26 June 2025 : Daily Current Affairs

1. In historic leap, Indian astronaut heads to ISS

Source: The Hindu, Page 1 & 6, June 26, 2025

Topic: GS Paper 3 – Science and Technology (Space Technology)

Context

Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Indian astronaut to board the ISS through the Axiom-4 commercial mission.

Content: 

• Significance:

  • First Indian in orbital space after 41 years (since Rakesh Sharma).

  • Enhances India’s credentials in human spaceflight ahead of the Gaganyaan mission (slated for 2027).

• Mission Highlights:

  • Shukla to conduct 8 experiments designed by ISRO; mission includes 60+ scientific activities representing 31 countries.

  • ISRO-NASA cooperation: 5 joint scientific experiments and 2 STEM demonstrations.

• Policy Implications:

  • ₹548 crore expenditure to secure Shukla’s seat under scrutiny.

  • Private sector role (Axiom, SpaceX) reflects changing dynamics in space policy.

• Way Forward:

  • India must balance between commercial partnerships and self-reliant space capabilities.

  • Greater public transparency in space programme investments is needed.

Practice Question:

India’s entry into human spaceflight marks a strategic milestone. Examine the scientific and strategic significance of India’s human space mission initiatives and the challenges ahead.  (250 words / 15 marks)

2. GST Council set to discuss having fewer items in 12% slab

Source: Page 1 & 10, The Hindu, June 26 2025

Topic: GS Paper 3 – Economy (Taxation, GST Reform)

Context

The GST Council may reduce or eliminate the 12% tax slab to simplify the rate structure.

Content:

• Key Developments:

  • Discussion to move items to either 5% or 18% slabs.

  • Meeting scheduled in July 2025 (last one held in Dec 2024).

• Implications:

  • For consumers: Simplified tax regime, possible change in prices.

  • For manufacturers: Risk of losing input tax credit (if items move to 5%).

  • For economy: Better compliance, reduced classification disputes.

• Concerns:

  • Some items like toothpaste, soap—formerly discretionary—now essentials.

  • Need to balance revenue with affordability and business viability.

Practice Question:

“Critically examine the implications of rationalising GST slabs for economic efficiency, revenue generation, and taxpayer compliance.” (250 words / 15 marks)

3. Strikes set back Iran’s nuclear sites, did not destroy them, claims U.S. intel

Source: The Hindu, Page 14, June 26, 2025

Topic: GS Paper 2 – International Relations | GS Paper 3 – Security (Nuclear Policy)

Context

US intelligence confirms that recent strikes on Iran delayed but did not neutralise its nuclear programme.

Content:

• Background:

  • US airstrikes aimed at destroying Iran’s nuclear facilities.

  • Iran confirms damage but asserts continuation of the programme.

• Analysis:

  • Highlights limits of military interventions in nuclear deterrence.

  • Escalates geopolitical instability in West Asia.

  • Raises concerns over future of JCPOA and non-proliferation regimes.

• Way Forward:

  • Diplomatic engagements must resume.

  • Need to reinforce international monitoring via IAEA.

Practice Question:

In light of recent geopolitical developments in West Asia, discuss the challenges to global nuclear non-proliferation and India’s stance on nuclear diplomacy. (150 words / 10 marks)

Prelims Facts

1. In historic leap, Indian astronaut heads to ISS

Source: Page 1 & 6, The Hindu

Topic: GS Paper 3 – Science and Technology (Space Technology)

Context

Indian Air Force officer Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS under the Axiom-4 commercial mission.

Analysis of the news:

• First Indian to go to the ISS: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.

• Mission: Axiom-4 (Ax-4) commercial mission launched by SpaceX from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

• Duration: 14 days aboard the ISS; docked via SpaceX’s Dragon capsule.

• Experiments: 60 scientific studies involving 31 countries; 8 from ISRO.

• Training: Shukla received training in the US; mission cost India ₹548 crore.

• Gaganyaan Mission: Shukla is a leading candidate for India’s upcoming indigenous mission (Gaganyaan – 2027).

• Private partners: Axiom Space, NASA, SpaceX involved in the mission.

2. GST Council set to discuss having fewer items in 12% slab

Source: Page 1 & 10, The Hindu

Topic: GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy (Taxation)

Context

The GST Council is planning to rationalize the tax structure by reconsidering the 12% slab, potentially merging it with adjacent slabs.

Analysis of the news:

• GST Council meeting planned for July 2025.

• Current GST slabs: 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%.

• Focus: Reducing complexity by removing/minimizing the 12% slab.

• Aim: Simplify GST rate structure and boost ease of doing business.

• Last GST Council meeting: Held in December 2024.

• GST Council is a constitutional body under Article 279A.

• Chaired by: Union Finance Minister; includes state finance ministers.

Check more: 25 June 2025 : Daily Current Affairs