Finance Minister introduces Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to allow MDR on UPI and RuPay debit card payments
Key Updates:
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in Parliament.
- The bill proposes changes to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 to allow banks and payment system providers to charge fees on UPI and RuPay debit card payments.
- Possible MDR for UPI transactions is estimated at 0.3-0.6% for merchants with annual turnover over Rs 50 crore, according to Decentro's Sridhar Guntuku.
- Another estimate suggests MDR of 0.05-0.07% for merchants with annual turnover of at least Rs 1-1.5 crore, according to Zeta's Mehul Mistry.
- Only 4% of person-to-merchant UPI payments in 2025-26 were above Rs 2,000, but they accounted for about two-thirds of UPI payments by value.
- The government's existing incentive scheme for small merchants caps subsidy at 0.15% of transaction value.
- Industry estimates suggest annual cost of operating UPI and RuPay debit card infrastructure could be at least Rs 10,000 crore, possibly up to Rs 20,000 crore.
- A LocalCircles poll found only 12% would continue using UPI if a fee is levied on payments above Rs 3,000 at large merchants, and only 2% if merchants pass on the fee.
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OmniCard (Eroute Technologies Pvt. Ltd.) is an RBI-licensed Prepaid Payment Instrument issuer. The Flexi Benefits Basket on UPI allows employees to allocate benefits across meal, fuel, telecom, books & periodicals…
India has partnered with 24 countries to adopt components of India Stack, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and DigiLocker. UPI merchant payments are now available in Bhutan, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Qatar…
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is developing an offline 'tap and pay' feature for the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. Users must first load money into…
NPCI International Payments Ltd. (NIPL), the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), partnered with Nepal Clearing House Ltd. (NCHL) to launch a cross-border remittance linkage. The…
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holds repo rate at 5.25%, retains neutral stance for fourth straight meeting
Key Updates:
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), at its August 2026 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% for the fourth consecutive meeting.
- The six-member MPC unanimously decided to continue with the neutral stance.
- The RBI raised India's GDP growth forecast for FY27 to 6.7% from 6.6%.
- The RBI revised its Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation estimate for FY27 to 5%.
- Headline inflation has edged up above the target, while core inflation, excluding precious metals, remains benign.
- RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced the planned rollout of polymer currency notes at the start of FY28, initially for lower-denomination notes with high circulation.
- The RBI proposed a uniform lending rate framework for banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and other regulated entities to enhance transparency and monetary policy transmission.
- The RBI issued draft guidelines for licensing new urban co-operative banks (UCBs) after a gap of more than two decades.
- The RBI will proactively ensure sufficient liquidity in the system.
- The RBI expects healthy FCNR(B) inflows and has no plans to close the FCNR(B) scheme prematurely.
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Oil marketing companies will revise domestic (14.2 kg) and commercial (19 kg) LPG cylinder prices on August 1, 2026, based on international energy prices. Indian Railways has introduced a token system for Tatkal ticket…
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched three key surveys on 9 July 2026 to provide critical inputs for formulating monetary policy. The July 2026 round of the Inflation Expectations Survey of Households captures…
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent and retain its neutral policy stance. The RBI revised its real Gross Domestic…
US Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh announced the leaders of five task forces to examine the central bank’s monetary policy approach. Three Indian-origin experts were named: former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan…
Coal Ministry auctions six coal blocks in 15th round of commercial coal auctions
Key Updates:
- The Coal Ministry auctioned six coal blocks under the 15th round and the second attempt of the 13th round of commercial coal mine auctions.
- Forward auctions for these blocks were conducted from August 3-4, 2026.
- Four of the six coal blocks are fully explored and two are partially explored.
- The six blocks hold geological reserves of around 1,503.93 million tonnes and a cumulative Peak Rated Capacity of 11.62 mtpa.
- The auctioned blocks are expected to generate annual revenue of around ₹1,983.67 crore, attract capital investment of nearly ₹1,743 crore, and create 15,710 employment opportunities.
