacity this financial year, is expected to make the country self-sufficient for the near-term. • In FY25, India imported 2.39 lakh tonnes (Rs 19,134 crore) of copper cathode, 34 per cent less than 3.63 lakh tonnes (Rs 24,552 crore) in the previous financial year. Amid sharp drop in imports between December to February, two metals trade associations filed a petition against the Union Mines Ministry, which issued the QCO, alleging that the quality norms have caused 'acute shortages' in supply. • The steep drop in imports stemmed from compliance issues among exporters, especially Japanese suppliers who dominate India's copper cathode imports. The QCO mandates that both domestic producers and foreign suppliers obtain the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification to sell copper cathode in India. Most Japanese producers received certification only after the QCO took effect, and some continued to face minor challenges in ensuring compliance post-certification. Do You Know: • Downstream copper imports climbed to multi-year highs in FY25, defying the slump in cathode shipments. Copper wire imports—primarily from the UAE—rose 17 per cent from 1.31 lakh tonnes in FY24 to 1.54 lakh tonnes in FY25, with their value jumping 29 per cent to Rs 12,653 crore. • Imports of copper products rose despite the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) enforcing a QCO on these items from October 19, 2024, initially for large and medium enterprises. Growth persisted due to potential stocking-up before enforcement, longer timelines for small (January 2025) and micro (April 2025) units, exemptions for certain tubes and export-use products, and timely grant of BIS certification to some foreign manufacturers. • Domestic copper cathode production rose 12.6 per cent to 5.73 lakh tonnes in FY25, driven primarily by Hindalco Industries Ltd, which holds a 70 per cent market share and has a capacity of 5 lakh tonnes. Production last year surpassed the previous peak of 5.55 lakh tonnes recorded in FY23. • Vedanta's Sterlite Copper, with a smaller capacity of 2.16 lakh tonnes, contributed 26 per cent of cathode in FY25. Notably, India remained self-sufficient in copper cathode until 2018, when Vedanta's Tuticorin plant was shut down over environmental violations. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍'Copper is critical for the clean energy transition… In India, strong demand from this sector may emerge by 2030' Previous year UPSC Prelims Question Covering similar theme: reference to the mineral resources of India, consider the following pairs: (2010) Mineral : 90% Natural sources in 1. Copper : Jharkhand 2. Nickel : Orissa 3. Tungsten : Kerala Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Previous year UPSC Main Question Covering similar theme: 📍Despite India being one of the countries of Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss. (2021) RBI's repo rate reduction prompts many banks to lower lending rates Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Economic and Social Development-Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc. Mains Examination: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. What's the ongoing story: The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is expected to cut the repo rate – the key policy rate – by 25 basis points (bps) in the policy meeting scheduled from June 4 to 6, to support growth as inflation continues to remain below the 4 per cent target. Key Points to Ponder: • What are the instruments of monetary policy? • Will RBI revise inflation and GDP projections? • What happens to lending rates if repo rate is left steady? • What happens when repo rate is increased? • Repo rate is the rate at which central bank of a country (in our case Reserve Bank of India) lends money to whom? • In reverse repo rate is the rate at which the central bank of a country (Reserve Bank of India in case of India) borrows money from whom? • If Repo Rate is increased or say decreased then it impacts common people? • Who decides the repo rate and reverse repo rate? • How repo rate and reverse repo rate are decided? • What is the difference between repo rate and interest rate? • If repo rate or reverse repo rate is increased or decreased, then how it impacts savings? • What Marginal Standing Facility? Key Takeaways: • A section of analysts, however, are of the view that the MPC may deliver a 50 bps cut to boost growth. Economists also believe that the RBI may maintain the 'accommodative' monetary policy stance. • With benign inflation, there has been a consensus among economists that the six-member MPC will cut the repo rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 5.75 per cent in the policy scheduled to be announced on June 6. One basis point (bps) is one-hundredth of a percentage point. • Headline inflation, as measured by year-on-year changes in the all-India consumer price index (CPI), moderated to 3.2 per cent in April, the lowest since July 2019, from 3.3 per cent in March. The easing in CPI has been driven by the sustained fall in food prices. • Economists said that with inflation remaining below the 4 per cent target in the last three months (February, March and April), and a sharp fall in food inflation, CPI is likely to durably align with the 4 per cent target over a 12-month period. • Under