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Sunday, May 10

Daily Current Affairs: 10 May 2026

Analysis for 10 May 2026

Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) asks states to shift GSDP base year to 2022-23

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released guidelines for compiling Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) with the base year 2022-23.
  • MoSPI revised the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) base year to 2022-23 from the previous base year of 2011-12.
  • The guidelines prioritise greater data integration by incorporating administrative records, sectoral databases, and survey inputs to improve the reliability of GSDP and Gross State Value Added (GSVA) estimates.
  • Currently, 34 states and Union Territories compile GSDP estimates using the 2011-12 base year, excluding Lakshadweep and Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu.
  • A sub-committee on regional accounts, chaired by former Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad professor Ravindra H Dholakia, was constituted under the Advisory Committee on National Accounts Statistics to facilitate the transition.

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S&P Global (S&P) and Crisil Lower India’s FY27 GDP Growth Projection to 6.6% (Start of May) ▼
  • S&P Global (S&P) has lowered India’s economic growth projection for the financial year 2026-27 (FY27) to 6.6% from its earlier estimate of 7.1%.
  • The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth for the financial year ended March 2026 (FY26) has been pegged at 7.6%.
  • Crisil Chief Economist Dharmakirti Joshi stated that disruption in energy supplies is likely to push India’s retail inflation to 5.1% in FY27 from around 2% the previous year.
  • India’s annual GDP growth averaged 7.3% between FY23 and FY26, while the fiscal deficit was reduced from 9.2% in 2020-21 to 4.4% in 2025-26.
  • The report noted that Wholesale Price Index (WPI) based inflation is likely to surpass Consumer Price Index (CPI) based retail inflation in the coming months.
Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) revises India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) base year to 2022–23 (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has updated the base year for India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 2011–12 to 2022–23.
  • The updated GDP series was officially released on 27 February 2026 and utilises the National Industrial Classification (NIC)-2025 for expanded coverage of economic activities.
  • The base year for the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) has also been revised to 2022–23 to reflect the current industrial structure and manufacturing output.
  • The Consumer Price Index (CPI) 2024 series now employs Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) for digital data collection through handheld devices.
  • The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) system has been modernised with secure online data transmission and real-time submission of price data for improved verification.
  • MoSPI has introduced nowcasting techniques to estimate current economic performance using high-frequency indicators such as GST collections, electricity consumption, and bank credit growth.
  • The Economic Survey 2025–26 presents a framework that combines high-frequency indicators to estimate GDP growth in near real-time.
  • Key indicators used for economic monitoring include railway freight, port cargo traffic, and the Manufacturing and Services Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI).
Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to release new GDP, CPI, IIP series with revised base years (Mid of February) ▼
  • The government will release the new GDP series on 27 February 2026, the new CPI series on 12 February 2026, and the new IIP series on 28 May 2026.
  • The GDP base year has been revised to 2022-23 to reflect current economic structures.
  • The CPI base year has been revised to 2024, updating the consumption basket and weights for rural and urban households.
  • The IIP base year has been revised to 2022-23 and aligned with the new national accounts series.
  • Base year revision is guided by respective Technical Advisory Committees comprising experts from Academia, Central and State governments, and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
  • CPI and GDP follow the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Special Data Dissemination Standards (SDDS) covering coverage, periodicity, timeliness, public access, integrity, and quality of data.
Revised GDP series raises FY27 fiscal deficit ratio to 4.46% and debt-to-GDP to 57.5% (Mid of March) ▼
  • The new GDP series (FY23 base) pegs FY26 nominal GDP at ₹345.47 lakh crore, 3.3% lower than the budget estimate based on the old series.
  • With a 10% nominal growth assumed for FY27, the targeted fiscal deficit of ₹16.96 lakh crore equals 4.46% of GDP against the budgeted 4.31%.
  • The FY26 fiscal deficit target becomes 4.51% of GDP instead of 4.36% unless the absolute deficit is cut.
  • The FY24 and FY25 fiscal deficit ratios are revised upwards to 5.7% and almost 4.95% of GDP from 5.5% and 4.8% respectively.
  • The debt-to-GDP ratio for FY27 is now estimated at 57.5%, 1.9 percentage points higher than the budgeted 55.6%.
  • ICRA chief economist Aditi Nayar stated the consolidation path to FY31 is relatively steeper under the new series.
  • India Ratings chief economist DK Pant said fiscal consolidation and nominal growth rates must be stronger than previously assumed to meet targets.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Approves Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd (KMBL) to Acquire 9.99% Stake in AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) and Federal Bank

Key Updates:

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted approval to Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd (KMBL) to acquire an aggregate holding of up to 9.99 per cent in AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB).
  • KMBL also received the RBI nod to acquire up to 9.99 per cent of the paid-up share capital or voting rights in Federal Bank.
  • The approval letters from the RBI regarding these acquisitions were received by both AU SFB and Federal Bank on 6 May 2026.
  • The Kotak Mahindra Group, comprising KMBL and its subsidiaries, is authorised to hold these stakes through their managed funds and schemes.
  • Following the announcement, shares of AU SFB traded at ₹1,034.60, Federal Bank at ₹297.40, and KMBL at ₹380.40 on the BSE.

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State Bank of India (SBI) expects lending of ₹70,000-80,000 crore under ECLGS 5.0 (Start of May) ▼
  • State Bank of India (SBI) expects eligible customer utilisation under the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0 to be in the range of ₹70,000-80,000 crore.
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will facilitate an underwriting auction for government securities worth ₹34,000 crore on 8th May.
  • Kotak Mahindra Bank received approval from the RBI to acquire up to 9.99% stake in AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB).
  • Axis Bank raised $500 million in an offshore loan from MUFG.
  • Union Bank shed approximately ₹75,000 crore in bulk deposits in FY26, including ₹30,000 crore in Q4.
Competition Commission of India (CCI) Approves MUFG Bank Stake Acquisition in Shriram Finance (End of March) ▼
  • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposal by Japan's MUFG Bank Ltd to acquire a stake in Shriram Finance Limited.
  • MUFG Bank, a part of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc (MUFG), will acquire a 20 per cent minority stake in the non-bank lender for ₹39,618 crore (approximately USD 4.4 billion).
  • The transaction represents the largest cross-border investment in India's financial sector to date.
  • Shriram Finance Limited is classified as an investment and credit company by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and categorised as an NBFC-Upper Layer.
  • The CCI also approved the acquisition of Groww Asset Management Ltd by State Street Global Advisors, Inc., which is a subsidiary of State Street Corporation (SSC).
  • Groww Asset Management is a wholly owned subsidiary of Billionbrains Garage Ventures and manages various schemes of Groww Mutual Fund (Groww MF).
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approves Emirates NBD's 60% stake acquisition in RBL Bank (Start of April) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Emirates NBD Bank's proposed acquisition of a 60% stake in RBL Bank.
  • Emirates NBD Bank will acquire the stake for approximately Rs 26,853 crore, marking the largest takeover of an Indian lender by a foreign financial institution.
  • The transaction includes amalgamation of Emirates NBD's India operations with RBL Bank, subject to regulatory clearances.
  • Emirates NBD will launch a mandatory open offer to acquire up to 26% of RBL Bank's expanded voting share capital at Rs 280 per share, covering around 415.58 million shares.
  • The open offer is expected to commence as early as next week, pending approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi).
Indian Railway Finance Corporation Ltd (IRFC) raises JPY-equivalent $400 million overseas loan (End of February) ▼
  • The Indian Railway Finance Corporation Ltd (IRFC) has signed a loan agreement for a JPY-equivalent $400 million External Commercial Borrowing (ECB).
  • The loan was raised from a consortium comprising Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), GIFT City Branch, and MUFG Bank Ltd, GIFT City Branch.
  • The ECB has a five-year tenor and is benchmarked to the Tokyo Overnight Average Rate (TONAR).
  • This transaction marks the second overseas borrowing for IRFC in Financial Year 2025-26 (FY26), following a $300 million raise in December 2025.
  • The facility agreement was executed on February 25, 2026, and the loan is unsecured in nature.
  • The proceeds will be utilised for financing projects with forward or backward linkages to the railway sector or other projects compliant with ECB guidelines.

Jharkhand Achieves Zero Primary Dropout Rate in 2024-25

Key Updates:

  • Jharkhand recorded a 0% primary dropout rate in 2024-25 according to data from the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) and a NITI Aayog report released on 8 May 2026.
  • The primary dropout rate fell from 6.41% in 2014-15 and above 11% in 2022-23 to zero for both boys and girls.
  • The upper primary dropout rate declined from 7.42% in 2014-15 to 1.7% in 2024-25, while the secondary dropout rate reduced from 23.2% to 3.5% during the same period.
  • Jharkhand ranked fourth nationally in reducing secondary school dropouts.
  • Primary Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) declined from 109.2% in 2014-15 to 92.5% in 2024-25, while secondary GER improved from 66.05% to 72%.

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Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI) releases Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Annual Report 2025 (Start of April) ▼
  • Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for persons aged 15 years and above stood at 59.3% in 2025.
  • LFPR for males was 79.1% and for females 40.0%.
  • Workforce Participation Rate (WPR) for persons aged 15 years and above was 57.4%.
  • WPR for males was 76.6% and for females 38.8%.
  • Unemployment rate (UR) for persons aged 15 years and above was 3.1% in 2025.
  • Rural unemployment rate was 2.4% and urban unemployment rate was 4.8%.
  • Youth unemployment rate (15–29 years) declined from 10.3% in 2024 to 9.9% in 2025.
  • Share of self-employed workers declined from 57.5% in 2024 to 56.2% in 2025.
  • Share of regular wage/salaried employment increased to 23.6% in 2025.
  • Share of employment in agriculture declined from 44.8% in 2024 to 43.0% in 2025.
  • Share of employment in manufacturing increased from 11.6% to 12.1%.
  • Share of employment in services increased from 12.2% to 13.1%.
  • 44.4% of females cited childcare and domestic responsibilities as the main reason for not participating in the labour force.
  • 69.8% of males cited education as the main reason for not being in the labour force.
  • Average years of formal education for persons aged 15 years and above was 10.0 years.
  • 67.8% of the population had attained at least secondary education.
  • Only 4.2% of persons aged 15–59 years had received formal vocational or technical training.
  • 25.0% of persons aged 15–29 years were not in employment, education or training (NEET).
  • Total number of employed persons aged 15 years and above was estimated at 61.6 crore.
Mahila Khushhali Yojana launched for women engaged in agricultural activities with Rs 25 crore allocation in Jharkhand FY27 budget. (End of February) ▼
  • The Jharkhand government tabled a Rs 1,58,560 crore budget for FY 2026-27 in the assembly.
  • Finance Minister Radhishna Kishore announced the launch of the Mahila Khushhali Yojna for women farmers with an allocation of Rs 25 crore.
  • The budget for FY27 is higher than the previous year's Rs 1.45 lakh crore budget presented in 2025-26.
  • The state government plans to open 100 new CM schools of excellence in the next fiscal.
Mahila Khushhali Yojna launched for women farmers in Jharkhand with ₹25 crore allocation. (End of February) ▼
  • Jharkhand Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore tabled a ₹1,58,560 crore budget for FY 2026-27.
  • The budget introduced the Mahila Khushhali Yojna for women engaged in agricultural activities with an allocation of ₹25 crore.
  • 100 new CM schools of excellence will be opened in the next fiscal.
Haryana to launch CM Shri Schools for quality education under CBSE framework (End of February) ▼
  • The Haryana government is set to introduce CM Shri Schools modeled after the central government's PM Shri Schools.
  • These institutions will operate under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) framework and aim to embody the National Education Policy-2020 (NEP-2020).
  • The schools will focus on providing quality education, holistic development, and building 21st-century skills to serve as benchmark institutions.
  • The Education Department of Haryana has reserved 25% of entry-level class seats in private schools for students from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
  • According to Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda, 11,803 students were admitted to private institutions under the EWS reservation scheme last year.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U 2.0): Odisha Leads in Housing Completions

Key Updates:

  • Odisha has maintained the top national ranking for completed houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U 2.0) since March 2025.
  • The state of Odisha has delivered 2,008 affordable urban homes as of the latest reporting period.
  • The PMAY-U 2.0 scheme is central to the national target of ensuring Housing for All by 2028.
  • Progress under the scheme aims to catalyse credit flows through the National Housing Bank (NHB) and create demand for affordable-housing bonds.
  • The central government monitors subsidy disbursement patterns under the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) as part of the programme.

