In May 2025, the Indian government initiated a series of reforms aimed at promoting sustainable electronics, highlighted by the adoption of a Repairability Index for mobile phones and household appliances. This index ranks products according to their repair ease, availability of spare parts, and software support. To enhance the disposal of electronic waste (e-waste), new regulations mandate minimum payments to incentivize formal recycling practices.

Key Developments:

• Repairability Index: A performance measure for assessing how easily mobile devices and appliances can be repaired.
• E-Waste Management: India generated over 1.6 million tonnes of e-waste in 2021-22, making it the world's third-largest producer.
• E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022: Introduced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mandating manufacturers to manage post-use product disposal.
• Right to Repair Framework: Launched by the Department of Consumer Affairs in 2022 and extended with a portal in 2023 for electronics, automobiles, and agricultural equipment.

Cultural Context:

Despite advancements in formal repair frameworks, much of India’s repair knowledge, which is largely informal and based on hands-on experience, remains unrecognized in both policy and academic discourse. Traditional repair methods are passed down through mentorship and community practices rather than formal education, thereby undermining the importance of this knowledge in economic and sustainability dialogues.

• Tacit Knowledge: Represents skills and intuitions that are difficult to formalize, critical for the repair economy, and often passed informally.
• Community Impact: Informal repair workers frequently adapt to constraints, keeping devices operational beyond their intended lifespan.

Global Initiatives:

Internationally, the Right to Repair movement has gained traction, especially within the European Union, which has mandated access to spare parts and repair documentation. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 also advocates for responsible consumption and repair practices.

Challenges:

With the increasing consumer trend towards disposability and trends in product design making repairs more challenging, informal repair communities are at risk of dwindling economic viability and social recognition. The current policy frameworks, such as Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focus inadequately on vocational training that aligns with the demand for practical repair skills.

Recommendations for Policy Reform:

For India to effectively embed sustainability into its technological framework, the following actions are recommended:

• Embedding Repairability in Design: Future electronics should incorporate repairability as a fundamental design criterion.
• Institutional Collaboration: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology should integrate repairability into AI and procurement policies while recognizing informal repairers through schemes such as e-Shram.
• Skill Development: Training programs that focus on diagnostic repair skills that deviate from traditional industrial models should be promoted.
• Research on 'Unmaking': Encourage practices of disassembly, repairing, and repurposing as core components of product life management.

Conclusion:

As India embraces a digital future alongside AI development and sustainability initiatives, the recognition and preservation of informal repair knowledge are essential. By valuing the embodied labor of repair experts and integrating their experiences into formal policy frameworks, India can cultivate a holistic approach to sustainability and repair, thereby strengthening its economic and technological resilience.

Important Sentences:

• In May 2025, India introduced a Repairability Index to promote sustainable electronics.
• India became the third-largest producer of e-waste globally, generating over 1.6 million tonnes in 2021-22.
• The Right to Repair framework was launched in India in 2022 to encourage product longevity and responsible consumption.
• Many repair skills in India are passed down informally, creating a treasure trove of tacit knowledge that remains undervalued in policy frameworks.
• The current E-Waste Management rules do not adequately incorporate repair as a preventative strategy against e-waste generation.
• Policymakers should aim to embed repairability in the design and production process to foster a more sustainable economy.

The article elaborates on the implications of the India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), specifically focusing on the provisions related to intellectual property, particularly concerning access to affordable medicines through licensing mechanisms. Here is a detailed summary:

Summary:

1. CETA Overview:

   • The India-UK CETA has raised concerns over India's commitments, especially in Chapter 13, which addresses intellectual property.
   • Article 13.6 specifically emphasizes the preference for voluntary licensing over compulsory licensing for ensuring access to medicines.

2. Compulsory vs. Voluntary Licensing:

   • India traditionally advocated for compulsory licensing to combat high prices of patented medicines, allowing local production to improve affordability.
   • A significant case was the 2012 grant of compulsory license to Natco Pharma for sorafenib tosylate, which reduced treatment costs from ₹2,80,428 to ₹8,800.

