The Indian Navy is set to commission two state-of-the-art Project 17A stealth frigates, Udaygiri and Himgiri, at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will preside over the event, marking the first-ever simultaneous commissioning of two frontline warships built at different shipyards. These vessels are follow-on variants of the Shivalik-class frigates, featuring enhanced stealth capabilities, advanced weaponry, and modern sensor systems for full-spectrum maritime operations. Udaygiri, built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd., and Himgiri, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, showcase India's shipbuilding expertise and embody the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" vision with nearly 75% indigenous content.
- The Indian Navy is commissioning two Project 17A stealth frigates, Udaygiri and Himgiri, simultaneously at Visakhapatnam.
- These frigates are advanced variants of the Shivalik-class, equipped with enhanced stealth, modern weaponry, and sensor systems for maritime operations.
- Udaygiri was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. in Mumbai, and Himgiri by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata.
ISRO plans to launch at least three new satellites by 2026-end to replenish its Navic (Indian GPS) system, but the development of indigenous high-precision atomic clocks is a key impediment. Five of the nine launched Navic satellites are completely defunct due to clock failures, and only two have functional atomic clocks. The original clocks were imported from SpectraTime. ISRO is now developing indigenously designed rubidium clocks for the next series of satellites. Navic aims to provide accurate location services within a 1,500 km radius in India, serving as a fallback system during global conflicts.
- ISRO is facing challenges with its Navic (Indian GPS) system due to failures of imported atomic clocks in existing satellites.
- The agency plans to launch new satellites by 2026-end and is developing indigenous rubidium atomic clocks to overcome the dependency on foreign components.
- Navic is designed to provide accurate location services within India and a 1,500 km radius, serving strategic national interests.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh alleged that the Centre's ₹72,000-crore mega infrastructure project on Great Nicobar island is being "bulldozed through" and is a "maha ecological disaster." He cited a report that the Tribal Council in Nicobar Islands complained to the Tribal Affairs Minister, stating that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration falsely claimed that tribespeople's rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) had been "identified and settled" and consent obtained. The project includes a trans-shipment port, airport, township, and power plant, raising serious concerns about environmental impact and tribal rights.
- A ₹72,000-crore mega infrastructure project in Great Nicobar Island faces allegations of being an ecological disaster and violating tribal rights.
- The Tribal Council claims the administration falsely reported that Forest Rights Act (FRA) rights were settled and consent obtained for land diversion.
- The project encompasses a trans-shipment port, airport, township, and power plant, indicating significant developmental impact.
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) plans to establish a Global Capability Centre (GCC) in India, envisioned as a "Silicon Valley for solar," and set up 17 centres of excellence globally by the end of the year. The GCC in India will serve as a hub, providing testing, lab training, and a start-up ecosystem, connecting all these centres. The ISA, co-founded by India and France during the 2015 Paris Climate Conference (COP), is headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana, and has approximately 100 member countries. This initiative aims to enhance human capability in solar energy, with many countries looking to India for engineers to implement solar projects. India's cumulative solar capacity reached about 119 gigawatts (GW) by July 2025.
- The International Solar Alliance (ISA) plans to establish a Global Capability Centre (GCC) in India, akin to a "Silicon Valley for solar."
- The ISA will also set up 17 centres of excellence globally, with the GCC acting as a central hub for testing, training, and start-up ecosystems.
- The ISA was conceptualized by India and France during the 2015 Paris Climate Conference (COP).
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 Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACE) has selected the PixxelSpace India-led consortium to design, build, and operate India's first fully indigenous commercial Earth Observation (EO) satellite constellation under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This consortium, comprising Piersight Space, Satsure Analytics India, and Dhruva Space, will invest over ₹1,200 crore to launch a constellation of 12 state-of-the-art EO satellites over the next five years. The initiative aims to reduce India's reliance on foreign sources for high-resolution satellite data, ensure data sovereignty, and provide Analysis Ready Data (ARD) and Value-Added Services (VAS) for various applications, including climate change monitoring, disaster management, agriculture, and national security.
- IN-SPACE has selected the PixxelSpace India-led consortium for India's first indigenous commercial Earth Observation (EO) satellite constellation.
- The project will operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
- The consortium plans to invest over ₹1,200 crore to launch 12 state-of-the-art EO satellites within five years.