- Since the inception of commercial coal mining in 2020, 147 coal blocks have been auctioned with a production capacity of 377.974 mtpa.
- The 147 coal blocks are cumulatively estimated to yield annual revenue of ₹48,215 crore, mobilize capital investment of ₹54,315 crore, and generate 4,89,552 employment opportunities.
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The Government of India launched the eighth tranche of critical mineral auctions, offering 20 blocks. Of the 20 blocks, 13 were newly identified and seven were unsold from previous rounds.
The Ministry of Coal has permitted successful coal block allocatees to use insurance surety bonds (ISB) instead of performance bank guarantees (PBG). This change was notified under the Coal Blocks Allocation Amendment…
The Union Ministry of Coal and Mines (MoCM) is prioritising surface and underground coal gasification to reduce import dependence and target investments of ₹4 lakh crore. The initiative aims to save approximately ₹3 lakh…
The Ministry of Coal (MoC) is providing ₹1,350 crore support under its coal gasification incentive scheme for the Lakhanpur coal-to-ammonium nitrate project. The government has approved coal gasification incentive…
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) secures ₹15,000+ crore offshore contract from ADNOC Offshore
Key Updates:
- Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured an ultra-mega offshore contract valued at ₹15,000+ crore from ADNOC Offshore.
- The contract will be executed through a consortium led by L&T Energy Hydrocarbon Offshore (LTEH Offshore).
- The project scope includes engineering, procurement, construction, installation and commissioning (EPCIC) of multiple offshore facilities and upgrades to existing infrastructure.
- A portion of the fabrication work will be carried out at L&T's fabrication yards.
- The offshore development will be undertaken in the Middle East.
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The Union Cabinet approved the 'Samudra Manthan' National Offshore Exploration Scheme with an outlay of ₹84,084 crore. The scheme will be implemented by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas until FY 2030-31.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth approximately Rs 425 crore with Bharat Forge Ltd for the procurement of 12 sets of 1.25 MW Marine Gas Turbine Generators. The contract for the Indian Navy was signed…
The MoU between Tamil Nadu government and Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) involves a total investment of Rs 18,600 crore and creation of employment for approximately 8,200 people. L&T will undertake a Data Centre Expansion…
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has secured a 10-year marine services contract for Argentina's first liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project. The deal involves an estimated investment commitment of $70…
Supreme Court Tightens Digital Arrest Scam Rules; RBI to Frame SOP for Mule Bank Accounts
Key Updates:
- The Supreme Court directed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to frame a standard operating procedure (SOP) within four weeks for dealing with mule bank accounts used to launder cyber fraud proceeds.
- The court directed all states and Union territories to operationalise the cyber fraud grievance redressal and money restoration modules developed under the home ministry's January 2, 2026 SOP.
- The court directed the remaining states to notify their State Cyber Crime Coordination Centres within four weeks and adopt the e-Zero FIR system in consultation with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).
- The court asked the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and I4C to study the technical feasibility of time-based restrictions on audio and video calls to curb digital arrest scams.
- The court directed the Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) to examine a shared liability and victim compensation framework for victims of digital arrest scams.
- The court directed that the next status report include state-wise and bank-wise data on complaints registered, complaints disposed of, restoration orders issued, successful restorations, and amounts restored.
- The court asked the IDC to examine lowering the ₹10 crore threshold for mandatory Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation and aggregating multiple frauds by the same organised network.
- The status report recorded that digital arrest scam complaints on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal fell from 123,672 in 2024 to 58,249 in 2025 and to 16,377 till June 30, 2026.
- The court noted that over 36,000 cases have been investigated and more than ₹18 crore has been restored to victims through the government's money restoration mechanism.
