📰 Daily Briefing Monday, Feb 09

Daily Current Affairs: 9 February 2026

Analysis for 09 February 2026

Anutin Charnvirakul Wins Thailand General Election as Prime Minister

[Thailand]

Key Updates:

  • Anutin Charnvirakul and the Bhumjaithai Party secured a victory in the Thailand general election held on 8 February 2026.
  • The Bhumjaithai Party won approximately 192 seats in the 500-member House of Representatives, according to preliminary results from the Election Commission (EC).
  • Anutin Charnvirakul assumed the role of Prime Minister following the ousting of Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai party over a border crisis with Cambodia.
  • The People's Party, led by Natthaphong Rueangpanyawut, secured 117 seats and announced it would serve as the opposition.
  • A survey conducted by the National Institute for Development Administration (NIDA) correctly projected the Bhumjaithai Party as the winner of the election.
  • Voters also approved a referendum to replace the 2017 military-backed constitution by a margin of nearly two to one.
  • The Bhumjaithai Party campaign included pledges to implement a consumer subsidy programme and cancel a maritime claims agreement with Cambodia.

Similar Coverage

Aaryan Varshney becomes India’s 92nd Chess Grandmaster (Mid of January) ▼
  • Aaryan Varshney became the 92nd Indian to earn the title of chess Grandmaster (GM) on Thursday.
  • The 21-year-old Aaryan won the Andranik Margaryan Memorial title with a round to spare in Armenia, which confirmed his Grandmaster title.
  • He drew against FM Tyhran Ambartsumian in the eighth round of the competition in Armenia to secure his third and final GM norm.
  • Aaryan, who is from Delhi, is the eighth Grandmaster from the capital of India, along with Parimarjan Negi, Abhijeet Gupta, Sriram Jha, Vaibhav Suri, Sahaj Grover, Aryan Chopra, and Prithu Gupta.
Devika Sihag storms into maiden BWF Super 300 final at Thailand Masters 2026 (Start of February) ▼
  • Devika Sihag defeated fifth-seeded Huang Yu-Hsun 22-20, 21-13 in the women’s singles semifinal of the Thailand Masters 2026 in Bangkok.
  • The 20-year-old unseeded Indian will face Malaysia’s Goh Jin Wei in the summit clash.
  • The tournament carries a prize purse of USD 250,000.
Thailand dissolves House of Representatives for early-year election amid Cambodia border conflict (Mid of December) ▼
  • Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dissolved the House of Representatives after obtaining approval from King Maha Vajiralakorn, with the Royal Gazette publishing the endorsement on Friday.
  • The election must be held 45–60 days after the royal endorsement, during which Anutin remains caretaker premier with limited powers.
  • The dissolution follows a threatened no-confidence vote by the People’s Party after Bhumjaithai lawmakers backed a constitutional-amendment bill, contrary to the September agreement to hold a referendum on drafting a new constitution.
  • Thailand is engaged in large-scale combat with Cambodia over disputed border claims, with more than two dozen reported killed and hundreds of thousands displaced this week.
  • US President Donald Trump previously secured a July ceasefire by threatening trade-privilege withdrawal and has renewed peace efforts after the latest flare-up.
Republic Day Parade 2026 winners announced for Best Tableaux and Popular Choice (End of January) ▼
  • Indian Navy was adjudged Best Marching Contingent among the three Services.
  • Delhi Police was adjudged Best Marching Contingent among CAPFs/other auxiliary forces.
  • Maharashtra's tableau ‘Ganeshotsav: A Symbol of Aatmanirbharta’ was adjudged Best Tableau among States/UTs.
  • Jammu & Kashmir's tableau ‘Handicrafts and Folk Dances of Jammu & Kashmir’ was adjudged Best Tableau among States/UTs.
  • Kerala's tableau ‘Water Metro & 100% Digital Literacy: Aatmanirbhar Kerala for Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ was adjudged Best Tableau among States/UTs.
  • Ministry of Culture’s tableau ‘Vande Mataram – The Soul Cry of a Nation’ was adjudged Best Tableau among Central Ministries/Departments.
  • Central Public Works Department (CPWD) tableau ‘Vande Mataram – Commemoration of 150 Years’ received a Special Prize.
  • ‘Vande Mataram: The Eternal Resonance of India’ Dance Group received a Special Prize.
  • Assam Regiment was adjudged Best Marching Contingent among the three Services in the Popular Choice category.
  • CRPF was adjudged Best Marching Contingent among CAPFs/other auxiliary forces in the Popular Choice category.
  • Gujarat's tableau ‘Mantra of Swadeshi – Self-Reliance – Freedom: Vande Mataram’ topped the Popular Choice category on MyGov portal.
  • Uttar Pradesh's tableau ‘Culture of Bundelkhand’ ranked among the top three in the Popular Choice category on MyGov portal.
  • Rajasthan's tableau ‘Golden Touch of the Desert: Bikaner Gold Art (Usta Art)’ ranked among the top three in the Popular Choice category on MyGov portal.
  • Department of School Education & Literacy’s tableau ‘National Education Policy 2020: Rocketing Indian School Education on the Path to Viksit Bharat’ was adjudged Best Tableau among Central Ministries/Departments in the Popular Choice category.

Sanae Takaichi wins Japan general election as Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) secures supermajority.

Key Updates:

  • Sanae Takaichi is the Prime Minister of Japan and leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
  • The LDP won 316 of the 465 seats in Japan’s lower house of parliament.
  • The victory gives the LDP a supermajority, exceeding the 233 seats needed for a majority.
  • Takaichi called the snap election after three months in office to consolidate political support.
  • She has pledged to suspend the 8 percent sales tax on food to ease household burdens.
  • US President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Takaichi and announced her White House visit on March 19.
  • US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described Takaichi’s win as a 'big victory' for Japan–US relations.
  • Japan–US trade was valued at $317 billion in 2024, with around 50,000 US troops stationed in Japan.

Similar Coverage

National Conference of State Election Commissioners (SECs) to build synergy in electoral processes (Start of February) ▼
  • The Election Commission of India (ECI) will host a National Conference of the State Election Commissioners (SECs) on February 24, 2026.
  • The conference is being organised after a gap of over 25 years, with the previous meeting held in 1999.
  • Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar will chair the event, joined by Election Commissioners (ECs) Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi.
  • The conference will be attended by all SECs and the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all States and Union Territories (UTs).
  • The primary objective is to build synergy between the ECI and SECs regarding electoral processes and logistics within their respective legal frameworks.
  • State Election Commissions (SECs) are created under the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments for elections to Panchayats and Municipal Bodies.
  • Discussion topics include the recently launched ECINET digital platform, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and electoral laws on elector eligibility.
Yumnam Khemchand set to become Chief Minister of Manipur. (Start of February) ▼
  • Yumnam Khemchand was elected as the leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislative party.
  • Nemcha Kipgen is likely to become the Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur.
  • Khemchand belongs to the Meitei community and Kipgen belongs to the Kuki community.
  • The BJP has 37 MLAs in the Manipur assembly, supported by Naga People’s Front (5) and Janata Dal (United) (1).
  • Khemchand previously served as Speaker of the Manipur assembly from 2017 to 2022 and as a cabinet minister in 2022.
  • He was elected from the Singjamei constituency in the 2017 and 2022 Manipur Legislative Assembly elections.
Biswabandhu Sen passed away as Speaker of the Tripura Legislative Assembly (TLA) (End of December) ▼
  • Biswabandhu Sen, the Speaker of the Tripura Legislative Assembly (TLA), passed away at a private hospital in Bengaluru on December 26, 2025.
  • He had been undergoing medical treatment after suffering a massive cerebral stroke on August 8.
  • The Tripura government declared a three-day state mourning following the demise of the veteran leader.
  • All government offices, institutions, schools, and colleges in Tripura were ordered to remain closed on December 26, 2025.
  • He is survived by his wife, one son, and one daughter.
Bihar election results 2025: Nitish does it again; alliance returns with crushing 202 seats (Mid of November) ▼
  • The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 202 of 243 assembly seats in Bihar.
  • Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JDU secured 85 seats, helped by perfect coordination with BJP.
  • BJP emerged as the single largest party in the state for the first time.
  • The rival RJD-led Mahagathbandhan fared poorly, with RJD barely avoiding its 2010 low of 22 seats.
  • Congress won only 6 seats, continuing a pattern of poor performance.
  • CPI-ML's streak of successes since 2020 ended, with the party winning 2 seats.
  • AIMIM secured 5 seats, reflecting a Muslim desire to diversify beyond 'secular' options led by non-Muslims.
  • Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party drew a blank, proving that political consultancy success does not guarantee electoral victory.

Arjun Ram Meghwal launched 'The Medicolegal Guidebook'.

Key Updates:

  • Union minister of state for law and justice Arjun Ram Meghwal launched 'The Medicolegal Guidebook' in New Delhi.
  • The guidebook is co-authored by Deepak Singla, medical director of Maharaja Agrasen Hospital; Aarushi Singla, pediatric endocrinologist at ESIC Medical College & Hospital; senior advocate Rakesh Malhotra; and advocate Kushal Malhotra.
  • The book aims to bridge the interface between medicine and law to ensure patient safety, ethical practice, and legal compliance in healthcare.
  • The launch event was attended by senior figures from the legal and medical fraternity, including Meena Subash Gupta, Sushil Gupta, Anil Agarwal, former Supreme Court judge Justice Hima Kohli, and high court judge Justice Madhu Jain.

Similar Coverage

Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan released book 'Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi – Challenge and Response' authored by Shri Surendra Kumar Pachauri. (End of January) ▼
  • Vice President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book at the Vice President’s Enclave.
  • The book is authored by former Secretary to the Government of India Shri Surendra Kumar Pachauri.
  • The Supreme Court verdict of 2019 on Ram Janmabhoomi was described as a historic turning point by the Vice President.
  • The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust mobilised over ₹3,000 crore through a crowd-funded campaign.
  • The Dhwaja-rohan ceremony of 25 November 2025 was recalled as a deeply emotional national moment.
e-Swasthya Samvad: Strengthening Governance in Medical Education (End of December) ▼
  • The Rajasthan government has launched a new digital communication platform, 'e-Swasthya Samvad (ESS)', to improve governance, transparency and coordination in the Medical Education Department (MED).
  • The initiative has been introduced under the direction of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Medical Education Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar as part of efforts to strengthen health services through technology-driven reforms.
  • The platform would function as a dedicated digital interface connecting all stakeholders associated with medical education and health services, enabling faster decision-making and effective implementation of health programmes.
  • The interaction will be held in two phases, including an open interaction with faculty members, doctors, nursing staff, students and the public from 6 pm.
  • Medical Education Commissioner Naresh Goyal said 'e-Swasthya Samvad' will be conducted twice a week -- every Tuesday and Thursday -- through video conferencing.
  • Decisions taken during meetings will be recorded instantly, and concerned officials will be required to submit action taken reports within 72 hours.
  • The platform was launched on Dec 29, 2025, to facilitate discussions on budget announcements, implementation of health schemes, and infrastructure projects.
C P Radhakrishnan releases Hindi edition of Palanivelu GUTS (End of January) ▼
  • Vice President C P Radhakrishnan released the Hindi edition of 'Palanivelu GUTS', the autobiography of eminent surgeon C Palanivelu.
  • C Palanivelu introduced laparoscopic surgery in Coimbatore in 1991, establishing the first such centre in southern India.
  • The event was attended by Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh, Chairman of National Medical Commission Abhijat Sheth, and Chairman of Board of Governors of Inter-University Centre for Teacher Education J S Rajput.
Union Budget 2026-27: Health Sector Allocation and New Regional Medical Hubs Scheme (Start of February) ▼
  • The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has been allocated ₹1,06,530.42 crore for the 2026–27 fiscal year, marking a 10 per cent increase over the previous year.
  • The government announced a new scheme to establish five regional medical hubs in partnership with the private sector to function as integrated healthcare, education, and research complexes.
  • A dedicated allocation of ₹1,000 crore has been made for Allied Healthcare Professionals (AHPs) to add 100,000 professionals over the next five years across 10 disciplines, including Optometry, Radiology, Anaesthesia, OT technology, Applied Psychology, and Behavioural Health.
  • The allocation for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) has been increased to ₹9,500 crore from the previous ₹8,995 crore.
  • Funding for the National Health Mission (NHM) has been raised to ₹39,390 crore for the 2026–27 period, up from ₹37,100.07 crore.
  • The government plans to train 1.5 lakh caregivers in the coming year for geriatric and allied care services, covering skills such as wellness, yoga, and the operation of medical devices.
  • The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, received an increased allocation of ₹5,500.92 crore.
  • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has been allotted ₹4,821.21 crore, reflecting an increase of approximately 10 per cent.
  • A second National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS 2) is planned for North India to prioritise mental health.
  • The National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) has been earmarked ₹350 crore, while the National Tele Mental Health Programme allocation rose to ₹51 crore.

Queensland (Australia) government to ban pro-Palestinian slogan under new hate speech law.

Key Updates:

  • Queensland will introduce legislation on Tuesday to ban the pro-Palestinian slogan 'from the river to the sea'.
  • The slogan ban carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.
  • The phrase 'globalise the intifada' will also be proscribed under the same law.
  • Displaying the Hamas flag, Islamic State flag, Hezbollah emblem and Nazi symbols will attract up to two years in prison.
  • Impeding religious services will be a new offence with a three-year prison term.
  • Assaulting or threatening a religious officiant will carry a penalty increased from two to five years.
  • Intentionally damaging a place of worship will carry a maximum seven-year sentence.
  • The reforms follow the 14 December 2025 Bondi Beach attack that killed 15 people during a Hanukkah celebration.

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Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crime (Prevention) Bill, 2025 withheld by Governor (Start of February) ▼
  • Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot withheld assent to The Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crime (Prevention) Bill, 2025 and reserved it for the President’s consideration.
  • The Governor’s communication cited vague definition of hate speech, overlap with existing laws, and risk of misuse for political malice.
  • The Bill reclassifies non-cognisable and bailable offences as cognisable and non-bailable for individuals and organisations.
  • Lok Bhavan noted the Bill could grant authorities arbitrary power to prohibit speech or events likely to cause hatred.
  • Governor observed the Bill was passed without meaningful consultation with civil society, media bodies, digital rights groups or constitutional experts.
Australia's Under-16 Social Media Ban: Key Provisions and Objectives (End of November) ▼
  • The new Australian law, which takes effect on 10 December, will block under-16s from using major social media platforms.
  • The ban also applies to TikTok, YouTube, X, Reddit and several other platforms.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the measure as a “world-leading” ban intended to “let kids be kids”.
  • Australia’s e-Safety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said it was designed to protect teenagers “from pressures and risks they can be exposed to while logged in to social media accounts”.
  • Under the new law, social media platforms that fail to take “reasonable steps” to prevent under-16s from accessing their services could face fines of up to A$50 million.
  • Teenagers who believe they meet the age requirement can challenge the decision by submitting a “video selfie” for facial age estimation or by providing a government-issued ID such as a driver’s licence.
International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures observed on 4 December (Start of December) ▼
  • The International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures was observed for the first time on 4 December.
  • This day was proclaimed in June 2025 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly resolution titled “International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures.”
  • The resolution was prepared on the initiative of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations with the active participation of the Republic of Belarus.
  • The resolution was adopted with the support of 116 UN member states.
  • The Republic of Belarus is a member of the resolution’s drafting group.
  • The establishment of this international day is expected to strengthen international cooperation and solidarity among states in opposing unilateral coercive measures.
  • The Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA) published the news report.
  • BelTA’s Superposition. Parallel Worlds book won a CIS contest prize.
Punjab Assembly resolution seeks ban on Imran Khan and PTI (Start of December) ▼
  • The Punjab Assembly approved a resolution moved by PML-N lawmaker Tahir Pervaiz urging the federal government to impose a ban on the PTI founder and his political party.
  • The resolution accuses the PTI leader of making statements against the state, spreading unrest, and acting as facilitators of hostile foreign interests.
  • It calls for action under national laws against anyone involved in such activities and demands exemplary punishment for those responsible.

