Welcome to your concise and engaging update on the latest developments shaping India and the global stage. From groundbreaking digital initiatives to international collaborations and inspiring achievements, here’s a curated look at the most significant events in June 2025. Let’s dive in.
India’s Digital Leap: UMEED Portal for Waqf Property Management
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju (Ministry of Minority Affairs) launched the UMEED Portal in New Delhi in June 2025, revolutionizing Waqf property management in India. Named after the Waqf Act of 1995, this centralized digital platform enhances transparency and efficiency in managing Waqf properties, benefiting communities, particularly women and children.
What is Waqf?
Waqf refers to properties dedicated by Muslims for religious, charitable, or pious purposes under Islamic law. Governed by the Waqf Act, 1995, and amended in 2013 and 2025, it ensures these assets serve societal good.
Key Features of the UMEED Portal:
- Digital Inventory: Geo-tagging of Waqf properties with unique 17-digit IDs.
- Grievance Redressal: Online system for quick complaint resolution.
- Transparency Tools: Public access to verified records, GIS mapping, and leasing tracking.
- Three-Tier Verification: Involves Mutawalli (data entry), district officers (verification), and State/UT Waqf Board CEOs (approval).
- Registration Deadline: Properties must be registered by December 6, 2025, with a possible 1-2 month extension. Unregistered properties go to Waqf Tribunals.
Note: Properties under women’s ownership cannot be declared as Waqf.
This initiative marks a significant step toward modernizing Waqf administration, ensuring accountability, and empowering communities.
Strengthening Ties: Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Minister Visits India
From June 5-7, 2025, Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Minister Zheenbek Kulubaev Moldokanovich visited India to attend the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue in New Delhi. His visit bolstered India-Kyrgyzstan relations and regional cooperation.
Highlights:
- Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT): Signed with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to boost economic ties.
- Central Asia Dialogue: Chaired by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, the dialogue saw India and five Central Asian nations (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) commit to joint exploration of rare earths and critical minerals, reducing global dependency amid Chinese export restrictions.
This collaboration underscores India’s growing role in fostering regional partnerships for sustainable development.
Global Resilience: PM Modi Addresses ICDRI 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually addressed the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) 2025 held in Nice, France, on June 6-7, 2025. Hosted by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), headquartered in New Delhi, this was the first ICDRI in Europe, co-chaired by CDRI.
Theme: “Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions.”
Key Points:
- The 54-member CDRI reaffirmed its commitment to climate-resilient infrastructure, with a focus on Africa and small island nations.
- Emphasis on global cooperation and increased investment to combat climate-related challenges.
India’s leadership in disaster resilience highlights its commitment to sustainable infrastructure worldwide.
DRDO Boosts Defence Innovation
The Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE), under DRDO, transferred technologies for nine advanced systems to 10 industries in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, in June 2025. This move strengthens India’s defence ecosystem by fostering public-private partnerships.
Systems Transferred:
- Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) Reconnaissance Vehicle Mk-II
- Mounted Gun System (MGS)
- Anti-Terrorist Vehicle (ATV) – Tracked
- 70-ton Tank Transporter for MBT Arjun Mk-1A
- Expandable Mobile Shelter, and more.
Innovation Spotlight: Hyderabad-based QuBeats, a quantum deeptech startup, won the iDEX ADITI 2.0 Defence Challenge with a Rs. 25 crore grant to develop an indigenous Quantum Positioning System (QPS) for the Indian Navy, enhancing precision navigation.
India’s defence sector is powering up for self-reliance.
Seed Innovation: Beej Anusandhan Kendra in Gujarat
A Tripartite Service Agreement was signed in June 2025 between ICRISAT (Hyderabad), IFFCO (New Delhi), and BBSSL (New Delhi) to establish the Beej Anusandhan Kendra (BAK) in Kalol, Gujarat. This state-of-the-art seed research center aims to advance sustainable agriculture.
Roles:
- ICRISAT: Knowledge partner, developing the scientific framework.
- IFFCO: Constructing the facility.
- BBSSL: Operating the center.
This partnership aligns with India’s vision for agricultural innovation, enhancing seed research and supporting farmers.
Global Energy Investments: IEA Report 2025
The International Energy Agency (IEA) released its World Energy Investment Report 2025 in June, highlighting China’s dominance with over 25% of global energy investments, projected to reach USD 3.3 trillion in 2025.
Key Insights:
- Clean Energy Boom: Investments in renewables, nuclear, and storage to hit USD 2.2 trillion.
- Solar Surge: Solar investments to reach USD 450 billion.
