Read Current Affairs
- Why in News?
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 12th Independence Day address from the Red Fort carried a mix of ideological assertions and developmental promises. While he praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and raised concerns about a so-called demographic conspiracy, his words reflected an attempt to highlight population imbalances and the alleged infiltration of undocumented migrants, a move critics view as polarising. Alongside this, Mr. Modi launched a High-Powered Demography Mission, projecting it as a national safeguard.
- Key Provisions:-
- On national security, he hailed the armed forces for Operation Sindoor, which displayed indigenous defence strength, and announced Mission Sudarshan Chakra—a fully indigenous system planned for 2035. He reiterated zero tolerance towards Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and noted progress against Maoist insurgency. The speech also addressed economic challenges, with assurances of next-generation GST reforms by Deepavali 2025 to ease taxation and stimulate business. Balancing ideological narratives with practical governance, Mr. Modi’s message reflected both political positioning and policy ambitions.
- Why in News?
- On August 11, 2025, the Centre urged India’s seafood industry—employing nearly 28 million people—to withstand the U.S.’s 25% tariff imposed on August 7, with the possibility of it doubling to 50% by August 27 depending on trade talks.
- Key Provisions:-
- Senior officials later indicated that the government is considering adjustments to the Export Promotion Mission (EPM), a ₹2,250-crore initiative announced in the 2025 Budget. The EPM aims to enhance export credit access, insure overseas payments, and address trade barriers, with a strong focus on MSMEs. Discussions are on to bring the Fisheries and Textiles Ministries into its fold, as both sectors, supporting around 135 million livelihoods, face acute risks from U.S. sanctions.
- The government’s parallel call to diversify export markets signals stalled trade negotiations with Washington, despite strong Modi–Trump ties. As MSMEs—responsible for 46% of India’s exports—demand relief measures, sectors like fisheries and textiles seek moratoriums and interest support, even as subsidies remain off the table.
- Why in News?
- The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the first-ever cadre review of the Border Security Force (BSF), the world’s largest border guarding force.
- About BSF
- The BSF was established in 1965 following Pakistan’s incursion in Gujarat and functions as a Central Armed Police Force under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Its primary responsibility is to secure India’s borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, while it is also deployed in certain Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected states for internal security duties.
- Roles and Responsibilities
- During peacetime, the BSF focuses on preventing cross-border crimes such as smuggling, infiltration, and illegal movement, thereby maintaining security in sensitive border regions. In times of war, it plays a vital role by holding ground until the Army arrives, assisting in offensive operations, guarding prisoners of war, and securing supply routes and rear areas.
- The cadre review is expected to strengthen the force’s structure and improve its operational effectiveness.