TNPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – SEPTEMBER 2, 2025

🇮🇳 NATIONAL AFFAIRS

PM Modi’s Participation in 25th SCO Summit in Tianjin, China

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the 25th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), held in Tianjin, China, from 31 August to 1 September 2025
• Emphasis on multilateral cooperation for regional stability and economic development
• Bilateral meetings conducted on sidelines including discussions with Myanmar’s leadership on border security
• India’s commitment to SCO charter principles of mutual trust and neighborly relations
• Counter-terrorism cooperation framework strengthened through intelligence sharing mechanisms
• Energy security partnership discussions focus on diversified supply chains and renewable energy
• Trade facilitation measures proposed to boost intra-SCO commerce to $500 billion by 2030
• Cultural and people-to-people exchanges enhanced through educational and tourism initiatives

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Overview:
  • Establishment: June 15, 2001 in Shanghai
  • Founding Members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
  • Current Members: 9 full members (India and Pakistan joined 2017, Iran 2023)
  • Observer States: Afghanistan, Belarus, Mongolia
• SCO Organizational Structure:
  • Council of Heads of State: Supreme decision-making body
  • Council of Heads of Government: Economic cooperation coordination
  • SCO Secretariat: Beijing (administrative organ)
  • Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure: Tashkent (security coordination)
• India’s SCO Journey:
  • 2005: Observer status granted
  • 2017: Full membership alongside Pakistan
  • Key Interests: Energy security, counter-terrorism, trade facilitation
  • Contributions: IT expertise, pharmaceutical sector, space technology
• SCO Principles and Objectives:
  • Shanghai Spirit: Mutual trust, equality, consultation, respect for diversity
  • Non-alignment: No military blocs or alliances
  • Regional Security: Counter-terrorism, separatism, extremism
  • Economic Cooperation: Trade, investment, connectivity projects
• Economic Dimensions:
  • Combined GDP: $23+ trillion (30% of global GDP)
  • Population: 3.2+ billion (42% of world population)
  • Trade Volume: $220+ billion intra-SCO commerce
  • Energy Resources: 25% of world’s oil reserves, 50% gas reserves
• India’s Strategic Interests:
  • Energy Security: Access to Central Asian energy resources
  • Connectivity: International North-South Transport Corridor
  • Counter-terrorism: Regional security cooperation
  • Economic Integration: Market access for Indian goods and services

Semicon India 2025 Conference Launch by PM Modi

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Semicon India – 2025 at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi today. The three-day Conference will focus on advancing a robust, resilient, and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem in the country
• Global semiconductor industry leaders participate in comprehensive discussions on technology partnerships
• Focus on indigenous semiconductor manufacturing capabilities with international collaboration frameworks
• Startup ecosystem in semiconductor design and manufacturing receives enhanced government support
• Skilled workforce development programs announced to train 2 lakh professionals in semiconductor technologies
• Research and development initiatives strengthened through academic-industry partnerships
• Export potential emphasized with target of $100 billion semiconductor exports by 2030

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• India Semiconductor Mission Details:
  • Total Investment: ₹1.35+ lakh crores (government + private sector)
  • Government Support: ₹76,000 crores fiscal incentive package
  • Timeline: 2021-2030 comprehensive mission period
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
• Semiconductor Manufacturing Ecosystem:
  • Fabrication Plants: 10 planned facilities across multiple states
  • ATMP Facilities: 25+ Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging units
  • Design Houses: 150+ operational with growing capabilities
  • R&D Centers: 35+ research and development facilities
• Global Semiconductor Context:
  • Market Size: $580+ billion globally (2025)
  • India’s Current Share: 0.2% of global production
  • Target Achievement: 10% global market share by 2030
  • Domestic Demand: $110+ billion by 2030 (projected)
• Technology Partnership Countries:
  • Taiwan: Advanced chip manufacturing (TSMC collaboration)
  • South Korea: Memory semiconductors (Samsung, SK Hynix)
  • Japan: Equipment and precision manufacturing
  • Singapore: Testing and packaging expertise
• Application Sectors for Semiconductors:
  • Consumer Electronics: 40% (smartphones, laptops, TVs)
  • Automotive: 30% (EVs, autonomous systems, infotainment)
  • Telecommunications: 15% (5G equipment, data centers)
  • Defense and Aerospace: 15% (mission-critical applications)
• Employment and Skill Development:
  • Direct Employment: 3+ lakh jobs by 2030
  • Indirect Employment: 10+ lakh associated jobs
  • Skill Development Centers: 50+ centers across India
  • Academic Programs: Specialized courses in 200+ institutions
• Strategic Importance:
  • National Security: Critical for defense and strategic sectors
  • Economic Growth: High-value manufacturing and exports
  • Supply Chain Resilience: Reducing 85% import dependence
  • Technological Sovereignty: Indigenous capability development

