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Sunday, Apr 19

Daily Current Affairs: 19 April 2026

Analysis for 19 April 2026

Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) and Austria launch Fast-Track Mechanism (FTM) to enhance bilateral trade

[Austria]

Key Updates:

  • India and Austria signed and operationalised the FTM during the India-Austria Business Forum held in New Delhi.
  • The event marked the first official visit by an Austrian Chancellor to India in over four decades.
  • The FTM serves as a dedicated platform for Austrian and Indian investors to resolve operational challenges and improve the ease of doing business.
  • Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted reindustrialisation and advanced manufacturing as key drivers for the national economy.
  • Federal Chancellor of Austria, H.E. Dr. Christian Stocker, noted that bilateral trade between the two nations has reached approximately EUR 3 billion.
  • Approximately 160 Austrian firms are currently operating in India.
  • Sustainable development, green technologies, and advanced manufacturing were identified as primary areas for future bilateral cooperation.
  • The proposed India-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was cited as a key enabler to create opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

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India and Austria seal 15 deals across defence, counter-terrorism, technology and trade (Mid of April) ▼
  • India and Austria concluded 15 arrangements covering defence, technology, innovation and trade.
  • A Joint Working Group on counter‑terrorism was agreed to be set up between the two countries.
  • A Letter of Intent (LoI) on defence will provide an institutional framework for cooperation in military matters, defence industrial and technology partnership.
  • The defence LoI builds on the India‑European Union (EU) Defence and Security Partnership signed on 27 January 2026.
  • The LoI on counter‑terrorism will advance cooperation and establish a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Austria’s tunnelling expertise in projects such as the Delhi Metro and the Atal Tunnel.
  • Modi mentioned collaboration in defence, semiconductors, quantum technology and biotechnology.
World Trade Organization (WTO) Members Negotiate Extension of E-commerce Tariff Moratorium in Cameroon (End of March) ▼
  • The World Trade Organization (WTO) is holding a ministerial meeting in Yaounde, Cameroon, to discuss the extension of the global moratorium on e-commerce tariffs.
  • The moratorium, which prohibits customs duties on electronic transmissions such as digital downloads and streaming, is due to expire this month.
  • India signalled a potential shift in its position by suggesting a two-year prolongation of the e-commerce moratorium.
  • The United States (US) Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that Washington seeks a permanent extension of the ban rather than a temporary one.
  • The e-commerce moratorium has been maintained through temporary extensions for nearly 30 years to provide regulatory predictability for global businesses.
  • India reiterated its opposition to incorporating plurilateral agreements into the WTO rulebook, citing concerns over the erosion of the organisation's foundational principles.
  • A group of 66 WTO members agreed to implement a separate baseline on digital trade rules among consenting participants, bypassing traditional adoption hurdles.
  • The European Union (EU) Commissioner for Trade and US officials highlighted that bilateral and plurilateral deals are essential for reforming the WTO system.
World Trade Organization (WTO) to hold 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaoundé, Cameroon from March 26 to 29, 2026 (End of March) ▼
  • The World Trade Organization (WTO) will convene its 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) from March 26 to 29, 2026, in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
  • The Ministerial Conference (MC) is the highest decision-making body of the WTO and generally meets once every two years to decide on WTO law.
  • A total of 166 WTO member countries are expected to participate in the conference to deliberate on global trade rules.
  • Key agenda items include the potential incorporation of plurilateral agreements, such as the Investment Facilitation for Development and the Agreement on Electronic Commerce, into the WTO rulebook.
  • The conference will address the e-commerce moratorium, an agreement not to impose tariffs on electronic transmissions, which is scheduled to expire on March 31.
  • Members will discuss Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) for developing countries and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to provide special rights based on economic standing.
  • The United States (U.S.) has proposed prohibiting larger economies, including India, China, Brazil, and Indonesia, from accessing SDT special rights.
  • The conference aims to address the paralysis of the WTO dispute settlement system caused by the lack of appointments to the Appellate Body.
  • Since its establishment in 1995, the WTO has successfully created only two new major agreements: the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
ASSOCHAM and ICCC sign MoU to strengthen India-Canada business collaboration (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) and the Indo Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) signed an MoU on Monday during the India-Canada Business Roundtable held in New Delhi.
  • The MoU provides a framework for collaboration to strengthen trade, investment, and economic cooperation between members of both organisations.
  • Both organisations will facilitate exchange of information on trade policies, economic laws, and investment opportunities in India and Canada.
  • Joint initiatives under the MoU include trade missions, business delegations, exhibitions, seminars, conferences, and workshops.
  • Notable attendees included Anil K Agarwal (Past President & Chairman, ASSOCHAM International Council), Kam Rathee (Chair of the Advisory Board, ICCC), Prashant Srivastava (President, ICCC), Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra (Chairman, ASSOCHAM National Council on Education), Ed Jager (Trade Commissioner, High Commission of Canada to India), and Nina Tangri (Associate Minister of Small Business, Government of Ontario).

Union Cabinet approves Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMI pool) with ₹12,980 crore sovereign guarantee

[Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool]

Key Updates:

  • The Union Cabinet has approved the formation of the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMI pool) to provide insurance coverage for Indian-flagged or controlled vessels.
  • The Centre has provided a sovereign guarantee of ₹12,980 crore to facilitate insurance for maritime risks including hull, machinery, cargo, protection and indemnity (P&I), and war.
  • The BMI pool will have a combined underwriting capacity of approximately ₹950 crore, with policies issued by member insurers.
  • The pool includes participation from reinsurers such as General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re), Allianz-Jio Re, and Valueattics Re.
  • A dedicated Governing Body will be constituted to oversee the formation and functioning of the BMI pool.
  • The initiative aims to reduce the high dependence of Indian vessels on the International Group of Protection and Indemnity (IGP&I) Club for third-party liability insurance.
  • The pool ensures affordable insurance for vessels carrying cargo from any international origin to Indian ports and vice-versa, even in volatile maritime corridors.

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Bharat Container Shipping Line MoU signed with ₹15,000 crore joint funding for port capacity expansion (Start of February) ▼
  • The Union Government signed an MoU on 4 February 2026 to establish the Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW).
  • The MoU was signed among Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA), Chennai Port Authority, and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL).
  • A separate tripartite MoU was signed between VOCPA, Indian Railway Finance Corporation Limited (IRFC), and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) to finance the Outer Harbour Project at Tuticorin.
  • The agreements provide for joint funding of up to ₹15,000 crore for eligible projects to expand port capacity under the Sagarmala Programme and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
  • The financing framework will use a Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) focusing on debt funding for breakwater construction and allied onshore-offshore facilities.
  • The initiatives align with the Container Manufacturing Assistance Scheme (CMAS) announced in Union Budget 2026-27 and support the Maritime Amrit Kaal 2047 vision.
Inland Waterways Development Council approves ₹1,500 crore infrastructure push (End of January) ▼
  • The third meeting of the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) held in Kochi approved projects worth more than ₹1,500 crore for expanding India’s inland water transport network.
  • Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MOPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal chaired the meeting attended by state ministers from Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.
  • The council approved Ro-Ro and cargo terminals at Muktyala and Harishchandrapuram on the Krishna river in Andhra Pradesh to strengthen cargo movement.
  • Foundation stones were laid for river cruise jetties exceeding ₹150 crore in Kerala, Gujarat, Karnataka, Odisha and Telangana to expand cruise tourism circuits.
Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), and port authorities form Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL) with ₹15,000 crore joint funding. (Start of February) ▼
  • Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA), Chennai Port Authority, and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) signed an agreement on Tuesday to form Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL).
  • The agreement provides for joint funding of up to ₹15,000 crore for eligible projects aimed at port capacity expansion under the Sagarmala Programme and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
  • India will place orders for 15 domestically manufactured container vessels through BCSL during fiscal 2026-27 as part of a strategy to procure 51 vessels in the next five years under phase one.
  • The initiative is aligned with the Container Manufacturing Assistance Scheme (CMAS) announced in Union Budget 2026-27.
Union Cabinet clears ₹5,000 crore equity infusion into Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) to boost MSME credit. (End of January) ▼
  • The equity capital will be infused by the Department of Financial Services (DFS) in a phased manner over three years.
  • Of the total amount, ₹3,000 crore will be infused in FY26 at a book value of ₹568.65 per share as on March 31, 2025.
  • The remaining ₹2,000 crore will be infused in two equal tranches of ₹1,000 crore each in FY27 and FY28 at the book value as on March 31 of the respective preceding financial years.
  • The number of MSMEs receiving financial assistance is projected to rise from 76.26 lakh at the end of FY25 to about 1.02 crore by the end of FY28.
  • The additional MSMEs supported by SIDBI are estimated to generate employment for about 1.12 crore people by the end of FY28.
  • The equity infusion will help SIDBI maintain a Capital to Risk-weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) above 10.5 per cent even under high-stress scenarios and above 14.5 per cent under Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 norms over the next three years.

