Current Affairs
Daily news and updates relevant to GATE Civil, SSC JE, RRB JE and State AE/JE exams — curated by Satish.
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National Sports Day 2026 Celebrated on August 29 with 'Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein' Theme
National Sports Day (NSD) was observed across India on August 29, 2026, marking the 121st birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, the 'Wizard of Hockey'. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya led the celebrations in New Delhi. The theme for 2026 was 'Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein' (One Hour on the Playground), encouraging citizens to dedicate time to sports and physical activity.
DoCA Notifies Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2026
The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has notified the Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2026, mandating IST as the sole time reference for all official purposes across India. These rules, notified under Section 52 of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, aim to reduce reliance on foreign satellite-based time sources and enhance cybersecurity for critical infrastructure. They will become effective 180 days after official gazette publication.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Lays Foundation for T-72/T-90 Tank Overhaul Facility in Jabalpur
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone for a Rs 472 crore T-72 and T-90 Tank Overhaul Project at Vehicle Factory Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. This facility, a unit of Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), aims to bolster India's indigenous Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities for the Indian Army's main battle tanks, enhancing their operational readiness and lifespan.
SAI, BAI & SAA Partner to Establish North East's First Swimming NCoE in Assam
The Sports Authority of India (SAI), Badminton Association of India (BAI), and Sports Authority of Assam (SAA) have signed a tripartite agreement. This collaboration aims to set up the North East India's first National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for Swimming at the Amingaon Sports Complex, Kamrup, Assam. The initiative will strengthen high-performance sports infrastructure and nurture swimming talent from the region.
PNGRB and EESL Sign MoU for Smart Domestic PNG Meter Deployment
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) and Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to accelerate the large-scale deployment of smart domestic PNG meters across India's City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector. PNGRB will provide regulatory support, while EESL will manage demand aggregation and procurement for the smart meters.
Kissht Appoints Sachin Tendulkar as Brand Ambassador for 'Loans Without Any Hiccups' Campaign
Kissht, an RBI-registered NBFC, has launched its new brand campaign 'Loans Without Any Hiccups,' featuring Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar as its brand ambassador. The campaign aims to enhance Kissht's brand recall by emphasizing fast, simple, and paperless digital lending solutions. It highlights quick loan approvals and a user-friendly app experience.
TASL Signs MoU with Javelin Joint Venture for Co-Production of Anti-Tank Missile System
Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Javelin Joint Venture (JJV), a partnership between Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. The agreement explores co-production of the Javelin All Up Round (AUR) anti-tank missile system in India. TASL has been selected as JJV's primary Indian partner for future in-country co-production efforts.
FPAI Indian Football Awards 2026: Lallianzuala Chhangte Named Indian Footballer of the Year
Mohun Bagan star Lallianzuala Chhangte has been named the Indian Footballer of the Year 2026 at the FPAI Indian Football Awards in Kolkata. Manisha Kalyan received the Indian Women’s Player of the Year award. East Bengal FC was honored as the ISL Champions, and East FC Women won the Indian Women’s League 2025-26 title.
Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar Elected President of Esports Games Federation (ESGF)
Ashish Shelar, Maharashtra Minister for Electronics, IT, AI Development, and Cultural Affairs, has been elected President of the Esports Games Federation (ESGF) at its General Body Meeting in New Delhi. A prominent BJP leader and MLA from Vandre West, Shelar has a strong background in sports administration, having served as President of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).
Indian Navy Commissions 2nd Indigenous Diving Support Vessel 'Nipun'
The Indian Navy has commissioned its second Diving Support Vessel (DSV), 'Nipun,' at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Designed and built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) with around 75% indigenous content, the 'Nipun' is a Nistar-class vessel. It is equipped for saturation diving, subsea infrastructure maintenance, and serves as a mother ship for Deep Submergence Rescue Vessels (DSRV).
NASA Launches Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope to Explore Universe's Mysteries
NASA successfully launched the 'Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope' aboard SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket from Florida, USA. Developed at a cost of approximately USD 4.3 billion, this telescope is named after NASA’s first Chief of Astronomy, Nancy Grace Roman, known as the 'Mother of Hubble.' It is designed to investigate major mysteries of the universe, including dark energy and dark matter.
Indian Army Procures Javelin Missiles from USA for USD 93 Million
In August 2026, the Indian Army finalized a USD 93 million deal with the USA for approximately 100 FGM-148 Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missile systems. This procurement, under the Foreign Military Sales route, also includes 25 Command Launch Units, simulation equipment, and training aids. The agreement paves the way for potential future co-production of these systems in India.
World Sanskrit Day 2026 Observed on August 28
World Sanskrit Day, also known as Sanskrit Diwas or Vishva Samskrita Dinam, was observed on August 28, 2026. This annual event falls on Shravana Purnima (full moon day of Shravana month) and aims to promote Sanskrit, one of India's oldest languages. The observance was initiated by the Ministry of Education in 1969.
PM Jan Dhan Yojana Completes 12 Years, Boosts Financial Inclusion
On August 28, 2026, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) marked its 12th anniversary. Launched in 2014, it is the world's largest financial inclusion initiative, providing formal banking access across India. The scheme is nodal under the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance.
Banas Bio-CNG Model Plant Inaugurated in Banaskantha, Gujarat
The Banas Bio-CNG Model Plant was inaugurated in Vinchhivadi, Banaskantha, Gujarat, in August 2026. This joint initiative by Banas Dairy, Suzuki Motor Corporation, and NDDB promotes clean energy, circular economy, and additional income for livestock farmers. It processes 100 MTPD of cattle dung to produce clean fuel and organic fertilizer.
Hindalco Commissions India’s First PPT ATH Plant in Karnataka
In August 2026, Hindalco Industries Limited commissioned India’s first Superfine Precipitated Aluminium Trihydrate (PPT ATH) manufacturing plant in Belagavi, Karnataka. This greenfield facility is the first domestic producer of this high-value specialty alumina product, strengthening India's self-reliance in fire-safety materials. The plant has a capacity of 30,000 tonnes per annum.
RBI Relaxes FCNR(B) Swap Facility Rules for Large Transactions
In August 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) eased access norms for its dollar-rupee swap facility under Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank), FCNR(B) deposits. Banks can now undertake swaps exceeding USD 100 million outside weekly windows, improving flexibility for large inflows and supporting rupee stability. Smaller transactions will continue on weekly schedules.
Bajaj General Insurance Launches 'My Family Complete' Covering Pets
In August 2026, Bajaj General Insurance Limited introduced 'My Family Complete,' India's first health insurance policy integrating pet dogs and cats as insured family members under a single plan. This comprehensive policy covers adults, children, and pets (from 3 months with no upper age limit), offering extensive benefits like hospitalization, domiciliary care, and specific pet covers.
NABARD and NaBFID Sign MoU for Rural Infrastructure Financing
In August 2026, NABARD and NaBFID signed an MoU to enhance financing support for rural infrastructure and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects in India. This collaboration aims to provide long-term, competitively priced finance, improve connectivity, market access, and boost rural incomes, focusing on areas like water, sanitation, and post-harvest infrastructure.
Japan’s Yuko Keicho Appointed World Bank Group VP & Auditor General
In August 2026, the World Bank Group appointed Yuko Keicho of Japan as its Vice President and Auditor General. With over 30 years of experience, including previous senior roles at the World Bank Group and as Auditor General at the Asian Development Bank, she will lead the Internal Audit Vice Presidency (IAD), strengthening governance and internal audit.
L&T Delivers 'Samarthak', Indian Navy’s First Indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel
In August 2026, the Indian Navy received its first indigenous Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV), 'Samarthak,' built by Larsen & Toubro Ltd. (L&T) at its Kattupalli Shipbuilding Facility, Tamil Nadu. This vessel, part of a Rs 887 crore contract, has over 75% indigenous content and is designed for versatile trial and evaluation of naval weapons and sensors.
CSIR-IHBT Researchers Discover New Sunflower Species 'Doronicum Sanctum'
In August 2026, researchers from CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) discovered a new sunflower family species, 'Doronicum sanctum,' in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh at approximately 4,000 meters altitude. This marks the first documentation of the Doronicum genus in Northeast India, highlighting the rich Himalayan biodiversity.
Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa Wins Grand Chess Tour 2026
Indian Chess Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa became the first Indian to win the Grand Chess Tour (GCT) 2026 Finals. He defeated USA GM Fabiano Caruana 15–13 in the finals held in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, from August 22 to 27, 2026. This victory marks his biggest career title, earning him USD 200,000.
AP Approves India’s First Dedicated Quantum and AI University Campus
In August 2026, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu approved the establishment of India’s first dedicated Quantum and Artificial Intelligence (AI) University Campus in Amaravati. Developed by NIELIT under MeitY, this 8.5-acre campus will receive Rs 730.70 crore funding from the Government of India and offer UG, PG, PhD, Diploma, and Executive programs.
Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves 'Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yojana'
In August 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, led by CM Yogi Adityanath, approved the 'Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yojana'. This scheme provides lifelong free bus travel on all UPSRTC buses for women aged 60 and above. Eligible women will receive special smart cards and need valid government ID proof to avail the facility, benefiting over 1 crore women in the state.
MoTA Organizes National Conclave on Tribal Languages & Museums in Mysuru
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) hosted a three-day National Conclave on Tribal Languages & Museums in Mysuru, Karnataka, in August 2026. Union Minister of State Durgadas Uikey inaugurated the event. The conclave focused on strengthening tribal museums, promoting the documentation and preservation of tribal languages, and included the signing of the Mysuru Declaration.
Mizoram Declares 79 Monuments as State Protected Monuments
In August 2026, the Government of Mizoram designated 79 monuments and archaeological sites as State Protected Monuments. This declaration was made under the Mizoram Ancient Monuments and Archaeological sites and remains act, 2001, to safeguard the state's rich cultural and historical heritage. Additionally, two sites in Champhai district are already recognized as Monuments of National Importance by the ASI.
IPC Launches 7 Nitrosamine Impurities Reference Standards for Pharmaceuticals
In August 2026, the Indian Pharmacopeia Commission (IPC), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, introduced seven Indian Pharmacopoeia Nitrosamine Impurities Reference Standards. This initiative aims to enhance the accurate detection and quantification of carcinogenic impurities in pharmaceutical products, ensuring higher quality and safety for consumers. The launch occurred during an interactive meeting in Kolkata.
SHDS Inaugurates India's First Public-Private Defence Avionics Facility in Gurugram
In August 2026, Samtel HAL Display Systems Limited (SHDS), a joint venture between HAL and Samtel Avionics, inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Gurugram, Haryana. This facility is India's first public-private joint venture in defence avionics. It aims to indigenously design, qualify, and produce Multifunction Displays (MFDs) for fighter aircraft, bolstering India's self-reliance in defence technology.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy Launches Critical Minerals Innovation Hackathon 2026 (CMiH 2026)
In August 2026, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, Ministry of Coal and Mines, launched the Critical Minerals Innovation Hackathon 2026 (CMiH 2026). Organized by JNARDDC, Nagpur, the hackathon aims to foster innovation and develop technology-based solutions to strengthen India's critical minerals ecosystem. It supports the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) by engaging various stakeholders.
IICT and Netflix Announce Scholarships for 100 Students to Promote Creative Talent
In August 2026, the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) and Netflix announced scholarships for 100 students and working professionals across India. This initiative provides up to 80% financial support for six professional programmes in the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) sector. The goal is to develop industry-ready creative talent.
DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous MCPS Parachute System in Ladakh
In August 2026, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the indigenous Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) in Nyoma-Mudh Drop Zone, Leh, Ladakh. This high-altitude parachute system demonstrated safe jumps from 22,000 feet AMSL in extreme cold conditions, enhancing special operations capabilities. It was designed by ADRDE, Agra, with life-support systems from DEBEL, Bengaluru.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Chaired Inaugural Sagar Samvad in New Delhi
In August 2026, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, chaired the first edition of Sagar Samvad in New Delhi. Organized by the National Shipping Board (NSB), the event focused on 'Charting the Roadmap Towards Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047'. The Minister also launched the official website of the NSB.
VP Radhakrishnan Launches India’s First Indigenous Non-GMO Popcorn Maize Hybrid in AP
Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan launched India's first indigenous non-Genetically Modified Organism (non-GMO) high-expansion Popcorn Maize hybrid seed in Musunuru, Andhra Pradesh, in August 2026. Developed through collaboration between ICAR-IIMR and Gourmet Popcornica, this innovation aims to reduce India's reliance on imported popcorn maize technologies, promoting domestic production and agricultural value addition.
MoRD Launches Mission Samriddh Gaon for Poverty-Free, Employment-Rich Villages
The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) launched Mission Samriddh Gaon in August 2026 to foster comprehensive rural transformation. The mission aims to create poverty-free, employment-rich villages with assured access to basic amenities. It will initially be piloted in Budni and Khategaon blocks of Madhya Pradesh, focusing on integrated development through scheme convergence.
PPPAC Approves Privatisation of 11 Airports in India
The Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC) granted in-principle approval for the third round of privatisation of 11 airports in India. These airports, bundled into five groups, will be leased out under the PPP model for a 50-year concession period. The initiative is estimated to attract a total investment of Rs 8,622 crore from private concessionaires.
MoD Approves DRDO Missile Technology Transfer to Indian Defence Industry
On August 25, 2026, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) approved the transfer of technology (ToT) for all conventional missile systems developed by DRDO to Indian defence manufacturers. This decision, announced by Union Minister Rajnath Singh, aims to promote indigenous production and 'Aatmanirbharta' (Self-reliance) in the defence sector. It encourages greater involvement of Indian private industries, including MSMEs.
UNDP and HUL Partner for Plastic Circular Economy in 50 Indian Cities
UNDP India and Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) have announced the next phase of their partnership to bolster an inclusive circular economy for plastics in India. This initiative aims to support 50,000 'Safai Mitras' (waste workers) and improve waste management systems across 50 cities and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) by 2028. It aligns with India's Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 and SDGs.
ICG Hosts 2nd India-Vietnam Joint Exercise 'Sahyog HOP TAC' in Chennai
In August 2026, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) conducted the 2nd edition of their joint exercise 'Sahyog HOP TAC' in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This exercise aims to enhance maritime cooperation, operational effectiveness, and professional exchanges between the two nations. It focuses on marine pollution response and maritime law enforcement, building on the inaugural edition held in 2018.
SEBI Introduces IT Resilience Index Framework for Market Infrastructure Institutions
In August 2026, SEBI introduced an IT Resilience Index (ITRI) Framework for Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) to assess the robustness and operational resilience of their critical IT systems. This framework covers entities like stock exchanges, depositories, and clearing corporations, evaluating them across nine parameters, with 'Availability' and 'Security' having the maximum weightage.
GSL Delivers 7th Fast Patrol Vessel ICGS Ajit to Indian Coast Guard
Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) handed over Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Ajit (Yard 1277) to the Indian Coast Guard in August 2026. This is the 7th state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) in a series of eight, constructed under the 'Buy-Indian Designed, Developed, and Manufactured (Buy-IDDM)' scheme. FPVs are crucial for rapid-response maritime security and surveillance operations.
CSIR-NAL Unveils Three Indigenous Micro & Small Gas Turbine Engines
In August 2026, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) unveiled three indigenous micro and small gas turbine engines: NJ-05, NJ-50, and NJ-100. Developed for defence Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and missile systems, these engines offer thrust capacities of 5 kg, 50 kg, and 100 kg, showcasing India's advancement in miniaturized gas turbine technologies.
World Water Week 2026 Observed from August 23-27 with Theme 'Water for People and Progress'
World Water Week (WWW), the premier global conference on the water crisis, was observed from August 23-27, 2026. Organized annually by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI), the event addresses global water challenges and promotes sustainable, equitable, and climate-resilient water management. The 2026 theme was 'Water for People and Progress'.
Puducherry CM Rangasamy Presents Rs 14,300 Crore Tax-Free Budget for FY27
In August 2026, Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy presented a Rs 14,300 crore tax-free budget for the Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27). This budget marks a 5.1% increase from the previous fiscal year. Key allocations include Rs 12,115 crore for Revenue Expenditure and Rs 2,185 crore for Capital Expenditure, with significant provisions for welfare schemes and public sector undertakings.
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition 2026
The United Nations (UN) International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is observed annually on August 23. This day honors the millions affected by the transatlantic slave trade and acknowledges the struggles against slavery. Proclaimed by the 29th UNESCO General Conference in 1997, it commemorates the Saint-Domingue uprising of August 22-23, 1791, which was crucial to the Haitian Revolution and the abolition of the slave trade.
NITI Aayog Report: 87 Million Indian Youth Not in Education, Employment, or Training
NITI Aayog's "Reimagining Skilling for Viksit Bharat@2047" report reveals that 87 million Indian youth, aged 15-29, are not engaged in studying, working, or training. This figure, based on the 78th NSS round (2021), highlights a significant employability gap, with only 8.25% of graduates employed in roles matching their qualifications. The report also notes that fewer than 1 in 12 secondary schools offer vocational subjects, despite NEP 2020 recommendations.
MeitY Startup Hub Launches GENESIS EIR Cohort 3.0 in Coimbatore
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), through MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), launched the third cohort of its Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS) Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) programme. The launch took place at the GENESIS NextGen Startup Summit in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. This initiative, part of the Rs 490 crore GENESIS scheme, aims to support entrepreneurs, innovators, and early-stage startup founders in transforming technology-driven ideas into viable ventures, particularly from Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
PNGRB Approves Rs 7,000 Crore LPG Pipeline Network Expansion Across 6 States
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has approved the development of approximately 1,800 kilometers of new Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) pipeline infrastructure. This expansion, estimated at Rs 7,000 crore, spans six states and aims to strengthen India’s energy infrastructure and LPG supply chain. GAIL (India) Limited will develop the three approved projects, which will increase the common-carrier LPG pipeline network by about 23.5% to nearly 9,500 km.
Union Minister Scindia Launches Revamped Dak Sewa and Dak MITRA Apps
Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Ministry of Communications, launched the revamped Dak Sewa and Dak MITRA Apps. These apps, developed by the Department of Posts (India Post), aim to modernize postal services, enhance digital access, and improve last-mile delivery. The Dak MITRA App is a unified operational system for over 1.4 lakh Branch Post Offices, while the Dak Sewa App offers 24x7 postal services in 23 Indian languages.
CBN and PHARMEXCIL Sign MoU to Boost Pharma Exports
The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) and the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (PHARMEXCIL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration aims to promote legitimate pharmaceutical exports and prevent the diversion of controlled substances. The MoU was signed in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and includes developing a Voluntary Code of Conduct, organizing workshops, and sharing regulatory information to streamline export procedures and enhance compliance.
UPI Completes 10 Years, Revolutionizing Digital Payments in India
On August 25, 2026, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), launched by the National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), completed 10 years. UPI has become the backbone of India’s digital payments ecosystem, with its share reaching 84% in FY26. Transaction volume surged from 1.78 crore in FY17 to over 24,162 crore in FY26, and transaction value increased from Rs 0.07 lakh crore to approximately Rs 314 lakh crore over the same period.
TCS Acquires Porsche’s IT Arm MHP for EUR 320 Million
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has announced the acquisition of MHP Management- und IT- Beratung GmbH (MHP), the management and IT consulting subsidiary of Porsche AG. The acquisition is valued at EUR 320 million (approximately Rs 3,575 crore) and is part of a 5-year strategic partnership worth EUR 1.25 billion. This partnership aims to accelerate AI, digital transformation, and software-defined mobility solutions.
India Test-Fires First 100% Indigenous AK-203 'Sher' Assault Rifle
Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) at Korwa, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, successfully produced and test-fired the first 100% indigenized AK-203 'Sher' assault rifle. Manufactured entirely with Indian components, this prototype marks a significant stride towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' in defense. The rifle, intended to replace the INSAS rifle, features a 7.62×39 mm cartridge and will undergo trials for the Indian Armed Forces in September 2026.
US Navy Unveils 'AIM-424 Malice' Long-Range Air-to-Air Missile
The United States (US) Navy has unveiled the 'Air Intercept Missile (AIM)-424 Malice', a next-generation Long Range Air-to-Air Missile (LRAAM) developed by Raytheon. With a strike range exceeding 250 nautical miles (463 km), this missile is designed to enhance long-range aerial combat and naval defense capabilities. It features a two-stage solid-propellant rocket motor, integrated navigation, and advanced terminal seekers for high accuracy.
Guwahati to Host 2028 India Open Badminton Tournament
Sanjay Mishra, Secretary General of the Badminton Association of India (BAI), announced that Guwahati, Assam, will host the 2028 India Open Badminton Tournament. This move is a temporary relocation from its traditional venue in New Delhi, as the tournament schedule coincides with Republic Day celebrations in January 2028. The India Open is a BWF Super 750 category event, attracting top international players.
Kaziah Liz Mejo from Kerala Wins Miss Universe India 2026 Title
Kaziah Liz Mejo, a 19-year-old law student from Kerala, won the Miss Universe India 2026 title at the pageant finale held in Jaipur, Rajasthan. She is the first woman from Kerala to achieve this feat and will represent India at the 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico in November 2026. Vaishnavi Ganesh from Tamil Nadu was the 1st-runner up, securing the Miss Universe International 2026 title.
MeitY Notifies Rs 62,500 Cr MPMS Scheme for Handset Manufacturing
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS) with a budget of Rs 62,500 crore. This five-year scheme, from FY2026-27 to FY31, aims to boost handset production, increase domestic value addition, and strengthen manufacturing capabilities in India. It includes differentiated incentives for general mobile phone manufacturing and specific support for Indian brands.
Union Minister Sonowal inaugurates 7 projects worth Rs 427.80 crore at Paradip Port, Odisha
In August 2026, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, inaugurated seven major infrastructure projects valued at Rs 427.80 crore at Paradip Port Authority in Odisha. Concession agreements for three mechanisation projects worth Rs 1,580.36 crore were also signed to enhance the port's capacity and efficiency.
DGFT simplifies Rupee invoicing rules for exporters under Foreign Trade Policy (FTP)
In August 2026, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) eased regulations for rupee-based export transactions, granting Indian exporters more flexibility. This amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP 2023) allows invoicing overseas sales and receiving payments in Indian Rupee (INR) or foreign currencies, aligning with RBI's regulations.
MYAS to establish National Coach Accreditation Board (NCAB) to standardize coaching
In August 2026, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) announced the creation of a National Coach Accreditation Board (NCAB). This board aims to standardize coaching quality across India, following a recommendation from a task force led by Pullela Gopichand. The NCAB will set standards, approve pathways, and accredit institutions.
MoRD launches National Campaign on Entrepreneurship-II under DAY-NRLM
In August 2026, the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) initiated the National Campaign on Entrepreneurship-II under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). This three-month campaign, from August 21 to November 21, 2026, aims to foster rural women entrepreneurship and achieve the goal of creating 6 crore Lakhpati Didis.
India and Singapore deepen partnership in semiconductors, digital payments, green energy
In August 2026, India and Singapore strengthened their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the 4th India–Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR). Cooperation expanded across critical sectors like semiconductors, digital connectivity, fintech, healthcare, green economy, and advanced manufacturing. Both nations aim for innovation and sustainable development through joint initiatives.
India signs two key agreements with Mauritius, including a 5-year petroleum supply pact
In August 2026, India signed two significant agreements with Mauritius, including a Government-to-Government (G2G) MoU on oil and gas cooperation and a 5-year petroleum supply pact. These agreements, signed during Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri's visit, aim to strengthen energy cooperation and ensure assured supply of petroleum products to Mauritius by Indian Oil Corporation.
ADB approves USD 230 million for Chennai water supply upgrade; Rs 1,750 crore for Karnataka schools
In August 2026, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India signed a USD 230 million loan for modernizing Chennai's water supply and sanitation. Additionally, ADB and the Karnataka government signed a Rs 1,750 crore loan to upgrade government schools. Chennai will be India's first city with a comprehensive ring-main water supply system.
Cochin Shipyard Limited delivers INS Mangrol, 3rd ASW-SWC, to Indian Navy
In August 2026, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) delivered INS Mangrol, the third of eight indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW-SWCs), to the Indian Navy. Designed and built by CSL, INS Mangrol boasts nearly 80% indigenous content, significantly enhancing India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative in warship construction.
Indian defence startup D-Propulse demonstrates 1st indigenous 5 kN air-breathing RDE
In August 2026, Indian defence startup D-Propulse Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. successfully demonstrated India’s first indigenous 5 kilo-Newton (kN) air-breathing Rotating Detonation Engine (RDE). Integrated with an aerospike nozzle, this achievement at a DRDO facility in Hyderabad marks a significant milestone in advanced propulsion, validating Technology Readiness Level-5 (TRL-5).
International Day Commemorating Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief 2026 – August 22
The United Nations (UN) observed the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief on August 22, 2026. This day, first observed in 2019, aims to condemn violence and terrorism against individuals targeted for their religion or beliefs and reaffirms states’ responsibility to protect religious minorities.
Himachal Pradesh signs MoU with ISB to unlock Rs 22,600 crore forest economy potential
In August 2026, the Himachal Pradesh (HP) Forest Department signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bharti Institute of Public Policy, Indian School of Business (ISB-BIPP). This partnership aims to leverage science and technology for governance to tap into the state's estimated Rs 22,600 crore untapped forest and pastoral economy potential.
Chhattisgarh signs MoUs to strengthen PM GatiShakti implementation
In August 2026, the Government of Chhattisgarh signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) and National Logistics Data Services Ltd (NLDSL). These agreements aim to enhance geospatial technology and integrated logistics data usage, respectively, under the Prime Minister GatiShakti framework.
Razorpay launches Multi-Currency EEFC Settlement Facility for exporters
In August 2026, Razorpay, a payments platform, introduced the Multi-Currency Exchange Earners’ Foreign Currency (EEFC) Account. This facility, in partnership with RBL Bank, allows exporters and international businesses to retain earnings in foreign currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, AED, SGD) without immediate conversion to INR, optimizing global payments and reducing forex costs.
Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Funds 1 Crore Flags for Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan 2026
The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved state finance commission funding for the production of one crore (10 million) flags. These flags are intended for the 'Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan 2026' campaign in urban areas. This initiative supports the patriotic campaign by ensuring widespread availability of the national flag.
UP Cabinet Approves Stamp Duty Waiver for Closed Sugar Mill Land Transfers
On August 22, 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet approved a waiver of stamp duty and registration fees. This waiver applies to the transfer of lands belonging to closed sugar mills, specifically those of Uttar Pradesh State Spinning Company Limited and Uttar Pradesh Yarn Company Limited. The lands are being transferred to the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority.
Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves 180-Day Maternity Leave Twice for State Employees
The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet approved a policy on August 22, 2026, granting female state government employees 180 days of paid maternity leave twice during their service. This benefit also extends to adoptive mothers. The amendment removes the earlier requirement of a two-year gap between the first and second leaves, aligning state rules with central laws.
Two Indian Doctors Nominated for Pakistan’s Nishan-e-Imtiaz Award
In August 2026, Pakistan nominated two Mumbai-based Parsi doctors, Dr. Jal Ratanji Patel and Dr. Jal Dhaybho-Koo, for its highest civilian award, the Nishan-e-Imtiaz. This posthumous recognition is for maintaining the confidentiality of Muhammad Ali Jinnah's terminal illness (tuberculosis) before the Partition of India in 1947, a historically significant act.
CMLRE Releases National Report on Deep-Sea and Distant-Water Fishery Resources
The Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, released a comprehensive 'National Report on Deep-Sea and Distant-Water Fishery Resources of the Indian EEZ' in August 2026. This report assesses India's marine resources, providing a roadmap for sustainable Blue Economy development and biodiversity conservation. The studies were supported by India's research vessel, FORV Sagar Sampada.
Japan's Defence Minister Shinjirō Koizumi Visits India to Boost Defence Ties
Japanese Defence Minister Shinjirō Koizumi visited India from August 19-20, 2026, to strengthen defence cooperation and maritime security. During his visit, a Memorandum of Arrangement (MoA) on Maritime Security Cooperation was signed. Key outcomes included establishing a Working Group, enhancing defence technology cooperation between DRDO and ATLA, and expanding bilateral military exercises like Dharma Guardian and JAIMEX.
PhonePe Partners with MeitY and DPIIT for PM GatiShakti & Startup Ecosystem
In August 2026, PhonePe signed MoUs with MeitY and DPIIT. The MoU with MeitY integrates PhonePe PulsePro insights into the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan portal for data-driven infrastructure planning. The partnership with DPIIT, also involving Shell India, aims to strengthen the startup ecosystem by providing technology access, mentorship, and market opportunities.
