On July 24, 2025, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the United Kingdom, India and the U.K. signed a Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and cooperation. The deal, which was initially announced in May 2025 after over three years of negotiations, was signed by Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and U.K. Trade Minister Jonathan Reynolds. This agreement signifies a strategic commitment between the two nations, seeking to replace the existing cooperation framework 'Roadmap 2030' with 'India-U.K. Vision 2035.'

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

• Economic Benefits: PM Modi, in his remarks, conveyed that the CETA would primarily benefit Indian farmers, the MSME sector, the jewelry and footwear industries, and seafood, engineering goods sectors. In return, British products like medical devices and aerospace components would have reduced tariffs in India.

• Construction of the Agreement: U.K. Trade Minister Jonathan Reynolds emphasized the deal as the largest trade agreement for Britain post-Brexit and the most favorable trade arrangement that India has ever proposed to any nation.

• Reciprocal Double Contributions Convention (DCC): A key component linked to the CETA is the DCC that aims to streamline social contribution payments for employers and employees working across borders. This arrangement, which extends the previous one-year exemption period to three years, is politically significant in Britain.

• Vision 2035 Framework: The newly established framework includes various priorities such as economic growth, job creation, technological advancement, climate initiatives, and defense and security collaboration. Regular bilateral interactions between the two Prime Ministers and annual reviews of progress will be set in place.

• Global Cooperation: India and the U.K. have committed to reforming multilateralism and enhancing their roles in significant international organizations including the United Nations, WTO, and IMF. The U.K. supports India's bid for a permanent seat in the U.N. Security Council.

• Counterterrorism Efforts: PM Modi reiterated the necessity of mutual cooperation in combating terrorism and addressing the activities of economic offenders. He mentioned past incidents, particularly the April 22 Pahalgam attack, emphasizing the importance of a unified stand against terrorism.

• Response to Trade Concerns: While several industry bodies praised the trade agreement, concerns were expressed regarding inadequate government responses to specific issues like minimum import price and non-tariff barriers on alcoholic beverages. The reduction in tariffs on U.K. whiskey and gin is noted as a significant adjustment in bilateral trade.

• Other Considerations: PM Modi's visit was characterized by heightened security due to concerns regarding Khalistani separatist activity, leading to an altered itinerary including a stay at Luton Hoo, avoiding London for security reasons.

• Cultural Exchange: The visit included a personal gesture from PM Modi, gifting a sapling to King Charles as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.

Conclusion: The signing of the CETA marks a pivotal development in Indo-U.K. relations, intending to foster economic growth, enhance bilateral cooperation, and address global challenges collectively. The new framework aims to ensure a robust partnership while also leveraging the strengths of both nations to navigate contemporary international trade dynamics.

Important Points:

• Agreement signed on July 24, 2025.
• Replaces 'Roadmap 2030' with 'India-U.K. Vision 2035.'
• Aims to enhance trade in sectors such as agriculture, jewelry, and technology.
• Includes a Reciprocal Double Contributions Convention (DCC).
• Emphasizes global cooperation in multilateral institutions.
• Addresses concerns over terrorism and economic offenders.
• Trade agreement viewed as the biggest since Brexit for the U.K.
• Heightened security measures during PM Modi’s visit due to protests.

The Income Tax Department of India has successfully leveraged artificial intelligence (AI) tools over the past four years, resulting in significant improvements in taxpayer compliance and revenue generation. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Chairman, Ravi Agarwal, stated that these advancements have encouraged over one crore taxpayers to voluntarily update their returns, contributing an additional ₹11,000 crore to the government's tax revenues.

Key highlights of the developments in the Income Tax Department include:

• Revenue Generation: The AI initiatives have led to the identification of ₹29,000 crore in previously undisclosed foreign assets and ₹1,000 crore in foreign income related to virtual digital assets (VDAs).

• AI Tool Functionality: The AI technology used by the department is divided into two primary components: the AI tool itself and the database it analyzes. Different AI tools are employed throughout various stages of taxpayer processing, particularly in the Centralized Processing Centre located in Bengaluru.

