Daily PIB Highlights (23,24-06-2025)

Topic- 1: INS Tamal to be Commissioned in Russia: Boost to Indian Navy’s Stealth Capabilities

GS-3: Internal Security and Science & Technology  

The context:

India is set to commission “INS Tamal,” a state-of-the-art stealth multi-role frigate of the Tushil Class, on 01 July 2025 in Kaliningrad, Russia.

About the INS Tamal:

• • It is the eighth in the series of Krivak classfrigates inducted from Russia over the past two decades.
  • Tamalis the second ship of the Tushil Class, which are the upgraded versions of their predecessors, Talwar and Teg classes having three ships each.
  • India as part of the broader contract for Tushilclass is also building two similar frigates called the Triput class at Goa Shipyard Limited with transfer of technology and design assistance from the Russian Side.
  • Indian Navy will be operating ten ships with similar capabilities and commonality in equipment, weapon and sensor fit over four different classes.
  • Tamal‘s construction was closely overseen by an Indian team of specialists from the Warship Overseeing Team stationed at Kaliningrad, under the aegis of the Embassy of India, Moscow.
  • At the Naval Headquarters, the project was steered by the Directorate of Ship Production under the Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition.
  • Tamalhas been built at Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia, and is the last warship to be inducted from a foreign source, in line with the Government of India’s impetus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India
  • The ship has 26% indigenous components, including the BrahMos long-range cruise missile for targeting both at sea and land.

Symbolism & Significance:

• • The ship’s name, Tamal, symbolises the mythical sword used for combat by Indra – the King of the gods.
  • The ship’s mascot is inspired by the congruence of the ‘Jambavant’(जाम्बवन्त) the Immortal Bear King of Indian Mythology and the Russian National Animal – the Eurasian Brown Bear.
  • The ship’s crew collectively takes great pride in calling themselves the ‘The Great Bears’.
  • Tamalstands as a testament to the longstanding Indo-Russian cooperation and friendship which has stood the test of time.
  • The ship’s motto, ‘Sarvada Sarvatra Vijaya’(Victorious Always Everytime) signifies the Indian Navy’s undying commitment to operational excellence in every mission, complementing its motto ‘Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive and Future Ready Force Safeguarding National Maritime Interests – Anytime, Anywhere’.
  • Tamalis equipped with the latest technology in warfighting, including the BrahMos supersonic missile system for anti-ship and land-attack capabilities, Surface Surveillance Radar complex and HUMSA NG Mk II sonar with the anti-submarine weapon firing complex amongst a host of cutting-edge weapon and sensors of Indian Origin.
  • It also features modern communication and data-link systems, navigation equipment and critical infrastructure, making the ship a powerful asset for naval operations. The major Indian OEMs involved were BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, Keltron, Nova Integrated Systems from Tata, Elcome Marine, Johnson Controls India and many more.
  • Tamalwill join the ‘Sword Arm’ of the Indian Navy, the Western Fleet, under the Western Naval Command. It will not only be a symbol of Indian Navy’s growing capabilities, but also exemplifying collaborative strength of the India-Russia partnership.

Indian Contribution & Indigenisation:

• • Designed in collaboration with Severnoye Design Bureau, Russia.
  • Features 26% indigenous content, including key systems like BrahMos cruise missiles, BEL radars, and Nova Integrated Systems.
  • Over 33 Indian-origin systems, with participation from Bharat Electronics, Keltron, Elcome Marine, and others.

Capabilities & Armament:

• • Displacement: 3,900 tons; Length: 125 meters; Speed: 30+ knots.
  • Weapon Systems:
    • BrahMos (land and sea attack),
    • Vertically launched SAMs,
    • 100 mm main gun,
    • CIWS (30 mm),
    • Heavyweight torpedoes,
    • Anti-submarine rockets.

Operational Enhancements:

• • Enhanced stealth features, electronic warfare suite, and network-centric warfare capabilities.
  • Equipped to host AEW and MR helicopters.
  • Crew strength: 250+ personnel, trained in Kaliningrad & St. Petersburg.

