Digest for 25 September, 2025
US Urges India to Cease Russian Oil Imports Amid Tariff Pressure
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright publicly called for India to stop buying discounted Russian oil, stating it funds the war in Ukraine. This highlights growing friction, as the Trump administration recently imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods over this issue. While the US claims it doesn't want to punish India, the move underscores a significant diplomatic and economic challenge for New Delhi, which maintains its imports are vital for its energy security and are governed by market dynamics.
CBSE to Hold Class 10 Board Exams Twice a Year in Major Reform
In a landmark decision, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year, starting from the 2026 session. Students will have the option to take a second exam in May-June to improve their scores from the initial February-March session, with the better of the two results being retained. The move, affecting millions of students, aims to reduce exam-related stress and provide a second opportunity without waiting for supplementary exams.
Cabinet Approves ₹69,725 Crore Package to Revitalise Shipbuilding Sector
The Union Cabinet has approved a substantial ₹69,725 crore package to boost India's shipbuilding and maritime industry. The four-pillar plan aims to enhance domestic capacity, provide long-term financing through a new Maritime Development Fund, and implement policy reforms. The government projects the initiative will unlock significant shipbuilding capacity, create nearly 3 million jobs, attract ₹4.5 lakh crore in investment, and strengthen national security under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision.
India Enhances Strategic Mobility with Agni-Prime Missile Rail-Based Test
India has successfully test-fired its next-generation Agni-Prime ballistic missile from a rail-based mobile launcher for the first time. The missile, with a range of up to 2,000 km, can now be transported across the country's rail network, significantly enhancing strategic mobility and reducing reaction time. This development marks a key advancement in the country's nuclear deterrent capabilities, allowing for greater operational flexibility and survivability of its strategic assets.
71 Maoist Militants Surrender in Chhattisgarh in Major Setback to Insurgency
In a significant blow to left-wing extremism, 71 Maoist cadres, including 21 women and 30 carrying large bounties, have surrendered to authorities in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district. The mass surrender is attributed to the success of the state's rehabilitation campaign, 'Lon Varratu', and disillusionment with the rebel ideology. This event follows the recent killing of two senior Maoist leaders and marks a major success for security forces in the conflict-ridden Bastar region.