International Relations and Economic Diplomacy at Forefront
India is navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, highlighted by new economic pressures from the United States. US President Donald Trump announced an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian goods, raising the total duty to 50 percent, effective August 28. This move is primarily attributed to India's continued purchase of Russian oil, despite Western sanctions. The tariffs have spurred discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on the impact of unilateral tariffs, with India signaling a potential rebalancing of its global partnerships.
In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Modi is set to visit China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin on August 31. This marks his first visit to China since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, with potential sideline meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Concurrently, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval has been in Moscow, working out the dates for Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India. Discussions during Doval's visit focused on bilateral energy and defense cooperation, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations amidst the US tariff imposition.
Domestic Developments and Governance
Domestically, Indian-administered Kashmir witnessed significant action as authorities banned 25 books, including works by Booker Prize winner Arundhati Roy, alleging they propagate "false narratives" and "secessionism." Police subsequently raided bookshops across Srinagar and other locations to confiscate the proscribed literature.
In a move beneficial for competitive exam aspirants, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has introduced a new email notification system. This initiative aims to keep institutions updated on recruitment advertisements, ensuring eligible candidates do not miss out on opportunities. Furthermore, the Indian Parliament recently passed the 'Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025,' aimed at modernizing maritime trade laws, and the 'eSAKSHI Portal' was launched to revolutionize MPLADS Fund Management through real-time tracking. Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated 'Kartavya Bhavan,' marking the first step towards the Central Vista's Common Central Secretariat.