- India’s Growth: Renewable energy investments rose from USD 13 billion (2015) to USD 37 billion (2025), with fossil fuel investments at USD 49 billion.
India’s balanced approach to energy transition is a model for sustainable growth.
India’s DPI Shines at BRICS Meeting
At the 11th BRICS Communications Ministers’ Meeting in Brasilia, Brazil, in June 2025, Union Minister Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar showcased India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a global benchmark.
Highlights:
- Aadhaar empowers over 950 million citizens with secure digital identities.
- UPI drives seamless financial transactions.
- Call for BRICS nations to collaborate on DPI for inclusive digital economies.
India’s digital leadership continues to inspire global connectivity.
Amul’s European Venture
Amul, India’s dairy giant, partnered with Spain’s COVAP to launch fresh milk in the EU, starting with Spain in June 2025.
Key Points:
- Launch event at the Indian Embassy in Madrid, attended by Ambassador Dinesh K. Patnaik.
- Initial rollout in Madrid, Barcelona, and other Spanish cities, with plans for Lisbon, Portugal.
- Aligns with the UN’s International Year of Cooperatives 2025, celebrating global cooperative partnerships.
Amul’s global expansion brings Indian dairy excellence to Europe.
AU SFB Partners with IFC for Climate Risk Management
AU Small Finance Bank (SFB), India’s largest SFB, collaborated with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to integrate climate risk into its banking strategy.
Program Components:
- Physical Risk Assessment: Mapping loan portfolio exposure to floods, droughts, etc.
- Transition Risk Assessment: Analyzing policy and market shifts.
- Financed Emissions: Measuring emissions across asset classes for FY25-26.
This partnership positions AU SFB as a leader in sustainable banking.
Serentica Renewables Secures USD 100M
Serentica Renewables secured over USD 100 million from Rabobank and Société Générale for a 300 MW solar power project in Rajasthan, powering Bharat Aluminium Company (BALCO).
Milestone: Serentica reached 1,000 MW of renewable energy capacity in 2025, advancing India’s decarbonization goals.
Sports Glory: French Open 2025
- Men’s Singles: Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz won his second French Open title, defeating Italy’s Jannik Sinner.
- Women’s Singles: USA’s Coco Gauff claimed her first French Open title, beating Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka.
- Doubles: Spain’s Marcel Granollers and Argentina’s Horacio Zeballos (Men’s), and Italy’s Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini (Women’s) emerged victorious.
A thrilling showcase of global tennis talent.
Obituary: Marc Garneau, Canada’s First Astronaut
Marc Garneau, Canada’s first astronaut and former Foreign Minister, passed away at 76 in June 2025. His legacy includes three NASA space missions (1984, 1996, 2000) and a distinguished political career, earning him the Order of Canada and Order of Quebec.
Important Days in June 2025
- World Oceans Day (June 8): Theme: “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us.” The UN Ocean Conference (June 9-13, Nice, France) will focus on sustainable ocean management.
- World Brain Tumor Day (June 8): Theme: “Brain Health for All Ages,” raising awareness about early detection and treatment.
- World Accreditation Day (June 9): Theme: “Accreditation: Empowering SMEs,” highlighting quality standards for economic resilience.
- International Archives Day (June 9): Celebrates the role of archives in preserving heritage, part of International Archives Week (June 9-13).
Tamil Nadu’s Industrial Push
Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin inaugurated two facilities worth Rs 475 crore:
- Agile Robots SE: A Rs 300 crore AI-driven robotics plant in Irungattukottai for automotive, electronics, and healthcare sectors.
- SOL India Pvt Ltd: A Rs 175 crore air separation facility in Ranipet, producing industrial and medical-grade gases.
These projects strengthen Tamil Nadu’s manufacturing ecosystem.
10 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers
- What is the primary objective of the UMEED Portal launched by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju in June 2025?
a) To manage agricultural land records
b) To digitize and monitor Waqf properties
c) To promote renewable energy projects
d) To streamline tax collection
Answer: b) To digitize and monitor Waqf properties - Which ministry developed the UMEED Portal for Waqf property management?
a) Ministry of Home Affairs
b) Ministry of Minority Affairs
c) Ministry of Finance
d) Ministry of External Affairs
Answer: b) Ministry of Minority Affairs - What is the theme of the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) 2025?
a) Building Sustainable Cities
b) Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions
c) Advancing Renewable Energy
d) Promoting Digital Governance
Answer: b) Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions - Which country’s Foreign Minister visited India for the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue in June 2025?
a) Kazakhstan
b) Uzbekistan
c) Kyrgyzstan
d) Tajikistan
Answer: c) Kyrgyzstan - What is the name of the seed research center established in Kalol, Gujarat, in June 2025?