the flexible inflation targeting (FIT) framework, the RBI has been mandated by the government to maintain CPI at 4 per cent with a band of +/-2 per cent. • If RBI reduces the repo rate by 50 bps, the 10-year benchmark yield is likely to fall by 10-15 bps. On Thursday, yield on the new 10-year bond (6.33%-2035) closed at 6.19 per cent. Do You Know: • Monetary policy essentially deals with the supply and cost (interest rates) of money in an economy. The RBI's MPC meets every two months to assess the state of monetary activities, and may tweak the repo rate — the interest rate at which the RBI lends to commercial banks — in a manner that reduces price fluctuations in the economy while keeping the inflation rate (the rate at which the general price level in the economy grows) at a reasonable level. • According to RBI,if the repo rate is reduced by 25 bps, all external benchmark lending rates (EBLR) linked to it will decline by a similar margin. It would be a relief for borrowers as their equated monthly instalments (EMIs) on home and personal loans will drop by 25 bps. • Following a 50 bps cut in the repo rate since February 2025, most banks have reduced their repo-linked lending rates by the same magnitude. Lenders have also lowered their marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR). • Following the likely repo rate cut in the June policy, the RBI may go for a total reduction of 50 bps in the current financial year, experts said. there are several direct and indirect instruments that are used for implementing monetary policy. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍Why MPC is likely to cut repo rate for 3rd consecutive time 'New base year for GDP, CPI, IIP from early 2026; Services survey from Jan' Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Economic and Social Development-Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc. Mains Examination: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. What's the ongoing story: With the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) undertaking a base revision exercise and expansion of its data indicators, the key economic datasets — GDP, IIP and CPI — will see a new base from next year onwards, MoSPI Secretary Saurabh Garg said. Key Points to Ponder: • What is the base year? • What is the base year for the GDP, IIP and CPI? • Reasons for revising the base year-know in detail • What are the considerations for the new base year? • How is a base year chosen? Key Takeaways: • The base year revision exercise of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP) and Consumer Price Index (CPI) is currently underway. For GDP, the new series is scheduled to be released on February 27, 2026 with financial year 2022-23 as base year. For IIP, 2022 -23 has been tentatively identified as the revised base. IIP on revised base would be released from 2026-27. For CPI, 2024 has been identified as the revised base year as the item basket and the weightage of the items would be decided based on the NSO's Household Consumer Expenditure Survey (HCES) conducted in 2023-24. The new CPI series is expected to be published from the first quarter of 2026. • Initially, the Ministry decided to use 2022-23 HCES data for deriving weights and item basket for CPI base updation. Now since data for HCES 2023-24 is released and available for use, the Ministry has decided to use the latest data that is HCES 2023-24 data for deriving weights and item basket for the new series. • In GDP calculation, in addition to the use of data from Controller General of Accounts, MCA-21, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), etc. as was done in the previous base revision exercise, use of GST data, E-Vahan portal, UPI transaction data from NPCI, etc. (will be done) by NSO. MoSPI has tapped the GSTN database for conducting Annual Survey of Service Sector Enterprises (ASSSE), which is new in the NSS ecosystem. Do You Know: • A base year is the first of a series of years in an economic or financial index. In this context, it is typically set to an arbitrary level of 100. New, up-to-date base years are periodically introduced to keep data current in a particular index. Base years are also used to measure the growth of a company. Any year can serve as a base year, but analysts typically choose recent years. • A base year is used for comparison in the measure of business activity or economic or financial index. For example, to find the rate of inflation between 2016 and 2024, 2016 is the base year or the first year in the time set. The base year can also describe the starting point from a point of growth or a baseline for calculating same-store sales. