National Sports Day Celebrated Across India
India is celebrating National Sports Day on August 29, 2025, marking the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. The theme for this year's celebration is "Sport to Promote Peaceful Societies," emphasizing the role of sports in fostering unity, teamwork, and social harmony. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the Fit India Mission, has organized a three-day nationwide event encouraging citizens to dedicate at least one hour daily to physical activities and participate in events promoting Olympic values. Major Dhyan Chand, known as the "Hockey Wizard," led India to Olympic gold medals in field hockey in 1928, 1932, and 1936, and this day honors his legacy while inspiring future generations.
India Responds to US Tariffs with Trade Diversification and Economic Resilience
India is actively navigating the economic landscape following the imposition of new 50% tariffs by the United States. These tariffs, which include an additional "penalty tariff" in August 2025 linked to India's purchases of Russian oil and defence imports, significantly impact key sectors such as textiles, apparel, gems and jewellery, shrimp, carpets, and leather. In response, India is bolstering trade ties with countries like China and Russia and initiating reforms to buffer the economic fallout. The government is also expanding its outreach to new markets, particularly in textiles and chemicals, to offset potential export losses and maintain trade momentum. Despite these challenges, Indian markets have shown resilience, and the government is weighing a relief package to aid affected companies.
Ahmedabad Pitches to Host Commonwealth Games 2030; India Eyes 2036 Olympics
The Union government has officially approved India's bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Ahmedabad identified as the proposed host city. This move is seen as a significant step to boost India's global sporting profile, leveraging Ahmedabad's world-class stadiums and infrastructure. Beyond the Commonwealth Games, India is also positioning Ahmedabad as a frontrunner for the 2036 Olympic Games, underscoring the nation's ambitious plans to become a major hub for international sporting events.
Economic Outlook and Biotechnology Advancements
According to an EY report based on IMF projections, India is on track to become the world's second-largest economy by 2038 in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms, with a projected GDP of USD 34.2 trillion. This robust growth trajectory is attributed to India's youthful demographics, a high savings rate, and ongoing structural reforms like GST, IBC, and UPI. In a push towards scientific and economic growth, Union Minister Jitendra Singh launched India's first National Biofoundry Network and the 'Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment (BioE3) Challenge for Youth' on August 27, 2025. These initiatives aim to strengthen biotechnology as a key pillar of India's economic growth.