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The Supreme Court of India passed an interim order on July 24, 2026, barring unauthorized posting of audio-video recordings of judicial proceedings on social media. The order was issued by a bench comprising Chief…
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted coordinated searches at more than 80 locations across 16 states under Operation Chakra-VI. The 16 states involved in the operation are Punjab, Gujarat, Delhi…
The Supreme Court bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan upheld the 28% retrospective Goods and Services Tax (GST) on online gaming. The court held that online gaming activities involving staking upon…
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) now requires prior approval for share transfers crossing 5%, 10%, 25%, 50%, or 75% holding thresholds. IRDAI approval is also required when an investor…
Tamil Nadu's 'Palli Niraivu Thittam' to Upgrade 3,734 Schools with ₹2,132 Crore
Key Updates:
- The Tamil Nadu government allocated ₹44,527 crore for school education in the 2026-27 budget.
- The 'Palli Niraivu Thittam' will upgrade infrastructure in 3,734 government schools at an estimated cost of ₹2,132 crore, with ₹300 crore allocated for the current financial year.
- The 'Perunthalaivar Kamaraj Residential Schools' scheme will establish residential schools for Classes IX to XII with an initial investment of ₹125 crore.
- The 'Vetri Laptop Scheme' will provide laptops to college students with an allocation of ₹2,000 crore.
- The 'Vetri Skill Training Scheme' will provide industry-aligned skilling to 12 lakh college students and 1 lakh unemployed youth.
- The 'Thaai Maaman Gold Coin Scheme' will provide a 1-gram gold ring to babies born in government hospitals, with an allocation of ₹560 crore.
- The 'Tamil Nadu Student Housing & Infrastructure Corporation (TNSHIC)' will construct 200 integrated student hostels with 1 lakh beds, with an estimated capital outlay of ₹3,200 crore.
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The Tamil Nadu government renamed the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme as the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme. The scheme will be expanded to cover students of Classes 6 to 8 in government and aided schools…
Former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scientist Mylswamy Annadurai has been appointed as the Chairman of the Curriculum Design Committee for School Education in Tamil Nadu for a three-year tenure. The…
Tamil Nadu (TN) recorded a Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of 52.3% in higher education according to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) report for 2023-24. The state surpassed the 50% enrolment mark for the…
Killai in Cuddalore district has been developed as Tamil Nadu's first fully operational Climate Resilient Village (CRV) under the Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission (TNCCM). The project was executed at a cost of ₹230.15…
Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 passed to make delayed registration more stringent
Key Updates:
- The Rajya Sabha passed the Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 by a voice vote.
- The Bill requires an order from a first-class judicial magistrate for registrations of births or deaths delayed beyond two years.
- For registrations delayed between one and two years, approval from the District Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, or an Executive Magistrate will continue to be required.
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The Lok Sabha passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 by voice vote. The amendment enhances punishment for unfair means from three to five years to five to ten years of…
The Rajya Sabha passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 on July 30, 2026. The bill prescribes imprisonment of five to ten years and a fine of up to ₹50 lakh for individuals…
The Registration of Births and Deaths Amendment Bill, 2026 proposes stricter rules for delayed registration of births and deaths. Registration delayed between one and two years will require approval from the District…
The Assam Assembly passed the Assam Land and Revenue Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The amendment restricts buying or holding land within a 5-km radius of iconic heritage institutions that are at least 250 years old.
Heatwaves and Lightning Added to NDRF Protocol
Key Updates:
- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) included heatwaves and lightning in the list of notified natural calamities under the operational guidelines for the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
- The inclusion is based on the 16th Finance Commission's recommendations for the award period 2026-31, citing increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change.
- States can now use the SDRF fund for providing relief and assistance to people affected by heatwaves and lightning.
- The previous list of notified disasters had 12 entries, including cyclone, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslides, avalanches, cloudburst, pest attack, and frost and cold waves.