Poola Anthony Elected President of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI)

[Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI)]

Key Updates:

  • Cardinal Poola Anthony, the Archbishop of Hyderabad, has been elected as the new President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI).
  • He was elected during the 37th general body meeting of the CBCI held on 7 February 2026.
  • The 64-year-old is the first Dalit prelate to head the Catholic Church in India, which represents nearly 2 crore Catholics.
  • He succeeds Archbishop Andrews Thazhathu from Kerala as the president of the bishops' body.
  • Poola Anthony was appointed as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad on 19 November 2020 and was proclaimed a cardinal by Pope Francis on 27 August 2022.
  • Born on 15 November 1961 in Poluru, he was ordained as a priest on 20 February 1992 and previously served as the Bishop of Kurnool from 2008 to 2020.
  • He served as the Director of the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging from 2004 to 2008 and holds a Master’s degree in pastoral care from Loyola University, Chicago.

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Pushpinder S. Puniha appointed to Blue Ocean Corporation Advisory Board (Mid of November) ▼
  • Pushpinder S. Puniha is Chairperson of the Consultative Group on Tax Policy at NITI Aayog
  • Blue Ocean Corporation is headquartered in London and recognized as world No.1 in supply chain consulting and training
  • Sourav Ganguly stated: "Having worked with Mr. Puniha earlier at the BCCI, I know the value he brings through his expertise and professionalism"
Nivedita Dubey assumes charge as Member (HR) at Airports Authority of India (AAI). (Start of February) ▼
  • Nivedita Dubey assumed charge as Member (Human Resources) at the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
  • She became the first woman to serve on the Board of AAI.
  • Her previous role within AAI was Regional Executive Director for the Eastern Region.
  • She brings over 30 years of experience spanning airport operations, administration, and people management.
Randhir Singh to vacate Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) presidency; Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani set to succeed. (End of January) ▼
  • Randhir Singh became the first Indian elected as Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) president in September 2024 for a four-year term until 2028.
  • His presidency will end prematurely on 26 January 2026 after around 17 months due to ill-health, with a new election scheduled during the OCA General Assembly in Tashkent.
  • Qatar Olympic Committee president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani is the lone candidate and will be elected as the new OCA chief on 26 January 2026.
  • Randhir Singh, 79, had served as OCA acting president since 2021 before formally taking office in 2024.
  • He previously served as Secretary General of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) from 1987 to 2012 and was an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member from 2001 to 2014.
Chennai Port Authority chairperson Sunil Paliwal made IWAI Chairman (End of November) ▼
  • Sunil Paliwal, Chairperson of Chennai Port Authority and Kamarajar Port Ltd, has been appointed as chairman of Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
  • He will hold the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India.
  • The post of IWAI chairman has been temporarily upgraded to Secretary level for this appointment.
  • The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Department of Personnel and Training issued the notification for his appointment.
  • Paliwal succeeds Vijay Kumar at IWAI.
  • Vijay Kumar was recently made Shipping Secretary.
  • Vijay Kumar replaced TK Ramachandran, who retired, as Shipping Secretary.
  • Paliwal previously held crucial portfolios in the Tamil Nadu government, including Managing Director of Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board; Managing Director, Tamil Nadu Road Development Company Limited; and Managing Director of Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation.

India secures 2nd rank globally in LEED-certified green building space outside United States in 2025.

[United States]

Key Updates:

  • India ranked second outside the United States with 16 million gross square meters of LEED-certified space in 2025.
  • United States Green Building Council (USGBC) and Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) released the annual country rankings.
  • China led the non-US list with 26 million GSM, while Vietnam entered the top 10 for the first time.
  • Over 7,500 commercial projects worldwide achieved LEED certification in 2025, totaling more than 147 million GSM.
  • India recorded the highest growth in LEED Operations and Maintenance (O+M) certification, surpassing new and interior construction projects.
  • LEED certification in India is expanding beyond offices into industrial manufacturing, warehousing, hospitality, retail, and education sectors.

Similar Coverage

Tamil Nadu Urban Greening Policy 2026 mandates 15% green cover in ULBs (Start of February) ▼
  • Tamil Nadu government released its first Urban Greening Policy 2026 to integrate trees, urban forests, parks, wetlands and blue-green infrastructure into city planning.
  • Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) must strive to maintain at least 15% of their total municipal area under green cover.
  • Funding will be mobilised through convergence of existing schemes such as AMRUT, Smart Cities Mission and the Green Tamil Nadu Mission.
  • A state-level Urban Greening Coordination Committee chaired by the Chief Secretary will ensure convergence among departments.
  • The Municipal Administration and Water Supply department will set up a dedicated urban forest wing for greening initiatives.
  • ULBs are encouraged to adopt the 3-30-300 Urban Green Liveability Guideline and improve city biodiversity index scorecards (Singapore Index).
  • Urban local bodies may explore levying a green fee linked to building permissions and development approvals.
Responsible Nations' Index (RNI) launched on January 19, 2026 (End of January) ▼
  • Singapore ranked first and India 16th in the Responsible Nations' Index (RNI) launched by former president Ram Nath Kovind.
  • The RNI is a global evaluative framework developed by the think tank World Intellectual Foundation (WIF) in academic collaboration with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and methodological validation by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Mumbai.
  • The index is anchored in three core dimensions -- internal responsibility, environmental responsibility and external responsibility.
  • The RNI has been operationalised through seven dimensions, 15 aspects and 58 indicators.
  • Switzerland was second, Denmark third and the Central African Republic stood last on the 154-nation index.
  • Sudhanshu Mittal, Founder and Secretary, WIF, said the RNI represents a shift from power-centric assessments to responsibility-centric evaluation of nations.
  • India's neighbour Pakistan was in the 90th place, while China was ranked 68th and the US 66th, according to the RNI.
Tata Realty & Infrastructure (TRIL) and DBS Bank India sign ₹1,280 crore green loan facility (Start of December) ▼
  • Tata Realty & Infrastructure (TRIL) and DBS Bank India signed a ₹1,280 crore green loan facility.
  • DBS Bank India acted as the sole advisor and green loan coordinator for the transaction.
  • A special purpose vehicle (SPV) developing Intellion Park, Gurugram, availed the facility.
  • The real estate sector accounts for nearly 40% of global energy-related CO₂ emissions.
  • India’s property market saw 89 million sq ft of office leasing in 2024.
  • India’s property market experienced a 35% surge in FDI inflows in Q1 2025.
  • Climate-first private credit is projected to deliver 15–20% risk-adjusted returns.
Commitment to Development Index 2025: Top 10 countries and where does India rank? (End of November) ▼
  • Sweden retains the top position in CDI 2025, ranking first in environment, second in development finance, and fourth in health.
  • Germany and Norway follow Sweden in second and third place respectively.
  • Finland and the United Kingdom round out the top five.
  • Luxembourg improved the most, jumping four ranks to tenth overall.
  • The Netherlands dropped out of the top 10, falling five ranks to eleventh.
  • The United States and China rank 28th and 34th respectively.
  • India ranks 36th overall, with its strongest performance in environment where it ranks 8th.
  • India ranks last in trade and development finance, and among the worst six in investment, migration, and security.

India and United States (US) reach framework for first phase of bilateral trade agreement

[United States]

Key Updates:

  • India and the United States (US) have announced a framework for the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement to reduce import duties on various goods.
  • The legal agreement is expected to be signed by mid-March, with duty concessions taking effect on the day of implementation.
  • India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on US industrial goods and agricultural products including dried distillers' grains, red sorghum, tree nuts, soybean oil, wine, and spirits.
  • Specific US goods such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios, lentils, high-end cars, and motorcycles will enjoy duty concessions in India.
  • Duty benefits will be extended to American medical devices including pacemakers, X-ray valves, diagnostic reagents, hearing aids, and artificial joints.
  • American aircraft, semiconductor chips, and high-quality machinery will be allowed into India under the pact.
  • India has fixed minimum import prices on products like apples to protect the interests of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and farmers.
  • Indian exports including spices, tea, coffee, cashew, mango, pineapple, and cocoa products will attract zero reciprocal tariffs in the US market.
  • The agreement aims to address non-tariff barriers affecting Information and Communication Technology (ICT) goods and medical devices.

Similar Coverage

India and United States reach framework for first-phase bilateral trade agreement (Start of February) ▼
  • India and the United States announced a framework for the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement on Saturday.
  • The framework will be converted into a legal agreement expected to be signed by mid-March.
  • India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of American food and agricultural products including dried distillers' grains, red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits.
  • India will grant duty concessions on US goods such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios, some lentils, high-end cars and motorcycles.
  • India agreed to address long-standing barriers to trade in US medical devices and eliminate restrictive import licensing procedures for US Information and Communication Technology (ICT) goods.
  • Minimum import prices have been fixed on certain products like apples to protect interests of MSMEs and farmers.
  • India will eliminate import duties on certain US goods on the day the agreement comes into force, while duties on other items may be phased out over time.
  • India will extend duty benefits on certain American medicines for neuro, heart and diabetes, cosmetics, medical devices, X-ray valves, diagnostic reagents, pacemakers, imaging apparatus, hearing aid, and artificial joints.
  • India will allow American aircraft, semiconductor chips, and high quality machinery into its market.
  • India's exports to the US including spices, tea, coffee, copra, coconut oil, areca nut, cashew, Brazil nut, chestnut, avocado, banana, guava, mango, kiwi, papaya, pineapple, shiitake mushroom, vegetable planting material and saplings, roots and tubers such as taro, barley, canary seeds, bakery goods, cocoa and cocoa products, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and fruit jams and pastes will attract zero reciprocal tariffs in the American market.
United States (US) cuts reciprocal tariff on Indian goods from 25% to 18%. (Start of February) ▼
  • The United States (US) reduced the reciprocal tariff on imports from India from 25% to 18% effective immediately.
  • India agreed to cut its tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US goods to zero.
  • US President Donald Trump announced the trade deal after a phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • India committed to stop buying Russian oil and increase purchases from the United States and potentially Venezuela.
  • The White House stated the additional 25% tariff imposed over Russian oil purchases will be dropped.
  • WTI crude oil futures fell more than 4.5% to around $62.2 a barrel on Monday.
  • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is visiting Washington for discussions on critical minerals.
  • Union Minister Piyush Goyal stated negotiations for closing the trade deal are progressing quickly.
India-New Zealand FTA Finalised with Dairy Sector Excluded (End of December) ▼
  • India and New Zealand have concluded negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), likely to be signed within three months and implemented next year.
  • India will not open up its dairy sector under any free trade agreement, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal asserted.
  • India has sectors from duty cuts include dairy products, most animal products, vegetables & pulses, sugar, fats & oils, copper, aluminium, arms & ammunition, and gems & jewellery.
  • India has provided limited market access for select agri-products using Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQ) and Minimum Import Price (MIP) safeguards.
  • The India-New Zealand FTA offers India duty-free access to New Zealand’s market, while New Zealand will benefit from reduced tariffs on 95% of its exports.
  • Discussions for the long-pending India-US trade deal are in an 'advanced stage,' though access to agriculture remains a point of contention.
  • The FTA reflects calibrated trade liberalisation, balancing trade growth with domestic sector protection.
  • New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters termed the deal a 'low-quality' deal and announced that his New Zealand First party would oppose it in Parliament.
Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) secures 100% duty-free access for Indian exports to Australia (End of December) ▼
  • Australia will provide duty-free access to 100% of its tariff lines for Indian exports starting Jan 1, 2026, under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA).
  • India's exports to Australia grew by 8% in 2024-25, with significant gains in manufacturing, chemicals, textiles, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum products.
  • Gems and jewellery exports to Australia recorded a growth of 16% during the April-Nov 2025 period.
  • Agri-exports witnessed broad-based growth in categories including fruits, vegetables, marine products, spices, and coffee.
  • The ECTA, which came into force on Dec 29, 2022, serves as the foundation for ongoing negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).

IIT Madras and Unicorn India Ventures launch Rs 600-crore deeptech fund with Rs 400-crore greenshoe option

[IIT Madras]

Key Updates:

  • IIT Madras and Unicorn India Ventures have launched the IITM Unicorn Frontier Fund I with a corpus of Rs 600 crore and an additional Rs 400 crore greenshoe option.
  • The fund will invest Rs 8-10 crore each in over 25 early-stage, IP-led deeptech startups.
  • Target sectors include robotics, space technology, defence tech, semiconductors, and medical technology.
  • Most investments will target startups at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3-4, with some follow-on backing up to TRL 7-9.
  • The 10-year fund, with a two-year extension option, will deploy around 60% of the corpus for initial portfolio and 40% for follow-on rounds.
  • A large portion of investments will focus on startups emerging from the IIT Madras ecosystem, including those incubated at the IIT Madras Research Park and the IIT Madras Incubation Cell.

