Daily Bulletin

June 25, 202652 itemsPUBLISHED

“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.”

— Alan Watts

Polity & Governance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 52nd PRAGATI meeting, reviewing four key infrastructure projects valued at approximately ₹30,000 crore across the Road, Power, Industrial Corridor, and Metro Rail sectors. The Prime Minister directed ministries to leverage the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan for efficient planning and resolve pending issues. The meeting also addressed public grievances related to cybercrime, with a call for states to enable e-Zero FIR mechanisms, and reviewed the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, suggesting the involvement of NCC and Mera Yuva Bharat volunteers to enhance its reach.

The Department of Rural Development will organise a national workshop titled “Leveraging AI in Rural Development” on June 25, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The workshop aims to bring together stakeholders, including NITI Aayog and the IndiaAI Mission, to explore AI-driven solutions for rural transformation. Deliberations will focus on formulating a policy roadmap for AI integration in rural governance, service delivery, and livelihood empowerment.

The Department of Rural Development held an inter-ministerial consultation to finalise the convergence framework for the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, which is set to be effective from July 1, 2026. The framework establishes the Viksit Gram Panchayat Plan (VGPP), prepared with community participation, as the primary instrument for local-level planning. This 'Single Plan – Multi Funding' approach empowers Gram Panchayats to integrate resources from various schemes to align with locally identified priorities.

The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, released the book VIP Culture in India: Power, Privilege and the Distance from Democracy at Uprashtrapati Bhavan. Authored by former Rajya Sabha Member Shri Nabam Rebia and co-authored by Shri Sandeep Kumar, the book explores the core of democratic governance. The Vice-President highlighted that its themes align with the Prime Minister's vision of citizen-centric governance.

The Ministry of Rural Development has approved 96 road works in Tripura under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)-IV for the fiscal year 2026-27. The projects, sanctioned at an estimated cost of ₹211.71 crore, will cover a total length of 163.872 km. This initiative is set to provide all-weather road connectivity for the first time to 96 habitations, aiming to improve access to essential services.

The Press Information Bureau's (PIB) Fact Check Unit has officially refuted a viral video claiming the government would provide free air conditioners to citizens through their Aadhaar cards. The government clarified that the claim is entirely false and cautioned the public against sharing such misinformation as part of its ongoing efforts to combat fake news.

The Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi held a consultative meeting with representatives of political parties regarding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The discussion centered on the schedule and modalities of the revision process, a statutory exercise to ensure an accurate and inclusive voter list for future elections.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has formally clarified that an Indian passport is a travel document and not definitive proof of citizenship, stating its primary function is to attest to a citizen's nationality while abroad. This clarification has reignited a national debate on the documentary evidence required to establish Indian nationality for legal and administrative purposes.

The Union government has declined to provide a copy of the official order directing the blocking of the X social media handle of the Centre for Justice and Peace (CJP). Appearing before a government review committee, Mr. Abhijeet Dipke was informed that the blocking order is a 'confidential' document, raising concerns about transparency in content moderation.

The rules under the new Telecommunications Act, 2023 have officially come into force, marking a major regulatory overhaul for India's telecom sector. This initiates a fundamental shift from the previous licence-based regime to a streamlined authorisation-based system for establishing and operating telecommunication networks and services.

The Supreme Court of India has declined to entertain a plea from a medical student under the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) category seeking a reduction in tuition fees at a private college. The Court observed that it cannot compel private, unaided colleges to adopt a fee structure on par with government institutions.

The Election Commission of India is set to apply its 'two-wing test' to determine the legitimate faction of the Trinamool Congress party amid an internal dispute. The procedure will adjudicate the conflict between a group led by former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and another by Ritabrata Banerjee.

An under-construction warehouse in Kolkata collapsed, resulting in the death of five people, with the state's Chief Minister citing a potential design flaw as the preliminary cause. West Bengal's Urban Development and Health Ministers visited the site to supervise the ongoing rescue operations.

Following a recent fire in Lucknow's Aliganj area, a ground survey revealed that numerous coaching centres continue to operate in unsafe buildings lacking adequate fire safety measures. The investigation found institutes functioning from cramped premises with single exits, indicating a significant lapse in the enforcement of safety regulations by local municipal bodies. This situation underscores the persistent governance challenges in ensuring public safety in densely populated urban educational hubs.

Economy

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) concluded the first cohort of its BHARATI programme, an initiative to accelerate agri-food export innovation. The programme trained 100 startups from 22 states and 2 Union Territories to help meet India's target of USD 50 billion in APEDA-scheduled product exports by 2030. Notable successes from the cohort include the export of 37 MT of GI-tagged Jardalu mangoes to Dubai and the first-ever sea shipment of millet-based foods to New Zealand.

The Ministry of Coal organised a BRICS side event on Clean Coal Technologies, highlighting India's commitment to gasifying 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030. Officials stated that coal gasification is crucial for producing syngas for value-added products like methanol and hydrogen, thereby reducing import dependence. The event served as a platform for BRICS nations to exchange knowledge on cleaner utilisation of coal for energy security.