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Wildfires in France's Gironde region and central Spain have forced over 300,000 people to evacuate their homes. The Gironde fire consumed more than 420 square kilometres of forest and came within 15 kilometres of…
The opening ceremony of Exercise Tiger Lightning (TL)-2026 was held at the Para Commando Brigade in Jalalabad Cantonment, Sylhet on July 19, 2026. The joint exercise involves the Bangladesh Army and the United States…
On 1 August 2026, the Godavari river was in spate and the first flood warning was issued at Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage in Dowleswaram. All crest gates of the barrage were lifted to discharge 12.37 lakh cusecs of…
India and Ethiopia signed a bilateral accession protocol in Geneva to facilitate Ethiopia's membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). The protocol was signed by Senthil Pandian C., Ambassador and Permanent…
Centre Proposes Rules for Two-Wheeled Ambulances to Boost Emergency Medical Access
Key Updates:
- The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) proposed a regulatory framework for two-wheeled road ambulances to improve emergency response times and last-mile healthcare access in rural, remote and hilly areas.
- The draft rules aim to formally recognise and regulate two-wheeled road ambulances, which are currently not a separate category under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
- MoRTH proposed adopting AIS-209 (Part 1):2026, which lays down construction and functional requirements for life-support two-wheeled road ambulances.
- All L2-category two-wheeled road ambulances manufactured on or after October 1, 2027, will be required to comply with AIS-209 (Part 1):2026.
- Emergency warning top lights fitted on such ambulances will also need to meet prescribed standards from October 1, 2027.
- State governments will be empowered to decide the operational areas for deploying these ambulances based on local requirements and geographic conditions.
- Two-wheeled road ambulances will be treated as transport vehicles and will require a certificate of fitness renewed every two years.
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The Supreme Court has directed all states and Union Territories (UTs) to fully operationalise the single emergency helpline number, 112, within three months. The unified number 112 will integrate existing emergency…
The Department of Space (DoS) issued an internal memorandum tightening rules for resignation and voluntary retirement of Group 'A' Scientific and Technical personnel at ISRO. Under the revised rules, heads of ISRO…
The ePlane Company, an Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)-incubated start-up, aims to begin commercial production of electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) air ambulances by 2028. The company…
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) issued new norms for planned re-entry of space objects on July 23. The norms mandate that any object intentionally brought back to Earth must have…
India and Uzbekistan target $3-5 billion bilateral trade in coming years
Key Updates:
- On August 3, 2026, India and Uzbekistan set ambitious targets to expand bilateral trade and investment at a business forum meeting.
- India proposed doubling bilateral trade from about $1.3 billion over the next three years.
- Uzbekistan hoped bilateral trade would reach $2 billion next year and rise to $3-5 billion in the coming years.
- The two countries identified mining, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, information technology, food processing, and the digital economy as priority sectors.
- Uzbekistan also pitched opportunities in metallurgy, chemicals, energy, automobiles, and digital infrastructure.
- Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the recently signed bilateral investment treaty would boost investor confidence.
- Goyal said a potential free trade agreement between India and Uzbekistan could be explored.
- India is already exploring a potential free trade agreement with the EAEU bloc comprising Russia, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus, and Kyrgyzstan.
- Uzbekistan's Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Laziz Kudratov, said bilateral trade grew by about 30 per cent last year to $1.3 billion for the first time.
- Kudratov said the number of foreign companies in Uzbekistan had increased five-fold and foreign direct investment had grown ten-fold since 2017.
- Goyal called for removing trade barriers and for mutual recognition of standards, approvals, testing, and certification processes.
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India and France have set a five-year target to double their annual bilateral trade from the current $16 billion to $32 billion. The two nations unveiled the India-France Innovation Roadmap 2030 to deepen cooperation in…
India and Canada are working to conclude negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of this year. The two nations have set a target to increase bilateral trade to $50 billion by…
India and New Zealand have set a target to increase trade in goods and services to ₹35,000 crore (US$4 billion) by 2030. Bilateral trade was valued at US$2 billion in 2024, with Indian exports of goods and services…
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and United States (US) Trade Representative Jamieson Greer concluded two days of negotiations in New Delhi from June 22-24. The discussions aimed to finalise the first phase of…
BEL and Esri India Sign MoU to Develop GIS and GeoAI Solutions for Defence Sector
Key Updates:
- Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Esri India Technologies Private Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Location Intelligence, and GeoAI solutions for India's defence sector.