Satellite internet, particularly through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mega-constellations like Starlink, is emerging as a transformative solution for global connectivity. Unlike ground-based networks, satellite internet offers extensive and resilient coverage, especially in remote areas and during disasters, and supports mobile platforms. LEO satellites, orbiting below 2,000 km, provide low latency and are cheaper to deploy in large numbers, forming interconnected "internet in the sky" networks using inter-satellite links. This technology has vast applications in communication, transportation, public administration, healthcare, agriculture, and defense, but also presents complex security and regulatory challenges, making it a new dimension of national power.
- Satellite internet, especially LEO constellations, provides resilient global connectivity, overcoming limitations of ground-based infrastructure.
- LEO satellites offer low latency and are cost-effective for large-scale deployment, forming interconnected networks in space.
- The technology has broad applications across various sectors, including disaster response, defense, and economic development.
The Union Cabinet has approved four new semiconductor projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), bringing the total to ten. Two plants will be in Bhubaneswar (Odisha), and one each in Punjab and Andhra Pradesh. These projects have a cumulative value of ₹4,594 crore and are supported by the ₹76,000-crore ISM. The firms involved include SiCSem (silicon carbide integrated facility), Continental Device India Private Limited (expanding existing facility), 3D Glass Solutions Inc. (advanced packaging), and Advanced System in Package (ASIP) Technologies (semiconductor unit). The initiative aims to boost India's capacity in critical semiconductor technologies, particularly silicon carbide.
- The Union Cabinet has approved four new semiconductor manufacturing projects under the India Semiconductor Mission.
- These projects, located in Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh, will enhance India's domestic semiconductor production capabilities.
- The mission provides significant financial support to semiconductor units, totaling ₹76,000 crore.
Telangana's Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP), a multi-purpose irrigation project on the Godavari river, is facing significant controversies regarding its execution and design. Billed as the world's largest multi-stage irrigation project, it aims to provide irrigation to 16 lakh acres and drinking water to several districts. However, a judicial commission inquiry was launched after barrages suffered damages and developed cracks, raising allegations that they were built on permeable foundations. The project's cost escalated from ₹71,000 crore to over ₹1 lakh crore. Critics also question the shift in location from Tummidihatti to Medigadda, despite sufficient water availability at the former, and allege that decisions were made without proper cabinet consent.
- The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) in Telangana is a large-scale multi-purpose irrigation project on the Godavari river.
- The project is embroiled in controversies concerning its construction, particularly the alleged use of permeable foundations for barrages.
- A judicial commission was constituted to probe lapses after barrages suffered damages and cracks.
The Maldives inaugurated its new Velana International Airport terminal on July 26, a project costing $585 million, aimed at boosting tourism and economic growth. President Mohamed Muizzu called it a "pillar of economic independence" for the debt-laden nation. The World Bank and IMF project the new terminal will enable higher tourist arrivals and lead to 5.2% average economic growth. The project, a long-held dream, faced delays and cost overruns, with its funding coming from various international loans and the national budget. It is expected to enhance the country's appeal to affluent tourists and improve its global gateway image.
- The Maldives inaugurated its new Velana International Airport terminal to boost tourism and economic growth.
- The project, costing $585 million, is seen as crucial for the nation's economic independence amidst high external debt.
- International financial institutions anticipate the new terminal will significantly increase tourist arrivals and economic growth.
The Vizhinjam seaport is set to begin its Phase Two expansion next month, with completion targeted by 2028. This expansion aims to increase the port's container capacity to 4.5 million TEU annually, adding a break-bulk berth, a tanker berth, and a bunkering facility. While Phase 1, costing nearly ₹9,000 crore, involved financial participation from both Kerala and Union governments, Phase 2, estimated at ₹10,000 crore, will be entirely funded by Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd (APSEZ). The port, with its natural deep draft and advanced automation, is expected to significantly reduce India's reliance on foreign ports for transshipment and lower logistics costs.
- Vizhinjam seaport is commencing its Phase Two expansion, aiming for completion by 2028.
- The expansion will boost the port's container capacity to 4.5 million TEU annually and add new berths.
- Phase 2 funding of ₹10,000 crore will be entirely raised by Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd (APSEZ).