Union Cabinet Approves Permanent Bench of J&K High Court in Ladakh
The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved the establishment of a permanent bench of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh in the Union Territory of Ladakh in August 2026. This decision aims to improve access to justice for people in remote regions like Leh and Kargil, reducing the need for travel to Srinagar or Jammu for court hearings.
Jindal Steel & IIT Hyderabad Partner for Advanced Steel Solutions CoE
In August 2026, Jindal Steel Limited and IIT Hyderabad signed an MoU to establish the Jindal Steel Centre of Excellence (CoE) at the IITH campus. This first-of-its-kind centre will focus on High-Strength, Value-Added, and Value-Engineered Steel Products and Solutions. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development and adoption of advanced steel for infrastructure and industrial sectors, supporting Viksit Bharat 2047.
Wizzmoni and Oman Air Launch AI-Powered 'Wizz Voyager' Multi-Currency Travel Card
In August 2026, Wizzmoni Financial Services Ltd. partnered with Oman Air to launch the co-branded "Wizz Voyager Multi-Currency Card." This AI-powered travel card supports over 35 global currencies, offering a seamless digital forex experience for international travelers, including students, professionals, and tourists. It combines payments, rewards, and travel benefits into a single platform.
IDFC FIRST Bank Completes Maiden USD 500 Million Bond Issuance
IDFC FIRST Bank successfully completed its maiden USD 500 million bond issuance in August 2026 through its IFSC Banking Unit at GIFT City, Gandhinagar. This marks the bank's debut in global debt capital markets. The 3-year bonds (due 2029) have a fixed coupon rate of 5.625% and carry an investment-grade 'BBB-' rating from S&P Global Ratings.
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir Elected 23rd President of Bangladesh
In August 2026, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, a senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was elected as the 23rd President of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh for a 5-year term. He secured 255 votes in a parliamentary election, defeating Colonel (Retd.) Oli Ahmed. This marks the first contested presidential election in Bangladesh in 35 years.
Somanath Panicker Appointed to RBI Central Board; Anand Mahindra Re-appointed
In August 2026, the Government of India appointed former ISRO Chairman Somanath Sreedhara Panicker and re-appointed Anand Gopal Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, as Part-time, Non-official Directors on the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Both appointments are for a period of 4 years, effective August 20, 2026.
Flying Wedge Defence Unveils India’s First AI Fighter Jet ‘FWD Supreme Lite’
In August 2026, Indian defence startup Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace Technologies Private Limited (FWDA) unveiled 'FWD Supreme Lite', India's first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-piloted fighter jet program. This indigenously designed demonstrator weighs around 250 kg, offers up to 30 hours endurance and a 3,000 km range, and is designed for precision strikes and swarm operations.
National Commission for Women Launches 'Yashoda AI' in Jalandhar
In August 2026, the National Commission for Women (NCW) launched the “Yashoda AI – Women’s Path to AI Empowerment” program at Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab. This initiative aims to boost AI literacy, digital empowerment, and cyber safety among women, encouraging their participation in emerging technologies. Yashoda AI was initially launched in May 2025 in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.
Cabinet Approves ₹13,041 Crore Infrastructure Projects Across Five States
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved five infrastructure projects worth ₹13,041 crore in August 2026. This includes four multi-tracking railway projects costing ₹9,450 crore in West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, and a four-laning of NH-22 in Bihar at an estimated cost of ₹3,590.73 crore.
President Droupadi Murmu Assents to Taxation and Payment Systems Amendment Laws
In August 2026, President Droupadi Murmu approved the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Act, 2026, and an amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act of 2007. These legislative changes aim to attract foreign capital, promote domestic electronics manufacturing, facilitate data centers, and modify the framework for digital payment charges. The Taxation Act replaces a prior ordinance for tax exemptions.
UNHCR, SICCI, and Ethiraj College Partner for Refugee Education and Inclusion
In August 2026, the UNHCR, Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), and Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai, signed an MoU. This collaboration aims to enhance education, research, and community engagement to foster self-reliance and inclusion of refugees in India, particularly Sri Lankan refugees in Tamil Nadu. The Department of Social Work at Ethiraj College will coordinate activities.
COAS General Dhiraj Seth Visits Nepal to Enhance Defence Cooperation
General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, made a three-day official visit to Nepal from August 17-19, 2026, at the invitation of his Nepali counterpart. The visit aimed to strengthen defence cooperation and military-to-military ties. During his visit, he was conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army by Nepal's President Ramchandra Paudel.
Paul Merchants Finance Becomes First NBFC to Open Exclusive Silver Loan Branches
In August 2026, Paul Merchants Finance Private Limited (PMFPL) became India's first Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) to launch exclusive branches for 'Loan Against Silver' products. This initiative aligns with the RBI’s Lending Against Gold and Silver Collateral Directions, 2025, formalizing silver-backed lending. Currently operating in Chandigarh, PMFPL plans phased expansion nationwide, offering loans from ₹2,000 to ₹15 lakh.
RIL Partners with Rolls-Royce for Indigenous AMCA Engine Development
In August 2026, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) announced a strategic partnership with Rolls-Royce Limited to design, develop, and manufacture an indigenous combat engine for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This collaboration aims to establish an Aerospace Gas Turbine Complex in India, integrating Rolls-Royce's expertise with RIL's manufacturing capabilities to achieve a sovereign engine solution for the 5th-generation stealth aircraft.
Ind-Ra Raises India’s FY27 Economic Growth Forecast to 6.8%
In August 2026, India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra), a Fitch Group subsidiary, revised India's GDP growth forecast for FY27 upwards by 10 basis points to 6.8%, citing lower crude oil prices. Previously, the estimate was 6.7%. Ind-Ra also projected nominal GDP growth at 10.4% and highlighted risks like geopolitical developments, high inflation, and weaker capital expenditure.
Lakshmanan Meyyappan Becomes World’s Youngest Male CA at 16
In August 2026, Indian-origin Lakshmanan Meyyappan, based in Dubai, was recognized by Guinness World Records as the World’s Youngest Male Chartered Accountant (CA). He achieved the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification at 16 years and 141 days in June 2021, completing it in approximately one year. He also earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder designation in 2025.
Dr. Eluri Sreedhar Appointed Honorary Advisor to BRICS CCI
In August 2026, Dr. Eluri Sreedhar, a renowned educator and technocrat, was appointed as an Honorary Advisor to the Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BRICS CCI). Sameep Shastri, Chairman of BRICS CCI, presented the appointment letter. Dr. Sreedhar is known for founding Sreedhar’s CCE and will contribute to economic collaboration and community empowerment initiatives.
LIC Receives RBI Approval to Increase HDFC Bank Stake to 9.99%
In August 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted approval to Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to acquire an aggregate holding of up to 9.99% of HDFC Bank Limited's paid-up share capital or voting rights. LIC currently holds 4.11% in HDFC Bank. This approval, subject to regulatory compliance, offers LIC flexibility to strengthen its position as a major institutional investor.
India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XV Commences
The 15th edition of the India-Thailand Joint Annual Military Exercise MAITREE-XV began in August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand. Conducted from August 18 to August 31, 2026, the exercise aims to enhance military cooperation, interoperability, and joint operational capabilities between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army. Both contingents comprise 85 personnel each.
Government Approves Incentive Scheme for Domestic PNG Connections Expansion
The Government of India approved an Incentive Scheme for Promotion of Domestic Piped Natural Gas (PNG) Connections, effective September 1, 2026. This initiative aims to accelerate the expansion of household PNG connections, providing clean, safe, and affordable cooking fuel nationwide. City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies will receive incentives for converting unbilled connections and expanding networks.
MeitY Approves 31 More Projects Under Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme
In August 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) sanctioned 31 additional proposals totaling Rs 7,877 crore under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS). This brings the total ECMS projects to 106 across 15 states, covering 30 products. These new projects are projected to generate 9,588 direct employment opportunities and an estimated production value of Rs 82,243 crore.
MoD Releases 6th Positive Indigenisation List with 405 Strategic Defence Items
In August 2026, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) notified the 6th Positive Indigenisation List (PIL), featuring 405 defence items for domestic manufacturing. This list includes 389 items for Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and 16 for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), aiming to reduce imports and boost 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. The initiative has an estimated business potential of Rs 3,070 crore.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Flags Off 'Aparajita – Parang La 2026' Girls Trek
On August 18, 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off 'Aparajita – Parang La 2026', an All India Girls High Altitude Long Trek by the NCC. This 250-km, 30-day expedition will cross the Parang La Pass (5,578 m) connecting Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. It aims to promote women empowerment, leadership, endurance, self-confidence, and national integration among young cadets.
DBN Partners with Chhattisgarh Government for BharatNet Program
In August 2026, Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), formerly USOF, partnered with Chhattisgarh State BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (CSBIL), BSNL, and CHiPS for the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) in Chhattisgarh. The Government of India approved Rs 3,942 crore for this state-led model. The program aims to upgrade and expand broadband connectivity to 11,682 Gram Panchayats and villages, enhancing digital inclusion.
J&K Bank Partners with HDFC Life to Offer Wider Insurance Choices
In August 2026, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) Bank Limited entered into a Corporate Agency Agreement (CAA) with HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited. This partnership aims to expand insurance offerings for J&K Bank customers, providing them access to HDFC Life's diverse suite of products covering protection, savings, investments, and retirement planning. This aligns with IRDAI's 'Insurance for All by 2047' vision.
Razorpay Launches Vulcan, India’s First AI Payments Foundation Model
In August 2026, Razorpay, a prominent Indian fintech company, introduced "Razorpay Vulcan", India’s inaugural Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered payments foundation model. Developed using NVIDIA and AWS technology, Vulcan aims to enhance the reliability, security, and predictability of digital transactions. It addresses payment failures, fraud, and transaction routing challenges across India’s digital payments ecosystem.
MYAS Announces National Sports Awards 2025; 17 Arjuna Awardees Named
In August 2026, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) announced the National Sports Awards 2025. Seventeen athletes, including Tejaswin Shankar (Athletics) and Divya Deshmukh (Chess), were selected for the Arjuna Award. Notably, no athlete received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, a rare occurrence. Former footballer I Arumainayagam received the Arjuna Award (Lifetime).
Parichha Weir in Jhansi Recognized as World Heritage Irrigation Structure by ICID
In August 2026, the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) designated the 140-year-old Parichha Weir in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, as a World Heritage Irrigation Structure (WHIS). This recognition honors its historical importance as the headworks of the Betwa Canal System and its continued role in irrigating vast areas in UP and MP. The award will be formally presented in October 2026 in Marseille, France.
Sadbhavana Diwas 2026 Observed on August 20, Marks Rajiv Gandhi's 82nd Birth Anniversary
Sadbhavana Diwas, or Harmony Day, is observed annually on August 20 in India to foster peace, unity, and communal harmony. This day also commemorates the 82nd birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was born on August 20, 1944. The day was first observed on August 20, 1992, after his assassination in 1991.
SEBI Launches Two New Portals to Strengthen Cybersecurity Incident Reporting
In August 2026, Tuhin Kanta Pandey, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), launched two new web portals: 'SEBI Incident Reporting' and 'Cyber Suraksha'. These portals aim to enhance cybersecurity and information sharing across the securities market ecosystem. The 'SEBI Incident Reporting' portal is structured for timely cyber incident reporting, while 'Cyber Suraksha' serves as a central hub for cybersecurity information.
Indrajaal-Sigma Consortium Secures Orders for Mobile Anti-Drone Patrol Vehicles
The Indrajaal-Sigma consortium received Rs 155 crore orders from the Ministry of Home Affairs for Indrajaal Ranger Mobile Anti-Drone Patrol Vehicles (ADPVs). These ADPVs are India's only Anti-Rogue Drone Technology Committee (ARDTC)-approved mobile Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) platforms. The deployment aims to enhance India's indigenous counter-drone capabilities for border and homeland security.
Dr. Jitendra Singh Launches RSSDI Rural Outreach Digital Portal and VISHWAS Diabetes Awareness Video Library
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, from the Ministry of Science and Technology, virtually launched the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) Rural Outreach Digital Portal. He also introduced the VISHWAS Diabetes Awareness Video Library. The initiative aims to make diabetes prevention a national priority, emphasizing a community-led, technology-enabled, and data-driven approach for rural and underserved areas.
Tata Power and IIT Bombay Sign MRA to Accelerate Clean Energy Technologies
Tata Power Company Limited and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) signed a Master Research Agreement (MRA) in August 2026. This partnership aims to accelerate the development, scaling, and commercialization of next-generation energy technologies and clean energy solutions. The collaboration will focus on bridging the gap between laboratory research and commercial deployment to strengthen India’s clean energy transition and energy security.
India Launches First-Ever Guide to Grasslands and ONEs at UNCCD CoP17
The Government of India launched its first-ever 'Guide to Grasslands and Other Open Natural Ecosystems (ONEs) of India' at a side event during the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The guide, developed under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), aims to promote conservation and sustainable management of India's diverse open ecosystems.
India and Armenia Sign MoU to Strengthen Bilateral Defence Partnership
In August 2026, the Government of India, through its Ministry of Defence (MoD), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Armenia to strengthen their bilateral defence industrial partnership. The agreement was signed in Yerevan during Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh’s official visit. Both nations aim to enhance cooperation in defence research and development, innovation, shared production, and expand defence industrial linkages.
YES Bank Launches 'YES Essence', a Women-focused Credit Card
In August 2026, YES Bank Limited introduced 'YES Essence Credit Card', a lifestyle and rewards credit card specifically designed for women. This card aims to cater to the evolving lifestyle and healthcare needs of young professionals, salaried customers, and digital-savvy women. It offers accelerated rewards on various spending categories, along with lifestyle and health benefits like annual preventive health check-ups and movie tickets.
Qatar-India Postal Remittance Service Powered by UPI Operationalised in Doha
In August 2026, the Qatar-India Postal Remittance Service, utilizing PosTransfer powered by Unified Payments Interface (UPI), became operational in Doha, Qatar. This new service enables faster, secure, and cost-effective cross-border remittance between Qatar and India. It was developed by Qatar Post in partnership with India's Department of Posts, Universal Postal Union’s Interconnection Platform (UPU-IP), and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL).
BSE and PHDCCI Sign MoU to Expand Capital Market Access for MSMEs
In August 2026, BSE Limited and the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The partnership aims to enhance Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)' access to equity financing through capital markets. It will create awareness about Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), SME listing procedures, and the benefits for MSMEs becoming publicly listed companies, providing expert guidance and capacity-building initiatives.
Dr. Jitendra Singh Conferred National Anubhav Awards 2026
In August 2026, Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, conferred the 9th National Anubhav Awards 2026. The awards were presented to 15 selected awardees, including 5 Anubhav awardees and 10 Jury Certificate winners, during the 60th Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshop in New Delhi. The awards recognize exceptional contributions by retiring government employees to nation-building through various initiatives.
Shabnam Sinha Appointed as Chairperson of Airtel Payments Bank
In August 2026, Shabnam Sinha was appointed as the Chairperson of Airtel Payments Bank Limited for a three-year term, effective from October 1, 2026. Her appointment received formal approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). She succeeds Sunil Bharti Mittal, who stepped down as Non-Executive Chairman. Sinha brings over three decades of leadership experience across development finance, financial services, and public policy.
World Humanitarian Day 2026 – August 19, Theme: "Honouring fallen humanitarians..."
World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is observed annually on August 19 globally. This day honors humanitarian workers who provide life-saving assistance during crises and advocates for the protection of humanitarian personnel and International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The 2026 theme is "Honouring fallen humanitarians and calling for greater protection of health care." The day commemorates the 2003 Baghdad bombing that killed 22 humanitarian workers.
SpaceX Sets Record with Two Falcon 9 Launches Just 38 Minutes Apart
SpaceX achieved a company record by launching two Falcon 9 rockets within just 38.5 minutes. One launch from Florida deployed eight Globalstar satellites, while the other from California carried the classified USSF-366 mission for the US Space Force. Both missions included successful first-stage booster landings.
Jal Jeevan Mission Completes 7 Years, Reaches Over 82% Rural Tap Water Coverage
The Ministry of Jal Shakti's Jal Jeevan Mission, launched on August 15, 2019, has completed seven years. It has significantly increased rural household tap water connections from 16.7% to over 82%, covering more than 15.91 crore households. The mission aims to provide functional household tap connections to every rural home by December 2028.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Launches CBDC-Based DBT for PMGKAY in Two UTs
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)-based Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of food subsidies under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for Chandigarh and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. This marks the first large-scale adoption of CBDC in a central government welfare program, allowing beneficiaries to purchase foodgrains directly with digital rupee.
NITI Aayog Releases Report on Regulatory Framework for India's Professional Services
NITI Aayog released its 3rd report, "India’s Services Sector: Insights on Regulatory Regime in Professional Services," assessing India's regulatory framework for professional services. The report highlights challenges and suggests a four-pronged strategy to strengthen the sector. Professional services contribute nearly 25% of India's total services exports.
MoD Signs Rs.1,577 Crore Contracts with TASL and NIBE for Loiter Munition Systems
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts worth Rs.1,577 crore with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and NIBE Private Limited for procuring Loiter Munition Systems for the Indian Army. This procurement, under the 'Buy (Indian)' category via Fast Track Procedure, aims to enhance the Army's precision strike capabilities and boost indigenous defence manufacturing.
NIELIT Launches Cyber Kushti 2026 National Cybersecurity AI Hackathon
The National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) launched Cyber Kushti 2026, a national cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI) hackathon. Aimed at evaluating human judgment in AI-driven cybersecurity scenarios, the hackathon supports the 3rd National Conference on Cyber Security, Digital Forensics and Intelligence (NCCDFI 2026) in New Delhi.
NABARD Launches RSVC-AMRIT Platform for Rural Innovation and Technology Transfer
NABARD, in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (OPSA), launched the RSVC-AMRIT platform. This digital ecosystem aims to strengthen rural innovation and technology transfer by connecting innovators, startups, and rural communities. It serves as a national repository for rural innovations and best practices, supported by NABARD's RuTAGe Smart Village Centre (RSVC) initiative.
MIDHANI First Indian Company to Receive GE Aerospace S400 Lab Approval
Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) has become the first Indian company to secure the Independent and International Metallic Material Laboratory (S400) approval from GE Aerospace. This certification allows MIDHANI to conduct extensive chemical, mechanical, and metallurgical testing of high-performance metallic materials and aerospace alloys, enhancing its capabilities in advanced aerospace materials.
RBI Imposes Rs. 59.20 Lakh Monetary Penalty on IndusInd Bank
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of Rs. 59.20 lakh on IndusInd Bank Limited. The penalty was for non-compliance with RBI directions on Interest Rate on Deposits and Securitisation of Standard Assets. This action follows a Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation (ISE) concerning the bank’s financial position as of March 31, 2025.
Kawa UAV Conducts Maiden Flight of Divyastra Mk3 Jet-Powered Loitering Munition
Kawa UAV Pvt. Ltd. successfully conducted the maiden flight of Divyastra Mk3, India's first indigenous jet-powered loitering munition. Developed with an indigenous jet engine by DG Propulsion, the Divyastra Mk3 offers higher speed, extended range, and reduced reaction time compared to conventional propeller-powered systems, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Magnus Carlsen Wins Esports World Cup Chess Title 2026 for Second Consecutive Year
Norwegian chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, representing Team Liquid, won the Esports World Cup Chess title 2026 for the second consecutive year in Paris, France. He defeated Belarusian GM Denis Lazavik 2-0 in the final, remaining undefeated throughout the tournament. Hikaru Nakamura secured third place.
West Bengal Formally Launches Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance Scheme
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari formally launched the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) in the state on August 16, 2026. This was done alongside the Mukhyamantri Swasthya Bima Yojana, expanding healthcare coverage. The scheme will cover all citizens aged above 70, including around 35 lakh elderly beneficiaries.
BHEL, Norway’s Hystar AS Partner for PEM Electrolyser Manufacturing in India
In August 2026, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and Norway-based Hystar AS announced a strategic collaboration. This partnership aims for phased indigenization and local manufacturing of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyser systems in India. The goal is to support green hydrogen projects and enhance India's contribution to the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) and Make in India initiative.
India Celebrates 80th Independence Day 2026; Commemorates 150 Years of Vande Mataram
India celebrated its 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026, at Red Fort, Delhi, with PM Narendra Modi delivering his 13th consecutive speech. The celebration highlighted two themes: 150 years of 'Vande Mataram' and 'Yuva Shakti-Leading the Journey to Viksit Bharat@2047'. For the first time, 'Vande Mataram' was played and sung at the Red Fort.
IN-SPACe Approves India's First Fully Commercial Earth Observation Satellite Constellation
In August 2026, IN-SPACe approved India's first indigenous, fully commercial Earth Observation (EO) satellite constellation under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. An agreement was signed with the Allied Orbits Private Limited consortium, led by PixxelSpace India, to develop and operate a 12-satellite constellation with various advanced imaging capabilities by 2029.
NITI Aayog Identifies Four Key Sectors for India's Global Manufacturing Ambition
NITI Aayog released a report titled "Key Sectors to Position India as a Global Manufacturing Hub" in August 2026. The report, by Vice Chairperson Ashok Kumar Lahiri, assessed India's manufacturing sector and identified chemicals, textiles, telecom and networking equipment, and solar PV manufacturing as four high-potential sectors to drive growth towards Viksit Bharat by 2047.
CCI Hosts BRICS Competition Authorities Meeting in Udaipur, Rajasthan
In August 2026, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) hosted the Meeting of Heads of BRICS Competition Authorities in Udaipur, Rajasthan. This event, held under India's BRICS Chairship 2026, aimed to foster cooperation on fair competition and address emerging challenges in competition law and policy among BRICS nations.
L&T to Build India's Largest NVIDIA B300 AI Factory in Chennai for Together AI
Larsen & Toubro (L&T), through its AI infrastructure arm LTN Compute and data centre business Vyoma.AI, secured a ₹10,000–15,000 crore order. The project is to build India’s largest single-cluster NVIDIA B300 AI factory at its Chennai data centre campus for USA-based Together AI. This facility will deploy 10,000 NVIDIA B300 GPUs to support large-scale AI workloads.
India-Nepal Sign MoUs for Eight Development Projects Worth NPR 803 Million
In August 2026, India and Nepal signed eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs). With a combined estimated cost of NPR 803 million, these projects will be supported by grant assistance from the Government of India and will focus on education, health, and agriculture sectors across seven districts in Nepal.
SEBI Proposes Mandatory Colour-Coded Credit Risk-o-Meter for Debt Securities
In August 2026, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) released a consultation paper proposing a mandatory, colour-coded Credit Risk-o-Meter for debt securities. This initiative aims to simplify credit risk assessment and comparison for investors. The proposed meter builds on SEBI's existing Risk-o-Meter framework for Mutual Funds and maps credit ratings into six visual risk levels.
IFSCA Grants Investment Banking License to Nexent Capital in GIFT City
In August 2026, the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) granted an Investment Banking license to Nexent Capital IFSC Private Limited (Nexent Capital). This license enables Nexent Capital to operate from Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in Gandhinagar and undertake regulated investment banking activities, supporting international companies in accessing global capital markets.
Kirti Chakra Awardee Major General Sunil Kumar Razdan Passes Away
On August 13, 2026, Major General Sunil Kumar Razdan (Retd), a Kirti Chakra and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) awardee, passed away at the age of 70 in New Delhi. Known for his distinguished military service, he was the Indian Army's first wheelchair-borne General, demonstrating immense resilience after sustaining severe injuries in a 1994 counter-terrorist operation in Jammu & Kashmir.
NCLT Launches e-Inspection and e-Certified Copy Services for Judicial Records
In August 2026, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) launched its electronic (e)-Inspection and e-Certified Copy Services as part of the e-Courts 2.0 initiative. Inaugurated by NCLT President Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal, these services aim to enhance transparency and efficiency by providing faster digital access to judicial records for stakeholders through the NCLT e-Filing portal.
Iran and Oman Agree on Strait of Hormuz Shipping Route
Iran and Oman reached an agreement on August 15, 2026, for a shipping route map through the Strait of Hormuz. This critical maritime passage connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, serving as a major oil transit chokepoint. The deal aims to protect commercial shipping and uphold sovereignty.
Hurricane Lala Strikes Hawaii, Causing Widespread Disruption
Hurricane Lala, a Category 1 storm with 75 mph winds, impacted Hawaii's Big Island and Maui on August 15, 2026. The hurricane led to significant rainfall, power outages affecting over 42,000 customers, and closures of major airports like Hilo International. Landslides and road closures were also reported due to heavy winds and rain.
Suryapath Tiranga Global Relay Marks India's 80th Independence Day
India successfully concluded its 'Suryapath Tiranga' global relay on August 15, 2026, marking the nation's 80th Independence Day. This 19-hour flag-hoisting event involved 54 Indian diplomatic missions across 54 countries. The relay followed the path of the rising sun, moving from east to west.
Delhi University Scientists Discover 3 New Cascade Frog Species in Northeast India
Scientists from the University of Delhi, led by Prof. S. D. Biju, discovered three new cascade frog species in Northeast India. Named Ammachi’s Cascade Frog (Tripura), Sendenyu Cascade Frog (Nagaland), and Beautiful Cascade Frog (West Bengal), these discoveries highlight India's rich amphibian diversity. The study, based on 15 years of fieldwork, was published in a Harvard University journal.
PCIM&H and IPC Renew MoU to Strengthen 'One Herb, One Standard' Initiative
The Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H) and the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) renewed their MoU for three years. This aims to reinforce the 'One Herb, One Standard' initiative, establishing uniform quality standards for medicinal plants across AYUSH systems. The collaboration will also align Indian standards with global requirements.
Bank of America to Acquire up to 49.9% Stake in Jio Credit for Rs. 18,268 Crore
Bank of America Corporation (BofA) entered a Joint Venture Agreement with Jio Financial Services Limited (JFSL). BofA will acquire up to 49.9% stake in Jio Credit Limited (JCL), a lending subsidiary of JFSL, for approximately Rs. 18,268 crore. This acquisition involves the exercise of warrants and is subject to regulatory approvals.
MCX and NISM Sign MoU to Establish Commodity Markets Research Centre
Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited (MCX) and National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) signed an MoU. This agreement aims to establish a dedicated Commodity Markets Research Centre at NISM. The centre will focus on research, knowledge creation, and capacity building in India’s commodity derivatives market, covering areas like hedging and risk management.
India and Malaysia Commence 3rd Edition of Exercise Udara Shakti 2026
The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) commenced the 3rd edition of their bilateral Exercise Udara Shakti at Subang Air Base, Selangor, Malaysia. This exercise, held from August 10 to 14, aims to enhance interoperability, operational coordination, and defence cooperation between the two air forces.
India and SACU Sign ToR for Preferential Trade Agreement Negotiations
India and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) for negotiations towards a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). This marks India's first ToR with the African region, aiming to boost trade and economic ties. India will focus on supplying affordable medicines and developing IT talent in the SACU region.
Amit Shah Launches Gramin Gyan Setu App to Interconnect Libraries in Gandhinagar
Union Minister Amit Shah launched the 'Gramin Gyan Setu' application to connect libraries across the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency in Gujarat. This initiative, launched on National Library Day (August 12), aims to provide rural children with access to a wider collection of books, fostering reading habits and knowledge accessibility in villages.
DIBD and NITI Aayog Sign SoI to Advance Multilingual AI for Inclusive Governance
The Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD) of MeitY and NITI Aayog signed a Statement of Intent (SoI) to promote multilingual, voice-first AI solutions. This partnership, under the BHASHINI for Seva/Sanchalan initiative, aims to enhance inclusive governance and citizen-centric public services. It will integrate AI-powered language technologies across NITI Aayog’s digital platforms.
Giriraj Singh Inaugurates IIHT SUTRA 2026, First National Conclave of IIHTs
Union Minister Giriraj Singh inaugurated IIHT SUTRA 2026, the first national conclave of Indian Institutes of Handloom Technology (IIHTs) in New Delhi. The event, themed 'IIHTs: Weaving the Future of the Indian Handloom Sector', saw the signing of three MoUs with Grasim Industries, NITRA, and IIM Sambalpur. It aimed to strengthen handloom education and industry collaboration.
Amit Shah Inaugurates NUCFDC's New Premises and 'Bank in a Box' in Mumbai
Union Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the new office of the National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation (NUCFDC) in Mumbai. During the 'Sahkar Nav-Kranti' program, he also launched 'Bank in a Box', a technology platform for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs). An MoU was exchanged between NUCFDC and NFSU for cybersecurity in UCBs.
International Left Handers Day 2026 – August 13
International Left Handers Day is observed annually on August 13. This day celebrates left-handed individuals and aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges they face in a right-handed-dominated world. The concept originated in 1976 and was officially launched by The Left-Handers Club in 1992.
