Welcome to India’s Policy Pulse, your comprehensive fortnightly tracker delving into the Central Government’s economic and policy decisions during the crucial period spanning July 1st to July 15th, 2025. This in-depth analysis serves as a vital resource for understanding the multifaceted initiatives shaping India’s socio-economic landscape. During this fortnight, a series of strategic updates and announcements were rolled out, touching upon critical sectors ranging from robust economic reforms and advanced infrastructure development to crucial human development programs, enhanced national security measures, and transformative changes in the rural and agricultural domains. Our aim is to provide a clear, professional, and eloquent overview of these pivotal policies, illuminating their potential impact and the direction they set for the nation’s progress.
I. Economic Growth and Structural Reforms -
A. Policy Updates :
Launch of ‘Upkaran’ E-Portal For Inventory And Machinery Management -Ministry of Steel:
Source : Click Here
MSTC has launched the ‘Upkaran’ E-Portal, an end-to-end digital marketplace for inventory and machinery management across government departments. This initiative aims to institutionalize a transparent mechanism for public asset procurement and management, unlocking significant economic value from idle capital goods by creating a formal national market.
Coal Mine Revived Under MDO Model - Ministry of Coal:
Source : Click Here
Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) successfully restarted coal production under the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) model, marking it as the first operational MDO mine within the Coal India Limited (CIL) group. This public-private partnership aims to reduce import dependency, introduce advanced mining technologies, and ensure sustainable resource utilization, furthering the goal of a “Self-Reliant” India.
Next-Generation Bullet Train Project - Ministry of Railways:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Railways announced a major milestone for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project with the opening of the first 21 km undersea tunnel section. In a strategic India-Japan partnership, the next-generation E10 Shinkansen trains, capable of 400 km/h, will debut in India, representing a significant leap in high-speed rail technology and reducing travel time.
B. Announcements :
Centre Grants Section 54EC Tax Benefit Status to IREDA Bonds - Ministry of New and Renewable Energy:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Finance has classified bonds issued by the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) as a “long-term specified asset” under section 54EC of the Income-tax Act, 1961, granting tax exemptions to investors. The primary objective is to mobilize investment for renewable energy projects, holding significant importance for risk-averse investors.
Capacity Building Initiatives Worth 270 Crore - Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways launched significant capacity-building initiatives at Visakhapatnam Port, including a new Bow-Ramp and Finger Jetty and Wharf. These projects are crucial for strengthening cargo handling capabilities, overcoming fragmented logistics, and enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of Indian ports.
II. Infrastructure, Technology and Sustainability -
A. Policy Updates :
Approval for Construction of 4-Lane Paramakudi-Ramanathapuram Section (NH-87) - Ministry of Road Transport and Highways:
Source : Click Here
The Union Cabinet approved the construction of the 46.7 km Paramakudi-Ramanathapuram section of NH-87 in Tamil Nadu under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM), with a capital investment of ₹1,853 crore. This project will upgrade the existing 2-lane road to a 4-lane highway, easing congestion, improving connectivity to key transport hubs, and is expected to generate significant direct and indirect employment.
Draft Released to Modernise Television Ratings Points (TRP) - Ministry of Information and Broadcasting:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry has released draft amendments to the 2014 TRP guidelines, aiming to reform the outdated television rating system. The draft removes entry barriers for new rating agencies and addresses limitations in tracking viewership on smart TVs and streaming platforms with only 58,000 people meters currently measuring a base of 230 million TV households. The proposed changes seek to enable competition, improve data accuracy, and align ratings with evolving content consumption.
RBI’s Landmark Step In Cyber Fraud Prevention - Ministry of Communications:
Source : Click Here
The RBI has directed all Scheduled Commercial Banks, Small Finance Banks, Payments Banks, and Co-operative Banks to integrate the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) developed by the Department of Telecommunications into their systems. This will accelerate fraud detection by integrating telecom intelligence into the nation’s financial sector.
Release of Draft Petroleum & Natural Gas Rules, 2025 - Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas:
Source : Click Here
The Draft Petroleum & Natural Gas Rules, 2025 have been released for public consultation, aiming to replace outdated rules and modernize India’s upstream oil and gas regulatory framework. Key reforms include an investor-friendly stabilization clause, third-party access to underutilized infrastructure, and permission for integrated renewable and low-carbon projects.