The Office of the Controller of Communication Accounts for Maharashtra & Goa conducted a Telecom Outreach Programme in Aurangabad. It was noted that the circle is the second largest in the country for revenue collection from telecom services, contributing approximately ₹2,380 crores in non-tax revenue from License Fees and Spectrum Usage Charges during the financial year 2025-26.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued amendment directions to its framework on 'Limiting Customer Liability in Unauthorised Electronic Banking Transactions'. The updated guidelines refine the rules protecting customers from financial losses arising from fraudulent digital transactions by specifying the extent of a customer's liability in various scenarios, thereby strengthening consumer protection.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has amended the regulatory framework for Non-Banking Financial Companies, revising the methodology for identifying NBFCs in the Upper Layer (NBFC-UL). The new rules clarify the inclusion of Government-owned NBFCs in this category and update the 'Credit/Investment Concentration Norms' applicable to them to enhance prudential oversight.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued revised instructions on the 'Net Open Position' for banks, a key prudential measure that limits the foreign exchange risk they can carry. These updated directives aim to strengthen the regulatory framework for managing currency risk within the banking sector.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a draft ‘Guidance on Regulatory Principles for Model Risk Management’ for stakeholder feedback. The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive framework for financial institutions to manage risks associated with their use of analytical and statistical models for decision-making, thereby enhancing governance, validation, and operational resilience.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced a relaxation in certification requirements for Persons Associated with Investment Advice who are engaged in sales and other non-core services. This measure, part of its 'Ease of Doing Business' initiative, is intended to streamline compliance for entities in the investment advisory sector.

The Indian Rupee appreciated by eight paise against the US dollar, closing at a rate of 94.66 on June 24, 2026. In a related development, global crude oil prices reached their lowest levels in nearly four months, a key indicator that could positively impact India's import bill.

The Ministry of Textiles concluded its "Textiles Summit 2026" by setting a strategic goal to achieve USD 100 billion in textile exports by 2030. The summit's recommendations, which will form a National Textile Export Roadmap, emphasized utilizing Free Trade Agreements, diversifying into man-made fibres, and promoting sustainability through digital product passports and recycling systems.

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has eliminated early completion incentives for National Highway projects in hilly regions to prioritize safety over speed. MoRTH has also mandated new safety protocols, including monsoon stability checks and detailed geological surveys, to mitigate risks of landslides and ensure road durability.

A court in the United Kingdom has ordered fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi to pay approximately ₹100 crore to the Bank of India (BoI) in a loan recovery case. The judgment pertains to a loan extended to a Dubai-based company, for which Mr. Modi had provided a personal guarantee of repayment.

Science & Technology

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) to establish a Centre of Excellence in Advanced Communication Technologies. Located at the IITH campus, the centre will focus on indigenous research in areas such as 6G, quantum communications, and AI-enabled networks. This is the fourth such centre established by C-DOT to bolster India's self-reliance in the telecom sector.

The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has advanced medicine safety standards through two key initiatives. It organised a national conference to facilitate the implementation of new, exclusive monographs for blood and blood components in the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) 2026. Concurrently, the IPC conducted a hands-on training programme for drug analysts on testing for toxic contaminants like Ethylene Glycol in oral liquid preparations, supporting a mandatory amendment to IP–2022.

During the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies meeting in Bengaluru, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh proposed the creation of a 'BRICS Space Economy', urging member nations to move from coordination to co-creation. Hosted by ISRO under India's BRICS Chairship 2026, the meeting reviewed progress on the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC). Discussions also covered advancing a proposed BRICS Space Council and expanding cooperation in disaster management and Earth observation.

An Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based automated driving test track was inaugurated at the Bhuj Regional Transport Office in Gujarat. The system is designed to conduct driving tests without human intervention, aiming to ensure greater transparency and accuracy in skill evaluation, improve driver licensing quality, and enhance road safety.

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Environment

The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), in collaboration with the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), is expanding its Urban River Management Plans (URMPs) to cover 60 cities across the Ganga Basin. As part of the Namami Gange Programme, the initiative is also implementing on-ground pilot projects, such as in Kanpur, to create scalable models for river-sensitive urban development.

A new study by the US-based NGO Climate Central has revealed a significant global increase in the frequency of 'dangerous humid heat days'. The report, published on June 24, 2026, attributes this trend primarily to the human-induced climate crisis, underscoring the growing public health risks associated with extreme heat and high humidity.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the advance of the Southwest Monsoon into parts of Gujarat, reaching Surat on June 24, 2026. This year's arrival is delayed compared to the normal date of June 15, with conditions favourable for its further advance into more parts of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

Heavy rainfall has triggered severe flash floods across several parts of Arunachal Pradesh, leading authorities in neighbouring Assam to issue a high alert for downstream areas. According to initial official reports, at least three people are unaccounted for in Arunachal Pradesh as a direct consequence of the flooding. The event highlights the vulnerability of India's northeastern states to extreme weather events during the monsoon season.

