G20 Summit: PM Modi Proposes Six-Point Agenda and New Trilateral Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was actively involved in the G20 Summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa. During his participation, he put forth a comprehensive six-point agenda, emphasizing crucial areas such as healthcare, knowledge sharing, and the global fight against drugs. A significant outcome of the summit for India was the announcement of a new trilateral technology and innovation partnership involving India, Australia, and Canada. This initiative aims to foster collaboration in advanced technological domains. Furthermore, PM Modi engaged in bilateral discussions on the sidelines, including a meeting with French President Macron, where both leaders lauded the strong India-France ties. Canadian Prime Minister also met with PM Modi, indicating efforts to rebuild trade relations between India and Canada.
Implementation of New Labour Codes Amidst Union Opposition
India has moved forward with the implementation of new labor codes, a significant reform consolidating 29 complex and outdated labor legislations into four integrated codes. These reforms are designed to streamline compliance, enhance worker protection, and promote a business-friendly environment, extending social security benefits to unorganized, gig, and platform workers. However, these new codes have met with strong opposition from Indian trade unions, which have called for nationwide demonstrations demanding their withdrawal.
Critical Minerals Initiative and Enhanced Seaport Security
Amidst growing global demand and reliance on imports, particularly from China, India is actively seeking a critical minerals initiative. Discussions are underway regarding royalty rationalization for critical minerals to boost domestic exploration and reduce import dependence, especially for vital components needed for green technologies like EV batteries. In a move to bolster national security, the Central Government has officially designated the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the new safety regulator for over 250 major and minor seaports across India. This empowers the CISF to regulate, oversee, and enforce security standards across the country's maritime facilities.
Tragic Tejas Jet Crash in Dubai and National Security Discussions
In a somber development, an Indian Tejas fighter jet crashed during a demonstration at the Dubai Airshow, tragically resulting in the death of the pilot. The Indian Air Force paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen Wing Commander, acknowledging his bravery. On the national security front, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, speaking at an event marking the 17th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, remarked on 'Operation Sindoor,' a military action targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan, suggesting such decisive actions deter future attacks. Separately, investigations continue into a recent Delhi blast, with a suspect revealing details about supply and funding, and arrests made in connection with a "white collar" terror module in Jammu and Kashmir.
Other Key Developments
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is celebrating its 175th Foundation Year, marked by an international seminar titled "Unearthing the Past, Shaping the Future." A study by MOSPI highlighted persistent digital divide patterns across various demographics in India. Furthermore, the CJI-designate, Justice Surya Kant, has prioritized addressing the substantial backlog of 90,000 cases in the Supreme Court. In sports, Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen reached the men's singles final of the Australian Open, while the Indian Men's Hockey Team is set to compete in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.