The second phase of expansion for the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala is expected to commence next month. This phase will involve developing additional berths, container yards, and enhancing cargo handling capabilities to accommodate larger vessels. The expansion is crucial for transforming Vizhinjam into a major transshipment hub, boosting trade, and creating employment opportunities. It aligns with India's maritime vision to strengthen its port infrastructure and enhance its position in global shipping routes.
- Phase Two expansion of Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala expected next month.
- The expansion involves additional berths, container yards, and enhanced cargo handling.
- It aims to transform Vizhinjam into a major transshipment hub.
The Telangana government has announced plans to install solar panels on all government offices across the state, aiming to promote renewable energy and reduce electricity consumption. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance energy efficiency and contribute to environmental sustainability. The project will be implemented in phases, starting with larger government buildings. This move is expected to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of government operations and serve as a model for wider adoption of solar energy.
- Telangana government plans to install solar panels on all government offices.
- The initiative aims to promote renewable energy and reduce electricity consumption.
- It is part of a broader strategy for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The first-ever freight train carrying essential goods has arrived in Kashmir Valley, marking a significant step towards improving connectivity and boosting the region's economy. The train, carrying essential commodities, will facilitate the transportation of perishable goods like fruits to other parts of India, benefiting local traders and farmers. This initiative is expected to reduce transportation costs and time, enhance market access for Kashmiri produce, and contribute to the overall economic development of the region, which has historically faced connectivity challenges.
- The first freight train has arrived in Kashmir Valley, improving connectivity.
- It will facilitate the transportation of essential goods and perishable items like fruits.
- The initiative aims to reduce transportation costs and time for local traders.
The Delhi government has ordered an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the Chandni Chowk Redevelopment Project. The 1.3-km stretch, inaugurated in 2021, aimed to transform the area into a pedestrian-friendly zone. Allegations include discrepancies in expenditure and quality of work. The probe seeks to ensure accountability and transparency in public works, especially those involving significant public funds and heritage conservation. This investigation highlights concerns about urban development projects and the need for stringent oversight.
- Delhi government has ordered an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the Chandni Chowk Redevelopment Project.
- The project, inaugurated in 2021, aimed to create a pedestrian-friendly zone.
- Allegations include discrepancies in expenditure and work quality.
Following heavy rainfall and widespread waterlogging in Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the government are engaged in a blame game over the state of civic services. AAP alleges that the Lieutenant Governor and BJP-led MCD are responsible for poor drainage and infrastructure, while the government attributes the issues to AAP's governance failures and lack of coordination. This political wrangling highlights the persistent challenges in urban infrastructure management and accountability, especially during monsoon seasons, affecting daily life and public safety in the capital.
- AAP and the government are blaming each other for severe waterlogging in Delhi.
- AAP attributes the issue to the Lieutenant Governor and BJP-led MCD's alleged failures.
- The government blames AAP for poor governance and lack of coordination.
The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented new technologies and strategies to enhance flood management across the state. These include a flood forecasting app, a flood management information system, and a flood relief management system. These tools aim to provide real-time data, improve coordination among agencies, and ensure timely relief distribution to affected populations. The initiative is part of a broader effort to mitigate the impact of recurrent floods, which often cause significant damage and displacement in the region.
- Uttar Pradesh government has introduced new digital tools for flood management.
- These tools include a flood forecasting app and comprehensive information systems.
- The aim is to improve real-time data, inter-agency coordination, and relief distribution.
The Indian government has extended the ₹10,900-crore PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme by two years, making its provisions effective until March 2028 instead of March 2026. This extension aims to further promote the adoption of electric vehicles, specifically targeting categories such as electric buses, e-ambulances, and e-trucks. While the overall scheme is extended, the terminal date for registered e-2 vehicles remains March 31, 2026, as per the gazette notification.
- The government has extended the PM E-DRIVE Scheme by two years, now valid until March 2028.
- The scheme, valued at ₹10,900 crore, aims to promote electric vehicles, including buses, ambulances, and trucks.
- The full name of the scheme is "PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE)".
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all stakeholders to work together to make India the world's third largest economy and scale up national productivity, speaking at the inauguration of Kartavya Bhavan 3. He highlighted India's key achievements and infrastructure landmarks like Kartavya Path, the new Parliament Building, and Bharat Mandapam, emphasizing that future policies for a developed India would be formulated in these new structures. Modi criticized the previous administrative setup operating from old colonial buildings with poor conditions and high rental costs, asserting his government's holistic vision for nation-building and development across the country.