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Galgotias University Inaugurates IIT Mandi Catalyst Satellite Centre to Boost Deep-Tech Startups (Mid of January) ▼
  • The centre aims to support early-stage startups, promote deep-tech innovation, and bridge the gap between research and real-world application.
  • Two strategic MoUs were signed—between Galgotias University and the National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, and between Galgotias University and Jharkhand University of Technology, Ranchi—for joint research, faculty and student exchange, co-creation of deep-tech startups, shared labs, and incubation programmes.
  • The collaborations are expected to strengthen the innovation pipeline by translating academic research into market-ready solutions, enhancing funding access, and creating nationwide pathways for student entrepreneurs and startups.
Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE) launches Y-Point Venture Capital Fund (Mid of December) ▼
  • SINE, IIT Bombay's umbrella organisation, launched India's first deep tech venture capital fund, Y-Point Venture Capital Fund, worth Rs 250 crore.
  • The fund will invest in deep tech startups emerging from IIT Bombay and other premier academic and research institutes.
  • It will invest in pre-seed and seed stages across 25-30 startups with a maximum ticket size of Rs 15 crore.
  • The fund will strategically invest in companies building products backed by fundamental research, with a keen focus on high-impact sectors including Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Computing, Advanced Manufacturing, Advanced Materials, Nuclear Technology, Space and Defence Technology, Climate and CleanTech and Life Sciences and Healthcare.
S Jaishankar inaugurates IITM Global Research Foundation (Start of January) ▼
  • S Jaishankar launched the IITM Global Research Foundation, positioning Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) as the world’s first multinational university.
  • He inaugurated the IITM Festival Fortnight, including the Open House, Shaastra technical festival, and Saarang cultural festival.
  • IIT Madras signed memoranda of understanding with partners in the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Germany, Dubai, Asia-Pacific, and under the India-for-Global initiative.
IIT Madras launches IITM Global Research Foundation to become world’s first multinational university (Start of January) ▼
  • IIT Madras launched the IITM Global Research Foundation aimed at positioning the institute as the world’s first multinational university.
  • The initiative will operate through four pillars: technology transfer to global markets, joint international research projects, overseas business opportunities for IIT Madras startups, and attracting foreign investment into the institute’s innovation ecosystem.
  • Initial centres will be set up in the US, Dubai, Malaysia and Germany, with plans for expansion.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) keeps repo rate at 5.25% and caps fraud-hit customer compensation at ₹25,000 or 85% of amount

[Reserve Bank of India (RBI)]

Key Updates:

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% after the sixth bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee meeting of FY26 concluded on 4 February.
  • The policy stance remains 'neutral'.
  • Since February 2025 the RBI has cumulatively cut the repo rate by 125 basis points.
  • The Standing Deposit Facility rate stays at 5%, while the Marginal Standing Facility rate and Bank Rate remain at 5.5%.
  • Consumer price inflation stood at 1.33% year-on-year in December 2025 (provisional).
  • Fraud-hit bank customers will be compensated up to ₹25,000 or 85% of the lost amount, whichever is lower.

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Reserve Bank of India (RBI) keeps repo rate unchanged at 5.25% and projects 7.4% GDP growth for FY26. (Start of February) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%.
  • RBI retained the monetary policy stance at "neutral".
  • RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the MPC met on 4th, 5th and today to deliberate and decide on policy repo rate.
  • RBI set its real growth expectation for 2025-26 at 7.4%.
  • RBI raised its inflation forecast for Q1 and Q2 of FY27 to 4% and 4.2%, respectively.
  • RBI sold $30 billion from its foreign exchange reserves between September and November.
  • The benchmark 10-year yield has barely fallen over the past year despite large rate cuts.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cuts repo rate by 25 bps to 5.25% and projects FY26 inflation at 2%. (Start of December) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra announces a 25 basis points reduction in the repo rate to 5.25%.
  • The standing deposit facility rate now stands at 5.0%, and the marginal standing facility and bank rate at 5.5%.
  • RBI retains the neutral policy stance with future moves dependent on inflation trajectory, growth, and global risks.
  • RBI projects CPI inflation for FY26 at 2%, with Q3 at 0.6% and Q4 at 2.9%.
  • RBI revises FY26 real GDP growth forecast upward to 7.3%, with Q3 at 7% and Q4 at 6.5%.
  • RBI announces ₹1 lakh crore in OMO purchases and a $5 billion dollar-rupee swap in December to augment liquidity.
  • India’s forex reserves stand at USD 686 billion, providing more than 11 months of import cover.
  • The 10-year bond yield drops nearly 5 basis points to 6.4581% post-policy announcement.
  • RBI launches a two-month nationwide customer grievance redressal campaign starting January 1, 2026, to clear pending Ombudsman grievances.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Reduces Repo Rate to 5.25 Percent (Start of December) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) delivered a 25-basis-point reduction in the repo rate, bringing it down to 5.25 percent.
  • The central bank cut policy rates by a cumulative 125 basis points during 2025.
  • Average headline inflation for Q2:2025-26 was 1.7 percent, breaching the lower tolerance threshold of 2 percent.
  • Inflation dipped to 0.3 percent in October 2025.
  • Real GDP growth accelerated to 8.2 percent in Q2.
  • Inflation was 2.2 percent and growth was 8.0 percent in H1:2025-26.
  • The MPC slashed the inflation aim by 60 basis points to 2 percent.
  • The central bank raised the FY26 growth forecast to 7.3 percent.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) highlights strengthening economic momentum and record low inflation (End of November) ▼
  • India’s economy gathered further pace in October.
  • Demand conditions exhibited signs of improvement with the revival of urban demand and continued strength in rural demand.
  • Manufacturing and services activity showed further resilience.
  • Digital payments moderated in both value and volume in October 2025.
  • Headline inflation plunged to its lowest level in the current CPI series (2012 base year).
  • Retail inflation fell to 0.3 per cent in October from 1.4 per cent in September.
  • Fuel and light inflation remained steady at 2.0 per cent in October.
  • Core inflation moderated to 4.3 per cent in October from 4.4 per cent in September.
  • The core basket, excluding precious metals, posted a 0.1 per cent month-on-month decline.
  • Macroeconomic policy measures undertaken in 2025 are expected to reinforce a positive investment cycle and strengthen long-term growth.
  • Inflation moderated to a historic low and remained well below the target rate.
  • International uncertainty remains elevated.

Sharda River Corridor Project launched in Uttarakhand with ₹3,300 Crore Investment

[Uttarakhand]

Key Updates:

  • Chief Minister (CM) Pushkar Singh Dhami laid the foundation stone for the Sharda river corridor project at Tanakpur in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand.
  • The project involves a total proposed investment of ₹3,300 crore and will cover an area of nearly 200 sq km in the Champawat district.
  • The first phase of the project includes the redevelopment of Sharda Ghat at a cost of ₹10.7 crore and the Tanakpur city drainage system costing ₹66 crore.
  • Infrastructure developments under the first phase also include a helipad at Chuka and a multi-storey parking facility.
  • The corridor aims to promote adventure tourism through facilities for river rafting on the Sharda river and paragliding.
  • The state government plans to extend the Purnagiri mela beyond its current three-month schedule to attract visitors throughout the year.
  • The project focuses on the conservation and development of cultural heritage sites, including temples at Devidhura, Bageshwar, Jageshwar, Patal Bhuvaneshwar, and the Goljyu temple in Champawat.

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Bembla River Project approved with Rs4,775 crore outlay (Mid of January) ▼
  • The Maharashtra cabinet approved Rs4,775 crore for the completion of the long-pending Bembla river project in Yavatmal district.
  • Once completed, the scheme is expected to bring irrigation to 58,768ha of cultivable land across Ner, Babhulgaon, Kalamb, Ralegaon and Maregaon talukas of Yavatmal district.
  • An allocation of Rs89.32 crore was approved for the rehabilitation of Mouza Dhamak village in Amravati district.
Raj Unnati Initiative: Rajasthan CM Reviews Projects and Schemes Worth ₹2,000 Crore (End of January) ▼
  • Chief Minister (CM) Bhajanlal Sharma chaired the first meeting of the Raj Unnati initiative to review seven projects and two schemes involving an estimated expenditure of ₹2,000 crore.
  • The CM directed the implementation of a cashless alternative model for the PM Suryaghar 150 Units Free Electricity Scheme (PM Suryaghar) to accelerate rooftop solar installations.
  • Instructions were issued to complete the annual verification of beneficiaries under special disability pensions and the Palanhaar Scheme to release pending payments.
  • Infrastructure projects reviewed include the Hira Pura Bus Terminal in Jaipur, land acquisition for the Ajmer–Chanderia broad-gauge railway doubling project, and the establishment of girls’ military schools.
  • The review encompassed the development of solid waste processing plants, faecal sludge treatment plants, and sports and health infrastructure.
  • The CM mandated the use of the Rajasthan Sampark Helpline for verifying grievance redressal and ordered the replacement of burnt or faulty transformers within a prescribed time frame.
  • District Collectors were instructed to expedite land allotment for development projects and ensure tenders are issued promptly after allocation.
Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal inaugurates commercial operation of Unit-2 of Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (End of December) ▼
  • The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project is India’s largest hydropower project with a total capacity of 2000 MW, comprising eight units of 250 MW each.
  • The project is designed as a Run-of-the-River scheme with small pondage, utilizing eight Head Race Tunnels (HRTs) to generate 7,422 million units (MU) of renewable electricity annually.
  • The infrastructure features a 116-metre-high concrete gravity dam, which is the largest dam in North-East India.
  • The project incorporates technical milestones including India’s heaviest hydro generator rotors, largest stators, and the first-ever use of Rotec’s Tower Belt for dam concreting in the country.
  • It provides flood moderation with a 442 million cubic metre flood cushion and a gross reservoir storage of 1,365 million cubic metres at Full Reservoir Level (FRL).
  • NHPC Limited (NHPC) has implemented riverbank protection and erosion control measures extending up to 60 km downstream with an investment of approximately ₹522 crore.
  • The project will provide free power allocations to Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, with the North-East region receiving a total of 1,000 MW.
Kamala Hydroelectric Project Approved with ₹26,070 Crore Outlay (Start of January) ▼
  • The Public Investment Board (PIB) approved the ₹26,070-crore, 1,720 MW Kamala hydroelectric project in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • The project will be implemented on a build-own-operate-transfer basis through a joint venture company, with NHPC (NHPC) holding 74% equity and the government of Arunachal Pradesh holding 26%.
  • The project is expected to generate nearly 6,870 million units of green energy annually and provide flood relief in the Brahmaputra valley.
  • The central government will provide grants of ₹1,340 crore for enabling infrastructure and ₹4,744 crore for the flood moderation component.
  • The project involves the construction of a 216-metre-high concrete gravity dam and an underground powerhouse on the Kamala River with a scheduled completion period of 96 months.
  • The project is estimated to have a levelised tariff of ₹5.97 per unit and will generate approximately 300 direct jobs and 2,500 contract jobs during peak construction.

Union minister announces comprehensive development of Kondaveedu Fort

Key Updates:

  • The Union minister of state recently announced plans for the comprehensive development of the historic Kondaveedu Fort.
  • Kondaveedu Fort is located at Kondaveedu village in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh.
  • The fort is spread across a range of hills at around 1,050 feet elevation and is the largest hill fort in present Andhra Pradesh.
  • It was constructed during the time of the Telugu Chodas, strengthened by the Kakatiyas, and occupied by Prolaya Vema Reddy who shifted his capital from Addanki to Kondaveedu in 1323 AD.
  • The fort was later taken over by the Gajpathis of Orissa and ravaged by the Bahmani Sultans in 1458.
  • It came under the control of the Vijayanagara Empire, the Golconda Sultanate, the Mughals, the French, and the British.
  • The architecture displays a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles and was mainly constructed with granite stones and lime mortar.
  • The fort features 23 bastions connected by defensive walls and two main entrances called Kolepalli Darwaza and Nadella Darwaza.
  • Inside the fort are ruins of temples, pillared halls, granaries, water tanks, and a mosque.
  • The fort is known for its ancient water conservation system with several ponds supplying water to inhabitants.
  • Recent archaeological findings include Buddhist stupa remains dating back to the 1st or 2nd century CE.

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University Townships and Girls' Hostels: Five educational zones and district-level accommodation announced (Start of February) ▼
  • Union Finance Minister (FM) Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of five university townships along large industrial and logistic corridors in the Union Budget 2026-27.
  • The townships will physically integrate universities, colleges, research centres, skill centres, and residential complexes into a single ecosystem.
  • The government will assist states via an obstacle road to develop these educational zones to minimize fragmentation between academic study and practical employment.
  • The Budget proposes the introduction of girls' hostels in all districts of the country to be financed through the Viability Gap Fund (VGF).
  • The township programme is aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) objectives of multidisciplinary learning, skill development, and gender inclusion.
  • These zones are intended to improve local economies and build innovation clusters by co-locating industries with higher education and research institutions.
  • The government has set the total capital expenditure target for the Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27) at ₹12.2 lakh crore.
Odisha Integrated Secretariat & Assembly Complex: Rs 3,623 crore outlay for 50-year administrative needs (Mid of January) ▼
  • Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi laid the foundation for a Rs 3,623 crore integrated Lok Seva Bhawan and assembly complex spread over 71 acres.
  • The complex is designed to meet the state’s administrative and legislative needs for the next 50 years, anticipating an increase in assembly seats from 147 to about 196 after delimitation.
  • The new assembly hall will have seating capacity for 300 members and include basement parking, modern amenities and advanced security systems.
Tidco to set up space propellant park near Isro launch centre in Kulasekarapattinam (Mid of November) ▼
  • The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (Tidco) has earmarked around 3,000 acres of land in Kulasekarapattinam and surrounding areas in Tuticorin district for the development of aerospace-related industries.
  • The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is developing a launchpad in Kulasekarapattinam.
  • Tidco is going to set up a space propellant park at least 25 km away from Isro's launch centre.
  • The new site in Kulasekarapattinam is uniquely strategic for Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) launches, as it allows for a direct southward trajectory over the sea, reducing the fuel-intensive 'dogleg' manoeuvre required for launches from the existing Sriharikota site.
  • Launches from Kulasekarapattinam are expected to be 30% cheaper than those from Sriharikota.
  • Adjacent to the Isro facility, the state is developing two specialised industrial parks -- one for propellant manufacturing and another for general space industries -- including a common facility centre with a sanctioned Rs 100crore budget.
  • 2,000 acres of land have been earmarked for the propellant park and 1,000 acres for the common facility centre at Allikulam in Tuticorin district.
Karnataka to notify 44 temples and wells in Lakkundi as State-protected monuments (End of January) ▼
  • Tourism Minister HK Patil announced that eight more temples and stepwells in Lakkundi will be notified as State-protected monuments by end-February, raising the total protected sites to 44.
  • The Lakkundi Heritage Area Development Authority has been directed to submit a proposal within a month to include another 20 temples and wells under protection.
  • Special excavation drives will begin by March to identify and restore buried temples, with public cooperation sought through compensation or mutual consent.
  • Government sanctioned Rs 1.65 crore for an open-air museum in Lakkundi; land registration to finish before Republic Day.
  • Rs 10 crore released for comprehensive development of five selected temples and one ancient well; work orders to be issued in February.
  • Prajwal Ritti, who handed over a recent gold hoard found in Lakkundi, will receive government employment and a house; official orders to be issued on Republic Day.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: Government proposes Shipki La Pass as additional pilgrimage route

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in dialogue with China to explore opening the Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh as an additional route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
  • The MEA successfully organised the pilgrimage between June and August 2025 through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim.
  • The programme is conducted in coordination with the state governments of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
  • The yatra is managed on a self-financing basis, providing pilgrims with transportation, accommodation, food, medical tests, and guides.
  • Safety protocols for the pilgrimage include provisions for airlifting pilgrims by helicopter on the Indian side in the event of medical emergencies.
  • The pilgrimage is of spiritual significance to followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.