United States (US) and Philippines to develop 4,000-acre industrial hub under Pax Silica initiative

[United States, Philippines]

Key Updates:

  • The Philippines has joined the United States (US)-led Pax Silica initiative as its 13th member to secure technology supply chains for semiconductors and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • A 4,000-acre industrial hub will be developed in the Luzon Economic Corridor, covering Manila and surrounding industrial zones, under a trilateral framework involving the US, Japan, and the Philippines.
  • The Pax Silica programme includes international partners such as India, South Korea, Singapore, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
  • The industrial hub is designed to support the processing of critical resources including nickel, cobalt, and copper to strengthen the global minerals-to-chips ecosystem.
  • The European Union (EU) and the US are coordinating a framework for critical mineral supplies that includes minimum price guarantees for non-Chinese suppliers.
  • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has placed 27 out of 45 sub-Saharan African countries under financial programmes due to fiscal strain from regional conflicts and reduced foreign aid.

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PM Modi inaugurates Kaynes Technology OSAT facility in Gujarat, pushes full-stack Indian semiconductor ecosystem (Start of April) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility of Kaynes Technology in Sanand, Gujarat.
  • The Kaynes plant has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 3,300 crore in Sanand GIDC.
  • Intelligent Power Modules produced at the facility will be supplied to a California-based company and a large share of output is booked for export.
  • India’s current global semiconductor market stands at Rs 4.5 lakh crore with a target of reaching Rs 9 lakh crore by 2030.
  • India is a member of the US-led Pax Silica initiative and has launched the National Critical Minerals Mission.
  • The government has announced a Rs 1,500-crore scheme for mineral recycling and a Rare Earth Corridor connecting Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) Launches Bamboo Projects with Rs 82.5 Crore Outlay (End of January) ▼
  • The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) launched two major bamboo sector projects with a combined outlay of Rs 82.5 crore in Guwahati.
  • The initiatives are being implemented by the North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council (NECBDC) in collaboration with the North Eastern Council (NEC).
  • The first project, Strengthening Traditional Bamboo Artisan Clusters, aims to revitalise artisan clusters across all eight North Eastern States, benefiting over 4,500 artisans.
  • MDoNER signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Amazon India and Flipkart to provide digital market access and capacity building for artisan groups.
  • The second project, Promotion of Engineered Bamboo Products, focuses on industrial-scale manufacturing in Karbi Anglong (Assam) and Mokokchung (Nagaland).
  • The second initiative includes the development of 1,000 hectares of certified bamboo plantations and the training of 1,000 youth and artisans in advanced processing.
  • An MoU was signed with All Time Plastics (ATP) Ltd. to support product development, industrial applications, and sales promotion for engineered bamboo products.
  • The projects were inaugurated by Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, the Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region.
United States Department of State launches $200 million Edge AI Package for Indo-Pacific (End of February) ▼
  • The United States Department of State (US State Department) announced the Edge AI Package on 19 February 2026.
  • The programme offers up to $200 million in competitive funding to support secure and affordable smartphones across the Indo-Pacific region.
  • It is framed within the broader Pax Silica strategy launched in December 2025 to secure global AI and semiconductor supply chains.
  • Pax Silica reportedly includes the United States, Japan and South Korea, with India set to join on 20 February 2026.
  • Proposals are invited from Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for distributing low-cost, AI-ready smartphones in designated Indo-Pacific countries.
  • Interested parties must email EdgeAI@state.gov to request technical requirements and the submission window remains open for 90 days.
India formally joins United States-led Pax Silica Declaration during India AI Impact Summit 2026 (End of February) ▼
  • India signed the Pax Silica Declaration on the sidelines of the India AI Impact Summit 2026.
  • Pax Silica is the United States Department of State’s flagship framework for building a trusted technology and industrial partner network.
  • Signatories to the Pax Silica Declaration include Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Singapore, the UAE and the UK.
  • Non-signatory participants include Canada, the Netherlands, the European Union (EU), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and Taiwan.
  • US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described India’s entry as a pivotal moment in the evolving global technology order.
  • US Under Secretary of State Jacob Helberg stated the initiative rejects weaponised dependency and aims to secure the full technology stack from critical minerals to AI deployment.
  • The declaration aligns with the India–United States COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership and Accelerated Commerce and Technology) framework.
  • Both countries pledged to promote pro-innovation regulation, strengthen the physical AI stack and drive free enterprise under the Pax Silica framework.

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) Extended with Revised Outlay of ₹83,977 Crore

Key Updates:

  • 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.

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Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana crosses ₹40 lakh crore in collateral-free loans in 11 years (Start of April) ▼
  • Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) completed 11 years on 8 April 2026.
  • Over 58 crore collateral-free loans worth more than ₹40 lakh crore have been disbursed since 2015.
  • PMMY provides loans up to ₹20 lakh for non-corporate, non-farm income-generating activities.
  • Loans are classified as Shishu (up to ₹50,000), Kishor (₹50,000–₹5 lakh), Tarun (₹5–10 lakh), and Tarun Plus (₹10–20 lakh).
  • Two out of every three Mudra loans are sanctioned to women beneficiaries.
  • The scheme covers manufacturing, trading, services, and allied agriculture activities like dairy, poultry, and beekeeping.
Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Yojana: Rs 55 per month can secure Rs 3,000 pension (End of March) ▼
  • Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Yojana is a voluntary, contributory pension programme for unorganised sector workers aged 18-40 years with monthly income below Rs 15,000.
  • Subscribers contribute monthly amounts ranging from Rs 55 (entry at 18 years) to Rs 200 (entry at 40 years) until age 60 to receive a minimum monthly pension of Rs 3,000.
  • The government matches the subscriber’s monthly contribution and provides a family pension equal to half of the pension to the spouse after the subscriber’s death.
  • Workers covered under National Pension Scheme (NPS), Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) scheme, Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) scheme, or income-tax payees are not eligible.
  • Enrolment is facilitated through Common Service Centres (CSCs) across India using Aadhaar and savings bank account details.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana offers up to Rs 72 lakh on maturity for girl child (End of January) ▼
  • Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) was introduced on 22 January 2015 under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign.
  • SSY is a government-backed small savings scheme aimed at securing the financial future of the girl child.
  • The current interest rate under SSY is 8.2% compounded annually.
  • Interest is calculated every month and added to the principal at the end of each financial year.
  • Deposits qualify for deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, and interest earned is tax-free.
  • Minimum annual deposit is Rs 250 and maximum is Rs 1.50 lakh, either lump sum or in multiple instalments.
  • Deposits can be made till completion of 15 years from account opening, and the account matures after 21 years.
  • Investing Rs 1.50 lakh annually for 15 years yields a maturity value of approximately Rs 71.83 lakh at 8.2% interest.
  • Early closure is allowed only under specific conditions such as marriage after age 18 or death of the account holder.
  • Up to 50% of the balance can be withdrawn for the girl’s higher education once she turns 18 or passes class 10.
Atal Pension Yojana extension ensures monthly pension for informal sector (End of January) ▼
  • The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) till 2030-31.
  • The scheme provides a guaranteed monthly pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 from age 60 based on contributions.
  • Government funding continues for outreach, development work and gap funding to keep the scheme financially viable.
  • As of January 19, 2026, more than 8.66 crore people have enrolled under APY.

Resilience and Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation (RELIEF) Scheme Expanded to Include Egypt and Jordan

[Egypt, Jordan]

Key Updates:

  • The Government of India expanded the list of eligible destinations under the Resilience and Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation (RELIEF) scheme to support exporters during the West Asia crisis.
  • Egypt and Jordan have been added to the list of eligible countries for shipments meant for delivery or transhipment under the RELIEF framework.
  • The Ministry of Commerce launched the scheme on 19 March with a total budget outlay of ₹497 crore.
  • The RELIEF scheme is designed to assist Indian exporters facing logistics disruptions and export challenges due to regional conflicts.