President Murmu Assents to Bill Criminalizing Insult to National Song 'Vande Mataram'
President Droupadi Murmu has approved a bill making it a criminal offense to intentionally disrupt or prevent the singing of India's national song, 'Vande Mataram'. This legislation grants 'Vande Mataram' the same legal protection against insults as the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'. The Bill amends Section 3 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
Parliament Approves MMDR Amendment Bill, 2026 for Mineral Regulation
Parliament passed the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 on August 13, 2026. This bill amends the 1957 Act, centralizing control over mineral-bearing lands and restricting state taxes on mineral rights without central authorization. It also allows leaseholders to add multiple minerals to existing leases and removes caps on selling minerals from captive mines.
World Elephant Day 2026 – August 12
World Elephant Day is observed globally every year on August 12 to raise awareness about the conservation and protection of elephants. Conceptualized in 2011 by Canadian filmmakers Patricia Sims and Michael Clarke, along with Sivaporn Dardarananda, this day highlights the threats faced by elephants and promotes efforts to safeguard these 'Gentle Giants.' The first World Elephant Day was celebrated on August 12, 2012.
International Youth Day 2026 – August 12
International Youth Day (IYD) is observed globally every year on August 12 to recognize the contributions of young people, raise awareness of youth-related issues, and promote their active and equal participation in all areas of society. The theme for 2026 is "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations." The first IYD was officially observed on August 12, 2000, following its proclamation in 1998.
PM Narendra Modi Releases 'Triumph of the Indian Republic', Autobiography of Ram Nath Kovind
On August 12, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the autobiography of former President Ram Nath Kovind, titled “Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles,” at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. Published by Rupa Publications, the book chronicles Kovind’s life journey, public service, political career, and experiences as the 14th President of India (2017–2022), encouraging youth to value perseverance and democratic ideals.
Skyroot Aerospace Signs Multi-Launch Agreement with HEX20 for Vikram Missions
In August 2026, Skyroot Aerospace, an Indian private space startup, signed a Multi-Launch Agreement (MLA) with HEX20, another Indian space technology startup. This agreement covers three dedicated Vikram-series missions, starting in Q4 2027, to support HEX20’s Earth observation constellation, in-orbit payload demonstration, and provide rideshare capacity for third-party spacecraft. This marks Skyroot's first launch contract after its successful Vikram-1 mission.
Indian Navy Launches Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel 'Shruti' at GRSE Kolkata
In August 2026, the Indian Navy launched 'Shruti' (Yard 3037), the second of four Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) being built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Limited in Kolkata. The vessel, named after a Sanskrit term meaning 'that which is heard', was launched by Manika Sadhu. This project is part of a larger contract for 11 NGOPVs, with 7 assigned to GSL and 4 to GRSE.
Hungary Elects Former Supreme Court Chief András Baka as President
In August 2026, the Hungarian Parliament elected András Baka, former head of the Supreme Court of Hungary, as the country's new President. He was elected with 140 votes in favor and 6 against, with support from the governing Tisza Party. Baka is scheduled to take office on August 19, 2026, with his presidential term lasting five years or until a new constitution is adopted.
SBI Research Projects India’s GDP Growth at 8% for Q1FY27
In August 2026, the State Bank of India (SBI Research) released its latest Ecowrap report, projecting India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth to reach approximately 8% in the first quarter (Q1) of Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27). This projection is higher than the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)'s estimate of 7% and is based on SBI Research's nowcasting model, which utilizes 54 high-frequency indicators.
PMS Bazaar, NDML Accreditation Agency Partner to Expand Access to SEBI Accredited Investor Certification
PMS Bazaar, an Indian alternative investments platform, partnered with NSDL Database Management Limited (NDML Accreditation Agency) to simplify and expand access to SEBI Accredited Investor certification. This collaboration aims to provide eligible investors with benefits like lower minimum investment thresholds across various alternative investment products and access to sophisticated investment opportunities, with certification typically issued on a T+1 basis.
MHI Amends PM E-DRIVE Scheme, Reduces e-2W Incentives to FY28
In August 2026, the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) amended the PM E-DRIVE Scheme, capping the incentive for electric two-wheelers (e-2W) at Rs 5,000 per vehicle (Rs 2,500/kWh) for April 2025–March 2028. The scheme, launched in September 2024 with an outlay of Rs 11,900 crore, aims to promote EV adoption and manufacturing.
PM Modi Inaugurates 'Param Pragya' Supercomputing Facility at IIT Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 'Param Pragya', an AI-enabled high-performance supercomputing facility, at IIT Delhi's Sonipat campus in Haryana. This facility aims to boost the institute's capabilities in AI, data science, advanced computing, and interdisciplinary research. The inauguration occurred during the 57th convocation ceremony of IIT Delhi.
Dr. Jitendra Singh Dedicates 'Prakriti Gyan Dham' Eco-Educational Hub in Lucknow
Union MoS Dr. Jitendra Singh dedicated 'Prakriti Gyan Dham', India's first-of-its-kind eco-educational hub, at the Maharishi Parashar Bioresource Centre (MPBC) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Developed by CSIR-NBRI, this hub integrates scientific research, environmental education, biodiversity conservation, botanical heritage, and cultural interpretation.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah Flags Off Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra in Puducherry
Union Home Minister Amit Shah flagged off the 'Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra' campaign in Puducherry during his visit to the Union Territory. This initiative encourages citizens to celebrate the Tricolour as a symbol of India’s unity and national identity. He also presented the prestigious President’s Colours to the Puducherry Police.
Cabinet Approves One-Year Extension for ED Director Rahul Navin
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a one-year extension for Rahul Navin, the Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED). His tenure has been extended until August 13, 2027, or until further orders, beyond his superannuation on July 31, 2027.
8th Edition of India-US Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Exercise Begins in Kochi
The 8th edition of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Exercise 2026 commenced between the Indian Navy (IN) and the United States Navy (USN) in Kochi, Kerala. This five-day bilateral exercise, from August 10 to 14, 2026, aims to enhance interoperability, operational synergy, and professional cooperation between their specialist diving and EOD teams.
NeGD and AAERI Launch 'AAERI Verify' Digital Platform for Australian University Applications
The National e-Governance Division (NeGD) under MeitY, in collaboration with the Association of Australian Education Representatives in India (AAERI), launched 'AAERI Verify'. This new digital platform streamlines document verification for Indian students applying to Australian universities, leveraging DigiLocker for secure, paperless, and consent-based verification of academic, identity, and financial documents.
CCRAS and BIS Sign MoU to Establish International Quality Standards for AYUSH
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) under the Ministry of AYUSH and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) signed an MoU in New Delhi. This collaboration aims to strengthen quality standards, conformity assessment, scientific research, and capacity building in the AYUSH sector, promoting global acceptance of evidence-based traditional medicine.
RBI Releases 101st Survey of Professional Forecasters, Projects 6.6% GDP Growth for FY27
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) published its 101st Survey of Professional Forecasters (SPF), projecting India's real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth at 6.6% for Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27). This is an increase from the 6.5% estimate in the previous survey. The survey also forecasts a 7.0% growth for FY28.
IndusInd Bank and EazyDiner Launch Lifetime-Free Credit Card with UPI Payments
IndusInd Bank and EazyDiner jointly launched the 'EazyDiner IndusInd Bank Platinum RuPay Credit Card'. This new lifetime-free co-branded credit card offers dining discounts, entertainment benefits, and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment functionality, allowing customers to make UPI payments via QR codes and earn rewards on eligible transactions.
Astrobase Space Technologies Unveils India’s First Private 800 kN FFSC Rocket Engine 'EVEREST'
Astrobase Space Technologies Private Limited unveiled 'EVEREST', India’s first privately developed 800 kilonewton (kN) Full-Flow Staged Combustion (FFSC) rocket engine. Unveiled in Bengaluru, Karnataka, this engine is designed for reusable medium-lift launch vehicles and advanced orbital missions, utilizing liquid oxygen (LOX)–methane propellants.
Ariha Pangambam Wins India’s First Gold in Senior Women’s Event at Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships
Ariha Pangambam from Manipur secured India’s first-ever individual gold medal in the 10th Senior Women’s individual event at the Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships 2026 in Tagaytay City, Philippines. She achieved a top score of 19.100 points, marking a significant comeback after previously finishing 4th in 2022 and 2024.
India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-4 Medium-Range Ballistic Missile
In August 2026, India successfully conducted the flight test of the Agni-4 Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. This indigenous two-stage, surface-to-surface missile, developed by DRDO and tested by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), has a range of approximately 4,000 km and can carry a 1,000 kg payload, validating all its operational parameters.
Cabinet Approves GOBARdhan Scheme and NH Project in Assam
In August 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the GOBARdhan scheme with a budget of Rs 23,731 crore for 10 years, aiming to convert organic waste into clean energy. Simultaneously, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs sanctioned a Rs 8,970 crore national highway project in Assam, constructing a 135.87 km four-lane Guwahati–Tezpur corridor on NH-15.
Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth Becomes IAF's First Woman Fighter Combat Leader
In August 2026, Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first woman fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF) to successfully complete the prestigious Fighter Combat Leader (FCL) course. This achievement places her among the elite 1% of IAF pilots who undergo this advanced 20-week combat program at TACDE, Gwalior.
LASPL and Massivit Partner for India’s First Large-Format Additive Manufacturing Facility
In August 2026, Lohia Aerospace Systems Private Limited (LASPL) signed an MoU with Israel's Massivit to establish India's inaugural commercial large-format additive manufacturing facility in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. This USD 8-10 million investment over 1-2 years will utilize Massivit's 3D printing technology to drastically cut production cycles for aerospace and defence components, bolstering the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.
RBI Expands Upper-Layer NBFC List to 17 for FY27, Tata Sons Retained
In August 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced an expanded list of 17 Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) for the Upper Layer (NBFC-UL) for the fiscal year 2026-27, based on financials as of March 31, 2026. This is an increase from 15 in January 2025. Notably, Tata Sons, the unlisted parent company of the Tata group, remains on this list.
RBI Extends Loan Recovery Norms Deadline to January 01, 2027
In August 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extended the deadline for implementing its revised framework for loan recovery and the engagement of recovery agents. The new deadline is January 01, 2027, moved from the earlier October 01, 2026. This provides existing recovery agents, not previously covered, a one-year window to obtain certification from the IIBF or a partnered institute.
SBI Life Partners with J&K Bank for Insurance Solutions
In August 2026, SBI Life Insurance Company Limited formed a corporate agency partnership with Jammu & Kashmir Bank Limited (J&K Bank). This collaboration aims to distribute and service SBI Life's comprehensive insurance products through J&K Bank's extensive branch network across India. The initiative supports IRDAI's vision of 'Insurance for All by 2047' and strengthens financial inclusion.
Indian Bank Approves Rs 500 Crore MSME Loans on 120th Foundation Day
In August 2026, Indian Bank (IB) approved nearly Rs 500 crore in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) loans to 128 beneficiaries during a Credit Outreach Programme in New Delhi. This event, part of its 120th Foundation Day celebrations, also saw the launch of the Unified MSME Portal for seamless digital lending. IB aims to mobilize credit proposals worth Rs 1,250 crore.
Shah Rukh Khan Tops Kroll's 2025 Indian Celebrity Brand Valuation at USD 177.9 Million
In August 2026, Kroll's 11th 'Celebrity Brand Valuation 2025' report revealed Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan as India's most valuable celebrity, with a brand value of USD 177.9 million. Ranveer Singh secured second place (USD 162.9 million), while Virat Kohli dropped to third (USD 158.4 million). The combined brand value of the top 25 celebrities was USD 2 billion, a 3.7% decrease from the previous year.
Standard Chartered Gets IFSCA Approval for Wealth Management at GIFT City
In August 2026, Standard Chartered Bank received approval from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) to offer wealth management products and services through its branch at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This allows the bank to expand its investment solutions for resident and non-resident clients, enhancing GIFT City's role as a global financial hub. Standard Chartered was the first foreign bank to operate in GIFT City in 2020.
Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa Wins Maiden Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz Title
Indian Grandmaster (GM) R Praggnanandhaa secured his first Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz title in Saint Louis, Missouri, USA, from July 31 to August 7, 2026. He outperformed Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan by dominating the rapid section and maintaining his lead throughout the blitz games, finishing with an impressive 23.5 points.
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2026 – August 9
The United Nations (UN) observes the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, also known as 'World Tribal Day,' annually on August 9. This day recognizes the invaluable contributions, diverse cultures, traditions, languages, and knowledge systems of indigenous communities globally. The 2026 theme is “Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being”.
President Presents Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and National Handloom Awards 2025
President Droupadi Murmu presented the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and National Handloom Awards 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 7, 2026, during the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations. A total of 22 awards, including three Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and nineteen National Handloom Awards, were conferred to recognize excellence, innovation, and preservation in the handloom sector. Commemorative postage stamps and a book were also released.
Ariha Pangambam Wins India's First Senior Gold in Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships
Indian gymnast Ariha Pangambam from Manipur secured India's first-ever senior gold medal in the individual women’s category at the Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships held in Tagaytay City, Philippines, on August 7, 2026. She achieved a winning score of 19.100. This marks a significant milestone for India in this competitive gymnastics discipline.
Bengaluru Police Launch Operation Mukta Against Illegal Immigrants
Bengaluru City Police initiated 'Operation Mukta' on August 8, 2026, to identify and track suspected illegal immigrants, particularly Bangladeshi nationals. The operation involved early morning raids in various localities, deploying over 500 police personnel. Its aim is to verify identities and initiate deportation procedures for unauthorized foreign nationals.
Maharashtra Disburses Loan Waiver to 6.2 Lakh Farmers Under Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Scheme
Maharashtra commenced direct cash transfers under the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Shetkari Karj-Mafi Yojana on August 7, 2026. The initial phase covered over 6.2 lakh eligible farmer accounts, providing a short-term crop loan waiver of up to ₹2 lakh. The scheme also includes incentives of up to ₹50,000 for regular borrowers.
CCRAS and BIS Sign MoU for Ayurveda Standards and Research
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) signed an MoU on August 7, 2026, in New Delhi. This agreement aims to develop globally benchmarked quality standards, conformity assessment, and scientific research for the entire Ayush sector. The collaboration will enhance the safety and validation of Ayurvedic products.
India Develops Beam Catcher for International FAIR Particle Physics Project
India has successfully developed a beam catcher for the Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR) project in Darmstadt, Germany. The first of three indigenously built units arrived at the FAIR site on August 7, 2026, for installation in the Super Fragment Separator (super-FRS). This critical component, designed by CSIR-CMERI, absorbs high-energy heavy-ion beams for nuclear physics research.
RBI Revises Loan Recovery Rules, New Directions Effective January 1, 2027
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued nine circulars on August 6, 2026, creating a unified framework called the 'Amendment Directions' for loan recovery practices. Effective January 1, 2027, these rules set strict timings for recovery calls and visits (8:00 AM to 7:00 PM), mandate a one-day notice for physical visits, and require recording of all recovery calls. Limits are also placed on remote locking of financed devices.
16th BRICS Trade Ministers’ Meeting Concludes in Jaipur, Focus on MSMEs and GVCs
The 16th BRICS Trade Ministers’ Meeting concluded in Jaipur, Rajasthan, on August 7, 2026, under India’s BRICS Chairship. Chaired by Union Minister Piyush Goyal, the meeting finalized the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2030 and adopted the Jaipur Consensus. Key outcomes include guiding principles for MSME credit to address trade finance gaps and an action plan for Global Value Chains.
RBI Maintains Policy Rates in 3rd Bi-monthly Monetary Policy FY2026-27
The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) held its 3rd Bi-monthly meeting for FY2026-27 from August 3-5, 2026. Chaired by Governor Sanjay Malhotra, the MPC unanimously decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. The SDF rate remains at 5.00% and the MSF rate and Bank Rate at 5.50%. RBI also revised its FY27 GDP growth forecast upwards to 6.7%.
NITI Aayog Releases Report on Empowering Caregivers in Viksit Bharat@2047
NITI Aayog unveiled the "Reimagining Care: Strategies for Empowering Caregivers in Viksit Bharat@2047" report in August 2026 in New Delhi. This report outlines a strategy to create an organized, professional, and future-ready caregiving system through policy reforms, workforce development, and institutional backing. It aims to improve care quality, enhance professional recognition, and generate employment opportunities.
Pawan Hans and Noemi Aerospace Partner for Electric Seaplane Technology
Pawan Hans Limited (PHL), under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, signed a non-binding MoU with Norway's Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) in August 2026. The partnership aims to explore collaboration in next-generation sustainable aviation technologies, particularly electric seaplane solutions. This initiative supports the Government of India's vision for green aviation and regional connectivity.
Supreme Court Extends Mandatory Third-Party Insurance for New Vehicles
In August 2026, the Supreme Court of India extended the mandatory third-party insurance period for newly purchased vehicles by one year. New cars will now have four years of third-party insurance, and two-wheelers will have six years. This decision aims to enhance compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the IRDAI was directed to implement it immediately.
Annapurni Subramaniam Wins COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal 2026
In August 2026, Dr. Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), was awarded the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) Vikram Sarabhai Medal 2026. She received this prestigious honor for her outstanding contributions to space research in developing countries. She is the first Indian woman and only the third woman globally to receive this biennial award, presented at the 46th COSPAR Scientific Assembly in Florence, Italy.
Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan Gets One-Year Extension
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a one-year service extension for T.V. Somanathan, the Cabinet Secretary of India, in August 2026. His tenure was set to end on August 30, 2026. Somanathan assumed office as the 33rd Cabinet Secretary on August 30, 2024, succeeding Rajiv Gauba.
Justice Manmohan Singh Liberhan Passes Away at 87
Justice Manmohan Singh Liberhan, former Chief Justice of the Madras High Court and Andhra Pradesh High Court, passed away in August 2026 at the age of 87. He was widely known for heading the one-man Liberhan Ayodhya Commission of Inquiry, which investigated the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition. The commission submitted its report in 2009 after 17 years.
National Javelin Day 2026 Celebrated on August 7
National Javelin Day is observed annually across India on August 7. The day commemorates Neeraj Chopra’s historic gold medal victory in the Men’s Javelin Throw event at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. This celebration, first observed in 2022, aims to promote the sport of javelin throw and inspire young athletes nationwide. 2026 marks the 5th observance of this day.
TN Finance Minister Presents TVK Government's First Budget FY27
In August 2026, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson presented the maiden budget for Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27) of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led government in Chennai. The state aims to become a USD 1.5 trillion economy by 2031, focusing on AI, industrial expansion, education, and social welfare. Key allocations include Rs 52,920 crore for education and new gold assistance schemes.
Air India Appoints Tewolde Gebremariam as New CEO & MD
In August 2026, Air India announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam, former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO & MD). He succeeds Campbell Wilson, who stepped down in April 2026. Gebremariam brings extensive experience in international network expansion and airline operations, subject to mandatory security clearance.
India Hosts BRICS National Statistical Offices Meeting in Lucknow
India hosted the Meeting of Heads of National Statistical Offices (NSOs) of BRICS countries in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, from August 3-4, 2026. The two-day event focused on "Quality Statistics as a Driver of Change." This meeting underscores India's active role in BRICS collaborations.
Environmental Performance Index 2026: Estonia Tops, India Ranks 176th
The Environmental Performance Index (EPI 2026), released by Yale University in July 2026, ranked India 176th out of 177 countries with a score of 22.46, making it the second-lowest ranked nation. Estonia retained the top spot with 74.79 points, followed by Luxembourg and the UK. India showed marginal improvement over 10 years but performed poorly in environmental health.
PM-VBRY Completes First Year, Formalising 72 Lakh New Workers
The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana (PM-VBRY) concluded its first year on August 1, 2026. The scheme has successfully brought over 72 lakh first-time employees into the formal workforce since its launch in August 2025. It is implemented by the Ministry of Labour & Employment through the EPFO.
Glaw Lake, Arunachal Pradesh, Designated as India's 101st Ramsar Site
In August 2026, Glaw Lake in Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, was declared India's 101st Ramsar Site by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. This recognition signifies it as a Wetland of International Importance under the 1971 Ramsar Convention, making it the first Ramsar Site for Arunachal Pradesh. The lake is located within Kamlang Tiger Reserve.
PM Modi Launches 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan' in August 2026. This 100-week nationwide campaign aims to mobilize young people against substance abuse. PM Modi addressed over 1 crore youth, emphasizing the objective of making India drug-free through weekly activities spanning art, culture, sports, and meditation.
DoP Releases Stamp for Padma Vibhushan Satish Gujral's Birth Centenary
In August 2026, the Department of Posts (DoP) under the Ministry of Communications issued a Rs. 5 commemorative postage stamp. This stamp honors the birth centenary of Padma Vibhushan Satish Gujral, recognizing his significant contributions to Indian art, architecture, and culture. Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia unveiled the stamp in New Delhi.
IAF Conducts Exercise 'ROTOR CLAP-III' for Counter-Drone Capability
The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted the 3rd edition of Exercise ROTOR CLAP-III, a Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (Counter-UAS) drill, at the Pokhran Field Firing Range, Rajasthan, from August 1-2, 2026. This exercise aimed to validate helicopter-based operational concepts against emerging drone threats through live missile and rocket firing. It involved various attack, transport, and utility helicopters.
BEL and Esri India MoU for Defence GIS, GeoAI Solutions
In August 2026, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna CPSE under MoD, and Esri India signed an MoU. This partnership aims to develop advanced Geographic Information System (GIS), Location Intelligence, and Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) solutions for India's defence sector. The collaboration supports timely deployment of GIS solutions for urgent operational requirements.
Pacific Island Nation Nauru Renamed as Republic of Naoero
In August 2026, the Pacific Island country of Nauru officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero. This change aims to reflect its traditional identity, national language, and cultural heritage, as approved by a constitutional amendment in May 2026. The country code will change from NRU to NRO, and citizens will be known as dei-Naoero.
HDFC Bank Launches 'Max for Seniors' and 'Max for Her' Savings Accounts
In August 2026, HDFC Bank introduced two new savings account variants: 'Max for Seniors' and 'Max for Her'. These accounts are tailored to provide customized benefits for senior citizens and women, respectively. Both variants include features like cyber protection, an Auto Sweep Facility for higher returns, and various lifestyle privileges.
AS Rajeev Appointed Acting Central Vigilance Commissioner
In August 2026, A S Rajeev, a Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), assumed charge as the Acting Central Vigilance Commissioner, effective from August 3, 2026. He succeeds Praveen Kumar Srivastava, whose tenure as Central Vigilance Commissioner concluded on August 2, 2026. Rajeev has extensive experience in banking operations and governance.
RBI Appoints Monisha Chakraborty as ED for Forex and Financial Markets
In August 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Monisha Chakraborty as an Executive Director (ED), effective from August 3, 2026. In her new role, she will oversee the Foreign Exchange Department (FED) and the Financial Markets Regulation Department (FMRD). Chakraborty brings over three decades of experience across various regulatory and operational functions at the RBI.
PM Modi Inaugurates Development Projects in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka on August 1, 2026, inaugurating and laying foundation stones for projects worth over Rs 17,900 crore in AP. These initiatives span aviation, semiconductors, renewable energy, and road infrastructure. In Karnataka, he inaugurated the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Youth Centre in Mysuru.
Cabinet Approves PM-KISAN Scheme Continuation for Five Years with Rs. 3.15 Lakh Crore
The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme for another five years, from 2026-27 to 2030-31, with a total budget outlay of Rs. 3.15 lakh crore. Launched in 2019, this Central Sector Scheme provides annual financial assistance of Rs. 6,000 in three equal installments to eligible farmer families.
Cabinet Approves Expanded Khelo India Scheme with Rs. 36,441 Crore for FY27-FY31
The Union Cabinet has approved an expanded Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) with a total outlay of Rs. 36,441 crore for FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31. This initiative aims to foster sports as a tool for youth development and nation-building, striving for India's emergence as a global sporting powerhouse.
Cabinet Approves 'Samudra Manthan' Scheme with Rs. 84,084 Crore for Offshore Exploration
The Union Cabinet has approved the 'Samudra Manthan' - National Offshore Exploration (NOE) scheme, allocating Rs. 84,084 crore until FY 2030-31. This Central Sector Scheme, under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, aims to significantly boost offshore oil and gas exploration, enhance India's energy security, and reduce reliance on energy imports.
Cabinet Approves PM-SSY for Floating Solar Projects with Rs. 5,070 Crore Outlay
The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana (PM-SSY) with a total outlay of Rs. 5,070 crore, under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. The scheme aims to develop 5,000 MW of floating solar capacity with co-located Energy Storage Systems (ESS) by FY 2030-31, enhancing renewable energy generation and grid reliability.
DFS Launches India's First Sovereign-Backed P&I Insurance under BMIP
The Department of Financial Services (DFS) launched India’s first sovereign-backed Protection & Indemnity (P&I) insurance product under the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP). This new product provides third-party liability coverage up to USD 1.5 billion, enhancing marine insurance capacity for Indian shipping against various maritime risks.
48th UNESCO WHC in South Korea Inscribes 25 New Sites, Including India's Sarnath
The 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee (WHC), held in Busan, South Korea, inscribed 25 new sites on its World Heritage List. This includes the Ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The session brought the total number of UNESCO World Heritage sites to 1,273 across 173 countries.
Ministry of AYUSH and IndiaAI Sign MoU for AI Innovation in Traditional Medicine
The Ministry of AYUSH and IndiaAI, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration aims to promote Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven innovation in the AYUSH sector, strengthening research, digital health, and capacity building for traditional medicine practices in India.
World FinTech Day 2026 Observed on August 1
World FinTech Day is observed annually on August 1st to raise awareness about the increasing importance of Financial Technology (FinTech) in modernizing financial services and expanding access to financial products globally. The day commemorates the death anniversary of Cosimo de’ Medici, an Italian banker recognized as the father of the modern banking system.
Varsha Ashok Aglawe Appointed First Woman Director General of GSI
Varsha Ashok Aglawe has been appointed as the 54th Director General (DG) of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), becoming the first woman to lead the 176-year-old organization. She took charge on July 31, 2026, and will focus on critical mineral exploration, mineral security, and strengthening geoscientific infrastructure.
India-Maldives Launch Favara-UPI Cross-Border Payment Corridor
The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has operationalized the integration of Favara, the Maldives’ Instant Payment System, with India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This new cross-border payment corridor enables real-time transfers between the Maldives and India, strengthening financial connectivity and supporting various remittance categories.
MoPR Launches DAANVEER Initiative for Village Digital Infrastructure
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) introduced the 'DAANVEER' initiative in July 2026 to enhance digital infrastructure in gram panchayats nationwide. This program encourages voluntary public participation to address the shortage of computers in village councils, allowing citizens and organizations to contribute via the 'Meri Panchayat' mobile application.
India Exports Bihar Makhana to Canada
India successfully exported 7 metric tonnes of value-added flavoured Makhana from Darbhanga, Bihar, to Canada on July 29, 2026. This consignment, processed by Nutrivin Agro Private Limited, marks an important step in promoting traditional Indian crops in the global healthy snack market. Bihar is the largest producer of Makhana in India.
Ladakh Declares 23 Heritage Sites as Protected Monuments
On July 30, 2026, the Ladakh administration declared 23 heritage sites across the Union Territory as Protected Monuments under the Jammu and Kashmir Ancient Monuments Preservation Act. This list includes petroglyph clusters, rock carvings, ancient caves, monasteries, forts, and palaces, aiming to preserve Ladakh's rich archaeological and cultural heritage.
India Launches Sovereign-Backed Maritime Liability Insurance Under BMIP
India introduced its first sovereign-backed Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance product on July 30, 2026, under the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP). The New India Assurance Company Limited issued the product to the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. The BMIP, operational since May 12, 2026, has a sovereign guarantee of ₹12,980 crore to reduce reliance on foreign insurers.
Indigenous Diving Support Vessel Nipun Delivered to Indian Navy
The Indigenous Diving Support Vessel (DSV) Nipun was delivered to the Indian Navy on July 30, 2026. Built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam, Nipun is the second vessel of its class, following INS Nistar. It will significantly enhance the Navy's deep-sea diving, underwater salvage, and submarine rescue capabilities.
ZSI Completes Catalogue of 13,703 Butterfly and Moth Species in India
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has completed the first comprehensive 'Catalogue of Lepidoptera (Butterflies and Moths) of India' on July 30, 2026. This monumental 12-year project lists 13,703 species from India, spanning 22 volumes. The catalogue provides a crucial baseline for biodiversity research and conservation efforts.