Enhancement Of Train Safety With Artificial Intelligence Based Inspection System - Ministry of Railways:
Source : Click Here
Indian Railways, in partnership with DFCCIL, is installing the Machine Vision Based Inspection System (MVIS), an AI/ML-based technology to enhance train safety. This system will capture high-resolution images of moving trains’ under-gear to detect missing or loose components and generate real-time alerts, automating inspections and preventing disruptions.
Launch of RailOne App for Unified Passenger Services - Ministry of Railways:
Source : Click Here
The Union Minister launched the RailOne mobile application, a digital platform integrating services like unreserved ticketing, live train tracking, grievance redressal, e-catering, and taxi access. Alongside, the Modern Passenger Reservation System (PRS) is being developed to support 1.5 lakh ticket bookings and 40 lakh inquiries per minute by December 2025.
Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments (ADEETIE) Scheme - Ministry of Power:
Source : Click Here
The ADEETIE scheme is a comprehensive program to aid MSMEs in adopting energy-efficient technologies, providing end-to-end support including technical assistance for energy audits, project report preparation, and financial incentives. It will initially target 14 energy-intensive sectors across 60 industrial clusters, enabling export-oriented MSMEs to maintain their global market position.
B. Announcements :
TRAI Releases Findings of Independent Drive Tests (IDT) - Ministry of Communications:
Source : Click Here
TRAI released findings from IDT conducted in May 2025 across 13 cities, revealing regional disparities in mobile network service quality. This public benchmarking aims to incentivize telecom companies to improve infrastructure in underperforming areas. The findings revealed significant regional disparities in service quality, with cities like Panipat and Ayodhya showing strong performance while others like Ranchi and Ahmedabad had higher call drop rates and lagged on setup success rates. This public benchmarking creates reputational incentives for telecom companies to improve their infrastructure in underperforming areas.
Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) Launches SAKSHAM-3000 Switch-Cum-Router - Ministry of Communications:
Source : Click Here
C-DOT launched SAKSHAM-3000, a switch-cum-router with a throughput of 25.6 Tb/s, competing with global leaders. Built with AI, cloud, and 5G/6G network support, it aims to boost India’s digital infrastructure and self-reliance in telecom hardware.
Quantum Leap in Magnetometry - Ministry of Science and Development:
Source : Click Here
The Department of Science and Technology developed a new technology capable of measuring magnetic forces without bulky shielding, suitable for outdoor, industrial, and clinical environments. It offers applications like an alternative to MRI, detecting underground mineral deposits, and sensing magnetic fields in space, significantly advancing India’s Quantum Tech ambition.
A Unified Inundation Forecasting System - Ministry of Jal Shakti:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Jal Shakti inaugurated C-FLOOD, a new web-based platform offering a two-day advance forecast for inundation with village-level maps and water level predictions. This enhances India’s Early Warning Systems and strengthens proactive disaster management efforts.
III. Human Development and Social Welfare -
A. Policy Updates :
Tax Benefits Available Under NPS Apply Mutatis Mutandis to UPS - Ministry of Finance:
Source : Click Here
The Department of Financial Services had notified introduction of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) as an option under National Pension System (NPS) for the recruits to the Central Government civil service w.e.f. 01.04.2025, giving a one-time option to the Central Government employees covered under the NPS for inclusion under the UPS. To promote the option for UPS, tax benefits will now apply to UPS holders as well, albeit with a few necessary changes. This move aims to ensure parity among existing NPS stakeholders and significantly strengthens retirement security for Central Government Employees by advancing pension reforms.
Approval of National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025 - Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports:
Source : Click Here
The Union Cabinet approved the National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025, superseding the 2001 policy. It aims to strengthen sports from grassroots to elite levels through early talent identification, competitive leagues, infrastructure development, and world-class coaching systems, integrating sports education with NEP 2020 and promoting PPPs. This policy is expected to position India as a serious contender in global sports, including the 2036 Olympic Games.
Holistic Excellence of Eklavya Model Residential Schools Students - Ministry of Tribal Affairs:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched the Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub (TALASH) program to foster the holistic development of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) students. TALASH offers psychometric assessments, career counseling, life skills training, and e-learning for teachers, aligning with NEP 2020 to provide inclusive education and equal opportunities.
