National Developments and Policy Updates
A tragic stampede occurred at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, on Sunday, July 27, 2025, resulting in at least six fatalities and dozens of injuries. The incident was reportedly triggered by panic after an electric wire fell, causing a crowd surge among devotees. Authorities are investigating the cause and crowd management protocols.
In other significant national news, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declined to provide data on beneficiaries under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has introduced new guidelines mandating annual comprehensive third-party cybersecurity audits for all public and private organizations managing digital systems. Additionally, the National Medical Commission has issued guidelines regulating the conduct and broadcast of live surgeries.
The government has also extended the deadline for central government employees to opt for the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) under the National Pension System (NPS) until September 30, 2025. As of July 20, 2025, over 31,555 employees had chosen this option. Central government employees and pensioners can anticipate the final Dearness Allowance (DA) hike under the 7th Pay Commission around October 2025.
A significant environmental policy shift was noted as the Indian government exempted most coal-fired power plants from installing technology to reduce sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions, reversing a 2015 directive. This move has drawn criticism from environmental experts.
Economic Landscape and Financial Reforms
India's economic outlook remains robust, with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) projecting a 6.5% GDP growth for FY26, supported by strong domestic demand and government capital expenditures. The fiscal deficit is also projected to decline. India has emerged as the world's fourth-largest economy in 2025 and is on track to become the third-largest by 2028.
New financial rules came into effect from July 1, 2025, notably tightening Goods and Services Tax (GST) compliance. The GSTR-3B form will no longer be editable after filing, requiring businesses to adopt a more rigorous approach to data accuracy. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) successfully hosted the Maritime Financing Summit 2025 in New Delhi, focusing on transformative financial solutions for India's maritime future.
International Relations and Engagements
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited the United Kingdom (July 23-24, 2025), where a landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed. This agreement aims to facilitate trade and double bilateral trade to nearly USD 56 billion by 2030. India also solidified its relationship with the Maldives, signing eight key bilateral agreements covering areas such as digital payments (UPI integration), debt relief, and a Line of Credit.
In a joint statement with the U.S., India reiterated calls for Pakistan to ensure its territory is not used for cross-border terrorist attacks. The U.S. also designated 'The Resistance Front' (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization on July 18, 2025. Globally, France announced its formal recognition of Palestine as a state at the United Nations General Assembly in September.
Science, Technology, and Sports
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan was honored with the GP Birla Memorial Award 2025. In sports, Anahat Singh secured India's first World Junior squash medal (bronze) in 15 years.
These events highlight a busy period for India, with a mix of domestic challenges, economic advancements, and active participation in global affairs.