ModiWatch: In a statement ahead of his visit to Brunei and Singapore (3-5 September), Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses confidence that these engagements will fortify India's relations with both nations and the broader Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. Upon his arrival in Brunei, PM Modi was welcomed by Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

World Bank ups India’s growth forecast: The World Bank has raised its growth forecast for the Indian economy to 7% for the current fiscal year, up from the earlier estimate of 6.6% made in June. This revision is attributed to a recovery in the agriculture sector and increased rural demand. Despite a challenging global environment, India's growth remains robust, bolstered by improved monsoon conditions and strong private consumption. While industry growth may moderate slightly, agriculture and services are expected to drive the economy forward. 

Russia-India trade expands amidst western sanctions: Russia's trade with India is thriving, with bilateral transactions running smoothly, unlike with other nations. Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, facilitates up to 70% of this trade and has seen its Indian operations expand significantly. Trade between the two countries nearly doubled to $65 billion in 2023, largely due to India's increased import of Russian oil amidst western sanctions on Moscow. Sberbank is now opening accounts in rupees and considering the currency for savings. Despite sanctions preventing Sberbank from using U.S. dollars, euros, or the SWIFT system, it operates seamlessly within India’s payment and interbank systems.

Kejriwal summoned in excise policy case: A Delhi court has summoned Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others in connection with the scrapped Excise Policy 2021-22. Special Judge Kaveri Baweja has ordered the accused to appear on September 11 and extended Kejriwal's judicial custody until then. The charge sheet, filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleges that Kejriwal is one of the main conspirators and claims funds were channelled to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), with Kejriwal purportedly promising ₹90 lakhs to each candidate in 40 Goa constituencies.

India's military modernisation: The Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved ten capital acquisition proposals worth ₹1.447 trillion. Notably, 99% of this investment is earmarked for indigenous sources. Approvals include the Future Ready Combat Vehicle, a state-of-the-art main battle tank, and Air Defence Fire Control Radars. The council also greenlit the Forward Repair Team (Tracked) for in-situ repairs during mechanised operations. To bolster coastal security, the Indian Coast Guard will receive Dornier-228 aircraft, next-generation fast patrol vessels, and offshore patrol vessels. This package aims to enhance India's defence capabilities across land, air, and sea.

India's new commission to revamp laws: The Indian government has established the twenty-third Law Commission for a three-year term. This body is tasked with modernising the legal framework by identifying obsolete laws, auditing legislation affecting the poor, and advising on matters referred by the Law and Justice Ministry. The Commission's mandate includes aligning laws with constitutional principles, addressing globalisation's impact on socio-economic issues, and streamlining judicial administration.

Delhi Today: Mostly cloudy; occasional morning rain and thunderstorms followed by thunderstorms in parts of Delhi in the afternoon.

Lok Sabha: Not in session.

Rajya Sabha: Not in session.