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍Amid economic slowdown, govt to decide new base year for GDP in few months Previous year UPSC Main Question Covering similar theme: 📍Explain the difference between computing methodology of India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015. (2021) EXPLAINED Stepping up Naxal fight, carrying on welfare push Syllabus: Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance. Mains Examination: General Studies III: Linkages between development and spread of extremism and Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. What's the ongoing story: The first year of Modi 3.0 has seen the government step up its efforts to root out the decades-long Naxal insurgency, while building on flagship welfare policies introduced in its previous two terms. Key Points to Ponder: • Naxalism in India-Know the background • What is red corridor or red zone? • Map Work-Red Corridor • How many states are affected by Naxalism in India? • Maoism and Naxalism-Compare and Contrast • What are Naxals fighting for in India? • What are the socio-economic conditions the districts that make up the red corridor? • 'Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat'-discuss • What steps being taken by the Government of India to eradicate Naxal and LWE forces from the country? • How the Government of India has taken several specific initiatives in LWE affected States with Special reference to expansion of road network, improving Telecommunication connectivity, skill development and financial inclusion? • What do you know about the 'Integrated Action Plan in Naxal-affected Districts'? Key Takeaways: • Union Home Minister Amit Shah last August announced that Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) would be eliminated from the country by March 31, 2026. This was a statement of the government's intent to bring an end to the insurgency that has cast a shadow over the very heart of the country. • To this end, security forces have registered significant gains against Naxals over the past year, especially in Chhattisgarh and parts of Jharkhand and Odisha, considered to be the last bastions of the Maoists. Major inroads have been made in Maoist strongholds in the Bijapur-Sukma-Dantewada tri-junction in Chhattisgarh, supported by intensified operations, the construction of forward operating bases, and better road connectivity. • In Chhattisgarh alone, security forces have killed 209 Maoists in the first five months of 2025, compared to 219 in all of 2024. In 2023, forces had killed 53 Maoists across states. Those killed in encounters include top Maoist commanders: the biggest success came on May 21when security forces killed CPI Maoist general secretary Basavaraju in the forests of Abujhmad. • Key to these recent successes, sources said, has been the political will of the government, intelligence-driven operations, improved coordination between state and central agencies, and state forces such as the District Reserve Guards of Chhattisgarh taking the lead in operations. • However, there have also been some setbacks. Maoist ambushes in places such as Kolhan, Jharkhand, and Abujhmad, Chhattisgarh, have resulted in casualties among security forces, and indicated that Naxals retain the ability to hit back in their strongholds. The road ahead involves not only sustaining pressure on residual Maoist zones but also ensuring that governance and infrastructure reach these regions. Do You Know: • In what might be the most significant decision yet under Modi 3.0, the Centre last September approved the expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) to include all Indians above the age of 70 years, irrespective of their income or social status. • Launched in 2018, PM-JAY is the Modi government's flagship programme in the health sector. Even prior to its expansion, it was the world's largest health insurance scheme, providing free cover of upto Rs 5 lakh per family per year to 40% of the most economically backward households in India. • By extending universal coverage to the elderly, the Centre has anticipated what might be one of India's biggest challenges in the coming decades. • According to the government's Longitudinal Ageing Study in India, the number of senior citizens (60 years and above) will increase from 103 million in 2011 to 319 million in 2050, going up from 8.6% of the total population to 19.5%. According to the India Ageing Report 2023, just over 20% of this population was covered by any government, employer-provided, or personal insurance scheme. • Last year, the government approved the extension of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) till 2029, paving the way for the construction of two crore more houses under the programme. The Centre has already released Rs 34,000 crore to states under the PMAY-G, and cleared the allocations of 84.45 lakh houses. The Centre has also approved Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-IV (PMGSY-IV) to connect 25,000 villages with all-weather roads by 2028-29. Other Important Articles Covering the same topic: 📍HEALING TOUCH ON REBELS Previous year UPSC Main Question Covering similar theme: 📍The persisting drives of the government for development of large industries in backward areas have resulted in isolating the tribal population and the farmers who face multiple displacements. With Malkangiri and Naxalbari foci, discuss the corrective strategies needed to win the Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) doctrine that affected citizens back into the mainstream of social and economic growth. (2015) For any queries and feedback, contact Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. Priya Kumari Shukla is a Senior Copy Editor in the Indian Express (digital). She contributes to the UPSC Section of Indian Express (digital) and started niche initiatives such as UPSC Key, UPSC Ethics Simplified, and The 360° UPSC Debate. The UPSC Key aims to assist students and aspirants in their preparation for the Civil