- PM Modi called for collective efforts to elevate India to the world's third largest economy and boost national productivity.
- He inaugurated Kartavya Bhavan 3, emphasizing that these new infrastructure projects symbolize India's global vision and future policy formulation.
- Modi highlighted recent infrastructure achievements like Kartavya Path, the new Parliament Building, and Bharat Mandapam.
This year's Independence Day celebrations, organized by the Defence Ministry, will prominently feature "Operation Sindoor" as the central theme. Additionally, the invites will replace the Central Vista image with a sketch of the Chenab bridge, recognized as the world's highest railway bridge, recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam. Security measures for the event include anti-drone systems, radar near the Red Fort, and a ban on Chinese surveillance equipment. More guests are invited, necessitating tiered seating structures.
- Independence Day celebrations will feature "Operation Sindoor" as the central theme.
- The invites will showcase a sketch of the Chenab bridge, the world's highest railway bridge.
- Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) maker VinFast's first manufacturing plant in Thoothukudi. Spread across 408 acres at the SIPCOT industrial complex, the ₹16,000-crore investment is expected to create over 3,500 jobs and aims to be VinFast's largest export hub for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The plant, built in 17 months, will initially produce 50,000 vehicles annually, with potential to reach 1,50,000. This initiative highlights Tamil Nadu's manufacturing prowess, with 40% of all EVs sold in India manufactured in the state.
- VinFast, a Vietnamese EV maker, has opened its first Indian manufacturing plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
- The plant represents a ₹16,000-crore investment and is projected to create over 3,500 jobs.
- It aims to become VinFast's largest export hub for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
The commissioning of the 51.38 km railway track to Sairang, near Mizoram's capital Aizawl, is a significant step towards boosting regional connectivity and India's Act East Policy. This project, part of a broader plan to connect northeastern state capitals to the national rail network, will drastically reduce travel time and transportation costs for landlocked Mizoram. The Sairang railhead is strategically important for trade with ASEAN and East Asian countries, diplomatic engagement, and security cooperation, also serving as a transhipment point for goods from Myanmar's Sittwe Port. However, regional unrest and political instability have stalled other crucial connectivity projects.
- The new 51.38 km railway track to Sairang, Mizoram, has been commissioned, enhancing regional connectivity.
- This project is crucial for India's Act East Policy, aiming to link the northeast with Southeast Asia via rail and road.
- It will significantly reduce travel time and transportation costs for landlocked Mizoram, boosting tourism and trade.
Activists and farmers in Arunachal Pradesh are urging the Union government to stop using China's planned hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo as a pretext to push the proposed 11,500-megawatt Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). They argue that the SUMP, a ₹1.13-lakh-crore project, is expected to submerge 27 villages and displace over 1.5 lakh members of the Adi tribe, causing significant environmental and cultural damage. While China's Medog Hydropower Station raises downstream concerns, activists demand direct consultation with China for accurate project status instead of using it to justify a project where local chiefs are allegedly coerced into supporting.
- Activists and farmers oppose the proposed 11,500-megawatt Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh.
- They accuse the government of using China's Medog Hydropower Station on the Yarlung Tsangpo as a 'bogey' to push the SUMP.
- The SUMP is projected to displace over 1.5 lakh members of the Adi tribe and submerge 27 villages.
India Post is undergoing a significant modernization drive, phasing out 'Registered Post' to merge with Speed Post and upgrading its IT systems. A key initiative is the integration of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for booking Speed Post, ensuring digital payment acceptance across all post offices. The new Advanced Postal Technology (APT) system, already implemented in major metro cities like Delhi and Chennai, will introduce real-time tracking, customized services for bulk customers, electronic proof of delivery, and OTP-based authentication. Over 86,000 post offices, representing more than half the postal network, have already been upgraded to enhance user experience and service delivery.
- India Post is integrating UPI for digital payments and upgrading its IT infrastructure nationwide.
- The 'Registered Post' service is being phased out and merged with 'Speed Post' for streamlined operations.
- The new Advanced Postal Technology (APT) system offers real-time tracking, customized services, and digital authentication.