Digest for 08 August, 2025
US Halts Trade Talks with India, Doubles Tariffs to 50%
The US has suspended trade negotiations with India and imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, bringing the total to 50%. The new levy, a response to India's Russian oil purchases, will take effect on August 27. President Donald Trump stated talks will not resume until the tariff dispute is resolved. India has called the move "unjustified and unreasonable," promising to take necessary measures to protect its economic interests, causing the rupee to fall against the dollar.
Supreme Court Withdraws Unprecedented Order Barring HC Judge from Criminal Cases
The Supreme Court has recalled its own controversial order that had restrained Allahabad High Court Justice Prashant Kumar from hearing criminal cases until his retirement. The reversal came after a request from Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai and protests from Allahabad HC judges. The initial order, which criticized the judge for passing "perverse" orders, had created an unusual standoff within the judiciary. The SC bench, while withdrawing the directive, left the matter to the High Court's Chief Justice.
NSA Doval Meets Putin in Moscow to Deepen Strategic Ties
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in Moscow to bolster the India-Russia strategic partnership. The high-level talks focused on regional security, defence cooperation, and preparations for an upcoming bilateral summit in India, which Doval confirmed is scheduled for late August. The visit underscores the continued importance of the relationship between New Delhi and Moscow amid shifting global dynamics and trade tensions with the West.
Tamil Nadu Launches State Education Policy, Reaffirming Two-Language Formula
Tamil Nadu has officially released its own State Education Policy, which notably reiterates the state's long-standing two-language formula of teaching only Tamil and English in schools. The policy, formulated by a committee led by retired Justice D. Murugesan, stands in direct contrast to the three-language model proposed by the central government's National Education Policy. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin stated the policy is designed to foster critical thinking over memorization and reflects the state's unique cultural character.
Rescue Efforts Intensify in Uttarkashi as Flood Toll Rises
Rescue operations are ongoing in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district following devastating flash floods that have killed at least five people, with over 50 still missing, including nine army personnel. The floods, triggered by intense rain, destroyed homes and infrastructure, cutting off several villages. The Army, NDRF, and SDRF have rescued over 270 people, airlifting many to safety. Efforts are focused on clearing debris and reaching those trapped in the worst-hit areas like Dharali and Harsil.