Sashastra Seema Bal Wins 11th All India Police Judo Cluster Championship
The 11th All India Police Judo Cluster Championship 2026 concluded in Hyderabad, Telangana, on July 30, 2026. Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) emerged as the overall champion, securing 24 gold, 20 silver, and 23 bronze medals for a total of 203 points. The event featured five disciplines: Judo, Wushu, Taekwondo, Karate, and Pencak Silat.
Sainik Welfare, Assam Contributes Rs 25 Lakh to CM’s Relief Fund
The Directorate of Sainik Welfare, Assam, contributed Rs 25 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund on July 29, 2026. This contribution is intended for flood relief and rehabilitation efforts for affected families in Upper Assam. The cheque was presented to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Lovepreet Singh Wins Silver in Commonwealth Games Weightlifting
Lovepreet Singh clinched a silver medal for India in the men’s +110kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow on July 30, 2026. He lifted a combined total of 388kg, setting a new Games record in the snatch with 176kg. India concluded its weightlifting campaign with eight medals.
India Sweeps Commonwealth Table Tennis Team Titles in New Delhi
India's men's and women's table tennis teams both secured gold medals at the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships on July 30, 2026, in New Delhi. The men's team defeated Malaysia 3-2, while the women's team triumphed over Malaysia 3-0 in their respective finals. India won USD 10,000 in prize money.
APEDA Facilitates First Air Shipment of Karnataka Mangoes to Maldives
APEDA successfully facilitated the inaugural air shipment of Neelam and Totapuri mango varieties from Karnataka to the Maldives on July 30, 2026. The one-metric-tonne consignment was flagged off by APEDA Chairman Shri Abhishek Dev. This initiative aims to expand India's seasonal export basket for mangoes.
India Becomes World's 2nd Largest Seafarer Supplier: BIMCO-ICS Report 2026
According to the BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026, India has emerged as the world's second-largest supplier of seafarers, with 311,936 professionals, accounting for 12.16% of the global workforce. This places India after the Philippines and ahead of China. This significant growth from 5th position in 2015 is attributed to maritime reforms under PM Narendra Modi.
FSID and C-DOT Establish Telecom CoE at IISc Bengaluru for Advanced Research
The Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID) and the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) signed an agreement with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. This collaboration aims to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for advanced telecom research, focusing on 5G, 6G, AI, cybersecurity, and quantum communication technologies. This will be C-DOT's 5th CoE in India.
CUK and Indian Navy Sign MoU for Academic and Research Collaboration
The Central University of Kerala (CUK) and the Indian Navy (IN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2026. This agreement aims to foster collaboration in maritime studies, defence research, innovation, and strategic knowledge development. The focus areas include maritime technologies, AI, cybersecurity, ocean sciences, and environmental sustainability.
Tripura Signs 3 MoUs with NSE to Boost Financial Literacy and Investment
The Government of Tripura signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) in July 2026. The aim is to enhance financial literacy, skill development, entrepreneurship, and investment awareness across the state. This partnership makes SIPARD, Tripura, one of the first government training institutions to collaborate with NSE for institutional capacity building.
MHA: Delhi Tops e-Zero FIRs in Cyber Financial Fraud in 2025
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reported over 12,000 e-Zero FIRs registered against cyber financial fraud in 18 states and UTs in 2025. Delhi recorded the highest number with 6,115 FIRs, followed by Chandigarh with 4,174. The e-Zero FIR system, launched in May 2025, allows victims to lodge complaints via the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or helpline 1930.
President Murmu Marks Four Years with New Initiatives at Rashtrapati Bhavan
President Droupadi Murmu launched several initiatives at Rashtrapati Bhavan in July 2026, marking the completion of her four years in office. These include an e-Audio Guide, e-Upahaar (3rd Edition), Bachpan 'Bal Parisar', RAAHI, and a Net Zero Energy Strategy service block. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan also released five commemorative books detailing her journey.
Satya Pal Kumar Appointed Director of Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND)
In July 2026, Satya Pal Kumar, a 2005-batch IRS officer, was appointed as the Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). He succeeds Pankaj Kumar Mishra and will serve a five-year tenure. This appointment aims to strengthen India's framework against money laundering, terror financing, and suspicious financial transactions.
New Polypore Fungus Species 'Microporellus kolhapurensis' Discovered in Maharashtra
Researchers in Maharashtra discovered a new polypore fungus species named 'Microporellus kolhapurensis' in Bhudargad taluka, Kolhapur district. This species, found growing on rotting wood, was named after the district to acknowledge its rich biodiversity. Its discovery, published in Nelumbo, enriches the documented fungal diversity of the Western Ghats and Maharashtra.
World Nature Conservation Day 2026 Observed on July 28
World Nature Conservation Day (WNCD) is celebrated annually on July 28 to raise awareness about the importance of protecting natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) designated this day following the 1972 UN Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, which also led to the establishment of UNEP. The day supports SDGs 13, 14, and 15.
Delhi Government Approves 'Delhi Lakshmi Yojana' for Women's Financial Aid
In July 2026, the Delhi cabinet approved the 'Delhi Lakshmi Yojana', a scheme providing Rs. 2,500 monthly financial assistance to eligible women. With a budget of Rs. 5,110 crore for 2026-27, the scheme targets women aged 21-60 with an annual family income up to Rs 2.5 lakh, who are permanent residents of Delhi for at least 10 years. The online registration portal launches on August 1, 2026.
ADB Approves USD 850 Million Loan for Rooftop Solar Rollout in India
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved an USD 850 million loan in July 2026 to support India's Prime Minister Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG-MBY). This funding, part of Subprogram 2, aims to accelerate rooftop solar adoption. The goal is to achieve 30 GW of cumulative rooftop solar capacity by FY27, reducing carbon emissions and expanding access to affordable solar energy.
CRPF Foundation Day 2026 – July 27
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Foundation Day, also known as CRPF Raising Day, is observed annually across India on July 27. The day commemorates the establishment of the CRPF in 1939 and honors its significant contributions to national security, disaster response, and nation-building. July 27, 2026, marked the 88th observance of this day.
NASA Plans AI-powered 'PRAXIS' Mission to Analyze Saturn Ring Particles
In July 2026, NASA researchers proposed an AI-powered mission concept called PRAXIS (Planetary Rings Autonomous EXploration with In-situ Sampling). This mission, under NIAC 2026 program, aims to achieve the first-ever direct collection and analysis of particles from Saturn’s rings. This will provide critical insights into the age, origin, and evolution of planetary ring systems.
Edelweiss Mutual Fund Launches India’s First REIT-Oriented Index Fund
In July 2026, Edelweiss Mutual Fund (MF) launched the Edelweiss Nifty REITs & Realty Index Fund, India’s first Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)-oriented open-ended passive index fund. This fund tracks the Nifty REITs & Realty Total Return Index (TRI) and offers low-cost, long-term capital appreciation by diversifying exposure to listed REITs and real estate companies.
Axis Finance Launches 'Drishti' Digital Platform for Lending
In July 2026, Axis Finance Limited (AFL) introduced 'Axis Finance Drishti,' an in-house Business Rules Engine (BRE) and configurable digital platform. This platform aims to enhance credit decision-making and risk management for retail and MSME lending. 'Drishti' will enable faster, data-driven, and scalable credit assessments, improving efficiency and customer experience.
GoI Approves RBI Field Trials of Rs 10 and Rs 20 Polymer Currency Notes
In July 2026, the Government of India (GoI) approved the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) proposal for field trials of one billion polymer banknotes each in Rs 10 and Rs 20 denominations. This initiative, worth Rs 3000 crore, aims to evaluate more durable currency notes under various climatic and usage conditions in India. Polymer notes are being tested as an additional option, not a replacement for existing paper notes.
MoT Signs MoU with Air India to Promote India as Global Tourism Destination
In July 2026, the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air India Limited in New Delhi. The partnership aims to promote India as a preferred global tourism and transit hub under the 'Incredible India' brand. This two-year MoU involves co-branded global marketing campaigns and joint promotional activities.
MoA&FW Permits Anhydrous Ammonia Fertilizer to Reduce Urea Imports
In July 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) allowed the manufacture and agricultural use of Anhydrous Ammonia fertilizer for three years. This aims to reduce India's dependence on imported urea by promoting an alternative nitrogen fertilizer with a minimum 82% nitrogen content. A Green Urea pilot plant is also being developed in Andhra Pradesh.
Piyush Goyal Announces Task Force for Toy Sector, Targets 5% Global Share
In July 2026, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced a Task Force to bolster India’s toy sector, aiming for a 5% share of the global toy market by 2032. This announcement was made during the 'Team Up for Toys' stakeholder meet in New Delhi. The Task Force will focus on integrating with global value chains, strengthening manufacturing, and promoting innovation.
India to Use Producer Price Index (PPI) for GDP Deflation
In July 2026, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) announced its plan to use the output Producer Price Index (PPI) as a deflator for quarterly and annual GDP estimates. This change replaces the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in relevant areas and aligns India's national accounts with international standards. The new methodology will be introduced with GDP estimates for April-June 2026-27.
MoPR Launches Atmanirbhar Panchayat Programme, SAMARTH Portal, Model OSR Rules
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the Atmanirbhar Panchayat Programme, SAMARTH Panchayat Portal, and Model Own Source of Revenue (OSR) Rules in New Delhi in July 2026. These initiatives by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj aim to boost financial autonomy, digital governance, and revenue generation for Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), aligning with Viksit Bharat @2047.
MoES Celebrates 20th Foundation Day, Launches New Science Initiatives
On July 27, 2026, the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) celebrated its 20th Foundation Day in New Delhi. The event marked two decades of contributions to weather forecasting, oceanography, and earth systems science. Several new initiatives were launched by IMD, NCMRWF, NCS, and CMLRE to advance weather, ocean, and seismological research.
Maharashtra First to Qualify for Second RKVY Installment
In July 2026, Maharashtra became the first Indian state to qualify for the second installment of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY). The state utilized nearly Rs 260 crore out of the first Rs 335 crore, surpassing the 75% utilization benchmark. This approval will lead to the release of another Rs 335 crore for the state.
VIYONA gets BBPS approval for digital bill payments
In July 2026, VIYONA Fintech, a Hyderabad-based startup, received approval from Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS), now known as Bharat Connect, to operate as a Customer Operating Unit (COU). This enables VIYONA to offer interoperable digital bill payment services across India, covering categories like electricity, water, gas, and mobile recharges.
Sarnath declared India's 45th UNESCO World Heritage Site
In July 2026, the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. This marks India's 45th World Heritage Site and the fourth for Uttar Pradesh, recognizing its outstanding universal value as a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage center.
President Murmu's visit to Moldova, North Macedonia, and Romania
President Droupadi Murmu conducted a week-long state visit to Moldova, North Macedonia, and Romania from July 19-25, 2026, aimed at bolstering bilateral relations. This historic tour included signing MoUs, unveiling a Mahatma Gandhi bust, and receiving an honorary doctorate, highlighting India's diplomatic engagement with these European nations.
PM Modi forms task force led by Nandan Nilekani for exam reforms
In July 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi constituted a six-member high-powered task force, led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, to recommend comprehensive reforms for India's examination system. This initiative follows nationwide protests and concerns over exam paper leaks, particularly the NEET-UG controversy.
NSE launches India's first domestic benchmark-based Natural Gas Futures
In July 2026, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) launched India's first exchange-traded energy derivative: 'Indian Natural Gas Futures', linked to a domestic benchmark. Trading commenced on July 27, 2026, offering a cash-settled contract benchmarked to the Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) Gujarat (Dahej) hub price, enhancing market efficiency.
Pralhad Joshi takes additional charge as Union Education Minister
In July 2026, Union Minister Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, who oversees Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy, was given the additional charge as India's 10th Union Minister of Education. This appointment followed the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan due to the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy.
Kargil Vijay Diwas 2026 observed on July 26
Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating India's victory in the 1999 Kargil War, is observed annually on July 26. The 27th observance in 2026 honors the Indian Armed Forces' bravery and sacrifices in Operation Vijay, which recaptured Indian territory infiltrated by Pakistani forces and militants.
International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystems 2026
The International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem is observed by UNESCO annually on July 26. The 11th observance in 2026 promotes awareness about the ecological, climatic, and socio-economic benefits of mangroves and commemorates Hayhow Daniel Nanoto, a Greenpeace activist who died advocating for mangrove restoration.
HP CM launches 'Mukhyamantri Machhuara Samman Nidhi Yojana'
In July 2026, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the 'Mukhyamantri Machhuara Samman Nidhi Yojana'. This scheme provides financial assistance of Rs. 3,500 to reservoir fishermen during the annual fishing ban, benefiting around 3,700 families across five major state reservoirs to ensure their social security.
Odisha signs MoUs with HCLTech, Sarvam AI for AI Data Centre
In July 2026, the Government of Odisha signed MoUs with HCL Technologies (HCLTech) and Sarvam AI to establish its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) data center at the Odisha Sovereign AI Park in Bhubaneswar. With an outlay of Rs. 14,257 crore, this initiative aims to create an AI-centric ecosystem and develop AI solutions for various sectors.
SpaceX Starship completes 13th test flight, deploys Starlink V3 satellites
In July 2026, SpaceX successfully completed the 13th integrated test flight of its Starship launch system from Starbase, Texas. This mission marked the first deployment of 20 next-generation Starlink Version 3 (V3) satellites and included a controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean, crucial for NASA's future Artemis lunar missions.
Anahat Singh first Indian to win World Junior Squash Championships title
Anahat Singh made history by becoming the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships women's singles title on July 25, 2026. The 18-year-old top seed defeated Egypt's second seed Ruqayya Salem in the final in Canada. She won the match 3-0, dropping only two sets throughout the entire tournament.
AI Holobox of Atal Bihari Vajpayee inaugurated at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya
An AI Holobox featuring former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was inaugurated on July 26, 2026, at the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya in New Delhi. This installation utilizes a hyper-realistic 3D avatar and interactive dialogue to present factual information about Vajpayee's life and legacy. Visitors can ask questions and receive historically researched responses.
Mirabai Chanu and Rishikanta Singh win medals at Commonwealth Games 2026
India's Mirabai Chanu secured a gold medal in the women's 48kg weightlifting category, and Rishikanta Singh won a silver medal in the men's 60kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland, on July 26, 2026. This marks Chanu's third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold and Singh's first silver, setting new Games records in their respective events.
INS Sudarshini departs Boston after participating in SAIL 250 expedition
Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sudarshini, a sail training ship, departed from Boston, USA, on July 26, 2026, heading for Ponta Delgada in the Azores, Portugal. This transit is part of its ongoing 10-month transoceanic Lokayan 26 expedition, which commenced from Kochi on January 20, 2026. The ship had participated in SAIL 250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
UNESCO adds Mount Olympus and D-Day Landing Beaches to World Heritage List
On July 26, 2026, UNESCO inscribed Mount Olympus in Greece and the D-Day Landing Beaches in northern France onto its World Heritage List during the 48th session in Busan, South Korea. Mount Olympus was recognized as a mixed cultural and natural heritage site for its biodiversity and mythological significance, while the D-Day beaches were added for their exceptional cultural landscape tied to World War II.
Kerala launches Digital Square education initiative for primary schools
Kerala initiated the 'Digital Square' education program on July 26, 2026, as part of its 100-day action plan for the education sector. Implemented by KITE for lower and upper primary government schools, this initiative aims to strengthen technology-based learning using Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) tools. It also includes an edutainment package and accessibility features for disabled students.
Nandan Nilekani to chair high-powered task force on exam reforms
India has formed a high-powered task force to review the National Testing Agency (NTA) examination system and propose reforms for reliability, transparency, and technology integration. Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys and founding chairman of UIDAI, will chair this multidisciplinary committee. The task force aims to address concerns regarding examination irregularities, including recent paper leak cases.
India Hosts 16th BRICS Health Ministers' Meeting, Adopts Declaration
India chaired the 16th BRICS Health Ministers' Meeting in Chandigarh in July 2026, focusing on strengthening health systems, innovation, pandemic preparedness, and Universal Health Coverage. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the 'Health Ministerial Declaration'. Union Minister J.P. Nadda virtually addressed the event.
NCVET recognizes NIRDPR as Dual Awarding Body for skill certification
In July 2026, the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) recognized the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) as a Dual Awarding Body. This allows NIRDPR to assess, certify, and award NSQF-aligned qualifications, strengthening rural skilling. The initial rollout includes qualifications for Industrial General Pest Management Technician and Micro-Credential on Own Source Revenue by Panchayats.
Microsoft India and IIT Delhi launch 'UNNATI AI 2.0' for AI innovation
In July 2026, Microsoft India and IIT Delhi's FITT launched 'UNNATI AI 2.0', the second phase of their CSR initiative. This program aims to strengthen India's Artificial Intelligence (AI) talent pipeline by democratizing AI access, fostering startups, and nurturing talent in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. It focuses on expanding AI skills and facilitating startup enablement and mentorship.
NABARD and MAHAPREIT sign MoU for green infrastructure in rural India
In July 2026, NABARD signed an MoU with Mahatma Phule Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Technology Limited (MAHAPREIT), a Maharashtra government enterprise. This partnership aims to jointly finance and promote green, climate-resilient, and sustainable infrastructure projects across rural India, with an initial focus on Maharashtra. Priority areas include green energy, decarbonization of government buildings, and rural public institutions.
UN SOFI report: Global hunger slightly declines but 2030 goal remains off track
In July 2026, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released its SOFI 2026 report, indicating that 645 million people (7.8% of global population) faced hunger in 2025, a slight decline from the previous year. Despite this, the world remains significantly off track to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-2) of zero hunger by 2030. For the first time, Africa has surpassed Asia as the region with the largest number of undernourished people.
EbixCash becomes India’s 1st AD-II to get RBI approval for trade remittances
In July 2026, EbixCash World Money Limited became India's first Authorised Dealer Category-II (AD-II) entity to receive Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approval for trade remittances and family maintenance remittances. This expanded license allows EbixCash to facilitate trade remittances up to Rs 25 lakh per transaction and directly serve MSMEs. EbixCash also received RBI authorization to maintain Nostro accounts for direct international transaction settlements.
EnKash launches India’s first meal card with UPI payments
In July 2026, EnKash, a leading business payments and spend management platform, became the first company in India to launch a meal card with Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-based payments. This innovation allows employees to use their meal balance by scanning eligible UPI QR codes at food and grocery merchants, offering significant tax savings under both old and revised tax regimes.
Centre appoints senior IAS officer Anurag Jain as NITI Aayog CEO
In July 2026, the Government of India appointed senior IAS officer Anurag Jain as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog. Approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), he succeeds Nidhi Chhibber, who held additional charge. Jain, a 1989-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, assumes charge immediately for a two-year tenure, or until further orders.
RBI approves Areion Group's Rs. 936 crore acquisition of Aviom India Housing Finance
In July 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved Areion Group’s Rs. 936 crore acquisition of Aviom India Housing Finance. This approval marks a crucial step in the insolvency resolution process of Aviom, a fraud-hit housing finance company. Areion Group's resolution plan was favored by lenders for its execution certainty, despite a higher bid from another entity.
PCI and CPSFI sign MoU to bid for 2029 World Abilitysport Games
On July 22, 2026, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India (CPSFI) signed an MoU to jointly bid for the 2029 World Abilitysport Games. This partnership aims to bring the international multi-sport event for athletes with disabilities to India, strengthening its role in the global Paralympic movement. Chennai and Bhubaneswar are being considered as potential host cities.
Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi visited India to strengthen ties
Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi visited India from July 17-20, 2026. During his visit, he held discussions with Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar, focusing on trade, investment, and capacity building. A significant highlight was the unveiling of the master plan for the 200-acre IIT Madras Zanzibar campus, India's first international IIT campus.
DRDO signs contracts for AEW&C Mk-II program, enhancing airborne surveillance
On July 22, 2026, DRDO signed two industry contracts for the Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) Mk-II Programme. These contracts with AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) and Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL) aim to boost India's indigenous airborne surveillance capabilities. The program, approved by CCS, uses converted Airbus A321 aircraft for mission systems development.
MoC unveils 'AAROH' report on scientific mine closure and ecological restoration
In July 2026, the Ministry of Coal (MoC) released 'AAROH: Annual Report on Mine Closure', India's first comprehensive documentation of scientific mine closure and post-mining land utilization. Prepared by the Coal Controller Organisation (CCO), the report highlights the transformation of 42 scientifically closed coal mines. The event also saw the virtual inauguration of Coal NEER Plants by Coal India Limited subsidiaries.
Andhra Pradesh Launches Mee Bhoomi Blockchain Pilot
Andhra Pradesh launched the 'Mee Bhoomi–Blockchain pilot project' on July 23, 2026, for digital land record management. Utilizing blockchain technology, the project aims to create a tamper-proof platform integrating land records from revenue, survey, and registration departments. Initially covering seven mandals, it offers eight citizen services, including auto-mutation, and ensures secure, authenticated land information for various departments and financial institutions.
Chhattisgarh Reserves 10% Jobs for Agniveers
Chhattisgarh approved a 10% reservation for Agniveers in direct recruitment to selected Class-III state government posts on July 22, 2026. This decision, under the 'Chhattisgarh Reservation of Vacancies in Class-III Civil Services for Agniveer Soldiers Rules, 2026', applies to roles like police constables, forest guards, and jail warders. Only Agniveers from Chhattisgarh with four years of service are eligible.
IIT Madras to Host Digital India RISC-V Symposium 2026
IIT Madras will host the 3rd Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Symposium 2026 on August 1-2, 2026, in Chennai. Organized with MeitY and RISC-V International, the event focuses on "Empowering Bharat’s Semiconductor Future" and India's indigenous processor technologies. It will gather experts, policymakers, and startups, and include a hackathon to foster innovation in RISC-V based secure computing and AI systems.
Killai Becomes Tamil Nadu’s First Climate-Resilient Village
Killai in Cuddalore district became Tamil Nadu’s first fully operational Climate Resilient Village on July 22, 2026. This project, implemented under the Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission, focused on ecosystem restoration, renewable energy, and community-led climate action. It involved restoring a 3-km stretch of the Buckingham Canal and is part of a larger state program addressing climate risks in coastal settlements.
Jharkhand Signs MoU with SRFTI for First Film Institute
Jharkhand Film Development Corporation Limited signed an MoU with Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) on July 22, 2026, to establish the Jharkhand Film and Television Institute in Ranchi. This will be the state's first dedicated film and TV training center. SRFTI will provide academic and technical support, with initial short-duration certificate courses planned, and undergraduate programs proposed for a later phase.
BRICS Network University Expands Thematic Cooperation
India hosted the International Governing Board meeting of the BRICS Network University (BRICS NU) virtually on July 21, 2026, during its BRICS Presidency. The meeting reviewed the action plan and discussed stronger institutional cooperation. India proposed 'Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems' as a new thematic group, which received broad support. BRICS NU, a multilateral university network, has expanded its membership and thematic areas significantly.
Rajasthan Launches Mukhyamantri Yuva Suyog Platform
Rajasthan launched the 'Mukhyamantri Yuva Suyog' platform in July 2026, aimed at engaging youth in sports, skill development, employment, and community activities. Operating through a registration-based portal, it will facilitate team sports competitions and establish district-level Yuva Suyog Clubs. The platform will be integrated with the Central Government’s MY Bharat programme to enhance youth participation.
Let’s Fix Our Food Consortium Releases Nutrition Policy for Children
The ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition-led 'Let’s Fix Our Food Consortium' released a policy document on July 22, 2026, in New Delhi. Titled 'Priority Policy Actions to Promote Healthier Diets and Food Environments for Children and Adolescents in India', it offers evidence-based recommendations to tackle diet-related non-communicable diseases among young people. The consortium also launched related digital tools and educational resources.
HAL and Safran Sign LEAP Engine Components Agreement
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Aircraft Engines signed an agreement on July 22, 2026, for HAL to produce turbine ring forgings for the CFM LEAP engine program. HAL will manufacture these superalloy components at its Bengaluru facility. This expands HAL's role in the civil aerospace market and enhances India's aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
Indian Railways Becomes World’s Second-Most Electrified Network
As of July 22, 2026, Indian Railways achieved 99.6% electrification of its broad gauge network, making it the world's second-most electrified large railway system, only behind Switzerland. This significant milestone follows a sharp increase in electrification pace after 2014, reducing diesel consumption and boosting renewable energy integration. The data was presented by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Lok Sabha.
MHI Data: Maharashtra Leads PLI-Auto Scheme with 66 Manufacturing Units
In July 2026, Ministry of Heavy Industries data revealed Maharashtra tops states with 66 manufacturing units under the PLI scheme for automobile and auto components, as of March 31, 2026. Tamil Nadu follows with 38 units, then Haryana and Karnataka with 35 each. Nationwide, 225 units have been established under this Rs 25,938 crore scheme approved in September 2021.
Union Minister Scindia Launches Mission Golden Spice for Meghalaya's Lakadong Turmeric
In July 2026, Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, along with Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma, launched "Mission Golden Spice" in New Delhi. This Rs 175.45-crore, five-year project (2025–2030) aims to globally promote Meghalaya's GI-tagged Lakadong turmeric. The initiative seeks to transform it into a competitive premium spice.
World Brain Day 2026 Observed Annually on July 22 with Theme "Brain Health: Access for All"
World Brain Day (WBD) is observed annually on July 22 to raise global awareness about brain health and neurological disorders. The 2026 theme is "Brain Health: Access for All." The World Federation of Neurology (WFN) initiated this day in 2014, commemorating its establishment on July 22, 1957. WFN collaborates with WHO and UN ECOSOC for its observance.
Pi Approximation Day 2026 Observed Annually on July 22
Pi Approximation Day, also known as Casual Pi Day, is celebrated annually on July 22. This day honors the mathematical constant Pi (π), approximately 3.14159, and emphasizes its importance in mathematics and science. The date 22/7 represents the fraction 22/7, a commonly used approximation for Pi (approximately 3.142857).
ARI Discovers Five New Allographa Lichen Species in Western Ghats, Kerala
In July 2026, researchers from Pune's Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) discovered five new Allographa lichen-forming fungi species in the Western Ghats, Kerala. These new species significantly expand India's documented lichen diversity and were identified using integrated morphological and molecular research. The findings were published in 'Mycological Progress,' highlighting the biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Paninian India Launches India's First Private-Sector Turbofan Engine Programme
In July 2026, Hyderabad-based deep-tech aerospace startup Paninian India Private Limited launched the 'Yantur 4.5 kilo-Newton (kN) Turbofan engine' programme. This initiative marks India's first privately developed turbofan engine in its class. The Yantur engine is designed to power Paninian's 'Svayatt L1' long-range autonomous cruise missile platform, aligning with MoD's 'Make-I' programme requirements.
Indian Navy Commissions INS Malvan Warship to Boost Anti-Submarine Capabilities
In July 2026, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Malvan (Yard 524), the second of eight Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at Naval Base Karwar, Karnataka. Presided over by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, this marks the first time an Indian naval vessel has been commissioned at Karwar, and it's the 7th warship inducted by the Navy in 2026.
Eight-Year-Old Iya Krish Youngest Asian to Summit Mount Toubkal, North Africa's Highest Peak
In July 2026, eight-year-old Iya Krish from Thrissur, Kerala, became the youngest Asian to summit Mount Toubkal (4,167 m), North Africa's highest peak in Morocco. Her three-day expedition covered approximately 42 kilometers. Iya, who lives in UAE, prepared with regular trekking and Kalaripayattu training. Her future goals include Mount Elbrus, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Mount Everest.
India's Outward FDI Drops 47.9% to USD 3 Billion in June 2026: RBI Data
According to provisional RBI data released in July 2026, India's outward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) plummeted by 47.9% year-on-year to USD 3 billion in June 2026. This is a significant drop from USD 5.74 billion in June 2025 and USD 4.5 billion in May 2026. All components—equity, debt, and guarantees—witnessed a decline.
IIPA and ICAI Sign MoU to Strengthen Municipal Financial Governance
In July 2026, the Centre for Urban Studies (CUS), Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) signed an MoU. This collaboration aims to strengthen municipal accounting systems and improve financial management. It will achieve this through joint research, training, and institutional capacity building, valid for three years.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Launches Pilot Phase of 'Gems of India' Challenge
On July 21, 2026, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the 'Gems of India' Challenge's pilot phase. This national initiative aims to identify, nurture, and promote grassroots digital creators within the emerging Orange Economy. Hosted on the MyWAVES platform, creators will showcase their district's culture, heritage, and achievements through digital storytelling, starting August 1.
ISRO's VSSC and CSIR-IICT Partner for Eco-Friendly Blowing Agent Technology
In July 2026, ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) signed an MoU. Their collaboration aims to develop indigenous, environmentally sustainable blowing agent technology for advanced space applications. This partnership will reduce India's reliance on imported fluorochemicals and enhance capabilities in strategic materials research.