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Kamakhya Ropeway Project: ₹213.24 Crore for Guwahati Pilgrim Mobility (Start of February) ▼
  • The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) proposed a ₹213.24 crore ropeway to connect Kamakhya Railway Station with Kamakhya Temple atop Nilachal Hill in Guwahati.
  • The 1.43-kilometre ropeway will cut travel time from 20 minutes to six minutes.
  • It will use 18 modern gondolas to ferry 16,500 passengers.
  • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the project aligns with the ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ theme to boost sacred journeys.
India flags off INS Sagardhwani for Sagar Maitri V oceanographic mission (End of January) ▼
  • INS Sagardhwani, India's oceanographic research vessel under the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL) of DRDO, was flagged off for the fifth edition of the Sagar Maitri (SM-5) initiative from Southern Naval Command, Kochi.
  • Sagar Maitri is a flagship collaborative initiative of the Indian Navy and DRDO, aligned with the Government of India's vision of 'Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR)'.
  • The initiative seeks to build sustained scientific collaboration with eight Indian Ocean Rim countries: Oman, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Myanmar.
  • Under the Sagar Maitri programme, INS Sagardhwani will retrace the historic routes of INS Kistna, which participated in the International Indian Ocean Expedition during 1962-65.
  • The ongoing mission marks the launch of collaborative oceanographic studies with the Maldives, enabling joint research and professional exchanges among scientists from IOR nations.
Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), and port authorities form Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL) with ₹15,000 crore joint funding. (Start of February) ▼
  • Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA), Chennai Port Authority, and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) signed an agreement on Tuesday to form Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL).
  • The agreement provides for joint funding of up to ₹15,000 crore for eligible projects aimed at port capacity expansion under the Sagarmala Programme and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
  • India will place orders for 15 domestically manufactured container vessels through BCSL during fiscal 2026-27 as part of a strategy to procure 51 vessels in the next five years under phase one.
  • The initiative is aligned with the Container Manufacturing Assistance Scheme (CMAS) announced in Union Budget 2026-27.
Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu confirms new spaceport at Hope Island for private launch missions (End of January) ▼
  • The new spaceport at Hope Island is expected to primarily support private launch providers, adding to India’s expanding launch infrastructure.
  • India will have three spaceports: the existing Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) at Sriharikota, the upcoming SSLV Launch Complex at Kulasekharapatnam, and the proposed Hope Island facility.
  • The Hope Island spaceport is being planned with commercial launches in mind, complementing ISRO’s existing facilities.
  • Launch sites closer to the equator benefit from Earth’s rotation, reducing fuel requirements for eastward launches.
  • Launches into polar orbits from Sriharikota require a ‘dog-leg’ manoeuvre to avoid flying over Sri Lanka, costing energy—especially significant for smaller rockets like SSLV, Vikram-1, and Agnibaan.
  • ISRO is building the SSLV launch complex at Kulasekharapatnam, expected to be ready by 2027, to focus on polar orbit missions and support both ISRO and private players.

Padhai with AI App Launched to Provide Digital Learning for Competitive Exams

Key Updates:

  • Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Padhai with AI app, an initiative of the Bilaspur district administration.
  • The AI-based digital learning platform is designed for students in Bilaspur district preparing for various competitive examinations.
  • The initiative ensures a fully digital learning system and provides continuous academic counselling to students.
  • The programme is supported by National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) to provide technology-based and quality educational facilities.
  • The Himachal Pradesh government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with M/s Geotropy India Pvt. Ltd. for geothermal energy exploration.
  • The MoU aims to harness green energy sources to transition Himachal Pradesh into a Green Energy State.
  • The agreement was signed by the Chief Engineer of the Directorate of Energy, D.P. Gupt, and the Chairperson of Iceland-based GEOTROPY ehf, Tomos Otto Hansson.
  • The Ambassador of Iceland to India, Benedikt Hoskuldsson, and Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi were present during the signing of the agreement.

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Google, MSDE, and CCSU collaborate to establish AI-enabled university in India (End of January) ▼
  • The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), and Google announced a collaboration to establish an AI-enabled university in India.
  • A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Google, MSDE, and CCSU to support capacity building and AI-focused education initiatives during the AI Impact Summit 2026.
  • Google introduced AI-powered Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main practice tests through its Gemini AI platform, allowing students to personalise difficulty levels and receive interactive explanations.
  • The Gemini AI Academy was launched to assist educators in creating lesson plans and quizzes, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
  • Google is deploying SynthID to identify AI-generated content and integrating Gemini into Google Classroom to provide AI-assisted feedback and usage insights.
  • Google Workspace Studio was introduced to allow the creation of no-code AI agents for classroom and administrative workflows.
  • Wadhwani AI, supported by Google.org, announced an expansion of its AI-for-Education initiatives to reach 75 million students and 1.8 million educators by December 2027.
Madhya Pradesh and Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD) Partner for Multilingual AI-Driven Governance (Mid of January) ▼
  • The Government of Madhya Pradesh and the Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enable multilingual digital governance.
  • Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav announced that Madhya Pradesh will soon introduce a State AI Policy in mission mode, aimed at accelerating responsible and inclusive AI adoption across departments.
  • The MoU formalises the integration of BHASHINI’s language technologies, translation APIs and AI-powered language tools across state government digital platforms to ensure wider and more equitable access to public services in multiple Indian languages.
  • The partnership aims to support the deployment of voice-first and multilingual AI solutions across the digital governance ecosystem of Madhya Pradesh to strengthen accessibility and last-mile service delivery.
  • The collaboration was announced during the Madhya Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026 held in Bhopal on 15-01-2026.
VijAIpatha Labs launched to democratise AI, STEM and Robotics education in Karnataka government schools (End of December) ▼
  • Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched Cyient AI Labs (CyAILS) — 'VijAIpatha' — to provide Artificial Intelligence, STEM and Robotics education in government schools.
  • Under the pilot phase, five world-class AI, STEM and Robotics laboratories are being established in government schools, starting with a girl's government school in Hosapete taluk.
  • Each lab will be equipped with high-performance computers, AI-ready software, robotics kits, IoT devices, sensors and secure broadband connectivity.
  • The programme integrates CBSE's AI curriculum and is aligned with NEP 2020, Digital India and the mission of Viksit Bharat 2047.
  • The initiative targets rural and semi-urban areas, aiming to build early digital fluency, computational thinking and innovation capacity among students.
  • It will benefit over 2,000 students and train more than 200 teachers, serving as a scalable CSR model for national AI education rollout.
YUVA AI for ALL foundational course launched to equip 10 million citizens with essential AI skills (Start of January) ▼
  • Simplilearn has teamed up with the IndiaAI Mission, operating under India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, to launch the national 'YUVA AI for ALL' foundational course.
  • This collaborative effort endeavors to foster AI literacy across India, targeting 10 million citizens for vital AI education.
  • The educational program is free and widely accessible, seeking to democratize AI knowledge.

India–Netherlands Hydrogen Fellowship Programme and University of Groningen–19 IITs MoU launched

[Netherlands, University of Groningen]

Key Updates:

  • Department of Science and Technology (DST) released the Scheme Guidelines and Call for Proposals for the India–Netherlands Hydrogen Fellowship Programme.
  • The fellowship is open to Indian doctoral researchers, postdoctoral scholars and faculty members across institutions.
  • University of Groningen signed an MoU with 19 Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) for cooperation in hydrogen and green energy research.
  • The MoU enables faculty and student exchange, joint research programmes and knowledge sharing without automatic financial commitments.
  • The initiatives support India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, Energy Independence 2047 vision and Net-Zero 2070 objectives.

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Kerala HVIC Foundation and Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) sign MoA for ₹8.7 crore hydrogen bus project (Start of February) ▼
  • The Kerala HVIC Foundation and Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the procurement and operation of three hydrogen-powered buses.
  • The project has a total outlay of ₹8.7 crore and is part of the Kerala Hydrogen Valley initiative.
  • The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is supporting the development of Hydrogen Valley Innovation Clusters (HVIC) across India under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
  • Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology (ANERT) is the state nodal agency for renewable energy and green hydrogen leading the Kerala HVIC initiative.
  • The hydrogen valley is being developed in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram and includes initiatives such as hydrogen-powered water transport and biogenic hydrogen production.
  • CIAL has commissioned South India’s first hydrogen refuelling station in collaboration with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) to support the vehicles.
Assam Petro-Chemicals Ltd (APL) and Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) sign MoU for ₹1,200 Crore e-Methanol plant (End of January) ▼
  • Assam Petro-Chemicals Ltd (APL) and Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a 150 Tonnes Per Day (TPD) e-Methanol plant at Kandla Port in Gujarat.
  • The project involves a capital investment of more than ₹1,200 crores and is expected to generate approximately 3,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
  • Under the agreement, DPA will provide pipeline connectivity, storage, and fuel-handling infrastructure, while APL will establish the green methanol production facility within the port area.
  • The plant will produce e-methanol using green hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide powered by renewable electricity to support India’s Maritime Decarbonisation roadmap.
  • Kandla Port is being developed as a Green Hydrogen Hub under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to produce and export 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen over the next 5 to 6 years.
  • The facility is intended to position Kandla Port as a major green fuel supply point for international maritime trade routes, including the Singapore–Rotterdam corridor.
  • The initiative contributes to India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
JSW Energy commissions India's largest green hydrogen plant in Karnataka under PLI scheme (Mid of November) ▼
  • JSW Energy Limited has commissioned its first green hydrogen plant at Vijayanagar in Karnataka.
  • The plant marks the start of commercial operations under the Government of India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme – Tranche I.
  • The company stated the facility is India’s largest green hydrogen plant.
  • Located next to the JSW Steel facility, the plant will supply green hydrogen directly to JSW Steel’s Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) unit for low-carbon steel production.
  • Under a seven-year offtake agreement with JSW Steel Ltd, the plant will deliver 3,800 tonnes per annum (TPA) of green hydrogen and 30,000 TPA of green oxygen.
  • The facility is part of JSW Energy’s 6,800 TPA allocation under the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme managed by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).
  • JSW Energy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with JSW Steel to gradually scale up supply to 85,000–90,000 TPA of green hydrogen and 720,000 TPA of green oxygen by 2030.
  • These developments align with India’s plan to achieve around 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of green hydrogen production by 2030.
Sarbananda Sonowal flags off India's first indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell vessel (Mid of December) ▼
  • Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off India's first indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell vessel in Varanasi.
  • The hydrogen-powered vessel reflects India's growing technological capabilities and its commitment to sustainable energy.
  • Hydrogen engines are an emerging technology offering clean, sustainable energy with near-zero emissions.
  • Research and testing are still underway before full-scale commercial adoption of hydrogen engines.
  • India has now joined the list of countries such as China, Norway, the Netherlands, and Japan that operate hydrogen-powered vessels.
  • The initiative aligns with long-term strategic frameworks, including the Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030) and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 (MAKV 2047), which outline the roadmap for greener transport, smart infrastructure, and increased use of alternative fuels on inland waterways.

Free Online Coaching Initiative by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) for 5,000 candidates annually

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) signed an MoU with Physics Wallah (PW) Foundation to deliver free online coaching.
  • The scheme covers Civil Services Examination, Staff Selection Commission Examination and Banking Examinations.
  • 5,000 Scheduled Caste, Other Backward Class and Pradhan Mantri CARES for Children Scheme beneficiaries will be selected each year through a merit-based online portal.
  • Selected candidates receive live and recorded classes, test series, previous year question papers, study material, mentorship, doubt-solving support and counselling.
  • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has not signed any similar MoU for Scheduled Tribe students.

Similar Coverage

Skills Accelerator MoU to bridge workforce skill gaps (End of January) ▼
  • Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed an MoU with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to launch and implement a Skills Accelerator in India.
  • The Accelerator is a multistakeholder platform aimed at identifying, scaling, and accelerating innovative solutions and public–private partnerships to address critical skills gaps in the workforce.
  • It will strengthen India’s technical and vocational education and training ecosystem by aligning skilling initiatives with industry and global economy demands.
SHAKTI Scholars Young Research Fellowship offers ₹1 lakh grant for women-centric policy research (End of December) ▼
  • The National Commission for Women has launched SHAKTI Scholars: NCW’s Young Research Fellowship programme.
  • The fellowship invites applications from citizens aged 21 to 30 years with a minimum qualification of graduation from a recognised institution.
  • Selected candidates will receive a research grant of one lakh rupees to undertake a six-month research study on women-centric policy issues.
PM VIKAS: Skill Training for 2,110 Minority Youth through NIFTEM-K (End of December) ▼
  • The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) has selected the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) Kundli as a Project Implementing Agency (PIA) to implement the PM VIKAS scheme.
  • Under this project, NIFTEM-K will train a total of 2,110 beneficiaries from the minority community.
  • The training will be conducted across seven locations in the states of Jharkhand, Bihar, Punjab, and Haryana.
  • The program includes three training categories: Multi Skill Technician (Food Processing), Millet Products Processor, and Assistant Baking Technician.
  • The project will provide National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) compliant skill training through National Council of Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) approved courses.
  • The initiative aims to facilitate placement in wage employment, self-employment, or apprenticeship, with certification from institutions approved by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
  • The program is scheduled to be rolled out in January 2026.
Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) signs MoUs with spiritual organisations to boost mass awareness (End of December) ▼
  • Department of Social Justice & Empowerment signed MoUs with Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram and University of Patanjali under NMBA.
  • NMBA launched on 15th August 2020 in 272 vulnerable districts and now covers all districts of India.
  • 25.7+ crore people sensitised on substance use including 9.2+ crore youth and 6.3+ crore women.
  • 15.98+ lakh educational institutions participated to spread NMBA message among children and youth.
  • MoUs signed with 8 spiritual organisations: The Art of Living, Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, ISKCON, Shri Ram Chandra Mission, All World Gayatri Pariwar, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram and University of Patanjali.

Ministry of Mines notifies Offshore Areas Mineral Prevention of Illegal Mining and Transportation Rules, 2026

[Ministry of Mines]

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Mines notified the Offshore Areas Mineral Prevention of Illegal Mining and Transportation Rules, 2026, which came into force on February 3, 2026.
  • The rules are framed under the Offshore Areas Mineral Development and Regulation Act, 2002 (OAMDR Act) to regulate all offshore minerals except mineral oils and hydrocarbons.
  • Operating right holders are mandated to deploy real-time electronic monitoring systems for vessel tracking, weight recording, and continuous video capture of offshore operations.
  • A digitally signed transit permit issued via a regulation portal is required for dispatching minerals, with the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) sharing these permits with state governments.
  • Companies exporting minerals directly from offshore areas must obtain clearance from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) at least seven days before export.
  • Mandatory weighment systems must be installed at the first onshore point of discharge to match weight records against dispatch data.
  • Penalties for illegal mining include imprisonment up to five years and fines ranging from ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore, plus an additional daily penalty of ₹5 lakh for continuing offences.
  • Proceeds from the public auction of seized minerals and property will be credited to the Consolidated Fund of India.