• Taxpayer Analysis Process:

  • The AI system analyzes the Annual Information Statements (AIS) generated for approximately 40 crore unique taxpayers, where only around 9 crore individuals file tax returns.
  • The first step of AI analysis assesses whether unfiled taxpayers (around 31 crore) should be submitting returns.
  • The second part evaluates the accuracy of the tax returns filed.
  • The system also identifies habitual defaulters through pattern recognition.

• NUDGE System Implementation: The Income Tax Department employs a strategy named NUDGE (Non-intrusive Usage of Data to Guide and Enable) to contact taxpayers. Through targeted letters, the department encourages individuals either to revise their returns or confirm them as necessary.

• Return Filing Changes: The department recently updated its regulations to allow taxpayers to correct their returns within four years of filing, an extension from the previous two-year limit. This adjustment aims to give taxpayers a fair chance to rectify any discrepancies flagged by the department.

• Political Donations Campaign: In a collaborative effort, the department also conducted a targeted campaign from January to March, nudging taxpayers who claimed deductions under Section 80GGC of the Income Tax Act for political donations. Communication went out via SMS and email, with safeguards in place to exclude genuine donors verified through records filed by political parties with the Election Commission.

• Impact of the Political Donations Campaign: As a result of the nudge campaign, 6.25 lakh taxpayers were contacted, leading to 35,260 taxpayers amending their returns and additional tax revenues of ₹404.2 crore. The outreach focused on claims made for the financial years 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25.

Overall, these initiatives reflect the Income Tax Department's progressive approach toward increasing compliance and improving tax administration through the integration of technology and taxpayer engagement strategies.

Important Points:

• The Income Tax Department has encouraged over 1 crore updates leading to ₹11,000 crore in additional tax revenue.
• Disclosure of ₹29,000 crore in foreign assets and ₹1,000 crore in income from VDAs.
• The AI analysis incorporates taxpayer data from 40 crore AIS, with only 9 crore filing returns.
• The NUDGE system helps guide taxpayers to revise or confirm returns.
• Rules changed to permit return updates up to four years post-filing.
• A targeted nudging campaign for political donations involved 6.25 lakh taxpayers, leading to an additional ₹404.2 crore in tax.
• Campaign measures were taken to ensure genuine donators were not targeted for amendments.

Summary of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the UK

On 6th May 2025, India and the United Kingdom signed a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) aimed at enhancing their economic partnership. This landmark agreement was signed by Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Mr. Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Mr. Jonathan Reynolds in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. This agreement marks a significant step in India's engagement with developed economies, aligning with its goal to become a global economic powerhouse.

Key Features of CETA:

• Market Access:

  • Provides zero-duty access on 99% of tariff lines, covering almost all trade value.
  • Targets labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, footwear, gems, and jewellery, generating employment and empowering local artisans and MSMEs.

• Services Commitments:

  • Includes comprehensive provisions for IT/ITeS, financial services, business consulting, education, telecom, architecture, and engineering.
  • Aims to open high-value opportunities and create jobs in diverse sectors.

• Mobility for Indian Professionals:

  • Introduces streamlined pathways for contractual service suppliers and various professional categories, enhancing global mobility.
  • The simplified visa procedures will allow easier access for professionals such as yoga instructors, chefs, and other skilled workers in high-demand sectors.

• Double Contribution Convention (DCC):

  • A significant breakthrough, exempting Indian workers and employers from UK social security contributions for a period of up to three years.
  • This initiative is expected to improve the take-home pay for Indian professionals and reduce operational costs for Indian companies operating in the UK.

• Economic Goals:

  • The bilateral trade between India and the UK is approximately USD 56 billion, with a target to double this figure by 2030.
  • Encourages trade volume growth, job creation, and expansion of exports, fostering a deeper economic relationship.

• Inclusivity in Trade:

  • The agreement is designed to benefit various stakeholders, including women and youth entrepreneurs, farmers, fishermen, and startups.
  • It promotes innovation and sustainable practices while addressing non-tariff barriers in trade.

• Significance and Future Prospects:

  • CETA is expected to significantly boost trade, creating new job opportunities and supporting resilient economic ties between India and the UK.
  • The agreement is positioned as a catalyst for inclusive growth, aiming to empower diverse economic groups and sectors.

