1. The Cabinet Approves the development of a greenfield Airport at Kota-Bundi, Rajasthan
Context: The Union Cabinet has approved the development of a Greenfield Airport at Kota-Bundi in Rajasthan, marking a significant milestone in strengthening aviation infrastructure and enhancing regional connectivity. This initiative is expected to accelerate economic growth, tourism, and industrial development, while aligning with India’s vision of infrastructure-led growth and the government’s flagship UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme for affordable air travel.
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Understanding Greenfield Airports
A Greenfield Airport refers to a completely new airport built on undeveloped land, designed to incorporate modern facilities, advanced technology, and eco-friendly infrastructure from the start. Unlike brownfield projects, which involve expanding existing airports, greenfield projects allow comprehensive long-term planning and sustainable growth. The proposed Kota-Bundi airport will be a state-of-the-art facility, reflecting these priorities.
Strategic Importance of Kota-Bundi
Kota is widely recognized as an educational hub, attracting lakhs of students every year to its coaching institutes. At the same time, it holds industrial significance with thriving sectors like cement, fertilizer, and textiles. Bundi, adjacent to Kota, offers immense potential in tourism, with its forts, palaces, and cultural heritage. The new airport will serve as a gateway to both education and tourism, creating seamless access for students, professionals, and tourists alike.
Boost to Rajasthan’s Economy and Tourism
Rajasthan is one of India’s leading tourism states, drawing domestic and international visitors to its heritage sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural festivals. Enhanced connectivity through the new airport will promote higher tourist inflows, thereby benefiting hospitality, handicrafts, local markets, and allied industries. For industries in Kota, improved connectivity will strengthen supply chains, export potential, and investment inflows, fueling balanced economic growth in the region.
Alignment with National Policies
The project complements several national initiatives, including the National Civil Aviation Policy (2016) and the UDAN scheme, which aim to democratize air travel and expand connectivity to smaller cities. It also aligns with the PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multimodal Connectivity, ensuring seamless integration with road, rail, and logistics infrastructure. The adoption of sustainable designs and renewable energy systems in construction may further position it as a model eco-friendly airport project.
Employment and Long-Term Impact
The airport will generate substantial direct and indirect employment during construction and operations. Jobs will emerge in aviation services, logistics, tourism, hospitality, and ancillary sectors, contributing to local livelihoods. In the long term, the project will attract domestic and foreign investment, enhance trade competitiveness, and strengthen Rajasthan’s position in India’s fast-growing aviation sector, where passenger traffic is projected to surpass 400 million by 2030.
Conclusion:
The approval of the Greenfield Airport at Kota-Bundi is a visionary step toward reshaping the region’s connectivity, economy, and tourism landscape. By linking educational, industrial, and heritage hubs with modern air travel facilities, the project is expected to drive sustainable development, generate employment, and contribute to India’s aspiration of becoming a global aviation leader.
2. MoP Plans to Develop 97 GW coal-fired Power Capacity by FY35
Context: The Ministry of Power (MoP) has announced a roadmap to add 97 gigawatts (GW) of coal-fired power capacity by FY 2034–35. This decision comes against the backdrop of India’s growing energy demand, concerns over energy security, and the need to ensure reliable base-load power supply while the country continues its transition towards renewable energy. The move underscores India’s challenge of balancing sustainability goals with economic growth requirements.
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Rising Power Demand in India
India’s electricity demand has been growing rapidly due to industrialization, urbanization, and digital expansion. According to projections by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), the country’s peak power demand is expected to cross 335 GW by 2030, compared to around 243 GW in 2024. Renewable energy, while expanding at a fast pace, faces challenges of intermittency and storage. Coal, therefore, continues to play a critical role in meeting the country’s base-load requirements.
The 97 GW Capacity Plan
The proposed 97 GW expansion will include new thermal plants and capacity additions at existing ones. This is expected to significantly boost India’s current coal-based installed capacity of around 210 GW. The plan ensures that coal continues to account for a substantial share of India’s energy mix, even as the government pursues ambitious targets of 500 GW renewable capacity by 2030. The MoP has clarified that these projects will adopt modern supercritical and ultra-supercritical technologies,
which are more efficient and less polluting than conventional coal plants.