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Moving Towards Effective City Government Roadmap: Urban Governance Reforms (End of April) ▼
  • The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) released a roadmap titled “Moving Towards Effective City Government” to strengthen city governments in India’s million-plus cities.
  • The report was unveiled by the Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar.
  • The roadmap proposes the introduction of directly elected mayors with fixed terms to increase accountability to the public.
  • It recommends integrating essential services, including water, sanitation, and public transport, under a single accountable city authority to reduce delays.
  • The report suggests strengthening municipal finances through increased local revenue generation, timely transfers from states, and access to municipal bonds.
  • According to Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) data, India has over 1.12 crore registered housing units with approximately 1.91 lakh complaints filed by buyers.
  • In Maharashtra, over 54,000 projects are registered, covering nearly 48 lakh housing units.
  • The report states that improving urban governance is essential for India to achieve its goal of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047.
Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (HUDCO) and NBCC (India) Limited sign two MoUs for Delhi redevelopment and asset monetisation. (Mid of April) ▼
  • HUDCO and NBCC (India) Limited (NBCC) signed two MoUs on 11 April 2026.
  • First MoU covers redevelopment of leasehold plot of approx. 18,830 sq mt at Block No. 25, August Kranti Bhawan, Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi.
  • First MoU includes techno-economic feasibility study, construction, project management, and monetisation of built-up space.
  • Second MoU focuses on asset monetisation for NBCC's self-sustainable model projects.
  • HUDCO will provide funds for ongoing and upcoming NBCC projects with permission of Government of India.
  • NBCC will provide project management and consultancy services under the agreements.
  • Each MoU is valid for 2 years from execution date and is subject to annual review.
  • Either party can exit the MoUs by giving one month's written notice.
Motilal Oswal Home Finance signs USD 100 million debt deal with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for women-focused, affordable, green housing. (Start of March) ▼
  • Motilal Oswal Home Finance will raise USD 100 million in rupee-equivalent non-convertible debentures from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
  • Part of the funds will provide affordable housing loans to women borrowers.
  • Ten per cent of the proceeds will finance residential units that meet recognised green building certification standards.
  • Women currently account for only 13 per cent of homeowners according to ADB.
  • During the first nine months of FY26 Motilal Oswal Home Finance disbursed Rs 1,303 crore.
  • Gross NPA stood at 1.43 per cent as of December 2025.
India secures 2nd rank globally in LEED-certified green building space outside United States in 2025. (Start of February) ▼
  • 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.

Census of India 2026-27: First Digital Census and QR-Enabled Enumerator Verification

Key Updates:

  • The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is conducting the first digital Census of India, which includes the first-ever enumeration of caste and a self-enumeration option.
  • Lalit Jain, the Director of Census Operations (DCO) for Haryana, stated that enumerators have been issued identity cards with Quick Response (QR) codes to allow residents to verify their authenticity.
  • According to Section 8(2) of the Census Act, 1948, every resident is legally bound to answer Census-related questions to the best of their knowledge or belief.
  • The first phase of the Census commenced on 1 April 2026 and is scheduled to conclude by 30 September 2026, while the second phase for Population Enumeration is set for February 2027.
  • Door-to-door visits are currently under way in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Delhi (NDMC and Delhi Cantonment Board areas), Goa, Haryana, Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Odisha, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand.

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Census 2027 (CMMS) approved with ₹11,718 crore outlay for India’s first fully digital headcount (Start of March) ▼
  • The Union Cabinet approved ₹11,718 crore for Census 2027 which will be India’s first fully digital headcount using the Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS).
  • CMMS is a dedicated web-based platform that will handle end-to-end Census operations including user creation, training modules, housing listing blocks, allocation of 3.2 million enumerators and supervisors, and near-real-time field monitoring.
  • For the first time the Census will include caste enumeration and offer citizens an option for self-enumeration.
  • The exercise will run in two phases: house listing and housing census from April to September 2026, followed by population enumeration in February 2027.
  • Villages and urban wards will be divided into houselisting blocks (HLBs) each covering 700–800 residents, with boundaries geo-tagged through the HLBC Web Mapping Application to reduce overlaps and omissions.
Worldline India records UPI transactions at 228.5 billion and QR base crossing 731 million in 2025 (Start of April) ▼
  • UPI processed 228.5 billion transactions in 2025, registering a 33% year-on-year increase.
  • UPI transaction value rose 21% to ₹299.74 trillion in 2025.
  • Average UPI ticket size declined to ₹1,314 in 2025 from ₹1,437 in 2024.
  • UPI QR deployments crossed 731 million in 2025, up from over 633 million in 2024.
  • PoS terminals grew 15% year-on-year to 11.48 million in 2025.
  • Total card transactions reached ₹28.73 trillion in 2025, up 6% year-on-year.
  • Credit card transaction value increased 11% to ₹23.65 trillion in 2025.
  • Credit card transaction volumes rose 27% to 5.69 billion in 2025.
  • Debit card transaction volumes fell 23% and transaction value declined 13% in 2025.
  • Bharat BillPay transaction volumes rose 40% to 3.05 billion in 2025.
  • Bharat BillPay transaction value nearly doubled to ₹14.84 trillion in 2025.
Census 2027: Launch of Toll-free Helpline and WhatsApp Chatbot (End of April) ▼
  • The Registrar General of India (RGI) launched a national toll-free helpline, 1855, and a WhatsApp chatbot for Census 2027.
  • The multi-lingual service is designed to support enumerators, supervisors, and the general public.
  • Census 2027 is the eighth Census since Independence and is the first to be fully digital with self-enumeration options.
  • The first phase, Housing Listing and Housing Enumeration (HLO), is scheduled from April to September 2026.
  • The second phase, population enumeration, is set for February 2027.
  • Specific queries will be forwarded to the respective state Directorate of Census Operations for resolution.
UIDAI launches first structured Bug Bounty Programme to strengthen Aadhaar System Security (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) launched its first structured Bug Bounty Programme to further strengthen the security of the Aadhaar system.
  • The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) stated that the programme allows cyber security experts to look for possible weaknesses in some of UIDAI’s key digital platforms.
  • A panel of 20 experienced security researchers and ethical hackers has been selected to take part in the initiative.
  • They will examine UIDAI digital assets such as UIDAI official website, myAadhaar portal and the Secure QR Code application.

Second Regional Conference on Cooperative Reforms to expand cooperative movement in North-East

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Cooperation organised the Second Regional Conference on Cooperative Reforms in Aizawl, Mizoram, to advance the "Sahkar se Samriddhi" vision.
  • The conference included representatives from all North-Eastern states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim.
  • Participating national institutions included the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India (NCCF), National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFi).
  • The Ministry is working to standardise technology platforms across nearly 1,500 urban cooperative banks nationwide to improve efficiency and lower operational costs.
  • Under the World's Largest Grain Storage Plan, the Ministry is collaborating with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to streamline storage and improve Public Distribution System efficiency.
  • The "Bharat Organics" initiative was highlighted to support branding, packaging, and export facilitation for farmers and cooperatives.
  • The North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFi) has been sanctioned a project to conduct a detailed study on cooperative sector revival in three North-Eastern states.

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CPA India Region Zone VII Conference focuses on transparent and inclusive governance (Mid of April) ▼
  • Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla addressed the inaugural session of the First CPA India Region Zone VII Conference in Goa.
  • The conference brought together legislators from Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat under the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region.
  • Shri Birla urged lawmakers to rise above personal and political interests to fulfil public aspirations.
  • He described young lawmakers as central to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
  • The CPA Zone VII comprises Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa.
40th edition of AAHAR – The International Food & Hospitality Fair inaugurated on 11 March 2026 (Mid of March) ▼
  • The 40th edition of AAHAR – The International Food & Hospitality Fair was inaugurated on 11 March 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
  • Italy is the partner country for the 40th edition, marking the first time the fair has featured a partner country.
  • The event is organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and spans an area of 125,000 square metres.
  • The fair features 1,800 participants, including 155 international participants from 17 countries.
  • Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal noted that India is the seventh largest exporter of agricultural produce globally.
  • India’s annual food and agricultural exports have reached nearly ₹5 lakh crore, exceeding USD 55 billion.
  • The official AAHAR digital app was introduced to facilitate QR-enabled interactions, B2B networking, and hall navigation.
  • The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry will provide support to exporters under the Export Promotion Mission.
  • India has concluded nine Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) over the past three and a half years, providing preferential market access to 38 countries.
Samriddh Gram Initiative nominated for WSIS Prizes 2026 (End of April) ▼
  • The Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model is enabled by BharatNet, an initiative of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
  • The initiative has been nominated for the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes 2026 under the Action Line AL C6: Enabling Environment category.
  • The project establishes Samriddhi Kendras as one-stop community hubs providing integrated services in healthcare, education, agriculture, governance, financial inclusion, and e-commerce.
  • The model utilizes high-speed broadband, Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connectivity, and public Wi-Fi to enable telemedicine, smart classrooms, and digital governance services.
  • Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurated India's first Samriddhi Kendra at Umri Village in Guna district, Madhya Pradesh.
  • The WSIS Forum 2026 is scheduled to be held from 6–10 July 2026 in Geneva.
NITI Aayog–JICA Phase II pact for SDG push in Aspirational Districts and Blocks (Start of March) ▼
  • NITI Aayog and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed the Record of Discussions for Phase II of the Japan–India Cooperative Actions towards Sustainable Development Goals.
  • The agreement was signed in the presence of Rohit Kumar, Additional Secretary and Mission Director of the Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme at NITI Aayog, and Takeuchi Takuro, Chief Representative, JICA India.
  • Phase II focuses on institutional capacity-building and improving governance systems at district and block levels under the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) and Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP).
  • The initiative covers six themes: global partnership, health and nutrition, education, agriculture and water resources, financial inclusion and skill development, and basic infrastructure.
  • Key activities include capacity-building exchanges, Japan–India knowledge forums, identification and dissemination of best practices, and targeted support to selected Aspirational Districts and Blocks.

