Digest for 15 August, 2025
India Hardens Stance on Cross-Border Terrorism, Citing 'Operation Sindoor'
In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a stern warning that India will no longer differentiate between terrorists and those who support them, establishing a "new normal" in its security policy. He hailed the success of 'Operation Sindoor', the military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, as a decisive blow to terror infrastructure in Pakistan. He also announced the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, stating that "blood and water will not flow together."
Government to Launch National Mission to Counter 'Demographic Change'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of a high-powered 'demographic mission' to address what he described as a "pre-meditated conspiracy" of illegal infiltration aimed at changing India's demography. Speaking from the Red Fort, he warned that such changes, especially in border areas, create a national security crisis, sow social tension, and affect the country's unity and progress. The mission will be tasked with tackling this issue within a set timeframe, asserting that no nation can tolerate intruders.
S&P Upgrades India's Sovereign Credit Rating for First Time in 18 Years
S&P Global Ratings has upgraded India's long-term sovereign credit rating to 'BBB' from 'BBB-', the first such upgrade since 2007. The agency cited the country's robust economic growth, fiscal consolidation, and effective monetary policy. The upgrade is expected to lower borrowing costs for Indian companies in international markets. S&P noted that India remains one of the world's best-performing economies and stated that the impact of potential US tariffs would be manageable due to the economy's strong domestic focus.
First Domestically Produced Semiconductor Chip to Launch by Year-End
India is set to launch its first 'Made-in-India' semiconductor chip by the end of this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Independence Day. This marks a significant milestone in the country's mission for technological self-reliance. The Prime Minister noted that six semiconductor units are already established and four more have been approved, signalling rapid progress in a sector critical for everything from mobile phones to electric vehicles. This development aims to reduce dependency on foreign manufacturers and boost domestic industry.
US Links Tariffs on India to Pressure on Russia Ahead of Trump-Putin Summit
US President Donald Trump has claimed that imposing tariffs on India for its Russian oil purchases successfully pressured Moscow into seeking talks. Ahead of a high-stakes summit in Alaska with Vladimir Putin, Trump stated that the tariffs made Russia lose its "second largest customer," prompting the meeting. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that these tariffs could be increased if the talks do not go well. India's Ministry of External Affairs has endorsed the summit, hoping it will lead to peace in Ukraine.