🏛️ TAMIL NADU STATE AFFAIRS

Tamil Nadu Urban Infrastructure Development Review

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Comprehensive review of urban infrastructure projects across 21 municipal corporations conducted
• Smart city initiatives show 90% completion rate with enhanced citizen service delivery mechanisms
• Public transportation modernization includes electric bus fleet expansion to 5,000+ vehicles
• Water supply and sewage treatment projects ensure 24×7 water supply to 85% urban population • Solid waste management becomes fully mechanized with scientific processing in all major cities
• Digital governance platforms report 95% citizen satisfaction for online municipal services
• Green building initiatives and sustainable urban planning practices adopted citywide

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• Tamil Nadu Urban Statistics:
  • Urban Population: 48.4% of total state population (3.7+ crore)
  • Municipal Corporations: 21 corporations including Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai
  • Municipalities: 138 municipalities across the state
  • Town Panchayats: 562 town panchayats for smaller urban areas
• Urban Local Body Structure:
  • Mayor: Elected head of municipal corporation (5-year term)
  • Municipal Corporation Council: Elected representatives (councillors)
  • Commissioner: Administrative head (IAS officer)
  • Standing Committees: Finance, works, health, education committees
• Tamil Nadu Municipal Laws:
  • Tamil Nadu District Municipalities Act 1920: Foundational legislation
  • Tamil Nadu Municipal Corporation Act: Governance of major cities
  • 74th Constitutional Amendment: Urban local government framework
  • Tamil Nadu Municipal Rules: Implementation guidelines
• Urban Development Programs:
  • Smart Cities Mission: 12 Tamil Nadu cities selected
  • AMRUT: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation
  • Swachh Bharat Mission: Urban cleanliness and sanitation
  • PMAY-U: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban housing
• Chennai Metropolitan Development:
  • Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority: Planning and development
  • Chennai Smart City: ₹2,500+ crore investment
  • Metro Rail: Phase I operational, Phase II under construction
  • IT Corridor: OMR and other technology hubs
• Urban Infrastructure Statistics:
  • Water Supply: 185 LPCD (liters per capita per day) average
  • Sewage Treatment: 85% treatment capacity achievement
  • Power Supply: 99.5% electrification in urban areas
  • Road Network: 45,000+ km municipal roads
• Financial Resources:
  • Own Revenue: Property tax, professional tax, user charges
  • State Transfers: State Finance Commission recommendations
  • Central Grants: Centrally sponsored schemes funding
  • Urban Local Body Debt: Municipal bonds and institutional finance

Tamil Nadu Women Entrepreneurship Development Initiative

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Comprehensive women entrepreneurship program launched with ₹3,000 crore fund allocation
• Self-help group network strengthened with 8.5 lakh SHGs benefiting 1.3 crore women
• Business incubation centers established in 50 districts focusing on women-led startups
• Skill development programs tailored for women in emerging sectors like e-commerce and fintech
• Market linkage facilitation connects women entrepreneurs with global supply chains
• Financial inclusion enhanced through collateral-free loans up to ₹25 lakhs for women enterprises
• Mentorship programs pair successful women entrepreneurs with emerging business leaders

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• Tamil Nadu Women Demographics:
  • Total Women Population: 3.61 crore (49.6% of state population)
  • Literacy Rate: 73.4% (2011 Census, improving trend)
  • Work Participation Rate: 31.8% (higher than national average)
  • Sex Ratio: 996 females per 1000 males (above national average)
• Self-Help Group Movement:
  • Total SHGs: 8.5+ lakh groups across the state
  • Women Members: 1.3+ crore women participants
  • Average Group Size: 15-20 members per SHG
  • Savings Mobilization: ₹12,000+ crores accumulated savings
• Mahalir Thittam Program:
  • Launch: 1989 (pioneering SHG program in India)
  • Coverage: All 38 districts and 12,618 village panchayats
  • Credit Linkage: 95%+ SHGs linked with formal banking
  • Microfinance: ₹25,000+ crores credit disbursed
• Women Entrepreneurship Ecosystem:
  • Business Incubators: 50+ women-focused incubation centers
  • Skill Development: 25+ sectors covered in training programs
  • Financial Support: Government schemes and private funding
  • Market Access: E-commerce platforms and export facilitation
• Government Support Schemes:
  • Pudhumai Penn: Girl child education and empowerment
  • Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam: Women’s rights and welfare
  • Women Self-Employment Scheme: Business development support
  • Stand-Up India: Bank funding for women entrepreneurs
• Success Stories and Impact:
  • Kudumbashree Model: Tamil Nadu adaptation and success
  • Microenterprise Development: 5+ lakh women-led enterprises
  • Employment Generation: 15+ lakh women employed
  • Economic Empowerment: Household income improvement
• Institutional Framework:
  • Tamil Nadu Corporation for Development of Women: Nodal agency
  • District Rural Development Agency: Implementation at district level
  • Block Development Office: Grassroots level coordination
  • Cooperative Structure: Three-tier cooperative system

