National Affairs

On 5th September 2025, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council implemented significant structural reforms by introducing a two-tier GST rate structure comprising 5% and 18% slabs, effective from 22nd September 2025. Essential items and commodities beneficial for common citizens have been moved to the lower 5% slab, while the 18% slab covers most consumer goods and services. The council exempted life and health insurance premiums from GST and levied a 40% tax on tobacco products and cigarettes to curb consumption of sin goods.

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) topped the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, showcasing its excellence in academics, research, and innovation. IISc Bengaluru secured second position, while IIT Mumbai stood third, highlighting the growing competitiveness and quality of premier Indian technical institutions.

NITI Aayog CEO B. V. R. Subrahmanyam emphasized the importance of owning frontier technologies, especially 2D materials, that can potentially replace silicon in Indian semiconductor manufacturing. He highlighted the critical role such materials would play in strengthening India's position as a leader in semiconductor production and cutting-edge technologies.

India and Singapore signed five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering collaboration in aviation, space, digital assets, skills development, and green shipping. These agreements aim to further deepen bilateral cooperation and enhance capabilities in emerging sectors aligned with sustainable growth and Indo-Pacific strategic interests.

The Kuki-Zo groups in Manipur agreed to extend their suspension of operations under the tripartite understanding with the Union Government and state, allowing the reopening of National Highway-2. The agreement fosters peace and territorial integrity within the region, facilitating smooth movement and economic activity.

International Affairs

The ongoing floods in northwestern India, notably in Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir, severely damaged more than 110 kilometers of the India-Pakistan border fence and inundated over 90 Border Security Force (BSF) posts. Authorities are continuously monitoring and undertaking relief operations to manage the situation while ensuring border security.

India’s infant mortality rate reached a historic low of 25 per 1000 live births as per the Sample Registration System (SRS) 2023 data, reflecting significant improvements in healthcare access and child survival rates nationwide over the last decade.

Business and Economy

The reforms in GST rates expect to boost overall consumption by reducing the tax burden on essential commodities. However, certain taxable items like increased levies on coal and sugary drinks might impact related industries. The market reacted with movements in the shares of Coal India, Tata Power, and Varun Beverages following the tax amendments.

Karnataka emerged as a major investment hub, attracting over Rs 12 trillion in investment proposals from 2021 to 2025, according to a report by the MSME Council. This highlights substantial growth potential and investor confidence in the state’s industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Science and Technology

With technology-driven reforms in sectors like semiconductor manufacturing, India is actively progressing toward reducing reliance on imports. Investments in frontier materials and digital infrastructure continue to be prioritized as part of the country’s technology sovereignty strategy.

Sports

Veteran Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra announced his retirement from all forms of professional cricket after an illustrious career spanning over two decades. His contributions to Indian cricket, especially in the IPL and international matches, have been widely appreciated.

Important Days

The nation also observed Teachers’ Day on 5th September 2025, celebrating the contributions of educators in shaping the youth and society with numerous cultural programs and awareness campaigns aimed at promoting quality education across all states.