Quick Overview
The Reserve Bank of India’s gold reserves surpassed USD 100 billion following significant repatriation efforts; the International Solar Alliance (ISA) held its 8th Session in New Delhi focusing on global solar collaboration; the PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission continued to reinforce India’s health resilience; and India facilitated the first-ever export of GI-tagged Indi and Puliyankudi limes to the UK, marking an agricultural milestone.
1. RBI Gold Reserves Surpass USD 100 Billion
India’s foreign exchange composition has undergone a strategic shift as the RBI repatriated 64 tonnes of gold from abroad between April and September 2025, elevating total gold reserves to USD 108 billion. This move aligns with global de-dollarization trends, with central banks diversifying away from the US dollar.
India’s reserves now comprise USD 702.28 billion in total, including USD 570.41 billion in foreign currency assets, USD 108.5 billion in gold, USD 18.7 billion in SDRs, and USD 4.6 billion in the IMF reserve position.
Gold’s domestic storage has reached 575.8 tonnes, ensuring accessibility during crises while maintaining a portion abroad for liquidity and geopolitical balance. This repatriation signifies a strategic recalibration to secure financial sovereignty in an uncertain global environment.
2. 8th Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
The ISA’s 8th Assembly underscored the Global South’s leadership in solar energy transition. The SUNRISE initiative was launched to promote solar recycling and circularity, while the OSOWOG programme aims to build intercontinental solar grids linking Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
India reaffirmed its position as a renewable powerhouse—ranking 3rd in solar capacity globally—with 110.9 GW of installed solar power and major policy drivers such as the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and PM-KUSUM.
ISA’s reports highlighted the surge of USD 521 billion global investment in solar, cementing it as the leading renewable sector. India’s leadership through technology transfer, manufacturing expansion, and inclusive development positions it as a central actor in the world’s clean energy transition.
3. PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM)
Launched in 2021, PM-ABHIM is a cornerstone initiative aimed at building a resilient and inclusive healthcare infrastructure. It enhances pandemic preparedness, strengthens public health laboratories, and upgrades rural and urban health centres.
By integrating the One Health approach and digital disease surveillance, the mission ensures real-time health data integration and equitable healthcare delivery. Aligning with SDG-3, PM-ABHIM bridges urban-rural healthcare gaps and complements schemes such as the National Health Mission and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
The mission’s emphasis on research, innovation, and localised health infrastructure reflects India’s proactive shift from reactive crisis management to sustainable health governance.
4. Indi and Puliyankudi Limes Gain Global Spotlight
India’s agri-export landscape marked a new chapter with APEDA facilitating the first-ever air shipment of GI-tagged Indi Lime (Karnataka) and Puliyankudi Lime (Tamil Nadu) to the United Kingdom.
Indi Lime, recognised for its high juice yield and zesty aroma, and Puliyankudi Lime, known for its thin peel and strong acidity, represent India’s growing focus on GI-based export diversification.
This milestone strengthens rural economies, boosts farmers’ incomes, and reinforces India’s reputation as a global hub for unique agricultural products.
CLAT/Exam Relevance Summary
RBI Gold Reserves: Important for GS Paper 3 (Mobilization of Resources, Monetary Policy). Demonstrates diversification of reserves and financial sovereignty.
ISA 8th Session: Relevant for GS Paper 2 & 3 (International Institutions, Renewable Energy). Highlights India’s leadership in clean energy diplomacy.
PM-ABHIM: Key for GS Paper 2 (Governance, Health Infrastructure). Reflects progress toward SDG-3 and health resilience.
GI-Tagged Limes Export: Relevant for Prelims (GI Tags, APEDA Initiatives) and GS Paper 3 (Agro-exports, Intellectual Property).