Jan Suraksha Schemes reach 94.5 Crore Cumulative Enrolments on 11th Anniversary

Key Updates:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched three Jan Suraksha Schemes—Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and Atal Pension Yojana (APY)—on May 9, 2015.
  • The cumulative enrolments under these three social security schemes reached 94.5 crore as of April 30, 2026, marking their 11th anniversary.
  • PMJJBY recorded more than 27.43 crore enrolments and settled claims worth over ₹21,500 crore for more than 10.7 lakh families.
  • PMSBY achieved over 58.09 crore enrolments and settled claims amounting to nearly ₹3,660 crore for over 1.84 lakh families.
  • APY saw more than 9.04 crore individuals enrolling in the scheme to receive pension support as of April 30, 2026.

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Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2026 celebrated on 7 March to promote affordable generic medicines (Start of March) ▼
  • Jan Aushadhi Diwas is observed every year on 7 March to raise awareness about the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
  • PMBJP was launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, in collaboration with Central Pharma Public Sector Undertakings.
  • The scheme provides quality generic medicines at affordable prices through dedicated outlets called Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK).
  • Week-long events are organised across the country from 1 to 7 March to support the initiative.
Kerala launches Sthree Suraksha scheme with ₹1,000 monthly pension (Mid of February) ▼
  • Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the Sthree Suraksha Scheme on 11 February 2026 at Malayinkeezhu, Thiruvananthapuram.
  • The scheme provides ₹1,000 per month to 10,18,042 women and transwomen beneficiaries.
  • Eligible beneficiaries are women aged 35 to 60 who are economically backward and not receiving other social welfare pensions, as well as trans women.
  • The first month’s payment was transferred to the cleared beneficiaries on the afternoon of 10 February 2026.
Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) receives Rs 1.51 lakh crore additional outlay with digital mapping (Mid of March) ▼
  • Union Cabinet approved an additional Rs 1.51 lakh crore for Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) till 2028.
  • Total scheme outlay till 2028 set at Rs 8.70 lakh crore, with Centre’s share of Rs 3.59 lakh crore including Rs 2.08 lakh crore allocated in 2019.
  • National digital framework ‘Sujalam Bharat’ will map the drinking water supply system from source to tap.
  • Every village will be assigned a unique Sujal Gaon/Service Area ID under the new digital framework.
  • Gram Panchayats and Village Water & Sanitation Committees will certify works and declare ‘Har Ghar Jal’ only after confirming in-village operation and maintenance mechanisms.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) Extended with Revised Outlay of ₹83,977 Crore (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) until March 2028.
  • The total financial outlay for the scheme has been revised to ₹83,977 crore, marking an increase from the previous allocation of ₹80,250 crore.
  • The extension aims to complete rural road and bridge projects to improve connectivity to agricultural markets, higher secondary schools, and hospitals.
  • Infrastructure works in plain areas and roads in hilly regions are scheduled for completion by March 2028, while bridge construction in hilly areas has been extended until March 2029.
  • The government will sanction and implement 161 long-span bridges along approved road alignments at an estimated cost of ₹961 crore.
  • Projects sanctioned before 31 March 2025 that have not yet been awarded are now eligible for tendering and execution under the extended period.

School Education System in India Policy Report: 13 Recommendations and 125 Performance Indicators

Key Updates:

  • National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) released a policy report titled School Education System in India: Temporal Analysis and Policy Roadmap for Quality Enhancement.
  • The report presents a decade-long analysis of the Indian school education system across parameters including access, enrolment, infrastructure, equity, inclusion, and learning outcomes.
  • It provides a roadmap consisting of 13 recommendations, comprising eight systemic and five academic reforms focused on composite schools and evidence-based rationalisation.
  • The policy document outlines 33 implementation pathways structured across short, medium, and long-term horizons with identified actors at Central, State, and local levels.
  • It includes over 125 measurable Performance Success Indicators to track progress and features case studies of good practices from Central, State, and District levels.

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Dr R Balasubramaniam and Dr Joram Aniya Appointed Full-Time Members of National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) (Start of May) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the appointment of Dr R Balasubramaniam and Dr Joram Aniya as full-time members of National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog).
  • Dr Joram Aniya's inclusion marks a historic moment as she brings an eminent intellectual voice from Arunachal Pradesh to national policymaking.
  • She is the first woman from the Nyishi community to earn a PhD and the first in Hindi language in the state.
  • She has over 18 years of experience in teaching, research, and public policy and serves as an Associate Professor and member of the Arunachal Pradesh Private Educational Regulatory Commission.
  • The appointments take effect from the date of assumption of charge and until further orders, on terms applicable to full-time members.
Supreme Court seeks Centre and states' response on PIL over RTE Act and NEP 2020 implementation. (Mid of April) ▼
  • Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice and Justice Joymalya Bagchi issued notices to Centre, all states and Union Territories on PIL by advocate Haripriya Patel.
  • PIL alleges uneven implementation of Right to Education (RTE) Act across states since its enactment over a decade ago.
  • Petition highlights disparities in National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 rollout with states following different timelines and approaches.
  • Plea urges bringing pre-primary education within enforceable ambit of RTE Act to ensure foundational learning rights.
CM Shri Schools project launched across Delhi (Mid of February) ▼
  • Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the first CM Shri School at Sarojini Nagar on 17 February 2026.
  • Foundation stones for 75 CM Shri School projects across Delhi were laid simultaneously.
  • The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) and aims to provide modern, technology-integrated education and improved learning infrastructure.
  • Education minister Ashish Sood announced that 7,000 classrooms will be converted into AI-enabled smart classrooms before the government completes its first year in office.
  • 175 new ICT labs equipped with 7,000 computers, more than 100 digital libraries and over 175 language labs are being launched.
  • The schools will serve children from economically weaker, lower and middle-income families with facilities comparable to private schools.
NITI Aayog and UNICEF India sign SOI to improve maternal and child nutrition in aspirational districts and blocks (Start of March) ▼
  • NITI Aayog and UNICEF India signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to support strategic interventions in aspirational districts and aspirational blocks.
  • The SOI was signed by Rohit Kumar, Additional Secretary and Mission Director of the Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme at NITI Aayog, and Arjan de Wagt, Deputy Representative at UNICEF India.
  • UNICEF India will provide technical expertise and channel CSR funds into nutrition-focused initiatives through its platform IMPAct4Nutrition (I4N).
  • The partnership will focus on strengthening Anganwadi infrastructure, enhancing nutrition literacy, improving uptake of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and building capacity of frontline workers.
  • The agreement aims to promote multi-stakeholder engagement and strengthen implementation systems for nutrition and health interventions at the block level.

India advances BRICS MSME cooperation agenda under its 2026 chairship

Key Updates:

  • India has initiated a renewed agenda for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) cooperation under its 2026 chairship of BRICS.
  • The Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) is tasked with organising three Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Working Group meetings and the inaugural BRICS MSME Forum under the BRICS Partnership on the New Industrial Revolution (PartNIR).
  • The first SME Working Group meeting was conducted virtually on April 24 with the theme of Access to Finance for MSMEs.
  • The meeting focused on bridging the MSME credit gap through financial inclusion, financial literacy, credit readiness, and fintech-driven ecosystems.
  • Delegates from all BRICS member countries participated in the discussions to share policy approaches and best practices for enhancing institutional capacities.

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India and Brazil sign agreement on critical minerals and rare earths in New Delhi on 21 February 2026 (End of February) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed a landmark agreement to boost cooperation on critical minerals and rare earths at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.
  • The agreement aims to build resilient supply chains for minerals used in electric vehicles, solar panels, smartphones, jet engines, and guided missiles to reduce dependence on China.
  • Brazil is the world's second-largest holder of critical minerals and the second-largest producer and exporter of iron ore after Australia.
  • A total of 10 agreements were signed, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering digital cooperation and health.
  • The leaders set a target to increase bilateral trade beyond $20 billion within the next five years, noting that Brazil is currently India's largest trading partner in Latin America.
  • According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), Indian exports to Brazil reached $7.23 billion in 2024, with refined petroleum as the main export.
  • Brazilian exports to India totalled $5.38 billion in 2024, with raw sugar being the primary export commodity.
India to host 4th India-Africa Forum Summit on May 31 (Start of May) ▼
  • India will host the 4th India-Africa Forum Summit on May 31, marking the first such event in a decade.
  • The theme of the summit is 'India Africa Strategic Partnership for Innovation, Resilience and Inclusive Transformation (IA SPIRIT)'.
  • The main summit will be followed by the Big Cat Alliance summit, which is expected to see participation from around 10 African countries.
  • Africa is currently the second-largest recipient of India's overseas development partnership support.
  • India has extended over 190 lines of credit (LoCs) amounting to over $10 billion to 41 African countries.
  • India has completed 20 projects worth $4.5 billion in priority sectors: power, water supply, agriculture, transport, rural electrification, and digital connectivity.
India to host BRICS Agriculture Ministers' meeting in Indore from June 12 to 13 (Start of May) ▼
  • The meeting of agriculture ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) will be held in Indore from June 12 to 13 under India's presidency.
  • A three-day meeting of officials under the BRICS agriculture working group will be conducted in Indore from June 9 to 11.
  • The gathering will deliberate on food security, farmer welfare, nutrition, climate-resilient smart agriculture, facilitation of international agricultural trade, supply chains, digital agriculture, research, knowledge exchange, artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics.
  • BRICS nations account for approximately 42 per cent of the world's agricultural land, 68 per cent of farmers, and 45 per cent of global grain production.
  • The Madhya Pradesh government has declared 2026 as Agriculture Welfare Year.
India chairs BRICS MENA meeting in New Delhi on 24 April 2026 (Start of May) ▼
  • Dr. Neena Malhotra, Secretary South of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), chaired the meeting of BRICS Deputy Foreign Ministers and Special Envoys for the Middle East and North Africa (BRICS MENA) in New Delhi.
  • The discussions focused on the Palestine issue, the Gaza situation, the provision of humanitarian aid, and the role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
  • The meeting emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, welcomed the ceasefire in Lebanon, and addressed the unacceptability of attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
  • The participants discussed post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation in Syria.
  • The meeting covered the political settlement in Yemen, stability and development in Iraq, the political process in Libya, and the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

India Hosts 35th ISO Technical Committee Meeting on Space Systems in New Delhi

Key Updates:

  • The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is hosting the 35th Plenary and Working Groups meetings of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee 20/Subcommittee 14 in New Delhi.
  • The subcommittee is responsible for developing global standards for Space Systems and Operations, including design, manufacturing, launch, and orbital management.
  • Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare highlighted that policy reforms and the creation of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) have advanced private sector participation.
  • The meeting focuses on critical industry challenges such as space debris mitigation, orbital congestion, and the long-term sustainability of outer space activities.
  • Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) Chairman Pawan Goenka stated that robust international standards are essential for driving innovation and integrating India into the global space economy.