Similar Coverage

Coking Coal Notified as Critical and Strategic Mineral to Cut Steel Import Dependence (End of January) ▼
  • The government notified coking coal as a 'Critical and Strategic Mineral' under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
  • The decision follows recommendations of the High-Level Committee on Implementation of Viksit Bharat Goals and policy inputs from NITI Aayog.
  • India holds an estimated 37.37 billion tonnes of coking coal resources, mainly in Jharkhand, with additional reserves in Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh.
  • Coking coal imports rose from 51.20 million tonnes in 2020–21 to 57.58 million tonnes in 2024–25.
  • About 95% of the steel sector’s coking coal requirement is currently met through imports.
  • The amendment adds 'Coking Coal' to Part D of the First Schedule of the MMDR Act, listing it among Critical and Strategic Minerals.
  • Mining of critical minerals is exempt from public consultation and allows use of degraded forest land for compensatory afforestation to encourage private sector participation.
  • Royalty, auction premium and other statutory payments will continue to go to state governments under Section 11D(3) of the MMDR Act.
Reliance Industries Ltd and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC) sign MoU for sharing offshore resources. (End of January) ▼
  • Reliance Industries Ltd and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC) signed an MoU on the sidelines of India Energy Week (IEW) to share offshore supply vessels and other resources.
  • The pact targets enhanced operational efficiency, faster execution of offshore projects, and stronger synergies between India's largest oil and gas producer and the nation's most valuable company.
  • The collaboration aims to allow a vessel approved by authorities to move between adjacent blocks, such as ONGC’s KG-DWN-98/2 and Reliance-BP’s KG-DWN-98/3 in the Krishna Godavari basin, without fresh approvals.
  • Currently, securing fresh approvals for a foreign-flagged offshore supply vessel from the ministries of defence and home affairs and the director general of shipping takes 45 days and is area- and duration-specific.
  • The companies will jointly approach the government to permit use of any fully-approved vessel anywhere in the Indian sedimentary basin.
  • This is the second recent collaboration between ONGC and Reliance after they partnered with BP in 2024 to bid for the 5,454-sq-km Block GS-OSHP-2022/2 in the Saurashtra Basin under Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) bid round IX.
India’s First Tailings Policy for Critical Minerals Recovery (End of January) ▼
  • The Ministry of Mines announced India’s first tailings policy to set guidelines for exploration of critical minerals from primary as well as secondary sources like mine dumps and tailings of existing mines.
  • Indian Bureau of Mines, Central Mine Planning & Design Institute and Atomic Minerals Directorate are to conduct sample analysis of dumps and tailings of all existing mines to identify quantity and likely availability of critical and strategic elements.
  • The policy aims to frame a roadmap for recovery of critical minerals from tailings, ensuring increased domestic production and reduced import dependency.
Government of India (GoI) Notifies Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules 2025 (End of December) ▼
  • The Government of India (GoI) has notified the Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules, 2025, under the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Act, 2025.
  • The new rules replace the system of multiple licenses with a single petroleum lease covering exploration, development, and production of all hydrocarbons, including shale.
  • The regulatory framework provides lease tenures of up to 30 years, which are extendable for the full economic life of a field.
  • Criminal penalties for violations have been removed and replaced with financial penalties of ₹25 lakh, plus ₹10 lakh per day for continuing breaches.
  • Applications for the grant of a petroleum lease must be decided within a time-bound period of 180 days.
  • The Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD) is designated as the competent authority for offshore safety, audits, and standard-setting in exploration and production operations.
  • Environmental provisions mandate time-bound plans for zero gas flaring and reduced greenhouse emissions at oilfields.
  • The rules permit lessees to jointly develop or share infrastructure facilities by mutual agreement and require an annual declaration of infrastructure capacity.
  • The seat of arbitration for disputes involving foreign companies may be a neutral seat, while New Delhi is the seat for disputes where all lessees are Indian-incorporated companies.

National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) launched for Paperless Legislative Processes

[National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA)]

Key Updates:

  • Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla launched the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) at the Bihar Assembly to transition to paperless legislative processes.
  • NeVA is a workflow system deployed on the National Informatics Centre (NIC) cloud designed to facilitate the digital conduct of legislative business.
  • The application enables members to access rules of procedures, the list of businesses, notices, bulletins, bills, questions and answers, and committee reports via hand-held devices.
  • The project aims to integrate all legislatures across India to establish a massive centralised data depository.
  • The launch event was attended by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh and Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.

Similar Coverage

Nitin Nabin assumes charge as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National Working President (Mid of December) ▼
  • Nitin Nabin succeeded Union Minister JP Nadda as the BJP National Working President.
  • He is the youngest BJP president ever and the first BJP president from Bihar and Eastern India.
  • Nabin is a five-time MLA and Minister of Road Construction in the Bihar Government.
  • He is the son of veteran BJP leader Navin Kishore Prasad Sinha.
National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA): Paperless Lawmaking under Digital India (Start of December) ▼
  • NeVA is a Mission Mode Project under the Digital India programme.
  • 28 State and Union Territory Legislatures have signed MoUs for its adoption.
  • 20 have already become fully digital Houses.
  • NeVA enables complete backend computerisation of Legislature Secretariat branches.
  • Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs provides ICT infrastructure, training and continuous technical handholding.
  • NeVA offers a unified digital architecture for all 37 State/UT Legislatures.
  • Bhashini-powered AI tools enable text translation, speech-to-text and voice-to-speech.
NAMO Book Fest First Edition Held in New Delhi (Mid of January) ▼
  • India’s first NAMO Book Fest is being held in Delhi.
  • Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, released two books titled ‘Gen V Bano’ and ‘Mahatma’ at the fest.
  • The fest features a curated exhibition of books on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and brings together authors, thinkers, and youth.
Moolathva World Award For Nele Foundation (Mid of November) ▼
  • Bengaluru's Nele Foundation has been honored with the 2025 Moolathva World Award for its dedicated work in empowering underprivileged children.
  • The foundation currently shelters 415 children across 12 centers.
  • It will receive a cash prize of Rs 1,00,001.
  • The award ceremony is scheduled for November 16.
  • Nele Foundation started as a project of the Hindu Seva Pratishthana in 2000 and has functioned as an independent trust since 2014.
  • Over 2,000 children have been rehabilitated through the foundation so far.
  • The foundation provides food, clothing, accommodation, health services, education, holistic development, and personal growth opportunities.

India commissions first indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft INS Arnala

Key Updates:

  • INS Arnala, the Indian Navy’s first indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), was commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command at Visakhapatnam on 18 June 2025.
  • The 77-metre, 1,490-tonne vessel was designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) under a Ministry of Defence programme and incorporates over 80 per cent indigenous content.
  • Powered by a diesel engine–waterjet propulsion system, INS Arnala is the largest Indian naval warship using this technology, enabling high manoeuvrability and shallow-draught operations.
  • The warship is equipped with advanced underwater sensors, mine-laying capability, modern command-and-control systems and stealth features to reduce radar, acoustic and infrared signatures.
  • Named after Arnala Fort off Vasai, Maharashtra, the vessel is optimised for coastal anti-submarine warfare, underwater surveillance, search and rescue, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations.

Similar Coverage

Indian Navy First Training Squadron concludes three-day Indonesia visit (End of January) ▼
  • Indian Navy First Training Squadron (1TS) departed Belawan, Indonesia on January 23 after a three-day port call.
  • Ships of 1TS included INS Tir, INS Shardul, INS Sujata and Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarathi.
  • Professional interactions, cultural exchanges, training visits and friendly sports meets were held with Indonesian Navy personnel.
  • Capt Tijo K Joseph, Senior Officer 1TS, met Laksamana Muda (RAdm) Deny Septiana, Commander of Naval Area Command I (Komando Kodaeral I).
  • An onboard reception co-hosted by 1TS and Consulate General of India, Medan, was attended by senior dignitaries of Kodaeral I with Kolonel Wirawan Aby P, Chief of Operations, as Chief Guest.
  • Indian naval trainees visited Komando Daerah Angkatan Laut I facilities to understand regional command roles.
  • Joint yoga sessions and friendly sports were organised fostering camaraderie between the two navies.
  • Ships were opened to local school children, generating excitement and curiosity through guided tours.
  • The visit advances India's Act East Policy and strengthens maritime cooperation with Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) member Indonesia under the MAHASAGAR vision.
Navy commissions ‘silent hunter’ INS Mahe; Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi says armed forces’ strength lies in synergy (End of November) ▼
  • The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahe, its first indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC).
  • INS Mahe was commissioned at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai with over 80 per cent indigenous parts after two years of rigorous sea trials.
  • Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi was the chief guest, marking the first time an Army Chief attended a naval commissioning ceremony.
  • General Dwivedi stated that the induction of INS Mahe reflects the nation’s growing ability to design, construct, and deploy complex warships using indigenous technology.
  • General Dwivedi emphasized that the strength of armed forces lies in synergy, quoting Helen Keller: "Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much."
  • He highlighted that the sea, land, and the skies form a single continuum of national security, and together, the Army-Navy and Air Force form the trinity of India’s strategic strength.
  • INS Mahe is the first of the Mahe-class ASW-SWCs, described as sleek, swift, and resolutely Indian.
  • INS Mahe will operate as a “silent hunter” on the western seaboard, dedicated to safeguarding India’s maritime frontiers.
  • The ship’s construction began at the Cochin Shipyard, with the steel-cutting ceremony held in December 2020, keel laying on August 30, 2022, launch in November 2023, first sea sortie in May this year, and handover to the Navy on October 23.
  • The ship is named after Mahe, a serene coastal enclave on the Malabar coast that forms part of the Union Territory of Puducherry.
  • An earlier Soviet-built coastal minesweeper, also named INS Mahe, entered service in 1983 and was decommissioned in 2006 after 23 years of service.
India and Bangladesh participate in International Fleet Review in Colombo on November 30 (End of November) ▼
  • India's first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and multi-mission stealth frigate Udaygiri have arrived in Colombo for an international fleet review to mark the 75th anniversary of Sri Lanka Navy.
  • In a display of naval cooperation, three warships representing Bangladesh and India made port calls in Colombo on November 25 and 26, for the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2025, scheduled to be held on November 30.
  • This also marks INS Udaygiri 's first foreign visit since its commission on August 26, 2025.
  • India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, arrived in Colombo for her maiden participation in Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) IFR 2025.
  • The state-of-the-art Project 17A multi-mission stealth frigates Udaygiri and Himgiri were commissioned at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam on August 26 this year.
  • Udaygiri, built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai, and Himgiri, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers in Kolkata, showcase the nation's growing shipbuilding prowess.
India to induct third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) INS Aridhaman soon: Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi (Start of December) ▼
  • India will soon induct its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Aridhaman.
  • INS Arighaat, the second SSBN, was commissioned into the Strategic Forces Command in Visakhapatnam in August.
  • Once INS Aridhaman enters service, India will have three operational ballistic missile submarines at sea for the first time.
  • INS Aridhaman is undergoing advanced trials.
  • INS Aridhaman is designed to carry more long-range nuclear-tipped missiles than predecessors INS Arihant and INS Arighaat.
  • A fourth SSBN is currently under construction.
  • Upcoming submarines have the capacity to load additional K-4 missiles due to their larger build.
  • The four platforms are part of the classified Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project launched in the 1990s with an outlay of over ₹90,000 crore.
  • China operates six Jin-class SSBNs equipped with JL-3 missiles (10,000-km range) and six SSNs.
  • The US has 14 Ohio-class SSBNs and 53 nuclear attack submarines.

India signs MoUs with 23 countries for Digital Public Infrastructure cooperation

Key Updates:

  • India has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)/agreements with 23 countries for sharing and cooperation on India Stack / Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
  • The MoUs focus on digital identity, digital payments, data exchange and service delivery platforms under India Stack framework.
  • The countries are: Republic of Armenia, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Suriname, Antigua and Barbuda, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, United Republic of Tanzania, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Cuba, Republic of Colombia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Ethiopia, Jamaica, Gambia, Fiji, Guyana, Venezuela, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Lesotho, Maldives, Mongolia.
  • UPI is now live in over eight countries: UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius and Qatar.
  • MoUs for Digilocker have been signed with Cuba, Kenya, United Arab Emirates and Lao People's Democratic Republic.
  • India Stack Global portal (www.indiastack.global) showcases 18 key digital platforms for global adoption.
  • Global DPI Repository (www.dpi.global) was launched during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, with India contributing the highest number of DPI solutions.
  • Key DPI platforms include Aadhaar, UPI, CoWIN, API Setu, DigiLocker, Aarogya Setu, GeM, UMANG, DIKSHA, e-Sanjeevani, e-Hospital, e-Office, eCourts, POSHAN Tracker, National NCD Platform, Skill India Digital Hub, PFMS and PM GatiShakti.
  • The information was provided by Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Shri Jitin Prasada in Rajya Sabha on 06.02.2026.

Similar Coverage

National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and NTT Data to launch Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in Japan (End of January) ▼
  • The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has partnered with Japanese IT services firm NTT Data to roll out Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in Japan on a trial basis in fiscal 2026.
  • The initial phase of the service will be available to Indian tourists visiting Japan, allowing payments to be debited directly from their bank accounts in India.
  • Japan will join eight other countries that have already adopted the UPI platform, including Bhutan, Singapore, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sri Lanka, Qatar, Mauritius, and France.
  • UPI transactions in India grew by 42 percent in fiscal 2024, reaching a total of 185.8 billion transactions.
  • A June 2025 report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) described UPI as the world’s largest real-time payment system.
  • Data from 2023 shows that 49 percent of all instant-payment transactions worldwide were processed through the UPI network.
  • NTT Data provides payment terminals and processing services to approximately six million stores in India and plans to promote UPI adoption among merchants in Japan.
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) records over 19 billion transactions valued at ₹24.58 lakh crore in November 2025 (Start of December) ▼
  • National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) data shows UPI recorded over 19 billion transactions worth ₹24.58 lakh crore as of November 28.
  • UPI recorded 15.48 billion transactions valued at ₹21.55 lakh crore in November 2024.
  • UPI transaction volume in November 2025 grew by about 23 per cent from November 2024.
  • UPI transaction value rose by nearly 14 per cent year-on-year.
  • UPI transactions increased by nearly 70 per cent in volume and over 41 per cent in value from November 2023.
  • UPI logged 4.18 billion transactions valued at ₹7.68 lakh crore in November 2021.
  • UPI transaction volume grew more than fourfold from 2021 to 2025.
  • UPI total transaction value increased by over threefold from 2021 to 2025.
  • UPI processed 12.41 billion transactions for financial year 2025-26 so far with average daily volume of 689.60 million.
  • UPI average daily value for FY 2025-26 so far stood at ₹91,324.77 crore.
  • Corresponding period in FY 2024-25 had UPI average daily volume of 516.07 million and value of ₹71,839.58 crore.
Tata Electronics and Intel to explore chip packaging and AI PC solutions in India (Start of December) ▼
  • Tata Electronics has signed Intel as the first major prospective customer for its upcoming semiconductor facilities in India.
  • Intel and Tata intend to explore manufacturing and packaging of Intel products for local markets at Tata Electronics’ upcoming Fab and OSAT facilities.
  • The collaboration will also focus on rapidly scaling tailored AI PC solutions for consumer and enterprise markets in India.
  • Tata Group is building two semiconductor facilities in India worth around $14 billion, including a fabrication plant in Gujarat and an assembly and testing plant in Assam.
India and Germany sign Joint Declaration of Intent on Telecommunications Cooperation (Mid of January) ▼
  • India and Germany signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on Telecommunications Cooperation during German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s official visit to India.
  • The JDI was signed by Telecom Secretary Amit Agrawal and German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann.
  • The declaration was concluded between the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation.
  • Both sides agreed to promote collaboration in emerging and future technologies, policy and regulatory frameworks, manufacturing, and ease of doing business in telecom and ICT sectors.
  • The pact establishes a framework for regular consultations, high-level annual meetings, and multi-stakeholder engagement involving government, industry, academia, and research institutions.
  • India and Germany will jointly develop a work plan outlining specific goals and areas of mutual interest aligned with national priorities.
  • Both countries will work together in international fora to promote common understanding on telecommunications and digital development.

Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovers two new polychaete worm species in Bay of Bengal

[Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Bay of Bengal]

Key Updates:

  • Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) researchers identified two new marine worm species, Namalycastis solenotognatha and Nereis dhritiae, in Digha and Bankiput regions of Purba Medinipur, West Bengal.
  • Namalycastis solenotognatha inhabits sulfide-rich, foul-smelling mudflats and decomposing mangrove wood, and possesses a channeled jaw structure with multiple pulp-cavity canals.
  • Nereis dhritiae was found inside wooden dock piles on sandy beaches submerged at high tide and is named after ZSI’s first woman director Dhriti Banerjee.
  • Both species tolerate heavy human activity and industrial pollution, highlighting their resilience and potential as bioindicators for monitoring coastal health.

Similar Coverage

GITAM School of Science records first confirmed predation by horn-eyed ghost crab on mottled lightfoot crab at Rushikonda (Start of December) ▼
  • Researchers from GITAM School of Science, Visakhapatnam, documented the “first confirmed instance” of a horn-eyed ghost crab preying on a mottled lightfoot crab along the Rushikonda shoreline.
  • The observation implies a behavioural extension of the horn-eyed ghost crab from sandy intertidal zones into rocky sections, “likely tied to nocturnal foraging.”
  • Ghost crabs influence coastal ecosystems through feeding habits and burrow construction that “shape the physical texture of the shore.”
  • Six species of ghost crabs have been reported along the Indian coastline, with at least three—O. brevicornis, O. macrocera and O. cordimanus—observed at Rushikonda Beach.
  • The finding has been published in the November edition of the Journal of Threatened Taxa.
CUSAT-led team establishes new genus and species of microscopic crustacean from Kavaratti lagoon (End of January) ▼
  • The crustacean belongs to the family Laophontidae within the Copepoda class.
  • Named Indiaphonte bijoyi, the generic name honours India and the species name commemorates S. Bijoy Nandan, Dean, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT).
  • Females range from 518 to 772 micrometres in body length; males from 508 to 756 micrometres.
  • As meiofauna, these organisms produce omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA essential for fish and shellfish growth and human nutrition.
  • Harpacticoid copepods serve as reliable bio-indicators of pollution, oil spills, heavy metals and climate change.

Guinness World Records confirms 7.22 m reticulated python Ibu Baron as longest measured snake

[Guinness World Records]

Key Updates:

  • Guinness World Records verified the female reticulated python Ibu Baron at 7.22 metres (23 ft 8 in) from Maros County, Sulawesi, Indonesia.
  • Under anaesthesia the snake could relax to an estimated 7.9 m (26 ft), but Guinness World Records does not permit anaesthesia solely for measurement.
  • Conservationist Budi Purwanto acquired the snake in December 2025 to protect her after local discovery.
  • Wildlife guide Diaz Nugraha and natural-history photographer Radu Frentiu measured the snake on site.
  • Reticulated pythons have killed and swallowed humans in Indonesia, with South Sulawesi recording two such fatalities in mid-2024.

Similar Coverage

Fossil discovery in Gujarat identifies giant snake from Eocene era (End of December) ▼
  • Fossil evidence discovered in Gujarat has attracted scientific notice due to evidence of a snake of extraordinary size that existed during what is loosely defined as the Eocene era, some 47 million years ago.
  • The species was identified as a related member of the extinct madtsoiid species, the clade of species recognised for having evolved the largest species of snake throughout history.
  • The fossils of the collected Gujarat species are dominated by well-preserved vertebrae in sedimentary deposits from the early Eocene period.
  • Described in the study published in Scientific Reports, the species has outstanding vertebral features compared with similar species of the madtsoiid genus.
  • The Eocene was a time when the planet saw hot conditions year-round, and the polar regions were mostly devoid of ice.
  • Analysis of the geological and palaeobotanical data available for Gujarat has revealed a landscape dominated by rivers, deltas, and dense forests.
  • Madtsoiids have been found on various southern continents: Africa, South America, and Australia; these continents all comprised the supercontinent Gondwana.
Scientists Identify New Reed Snake Species Calamaria mizoramensis in Mizoram (Start of January) ▼
  • Scientists have identified a new species of reed snake, Calamaria mizoramensis, in Mizoram, India.
  • The breakthrough came with a fresh round of research published in Zootaxa.
  • The snake showed more than a 15 per cent genetic difference from its closest known relatives.
  • This newly identified snake is non-venomous and mostly active at night.
  • It prefers moist, forested hills and has been found at elevations between 670 and 1,295 metres.
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) researchers discover 47-million-year-old snake fossil in Gujarat (End of December) ▼
  • Along the Kutch coast, researchers unearthed fossils hinting at an ancient serpent, now estimated to be a mind-blowing 49 feet long and weighing nearly 1,000 kilograms.
  • For almost two decades, dedicated researchers from IIT Roorkee have meticulously studied these remains.
  • At a breathtaking 49 feet, it potentially takes the crown as the largest snake ever unearthed on Earth.
  • Early snakes, dating back over 160 million years, first emerged in the oceans.
  • Given the striking references to Vasuki Naag in Hindu scriptures, the scientific community has aptly named this newly identified serpent 'Vasuki'.
Indian Scientists Discover Two New Slender-Armed Frog Species in Arunachal Pradesh (Mid of January) ▼
  • Indian scientists discovered two new slender-armed frogs from their secretive habitats in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Delhi University (DU) frog hunter S D Biju and his PhD student Akalabya spotted the new species north of the Brahmaputra river.
  • Soman’s Slender Arm Frog Leptobrachium somani was discovered at Tiwari Gaon and named after late E Somanath, a noted journalist from Kerala.
  • The Mechuka Slender Arm Frog Leptobrachium mechuka is named after Mechuka, a small Arunachal Pradesh town close to the China border.
  • The Brahmaputra river acted as the biogeographical barrier for these frogs, aiding species diversification.
  • The slender-armed frogs Leptobrachium belong to the family Megophryidae, which is one of the most diverse frog families globally with 366 recognised species.
  • The study was published in the US based scientific journal Peer J.

New trapdoor spider species Titanidiops kolhapurensis discovered in Maharashtra

[Maharashtra]

Key Updates:

  • A new species of trapdoor spider, named Titanidiops kolhapurensis, has been discovered in the grasslands of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra.
  • The discovery was made by a joint research team from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation and Shivaji University, Kolhapur (SUK).
  • The findings were published in the Journal of Natural History, an international research publication based in the United Kingdom (UK).
  • The spider is nicknamed darkari koli in Marathi because of its unique ability to craft hinged doors for its burrows.
  • The species was classified under the Titanidiops genus based on its specific tooth structure and the arrangement of its eight eyes.
  • The spider has been recorded in specific locations including the SUK campus, Shenda Park, Kolhapur Chitranagari area, and Puikhadi hill.
  • Researchers found the species is absent in areas overtaken by exotic tree plantations such as Gliricidia sepium, commonly known as Undirmari.
  • The research team included Satpal Gangalmale, Sunil Gaikwad, Tejas Thackeray, and Akshay Khandekar.

Similar Coverage

Rare Jumping Spider Colyttus bilineatus Recorded for the First Time in India (End of January) ▼
  • Researchers from Assam University, Silchar, have recorded the rare jumping spider species Colyttus bilineatus for the first time in India.
  • The species was documented at Loharbond, located within the Inner Line Reserved Forest in the Cachar district of Assam.
  • The Inner Line Reserved Forest, where the discovery occurred, shares borders with the states of Mizoram and Manipur.
  • This discovery adds to the biodiversity list of India and highlights the scientific significance of the forests in southern Assam.
Botanical Survey of India (BSI) discovers new flowering plant species Dicliptera pakhalica in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, Telangana (Start of February) ▼
  • Botanical Survey of India (BSI) scientists identified the new species Dicliptera pakhalica in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahbubabad district, Telangana.
  • The species belongs to the Acanthaceae family and was formally described in the journal Brittonia on 29 January.
  • The plant was found along stream banks and rocky areas near waterfalls within the sanctuary.
  • Dicliptera pakhalica differs from related Eastern Ghats species by adpressed deflexed stem hairiness, unkeeled bracts, absence of glandular hairs on floral parts and fruit, obovoid capsule, and echinate seeds.
  • The genus Dicliptera contains over 220 species worldwide; 29 taxa are recorded in India.
  • Flowering occurs from November to January and fruiting from December to March.
  • The species is currently known only from its type locality and is classified as Data Deficient under IUCN guidelines.
Kerala and Tamil Nadu researchers discover two new ant-fly species in Delhi ridge and Western Ghats (End of January) ▼
  • Researchers from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetam and Kerala Agricultural University discovered Metadon ghorpadei in Delhi’s northern ridge forest and Metadon reemeri in the Siruvani hills of Western Ghats.
  • Both species belong to the sub family Microdontinae (Syrphidae) and exhibit myrmecophily, with larvae living inside ant nests and feeding on ant brood.
  • The findings, based on detailed morphological studies and DNA analysis, were published in the international journal Zootaxa.
  • The study reviewed Indian fauna of the genus Metadon and redescribed six previously known species.
  • Only 27 of the 454 globally reported Microdontinae species are known from the Indian subcontinent.
Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) discovers India’s first raft spider, Dolomedes indicus, in Western Ghats streams (Start of December) ▼
  • Researchers identified Dolomedes indicus in the evergreen rainforests of the Western Ghats, specifically in Lakkidi and Periya areas of Wayanad district, Kerala.
  • Dolomedes indicus is an active, semi-aquatic predator that uses water surface tension to detect prey vibrations and captures insects or small fish with rapid movements.
  • The species can swim and dive; one female remained submerged for nearly an hour and a half, breathing via air trapped by hydrophobic body hairs.
  • Males exhibit a distinctive snow-white marking from face to back centre, while larger females display greenish-brown coloration for camouflage among mossy rocks and foliage.
  • Genetic and morphological analyses confirmed Dolomedes indicus as a new species, providing the first verified record of the Dolomedes genus in India.
  • Specimens have been permanently preserved and deposited in the Insect Collection of the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) for future study.
  • The spider thrives only in pristine, cool forest streams, making it a potential indicator species for monitoring freshwater ecosystem health.

New Ant Species Polyrhachis garbhangaensis Discovered in Assam

[Assam]

Key Updates:

  • Scientists have identified a new ant species named Polyrhachis garbhangaensis in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, Assam.
  • The species belongs to the rare mucronata group of spiny ants and represents only the third species of this group ever recorded in India.
  • The discovery was led by the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru, and the formal description was published in the journal Asian Myrmecology on 30 January.
  • The ant measures approximately 5.6 millimetres in length and is distinguished by a bright yellow-orange abdomen and curved spines on its body.
  • Assam is a major centre of diversity for this genus, accounting for 21 of the more than 70 known Polyrhachis species recorded in India.
  • The research team also recorded an ant-mimicking spider in the same area, suggesting complex predator-prey relationships within the urban-adjacent forest ecosystem.

Similar Coverage

Botanical Survey of India (BSI) discovers new flowering plant species Dicliptera pakhalica in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, Telangana (Start of February) ▼
  • Botanical Survey of India (BSI) scientists identified the new species Dicliptera pakhalica in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahbubabad district, Telangana.
  • The species belongs to the Acanthaceae family and was formally described in the journal Brittonia on 29 January.
  • The plant was found along stream banks and rocky areas near waterfalls within the sanctuary.
  • Dicliptera pakhalica differs from related Eastern Ghats species by adpressed deflexed stem hairiness, unkeeled bracts, absence of glandular hairs on floral parts and fruit, obovoid capsule, and echinate seeds.
  • The genus Dicliptera contains over 220 species worldwide; 29 taxa are recorded in India.
  • Flowering occurs from November to January and fruiting from December to March.
  • The species is currently known only from its type locality and is classified as Data Deficient under IUCN guidelines.
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) Discovers New Caecilian Species Gegeneophis valmiki in Maharashtra (End of January) ▼
  • A multi-institutional research team led by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has discovered a rare subterranean amphibian species named Gegeneophis valmiki.
  • The discovery was made in the northern Western Ghats on the Valmiki Plateau in the Satara district of Maharashtra.
  • The species belongs to the genus Gegeneophis, commonly known as blind caecilians, which live underground and have eyes hidden beneath bone.
  • The findings were published in the international journal Phyllomedusa based on specimens first collected in 2017 by K P Dinesh, a senior scientist at the ZSI.
  • The species is named after the Maharshi Valmiki Mandir located near the discovery site.
  • ZSI Director Dhriti Banerjee stated that 41 per cent of amphibians globally are currently threatened with extinction.
Kerala and Tamil Nadu researchers discover two new ant-fly species in Delhi ridge and Western Ghats (End of January) ▼
  • Researchers from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetam and Kerala Agricultural University discovered Metadon ghorpadei in Delhi’s northern ridge forest and Metadon reemeri in the Siruvani hills of Western Ghats.
  • Both species belong to the sub family Microdontinae (Syrphidae) and exhibit myrmecophily, with larvae living inside ant nests and feeding on ant brood.
  • The findings, based on detailed morphological studies and DNA analysis, were published in the international journal Zootaxa.
  • The study reviewed Indian fauna of the genus Metadon and redescribed six previously known species.
  • Only 27 of the 454 globally reported Microdontinae species are known from the Indian subcontinent.
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovers rare subterranean amphibian species Gegeneophis valmiki (Mid of January) ▼
  • Indian scientists have discovered a rare subterranean amphibian species in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra and named it Gegeneophis valmiki.
  • The discovery, made by a multi-institutional research team led by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), has been published in the international journal Phyllomedusa.
  • The species was first collected in 2017 by K P Dinesh, senior scientist at ZSI, during surveys on the Valmiki Plateau in Maharashtra's Satara district.
  • Members of the genus Gegeneophis, commonly called blind caecilians, live almost their entire lives underground with eyes hidden beneath bone.
  • According to ZSI Director Dhriti Banerjee, 41 per cent of amphibians are threatened with extinction globally.