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India delivers humanitarian aid to flood and earthquake-hit Afghanistan (Start of April) ▼
  • India delivered humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) materials to Afghanistan including kitchen sets, hygiene kits, plastic sheets, tarpaulins, and sleeping bags.
  • The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the aid through MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X.
  • Afghanistan’s National Disaster Management Authority reported 35 deaths and 52 injuries across 25 provinces due to heavy rains, floods, and a 5.8-magnitude earthquake.
  • The earthquake epicentre was in Badakhshan province at 186 km depth, striking at 8:42 pm local time.
  • Floods destroyed 131 houses and partially damaged 650 others, while over 3,000 jeribs of agricultural land were affected.
  • US Geological Survey (USGS) data show Afghanistan averages around 560 earthquake-related fatalities annually.
Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation (RELIEF) Scheme Launched with ₹497 Crore Outlay (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Government of India introduced the Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation (RELIEF) scheme with a total budget outlay of ₹497 crore.
  • The Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) will implement the scheme to support exporters affected by disruptions from the West Asia conflict.
  • The RELIEF scheme covers export consignments to approximately 17 countries where global reinsurers have reduced coverage, including routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The scheme provides enhanced insurance coverage of up to 100% for losses in eligible cases, compared to the standard 70-80% risk cover currently provided by the ECGC.
  • The package includes automatic extensions of export obligations and logistical support to assist smaller exporters facing high freight rates and limited working capital.
  • The intervention applies to both shipments already dispatched during the disruption window and upcoming exports.
United Arab Emirates and United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) sign US$20 million agreement for Sudan (Start of February) ▼
  • The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Aid Agency signed a US$20 million cooperation agreement with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to provide urgent food assistance to Sudan.
  • The grant is directed towards emergency response efforts for conflict-affected communities and displaced populations within Sudan and neighbouring host countries, including Chad, South Sudan, Uganda, and Ethiopia.
  • The agreement was signed by Rashid Salem Al Shamsi, Executive Director of Logistics Support at the UAE Aid Agency, and Bashar Al Hammami, Head of the WFP Partnership Office in the UAE.
  • The UAE provided a total of US$4.24 billion in assistance to Sudan between 2015 and 2025.
  • Between 2023 and 2025, following the outbreak of the civil war, the UAE delivered US$784 million in humanitarian aid to the region.
Export Promotion Mission (EPM) ₹25,060-crore seven-point plan to boost exports (End of February) ▼
  • Export Promotion Mission (EPM) launched by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal with ₹25,060-crore outlay over six years.
  • Live Events Direct E-Commerce Credit Facility offers up to ₹50-lakh credit with 90% guarantee for digital exporters.
  • Overseas Inventory Credit Facility provides up to ₹5-crore credit, 75% guarantee and 2.75% interest subvention capped at ₹15-lakh per year.
  • Interest subvention of 2.75% on export factoring through RBI- or IFSCA-recognised entities, capped at ₹50-lakh per MSME annually.
  • Trade Regulations, Accreditation and Compliance Enablement (TRACE) reimburses 60% of certification costs under Positive List and 75% under Priority Positive List with annual ceiling of ₹25-lakh per entity.
  • Facilitating Logistics, Overseas Warehousing and Fulfilment (FLOW) gives up to 30% support for approved overseas warehousing costs over three years.
  • Logistics Interventions for Freight and Transport (LIFT) reimburses up to 30% of eligible freight expenses, capped at ₹20-lakh per year for exporters in northeastern and hilly regions.
  • INSIGHT programme covers 50% of project costs for trade intelligence, up to 100% for government or Indian mission proposals.

Third Edition of AICTE-VAANI Scheme Launched with ₹4 Crore Annual Outlay

[All India Council for Technical Education]

Key Updates:

  • The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) launched the third edition of the AICTE-VAANI (Vibrant Advocacy for Advancement and Nurturing of Indian Languages) scheme.
  • The scheme provides an annual financial assistance of ₹4 crore to support 200 conferences, seminars, and workshops, with each selected institution receiving ₹2 lakh.
  • Events under the AICTE-VAANI will be conducted over two to three days in 22 regional languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, and Urdu.
  • The initiative covers 16 thrust areas in emerging domains such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science, Quantum Technology, Hydrogen Energy, Cybersecurity, Space and Defence, and Agrotech.
  • Applications from AICTE-approved institutions are invited through the AICTE-ATAL portal from 18 April to 17 May 2026.
  • The AICTE-VAANI aims to facilitate the publication of research papers in Indian languages and strengthen collaboration between academia and industry.

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Delhi replaces Ladli scheme with Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana, promises ₹1 lakh support for girls’ education (Mid of February) ▼
  • Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana effective from April 1, replacing the 2008 Ladli Yojana.
  • The scheme will deposit ₹56,000 in stages during a girl’s academic journey, projected to grow to ₹1 lakh with interest.
  • Deposits are ₹11,000 at birth, ₹5,000 on entry to Classes 1, 6, 9, 10 and 12, and ₹20,000 after completing graduation or diploma.
  • Eligibility requires the girl to be born in Delhi, family residence in Delhi for at least three years, annual family income not exceeding ₹1 lakh, and a maximum of two daughters per family.
  • The final payout is available when the girl turns 21 or completes graduation or diploma, whichever is earlier, even if studied outside Delhi.
  • The Ladli Yojana is being discontinued and the government is clearing pending payments under the earlier scheme.
Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana replaces Ladli Yojana with ₹1 lakh support for girls’ education (Mid of February) ▼
  • Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana effective from 1 April 2026, replacing the 2008 Ladli Yojana.
  • The scheme deposits ₹56,000 in stages and with interest the corpus is projected to reach ₹1 lakh when the girl turns 21 or completes graduation/diploma, whichever is earlier.
  • Instalments: ₹11,000 at birth, ₹5,000 on admission to Classes 1, 6, 9, 10 and 12, and ₹20,000 after completing graduation or diploma.
  • Eligibility: girl must be born in Delhi, family must have resided in Delhi for at least three years, annual family income must not exceed ₹1 lakh, and only two daughters per family can receive benefits.
  • Beneficiaries pursuing graduation or diploma outside Delhi remain eligible for the final payout.
  • Pending Ladli Yojana dues are being cleared through a government campaign to identify unclaimed accounts.
SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL) to deploy ₹1,005 crore Antariksh Venture Capital Fund for Indian space startups from FY2027 (Start of April) ▼
  • The Antariksh Venture Capital Fund, managed by SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL), will begin investing in Indian space startups from the first quarter of FY2027.
  • The fund has a committed corpus of ₹1,005 crore aimed at boosting private sector innovation in India’s space economy.
  • SVCL received Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) registration for the fund on 31 October 2025.
  • The fund completed its initial closing on 10 November 2025 after appointing a custodian and registering with depositories for issuing alternative investment fund units.
  • Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that the first round of funding approvals is expected soon.
Atal Vichal Agragami Assam scheme announces Rs 25,000 monthly financial assistance for research scholars (End of January) ▼
  • Under the 'Atal Vichal Agragami Assam scheme', the state government will provide monthly financial assistance of Rs 25,000 to research scholars.
  • Divyang research scholars will receive enhanced support of Rs 40,000 per month.
  • The scheme is scheduled to be formally launched on February 11, 2026.

India's 100 GW Nuclear Power Roadmap targets 100 GW capacity by 2047

Key Updates:

  • India has set a target to scale up its nuclear power capacity from the current 8.8 gigawatt (GW) to 100 GW by 2047.
  • Central Electricity Authority (CEA) Chairperson Ghanshyam Prasad announced the roadmap during an inaugural session held in New Delhi.
  • The roadmap identifies necessary legislative changes, including the Shanti Act which has already been enacted to facilitate the expansion.
  • The government aims to increase the number of players in the nuclear sector from a single company to approximately 10-12 companies.
  • The strategy focuses on standardising processes and shortening procedures to reduce tariffs and ensure fuel security.
  • The planned capacity addition will primarily come from new nuclear plants, incorporating emerging technologies such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
  • State governments are being encouraged to identify and provide land for the development of upcoming nuclear power projects.

