The Health Security se National Security cess seeks to tax machines used in pan masala and tobacco production to generate revenue and discourage consumption. While this approach simplifies administration in a fragmented industry, it raises concerns about evasion, informalisation, and weak linkage to public health outcomes. Without strong enforcement and complementary measures, the cess risks functioning more as a fiscal tool than an effective tobacco control or health policy instrument.
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The Supreme Court ordered a nationwide CBI probe into the ₹3,000 crore “digital arrest” scams targeting seniors. It allowed investigation without state consent, directed action against fraudsters and mule-account bankers, and pushed coordination with Interpol and AI-based tracking, tightening accountability for telecom and online intermediaries.
Click to View MoreThe MEA has launched Passport Seva Programme V2.0, a modernised passport system built using AI, cloud architecture, and microservices. It introduces ICAO-compliant ePassports with biometric chips to boost security, reduce fraud, support Digital India, and deliver faster, more efficient citizen services.
Click to View MoreMajor powers like Russia, China, and the US are reconsidering their own nuclear testing, which puts pressure on India's voluntary nuclear testing moratorium. This global security shift requires India to re-evaluate its position to maintain a "Credible Minimum Deterrence" against new threats.
Click to View MoreIndia and the U.S. strengthened their strategic ties with the 10-year “Framework for the U.S.-India Major Defence Partnership” signed in October 2025. The pact enhances cooperation in technology transfer, intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and defence production, reinforcing regional stability and a free, open Indo-Pacific.
Click to View MoreTechnology is transforming governance in India by promoting transparency and efficiency through initiatives like Digital India, Aadhaar, and UMANG. These tools enable faster, corruption-free services and data-driven policies. However, challenges such as the digital divide, cybersecurity risks, and data protection remain crucial for inclusive governance.
Click to View MoreThe Battle of Rezang La (18 November 1962) was a heroic last stand by 120 Indian soldiers, mostly from the Ahir community, of the Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, against a much larger Chinese force in Ladakh. Led by Major Shaitan Singh, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the defenders fought “to the last man and the last bullet,” protecting the strategic Chushul airbase and preventing further Chinese advance. Out of 120 soldiers, 114 were martyred, while Chinese casualties were much higher. The battle is remembered for its bravery, sacrifice, and patriotic spirit, with memorials like Ahir Dhamhonoring the soldiers’ legacy.
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India’s refugee dilemma reflects a tension between humanitarian traditions and national security concerns. Without a formal refugee law, policies are ad-hoc, with selective treatment, as seen in the CAA and Rohingya securitization. This raises debates on India’s commitment to equality, secularism, and its role in upholding international human rights.
Click to View MoreCountering extremism demands a balanced approach that combines strong security measures with social inclusion, education, and community engagement. Addressing root socio-economic grievances alongside proactive prevention and global cooperation can ensure long-term stability and protect India’s democratic and pluralistic values.
Click to View MoreTechnology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR-2025) aims to strengthen nuclear deterrence and expand drone warfare capabilities. The plan includes acquisitions of nuclear command-and-control infrastructure, radiation detection tools, and mobile decontamination units.
Click to View MoreIndia to create Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs) to unify the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Recommended by the Kargil and Shekatkar committees, ITCs aim to boost jointness, optimize resources, and tackle modern multi-domain threats. Despite inter-service challenges, ITCs are vital for strengthening national security.
Click to View MoreThe Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, proposes a ban on online money games, including skill-based ones like fantasy sports, to combat addiction, financial losses, and illicit activities. However, it also raises concerns about job losses and the rise of the illegal betting market, highlighting constitutional ambiguities.
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