In a historic decision, the Karnataka State Cabinet approved a new reservation matrix for Scheduled Castes (SCs), slicing the existing 17% reservation. Dalit Right (Holeyas) and Dalit Left (Madigas) groups will each receive 6% internal quota, while Lambani, Korama, Koracha, Bhovis, and 59 other smaller communities will be allotted 5%. This decision aims to bring closure to a three-decade-old struggle for internal reservation among SCs, following the Supreme Court's allowance for such provisions. An ordinance will be promulgated after the Monsoon session to implement these changes.
- Karnataka Cabinet approved a new internal reservation matrix for Scheduled Castes (SCs) within the existing 17% quota.
- Dalit Right (Holeyas) and Dalit Left (Madigas) groups will each get 6% internal reservation.
- Lambani, Korama, Koracha, Bhovis, and 59 other smaller communities will receive 5% reservation.
The Supreme Court intervened in the Tamil Nadu Governor case, granting deemed assent to 10 State Bills that had been pending since 2020. The Bench clarified its action was to resolve an "egregious situation" and not to overrule previous judgments. Attorney General R. Venkataramani argued that the Governor was within his powers under Article 200 to withhold assent and was not bound by the Council of Ministers' advice. A Presidential Reference is currently questioning the SC's power to impose three-month deadlines on Governors, with the A-G contending that Article 142 cannot supplant substantive law or violate the Constitution's basic structure.
- The Supreme Court intervened in the Tamil Nadu Governor case to resolve a situation where State Bills were pending since 2020.
- The Attorney General argued that the Governor's power to withhold assent under Article 200 is discretionary and not bound by the Council of Ministers' advice.
- The SC clarified its action was not meant to overrule previous judgments but to address a 'glaring' factual situation.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has recommended significant reforms to toll collection on national highways, advocating for an end to "perpetual tolling" once capital and maintenance costs are recovered. The PAC expressed concern that current practices allow indefinite collection regardless of road quality or user affordability. It proposed establishing an independent regulatory authority for transparency in toll determination and collection, and suggested reimbursements for users during construction. Despite FASTags, traffic bottlenecks persist due to malfunctioning scanners. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways acknowledged the concerns and initiated a comprehensive study with NITI Aayog to revise the user fee determination framework, considering factors like vehicle operating cost and user willingness to pay.
- The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) recommends ending perpetual toll collection on national highways after capital and maintenance costs are recovered.
- The PAC called for an independent regulatory authority to ensure transparency and fairness in toll determination, collection, and regulation.
- It highlighted issues with FASTags, including persistent traffic bottlenecks due to malfunctioning scanners.
The Union Home Ministry has stated that the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) can nominate five members to the Legislative Assembly without the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. This raises questions about democratic accountability in Union Territories (UTs). While the Constitution provides for nominated members in Parliament and State legislatures (nominated by President/Governors on ministerial advice), the procedure for UTs is governed by specific Acts of Parliament. The Madras High Court previously upheld the Union government's power to nominate members to the Puducherry Assembly without ministerial advice, a ruling later set aside by the Supreme Court on recommendations. The Supreme Court's 'triple chain of command' concept from the NCT of Delhi case, which mandates LGs to act on ministerial advice in most matters, is relevant here, advocating for democratic principles in J&K's nominations.
- The Union Home Ministry asserts that the J&K LG can nominate five assembly members without the Council of Ministers' advice.
- The Indian Constitution provides for nominated members in Parliament and State legislatures, where nominations are typically based on ministerial advice.
- For Union Territories, nominations are governed by specific Acts of Parliament, such as the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963.
The government introduced the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to amend 355 provisions across 16 Central Acts to enhance "ease of living." The Bill proposes to decriminalise 288 provisions and amend 67 others. It builds upon the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, which previously decriminalised 183 provisions across 42 Central Acts. The new legislation suggests that first-time contraventions for 76 offences under 10 Acts will only attract an advisory or warning. Imprisonment clauses for minor defaults will be replaced with proportionate monetary penalties or warnings, with increasing penalties for repeated offences. The government has requested the Speaker to refer the Bill to a Select Committee for review.
- The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025, was introduced to decriminalise and amend provisions across 16 Central Acts.
- The Bill proposes to decriminalise 288 provisions and amend 67 others to facilitate "ease of living."