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International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) ranks India third-largest renewable energy market in 2025 (Start of April) ▼
  • India added 45 GW of renewable capacity in 2025, raising total installed renewable energy capacity to 250.5 GW from 175.9 GW in 2023.
  • Solar capacity additions in India reached 37 GW in 2025, making it the second-highest contributor globally after China.
  • India’s wind energy capacity increased by 6.3 GW in 2025, marking its highest annual increase.
  • Hydropower installed capacity in India grew from 52 GW in 2024 to 56 GW in 2025, while pumped hydro rose from 4.7 GW to 7.2 GW.
  • Globally, renewable share of total installed power capacity rose to 49.4 per cent in 2025 from 46.3 per cent in 2024.
Energy Statistics India 2026 released by National Statistics Office (NSO) (Start of April) ▼
  • The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, released the 33rd edition of 'Energy Statistics India 2026' on 30 March 2026.
  • The publication integrates data on reserve, capacity, production, consumption, and import/export of all energy commodities including Coal, Lignite, Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Renewable Energy.
  • New additions include credit flow to domestic energy sectors, world energy statistics, consumption of domestic coal through e-auction, imported non-coking coal, sub-sectoral electricity consumption under industry from the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), industry-wise HSD distribution through retail/reseller, and international aviation and marine bunker data for the first time.
  • Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) for FY 2024-25 grew by 2.95% to 9,32,816 KToe.
  • India’s renewable energy potential reached 47,04,043 Megawatt as on 31 March 2025, with solar energy at 33,43,378 Megawatt (71% share), wind at 11,63,856 Megawatt, and large hydro at 1,33,410 Megawatt.
  • Rajasthan (23.70%), Maharashtra (14.26%), Gujarat (9.10%), Andhra Pradesh (9.1%), Karnataka (8.59%), and Madhya Pradesh (8.09%) together account for over 70% of the total renewable energy potential.
  • Installed renewable electricity capacity rose from 90,134 Megawatt on 31 March 2016 to 2,29,346 Megawatt on 31 March 2025, recording a CAGR of 10.93%.
  • Gross electricity generation from renewables increased from 1,89,314 GWh in FY 2015-16 to 4,16,823 GWh in FY 2024-25, a CAGR of 9.17%.
  • Per-capita energy consumption grew from 15,296 Mega Joule/person in FY 2015-16 to 18,096 Mega Joule/person in FY 2024-25, a CAGR of 1.89%.
  • Transmission and distribution losses reduced from about 22% in FY 2015-16 to about 17% in FY 2024-25.
  • Coal (including lignite) remained the dominant energy source, with supply rising from 3,87,761 Ktoe in FY 2015-16 to 5,52,315 Ktoe in FY 2024-25.
  • Total Final Consumption (TFC) of energy increased by 30.41% from 4,69,212 Ktoe in FY 2015-16 to 6,08,578 Ktoe in FY 2024-25.
  • Credit flow to the energy sector expanded over six-fold from ₹1,688 crore in 2021 to ₹10,325 crore in 2025.
India adds record 52.5 GW power capacity in first 10 months of FY26 (Mid of February) ▼
  • India added 52,537 MW (52.5 GW) of power generation capacity from all sources in April 2025–January 2026, raising total installed capacity to 520.6 GW as of January 2026.
  • Over 75% of the new capacity came from renewable energy sources, while the remainder was from thermal sources.
  • Renewable capacity additions comprised 39.7 GW, including 35 GW of solar and 4.6 GW of wind power.
  • Large hydro projects contributed 3.4 GW, thermal sources 8.8 GW, and nuclear 700 MW during FY 2025-26.
  • Fossil fuel-based capacity totals 248.5 GW and non-fossil fuel capacity stands at 272 GW.
  • Projects under construction include 158 GW of renewable, 39.6 GW of thermal, 13 GW of hydro-electric, and 6.6 GW of nuclear capacity.
  • Contracts for 22.9 GW of coal- and lignite-based projects have been awarded, with another 24 GW in planning stages; 48.8 GW of renewable, 4.3 GW of hydro-electric, and 7 GW of nuclear projects are also under planning.
Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) launches India Grids of the Future Accelerator with $25 million funding (End of February) ▼
  • The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) launched the India Grids of the Future Accelerator at Mumbai Climate Week 2026 to modernise power distribution and integrate renewable energy.
  • The initiative is supported by the All India DISCOM Association (AIDA), International Solar Alliance (ISA), and designated Champion Utilities.
  • GEAPP will deploy up to $25 million by 2028, aiming to unlock a total of $100 million by 2030 to support the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision of the Government of India.
  • Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with AIDA and distribution companies (DISCOMs) in Delhi and Rajasthan as the first cohort of Champion Utilities.
  • The accelerator aims to support 15 or more utilities and impact nearly 300 million people through its D4 framework of Digitalisation, Distributed energy resources, Democratisation, and Development.
  • The third edition of the Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge (ENTICE 3.0) was launched to focus on energy storage and grid digitalisation.
  • GEAPP was founded in 2021 by The Rockefeller Foundation, IKEA Foundation, and Bezos Earth Fund to end energy poverty and accelerate green economic opportunity.

Meghalaya Official Languages Ordinance, 2026 Approves Khasi and Garo as Official State Languages

[Meghalaya]

Key Updates:

  • The Meghalaya Cabinet approved the Meghalaya Official Languages Ordinance, 2026, to designate Khasi and Garo as official languages of the state alongside English.
  • The ordinance will repeal the Meghalaya State Language Act, 2005.
  • The policy enables the use of Khasi and Garo in government communications and various examinations.
  • Amendments will be made to the Meghalaya State Legislature (Continuance of English Language) Act, 1980, to allow legislators to debate in Khasi and Garo during assembly sessions.
  • The move is intended to strengthen the case for the inclusion of these indigenous languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
  • Meghalaya Chief Minister (CM) Conrad Sangma stated that English will continue to function as a common thread in communications.

Similar Coverage

Mizoram Assembly resolution seeks inclusion of Mizo language in 8th Schedule of Constitution (Mid of March) ▼
  • The Mizoram Assembly will deliberate an official resolution on Monday to include the Mizo language in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution.
  • School Education Minister Vanlalthlana will move the resolution after the question hour.
  • Mizo is the official language of Mizoram since 1974 and serves as the lingua franca of various Mizo tribes.
  • Chief Minister Lalduhoma held consultations in January with the Eighth Schedule Study Group of the Mizo Language Development Board (MLDB).
  • The study group reported overwhelming consensus among organisations and ethnic Mizo communities for inclusion of Mizo in the 8th Schedule.
  • A previous proposal for inclusion was submitted to the Centre but was not vigorously pursued.
Sindhi Bhasha Diwas observed on 10 April 2026 (Mid of April) ▼
  • Sindhi Bhasha Diwas is observed annually on 10 April.
  • Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, the Vice-President of India, released the updated version of the Constitution of India in the Sindhi language on 10 April 2026.
  • The updated Constitution was released in two formats: the first edition in Devanagari script and the second edition in Persian script.
  • The Legislative Department of the Ministry of Law and Justice prepared the updated versions through the Regional Languages Officers in the Official Languages Wing.
  • Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice, highlighted the inclusion of the Sindhi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
  • Former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee was recognised for his pioneering efforts in including the Sindhi language in the Eighth Schedule.
  • The event was attended by Shri Vasudev Devnani, the Speaker of the Rajasthan Assembly, and Shri Shankar Lalwani, Member of Parliament (MP).
  • Dr. Rajiv Mani serves as the Secretary of the Legislative Department under the Ministry of Law and Justice.
Maharashtra makes Marathi compulsory for taxi/auto driver licences (Mid of April) ▼
  • Maharashtra government will enforce Marathi language proficiency for all licenced auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers from 1 May 2026.
  • Drivers unable to read, write or speak Marathi may face cancellation of permits under the statewide verification drive.
  • Verification will cover all 59 regional transport offices (RTO) and deputy RTOs through tests and on-ground inspections.
  • Rule 24 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules 1989 already mandates working knowledge of Marathi for public service vehicle licences.
Constitution of India released in Tamil and Gujarati on International Mother Language Day (End of February) ▼
  • Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan released updated versions of the Constitution of India in Tamil and Gujarati at Uprashtrapati Bhavan on International Mother Language Day.
  • The 8th Edition of the Legal Glossary (English–Hindi) was also released alongside the constitutional translations.
  • In the past decade, the Constitution was officially translated for the first time into Bodo, Dogri and Santhali.
  • Last year, the Constitution was released in Nepali for the Nepali-speaking population of India.
  • The Legal Glossary aims to make legal terminology accessible to lawmakers, students, judicial officers, researchers, translators and policymakers.

