Digest for 11 September, 2025
US Urges EU to Impose Up to 100% Tariffs on India and China
US President Donald Trump has reportedly asked the European Union to impose tariffs of up to 100% on India and China for purchasing Russian crude oil. The move is intended to increase economic pressure on Moscow to end the war in Ukraine. According to the Financial Times, a US official stated Washington was prepared to "mirror" any tariffs imposed by the EU. This demand comes amid a downturn in US-India trade relations and challenges India's policy of buying discounted Russian oil to meet its energy needs.
Conservative Activist and Trump Ally Charlie Kirk Assassinated at US University
Charlie Kirk, a prominent 31-year-old conservative activist and close ally of US President Donald Trump, was shot and killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. The co-founder of Turning Point USA was reportedly shot in the neck while on stage. The incident, which Utah's governor called a "political assassination," has sent shockwaves through the US, escalating concerns over political violence. A manhunt for the shooter is underway, as President Trump blamed the "radical left" for the killing.
Fitch Raises India's FY26 Growth Forecast to 6.9%
Global ratings agency Fitch has upgraded India's economic growth forecast for the 2025-26 fiscal year to 6.9%, up from its previous estimate of 6.5%. The revision follows a stronger-than-expected GDP expansion of 7.8% in the second quarter of 2025. Fitch cited strong domestic demand as the primary driver of growth but warned that trade frictions with the US could dampen business sentiment. This optimistic forecast positions India's projected growth as the highest among its peers.
ISRO Transfers Small Satellite Launch Vehicle Technology to HAL
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has signed an agreement to transfer the technology for its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This marks a major step in involving private industry in India's space sector. The deal, facilitated by IN-SPACe, will enable HAL to independently manufacture and launch SSLVs for domestic and international markets. The technology transfer is expected to be completed within 24 months, boosting India’s position in the global small-satellite launch market.
Activist Umar Khalid Challenges Bail Denial in Supreme Court
Activist Umar Khalid has approached the Supreme Court to challenge the Delhi High Court's decision to deny him bail. Khalid was arrested under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with an alleged conspiracy behind the February 2020 Delhi riots. The High Court had rejected his plea, along with those of eight other accused, citing the need to prevent "conspiratorial violence under the garb of demonstrations." The case is a significant test of UAPA's application and civil liberties.