3. Legislative Background:

   • India's Patents Act was amended to align with the WTO TRIPS Agreement, which permits compulsory licensing after three years from the patent grant.
   • The legislation allows compulsory licenses if the patented invention is either not satisfying reasonable public requirements or not available at affordable prices in India.

4. Impact of CETA:

   • India's commitment to voluntary licensing as per CETA would undermine its longstanding position advocating for compulsory licensing in international forums.
   • This shift weakens a key provision of the 2001 Doha Declaration, which allows member countries to issue compulsory licenses amid public health crises.

5. Concerns with Voluntary Licensing:

   • Critics argue that voluntary licensing does not adequately ensure affordable access to medicines, citing the weak negotiating power of domestic companies against multinational pharmaceutical firms.
   • The experience with Cipla's remdesivir, produced under a voluntary license from Gilead Sciences, showed pricing higher than that set by Gilead in the U.S., highlighting the limitations of voluntary arrangements.

6. Technology Transfer Issues:

   • CETA's provisions may compromise India's demand for technology transfer on favorable terms, a demand reiterated in various multilateral discussions, including the UN's NIEO resolution (1974), aimed at facilitating technology sharing with developing nations for industrialization.
   • India's Fourth Biennial Update Report to the UNFCCC (2024) noted that barriers such as slow technology transfer and stringent IPR impede the adoption of climate-friendly technologies.

7. Constitutional and International Implications:

   • The change in stance might affect India's leverage in future negotiations regarding technology transfer essential for tackling climate change and promoting industrial development.
   • The article emphasizes the need for India to reassess its position on compulsory licensing to ensure health security and sustainable technological advancements.

Key Points:

• The India-UK CETA impacts India's position on intellectual property, particularly concerning medicines access.
• Voluntary licensing is favored in CETA, opposing India's historical support for compulsory licensing.
• Compulsory licensing was pivotal in reducing medicine prices significantly in the past.
• The Doha Declaration reaffirms the right to issue compulsory licenses, a stance India now weakens by conceding to voluntary licensing.
• Concerns about the effectiveness of voluntary licensing highlighted by price disparities in past cases.
• Technology transfer issues related to climate change and industrialization are at risk due to concessions made in CETA.
• India's demands for favorable terms in technology transfer could be adversely affected, impacting its developmental strategies.

The article indicates the necessity for India to strike a balance between complying with international trade agreements while safeguarding public health interests and advancing its industrial capabilities.

The completion of the Udhampur, Srinagar, Baramulla rail link project, also known as the Jammu–Baramulla line, signifies a monumental milestone in India’s transportation infrastructure and national integration efforts. This railway project, which spans 272 kilometers across challenging terrains, symbolizes not just an engineering marvel but also a commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Highlights:

• Engineering Achievement:

  • The Jammu-Baramulla line has taken nearly four decades to complete and showcases the ingenuity of Indian railway engineers who navigated through harsh natural conditions including snow-bound tunnels and high-altitude locations.

• Geographic and Economic Impact:

  • The railway line connects critical locations such as Sopore, Anantnag, Qazigund, and Banihal to the national economic framework, enhancing mobility, access to markets, educational opportunities, and employment prospects.
  • It represents not only connectivity but also the bridging of cultural and social gaps, emphasizing the message that Kashmir is integral to India.

• Historical Context:

  • This project is part of a lineage of significant railway contributions, echoing past endeavors such as the construction through the Western Ghats in the 19th century and the Assam rail-link project of 1948, which faced its own set of challenges.

• Strategic Importance:

  • The line reduces reliance on the Jammu-Srinagar highway, a route often affected by landslides and seasonal closures, thus enhancing the resilient flow of essential supplies like food, fuel, and medical aid into Kashmir.

• Social Benefits:

  • This railway offers comfort and affordability, particularly benefiting students and patients who previously faced arduous journeys. It fosters emotional connections, making it easier for families to maintain ties across distances.
  • The integrated railway system is expected to attract investment, leading to the development of industrial parks and skill development centers around stations such as Anantnag and Baramulla.

• Cultural Exchange:

  • The railway opens a pathway for cultural interactions and exchanges, enabling travel and dialogue between diverse populations, and transforming local perspectives.