Strategic & Defence Significance:

• • Strengthening India’s Maritime Power:
    • Augments India’s blue-water naval capabilities and aligns with the ‘Future Ready Force’ doctrine.
    • Enhances interoperability and equipment commonality across four frigate classes.
  • India-Russia Defence Collaboration:
    • Reflects the long-standing strategic partnership in defence, especially naval hardware.
    • India is concurrently building two Triput-class frigates at Goa Shipyard Limited with Russian design and ToT.
  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence:
    • Signals transition from import dependency to self-reliant warship production.
    • Provides a model for public-private collaboration in indigenous defence manufacturing.

 

INS Tamal is a technological marvel and diplomatic emblem, encapsulating India’s maritime ambition, indigenous defence manufacturing goals, and deep-rooted defence ties with Russia. It embodies India’s vision of being a combat-ready, credible, and future-ready maritime power in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

 

Source: PIB

Topic- 2: The Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995 (UMEED) Portal  

GS-3: Economy

The context:

The Ministry of Minority Affairs conducted a detailed review of the UMEED Central Portal, which mandates all waqf property details be uploaded within six months in Mumbai on June 21, 2025.

The Key Highlights:

• • The Ministry of Minority Affairs reviewed the implementation of the UMEED Portal in Maharashtra, emphasizing the mandatory uploading of waqf property details within six months.
  • The Secretary reviewed the status of PMJVK projects in the state and directed officials to submit all pending proposals within a week.
  • The successful conduct of Haj 2025, highlighting the lowest number of deaths and health-related incidents among Indian pilgrims.
  • The role of the Haj Suvidha App in improving pilgrim experiences and reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to digital empowerment and responsive governance.

About the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995 (UMEED) Portal:

• • It is a centralized digital platform to register Waqf properties across the country.
  • It aims to promote better management and enhance transparency.
  • The portal is being launched against the backdrop of the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which received presidential assent.
  • Registrations will be facilitated by respective State Waqf Boards.

Key Features of UMEED Portal

• • Under the new plan, all Waqf properties must be registered on the portal within six months of its launch.
  • Each registration must include full details such as measurements (length and width) and geotagged locations.
  • Properties that are registered under women’s names will not be eligible to be classified as Waqf properties.
  • However, women, children, and people from economically weaker sections will continue to be key beneficiaries of Waqf assets.
  • Properties not registered within the stipulated timeframe due to technical or other significant reasons may be granted an extension of one to two months.
  • However, properties that remain unregistered beyond the permitted period will be considered disputed and referred to the Waqf Tribunal for resolution.

About the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK):

• • It is a scheme aimed at addressing development deficits in Minority Concentration Areas (MCAs), identified using Census 2011 data on minority population, socio-economic indicators, and basic amenities.
  • It is a restructured version of the earlier Multi-Sectoral Development Programme (MsDP) run by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
  • The scheme supports States/UTs, Central Government Departments, CPSEs, Central/State Universities, and Armed Police Forces in proposing and executing development projects in MCAs.
  • 80% of PMJVK resources are allocated to education, health, and skill development, with 33–40% earmarked for facilities/assets benefiting women and girls.
  • The goal of PMJVK is to enhance infrastructure and bridge regional disparities in minority concentration areas to bring them on par with other parts of the country.

 

Source: PIB

Topic- 3: ₹2,000 Crore Emergency Contracts to Boost Army’s Counter-Terrorism Capabilities

GS-3: Internal Security

The context:

On 21^st June 2025, the Indian Army’s operational readiness in counter-terrorism (CT) operations, the Ministry of Defence has concluded thirteen contracts under the Emergency Procurement (EP) mechanism. These contracts, amounting to ₹1,981.90 crore, have been finalised against an overall sanctioned outlay of ₹2,000 crore for the Indian Army.

The Key Highlights:

• • The Ministry of Defence has concluded 13 contracts worth ₹1,981.90 crore under the Emergency Procurement (EP) mechanism to bolster counter-terrorism (CT) capabilities.
  • The procurements are part of a ₹2,000 crore sanctioned outlay exclusively for the Indian Army’s operational needs.
  • The contracts were executed through fast-track procedures to ensure rapid capability enhancement in CT operations.
  • The procurement aims to improve situational awareness, lethality, mobility, and protection for troops in hostile environments.

