India Expresses Caution on Saudi-Pakistan Pact, Intensifies Trade Dialogues
India has conveyed its expectations to Saudi Arabia to consider mutual interests and sensitivities following the Saudi-Pakistan defense pact. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the need for careful consideration of regional dynamics. This comes amidst intensified efforts to forge stronger economic ties with other nations. India and the United States are set to intensify their efforts towards concluding a comprehensive trade deal. Additionally, the next round of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks between India and New Zealand is scheduled for October. The UAE has also expressed keen interest in investing in India's high-tech sectors, signalling growing economic cooperation. Furthermore, National Security Advisors and diplomats from India and Canada met in Delhi to discuss a reset in ties, focusing on the Khalistani threat and security cooperation. Rajnath Singh is also slated to inaugurate India's first overseas Defence factory in Morocco.
Economic Reforms and Positive Indicators
The Finance Ministry has officially notified new Central GST tax rates, a move expected to streamline the tax regime. This development aligns with the Centre's directive to farm machinery manufacturers to reduce prices following the GST rate reduction. On the revenue front, net direct tax collection has shown robust growth, increasing by 9.18% annually to reach ā¹10.83 trillion. This strong performance in tax collection contributes to a positive economic outlook. Further bolstering investor confidence, India has secured its third credit rating upgrade in the current fiscal year (FY26), with Japan's R&I lifting its outlook. The Income-Tax Department also reported detecting ā¹700 crore in fraudulent exemption claims, indicating ongoing efforts to curb financial irregularities. Moreover, bitumen demand surged by 47% in August, reflecting increased road construction activity.
Internal Security Challenges and Space Exploration Milestones
In a significant internal security incident, two Assam Rifles jawans were killed and five others injured in an ambush in Manipur's Bishnupur district. This incident underscores the persistent security challenges in the region. Meanwhile, developments in Jammu & Kashmir saw tribunals upholding the ban on two local groups, including Mirwaiz Farooq's Awami Action Committee. Yasin Malik's court affidavit also detailed his engagements with former Prime Ministers and top intelligence officials. On a scientific note, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to send its half-humanoid 'Vyommitra' into space this December, a crucial precursor to India's human spaceflight mission.
Social Policy Updates and International Immigration News
India has eased its passport application process for transgender citizens, a progressive step towards inclusivity. In the education sector, major changes have been announced for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) starting from 2025. Internationally, Indian professionals seeking opportunities in the United States may face new challenges as the Trump administration announced a proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications, alongside introducing a 'Gold Card' residency path.