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India hosts first-ever International Ophthalmology Research Summit in New Delhi on 9 May 2026 (Start of May) ▼
  • The Armed Forces hosted the first-ever International Ophthalmology Research Summit.
  • The conference is designated as AIOS-AFOU 2026.
  • Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth inaugurated the landmark conference.
  • The event was conducted in New Delhi.
  • The summit took place on Saturday, 9 May 2026.
India elected to four subsidiary bodies of United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) (Mid of April) ▼
  • India was elected by acclamation to the Commission on Science and Technology for Development for the term 2027-2030.
  • India was elected by acclamation to the Committee on Non-Governmental Organisations for the term 2027-2030.
  • India was elected by acclamation to the Committee for Programme and Coordination for the term 2027-2029.
  • Ambassador Preeti Saran was re-elected to the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights for the term 2027-2030.
India and Italy agree for urgent implementation of initiative to counter terror financing (End of March) ▼
  • India and Italy agreed on expeditious implementation of the India-Italy Joint Initiative to Counter Financing of Terrorism during the 9th India-Italy Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in New Delhi on March 20.
  • The Indian delegation was led by Sibi George, Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
  • The Italian delegation was led by Ambassador Nicoletta Bombardiere, Director General for Globalisation and Global Issues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
  • Both sides expressed satisfaction on progress of the Joint Strategic Action Plan (JSAP) 2025-29 in sectors including trade, technology, space, defence, counter-terrorism and renewable energy.
  • First Maritime Security Dialogue is being planned to enhance maritime collaboration.
India launches logo, theme, and website for 4th India-Africa Forum Summit 2026 (End of April) ▼
  • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar launched the logo, theme, and website of the 4th India-Africa Forum Summit in New Delhi.
  • The summit is scheduled to take place from May 28 to May 31.
  • The event will focus on expanding cooperation in digital technology, fintech, innovation, sustainability, and global governance.
  • India is expanding its diplomatic missions in Africa.
  • The inclusion of the African Union (AU) in the Group of Twenty (G20) was highlighted.

Indian Air Force and MBDA ink agreement to localise MICA missile sustainment on 06 May 2026

Key Updates:

  • The Indian Air Force (IAF) signed an agreement with European defence major MBDA to establish a domestic Maintenance, Repair and Mid-Life Overhaul (MRO) facility for MICA air-to-air missiles.
  • The MRO facility will be set up, operated, and maintained by the IAF, with MBDA supplying industrial machinery, tools, data packages, training, and technical support.
  • The MICA is a short-to-medium range air-to-air missile used on Rafale fighter aircraft for both beyond-visual-range and close-combat engagements, with a strike range of 60-80 km.
  • The MICA missile system includes both active radar-guided and infrared-guided variants to engage multiple aerial threats in diverse combat environments.
  • MBDA also supplies the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) for the Rafale, which features a ramjet propulsion system and a strike range exceeding 150 km.

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Indian Air Force (IAF) to Equip MiG-29 Jets with ASRAAM Missiles (End of March) ▼
  • The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has invited bids to arm the Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 fighter aircraft with European Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM).
  • The ASRAAM is a next-generation close combat missile with a range of 25 km.
  • The integration of ASRAAM will replace the legacy Russian R-73 missiles, which are 1980s-era infrared-guided weapons with a range of 10 to 15 km.
  • The IAF currently operates more than 50 MiG-29 combat jets, including eight two-seater trainers.
  • Missile manufacturer MBDA has partnered with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to establish an assembly and test facility in Hyderabad to service the IAF jets.
India explores sixth-generation fighter partnership, AMCA RFP to be issued soon; DRDO ready for Agni-VI: Defence Secretary and DRDO Chief (Start of May) ▼
  • Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh stated that the request for proposal (RFP) for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is likely to be issued soon to shortlisted private sector players.
  • India has reached out to two international three-country programmes for collaboration on developing sixth-generation fighter aircraft.
  • Singh said India is working towards developing a multi-layered conventional missile force spanning short, medium and long ranges.
  • Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chief Samir V Kamat said India's LR-AShM hypersonic glide missile programme has reached an advanced stage, with initial trials expected soon.
  • Kamat said the Agni-VI ballistic missile programme depends on a government decision, and the agency is fully prepared to proceed when approval is granted.
Brazil's Embraer and India's Mahindra Group deepen partnership to develop C-390 MRO capabilities in India (End of February) ▼
  • Embraer and Mahindra Group announced plans to develop Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities in India for the C-390 Millennium aircraft.
  • The MRO facility is contingent on the C-390 Millennium's selection for the Indian Air Force's Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program.
  • The collaboration builds on a strategic partnership formed in October 2025 to produce the C-390 Millennium in India.
  • The initiative supports the Indian Air Force's MTA program and aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative.
  • The MRO facility will provide base and heavy maintenance, structural inspections, component overhaul, avionics support, and training.
  • Embraer is exploring India as a regional MRO hub for other C-390 operators.
  • The C-390 Millennium has a payload capacity of up to 26 tons and a mission completion rate above 99%.
  • Embraer has nearly 50 aircraft of 11 types operating in India across commercial, defense, and business aviation.
India Ministry of Defence signs Rs 858 crore contracts for Tunguska missile system and P8I aircraft maintenance (End of March) ▼
  • The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts worth a total of Rs 858 crore to enhance the air and maritime defence capabilities of India.
  • A contract valued at Rs 445 crore was signed with JSC Rosoboronexport, Russia, for the Tunguska Air Defence Missile System.
  • The Tunguska system is intended to strengthen multi-layered air defence against aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles.
  • A maintenance contract worth Rs 413 crore was executed with Boeing India Defense Pvt Ltd for the P8I Long-Range Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft.
  • The P8I aircraft contract involves 100% indigenous content for depot-level maintenance to ensure in-country upkeep for the Indian Navy.
  • The agreements were signed at Kartavya Bhawan-2 in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
  • The P8I maintenance initiative aligns with the Make-in-India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat programmes of the government.

DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat inaugurates CBRN training centre in Delhi

Key Updates:

  • Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development (R&D) and Chairman of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), inaugurated a Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) field training and demonstration centre.
  • The facility was established at the Burari plains in Delhi on May 6, 2026, to strengthen preparedness for radiological and nuclear emergencies.
  • Developed as a DRDO CBRN Centre of Excellence, the site features a dedicated radiological and nuclear test bed, a heavy ion research facility, and units for emergency medical response.
  • The centre operates under the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS) and will provide training to personnel from the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
  • The event was attended by Director General (DG) Soldier Support System Dr Upendra Kumar Singh, DG Production Coordination and Services Interaction Dr Chandrika Kaushik, and DG Resource and Management Dr Ravindra Singh.

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Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) join to develop indigenous sensor tech for Army and Indian Air Force (IAF) high-altitude operations. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS) under DRDO and Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) under CSIR will jointly develop wearable sensors for real-time physiological monitoring of defence personnel in varied environmental and service conditions.
  • Joint research will assess how extreme temperatures, high altitude and hypoxia affect soldiers’ cognitive performance and decision-making abilities.
  • Studies will also examine impact of high-altitude air operations on pilots’ judgment, reaction time and overall mission effectiveness.
  • After the 2020 stand-off with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), sustained military deployment in extreme high-altitude areas became the new normal, giving unprecedented impetus to R&D for supporting troops.
  • Post-2020, India inducted over 68,000 soldiers, around 90 tanks, 330 BMP infantry combat vehicles, radar systems, artillery guns and other equipment; Indian Air Force deployed fighters, attack helicopters and surveillance aircraft to bolster defence capabilities.
  • CSIO, a constituent laboratory of Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), focuses on research, design and development of scientific and industrial instruments and has worked on armed-force projects involving sensors and electro-optics.
  • DIPAS undertakes physiological and biomedical research to improve performance and well-being of soldiers in harsh desert and high-altitude conditions, covering military physiology, life support systems, ergonomics, clinical and cellular biochemistry, anthropometric data compilation, nutrition, man-machine interface and occupational health.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) signs MoUs with research institutes for disaster policy research (End of February) ▼
  • The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three research institutes to enhance disaster management policy research and risk reduction.
  • The collaboration involves the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) and the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR).
  • The partnership establishes a collaborative framework for academic programmes, capacity building, and effective policy communication to bridge the gap between scientific and policy communities.
  • CSIR-NIScPR is tasked with spearheading academic programmes and policy research to ensure effective public engagement.
  • The NDMA, AcSIR, and CSIR-NIScPR have launched a PhD programme in disaster management to nurture future experts in the field.
  • The initiative aims to develop research-based solutions for disaster resilience in alignment with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
India's First Indigenous Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) Attains Criticality at Kalpakkam (Start of April) ▼
  • The first indigenous 500-megawatt electric (MWe) Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, has attained criticality.
  • Criticality signifies the initiation of a self-sustaining nuclear fission reaction, a vital milestone before full power generation.
  • The reactor is a key component of the second stage of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) three-stage nuclear power programme.
  • The project is managed by the Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI), which was incorporated in 2003 to build and operate the reactor.
  • Upon commissioning, India will be the second country after Russia to have a commercial operating FBR.
  • The FBR uses uranium-plutonium mixed oxide (MOX) fuel surrounded by a Uranium 238 (U238) blanket that undergoes nuclear transmutation to produce more fuel.
  • The first stage of the nuclear programme involves Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium and heavy water (deuterium oxide) as coolant and moderator.
  • India currently has an installed atomic power capacity of 8,180 MWe through the first stage PHWRs.
  • The third stage of the programme aims to utilise thorium reserves found in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.

Maritime India Foundation signs MoUs with IITs and IMU to establish Maritime Innovation Hubs

Key Updates:

  • The Maritime India Foundation, acting as the implementing agency for the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to establish Maritime Innovation Hubs (MIHs).
  • The MoUs were formalised with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), and the Indian Maritime University (IMU Chennai) at the Chennai Port Authority.
  • A subsequent agreement is scheduled to be signed with the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) to complete the establishment of the fourth innovation hub.
  • The initiative enters an execution phase to onboard and mentor 36 startups selected to work on 40 innovation projects addressing critical operational challenges in the Indian maritime sector.
  • The programme aims to drive the modernisation of the sector through indigenous technology solutions in alignment with the national mandates of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.