Key equipment being procured includes:

• • Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS)
  • Low Level Lightweight Radars (LLLR)
  • Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS)- Launchers and Missiles
  • Remotely Piloted Aerial Vehicles (RPAVs)
  • Loitering Munitions, including Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) systems
  • Various categories of drones
  • Bullet Proof Jackets (BPJs)
  • Ballistic Helmets
  • Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles (QRFVs) – Heavy and Medium
  • Night Sights for Rifles

 

Source: PIB

Topic- 4: India Opens Doors to Global EV Giants with Portal Launch under SPMEPCI

GS-3: Economy

The context:

On 24 June 2025, the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) launched the online application portal under the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI). The move marks a major policy thrust towards boosting electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing and foreign direct investment in the EV sector.

The Key Highlights:

• • The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has launched the application portal under the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI), which was officially notified on 15th March 2024.
  • The scheme is aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing of electric passenger cars in India.
  • It focuses on establishing India as a global hub for automotive manufacturing and innovation as a significant step in India’s journey towards clean, self-reliant, and future-ready mobility.
  • The initiative is guided by the vision of the Prime Minister of India. It opens new opportunities for global EV manufacturers to invest in India’s expanding automotive market.
  • The scheme supports India’s commitment to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070. It strengthens the pillars of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
  • SPMEPCI aims to promote sustainable and innovation-driven economic growth. The scheme is expected to attract foreign investment, especially from global EV manufacturers.
  • It is designed to help position India on the global EV manufacturing map.
  • The scheme will contribute to employment generation and help advance India’s manufacturing ecosystem.
  • Approved applicants will be allowed to import Completely Built Units (CBUs) of electric four-wheelers (e-4W) with a minimum CIF value of USD 35,000.
  • These CBUs can be imported at a reduced customs duty of 15% for five years from the date of application approval.
  • Applicants must commit to a minimum investment of ₹4,150 crore to qualify under the scheme.
  • The policy framework ensures calibrated customs duty concessions aligned with clearly defined domestic value addition (DVA)
  • These DVA milestones aim to introduce advanced EV technologies while nurturing indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
  • The scheme empowers global and domestic players to become active partners in India’s green mobility transformation.

About the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI):

• • The Government of India has introduced the SPMEPCI, spearheaded by the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI), to catalyze the growth of domestic electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing and position India as a key global EV production hub.

Objective

• • The primary goal of the scheme is to foster the local manufacturing of electric passenger vehicles (e-4W), reduce dependence on imports, and contribute to the country’s long-term environmental commitment, particularly the target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.

Eligibility Criteria

Participation in the scheme is restricted to companies or business groups that:

• • Have a minimum turnover of ₹10,000 crore from automotive manufacturing activities.
  • Possess at least ₹3,000 crore in fixed assets related to the automotive sector.

Key Features

• • Customs Duty Incentive

    Approved applicants will be eligible to import Completely Built Units (CBUs) of electric four-wheelers valued at a minimum of USD 35,000 at a reduced customs duty rate of 15%.

    • This benefit is applicable for five years from the date of approval.
    • A maximum of 8,000 units per year can be imported under this concession.

  • Investment Obligations

    Eligible entities must commit to investing at least ₹4,150 crore within a three-year period.

    • • This includes setting up manufacturing facilities and initiating production of electric vehicles within that timeframe.

  • Domestic Value Addition (DVA)

    Participants must meet the following localisation targets:

    • • 25% DVA within 3 years
      • 50% DVA within 5 years
        These thresholds are aligned with the requirements under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the automobile and auto components sector.

SPMEPCI is expected to:

• • Drive foreign direct investment (FDI) into India’s EV sector.
  • Accelerate technology transfer and innovation in clean mobility.
  • Generate employment opportunities in advanced manufacturing.
  • Strengthen India’s position as a trusted player in the global EV supply chain.

 

The scheme represents a strategic policy move to simultaneously address climate commitments, boost domestic manufacturing, and establish India as a leading destination for future-ready automotive technologies.

 

Source: PIB

Topic- 5: 100 Years of Dialogue Between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi

GS-1: History

The context:

Prime Minister of India addressed the centenary celebration of the historic dialogue between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on 24^th June 2025.

Background

• • The historic conversation between two of India’s greatest spiritual and moral leaders Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi took place at Sivagiri Mutt on 12 March 1925 during Mahatma Gandhi’s visit and centred around Vaikom Satyagraha, religious conversions, non-violence, abolition of untouchability, attainment of salvation, the uplift of the downtrodden among others.
  • Organised by Sree Narayana Dharma Sanghom Trust, the celebration will bring together spiritual leaders and other members to reflect upon and commemorate the visionary dialogue that continues to shape India’s social and moral fabric. It stands as a powerful tribute to the shared vision of social justice, unity, and spiritual harmony championed by both Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi.