- It builds on the 2023 Act, which decriminalised 183 provisions across 42 Central Acts.
The Union government has launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana portal, a scheme aimed at generating 3.5 crore jobs. Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya encouraged first-time employees and employers to utilize the scheme's benefits. The scheme covers both employers and first-time employees, allowing beneficiaries to avail incentives by registering on the portal or uploading their Universal Account Number (UAN) via the UMANG application. Part A of the scheme is designed for first-time employees, while Part B caters to employers, facilitating job creation and employment opportunities across the country.
- The Union government launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana portal.
- The scheme aims to generate 3.5 crore jobs.
- Both first-time employees and employers are covered under the scheme.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced in Lok Sabha that an Indian astronaut will land on the moon by 2040, and India will establish its own 'Bharat Antariksh Station' by 2035. He highlighted the growth of India's space economy to $8 billion, projected to reach $45 billion in the next decade, following reforms initiated in 2014. Future missions include an uncrewed space mission with robot Vyommitra in 2026, followed by the maiden human spaceflight Gaganyaan in 2027. Separately, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 commercial mission, discussing his experiences and India's space progress.
- India aims to land an astronaut on the moon by 2040 and establish its own space station by 2035.
- The Indian space economy has grown to $8 billion and is projected to reach $45 billion within the next decade.
- Upcoming missions include an uncrewed mission with Vyommitra in 2026 and the Gaganyaan human spaceflight in 2027.
Global chronic undernourishment is declining, with 673 million people undernourished in 2024, down from 688 million in 2023, marking a reversal from COVID-19 increases. India has been pivotal in this progress, driven by policy investments in food security, digital technology, and improved service delivery. The prevalence of undernourishment in India decreased from 14.3% (2020-22) to 12% (2022-24), meaning 30 million fewer people living with hunger. This success is largely attributed to the transformed Public Distribution System (PDS) through digitalization and Aadhaar-enabled targeting. However, challenges remain in nutrition, with healthy diets unaffordable for over 60% of the population, necessitating agrifood system transformation and continued investment in digital tools and women-led enterprises.
- Global chronic undernourishment has decreased, with India significantly contributing to this positive trend.
- India's prevalence of undernourishment declined from 14.3% to 12% between 2020-22 and 2022-24, reducing the number of hungry people by 30 million.
- The transformation of India's Public Distribution System (PDS) through digitalization and Aadhaar-enabled targeting is central to this achievement.
The Income Tax Bill 2025, passed by Parliament, replaces the outdated Income Tax Act of 1961, aiming for simpler, more concise, and clearer legislation. It significantly reduces the number of chapters and sections, increases tables and formulae for clarity, and simplifies language. Taxpayer-friendly features include allowing updates to income tax returns up to four years from the assessment year's end without penalty and reducing the assessment reopening period to five years. However, new provisions regarding searches by tax officials are concerning, as they mandate sharing passwords for electronic documents, including social media and personal emails, and empower officials to override computer system access codes, raising privacy issues.
- The Income Tax Bill 2025 replaces the Income Tax Act of 1961, aiming to simplify and rationalize India's income tax legislation.
- The new Bill significantly reduces the number of chapters (from 47 to 23) and sections (from 819 to 536) while simplifying language.
- Taxpayer-friendly provisions include allowing income tax returns to be updated up to four years from the assessment year's end without penalty.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched the 'Thayumanavar Thittam', a scheme aimed at delivering ration supplies directly to the doorstep of over 21.7 lakh elderly citizens and persons with disabilities across the State. The scheme will be implemented through 34,809 fair price shops, benefiting over 20.42 lakh citizens aged above 70 and 1.27 lakh persons with disabilities. Essential commodities will be delivered on the second Saturday and Sunday of every month, incurring an additional expenditure of ₹30.16 crore for the Cooperation Department.
- Tamil Nadu has launched a new scheme, 'Thayumanavar Thittam', for doorstep delivery of ration supplies.
- The scheme targets elderly citizens (above 70) and persons with disabilities.
- Ration supplies will be delivered monthly on specific weekends through existing fair price shops.