• Future Development:

  • Emphasizes the need for strategic planning around station developments and last-mile connectivity to maximize the railway's impact.
  • Local stakeholders, including entrepreneurs and women's groups, must be supported to leverage the benefits of accessibility provided by the railway.

• Government and Institutional Commitment:

  • The completion of this railway project serves as a model of democratic development, underscoring the importance of patience, commitment, and strategic planning in overcoming challenges.

The Jammu-Baramulla railway line represents a significant leap toward comprehensive development and national unity in Jammu and Kashmir, while reflecting on the broader aspirations of integrating diverse regions into India's socio-economic fabric.

Important Sentences:

• The Jammu-Baramulla railway line spans 272 km, connecting vital locations in Jammu and Kashmir to the national economy.
• It navigated through formidable terrains and political uncertainties, marking a feat of perseverance.
• The project reduces dependence on the vulnerable Jammu-Srinagar highway, enhancing logistical efficiency.
• The railway offers increased mobility for patients and students and fosters socio-cultural connectivity.
• Future success hinges on strategic planning around railway stations to facilitate regional development and empowerment.
• This project serves as a testament to democratic development and institutional commitment in addressing the region's needs.

Published on: August 04, 2025.

In a significant advancement towards digital transformation and modernization of industries in India, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the "Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs" conducted under the Ministry of Finance in Guwahati. This event highlighted the commitment of the government to promote innovative technologies and facilitate digital infrastructure across Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs).

Key Highlights of the MoU and Workshop:

• Objective: The MoU aims to enhance the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in CPSEs, specifically focusing on advancements in digital transformation through the integration of various cutting-edge technologies.

• Technologies Included: The collaboration will bring forth transformative technologies such as:

  • 5G Captive Non-Public Network (CNPN)
  • Digital Twins
  • 3D Printing integrated with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality/Mixed Reality (AR/VR/MR)
  • Internet of Things (IoT)
  • Big Data Analytics

• 5G CNPN Deployment: BSNL and NRL plan to deploy the first 5G CNPN within the Indian refinery sector, which is set to create a secure and reliable industrial connectivity framework. This initiative leverages indigenous 5G infrastructure to support critical operations efficiently.

• Significance of the Initiative:

  • The Secretary of the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) commended this initiative, labeling it a “Whole of Government” (WoG) approach that could modernize India’s industrial framework, enhance skills, and drive employment in the North Eastern Region.
  • The Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NRL emphasized that this integration of advanced 5G technology would not only improve operational efficiency but also provide enhanced cybersecurity while facilitating innovative training mechanisms and real-time IoT applications.

• Statements from Leadership:

  • CMD of BSNL, Shri A. Robert J. Ravi, affirmed that the partnership illustrates BSNL's dedication to empowering critical sectors of India through next-generation digital infrastructure, indicating a significant technological shift.
  • The Director of Enterprise Business at BSNL noted the collaboration as a milestone for the adaptation of 5G and Industry 4.0 across India’s industrial spectrum, reaffirming the commitment towards the Digital India initiative.

• Future Prospects:

  • This partnership is anticipated to establish a replicable model that may be adopted by other industrial sectors in India, aligning with the government’s vision for a digitally empowered and self-reliant nation.

Conclusion:

The collaboration between BSNL and NRL is a landmark effort designed to modernize India's industrial capacities while enhancing its educational and operational frameworks through advanced digital connectivity and technologies. This MoU is expected to drive significant advancements in various sectors of the economy, supporting India's growth trajectory towards a self-reliant and digitally proficient economy.

Important Points:

• MoU between BSNL and NRL signed to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Focus on developing 5G CNPN in the refinery sector, enhancing industrial connectivity.
• Emphasis on digital transformation through technologies like IoT, AI, and Big Data.
• Aim to create employment opportunities, especially in the North Eastern region.
• Initiative highlights the government's commitment to digital empowerment and modernization of industries.
• Represents a significant step in supporting the Digital India initiative.

In recent years, India's import relationship with Russia has evolved significantly, particularly in the energy sector. The increase in imports from Russia from $5.5 billion in 2020-21 to $63.8 billion in 2024-25 has been primarily driven by the acquisition of mineral fuels. Notably, crude petroleum imports have surged from $2.1 billion to $56.9 billion over the same period. During the last fiscal year, India imported 244.5 million tonnes of crude petroleum, with Russia contributing over 87.5 million tonnes, solidifying its position as India's top supplier.