The Highlighted the enduring significance of this meeting:

• • The centenary of the historic conversation between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi was commemorated as a milestone in India’s freedom struggle.
  • Sree Narayana Guru’s ideals were described as a timeless guide for humanity and social transformation.
  • The Guru’s fearless opposition to social evils during colonial times was recalled as a source of inspiration.
  • The philosophy of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” was linked to the Guru’s vision of harmony and equality.
  • A saturation-based approach to governance is being followed to eliminate all forms of discrimination.
  • Sivagiri Math’s historical and spiritual role was acknowledged, along with its trust and cooperation during national crises.
  • Varkala was referred to as the “Kashi of the South,” reinforcing unity across India’s spiritual geography.
  • India’s spiritual heritage was highlighted as a strength that consistently produced reformers during times of turmoil.
  • Sree Narayana Guru’s works like ‘Nivritti Panchakam’ and ‘Atmopadesa Satakam’ were praised for their philosophical depth.
  • The Guru’s integration of spirituality with social reform was recognized as a transformative force.
  • Contributions of Sree Narayana Guru to leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Ramana Maharshi were recalled.
  • The mantra “One caste, one religion, one God for mankind” was highlighted as a foundation for civilizational unity.
  • India’s global initiatives like One Earth, One Health and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam were linked to the Guru’s universal message.
  • Development programs such as PM Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, and PM Janman Yojana were credited with uplifting marginalized communities.
  • Women-led development was emphasized, along with removal of historical restrictions on women’s participation in various sectors.
  • Public participation in initiatives like Swachh Bharat, Amrit Sarovar, and millet awareness campaigns was celebrated.
  • The vision of enlightenment through education, strength through organisation, and prosperity through industry was aligned with national policy goals.
  • National Education Policy 2020 and expansion of institutions like IITs, AIIMS, and Eklavya schools were presented as examples of inclusive growth.
  • Operation Sindoor and indigenization of defence capabilities were cited as evidence of a strong, self-reliant India.

 

Source: PIB

Topic-6: 11 Years of Transformative Mining Reforms

GS-3: Economy

The context:

Over the past 11 years, India’s mining sector has undergone transformative reforms, aiming to unlock the country’s vast mineral wealth. The sector is now seen as a model of cooperative federalism, where the Centre and States are co-architects of progress, ensuring transparent governance and faster growth.

The Key Highlights:

First-Ever Potash Block Auctioned

• • India recently auctioned its first-ever potash block, a strategic move to reduce fertilizer import dependence and enhance food security.
  • This highlights the growing emphasis on leveraging mineral wealth for national development goals.

Legal Reforms Under MMDRA (2015–2023)

• • The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDRA) has been amended repeatedly to modernize policy and remove legacy constraints.
  • Key outcomes include:
    • Over 500 mineral blocks auctioned, including 119 blocks in the last year alone.
    • Shift to auction-based allocation has increased transparency and efficiency.

Enabling Private Sector Participation

• • The reforms replaced distrust with a facilitative environment:
    • Uniform 50-year leases
    • Removal of renewal bottlenecks
    • Seamless transfer of statutory clearances
    • Exploration licence regime, encouraging start-ups and MSMEs
  • The private sector is now seen as a risk-taking partner, enhancing innovation and agility.

Promoting Predictability and Investor Confidence

• • Several initiatives have made the sector predictable and investment-friendly:
    • National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) funding
    • Access to 12,000+ geological reports via National Geoscience Data Repository
    • Use of drones, Mining Tenement System (MTS), and faceless return filings
  • These steps have greatly enhanced ease of doing business in mining.

National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM)

• • The NCMM aims to make India a global leader in the critical minerals race, including lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements.
  • A thriving circular economy around these minerals is expected to boost sectors vital to Viksit Bharat.

Strategic Global Outreach

• • India is expanding its strategic mineral resource base globally:
    • Acquired lithium mines in Argentina
    • KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Ltd) is pursuing mineral assets abroad
  • India’s entry into offshore mineral mining marks a significant milestone.