a) Krishi Vikas Kendra
b) Beej Anusandhan Kendra
c) AgriTech Innovation Hub
d) Seed Development Lab
Answer: b) Beej Anusandhan Kendra - Which organization collaborated with AU Small Finance Bank to integrate climate risk management in June 2025?
a) World Bank
b) International Finance Corporation
c) Asian Development Bank
d) United Nations Environment Programme
Answer: b) International Finance Corporation - What is the projected global energy investment for 2025 according to the IEA’s World Energy Investment Report?
a) USD 2.5 trillion
b) USD 3.3 trillion
c) USD 4.1 trillion
d) USD 1.9 trillion
Answer: b) USD 3.3 trillion - Who won the Men’s Singles title at the French Open 2025?
a) Jannik Sinner
b) Carlos Alcaraz
c) Rafael Nadal
d) Novak Djokovic
Answer: b) Carlos Alcaraz - What is the theme of World Oceans Day 2025?
a) Accelerating Ocean Conservation
b) Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us
c) Protecting Marine Biodiversity
d) Oceans and Climate Change
Answer: b) Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us - Which company partnered with Amul to launch fresh milk in the European Union in June 2025?
a) Nestlé
b) COVAP
c) Danone
d) Fonterra
Answer: b) COVAP
3 UPSC Mains Questions with Detailed Answers (500 Words Each)
Question 1: Discuss the significance of the UMEED Portal in the context of Waqf property management in India. How does it contribute to transparency and community empowerment?
Answer:
The launch of the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Portal by the Ministry of Minority Affairs in June 2025 marks a transformative step in modernizing the administration of Waqf properties in India. Waqf, under Islamic law, refers to properties dedicated for religious, charitable, or pious purposes, serving as a critical resource for community welfare, particularly for marginalized groups like women and children. The UMEED Portal, aligned with the Waqf Act of 1995 and its amendments (2013, 2025), introduces a centralized digital platform to streamline the management, verification, and monitoring of these assets, addressing longstanding issues of inefficiency, mismanagement, and lack of transparency.
The portal’s significance lies in its multifaceted approach to reforming Waqf administration. Its digital inventory feature, which assigns a unique 17-digit ID and geo-tags properties, ensures accurate documentation and prevents unauthorized encroachments or disputes. The three-tier verification process—involving Mutawallis, district officers, and State/UT Waqf Board CEOs—ensures rigorous scrutiny, reducing errors and fraud. The grievance redressal system allows stakeholders to resolve complaints efficiently, fostering trust. Additionally, transparency tools like GIS mapping and public access to verified records empower communities by providing clear information on Waqf assets and their utilization. The mandatory registration deadline of December 6, 2025, with a potential extension, underscores the government’s commitment to accountability, while the provision to refer unregistered properties to Waqf Tribunals ensures legal oversight.
The UMEED Portal significantly contributes to community empowerment, particularly for women and children, by ensuring Waqf properties are used effectively for social welfare programs, such as education and healthcare. By excluding properties under women’s ownership from Waqf declaration, it safeguards their rights, promoting gender equity. The portal’s real-time data updates enable Waqf Boards to make informed decisions, ensuring resources are allocated to uplift marginalized sections. This aligns with the broader vision of inclusive development, as transparent management maximizes the socio-economic impact of Waqf assets.
Moreover, the portal sets a precedent for digital governance in India, aligning with initiatives like Digital India. It addresses historical challenges, such as mismanagement due to manual record-keeping, and enhances public trust in Waqf institutions. By integrating technology, the UMEED Portal not only modernizes administration but also strengthens India’s commitment to equitable resource distribution, making it a model for other sectors. Its success will depend on effective implementation, capacity building for stakeholders, and public awareness to ensure widespread adoption. In conclusion, the UMEED Portal is a landmark initiative that blends technology with social justice, fostering transparency, efficiency, and empowerment in Waqf property management.
Word Count: 498
Question 2: Analyze the role of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a global benchmark for inclusive digital governance, as highlighted during the 11th BRICS Communications Ministers’ Meeting in June 2025.
Answer:
India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), showcased by Union Minister Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar at the 11th BRICS Communications Ministers’ Meeting in Brasilia, Brazil, in June 2025, has emerged as a global benchmark for inclusive digital governance. DPI, encompassing platforms like Aadhaar and Unified Payments Interface (UPI), represents a robust framework that delivers public and private services efficiently, fostering financial inclusion, digital empowerment, and resilient economies. India’s leadership in this domain, as highlighted under Brazil’s BRICS presidency theme of “Universal and Meaningful Connectivity,” underscores its potential to guide other nations in building inclusive digital ecosystems.
