The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved four new semiconductor projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) framework, marking a significant boost to the nation’s semiconductor ecosystem. This decision adds to six previously approved projects currently progressing at various stages.

The new approvals include the country’s first commercial compound semiconductor fabrication facility and an advanced glass-based substrate packaging unit. These projects are expected to support India’s expanding chip design capabilities, which are currently aided by government-backed design infrastructure across 278 academic institutions and 72 startups.

Given the rising demand for semiconductors in sectors such as telecommunications, automotive, data centers, consumer electronics, and industrial electronics, the new projects will play a pivotal role in advancing the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative focused on self-reliance.

The approved proposals come from SiCSem Private Limited, Continental Device India Private Limited (CDIL), 3D Glass Solutions Inc., and Advanced System in Package (ASIP) Technologies. Collectively, these units represent an investment of around $560 million and are projected to generate employment for 2,034 skilled workers, while also stimulating indirect job creation within the electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

With these additions, the total number of ISM-approved projects reaches ten, involving investments nearing $19.5 billion USD across six states. The new facilities are geographically spread: SiCSem and 3D Glass are based in Info Valley, Bhubaneswar, Odisha; CDIL operates in Punjab; and ASIP is located in Andhra Pradesh.

SiCSem, partnering with UK-based Clas-SiC Wafer Fab Ltd., will develop an integrated Silicon Carbide (SiC) Compound Semiconductor fabrication unit capable of producing 60,000 wafers annually and packaging 96 million units. These components will cater to diverse sectors including defense, missiles, electric vehicles, railways, fast chargers, data centers, consumer appliances, and solar inverters.

3D Glass Solutions Inc. will establish an advanced packaging and embedded glass substrate manufacturing unit in Odisha. Employing cutting-edge technology such as glass interposers, silicon bridges, and 3D Heterogeneous Integration modules, the facility aims to produce 69,600 glass panel substrates, 50 million assembled units, and 13,200 3DHI modules annually. These products are crucial for defense, high-performance computing, AI, automotive, photonics, and optics applications.

During a joint press briefing in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly welcomed Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and announced that India and the Philippines have decided to elevate their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. The announcement came during President Marcos Jr’s official five-day state visit to India and coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

PM Modi emphasized that India and the Philippines are “friends by choice and partners by destiny,” citing shared values that span from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. He praised the deep cultural ties that predate modern diplomacy, referring to the Filipino adaptation of the Ramayana, Maharadia Lawana, as living proof of ancient connections.

One of the highlights of the bilateral talks was enhanced cooperation on security and defense. PM Modi acknowledged the Philippines’ strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and thanked the country for standing with India in its fight against terrorism. He also welcomed Manila’s decision to offer visa-free entry to Indian tourists. In return, India will provide free e-visas to Filipinos and aims to launch direct flights between Delhi and Manila later this year.

PM Modi announced new Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in the Philippines, along with support for a sovereign data cloud infrastructure. He added that collaboration would expand into space exploration, as both countries signed an agreement in this domain. Scientific research partnerships have also been intensified, covering areas such as AI, virology, and additive manufacturing.

On the trade front, PM Modi revealed that bilateral trade has exceeded $3 billion and both countries have committed to negotiating a Bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement to further deepen economic engagement. India also pledged to support the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN.

Modi concluded by affirming India’s commitment to peace and a rules-based Indo-Pacific order, underlining freedom of navigation and cooperation in maritime security as critical goals. Earlier in the day, President Marcos Jr was formally welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhavan with a ceremonial reception, marking the beginning of a new chapter in India-Philippines relations.

The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, valued at $1.5 billion, represents a technological milestone as the world’s first Earth observation satellite using dual-frequency Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). It is designed to deliver precise, real-time data on environmental changes, natural disasters, and the planet’s evolving surface.

NISAR will carry both NASA’s L-band and ISRO’s S-band radar systems, integrated on a specially designed spacecraft bus provided by ISRO. A standout feature of the mission is the 12-meter unfurlable mesh reflector antenna developed by NASA, enabling wide-swath, high-resolution imaging using SweepSAR technology.

The satellite, weighing 2,392 kilograms, will be launched into a sun-synchronous orbit at 740 kilometers above Earth aboard India’s GSLV-F16 rocket. It will scan the planet’s surface every 12 days, covering a swath of 242 kilometers, and will function 24×7 regardless of weather conditions or lighting.

Engineered for continuous operation, NISAR will detect phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, glacial movements, and groundwater changes. It will be a crucial tool for global disaster preparedness and long-term climate change monitoring.