Services and other competitive examinations. It provides valuable guidance on effective strategies for reading and comprehending newspaper content. The 360° UPSC Debate tackles a topic from all perspectives after sorting through various publications. The chosen framework for the discussion is structured in a manner that encompasses both the arguments in favour and against the topic, ensuring comprehensive coverage of many perspectives. Prior to her involvement with the Indian Express, she had affiliations with a non-governmental organisation (NGO) as well as several coaching and edutech enterprises. In her prior professional experience, she was responsible for creating and refining material in various domains, including article composition and voiceover video production. She has written in-house books on many subjects, including modern India, ancient Indian history, internal security, international relations, and the Indian economy. She has more than eight years of expertise in the field of content writing. Priya holds a Master's degree in Electronic Science from the University of Pune as well as an Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management (EPPPM) from the esteemed Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, widely recognised as one of the most prestigious business schools in India. She is also an alumni of Jamia Milia Islamia University Residential Coaching Academy (RCA). Priya has made diligent efforts to engage in research endeavours, acquiring the necessary skills to effectively examine and synthesise facts and empirical evidence prior to presenting their perspective. Priya demonstrates a strong passion for reading, particularly in the genres of classical Hindi, English, Maithili, and Marathi novels and novellas. Additionally, she possessed the distinction of being a cricket player at the national level. Qualification, Degrees / other achievements: Master's degree in Electronic Science from University of Pune and Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management (EPPPM) from Indian Institute of Management Calcutta ... Read More
Hindustan Times
40 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
In Madurai, the BJP's pitch to win Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu's assembly elections are due only in April next year. However, the BJP has already sounded the poll bugle. Union home minister Amit Shah addressed a public meeting in Madurai on Sunday, where he accused the ruling DMK of running a corrupt government. He also flagged Operation Sindoor and reminded the audience that Prime Minister Modi had installed the sengol (sceptre) at the new Parliament premises. With an alliance with the AIADMK, the chief opposition party, almost in place, the BJP seems to have readied its arsenal to launch a poll battle in Tamil Nadu. That Shah chose to launch the BJP's campaign in Madurai is not at all surprising. Madurai is both the state's cultural capital and the gateway to southern Tamil Nadu, a region where the BJP has made significant inroads since the 1980s. But can the BJP translate these gains into electoral wins? Shah's speech suggests that the party is likely to rely on nationalism, corruption allegations and faith to tide over the formidable political alliance that the DMK leads. In recent years, the DMK has doubled down on its Dravidian legacy, also in a bid to corner the BJP on charges of promoting a Hindi-Hindu nationalism, which it claims is against the political and cultural ethos of Tamil Nadu. The BJP has also embraced local symbols (sengol, for instance) and faith traditions to appeal to the faithful in the state. Shah pointedly spoke about the Murugan conference that Madurai is set to host later this month. Five years ago, the party had held a Vel (spear) Yatra to appeal to followers of this popular Tamil deity. Considering the competitive nature of Tamil politics, with multiple fronts likely to be in the fray, any incremental gains in vote share can make a difference to the outcome. The BJP is aware of it.
Hindustan Times
44 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Building a resilient, globally respected, self-reliant India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership over the past 11 years has redefined India's governance, establishing a new normal marked by transparency, decisiveness and inclusivity. Operation Sindoor, which neutralised nine terror camps and 11 bases in Pakistan, epitomised this shift, treating terrorism as an act of war and dismissing Pakistan's nuclear bluff. As Modi 3.0 marks its first year, this decade-plus of reform has transformed India's trajectory across security, economy, gender empowerment, and social welfare. This vision is encapsulated in two acronyms: RAM (rashtriya suraksha, arthvyavastha and atmanirbharta, mahila empowerment and middle-class relief) and GITA (global positioning, infrastructure, technology, alleviating poverty). Rashtriya suraksha (national security): Since 2014, India has adopted a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism, moving from appeasement to assertive action. Operations like the surgical strikes, Balakot airstrike, and Operation Sindoor reflect a policy that imposes punitive costs on terrorists and their state sponsors, rejecting dossiers for decisive responses. The 2019 abrogation of Article 370 