Senegal’s President Bassirou Faye Elected As New Chairman Of ECOWAS
In July 2026, Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, President of Senegal, was elected as the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) during its 69th Ordinary Session in Freetown, Sierra Leone. He will serve a one-year term, succeeding President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, and will focus on revitalizing regional cooperation.
India Becomes 123rd Member of WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement
On July 20, 2026, India officially joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies (AFS), becoming its 123rd member. The Instrument of Acceptance was deposited by Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary, Department of Commerce. This agreement, which came into force on September 15, 2025, aims to promote sustainable fisheries globally.
Union Minister Amit Shah Inaugurates India's First Immersive Language Museum 'Shabdalok' in Kolkata
In July 2026, Union Minister Amit Shah inaugurated 'Shabdalok' (The Museum of Word) in Kolkata, West Bengal. Developed at a cost of Rs 41 crore within the National Library campus, it is India's first immersive language museum. The museum showcases the diversity of nearly 380 Indian languages and scripts using advanced interactive technologies.
India Approves First Dengue Vaccine 'QDENGA' After DCGI Clearance
In July 2026, India approved its first dengue vaccine, QDENGA (TAK-003), following market authorization granted by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to Takeda Biopharmaceuticals India Private Limited. The vaccine is approved for individuals aged 4 to 60 years and provides protection against all four dengue virus serotypes.
USA Delivers 21st MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter to Indian Navy
In July 2026, the United States delivered the 21st MH-60R Seahawk multi-role maritime helicopter to the Indian Navy in Kochi, Kerala. This delivery, part of a 2020 Foreign Military Sales agreement for 24 helicopters, strengthens India-USA defence ties and enhances India’s maritime security capabilities, particularly in anti-submarine warfare.
IAF Participates in 45th Edition of Exercise 'Pitch Black 2026' in Australia
In July 2026, the Indian Air Force (IAF) participated in the 45th edition of Exercise Pitch Black, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) at RAAF Base Darwin. This biennial multinational air combat exercise, held from July 20 to August 7, 2026, brings together air forces from 20 nations, enhancing interoperability and combat readiness.
DoLR & RBI Innovation Hub Explore Digital Land-Credit Infrastructure for Rural Lending
In July 2026, the Department of Land Resources (DoLR) and the Reserve Bank of India Innovation Hub (RBIH) held a meeting to explore integrating digital public infrastructure for land governance with digital lending. The aim is to create a secure, interoperable land-credit ecosystem, enhancing institutional credit access for farmers and rural citizens through platforms like the Unified Lending Interface (ULI).
NSA Ajit Doval Selected for Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026
In July 2026, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was selected for the Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 by the Lokmanya Tilak Trust. He will receive the award on August 1, 2026, in Pune, Maharashtra, in recognition of his significant contributions to strengthening India's national security, counter-terrorism efforts, and border security.
Andy Burnham Takes Charge as UK’s New Prime Minister
In July 2026, Andy Burnham became the 59th Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, succeeding Keir Starmer. He was invited by King Charles III to form a new government after securing approximately 55% of the vote in the leadership election. Burnham previously served as the first Mayor of Greater Manchester.
NASA Webb Telescope Discovered New Exoplanet ‘Beta Pictoris d’
In July 2026, astronomers using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) discovered a new giant exoplanet, 'Beta Pictoris d'. Located 63 light-years from Earth and approximately 23 million years old, this is only the second planetary system known with at least three directly imaged planets, adding to Beta Pictoris b and c.
International Moon Day 2026 Observed on July 20
International Moon Day (IMD) was observed on July 20, 2026, marking the 57th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969. The day promotes space exploration, scientific learning, and the peaceful and sustainable use of lunar resources. The UN General Assembly officially proclaimed July 20 as International Moon Day in December 2021.
MoR Appoints Rahul Himalian as Additional CMD of IRCTC
The Ministry of Railways (MoR) appointed Rahul Himalian, Director (Tourism & Marketing) of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC), as the additional Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of IRCTC. His appointment is effective from July 20, 2026, succeeding Sanjay Kumar Jain. Himalian, a 1999-batch IRTS officer, will continue his Director role alongside the new CMD position.
Ladakh's L-G VK Saxena Commissions India’s First Two Geothermal Wells in Puga Valley
Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena commissioned India's first two 1,000-meter geothermal wells in Ladakh's Puga Valley. Executed by ONGC Energy Centre, these wells are crucial for a 1 Megawatt (MW) Pilot Geothermal Power Plant. Located over 14,000 feet above sea level, this project will be India’s first demonstration-scale geothermal power initiative.
MoHUA Approves Six Ahmedabad Urban Development Projects Worth Rs 2,719.80 Crore under UCF
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) sanctioned six urban development projects for Ahmedabad, Gujarat, totaling Rs 2,719.80 crore. These projects, approved under the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), focus on sewerage network rehabilitation, intelligent water management, sludge management, and intelligent traffic systems. Funding will be shared between Central, State, and municipal bonds/PPP.
EPFO Launches VISHWAS, 2026 for Penalty Dispute Settlement
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) introduced 'VISHWAS 2026', a one-time dispute resolution scheme. Operational for six months from notification, it aims to amicably settle penalty and damages disputes under the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, and the Code on Social Security, 2020. VISHWAS Cells have been established for its smooth implementation.
NITI Aayog Launches Roadmap for India's Bioeconomy to Reach USD 691 Billion by 2035
NITI Aayog unveiled a 10-year roadmap titled "Roadmap for Building India as a Leading Bioeconomy Powerhouse by 2035". It aims to boost India's bioeconomy to USD 691 billion by 2035 and USD 2.6 trillion by 2047, creating over 30 million high-value jobs. The plan includes six National BioMissions and a proposed Rs 50,000 crore BioEconomy Growth Fund.
CGPDTM Signs MoU with CSIR-NIScPR to Join National Knowledge Resource Consortium
The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM) signed an MoU with CSIR-NIScPR to join the National Knowledge Resource Consortium (NKRC). This partnership grants CGPDTM access to NKRC's digital knowledge platform, which includes international scientific journals, e-books, and databases. The aim is to enhance research, innovation, and intellectual property administration in India.
NIELIT to Establish Two CoEs for Semiconductor Skilling in Ahmedabad and Guwahati
The National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology (NIELIT) announced the establishment of two Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in Ahmedabad and Guwahati. These CoEs will focus on specialized skill development in Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) and Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) technologies, supporting the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0.
72nd National Film Awards (2024): 'Article 370' Named Best Feature Film
The 72nd National Film Awards for 2024 honored 'Article 370' as the Best Feature Film. Yami Gautam won Best Actress for 'Article 370', while Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan jointly received Best Actor for 'Bramayugam' and 'Chandu Champion' respectively. Rajkumar Periyasamy won Best Direction for 'Amaran', and 'Kalki 2898 AD' was named Best Popular Film.
New Damselfly Species 'Lestes paloti' Discovered in Kerala’s Western Ghats
A new species of spreadwing damselfly, 'Lestes paloti', has been discovered in the Western Ghats of Kerala by a team of Indian odonatologists. Named in honor of Dr. Muhamed Jafer Palot, this species prefers scrub vegetation away from open water. Its discovery, published in the International Journal of Odonatology, resolves a long-standing misidentification and increases Kerala's odonate species count to 192.
PV Sindhu Wins Women’s Singles at Japan Open 2026; Christo Popov Claims Men’s Title
India's PV Sindhu secured her first Japan Open women's singles title at the Daihatsu Japan Open 2026, defeating Akane Yamaguchi in the final. France's Christo Popov won the men's singles title by beating Koki Watanabe. This Badminton World Federation (BWF) Super 750 tournament was held from July 14 to 19, 2026, in Tokyo, Japan.
Spain Wins Second FIFA World Cup Title, Defeating Argentina 1-0 in 2026 Final
Spain secured its second FIFA World Cup title by defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the 2026 final. The match was held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, USA. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute. This expanded 23rd edition of the men's World Cup featured 48 teams and was co-hosted by USA, Mexico, and Canada.
RBI’s Financial Inclusion Index Rises to 70 in FY26; Issues Prudential Norms on SNFA
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported a rise in its Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index) to 70 in March 2026, up from 67 in March 2025. Concurrently, RBI issued new 'Prudential Norms on Specified Non Financial Asset (SNFA) acquired by Regulated Entities', effective October 1, 2026, to tighten regulations on distressed loan resolutions, prohibiting sale of SNFA back to defaulting borrowers.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Launches White Rabbit Technology-Based IST Network
In July 2026, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated the White Rabbit Technology-based Indian Standard Time (IST) Distribution Demonstration Network in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This initiative, part of the 'One Nation, One Time' vision, aims to establish a uniform, highly precise, secure, and indigenous IST network. It reduces reliance on foreign GPS-based time sources, benefiting critical sectors like banking, telecom, and defense with sub-nanosecond accuracy over fiber-optic networks.
PM Modi Inaugurates Development Projects and India's First Hydrogen Train
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Haryana, Chandigarh, and Punjab on July 17, 2026, inaugurating and laying foundation stones for projects worth over Rs 26,800 crore. Key highlights included flagging off India's first hydrogen-powered train between Jind and Sonipat, Haryana, and dedicating national highway and medical infrastructure projects. He also launched railway and road infrastructure projects in Punjab and Chandigarh.
NITI Aayog's IFI 2026: Gujarat Tops Investment Friendliness Index
NITI Aayog released its 'Investment Friendliness Index (IFI 2026)' in July 2026, assessing states' ability to attract investments. Gujarat topped both large states and overall rankings with a score of 56.6, followed by Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. The index classifies states into top performers, frontrunners, and emerging categories, highlighting their contribution to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows.
Cabinet Approves NIPU-2026, Railway Multitracking, and Elevated Corridor Projects
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the National Investment Policy for Urea-2026 (NIPU-2026) to boost domestic gas-based urea production by 1 crore Metric Tonnes. Additionally, two railway multitracking projects in Odisha and Jharkhand worth Rs 3,907 crore were sanctioned. Significant elevated highway projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, with an investment of over Rs 25,000 crore, were also approved to alleviate traffic congestion.
MoHUA Approves PARIVARTAN Scheme for Vehicle Replacement in NCR
Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar (MoHUA) approved operational guidelines for the PARIVARTAN Scheme on July 16, 2026. This scheme aims to replace old, polluting trucks and buses in the National Capital Region (NCR) with Bharat Stage (BS)-VI compliant or Electric Vehicles (EVs). With an outlay of Rs. 9,585 crore, it offers incentives like tax concessions, interest subvention, and OEM discounts to promote cleaner mobility and air quality.
Chhattisgarh Becomes First State to Introduce Risk-Based Business Approval System
On July 16, 2026, the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly passed the Chhattisgarh Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, making it India's first state to implement a comprehensive risk-based and trust-based business approval framework. This system simplifies regulatory approvals, benefits over 15 lakh MSMEs, and ensures transparent, time-bound processes, including deemed (auto) approvals for applications not processed within timelines. The Act covers 43 services across 8 departments.
Skyroot Aerospace Launches India’s First Private Orbital Rocket 'Vikram-1'
Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace successfully launched Vikram-1, India's first privately developed orbital-class launch vehicle, under 'Mission Aagaman' from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR). This achievement makes India the third country, after the USA and China, to attain private orbital launch capability, adhering to the Indian Space Policy 2023. Vikram-1 successfully injected payloads into a 450-kilometer Low Earth Orbit.
Reliance Jio Gets IN-SPACe Approval for 1,600-Satellite LEO Network
Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited received technical approval from IN-SPACe to deploy a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation of around 1,600 satellites. This landmark approval, given in consultation with ISRO and WPC, paves the way for India's first home-grown satellite broadband constellation. Jio plans to provide Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) and Mobile Satellite Services (MSS), including Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity, with 20-22 Indian ground stations.
Gujarat Wins Agriculture Leadership Award 2026 for Horticulture
Gujarat received the Agriculture Leadership Award 2026 for its outstanding performance in horticulture at the 17th Agriculture Leadership Conclave-2026 in New Delhi. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presented the award to Gujarat's Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani. The award, introduced in 2008 on M. S. Swaminathan's recommendation, recognizes innovations and performance in the agriculture sector. Gujarat has a history of agricultural excellence, having won similar awards in previous years.
West Indies Cricket Legend Sir Garfield Sobers Passes Away at 89
Sir Garfield Sobers, the legendary West Indies cricketer and one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, passed away on July 17, 2026, in Saint Michael, Barbados, at the age of 89. Known for his exceptional left-handed batting, versatile left-arm bowling, and outstanding fielding, Sobers played 93 Tests for the West Indies, scoring over 8,000 runs and taking 235 wickets. He was knighted in 1975 and inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2009.
Day of International Criminal Justice 2026 – July 17
The Day of International Criminal Justice, also known as International Justice Day, is observed annually on July 17. This day commemorates the adoption of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 1998, which established the ICC. It aims to promote accountability for grave crimes like genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression. The Rome Statute came into force on July 1, 2002.
Nelson Mandela International Day 2026 – July 18
The United Nations observes Nelson Mandela International Day, or Mandela Day, annually on July 18. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and South Africa's first democratically elected Black President. The UN General Assembly proclaimed July 18 as Mandela Day in 2009, recognizing his contributions to democracy, social justice, poverty eradication, and peace.
MoPSW Approves Greenfield Shipbuilding Cluster in Porbandar & Ship Repair Facility at Vadinar
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has granted in-principle approval for a Greenfield Shipbuilding Cluster in Porbandar district and a Ship Repair Facility at Vadinar, Gujarat. These projects, under the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS), aim to enhance India’s indigenous shipbuilding and repair capabilities aligned with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
Policybazaar Appoints Amitabh Bachchan as Brand Ambassador for Insurance Awareness
Policybazaar, India’s online insurance marketplace, has appointed veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan as its Brand Ambassador. He will lead the nationwide 'Parivaar Sabse Pehle' (Family Comes First) campaign, aimed at increasing awareness of health and term insurance. This initiative supports IRDAI’s Vision 2047 to expand insurance coverage across India.
Mindaugas Sinkevicius Sworn in as Lithuania’s New Prime Minister
Mindaugas Sinkevicius, leader of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), was sworn in as the 20th Prime Minister of Lithuania. This follows the Lithuanian Parliament's (Seimas) approval of his party’s government Manifesto. He succeeds Inga Ruginienė and has formed a centre-left three-party coalition.
Social Activist Dr. Nandini Azad Receives Bharat Samman 2026 for Women’s Empowerment
Dr. Nandini Azad, President of the Working Women’s Forum (India) (WWF-I) and the Indian Cooperative Network for Women (ICNW), was awarded the Bharat Samman 2026. This recognition is for her significant contributions to women’s empowerment, financial inclusion, and grassroots social development throughout her career. The award was presented in Dehradun by the International Institute of Education and Management (IIEM).
DIBD and PNB Sign MoU to Advance Multilingual AI for Inclusive Banking
The Digital India BHASHINI (BHASha INterface for India) Division (DIBD) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) signed an MoU. This collaboration aims to integrate multilingual Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions into PNB's digital banking platform using BHASHINI for Seva/Sanchalan. It seeks to promote inclusive banking by allowing customers to access services in their preferred Indian languages.
India's First AI-Integrated Vertical University Campus Inaugurated in Chennai, TN
Padma Shri Sridhar Vembu inaugurated VELS Institute of Science, Technology, & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)'s Thiruvanmiyur campus in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This is regarded as India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-integrated vertical university campus. It features Industry-Academia Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in partnership with Intel Unnati, TCS iON, Microsoft, and Oracle Academy.
Union MoS Arjun Ram Meghwal Launches 'e-VSP Portal' for Digital Legal Publications
Union Minister of State (IC) Arjun Ram Meghwal, Ministry of Law and Justice, launched the electronic – Vidhi Sahitya Prakashan (e-VSP) portal. This digital platform provides easy access to legal books, publications, and educational resources. Developed in collaboration with NIC and the Official Languages Wing, it promotes the use of Hindi in legal matters and is hosted at www.vsp.gov.in.
President Murmu Inaugurates 'Saushrutam 2026' at AIIA in New Delhi
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated 'Saushrutam 2026', a three-day international seminar on Ayurvedic surgery, at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi. The event, coinciding with Sushruta Jayanti, brought together experts from nine countries to discuss advancements in Ayurvedic surgery and integrative healthcare. An AI-enabled 3 Tesla High Field MRI was also launched.
India Hosts 12th BRICS Labour & Employment Ministers’ Meeting in Hyderabad
India hosted the 12th BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting in Hyderabad, Telangana, under its BRICS Chairship 2026. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers’ Declaration and the launch of BRICS CONNECT, an Indian initiative for technical cooperation and capacity building among BRICS nations.
India Launches Rs 1,500 Crore Biomedical Research Career Programme (BRCP) Phase-III
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched Phase-III of the Biomedical Research Career Programme (BRCP) with a total outlay of Rs. 1,500 crore. This includes Rs. 1,000 crore from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Rs. 500 crore from Wellcome Trust, UK. The program aims to develop a globally competitive biomedical research workforce.
PLFS June 2026 Bulletin: India's Unemployment Rate Remains Unchanged at 5.5%
The National Statistical Office (NSO) under MoSPI released the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Monthly Bulletin for June 2026. The report indicates that India's overall Unemployment Rate (UR) for individuals aged 15 years and above remained constant at 5.5%. Rural UR slightly decreased to 5.0%, while urban UR saw a marginal increase to 6.6%.
UN releases first scientific report on AI, urges stronger global governance
In July 2026, the UN released the Preliminary Report of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI), its first scientific assessment of AI. The report warns that AI development is outpacing global governance and calls for stronger regulatory frameworks. It highlights the concentration of AI capabilities in a few countries, led by the USA and China.
Union Cabinet approves Semicon 2.0 with ₹1.27 Lakh Crore to boost semiconductor ecosystem
In July 2026, the Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved the Semicon 2.0 program with an outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore. This initiative aims to develop India’s semiconductor design and manufacturing ecosystem, building on Semicon 1.0. It seeks to position India as a global hub for semiconductor innovation.
Union Cabinet approves 'Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme' with ₹62,500 Crore Outlay
On July 15, 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the 'Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS)' with a budgetary outlay of ₹62,500 crore. Implemented by MeitY, this scheme, part of the 'Make in India' initiative, aims to boost domestic mobile phone production, increase value addition, and enhance India’s global competitiveness. It succeeds the PLI-LSEM scheme and will run for five years.
MoSPI releases India’s first trial Index of Services Production (ISP)
In July 2026, the National Statistics Office (NSO), MoSPI, launched the first trial Sub-sectoral 'Index of Services Production (ISP)'. This is India’s inaugural official monthly indicator for the services sector output, designed to complement the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). It aims to track short-term changes in the formal services sector, which contributes over 50% to India's GDP.
India launches campaign for UNSC non-permanent seat for 2028-29 term
In July 2026, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar launched India’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028-29 term. The campaign, themed 'SHANTI: Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust and Integrity,' emphasizes India's commitment to global peace, security, and reformed multilateralism. Elections for this seat are scheduled for June 2027.
MoFPI and NIFTEM Thanjavur launch 'Short-Term Skill Training Programme' at ITC-Trichy
In July 2026, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), in collaboration with NIFTEM, Thanjavur, launched a pilot 'Short-Term Skill Training Programme (STSTP)'. The program, focused on Assistant Baking Technician (NSQF Level 3), was inaugurated at ITC-ICML facility in Trichy, TN. It aims to upskill youth in food processing, enhancing employability and promoting entrepreneurship.
Delhivery Financial Services receives RBI nod for Type II NBFC licence
In July 2026, Delhivery Financial Services Private Limited, a subsidiary of logistics firm Delhivery Limited, received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This Certificate of Registration (CoR) designates it as a Type-II Non-Banking Financial Company-Non-Deposit Taking (NBFC-ND). This approval allows the company to expand its financial services offerings within its logistics ecosystem.
Brand Finance India 100 Report 2026: Adani Group fastest to enter Top 10
In July 2026, Brand Finance released its 'India 100 Report 2026'. The Adani Group ranked 8th, becoming the fastest company to enter India’s 'Top 10 Most Valuable Brands'. Tata Group retained its position as India’s most valuable brand for the tenth consecutive year, with Infosys and LIC Group following. The total valuation of India's top 100 brands increased by 7%.
Ukraine’s Parliament appoints Serhii Koretskyi as Prime Minister
On July 16, 2026, Ukraine’s Parliament (Verkhovna Rada) approved the appointment of Serhii Koretskyi as the country’s Prime Minister, succeeding Yulia Svyrydenko. Koretskyi, previously CEO of Naftogaz, secured 289 votes in the 450-member Parliament. He was nominated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to strengthen governance and energy security during the ongoing war, despite his lack of prior political experience.
HEX20 launches second satellite KOYO aboard SpaceX Transporter-17 mission
In July 2026, Kerala-based private spacetech startup HEX20 successfully launched its second satellite, KOYO (Kinetic Optical Yaw Observer), via SpaceX’s Transporter-17 mission. KOYO, carrying 81 payloads, functions as a technology demonstration satellite for in-orbit validation of space hardware and international payloads. It will operate for 18-24 months and builds on the success of HEX20’s first satellite, NILA.
ATREE researchers discover two new rare solitary bee species in Siang Valley, AR
In July 2026, researchers from ATREE, Bengaluru, discovered two new species of rare solitary bees, 'Elaphropoda triangulata' and 'Habropoda adi', in the Siang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. Published in the European Journal of Taxonomy, this finding highlights the Eastern Himalayas' rich biodiversity. These ground-nesting bees are crucial pollinators, and their discovery underscores the need for conservation.
World Youth Skills Day 2026 observed on July 15 with theme 'Skills for a Shared Future'
World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) was observed globally on July 15, 2026, with the theme 'Skills for a Shared Future'. The United Nations (UN) annually marks this day to highlight the critical importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. The UN General Assembly declared July 15 as WYSD in 2014, with the first observance in 2015.
Gujarat's Unjha Cumin & Fennel Receive Geographical Indication (GI) Tags
In July 2026, the Geographical Indications Registry (GIR) granted GI tags to two agricultural products from Gujarat: Unjha Cumin and Fennel. Both products originate from the Unjha region in North Gujarat. This recognition expands Gujarat's list of GI-tagged agricultural products to six.
NABARD Launches 'Gramodyam' Programme to Boost Rural Entrepreneurship
On July 13, 2026, NABARD Chairman Dr. Shaji K. V. launched 'Gramodyam', an Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) to strengthen rural enterprise. This digital-first hybrid model programme will be implemented with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and aims to create approximately 4,000 rural entrepreneurs over three years.
MeitY-DFI Launches NIDAR 2.0 for Drone Development with Indian Chips
In July 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Drone Federation India (DFI) launched NIDAR 2.0 (National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research) for 2026-27. This second edition, under the SwaYaan initiative, focuses on developing autonomous drones and core components powered by indigenous VEGA processors.
IAF Ranks 3rd Most Powerful Air Force Globally in WDMMA 2026 Rankings
In July 2026, the Indian Air Force (IAF) retained its position as the 3rd most powerful air force globally, according to the World Defense Military Analysis (WDMMA) Global Air Power Rankings 2026. The IAF is positioned behind the United States and Russia, staying ahead of China's PLAAF for the fifth consecutive year.
CAC49 Adopts 7 Codex Standards Developed Under India's Leadership
The 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49), held in Geneva from July 6-11, 2026, adopted seven codex standards and guidelines. These standards were developed under India's chairmanship and co-chairmanship, showcasing India's significant contribution to global science-based food standards. The commission also approved a proposal for a new codex standard for cashew kernels.
Ukraine and 9 Nations Form 'Anti-ballistic Missile Coalition' for Europe
In July 2026, Ukraine and nine other countries formed an 'Anti-ballistic missile coalition' to bolster Europe's protection against ballistic missile threats. Announced during the 'Coalition of the Willing (CoW) Summit' in Paris, this initiative aims to develop a shared ballistic missile defence capability and potentially a mass-produced, low-cost system within a year.
India Wins 5 Gold Medals at 56th International Physics Olympiad 2026
In July 2026, India achieved its best-ever performance at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO 2026) in Bucaramanga, Colombia. All five Indian participants secured gold medals, placing India joint first in the overall medal tally alongside Russia, China, Kazakhstan, South Korea, and Taiwan. This marks India's 27th participation in the IPhO.
Three Indian-Origin Experts to Lead US Federal Reserve Monetary Policy Review Task Forces
In July 2026, the United States Federal Reserve (US Fed) appointed three Indian-origin experts: Raghuram Rajan, Raj Chetty, and Asha Sharma, to lead three of its five task forces. These task forces will review the Fed’s monetary policy framework under Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, focusing on balance sheet policy, data, and productivity & jobs.
Russia Launches Soyuz MS-29 Mission Carrying NASA Astronaut Anil Menon to ISS
In July 2026, Russia successfully launched the Soyuz MS-29 crewed mission from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The mission transported NASA astronaut Anil Menon and Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina to the International Space Station (ISS) for Expedition 75. They are scheduled to spend approximately eight months conducting scientific research.
International Day of Hope 2026 Observed Annually on July 12
The United Nations' International Day of Hope is observed annually on July 12. This day promotes hope as a fundamental force for individuals, communities, and nations, particularly during global uncertainties. July 12, 2026, marks the second observance of this day, following the UNGA's resolution on March 4, 2025.
Google India Signs MoU with Tripura to Build AI Ecosystem
In July 2026, Google India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Tripura. This partnership aims to enhance Tripura's Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities, cloud infrastructure, and modernize citizen services. The collaboration will also focus on training 5,000 technical graduates annually for upcoming Global Capability Centres (GCCs), data facilities, and AI research hubs.
ISRO Successfully Conducts Three Gaganyaan Crew Module Tests
In July 2026, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed three crucial tests for the Gaganyaan Crew Module (CM) systems. These tests included float inflation for the Up-Righting system, umbilical separation testing for the Connect-Disconnect System, and structure qualification for Apex Cover separation loads, validating key aspects of India's human spaceflight program.
MoH&UA Unveils SANKALP Framework on CPWD's 172nd Annual Day
On July 12, 2026, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) celebrated its 172nd Annual Day in New Delhi. During the event, Union Minister Manohar Lal of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoH&UA) launched the 'SANKALP' framework. Several books on India's urban transformation were also released.
MeitY Releases Second 'Digital Threat Report 2025-26' for BFSI Sector
In July 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) published the second edition of the 'Digital Threat Report 2025-26'. This report focuses on the Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) and payments ecosystem in India, highlighting cybersecurity threats and providing an 18-month roadmap for financial institutions.
DoT Signs MoU with TSDSI to Enhance Telecom Standards Ecosystem
In July 2026, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Telecommunications Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI) signed an MoU. This agreement aims to bolster India's involvement in global telecom standards, foster indigenous innovation, and support startups and MSMEs under the Bharat 6G Mission through the TDIP Scheme.
PM Modi's Historic Visit to New Zealand Elevates Ties to Strategic Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited New Zealand from July 10-11, 2026, marking the first visit by an Indian PM in 40 years. The visit resulted in 18 outcomes, including 10 MoUs covering defence, trade, and maritime security, and the elevation of India-New Zealand ties to a Strategic Partnership with a Roadmap to 2030.
Bank of Maharashtra Launches FinSpark'26 National Cybersecurity Hackathon
In July 2026, Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) initiated 'FinSpark'26', a national-level cybersecurity hackathon with the theme 'Securing the Future of Banking'. This event aims to encourage students and innovators to develop solutions for cybersecurity challenges in the banking sector, offering a prize pool of over Rs 10 lakh.
FIU-IND Named Runner-up at BECA 2026 for Cyber Fraud Case
In July 2026, the Financial Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-IND) was awarded runner-up at the Best Egmont Case Award (BECA) 2026. This recognition was for its exceptional work in uncovering a large-scale cyber fraud and demonstrating excellence in financial intelligence and global cooperation, involving nearly Rs 868 crore.
Japan Successfully Tests Reusable Rocket Prototype for First Time
In July 2026, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) successfully conducted the first lift-off and landing test of its RV-X reusable rocket prototype. The prototype rose to 10 meters, flew for 40 seconds, and landed safely, demonstrating Vertical Take-off and Vertical Landing (VTVL) technology, a key step in reducing space launch costs.
Indian Women's Cricket Team Achieves Historic Test Victory at Lord's
In July 2026, the Indian Women's Cricket Team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, secured a historic 270-run victory against England in the first-ever Women's Test held at Lord's, London. Yastika Bhatia scored the first Test century at Lord's by a woman, and debutant Kranti Gaud took a five-wicket haul.