B. Announcements :
Expansion of Social Security Coverage - Ministry of Labour and Employment:
Source : Click Here
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) launched the Scheme for Promotion of Registration of Employers and Employees (SPREE). This scheme offers a one-time opportunity for unregistered employees, including contractual and temporary workers, to easily enroll, demonstrating ESIC’s commitment to Universal Social Protection by integrating the Gig Economy.
First National Level Co-operative University - Ministry of Co-operation:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Cooperation announced the establishment of the First National Level Co-operative University, Tribhuvan Sahkari University, in Anand, Gujarat. Based on NEP 2020, it will offer various courses and aims to train around 20 lakh personnel of Cooperative Societies in the next 5 years, aligning with the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025).
Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) 50,000 Jobs in FY 2025-26 - Ministry of Railways:
Source : Click Here
RRB is undertaking a massive recruitment drive, having issued over 9,000 appointments in Q1 FY 2025-26, with plans to fill more than 50,000 vacancies this year. To ensure transparency, Aadhaar-based e-KYC is used for identity authentication, and exam centers are equipped with jammers to prevent electronic cheating, boosting public sector employment and reinforcing trust in the railway recruitment process.
IV. National Security and Foreign Policy -
A. Policy Updates :
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) Approves Indigenous Defence Acquisitions - Ministry of Defence:
Source : Click Here
The DAC approved Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 10 capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹1.05 lakh crore. These include procurement of Armoured Recovery Vehicles, Surface-to-Air Missiles, Electronic Warfare Systems, and Integrated Common Inventory Management Systems for Tri-Services, aiming to strengthen operational readiness and reinforce ‘Make in India’ in defence.
B. Announcements :
Delivery of INS Udaygiri - Ministry of Defence:
Source : Click Here
INS Udaygiri, the second of seven Project 17A stealth frigates, was delivered to the Indian Navy by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) on July 1, 2025. This vessel reflects indigenous defence capabilities with inputs from over 200 MSMEs, generating over 14,000 direct and indirect jobs and promoting Aatmanirbharta in defence manufacturing.
Commissioning of INS Tamal Stealth Frigate - Ministry of Defence:
Source : Click Here
INS Tamal (F71), the eighth frigate of Project 1135.6 and second of the Tushil class, was commissioned on July 1, 2025, at Yantar Shipyard, Russia. With 26% indigenous content including BrahMos missiles and Humsa-NG sonar, the ship integrates Indian and Russian technologies into a network-centric combat platform capable of blue water operations across various domains.
Successful ERASR User Trials Conducted - Ministry of Defence:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Defence successfully conducted user trials of the indigenously developed Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) from INS Kavaratti. Designed for Indian Naval Ships’ Indigenous Rocket Launcher (IRL), this initiative will significantly boost the Navy’s striking power and precision capabilities.
The Indian Navy Commissioned NISTAR For Diving And Submarine Operations - Ministry of Defence:
Source : Click Here
The Indian Navy has commissioned Nistar, the first of its indigenous Diving Support Vessels (DSV). Designed to support deep-sea diving and submarine rescue operations, Nistar is equipped with an Operation Theatre, ICU, eight-bedded hospital, and hyperbaric medical facilities. With over 80% indigenous content, its commissioning marks a significant step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat and strengthens India’s strategic maritime posture in the Indian Ocean Region.
V. Rural and Agricultural Transformation -
A. Policy Updates :
Aspirational District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Programme Launched In Line With PMKKKY - Ministry Of Mines:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Mines launched the ‘Aspirational DMF Programme’ to integrate District Mineral Funds (DMFs) with the Aspirational District Programme (ADP) and Aspirational Block Programme (ABP). This initiative, which saw participation from 152 DMFs and 62 District Collectors, aims to boost socio-economic outcomes in mining-affected areas. By emphasizing convergence, transparency, and innovation, the program aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) and is expected to significantly improve last-mile development through its integration with national flagship initiatives and local governance structures.
Regulatory Framework for Biostimulants - Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare:
Source : Click Here
A comprehensive review of all biostimulants in the market has been mandated to protect farmers from ineffective and fraudulent products. Product approvals will now be granted only after rigorous scientific validation by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The ministry will establish clear SOPs and curb mis-selling, with potential proliferation of this model to regulate other products like seeds and nano fertilizers.