The Bombay High Court rejected a bail plea, stating that documents like Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID are for identification only and do not confer Indian citizenship, which is governed by the Citizenship Act, 1955. Separately, the Union Home Ministry, in a Lok Sabha reply, refrained from specifying "valid documents" required to prove citizenship. It reiterated that citizenship is acquired by birth, descent, registration, naturalisation, or incorporation of territory, as per the Citizenship Act, 1955, and its rules. The Ministry also mentioned that the Act requires compulsory registration of every Indian citizen and issuance of national ID cards.
- The Bombay High Court clarified that identification documents like Aadhaar or Voter ID are not sufficient proof of Indian citizenship.
- Citizenship in India is primarily determined by the provisions of the Citizenship Act, 1955.
- The Union Home Ministry has not specified a list of "valid documents" for proving citizenship, referring instead to the Citizenship Act, 1955.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has initiated the process to remove Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court by admitting a motion signed by 146 members. A three-member inquiry committee, comprising Supreme Court judge Justice Aravind Kumar, Madras High Court Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, and senior Karnataka High Court advocate B.V. Acharya, has been constituted to probe charges against Justice Varma. The charges stem from burnt currency notes found at his official residence, leading to an in-house inquiry that indicted him. The Speaker emphasized the importance of unimpeachable character and integrity in the judiciary.
- The Lok Sabha Speaker has admitted a motion for the removal of a High Court judge, constituting an inquiry committee.
- The process is initiated under Section 3(2) of the Judges (Inquiry) Act 1968, following charges of corruption.
- The inquiry committee includes a Supreme Court judge, a High Court Chief Justice, and a senior advocate.
Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate and microfinance pioneer, has risen to become the chief of Bangladesh's interim government. His appointment follows widespread protests and the resignation of the previous government. Yunus, known for his work with Grameen Bank, faces the challenge of stabilizing the country, ensuring free and fair elections, and addressing economic and political turmoil. His transition from academia and social entrepreneurship to political leadership marks a significant moment in Bangladesh's history.
- Muhammad Yunus, Nobel laureate, became chief of Bangladesh's interim government.
- His appointment followed widespread protests and the previous government's resignation.
- Yunus faces challenges of stabilizing the country and ensuring fair elections.
The Election Commission (EC) clarified the process for addressing missing names on Bihar's electoral rolls, following concerns raised by political parties. The EC explained that a comprehensive revision process was undertaken, and individuals whose names were missing or incorrectly entered had multiple opportunities to apply for inclusion or correction. The process involved booth-level verification, public display of draft rolls, and specific forms for claims and objections. The EC emphasized its commitment to ensuring accurate and inclusive electoral rolls.
- The EC clarified the process for addressing missing names on Bihar's electoral rolls.
- A comprehensive revision process was undertaken with multiple opportunities for citizens.
- The process involved booth-level verification and public display of draft rolls.
The government is considering rolling out a ₹2,250 crore export promotion mission to boost India's outbound trade. The mission aims to support various sectors, enhance competitiveness, and explore new markets. It will likely involve incentives, infrastructure development, and capacity building for exporters. This initiative is crucial for achieving India's ambitious export targets and integrating further into global value chains, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
- Government plans a ₹2,250 crore export promotion mission.
- The mission aims to boost India's outbound trade and enhance competitiveness.
- It will likely involve incentives, infrastructure, and capacity building for exporters.
Punjab has launched advanced anti-drone systems along its border areas to combat the increasing use of drones for smuggling drugs, arms, and other contraband from Pakistan. The new systems include drone detection, jamming, and neutralization capabilities. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance border security and curb cross-border illegal activities. The move underscores the growing threat posed by drones and the state's commitment to deploying technology for effective law enforcement and national security.
- Punjab launched anti-drone systems along its border to combat smuggling.
- Systems include drone detection, jamming, and neutralization capabilities.
- The initiative targets smuggling of drugs, arms, and contraband from Pakistan.
The Supreme Court has affirmed that Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are a "good public material resource" and their assets should be utilized for public good. The court emphasized that the government, as the owner, has the right to decide on the utilization of PSU assets, including their sale or transfer, provided it serves public interest. This ruling clarifies the government's prerogative over PSUs while underscoring their role as public assets. It has implications for disinvestment policies and the management of state-owned enterprises.
- Supreme Court affirmed PSUs as "good public material resource."
- Government has the right to decide on PSU asset utilization for public good.
- The ruling clarifies government's prerogative over PSUs as public assets.