Punjab Government and IIT Ropar sign MoU for AI-based Crime Prevention System

Key Updates:

  • The Punjab Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar to develop a structured data system for crime prevention.
  • The partnership aims to strengthen the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in identifying and preventing crimes through advanced data analysis and voice recognition.
  • IIT Ropar will develop software featuring dashboard-based monitoring to support real-time tracking and intelligence-led policing.
  • The initiative enables the Punjab Police to integrate structured and unstructured data, including scanned PDFs and handwritten crime records, into a unified digital system.
  • The system is designed to provide one-click access to a comprehensive database of criminals to improve crime detection and public safety.

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FIU-IND and I4C sign MoU to combat cyber fraud and financial crimes (Mid of April) ▼
  • Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) and Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) signed a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance information sharing and coordination.
  • The MoU was signed by Shri Amit Mohan Govil, Director, FIU-IND, and Shri Rajesh Kumar, Chief Executive Officer, I4C.
  • The collaboration aims to develop operational information and support investigative agencies to prevent financial crimes, protect digital transactions and undertake asset recovery.
  • The MoU will enable both agencies to establish robust feedback mechanisms for enhancing fraud detection protocols at the national level.
  • FIU-IND is the central national agency responsible for receiving, processing, analysing, and disseminating information relating to suspect financial transactions and coordinating efforts against money laundering and financing of terrorism.
  • I4C is an attached office of MHA responsible for providing a framework and ecosystem for Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) for dealing with Cyber Crime in coordinated and comprehensive manner.
Sagarika Chakraborty and Prof. Dr. Harpreet Kaur Establish IIRIS Chair of Infosec and Forensic Society (End of February) ▼
  • Ms. Sagarika Chakraborty, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IIRIS, and Prof. Dr. Harpreet Kaur, Vice Chancellor of National Law University (NLU), Jodhpur, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the IIRIS Chair of Infosec and Forensic Society.
  • The IIRIS Chair is the first of its kind in India, aimed at creating a centre of excellence for research, innovation, and industry-academia collaboration in information security and forensic science.
  • The partnership includes the launch of a joint Certificate Programme on Cyber-Led Forensic Investigation and Diligence to build skills at the intersection of law, technology, and investigations.
  • The certificate programme is designed under the theme Bridging Legal Theory & Investigative Practice in the Digital Age to equip participants with competencies for professional practice.
  • IIRIS is a global risk, security, and intelligence firm with over a decade of operational experience in more than ten countries.
  • The collaboration focuses on skilling students at NLU Jodhpur in cyber-led forensic investigations to prepare them for future litigation and legal work.
  • The MoU was signed on February 24, 2026, in New Delhi, aligning with the university's focus on the interface between law and technology.
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.
RRU and SSB Academy sign MoU to enhance national security training (End of March) ▼
  • Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) Academy signed an MoU in New Delhi to enhance National Security Training and Accreditation.
  • RRU, an Institution of National Importance, will provide academic accreditation for training programmes conducted at the SSB Academy.
  • Both institutions will exchange faculty expertise, pedagogical tools, and specialised training facilities.
  • RRU will offer SSB personnel hands-on training through its laboratories and field-based workshops.
  • The collaboration aims to modernise SSB’s training curriculum with technology-driven solutions for border surveillance and internal security.

Dowry Prohibition Act: SC shields aggrieved dowry givers from prosecution

[Supreme Court]

Key Updates:

  • The Supreme Court (SC) clarified that dowry givers, including the bride and her family members, are shielded from prosecution if they are the aggrieved persons.
  • The SC bench, comprising Justices Sanjay Kumar and K Vinod Chandran, stated that Section 7(3) of the Dowry Prohibition Act protects aggrieved parties who confess to giving dowry while filing complaints of domestic violence or harassment.
  • The amendment to introduce Section 7(3) was based on a Joint Parliamentary Committee report which suggested that dowry givers should not be dealt with on equal footing as takers.
  • The committee recommended that parents who give dowry should be viewed as victims rather than criminals, as they are often compelled by societal and customary norms rather than free will.

Similar Coverage

Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill-2026 proposes life imprisonment for sacrilege (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Punjab Vidhan Sabha unanimously passed the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill-2026 to impose stringent penalties for acts of sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib.
  • The bill proposes imprisonment of seven to 20 years and fines ranging from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh for individuals found guilty of sacrilege.
  • For acts of sacrilege carried out as part of a criminal conspiracy to disrupt communal harmony, the punishment is fixed at 10 years to life imprisonment with fines up to ₹25 lakh.
  • The legislation mandates the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to maintain a central register of saroops with unique identification numbers in both physical and electronic formats.
  • Offences under this law are classified as cognisable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable, to be tried by a sessions court.
  • Investigations under the Act must be conducted by a police officer not below the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) or Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP).
  • Any individual who attempts to commit an offence under the Act faces imprisonment of three to five years along with a fine of up to ₹3 lakh.
Mission Shakti Scheme strengthens women safety via One Stop Centres, Women Help Desks, Helpline-181 (End of March) ▼
  • Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) runs Mission Shakti Scheme adopting holistic and victim-centric approach for safety, security and empowerment of women.
  • One Stop Centre Scheme operational since 2015 provides integrated services like medical aid, legal assistance, temporary shelter, police facilitation and psycho-social counselling.
  • 926 One Stop Centres are operational across the country and have assisted over 13.37 lakh women up to 31 December 2025.
  • 15,049 Women Help Desks set up in police stations of which 14,363 are headed by women police officers.
  • Women Helpline-181 and Emergency Response Support System (ERSS)-112 provide emergency and support services; Women Helpline handled over 2.88 crore calls and assisted over 99.09 lakh women.
  • Mission Shakti Portal launched on 22 January 2025 enhances accessibility of government services for women and builds capacity of functionaries under schemes and legislations.
  • SHe-Box Portal offers centralised platform to file and track complaints related to workplace sexual harassment under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act 2013.
Chhattisgarh Cabinet Approves Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Implementation and Property Fee Concession for Women (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Chhattisgarh government approved the proposal to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to ensure legal uniformity and empowerment of women.
  • A high-level committee headed by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai has been constituted to prepare the draft framework for the UCC.
  • The UCC seeks to replace religion-based personal laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and family matters with a simplified legal structure.
  • The state cabinet announced a 50 percent concession in property registration fees for assets registered in the name of women.
  • The property registration fee concession is estimated to result in a revenue impact of approximately ₹153 crore to the state exchequer.
  • Uttarakhand was the first state to implement the UCC in 2024-25, while Goa follows the Portuguese Civil Code of 1867.
  • The UCC committee will consult citizens, legal experts, and stakeholders before placing the draft bill before the state Assembly.
Supreme Court invokes Article 142 to grant divorce after wife reneges consent (Mid of April) ▼
  • Supreme Court of India invoked Article 142 to dissolve the marriage after the wife withdrew consent for mutual divorce.
  • The wife had received Rs 75 lakh as first instalment and Rs 14 lakh for car purchase under the settlement agreement.
  • The court quashed the domestic violence case filed by the wife against the husband and his family members.
  • The bench comprised Justices Rajesh Bindal and Vijay Bishnoi.
  • The husband was directed to pay the final instalment of Rs 70 lakh to the wife.
  • All civil and criminal cases lodged by the couple against each other were quashed by the court.

