India-European Commission Partnership

The visit of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to India has set the stage for an enhanced security and defense partnership between the two entities. The European Commission, which serves as the executive arm of the European Union, evolved from the European Economic Community established in 1958 and gained significant governance power under the Lisbon Treaty of 2009. The relationship between India and the EU has strengthened over time, with bilateral trade reaching an impressive €120 billion in 2023. The partnership spans multiple sectors, including supply chain resilience, climate action, digital transformation, and defense cooperation. However, challenges persist in finalizing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement due to trade barriers and regulatory differences that both sides continue to negotiate.

Initiatives Launched to Strengthen the Maritime Sector

India’s maritime sector witnessed major developments with the launch of several initiatives aimed at modernizing port operations and strengthening trade infrastructure. The One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP) seeks to standardize port operations nationwide, reducing inefficiencies and operational costs. The Sagar Ankalan – Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) has been introduced to enhance port competitiveness and global standing. Additionally, the Bharat Global Ports Consortium has been established to expand India’s maritime influence and ensure trade resilience. Maritime India Vision 2030 aims to position India as a leading shipbuilding nation, while the Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP) promotes sustainability by reducing port pollution through eco-friendly operations.

National Science Day 2025

National Science Day 2025 is being observed across the country in commemoration of the discovery of the Raman Effect by renowned physicist C.V. Raman, who won the Nobel Prize for his work in 1930. The theme for this year, “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat,” underscores the nation’s commitment to scientific advancement. India has made significant progress in research and development, with initiatives such as the National Quantum Mission, expansion of supercomputing capabilities, and increased investment in innovation under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. These efforts are aimed at strengthening India’s global standing in scientific research and fostering young talent in STEM fields.

National Geospatial Policy 2022

The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is a transformative framework designed to position India as a global leader in geospatial technology. Replacing the outdated National Map Policy of 2005, this policy aims to deregulate geospatial data access, enhance self-reliance, and integrate location-based intelligence into governance. A key initiative under this policy is Operation Dronagiri, a pilot project implemented in five states to showcase geospatial technology applications in urban planning and disaster management. Additionally, PM Gati Shakti integrates geospatial data into infrastructure development, while the Geospatial Innovation Fund supports startups in this domain. These initiatives underscore the growing importance of geospatial intelligence in policy-making and infrastructure development.

Nuclear Weapons: ‘One-Way Road to Annihilation’

The threat posed by nuclear weapons remains a pressing global concern, as highlighted by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who warned of increasing risks due to weakening global security arrangements. Treaties such as the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), and Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) are critical to disarmament efforts. India has chosen not to be a signatory to the NPT, citing its discriminatory nature, but it adheres to a No First Use nuclear policy. The ongoing arms race among nuclear states underscores the need for renewed global commitment to disarmament and international security measures.

Nanaji Deshmukh’s Legacy

Nanaji Deshmukh was remembered on his 15th death anniversary for his contributions to rural development and nation-building. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of India’s first rural university, Chitrakoot Gramoday Vishwavidyalaya, and was instrumental in promoting self-reliant village development models. His work in social reforms and education continues to inspire many across the country.

Herath Festival Celebrations

The Kashmiri Hindu community observed the Herath Festival, an important cultural and religious event dedicated to Lord Shiva. This festival, known as Mahashivratri in other parts of India, is marked by elaborate rituals, prayers, and community gatherings, signifying the deep-rooted traditions of Kashmiri Pandits.

Climate Change and Torrential Rain in Bolivia

Bolivia faced severe torrential rains, resulting in widespread flooding and 37 fatalities. The disaster highlighted the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change. The situation in Bolivia underscores the urgent need for global climate action and adaptation strategies to mitigate such crises in vulnerable regions.

‘HeroRATS’ in Tuberculosis Detection

A groundbreaking initiative has emerged in tuberculosis detection with the use of ‘HeroRATS,’ African giant pouched rats trained to identify TB in human sputum samples. These rats have demonstrated remarkable accuracy and efficiency, offering a low-cost diagnostic alternative in high-burden regions. This innovation could significantly aid TB control efforts in developing countries.

Uyghur Deportation Raises Human Rights Concerns

Thailand deported 40 Uyghur detainees to China, raising renewed concerns over human rights violations against the ethnic minority group. The international community, including human rights organizations, has condemned the move, calling for greater protection of Uyghurs fleeing persecution in China’s Xinjiang region.

Hague Service Convention and Legal Cooperation

The Hague Service Convention was brought into focus as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission formally requested India’s cooperation in serving legal summons on business figures under this international treaty. The treaty governs the legal framework for cross-border service of judicial and extrajudicial documents in civil and commercial matters.

Make the World Wear Khadi Campaign

The “Make the World Wear Khadi” campaign was launched to promote Khadi as a sustainable and globally recognized fashion alternative. This initiative aligns with India’s push for eco-friendly and indigenous textile promotion, encouraging global adoption of handspun fabric.

Biodiversity Leak and Conservation Challenges

A recent study on biodiversity conservation revealed a concerning phenomenon known as “biodiversity leak,” where conservation efforts in one region inadvertently cause environmental degradation in another. This highlights the need for a coordinated international approach to conservation policies and ecological sustainability.

Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award

Recognizing efforts in animal welfare, the Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Awards were conferred upon individuals and organizations making outstanding contributions to the protection and well-being of animals. These awards encourage proactive involvement in animal rights and conservation efforts.

Svalbard Global Seed Vault’s Role in Agricultural Security

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault received 14,000 new seed samples, reinforcing its role in preserving global agricultural biodiversity. Situated in Norway, the vault serves as a backup for global crop diversity, ensuring food security against climate change, conflicts, and unforeseen global crises.

India’s growing engagement with the global community, investments in technology, and proactive environmental policies indicate its commitment to shaping a sustainable and secure future. The continuous evolution of diplomatic ties, scientific advancements, and regulatory reforms will be crucial in ensuring India’s long-term growth on the world stage.