- The MoU aims to combine BEL's expertise in defence electronics and systems integration with Esri India's capabilities in GIS, location intelligence, and GeoAI.
- The partnership will focus on timely availability and deployment of GIS-based solutions to support urgent operational requirements across India's defence initiatives.
- Esri India will provide training support to BEL to build in-house capabilities in GIS and GeoAI using its Indo ArcGIS platform.
- The MoU was exchanged between BEL's Director (Bangalore Complex) Rajnish Sharma and Esri India's Managing Director Agendra Kumar.
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French aerospace and defence company Safran Electronics & Defense and Indian Earth intelligence firm SatSure signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) solutions for the…
Birla Institute of Technology Mesra (BIT Mesra) and the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), under the Department of Space, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Ranchi to cooperate in geospatial…
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit in New Delhi. The two nations signed a pact on co-development in the defence sector, with the first project…
Punjab National Bank (PNB) and the Government of Andhra Pradesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the PNB Quantum Finance Hub at Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV). The hub is the first bank-led…
ASSOCHAM signs MoUs with Business France and IACCIA to boost trade and investment
Key Updates:
- The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) signed two MoUs with Business France and the India & Arab Countries Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (IACCIA) on August 3, 2026.
- The MoU with Business France aims to facilitate trade and investment between Indian and French businesses, including technology collaboration, joint ventures, and business delegations.
- The MoU with IACCIA focuses on promoting bilateral trade and investment between India and the Arab world, supporting business delegations, joint ventures, and technology transfers.
- The agreements were signed during the ASSOCHAM MoU Signing Ceremony in New Delhi, with senior representatives from all three organisations present.
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The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) in New Delhi. The agreement focuses on…
India and France have set a five-year target to double their annual bilateral trade from the current $16 billion to $32 billion. The two nations unveiled the India-France Innovation Roadmap 2030 to deepen cooperation in…
Adoption of India–France Innovation Roadmap 2030 to guide cooperation in technology, innovation, research and education. Creation of a Joint India–France AI Working Group focused on AI governance and responsible…
President Droupadi Murmu made a historic visit to Romania, the first by an Indian President in three decades, and signed three MoUs in science & technology, sports, and culture. India and Romania set a target to double…
Himalayan Serow Sighted in Himachal Pradesh After Two Decades
Key Updates:
- The Himalayan serow (Capricornis thar) was recorded on camera in the Dalhousie catchment forests adjoining the Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary for the first time in two decades.
- The species is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- The Himalayan serow is the state animal of Mizoram.
- The last confirmed sighting in the area was in 2005-06, and the species was believed to have gone extinct locally following an outbreak of mouth-hoof disease.
- The video documentation was captured by field staff during a routine forest patrol, providing the first confirmed visual record from the Dalhousie landscape.
- Forest officials stated that the discovery highlights the ecological richness of the Dalhousie Forest Division and reinforces the need for continued scientific monitoring and habitat protection.
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Rare Mishmi takins, a unique group of goat-antelopes, were spotted at Bakuchaang in Sikkim by staff from the Tourism and Forest departments. The species is distributed across the Eastern Himalayan landscapes of India…
A rare wild cat species known as Caracal was spotted in Kuno National Park (KNP) located in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh. The sighting of the Caracal occurred during a recent camera trap survey, marking the…
The rare Himalayan flowering plant Cyananthus hookeri has been rediscovered in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The plant belongs to the bellflower family (Campanulaceae) and was last documented in India in 1867…
Two new solitary bee species, Elaphropoda triangulata and Habropoda adi, have been discovered in Arunachal Pradesh. The species were identified by researchers from the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the…
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) develops India's first fully annotated telomere-to-telomere pigeonpea genome
Key Updates:
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) developed India's first fully annotated telomere-to-telomere (T2T) reference genome of the pigeonpea variety 'Asha'.