Australia and Japan sign $7 billion stealth warship deal on 18 April 2026

[Australia, Japan]

Key Updates:

  • Australia and Japan signed a $7 billion defence contract for the supply of advanced stealth warships to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
  • Japan will deliver the first three upgraded Mogami-class frigates starting from 2029, while eight additional vessels will be constructed in Australia.
  • Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) secured the contract to build the initial ships in Japan, winning over Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems.
  • The upgraded Mogami-class frigates will feature a range of 10,000 nautical miles and be equipped with a 32-cell vertical launch system.
  • The vessels are designed to carry surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles and will be capable of operating MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.
  • Australian construction of the frigates will take place at the Henderson Defence Precinct in Western Australia, creating approximately 10,000 skilled jobs.
  • The agreement includes provisions for training and operational coordination between the RAN and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).
  • Both nations are members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) grouping, which also includes India and the United States (US).

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Indian Navy receives three GRSE-built warships including frigate Dunagiri and ASW craft Agray (Start of April) ▼
  • Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) delivered three frontline platforms to the Indian Navy.
  • The delivered vessels include the guided missile frigate Dunagiri, the survey vessel Sanshodhak, and the anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft Agray.
  • Dunagiri is the second advanced guided missile frigate built by GRSE under Project 17A and measures 149 metres in length with a displacement of 6,670 tonnes.
  • Dunagiri is equipped with BrahMos anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles and an integrated combat management system for multi-dimensional operations.
  • Sanshodhak is the last of four large survey vessels built by GRSE and is equipped for coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys and data collection for defence applications.
  • Agray is one of eight anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft being built by GRSE and is armed with lightweight torpedoes and anti-submarine warfare rockets for coastal sub-surface surveillance and attack missions.
Indian Navy frigate INS Nilgiri joins Exercise Kakadu 2026 sea phase in Australia (End of March) ▼
  • INS Nilgiri is participating in the sea phase of Exercise Kakadu 2026 in Australia during its deployment to the Western Pacific.
  • Exercise Kakadu is a multilateral maritime exercise hosted by Australia that brings together navies from across the Indo-Pacific region.
  • The exercise aims at strengthening interoperability, cooperation and maritime understanding among participating navies.
  • The Indian Navy will commission its latest stealth frigate Taragiri (F41) on 3 April 2026.
  • Taragiri, built under Project 17A by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai, has over 75 per cent indigenous content.
  • The 6,670-tonne Taragiri is equipped with surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Indian Navy joins US-led Exercise Sea Dragon 2026 in Guam (Mid of March) ▼
  • Exercise Sea Dragon 2026, a US-led multinational anti-submarine warfare drill, is under way at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.
  • The two-week exercise involves P-8A Poseidon and P-8I aircraft tracking simulated and live submarine targets.
  • Indian Navy has deployed one Boeing P8I maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft to the exercise.
  • Participating forces include Indian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Royal New Zealand Air Force.
  • Royal Australian Air Force has committed a P-8A Poseidon aircraft and 50 aviators from the recently re-formed 12 Squadron.

India and China Hold First Bilateral SCO Consultations on 16-17 April

[China, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation]

Key Updates:

  • India and China conducted their first Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) bilateral consultations on 16-17 April following the resolution of the eastern Ladakh military standoff in 2024.
  • Both delegations met with the Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George, to review cooperation in security, trade, connectivity, and people-to-people ties.
  • The two sides discussed the implementation of decisions made by SCO leaders and the future course of the organisation.
  • China has pledged support for the ongoing BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) presidency held by India.
  • The Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, is expected to visit India for the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting scheduled for 14-15 May.
  • The President of China, Xi Jinping, is anticipated to travel to India in September for the BRICS summit.
  • India reiterated that the original objectives of the SCO are to combat terrorism, radicalisation, and extremism.
  • India emphasised that regional connectivity initiatives must uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity as enshrined in the SCO charter.

Similar Coverage

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 and South Korea conduct 6th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue in Seoul (Mid of February) ▼
  • The 6th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) between India and South Korea was held in Seoul.
  • The dialogue was co-chaired by P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and Park Yoon-joo, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Korea.
  • Both nations reviewed bilateral relations including security and defence cooperation, science and technology collaboration, and economic issues.
  • The two sides agreed to work towards enhancing their Special Strategic Partnership and reaffirmed commitments to global cooperation.
  • The engagement followed parliamentary talks between the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and South Korean legislators to reinforce strategic ties.
Chinese ambassador Xu Feihong announces India-China bilateral trade hit record USD 155.6 billion in 2025 (Start of February) ▼
  • India-China bilateral trade reached USD 155.6 billion in 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of over 12 per cent.
  • India’s exports to China grew by 9.7 per cent during the same period.
  • The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tianjin last August led to improved ties and increased people-to-people exchanges.
  • China supports India’s BRICS presidency and is ready to strengthen multilateral coordination with New Delhi for Global South development.
  • The military stand-off that began after the June 2020 Galwan Valley clashes effectively ended in October 2024.
India hosts first BRICS Sherpas’ meet of its chairship in New Delhi (Mid of February) ▼
  • The first meeting of BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas under India’s Chairship was held from 9-10 February 2026 in New Delhi.
  • Secretary (Economic Relations) Sudhakar Dalela, India’s BRICS Sherpa, chaired the meeting, supported by Joint Secretary (Multilateral Economic Relations) Shambhu L Hakki, India’s BRICS Sous Sherpa.
  • BRICS Sherpas and senior officials from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and UAE participated in the meeting.
  • India presented its 2026 Chairship priorities under the theme 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability'.
  • Ministries outlined proposed activities in health, agriculture, labour and employment, disaster risk reduction, environment, climate change, energy, innovation, ICT, security and counter-terrorism, economic and financial domains.
  • Presentations on people-centric initiatives included sports, youth connect, cultural engagements, BRICS Academic Forum, BRICS Think Tank Council, BRICS Civil Forum, BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women’s Business Alliance.
  • BRICS Members and Partner countries appreciated India’s theme and priorities and shared perspectives on advancing resilience, innovation, cooperation, sustainability and a people-centric approach.
  • Delegates visited the National Crafts Museum & Hastakala Academy and Akshardham Temple during the meeting.

India to Host Inaugural Central Armed Police Forces Leadership Conference in Delhi in May 2026

Key Updates:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the first-ever Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) leadership conference in Delhi in May.
  • The Intelligence Bureau (IB) is coordinating the planning and execution of the two-day conference under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
  • The event will be attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, chiefs of intelligence agencies, and senior CAPFs leadership.
  • India maintains five CAPFs: Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
  • The combined manpower of the five CAPFs is approximately 10 lakh personnel tasked with border guarding, protecting vital installations, and counter-insurgency operations.
  • The conference aims to provide a unified platform for the top leadership to discuss internal security threats and synchronise efforts with state police forces.
  • The meeting follows the recent passage of the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Act, 2026, which seeks to create a unified legal framework for service conditions.

Similar Coverage

Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Act, 2026 notified after President’s assent (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Act, 2026 was notified on 9 April 2026 after President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent.
  • The Act is an umbrella law regulating recruitment, deputation, promotion and other service conditions for officers of all five CAPFs: Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
  • It mandates that 50% of inspector general rank posts will be filled through deputation from the Indian Police Service (IPS).
  • A minimum of 67% of additional director general rank posts will be filled through IPS deputation.
  • Posts of special director general and director general will be filled through deputation only.
  • The legislation follows an October 2025 Supreme Court directive that IPS deputation up to Senior Administrative Grade (SAG) in CAPFs be progressively reduced within an outer limit of two years.
Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026 mandates IPS dominance in senior CAPF leadership (End of March) ▼
  • The Centre will introduce the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha on 23 March 2026.
  • The Bill replaces fragmented rules of CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB with a single unified administrative framework.
  • At least 50 per cent of Inspector General posts will be reserved for IPS officers on deputation.
  • A minimum 67 per cent of Additional Director General posts will be reserved for IPS officers on deputation.
  • The posts of Special Director General and Director General will be filled exclusively by IPS deputationists.
  • All current recruitment rules in the Second Schedule stay valid until amended, preventing administrative vacuum.
  • The Bill explicitly states it involves no expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India.
Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 supported by Ministry of Power and major PSUs (Mid of March) ▼
  • Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 is scheduled from 19-22 March 2026 at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi.
  • The event is held under the patronage of India’s Ministry of Power and supported by POWERGRID, NTPC, PFC, REC and NHPC.
  • FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) is the Association Partner for the summit.
  • The summit convenes global policymakers, CEOs, government leaders, electricity experts, investors, regulators, innovators, suppliers and solution providers.
  • It aims to advance progress across the electricity value chain from generation and transmission to distribution, storage and smart consumption.
Indian Army to host 1st International Military Adventure Challenge Cup 2026 in Eastern Himalayas (Mid of February) ▼
  • The Indian Army will host the inaugural International Military Adventure Challenge Cup (IMACC) 2026 from 18 to 23 February 2026 in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas.
  • Military teams from India and seven friendly nations—Bhutan, Brazil, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Saudi Arabia—will participate.
  • Indian contingents will include teams from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
  • The competition will test physical fitness, mental resilience, leadership, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure in mountainous terrain.
  • The event is conducted under the banner of the International Military Sports Council (CISM) whose motto is 'Friendship through Sport'.