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Indian Institute of Management-Kozhikode (IIM-K) and Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) sign MoU for customised executive training programmes. (Mid of February) ▼
  • Indian Institute of Management-Kozhikode (IIM-K) and Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) signed an MoU to design, deliver, and certify customised training programmes and workshops for IOB’s senior leadership and executives.
  • The MoU was signed during IOB’s 90th Foundation Day celebrations.
  • IOB announced the establishment of a dedicated centre of excellence (CoE) for training and capacity building.
  • IIM-K will operate through its Kochi campus (IIMK-Kochi) and IOB through its staff college and the newly inaugurated CoE to jointly develop high-impact learning interventions.
  • The programmes will target IOB’s top executives, senior management, and selected officers, aligned with the bank’s strategic priorities and vision of becoming a leading institution anchored in sound and prudent banking principles.
Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) and Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management (AJNIFM) sign MoU to build FinTech and international finance talent for IFSC. (End of February) ▼
  • GIFT City and AJNIFM signed an MoU on 18 February 2026 to collaborate on capacity building, academic engagement, and knowledge exchange in international finance, governance, and financial technology under the GIFT International FinTech Institute.
  • AJNIFM is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
  • A five-day Industry Immersion Programme for second-year MBA students of AJNIFM commenced at GIFT City as part of the MoU.
  • The programme offers exposure to regulatory frameworks, cross-border financial services, digital finance innovations, capital market operations, and institutional strategies at GIFT City.
  • The MoU framework includes joint research, executive education, faculty exchanges, and knowledge platforms.
Department of Posts (DoP) and National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) partner to expand mutual fund access (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Department of Posts (DoP) and the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) have signed a pact to expand mutual fund access through the NSE MF Invest platform.
  • The partnership leverages the network of over 1.64 lakh post offices and the zero-cost NSE MF Invest platform to provide mutual fund products.
  • The initiative will be rolled out in a phased manner, with the first phase focusing on Do-It-Yourself (DIY) investments with small, flexible amounts.
  • The second phase will expand to the full mutual fund ecosystem, offering access to all open-ended schemes across 55 Asset Management Companies (AMCs).
  • The second phase also includes goal-based investing, portfolio analytics, vernacular support, and enhanced advisory services.
  • The initiative aims to bridge the gap in mutual fund penetration, which remains low at approximately 10 per cent of Indian households.
  • The mutual fund industry in India has recorded Assets Under Management (AUM) surpassing ₹81 lakh crore with strong Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) inflows.
Indian Army EME and IIT-Madras partner for Nodal Indigenisation Centre (End of March) ▼
  • The Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) of the Indian Army has partnered with the IIT-Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation to develop indigenous military technologies.
  • A Nodal Indigenisation Centre has been established at Avadi to strengthen the Tamil Nadu Defence Corridor.
  • The partnership focuses on critical domains including sensing systems, cyber-physical systems, and autonomous technologies.
  • Major General Lalit Kapoor serves as the Indian Army Commander-Base Workshop Group.
  • M J Shankar Raman is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the IIT-Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation.
  • The Corps of EME is the technical backbone of the Indian Army responsible for the maintenance and sustenance of equipment.

Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Partner to Strengthen Research and Development (R&D) Ecosystem

Key Updates:

  • The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to bolster the national research and development ecosystem.
  • The collaboration aims to bridge gaps between industry, academia, and research institutions while promoting the translation and commercialisation of research and supporting policy dialogue.
  • Ajay Kumar Sood, the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Indian government, emphasised the need for technology diffusion to generate new ideas, products, and processes across various sectors.
  • The partnership identifies high-tech priority areas for scaling, specifically focusing on solar energy and green batteries to drive technological advancement.
  • The initiative leverages the government-enabled Research Development and Innovation (RDI) fund to support industries and startups in conducting deep tech research and technology development.

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Science City of Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) inks MoU with CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) (Start of April) ▼
  • The Science City of Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) signed an MoU with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) on 30 March 2026.
  • The collaboration aims to strengthen science popularisation and promote joint research in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policy.
  • SCAP CEO Venkateswarlu Kesineni and CSIR-NIScPR director Dr Geetha Vani Rayasam signed the agreement.
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Chamber India Sign MoU to Globalise Startup Ecosystem (Start of May) ▼
  • The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chamber India to strengthen the nation's startup ecosystem and promote innovation-led growth.
  • Under the collaboration, DPIIT-recognised startups will receive a 50% discount on Chamber India's privileged membership fees.
  • The partnership provides access to services including export facilitation, intellectual property advisory, business matching opportunities, and participation in global delegations.
  • DPIIT has over 200,000 recognised startups in India, which have created more than 21 lakh jobs nationwide.
  • The MoU aims to bridge domestic innovation with international market opportunities through Chamber India's established network.
DPIIT and KRAFTON India sign MoU to support gaming and digital entertainment startups. (End of March) ▼
  • Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) signed an MoU with KRAFTON India Pvt Ltd on 26 March 2026 in New Delhi.
  • The collaboration will organise innovation challenges under the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge and targeted hackathons, workshops, and masterclasses in game design, animation, immersive technologies, esports management, and AI applications.
  • Selected startups may gain pilot collaboration opportunities and further engagement based on outcomes.
  • Startups will receive mentorship, industry insights, knowledge exchange platforms, and curated engagement opportunities.
  • The partnership will facilitate Proof-of-Concept development, market access, and integration into industry ecosystems.
  • The MoU was signed by Deputy Secretary, DPIIT, T L K Singh and Head of Government Relations, KRAFTON India Pvt Ltd, Vibhor Kukreti.
Boehringer Ingelheim India and National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Raebareli sign MoU to advance pharmaceutical education and research (End of February) ▼
  • Boehringer Ingelheim India Private Limited and the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Raebareli signed an MoU on 22 Feb 2026 at the Department of Pharmaceuticals, New Delhi.
  • The MoU covers collaboration in pharmaceutical technologies, novel drug delivery systems, joint research initiatives, academic exchange, and capability-building programmes.
  • Boehringer Ingelheim will provide NIPER Raebareli access to its open science portal opnMe® to accelerate healthcare innovation.
  • The partnership will also explore symposia, conferences, short-term courses, and scholar engagement to strengthen scientific exchange.

O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) becomes first Indian Institution of Eminence accredited by Data Science Council of America (DASCA)

Key Updates:

  • O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), located in Sonipat, Haryana, is the first Institution of Eminence in India to be accredited by the Data Science Council of America (DASCA).
  • The accreditation was awarded under the World Data Science & AI Initiative (WDSAI), a global platform led by DASCA that supports universities in adopting internationally benchmarked standards.
  • The accreditation is valid through 2031 and covers residential, non-residential, and online delivery formats.
  • The DASCA Professional Certification Board (DPCB) and the Ethics Control Council (ECC) ensure the rigor and ethical standards of the accredited programmes.
  • Seven JGU programmes aligned with DASCA standards include: M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science, B.A. in AI & Law, BBA (Hons.) Business Analytics, M.Des. (AI-powered UX), MBA in Business Analytics, MBA in Business and Law, and MBA in AI for Business.

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India and Japan forge data partnership for AI-ready smart cities on 24 April 2026 (End of April) ▼
  • ONESTRUCTION Inc. and DataKaveri Systems signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate construction data into AI-ready urban data exchanges across Indian and Japanese cities.
  • DataKaveri Systems is the commercial arm of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru's Centre of Data for Public Good (CDPG).
  • The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the inaugural Japan-India AI Strategic Dialogue.
  • The partnership aims to connect the openBIM platform of ONESTRUCTION, which uses the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) open data standard, with the Intelligent Universal Data Exchange (IUDX).
  • The IUDX is currently operational across 55 smart cities in India, covering urban mobility, utilities, environment, and public services.
India and Japan Partner to Integrate Construction Data for AI-Ready Smart Cities (End of April) ▼
  • ONESTRUCTION Inc., a Tottori-based Japanese construction technology firm, and DataKaveri Systems signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate construction data into AI-ready urban data exchanges across Indian and Japanese cities.
  • DataKaveri Systems is the commercial arm of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru's Centre of Data for Public Good (CDPG).
  • The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the inaugural Japan-India AI Strategic Dialogue.
  • The collaboration aims to connect the openBIM platform of ONESTRUCTION, which uses the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) open data standard, with the Intelligent Universal Data Exchange (IUDX).
  • The IUDX is a platform currently live across 55 smart cities in India, covering environment, utilities, urban mobility, and public services.
IndiaAI and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Partner for Responsible AI in Healthcare (Start of May) ▼
  • IndiaAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to advance healthcare outcomes through the responsible and scalable application of artificial intelligence (AI).
  • The collaboration integrates IndiaAI's technology infrastructure and AI ecosystem with ICMR's biomedical research expertise and its Medical Information Data for AI Solutions (MIDAS) framework.
  • ICMR will contribute anonymised health research datasets, AI models, and toolkits developed under the MIDAS framework to the AIKosh platform for broader access by researchers and startups.
  • IndiaAI will provide ICMR with access to GPU-based and high-performance computing infrastructure at subsidised rates to address infrastructure gaps in scaling advanced AI research.
  • IndiaAI and ICMR's National Institute for Research in Digital Health and Data Sciences (NIRDHDS) are recognised as Pioneer Countries under the HealthAI Global Regulatory Network (GRN).
QS Subject Rankings 2026 released on 26 March 2026 (End of March) ▼
  • QS Subject Rankings 2026 were released on 26 March 2026.
  • India secured 599 entries across 99 institutions, the highest ever.
  • India has 27 subjects in the global top 50, up from 12 in 2024.
  • IIT Delhi has five core engineering subjects in the global top 50.
  • IIT Bombay shows strong presence across engineering and sciences.
  • IIT Kharagpur’s Petroleum Engineering entered the top 30.
  • IIM Ahmedabad’s Marketing subject is ranked 21 globally.
  • O P Jindal Global University (JGU) is ranked 35 in Law and in the top 100 in Politics & International Relations.
  • BITS Pilani is expanding its global footprint across STEM and management disciplines.
  • Computer Science entries from India doubled from 23 in 2021 to 44 in 2026.
  • Engineering entries from India increased by 65% over the past five years.
  • India recorded the highest improvement rate globally at 44%.
  • India continues to lag in Arts & Humanities and medical sciences with limited top-tier representation.

Pixxel Secures US National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) Contract for Hyperspectral Data Integration

Key Updates:

  • US-India-based space technology company Pixxel secured a contract from the US National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) under the Strategic Commercial Enhancements Commercial Solutions Opening programme.
  • The contract focuses on integrating emerging hyperspectral data into the remote sensing architecture of the NRO.
  • Pixxel utilised its Firefly constellation to demonstrate the utility of hyperspectral imagery (HSI) to characterise materials, conditions, and activities.
  • The Firefly constellation comprises six satellites launched in 2025 designed for high-resolution, high-frequency hyperspectral imaging on a global scale.
  • Founded in 2019 by Awais Ahmed and Kshitij Khandelwal, Pixxel raised a total of USD 95 million across all funding rounds as of 2024.