- The genome assembly, designated NIPB_CcT2T_4, comprises 752.65 million base pairs assembled into 92 contigs and covers all 11 chromosomes including centromeres and telomeres.
- Comprehensive genome annotation identified 36,557 genes and 48,008 messenger RNAs, with transcriptome mapping recording more than 99.9 per cent read alignment.
- The T2T genome assembly has been deposited in the global database NCBI.
- Pigeonpea, popularly known as 'Arhar' or 'Tur', is one of India's most important pulse crops and a major source of dietary protein.
- ICAR had published the world's first draft genome of pigeonpea variety 'Asha' in 2011, the first crop genome sequenced entirely in India, followed by an improved draft genome in 2017.
- The fully annotated reference genome is expected to accelerate breeding of climate-resilient, high-yielding and nutritionally enriched pigeonpea varieties and support gene discovery, pangenome analyses, molecular breeding and genome-editing research.
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The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is working on genome-editing of around 40 crop varieties across 34 of its research institutes. The goal of the initiative is to develop climate-resilient and…
Scientists at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Central Rice Research Institute developed the world's first AI-designed genome-editing tool for plants. The tool functions as a molecular scalpel to…
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) launched ‘Oilseeds Kisaan Mitra’, a WhatsApp-based artificial intelligence (AI) powered advisory service for oilseed farmers. Developed by the ICAR-Indian Institute of…
The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare unveiled the 'Viksit Krishi and Samruddh Kisan' roadmap at the 98th ICAR Foundation Day on July 17, 2026. The roadmap targets developing 100 Climate Smart Villages…
India Launches Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan
Key Updates:
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has launched the Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan to protect the species and its habitats.
- The clouded leopard is a medium-sized wild cat named after the large, cloud-shaped markings on its coat and is known for its exceptional climbing ability.
- The species inhabits dense tropical forests across Northeast India and parts of Southeast Asia and spends much of its time in trees.
- The plan identifies 14 priority conservation landscapes across Northeast India and proposes restoring forest corridors to improve habitat connectivity.
- It strengthens anti-poaching measures, expands wildlife crime prevention, and introduces standardised monitoring using camera traps, genetic studies, and environmental DNA (eDNA).
- Northeast India is described as one of the clouded leopard's most important remaining strongholds and a rich biodiversity hotspot.
- The plan promotes community-based conservation, sustainable livelihood programmes, local community involvement, and cooperation with neighbouring countries.
- As an apex forest predator, the clouded leopard's survival reflects the health of entire ecosystems, and conserving its habitat protects water sources, biodiversity, and ecologically sensitive forests.
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India launched the Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan (CAP) on International Clouded Leopard Day, observed annually on August 4. The clouded leopard is listed under Schedule I of the Wild Life Protection Act (WPA)…
Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena approved the constitution of the Snow leopard and High-Altitude Nature (SHAN) conservation society in Ladakh. SHAN will operate under the Department of Environment and Forests…
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav inaugurated the Lion Species Spotlight Programme at Gir National Park in Gujarat as a pre-summit event for the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit 2026. India is…
Saudi Arabia is set to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as its 26th member country. The IBCA was launched by India to promote coordinated global action for protecting major big cat species and their…
Chandipura Virus (CHPV) Claims 22 Children in Gujarat; Symptoms and Prevention Explained
Key Updates:
- Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a rare viral infection that causes Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), leading to brain inflammation and swelling.
- CHPV belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and primarily affects children below 15 years of age.
- CHPV was first identified in 1965 in Chandipura village in Maharashtra, India.
- CHPV is a vector-borne disease primarily transmitted by the bite of phlebotomine sandflies; certain species of mosquitoes and ticks may also contribute to transmission.