Eurasian Otter Sightings Confirmed in Jammu and Kashmir After 50 Years

[Jammu and Kashmir]

Key Updates:

  • The Forest Department of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) recorded the first direct photographic evidence of the Eurasian Otter in Sindh Nalla, Ganderbal, in nearly 50 years.
  • Range Officer Faizan Anwar Mir captured an image of a sub-adult otter in Gutlibagh, suggesting the existence of a breeding group in the area.
  • The Kishenganga river acts as a natural corridor for the species to move across the Line of Control (LoC) between Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and North Kashmir.
  • Evidence indicates that the otters swim freely between PoK and villages in North Kashmir, crossing the frontier at Keran and Teetwal.
  • Earlier camera-trap records had confirmed the presence of the species in the Kishenganga and Rambiara Nalla regions before the recent direct sighting.
  • The high-altitude, cold-water streams along the LoC provide a vital sanctuary for the species due to minimal civilian industrialisation.
  • Environmental experts noted that pollution and encroachment in Wular Lake and Jhelum waters remain major obstacles to the species' full ecological recovery.

Similar Coverage

Second Pan-India Dolphin Survey Launches from Bijnor under Project Dolphin (Mid of January) ▼
  • The Union Environment Ministry launched the second pan-India counting exercise for dolphins to assess the status of Gangetic, Indus river and Irrawaddy dolphins.
  • The survey commenced at Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh with 26 researchers in three boats, recording ecological and habitat parameters while using hydrophones for underwater acoustic monitoring.
  • In the first phase, the survey will cover the main stem of the Ganga from Bijnor to Ganga Sagar and the Indus River.
  • In the second phase, it will cover Brahmaputra, the tributaries of the Ganga, the Sundarbans, and Odisha.
  • The previous survey recorded an estimated 6,327 dolphins in Ganga, Yamuna, Chambal, Gandak, Ghaghara, Kosi, Mahanada and Brahmaputra systems, and a small population of Indus river dolphins in the Beas.
  • This survey will include Irrawaddy dolphin, found in the Sundarban delta and Odisha, to update population estimates, assess threats and habitat conditions.
  • Led by Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, the survey is coordinated with state forest departments and organisations like WWF India, Aaranyak and Wildlife Trust of India.
Project Dolphin (PD): Second Pan-India Survey Launched to Assess River Dolphin Populations (Mid of January) ▼
  • The Union Environment Ministry (UEM) launched the second pan-India counting exercise for dolphins, which will assess the status of Gangetic dolphin along with Indus river and Irrawaddy dolphins on 17 January 2026.
  • The survey, Under Project Dolphin (PD), commenced at Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh with 26 researchers in three boats, recording ecological and habitat parameters while also using hydrophones for underwater acoustic monitoring.
  • In the first phase, the survey will cover the main stem of the Ganga from Bijnor to Ganga Sagar and the Indus River.
  • In the second phase, it will cover Brahmaputra, the tributaries of the Ganga, the Sundarbans, and Odisha to include the Irrawaddy dolphin found in the Sundarban delta.
  • The survey is Led by Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun... in coordination with state forest departments and in collaboration with other organisations like WWF India, Aaranyak and Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).
  • The counting exercise will generate robust scientific data to support conservation planning and policy action for river ecosystems.
China launches Arctic Express route cutting China-Europe transit to 18 days (End of November) ▼
  • China-Europe Arctic Express reduces transit time to 18 days versus over 25 days by China-Europe Railway Express, over 40 days via Suez Canal and over 50 days around Cape of Good Hope.
  • Arctic Express lowers business inventory needs by 40 per cent and carbon emissions by approximately 50 per cent compared to traditional longer routes.
  • Northern Sea Route shortens East Asia-Europe maritime distance from 21,000 km via Suez Canal to 12,800 km, saving 10-15 days transit time.
  • International North-South Transport Corridor cuts transport costs by nearly USD 2,500 per 15 tonnes of cargo.
  • India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor aims to reduce transit times by 40 per cent compared to existing maritime routes.
  • Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor can cut travel time from about 40 days to 24 days.
Tamil Nadu Forest Department launches smooth-coated otter conservation drive in Cauvery delta (End of December) ▼
  • The Tamil Nadu Department of Forests unveiled a conservation initiative titled ‘Conservation initiative to study the population dynamics, behavioural pattern, and habitat improvement of smooth-coated otters in Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, and Cuddalore districts, within the Cauvery River delta’.
  • The project received administrative approval for Rs. 20 lakh, with Rs. 10 lakh disbursed for the 2025-26 financial year as per a July government order.
  • Led by the Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC) in Vandalur, Chennai, the study will be conducted through the department of wildlife biology at AVC Autonomous College in Mayiladuthurai.
  • Smooth-coated otters are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and safeguarded under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
  • Otters are monitored through direct observations, faecal sample analysis, photographic records, and environmental DNA sampling.
  • The Endangered Wildlife and Environmental Trust (EWET) has performed field surveys and habitat mapping throughout the delta to safeguard and track otter populations.

International Epilepsy Day 2026 to be observed on 9 February with theme 'Turning Stories into Action'

Key Updates:

  • International Epilepsy Day 2026 falls on Monday, 9 February, the second Monday of February.
  • The 2026 theme 'Turning Stories into Action' is led by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE).
  • The #EpilepsyPledge invites individuals, workplaces, schools, and organisations to commit to actions such as learning seizure first-aid, challenging myths, or sharing accurate information.
  • Purple is the global colour of epilepsy awareness.
  • Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
  • With proper treatment, seizures can often be managed or controlled.

Similar Coverage

National Epilepsy Day 2025: History, Significance, Awareness And Support (Mid of November) ▼
  • National Epilepsy Day is observed every year on November 17 in India.
  • The day was first initiated by the Epilepsy Foundation of India, formed by Dr Nirmal Surya in 2009 in Mumbai.
  • The day aims to raise awareness, fight stigma, improve treatments and protect the rights of epilepsy patients.
  • Epilepsy is described as a neurological disorder in which electrical activity in the brain becomes abnormal, causing repeated seizures.
  • Common signs include temporary loss of awareness, uncontrollable muscles, confusion, disturbed sensual perceptions and psychic symptoms like fear or hallucination.
  • The two primary seizure categories are Focal Onset Seizure and Generalised Onset Seizures.
  • Awareness activities include public events and workshops emphasising that epilepsy is treatable and not a social stigma.
  • Support efforts focus on ensuring proper care and creating an inclusive environment for patients.
National Newborn Week observed from November 15–21 with theme “Newborn Safety: Every Touch, Every Time, Every Baby” (End of November) ▼
  • National Newborn Week will be observed across the country from November 15 to 21 with the theme “Newborn Safety: Every Touch, Every Time, Every Baby.”
  • The theme underscores the urgent need to prioritize newborn safety at every stage of care.
  • The week-long initiative aims to reinforce a culture of safety through health workers, parents, and hospital systems.
World Pneumonia Day observed on 12 November: 2025 Theme 'Child Survival' (Mid of November) ▼
  • World Pneumonia Day is observed every year on 12 November.
  • The theme for 2025 is 'Child Survival', highlighting pneumonia as the leading infectious cause of death among children under five.
  • The day was first marked on 12 November 2009, initiated by the Global Coalition Against Child Pneumonia.
UNESCO adopts first global ethical framework for neurotechnology (Mid of November) ▼
  • UNESCO has approved the world’s first international framework on the ethics of neurotechnology.
  • The framework, named 'The Recommendation', sets out global safeguards to ensure that advances in brain-related technologies respect human rights, mental privacy and personal dignity.
  • It urges governments to develop national regulations that protect mental privacy, ensure equitable access to therapeutic technologies and prevent misuse in commercial or employment settings.
  • The Recommendation highlights the risk of products that can influence behaviour or foster dependency, calling for clearer oversight and evidence-based evaluation.
  • It calls for bans on non-therapeutic use of neurotechnology involving children, and stresses the need for explicit consent, transparency and safeguards for vulnerable communities.
  • The framework was drafted by an international expert group led by neuroscientist Hervé Chneiweiss and legal scholar Nita Farahany.
  • The Recommendation’s adoption at UNESCO’s General Conference in Samarkand marks the first attempt to build global governance around neurotechnology.

Azista Space demonstrates India's first indigenous in-orbit snooping capability

Key Updates:

  • Azista Space has become the first Indian aerospace firm to demonstrate in-orbit snooping by capturing images of the International Space Station (ISS) from another satellite.
  • The demonstration was conducted using the ABA First Runner (AFR), an 80-kg indigenous earth-observation satellite.
  • The AFR satellite was launched into space on 13 June 2023, by the Falcon-9 rocket of SpaceX as part of the Transporter-8 mission.
  • The company successfully tracked the ISS at ranges of approximately 250 km and 300 km, capturing 15 distinct frames with 2.2m sampling.
  • Azista Space operates a satellite and payload manufacturing facility in Sanand, Gujarat, which is capable of producing 50 satellites annually.
  • This achievement is a significant step towards strengthening India's Space Situational Awareness (SSA), which involves monitoring and tracking man-made satellites and space debris.
  • Personnel from the firm have been involved in over 12 missions of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

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India to launch over 50 spy satellites under Space-Based Surveillance-3 after border conflict surveillance gaps (End of January) ▼
  • India plans to launch over 50 spy satellites and add night-time imaging to enhance national security capabilities, people familiar with the matter said.
  • India encountered surveillance blind spots during a border conflict last year with neighbour Pakistan.
  • The Narendra Modi-led administration is looking to build ground stations overseas to relay information more quickly and comprehensively, said the people.
  • These ground stations could be in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Scandinavia, they said.
  • Plans are underway to enhance satellites with synthetic aperture radar capable of capturing images in dark, cloudy conditions.
  • Upgrades are being worked on to help transfer data from one satellite to another without relying on a ground station.
  • The launch of the first 52 satellites under Space-Based Surveillance-3 is being fast-tracked.
  • India plans to deploy as many as 150 new satellites to boost border security, Mint reported citing Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman V Narayanan.
  • The estimated cost of placing 150 satellites is about Rs 26,000 crore ($2.8 billion).
  • India has more than 100 satellites in orbit compared to just eight for Pakistan, according to spacecraft data tracker N2YO.com.
  • India’s satellites are blind at night or in cloudy conditions, a lacuna highlighted during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan last year.
  • China provided Pakistan with support during the fighting, helping Islamabad adjust its satellite coverage, a research group under India’s Ministry of Defence said last year.
Science and Technology Minister Arjunbhai Modhwadia Lays Foundation Stone for Azista Space Electro-Optical Payload Factory in Sanand (End of January) ▼
  • Science and Technology Minister Arjunbhai Modhwadia laid the foundation stone for the Electro-Optical Payload Factory of Azista Space Limited in Sanand, Gujarat.
  • The facility is being constructed at Plot Nos. K-19 to K-24/1 in the Khoraaj Industrial Estate, Sanand.
  • Azista Space Limited has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth over ₹500 crore with the Gujarat government for this project.
  • The plant is designed to be India’s first integrated private-sector satellite manufacturing facility, covering design, development, and testing under one roof.
  • The company has received technical guidance from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Space Applications Centre (SAC).
  • The facility has already developed complex systems such as silicon carbide mirrors domestically using indigenous technology.
  • The project aligns with the Gujarat Space Technology Policy and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative to strengthen national security and strategic preparedness.
Pixxel-led consortium signs MoU with IN-SPACe for India's first commercial earth observation satellite constellation (End of January) ▼
  • Pixxel-led consortium signed MoU with Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) in Bengaluru to build India's first indigenous commercial earth observation satellite constellation.
  • Consortium includes PierSight, SatSure Analytics India and Dhruva Space to build and deploy 12-satellite constellation.
  • First four satellites planned for orbit by first quarter of 2027, with remaining constellation rolling out in phases over following years.
  • 12 satellites will deliver very high-resolution optical, multispectral, SAR and hyperspectral imaging for Indian government users coordinated through IN-SPACe.
  • Consortium won government contract in August last year with zero bid, forgoing Rs 350 crore government support for design, build and operate constellation.
  • Project valued at over Rs 1,200 crore validates India's private space ecosystem ability to deliver infrastructure at global scale.
TakeMe2Space and EON Space Labs ship 14-kg MOI-1 satellite to ISRO’s Sriharikota for PSLV-C62 launch (Start of January) ▼
  • Two Hyderabad start-ups — TakeMe2Space and EON Space Labs — completed testing and integration of the 14-kilogram Earth observation satellite MOI-1 at Azista BST Aerospace in Ahmedabad.
  • MOI-1 will ride as a co-passenger on ISRO’s PSLV-C62 mission slated for early January 2026 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
  • The satellite carries MIRA, a miniaturised space telescope and imaging hardware developed by EON Space Labs to NASA-equivalent thermal-vacuum standards.
  • Once in 500-km low Earth orbit, MOI-1 will deliver multispectral imagery with 9.2-metre resolution and 18.7-kilometre swath across nine spectral bands for agriculture, urban mapping, ship detection and construction monitoring.
  • An on-board Nvidia GPU enables in-orbit AI processing, sending processed actionable data instead of raw images to cut downlink costs and serve commercial and defence users.

India U-17 blanks Bangladesh 4-0 to win SAFF U-19 Women's Championship

[Bangladesh]

Key Updates:

  • India's U-17 women's team defeated Bangladesh 4-0 in the SAFF U-19 Women's Championship final at Pokhara.
  • Captain Julan Nongmaithem scored in the 42nd minute to give India the lead.
  • Elizabed Lakra converted a 63rd-minute penalty to double India's advantage.
  • Pearl Fernandes added the third goal in the 68th minute after dispossessing the goalkeeper.
  • Substitute Anwita Raghuraman completed the scoring in the 83rd minute.
  • India had earlier lost 0-2 to Bangladesh in the round-robin stage of the tournament.

