Must ReadPM Modi pitches AI skilling and free online coaching to youth, warns against ‘dimagi Naxals’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined a seven-point reform framework dubbed 'Saptadhara' during his 2026 Independence Day address, focusing on youth empowerment through AI skilling and free online coaching via India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). The speech also highlighted emerging security threats, introducing the concept of 'ideological Naxals' and the changing nature of warfare, including cyber attacks on critical infrastructure.
Read on The HinduDive Into Study Notes
Must ReadForeign Assets Disclosure Scheme 2026: ₹1 crore limit, 30% tax and December 31 deadline — all you need to know
The government has introduced the Foreign Assets of Small Taxpayers - Disclosure Scheme, 2026, under the [Finance Act, 2026]. This one-time voluntary disclosure scheme allows eligible taxpayers to declare undisclosed foreign assets or income up to ₹1 crore, and undeclared assets already offered to tax up to ₹5 crore, by paying a specified tax or fee.
Must ReadPM Modi says India securing critical minerals, deepening global supply partnerships
During the 80th Independence Day address, the Prime Minister highlighted India's focus on securing critical minerals through the launch of the [National Critical Mineral Mission]. The government has allocated Rs 16,300 crore for this mission, which aims to boost domestic exploration, international partnerships, and downstream processing capabilities.
Read on Economic TimesDive Into Study Notes
Must ReadInternship scheme aims to bridge skill gap among youth: Nirmala Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted that the recently launched internship scheme is designed to address the critical skill gap in India by providing youth with hands-on corporate experience. The government has relaxed eligibility criteria, increased stipends, and shortened durations for the third phase of the pilot project, implemented by the [Ministry of Corporate Affairs], following a muted initial response.
Must ReadHow will caste be recorded in second phase of Census 2027? | Explained
The [Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India] has notified a 40-question schedule for the Population Enumeration phase of Census 2027, notably including a question on caste. This marks the first time since Independence that caste details (beyond SC/ST) will be collected during a decennial Census, using an open-ended format.
Must ReadWhat is the latest Mining Amendment Act about? | Explained
The Rajya Sabha has passed an amendment to the [Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957], which prevents State governments from levying any tax or cess on mineral-bearing lands and mining operations. The amendment takes retrospective effect, invalidating any uncollected levies imposed by States.
Read on The HinduDive Into Study Notes
ImportantInternet unbound: On the summoning of Meta staff
The Union government has summoned senior staff from Meta (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram), reportedly over the brief removal of a video message by the Prime Minister. However, the editorial argues the real issue is the government's attempt to pressure the platform into suppressing posts related to public protests, using mechanisms like [Section 79] of the [Information Technology Act, 2000].
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ImportantFinancial democracy, the Jan Dhan transformation
An editorial reflects on the 12th anniversary of the [Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana] (PMJDY), launched in 2014 to ensure universal access to banking facilities. It highlights the scheme's role in advancing **financial inclusion**, serving as the foundational layer for the **JAM Trinity** (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile), and providing economic identity and empowerment to marginalized sections, aligning with the philosophy of **Antyodaya** (uplifting the poorest of the poor).
Read on The HinduDive Into Study Notes
ImportantHouse in disorder: On the monsoon session of Parliament
The monsoon session of Parliament witnessed significant disruptions and hurried legislation passing amid opposition protests and controversies surrounding student agitations. Key bills, including the [Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill] and measures against exam malpractices, were passed, while controversial issues like delimitation and amendments to the [Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act] sparked demands for broader consultation and parliamentary scrutiny.
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