Israel and Lebanon Implement 10-Day Ceasefire Amid Allegations of Violations on 17 April 2026

[Israel, Lebanon]

Key Updates:

  • The Lebanese army reported multiple ceasefire violations by Israel, including intermittent shelling in southern border villages.
  • The Lebanese armed group Hezbollah conducted 38 attacks on Israeli forces and 37 strikes on northern Israel in the 24 hours preceding the truce.
  • Hezbollah's operations targeted three military bases, 25 settlements, four military barracks, and five border posts.
  • Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations (UN), Danny Danon, stated that Israel would monitor the situation and react if threatened.
  • United States (US) President Donald Trump indicated plans to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to Washington for diplomatic talks.
  • Bahrain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the US-led diplomatic initiative and the role of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in de-escalating tensions.

Similar Coverage

Israel announces readiness for direct talks with Lebanon amid strikes (Mid of April) ▼
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on 9 April 2026 instructed his cabinet to start direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible.
  • Netanyahu stated the talks will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful Israel-Lebanon relations.
  • Israeli strikes across Lebanon on 8 April 2026 killed more than 300 people and wounded over 1,000, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry.
  • Lebanon’s cabinet ordered security forces to restrict weapons in Beirut to state institutions alone.
  • Hezbollah lawmaker Ali Fayyad rejected direct negotiations with Israel and demanded an Israeli troop withdrawal and ceasefire first.
  • Since 2 March 2026, Israeli attacks have killed at least 1,888 people and displaced over 1.2 million inside Lebanon, the United Nations reported.
  • US and Iranian delegations are scheduled to meet in Islamabad, Pakistan on 11 April 2026 to discuss ending the five-week US-Israel war on Iran.
Israel announces plan to occupy southern Lebanon up to Litani River as security buffer against Hezbollah (End of March) ▼
  • Israel’s defence minister Israel Katz stated Israel will occupy territory up to the Litani River in Lebanon to create a security buffer against Hezbollah attacks.
  • Israel ordered all residents south of Lebanon’s Litani River to leave the area on March 4.
  • The Litani River lies about 30 kilometres north of Israel’s border and covers around eight per cent of Lebanese territory.
  • Israel has destroyed five bridges on the Litani that were used by Hezbollah to move terrorists and weapons.
  • Israeli ground troops have set up new fortifications south of the Litani and destroyed homes in emptied villages.
  • Hezbollah called any Israeli occupation south of the Litani an existential threat to the Lebanese state.
  • UN Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 Lebanon war, required Hezbollah to disarm and withdraw north of the Litani and Israel to exit Lebanon.
  • Israel retained troops on five hilltops in southern Lebanon after the 2024 ceasefire and attacks continued sporadically.
  • Former Indian Ambassador to Lebanon Sanjiv Arora urged India to send humanitarian aid and for the UN to hold an urgent session on Lebanon.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) reports Israel's unlawful use of white phosphorus in southern Lebanon (Mid of March) ▼
  • Human Rights Watch (HRW) confirmed authenticity of seven photos showing white phosphorus munitions fired over Yohmor in southern Lebanon on March 3.
  • The Israeli military's use of airburst white phosphorus over residential areas violated international humanitarian law.
  • Fires broke out in at least two homes in Yohmor due to the incendiary effects of white phosphorus.
  • HRW verified images posted by the Islamic Health Committee in Yohmor showing civil defence workers extinguishing fires on rooftops and in a car.
  • HRW urged the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany to suspend military sales to Israel and impose targeted sanctions on officials.
  • Israel had previously used white phosphorus between October 2023 and May 2024 across border villages in southern Lebanon.
  • At least 394 people have been killed and more than 1,000 injured in Lebanon in Israeli attacks.
  • More than half a million people have been registered as displaced in Lebanon as Israel issues forced displacement orders.
U.S.-Iran talks collapse in Pakistan with no deal as ceasefire clock ticks (Mid of April) ▼
  • Vice President JD Vance led the U.S. delegation for 21-hour talks with Iranian officials in Islamabad, Pakistan.
  • The two-week U.S.-Iran ceasefire remains intact but expires in eight days.
  • Key sticking points were Iran’s nuclear programme and control of the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iranian parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the U.S. failed to gain Tehran’s trust.
  • Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged both sides to uphold the ceasefire and continue dialogue.
  • HRANA reports almost 3,400 people, including over 1,600 civilians, killed in Iran since the war began.
  • President Donald Trump announced an immediate U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to counter Iranian mining.

White House Establishes National Initiative for American Space Nuclear Power

[United States]

Key Updates:

  • The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) has launched the National Initiative for American Space Nuclear Power to deploy reactors in orbit and on the moon.
  • The initiative sets a target to launch a lunar surface reactor by 2030 and begin orbital deployments as early as 2028.
  • The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is tasked with leading the development of mid-power space reactors for lunar power and nuclear electric propulsion.
  • The Department of War (DoW) is directed to deploy a mission-ready reactor for national security use cases by 2031.
  • The OSTP has assumed the role of central integrator for coordinating federal space policy following the revocation of the National Space Council.
  • The Department of Energy (DoE) will collaborate with NASA and DoW to leverage national laboratories and existing infrastructure for reactor development.
  • The initiative prioritises milestone-based contracting and competitive design efforts with multiple commercial vendors to reduce costs and technical risks.
  • The long-term objective includes scaling to higher-power systems in the 2030s to support advanced space exploration and commercial activity.

Similar Coverage

NTPC signs MoU with Électricité de France (EDF) to explore nuclear power projects in India (Mid of April) ▼
  • NTPC and Électricité de France (EDF) signed a non-binding MoU on 8 April 2026 to explore cooperation in developing nuclear power projects in India.
  • The agreement sets a framework for jointly assessing the feasibility of deploying EDF’s European Pressurised Reactor (EPR) technology in India.
  • The collaboration covers evaluation of technology suitability for Indian requirements, localisation opportunities, economic and tariff aspects, training programmes, site identification, and technical support.
  • NTPC has an installed capacity of more than 89 GW, with 32 GW under construction, and targets 149 GW total capacity by 2032 including 60 GW from renewable energy sources.
  • The MoU was signed by Arnada Prasad Samal, CGM (Nuclear Cell), NTPC, and Vakisasi Ramany, Senior Vice President, International Nuclear Development, EDF.
Adani Power forms nuclear energy unit as India opens sector to private players (Mid of February) ▼
  • Adani Power has formed a wholly-owned subsidiary to undertake nuclear power generation activities.
  • The move follows the Government of India allowing private sector participation in nuclear power generation.
  • The subsidiary will explore opportunities in nuclear energy as part of India’s clean energy transition.
US conducts first airlift of Valar Atomics' Ward microreactor from California to Utah (Mid of February) ▼
  • The US Departments of Energy and Defense airlifted a fuel-free Ward microreactor from March Air Force Base, California to Hill Air Force Base, Utah aboard a C-17 cargo aircraft.
  • The reactor, developed by California-based Valar Atomics, is slightly larger than a minivan and can generate up to 5 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 5,000 homes.
  • Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael Duffey accompanied the reactor on the flight.
  • The demonstration aims to validate rapid deployment of nuclear power for military and civilian use, with the reactor scheduled to begin operating at 100 kilowatts in July and peak at 250 kilowatts this year.
  • Valar Atomics plans to start test power sales in 2027 and reach full commercial operations in 2028.
  • The Energy Department targets three microreactors to achieve criticality by July 4.
  • Fuel for the reactor will be transported from the Nevada National Security Site to the San Rafael facility.
  • Critics, including Edwin Lyman of the Union of Concerned Scientists, question the economic viability and radioactive waste management of microreactors.
RM Nachammai becomes first woman Chief Superintendent of functional Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) nuclear plant. (Start of March) ▼
  • RM Nachammai assumed charge as Chief Superintendent of Kaiga Generating Station Units 3 and 4 effective March 15.
  • She is the first woman to head operations of a functional NPCIL nuclear power plant.
  • Nachammai joined NPCIL in 1991 and has over 35 years of experience in nuclear power plant operations.
  • She received the Vikram Sarabhai Award for topping the second batch of NPCIL engineer trainees.
  • Nachammai was awarded the NPCIL Special Contribution Award in 2010, 2014, and 2017.
  • Kaiga Nuclear Power Station currently operates four 220 MWe Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors with a total installed capacity of 880 MW.
  • NPCIL employs nearly 10,000 people, of whom about 900 are women.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) selects SpaceX Falcon Heavy for ESA Mars Rover Mission