The mission embodies deep cooperation between India and the United States. NASA has contributed the L-band radar system, a high-rate telecommunication subsystem, GPS receivers, and the deployable antenna. ISRO has delivered the S-band payload, the satellite’s structural bus, the launch vehicle, and all mission logistics.

NISAR is expected to strengthen global capabilities in managing natural hazards, enabling real-time policy response, scientific research, and environmental sustainability efforts. It is a testament to the fusion of space technology, international cooperation, and scientific ambition.

Addressing the Upper House during the debate on Operation Sindoor, Singh stated that forensic analysis had conclusively matched the weapons recovered from the encounter site with those used in the Pahalgam attack. According to Singh, the coordinated operation led to the elimination of all three militants, reinforcing the government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.

The terrorists, identified as operatives of The Resistance Front (TRF), were killed in a joint mission involving the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force, and Jammu & Kashmir Police. Codenamed Operation Mahadev, the encounter was part of the broader counterterrorism campaign under Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Singh praised the synergy and professionalism demonstrated by the security forces, highlighting that the mission was carried out with surgical precision and without any civilian casualties. The government’s approach, he affirmed, is guided by principles of ethical warfare and strategic deterrence.

Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha, echoed the Defence Minister’s statement and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to deliver justice for the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Shah underscored the importance of Operation Sindoor as a calibrated and justified response to cross-border terrorism.

The announcement brought a sense of closure to families impacted by the tragedy and marked a significant milestone in India’s fight against terrorism. The successful elimination of the perpetrators was seen as a necessary step in restoring national confidence and upholding India’s sovereignty.

Singh emphasized that if Pakistan attempts any future misadventure, the response from India would be even more forceful. His remarks reflected a shift in India’s strategic posture, characterized by decisive action and refusal to tolerate proxy terror attacks.

During the ongoing debate, Opposition members demanded transparency regarding operational details and the broader diplomatic implications. Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien raised concerns about lack of disclosure, but his point of order was dismissed by the Deputy Speaker.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge led the Opposition’s formal critique, raising questions about military casualties and the decision to allow India’s national cricket team to participate in the Asia Cup alongside Pakistan.

Despite political differences, the ruling government’s message remained consistent: national security will not be compromised. India’s counterterrorism operations are now defined by clarity of intent, ethical precision, and the assertion of sovereign rights.

The debate over Operation Sindoor is expected to continue in both Houses, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to address the matter, outlining the strategic rationale, outcomes, and long-term impact of India’s renewed national security doctrine.

India’s transformation from a state of reactive diplomacy to proactive deterrence signals a new era in its approach to security. With Operation Mahadev as a case in point, the nation has demonstrated that it will not remain passive in the face of aggression. The narrative has shifted — India now answers terrorism not with silence, but with strength.

On July 28, renowned Baloch human rights advocate Mir Yar Baloch addressed a heartfelt letter to Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The message, arriving just hours before a scheduled debate on Operation Sindoor in Parliament, commended the Indian government and citizens for their unified stance against terrorism fueled by Pakistan.

Writing on behalf of the 60 million citizens of the Republic of Balochistan, Baloch extended warm solidarity to India’s 1.4 billion people. He lauded India’s firm position against Pakistan-backed cross-border attacks and praised the decision of opposition parties to align with the government and military during a pivotal national moment.

Baloch honored the Indian Armed Forces for their bravery and professionalism, appreciated the media’s responsible coverage, and recognized the strength of national unity in countering both physical and psychological warfare initiated by Pakistan.

He emphasized the long-standing relationship between India and Balochistan, urging the Indian Parliament to acknowledge these historic bonds that reflect a shared vision and legacy. Baloch’s letter highlighted that following the temporary halt in Operation Sindoor, Pakistan’s military forces intensified their crackdown on civilians in Balochistan. He described this violence as retaliatory, targeting those who have shown support for India.

Framing India as a symbol of resistance to regional oppression, the letter emphasized that Balochistan has consistently looked to India for moral leadership. It encouraged Indian leadership to respond with principled solidarity, especially during key events like Operation Sindoor.

Mir Yar Baloch proposed strategic collaborations, including curbing Pakistan’s access to the Arabian Sea via Gwadar and disrupting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which he identified as a security threat to India. He also stressed Balochistan’s potential to offer India direct trade access to Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Referencing the Hinglaj Mata Mandir—one of Hinduism’s sacred Shakti Peethas located in Balochistan—he underlined how the Baloch people have protected cultural and religious diversity despite increasing regional radicalization.

Baloch also provided historical context, detailing Balochistan’s status as an independent state until its forced annexation by Pakistan in 1948. Since then, the population has suffered systemic violence and cultural erasure, though they continue to uphold democratic and secular ideals.