B. Announcements :
Inauguration Of Agritech Innovation Hub - Ministry of Education:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Education inaugurated the Uttar Pradesh Agritech Innovation Hub and Agritech Startup and Technology Showcase at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology (SVPUAT). This initiative promotes chemical-free and natural farming with IoT-enabled sensors, smart irrigation, automation, and real-time analytics, aiming to double farmer income and set a precedent for other universities.
VI. Miscellaneous Policy Updates -
A. Policy Updates :
Digital Studio “Shrishti” - Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions:
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions launched a state-of-the-art digital studio “Shrishti” at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), Delhi. This initiative aims to enhance content creation, capacity building, and knowledge dissemination for government functionaries and scholars, fostering a more integrated, efficient, and responsive governance system.
Workplace Advisory on Oil and Sugar Consumption - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare:
Source : Click Here
An advisory has been issued for workplaces to display informational ‘Oil and Sugar Boards’ in canteens, lobbies, and meeting rooms. This initiative is designed as a behavioural nudge to raise awareness about the harmful effects of hidden fats and excess sugar in common food items, without imposing mandatory warning labels on specific products or targeting traditional Indian foods. This initiative strategically targets workplaces to cover high-risk demography and shifts responsibility for employee wellness onto corporations.
B. Announcements :
First Internationally Recognised Equine Disease-Free Compartment - Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying :
Source : Click Here
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has globally recognized India’s first Equine Disease-Free Compartment (EDFC) in Meerut Cantonment, Uttar Pradesh. This recognition highlights India’s adherence to international best practices in biosecurity, strengthening its animal health systems, and significantly boosting its standing within the international equestrian community while promoting export readiness.
Supercharged Green Energy Material - Ministry of Science and Technology :
Source : Click Here
Indian Researchers have developed a next-generation energy storage material that promises more efficient and sustainable energy storage systems. A collaborative effort between the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru and Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), the team engineered this material by injecting Lanthanum into Silver Niobate Nanoparticles. This innovation significantly improves electricity conduction, indicating its potential for real-world applications and aligning with the global push for energy-efficient storage solutions.
Hub and Spoke Centre of Excellence Inaugurated - Ministry of Communications :
Source : Click Here
The VTU-VRIF-TCOE Hub and Spoke of Excellence has been inaugurated by the Ministry of Communications. This hub represents a strategic collaboration between Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), the Visvesvaraya Research and Innovation Foundation (VRIF), and Telecom Centres of Excellence (TCOE) India. Its core objective is to cultivate an innovative ecosystem, particularly in the areas of 5G/6G communications, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), Augmented and Virtual Reality, and quantum computing. This initiative is poised to serve as a vital platform for pioneering research and the incubation of startups, underscoring a strong collaboration between industry and academia.
Professional Development Programs in Cybersecurity To Be Launched - Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology :
Source : Click Here
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), through its Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), has partnered with the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani Group to launch Professional Development Programs in Cybersecurity. This 8-week program is designed to equip professionals from Government, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and industry with crucial cybersecurity skills. This collaboration underscores India’s dedication to cultivating a highly skilled talent pool, representing a significant stride in strengthening the nation’s cyber defense capabilities and fostering a dynamic synergy between industry demands and academic excellence.
Indigenous Development of Advanced Carbon Fibre Foot Prosthesis - Ministry of Defence :
Source : Click Here
Under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, DRDO and AIIMS Bibinagar have collaborated to create ADIDOC, a high-performance, cost-effective carbon fibre foot prosthesis. This domestically developed product is projected to cost under ₹20,000, significantly less than similar imported prostheses, which can cost up to ₹2 lakh. This initiative demonstrates the defence sector’s effective application of its research and engineering expertise to address vital public health issues and foster a domestic ecosystem for advanced medical technology manufacturing.
Women-Led Initiatives led by Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) in Healthcare and Technical Services - Ministry of Coal
Source : Click Here
BCCL has introduced two groundbreaking initiatives in Dhanbad aimed at fostering women’s leadership in non-traditional fields. These programs seek to dismantle gender barriers in male-dominated sectors. The first initiative involves an entire hospital shift operated exclusively by women. The second is the establishment of a centralized technical center for repairing LED and solar equipment. The inclusion of women technicians in the LED and solar sector contributes to the development of a skilled female workforce and strengthens internal capacity for a post-coal future.