Balancing Energy Transition and Security
India has committed to achieve net zero emissions by 2070 and increase the share of non-fossil fuel-based electricity to 50% by 2030. However, in the medium term, coal remains indispensable to prevent power shortages and ensure stability of supply. Experts highlight that renewable energy, despite rapid growth, cannot yet replace coal fully due to challenges in battery storage technology and the requirement for round-the-clock electricity. Thus, this coal addition is seen as a bridge strategy until renewable infrastructure matures.
Economic and Industrial Implications
The expansion of coal-based capacity will also generate employment opportunities, boost coal mining activities, and support industries dependent on reliable power. At the same time, this may increase pressure on India’s coal imports, unless domestic production ramps up significantly. The government’s push for Atmanirbhar Bharat in the energy sector will therefore involve both expanding domestic coal output and ensuring environmental safeguards through clean coal technologies.
Environmental and Policy Challenges
The expansion of coal-based power raises concerns regarding carbon emissions, air pollution, and water consumption. India will have to invest heavily in carbon capture technologies, flue gas desulphurization systems, and stricter compliance norms to minimize the ecological footprint. Policy debates are expected to intensify between advocates of green energy transition and supporters of energy security through coal. Ultimately, this highlights the tightrope India must walk in achieving sustainable yet inclusive growth.Conclusion: The Ministry of Power’s plan to develop 97 GW of coal-fired power capacity by FY35 reflects the realities of India’s energy transition journey. While coal will remain vital in ensuring energy security and economic stability, India must simultaneously strengthen its renewable energy ecosystem, storage technologies, and emission mitigation measures. This dual-track approach will be essential to balance the demands of growth, equity, and sustainability in the coming decades.
3. CCS approves Rs 62,000 crore deal to purchase 97 Tejas Mark 1A Jets from HAL
Context: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved a landmark defense procurement worth ₹62,000 crore for the purchase of 97 Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This is one of the largest-ever orders placed on India’s domestic defense sector and reflects a strong push towards self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat. The decision is aimed at modernizing the Indian Air Force (IAF), reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, and boosting the indigenous defense manufacturing ecosystem.
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Significance of Tejas Mark 1A Jets
The Tejas Mark 1A, developed by HAL, is an advanced version of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). Equipped with modern avionics, active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, electronic warfare systems, and enhanced weapon capabilities, the aircraft is designed for air-to-air, air-to-ground, and reconnaissance roles. The induction of nearly 100 of these jets will significantly bolster the IAF’s combat readiness and help phase out aging fleets such as the MiG-21s.
Boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat
The deal is a major step towards India’s defense indigenization goals. With over 75% indigenous content, the Tejas program enhances India’s strategic autonomy by reducing reliance on imported platforms like Rafale or Sukhoi. It also strengthens domestic supply chains, creating opportunities for MSMEs, startups, and ancillary industries in aerospace and defense. This aligns with the government’s broader push to position India as a global defense exporter by 2047.
Strategic and Security Implications
The approval comes at a time when India faces heightened security challenges on its borders with China and Pakistan. The Tejas Mark 1A will provide the IAF with a technologically advanced and cost-effective alternative to imported fighter jets. Its induction also improves operational flexibility, enabling faster deployment and a stronger deterrence posture. Analysts view this move as critical to maintaining regional air superiority and ensuring India’s preparedness for future conflicts.
Economic and Industrial Impact
Apart from defense security, this order will inject massive growth into India’s aerospace industry. HAL and its partners are expected to generate thousands of skilled and semi-skilled jobs. The project will also spur innovation in composite materials, avionics, propulsion, and weapon integration systems. The ripple effect is likely to extend to private players and research institutions, creating a stronger defense-industrial base and nurturing technological self-sufficiency.