He concluded by urging Speaker Om Birla to voice support for Balochistan’s freedom during the parliamentary debate, aligning with India’s global message of inclusivity—Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or “the world is one family.”

India is treading carefully in its ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, influenced by recent challenges other Asian nations have faced while working with the US under Donald Trump’s administration. One example is the fallout from the US-Japan agreement, which has become a cautionary tale due to major disagreements in interpreting its terms. Meanwhile, deals announced with Indonesia and Vietnam have yet to be finalized, raising further concerns.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal shared updates over the weekend, stating that talks with both the US and Oman have made significant progress. American trade representatives are expected to arrive in India later in August to continue discussions. Goyal emphasized that India will not rush into agreements and will place its economic interests above meeting external deadlines.

Trump has imposed an August 1 deadline, after which countries failing to secure a deal with the US could face increased tariffs. Despite this, India has not been included on the list of nations receiving these warning letters. The US President also suggested that a deal with India is on the horizon.

India’s hesitation is partly fueled by how the Japan-US trade deal has unfolded. Reports highlight that while the US claims Japan agreed to invest in American infrastructure, with 90% of the profits going to local US taxpayers, Japanese officials argue that no such formal deal exists. They maintain that profits from the proposed $550 million investment should reflect the financial contributions of both nations. This disconnect has made India wary of accepting premature declarations from the US without signed agreements.

Similar issues have emerged in Southeast Asia. Trump declared a trade deal with Indonesia after speaking with President Prabowo Subianto, but no formal agreement has been signed. Although both nations released a joint framework outlining the deal, experts warn that without legal backing, the arrangement could face setbacks.

Vietnam, too, has not ratified duty rates reportedly agreed upon with the US. Concerns are growing that new tariffs could reduce Vietnam’s exports to the US by one-third. Last year, the country exported goods worth $120 billion to the US, and tariffs between 20% to 40% could lead to losses of up to $37 billion, particularly affecting sectors like electronics, apparel, and machinery.

India is clearly observing these developments, aiming to avoid similar pitfalls and ensure that any future deal secures long-term benefits without compromising national priorities.

Airbus and Rolls-Royce have landed multi-billion-dollar contracts totaling nearly $6.5 billion to supply aircraft and advanced engines to Indian carriers, a breakthrough commercial result of the newly signed India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This development comes just a day after the landmark pact was finalized on July 24, 2025, showcasing early benefits of reduced trade barriers and enhanced economic cooperation.

The agreement, which slashes the average tariff on UK exports to India from 15% to just 3%, immediately unlocked business opportunities across sectors. European aviation leader Airbus and British engineering icon Rolls-Royce will jointly deliver state-of-the-art aircraft and Trent XWB engines, empowering India’s fast-growing aviation market while supporting thousands of manufacturing jobs in the UK.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the agreement as a transformative moment for both economies, highlighting how it reduces business costs and drives cross-border investments. Already, over two dozen UK-based firms—including Indian-founded Carbon Clean and med-tech innovator Occuity—have announced major commercial ventures in India as a direct result of the deal.

The aerospace contracts aim to boost air connectivity across India and align with the country’s vision to modernize its aviation network. Rolls-Royce engines are expected to power fuel-efficient fleets, aligning with global sustainability goals. This collaboration also sets the stage for future industrial partnerships and technology sharing between the two nations.

But the benefits extend beyond aviation. The FTA opens up duty-free access for Indian exporters of spices, seafood, and turmeric, offering a boost to Indian farmers, while also safeguarding sensitive agricultural sectors in the UK. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the deal as a “historic achievement” that will lower prices for UK consumers, especially on clothing and shoes, while lifting wages and living standards.

Looking ahead, the FTA aims to double two-way trade to $120 billion by 2030, creating tens of thousands of new jobs across sectors such as clean energy, agri-tech, medical devices, and advanced manufacturing. The deal represents a strategic leap in India-UK relations, cementing a long-term alliance built on mutual growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.

Britain and India have officially entered into a transformative free trade agreement during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UK, marking a milestone in both nations’ economic relations. This accord, which follows three years of on-and-off negotiations, comes as the world grapples with shifting trade dynamics influenced by tariff disputes beyond their borders.

The agreement is widely seen as a pivotal step for both economies, offering significant opportunities for growthand collaboration. By substantially lowering tariffs on a wide range of products including textiles, whisky, cars, and other industrial goods, the deal is poised to drive more competitive pricing and greater consumer choice. British whisky and gin producers, for instance, will find the Indian market more accessible as import duties steadily decline, while Indian manufacturers stand to benefit from easier entry into British markets.