Anjum Chopra and Kevin Pietersen Inducted into ICC Hall of Fame
In July 2026, former Indian women's cricket captain Anjum Chopra and former England captain Kevin Pietersen were inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. Anjum Chopra is the third Indian woman and 13th Indian overall to receive this honor, recognized for their significant contributions to international cricket.
Sahitya Akademi Awardee Tamil Writer Poomani Passes Away at 79
In July 2026, acclaimed Tamil writer and novelist Poomani (Pulithurai Manickavasagam) passed away at 79 in Chennai. He was honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2014 for his novel 'Agnaadi', which was based on the Kazhugumalai and Sivakasi communal conflicts. His novel 'Vekkai' was adapted into the film 'Asuran'.
Andhra Pradesh Launches 'Pillale Sampada' Initiative for Population Growth
In July 2026, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched the 'Pillale Sampada (Children are Wealth)' initiative on World Population Day. This scheme aims to promote balanced population growth by offering financial assistance: Rs 30,000 for the third child and Rs 40,000 for the fourth child, addressing declining fertility rates.
DBN, GFGNL, BSNL ने गुजरात में भारतनेट ग्रामीण ब्रॉडबैंड के लिए 5,629 करोड़ रुपये का अनुपूरक समझौता किया
जुलाई 2026 में, दूरसंचार विभाग के तहत डिजिटल भारत निधि (DBN), गुजरात सरकार, गुजरात फाइबर ग्रिड नेटवर्क लिमिटेड (GFGNL), और भारत संचार निगम लिमिटेड (BSNL) ने गुजरात में संशोधित भारतनेट कार्यक्रम (ABP) को लागू करने के लिए 5,629 करोड़ रुपये के कुल परिव्यय के साथ एक अनुपूरक समझौता किया। इसका उद्देश्य ग्रामीण डिजिटल ब्रॉडबैंड कनेक्टिविटी को मजबूत करना है।
Lakhanpur, J&K, Selected for PM SVANidhi Street Food Hub Initiative
In July 2026, Lakhanpur in Kathua district, Jammu & Kashmir, was chosen for the Street Food Hub development under the PM SVANidhi initiative by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. This project aims to establish organized and hygienic street food hubs, promoting local Dogra cuisine, tourism, and sustainable livelihoods for vendors. Each approved hub receives Rs. 4 crore funding.
DoP और TRAI ने सबसे बड़े गांव-स्तर के टेलीकॉम नेटवर्क सर्वेक्षण के लिए MoU पर हस्ताक्षर किए
जुलाई 2026 में, संचार मंत्रालय के डाक विभाग (DoP) और भारतीय दूरसंचार नियामक प्राधिकरण (TRAI) ने भारत के सबसे बड़े गांव-स्तर के टेलीकॉम नेटवर्क प्रदर्शन सर्वेक्षण के लिए एक समझौता ज्ञापन (MoU) पर हस्ताक्षर किए। यह एक वर्षीय पहल 5.68 लाख से अधिक गांवों में भारती एयरटेल, रिलायंस जियो, वोडाफोन आइडिया और बीएसएनएल के मोबाइल नेटवर्क प्रदर्शन का आकलन करेगी।
WIPO रिपोर्ट 2026: भारत वैश्विक नवाचार शक्ति बना, अमूर्त निवेश में 7.9% की वृद्धि
जुलाई 2026 में, विश्व बौद्धिक संपदा संगठन (WIPO) और लुइस बिजनेस स्कूल (LBS) ने विश्व अमूर्त निवेश रिपोर्ट 2026 का तीसरा संस्करण जारी किया। रिपोर्ट ने भारत को अमूर्त निवेश में सबसे तेजी से बढ़ती प्रमुख अर्थव्यवस्था के रूप में उजागर किया, जो सॉफ्टवेयर, अनुसंधान एवं विकास और बौद्धिक संपदा द्वारा संचालित 7.9% वार्षिक वृद्धि के बाद 2023 में 78.2 बिलियन अमेरिकी डॉलर तक पहुंच गया।
भारतीय नौसेना ने स्वदेशी स्टील्थ फ्रिगेट आईएनएस महेंद्रगिरि को पूर्वी बेड़े में शामिल किया
जुलाई 2026 में, भारतीय नौसेना (IN) ने स्वदेशी स्टील्थ फ्रिगेट आईएनएस महेंद्रगिरि (F38) को पूर्वी बेड़े (सनराइज फ्लीट) में शामिल किया। यह छठा नीलगिरि-श्रेणी (प्रोजेक्ट-17A) का फ्रिगेट है, जो MAHASAGAR (हिंद महासागर क्षेत्र के लिए समुद्री सुरक्षा रणनीति) की दृष्टि के तहत समुद्री युद्ध और स्टील्थ क्षमताओं को मजबूत करेगा।
महान पार्श्व गायिका एस. जानकी का 88 वर्ष की आयु में निधन
जुलाई 2026 में, 'दक्षिण भारत की नाइटिंगेल' के नाम से प्रसिद्ध, महान पार्श्व गायिका सिस्टला श्रीरमामूर्ति (एस.) जानकी का 88 वर्ष की आयु में मैसूरु, कर्नाटक में निधन हो गया। उन्होंने 1957 में तमिल फिल्म 'विथीयिन विलायट्टु' से पार्श्व गायन की शुरुआत की और छह दशकों से अधिक के करियर में लगभग 20 भारतीय भाषाओं में 48,000 से अधिक गाने रिकॉर्ड किए।
विंबलडन चैंपियनशिप 2026: जैनिक सिनर और लिंडा नोस्कोवा ने पुरुष और महिला एकल खिताब जीते
2026 विंबलडन चैंपियनशिप, जो 29 जून से 12 जुलाई 2026 तक लंदन में आयोजित हुई, में इटली के जैनिक सिनर ने जर्मनी के अलेक्जेंडर ज्वेरेव को हराकर पुरुष एकल खिताब जीता। चेक गणराज्य की लिंडा नोस्कोवा ने साथी चेक खिलाड़ी कैरोलिना मुचोवा को हराकर महिला एकल खिताब अपने नाम किया।
विश्व जनसंख्या दिवस 2026 - 11 जुलाई
संयुक्त राष्ट्र का विश्व जनसंख्या दिवस प्रतिवर्ष 11 जुलाई को दुनिया भर में मनाया जाता है। इसका उद्देश्य जनसंख्या के मुद्दों के बारे में जागरूकता बढ़ाना और जनसंख्या गतिशीलता, पर्यावरणीय स्थिरता और सामाजिक-आर्थिक विकास के बीच अंतरसंबंध पर जोर देना है। 2026 का विषय 'युवा लोगों की आशाओं और आकांक्षाओं को साकार करना - आज और भविष्य के लिए' है।
उत्तर प्रदेश के मुख्यमंत्री योगी आदित्यनाथ ने अयोध्या के भदरसा शहर का नाम बदलकर 'भरत नगर' किया
जुलाई 2026 में, उत्तर प्रदेश के मुख्यमंत्री योगी आदित्यनाथ ने अयोध्या जिले के 'भदरसा शहर' का नाम बदलकर 'भरत नगर' कर दिया। यह renaming शहर की सांस्कृतिक और आध्यात्मिक विरासत को सम्मानित करने और पास के ऐतिहासिक स्थल भरत कुंड से इसके संबंध को उजागर करने के लिए किया गया है।
EIU Global Liveability Index 2026: Delhi 120th, Copenhagen Tops
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) released its Global Liveability Index 2026, ranking New Delhi 120th globally with a score of 48.1, making it the top Indian city on the list. Copenhagen, Denmark, retained its first position for the second consecutive year, followed by Vienna, Austria, and Melbourne, Australia. The index assesses 173 cities worldwide based on stability, healthcare, culture, education, infrastructure, and environment.
MoEF&CC Inaugurates Centre of Excellence on Human-Wildlife Conflict in Coimbatore, TN
In July 2026, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), inaugurated a Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Human-Wildlife Conflict at WII-SACON, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The CoE will serve as a national hub for research, policy support, and capacity building to manage human-wildlife conflict. A National Human-Wildlife Conflict portal and a publication titled 'Current Status of Human–Wildlife Conflict in India: An Overview' were also launched.
ICMR to Establish India's First High-Altitude Medicine Centre in Himachal Pradesh
In July 2026, Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda laid the foundation stone for India's first Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Centre for High Altitude Medicine and Public Health Research at Keylong, Lahaul and Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh. This centre will focus on long-term research into high-altitude and tribal populations, disaster preparedness, and digital health innovations, leveraging telemedicine and drone logistics.
MSME Ministry Mandates TReDS for CPSE Invoice Settlements
In June 2026, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) mandated all Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) to settle invoices for goods and services procured from MSMEs through Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) platforms. This move, fulfilling a Union Budget FY27 announcement, aims to ensure timely payments to MSMEs, provide them with collateral-free working capital, and enhance transparency and accountability.
PM Modi's Australia Visit: PACTS Launched, AustralianSuper Invests in NIIF
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Australia from July 8-10, 2026, to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Key outcomes included the launch of the 'Australia-India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies, and Supply Chains (PACTS)' to enhance digital infrastructure and cyber resilience. AustralianSuper, Australia's largest pension fund, pledged an additional AUD 500 million investment in India's National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF), bringing its total Indian investment to AUD 3.3 billion.
RBI Launches Three Key Surveys for Monetary Policy Formulation
In July 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched three surveys: the Inflation Expectations Survey of Households (IESH), Rural Consumer Confidence Survey (RCCS), and Urban Consumer Confidence Survey (UCCS). These surveys aim to collect household feedback on inflation, economic conditions, employment, income, and spending across 19 cities and 31 States/UTs. The insights gathered will be crucial inputs for the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting scheduled for August 3–5, 2026.
World Bank Approves USD 890 Million for India's Rooftop Solar Program
In July 2026, the World Bank Group (WBG) approved an USD 890 million financing package for India's 'Prime Minister Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana' (PMSGMBY). This funding aims to accelerate rooftop solar installations, provide clean energy to millions of households, and create 1.7 million jobs in the renewable energy sector. The financing includes loans from IBRD and CTF, along with a grant from the IBRD Livable Planet Fund, and is expected to mobilize USD 4.2 billion in private financing.
DoT's Samriddh Gram Wins WSIS Prize 2026 for Digital Service Delivery
In July 2026, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, Government of India, received the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize 2026 under Action Line C6 for its 'Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model Enabled by BharatNet' initiative. The award, presented at the WSIS Forum in Geneva, Switzerland, recognizes India's innovative use of digital public infrastructure and telecom connectivity for inclusive rural development.
China Achieves First Controlled Recovery of Reusable Long March-10B Rocket Booster
In July 2026, China successfully completed its first controlled recovery of an orbital-class reusable rocket booster, the Long March-10B, following its maiden launch from Hainan Province. This achievement marks a significant milestone in China's reusable space technology, making it the second nation after SpaceX (2015) to achieve such a feat. The booster used landing hooks for sea-based net recovery and is planned for reuse by the end of 2026.
Sourav Ganguly Inducted into ICC Hall of Fame as 12th Indian
In July 2026, former India captain Sourav Ganguly was inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame during its Annual Conference in Edinburgh, Scotland. This honor, on his 54th birthday, makes him the 12th Indian overall and 10th Indian male cricketer to receive this recognition. Ganguly is celebrated for his outstanding contributions to international cricket, including leading India to significant victories and accumulating over 18,000 international runs.
National Fish Farmers’ Day 2026 Observed on July 10
National Fish Farmers’ Day (NFFD) is observed annually across India on July 10. The 26th NFFD was celebrated in 2026 to acknowledge the significant contributions of fish farmers, aquaculture professionals, and scientists to the development of sustainable aquaculture and fisheries in the country. The day commemorates the first successful induced breeding of Indian major carps achieved by Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K.H. Alikunhi on July 10, 1957.
दक्षिण चीन सागर मध्यस्थता पुरस्कार की 10वीं वर्षगांठ मनाई गई
दक्षिण चीन सागर में मध्यस्थता पुरस्कार ने 12 जुलाई 2026 को अपनी 10वीं वर्षगांठ पूरी की। यह पुरस्कार 12 जुलाई 2016 को हेग में स्थायी मध्यस्थता न्यायालय द्वारा संयुक्त राष्ट्र समुद्री कानून संधि (UNCLOS) के तहत जारी किया गया था। इस निर्णय में कहा गया था कि चीन के 'नाइन-डैश लाइन' दावे का अंतर्राष्ट्रीय कानून के तहत कोई कानूनी आधार नहीं है, जो फिलीपींस द्वारा चीन के खिलाफ दायर एक मामले का परिणाम था।
जापान ने प्रायोगिक पुन: प्रयोज्य रॉकेट RV-X का सफल परीक्षण किया
जापान एयरोस्पेस एक्सप्लोरेशन एजेंसी (JAXA) ने 11 जुलाई 2026 को अकिता क्षेत्र में नोशिरो रॉकेट परीक्षण केंद्र में अपने प्रोटोटाइप पुन: प्रयोज्य रॉकेट, RV-X का पहला लिफ्ट-ऑफ और लैंडिंग परीक्षण पूरा किया। लगभग 40 सेकंड की परीक्षण उड़ान में, रॉकेट 10-11 मीटर की ऊंचाई तक पहुंचा, क्षैतिज रूप से 16 मीटर चला और सुरक्षित रूप से उतरा। यह परीक्षण कम लागत और बेहतर दक्षता के लिए पुन: प्रयोज्य रॉकेट प्रौद्योगिकी विकसित करने के जापान के प्रयासों का हिस्सा है।
Parliamentary Panel Approves One Nation, One Election Framework
A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has affirmed that the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, aiming for synchronized national and state polls, aligns with the Indian Constitution. The 41-member committee, chaired by BJP MP P.P. Chaudhary, has examined the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, concluding its consistency with federal structure and democratic principles. The JPC consulted legal experts, including former Chief Justices, and civil society, with broad support for the initiative.
Health Ministry Tightens Rules for Alcohol-Based Drug Formulations
The Union Health Ministry amended the Drugs Rules, 1945, on 10 July 2026, to regulate medicinal products with high ethyl alcohol content. Formulations exceeding 12% v/v ethyl alcohol in quantities over 30 ml are no longer exempt from licensing and prescription control. These products will now require manufacturing and sale licenses and fall under Schedule H1, mandating stricter record-keeping.
NABARD Facilitates GI Registration for 28 New Products
On 10 July 2026, NABARD facilitated the Geographical Indication (GI) registration for 28 new products from across India. This brings the total number of GI products supported by NABARD to 176. GI protection helps connect artisans and producers with higher-value markets and generates jobs.
Delhi Government MoU for Rainwater Harvesting in 75 Schools
The Delhi Government, through the Directorate of Education, signed an MoU with Indraprastha Gas Limited and Ehsaas NGO on 10 July 2026. This agreement aims to implement rainwater harvesting systems in 75 CM Shri Schools. The project, under the 'Catch the Rain' campaign, will recharge groundwater by an estimated 50 crore litres annually across all participating schools.
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission Achieves 93.95 Crore ABHA Accounts
As of 10 July 2026, the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) has successfully created over 93.95 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) numbers. Additionally, more than 105 crore digital health records have been linked. This milestone reflects significant progress in establishing India's interoperable national digital health ecosystem, registering 5.33 lakh health facilities and 9.85 lakh healthcare professionals.
Centre of Excellence on Human-Wildlife Conflict Inaugurated
On 10 July 2026, the Centre of Excellence on Human-Wildlife Conflict was inaugurated at the Wildlife Institute of India–Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (WII-SACON) campus in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Announced by PM Modi in March 2025, this centre will serve as a national hub for research, policy support, and capacity building to manage human-wildlife conflicts.
Indian Air Force Ranks Third in WDMMA Global Air Power List
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been ranked third globally among military aviation powers by country in the World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) 2026 Global Air Powers Rankings. It stands behind the United States and Russia. When individual service branches were assessed, the IAF secured the sixth position.
Indian Navy to Induct Stealth Frigate INS Mahendragiri
INS Mahendragiri, an indigenous stealth frigate, is scheduled for commissioning into the Indian Navy on 11 July 2026 at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam. Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited and designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau, it is the sixth (or seventh) warship of the Project 17A series. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will preside over the ceremony.
Indian Potash and Jain Irrigation Sign Drip Irrigation MoU
Indian Potash Limited (IPL) and Jain Irrigation Systems Limited signed an MoU on 8 July 2026 in New Delhi. The agreement focuses on implementing drip irrigation systems for sugarcane cultivation in Gujarat. This partnership aims to enhance water efficiency, provide farmer training, and facilitate access to credit and grants for adopting micro-irrigation technologies.
ADB Lowers India's FY27 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.6%
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) revised India's GDP growth forecast for FY27 downwards to 6.6% from 6.9% previously, citing high energy prices impacting household incomes. However, ADB maintained its FY28 growth forecast at 7.3%. Concurrently, India's inflation forecast for FY27 was raised to 5.2% from 4.5% due to global oil prices, a weaker rupee, and persistent food inflation.
Telangana to Host 8th Khelo India Youth Games in November 2026
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that Telangana will host the 8th Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) in November 2026. The event aims to provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and nurture grassroots sporting talent, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision. Approximately 8,000 athletes and officials are expected to participate.
ISRO Conducts Main Parachute Airdrop Test for Gaganyaan G1 Mission
On July 7, 2026, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed the Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test-05 (IMAT-05) for the Gaganyaan G1 mission. Conducted at the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) drop zone in Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh, the test validated the Main Parachute System under maximum expected load conditions for the uncrewed mission.
DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket
In July 2026, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. The test demonstrated the rocket's ability to achieve a minimum range of 60 km, accurately impacting its target along the predicted trajectory.
Aviva Becomes First Foreign Insurer to Fully Own Indian Life Insurance Business
UK's Aviva Plc announced the acquisition of the remaining 26% stake in Aviva Life Insurance Company India Limited from its joint venture partner, Dabur Invest Corp. This makes Aviva the first foreign insurer to fully own its Indian life insurance business, following the Indian government's decision in May 2026 to allow 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the insurance sector.
IMF Projects India's FY27 Growth at 6.4%, Global Economy at 3.0%
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its July 2026 'World Economic Outlook Update', projecting India's economic growth at 6.4% for FY27, a slight decrease from its April forecast. For FY28, India's growth is estimated at 6.7%. The global economy is expected to grow by 3.0% in 2026, with an increase to 3.4% in 2027.
PM Modi's Indonesia Visit Strengthens Bilateral Ties, Unveils 'Ganga-Mahakam Vision'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Indonesia from July 6-8, 2026, at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. During the visit, PM Modi addressed the Indonesian Parliament, introducing the 'Ganga-Mahakam Vision' for strategic partnership. He was also conferred Indonesia's highest civilian honor, 'Bintang Adipurna', and witnessed 14 MoUs across various sectors.
Adani Defence Invests ₹2,500 Crore in Missile Manufacturing Complex in MP
Adani Defence and Aerospace has invested ₹2,500 crore to establish South Asia's largest private-sector missile ecosystem in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh. This facility, whose foundation stone was laid by CM Mohan Yadav and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, will focus on indigenous production of medium- to long-range missile systems, ammunition, and high-tech defence equipment.
CSIR-IICT Develops India's First Indigenous Green Refrigerant Technology
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, developed India's first indigenous technology for Hydrofluoroolefin-1234yf (HFO-1234yf). This green refrigerant technology, ready for industry transfer, aims to replace Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in AC and refrigeration systems, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
MoE Releases PGI 2.0-S and PGI-D Reports 2025-26, No State/UT Tops
In July 2026, the Ministry of Education (MoE) published the Performance Grading Index 2.0 for States/Union Territories (PGI 2.0-S) and Districts (PGI-D) for the academic year 2025-26. Notably, no state or UT achieved the highest performance grade for another consecutive year, highlighting areas needing improvement in school education across India.
Minister Annapurna Devi highlights BRICS' role in promoting women's leadership
Minister Annapurna Devi recently stated that BRICS is crucial for enhancing women's leadership. She emphasized that empowering women is fundamental not just for social justice, but also for achieving inclusive and sustainable development.
PM Modi Holds Talks with Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn on Bilateral Ties
Prime Minister Modi engaged in discussions with Sam Mostyn, the Governor-General of Australia. Their meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. This visit to Australia represents the second phase of PM Modi's ongoing three-nation tour.
CEA Nageswaran: India's GCCs face lower AI job risk, yet vigilance is vital.
Chief Economic Adviser Nageswaran noted a comparatively lower AI threat to India's Global Capability Centre (GCC) jobs. Speaking at a GCC Business Summit, he attributed this to their focus on advanced work over basic support services, which AI readily replaces.
Vikram Solar to establish ₹15,037 Cr BESS plant at Tirunelveli's Gangaikondan SIPCOT
An MoU was executed between the Tamil Nadu Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce Department and Vikram Solar Limited. This agreement, signed in the presence of CM C. Joseph Vijay at the Secretariat, secures a ₹15,037 crore investment for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facility in Tirunelveli's Gangaikondan SIPCOT.
Novo Nordisk Introduces Weekly Insulin Shot Awiqli in India
Pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk has launched its new once-weekly insulin shot, Awiqli, in India. Each 70-unit dose of this novel formulation is priced at ₹261.
Sirsa Kinnow Receives GI Tag, Haryana’s First Exclusive Fruit GI Product
Sirsa Kinnow from Haryana has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indication Registry, making it the state's first fruit to achieve this recognition. The tag was awarded to Kharisureran Farmer Producer Company Limited in Sirsa. Originating from California, Kinnow is a hybrid citrus fruit known for its sweet-sour taste and rich Vitamin C content.
GoI Expands PM-SETU to 200 ITI Clusters with Rs 1,237.58 Crore Investment
The Indian government has approved the national expansion of the PM-SETU program to all 200 identified ITI clusters. This initiative, Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs, involves a strategic investment of Rs 1,237.58 crore. The 4th National Steering Committee, chaired by MSDE Secretary Debashree Mukherjee, sanctioned this expansion to boost skill development.
MoE Releases UDISE+ 2025-26 Report on School Education in India
The Ministry of Education released the UDISE+ 2025-26 report on school education, presenting comprehensive data on enrollment, teachers, infrastructure, and retention. Key findings include an 8.3% rise in teacher numbers to over 1.02 crore, improved pupil-teacher ratios across all levels, and declining dropout rates, reflecting better student retention and increased access to higher education.
Union Agriculture Minister Launches PRAGATI Initiative for 20 Lakh Farmers
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the PRAGATI (Promoting Regenerative Agriculture Through Agri-Entrepreneurship Initiative) program in New Delhi. This initiative aims to empower 20,000 agri-entrepreneurs and support 20 lakh smallholder farmers across India. It focuses on sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture, aiming to increase farmers' income by 30% and improve crop yields by 15-20%.
Mizoram’s Natural History Museum Designated India’s 21st Repository
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has recognized Mizoram University’s Natural History Museum (NHM) as India's 21st Designated Repository under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. Located in the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, NHM specializes in diverse taxonomic groups, with over 500 preserved specimens. This designation enhances its role in documenting endemic species and supporting biodiversity conservation.
Union Minister Jual Oram Launches 'TribeX' Digital Platform for Tribal Arts
Union Minister Jual Oram inaugurated 'TribeX', a new digital learning platform dedicated to tribal arts, culture, and traditional knowledge. Launched during a workshop in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, TribeX offers free certificate courses and UGC-recognized PG diploma programs in tribal languages and art forms. It serves as a digital repository to preserve and promote indigenous knowledge and cultural practices.
UNCTAD: India Ranks 11th in Global FDI Inflows (2025) with USD 38.89 Billion
According to UNCTAD's '2026 World Investment Report', India climbed two spots to become the 11th largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) globally in 2025. FDI inflows to India surged by approximately 44% to USD 38.89 billion. The United States remained the top FDI destination, followed by Singapore and Hong Kong SAR, China. India also rose to 18th in FDI outflows.
RBI Appoints Muralidhar Pai as MD & CEO of South Indian Bank
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Mahesh Muralidhar Pai as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of South Indian Bank (SIB) for a three-year term, effective October 1, 2026. He will succeed P.R. Seshadri. Pai brings nearly three decades of experience in various banking domains, previously serving as Chief General Manager at Canara Bank.
ISRO Successfully Hot Tests CE20 Cryogenic Engine for LVM3-M7 Mission
ISRO successfully conducted the flight acceptance hot test of the CE20 cryogenic engine at IPRC, Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This engine is designated for the seventh operational mission of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-M7). The test, performed with a Nozzle Protection System (NPS) for the first time, verified the engine's performance at 19.5 and 22 tonnes of thrust.
Former Afghanistan Fast Bowler Shapoor Zadran Passes Away at 38
Shapoor Zadran, a former Afghanistan fast bowler and a key figure in the country's rise in international cricket, passed away at the age of 38. Known for his left-arm pace, Zadran represented Afghanistan in 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is between 2009 and 2020, taking 80 international wickets. He played a crucial role in Afghanistan's World Cup participation.
UP Cabinet Approves Renaming of Jalalabad Town as Parashurampuri
The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has approved the renaming of Jalalabad town in Shahjahanpur district to Parashurampuri. Its municipal body will also adopt the new name. The change reflects the town's historical and religious significance as the birthplace of Lord Parashuram, moving away from its Mughal-era name.
GIFT City and Vietnam’s Da Nang Financial Hub Sign MoU for Cross-Border Investment
Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) has signed an MoU with Vietnam International Financial Center–Da Nang (VIFC-DN) in New Delhi. This partnership aims to bolster Vietnam’s financial center development, foster cross-border investments, and strengthen financial ties between India and Vietnam. The collaboration focuses on financial services, fintech, digital innovation, and knowledge exchange.
Adani Copper Secures London Metal Exchange Certification
Kutch Copper Limited (KCL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL), has received London Metal Exchange (LME) certification for its 'Adani Copper' Grade A cathodes. This approval allows Adani Copper cathodes to be delivered with warrants eligible for LME Copper futures contracts from July 10, 2026. This achievement grants global recognition and market credibility to Adani's entry into the metals sector.
Bisleri International Partners with Indian Coast Guard for Cleaner Coastlines
Bisleri International has signed a Letter of Association (LoA) with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) for its 'Bottles for Change' initiative. This partnership aims to promote plastic waste management and environmental sustainability in coastal and marine ecosystems. The collaboration will foster responsible collection, segregation, and recycling of post-consumer plastic and raise awareness about preventing marine plastic pollution.
Four MITS University Students Awarded ISTE-2025 Recognition
Four students enrolled at MITS University recently secured the ISTE-2025 awards. This recognition acknowledges their achievements and contributions.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardees Honored
Recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi awards were recently felicitated. This event acknowledged their significant contributions and dedication to the Indian performing arts. This recognition underscores their artistic excellence.
Global Passport Index 2026: Sweden Ranks First, India at 125th
According to the Global Citizen Solutions (GCS) Global Passport Index (GPI) 2026, Sweden holds the top position as the world's strongest passport with a score of 96.05. India is ranked 125th out of 197 countries, with a composite score of 45.1, showing a slight drop from its 2025 ranking. The index evaluates passports based on enhanced mobility, investment, and quality of life.
FM Sitharaman Visits France, Strengthens Economic & Strategic Partnership
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman undertook a four-day visit to France from July 1-4, 2026, to bolster India-France strategic partnership and economic cooperation. She co-chaired the France Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD), where both nations agreed to boost cooperation on critical minerals and secure resilient supply chains. The visit also included engagements with business leaders and a visit to the ITER project.
Amit Shah Launches Key Initiatives at 5th Ministry of Cooperation Foundation Day
Union Minister Amit Shah inaugurated several initiatives at the 5th Foundation Day of the Ministry of Cooperation at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi on July 6, 2026. The government announced plans to establish a Cooperative Life Insurance Company, aligning with the 'Sahakar Se Samriddhi' vision. Initiatives included transferring godowns, launching a National Cooperative Database 3.0, and a Geo-tag Mobile Application.
West Bengal Announces Rs 313 Crore Special Package for Tea Garden Workers
The West Bengal government announced a special assistance package of Rs 313 crore for tea garden workers under the Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana (PMCSPY) in July 2026. This package aims to enhance the living standards of tea workers and their families, with allocations for education, health, and housing infrastructure. The North Bengal Development Department (NBDD) will be the nodal implementing agency for the scheme.
World Kiswahili Language Day 2026 Celebrated on July 7
World Kiswahili Language Day is observed annually on July 7 by UNESCO to acknowledge Kiswahili's role in promoting unity, peace, and cultural exchange across Africa and beyond. The 2026 theme was 'Kiswahili for Peace, Solidarity and Global Economic Diplomacy.' The day commemorates the adoption of Kiswahili as a unifying language by the Tanganyika African National Union in 1954.
