Morning Brief: Govt Plans Extra Sops For Mobile Makers Exceeding PLI Targets; Russia Secretly Sourcing Sensitive Goods From India: FT Report; SC To Hear Kejriwal's Plea

Dear reader, here’s your snapshot of today’s top headlines to stay on top of the news.

Govt Plans Extra Sops For Mobile Makers Exceeding PLI Targets

The government is evaluating options to enhance incentives for companies surpassing their production, sales, and export targets under the mobile phone production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. Some firms meeting their targets consistently have requested additional incentives as a “good faith” measure. The decision on this matter is currently pending with the empowered committee. The PLI scheme, initially set to run until 2024-25, was extended by a year due to COVID-19 disruptions. The scheme offers a 4 per cent-6 per cent incentive on incremental sales over the base year. Out of 32 approved companies, seven are greenfield and 25 are brownfield projects.

Russia Secretly Sourcing Sensitive Goods From India: FT Report

The Financial Times has reported that Russia is secretly acquiring sensitive goods from India to support its war effort in Ukraine, citing leaked state correspondence and Western officials. The Russian industry and trade ministry planned to spend about Rs 82 billion ($1 billion) on critical electronics through covert channels. The initiative uses rupees accumulated from oil sales to India and seeks dual-use technologies subject to Western export controls. In the past, India has defended its Russian oil purchases, criticising Western hypocrisy for indirectly relying on Russian energy.

Supreme Court To Hear Kejriwal’s Bail Plea

The Supreme Court will hear Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's bail plea today (5 September), challenging the Delhi high court's decision that upheld his arrest by the CBI in the excise policy case. The previous hearing on August 23 granted the CBI one week to respond to one of the pleas. Meanwhile, the Delhi high court has issued summons to Kejriwal and other accused, extending his judicial custody until September 11.

Trudeau's Minority Government In Peril

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces a political crisis after the New Democratic Party (NDP) withdrew its support for his minority government. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, known in India for his pro-Khalistan comments, ended the 2022 agreement that had helped Trudeau govern, leaving him dependent on other opposition lawmakers to survive confidence votes. However, Trudeau has dismissed the idea of early elections for now. Polls currently show Trudeau at a serious risk of losing if an election were held soon, although one isn't required until October 2025.

Other Developments

Rapido Raises $200 Million, Hits $1.1 Billion Valuation

Rapido, a mobility startup, has raised $200 million in a round led by WestBridge Capital, achieving unicorn status with a $1.1 billion valuation, according to the Economic Times. Nexus Venture Partners, an existing investor, also participated, alongside Think Investments and Invus Opportunities. The funds will be used to expand Rapido’s four-wheeler taxi service, now competing with Ola and Uber. This marks a significant growth step for the Swiggy-backed company, best known for its two-wheeler taxi platform.

PM Takes Aim At Beijing’s Role In South China Sea 

During his visit to Brunei, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at China, emphasizing that India supports development, not expansionism. In his meeting with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Modi highlighted the importance of respecting freedom of navigation and called for a code of conduct in the South China Sea (SCS). The remarks are notable amid ongoing Philippines-China tensions in the region. A joint statement reaffirmed a commitment to peace, stability, and adherence to international law.

Ex-RG Kar Hospital Principal Challenges Moves SC

Sandip Ghosh, the suspended former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, has appealed to the Supreme Court against the Calcutta High Court's decision to transfer the investigation into alleged financial irregularities at the hospital to the CBI. Ghosh argues that the high court did not provide him with a proper opportunity to be heard before making the transfer. The Supreme Court is expected to hear the matter on September 6. The investigation relates to corruption allegations dating back to Ghosh's tenure, which prompted the Mamata Banerjee-led government to form a Special Investigation Team in January 2021.

New Rules Being Framed To Target Chinese Parts In Drones

The defence ministry is developing a new framework to address concerns over Chinese components in drone systems used by the armed forces. An upcoming drone competition in Ladakh will test Indian companies' solutions for drones and unmanned systems. Senior officials, including Maj Gen CS Mann, are working on methods to prevent critical electronic parts, which could potentially transfer data, from entering the supply chain. Although no specific timeline has been provided, efforts are underway to ensure that all drones, particularly those used by Northern Command, are thoroughly evaluated.

From The States

BJP Names 67 Candidates For Haryana Polls

The BJP has released its first list of 67 candidates for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, dropping eight sitting MLAs. CM Nayab Saini will contest from Ladwa, Kurukshetra, after winning the Karnal byelection in June. Meanwhile, the Congress and AAP are in talks for a possible alliance, with Congress offering five to seven seats. AAP is reportedly pushing for nine seats ahead of the polls.

Sculptor Arrested Over Shivaji Statue Collapse

Maharashtra Police arrested Jaydeep Apte, the sculptor-contractor linked to the collapse of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue, from Kalyan after being missing for 10 days. The 35-foot statue collapsed last month, sparking a political controversy ahead of the state’s elections. An FIR was filed against Apte and structural consultant Chetan Patil. BJP leader Pravin Darekar dismissed criticism of the government, saying the police did their job.

Pontiff Sparks Controversy Over Lingayat-Islam Links

Sri Taralabalu branch mutt pontiff Panditaradhya Shivacharya Swamiji has sparked controversy by suggesting common elements between Lingayat and Islam. Speaking at a event on Quran organised by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, he noted "similarities" in worship practices, such as the rejection of idol worship. He said that both advocate a focus on a single, supreme entity—Lingayat through Istalinga puja and Islam through the worship of Allah.

Keep an eye out—more exciting stories are on the horizon!