International Relations

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, is scheduled to visit London from June 25-27, 2026, for high-level meetings ahead of the implementation of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The CETA and the accompanying Double Contribution Convention (DCC) are set to enter into force on July 15, 2026. The DCC is designed to create a streamlined mechanism to address dual social security contribution requirements for eligible temporary workers, supporting greater professional mobility.

Indian Naval Ships Udaygiri and Kavaratti departed from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, after completing a port call as part of the Eastern Fleet's operational deployment. The visit included professional interactions and bilateral exercises with the Vietnam People's Navy. This engagement reinforces the Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations and aligns with India's 'Act East Policy' and the MAHASAGAR vision.

The Ministry of External Affairs has formally welcomed Queen Máxima of the Netherlands on her official visit to India in her capacity as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Financial Inclusion and Development. The visit is expected to strengthen bilateral cooperation, with a focus on inclusive finance and digital public infrastructure.

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The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that an Air India flight from Delhi to Amritsar briefly entered Pakistani airspace on June 22nd. The procedural deviation was necessitated by an Air Traffic Control instruction to hold its approach due to a runway inspection, ensuring operational safety.

The 16th BRICS National Security Advisers' Meeting was convened to discuss pressing global and regional security issues. The agenda focused on enhancing cooperation in counter-terrorism, addressing cyber threats, and formulating joint responses to emerging challenges, reinforcing the commitment of BRICS nations to a collective security architecture.

A recently published book reveals that former United States President Donald Trump was convinced that India imposed tariffs as high as 175% on American goods. This perception of unfair trade practices reportedly influenced his administration's decision to impose 25% tariffs on certain Indian products.

The Government of India has reissued a travel advisory cautioning its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran. The advisory is being maintained as a precautionary measure despite an improving situation in the region, following a conflict that began on February 28.

The President of Iran has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, scheduled to be held from July 5 to July 9. The Government of India is currently deliberating on the invitation and has not yet announced its decision regarding representation at the event.

India and the United States are engaged in ongoing trade negotiations, with a crucial deadline of July 24 approaching for the potential imposition of new tariffs. The discussions are aimed at resolving several outstanding bilateral trade disputes, the complexity of which has been heightened by recent court rulings. Both nations are seeking a breakthrough to avert further trade friction and bolster their economic partnership.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar held discussions with his South Korean counterpart, Mr. Cho Hyun, to review and strengthen bilateral ties. Dr. Jaishankar underscored the significance of the India-South Korea partnership in a complex global environment, calling for a more forward-looking relationship to navigate contemporary challenges.

Social Issues

The Goa Postal Division of the Department of Posts released a Special Cancellation on June 24, 2026, to commemorate the traditional Goan monsoon festival of São João. Unveiled at the Panaji Philatelic Bureau, the cancellation's design features elements symbolic of the festival, such as a traditional well and the floral 'Kopel'. This philatelic initiative aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Goa.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports launched the first seven-day Vande Mataram Camp at Brainware University, Kolkata, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song. Organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) from June 24th to 30th, the camp hosts 150 youth from six states and UTs to foster national integration under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme.

A delegation of over 50 Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) met with the Delhi Health Minister to address prolonged delays in internship allotments and significant stipend disparities. The graduates, who have cleared the mandatory screening test, face challenges in commencing their compulsory one-year internship in Delhi's government hospitals.

Maharashtra has detected 6,111 new cases of tuberculosis (TB) in the first 35 days of the central government's '100-Day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan'. To bolster the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, the state has deployed 917 advanced diagnostic machines and identified 11,091 villages as high-risk areas using an AI-based system.

The Maharashtra government is considering a new measure to curb child marriage by studying a policy implemented in Rajasthan. State authorities have formally contacted their Rajasthani counterparts to understand the mandate of printing the dates of birth of both the bride and groom on wedding invitation cards. This initiative is intended to enhance transparency and provide a direct mechanism for officials to verify adherence to the legal age of marriage.

Defence & Security

The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has supplied the entire 5,700 tonnes of special defence-grade DMR 249A steel for three new Indian Navy warships. The vessels—the advanced stealth frigate INS Dunagiri, the anti-submarine craft INS Agray, and the survey vessel INS Sanshodhak—were commissioned on June 21, 2026. This supply from SAIL's plants reinforces the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative in defence manufacturing.

Awards & Honours

The Family Welfare Centre at the Group Centre, CRPF, Pune, has won the Best Family Welfare Centre Trophy for the third consecutive year among all CRPF establishments nationwide. The award was presented by the Director General, CRPF, in New Delhi on June 24, 2026, during the 31st CWA Raising Day Celebration. Additionally, Smt. Ujjawala Bhausaheb Devarkar from the Pune centre received the Second Prize for Best FWC Worker.

Renowned actor and scientist Dr. Anil Kumar Rastogi has been conferred with the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honours. The award recognises his distinguished and exceptional contributions to the fields of both arts and sciences.

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