💰 ECONOMIC AFFAIRS

India’s September 2025 Manufacturing and Export Performance

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Manufacturing PMI reaches 59.8 in August 2025, indicating robust expansion across industrial sectors
• Export performance shows remarkable growth with merchandise exports touching $48.5 billion • Production-Linked Incentive schemes demonstrate positive results across 14 targeted sectors
• Capacity utilization in manufacturing reaches 79.2%, highest level in five years
• New investment announcements total ₹15,000 crores across automotive and electronics sectors • Employment generation in manufacturing sector shows 12% year-on-year growth
• International competitiveness improves with reduced manufacturing costs and enhanced productivity

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• India’s Manufacturing Statistics:
  • GDP Contribution: 15.6% of total GDP (target: 25% by 2025)
  • Employment: 12.5% of total workforce (65+ million jobs)
  • Global Ranking: 6th largest manufacturing economy globally
  • Growth Rate: 8.8% average over past three years
• Make in India Initiative:
  • Launch: September 25, 2014
  • Sectors: 27 sectors identified for manufacturing focus
  • Investment Target: $1 trillion manufacturing sector by 2030
  • Employment Target: 100 million jobs by 2030
• Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes:
  • Total Allocation: ₹1.97 lakh crores across sectors
  • Mobile Manufacturing: ₹41,000 crores (largest allocation)
  • Semiconductor: ₹76,000 crores comprehensive package
  • Automobile: ₹57,042 crores for auto and components
• Manufacturing Hubs:
  • Automotive: Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Maharashtra, Gujarat
  • Textiles: Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Punjab, Karnataka
  • Electronics: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh
  • Pharmaceuticals: Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh
• Export Performance Statistics:
  • Merchandise Exports: $437+ billion (2024-25)
  • Manufacturing Exports: $350+ billion (80% of total)
  • Key Export Categories: Engineering goods, textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals
  • Destination Markets: USA, UAE, China, Germany, UK
• Industrial Infrastructure:
  • Industrial Parks: 400+ operational parks nationwide
  • Special Economic Zones: 265+ SEZs across different sectors
  • Industrial Clusters: 150+ sector-specific clusters
  • Manufacturing Cities: Dedicated industrial cities development
• Technology and Innovation:
  • Industry 4.0: Digital manufacturing adoption
  • Research & Development: 0.65% of GDP investment in R&D
  • Patents: 66,000+ patent applications annually
  • Startup Manufacturing: 15,000+ manufacturing startups
• Ease of Business Reforms:
  • Global Ranking: 63rd position (improved from 142nd in 2014)
  • Single Window: Online clearance systems
  • Labor Reforms: Four unified labor codes
  • Environmental Clearances: Streamlined approval processes

Digital Banking and Fintech Sector Expansion

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Digital banking transactions exceed 17 billion monthly volume with enhanced security protocols
• Fintech sector attracts $12 billion investment in current fiscal year, highest ever recorded
• Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) market expands rapidly with 25+ million active users
• Cryptocurrency regulation framework implementation progresses with pilot trading platforms
• Digital lending platforms disburse ₹3.5 lakh crores annually through technology-driven processes
• Neo banking solutions gain traction with 15+ licensed digital-only banking platforms
• Financial inclusion reaches 99.5% adult population through digital banking infrastructure

