India recently concluded its Eighth Trade Policy Review (TPR) at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, held between July 21 and 23, 2026. Led by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, the Indian delegation reaffirmed the nation's commitment to an open, transparent, and WTO-consistent trade and investment regime. This comprehensive review, which covered India's trade policies from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2025, underscored India's pivotal role as a major engine of global demand and its dedication to a rules-based multilateral trading system.
The review sessions saw active participation from 68 WTO member countries, with 44 members submitting 1,094 written questions on various aspects of India's economic transformation and expanding global trade presence. Key areas of discussion included India's progress in Digital Public Infrastructure, customs modernization, trade facilitation measures, innovation, startup development, and the integration of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) into global value chains. While member countries sought clarifications on specific policies such as Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and Quality Control Orders (QCOs), India effectively defended its approach, asserting that its trade policies are guided by WTO-consistent principles while carefully balancing the developmental needs of a large, diverse economy. The delegation emphasized measures safeguarding small farmers and bolstering domestic manufacturing capabilities, highlighting India's commitment to sustainable development and women's economic empowerment.
An Indian Navy warship and a Pakistan Navy vessel collided in international waters in the North Arabian Sea, leading India to lodge a strong diplomatic protest with Pakistan.
The India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee met in New Delhi to review bilateral market access, customs digitization, border infrastructure, and rail-road connectivity.
Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth completed a high-profile three-day official visit to Russia, engaging with senior Russian military leadership on capability development, training exchanges, and artillery modernization. The visit reinforces strategic Army-to-Army cooperation between New Delhi and Moscow.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved a massive ₹14,105.83 crore investment for the 1,200 MW Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project on the Lohit River in Arunachal Pradesh.
