India Weekly News (March 16-22): Top Developments You Need to Know

The past week in India has been eventful, shaping the country’s economic, political, and social landscape. From policy changes affecting trade and finance to geopolitical shifts and advancements in technology, each development plays a crucial role in the nation’s progress. Here’s a detailed look at the most important news stories that made headlines between March 16 and March 22, 2025.

Government Scraps 20% Onion Export Duty

• In a decision welcomed by farmers, the Indian government announced the removal of the 20% export duty on onions, effective April 1, 2025. The duty was initially imposed in September 2024 to curb rising domestic prices and ensure availability. However, with the supply situation improving and a surplus in production, the move aims to help onion farmers secure better prices in the global market. Experts believe this will open up new export opportunities, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Strengthening India-South Australia Ties

• South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas, led a high-profile delegation to India, marking the first such visit in over a decade. The focus was on expanding educational and trade relations, especially as Indian students form the largest international student community in South Australia. Key discussions revolved around potential scholarship programs, expanding student work permits, and enhancing collaboration in industries like renewable energy, space technology, and healthcare. The introduction of direct flight routes between India and Adelaide was also explored to boost tourism and business exchanges.

Twitter vs. Indian Government: The Censorship Battle

• Tech giant X (formerly Twitter) has filed a lawsuit against the Indian government, challenging new content removal regulations that mandate the deletion of posts deemed against national security or public order. The dispute highlights concerns over digital freedom, as civil rights groups argue the rules could be misused to suppress dissent. The Indian government defends its stance, citing the need to regulate misinformation and harmful content online. This case is expected to set a precedent for digital governance in the country.

Indian Markets React to US Federal Reserve Policy

• The Indian rupee and government bonds fluctuated as investors closely monitored the US Federal Reserve’s policy decisions regarding interest rate adjustments. Concerns over inflation, global trade disruptions, and geopolitical tensions influenced market trends. Analysts predict that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may adjust its monetary policy accordingly, potentially lowering interest rates to sustain economic growth. Stock market experts advise caution in investment decisions until global trends stabilize.

India Eyes the 2030 Commonwealth Games

• India has expressed interest in hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games as part of its broader ambition to secure the 2036 Olympics. The country last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010 in New Delhi, which faced scrutiny over budget overruns and corruption allegations. This time, the government is emphasizing better planning and transparent execution. If India wins the bid, the event could significantly boost infrastructure development, sports facilities, and employment opportunities.

Communal Violence in Nagpur

• Nagpur witnessed communal tensions following protests by right-wing Hindu groups demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb. The situation escalated after rumors of religious text desecration spread, leading to violent clashes, property damage, and over 90 arrests. Authorities imposed curfews and deployed additional security forces to restore peace. Community leaders have urged dialogue to prevent further escalations, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical monuments while maintaining communal harmony.

India and Japan Strengthen Defense Ties

• India and Japan signed a new defense cooperation agreement aimed at boosting military collaboration, joint exercises, and intelligence sharing. The agreement focuses on maritime security, particularly in countering challenges from China in the Indo-Pacific region. The two nations also discussed expanding defense technology transfers and joint production of advanced military equipment. Experts view this partnership as a strategic move to maintain stability and security in the region.

RBI Launches Digital Rupee for Retail Transactions

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) expanded its digital rupee pilot program to include more banks and cities. The initiative aims to improve financial inclusion and enable secure, real-time transactions, reducing reliance on cash. Businesses and consumers have started adopting the digital currency, with major retail chains and online platforms integrating it as a payment method. RBI officials believe this will revolutionize India’s digital payments landscape.

Chandrayaan-4 Mission Announced

• ISRO officially announced plans for the Chandrayaan-4 lunar mission, set to launch in 2026. This mission will focus on further exploring the Moon’s south pole, where Chandrayaan-3 made a historic landing. Scientists aim to deploy more advanced rovers and conduct detailed mineral analysis to assess lunar resources. The success of Chandrayaan-4 could bolster India’s position in global space exploration.

Supreme Court Upholds Same-Sex Marriage Ban

• The Supreme Court of India upheld the existing legal framework that does not recognize same-sex marriages. However, the ruling encouraged the government to introduce policies that grant legal protections to LGBTQ+ couples, such as inheritance rights, financial benefits, and cohabitation laws. The decision has sparked nationwide debates, with activists pushing for legislative reforms to ensure equal rights.

Severe Heatwave Hits Northern India

• Several states in North India, including Delhi, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, recorded extreme temperatures exceeding 45 °C. The government issued health advisories, urging citizens to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak hours. Hospitals have reported an increase in heatstroke cases, prompting authorities to improve emergency response measures. Climate experts warn that such heatwaves are becoming more frequent due to global warming.

India’s Forex Reserves Reach Record High

• India’s foreign exchange reserves surged to a record $650 billion, providing a strong buffer against global financial uncertainties. The reserves help stabilize the rupee against currency fluctuations and ensure sufficient funds for essential imports, such as crude oil and defense equipment. Analysts attribute this growth to strong remittances, foreign investments, and export earnings.

New AI-Powered Traffic Management System Launched in Bengaluru

• Bengaluru introduced an AI-based traffic control system to manage congestion and improve road safety. The system uses real-time data from surveillance cameras and sensors to optimize traffic signals and predict congestion patterns. Authorities believe this technology will significantly reduce commute times in one of India’s most traffic-clogged cities. Future plans include expanding AI-driven solutions to other metro cities.

Major Cyber Attack on Indian Government Websites

• A coordinated cyber attack targeted multiple Indian government websites, allegedly originating from foreign hacker groups. The attack disrupted services and exposed vulnerabilities in national cybersecurity infrastructure. Authorities have launched an investigation, and steps are being taken to strengthen firewalls and implement advanced threat detection systems. The incident highlights the growing importance of cyber defense in national security.

Indian Farmers Protest New Agricultural Policies

• Thousands of farmers resumed protests against new agricultural policies, demanding better minimum support prices and loan waivers. Protesters, mainly from Punjab and Haryana, staged demonstrations in Delhi, blocking highways and demanding government intervention. While officials have proposed negotiations, farmer unions insist on concrete policy changes before withdrawing protests.

Air India Finalizes Record Aircraft Purchase

• Air India confirmed a record-breaking deal to purchase over 500 new aircraft from Boeing and Airbus. The order includes a mix of wide-body and narrow-body planes aimed at expanding international and domestic routes. The modernization of Air India’s fleet is expected to improve passenger experience and enhance India’s presence in global aviation. Industry experts see this as a significant step in making Air India a global competitor in the airline sector.

India continues to navigate a dynamic landscape with developments across multiple sectors. From economic policy shifts to diplomatic ties and technological advancements, every event contributes to shaping the nation’s future. As we move forward, these changes will impact industries, governance, and everyday life. Stay tuned for more updates as India progresses in its journey of growth and transformation.

Fuel our creativity with a cup of coffee! ☕️❤️❤️❤️