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Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited signs tech transfer pact with DRDO lab for naval systems on April 28, 2026 (Start of May) ▼
  • Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) entered into a licensing agreement for transfer of technology (LAToT) with the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam.
  • NSTL is a constituent laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
  • The agreement pertains to the gas turbine–infrared suppression system (GT-IRSS) for naval vessels.
  • BHEL will undertake the fabrication, installation, and commissioning of the LM2500 gas turbine infrared suppression system developed by NSTL-DRDO.
  • The pact aligns with the government's 'Make in India' initiative to strengthen indigenous capabilities in naval systems.
  • BHEL reported a provisional and unaudited turnover of approximately ₹32,350 crore for FY26.
  • The total outstanding order book of BHEL was about ₹2.4 lakh crore at the end of FY26.
SpaceX Falcon 9 Launches CAS500-2 and 45 Rideshare Payloads (Start of May) ▼
  • SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on May 3.
  • The primary payload was CAS500-2, a 500-kilogram imaging satellite developed by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).
  • Indian startup GalaxEye launched Mission Drishti, which is the world's first "OptoSAR" satellite combining an optical imager and a synthetic aperture radar.
  • The mission carried seven Hawk for Earth Observation (HEO) satellites built by Argotec for the IRIDE constellation, which has received over 1 billion euros in investment from the Italian government.
  • Other secondary payloads included three Pelican satellites by Planet, six imaging satellites by EarthDaily, two SAR satellites by Iceye, one BRO-21 satellite by Unseenlabs, two satellites by Lynk Global, and one Jackal spacecraft by True Anomaly.
NewSpace India Limited (Nsil) partners with GalaxEye to distribute private satellite data for first time (Mid of February) ▼
  • NewSpace India Limited (Nsil) signed a channel partnership with Bengaluru-based space start-up GalaxEye to resell high-resolution OptoSAR data.
  • GalaxEye’s first satellite "Drishti" is scheduled for launch on 25 February 2026 aboard a SpaceX mission.
  • Drishti weighs 160 kg and is claimed to be India’s largest privately built commercial satellite.
  • GalaxEye plans a 10-satellite constellation to be deployed over the next four years, all covered under the Nsil agreement.
  • Drishti carries proprietary "SyncFused OptoSAR" technology combining optical and synthetic aperture radar data on a single platform.
  • The satellite will provide 1.5-metre resolution imagery with a global revisit time of seven to ten days.
  • Nsil will market both raw data and downstream products to government agencies and commercial clients.
ISRO and ESA sign new Earth observation cooperation pact (Start of March) ▼
  • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the European Space Agency (ESA) signed the 'ESA–ISRO Arrangement concerning Joint Calibration and Validation Activities and Scientific Studies for Earth Observation Missions' on 4 March 2026.
  • ISRO Scientific Secretary M. Ganesh Pillai and ESA Director of Earth Observation Programmes Simonetta Cheli signed the agreement virtually.
  • The collaboration covers Earth observation, navigation systems, ground station support and human spaceflight cooperation.
  • The partnership between ISRO and ESA began in 1978 and was renewed in 2002.
  • The upcoming ESA Fluorescence Explorer (FLEX) mission will benefit from joint calibration and validation campaigns.
  • ISRO and ESA have previously cooperated on ground station support for Chandrayaan and Aditya missions and on deep-space communications.

National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2024 report released

Key Updates:

  • The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) released the latest crime statistics for India on Wednesday.
  • India recorded 58.85 lakh crimes in 2024, representing a six per cent decline from the 62.41 lakh cases reported in 2023.
  • The national crime rate per lakh population decreased from 448.3 in 2023 to 418.9 in 2024.
  • The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was introduced in 2023 as the legislation replacing the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
  • Crimes against Scheduled Tribes (STs) declined by 23.1 per cent to 9,966 cases, while crimes against Scheduled Castes (SCs) fell by 3.6 per cent to 55,698 cases in 2024.

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National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) Report 2024 (Start of May) ▼
  • The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for 2024 reveals that Delhi recorded 2,905 suicides, the highest among 53 Indian cities.
  • Bengaluru reported the second-highest number of suicides at 2,403 with a rate of 16.7 per lakh population, while Mumbai recorded 1,406 cases.
  • Married individuals constituted the largest demographic among suicide victims in Delhi, accounting for 1,616 cases or more than 55.6% of the total.
  • Delhi recorded the highest number of crimes against children among metropolitan cities with 7,662 cases, including 5,404 incidents of kidnapping and abduction.
  • Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, Delhi registered 1,553 cases in 2024, followed by Mumbai with 1,416 and Bengaluru with 594.
Supreme Court (SC) rules on hate speech legislation on April 29, 2026 (End of April) ▼
  • A Supreme Court (SC) bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta held that the existing framework of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) adequately addresses hate speech.
  • The SC noted that the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) provides for the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs) in cognisable offences.
  • The Law Commission 267 report, dated March 23, 2017, suggested legislative measures and amendments to address evolving societal challenges regarding hate speech.
  • The SC cited the Lalita Kumari judgment, which mandates that police are bound to register an FIR upon the disclosure of a cognisable offence.
  • Legal recourse for non-registration of FIRs is available under Section 154(3), Section 156(3), and Section 200 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
  • Corresponding legal remedies under the BNSS include Section 175 for approaching a Magistrate and Section 223 for filing a complaint.
  • In 2018, the SC issued specific guidelines to control hate crimes, mob violence, and lynching, which included the appointment of nodal officers and fast-tracked trials.
Telangana Police launch 'Operation Crackdown' to dismantle cybercrime network (Start of March) ▼
  • Telangana Police launched 'Operation Crackdown' on 25 February 2026 to break cybercrime networks across the state.
  • Conceived by Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB), the operation will run over the next few months in collaboration with Districts and Commissionerates.
  • First phase targeted 1,888 suspected mule bank accounts opened in 137 bank branches spread across 16 districts/units of Telangana.
  • Data analysis by TGCSB revealed 4,775 mule accounts operated in the state during 2025.
  • These accounts are linked to 9,431 crime links nationwide, including 782 within Telangana.
  • A total of 137 police teams comprising 512 officers visited the 137 bank branches to collect KYC details of suspicious account holders.
  • One account in Sultan Bazar, Hyderabad, was linked to 496 crime complaints, while four branches in Suryapet District held 298 such accounts.
  • Smaller banks lacking RTGS capability were found using national banks' RTGS for fund transfers without proper verification, a gap exploited by cyber criminals.
  • Verification, financial-trail analysis, profiling, and strict legal action will continue under Operation Crackdown.
Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) 2.0: Uttarakhand Ranks First Nationally (Start of March) ▼
  • Uttarakhand has secured the first position in the national implementation of the ICJS 2.0 with a score of 93.46, as per data up to January 2026.
  • The ranking was published in the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS)/ICJS Progress Dashboard of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).
  • The top five performing states are Uttarakhand (93.46), Haryana (93.41), Assam (93.16), Sikkim (91.82), and Madhya Pradesh (90.55).
  • The implementation covers the new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA).
  • The ICJS 2.0 framework employs a One Data, One Entry mechanism to integrate data across Police (CCTNS), e-Courts, e-Prisons, e-Prosecution, and e-Forensics.
  • The e-Sakshya mobile application is used for mandatory videography of crime scenes and secure storage of digital evidence.
  • The state has introduced Nyaya Shruti for virtual court hearings and prioritised the use of forensic mobile vans.
  • More than 23,000 police personnel in Uttarakhand have been trained on the provisions of the new legal framework.

Project VARTAK 66th Raising Day observed on 7 May

Key Updates:

  • Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Project VARTAK celebrated its 66th Raising Day at Tezpur in Assam.
  • Project VARTAK was originally raised as Project Tusker on 7 May 1960 and holds the distinction of being the first project of the BRO.
  • The project was rechristened as Project VARTAK in 1963 and historically improved the Bhalukpong-Tenga-Tawang axis connecting Bomdila with Sela.
  • It currently manages a 2066.90 km road network through task forces at Tenga, Sapper Camp, and Khirmu in the districts of Sonitpur, West Kameng, and Tawang.
  • The project maintains strategic passes and locations including Womingla, Bumla, Yangtse, Nagula, Y Junction, Klemta, Lungro GG, Monkey Pass, Lungar, Dhaula, and Assam Hill.

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Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrates 47th Raising Day of Project Chetak at Bikaner in Rajasthan (Start of April) ▼
  • Project Chetak of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 47th Raising Day at Bikaner in Rajasthan on 4 April 2026.
  • Project Chetak was raised on this day in 1980 and has since developed and maintained infrastructure in Rajasthan, Punjab and northern Gujarat.
  • The project has constructed over 4,000 km of roads and 214 km of Ditch Cum Bund in the western sector.
  • Its motto is 'Chetak ka Prayas, Desh ka Vikas' and it maintains key feeder roads towards the International Border.
Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Project Chetak marks 47th foundation day. (Start of April) ▼
  • Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated the 47th foundation day of Project Chetak on Saturday in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
  • Project Chetak was launched on 4 April 1980 and operates in northern Rajasthan, Punjab, and Gujarat.
  • The project maintains over 4,000 km of roads and a 214-km ditch-cum-bund.
  • Its motto is “Chetak’s Effort, Nation’s Development.”
  • BRO’s Project Seva celebrated its 66th foundation day on 15 February in Dimapur.
  • Project Seva, initiated in 1961, serves Nagaland and Manipur and is headquartered in Dimapur.
International Day for Street Children – April 12 (Mid of April) ▼
  • International Day for Street Children is observed annually on April 12.
  • The day was launched in 2012.
  • It was launched by Consortium for Street Children (CSC), a global alliance of more than 100 NGOs, researchers, activists and other stakeholders in 135 countries.
  • There are about 150 million street‑connected children in the world.
  • Main causes of children ending up on the streets include extreme poverty, political unrest and military conflict, domestic violence, physical, emotional or sexual abuse, mental health problems, substance abuse and cultural factors.
  • The day aims to raise awareness of the plight of millions of children who depend on the streets for their survival and deserve care, protection and respect.
  • It also recognises the hard work and dedication of people who work with street children to improve their lives.
  • Ways to get involved include attending seminars, webinars or fundraisers, donating to or volunteering with organisations that help street children, petitioning governments to protect them, and spreading the word on social media using the hashtag #StreetChildrenDay.
PMGSY-IV: ₹1,698-crore rural road projects to be launched in Rayagada, Odisha on May 1, 2026 (Start of May) ▼
  • Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan will launch the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-IV (PMGSY-IV) road projects worth ₹1,698.04 crore in Rayagada, Odisha on May 1, 2026.
  • A total of 827 road projects covering 1,701.84 kilometres will be undertaken, providing all-weather road connectivity to 898 habitations for the first time.
  • The launch programme will be held at the IACR Ground in Barijhola, Rayagada.
  • Chouhan will hand over the PMGSY-IV approval letter to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during the event.
  • In Odisha, under previous PMGSY phases, 17,963 roads covering 74,725 kilometres and 707 bridges have been sanctioned, with 17,760 roads covering 71,742 kilometres and 658 bridges completed.

Suvendu Adhikari Sworn in as Chief Minister of West Bengal

Key Updates:

  • Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the Chief Minister of West Bengal on 9 May 2026.
  • Adhikari is the first leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to hold the Chief Minister's post in West Bengal.
  • The swearing-in ceremony was administered by the Governor at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata.
  • The BJP secured 207 seats in the 294-member Assembly.
  • The ministers sworn in for the cabinet include Dilip Ghosh, Agnimitra Paul, Ashok Kirtonia, Kshudiram Tudu, and Nisith Pramanik.
  • Adhikari defeated Mamata Banerjee in the Bhabanipur constituency by a margin of over 15,000 votes and retained the Nandigram seat.