- In India, CHPV cases have been mainly reported from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh, with cases rising during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
- At least 22 children have died in Gujarat due to CHPV infection during the ongoing monsoon season, and 35 out of 184 blood samples tested positive for the virus.
- CHPV infection can progress rapidly, with severe cases showing worsening symptoms within 24 to 48 hours.
- Initial CHPV symptoms include sudden high fever, severe headache, vomiting and nausea, body aches, and extreme weakness and fatigue.
- Neurological symptoms of CHPV include seizures or convulsions, confusion, excessive drowsiness, loss of awareness, brain swelling, and coma in severe cases.
- Previous CHPV outbreaks have reported fatality rates of 50% to 75% among paediatric cases, making early diagnosis and hospitalisation critical.
- Sandflies breed in cracks in mud walls and houses, damp soil, livestock shelters, and areas with accumulated organic waste.
- CHPV is diagnosed through RT-PCR testing of blood or cerebrospinal fluid and IgM ELISA antibody tests.
- There is no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for CHPV; care focuses on intensive support, seizure control, intravenous fluids, and reducing brain swelling.
- Prevention of CHPV relies on avoiding sandfly bites using insecticide-treated nets, full-sleeved clothes, insect repellents, sealing mud-wall cracks, proper waste disposal, and insecticide sprays in affected areas.
- Following the outbreak, Gujarat's Health Department intensified surveillance, testing, and monitoring in affected regions to identify suspected infections early.
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A 43-year-old man from Kozhikode district, Kerala, has tested preliminary positive for the Nipah virus (NiV). Samples from the patient have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for confirmation.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has added the first molecular diagnostic test for the Bundibugyo Ebola virus to its Emergency Use Listing. The diagnostic test identifies the virus's genetic material from blood…
The African-origin Usutu virus was identified in blackbirds in Scotland for the first time in April. The primary vector for the Usutu virus is the brown-grey Culex pipiens mosquito, which is most active in warm…
The H5N1 strain of bird flu has been confirmed for the first time in Australia, meaning the highly contagious variant has now reached every continent. The virus was detected in a migratory seabird, a brown skua, at the…
Commemorative Postage Stamp Released for Satish Gujral's Birth Centenary
Key Updates:
- The Department of Posts released a commemorative postage stamp to mark the birth centenary of Satish Gujral.
- The stamp was unveiled by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia at Bikaner House, New Delhi.
- Satish Gujral was a Padma Vibhushan awardee and a renowned artist, architect, sculptor, muralist and writer.
- The stamp design was created by Anuj Kumar based on a proposal by Raseel Gujral Ansal.
- Satish Gujral had earlier designed commemorative stamps for the 125th anniversary of VSNL and for Financial Inclusion.
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President Droupadi Murmu conferred Padma Awards 2026 to 66 personalities at the first Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. A total of 131 Padma awards were approved for 2026, comprising five Padma…
President Droupadi Murmu to confer the Padma Awards on 65 distinguished personalities during the second Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 23. The Padma Awards are announced annually on Republic Day…
President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma awards to 65 eminent personalities during the second civil investiture ceremony held on 23 June 2026 at the Gantantra Madap of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Former Supreme Court (SC)…
Teejan Bai, a noted Pandavani exponent, passed away at the age of 70 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Raipur. Pandavani is a traditional performing art form originating in Chhattisgarh and also…
Veteran Actor Pradeep Rawat Dies at 74 After Battling Blood Cancer
Key Updates:
- Veteran actor Pradeep Rawat died at the age of 74 after battling blood cancer.
- He was known for his performances in Ghajini, Lagaan and Mahabharat.
- He had recovered from cancer nearly four years ago, but the disease returned over the past one and a half months.
- During the relapse, he was hospitalised after a sudden drop in platelet count and could not recover despite treatment.
- Doctors said blood cancer can relapse after remission because a small number of cancer cells can survive deep inside the body.