Padma Shri Girish Bharadwaj, 'Bridge Man of India', Passes Away
On July 7, 2026, Padma Shri awardee Girish Bharadwaj, known as the 'Bridge Man of India', passed away at 76 in Sullia, Karnataka. An engineer and social worker, he built over 150 low-cost suspension bridges, connecting remote villages across five Indian states to essential services. He received the Padma Shri in 2017 for his significant contributions to social work and rural connectivity.
India Wins 41 Medals at U15, U20 Asian Wrestling Championships 2026
Indian wrestlers achieved remarkable success at the U15 and U20 Asian Wrestling Championships 2026 in Pattaya, Thailand, from June 27 to July 5. India secured a total of 41 medals: 20 in the U20 category (4 gold, 7 silver, 9 bronze) and 21 in the U15 category (8 gold, 6 silver, 7 bronze). India also won bronze in the U15 team trophy and finished second in U20 Women's Wrestling.
China Launches New Marine Satellite “HY-2E” for Enhanced Ocean Monitoring
In July 2026, China successfully launched its latest oceanographic satellite, “Haiyang (HY)-2E,” aboard a Long March 4B rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. HY-2E is designed to replace the HY-2B satellite and will work alongside existing HY-2 series satellites (HY-2C and HY-2D) to monitor the global marine dynamic environment. Developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), it features advanced microwave remote sensing payloads.
NPCI's Dilip Asbe Appointed to SWIFT Global Supervisory Board
Dilip Asbe, the Managing Director and CEO of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has been appointed to the Supervisory Board of the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) in July 2026. This appointment aligns with SWIFT's new two-tier governance structure and strengthens India's representation in global financial messaging, enhancing strategic oversight with balanced regional representation.
New Chiefs Appointed for BPR&D, NCRB, and SVPNPA
In July 2026, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved key appointments for three prominent police and law enforcement institutions. Alok Kumar Mittal was named Director General of the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D). Amit Garg was appointed Director of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and Sujeet Pandey became Director of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA).
Nepal's Jestha Varna Mahavihar Receives 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award
The 17th-century Jestha Varna Mahavihar, a historic Buddhist monastery in Lalitpur, Nepal, received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award 2025 for its exemplary conservation efforts. The restoration, funded by an Indian grant after the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, combined modern seismic retrofitting with traditional Newari woodcarvings and architecture. The award recognizes its community-centred approach and preservation of living heritage.
Global Biofuel Alliance Selects 15 Fellows for GBCF Programme
The India-led Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) has selected 15 early-career researchers globally, including two from India, for its Global Biofuel Champion Fellowship (GBCF) programme. Launched in New Delhi, this flagship initiative aims to accelerate sustainable bioenergy solutions and foster global clean energy partnerships. Each fellow will receive a research grant of USD 15,000 and serve as GBA Ambassadors for two years.
POWERGRID Secures JPY 80 Billion Green Loan from JBIC for RE Project
Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) has secured a Japanese Yen (JPY) 80 billion green loan from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC). This significant financing will support the Khavda–Nagpur High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission project, crucial for integrating renewable energy from Gujarat's Khavda Renewable Energy Park into the national grid. This is one of India's largest green funding arrangements for the power transmission sector.
Private Indian company's Mission Drishti, world's first OptoSAR satellite, loses communication post-solar storm
The world's first OptoSAR satellite from a private Indian company, Mission Drishti, was launched by SpaceX on May 3, 2026. Aboard a Falcon 9 from Vandenberg, California, the satellite subsequently lost communication following a solar storm.
Assam CM Seeks Enhanced Japan Cooperation in Semiconductors, Clean Energy
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conveyed Assam's strong interest in furthering the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. The state is committed to fostering a stronger bilateral relationship, focusing on key areas such as semiconductors and clean energy.
Prime Minister Modi Receives Indonesia's Top Award, 'Bintang Adipurna', in Jakarta
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with Indonesia's highest civilian distinction, the 'Bintang Adipurna', during a visit to Jakarta. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated this award signifies the strong India-Indonesia friendship.
India to Supply BrahMos Missiles to Indonesia, Bolstering Bilateral Defence Ties
India is set to supply BrahMos missiles to Indonesia, indicating a significant expansion in their bilateral defence relationship. This agreement follows similar defence pacts India previously signed with nations like Vietnam and the Philippines for missile procurement.
ISRO successfully completes first SOLVE ground test for Gaganyaan mission's deceleration system
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the initial ground test of SOLVE, its solid motor-based test platform. This platform is designed for Integrated Parachute Tests, validating the Gaganyaan mission's Crew Module deceleration system under diverse conditions.
India to Convene Two-Day BRICS Anti-Drug Conference
India will showcase its comprehensive strategies to combat the drug menace during the two-day BRICS anti-drug conference. The discussions will focus on tackling synthetic drugs, strengthening intelligence sharing, and enhancing operational coordination among member countries.
EAM Jaishankar Meets Qatar PM, Discusses Bilateral Ties and Regional Issues
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar recently met the Prime Minister of Qatar, where they reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation and discussed regional developments. During his wider tour, Mr. Jaishankar is scheduled to interact with top leaders and counterparts in four Gulf countries. The objective is to strengthen bilateral relations and share perspectives on mutual concerns.
First Instalment of ₹25,863 Crore Disbursed Under VB-GRAM G Scheme
The inaugural instalment totalling ₹25,863 crore has been released under the VB-GRAM G scheme. Uttar Pradesh received the highest allocation of ₹3,210.76 crore, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu. Persistent concerns include centralized planning and high technological access barriers.
Amit Shah to Inaugurate Projects Marking Five Years of Cooperation Ministry
Union Minister Amit Shah will unveil multiple initiatives as the Ministry of Cooperation observes its fifth anniversary. He is set to lay the foundation stone for 47 grain storage godowns and introduce a centralised core banking platform. Additionally, 'Sahakar Sahyogi,' an AI-powered conversational platform designed for Urban Cooperative Banks, will be launched.
Radio-Tagged Vulture Z25 Dies in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve After Hitting Power Line
A radio-tagged White-rumped vulture, Z25, was frequently protected by data transmitted from conservation scientists to forest personnel and NGO partners at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Despite earlier successful interventions, the vulture unfortunately died after colliding with a power transmission line before a final planned rescue.
CPI(M) alleges trade union leader's detention to prevent anti-Centre scheme protests before CM's visit
CPI(M) State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao claimed police detained trade union leader Ch. Chandrasekhar. This was allegedly to preempt demonstrations concerning the Centre’s proposed employment scheme. The detention occurred prior to visits by the Chief Minister and a Union Minister.
Microsoft Establishes Frontier Company with $2.5 Billion to Aid AI Adoption
Microsoft has initiated a new operating entity named Frontier Company. This venture aims to assist businesses in integrating Artificial Intelligence technologies. The tech giant is providing initial funding of $2.5 billion for its launch.
Microsoft, AWS Focus Engineers on AI Profitability; Microsoft Shares Decline Since January
Microsoft and AWS are deploying engineers to boost Artificial Intelligence (AI) profitability. Despite strong growth in its cloud business, Microsoft has seen its shares drop by nearly a quarter of their value since January, facing market disappointment.
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 Launch to Boost India's Private Space Sector
Skyroot Aerospace's co-founder and CEO Pawan Kumar Chandana highlighted the Vikram-1 launch. This vehicle represents India's first privately developed orbital-class rocket. It is engineered to deploy small satellites, up to 350 kg, into Low Earth Orbit.
Visa rolls out OTP-less payment method for partner customer
Visa rolls out OTP-less payment method for partner customer
PM Modi and Japanese PM inaugurate Maruti Suzuki’s fourth plant at Kharkhoda
PM says two-thirds of Suzuki’s global production now comes from India; Toshihiro Suzuki, head of Suzuki Motors announces plans to expand the Haryana facility to one of the world’s largest car manufacturing plants
Ministry of Tourism, Google sign MoU to boost tourism economy through tech
Designed as a collaborative and knowledge-sharing framework, this strategic MoU aimed to support the Ministry in creating a seamless and enriching travel ecosystem that drives both economic benefits and social impact across Indian destinations
India's First Private Orbital-Class Rocket Vikram-1 Set for Launch
India's inaugural privately developed orbital-class rocket, Vikram-1, is scheduled for its maiden test flight, designated Misson Aagaman. The launch window for this significant event is slated between July 12 and August 4, representing a key development in the nation's private space capabilities.
Krithi Karanth Becomes First South Asian 2026 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year
Krithi Karanth, CEO of Bengaluru-based Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), is the first South Asian named 2026 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year. Her work focuses on human-wildlife conflict, a key area for the four-decade-old CWS.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri receives one-year service extension
India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, has been granted a one-year extension in his service. Before assuming the Foreign Secretary role, Mr. Misri held the position of Deputy National Security Adviser.
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Appointed IAF Vice-Chief; Lt Gen Sandeep Jain Becomes Army Vice-Chief
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the new Vice-Chief of the Indian Air Force. Concurrently, Lieutenant General Sandeep Jain assumed the position of Vice-Chief of the Army Staff in the Indian Army.
Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann Appointed Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, IAF Southern Air Command
Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann has assumed the role of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief for the Indian Air Force's Southern Air Command. Previously, he served as the Senior Air Staff Officer at the Western Air Command.
Alphabet Joins Dow Jones Industrial Average, Increasing 'Magnificent Seven' Presence to Five
Alphabet has been included in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Its debut increases the number of 'Magnificent Seven' members in the Dow to five, alongside Nvidia, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft.
UN Report Identifies $800 Billion Climate Fund Shortfall in Asia-Pacific, Urges Coordinated Efforts
A UN report identifies an $800 billion climate finance shortfall in the Asia-Pacific. It concurrently underscores the necessity of biodiversity conservation via nature-positive pathways. Achieving these objectives demands an enabling environment for integrated, systemic, and transformative actions within the region.
Sanjay Jaju Assumes Role of Telangana Chief Secretary
Shri Sanjay Jaju has officially taken charge as the new Chief Secretary for the state of Telangana. This significant administrative appointment is a key development for aspirants preparing for government examinations.
General Dhiraj Seth Assumes Leadership of India's 1.3 Million-Strong Army
General Dhiraj Seth has taken command of the 1.3 million-strong Indian Army. He steps into the role as the force focuses on achieving self-reliance and future readiness, concurrently addressing border challenges.
PFC, REC Boards Clear Merger Plan; Combined Loan Book to Top ₹11 Lakh Crore
The boards of Power Finance Corporation (PFC) and REC Limited have sanctioned their merger scheme. This approval, under Sections 230 to 232 of the Companies Act, 2013, is projected to create an entity with an aggregate loan book surpassing ₹11 lakh crore.
215 mushroom species documented in Aralam and Kottiyoor wildlife sanctuaries
Rare glowing fungi among key finds
NTCA Reviews Two Decades of Tiger Reintroduction, Satkosia Offers Insights
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is evaluating its two-decade-long tiger reintroduction and population recovery initiative. This assessment covers 12 tiger reserves across India. The experience at Satkosia Tiger Reserve serves as a significant case study in these ongoing efforts.
Withdraw order appointing Venkata Narayana as Special Representative of Tamil Nadu in Delhi: Premallatha
The DMDK leader urged the State government and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to withdraw the appointment.
Haryana, Rajasthan sign MoU to implement 1994 Yamuna water agreement
After the agreement, Rajasthan will get its due water through an underground water pipeline from Hathini Kund barrage during monsoon months
Telangana Launches Pulse Polio Drive Targeting 40 Lakh Children
Telangana has initiated a Pulse Polio campaign with the aim to vaccinate over 40 lakh children. Health Minister C. Damodar Raja Narasimha highlighted the necessity for ongoing precautions, despite the state having reported no polio cases for more than a decade.
Peruvian Stingless Bees Secure Historic Legal Rights for Existence
In May, stingless bees in Peru were granted legal rights to exist, thrive, and be represented in court, marking a global first for insects. This landmark decision is significant for species conservation, offering protection against threats such as insecticides, climate change, and competition from non-native insects.
Accenture Revises Full-Year 2026 Revenue Growth Guidance to 3-4%, Impacts Tech Sector
Accenture recently adjusted its full-year 2026 revenue growth guidance. The multinational firm now projects 3-4% growth, a reduction from the previous 3-5%. This revision led to a decline in its stock and further impacted the global tech services industry amid existing uncertainties.
B. Manickam Tagore Appointed Tamil Nadu Congress Committee President
B. Manickam Tagore has been named the new president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee. His appointment occurs as the Congress party ended its alliance with the DMK and formed a new partnership with the TVK in Tamil Nadu.
Chandrababu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan to launch VB-G RAM G in Tirupati on July 2
Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan will launch the VB-G RAM G initiative in Tirupati district on July 2. The event, held at Mukkavaripalle, marks its first major gathering since merging with Tirupati. Union Ministers Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Pemmasani Chandrasekhar are also expected to attend.
Rajolibanda Diversion Scheme: Project Details and Beneficiary Ayacut
The Rajolibanda Diversion Scheme serves an ayacut area exceeding 83,900 acres. This project benefits 75 villages across regions like Gadwal and Alampur in the erstwhile Palamuru (Mahbubnagar) district.
Mahesh Dixit appointed Intelligence Bureau chief
He is among the Home Ministry officials who are engaged in talks with civil society leaders of Ladakh.
GHMC Chief City Planner K. Srinivas Appointed as RERA Secretary
K. Srinivas, previously GHMC Chief City Planner, has been transferred. He is now appointed as the Secretary of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
Those who target schools, children with impunity must be held into account: India tells UNSC
The United Nations verified 38,558 grave violations, which affected 24,174 children in 2025 (15,493 boys, 7,990 girls, 691 sex unknown), the highest number of children affected by grave violations since the beginning of the mandate
Andhra Pradesh Aqua Farmers Concerned by ₹10/kg, ₹12/kg Shrimp Feed Price Hike
Aqua farmers in Andhra Pradesh are grappling with concerns over the profitability of shrimp farming. A recent increase has seen Vannamei shrimp feed prices rise by ₹10 per kg and Black Tiger shrimp feed by ₹12 per kg. This hike poses a significant challenge to their operations.
AU, APEWIDC sign MoU for infrastructure development
AU, APEWIDC sign MoU for infrastructure development
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy meets PM Modi; announces plans to invest additional $13 billion in India on cloud, AI
The company plans to launch more than 20 new fulfillment centers and over 100 new last mile delivery stations this year, bringing faster and reliable deliveries to customers nationwide, especially in tier 3 and 4 cities.
Telangana drafts tourism proposals for national summit on global destination development
Telangana state is developing comprehensive tourism proposals. These proposals are slated for presentation at an upcoming national summit. The summit focuses on strategies for creating global-standard tourism destinations across India.
Union government will roll out major dredging plan for dams across India: C.R. Patil
The Union Minister praised the coming together of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on a common platform, saying the participation of the three CMs in the Tungabhadra event reflected a spirit of cooperation over a shared water resource
D.K. Shivakumar: Historic Tri-State Consensus as Tungabhadra Dam New Gates Inaugurated
D.K. Shivakumar stated that Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana achieved a significant agreement. Discussions covered vital farmer issues, including the proposed Navali balancing reservoir. They also addressed silt removal from the reservoir to enhance water conservation and storage capacity.
Anthropic launches Claude Tag in Slack with plans for wider rollout
Cat Wu, Anthropic’s head of product for Claude Code, said in an interview: “A lot of the capabilities did exist, but actually the form factor of being able to tag it the same way that you would a coworker is really powerful”
Bronze statue of Maharishi Sushruta made in Swamimalai unveiled at Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
The statue was made at Swamimalai in Tamil Nadu by a team led by highly respected sculptor and master craftsman Ragavanantham Sthapathi
Why is Sri Lanka’s dengue outbreak straining its public health sector? | Explained
47,530 cases and 29 dengue-related deaths reported as of June 22; the government has appointed a military-led monitoring unit, the Health Ministry said several hospitals were operating beyond capacity
Sandeep Patil appointed Mumbai’s team mentor
Sandeep Patil’s credentials extend far beyond his aggressive strokeplay that illuminated India’s triumphant 1983 World Cup campaign.
Vijay Amritraj, Mammootty, Rohit Sharma, Alka Yagnik take home Padma awards
President gives away second set of 65 awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Kozhikode’s forest cover holds steady at 1,882 sq km
With forests covering 80.26% of its land area, Kozhikode ranks first in Kerala in forest cover proportion
Bengaluru to host BRICS heads of space agencies meet on June 23-24
Heads and senior representatives of the space agencies of the 11 BRICS member countries will attend the meeting
Piyush Goyal, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer begin talks on trade pact
Discussions aim to finalize the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement, addressing recent changes in U.S. tariffs and exploring mutual benefits in key sectors
Rate cuts transmission moderated in May 2026: RBI
Between May 2022 and Jan 2025, RBI increased repo rate by 250 bps. Between February 2025 and April 2026, the repo rate decreased 85 basis points
François Englert of Higgs boson fame passes away at 93
Englert is best known for his work in the early 1960s about how subatomic particles get their property of mass, for which the 2013 physics Nobel Prize alongside Peter Higgs
High Court Panel Sets Deadline for Meghalaya on Illegal Coal Trade
The High Court of Meghalaya established the Justice B.P. Katakey committee in April 2022. Its mandate is to oversee and regulate the state's coal sector. The committee has now set a deadline for the Meghalaya government to curb the illicit coal trade.
Similipal Tiger Reserve: Translocated tigress Zeenat gives birth to four cubs, aiding conservation
Tigress Zeenat, translocated from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) to Similipal Tiger Reserve (Odisha) two years ago, recently delivered four cubs. This aids conservation efforts to address a genetic mutation causing pseudo-melanism, characterized by dense, merging stripes, in Similipal's tiger population.
PM Modi visits President Murmu’s in-laws’ village, explores tribal traditions and way of life
President and PM inaugurate and lay foundation stones for development projects worth more than ₹47,000 crore, including a ₹25,016 crore coal gasification unit, ₹6000-crore power projects and ₹700-crore railway infrastructure works
President Droupadi Murmu Leads International Yoga Day Celebrations in Jabalpur
President Droupadi Murmu spearheaded International Yoga Day celebrations. She performed exercises with Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, and thousands of participants. The state-level event took place in Jabalpur.
Abhay and Velavan Secure Squash Title at Asian Doubles Championships
The squash duo, Abhay and Velavan, achieved victory at the Asian Doubles Championships. They successfully secured the championship title.
Cunha's brace leads Brazil to 3-0 victory against Haiti in FIFA World Cup 2026; Haiti eliminated
Brazil secured a 3-0 triumph over Haiti in a Group C fixture of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Cunha netting two goals. This second defeat for Haiti resulted in their elimination, making them the first team to exit the current tournament.
Vivek Aggarwal Appointed Financial Action Task Force Vice-President
Vivek Aggarwal, currently Secretary in the Culture Ministry, has been appointed as Vice-President of the Financial Action Task Force. This selection enhances India's involvement in global financial governance. It also strengthens international efforts against money laundering, terrorist financing, and illicit financial flows.
Environmental and Policy Experts Express Concerns on SC-Appointed Aravallis Panel
The Supreme Court appointed Professor Jagdish Krishnaswamy (Indian Institute for Human Settlements, Bengaluru) and Professor Laxmikant Sharma (Central University of Haryana) as special invitees. These individuals may be associated with the Aravallis committee's work by the chairperson, if deemed necessary.
CM Chandrababu Naidu Launches Induction Stove Scheme for 44,346 Anganwadi Centres
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu recently initiated a programme to equip anganwadi centres. Under this, induction stoves and cooking vessels will be supplied to all 44,346 centres throughout the State. The estimated cost for this initiative stands at ₹32 crore.
Pemmasani Inaugurates New Facilities at SKBMM High School, Guntur
Pemmasani recently inaugurated new infrastructural facilities at SKBMM High School located in Guntur. This initiative aims to enhance the educational environment for students at the institution.
Novartis India Debuts Pluvicto for Prostate Cancer Management
Novartis India has initiated the availability of Pluvicto in the country. This therapeutic agent is intended for addressing prostate cancer patients, marking a significant development in oncology.
Karnataka plans to link voter ID for Gruha Jyothi reapplicants
Karnataka intends to connect voter IDs for those reapplying for its Gruha Jyothi scheme. This initiative offers free monthly electricity, capped at 200 units per month.
Chief Minister Directs Medical Graduates Towards Rural Service; 72,000+ Degrees Conferred
During a recent academic ceremony, more than 72,000 students were conferred degrees. Additionally, 103 top-scoring individuals received gold medals in various disciplines. The Chief Minister urged the medical graduates to focus their service efforts on India's rural regions.
Unilever Collaborates with Accenture to Deploy Digital Twins in Manufacturing
Unilever is deploying digital twins across its manufacturing network with Accenture. This integration, powered by AI and agentic capabilities, aims to enhance issue identification, accelerate scenario simulation, and improve decision-making throughout the production cycle.
World suffers from shortage of trust: PM Modi to G7 leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump greet each other against a backdrop of strained India-U.S. ties; the two leaders are scheduled to meet on Wednesday
India Dispatches 20,000 Measles Vaccines, 3 Tonnes Medical Aid to Maldives Amid Rising Cases
The Ministry of External Affairs announced India dispatched 20,000 doses of measles vaccines and approximately 3 tonnes of medical supplies to the Maldives. This assistance aids the island nation in managing its rising measles cases.
Indian Shooter Jaspal Rana, Arjuna, Padma Shri, Dronacharya Awardee, Passes Away at 49
Jaspal Rana, a distinguished Indian shooter and Asian Games gold medallist, has passed away at the age of 49. He was honoured with the Arjuna Award in 1994, the Padma Shri in 1997, and the Dronacharya Award in 2020 for his significant contributions to the sport.
Kozhikode Startup Fontspell Unveils Football-Themed Fonts for FIFA 2026 Inspiration
Fontspell, a startup situated in Kozhikode, Kerala, has launched new fonts embodying the energy, culture, and spirit of football. These designs are inspired by the sport's global appeal, with a relevance to upcoming events such as FIFA 2026. This showcases local creative entrepreneurship.
Lt. Gen. Rajiv Ghai Appointed First Serving Military Adviser to NSCS
Lt. Gen. Rajiv Ghai has been designated as the Military Adviser to the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). This marks the first instance a serving military officer has held this crucial position. The NSCS operates directly under National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.
NTPC Simhadri receives environmental excellence award
NTPC Simhadri has been conferred an environmental excellence award. This distinction acknowledges the power plant's dedication to sustainable ecological practices.
Pentagon Awards Microsoft $9.7 Billion CETA for Cost Efficiency
The U.S. Pentagon has awarded Microsoft a $9.7 billion Core Enterprise Technology Agreement (CETA). This deal aims to reduce costs and streamline software license management. It represents a renewal of existing software contracts rather than new expenditure.
Canada Proposes Legislation to Restrict Social Media for Under-16s
Canada has introduced legislation aimed at prohibiting children under 16 years of age from holding social media accounts. This initiative aligns with an expanding global movement to strengthen digital safety protocols for minors.
FIFA World Cup: Full list of winners
Here’s the complete list of FIFA World Cup winners from 1930 to 2022, highlighting the tournament’s rich history
Thiruvananthapuram Corporation launches campaign to prevent monsoon-related diseases
The civic body will strengthen preventive measures in the coming days, including awareness campaigns and vector-control activities
Union Cabinet Skips HMRL Phase-II Approval; Ahmedabad Metro Expansion Cleared
The Union Cabinet meeting did not include a decision on the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) Phase-II project, a joint venture with the Telangana government. Concurrently, the extension of the Ahmedabad metro project received approval during the same meeting.
Union Cabinet approves ₹2,533 crore office and housing projects for Central staff in Amaravati
The CCEA clears the CGGPOA and GPRA projects to build office and residential space for Central government staff in the capital
Union Cabinet approves Ahmedabad Metro link to airport ahead of Commonwealth Games 2030
The Ahmedabad Metro Phase-2A project will cover a distance of 6 km and is expected to be completed within four years and the corridor will comprise four elevated stations and one underground station
New Fish Species, Eechathalakenda Incognita, Discovered in Western Ghats, Resolving Evolutionary Mystery
A new fish species, Eechathalakenda incognita, has been identified in the Western Ghats. This discovery resolves a long-standing evolutionary puzzle, as the species was previously mistaken for Eechathalakenda ophicephala for seven decades.
NASA Unveils Artemis III Crew (US, Italian) for Orbital Docking Tests Late Next Year
NASA has revealed the crew for its Artemis III mission, comprising U.S. and Italian astronauts. This mission aims to test spacecraft docking procedures in Earth's orbit, utilizing mooncraft from SpaceX and Blue Origin. The launch is scheduled for late next year.
Chennai's A. Krishnan First Indian to Win Causeway Challenge 2026 Scrabble Title in Bangkok
A. Krishnan from Chennai has become the first Indian to secure the Causeway Challenge 2026 title. He achieved this significant victory in the competitive Scrabble tournament held in Bangkok. This accomplishment marks a notable milestone for India in the international Scrabble arena.
Perplexity Aims for 2028 IPO Amidst Competitors' Public Listing Moves
Perplexity reportedly intends to launch its Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2028, irrespective of whether rival AI firms Anthropic or OpenAI go public. This development follows OpenAI's confidential U.S. IPO filing on Monday and Anthropic's similar filing made last week.
President Murmu confers 7 Kirti Chakras; IAF pilot, Gaganyatri Prasanth Nair among recipients
Lt. Commander Dilna K. and Lt. Commander Roopa A. of the Navy are among the Shaurya Chakra recipients after completion of Navika Sagar Parikrama II; Sepoy Janjal Pravin Prabhakar of the Mahar Regiment of Rashtriya Rifles and Lt. Shashank Tiwari of the Sikkim Scouts have been conferred the Kirti Chakra posthumously
Zojila Tunnel to add to Army’s manoeuvrability against Pakistan, China
Closure of Kashmir-Ladakh highway for six months during winters due to heavy snowfall restricts the movement of military vehicles, strategic Zojila Tunnel will resolve inaccessibility, enhancing military mobility
Coromandel International, Samunnati Agri Value Chain ink MoU to aid FPOs
Coromandel International, Samunnati Agri Value Chain ink MoU to aid FPOs
Apple rolls out new, AI-powered Siri at annual WWDC
Apple CEO Tim Cook said the WWDC this year will center on Apple Intelligence and Siri
Govt cuts subsidised LPG cylinders under Ujjwala from 9 to 4
PMUY beneficiaries use about ‘four or five cylinders a year’, Petroleum Ministry says; around 10.55 crore LPG connections given under scheme
West Bengal joins Ayushman Bharat scheme
“The portability feature of PM-JAY would be particularly beneficial for migrant workers from West Bengal and their families. Beneficiaries working or residing in other States would be able to access cashless treatment at nearby empanelled hospitals across the countr,’’ said Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda
Karnataka HC Upholds Law for BWSSB Sewer Lines on Private Land
The Karnataka High Court validated a law permitting the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to lay sewer lines through private properties without land acquisition. The court clarified the Act requires BWSSB to minimize damage and provide full compensation, not allowing unrestricted land appropriation.
Nvidia Secures AI Infrastructure Agreements in South Korea
Nvidia's AI infrastructure agreements in South Korea contribute to the global expansion of AI data centres. This development has triggered a worldwide scarcity of memory chips. Major producers like SK hynix and Samsung Electronics have subsequently seen their profits surge.
Announcement Made Regarding Literary Awards
The announcement concerning annual literary awards has recently been published. This development is relevant for candidates preparing for government examinations.
Telangana CM unveils ₹1,674 crore infra projects in Cyberabad to boost Hyderabad's growth.
The Telangana Chief Minister inaugurated infrastructure projects valued at ₹1,674 crore. These initiatives target the Cyberabad region, aiming to propel Hyderabad's future growth trajectory.