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• Digital Banking Statistics (September 2025):
  • UPI Transactions: 17+ billion monthly transactions
  • Transaction Value: ₹25+ lakh crores monthly
  • Digital Payment Penetration: 87% of adults using digital payments
  • Mobile Banking Users: 400+ million active users
• Fintech Ecosystem Development:
  • Fintech Companies: 10,000+ registered entities
  • Unicorns: 25+ fintech unicorns valued at $1+ billion
  • Investment Volume: $12+ billion in 2025-26
  • Employment: 5+ lakh direct jobs in fintech sector
• Regulatory Framework Evolution:
  • Reserve Bank of India: Central bank digital currency and regulations
  • Digital Lending Guidelines: Comprehensive framework for tech-based lending
  • Cryptocurrency Regulation: Progressive regulatory approach
  • Data Protection: Personal data protection compliance
• Key Fintech Segments:
  • Payments: UPI, digital wallets, payment gateways (40% market share)
  • Lending: Digital lending platforms, BNPL services (30%)
  • Wealth Management: Robo-advisory, investment platforms (15%)
  • Insurance: Insurtech solutions, digital distribution (15%)
• Traditional Banking Digital Transformation:
  • Digital-first Banks: 15+ neobanking licenses issued
  • Branch Digitization: 90%+ branches digitally enabled
  • Core Banking: Modern core banking systems adoption
  • API Banking: Open banking infrastructure development
• Financial Inclusion Metrics:
  • Jan Dhan Accounts: 53+ crore accounts
  • Bank Account Penetration: 99.5% adult population
  • Credit Penetration: 58% adults with formal credit access
  • Insurance Penetration: 4.2% of GDP (improving trend)
• Technology Integration:
  • Artificial Intelligence: Credit scoring, fraud detection, customer service
  • Blockchain: Trade finance, identity verification, smart contracts
  • Cloud Computing: Scalable infrastructure and cost optimization
  • Internet of Things: Connected devices for financial services

🌍 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

India-ASEAN Digital Partnership Summit

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Virtual India-ASEAN Digital Partnership Summit focuses on technology cooperation and digital governance
• Digital connectivity initiatives launched to enhance submarine cable infrastructure across region
• Fintech collaboration framework established for cross-border payment systems and regulations • Educational technology partnerships promote online learning and digital literacy programs
• Cybersecurity cooperation strengthened through information sharing and joint capacity building
• E-commerce facilitation measures implemented to boost digital trade to $300 billion by 2030
• Startup ecosystem collaboration creates opportunities for cross-border innovation and investment

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• India-ASEAN Digital Cooperation Framework:
  • ASEAN-India Digital Work Plan: 2021-2025 strategic framework
  • Focus Areas: Digital connectivity, cybersecurity, digital skills, e-commerce
  • Investment Commitment: $2 billion for digital infrastructure
  • Timeline: Comprehensive implementation by 2030
• ASEAN Member Countries Digital Readiness:
  • Singapore: Advanced digital economy and fintech hub
  • Thailand: Digital government initiatives and industry 4.0
  • Malaysia: Comprehensive digital transformation strategy
  • Indonesia: Large digital market with growing tech sector
• Trade and Economic Statistics:
  • Current Digital Trade: $45+ billion annually
  • Target Digital Trade: $300+ billion by 2030
  • E-commerce Growth: 25% annually across region
  • Cross-border Payments: $120+ billion volume
• Key Cooperation Areas:
  • Digital Infrastructure: Submarine cables, data centers, 5G networks
  • Digital Skills: Capacity building and professional development
  • Digital Government: E-governance and public service delivery
  • Digital Economy: E-commerce, digital payments, fintech
• India’s Digital Diplomacy:
  • Digital Public Infrastructure: Sharing India’s DPI expertise
  • Technology Transfer: IT and software development capabilities
  • Startup Ecosystem: Indian unicorns expanding to ASEAN
  • Educational Partnerships: Online courses and digital literacy
• Challenges and Opportunities:
  • Regulatory Harmonization: Different national regulations
  • Data Localization: Balancing data governance and flow
  • Cybersecurity: Regional threat assessment and response
  • Digital Divide: Ensuring inclusive digital transformation
• Historical Context of India-ASEAN Relations:
  • 1992: Sectoral Dialogue Partner
  • 1996: Full Dialogue Partner
  • 2002: Summit-level Partnership
  • 2012: Strategic Partnership
  • 2022: Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

🔬 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

National Biotechnology Research Advancement Program

📰 NEWS ANALYSIS

• Comprehensive biotechnology research program launched with ₹25,000 crore investment over seven years
• Focus on precision medicine, agricultural biotechnology, and industrial bioprocesses development
• Bio-manufacturing initiatives establish India as global hub for pharmaceutical and vaccine production
• Gene therapy and cell therapy research programs receive enhanced funding and regulatory support
• Biotech startups ecosystem strengthened with 500+ companies receiving incubation and funding support
• International collaboration agreements signed for biotechnology research and development projects
• Ethical framework for biotechnology research ensures responsible innovation and public safety