This historic agreement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening economic integration between two of the world’s largest economies and is anticipated to create substantial economic opportunities for both nations.

Important Points:

• CETA signed on 6th May 2025, enhancing economic ties.
• Zero-duty access on 99% of tariffs for Indian exports.
• Labour-intensive sectors like textiles and leather targeted for growth.
• Comprehensive services commitments opened for diverse sectors.
• Enhanced mobility provisions for Indian professionals.
• DCC exempts Indian employees from UK social security for three years.
• Bilateral trade aims to double from USD 56 billion by 2030.
• Inclusivity measures in trade for various economic groups.
• CETA is seen as a pathway to increased trade volumes and job creation.

Summary of the Har Ghar Jal Scheme Implementation as of July 2025

The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), initiated by the Government of India in August 2019, aims to ensure the provision of safe drinking water through functional tap water connections to every rural household across the country. As of July 21, 2025, significant progress has been made under this initiative.

Key Highlights:

• Initial Situation: At the inception of the mission, only 3.23 crore (16.7%) of rural households had access to tap water connections.
• Current Status: By July 21, 2025, the total number of rural households with tap water connections has increased to 15.67 crore (80.94%) out of a total of 19.36 crore rural households.
• Additional Connections: Since the program commenced, an additional 12.44 crore households have been equipped with tap water connections.

Data Overview (As on July 21, 2025):

• Household Coverage by States/UTs: The report gives detailed state-wise data showing progress in tap water connection coverage. Notable states, such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, display varying degrees of coverage:
  • Uttar Pradesh: 240.85 lakh (90.13%)
  • Maharashtra: 132.02 lakh (89.94%)
  • Rajasthan: 61.11 lakh (56.71%)

Financial Progress:

The financial allocations and utilizations for the implementation of the JJM disclosed significant expenditures across various states. For example:

• Central Share (Total for 2019-2025): The financial contributions both centrally and from state governments reveal the significant investments aimed at water supply development.
• From fiscal year 2019-20 to 2025-26, the cumulative financial progress indicates rigorous investment, with central shares accumulating to substantial figures across states for water provision.

Financial Details (Indicative of Key Yearly Progress):

• 2022-23: Total reported utilization stood at ₹50,667.81 crore.
• 2023-24: Registered utilization reached ₹82,295.58 crore.
• Current Year (as of July 21, 2025): The total expenditure across the states reflects a comprehensive outline of the investments being made towards achieving the mission objectives.

Implementation Strategy:

• The JJM relies upon a decentralized approach where the responsibility of implementation lies with the State Governments and Union Territories.
• Funds allocated under the scheme are monitored to ensure transparency and optimized utilization.

Conclusion:

The ongoing developments emphasize the Indian government's commitment to improving rural water supply through the JJM initiative. Through substantial financial commitments and enhanced infrastructure, the mission aims to provide universal access to safe drinking water, thereby significantly improving health outcomes and the quality of life in rural areas.

Important Points:

• Mission Launch Date: August 2019.
• Initial Coverage: 3.23 crore households with tap water connections (16.7%).
• Current Coverage: 15.67 crore households (80.94% coverage).
• Additional Connections Since Launch: 12.44 crore.
• State-wise Notables: Uttar Pradesh leads in coverage, with significant contributions from Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
• Overall Investment: 50,667.81 crore reported utilization in 2022-23; 82,295.58 crore in 2023-24.
• Decentralized Implementation: Primarily executed through State Governments and UTs.

The progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission indicates a substantial shift towards addressing rural water supply issues in India, underpinning the governmental commitment to sustainable development goals related to water and sanitation.

The recent signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) marks a significant milestone in international trade relations for India. The Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, publicly congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this achievement, describing it as a person-centered trade diplomacy that aims to enhance prosperity for various sectors, particularly farmers and local artisans.