A key element of the agreement involves duty-free or lower-duty access for the vast majority of Indian exports such as textiles, jewelry, essential engineering goods, and agricultural produce. Sectors like leather, carpets, and marine products, which previously faced high barriers, are now positioned to see a rise in exports. Likewise, the UK can now bring in a broader array of its top exports, including aerospace components, electrical machinery, specialized medical devices, and premium beverages, at significantly lower tariffs.

Beyond goods, the trade pact paves the way for deeper cooperation in services, digital trade, and investments. Both governments have agreed to facilitate smoother movement for professionals and enhance business-to-business connections. Indian professionals working in the UK will see added financial benefits through exemptions in social security contributions, offering meaningful savings for both employees and companies.

This landmark trade alliance stands as a showcase for India’s growing influence in setting global trade standards, while the UK demonstrates its ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with emerging economies in the Indo-Pacific. As Britain repositions itself following its exit from the European Union, the partnership with India signifies a renewed commitment to dynamic, globally-minded trade strategies.

Ultimately, the agreement opens new doors for businesses and individuals, encouraging innovation, supporting job creation, and enabling access to a diverse range of high-quality goods and services. The enhanced partnership is set to boost prosperity and resilience for both countries in an increasingly interconnected world.

On July 23, 2025, India and China held talks in New Delhi to evaluate the current conditions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. This meeting, part of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC), served to prepare for the upcoming Special Representatives (SR) dialogue regarding the longstanding border issue.

During the discussions, both nations expressed satisfaction with the relatively peaceful conditions across the LAC, which have gradually helped stabilize overall bilateral relations. India’s National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, and China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, will lead the next round of SR talks, which are expected to be hosted in India later this year. The last session took place in Beijing in December 2024.

According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, both sides have agreed to maintain consistent diplomatic and military communication through established channels. They also revisited measures proposed during the 23rd SR dialogue to ensure effective border control and long-term peace.

Representing India at the WMCC was Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary of the East Asia Division, while China was represented by Hong Liang, Director General of the Department of Boundary and Oceanic Affairs. Hong also met with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

Efforts to normalize India-China ties have been underway since the disengagement of military troops from conflict zones in October 2024. However, a full de-escalation is still pending, with approximately 50,000 to 60,000 soldiers from each side remaining deployed near the LAC.

The military standoff had originally erupted in May 2020, leading to a deadly confrontation in the Galwan Valley in June of that year, severely straining ties. Peace-building initiatives resumed following an agreement in October 2024 to disengage from the Demchok and Depsang regions.

The decision to reactivate diplomatic dialogue mechanisms stemmed from a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024, shortly after the disengagement accord was signed.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s UK visit, India and Britain will formally sign a long-awaited free trade agreement (FTA) on Thursday, officials confirmed. The landmark deal, which was finalized in May after nearly three years of intermittent discussions, aims to boost economic exchange by easing tariff restrictions on key goods.

As per Indian officials, New Delhi will cut import duties on British Scotch whisky, automobiles, and selected food items. In return, the UK will provide duty-free access to Indian-made electric vehicles, textiles, and a broad range of other goods. The agreement is currently undergoing legal review and will become operational once ratified by the British Parliament and India’s federal cabinet, a process expected to be completed within a year.

Vikram Misri, India’s Foreign Secretary, emphasized the deal’s importance in a press briefing on Tuesday, stating that the legal formalities were almost complete. Trade Minister Piyush Goyal will accompany Modi for the official signing ceremony during the Prime Minister’s four-day diplomatic visit to the UK and Maldives. This will be Modi’s fourth visit to the UK since assuming office in 2014.

India’s bilateral trade with the UK stood at approximately $55 billion in the 2023–24 fiscal year. Britain has emerged as India’s sixth-largest investor with cumulative investments reaching nearly $36 billion. Indian businesses have also established a strong footprint in the UK, with around 1,000 companies employing over 100,000 workers and investing about $20 billion.

According to the British government, tariffs on Scotch whisky will be immediately reduced to 75% from the current 150%, with a gradual decrease to 40% over the next ten years. For British automobiles, India will slash tariffs to 10% from 100%, under a controlled quota system that will be progressively relaxed.

Meanwhile, Indian producers, particularly in the electric and hybrid vehicle segments, are set to gain from increased access to the UK market, also regulated through a quota-based system. Commerce ministry officials said nearly 99% of Indian exports will face zero duties under this deal, with significant benefits for textiles, marine products, footwear, and engineering sectors.

Ajay Sahai, Director General of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations, hailed the FTA as a gateway for Indian exporters to strengthen their presence in one of the world’s top markets.