India and European Union Seal Historic Free Trade Agreement
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pitched a "double engine" growth model following the signing of a historic free trade agreement between India and the European Union. Positioning the landmark pact as a stabilising force amid global economic turmoil, Modi emphasised its role in fostering common prosperity during uncertain times.
Details of the India-EU Free Trade Pact
India and the European Union have finalised their largest-ever free trade agreement, which promises:
- Cheaper imports for Indian consumers
- Wider market access for exporters
- New opportunities across services sectors
- Enhanced prospects for students and professionals
Speaking at the India-EU Business Forum, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the agreement would deepen cooperation across manufacturing, services, and investment. Bilateral trade between the two economies has already reached 180 billion euros, with the pact expected to significantly boost this figure when it comes into force in 2027.
Political Controversy Over Traditional Attire
A political row has erupted between the BJP and Congress after Rahul Gandhi was accused of not wearing a traditional Assamese gamosa at President Droupadi Murmu's Republic Day reception. While BJP leaders called this an insult to northeastern culture, Congress countered by pointing out that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was also not wearing the scarf, turning the episode into a wider political confrontation.
Shocking Murder Case in Agra Solved Through CCTV Evidence
In a disturbing development from Agra, police have arrested a man for allegedly murdering and dismembering his lover, a 32-year-old HR manager. The crime followed repeated arguments over her contact with another man, with investigators using CCTV footage and a missing person complaint to crack the case. The victim's body was discovered in a gunny bag, sending shockwaves through the city.
ICC Revises Media Accreditation Process
The International Cricket Council is reworking its media accreditation rules after stating it could not accommodate 80–90 applications from Bangladeshi journalists for the T20 World Cup in India. This move follows Bangladesh's decision to withdraw from the tournament citing security concerns, with the ICC now asking journalists to reapply as the accreditation process undergoes reassessment.
Economic Implications of the India-EU Agreement
The free trade agreement represents a significant milestone for both economies, which together account for approximately one-quarter of global GDP. Key benefits include:
- Reduced duties on European cars and wines entering India
- Duty-free access to EU markets for over 99% of Indian exports
- Enhanced opportunities for labor-intensive sectors and MSMEs
- Strengthened economic cooperation during global uncertainty
Prime Minister Modi's "double engine" growth model emphasizes how the agreement will provide stability and mutual benefits, positioning both India and the EU for enhanced economic resilience in challenging global conditions.