The geopolitical landscape surrounding India’s trade with Russia has changed, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump has articulated intentions to implement further tariffs on Indian imports, notably a 25% general tariff and the possibility of a severe penalty for countries engaging in trade with Russia—especially concerning energy and defense. A proposed bill in the U.S. Congress aims to impose a staggering 500% duty on all imports from nations that facilitate the exchange of Russian-origin uranium and petroleum products.

This warning aligns with concerns voiced by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who cautioned India, China, and Brazil about potential secondary sanctions if they continue their commercial engagement with Russia, viewed as sustaining Russian war operations in Ukraine. The escalating measures taken by the U.S. and its allies illustrate their commitment to tightening sanctions against Russia.

Despite external pressures, the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has maintained a rationale for sourcing Russian crude oil, emphasizing the need to prioritize energy security for its population. The Indian stance hinges on the argument that the actions taken by the U.S. and the EU do not align with any United Nations sanctions against Russia, thus legitimizing India's oil purchases in the context of its national energy policies.

However, India's growing dependence—36% of its crude imports from Russia—has raised concerns about vulnerabilities in energy security. This reliance could pose risks if geopolitical tensions escalate further. Consequently, experts advise that India should consider diversifying its oil supply sources analogous to strategies used in trade relations with China.

Key Points:

• India's imports from Russia increased drastically from $5.5 billion (2020-21) to $63.8 billion (2024-25).
• The primary driver for this surge has been mineral fuels, particularly crude petroleum, with Russia supplying over 87.5 million tonnes in the last fiscal year.
• U.S. President Trump is targeting Indian imports with potential penalties, adding to an existing 25% tariff.
• A proposed U.S. bill seeks a 500% duty on imports from countries dealing in Russian uranium and petroleum.
• NATO Secretary General has cautioned against continued engagement with Russia, threatening secondary sanctions.
• The Indian government defends its oil purchases by citing energy security and the absence of U.N. sanctions.
• Approximately 36% of India's crude imports stem from Russia, raising concerns about over-dependence.
• Recommendations urge India to diversify its energy sources to enhance long-term energy security.

Summary of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BSNL and NRL for Industry 4.0 Adoption in India

On [date not provided, inferred to be recent], Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting Industry 4.0 technologies in India. This collaboration was initiated during the "Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs" held in Guwahati, organized under the Ministry of Finance.

Key Highlights:

• Participants: The workshop included senior officials such as the Secretary of the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), CMD NRL, MD NRL, Director (Enterprise Business) BSNL, MD AMTRON, and other dignitaries.

• Goals of the MoU:

  • Empower Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) to adopt transformative technologies like 5G Captive Non-Public Networks (CNPN), Digital Twins, 3D Printing with AI, Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality/Mixed Reality (AR/VR/MR), Internet of Things (IoT), and Big Data Analytics.
  • Foster innovation, efficiency, and support the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

• First of its Kind: The agreement aims to establish India’s first 5G CNPN specifically for the refinery sector, enhancing secure and real-time industrial connectivity.

• Significance:

  • The Secretary of DPE commented on the initiative being an exemplary demonstration of the "Whole of Government" (WoG) approach, with the potential to modernize India's industrial base.
  • The project is expected to promote advanced skills and create job opportunities, especially in the North Eastern Region of India.

• Operational Enhancements: CMD NRL expressed that the incorporation of 5G CNPN will improve operational efficiency, cybersecurity, and integrate transformative technologies like AR/VR-based training and Digital Twins.

• BSNL’s Commitment:

  • CMD BSNL, Shri A. Robert J. Ravi, emphasized the strategic focus on empowering crucial sectors of India with next-gen digital infrastructure.
  • He referred to the deployment of the dedicated 5G CNPN at NRL as a significant technological advancement that will redefine industrial operations.

• Future Prospects: The Director (Enterprise Business) of BSNL remarked that this partnership marks a historic milestone for the adoption of 5G and Industry 4.0 technologies in India’s industrial sector, asserting BSNL’s dedication to supporting the Digital India initiative with robust communication infrastructure for CPSEs.