Challenges and Way Forward
While the CCS approval is historic, successful implementation depends on timely production and delivery by HAL. Delays in past defense projects highlight the need for efficient project management, quality control, and sustained R&D investments. At the same time, India must ensure that the Tejas program keeps pace with emerging fifth-generation technologies such as stealth, artificial intelligence integration, and hypersonic systems. Balancing cost-effectiveness with cutting-edge innovation will be critical for long-term defense modernization.Conclusion: The CCS approval of a ₹62,000 crore deal for 97 Tejas Mark 1A jets marks a watershed moment in India’s journey towards defense indigenization and military modernization. By strengthening the IAF with a robust indigenous platform, the decision not only enhances national security but also reinforces India’s ambition to become a global hub for defense manufacturing. Ensuring timely delivery, sustained innovation, and export readiness will determine the long-term success of this landmark initiative.
4. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Announced a Nationwide Roll out of IT 2.0- APT
Context: The Union Minister for Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, announced the nationwide rollout of IT 2.0 – Aadhaar-based Payment and Telecom (APT) system. This initiative is aimed at strengthening digital governance, transparency, and accountability within the telecom sector. By leveraging Aadhaar authentication, the government seeks to streamline service delivery, reduce fraud, and ensure that benefits of digital transformation reach every citizen.
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Objective of IT 2.0–APT
The IT 2.0–APT platform has been designed to integrate Aadhaar-based verification into telecom services. Its primary goal is to curb SIM card frauds, prevent identity theft, and enable secure digital transactions. By embedding Aadhaar authentication in the telecom ecosystem, the initiative will also improve the efficiency of Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, reducing duplication and misuse.
Impact on Digital Governance
The rollout is in line with the government’s vision of building a digitally empowered society under Digital India. By integrating Aadhaar verification into telecom networks, the platform will strengthen the foundations of e-governance, particularly in areas like direct benefit transfers (DBTs), mobile banking, and digital inclusion programs. This enhances the credibility of telecom as a backbone for digital service delivery across urban and rural India.
Strengthening Security in Telecom Sector
One of the major concerns in India’s telecom sector has been the misuse of fake SIM cards for illegal activities, including cybercrimes and financial frauds. The APT framework ensures real-time Aadhaar-based authentication, thereby plugging loopholes and strengthening national security architecture. This step is also crucial in the backdrop of India’s growing dependence on digital financial services and mobile-based transactions.
Economic and Social Benefits
Apart from enhancing security, the system will bring down the operational costs for telecom operators by reducing manual verifications and paperwork. Citizens will benefit from faster service delivery, simplified KYC norms, and safer transactions. For rural areas, where mobile penetration is growing rapidly, this initiative could ensure trust in digital payments and encourage wider adoption of online services. In the long term, it will contribute to India’s ambition of achieving a $1 trillion digital economy by 2027–28.
Challenges and Way Ahead
While the initiative is groundbreaking, concerns remain about data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital exclusion of those without Aadhaar access. The government and regulators will need to establish robust safeguards against misuse of personal information and ensure compliance with data protection laws. Further, ensuring smooth rollout in remote regions with poor connectivity will be vital for achieving the scheme’s full potential.
Conclusion:
The nationwide launch of IT 2.0–APT marks an important milestone in India’s digital governance journey. By combining Aadhaar authentication with telecom services, the government aims to deliver a more secure, transparent, and efficient system for citizens. If implemented effectively with strong privacy and security safeguards, the initiative could redefine India’s telecom sector and act as a backbone for the country’s broader digital transformation.
5. IIT-M, FedEx Launched SMART Centre for AI-driven Logistics Solutions
Context: The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M), in collaboration with FedEx, has launched the SMART (Sustainable, Market-ready, Advanced, Resilient, and Technological) Centre for AI-driven Logistics Solutions. This pioneering initiative seeks to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Data Analytics to transform India’s logistics and supply chain ecosystem. It represents a major step in integrating academic research with industry needs to make India’s logistics sector more efficient, sustainable, and globally competitive.
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Objective of the SMART Centre
The SMART Centre aims to act as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation in logistics, focusing on optimizing supply chain networks, demand forecasting, and last-mile delivery solutions. With India targeting to reduce logistics costs from the current 13–14% of GDP to around 8% (on par with global standards), the centre will be instrumental in developing AI-driven solutions that can enhance efficiency and reduce wastage.
Role of IIT-Madras
IIT-Madras, with its strong background in AI and Data Science research, will lead the knowledge-building component of the collaboration. The institution will contribute expertise in developing algorithms for real-time data analysis, predictive modeling, and intelligent routing systems. By leveraging its academic and technological strengths, IIT-M aims to bridge the gap between research and real-world industry application.