Key Highlights of the India-UK FTA:

• Date of Signing: The FTA was signed on July 24, 2025.
• Historical Significance: This agreement represents a landmark in global trade relations for India and is seen as a pivotal moment for the Indian economy.
• Agricultural Exports: The treaty waives duties on 95% of agricultural exports, significantly benefiting farmers.
• Marine Exports: Fishermen will also benefit from zero duty on 99% of marine exports, which supports the fishing industries.
• Support for Local Industries: The FTA aligns with the government's "Make in India" initiative, aimed at boosting local manufacturing and enhancing the export potential of products such as textiles, leather goods, footwear, gems, jewelry, and toys.
• Market Opportunities: The agreement is expected to open wider markets for Indian artisans and weavers, thereby elevating their economic prospects and integrating them more deeply into global supply chains.

Implications of the FTA:

• Economic Growth: The agreement is projected to foster economic growth and create new job opportunities in various sectors by facilitating access to the UK market.
• Trade Diplomacy: Amit Shah emphasized that the signing of the FTA signifies a people-centric approach to trade, indicating the government's commitment to improving the livelihoods of citizens through international cooperation.
• Boost to Exports: The reduction in tariffs is expected to enhance India's export capabilities, pushing for a more balanced trade relationship with the UK.
• Strategic Partnership: The FTA also serves as a strategic partnership initiative that may pave the way for further economic ties and collaborative ventures between India and the UK.

Future Prospects:

• The successful implementation of the FTA is anticipated to set a precedent for future trade agreements with other countries, showcasing India’s growing significance in the global market.
• The government aims to monitor the impacts of this agreement in terms of trade volumes, job creation, and economic stability to leverage benefits for its citizens continuously.

In summary, the India-UK FTA is poised to create substantial economic opportunities through reduced trade barriers, supporting key sectors in India's economy, and fulfilling the broader objectives of the government's economic policies.

The Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Shri Durgadas Uikey, recently provided a written response in the Rajya Sabha regarding the "DhartiAabaTribePreneurs 2025" initiative. This initiative is a significant component of the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh program, which celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, an esteemed tribal freedom fighter. The event took place from April 3 to April 5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, as part of the Startup Mahakumbh 2025.

Key Highlights:

• Event Significance:

  • The "DhartiAabaTribePreneurs 2025" serves as a transformative platform aimed at enhancing the entrepreneurial capabilities of Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals.
  • It showcases India's most promising tribal startups, facilitating interaction with industry leaders, venture capitalists, and impact investors.

• Objectives and Opportunities:

  • The initiative aims to provide ST entrepreneurs with the chance to exhibit their innovations and engage in networking with top-tier investors.
  • It includes technical sessions featuring prominent unicorn founders and leaders from the startup ecosystem.
  • The focus of the program is on promoting innovation, inclusivity, and market expansion for tribal-led enterprises on both national and global platforms.

• Partnerships for Impact:

  • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has collaborated with several prestigious institutions including IIM Calcutta, IIT Delhi, IIM Kashipur, IIT Bhilai, IIT Guwahati, IFCI Venture Capital Funds Limited, and META.
  • This collaboration is designed to ensure a sustained impact on tribal startups by leveraging the expertise and resources of these organizations.

• Venture Capital Fund:

  • A noteworthy outcome from this initiative is the establishment of a dedicated Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Tribes.
  • The fund has an initial corpus of ₹50 crore, aiming to foster entrepreneurship and stimulate innovation among tribal communities.

Conclusion: The "DhartiAabaTribePreneurs 2025" initiative represents a strategic response to boost tribal entrepreneurship in India. By providing a comprehensive platform for exposure, mentorship, and investment, it supports the overall economic empowerment of ST communities while commemorating the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

Important Bullet Points:

• "DhartiAabaTribePreneurs 2025" is part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, marking Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s 150th birth anniversary.
• The event was held from April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
• It aims to enhance entrepreneurship among Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals and promote economic growth.
• Opportunities include showcasing innovations, networking, and engaging with industry leaders.
• The initiative emphasizes innovation, inclusivity, and market expansion for tribal businesses.
• Collaborated with premier institutions like IIMs and IITs for impactful support.
• A Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Tribes with an initial corpus of ₹50 crore has been established to foster entrepreneurship.