• Wider Impact: This partnership is expected to serve as a model that can be replicated across other industrial sectors, aligning with the Government of India’s vision for a digitally empowered and self-reliant nation.

In conclusion, the collaboration between BSNL and NRL signifies a pivotal move towards embracing modern industrial technologies and improving the overall operational framework of CPSEs in India, contributing significantly to the nation’s digital advancement and economic resilience.

Important Sentences:

• BSNL and NRL signed a landmark MoU to accelerate Industry 4.0 adoption in India during the "Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs."
• The MoU aims to empower CPSEs to embrace transformative technologies such as 5G CNPN, Digital Twins, and IoT.
• This initiative will establish India’s first 5G CNPN within the refinery sector, enhancing security and real-time industrial connectivity.
• The project is expected to promote advanced skilling and job creation, especially in the North Eastern Region.
• CMD NRL addressed the integration of 5G CNPN as a game-changing moment for India’s refinery sector.
• BSNL’s partnership with NRL is a step towards a digitally intelligent Bharat, reinforcing the commitment to the Digital India initiative.

On August 1, 2025, a Florida jury found Tesla, Inc. liable for a total of $243 million in damages related to a 2019 fatal crash involving its Autopilot system. This ruling marks a significant legal precedent against Tesla regarding accidents attributed to its semi-autonomous driving software, potentially opening the door for more lawsuits facing the company in the future.

Key Details of the Case:

• Parties Involved: The jury awarded damages to the estate of Naibel Benavides Leon and her former boyfriend Dillon Angulo, who were involved in the crash.
• Damages Awarded: The jury awarded $129 million in compensatory damages plus $200 million in punitive damages, with Tesla held liable for 33% of the compensatory damages (approximately $42.6 million).
• Driver Liability: The driver, George McGee, was found responsible for 67% of the damages but was not a defendant in the case, meaning he will not pay his share.
• Incident Background: The crash occurred on April 25, 2019, when McGee, driving a 2019 Model S at approximately 62 mph, failed to stop at a traffic signal and crashed into the victims' parked Chevy Tahoe. It was reported that he was distracted while attempting to retrieve a dropped cellphone, resulting in severe consequences.

Legal Context and Implications:

• First of Its Kind: This trial is notable as the first wrongful death case related to a third party resulting from Tesla's Autopilot system that has proceeded to trial. Tesla has faced numerous similar lawsuits, but many have been settled or dismissed prior to trial.
• Expert Opinions: Legal experts, including law professors, interpreted the jury's ruling as a significant finding against Tesla, indicating that the Autopilot system may contain defects contributing to such accidents.
• Tesla's Response: Tesla announced plans to appeal the jury's decision, asserting that the driver was entirely at fault and that no vehicle, then or now, could have prevented the crash. The company contends that it is crucial to differentiate driver errors from the technology itself and describes the jury's decision as detrimental to automotive safety advancements.

Market Impact:

• Stock Market Reaction: Following the ruling, Tesla shares fell by 1.8%, a part of a broader trend where the company’s stock price has dropped by 25% this year as sales for electric vehicles decrease. Analysts indicate that Tesla's market valuation, which stands at nearly $1 trillion, relies heavily on potential advancements in robotics and autonomous driving technologies.

Future Implications:

• Increased Legal Scrutiny: Experts suggest that this verdict may stimulate additional lawsuits against Tesla concerning Autopilot accidents, complicating future settlements and increasing financial liabilities for the company.
• Robotics and AI Strategy: The ruling may hinder Elon Musk's strategy to cultivate investor confidence regarding Tesla's leadership in autonomous driving technologies, particularly as the company gears up for its planned robotaxi service launch next year.

Summary Points:

• Florida jury finds Tesla liable for $243 million in damages in 2019 Autopilot crash trial.
• Victims awarded $129 million compensatory and $200 million punitive damages.
• Tesla responsible for 33% of compensatory damages; driver found liable for 67%.
• Incident involved driver distraction leading to failure to adhere to traffic signals.
• Case noted as first of its kind to proceed to trial regarding Autopilot technology.
• Tesla plans to appeal; claims the driver bears full responsibility for the accident.
• Stock prices declined following verdict, reflecting challenges in the electric vehicle market.
• Experts warn of potential increase in lawsuits against Tesla in light of ruling.