Contribution of FedEx
As a global logistics giant, FedEx brings in decades of industry experience, operational insights, and access to a vast logistics network. The partnership ensures that the solutions developed at the centre will be practically applicable, scalable, and aligned with global best practices. FedEx’s role will primarily revolve around providing industry expertise, datasets, and support for pilot projects that can later be deployed at scale.
Broader Implications for India’s Logistics Sector
India’s logistics sector has often been constrained by inefficiencies, high costs, and fragmented infrastructure. The SMART Centre’s work on AI-driven optimization can revolutionize areas like warehouse management, route planning, inventory tracking, and sustainability practices. This directly supports the government’s vision under the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy (2022), which aim to make logistics seamless, technology-driven, and cost-efficient.
Sustainability and Future Prospects
Beyond efficiency, the centre will also explore sustainable logistics solutions such as fuel-efficient transportation, carbon footprint reduction, and green warehousing practices. This aligns with India’s commitment to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070. The collaboration between IIT-M and FedEx highlights how academia-industry partnerships can play a critical role in making India’s logistics sector not only cost-effective but also environmentally responsible.
ConclusionThe launch of the SMART Centre for AI-driven Logistics Solutions by IIT-Madras and FedEx marks a new era in India’s logistics innovation. By combining academic research with industry expertise, the initiative has the potential to significantly reduce logistics costs, improve delivery efficiency, and boost sustainability. If scaled effectively, this collaboration can strengthen India’s position as a global logistics hub, ensuring competitiveness in the world economy while advancing sustainable development goals.
6. EXIM Bank signs USD 40 million credit line deal with Africa’s ECOWAS Bank
Context: The Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank) has signed a USD 40 million Line of Credit (LoC) agreement with the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), a regional financial institution in West Africa. This agreement is aimed at financing infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy projects across the member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The deal underlines India’s growing commitment to South-South cooperation, economic diplomacy, and strengthening trade relations with Africa.
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About the Agreement
The USD 40 million LoC extended by EXIM Bank to EBID will provide concessional financing for development projects in West Africa. These funds can be utilized by 16 ECOWAS member states for projects in critical sectors like agriculture, energy access, water management, transportation, and healthcare. Such financing arrangements strengthen India’s image as a reliable partner in Africa’s growth journey.
Role of EXIM Bank
EXIM Bank acts as the principal financial institution for promoting India’s international trade and investment. By providing concessional credit to foreign governments and regional banks, EXIM Bank enables Indian companies to export goods, services, and project expertise abroad. Through this LoC, Indian businesses will also benefit from opportunities in engineering, construction, and technology-based services, thereby linking domestic industry with global markets.
Strategic Importance of Africa for India
Africa is a vital partner for India, not only in terms of trade but also in areas of energy security, food security, and strategic cooperation. The ECOWAS region, rich in natural resources and rapidly urbanizing, presents vast opportunities for investment. Strengthening ties with ECOWAS aligns with India’s broader Africa policy, including initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) and India’s participation in infrastructure development across the continent.
India’s Development Partnership Model
Unlike traditional aid models, India emphasizes a development partnership approach rooted in mutual benefit. Through LoCs, India supports projects that generate socio-economic value in Africa while simultaneously opening avenues for Indian industries. This strengthens economic diplomacy, fosters goodwill, and enhances India’s influence in international forums.
Broader Implications
The deal signifies more than just financing—it is a step toward greater South-South cooperation. At a time when global geopolitics is shifting, India’s growing engagement in Africa helps counterbalance the presence of other global players in the region. For ECOWAS nations, Indian support means access to affordable financing, technical expertise, and capacity building, which can accelerate regional integration and sustainable development.
Conclusion: The USD 40 million LoC agreement between EXIM Bank and ECOWAS Bank highlights India’s proactive role in supporting Africa’s development. It reinforces India’s position as a trusted partner in the Global South while simultaneously creating new avenues for Indian industries abroad. This initiative reflects a model of cooperation where economic growth, infrastructure creation, and mutual benefits converge, strengthening both India’s global standing and Africa’s development prospects.
