Prime Minister Modi Engages at SCO Summit, Discusses Global Order and Bilateral Ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was a key figure at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin, where he engaged in significant bilateral discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The summit served as a platform for leaders to address pressing global issues, with PM Modi redefining SCO as "Security, Connectivity and Opportunity" and strongly condemning the Pahalgam terror attack, emphasizing that "no double standards on terrorism will be acceptable." During his meeting with President Xi Jinping, both leaders aimed to reset ties amidst ongoing US tariffs and reached an "important consensus." PM Modi also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for an expedited ceasefire in Ukraine and hailing India-Russia ties in defiance of US tariffs.
Discussions at the SCO Summit highlighted a push for an equal, multipolar global order, with President Xi Jinping criticizing Trump's tariff policies. The summit's Tianjin Declaration also strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack. India's strategic independence was underscored during these high-level engagements.
PM Modi Inaugurates 'Semicon India 2025' to Boost Semiconductor Ecosystem
In a significant move to advance India's technological self-reliance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 'Semicon India 2025' on September 2nd at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi. This three-day conference, running from September 2nd to 4th, aims to catalyze a robust, resilient, and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem in the country. The event will feature sessions on the progress of the Semicon India Programme, semiconductor fab and advanced packaging projects, infrastructure readiness, smart manufacturing, and investment opportunities. Over 2,500 delegates from more than 48 countries and over 150 speakers are participating, demonstrating global interest in India's semiconductor ambitions.
US-India Trade Relations Under Scrutiny Following Trump's Remarks
US-India trade relations have come under the spotlight after former US President Donald Trump branded US-India trade a "one-sided disaster" following PM Modi's meetings with President Xi and President Putin. Trump also claimed that India had offered to cut tariffs to "nothing," but stated, "it's getting late." These remarks highlight ongoing trade tensions and the complexities of India's foreign policy as it navigates relations with major global powers.
Maratha Reservation Protests Disrupt Maharashtra
The Maratha Reservation Protest has caused significant disruptions across Maharashtra, affecting cargo movement and leading to traffic chaos. The Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra Government to clear protestors from Mumbai streets, emphasizing the need to prevent further disruptions.
Northern India Grapples with Heavy Rains and Flooding
Parts of Northern India, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, have been experiencing incessant rains and severe flooding. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of extreme rainfall, with twin weather systems intensifying risks in these regions. In Uttarakhand's Yamuna Valley, heavy rains led to the formation of an artificial lake near Syana Chatti, prompting the evacuation of over 100 homes. Rescue operations are underway, and authorities are taking measures to manage the risks.
Other Key Developments
- An Indian Army contingent has arrived in Alaska, US, to participate in the 21st edition of the India-US Joint Military Exercise 'Yudh Abhyas 2025'.
- The government is set to notify the Online Gaming Act 2025, which bans all forms of online money games while promoting e-sports.
- The Supreme Court dismissed a plea challenging the nationwide rollout of 20% Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP-20).
- The upcoming Census 2027 will be the first "Digital Census," featuring geo-tagging of all buildings and electronic capture of caste data.
- Cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement.
- Over 800 people were killed in a strong earthquake that struck Afghanistan.