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Suvendu Adhikari Appointed as West Bengal Chief Minister (Start of May) ▼
  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced Suvendu Adhikari as the first Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chief Minister of West Bengal.
  • The announcement followed the victory of the BJP in the West Bengal assembly elections.
  • The swearing-in ceremony for the new state government is scheduled to be held on May 9.
  • The Brigade Parade Ground has been selected as the venue for the official swearing-in event.
  • The party is reportedly planning to appoint two Deputy Chief Ministers as part of the new state leadership structure.
Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari Appointed Chief Justice of Madras High Court (Start of March) ▼
  • The President of India appointed Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari as the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court following the recommendation of the Supreme Court (SC) Collegium.
  • The SC Collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, recommended the appointment in a meeting held on 26 February.
  • Justice Dharmadhikari succeeds Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, who retired from the position on 5 March.
  • He is currently serving as a judge of the Kerala High Court, having been transferred there from his parent Madhya Pradesh High Court in April 2025.
  • The transfer to the Kerala High Court was approved by the President under Article 222 of the Constitution of India.
  • Justice Dharmadhikari was first appointed as an additional judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court in April 2016 and took oath as a permanent judge on 17 March 2018.
  • Born on 9 July 1966 at Raipur, he practised law in civil, criminal, and constitutional branches for 24 years in the Madhya Pradesh High Court before his elevation to the bench.
Assembly Election Results 2026 (Start of May) ▼
  • The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) crossed the magic number of 148 seats in West Bengal, where Suvendu Adhikari defeated Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the Bhabanipur constituency by 15,105 votes.
  • In Assam, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a third term by winning 81 seats in the 126-member Assembly, while the Indian National Congress (INC) secured 15 seats.
  • The TVK party emerged as the single largest party in Tamil Nadu with 76 seats, and its chief Vijay won the Perambur seat by a margin of over 49,000 votes.
  • The United Democratic Front (UDF) won the Kerala Assembly elections by crossing the 71-seat halfway mark, with the INC alone securing 63 of the 140 available seats.
  • The NDA is set to form the government in Puducherry after the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC) secured 10 seats and the BJP won four seats.
Himanta Biswa Sarma Resigns as Chief Minister (CM) of Assam (Start of May) ▼
  • Himanta Biswa Sarma submitted his resignation as the CM to Governor Laxman Acharya at Lok Bhawan following the formal notification of the Assam Assembly Elections 2026 results.
  • The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a third consecutive term in the state by winning 102 out of 126 assembly seats.
  • The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the largest party with 82 seats, while its allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People's Front (BPF) won 10 seats each.
  • The BJP appointed J. P. Nadda as the central observer and Nayab Singh Saini as the co-observer to oversee the selection of the legislative party leader.
  • The Indian National Congress (INC) secured 19 seats, falling short of the 22 seats required to claim the post of the Leader of the Opposition in the assembly.

Justice Ramachandra D Huddar Appointed Chairperson of Admissions Overseeing Committee

Key Updates:

  • Retired High Court judge Justice Ramachandra D Huddar has been appointed as the chairperson of the Admissions Overseeing Committee for professional courses in Karnataka.
  • A notification confirming the appointment was issued on April 28.
  • The post of chairperson had been vacant for more than one-and-a-half years after the previous chairperson's term ended in October 2024.
  • The appointment was made in accordance with the provisions of the Karnataka Professional Educational Institutions Regulation of Admissions and Determination of Fee Act, 2006.
  • The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) had been receiving complaints against private medical, engineering, and nursing colleges regarding the charging of excessive fees.

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Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office Act, 2023: Challenge to CJI's Exclusion (Start of May) ▼
  • The Supreme Court (SC) is hearing petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioner Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office Act, 2023.
  • The Act, enacted by Parliament in December 2023, removed the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the committee responsible for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other election commissioners.
  • Under the 2023 Act, the selection committee consists of the Prime Minister, a Union minister nominated by the Prime Minister, and the leader of Opposition or leader of the largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha.
  • The petitions challenging the law were filed by multiple petitioners, including the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Congress leader Jaya Thakur.
  • The SC noted that the Constitution bench in the Anoop Baranwal case had previously laid down an interim mechanism for appointments until Parliament enacted a law.
Shashi Shekhar Vempati Appointed Chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) (Start of May) ▼
  • The Government of India notified the appointment of Shashi Shekhar Vempati as the chairperson of the CBFC for a three-year term effective from the date of joining.
  • Shashi Shekhar Vempati is an alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and a co-founder of AI4India Org, an organisation working to democratise artificial intelligence technology.
  • Prasoon Joshi, who served as the CBFC chairperson for over eight years, has been appointed as the chairman of Prasar Bharati.
  • The CBFC functions as a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to regulate the public exhibition of films under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
  • The organisation is headquartered in Mumbai and maintains nine regional offices in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Cuttack, and Guwahati.
Rakesh Bhanot appointed acting Director General of Competition Commission of India (CCI) (End of April) ▼
  • Rakesh Bhanot, an advisor at the Competition Commission of India (CCI), has been appointed as the acting Director General (DG).
  • He succeeds Ansuman Pattanaik, who was appointed as the additional secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) on March 31, 2026.
  • The CCI has extended the deadline for applying for the full-time DG post until May 5, 2026.
  • The DG's office is responsible for investigating all contraventions against the Competition Act.
  • The DG's office is currently investigating cases involving Indigo Airlines for abuse of dominant position and Google for its practices in digital advertising.
  • Amendments made to the Competition Act in 2023 empower the commission to appoint the DG with prior approval from the Centre.
  • Section 16 of the Competition Act stipulates that the DG and other director generals be appointed from persons of integrity and outstanding ability with experience in investigation and knowledge of accountancy, management, business, public administration, international trade, law, or economics.
Rajya Sabha reconstitutes panel of Vice‑Chairpersons (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Rajya Sabha reconstituted its panel of vice‑chairpersons on Thursday, with effect from 15 April.
  • Six members were nominated to the panel: Dinesh Sharma, S Phangnon Konyak and Ghanshyam Tiwari of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP); Phulo Devi Netam of the Indian National Congress (Congress); M. Thambidurai of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK); and Sasmit Patra of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).
  • Members of the panel preside over the House when both the Chairman and Deputy Chairman are absent.
  • While presiding, panel members exercise the same powers as the Chairperson, including maintaining order, regulating debate and ensuring smooth functioning of the House.
  • Unlike the Deputy Chairman, panel members do not hold a permanent constitutional office and preside on a rotational basis.

Supreme Court (SC) Proposes Permanent Woman Vice-President Post in Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA)

Key Updates:

  • The Supreme Court (SC) has proposed the creation of a permanent vice-president post reserved for women in the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) from 2027 onwards.
  • For the 2026-27 SCBA elections, the post of secretary remains reserved for women members.
  • Current reservations in the SCBA include the post of secretary, two posts in the senior executive committee, and three posts in the executive committee for women.
  • The directions were issued by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice K V Viswanathan.
  • The SC has introduced 33% reservation for women in bar associations, including the SCBA, Delhi High Court Bar Association, and district bar associations in Delhi, and 30% reservation in bar councils.

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Australia appoints first female chief of army in 125-year history (Mid of April) ▼
  • Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will become chief of army in July 2026, the first woman to lead the Australian Army in its 125-year history.
  • Coyle currently serves as chief of joint capabilities and will replace Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, who has held the post since July 2022.
  • Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, current chief of the navy, was appointed head of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), succeeding Admiral David Johnston.
  • Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley will replace Hammond as chief of the navy.
  • Women comprise 21 percent of the ADF and 18.5 percent of senior leadership roles; the ADF targets 25 percent female participation by 2030.
  • A class action filed last October alleges systemic sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination against women officers in the ADF.
Nepal President promulgates Constitutional Council Ordinance on May 5, 2026 (Start of May) ▼
  • President Ramchandra Paudel of Nepal promulgated the Constitutional Council (Functions, Duties, Powers and Procedure) Ordinance, 2026 on May 5, 2026.
  • The ordinance enables the government to appoint individuals to key positions in constitutional bodies, including the post of Chief Justice.
  • The Constitutional Council is a six-member body chaired by the Prime Minister.
  • The council includes the Chief Justice, Speaker, and National Assembly Chair as members.
  • The remaining members of the council are the Deputy Speaker and the Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives.
Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office Act, 2023: Challenge to CJI's Exclusion (Start of May) ▼
  • The Supreme Court (SC) is hearing petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioner Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office Act, 2023.
  • The Act, enacted by Parliament in December 2023, removed the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the committee responsible for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other election commissioners.
  • Under the 2023 Act, the selection committee consists of the Prime Minister, a Union minister nominated by the Prime Minister, and the leader of Opposition or leader of the largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha.
  • The petitions challenging the law were filed by multiple petitioners, including the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Congress leader Jaya Thakur.
  • The SC noted that the Constitution bench in the Anoop Baranwal case had previously laid down an interim mechanism for appointments until Parliament enacted a law.
International Day of Women Judges observed on 10 March (Mid of March) ▼
  • International Day of Women Judges is observed on 10 March every year.
  • The day was established by the United Nations (UN) to promote the full and equal participation of women at all levels of the judiciary.
  • Europe leads with 54 per cent female judges, followed by the Americas with 51 per cent; Oceania, Africa and Asia average 31 per cent, 30 per cent and 29 per cent respectively.
  • The Global Judicial Integrity Network of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) brings together judges worldwide to strengthen judicial integrity and gender equality.
  • In 2024 the UNDP–UN Women Gender Justice Platform supported work in 45 countries, helping over 125 000 people and strengthening 82 justice institutions.

Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan appointed Chief of the Naval Staff

Key Updates:

  • Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan was appointed as the Chief of the Naval Staff by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
  • Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, the current Chief of the Naval Staff, will retire from service on May 31, 2026.
  • He is a recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.
  • He has held command of the missile vessels INS Vidyut and Vinash, the missile corvette INS Kulish, the guided missile destroyer INS Mysore, and the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya.
  • His academic qualifications include a BSc from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), an MSc from Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), an MA from King's College London, and an MPhil and PhD from Mumbai University.

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Lt Gen VMB Krishnan assumed command of Eastern Command. (Start of April) ▼
  • Lt Gen VMB Krishnan took over as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command on Wednesday.
  • He succeeded Lt Gen R C Tiwari, who retired at the end of March.
  • Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh now leads the Western Command after serving as Vice Chief of the Army Staff.
  • Lt Gen Sandeep Jain assumed command of the Southern Command, succeeding Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth.
  • Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar was the predecessor of Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh in the Western Command.
Indian Navy assumes command of Combined Task Force 154 under Combined Maritime Forces (Mid of February) ▼
  • Indian Navy assumed command of Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154), a multinational training task force under Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), on 11 February at CMF headquarters in Manama, Bahrain.
  • Commodore Milind M Mokashi of the Indian Navy, a Shaurya Chakra awardee, took over as Commander of CTF 154 from the outgoing Italian Navy commander.
  • CTF 154, established in May 2023, focuses on training and capacity-building across five pillars: maritime domain awareness, law of the sea, maritime interdiction operations, maritime rescue and assistance, and leadership development.
  • The task force conducts maritime security enhancement training events, exercises such as Compass Rose and Northern/Southern Readiness, and outreach to counter threats like illegal trafficking, piracy, and irregular migration.
  • CTF 154 operates alongside CMF task forces CTF 150 (maritime security), CTF 151 (counter-piracy), CTF 152 (Arabian Gulf maritime security), and CTF 153 (Red Sea maritime security).
Indian Navy launches first indigenous cadet training ship Krishna in Chennai (Mid of February) ▼
  • The first of three indigenous cadet training ships, named Krishna, was launched at the L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli, Chennai.
  • The ship is named after the River Krishna, which is the third longest river in India.
  • The vessel was launched in the presence of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan and DWWA president Anupama.
  • The Union Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed the contract for the three cadet training ships with M/s L&T Shipyard in March 2023.
  • The ship is designed to accommodate a crew strength of 20 officers, 150 sailors, and 200 cadets.
  • The primary role of the ship is to provide basic sea training to Navy cadets, while secondary roles include hospital ship, non-combatant evacuation, HADR, and SAR operations.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth appointed as Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS). (Start of March) ▼
  • Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth will move from General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Command, Pune, to Army Headquarters as Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) from 1 April.
  • Lt Gen P.P. Singh, currently Vice Chief of Army Staff, will take over as Western Army Commander at Chandimandir, succeeding Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar.
  • Lt Gen V.M.B. Krishnan, presently Quartermaster General at Army Headquarters, will assume charge as Eastern Army Commander in Kolkata from 1 April, succeeding Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari.
  • Lt Gen Sandeep Jain, now Chief of Staff at Southern Command, will be promoted to Southern Army Commander in Pune, replacing Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth.

Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani Appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)

Key Updates:

  • Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani (Retd) was appointed as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs.
  • He will assume charge after the current CDS, General Anil Chauhan, completes his tenure on May 30, 2026.
  • He has served as the Military Adviser in the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) since September 2025.
  • He previously served as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff from July 2024 to July 2025 and as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Command from March 2023 to June 2024.
  • He commanded 16 Garhwal Rifles in Assam under Operation Rhino, 168 Infantry Brigade in Jammu & Kashmir, 17 Mountain Division in the Central Sector, and 2 Corps on the Western Front.
  • His staff and instructional appointments include Brigade Major of a Mountain Brigade, Defence Attaché in Kazakhstan, Colonel General Staff (Operations) at Eastern Command, Deputy Director General of Military Intelligence, Chief Instructor (Army) at Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and Chief of Staff of Northern Command.
  • He has been decorated with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Sena Medal (SM), and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM).

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Vishvajit Sahay assumes charge as Defence Finance Secretary (Start of May) ▼
  • Vishvajit Sahay, a 1990-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), assumed charge as Secretary (Defence Finance) in the Ministry of Defence on 1 May 2026.
  • Prior to this appointment, he served as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA).
  • He is an alumnus of St. Stephen's College, University of Delhi, and a law graduate with over three decades of experience in defence finance and public administration.
  • His previous key positions include Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser in the Department of Science and Technology, Joint Secretary in the Department of Heavy Industries, Finance Manager in the Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence, and Director in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
  • Within the Defence Accounts Department, he has also served as Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions) in Prayagraj, Joint CGDA, and Special CGDA, and represented India at training programmes at the University of Cambridge and the George C. Marshall European Centre for Security Studies.
Lt Gen VMB Krishnan assumed command of Eastern Command. (Start of April) ▼
  • Lt Gen VMB Krishnan took over as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command on Wednesday.
  • He succeeded Lt Gen R C Tiwari, who retired at the end of March.
  • Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh now leads the Western Command after serving as Vice Chief of the Army Staff.
  • Lt Gen Sandeep Jain assumed command of the Southern Command, succeeding Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth.
  • Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar was the predecessor of Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh in the Western Command.
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth appointed as Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS). (Start of March) ▼
  • Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth will move from General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Command, Pune, to Army Headquarters as Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) from 1 April.
  • Lt Gen P.P. Singh, currently Vice Chief of Army Staff, will take over as Western Army Commander at Chandimandir, succeeding Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar.
  • Lt Gen V.M.B. Krishnan, presently Quartermaster General at Army Headquarters, will assume charge as Eastern Army Commander in Kolkata from 1 April, succeeding Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari.
  • Lt Gen Sandeep Jain, now Chief of Staff at Southern Command, will be promoted to Southern Army Commander in Pune, replacing Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth.
B.P. Singh assumes charge as Director General of Naval Armament (DGONA). (Start of March) ▼
  • B.P. Singh took over as Director General of Naval Armament (DGONA) at Naval Headquarters, New Delhi, on 1 March 2026.
  • He succeeded Divakar Jayant, who superannuated on 28 February 2026.
  • Singh is a 1994-batch officer of the Indian Naval Armament Service (INAS).
  • He previously served as Chief General Manager at Naval Armament Depot (NAD), Mumbai.
  • Singh is a Mechanical Engineering graduate of National Institute of Technology Patna and an alumnus of the National Defence College.

Priyanka Mittal Appointed Co-Chair of Saudi-India Business Council (SIBC)

Key Updates:

  • Priyanka Mittal, Director of KRBL Limited, has been appointed as Co-Chair of the Indian side of the Saudi-India Business Council (SIBC) by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
  • Dr. Siddeek Ahmed, Chairman of Eram Holdings, has been nominated as Chair of the Indian side of the SIBC.
  • The SIBC is a bilateral platform jointly established by FICCI and the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC).
  • The SIBC aims to strengthen economic cooperation, enhance trade relations, and facilitate investment opportunities between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • KRBL Limited is the parent company of India Gate, which is recognised as the World's No.1 basmati rice brand.

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Oil India Limited (OIL) bags FIPI Award 2025 as Oil & Gas Production Company of the Year (Mid of February) ▼
  • Oil India Limited (OIL) received the FIPI Award 2025 in the ‘Oil & Gas Production Company of the Year’ (More than 1 MTOE) category.
  • The award was presented by Petroleum & Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Petroleum and Natural Gas Secretary Dr Neeraj Mittal.
  • The ceremony was organised by the Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) at India Energy Week in Goa.
  • OIL Chairman and Managing Director Dr Ranjit Rath accepted the award on behalf of the company.
Shashi Shekhar Vempati Appointed Chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) (Start of May) ▼
  • The Government of India notified the appointment of Shashi Shekhar Vempati as the chairperson of the CBFC for a three-year term effective from the date of joining.
  • Shashi Shekhar Vempati is an alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and a co-founder of AI4India Org, an organisation working to democratise artificial intelligence technology.
  • Prasoon Joshi, who served as the CBFC chairperson for over eight years, has been appointed as the chairman of Prasar Bharati.
  • The CBFC functions as a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to regulate the public exhibition of films under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
  • The organisation is headquartered in Mumbai and maintains nine regional offices in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Cuttack, and Guwahati.
Anant Swarup appointed Secretary General of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) (Mid of April) ▼
  • Anant Swarup assumed office as Secretary General of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) on 15 April 2026.
  • He is a 1992-batch Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS) officer with over 30 years of experience in public policy, trade remedies, logistics, regulatory reform and international negotiations.
  • His previous roles include Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce, Director General of Trade Remedies, Executive Director to the Union Minister of Railways, and First Secretary representing India at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva.
  • He contributed to the National Rail Plan, helped build a large-scale investment pipeline, and launched a real-time passenger grievance redressal platform.
  • He holds an MBA from Amity University and a law degree from Chaudhary Charan Singh University, and has completed specialised courses in international trade law and sustainable infrastructure finance.
  • FICCI stated that Jyoti Vij continues as Director General after this appointment.
Ministry of Culture (MoC) & Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) sign MoU to develop comprehensive strategy for India’s Cultural & Creative Economy (Start of March) ▼
  • The Ministry of Culture (MoC) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) signed an MoU on 25 February 2026 to craft a comprehensive strategy for India’s Cultural and Creative Economy.
  • Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated the agreement positions culture as the foundation of economic prosperity.
  • The MoU aims to secure a brighter future for India’s artists and artisans.
  • The Minister highlighted that the MoU can help gain global recognition for Indian cultural products and services.

Mohan Singh Dies Former Indian Footballer

Key Updates:

  • Former Indian football midfielder Mohan Singh died on May 7 at the age of 78, with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) paying tribute to his contributions.
  • He made his senior national team debut against Burma in Rangoon during the 1972 Pre-Olympic Tournament and earned three international caps.
  • He represented Bengal in the 1972 Santosh Trophy, where he scored twice and helped the team win the title.
  • During his spells with East Bengal in 1972 and 1975, he won the Calcutta Football League, IFA Shield, Durand Cup, Rovers Cup, and Bordoloi Trophy.
  • He played for Mohun Bagan in 1973 and 1974, winning the Durand Cup in 1974, and represented Mohammedan Sporting Club in 1976.

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Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (Retd), Maha Vir Chakra awardee and Kargil War hero, passes away. (Mid of April) ▼
  • Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (Retd) died at age 61 following a heart attack at his residence in Leh, Ladakh.
  • He was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award, for his actions during the Kargil War.
  • Then Major Wangchuk led Ladakh Scouts troops across Chorbat La on 30 May 1999 without artillery support and captured enemy positions.
  • Two posts in the sector, ‘Sonam 1’ and ‘Sonam 2’, were named after him in recognition of his bravery.
  • He was commissioned into the Assam Regiment on 4 September 1987 and later served with the Ladakh Scouts.
  • His wife Padma Angmo is a UT cadre civil servant posted in Delhi and their son Riggyal Otvum is an IIM graduate working in Bengaluru.
Raghu Rai Passes Away as Legendary Photojournalist (End of April) ▼
  • Raghu Rai, a legendary photojournalist, passed away on April 26, 2026, at the age of 83.
  • He was born on December 18, 1942, in Jhang, which is now in Pakistan.
  • He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1972.
  • The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting awarded him the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017.
  • He joined Magnum Photos in 1977 after being nominated by Henri Cartier-Bresson.
  • His notable work includes the coverage of the Bangladesh Liberation War and the Bhopal Gas Tragedy.
  • He documented eminent personalities including Indira Gandhi and Mother Teresa.
Raghu Rai, Renowned Photographer, Dies at 83 (End of April) ▼
  • Raghu Rai, a renowned photographer and photojournalist, passed away in Delhi at the age of 83 after suffering from cancer.
  • He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1972.
  • In 1977, he became the first Indian photographer to be invited to join Magnum Photos upon nomination by Henri Cartier-Bresson.
  • He authored over 40 books, including A Day in the Life of India, Picturing Time: The Greatest Photographs of Raghu Rai, My Land and Its People, The Album: Friends and Family, Tibet in Exile, His People: His Finest Portraits, and The Sikhs.
  • His work documented significant historical events including the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, the Emergency years, and the period before Operation Blue Star in 1984.
  • He captured portraits of prominent figures including Indira Gandhi, Ustad Bismillah Khan, Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, and Satyajit Ray.
  • He was born in Jhang, Pakistan, and was a civil engineer by training.
Vijay Kumar passes away as veteran Indian golfer (Start of May) ▼
  • Veteran Indian golfer Vijay Kumar passed away at the age of 57 in Lucknow due to a heart attack.
  • He won the Indian Open in 2002.
  • He was a four-time Order of Merit champion.
  • He is one of only nine Indian golfers to have won the Indian Open.
  • He turned professional in 1988.
  • He represented India at the Alfred Dunhill Cup 1999 played at St. Andrews in Scotland.