VII. Key Takeaways -
Driving Economic Modernization and Infrastructure Development: Firstly, the government has placed a strong emphasis on modernizing India’s economic and infrastructural backbone. This includes the launch of the ‘Upkaran’ E-Portal to streamline government asset management and the revival of the Coal Mine under the MDO model, signaling a strategic shift towards public-private partnerships for resource optimization. Secondly, significant advancements in transportation infrastructure are evident with the progress on the next-generation Bullet Train project, featuring the opening of an undersea tunnel and the introduction of high-speed E10 Shinkansen trains, alongside the approval of critical highway expansions like the Paramakudi-Ramanathapuram section. Furthermore, initiatives like granting Section 54EC tax benefits to IREDA bonds underscore a push towards green energy financing, while capacity building at ports aims to enhance logistics efficiency.
Fostering Technological Integration and Digital Transformation: Firstly, a clear priority is given to leveraging technology for improved governance and public services. This is exemplified by the RBI’s landmark step to integrate the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator into banking systems for enhanced cyber fraud prevention, and the Ministry of Railways’ adoption of AI-based Machine Vision Inspection Systems for greater train safety. Secondly, digital platforms are being expanded to improve citizen-centric services, with the launch of the RailOne App for unified passenger services and the development of a high-capacity Modern Passenger Reservation System. Additionally, investments in cutting-edge research are evident with C-DOT launching advanced switch-cum-routers, and breakthroughs in quantum magnetometry by the Department of Science and Technology, signaling India’s ambition in advanced technologies.
Advancing Human Development and Social Security: Firstly, the government is committed to enhancing the welfare and security of its citizens through various social and educational reforms. This includes extending NPS tax benefits to the Unified Pension Scheme, providing greater financial security for central government employees. Secondly, significant strides are being made in sports development with the approval of the National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025, aimed at strengthening sports from grassroots to elite levels, and fostering holistic development for tribal students through programs like TALASH in Eklavya Model Residential Schools. Moreover, the expansion of social security coverage via ESIC’s SPREE scheme and the establishment of the First National Level Co-operative University underscore a dedication to inclusive growth and skill development.
Strengthening National Security and Defence Capabilities: Firstly, there is a resolute focus on bolstering indigenous defence manufacturing and operational readiness. This is highlighted by the Defence Acquisition Council’s approval of substantial indigenous capital acquisition proposals, reinforcing the ‘Make in India’ initiative in defence. Secondly, the induction of advanced naval assets like the INS Udaygiri (a stealth frigate) and the commissioning of INS Tamal further enhance the Indian Navy’s capabilities for blue water operations. The successful user trials of the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) and the commissioning of the indigenous Diving Support Vessel NISTAR demonstrate a commitment to technological superiority and self-reliance in critical defence areas.
Transforming Rural Economy and Agricultural Practices: Firstly, policies are being designed to empower rural communities and modernize the agricultural sector. The launch of the Aspirational District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Programme aligns mining-affected areas with broader development goals, ensuring last-mile impact. Secondly, the government is focusing on safeguarding farmers’ interests and promoting sustainable practices through a robust regulatory framework for biostimulants, requiring rigorous scientific validation to curb fraudulent products. Furthermore, the inauguration of the Uttar Pradesh Agritech Innovation Hub signifies a commitment to leveraging technology for chemical-free farming, smart irrigation, and real-time analytics, aiming to double farmer income and set new precedents for agricultural innovation.
VIII. Conclusion -
This edition of India’s Policy Pulse, covering July 1st to July 15th, 2025, unequivocally highlights a profoundly dynamic and proactive phase for India, characterized by a robust array of policy implementations and strategic announcements. The government’s comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, encompassing accelerated economic growth, modernized infrastructure, prioritized human development, bolstered national security, and transformative agricultural reforms, clearly demonstrates a concerted effort towards sustained national progress and enhanced resilience. These collective endeavors not only underscore a clear vision for an inclusive, technologically advanced, and secure India but also firmly position the nation for continued robust growth and a more prominent leadership role on the global stage.