Deepening Cooperative Federalism

• • Reforms have strengthened Centre-State cooperation, enabling States to:
    • Earn ₹4 lakh crore through auction premiums and royalties
    • Benefit from initiatives like:
      • State Mining Index
      • State Mineral Exploration Trust
      • District Mineral Foundation (DMF) — a successful example of Centre-State synergy in local area development

Faster Operationalisation of Mines

• • The government is working on a mission mode to reduce time from lease allocation to mine operationalisation.
  • The Ministry of Mines is actively hand-holding industry stakeholders to speed up processes.

Developing a Local Tech Ecosystem

• • A robust ecosystem for R&D and technology advancement in mining is being built:
    • Establishment of Centres of Excellence focused on critical minerals and recycling
    • Start-ups are being funded — for the first time in 62 years — for exploration and mineral processing R&D

Broader Economic Vision

• • With India now the world’s fourth-largest economy and aspiring to reach third place, a modern, sustainable mining sector is critical.
  • A revitalized mining sector will fuel industries of the future, such as renewables, electronics, EVs, and defence, ensuring India’s global economic prominence.

Conclusion:

The mining sector’s transformation is a testament to visionary policymaking, Centre-State synergy, private sector partnership, and strategic resource planning. As reforms continue, India’s mineral economy is poised to play a central role in national security, self-reliance, and global competitiveness.

 

Source: PIB

Topic-7: India’s Food Processing Sector: A Decade of Grassroots Transformation and Global Ambition

GS-3: Economy

The context:

On 24 June 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an article by Union Minister Shri Chirag Paswan highlighting the dynamic transformation of India’s food processing sector over the last 11 years. The focus has been on empowering rural entrepreneurs, increasing value addition, and integrating Indian produce into global markets.

The Key Highlights:

Sectoral Shift: Fragmentation to Formalisation

• • A decade ago, the sector suffered from:
    • Rampant post-harvest losses
    • Low value addition
    • Limited market access for farmers
  • Gross Value Addition increased from ₹1.34 lakh crore (2014) to ₹2.24 lakh crore (2025) due to sustained reforms.

Major Schemes Driving Transformation

a) Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana	• 1,604 projects sanctioned • ₹22,000+ crore private investment mobilized • 250+ lakh metric tonnes of annual processing capacity created • Benefited 53 lakh farmers • Created 76 lakh+ employment opportunities
b) PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME)	• Launched under Atmanirbhar Bharat with an outlay of ₹10,000 crore • 1.41 lakh loans worth ₹11,205 crore sanctioned • 3.3 lakh SHG members supported with seed capital • Over 1 lakh individuals trained • 75 incubation centres set up • 17 regional brands launched based on local products
c) Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Food Processing	• Attracted ₹8,900 crore committed investment • Created 3.3 lakh jobs • Added 67 lakh metric tonnes of processing capacity

 Success Stories from the Ground

• • Madhubani, Bihar:
    • Gyanish Mishra, supported by PMFME, turned makhana (foxnut) into a global snack brand.
  • Bastar, Chhattisgarh:
    • A tribal SHG transformed Mahua flowers into chocolates and energy bars, reaching national and international markets.

Infrastructure and Quality Assurance Push

• • Union Budget 2024–25 announced:
    • 50 multi-product irradiation units to reduce post-harvest losses
    • 100 NABL-accredited food testing labs for better quality assurance
  • Establishment of a National Makhana Board to promote this nutrient-rich Indian superfood globally

Innovation, Research, and Human Capital

• • Emphasis on AI-enabled traceability, sustainable packaging, and functional foods
  • Over 5,000 food-tech startups are innovating in areas like plant-based products
  • NIFTEM Institutes (Kundli, Thanjavur, and a new one in Bihar) are developing a skilled food-tech workforce

Global Engagement and Export Orientation

• • World Food India serves as a flagship platform to:
    • Attract international investment
    • Showcase India’s strengths in food processing
    • Promote collaboration with global stakeholders

Inclusive Growth and Cooperative Federalism

• • The transformation is rooted in grassroots empowerment
  • Micro-entrepreneurs from Kashmir to Andaman are being integrated into formal value chains, enabling:
    • Local employment
    • Preservation of heritage
    • Global market access

Conclusion:

The government envisions a future where every shelf worldwide carries Indian products Behind each product lies a story of local innovation, rural prosperity, and national pride. India’s food processing sector is set to become a pillar of Viksit Bharat.

 

Source: PIB

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