The government has announced that all kin of deceased organ donors will now receive priority in organ transplant allocations, regardless of their state of domicile. This policy change aims to encourage organ donation by recognizing the altruistic act of donor families. Previously, priority was often limited by geographical boundaries. The new rule, applicable nationwide, seeks to increase the availability of organs and streamline the allocation process, promoting a more equitable and efficient organ transplant system.
- Kin of deceased organ donors will now get priority in organ transplant allocations.
- This priority is nationwide, irrespective of the state of domicile.
- The policy aims to encourage organ donation by recognizing donor families' altruism.
The National Medical Register (NMR) ID registration for doctors will now be managed by the National Medical Commission (NMC) through its Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB). Previously handled by the erstwhile Medical Council of India, this change aims to streamline the registration process and maintain a comprehensive database of medical professionals. The NMR ID is crucial for doctors to practice and for regulatory oversight, ensuring accountability and transparency in the medical fraternity.
- National Medical Register (NMR) ID registration for doctors is now under NMC's EMRB.
- The change aims to streamline registration and maintain a comprehensive database.
- NMR ID is crucial for doctors' practice and regulatory oversight.
Negotiations for a global plastics treaty are facing significant challenges, with consensus remaining elusive on key issues like plastic production reduction targets. Developing nations, including India, advocate for the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities' and demand financial support for implementation. Developed nations, however, are pushing for mandatory reduction targets. The ongoing discussions aim to create a legally binding instrument to address the entire lifecycle of plastics, but deep divisions persist, making it difficult to reach a comprehensive agreement.
- Global plastics treaty negotiations are struggling to achieve consensus, especially on production cuts.
- Developing nations seek 'common but differentiated responsibilities' and financial aid.
- Developed nations are advocating for mandatory plastic production reduction targets.
The decline of Maoist influence in several districts is attributed to a combination of targeted development initiatives, internal rifts within the Maoist ranks, and a leadership crisis. Government efforts to improve infrastructure, provide livelihoods, and enhance security have weakened their support base. Simultaneously, ideological differences, factionalism, and the elimination of key leaders have crippled their operational capabilities. This multi-pronged approach, focusing on both security and development, has been effective in reducing the Maoist threat and restoring governance in affected areas.
- Maoist influence is declining due to targeted development and internal issues.
- Government initiatives in infrastructure and livelihoods have weakened their support base.
- Internal rifts, ideological differences, and leadership crises have crippled Maoist operations.
NCP chief Sharad Pawar claimed that two individuals had promised him a win in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly polls if he joined the BJP-led alliance, but he chose to ignore them. Pawar's statement comes amidst ongoing political realignments and power struggles within Maharashtra. He reiterated his commitment to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, emphasizing his resolve to fight against the BJP. This revelation underscores the intense political maneuvering and attempts to influence party leaders ahead of crucial elections.
- NCP chief Sharad Pawar claimed two individuals promised him a win in 2024 Maharashtra polls.
- The offer was conditional on him joining the BJP-led alliance, which he ignored.
- Pawar reiterated his commitment to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.
The BJP criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for failing to submit written proof to the Election Commission (EC) regarding his claims of "vote theft" in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi had alleged that the BJP manipulated the electoral process, but the EC had asked him to provide specific details. The BJP accused Gandhi of making baseless allegations to discredit democratic institutions. This exchange highlights the political rhetoric surrounding electoral integrity and the need for substantiated evidence when making serious claims.
- BJP criticized Rahul Gandhi for not providing proof of "vote theft" claims to the EC.
- Gandhi had alleged BJP manipulated the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
- The Election Commission had requested specific details from Gandhi.
The Congress party has questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sudden halt of 'Operation Sindoor' in 2019, following the IAF Chief's claim of shooting down six Pakistani aircraft during the operation. Congress leaders demanded an explanation for the abrupt cessation, suggesting a potential cover-up or political motives. They also sought clarity on the number of Pakistani aircraft shot down and the reasons for the secrecy surrounding the operation. This political questioning highlights the demand for transparency in defense matters and accountability from the government.
- Congress questioned PM Modi on the sudden halt of 'Operation Sindoor' in 2019.
- The query followed the IAF Chief's claim of shooting down six Pakistani aircraft.
- Congress demanded an explanation for the abrupt cessation and alleged secrecy.