Union Agriculture Minister says BRICS meeting in Indore to focus on food security, farmer welfare
The discussions under India’s presidency will include a three-day agriculture working group meeting from June 9 and a two-day BRICS ministerial meeting from June 12
Project Glasswing: Key cybersecurity agencies set to get access to Anthropic’s Mythos
Project Glasswing: Key cybersecurity agencies set to get access to Anthropic’s Mythos
Padma Vibhushan N Rajam reflects on Banaras, music and a lifetime with the violin
Padma Vibhushan N Rajam reflects on Banaras, music and a lifetime with the violin
A movement losing momentum and daughters as Haryana’s sex ratio declines
Launched by PM Modi in Panipat in 2015, the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign initially delivered strong results. Haryana’s Sex Ratio at Birth rose from 838 in 2010 to 923 by 2019, driven by strict raids on pre-natal testing centres, inter-State crackdowns, monthly video conference reviews, and fixed accountability. However, data for the first four months of 2026 show that the number of girl babies born has dipped below 900, sparking fears that the programme is losing focus and momentum, reports Ashok Kumar
North Korean leader’s sister says nuclear programme ‘absolutely non-negotiable’: Yonhap
North Korea has long insisted on its right to a nuclear weapon and ballistic missile programmes, although they are forbidden under the terms of UN Security Council sanctions
India, Nepal can decisively shift trajectory of bilateral ties to achieve full potential: Jaishankar
Nepal wants to pursue “result-driven diplomacy” with India, its “most important partner”, says Nepal FM; “strong complementarities” between the current governments in Delhi, Kathmandu, says EAM
Mirra Andreeva wins first Grand Slam title at French Open
The 19-year-old Russian swept aside surprise finalist Maja Chwalinska 6-3 6-2 on a blustery Court Philippe Chatrier, where the Pole appeared frozen by the magnitude of the occasion
Kochi Mayor claims effective pre-monsoon works spared city of major waterlogging
Despite the incessant rain, there has been no flooding, unlike in the past when it disrupted traffic, says V.K. Minimol
Character AI poses unique risks for young users, mental health experts warn
Excessive dependence on such tools can have unintended consequences for both mental well-being and cognitive functioning
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit to be next Vice-Chief of Air Staff
He has been associated with the Indian Air Force’s modernisation drive and indigenous fighter aircraft programmes
Indus Treaty "Suspended" Till Pak Stops Cross-Border Terrorism: Centre
Rejecting Pakistan's criticism of two river projects, India on Friday reiterated its consistent stance on the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), saying that the agreement remains in abeyance until Pakistan completely stops cross-border terrorism.
Why this AI-designed vaccine is different: It targets the whole virus family, not just one strain
Why this AI-designed vaccine is different: It targets the whole virus family, not just one strain
Nepal Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal arrives in Delhi, meets NSA Doval
First Nepal Minister to visit India since Balen Shah government took charge in March; expansive agenda for talks includes development cooperation, people-to-people ties, trade and investment
US adds 172,000 jobs in May, easing fears of labour market slowdown
US adds 172,000 jobs in May, easing fears of labour market slowdown
Madras HC flags procedural violations in Kilambakkam Bus Terminus Project
Justice V. Lakshminarayanan, however, desists from declaring the establishment of the bus terminus as illegal since the law permits ex post facto approval too
AHER and TJU collaboration has fostered world-class research, says U.S. scientist
AHER and TJU collaboration has fostered world-class research, says U.S. scientist
India launches flex fuel; E85 petrol to be ₹20 cheaper than regular fuel
India's state-run oil companies launched E85 ethanol-blended petrol, priced ₹20 cheaper than regular fuel. The government aims to expand distribution as it targets 26% aggregate ethanol blending by 2030–31 to reduce the significant annual crude import bill.0
SBI chief says growth momentum will stabilise if RBI holds rates
SBI chief says growth momentum will stabilise if RBI holds rates
Russia delivers fourth squadron of AI-enabled S-400 air defence system
Three S-400 squadrons have already been inducted into service; the fourth has now arrived, following delays linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict
UK foreign secretary Yvette Cooper to meet Jaishankar to review ties
Yvette Cooper, who completed a trip to China on Wednesday, travelled to India close on the heels of a visit by UK business and trade secretary Peter Kyle
Census fieldwork contradicts government data, enumerators asked to revisit, review data
Director Census Operations (DCO), Rajasthan, writes to all district functionaries that ‘during the analysis of field data collected so far, some discrepancies have been noticed’; enumerators allege they have been asked not to ‘select options that may show the government in poor light’
British Foreign Secretary to meet PM Modi, Jaishankar on June 3
British Foreign Secretary to meet PM Modi, Jaishankar on June 3
British Foreign Secretary to meet PM Modi, Jaishankar on June 3
British Foreign Secretary to meet PM Modi, Jaishankar on June 3
Future City Police focus on cybercrime, road safety and monsoon preparedness
Future City Police focus on cybercrime, road safety and monsoon preparedness
India's Fairwood Nuclear, South Korea's SK Securities sign pact to advance small reactor projects
The collaboration establishes a non-exclusive framework for identifying strategic partnerships, engaging institutional and private investors, and facilitating access to capital and technology ecosystems
TheraNym Biologics opens ₹1,200 crore manufacturing facility near Hyderabad
Telangana Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu inaugurates the new facility of the Aurobindo Pharma subsidiary that is expected to generate job opportunities for more than 1,500 local youth
Hyderabad police introduce annual awards for excellence in investigation
Hyderabad police introduce annual awards for excellence in investigation
P. Sumathi appointed ‘first Woman Secretary’ to Law Department
P. Sumathi appointed ‘first Woman Secretary’ to Law Department
'Iran was building conventional shield': Rubio defends US war against Tehran at Senate hearing
'Iran was building conventional shield': Rubio defends US war against Tehran at Senate hearing
Oyo-parent Prism secures SEBI's nod to launch ₹6,650-crore IPO
Prism opted for the confidential pre-filing route, which allows the company to engage with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for initial feedback on its draft document without it being publicly disclosed
Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodriguez to visit India
Ms. Rodriguez will pay a visit to India from June 3 to 7 and she will be accompanied by Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Economy and Finance, Science and Technology, Communication and Information and Transportation
Siddaramaiah appointed to Congress Working Committee days after resigning as Karnataka CM
Siddaramaiah appointed to Congress Working Committee days after resigning as Karnataka CM
India’s climate science has lost ‘instrument-making culture,’ leading researchers warn
Using imported equipment that remains uncalibrated has led to incorrect data being reported, marring the credibility of Indian science; researchers also want to study the long-term consequences of uncontrolled tapping of natural resources for renewable energy
State Highways restores damaged Yelagiri Hills Road
Highways officials said that the hills consist of small rocks. earthen retaining walls in 10 identified spots were built to prevent sliding of rocks and strengthen the re-laid carriageway
No place for third parties in border issues: MEA in response to Nepal PM while hosting country’s ruling party chief
MEA spokesperson responds to claims made by Balen Shah who had asserted that the boundary issue is a complex one with both India and Nepal having possession of each other’s territory and had sought intervention of the U.K. and China
US again throws India over the Russian oil barrel
US again throws India over the Russian oil barrel
National workshop on seafood exports to be held in Visakhapatnam
National workshop on seafood exports to be held in Visakhapatnam
Officials instructed to gear up for monsoon sowing, intensify vigil in flood-prone areas
Officials instructed to gear up for monsoon sowing, intensify vigil in flood-prone areas
Can US levy more tariffs on India for ‘excess capacity, forced labour'? Section 301 investigations explained
In March this year, the US initiated Section 301 investigations against India over allegations of excess capacity in manufacturing and the use of forced labour in global supply chains.
Indian Employees Feel Burnout, Yet Over 80% Don't Exhaust Their Leaves
While Indian employees enjoy relatively generous leave entitlements, they are among the least likely to use them fully, according to a new report.
Why Nepal PM's 'encroaching' India remark has sparked row: Border dispute explained
In a recent address, Nepal's Prime Minister ignited tensions by addressing Indian 'encroachments' along the border, which necessitated a swift clarification from officials in Kathmandu. The territorial dispute involving Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura stretches back to a treaty signed in 1816 and hinges on the interpretation of the Kali River's source.
Relief for Indian airlines: Jet fuel price for international flights cut by 27%; no change for domestic flights
Relief for Indian airlines: Jet fuel price for international flights cut by 27%; no change for domestic flights
TDP leader accuses YSRCP of defaming Naidu government over DSC recruitment
TDP leader Boina Govinda Rajulu accuses the YSR Congress Party of trying to defame the Naidu government over the DSC recruitment drive
‘Shadow of crime’ can't replace dignity: Delhi high court recognises ‘right to be forgotten’
It held that de-indexing and masking are constitutionally valid measures that help balance privacy rights and public access to court records.
How India-Oman Trade Pact Opens Alternative Route To Gulf Beyond Hormuz
The India-Omani CEPA comes into force amid the ongoing US-Iran war, which has severely disrupted the movement of ships in the international waters crossing the Strait of Hormuz.
UPI transactions hit record high of ₹29.9 lakh crore in May
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) said the value of transactions was at ₹29.03 lakh crore in April against ₹25.14 lakh crore in the same month a year ago, registering a 19% growth on an annual basis
West Bengal Cabinet undergoes expansion, 35 MLAs take oath as Ministers
13 BJP MLAs were sworn in as Cabinet Ministers, three as Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and 19 as Ministers of State in West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s Council of Ministers
Karnataka government constitutes Quantum Task Force
The committee will be responsible for blueprinting and overseeing the development of key cutting-edge infrastructure in Karnataka, including the mega Quantum City at Hesaraghatta
Why is India pushing for coal gasification? | Explained
What is coal gasification and how does it have the potential to substitute imports? What technical challenges does high-ash Indian coal pose for gasification? Where does India stand with respect to coal gasification and related technology?
Brief respite from heat in Delhi as thunderstorm, rain trigger dip in temperature
Brief respite from heat in Delhi as thunderstorm, rain trigger dip in temperature
All India Council For Technical Education Fellowship 2026 Offers Rs 1 Lakh Monthly Support To Faculty
AICTE invites applications for the Industry Fellowship Programme 2026 offering faculty one year of industry immersion with a stipend of Rs 1 lakh per month.
Iran War Highlights: Trump's Meet With Aides Ends Without "Final Determination"
US Iran War LIVE Updates: US President Donald Trump had on Wednesday dismissed an Iranian state media report that Iran and Oman would jointly manage shipping through the Strait of Hormuz
US Says Capable Of Resuming War With Iran As Deal Remains Elusive
The United States warned on Saturday it was "more than capable" of resuming its war with Iran after President Donald Trump said any peace deal must adhere to his red lines, including Tehran...
Centre revises export duties on petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel from June 1. Check revised prices
The export duties were introduced in March to ensure domestic availability of petroleum products amid the ongoing West Asia crisis.
National Teacher's Eligibility Test Scorecard Available On DigiLocker, Says NTA
NTET 2026 Scorecard: A total of 5,813 female candidates appeared for the exam, while 3,228 male applicants appeared for the NTET 2026.
Watch: US strikes another vessel in 'narco-trafficking' routes, killing three
In a bold move against drug trafficking, US military forces have launched a series of airstrikes on vessels suspected of transporting narcotics in the eastern Pacific, leading to the demise of several individuals involved. This operation underscores a renewed effort to dismantle Latin American drug cartels and halt the relentless influx of illegal drugs into the United States.
General Subramani takes charge as new Chief of Defence Staff
Gen. N.S. Raja Subramani was serving as the Military Advisor at the National Security Council Secretariat and he retired as the Vice Chief of Army Staff on July 31 last year
Government revises fuel export levies for fortnight beginning June 1, domestic rates unchanged
The duty has been set at ₹1.5 per litre on petrol exports, ₹13.5 per litre on diesel exports and ₹9.5 per litre on ATF exports, as per an official notification
Assam Cabinet to be expanded on June 5, says CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
On May 12, 2026, Himanta Biswa Sarma took oath as Chief Minister along with four other Ministers
India to see 90% of long period average rainfall this monsoon: IMD
The monsoon which was forecast to arrive in Kerala on May 26 would be likely in the first week of June, the IMD said
Red alert for airlines? Middle East war pushes global passenger demand down 3.4% in April
The West Asia conflict has severely impacted global aviation, causing a 3.4% drop in passenger demand in April due to soaring fuel prices and airspace disruptions. Middle East carriers saw a drastic 46.6% decline. Airlines are reducing flights and increasing fares as a result of these ongoing challenges.
Amit Shah begins visit to areas along the international border in Gujarat
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visits Gujarat’s international border to review security and engage with local officials and BSF officers
India needs 216 multimodal logistics parks by 2047 for smooth freight movement: CII
A Union government official had told HT that the government had now downscaled its approach to build only nine of them, primarily due to land acquisition constraints
‘Vande Mataram’ row sparks political storm after Kerala Governor’s policy address
Controversy after Kerala Police band skips playing ‘Vande Mataram’ in its entirety at opening session of 16th Kerala Assembly. Governor Rajendra Arlekar takes strong exception to govt’s decision to play the song in part. BJP accuses UDF of caving in to pressure from Jamaal-e-Islami and CPI(M)
One day of extreme heat causes 3,400 excess deaths across India, study estimates
One day of extreme heat causes 3,400 excess deaths across India, study estimates
Big blow to Indian exporters as Japan bans Indian mango imports after 20 years over ‘pest-control’ lapses
Japan maintains a zero-tolerance approach towards invasive pests, especially fruit flies, which are regarded as a major risk to the country's agriculture sector.
Cooling-off period not needed for good judges post retirement: Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal
The debate around cooling-off periods is often based on a perception that judges could be rewarded for favourable judgments, but such assumptions are misplaced, says Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal
Record 1.24 million devotees offer hair at Tirumala temple in 27 days
12,43,063 devotees offered their hair between May 1 and 27, significantly surpassing the total figures of 10,18,370 recorded in May 2025 and 10,65,729 in May 2024
Chandrayaan-2 radar data reveal possible subsurface ice near Moon’s south pole
Chandrayaan-2 radar data reveal possible subsurface ice near Moon’s south pole
Four weightlifters in National camp test positive
Since three were potentially in contention for Commonwealth Games berths, the development might affect India’s prospects at the Glasgow event
Resolve water disputes through cooperation: Modi tells States
The Prime Minister made the remarks at the 51st PRAGATI meeting, where seven critical infrastructure projects across railways, power and road sectors covering nine States worth around ₹30,000 crore were reviewed
Encroachments condoned in forest area mandated for protection near Damagundam VLF station
Encroachments condoned in forest area mandated for protection near Damagundam VLF station
No legal action if infiltrators go back on their own: Amit Shah
Union government committed to identifying and deporting every single infiltrator from the country, says Home Minister
Making progress on normal ties after border peace: India, China
Making progress on normal ties after border peace: India, China
Indian Air Force likely to oversee transport of NEET-UG re-test papers
This measure follows the cancellation of the original examination after an alleged question paper leak
SFI stages protest against delay in construction of govt. law college
Members say that the State govt. should start classes starting this year
US inflation hits three-year high in April as Americans' income and spending power erodes
In April, inflation rose to 3.8%, the highest in three years, impacting American finances. Prices for essentials like groceries and electricity are increasing, prompting concerns among Federal Reserve officials about potential rate hikes instead of cuts as consumer incomes decline.
Norway Chess: Innovations spark buzz among fans
Norway Chess: Innovations spark buzz among fans
US weapons stockpile depleted after Iran strikes, rebuilding could take 3 years: Report
US weapons stockpile depleted after Iran strikes, rebuilding could take 3 years: Report
Man sentenced to seven years rigorous imprisonment in POCSO case
Man sentenced to seven years rigorous imprisonment in POCSO case
Why men are at higher risk of heatstroke deaths in India: Experts explain NCRB data
Why men are at higher risk of heatstroke deaths in India: Experts explain NCRB data
Technical Education Dept. asks Karnataka colleges to take measures to protect adolescent students from abuse and exploitation
This follows recommendation by the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights
Telangana Transport Minister flags off 60 EV buses, says TGSRTC merger process will begin after union elections
Representatives of recognised unions and officials to begin TGSRTC merger process after elections for recognised unions
‘I don’t care about the midterms': Trump as he vows not to rush into signing a peace deal with Iran
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (local time) vowed to strike a favourable deal to end the war with Iran, warning that the regime's efforts to outlast him won't work.
Government sanctions over 60% manpower boost for Enforcement Directorate
While special directors remain unchanged at seven, additional directors have increased from 10 to 24; joint directors from 28 to 49; and deputy directors from 148 to 267
Supreme Court upholds SIR exercise as an advancement towards free and fair elections
Court says EC can verify citizenship status for inclusion or exclusion from the electoral roll; it directs poll body to refer the names of Bihar electors purged from the rolls to the Centre for adjudication under the Citizenship Act
Govt says industrial consumers buying cheaper retail fuel meant for small users
The Union ministry of petroleum and natural gas on Wednesday raised concerns that industrial consumers are buying cheaper retail fuel at pumps operated by state-run oil-marketing companies (OMCs), instead of costlier bulk fuel,
Indian Army, IAF contain major forest fire in Himachal’s Kasauli slopes
The combined operation stretched over 15 hours through the night and into the following day; no loss of life or injuries reported; operations are continuing over inaccessible stretches
CBSE schools struggle to retain foreign language teaching faculty after three-language policy
CBSE schools struggle to retain foreign language teaching faculty after three-language policy
'Unwarranted': India rejects references to Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement
India firmly dismissed China and Pakistan's joint statement concerning Jammu and Kashmir, asserting the region's integral status. The country also condemned the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects and reiterated its opposition to any foreign interference in its territorial integrity.
‘Provide land to landless to honour H.S. Doreswamy’
A demand that a prominent circle and a metro station be named after the freedom fighter has also
Quad FMs announce maritime, energy initiatives amidst Hormuz chokehold, tense South China Sea
FMs pledge collaboration on energy security, maritime surveillance, domain awareness; Quad joint statement calls for freedom of navigation, adherence to international law in Hormuz, Red Sea, South China Sea
CM for enabling panchayats to credit their own source revenue in bank accounts
He directs amendment to Panchayat Raj Act in this direction
SC allows Reliance, Centre to pursue conciliation in 13-year-old KG-D6 row
After five days of hearings, a three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipul M. Pancholi accepted Reliance’s plea for conciliation, counsel for the Reliance-led consortium said
Amid official denials, sources say Congress high command nudges Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to come to the Rajya Sabha
Amid official denials, sources say Congress high command nudges Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to come to the Rajya Sabha
We'll Have Fewer Doctors, Scientists: US Tech Founders On New Green Card Rule
Reid Hoffman, the co-founder of LinkedIn, questioned the move, saying, "Does this mean AI Researchers, employees, and students will now have to leave the country and wait through a backlog process to continue their work?"
India-U.S. and Quad frameworks on critical minerals take shape amid Chinese curbs
Agreement built upon continued engagements between two countries, including India becoming a signatory to the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative on February 20, 2026.
Half of petrol vehicle owners experienced lower mileage after ethanol blending, finds survey
Amid government claims of successful ethanol blending, a survey shows significant drops in vehicle mileage and increased repairs, especially for older cars. With concern rising, experts recommend reassessing the policy to ensure fuel efficiency and support for consumers.
Taint of defection is not vaporised by resignation, Supreme Court had said in a judgment
The court had ruled that a Speaker is bound to accept voluntary, genuine resignation
Did Election Commission cross the line over SIR? Supreme court to rule tomorrow
The challenge centres on whether the ECI possesses the authority to undertake what the petitioners described as a de novo reconstruction of electoral rolls
Meet the endangered species that are surviving in India’s national parks
Meet the endangered species that are surviving in India’s national parks
Andhra Pradesh emerges as a pioneer in AI-driven healthcare innovations, says Minister
Satya Kumar Yadav promotes AI-driven diagnostic tests, says that these not only provide accurate results but also improve the speed of delivery of healthcare services and make tests affordable for people
A.P. Ministers review excise reforms, liquor policy
A.P. Ministers review excise reforms, liquor policy
KSRTC bags international award for training excellence
KSRTC bags international award for training excellence
Naidu calls for blue economy vision plan for Andhra Pradesh coastline
Chief Minister directs officials to prepare a comprehensive strategy focusing on sustainable coastal development, marine resource utilisation, aquaculture value addition and ecological protection
‘Willing to listen to people’: Govt open to feedback on LTCG, STCG taxes, says Sitharaman
Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed openness to investor concerns regarding capital gains tax, assuring that the government will consider stakeholder suggestions. She also defended recent fuel price hikes, attributing them to global crude oil costs and highlighting the government's prior absorption of excise duties.
Police launch cybercrime prevention training for constables in Vijayawada
Police launch cybercrime prevention training for constables in Vijayawada
Federation Cup finale disappoints as Indian javelin throwers miss CWG mark
Federation Cup finale disappoints as Indian javelin throwers miss CWG mark
Govt bars piped gas users from buying cooking gas cylinders
India's annual consumption of LPG is about 33 million tonnes. The West Asia war and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz have severely hit India's LPG supplies, as about 90% of its cooking gas imports earlier came from West Asia.
Farmers are an integral part of alco-bev industry, do not leave them behind: Timmapur urges industry
Most raw materials required for breweries — including barley, grains, fruits, and other agricultural produce — are cultivated by farmers. The government is committed to grow the industry beyond Bengaluru
At 32.4 Degrees Celsius, Delhi Records Warmest May Night In 14 years
The maximum temperature at Safdarjung, the city's base station, settled at 43.5 degrees Celsius, 3.3 degrees above normal.
US Iran War Live Updates: Hormuz May Reopen 30 Days After Iran, US Strike Peace Deal
US Iran War Live Updates: Iran's top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Iran's armed forces had rebuilt their capabilities during the ceasefire.
India raises concerns over US visa and immigration policies with Rubio
India on Sunday raised its concerns over the Trump administration’s recent changes in visa and immigration policies with visiting US secretary of state Marco Rubio
India, US seek early interim trade deal; delegation to visit New Delhi soon
Jaishankar emphasised the importance of an early understanding on the trade deal at a joint news conference with Rubio
Steps will be taken to modernise prison administration: T.N. Law Minister Nirmalkumar
Many remand prisoners continue to remain in prison beyond the stipulated period, and the Law Department would explore the possibilities of extending legal aid to them, he said.
Kerala’s iconic wild elephant ‘Chillikomban’ dies after being washed away in Parambikulam Aliyar Project contour canal
Chillikomban was known as a docile tusker that lived amongst people in the Nelliampathi region, without causing trouble. The tusker would traverse to the Tamil Nadu side during musth and return to the home turf, recalled a biologist from Kerala.
Hyderabad police aim to break language barriers with AI
An AI-powered multilingual complaint recording tool launched by Hyderabad police that can transcribe, translate and convert spoken complaints in 10 Indian languages into FIR-ready documents in real time
Amit Shah to review Indo-Pakistan border security, anti-drone measures in Rajasthan
Home minister Amit Shah will chair a high-level review on border security and anti-drone measures during his two-day Bikaner visit.
GI tag application filed for ‘Ananthapuramu Lemon’ from Anantapur district
Madanapalle Institute of Technology and Science files the application through its Intellectual Property Facilitation Centre, citing the fruit’s uniform size, bright colour, high juice content and long shelf life
Rozgar Mela: Union Minister Suresh Gopi urges new recruits to collectively realise the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’
As many as 130 candidates receive appointment letters during mela held in Thiruvananthapuram; Minister hails the initiative, says it is part of a larger national vision aimed at transforming India’s youth power into national power
Kerala’s new UDF government proposes measures to improve tax collection, planning and project implementation
Proposals part of Vision 2031 roadmap cleared by State government. Revamping Goods and Services Tax department among plans
CM to inaugurate SHG-run solar plants during women’s week celebrations: Seethakka
CM to inaugurate SHG-run solar plants during women’s week celebrations: Seethakka
IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur roped in to resolve CBSE ‘technical challenges’ in portal; Ministry issues directions
IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur roped in to resolve CBSE ‘technical challenges’ in portal; Ministry issues directions
Four-day meet to be held in Toronto on Tamils, classical Tamil in the world of AI
The last date for the submission of abstracts for papers is June 10
From weed to wealth: Assam women turn water hyacinth into livelihoods near rhino habitat
Providing people in fringe areas with an alternative source of livelihood facilitates the conservation of Laokhowa-Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary
Major changes announced in policing Kerala; Operation Toofan to be launched on June 1
'Operation Toofan – The Narco Hunt’ is a major anti-drug drive by the Kerala Police aimed at eradicating drug networks and curbing the exploitation of students by narcotics rackets
Most sixes in an IPL season: How 2026 IPL broke all six-hitting records
Most sixes in an IPL season: How 2026 IPL broke all six-hitting records
FIFA nears India broadcast deal for World Cup, Zee emerges as strong contender
FIFA nears India broadcast deal for World Cup, Zee emerges as strong contender
International Booker Prize at 10: How it became the face of literature in translation
International Booker Prize at 10: How it became the face of literature in translation
SC lawyers’ body SCAORA elects new office bearers, naming Devvrat as president
Devvrat elected SCAORA president as Supreme Court lawyers’ body announces new leadership; counting for other posts concludes in Delhi.
Government to introduce new recruitment policy in next Assembly session: Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari
Government to introduce new recruitment policy in next Assembly session: Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari
Watch | Petrol, diesel prices hiked again; third increase in eight days
Petrol and diesel prices rose again across the country, marking the third fuel price hike in just eight days and pushing cumulative increases to nearly INR 4.8 per litre since May 15. CNG prices also went up in parts of North India as soaring global crude rates continued to pressure domestic oil companies.
Raghav Chadha appointed chairman of Rajya Sabha Committee on Petitions
“The Chairman, Rajya Sabha has, on 20 May 2026, nominated Dr Menaka Guruswamy, Member, Rajya Sabha, to be a member of the Joint Committee on the Corporate Laws [Amendment] Bill, 2026,” says Rajya Sabha secretariat.
Child rights group urges NCPCR to set up WhatsApp helpline for abused children
The proposal said once a complaint along with the exact Google Maps location is received, the information should be forwarded to the local police, Labour Department and CWC for action
Piyush Goyal meets officials, industry representatives to discuss ways to boost manufacturing
The exercise is aimed at reducing the import bill of the country, as outflows of foreign exchange are impacting the value of the domestic currency against the U.S. dollar
Marco Rubio embarks on 4-day India visit: ‘Excited for this important trip’ — what's on agenda?
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will arrive in India on Saturday, a day after attending the NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden. He will stay in India till May 26.
RBI's record dividend payout of Rs 2.87L cr: How will it help govt amid Middle East crisis?
Experts believe that the RBI’s record surplus transfer will offer only partial support to the government’s strained fiscal position amid the continuing crisis in West Asia.
Delhi’s hot nights are becoming a health risk: AIIMS doc explains why the body never gets a chance to recover
Delhi’s hot nights are becoming a health risk: AIIMS doc explains why the body never gets a chance to recover
Pakistan to issue commemorative coin to mark 75 years of ties with China
Pakistan to issue commemorative coin to mark 75 years of ties with China
Right to be heard before cognisance of charges under BNSS applicable under PMLA: SC
The Supreme Court said the right of an accused to a fair trial, whose liberty is at stake, cannot be dispensed with
America's second-biggest state sues Meta; says: WhatsApp is misleading users
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued Meta and WhatsApp, alleging they misled users about the privacy of their messages. The lawsuit claims WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption promises are false, with reports suggesting employees can access user communications.
New CEO has ‘hands full’ of challenges, says Air India’s Campbell
Campbell Wilson said he would depart the company within two months and the next four years would be “just as challenging as the past, albeit in a different way”
Elections brought our households to a stop: The domestic labour crisis urban India keeps ignoring
Elections brought our households to a stop: The domestic labour crisis urban India keeps ignoring
Chandrayaan-3 Wins Top US Space Honour Years After Historic Moon Landing
Chandrayaan-3 has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award by AIAA, recognising the mission's groundbreaking achievements in lunar exploration.
Sports startup SWOT Sportech uses analytics and biomechanics to train young athletes
SWOT Sportech aims to bring elite-level sports science and performance analytics to grassroots athletes across India
Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan elected Kerala Speaker
In the elections held to Speaker’s post, Thiruvanchoor won 101 votes, while A.C. Moideen of Opposition LDF and B.B. Gopakumar of BJP-led NDA won 35 and 3 votes respectively. Speaker formally announces Pinarayi Vijayan as Opposition Leader
Election Commission of India announces Rajya Sabha polls for 24 seats on June 18
ECI said the elections for the Rajya Sabha seats will be held in 10 States where the incumbents are retiring on different dates beginning June 21 to July 19
Freedom of expression vital in a democracy: Justice Nagarathna
Speaking at the launch of The Constitution Is My Home, justice BV Nagarathna said divergent thoughts and perspectives must always be allowed to be expressed.
Quad Foreign Ministers to meet in Delhi on May 26; Marco Rubio to visit India
Quad Foreign Ministers to meet in Delhi on May 26; Marco Rubio to visit India
TVK-led Tamil Nadu government: full list of Ministers
The specific portfolios for the nine Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) ministers were previously announced on Saturday (May 16, 2026), with Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay retaining key departments