This case highlights the ongoing legal and safety challenges that Tesla faces concerning its Autopilot technology, which remains a contentious aspect of automated driving discourse.

Summary: Education as the Pillar of Progress in Tamil Nadu

The state of Tamil Nadu in India has seen significant economic and social advancements over the last century, primarily attributed to its commitment to education. This emphasis on education, particularly for marginalized communities, continues to foster social equity and access to opportunities.

Key Developments:

• Historical Initiatives:

  • The foundation for Tamil Nadu's educational reform was laid in 1920 when the Municipal Corporation of Madras implemented the first mid-day meal program in an Indian school, inspired by leader P. Theagaraya Chetty. This initiative aimed at improving student attendance and well-being, which has evolved into one of the world's most effective school meal programs, further enhanced by the Breakfast Scheme initiated in 2022.

• Recent Educational Achievements:

  • Notable achievements include 135 students from Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Schools gaining admissions into prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), National Institutes of Fashion Technology (NIFT), National Law Universities, and other top colleges. Tamil Nadu students also secured all six seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes at the Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University.

• Support Structures:

  • These students benefited from tailored support systems, including focused examination training, scholarships, free education, and resources like textbooks and uniforms. The government also provides safe housing for students from remote areas and diverse skill training programs to enhance employability.

• Government Schemes:

  • Various schemes promote educational access and equity:
    • Pudhumai Penn Thittam: A stipend of ₹1,000 per month for female students pursuing college education.
    • Illam Thedi Kalvi: Launched post-COVID-19 to bridge learning gaps among vulnerable communities.
    • Free Breakfast Scheme: This initiative has improved school attendance and nutrition among primary school students.

• Statistical Highlights:

  • Tamil Nadu's Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education is 47%, significantly higher than the national average of 28.4%. For women, the GER stands at 47.3%, compared to the national average of 28.5%. These figures highlight the state's commitment to inclusivity and social justice in education.

• Historical Context:

  • The educational reforms in Tamil Nadu trace back to the efforts of the Justice Party, which passed the Government Order in 1921, advocating educational access for marginalized groups. The Dravidian movement has further emphasized educational equity, which the DMK party has carried forward since coming to power in 1967.

• Vision for Future:

  • Chief Minister M.K. Stalin articulated the importance of education as a means to create a just and prosperous Tamil Nadu. The government aims to continue investments in educational schemes that empower underprivileged sections, ensuring equal opportunities in line with the principles of social justice.

• Collective Success:

  • The success of the 135 students is framed as a collective achievement tied to familial, educational, and governmental support, reaffirming that excellence in education should be accessible to all, not just a privileged few.

In conclusion, Tamil Nadu's approach to education, characterized by its inclusive policies and historical commitment to social equity, creates a robust framework for advancing the socio-economic status of its populace, particularly marginalized communities.

Important Points:

• Emphasis on education as a driver of economic and social progress in Tamil Nadu.
• Initial mid-day meal program launched in 1920 evolved into a comprehensive school meal initiative.
• 135 students from marginalized backgrounds secured admissions in prestigious institutions.
• Comprehensive support systems include focused training, scholarships, free resources, and skill training.
• Tamil Nadu’s GER is 47%, well above the national average; women’s GER is significantly higher too.
• Historical context rooted in the Justice Party's 1921 Government Order for educational access.
• Continuous government schemes aim to maintain and enhance educational equity.
• Collective success highlights the importance of community, educational institutions, and government support.

In response to the controversy surrounding the Italian fashion brand Prada's resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals, two corporations from Maharashtra and Karnataka have publicly reinforced their ownership of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for these traditional sandals. The issue arose after Prada included sandals in its Spring/Summer 2026 men’s collection that resembled Kolhapuri chappals, which sparked significant backlash online and among artisan communities.