Similar Coverage

India beats England to win record-extending sixth ICC Under-19 World Cup (Start of February) ▼
  • India defeated England by 100 runs in the ICC Under-19 World Cup final.
  • India set a total of 411 for 9 in 50 overs, the highest in the final.
  • Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored 175 off 80 balls with 15 sixes and 15 fours.
  • Sooryavanshi’s 150 came in 71 deliveries, the fastest 150 in Under-19 cricket.
  • England were bowled out for 311 in 40.2 overs.
  • Caleb Falconer hit 115 off 66 balls and Ben Dawkins made 66 for England.
  • India’s earlier Under-19 titles came in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018 and 2022.
Pakistan U19 defeat India U19 to win ACC U19 Asia Cup 2025 (End of December) ▼
  • Pakistan U19 lifted the Under-19 Asia Cup title after outplaying India U19 by 191 runs at Dubai’s ICC academy ground.
  • Pakistan posted 327/8, propelled by Sameer Minhas’ 172-run knock; India were bowled out for 156 in reply.
  • Deepesh Devendran top-scored for India with 36 off 16 balls at No. 10.
East Bengal defeats APF FC to win inaugural SAFF Women's Club Championship (End of December) ▼
  • East Bengal FC clinched the title of the inaugural edition of the SAFF Women’s Club Championship with a dominant 3-0 win over hosts APF FC in the final at the Dasrath Stadium.
  • Ugandan star striker Fazila Ikwaput scored a brace while India international Shilky Devi Hemam netted once to complete the flawless campaign for the Moshal girls.
  • Fazila also won the golden boot with nine goals in five games.
  • Anthony Andrews’ side scored 14 goals and conceded none in their five matches during the tournament.
  • East Bengal thus became the first Indian women’s club to win an international tournament.
India finishes with nine golds at World Boxing Cup Finals (End of November) ▼
  • Indian boxers claimed medals in all 20 weight categories, finishing with nine gold, six silver and five bronze.
  • Seven women and two men delivered the golds for the host.
  • The host closed its World Boxing Cup Finals campaign on a high at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Indoor Stadium in Greater Noida on Thursday.
  • Minakshi (48kg) set the tone with another dominant show, outclassing three-time Asian Under-22 champion Farzona Fozilova 5-0.
  • Nikhat (51kg) produced a clear 5-0 victory over Worlds quarterfinalist Guo Yi Xuan.
  • Jaismine (57kg) edged Paris Olympics bronze medallist Wu Shih Yi 4-1.
  • Young Olympian Preeti Pawar delivered one of the wins of the day, upsetting Worlds medallist Sirine Charaabi 5-0 in the 54kg final.
  • Arundhati Choudhary (70kg) earned a hard-fought 5-0 win over Worlds bronze medallist Aziza Zokirova.
  • Nupur edged Oltinoy Sotimboeva 3-2 in a scrappy 80+kg final.
  • Parveen Hooda bt Ayaka Taguchi (Jpn) 3-2.
  • Former World youth champion Sachin Siwach (60kg) claimed a significant title with a 5-0 win over Worlds and Olympics medallist Munarbek Seiitbek Ullu.
  • Hitesh (70kg) added another gold with a tight 3-2 victory over Nurbek Mursal.

Magnus Carlsen wins inaugural Esports World Cup 2025 chess title

Key Updates:

  • The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) confirmed chess as one of 16 competitive titles for the first-ever Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC).
  • The ENC is scheduled to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2 November to 29 November 2026.
  • The chess tournament will feature 128 players and take place from 2 November to 8 November 2026.
  • Qualification for the event includes 64 players from Champions Chess Tour (CCT) rankings, 56 from online regional tournaments, and 8 Wildcard invitations.
  • The tournament format consists of 16 groups of eight players, leading to a 64-player knockout playoff using a Rapid 10+0 time control.
  • Regional qualifiers will be managed by Chess(dot)com in June 2026 across eight zones, including Middle East + India + Central Asia.
  • Magnus Carlsen won the first Esports World Cup chess title in 2025 representing Team Liquid.

Similar Coverage

Volodar Murzin defends FIDE World Rapid title; Magnus Carlsen & Ian Nepomniachtchi share FIDE World Blitz crown (Start of January) ▼
  • Volodar Murzin emerged as the World Rapid champion in 2024 after beating Alexander Grischuk.
  • Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi were the joint World Blitz champions.
  • The 2025 championships are hosted at Qatar University’s Sports and Events Complex in Doha.
  • Each of the Rapid and Blitz sections carries a €350,000 prize fund, with the winner taking home €70,000.
India announces squads for 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships (Start of February) ▼
  • The 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) will be held in Qingdao, China, from 4 February to 8 February 2026.
  • Lakshya Sen, the World number 13, will lead the Indian men's team which includes HS Prannoy, Kidambi Srikanth, Ayush Shetty, and Tharun Mannepalli.
  • The Indian men's doubles contingent features Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, Pruthvi Krishnamurthy Roy, Sai Pratheek K, and Hariharan Amsakarunan.
  • The Indian women's team will defend their title without PV Sindhu, who withdrew due to medical concerns as confirmed by the Badminton Association of India (BAI).
  • The women's singles squad consists of Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma, Rakshitha Sree Santhosh Ramraj, Malvika Bansod, and Surya Charisma Tamiri.
  • The women's doubles team includes Treesa Jolly, Gayatri Gopichand, Priya Konjengbam, Shruti Mishra, and Tanisha Crasto.
  • The Indian men's team is placed in Group C alongside Singapore and Japan, while the women's team is in Group Y with Myanmar and Thailand.
  • The tournament format allows the top two teams from each group to progress to the quarterfinals of the biennial continental event.
  • The event will be live-streamed on the Sony Sports Network and the official YouTube channel of Badminton Asia.
FIFA World Cup 2026 draw completes group stage lineup (Start of December) ▼
  • The draw placed 42 qualified teams and 22 play-off contenders into 12 groups for the expanded 48-team tournament.
  • Hosts Canada, Mexico and USA were drawn into Groups B, A and D respectively.
  • Curacao, the smallest nation ever to qualify, will face Germany in Group E.
  • Group L contains England, Croatia, Ghana and Panama; Group I features France, Senegal, Norway and a play-off winner.
  • The tournament opener on 11 June 2026 will see Mexico play South Africa in Mexico City.
  • The final will be held on 19 July 2026 in New Jersey.
India participates in 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships (Start of February) ▼
  • The 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) is a biennial continental event scheduled to be held in Qingdao, China.
  • The Badminton Association of India (BAI) confirmed that PV Sindhu withdrew from the women's team due to medical concerns.
  • The Indian women's team is the defending champion, having won the gold medal in the previous edition of the BATC held in Malaysia.
  • India's women's team is placed in Group Y alongside Myanmar and Thailand, while the men's team is in Group C with Singapore and Japan.
  • The men's squad includes Lakshya Sen, Ayush Shetty, Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy, Tharun Mannepalli, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, Pruthvi Krishnamurthy Roy, Sai Pratheek K, and Hariharan Amsakarunan.
  • The women's squad features Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma, Rakshitha Sree Santhosh Ramraj, Malvika Bansod, Surya Charisma Tamiri, Treesa Jolly, Gayatri Gopichand, Priya Konjengbam, Shruti Mishra, and Tanisha Crasto.
  • The tournament matches will be live-streamed on the Sony Sports Network and the official YouTube channel of Badminton Asia.

Meghana Sajjanar wins Bronze at Asian Championships

Key Updates:

  • Indian shooter Meghana Sajjanar clinched the individual bronze medal and team gold in the 10m air rifle competition at the Asian Championships held in New Delhi.
  • The 32-year-old athlete from Bengaluru achieved the podium finish while in the eighth month of her pregnancy.
  • Elavenil Valarivan won the individual gold medal in the event with a score of 252.0, while Misaki Nobata of Japan secured the silver medal.
  • Meghana Sajjanar maintained a score of 104.1 after the first ten shots and defeated compatriot Arya Borse to confirm her bronze medal.
  • This achievement follows her previous bronze medal win at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup held in Ningbo, China, in September 2025.
  • The athlete is scheduled to participate in the 10m mixed air rifle team event alongside Rudrankksh Patil before taking a competitive break.

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Esha Singh wins 10m air pistol gold at Asian Shooting Championships (Start of February) ▼
  • Esha Singh claimed the women’s 10m air pistol gold at the Asian Shooting Championships held at Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range in Delhi.
  • She defeated silver medallist Ching-yen Chen by a commanding margin of 4.8 points, finishing with a score of 239.8.
  • Singh had deliberately skipped four preceding domestic finals to undertake four days of mental preparation focused on visualising her finals routine.
  • India’s women’s 10m air pistol final also featured double Paris Olympics medallist Manu Bhaker, former world record holder Rhythm Sangwan and three-time 2025 World Cup winner Suruchi Phogat.
  • On the men’s side, 21-year-old Samrat Rana secured the Asian Championships bronze in 10m air pistol, adding to his 2025 World Championship gold and World Cup final medal.
Suruchi Phogat and Samrat Rana win silver in 10m air rifle mixed team at Asian Shooting Championship (Start of February) ▼
  • Suruchi Phogat and Samrat Rana secured the silver medal in the 10m air rifle mixed team event at the Asian Shooting Championship held at Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range.
  • The pair topped the qualification stage but faced a new four-team final format with elimination stages, differing from the previous playoff system.
  • Gold medallists were Kamalov Mukhammad and Nigina Saidkulova from Uzbekistan.
  • Phogat, aged 19, had won three of the four ISSF World Cups in 2025 and a gold at the World Cup finals.
  • Rana, aged 21, claimed a World Championship gold medal earlier, becoming only the third Indian to achieve this feat after Abhinav Bindra and Rudrankksh Patil.
China Tops Medal Tally at ISSF World Championship Rifle/Pistol 2025 (End of November) ▼
  • The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Championship Rifle/Pistol 2025 was held in Cairo, Egypt.
  • The championship featured 720 shooters from 70 National Olympic Committees (NOCs).
  • China topped the medal tally with 21 medals (12 gold, 7 silver, 2 bronze).
  • South Korea secured the second position with 14 medals (7 gold, 3 silver, 4 bronze).
  • India finished third with 13 medals (3 gold, 6 silver, 4 bronze).
  • Indian gold medalists included Samrat Rana in Men’s 10m Air Pistol, Ravinder Singh in Men’s 50m Standard Pistol, and the Men’s 10m Air Pistol Team.
  • Germany’s Jacob Hoffman set a new world record in the men’s target sprint event.
  • Poland’s Tomasz Bartnik won gold while equalling the world record in the men’s 300m rifle 3 positions.
  • China’s Yao Qianxun claimed gold by setting a new world record in the women’s 50m pistol.
  • China won gold with a team score of 1881.3, setting a new world record in the Men’s 50m Rifle Prone Team event.
  • Anish Bhanwala won silver in Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol, becoming the first Indian individual pistol shooter to medal in an Olympic event at the World Championships.
India hosts Asian Championship Rifle/Pistol 2026 in New Delhi (Start of February) ▼
  • The Asian Championship Rifle/Pistol 2026 is being held at the Dr. Karni Singh shooting range in New Delhi from 4 February to 13 February 2026.
  • A total of 311 athletes from 20 countries are participating in the 10-day continental competition across junior, senior, and youth categories.
  • India has fielded the largest squad of 118 athletes, while Kazakhstan has the second-largest contingent with 35 athletes.
  • The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) is organising the event with support from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
  • The competition features 30 medal sets and serves as an assessment for the upcoming Asian Games and the World Championships.
  • All finals of the championship are available for live streaming on the FanCode Over-The-Top (OTT) platform.

Top 10 wool producing states in India listed for FY24

Key Updates:

  • Rajasthan led India’s wool production in FY24 with 16,013.50 thousand kg, accounting for 47.53% of national output.
  • Jammu & Kashmir ranked second with 7,770 thousand kg (23.06%), followed by Karnataka third with 6,472 thousand kg.
  • The complete top 10 list is: Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Telangana, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana.
  • India’s total wool production in FY24 was 33.69 million kg, with Carpet Grade comprising 85%, Apparel Grade 5%, and Coarser Grade 10%.
  • Punjab recorded the highest annual growth rate at 22.04%, followed by Tamil Nadu at 17.19% and Gujarat at 3.20%.
  • India has 77.4 million sheep, the world’s second-largest sheep population, and ranks ninth globally in wool production.
  • Around 1.2 million people work in the organised wool sector and nearly 2 million in related industries, with carpet weaving alone employing about 0.3 million.

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Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026 themed with Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya (Start of February) ▼
  • The Surajkund International Crafts Mela is organized annually in February near the Delhi–Haryana border.
  • Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya are the designated partner states for the 2026 edition of the fair.
  • The event features the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative of Uttar Pradesh, showcasing regional specialities.
  • Specific products highlighted under the ODOP showcase include glass bangles from Firozabad, perfumes from Kannauj, and Black Pottery from Azamgarh.
  • The fair also displays Bhadohi carpets and traditional textiles such as Chikankari and Zardozi from Uttar Pradesh.
  • The mela serves as a platform for master artisans, weavers, and folk artists from across India and several international partner countries.
India hosts National Textiles Ministers’ Conference in Guwahati to weave growth, heritage and innovation (Start of January) ▼
  • The two-day National Textiles Ministers’ Conference commenced in Guwahati, Assam, organised by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
  • Theme of the Conference: “India’s Textiles: Weaving Growth, Heritage & Innovation”.
  • Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh urged States and UTs to formulate investor-friendly policies to attract greater investment in the textile sector.
  • Minister of State for Textiles Shri Pabitra Margherita stated India has set an ambitious target of building a USD 350 billion textile economy.
  • Handloom Census 2019–20 highlighted that the Northeastern region contributes around 52 per cent of the country’s total handloom output.
  • Report released: India’s Textile Atlas: State Compendium 2025.
National Strategy for India’s Textiles: Target of USD 350 Billion Industry and USD 100 Billion Exports by 2030 (Start of January) ▼
  • The Ministry of Textiles (MoT) is organizing a national conference to deliberate on a coordinated national strategy for positioning India as a global textiles manufacturing hub.
  • The MoT deliberations align with the national vision of developing a USD 350 billion textile industry and achieving USD 100 billion in textile exports by 2030.
  • A conclave on "‘Strengthening and Empowering the Textiles Sector of the North-Eastern Region of India’" will focus on silk, handloom, and bamboo-based textiles.
  • The initiative focuses on revitalising traditional textiles with emphasis on handloom and handicrafts for modern markets and the promotion of women-led enterprises.
District-Led Textiles Transformation (DLTT) initiative to create Global Export Champions and self-reliant hubs (Mid of January) ▼
  • Ministry of Textiles unveiled the District-Led Textiles Transformation (DLTT) initiative to transform 100 high-potential districts into Global Export Champions and elevate 100 Aspirational Districts into self-reliant hubs.
  • Districts were categorized into Champion Districts and Aspirational Districts using a data-driven scoring methodology based on Export Performance, MSME Ecosystem, and Workforce Presence.
  • Champion Districts interventions include upgrading to Mega Common Facility Centres, integrating Industry 4.0, and facilitating direct Export Market Linkages.
  • Aspirational Districts interventions include basic skilling and certification, establishing Raw Material Banks, and promoting micro-enterprises through Self-Help Groups and Cooperatives.
  • The initiative emphasizes Purvodaya convergence in east and northeast zones for tribal belt development, connectivity improvement, and Geographical Indication tagging of cultural handicrafts.