INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 25TH JULY 2025

Summary of Important News Items and Editorials-47

INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 25TH JULY 2025.

1.   India-UK: Deal’s Done

India and the UK signed a landmark Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), hailed as a defining moment in bilateral ties. Signed at PM Starmer’s Chequers residence, the pact promises tariff-free access to 99% of Indian exports and significant reductions in duties on Scotch, automobiles, and British medical devices. It is projected to boost trade by 39% over time. Key concessions include duty cuts on Scotch (from 150% to 40% over 10 years), and automotive tariffs reduced to 10% over 15 years. India gains substantial access for labour-intensive exports like textiles, footwear, and food products. Social security coordination under the Double Contributions Convention will reduce financial burden for temporary workers. While the UK secured procurement access and IPR concessions, India shielded sensitive agricultural items. Strategically, the deal aligns with Vision 2035, aiming to deepen defence, technology, and climate ties. Experts suggest this could set a template for future FTAs with the US and EU.

2.   Bank Loan ‘Fraud’ Probe: ED Searches Locations Linked to Anil Ambani