Key Points:

• Ownership of GI Tag: LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries) and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivanram Leather Industries Development Corporation) hold the registered GI tag for Kolhapuri chappals, asserting that no other individual or organization can negotiate or represent any discussions concerning the GI with Prada or equivalent entities.

• Historical Context: Kolhapuri chappals have historical significance, having received royal endorsement in the 20th century from Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. The tradition can be traced back to the 12th-century saint movement. Today, the production region spans eight districts, split evenly between Maharashtra and Karnataka.

• Legal Proceedings: Following Prada's fashion show, local community members and artisans expressed their concerns, leading to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) being filed in the Bombay High Court. The PIL alleged that Prada's use of GI-protected designs constituted a breach of intellectual property rights.

• Court Ruling: On July 16, 2025, the Bombay High Court dismissed the PIL, affirming that only the registered holders of the GI—namely, the leather industry development corporations of Maharashtra and Karnataka—are authorized to take legal action in such matters.

• Mission Statement: The two corporations have emphasized their commitment not just to protect the GI tag but also to advocate for the rights of thousands of local artisans, promoting the cultural significance of Kolhapuri chappals on both national and international fronts.

This situation highlights the intersection of traditional crafts with contemporary fashion and the importance of protecting indigenous designs under intellectual property laws.

The recent Investors Roundtable Conference held in Bengaluru serves as a significant initiative under the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, targeting the advancement of industrial growth across southern India. Here are the key takeaways from the event:

• Date and Venue: The high-level conference took place in Bengaluru, convened under the leadership of Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

• Objective: The meeting focused on tapping the potential of southern industrial nodes as outlined in the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP), and enhancing collaboration between the Central and State governments to promote industrialization and attract investment.

• Key Initiatives: The roundtable highlighted several national initiatives aimed at strengthening investor confidence, including:

  • Start-Up India
  • Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP)
  • National Single Window System (NSWS)
  • Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS)
  • Invest India

• Industrial Node Development: Discussions centered around the establishment of industrial nodes in Tumakuru, Krishnapatnam, Kopparthy, Orvakal, Zaheerabad, and Palakkad, emphasizing their roles in driving growth in various sectors, particularly advanced manufacturing, electronics, automobiles, and logistics.

• Centre-State Collaboration: Shri Bhatia emphasized the necessity of robust Centre-State partnerships to accelerate industrialization and global investment attraction, urging stakeholders to align state policies with national objectives.

• Engagement with Stakeholders: The conference included participation from industry leaders and associations like CII, FICCI, ASSOCHAM, and MSME representatives. It provided a forum for them to express challenges, explore opportunities, and address regional specifics regarding industrial growth.

• Facility Visits: On the margins of the conference, the DPIIT delegation visited key innovation hubs, including the K-tech MeitY Nasscom Centre of Excellence for IoT & AI, to engage with startups, understand industry innovations, and identify support mechanisms.

• Future Industrial Ecosystems: Shri Rajat Kumar Saini, CEO & MD of NICDC, showcased the envisioned next-generation industrial cities equipped with modern infrastructure, emphasizing the strategic nodes as catalysts for economic growth.

• Tumakuru Industrial Area: As a prime example, the Tumakuru Industrial Area, part of the Chennai–Bengaluru Industrial Corridor, is under development across three phases and spans an area of 8,484 acres. It aims to become a smart industrial city with superior connectivity and infrastructure.

• Government Representation: Dignitaries present at the event included high-ranking officials from southern states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Kerala, Puducherry, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, which reflects a unified approach towards industrial advancement.

In conclusion, the Investors Roundtable Conference marks an important step towards realizing the 'Viksit Bharat @2047' vision by addressing the critical need for enhanced industrial growth through strategic partnerships and innovation-focused policies.

Important Highlights:

• High-level Investors Roundtable in Bengaluru to promote Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.
• Focus on southern industrial nodes under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP).
• Key national initiatives discussed include Start-Up India, BRAP, and NSWS.
• Centre-State collaboration emphasized for attracting investments and ensuring industrial growth.
• Participation from industry leaders and associations fostering state-specific dialogues.
• Planned visits to innovation hubs and industrial areas for insights into advanced manufacturing.
• Tumakuru Industrial Area highlighted as a development model under the Chennai–Bengaluru Industrial Corridor.