[National Aeronautics and Space Administration, SpaceX, European Space Agency]

Key Updates:

  • National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has selected the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket to launch the European Space Agency (ESA) Rosalind Franklin rover mission to Mars.
  • The launch is scheduled for late 2028 under the Rosalind Franklin Support and Augmentation (ROSA) project.
  • The launch contract is valued at $175.7 million, which includes the launch service and other mission-related costs.
  • NASA is providing braking engines, electronics, a mass spectrometer, and Radioisotope Heater Units (RHUs) that use the decay of plutonium to generate heat for the rover.
  • The mission was restructured after ESA ended cooperation with Russia, which was originally providing the Proton launch vehicle and landing stage.

Similar Coverage

SpaceX to Launch Falcon 9 with 25 Starlink Satellites from California (Start of February) ▼
  • SpaceX is scheduled to launch a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 25 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
  • According to Indian Standard Time (IST), the launch window is scheduled from 20:47 on February 2, 2026, to 00:47 on February 3, 2026.
  • The mission will utilise a first-stage booster that has already flown 30 times, marking its 31st flight as part of the company’s reusability programme.
  • Following stage separation, the first stage is planned to perform a controlled landing on the Pacific Ocean-based droneship named Of Course I Still Love You.
  • The Falcon 9 is a two-stage reusable rocket whose first stage is propelled by nine Merlin engines using liquid oxygen and rocket-grade paraffin as fuel.
Amit Kshatriya appointed as Associate Administrator of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (Mid of April) ▼
  • Amit Kshatriya became NASA’s Associate Administrator, the agency’s highest-ranking civil servant, in September 2025.
  • He serves as senior advisor to NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman and leads ten centre directors and mission directorate heads at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
  • Kshatriya previously held the role of Deputy Associate Administrator for the Moon-to-Mars Program at NASA.
  • He was awarded the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal for his work as lead flight director during the International Space Station’s 50th expedition.
  • He received the Silver Snoopy award for his performance as lead robotics officer during the Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Dragon demonstration mission.
Elon Musk unveils Terafab project to produce AI chips for Earth and space (End of March) ▼
  • Elon Musk announced the Terafab manufacturing facility near Austin, Texas to produce AI, robotics and data-centre chips.
  • Terafab targets one terawatt of computing power per year, equivalent to slightly less than total US power generation capacity.
  • Tesla and SpaceX will jointly run Terafab; Musk cited no initial investment figure, though earlier US media reports estimate $20-25 billion.
  • The facility will design, manufacture, test and refine chips on-site, aiming for 100-200 gigawatts on Earth and one terawatt in space.
  • Musk said global suppliers Samsung, TSMC and Micron cannot expand fast enough to meet Tesla and SpaceX demand.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Completes Artemis II Moon Mission (Mid of April) ▼
  • The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) successfully concluded the Artemis II mission with the Orion spacecraft splashing down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego.
  • The mission crew consisted of commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen.
  • Artemis II set a new record for the farthest distance humans have traveled from Earth, reaching a maximum distance of 252,756 miles during the lunar flyby.
  • The Orion capsule, named Integrity, traveled a total estimated distance of 694,481 miles over a mission duration of 9 days, 1 hour, and 31 minutes.
  • During atmospheric reentry, the spacecraft reached a maximum speed of 24,661.21 mph and its heat shield endured temperatures of approximately 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • A system of 11 parachutes was deployed to slow the capsule from 300 mph to a splashdown velocity of approximately 17-20 mph.
  • The United States Navy recovery ship USS John P. Murtha was utilised to recover the crew and the spacecraft from the Pacific Ocean.
  • The mission involved a lunar flyby where the spacecraft reached its closest approach of 4,067 miles above the surface of the moon.
  • The crew carried a plush mission mascot named Rise, designed by an eight-year-old, which served as the zero-gravity indicator for the mission.

Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) Election Results April 18, 2026

[Tripura]

Key Updates:

  • Tipra Motha Party won 24 out of 28 seats in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) local body elections.
  • The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured four seats in the council, including two unreserved seats.
  • Tipra Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma launched a new political party named One Northeast.
  • The One Northeast party includes Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and former Nagaland minister Mmhonlümo Kikon.
  • The TTAADC governs approximately 70 per cent of the territory in Tripura and influences 20 tribal-reserved seats in the State Assembly.
  • Security for the counting process involved 24 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and the Tripura State Rifles (TSR).
  • Village council elections for the TTAADC are scheduled to be held in July after a 10-year gap following a Supreme Court (SC) order.

Similar Coverage

Deen Dayal Upadhyay and Nanaji Deshmukh Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar 2025 conferred on three Tripura panchayats (Start of April) ▼
  • Sepahijala district of Tripura ranked best District Panchayat in India.
  • Kanchabari Gram Panchayat topped the Health-Friendly category.
  • Baikunthapur Gram Panchayat placed third in the Women-Friendly category.
  • Winners will receive financial assistance ranging from ₹50 lakh to ₹5 crore.
Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) 2.0: Tripura ranks first in grassroots governance (Start of February) ▼
  • Tripura has secured the top position in the national Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) 2.0 for its performance in local self-governance and village-level administration.
  • Jugal Kishore Nagar Village Committee in the Sepahijala district of Tripura ranked first nationwide with a score of 88.44 among nearly 2.5 lakh gram panchayats.
  • South Nalchar gram panchayat in Sepahijala district secured the third rank with a score of 88.14, while Chesrimai gram panchayat followed in fourth place with a score of 87.85.
  • For the financial year 2023-24, all 1,176 gram panchayats in Tripura achieved 100% data submission and verification across all administrative levels.
  • Ministry: Not specified in the article.
  • Budget Outlay: Not specified in the article.
  • Target Beneficiaries: Gram panchayats and village committees across India.
  • Launch Date: Not specified in the article.
International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) 2026 showcases Assembly Polls in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry (Mid of April) ▼
  • The Election Commission of India (ECI) organised the International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) 2026 during the Assembly elections in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry.
  • A total of 38 delegates representing 22 nations participated in the programme to witness the electoral process firsthand on 8 and 9 April 2026.
  • The delegates observed the systematic movement of polling parties and visited CCTV control rooms monitoring 100 per cent webcasting of polling stations.
  • The visit included the observation of mock polls and the inspection of inclusive facilities such as ramps, wheelchairs, and creches at polling stations.
  • Specialised polling stations managed entirely by women and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) were showcased to the international participants.
  • The IEVP is a flagship initiative designed to foster engagement between the ECI and international Election Management Bodies (EMBs).
Amrit Sarovar campaign creates 70,000 water bodies nationwide. (Start of April) ▼
  • The Amrit Sarovar campaign has led to the creation of 70,000 water bodies across the nation.
  • Nearly 5 million artificial water harvesting structures have been built under the eleven-year-old water conservation campaign.
  • Vangmun village in Tripura's Jampui Hills has installed rooftop rainwater harvesting systems in almost every house.
  • Over 1,200 farmers in Koriya district of Chhattisgarh have built small recharge ponds and soak pits in their fields.
  • 400 families in Mudhigunta village of Mancherial district, Telangana, constructed soak pits in their homes improving groundwater levels and reducing waterborne diseases.