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Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran died at the age of 38 after battling Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced his passing and described him as a…
Salim Kumar, a National Award-winning Malayalam actor, passed away in Kochi on 7 June 2026, at the age of 56 after suffering a heart attack. He made his film debut in 1997 with the movie Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam and…
Veteran Tamil actor-filmmaker Bharathiraja passed away in Chennai on June 10 at the age of 84. He made his directorial debut with the film 16 Vayathinile in 1977.
K Bhagyaraj, a Tamil actor and director, passed away at the age of 73 at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai. Born as Krishnaswamy Bhagyaraj on January 7, 1953, near Gobichettipalayam.
Union Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan and Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan Get One-Year Extension
Key Updates:
- The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet approved a one-year extension for Union Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan and Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan.
- T.V. Somanathan, a 1987-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of Tamil Nadu cadre, was appointed Cabinet Secretary in August 2024, succeeding Rajiv Gauba.
- Somanathan will serve one more year beyond August 30, 2026, as Cabinet Secretary.
- Govind Mohan, a 1989-batch IAS officer of Sikkim cadre, was appointed Union Home Secretary in August 2024, succeeding Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
- Mohan's tenure as Home Secretary is extended up to August 22, 2027, or until further orders.
- Somanathan previously held the posts of Finance Secretary and Secretary in the Department of Expenditure before becoming Cabinet Secretary.
- Mohan served as Union Culture Secretary from October 2021 and had two stints in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
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The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved a one-year extension for Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri beyond July 14, 2026, extending his tenure up to July 14, 2027. Misri, a 1989-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS)…
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports constituted a Search-cum-Selection Committee for the National Sports Board. Cabinet Secretary Dr. T.V. Somanathan was appointed to lead the five-member committee.
K Rajaraman's tenure as Chairperson of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has been extended beyond July 31, 2026, until October 2028 or until further orders. He assumed charge as IFSCA…
The Joint Committee of Parliament examining the One Nation, One Election Bill was granted an extension until the end of the Winter Session. The committee is examining the Constitution One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth…
Key Updates:
- D.Y. Patil, educationist and former Governor of Bihar, Tripura and West Bengal, died at the age of 90.
- He passed away at his residence in Kolhapur.
- He founded the D Y Patil Group in 1983, which runs over 160 educational institutions.
- He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1991 for contributions to education and social service.
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Hira Singh Bisht, former Uttarakhand minister and senior Congress leader, passed away at the age of 85 due to cardiac arrest. He died on July 26, 2026, in Dehradun.
Prateek Yadav passed away at the age of 38 on May 13, 2026, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He was the son of the late Mulayam Singh Yadav, founder of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar known as the Father Emir, passed away at the age of 74 on 12 July 2026. He served as the ruler of Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and was the father of the current…
Yogesh Patel, a veteran leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), passed away at the age of 79 in Vadodara, Gujarat. He served as a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) for 36 years, winning eight consecutive elections…
Justice M.S. Liberhan Passes Away at 87
Key Updates:
- Justice Manmohan Singh Liberhan died at age 87 in Chandigarh.
- He was a former judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
- He served as Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court and the Madras High Court.
- He headed the Liberhan Commission that investigated the Babri Masjid demolition.
- The commission submitted its report after nearly 17 years.
- He was born on November 11, 1938.
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Sudhanshu Sil, a veteran leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM) and former Member of Parliament, passed away at a private hospital in Kolkata. He was 81 years old and was born on March 27, 1945.
Subhash C Kashyap, a renowned constitutional expert and former Secretary General of the Lok Sabha, passed away at the age of 97 in New Delhi. He served as the Secretary General of the seventh, eighth, and ninth Lok Sabha…
Lt. Gen. Madan Mohan Lakhera died at the age of 88 at a private hospital in Dehradun. He served as the Governor of Mizoram from 25 July 2006 to 1 September 2011.
Kyle Busch, a National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) icon, died at the age of 41 following a severe illness. He was a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, winning the title in 2015 and 2019.