📚 STATIC BACKGROUND – EXAM ESSENTIALS

• Indian Biotechnology Sector Overview:
  • Market Size: $80+ billion industry (2024-25)
  • Global Ranking: 12th largest biotechnology destination
  • Growth Rate: 15-20% annually across different segments
  • Employment: 2.5+ million direct and indirect jobs
• Key Biotechnology Segments:
  • Biopharmaceuticals: 60% of sector (vaccines, therapeutics)
  • Agricultural Biotechnology: 15% (GM crops, biopesticides)
  • Industrial Biotechnology: 15% (enzymes, biofuels)
  • Contract Research: 10% (clinical trials, research services)
• Department of Biotechnology (DBT):
  • Establishment: 1986 under Ministry of Science and Technology
  • Budget: ₹3,500+ crores (2025-26)
  • Research Institutes: 26 autonomous institutes
  • Programs: Basic research, applied research, human resource development
• Major Biotechnology Institutions:
  • Indian Institute of Science: Bangalore (premier research institute)
  • National Institute of Immunology: New Delhi
  • Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics: Hyderabad
  • National Centre for Cell Science: Pune
• Biotechnology Research Areas:
  • Healthcare: Drug discovery, diagnostics, personalized medicine
  • Agriculture: Crop improvement, sustainable farming, food security
  • Environment: Bioremediation, waste management, conservation
  • Energy: Biofuels, renewable energy, sustainable processes
• Regulatory Framework:
  • Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee: GM crop regulation
  • Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation: Research oversight
  • Institutional Biosafety Committees: Laboratory safety protocols
  • Drug Controller General of India: Pharmaceutical regulations
• International Collaborations:
  • Indo-US Science and Technology Cooperation: Joint research programs
  • Indo-German Biotechnology Partnership: Technology transfer
  • BRICS STI Cooperation: Multilateral research initiatives
  • International Centre for Genetic Engineering: Delhi-based center
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship:
  • Biotechnology Incubators: 50+ incubation centers
  • Startup Ecosystem: 3,500+ biotech startups
  • Intellectual Property: 12,000+ biotechnology patents
  • Technology Transfer: Academic-industry collaboration

🎯 EXAM PREPARATION ESSENTIALS

September 2, 2025 Key Developments Summary

Major International Developments:

• 25th SCO Summit: PM Modi’s participation in China, multilateral cooperation
• India-ASEAN Digital Partnership: Technology cooperation and digital trade
• Semiconductor Conference: Semicon India 2025 launch by PM Modi
• Biotechnology Advancement: ₹25,000 crore research program launch

Economic and Financial Highlights:

• Manufacturing PMI: 59.8 (robust expansion indicator)
• Digital Banking: 17+ billion monthly UPI transactions
• Export Growth: $48.5 billion merchandise exports
• Fintech Investment: $12 billion annual investment flow

Tamil Nadu Specific Updates:

• Urban Infrastructure: 90% smart city completion rate
• Women Entrepreneurship: ₹3,000 crore fund allocation
• Self-Help Groups: 8.5 lakh SHGs with 1.3 crore women
• Municipal Governance: 95% citizen satisfaction in digital services

📊 SEPTEMBER 2025 UPDATED STATISTICS

Economic Performance Metrics:

• Manufacturing PMI: 59.8 (August 2025)
• Capacity Utilization: 79.2% (5-year high)
• UPI Volume: 17+ billion monthly transactions
• Export Performance: $48.5 billion monthly

Technology and Innovation Indicators:

• Semiconductor Investment: ₹1.35+ lakh crores total
• Fintech Companies: 10,000+ registered entities
• Biotechnology Market: $80+ billion industry size
• Digital Payment Users: 400+ million active users

International Engagement Metrics:

• SCO Economic Size: $23+ trillion combined GDP
• India-ASEAN Digital Trade: $45+ billion annually
• ASEAN Partnership: Comprehensive Strategic Partnership status
• Global Technology Cooperation: 15+ countries in semiconductor alliance

📅 IMPORTANT OBSERVANCES (September 2025)

September 2, 2025 – National Coconut Day:

• Celebrates coconut cultivation and its economic importance
• India is world’s 3rd largest coconut producer (11.9 billion nuts annually)
• Coconut Development Board promotes cultivation and value addition
• Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka are major producing states

Upcoming Important Dates:

• September 5: Teachers’ Day (Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan birthday)
• September 8: International Literacy Day (UNESCO initiative)
• September 14: Hindi Diwas (Official Language Day)
• September 15: Engineers’ Day (Sir M. Visvesvaraya birthday)