Aadhaar, a biometric-based digital identity system, empowers over 950 million citizens by providing secure access to essential services, including banking, healthcare, and government subsidies. Its scalability and interoperability have enabled seamless integration across sectors, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and ensuring last-mile delivery. UPI, on the other hand, has revolutionized digital payments, enabling billions of transactions annually with its user-friendly, real-time platform. These systems exemplify how DPI can bridge socio-economic gaps, particularly for underserved populations, by providing accessible, cost-effective, and secure digital solutions.
India’s DPI model stands out for its inclusivity and adaptability. Unlike proprietary systems, it is built on open standards, allowing integration with private-sector innovations while maintaining public oversight. This public-private partnership model ensures scalability and affordability, making it replicable for other nations. At the BRICS meeting, India called for deeper collaboration to harness DPI for inclusive growth, emphasizing its role in addressing global challenges like financial exclusion and digital divides. For instance, UPI’s success has inspired countries like Singapore and Bhutan to adopt similar systems, while Aadhaar’s framework is being studied for identity management in developing nations.
The global relevance of India’s DPI lies in its ability to foster resilient digital economies. By enabling secure, transparent, and efficient service delivery, it supports sustainable development goals, such as poverty reduction and gender equality. However, challenges like data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital literacy must be addressed to sustain trust and scalability. India’s proactive measures, such as robust data protection laws and cybersecurity frameworks, serve as a model for balancing innovation with security.
The BRICS platform amplifies India’s DPI advocacy, encouraging member nations to adopt similar frameworks to enhance connectivity and economic resilience. By sharing best practices, India can lead collaborative efforts to create interoperable digital systems across borders, fostering global trade and cooperation. In conclusion, India’s DPI, through Aadhaar and UPI, exemplifies how technology can drive inclusive governance, offering a scalable, equitable model for the world. Its success at the BRICS meeting highlights India’s role as a digital leader, inspiring global efforts toward universal connectivity and sustainable development.
Word Count: 496
Question 3: Evaluate the strategic importance of India’s collaboration with Central Asian countries, as highlighted during the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue in June 2025, particularly in the context of rare earth and critical minerals exploration.
Answer:
The 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue, held in New Delhi in June 2025, underscored India’s strategic collaboration with Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—particularly in the exploration of rare earths and critical minerals. This partnership, highlighted during Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Minister Zheenbek Kulubaev Moldokanovich’s visit and the signing of the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) with India, reflects a concerted effort to reduce global dependency on critical resources, especially amid Chinese export restrictions. This collaboration holds immense strategic importance for India’s economic security, technological advancement, and geopolitical positioning.
Rare earths and critical minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, and neodymium, are vital for high-tech industries, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, and defense systems. With China dominating global supply chains (controlling over 60% of rare earth production), India and Central Asia’s joint exploration initiatives aim to diversify sources, ensuring supply chain resilience. Central Asian nations, rich in mineral resources like uranium (Kazakhstan) and rare earth deposits (Uzbekistan), offer strategic opportunities for India to secure stable supplies. The dialogue’s commitment to joint exploration aligns with India’s National Critical Minerals Mission, which seeks to bolster domestic capabilities and reduce import reliance.
Economically, this collaboration enhances India’s self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. By partnering with Central Asia, India can access cost-effective resources, fostering innovation in clean energy technologies like solar panels and wind turbines. The BIT with Kyrgyzstan, signed during the visit, facilitates investments, creating a framework for joint ventures and technology transfers. This strengthens bilateral trade, with Central Asia serving as a gateway to Eurasian markets, enhancing India’s economic influence.
Geopolitically, the partnership counters China’s dominance in the region and global supply chains. Central Asia’s proximity to India and shared interests in energy security make it a critical partner in India’s Connect Central Asia policy. The dialogue also reinforces India’s role in multilateral frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), where India and Central Asian nations collaborate on security and economic issues. By fostering mutual trust, India can position itself as a reliable partner, balancing China’s influence in the region.
Challenges include logistical barriers, such as limited connectivity, and the need for advanced extraction technologies. India must invest in infrastructure, like the Chabahar Port, to facilitate trade and develop technical expertise through collaborations with global leaders. Additionally, environmental concerns in mineral extraction require sustainable practices to align with global climate goals.
In conclusion, the India-Central Asia collaboration on rare earths and critical minerals is a strategic move to secure resources, boost economic growth, and enhance geopolitical leverage. By fostering partnerships through dialogues and treaties, India is paving the way for a resilient, self-reliant future, positioning itself as a key player in the global critical minerals landscape.
Word Count: 498
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