fully integrated Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring one flag and one constitution nationwide. Maoist-affected districts have dropped from 106 in 2015 to 18 in 2025, blending development and security operations. Home minister Amit Shah has pledged a Maoist-free India by March 2026. Defence self-reliance has surged, with 5,000 items on indigenisation lists and 75% of the FY 2025-26 defence modernisation budget allocated to domestic production. Defence exports reached ₹23,622 crore in 2024-25, marking a new era of strategic autonomy and strength. Arthvyavastha and atmanirbharta (economy and self-reliance): India has transformed from one of the 'fragile five' to the world's fifth-largest economy, with projected growth of 6.3% to 6.8% in 2025-26, poised to become the third-largest soon. Economic reforms have driven confidence, with foreign direct investment crossing $1 trillion since April 2020, including a 26% jump in H1 FY 2024-25. Exports hit a record $825 billion last year. Inflation, averaging 8.2% under the UPA government and often hitting double digits, has been moderated to 4% to 5.5% despite global crises such as Covid and the Ukraine-Russia war. The push for self-reliance extends beyond defence, with policies fostering innovation, manufacturing, and global competitiveness, positioning India as an investment hub. Mahila (women) empowerment and middle-class relief: Women-led development is a cornerstone of Modi 3.0. The sex ratio has improved to 1,020 women per 1,000 men. Over ₹18,500 crore has been disbursed to 4 crore pregnant and lactating mothers under Pradhan Mantri Matru vandana Yojana (PMMVY), while 10.33 crore smoke-free kitchens have enhanced women's health. Women received 68% of Mudra loans ( ₹14.72 lakh crore) and own 73% of PM Awas-Gramin homes. Initiatives like toilets in schools and tap water connections prioritise women's dignity, health, and education. Laws against triple talaq, the Uniform Civil Code, and the Women's Reservation Act promote gender equity. Operation Sindoor's press briefings, led by women officers, colonel Sofiya Qureshi and wing commander Vyomika Singh, inspire young girls to join the armed forces, showcasing women's leadership. The middle-class benefits from tax rebates up to ₹12.75 lakh and controlled inflation, easing financial burdens. Over 15,000 Jan Aushadi Kendras offer generic medicines at 50–90% lower costs. Ayushman Bharat's ₹5 lakh health cover for 50 crore Indians, now including seniors over 70, has saved ₹1 lakh crore in health care expenses. Metro services in 23 cities, 136 Vande Bharat trains, and modernised airports enhance connectivity. Digital India thrives with 46 crore UPI users, 52 crore DigiLocker users, and a 97% drop in data costs, making the middle class more connected and aspirational. Global positioning: India's foreign policy balances strength and compassion. The G20 presidency showcased leadership in amplifying Global South concerns. Vaccine Maitri delivered over 30 crore vaccine doses to 100-plus countries, cementing India's role in global solidarity. India engages both Russia and Ukraine, supports Israel against Hamas, and strengthens ties with West Asia and the Gulf. Shifting from non-alignment to an all-aligned approach, India has earned global trust, evident in support from Pahalgam to Operation Sindoor, reversing past isolation at the UN. Infrastructure: Infrastructure has seen unprecedented growth. Highway construction has risen from 11 km/day to 34 km/day, backed by a 570% budget increase. Rural road connectivity is near 99%, with 3.96 lakh km built. The railway budget has grown ninefold, with 136 Vande Bharat trains operational. Metro networks span 1,013 km across 23 cities, and 100 new airports are functional. The PM Gati Shakti initiative aims to reduce logistics costs from ₹9 lakh crore annually to 8–9% of GDP, boosting competitiveness through multi-modal connectivity and streamlined coordination. Technology: Digital penetration has soared with 116 crore mobile subscribers and a 285% rise in internet users. BharatNet's 6.93 lakh km of optical fibre connects 2.14 lakh gram panchayats, and 5.76 lakh common service centres deliver services. UPI handles 49% of global real-time payments, with ₹24 lakh crore in transactions in April 2025. Startups, 51% from tier 2 and 3 cities, thrive alongside platforms like GeM ( ₹13.41 lakh crore in orders). Direct benefit transfers ( ₹44 lakh crore) have eliminated welfare leakages, ensuring benefits reach the needy directly. Alleviating poverty: Poverty has plummeted, with the rate dropping from 27.1% in 2011-12 to 5.3% in 2022-23 (World Bank). Multidimensional poverty fell from 29.17% to 11.28% (Niti Aayog), lifting 25 crore people. Schemes like PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Ujjwala Yojana, and PM Jan Dhan Yojana prioritise dignity, self-reliance, and access to food, water, and finance, empowering millions to rise above poverty. Modi 3.0's first year builds on a decade of bold reforms, redefining India's governance through security, economic growth, women's empowerment, and poverty alleviation. The RAM and GITA framework reflects a resilient, self-reliant, and globally respected India, poised for inclusive progress and a redefined destiny. Shehzad Poonawalla is spokesperson, BJP. The views expressed are personal.
